Local Legends to take over center stage

NEVADA, Mo. -- An annual Bushwhacker Days event that has become a favorite of old and young alike, Local Legends night, will be held this year on Thursday, June 14. This fourhour showcase of local talent began in 2005 as part of Nevada and Vernon County's Sesquicentennial celebration and has developed into a highlight of the Bushwhacker Days celebration.

This year, 24 acts have volunteered their time and talent for the enjoyment of an always receptive crowd which will gather on the historic Nevada Square. The entertainers will perform from the main stage, located on Cherry Street south of the Vernon County Courthouse. Lorrie Mallard and Dan Divine are the chairpersons and will serve as announcers for this year's Local Legends night. They are both ecstatic about the variety and quality of entertainers scheduled for the event.

Each of the acts that will be performing has a Vernon County connection. They live here, have lived here, have family here or have another connection that plants their roots in Nevada or Vernon County. Those watching and listening to the local legends should expect all types of music from country to rock, soul to gospel, and blues to instrumental fiddling.

Charlie Johnson, Bushwhacker committee chair, commented, "The talent we have locally is truly amazing. The Local Legends night is a great way to recognize and appreciate our local entertainers." Festivities on Thursday, June 14 will begin at 6 p. m., with the singing of the National Anthem by Elisha Ellis; followed immediately by the soon-to-benamed 2007 Nevada Idol Winner. Others scheduled to perform during the first hour include: Mallori Ast, Nathan Ast, Baby Fingers, Calvary Road, Coleman Musicmakers, Dan Divine and Doghouse Band.

From 7 until 8 p. m., the crowd will be entertained by Doug Earnest, Elisha Ellis, Elly Farmer, Gabby Gire, Grass Brothers, Jenny Herdliska, Madison Johnson and Shanna Johnson. The 8 o'clock hour will see John Kendrick, Nuance, Dave Pickett, Bonnie Radspinner, Marlend Scotten and the Smith Brothers.

Rounding out the show, starting at 9 o'clock, will be Two Lane Highway and Wildflowers. The Local Legends event is expected to conclude at 10 p. m.

Knowing that good music makes the listeners hungry, the Bushwhacker Committee has scheduled the Bushwhacker Barbecue which will begin on the Square at 6 p. m. Meanwhile, Border Wars Tug-of-War is to be held on the Vernon County Courthouse grounds, beginning at 6 p. m. as well.

Whether you're hungry, enjoy great music, or like seeing adults tugging at the end of a rope, grab your lawn chair and a friend and make your way the festivities on Thursday, June 14, as part of Bushwhacker Days 2007.

For additional information on available booth space, get parade entry forms or to volunteer time to make this year's celebration another huge success, contact the Nevada/ Vernon County Chamber of Commerce office at (417) 667- 5300.