Rob's Mini-State Fair Ramblings Day 1

To be honest, there was not going to be any ramblings for this special mini-fair event. I had no requests for a mini-blog for this event. Not even one. However, when I went out to the fair event this afternoon, I ran into my sister, Jen. (That's another story). Anyway, she asked me if I was going to blog this event, and I shared that no one had requested it. She seemed surprised about that, as was I. I told her that I would go ahead and make a blog post, and if people liked it, they could thank Jen.

Today's event began at 11:00 this morning, but I didn't make it out until about 4:00ish, due to work responsibilities. Here are some things you will need to know about how this event is laid out. The food court area is on the street just east of the Domestic Arts building. Some of the vendors include Pronto Pups, Mid-State Cookers, who are the culmination of all things deep-fried, kettle corn, Brackett Concessions, who have deep-fried cookie dough, Oreos, peaches, and other goodies. There are deep-fried pickles, an ice cream stand, and the Tacones are ready to sell as well. Both Pepsi and Coca-Cola products are represented. Be prepared for State fair prices on the food, but think about this: The vendors are Kansas people, our local folks. They are taking a HUGE financial hit by not having the state fair this year, which was a substantial boost to their bottom line. There is also a stand by the lake which sells alcoholic beverages, and those drinks need to stay right there within the designated area. The big slide is also in operation during this mini-fair event for a $2 ride ticket, or 4 tickets for $7. 

As I mentioned before, I arrived at about 4:00, and my first stop was the Pronto Pup stand. The Pronto Pups are $4, and they will ask you if you want ketchup or mustard, as they will put it on for you inside the stand. They don't have the bottles out front like they usually do. They also have a spicy mustard option. Afterwards, I pretty much walked around the area, which didn't take long, so I went and walked around the empty parts of the grounds. I looked around the Midway, and I could tell you every ride and attraction that would fill that spot. It made me kind of sad that I will miss that this year. After my walk, I visited the Deep-fried cookie dough stand and took home a 3-piece of deep-fried cookie dough for $5. They will also sprinkle powdered sugar over it for you if you'd like. (Yes, I cheated on my healthy diet, but hey, it's the fair, kind of...).  I also checked out the fair merchandise table, and found a cool clearance T-shirt for $4. They also sell caps, cups, hoodies, and a lot of other goodies. As I said before, this is a tough year financially for the fair, and I was glad to be able to help out just a little by giving them my business. 

During my time there, I also got to see some of my kiddos from BGC and church. One of the BGC kiddos was so excited to see me, he tried to tackle me with a hug, but I was able to turn it into a quick high-five. He understood why. It's hard to not hug these kiddos when they want a hug. If anything, I can gently turn it into a quick side-hug if they just HAVE to have a hug. I( just hate this Covid world that we're living in. But, that's another post for another day.)
 I also got to see some of my church kiddos, 2 brothers who were totally pumped that they got to ride the big slide. I just love seeing my many kiddos at events like this.

Tomorrow's events begin at 11:00, with all food booths open, and I'll be out and about, maybe I'll see you. In the evening, the attention will turn toward the lake, with entertainers on stage. 
At 5:00, you can see Sassanachs, a high-energy Irish and folk-rock-influenced band from Harvey County. They play polka, country, mariachi, punk, and more.
6:00 features Makayla Brownlee, a teen from Wellington, who made it into the top 40 in the 2020 season of American Idol.
7:00 will bring Lockeland, a Nashville group who is rising on the country music scene.  

I hope that if you plan on attending tomorrow, that I get a chance to visit with you. I love seeing people at events like these and saying hello. Infobits: Parking is located right on the fairgrounds, in the empty areas east of the commercial buildings. Masks are not required unless you are not planning on social distancing. It's an outdoor event, so just do what you are comfortable with. I will have mine on hand, in the event that I have to be too close to someone else. In any case, I hope to be able to enjoy some fun and excitement in this world that is so embroiled in covid craziness. Thanks for reading! Good night and God bless! 

PS: Thanks, Jen!