ESCANABA — It is hard to believe that in just nine days the gates will open to the 95th Annual Upper Peninsula State Fair, which will also mark the 13th year of independent operation under the Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority and the Delta Chamber’s 13th year as management agent.

Prior to becoming the management agent, the Delta Chamber still had a presence at the U.P. State Fair. In 2006, we began running the concession stand at the nightly grandstand events. We always appreciated seeing the excitement of the fairgoers as they got to enjoy the evening entertainment and reasonably priced food and beverages served by Chamber staff and the smiling faces of our ever present Ambassadors. As the years have passed, our Ambassadors have taken on an even bigger role and added more friendly faces from the Escanaba Speedway volunteers.

Another long-standing staple of Chamber involvement in the U.P. State Fair is the Governor’s Luncheon. The non-political event provides an opportunity for businesses and individuals from the community to meet with Governor Gretchen Whitmer and hear directly from her regarding issues that affect Delta County and the State of Michigan. I always appreciate this event because it highlights what is great about our community. Sponsors, attendees, and restaurants come together and celebrate victories and look ahead to the future regardless of political affiliation. It is always a wonderful display of Yooper Pride!

Lunch with the Governor begins 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 17 in the activities tent at the U.P. State Fairgrounds. The event will treat approximately 400 guests to our famous Taste of Membership; buffet style dining including different dishes from our Chamber member food providers.

The cost to attend the event is $30 per person (which includes gate admission into the fair) and part of the proceeds will be divided among those supporting the event. The guest list includes members of the local business community, members of area service clubs, Chamber members from across the U.P., representatives from the state and regional fair boards, local and state government, and staff and sponsors of the fair.

The event would not be possible without our generous sponsors including Upper Peninsula Michigan Works, Upper Peninsula State Fair, Upper Peninsula Power Company, Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, Enbridge, WLUC TV6, Delta County Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses, especially – Bink’s Coca-Cola, Bougie’s Butcher Shop & Smoked Meats, Brisket Barn, The Dew Drop Family Restaurant, Dobber’s Pasties, Elmer’s County Market, Grab & Go, Papa Murphy’s, Freshwater Tavern, Walmart, Wickert Floral, and Upper Hand Brewery.

To purchase a ticket for the Annual Governor’s Luncheon visit deltami.org or call 906-786-2192.

— — —

Sheila Krueger is associate director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce