Concessionaires

Interested In being a vendor at the Fair? Call the North Dakota State Fair Office and let us know you are interested.


There are three commercial buildings and outdoor spaces for a variety of 612 spaces. Outdoor space varies according to size and location, but an indoor 8 x 10 space is $350. All vendors need to have a signed license and one million dollar liability insurance. 50% of the space cost is required when the license is issued. Gate admission is not included in the rental cost.

Normally there are more applications for space than space available. The applications will be reviewed on a first come first serve basis. The North Dakota State Fair will exercise its best judgment in determining what is best for the Fair and its patrons.

For further information call (701) 857-7620.

State Fair Responds to Public Concerns

Recent events at the North Dakota State Fair have raised many questions within our community and state. As the State Fair’s acting manager, I want to directly address these concerns. I’ve been with the State Fair for the past thirty-five years and I’ve never known North Dakota to let our Fair down.  


Let me be clear: The North Dakota State Fair is deeply committed to bringing in the biggest names in entertainment. Our staff and board are unwavering in providing a concert line-up that is second to none. This was, of course, the driving push behind the construction of the Fair’s new grandstand. Countless individuals from across the state and community leaders made this project a reality. North Dakota taxpayers made an investment in this project and I can promise them that they will get a return on their investment.  


I can also assure all Fairgoers that we will do everything we can to ensure that our State Fair remains affordable. Due to our state’s small population it is important that Fairgoers visit more than once. The current show pass allows us to draw people back for second and third visits at a price that would normally be paid for only one concert ticket.  This is important to the Fair’s financial success. And we will continue to do all that we can to keep the Fair affordable to families.  

Affordability and top-notch entertainment are not mutually exclusive and neither is putting on a Fair that has something for everyone. Our State Fair’s roots are, like our state’s roots, in agriculture; they always will be. But staying true to our roots doesn’t mean that we cannot have the best in concerts, motor events, carnival rides, shows, food, vendors and exhibits. The work of putting on the best possible State Fair requires us to provide the best possible experience for all ages and for everyone across North Dakota.  


The State Fair Board deserves credit for laying out the vision that has resulted in the Fair’s success in recent years. That success has been the result of the hard work of a team of professionals, many who don’t receive the recognition, but who have made this vision a reality. From the Fair board to the office staff to the groundskeepers to our marketing team, ours has been, and will remain, a collaborative effort. The work of the Fair is bigger than any one person and everyone can be assured that our work to provide the finest, most affordable, event in the state and region will continue without interruption.  


Sincerely,

Renae Korslien 
Interim General Manager,  
North Dakota State Fair

North Dakota State Fair Receives Five International Awards

(Minot, ND) The North Dakota State Fair has received five first place Awards of Excellence from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) headquartered in Springfield, MO.
The North Dakota State Fair received a first place Agriculture Award in the Overall Program for Commercial Agricultural Exhibitors category and brought home three first place Communication Awards for its 2009 advertising campaign. First place awards received were for Color Newspaper Advertisement, Magazine Advertisement and Printed Promotional Material – Brochure / Flyer. The final awards won by the Fair included a first place Competitive Exhibits Award in the General Competitive Exhibit Display Photo and the Competitive Exhibits Award of Excellence, for the Fair’s overall entries in the Competitive Exhibits category.
The awards were presented during the 119th annual IAFE Convention held in Las Vegas, Nevada. There are a total of 13 Agriculture award categories, 15 Communication Awards and 10 Competitive Exhibits categories, each divided into 5 divisions based on attendance. The entries are evaluated and judged by a team of industry leaders, selected from the membership of the IAFE.

Pic of the Day

The North Dakota State Fair is always looking for fan photos of the Fair. By submitting your favorite photos to ashley@ndstatefair.com.com your picture could become one of our famous Pic of the Days. This means your snapshot will be published on our Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter accounts for other Fair fans to see. Make sure to include your name and where you are from when you send in your photos.


By submitting your photos you are giving The North Dakota State Fair rights to utilize your photo, which means your talent could land you a spot on the North Dakota State Fair website, in the newspaper, on a billboard, in a magazine or in a brochure. If we use your photograph to advertise the Fair you’ll even win NDSF Swag!

Submit your photos now and check back daily to see if you have won bragging rights as the State Fair photo of the day!

2009 NDSF Annual Meeting

On Wednesday, November 18th, the North Dakota State Fair welcomed 18 guests and 68 delegates to its Annual Meeting at the State Fair Center in Minot. Gary Knell, State Fair Board President, began the meeting with a short welcome on behalf of the City of Minot and by introducing the eight State Fair board members whom he serves alongside. The board members in attendance included Charles Meikle of Spiritwood, Lee Ann Karsky of Dickinson, Kandi Mikkelson of Minot, Neil Fleming of Cavalier, Dennis Wendel of LaMoure, Connie Hanson of Devils Lake, Butch Haugland of Ambrose and Kelly Hanson of Hannaford.

