HASTINGS
The lineup of artists performing at the PNE's Summer Nights Concerts series literally has something for everyone, especially those who can remember the lyrics to "Sur-fin' USA."
And hopefully the Beach Boys will also remember the lyrics when they take the stage Aug. 23 for The Fair at the PNE, which runs Aug. 17 to Sept. 2.
The Summer Nights Concert schedule begins Aug. 17, with singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge and continues with Dean Brody, Great Big Sea, Colin James, Sam Roberts Band, Corb Lund and the Hurtin' Albertans, Foreigner, the Proclaimers, Big Wreck, Martina McBride, REO Speedwag-on, Lights and the headband and leather pants-friendly finale, An Evening With Loverboy Sept. 2.
Another highlight of the series is the Jackson Unity Tour Aug. 18, complete with brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon who, from what I've read online, bring their Motown sound to the stage while performing in front of huge video images of their late brother Michael. I would actually pay extra to see a hologram moonwalk by the late King of Pop as he joined his brothers on the WestJet Concert Stage, but I guess we'll have to settle for Jermaine strutting his stuff in skin-tight leggings. (I read some reviews.)
All concerts are free with admission to the Fair, but superfans looking for reserved seating can purchase a limited number of seats in the new WestJet Fan Zone. Visit pne.ca for more information.
DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE
The Common Courtesy's new CD release party takes place at the Portside Pub, 7 Alexander St., June 27 with all proceeds going to Kids Up Front, a charitable organization that provides access to arts, culture, sports and recreation for children and youth who don't opportunity, by collecting and distributing tickets that otherwise would go unused. That means kids who might not normally have the chance to attend hockey games, theatre, musical performances or festivals can go.
The party, sponsored by Save On Meats, also includes performances by Sex With Strangers, Phoenix Thunderbird, Jody Glenham, Port Authority, Gold & Youth, Sunshine and Ultraviolence. Entrance is by donation, but $20 will ensure you receive a copy of the band's new album. Doors open at 8 p.m.
CANADA-WIDE
This event didn't launch in Vancouver, but is in support of Canadian Blood Services so anyone can donate.
It's also in memory of my dear friend and mentor Penny Lett, a former reporter with the Chilliwack Progress newspaper, who died very unexpectedly in March. Prior to her death, Lett had donated 125 times, which means she helped save up to 375 lives as each unit of blood is separated into three parts - red blood cells, platelets and plasma.
Progress reporter Jenna Hauck has organized a two-month long blood drive in Lett's honour, which is launching in Chilliwack with several clinics, but she's hoping donors from across Canada will also step up and do their part. Hauck's goal is to have 125 units donated in Lett's name by getting people to sign up at blood.ca. For instructions on how to join the In Memory of Penny Lett blood drive, read Hauck's column at theprogress.com. [email protected]
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