Mel Tillis to Host 2nd Annual "Fishing with Mel" Fishing Tournament and Concert in Steinhatchee, April 12, 2008.

Steinhatchee, FL - It all began with legendary country music star and entertainer Mel Tillis reading a small ad in a fishing magazine looking for a great place to go fishing. And as a result, the small fishing community of Steinhatchee and the Big Bend area of Florida may never be the same. But one thing is for sure, many kids in need have received help and are about to get it again as Mel Tillis and Friends look forward to the second "Mel TIllis and Friends Fishing Tournament."

Mel Tillis, the king of country music and comedy, has once again partnered with the Steinhatchee River Development Corporation to host the "Mel Tillis and Friends Fishing Tournament" at Gulfstream Marina in Steinhatchee, FL, that will surely rival the event from last year.

What an event that is going to be. "Mel has invited other major country stars along with sports figures and actors" says Susan Parker, Tournament Coordinator. "Mel tries to fish out of Gulfstream Marina often, and the community is excited about hosting the event again this year." "This year we are adding some additional fundraising events to help raise more money for the Children," explained Sheila Greene, Co-Tournament Coordinator. "We are raffling a 2007 Triton Boat with a 50hp Mercury Motor and Road King Galvanized Trailer courtesy of Millers Boating Center of Ocala. Tickets are available for a $10 donation. New this year will be a sponsorship program guide available free to all who attend the event; for advertising call me at 352-256-4697," stated Sheila excitedly.

Contestants can pre-registration by mail or on-site registration begins at 3PM on Friday, April 11, 2008 at the Gulfstream Marina followed by the Mel Tillis and Friends Captain's Meeting and "Docktail Party" that will begin at 6PM. Live entertainment will begin at 8PM featuring Kenyon Lockry. This will kick off the silent auction that will continue on through 6PM Saturday, April 12, 2008.

The fishing tournament will begin at safelight to 4PM on Saturday, April 12, 2008 followed by the Mel Tillis and Friends Concert at 8PM featuring Mel Tillis and his band the Statesiders. Throughout the day there will be vendors, food and drink. The silent auction winners will be announced starting at 6:30PM. Mel Tillis along with his young friend Phillip will draw the winner of the boat at 10PM.

Ted Ensminger will once again be serving as the tournament director and as guest emcee for the combined inshore and offshore fishing event. "Ted brings with him over 30 years of tournament experience with over 500 events to his credit. We're fortunate to have him and his staff as part of our event again," states Parker.

Event organizers are predicting over 400 anglers will participate in the tournament with as many as 3,000 people participating in the entire weekend. "It's sure to be a fantastic event," continues Parker, "Mel has invited his friends; there is no telling who might be here. Fasten your seat belts; this has the potential to be one heck of a weekend."

"It's gonna be a great weekend, loads of fun, but I don't want anybody to forget the real reason we're doing all of this, and that of course, is to raise money to help the kid's," said Greene. "All of the proceeds from this event will go to our friends at the Shriner's Hosptials for Children and a donation to the local Steinhatchee School. Now I gotta ask you, what better reason is there to bring folks together for a great time?" asked Greene.

The entire weekend is a family affair. Admission to the concert is just $20 per adult with kids under 12 getting in free and if you buy in advance you will get VIP seating.

For additional information about the event and for registration and sponsorship information, log on to www.fishingwithmel.com or contact Susan Parker at 352-316-2537 or
Sheila Greene at 352-256-4697.