e Northwest Washington Fair Association is a 501(c)(3) non-pro t organization.
e Mission of the Northwest Washington Fair is to provide:
• education regarding agriculture—past, present and future
• experiences with positive competition
• enjoyment of wholesome entertainment, social interactions and lasting memories
e Northwest Washington Fair Association will organize an annual Fair that will promote an appreciation for our agricultural heritage, provide education about the role agriculture plays in life today while providing youth with a hands on experience. e annual fair will be a social gathering place where family values will be honored and individuals of all ages will be entertained. e mission of the association will further be accomplished by generating revenue via rental of the facilities during the o -season, developing promotional activities to encourage o -season usage, and promoting agriculture as a way of life.
e Northwest Washington Fair Association is an organization in which the sta , Board of Directors, association members, volunteers, contributors, and Whatcom County citizens all have a sense of ownership and pride.
First Aid:
Located in BP Place.
♿Wheelchair Rentals:
Available at Gate 1 inside the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion.
ATM
Cash Machines:
Located next to the Grandstand Ticket Booth and across from Guest Services.
RRestrooms:
Banner Bank Festival Stage
WECU Expo Building
Clock Tower
BP Place
Henry Jansen Agricultural Center
Salish Wealth Management Horse Barn Carnival
A message from the manager of the Northwest Washington Fair
I am excited to welcome you to the 2024 Northwest Washington Fair.
When you enter the fairgrounds, I hope you make memories. I personally have a lifetime of memories I made at the fair, starting when I was a 4-H exhibitor, FFA member, and continuing through my time as a volunteer and now as an employee.
It is my privilege to work with the fair sta to create 10 days of activities that focus on our core
values as an organization: education, agriculture, youth, competition and entertainment.
Take some time to see what a talented community we are all part of while exploring the still life and animal projects entered by individuals just like you and I.
Stop by and learn all you can imagine about reptiles at the reptile show, be awed by the Flying Fools High Dive and laugh with the cartoon poodles.
As you explore the fair
you will be greeted by our year-round and seasonal sta as well as volunteers, all who play important roles in making the 10 days of fair a positive experience.
Feel free to ask them questions as they are the ultimate fair fans and love nothing more than to talk about the fair with visitors.
I hope you can visit much-loved traditional parts of the fair, as well as experience something new.
Thank you for visiting
the Northwest Washington Fair.
Fair Magazine publisher’s welcome
Dear Readers and Fairgoers,
For more than 100 years, the Lynden Tribune has proudly covered and reported on the Northwest Washington Fair.
I still remember many, many years ago tagging along with my dad Julian when members of the local business community volunteered their evenings painting and sprucing up the inside of the fair buildings along Front Street.
I will never forget the chuckles I received when I sat on one of the freshly painted benches. This edition of our
2024 Northwest Washington Fair Magazine is a celebration of the outstanding 10-day Whatcom County event hosted right here in our backyard.
It takes the dedicated
work of our entire Lynden Tribune & Print Co. sta to produce this awardwinning magazine which is produced in its entirety at our Lynden plant.
From the sta planning, selling of ads, writing stories, proofing copy, to the graphic design, printing and binding, the magazine is one of our proudest undertakings.
I would like to personally thank the business community for your amazing advertising support that allows us to publish a magazine of this quality.
And to our faithful readers, thank you for your continued support
as subscribers.
I would be remiss not to give a special shout out to Fair Manager Selena Burgess and her dedicated sta .
Thank you for working with the Tribune team to make the 2024 Northwest Washington Fair magazine a valuable and informative publication for the community.
Here’s to a wonderful and safe 2024 Northwest Washington Fair.
And to all the volunteers, and those behind the scene who help make the event run smoothly … a huge, huge thank you.
Michael D. Lewis Publisher
The Lynden Tribune team hopes you enjoy this year’s Northwest Washington Fair publication.
A lot of time and e ort went into bringing you a magazine the entire community can take pride in.
It is our pleasure and responsibility to capture more special moments for you this year.
Thank you for your continued support. Also thank you to everyone at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden for your collaborative e orts.
Thursday & Friday, August 8 & 9
D EMOLITION D ERBY
Get ready to rev your engines as the Demolition Derby makes a triumphant return to the 2024 Northwest Washington Fair.
For the fourth year in a row, the Northwest Washington Fair has two nights of high adrenaline, full contact demolition derby action.
An annual event, the Demolition Derby is the fair’s opening act as it was last year. At 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8 and again at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, the Northwest Washington Fair will host its annual Demolition Derby as part of the Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series.
Cost is $25-$35 per night, with Grandstand VIP seating at $99. Buy your tickets at nwwafair.com.
The Whatcom Demo Derby Club puts on the derby each year at the Northwest Washington Fair.
The Demo Derby Club boasts the largest prize pool on the West Coast.
See Demolition on 52
Saturday, August 10
Walker Hayes
With three studio albums under his belt, Walker Hayes is a successful country music recording artist.
At 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, Hayes will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series.
Hayes has released three studio albums: Reason to Rhyme (in 2011), Boom (2017) and Country Stu the Album (2022). Hayes also has charted multiple singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts; his highest-peaking is “Fancy Like,” which reached the No. 1 position on both charts between late 2021 and early 2022.
Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Hayes and his wife moved to Nashville in 2005 with hopes to get in the country music business. He landed a job writing songs for a Nashville
Country music recording artist Walker Hayes will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden on Saturday, Aug. 10 as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. Show starts at 7 p.m. (Photo above and on page 65 courtesy Walker Hayes. Photo on opposite page courtesy Northwest Washington Fair)
publishing company and then signed a contract with Mercury Records Nashville, then later moved to Capitol Records Nashville. In 2010, he released his first single, “Pants,” which
debuted at No. 60 on the Hot Country Songs charts dated for the week ending Sept. 18, 2010.
After losing his contract with Capitol Records, Hayes signed a
publishing and production deal with Shane McAnally and SMACK/RareSpark, through which he released two extended plays: 8Tracks Vol. 1 and 8Tracks Vol. 2. This was
followed by his first single for Monument Records, “You Broke Up with Me,” which appears on his first Monument album, Boom.
See Hayes on 65
Sunday, August 11
Banda Los Recoditos
Banda Los Recoditos is a Mexican band formed in Mazatlán, Sinaloa. Founded in 1989 by friends and family members of Banda El Recodo by Cruz Lizárraga, Banda Los Recoditos will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11 as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series.
Alfonso Lizárraga and Pancho Barraza, the band’s first vocalists, were two of the more than dozen band members to comprise the original incarnation of the band.
After releasing several albums, in 2010 the band released their album ¡Ando Bien Pedo!, featuring the single of the same title, which became
a number-one hit in the Billboard Hot Latin Songs chart.
Including their debut album, A Bailar de Caballito, in 1990, Banda Los Recoditos has recorded 33 albums. Their most recent is their 2023 album ¿En Qué Les Molesta?
The music of Los Recoditos is like most Sinaloan bands, featuring vocalists harmonizing to a third and high horn hits in the background.
Today, Banda Los Recoditos includes the following members: Freddy Alvarado, Jair Avilés, Marco “Zapata” Figueroa, Brahiton González, Rafael González, José Moisés Payan Herrera, Oracio Nieves, Cruz Lizárraga Osuna, Efraín Osuna, Brayan Ramirez, Santos De Jesús ‘Jeypi’
Pérez Roque, Poché Urías, Francisco Velarde and Daniel Velazco.
Order tickets for the Sunday, Aug. 11 show at nwwafair.com/p/tickets.
Tickets are $20-$25. However, tickets do not include gate admission unless you purchase VIP seating.
VIP experience includes the best seats in the house, premium parking, gate admission to the fair, full no host bar and dinner. Cost for VIP for this show is $99.
Purchase tickets at nwwafair. com/p/tickets.
For more about Banda Los Recoditos, visit them on Facebook: Banda Los Recoditos. Visit nwwafair.com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Monday & Tuesday, August 12 & 13
Lynden PRCA Rodeo
Welcome to the 19th annual Lynden PRCA Rodeo, where rodeo fans of all ages can enjoy two nights of the most exciting rodeo action around.
This year, the rodeo is Aug. 12-13.
