WARREN - The first of 11 Noon in the Park events kicked off Friday with Gary Lucas and the Dana Gypsy Jazz Ensemble.
The high sun and warm weather had those who attended the free weekly concerts seeking shelter under every available tree in Courthouse Square.
About 50 people, mostly older adults as well as parents with very young children, sat on lawn chairs enjoying a little time to themselves. Some brought blankets, water and food to enjoy a picnic-like atmosphere.
Article Photos
Tribune Chronicle / Raymond L. Smith
Amber Johnson, left, sits with her children, Kiley and Colton, on Friday during the first Noon in the Park at Courthouse Square in Warren.
Trumbull Mobile Meals, working with the Sunrise Inn, is selling $7 and $5 lunches every Friday. Proceeds go to Trumbull Mobile Meals in its effort to raise money for underfed individuals and families.
"We've been doing this for about 12 years," Linda Amadei, a volunteer with Trumbull Mobile Meals, said. "Generally, we've raised somewhere between $2,000 to $3,000 for the program."
Because of help from the Sunrise Inn, the variety of noon-time food has increased from hot dogs and chips to include a choice of pizza, chicken, sausage and peppers, salad, bread and a beverage.
Fact Box
Concerts start about noon Friday, unless otherwise specified, at the gazebo on Courthouse Square. Lunch options are available.
June 22 - Dennis Drummond Group (blues / jazz / rock)
June 29 - Trumbull Art Gallery Summerfest Parade, 11:15 a.m., followed by Chalk on the Walk and music by The Top Notes (big band / jazz) at 12:15 p.m.
July 6 - Nelson Reep (electroacoustic / experimental/pop)
July 13 - Take II (acoustic rock)
July 20 - Frank Castellano & Dennis Drummond (jazz / blues)
July 27 - Stephen Foster Chorus (barbershop)
Aug. 3 - Michael Austin (smooth jazz)
Aug. 17 - Dr. G Trio with Greg Johnson
Aug. 24 - Trilogy (acoustic rock)
Dayna and Jim Raynish of Warren have been attending Noon in the Park since their own children were very young. Today, the couple have grandchildren that they spoil.
"We like coming out here," Dayna Raynish said. "It is very relaxing."
Bob Stahl of Warren was sitting in the park with his wife, their daughter and their grandchild.
"It is nice to get out," Stahl said.
Up next week is the Dennis Drummond Group.