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One Light Town Party a hit
First Saturdays continues to elevate Kimberley’s arts and entertainment scene
By Chris Newel
Kimberley residents, don’t you love it when people ask you for directions and you say, “Go to the traffic lights and,” and they say, which lights? Busted! “We only have one!”
So why not throw a party based on our one traffic light and thank the community for its support during our unsuccessful bid to win Molson Coors One Horse Town Contest.
So that’s what First Saturdays organizers, Kimberley Arts Council, did.
The First Saturday events are very popular in Kimberley with lots going on during the day in the Platzl. In the evening there is an outdoor concert and barbecue held in the Centre 64 parking lot (pictured above).
The Labour Day weekend party, One Light Town Party, was no exception. Over 200 people came to enjoy the party with admission by donation.
The Elks club ran the BBQ and there were refreshments available for all.
The party started with Bud and Stacy Decosse (dad and daughter just to clarify). They sang a number of songs from several decades so there was something for everyone. Ironically the emcee, Darren Shaben, and I were discussing Bruce Springsteen, when Stacy began the Boss’s classic hit, ‘I’m on Fire.’ Well done!
Next up Oak Republic. I’d listened to the CD, but wow, much better live. Again a great selection of tunes, led by Jay Toner on guitar and vocals, Allyson Blake, violin/vocals, Shawn Roberston, mandolin/guitar, Murph Martin, bass/vocals and Michelle Longstaf, drums.
Kimberley Arts Council, the First Saturdays organizers put in a huge amount of time and energy making these events happen. Hats off to them. But also to the sponsors, Molson Coors, The Sullivan Pub, Tourism Kimberley, Alison Walker-Jamer Holdings and the many volunteers who helped out. Over $2,000 was raised which will go to further First Saturdays events.
The next First Saturdays, on Oct. 1, will celebrate Kimberley’s Bavarian past with an Oktoberfest theme.
The kid’s parade is always a hit and for the adults this year, Overtime Beer Works will be organizing a craft beer festival.
If it’s anything like Saturday night or last year it will be awesome, make sure you are there.
Photos by Chris Newel
