The Last Summer Get Together

"The enjoyable summer is about over." It's been a tradition now for decades, Utica Monday Nights. Tonight capped an eight week long summer series with the Easy Money Big Band performing at Hanna Park.

            Band Leader Steve Falvo says, "I think we're all digging it, I think it's a great venue for the band and everything and I hope they have a good turnout tonight, I know the weather is a little shaky, but I think we'll be good."

            This year's summer long celebration almost didn't happen with belt tightening and budget cuts. But thanks to the efforts of a few the communities was able to enjoy entertainment all summer long.

            Councilman of the 4^th district David Testa says, "A few of the council members and the City of Utica and the Bank of Utica stepped up so we can have this event. We've had dozens of bands play all summer and tonight's the final band and we're hoping the people come up and hoping the rain holds off."

            The summer series attracts residents of all ages and some haven't missed a Utica Monday Night yet.

            New Hartford resident Ed Masel says, "Every week we're here, different types of music, we like the variety and that makes it very interesting. We're glad this is a big, big band, a good dance band we love dancing and that's why we're here tonight."

            South Utica resident Marjarie Cahill says, "We think it's just great, we love it here yeah we love it."

            Utica Monday Night's attracts hundreds every week and many feel these events are vital to keeping a community vibrant.

            Utica resident Dorothea Smothers says, "I think it's very important to bring the community together, get more people closer, get to know one another better and be like the old Utica, New York used to be."

            Jaclyn from Utica says, "I think that's great they should get together, its important. A lot of people want to hear that music, it should never die."