The annual report and audit were reviewed by State Fair Manager, Bob Wagoner. Wagoner also went over 2009 State Fair highlights and complimented the staff for their work on the record setting Fair. Wagoner predicts another successful Fair for 2010, which is scheduled for July 23 through July 31.

Each year the State Fair Board of Directors nominates individuals to receive the State Fair's highest level of honor and recognition by being chosen as a North Dakota State Fair Honorary Member. This year Senator Karen Krebsbach of Minot and Tim Clark of Fargo were both awarded this honor.

The State Fair is exceptionally grateful for Senator Krebsbach's on-going support of all things State Fair. Krebsbach led the charge helping rally support for the State funding of the Grandstand. Tim Clark served on the North Dakota State Fair Board for more than 16 years. Representing District 2, he took a special interest in keeping agriculture at the heart of the Fair.

Other business covered at the annual meeting included the re-election of three board members. Neil Fleming, Connie Hanson and Gary Knell will serve another term representing their districts. Jerry Iverson, former North Dakota State Fair Manager and current Grandstand Project Manager, was in attendance to provide an update on the grandstand construction progress. Iverson stated the exceptional weather has been the key attribute for keeping the project on schedule and within budget. Iverson also commented on the uniqueness of this project as a construction manager has been hired and 27 different bid requests have been utilized to ensure not only adherence to the budget but also ensure the completion by July 1, 2010.

Dates for the 2010 North Dakota State Fair are July 23-31. We’re hoping to announce our 2010 concert lineup in January! More information is available at www.ndstatefair.com.

American Music Awards

As you all may know, the American Music Awards were on ABC last night and some of the North Dakota State Fair’s talent were among the winners. Taylor Swift won many titles, unsurprisingly, but her big accomplishment was winning Artist of the Year and beating Michael Jackson in the process. The other titles she has under her belt include Country’s Favorite Album and Favorite Female Artist, Adult Contemporary Favorite Artist, and Pop Rock Favorite Female Artist. The group Gloriana had some glory of their own last night when they won the fan voted award, T-Mobile BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST.

Click HERE for the AMA's homepage.

Grandstand Photo Slideshow

State Farm's Gator Giveaway

Last month State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance gave away a child size John Deere Gator to Chasity Sevland of rural Granville.

Local State Fair Agents, Michael E. Braun and Kellie Thorman along side State Fair Manager Bob Wagoner were on hand to present Chasity's daughters Taylor, age 10 and Hunter, age 4 with her prize.

As a part of their sponsorship at the 2010 North Dakota State Fair they not only sponsored the Aussie Kingdom but they also manned a very successful commercial booth where they promoted their products and services as well as allowed individuals to register for the gator.

Grand time for Grandstand!

The Grandstand constuction remains to be on schedule on going well, the Minot Daily reported last Friday. Kim Fundingsland had the scoop and the newest updates from the architect:

        The target date for completion of the new grandstand being constructed at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot is July 1, 2010, just a few weeks before the start of the State Fair.
        The latest news from the architect is that the project remains on schedule and that the recent spell of nice weather deserves a portion of the credit.
        "Things are going really well," said Brian Berg, of Zerr-Berg Architects of Fargo. "We're proceding with concrete work and should have the underground foundation wrapped up by the end of the week. We're a quarter of the way into the steel framework below the stadium plank steel. We'll be halfway by (Monday) on the steel."
        Berg said he expected weather-related delays, but the construction crews have been able to take advantage of favorable conditions and keep the building project on schedule. Similar weather conditions in Grand Forks have also proven beneficial to the grandstand project. A Grand Forks firm responsible for making the precast sections to which the seats will eventually be anchored has completed its work. All of the sections are ready for shipment to the Minot site as soon as necessary.
        "We are looking forward to setting more steel in next month, the part below the risers. Then we'll start setting the steel for the overhead canopy. Sometime in late winter the highest part will go on," said Berg.
        Barring extreme winter conditions, Berg said he expects construction to continue. Most of the exterior of the grandstand will be covered by metal panels. A good portion of the masonary work is already complete and will be finished entirely once the overhead steel is in place.
        "Everything below 14 feet is masonary," said Berg. "Once things start getting enclosed we'll be able to pour more concrete and work on the interior."
        The new grandstand will have seating for approximately 7,000 people underneath the canopy. The     old grandstand had seating for 3,200 under a partial canopy and exposed bleacher seating for an additional 2,000.
        The 2010 North Dakota State Fair runs July 23-31.

To get more news from the Minot Daily crew go to http://www.minotdailynews.com/!

