Barnstorm 17 was a huge success – the weather was fantastic (again), but it did rain on campers packing up the next day. Audience members and musicians had a wonderful time. Several people have commented that this was the best Barnstorm yet (they always say that) and that this is THE music festival to play (which is true). Again, attendance was good but could always be better.
Thank you to everyone who made this event great including, of course, the bands that made the magic happen. You all played scorching sets!
I want to thank all of the volunteers – I couldn’t do it without you. I may have simplified your contributions for brevity purposes, but please know they were huge. I hope I haven’t forgotten anyone; if I have, I apologize in advance.
Derek Bradshaw for helping out with preparations in areas I cannot describe. Derek was also the guy behind the grand prize raffle of the EVO Brewster fat tire bicycle, courtesy of Sun Mountain Sports.
Jenn Bradshaw as well for her amazing electrical skills and for all her help with Barnstorm preparations. She doubly stepped up to the plate because Derek was down and out due to surgery side effects (we missed you, Derek!). Jenn was the gate and raffle girl and her skills, effort and patience really helped leading up to, during and after the event.
Marc Grondin for doing lights for all the bands.
Geoff McNeely for recording the show. Future thanks to Dave Sarazin who will be doing the editing and mixing.
Dan Foss, the sound guy for the bands.
Big Lou for the free popcorn, giant lounge chair and his 24/7 smile.
Elorious Cain who was our DJ for the night. From all accounts, it was spectacular as expected. Thanks Elorious!
Cindy Wells for her pre- and post-Barnstorm help and, of course, for her wonderful salads and baked goods for the bands.
Thank you to Roy Tubman for also manning the gate, and your support on event day. You are officially a crew member! Thank you!
Special thanks to Dick Alta Vista and Tonya Price for doing another great job as MC’s for the evening. Dick also prepared the delicious Jamaican patties for the bands, and transported the bass amp and drum kit. You were fantastic as always!
Waterloo Brewing for their generous sponsorship of suds for the bands. Thank you Nick Glynn.
Dave’s Drum Shop for the loaner drum kit – thank you!
Spaceman Music for the bass amp – thank you!
Trish Bolechowsky of Red Leaf Music for her assistance on game day, and her financial support.
Country Lane Fine Wood Products for their generous donation.
Marrow and Spice for being on site and serving those who got the munchies throughout the night. I heard nothing but rave reviews.
Thanks to Dylan Hunter and CKCU for the loan of all the extra gear.
Bill Kole for the poster design – again, rave reviews! Thank you!
Thanks to Martha Walsh for salads and desserts for our performers’ hospitality area, and stage direction. It’s always wonderful to have you and Tom (who manned the merch table) with us.
Lastly, I would like to thank my girlfriend/partner/wife Margaret for serving food and her help the day-of, and for putting up with me for the last few weeks, as there were many long nights and early mornings that were spent working on the endless details that needed to be attended to. Thank you Sweetie!
Barnstorm 17 might be over, but I’m already thinking of v. 18!
If you would like to be part of Barnstorm 18, even in its early stages, please let me know. You can stay in touch by joining the Barnstorm Facebook page.
Please feel free to share your Barnstorm photos and memorable moments, and let me know what you thought of Barnstorm 17.
Thank you all for a remarkable weekend.
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