Television personalities Big Chuck and Lil' John headlined a fundraiser for the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra held at the Greene Eagle Winery on Saturday, May 20, 2017. Big Chuck and Lil' John performed from 3 to 5 p.m.
Also performing after 5 p.m. was the popular Take II Band. Dr. Bob and Ellie wiere set up in the winery for all to enjoy.
Tickets for Big Chuck and Lil' John were $10 per person and were be sold at the gate; reservations were accepted by phoning the WPO office. Pre-event tickets could be purchased using the reservation form on the Fundraiser Flier (PDF 1Mb). Ticket sales help underwrite WPO concerts and youth projects.
Food and beverages were available for purchase from the Greene Eagle Winery and other vendors. Big Chuck and Lil' John merchandise were be available for purchase, and an autograph session was held after their performance. The event also featured a pizza eating contest sponsored by Sunrise Inn and a 50/50 raffle.
Big Chuck Schodowski and John Rinaldi (Lil' John) have been Northeast Ohio TV personalities for decades, mainly on WJW-TV (Fox 8). Introducing movies broadcast by the station is secondary to the off-beat skits Big Chuck and Lil' John produce and star in that accompany the films. Their reputation has grown, with many celebrities adding their talents. Big Chuck and Lil' John participate in many charity events in the region each year.
The Greene Eagle Winery opened in December 2009 and boasts "a venue reminiscent of Colonial Williamsburg." The winery hosts a variety of wine and music events throughout the year, Wednesday through Sunday and special occasions by appointment. Indoor and outdoor spaces provide a casual atmosphere. The winery is located at 2576 Davis Peck Road, Cortland, Ohio (Greene Township).