The selection of Miriam Boyington as the finalist in the Voice of Ceres youth singing contest brought to an end the 2014 summer Ceres Concerts in the Park series on Tuesday, July 15.

A decision was made to allow all prior contestants to compete in the finale, said city of Ceres Recreation Supervisor Cambria Pollinger. But only five of the nine performers competed in the finale of the Voice of Ceres contest. Singing were Naiyleah Arellano, Gabriella Sanchez, Diana Boyington, Miriam Boyington and Melissa Ruiz.

"I think the series was a great success," said Pollinger. "The new committee members we have certainly helped and the addition of the cash pass and having the firefighters barbecuing all helped draw larger crowds."

She estimated crowds at 300 to 400 nightly.

Pollinger reported that the new nightly Cash Pass promotion giveaway was successful and helped bolster attendance at the concerts. Participants had a chance to win $500 cash at each contest if they purchased a $35 season "Cash Pass" or a single $10 "Cash Pass" for a 50/50 drawing. A total of 72 passes were sold.

Proceeds from the promotion were split three ways: between the Ceres Chamber of Commerce, The Ceres Concerts in the Park Committee and the Ceres Downtown Revitalization Area Board.

The concert series kicked off on June 3 with Greg Scudder and Beer:30. Other performers included Patty Davis Castillo, The House of Orange, the Rob Hill Band, Johnny Rocket & The Thrust, Eli & The Old Timer, Sparking Spotlight, Breaking Chainz, Ernie Bucio's Little Big Band, and local church groups.

The city offered free kids crafts and activities at each concert.