The Splash of Colour gala at Thompson Rivers University on Saturday raised approximately $40,000 for local bursaries and scholarships.
The event included a silent auction, a beautifully-catered dinner and exceptional live entertainment and a dance.
One of the people behind the well-attended event was Brian Garland, long-time supporter of music programs for local young people and member of the business community.
He said that the Splash of Colour gala was a wonderful success. “It was fabulous,” he said simply. “The food was perfect, and having the silent auction and the bar located where they were was great.
The band, March Hare, packed the dance floor for every song.
He also said it was “very inspiring” to see the Cariboo Chilcotin Youth Fiddlers on stage, performing songs from their current project, The Fiddling History of Canada.
“This group has come so far,” he said. “I think back about 12 years when the Old Time Fiddlers talked about wanting to help get kids involved in fiddling. We got some scholarships to Gavin Lake Fiddle Camp, helped with some instructors, donations and instruments.
“Looking back on where they come from and where they are now - it’s onward and upward now.”
Dinner music for the gala was provided by Angela Sommer from Angelkeys Music Studio. This was the second TRU gala she has played for, and she said that it’s an entirely enjoyable event. “I like supporting kids and their education. Period,” she said. “If I can help, I will.”