Parkfest starts Tuesday

The Fret Set will play traditional and folk music to kick off this year's Parkfest 2008 at Robe-Ann park Tuesday at 7 p.m. Pictured in front of The Blue Door, the band consists of Rick Smock, Don Bowlby, Lenora Bowlby, Bill Lorton and Larry "Rooster" Kersey.

Summer is nearly here, which can only mean one thing: Parkfest 2008 at Robe Ann Park.

This year's lineup begins Tuesday at 7 p.m. with the Fret Set.

"We've been playing together since 1994, with new members added to the group through the intervening years," said harmonica and lap dulcimer player Lenora Bowlby.

The members include Bowlby, Don Bowlby on mandolin and jaw harp, Rick Smock on guitar and vocals, Larry "Rooster" Kersey on bass and Bill Lorton on fiddle.

Don Bowlby said, "Jaw harp is the only instrument that gets me applause."

The songs are traditional and contemporary folk and gospel. The Fret Set are also involved in community service, performances at schools, churches, lodges, private parties and retirement communities as well as festivals and at the Pioneer Barn at the Indiana State Fair.

The band used to play Thursday evenings at The Blue Door Café in downtown Greencastle while DePauw was in session.