Spitzer Chevy Amherst to sponsor Rockin’ on the River

By Richard Payerchin, The Morning Journal

Spitzer Chevrolet Amherst has signed on as the title sponsor the Rockin’ on the River concert series in Lorain.

Concert promoter Bob Earley announced the new sponsorship on Jan. 4.

“It’s great to have them on board,” Earley said.

It’s going to make for a big name, though, he added with a laugh.

Rockin’ on the River’s official moniker and logo will add Spitzer Chevrolet Amherst, although the exact new name and design are not final, Earley said.

“They’re going to take an active part,” he said about the Spitzer Chevy Amherst dealership. “We’re going to make them proud and they’re going to make us proud.”

The 2016 concert series will feature 20 shows running from June 3 to Sept. 10, with 12 events on Friday nights, seven on Saturdays and one on Sunday. The schedule likely will be completed within 30 days, Earley said.

This year will be the second summer that Rockin’ on the Rover spends in Lorain. In 2015, the series moved from Cuyahoga Falls.

Last year, Earley acknowledged area merchants did not know what to expect with the weekly shows by classic rock, country and contemporary tribute bands.

The success of 2015 sparked the interest of businesses and event organizers, Earley said. He added he does not necessarily seek out sponsors, but the interest is “just a natural part of what we do” when crowds start coming, he said.

“It’s nice to be recognized by a great community citizen like Spitzer,” Earley said.

The sponsorship does not change the use agreement between Rockin’ on the River and the Lorain Port Authority, which controls the Black River Landing community festival site, said Rick Novak, Port executive director.

Novak agreed with Earley that some Lorain-area businesspeople might have known about Rockin’ on the River in Cuyahoga Falls, but did not know the effect it would have in Lorain.

“I think now people have a much better understanding of it, and they’re willing to step up and support the events,” Novak said. “It’s great that the Spitzer organization and dealership stepped up with their willingness to fund the event. I think it’s great.”

The Port will not get any revenues due to the sponsorships. With the musical acts, staffing and portable restrooms, people may not realize how much money Earley invests in the community, Novak said.

“It’s a huge investment,” he said.