Lakeside benefit filled to overflowing

The 9th Annual Lakeside Food Bank Benefit on Sunday was an incredible success, reports organizer, Bill Cropper.

From 5pm until the doors closed at 11, the Lakeside Pub in Invermere was filled to overflowing with music lovers, both locals and visitors. “The musicians were unbelievable”, said Bill. “Each had a completely distinct and individual sound. There was something for every musical taste and everyone went away happy.”

Even Lakeside Pub owner, Guido, and his staff entered enthusiastically into the fun and frivolity of the evening.

After each musical set, the traditional Santa hat was passed around and generous hearts emptied their pockets for a great cause. Jim Labourdais donated a plane flight for 3 to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. A visiting English couple bought that plus bar souvenirs which had been donated by the Lakeside Pub. George and Stella Gray, representing Fairmont Riverside Golf Resort, donated green fee, golf cart and driving range usage, which was bought by Invermere resident, Lucy Miller. The event raised approximately $2700 for the Food Bank.

Bill says people often remark that the annual musical event must be a lot of work and his answer to them is that, aside from the phone calls and the busy day of the event, everyone involved is so enthusiastic about it that it just seems to come together on its own. “It is an opportunity for musicians to play to an audience and a chance for music lovers to experience some really great talent” he said.