Community Steps Up to Assist Injured Musician Merrill

By Don Manley

The Goodland community and friends from near and far turned out in large numbers during the day-long Merrill Fest benefit held at Goodland’s Little Bar Restaurant.

Goodland musician Merrill Allen, who has entertained at the Little Bar since 1993, sustained second-degree burns over 60 percent of his body in a September 7 propane explosion on his boat, which was docked at the

Old Barge Marina in Goodland.

Allen returned home recently after being treated at Tampa General Hospital Regional Burn Center. But he still faces a long road in recovering from his injuries.

Merrill Fest was the brainchild of Little Bar owner Niki Bauer, who was assisted by other Goodland residents and businesses in organizing the fundraiser and selling tickets for the 50-50 and pop-up raffles. The

event also included a silent auction at Merrill Fest, which was held October 11.

Featured at the 10-hour long event was live music by provided by a multitude of local musicians, including Merrill Allen’s brother Jim, Ryan Darling, Konnie, Raiford Starke, Joerey Ortiz, Billy J & The Big Easy, and Taylor Freydberg.

Donations can also be sent to: Benefit for Merrill Allen, P.O. Box 653, Goodland, FL 34140