The Rowan Big Band All-Stars under the direction of Dr. Ron Turbyfill will perform Friday as a fund-raiser for Communities In Schools of Rowan County. The event will be co-sponsored by Apple Baking Co. and Cheerwine.
The event, called the “Apple Baking/Cheerwine Kick-Off to Summer Benefit Concert,” will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. at the F&M Trolley Barn in downtown Salisbury. The event is free, but donations are appreciated. Door prize items are available with the purchase of a raffle ticket, and drawings will be conducted hourly.
The band, which consists of professional musicians, played for two CIS fund-raisers last year. A variety of music will be featured, including classics from the 1930s and 1940s.
CIS is a non-profit United Way Agency that served more than 2,500 children and their families in 2008. CIS offers in-school mentoring and tutoring, guidance to students and their parents, transportation, school uniforms and school supplies.
CIS oversees more than 200 volunteers working with at-risk students. Communities In Schools receives funds from the Blanche and Julian Robertson Family Foundation, Margaret C. Woodson Foundation, Juvenile Justice Prevention Council, Department of Public Instruction, Rowan-Salisbury School System, Speedway Children’s Charities, Salisbury Community Foundation, Target Foundation and CIS of North Carolina/National.
“Our organization is so fortunate to have the sponsorships of Apple Baking and Cheerwine as well as the donation of the Trolley Barn from F & M Bank. We couldn’t conduct a fundraising event of this nature without these kind people,” stated Vicky Slusser, executive director of Communities In Schools.
Apple Baking Co. of Salisbury makes pastries, including the Ugly and Cheerwine cakes and cake slices, which are sold in the Southeast and Midwest. In honor of the company’s 25th year, pastries will be available at the concert for 25 cents each.
Cheerwine, a uniquely sparkling soft drink made in Salisbury, is now in its 92nd year of production.
In addition to Apple Baking and Cheerwine products, Silver Eagle LLC and Gallo Winery will donate products for the event.
For more information, contact Slusser at 704-797-0210.