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Musicians support family after fire

By Daron Letts
Northern News Services
Published Thursday, February 5, 2009

Thankfully, no people were injured when a fire did an estimated $120,000 in damage to a home in Northland Trailer Park on Jan. 21. However, the family lost two pets and much of their possessions in the blaze.

Members of the music community are helping the family cope by staging a fundraiser Feb. 7 at the Top Knight.



Members of the doo wop A Capella combo, The Harmony Sisters, are hosting a fundraiser on Saturday night in support of a family who lost their possessions in a fire last month. The singers are, back row from left, Kerry Taylor, Lizzy Close, Shannon Payne and, front row from left, Roya Yazdanmehr, Amanda Baikie, Kate Tompkins, Aingeal Stone and Mary Tapsell.

"Even though the structure didn't burn down, they lost pretty much everything," said organizer Kate Tompkins, of the A Capella doo wop group, The Harmony Sisters.

The concert, titled Rising From the Ashes, will present 10 musical acts throughout the evening to raise money for Judy Whyte, Jessie Young and Jordan Young.

"Jessie used to be a Harmony Sister and we care deeply about her and we want to help," Tompkins said. Although the family has insurance, they are in immediate need of clothing and other necessities, Tompkins said, adding she understands their plight because she lost a home to a fire 12 years ago.

"I know exactly what they're going through and I know exactly what they need," she said. "They need everything. The fundraiser is to bring cash to help them get back on their feet."

Despite being nine months pregnant, William Macdonald music teacher and family friend Kamey Dunbar is planning to sing at the event with accompaniment from Steve Pretty.

"I've known Jessie and her family for about three years," Dunbar said. "They're good spirits and we have to join our community to help when things like this happen."

Rising From the Ashes begins at 7 p.m. Saturday Feb. 7. Admission is by donation. A fur-lined guitar case will be opened at the front door to accept cash and gift certificates for clothing. Children's clothing in sizes 5 and 6 and women's clothing in sizes 10 to 16 will also be accepted with thanks.

"We, the Young family, would like to express our gratitude to the organizers of the concert, all of the fabulous musicians who are performing, and to the countless community members and friends who have donated so much in so many different ways to help our family get through this very difficult time," Jessie Young said in a statement to Yellowknifer. "Saturday is going to rock and we are looking forward to a great time with friends and community. Thanks again to everyone for all of the support. It is golden for us during this time."

When asked if she planned to reunite with The Harmony Sisters on stage, Jessica replied: "Yes, I think I will join them for one song - music is therapeutic after all."