Since 2005, the Babylon Village Arts Council, a local community not-for-profit group, has presented free concerts on the Second Thursday of each month at Astoria Federal Savings Bank. With the economic woes facing many art organizations, it was decided that the January concert would not be offered this year. Peter Devore, a local Babylon Village resident and active BVAC member, was not content with this decision, however. Devore stepped up and donated $400 towards the January concert.

The January concert, featuring ‘Barnaby Bright’, a folk music duo from Brooklyn, was a huge success with more than 70 residents enjoying the music on a cold winter night. Without the generosity of Astoria Federal Savings Bank for the unusual venue and grants from various government sources, these music-filled evenings would not be made possible. Community support is a vital necessity for the arts. Increasing membership and sponsorship opportunities aid in BVAC’s mission to provide the arts to the public. If interested in becoming a member, visit our website at www. babylonvillagearts.org and download an application or contact Rose Norman at 631.669.1810.