Revived concert series returns
Private donations keep Powers Park shows alive after budget cuts
TROY, N.Y. » All but given up for dead as a result of city budget cuts, a popular summer music program returns to Lansingburgh on Saturday night as a result of community support.
The annual Powers Park Concert Series kicks off its 14th season with a performance by the Bluz House Rockers from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the park at the corner of 2nd Avenue and 110th Street. The show is the first in a series of eight to take place each Saturday night through the end of August.
The series had been funded in the past by the city itself, with $5,000 allocated for last
year’s shows, but that money was cut from the 2017 budget as city officials struggled to agree on a plan that eventually included a 14.5 percent increase in the property tax levy. Under the leadership, however, of city Councilman Jim Gulli, whose District 1 includes the park, the series was revived through private donations from businesses and individuals from throughout the city, especially Lansingburgh, that topped Gulli’s initial goal of $ 30,000.
“The Powers Park Concert Series remains a summer entertainment staple for the city of Troy, and this season’s slate of performers provides quality, familyfriendly entertainment for our residents and visitors from across the Capital Region,” Mayor Patrick Madden said in a news release promoting the series. “Thank you to the business owners and concert organizers for their support to preserve this signature event for the enjoyment of our community and neighborhoods.”
The remaining schedule includes Soul Sky with Joe Lowry, Sunny Speed and JeremyWalz on July 15, the Kyle Bourgalt Band on July 22, Jacamo on July 29, Cryin’ Out Loud on Aug. 5, Al Bruno on Aug. 12, School of Rock, TroyMusic Academy and RocksMusic Studio on Aug. 19, and Emerald City on Aug. 26.
All shows will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
There will be weekly 5050 raff les, and food and non- alcoholic beverages will be available. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in Powers Park.
For more information, go to www. facebook. com/ powers park concerts.