Tommy Dorsey Orchestra swings into Poplar Bluff

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra will swing into Poplar Bluff Wednesday night to give a single, benefit performance at the Black River Coliseum for the city's Boys and Girls Club.

"We were very fortunate to get that quality of orchestra," said Calvin Rutledge, director of the Black River Coliseum. "We think it will be an evening of great fun for all."

Proceeds will go to the Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff, said Roger Hogg, a board member for the organization. The club recently had to suspend after-school activities due to lack of funding.

"We ran out of funds," Hogg said. "We're shut down right now. That's why we're having this concert. We hope to generate some funds."

Last year, some 50 children attended after-school programs with the club. Over the summer, that number grew to 70 or 80, Hogg said.

The Three Rivers Community College Jazz Band will open for the concert at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra should take the stage at about 7:30.