By Bob Hicks

The Oregonian’s Kelly House reports on Oregon Live that Sunday’s two-show Japanese disaster benefit at the Aladdin Theatre has raised about $250,000 for Mercy Corps‘ relief efforts. Congratulations to organizer Stephen Marc Beaudoin, Aladdin general manager Tom Sessa, all of the performers, and the 1,300 people who bought tickets for the sold-out shows. Added to almost $17,000 raised in an earlier event sponsored by Portland Taiko and Portland State University’s Department of Music, that’s $267,000. And there’s been more from other corners. Plus, you can still contribute directly to Mercy Corps. Congratulations, Portland. Let’s keep it going.