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Putnam Valley Sunset Series Leaves Fans Looking for More
by Edward Paul Greiff
Two years ago Sunset Series Director Thea Moeller began building a summer concert and movie program in Putnam Valley's Leonard Wagner Memorial Town Park. "Today we are proud to say the Sunset Series logo is a recognized symbol of the quality family programming we provide," says Ms. Moeller.
In fact, it is so popular that as of today, Director Moeller has received approximately 30 to 40 musical CDs from various groups that would like to be on the program for the 2007 concert series. Normally they would wait until the spring to start planning programs and schedules for the series but Director Moeller isn't waiting, she is starting this month to begin formulating next year's plans. She has scheduled a meeting to begin hashing around some new ideas for the Sunset Series for Tuesday, November 14, 2006 starting at 7pm at the Parks & Recreation Annex. Everyone is welcome to attend and welcome to become a volunteer or sponsor for an event in the series.
The Sunset Series' popularity is attributed to not only Director Moeller's efforts but to the many volunteers and community sponsors who, through their generosity, have made the series possible. "I am really humbled by all the Sunset Series volunteers and wonderful staff," says Moeller, "the Sunset Series would not be alive today if it wasn't for them; thanks from my heart."
Ms. Moeller goes on to talk about the past, present, and future of the Sunset Series. She speaks about how politicians and dignitaries of all sorts enjoy the concerts. For them it's a relaxed day in the park where they can take off their jackets and ties, let their hair down and just enjoy the entertainment and natural beauty of the park.
The technical support team of Corey Moeller and sound technician Matthew Brady and recently Nick Roberts have met all of the challenges thrown their way and have grown in their expertise in the process. For the last event of the season, the 25-piece big band Switch In Time was a real challenge. Nick and Corey had to supply and set up all of the audio equipment, including microphones, necessary for twenty-five instruments to be heard and synchronized. They even made a CD recording of the band.
Many other volunteers supported each event as did the over 35 different organizations and individuals who contributed the funds that paid for the Sunset Series entertainment and movies. Sponsors ranged from open-ended support to specific special events, and to individuals, organizations and businesses. Without this community support there would be no Sunset Series.
In spite of many rain out cancellations the 2006 Sunset Series was a big success and culminated with an outstanding performance by local vocalist Michelle LeBlanc and the 25-piece Big Band Switch In Time. The concert was held in the Putnam Valley High School Performing Arts Center on Saturday, October 21, 2006.
One of the ideas Director Moeller is entertaining is to use the PVHS Performing Arts Center as a permanent back up for any concert that gets rained out in the park - it's not the same, but it's an excellent substitute.
Probably the highlight of the season was the "Mega Evening of Fun" held August 11, 2006. Families came with their tents and set them up on the great lawn area, watched a family movie, roasted marshmallows over a huge campfire built by the Scouts, and enjoyed the meteorite shower in the sky by looking through the twelve-inch telescope supplied by meteorologist Joe Rao.
The Sunset Series program is growing fast and Director Moeller hopes to explore some new ideas for the 2007 season. One idea being entertained is to partner with more of the other organizations in Putnam Valley such as the Lions, Rotary, Ambulance Corps, Fire Department, Library, Performing Arts, Farmers Market, Putnam Valley Business Men's Association, Senior Center and others. Another idea is to have a "Politician Day" where political leaders join in a non-partisan day, cook hot dogs, and hamburgers, and join in some fun and games to bring the community together. It's making a strong community even stronger and having fun the Putnam Valley way.
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