Gwinn, MI - The K.I. Sawyer Heritage Air Museum will be hosting the Voodoo Rock Jam benefit concert to raise money and awareness for its efforts to preserve the military heritage that drove much of the Upper Peninsula economy for 50 years.
"The event got its name from the Voodoo Fighter Jet. The 62nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron flew the F-101B "Voodoos" out of Sawyer from 1959 until 1971 when they were replaced by the F-106A "Delta Dart" Interceptors. This plane is a static display under out care and located at Sawyer," said Robert Vick, President of KISHAM's Board of Directors. "We want to keep the heritage alive through the event and introduce the younger generation to the heroism of so many men and women who served here."
Cherry Bombs, a local band formed in 2013 by founding members Gregg Delmet (drums/vocals) and Joe Boogren (Lead Vocalist/Rhythm Guitar) has agreed to play at the event. Other band members include Bass player Tim Gasman and, newest member, Taylor Mulye. (Lead Guitarist/Vocals). The band's music includes covers of classic rock with healthy doses of southern and country rock.
"We've heard them play and love the eclectic range of music. They play something for everyone and they do it well," said Vick.
"We're from Gwinn," said Delmet "and we grew up with the base in our backyard. We have friends who were stationed there that stayed and some that left. It's important to do what we can to keep those memories and that history alive."
The event will be held Friday, October 10, 2014 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the Silver Wings Community Center located at the museum at 402 3rd Steet, Gwinn at the former air base. Senor's Authentic Mexican Taco truck will donate 10% of the night's proceeds to KISHAM. Commemorative T-shirts, designed by LaDolce Video will be given away to the first 50 attendees with the remainder for sale.
"Additionally, we'll have a 50/50 drawing, door prizes and a fun military photo booth where you can have your picture taken with some historic props," said Vick.
"This is the first year, but we hope that each year it will grow. Eventually we would like to fill up one of the big hangars for an all-day event." said Vick.
Those interested in supporting the museum can donate at either www.crowdrise.com/kisawyermuseumbuildingpurchase or www.kishamuseum.org. The museum is open to the public Wed-Sun 1:00 to 5:00 pm and is currently free of charge.
