A Heartfelt Cause: Supporting Jackson Teska & Family at The Family Hoedown 8

The Family Hoedown has always been about coming together in the spirit of music, love, and giving back. This year, our hearts and efforts are dedicated to supporting an extraordinary 10-year-old boy, Jackson Teska, and his family.

A Little History: How the Family Hoedown Began

The Family Hoedown, originally named the Huber Hoedown, was created as a tribute to a man who had done so much for local music and the beloved band, The Blind Owl Band. Christian Cardiello envisioned a music event to honor Scott Huber, who had dedicated himself to supporting musicians and fostering a strong, passionate music community. The first Hoedown was a surprise birthday party for Scott, held in the backyard of Sanford. That night, music filled the air, food was shared, and the celebration was full of joy—even if someone stepped on the cake.

The overwhelming love and appreciation for Scott led to a larger event at Eddie Ridge, setting the foundation for what the Hoedown would become. With encouragement from the community, Colleen was urged to grow this event even more, and so Huber Hoedown grew. However, as the event expanded, so did its purpose. After three years, it became clear that this wasn’t just about honoring one person—it was about family, community, and giving back. Thus, the Family Hoedown was born.

Today, the Hoedown is a family-focused event that combines incredible live music with a mission to help those in need. Over the years, the event has found its niche—changing lives by raising funds directly for individuals and families who need it most. Unlike other fundraisers, where money is filtered through larger organizations, after event expenses, every dollar raised at the Family Hoedown goes straight to the intended recipient.

Meet Jackson Teska

Jackson Teska is truly one of a kind. Born with a chromosome deletion so rare that he is the only recorded case in the world, Jackson faces significant medical challenges. He cannot walk, sit up, use his hands, or speak. He relies entirely on the devoted care of his mother, Marisa Teska, for every aspect of daily life, from feeding to bathing to medical care. Despite these challenges, Jackson radiates joy and an infectious love for life that inspires everyone around him.

A Warrior’s Spirit

Though Jackson has endured numerous medical procedures, including an eight-hour hip surgery in 2023, he continues to meet life with a bright smile. In 2025, he faces another major surgery to correct severe scoliosis, a testament to the resilience that defines him and his family. Through all of this, Jackson remains a happy and loving child, bringing light to those around him. He adores school, his eight cousins, and his two-year-old brother, Maverick, who has already learned to help care for him.

Jackson finds happiness in life’s little pleasures—being pushed fast in his wheelchair, feeling the cool embrace of a swimming pool, and bouncing on a trampoline with the help of a loved one. His laughter is contagious, and his strength is immeasurable.

The Teska Family: A Story of Love and Dedication

Jackson’s mother, Marisa, and father, Zachary, were both raised in Cato, NY, where they now raise their two boys. Zachary works full-time, leaving Marisa as Jackson’s primary caregiver, a full-time job in itself. Each day, she lifts Jackson in and out of his car seat, manually loads his 92-pound wheelchair into the back of their van, and repeats the process for every trip they make.

The Teskas need a wheelchair-accessible van to ease the physical toll on Marisa and improve Jackson’s quality of life. A van with a lift or ramp would allow them to travel more comfortably, giving Jackson the ability to stretch out and rest while avoiding long and painful transfers.

A Community's Nomination

Angie Allen, a prominent member of our G Lodge Community, a resident of the town of Cato and a special education aide at the local school, nominated Jackson to be this year’s Hoedown beneficiary. Angie has known the Teska family for over 30 years and has seen firsthand the love and dedication they pour into Jackson’s care. She remembers how Jack’s grandfather, Dan, was always the first to step up when someone needed help. Now, it’s time for the community to come together and support this incredible family.

The Heart Behind the Hoedown

For eight years, The Family Hoedown has stood as a beacon of generosity, raising funds for those in need. The event began with a simple but powerful idea: to give back. While it has taken time to find its niche, The Hoedown has now become a life-changing fundraiser, providing direct and meaningful support to those who need it most. Unlike other fundraising events, The Family Hoedown ensures that after the event expenses are paid for, every dollar raised goes directly to the chosen recipient, making an immediate and tangible impact.

The Hoedown has made a difference in the lives of many, including:

Christopher Baldowski, a quadriplegic in need of a new wheelchair, allowing him mobility and independence.
Eloise Sokolofsky, a young girl undergoing aggressive treatments for brain lesions, whose family was supported through medical expenses.
Dillon Kronert, a beloved music community member battling a painful degenerative disease, giving him some financial relief during tough times.
The Rochester Educational Fund, which helps provide school supplies and instruments for children in need, ensuring music and education remain accessible.
The Local Sound Collaborative, an organization supporting local musicians and artists, helping them sustain their creative passions.
Gordy & Friends, a group that provides aid to rescue animals in need of medical care and adoption support.

Each year, the Hoedown’s organizers carefully consider nominations and select recipients who will benefit most from the funds raised. The festival has grown into more than just a gathering—it’s a movement of generosity that directly changes lives.

2019 Family Hoedown Beneficiary Christopher Baldowski

How You Can Help

Supporting Jackson and his family through The Family Hoedown is simple:

Buy Tickets: Your ticket purchase directly contributes to fundraising efforts.
Make a Donation: If you can’t attend, consider donating via Venmo, PayPal, or check.
- Venmo: @Colleenbiele
- PayPal: Clbielemeier@gmail.com
- Checks made out to: Colleen Bielemeier
  - And shipped to: 10609 Lyman Rd. North Rose, NY 14516
Sponsor the Event: Local businesses and individuals can sponsor aspects of the festival to help offset costs, ensuring more funds go directly to the Teskas. Contact Colleen for more info, (315) 398-2134, texting preferred. Email secondarily preferred clbielemier@gmail.com
Donate Art, Homemade Goods or Other Items to the Silent Auction: Contact Adrienne Rose. Preferably by text to (585) 315-7334. Secondarily by email adilell8@gmail.com
BRING CASH! Bid on Silent Auction Items & Participate in the 50/50 Raffle: Every little bit helps!

The Family Hoedown takes place on June 6th, 7th, and 8th at The G Lodge. It’s a family-friendly festival filled with incredible live music, community spirit, and the kind of love that makes a real difference.

Learn more

A Message from the Teska Family

"The Teska family truly appreciates the constant love, prayers, and support that are always sent during Jack’s illnesses, surgeries, good days, and bad days. We are grateful to be a part of a small community that looks out for one another. Jackson’s journey isn’t always easy, but it’s the best journey to be a part of."

Join us in making a difference for Jackson. Come for the music, stay for the love, and leave knowing you've been part of something truly special.