Fifth annual concert to benefit Pass It Along

Sparta — The 5th annual concert for Pass It Along will take place on Saturday, Feb. 3 at the Lake Mohawk Country Club in Sparta. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The concert is the major annual fundraiser for Pass It Along, a Sparta-based non-profit that addresses the needs of the community most effectively by utilizing the diverse strengths and talents of its volunteers. All proceeds from the concert will help to fund the programs of Pass It Along. This year’s benefit concert brings back Patrick Fitzsimmons for a fifth appearance. Fitzsimmons will be performing with a full band - Ned Stroh (percussion), Johnny Grubb (bass), Leena Gilbert (violin), Tom Askin (keyboard) and Loni Bach (cello). Fitzsimmons, originally from Sparta, was signed to RCA Records with the folk/rock band From Good Homes in the late ’90s. In 2000, Fitzsimmons moved to Vermont and started a solo career. Robert Resnik, of Vermont Public Radio’s All the Traditions, wrote, “This man can really sing! The songs are carefully crafted and range from folk/pop anthems to masterful love ballads,” and Relix Magazine called him “one of the most captivating, if understated, songwriters around today.” Included in the evening’s lineup is Denny Tilton and Friends. Tilton, who has also performed in the last four concerts, will be joined by Tom Askin (keyboard), Loni Bach (cello), Alan Bowers (percussion), Kel Pilshaw (bass) and Tom Delaney (mandolin and guitar). Also a native of New Jersey, Tilton has been performing for his devoted fans, of all ages, for over two decades. Tilton has performed at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and appears regularly at the Blue Bird Café in Nashville. His latest CD, Shoulda Seen The Dream, was featured in Relix Magazine’s “On The Verge” section, and was also selected for a review in Singer Magazine. The audience this year will be treated to a performance by the gifted Kathy Phillips, accompanied by Kim Williams on piano and Walt Bibinger on guitar. Phillips’ debut album, Sway (Black Potatoe Records), released in late 2001, was recognized by Courier News/Gannett Newspapers with nods for New Jersey’s Best Female Artist and Best Song. Carries You Away, the latest CD, produced by Matt Angus, is a collection of 11 roots-driven songs, with expressive lyrics, strong melodies, gorgeous harmonies and excellent musicianship. A cash bar will be available throughout the show. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased at the Pass It Along office, Black Bear Fitness in Jefferson, the Grist Mill Café in Andover and both Greene Beans locations, in Hackettstown and Sparta. Advance tickets can also be purchased online at www.patrickfitzsimmons.net. Pass It Along can be contacted by calling 973-726-9777. For more information or to volunteer, visit www.passitalong.org.