Letter To The Editor: Participating In Open Class At The Nebraska State Fair

Editor,

As the 2010 Nebraska State Fair open class superintendent for needlework, I am excited about the opportunities Nebraskans have to share their time and talents by exhibiting and/or volunteering in the open class departments. Visit www.statefair.org, and click on entry books/open class for details.

Any Nebraska resident may exhibit in open class at the Nebraska State Fair. Entering the same exhibit in a county fair is optional, not a requirement. The online entry books list the items (classes) that can be entered. Paying close attention to entry details will avoid problems when the exhibits are brought to the fair.

Why make an effort to exhibit in open class at the 2010 Nebraska State Fair? An increase in the number of open class exhibits would help take this tradition to a grand level. Viewing the displays gives fair goers a chance to: learn, reminisce, get inspired, feel good about what they’ve done, and to see what Nebraskans are doing with their talents.

Exhibitors benefit too. It’s a chance to display their work for friends, relatives and all the other fair goers. Judge’s comments identify what is well done and provide suggestions and inspiration for improving skills. The awarding of ribbons and sponsored awards varies with departments.

Many departments need volunteers beginning Monday, Aug. 16, through Friday, Aug. 27. During this time exhibits will be received, judged and displayed. Contact the superintendent in the area(s) of interest and ask how you can help. Names and contact information is included in the entry books.

Make plans now to help make the 2010 Nebraska State Fair, “It’s a Grand Affair.” If you live a distance from Grand Island, get a group together and car pool to Grand Island to bring your exhibits.

Have fun too!

Nancy Schmerdtmann,
Grand Island