Charity Concert

Some of country music's top artists are coming to Early County next week along with some top hunting professionals for a week of turkey hunting and a benefit concert and it's called Country Goes Huntin'.

"Bringin' it back to the camp," the theme of the 8th annual Country Goes Huntin', sums up the sentiment of cofounder Sam Klement, "We want to bring the event home to Early County where it originated."

The concert event will be Tuesday, March 31 at "Goocher Holler" located 10 miles south of Blakely on U.S. 27. The gates will open at 5 p.m. The local band Durty South will play at 6 p.m. and the country artists will take the stage at 7 p.m.

The $100 tickets include the concert, dinner, raw oysters and a chance to mingle with the stars. Tickets are available at the Chamber of Commerce. Call 723- 3741 for more information.

Since 2003 dozens of charities have benefited including the Wiregrass Children's Home, Georgia Sheriffs Association, Wheelin' Sportsmen, the Arthritis Foundation and the American Cancer Society. Each artist that participates donates their time and receives a portion of the proceeds to go to their favorite charity.

Country artists expected to participate in next week's event include Aaron Tippin, Blake Shelton, Colt Ford, Rhett Akins, Lorrie Morgan, Daryle Singletary, Bobby Pinson, Buddy Jewell, Dallas Davidson, Daniel Lee Martin, Killer Beaz, Lo Cash Cowboys and Tyler Farr.

Michael Waddell, host of the hottest new outdoor TV show Bone Collectors says, "It's like having a back stage pass to the coolest hunting camp in the country!"

In addition to the concert, there is an online silent auction where you can bid on items donated to Country Goes Huntin', including one of a kind items and special hunts. The auction will end April 2, 2009. For more information go to www.camospace.com.

The Blakely-Early County Chamber of Commerce is helping plan the event. "This is an opportunity for Early County to get national exposure on Outdoor Network shows Bone Collectors, Realtree Roadtrips, HS Outdoors and at least six other top rated TV shows," stated chamber president Hilary Halford.

For more information or if you would like to be involved with the event, contact Hilary Halford at 723-3741 or log onto www.countrygoeshuntin. com.