‘Hung’ up on fighting ALS

POTTSVILLE, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— A charity event to benefit ALS research is set to take place this weekend in Schuylkill County.

Stirring up buzz in the community, it’s also featuring a performance from a singer who went viral for his American Idol performance.

Steve Foltin, the owner of Foltin Music Center, knows a thing or two about the guitar. He says his father taught him the love of music.

“He had me starting with music since I was like born,” Foltin explained.

His father was diagnosed with ALS in 2003, tragically passing away ten years later.

“Your mind never goes from it, but your body kind of just shuts down. It’s a very sad disease,” Foltin told 28/22 News.

Now with a goal to raise money and awareness for ALS research, Foltin teamed up with David Strausser to hold a charity event in Pottsville with the help from his friend and former American Idol contestant William Hung, known for his performance of “She Bangs” by Ricky Martin.

“We’re thinking we’re going to get William Hung. He’ll come up and do ‘She Bangs’ and next thing you know, we’re selling 200 plus tickets for this event so it really just grew a whole life on its own,” said David Strausser, ERP Executive.

Taking place at the Crimson House on Center Street, owner John Challenger says the community is always there for support.

“In the town of Pottsville, every time we have an event everybody comes out. There’s so many events here with Yuengling celebrations,” Challenger said.

We got the chance to speak with William Hung before he flew out to Pennsylvania from LA. He says he’s never been to the area and is excited to raise money for research.

“I always like to contribute to a good cause because it means that my entertainment is not just for entertainment, but I’m helping more people,” added William Hung, singer/motivational speaker.

Saturday’s event runs from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. Two bands will also be performing Saturday night at the benefit.

100% of the proceeds raised will go toward the ALS Association.

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