CONNEAUT —
Hours and hours of music Saturday will help provide a permanent performance venue for Conneaut’s student musicians.
Jam Fest 2012, sponsored by Conneaut Music Boosters, will feature eight bands in an all-day concert at the Evergreen Lake Park campground on Center Road. The show starts at noon and could continue a full 12 hours, said Ron LaRusch, Boosters spokesman.
The event begins with a show by the Conneaut High School Alumni Band, followed by Dive Bar All-Stars, Relay, Witz End, Family Tradition, Nightmare on Orange Street, Small Town Revolution and Full Throttle.
Cost is $10 (if camping at Evergreen), $15 in advance or $20 at the gate. Tickets are available at the campground, Burdick Plumbing and Heating, Poco Bandito, Rainbow Cafe, Harbor Beverage, Conneaut Savings Bank, Marshall’s Auto Supply and Brenda Fields (593-3940).
Proceeds will help construct a band shell and concession stand at the Conneaut school district’s SPARC athletic complex at Stadium and Maple avenues, a project estimated to cost $115,000. The shell will provide a stage for future band and choral programs.
Jam Fest is the largest fundraiser ever for the Music Boosters, LaRusch said. Evergreen Lake ownership opened up the campground for the extravaganza, offering stages and staff. It is a huge contribution, LaRusch said.
Others are also lending a financial hand to the cause. All the scheduled bands are foregoing their usual fees and turned down other offers to sing and play for the benefit, LaRusch said. Mark Morris of Morris Sound in Erie will handle sound and lighting at the show at a discount rate, LaRusch said.
Sponsors are also stepping forward, including Conneaut Telephone Co., Ron’s Roofing and Conneaut Moose Lodge 472. More sponsors are needed to help the Boosters reach their goals, LaRusch said. For sponsor information, contact Melissa Reydak at 813-7925 or at melissareydak@yahoo.com.
Food will also be available at the concert, courtesy Poco Bandito, Phil’s Catering and JD’s Pizza. More food vendors are welcome to participate.
Drawings and raffles will also be featured during the show. Roger McCoy of WYBL radio station will emcee the concert.
