The Dumbfounded BlogWhat a year it has been! And we are into the second half of 2025 already!
After a brief hiatus following our successful New Year’s Eve gig at the Washington C.H. American Legion, several members scattered to warmer climes to rest and recharge before returning to Ohio and working with new drummer Jeff Hudson. Below are some comments about our experience so far in 2025: 'Summer in December' with Dumbfounded Dec. 20 In what may be our final show of 2025, we are excited to be booked at American Legion Post 25, 1240 US 22, Washington C.H. Join us for a fun evening -- it's open to the public -- with music starting at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. That's right, classic rock featuring some of the greatest hits of the '60s, '70s and '80s! Adena Fayette Gala Dec. 12 Friday, Dec. 12 was a fun evening as supporters of Adena Health celebrated a great year for the medical center in Washington C.H., such as the topping out of the steel framework of the new Adena Fayette Medical Center that is being built to serve community needs well into the future. The gathering took place at the Mahan Building on the Fayetteville County Fairgrounds, where in the past groups like the Nightcrawlers ("Little Black Egg"), the Standells ("Dirty Water") and the locally renowned Cavaliers performed. Bassist Mark Lawson, who grew up in WCH, has been wanting to play there since his youth, and finally realized his dream on Dec. 12 with Dumbfounded! The food was excellent, a lot of money was raised for a good cause, and Dumbfounded provided opportunities for dancing to classic rock. Congrats to Adena Health for putting on such a nice shindig with a Jimmy Buffett style theme, "Hospital in Paradise." The Harvesters Ball Oct. 11 At a remote location near Caesar Creek State Park, the Harvesters gather each year to celebrate autumn while enjoying food, drink and music in a historic setting. Longtime friends gather by a bonfire while others tell stories or dance to classic rock. At the 2025 event a young guitarist named Katie asked if she could sit in with the band for a song or two. "Come on up," we said, and Katie absolutely killed it on "Sunshine of Your Love" and "Good Golly Miss Molly"! Bassist Mark Lawson brought a Marshall 4x12" stack for guitarist Ron Coffey to play through, and even let him use a Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster. Thanks Mark, that was awesome! By the end of the evening, many were in a dancing mood and kept asking the band for "just one more song." The number of encores we played is unknown but it may have approached double digits. It's great to be appreciated -- thanks everyone! Rockin' at the Elks Oct. 4 - Washington C.H. Elks Lodge 129 Dumbfounded enjoyed being on the bill with Long Play, a great Columbus band, for Rockin' at the Elks on a beautiful Saturday afternoon and evening. In addition to food trucks and a beer garden, there was live music from 4-6 p.m. by Dumbfounded. People seemed to be in great spirits and it was good to see our old band mate Mark Fisher as well as a number of dancers for our part of the program. The featured band from the Columbus area, Long Play, performed from 7-10 p.m. with a very professional sound and show as they presented music by artists such as Styx, Yes, Journey, the Bee Gees, the Tubes, Eric Johnson and Boston. The weather was perfect and we were happy to be part of such a nice event. Thanks to Elks Lodge 129 and the Fayette County Travel & Tourism Bureau for putting everything together. Ralph's Garage Oct. 3 The beat goes on at Ralph's Garage, and on this weekend there was a corgi convention, so dog lovers from all over were at the facility. As always, the band enjoyed playing at this great venue which is good in any season or kind of weather. Thanks to Jerrika from Ralph's for the compliments on our music and professionalism. We hope to finish out our Ralph's "residency" with lots of music fans when we return to Ralph's on Friday, Nov. 14. Greenfield Oktoberfest Sept. 27 The weather was perfect and the activities brought a large crowd to downtown Greenfield for the Oktoberfest sponsored by G3. There was German food, a beer garden, the Doxie Derby, and classic rock, garage style by Dumbfounded. The crowd was in a festive mood and our band was happy to be invited. A big thank you to Grow Greater Greenfield for having us in 2025 and for inviting us back again in 2026! The Scarecrow festival at Washington C.H. Sept. 21 After an absence of several years, Dumbfounded returned to the Scarecrow Festival and helped close out the entertainment on the big stage Sunday afternoon. All the guys enjoyed using the sound system that was provided. Despite the hot weather a lot of people were in town, checking out classic cars, visiting food and merchandise booths and generally having a good time. And while rain was forecast -- and really has been needed -- it arrived a little sooner than expected, causing