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The first edition of the 2024 Legacy Nights Concert Series, which took place in late May, did so with resounding success. 

Clark Countians will be happy to know it was not a one-time scenario. 

On Tuesday, June 11, the second edition occurred as hundreds gathered at Legacy Grove Park. 

“It’s been bigger and better every single year!” Legacy Greenscapes Executive Director Deborah Jackson said. “I think people developed a sense of trust that we were going to make it happen, and it was always going to be top-notch, and that’s what we’re trying to do.” 

While dozens of chairs were lined up to hear the music, featuring families with small children and those with pets, dozens of booths were set up around the area. 

Among them were some businesses that were new for 2024, such as sponsor Minuteman Home Inspections. 

“I heard about Legacy Nights through an email with a friend,” said owner and Certified Professional Inspector Terry Roark. “I do home inspections…most are for real estate transactions for those looking to sell or buy a home.” 

Of course, dining and beverages were also available, thanks to food trucks and more. 

Hudson & Nash, Longer Table Food Company, and Sterling Microbrew, Inc., a family business, were among those present. 

“What they do here is great [in] how they take care of the communities and the kids,” said Alberta Davies, who helps operate the business with husband Robert and daughter Sophia Amburgey. “Everything brewed is brewed right there [in Mt. Sterling]. We do sours, ciders…lagers [and] ales. We sell to different places.” 

Before the day’s main band gathered to perform, attendees were already in for entertainment. 

The band Rock University performed, featuring several youth singing and playing classic songs like “Hip to Be Square” by Huey Lewis and the News. 

They have been formed through a program at Leeds Center for the Arts and – though taking time off during the summer – plan to tour once more when Fall arrives. 

“It gives kids a chance to learn their instrument playing [with] a band,” said Director Steve Crosby, who teaches along with Justin Garza. “We have two bands right now at Leeds…this group has been together for two semesters.” 

“I learned a couple of music theories. I learned a couple of ways to learn solos,” said electric guitarist Elias Tipton, who will be entering his freshman year of high school. “ It’s just been great overall.” 

The music played indeed enlightened those in the crowd. 

Among them were Stephen Berry and Carrie Beth Lasley, who were in town from Detroit. 

“I’m just here to support Legacy Grove [Park] because it’s a place I often visit,” said Berry. “[It’s] another way to enjoy the park, and I think it’s a great event.” 

“I was excited to see it because it’s my first time seeing the Legacy Grove Park that I’ve been hearing about,” she said. “They brought out some Motown music…so [I’m] pretty excited to see that!” 

Certainly not least, the band The Baja Yetis performed. 

Singer and guitarist Brandon Bowlds described them. 

“We’re a jazz-funk groove outfit from Lexington, Kentucky,” he said. “We play some originals, and we play some…New Orleans-based music.” 

Bowlds added that some of their music was inspired by Duke Ellington and others. The band featured a horn section with trumpet, saxophones, and drums. 

After being asked what he enjoyed the most about performing, Bowlds replied. “Just feeling the energy from the audience and the band members,” he said. 

Certainly, not least, the band was introduced by The Helens of Winchester, a group of individuals dressing like the character Helen Roper from the classic 1970s sitcom The Ropers. 

“This is a thing all over the world…I thought we might need to start one of these,” said Brett Cheuvront. “This group is a fun, social group [and] a nice way of meeting new people. All are welcome to join the group.” 

The Helens of Winchester, with a Facebook page called “Helens of Winchester KY,” will host its next event—a fundraiser bingo evening—on July 27 at Abettor Brewery. 

With all the entertainment options available, Legacy Nights figures to be a future event many can enjoy. 

“[It’s a] good time [with] great food [and] a safe, clean environment,” Jackson added. “It’s exactly what we’re here to do.”