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Cohn concert benefits charities

The 25th annual B.R. Cohn Charity Events Fall Music Festival raised more than the nearly $300,000 that was raised at last year's event.

Proceeds are still being counted.

The Friday night auction raised $200,000 alone, including a lot presented by chef Guy Fieri himself for a chance to join the set of his hit television show "Diners, Drive-in's and Dives." That raised $37,500 itself.

"I am extremely grateful to all the artists that performed as well as our loyal fans that attended this weekend. It shows a good time can be had while still generating hundreds of thousands of dollars for many deserving charities," said Bruce Cohn.

The festival was held in the memory of Marty Cohn, Bruce Cohn's brother who passed away in late March after a battle with cancer. The concert's new second stage, named after Marty, featured performances during intermission.

Saturday's concert included performances by the Doobie Brothers and their guests Sammy Hagar and Joe Satriani. Leon Russell performed for his first time at the festival, as well as Jim Messina, Greg Kihn, Jeff Watson & Lone Ranger and Carlos Reyes.

Sunday's performance included sets by Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Doobie Brothers with guest Jim Messina.

In addition, Cohn's annual Celebrity Golf Classic was held at the Sonoma Golf Club on Monday, Sept. 26. Celebrity golfers included Kenny Gradney and Paul Barrere of Little Feat and Bill Gibson of Huey Lewis and the News.

Over the years, Cohn has been able to raise more than $6 million for various local and national charities including national veterans organizations. This year, the events benefit Redwood Empire Food Bank, Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance, Sonoma Valley Education Foundation, Glide Memorial and Santa Rosa Memorial Trauma Center.