Punk Rock Prom

(Published April 29, 2010 in the Daily Item Applause section, page D3)

The 2nd annual Punk Rock Prom benefiting To Write Love on Her Arms, also known as TWLOHA, will be held at Shikellamy High School this Friday.

Punk Rock Prom was started as a senior project in 2009 by Shikellamy senior Samantha Dailey. Current senior and event organizer Kate Kistler is organizing the event’s second year for her senior project.

Five bands have donated their time to this year’s event. The bands performing will be An Ocean's Farewell, Lights Camera Distraction, Lucas Carpenter, The Groundbreaking Ceremony and Farewell Rescue.

“The [Punk Rock Prom] proceeds go to the To Write Love on Her Arms foundation. The community should come, not just to hear some great music, but also to help support a great cause,” said Kistler.

To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit organization which focuses on helping those struggling with thoughts of suicide, depression, self injury and addiction. TWLOHA raises awareness of these issues and connects sufferers with treatment centers and support groups. TWLOHA uses supportive musicians and other entertainers to promote its cause.

"To Write Love On Her Arms is such a noble cause, and The Groundbreaking Ceremony naturally gravitates towards it. The messages of GBC songs such as "Fight To Stay Alive" and "Ride It Out" are very aligned with the ideals of TWLOHA, so we're very honored to be able to give back to this organization through our music," said Chas Myers, guitarist of The Groundbreaking Ceremony.

Northumberland based band, Farewell Rescue, is in its second year of supporting Punk Rock Prom.

“TWLOHA is a great cause because it's so positive. It exists to encourage, inform, inspire. We’ve got a really cool forum as musicians, why not use it to inspire and encourage as well,” said Josh Kerstetter, bassist for Farewell Rescue.

According to Kistler, punk attire is encouraged, but not required to attend the event.

Punk Rock Prom will be held on Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m at Shikellamy High School, Sixth and Walnut Streets, Sunbury. All ages are welcome. Tickets are available before the show for $6 by visiting Josh at the Susquehanna Valley Mall Hot Topic and tickets will be available at the door for $10. For more information on To Write Love on Her Arms, visit www.twloha.com.