2024 has been a huge milestone for local country music star Jason Blaine and his fundraising efforts. This year marked the 10th annual Jason Blaine Celebrity Charity Golf Classic and Pembroke’s hometown country music star had a big goal – to surpass the $1 million mark. The total raised for 2024 was $200,000, which put the total funds raised almost $40,000 over their million-dollar goal. The initiatives being supported this year include the BGC Renfrew County, Robbie Dean Centre, Pembroke & Area Airport, and Ottawa Valley Community Foundation.
“Our first year with this event we raised $50,000,” said Blaine, on stage with his committee. “Today, to have raised $200,000 – it’s just incredible. Thank you to the businesses and individuals involved in this event for making this happen.”
Blaine was presented with a key to the City of Pembroke, supported by Mayor Ron Gervais and Councillor Ian Kuehl. Gervais provided an emotional tribute to Blaine, who was overwhelmed with receiving the city’s highest honour. Mayor Gervais noted that “Jason continues to use his talents to give back to the community he loves so much. He is every bit the person we have come to know and love.”
Joining Jason in the milestone 10th anniversary event were artists Dallas Smith, Aaron Pritchett, Elyse Saunders, Josh Melton, Rivertown Saints, Lemon Cash, Rainwater Whiskey and Landon Bedor. Ottawa Senators alumnus Chris Neil and retired NFL/CFL player Ryan Thelwell also lent their support.
The two-day event began on Tuesday with a Bluebird Café, an acoustic event to thank past contributors and show a little of the personal side of the artists. The event was held at the Best Western Pembroke Inn and with live and silent auction items, raised $56,000 towards the million-dollar goal. The second day was the traditional golf and concert event at the Pembroke Golf Club, again with live and silent auction activities. More than 175 businesses and individuals contributed to the event through sponsorships, auction contributions, donations and services in-kind
More information on the main event and the pre-events is available at www.jasonblainecharity.com, www.facebook.com/JBfundraiser and www.instagram.com/jasonblainecharity.
(Written by: Kyle Robinson)