Bands to help Ground Search and Rescue

Contrary to popular belief, Pictou County’s Volunteer Ground Search and Rescue doesn’t receive government funding. Instead, these people who are called in times of crisis to help locate missing persons must rely on donations. “Everybody thinks Ground Search and Rescue is a funded group and it’s not,” said Andy Spears. “We run solely on our own fundraising” To help generate revenue for the non-profit, Spears has taken it upon himself to organize a fundraising event on Feb. 29 at the White Tail Pub and Grill in Westville. The event will feature five bands as well as a silent auction and 50/50. The bands performing are: Fully Completely Hip, Mike and The MacPhersons, Double Jim and Tonic, Billy Bell Band, and Scott Hill and The Eldorado Band. The event runs from 6 p.m. until close. Admission is a $10 minimum donation. This is the first time Pictou County Volunteer Ground Search and Rescue has held a fundraiser like this, but if it’s a success Spears said he’d like to hold similar events in the future. He’s personally been involved with the group for almost two years. “I love being outside, for one. Just trying to help people, that’s what we do,” he said. While he’s only had the chance to take part in a couple of searches so far, because of work commitments, he said it’s an amazing feeling to know you’ve helped find someone. “You can’t even describe it,” he said. The organization currently has about 60 members but is always looking for more. For information on how to become involved or donate, email pcvgsar@gmail.com.