Families and music lovers alike took to the mainstage on Wednesday for the Mill Creek Band’s performance following two consecutive weeks of rained out Music on Main. The concert, free and open to the public, honored the memory of longtime Solon servant Scott Kleppe, and also celebrated the Solon Public Library’s 25th anniversary in their current facility.
“I think it’s a great way to be part of the community and see your neighbors and get to enjoy a free event,” said Megan Richardson, the library’s current director since April. She and board members of the library came out early to set up a table, handing out bottles of water and popsicles in honor of the anniversary.
Their presence Wednesday night also came with a fun reminder.
“That was the first library for Solon, was under the bandstand,” points Richardson as Mill Creek Band performs a sound check.
The library has gone through multiple moves since, traveling from the cramped confines of the bandstand’s basement, over to the now Deeney Law Firm before occupying what is currently the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office substation. Finally, because of generous donations, the library has its own building to call home, just up the road on Main Street.
After attendees found shade to place their folding chairs, the Mill Creek Band broke out with soulful and energetic covers. The night ranged from sounds of The Beatles to Tracy Chapman, going as far as a rock and roll cover of Bee Gees hit: Stayin’ Alive.
“That’s why we like to do this every year because it’s their hometown,” said drummer David Gugliano about the original members of Mill Creek Band. Ken Beck, Curtis Hendrickson, and James McAtee have called Solon home for years, and playing Music on Main each summer has become tradition.
“Playing at the Solon main stage that’s been here forever, it kind of makes you feel good about what you’re doing,” adds Gugliano.
Good feelings were at the heart of Wednesday’s performance, with Tom and Ronda Roskos, coming out to relax and enjoy the night’s music.
“Solon, it’s a small town so this is what it’s all about,” said Tom.
The Mill Creek Band will return to the bandstand for Beef Days on Saturday, July 18.