The sun broke through the dark clouds in the early morning May 25, which led many to breathe a sigh of relief.
The second annual music festival was held that day at Leipzig Serenity Retreat, which is a five-week residential drug and alcohol facility. Nine performances were held throughout the day; from Jamie Bell Acoustic, local musician Justin Vany, Rusty Augers, big name Tom Jackson, to Brad Johner and sons, entertaining around 350 guests with toe tapping and hand clapping music along with heartfelt stories.
Guests came from surrounding areas; as well as Saskatoon, Provost, Alta. and even Edmonton, Alta. to take in the event. Brent Loucks, from CKOM Saskatoon, donated his time as MC, from when the doors opened at 11a.m. until the doors closed at around 9 p.m.
"This event is a great way to showcase some of Saskatchewan's finest musicians in a family friendly, alcohol free setting. I believe this event is a great way to raise money for a worthwhile cause while providing entertainment to west central Saskatchewan" says retreat administrator Jacqueline Hoffman.
There was more than just music on site. Vendors were set up outside and the doors to the retreat were open giving guests the opportunity to see the beauty of parts of the building. The building also housed Sunrise Wellness Spa from Unity, who had staff on hand providing spa services throughout the day as well as artists Grace Gerein and Donna Delainey, who filled part of it with a beautiful exhibit of their paintings, both for show and sale. Auctioneer Jack Hills from Big River led an auction at 3:30 p.m., a pause from the music, auctioning off a variety of donated items, which helped raise an additional $3,000 for the day.
The day ran smoothly with all 11 staff members present as well as 45 volunteers pulling together to help at the gates, the concession and with parking. They also pitched in to help the audio crew, Night Owl Entertainment, out of Saskatoon.
The festival is an annual fundraiser for the retreat. All money raised goes to putting someone, who otherwise can't afford the cost of treatment, through the program offered. "It is heart warming to see such support from the surrounding communities for this event. By attending the festival, each and every one is aiding in someone's recovery" says owner Ardyth Clark.
For more information on Leipzig Serenity Retreat please contact 1-306-658-4767.
