Ravenna – A cool breeze lofted through the historic district of Meridian and Main Street. The amplified echo of a guitar hovered in the air as listeners nodded their heads to the pulse of the beat and silently lip-synced their favorite songs as the band played on and on.
It was a great evening for music enthusiasts, corn hole players and fun seekers on Saturday night at the Ravenna Rocks Concert. Various genres of music started at 4pm and continued until well after 10 o’clock. The level of enjoyment was high as demonstrated by the CLE Rock Bar band that fed off the response of the crowd. Each rip of the cords and beat of the drum carried with it a reminiscence of special meaning.
One onlooker, bobbing her head to Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” was Joan Pahls. “This my favorite event all year round and I’m happy to see it growing,” she said. As a person with mobility issues, Pahls stressed how appreciative she was of inclusiveness for all people since she and her service dog Sky, a female Huskimo, were front row in the audience enjoying the music; sitting on her motorized chair. Also, she was there in memory of her brother, Drew Pahls, for whom an amazing Epiphone Les Paul guitar raffle is being held. The winner will be announced at the October 7th concert.
The Corn Hole tournament, a new venture to come try, was overseen by A.J. Wade of Main Street Winery and Brewery. About 12 teams entered to compete in the matches which lasted an hour and a half. First place got $100 in a trophy; 2nd place $50 and 3rd place $30.
He expressed excitement for the games and thanked everyone who showed up to participate. “Since this is the first time we’ll learn and grow from the experience,” Wade said. “We want more people to come out for next time.”
Approximately, 30 cars from counties all over northeast Ohio showed up for the Cruise-In, which was run by Jim Wade. “My favorite car was the 1974 Cutlass Salon because I met my wife in that car,” he said affectionately. The hope will be for the Cruise-In to evolve into a Car Show in the future.
Unique vendors were present to connect with the community; while working together to support each other. Laurie Brassard of Callie’s Toy Box, named for her daughter, was there selling jewelry and walking balloons. She said it was a great day for the community in addition to letting Callie and friend Ella experience a lesson on how to run a business.
The smell of food induced a mouthwatering effect as the tantalizing fragrance swept through town. June Calhoun and son Jerome, of Papa June’s BBQ, were busy grilling and dishing out orders for chicken, pork ribs, and collard greens. June said it’s great to see the turnout for the event and how all the vendors had worked together.
The sight of Sierra Hughes, a Ravenna resident, swaying back and forth on her RipStick skate board through the crowd as “In My Hands” by Fuel sounded out, enhanced the feel of the concert. “I’m just a local Mom trying to do her thing” she said with a smile. “Seeing the community come out together and put aside differences to enjoy life is amazing.”
The drummer smacked the metal snare as “Stars and Stripes” by Neil Young reverberated into the audience. Sierra swooped by in a sleek movement and reached her hands out creating the peace symbol and ending the night on a high note.
Director of the Area Chamber of Commerce, Ryann Cline, explained the whole event went more smoothly than last year. As they fine tune it the concerts will only get better. Mark your calendars for the next Ravenna Rocks Concerts coming up on August 12th and October 7th.
“When hosting events like this the city is promoted in a positive manner which helps us all move forward successfully.”
There are still sponsorships available for businesses wishing to contribute and get their name out in support of Ravenna. Contact the Chamber at Ryann@RavennaAreaChamber.com or call 330-296-3886. Visit RavennaAreaChamber.com for more information about the Chamber, their events, and becoming a member.
