Concert will honor music man

Dennis Jakab was a linchpin of the Central Oregon roots music scene. For years, he and his wife, Ellen, opened their Powell Butte home for a monthly music jam that brought musicians out from across the region.

Jakab Jams were more than just an enjoyable musical interlude - though the music was wonderful. They were an essential part of the building of a music community that reverberated out to Sisters Country.

On Saturday, May 23, at HarmonyHouse (Doug/Katie Cavanaugh's place at 17505 Kent Rd., off Cloverdale Road east of Sisters), folks will gather to celebrate the life of Dennis Jakab and to assist Ellen Jakab. Dennis McGregor will perform.

Doors open at 7 p.m., music starts at 7:30 p.m. Suggested donation: $15 to $20.

In addition to hosting Jakab Jams with Ellen, Dennis was involved in the local Old Time Fiddlers association, and was an active member the Central Oregon Songwriters Association (COSA). His interests extended to gardening and hiking in Central Oregon. He earned a Master Gardener Certificate.

Jakab served in the National Guard for eight years, where he received a National Guard Soldier of the Year award in 1989, and the Specialist Troop Command Brigade Soldier of the Year.