First Posted: 6/23/2014

The Mace in Dickson Band kicked off the second-annual Lakeside Concert Series last week, and this week, concertgoers can expect something a little different with the sounds of Kenny McGraw’s Brass and Ivory Orchestra, featuring Chris DiMatteo.

The bandstand set up by the pavilion will allow the sounds of the 11-piece band to echo throughout the 100-acre park.

Hillside Park, formerly Abington Area Community Park, has made major improvements in the last few years. Changes that have helped bring the community together include the lakeside pavilion, boardwalk and trail, Dog Park, artificial turf field, Community Garden, and Boundless Playground.

This concert series fits right in with the goals of the Abington Area Joint Recreation Board (AAJRB) to provide wholesome activities and entertainment to local residents of all ages and interests.

Last week, concertgoers got the chance to canoe on Lake Eston Wilson. Through the efforts of Rich Kubick of the Abington Lions, canoeing will be offered every week, weather permitting. The Abington Lions will be back serving up classic summer cookout food and donating a portion of their proceeds to the park. Sharon Burke, Visual Art Coordinator, recommends art enthusiasts “take time to check out the featured work of talented local artists whose work will be on display.”

If you missed the sounds of Mace in Dickson at last week’s concert, you can catch a recording of their Hillside Park performance on Electric City TV. Filmed by videographer Skip Ward, each performance will be broadcast multiple times every week by ECTV (local channel 19 or 61).

Growing popularity of these shows means concertgoers should arrive early to find a parking spot and seat in the pavilion or picnic tables.

“Many people just bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, or simply their dancing shoes for the evening concert,” said Lori Harris, concert manager.