Martin and Mary Blair have dedicated a significant part of their lives in the service of other people. Since 1970, they have been principal members of the La Vergne Rescue Unit, on call day and night to help people in need. Martin is the longest serving current member and is in his 40th year as treasurer of the organization.
The city of La Vergne will honor the Blairs for their years of dedication and compassion at the 2014 Old Timers Festival. The festival will begin on Tuesday, September 9 will carnival rides and culminate on Saturday, September 13 with a parade and fun day in the park.
“Our theme this year is ‘Neighbors Serving Neighbors’ and Mr. and Mrs. Blair perfectly symbolize the volunteer spirit. They have helped hundreds of people during their times of crisis. They also serve their faith community by helping to staff the food bank and clothing closet at their church, and they work with Meals on Wheels delivering nutritious food to people in need,” said Mayor Senna Mosley. “We can only hope that all of us as citizens of La Vergne would follow their lead as role models. It is an honor that they are representing the city as our grand marshals.”
The annual country ham breakfast hosted by the La Vergne Rescue Unit will be held from 5:00 – 10:00 a.m. on September 13. The city has moved the parade start time this year to 11:00 a.m. to accommodate the grand marshals. While rides and booths will open at 10:00 a.m., the welcoming ceremony is scheduled at 1:00 p.m.
Thousands of people are expected to again attend the annual Old Timers Festival which will feature free live entertainment, great festival food, craft artisans, and the opportunity to meet local organizations, businesses, and political candidates.
Do you want to be a part of the event?
Applications are now being accepted for craft exhibitors, food vendors, informational displays, civic organizations, parade entries, and more. All food vendors must have a current State of Tennessee Health Certificate in their possession for the duration of the Festival to participate.
