PIERRE, S.D. -- The wheat is in the bin and silage cutting season will be here before we know it. The last unofficial weeks of summer are upon us and our attention turns to the South Dakota State Fair, which runs from Sept. 1 to 5 in Huron.
We often talk about how the state fair is a chance for our youth to show their talents through exhibits, showmanship and the like, but the state fair is for everyone. It's a great chance to meet up with friends and enjoy the last few days of summer.
We have lined up some great grandstand entertainment at the South Dakota State Fair this year. The CBR Bull Bash, Don Williams, Sammy Kershaw, Ronnie Dunn, Cheap Trick, the Little River Band and stock car races are just the beginning.
You will be able to find artists from every genre and for every age at the state fair --everything from old favorites such as Mogen's Heroes to up-and-coming artists such as Elisabeth Hunstad and the alternative rock band ZIV. Throw in a magician, a champion whip cracker and previous contestants from "American Idol" and "Survivor" and you have something for almost everyone.
Any trip to the fair wouldn't be complete for some without taking a spin on some carnival rides.
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GoldStar Amusements has a great combination of traditional rides and newer, extreme rides.
Attention on agriculture
The state fair, a division of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture, is a great venue to gather together to showcase agriculture to those who don't make their living from agriculture. The many cook-offs and cooking demonstrations feature some of the state's best food. The Wine Pavilion highlights the diversity of wines made from the state's grapes and fruit.
If you are curious about the work that goes into livestock showmanship, I encourage you to take in the Legislative Showmanship Competition. This friendly competition is sure to entertain as your elected leaders try their hand at showing cattle in the show ring.
The Thank a Farmer Ag Magic Show on the Freedom Stage will educate fairgoers on what agriculture provides for us in our daily lives. You'll learn that farmers not only provide food but also products used in nearly all of our basic needs.
Helping neighbors
I invite everyone to the 2011 South Dakota State Fair to see our "Country Pride Statewide." One way we are showing pride and appreciation this year is offering free gate entry for South Dakota flood victims and North Dakotans whose 2011 state fair was canceled because of flooding. This summer, we've been seeing neighbors helping neighbors fight flooding. If we can offer a small token of appreciation to those who have helped their neighbors, that's what the fair is all about.
If it's been a while since you've made the trip to Huron, load up the family in the car and set out to have fun and make some great memories. I'll see you there.
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Editor's Note: Bones is South Dakota's secretary of agriculture.
