Local bands turn out for McNelis benefit

The benefit concert "Rock Out for Jason McNelis" will be presented from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South.

McNelis, 29, died in a car accident July 24. A flatbed truck, going the opposite direction as McNelis' vehicle, crossed a rock median before hitting McNellis' truck.

The concert is designed to raise awareness for the need of barriers along Summerlin Parkway, where the accident occurred.

Hosted by Laurie Steele of KOMP-FM 92.3, the concert will feature performances by local bands Corner Stone, Kid Deposit Triumph, The Ill Figures, Otherwise, the Meadows Burn, All My Suffering and the Driftwood Prophets.

McNelis, a Las Vegas resident since 1991, was a former drummer of Corner Stone.

"Jason knew a lot of the local bands and they have been so supportive," said Jennifer Poyer, McNelis' sister. "They all pulled together to do this for him."

McNelis is survived by his 2-year-old son, Chaz, and wife, McKenzie, who is six-months pregnant with their second son, to be named Jet Jason Michael.

"Jason was the most amazing person," Poyer said. "He touched so many people and that is why so many people are reaching out."

The concert is sponsored by Starborn Tattoo, of which McNelis was a partner, Emergency Room Lounge, Cheyenne Saloon, Money Plays, MDV Entertainment, Blue Print, KOMP-FM and KXTE-FM 107.5.

The benefit concert also will feature a drawing. Donations can be made to The Jason McNelis Donation Fund at any U.S. Bank.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10. Call the House of Blues at 632-7600 for tickets.