Sing and Swing on the River!

The 2012 Paul Stroud Concerts by the River series, sponsored by the City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Department, invites you to swing and sing on the river on Monday, May 21, 2012 during musical performances by the Sophisticated Swingers and Taylor McLain.   All concerts are open to the public and are held at Rhodes Ferry Park. Concerts begin at 6:00 PM and usually conclude by 8:00 PM.  For updated schedule information, please call 256-341-4818 or visit www.decaturparks.com.  In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be made after 4:00 PM and will be posted on the Decatur Parks and Recreation Department’s website  and the Facebook pages for Decatur Parks and Recreation  and Decatur, Alabama. 

The Sophisticated Swingers personify the spirit and flavor of Concerts by the River and are well-known for their spirited performances of Big Band, Jazz, Swing and early Rock and Country classics.  The group was formed in the 1980’s by Paul Stroud and other musicians who wanted to keep the great Swing and Big Band music from the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s alive for the enjoyment of all.  The group has a devoted following due to their excellent musicianship and appealing performance style.  Paul Stroud, one of the group’s founding members, originated the concert series in 1991 with events originally held at Delano Park.  As both a musician and person who supported and encouraged area musicians, his legacy is carried on in this cherished summer tradition which proudly bears his name as Paul Stroud Concerts by the River.

Taylor McLain is a Somerville, Alabama resident who brings powerful vocals and a broad repertoire to the stage.  McLain will entertain the audience with music from greats such as Linda Ronstadt, Cher, Crystal Gale, and Patsy Cline.   This young artist has performed at the Hard Rock Café, the Wild Horse Saloon and various festivals and special events.  McLain has won numerous talent competitions and is also active in musical theater.   She is a member of the Tennessee Gospel and Country Music Association and the Georgia and South Carolina associations.  In 2011, she won the title of Traditional Country Vovclaist as well as Entertainer of the Year for the North American CMA International.  Officials from BMI have awarded this talented teenat both state and national levels.  Songwriting is her passion, and she is also learning to play the guitar.  McLain is a regular volunteer at area nursing homes and assisted living facilities and brings the gift of music to residents.  She has participated in eight musical theater productions portraying a variety of lead characters in shows such as the “King and I” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”    Taylor McLain’s mature voice and stage presence make her a rising star!

Concert-goers are invited to bring their picnic baskets, lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy a free evening of entertainment on the banks of the beautiful Tennessee River.  Please call 256-341-4818 for more information.  View a promotional video of Concerts by the River by FREEDOM LIGHT PRODUCTIONS by visiting www.decaturparks.com or at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6t73TNz2csc

Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic Celebrates 35th Anniversary in 2012

For the past 35 years, the Alabama Jubilee Hot-Air Balloon Classic has been a tradition in the River City, bringing with it 65 colorful, giant balloons, live music, and family-fun all in celebration of Memorial Day. Along with the hot-air balloons, the annual, free event features competitive races between hot-air balloonists from across the country, tethered rides, live entertainment, an IDOL competition, a military tribute an evening “balloomination” and a spectacular fireworks show at Point Mallard Park in Decatur. This year’s event is set for May 26-27, 2012.

The two-day event kicks off Saturday at 6:30 a.m. with the Hare and Hound Balloon Race. Saturday’s activities include an antique car show and the Southland Flywheelers Tractor Show featuring engine demonstrations, a tractor parade, pedal tractor pull, and tractor games. At dusk, the Balloon Glow is a must see as the towering balloons of all colors light up the night sky. The day wraps up at 10:30 p.m.

Another round of friendly competition between the pilots is scheduled for Sunday beginning at 6:30 a.m. with the Hot-Air Balloon Key Grab Race. Free tethered rides are offered at 5:30 p.m. and a spectacular fireworks show by Pyro Shows is set to launch at 9:30 p.m.

Live music from 14 bands representing a variety of genre, a children’s area with games and inflatables (some activities require a nominal fee to participate), and the Decatur Art Guild arts and crafts show offering only original artwork are scheduled throughout the weekend.

Headlining this year’s event is 7 Bridges Band, an Eagles tribute band from Nashville who will take the stage at 8 p.m. on Sunday, just prior to the fireworks show. A special recognition will be made to the Wounded Warriors on Sunday and the U.S.Army Materiel Command Band is also set to perform. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged.

For those who can carry a tune (ages 16 years and older), the North Alabama Idol competition returns in 2012 for the second. The contest, offering cash and prizes to the top contender, will take to the stage on Saturday beginning at 12 p.m. Advance registration is required and is available at www.wzyp.com along with complete rules.

Free parking will be available at Wolverine Park and GE with shuttle service to Point Mallard Park from 4 to 10 p.m. for $1/person each way. Admission to the Alabama Jubilee is free. Please note all balloon activities are weather permitting.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.alabamajubilee.net  or check out its other online presences at myspace.com/alabamajubilee.net and on Facebook (Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic).

Point Mallard Park is a 500-acre municipal park providing year round recreation facilities in Decatur, Alabama. The Water Park, home to America’s first wave pool, is also scheduled to open for summer enjoyment May 26, 2012. For more information, visit www.pointmallardpark.com.

About The Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCCVB)

The Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization promoting tourism and economic growth in Morgan County.  For information on special events and attractions in Decatur and Morgan County, contact the DMCCVB at 800.524.6181 or 256.350.2028; or visit its website at www.decaturcvb.org and click on the “Things to Do” link. 

