It was one year today since the Chewstick Foundation’s culture Hub went up in flames, but it is beginning to rise from the ashes with the hosting of a series of commemorative fundraising events this weekend.

The cultural arts charity’s premises at 81 Front Street, which was just days away from opening its doors following a long-term fundraising campaign, were destroyed in a fire that started next door at Onion Jack’s — the cause of which is still being investigated.

The Chewstick fire commemoration activities will begin today with a lunchtime gathering between 11am and 2pm on the lawn area between Pier 6 and No 5 car park, directly across the street from the former Chewstick culture hub location.

The aim is for people to get together and reconnect over lunch and share stories, poems and songs while reflecting on the organisation, Bermuda and the year since the fire.

On Saturday there will be a members’ reunion bonfire at Admiralty House beach where members will convene for an evening of “sharing and expression”, while enjoying a swim and food.

There will be music, an overview of the coming year and the chance to rekindle the Chewstick camaraderie and heart.

Finally, this Sunday there will be a fire concert fundraiser where singers, poets and rappers will perform. The line-up includes Kassie Caines (of The Big Chill), Ayana, SharlaBean, Haz the Human, Matthew Johnston, Tiffany Paynter, executive director Gavin Djata Smith, and special guest, international Bermudian reggae artist Mishka.

The concert will take place at 7:30pm in the private garden of Gotcha Covered, located at 39 Reid Street, across from Rock Island Coffee.

Tickets are available online at www.ptix.bm with general admission available for $30 and patron tickets for $100, and all remaining tickets available at the door.

The event will provide complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a bar (cash or card), as well as raffle prizes and merchandise for sale. All proceeds will go towards the recovery of the Chewstick Foundation.

Chewstick has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of appreciation and support from the community following the devastating fire that took place on July 21, 2016.

In the past year, thanks to generous donations from individuals, small businesses, and corporate donors, Chewstick has been able to continue with some of its programming and service to the community.

The Chewstick Foundation continues with its retreat programme (the next of which is August 11), a Heritage Month themed event series in May sponsored by the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, and the Chewstick community art programme which recently completed murals atGombeys at Clearwater, Overview Hill in Pembroke. More recently, it began installation at St George’s Cricket Club for Cup Match.

Chewstick’s executive director, Gavin Djata Smith said: “I am completely humbled and grateful for the response the Chewstick Foundation has received, and the work that our friends, family, and incredible volunteers have put into the fire recovery initiatives.

“The loss of the facility has been heartbreaking, but the community support has opened our eyes to how many people have been touched by Chewstick, either directly, through someone they know, or from the continued cultivation of the arts in Bermuda. This support has re-energised the team and renewed the commitment to the work that we do to bring all of Bermuda’s people together.”

Chairperson of the Chewstick Foundation’s board of elders, Sharon Baillie, added: “It has been incredible to hear how many people view Chewstick as a resource, sanctuary and creative home.

“Bermuda needs Chewstick: a platform for developing Bermuda’s talent, a home for the local creative community, and one of the few neutral spaces that can accommodate deeper engagement and understanding.

“Over the past year many people have come together to reflect on the state of Bermuda’s arts and culture, and celebrate the many accomplishments. It is truly a community organisation, empowering one to enrich all.”

For information the Chewstick Foundation through fundraising@chewstick.org or by calling 292-2439. For further information, visit www.chewstick.org

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Chewstick Foundation can visit our website www.chewstick.org or call 292-2439.