Ishpeming Salvation Army benefit at Venice
ISHPEMING — The public is invited to attend a fundraiser tomorrow night in Ishpeming to help raise thousands for the Salvation Army.
A year and a month after Hickey’s Bar was destroyed by fire in Ishpeming, a holiday project they led for a decade has found another bar to continue the tradition. The event starts at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Venice Pub and Pizzeria.
There will be food, drinks, bands, and auctions. The Salvation Army in Ishpeming has received thousands from each of the events. Money is used to buy gifts for children and many other projects.
“It really is our largest gift to the Salvation Army in Ishpeming except for one other donor,” said Capt. Stephen Hansen, Ishpeming Salvation Army. “Last year this event raised $4,200.”
The donations help with “heating help into January – that’s a big deal,” Capt. Hansen said. “Last year we gave out over $70,000 in heating help through both private and state funding. Lots of people come out to this event, hear goods bands, and put music on to help us continue to assist those in need here.”
The Venice’s owner, Beth Christianson, says she picked up many of Hickey’s customers and is pleased to keep the tradition going. Many Ishpeming businesses have contributed to the annual event. Music coordinator Kurt Gronvall has lined up five local bands and artists including GLC, Centerline, Gerry Kippola, Goldmine Girls, Shannon Wyatt and others.
The Salvation Army uses the money for Christmas baskets and toys. The fun continues to 1:30 Sunday morning.