Duff’s Bar in Brooklyn, NY is the kind of place where patrons become family. After renowned musician Peter Steele passed away in 2010 it only made sense that his friends congregated at Duff’s to remember him. Over the years proprietor Jimmy Duff wanted to give the remembrance even more meaning.

Peter Steele was an accomplished musician, best known as lead vocalist, bassist and composer of the gothic metal band Type O Negative. Though metal music is typically not associated with kittens, Peter was devoted to the cat she had rescued. “Peter was a really big animal lover,” Jimmy said. “We thought it would be fitting to do some sort of fundraiser for animal rescue.” Now each year Peter Steele commemorative t-shirts are sold through Duff’s to honor Peter’s memory with 100% of the proceeds going to support an animal welfare charity.

When it came to selecting the beneficiary, Jimmy said the decision was easy. “We wanted to go with someone established and above board,” he told us. “North Shore Animal League America has an excellent reputation and it’s a no-kill shelter. That sealed the deal right there…that’s truly animal rescue.”

Animal welfare is a cause that is important to Jimmy as well. Though he has had a number of beloved cats and dogs throughout his life, Jimmy’s current four-legged companion is a huge hit among his friends, family and neighbors. “Janis is a Chihuahua and has become the star of the building I live in. I can’t go anywhere without people asking me where she is. She’s the friendliest dog in the world; she just loves everybody.”

When friends and family and even former bandmates come to Duff’s Annual Peter Steele Tribute Event each year, they know they are keeping Peter’s spirit alive by also contributing to the lifesaving efforts at Animal League America. Says Jimmy, “I know if Peter knew what we were doing, he would definitely dig it.