According to a CNN report in June last year, suicide rates in the U.S. are at the highest level since World War II. On February 8th, a local concert is dedicated to the memories of every tragic loss by increasing suicide prevention, awareness and education. The GNL Rocks Music Benefit is being held to remember the son, brother, and friend, Gabriel Nicholas Lopez, who died of suicide on October 15, 2018.
On this episode, we’ll be talking to the organizer of this event and the mother of Gabriel, Angela Finn. All proceeds will benefit counseling and suicide education agencies in our area, including Kelly’s Grief Center. We’ll hear how Angela turned her grief into something positive.
At the event, you will hear Joe Culley play tabla drums; various soulful acoustic acts, including Nick Ashbaugh, Guy Pernetti and Jim Zeller; blues artist Ray Flanagan; reggae inspiration from David Smeltz; punk band Dump Cake; power pop band, Librarians With Hickeys; progressive fusion core sounds of Kent band Mount Ratz; fast and furious rock and roll band from Cleveland the Tufted Puffins; and Northcoast Americana band Hey Mavis.
During the episode, we preview two of the acts at the event. First, we’ve got exclusive access to Akron’s Librarians with Hickeys‘ (pictured above) new song called “That Time Is Now” that is planned for a spring release on Big Stir Records.
And we have a track from Cleveland punk rockers Tufted Puffins (pictured above) called “Good Times.”
Tickets available at gnlbenefit.eventbrite.com. We all need help in living our best lives and preventing suicide so that no friend or family endures life’s challenges alone. There is help and support. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the National Suicide Lifeline for help. The number is 1-800-273-8255.
One Response to “CoolCLE PODCAST #42: Kent Stage Suicide Benefit Concert”
Kimberly Lehman
This is powerful! Thank you for sharing!