Great Northern Fair sees near-record numbers

Rick Johnson races down the track in his Chevrolet "Bad Bowtie" at the Great Northern Fairs' Pro West professional truck pull Saturday night in Havre. In this run, Johnson pulled the sled 452.01 feet, good enough for first place in the 4WD category. For more on the truck pulls at the Great Northern Fair, see Tuesday's Havre Daily News.

With the end of this year's Great Northern Fair, most people are still recovering from the multitude of deep-fried indulgences, while organizers and officials marvel at this year's success.

Tim Solomon, Havre Mayor and Great Northern Fair manager, said that this was one of the best fairs held.

"It was a great fair, " Solomon said. "There was perfect weather. People came out very strong to support it.

"It was bigger than last year. "

Hill County Commissioner Jeff LaVoi said he was astounded by this year's attendance.

"When I was up there it was unbelievable with the attendance, judging by the crowds and the parking lot, " LaVoi said. "I'm sure the numbers had to be up. "

Solomon said that they didn't have a way to count exact attendance numbers. It was bigger than last year, he said, but they weren't sure yet if it beat 2008 as the biggest year ever.

He also said that the entertainment and events drew impressive crowds and reactions, from the free day-time entertainment, with the ventriloquist act Matilda and Patrick and the Sweeney Family Band, to the evening entertainment, with the rodeo, truck pull and demolition derby.

LaVoi said he saw that positive response in his time there.

"I did attend the rodeo on Friday night and that sure seemed successful, " LaVoi said. "They were lining up for the derby last night. "

He also noted the success of the 4H market livestock sale, in which he participated. The sale lasted for four hours and brought in around $186,000.

This morning Solomon expressed his gratitude to the community and the fair's organizers.

"I just want to thank all of the supporters who supported us, " Solomon said.