The 150th Oceana County Fair - Special Section

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The 150th Oceana County Fair

MEDIA Welcome to the 150th Oceana County MEDIA Fair LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS | OCEANA’S HERALD-JOURNAL | WHITE LAKE BEACON

LUDINGTON DAILY NEWS | OCEANA’S HERALD-JOURNAL | WHITE LAKE BEACON

Welcome!

On behalf of the Oceana County Agricultural Society, I invite you to attend the 150th Anniversary of the “Best Little Fair” in Michigan.

After the “Virtual Fair” of 2020, it is heartwarming to be able to gather on the grounds this year. It is not the “same” as it had been, but this is a step in the right direction. We have our youth and their animals on the grounds, and the exhibit buildings have life in them again. It has been far too long.

I was raised in Oceana County, and have attended the fair my entire life.

It was a very important part of our family. Receiving the stock from my parents meant I was to take a role in the future of our fair. I would have a part of putting smiles on the faces of both the young and the old. Fair gives our youth a sense of responsibility in the future of Oceana County’s agriculture.

I must thank our board of directors for its positive influence and forward thinking as to our future.

We have made changes to policy, and improvements to the grounds.

We see a bright future making the grounds available to the community in the years to come. The grounds have much to offer and many yet unforeseen opportunities will arise.

We have the tools to change the complexion of Hart and our County of Oceana.

We are committed to making our grounds ADA compliant, and growThe 150th Oceana County Fair

ing the ways we can better serve our guests. We are working with the Disability Network to make our handicap parking as best it can be. There are hurdles to overcome, but we’ll make every effort to make the fair a positive experience for those who are challenged to attend. Look about this fair and take note of the changes in process. We are in a growth pattern, and our goal is to make it grow in a concerned and orderly fashion.

We have an ongoing concern for the “Safety and Security” of our children at fair. Our cameras are installed and we have developed a “Kid’s Camp” for our 4-Hers who spend long hours at the fair. It is an enclosed area for them to keep their belongings and to take a break now and then. We are also trying to eliminate the dark areas where “bad actors” may be. Many new LED lights have been installed to help make our fairgoers safe.

This year, the fair board sought and secured a grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for the restoration and renovation of the grandstands.

Our engineering study identified weaknesses to be addressed. We have also created a fund within our Community Foundation for Oceana County to raise the capital to meet that end. We also must address our kitchen and restrooms along with our shower facility to meet the needs of the future. We see these grounds hosting hundreds outside of the week of fair. Our direct connection to the rail trail only enhances

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Ludington Daily News 202 N Rath Ave. P.O. Box 340 Ludington, MI 49431 (231) 845-5181 (231) 843-4011 fax Oceana’s Herald-Journal 123 State Street PO Box 190 Hart, MI 49420 (231) 873-5602 (231) 873-4775 fax

the opportunities moving forward.

In closing we would like to thank each and every one of you for this opportunity to give back to the place that we love. Oceana County.

With heartfelt appreciation,

White Lake Beacon PO Box 98 Whitehall, MI 49461 (231) 894-5356 (231) 894-2174 fax

Publisher: Ray McGrew VP/CRO: Banks Dishmon Sales: Monica Evans, Shelley Kovar, Jan Thomas, Stacie Wagner

Paul Erickson President of the Oceana County Agricultural Society

Visit oceanafair.com for the most up-to-date Fair information

Graphics: Judy Lytle, Julie Eilers, Shanon McDowell, Robin Moline, Candy Bryant News: David Bossick – Ludington Jeff Kiessel – Ludington John Cavanagh – Hart Amanda Dodge Dodge––Hart Hart&& Whitehall Amanda -Whitehall OHJ Managing Editor - Fair Tab designer © Copyright 2021 Shoreline Media © Copyright 2021 Shoreline Media

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 3

It’s not special treatment, if you treat everyone special. simple human sense CONGRATULATIONS TO THE OCEANA COUNTY FAIR ON 150 YEARS

OFFICE LOCATIONS

HART • 231.873.3385 SHELBY • 231.861.2285 PENTWATER • 231.869.6021 WHITEHALL • 231.893.1156

Page 4 • Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021

The 150th Oceana County Fair

Remembering Fairs gone by – the History of Oceana County’s Fair

By Caleb Jackson Contributing

writer

The history of the Oceana County Fair is one of constant expansion and improvement. It has cemented itself into the hearts of Oceana’s residents as an integral part of life in our county and although some attractions and exhibits may change over the years, there are those that have remained since day one, such as animal showmanship and the horse races. Each and every year, the fair aims to be bigger and better than the last and this year is no exception, considering its extended schedule spanning two weeks. Though last year’s circumstances necessitated a less involved fair, it still made history by being the first fully virtual event. Beyond that, the county’s unwillingness to forfeit the fair, despite the global circumstances, shows how large of an impact its presence has had on local lives.

Looking back at the history of the fair, we can see the fairgrounds as we know them today slowly begin to take shape. It was a man named L.J. Rutherford who first dreamt up the Oceana County Fair and cajoled several businessmen into getting the event off the ground, way back in 1870. This simultaneously gave birth to the Oceana County Agricultural Society. An article written by former OHJ Editor Lowell Rinker which appeared in the 28th issue of The Hart Journal back in 1971 even tells us the names of the first board members, “James E. Reed as president, Alexander Pittenger as vice-president, J Palmiter as secretary and as directors Hazen Leavitt, A. R. Wheeler, O. K. White, Caleb Davis, Jr., W. J. Tennant, Theodore Taylor, William J. Sprigg, J. J. Kittridge and S. A. Browne.”

The same article goes on to tell us that Rutherford, the very man we have to thank for this fair that we hold so dearly, “stepped out of the picture forever after getting the meeting started.” Perhaps after getting what he wanted, he dissolved into another smiling face in the crowd amongst the satisfied fairgoers.

Rinker then goes on to tell us about the

The 150th Oceana County Fair

acquisition of the fairgrounds and how they have grown over the years. The fairgrounds have been located in the same place ever since 1874, but it wasn’t until 1879 that Mahar Wigton and Lydia Bosworth formally contracted the land to the Agricultural Society. It was 21 acres at that time. In 1913, the Agricultural Society purchased what is today the northeast corner of the fairgrounds from W. R. Roach and Company, which previously had a factory on the land, which housed the Hart Potato Starch Company and the Hart Flour Company. Seven and a quarter more acres would be added in 1942 when the far west side of the fairgrounds were purchased from Helen and Harold Damkroger, Catherine and Henry Havestock and Grace Barker, bringing the total acreage up to 36.

