By By Adrienne McKenzie
Kids get your vocal chords ready for some karaoke madness at the Atmore Area YMCA and Community Center.
Ashley Dawn, owner of Ashley Dawn "A DJ and Performing Company," is hosting a fundraiser entitled "Kids Karaoke."
Dawn's company offers many services including DJ services, karaoke, and they perform live music at weddings, corporate parties, festivals and fundraisers.
"We also offer guitar lessons and would like to expand our services to the YMCA," Dawn said. "The idea first presented itself when I was in need of a larger facility to teach and the YMCA had the space. When I spoke with the director of the YMCA, Tammy Graham, she stated that she 'would have liked to begin a music program long ago, but that she had no one willing to teach.' Being a member of the YMCA myself, I wanted to help."
That is when Dawn decided to start a fundraiser to raise money for the program at the Y.
"To kick off the fundraiser, we decided to host 'Kids Karaoke' on Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. at the YMCA gym," Dawn said. "Whether you are 4 years old or 64, come and sing your heart out. We have tons of songs to choose from. And the best part of all is that it's free admission. There will also be live music, door prizes and food."
Dawn has sent letters to local businesses asking for donations and merchandise. The funds collected will be used to purchase instruments and supplies. The different merchandise will either be auctioned off or given away as door prizes.
The company will also sponsor a raffle with a three-day/two-night family vacation being the grand prize. The drawing will be held at the end of the karaoke event. Tickets for the raffle are $5 each and can be found at the Y and at Chuck Stevens Chevrolet in Atmore.
The first class that will be offered at the YMCA will be beginning guitar. It will begin in February 2008.
Dawn has played the guitar since high school. She has performed at many different arenas and has also competed in many competitions including the local Mayfest Idol. Dawn has also opened for many artists. She's a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. She was born in Brigham City, Utah. She moved to Pace, Fla. in 2000 and to Atmore in September 2005.
Dawn's mission for her beloved students is "to expand the knowledge and instill the confidence each student needs to become a more skilled musician."