by Sam Bauman, Appeal Diversions Editor

If you love bluegrass -- and it's a rare Carson Country music lover who doesn't -- you've got a date Saturday at the Bowers Mansion County Park off of old Highway 395 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gates open at 8 a.m. for those seeking the best lawn space.

It's a comfortable, country setting for enjoying this truly American music and gazing at the scenic Washoe Valley. Maybe a picnic and certainly a blanket would be nice.

Carson City's own Back Forty will be part of the program. The group will be joined by True Blue, the Kathy Kallick Band, Harmony Grits and Piney Creek Weasels as well as local bands Saddle Rash and Moonlight Hoodoo Review.

It's an informal setting so one can get up and stroll around the grassy lawn or just lounge in the shade of nice old trees, lay back, and let the music wash over you.

At informal sessions around the grounds, musicians will help those who want to learn how to play bluegrass or just play an instrument. Technical help on repairing old instruments will be offered, and if you ever wanted to learn how to play the harmonica, this might be the time.

Amateur musicians who haven't joined up with a group can take part in open jam sessions after the regular performances.

Bring lawn chairs, musical instruments and their children. Refreshments will be sold, but no pets or glass containers are allowed.

Tickets are $18 at the gate for general admission or $15 for members of Northern Nevada Bluegrass Association.

To get to the mansion, take Highway 395 north to the marked left turnoff at the end of the Washoe Valley. The mansion and park are a few miles up the road. There's plenty of parking.