By Paul Schock

Over time and through speaking with various members of our community, I have found one common denominator in many conversations: Scott City needs to cater more to the youths and the family unit in our community. The consensus would be that we need to integrate more family and youth activities in our area. I agree wholeheartedly with this idea. That is the purpose of Music Fest '09.

In my years of traveling and living in various countries and places here in the U.S., I have found that nothing brings a community together like summer. I was, and still am, fascinated by the stories that people in the area have told me -- stories about Scott City hosting block parties complete with live music and DJs. It gave me insight into the minds of the constituents of this area. It would seem that no one has forgotten what great times they have had and how wonderful it would be to have those days back. I don't see why not.

If our community can work together, I firmly believe that we have what it takes as a community to work together and build an outdoor auditorium in Scott City Park where everyone can have a great view of the events while sitting on a hill looking right down upon the stage. This would create a summer packed full of events that we can all enjoy and relive the great memories of the past. At the same time we could make new memories and set the stage for the future of our city.

In years to come we will be able to go to the park and not only have classical concerts to attend, but plays and movies, allow touring concerts and local entertainers and performers. Providing a place where artists of all caliber and stature from amateur to professional to be displayed. Scott City is home to a small band shelter. However, the design and location is suitable for smaller venues but not so much for the larger ones.

The Scott City Kiwanis, Scott City Park, local musicians and Schock's Pub are working together to raise money to build an outdoor stage. We know it will take some time to raise the money needed to complete this endeavor, but the hope is to plan events over time to help contribute to the funding that, in turn, will help create the atmosphere of different environments right here in Scott City.

In addition. the Scott City Park Board and staff should be given much credit for all the work they have contributed in our community for making Summer Fest something will grow and be enjoyed for many years to come and what we as a community can be extremely proud of.

Also, the Kiwanis have just finished building a new shelter at the park in memory of Donnie Roth. The Kiwanis are looking forward to helping with the park and having the community come together to build the stage.

Admission to Summer Fest '09 is $3. Gates open at noon June 27 with performances starting from 12:30 to 7:15 p.m. We will have a fun-filled day. Bring your lawn chairs. We do not allow outside food and beverages at the concert. The Kiwanis and Scott City Park will have food, soda and water for sale. Schock's Pub will offer beer. There will be an open jam session at Schock's Pub following the show at 9 p.m.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Paul Schock at tucson444@yahoo.com or call 573-587-1404.