What's Happening at the Fair?

The countdown has begun for the highly anticipated Mules vs. Comets Dodge Ball match. With just over a week left before the big match next Saturday, don’t miss your chance to sign up. The match is open to all students as well as alumni so bring the whole family. Sign up sheets are available in your school's office or you can contact the fair office at 795-3480.

Dust off those broomsticks and sharpen your fangs as Halloween is quickly approaching. Better yet, this year’s Oktoberfest Harvest Celebration is just around the corner. Scheduled for October 31 from 12 - 6 p.m., the 2009 Oktoberfest Harvest Celebration is one event you can’t afford to miss.

Come on down and witness the return of the Pumpkin shot put contest. Kicking off at 1 p.m., find out who will be named the 2009 Pumpkin Shot Put winner. Open to all ages, this year’s competition will focus solely on distance and will be split between children and adults.

Don’t miss the first annual amateur lawn mower race. Generously sponsored by Watkins Tractor Supply in Kelso, this is a new event aimed at adults. The lawnmower race will kick off at 4 p.m. and only costs $5 to enter. If you think you’ve got what it takes, call the fair office and sign up today.

I am happy to report that more kind individuals have stepped forward to donate their fair premium checks. I wish to say a special thanks to Barbara Rose and Howard and Judith Brawn.

During my time as fair manager I have had the pleasure to work with a huge number of volunteers within our community and feel proud to be a resident of Wahkiakum County. Each year I have been surprised by the generosity and support the fair generates. From sponsors to the exhibitors, I am thankful that in this difficult economic climate that so much kindness is still present.

As in 2008, this year we had money turned in by children during fair, including Jacob Eaton who discovered $20 in the Horse Barn, as well as generous donations from local businesses and non-profits. The Grays River, Skamokawa, and Elochoman Granges have been incredible in their support of the fair and have made a tremendous difference in helping the fair become self sufficient.

I am thrilled to say that the fair is under budget and has confirmed income up until June 2010. I have worked very hard with the fair board to utilize the fairgrounds and am hopeful the county will find a way to lend financial support in 2010. Time will tell but the future looks bright.

Would you like to become involved with the planning of our 102nd fair next summer? The fair board is looking for new volunteers and potential members to join one of the new fair committees. Whether it’s entertainment, the princess program or the fair book, this is your chance to help make a difference and let your voice be heard.

The Wahkiakum County Fair board meets every month on the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the third floor meeting room of the courthouse. The next fair board meeting will take place on November 11. Please note that the public is always welcome to attend.

In an effort to cut costs and stay within our budget the fair office will now be open by appointment only. If you need to gain access to the fairgrounds please contact the fair office or leave a message on my cell phone, 360 -355-7743.