A Celebration of Cranes Planned for Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Inaugural event kicks off Wheeler’s 75^th anniversary.

The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge will hold its first Festival of the Cranes, a one-day event filled with refuge tours, upclose viewings, workshops, live raptors, and nature walks, January 12, 2013, kicking off a year-long celebration of Wheeler’s 75^th anniversary. The celebration of Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes will bring together experienced birders and those who would like to learn more about birding while providing opportunities to learn about the cranes and other wildlife that calls the Refuge home.  

Over 11,000 Sandhill Cranes along with several pairs of Whooping Cranes spend the winter each year at Wheeler National Wildflife Refuge. Hosted by the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association, the Festival of the Cranes kicks off at 6 a.m. with a Sunrise Breakfast in the Visitor Center classroom. Following breakfast, Refuge Manager Dwight Cooley will lead an early morning birding walk to see cranes and other waterfowl arrive in the fields to begin their day of feeding and loafing. A $5 donation is suggested and participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and to bring binoculars and a camera.

Throughout the day, the enclosed Wildlife Observation Building, complete with bleachers and spotting scopes, will offer views of thousands of Sandhill Cranes, along with Whooping Cranes, ducks, geese, raptors, and maybe a bald eagle. Volunteers and staff members will be on hand to answer questions.

Acclaimed author, storyteller, and naturalist Brian “Fox” Ellis will be the special guest and featured speaker and will be presenting his Adventures with Audubon. His portrayal of Audubon will enchant participants with stories from some of the wildest places on Earth. At 9 a.m., he will host Bird is the Word writing workshop. In this participatory workshop, participants will learn tips for effective journaling, how to use poetry to help write clearer and more exciting essays, and how to turn field notes into publishable articles. At 11:30 a.m., he presents Bird Tales: Stories and Songs from Many Cultures, a blend of his lifelong love for birds and traditional folktales from different cultures. Through poetry and song, legends and facts, a celebration of all things crane is planned for 2:15 p.m. when Ellis presents Crane Tales Around the World. At 4 p.m., Ellis (as John James Audubon) concludes the day-long event with a recap of his tales from his travels and travails.

Additional activities include a showing of Hope Takes Wing, a film by and about Operation Migration chronicling the history of the Whooping crane; Raptor Trek! Alabama’s Premier Live Bird of Prey Experience featuring owls, hawks, falcons, and a Bald Eagle presented by Becky Collier of the Alabama 4-H Center; and children’s activities centering around the importance of cranes in Japanese culture. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association will sponsor a pizza lunch. A $5 donation to the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association is suggested. The day-long event concludes at 5 p.m.

The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located at 3121 Visitor Center Road in Decatur. For more information on the Festival of the Cranes, visit www.friendsofwheelerrefuge.org or call Teresa Adams, supervisory ranger for Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, at 256.350.6639.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge was established on July 7, 1938 by Executive Order of President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the first National Wildlife Refuge placed on a multi-purpose reservoir to provide habitat for wintering and migrating birds. Covering 35,000 acres, it attracts thousands of wintering waterfowl each year and is home to Alabama’s largest wintering duck population. The Refuge also supports the state’s largest concentration of Sandhill Cranes. The 75^th Anniversary Celebration featuring live raptors and wildlife, children’s activities, and special guest and master of ceremonies “T.R. Roosevelt” as portrayed by Joe Wiegand, is set for October 5, 2013. For more information on Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, visit www.fws.gov/wheeler. 

Dickens Christmas Carol on the Pickwick Belle

The Heart Behind the Music: A Songwriter's Showcase

Decatur’s historic Princess Theatre presents The Heart Behind the Music: A Songwriter’s Showcase on Monday, December 10 at 7:30pm.  A night of hit songs from the Billboard Pop, Gospel and Country charts performed by the artists themselves -- Lenny LeBlanc, John Ford Coley and Marty Raybon.  An upclose and personal look behind the songs like “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” and “Falling.”  Tickets available at 256.340.1778 or princesstheatre.org

Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music

Direct from a world tour and the Hollywood Bowl, Decatur’s Princess Theatre brings you the smash hit musical show Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music on Saturday, December 8 at 1PM.  It‘s a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical on the big screen complete with subtitles to sing a long!  A host leads the audience in vocal warm ups and takes them through their “magic moments packs” and the famous costume competition.  Tickets at 256.340.1778 or princesstheatre.org

Annual Parade of Lights Set for Saturday, December 8th

Sponsored by the Riverwalk Yacht Club and Extreme Marine, the annual Parade of Lights will take to the waterway, illuminating Decatur’s Wheeler Lake, on Saturday, December 8, 2012. The free holiday maritime event features approximately 25 boats of all types and sizes decorated with lights, holiday themes, and other festive trimmings for the holiday season. The public is also invited for a leisurely stroll around the docks for an up close look at the brightly lit boats prior to the parade.

