VFW Post 9544 of Suffield hosted a one-of-a-kind night of acoustic music on Friday night, May 31, 2024.
From left to right: Musicians Dave Boudah, Don Ledoux, Donna Hess and Gary Hess creating the mood for Jimmy Buffet’s song “Margaritaville.”
“Don Ledoux and Friends, 60’s & 70’s Acoustic” show featured music by artists such as James Taylor, Neil Diamond, Jim Croce, America, The Eagles and Jimmy Buffet, to name a few. Don Ledoux, DC, of Turning Point Wellness Center, LLC, played acoustic guitar and sang all but one number during the two-hour show. He was accompanied on about half of the songs by Dave Boudah playing acoustic lead guitar, Donna Hess supplying back-up and lead vocals and Gary Hess playing the bass guitar.
“These people are not only great musicians, but great, generous people,” Ledoux said. “All the musicians donated their time and talent to the VFW and wouldn’t take any compensation! Not even Dave Boudah, who donated the use of his great sounding PA system!”
Nearly six months ago, Ledoux was talking with VFW member, Dave Shute, about a dream he had to put together an acoustic show to benefit an organization in town. It was Shute’s suggestion to have the show at the VFW to benefit the VFW! After sharing the vision with VFW Commander Bill Moryto, the date was set. Thanks to the efforts and support of Ledoux’s wife, Lisa Pepe, Dave Shute, VFW Commander Moryto, Astrid Torres-VFW Event Coordinator, all the musicians and Rick Sylvester who ran sound, the show was a huge success drawing over 150 people into the large hall and raising $2,350.00 to benefit the VFW. A quick note of thanks to George Fields of Suffield Hardware for his support in advertising the event. This was Ledoux’s first time performing in over 29 years and according to the overwhelming response, people are asking when the next show will be!