J.D. Shelburne performing to benefit local Lawrenceburg charities

J.D. Shelburne has been very busy lately, having attended the Kentucky Derby and the Derby Eve festivities this past weekend.  On May 12^th, Shelburne will be returning to Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, for a special concert benefitting God’s Pantry and The Light Center.  Opening for him will be Hannah Blaylock, formerly of Eden’s Edge.  The event is part of the “Nashville on the Green” in downtown Lawrenceburg near the intersection of Main Street and Woodford Street.  The show starts at 7:00 p.m.

There is no admission charge to the concert but fans are encouraged to donate canned goods, which will be divided between two local organizations, God’s Pantry and The Light Center. Donations will earn fans tickets for door prizes to be given throughout the night. Cash donations for the organizations will also be accepted.

J.D. Shelburne, a blue-blooded Kentucky boy who starred in basketball and baseball at Spencer County High School, embarked on his career in music after finding a guitar when cleaning out his late grandmother’s house. He taught himself to play while attending the University of Kentucky, and then moved to Nashville in 2008. He penned the song “Farmboy,” which became a regional hit in 2012. He has opened for over 50 national acts and received recent national attention for the videos of his songs “Hometown” and “Better Man” playing on GAC and CMT.

May 12th promises to be a night to remember in Lawrenceburg. Shelburne hosted a similar event in Taylorsville drawing an estimated 4,000 fans last year and even more are expected in Lawrenceburg.

Stoney Top Burgoo, of Lawrenceburg, plans to be set up to serve burgoo for lunch on concert day.  Pappy’s Porch of Hampshire, Tennessee, also plans to be set up by lunch time. Menu includes pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, 1/3-pound burgers, Nathan’s all-beef hot dogs, nachos, BBQ nachos, fries and the J.D. Dawg (Two hot dogs, chili, nacho cheese, diced onions, crushed nacho chips, and pulled pork BBQ).

The city parking lot on the west side of Western Avenue will be closed all day on Friday, May 12. Onsite parking will be available at First Baptist Church, Lawrenceburg City Hall, City Main Street Parking Lot, City College Street Parking Lot and behind the Anderson County Judge Executive Office. Off-site parking will be available nearby at Anderson County Middle School, Saffell Street School and Anderson County Community Park.

Unbridled Eve Gala announces exclusive celebrity lineup for 2017 Derby Eve event

Named an Official Kentucky Derby Event, the Sixth-Annual Unbridled Eve Gala is an exclusive star-studded gala which draws local and national business leaders, horse racing industry professionals and celebrities from film, television, music, comedy and sports.  It will be held on Friday, May 5th, 2017, at the Galt House Hotel & Suites in Louisville.

From the world-class cocktail reception to dinner, dancing, live musical performances, and a spectacular silent auction, Unbridled Eve offers the best in Southern hospitality, elegance and entertainment.

Scheduled to perform include: Morris Day and the Time, Taio Cruz, The Crashers, John Elefante (former lead singer of band Kansas), Farewell Angelina, and Wally Palmar (The Romantics).

Celebrities scheduled to attend Unbridled Eve Gala include:

Sharon Stone (actress and producer)

Selma Blair (film and television actress)

Mira Sorvino (Oscar-winning actress)

Paul Sorvino (actor, singer, writer)

Christopher Backus (actor)

Beau Bridges (three-time Emmy, two-time Golden Globe and one-time Grammy Award winning actor and director)

Victor Espinoza (2015 Triple Crown winner)

Jean Cruguet  (1977 Triple Crown winner)

Mario Gutierrez (Two-time Kentucky Derby winner, 2017 Derby Mount: Irap)

Mike Smith (Hall of Fame jockey, 2017 Derby Mount: Girvin)

Julien Leparoux (Eclipse Award-winning jockey, 2017 Derby Mount: Classic Empire)

Bob Guiney (actor, singer, talk show host)

