The Cultural Affairs Committee approved a recommendation for funding of an event involving the Florida Orchestra playing in our City, up to the amount of $12,000.  The event will highlight the Florida Orchestra playing with fifteen musicians.  This will be the first time they have played in New Port Richey.

The following is a break down of the event with associated costs:

* Florida Orchestra playing from 2:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. for $5000.

* Rental of the Community Congregrational Church $375.

* Florida Big Band playing in the Gazebo, 3:00p.m. - 6:00p.m. for $2400.

* Port-a-lets with Hand Washing Stations $570.

* Rental of 100 folding chairs $125.

* Video and Audio Board by Orange Lake for overflow seating $1600.

The event has now been named the "Magical Music Holiday" and it will fill the park and downtown with free music and activities for families on December 21st with the Florida Orchestra, The Florida Big Band, Santa with toys for the children, Make & Take It Crafts, local musicians playing on a stage on Railroad Square, Children's Artwork on display around Orange Lake and a children's activity with the New Port Richey Library. The day will end with a musical act on the stage in Sims Park, Gary West, a Johnny Cash Tribute Band, playing from 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.   

The total recommendation for funding from the Cultural Affairs Committee for this full day event totals $10,070.

The Parks and Recreation Department will coordinate and provide the following for the event:  staff, Santa and toys for Santa to give the children, the stage and sound system for the musical acts on Railroad Square from 1:00p.m. - 6:00p.m, the band in Sims Park and all media and marketing materials.