Stanfield to perform annual concert Saturday

Tony Parra: PNT Staff Writer

Those who have watched her show have enjoyed it and are looking forward to her concert again this year on Saturday at the Portales High School Auditorium.

Jana Stanfield, a motivational speaker/singer, will be performing in the 4th annual Jana Stanfield Concert that will take place on Saturday with proceeds going to help pay for teens and children to go to the Panhandle Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer Camp. The summer camp, for youth age 6-21, is held at Ceta Canyon outside of Happy, Texas. It costs $600 per camper.

Stanfield, an Eastern New Mexico University and Clovis High School graduate, will be in Portales for a concert on Saturday at the Portales High School auditorium.

“It’s hard to put into words the effect she has on you,” Judy Hall, concert event coordinator said. “You get more than what’s expected from the concert. It’s interactive. She gets kids on stage and gets them involved.”

The Portales High School Chorale and the Farwell High School Band students will perform at the start of the program at 7 p.m.

Two of those kids who were on stage as part of the Portales chorale during last year’s concert and will be entertaining the crowd again this year are Lauren Main and Monica Corralez, Portales High School sophomores.

“She was so enthusiastic about everything,” Main said. “I’m looking forward to going back. I hope it’s the same atmosphere.”

Stanfield became a triple platinum recording artist and songwriter in 1991 when Reba McEntire recorded her song, “If I Had only Known.” In 2000, Stanfield has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry and she has appeared on the same stage with the Dixie Chicks, Lilly Tomlin and Kenny Loggins.

“Her songs are all pretty,” Corralez said. “It was really fun (last year). She had the crowd join in. She got everyone involved and was happy and excited. I think more people will show up this year.”

Franklin Smith, choir director, will again be directing the Portales choir this year. Main said the Portales choir members will sing one of Stanfield’s songs this year “If I Were Brave”.

Stanfield performs in fund-raising concerts and entertains annually on the Jerry Lewis Telethon.

“She is extremely involved with MDA,” Hall said. “It’s more than just a concert. It’s a chance to do something for somebody.”

For additional information on the concert, contact Judy Hall at 356-8323 or 760-1386. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available from Garden Source, Southwest Ink at 356-6836 and at the door.

For the past 10 years, Jana has made her living as a Keynote speaker at conferences and corporate events.

There will also be a raffle of a Clint Black autographed Signature Baby Taylor Guitar. The drawing will take place at the concert, but the winner doesn’t have to be present. The cost is $5 per ticket and six for $25.