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In a statement on behalf of Hanna’s most famous sons, band member Ryan Peake said they were motivated to help because of how the tragedy has “affected the entire country.

“The devastation, images and stories of the lives shattered by this resonate with everyone; but, perhaps none more so than Albertans,” Peake’s statement said.

“Alberta is home for us and we’ve never shied from that.

“When tragedy strikes at home, you help. It’s the least we could do and we are humbled to be a part of this event with so many talented artists.”

The money raised will go to the Fort McMurray United Way. TD Bank Group has already donated $500,000 to Fire Aid.

The event’s banner includes a subtitle, “Show goes rain or shine, praying for rain.”

Tim Shipton, volunteer committee member, “You really can move mountains and move aside self-interest for the greater good.”

“It will bring together the community in support and celebration of that amazing city to the north Fort McMurray.”

Organizers of the event consist of volunteers from across the province, including staff of the Edmonton Eskimos, Oilers Entertainment Group, Live Nation and Northlands. The event’s hashtag is #fireaid4ymm. Initial planning started at a Calgary pub in Calgary on May 9.

The Edmonton Music Awards, originally scheduled for the same night at Winspear Centre, graciously moved their gala up one day to Tuesday, June 28. All tickets purchased for that event are transferrable, full refunds to anyone unable to attend. “We don’t want anyone excluded from participating in what will be a very successful and worthy Fort McMurray fundraising effort,” declared a statement from EMA.

A wildfire forced more than 80,000 people from Fort McMurray and the surrounding area to evacuate on May 3. A phased re-entry is scheduled to begin June 1.

“No matter what we raise here in the millions it’s going to be a Band-Aid compared to the billions needed,” noted committee member Jeff Parry. “When your barn’s burned down you just go (rebuild) it and get ‘er done. Ask not what your province can do for your province but what you can do for your province.”

fgriwkowsky@edmontonjournal.com

@fisheyefoto