What's Happening at the Fair?

Premium checks are on their way so keep checking your mailbox. We had a great turnout this year with lots of new entries. I hope to confirm the attendance numbers in next week’s column but am confident we have beaten last year’s record.

Don’t miss the Wahkiakum Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue fundraising event scheduled for September 20 from 1 – 5 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Bring your canine or feline best friend down and take advantage of the onsite microchip clinic. Open from 1:30 -4:30 p.m., each microchip generates a $20 donation to the Search & Rescue team.

As a volunteer based organization a lot of the behind the scenes action relies on the fair partnering with other community based groups. One of the biggest supporters of the fair has always been the Granges, and both the Skamokawa and Grays River Grange members have been phenomenal in their support of the fair. I especially want to thank the Skamokawa Grange members for helping bring back the fair dance. This is one of the fair traditions I am very excited to bring back and I know that those who attended had a fantastic time.

I also wish to thank the Grays River Grange members who pulled together and purchased not only an ice machine, but a deep fat fryer for the fair grange kitchen. This has made a significant improvement and will benefit the fair year round. The Grays River Grange has also generously donated their old Bingo equipment which the fair association plans to put to good use. Thank you for your continued support!

Speaking of bingo, are you ready to win some frozen chickens? Foster Farms has generously donated some fryers to be used for our upcoming bingo sessions. The board will meet this week to confirm the date but prepare yourself for bingo mania!

Attention all horse gate users! The arena is close to completion and will be available for use by the end of the month. If you would like to purchase a Horse Gate key to access the new arena, please contact the fair office. Please note that the new lock purchased just before fair has been stolen so a new key will be available by the end of September. Key holders must pay $50 for their key which will last for a year. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact the fair manager, 360-795-0438.

As many of you know we were unable to hold a Greased Pig contest this year at fair due to Swine Flu. I wish to thank our sponsor Sam Longtain Construction who upon learning of the cancellation, generously stepped forward to sponsor the Children Logging Show Competition.

As summer draws to an end why not take the family camping? The Wahkiakum County Fair campground is an affordable alternative to a weekend away. Escape into the trees and enjoy the privacy and beauty of our hidden hideaway. Monthly tenants are welcome so if you’d like to make a reservation, call the fair office at 360-795-3480.

Are you looking for a way to support the fair but don’t have time to volunteer? Fear not, as you can always show your support via our ‘Friends of the Fair’ program. For a small donation of $25 you will receive free entry into to all 2009 fairground events. Not only is your donation tax deductible but will help ensure the continuation of our historic county fair. Call or email the fair office today (wahkiakumfair@centurytel.net).