by Betty Heis
LITTLE CURRENT—The gazebo on Water Street in Little Current beside the cenotaph was the scene of many enjoyable evenings on Friday nights over the past summer as a ‘Country Jam’ featuring many local musicians have gathered to play music and sing, all to the delight of the many audience members who gather to listen.
Organized by George and Lynda Williamson of Little Current, any who want to play or sing were encouraged to get up and perform. The jam began on June 12 and has took place every Friday night up until this September 4 which was the last performance until next summer.
The Country Jam provided a relaxed atmosphere, and Ms. Williamson being the “jam boss” made sure that everyone got a turn on stage and that the evening ran smoothly.
An open guitar case allowed listeners to show their appreciation of the musicians’ talents by donating to the Manitoulin Family Resources Food Bank. The initially modest goal for the guitar case proceeds was raised to $1,500 and to date it has collected over $1,300 in donations.
The Williamsons said they would like to thank everyone who came out to sing or play and all those who came out to listen and donated to the worthy cause.
A special thanks was sent out to Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands and its CAO Dave Williamson for permission to hold the Country Jam evenings. The couple also thanked Kelly Timmermans at 100.7 The Island radio station and The Manitoulin Expositor for their assistance in promoting the event.
Plans are already afoot to continue the popular venue for local musicians again next year.
