CHRISTOPHER CROSS
As of late Friday afternoon the Christopher Cross Requests Facebook group Malcolm Pitre formed on Sunday had grown to 4,200 members.
Through the social media page group members issue “requests” for singers to load a video performing a particular song, or one of the singer’s choice. The individuals making the request promise to make a donation to the Beaton family from Alma. Gary and Kim Beaton are both experiencing serious medical issues.
Pitre, who lives in Christopher Cross, said he had initially expected it would take a considerable period of time to raise $1,000 at the suggested $5 per request, but he was able to transfer the first $2,000 to the Beatons by Wednesday. While $5 is still the most common donation, there have also been several donations of $50 and $100. He estimated Friday the campaign has now surpassed $5,000.
In response to the requests several singers have uploaded numerous songs.
Pitre said a count on Friday indicated there have already been 180 music videos loaded to the page, and he knows there will be many more, because, “there are tons of requests in there.”
The page’s founder admits he’s captivated by the response. “I’m not eve watching the Olympics,” he said, explaining he is kept entertained watching the updates on the page.
He told of hearing from a Tignish native now living in Ottawa who shared with him how much he is enjoying watching the music videos from back home.
Christopher Cross Requests
Facebook page started Sunday by Malcolm Pitre
Fundraiser for Gary and Kim Beaton and family
Approximately $5,000 raised.
4,200 members in the group as of Friday afternoon.
Already 180 music videos uploaded
Many more videos anticipated.