Bonnie-Jill Laughlin (sportscaster and scout for Los Angeles Lakers)

Robin Meade (Anchor, HLN Morning Express)

Warren Moon (Hall of Fame NFL Player)

Alex Reymundo (comedian and actor)

Nora Roberts (best-selling author)

J.D. Shelburne (Country Music Singer)

Bob Van Dillen (meteorologist, HLN Morning Express)

Jennifer Westhoven (reporter, HLN)

Bruce Wilder (photographer)

Luke Hancock (former U of L basketball star, NCAA MVP 2013)

Justin Rose (professional golfer, Olympic gold medalist)

Mario Urrutia (former U of L football star and NFL player)

Teddy Abrams (musical director of the Louisville Orchestra)

Mark “OZ” Geist (Benghazi hero, co-author book, 13 Hours)

Ruby Lewis (Cirque du Soleil Paramour star, Kentucky native)

Jennifer Fowler (winner, Amazing Race)

All of this fun ultimately goes to help numerous great causes, including six-time beneficiary, Blessings in a Backpack, an organization that fights childhood hunger by providing needy elementary school students a backpack of food on the weekends. A portion of proceeds will also go to sixteen other non-profit organizations. The Unbridled Charitable Foundation, Inc® and Unbridled Eve® were founded by Tonya York Dees and Tammy York Day.

For more information, be sure to check out www.unbridledeve.com.  Be sure to check out our Facebook and Twitter for exclusive coverage of the event.

Meet Kenny Rogers in Kentucky and benefit CASA of the Bluegrass

Kenny Rogers - Photo by Piper Ferguson

Central Kentucky residents have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to personally meet country music icon and “The Gambler,” Kenny Rogers, when he makes his last stop in Danville at the Norton Center For The Arts on April 8 as part of his final world tour, The Gambler’s Last Deal Tour. In an online silent auction to benefit CASA of the Bluegrass, two exclusive VIP meet-and-greet tickets to meet Rogers backstage before his concert, along with two premium-seating concert tickets, will be up for the highest bidder’s grabs for ten days on eBay.com from January 15 to January 25, 2017.

Donations are tax-deductible, and all proceeds will benefit CASA of the Bluegrass, which serves to advance the best interests of abused and neglected children in the Anderson, Boyle, Franklin, and Mercer County Family Court Systems through the training and support of community volunteers who serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates working with children, the family, and the court. Currently, there is an increased demand for CASA volunteers and training.

“CASA volunteers are flies on the wall during some of the most horrific events in a child’s life, and some of the most wonderful,” said Laura Guerrant, executive director for CASA of the Bluegrass. “It can be emotional at times; it can be draining at times. But the end result of knowing that you helped ensure the child’s safety and permanency… that is exciting. That is the ultimate goal. There’s nothing better than seeing a family reunited or a child adopted,” Guerrant added.

The starting bid for the VIP package is $100, with hopes the charity can raise much more – all of which will go directly to funding the efforts of CASA of the Bluegrass. Interested donors can place their bids by visiting the homepage of casaofthebluegrass.org and clicking the “Kenny Rogers VIP Package Live Auction” button at the top, which will take them directly to the listing at eBay.com. Or they can access the direct eBay link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/-/132065329833. Final payment is processed through PayPal.

Throughout his unprecedented career, Kenny Rogers has sold more than 120 million albums worldwide and is the RIAA’s eighth best-selling male solo artist of all time. The first country artist to consistently sell out arenas, Rogers quickly became a pop superstar as well with smash hits like “Lucille,” “Lady,” “Islands In The Stream,” “You Decorated My Life,” “The Gambler,” and many more.

In 2015, Rogers was named CMT’s Artist Of A Lifetime, a career highlight preceded by his three GRAMMY Awards, 11 People’s Choice Awards, 19 American Music Awards, eight Academy Of Country Music (ACM) Awards and six Country Music Association (CMA) Awards. Last year, he announced his retirement on the Today Show and commenced The Gambler’s Last Deal Tour.

