I took a look at the calendar this morning and realized that the N.C. State Fair will open in 3 1/2 weeks. And then I almost had a panic attack because right next to the calendar is my ever-growing “To Do” list. Then I took a deep breath and calmed down.
Everytime I run into someone I know, I get asked the same question, “So, are you getting ready for the Fair?” I smile and say, “yeah, you could say something like that.” We’ve been in preparation for the Fair for months, but now is when things really speed up. Honestly, I’m a bit behind on a few projects because October seemed so far away. That’s the reason for my almost panic attack this morning. Opening day isn’t far away at all. And all of my projects are due even sooner. But, I’ve accomplished a lot today, so I’m feeling much better!
Soooo, what’s going on in our world? In the Press Office, we’re putting finishing touches on the press materials. We’ll be mailing out media badges very soon and making final plans for the many different events that we host. We’ll be packing up our desks on Oct. 8 and moving to our temporary home in the Kerr Scott Building. And we’ll be unveiling the 2009 State Fair commercial next week. (Yay!)
Out at the fairgrounds, the entry department is busy because several competition categories have closed already and the rest of the deadlines are coming up.
The landscape crew is busy mulching, pruning, cutting grass and more to make sure the fairgrounds looks as beautiful as possible. I’ll get a video interview with Dudley Baggett, the landscape manager, posted soon. These guys really work hard to make sure everything is perfect on the grounds.
Otherwise, everyone is busy with final preparations: making sure contracts are signed, purchasing needed supplies, printing signs and getting ready to move into exhibits. Things will get more hectic once the Flea Market moves out at the end of the month and vendors start moving in.
Needless to say, things are busy, but we are all looking forward to the 2009 N.C. State Fair and can’t wait for things to get started!
Ditto!!!
One of the greatest honors I have ever had is being asked to be part of the NC State Fair. The crisp breeze, fall colors, sights sounds and smells of the fair, along with all the nice folks – are all so exciting!
I have literally worked pretty much 7 days a week since coming home from the fair last year – preparing for this year. I want my small part of it to be the best that it can be, and have brought up talk about the fair on my website at every opportunity in an effort to help bring in as many folks as I can.
I’ll be bringing some of the most beautiful bowls I’ve ever chopped out and am looking forward to seeing all the nice folks who come by to see my demonstration. Their interest in what I’m doing adds to the excitement I feel at being part of the fair. …18 days and counting !!!