Hi friends,

Many of you knew Skully, part of our extended DelFest and High Sierra family for the past two decades.

Skully, aka David Leschinsky, grew up in Quincy and was one of those solid, behind-the-scenes people who kept everything going. A little rough around the edges but with a heart of gold, he lived life on his own terms: working as a roadie, stagehand, handyman, electrician, plumber, backstage go-to, and all-around resourceful guy who could fix just about anything. Through it all, he raised a beloved daughter, Camryn, who has also become family to many of us.

Skully passed away unexpectedly last week at age 59. Like many who get by on gig work and odd jobs, he left behind no savings or insurance. He was also the full-time caretaker for his mom, Shirley, who now finds herself suddenly alone.

Shirley lives on a very limited fixed income, and without David's help, her basic expenses exceed her income by several hundred dollars each month. We have stepped in to help stabilize things so she can remain safely in her home while we work to put longer-term support systems in place.

As part of this, we're creating a short-term stabilization fund to cover the next 6–9 months and take care of immediate and essential needs, including:

Critical overdue bills

End-of-life expenses

PG&E (gas and electricity)

Home mortgages and insurance

Groceries and household basics

Transportation/errands

Safety and winter necessities (firewood, snow removal)

Our goal is to keep Shirley safe, warm, and supported while she grieves the sudden loss of her son, and while we determine sustainable solutions.

Many of you worked alongside Skully, grew up with him in Quincy, or knew him from the festival community. Some of you may remember helping the family when they were faced with losing Shirley's home a couple of years ago. We're aware this ask feels all too familiar, but David's sudden death has created an entirely new crisis - Shirley has lost her entire support system. This is a moment where we can collectively show up for Skully, and for Camryn, by ensuring mom/grandma is cared for.

If you feel moved to contribute, any amount helps. Every dollar will go directly toward Shirley's immediate needs only, and we will share updates along the way.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for being the kind of community that takes care of its people long after the stage lights have gone down.

Bradshaw and Debbie