HAMLET – Sports Connection in Hamlet was rocking on the night of Saturday, March 24th as dozens came out to enjoy hours of live music and show their support for a local citizen in need.
On March 2nd, 2018 Daniel Branch arrived home to what many would only describe as a nightmare – his entire apartment engulfed in flames. Although the fire departments worked diligently to get the blaze under control and salvage what they could of the structure, the fire was just too powerful and destructive. Branch was then left with no other option than to stand by powerless, while watching his world be reduced to a pile of ash.
But fortunately for Branch, the level of love and support his family displayed for him during this time of need was unparalleled. Aside from providing him an emergency place to stay, basic necessities to get through each day, and unending amounts of emotional support, his family wanted to do more.
“I got back at 3:30 a.m. after the fire and just stared at the ceiling,” stated Franklin Branch, brother to Daniel. “I was trying to think of how to help, and that’s when the idea for the benefit was born.”
And in just weeks, the Branch family was able to transform this idea into a reality.
Stemming from Daniel Branch’s passion for playing music, the primary attraction for the night’s event became the long list of local talent that graced the stage. Bringing down house were the bands Rivers Edge, Simple Things, Doing It Again, Safety Committee, and Back 40/Black Powder.
The sensational set lists of classic rock covers and outstanding originals from these groups helped generate lots of interest from the general public who came out in droves. Their attendance at the per person cover charge of $5 went a long way towards helping the Branch boys reach their goal.
Of course, a night of cold drinks and live music would not be complete without a mouth-watering meal to go with it. Plates of Boston butt, baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw were sold for $7 each and sold out within the first few hours of the night.
As an added element to the night’s festivities, the event organizers worked diligently to secure some amazing raffle prizes which were awarded throughout the night. Everything from haircuts, tanning visits, and manicures to oil changes, a fishing pole, and lawn care services were generously donated by local individuals and business owners.
Overall the event was a total success raising nearly $2,000 for Daniel Branch to begin replacing what he lost almost one month ago.
“I wanted to thank everyone who came out to show some love,” shared Daniel. “It was heartwarming to see so many great people showing their support to help me get back on my feet. I love you all and hope to see everyone in the future.”
