Story & Photography by Woody Woodard

The 25th Annual Blue Suede Dinner & Auction, with the theme of “Don’t Stop Believin,” was held at the Carl Perkins Civic Center. The Musical entertainment was provided by “Resurrection: A Journey Tribute.” In the backstage area was a 40-foot-tall mural dedicated to the memory of Carl Perkins. Carl was the catalyst whose vision of a Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse has grown to an outreach of surrounding counties near Madison County. This year a fund goal target of $350,000 is needed to provide the protection and counseling for the children.

Part of the fundraising is auction items. A one-of-a-kind item was a framed original vinyl record and album cover autographed by Carl Perkins in 1994. It was a major surprise! The Carl Perkins Child Abuse Center and the Exchange Club have 150 members supporting the continuation of the vision. For more information on becoming a member of this organization visit
www.jacksonexchangeclub.com