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Brownsville’s free summer concert series ends

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The Power of Music is disbanding after a six-year run, marking an end to the annual free summer concert series in Brownsville.

“We’re all sad about it,” said Annette Buffer, who co-chaired POM with Leonora Byrd. “It was quality music from professional musicians and great shows. It was good entertainment.”

Buffer cited too few volunteers for the work that included setting up tents to keep sun off audiences for the concerts, which were held at Brownsville’s Cast Iron Amphitheater in Snowden Square.

The series featured a variety of music, including rock ‘n roll, pop, rhythm and blues, country and polka. POM, run by a 14-member committee, relied on fundraisers and donations to put on the concerts free to the public.

In a letter to the borough council, mayor and supporters, POM explained, “The demands on our committee have become too overwhelming and financially unbearable for our few members. As a self-formed body of concerned people, we fought to overcome obstacle after obstacle to provide high-quality entertainment through professional musicians and free to all who wanted to attend our events. Our efforts were well received by some townsfolk and created many wonderful memories for those who attended.”

Carryover funds from the 2018 season will provide an annual $500 scholarship or the next four years. The scholarship is open to Brownsville Area High School seniors who will major in music. Forms will be available in the near future at the high school guidance office. The first scholarship will be awarded this year.

Greater Brownsville Area Chamber of Commerce announced the news in an email newsletter, noting its thanks for POM’s service to the community.

“Through your efforts, many people were able to enjoy free summer concerts, representing a variety of genres, for six summers,” the chamber noted. “We realize the hard work that’s been involved and the summers that you’ve given up as a result. You realized your goal to lift the community’s spirit and your successes were many. Many lasting friendships were formed as a result of your efforts. We wish you the very best and an enjoyable, relaxing summer.”

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