‘Idol’ finalist to sing in teen’s memory

On Aug. 29, Culpeper teen Kelsey Orndorff was on her way to a Chris Sligh concert in Fredericksburg.

Kelsey, 17, never got to see the “American Idol” finalist perform. She died when her car crossed the center line and veered head-on into traffic.

In the wake of the tragedy, Sligh, a Christian singer, became aware of Orndorff’s story. On Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. in the Culpeper County High School auditorium, he will hold a benefit concert in her memory.

An “Idol” finalist on Season 6 in 2007, Sligh’s success on the show led him to a recording contract with Brash Music. His first album, “Running Back to You,” made its debut May 6.

Satellite 29, the band Kelsey co-founded with her brother Josh, will open for Sligh.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students; they go on sale Monday at various locations throughout Culpeper.

The ticket price is tax deductible, and checks should be made payable to Kelsey’s Missions.

Proceeds support Kelsey Kares — a ministry of Teens Opposing Poverty — and Kelsey’s Big Give, a local ministry to help those in need.

More information about these ministries will be available at the concert.

Amy Wagner covers church news for the Star Exponent. Have a story idea? E-mail her at .

If you go
What: Kelsey Orndorff benefit concert with Chris Sligh and Satellite 29

Where: Culpeper County High School auditorium

When: Nov. 22, 7 p.m.

Cost: Adults $15; students $10

Tickets: Available Monday at Smoothie King, Peterson’s Jewelers, Ledo Pizza, Spin Cycle, Culpeper United Methodist and Culpeper Baptist churches

For more info: Call Mountain View Community Church at 727-0297

Upcoming: Look for an interview with Chris Sligh, and learn more about the concert in next week’s Star-Exponent.

Online: ChrisSligh.com