Rodeo performances start at 7 p.m. All seating is festival seating. Cost is $25 per ticket, $149 for the Lynden PRCA Rodeo VIP Experience. Kids 12 and younger are $10.
Enter the show garden through the grandstands.
New this year to the rodeo, the Lynden PRCA welcomes Women’s Breakaway Roping, the fastest growing event.
Also new in 2024, all ro-
See Rodeo on 48
At the Lynden PRCA Rodeo, Aug. 12-13, rodeo fans of all ages can enjoy two nights of the most exciting rodeo action around. (Tribune file photos)
Monday & Tuesday, August 12 & 13
Lynden PRCA Rodeo
Wednesday, August 14
LEELAND
From Baytown, Texas, LEELAND is a Christian rock band made of lead singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leeland Mooring and guitarist and co-writer Casey Moore.
LEELAND came to the forefront of the worship music sphere in 2004 and debuted its first project in 2006.
Fast forward to now, after seven albums, four GRAMMY® nominations, and eight GMA Dove Award® nominations under their belts, LEELAND has become one of the most significant and standout voices in a new generation of worship music.
Their lives, ministry, and music are a true extension of their passion to simply worship God personally and in community.
At 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, LEELAND will perform at the Northwest
See LEELAND on 84
Christian artists LEELAND, at left and on the opposite page, will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden on Wednesday, Aug. 14 as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. Show starts at 7 p.m.
(All photos courtesy LEELAND)
Chris Janson
At 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, Chris Janson will perform at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series.
Janson has recorded three fulllength albums, “Buy Me a Boat,” “Everybody” and “Real Friends” through Warner Records Nashville, along with one extended play each for Bigger Picture Music Group, Columbia Records, and Warner Nashville.
A proud member of the Grand Ole Opry and multi-platinum songwriter and artist, Janson is part of country music’s new breed. In touch with the lighter side of life with self-penned No. 1’s “Fix A
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Drink,” “Good Vibes” and the four-times Platinum “Buy Me A Boat,” as well as the more thoughtful truths of “Done,” “Things You Can’t Live Without” and the CMA Song of the Year nominee and ACM Video of the Year “Drunk Girl.” Both “Boat” and “Girl” were named to the Nashville Songwriters Association International’s prestigious “Songs I Wish I’d Written” list.
Beyond his artistry is his live shows, where all that heart-on-the-four-wheeler songwriting meets the fans where they come to rock. Rolling Stone proclaimed him “a live legacy in the making,” and Janson is a frequent presence at the nation’s biggest country festivals, tours,
and unexpected sit-ins. For a man known for his outdoors lifestyle and collaborations with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, making music from his own life has established the harmonica-forward multiinstrumentalist the go-to guy for young country for the last decade. Janson’s Big Machine Label Group debut single, “All I Need Is You,” recently hit the No. 1 spot on the Country music charts (marking 5 career #1 hits) and his latest single “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get,” is the first release on the recently re-named Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment imprint.
Born in Missouri, Janson moved to Nashville after high school. In June 2009, Janson co-wrote and re-
corded two duets with Holly Williams on her album Here with Me: “I Hold On” and “A Love I Think Will Last.” In October, 2009, Janson signed to BNA Records and released his debut single, “’Til a Woman Comes Along,” in April 2010. The song debuted at No. 56 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts dated for the week ending May 1, 2010.
After BNA was restructured, Janson left the label, then co-wrote Tim McGraw’s 2012 single “Truck Yeah,” played harmonica on the track “Beer” from Lee Brice’s album “Hard 2 Love,” and wrote the title track to Justin Moore’s 2013 album O the Beaten Path.
In 2013, he signed to
Bigger Picture Music Group and released “Better I Don’t.” Janson wrote the song with his wife, Kelly, and Pat Bunch, and Keith Stegall produced it. “Better I Don’t” peaked at No. 40 on Country Airplay in mid-2013. A second single, “Cut Me Some Slack,” peaked at No. 60 before Bigger Picture closed in 2014. That same year, Columbia Records released Take It to the Bank, which included “Til a Woman Comes Along” and other songs that he had recorded while on BNA.
Janson self-released the single “Buy Me a Boat” in early 2015. The song debuted at No. 33 on Hot Country Songs after it received airplay on the Bobby Bones Show. It was
o cially released as a single via Warner Records Nashville in May 2015, and became Janson’s first top-5 hit by August 2015. The next month, Janson announced that his debut studio album (also titled “Buy Me a Boat”) would be released on Oct. 30. “Buy Me a Boat” peaked at No. 3 on Country Airplay and No. 1 on Mediabase. The album also includes the singles “Power of Positive Drinkin’” and “Holdin’ Her.” Also, in 2015, Janson co-wrote LoCash’s “I Love This Life.” Also, in 2016, Janson co-wrote Randy Houser’s “Song Number 7.”
In September 2017, Janson’s second album for Warner Nashville, “Everybody,” was released. Its lead single is “Fix a Drink,” which was followed in 2018 by “Drunk Girl.” His next album was 2019’s “Real Friends,” which account-
ed for the number-one singles “Good Vibes” and “Done.” Janson’s “All In” was his fourth and final album with Warner before starting his own imprint Harpeth 60 Records, with Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment in 2022.
Order tickets for the Thursday, Aug. 15 show at nwwafair. com/p/tickets. Tickets are $30-$55. However, tickets do not include gate admission unless you purchase VIP seating.
VIP experience includes the best seats in the house, premium parking, gate admission to the fair, full no host bar and dinner. Cost for VIP is $180. Purchase tickets at nwwafair. com/p/tickets.
For more about Chris Janson visit chrisjanson.com and on Facebook: Chris Janson. Visit nwwafair.com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Friday, August 16
Ace Frehley/Steven Adler
At 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, Northwest Washington Fair will present Ace Frehley performing Kiss hits and Steven Adler performing Guns N’ Roses hits as part of the Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment
series at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Frehley is the original lead guitarist, occasional lead vocalist and founding member of the rock band Kiss. The only thing more recognizable than Ace
Frehley’s signature Spaceman makeup is his guitar playing. Those thundering ri s and singable solos have enshrined him as one of the most influential, inspiring, and impactful musicians of all-time. Simply
put, rock ‘n’ roll and heavy metal wouldn’t sound, look, or feel the same without him.
Among hundreds of accolades, The Rock and Roll
Continued on 26
Friday, August 16
Ace Frehley/Steven Adler
Guitarist Ace Frehley, left, formerly of Kiss, and drummer Steven Adler, formerly of Guns N’ Roses, will perform on Aug. 16 at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden. (Photo above courtesy Northwest Washington Fair. All other photos of Ace Frehley courtesy Ace Frehley. All other photos of Steven Adler courtesy Steven Adler. )
Hall of Fame inducted him in 2014 as a co-founder and the original lead guitarist of Kiss. Guitar World named him in the Top 15 of its 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time and plugged the lead from “Shock Me” on the 50 Greatest Guitar Solos of All Time.
Magnifying the imprint of his catalog as a solo artist, Foo Fighters cut a fan favorite cover of “Ozone,” and he even jammed out “New York Groove” alongside The Roots on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The late Dimebag Darrell of Pantera proudly sported a tattoo of Frehley on his chest, while Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine celebrated him on X/Twitter as “My first guitar hero.”
Embedded in popular culture, he also, penned the New York Times bestselling memoir No Regrets, and packed venues everywhere on tour for decades.
However, the GRAMMY Award-nominated Bronxborn legend continues to elevate and electrify rock ‘n’ roll with his 10th fulllength solo o ering, 10,000 Volts [MNRK Heavy].
The record upholds an incredible legacy for Frehley, spanning 50-plus years in the limelight. Back in 1978, he delivered his solo debut, Ace Frehley. It reached platinum status and exploded as the highest-selling of the four Kiss solo albums in the Soundscan era. Pitchfork even retrospectively rated it a rare 8.5 score. During 1987, he dropped Frehley’s
Comet, followed by 2009’s Anomaly. In 2014, he made history once again. His Space Invader LP captured No. 9 on the Billboard 200 and emerged as the only solo album by a past or current Kiss member to reach the Top 10 on the chart.
Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Slash, Lita Ford, and John 5 jumped at the chance to collaborate with him on 2016’s Origins Vol. 1, bowing at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Hard Rock Albums Chart and in the Top 5 of the Billboard Top Rock Albums Chart. He notably maintained his momentum with Spaceman [2018] and Origins Vol. 2 [2020]. Applauding the latter, Forbes said the “idea of fun has always defined The Spaceman’s best work but
never more so than on the cover songs that make up the Origins releases.”
Jumpstarting his next chapter, he parlayed this energy into 10,000 Volts. He introduces this body of work with the first single and title track. A surging ri sets the tone for “10,000 Volts” as his swaggering delivery takes hold and never lets go. It culminates on the chantable chorus, “She hit me like 10,000 volts, when I saw her face,” giving way to a fret-burning guitar solo — of course. Then, there’s “Walkin’ On The Moon.” His voice rings out between towering distortion as a lovestruck hook echoes, “When I wake up, you’re all I see. You got me walkin’ on the moon.”
His string bends practically engages in a call-and-
response with the refrain, while another celestial solo resounds. A mean palmmuted chug underlines his pensive vocals on “Cherry Medicine” where he said, “I knew I had to change my ways for sure to keep you by my side.”
Elsewhere, he beams out an otherworldly sonic frequency of his own on “Up In The Sky.” He urges, “They’re up in the sky. Girl, I know what I saw. Can’t trust the news. Can’t trust the law.” A cinematic hum dissolves into melodic clean guitar on the instrumental finale “Stratosphere.” Frehley’s evocative playing channels epic emotion with one of his most stunning and lyrical lead lines to date.
In the end, Frehley doesn’t need any makeup,
because there’s nothing but uncontainable electricity at the heart of 10,000 Volts. As it turns out, the man who once sang “Shock Me” is as much of a livewire as ever in 2024 and beyond.
Steven Adler, best known as the founding drummer of Guns n’ Roses, one of the most influential, groundbreaking hard rock bands to emerge from the late-‘80s L.A. hard rock scene, has returned to pick up where he left o with his re-energized line up of musicians.
Adler was the drummer and co-songwriter of the hard rock band Guns N’ Roses, with whom he achieved worldwide success in the late 1980s.
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With more than 100 million records sold, Adler is considered one of rock’s most legendary and recognizable drummers.
• Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Guns N’ Roses in 2012.
•Performing songs from the debut Guns N’ Roses album “Appetite For Destruction.”
“Appetite For Destruction” features Adler’s signature groove and will forever be considered one of the greatest rock albums ever made.
Adler also recorded the album “GN’R Lies” and the track “Civil War” on the album “Use Your Illusion 2.”
In July 2010, Adler released his tell-all biography “My Appetite For Destruction — Sex, Drugs and Guns N’ Roses.” The book quickly
became a New York Times Best seller. In 2012, Guns N’ Roses were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, with more than 100 million records sold. Adler is considered one of rock’s most legendary and recognizable drummers.
Order tickets for the Friday, Aug. 16 show at nwwafair.com/p/tickets. Tickets are $30-$55. However, tickets do not include gate admission unless you purchase VIP seating.
VIP experience includes the best seats in the house, premium parking, gate admission to the fair, full no host bar and dinner. Cost for VIP is $180.
Purchase tickets at nwwafair.com/p/tickets. Visit nwwafair.com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Lynden Human Life
Saturday, August 17
Ludacris
At 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, rapper Ludacris will perform as part of the Bank of
At 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, rapper Ludacris will perform as part of the Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment series at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
The career of the multitalented Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges can best be described as remarkable. As a recording artist, he has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide, thanks to the blockbuster success of such singles as “Stand Up,” “Get Back,” “Southern Hospitality,” “Number One Spot,” “Money Maker” and “My Chick Bad.” All of these records were accompanied by ingenious videos that demonstrated Bridges’ far-reaching imagination, and his willingness to stretch the boundaries of what rap videos should look and feel like.
With an unrivaled match of lyrical acumen, wit, and imagery, Ludacris has solidified himself as one of music’s premier entertainers. His versatility and artistic complexity also enabled him to make a seamless transition to acting, including the fan favorite role of “Tej” in Universal Pictures’ box o ce phenomenon Fast & Furious franchise where he was introduced for the first time in 2003 in 2 Fast 2 Furious. He reprised his role of “Tej” for the seventh time in Fast X, which came out in theaters in 2023.
His other notable feature film credits include Garry Marshall’s ensemble comedy New Year’s Eve, Ivan Reitman’s romantic comedy, No Strings Attached, Paul Higgin’s Crash which received an Academy Award for Best Picture in 2006 and Hustle & Flow which earned Bridges a SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
Continued on 33
the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment series at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden. (Photos courtesy Ludacris)
As a father of four girls, his latest ventures fittingly include launching his educational platform devoted to the enrichment of children called KidNation.
In addition, Bridges created the animated series Karma’s World, which launched in the Top 10 in 42 countries on Netflix, received two NAACP Award nominations and is already on its fourth season. The series for children ages 6-9 is a coming-of-age story about a young Black
girl who finds her voice and uses it to change her world -- originally inspired by Chris’s oldest daughter Karma and based on the interactive educational website of the same name created by Karma’s World Entertainment in 2009.
A consummate businessman, Ludacris is enjoying success outside of entertainment. One of his most successful ventures includes opening his long-anticipated restaurant Chicken-n-Beer at the Hartsfield-
Jackson Atlanta Airport with a new location opening at LAX in 2023.
Bridge’s philanthropic e orts rival his entertainment accomplishments. He started The Ludacris Foundation in 2001 which focuses on helping the youth in his hometown of Atlanta and has partnered with No Kid Hungry and Feeding America.
The Saturday, Aug. 17 Ludacris show is already sold out. Visit nwwafair.com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Gear Heads roll into Northwest Washington Fair
By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter
From Aug. 8-17, classic car enthusiasts from all over Washington State will have the opportunity to see some of the finest antique vehicles in Lynden and beyond at the Gear Heads of Whatcom County’s annual car show at the Northwest Washington Fair.
With as many as 50 cars on display, as well as dozens of prizes set to be given out in this year’s exhibition, this car show is gearing up to be one of the most exciting events for automobile enthusiasts throughout the state. Come to the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden to see it all.
According to Scott Calkins, president and founder of Gear Heads of Whatcom
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The Gear Heads of Whatcom County will hold a car show at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden, Aug. 8-17. (Top photo by Bill Helm/Lynden Tribune. Photo above and on page 37 courtesy Gear Heads of Whatcom County)
Win A Mercedes GLA Or A Toyota Truck
• Cash Drawings now through August 17, 2024
• Grand Finale on August 17, 2024
• Earn entries to win every day from now to the Grand Finale — up to eight entries on Friday, and up to nine entries on Sundays, based on your play.
County, the show will start and end each day at moreor-less the same time the fair starts each day, which means that the teams operating the car show will be there from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.
“We’ve usually got one or two people working there at a time,” Calkins said. “Then from there we generally like to swap out at four- to six-hour shifts.”
Traditionally, the club has given trophies out based on decades as well as pure style, with contestants winning awards for categories such as Best Paint and Standout Car,
as well as having the best cars from as late as 1980s back to the 1930s. However, Calkins said one of the new categories to this year’s competition is the addition of a best 2000s car prize.
Calkins said that this can be a way for the club to extend an invitation for younger people to join their society.
“We added some more recently made cars as well as sports cars to the show as well so that we can bring in some of the younger generation,” Calkins said. “Because their car is going to look similar to some-
thing they grew up with, like a Japanese car or an imported car. Last year we had maybe 30 to 35 younger people show up with their imported cars and it was pretty cool to see them there.”
Calkins said although part of the club’s purpose is to raise money for its many assorted charities, some of whom include the Whatcom Humane Society, Food Bank of Whatcom County and the Vietnam Vets of Whatcom County, he said Whatcom County Gear Heads was primarily made for car fans throughout the
county to connect and enjoy their passions in each other’s company.
“We’re just for people who are wild about cars, simple as that,” Calkins said. “This show and this club is for people who enjoy cars, whether that’s driving them or showing them o or getting together with other people who like doing both of those things, it’s all about the camaraderie.”
For more information, visit the Northwest Washington Fair at nwwafair. com or visit the Gear Heads website at gearheadswc.com.
FREE
BOOKS FOR KIDS
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a low-barrier literacy program that mails one new book each month to registered children under 5 in Whatcom County at no cost to families! United Way of Whatcom County funds and manages this program for our community’s kids.
