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Corn Roast - continued from page 3 “We called it the ‘Musicians’ Corn Roast’ because it’s a meeting place for performers. Usually, these people know each other, and this gives them a chance to catch up all together. It’s very laid-back, so they can just relax and have fun.” Every year, the event grew, as the original invitees brought friends — free of charge, pot luck, BYOB and lawn chair. In the fourth year, it exploded, and we had 600-700 people.” Ironically, the event was threatened by its own success. The Heart & Stroke Foundation withdrew insurance coverage for the “third-party charity.” Lacking insurance and facing an increased workload due to the event's size, Paul faced a stiff challenge until the Port Perry Lions Club contributed its support. “Some Lions members had attended past corn roasts, so we had a favourable audience for our presentation. In the end, they agreed to take over the food, conces- sions, and games. The proceeds went to the Lions Club, and I kept control of the entertainment aspect.” Paul also learned to, in his is words, * a smart” in order to minimize the costs of running the event. Local bt ip its to its success: Tony Janssen of Port Perry Printing creates free posters every year; Ken Byers supplies portable toilets; Ken Murray of Murray: Electric wired the site. Paul purchased a 45-foot trailer - for all intents and purposes, it was a do- nation from Oshawa’s Road Runner Equipment, he says - which now serves as a permanent stage. An armload of posters and a pair of roadside signs are the only formal promotional tools at Paul's disposal. Word of mouth takes care of the rest, ensuring the continued good health of an event which attracts people from as far away as North Carolina. Its musical lineup is traditional country. “1 do like some ‘New Country,” Paul admits, “But among those contemporary artists, I prefer the more traditional sounds like Alan Jackson and George Strait. Also, classics like George Jones and Porter Wagoner.” Recently, the scope of the Corn Roast expanded beyond music. Like the original event, this addition had its start in tragic death. “Our friends, Liz and Larry Johnson, were killed ina motorcycle accident, so the ‘show ‘n’ shine’ is dedicated to them. Asselstine’s Yamaha sponsors it.” The Corn Roast, despite tremendous growth, has retained many of its simple roots. Charlene works the gate while friends and family pitch in with various yasks. Admnission i is a mere $10 (“and we've never bothered charging | for kids,” Charl The musicians, including this year’s headliner Mike Pollard an are still “paid” solely with the enjoyment of gathering in a relaxed atmosphere with their peers. Pot luck supper has been replaced by 60 dozen ears of corn — “best in the country,” Paul declares — served by the Lions. And what would Larry Dee think of the event he inspired, still prospering in his memory 22 years later? “He'd have a good chuckle to see how it’s grown from modest beginnings, I’m sure,” Paul says. “But at the same time, I know he'd be honoured and humbled.” The 22nd annual 2009 Musicians’ Corn Roast runs from noon, Sunday, August 9, rain or shine, 4790 McKee Road, Blackstock. By Scott Mercer! Focus on Scugog’ Roast include - from top to bottom - Mike Pollard, Bill Johnson, Paul Evans, Jim and Kathy Vallancourt ENJOY SWINGIN’ sumen CONCE Wednesday evenings at Palmer Park! Bring your lawn chair and join us at the Rotary Gazebo every Wednesday evening at Palmer Park July 8 through August 12 Another FREE community event presented by... Po ERRY for a FREE evening of music and entertainment featuring ‘lle Reement some of Durham’s most requested entertainers! Highlights of the Swingin’ Summer Concert Life: s Villa at 4 Villa i ” July 8: Irwin Smith July 29: Flute Punch - Kathy 905-985-2002 July 15: Cathy Pavlik & Friends August 5: Scott Handel portpersyuilla.com July 22: Two Guys and an iPod August 12: Irwin Smith 6 FOCUS - JULY 2009