JoyFest to bring choirs to Myrtle Hill for free concert

An evening of inspirational music is planned on May 14 as the South Rome Redevelopment Corporation throws a party for all of Rome.

The SRRC has been busy with housing, education and infrastructure issues for more than a decade. Now, the corporation wants to show its appreciation to the community, especially South Rome, during the JoyFest celebration.

The event will feature several choirs performing inspirational and patriotic music in front the Myrtle Hill Mausoleum from 4-6 p.m.

Lisa Smith, director of the Greater Rome Convention and Visitors Bureau, will serve as the master of ceremonies.

“Bring your lawn chairs, snacks and cooler, but no alcohol please,” said Bill Kerestes, a member of the SRRC board. Parking will be available along Branham Avenue.

“This is just an opportunity to try to do something to show our appreciation for the community,” said Kerestes. “Hopefully this will bring the community together. South Rome has been our focal point, but we want to invite everybody from all over Rome.”

The event will begin with music from the Just As I Am special needs adults choir. Mayor Jamie Doss is slated to make a few remarks and the Anna K. Davie Elementary School chorus will also perform.

The choirs will be on a patio area, which serves as a natural stage. Visitors will be able to set up lawn chairs facing the mausoleum.

State Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome, is scheduled to speak, followed by singing by the Lovejoy Baptist Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church choirs.

At the end of the event, all of the choirs will come together to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner,” which will be followed by a 21-gun salute from the Shanklin-Attaway American Legion Post 5. A bugler will sound Taps to close the event.

The event will be free, thanks to sponsorship from Daniels Funeral Home, F.K. Jones Funeral Director, Good Shepherd Funeral Home, Henderson & Sons Funeral Home and Wright Memorial Mortuary.