This summer’s fourth annual event in Coombs features locals
Plans are underway for the fourth annual Double R Barr FanJam in Coombs this summer and organizers are looking for more bands, vendors, volunteers and sponsors.
Double R Barr is a seven piece country band based out of Coombs, made up of vocalist Laura-Lee and her husband Adrian Blake as well as Mark Desauliners and a host of other talented musicians.
The FanJam event started out as a surprise party for Adrian that turned into a celebration of music and friends. Three years ago about 100 people showed up and a bit of money was raised for the food bank. Last year 440 people showed up and they raised $7,000 for the B.C. Children’s Hospital.
This year they hope to relocate to the Coombs Rodeo Grounds and at least double the amount of people, with their sights set at raising around $20,000 for the B.C Children’s Hospital.
“We decided maybe it’s time to harness that energy and take it off-site and go large,” said Adrian. “My motto this year is go large or go home.”
Not only has Laura spent time in the B.C Children’s Hospital but Adrian said after raising four healthy children, the couple is very lucky and enthusiastic about raising money for families that weren’t as fortunate.
Although still in the early stages of planning, the event will happen over a weekend in mid-July. There will be numerous live bands playing everything from folk to metal, a Karaoke idol competition, an open jam, and kids can visit Sunny the Bear from the Children’s Hospital.
Bands interested in performing can send Laura a promotional pack at laura@rrbarr.com. Vendors, sponsors and volunteers contact can also e-mail Laura.
Keep abreast of the FanJam developments by visiting lauraleeblake.com or by visiting the Facebook page: Double R Barr Annual FanJam 2011.