Freedom Festival is September 9
“United We Stand: Local Voices for Public Lands“ is the theme of this year’s San Juan County Freedom Fest being held Sept. 9 at the San Juan High School (Blanding, Utah) football practice field. Chairwoman, Kim Henderson, emphasized, “No matter what side of land issues you are on, or what side of the mountain you are from, we want everyone to come and unitedly enjoy an evening of great entertainment and sociability. We hope to have people from other counties, and even states, come and join us.”
The event begins 4 PM and offers a full slate of entertainment, food and craft booths, concessions, and 10 great raffle prizes. Local performers include Native American dancers, The Magpies, and Magnetic Pull, the best in Native Rock from Blanding, Utah. The group includes Dennis Kaniatobe Sr. on keyboard, lead guitar and vocals; Travis Moses -percussion and Native Flute, and Dennis Kaniatobe II, Lead and Bass guitar. Darren Parry of the NW Shoshone tribe, will be a guest speaker.
The main performance begins about 8 PM featuring Tim Gates, lead singer in a Nashville trio called Due West. Gates is also a member of the Nashville Tribute Band, which has performed in San Juan County several times. Attendees need to bring their own chairs or blankets.
Anyone interested in setting up artisan, food, or product booths should call Nicole Perkins before August 21. 435-485-0214. There is a $25 charge; however, two concert tickets will be provided to each booth.
Freedom Fest Writing Contest
In preparation for Freedom Fest students in grades 3-8 are encouraged to enter the Unity writing contest. There are two different brackets: grades 3-5, and grades 6-8. The essays will be judged on development of the theme, “United We Stand.” Entries are due by 11:59 AM, August 31. There will be three winners in each division. Winners will be announced the night of Freedom Fest, and first place winners will be invited to read their essays. Students do NOT have to live in San Juan County to participate.
If you have questions regarding the contest call Alex Winder at 435-459-2870.