Brought to you by United Way of Whatcom County
Register a child! Support this program!
visitwww.unitedwaywhatcom.org/imagination-library/ for more information
LIBROS PARA NIÑOS GRATIS
¡Dolly Parton's Imagination Library es un programa de alfabetización que envía un nuevo libro cada mes a niños menores de cinco (5) años que viven en el condado de Whatcom! United Way del Condado de Whatcom financia y administra este programa para los niños de nuestra comunidad.
¡Registrar un niño/a!
visita www.unitedwaywhatcom.org/imagination-library/ para másinformación
¡Apoyar este programa!
Food Vendors
GRANDSTAND AREA
A ROASTED DEVELOPMENT
Roasted corn on the cob, baked potatoes
CORNERSTONE CS
Burgers, fries, breakfast
FIESTA TIME FOODS
King corn dogs, chicken nuggets, garlic cheese curds
Cheeseburgers, fries, hot dogs, nachos, chili dogs
BOBA TEA
Freshly made boba tea
WEST OF CLOCKTOWER
KONA SHAVED ICED
Shaved ice, multiple avors
LINDSAY’S CRAZY FOR KETTLE CORN
Kettle corn in various avors
LYNDEN DUTCH BAKERY POFFERTJES
Po ertjes, baked goods
SHISHKABERRY
Strawberries, bananas, and pineapple dipped in chocolate
SWEET ART
Cotton candy animal creations
SOUTH SIDE OF PHILLIPS 66
DAIRY WOMEN
Moo-wich, hard pack ice cream, soft serve sundaes
WECU EXPO BUILDING
FAT SHACK
Philly cheesesteak, fat sandwiches
EL RANCHITO
Super nachos, enchilada/tacos, deluxe taco salads
LA POLINA CREPES
Crepes, savory and dessert
LYNCS ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB
Hot dogs, curly fries, Fair burgers
OUTSIDE WECU EXPO
EDALEEN DAIRY
Greek yogurt, fresh scooped and prepackaged parfaits
SOUTH OF WECU EXPO
FUNNEL CAKES
Variety of funnel cakes and toppings
MOUNT BAKER COUNCIL BSA
Chili cheese bowls, corn dogs, corn-onthe-cob
Banner Bank Festival Square Stage
TAMMY HARRIS BARTON
Meet Tammy Harris Barton, a mesmerizing and highly skilled hypnotist who has captivated audiences across the globe with her extraordinary talent and engaging stage presence. Known for her ability to e ortlessly blend humor, intrigue, and the mysterious art of hypnosis. Tammy will take the stage at 2:00 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. every day.
SCHEDULE–
4-H Performing Arts (2 hrs.)
Piano Juggler (35 min.)
Reptile Lady (60 min.)
Salsa Steel (60 min.)
Tammy Harris Barton (60 min.)
Zuzu Acrobats (45 min.)
THE PIANO JUGGLER
Dan Menendez, known as the Piano Juggler, is a unique performer who combines the art of juggling with musical performance. is innovative act for all ages involves playing the piano with balls while simultaneously juggling them, creating a fascinating and entertaining spectacle. e Piano Juggler will take the stage at 12:00 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. daily.
Thursday 8/8 to Saturday 8/17
Time: 10 a.m.
Times: 12:00 and 4:15 p.m.
Times: 12:45 and 5:00 p.m.
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Times: 2:00 and 6:15 p.m.
Times: 3:15 and 7:30 p.m.
ZUZU AFRICAN ACROBATS
e Zuzu African Acrobats are an electrifying and dynamic performance troupe that brings the vibrant energy of African culture to stages worldwide. is extraordinary group combines acrobatics, traditional dance, and high-energy stunts to create a captivating and unforgettable experience. Performing daily at 3:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Banner Bank Stage brings the heat
By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter
For many years, the Banner Bank Stage has been home to some of the most thrilling and peculiar live acts from performers all across the Pacific Northwest.
Here are some of the acts that will perform at this year’s Northwest Washington Fair, Aug. 8-17.
The Piano Juggler
Dan “the Piano Juggler” Menendez has spent years honing what his website refers to as the “most memorable variety act of all time.” This includes mixing comedy, music and acts of physical skills such as juggling, to create a lively and unforgettable show for kids of all ages.
According to his website, pianojuggler.com, Dan got his big break when he was spotted performing at a Los Angeles comedy club. He was immediately slated to perform on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. That initial appearance was selected for Carson’s primetime anniversary special. Years of national and international TV appearances followed.
Dan has performed at professional sporting events, banquets, trade shows and concerts all over the world. In 2001 he won the Daidogei World Cup in Japan, an international entertainment competition. Dan has flown over two million miles to perform as The Piano Juggler.
The Piano Juggler will perform daily at the Banner Bank Stage at noon and 4:15 p.m.
Tammy Harris Barton
According to her website, Tammy Harris Barton is “one of the most talented, respected and sought after hypnotists in the country today.”
In every show, Tammy selects willing volunteers from the audience and then puts them into a state of hypnosis. She then guides them though a
Dan “the Piano Juggler” Menendez will perform daily at the Banner Bank Stage at noon and at 4:15 p.m. (Photo courtesy Dan “the Piano Juggler” Menendez)
journey of the mind in which the volunteers act on suggestions Tammy provides. During her show you never know who might show up to share her stage. Only the imagination of her volunteers will limit their journey. Tammy always maintains the highest level of respect for her volunteers,
and never embarrasses or humiliates any one on stage.
Whether performing at high schools, colleges, corporate events, state or county fairs, private parties or night clubs, Tammy’s perfor-
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mance will provide you with an intriguing and hilarious show that will be remembered by all for years to come.
Tammy will perform hypnosis on the Banner Bank Stage every day at 2 p.m and 6:15 p.m.
The Reptile Show
Presenting every day at 12:45 p.m and 5 p.m, the Northwest Washington Fair will host a reptile show on the Banner Bank Stage where April Jacson, otherwise known as the Reptile Lady, will show o a diverse roster of amphibians, lizards and reptiles to educate Whatcom families on all the ways they can interact with wildlife at home and across the world.
Zuzu African Acrobats
Hailing from Tanzania, the Zuzu African Acrobats o er a showstopping celebration of culture and human ability that combines acrobatics, traditional dance and high energy stunts to create a breathtaking and unbelievable experience for the whole family.
According to zuzuafricanacrobats.com, Zuzu African Acrobats celebrate the 2,000-year-old Bantu culture of East Africa. Each member of the cast has received special instructions from elders in the Bagamoyo Arts and Cultural Institute to perform these ancient traditions to audiences around the world.
Some of the highlights of this training include proficiency with the ngoma (drum), contortion (ubishi wa solo), dish spinning (sahani inazunguka), chair balance (kusawazisha kiti), unicycles and bicycle tricks (baiskeli), human pyramids (mazoezi ya viungo) and much more all to the sounds of African beats.
The grace, beauty and strength of Africa stands as living testimony presented through living human art and entertainment.
Zuzu African Acrobats will perform daily at 3:15 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The Zuzu African Acrobats o er a showstopping celebration of culture and human ability that combines acrobatics, traditional dance and high energy stunts to create a breathtaking and unbelievable experience for the whole family. (Photo courtesy Zuzu
African Acrobats)
Rodeo: Annual event is Aug. 12-13
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deo seating is reserved, and tickets must be purchased for all ages.
Witness nationally ranked cowboys and cowgirls, showcasing their skills. With C5 Rodeo providing toptier rodeo stock, the combination of Jody Carper, the esteemed voice of rodeo, and Matt Merritt, the beloved rodeo entertainer, ensures that this will be two nights of electrifying entertainment.
In the rough stock events, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding, a contestant’s score is equally dependent upon their performance and the animal’s performance.
To earn a qualified score, the contestant, while using only one hand, must stay aboard a bucking horse or bull for eight seconds.
If the rider touches the animal
This year’s Lynden PRWC Rodeo is Aug. 12-13. Rodeo performances start at 7 p.m. All seating is festival seating. Cost is $25 per ticket, $149 for the Lynden PRCA Rodeo VIP Experience. Kids 12 and younger are $10. (Tribune file photos)
themselves or any of their equipment with their free hand, they are disqualified.
