Ben Daniels Band brings diverse sound to Concert in the Park – June 27
Originality, musicianship and a sound that spans Americana, Blues, Jazz and Rock – that’s what St. Johns Concert in the Park guests can expect when the Ben Daniels Band takes the stage June 27 at the William E. Tennant Performance Shell located in the lovely St. Johns City Park. Show time is 7 p.m.; no admission.
The band’s namesake, Ben Daniels, is a natural poet and young songwriter who went to school on Bob Dylan, Robert Johnson, and J.J. Cale, among others. His lyrics speak directly to a younger generation that hears, sees, and thinks about the very things he’s writing.
Throughout the years, BDB had toured the country several times while regularly making the rounds in the Great Lakes State. The son of actor Jeff Daniels, Ben has quietly monitored what it takes to live life as an artist. Beyond a passed down talent, the band believes in hard work, perseverance and creatively challenging themselves and their audience.
With Tommy Reifel on bass, George Merkel and Josh Silas on guitar, Wesley Fritzemeier on drums and singer/songwriter Amanda Daniels on vocals, BDB’s live show never fails to take over the venue. The band has grown to be a formidable group that sounds pleasantly familiar, yet unforgettably unique with their own views of the Blues.
Concert in the Park is sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council and the City of St. Johns with support from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. Concerts are held each Wednesday evening; rain or shine. The St. Johns Lions and Lioness Club staff a concession stand offering light refreshments.
For detailed information on the Concert in the Park series visit the CCAC web site, http://www.clintoncountyarts.org/ and check out the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell page on Facebook.
Meet local children’s author Janet Halfmann – July 10
The Clinton County Arts Council invites you to a Meet and Greet with Janet Halfmann on Tuesday, July 10 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Art Gallery, 215 N. Clinton Avenue. Enjoy chatting, light refreshments as well as a book signing. Janet will also provide a storytelling time.
Janet Halfmann’s latest children’s book, Midnight Teacher, has received another huge honor winning the “2018 Skipping Stone Award”. This is awarded to books which promote an understanding of cultures, cultivate cooperation and/or encourage a deeper awareness of nature, ecology, and diversity. They foster respect for multiple viewpoints and closer relationships within human societies.
Midnight Teacher: Lilly Ann Granderson and Her Secret School was also awarded the 2018 Silver Parents’ Choice Award. Janet’s book is based on a true story. Midnight Teacher is an inspiring testament to a little-known pioneer in education.
Another very popular book is Grandma Is a Slowpoke. This is a simple story that delivers a joyous message to young readers-let us pause, stop and be present with the creatures around us, and enjoy each moment. It was truly inspired by walks with her own grandchildren.
Janet has written and published over 11 books with another new release on the way.
The Clinton County Arts Council receives funding from the Michigan Council of Arts and Cultural Affairs.
St. Johns Independence Day celebrations set
Come to the St. Johns City Park on Wednesday, July 4th to celebrate our nation’s independence.
The band “Life Support” will be performing at 7 p.m. in the William E. Tennant Performance Shell.
The fireworks will kick off at dusk. Bring your lawn chairs for a fun filled evening.
This spectacular event is sponsored by the St. Johns Rotary Club.
Mint Festival will feature Car Show and more
Mark your calendars for the Mint Fest Downtown St. Johns on August 10th and 11th.
The festivities kick-off on Friday, August 10th at 7 pm with Miranda and the M80’s at the beverage tent.
On Saturday, August 11 the festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a market on Walker Street followed by the Mint Fest Car Show at 2 p.m. There will also be a Jeep show from 6-8 p.m. following the car show. To end the day, the Squids Band debuts at 7 p.m. at the beverage tent.
Farmer’s Market open now through October
The Downtown Farmer’s Market is now open every Saturday thru October from 8 a.m. until noon.
The market continues to be located on the west side of the Clinton County Courthouse.
Come and enjoy fresh grown produce, baked goods and homemade arts and crafts.
Habitat for Humanity schedules Bike to Build –
Clinton-Gratiot Habitat for Humanity’s annual Bike to Build event will take place on August 4. This is a family friendly bike ride with four scenic routes in the countryside of Clinton and Gratiot Counties. Riders can choose a 20 mile, 40 mile, 50 mile or 80 mile route on paved roads.
The cost is $35 per rider. The entry fee includes lunch and snacks along the way.
This event also provides the opportunity to create your own fundraiser. Registrants who raise at least $275 will receive the Bike to Build 2018 Cycling Jersey.
Attention cycling enthusiasts! Habitat heard your thoughts, and they are exited to announce that this year’s jerseys are new and improved. They have switched to a new company that makes higher quality jerseys completely in the U.S.A.
Visit the Bike to Build page at http://habitatclinton.org/get-involved-2/bike-to-build-2018/ for details and additional information.