A new season is on for the very popular Huntington Rogue River Blues series offered by Huntington Bank, the City of Rockford and the Rockford Area Arts Commission. On Tuesday, June 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. the public is invited to enjoy the free concert on the banks of the Rogue River at Garden Club Park as the Jimmie Swagger Band kicks off the 10-week summer series. The event is sponsored for the third year by Huntington Bank, which provides funding and also hosts a booth with free giveaways at each concert.
Pictured holding the Huntington Bank Rogue River Blues Series banner are Holly Globke, Dan Bloemers, Julia Ricards, Katie Radike, Sheila Wixon, Paul Chimienti and Susan Hughes.
Paul Chimienti, branch manager for the local Huntington Bank at 6835 Belding Rd., said the concert is popular with people of all ages. “We have ages 5 to 85 who love to go,” he said. “Sponsoring the Blues Series is part of Huntington’s continued commitment to our local Rockford community.”
Chimienti attributes the cost of the concerts—free—to their popularity, but said people also enjoy the beautiful setting, the chance to visit downtown Rockford, and the free giveaways are also a draw.
The family-oriented concert series provides outstanding musical entertainment. The public is invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets, and pair the concert with a visit to local shops or restaurants. The first seven weeks of the series feature blues bands, with other musical talent the final three concerts.
A suggestion for parking is the South Squires parking lot, accessed from Bridge Street entrance between Vitale’s and J.T. Stitchery, or from Main Street down to north of the Rogue Valley Towers building. A short, pleasant walk on the White Pine Trail is also an access option.
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