2011 Redwood Acres Fair Goes Local

It’s hard to beat this view of Humboldt county, and the redwood acres fairgrounds—normally the highest view comes from the Ferris wheel, but maybe it’s fitting that one of the attractions this year is a helicopter ride around Humboldt—because this year’s fair is all about staying local.
"Keeping things local is very important, that’s what keeps the local flavor to a community, that's what keeps local employment strong." Said Fair Entertainer Chris Biro.
As it turns out a generous gift from a friend gave Fair Director Cindy Bedingfield the inspiration for going local:
"I got a gift basket of Humboldt made products and i did not have a clue that you had all of those unique, entrepreneurial businesses around here and i thought i bet a lot of other people don't either.” Said Bedingfield.
So while there are still fair classics like and corn dogs and funnel cake, there’s an emphasis on local foods, like fresh picked strawberries…even on the fair’s fist day, the response has been positive.
"Well we just started and I had one fellow come in and take a dozen cards from me to take to his gym." Said Fair Vendor William Fales
It’s not just local food, it’s trying to keep entertainment local as well, be it a baby tiger, a talking parrot, or a rollercoaster…this year’s fair is about showcasing what the north coast has to offer.