Getting ready for the fair, which starts today

For 4-H families, August is a time of preparation and anticipation, culminating when the Wahkiakum County Fair opens on Thursday, August 18 (today). But volunteers work just as hard to make the fair grounds perfect.

In the past three months, volunteers racked up over 1000 hours getting the fair ready for its first day today (Thursday), Fair Manager Becky Ledtke said.

Last week, the T Building was ready, freshly washed gingham curtains in place, new paper, and bright colors welcoming visitors. Valle Ledtke was cutting out letters for signs. She said she likes making the buildings bright for visitors and designing t-shirts.

Mark Crary of Kelso was paneling the exterior of a new stage, built with two-feet stem walls and waist high electrical outlets to avoid water damage.

“We want this to last for a long, long time,” said Becky Ledtke.

The horse barn has new concrete pathways, donated by Valerie Antijunti from Selah, who is the horse barn superintendent.

“We want the people with walkers or wheel chairs to be able to get everywhere easily,” Ledtke said.

Carrie Shofner and Mike Backman installed self-waterers for the goats and sheep pen last Saturday. The pens, painted a light green, were made from lumber recycled from the storm in 2008 that downed buildings.

Jerry Ledtke was preparing for the salmon barbecue. Ben Elkinton had donated racks for grilling salmon. “When he heard it was for the fair, he said, take it," Ledtke said.

The fair uses work release inmates, and community service hours as well as volunteers. Inmates have worked alongside Georgie Billings and Barbara Clark helping weed and water. They’ve also painted horse stalls along with Mackenzie Stevens.

Handyman Ed Stevens has worked hard, Ledtke said.

Ledtke’s strategy for moving through the stress of getting ready for the Fair is “to smile and move through it.”