Arts & Entertainment

Showing Austell Love with Music

Charlie Sexton, the minister of music at Clarkdale First Baptist Church, explains the purpose of Saturday's concert in the park.

On Saturday, South Cobbers can enjoy a free concert,sponsored by Clarkdale First Baptist Church, at Collar Park adjacent to Austell City Hall for free.

The event sprouted from members of the church feeling that something uplifting needed to be done in the Austell community.

"Several months ago, as a church body, we felt strongly that we needed to do more to reach out to our community, and just show them some love.  We decided to bring in some well-known and well-loved singers, and provide a FREE concert event as our way of saying 'We love you' to our many neighbors and friends," Charlie Sexton, Clarkdale First Baptist's minister of music, wrote in an email to South Cobb Patch.

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The organizers from the church contacted Graham of the Austell Parks Department and set a date. Then they booked The Nelons, who now live in Jacksonville, Fla., but are originally from Cobb County.

The Nelons "have a tremendous fan base here in South Cobb, particularly. They are frequently featured on the Bill Gaither Homecoming videos that are so popular," Sexton wrote. "This sweet family is excited about seeing many of their long time friends here at this mini-Homecoming event."

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The group has won six Dove awards and been nominated three times for Grammy Awards. Amber Nelon Thompson was also granted an audition for "American Idol," but felt it would compromise her Christian values to sing secular music and wear the clothing that would be provided for her.

Enlisted, a group from Rockmart, will also perform at Saturday's concert.

During the event, attendees can buy snacks and food at a concession stand and the public can meet and greet the performers, who wil be available throughout the evening for autographs and photos.

They will also have CDs and DVDs available to purchase.

Additionally, attendees will receive a full-color, 20-page "program book" with ads from local businesses.

Sexton wrote that getting out into the Austell community, on foot, to tell people about the concert has been heartwarming and the response has been amazing.

He wrote:

"Many have told us that they just needed to see a smiling face, and were glad that we crossed their paths.  Others actually asked us to have a short prayer with them. Some are still reeling from the massive flood destruction.  Others are concerned about their finances, and the economy.  Simply put, there seems to be a lot of uncertainty among the community, and we were very glad to get be able to brighten their day just a little with a friendly handshake, a smile, and sometimes, even a hug! We've also distributed some 250 passes for a FREE Hot Dog Meal with chips & drink that's redeemable at the concert. It's amazing at how appreciative folks have been to such a little gesture.  It has warmed our hearts, for sure!"

Those who plan to attend the event are encouraged to come out early and to bring a lawn chair or blanket. The show officially begins at 7 p.m. However, a pre-show will start at 6:15 p.m. featuring a bluegrass gospel band from the church and a young musician, Miranda Thompson.


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