Rock the Kootenays draws crowds, boosts local fundraising

Cranbrook’s Rock the Kootenays music festival ran from August 8 to 10 at Western Financial Place, drawing in music fans for a weekend of Canadian performances.

The lineup included Odds, Streetheart, Honeymoon Suite, Five Man Electrical Band, Men Without Hats, The Trews, 54-40, Haywire, Aaron Pritchett, Sweet, and Colin James.

Amid the music and food trucks, the Rotary Club of Cranbrook operated a three-day 50/50 draw.

Total ticket sales reached $72,265, with nightly winners splitting half the proceeds.

“Half of that went to the three winners, with the prize claimed each night,” said Rotary Club spokesperson Leanne Jensen.

“The rest goes to the Rotary Club, and after expenses, we’ll have a substantial amount to donate to groups in the community.”

Jensen said the money raised at Rock the Kootenays provides the club with flexibility for larger donations.

“In the past, those larger donations have gone to the food bank, Salvation Army, East Kootenay Foundation for Health, and Angel Flight,” she said.

“Looking ahead this year, it’s possible we’ll make a large donation to the Kimberley-Cranbrook Hospice Society.”

The 50/50 draw at Rock the Kootenays is one of several fundraising streams for the club, along with draws at Cranbrook Bucks hockey games and the annual gala.

“We so appreciate the support we get from local businesses and residents,” Jensen said.

“It’s a great opportunity to give back, and we always have fun working together on these projects.”

For more information on The Rotary visit, Cranbrook Rotary.