Believing in something better

U.S. Cellular hosts free concert in Cedar Rapids

Ella Schulte

More stories from Ella Schulte

Junior Sarah Cunningham holds her free Kesha tickets after standing in line for two hours.
Joan Cunningham Photo.

Empowerment. Progression. Music.

To commemorate 30 years of providing a safe and reliable network, U.S. Cellular has planned to fund a free concert as a way to commemorate customers for their support over the years.

Doors will open starting at 6 p.m. on November 2, 2018 at the U.S. Cellular Center, located in Downtown Cedar Rapids, where global pop star, Kesha, is set to take the stage.

Despite setbacks, such as the flood of 2008, the community has consistently managed to uphold the company’s popular slogan, “Believe in Something Better.” Whether this has been shown by locals coming together to sandbag when the river gets high,  volunteers   eager to organize fundraisers and walks residents have not fallen short of leaving their mark on the City of Five Seasons.

“Hosting a free concert is an awesome way to give back to the community. Not only does it allow people to enjoy a free concert, but it gets people downtown, which helps out local businesses,” Xavier junior and ticket holder Sarah Cunningham said. “I haven’t been to a Kesha concert,  or a concert at the U.S. Cellular Center, so I’m hoping it’ll be a fun experience.”

Free tickets were  available through Z102.9 and at the U.S. Cellular Center, as well as U.S. Cellular retail stores across eastern Iowa. These tickets were distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. A sweepstakes for VIP tickets and grand prizes and  giveaways have been organized.

“Everyone likes music. Everyone loves music. It’s the one thing that everyone can get behind, whether they like country, pop, rock, or really any type of genre. Music is music,” Xavier graduate and Z102.9 radio personality Jon Kardos said. “It’s something that speaks to everyone, no matter one’s race or gender, or how young or old you are. Kesha is a great fit for this free concert because everyone loves her, and she is doing awesome things. I’m really glad she’s on the rebound.”

For one night, regardless of age, race or gender, every member of the community has the chance  to sit back, relax, and believe in something better.