From www.countryschatter.com

You hear things like this every day. But no matter how many times I put up a post about a benefit concert, benefit auction, or someone who is just giving a little time to someone who needs them – I'm always impressed. Now I can add Alan Jackson to that always-growing list of people who have totally impressed me with their generosity.

Alan has announced that the proceeds from  his May 22, 2010, show at the Civic Center in Charleston, W.Va., will be donated to the families of the minors who lost their lives in the Upper Big Branch Mining Disaster in Montcoal on April 5. Twenty-nine minors died making it the country's worst mining accident in 40 years.

All of the proceeds from Alan's show will be given to the Montcoal Mining Disaster Fund, which is administered by the West Virginia Council of Churches.

Joe Manchin, governor of West Virginia, made the following statement after hearing of Alan's donation:

"This is a very wonderful donation from Alan and, on behalf of our state, I'm honored for our miners, their families and the rescue workers," said West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin. "Alan is a world-famous entertainer who has never forgotten his small-town roots and the importance of family. And I'm sure our miner families will really appreciate this opportunity to enjoy a great show."

Alan 274 "We are thrilled that Alan Jackson, an entertainer who sings about the working family, has committed his upcoming show in Charleston to the families of the fallen miners at the Upper Big Branch mine," said The Rev. Dennis Sparks, Ex. Dir. WV Council of Churches. "On Behalf of the Montcoal Mining Disaster Fund, thank you Alan and we look forward to a great concert in West Virginia."

Alan 275 I wouldn't want to venture a guess at the expenses associated with putting on a concert. You rent the facility, hire people to drive the trucks, set up the equipment, run the sound and lights. You pay back-up musicians, your PR people, your management group, back-up singers, pay for advertising to let everyone know you're on the way. And, you work hard. Tickets will be sold, lots of tickets, and after the money is collected and everything is paid, all the proceeds remaining will be donated to this very worthwhile cause. And you know what? I believe that is going to be a lot of month. Thank you, Alan Jackson.

If you'd like to catch Alan on his current tour, and need to know when he's coming near you – check out his web site, he's got the schedule there for all of us to go over and make our plans.

More soon! You guys enjoy your Saturday! And write to me, there are a few of you I haven't heard from for a while.
Take care!
Country