Vero Nation! Country star puts hometown in spotlight

There’s nothing like a hometown superstar to bring out the best in Vero Beach. Jake Owen, Vero’s native-born, Platinum-certified recording artist, drew enthusiastic fans from around the country when he visited last weekend, bringing along a few of his friends to join him for three jam-packed events. Monies raised at the event will benefit charities funded by the Jake Owen Foundation.

On Friday evening, event sponsors were treated to a VIP reception and intimate performance at the Vero Beach Country Club. Several hundred guests, many with personal ties to Owen, mingled with celebrities such as NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick, pro golfers John Daly and Ken Duke, and country music sensations Chris Lane and Morgan Wallen. Bidding was fast and furious at the silent auction tables and more than $100,000 was raised through four live auction items.

Amid a roar of applause, Owen expressed gratitude to the community for their support, and PGA golfer Ken Duke presented Owen with a check for $30,000 from his Ken Duke & Friends Pro Am Tournament. Flashing his million-dollar smile, Owen wooed the crowd with easy banter and shared the spotlight with some up-and-coming artists.

In a touching tribute, Owen dedicated his song “Journey of Your Life” to lifelong friend and beloved Vero Beach resident, Ace Cappelen, who recently passed away.

“Ace’s grandson, Ryan, and I have been friends since kindergarten,” said Owen. “I spent countless hours with Ace, who taught me valuable life lessons along the way. This song is for you Ace. We know you are watching over us from heaven.”

Saturday night Owen kicked it up a notch – thousands of notches – at his outdoor concert at the Indian River Fairgrounds. Opening acts included performances by Joe Diffie, Chris Lane, and Morgan Wallen.

Personalizing some of his favorite songs, the high-energy entertainer even changed a few lyrics to reference familiar Vero locations. At one point, Owen invited Daly onstage to sing a soulful rendition of “Knocking on Heaven’s Door.” To the delight of the awestruck crowd, all his other celebrity friends soon joined them onstage.

In honor of his generosity to the community, Indian River County Commissioner Bob Solari and Asst. County Administrator Michael Zito, surprised Owen with a proclamation designating December as Jake Owen Month. Owen graciously accepted, expressing his pride in being part of such a philanthropic community.

“As a child I came to this fairground when the fair was in town to ride the rides, play the midway games and hang with friends. Now, this crowd is here to support my foundation and the charities we help. Some of you may not know this, but Dish Network is live streaming this performance, so smile, sing and dance! We’re putting Vero on the map tonight. Let’s show them the Vero Beach spirt!” Owen exclaimed.

Singing isn’t Owen’s only talent. A gifted golfer, Owen was awarded the prestigious “Arnie Award,” named after the celebrated Arnold Palmer, to recognize his hosting of charitable golf tournaments such as this weekend’s Jake Owen Celebrity Pro Am Golf Tournament at the Vero Beach Country Club.

The Jake Owen Foundation was founded in 2010 to provide financial support for children with cancer and other childhood diseases through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as well as youth-oriented charities in Vero Beach.

For more information, visit jakeowenfoundation.org.

Photos by: Leigh Green
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