Rotarians prepare for Parrots of the Caribbean

MADISON – The tropical breezes and Parrotheads will roll in again to Madison on Aug. 25. 

Rotary Club of Madison will host its sixteenth annual Parrots of the Caribbean at Insanity Complex, 100 Skate Park Drive in Madison on Aug. 25 from 6 to 11 p.m. Billed as ‘Madison Premier Beach Party,’ Parrots is an evening community celebration of live music, food, outdoor activities and libations.

“Once again, Parrotheads and music lovers are invited to don their grass skirts, Hawaiian shirts and island wear to enjoy dancing, dining and drinks in a fabulous island theme,” publicity chairperson Mike Keenan said.

This celebration has grown from a small gathering of Madison Rotarians “to a spectacular event attended by over 700 guests from all over the Southeast,” Keenan said.

Calypso Vision and Juice will return as entertainers for Parrots. “Calypso Vision, a good ol’ rock-n-roll band with an island theme, will get you started dreamin’ of good times and riches, as well as boats, bars and beaches,” Keenan said.

Juice, the featured musical guest, “will energize the evening with R&B, funk, party and dance mix that is sure to get you moving. Come and sit back, relax and enjoy the show or dance the night away. Fins Up, Madison!” he said.

This year, admission will include food. Rotarians will fire up the grills once again to provide delicious meal options to satisfy everyone’s appetites. Soft drinks, domestic and craft beers, wine and spirits will be sold. Guests can bid on raffle baskets to support the benefit event.

Advance tickets are $25 or pay $30 at the event (meal included). All guests must be at least 21 years old with a valid ID. Coolers, pets and outside food and drink are not permitted. This event will be held, rain or shine.

Rotary Club of Madison, an award-winning community leader, supports local service and vocational projects and international interests. The club will re-invest Parrot proceeds into Madison with signature projects.

“This year’s event will likely provide funding an exciting new Downtown City Park, complete with pavilion and amphitheater,” Keenan said. Rotarians will use 2017 proceeds to build a Children’s Garden at Madison Public Library. In previous years, Parrots has supported Madison Hospital, Hogan Family YMCA and other ventures. (madisonalrotary.org/avenues-of-service)

Rotary Club of Madison, part of an organization of businesses and professional leaders, provides humanitarian service and helps to build goodwill and peace in the world. The 1.2-million Rotarians in 34,000 clubs live in 200-plus countries and geographical areas.

For information, call 256-564-2075, email madisonrotary@gmail.com and visit madisonalrotary.org/parrots or Facebook.