On the eve of the 7th Annual Rockin’ for the Troops, Deb Rickert took the opportunity to thank volunteers, sponsors and ticket-holders for their commitment to the event and to the men and women that it serves.
As if the executive director of Operation Support Our Troops-America didn’t have enough to do before Rockin’ rolls into Cantigny Park from noon to 11PM, Sat., July 21, Rickert took time to be grateful.
“Thanks especially to our Rockin’ team led by Dawn Scarborough and Mike Barbour and our Admin team led by Barb Giacomino—all who have put in many long hours leading up to this exciting day,” wrote Rickert.
Rickert encourages all who attend “to pause and take in what you have been a part of building. You have made a difference in more lives than you can possibly know.
“We want people to know that we appreciate their support of this event,” she added. “And it goes without saying, please pause to remember all those serving that grant us the freedom we have to enjoy this day!”
On the housekeeping side, concert-goers are urged to be mindful to pick up after themselves. All assistance at the end of the show to walk through the field and pick up trash will be most appreciated.
Also, drink plenty of water, wear a hat and remember to apply sunblock frequently. Temperatures are expected to be cooler than in recent weeks, but still warm at the peak of the day.
Here are a few file photos of the Main Stage at Cantigny Park from the 2011 Rockin’ for the Troops. (Click any photo to enlarge. Use arrows to advance.)
Gates open at 12PM with food vendors, expo exhibits, outreach tents, family-friendly activities and a beer garden.
Main Stage music begins at 2;30PM with John Howell & the Born to Boogie Band, followed by Isabela Nanni. From 4 – 5PM, 7th Heaven plays, followed at 5:30 by Erin Viancourt.
Opening ceremonies run 5:45 – 6:15PM. The Voices (pictured here, bottom row center) with Deb Rickert during last year’s concert) take the stage from 6:45 to 8:15PM.
After 30 minutes of raffle drawings, Cantigny Park will rock for two hours from 9-11PM with headliner Gary Sinise & The Lt. Dan Band.
Cantigny Park is located at 1S151 Winfield Road in Wheaton. Tickets are $25 each.
For more information about all of the Rockin’ festivities, visit www.rockinforthetroops.org.
For an overview of the growth of Operation Support Our Troops America, visit www.osotamerica.org.
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Earlier on Friday, Veronica Porter submitted a 42-second video promo produced by Porter Productions with photography by Jim Hoch.
