FOUNTAIN VALLEY : Four Free Summer Concerts Scheduled

The city will again offer a series of free concerts sponsored by local businesses this summer at the Recreation and Cultural center next to Mile Square Regional Park.

The council last week gave certificates of appreciation to Fountain Valley Body Works, Paragon Cable and Fountain Valley Regional Hospital and Medical Center for sponsoring the concerts. Each business gave $1,000.

Councilwoman Laurann Cook started the park concert series in 1990, when she was mayor, in an effort to build community spirit. The first one was attended by about 300 people, she said.

“I’ve never felt prouder,” she said. “The lawn was filled with families. It was exactly what I wanted for the residents.”

The concerts, which now draw between 3,000 and 4,000 people, will begin July 13 and will be held on four Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the city’s Recreation and Cultural Center, 16400 Brookhurst St.

Families are invited to bring their children and those attending are encouraged to also bring a picnic dinner and a lawn chair or blanket for seating.

“Instant Replay” will kick off the 1995 concert series July 13 with classic rock-and-roll and surf-style music. Country music will be featured at the July 20 concert by “Midnight Brood.”

The “Eddie Reed Swing Band” will revive the sounds of the 1930s to 1950s July 27.

The final concert is scheduled for Aug. 3 and features “Ronny and the Classics,” a band that reproduces retro oldies with high energy.

Information: (714) 966-4446.