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Grammy Award–winner Carly Pearce performs in 2024 at the Rangeley Health and Wellness benefit concert. (Staff file photo)

Rangeley Health and Wellness’ annual outdoor benefit concert this year has been canceled, according to a social media post by the organization March 13.

Since 2007, the concert has been a mainstay for the community in the summer — barring a few off years, including the COVID-19 lockdown. In past years, the organization has hosted the Doobie Brothers, Credence Clearwater Revival and the Beach Boys, among others.

The concert was started as a fundraiser for the health center. The first was held on Saddleback ski area, but was moved to the front lot of the gym at 25 Dallas Hill Road, where it has been hosted ever since.

Ann Rogers, a board member of Rangeley Health and Wellness, said the organization had trouble finding performers who were available for the summer concert.

“It’s a struggle to find bands that are willing to come up to Rangeley,” Rogers said. “They’ll only come to Rangeley if they happen to be touring in Massachusetts or New Hampshire or somewhere the routing works in between their big venues to come.”

Organizers have been in contact with sponsors and vendors to discuss the decision. Rogers said everyone has been understanding of the cancellation. Community members expressed shock to the post online, but said they are looking forward to see what comes next.

“It’s a bittersweet thing,” Rogers said, “but it’s the best decision for our organization.”

Though there won’t be any events this summer, the organization hopes to be back next year with something just as big.

“Stay tuned for something new and exciting in 2027,” Rogers said.

Quentin Blais, an Illinois native, is the community reporter for the Rangeley Highlander. He covers Rangeley and the surrounding towns in northern Franklin County. Quentin studied photography and journalism...

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