by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
For over three decades, the McGregor Music Festival has not only been a source of spring outdoor entertainment many look forward to enjoying, but has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of the Windsor Cancer Center Foundation.
With dedication from the community- whether it's from the committee members who help organize the event to volunteers who pitch-in as they can, to sponsors, and the bands that sign up to play for free – the commitment to this event continues to be second to none.
With 12 local bands lined up to play, chances to win raffle prizes, and a fun opportunity to explore some of the area’s most eye-catching and interesting vintage and classic vehicles during the onsite car show, it was no big surprise around 900 individuals headed down to Co-An Park on Sunday to enjoy the event’s 33rd installment.
Sue LeClair, organizer of the event, continues to be grateful for that overwhelming support shown to the McGregor Music Festival. Without the long list of volunteers, the bands that donate their time and talents, and members of the community who promote to support the event, the music festival wouldn't take place.
She thanked all of those individuals and the members of the event’s steering committee, who work tirelessly year-after- year to plan and execute the festival.
She was also grateful for the beautiful weather outside, which no doubt helped draw so many to the park to enjoy all the festivities, including the always popular pig auction which itself raised $1940.
“It was busy to say the least,” LeClair happily said of the event.
This year's car show had the biggest turnout yet. Visitors were able to look over 75 cars entered into this portion of the festivities. A 2015 Ford GT won the People's Choice Award, while a 1945 Studebaker won best truck.
While it is not yet known what Sunday's event raised for the Windsor Cancer Center Foundation, as the organizing committee tallies totals, funds will be forwarded to the organization’s Patient Care and Patient Assistance programs.
LeClair explained that going through cancer treatment takes a financial toll on families. So, that is why the McGregor Music Festival continues to support the Windsor Cancer Center Foundation and its patient-oriented programs. That way, patients can get the support they need.
Last year's festivities raised $72,000 and LeClair hopes this year's event will do even better.
Throughout the course of the around 12-hour event, she noted that several members of the bands thanked her for allowing them to be a part of the festivities. She was quick to instead take the opportunity to thank them for generously donating their time to an event that supports local individuals battling cancer.
John Mainwaring plays the saxophone and guitar for local band “Lookin' Back.” He and his bandmates always look forward to playing at the McGregor Music Fest.
This band has been together for 30-years and has been playing this local festival for almost as long because “it's for a good cause,” he said, adding the crowd is always receptive.
Mainwaring added he always enjoys taking the time to meet and connect with the musicians from the other bands while he is onsite.
“Everything went perfectly,” LeClair said.