Another successful Hoedown in the books for Phil Campbell
by Bart Moss for the FCT
The 14th annual Phil Campbell Hoedown was a success according to town officials and organizers.
“It was a great event,” said Phil Campbell Mayor Steve Bell. “It is great to have a time for everyone to come out and have a good time, listen to good music, and relax. I want to thank everyone who supported the festival this year.”
A crowd turned out Friday night for gospel music. Short-term high winds from a thunderstorm to the south forced some to seek shelter, but the weather, on the whole, was perfect.
“We had a great crowd,” said Rita Barton, director of the Phil Campbell Park & Recreation Department. “The World War II re-enactment was really exciting. We had a lot show up to see that. We had a lot of great booths and games this year. There was something for everyone.”
Festivities began early Saturday morning with the Judy James 5K race and fun run. The profits from the race went to benefit pancreatic cancer research. Fifty participated by running or walking in the race. The best time came from Nick Klein, who posted a 17:44 time.
“I want to thank everyone who participated in this race,” said Tyler James, Judy James’ son. “This is a very special event to my family, and we use it to honor her memory and help do our small part to fight this disease.”
The opening ceremonies featured a welcome by Mayor Steve Bell, the Pledge of Allegiance by the local Girl Scout troop, the National Anthem by Phil Campbell High School student Kayla Hamilton, and recognition of PCHS student Elizabeth Benford, who won Secretary of State at Girl’s State this summer.
The World War II re-enactment portrayed a group of British paratroopers complete with original, restored WWII vehicles, memorabilia, smoke bombs and loud gunfire.
Finally, the annual car show featured a new twist this year, being named after Millie Baker, a 3-year-old Phil Campbell girl being treated for cancer.
“The support shown by the community each time there has been event with Millie’s name on it has been overwhelming,” said Millie’s father, Curtis Baker. “The car show raised a little over $1,300. We just want to thank everyone involved and everyone who participated.”