In saddle bronc and bareback riding, a contestant must mark out their horse; that is, they must exit the chute with their spurs set above the horse’s shoulders and hold them until the horse’s front feet hit the initial jump out of the chute.
Failing to do so results in disqualification.
In timed events: steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, and barrel racing; cowboys and cowgirls at the other end of the arena compete against the clock, as well as against each other.
A contestant’s goal is to post the fastest time in his or her event.
In steer wrestling and the roping events, calves and steers are allowed a head start.
The competitor, on horseback, starts in a three-sided fenced area called a box.
The fourth side opens into the arena.
A rope barrier is stretched across that opening and is tied to the calf or steer with a breakaway loop.
Once the calf or steer reaches the head-start point - predetermined by the size of the arena - the barrier is automatically released.
If a cowboy or a cowgirl breaks that barrier, a 10-second penalty is added.
C5 Rodeo Company was founded in 2008 by Vern McDonald.
Since then they have grown to two locations, one in Lac La Biche, Alberta and one in Three Forks, Montana.
C5 Rodeo is one of North America’s largest bucking horse suppliers.
The C5 Rodeo crew hopes everyone enjoys the rodeo in Lynden and is proud to be part of this great event.
Rodeo funny man Matt Merritt, the exclusive entertainer of the PBR Velocity Tour, keeps crowds across the country laughing.
Known for his dancing skills, Matt loves to create an atmosphere that is fun for audiences of all ages.
You will hear the voice of former rodeo contestant, turned rodeo announcer, Jody Carper, announcing the Lynden PRCA Rodeo.
Jody’s love for rodeo and his patriotism help make the Lynden PRCA Rodeo a great night at the fair for families.
Rodeo for beginners
Professional rodeo action consists of roughstock events and timed events.
In the roughstock events, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding, a contestant’s score is equally dependent upon their performance and the animal’s performance.
To earn a qualified score, the
contestant, while using only one hand, must stay aboard a bucking horse or bull for eight seconds. If the rider touches the animal, themselves or any of their equipment with their free hand, they are disqualified.
In saddle bronc and bareback riding, a contestant must mark out their horse; that is, they must exit the chute with their spurs set above
the horse’s shoulders and hold them there until the horse’s front feet hit the ground after the initial jump out of the chute. Failing to do so results in disqualification.
During the regular season, two judges each score a contestant’s qualified ride by awarding 0-25
See Beginner on 54
Professional rodeo action consists of roughstock events and timed events. (Tribune file photos)
Demolition: Annual derby is Aug. 8-9
An annual event, the Demolition Derby is the fair’s opening act as it was last year. At 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8 and again at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, the Northwest Washington Fair will host its annual Demolition Derby as part of the Bank of the Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series. (Tribune file photos)
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It attracts all the best contestants in the area and the love to put on a show. Come out to watch the best smashing, crashing, demolition derby action. With $80K in payouts, the derby will hand out prizes for first, second and third place in the following categories: full build big car, big trucks, chain ‘n go, small truck, small car, minivan and figure 8. For more information about the Whatcom Demo Derby Club, such as registration and rules, visit wddclub. com.
Demotion Derby VIP Experience includes:
Premium Parking: Enter Lot 8 o Kok Road, place your parking credentials on your dashboard and be directed to VIP parking.
One pass per pair of tickets.
Gate Admission: Tickets will allow entrance at any fair gate.
VIP Credentials: Present your VIP credentials to access the VIP hospitality tent, at the new VIP entrance location, on the North Side of the VIP Area (signage will be posted to direct you).
Lanyards will be provided for your credentials. Credentials must be worn at all times and are non-transferrable. Your VIP credentials provide an exclusive VIP Hospitality area, which opens at 5 p.m. and remains open post-show until 10 p.m.
Silver Reef Casino Resort caters to dinner and will be served until the start of the show at 7 p.m. Visit nwwafair.com for the dinner menu.
No-host bar: The hospitality tent features a no-host bar with complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. The last call is at 9:30 p.m.
Event Seating: You will access your VIP exclusive festival seating through the VIP hospitality area.
A ticket is required for everyone in the VIP area, including children under the age of 3.
Any questions call the fair o ce at 360-354-4111. For more information, visit nwwafair.com.
Beginner: A guide to understanding rodeo
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points for the rider’s performance and 0-25 points for the animal’s effort. The judges’ scores are then combined to determine the contestant’s score. A perfect score is 100 points.
In timed events: steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping, and barrel racing; cowboys and cowgirls at the other end of the arena compete against the clock, as well as against each other. A contestant’s goal is to post the fastest time in his or her event. In steer wrestling and the roping events, calves and steers are allowed a head start. The competitor, on horseback, starts in a three-sided fenced area called a box. The fourth side opens into the arena.
A rope barrier is stretched across that opening and is tied to the calf or steer with a breakaway loop. Once the calf or steer reaches the headstart point - predetermined by the size of the arena - the barrier is automatically released. If a cowboy breaks that barrier, a 10-second penalty is added.
Rodeo
Terms
• Added money: purse money supplied by the rodeo committee. It is added to the entry fees to make up the total prize money.
• Bareback Rigging: the only equipment a bareback rider has to help him ride. It is made of leather and resembles a suitcase strap. It is held on the horse’s back with a cinch, just like a saddle.
• Barrier: a rope stretched across the front of the box from which the roper or steer wrestler’s horse emerges. This rope is attached to the steer or calf and allows the animal a head start.
• Bronc Rein: rein attached to the horse’s halter for balance while riding a saddle bronc.
Guide: Better understanding rodeo events
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• Bull Rope: a flat braided rope used in bull riding as the only handhold for the bull rider. It is wrapped around the bull and then around the rider’s hand.
• Chute: the pen that holds the animal in order for the rider to get on and prepare for his ride.
• Flank Strap: a fleecelined leather strap that is placed behind the horse’s rib cage in the flank area. A soft rope is used in the bull riding event.
Flank straps are not fastened tightly and do not hurt the animals. If this strap is tightened too tight, the animal will refuse to buck.
• Hazer: a cowboy who rides beside a steer on the opposite side of the steer wrestler.
His job is to keep the steer running straight and close to the contestant’s horse.
• Pickup Man: a mounted cowboy who helps the rider o of a bronc when the ride is completed.
The pickup man also removes the flank strap from the bronc and leads it out of the corral.
• Re-Ride: another ride given to a bronc or bull rider when the first ride is ruled by judges as unsatisfactory.
Reasons for granting a re-ride: being fouled on the chutes or the horse failing to buck hard enough to give the rider a fair chance.
• Rank: a bull or bronc that is hard to ride.
• Score: the length of the head start given to the steer
or calf in the timed events.
• Slack: a time, usually late at night or early in the morning, other than during the performance when the extra contestants compete in the rodeo.
There are only 8-12 slots in each rodeo performance for each event, when more contestants enter than can compete in the performances, they can compete in the slack.
Did you know?
• The definition of rodeo is a Spanish word meaning roundup.
• The di erence between Spanish rodeo and American rodeo is that the Spanish version focuses on style, while the American version focuses on speed.
• The PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association) has over 7000 members.
•More than 127 PRCA cowboys have surpassed the million dollar mark in prize money at PRCA rodeos.
• Today’s rodeos are an o spring of the early Wild West shows that featured cowboys such as Bu alo Bill Cody.
• The PRCA is the largest sanctioning organization with over 600 rodeos sanctioned yearly. The average bucking horse or bull works less than five minutes per year in the arena.
• The PRCA has 60 rules that govern the care and treatment of rodeo stock.
• Bucking horses usually weigh from 1000 to 1500 pounds, and bulls up to 2000 pounds.
Event promises action-packed entertainment
By Merrick Parnell For the Tribune
This year, attendees can see a brand new show at the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden. For the first time at the Fair, The Ninja Experience promises action-packed thrills, hilarious comedy and daring stunts that will entertain audiences.
Nick Walters, owner of the Ninja Experience, said he is eager to bring the show to a new state and venue.
“It’s always fun to see new fairgrounds, but Washington as a whole and its scenery are beautiful,” Walters said. “I can’t wait to explore.”
At the Silver Reef Resort Stage, skilled parkour athletes will tackle, climb and run through tough obstacles with their strength and agility, scaling large walls and mastering tricky challenges to showcase their incredible skills.
