Health & Fitness

Rock & Roll for Rescue Animals

Patch talks to Root Nine, which is participating in a big animal welfare event in October.

The second annual Rock & Roll for Rescue Animals is happening on Oct. 18, and you should go. 

As the Facebook event posting says, "the event to raise money in support of the Animal Rescue League of Boston. The Animal Rescue League is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing domesticated animals and wildlife from suffering, cruelty, abandonment and neglect."

The event, which is sponsored by the UNregular Boston radio show Citywide Blackout, includes a huge raffle, and live music by Alen of Dale, Root Nine and Tik Tok. 

"When we put on our first benefit show last year, we knew we wanted to help an organization that everyone would want to support," said  Matt Barber, Root Nine bassist and Watertown resident. "I suggested the Animal Rescue League of Boston because I'm a huge believer in adopting rescue animals. My wife and I have a rescue dog named Oliver who was saved from a neglectful and unhealthy living situation, and he's absolutely the sweetest, gentlest creature I've ever met.

Barber said it wasn't hard to persuade the rest of the band, nor to enlist others to join them on the bill. 

"Animal abuse and neglect happens everywhere, even if it doesn't always get reported in the news," said Matt Barber, Root Nine bassist and Watertown resident. "Most cases never get reported. News-making events such as the Puppy Doe abuse case that was in the news recently are just the tip of the iceberg." 

Barber said the proceeds from ticket sales and all raffle items (of which there are many) will be donated directly to the Animal Rescue League of Boston, which will help in its efforts to save animals who would otherwise never have a chance of living a happy, healthy life. Last year's event raised a little over $1,000.
"This year we'd like to at least double that amount," said Barber. "We think we'll do it, especially with such great raffle items this year."

Rock & Roll for Rescue Animals happens at the Radio Bar in Somerville, and tickets are $10 at the door. 


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