Marathon Bluegrass Jam Will Benefit Families of American Soldiers

Marathon Bluegrass Jam Will Benefit Families of American Soldiers

GRANDPA EDDIES

01.20.11

Grandpa Eddie’s Alabama Ribs and BBQ and Richmond bluegrass band East of Afton are proud to present The Second Annual Marathon Bluegrass Jam at the restaurant on Feb. 26 to benefit the Richmond Fisher House. The Jam will feature 12 hours of non-stop live bluegrass music from noon to midnight.

The Jam will be a repeat of one last year that raised $6,000 for the organization that provides free room and board to families of American soldiers recuperating at McGuire Veterans Hospital. Grandpa Eddie’s owner Carey Friedman said, “Last year’s event was an unqualified success. We were all overwhelmed by the response from the community of musicians and all the bluegrass fans. I'm optimistic we can raise at least $10,000 for Fisher House this year.”

Marathon Jams to benefit Fisher Houses across the nation will be held on the same day in at least six states and in Afghanistan, Iraq and Italy. The first marathon jam was held in Raleigh, N.C., in 2004. This year's Richmond Jam will include a number of Richmond-area bluegrass bands, as well as individuals or groups who want to stop by to sing or play. Besides East of Afton, groups already agreeing to play are Copper Ridge, the Cary Street Ramblers, Leather Britches, Highway 249, Churchyard Grass and the Shockoe Bottom Boys. Bands and individuals will play on the restaurant's main stage and in a special jam tent set up in the front parking lot.

All of the musicians are playing for free, and all money donated will go directly to the Richmond Fisher House. Brian Sullivan, the bass player for East of Afton and organizer of the Richmond Jam, says all pickers and singers of any skill level who want to participate are welcome. “We want to open participation to everybody,” he said. “Twelve hours is a long time, so anyone who wants to play will certainly get a chance. They can call or just show up.” Bands or individuals who'd like to sign up to participate can e-mail Sullivan at marathonjam@me.com Also, those wanting information on making contributions or additional details on the Jam can go to Grandpa Eddie’s Web site at http://www.GPEBBQ.com. Grandpa Eddie's is located at 11129 Three Chopt Rd. There is no cover charge for the event, which is open to bluegrass fans and musicians alike. Donations are encouraged at the door. No reservations are required, but this year, as part of the Marathon Jam’s fundraising campaign, a few tables may be purchased for the entire day or for certain hours. All proceeds will go to Fisher House.