Weekend Festivities

Don't miss the Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase and the Magic City Flea Market taking place at the State Fair Center this Saturday Nov. 14th and Sunday the 15th. It is $2.00 to enter and will be from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, 11am to 5pm on Sunday. Stop in to buy those unique holiday gift ideas such as clothing, accessories, food and condiments, antiques, coins, collectibles, toys, tools, books, crafts, baked goods and more! For more information about the Flea Market contact Rich Timboe at 701-852-1289. Click HERE to view more about the Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcase.

It's HOCKEY Time

Hockey season is here! The MHS girls hockey team's first home game is at 7:00pm on November 24th and the first boys home game is November 28th, with JV at 5:15pm and Varsity at 7:30pm.
If you want to make it to every home game of the season you can check out the North Dakota State Fair Center website or go to the team's websites for their season schedules:

MHS Boys Hockey

MHS Girls Hockey

MSU Club Hockey

The Beaver's are currently 9-1 this season and doing well! Their next home game is December 5th at 7:30pm at the All Seasons Arena. Come watch as everlasting rivalry continues when Minot State takes on their sister school Dakota College of Bottineau.

Open Skating at the ASA

Winter is approaching, but the good news is that open skating is starting at the All Seasons Arena. The first day of open skating will be Wednesday, November 11th from noon to 2pm. Saturday the 14th and Sunday the 15th will also be open to skate from 1 to 3pm.
If you don’t own you own skates, don’t fret! We offer skate rentals and skate sharpening for only $2.oo per pair.

The open skating schedule will be posted soon on the Minot Rec Commission Calendar. For further questions about open skating call (701) 857-4730.
Above is a picture of the NDSF grounds crew putting in the lines for the hockey rink. Did you know they were made out of a type of paper??

Happy Halloween from the State Fair Staff

All work and no play makes for a grumpy State Fair staff. Therefore we thought it to be pretty important to create a Halloween Monster Mash - Up from Oriental Trading Company. Click on NDSF Monster Mash to check out our staff do the Monster Mash in honor of Halloween. From our staff to yours Happy Halloween!

Miss Rodeo North Dakota 2010

The North Dakota State Fair would like to congratulate Ashley Geisenger of Bottineau, ND, our 2009 Miss Rodeo Queen. She was crowned Miss Congeniality at the Miss Rodeo North Dakota 2010 competition on Sunday at the Ys Men’s PRCA Badlands Circuit Finals.

Tiffany Kuntz of Bismarck, took the title. The current Miss Rodeo, Jessinta Hammer, of Kathryn, will reign for the remainder of this year until Kuntz takes her place next year. The first runner-up is Samantha Stanke, Miss Rodeo North Dakota Winter Show, West Fargo. Sadie Wardner, Miss Rodeo Mandan, Coleharbor, won the written test.

The Miss Rodeo pageants continue to be a great way for people to stay involved in the western way of life and for rodeo enthusiasts to come together.

Y’s Mens Rodeo Recap

If you didn’t make it to the Rodeo last night, it’s still not too late to get in on the action. Today from 10am to 8pm in the Upper Attrium of the State Fair Center is the Badlands Cowboy Christmas. Be sure to stop by to get your Tough Enough To Wear Pink t-shirts, so you can sport them tonight. The pre-show and the rodeo will begin at 6:30pm. If you haven’t bought your tickets yet you can still purchase them at the Y’s Mens booth in the Dakota Square Mall, by calling their ticket line (701) 852-5577, or you can purchase them in the front lobby of the State Fair Center starting at 5pm.

Tough Enough to Wear Pink gear for sale:

T-shirt: $10.00

Women’s Cut: $15.00

Koozie: $3.00

Bracelet: $2.00
Hats: $15.00

Keep your eye on our Facebook page today for your chance to win rodeo tickets. If you are the first to answer our trivia question correctlly you’ll be the lucky winner! For more information about the Y's Mens or other State Fair Center events click here.

Y's Men's Presents Business After Hours

The Y's Men's are showing some country hospitality again by hosting the October Chamber Business After Hours at the State Fair Center. The event takes place on Wednesday, October 7th from 5pm - 7pm. There will be dinner, drinks and tons of door prizes! The cost is $5 at the door and the event will take place in the Lower Atrium. Don't miss out on this great networking event!

Grandstand Update from the Boss

Ever since the concluding fireworks of the 2009 North Dakota State Fair, the staff and grounds have been a flurry of activity.   The salvaging of some elements and demolition of the balance of the grandstand was all finished in short order.  Driving the pilings, excavating and beginning the concrete work is all currently underway.   The North bleacher section was left intact to accommodate the Nodak Racing schedule, which closed out the season with races as part of the  Labor Day weekend Motor Magic event.

