LIHU‘E — Rob Silverman of Rob’s Good Times Grill donated $15,000 to the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mount Vernon, Illinois, on Wednesday.
In return, Silverman got the 20-guitar signed by music legends collection, and a signed drum head belonging to David Lister, the former owner of WDML 106.9 FM in Southern Illinois and current on-island manager of Star94.3.
“I am a Counselor Emeritus with Cedarhurst, and it’s special for me to do this for this fine institution,” Lister said. “Cedarhurst does so much for Southern Illinois, and helps a lot of children. There’s more information on their website, Cedarhurst.org.”
Lister said the collection took more than 20 years to amass, starting in 1998 when he got a signature from Paul Rogers at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds.
“All the artists were told it will be for a local charity,” Lister said. “From Paul Rogers, I was able to get signatures from 20 artists in four states. Some of these artists include B.B. King, Eric Clapton, Sting, Morris Day & The Time, Elwood Blues (also known as Dan Aykroyd) and Counting Cows.”
A Rob’s employee look quizzically at the black Stratocaster signed by Carlos Santana.
“This is coming to Rob’s,” said Silverman, who was joined by Lister who turned over a red Stratocaster signed by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. “Rob Silverman is a great restaurateur, and gives back to the community.”
Lister said he owes special thanks to people like Bob Jackson, Jessie Raya, Angie Brown, Tom Okeef, Stephen McCord and the many road managers that helped him get the signatures.
“Thanks to Duane Flota, John Dodd, Vic Cusumano, Milano Metals for helping facilitate the packing and shipping,” Lister said. “Also, Southwest cargo shipping for their affordable, professional and courteous service.”
