A Meridian business owner hopes an upcoming benefit will  raise awareness about domestic violence.

The fundraiser, set for Friday, June 29 and Saturday, June 30, at Vaporz Bar and Lounge will benefit the family of Marsha Pace, who died Friday night in what police believe was an act of domestic violence. The lounge is located at 3401 North Hills St. in Meridian. 

Organizer Angela Dearman,  part owner of Vaporz Bar and Lounge, said it’s important to help Pace’s family, because they have lost a loved one and to raise public awareness about domestic violence.

“I met Marsha when I was 14 and this has hit me hard,” Dearman said. “I admired her so much and this was just heartbreaking for me to hear, so I wanted to do something that would honor her, and bring awareness to domestic violence – because there are so many people out there who don’t have a voice.”

The benefit will begin around 7:30 Friday night with Daniel Houze, Dustin Pounders and Emily White at 9 with The Fabulous Caleb Martin. Closing out the night will be Batty Pat playing from 10:30 until.

Saturday’s events run from 9 a.m.-until with “Cruise In” music provided by James Hanna. 

The music lineup includes an open spot for a couple or band from 1-3 p.m.; Magnolia Sound Machine from 4-6 p.m.; and Jonathan Womble from 7-9:30 p.m. Noise Water, a New Orleans group featuring William Laird from Meridian, closes out the night.  

The cover charge Friday is $10 and Saturday an all-day cover can be purchased for $25 or $10 per person the night of bands, starting at 5 p.m. All cover charges will be donated to the Pace family. Several items have also been donated for an auction and raffle with proceeds going to the family.

Food will be available on a first come first serve basis both days. Alcoholic and nonalcoholic will be available.

For more information, call Angela Dearman at 601-490-3938 or Vaporz Bar and Lounge on Facebook.