The bids for the third bid group are being opened on September 10, 2009.   This being the biggest of the bid groups for the grandstand project will provide a great measure for keeping the project on budget.   The grandstand will include 7,082 seats under a roof with 8,000  general admission standing between the grandstand and stage.   The grandstand will feature some 180 toilet fixtures, 22,000 sq ft of spacious concourses, concession areas, and an upscale  pub area with an indoor/outdoor capacity of 450.   The state fair board recently named the new pub “The Carousel”.   The Carousel, along with the restrooms that service it will be heated and air-conditioned for year round use. 

The grand opening will be Friday July 23, 2010.  The entertainment lineup for the grandstand’s inaugural season is currently being negotiated, and I assure you it will be worthy of this great addition to your State Fair.

- Bob Wagoner, NDSF General Manager

Let's talk Rodeo!

The Minot Y's Men's Rodeo is only 1 week away but there are still plenty of tickets left. In their 55th year and 3rd year as being a PRCA Rodeo the Y's Men are bringing out the big guns. From Mutton bustin to Ranch Rodeo, Barrel Racing and Cowboy Christmas there's something for everyone to get excited about. They are also bringing in some big names. The Announcer will be 8-time PRCA Announcer of the Year, 21-time WNFR Announcer, PRCA Hall of Fame and Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee Mr. Bob Tallman. The Barrelman will be 5-time PRCA Comedy Act of the Year, 4-time WNFR Barrelman and 1-time Coors Man of the Year Mr. Troy Lerwill.

We're hiring!

The North Dakota State Fair is hiring a full time Marketing Assistant. Position responsibilities will include: organizing and coordinating events, marketing and promoting the All Seasons Arena and State Fair Center, updating social media applications, producing marketing/advertising materials, attracting sponsors and performing general office duties. Individuals must be detail orientated, have the ability to work on multiple projects, posses strong organizational skills, computer skills as well as excellent oral and written communication skills. Marketing or event coordination experience or related degree is preferred.

Please send resume and cover letter to:

North Dakota State Fair, Attn: Shannon Pearson, PO Box 1796, Minot, ND 58702

Ole and Lena

In honor of Host Fest starting tonight it only seems fitting for a few Ole and Lena jokes!

• When Ole and Lena were young and in love they would got to their favorite spot to park. One night while hugging and kissing Ole asks Lena, "Lena how would you like to go in the back?" "No," she replies. So they hug and kiss some more. Again, Ole asks Lena to go in the back. Lena replies, "Ole, why are you always asking me to go in the back, I want to stay in front with you!"

• Little Ole was sitting at the kitchen table doing his homework. He had a puzzled look on his face at he considered the assignment that was due--writing an essay about his origin. He turned to question his mother. "Mama, vere did Grandma come from?" he asked. "Da stork brought her," answered mama Lena. "And vere did yew come from?" asked Little Ole. "Da stork brought me," his mother answered. "And vere did I come from?" Little Ole inquired. "Vell, son, da stork brought yew, tew," mama Lena replied. With a scowl on his face, Little Ole picked up his pencil, turned to his school tablet, and began writing his essay: "Dere have been no natural births in our family for t'ree yenerations."

Thanks to Visit Minnesota for these jokes!

Uffda! That's a lot of Entertainment!

The 2009 Norsk Host Fest is over flowing with top entertainment! Which explains why they've even had to add another building for an additional stage! If you can't make it to the big concerts featuring Reba, Clint Black, George Jones, Frankie Valli or Ray Stevens, make sure to check out the free entertainment that takes place constantly! Acts this year include: Oak Ridge Boys, Church Basement Ladies, Adbacadabra - the Ultimate ABBA concert, Monroe Crossing, Tom Netherton, Williams & Ree, JoAnn Castle, The Peking Acrobats, Bjoro Halland, The Peking Acrobats, Ringling 5, The Western Senators, Leah Durelle, Memphis, Kerry Christensen - Master Yodeler, The Putnam Guitar Duo, The Korsliens, Radio Stars, Kentucky Riders, Chmielewski Fun Time Band,Zelda Nera, Kathy Bender, Taylor Dayne Falcon, Tom Patton as Elvis, elevenAM Gospel Band, Bunad Show, Bussi, Parade of Flags Skalmusik, Norsk Hostfest Accordion Club Band and Gordy Lindquist! That's ALOT of action!

Tough Enough to Wear Pink Parties

Haven't made it to one of the Minot Y's Men's Tough Enough to Wear Pink parties yet? You're running out of time!!!! Stop by one of the following events to show your support and while you're there you can pick up this year's TETWP products!

