Talent, hobbies in focus at Madison Street Festival’s Community Showcase

MADISON – A potpourri of interests in geo-sciences, along with performing and martial artists, will assemble for the Community Showcase at 2018 Madison Street Festival.

The community’s largest civic event, Madison Street Festival occurs annually, rain or shine, downtown on the first Saturday in October.

“We’re very excited about this year’s Community Showcase exhibitors who represent land, sea, air and space,” coordinator Shrail Heinrich said. “You’ll find them on Front Street flanking both sides of Madison Gazebo with a small stage and an exhibit area.”

Madison City Community Orchestra will show its diversity with pop music and maybe a taste of classical. A group of folk singers will harmonize.

An annual favorite, Madison Senior Center’s Dance Team will delight the audience. The roster also includes Southern Sensations Dance Studio, Every Body Dance Crew and Rhythms of Grace Dance Academy.

Everyone will keep time to rhythms of Stickmasters from Huntsville Drumline. Fantasy Playhouse cast members will present scenes from their productions.

Students of Okinawan Karate Center and Jeong’s Young-In Martial Arts will show their defense skills and feats of strength. Rocket City Twirlers will entertain with dance moves and baton routines.

“Huntsville Cave Rescue Unit will have several cool activities for guests,” Heinrich said. “You’ll get a first-hand look at how they transport a stranded/wounded person from a cave.”

Huntsville Gem & Mineral Society will present “The Amazing Wonders from the Earth,” a selection of minerals and fossils. Members will answer questions about the minerals’ formation, origin and composition.

Society members will show tools in lapidary to convert rough minerals into polished specimens. They will explain programs for the budding ‘Rockhound,’ from digging rock to finished jewelry. Pebble Pups children’s program will assist with tending the booth to offer their experiences with other children and adults.

“If you think telescopes are only for night, think again,” Heinrich said. “Von Braun Astronomical Society will have solar telescopes on-site. Step up and see the sun up-close.”

Wheeler Wildlife Refuge will host fun, interactive identification stations, which may stump viewers.

“Have you ever wondered how hail becomes baseball size? Or how weathermen track a hurricane’s path? National Weather Service will explain the answers,” Heinrich said.