Purple Toad Connection

Greers Ferry summer concert series brings fun for all

When Richard and Cretia Weaver started a summer concert series three years ago, they never imagined they would be headlining future shows.

The Weavers, who manage Lacey’s Narrows Marina on Greers Ferry Lake, put together the summer concerts to give the community something to look forward to.

“We are trying to bring something fun and exciting to Greers Ferry,” Richard said. “We want to give people here something to enjoy, and hopefully bring in new visitors to the area.”

After taking music lessons as a hobby, Richard and Cretia formed their own band, Purple Toad Connection.

“My wife came up with the name on the basis that if someone doesn’t like our music, at least they will remember our name,” Richard said.

Joining Cretia on drums and Richard on rhythm guitar are singer Dana Leigh, lead guitarist Lawrence Moore and bass player Art Gomez.

“We play a mix of ’60s, ’70s, blues and current top 40 artists, such as Adele, KT Tunstall and Brandi Carlile,” Richard said.

Additional bands join the concerts throughout the summer, bringing a good mix of music for everyone to enjoy.

The Purple Toad Connection series features concerts one Saturday a month during the summer. This year’s dates are June 23, July 21, Aug. 11 and Sept. 15.

All concerts are free to the public and start at 7 p.m. in the pavilion next to Lacey’s Narrows Marina on Edgemont Road. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own coolers and lawn chairs.

“It’s a family-friendly atmosphere with something for everyone to enjoy,” Richard said.