Jackson rock garden gets rock concert tonight

The hardest part Jackson's Rock in the Rock Garden concert scheduled for tonight is helping people find it, according to Shane Anderson, director of Jackson Parks and Recreation.

"I tell them it's in the city park, near the Armory building. There's no real good reference point. I've tried telling people many things, even that it's south of Hubble Creek," he said.

Rock in the Rock Garden started last year -- a few outdoor concerts in the city park's rock garden, organized by city officials and members of Friends of the Park, which co-sponsors the concerts.

The rock garden is "a feature of the park and we wanted to make use of it," he said. "We've had as many as 150 folks there, but the whole area could take up to 300."

Tonight's free concert features Bill Booth. Anderson described Booth's music as acoustic rock and blues.

He suggested people coming to the concert bring their own chairs or blankets. Food and drink are optional. He said some people opt to bring wine or beer, but no glass containers are allowed in the park for safety reasons.

Next month's concert, set for 7 to 9 p.m. July 18, features Shade of Blue.

The city is offering its second movie at the park event this weekend. The one held last year was a hit, Anderson said. "The Rookie" will be screened at 8 p.m. Saturday. While this is also a bring-your-own-seating event, concessions will be sold.

Bill Booth will take the stage at 7 p.m. today in the Rock Garden.

Although thunderstorms are in today's forecast, Anderson said he hopes the nice weather holds.

"We don't have a rain day," he said. "If it's rained out, people will have the third concert in July."

After taking August and September off, the city will again offer live music during October's BBQ Fest, which will be in the main part of city park at Independence (Route D) and North High Street. For details on the concerts or Saturday's movie, call Jackson Parks and Recreation at 204-8848.

pmcnichol@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 127