ESTEVAN - The Estevan Exhibition Association (EEA) is hosting a Valentine's Evening fundraiser on Feb. 12.
Stacey Holtz, an EEA board member organizing the fundraiser, said everything is set for a festive evening, which will include a four-course supper and live entertainment.
"We are going to be featuring local musician Jacquie Walbaum, as well as debuting a very young artist, his name is Daylin Ashworth. He's from Estevan," Holtz said.
Walbaum, who hails from Forget, is a highly regarded teacher and performer in southeast Saskatchewan. Newly minted with her bachelor of education, she combines her adept musicianship with deep pedagogical knowledge. Her innovative approach to music combines traditional along with fun modern music.
Walbaum performs with her husband Aaron as Wooltree Grove. The duo is passionate about lyrics and tight harmonies. Walbaum as a solo act is described as a folk/indie style of music that speaks to your soul.
She is also a former Estevan Idol (now Estevan Sings) winner.
Ashworth is in Grade 10 at the Estevan Comprehensive School and says that music is his passion. He's been playing the guitar for almost three years and recently started playing piano and singing. He adds that he hopes that people feel uplifted when he plays his music.
Eddie Websters is to cater the supper, which will offer a choice of an appetizer, stuffed mushrooms, tomato and basil bruschetta or mixed green salad, a choice of entrée – brie and cranberry stuffed chicken or a duck breast; and a special Valentine's dessert. The cash bar will be available throughout the night.
The EEA is a non-for-profit organization, and the fundraiser will help them with current expenses, Holtz said.
"We basically run our operating costs on fundraising events throughout the year. Of course, our biggest fundraisers are the fair and rodeo. And this is just another way that we can maintain our grounds and maintain all of our buildings by running these fundraising events," Holtz explained.
The event will take place at the Estevan Exhibition Hall. The doors open at 6 p.m., and Holtz said they expect it to go until about 9-9.30 p.m.
"For Valentine's evening, we are really wanting to get the community involved. We know this is a scary time with COVID, but we hope this can be a positive experience and a safe atmosphere that people can get out within the community and have a good time and support a good cause," Holtz said.
Tickets are $75 per person, or $550 for a table of eight. If a company purchases a table, they will receive a tax receipt.
For tickets, call or text Holtz at 306-421-2262 or message the Estevan Exhibition Association through their Facebook page. The deadline is Feb. 6.
A negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination is required as set by the provincial health regulations.
