By Katherine Kelton

The Ward Melville Heritage Organization held the first of its summer concert series events July 7, at Stony Brook Village Green.

The large crowd spanned much of the green and parking lot, with their lawn chairs and picnic blankets in tow. Families, adults and pups enjoyed their own food and drinks. And for those without food on hand, Sweet Mama’s ice cream parlor was the go-to spot.

As the event caters to older crowds, the first band Just Sixties showcased a medley of music from the influential decade: the 1960s.

Just Sixties is reputed to be the longest-running ’60s tribute band in the United States, and is a Smithtown-based group. They performed under the beloved eagle of the post office, whose wings flapped to commence the concert.

Immense community spirit was felt, as people danced, swayed and took videos of the performance.

Just Sixties is a true blast from the past, with an introduction featuring famous news stories from the decade — from the moon landing to the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The messages served to remind people of the tumultuous decade while, simultaneously, embracing its history.

The drummer in the band, Rob Gerver, spoke with TBR, saying, “In between songs, the culture of the times are told as stories to the audience, making the show an educational and informative retrospective, as well as a magical musical event.”

Popular with the crowd were renditions of “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival and “California Dreamin’” by the Mamas & the Papas. According to Gerver, the band is versed in different genres from “bubblegum pop to heavy metal.”

There will be a total of seven Sunday concerts through Aug. 18 at 7-8:30 p.m. New York’s Martini Garden, described as “the Eagles meet Stevie Wonder,” are scheduled to play July 14.