On Opening Day, Tuesday, August 13, 2024, eight-year-old Ethan Martin, of Morrison, IL, was the first, fortunate bicycle recipient, during the 153rd Whiteside County Fair. He is a third grader. Although Ethan cannot ride his new bike to school, he can wheel around on the “big, concrete slab down by the barn.” The sponsor is Realtor Barb Kophamer, Re/Max Sauk Valley.
As people entered the west gate, they were attracted to Chris Busker‘s colorful balloon art. Known by “Chris That Twists,” his entertainment business is called Characters2Life. The Mario figure and Sheriff’s badge cost $5 each. He has been a clever “Twister” for over five years, and his craft is not only for youngsters. Other occasions were an adult Lumber Jack Party; Alverno Retirement Home (“It was a hit!”); Lumber Kings events with a face painter. Busker helped out that day and received “half a pack of balloons.” Fees for parties are based on the number of hours. To inflate balloons quickly, he uses a floor pump; using one’s breath excessively can be harmful over time. Every year after the Fourth of July, Twisters with 20 or more years experience gather at the four-day, Itasca[, IL,] Twister Fest, sponsored by the Lions Club.
Chainsaw Woodcarver Jason Stoner brought 19 years of experience to the Fair. He resides in Gettysburg, PA. The carved and painted pieces below were completed in the morning. “This is just a hobby,” he stated. “I carve a lot of animals. I like carving cowboys and dogs from photos.” He spray paints them all. Stoner noted he might carve an eagle this week. On Saturday, August 17, at 4:00 p.m., his creations will be auctioned to the public, to benefit the Whiteside County Fair.
At the General Store, on the north side of the grandstand, these volunteers sold products as a fundraiser designed to support WHOA. The local, not-for-profit organization is named White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center (WHOA.) It is housed at the fairgrounds, 201 W. Winfield Street, Morrison, IL. WHOA volunteers offer assisted equine activities, to individuals with disabilities. Left-to-right are Julie Bielema; Kara Williams; Briley Williams; Cindy Bonneur. Other shifts included Jen Black; Pam Brackemeyer; Judy Deter; Maggie Jones; Erin and Jack Luckey; Lynn Wiebenga; Tynlee Williams.
Grandstand entertainment “Next Level Bull Riding” began at 7:00 p.m., with “about 38 bulls” raring to go. These animals range from 1500 to 1600 pounds, up to top-of-the-line animals at 2000. “Now they breed smaller bulls, shorter and more compact, which are easier to fit on the trailer. Next Level Pro has set contractors who bring the bulls to shows.” As they dressed for the rigorous events to come, the Editor interviewed four Bull Riders and one Bull Fighter (not a “clown.”) They are listed left-to-right. Garrett Wolfe, 19, learned bull riding skills with his brother; this is his third year of competition. He is shown below, snugging his boots with a wrapped leather thong, as did the other men. Mason Hozeska, 19, is a second year Bull Fighter from Michigan. He watched bull riders/fighters practice when a High School Junior. He listed travels to Illinois, Michigan, Tennessee, and Texas. Bull Fighter distraction tasks require protective clothing on the ground: a protective vest; slip-on, 3/4 length sleeve jersey; football cleats; knee brace from an injury; LUCKY socks. Casey Coulter, 34, is from Kirksville, MO. He has competed for 20 years, starting at age 14! Jake Morinec lives in Mokena, IL, and grew up in the suburbs. He started riding livestock–sheep–at age 12; he is now 21. “It stomped me in the guts! It takes awhile to get sheep who [will] run.” Stetson Bennett, age 18, is from Winchester, IN. He has been a Bull Rider for two years.
