For the sixth year in a row, Auburn Records and WJCU 88.7 FM teamed up for a food drive for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Friends Of The Cleveland Kennel and Lake Humane Society. Held on Dec. 6 at the Beachland Ballroom & Tavern, the event produced a record amount of donations.
"We did it!" says event organizer Bill Peters in a press release. "We not only did it but we completely shattered our donation totals for the sixth year in a row. I was not sure if it would be possible after the high marks we set in 2013. The bar had been raised but the fans responded to our challenge."
Peters points to the numbers by adding that there was a 70% increase in food donations and a 49% increase in cash donations.
"Those are some absolutely amazing numbers," he says. "I can't thank the fans enough. These fans here in Cleveland are the absolute best! This is their day to shine. Be proud Cleveland metal community. The entire world is recognizing and honoring what you just did. People helping people (and animals too) — that's what it's all about! Working together we are making our community a better place to live by giving something back to those less fortunate this holiday season. The true meaning and spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Cleveland, Ohio USA! Thank you so much for supporting our food drive!”
A raffle alone generated over $2,500 in cash donations, and proceeds were divided equally between the three charity groups. Prizes were donated by The Exchange, Guitar Center, artist Derek Hess, rock photographers Anastasia Pantsios, Janet Macoska and Joe Kleon, Warner Music Group, Wacken Open Air festival, Roadrunner Records, Century Media, Mushroomhead, Cyclops Tattoo Studio, Ken Kitt, Fat Head's Brewery, Robinson Brewery, School Of Rock and In The Woods. In addition, metal journalists Iron Ingo Stührenberg and Mark Gromen donated CDs. The Cleveland Agora, a competing venue, donated $300 worth of concert tickets.
“The raffle prizes were absolutely incredible this year!", says Peters. "People were buying $100 worth of tickets at a time. Special thanks to all of our sponsors for donating these great prizes!"
Check out photos of the concert here.
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