The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Gloria Snyder for The Quill
The rain outside didn't hold back the Summerfest events of Saturday evening, August 13, 2005 because the FFA Labor Auction and the entertainment of Sequoia Drive were taken indoors to the La Harpe Clubhouse where a large crowd gathered.
Events started at 6:30 p.m. as 46 high school students were auctioned off by the FFA to the highest bidders for 5 hours of honest labor.
At 7:15 p.m. the "Colors" were presented by the La Harpe American Legion Post 301, the National Anthem was sung by Andrea Ferguson and prayer given by Doug Hobby. Hobby also introduced the entertainment for the evening, "Sequoia Drive".
This group is mainly from the surrounding area and perform mostly country music with a mix of southern rock. They enjoy a large following.
The five musicians captivated the large audience and had them tapping their feet, clapping hands, and many people were dancing to the music of "The Shake", "Guitars, Cadillacs, Hillbilly Music", "Wave on Wave", "Fulsum Prison Blues", (sung for Johnny Cash), and other favorites like "Paint Me a Birmingham", a Tracey Laurence song, "Neon Moon".
This fine group has been touring the areas of Blandinsville, Good Hope, and on Saturday night engaged and captivated the La Harpe audience of Summerfest.
Graciously, the five talented musicians took the time to give a little background about themselves for The Quill.
Eric Icenogle: Started in 1991 out of high school, moved to Nashville, TN, in 1992, had a great career, opened up for Kenny Chesney, John Michael Montgomery, and Tracey Laurence. He moved back home, joined with "Sequoia Drive" and "the rest is history!"
Pat Starbuck: Started in 5th grade, played in various bands, "Hog Wild", opened up with Brian for Kansas, and Sawyer Brown, joined with "Sequoia Drive" in 2002. He said, "Getting better every day!"
Brian Huggins: Started playing country music in 1987. Has played with several bands including "Hog Wild". Started with "Sequoia Drive" in 2002 and has been going strong ever since.
Kenny Howell: Started playing country music in 1992. Played in "Vintage Country", "Hog Wild", "Midrange", and started "Sequoia Drive" in 2002. Won the Macomb Country Showdown in 2004.
Jordan Egler: Born in Tucson, AZ, spent time in Colorado, Japan, and Texas. Moved to Illinois in 1995. "Bit by the country bug in 2004". He is owner and operator of Redlight Records.