JAM for the ANIMALS - 10 years of a Purrfectly Howlin' Good Time
In 1998, the acoustic duo, "girls with guitars" took out their guitars at Pike's Point State Park and began playing for the small crowd that had gathered to spend an afternoon at the beach on West Okoboji Lake. They performed for 2 hours, mixing in stories about abandoned dogs and cats that they had found starving in the countryside where they lived. As people gathered around to listen to the songs and stories, the girls talked about the importance of the Humane Society in stopping the heartless, neglectful dumping of unwanted animals. They took up a collection for the shelter which had recently begun operation in Milford. It didn't amount to a lot of money, but it started an event that coupled the love of animals with the love of music and became known as the 1st Annual Jam for the Animals
"Girls with guitars" were quick to realize the potential of this event as an annual fund raiser. They also knew they couldn't do it alone and so began to enlist the support if area businesses to help sponsor the event. Over the next 2 years, word began to spread and the event grew into an afternoon of music that featured many well-known area musicians. Players like Christopher Jon, Tammy Hamlin, Dave Rowley, John Senn, Sue Clark, Gary Willrett, Chad & Catherine Elliot and others joined "girls with guitars" Kate Whitrock and Jane Pappone creating a music festival that has raised over $11,000 for the shelter. It would be the last time "girls with guitars" would perform. Jane decided to leave the band. Kate found a new partner, Sue Archibald, and accomplished keyboardist. They named their new band Intimate Strangers and Sue and Kate have continued the legacy of Jam for the Animals. The 2000 JAM saw an estimated 450 people and some 20-25 boats anchored off shore...but, there were some problems. While there was ample room for folks to gather at Pike's Point, parking areas were over flowing.... Then, heat and humidity caused the generator that powered the PA system to cut in and out, disrupting the performance for about 30 minutes. It was obvious that for this event to continue to grow, it would need to find a new home.
Jam for the Animals finds a new home...
2001 marked the 4th Annual Jam for the Animals and was the biggest and best festival yet! It was held in the Outdoor Stage area of the Amusement Park in Arnolds Park. Last year, for the first time, the JAM saw a line up of area "bands" in addition to the many familiar performers from past years. Beginning at 12:30 and going to 8pm there were ten performances - virtually non-stop music. Five acoustic acts returning from the 3rd Annual Jam: One Man's Junk, Dave Rowley, Carla Sloan, Christopher Jon and Gary Willrett were joined by 5 bands: Under the Sun, Grand Larceny, Intimate Strangers, Storm Dogs and Stil Gravy for what was a talented and varied line up of entertainment.
The 2002 Jam for the Animals was cancelled due to the death of a family member of one of the organizers.
In 2003, 2004 & 2005, 2006, 2007 Jam for the Animals was held at Florence Park in Milford as part of "Pioneer Days".
As always, the JAM attracted many area families as well as tourists ready to enjoy a day of free music.