Gear Jammers and Butte Bands rock out at Rhythm and Brews 2022
Everyone gave something on Saturday afternoon at the 2022 Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Butte "Rhythm and Brews" festival, but Toby Schelin stood out even in a crowd of volunteers. The F.O.G. frontman gave up his Saturday to move speakers, make announcements, usher performers on and off the stage and serve as audio engineer for the entire festival. Oh, and his band rocked the house, too.
F.O.G. wrapped up a full day's worth of musical performances by Butte's John Montoya, JST Us and High Ore Road on an afternoon that saw the Original Mineyard full of beautiful hot rods courtesy of the Copper City Gear Jammers car club, food vendors, a beer garden and even a bubble machine and Hot Yoga. All of the performers donated their time and equipment and Schelin supplied the enormous PA system.
All of this was part of the annual Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Butte "Rhythm and Brews" festival which serves as a huge source of funding for the local charity according to BBBS-Butte Executive Director Laci Peck Ridder. "This is one of our biggest events of the year," she explained between bands. Funds were raised through a variety of means including drink sales, a "Dutch Auction", a 50/50 drawing and individual donations. The money raised will have a huge impact. "It helps fund our matches (between "bigs" and "littles") for the entire year," Ridder added. But donations of time and money are welcome throughout the year as well." The best way to get ahold of us is to call us at the office, (406)782-9644," Ridder explained, "and of course they can reach out to us on Facebook. We answer messages regularly"