This year, the grandstand has undergone renovations, which seems to be a tradition preceding major anniversary events. In 1971, just prior to the fair’s 100th anniversary, the entire floor of the grandstand was replaced.

New supporting timbers were also added to the building, which was already over 50 years old at that time, having been rebuilt sometime after the original grandstand burned down in 1915.

The centennial fair must have been a massive success. By the following year, fences were being moved and paved roads added to allow for parking areas. This was done to avoid infield parking, which the state had deemed unsafe.

Far more interesting than the history of the fairgrounds, however, are some of the attractions that have been offered in the past. Another article found in the Hart Journal, this time from 1921, tells us about some of the attractions that were offered for the fairs 50th anniversary, “A herd of trained elephants will be the star attraction with several other high class comedy acrobatic acts. There will also be an aeroplane which will perform all the hair-raising stunts in the air which made Uncle Sam’s aviators a factor in the World War, it will also carry passengers.” With the African Elephant now being considered an endangered species, and an increased need for air safety regulations in the modern era, it is highly unlikely we will ever see events like this at the fair again. On the subject of fair attractions unlikely to return, during the

fair’s 100th anniversary the then fair board president, Bert Stevens, came up with the idea to give out $100 each day to one lucky attendee at random.

Esther Moul, who volunteers at the Oceana County Historical and Genealogical Society remembers a unique “free show” she witnessed sometime around 1936. She recalled sitting on her father’s shoulders to watch a troupe of trained birds. “There was a platform on which a little miniature village was set up,” Moul said, “and the birds were brought out to occupy the village.” She went to describe that there were mini carts which the birds could manually operate to navigate the town. “Suddenly, one of the little buildings caught fire,” Moul said, “and several of the little birds quickly hopped on a miniature fire truck. They steered it over to the fire and pressed something with their feet,” she laughed to herself as she recounted the story, “and water squirted out and put out the fire.”

It’s hard to imagine such an event occurring at the fair these days and the novelty of the act wasn’t wasted on the crowd, which Moul said began to clap and cheer.

Esther Moul turned 90 this year. She is just one of the many members of this community who have fond memories of the Oceana County Fair from their childhood. As a child, she would attend the fair with her parents, who hosted an exhibit in the fruit hall. She claims she had to beg them before she was able to do anything fun, as they were so busy attending to their exhibit. The Oceana County Fair was where Moul had her first pony ride, merry-go-round ride and her first ride on a Ferris wheel. “The fair was always a big event in local entertainment,” Moul said, “not to be missed.” This year will continue that 150-year-long legacy.

• Courtesy of OCH&GS

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 5

Meet the host of Tuesday Night Talent– music

By Caleb Jackson Contributing

writer

“I’ve had one foot in Michigan ever since I left for Tennessee,” Edgar Struble said when asked what brought him back to the Great Lakes State.

“I’ve always considered it my home and I have dear friends here,” he added. The prestigious musician has contacts all over the globe and after finishing a 15-year career with Kenny Roger’s backing band, Struble found himself moving to California in 1999 to pursue work in the film and television industry. Ultimately, it was his daughter that brought him back to the state he calls home.

“My daughter got accepted to Michigan State University,” he explained, “and after we wrote the first check for the out-of-state tuition, we decided we’d better look at something else,” he laughed. “So, I moved back here and got her through undergraduate school, we started fixing up the house, and now we’re here six months out of the year, sometimes more.”

Struble gave a virtual performance with the Kenny Roger’s band at Oceana’s County Fair last year, paying tribute to the late country star, and this year he will be hosting Tuesday Night Talent on the 24th. Despite having a career that has taken him across the nation, he still has a special connection with the local fair. “It was one of the first fairs I ever played at,” he said before explaining that he played organs at the fair for a Muskegon based organ dealer back in the late 1960s.

Struble’s memories of growing up in a small town in West Michigan are very precious to him and he believes they had an impact on him as a musician. “I write all styles of music just as part of my job,” he explained. This includes writing

Edgar Struble for shows such as the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. “The styles are 180 degrees apart,” he said, “but when I write stuff for my own enjoyment, it leans towards Americana.” He also described life as a young boy growing up in Scottville, hearing the train’s whistle every night at 11 p.m. and hearing the steam whistle of the local canning shop blow every time the shifts changed. “People nowadays don’t get to grow up with stuff like that,” he said, “in the big old world it’s very insignificant stuff, but it had a lasting impression on me.”

When asked about his expectations for this year’s fair, Struble had this to say, “This is the 150th anniversary of the Oceana County Fair, so this whole thing is all about community, it’s all about fellow-

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ship and friendships, so it makes perfect sense to bring in local talent and showcase that, and I’m looking forward to it because that’s where folks get started.” When asked about what someone who has worked with musical legends thinks about local talent acts, he said, “some folks might never go beyond local talent, but it’s still a warm experience and they’re still terrific entertainment.” Struble also mentioned that he enjoyed the performances he saw at last year’s fair and that he’s looking forward to seeing what else the county has to offer.

These days, Struble said he is working on a special project to celebrate Lee Greenwood, the creative mind behind hits such as “God Bless the U.S.A.”, “Dixie Road,” and “Somebody’s Gonna Love You.” The project is being filmed and com-

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director, producer, author/speaker Edgar Struble prises a large cast of what Struble called “legacy artists,” acts such as The Oak Ridge Boys, The Gatlin Brothers and T. Graham Brown. Struble himself will be playing keys on the tribute, in addition to his roles as musical director and associate producer. It will eventually be aired as three one-hour specials, though at this moment it is not known whether it will be on cable television or streaming services. He has also been working on some independent feature film productions with a Mason County based director named Harold Cronk, with whom Struble said he has produced “a couple of kid’s adventures and a faith-based film called God Bless the Broken Road.” God Bless the Broken Road also had a theatrical debut in September of 2018. “And I’m in the middle of securing the rights to a novel by an author named Andy Andrews called ‘The Heart Mender’, which we hope to make into a film maybe next year,” he added.

Struble heaped much praise on Paul Erickson too, the president of the fair board, saying “he’s

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been the impetus for a lot of the events that have transpired the last couple years,” with last year’s fair being among them. “If it wasn’t for him, they probably would have missed the fair entirely last year, but he insisted on doing a virtual event and

• Herald-Journal file photo and contributed photo

it worked out pretty well.” Struble said. Then he paused and thought for a moment before summing his thoughts on Paul Erickson by saying, “He’s a good guy and he has a heart for Oceana County.”

