I am writing this to addres the attention or rather, the lack thereof paid by the local media to the local Brandon and area music scene.  There have been a few rare occasions when someone from the local scene has had a brief spotlight shone on them, but overall I think its fairly sad that the amazing level of talent in the Wheat City goes largely unnoticed by local media outlets.

The Recent bandjam for Cancer held at The 40 Sept 14-16 is a prime example.  The was the ninth annual event.  Aside from ads runs by the venue and a brief television segment there was little notice paid to this event at all.  The event is a major draw to both local musicians and local music fans.  In the last nine years the event has raised close to $40,000 for cancer research.

None of the bands get paid for their efforts and none of them take part for recognition.  The local music community comes together once a year for a good cause and to the chance to play for a good-sized crowd.  The event raised more then $5,000 this year, making it its most successful year so far.

No mention was made in any of the local newspapers, or radio or televiosion at all.  There was very minor media interest leading up to the event and then it was forgotten about.  Why couldnt a reporter or photographer come out to the event. Even to have it acknowledged after the event would be great.

The local music community does a great thing every year with the Bandjam for Cancer and not once can I recall in the last nine years has there been any reporting on the success of the efforts put on by the very-talented local scene.  The bands in this town often have to group together when playing shows in order to get a decent-sized audience.  Is this because they arent very good.  No.  Its because outside each bands own circle of friends and the local scene as a whole, not many people in Brandon know about the scene.