SPRINGFIELD, MA – Rock 102 (WAQY-FM) proudly wrapped up its 32nd annual Mayflower Marathon Food Drive, delivering another incredible show of community spirit and generosity. The three-day event, held at MGM Springfield in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, raised an astounding $260,000 in food and cash donations—a new record for the long-running tradition.
Morning hosts Bax & Nagle powered through 52 hours of broadcasting, rallying listeners to donate non-perishable food items to benefit Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield. With food insecurity affecting more than 50% of households across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties, the need for support has never been greater.
This year’s drive was dedicated to former Rock 102 morning co-host and Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Famer John O’Brien, who passed away Sunday after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. John was, and will always remain, a cornerstone of Rock 102’s history, and will be remembered fondly by numerous friends and colleagues. Among his many contributions, one of the most enduring is the Mayflower Marathon food drive. John helped launch this incredible event 32 years ago, and it will continue for many years to come in his honor.
