Hale's Porch Party: A Harmonious Celebration of Community and Music

Last month, the Hale town Gazebo played host to a vibrant celebration of music, as the community came together to participate in the annual Play Music on the Porch Day. This event, which saw the gathering of around seventy-five people, marked Hale's first official involvement in the global initiative that encourages people worldwide to pause and revel in the joy of music.

Uniting Hale Through the Power of Music

Bringing Hale to the Forefront

The event was organized by Long Lake resident and musician Kristi Major, who saw it as an opportunity to put Hale on the map and provide the community with a chance to experience a diverse array of talented musicians. The lineup featured the outstanding blues harmonica player Leon "Blew" McGuire and his band, Blues by the Drop, as well as the well-known Sand Lake guitarist "KJ" Kurt Summerville, who captivated the audience with his renditions of classic 70s and 80s hits.

A Harmonious Afternoon

The afternoon was filled with a delightful variety of music, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for all in attendance. The event's success was further bolstered by the presence of local food vendors, who offered up mouthwatering smash burgers and refreshing, freshly squeezed lemonade, adding to the overall festive ambiance.

Fostering Community Connections

The event's impact extended beyond the musical performances, as it served as a platform for community bonding and cultural expression. Long Lake residents Jim and Debbie Walz, who attended the event with their granddaughter Abby, expressed their enthusiasm for the prospect of this becoming an annual tradition, praising the event's excellent organization and its unique contribution to the Hale social scene.

Driving Cultural Unity

The event's significance was further underscored by the presence of music and film writer/producer J. David Parrett, who traveled from Grayling with his wife Kari and granddaughters. Parrett emphasized the event's ability to foster unity, strengthen community bonds, and provide a shared space for cultural connection and expression, highlighting the broader impact of such community-driven initiatives.

Capturing the Moment

As is tradition, videos of the musicians' performances were posted to the event's Facebook page, playmusicontheporchday.com, allowing the community and beyond to relive the magic of the day and share in the celebration of music.

A Harmonious Future

The success of Hale's inaugural participation in Play Music on the Porch Day has set the stage for a promising future, where the community can look forward to an annual tradition that brings people together, celebrates local talent, and fosters a deeper sense of unity and cultural appreciation.