Page 37 - Abilene Living

We're just speculating at this point but those are the kinds of people we'd like to see in the future.”

The large stage sat in a feld behind Joe Allen’s Lytle Bend Ranch Pavilion and was flled with a steady rotation of entertainment throughout the day. Bleu Edmondson, Mark Powell & Lariat, Larry Joe Taylor, and Gary P. Nunn were just a few that entertained the fans during the day. A colorful sunset lit up the sky and kicked off the night line-up featuring David Allan Coe, Stoney LaRue, and Johnny Bush.

Organizers of the event, Mark Powell and Kevin Darby, stated early on that the festival was formed to serve a dual purpose. Initially it was branded as an annual celebration of Texas Independence Day, which is March 2. It also had a bonus beneft; to provide fundraising for a local

This annual event serves as a dual purpose to celebrate Texas

Independence Day, it also provides fundraising for a local non profit that celebrates independence every day.

THIS PAGE The program offers a chance for participants to live and work alongside others with disabilities and many have even taken what they have learned out into the workforce at places like Goodwill and the Christian Service Center.