Epic Night as Bogmen Play at Paramount for Booster Club

Epic. That’s what the Huntington Booster Club’s fundraiser was at The Paramount in the village last Saturday night. The organization sold more than 400 tickets and another 750 showed up at an incredible concert given by The Bogmen to make the evening something that will always be remembered in Blue Devil lore.

Two dozen Huntington High School chamber choir members where on the big stage for the opening numbers with The Bogmen, who visited the high school earlier in the week for a rehearsal with the vocalists. That, too, was something that will never be forgotten.

The event honored Blue Devil alum Greg Kline, who died suddenly in August 2020. A proud member of the Huntington community, he was in the midst of sending his children through district schools and coordinated the annual lacrosse alumni game while also playing a variety of other roles in town activities.

“The Huntington Booster Club’s annual fundraiser was a success, thanks to everyone that played their part by organizing, purchasing a ticket, donating and sponsoring,” the organization wrote in an email sent early Sunday morning to hundreds of Blue Devil supporters. “And a big shout out to The Bogmen for allowing us to share the stage and including the Huntington High School choir. You guys rock!”

The event raised tens of thousands of dollars and was the most financially successful endeavor in the five decade history of the Huntington Booster Club.

“Our honoree, Greg Kline was no doubt with us and proud of our town rallying to support our kids in their athletic pursuits,” the Booster Club wrote in its email. “And on this Veterans Day weekend, the Booster Club is excited to announce that the Kline Family has generously donated the funds to raise a new 50 foot flagpole between the two turf fields at Huntington High School! Greg was passionate about his family, the Blue Devils and our veterans. He devoted his life to all three and the flag is a beautiful representation of his commitment that will shine over our school district for decades to come!”

Hundreds turned out for the “sound check hour” that included food, drinks, raffles and an inspirational film featuring Huntington alums talking about their Blue Devil pride.

Huntington drama club advisor Michael Schwendemann served as master of ceremonies. Coach Ron Wilson gave a short motivational talk. Booster Club President Dave Evans was joined on stage by Mr. Kline’s wife, Melissa.

The Booster Club’s Erik Larson led the group’s organizational events. All club officials pitched in to make the event an epic success. The Huntington Highsteppers greeted the crowd at the front door and dozens of Blue Devil athletes were on hand to enjoy the festivities. Chamber choir members were joined on stage by veterans as the teenagers sang America the Beautiful for the crowd.

Emilio Cuesta’s band, QUESTA warmed up the huge crowd for The Bogmen, who gave a high energy and altogether memorable performance. Frontman and 1989 Huntington alum Billy Campion was joined by founding band members Bill and Brendan Ryan and five other musicians who together played old and new classics for well over two hours. Campion proved to be an incredible showman, even dancing with jewel encrusted pink shoes.

The Booster Club’s online auction of incredible items will continue until Saturday, November 18 at 7 p.m. Visit this link to view the items: Click Here to access Auction Site