CALLICOON CENTER – The Callicoon Center Band opened up its 90th year on Wednesday evening, July 3, as the first of its weekly summer concert series. The band, made up of over 20 members, will perform at the bandstand every Wednesday at 8 p.m. through August 14. 

Director James Newton thanked the large crowd in attendance for being a big part of why they are able to do what they do. 

The director referenced how many years ago they spoke of burying a time capsule, but it never really materialized. 

“In a way, you are a time capsule,” said Newton to the crowd lining Gulf Road across from the Callicoon Center Firehouse. “We thank you for being part of what we are doing here and you are the reason we are here.”

Newton has been conductor of the band since 1976 as he nears 50 years at the post. 

The concert opened up with the Presentation of Colors with American Patrol and the Star Spangled Banner was performed by Kaylee Gonzalez of Livingston Manor. Gonzalez also performed God Bless America later in the concert, which featured 11 songs performed by the band. 

The Callicoon Center Band summer concert series is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program. It is a program of the New York State Council of the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, administered by the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA).