News Release

More than 500 area students are expected to attend the concert, which will feature eight bands from throughout Baltimore. Funds raised will go directly to AIDS Action Baltimore, a non-profit organization that provides emergency financial assistance and support for HIV-infected individuals in Baltimore and Maryland.

The Women's Center is a more than 10-year-old service organization run by female Hopkins students. Last year the group sponsored a sexual assault awareness day with activities including security walks on campus and round table discussions. This spring the Women's Center hopes to participate in the National Organization for Women's Washington, D.C., march against domestic violence.

"We're very grateful that they would think to contact us," AIDS Action Baltimore office manager Jeffrey Grabelle said of the student organization. "Being non-profit, every little bit helps."

Scheduled performers are alternative bands Edsel, Maypole and Tsunami, reggae groups Jah Works and Unity, pop artists Some Things Coming, acoustical singer Lisa Cerbone and The Allnighters, the all-male Hopkins a cappella group.

Last year's benefit raised about $2,500. Tickets are $5 at the door; food and drinks will be sold. Only those 18 and older will be admitted. Positive identification will be required to purchase alcohol.

Resource tables with information relating to AIDS and AIDS prevention will be staffed by representatives of Health Education Resource Organization, AIDS Action Baltimore, Chase Braxton Clinic, the Baltimore chapter of NOW and Stop AIDS.

"AIDS is killing thousands of women every year," said Tanya Ochs, a member of the Women's Center. "We hope that by educating the public about AIDS, we have an opportunity to help the community in a way we feel is badly needed."