The “Boogie at the Barn” will begin at 4 p.m. and will be held at the late John Simmons’ barn, located at 185 Morgan Road.
According to Grant Pirkle, organizer of the event, this is the second year of the fundraiser and all proceeds go toward operations of the proposed home.
Simmons was a veteran and advocate for the establishment of a veterans home to be built in Bradley County.
“I’m not trying to fill his shoes,” Pirkle said. “We are just continuing the work to help the people he was so passionate about.”
Simmons was Pirkle’s stepfather.
“John was dedicated to this project and helping veterans,” Pirkle added.
Pirkle said after the home is built, it will cost about $2 million for the first year of operations.
He also said the event fundraiser will continue each year, becoming an annual event which will benefit the Southeast Tennessee Veterans Home.
“We have constructed a permanent bandstand and have spoken with a number of Nashville recording artists in hopes of getting these people involved in the benefit,” Pirkle said. “So far, we have had some great feedback and in the future, we believe these folks will join our local entertainers to help raise money for this great cause.”
Crosstown Traffic, Dexter Thomas and the Collins Brothers bands are scheduled to perform.
Food will be provided by local veterans organizations.
Last year, Pirkle said approximately 500 people attended the Boogie at the Barn.
“We would love to see the support of the community and double that figure this year and keep it growing,” Pirkle added.
The Southeast Tennessee Veterans Home will provide service for Bradley, Sequatchie, Marion, Bledsoe, Meigs, Hamilton, Roane, Loudon, McMinn, Polk and Monroe counties.
For additional information, contact Grant Pirkle at 421-2162 or Richard Huffman at 244-1125.
