White Rock firefighters are turning up the volume on their quest to raise money for an all-abilities playground on White Rock’s waterfront.
And they’ve got the backing of some hometown talent to help them do it.
White Rock-born reggae-rocker Daniel Wesley – who spent the first few years of his childhood in the seaside city – is headlining a dance at the Star of the Sea Hall on Oct. 27 for the cause.
“I get asked to do a lot of different charitable events. Normally, I have to turn them down,” Wesley said last week. “This one seemed like a really good thing to be a part of.”
Firefighter Evan Bird spearheaded the dance idea with colleague Bira Bhindra. It’s the latest in efforts to raise money for the park, which has also been supported by proceeds of recent princess parties hosted by Bird’s mother, Myra Merkal – including one held in August that raised $12,000.
Bird set his sights on an all-abilities park after the August 2010 loss of the playground in Semiahmoo Park. He used to take his daughters to play there, and said the value such a place has in a community is immeasurable.
“You realize once something’s gone, what you’re missing out on,” Bird said.
“This is absolutely ludicrous that we don’t have a park on the beach.
“What better place to have a social gathering spot?”
While there are still many details to work out, including how much money is needed and exactly where the park will be located
– he’s hoping for a site on East Beach – Bird said he is determined to forge ahead. “Everybody” he talks to about the idea is supportive, he added.
Signing Wesley to per
form at the Halloween Howl only added to the thrill of the effort.
Wesley, whose brother Micah Rossnagel is a Langley firefighter, told Peace Arch News his connection to the community dates back 30 years, to the day he was born. All three of his grandparents live in White Rock, and he spent many a day on the city’s waterfront, even after his family moved to Langley.
“I grew up on that beach,” the now-Vancouver resident said. “There should be access for everybody.”
He described the request to play on Oct. 27 as “a really nice phone call to get.”
For those planning to attend the dance, Wesley said his goal is “just to entertain and be entertained.”
The evening is to also feature Six Gun Romeo. Tickets, $30, can be purchased at the firehall (15315 Pacific Ave.) or online at www.wrff.eventbrite.ca
For more information, call 604-531-6045.