‘Music by the Millponds’ series to kick off June 16

MONROE — The Village of Monroe will host the first of three free summer concerts at Crane Park at the Millponds on Saturday, June 16, featuring country music singer Tracy DeLucia from 5 to 7 p.m.

DeLucia is from the Hudson Valley and has performed extensively through the area. Music clips and videos of her performances can be found on her website, www.tracydelucia.com.

Her new CD, “Empowered,” can also be downloaded from her Web site.

“Tracy is a vocal powerhouse whose songwriting skills match her singing abilities,” said WTBQ DJ and radio personality Frank Fornario. “She makes her music come to life in concert with infectious energy and her pure joy in performing for a live crowd. On CD or in person, Tracy is not to be missed.”

Last year, DeLucia recorded in Nashville at County Q Productions with top-talent who works with country music’s best acts like George Strait and Rodney Atkins. Her single, “Good Morning to You,” was promoted by Grassroots Nashville and played on more than 70 radio stations, receiving more than 500 plays weekly during the spring and summer of 2011.

Also on tap Opening for DeLucia is The Perfect Fifths, a five-piece jazz ensemble from Monroe-Woodbury High School. All five members are classically trained and were hired to play for Cardinal Timothy Dolan at his homecoming events after he returned from Vatican City when he was named New York’s newest cardinal.

In addition to the concert, an Art Walk - featuring artists from throughout Hudson Valley - will be featured with artists specializing in a variety of media including ceramics, photography, digital art, sculpture and painting showing their work. Their works will be available for purchase.

The Art Walk will include a “Children’s Corner” where artists guide children through hands-on art exploration. The Art Walk is organized by the Tanya Woods, volunteer service unit chair of the Monroe Community Girl Scouts.

The evening will also feature inflatable bouncy toys for children to jump around in for $5 for the entire evening. Local restaurants have been invited to set up food stands.

Other concert dates are Saturday, July 28, and Saturday, Aug. 18. Rain dates are the next day.

To learn more, visit: www.villageofmonroe.org.

- Nancy Kriz