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The 150th Oceana County Fair

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 7

4-H barns reopen for 150th Oceana County Fair

By John Cavanagh

Herald-Journal Writer

After a year’s hiatus due the COVID-19 pandemic, exhibit buildings and barns at the Oceana County Fair are expected to return to their usual look.

“We are so thankful to be able to offer a face-to-face experience for the 4-H youth,” said 4-H Coordinator Sarah Schaner. “Our number of exhibits may be down, but we invite you to come out and enjoy the exhibits and have good family fun at the fair.

“We have the same precautions as most events, namely no food sharing, but we can make that work well,” Schaner continued. “We will be hosting two 4-H auctions. Our Small Market auction will be Saturday at 5 p.m. Our Large Market auction will be Thursday at 7 p.m. Our large market auction will be a wonderful place to purchase beef, lamb or pork for your freezer as well as our Junior/Small Market auction. It will be a great place to purchase poultry, feeder beef, rabbits and goats.”

For the purpose of MSU Extension events and programs, indoor events are considered those in an enclosed building with limited airflow. Barns and other outbuildings that have multiple doors that can be fully opened to maximize air flow are considered an outdoor, open air facility. Currently all of the buildings at the Oceana County Fair fall under the outdoor, open air facilities guidelines and face masks will not be required.

• Herald-Journal file photos

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The entire county is invited to officially commemorate the 150th year of the Oceana County Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021 with a special celebration scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. in the grandstands. Admission will be free.

“We are so excited to be celebrating 150 years of the fair in this historic building. Blackmer’s Construction is doing a beautiful job repairing, strengthening and beautifying this iconic structure. Renovations include repairs to the grandstands seating, new siding and vendor doors and a beautiful green wainscoting. Someday the plan is to do a complete rebuild of the grandstands seating, however more funding is needed to do it right. For now we can be confident the seating is supported properly and has been repaired where needed. Celebration program details are still coming together, but it will be an event you won’t want to miss. We plan to share some fair history, recognize dignitaries and long-time supporters and end by dedicating ‘The Stables,’ our new gathering space below the grandstands,” Fair board President Paul Erickson said. “Following the dedication a reception will be hosted for all by the Oceana County Farm Bureau. The grandstands have a wonderful and important past in Oceana County and we were thrilled to be the recipients of a Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development grant, as well as some in-kind donations, to cover the costs of these renovations. Being able to open up this lower level space for use by the public will open up all sorts of possibilities. I can see it being an enjoyable place to meet friends during the fair, as well as a place for gatherings throughout the entire year. Eventually kitchen and bathroom facilities will be installed as monies become available.”

The Farmworker Appreciation Night, which has traditionally been on Wednesday night of the fair, will not be part of the fair line up this year. Instead it will be included as part of a later event hosted by the Oceana County Hispanic Center, Erickson said.

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Kaitlynn lives on

- presenting the Scott Family Memorial Building

By Mary Beth Crain Contributing Writer

June 3, 2019 is a date that the 4-H community will never forget. It marked a devastating tragedy—the death of 14-yearold Kaitlynn Scott and her father, Eric Scott. Kaitlynn, a 4-H standout, was a brilliant rider, FFA member and enthusiastic participant in the Small Market Program. She and Eric were out jogging on a warm summer evening when they were hit by an International Farm truck. Kaitlynn died instantly; Eric passed away in the hospital.

If there are angels on earth, Kaitlynn,

many believed, was one of them. A radiantly beautiful girl with a memorable smile, she was the embodiment of goodness.

“There was something special about Kaitlynn,” reminisced Kim Eubank, Kaitlynn’s 4-H leader, in an interview for the Oceana Herald-Journal following the young teen’s death. “She was different from most kids. She was kind to everyone she met, she was always positive, she never complained if she didn’t win, she didn’t bad mouth other kids, she encouraged everyone to do their best, and what she will forever be known for is she was

always smiling.”

That’s why the words, “Always Smile”—Kaitlynn’s motto—are displayed on the metal railing at the entrance to a new addition to the fairgrounds: the Scott Family Memorial Building.

The two-story structure will serve as a multi-purpose home for registration and concessions, as well as an announcer’s booth for horse shows. It’s a welcome improvement on past accommodations.

“In years past, we’ve had to use tents, which could be really miserable when the wind blew,” Eubank acknowledged. “So, the memorial building will be a big im-

provement.”

The building is the brainchild of Chad Coker, the owner of Appletree Automotive, whose daughter, Chloe, was very close to Kaitlynn and showed horses with her at the fair. Chad’s wife, Amanda, a longtime member of the Oceana County Horse Development Committee, was also hit hard by Kaitlynn’s death.

“Kaitlynn spent a lot of time with my daughter,” Chad explained. “They were the same age and Chloe was devastated.

So, I wanted to do something nice in Kaitlynn’s memory.”

Coker decided to build a permanent

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structure at the fairgrounds for the horse shows, in honor of Kaitlynn’s equestrian skills and to benefit 4-H and the Horse Development Council. Initially, the Cokers planned to fund the project themselves.

But as soon as word got out, donations from local businesses and individuals began pouring in, to the tune of over $12,000.

Chad and his son Tyler began working on the memorial last fall. They had nearly completed it when the COVID pandemic hit. With last year’s fair going virtual, the building stood empty. But this year, the 24 x 24-foot structure is open and, excuse the expression, chomping at the bit for action.

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“It’s beautiful,” enthuses Paul Erickson, Oceana County Agricultural Society President. “It’s completely finished and air conditioned. It sits at our large arena, and we’ve used it for two horse shows already.

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Harness racing returns for two exciting afternoons

By Andy Roberts

Herald-Journal Writer

Harness racing is back at the Oceana County Fair grandstand this year, with races set for Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 23-24.

The races were one of the few fair events that were held last year amid the COVID-19 pandemic, albeit without any fans permitted. This year, those restrictions have been removed, and as a result, the races will be staged later in the day to hopefully attract more visitors. Race time is 4 p.m. each day.

The fair site listed harness racing on Thursday, Aug. 26 as well, but fair board president Paul Erickson confirmed that that was a mistake and no racing will be held that day.

Erickson said harness racers are excited to return to the county fairgrounds, especially after scheduled events last week in Ludington were washed out by the heavy rain.

