Bandit announces Volunteer Relief Action
- Details
“Tennessee has been known as The Volunteer State since The War of 1812, and it was only right that Bandit step up and offer this free support,” said Bandit Lites chair and founder, Michael T. Strickland. “While all Bandit offices are under Safer-At-Home Orders, the entire staff is on full payroll. No one has been laid off at Bandit.
“When individuals are needed to accomplish a task, they are covered by the legal exemptions and the Bandit team jumps in and performs the task at hand.”
As the live entertainment industry went dark on 13 March, Strickland jumped into action. By Saturday he was on the phone with Tennessee Senators Lamar Alexander and Marsha Blackburn working hand in hand all weekend and through the passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
Strickland was representing the interests of everyone in the live entertainment segment, from full time employees to freelancers. The Senators were not completely aware of the fact that the entire industry went to zero revenue in a single moment, and once Sen. Alexander and Sen. Blackburn fully understood the total lack of revenue, coupled with the immediate need for relief, they set about doing their business, with a large amount of input from Strickland.
Long days and late nights were the norm for all parties. This continued through the CARES Act Economic Relief Plan with the goal of a quick, fair relief plan that would easily allow individuals and small business to survive through the next few months with minimal job losses.
As the situation evolves, Bandit will continue to support the communities in need. “America will survive this,” said Strickland. “We are smart, tough and determined. We are working together like we have not since World War II. Those things that do not destroy us make us stronger. If you can provide assistance, do; if you need assistance, ask. We in Tennessee have been volunteers since the 1800’s and we are not stopping now! All Americans must step up and help our fellow men and women. The light looks bright on the other side!”
