June 5, 2023
Vachstock coming soon!
St.Thomas – Nestled within a thirty-acre woodlot on the outskirts of the village of Shedden you’ll find an enchanted forest that will be transformed this Canada Day long weekend into the most entertaining music event. Sandy and Jeff Vachon, owners of The Clearing, bring you Vachstock! This all-ages event on Sunday, July 2nd will highlight artists from across Elgin County for a one-day fundraiser in support of YWCA St.Thomas-Elgin’s Project Tiny Hope.
“There would be no Vachstock if not for Ron and Mary-Jane Vachon’s Port Stanley property, their welcoming ways, and Don Mather’s musical talent and entourage of like-minded friends, who literally jumped on The Bandwagon! It was meant to be one night of fun, but turned out to have a life of its own and became a yearly event. Ron and Mary’s circumstances changed, and for so many Vachstock became a great memory. Jeff and my circumstances have enabled us to reinstate it, and we decided it would be a great fundraiser,” shares Sandy Vachon. With a common goal of helping out the community Vachon spoke to some friends about its return, “as it happened, I mentioned it in the company of my friend Laurie Intven who jumped off her seat and said, “Tiny Hope”! And here we are! “Our Hope” is to keep it going as a yearly event to help the community come together and help itself. Vachstock started as a night of fun, and that’s what it will remain! The good it does is up to the people. They show up and make all the difference!”
Lindsay Rice, Executive Director of YWCA explains what third party events such as this mean to her team, “as our staff and capital campaign committee focus on vital programming, services and connecting with corporate donors for our 40-unit build, it is amazing to have folx in the community like the Vachon’s who have come to us with a creative, engaging and fun event in support of Tiny Hope.”
There will be live music from 4 to 10pm and guests can enjoy one of two food trucks featuring The Streetery and The Original Twisted Fork. Don’t forget to swing by YWCA’s Tiny Hope booth to learn about their innovative solution for affordable supportive housing in the heart of downtown St.Thomas. Cash bar will also be available to those 19+ years old. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and don’t be afraid to pack your dancing shoes as the main stage lineup includes Cliff Erickson, Ukes of Hazzard, Don Mathers & Tom McLeod, Mike & Kate Mulhern, Molly Mathers & Chuck Magri, Paul Mills, John Millis, Paul Hurdle Band, Brian Abbey Band and ending off the night with Smokin’ Bass.
“What is really special is that not only have the Vachons, but also Redemption Tent Rentals, Union Sports Sales, Randy Dawdy and Dave Wright (sounds/lights), Bob Bishop from Thunder in The Valley (stage), many volunteers and the musicians will be donating their time, talents and tunes to make this family friendly day possible,” says Rice.
By donation at the gate (cash only), Vachstock t-shirts will be for sale. Gate opens at 3pm with music at 4pm. Guaranteed to be a day filled with Big Fun for Tiny Hope!
For more information contact The Clearing at 519-764-2325 https://www.theclearing.ca/contact
34855 Fifth Line, Shedden
