Food Stock Set for August 18

There won’t be any big acts, soggy rain or thousands of teens, but Pat O’Donnell just hopes the concert he’s planning will raise some food and money for local food pantries.

On Saturday, Aug. 18, O’Donnell, of Washington, will host a charity concert heralded as Food Stock, in reference to the famous concert Woodstock, at the Farmers’ Market on Main Street in Downtown Washington. The music begins at 4 p.m.

“The Lord’s been so good to me,” O’Donnell said. “I thought, why don’t I give back? You know, pay it forward.”

Food Stock coincides with O’Donnell’s 65th birthday. He asks only that concert-goers bring canned food or money to donate. All proceeds benefit Washington food banks at St. Francis Borgia, Loving Hearts Outreach and St. Peter’s United Church of Christ.

“All of (the food banks) are short,” O’Donnell said. “There are a lot of people hurting in Franklin County and in Washington.”

Seven local bands will participate: 8 Track, Texas Giants, Jonesy and the Doctor, Augusta Bottom Consort, River Rats, Schmitts and Grins, and Phase Five. O’Donnell will participate in three of the bands as a drummer.

“I want people to come bring money, canned goods, or both, enjoy themselves, and help me celebrate my 65th birthday,” O’Donnell said. “It’s a good time for a good cause.”

Free parking is available at and around the Farmers’ Market.