What’s not to like at the Kitsap County Fair? We asked several local elected officials “What is your favorite thing about the fair?” Here’s how they answered:
“My favorite part of the fair is people-watching … all the families, young children all having a good time. The fair is true ‘Americana’… a slice of who we are as a community.” — Becky Erickson, Mayor of Poulsbo
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“When I was a county commissioner, we presented Commissioner Award ribbons to our favorite part of the fair and all four years I selected the 4-H barns with the llamas, goats, sheep and lastly, chickens. It was so exciting to see and hear these aspiring young students describe the history, care and feeding and responsibility for their own animals being taught through the Washington State Extension 4-H Program.
“As a mayor, I still enjoy wandering through these barns and confess I have participated in the pie-eating contest the past two years. The winner selects the nonprofit organization that will receive a $500 donation provided by Gordon Sound.” — Patty Lent, Mayor of Bremerton
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“I would have to say that my favorite part of the fair is the 4-H animal exhibits and auction. Remembering back to my youth when my family and I would go to our county or state fair, I was always drawn to the animals. Having grown up on a small farm, I had an appreciation for the effort that went into caring for the livestock.
“I’m repeatedly impressed by the dedication, knowledge, involvement, passion and compassion that the 4-H youth have when they participate in the program and the annual fair. Walking through the exhibits, it takes me back to my youth and that’s a wonderful gift to receive each year when I attend.” — Robert Gelder, Commissioner, Kitsap County, District 1
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“I love seeing lots of smiles as diverse individuals, families and friends explore fun at the Kitsap County Fair — from food and rides to animals, exhibits, performances, and more.” — Charlotte Garrido, Commissioner, Kitsap County, District 2
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“I particularly enjoy and look forward every year to the Norman Rockwell Life magazine-type of Americana hometown feeling we get, and then always make the Xtreme Bulls [competition] and whoever is there doing the country western show. I enjoyed Luke Bryan a few years ago before he was discovered. This year, one of my favorites, The Marshall Tucker Band, is performing.” — Edward E. Wolfe, Commissioner, Kitsap County, District 3
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“My favorite part of the fair is seeing the results of the hard work that the 4-H groups have done as they exhibit their high-quality animals.” — Axel Strakeljahn, Commissioner, Port of Bremerton
