Working to put a town in the mainstream again is a tough bill to fill, but one that citizens and leaders alike in McKenzie share as a common goal.

With this goal in mind, they have decided to draw people back to the community by throwing an evening-long gala event on Saturday, June 30.

"We have many wonderful people here in McKenzie, and they love their community, and wish to see it thrive again," said Mayor Betty Stinson. "I couldn't think of another place I would rather live."

At the last town council meeting, McKenzie's leaders decided to follow through with a request that has become the talk of the town of late n "Let's have a street dance."

May Thornton, owner of L & M Exxon in McKenzie, has taken on the task of spearheading the event.

"The event, led off by a dedication ceremony for the McKenzie War Veterans' Memorial being erected in front of McKenzie Town Hall, will open with singing by Starla Jones," said Thornton. "There are also several local and church Gospel groups slated to sing."

Thornton and McKenzie Town Clerk Tina Pate have been steadily contacting people, groups and area vendors, to coordinate the event.

"We have already received a commitment from Flowers Bakeries and Colonial Bread," Thornton said.

"Also, the Masonic Lodge from Garland will be selling barbecue sandwiches and soft drinks," he added.

Thornton said the McKenzie School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) would also have a booth set up, making and selling Snow Cones.

"We are so excited about the event," said Pate. "Everyone is looking forward to the day."

Pate and Thornton said they have received confirmation from a familiar area couple for the entertainment of the night's event also.

"Tommy and Kay Hall, with Night Moves' will be performing at the street dance, scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m.," Pate said.

Many people may recall the Halls from their band Hy-Times' a familiar favorite at the Davis Club, operated for many years by the late Arnold Davis.

"It would be so wonderful if we could see the streets full of people having a good time," Thornton said.

"We will have the road closed to traffic from beyond the driveway of L & M Exxon to the McKenzie Bank (Majors Street to South Garland Road)," Thornton said.

"Folks should come early and plan on staying late n the ceremony will start at 4 p.m., and we have scheduled the street dance with an open-ended time frame n it will start at 8 p.m. and last until."

"We would like to ask everyone to bring their whole families, and their lawn chairs too," said Pate.

For more information, call McKenzie Town Hall at (334) 374-2311 or L & M Exxon at (334) 374-2226.