ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — The annual Wine & Dine Radiothon hosted by WYXL Lite Rock 97.3 raised $11,710 for the United Way of Tompkins County.

For 13 hours on Friday, February 13th, “Dave & Jen in the Morning” aired a live radiothon pairing local restaurants, wineries, cideries, and breweries to raise funds. The event featured hourly on-air auctions and listener song dedications.

“We are proud to host this event,” said morning co-host Dave Ashton. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase what local radio is all about…true connections between listeners, advertisers, and the community we’re all part of.”

WYXL co-host Jen Mattison added, “The medium of radio brings music and emotion together. I love that listeners feel what we feel…and that creates the opportunity to truly make an impact within our community.”

Proceeds from the Radiothon directly support United Way initiatives, funding programs that address critical needs such as education, financial stability, and health services across the region. This year’s total of $11,710 brings the event’s cumulative fundraising impact to more than $160,000 since its inception.

“It’s wonderful to have caring media partners like Cayuga Media Group…and specifically Lite Rock 97.3, Dave, and Jen,” said Gail Belokur, Chief Development & Operating Officer of the United Way of Tompkins County. “They care deeply about the people of our region and consistently use their platform for good. Each year, it grows more impressive.”