The annual Disco for David Scholarship fundraiser – a time dedicated to the memory of the late David Whelan – looks to be a huge event at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Friday night, with organizers reporting huge early ticket sales and many more expected at the door.
Organizer Kim Mahoney said they’re calling the event this year Flashback Friday due to the fact they’re bringing in several old school DJs from back in the day.
“Each of these DJs will play a set and people will remember them from years past,” she said. “We have Kevin McGoff, Smokey Cain, Eddie B, Dennis Taylor and Dan Campbell. Kevin McGoff was a big DJ at Finn McCool’s downtown. Finn’s was a big Charlestown bar and everyone went there and they will remember Kevin from that. It’s built a lot of excitement. We try to do something new each year.”
Disco for David is the annual September fundraiser to raise money for scholarships dedicated to the memory of David Whelan – a longtime activist, resident and worker in Charlestown who passed away after a battle with cancer on Dec. 16, 2015.
He was only 54 years old, and though he has been gone for nearly three years, his family said his memory is as strong as ever.
Kim Mahoney, David’s cousin, said they have already sold 26 tables and expect many at the door.
“I am in awe every year how many people Disco for David draws and how many people want to still come out to support a scholarship in David’s name,” said Mahoney. “My family is humbled. It’s a true testament to David and his memory. I can’t get over it. He is still this shining star above the Town.”
The Disco for David event supports three scholarships in Whelan’s name every June, and it also supports one scholarship at the Charlestown Schoolgirls Association event. Mahoney said they also support other causes like Edna Kelly’s Doll Carriage Parade in June.
The time will be on Friday, Sept. 14, from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Knights, Medford Street.