See dancing, play and fashion show at free DYS jam

Wendy’s word

Sand crab hunting — an annual highlight at the beach. We love the challenge of finding the most and the biggest. The quest, however, can be difficult, as the crab blends right in with the white sand. All you can see are the little, black eyes reflecting in the flashlight.

Do you blend in with your surroundings or stand out like the eyes of the sand crab? Are you making your mark on the world for all to see or just fading into the background of life?

Just as the “eyes” lead us to the catch, find your niche in the world, showing others what makes you reflect when the light hits you. You were born an original — don’t live your life a copy.

Now let’s see what the “chatter” is for today ...

Back to School Jam

Looking for one last summer activity, perhaps one with a life lesson? Check out the Back to School Jam presented by Decatur Youth Services. This free event is Aug. 3 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Brookhaven Middle School.

Under the direction of Alice Hargrove Cutts, the theatrical performance features the biblical story of the prodigal son. The story puts a modern spin on the story of the son who leaves home, exhausting all his inheritance, and ultimately, realizing his mistake and returning home seeking forgiveness from his father. It features a cast of about 15 youths.

Organizers say the play is a departure from previous jams, which often featured talent contests, such as rap singing. The location also changes from Delano Park to Brookhaven.

DYS Director Bruce Jones said previous Back to School Jams were successful, but they hope the change in venues and themes will give youths a chance to learn and grow in the performing arts.

Besides the play, DYS step dancers and Alabama Extreme Dance Team will perform. DYS Girls to Women participants will also present a fashion show of clothes they learned to sew this summer.

The free event also includes hamburger/hot dog cookout and free book bags to the first 500 students who attend the play.

For more information, call DYS at 340-2588.

At the beach

On vacation in Orange Beach this week were Chris and Denise Partain, along with children Emma and Collin. Joining them were several friends and family members, including Chris and April Lee, with children Cooper and Carsyn.

Also catching some rays at a family reunion in Orange Beach were Shannon Buchanan and children Kristen and Michael.

Model search wants you

If having fun in the sun is something you love and feel comfortable with, check out auditioning for the 2008 Point Mallard Park Model Search.

Auditions, which are open to models of all ages and sizes, will go from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 inside the J. Gilmer Blackburn Aquatic Center. Models younger than 18 must have a parent or guardian’s permission to enter. The event is open to qualifying park patrons at an admission rate of $15, ages 12 and up, and $10, ages 5 to 11. Children 4 and younger are admitted free.

“We’re looking for real people who love to have fun, not just those who look good in photographs,” said Julianne Lowman, marketing coordinator. “Personality is also very important.” Lowman mentioned that at last year’s auditions dozens of hopefuls came out but just weren’t dressed for the part.

“We saw so many primped and starched kids, as well as older participants with just too much makeup. They just didn’t fit the ‘fun in the sun’ description. Come as you are,” she encourages, “even if it’s right out of the pool with wet hair and all.”

Winners will be used in a variety of Point Mallard’s 2008 advertising campaigns, including brochures, print advertising, billboards and television commercials.

Forms may be picked up the day of the event or downloaded from the park’s Web site at www.PointMallardPark.com (click on the Special Events link). Additional information can also be obtained by calling 341-49.

That’s all for now. It’s been great “chattin” with ya!

Share your experiences

Have you traveled? Welcomed out-of-town guests? Gathered with family and friends at the beach or at the lake? Stayed at home and enjoyed supper clubs or other social functions? Chatterbox wants to share your fun times. Take a minute today to send me an e-mail (ddchatterbox@yahoo.com) or call (350-5730) in the exciting moments you’ve enjoyed this summer. I look forward to hearing from you.

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