Wednesday, September 23 – Trinity Skywalk, 11-1pm

􀂾 Thursday, September 24 – Minot Family YMCA, 5-7pm

􀂾 Saturday, September 26 – Y’s Men’s Ticket Booth at Dakota Square, 10-Noon

􀂾 Saturday, September 26 – MSU Homecoming Parade, 10:30am

􀂾 Monday, September 28 – Behm’s Truck Stop, 4-6pm

􀂾 Tuesday, September 29 – Town & Country Credit Union, 11-1pm

􀂾 Thursday, October 1 – Cenex of Stanley, 11-1pm

􀂾 Tuesday, October 6 – TR’s Bar & Grill, 5-7pm ??? TBA

􀂾 Wednesday, October 7 – Y’s Men’s Business After Hours at Atrium of ND State Fair Center, 5:30-7:30pm

􀂾 Friday, October 9 – Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo Performance at NDSFC, 6:30pm

Win Shinedown Tickets!

Tune in to the following stations to win yourself some Shinedown tickets before Wednesday's concert on September 16th! Just in case you don't win, buy your tickets at the State Fair Office before Wednesday for only $26 (cash only) before the price jumps up to $30 the day of the concert.

Z94 in Minot

105.3 the Fox in Minot

93.1 the Eagle in Sidney, MT

96.7 the Rock in Devils Lake, ND

Motor Magic Recap

The Fairgrounds were shakin' with excitement as Motor Magic rolled into Minot last weekend! The sun was shining and the Fairgrounds were packed with racing and car enthusiasts. From the races on the Magic City International Dragway to those on the Nodak circle track, crowds were in heaven! Other popular events included the Dakota Cruisers Classic Car Show, SCCA Auto Cross, SIDNE, Historical Military Vehicle Display, Classic Car Auction and an antique snowmobile racing display. Motor Magic was the perfect ending to a terrific race season! Click here to visit the Motor Magic Facebook page and see all of the 2009 event photos!

Seasonal Vehicle Storage

Whether it's your vintage '69 Camaro your 45ft Motorhome or your speed boat we've got room for you! The North Dakota State Fairgrounds offers indoor storage for seasonal vehicles at competitive rates. Items for storage can be dropped off anytime except September 24th - October 12th. Picking up seasonal items occurs in late April.

Rates:

Under 10 feet $100

10ft - 16ft $160

16ft - 25ft $190

25ft - 31ft $220

31ft - 35ft $285

Units over 35 feet add $5 per foot. Units over 9 feet wide will be charged double.

Limited space is available for units over 11 feet 6 inches high. Please indicate height when reserving your space.

Call 701-857-7620 today to reserve your space!

Norsk Hostfest 2009 Concert Lineup

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Tuesday, Sept. 29, 7:00 PM
Oh, what a story. Frankie Valli, who came to fame in 1962 as the lead singer of the Four Seasons, is hotter than ever in the 21st century. Thanks to the volcanic success of the Tony-winning musical Jersey Boys, which chronicles the life and times of Frankie and his legendary group, such classic songs as “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Rag Doll,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” are all the rage all over again.

Clint Black

Wed, Sept 30, 1:00 PM & Thurs, Oct 1, 7:30 PM
Clint Black is a profound, not to mention prolific, songwriter. To date, he has

written, recorded and released more than 100 songs, a benchmark in any artist's career. An astounding one-third of the songs eligible for single release achieved hit song status at country radio.

Reba McEntire

Wed, Sept 30, 7:30 PM & Thurs, Oct 1, 1:00 PM
From the moment you hear the voice, you know it: fierce and powerful, clear and passionate, a voice that could belong to no one else but the woman millions of fans the world over know only as Reba.

George Jones
Fri, Oct 2, 7:30 PM & Sat, Oct 3, 1:00 PM
GEORGE GLENN JONES was born in 1931 in the East Texas town of Saratoga. As a kid he sang for tips on the streets of nearby Beaumont. By age 24, he had been married twice, served in the Marines and was a veteran of the Texas honky-

tonk circuit.

Ray Stevens
Fri, Oct 2, 1:00 PM & Sat, Oct 3, 7:30 PM
Ray Stevens just thinks funny. His humor is keenly observant and rich in nuance. His style is unaffected and unpretentious which for the past fifty years has allowed for entertainment that is both witty and guileless. From his multi-million selling comedy hit, “The Streak” to the socially aware “Mr. Businessman” to his Grammy award winning pop standard “Everything Is Beautiful” his talent has touched so many.

Win Motor Magic Tickets!

Looking to score some free Motor Magic tickets? Look no further than KMOT-TV (Minot NBC affiliate) or tune into the Bismarck Clear Channel stations!

KMOT will be giving away one all-access Motor Magic Pass each day during the 6pm and 10pm news, tune in and call in to win a pass that gets you into all of the Motor Magic events and races for free!

