In response to the recent wave of storms that brought tornadoes and highly-damaging winds to the Midwest, STYX and REO SPEEDWAGON have announced that they are using their combined might to help raise funds for those affected by this tragedy. On December 4th, these proud members of the Midwest’s rock elite will appear with special guests (to be announced shortly) at US Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington, Illinois in a fundraiser: Rock To The Rescue Extends A Hand To Those In Need. Funds will be earmarked for affected families in central Illinois communities that were left reeling in the wake of devastating tornadoes and winds. In order to maximize charitable proceeds, the artists, along with numerous vendors, crew and local staff, have generously forgone any personal compensation for the evening.

Tickets for this performance go on sale at Ticketmaster.com for $58, $43 and $28 (tickets are subject to applicable service charges and event time and date are subject to change). Visit this location for up-to-date information. Donations to Rock to the Rescue can be made at this location

Styx guitarist and IL native James “JY” Young said, “As we approach the 50th anniversary of JFK’s assassination, I’m reminded of his famous quote, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ The good people of Illinois lent support and a helping hand to every artist on this bill at different times in their respective careers, and we owe a tremendous debt. It’s our turn to ask what we can do for this great State, and the best way we know to help those in need is to get on stage and let the incredible healing power of music play its part in rebuilding Illinois."

REO Speedwagon singer/guitarist Kevin Cronin said, "I am Illinois born and bred. REO Speedwagon is an Illinois band. The word ‘Illinois’ is music to me. The utter devastation and human suffering in Washington, IL and the surrounding areas is heartbreaking. I believe that we need to take care of our own... the people of Illinois are our own, and we are theirs."

"With our company being based in this area for over 40 years and my family living in Pekin which was effected by the storm, we wanted to do something to help all those affected. Everyone at Jay Goldberg Events have had friends, family members and employees who were directly impacted by the storm," said Jay Goldberg of Jay Goldberg Events and Entertainment.

City of Bloomington Manager David Hales said, "The City of Bloomington has heavy hearts for those affected in the recent tornado outbreaks around Central Illinois. We know that our city and surrounding cities will pull together to help out and support this cause. We are glad to be hosting this benefit concert in our city."

"We are honored and excited to be hosting this benefit concert. We are passionate about our business and know this is the best way that we could help out. Everyone involved in putting on this concert has dropped everything to make this happen, and we are looking forward to a very successful event to help those that need it," said John Butler, President of Central Illinois Arena Management that operates the US Cellular Coliseum.