Vernon Summer Concert Series Set To Open With Performance By 102nd Army Band

VERNON, CT — The annual mayor's summer concert series will begin Thursday with a performance by Vernon-based-based 102nd Army Band, followed by a ceremony recognizing the town's partnership with the U.S. Army's Partnership for Your Success program.

The free concert is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in Henry Park following the Vernon Farmers Market, which opens at 4:30 p.m. If weather forces a cancellation, both events will move to Rockville High School.

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The 102d Army Band, based at the Connecticut Army National Guard armory on West Street in Vernon, performs a variety of musical styles through several ensembles, including jazz, rock, pop and brass groups. Thursday's performance will feature classical music and military marches, according to Staff Sgt. Michael Cavuoto, a clarinetist with the band.

Before the concert, town officials will hold a ceremony marking Vernon's participation in the U.S. Army's Partnership for Your Success, or PaYS, program.

The program connects Army soldiers with potential employers in the public and private sectors after their military service. Participating employers guarantee soldiers a job interview while gaining access to a pool of trained candidates with military experience.

Mayor Daniel Champagne, a Connecticut Army National Guard veteran, said veterans bring valuable skills and experience that translate well to municipal employment.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for the Town of Vernon," Champagne said in a statement. "Veterans bring a lot to the table and have a strong record of work and achievement. That translates extremely well into the public service jobs we have available in Vernon."

The remaining concerts in the summer series are scheduled for Aug. 6 featuring Cover2Cover, Aug. 13 featuring Nightshift and Aug. 20 featuring Shaded Soul. If rain cancels a performance, it will be postponed until the following Tuesday.