The concert on October 23rd, 2001, was a blast! All the details came together for a magical evening of music, food and charity fundraising. The band was superb - with only one full rehearsal they pulled it off like the pros they are. Thank you: Tony Koch (guitar), Miles Hill (bass), Tilden Webb (keyboards), Terry Paton (drums), Tom Keenlyside (alto and soprano sax, flute), Dino Dinicolo (djembe), Joyelle Brandt and Susan Everett (vocals). Thank you especially to the audience, who created a real atmosphere of communication. With their amazing support, the musical connection was there from start to finish.

Even a couple of awkward between-song moments became jokes, and my trip up to the green room for a forgotten capo turned into an impromptu blues jam (go, Tilden!) that refreshed the atmosphere and showed the versatility of these players.

The sound system was provided by Rocky Mountain Sound, who did a fast, professional and friendly job of it. On the controls during the concert was Perry Barrett, who recorded, mixed and mastered the CD. He was his usual charming and efficient self, and I was so glad he was there!

Doug Austin made a guest appearance for the song Blushing Bride, in his role as the 'priest voice' at the end of this song. I hope we didn't shock anybody! I can't help but grin at the over-the-top dark humour of it every time I listen to the recording.

Joyelle Brandt and Susan Everett put in extra rehearsal time with me, as well as spending time on their own learning their parts. They both have great voices, and did an awesome job with the harmonies, especially on Good Night For Stars. Yay girls!

Food was provided in the lobby by the catering services of Janis McRonald, through her company Unforgetable Edibles. It was a classy set up, and the food was delicious. A special favorite were the Belgian chocolate thingies she brought out after the concert, and everyone stuck around to eat, drink and be merry.

A word on the venue: In my opinion, the Arts Club Revue Stage is the best small theatre venue in Vancouver. And aside from the physical space, the people were helpful and friendly, especially Yvon Mailhot, Craig Fulker and Matthew Stovold (who worked the lighting, and created such perfect moods for each song!) Thanks to everyone at the Arts Club Theatre.

Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter was the sponsored charity, and the proceeds from the draw for prizes came to $191.00! Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, and to all the stores that donated items. They are:

Granville Island Merchants:
MESA
Dagoli
Dig This
Dragonspace
The Quarterdeck
Grape Expectations
Brussels Chocolates
Granville Island Boat Rentals
Julia Vidakovic (Tarot reading)

as well as
Spartacus Athletic Club (Commercial Drive)

Thank you also to Danielle Hebert, who sold tickets all evening, picked up the balloons, and helped to dole out the prizes. She is also responsible for the graphic layout of the CD inserts, through her company, Dark Horse Productions. She's also an all-round cool person!

Special thanks to my Mom and Dad, Roy and Gertrude Bishop, who flew all the way from Nova Scotia to be there for the big night. Their support has been steady and strong from the beginning, and I thank them for that, and for who they are, and for many more things than I could list here. I am blessed.

Thanks also to my sister, Orinda, and to my brother, Grant, and their families. I miss you guys, and value your support and friendship more than I can say.

To everyone who sent flowers: Rinda, Joan and Daryl, Mom's siblings: Joyce, Betty, Ruth, Mary, Bruce and families, Joyelle, and Tim - Awesome! Thank you! What a treat, and they really classied up the joint!

And finally - very special thanks to my love, Tony Koch, who, in the midst of an extremely busy time, was there in whole-hearted, focused support - musically, emotionally, organizationally - before, during and after the performance. Having him involved gave me peace of mind and a higher level of confidence. Thanks Babe! You are amazing!