County fair almost ready to go

The roses are in full bloom, squash blossoms rise from the raised garden, benches boast a fresh coat of aquamarine paint and picnic tables line the walk just waiting for visitors to plop down and enjoy a plate of curly fries and a corn dog.

The Wahkiakum County Fair, dedicated to the Grays River Grange in recognition of its hard work and community service, has begun to take shape.

“It’s sort of like a family,” said fair manager Becky Ledtke of the many volunteers that come together each year in an effort to organize the fair. “We have six superintendents in charge of different events and challenges. Those helpers will bring friends and our list of helpers begins to spiral.”

Those volunteers are working tirelessly to prepare for the 104th Wahkiakum County Fair, “Hay Bales and Pig Tales." Set for August 16, 17, and 18, the event will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Visitors can expect to listen to the sounds of folk music from Hank & Claire, Country Rock from the Daily Band, as well as some bluegrass from the likes of Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising.

“I met Kathy at a blue grass festival and knew I needed to get them to the fair,” recalled Ledtke, “their performance is wonderful.”

“We have a lot of fun things planned for kids’ day too,” said Ledtke. “Curt Carlyle and Alleyoop are each performing two different shows. We took a look at the schedule and really tried to utilize our performers.”

In addition to live performances, guests can expect to see some updates to the fairgrounds and facilities.

“Last year, we used materials that we had lying around to build stalls for the animals. Boards were rotted and the gates were bad but it was the best we could do,” explained Ledtke. “This year, our handyman, Ed Stevens, built 24 new stalls. He didn’t just make them simple either, each gate has a crisscross detail and is painted two toned. It’s a very nice space for kids to keep their animals.

“The stage area is only a year old and we’ve added new bleachers this year."

Ledtke will oversee the baking events in addition to her duties as manager.

Visitors are invited to explore the early 1900’s double-ended Columbia River Gillnet Boat that is now part of the fairgrounds.

“It is displayed with The Legacy of the Columbia River Fishery’s exhibit. There are these huge panels that are 32 x 40 feet. They show the entire history of gillnetting. It’s very special,” Ledtke said.

As Ledtke walks across the fairgrounds, from the main office to the entry gate, her helper Azri Gribskov adds mulch to the garden.

“The state judges will be here this year,” Ledtke said. “They like to see a good deal of signage and agriculture. So, this year, we’ve planted a garden. The pumpkin plants are just starting to crawl.”

In addition to the pumpkins, the tomato stalk possesses sweet flowers and the asparagus plant looks sturdy. The backdrop of the fair itself looks fresh and inviting. The doors open on Monday for the public to bring in entries and displays then, at 9 a.m. on Thursday, the festivities will begin.