On the evening of Friday July 29, an audience of close to 150 people at the Village Inn were treated to some fabulous original local area musical entertainment and for a good cause as well. Proceeds from admission by donation going to the Red Cross BC Fire Appeal to help those displaced and impacted by the devastating wildfires in B.C.
The Project Fire Break event was the brainchild of musician Steve Regnier who offered to play and inspired other local talents calling “musicians of Vanderhoof” to get involved. The response was immediate. “We started calling around and the uptake was overwhelming,” said Tom Bulmer.
“We have the equipment. All you’ll need is instruments,” he said “Any money will go to fire evacuees, through the Red Cross.”
Steve Regnier “is quite the guy.” He played professionally and appeared on the Canadian Talk Show “The Mike Bullard” show years ago. He builds guitars and sells them all over.
Samial Holden was another performer, a local who’s making a name for himself on the professional scene. Holden won a singer/songwriter contest in Prince George. He goes on to represent this area in the Road to Rockin’ River Music Fest Finals in Merrit on Thursday, August 3. If Sam wins there he will open for “The Band Perry” and receive a recording contract.
Rosewood’s Diary was there too. They’re yet another very talented local group, a successful band with home grown roots.
The sound quality was right up there with contributions from Kevin Moutray, James Iannone and others adding their equipment to the comprehensive sound mix. Steve Regnier had at least five mics set up for vocals too.
Donations were sitting at $1,005.00 on Sunday evening as more funds flowed in from supporters who weren’t able to attend.
The artist list in order of appearance for 30 minute sets included:
Kevin Schmidt
Rick Romain &friends (Janet Romain)
Samial Holden
Rosewood’s Diary (Gregory Ventin)
Gee Gee’s Rhythm Band
James, Kathy, &Steve (James Iannone)
Steve Regnier &Band
Al Troove Trio
