LANSING (AP) -- A food vendor whose equipment was damaged when union protesters flattened a pro-right-to-work tent outside the Michigan Capitol has received $15,000 in contributions to cover the $400 loss.

The donations owe much to Internet videos and photos of the attack on the tent pitched by Americans for Prosperity.

Thousands protested Tuesday as the Michigan Senate passed legislation to ban unions from collecting mandatory fees from those they represent under collective bargaining agreements.

Clint Tarver says he was trapped inside the tent, and his catering equipment sustained $400 in damage. He runs a Capitol hot dog cart, which wasn't with him.

Lorilea Zabadal works for Republican state Rep. Rep. Al Pscholka of Stevensville and tells The Detroit News she started the online fundraising drive with a $2,000 goal. 

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