END OF SUMMER CONCERT WILL FEATURE SIX BANDS

The Cape Girardeau Parks & Recreation Department is planning a concert to top all concerts as a way to send summer packing.

A Country-Pop Showcase on Sept. 27 will feature seven bands that will perform in Capaha Park. The family-oriented concert is free.

"It's an opportunity to spend a day in the park and listen to some good music," said Penny Wingerter, recreation coordinator for the parks department.

"And it's a great chance to come out and enjoy the park before the end of summer."

The seven bands will play at the park band shell. Listeners are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Limited seating will be available.

Mary-Ann Malony of KFVS will MC at least part of the concert, said Mitch Herod, who is helping coordinate the concert.

The concert starts at 2 p.m. with the band Nite Shift. They will be followed by Country 105 at 3 p.m.; Almost Country at 4 p.m.; Heartland Songwriters at 5 p.m.; Decade at 6 p.m.; the Southland Band at 7 p.m. and Tufa at 8 p.m.

All the bands are donating their time, Wingerter said.

"It's not often that the parks department gets to present an event that doesn't cost us anything," she said. Budget cuts kept the number of outdoor concerts to a minimum this year, she said.

"But the bands are donating their time," she said. "The greatest reward we could get is a really big crowd."

Wingerter said if the event is a success, it will likely be presented annually.

"It's something the whole family can come out and enjoy," she said.

A concession stand will offer soft drinks and food.