Tonic iPod Auction on Summer Break

Tonic is taking a brief, summer hiatus from one of the most powerful projects we've launched to date. Take a breather and take a look at what you guys have done. It's pretty impressive.

For those late to the party, here's the scoop: Dozens and dozens of amazing public figures and pop culture icons have pitched in their time and passion to load up personalized, autographed iPods for our exclusive auction series. But while the stars may give the endorsement, you're the ones who are making the dent.

So far and thanks to you, the project has raised nearly $15,000 for Music Rising, the organization devoted to making sure New Orleans' distinct music scene keeps kickin' post-Katrina. The city that brought us jazz and blues cannot risk fading from the artistic spotlight just because nature gave it a fierce ass-kicking. Nope. Not at all. We and Music Rising are kicking back.

The thing is, the iPod is sort of a symbol, an incentive -- our little cultural gimmick to make sure you open your eyes to what's going on down in the Gulf Coast. We're not too proud to admit it. Tonic wants you to know that bid or no bid, there are incredible, talented musicians whose careers and artistic passions were ripped out from under them when the storm hit. Raising the stakes for an iPod is really your way to have a little fun while supporting a musical fire we can't let die.

So there's your no-b.s. call to action. Now let's review the superficial stats:

• Britney loves Madonna.
• You love Ellen.
• Mariah is a bigger draw with the credit cards than Gwen.
• I did not win Buddy Guy's iPod. Damn.
• Samantha Ronson is hella popular.

Don't worry, we're not done yet. The program will be back this Fall, bigger and better than ever. Stay tuned!