You can also listen to Bismarck clear channel stations such as KFYR, ESPN and KYYY (Y-93) to win tickets to each of the individual events including: Magic City International Dragway Races, Nodak Races, Enduro and Demo Derby Races and the Dakota Cruisers Classic Car Show.

3rd Annual Youth Outdoor Festival

Bring the kids and head down to the North Dakota State Fairgrounds on Thursday for the 3rd Annual Youth Outdoor Festival from 5:30 - 7:30pm.

Local wildlife clubs will host outdoor activities for area youth. Events will include waterfowl, upland game, fishing, archery and more outdoor activities! Come join in for outdoor education, BBQ, prizes and more!

Outdoor education, BBQ & Prizes provided by: - Bremer Outdoors Team - Ducks Unlimited - ND Game and Fish - Pheasants for the Future - West Dakota Water Fowlers - Minot Area Youth Sportsmen's Club, Inc. - Souris Valley Bowmen - Berthold Sportsmen Club - Scheels - Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - National Wild Turkey Federation - The Mule Deer Foundation

Tough Enough To Wear Pink?

The Minot Y’s Men, in cooperation with Trinity Health, SRT, and Minot’s community radio stations WGO, the ZOO and Sunny 101 invite you to join in an important and unique project.

Our Tough Enough To Wear Pink Campaign continues to raise funds to provide patients access to Trinity Health’s new cancer exercise rehab program at the Minot Family YMCA. This innovative new program offers dramatic results in the quality of life and rehabilitation for those fighting cancer.

It’s easy to help. Just be watching and listening for Pink Party Locations and look for our TETWP Pickup Truck, courtesy of the Ryan Automotive Group.

We’ll be making stops all over town, selling our “New” TETWP t-shirts, hats, bracelets and ribbons. Or just stop by to make a donation or say hello. 100% of all proceeds will go to this program which benefits patients in our community.

Last year over $43,000 was raised, which was the 7th highest in the nation!

Best of all, your help will make you feel good in knowing that you helped make a difference in someone else’s life!

Upcoming parties include:

􀂾 Tuesday, September 1 – Enerbase on N. Broadway from, 10-Noon

􀂾 Thursday, September 3 – American Bank Center, Dakota Square, 1-3pm

􀂾 Tuesday, September 8 – Choice Hotels, 10-12pm

􀂾 Wednesday, September 9 – Affinity First Federal Credit Union, 4-6pm

􀂾 Thursday, September 10 – the Flower Box, 11-1pm

Don't miss the 55th Annual Minot Y's Men's Rodeo at the State Fair Center October 8 - 11, 2009!

Shinedown at the All Seasons Arena

Shinedown will rock the All Seasons Arena in the State Fair Center on Wendesday, September 16th at 7:00pm. Tickets are on sale now for $26 at the State Fair Center box office, by calling 1-800-882-4275 or order online here. This concert is open to all ages with all seating and standing room general admisison. Get your tickets in advance! The day of the concert tickets are $30 each. Special guests include the bands Sick Puppies, Cavo and Adelitas Way. Doors open at 6:00pm.

Now Hiring for a Temporary Position!

Our amazing receptionist Stacy is having a baby! We are looking to fill a part-time / full-time receptionist position available for 12-14 weeks to fill in while she is on maternity leave. Hours include Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm. Duties include answering phone, helping customers at the window, bank and mail runs, filing and other office duties. Position to start immediately. Please complete an official NDSF application by hand and mail to:

North Dakota State Fair
Attn: Kristie Moldenhauer
P.O. Box 1796
Minot, ND 58702

Call 857-7620 with questions.

Motor Magic just around the corner

With our staff hard at work putting together year end reports and making notes on how we can make next year's Fair better, the bussle doesn't just stop. Last week the State Fair Center was host to the Great Tomato Festival as a fundraiser for Taube Museum, and we have had plenty of wedding receptions as well! The Grandstand construction is well under way and completely removed by this point, and we are staging for the largest auto event in the midwest, Minot's Motor Magic!

Motor Magic is an all weekend affair, September 4-7th, that's Labor Day weekend and what better way to utilize and extra day off than spend some time in the last little bit of sunny weather. There will be Drag Racing, an Enduro Race, a Demolition Derby, Circle Track Racing, SCCA Autocross, Classic Car Show, Classic Car Auction, a Motorcycle Poker Run, Historical Military Vehicles AND MORE!

Check out the website for complete information! See you then!
http://www.motormagic.net/

Who is Freddie??

We all know that Freddie the Flickertail is the gregarious North Dakota State Fair mascot, however some of you may be asking yourselves…who is Freddie, how did he become the NDSF mascot, and what exactly is a Flickertail??? Here is an inside look into NDSF history.

