The Bedford County Fair is just around the corner and preparations are underway in full force. From the stages of Harris Middle and the pageantry events for the newborns to over 18 age group to the Seniors Day, the fair promises something for everyone.

Pat Finney is the director of the Senior Citizens Day-portion of the Fair. Along with Sarah Hill and Gene and Sandra Smith, the committee has taken a step back in time, spotlighting the day with an Ole Timers Storytelling Hour.

"We are so excited about this event," said Finney. "This is an opportunity for the Senior Citizens of Bedford County to tell their stories. Childhood stories, holiday stories -- whatever they have to tell -- this is the time to do it."

"As we celebrate the county's bicentennial, the story telling hour is a way to capture the history that might otherwise be lost. I am really glad we could offer this entertainment and let them dress the part as well."

Finney refers to the invitation for the Senior Citizens to dress in Bicentennial-period clothing for the day. The admission price will even be free for those participating in the dress mode. Those not wishing to dress-up in period fashion of Bedford County's founding heyday will be charged a reduced entrance fee to the Fair for Senior Citizens Day at $2.

"This is a day dedicated to and in honor of our Senior Citizens 55 and older," said Finney. "This is their special day, complete with a fried chicken lunch sponsored by MidState Finance. Because this is a day set aside for the Seniors, the activities are reserved for them alone."

The luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and is for senior participants only.

"The bingo games begin at 10:45 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m.," said Finney. "This is something they all enjoy and thanks to Lee Adcock Construction, there are prizes available for the games as well."

In addition to bingo, bicentennial and story telling, Finney said returning to the day's events were watermelon seed spitting contests and egg catching.

"The presentation of the nation's colors will be done by Franklin Smith and Boy Scout troop 370," Finney related. "Valerie McConnell will sing the national anthem and Chancellor J.B. Cox will say the invocation."

The events are the Fair begins at 10 a.m. and conclude for Senior day following the final round of bingo at approximately 2:30 p.m.

"We are proud to honor our Senior Citizens," said Finney. "This is a day designed for them to enjoy all the activities the Fair offers."

The Bedford County Fair begins on July 23 and runs through July 28. Activities for farm animals, farm equipment, singing, beauty and homegrown delights are scheduled.

For more information on Senior Day, contact Pat Finney at 684-0262, Sarah Hill at 684-5429, or Gene and Sandra Smith at 857-3204.