Dixie Darlings Baton

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History

The Decatur Dixie Darlings were formed in 1973 when parents saw a need for baton instructions for their daughters. They asked Vicki Linley to coordinate the program. With an enrollment of 10 girls (all under the age of 10), Vicki began the first class at Austinville Playground. In 1984, the baton twirlers performed before President Ronald Reagan during his visit to Decatur for the Spirit of America Festival.

  

Today, the classes are conducted at TC Almon Recreation Center. Participants range in age from kindergarten through high school with an average enrollment of 35. Registration and classes are concurrent with the school calendar year, with no classes conducted during the month of December. Classes are held each Thursday with Beginners starting at 4:00 pm and Intermediate 1 & 2 at 4:30 pm. The Twirlers march in the Decatur Christmas Parade and conclude the year with a recital.