Beginning at 4 p.m., the docks at Riverwalk Marina open allowing the public to admire the boats and their holiday decorations before they set sail. In addition, the Morgan County Humane Society will be on-hand with various animals available for adoption. With Christmas just around the corner, a new pet would be a wonderful present for someone. The Morgan County Humane Society will also be accepting donations of pet food, supplies, and cash.

At 6 p.m. the boat parade will take its usual circular route, making three trips from the entrance of Riverwalk Marina located on Highway 31, west to the Railroad Bridge, east in front of Rhodes Ferry Park to the Highway 31 bridge, and then back into the Marina. The best viewing will be at Rhodes Ferry Park, the Hard Dock Café or at the Marina. 

Anyone interested in participating in the parade or for more information, contact Bob Namie at 256.306.0909.

5K Obstacle Race to Raise Money for Relay for Life

Diamond Pro Sports is pleased to present the Gladiator Obstacle 5k Race, a 3.1 mile heart pounding race with proceeds to benefit Relay for Life. Set for December 8, 2012, the Gladiator Obstacle 5K Race features mental and physical challenges on an extreme mountain course in Eva, Alabama.

Designed for a fierce competitor or a thrill seeking leisure runner, the race is a test of endurance, strength and resilience all in a short distance. The elevation changing 5k course is filled with rugged terrain, barbed wire, steep climbs through leaves, trees, and limbs, rope climbs, and plenty of other obstacles to satisfy the most intense athletes. A video of the course may be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDVSl97zupU&feature=youtu.be.

Individual registration and teams of 4-8 participants are available. Cost is $45 per person. Proceeds from the race will help support Relay for Life.

The 5k Race will take place at 643 Lawrence Cove Road, Eva, Alabama, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the race, there will be food concessions, an after party and entertainment.

Registration is available online at http://gladiator5k.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 256.353.7771 or visit www.diamondprosports.net/gladiator. 

Historic Decatur's Annual Christmas Tradition Set for December 8th

 The Albany and Old Decatur Historic Districts will present their annual Historic Decatur Christmas Tour on Saturday, December 8, 2012. Nine homes - each traditionally decorated with luminaries, fruit and greenery, and thousands of lights - will be open for viewing as part of the self-guided tour from 2 to 8 p.m.  Along with the tour of homes, the annual event offers holiday decorating tips, carriage rides, refreshments, and live holiday music.  

Residences in the Albany and Old Decatur Historic Districts are not normally open for public viewing except when a select number of homes open their doors during the annual holiday tour. This year’s tour features nine stunning homes. Participating homes include the Dancy-Polk House Inn, the McEntire-Bennett House, the Jervis-Ellis House, the Campbell-Grisham House, the Thomas Cottage, the Foust-Rogers House, the Gibson-Henson House, the Papenburg-Hall House, and the Mangrum-Speegle House.

Along with the self-guided tour of homes, neighborhood churches will open their doors for inspirational concerts and refreshments. At 4 p.m., the Huntsville Spiritual Choral will perform at First Presbyterian Church. First United Methodist Church will offer historic sanctuary tours and First Presbyterian and Westminster Presbyterian Churches will feature Carillion Christmas Music. At 4 p.m., St. John Episcopal Church will hold a special presentation on historic Decatur architecture by Scott Schoel, AIA, of Schoel Architecture.

Carriage rides will be offered beginning at 2 p.m. at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center or at Delano Park near the tennis courts. Cost for the carriage ride is $10 per person. Free shuttle bus service will also be available from St. John’s Episcopal Church to the tour sites. Many merchants and restaurants throughout the downtown area will also be open during the tour.

Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased in advance at the Decatur/Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Bank Street Antiques, Trish Land Designs, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, and Jimmy Smith Jewelers. On the day of the tour, tickets can also be purchased at Trish Land Designs, Bank Street Antiques, Jimmy Smith Jewelers, and the Decatur/Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and at the Old State Bank, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, and St. John’s Episcopal Church from 2 to 7 p.m. For group sales, contact the Decatur/Morgan County Convention & Visitors Bureau at 256.350.2028. Proceeds from the tour are used to preserve, protect and enhance the character and legacy of the historic neighborhoods.