“Our track has been in excellent condition,” Erickson said.

“They’re definitely looking forward to racing at our fairgrounds.”

Erickson did not yet have a full account of the races that will occur next week at press time, but expects a full slate of races in both the colt stakes and the overnight division. Colt stakes races involve horses below four years of age, with overnight races spotlighting older horses. The bulk of the prize money handed out comes in the colt stakes races. Last year, about $40,000 in purses were awarded in the harness events despite not having any fans in the stands.

The sport of harness racing, Erickson said, “is holding its own” on the state scene despite not being the spotlight sport it once was in the days when horses were the primary mode of transportation.

“Oddly enough, the reason this track is here in Michigan, in Hart, is because of a man named Samuel Brown,” Erickson said prior to last year’s races at the fairgrounds. “Samuel Brown was a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln’s and he settled in Muskegon. He’s responsible for building the railroad

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to Pentwater and plotting the village of Shelby. He owned a home west of Hart and raced harness throughout the nation. He did have some national prize winners, and that would’ve been back in the 1890s.”

The fairgrounds races keep the sport alive. There is one major harness racing track in the state, at Northville Downs, but Erickson wants to see races all over the state as well, and holding them at the fairgrounds accomplishes that goal. He believes the Oceana fairgrounds track to be one of the best in the state.

“At our fairgrounds, with our 150th anniversary, we’ve had harness racing in our driving parks for all those 150 years,” Erickson said. “It’s nothing new, harness racing, and we’re trying to keep it alive and more vibrant. “(We hope to see) a more diverse crowd, a younger crowd, that takes interest in a time-honored sport that’s been in play since prior to automobiles.”

Andy Roberts • Herald-Journal file photos

Two exciting days of harness racing were part of the few events at last year’s 149th Oceana County Fair.

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Over 44 Years Experience The 150th Oceana County Fair

e

110-year-old grandstand undergoes $50,000 renovation

By McKenna Golat

Herald-Journal Intern

The Oceana County Fairground grandstand renovation is set to be finished in time for the 150th fair this week.

Through donations and other fundraising efforts, $50,000 was raised to renovate the grandstand. The building was used for storage until recently. Before it was used for storage, the building was used to house racehorses and other animals. Paul Erickson, president of the Oceana County Agricultural Society, said he is proud the grandstand is reopening, especially in time for the 150th Oceana County Fair.

“It feels great to reopen it,” he said. “It’s a very historic, beautiful construction.”

So far, renovators have replaced the grandstand’s old siding material. Structural dam-

age in the 110-year-old posts were also addressed in the renovation. All of the vendor windows, such as the Knights of Columbus, American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, will all be replaced and repaired.

Soon, the north side of the grandstands will be open to the public as well. This area has not been available for public use in 75 years.

“We’re cleaning it out, we’re sweeping it out and we want to make it a people’s space,” Erickson said.

On the first Tuesday of the fair, a talent show emceed by Edgar Struble will be hosted at the grandstands. Additionally, there will be a 150th anniversary dedication at the grandstands on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

70% OF JOBS WILL REQUIRE EDUCATION AFTER HIGH SCHOOL BY 2020

McKenna Golat • Oceana’s Herald-Journal

Renovation work on the grandstands nears completion, and is set to be ready by the time the 150th Oceana County Fair begins.

By WHICH 2025 64% jobs in West Michigan will require education beyond high school!

PATHofWILL YOU CHOOSE?

Dear Parents,

High school is an exciting time! Your child may be adjusting to a new school, new teachers, a harder class schedule, more homework, new friends and becoming more independent. Your child still needs your help, involvement and support. Parents, grandparents, and other caring adults play a critical role in a child’s education.

o

Together, you can share these important goals to help them succeed this year and beyond towards a career after high school.

In today’s world education after high school is becoming a necessity for career-track jobs that pay a living wage and provide opportunity for promotion. College isn’t limited to four-year s… d for universities. High quality certificates, skilled Did tter you know that numerous studies identify you as the single most important factor in your child’s trades training, degree programs at community decision to go to college? Regardless of whether colleges, and technical schools are great routes through college to prepare for a career. or not you attended college, your consistent and unwavering reinforcement of the importance of You are not in this alone — it’s really a team lifelong learning is the greatest factor in a child’s effort! You play a critical role in helping your decision-making process. student put together the team when planning for college! Help expand the amount of adults in your or s, You can help your teen succeed by taking time student’s life who can help. Encourage them to talk hers, to therlearn about college and financial planning; about their goals with parents/guardians, other including understanding the process, meeting family members, teachers, coaches, guidance County encourages all students deadlines, and talking to the right people. counselors, and/orOceana religious leaders.

Encourage your student to participate www.oceanacan.org in annual opportunities • 231-869-3357 in the Oceana Community!

The 150thavailable Oceana Information at yourCounty Fair

counselor’s office and www.oceanacan.org

• Job Shadow Opportunities “Students in the Workplace”

to pursue and complete education and training beyond high school to help alleviate poverty, build and sustain a vibrant economy, and ensure global competitiveness within our local workforce.

College enables your student to:

• Earn more money and gain financial security • Find a greater range and number of job opportunities

• Expand knowledge and skills to be successful in our complex world • Allow expression of thoughts clearly in speech

Choosing a Career KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE & ENJOY WHAT YOU DO

Consider yourThink strengths, values, personality about your passions, likes, and dislikes. Don’t limit thinking type, and dislikes – including in schoolwork, to just schoolwork but also think about or household extracurricular andextracurricular household activities – to activities. This will help you to choose a bestchoose fit career path. a career that you will enjoy.

Education pays off; it’s a long term investment and you may need to borrow money. It’s recommended that you don’t borrow more than the starting annual salary of the career you pursue.

CONSIDER YOUR STUDENT LOAN DEBT -TO-INCOME RATIO

Studies prove education does pay; however, it is a longterm investment and you may need to borrow money.

Financial experts recommend that you limit your debt to no more than 15-20% of your take-home pay. Research your potential major and career online to investigate what one may make and compare this to what college will cost you.

KNOW THE JOB MARKET

When looking possible careerscareers take a take lookaatlook the Whenatlooking at possible at the projected growth and demand along projected growth and demand of the field, shared with current unemployment trends. The US of Labor keepssure a good handbook by the US Department Dept of Labor, to make there will be where you can check here: https://www.bls. a job for you when you finish! gov/ooh/most-new-jobs.htm

IT'S NOT A RESTOF-LIFE DECISION

a major training Choosing a majorChoosing does not lockoryou into aoption does not lock you into a career for the career for the rest of your life.

