Doug Clark says it each year – it’s been one of the best fairs ever.

Monday, July 16, 2001

Doug Clark says it each year – it’s been one of the best fairs ever. And this year’s, the 2001 Lawrence County Fair, is no exception, the fair board president said.

"It’s been a good fair for us; I think it’s been a good fair for everybody," he said.

The week started off with some concern. High humidity posed a threat to crowds, and the animals. But Tuesday evening, the weather shifted to dry and mild.

Back-to-back demolition derbies kept gate ticket sales steady; the county horse pull made a good show; and the 4-Hers were having a great time with their projects, Clark said.

Then, with evening temperatures dropping through the 70s, crowds of Lawrence Countians came through the gate for the annual rodeo.

"That night was a record for us," Clark said, meaning in attendance and gate receipts.

Thursday night’s tractor pulls and Friday night’s first-ever Bluegrass concert – with "The Stephens Sisters" – added to the week’s success, he said.

Laura Jane Murphy, 4-H Extension agent, called the split market sales a success, even though there had been concerns.

Other counties had said that they were concerned, too, when they first tried it, afraid the first sale would affect crowds for the second sale, Ms. Murphy said.

But those counties found it successful and it has been successful here, she said.

Clark agreed, adding that the split sales worked well.

In the end, children and families from around Lawrence County have benefited with a learning experience, a week of fun and a few dollars earned for education, he said.

And that’s what it’s all about – the children, Clark said.

"Overall? It was a nice fair."