feature article - june 2008

Grafton grooves in the summer

GRAFTON is a dynamic community of more than 11,300 in the heart of Ozaukee County and a village with a historic past.

Development of the area dates back to 1840, but the Ozaukee County community is basing its current downtown revitalization project on its Paramount Records legacy and ties to blues artists of the late 1920s.

Musical themes have been incorporated into the new Paramount Plaza, designed for concerts and other outdoor special events. The Walk of Fame recognizes blues and jazz greats who recorded in Grafton and others who recorded for Paramount Records.

A Tuesday "Tunes on the Plaza" free concert series is held on alternating Tuesdays from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the Paramount Plaza. The series kicks off on June 17 with Don Kenner playing country, blues and standards in a concert sponsored by Columbia St. Mary's. Other dates are July 1, 15, 29 and Aug. 12 and 28.

Starting July 10, the "GALA in the Park" Concert Series presents a wide range of music at Centennial Park in Grafton. In addition, a free blues concert on Friday, June 20, will be held at 5 p.m. in Centennial Park, presented by Grafton Blues Association.

Giro d'Grafton will be hosted by the Village of Grafton on Saturday, June 21. This second annual professional bike race features free live blues music. Races start at noon and run all day, culminating with a 7:30 p.m. Twilight Pro Race.

Plan to attend the Third Annual Paramount Blues Festival on Sept. 19-20. Visit www.graftonblues.org for updates. More info on this month's events are in the KeyMilwaukee.com Special Events and Arts & Entertainment listing.