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By Brooke Hammond, MCP Intern
PERE MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP — John and Darlene Fuhrman have been volunteering with the Western Michigan Fair for over six years. Their hard work and time volunteering has been acknowledged by the Michigan Fair Association by awarding them with the Zone 3 Volunteer Award.
“Superintendent of the Domestic Arts building is the title that we volunteered for,” John Fuhrman said. “Like most volunteers on these grounds, it takes a lot to volunteer here. During fair week we do almost eight hours a day.”
Darlene Fuhrman said she is responsible for finding volunteers to serve in the Domestic Arts building during fair week.
“I have to begin looking for judges in June and volunteers to work in monitoring and registration in July. I ask those who exhibit to take a time slot to monitor the building. I have friends that enjoy monitoring. I average about six to 10 volunteers a day. I cannot hardly run it without six people,” she said.
The Fuhrmans are also responsible for preparing the Domestic Arts building for fair week.
“I am always in charge of changing the decorations,” Darlene said.
The Fuhrmans not only volunteer as superintendents of the Domestic Arts building but also provide additional services for the fair.
“John has worked on many of the buildings here; he worked on the powerhouse as well as the Domestic Arts building. I also do the graphics for the sign out front,” Darlene said.
John owns Crossbeam Construction company. He said his crew was responsible for much of the reconstruction on the eat shack. The remodeling included a new garage door for the concessionary, a new floor, and other upgrades. John has also volunteered his mechanical skills for a variety of needs during fair week.
The couple has been long involved with the fair. Darlene said she remembers showing dairy cows, sheep, and even llamas. “I know what it is like to be in that arena.” Darlene said she enjoyed coming to the fair before volunteering; however, she believes she enjoys it more now as a volunteer.
“I think it is a way to help your community,” Darlene said. “I really think that the fair is important. There are many people who cannot afford to go to amusement parks, and this cannot be run without volunteers.”
“It does the body and the heart good to give back. I really enjoy spending time with people. We don’t have to spend the time and money we do, but the saying is true—You get more than you give,” John said.
The 85th Western Michigan Fair begins Monday, Aug. 5 and will run through Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Mason County Fairgrounds. The midway opens Tuesday, Aug. 6.
For more information, visit masoncountyfairgrounds.com.
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