Flatland Ruckus (top photo by April Rider) and LondonForce Duo (above photo by Doug Wilson) were among the live acts presented by Friends of the Howland Preserve at the annual ‘Rockin’ the River’ event.
Story by Rick Hiduk
Organizers of the fourth annual ‘Rockin’ the River’ at the Howland Preserve consider last weekend’s fundraiser a rocking success. Upwards of 400 people purchased tickets for the event, which featured live music and exhibits of paintings and photography by local artists that was available for purchase.
Bob Strunk & Dave Kuffa kicked off the afternoon of entertainment, sharing the stage prior to a performance by country-flavored Flatland Ruckus. LondonForce Duo, featuring Angelo Maruzzelli and Shannon Walling, were a big hit with their acoustic renderings of a variety of alternative and folk rock hits, as well a some original compositions.
Dallas Carter and Canary Circus wrapped up the party, with the latter keeping a number of people on their feet well after the scheduled 8 pm end of the event.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, there was music-inspired art on display by associates of members of Friends of the Howland Preserve and the Kitson Arts Alliance, as seen in photos above and below by Patrick Robinson.
“The Kitson Arts Alliance has developed a nice working relationship with Friends of the Howland Preserve,” said KAA co-founder Robinson, noting that the two groups will collaborate again on a “farm to table” event there in August. “The setting is amazing and a great venue to feature the arts, antiques and agriculture.”
Saturday’s event was preceded by a river float from Mehoopany to Vosburg Neck coordinated by Endless Mountains Outfitters.
Proceeds from “Rockin’ the River’ will be used to help maintain a growing network of hiking and biking trails situated on the 669-acre Howland Preserve, which is owned by the North Branch Land Trust. For information on upcoming events, follow Friends of the Howland Preserve on Facebook.
Moon over the Red Barn photo by Doug Wilson
Plein air painter Sarrah Dibble-Camburn works on a piece during the event. Photo by Patrick Robinson.