Combined, the Old Decatur and Albany Historic Districts represent one of the finest and largest collections of Victorian and earlier 20^th century craftsman and bungalow homes in Alabama. The homes date back, in some instances, to the early 1800s, while most were constructed around the turn of the 20th century.

For a schedule of events and more information on the historic homes, visit www.decaturchristmastour.com.

It's A Wonderful Life

Rotary Family Movie Night presents the movie IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE” on Monday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m. at Decatur’s Princess Theatre.  The 1946 classic stars James Stewart as George Bailey whose imminent suicide on Christmas Eve brings about the intervention of his guardian angel.  The Rotary Club of Decatur is sponsoring the FREE movie night immediately following the Downtown Christmas Parade.  Information at 256.340.1778 and princesstheatre.org.

Sloan Bibb- Minding His Own Beeswax

Carnegie Visual Arts Center presents the exhibit Sloane Bibb - Minding His Own Beeswax on display November 16, 2012 - January 12, 2013. The solo show of mixed media works features new works and works from private collections rarely seen on public display. The exhibit opens at 5 PM on November 16th during the Artist’s Reception at Fri. @ 5.

Sloane Bibb is a native Alabamian and currently resides in his hometown of Decatur. Bibb is a creative director for a design firm by day and artist by night. Sloane’s grandfather, William C. Bibb, nurtured his artistic endeavors at early age and continued his support throughout Sloane’s education. Sloane started his college education at Auburn University in industrial design, but switched to fine arts to pursue a degree in graphic design.

Part painting, part assemblage, part cultural tableau, Sloane’s work is a potpourri of acrylic paint, wood, metal, paper, canvas, found objects, tar, and beeswax. Simple motifs, including nature and the female form, stand in measured contrast to the quirky compositions, pointed imagery, and high-low mix of materials. The result is a wide ranging and ambitious imagery that captures the rich, black wink of Sloane’s skewed world view. Sloane’s work can be found in galleries in Santa Fe, NM, Park City, UT, Denver, CO and locally in galleries in Nashville, Fairhope, Fayetteville and Decatur.

Over 1,200 Dogs to Compete for Best in Show Title in Decatur

Decatur, Ala. – Hosted by the Decatur Alabama Kennel Club and The Huntsville Kennel Club, the Cotton Cluster Dog Shows are set for November 8-11, 2012 at the Morgan County Celebration Arena. Dogs ranging from puppy to the most experienced show dog will make their way to North Alabama to compete for the coveted title of “Best in Show”.

The Cotton Cluster Dog Shows are considered one of the largest area dog shows licensed by the American Kennel Club. Last year, over 1,200 dogs from all over the United States, Canada, and Mexico entered and competed. The Sheltie Club of North Alabama and The Poodle Club of Alabama will have their Designated Specialty Shows as in previous years, and new for this year, the Dachshund Club of Alabama will hold two concurrent shows.

Shows are held daily and spectators are welcome to attend. On Saturday, the Huntsville Kennel Club will award a $2000 scholarship for Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine to a student from northern Alabama.

A dog show such as the Cotton Cluster provides the perfect opportunity to pick your next “best friend.” Event organizers encourage anyone considering the purchase of a purebred dog to attend the Cotton Cluster Dog Shows and talk one-on-one with exhibitors about their breed. Admission is free. A small parking fee of $5 will be charged daily. The Morgan County Celebration Arena is located at 67 Horse Center Road (off Highway 67 East) in Decatur.

For show times and more information, visit the Huntsville Kennel Club’s website at www.huntsvillekennelclub.org or visit the Decatur Kennel Club’s website at www.DAKC.org. For additional information on the American Kennel Club, visit www.akc.org.

Decatur to Host Governor's Cup and Division I and II State Soccer Tournaments in 2012

The Alabama Youth Soccer Association (AYSA) has announced that the Division I Powerade State Cup (U15-U18), Division II State Cup (U14-U18), Governor’s Cup, and Division I Powerade Final Four will return to Decatur, Alabama in 2012. The city of Decatur has hosted the tournaments since 2007.

