New blues fest takes advantage of picturesque local setting

When Mike Rogowski finalized a lease for the 117 acres in March, he envisioned turning the mountainous property into an artist’s retreat and a hot spot for music, camping and grilling.

Less than six months later, he realized his dream.

On Saturday, dozens of music enthusiasts equipped with lawn chairs, cold beverages and tents flooded Mountain Sky for the second day of an inaugural Blues Fest, which featured music from AJ Cimino & the 357’s, the Clarence Spady Band and Popa Chubby.

Relaxing under the clear sky, residents from across Northeast Pennsylvania parked seats in front of the venue’s stage as the aroma of applewood-smoked barbecued chicken drifted toward them.

“There’s such a great atmosphere here,” said Paul Kelly of Scranton. “It’s relaxed, there’s plenty of great food and we’re listening to blues legends.

“I’m hoping to relive some of my teenage years.”

While adults enjoyed the live music, children took part in hula-hoop contests and watched a clown perform.

“We wanted to make this kid-friendly, too, so it’s a great place for the entire family to come,” said Heather Savaro, wife of co-leaseholder Mike Savaro. “It’s all coming to fruition right now. People from Wisconsin and Florida are stopping by.”

Seated in chairs about 75 yards from the stage, Peter Geanacopoulos and his wife, Debbie, enjoyed drinks and tapped their feet to the music.

After hearing of the festival on Friday, the two made the one-hour trip from Blakeslee.

“We brought a tent so we can stay the night,” Mr. Geanacopoulos said. “We’re just excited people are making such good use of this property.”

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