Spirit Fest Still A Go

An upcoming festival that faced a few organizational issues in the weeks before its debut is still moving full-steam ahead, according to organizers.

Security company Stewart & Associates decided to cut ties just weeks before the inaugural Spirit of Peace and Music Festival in Freeport, Ill., the local Journal-Standard said, leaving the fest scrambling to find a new security team.

A source reportedly close to the matter told the paper an advance security deposit had not been paid and promoter Scully Entertainment was questioning the price tag.

However, just a few days later, a spokeswoman for Scully Entertainment told Pollstar a new private security team had been put in place, with 40 people on staff, armed guards and additional backstage security. The festival ticket includes a $5 security fee.

The festival is slated for Aug. 19-21 at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds featuring artists including Everclear, Chevelle, Los Lonely Boys, Filter, Tonic, BoDeans and Big Head Todd & The Monsters.

While it has apparently received the support of local officials including Freeport Mayor George Gaulrapp, the fest still has a few hurdles to jump before it can take place.

Gaulrapp told the Journal-Standard Scully Entertainment has until a week before the show to pay a deposit for sanitation costs and public safety employee hours.

“The promoters have until seven days before the concert to deposit 25 percent of the cost,” he said. That advance will reportedly come to $16,297.

Three-day passes for Spirit of Peace are $55. The festival is also featuring a $5 Friday ticket to see local acts, and Saturday and Sunday tickets at $35 and $25, respectively. Nearby camping accommodations are also available.