Your friendly neighborhood Benton County officials really-really-really want us to tell you about their latest podcast, which is Episode 11 in the series – and it’s all about the County Fair.
They interview Rodeo Queen Naomi Bailey, and walk through her journey with her adopted Mustang, Ochoco. She talks about what it means to be a rodeo queen and her responsibilities.
Fair Director Jesse Ott and Fair Manager Jennifer Martin talk about what goes into running the fair each year. Also, among the interviewees, an enthusiastic 4H student participant, and reflections
from volunteers who have been working at the information booth for 30 years. We repeat… 30 years.
You can listen to the Benton County Public Podcast on the Benton County YouTube Channel. Of course, you could just go to the fair, but you’ll need to hurry – two days have already elapsed, meaning today and Saturday are your only remaining options to attend.
Jackson-Frazier Funding Road Trip – Money, Please
Benton County Commissioners Xan Augerot, Nancy Wyse, and Pat Malone, along with CountyAdministrator Rachel McEneny and Interim Natural Area Parks and Events Director Jesse Ott,visited the Jackson-Frazier Wetland Boardwalk in Corvallis. They were joined on July 24 by Molly McCarthy and Sophia Roberts, staff for Oregon State Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley to learn about the Jackson-Frazier project and explore funding options.
Benton County is actively seeking state and federal funding for local projects. “We need to preserve this local gem,” said Benton County Administrator Rachel McEneny. “Making the boardwalk more accessible and ADA compliant is a priority. This place also serves as an
outdoor classroom where our kids can learn and be close to nature.”
The Jackson-Frazier Wetland is a 144-acre natural area in NE Corvallis, owned by Benton County and managed by the Natural Areas, Parks & Events Department for public recreation and environmental preservation. Benton County and the Alliance for Recreation & Natural Areas (AFRANA) are working together to raise funds to replace the Bob Frenkel Boardwalk, built in 1997. The deteriorated floating wood timber foundations and treated wood planks are now at the end of their design life.
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