Fair Board re-organizes, plans for the future

In an effort to breathe new life into a longtime local event, there has been a reorganization of the Clay County Fair Association board of directors.

The group, which is made up of some of the former members and some new faces, also has stepped up efforts to promote the annual fair and use of the fairgrounds on the north edge of Piggott.

During a meeting Nov. 10, these individuals were either elected or re-elected to the fair board: Marty Conley, Irene Causey, Danny Seal, Janet Cale, Roger Cale, Shelby Renfro, David Hughes, June Johnson, Sally Howell, Connie Vaughn, Sue Harmon, Ron Sellers, Brenda Stacy and Sandra Little.

"This is my first year on the board, and believe it or not, there are a lot of things I didn't know," Renfro said of the experience after being elected vice president. "I'm the first to raise my hand and say that I wish I would of taken more time to realize that our fair needs a lot of help. I want everyone in Clay County to know that our fair is run by donations only, and that we are a non-profit organization --- no one gets paid. We, as a group, all volunteer our time."

The annual Arkansas Fair Manager's Association Convention was held Jan. 14, 15 and 16 in Hot Springs and several individuals associated with the local board attended. The group included Conley, Causey, Hughes, Renfro and Daniel Burr. The group returned with a renewed sense of purpose and a resolve to involve more of the county in the annual event.

"We are going to try to bring more things to the fair, and we need involvement from all 28 cities, towns and communities in Clay County," Renfro added. "We can turn things around for the fair if everyone helps."

The group has also planned the first annual Clay County Spring Fest, to be held May 7 and 8 at the fairgrounds. The activities will include lawnmower races at 7 p.m. Friday, May 7, and a variety of activities Saturday, May 8. At 10 a.m., there will be an antique tractor show, a poker run for area motorcycle riders will get underway and attractions for the kids will open.

The Fair Association also is seeking vendors or anyone who would like to set up a table for yard sale or flea market items. Table rentals are $10 each. Those who want more information may call Renfro at 324-0075.

Those who would like to make a donation to the fair may mail it to: Clay County Fair Association, 658 East North Street, Piggott, AR 72454.