With less than two weeks before the opening of the Oakland County 4-H Fair on July 26, some are ready for the festivities to begin while others are starting to feel deadline pressure.
‘It’s getting very stressful, but no matter what the fair always comes together,? said Cathy Grain, chairperson of the Companion Animals Committee for the 2005 Oakland County 4-H fair.
With registration forms flying in the door, Grain is constantly revising the fair’s schedule of presenters.
‘The main thing day to day is changing (the schedule) and adding people in. We almost have to print a new (schedule) every day,? said Grain.
According to Grain the main preparation for this year’s fair began in January with selection of judges and rough schedule making.
While the fair’s organizers sweat the details, most participants are chomping at the bit to unveil their exhibits, animals and skills.
‘I can’t wait for it to get here because the 4-H fair is a lot of fun,? said Colin McGeen, who is entering with exhibits in legos, paper airplanes and wood crafting as well as competing on his horse Rockin? Rodney.
McGeen along with 152 others and their mounts, used the Paint Creek Valley Horse Club’s open horse show on July 9 to fine tune their routines in the arena. The show, held at the fairgrounds, was the last open horse show before the 4-H fair, which organizers felt contributed to the large attendance.
‘I think it will be easier to go to fair because you only have two to three (equestrian) events a day instead of 10 or more. I’m excited, I haven’t competed at the fair before,? said Kellie Roth.
The Oakland County 4-H Fair runs from July 26-31.
Pick up next week’s edition of The Clarkston News for a look at the events and exhibits highlighting this year’s fair.