Country gospel singer to perform

Country gospel singer Susie McEntire will present a concert as a prelude to the 83rd annual Marion County Fair.

McEntire, named artist of the year several times in the category “positive country music,” will perform at 8 p.m. July 21 at USD 408 Sports and Aquatic Center in Marion.

McEntire has released 14 CDs and had four No. 1 singles on the positive country charts. She also has received nominations and awards from the Nashville Network, the Gospel Music Association, and the Canadian Music Association. Her sister, Reba McEntire, is a country music star.

Tickets cost $10 in advance or $12 at the gate for adults 13 years or older. Tickets for children ages 5 to 12 cost $5. Children younger than 5 will get in free with a paid adult admission.

Tickets can be purchased at Central National Bank in Marion or Hillsboro; Emprise Bank in Hillsboro; Cottonwood Valley Bank in Florence, Lincolnville, and Cottonwood Falls; Tampa State Bank in Marion; Peabody State Bank in Peabody; and Citizens State Bank in Goessel.

Youth groups from Marion Christian Church, Eastmoor United Methodist Church, Florence Christian Church, Hillsboro United Methodist Church, First Mennonite Church, and Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church are selling tickets as well.

Each group will receive a percentage of sales.

Tickets are also available at Zion Lutheran Pre-school in Newton or by calling (620) 381-0109.

The fair officially will begin July 24 with a parade through Hillsboro and concludes July 27 with a demolition derby.