The popular Rob n’ Walker will be performing at Gyro Park next Wednesday in a fundraiser for Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre.

The country-rock band, led by Rob Robertson, has played in Osoyoos several times at Jojo’s Café, as well as at the Medieval Faire and at the Royal Canadian Legion.

Rob n’ Walker was formerly known as the Rob Robertson Band, but the name was changed to avoid confusion with Robbie Robertson of the legendary roots group, The Band.

The event is called the First Annual Beer, Bubbles and Bratz Fundraiser. It’s scheduled for 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on July 25 at Gyro Park.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance through Eventbrite, directly from Desert Sun or at the gate.

Each ticket provides admission to the Rob n’ Walker concert, a beer or cider, a hamburger or bratz (bratwurst) and it helps with the numerous programs that Desert Sun provides.

Kathy Marhoffer, who works as a bookkeeper for Desert Sun, is also a huge Rob n’ Walker fan and she volunteers to help promote the group. She says the idea to bring her two passions together was hers.

“Rob has such an amazing voice and his music is so great,” she said, noting that the band is about a month or two away from releasing their debut CD, Born to Ride the Wind.

Marhoffer said Desert Sun’s Empty Bowls fundraiser in November is always a huge success, but because Desert Sun is expanding its roster of community programs, it needs to raise additional money.

“We don’t charge anyone for counselling,” she said, noting that the men’s counselling program in particular has waiting lists and receives only a small gaming grant. Most of its cost must be covered by fundraising.

“That’s sad because it’s a huge component of the overall problem with domestic violence,” she said.

The fundraiser will also raise awareness of Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre and the programs it offers in Osoyoos and Oliver, Marhoffer said.

Those wanting information can call 250-495-6925 or 250-498-2538.

To purchase tickets on Eventbrite, visit: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/beer-bubbles-and-bratz-fundraiser-tickets-46825666830.

RICHARD McGUIRE

Osoyoos Times