Freddie came to us as a young tail. His family had been traveling with Murphy Brothers Circus for many generations. Freddie’s mother was the bearded lady and his father was the famous “Flick the Clown”. When Freddie turned 8 years old he went to his mother and told her he did not want to travel anymore. He had fallen in love with the North Dakota State Fair and he wanted to make it his permanent home. The Fair office was flattered and offered Freddie the high honor of being the NDSF mascot. Freddie’s parents were so proud that they let him stay and, of course, they see Freddie every year at Fair time.

What a coincidence that North Dakota is nicknamed the Flickertail State and Freddie is a Flickertail! North Dakota seems to attract these creatures, which may be why Freddie decided to stay. According to Wikipedia, the Richardson's ground squirrel, or the Flickertail, is a North American ground squirrel in the genus Spermophilus. Ground squirrels are sometimes called "Dak Rats" or "gophers". Like many ground squirrels, Freddie lives in a burrow on the Fair grounds when he is done with his annual mascot duties.

Freddie has called the North Dakota State Fair home every since we can remember. We are very lucky to have such a devoted mascot. Now that you know more about Freddie, be sure to wave next time you see him bouncing around the Fair grounds.

If you have pictures with our lovable mascot send them to ashley@ndstatefair.com to become our Pic of the Day!

Spud

Meet Spud. He is our pet grass head. The 4-H extension service table under the tent at Fox 24 Family Day was nice enough to allow us to participate in their activity and this is what we made. He was born Tuesday, July 28th, 2009. With in days he was already showing maturity in his germination and sprouted some wise little hairs.

Fairwell to the ND State Fair!!!

What A Ride is right!!! That is exactly what my summer felt like and would not change it for the world! For the past 3 months, I have been a marketing intern here at the North Dakota State Fair. I remember my first few day here when they gave me my list of projects to tackle for the Fair. I was in shock because I thought there was no way I would be able to plan over fifteen different events in two short months. Now that the Fair is over and I am in my final hours, I look back and said to myself why was I freaking out, it was not that bad. I had time to spare. Ok more like hours to spare. Throughout everything, I always had a smile on my face and loved to get up every morning and come to work. It has been truly a great experience and I have learned a great deal. I could not have done it without my other half, intern # .5, Ashley!! Thanks for so many great memories!

Devin
Intern #1

Grandstand Demolition

The Grandstand is shrinking and the demolition crews sure aren't working slow. The demolition is expected to be completed soon so that construction can begin. It is an awefully amazing process and the tractors have a way of appearing graceful as they destroy thousands of pounds of steal. The series of photos seen here depict the original grandstand as it stood during the Fair just two short weeks ago, one of yesterday early and late afternoon and one taken just moments ago, today August 13th, 2009.

The North Dakota State Fair Wants Your Opinion

(Minot, ND) The 2009 North Dakota State Fair was packed with incredible concerts, top-rated exhibits, crazy contests and delicious Fair food. Officials are now seeking input to make the Fair even bigger and better in 2010. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve the Fair experience for attendees and the best way to do that is by getting their opinions,” said Bob Wagoner, General Manager. An online e-survey welcomes Fairgoers to share comments and suggestions from their experience at this summer’s Fair. “Even individuals who were unable to attend the 2009 event are encouraged to participate in the survey,” said Wagoner.

Visit www.ndstatefair.com/survey/ to access and complete the survey. Individuals who do not have Internet access can call the State Fair Office at 857-7620 to complete the survey. Everyone who completes the questionnaire will be entered for a chance to win concert tickets to the 2010 North Dakota State Fair. Survey responses will be accepted until August 31, 2009.

Dates for the 2010 North Dakota State Fair are July 23- 31. As North Dakota’s largest annual event, it delivers nine days of concerts, 4-H and FFA exhibits, commercial booths, motor events, rodeo, livestock and food. For more information call 701-857-7620 or visit http://www.ndstatefair.com/

Wahl Walkabout Tour with Clinton Anderson

Want to be the best rider that you can be? Like your horses to be safer and more respectful? Looking for new training techniques? Join world-renowned trainer and RFD-TV personality Clinton Anderson at a Wahl Walkabout Tour on August 22-23, 2009! Each of the tour stops is a non-stop, no-holds barred, two day learning packed equine extravaganza you won't want to miss. Tickets are available on his website http://www.downunderhorsemanship.com/index.cfm for $25 in advance!

Judges Sniff Out A Winner

Our first annual Odor Eaters Rotten Sneaker Contest was a smelly success. A total of 12 kids signed up to participate in this event and all of them had very stinky shoes. The judges reluctantly took a big whiff and announced Mike Caswell the winner. Fifteen year old Mike told the crowd that his sneakers became rotten after working on a garbage truck. His mom also told the judges that his shoes have to ride in the trunk when they make car trips. Mike and his mom will travel to Vermont to compete in the National competition later this March. Thanks to all who participated, especially Odor Eaters and 97KICKS FM for sponsoring this event.

