June Jam a success
BY KATHY PICKENS
The Greenville Standard
The Greenville Area Arts Council (GAAC) presented their annual June Jam with the dual purpose of thanking supporters by offering a free show and to raise funds for their scholarship program through a silent auction.
The auction of goods and services generously donated by GAAC supporters began at 5:30 pm and included lovely antiques, original art by talented locals, clever crafts, plants, furniture, experiences, and more. “The auction exceeded our hopes for this year,” stated an appreciative Nancy Idland. “It was our best yet! We are so very grateful to those who donated items for auction and those who bought.”
The musical performances began at 7 p.m. with local voices including Sydney and Reagan McLain, Curk Mosley, David Norrell, Steve Norman, Vicki Till, and Kevin Pearcy.
Joining these hometown favorites was special guest Joseph Black who joined in to perform his favorite song “Elvira.”
Local music teacher Jill Marlar accompanied two of her many students. She played the guitar while Jacarter West played piano and McKinley Seale sang “Rainbow Connection.”
The headliner for the evening was Smith Distillery, a country, rock, and cover band featuring Georgiana native Gage Smith as their front man.
In addition to singing popular tunes, the group performed their original songs including “Panther Creek” which was inspired by the Butler County road of the same name.
Idland, GAAC’s creative force and the Ritz’s patron of preservation, invited attendees to marvel at the recently restored marquee, lights, and facade of the historic, beloved theater.
“The marquee project was funded by the Alabama Power Foundation, the City of Greenville Ritz surcharge funds, and Power South Energy, along with several individuals in our community and beyond who support the history that sits right here in our downtown,” commented Idland.
Brad Jones, who was involved with the painting portion of the project and is also a gifted musician, said of the experience, “Restoring the exterior of the Ritz was a success story from beginning to end, especially working with Nancy Idland. She was, as always, a joy to work with. Nancy’s heartbeat for that building and what it brings to our fair city is admirable and endearing. The end result looks like a shining city on a hill!”
Idland teased the crow by saying that her lips are currently sealed, but that she has exciting things in store for the GAAC’s next season, their 44th.
