MARION (WSIL) -- Many large gatherings, concerts, and outdoor venues have been canceled due to the Coronavirus since they draw large crowds and it's difficult to social distance.
The Event Industry was one the first groups of businesses to close nation-wide, impacting more than 12 million people whose work contributes more than $1 trillion to the U.S. economy each year.
The industry is issuing a "Red Alert" now that more than 70% of its workers no longer have a job.
On Tuesday, a nationwide call on Congress to move forward with the RESTART Act will take place with thousands in the industry lighting up the night skies in red.
A Marion business that took a hit as events everywhere were canceled is taking part in Tuesday's event. Midwest Music Supply owner Chris Parton says it is more than the Events Industry needing Congress to pass the Act.
The bill extends the Paycheck Protection Program, provides support for small businesses and guaranteed loans with possible forgiveness "up to the amount of total losses incurred."
"We're lighting up buildings, lighting up our stages, just lighting anything up red, kind of as an awareness to get Congress to see that our industry is still hurting, there are no events currently, and really no foreseeable end in the near future," explains Parton, adding that Midwest Music Supply is surviving the pandemic through other aspects of its business.
The business owner will be in the Marion Mall parking lot Tuesday from 7 to 10 p.m. with stages, lights and sound equipment. He is inviting local lawmakers to join him in this awareness campaign.
