Those who've visited or spend significant time on the island of St. John totally understand why it's affectionately known as "Love City."

Unfortunately, the Category 5 winds and water of Hurricane Irma slawed St. John, and the island is devastated. On Saturday at Silver Oak at Mystic Indoor Sports, a "Lift Up Love City" benefit takes place. With a silent auction, basket auction, cornhole, drinks, hors d'oeuvres and more, the evening promises to be highly entertaining in support of a fine cause.

Oh, and music fans are in for a treat. Local native Darin Keech, a fine solo singer-songwriter — and a seasonal resident of St. John — will perform in conjunction with violinist Ashley Jones. From May to October, Keech owns and operates Poet's Lounge Sailing Charters; from November to April he runs a sailing business in St. John and plays music three nights a week.

Keech had insurance and will replace his boat and reopen in St. John in the spring. "I'm not looking for financial help but many of my friends on the island still need necessary provisions to survive and rebuild," he writes. "I'd like to do my part."

This is a fine and fun way for the rest of us to help, as well. All proceeds go to two non-profit organizations: Kenny Chesney's "Love for Love City" and St. John Rescue.

Lift Up Love City, 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Silver Oak at Mystic Indoor Sports, 90 Welles Road, Mystic; $10 door; Facebook Lift Up Love City.