A credential rest of your life. A credential equips a desirable set of skills and equips you with you the with skills and abilities to apply abilities that can be applied to any to many jobs and number preparesof employment you for lifelong learning. opportunities!

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 13

The 150th Oceana County 150th Oceana County Fair Gate Admission: $5 per person Children under 5 free Free parking Handicap parking must have Department of Motor Vehicle plate or placard (window display) Fair hours 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Midway and rides

by Elliott’s amusements www.elliottsamusements.com

Wednesday, Aug. 18 to Saturday, Aug. 21

• Midway/rides open at 2 p.m. (Wednesday & Thursday, Aug. 18-19) Special ~ $10 armband will let you ride from 2-6 p.m. An additional $15 armband will let you ride from 6 p.m. to closing.

• Midway/rides open at 1 p.m. (Friday & Saturday, Aug. 20 & 21) Special ~ $10 armband will let you ride from 2-6 p.m. An additional $15 armband will let you ride from 6 p.m. to closing. Aug. 21 - armband special - $20 armband will let you ride all day until closing.

• Individual ride tickets will be available.

Page 14 • Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021

Unauthorized animals and/or pets Wednesday, Aug. 25 not allowed on the fairgrounds at Senior Citizen Day anytime except in designated areas • Senior citizens admitted free until 2 only, with fair board permission, p.m. with the exception of leader/service • Midway opens at 2 p.m. Special ~ $10 dogs. armband will let you ride from 2-6 p.m. An additional $12 armband will let you ride Midway/rides, closed Aug. 22-23 from 6 p.m. to closing.

• Individual Ride Tickets will be available.

Advanced tickets and info available • 8 a.m. –Swine Showmanship, Breeding at www.elliotsamusements.com & 4-H Market Classes; Hog/Lamb/Goat Barn Small Indoor Arena Monday, Aug. 23 • 8:30 a.m. – Beef Showmanship, Breed • 4 p.m.—Harness Horse Races, free & 4-H Market Classes grandstand Large Arena: • 6 p.m.—Work Bee—4-H Youth in barns • 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Youth & Educational Building Judging Tuesday, Aug. 24 • All entered exhibits in 4-H/Youth & EdEntry Day ucational (Adult) Building; (building closed • All entries must be entered by 5 p.m. until 3 p.m. during judging) • 4 p.m.—Harness Horse Races, free • 1 p.m. – Draft Horse Halter/Ponies, grandstand Mules & Cross Classes—Large Arena • Midway opens—5 p.m. to closing • 2 p.m.—Saddle Horse Showmanship & • Free gate admission ~ Special $12 armHalter Classes -Large Arena band will let you ride from 5 p.m. to clos• 4 p.m. – Sheep Showmanship, Breeding. ing & 4-H Market Classes, Hog/Lamb/ • Individual ride tickets will be available.

Goat Barn Small Indoor Arena 6 p.m.—Mini • 7 p.m.—Tuesday Night Talent, grandHorse Driving Classes stand. Hosted by Edgar Struble, musical di• 6:30 p.m. – Draft Horse Driving Classes rector/instrumentalist.

Large Arena Grandstand Admission: • 7 p.m.— 150th Oceana County Fair CelAdults - $10 per person ebration & Reception ~ Grandstand (free Children 12 and under - free grandstand admission).

The 150th Oceana County Fair

Fair Schedule of events Thursday, Aug. 26

• Midway opens at 2 p.m.; Special ~ $10 armband will let you ride from 2-6 p.m. An additional $15 armband will let you ride from 6 p.m. to closing.

• Individual Ride Tickets will be available.

• 11:30 a.m.– 1 p.m.– accommodations for those with disabilities will be provided during this time, including free gate and free rides.

• 9 a.m. – English Performance Classes – 4-H & Open—Infield Arena • 9 a.m. – Dairy Cattle Judging - 4-H & Open—Large Arena • 9 a.m. – Goat 4-H & Open Showmanship, Breed & 4-H Market Classes • Hog/Lamb/Goat Barn Small Indoor Arena 10 a.m.– Rabbit 4-H & Open Showmanship, Breeds & 4-H Market Classes - Rabbit & Poultry Barn • 6:45 p.m. – Presentation of Oceana 4-H Ambassadors, grandstand (free grandstand) • 7 p.m. – 4-H Market Livestock Auction - grandstand (free grandstand)

Friday, Aug. 27

Youth Day Special Ride Prices • Midway opens at 1 p.m. Special ~ $10 armband will let you ride from 1-6 p.m. An additional $15 arm band will let you ride from 6 p.m. to closing. *Individual Ride Tickets will be available.

The 150th Oceana County Fair

• 9 a.m. -Western Riding Classes 4-H & Open -Infield Arena • 9 a.m. – Poultry 4-H & Open Showmanship -Rabbit & Poultry Barn • Noon– 4 p.m. — Horse Trail Class (near infield arena) • 2 p.m.—Heavyweight Horse Pulling Free Grandstand • 4 p.m.– Cow Trail Classes/Costume Class Large Arena • 5:30 p.m. – Grandstand opens, ticket sales begin • 6:45 p.m. – Parade of horse breeds Large arena • 7 p.m. – Horse Costume Class Large arena • 7 p.m.—West Michigan Pullers Tractor Pull, local farm tractors.

Grandstand Admission: Adults – $10 Children 12 and under – $5.

Tractor Pull Events: 1. 6500# Light Limited Super Stock Tractors 2. 6200# Modified Gas Trucks 3. 9300# Super Farm Tractor 4 8000# Hot Diesel Trucks 5. 8200# Street Diesel Trucks 6. 8200# Pro Street Diesel Trucks 7. 12000# Field Farm Tractors More information available at: www.mttpa.com • 7:15 p.m. Miniature Horse Obstacle Class Large arena

Saturday, Aug. 28

Final day of fair • Midway opens at 1 p.m.; Special ~ $20 armband will let you ride all day until closing.

• Individual Ride Tickets will be available • 10 a.m. –Grand Slam Showmanship Rabbit/Poultry Barn • 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. —Bump N Run Off Road Derby followed by Demolition Derby • Small Mod front wheel drive (fwd), Small Stock fwd, Small Stock Youth fwd, Small Stock Powder Puff, Powerwheels $40 entry car & driver ~$20 pit passes all ages • Big car motor swap, Big bonestock 1/2 ton trucks Small Car Gut n Go fwd, Mini van Gut n Go fwd, Small trucks & SUVs, $40 entry car & driver ~$20 pit passes all ages Hosted by: T-N-T Demolition Derby tntdemoderby.com.