North Country Mercantile Barnyard Olympics

Eight contestants competed to see who was the best farm hand at the 2009 ND State Fair. To kick off the event was a wheel barrow race. Weaving in and out of six orange cones and coming out on top was Tyler Vollmer. Next up was a bale throw. Each person forked a bale of straw with a pick fork and chucked it as far as they could. It had to pass 10ft to be counted. Tyson Reiter picked his way into first with a 21ft 7in. throw. Oh then there was the animal calling contest where everyone drew an animal out of the hat and mimic that animal. We had everything from a rabbit to a pig to a duck! Also, bonus points were awarded if the contestants showed up in farmer joe attire. Congratulations to all that won and thanks for a good show!

1st Tyler Vollmer
2nd Dennis Burrer

3rd Mitchell Becker

Ranch Rodeo Championships

There was an amazing turnout at last nights Ranch Rodeo Championships presented by Dacotah Bank. The twelve teams competed in trailer loading, trailer rely race, team mugging, and yes even wild cow milking. Everyone was on the edge of their seat the whole time. Congrats to our winners!

Kid's Showdeo!!

The Kid's Showdeo started off with a bang as the stick horse racers gave it their all! The Showdeo is divided up into three age groups and each age group competes in six different events. An All Around Champion is crowned in each age division and they each receive a belt buckle. Great Job to all who participated!! Thanks for a great Showdeo :)

Tractor Pedal Pull

We had a good turn out this year at the Kid's Pedal Pull. There were 9 different age groups, from 4 to 12 years old and about 8 kids per group. All the kids did a great job pulling those heavy loads and man were they cute doing it! We found that sticking the tongue out and leaning from side to side was a popular strategy. The kids that won first, second, or third will be invited to the State Competition and from there they will have the opportunity to go to Nationals and Internationals. All the kids who participated received a ribbon and a frisbee donated by Cloverdale Meats.

Horse Pull

The BIG teams went up against each other again this year at the North Dakota State Fair's famous Horse Pull. There were two classes, Percentage and Overload, and 8 teams in each class. Jeremy Longie from Rolla, ND was 1st in Percentage and Rick Byrne's team from Canada took the Overload by pulling 11,000 lbs. Rick's team was also the heaviest team in the Pull, coming in at 4,431 lbs. Tony Reller commendably won the Teamster Award and overall all the pullers did very well. Paul Geray did a great job announcing the pull and kept the audience updated on the weights and scores.

Pony Pull

We had an awesome Pony Pull this year. 14 teams competed for the win and Harold Flick's team came out on top. Harold received the grand prize of $350 and a plaque for 1st place. The top 9 places recieved a cash prize and earned it respectfully. The bleachers in Heritage Hall were completely full during the event and people were lined up around the arena to try and get a closer look at the mini power houses. These little ponies practice often for the event and for some it all payed off.

During the event the announcer, Paul Geray, informed us that the padding used during the pull protects the horses and pulling does not harm them. In fact he says that if well cared for, these horses often pull up to 18 to 20 years of age.

Dodgeball Tournament

The Fair took off with a blast this morning with our annual Dodgeball Tournament. 12 teams entered the tournament, but only one could have the glory of winning first place. The Youngest Team Here amazed everyone when they came back during the championship to take the win! In 2nd place were newcomers to the tournament, the Multiple Scoregasms, and in 3rd place were our veterans the Average Joel's. The Minor Problem came dressed to impressed, so they took the Best Uniform award and the Sittin' Ducks lived up to there name when
they took the award for the first team eliminated.

DJ Joe Goldade kept the teams motivated with classic songs, like "Eye of the Tiger". We had a great turnout and raised over $700 for the Minot Community Foundation. It was an awesome event and we would like to thank all of our sponsors and our volunteers. Without them this event would not have been possible.The 2009 Dodgeball Tournament is sponsored by:
KMOT

The Vegas Hotel
Splashdown Superslides
Anytime Fitness
Minot Country Club
Roosevelt Park Zoo
Valley View Go-Carts

Ribbon Cutting 2009

The 2009 North Dakota State Fair officialiy began tonight with our annual Ribbon Cutting ceremony. The ceremony took place on the Fair grounds in front of an oil rig donated by Egale Well Services. They generously brought the rig in order for the people of North Dakota to become more educated about the booming oil industry. Bob Wagner, State Fair Manager, did introductions as Feddie the Flickertail stood close by for support. Stop by the state fair this week and see an oil rig up close and personnel, located in Machinery Row.