Family-friendly music festival needs support

I recently attended the Cedar Rapids Amphitheater Music Fest. It was a beautiful day to sit in Greene Square Park and listen to talented local bands. My husband and I brought our kids and they had a great time. A kid's tent was staffed with volunteers doing crafts and games.

I liked that there were several food vendors and one beer vendor, which is how a music fest should be. The focus wasn't on drinking to excess. Finally, the bands were some of the best in the area.

Now, before this event, I saw television ads, articles in The Gazette and fliers around town. It even came on the heels of the big downtown farmers market. Yet the crowd remained small. It's disappointing.

Organizers did an amazing job and I hope they are not discouraged by the low attendance. I know many families who would like to support local music without having to leave the kids at home.

Bars and nightclubs should not be the only options. Throw support behind these musicians and share the experience with your kids. Hopefully the amphitheater will make that even more possible.

Jane Harney

Cedar Rapids