Pancake Breakfast, Spring Farming Days, and Fair entertainment?

POMEROY–To hold the annual Pancake Breakfast or not to hold the event which coincides with the already canceled Pioneer Day Parade and activities, is the question for board members of the during the recent Garfield County Fair Board meeting April 21.

The pros and cons of trying to hold the Pancake Breakfast were debated due to the postponement again this year of Pioneer Day activities on the second weekend in June, which include the Pioneer Parade and program, Food Fair and other events that take place in conjunction with Pioneer Day like the All-Class Reunion, Wine & Stein and numerous individual class reunions.

Because the Pancake Breakfast is a fund-raiser for the county fair, several other possible dates were discussed for this event, such as graduation weekend, Father's Day or the Fourth of July. Oasis Park, across the street from the Nazarene Church, was suggested a good option for staging the breakfast outdoors. Lunsford emphasized the need for a commitment from more volunteer workers to help with the project and tabled the discussion for the time being.

David Ruark of the Eastern Washington Agricultural Museum reported that they had a good weekend during Spring Farming Days, with around fifty to fifty-five animals involved with the plowing and seeding process. Both museums were open to the public and the group kept track of the names of visitors and other health department regulations. Ruark estimated there were probably forty to fifty visitors on Saturday and about the same number on Sunday. He also reported that Jerry Wilsey had donated a tractor from his "Deere herd" during the fair.

Board president Sara Lunsford told the group that revision of the fair board by-laws which were discussed in March were still pending approval by county attorney Matt Newberg.

Lunsford is looking for entertainment preferably local, for the fair this fall, but not wanting to book any shows too far in advanced in case of changes in COVID-19 restriction. At this time, the general consensus is the willingness to forgo some of the traditional events and entertainment in order to be able to attend the fair and socialize. Susie Bowles observed that "people want out!"

Lunsford said superintendents are still needed for the Poultry and Rabbits, Cereals, and Photography departments at the fair. She also urged everyone to look over last year's Premium Book and make sure any additions or corrections soon, as that information is due by the end of May.

Larry Ledgerwood updated the group on the progress of broadband installation at the fairgrounds. He said it should be happening soon and they would like to have it done "sooner rather than later" as it might be needed for a fire camp considering the way the snow pack is in the mountains. Ledgerwood also said there was going to be a new website roll-out soon and Lunsford added there was also going to be a new pamphlet with undated information.

Fair board treasurer Monica Bartlow told the group she had received a quote for new laptop computer at just over $1,450.00 from the county's IT specialist. It was decided to check some other options before making a decision to purchase.

The next Fair Board meeting will be on May 18, 2021.