Chisholm Kiwanis Club Fair Parking is one of their biggest fundraisers that help us support Scholarships to the Chisholm School District, provide free family events like Kiwanis Kids’ Day & the Holly Jolly event, and help support families and children of our community. One of our biggest fundraisers is providing parking for the St Louis County Fair. We are looking for VOLUNTEERS to help if you can. If you have even a couple hours, we would appreciate it. We collect money as cars come into the fairground area and direct traffic to park in the best available spot. We provide drinks and food while you are there. If you can spare some time, please contact Sharon Polcher at 218-969-3115. or email SHARBO59@msn.com
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Here are the time slots we are trying to fill but even a couple hours helps!
WEDNESDAY 7/30
2:00pm-10pm – 2 people
THURSDAY 7/31
10:00am-4:00pm 2 people
5:00pm-10:00pm -3 people
FRIDAY 8/1
10:00am -4:00 pm 2 people
1:00pm-10:00pm 6 people
SATURDAY 8/2
10:00am-4:00pm – people
4:00pm-10:00pm 6 people
SUNDAY
10:00am-4:00pm 2 people
It is fun working with others in your community and seeing all the kiddos and families excited to come to the fair!
Kiwanis Fun Facts:
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Founded in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan.
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Now has clubs in over 80 countries and geographic areas.
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The name “Kiwanis” comes from a Native American expression meaning “we trade” or “we share our talents.”
Mission & Focus
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The mission is: “Serving the children of the world.”
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Most of their service projects focus on children’s health, education, and leadership development.
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They support programs like Key Club (high school), Circle K (college), and K-Kids (elementary).
Impactful Projects
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In partnership with UNICEF, Kiwanis helped eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus in many countries through the Eliminate Project.
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They’ve supported programs providing books to children, building playgrounds, and feeding programs around the world.
Volunteering Vibes
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Kiwanis clubs are known for being hands-on, often working on community projects like:
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Building ramps for people with disabilities.
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Organizing school supply drives.
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Hosting holiday parades or pancake breakfasts.
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Fun Traditions
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Many clubs have quirky traditions—some fine members for not wearing name tags or have “happy dollar” moments where members share good news.
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Club meetings often include guest speakers, jokes, or themed dress-up days.
Youth Empowerment
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Kiwanis is one of the largest youth service leadership organizations in the world.
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Over 300,000 youth participate in Kiwanis-sponsored leadership clubs.
FUN COUNTY FAIR FACTS:
General Facts
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Origins: County fairs originated in the early 19th century in the U.S. as agricultural events to promote local farming and livestock practices.
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First U.S. County Fair: The first recognized U.S. county fair was held in Pittsfield, Massachusetts in 1811, organized by Elkanah Watson.
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Purpose: Originally focused on agriculture and livestock competitions, fairs now include food, rides, games, music, and arts & crafts.
Food
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Fried Everything: County fairs are famous for unusual deep-fried treats like fried butter, fried Oreos, fried Kool-Aid, and even fried beer.
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Corn Dogs: A classic county fair food — invented in the 1940s, and now a staple.
Rides & Entertainment
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Ferris Wheel: One of the most iconic fair rides. The modern version was introduced at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
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Demolition Derbies & Tractor Pulls: Popular fair events showcasing rural traditions and loud engines.
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Talent Shows: Many county fairs host local competitions, helping launch careers (e.g., country singers or rodeo stars).
Animals & Agriculture
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Livestock Shows: Kids in 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) raise and show animals like pigs, cows, goats, and chickens.
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Blue Ribbons: Winners in categories like pies, jams, quilts, and livestock receive these as a mark of excellence.
Fun Facts
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Iowa State Fair Butter Cow: A life-sized cow made of butter has been a tradition since 1911.
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Largest Fair: The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest in the U.S., often attracting over 2 million visitors.
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Fair Season: Most county fairs occur in late summer, typically July through September.
