The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Summer concert series kicks off
Music lovers gathered in Ely Square on June 17 to listen to music as part of the summer concert series.
The group Gems Ensemble played jazz as folks ate lunch and propped up lawn chairs in the downtown square.
Brandon Banes, a resident of Lorain and a semiprofessional musician, said he enjoyed his time at the concert.
“I like listening to the music out here,” Banes said. “It’s great and free entertainment.”
Banes, who plays the guitar, tambourine and drums, said it’s important to pay attention to local artists and their projects.
“I like to come out and see local talent,” he said. “It’s very important to support local musicians.”
Elyria resident Jen Fought brought her family to listen to the music in the park.
Fought, 40, said it’s been a family tradition for years to come and eat lunch together and enjoy the tunes.
“It’s nice,” she said.
“We’re out here hanging out and visiting with cousins we haven’t seen in a long time.
“We love them. It’s fun to do during the summer, and it’s something to do with the little ones.”
Fought said she appreciates the effort and dedication Elyria city officials have put into hosting events in the area.
“I appreciate this a lot,” she said. “The downtown square is always beautiful and gives you a place to bring generations together.”
Laura Jackson, 43, said she enjoyed the concerts.
Currently a resident of San Jose, Calif., Jackson said she had memories of growing up in the city and enjoying the area.
“As a kid, I loved coming down here,” she said. “It was so active.
“There was a bit of time where it wasn’t active. But, it’s nice to see it get back up there again.”