Echols Marks Donation to Lawrence County: In a heartfelt tribute to his hometown and community, Marcus Echols, the driving force behind the Ben Echols Blues Music Festival, chose to mark his birthday on November 17th with a generous donation to the Lawrence County Career Technical Center (LCCTC) in Moulton. This noteworthy contribution is another step in Echols’ ongoing mission to bolster local educational initiatives.
Echols, a well-respected figure in the community, has long been a champion of educational progress, particularly in the realms of robotics and nursing. The donation, derived from the proceeds of this year’s Ben Echols Blues Music Festival, is designated to establish scholarships and enhance resources for students in these vital disciplines.
Sharing a personal connection, Echols revealed, “I had an aunt who went back to school in her 50s, and went on to be a nurse. She graduated from Moulton. She was made fun of for going back at her age, but thats why we have so many doctors and nurses in our family now.”
The festival, originally conceived to honor the legacy of Ben Echols, a revered brick mason responsible for constructing numerous historic buildings in Moultons downtown square, not only celebrated blues music and cultural heritage but also garnered acclaim for its commitment to nurturing local talent and educational advancement.
Beyond its stellar musical lineup headlined by blues artist LJ Echols, the festival featured noteworthy performers like Dorothy Cole, a Tina Turner impersonator, and engaging activities such as a motorcycle show. These elements showcased the community’s shared enthusiasm for both music and history.
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Pam Crumpton from LCCTC expressed profound gratitude for the donation, acknowledging its potential to significantly impact the lives of students aspiring to careers in healthcare, electronics, and robotics. She remarked, “Were so thankful for the donation, and it means so much to usand it was Marcuss birthday, so it was a really special day for us to have him here.”
As preparations for next years festival are already in progress, Marcus Echols’ unwavering commitment to his community ensures that the legacy of Ben Echols thrives through the opportunities provided to the next generation.