Benefit concert series raises over $8K for downtown businesses
The cleanup effort in downtown Tuscumbia continues in the wake of the Feb. 15 tornado.
Not only were many businesses affected physically by damage to buildings, but financially as well thanks to repairs and loss of hours open.
Business owner Kevin Johnson, who owns Kingpin’s lounge, hosted a three-day benefit concert where artists volunteered their time.
Between donations accepted, a silent auction, food and T-shirt sales, the event raised over $8,000. Johnson said those funds will go directly to downtown business owners affected by the storm.
“The concert went great,” Johnson said. “We had a wonderful time all three days. We had a lot of amazing talent that donated their time and a huge, positive response from the business owners wanting to help those affected by the tornado.
“The silent auction was phenomenal. We had a lot of support with it. Between the door cover, donations, silent auction and T-shirts, we raised $8,346. We have a few more silent auction items that may increase that amount. The money is going to go to Downtown Tuscumbia, Inc. We are working with them to make sure they get distributed to businesses affected by the tornado in Tuscumbia.”
Johnson, who is active among a group of downtown business owners, said he felt like he “needed” to do something to help out his fellow merchants in the wake of the tornado.
“I felt like we needed to help take care of those that help take care of everyone else,” he said. “I want to thank everyone who came out to support us and all the business owners. We were blessed to be able to do it.
“Without the help of so many people and businesses and of course all of the amazing musicians who donated their time, none of this could have been possible. The love for our community knows no end. We truly want to thank everyone who showed up and supported Tunes for Tuscumbia and can’t wait to work with Downtown Tuscumbia, Inc. to get these funds in the hands of the business owners affected by the tornado.”