our set to shut down about 30 minutes early. Still, we had a nice time and are grateful to the fans who came by to listen. Ralph's Garage Sept. 19 It's always a pleasure to play at Ralph's Garage near Wilmington. On this date there was a big RV show going on in the Roberts Centre and we set up in our usual location at Ralph's Garage, which commemorates the beginnings of R&L Carriers and features good food and a chance to let your hair down if you are so inclined. If you haven't been there, plan on stopping by at 123 Gano Rd., Wilmington to check out the facilities. It's a great venue for weddings and receptions as well as conventions of all kinds. Dumbfounded will return there on Oct. 3 and Nov. 14 to bring some classic rock to the party! John Hinderer Ford Sept. 13 - a new song and a new medley The band had a blast at John Hinderer Ford in Washington C.H. Saturday afternoon, Sept. 13. There was a cruise-in featuring some great classic cars, a food truck and classic rock by Dumbfounded, in addition to the latest models from the Ford Motor Company. Our three-hour gig went well, and a highlight was our first-ever performance of "Jumpin' Jack Flash" that sounded pretty good considering that we had not even practiced it together until this gig. So another Rolling Stones song has been added to our arsenal. We also did a "Smoke medley" featuring "Smoking in the Boys' Room" that became "Smoke on the Water." (Perhaps we should add "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke that Cigarette" to make it a trilogy? Thanks to the folks at John Hinderer Ford for making us feel welcome. Let's do it again one of these days! Bike Night at Ralph’s Garage Sept. 19, Oct. 3 and Nov. 14! As mentioned elsewhere, Ralph’s Garage at 123 Gano Rd., Wilmington is one of Dumbfounded’s favorite venues, with a room that can be opened up to the summer breeze or closed up to keep out the rain. We greatly enjoyed playing there several times over the summer. The food is always good, the staff friendly and Ralph's is a great place to relax for a few hours enjoying music and visiting with friends. The venue asked us to return several more times during 2025, and we hope to be back rocking Ralph's Garage in 2026! More info on Ralph’s: https://www.facebook.com/ralphsgrill Pelotonia at Champion's Grill July 26 Kudos to the many volunteers who make things happen for the super-successful Pelotonia which has raised a ton of money to fight cancer at these events over the years. And our old friend and former bandmate Mark Fisher has been at the forefront of many of the Pelotonia events. The 2025 version was lovely indeed and featured some guest musicians for the band including the aforementioned vocalist Mr. Fisher, as well as guitarist Jim Pettit, a local guitar legend. The weather was hot and there was a brief shower, but spirits remained high throughout. Dumbfounded is proud to play a small part in this important event. Kettering American Legion July 19 It was a big day in Kettering as there was a golf outing followed by a nice steak fry that evening. Dumbfounded got to set up in a new outdoor bandstand that helped protect us from the weather on a rather damp day. However, no rain fell during our portion of the program and Legionnaires and their friends enjoyed the evening with us as our friends Carl and Connie Dell got some video and audio of the event. If you are a veteran and haven't visited Kettering American Legion Post 598, it's one of the nicest and largest American Legion posts in the state of Ohio. Our bassist Mark Lawson, who lives in nearby Centerville, is a member and it's always fun to play there. Twigstock, June 28 Hey, most of us may have missed Woodstock back in 1969 (and subsequent sequels) but now Dumbfounded has had the pleasure of playing Twigstock! The folks who put on Twigstock near Spring Valley do a great job of bringing music to the people. The stage offered shade, the sound system and backline equipment that were provided were first rate, and the videos posted by Carl and Connie Dell are amazing! The only downside to the event this year was the unpredictable Ohio weather. Seven bands were scheduled, and midway through the third band’s set a gulleywasher set in, ultimately resulting in cancellation of the remainder of the program. It’s a shame, because the bands all have great reputations and were ready to rock until Mother Nature intervened. This was one time when playing early paid off for us. Dumbfounded was able to complete our scheduled set and Carl Dell posted the sights and sounds for all to see. Search for “Twigstock 2025 Dumbfounded” or click on the link below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQGNIlCtfU4&list=PLYufhJNpdMNVkPWxj7Yu2icKYch1AzTct And thanks to everyone at Twigstock for inviting us. Hoping for better weather next year! Ross County Shrine Club Car Show May 31 The end of May turned out to be a sort of night/day doubleheader as