Saturday, May 30, 2009
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Two patrons listen to the Allies as Bill and Ray Sound Adventures engineers the music on Friday evening as part of the Party on the Plaza in Federal Plaza downtown.
The music went on after the showers.
YOUNGSTOWN — Five hours of great music on a late spring night in the heart of the city.
Who wouldn’t like it?
Mother nature, apparently, who provided heavy rain and strong winds just before 10 a.m. Friday as the Party on the Plaza kicked off the downtown outdoor entertainment season.
Buffalo Wild Wings opened downtown 15 years ago. This event was the bar and restaurant’s 14th year of involvement, according to Doug Esenwein, the regional manager for BWW.
Construction and other problems last year created some problems but Esenwein said of the program, “It was no different than any other year.”
The band “Allies” was to play for two hours to kick off the event, followed by Acoustic Juggernaut for three hours, starting at 10:30 p.m., with a well-deserved break during the set.
Acoustic Juggernaut is a Youngstown band.
“They’ve been very successful opening for us in the past, “Esenwein said. “They deservedly have a following because they’re the band with the big act.”
“Allies” is a three-man band that grew out of another band, he said.
Overall, Esenwein said, “It’s all mainstream stuff that appeals to everyone who likes great party music.”
The events will continue through Sept. 11, including a concert on July 3 to prime people for the Fourth of July.
The crowd was happy with the entertainment.
Julie Halaparda of Boardman said it was her first time at the party, adding, “A lot of people must come here.”
Her friend, Jamie Campbell, also of Boardman, had her two children with a baby-sitter while she enjoyed a night out.
Joe Baker of Youngstown was enjoying a cool libation while listening to the music. He said he’s been coming to the party for 10 years.
“It’s getting better,” he said.
Last year was a pain because construction problems shuffled the locale, he noted.
Trudy Keyse of Canfield was also having a good time.
“It’s great music,” she said.
Radio personality A.C. McCullough from WHOT-101 FM was the emcee. Before beginning his duties, he said he hadn’t been to the party for a while, but he had been to various games at the nearby Covelli Centre.
People, he said, should realize the amenities that are available in the city.
Esenwein, “There’s something special about the area.”