News Photo by Steve Schulwitz The Alpena Fire Department gives a lift to an insurance inspector on Friday to help survey the damage to the Thunder Bay Theatre caused by a fire at the adjacent John A. Lau Saloon, which burned down on Tuesday.

ALPENA — Residents and businesses have joined forced to launch a fundraiser for Jon Benson, owner of the historic John A. Lau Saloon demolished by fire earlier this week.

The fundraising campaign, Alpena Strong–For Jon, launched today with a social media campaign, the group announced in a news release. The group aims to raise money to help Benson and his employees.

Benson, who also owns J.J.’s Steakhouse and J.J.’s Catering and Rental, purchased the iconic saloon in 2018 and began extensive renovations, reopening the134-year-old building in the spring of 2019. The building was destroyed by a fire on the day before it was set to reopen following the COVID-19-related shutdown.

“Jon is often one of the first on the scene during tragic events in the community,” Alpena Police Chief Joel Jett was quoted as saying in the press release. “He shows up to make sure our first responders have food, water, whatever they need. Jon supports an endless number of youth activities, charitable organizations, schools and so much more. It’s our turn to step up and give back to thank him for all he has done for Alpena.”

“For many years, Jon has put the needs of our community at the forefront of his actions and it would be hard to find someone that hasn’t been positively impacted by his generosity,” Brad Somers, Boys and Girls Club of Alpena executive director, was quoted as saying in the release. “His selfless nature resonates in everything that he does, and his integrity, hard work and passion make our community a better place to live and grow. The Club, staff and members will all be rallying behind Jon in his moment of need.”

Donations to Alpena Strong–For Jon can be dropped off at Target Alpena Economic Development Corp., 235 W. Chisholm St. Make checks payable to Target Alpena with a note in the memo: Alpena Strong–For Jon.

Online donations may be made by visiting https://www.gofundme.com/f/alpena-strong-for-jon.

Specialty Alpena Strong–For Jon merchandise will be available at Family Enterprise beginning next week, with proceeds benefitting the fundraiser.

Local business owners interested in donating products or services should contact Jennifer Calery at jcalery@gmail.com.