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RACHEL DOVE-BALDWIN

Staff Writer

BELFRY, Ky. - “We’re changing locations this year – I guess you might describe our 9th annual festival as somewhat of a new beginning and rejuvenation,” commented Pat Waters, organizer and one of the founders of Pneumafest , a Christian rock festival that has been a tremendous success for the Tug Valley area for several years.

Pat and her husband, the late Reverend William Waters who passed away in 2007, have been involved with the festival since its beginning. Pat stated that she filled the role of supportive wife and assisted her husband in whatever ways possible during the early years, and said that after his death, she found herself thrust into the role of planner and organizer.

“I was more of a behind the scene person during the first years the festival took place, but after we lost my husband, I had a great desire to see Pneumafest continue to thrive,” said Pat. “This was something he was so passionate about, and I knew that I had to step up and do my best to help the tradition continue.”

“My son Nathan is very involved with Pneumafest, and I know that his dad would be very proud of the young man he has become. He will hopefully stay true to this cause and keep it going for many years to come.”

The 2012 Pneumafest is scheduled to take place on August 3rd and 4th, at Black Gem, Ky., on the Belfry Soccer Field. Friday evening’s (3rd) event is slated to begin at 6 p.m., with headliner Christian entertainers “Aaron Gillespie” and “Before Their Eyes” taking the stage. Several local groups will also be featured. Saturday’s (4th) portion of the festival will start at 5 p.m., with “Big Daddy Weave” and Rush of Fools” providing the musical entertainment. A message will be presented by special speakers each evening.

Tickets for the event ($15 for adults, $10 for students) may be purchased in advance by visiting the website www.pneumafestival.com, or by contacting Pat at 304-235-2533. This price includes admission for both nights, and single evening tickets are also available. Children under the age of 6 are admitted free of charge. Tickets will also be available at the gate.

The non-denominational festival that is sponsored by area churches, businesses and individuals,has a facebook page, which can be found by typing “Pneumafest” into the search bar.

When asked what he felt that area youth attending the festival would take away from their experience, Nathan, who is a Regional Christian School student, said that he hoped they would not only enjoy the fellowship of their friends and the great music that will be provided, but would leave with a different perspective and outlook on life and its meaning.

“The songs that the bands play and sing all have wonderful messages, and the whole atmosphere at the festival is one that I think everyone should experience,” stated Nathan. “It’s a very positive environment for area teens.”

Pat spoke of how the festival is a tribute to her late husband, and said it is dedicated to not only his memory, but to the many years of tireless dedication and commitment he paid to the planning and organizing of the event that he held near and dear to his heart.

“We hope that everyone will attend this year’s festival,” said Pat. “We’ve always held it in Williamson, and with the changes to this year’s location, we’re hoping to draw an even larger crowd.”

“We had approximately 2,000 attend the 2011 event, and we’d like to increase those numbers.”

Pat added that “Funtime Inflatables” of the Southside Mall plan to have several inflatables set up for the younger children to enjoy, and said that food vendors with the Pike County Soccer Association will be offering a variety of treats and drinks for those who want to purchase them.

“This is an awesome event for people of all ages, but it is centered on our youth,” remarked Pat. “We won’t turn anyone away…that’s not what God would have us to do.”

“We want to share the gospel with the Tug Valley area, while providing a positive environment and uplifting messages that are definitely needed in the world we’re living in today.”

“Come on out and share the weekend with us,” concluded Pat. “I’m sure you’ll be glad that you did.”