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Swartz Creek Fine Arts Association President David Spillane said he was pleasantly surprised by the Knights of Columbus’ donation of $500. Grand Knight Michael Trundle presented a check to the association prior to the June 21 concert. Courtesy photo
SWARTZ CREEK — Continuing a longstanding tradition of supporting the local performing arts scene, the Knights of Columbus Swartz Creek Council #6694 presented a $500 check to the Swartz Creek Fine Arts Association at the start of the 2022 concert season June 21.
The Knights typically donate the proceeds from their Bob Smeets Memorial Coney Nights, held annually prior to the final concert of the year, but the pandemic put a damper on the coney nights the past two years.
“It was a pleasant surprise being as they weren’t able to do the dinner last year,” said association President David Spillane. “I wasn’t expecting them to call and say they wanted to give us money, so it was a pleasant surprise and a helpful surprise to help offset the cost of the season, especially with costs being up.”
The Knights began supporting the concerts in 1987 and, to date, they’ve donated nearly $20,000, said Grand Knight Michael Trundle.
“Despite not holding our Coney Night the past two years, we felt it important to support this organization because of the good they do for our community,” said Trundle. “We appreciate the value of a family-oriented program such as this and the talent they bring in is outstanding. It truly is enjoyed by many of all ages.”
The Knights raise money for the various programs they support through many different means, he said. The donation to the association represents proceeds from a recent can/bottle drive which, Trundle said, “was supported by many in our community.”
“We are blessed with their generosity and selflessness,” Trundle said.
The next concert will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, with Billy Mack and the Juke Joint Johnnies performing vintage R&B, rockabilly, lounge and surf vibes. The concert will be sponsored by Swartz Creek Masonic Lodge #458.
Concerts are free and held the Pajtas Theater, 8099 Civic Drive. Concert-goers should bring chairs or blankets for seating. Concessions are available.
The amphitheater was built in 1984 and the first concert took place in August of 1985.
The concert season is completely funded through contributions. Donations can be made at the concession stand with cash or credit/debit card. Supporters also can select the Swartz Creek Fine Arts Association for Kroger Rewards.
“It doesn’t cost them anything,” said Spillane. “They just select the Swartz Creek Fine Arts then, when they shop, Kroger recognizes that and sends money quarterly.”