“I’m really looking forward to performing in Kentucky again,” Rogers told The Advocate-Messenger in a recent interview. “I love your part of the country and the people there.”

For more information on the silent auction to benefit CASA of the Bluegrass, visit casaofthebluegrass.org or call Amanda Clark at 502-419-8934.

For more information on Kenny Rogers, visit kennyrogers.com.

Sundy Best to perform show to benefit Johnson County flood victims

Eastern Kentucky natives, Sundy Best, are putting their heart and soul to give back to their local community.  On Wednesday, July 22nd, they will be hosting a benefit concert at Johnson Central High School.  The show will start at 7:00 p.m. est.

Last week, severe weather affected much of Kentucky, with much of it in Johnson County.  Multiple communities were flooded with homes and businesses destroyed.  Unfortunately, there were several deaths reported and some still missing.

Donations are being accepted to help build back the community.  Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky is accepting donations and is working with Sundy Best on the July 22 concert.  Donations can be made by clicking here onto the Foundation's website.  The show will also air on WYMT-TV.

A Place Called Home

When someone asks, "Where are you from?" you often reply with a sense of pride and enthusiasm of your home.  Even when I lived in Lexington and Versailles, I always said, "London is my hometown."

I would also add, "London, as in Kentucky, not England.  We are known for the World Chicken Festival, some of the kindest folks, beautiful outdoors, and some great traditions from Friday night lights of high school football to sitting on the front porch to waving whenever you see someone coming towards you in their vehicle."

Many know about Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and others, but few know about Slaughter, Beauty, Knob Lick, Sandy Hook, or Butcher Holler.  These are the places that Chris Knight, Angaleena Presley, the Kentucky Headhunters, Keith Whitley, Loretta Lynn & Crystal Gayle all call home.

Where you are from defines who you are.  Your attitude, personality, and views of life come from that place in your hear that you call home.  You build up your roots of the road that you will go on a journey in life.  Thus, my new logo contains a tree rooted in southeast part of the state and branching out.  The swirls could easily represent a vinyl record, the spool of tape from a cassette, or a cd....or perhaps that you take a piece of music and curl up next to it as it affects you in some form or another.

So no matter where your road leads, there is always a place to call home.  Now grab a road atlas and see if you can locate those towns I just mentioned of some fine Kentucky country music singers.

Crockettsville Charity Concert & Trail Ride Celebrates Seven Years & Over $725,000 Raised

Personal note: I have attended this wonderful event here in eastern Kentucky several times.  It is a wonderful family friendly event and just an overall good time.  The Buckhorn Children and Family Services Charity are an excellent group that help our youth.  I encourage you to attend if you can. 

Over the past six years, the Crockettsville Charity Concert & Trail Ride has raised over $725,000. The majority of the funds have gone to the Buckhorn Children and Family Services Charity, a private, non-profit organization that provides residential care and treatment of troubled youths and their families on campuses in Eastern Ky. The remaining funds have been allocated to various music scholarships and used to provide instruments to schools in need. Now in its seventh year, the annual event, to be held Sept. 5-7 on Crockettsville's Abner Farm, will feature an all-star concert, with performances by charity founders Chad Warrix and David Tolliver, known as Halfway to Hazard, Chris Young, Bucky Covington and Ray Scott, with more artist announcements coming soon, and a 42-mile ATV trail ride. Storme Warren of GAC’s Headline Country and SIRIUSXM’s The Highway returns as host of the event. Additionally, on Saturday, ticket holders will be treated to exhibitions by the Monster Energy Freestyle Motocross Team and will be given access to a mud bog, food and merchandise vendors, a kids’ area, the silent auction and more. On Friday, Sept. 5, Halfway to Hazard, along with many of the artists involved with the event, will visit three Ky., schools to host a program and gift their music programs over $10,000 worth of instruments. The concert and motocross event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 6, followed by the ATV trail ride on Sunday, Sept. 7.  Tickets are available onsite for $10 per person, with all proceeds going to benefit Kentucky charities.  Camping is available for the weekend for $50 and slots are first come, first serve. Ride registration begins at 7am on Sunday.  For more info on the 2014 Crockettsville Charity Concert & Trail Ride, please visit www.Crockettsville.com or contact Josh Bleidt at 502-457-7415. For more info on Buckhorn Children & Family Services, visit www.buckhorn.org or call 800-472-3678.