Athletes from across the United States, including California, Florida and Iowa, will participate in the performance. “Unfortunately, we do not have any from Washington, but we are always looking to add to our roster,” Walters said.
Spectators will have an opportunity to see stunts that were previously only seen on television shows like “American Ninja Warrior,” now brought to life with the Ninja Experience. These extreme athletes, known as Ninjas, will tackle a 15-foot warped
wall and go through an airborne obstacle course with speed and athleticism.
“We’ll bring flips, tricks, and danger right to your backyard,” Walters said. “Most folks enjoy the Ninja Warrior course.”
The show o ers an immersive experience where the audience can participate in interactive segments by cheering for the ninjas as they perform their feats and joining in laughter during comedic moments.
The show promises to blend extreme sports with entertainment for all ages.
Following each performance, guests can meet the Ninjas in person, and audience members can take photos with the athletes and even attempt board-breaking like true ninjas, creating some unique and lasting memories at the fair.
With special e ects and top-notch production, the Ninja Experience ensures an evening filled with continuous entertainment. Whether seeking excitement or family-friendly fun, this show guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Fair-goers can enjoy the Ninja Experience as part of the Free at the Fair lineup. Performances will run from Aug. 8-17 with two daily shows at noon and 2:30 p.m. and additional shows at 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
For more information on the Ninja Experience, other Free at the Fair performers, and general information about the Northwest Washington Fair, visit nwwafair.com.
Don’t miss the Ninja Experience this summer. Whether you love exciting stunts or want a fun family outing, the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden has something for everyone. Check out the Silver Reef Resort Stage for an amazing show with sports, comedy and interactive activities.
Snapshots from the 2023 NWW Fair
Hayes: Country musician to play on Aug. 10
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It would become his breakthrough hit on the Billboard charts.
In August 2018, Hayes released a single titled “90’s Country,” a song with lyrics that contain multiple references to titles of country songs from the 1990s.
On June 4, 2021, Hayes released the EP Country Stu . One of its tracks, “Fancy Like,” became a viral hit through TikTok and reached No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the Hot Country Songs chart, Hayes’ highest-charting e ort to date.
“Fancy Like” was subsequently released to country radio as his next single, and debuted at No. 53 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
“Fancy Like” appeared on an extended play titled Country Stu , the tracks of which also carried over to
his third studio album, 2022’s Country Stu the Album. The album has also produced the singles “U Gurl” and “AA.”
Hayes has performed his music, including the Double-Platinum RIAA certified hit “You Broke Up With Me,” to national audiences on Good Morning America, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and TODAY, and he was profiled for CBS Sunday Morning.
Hayes is currently out on his headlining arena tour, The Duck Buck Tour. His second arena tour in two years, after he closed out the Glad You’re Here tour last fall. A tour which is the same title as the book he released with his best friend, Craig Allen Cooper, detailing his journey to finding Christ.
Order tickets for the Saturday, Aug. 10 show at nwwafair.com/p/ tickets. Tickets are $45-$70. How-
ever, tickets do not include gate admission.
Visit walkerhayes.com for more about Walker Hayes. Visit nwwafair.com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
Grounds Entertainment
All Creatures (20 min.)
Cirque Cyber (30 min.)
Ninja Experience (30 min.)
SCHEDULE– Thursday 8/8 to Saturday 8/17
Times: 11:30 a.m. plus 12:45, 2:00 3:15 & 4:30 p.m.
Times: 1:15 & 3:45 p.m.
Times: 12:00 & 2:30 p.m.
Walkaround Entertainment
SCHEDULE– Thursday 8/8 to Saturday 8/17
Salsa Steel (60 min.)
Strolling Robot (2 hrs.)
Times: 11:00 a.m. & 4:00 p.m.
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Clock Tower
SCHEDULE – 4:00 p.m. (30 min.)
Thursday 8/8
Friday 8/9
Saturday 8/10
Sunday 8/11
Monday 8/12
Tuesday 8/13
Wednesday 8/14
Thursday 8/15
Friday 8/16
Saturday 8/17
Piano Juggler
Salsa Steel
Peruvian Dancers
Chicas Reinas
First Responders
Military
Salsa Steel
Blackhawk Singers
Piano Juggler
Rainbow Square Dancers
Sat. 8/10, 8/17 & Sun. 8/11
Add’l. Time: 5:45 p.m.
Sat. 8/10, 8/17 & Sun. 8/11
Add’l. Time: 5:00 p.m.
Cirque Cyber visits Washington
For the first time, this year’s Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden will feature a brand new act, the Cirque Cyber thrill show, which promises to captivate and entertain crowds. (Photos courtesy Cirque Cyber)
One of Free at the Fair event offerings this year
By Merrick Parnell For the Tribune
For the first time, this year’s Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden will feature a brand new act, the Cirque Cyber thrill show, which promises to captivate and entertain crowds.
Marc-Antony Murcia and his wife Elvira, owners of Cirque Cyber along with Giovanni Flores, will bring a dynamic show that combines classic circus acts with a modern twist. Murcia describes Cirque Cyber as “entertainment from the future,” and the show promises thrilling performances like motorcycles in the globe of death, where daredevils on dirt bikes whip around a steel sphere, and the 32-foot spinning wheel of destiny, a human-sized hamster wheel on a pendulum.
The show also includes acrobatics
and Arial Lyra, an act performed on troupe’s first performance in Washsuspended hoops.
In addition to the theatrics and stunts, the show incorporates cutting-edge electronics with LED lighting, sound e ects, and electronic dance music (EDM) as the performance soundtrack, all complemented by unique, one-of-a-kind costumes, creating a fresh and new attraction.
For the owners of Cirque Cyber, performing is deeply rooted in their family’s history and heritage.
“Entertaining audiences is in our blood,” Murcia said. “Our families have been in the circus our entire lives. I am a 10th-generation circus performer. My family and I have traveled worldwide, performing in different countries, and we’ve visited almost all 50 states.”
The Cirque Cyber show marks the
ington. Their agency, Star Attractions, reached out to the Northwest Washington Fair and received an invitation.
“We are honored and excited to be performing at this year’s fair, and we hope to leave a lasting impression on everyone who watches the show,” said Murcia. He emphasized that their performances will create lasting memories for all attendees.
Cirque Cyber shows will run for approximately half an hour and are part of the Free at the Fair event o erings, with no additional cost. Cirque Cyber will perform twice daily at 1:15 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., with additional evening shows scheduled on Aug. 10-11 and again on Aug. 17 at 5:45 p.m. All performances will take place at the Andgar Home Comfort Stage.
Other Free at the Fair events include the Banner Bank Festival Stage, the All the Animals exhibition, the Northwest Washington Car Show, All Creatures Barnyard Racing, The Ninja Experience, the Grandstand Horse Show, and the Small Animal Experience.
For more information about the Cirque Cyber show, visit cirquecyber. com. For details about the Northwest Washington Fair, visit nwwafair.com.
As Cirque Cyber prepares to make its Washington debut at the Northwest Washington Fair, anticipation is high for an unforgettable experience. With performances scheduled multiple times daily and additional evening shows, attendees have ample opportunity to witness this groundbreaking show.
Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of motorcycles in the globe of death, the gravity-defying acrobatics, or the pulsating beats of electronic dance music, Cirque Cyber promises to leave a lasting impression.
Take your chance to be part of this futuristic journey at the fairgrounds this season.
Abilities over disabilities
Rascal Rodeo promotes cowboys, cowgirls
By Cynthia Carlson For the Tribune
LYNDEN — At the Northwest Washington Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 13, Rascal Rodeo will make it possible for people of any age with a developmental or physical disability to be a cowboy or cowgirl in the arena.
Participants will discover unknown abilities in a unique, safe and modified rodeo environment with live animals and rodeo activities.
Thanks to donors, sponsors and volunteers, all this is available to the participants at no cost.
Ann-Erica Whitemarsh, founder and executive director of Rascal Rodeo, grew up in the city and said she always wanted to be a cowgirl. Her father was highly active in Special Olympics. Whitemarsh, inspired by a Texas event called Exceptional Rodeo she had heard about, developed a high school senior project for the disabled to experience rodeo in an adaptive way.
