Leading up to this week-long campaign, jukebox operators — AMOA members and nonmembers alike — were asked to "opt-in" to the program, whereby one cent of each paid play during that time frame on their designated digital boxes would be directed to the St. Baldrick's Foundation. Spearheaded by the AMOA Jukebox Promotion Committee and directed by its Chairman Mike Zappa, the effort featured the collaboration and support of AMI Entertainment, Ecast and Touch Tunes Interactive Networks. During the recently-concluded Expo, to promote the program, a ceremonial head shaving — which is the cornerstone of the St. Baldrick's fundraising activities — was conducted at the Opening Gala. Four individuals, volunteered (or were volunteered) to call attention to the cause and to raise a few dollars in the process. Leading up to and during the event, Touch Tunes' Dan McCallister raised several thousand dollars in pledges to get a buzz cut, while fellow shavees Charles Baxter, also of Touch Tunes, Mike Zappa of Lorain Music (and AMOA Jukebox Promo Chair) and JAck Kelleher (Executive Vice President - AMOA) helped raise a few more bucks. When the shorn locks settled, more than $10,000 was raised for this volunteer-driven charity, whose mission it is to help fund research aimed at eradicating childhood cancers. Pretty impressive, given the fact that our industry is already generously supporting charitable endeavors like the Wayne E. Hesch Scholarship program and AAMCF Charitable Foundation, among several others. Hopefully, the results of the St. Baldrick's initiative will pave the way to making it an annual activity. While there are countless organizations raising money for worthwhile causes, this is a special one. Check out the website and you will find it hard not to be touched in a personal, profound way. Thanks go to many for making this program a reality: • AMOA's Jukebox Promotion Committee • AMI Entertainment • Ecast • Touch Tunes Interactive Networks • Operators who elected to "opt-in" and participate And, on behalf of Dan, Charles, Mike (pictured left to right here) and Jack, thanks to the individuals who overpaid greatly to have a quartet of guys get a trim ... but supported a great mission in the process.