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Basically Bluegrass Concert & Pick-In is Aug. 2

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SPECIAL TO THE NEIGHBOR Local area pickers include Stephen Stadler, Karen Batten, Leslie Weidenheimer and Bob Shea of the Acoustic Music Society at a monthly show.

The folks at the Acoustic Music Society of Southwest Florida said there is more great pickin’ and grinnin’ in store for folks who attend their monthly Basically Bluegrass Concert & Pick-In at Lee Civic Center.

The group has held the event the first Sunday of each month there for several years, and Society president Bob Shea said it has become more and more popular.

“Our membership has grown 25 percent and our attendance has grown about 20 to 25 percent, too,” Shea said.

They plan on growing even more.

“The vice presiden,t Dick Spottswood, and I plan on contacting the various Bluegrass Associations throughout the state intending to collaborate by disseminating information on each. That could also be what talent is visiting where and sharing local bands with each other.”

Shea said in this economy, many are commenting that they appreciate this type of entertainment, which is inexpensive and fun, to help with stress.

He also said there are incredible pickers in Florida they can share.

“I can call someone and say who can you send down here and vice versa.”

On Sunday, Aug.2, the concert itself runs from 2 to 5 p.m.

“Pickers are welcome to attend the jam session under the shade tree, too,” said Shea.

There will also be music and dance from old world England before the event.

Shea said they welcomed Contra Dancers a few months ago and bringing in the dancers was very successful.

“The crowds are a listening audience,” he said. “They are devoted to the local bands and support live music. We are in the process of establishing a 501-C3 non profit. We really want to become a purveyor for the arts.”

The cost now is $6 at the gate or $25 for an annual membership. They hope to open up for free to the public in September, Shea said.

The main act is the Sawgrass Drifters.

“People love them. They are so traditional all you are missing is the scratches in the record.”

Other acts may include Myakka River from Engelwood and Bradenton; they are still confirming.

They’re looking for bands. For information on the Society, call Shea at 248-8906.

The Lee Civic Center is located at 11831 Bayshore Rd. The number there is 543-8368.