On Saturday, August 30, our peaceful Cashiers came alive as nearly 800 people packed Brookings Anglers and The Blue Line Bar for the inaugural Brookings Bash—a sold-out benefit concert supporting Hurricane Helene survivors through Transylvania County’s Habitat for Humanity.
The idea began with a simple vision: build community through music. “When my business partner Stephen Zoukis and I built the new store, we envisioned adding an entertainment element to the fly fishing business,” said Matt Canter, co-owner of Brookings. “The Blue Line Bar was meant to be a place where outdoors-loving folks could hang out, have a drink, and meet others.”
Weekend live music quickly became a tradition. Among the regulars were Chris and Jennifer Douglass, Billy Catlin, and Patrick Hurley—friends who dreamed up something bigger: an outdoor concert with a bluegrass twist that could raise money for a meaningful cause.
They didn’t just dream it—they funded it. Backed by their businesses—Proper Real Estate Advisors, Crossroads Property Management, and Widespread Logistics—they secured a powerhouse lineup: Jupiter Coyote, Balsam Range, and Canon Tyler. Essential Power joined in, donating services to help bring the event to life.
“This spring, we decided all proceeds would benefit Hurricane Helene survivors,” said Canter. “Transylvania County was hit harder than Jackson County—neighbors helping neighbors.”
The timing couldn’t have been more urgent. “Months after Hurricane Helene, many of our neighbors are still living with unsafe, storm-damaged homes. The needs are urgent—from roof and flooring repairs to replacing homes, home elevations, electrical and plumbing repairs, and safe temporary and long-term housing. Habitat’s remaining cost for this work is expected to eclipse $3M. Continued support ensures we can stabilize families now and help them rebuild for the long term,” said Angie Hunter, Executive Director of Transylvania County’s Habitat for Humanity.
Despite limited event experience, the team pulled off a seamless celebration of music, community, and generosity. “You should see the group text chain,” Canter laughed. “It’s pretty impressive.”
The result? $200,000 raised—funds already at work repairing homes, relocating families, and jump-starting new Habitat builds.
“I got one complaint,” Canter joked. “Someone said the music was too loud from a mile away. I told him—it’s only going to be bigger and louder next year.”
Brookings Bash is now more than a concert—it’s a tradition in the making.
Favorites Count: 0