A fair complaint

Learned ages ago candles have short fuses as flames burn. Learning now same applies to octogenarians. At least that is my excuse for continually having "a short fuse" for various situations.

This came very much to the forefront when calling fairgrounds office. It was shortly after 9 a.m., Friday, Aug. 19. This is early in the day for me, and thought the fairgrounds office possibly would not be too busy.

Seldom use my handicapped parking permit, but remembered their parking was at the far west end of the fairgrounds last year. Wanted to ascertain if I could drive closer to the booth where I was volunteering.

Explained my concern to the unfriendly voice answering the phone. Of course, I did not think I was being too persistent, but needed assistance.

Next question from me was to ask if the little train had a schedule. It would be helpful to learn if traveled every hour and could plan our arrival.

Fairground office person said her other phone was ringing. She hung up. Waited about 10 minutes and dialed back. The same person barked into the phone with first words: "I thought I just talked to you."

She just irritated, but did not scare me, so went ahead and said I wanted to speak to the fair manager. She asked, "Which one?" and reeled off a couple of initials. I explained, "There is a fair manager hired by the county." She hung up again.

Seldom does anyone hang up on me, let alone twice in 15 minutes. Especially when I am paying her wages. My fuse really burned low.

Fortunately there was a convenient parking in handicapped area, Sunday. We enjoyed the little train ride with genial engineer both to and from our destination. He deserved our praise and thanks

An attractive, courteous, helpful young lady waited on us in the fair office. She was obviously not person with obnoxious telephone manners.

We were shocked to learn the senior area close to the exhibit buildings, bleachers, main gate for racetrack/stage was gone. It was so convenient for seniors to walk to facilities, not to forget bathrooms. This was also a good location for others to rest during events.

Senior attendance was encouraged, but certainly also discouraged. We learned senior citizens location was at the extremely far north end of the fairgrounds. We did not go there. Mine is not lone complaint.

Sincerely hope others will air their concerns by contacting Flathead County Fair Board members Butch Clark, Wes McAlpin, Mike Mower, Joy Struble and Butch Woolard. Flathead County Commissioners Jim Dupont, Pam Holmquist and Dale Lauman should also be notified. They do listen to comments.

Gladys Shay is a longtime resident and columnist for the Hungry Horse News.