Dear editor:

On behalf of the Berrien County Youth Fair Board of Directors, I would like to welcome you to the 66th annual Berrien County Youth Fair, Aug. 15-20.
Our theme this year is “Proud of the Past, Poised for the Future,” and we are excited about making memories and celebrating at this year’s fair! The directors, fair staff, advisors, superintendents, sponsors and more than 1,500 volunteers have worked all year to make this a place to showcase the youth of Berrien County.
We want to thank all of the people and businesses that have stepped forward to assist in raising funds for exhibitor premiums when the State of Michigan cut our premium grant a few years ago. Thanks to all of the people that attended the “Pancakes for Premiums” pancake breakfast and also donated food and supplies, and to those that simply donated with the attitude that “it’s all about the kids.”
The BCYF, which attracts more thann 120,000 spectators, is an event for the entire family to attend. Our visitors will find something for everyone to enjoy: more than 15,000 exhibits on display exhibited by more than 2,800 Berrien County youth ages 5-20, animals, food, rides, more than 300 commercial exhibits, entertainment, beautiful flowers and grounds with picnic tables and benches, to name just a few. The fair is once again “going green” this year! You’ll see recycling containers located throughout the grounds.
Check out free attractions, including a “Showcase of BCYF’s History and Growth” display in our Historical Building; The Great American Duck Race, a free interactive show for the entire family; and daily entertainment in our mall area on the Al Barbott Memorial Stage with PA and lighting equipment from Cook Nuclear Plant’s “Heart of Cook” grant. The Entertainment Committee is excited about hosting country music superstar Luke Bryan with special guest Jessica Ridley. Comedy comes to the fair this year with comedian Bill Engvall. Don’t forget the other unique entertainment at the Midwest’s largest youth fair, including a truck and tractor pull, bull riding and a demolition derby.
Don’t forget that Kids’ Day is Tuesday, with free admission for kids and three free circus shows in the grandstand. We are expecting a lot of thrill seekers as we offer one low price each day for rides wristband days, which is every day again this year. I hope you will a make a date for your family to come and join in the fun at the 2011 Berrien County Youth Fair.
And don’t forget about the great fair food. New this year on the menu are fresh fruit pizzas, Tornado Fries and chicken tenderloins! These all join our other long time fair favorites such as Korn Dogs, steak tips, taffy, cotton candy and lemonade.

Bruce Foster
President, Berrien County Youth Fair