The Division I Powerade State Cup and Division II State Cup are set for November 2-4, 2012 with the Governor’s Cup and Division I Powerade State Cup Final Four following on November 9-11, 2012 at the Jack Allen Recreation Complex. The Governor’s Cup, a recreational competition at the state level, decides which teams are Division III (recreation) state champions and has been previously featured by the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel as the largest recreational tournament for 9- to 18-year olds in Alabama.
AYSA is the governing body for all soccer clubs in Alabama who qualify to participate in these events. For more information on the State Cup, Governor’s Cup, and Final Four tournaments, visit the AYSA’s website at www.alabamayouthsoccer.org.
The Jack Allen Recreation Complex contains 10 international size lighted fields with laser-graded certified sports turf and a computerized irrigation system. With the additional fields located in Point Mallard Park, Decatur has quickly become known nationally as a top rated soccer tournament location. For more information on the Jack Allen Recreation Complex, visit www.decatursports.com.

The Town of Falkville- Fall Festival

Decatur Parks and Recreation will show Monster House at Wilson Morgan Park as part of Trunk or Treat

Free MOVIE IN THE PARK to be held on Friday October 26, 2012 at 7:45

Put on your Halloween costume and join us at Decatur Park and Recreation Department’s Trunk or treat on from 6:00-8:00 PM on Friday, October 26, 2012 at Wilson Morgan Park and also enjoy a free movie at 7:45 that will get you “in the spirit” for Halloween!  The 2006 animated feature Monster House (PG, 91 minutes)  features three teens who work to save their neighborhood from a living, breathing scary monster house!  Trunk or Treat will take place from 6:00-8:00 and admission to this event is 2 cans of food. Children can win great prizes and enjoy games, concessions and a costume contest!  Tickets for games are 4 for $1.  It will be a “spook-tacular” night of fun for the family! 

This movie will be shown beginning at 7:45 and guests should bring blankets and/or lawn chairs.  The free “Movie in the Park” series is sponsored by the City of Decatur Parks and Recreation Department.  Efforts are made to select family-friendly or classic movies for audience viewing, however, parents are encouraged to review movies in advance for appropriateness to age, content and interests.  As this is a Halloween-themed movie, parents are particularly encouraged to review the movie in advance. 

Additional information on the movie can be obtained by contacting 256-341-4818 or visiting http://www.decaturparks.com/account.php?accountid=71.  Information on Trunk or Treat may also be found on the website or calling Suzanne Langdon at 256-341-4950.

In case of inclement weather, cancellation information will be posted on the DPR website and on the DPR  and Decatur, Alabama Facebook pages.

2012 Cabela's BASS Federation Nation Championship to be Held on Wheeler Lake

Wheeler Lake has been selected as the site of the 2012 Cabela’s B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Championship, October 25-27. The national tournament includes the top B.A.S.S. club anglers from 47 states, seven international chapter champions and the Angler of the Year from the Paralyzed Veterans of America Bass Fishing circuit. This marks the tournament’s first appearance in the River City.

“We look forward to holding the championship in Decatur and Wheeler Lake,” said Don Corkran, director of B.A.S.S. Federation Nation. “It has been a number of years since we held this event in Alabama, and it’s great to be back home.” In November, 2011, B.A.S.S. relocated its headquarters from Celebration, Fla., to Birmingham, Ala., bringing the company back to the state where it was founded over forty years ago.

“We are thrilled B.A.S.S. has selected Wheeler Lake for its 2012 B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Championship,” said Tami Reist, president of the Decatur/Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “This will be the first appearance for the Bassmaster Federation Nation Championship to be held at Ingalls Harbor, and we are anticipating an exciting three days of competition.”

Daily launches and weigh-ins for the Cabela’s B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Championship will take place at Ingalls Harbor in Decatur and are free and open to the public. Launch time is set for 6:45 a.m. and weigh-in begins at 3:15 p.m. each day of the tournament.

The B.A.S.S. Federation Nation is comprised of local clubs, which are organized in 47 states and seven countries – Canada, Italy, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, Spain and Zimbabwe. The Bassmaster Federation Nation Championship overall winner also earns a place in the prestigious Bassmaster Elite Series. For more information, visit www.bassmaster.com/federation-series. 

Trunk or Treat

Downtown Decatur Goes Pink for Monthly 3rd Friday Celebration

Decatur, Ala. – Downtown Decatur’s monthly block party takes to the streets in October promising an evening filled with live music, family-friendly entertainment, and special sales while sporting a pretty shade of pink. Set for October 19, 3^rd Friday Downtown Decatur announces Power of Pink as its theme for its monthly celebration in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The block party officially kicks off at 5 p.m.

