Business and the arts will merge in Ladysmith later this month to entertain residents and support a pair of important community organizations.
The Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Arts Council of Ladysmith to stage its fall fundraising gala. Davey Jones Locker will feature a seafood dinner, live music and auction at Aggie Hall on Oct. 18.
“I used to be on the [chamber] board of directors and it just seemed like a really good marriage,” said Kathy Holmes, president of the Ladysmith Arts Council, on the decision by the two groups to join forces for the Oct. 18 event.
She said the talents of the two organizations also blend well for the event, with the chamber handling the organization and the arts council taking care of decorations.
“We’ve got a fun evening planned. We’re really excited to be able to make use of the initiative and energy of the arts council,” said Rob Waters, past-president of the Chamber and chair of the fundraising committee.
Holmes said the arts council plans to use its share of the proceeds from the event to go towards the installation of an elevator at the Waterfront Gallery on Oyster Bay Road.
“The gallery is on the second floor and we really need an elevator. So many people can’t come up the stairs,” she said. “Anybody with any disabilities, they just can’t make it up the stairs and it’s sad.”
The Ladysmith Chamber has traditionally staged a fall fundraising event, joining forces this year with the arts council.
“The Ladysmith Chamber of Commerce relies upon unique events such as this to assist us to establish capital funds for operation and relocation planning and to ensure our service remains affordable and available to all who need this support,” chamber manager Mark Drysdale said in a letter to members.
Holmes said the event will feature an under-the-sea costume theme and a seafood dinner displaying the talents of local chefs. The Bratz will provide the entertainment for the event that also includes an auction for items such as a trip to Seattle complements of the Nanaimo Airport and Kenmore Air.
Tickets are $40 each, $75 for two or $300 for a table of eight and are available at the Chamber office at 33 Roberts St.