Better late than never, right? I received these great photos from the folks at Westchester Elementary a couple of weeks back – after their May 6th fundraising event at Avondale Town Cinema.

In front of a sold-out audience, a celebrity judging panel – which included Superintendent Dude, Sydney Rhame, Shawn Mullins, Michelle Malone and Mark Trojanowski – awarded local band, The Dammages, with the win and a stunning “Golden Wolverine” Trophy. (See photo of said trophy after the jump)
According to the release, money raised by the event “will go towards the purchase of computers and other technology resources for the school, as well as for teacher grants and playground enhancements.”

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The Westchester PTA sent out this exciting announcement this morning…

The Voice contestant and Decatur High School student Sydney Rhame gave a surprise performance this morning for students at Westchester Elementary School to help announce the school’s “Battle of the (Dad) Bands” fundraiser, to be held Friday, May 6, 2016, at the historic Avondale Theatre in Avondale Estates.

Rhame will be part of a celebrity judging panel for the event, alongside Dr. David Dude, City Schools of Decatur Superintendent; Mark Trojanowski, drummer for Sister Hazel; Michelle Malone, singer-songwriter, musician, record producer; Trish Land, performer, designer, artist; and Shawn Mullins, singer-songwriter, musician. Award winning DJ and radio celebrity Yvonne Monet will serve as the event’s emcee.

“Battle of the (Dad) Bands” marks Westchester’s second community-wide fundraiser since reopening in 2014. Its first benefit headlined Ramblin’ & Rollin’: An Evening of Songs & Stories with Chuck Leavell. This year’s lineup includes four bands based in Decatur, whose members have children in City Schools of Decatur. The bands include The Dammages, The Benders, Flock of Eagles, and Spackle.

“Hot dads who sing, a great community school, AND snarky celebrity judges … I’m all in!” says Monet.

Westchester Principal Rochelle Lofstrand says the money raised will go towards the purchase of computers and other technology resources for the school, teacher grants, and playground enhancements.

“Following in the tradition we established last year, this event promises great music for a great cause,” says Lofstrand. “We’re so appreciative to the entire Decatur community for supporting Westchester in such amazing ways. May the best band win!”

Tickets are available for purchase for $40 at:

http://www.westchesterpta.org/battle-of-the-bands.html