Wyoming State Fair on its way to 100th celebration

Douglas – At the beginning of December, the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) 100th Year Celebration fundraising committee officially marked $100,000 toward next year’s celebration.
    “We will have raised $112.088.62 so far from the buckles, pins and bracelets sold, as well as some boot money, one steer sold and some various auction items,” says WSF deputy director Vicki Rupert.
    A donation from EnCana, Oil and Gas helped put the committee over the mark to receive matching funds from the Wyoming Legislature. Matching funds will continue up to $250,000.
    “We are very excited about breaking the $100,000 mark,” says Rupert.
    As fundraising continues, buckle, pin and bracelet sets numbered six through 10 have been auctioned at various events around the state, including the Wyoming Wool Growers Association Convention and the Wyoming Stock Growers Winter Roundup, raising additional funds for the group. Sets one through five will be sold at special events as well.
    Because only 150 belt buckles and 1,000 pins and bracelets will be produced, the committee encourages anyone interested to contact the WSF. Also available are two styles of boots with the WSF logo. Cash donations toward the event are accepted as well.
    James Goodrich, director of the WSF, says that four concerts are planned for the event, and while offers are out, they have not confirmed the performers.
    WSF is also asking for feedback from Wyoming citizens about what they think has made the event successful since its inception. Email ideas or suggestions to wsf.100years@wyo.gov or post them at facebook.com/TheWyomingStateFair.
    Since 1905, the WSF has been held in Douglas after a legislative appropriation granted fund for facilities, premiums and expenses. The event, however, has ties back to 1886 with an event called the First Annual Wyoming Territorial Fair.
    With just over seven months before the big event, preparations and fundraising efforts continue for what is sure to be a event worth attending.
    Mark your calendars to attend State Fair 2012, Aug. 11–18 in Douglas.
    With any questions or to contribute to fundraising efforts, contact 307-358-2398. Saige Albert is editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup and can be reached at saige@wylr.net.