Rock out in the park with concert series

Eager for summer vacation? South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District Director Suzette Hart is.

Along with district staff, she is planning a series of four free concerts in South Whidbey Community Park this summer.

"The concerts will be family oriented and are planned from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We are hoping people will pack a picnic or snack, grab a blanket or folding chair and come to the park for an evening of fun," Hart said.

Concessions will also be available from the district's new concessionaire, Shirley Wilson, owner of Shirley's Kitchen in Clinton.

Hart said she planned the concerts for a week night because weekends are "very precious" to people.

The four concerts will occur between Choochokam Arts Festival and the Island County Fair. They will be funded by the district and local sponsors. The district will pick up $2,000 of the cost.

The cost of the performers is $2,400, so Hart is looking for businesses and individuals who would be interested in sponsoring a concert or the series.

The series sponsorship package is $2,000.

For that, a business' name and logo will appear on a stage banner, on 250 event posters, in 3,000 recreation guides, five South Whidbey Record event ads, 1,500 school flyers and on the park district's Web site.

For a single concert sponsorship package of $500, a business' name and logo will appear on 250 event posters 3,000 recreation guides, event signage, in one newspaper ad and will be announced at the concert.

Public address recognition of sponsors will be given at all events.