The Kimberley Elks Lodge #90 is currently in the process of a bit of a revamp, and to help welcome in the community and raise a bit of money towards some ongoing upgrades to the space, they are hosting a concert with two local bands on Saturday, May 10.
"Both bands are playing with no cover, which is really, really kind," said Lounge manager Paige Ashton. "And they're doing it with voluntary donation to the Elks. We're not asking people that they have to donate, it will be donate what you can."
Ashton said they're in the process of rebranding the bar, lounge space as the Elks Social House. While the Lodge is still the home of the Kimberley Elks Club, Ashton wants the general public to know that everyone, not just Elks members, are welcome.
Any money raised on Saturday will go towards renovations of the building. Ashton said they've just recently installed new flooring behind the bar and they are looking to repaint the place, do some work to the ceilings and just generally update the space.
"We're looking to bring more people in and do a bit of a revamp, that's the long-term goal here," Ashton added. "Obviously the Elks does a lot in the community, providing support, resources and volunteers to numerous organizations, including Angel Flight. So that's the goal, we're just very grateful to the bands to do this and hopefully it will be super busy."
Immediately after the Meat Draw, which runs from 5:30-6:30 p.m., the music will begin, starting with Rogue Tassel. This country duo is made up of locals Kurtis Myers and Ryan Peterson, who you may recognize from Alderbash, another legendary local outfit.
Rogue Tassel will play both original songs and outlaw country classics, including from favourites such as Dwight Yoakum and Willie Nelson.
Next up is high-energy five-piece folk ensemble Fyfe Williams, who are sure to get the dance floor packed and moving. They've been performing in and around Kimberley a lot frequently and always enthusiastically engage with the crowd as they pick their way through original tunes, folk classics and their own covers of tunes from bands like the Dropkick Murphys.
Music will go until around 11 p.m., perhaps even a little later. Ashton noted there will likely be donations set up around the space, and there will be a drink special to help bolster the fundraiser as well.
Come on down to the Elks Social House for a night of excellent local music, all while supporting an invaluable local institution.