Funds needed for Grandpa Jones Historic Marker

Grandpa Jones - from The Tennessean

One of the most recognizable characters of Hee Haw and the Grand Ole Opry was Grandpa Jones.  The Kentucky native's real name was Louis Marshall Jones, but was well known as Grandpa Jones.  He was a banjo player and loved to play old time country music and ballads.

After being discharged from the Army during World War II, Grandpa Jones would move to Nashville and begin playing on the Grand Ole Opry.  He would marry Ramona Riggins in 1946.  He would be famous for his songs, "Mountain Dew," "Night Train to Memphis," and "T is For Texas."  He wrote "Eight more Miles to Louisville," which has become popular in bluegrass music.

Grandpa Jones would start appearing on Hee Haw, the popular television show that is still broadcasted in repeat on RFD-TV.  One of the many skits he did including the "Hey Grandpa, what's for supper?"

Grandpa Jones was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, as well as the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.  

In 1998, he suffered two strokes after performing a the Grand Ole Opry.  He would pass away on February 19, 1998 in Hermitage, Tennessee, at the age of 84.  He is buried in the Luton Memorial Methodist Church cemetery in Goodlettsville.

The Henderson County Historical and Genealogical Society have received approval from the Kentucky Historical Society to place a historic marker to honor Grandpa Jones at his western Kentucky birthplace in the Niagara community in Henderson County.  However, they are running short of their goal of $2500.  At this point, they have raised $700.

You can help by donating to the cause.  Donations can be sent to:

Henderson County Historical Society

PO BOX 303

Henderson, KY 42419

(502) 546-7778

Be sure to check out this great tribute that The Tennessean newspaper did on Grandpa Jones in 2013, what would have been his 100th birthday.

Enter to Win Autographed Guitar from the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame

My friends over at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame are giving away a historical piece of history.  This is indeed a one of a kind piece.  For every $10 that you donate to the KY Music Hall of Fame, you will be added into the drawing for an autographed guitar signed at the 2006 Induction Ceremony.  Those that have signed the guitar include:

Athena Cage

Boots Randolph

Brice Long

Dottie Rambo

Eddie Montgomery

Hugh X. Lewis

John Conlee

JD Crowe

John Michael Montgomery

Jordon Leigh

Lily Tomlin

Naomi Judd

Sam Bush

Tickets are very limited and you can make a donation multiple ways.  Stop by the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and tell them you would like to make a donation.  You can also send a donation via mail.

Kentucky Music Hall of Fame

2590 Richmond Road

Renfro Valley, KY 40473

Phone: 1-877-356-3263

Be sure to visit their website over at www.kentuckymusicmuseum.com, as well as on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Kentucky-Music-Hall-of-Fame-Museum. 

Josh Osborne added to US 23 Country Music Highway

Black River Publishing’s GRAMMY-winning songwriter Josh Osborne was honored in his hometown this week in celebration of the joint resolution passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate adding the Kentucky native’s name to the US 23 Country Music Highway in Pike County. The home state honor was hosted on Wednesday by the Highway District 12 of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and occurred as Josh has four singles are almost entirely in the Top 20 on the country music chart.

“This was truly an honor for us,” shared State Rep. Leslie Combs. “To be able to do this in honor of Josh, and what he has accomplished, is a tremendous honor for us and one of the greatest ones we’ve had.”

