CLEVELAND — It was a big night for the Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and perhaps an even bigger night for fans of the band Train.
ROC in CLE, a fundraiser dedicated to planting trees in Greater Cleveland, capped a weekend of events with a music festival Saturday night at the Bolton Estate in Mentor. Several local groups played, followed by Train as the headliner.
Train has been playing for almost three decades with more than 10 million albums sold. The group won a Grammy for its 2001 hit "Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)," with other top songs including "Hey, Soul Sister," "Drive By," Meet Virginia," and "50 Ways to Say Goodbye."
The idea for ROC in CLE came from discussions between the Land Conservancy and Hudson residents Scott and Julie Mawaka, who operate the Mawaka Foundation, a charitable nonprofit established by the couple in 2004.
"When we learned about what the Land Conservancy was doing in and around the Cleveland area, we knew partnering with them would be a great fit," said Scott Mawaka. "Over the years we’ve partnered with many local charities to raise awareness and provide support. This year we are so excited to host tree plantings, organize this great panel discussion, and host a world-class concert event. We’re going to generate funding for the Land Conservancy to continue their great work providing the people of our region with essential natural assets through land conservation and restoration."
ROC in CLE kicked off Thursday with a ceremonial tree planting in Public Square. Browns owner Dee Haslam and Indians owner Paul Dolan were among those in attendance.