Great Northern Fairgrounds prepped for autumn events

The Great Northern Fair Board approved work to replace the roof on their commercial buildings at its monthly meeting Tuesday evening where members also discussed a host of upcoming events.

Board Vice Chair Bob Kaul said their commercial building roofs are starting to see a bit of wear and tear and they are hoping to have them replaced before winter to prevent any issues during the months of difficult weather the area is likely to get.

A second set of new bathrooms have also arrived, but installation may have to wait until after winter, board members said.

Indeed, a great deal of work at the fairgrounds is underway to prepare for the winter months, especially the waterlines, Fairgrounds Manager Frank English said.

English said the horse barn has also been cleaned out for winter and they are beginning to move things into storage for the seasonal weather.

As for other work on the grounds, he said the floor has been fixed and their carpet cleaned in their rental property but work on drywall and painting continues and must be finished before it becomes available.

Work continues to repair the horse barn's doors, he said, and the Bigger Better Barn is having electrical work done, including the installation of illuminated exit signs above the doors and new breaker boxes.

He said he's also purchased new cameras and worked on their PA system.

English and members of the board also discussed upcoming events, including the Circus Monster Mash Friday, the Beaver Creek Jam Saturday, a Little Texas Concert Oct. 26, and Trunk or Treat on Halloween.

English said preparations are still being made for the Trunk or Treat and he's still collecting donations, but it's shaping up to be massive this year.

The board also talked about a Hi-Line Rodeo which will be Oct. 28 and 29.

"The place is pretty busy," said board member Ken Erickson.

Board Chair Michelle Burchard said the fair's finances are in order, they are on target on their budget and she's very happy the fair has a full-time secretary again.

Burchard also said she, English and other board members would also be attending the Rocky Mountain Association of Fairs soon, which is always a valuable event.

Due to logistical issues, she said, the next meeting of the board will be a week earlier than normal, Nov. 14.