Grandstand Admission: Adults - $20 (covers both events) Children 12 & under - $10 (covers both events) Tickets sales—2 p.m.

• 5 p.m. – 4-H Small Market & Junior Market Auctions - Large Arena

~ DAILY ~

• Free transportation to and from the parking area.

• Hundreds of exhibits, trophies & ribbons on display in buildings .

• Commercial building open from noon – 10 p.m.

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 15

150th Oceana County Fair to have the midway open for 2 weeks

By McKenna Golat

Herald-Journal Intern

The 150th Oceana County Fair will see the midway be open for two weeks instead of the usual one.

After a year of cancellations due to COVID-19, the Oceana County Fair is back with the typical fair favorites and some new attractions. With the midway being open for two weeks this year, the Oceana County Agricultural Society decided to split up the attractions. The first week will be a carnival week with carnival games, rides and food.

The next week will be a typical fair week with animal attractions, the 4-H auction and more rides. Paul Erickson, president of the Oceana County Agricultural Society, said he is excited to see how this year’s fair will turn out.

“We’re very excited to get back to some normalcy for our fair families, and to have a successful 150th anniversary celebration,” he said.

The midway attractions are provided by Elliott’s Amusements from Mason. Erickson said the midway being open for two weeks

• Herald-Journal file photos

will allow visitors the opportunity to get some more vacation time in before the school year begins. Everything from past fairs, like the Ferris wheel, Lion’s hot beef sandwiches and the West Michigan Pullers Tractor Show, will be present at the Fair.

“The midway will give people the option to go down and do rides and do the normal games and stuff that you’d see at the typical county fair,” Erickson said.

The Oceana County Fair begins Wednesday, Aug. 18. The midway will open at 2 p.m.

Congratulations to the Oceana County Fair on 150 Years!

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4-H participation down, but optimism up for this year’s Fair Natalie S. Holmstrom Beacon Writer

Local 4-H groups are preparing for this year’s Oceana County Fair, which has a large lineup of events for this skilled subset of children. Many will travel to the fair in hopes of purchasing livestock to support 4-H. The 4-H organization specializes in building practical skills and youth development in its participants. There are many aspects of this organization, many of which have been showcased at fairs year after year.

Last year, when the pandemic halted the 4-H events, the Oceana County 4-H extension had a virtual fair. This included a horse show, livestock shows, and auctions, according to the Oceana County 4-H program Coordinator Sarah Schaner.

The Oceana County Fair brings the 4-H participants back to normality, as the schedule shows a vast amount of events for the organization. Showmanship competitions, auctions, and learning events will be offered at this year’s fair.

These events will begin Monday, Aug. 23 and will continue through the end of the fair.

Of the 350 4-H youth that are involved with the Oceana During and before the livestock auctions that take place 4-H extension, about 300 will participate in the fair. This is at the fair, the 4-H children must follow strict regulations lower than past years. The number of youth involved with based on their animal. This can be rabbits, dairy cattle, the 4-H organization has gone down about 20 percent, ac- swine, sheep, and more! cording to Schaner.

Many people try to show their support to the local 4-H,

Proud supporters of the 4-H youth programs and Oceana County Fair

• Herald-Journal file photos

including John Dahl of Tri-County Feeds, who has been purchasing livestock for 28 years. Each year, there are different pricing ranges on the livestock, but Dahl does his best to support, usually purchasing anywhere from one to four animals each year.

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The 150th Oceana County Fair

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Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 19

Oceana set to ‘rock’ during TNT Demolition Derby

By Andy Roberts

Herald-Journal Writer

After being forced off the track by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, TNT Demolition Derby, based in Scottville, is thrilled to be returning to the Oceana County Fairgrounds for two big shows the Saturday night of the fair.

The shows will begin at 3 p.m. with the Bump-n-Run OffRoad Derby, which is a series of races where drivers are permitted to physically take out their competitors in pursuit of first place. Following the Bump-n-Run events, a more traditional demolition derby - last car standing wins - will cap the evening with a scheduled 7 p.m. start.

Ticket prices in the grandstand for the derby will be $20 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. Tickets are good for both halves of the derby show.

Todd Sorensen, owner of the TNT Demolition Derby, said he and drivers alike are fired up to return to the track this year.

“The drivers have been crazy excited,” Sorensen said. “The events we’ve put on so far this year, at a Saturday night show, the average is 97 cars. We’re averaging 40 to 60 on weekdays. (The fair show) will be pretty big.”

Two years ago, the demolition derby shows began at 7, and Sorensen said the action lasted until 1 a.m. That led to the decision to get things going a little earlier in the day this time around so that spectators won’t have to be there until the wee hours to get their money’s worth.

“The place was packed. It was sold out,” Sorensen said of the 2019 shows. “They said they hadn’t been sold out in years. We’re preparing for that again, since we didn’t have one last year. A lot of the fairs this year, their grandstand shows have been crazy packed, especially on weekdays, which is a wonderful thing. We wanted to split them up so all the fans get to see their cars.”

And there will be no shortage of cars to see, with events being held in several different divisions. Four heats of stock class racing are expected, as are four heats of modified class.

There will also be a heat each of youth and powder-puff divisions, and consolation races to give second chances to backof-the-pack finishers in early heats.

Due to how close the fair’s grandstands are to the action,

Sorensen said fans will get a better show at the fair than they would at most other places.

“The Oceana Fair (has) a smaller track, but there’s a lot of action,” Sorensen said. “At other fairs, you’re 50 to 100 feet away. That’s why the spectators and drivers love that place.

The drivers see fans cheering them on and the fans can be right there to cheer their favorite driver.”

In both the Bump-n-Run and demolition derby events, there will be money and trophies awarded. It’s unknown exactly how much cash will be handed out - it’s determined by how many cars compete - but Sorensen said at the TNT races, they average somewhere between $4,000 and $5,000 in payouts per night.

The fairgrounds will also be the only place in the county to see a demolition derby this summer Winston Speedway in Rothbury used to have demolition derby races, but hasn’t had them this year because those events tear up the track.

Sorensen credited fair board President Paul Erickson for

Congratulations on 150 Years!

