Rockin' for Research

Rock-A-Thon teams will 'earn' donations as bands entertain

For the Cumberland Times-News

CUMBERLAND - The first ALS Rockin' for Research event will be held today in the Allegany County Fairgrounds Multi-Purpose Building beginning at 7 p.m.

The Rock-A-Thon has been organized to promote awareness of the fatal neuromuscular disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), better known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Teams have been formed throughout the community over the past month to raise money for ALS research and will rock in rocking chairs all evening to "earn" their donations.

The event is opened to the public and all are invited to come out and enjoy the entertainment and show their support in fighting this devastating disease.

Entertainment is being provided by four music groups who have volunteered to perform during the event.

Generation Gap is a local southern/classic rock band formed by three current seniors and one recent graduate of Beall High School. Their musical genre includes classics from Lynyrd Skynard, Aerosmith, Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, as well as some country favorites from Johnny Cash and Hank Williams Jr.

The group has made several appearances at Friday After Five in downtown Cumberland, and at local clubs. Members of the band are Dan Bible, rhythm guitar and lead vocals; Cody Bittinger, lead guitar; Clinton Durney, bass guitar; and Travis Hitchins, drums.

Teal Steel is a steel drum ensemble created in January 2004. The group, consisting of Frankfort Middle School students, performs Caribbean and Latin style music as well as pop tunes, classic rock songs and folk music.

Teal Steel has already performed for many audiences at concerts, festivals, and special events throughout the area. Members of Teal Steel gain valuable experiences from performances, traveling as a group, and learning how to prepare for a "gig." The steel drum band offers students an opportunity for improvisation and individual input into creating their music.

Appalachia is a four-piece bluegrass band that showcases tight harmony vocals and exciting instrumental capabilities. The group has been en-tertaining audiences together in the tri-state region for the past five years. Venues include numerous fairs and festivals, churches, private parties, fund-raisers and various contests. Appalachia has recorded two albums of mostly original material, "Country, Yes I am" and "A Good Life." Currently the group is wrapping up its first gospel album.

They have been referred to as "a unique and refreshing blend of music and ministry." Heirborn Promise represents the combined talent of three individuals who are singers, songwriters, and musicians, as well as clear, relevant communicators of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

They are known for delivering their music and message with a sincerity and sensitivity that prompts you to "listen with your heart." Featuring the husband and wife team of Brett and Darlene Scott and friend Kevin Shreve, their experience spans two decades of ministry in music and evangelism. Their musical abilities, commitment to ministry, and unquestionable professionalism have given them a "platform" to proclaim their faith in all venues and denominations.

"Nobody plays that song." "I haven't heard that song in years." "Wow, that brings back memories." These are typical responses upon hearing one of the area's newest musical groups, 33 and 1/3. The premise is simple ... play music from a time when there were no compact discs. We're talking music from the 1950s through the early '80s. This is music that most of us have grown up with.

Music has the ability to send a person back to a particular place in time, and allows him to forget about the stresses of the day ... at least for a period of time. 33 and 1/3 consists of Jim Corley, singer, Jim Rowan and Ray Wagner, guitarists. Their music includes the Doobie Brothers, Herman's Hermits, The Beatles, Jimmy Buffett, Meatloaf and many more.

The Rockin' for Research event is free and open to the public. Food will be available to purchase during the evening provided by local vendors including DaVinci's Pizza, Curtis' Famous Wieners, Chic-Fil-A and Oscar's.

Other events being planned throughout the evening include raffles, door prizes and a bake sale. A children's play area will be set up and entertainment for the children includes a magic show, hair braiding, tattoos, story time, video games, movies and puzzles/games .

Adult activities will include manicures, Texas Hold 'Em poker, movies and games.

Area businesses have donated items that will be raffled. They include donations from area businesses and in-clude restaurant certificates, lodging, car detailing, rocking chair and more.