“Bands for the Beach” Sandy Relief Fundraiser

The “Bands for the Beach” Sandy relief fundraiser took place on Friday, November 30 in the auditorium of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. According to organizer Linda Gallagher, over 700 people attended throughout the night.

“We just hope this money raised will do a little for these people who still need help,” Gallagher said, adding that the $40,000 garnered at the event is destined for three charities involved in Sandy relief: The Greybeards, Rockaway Wish, and The Breezy Point Relief Disaster Fund.

Sponsors came from among the Bay Ridge community, including St. Patrick’s parish, O’Sullivan’s Pub, Irish Haven, and Super Roofer.

Trying to help those in need further, Gallagher said the bands that performed were specifically chosen because Sandy had affected them in some way, whether their equipment was destroyed or their usual places of performance were closed down. Indiculture, Breezy Grass, the Dublin City Ramblers, the Narrow Backs, and the Von Shakes performed at the fundraiser.

Citing the large number of displaced Breezy Point residents living in Bay Ridge, Gallagher said she believed that Bay Ridge would continue to remember the great many still in need of help.

“A lot of people turned out,” she said, “and it was good all around. Neighbors who were affected saw each other, embraced and laughed and caught up.”

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