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SOUTHEAST ARKANSAS DISTRICT FAIR READY TO ‘SADDLE UP’

By Richard Duke/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF
Saturday, September 22, 2007 10:14 PM CDT

If it’s September, it must be time for the fair.

The Southeast Arkansas District Fair, Livestock Show and Rodeo will begin Monday, and the annual event will feature many of the same attractions, shows and rides that have created memories for the past 68 years.

Lewis Hinkle, who has handled publicity for the fair, said attendance expectations range from 60,000-80,000 for the entire week.

“That’s usually what we see, and I don’t think this year will be any different,” he said. “The weather looks great, and we have a lot of old favorites and a few new things for everyone to enjoy.”

New events include a bull riding event on Wednesday that Hinkle said will attract riders from around the riding circuit. Bill McEnaney, a rodeo clown and funnyman who is new to the area, will be featured Thursday and Friday.

Also featured will be a Gospel Quarters Music Show, which will take place Tuesday in the Hestand Arena.

The fair will begin with the downtown street parade, which will kick off at 4:45 p.m. Monday with the theme of “Saddle Up!” The carnival will open at 6 p.m. Monday, with the Jefferson County Talent Show getting started at 6:30 p.m.

Different observances will punctuate the week including Family Night, Student Day and Senior Citizens Day, which will happen Tuesday and Thursday respectively. On Family Night, fairgoers may obtain an arm band that permits them to ride all of the carnival rides from 6-10 p.m.

The judging of fruits, vegetables and livestock will also occur during the week.

“We want the best from all 17 counties represented in every exhibit hall and show barn,” said Dale Dixon, president of the fair board.

Board members have been to area schools giving out free admission tickets to students, but for those wanting regular admission, the price will be $5 for anyone over the age of six.

The Southeast Arkansas District Fairgrounds are located at Hestand Stadium on Blake Street, a short distance from the intersection of U.S. 65 and 79, spanning 26 acres.

Hestand Stadium features a covered arena that can hold up to 7,000 people. The fair represents 17 counties in Southeast Arkansas.

For further information, call 535-2900.

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