Concert series livens Ely Square

Residents gathered around Ely Square’s gazebo in downtown Elyria to enjoy live music and sunshine July 19.

People danced near the square’s fountain to the music played by the band called The Rhythm Syndicate Unplugged.

The band is one of 11 that will play this summer during the square’s Summer Concert Series — provided by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

The Rhythm Syndicate Unplugged consists of five men who play soul, Motown, classic rock and a touch of blues and swing.

However, a trio of the group performed July 19 during their visit to Ely Square.

Some visitors had their own picnics while others were relaxed, danced and sang along to the music.

Guests from Wesleyan Village, an assisted living home, were in attendance.

Debbylynn Botos, activities coordinator at Wesleyan Village, said a group of residents attend every Thursday.

Botos said the residents enjoy the concert series because they can enjoy fresh air and music.

She recalled, last week, a band called Malt Shoppe Memories brought joy to the guests who packed the park.

“It’s great to see everyone enjoying themselves through music,” Botos said. “It makes you feel good and it’s good for your health.”

Ruth Fyffe, 79, an Elyria resident, said she has attended the concert series since it began over 10 years ago.

Fyffe said she has lived in Elyria her entire life and said she’s never seen Ely Square so full of excitement.

She said the summer concerts are relaxing for her and gives her an excuse to get out and enjoy the weather.

Fyffe said multiple performers play music she

likes, but she said she enjoys country music the most.

Clients from REM Ohio, The Mentor Network, also attend the concert series.

The Mentor Network is a health and human services provider that helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, job seekers facing employment challenges and individuals with other complex needs, according to its website.

Bre Cross, a direct support professional for The Mentor Network, said the concerts gets the clients outside for a while.

“It’s something fun we can all do together,” Cross said.

And the performances are great, too, she said.

The Summer Concert Series shows are free admission and takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursdays, until Aug. 16.

To see the dates and list of performers, visit www.cityofelyria.org/ department/parks/ summer-concert-series/