An Evening of Dreams at Hodag Park

History was made on Saturday, July 25 as the first-ever ticketed concert was held at the Hodag Park amphitheater in Rhinelander. The benefit event, organized by Jesse Robinson, was truly an Evening of Dreams. Proceeds from the event, which featured performances from country acts Thompson Square and David Nail, will benefit Dream Foundation, the Aspirus Cancer Care James Beck Cancer Center in Rhinelander, and Aspirus Seasons of Life Hospice House in Woodruff. Robinson’s goal was to “pay it forward” in memory of his mother, Laura, who succumbed to colon cancer in 2029. Thanks to the Dream Foundation, the Robinson family was able to take a trip to California before Laura’s passing and in recognition of that gift, Jesse wanted to raise money to help ease the burden on others battling cancer or other terminal diseases.
“Saturday evening was more beautiful than I even imagined, “ he said in a statement. “Seeing Hodag Park transformed and watching people enjoy the music, waterfront setting, family activities, tribute wall, and all of the finer details we worked so hard to create was incredibly rewarding. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback about the layout, production quality, performers, event features, and the intimate yet fun atmosphere. Everything came together remarkably well, and I am extremely grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, performers, vendors, production team, the City of Rhinelander, and everyone who believed in this vision. The evening felt meaningful, welcoming, and genuinely fun, which is exactly what we hoped to create for our community and for Northwoods individuals and families facing cancer and terminal illness. We certainly wish more people had known about the concert in advance. Given the importance of the causes, the caliber of talent, and the historic significance of the event for Rhinelander, it deserved, and was fully prepared to welcome, a much larger audience. Still, the response from those who attended has been deeply encouraging. Many people are already asking when the next one will be, and the experience we created Saturday gives us something very special to build upon.”