Today and Saturday, August 25, “For the Love of Craft – Bluesfest” will be held in the Confederation Room of Kingston City Hall.
More than 40 artisans and crafters ranging from as far as Toronto to Montreal will be displaying their hand made art – including clothing, jewellery and other works – with some proceeds from the event being donated to The Joe Chithalen Memorial Musical Instrument Lending Library (Joe’s M.I.L.L.) in Kingston.
“When we (were) approached by the group, and asked if we would like to be the beneficiary of this year’s events, we were delighted, as it is this kind of support from other organizations that help bring money in to help with the daily costs of running the library.” said Connie Leeman, who serves on the Board of Directors of the M.I.L.L.
The money raised from this weekend’s event will go towards the purchase of strings and repair parts for the 500 musical instruments that are lent out by the local charity who always ensures the instruments are in playable shape for the next borrower.
On Friday between 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm, the “For the Love of Craft – Bluesfest” event will include musical entertainment by Gerry Andre and Jim Kirkham, the newest member of the Joe’s M.I.L.L.’s Board of directors.
Admission is free and runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at 9:30 until 3:30 p.m. For a list of venders, check out this article at Blog TO.
The Joe Chithalen Musical Instrument Lending Library is a registered charity operating in Kingston at 559 Bagot Street. It currently has around 500 items available to borrow and enjoy, including guitars, keyboards, drums, horns, violins, percussion, exotic instruments, and much more – and just like a regular library, it’s all free. Its lending and teaching programs sustain music appreciation, knowledge, community enrichment and provide opportunities for youth and adults to meet their full potential.
