Phish Fans Await Word on Vermont Concert

[tiedyetoga]

Associated Press

COVENTRY, Vt. - Fans of Phish are waiting to hear if the jam band will play in Coventry this summer. Organizers say they shouldn\'t have to wait too much longer.

The band\'s production company is seeking a permit from the Federal Aviation Administration to close the Newport State Airport, where they have expressed interest in holding the concert, for the duration of the event.

"We are hopeful that all the necessary permits will be granted," Dave Werlin of Great Northeast Productions said recently. "And that we will be able to create a memorable experience for the fans, the band and the county."

The company has a verbal agreement with the Department of Public Safety for a public assemblies permit, which it needs in writing before plans can move ahead.

Lt. Thomas Hanlon of the Vermont State Police said the review for the permit will take from 10 to 15 days. "Our concerns are strictly public safety," he said.

The Coventry concert would be the first Vermont tour stop for Phish since the band played at the Sugarbush Summer Stage in 1995.

Officials estimate the concert could bring $10 million to $30 million to the area.

Source: http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/breaking_news/8402645.htm