Concert proceeds to help upgrade Keyport parks
Musician Jon Caspi will hold CD release party at McDonagh's
BY JESSICA SMITH
Correspondent

KEYPORT - Customers at McDonagh's Pub will have an opportunity to enjoy local music, food and drink while making the town a better place on Saturday.

Keyport native and musician Jon Caspi is donating the proceeds from his second CD release party to Open Hearts for Keyport Parks. The group, started by Browns Point community members, is dedicated to refurbishing Keyport parks, as they say many are in a state of disrepair.

"I wanted to make sure I did something for Keyport. I try where I can to support the town, because it's really a great place to live," Caspi said.

The title song of Caspi's first CD, "This Town," was inspired by a Keyport fundraiser. Caspi said he was impressed by the way community members came together to make a difference. The proceeds of that CD's release party went to arts programs in public schools. To him, it only seemed right to make the release party for his new CD, "I'm Not Angry Anymore," another fundraising effort for the town.

Open Hearts for Keyport Parks started about three months ago, when a group of residents approached Councilman Joe Sheridan asking what they could do to get the borough's parks improved. With Sheridan's support, the group has initiated repairs in the Therese Street Park, which Saturday's event will benefit. Through fundraisers like this one, along with volunteer efforts and grants, the group hopes to eventually get all of Keyport's parks up to par.

"It's a good group of highly motivated people. It's great to be a part of," said Sheridan.

The Aug. 12 fundraiser's $12 admission cost includes food and drink along with the music. Caspi's new CD will be available for purchase. Kevin McGowan will also be performing.

McDonagh's is bringing in a stage and special lighting for the event, and organizers are expecting tickets to sell out.

"We're really excited about it, and I'm so excited that Jon is helping us with this," said Jennifer Flynn, the group's chairwoman.

Tickets can be purchased online at JonCaspi.com, or at McDonagh's Pub or Espresso Joe's in downtown Keyport.