Sneakers & Speakers Charity Rockfest is a way for me to give back to my community. My brother (Luke) and I possess a great sense of pride being from the Granite State, and have been working very hard to put together something that the whole state can enjoy together. The proceeds from the event benefit the Boys & Girls Club (where I first learned the game of basketball).
There are two aspects to this event; both involve two of my greatest passions. First, we conduct a free basketball clinic for the children of our community (Sneakers). Then, we host a first class concert at the Capitol Center for the Arts (Speakers).
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 sneakers (Saturday July 12, 2008)When I was young, I remember playing a game of whiffle ball at Rollins Park with Major League Pitcher Bob Tewksbury. That memory has stuck with me throughout my life. Now, I find myself in that same position where I can provide a positive memory that may inspire a local kid to achieve more. Through this free basketball clinic, kids will have the opportunity to shoot hoops, receive some pointers, and interact with an NBA player. This will all be happening at the Concord Boys & Girls Club, where my basketball career started. There will also be some giveaways for the kids. We urge you all to come out and enjoy this great experience with us! speakers (Saturday July 19, 2008)Through the use of the arts and culture, we will be bringing an enjoyable concert experience to the heart of New Hampshire. Last year was the first Sneakers & Speakers and it was a great success. We brought in an outstanding indie band called Okkervil River, and they put on an incredible show. This year's show will prove to be just as exciting. First, we have an outstanding band who is originally from the Granite State. This is a band called Wild Light. Wild Light has already established itself as one of the most promising new bands in the nation. I first found out about Wild Light when I noticed that they had toured with one of my favorite bands, The Arcade Fire. When I found out that they are also from New Hampshire, I knew I had to get them for this show. It will be great to get these guys back to their home state. We have also added hip-hop act Edan with special guest Dagha to the bill. Edan is a critically acclaimed Boston based MC who recently supported Public Enemy in the UK. Edan?s unique sound has garnered interest from both rock and hip-hop circles. His high-energy show stays true to the roots of hip-hop. Edan is one of my favorite rappers, and we are very fortunate to have him coming to town. Rounding off the lineup will be up-and-coming indie act The Felice Brothers. The Felice Brothers put on one of the best live shows I have seen all year. After I caught one of their shows in Austin, TX, I knew they would be perfect for Sneakers & Speakers. They have a throwback Americana sound that makes for an enjoyable show. These blue collared brothers have worked their way from being NYC subway performers to being named as the #2 must-see band in 2008 by GQ Magazine. These boys are wicked excited to play in NH, and I am sure that you will all love their show. Please come out and show your support for this event. This is something that we would like to make a summertime staple in NH. This year's show is scheduled for Saturday, July 19, which is the last day of Market Days downtown. It would be really great if everyone around the state would come out to have some fun. It will be a great time, and it is all for a great cause. This is something that Concord should be very proud to host. Thanks for your support! Sincerely, Matt Bonner |