Evergreen State Fair Honoree For 2019 Announced

From SnoHo County: Each year, The Evergreen State Fair honors an individual or family who has contributed significant personal time and energy toward the improvement and betterment of the annual fair.

This year, the Evergreen State Fair recognizes and celebrates the dedication of Don Ballard, 4H Rabbit Superintendent and past Fair Advisory Board member.

Don Ballard has been a fixture at the Fair for over 30 years. He got the bug by helping out as a clerk in the Display Hall in Open Class. Don’s kids became involved in 4H and so did he as a 4H leader and has continued to be the Superintendent for over 20 years.

Don has been an exhibitor as well by entering his own creations in different departments in the Display Hall. He got his picture in the newspaper several years ago for his handmade crocheted doilies that won a first place ribbon at that year’s fair.

Several years ago, Don even helped organize the “Hokey Pokey” and “Bunny Hop” World Record attempts.

Don’s dedication and love for the Fair runs so deep that he took his annual vacation off work at the Boeing Company just to volunteer 24/7 staying on the fairgrounds ensuring that everything in his department ran smoothly. He was also on the Fair Advisory board for 15 years (2003-2018).

Don’s creativeness and desire to include others in a wonderful fair experience is evident in the rabbit barn with his educational displays and commitment to decorate on theme every year. The rabbit barn also received the prestigious Black & White Award from the State Fair Commissioners.

Don gives pride to the 4H members who help with the preparations and who spend their days there.

Don works tirelessly behind the scenes planning throughout the 11 months in-between fairs, and during fair time, you can recognize Don strolling around the grounds in shorts and rabbit ears with a smile on his face. Don and his wife Terri live in Everett and have a son, daughter and one grandson.

Just as Don packs the fair full of fun, so does this year’s fair theme: “Jam Packed Fun!” with artwork designed by Nathan Yoder.

The Evergreen State Fair runs August 22 through September 2 this year in Monroe.