Musicians donate to help homeless vets
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(AMERICAN LEGION/LEGIONTOWN)

Mikki Neal, lead singer for SoulFish, and Tom McCoy of the Tommy McCoy Band - members of the Florida Musician Mission Coalition - recently stopped by Dunedin’s American Legion Post 275 to donate $350 for homeless veterans. The money was raised at the 3rd Annual Free Apple Pie 4th of July Benefit Blues Jam held at Bauser’s Bar in Dunedin.

According to Post Commander Sid Damsgard, the donation was unexpected.

“I didn’t realize they were holding this event for us,” he said. “It’s very meaningful that a band we pay to play at the post gives back to veterans in need.”

“All proceeds were collected to help the American Legion Needy Veterans Programs,” said Neal. “We care about our veterans and what they mean to the community.”

SoulFish is one of Post 275’s most popular bands, and they have been performing at the Legion a little more than a year. They are a five-piece cover band that plays a variety of classic rock, R&B, soul and blues, and have a natural ability to read the crowd and if needed adjust the set to keep the audience smiling and the dance floor hopping.

“Their energetic shows keep your toes tapping and fingers snapping,” Damsgard said. "They always get people up and dancing.”

SoulFish frequently plays on the post’s outdoor Freedom Deck along the Pinellas Trail.

“Once you experience a SoulFish show, it will get into your heart and soul and you will want to do it again and again,” said Neal.

(Photo by Sharon Damsgard)