The 168th Washington County Fair is stronger than ever, thanks to many people who work hard all year long behind the scenes.

"This is going to be the best fair ever," according to Washington County Fair Committee Chair Rob Johnson, who joined WTKM live on the fair grounds on Thursday, July 23. "It's because we have an amazing staff, sponsors and volunteers. The weather helps and we are very excited that people have a safe place to come out to after the smoke last week. The sun is out and it's awesome for families."

Johnson went on to recognize the Washington County Board of Supervisors and Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann.

"They are the ones who made this facility happen. They have a major asset here for the county. They truly want it to be the best fair in the state, and I believe it's going to be. We are very fortunate."

Johnson also serves on the Agricultural Industrial Society Board of Directors. They operate the fair park year-round.  

"We are blessed. We are a nonprofit volunteer board."

It's made up of dedicated board members, according to Johnson. It includes Aaron Jambura, Holly Lemmer, Jamie Ludovic, Randy Strupp, Tammy Mucherheide, Tracy Oestreich, President Jack Rettler, Lucas Simonds, Cindy Zimmer, Alex Sprtel, Gary Heckendorf and Kate Carroll.

Washington County Fair Event and Fair Operations Manager Tanya Becker has done an impressive job in her role. She was excited to tell WTKM about an uptick with the number of exhibit entries.

"We have one hundred more exhibitors than last year and one thousand more exhibitor entries, so more animals as well. It's exciting to see the hard work of the kids in Washington County come to life."

The Washington County Fair Committee continues to make an impact. 

"Tanya and I host these meetings, typically once a month," said Johnson. "We are organizing things all year long, I have learned a lot. Tanya is a rock star and she obviously knows all of the details as we get all of the volunteers up to speed."

Johnson also recognized the facilities team and their great office team. 

"People think of the fair being one week long, but truthfully they are working on this all year long. And the great thing is, we are already talking about things we can improve on."

Solid support and many strong sponsors also shine a bright light on the Washington County Fair, which runs through Sunday, July 26.