Dumbfounded journeyed to Chillicothe for a nice car show put on by the Ross County Shriners. Music started at 11 a.m. and went until 3 p.m. under sunny skies. Some really nice classic cars were featured along with some souped up specials like a Ford Mustang completely outfitted with Cincinnati Bengals paint job, upholstery and even a football-shaped grill on a trailer featuring more Bengals imagery. Thanks to DJ Charlie Hargrave for his help with this event, to Leonard and Bonnie’s Buildings, 1825 Western Ave., Chillicothe, OH for hosting the car show, and to everyone who came out to support a good cause. Postscript: Sadly, Leonard Sines passed away on Sept. 4. We enjoyed working with him at several car shows in the past and send our thoughts and prayers to Leonard's wife Bonnie and the family. Private wedding reception May 30 Dumbfounded has played wedding receptions before, but not many. After this one we would like to do more! The wedding reception celebrated the marriage of Emilie Fisher and Tim Terhune and took place in a huge tent next to a cornfield near where the bride grew up. As Ohio weather would have it, May 30 turned out to be a rainy day. By reception time the rain had stopped but the ground was wet, even under the tent. A family member or friend who lived nearby – bless his heart! – took note of the situation and brought over five 4’ x 8’ sheets of plywood so that the band could set up without danger of electrocution. A single daisy-chained extension cord provided power for the band and the amps lit up! Still, some members of the band had their doubts. The makeshift dance floor was very wet! A miracle occurred that night when about 150 wedding guests showed up in high spirits and the fun began! The power never failed. Guests feasted on a roasted pig and other tasty foods, and throughout the evening the dancing never stopped! Frankly, this was one of the most enjoyable gigs Dumbfounded has experienced. The college-age crowd kept the dance floor busy, and they must have been raised right because they knew the words to all the classic rock songs, danced like no one was watching and inspired the band members to give everything they had. Dumbfounded was asked to perform “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night, and on the fly the musicians ever so slightly amended the chorus to say “Joy to the Fishers and the Terhunes too” as there truly was much joy under the big tent that evening! Adding to the festive atmosphere was the presence of Emilie's cousin Mark Fisher, erstwhile Dumbfounded member, who joined the band onstage for several numbers. Emilie and Tim, we tip our hats to you and wish you many wonderful years of wedded bliss. Bike Night at Ralph’s Garage May 20 Well, some days you win, some days you lose, and on May 20 we got rained out. It’s an occupational hazard when many of the band’s gigs are outdoors. This time an atmospheric river of sorts made life difficult for any bikers wishing to ride their Harleys to Ralph’s Garage near Wilmington, so management wisely cancelled the event. Fortunately we had another date (see July 15) because Dumbfounded loves playing at Ralph’s Garage. If you are unfamiliar with the venue, it’s part of Ralph’s American Grill at the Roberts Center and is located at 123 Gano Rd., Wilmington, OH. Check it out, even if Dumbfounded isn’t playing. We think you will like the food, the vibe, the friendly staff and the entertainment. Rescue 101 SAR Spring Gala May 17 Following some rehearsals with new drummer Jeff Hudson the band kicked off a new season of classic rock, garage style at the Rescue 101 SAR, Inc. Spring Gala which took place May 17 at the Deer Creek Lodge. This spacious facility provided a nice backdrop for an organization that does so much to help others in need. Rescue 101 Search & Rescue helps reunite missing people with their families and loved ones, using state-of-the-art technology and techniques. Rescue 101 also has helped in numerous disaster situations where hurricanes, floods and other hardships have destroyed homes, blocked roadways, flooded whole neighborhoods and resulted in incalculable loss in terms of human lives and property damage. One of the touching moments of the gala was the presence of two firefighting officials from North Carolina who wanted to say “thank you” to Rescue 101 for services rendered in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in 2024 by presenting a Community Ambassador Award to the rescue organization. Rescue 101 Chief Andrew Surritt honored many of the officers and volunteers in the organization and presented an impressive program detailing the organization’s activities. Dumbfounded had the pleasure of providing entertainment for the event. “It was an honor to be invited to the gala,” said singer/guitarist PJ Cunningham. For more information about Rescue 101 visit the website at the link below: https://rescue101sar.org 
2025 marks a new Quest for Dumbfounded!
