Heading to the fairgrounds for a week?

ADVERTISEMENT — Many area business owners have a long history of involvement with the county fair. Trial and error have helped them come up with their tips for a smooth week of fair activities — even if you’re camping out at the fairgrounds all week long.

HOLYOKE GENERAL STORE
Tip: Make sure you have plenty of wood shavings
    Nothing’s worse than finding yourself short on wood shavings for the floor of your livestock stall at the fair.
    Wood shavings are a great animal bedding option that can be used for all types of animals. Shavings absorb both liquids and odors and provide a nice option for your livestock pen.
    Holyoke General Store, located at 128 S. Campbell Ave. in Holyoke, encourages 4-H and FFA members, as well as Open Class exhibitors who will be displaying livestock at the fair, to arrange for wood shavings for their pens.
    And don’t forget fly spray for those animals’ comfort.
    Tim Bartels and the friendly staff at the local Do It Best hardware store can answer your questions and fill your supply list.
    Stop by to visit in person or give them a call at 970-854-5505. They are open Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
   
JAKE'S FEED
Tip: Accessorize yourself and your animals
    Imagine the nightmare it would be to find yourself without the proper accessories for fair. And then expand those thoughts to the accessorizing needs of animals.
    Briana Worley and Brenda Lebsack can help you with the 4-H routine at the county fair, and they have much to offer at Jake’s Feed, located across from Melissa Memorial Hospital on East Johnson Street.
    Livestock showing essentials including Sullivan’s show supplies, and various fly sprays can be found in abundance at Jake’s.
    Accessorizing those animals with new halters can be just the ticket for the show ring. Briana says they have a nice selection of pig whips and show sticks, as well.
    “Get rodeo ready,” adds Worley, as she enthusiastically talks about their Montana Silversmiths and wide selection of other jewelry. Accessories available at Jake’s include Made in the USA Texas Saddlery belts and wallets.
    Visit Jake’s Feed Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. or Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon to check out the selections. They can be reached at 970-854-7220 and have a nice Facebook page, as well.

THE TURQUOISE CHANDELIER
Tip: Dress for the occasion
    Allison Horton at the Turquoise Chandelier knows that fashion and function are both crucial during the fair. Her boutique in Paoli is the perfect place to find a new outfit for the fair — whether you’re showing your livestock or attending the events.
    Graphic T’s are the in-thing right now, and Horton has a huge variety of T’s featuring western themes, show animals and much more. They’re perfect for girls participating in the 4-H competition and for moms looking to style it up right in the grandstands. You really have to stop by her shop to appreciate the full range of selection.
    The Turquoise Chandelier is open Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The store’s informational Facebook page also highlights her regular specials, and you can reach Allison at 970-520-7120.
    Jeans, kimonos and turquoise jewelry are additional popular items of clothing and accessories that can be found in Horton’s shop, located on the south side of Highway 6, at 102 S. Lohn Ave. in Paoli.

HOLYOKE MARKETPLACE
Tip: Stock up on bottled drinks beforehand and prepare for weather conditions
    With life on the farm, any day can be long, but that seems to be especially true during fair week. Whether you’re planning to spend your nights at the fairgrounds or not, having a cooler full of cold drinks is a must to stay hydrated in the hot, sunny days.
    Holyoke Marketplace is just the place to stock up on bottled water and other healthy drinks to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to stop by each day and grab some ice, as well. And if you need a cooler, that’s also available.
    In addition to staying hydrated during the fair, Wade Warren and Jill Fiedler remind fairgoers to take care of themselves by using sunscreen and insect repellent. A variety of both can be found at the local grocery store.
    During the fair and beyond, Holyoke Marketplace reminds customers that they now offer online shopping. Go to their website at www.holyokemarketplace.com.
    Shoppers are also encouraged to check out the store’s Facebook page. Located at 112 E. Carnahan St. in Holyoke, the Marketplace is open Monday-Saturday from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The store phone number is 970-854-3663.