DYSART – They’re “Not Half Bad,” and they’re ready to entertain as part of Vision Dysart’s 2026 Summer Music on Main concert series.

“Vision Dysart is hosting Summer Music on Main on select Thursdays through August. We approached businesses in Dysart, and of course they stepped up to fund this project,” Vision Dysart’s Peg Mullen told the newspaper of the concerts set to take place in the downtown Pocket Park. Money raised through the concert series will be combined with a Dysart Community Foundation grant to fund the upcoming “Art in the Pocket Park” project, which will showcase local artist Robin Werner’s work. “The artwork is phase one, enhancing the area behind the Pocket Park,” Mullen explained.

Last month’s kickoff concert featured The Levi Temple Quartet, fronted by Union High School band director Levi Temple, along with talented musicians David Donald (piano), Vincent Valadez (bass) and Aiden Endres (drums).

July’s concert will take place Thursday, July 16, from 7 to 8 p.m. and feature the Not Half Bad Quartet with Mary Ann Whelchel.

“These guys have been performing together for over 40 years,” Mullen said. “They are blessing us with another performance, as many area residents have been entertained by them over the years. They are known for sharing their rendition of ‘Holy Bible: The Old and New Testaments’ by the Statler Brothers in many area churches.”

The band’s current roster includes locals John Thiele, Greg Jans (formerly of Redline), and cousins Walter Brandt and Tom Brandt, along with Mary Ann Whelchel of Vinton, who replaced the late Marilyn Melhaus upon her passing in 2021.

“Marilyn accompanied them for years,” Mullen said. “She retired from teaching in Vinton and Dysart. She had a 75-year history as an organist. She was amazing!

“Mary Ann Whelchel has accompanied the boys for about five years, also with an extended history of teaching music. She frequently plays piano for Sunday services at Dysart United Methodist Church, as well as other area churches. Also amazing!”

The 2026 Summer Music on Main concert series is sponsored by AB Customs, Amber’s Hair Designs, Brick-a-Brack, CNC Lumber, Dysart Fine Arts, Dysart State Bank, Eikamp Insurance, El Luna, FCTC, Harper’s Public House, Ian Flores, KE Black Mercantile, Luze Realty, Northeast Security Bank, Pipho & Gingrich Family Dentistry, Soule Shop & Spa, Tama-Benton Cooperative, Wrage Realty, and Vision Dysart.

24th Annual Car, Truck & Bike Show

The following evening, Friday, July 17, Dysart’s 24th Annual Car, Truck & Bike Show returns to downtown for a fun-filled night of classic cars, custom trucks, motorcycles, food, music, and community spirit. The event features over 50 trophies and a family-friendly atmosphere for car enthusiasts of all ages.

Registration begins at 4 p.m. on Main Street. With the entry fee, a vehicle is eligible to win one of 53 total trophies. Each entry also includes two free meal tickets. Downtown restaurants will be open, or stop by the Community Building for a Lions Club tenderloin meal.

For more information on the 24th Annual Car, Truck & Bike Show, visit https://www.dysartchamber.org/.