Amber English grew up with Deep Roots and has volunteered with the city’s premier music and arts festival for more than a decade.
“To me, Deep Roots means the one day of the year that Milledgeville- Baldwin County can shine and show how much we love our city and our town,” English said.
During Deep Roots 21st festival on Oct. 19, English was overseeing the merchandise stand and sponsorships. English, who works downtown at Century Bank and Trust, said she has always tried to be involved in her community and understands the significance of a festival like Deep Roots, which she remembers as the Sweetwater Festival when she was younger.
The merchandise stand featured specially designed shirts that English had a hand in creating, along with new stickers and merchandise from the local bands performing. English also helped throughout the day giving change to the local restaurants or food trucks, if needed.
“We're all from different businesses in Milledgeville, and we all bring something different to the table. We could not be as successful as we are without every person. We work great as a team,” English said.
Over the years, English has volunteered at Deep Roots doing everything from selling merchandise to volunteering at the gates to handle admission money.
“I was working at one of the local downtown businesses, and they asked for volunteers. Of course, I wanted to give back to my community that I live in and started there, and I've just worked my way up to being on the committee,” English said.
In the 21 years that Deep Roots has been a part of Milledgeville it has never been canceled apart from Covid-19. English said that the event is always changing with times and this year is no different.
“As far as music goes, it's all local and regional artists playing. We don't have a huge headliner this year, which I think is making everyone excited to come see their favorite local band play downtown. We still have the state cook-off. The food vendors are also local and regional,” English said.
English hopes Deep Roots continues to grow with the community, and that it will always be something that boosts local spirits.
“I hope that we continue to come together as a community. There's a lot of horrible stuff going on right now. Remember to be nice to each other and give each other grace,” said English.