Benefit show raising funds for Veterans Facility

JUST A QUICK NOTE HERE: This isn't one of my regular newspaper columns, but a press release detailing my band's upcoming benefit show for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Hope some of you can join us for this important event! Thanks - Mike.

GRAND RAPIDS – For the third year in row, two area bands are hosting a benefit concert to raise funds for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Slated for Nov. 17 at the Knights of Columbus KC Banquet Center, 5830 Clyde Park Ave. SW, doors open at 6 p.m. with live music running from 7 to 11 p.m.

Hosted by West Michigan band The Guinness Brothers, this year’s event also features longtime local headliner, The Boyfriends. Both classic rock groups have been together for decades and have strong local followings; turnout is expected to be strong.

Funds raised during the past two years’ shows totaled just shy of $10,000, with 100 percent of profits gleaned going to the Home for Veterans. According to Guinness Brothers drummer, Calvin Weeks, who is organizing the event, the funds help supply “extras” for the vets.

“Last year, the money went to things like the facility’s Vegas Day, trips for the guys, the vet’s carnival and several trips to Whitecaps baseball games,” Weeks said. “Funds are tight at the facility and without efforts like this, the vets often don’t have much to do. Considering what they gave to this country, I think this is the least we can do.”

There is no cost to attend the benefit, but a free will offering will be accepted at the door. Additionally, several fundraising activities – a silent auction, grab bags and similar happenings – are planned throughout the evening.

Several sponsors have gotten on board this year, including Brann’s restaurants, which is providing signed NFL jerseys, signed photos of professional athletes and other items to be auctioned. Also, the USS Badger has donated tickets to ride the ferry out of Ludington round trip to Wisconsin. Presto Print in Grand Rapids provided all the fundraiser’s printing needs.

“Also, the folks at the KC Banquet Center are letting us use their facility again and providing the cash bar, which is great,” noted Rocky Jett, who plays sax with The Guinness Brothers Band. “It’s an awesome venue and a great place to hear live music. They have a huge dance floor. It’s always a lot of fun.”

Weeks added he is currently in the process of lining up even more donors and trying to promote the event through local media. Those wishing to donate or who want more information can contact Weeks at (231) 923-6024 or visit the Guinness Brothers Band’s Facebook page at facebook.com/GuinnessBrothersBand.