Russ Abbott is good enough to write in with a recap from his Ink & Dagger Tribute to Tradition fundraiser.  As the post title states, 32 people turned out and waited patiently for up to eight hours to get “Americana” tattoos and contribute over $1500 to Operation Homefront – an organization set up to help the families of the National Guard and Reservists.

The goal was originally 30 tattoos and the four artists (Abbott included) ended up doing 32 over course of the day, so it sounds like they more than fulfilled their quota!  Plus,tickles me is that Russ reports that a couple folks came in after seeing the posting on Decatur Metro! I love that sort of feedback!

Sounds like a great success!  Same time next year?

See Russ’ full release in the continuation…

DECATUR – Despite the muggy heat and plethora of events taking place on the Fourth of July, dozens turned out for the Ink & Dagger Tribute to Tradition fundraiser. The Decatur tattoo shop – owned and operated by Russ Abbott – hosted the charity event for Operation Homefront – an organization set up to help the families of the National Guard and Reservists. Abbott noted, “we thought: what better way to celebrate our Nation’s independence than to honor and support those who help to preserve it!?” Patrons formed a line early and waited patiently to be tattooed by one of the shop’s resident-, and visiting guest-artists, who tattooed 32 people by day’s end. In keeping with the spirit of Independence Day, the shop offered a selection of traditional Americana tattoo designs, some dating as far back as the early 1900′s. Abbott adds: “Since the Civil War, soldiers have used tattoos as a way of celebrating heroic feats in battle or commemorating their fallen brothers. This was our way of paying tribute to the legends of yesterday and heroes of today.” In all, the skulls, roses, daggers, swallows – and of course – American flags, helped to raise over $1,500 for Operation Home Front. And while the crew – comprised of Abbott, Michael “Shack” Shackelford, Jason Kelly, and visiting artist Christian Ratchford – were exhausted by the end of this record-day, they were proud to have raised money for a noble cause while doing what they enjoy best. Abbott summed up the day noting, “it was beautiful to see all these people turn out and wait in line for up to 8 hours to celebrate their heritage, continue a tradition, and contribute to helping out their fellow Americans in need – that’s what holidays should be all about.”
For more information please visit the shop’s website at www.inkanddaggertattoo.com