The Rhythm Dawgs played a fundraiser concert at the Eagles Club on Sherman Avenue Friday and Saturday evenings, Nov. 4 and 5, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the NIC Alumni Association to help support scholarships, programs and activities.
“We all love NIC,” said Jim Lien, retired principal and bass guitarist for the Rhythm Dawgs. “We’d do anything to help support others to attend.”
Birds of a feather, dance together; and as the band played timeless tunes, Cardinals and Eagles flocked to the dance floor. From Bon Jovi to Santana, country, pop, jazz, and everything else that can provide a beat, the Rhythm Dawgs had just about everyone dancing.
“I like that they play a wide genre, and how it inspired crowd involvement,” said Casey Brackett, 22, NIC’s mechanics program, Wendell, Idaho.
A large turnout of supporters and donors ensured not only a large audience for the but helped raise nearly $2,000 for the NIC Alumni Foundation.
“There is nothing I would rather do than play music,” said Lane Sumner, NIC graduate and member of the Rhythm Dawgs for 21 years. “When I’m on stage performing, all the stress and problems of the world go away.”
The Rhythm Dawgs started in 1986 and has had more than 30 different members. No matter the head count, they said the band’s goals have always been the same: to play music for all ages to enjoy and bring people together.
Throughout the band’s 25 year history, they have played various functions, such as weddings, conventions and a number of different fundraising events. The band is mostly made up of teachers and principals. Currently all of the members are involved with education. Jim Gray, lead singer, guitar and congas, is the current principal of Sorensen Magnet Elementary School. Barry Aiken, keyboard and vocals, is a music instructor at NIC. Daniel Cox, drummer, divides his time as a music teacher between Sorensen Magnet School, Gonzaga, and NIC.
The Foundation hosts events and fundraisers throughout the year to help support students and programs. For information and upcoming Foundation events, visit www.nic.edu/foundation.