During the official ceremony at Shelby Valley High School, Pike County Judge/Executive Wayne T. Rutherford honored the alumnus with an additional presentation. 

“Where we go and what we do around this country, we are ambassadors of where we come from,” stated Pike County Judge Rutherford. “Before I left the office today, I signed an executive order declaring this [June 11] as “Josh Osborne Day, Pike County Kentucky.”

“Growing up on Country Music Highway, knowing how much all those artists have influenced and inspired me, and now to think that I am even a small part of that heritage means the world to me,” shared Josh. “I honestly don't think any honor could mean more to me.”

Upon accepting these great honors, an emotional Osborne stated, “When something like this happens, and you reach a milestone, you kind of think. ‘How did I get here?’ I look around the room, and I know how I got here, so I thank all of you.”

Among the hometown crowd was Black River Entertainment’s CEO, Gordon S. Kerr; VP of Black River Publishing, Celia Froehlig; and other staff members. Also in attendance at the official ceremony was GRAMMY award winner and 2014 ACM Songwriter of the Year, Shane McAnally (Downtown, Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye) and ACM, CMA and GRAMMY nominated songwriter Brandy Clark (Better Dig Two, Mama's Broken Heart). Both close friends and co-writers of Osborne, the two of them joined Josh at the Hilton Garden Inn that evening to perform a songwriter’s round sponsored by Johnson Industries, benefiting The Pike County Schools’ K.I.D.S. initiative.

The home state honor comes on the heels of Josh’s astonishing eight weeks of having five singles in the top 30 on the country music chart. Currently, Josh’s singles include Blake Shelton’s "My Eyes," closely followed by "We Are Tonight," Billy Currington; "Chainsaw," The Band Perry; and Eli Young Band's, "Dust."

Songs written or co-written by Josh Osborne
Around For a Reason - Jason Greeley
Bad Habit - Sarah Darling
Born That Way - Jason Greeley
Break What's Broken - Charlie Worsham
Chainsaw - The Band Perry
Come Over - Kenny Chesney
Drunk Last Night - Eli Young Band
Dust - Eli Young Band
Feel Good Summer Song - Scotty McCreery
Fill In the Blank - Greg Bates
Fuzzy - Randy Rogers Band
Get a Life - Jason Greeley
Hold You To It - Chris Young
It's Your World - Tim McGraw
Keep It To Yourself - Kacey Musgraves
Leave the Night On - Sam Hunt
Live Our Lives - Jason Greeley
Merry Go Round - Kacey Musgraves
My Eyes - Blake Shelton
Neon - Chris Young
Runnin' Out of Air - Love & Theft
Text Me Texas - Chris Young
The Boy Never Stays - Sarah Darling
Tie It Up - Kelly Clarkson
Usually - Jason Greeley
Wake Up Lovin' You - Craig Morgan
We Are Tonight - Billy Currington
You Never Know - Sara Evans

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Search for the perfect Derby Eve Party Outfit

The last two years, my college pal, Leslie, and I have covered the Unbridled Eve Derby Eve Gala event.  It is nerve wracking for me to try to find "the" perfect outfit for the evening for a red carpet event.  I've covered the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Events and the Derby Eve events for several years now.  The main thing I have learned is that the key to a successful outfit is one that is stylish and comfortable.  You are standing for several hours as the celebrities walk down the red carpet.  You ask questions, take photos, chit chat with folks as you wait for the next celebrity to slowly make their way down the red carpet.  It can be fast pace and slow at times.

The joys of being a music journalist.  You also learn to be quick on your feet with some unique questions.  One year I made Steve Wariner and Eddie Montgomery cry during the KY Music Hall of Fame ceremonies as we got to talking about their families.  Powerful moments indeed.