Many shops will be decorated in all shades of pink to reflect the Power of Pink theme and will offer a variety of specials, sales, and giveaways. In addition to the color of pink, expect lots of orange and black and spooks and treats in anticipation of the upcoming Halloween holiday. Local merchants invite children to don their Halloween costumes for some trick or treating while participating in the many games and activities held throughout the evening.  

Blocks of both Bank Street and Second Avenue will be closed and festival goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy a relaxing evening in downtown Decatur. Local favorite Southern Comfort is slated to headline the Bank Street Music Stage with Biminy Road set to perform on the Casa Grande Park Music Stage. The Brick will offer live music outside on the patio and spooky decorations on the inside. On Bank Street, Laci Atchison will offer entertainment for patrons at Simp McGhee’s and Kim Stone will be performing at Memi’s and The Paper Chase.   

The Sweet Tones Dulcimer Ensemble from the Morgan County Dulcimer Association will perform in the 600 block of Bank Street, Clarence Root will entertain in the 700 block of Bank Street, and the Bank Street Antique Mall will host chair caning demonstrations.

All along Bank Street, classic cars and vintage beauties will be on display while Volkswagens can be found along Second Avenue. Both streets will also be filled with a variety of arts and crafts vendors, and many of the merchants will remain open until 8 p.m. and will offer store specials, giveaways, and discounts.

Members of the Carnegie Visual Arts Center are invited to its monthly Fri. @ 5. On display is Abraham Lincoln: A Man of His time, A Man for All Times, a national traveling exhibition organized by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Complimentary appetizers and beverages will be served. Suggested donation is $4 for members and $15 for member’s guests. Attendees should be 21 years of age or accompanied by a parent. Call 256.341.0562 to RSVP.

Participating streets in 3^rd Fridays include Second Avenue, Bank, Market, Moulton, Grant, and Johnston Streets. Admission is free. For more information, call Ashley Ashwander at 256.355.8993 or visit its Facebook page for the latest information.

Decatur to Host Governor's Cup and Division I and II State Soccer Tournaments in 2012

The Alabama Youth Soccer Association (AYSA) has announced that the Division I Powerade State Cup (U15-U18), Division II State Cup (U14-U18), Governor’s Cup, and Division I Powerade Final Four will return to Decatur, Alabama in 2012. The city of Decatur has hosted the tournaments since 2007.

The Division I Powerade State Cup and Division II State Cup are set for November 2-4, 2012 with the Governor’s Cup and Division I Powerade State Cup Final Four following on November 9-11, 2012 at the Jack Allen Recreation Complex. The Governor’s Cup, a recreational competition at the state level, decides which teams are Division III (recreation) state champions and has been previously featured by the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel as the largest recreational tournament for 9- to 18-year olds in Alabama.

AYSA is the governing body for all soccer clubs in Alabama who qualify to participate in these events. For more information on the State Cup, Governor’s Cup, and Final Four tournaments, visit the AYSA’s website at www.alabamayouthsoccer.org. 

The Jack Allen Recreation Complex contains 10 international size lighted fields with laser-graded certified sports turf and a computerized irrigation system. With the additional fields located in Point Mallard Park, Decatur has quickly become known nationally as a top rated soccer tournament location. For more information on the Jack Allen Recreation Complex, visit www.decatursports.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, contact the DMCCVB at 800.524.6181 or 256.350.2028; or visit its website at www.decaturcvb.org. 

22nd Annual Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show Set for October 11-13 in Decatur

One of the largest Saddlebred shows in the southeastern United States is set to return to Decatur in October. The Alabama Charity Championship Horse Show attracts 700 horses from over fifteen states to the Morgan County Celebration Arena where amateurs and professionals compete for top honors and prize money while raising money for charity.

The 22^nd event is set for October 11-13, 2012. Show hours are nightly at 6 p.m. Additional shows are at 10 a.m. on Thursday and Friday and at 9 a.m. on Saturday. In addition to the competition, vendors will have displays set up selling horse-related items ranging from oil paintings to clothing items. Admission is free.  

The Charity Horse Show offers open classes in which entries may be shown by juveniles, amateurs, and professionals, all competing for prize money, ribbons and trophies. Proceeds from the competition benefit the Junior League of Morgan County and the Children’s Hands On Museum at the Carnegie Visual Art Center.

