The April 1865 Society, Inc. is having the annual Battle of Selma re-enactment to once again make history come alive on April 20-23, 2017, on the banks of the Alabama River.

And there to make it happen is Candace Johnson Skelton, who will coordinate all aspects of this year’s event.

Skelton has been working in some capacity with the Battle of Selma since she was Selma’s Tourism Director, then as a volunteer and now as a board member of the April 1865 Society, Inc.

She currently focuses on tourism as an element of economic development throughout Alabama by assisting communities in reaching their goals through strategic planning, with emphasis on tourism development.

With more than 13 years of experience in public relations and marketing, 11 of which have focused on the tourism industry, Skelton is excited to be able to enhance local economic development via tourism throughout Alabama.

Being a native of Selma, she brings a rich background of the area and knows the importance that events like the Battle of Selma serve in communities.

“I am looking forward to working with city leaders and community organizations as we plan the 2017 event. I hope to assure the continuation of the event for years to come and focus on making the event one that truly impacts the economy in Selma and the surrounding areas,” Skelton said. “We are excited to be expanding the educational portion of the four-day event to include a field trip package that will include Civil War to Civil Rights history, as well as bringing back the Ladies Tea allowing visitors to discover Selma history in the largest contiguous historic district in the state.”

Landon L. Nichols, destination and marketing coordinator for the Selma and Dallas County Chamber of Commerce said he is looking forward to the events and working alongside Skelton to help promote tourism in Selma and Dallas County.

“Visitors spent over $81 million in Dallas County last year alone,” Nichols said.

“Annual events are a critical component of our local Tourism economy. Dollars spent by our guests yield positive dividends that linger long after crowds have returned home. Visitors spend big bucks on lodging, meals, fuel and in our local retail establishments. These outside dollars are a welcome infusion to the Blackbelt economy.”

President of The April 1865 Society, Inc. James Hammonds said he is excited to have Skelton working to make the Battle of Selma the best it can be.

“We are very excited to have Candace in the chairman’s role this year. She one of the most hard working and dedicated young advocates for our town,” Hammonds said.