Ventura firemen revive idea of September celebration

The Ventura Fire Department is resuscitating once-popular SeptemberFest.  The department plans to hold a street dance in the community Saturday, Sept. 3, as a fundraiser for a new fire truck.

Up-and-coming country artist Tyler Steel will headline the event. Radio station FM 98.7 on-air personality J. Brooks will also take part in the fun, getting the crowd ready and playing music before Steel hits the stage. Another local band is also expected to be scheduled as an opener for Steel.

Steel has performed in the area at the Surf Ballroom and on the lake, but most recently has been honing his talents in Nashville.  The Texas native has chart topping singles on iTunes and Spotify.  “Every One Of You” is currently number two on the Indie Chart and number six on the New Music Weekly Country breakout Main Chart.

Ventura Fire Chief John Quintus explained firefighter Chuck Shropshire had a connection to Brooks and Steel and helped to develop the fundraising concert idea.  Steel actually Face-timed with firefighters during their Christmas party and also visited the department on Saturday night, April 30, where he met with firefighters and their families.

Quintus said there will be a beer garden and food available during the Sept. 3 concert.  A $10 donation is needed for entry. Tickets will also be available in advance.

Firefighters are currently seeking sponsors for the concert, which will cover the cost of bringing Steel and his band to Ventura.

The Ventura City Council has already approved the partial closure of Weimer and/or Sena Streets to accommodate the show.

Chief Quintus noted the department has been diligently putting away funds for a new fire truck, but with the price tag at $400,000 or more, grant writing and fundraising is also crucial.

“Because of the limited manpower we have, we are solely focusing on the street dance and going for a big crowd,” said Quintus when asked if other past

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SeptemberFest events would be held Sept. 3.  “Others can certainly join in,” he added.  “We want it to be a good event for Ventura.”

Those interested in helping to sponsor Tyler Steel in concert, purchase tickets to the event, or learn more about the fire department’s fundraising should message the department through its Ventura Fire & Rescue Facebook page.

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