Preparations for the first — and hopefully only — Floodfest continue as organizers ready for the Aug. 17 fundraiser to support the victims of the ongoing flood in the Yazoo Backwater Area.

Tommy Parker, who is heading up the event, said volunteers are even ramping up their effort to get the word out.

“The Radio People here and in Jackson are assisting with the event and tickets will go on sale Aug. 1,” Parker said.

Country music singer and Vicksburg native William Michael Morgan will be the headliner for Floodfest.

“Michael has graciously agreed to donate his time to come home and help his friends in the Mississippi Delta during this Natural Disaster,” Parker said, adding, “And Mayor George Flaggs Jr. will be on hand to honor Morgan and present him with a key to the city.”

A telethon will run simultaneously, Parker said, and will be streamed over several different platforms.

The family-friendly event will also have children’s activities, food trucks, an auction that will include golf clubs, gift certificates for enhanced concealed carry classes, artwork and a raffle.

“Scott Peavey has generously donated several pieces of handcrafted furniture that will be included in this drawing, which will be held during the telethon,” Parker said. He said raffle tickets are being sold at Levee Street Marketplace and are $20 each or two for $35. Parker also said those items are currently on display at the marketplace.

Also, for those who would like to donate items for the auction, Parker said, to contact Mary Landers at the Levee Street Market Place, 601-638-7191.

All proceeds from the event, Parker said, will be donated to the Warren County Long-range Recovery Committee, which is being administered by the United Way of West Central Mississippi.

“They have formed a committee for this purpose, and I have every confidence that these funds will reach those who truly need them,” Parker said.

Admission to Floodfest is $5 and gates will open at 5:30 p.m. at Redwood Elementary School, 100 Redwood Road.

“Please bring your lawn chairs and plan to spend money throughout the night,” Parker said.

C-Spire, Serve-Pro of Vicksburg-Yazoo, X-Ring Tactical, Farm Bureau, McDonalds (Mike and Melanie Roach-MNM Enterprises), Sunset View Campground and RV Park and Elite Disposal have all joined as sponsors of the event.

Other musicians set to perform are Scott Randall Rhodes and the Mississippi River Band, who will be appearing courtesy of Shirley Waring, and the Vicksburg Blues Society and the Hitmenz presented by Waterview Casino. The McAllister Brothers, Brother Bert Bryant, Ken Hudson and Shayne Weems will also perform, as well as the Sensational Gospel Group and Four Washington.

For more information about Floodfest, call 601-218-1524.