By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Niles Daily Star
NILES - Tonight's Thursday Night Live free concert at the Riverfront Amiphitheater from 7 to 9:30 p.m. presents Wildcat, a popular local group which promises to bring the concert goers to their feet dancing.
Marty Fortzon, lead and backup vocals and guitar, is best known for the hit "California Sun," recorded by the Rivieras in the summer of 1963. Marty has performed with Chuck Berry, Jan and Dean, Tommy James and many other greats. He continues to perform as a member of the Rivieras and has helped form Wildcats, which was also named for a car, as was the Rivieras.
Dave Sanders, on guitar, sax and backup vocals has been with the Riverias for the last three years. He opened concerts for such stars as Herman Hermits, Buddy Holly's Crickets and others in the 80s as a member of "Chantilly Lace."
Randy Sharkey on drums, lead and backup vocals was on the Cypress Gardens National water ski team and still competes in the masters division. He has played with the RIverias for the last five years.
Kevin Szucsits, bass, keyboard, accordian, lead and backup vocals, toured nationally with a polka band, before they changed formats to add rock and roll. He joined the Wildcats in 1999.
The Thursday night concerts will continue through the end of August. Coming up next week is the rock n' roll group The Grifters. The first week in July will feature The Stray Horns.
Coming in August in connection with the Niles Riverfest on Thursday, Aug. 4, during the concert which will feature VanDyke Revue, will be an all new couples contest - Mr. and Mrs. Riverfest 2005. Gifts and prizes will be awarded to the those chosen as King and Queen and to the runner-ups. Couples must be at least 18 years of age and applications must be turned in by July 19. For more information call (269) 684-4858.