(Maumee, OH) A local country band won't be performing at this year's Northwest Ohio Rib-Off.
Organizers of this weekend's event at the Lucas County Fairgrounds have kicked the band out of its musical lineup for what it claims to be a near-racist rant by its lead singer.
Organizers canceled an opening act appearance by Rodney Parker and Liberty Beach, claiming the Facebook post appeared to support white nationalist groups.
Organizers say the Rib-Off is a family event and no place for politics or hate. Parker claims the post was not racist but an expression of both sides in the hate-speech debate.
The lead singer performed last year before a Donald Trump rally in Toledo during the presidential campaign.