Mark your calendars on Sept. 28 through Oct. 3 as the week the Kiwanis Club will sponsor the annual Chilton County Fair. I know it is still a couple of weeks away, but getting it on you calendar now may assure you will not miss the fun, food and fellowship that are part of every Chilton County Fair week.

When I was a youngster, I always looked forward to fair week and would spend several afternoons collecting soft-drink bottles to turn in for deposits. The 2 cents I received for each empty bottle helped fund my visit to the fair.

My bothers and I would also look for other ways around our neighborhood to earn a dollar or two that would gain us entrance to the fair, a few tickets for rides and either a cotton candy or a candy apple. Life was much slower in those days.

Even though the entrance fees have increased in the past 50 years, the county fair is still a great entertainment bargain.

The Kiwanis club has lined up several events that will take place all during fair week, including a demolition derby that has become a popular event. The derby this year is scheduled for Tuesday night, Sept. 29, at 7 p.m. at the fairgrounds.

There is a $25 entry fee for contestants and entry forms and rules are available at People Southern Bank, Peachtree Bank and 2020 EyeCare located next to Winn Dixie in Clanton.

Members of the Kiwanis Club spend many hours planning the fair each year and working during fair week.

I appreciate their willingness to continue the tradition here, and I hope you will show your appreciation by attending fair events Sept. 28-Oct. 3.