To observe the first anniversary of the devastation of Hurricane Ian, the Charity Pros will hold their “Hurricane Heroes” All-Star Concert event on Saturday, Oct. 7 at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers.
Internationally acclaimed rock band Matchbox Twenty will headline the event bringing their decades of smash hits that have dominated the radio airwaves and charts, garnering multiple Grammy Award nominations, producing billions of streams, and selling over 40 million records. Their hits include “3AM,” “Push,” “Unwell,” “Bent,” “If You’re Gone” and “She’s So Mean.” Matchbox Twenty band members include Rob Thomas, Brian Yale, Paul Doucette and Kyle Cook. Matchbox Twenty will hit the stage at 8:30 p.m.
Special guest, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member, and four-time Grammy winner Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles for over 27 years, will also be taking the stage. The co-writer of “Hotel California” will perform all his greatest hits. Don Felder is scheduled to perform at 7:15 p.m.
Just added to the stellar lineup is long-time Jimmy Buffett band member Mac McAnally. The singer-songwriter will perform at 4:45 p.m.
“This event will bring the community together to help honor heroes of Hurricane Ian,” says Megan Maloney, founder of the Charity Pros. “In addition to the heroism of our brave first responders saving the lives of thousands of people and animals, there are so many incredible stories of regular folks, unsung heroes, that have exhibited incredible acts of humanity, kindness and generosity over this past year.”
SW Florida rock band Red Hannah will kick off their all-star set at 6:15 p.m., featuring special appearances by local professional musicians Matty Jolie, Sheena Brook and more surprises. Jay Allen of NBC’s The Voice is also scheduled to perform at 6 p.m. Proceeds from this special event will help support Music aLive SWFL, the Tabarrini Children’s Outreach Foundation, and the Charity Pros “Megan’s Wish” program.
Hurricane Ian destroyed over 5,000 homes, wiped out hundreds of businesses, including over 30 live music venues, and severely damaged tens of thousands of homes.
“You don’t want to miss this incredible show; it will be a very special tribute to many that have sacrificed and suffered from this storm,” says Brad Maloney, vice president of operations and events for the Charity Pros. “It has been many years since there has been a concert on the field at Hammond Stadium; we are very proud to be working together with the Mighty Mussels organization and Lee County Parks and Recreation to bring this show to the community for a great cause.”
Local heroes will be honored at the concert on Oct. 7. Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office were recognized as heroes for their efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, particularly the work in coordinating the Lee County Sheriff’s Office with outside agencies and search and rescue missions that took place after the storm’s devastation.
Mayor Dan Allers of Fort Myers Beach has been named a hero for his work in the development and recovery of Fort Myers Beach.
Ed and Kim Ryan, founders of Beach Talk Radio, assisted in raising more than $300,000 for Fort Myers Beach.
Pastors Shawn and Mallie Critser of Beach Baptist Church were recognized for establishing their church as a central resource and a disaster recovery center for FEMA, then turning it into a long-term recovery resource center.
Doug Miller and Amy Eldridge, owners of FK Your Diet, have been named heroes for providing more than 500,000 meals and countless truckloads of supplies to those affected by Ian.
“There are so many stories and unsung heroes out there. We will try to honor all we can at the concert event,” said Brad Maloney. “An event like this takes an entire community coming together. Our goal is to make the public aware that Hurricane Ian relief efforts are ongoing, and this isn’t over, so many folks still need help.”
A preconcert celebration will be held in the stadium parking lot from 2:30 – 4 p.m. and features live music by Flip Flop Dave as he pays tribute to Jimmy Buffett.
For tickets and more info, go to www.thecharitypros.org
