While the rainy weather earlier this week hampered many of the Department of Leisure Services' usual spring activities -- preparing and maintaining ball fields, groundskeeping and other outdoor activities, it has enabled them to get a jump start on this weekend's Spring Fling. The second annual festival, which begins with the Homespun Country Hoedown this morning, is a two-day event at the Andalusia Sports Complex and Kiwanis Community Center involving many organizations -- and organizational headaches for coordinators Dwight Mikel and Dianne Jones.

"We have the organizational skills, but we don't have all the contacts we need," said Mikel, who has been more than happy to rely on other groups, like the Visual Arts League of Andalusia (VALA) for those very contacts. "We could beat ourselves to death doing this, but its better to let others with that expertise do that part."

Among the many chores he's had to face this year has been arranging the entertainment for the Spring Fling, and several acts have been lined up. The lineup, beginning with the Homespun Country Hoedown today, include:

Friday: 9 to 9:30 a.m.-- gospel singing with the Merry Melodies.

10:15 a.m. noon -- Ron Taylor and the Country Brand

1 to 2

p.m. -- Elvis impersonator Bill Brooks

6 to 8 p.m. -- Just in Tyme – (county, with some pop and contemporary numbers included.)

8:30 p.m. -- Issues band – contemporary with some classic rock numbers.

On Saturday, the lineup includes:

9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Andalusia High School Chorus

3 to 4 p.m. Elvis impersonator Bill Brooks

Music won't be the only entertainment offered during the two days. On both Friday and Saturday, DJ music will be played. On Saturday, Andalusia ballet will perform from 11 a.m. to noon and strolling magician Gary Ledbetter of Montgomery will entertain the crowds throughout the day. The Struts, baton twirlers, will add their own sparkle to the afternoon festivities at 5:30 p.m.

Events taking place before 3 p.m. each day are free to the public. An admission armband can be purchased for $3 that will apply for both days of the event.