Kick back and enjoy Jam on Sloss Lake

RUSSELLVILLE Paula McDougle of the band Purpose said her group enjoys performing for the annual Jam on Sloss Lake.

“We’re just honored to be a part of the Jam,” she said. “It’s a free event where people can come together and fellowship. In this time that we live in, people can’t get together much anymore. This is one of those big events where people can just kick back and come together as a Franklin County family.”

This year’s event returns Friday with free admission and a day packed with music, fireworks and family fun.

McDougle said getting the chance to perform at home is special.

“We travel so much that we’re not home in this area often,” she said. “To get to be home, to sing in front of home folk is a warm feeling.”

The Kerry Gilbert Band has played every year since the beginning.

“It’s a tradition now,” Gilbert said. “It’s special because it’s in my hometown. I started playing music here 40 years ago, and I love Russellville.”

Gilbert emphasized the spirit of the day.

“It’s a special feeling,” he said. “We’re there to celebrate our country and the people that come out to this free event. It allows everyone to participate, no matter their status in life. It’s not about us, it’s about the people. It’s about our country.”

Parking is available in the main area, along John Blackwell Drive, and in overflow lots near Innovative Park Products on Ligon Street. The city encourages attendees to check its QR code link for weather updates closer to the event.

The schedule includes:

• Car sShow registration is from 7 to 11 a.m.

• Inflatables and splash pad open at noon.

• Gospel group Purpose performs at 5 p.m.

• Country group Kerry Gilbert Band performs at 6:10 p.m.

• Oldies/Motown group Rewind performs at 7:15 p.m.

• Headline Darryl Worley performs at 8:30 p.m.

• Fireworks show will be after the entertainment.

The 14th annual Cotton Flats Cruisers Car Show will welcome cars, trucks and bikes.

The registration fee is $25. Prizes include ten $100 awards, one $500 grand prize and a 50/50 drawing. No swap meet spaces are available.

Call Darryl Gholston at 256-436-2499 for information.

Mayor David Grissom said it’s a celebration he always looks forward to each year.

“It’s just a great time to celebrate our freedom on that day,” he said. “It’s something we started many years ago and it’s gotten bigger every year.”

Grissom credited city departments and utility boards for helping keep the event free.

“Everybody works hard,” he added. “Councilman Gary Cummings heads this up every year. It’s really a big team effort with everybody involved.”