For me, I'm very picky when it comes to choosing what to wear.  I'm not a skinny mini, and have curves.  I'm more comfortable in camo shirt and jeans, but I will tend to dress up when needed.  This year I'm hoping for something in green.  I've done black and red.  This year I wouldn't mind doing green. I refuse to wear strapless or spaghetti straps.  I don't do mini skirts or short dresses.  Long dress or nice shirt & dress pants would be fine.  You would THINK that would be easy to find.  Nope.  Everything is strapless, spaghetti straps, cupcake Taylor Swift teenager style, or just drastic style that I wouldn't even picture my friends wearing the dress.

 

So for now, you can check out my picks so far for cute outfits for Derby Eve Parties or for red carpet events by checking out my Pinterest Board.  Stay tune...hopefully I'll pick a dress soon!

 

If you like what you read, be sure to show some love by liking me on Facebook.

Talk Derby to Me

I'm beyond excited because I just got word that my best fashionista pal, Leslie, and I are approved to provide Red Carpet Coverage for the Unbridled Eve Derby Eve Gala in Louisville.  This will be our 3rd year covering the event that is held at the Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky.  There are a ton of celebrities and fun times to be had by all.

Here are a few photos from the past couple of years.

Jessica with Meredith of the tv show The Office

Jessica with Jo Dee Messina

Jessica with Bill Fichtner from Batman movies & Prison Break

Jessica with Oscar from the tv show The Office

 

Luke Bryan and his wife at Unbridled Eve

Concert Recap: Froggy St. Jude Jam

 For three years, WFKY Froggy 104.9/101.7 out of Frankfort, Kentucky, has hosted an annual St. Jude Jam.  The concert features the acoustic talents of up and coming country music artists.  I always thought that Froggy puts on some of the best organized events for its listeners.

 

This year's line-up included Kentucky native duo, Aly'an, as well as Josh Pruno and Greg Bates.  Over 200 were in attendance at the Grand Theatre on Saturday night.  The best part, 100% of the proceeds (over $1600) went to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Froggy Crew with Aly'An and Josh Pruno

Aly'An started off the show with a heartfelt set with several good original songs, as well as covering "Landslide."  Highlights included "Busted" about catching a cheating love and "Going Home."



Aly'An singing "Going Home" - Photo by Jessica Blankenship



Josh Pruno captured the room with his singing voice and his stories.  He also put tears in everyone's eyes when he mentioned that it was his 11th wedding anniversary and his family were there.  He dedicated Richard Marx "Right Here Waiting For You" to his wife.  He also brought his young son on stage to cover a Shenandoah tune.  Other highlights include "Better Me Than Me" where a girl does guy things better than the guy in the relationship, "Pistols and Diamonds," and "Another Life" written with Rick Huckabee.  He would end his set with the heartfelt "23rd Psalms."



Josh Pruno - Photo by Jessica Blankenship



Headliner Greg Bates displayed his vocal abilities with a set that seemed short. Opening with "Everywhere With You," he continued to play several other original tunes, "Whipped," "Fill in the Blank," "Drive You Home," "Lost in Caroline," and "Did It For the Girl."  He also covered Garth Brooks' "Papa Loved Mama" and ended with "Heroes," a song recently cut by Justin Moore.



Greg Bates - Photo by Jessica Blankenship





At the end, all of the performers got back on stage to sing "Drift Away," complete with Cricket from Froggy playing tambourine in the background. (You HAD to be there to see what fun that was!) Overall, it was a great time for music and friendship.  Not only that, it was a great cause raising money for St. Jude Children's Hospital.



 

Me with Josh Pruno

 

Community Provides HOPE for Tornado Victims

Sometimes you never know what life can bring you.  Friday, March 2, 2012, many lives were changed as we had one of the worst tornado outbreaks in Kentucky's history.  One of the tornadoes hit a little over 5 miles from my house.  Probably the best thing I do have to say is that our folks in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, etc know one thing - Community.  We joined together to help our neighbors pick up the pieces.

