Fundraiser Planned For Fire-Destroyed Long Beach Stores

LONG BEACH, NY — A community is coming together to help two shops ruined by fire. A fundraiser is planned for July 12 to raise money for Sorrento's Italian Specialities and the Abyss Fine Art Tattoo Studio.

The May 26 blaze destroyed both businesses that started at Sorrento's during the overnight hours, firefighters said.

The fundraiser was put together by Megan Casey, owner of the West Beech Street bar Shine's.

"As a small business owner, I felt this," Casey said. "I know how much of your heart and soul goes into making a small business work, and watching it all burn to the ground like that would be like losing a loved one."

Casey is selling advance tickets for the event that will take place at the Anchor Tavern:$60 for general admission and $100 for VIP, which includes an open bar and food.

"We reached out to the Anchor to host the event because Shine’s can’t accommodate the amount of people that want to be there to support these guys," she said. "We’re doing our part by going door-to-door to talk to owners [and] buy a coffee or a beer.

Shine's is also getting sponsors and donations for the raffles, plus they are making posters and promoting the July 12 event on social media. It takes place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

She said those wanting to contribute should reach out to Shine's on Facebook or Instagram.

Casey also helped organize a GoFundMe page for Sorrento's, which has gotten more than $14,000 in donations.