Scene 13: Music Fests (& More) Rock Central GA

We're kickin' things off with a BBQ, but this ain't ya papa's BBQ!

Friday night, the Junior League of Macon invites you to the Macon Marriott City Center Hotel to launch a whole week of Marketplace merriment. Rachel Phillips explains, "We'll have our kick-off party - Blues, Brew and Q - for the 21st anniversary of Marketplace."

And according to Katie Miller, "It's gonna be a lot of fun! Great food, awesome auction items and great entertainment as well." From music by Shane Bridges to auction items like great trips and a Big Green Egg to menu items like barbecue sliders and Sweetwater beer tasting...it's gonna be a big night!

Visit www.jlmacon.org or call (478) 743-0847 for tickets.

Now, on Saturday, how about a little music, a little art in your life?

"October 17th, here on Riverdale Drive," says the Jazz Association of Macon's Dr. Edward Clark, "we've got the 6th Annual Arts on Riverdale which is a music festival including jazz and arts."

Over 30 artists and 4 bands take over Riverdale Drive, including featured artist Jason Marsalis. Also on the line-up - Latin Spice, Anton Hughes and the JAM Ensemble.

This family-friendly events also boasts many activities for the kids. The fun starts at noon and you can stay and play until 6:00 p.m. Call (478) 633-7372 for more information.

Speaking of art, the Macon Arts Gallery is rockin' some pretty snazzy creations right now, including the abstract works of local artist Marthalyn Fortson. We caught up with Ms. Fortson to find out what her new works are all about. "It's my concept of life and just the light that flows through everything in life. I'm not accustomed to this. I usually do landscapes or portraitures. This was a branching out for me...and I'm really excited about the way it came together."

From Fortson's inspiring paintings to fascinating ceramic sculptures by Crisha Yantis...stop by the gallery and check out the latest. Visit www.maconarts.org for more information.

More music? Anyone? Well get ready, because this next music event is huge!

"It doesn't matter what denomination you are - none of that matters. Saturday night, we're all gonna gather here in celebration!" Joe Barbee, of Point Ministries out of Bonaire, extends an invitation to the entire Central Georgia community to come and witness an evening of incredible music.

Saturday night the Homer J. Walker Civic Center in Warner Robins will be the scene of Praise Fest '09! Local Christian rock band Moment Later will be in the house as well as national groups This Fire's Embrace, Nineball and Burning Yesterday. Get ready people, because Joe says, "They're gonna experience a full-on rock show! It's Christian music, but it's a rock show. It's gonna be an opportunity for not only the youth to come, but young adults and even parents like myself who can come with their kids and have a good time in a safe environment."

For $5.00 advance tickets call (478) 978-3428. Tickets will also be available at the door for $8.00. And check this out - to enter a raffle drawing (1st prize is an acoustic guitar signed by all the bands; 2nd prize is a drum head signed by the bands; 3rd prize is autographed CD) bring two canned food/non-perishable food items.

To wrap the weekend, we've got some exciting news. Leadership Macon Class of 2009 is hosting a Celebrity Grand Slam softball game this Saturday, 6:30 p.m., at Mercer University's Sikes Field.

Now get this - Frank Malloy and Tyler Pearson will be part of the team taking on the young ladies of the Warner Robins American Little League Softball World Series Championship Team. That celebrity team is going to need all the support it can muster, so come on out and cheer them on! Proceeds from the event benefit the Central Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Visit www.macongrandslam.com for all your game info.

And that's all, folks! Have an awesome weekend! For a look at all of these events, check out Ben's preview in the video to the right...