County Seat Newspaper
of Clare County

First Ever Rock the Dock Live Concert on 9/11 a Huge Success

Posted

First Ever Rock the Dock Live Concert on 9/11 a Huge Success

This past Saturday, Sept. 11, marked the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attack on New York City, the Pentagon and United Flight 93 and has since been named “Patriot Day.” In honor of the first responders, veterans, and military who served that day, the Harrison Chamber of Commerce organized and promoted a live music concert at Saxton Park on Budd Lake – the first of its kind. Dubbing it “Rock the Dock,” the concert was intended to be a place for the community to come together and celebrate our freedom, enjoy some music, and to let those families who lost a loved one on that fateful day know that “We Will Never Forget.”

Gates opened at 4 p.m. as people gathered in the beer tent, on the dock, and in the grassy area in the shade and waited for the music to begin. Local band favorite "Southbound" began the concert on top of the concrete block building (known by locals as the “Powerdock”) with a few words about remembering the lives lost on 9/11, followed by a beautiful prayer that was led by band member Scott Moore, and kicked off the music with an acoustic version of Lee Greenwood's “Proud to be an American.”

As the night continued, Southbound entertained the crowd of approximately 175 (not counting those on their decks or boats on the lake) with a blend of southern rock, classic rock, some Jimmy Buffet, and a smattering of other genres. As one person in attendance exclaimed, “I know every one of these songs! This is awesome!”

The Chamber of Commerce had gathered promotional items from area businesses and organizations to be hurled to the crowd, which they did several times throughout the concert, much to the delight of the crowd below. Amy's Country Cafe was on hand to serve up some food: her nachos, burgers and enormous onion rings being a crowd favorite.

The beer tent was buzzing with happy customers repeating what a great time they were having, and commenting about how much the community needed this. Friends played cornhole while listening to the music, drinking a beer, smiling, and enjoying the beautiful weather.

The Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a huge thank you to Steve Bonham Insurance for sponsoring the band – some of whom were his buddies dating back to high school! Other sponsors who jumped on board to offer their assistance included Countryside Campground, Faber's Barber Shop, Hometown Smokehouse BBQ, The Clare County Cleaver, Jackpine Restaurant, Michael Henry Tree Service, Hardy Insurance, and Walraven's Market. On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers, board members, and the band – and the supporters who attended the concert and enjoyed themselves.

Most of all, thank you to those who served and continue to serve this great nation. We appreciate all of you!

Kristine Stevens, president

Harrison Chamber of Commerce

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here