The Auburn Community Concert Band, under the direction of Milt Simon, will present its customary holiday concert at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Franco Center in Lewiston. The free 75-minute performance will feature both traditional and contemporary songs celebrating the Christmas and Hanukah holiday seasons. The concert will conclude with an audience sing-along.

This season’s 38-member concert band is comprised of volunteer musicians from 14 central Maine communities, who range in age from teens to 80s.

Continuing a tradition which began over four decades ago, those attending the concert will have the opportunity to make a donation to the local branch of the Salvation Army. All money collected in the Army’s red kettles that evening will be used to help Central Maine residents in need of assistance this winter. Majors David Irwin and Jessica Irwin are expected to attend the concert and address the community’s urgent need. Small’s Greenhouse in Auburn is providing poinsettias to decorate the Franco Center’s stage. Immediately following the evening’s performance, attendees will be able to purchase these plants with all proceeds going to the Salvation Army.

The Franco Center is located at 46 Cedar St., Lewiston. Ample free parking is available in the Oxford Street lot, located across the street from the Franco Center’s side entrance. For more information regarding this concert, call the Gendron Franco Center at 783-1585. To check on any last-minute changes or updates, visit the band’s web site at auburncommunityband.com.

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