After college and an unfulfilling stint as an administrative assistant, she decided to go all out and pursue her dream on a bigger level.
Starting with nothing but her own grit and inability to
In the photograph above, Dylan Coppinger Carter (center) stays on the rolling barrel bull. His brother Cian stands behind him. His cousin Cole looks on (at right). (Photo courtesy Carrie Coppinger Carter) In the photograph on page 72, Mike Kortus (far left), Lucas Johnson (center), and Nicole Rimes (far right) of Larson Gross, assist Rascal Rodeo sta with the horse rides. (Photo courtesy Larson Gross)
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Your Go-To Birthday Headquarters!
• On your way to a party? Free
Birthday Buckets Available!
1. Birthday child “shops” and fills a bucket with what they want for their birthday.
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“I am on the behalf of the LHM-EF writing this brief communication to enlist your support as we continue our efforts to give financial stability to the Lynden Heritage Museum.
We, I and nine other volunteers, serve as directors and officers of the LHM-EF. Our purpose and goals are to carefully and safely manage the invested funds that provide for quarterly distributions to the Lynden Heritage Foundation that provides day-to-day management of the Lynden Heritage Museum.
In addition to monitoring the invested funds we seek to grow our endowment. The founders of the endowment early on set a goal of $3 million. If we can achieve that goal, the amount we distribute quarterly can rise to $60,000 annually without drawing down the total invested funds.
Currently our endowment is just over $2 million, a sum we have reached because of community support and some significant gifts and bequests. Many of our citizens have made regular yearly gifts to our endowment and others have made the endowment part of their estate planning. My wife and I use the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) option to give from our IRA. The endowment is a 501c3 charitable organization.
We would like an opportunity to add you to the supporters of the endowment in whichever way seems right for your participation.”
be deterred, Whitemarsh found supporters, locales, and developed a plan to start Rascal Rodeo, which she named in the spirit of mischievous fun.
Whitemarsh expressed much gratitude for the involvement of volunteers and donors who have helped make Rascal Rodeo such a success, and helped the event expand from Washington state to Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Nevada and Wyoming.
Professional cowboys and cowgirls bring a wowfactor for participants who experience their own rodeo day where they can be and do as much as they can imagine or want to.
Participant wins
Participants and volunteers often return year after year. According to Whitemarsh, some parents have experienced hearing their child say his or her first word -- cowboy or horse. She told of another mother who had never heard her daughter speak and then suddenly heard her daughter’s voice as she began talking softly to the horse she was sitting on, leaned down, patted the horse she was sitting on and asked, “How are you doing?”
Kai Regner of Lynden, a gregarious teenage Rascal Rodeo participant with Down Syndrome, said he
feels more confident.
“I try new things,” Regner said. “I have fun and like doing things with the cowboys and rodeo queen.”
Kai’s mother, Kathy Kerven, said Rascal Rodeo “helps foster more independence. A community of peers develops.”
“Rascal Rodeo friends encourage each other to try new things,” Kerven said. “They ride horses, rope bulls, ride rocking and rolling barrel broncs, do barrel races in their wheelchairs or with a stick horse. They all get cowboy hats, bandanas, t-shirts, sheri badges, and special belt buckles.”
Volunteers, parents and sponsors react
Cole Coppinger, a teen volunteer from Everson and cousin of participant Dylan Coppinger Carter, said he and other volunteers “learn to appreciate people di erent from themselves and to see them in a new light – for their abilities rather than their disabilities.”
“I appreciate my own abilities more,” Coppinger said. “I take them less for granted.”
Thinking about the overall experience of Rascal Rodeo, Coppinger said, “Everyone has more fun than they think they will and all
Continued on 74
the smiles stay with you.”
Cindy Morgan, a firsttime adult volunteer, said she is “hooked and looks forward to volunteering again.” Second-year volunteer Allessandra LapelusaMcDonald said “Everyone is engaged and smiling. Participants just glow and their happiness is infectious.”
A participant parent, volunteer and event sponsor, Attorney Carrie Coppinger Carter of Everson said “Constant improvising takes place at Rascal Rodeo so everyone can engage and feel seen, included, and cheered on. Volunteers forge friendships. Participants broaden their community. Everyone learns. There is the excitement of belonging.”
Mike Kortus of Lynden, participating as part of Larson Gross’ Volunteer Day 2023, said he felt encouraged by the opportunity Rascal Rodeo o ers to participants.
Kortus described experiencing their joy as they rode a real horse, and could touch, pet, and bond with live animals, “things many of us take for granted.”
Another Larson Gross participant, Ryan LaBrooy said he “did not realize how rewarding this activity would be.”
Larson Gross’ Employee Engagement Manager Rachel Myers, who volunteered along with her teenage daughter and a friend, stated “As participants arrived, they made bee-lines for what they wanted to do. Their faces lit up and their excitement was palpable.” She added that there was “strong feedback from
a number of employees wanting to go back and volunteer for Rascal Rodeo again.”
Rascal Rodeo is an unforgettable, highly anticipated event for all. Sponsors contribute to a worthwhile event that strengthens human bonds. Volunteers forge friendships with par-
ticipants and return time and again with friends for additional volunteer experiences. Participants experience the excitement of belonging and find community.
Whitemarsh said Rascal Rodeo has “come a long way in accepting those with disabilities into our
communities. That needs to continue. You give some love to them and they give all of theirs to you.”
Rascal Rodeo expects to have 130-plus participants at the Northwest Washington Fair at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13 in the Indoor Arena. Register to attend at rascalrodeo.org/registration.
Rascal Rodeo develops friendships, this one between Kai Regner of Lynden and Dylan Coppinger Carter of Everson. (Photo courtesy Kathy Kerven)
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Cool Heat 365
Polar Clean Air Inc
Kyle Christensen Realty
New Moon Gems
Reasonable Faith
Key Bank
Evergreen Softtub & Sauna
Baker Gemstones Mining
North of the Bank of the Pacific Grandstands
Kakadu Traders
Whatcom Republicans
Yeager’s Sporting Goods
Northwest Indian Crafts
Six Chicks Boutique LLC
Lynden Artisan Market
Jack’d Candy
Winay Arts
South of Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
Kustom Wood Creations
Gideons International of Whatcom
County
Cook for Life
Bombay Trends
AK Name Rings
Sweet Boutique
God Mobile
Wayi LLC
Acessories Martinez
Monster Metal
Bugalou Creations
Miraculous Braidz and Face Paintz
Winay Arts
T-Mobile
Sanye Ince
Chicanita Imports
East of Henry Jansen Ag Center
Bellingham Police Department
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Army
U.S. Marines
U.S. Air Force/Space Force
U.S. Navy
Whatcom Council of Governments
Bobcat of Bellingham
Farmers Equipment
Brim Tractor
Papé Machinery
Rumbling Mountain
Habitat for Humanity
Whatcom County
Airbrush Magician
Inside Gate 2
Ascending Tree Service
Heritage Portable Buildings
these deals at the fair
Several discount days for patrons
By Elisa Claassen For the Tribune
Do you want your dollar to go a bit further when enjoying the fair? Consider a few deals that may not be obvious.
A few things are pretty easy but involve some planning. Park throughout Lynden and ride the free bus that makes a loop through town with little wait time or take the WTA which offers free bus rides in August to the Fair to encourage new riders.
Sign up for early access and discounts on the fair’s website, nwwafair.com/email.aspx.Volunteers receive free entry. A number of public
service organizations have booths at the fair and o er tickets in exchange for volunteer time. A 10-day admission pass o ers an incredible value for one low price. Kids five and under are always free. The pass is $45 per person. Each day, otherwise, is $15 for general admission, $13 for seniors (62 and over), and $10 for youth (six through 12).
Also, an unlimited ride wristband is $42. It is good for rides for any one day at the fair and must be used by 8 p.m.
The following are the many discounts and specials available at this year’s Northwest Washington Fair:
• Friday, Aug. 9 is Food Drive Friday. Receive free gate admission between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at gates 1 or 5 with a donation of four food items (such as canned proteins,
fruits, vegetables, dry pinto beans, rice and pasta) to benefit the Whatcom County Food Bank Network. Food Drive Friday is made possible by Brown & Brown.
• Sunday, Aug. 11, all community members receive free gate admission at gates 1 or 5 between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. courtesy of Peoples Bank.
