Finney County Fair!

[Lou]

Hey boys and girls, it's gettin' about fair time.

That means autumn, and football weather, are not far behind.

Looks like they've put together a nice schedule for this year's fair.  Got your demo derby, truck pull, concert (an Eagles tribute band... how cool!), free hamburger feed and even a hot dog eating contest!  Pass the mustard!

I'm looking forward to seeing the traditional displays... the livestock, the produce and farm goods, the kids' artwork and other projects, the photography (Karl, do you have an entry or two planned?) and all the other things that make the Fair a fun place to visit.

Whoever designed the table tents, posters and even the Fair's website this year needs to be applauded.  Good graphics, and worthy of a state fair-level campaign.  Nicely done, indeed.

We'll be at several of the events, even if that means giving up some of my beloved Dodge City Days activities.  Take a minute to check out the Fair's site...

http://www.finneycountyfair.org/

You'll find a lot of good information there to help you plan ahead.  Maybe Mary and I will see you there, July 30th thru August 2nd. 

Now... pass me another hot dog!  I gotta practice up!

 

[Emily Behlmann]

Lou, it's great to hear you'll be participating in the fair this year. The Telegram is sure to be there, too, covering as many events as we can.

So I'm curious, what's everyone's favorite fair memory?

[Lou]

As a kid, in the mid-60's, I remember the carnival setting-up in the area to the north of the present 4-H building and where the Extension office currently is.  Yep, it was on dirt and grass and it always seemed so FUN!  This was years before the concept of wristbands, so you had to pay for each ride individually.  I saved my allowance money and mowed lawns to earn enough to buy tickets for rides, cotton candy and soda pop.  I also remember, later, attending some decent country music concerts in the old wood-frame grandstand.  I remember John Conlee and even the band Lonestar playing here before they made it to the big time.

I also loved the farm implement displays (there used to be so many!) and the animals.  I entered some photography exhibits in the mid 70's also (and maybe won a red ribbon or two!).  Another thing I remember is the smaller, individual food booths from the 60's and 70's.  The 4-H, FFA and others had their own fund-raising stands and they served-up some mighty tasty burgers and hot dogs.  But the best memory is of the old-time carnivals that came to town with all their lights, loud music and fun times and being there with my parents, my sisters and my friends.

[Emily Behlmann]

Ah, sounds like good times. 

One of our reporters, Stephanie Farley, wrote in a column today (http://www.gctelegram.com/Opinion/On-the-grounds-7-31-09) that she was encouraged to consider entering something in the fair next year. Any advice for a first-timer?