Sponsorships are available for the 2012 show. The Morgan County Celebration Arena is located at 67 Horse Center Road (off Highway 67 East) in Decatur. For more information, contact Janet Byron at 256.654.0142.  For more information on the Saddlebred breed, visit the American Saddlebred Horse Association at www.asha.net.

14th Annual Jesse Owens Cross Country Classic Set for October 6, 2012

Decatur, Ala. – Approximately 5,000 high school athletes are expected to compete in the 14^th annual Jesse Owens Cross Country Classic Invitational set for Saturday, October 6, 2012. Hosted by the Jesse Owens Runners’ Club, the race begins at 8:15 a.m. and is held on the championship course located on the grounds of the Oakville Indian Mounds Education Center.   

The Jesse Owens Cross Country Classic brings junior high and high school students from all over the United States for a competitive race honoring one of Alabama’s greatest athletes. Born in 1913 in Oakville, Alabama, Jesse Owens captured four gold medals at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin overcoming racial and socioeconomic barriers. In 1955, he was named Ambassador of Sports by President Eisenhower and toured the world promoting the virtues of amateur programs. 

According to Race Director Stanley Johnson, nearly 5,000 high school runners from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, and Mississippi competed in the 2011 event, setting a new record for entries. The race began in 1999 with approximately 450 participants. 

The competition offers 14 divisions for boys and girls. The top 10 finishers in each division receive a special award with the overall winner in each division winning a trophy. Registration deadline is October 1, 2012. To register online, go to www.cfpitiming.com and click on the Jesse Owens logo. For more information including race times and a schedule of events, visit http://alabamahighschoolrunner.com or call Coach Stanley Johnson at 256.566.4410.

 The championship course is also great for spectators who want to witness competitive racing from the sidelines. Oakville Indian Mounds Education Center is located approximately 8 miles south of Moulton on Alabama Highway 157 and 1/2 mile from the Jesse Owens Memorial Park. Admission is free. A parking donation of $2 per car is suggested to help support the Education Center. 

17th Annual Wild Game Cook-off Set for October 2, 2012

Backyard chefs and amateur teams are invited to show off their wild game culinary skills at the 17^th annual Wild Game Cook-off set for Tuesday, October 2, 2012. Hosted by the Morgan County Chapter of the Alabama Wildlife Federation, the annual event typically attracts over 40 teams who prepare creative entrees using turkey, quail, wild pig, venison, duck, and fish. And, for those more interested in what wild game tastes like, samples will be provided by those competing.

The friendly competition contains three divisions – Fish, Fowl, and Game. First, second, and third place awards will be given to the teams with the tastiest treats in each division in addition to awards for the Best Overall Winner, Best Presentation, and People’s Choice. There is no entry fee to compete. Pre-registration is required for all teams no later than October 3^rd.

Along with the cook-off and samplings, the event also offers music, silent auction, and door prizes for children and adults. All activities take place at Ingalls Harbor located at 802 Wilson Street NW. Gate opens at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $35 per couple/person and children under 16 years old are admitted free. The ticket price includes a one-year membership in the Alabama wildlife Federation, a subscription to the Alabama Wildlife magazine, and all of the free samples from those competing at the cook-off. All proceeds from the event will benefit AWF, the oldest and largest non-profit conservation organization in Alabama.

For more information or to register, please call David Thomas at 256.606.4161, Jill Stone at 256.318.4422, or Sam Glover at 256.318.0157.

The Alabama Wildlife Federation was established by sportsmen in 1935 to promote conservation and wise use of Alabama’s wildlife and related natural resources as a basis for economic and social prosperity. To learn more about the AWF, call 800-822-WILD or visit www.alabamawildlife.org.

Downtown Is Goin' to the Dogs!

Downtown Decatur is going to the dogs at this month’s 3^rd Friday celebration. Set for Friday, September 21^st, 3^rd Friday Downtown Decatur invites everyone to come be a part of the excitement and enjoy an evening of live music, a dog parade, food, and free family fun. The festivities get underway at 5 p.m.  

Dogs of all shapes and sizes are invited to take part in a parade through the streets of downtown Decatur. Led by Grand Marshall Cookie Stoner and unofficial, but elected Mayor of Bank Street, Beau, the parade begins at the corner of Grant Street and 2^nd Avenue and travels to Lee Street then Bank Street, ending at Bank Street Green. Registration is free but must be made in advance to participate in the parade. Owners are encouraged to dress their canines up. Registration will be at Jones Park on 2^nd Avenue (next to the old Maria Bonita) from 5 to 5:45 p.m. and goodie packets will be provided by Downtown Dawgs, sponsor of this year’s dog parade.