• Monday, Aug. 12, the fair will celebrate those who rush in to give aid with complimentary gate admission for all law enforcement o cers, EMTs and firefighters with valid ID, including their spouse and children. Must enter through gates 1 or 5. Made possible by Puget Sound Energy.
• Tuesday, Aug. 13, the fair says thank you to our nation’s heroes by providing complimentary gate admission for all active duty, retired and veteran military personnel with valid ID, along with their spouse and children. Must enter through gates 1 or 5. Complimentary gate admission made possible by Victory Legal Services.
• Wednesday, Aug. 14 is Kids Day. Arrive at gates 1 or 5 and all kids, age 12 and under receive complimentary gate admission. Made possible by WRS.
• Thursday, Aug. 15, $2 o gate admission for all Western Washington University students, alumni, faculty and sta with valid ID. Tickets must be purchased at gates 1 or 5. Northwest Washington Fair will partner for a third year with Western Washington University to provide this opportunity.
Northwest Washington Fair Board of Directors
Steve VanderYacht President
Lauren Meenderinck
Mitch Kornelis Vice President
Nate Kleindel Secretary
Matt Koetje TJ Timmermans
Klayton Tjoelker Treasurer
Deane SandellJohn Garcia
Northwest Washington Fair Year-Round Staff
Selena Burgess Manager Tarrah Jandoc Director of HR / Business
Dean Lenssen Facilities Manager
Sheryl Hutson Accounting Exec. Assistant
Laurie Vis Maintenance
Renee Biemold Director of Facility Rentals Vendor Coordinator
Terry Vance Maintenance Lacey Vanderveen Competitive Exhibits Coord.
Karen Occhiogrosso Director of Sponsorship
Rick Seigman Caretaker
Kori Vander Veen Communications Coordinator
Tom DehoogTom LegreidTresie Wiersma
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LEELAND: Christian rock on Aug. 14
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Washington Fair in Lynden as part of the Fair’s Bank of The Pacific Grandstand Entertainment Series.
“Although our genesis as a band was in the Contemporary Christian Music artist stream, we’ve always been local church pastor’s kids,” said Mooring who spent his childhood going from town to town with his parents who ministered music in tandem with being traveling evangelists. “Half of the songs on our first studio album came out of intimate youth group worship services in our house or wherever we could meet.”
Originally formatted as a pop/ rock outfit readying commercial songs for radio, Leeland released their debut album, Sounds of Melodies, in 2006. Spawning a GRAMMY nomination and multiple Dove
Award nods, the record trailblazed a new path of artistic and Levitical worship led by the band. Mooring explains that the bulk of Leeland’s songs have always been inspired by the communion of worship. More recently, Mooring co-wrote one of the Church’s most-sung standards, “Lion and the Lamb,” with seasoned writers Brenton Brown and Brian Johnson. The song cemented his personal status as a young veteran in the sphere of modern worship music, further a rming that Leeland as a collective are drawn into crafting songs that court congregations across the globe to worship God through the act of singing – and singing together.
The last few years have been more hidden for Leeland, allowing them to dig deep into rich ideas and the unending depth of the
Scriptures. Carrying on the legacy of their unique voice in the worship world, they announce a new album in early 2023 leaning into a fearless exploration of a pastoral and prophetic voice of worship where songs are sung together and over the people of God. “Heart & Flesh,” the first single featuring TAYA, sets the scene with a track infused with meditative sonorities and soulgrabbing words that unveils the artistic and Levitical universe of Leeland’s upcoming record.
Order tickets for LEELAND’s Wednesday, Aug. 14 show at nwwafair.com/p/tickets. Tickets are $10-$15. However, tickets do not include gate admission.
For more about LEELAND visit them at leelandonline.com and on Facebook: Leeland. Visit nwwafair. com for more on the Northwest Washington Fair in Lynden.
WHOLESALE & RETAIL
There’s more to the fair than what you see
“One of the most rewarding parts is seeing our talented community showcase their projects,” Northwest Washington Fair Manager Selena Burgess said of the annual fair in August. “Whether it is through the arts, crafts, agriculture or other exhibits, the passion and creativity on display is truly inspiring. It’s a testament to the rich talent and dedication within our community.” (Bill Helm/Lynden Tribune)
So much happens to produce the annual fair: Goal as a team is to make each year fun
By Elisa Claassen For the Tribune
During fair week each year in the middle of August, fairgoers step onto the grounds and everything is alive with color, sounds, and so much to taste.
Within minutes, the smiles appear. What does it take for this to happen, and so seamlessly?
Northwest Washington Fair (NWWF) Manager Selena Burgess has seen the fair come together from both in front and behind the scenes. She said it takes a tremendous amount of volunteers and employees, vendors, exhibitors and entertainers to make it happen.
What does she love about her job?
“One of the most rewarding parts is seeing our talented community showcase their projects,” Burgess said. “Whether it is through the arts, crafts, agriculture or other exhibits, the passion and creativity on display is truly inspiring. It’s a testament to the rich talent and dedication within our community.”
Burgess said before this year’s fair ends, she and others will already look toward next year’s event.
“Our goal as a team is to make each year entertaining, educational and fun,” Burgess said. “We want to create experiences where community members and visitors make memories.”
While entertainment shows up on the big stage in front of the Grandstand, it also has plenty of other venues throughout the Fairgrounds. Burgess and her team consider options for all of them.
“When selecting entertainment for our large stage we understand that people have diverse tastes, we
strive to o er a variety of genres,” she said. “For instance, if you’re not a fan of country music, you might enjoy rock or even a rodeo. By diversifying our lineup, we hope to create an atmosphere where every visitor can find something they love.”
On the smaller stages, the approach is a bit di erent.
“Each year, we aim to introduce new acts and performers to keep the experience fresh and exciting for our visitors,” Burgess said. “Our small stage entertainment is included with fair admission, so guests can enjoy performances without any additional cost. This way, everyone can enjoy quality entertainment simply by walking through our gates.”
Behind the scenes –It takes a village
The Northwest Washington Fair o ce faces onto 1725 Front St., Lynden, across from the edge of the
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Fairway Shopping Center, and contains the o ces for the sta who also plan the use of the fair space for additional events throughout the year. Nine full-time employees, one part-time employee and caretaker are joined by seasonal sta when school gets out.
“They bring such a fun energy to the fair,” Burgess said of the high school and college students who join them. “Having them on our team is something that I am always thankful for.”
By the time the fair is set up for its August start, 200-plus employees come throughout the duration of the 10-day event. These people range from garbage pickers and table washers to ticket sellers and scanners at the gates.
“The seasonal sta ’s dedication and enthusiasm create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall fair experience,” Burgess said. “From guiding visitors and providing information to ensuring cleanliness and safety. They make every visitor feel like part of the fair family.”
The fair has 38 departments and each department has a superintendent. Burgess said some superintendents oversee more than one department, especially if it is something that is similar or something they are passionate about.
“Superintendents play a vital role in the success and smooth operation of the Northwest Washington Fair,” Burgess said. “They are the backbone of our fair, ensuring each department runs e ciently and e ectively.”
These people, who have other jobs throughout the year, have vast responsibilities at the fair from overseeing the setup and maintenance of exhibits to coordinating competitions.
“Superintendents bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their respective areas, often drawing from years of experience in their field,” Burgess said. “This expertise is indispensable in maintaining the high standards of quality and safety that our fair is known for. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to manage logistics, support exhibitors and address any issues that arise, ensuring
a positive experience for all participants and visitors. Moreover, superintendents foster a sense of community and continuity at the fair by building strong relationships with exhibitors, volunteers and fairgoers.”
Board oversees operations
There are 12 members on the fair’s board of directors, who are elected by the NWWF Association. They meet monthly and set the fair’s policy and mission.
The manager, Burgess, and her sta then oversee the daily operations under that mandate.
The fair’s mission is
to provide education regarding agriculture, past, present and future, experiences with positive competition, enjoyment of wholesome entertainment, social interactions and lasting memories.
Burgess said the fair is truly a community gathering space for people.
“I love seeing youth experience the fair, whether as exhibitors proudly presenting their hard work, as excited guests enjoying the attractions, or as employees fainting valuable work experience,” Burgess said. “Watching their enthusiasm and growth is incredibly exciting and one of my favorite things to experience.”
