By Mary Ortiz and Allison Rekuc
World AIDS Day is Dec. 1 and RVCC is doing its part. On Saturday, Dec. 2 an AIDS Benefit Concert will be held on campus, sponsored by club B.L.A.C.K.
The student club (Black, Latino, Asian, Caucasian Kollaboration) will donate profits from the concert to the Hyacinth charity organization for AIDS victims here in New Jersey.
President of club B.L.A.C.K., Danielle Hobbs, explained that a summer leadership program at Rutgers was an eye-opener to these concerns. “The leading cause of African American women’s death here in New Jersey is AIDS,” she said. After having met some of these AIDS victims, Danielle was determined to help.
The idea for a concert of local bands, many with members that attend RVCC, originated with Travis Collins, a paralegal major and member of the band Chikara. As stage manager and coordinator of the event, he has been learning all the challenges that come with putting on such an event. “My hairline has receded like 10 inches, because of this show,” he said.
Hobbs echoed his anxiety, saying ““The complications of putting this together? Where can I start?” But despite the stress in organizing the proper funds, band itinerary, and concessions for the night, the hard work and collaboration between Collins and club B.L.A.C.K. has brought together a fun, diverse talent of music and an exceptional charity benefit.
Five bands are lined up for the night, and two acoustic artists between sets. Student Ralph Colatrella will be the M.C. “We wanted to collect a diverse talent,” explains Collins, “there’s something here for everyone.” Headlining band Divinity Destroyed will be featured along with local bands Chikara, The Kisscut, Signature Escape, and Motel Creeps.
Collins added, “I wanted to do something fun for RV, that you didn’t have to be in a club to enjoy.”
Anyone is welcome, and for a $7 ticket purchase, you can support a worldwide charity cause, attend an exciting concert in the grand conference room at RV, and possibly win one of two raffles that will be held between band performances.
Over 42 million people are living with AIDS world-wide. Hobbs incites “We want everyone to have fun ... It’s a rock ‘n roll concert, but we don’t want to forget its purpose is to raise AIDS awareness.”
The door of the Grand Conference room will open at 5 p.m. and the show begins at 6 p.m.
If you would like to volunteer to help with the event, or for any additional information, contact Travis Collins (908) 218-8868.
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