Live music gears up at 5 p.m. with performances by Nadaband (at Casa Grande Park), Kim Stone (at All-Wright Bakery and Eatery and 500 block of Bank Street), and Sweet Tones Dulcimer Ensemble from the Morgan County Dulcimer Association (in the 600 block of Bank Street). The Brick will offer live music on the patio and the Main Stage located in the 800 block of Bank Street will feature Briana Dean and Bank.

All-Wright Bakery and Eatery located on Moulton Street will host a tasting in the shop from 4:30 until 7:30 p.m. Samples of old favorites such as chicken salad and cheese straws as well as new bakery items including a variety of cakeballs will be provided.

All along Bank Street, antique and classic cars will be on display, Papa Murphy’s Pizza will be providing free samples of its pizza, and Babette Shedd will be face painting (for a nominal fee). Bank Street Antique Mall will host chair caning demonstrations outside of its entrance. Volkswagens will fill Second Avenue and a variety of arts and crafts will be on hand along both streets. Blocks of both Bank Street and Second Avenue will be closed with the cross streets open for traffic.  

For those who want to make 3^rd Fridays a getaway, Amberley Suite Hotel on Bank Street will offer a 25% discount on rooms (must mention Decatur Daily ad or Facebook ad to receive discount),

Members of the Carnegie Visual Arts Center are invited to its monthly Fri. @ 5. On display is the 10^th annual Embracing Art: A Coming Together of Area Amateur and Professional Artists. Complimentary appetizers and beverages will be served. Suggested donation is $4 for members and $15 for member’s guests. Attendees should be 21 years of age or accompanied by a parent. Call 256.341.0562 to RSVP.

Store specials including a Vera Bradley Sidewalk Sale at The Paper Chase, giveaways, and discounts will be offered at selected retailers and restaurants and many of the merchants will remain open until 8 p.m. Participating streets in 3^rd Fridays include 2^nd Avenue, Bank, Market, Moulton, Grant, and Johnston streets. Admission is free.

For more information on 3^rd Friday, call Ashley Ashwander at 256.355.8993.

Ingalls Harbor to Host FLW Tour Open

FLW Outdoors will bring its Walmart FLW Tour Open to Ingalls Harbor in Decatur September 20-23, 2012. The tournament will feature 150-boat fields where pro anglers will compete for a top award of up to $125,000 and co-anglers will vie for a top prize of up to $25,000. Spectators are invited to join in on the fun of competitive fishing by attending the weigh-ins and a free outdoors expo.

Daily launches and weigh-ins are free and open to the public. Launch time at Ingalls Harbor is set for 6:30 a.m. daily. Ingalls Harbor is located at 802 Wilson Street NW. On the first and second days of the tournament, weigh-ins begin at 3 p.m. and will take place at Ingalls Harbor. Weigh-ins on days three and four are set for 4 p.m. at Walmart located at 2800 Spring Avenue SW in Decatur.

A free Outdoors Expo is set for September 22^nd and 23^rd from noon to 4 p.m. at Walmart prior to the final weigh-ins. The Expo includes Ranger boat simulators, the opportunity to interact with professional anglers and learn more about the sport of fishing, and interactive games, activities, and giveaways provided by sponsors. All activities are free and open to the public.

Coverage of the Wheeler Lake tournament will be broadcast in high-definition (HD) on NBC Sports Network when “FLW” airs Oct. 28 from 1 to 2 p.m. EST. “FLW” is hosted by Jason Harper and is broadcast to more than 559 million households worldwide, make it the most widely distributed weekly outdoors-sports television show in the world.

FLW Outdoors, named after Forrest L. Wood, the legendary founder of Ranger Boats, is the largest tournament-fishing organization in the world, offering anglers the chance to win millions through 191 tournaments in 2011. For more information, visit www.flwoutdoors.com and click on Walmart FLW Tour found under the Tournaments tab or call 270.252.1000.   

From Greased Pigs to Jumping Frogs, 24th Annual Frontier Days Serve Up Old-fashioned Fun, Games and Crafts

Decatur, Ala. – A greased pig chase, frog jumping contest, and toe tapping music take center stage at the annual Eva Frontier Days. Offering old-fashioned fun for the entire family, the 24^th annual community celebration begins September 22 and concludes on September 29, 2012.

