First Saturdays are well underway in Kimberley for 2014, with the next planned for July 5. The Kimberley Arts Council, which is the driving force behind the First Saturday events, is always looking for ways to raise a few more funds to provide even more in the way of entertainment.
While grants applied for by the Arts Council cover some expenses, Carol Fergus from the Arts Council says a silent auction is planned for July 5, to raise fundsto help pay for musicians.
“Musicians are the draw,” Fergus said. “It’s the excitement that helps draw people to the Platzl to see everything else that is going on.”
First Saturday volunteers are asking local businesses, and anyone else willing to donate, to provide some items for the auction.
“The auction will be in the Platzl from 10 to 3:30,” Fergus said. “And there’s a Rotary pancake breakfast at 9.”
If you have auction items for donation or want to help out in any way, call or email Carol Fergus 250-427-2258 or davecar@telus.net or Kimberley Arts Council–Centre 64 at 250-427-4919 or kimberleyarts@telus.net
The August First Saturday on August 2 will also have a fundraising element, this time organized by Jim Webster of the Kootenay Orienteering Club. Webster is planning the Dusty Downhill, a walk or run from the top of the ski hill to the Platzl.
KAR will have the chairlift running for the morning to get you to the mountain top. Registration is $25 in advance, $30 on the day. This includes your lift ticket. Kids under 12 are $5, which will cover the cost of lunch.
The hike from top of the mountain to the Platzl is 10 km, utilizing local trails, including the Peak to Platzl. The idea is to arrive at the Platzl in time for lunch and the start of the live music. All proceeds will be donated to the First Saturday cause. It all gets underway at 9 a.m. for the hike and 10 a.m. for those who wish to run.