Staff Reports

The signs of spring are all around us.

Flowers are blooming, birds are chirping and Plaza Jam is returning to Rockingham from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday on Cole Plaza beside city hall.

Rockingham Events Coordinator Kim Williams described the festivities for those who’ve missed out on the good times in the past.

“Folks come out and set up their lawnchairs, usually in the afternoon while the kids run around on the grass,” she said. “Everybody enjoys the free music and has a good time. It’s just a real good, fun family event.”

She said this is the city’s sixth season of Plaza Jam being kicked off by a two-hour concert by the Band of Oz from the Triangle.

On their website, Band of Oz describes their eight member group, with full rhythm section, as one of the most successful bands in the Southeast.

They’ve been playing Carolina beach music since 1967, and as the members have moved on or joined up, maintained the same intensity and passion for the grooves that keep people shagging.

Upcoming acts for the season include Coastline Band in June, The Attractions in July, The Tams in August, Craig Woolard Band in September and on Oct. 1 The Fantastic Shakers will be the show stoppers.

“We didn’t have any rainouts last year, and we’re just hoping that the afternoon rain clouds will pass us by again this year,” Williams said.

The AmVets will be selling food at the event, and there will be commemorative t-shirts on sale.

Williams reminded concert-goers that Plaza Jam wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of sponsors Progress Energy, BB&T, Dieffenbach GM Superstore, First Carolina Care Insurance Company, the Richmond County Tourism Development Authority and the City of Rockingham.