“When it’s something you care about. You fight, you fight until you win.” (Raccoon)

 

 

What does it mean to be the town’s treasure? That means providing a safe place for all to call home base. The famed Juke Joint is much more than just a bar; it has been a major hub for live music & entertainment, amazing eats, a loving atmosphere, and our beloved raccoons for more than a decade.

 

My name is Joel Kinney. I'm here to help my friends Guido and Trench achieve their goal of purchasing the land their business sits on to preserve the name, the 100-year-old house, and of course the raccoons. Our goal is to raise $50,000; with the help of our community, patrons, and friends, I'm sure we can rise to the challenge and keep The Juke Joint alive and strong for many years to come.

 

A brief description of our two fearless leaders. Guido & Trench (Robert McDonald) have served our country, one being in the United States Army and the other in the United States Navy; both have continued on to create loving families and respectful careers post-military. Then! They buy the Famed Juke Joint with the quest to continue to serve the community with one kick-ass bar / Venue and have been doing so beautify since. I've never known two more involved and concerned with their community; Guido is the big brother to half the town. You could throw a rock down Government Street and will most likely hit someone who has dealt with him; he is also the coach of the high school powerlifting team and has been shaping young minds for years. I couldn't think of another duo that deserves a helping hand; that's why I jumped at the opportunity to help my friends.

 

I've included a Statement from Robert McDonald (Owner).

 

"A little over four years ago, my brother and I purchased The Juke Joint, and we have been successfully running it since. On May 1st, 2021, our landlord informed us that he would be putting the property up for sale. We are excited and eager to purchase this property. However, he has listed it at $1.25 million. We are devastated that we cannot afford this amount. We have contacted several financial institutions and have been given an estimate on our approved loan amount. The landlord is seeking a developer to demolish the building and build mixed-use condos, and the legacy of Ms. Mezo and The Juke Joint will be gone forever."

 

 

 

The Juke Joint is a late-night, live music venue specializing in local, regional, and national performances. We are an award-winning venue, with awards such as

 

We've also been nominated for more than 50 awards over the past four years including the 3rd Best Live Music Venue in all of Mississippi by the Clarion-Ledger. We are grateful for these awards. However, it wouldn't be possible without our patrons and team. Our staff is top-notch, comprised of mothers, Veterans, best friends and cool Aunts who all love servicing the community and creating the staple of what Southern Hospitality and Family means.

 

We are seeking the help of our wonderful community, friends, family, and our patrons. We all love the trees and atmosphere here at The Juke Joint and want to continue to support Live Music and the city of Ocean Springs. Please help the staff, musicians, service industry and of course, the raccoons. Thank you all for your time and continued support. SAVE THE JUKE JOINT!

 

"Come as a stranger, leave as family" -Robert McDonald

 

All of the funds from this campaign will go towards the conservation of the Juke Joint.

 

For more information, please visit our website (www.msjukejoint.com)

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