4Groovers

Not too long ago there was this debate among friends about the Lust4Life parties. The conversation arose because I was suggesting using the party as a vehicle for charity, to assist in raising some money for art supplies of an under funded school. I have to admit being quite shocked by the position by one of my friends who suggested not to do the charity at Lust4Life because it was just about promoting music. This is far from truth.

When Lust4Life started almost 5 years ago, it was in response to the need that arose out of the devastation after hurricane Katrina. In addition to donating to a Katrina charity, we also collected a small amount for Sphinx Organization, an non-profit that builds diversity in classical music and at the time was running a campaign to assist under privileged African-American and Hispanic-American youth to purchase instruments. In successive years other charities where chosen to support.

In the original spirit of support victims of Katrina and as tribute to the New Orleans area, a photo from Stylo's trip to New Orleans French Quarter that featured prominently as sign that read "Lust Is Life Condom Co." was the original logo. In a bit of satire, we decided to turn the concept of lust on it's ears and use it to give back to our communities while, yes, having a dance party that featured House music.

That being said, I found it disheartening to criticize a common methodology to promote a charity, namely by pairing it with something people already like to do or with a corporate entity. This practice is used on large scales (see the breast cancer awareness and the United Way campaigns that are done with the NFL...) or smaller grass-root like scales (see your local paper). Either way to suggest Lust4Life goals are insincere is bogus. Giving back and doing so while supporting local talent is closer to vibe behind the term 'community' than through a large corporate soft drink or beer manufacturer. But let's not criticize those methods either for each has a place in helping the public for the greater good. Instead look for ways to be a part of the solution...

So in this vein, Lust4Life is asking you to Spread the Holiday Love. Join this on-going campaign by Shorty's, Diva Productions, and the Baltimore Music Conference as we collect items for the upcoming holiday season to support our local communities

We will be accepting donations at Shorty’s Martini Bar & Lounge (3301 Foster Ave) Thursday - Sunday nights until December 23rd starting on Nov1st.

Donations of any amount will be greatly appreciated. For those feeling extra generous we will be offering the following rewards:

$25+ cash donation = 20% off of your drink tab at Shorty’s
20 items = 10% off of your drink tab at Shorty’s
10 items = 1 Free Drink at Shorty’s

PLUS, each donation will qualify for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the 2010 BMC/BAM Music Festival!!

Below is a list of some of the items most needed at area food banks.
When possible please donate All Natural/Organic food products and please no items in glass containers as we will not accept those products

Meat & Protein
Canned meat, ham and chicken
Peanut Butter
Macaroni and Cheese
Canned stews
Soups
Canned tuna and salmon
Powdered Milk
Dried canned beans

Fruits & Vegetables
Canned fruits and juices
Canned vegetables
Canned soup

Breads & Cereals
Oatmeal
Breakfast cereal
Rice and rice cakes
Pasta

Non-Food Items also needed
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Bar Soap
Deodorant
Toilet Paper
Plastic/Paper plates and cups
Sanitary napkins and tampons

Thank you for your support!

www.shortysbaltimore.com
www.bmcon.org