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Community Life August 4, 2007
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Fair being dedicated to memory of Don Williams, Sandy Lyon

Don Williams
This year's Cameron County Fair is dedicated to the memories of two long-time fair volunteers: Don Williams and Sandy Lyon.

They will be remembered during the brief fair opening ceremonies on Monday night at 6:00.

"I have spent time reflecting on what these and others have meant to our organization and community," said Pat Kempher, president of the Cameron County Fair Association. "It is the volunteer spirit that keeps Cameron County the place that it is. Look around -- at work, at church, in your neighborhood -- and you'll see that volunteers are what help our many wonderful activities survive."

39th Fair

A little over 40 years ago, a group of community-minded Cameron County citizens pulled together to create a countywide gathering where farmers could showcase their products and people could gather to socialize and enjoy family entertainment.

The Cameron County Fair was born!

Despite interruptions caused by war, a flu epidemic and other challenges, the fair remains a popular summertime tradition.

Sandy Lyon
A forerunner of today's fair was held at Keystone Park (now the site of GKN Sinter Metals and Embassy Sintered Metals on Airport Road), sponsored by the Cameron County Agricultural Association.

Much later, in 1967, a committee formed by the Emporium Jaycees took charge of the fair, forged a partnership with the local 4-H organization, and relocated the fair to Pine Street Field.

Just three years later, with the arrival of Motor Coils, a new site was needed. Henry Zimmer, one of the active Jaycees, offered the use of property once occupied by the Smokeless Powder and Picric Acid Plant. Another Jaycee, Paul Abriatis, donated the use of heavy equipment to prepare the land.

Since that time, the fairgrounds have grown to include Beaver Hall exhibition area, named in honor of former fair director Beaver Williams; an animal display barn, 4-H building, concession stand, stage and a 160-foot open front exhibit area.

Renovations are continuing today at Beaver Hall, which is also used for wedding receptions, family reunions and other gatherings.


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