Concert for Safe La Crosse

A free outdoor public concert by acclaimed La Crosse musician Rob Gonzalez in Assisi Courtyard in September launched Safe La Crosse, a community-based initiative that encourages safe and responsible behavior related to alcohol consumption.

Safe La Crosse was created by the Tri-Campus Advocacy Group with the goal of significantly reducing alcohol related injuries in the community. Viterbo, the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Western Technical College conducted a number of activities on their respective campuses to promote the campaign.

All proceeds generated through donations and concession sales at the concert benefited Safe La Crosse and Operation: River Watch, a group of students who volunteer their evenings to patrol Riverside Park, the location of several student drownings.

Gonzalez, a pianist and ­singer/ songwriter, performed trendy pop music and jazz piano. He was joined by opening performer April MacLean of Nashville, whose lyrics encompass the themes of empowerment and healing.

“Many students welcomed the opportunity to support a positive message regarding responsible alcohol consumption,” said Kartick Patel, president of Viterbo’s Student Government Association. “It’s one thing to sit back and talk about problems, it’s another to be proactive, which is what we want to do.”