After cancer diagnosis, musicians fundraise for Bog co-owner Brian Craig at Scranton Cultural Center on Nov. 23
The Scranton music and arts scene owes much to Brian Craig, so it’s only appropriate that artists and friends alike plan to give back to him in his time of need.
It was announced publicly today that Craig, well-known in the area as the co-owner of The Bog in downtown Scranton, a drummer in several local bands over the years, and more recently a barber at Loyalty Barber Shop and Shave Parlor of Scranton across from The Bog, has been diagnosed with cancer and is currently undergoing treatment.
Some of his closest friends and colleagues have organized an all-ages benefit for “Craiger” at the Scranton Cultural Center (420 N. Washington Ave., Scranton) on Friday, Nov. 23 from 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Tickets, which are $25 (with $1 service fee), are on sale now via Big Cartel. Larger donations can also be made through the online store, where those who cannot attend can also donate.
A who’s who of Scranton musicians who have cut their teeth and performed at The Bog countless times will play acoustic sets at the “Bri Day” fundraiser, including the anticipated reunion of Mighty Fine Wine, the Tom Petty Appreciation Band, JP Biondo (of Cabinet), These Idol Hands, Mike Quinn, Tom Graham, Christopher Kearney, Charles Havira, and Brian Langan (of The SW!MS, Langor, Kock107, Needle Points, Sweatheart, and The Bog’s Panked! Dance Party).
Food will be provided by Linden Chicken and the Backyard Ale House, and there will be plenty of chugging for those who are 21 and over.
The plans for “Bri Day” were released today on Facebook with a message from the organizers:
Dear Friends,
Recently, our good friend, Brian Craig, was diagnosed with cancer. Most of you know Brian as co-owner of The Bog, a barber at Loyalty Barber Shop, or pounding on the bongos at a local music venue. We will be hosting “Bri Day: A Fundraiser for Brian Craig and His Family,” on Friday, November 23 at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple in order to raise funds to help with costs that Brian and his family will incur. Brian will be receiving treatment at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, and while he does have health insurance, there will be a lot of costs that are not covered. Brian has given so much to the community over the years, and we are asking for you to return the favor. We hope to see you at the event!
Thank you all for visiting this page. We cannot begin to express our gratitude.
Love,
Team Craiger
All proceeds will be donated to Craig and his family. Those who wish to sponsor the event or have any questions can e-mail bri.day.fundraiser@gmail.com. For more details and updates, follow Bri Day on Facebook and Instagram.
See NEPA Scene’s photos of Craig performing with And the Moneynotes here and The Hill You Die On here.
Lead photo by Jason Riedmiller Photography
