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Article featuring "The Casting Out." Written by: Shaun O'Connor
Migrant farm workers and punk rock musicians have very little in common, but for three days in March these two unique groups partnered to raise money for those in need.
The Harvest of Hope Foundation held its first annual Harvest of Hope Festival at the St. John’s Fairgrounds in St. Augustine, Fla. The three-day festival started on March 6th, 2009 and featured over 140 bands coming together to raise money for migrant farm workers throughout the country.
Over 16,000 people came out to enjoy the music and to support this cause. Phillip Kellerman, president of the Harvest of Hope foundation teamed up with Ryan Murphy from No Idea Records, to put together this event.
The planning started over nine months ago when Murphy was approached by the Harvest of Hope Foundation. After all the hard work and late evenings, Murphy was amazed Friday morning when he first saw the fairgrounds. “Even after months of planning and hard work, it’s hard to believe that I was able to put this together, this is way more than I ever expected.”
Murphy said, “It was important to find a worthy cause, so when Mr. Kellerman approached me it was an easy decision.” Kellerman was equally excited to find a partner for his project.
The Harvest of Hope foundation was formed in 1997 and has distributed close to $600,000 to migrant farm workers to date. The foundation provides medical care, educational benefits and assistance to repair farming equipment, amongst other things. Kellerman said, “Without this aid many of our hard working farmers would be left with little to no help available.”
Before the first act of the weekend, Kellerman took the main stage and spoke for a few minutes about the hardships of the men and women working in the fields we passed as we all drove to the fairgrounds. “As you drove here today, whether you came from the North or the South, you undoubtedly passed thousands of migrant farm workers. You can’t always see them from the road because they are often miles inward working tirelessly to provide you with inexpensive food.”
Kellerman said, “We were able to accomplish our three main goals this weekend. We wanted to raise money for migrant workers, increase awareness of issue involving migrant workers and publicize our mission while getting the bands some exposure.” Many of the musicians agreed.
Nathan Gray, lead singer for “The Casting Out” spoke to the audience before he performed his set. “We do festivals all the time, but this one is different. On Monday when everyone is driving home, these workers will still be out in the fields working. Please don’t forget why we are here this weekend, even after the music is over, the need for assistance will remain.” Gray’s views were echoed by both Murphy and Kellerman throughout the weekend.
After his performance, Gray described why he felt compelled to come to this Festival. “This was definitely worth the drive from Delaware. It’s nice to do what we love and still be able to help those in need, everybody wins.” Gray was certain he would make the trip again next year.
While talking to Murphy on Monday after the festival was over, he showed a clear sign of relief. “I’m just so glad we were able to pull this off, and I can’t wait for the next Harvest of Hope Festival, but first I’m going to take a few days to recuperate.”
Both Murphy and Kellerman were excited to announce the three-year contract they agreed to, ensuring that this would not be the last Harvest of Hope Festival.
For who missed out, be sure to come and enjoy the four music stages, carnival rides, on-site camping and relaxed atmosphere next year. Kellerman said, “We’ve already began planning for next year’s festival.”
Once the crowds cleared, Murphy had a moment to reflect on his accomplishment. “Breaking even for a first year festival while generating proceeds for medical and educational assistance to migrant farm workers is a dream come true, and I’m just thankful I could be associated with something like this.”