Four Baldwin Schools win free concerts in “STOP the BULLying” music-video competition

Baldwin County students in two middle schools and two high schools will enjoy free concerts this week by country music singer-songwriter Matt Kennon and inspirational speaker Troy McClain. The winning videos from Daphne Middle School, Fairhope High School, Spanish Fort High School and Summerdale School may be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/mybaldwinvideo.

The competition is part of a STOP the BULLying outreach program designed to change the culture of acceptance and show that bullying must not be tolerated. The Baldwin County program is funded by the Cox Family Foundation and co-sponsored by the Baldwin County District Attorney, Mayors Association, County Commission and Board of Education.

Hundreds of students competed for the concerts, producing and starring in a total of 71 videos submitted for the contest, an unprecedented turnout for the national program. The videos were set to the music of Matt Kennon’s song, “You Had to Pick on Me.”

“I am so proud of all the hard work and creativity that our students put into this project,” District Attorney Hallie Dixon said. “Every video was so much more impressive than I even imagined -- they were all winners. I am truly impressed with their understanding of the issue, touched by the students' empathy that was reflected and so grateful that I get to be part of this movement."

The four school concerts will take place the mornings and afternoons of Thursday, March 14, and Friday, March 15.

 “Our young people continually amaze me,” said Superintendent Alan Lee. “Yes, by their talent, but more so for their concern for one another and for their campuses. School pride and concern for one another are alive and well in Baldwin County, and I'm blown away that so many students stepped forward in an outstanding display of talent to say we won't tolerate violence in any form on our school campuses, that we care for and respect each other. “

A special community concert for the public will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 14, at the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale. The concert is free, but seating is limited, so tickets will be required for entry. Tickets are available to pick up at all four Baldwin County Commission offices in Bay Minette, Fairhope, Foley and Robertsdale, through each school’s Peer Helper program, or you may also e-mail BaldwinDA@baldwincountyal.gov for more information.

“To really change the climate of acceptance, to make it un-cool for students to bully and to get parents and community members on board, it will take a long-term, coordinated effort of like-minded partners to execute an effective outreach and education program,” Dixon said. “Our office is committed to using the videos produced in the competition – not just the winners – to provide that all-important student ‘voice’ on the subject.”