Name-the-fair competition begins

Preparations for the 2002 Great Northern Fair are well under way, beginning with a competition to name the 79th annual event's theme.

The winner will not only have his or her theme plastered on fair posters and premium books, he or she will land $80 worth of tickets to various fair favorites.

The deadline to enter is May 1.

According to Mike Spencer, the fair's manager, the winner will receive two tickets to each of the following events: Wednesday night's junior rodeo; Thursday night's concert by the Doo Wah Riders, a modern Western band from California; Friday's demolition derby; and Saturday and Sunday's carnival.

The fair, which will be held Aug. 7-11, features carnival rides, food booths, stage acts and a petting zoo, as well as agricultural displays and competitions.

Last year's theme was "Fair 'N' Fun For Everyone." More than 40 people entered last year's them contest, Spencer said.

Theme entries should be mailed to: Great Northern Fair; PO Box 960; Havre, MT 59501.