Jammin For Joplin: Weekend Concert & Benefit
This Saturday, a couple of our favorite things come together to form one spectacular event: raising money for people in need, prizes and local cover band $ellout!
Jammin for Joplin is a fundraising event that takes place just down the street at the Bottleneck on Saturday, July 2. It starts at 8 p.m. and all ages are welcome- even children.
The cost is $7 payable at the door, and 100% of the funds will be donated to the United Way to assist people in need in Joplin and Reading after the devastating tornados that struck their towns.
A silent auction will also be available with lots of great prizes, including gift certificates to Pawsh Wash, Merry Maids, Wheat State Pizza, Java Break, tickets to Kanrocksas, tickets to Oceans of Fun, KU basketball tickets and more.
$ellout, featuring current long-time Sandbartender Danny and former Sandbartender Bob occasionally filling in on the drums, will perform along with DJ Approach. Jason Barr will serve as the evening's emcee.
Jammin for Joplin was organized by Lindsey Frye of Eats & Beats. Lindsey was kind enough to answer a few questions for us.
What made you want to organize this event?
Honestly I saw the pictures, heard the stories and it just struck a chord in me. I wanted to do more than text a $10 donation. It really hit home to me because of my situation of being unemployed. I looked around at my situation and thought, at least I have a home to come home to. I can tuck my kids in their beds at night. These people in Joplin can't. They have absolutely nothing and no matter my situation they need help more. I decided on this type of event because entertainment and music is always great to bring people together and get people excited for a cause. Steve Ozark of Sellout has been instrumental in opening many doors to make this event a success.
What's been the best and worst part of organizing the event?
The best part is knowing that 100% of everything raised is going to Joplin and Reading. The hardest part has been gathering donations.
What kind of community support have you received?
Everyone has been very willing to donate goods for the silent auction and drawing. KLWN has been kind enough to have me on two of their morning shows to talk about the event. Both The Lazer and The Bull have been great on mentioning the event on the radio as well.
It's not too late to contribute! Lindsey is still looking for donations of any kind; nothing is too big or too small. Even if you can't donate an item, come out for the party on Saturday night!