The Decatur County Fair Committee met recently in anticipation of this year’s fair scheduled to start on July 13, 2023.
The Committee offered updates on several topics: Vendor booths are available. Saturday June 10, 2023 from 10am to noon, Fair Committee Representatives Danny Peters and Bill Metz will be at the Decatur County Fairgrounds and interested vendors can stop by to reserve and pay for their booth. Liability insurance is required for the week of the fair and vendor’s can furnish their own policy or receive information for insurance coverage for $65.00 for that week when they reserve their booth.
Updates and remodeling is underway on some projects at the Fairgrounds. The Commercial Building is undergoing an interior transformation including a dropped ceiling, insulation, wall covering and lighting.
The Decatur County Fair Parade was discussed briefly with coordinator Chris Ramey. Anyone interested in participating can contact Chris or the Extension Office. The route was discussed and will see slight changes toward the end of the route. Stay tuned for updates.
Preparation for Open Class exhibits is underway. This year’s committee is stepping in to continue the tradition following the retirement of the Decatur County Homemakers as coordinators after many years. The Open Class Rules booklet is available and several locations and the Extension Office. Check for rules, project details and entry times as there are a few new projects offered this year.
Pre-Sale ride tickets will begin on Monday June 5th at the following locations: Napoleon State Banks, German American Bank, Vinyl Solutions, Sanders Market, Letts Hardware, Lowes Pellet and Grain, Game Plan, Delta Faucet, WTRE, Syd’s Florist and Wash and Clean, Decatur County REMC, Tops Hardware and Proman Staffing.
Representatives from the 4-H program reported they are on schedule with preparations for this year’s fair. Due to safety concerns, there will be additional fencing added to the top of the bleachers in the Livestock Building.
Discussion was held on possibly upgrading the sound system for the Horse and Pony Show area.
Grandstand Events are scheduled and include a full week of activities. New this year will be a Rodeo on Sunday evening. and Music by Rachel Holt and Sean Abbott on Wednesday evening to wrap up the fair.
The Decatur County 4-H Fair books will be available in early June. Check at the Decatur County Extension Office for availability.
The next scheduled Fair Committee meeting is June 14th at 6pm. Meetings are open to the public.
Kathy Verseman – WTRE News