Death Toll Rises with Effects of Kentucky Tornado Outbreak

How to Help Kentucky Tornado Victims

Tornado Outbreak Photos

Video of the West Liberty, Kentucky Tornado

Montgomery Gentry Build Playground for Lexington School

It takes a community to build a village. In this case, it takes two country music stars along with several of their closest friends. Montgomery Gentry, along with volunteers from Home Depot and the Lexington, KY community helped build a playground for the Booker T Washington Academy. It was all as part of the duo winning the Academy of Country Music Award's Humanitarian of the Year.

“We’re going to roll up our sleeves and do as much as they’ll let us get involved in,” Troy Gentry noted. “I like tinkering around with things. And it’s uplifting knowing you’ve done something good for somebody else.”

Thanks to Montgomery Gentry and the several hundred volunteers, Booker T. washington Academy now has a new playground, reading area, and an outdoor classroom. The school was selected in a poll by fans upon announcement of Montgomery Gentry winning the award.

ACM Lifting Lives® is the philanthropic arm of the Academy of Country Music dedicated to improving lives through the power of music. Each year, ACM Lifting Lives provides grants to music therapy and music education programs. Other giving includes serving members of the country music community who face unexpected medical or financial hardship through the Diane Holcomb Emergency Relief Fund and partnering with artists to improve lives through music. For more information, please visit www.ACMLiftingLives.org.

Even rain cannot damper the musical spirits in Crockettsville

Halfway 2 Hazard - by Jessica Blankenship

Saturday afternoon, country music fans gathered in the small community of Crockettsville, Kentucky, for the 3rd Annual Crockettsville Charity Concert and Trail Ride. Nestled in the hills of eastern Kentucky, the Abner Farm, hosted the event that was coordinated by Chad Warrix, Breathitt County native. Proceeds from the event would go to benefit the Buckhorn Children's Home, an organization committed to caring for suffering children in the region. Saturday was filled with acoustic sets by various performers, while Sunday was a fun day on the Eastern Kentucky Trail Ride system.

Starting off the mid-afternoon show was Texas native, Craig Wayne Boyd. Even though he is not officially on a label, country fans have been noticing the talent of this young man as he has been opening shows for the likes of Jamey Johnson and Travis Tritt. His set on Saturday evening was filled with well-written pure country tunes. He would be followed by Chuck Cannon, who has written hits for several artists, including, "I Love the Way You Love Me" for John Michael Montgomery and "Strange" for Randy Houser. Cannon would be laid back throughout his set that showcased his songwriting talents. It is always interesting to hear the songwriter's take of the song that someone else would sing and make it their own.

Nashville Star contestant, Gabe Garcia would take to the stage, singing a mixture of his own tunes, as well as several George Strait hits. One of the highlights would be "Turn On the Texas" with the honky tonking feeling that got your boots tapping. This would be Garcia's third consecutive performance at the event.

Just before the storm clouds appeared, newcomer Randy Montana would bring his own blend of country music to the fans. What some may not have known, this would be one of his last shows before heading out on the road to open for Sugarland on their fall tour. His set would include, "Someday," "Boys of Summer," and the radio single climbing the charts, "Ain't Much Left of Lovin' You." Just as he sang, "Goodbye Rain," the rain clouds would soon grace the sky and the heavens opened up as rain would start to fall down. Eventually has the storms rolled through, Montana's set would be cut due to lightning as fans would have to seek shelter.

Nothing is as calming as listening to the rain fall down on the mountainside as the clouds would roll out and the sun would soon shine. Once the storms would pass over, Randy Montana would continue his set. He would conclude it with, "Love Has a Thousand Faces" that he plans on releasing in January.

Amongst all the male performers, Danielle Peck would shine on her own with her southern country style. Being no stranger to Crockettsville, Peck would entertain the crowd with her third consecutive performance. In honor of those affected with the events of 9/11, Danielle Peck would sing a powerful reindition of "God Bless America." Her set would include the sassy Tammy Wynette tune, "Your Good Girl's Gonna Go Bad," as well as her own tunes. She would shine with passion while singing "I Don't" and showcasing her vocal powers full of emotion. With a voice like that, there is no reason why Danielle Peck should not be the top of the ranks of the females in country music.

