Ohio Mayor Helps Students

Students and staff of WJCU. Photo by Sean Finucane.

 Ohio Mayor Helps Students Donate 18,000 Meals Amid Winter Weather Advisory

John Carroll Students Surpass Expectations with Ohio Charity Concert

CLEVELAND, OHIO, FEBRUARY 2025 — Despite a snowstorm sweeping through Cleveland, more than 100 students and community members gathered at Beachland Tavern this past weekend for WJCU’s annual charity concert, Blizzard Bash. The event, a powerful show of generosity, raised a record-breaking amount of donations — enough to provide 18,000 meals to families in need, exceeding the event’s fundraising goal by over $1,500.

This year’s Blizzard Bash took place amidst a Winter Weather Advisory, but the community’s commitment to supporting a great cause was unwavering. Attendees, volunteers, and performers braved the snowstorm and came together for a memorable night of music and philanthropy. The event benefits The Hunger Network, an Ohio-based charity working to combat food insecurity in the Cleveland area.

A Moment of Generosity: Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan’s Contribution

Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan of University Heights, who serves as the city’s leader and is a long-time supporter of WJCU, was present at the event and added an unforgettable gesture of generosity. He won the 50/50 raffle, but rather than keeping the prize, Brennan immediately donated his winnings back to The Hunger Network. His contribution helped push Blizzard Bash past its fundraising goal and set the tone for a truly impactful evening.

“Thank you to our friends at WJCU for organizing this event to benefit The Hunger Network,” said Brennan. “Thank you to all the people who supported this worthy cause.” Brennan, who has a strong history with WJCU, has previously joined students on-air for World College Radio Day, celebrated WJCU’s Guinness World Record, and contributed to the station’s Hall of Fame induction.

An Evening of Music, Unity, and Community Impact

The Blizzard Bash concert featured performances by talented local artists including Mr. Carnivore, Ziggy D of C-Level, and Esther Fitz. With a suggested $10 donation at the door, attendees not only enjoyed live music but also contributed to a greater cause. The event was powered by the generosity of key sponsors including Crown Royal, Wooooo Energy, and Lakewood Truck Park. Photographs from the evening, taken by John Carroll University student Sean Finucane, capture the spirit of the event, including a group shot of the WJCU team and a moment with Mayor Brennan on stage.

Looking Ahead: A Bigger and Better Blizzard Bash

As Blizzard Bash continues to grow, WJCU and John Carroll University students are already making plans for next year’s event. The success of Blizzard Bash 2025 has solidified it as a must-attend fundraiser in the Cleveland community, and the event organizers are already teasing more details for the 2025 edition. Stay tuned for announcements on social media as the team gears up for next year’s even bigger and better Blizzard Bash.

This year’s Blizzard Bash was made possible by the hard work of John Carroll University students and staff, especially those involved with WJCU 88.7 FM, including current Guinness World Record holder Zachary ‘DJ Z13’ Sinutko, along with co-hosts Emily Davala and Jayden Beddingfield. Also lending their support were Jason Patrick Meyers and Eric Simna, University Heights Civic Award winners and the creators of Blizzard Bash.

*Group photograph of the students and staff of WJCU by Sean Finucane.