Sessions record show spins more than $400 for COPE

The latest record show at Sessions on the River raised more than $400 for Community Outreach Program Erie (COPE), the local food bank.

The Sunday event drew steady crowds of collectors and casual browsers, with live sets from the Stardust Duo and vendors offering everything from rare pressings to restored album covers.

Francesca Baldassare, who helped at the door collecting the $3 entry fee, said the donations to COPE exceeded expectations.

“People are so appreciative of everything we do, and they may have used those services themselves, so they’re really eager to donate,” she told Fort Erie Radio at the event.

Craig Waters, who organizes the shows and sold records from his own table, said the sale helps keep music culture alive locally while supporting a cause many residents have relied on.

Waters also bought popular records–artists such as ZZ Top, Rush and Elton John–from people looking to sell and from the other vendors, knowing they are top sellers.

“I probably bought more records than I sold today,” he said.

In the future, Waters said he may hold shows later in the day, since 10 to 11 a.m. was rather slow.

“This is not a nine o’clock town, so maybe for the next ones I’ll do eleven to three.”

Vendors included specialists like Terry Gracie of The Vinyl Spa, who restores covers and records for collectors and shops across Niagara.

Live music came from the band Stardust Duo, featuring members of Hamilton’s Redhill Valleys, who performed throughout the day.

Waters confirmed the record show will return to Sessions next year in February and again in May.

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