RUMFORD – Two performers who grew up in the area, then took their acts around the state and Northeast, will bring their own special talents to Mountain Valley High School Saturday night to benefit the Mexico Recreation Park.
Barney Martin, a Mexico native, musician, comedian and actor, joins with Portland musicians Dan Merrill and Brian Johnson to become the Coos Canyon band. Also performing will be Randy Judkins, another Mexico native, who is a juggler and vaudevillian.
Martin, now a Scarborough resident, said Wednesday afternoon that Coos Canyon formed about a year ago. The three guitarists perform music from the 1960s through today. Martin is also a member of the Maine Hysterical Society and is expected to bring his humor with him, as well.
All money raised from the performance will go to upgrade the Mexico Recreation Park.
Named the Swift River Concert Series, it is the first of three benefit performances for the Mexico facility. In February, a concert by Motor Booty Affair is scheduled. Then in July, a Fourth of July performance is being planned at the recreation park that will include the Maine Hysterical Society, Bill Chinook and Coos Canyon, among others.
Matt Gallant, owner of Bullrock Water, is producing the series.
Greg Arsenault, director of the Mexico recreation program, said Saturday’s benefit, as well as the rest in the series, will help with park improvements such as replacement of the snack bar, basketball court and children’s toys.
Gallant said he and Arsenault organized the Recreation Park Improvement Fund about a year ago with the goal of raising money for a variety of projects.
Saturday’s performance costs $12.50 for adults, $7.50 for ages 9-18, and $3 for children under age 9. Gallant said cakes, cookies, brownies and beverages will be served at the show’s intermission.
Comments are no longer available on this story