Evergreen State Fair August 23rd-September 3rd

This year's Evergreen State Fair kicks off on Thursday, August 23rd. The Fair opens at 10 am with the Opening Day Ceremony beginning at 2:00 pm.

"The Evergreen State Fair is one of the premier family events in Snohomish County every year," said Snohomish County Councilmember Dave Gossett. "There is something for everyone-4-H exhibits, animals, great music, races, rodeos, fabulous food, and so much more."

Tickets to grandstand concerts, auto races, fair gate admission, rodeo and carnival ride wristbands are available for purchase on line, allowing individuals to choose their own premium reserved seats and print tickets at home for Evergreen State Fair events. All online tickets are sold through http://www.evergreenfair.org/prices.asp 

You can also purchase tickets at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds Administration Office at 14405 179th Ave SE in Monroe. Purchasing tickets prior to August 22nd will result in discounted prices.

"We've got a great music line-up this year," said Gossett. "It includes country singers Jake Owen and Rodney Atkins, the classic rock band Styx, pop rock/folk pop artists Gavin DeGraw and Colbie Caillat, and rock/pop artist Demi Lovato with Hot Chelle Rae."

Music schedule and prices are below. All prices include fair gate admission:  

• August 27th, 7:30 pm--Styx ($22-$45)
• August 28th, 7:30 pm--Rodney Atkins ($22-$45)
• August 29th, 7:00 pm--Gavin DeGraw and Colbie Caillat ($27-$50)
• August 30th, 7:00 pm--Demi Lovato and Hot Chelle Rae ($32-$55)
• August 31st, 7:30 pm-Jake Owen ($22-$45)

Doors open 1-1 ½ house before shows. Concerts are held rain or shine. Regular Fair admission prices are below. A discounted price (shown in parentheses) can be obtained by purchasing tickets prior to August 23rd.

• Adults (age 16-61)--$10 ($8)
• Seniors (age 62-89)--$7 (6)
• Youth (age 6-15)--$7 ($6)
• Seniors (age 90 and over)-FREE
• Youth (age 5 and under)--FREE

"Armed Forces Day is Friday, August 31st," said Gossett. "It is a great opportunity to honor our men and women in the armed forces and first responders. The ceremony will be held at 2:00 pm." On Armed Forces Day anyone with a valid military or first responder ID will be admitted for $5.

Fair hours are from 10 am to 10 pm except on the last day, September 3rd, when hours are from 10 am to 7 pm.

The Snohomish County Children's Commission is the county's primary agency to shape county policies regarding the welfare of children. It has taken a leading role in a variety of initiatives including:

• Support for homeless and transient youth
• The creation of the Children's Museum
• The creation of Dawson Place Child Advocacy Center
• Improving the juvenile justice system
• Early learning to insure children are ready for success in school

"The Children's Commission has played a vital role in improving the lives of children in Snohomish County," said Snohomish County Councilmember Dave Gossett. "It is recognized throughout the state for its outstanding work."

Currently the Children's Commission has a number of vacancies that interested individuals could apply to fill. Membership includes:

• Two youth under age 18
• Three members from each council district
• Ten at-large appointments

The commission conducts public hearings and community forums to determine the needs and priorities of children regarding health, mental health, safety, and social services. Based on the information received it advises county government on priorities and programs affecting children aged 0-18. It also acts as a resource center providing technical assistance to community-based organizations dealing with children's issues, assists in the development of grants, and provides input to local, state and federal agencies on these issues.

"The Commission reports to the Council on a yearly basis regarding its activities," said Gossett. "It works with both the private and public sectors to promote the interests of the children of Snohomish County."

The Children's Commission meets on the last Wednesday of the months of January, June, September and October from 4-6 p.m. in Everett. Smaller committee groups meet according to need. Terms are 4 years in length.

"Residents interested in becoming a member must first attend three Children's Commission meetings before they can apply," said Gossett. "They should contact me at dave.gossett@snoco.org or 425-388-3494 for more information or a nomination form."