Pictured from left to right: Chris Straub, SPHHF Board Chair, John Ricard, David Bremner
We are thrilled to announce that John Ricard, an accomplished musician himself, is the lucky winner of our Rock, Raffle & Roll for Healthcare draw. John, a musician himself, is absolutely delighted to have won this autographed Fender American Professional II Stratocaster guitar to join his collection of guitars at home!
This generous endeavor was conceived by local businessman, musician, and long-time SPHHF supporter, David Bremner. David and his wife, Kim, developed a close friendship with drummer Russ Kunkel and his wife, Shauna, while dining in Sidney, BC. This friendship grew, and in November 2022 David and Kim visited Russ and Shauna in Los Angeles. It was during this visit that they acquired the autographed guitar, with the thought of donating it to the Foundation.
The Immediate Family
Some of the biggest names from the Los Angeles music industry lent their names to support the Foundation. Legendary musicians guitarists Danny Kortchmar, Waddy Wachtel, and Steve Postell, along with drummer Russ Kunkel and bassist Leland Sklar, have collectively played for Hall-of-Fame artists such as James Taylor, Keith Richards, Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Together, they form the supergroup known as The Immediate Family.
These iconic musicians graciously autographed a Fender American Professional II Stratocaster guitar, which was then raffled off to raise funds for the SPHHF. The proceeds from this unique Rock, Raffle & Roll for Healthcare will be used to help purchase much needed equipment for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital’s Emergency Department, Operating Room and throughout the hospital. This will enable SPH doctors and staff to better diagnose and treat patients, ensuring the highest levels of care and best possible outcomes for everyone on the peninsula and surrounding area.
Bren Moroz-Pettyjohn, Legacy Giving & Community Engagement Manager at SPHHF, says that this fundraising opportunity was unlike any the Foundation had ever done before. The hope was to inspire many to purchase tickets, not only to support healthcare on the Peninsula but also to connect with the music world through these well-known artists and have a chance to win the coveted Fender guitar and case, valued at $2593.06 CAD. The Foundation is thankful to these rock legends for making such a significant impact on our small community.
The prize: autographed Fender American Professional II Stratocaster
The sale of raffle tickets started on August 2, 2023, and they were available for purchase through the SPHHF website, as well as in various music stores across the Peninsula and greater Victoria. Tickets were priced at $25 each or 5 tickets for $100. The draw, eagerly awaited by many, was held on Wednesday, October 11th.
Once again, congratulations to lucky winner, John Ricard. New owner of this beautiful autographed Fender guitar, thanks to this exceptional collaboration between music legends and our caring community.
