Mar 8, 2008

4 ways to help boy paralyzed by stray bullet

MediaNews

Chris Rodriguez, a fifth-grader who was recently paralyzed by a stray bullet during a piano lesson, is expected to head home from Children's Hospital-Oakland this week.

Those who wish to help his family can reach out in the following ways:

_ A trust fund under the name of Christopher G. Rodriguez has been established at the Piedmont Avenue branch of Wells Fargo bank, 151 40th St., Oakland CA 94611.

_ The Oakland Youth Chorus is holding a benefit show at 7 p.m. on March 19 at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., Oakland. Tickets can be purchased online at www.oaklandyouthchorus.org or by calling the youth chorus at 510-287-9700.

_ Local flutist Carol Alban has organized a benefit concert March 24 at Yoshi's in Jack London Square. Admission is $25 for the 8 p.m. show and $18 for the 10 p.m. concert. Call 510-238-9200 or visit www.yoshis.com for ticket information.

_ A free community Easter egg hunt and motorcycle run to benefit Chris will be held from noon to 4 p.m. March 22 at Arroyo Viejo Park, 7701 Krause Ave., in Oakland. Bikers can call 510-706-1413 for an itinerary. Egg hunters - or those who wish to donate items - can contact City Council Member Desley Brooks' office at 510-238-7006.

_ For more information about Chris's progress and upcoming events, or to send him a message, visit his Web site at http://www.christopherrodriguez.blogspot.com.