The Interview: Scott Cortner
From Staff Reports
As the start of the 2022 Kiwanis Coweta County Fair nears, The Paper asked this year’s chairman Scott Cortner about what to expect when the 11-day run on the midway begins Sept. 15.
What is the role of the Fair Chairman?
Coordinate all aspects of the Fair to include administration, operations, amusements, exhibits, contests, entertainment, programming, advertising and sponsorship. All of that is done through various committees whose members volunteer countless hours to ensure we have an entertaining, family-focused County Fair.
Why does the Kiwanis sponsor the fair?
Kiwanis’ mission is to “Serve the Children of the World.” The Fair provides children and their families an opportunity to enjoy time together in a fun, entertaining, and wholesome environment while also providing us the opportunity to give back to the community through grants from the proceeds of the Fair.
What’s new this year, as in rides or attractions?
Primetime Amusements does a great job of providing a wide variety of rides for all ages. As for attractions, we will have a petting zoo again after not having one for a couple of years due to Covid. Lew-E’s Comedy Circus is new, as is Rock and Read, Mahayley’s Grave and Latin Dance and Music on both Sundays. And this year we will have lots of new activities for children on the lawn in front of the main stage. Dates and times for all entertainment and programming can be found on our website: cowetacountyfair.net.
What are some of the big “crowd pleasers” you’ve noticed over the years?
Definitely the rides and the food. The Lumberjack and Lumberjill competitions. The Disney Princesses were a big hit last year as was the “living statue.” Both will be back again this year.
How much money has the Kiwanis Club put back into the community?
Approximately $4.6 million over the past 20 years.
What would be the perfect fair?
No rain, moderate temperatures and a well-behaved crowd.
What do you enjoy the most during the fair?
Seeing the joy in the faces of the little children. That and the smiles from the Special Needs Children and Adults during their special time at the Fair.
What do you wish more people would do at the fair?
Take a look at the exhibits in the Exhibit Hall. Coweta County has some talented artists.
What do you do if you lose your phone, a parent, or have some other question?
Check in at the Information Booth (otherwise known as the “Fruit Stand”). Or contact us through our Facebook Page.
What is the best deal?
Definitely the Mega Pass. It saves you up to $10 on Friday and Saturday and can save you time in line on other days. Mega Passes are on sale now through September 14th at cowetacountyfair.net or in person at Keith Ross Insurance Agency, Southtowne Motors, Coweta County Extension Office, and Arnall Grocery Company.
What day is the best day to attend the fair?
I think Sundays are best. We are open Sundays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Crowds are usually light. If Sunday doesn’t work for you, then the best times would be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday where we have sponsors offering free entry which saves you $5 per person.
Anything else you want to add?
I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, the various departments throughout the county and the numerous volunteers that support us each year. A lot of planning has gone into making this year’s Fair the most entertaining and exciting yet. We have managed to hold the cost down despite the rise in inflation and hope to see everyone out having a good time.
