For two years in a row, the weather foiled the success of the Refugio County Fair. So, last year, the fair association decided to move the 2010 fair back two weeks to March 24-27, in hope of better weather.

“I’m not sure everybody knows the new dates so we’re trying to get the word out,” said Harvey Dierschke, board president.

The board kicked off its weekly meeting on Monday at Padilla Hall. The members will continue to meet every week until the fair.

Dierschke says everyone is welcome to come out and be a part of this year’s event.

“We want to hear your suggestions and hopefully get many volunteers,” Dierschke said.

Volunteers are needed for all facets of the fair, including the rodeo, concession stands and the exhibit building. New signs at the entrances are being constructed and at least one concession stand at the arena needs a non-profit sponsor.

“We’d like to see a 4-H club, a high school band or club, a church group or some other non-profit group take it over,” Dierschke said. “On cold nights, a lot of money can be made just by selling hot chocolate and coffee.”

At the meeting, one area of concern was raised about the entrance to the arena where barrel racers enter.

The barrel racers leave the arena going full speed and often ropers and other rodeo competitors gather at the entrance, creating a hazard. Suggestions were to erect panels to fence off the entrance and add dirt over the asphalt at the entrance to prevent horses from slipping. Lighting is also needed in that area.

Julie VanNess, board treasurer, said a number of window panes had been broken out and volunteers are needed to replace them before the fair.

Jeremy Speis, vendors chair, is welcoming vendors to sign up to participate. Call Jeremy at 543-7278 to be a vendor.

Gwen Koliba, chair of the exhibit building, also needs superintendents for the various categories of exhibits.

Anyone interested in joining the fair association or volunteering their services may attend any or all of the meetings over the coming weeks.