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helping make the show, and the fair at large, a success. Everyone is looking forward to the first collision on the 21st, with a full grandstand.

“We’re preparing for a big show,” Sorensen said. “I’ve been in the business for 10 years and we’ve really grown. I lived in Oceana County for almost 10 years and I really enjoy the area...Great teamwork at the Oceana Fair.

“Oceana will rock on that Saturday.”

• Herald-Journal file photo and contributed photo

CONGRATS TO THE OCEANA COUNTY FAIR ON

150 YEARS!

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Two colorful, vintage posters detail a past international demolition derby and an international motor maniacs thrill show from previous Oceana County Fairs.

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West Michigan Pullers bring the thrills at the Fair

By Sharon Hallack Contributing Writer

Coming back for their 21st year, the West Michigan Pullers will host its annual truck and tractor pull Friday, Aug. 27, 2021 at the Oceana County Fairgrounds beginning at 7 p.m. Admission will be $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. A typical event lasts between two and two and a half hours.

“Last year was definitely difficult, as far as being able to hold events during the pandemic. It’s been great to be out and enjoying our sport once again. The Oceana County Fair pull will be our 14th event this year. We invite anyone who’s interested in pulling or watching to join us,”said Jarrod Glover, current president of the WMP. Local participation on Friday, Aug. 27 is available and welcome; membership in the WMP association is not a requirement for the event. Those interested in pulling should

arrive at the fairgrounds by 5 p.m. to be assigned to a pulling class. A $50 fee will help cover some of the club’s expenses like insurance and prize money.

“For those unfamiliar with how a truck/ tractor pull works; vehicles are divided into nine different classes. Anywhere from lightweight street trucks and farm tractors, all the way to vehicles that are completely built and dedicated to pulling on the national scale - Light Limited Super Stock Tractors, Modified Gas Trucks, Super Farm Tractors, Hot Diesel Trucks, Street Diesel Trucks, Pro Street Diesel Trucks, Field Farm Tractors, 2Hot2Farm and Altered Semi Trucks. On an average we have between 45-60 pullers at one of our pulls. The basic pulling track is 300 feet long and 35 feet wide. Within each of the classes, sets of weights are added to a sled that each vehicle has to hook on to and pull. The weights are appropriate for each size/type of rig and each driver gets one

pull. As they go down the track the weights in the sled moves forward making it that much harder to pull. The driver who pulls the farthest is the winner. The fairgrounds has a nice track with a lot of play in it. In preparation for our event , it will be disked down about 18 inches and watered to build up moisture in the clay, which will create the traction pullers need,” said Glover.

People can follow the West Michigan Pullers on Facebook or visit their website at www.wmpullers.com The West Michigan

Pullers board includes President - Jarrod Glover, Vice President - Ben Wolfsen, Treasurer - Christian Koning, Secretary - open position and Trustees - Adam Schade, Eric Voelker and Brian Kalmon.

• Herald-Journal file photos and contributed photo

Congratulations to the Oceana County Fair on 150 Years!

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Truck and Tractor Classes and Pullers Glossary

Reprinted from the West Michigan Pullers 2019 Pullers Program

• Field Farm Tractors - Every farmer and tractor lover in the stands will appreciate this class. Weighing 12,500 pounds, this is our heaviest class. By limiting the speed and RPM, we are able to make it a “drivers’ class and keep the action exciting at the end of the track.

• Modified Gas Trucks - Always a staple of truck pulling, these trucks look like what many have fond memories of. These trucks are built for one thing and one thing only - pulling! Most of these trucks have been painstakingly restored to look like something you would see in a car show. The power plants in these beasts are stock appearing, but have plenty of power to throw dirt in the air.

• Pro Street Diesel Trucks - An intermediate class for diesel pickups. Drivers are allowed to use hanging weight and suspension modifications to improve the performance of the truck, but these still must be street legal trucks. These trucks feature a direct bolt on turbo charger with a maximum 2.6” in-

ducer. Many of these trucks are still used for daily use when not pulling.

• Light Limited Super Stock Tractors - The only tractor class that you will have Smoker in with Alcohol burning tractors. This group of competitors comes out with more color in their class than any other. Fords will run right with the John Deeres and Internationals in this class, with an Oliver in the fight too. Because of their light weight, almost every night there is a wild ride or two.

• Hot Diesel Trucks - Heavily modified engines in pickup bodies make this class one of the most exciting to watch. Using multiturbo diesel engines and drivelines strong enough to handle a monster truck, these trucks promise to keep you on the edge of your seat cheering for your favorite!

Super Farm Tractors - With smoke shooting over 100 feet into the air from these tractors, it doesn’t take long for people all around to sit up and take notice. This class of pulling is the largest in the country. We, in Michigan, are lucky to have some of the best running tractors in the country. You can find some of these pullers winning at a national event.

Words/phrases used at Pulls

• Boost - Air pressure generated by turbos or superchargers • Diesel - An engine that ignites the fuel by the heat of compression, rather than by spark plugs • Drop the Hammer - Hitting the throttle hard • Full Pull - Pulling the entire length of the track • Heavy on the Nose - Improper weight balance on a tractor, either too light on the front, resulting in an uncontrollable wheelie, or too heavy on the front, resulting in plowing and buzzing the tires.

• Hole Shot - Getting the jump off the line, an excellent start • Horsepower - The ability to do a specific amount of work during a specific amount of time and over a specific distance. Abbreviated HP • Modified - Tractor using any combination of engines, transmission and final drive • Out of the Gate - A full pull, going the entire length of the track

• Power Track - A track made with the combination of water and clay to pack, requiring a lot of power from the tractor to pull the transfer • Pro Stock - A stock tractor with limited alterations to increase power • Pull-Off - A second run with a heavier sled for the 2 or more vehicles that make full pulls • Sled - Weight transfer machine • Spotting the Sled - Puller choosing where the sled will sit along the start line for his pull • Super Stocker - Stock tractor with alterations to achieve increased power • Test Puller - First puller of each class to check sled gear and weight, has option of repulling or dropping to third position • Turbine - An engine, using the exploding fuel to drive rotary fan blades, creating the turning power of the engine, as in aircraft jet engines • Turbo - Turbocharger (an exhaust powered compressor adding power to the basic engine) • Wheelie - Lifting the front wheels a desired amount

Congratulations to the Oceana County Fair on 150 Years!

