FLORENCE– The June First Fridays, which is set for 5-8 p.m. Friday in downtown Florence, will feature a new feature on the event’s main stage.
In addition to music, local artist Sergio Portillo will be speed painting. He’ll be using a local image, and, in just 30 minutes, Portillo will depict on canvas a completed painting.
“It’s an exciting way to incorporate art into First Fridays,” said First Fridays Committee Chairwoman Lexi Sandlin. “First Fridays began as a way to feature our local artists, and this builds some excitement into a process that many people never get to see first-hand.”
Portillo will be on stage from 6:45-7:15 p.m. Local musicians Krista Scott and The Valley Roots will also be on the Big River Broadcasting 
stage, Scott from 6-6:45 p.m. and The Valley Roots from 7:15-8:45 p.m. The North Alabama Twirlers will also be making an appearance at First Fridays from 5-5:30 p.m.
In June, First Fridays will take place on Thursday, July 3, to allow residents to participate in July 4 events. The Stars and Stripes Strut as well as a Classic Car Cruise-In are planned for the July 3 event in downtown Florence.
More than 70 vendors have been approved for participation in First Fridays in April. Among the artisans and crafters are those who make jewelry, soap, and clothing, as well as woodworkers and candlemakers.
First Fridays, which is sponsored by Listerhill Credit Union, is a committee of Downtown Florence Unlimited and takes place the first Friday of every month during March through December. Big River Broadcasting sponsors the music stage.
MEDIA RELEASE/Michelle Rupe Eubanks at 256-386-1808
