Albany Democrat-Herald

BROWNSVILLE - Judging by ticket sales, the second year of the Willamette Country Music Festival was a success in its first two days. All 8,000 tickets were sold out Saturday at the 300-acre site near Brownsville.

Co-organizer Warren Williamson said Saturday afternoon that he was anticipating record-breaking crowds for that night's performance of headliner Keith Anderson.

"The organizers did a great job," Deana Kelly of Philomath said. She and her husband, Bob, came for the music. "This is the first year we are out here, and we'll definitely be back next year."

Friday night's headliner, Emerson Drive, drew more than 6,000 fans, Williamson said.

In addition to entertainment for country music fans, the event had attractions for youngsters as well. Children lined up to enjoy the PlayStation Experience, an expanded trailer filled with more than 20 gaming stations.

"The trailer started to fill up with campers on Thursday," Williamson said Saturday.

Katelyn Richmond, 16, from Coos Bay said the PlayStation Experience, "gives the kids something to do while their parents are out listening to music."

Festival organizers had to overcome some hurdles to pull the event together. They were denied an outdoor assembly permit in June because the Linn County Commissioners didn't think they had provided enough information about insurance, fire safety and emergency access.

In July, organizers again submitted their permit application after addressing the commissioners' concerns. The permit was approved to allow up to 8,000 people.

According to Lawrence Van Hoof, on-site manager, organizers already have started planning for next year.

The festival continues today with local singer Amy Clawson and recording artists Lonestar and Neal McCoy. Gates open at noon.