Music lovers, philanthropists and anyone searching for a good time all have a reason to gather in Downtown Poplar Bluff Saturday night when The Poplar Bluff Lions Club presents Rockin' & Roarin' at The Rodgers.
The event will kick-off at 6 p.m. and performances by the Millstones, Brothers Walker and Alex Riffle & the Stiff Riffs will light up the stage. A live auction during intermission also will take place.
The concert replaces the annual televised charity auction, but according to Lions Club member Bill Gresham, it may not be a permanent change.
"We're just mixing it up and trying something new this year," Gresham said. "We'll see how it goes, but it should be a lot of fun."
Lions Club member Steve Walsh said the group has been working to gather monetary donations from local businesses as well as items to be sold in the auction.
"This is the first year for this, so we're doing our best to make sure it's a fun and successful night," he said.
Proceeds from the concert will benefit local residents with hearing or vision problems who cannot afford treatment, including screenings, surgery and hearing aids or eyeglasses. The Lions Club also contributes to the travel costs and out of pocket expenses for folks receiving assistance.
"In one year, we will buy over 100 pairs of eyeglasses or better," Lions Club member Dennis Keeling said. "We spend about $10-$12 thousand each year on vision care alone, and that's with a discount."
The Lions Club raises all the money used for helping folks in need locally and the club's spring fundraiser brings in the largest chunk of funds.
Aside from assisting area residents with vision and hearing needs, The Lions Club donates to the organization's national charities and also to several local non-profit organizations such as Boys & Girls Club, United Cancer Assistance Network, Haven House and many others.
Rockin' & Roarin' at The Rodgers will take place at The Historic Rodgers Theatre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
General admission tickets are $10 each and VIP seating is available for $30 each. VIP tickets include food, refreshments and alcoholic beverages.
Tickets can be purchased the night of the event, from any Lions Club member, online at rodgerstheatre.org or by calling 573-609-4683.
Businesses interested in making monetary donations or contributing new items to be auctioned off may speak with any Lions Club member or email Walsh at swalsh@walsh-firm.com.