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Seasoned with memories - from Fiske Fries

By Mary Beth Crain Contributing Writer

Ask anyone what the best thing is about the Oceana County Fair and the answer will most likely be, “The food!” After all, what’s a fair without all those wonderful edibles like elephant ears, corn dogs, sno cones, fries and all the other treats we look forward to all year?

Oh sure, we might be able to find them in other places. But they’ll never taste the same.

Fair food is just plain one-of-a-kind. Maybe that’s because it’s seasoned with some of our best memories.

The good news is, all your favorites will be back this year. “With the pandemic and all, we weren’t sure who would still be available,” says fair President Paul Erickson. “But it looks like everyone will be there. Fiske Fries, which has been around since 1938— you’d be amazed to know how many people have been asking if they’ll be back. The taffy, the fish and onion rings, the fresh lemonade, the pizza…Hector Rosales, with the Mexican food that’s been a staple for years, is on—it’s so good! Billy Bayou and his root beer stand, the Knights of Columbus, with their pulled pork, and of course, the Lion’s Club and Don

Hansen’s Original Hot Beef—people always line up for that.”

Don, who turned 93 Aug. 10, is still cooking up that hot beef after some 15 years. It’s so delicious that many people come to the fair just to get their hot beef fix. What makes it so special? Do we dare ask?

“There’s no secret,” Don laughs. “I’ll give out the recipe to anyone. I use a shoulder cut because it has a lot of fat. I season it with liquid beef, salt, and garlic, and cook it until I can break it apart with my spoon. Then I take it out and put a lot of pepper in it—a lot!

When I’m grinding it, I put in the juice, so it won’t be dry. Then when they’re cooking it at the booth after it’s been defrosted, they add more juice.”

The result is, indeed, the moistest, tastiest beef sandwich you’ll ever dig your teeth into.

And Don makes a daunting amount of the stuff.

“We start with 500 pounds of beef. It cooks down to, oh, 400 pounds. At the last fair, they sold $18,000 worth of sandwiches.”

For years, the hot beef sandwich was only $5. But this year, thanks to the skyrocketing cost of beef and other goods, the Lions have

Congratulations on 150 Years!

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been forced to raise prices.

“The hot beef has gone up to $6,” says Jim Evans, Lion’s Club secretary and former president. “And we’ve had to raise the brats from $3 to $4. But we’re still only charging $1 for the hot dogs. And the soda and chips are also only $1. We want to be able to offer an economical meal to a family. That makes us feel good.”

The Lion’s Club booth can always be counted on to pull in the dough. “It’s our

biggest fundraiser of the year,” Evans notes.

“We distribute money to agencies throughout the county.”

And have you ever wondered just what’s behind all those food booths owned and operated by the carnival amusements industry?

“Three main companies deliver food to us several times a week,” says Debbie Elliott, owner, with her husband Tracy, of Elliott’s Amusements, which provides everything from food to rides and games for 25 fairs

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to deep-fried Oreos, fair food is calling throughout Michigan. “We have five trailers that travel with us, along with 16 people. We have to carry living quarters for all of them.

Plus supplies and refrigerators. Then there’s another box truck that carries the picnic tables and all the auxiliary stuff that goes with the food.”

Elliott has the carnival spirit in her blood.

“Tracy and I have been in the business our whole lives,” she says. “My mom and dad were in the gaming business and traveled with the carnival in Minnesota. Tracy’s dad owned Elliott’s Amusement Company. He partnered with Glenn Wade and Red Wood.

We were with Wade Shows until we went out on our own in 2001.”

While you may think nothing of going up to one of Elliott’s booths and getting an elephant ear or a funnel cake, the amount of time and effort that goes into that treat is somewhat mind-boggling.

“Most of our liability and problems aren’t on the active midway, but in transportation,” explains Debbie. “We bring 60 trailer loads of food, rides and other things. While I’m helping with setup and operations, my hus-

band has to order tires, get new starters and radiators, and fix vehicles because along the route, tires wear out and all sorts of things break down. We need a lot of CDC drivers but it’s hard to get them because it’s only one day a week. So we’ll use drivers from Walmart or a similar company who can work weekends.”

Elliott’s makes the cotton candy, caramel apples, elephant ears, corn dogs, funnel cakes you see at the fair. They also have the sausage wagon, the lemonade trailer and other favorites.

“Everything is prepared right in the wagons,” Debbie proudly notes. “We use fresh ingredients. For instance, we make our own batter for our funnel cakes and elephant ears.

No mixes. We cook the sausage and peppers right on the griddle. We keep everything as fresh as possible.”

This year, Debbie looks forward to a bangup season. “Everywhere we go, we’re up 50, 60, 70 percent. People have a little extra money, and they want out. They’re sick of being cooped up. Last year the industry was virtually closed, and this year we’re making

up for it.”

But even though customers are at an alltime high, so are supply prices. “Prices shot up in the key goods,” Debbie says. “Paper cups and cooking oil have really gone through the roof—and it’s hard to find those items.”

Needless to say, running a carnival company is a 24-7 job. But Debbie Elliott is used to it. And loves it.

“What’s not to love?” she laughs. “I love that we can come to town and help different organizations looking to raise money.

And on a Saturday night, when everything’s ‘ginning’, you get an adrenaline rush like no other. Everybody’s happy, everybody’s having fun. And you’re making it happen.

“I also love the camaraderie. The kids, the employees connect like family. They live six-and-a-half months together and form these friendships and stay connected. I love my business. I love the industry, I love the people. And I love the Oceana County Fair!

Everyone on my crew says it’s their favorite fair. The trees and the shade make it a wonderful place to work.”

And what, by the way, is her favorite fair food?

“The deep fried Oreos,” she promptly replies.

Deep fried Oreos? Like, sugar and fat blitz to the max?

“Oh, they’re fantastic,” she insists. “Sooo good!”

Indeed, a photo on Elliott’s website does look awfully good. The dessert is essentially a delicious-looking puffy fried pastry surrounding a thick Oreo cookie.

It might be a diabetic’s last meal. But what a way to go!

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The 150th Oceana County Fair

Oceana’s Herald-Journal • Aug. 19, 2021 • Page 25

• Herald-Journal files

Fairs of yesteryear

Two editions of The Hart Journal showcase the 60th and 70th Oceana County Fair from 1931 and 1941, respectively. The schedule for the 60th Oceana County Fair included baseball games and vaudeville acts, musical performances, running races and much more.

The drawing for the 70th Fair, at right, helped to preview that year’s fair on the front page of The Hart Journal.

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The 150th Oceana County Fair