Several local rock and metal bands recently
gathered at the Moose Lodge in Claremont, NH to play some high
energy music and help raise funds for a most worthy cause, the
fight to defeat ALS, or "Lou Gerhig's Disease." This
worth while event was a culmination of many people giving their
time and efforts in support of event organizers, Karin and
Christopher Bergmann of Bellows Falls. Christopher's band
Spectris was also one of the events' headliners. The
Bergmanns have created "Rock To Defeat ALS." which
will become an annual event, after hearing the tragic story of Dr.
Stephen Meersman of Claremont, who recently lost a two year battle
with the disease.
The fund raiser is endorsed by the ALS
Association of Northern New England and will not only benefit all
who are affected by the disease through research, but also a
college fund for Dr. Meersman three children. Hosted by
99Rock's Chris Garrett of Manchester, NH, joining Spectris were
several other local bands to provide the day's entertainment
including Dear Anyone, Gravity Road Band, 84 Sheepdog, Eden's
Lie and headliners Stonewall.
Also included were several raffle giveaways including studio time
at Exsubel Studio in Saxtons River, a propane grill from Cota &
Cota, two dinners at Margharita's in Lebanon, a gift basket
from Allen's Vending, a "bands package" of CDs and
t-shirts, a Curt Schilling autographed baseball donated by the ALS
Association of Northern New England and much more.
Having a high
school friend lose his battle to ALS some two years ago, this
benefit really hit home for this editor. I can't thank the
Bergmann's enough, and all the wonderful people and musicians
who gave their time, talents and efforts to support this important
cause. I look forward to uniting together with everyone again next
year to make this event an even bigger success than it was this
year. Great job!
Christopher, Karin and everyone who participated... YOU ALL ROCK!!
