Lansing’s Touring Folk Troubadour performs at the Brown Bag Concert Series July 16
Monte Pride is a Michigan-born, Michigan- based singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist who has become a fixture in the Lansing music scene over the years. He will be performing on the new Brown Bag Concert Series on July 16 in downtown St Johns. The hour-long concert will start at 12 noon and will be held in the Rotary Park Pavilion by the CIS Trail and Depot.
Monte first appeared on stage in 2013 during a high school talent show. His songs recall the delicate vocals of Simon and Garfunkel, with guitar-work reminiscent of Nick Drake and The Tallest Man on Earth. He blends haunting melodies and vivid lyricism, bringing to life a complex array of soul stirring songs.
“Monte’s rustic sound tastefully echoes the sounds of many inspirational musicians from the past, but is delivered in his own distinctive style,” says Bill Tennant, concert coordinator. “He, over the years, has grown into a much sought-after musician performing at such prestigious events as the Wheatland Music Festival, the Ten-Pound Fiddle Concert Series, and others.”
This concert is being presented by the Clinton County Arts Council and is made possible by a grant from the St Johns Area Community Fund using gifts received from The Forest and Doris Swatman Trust.
The concert is open to the public free of charge and will be held rain or shine. Some picnic tables are available for the lunchtime concert, but it is advisable to bring your favorite lawn chair. Social distancing and safety precautions are strongly encouraged.
Don’t forget to check out and support the Brown Bag Specials from the following downtown businesses below.\:
Bruno’s Bar, Main Street Café, Swany’s Pub & Grub, St Johns Brewing Co, Dershey’s Café, Domino’s Pizza, Global Coffee Co, Waypoint Coffee Company, Mazz’s Endzone Party Store, Oh Mi Organics, Cupcakes and Kisses
SJPD welcomes new officer

Last week the St. Johns Police Department welcomed the newest member of the department, Officer Mahar. He is seen here receiving the oath of office from St. Johns Clerk Mindy Sevey.
Chamber to hold annual Golf Outing August 25

The Clinton County Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual Golf Outing at the Emerald Golf Course on Wednesday, August 25, 2021. You do not need to be from a business or a member of the Chamber to participate in this 4-person scramble.
The cost is $290 for your team, and that includes continental breakfast, golf carts, 18 holes of golf, contests, goodie bags, lunch and prizes. Tee-off is at 8:30 a.m.
You can print off the Golf Registration Form at www.clintoncountychamber.org/events, send an email to ccchamber@4wbi.net or you may call the Chamber of Commerce at 989-224-7248 to request a form.
The Chamber office is currently under construction, but all emails and phone messages are being monitored offsite.
Detroit Surf Band performs at the Concert in the Park series July 14
SURF ZUP is on a mission to bring back the great guitar instrumental hits from the ’60s. This entertaining group will be performing on this year’s Concert in the Park series on Wednesday evening, July 14 starting at 7:00 in the William E. Tennant Performance Shell in the beautiful St. Johns City Park.
“SURF ZUP is modeled after the most famous best-selling instrumental Rock Band of all time, the Ventures,” comments Bill Tennant, series coordinator. “They reach people with their great energy, driving home their powerful guitar and drum sound in songs like Hawaii Five-0, Wipe Out and others. It’s really infectious.”
Members of the group include Jack DeFranco, guitarist, who performed for a while with The Ventures, Al Carmichael, guitarist, Ken Murphy, drums and Dennis Kiraga, bass guitarists – all highly regarded Detroit musicians with nationally touring experience. The band, formed in 2012, is true to the original works, using vintage guitars, amps, effects and playing styles, just like it was 1963.
The concert is sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council and the City of St. Johns. It is open to the public free of charge but donations are gratefully accepted.
All concerts are presented rain or shine. The Lion’s Club food trailer will be available this year. Social distancing and safety precautions are strongly encouraged.
The CCAC receives funding from the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Swiss steak Fundraiser dinner is Saturday, July 17
American Legion Post 153 is sponsoring a Swiss steak Fundraiser dinner on Saturday, July 17 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. or until all is gone.
The consists of Swiss Steak, au gratin potatoes, vegetable, salad, roll, and dessert for $10.00 The beverage not included.
dine in or take out (989-224-7282)
Open to the public; you do not need to be a Legion Family member to attend the dinner.
50/50 raffle drawing at 7:00 p.m.
Proceeds from beverages benefit the Lounge. Proceeds from the meal benefit the ALA 8th District Leadership Development Fund.
The Legion Hall is located at 110 E. Walker St., St. Johns, MI
SJHS Auto Show is July 17
The date set for the St. Johns Auto Program 50th Anniversary Celebration is July 17.
They will be working on getting all the cool stuff they had scheduled before we had to reschedule due to the pandemic. They also expect to have Rhino Dyno coming, so get those engines tuned up for a good time.