The center of the universe is bound to attract a lot of things just by the sheer force of its gravitational pull, and its metaphysical, metaphorical namesake (according to bumper stickers), the Town of Easthampton, is no different. Aside from the usual artists, philosophers and gentrifying detritus, however, Easthampton's pull also seems to have attracted some well-spent grant money, a two- to three-year process culminating in the completion of the revitalized Millside Park at 2 Ferry St., and its new crown jewel, the waterside bandshell.
Once a vast, wall-to-wall concrete skate park that sported a few ollie-able slabs and one busted-up basketball hoop, the park is now largely covered in grass, features six fitness stations, a playground area, restroom facilities and two brand-new half-court basketball hoops. It is adjacent to the Manhan Rail Trail bicycle path, and by press time, the somewhat rain-delayed bandshell should be completed. An entire summer's worth of live entertainment for all ages is already booked into the facility.
Music was originally intended to begin on June 19, but the first three shows were held instead at the Pulaski Park Gazebo on the Common (on the rotary where bands have traditionally played up till now). The shell's official christening was July 8, with nationally touring bluegrass band the Doerfel Family, and upcoming highlights include the Heritage Pops Orchestra (big band/show tunes); the Lenny Gomulka Chicago Push Orchestra (polka); The Mojos (classsic rock) and Union Jack (British Invasion covers). For a full schedule, visit www.easthamptonweb.com/concerts/index.html.
All shows are free and are also taped for broadcast by Easthampton Community Access Television (channel 5). Bring your lawn chairs and snacks and enjoy some summer music on a lawn by the water.
Millside Park (a.k.a. Lower Mill Pond Park), 2 Ferry St., Easthampton. For information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at (413) 529-1440.
