Annual event to take place on Tuesday

MILL SPRING — Rain or shine, hundreds of seniors will attend the Prime of Life Festival, a senior lifestyle and wellness event at the Tryon International Equestrian Center Tuesday morning.

More than 50 venders will set up booths under the pavilion at the Legends club to offer health screenings, massages and information on topics ranging from insurance to investing.

The event started in Rutherford County 14 years ago, and this is the second year it has been held in Polk County.

“The thing I like about the event being in Polk County is it tends to be more regional,” said event organizer Rodney Greene, CEO of Time-Out Management. “We get people from Polk and Rutherford Counties, from Hendersonville and even from South Carolina.”

Those attending can learn about all aspects of senior and retirement living. In addition to two informative medical talks by area doctors, the event’s main sponsor, Rutherford Heating & Air, will discuss ways to conserve energy and the importance of HVAC maintenance for efficiency and safety.

St. Luke’s Hospital, Rutherford Regional Health System and Pardee UNC Health Care will be on hand to help with information and health screenings.  Other sponsors for the event include Isothermal Planning and Development Commission, Rutherford Heating & Air, Tryon Daily Bulletin, Amedisys  and Time-Out Management.

Greene said The Prime of Life Festival is designed to be the best hub of knowledge and information on how to better plan for retirement, personal comfort, independence and many more factors that affect quality of life for seniors.

“Resources such as these being available all in one location, is an invaluable asset to our community as a whole,” Greene said.

In addition to the health and wellness information, renowned Kenny Rogers tribute artist Tim Sells will entertain the attendees with a special noon performance. The Charlotte Music Awards recognized Sells as one of the top three tribute artists in North Carolina.

Greene said there will be drawings for raffles, gift basket giveaways, gift certificates and other door prizes. The event will take place rain or shine from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, and admission is free. The location of the equestrian center is 4066 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring.

“Last year, we had more than 400 people attend,” Greene said. “We expect even more this year.”