News

The Annual R&B Fest held at Hermann's in downtown Victoria, also known as the "Office Picnic", was launched fourteen years ago by John Fisher and Sharon Wadsworth and this year found Victoria Blues Society working in conjunction with them.

The annual event is important to the Victoria blues community as it gives the ability to do some good in supporting the Victoria NEED Crisis and Information Line that is now in it's 36th year, and it is the perfect chance for Victoria's musicians to get reacquainted. 

This year, those who love the blues, were entertained by some of Victoria's favourite bands, Elmores, Gary Preston Band,  Deb Rhymer Band, Auntie Kate and the Uncles of Funk and the Soul Shakers..

The 2008 edition of the R&B Fest raised over $1500 for the Victoria NEED Crisis and Information Line, and Jane Arnott, Executive Director for NEED said, "We want to offer our heartfelt "thank you" for the hard work that went into making this event a huge success. The gift of your amazing music and talent is greatly appreciated and the funds raised from the R&B Fest helps us support our volunteers in the important work they do on the phone lines." 

Next year's "Company Picnic" is February 2009, with the exact date to be announced here on the VBS Calendar when set, and it will sell out fast!

To find out more about NEED, visit www.needcrisis.bc.ca