Chautauqua Co. Fair Starts Monday

By Joel Keefer
Executive Assistant to Greg Edwards
Dunkirk, NY: -- The familiar sights and sounds of the Chautauqua County Fair will soon be in the air, and County Executive Gregory J. Edwards is encouraging everyone to come out and take part in the 128th edition of the event.

The Chautauqua County Fair runs July 27 to August 2 at the Dunkirk fairgrounds, and will feature great shows, rides and food.

"I look forward to the County Fair each and every year," Edwards said. "Not only is it a great time to get out and have some fun, but it's also an opportunity for people to learn more about our agricultural community."

Farming is a critical part of the County's economy, and Edwards has always made it a point to take part in the Annual 4-H Meat Animal Sale and visits the 4-H animal barns each year.

In addition to all of the traditional aspects of the Chautauqua County Fair, Edwards said there will also be a strong County Government presence this year. "Growing Our Future Together…Chautauqua County and You" is the theme for the County Government tent.

"We wanted to focus on all the positive partnerships that government and our residents have established to enhance the quality of life here in Chautauqua County," Edwards said. "We will be staffing the tent with representatives of numerous county departments from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. all seven days of the fair to maximize interaction with the public," Edwards concluded.

"We have ordered a larger tent which will be located closer to the main parking area," said government tent chairperson and County Clerk Sandy Sopak. "This will improve access to the displays which will include information and many giveaways donated by local businesses and county government."

The County Government tent will be situated near the new, covered entrance to the fairgrounds located off of the rear parking lot.

Advance sale ticket outlets, sponsors, exhibitor entry books and event schedules are available at the Chautauqua County Fair's Web site: www.ChautauquaCountyFair.org.

Pictured, County Clerk Sandy Sopak, County Executive Gregory J. Edwards, Cheryl Ruth, Department of Public Facilities, Joel Keefer, Executive Assistant to Greg Ewards.
(Photo provided by Greg Edwards' office)