Though the Jimmie Rodgers Festival drew contest hopefuls from all over, Demopolis was well represented in taking home two of the top awards.

Demopolis residents Camilla Tutt and Amy Potter took home more than trophies at this past Saturday’s event in first place adult country and adult gospel, respectively, they also took home a memorable experience.

“We got to meet Rodney Atkins, he was very nice and down to Earth,” Tutt, 14, said.

Tutt was able to hand Atkins a press kit of hers, including her very own “Big Time in a Little Town” CD.

The title track was the song that lead her to her first place title.

In addition, to the trophies and the meet and greet, Potter and Tutt both walked away with brand new electric guitars.

The guitars were signed by several big names in country music. Both singers said they enjoy the guitar.

“I have been learning the acoustic guitar, but now I have an electric one to learn,” Tutt said.

Potter also said she enjoys the guitar and plays a little.

Amy Potter and Camilla’s connection delves deeper than sharing their love for singing, they also both attend First United Methodist Church in Demopolis.

Potter sang, “Remember Me” for the festival competition and won the adult gospel category.

She said also competing for her first time was her daughter Sarah Kate Potter in the youth country division.

Potter said she is looking forward to performing at the Fourth of July events with her other bandmates of the local group, Heart Attack.

Camilla’s next performances will include her singing The National Anthem at two upcoming Biscuits baseball games.

“I think Demopolis has a lot of talented people and I think it was great we were able to represent Demopolis out of that many people,” Potter said. “Even the announcer, when he called me and Camilla’s name, said ‘Wow, Demopolis, Alabama is being well represented.”