The week-long event kicks off with a beauty pageant Saturday, September 22^nd at 10 a.m. at Journey Church. Admission is $3 per person. Later in the evening, a bluegrass festival with Stan Nelson & Hurricane Creek and other toe-tapping performers is slated for 6 p.m. Admission is $6 per person. On Tuesday, September 25^th, 6:30 p.m., at the Eva Saddle Club Arena, there will be an old-fashioned hayride. Cost is $1 per person and includes a free hotdog and coke. The public is also invited to free community singing at Eva Baptist Church on September 27^th beginning at 7 p.m. On Friday, September 28^th, the streets of downtown Eva will come alive when festival goers take part in a street dance beginning at 6 p.m. with music by Walker Street Opry Band.

The fun continues on Saturday, September 29^th beginning at 9 a.m. with an Antique Tractor Show and Car Show, a parade, a craft show, a Best Dressed Contest, pig calling contest, art contest, and a baking contest. Along with food vendors, there will be an assortment of games and activities for all ages. Live music fills the air by David Davis and the Warrior River Boys from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. The day wraps up at the ball fields with the frog jumping contest at 4 p.m. followed by the greased pig chase at 5 p.m.

Proceeds from Eva Frontier Days benefit the Eva Art Guild. For more information including a schedule of events, visit www.evafrontierdays.org or call 256.796.7023 or 256.796.6981.

New Grand Champion to be Named- Racking Horse

With more than 177 classes for children, adults, amateurs, and professionals, the largest Racking Horse Show in the United States is set for September 21-29, 2012 at the Morgan County Celebration Arena located at 67 Horse Center Road (off Highway 67 East) in Decatur. The nine day competition culminates with the announcement of the new World Grand Champion and show organizers extend an invitation to the general public to come and experience the excitement of crowning a new grand champion.

The annual World Celebration also offers other activities, including a dog show, horse sales, a barn decorating contest, nightly consignment sales, and a golf tournament. The general public is invited to participate in the Pleasure Association’s 50/50 raffle and the “When Pigs Fly” contest. Each night of the show, participants can attempt to fly a pig toward a target with the closest one winning a cash prize. On Saturday night prior to announcing the World Grand Champion, children are invited to participate in the “Stick Horse” class. This event allows children to bring their own stick horse for friendly competition in the arena.

Shows are held nightly at 6 p.m. except on Wednesday when show time begins at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $5 per person September 21through 26 and $7 per person for the remaining nights of the competition. Parking is $5/daily.

With the formation of the Racking Horse Breeders Association of America (RHBAA) in 1971, the Racking Horse has grown in popularity. Today, there are over 80,000 racking horses registered with the RHBAA, a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Decatur, Alabama.  The Alabama Legislature proclaimed the racking horse as the “Official State Horse for the State of Alabama” on October 5, 1975.

For more information on the 2012 Racking Horse World Celebration including a schedule of events, visit its new website at www.rackinghorse.com or contact the RHBAA at 256.353.7225.

Decatur to Host Alabama State Chess Championship

Decatur to Host Alabama State Chess Championship September 28-30

The Alabama Chess Federation recently announced it is bringing its 2012 Alabama State Chess Championship to Decatur September 28-30. The State Championship is Alabama’s most prestigious tournament typically drawing up to 100 of the state’s best chess players to the three-day event.

The 2012 tournament was awarded to the Huntsville Chess Club who is organizing the event in cooperation with the Decatur Parks and Recreation Department. The event will take place at the T. C. Almon Recreation Center located in Point Mallard Park in Decatur. On-site registration will be available on September 28^th from 6 to 6:45 p.m. with rounds beginning at 7 p.m. Rounds resume Saturday at 9:15 a.m. and again on Sunday at 8:30 a.m.

The championship event will feature an Open and a Reserve section where cash prizes totaling over $2100 will be awarded to the top four players in each section. In addition, a one-day scholastic tournament will be held for scholastic players (grades K-12) on September 29^th. This event will have three rated sections for players of various playing levels. On-site registration for the scholastic tournament is at 8:30 a.m. with rounds set at 9:45 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:15 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

The tournament is sponsored by the Alabama Chess Federation, a non-profit corporation and the United States Chess Federation affiliate for the state of Alabama whose goal is to promote chess in the state for the benefit of all Alabama players. For more information, visit www.alabamachess.com or contact Neil Dietsch, president of the Alabama Chess Federation, at 205.391.9648.