Belleville, ON, Canada / Quinte News

The people received great music and the people gave great support to local women and children Saturday at Belleville’s Empire Theatre.

it was Welcome Home Weekend, two nights of live music outdoors at Empire Square.

Saturday all of the proceeds from ticket sales were be donated through the Royal Lepage Women’s Foundation to local shelters for Women and children suffering domestic abuse.

Final figures aren’t in but Empire Theatre owner Mark Rashotte announced a preliminary fundraising total of $35,000.

The City of Belleville and the Foundation ponied up for the costs of Saturday’s concert.

A lucky woman won just over $4,000. on a 50/50 draw from two nights of ticket sales.

Entertaining Saturday were Prince Edward County’s Miss Emily, Classic Albums Live doing Credence Clearwater Revival’s hits, and finally local music icons All You Need is Love.

This was All You Need is Love’s final show after 22 years performing in countries around the world.

Lead singer Andy Forgie broke down briefly introducing lead guitarist Mark Rashotte, reminiscing about their times together playing in bands, beginning in Belleville in grade 7.

CJBQ’s Lorne Brooker, who introduced All You Need is Love 22 years ago, was on hand to bring the band on stage for its final show.

Friday night The Trews Acoustic and Blue Rodeo performed to open Welcome Home Weekend.

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(Photo: John Spitters/Quinte News)