By By MaryClaire Foster
Since my move to Atmore, I have been given the chance to observe, attend or participate in some of the best experiences of my life.
Saturday was no exception as I was able to attend both the Fiddler’s Convention and the casino’s Star Search.
The Fiddler’s Convention was the first of its kind for me to attend, and I can honestly say I enjoyed it. Lucky for me I already have an inclination to bluegrass music plus it was an impressive group of talented people.
I’d have to say though that the best part of it was something not everyone got to experience. It was what went on backstage. Every room you went in had a band going. Whether they came there as a band or not they all joined in on the backstage jam sessions. One person would start playing, and so it seemed to my musically disinclined self, the others would magically, seamlessly join in.
Musical talent has always both bewildered and eluded me; however, music is one of my favorite things in life and I always appreciate a good performance.
My musically filled day continued into the night with the Star Search competition at Wind Creek Casino and Hotel where I was a judge.
I joined two men, Bill Black and Steve Powers, from Clear Channel radio, who, like me, had not been attending the weekly performances and were deemed unbiased.
Unlike me, the two were well spoken and didn’t choke when it came their turn to comment on the first round of performances while I spouted off something about being more of a writer than a speaker. Awkward moments rule my life, this being no exception, and I just laughed and did my best to redeem myself in the second round of commenting.
Also redeeming themselves in the second go round were the contestants who really took the opportunity to show off their talents.
The experience was yet another I never would have had had I not moved to Atmore. I know I’ve said it before, but for such a small town, it really has been a big adventure, one I hate to see end.
I want to say thank you to all of the people who have expressed their remorse in seeing me leave. It really means a lot to me and lets me know I really have become a part of the community. More than anything though, it has been the kinds words and well wishes about my mother that have meant the most and for that I am forever grateful.
MaryClaire Foster is news editor for The Atmore Advance. She can be reached via email at lifestyles@atmoreadvance.com