Volunteers are the backbone of the Port Hope Fair. They are part of the tradition of this 177 year old event. Energy, imagination and enthusiasm are not in short supply. We start planning next year's Fair on the Friday afternoon of the current Fair as we see what works and what does not. We listen to our most important critics - those who come through the gates. Port Hope Fair depends upon the hard work and dedication of volunteers. We thank each of them and look for additional help and new ideas.

This year it is back to basics with our 2008 theme - A is for Apples. Look for the special displays and competitions celebrating the "apple." Other features to watch for include The Green Kitchen exhibit on loan from the Royal Winter Fair and a related seminar program. Throughout the weekend Port Hope Racquet Club and the Port Hope Fair are sponsoring a junior tennis tournament.

On Friday morning September 12th our second Agri-Education Day for Port Hope students in Grade 3 will take place in the South Field. This initiative is sponsored by Rosemary Davis in memory of Niel Hannah and by TD Canada Trust.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program.

We are also very appreciative of the support of our sponsors, advertisers, sister organizations, the Municipality of Port Hope, and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. This team effort results in a true community event, one that the Board is very proud of. We hope you will share our enthusiasm and give us an "A."

John Goheen, President for the Board of Directors