ARNOLDS PARK, Iowa -- High temperatures, vintage cars and music from days gone by set the scene on Saturday as the 2012 Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Music Association's Hall of Fame Induction Spectacular weekend rolled into town.
Tom Golden, the IRRMA's director of operations, said the weather worked in its favor to bring a large crowd of rock 'n' roll enthusiasts. He estimated about 2,500 to 3,000 people attended the induction ceremonies.
The 2012 class brought 25 new inductees, Golden said. Included were Tommy Roe, Kephart's Music Center, Endless Summer, Mylan Ray, The Chevelles and Night Flight, among others.
Golden said the biggest event was Sunday night's induction concert. Several different inductees performed, including Roe.
Two auctions -- one silent and one live -- took place Saturday and included signed guitars from artists such as Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Buffett and more.
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Golden said his favorite part of the festivities was witnessing rock fanatics reuniting.
"Guys that haven't seen each other for some 30 to 40 years get back together (to play music)," Golden said. "For one weekend, they get to relive those days. It's a great time."
Sue Debord attended the live auction for the first time to look for Christmas gifts for her brother. She said people should come for the music and the auction.
Jan Larson of Worthington said her family has a summer cabin in the area. They came for the concert and overall atmosphere.
"Having fun, running into friends and watching people enjoy themselves is always fun," Larson said as she exchanged greetings with one of those friends who happened by.
Larson, who works at Worthington High School, said, "A lot of young people that I work with really like old time rock 'n' roll."
She said the experience is fun for adults and kids alike. Her grandson, 1-year-old Kaden, seemed to agree as he licked the bottom half of his strawberry ice cream cone.
Daily Globe Reporter Kayla Strayer may be reached at 376-7322.
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