Fair board begins planning for 2014 fair

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Fall meetings of the Senior Fair Board often focus on advance planning for the following
year’s county fair. Thursday’s October meeting was no exception.Members made plans for the upcoming
state convention, as well as pondering possible changes and upgrades for the 2014 Wood County Fair.Among
the items addressed was the possibility of installing 28 center handrails in the grandstand. One bid
estimate was submitted in the amount of $12,760. Board members decided to get additional estimates and
evaluate whether the need justifies the expense.Board secretary and fair manager Dick King said it was
his understanding that regulations do not require they have those handrails as those grandstands are
“grandfathered in” and thus not required.Though King and other board members know the value of having
handrails to assist fairgoers to climb up the into the grandstands, they also noted the narrow aisles
which would be further narrowed with the handrails being installed.Because the grandstands are wood,
board members also shared concerns about safety and liability matters should the handrails start to work
loose from the boards over time. It was also noted how a man needed medical attention near the top of
the grandstand last summer. Had those rails been in place it would have made it more difficult to get
him down for treatment.Members decided to look further into the matter including obtaining additional
bids. If installed, the cost would likely be shared with the Northwest Ohio Tractor Pullers’
Association.King also noted the previous discussion about a possible fire department building to be
constructed near the horse barns at the north end of the fairgrounds. The discussion was tabled at the
September meeting pending obtaining additional details about the fundraising for the building, costs,
etc.King said despite the fact the firefighters volunteer their time, the fair pays each department $150
for their service to the fair. For those who may not know, the fairgrounds abuts Bowling Green City
limits but is technically not in the city. Despite that, the fairgrounds has an agreement with the city
for fire and emergency protection. The township and other departments who assist during the fair provide
additional coverage.King also noted the EMS departments are paid by their departments through the
county’s fireman’s association.Entertainment chairman Dave Nietz announced they will meet with the
promoter this week to consider grandstand entertainment.The board also approved the purchase of 50 new
folding chairs for the Junior Fair Building.Due to the upcoming holidays, the November meeting will be
held a week early on Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. The December meeting will also advance one week to Dec. 19. That
will be the annual meeting and will include dinner which will be served at 6:30 p.m.

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