Michaels returns for fair
Bret Michaels will pay homage to his Butler roots Wednesday by performing at the Big Butler Fair.
The Poison frontman and host of the former VH1 show “Rock of Love” was born in Butler and lived here as a young boy.
“I've played a lot of places around the area,” Michaels said Monday, noting that it's like a big family reunion whenever he plays in the Pittsburgh area. He moved to Mechanicsburg when he was 5 or 6, but often returned to Butler to visit relatives.
The Butler County Commissioners issued a proclamation declaring Wednesday Bret Michaels Day, and will present him with it before his 8 p.m. performance.
The proclamation notes that he was born March 15, 1963, and grew up in the Highfield neighborhood.
It also states that he is a singer, songwriter, actor, and television personality.
And the proclamation also says that he has done this “with many unimaginable, medical challenges such as recovery from a massive brain hemorrhage, as well as major heart surgery.”
“Therefore, the Board of Commissioners of Butler County hereby proclaims July 2nd, 2014 as Bret Michaels' Day in Butler County, Pennsylvania, and thanks Bret for giving back to not only Butler County but impacting lives worldwide in a positive way through his charitable work of the Life Rocks Foundation,” which helps causes such as childhood cancer, diabetes, military personnel and pet issues.
Michaels, who was diagnosed with Type I diabetes as a child, takes insulin five times a day. In addition, in recent years, he's recovered from a brain hemorrhage and surgery to repair a hole in his heart.
He said he brings as much passion to his performances as ever, and he plans to do so at Wednesday's show.
“In my life, I've learned, I assume nothing. I come to have a great time, and I want to bring the party. We have amazing friends and fans and family. I want them to know that we, Bret Michaels Band, will host a massive party. That's what it is,” he said.
“A big part of my shows is people getting there early, jamming music, having a great time, and for the Big Butler Fair, it's the same thing. Except I'm bringing lots of pyro. It's going to be all the Poison hits, mixed with Rock of Love and Celebrity Apprentice. And all the new records, and we mix it all together seamlessly. It's just one big, energy-filled fun party.”
His 9-year-old daughter, Jorja Bleu, who's been traveling with him, may also make an appearance on stage. Michaels' performance is free with the cost of admission at the fair.
