Table Talk: Bluegrass benefit helps VA's Fisher House

Table Talk: Bluegrass benefit helps VA's Fisher House

RICHMOND TIMES DISPATCH

By JOAN TUPPONCE

02.17.11

Bluegrass (and lots of it) is on tap at Grandpa Eddie's Alabama Ribs & BBQ at 11129 Three Chopt Road on Feb. 26. Richmond bluegrass band East of Afton and the restaurant will host a Marathon Bluegrass Jam from noon until midnight.

This will be the second year East of Afton has planned the benefit for the Richmond Fisher House, which provides free room and board to families of American soldiers recuperating at McGuire Veterans Hospital.

"Last year was a big success. It was standing room only," said Brian Sullivan, upright bass player for the band. "More than 1,000 people came through during the 12-hour period. We collected $6,000 through donations at the door."

Eight bands are donating their time this year. In addition to East of Afton, bands are Churchyard Grass, Leather Britches, Highway 249, Copper Ridge, Shockoe Bottom Boys, Cary Street Ramblers and Shelton's Mill.

"We want people to bring their instruments and jump in," Sullivan said.

He compared last year's event to a "family reunion."

"A lot of people stayed for multiple hours, and there were generous donations," he said.

For information or to volunteer, e-mail Sullivan at marathonjam@me.com or call the restaurant, (804) 270-7427.