Last fall, the band had a December date at the Curve Inn in Springfield.  They had discussed the idea of turning it into a benefit for a local charity, and after consulting the venue owner, Ami Merchant, they decided to debut the first annual Christmas at the Curve, with all the proceeds going to the local Sangamon County Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Foundation.  Their mission is to “collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.”  That seemed like a perfect fit for the local music scene, and coupled with local bands The Shunpikers and After Sunset, we were able to raise a decent amount of money and a small batch of toys on a cold Thursday night.

Fast forward to this weekend, when Fun DMC presented Christmas at the Curve 2, featuring The Mix and Big Daddy Jasper.  Having amazing weather, moving to a Saturday evening, and the combined popularity of the three groups meant that the venue was packed wall to wall with people who showed up to support such a great cause.  The bands were on point (thank to Ric Major!), the crowd danced the whole night, and everyone had a fantastic time.  When all the dust cleared, we had a trailer full of toys to drop off and had raised just under $2,500 in donations.

“As I was unloading the last of the toys from Christmas At the Curve at the Toys For Tots warehouse this morning, Sgt. Altevogt placed two of these Warrior Chips in my hand. However, they can never belong to me alone. Very special thanks to Big Daddy Jasper and The Mix who gave their time and talents for such a great cause. To Ami Merchant, Ric Major, and the entire crew at The Curve Inn. And most of all, to those of you who came out in droves, filling those boxes with cash and toys for the kids in this city. These coins belong to us all.” – Robert