‘Retrospect’ to perform Friday night in Norris

Some of those attending last Friday evening’s Concert on the Commons in Norris, featuring “My New Favorites” from Johnson City, took advantage of the shade as the summer sky was mostly blue for a change. (photo:G. Chambers Williams III )
It will be the fourth in this year’s series of concerts, and will be on the outdoor stage next to the Lions Club Pavilion in the downtown area.
The 2025 schedule will conclude with a July 4 concert by “110 in the Shade,” a six-member group performing funk, soul, Motown, and R&B numbers.
Hosted by the Norris Recreation Commission, the free concert will run from 7 to 9 p.m.
Those planning to attend should bring their own chairs or blankets to sit on in the grassy area in front of the stage, on the grounds of Norris Middle School. But there is also some seating available at the picnic tables in the pavilion.
The first two concerts – June 6 and 13 – saw light attendance because of rain during the performances.
But that was not the case last Friday night, as clear skies and a cool wind combined to create perfect weather for an outdoor concert – despite temperatures in the mid-80s.
About 200 people turned out for the concert by “My New Favorites,” a four-member acoustic group from Johnson City, performing songs with honky-tonk and Appalachian roots.
There was no hint of rain, so nobody had to run for cover, and everyone seemed to be enjoying the event.
As part of the Norris Day activities, the July 4 concert will be followed by a 20-minute fireworks display.
Jack Mitchell, who was a longtime Norris real-estate agent and publisher of the Norris Bulletin, created the concert series 16 years ago.
Powell Clinch Utility District has been the sponsor of the series since its inception, helping to pay the performers for their appearances.