South Dakota Culture Day

Hi, everyone,

We heard that the Central State Fair was starting today. I thought we could get a better idea about the people and culture of this region by attending the fair. We started by viewing the parade. It was small by some standards, but you could see the pride these folks have in their ancestry (German, Scandinavian, Native American). Horses, as you might guess, are big around here, so there were several units with horses. I've included a few pics.

We were blown away by many exhibits at the fair. I particularly enjoyed the quilt show (see pics) and the chainsaw carving demonstration. The had many competitive events for quarterhorses, but we mostly enjoyed seeing young children 6-8 yrs. old riding and showing their skills with their horses.

We had lunch at the "German Biergarten" (spelling?). We enjoy asking for "sweet tea" at many places because it always starts a conversation with the locals. "Where are you guys from?" We talked to a beekeeper who got his bees from "a fellow in Georgia." After talking for a while we're quite sure it was Mr. Studier from Guyton. What a coincidence! We're really impressed with South Dakotans. They are much friendlier here that Iowans and Ill(annoyans).

We've been particularly interested in the climate here (today it reached about 92). One woman, who spent much of her life in North Dakota, said that this region (Western S. Dakota) is called the "Banana Belt" because of the mild climate much of the year.

Well, I probably told you way more than you wanted to hear today. Tomorrow, it's back to the tourist thing. Until then, hope all of you are well.

Carolyn