Though the event was only promoted on Facebook and in the local papers, response to the upcoming Heat Homecoming 2015 has been so good, changes have had to be made to the location of events.
On Saturday, Oct. 10, "In the Heat of the Night" fans will be coming to get a chance to see, photograph and get autographs from cast members Alan Autry, who played Capt. Bubba Skinner; Dee Shaw, who played Sgt. Dee Shepard; Maureen Dowdell, Nurse Tracy Boggs; Randall Franks, Officer Randy Goode; and Afemi Omilami, Jimmy Dawes.
The day starts with a meet and greet. Originally slated to be held from 9 a.m-noon in the Historic County Courthouse, it has become a Star Panel and will be held in the Covington Square Park across the street from 8-10 a.m. The courthouse will be open for tours during that period.
Committed to making time for as many fans as possible to get autographs and photos with the stars of the show attending, the Newton-Covington Chamber of Commerce Department of Tourism made arrangements to hold three sessions at the Old Belk Building on the Square at 1150 Monticello Street.
A request went on Facebook from Jenny McDonald, Director of Tourism, asking people to sign up for free tickets to the photo and autograph sessions, primarily, she said, to get an idea of how many people will be coming. According to the Heat Facebook page, 648 people have responded that they are coming, many bringing others, with 99 saying “maybe.”
The first photo and autograph sessions will be held 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; the second from 1-3 p.m.; and the third from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
In the meantime, participating restaurants are offering special discounts for the Heat Homecoming 2015, including Mystic Grill, which is also offering a special “Heat” menu.
The Heat Homecoming event culminates with a concert in the park by Drive Time, featuring songs from the show, from 7-8:30 p.m., followed by a special closing from 8:30-9 p.m.
For more information, visit the Heat Homecoming Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/events/1238759426162850/