That's right, Dumbfounded, Southwest Ohio's premier party band is on a quest for Classic Rock Gold and won't be denied! If you like to hear Classic Rock performed Garage Style as in days of old, consider Dumbfounded for your next party, festive celebration, retirement commemoration or favorite holiday. Party with purpose while enjoying the best of the 1960s, '70s and '80s with Dumbfounded! Click HERE for more about the QUEST! DUMBFOUNDED:
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2025 DUMBFOUNDED
G I G S Saturday, Dec. 20: Summer in December with Dumbfounded at American Legion Post 25, 1240 US 22, Washington C.H. Music starts at 8 p.m. Open to the public! We have been invited back to the Greenfield Oktoberfest in 2026 and plan to be in Hebron, Ohio for a big NHRA event in August in connection with our friends at Hinderer Honda. More details to come. Until then, Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year! ...more gigs are in the works. Hope to see you soon! SONGS YOU
MIGHT HEAR AT A DUMBFOUNDED SHOW! A Hard Day's Night Ain't Too Proud to Beg As Tears Go By Back in the U.S.S.R. Bang A Gong (Get It On) Black Magic Woman Boot Scootin’ Boogie Born on the Bayou Born to be Wild Brown Eyed Girl Call Me the Breeze China Grove Daydream Believer December 1963 Doctor My Eyes Evil Ways Feel Like Making Love Fortunate Son Friends in Low Places Get Ready Gimme Three Steps Gloria Godzilla Good Golly Miss Molly Good Lovin' Hanky Panky Hang On Sloopy Help! Hold On, I’m Comin’ Honky Tonk Women I Got You (I Feel Good) I Got a Line on You I'm a Believer In the Midnight Hour I Saw Her Standing There I Want to Hold Your Hand I Won't Back Down Jailhouse Rock Jenny Jenny (867-5309) Joy to the World Jumpin' Jack Flash Katmandu Kind of a Drag Knock on Wood La Grange Last Train to Clarksville Lights Listen to the Music Little Black Egg Long Train Runnin’ Louie Louie Love Me Two Times Margaritaville Mary Jane's Last Dance Messin' with the Kid Money (That's What I Want) Midnight Confessions Mustang Sally My Girl Nights in White Satin No Matter What No Time Oh, Pretty Woman Old Time Rock & Roll Oye Como Va Peaceful Easy Feeling Proud Mary Radar Love Runnin' Down A Dream Run to You Satisfaction (I Can't Get No) She's Not There Sleepwalk Smoke on the Water Smokin' in the Boys Room Stand by Me Stealin’ Steppin' Stone Summer in the City Summer of '69 Summertime Blues Sweet Home Chicago Take it Easy Takin’ Care of Business The Breakup Song The Breeze The Story in Your Eyes Treat Her Right Two Tickets to Paradise Unchained Melody Up on Cripple Creek Vehicle We're an American Band What I Like About You White Room Whiter Shade of Pale White Wedding Wild Night Wonderful Tonight Working for the Weekend You May Be Right You Really Got Me |
