Musician moved by memorial to hold benefit concert
Windsor event will raise money for Toronto Strong van attack fund
Musician Keith Stiner was overwhelmed when he went to Toronto a few weeks ago and saw people lighting candles and laying flowers at a memorial on Yonge Street where a van plowed into a crowd of pedestrians on April 23, killing 10 and injuring 16.
“It was very emotional. It almost brought tears to my eyes,” said Stiner, who moved to Windsor from the Greater Toronto Area about eight years ago. “I just felt in my heart that I needed to do something.” Stiner is organizing a benefit concert to raise money for Toronto Strong, the city-sanctioned fundraising arm dedicated to helping those affected by the attack. The concert is being billed as “Musicians With Hearts” and features acts from both sides of the border.
The concert kicks off at 2 p.m. and runs all day Sunday at Good Time Charly Bar & Grill at 4715 Tecumseh Rd. East. Organizers are asking for a minimum $10 donation at the door and hope to raise at least $1,500, which Stiner plans on delivering in person.
Stiner said he was horrified by the attack in northern Toronto, when a man driving a rental van plowed into pedestrians on Yonge Street near Finch Avenue, leaving a trail of carnage that stretched for more than two kilometres. Alex Minassian, 25, has been charged with 10 counts of firstdegree murder and 16 counts of attempted murder in connection with the rampage.
“I don’t know how anybody could do such a selfish thing like that, just mow those people down,” said Stiner. “My heart just goes out to them. The whole thing was just totally uncalled for.”
Stiner sings and plays harmonica for Keith and Co. Joining him at the benefit will be lead guitarist Yvan Lichtensteiger, bassist Jeff Sinclair, rhythm guitarist Terry Taylor and drummer Lizzy Muldoon.
Other acts on the bill include the Bad Moustache Band; the Dale D’Amore Trio; Bobby D; Chris Ould; Echo Steps; Joe Perry and the Wellness Band; and Joe Kidd and Sheila Burke from Michigan. Stand up comic Bill Squire will also make an appearance. Stiner urged locals to attend so they can help raise money for a great cause while listening to some great music.
“It’s going to be fun,” said Stiner. “They’re going to have a blast.”
I don’t know how anybody could do such a selfish thing like that, just mow those people down.