It has been a dervish of whirlwind events for JJ's management, owners and employees, since the fateful gas explosion February 19, 2013, on the Country Club Plaza. And now almost 2 weeks later the fervor to make positive changes, out of very negative, and heart-wrenching events, that have culminated into 1 fatality, plus, about 18 injured from the gas explosion at JJ's restaurant, was self-evident this evening. With the tireless organizational efforts of Jim Ligon (bartender JJ's), and KC's outpouring, along with JJ's Staff Assistance volunteers, they steamrolled this fundraiser for employees. It was hosted by Larry Sells(Owner) of the historic Uptown Theater. And at last count over 1,800 attendees and over $50,000.00 dollars was raised, not including the monies from the "silent action" that was held.
Examiner.com interviewed several KC "business movers and shakers" in the overflowing VIP area. Which had magnificent cuisine cooked & contributed by 10 of Kansas City's most prestigious Chefs and 50 area restaurants. Examiner.com talked with the Owner of JJ's, Mr. Jimmy Franzte, as to how he was holding up from the loss of his restaurant, death of Megan Cramer and the maiming of some of his staff management and employees? Jimmy stated, " as I stand here tonight and see all the work that went into getting this event pulled together, so quickly, and the overflow attendance, it shows again Kansas City is a very caring and giving city." "And I'm proud to call everyone involved "my family!"
The rundown of the evenings events were emceed by the beautiful, witty and bright Ms. Kelly Jones, Co-Anchor of KCTV-5's Better TV, and former wide receiver of the KC Chiefs/business owner Eddie Kennison. Jim Ligon recognized a young boy, Tarin, for his thoughtfully written letter and gift from his own savings, to help in the re-building of a new JJ's Restaurant. There were many entities that volunteered their expertise in this fundraiser, from media coverage from KMBC-TV9, KCTV-5, WDAF Fox-4, Kansas City Star, Examiner.com/CBS News Local to Naien Photography, David Letts Photography, Gary Becker Photography and Blackberry Castle Photography, all were involved to make sure the video/picture word was disseminated to as many mainstream and social media outlets, where possible. For more detailed info "click" here.
If you have any concerns, comments, questions, or answers, don't hesitate to contact Reggie Banks,Sr. at reelknightstm@gmail.com. And if you would like to continue to receive "free" Business Event newsletters, just click the "subscribe" button above. As always, "thank you" for your patronage. Copyright(C) BCP 1994-2013 All Rights Reserved to Reggie Banks,Sr. and Blackberry Castle Photography and trademarks to each listed respective owner.
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