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Concert series set to begin in Hickory Square

Exit 125 takes stage in first 'Downtown Sounds' event

The eclectic sounds of "Exit 125" will kick off the Downtown Sounds-Music in the Square three-part summer concert series on Hickory Street Square on Friday evening.

With Richard Ontiveros on drums and vocals and Dennis Fuller on guitar, harmonic and vocals the two man band is excited to fill the streets of Sidney with music. Based out of Sterling, Colo., "Exit 125" is no stranger to performing in Sidney.

"We have played in Sidney many, many times for Cabela's private parties," Ontiveros said. "We are really looking forward to performing on Friday. It's going to be great time, plus, the crowds in Sidney are always fun and great."

According to Ontiveros, the band has been playing since 1997.

"It really got started when Dennis would play in a coffee shop that I managed in Sterling. I would sit down and play some sets with him and we've been performing together ever since."

Covering a wide variety of sounds from older Country to new Country to Pop and Rock with a Blues feel, the band will entertain with many different styles and genres. Popular covers from "Exit 125" include music from Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Eagles and Bill Withers.

"I play what I like to call a hybrid drum. Instead of a snare drum I have a conga and symbols. It's a little different but I can make a lot of different sounds," Ontiveros said. "For just two guys we make a lot of noise."

Downtown Sounds is a way to offer a variety of musical culture to the community as well as an entertaining outdoor atmosphere. The summer concert series will take place the third Friday of June, July and August.

"New Wave Time Machine" will bring '80s Rock, Pop and New Wave Hits to Hickory Square in July. During the final concert of the series in August, "Buck'd Off," the 2011, 2013 and 2014 Nebraska State Title for the Texaco Country Showdown winners will bring sounds of George Strait, Chris Young and Brantley Gilbert to the stage.

Local clubs and organizations will provide food and drinks for purchase during each of the performances.

"This has been a topic of discussion for a long time, we really want to provide more events and activities in Hickory Square for the community to get involved with," said Heather Hausmann of the Cheyenne County Chamber. "This was a great opportunity to bring more people to downtown Sidney."

During Friday's concert, The Leadership Cheyenne County Class will be offering food and drink for $5. Those proceeds will be donated to the Table of Grace Mobile Food Pantry.

The Downtown Sounds performances are free and the public should bring their own seating. The concerts will run from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

 

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