It’s half-way to New Year’s Eve … are you ready to celebrate? Chilliwack band Lost & Loaded is, and they want you to join the party!
The third annual Half Year’s Eve lights up the Tractorgrease Café Saturday, June 30, all in support of the Xolhemet Society’s Wilma’s Transition House.
“It’s a real grassroots event,” says Lost & Loaded founding member Jason Filek. “Music is a passion for us and it’s fun to see people enjoying it. If we can give back by raising money and awareness for a great local organization, it’s a great opportunity.”
Founded in 2012 by co-workers at Baker Newby Lawyers to entertain at the staff Christmas party, the Lost & Loaded musicians “had such a good time doing it we wanted to keep going, but thought we’d try to raise some money for charity,” Jason says.
A friend was working for the local transition house, and knowing the work they do for the community, it was a pretty easy choice, he says.
Rock on to give back
The event has raised about $7,500 in the first two years, with funds from last year’s event matching a donation from Riverside Equipment Rentals to create a women’s bursary, gifted to three local women who are continuing or starting their post-secondary education.
With Baker Newby also on board as a sponsor this year, the Xolhemet Society aims to continue its bursary support.
Playing a full range of rock ‘n roll, from the Beatles to the Black Keys, there’s a special focus on the ’90s that audiences enjoy – think Tragically Hip, Counting Crows and Oasis. “Each year we get more people out. It’s a lot of fun,” Jason says. “It’s about giving back to the community and doing good with your hobbies.”
With a full night of fun planned, Jason’s brother, professional musician Paul Filek, will also take the stage and of course, the café’s own Tractorgrease Folk, featuring owner Jeff Bonner, with original folk-rock favourites. All three bands are donating their time to the event.
In addition to great music, Tractorgrease’s food and beverage service will be available throughout the evening. “We’re lucky to be able to partner with them – there’s nothing else like it in the Fraser Valley,” Jason says.
Get your tickets today!
Doors for Lost & Loaded’s Half Year’s Eve at The Tractorgrease Café open at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 30, with music starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance from Eventbrite and $30 at the door.
To purchase tickets with cash please contact Jayme at 604-997-5833 or by email at jaymeclifford@outlook.com