(Cue the Chicago!) "Saturday, in the Park…"
Despite the forecast calling for patchy clouds, strong winds and a chance of rain, it was a 100% chance of fun and enjoyment for those at the annual Concert at The Park. The weather Gods smiled down on the organizers of the Concert at The Park. As each new musical artist took the stage, the sky cleared and the wind gradually died down.
Attendees were treated to free live music entertainment by local artists (Ambam & Da’ Man, Michelle Boudreau, Ida Henderson, Kris Desjarlais and Family, Brad Johnson & The Talent, Matt Cory & Cy, Man & Toy, and Full Flannel Jacket wrapped up the evening with a set full of Can-Con covers. All musical acts donated their time for the event and for the love of performing live in front of an audience. Terry Ross from TNT Productions provided sound for the performers and helped keep things running as smoothly and on time as possible. Brandon’s online classic rock station The Spark – Web radio That Rocks! (www.sparkwebradio.com) played in between breaks and various PA announcements.
The green space that stretches nearly a block toward the south of the Community Centre building was utilized for a Kids' Zone with a bouncy castle, face painting, and other kid’s activities. A local market was also set up for local artisans to sell their creations. Board members took turns serving burgers at the cash BBQ which was perfectly situated at the far south side of the green space thus preventing any flare-ups and grill smoke from blowing into the crowd.
While previous events at the Park Community Centre served as fundraisers to help prevent the venue from being demolished and subsequently restored, this Concert at the Park was more of a celebration. The venue is still standing thanks to the Board of Directors' due diligence and never-say-die attitude to save the Park. Not only did they prevent the demolition of the 63-year-old building, but the board was happy to announce they’ve secured funding to prepare for the next stage of restoration. Artist renditions of the new and improved Park Community Centre were displayed inside the building while the music played outside the venue. Board President Ken Friedrichs mentioned the start date for the rebuild is slated for the spring of 2025. The new rendition of Park Community Centre will include a new kitchen and a day-care.
Here are some pictures of the event. (All photos submitted)
Early afternoon crowd at The Park.
Am Bam & Da' Man kicked-off the afternoon by performing a set of originals.
Da' Man lays down the backbeat on the congas for Am Bam and Da' Man's set at The Park.
Michelle Boudreau performed a set of storytelling tunes complete with crowd participation.
Park Community Centre board members Doug Sullivan and Don Burnett take a break to smile for the camera while they run the T-Shirt booth.
Ya gotta love the classic rock mix on The Spark!
Great day for a bouncy castle!
Cy (left) and Matt (right) treat the crowd to a set of their originals and a few cover tunes.
Kris Desjarlais (left) and Company perform a set of covers mixed with some First Nation flair.
Brandon's Full Flannel Jacket rocked out during a high-energy set comprised of 100% Canadian cover tunes.
Artist renditions of two concepts for the Park rebuild. The new facility will include a day-care and a new kitchen. (Photos submitted)
To arrange rental of the facility please call Eldon Schmitz at (204) 441-6504 or email Eschmitz@wcgwave.ca. For more info visit parkcommunitycentre.ca
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