On Friday, August 2nd, HAAM Pearl Society members attended a concert featuring DJ Raquiqui and Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears at Q2 Stadium’s Captain Morgan Club. The event was organized in collaboration with provider partner Sharpe Vision. A photo gallery from the evening is available on Facebook, showcasing photography by Jake Rabin and Frank McCamant.
Ted Burton from Central Health addressed attendees about the importance of Central Health’s Sendero Health Plans for HAAM musicians. "Covering the gap between ACA subsidies and the cost of Sendero’s Ideal Care plans represents a contribution of about $110 a month for each of the more than 1,100 musicians and their families who get health coverage thanks to HAAM and Central Health," he stated. Since 2005, this alliance has facilitated access to healthcare valued at over $191 million for more than 7,100 Central Texas musicians.
Dr. Nicholas Lancaster from Sharpe Vision also spoke at the event about their contributions to HAAM members. In 2020, Sharpe Vision committed to providing LASIK eye surgery to twenty-four HAAM members annually. "LASIK vision correction treatment is not typically covered by insurance and is therefore cost-prohibitive for our members," Dr. Lancaster noted. To date, Sharpe Vision has offered over $347,400 in treatment services to HAAM musicians, including over $46,000 in donated procedures in 2024 alone.
Sharpe Vision's support extends beyond medical services; they have also sponsored events like Charity Spike, raising significant funds for HAAM.
Additionally thanked were Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Brown Distributing, Still Austin Whiskey + Gin, Dulce Vida Tequila, Novo Fogo, Karbach Love Street, Music Water, and C.L. Butaud Wines for their support.
Support from Pearl Society Members last year enabled HAAM to serve over 3,000 musicians. Joining Pearl Society helps provide essential healthcare access for artists who contribute to making Central Texas a renowned live music destination.