IF YOU GOWhat: Tri-County JamboreeWhen: April 2. Gates open at 9 a.m.Where: David Campbell Memorial Park off Highway 30 (toward Decatur), DaytonAdmission: DonationInformation: Call Marty Revis at 423-309-8357 or 423-775-4224.
DAYTON, Tenn.-Money for the expansion of a children’s play area at David Campbell Memorial Park is the goal of the third annual Tri-County Jamboree Crafts and Music Festival.
Park keeper Marty Revis said the events are “how I raise money for maintenance and improvements.”
Last fall, Rhea County Executive George Thacker received $3,000 from the Tennessee Valley Authority to assist with his “Healthy Kids Initiative” program and help purchase updated equipment for area local parks. On Saturday, Thacker said he hadn’t used the money yet but would “partner with Mr. Revis” at the park.
The festival will feature crafters, painters and sculptors. Crafter sites cost $25 for a 10- by 20-foot area with additional space available for purchase.
Craftsmen and artists may enter the “Best of Show” contest. Entrants may submit one handcrafted item, painting or sculpture, according to organizers.
Crafters will donate an item for a fundraising auction as their entry fee, but artists will pay $20. Each category requires a minimum of 10 entries as a contingency for the contest. The winner will receive $100 and free space at next year’s show.
In honor of Revis’ father, Harley “Hop” Revis, who played guitar and loved bluegrass, the jamboree will feature the all-new Battle of the Bluegrass Bands.
A $25 entry fee is required, and the winner will receive a free membership to MusicArtist4you.com with a chance to perform at a local concert sponsored by the website. The winner also will receive 50 percent of the contest’s entry fees.
The Best of Show and Battle of the Bluegrass Bands entrants must register before March 28.
Kimberly McMillian is based in Rhea County. Contact her at kdj424@bellsouth.net.