An electricifying energy came over the crowd as Keith Anderson would have a full band set, featuring the guitar licks from Chad Warrix. Starting off with "Come On," the crowd would raise to their feet ready for a rocking time. Chad Warrix felt right at home playing guitar for his hometown crowd. The boys would go on to sing, "Lost in This Moment," "XXL," "I Still Miss You," and "Picking Wildflowers." Keith Anderson would be full of smiles with the great performance that brought country-rock to town.

The moment that everyone was looking forward to was the reunion of Halfway 2 Hazard, featuring Chad Warrix and David Tolliver. The duo previously took a break earlier in the year to refocus their energy on other things. Both would continue to support each other and Saturday night, it felt just right to see the two back again. It is very evident that both know where they come from and are honored to play for their hometown crowd. Halfway 2 Hazard showed that they still have heart, pride, and passion for their music and the Appalachian region. Prior to their set, they honored those with 9/11 with a moment of silence.

Halfway 2 Hazard's set was chalked full of southern country rock tunes, including "Taking Me On," and "Countrifried." During "Daisy," the guys would pay tribute and thanks to the fans in the crowd and to those that have helped the event. Chill bumps would come over you as lighters and cell phone lights would light the darkness as everyone sang along to the tune that helped put the duo on the music map. It would be perfect to say that the best setting to sing "I Know Where Heaven Is" is right in the heart of the Appalachian mountains in the community that came together for one cause. Another powerful moment was the heartfelt "Devil And The Cross" that brought a silence over the crowd as they listened attentively to the lyrics.

Following Halfway 2 Hazard to conclude the night was the rock band, LIT, from Fullerton, California. Guitarist Jeremy Popoff is no stranger to the event as he was here for the first one. Not only has he help in the talents with the band, he has also had a knack for writing country songs. From the beginning of the band was on fire with their rocking set. Singing tunes such as "My Own Worst Enemy," as well as "Over My Head."

Even with the storms passing through, the spirits were never dampened in the community. On Sunday, fans alongside celebrities were on hand to take part of the trail ride through the back roads of Kentucky. In all, they were there to support a wonderful cause and to show the support for their local communities.

Kentucky natives Halfway 2 Hazard to host charity event featuring Tim McGraw

Country music duo, Halfway 2 Hazard, of Kentucky will be hosting their 2nd Annual Charity Ride and concert on August 22-23rd in Crockettsville, KY.  The charity event raises money for the Buckhorn Children Center and Family Services.  Over 7500 attended the first annual event and helped raised over $110, 000 for Eastern Kentucky.

This year's event will feature a concert performance by Halfway 2 Hazard, as well as Randy Houser, Jeremey Popoff of Lit, Dierks Bentley, Tim McGraw, Danielle Peck, James Otto, Krista Marie, Whiskey Falls, Gabe Garcia, and Keith Anderson.  For a low cost of $10 per person or $20 per carload, a country music fan cannot go wrong with getting your money's worth and going towards a good cause.

Celebrity appearances will be made by Kyle Petty, Tim Couch, and Ricky Carmickle.

The Trail Ride will be held on Sunday, August 23rd.  It is $20 per individual rider; $5 extra for side-by-side riders or $5 for each additional family member.  The trail ride begins at 10:00 AM with registration from 7:30-9:30 AM.  Riders will ride the East Kentucky Trail System through Perry, Owsley, Leslie, Breathitt, Knott, and Clay Counties.

The concert and ride will be held at the Abner Farm at 586 Highway 315 in Booneville, KY 41314.  The concert will begin at 6:00 PM on August 22nd.

Prior to the charity event, Halfway to Hazard will be performing at Cadillac Ranch in Lexington, Kentucky.  Their current single, "I Know Where Heaven Is", has recently been released to radio.