Published: September 01, 2009 01:07 pm      

FAIR PARK: Pioneer Day is coming!

What makes for a terrific family outing? It’s a place that has something for everyone — from the youngsters to the not-so-youngsters. Pioneer Day on the Mountain Heritage and Music Festival at the Cumberland County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept. 20, does just that.

Because it’s the longest running festival in Cumberland County (now in its 25th year), experience has taught the Pioneer Day crew what festival goers really like. This year’s mix of heritage demonstrators, non-stop entertainment, traditional crafters, and mouth-watering foods promises to be one of the finest. Youngsters will have a blast with the “make-it-and-take-it” crafts, free train and wagon rides and other special activities planned just for them. Rising stars can shine in the amateur talent contest and Music Fest competitions.

This year promises to be even more exciting with several show-stopping events. Coming to Pioneer Day this year is international American Indian performing artist Winddancer, who will share with his audiences “The Mystic Warrior.” This performance will take you on a journal into his original songs “Canyon Flight” and “Dragonfly Medicine.” Winddancer will also perform an authentic traditional dance in his segment “The Way of the Warrior.” As a special feature, Winddancer will bring his war pony, Amunet, dressed for battle. Don’t miss this rare photo opportunity for the whole family.

Pioneer Day will also be hosting Indie artist, producer, singer, and songwriter Davey T. Hamilton. He has updated country while keeping the music's original soul intact and has shared the stage with many great artists including Vince Gill, Big and Rich, Steve Wariner, Amy Grant, Trent Tomlinson, Porter Wagoner, Jack Greene, Marty Stuart, Little Jimmy Dickens, Chris Gantry, Mac Gaydon, Trailor Park Choir, and many more. His progressive musical style is often considered a blend of Southern rock, country, bluegrass, and pop. His unique sound places him in a new generation of modern country music. A multi-instrumentalist, Hamilton can play electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, banjo, piano, keyboards, harmonica, mandolin, and drums. He is also a highly skilled recording engineer/record producer and produces his own recordings.

Set aside Saturday, Sept. 20, as a “family day” at your house. Gates open at 9 a.m., so come make some memories at Pioneer Day.

For more information call Fair Park at 484-7416 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. 

September promises to be a great month at Fair Park to take part in programs that will improve your health and lifestyle — stay tuned! And to keep informed about Fair Park’s activities and to learn about its corporate partnerships, you can visit the center Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also visit the center’s Web site at www.fairparkseniorcenter.org to keep up-to-date on the latest programs and activities that are being offered as well as online versions of the center’s monthly newsletter “Newsline.” Take advantage of the resources that Fair Park offers — get involved, and become part of the fun!

NOTE: Basic I and II Computer Classes are ongoing — call for more information and to sign up for classes!

Wednesday, Sept. 2

•10 a.m. — Beginning electric guitar with Tom Fincher.

•11 a.m. — Intermediate electric guitar with Tom Fincher.

•12:30 p.m. — Creative Quilters.

•1 p.m. — Guitar forum.

•1 p.m. — Cribbage with Andy Bertolino.

Thursday, Sept. 3

•9 a.m. — SilverSneakers® Muscular Strength & Range of Movement.

•10 a.m. — Table tennis.

•12:30 p.m. — Bridge Bunch.

•1 p.m. — Ceramics with Eileen O'Barsky.

•1 p.m. — Euchre with Tommy Cole.

•2 p.m. — Senior chess club — open play, everyone welcome.

•4 p.m. — Healthy Eating Class — $10 per person per class. Call to reserve your spot.

•6:30 p.m. — Line dancing.

Friday, Sept. 4

•10 a.m. — Birthday, anniversary and newcomer celebration.

•10:30 a.m. — Eye Centers of Tennessee bingo.

•10:30 a.m. — Darts with Chuck Toodle.

•12:30 p.m. — Bridge class.

Monday, Sept. 7

Closed for Labor Day holiday.

Tuesday, Sept. 8

•9 a.m. — SilverSneakers® Muscular Strength and Range of Movement.

•10 a.m. — ER4YT with Larry Nesbit.

•10 a.m. — Advanced Tai Chi with Diane Parvin.

•11 a.m. — Beginner Tai Chi with Angie Bedard.

•1 p.m. — Chair stretches with Glenna King.

•2 p.m. — Origami with Marge Hofknecht.