Encouraging 'word and song' inspires Hot Lake event

THE SONG PART of Hot Lake Springs' "Word and Song" event pairs vocalist Dorathy Jefferson and harpist and keyboard artist Donna Jo Smith. The duo will be performing selections from their recently-released CD, "There is Jesus." The event takes place at Hot Lake Springs, Oct. 6 at 10 a.m. (Submitted photo).

Hot Lake Springs opens its doors for another special Christian event — "Word and Song" takes place at 10 a.m. on Oct. 6.

This time the Christian concert and teaching will take place indoors in the main foyer. Although the event is free, a love offering will be taken.

Soloist Dorathy Jefferson and harpist and keyboard artist Donna Jo Smith will be performing selections from the duet's first CD, "There is Jesus."

The duo describe their music as "songs that will bless and encourage you in your everyday life." Both artists currently hail from Northeast Washington.

Jefferson has used her vocal gifts in a variety of ways, singing at conferences and concerts at Hot Springs, Portland, Spokane and Iowa. In her local area, she has sung for a large number of church-related occasions in many cities, as well as at community gatherings.

Jefferson's background also includes singing in small groups and in the acappela choir during college, touring America and Europe. She also was a part of the Portland Symphonic Choir, and the local Woodland Theatre Choir for several years.

Smith is a harpist and piano and keyboard artist, along with holding a full time managerial position at her local community college. She performs and entertains at various conferences, concerts, celebrations, arts and crafts shows, as well as community and church gatherings.

She performs as an accompanist for choirs and soloists in her local area. Smith has also two recorded CDs of harp music — Simple Gifts and Simple Gifts II.

In addition to the concert, Jerry Kinney and Chuck Smith from the Nazarene Church in Eagle, Idaho, will present "Victorious Living" — teaching designed to encourage and inspire.

Event coordinator Marcia Dashiell said although the teaching will be beneficial for everyone, the pair's refreshing and upbeat perspectives will be especially helpful for those bogged down with worry.

"Anxiety is such a drag on your spirit — it robs us of our joy. These guys are really going to bless people with what they have to share," Dashiell said.

"With the music and all, this is just going to be a great, fun event for the whole family."

Everyone is welcome to bring a sack lunch, relax and enjoy both the music and teaching.

For those interested, tours of the renovations taking place at Hot Lake Springs are available after the event for $9.