5-14-2012 Concerts by the River in Decatur, Alabama

Decatur Youth Symphony and the Austin High School Jazz Band to perform at 5-14-12 Concerts by the River in Decatur, Alabama

 The 2012 Paul Stroud Concerts by the River series, sponsored by the City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Department,  will feature some of the most talented youth and teen musicians in the area in a night of “Classics on the River” with musical performances by the Decatur Youth Symphony  and the Austin High School Jazz Band.  All concerts are open to the public and are held at Rhodes Ferry Park. Concerts begin at 6:00 PM and usually conclude by 8:00 PM.  For updated schedule information, please call 256-341-4818 or visit www.decaturparks.com.  In case of inclement weather, cancellation decisions will be announced after 4:00 PM and will be posted on the Decatur Parks and Recreation Department’s  website and Facebook Page and the Decatur, Alabama Facebook Page. 

 The Decatur Youth Symphony was formed in 2004 as a program of the City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Department and is affiliated with the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra.  Thomas Davis serves as the musical director and symphony conductor for the group.  In addition to financial support from the City of Decatur, the group is also funded through grants and private donations.  The Decatur Youth Symphony is open to students through an audition process, and offers three different levels of participation to include the Youth Symphony, the Solaris Strings and  the Apollo Strings.  A Decatur Youth Orchestra was also developed in 2010.  The Decatur Youth Symphony also partners with Decatur Youth Services to offer a Summer Music Program teaching percussion and strings to students enrolled in Camp Safe Haven.  All programs are designed to give students a chance to learn, rehearse and perform under the direction of qualified instructors and conductors, building a lifetime love of music and performance.  Music is chosen both to excite and challenge students as they develop their musical skills. 

The Austin High School Band was formed in 1965 with just seven students.  Under the direction of Mr. William Brunner, the band grew, and became recognized as one of the premier instrumental music programs in the state of Alabama.  A vital part of the band program at the school is the Austin High Jazz Band.  Directed by Mr. Clay Sloan, the jazz program at Austin High School provides students with an appreciation and understanding of jazz history as well as the skills necessary for jazz performance.  The Austin High School Jazz Band performs many times a year in the Morgan County and Decatur area.  Its students have been selected for membership in the prestigious All-State Jazz Band, and have participated in numerous jazz clinics and camps throughout the southeastern United

Concert-goers are invited to bring their picnic baskets, lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy a free evening of entertainment on the banks of the beautiful Tennessee River.  Please call 256-341-4818 for more information. View a promotional video of Concerts by the River by FREEDOM LIGHT PRODUCTIONS by visiting www.decaturparks.com or at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6t73TNz2csc

Bass Fishing Tournament for Military and First Responders Set for May 18-19

First responders, active military personnel, police officers, firefighters, reservists, and members of the National Guard are invited to participate in the third annual Homeland Security Bass Fishing Tournament set for May 18-19, 2012, at Ingalls Harbor in Decatur.

Held exclusively for personnel that fall under the category of Homeland Security, the no-entry fee tournament is sponsored by The Boathouse, Serra Toyota of Decatur, American Bass Anglers, Triton Boats, Stratos Boats, Ranger Boats, WDRM 102.1, Rocket Harley-Davidson, Baron, Academy Sports and Outdoors, Lawler’s Barbeque, Pepsi of Decatur, Madison Travel Trailer, and GEICO. Retired military and veterans may also participate. 

On Friday, a big fish tournament will take place from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. with a big fish winner each hour. Anglers can weigh in one fish per person each hour. On Saturday, approximately 200 two-man teams are expected to compete for the $1000 first place cash prize, additional places, and draw prizes. Ingalls Harbor, located at 701 Market Street NW in Decatur, will host the take-offs and weigh-ins. Check-in begins at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday. Weigh-in will be held between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. For complete tournament rules and an entry form, visit www.the-boat-house.com or call 800.232.4428, 256.337.0909 or 256.652.3446. 

About the Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCCVB)

The Decatur-Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization promoting tourism and economic growth in Morgan County.  For information on special events and attractions in Decatur, contact the DMCCVB at 800.524.6181 or 256.350.2028; or visit its website at www.decaturcvb.org and click on the “Things to Do” link.

2012 Spirit of America Press Conference

Spirit of America Festival

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

3:00 pm

City Council Chambers

Decatur City Hall

 The Spirit of America Festival Board of Directors invites you to attend the 2012 Spirit of America Press Conference which will take place at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 in the Council Chambers located on the 1^st floor of the Decatur City Hall at 402 Lee Street NE in Decatur, Alabama.

Honorees for The Audie Murphy Patriotism Award,  The Barrett C. Shelton Freedom Award,  The Humanitarian Award,  and The John and Brenda Perry Support for Military Families Award will be announced.  The awards are a defining element of the Spirit of America Festival, and each year, special honorees receive awards commending their outstanding service, commitment and contribution to their county and fellow man. 

The Spirit of America Festival Board of Directors and the Miss Point Mallard Pageant Board of Directors will also proudly recognize Miss Callie Walker, who was crowned as Miss Point Mallard’s Outstanding Teen on July 3, 2011.  Callie represented Decatur at the 10^th annual state pageant in March, and was crowned as  Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen.  She will advance to the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition in August.  Callie is the first Miss Point Mallard’s Outstanding Teen to win the state title. 

The 2012 festival theme,  the fireworks sponsor, and a preview of activities to be featured at this year’s event will be highlighted.  A complete press packet with information on the festival, the awards and the recipients will be available at the event. 

For More Information:

David Carney  256-652-2460
Melinda M. Dunn  256-341-4818