The Bellingham Business Journal

The Northwest Washington Fair recently received a prestigious award for the Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience that made its debut in 2009.

The Northwest Washington Fair received an award for excellence from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions, which has more than 3,000 members worldwide. The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was judged as best among fairs with attendance of 100,001-250,000 in the category of new programs that promote agriculture.

The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was organized by Debbie Vander Veen and the Barn Buddies 4-H Club, which is led by Lacey Vander Veen. It enabled fairgoers to get close to a variety of small and newborn animals, including ducks, rabbits and piglets. The award was presented to Debbie Vander Veen on Dec. 1 during the IAFE convention in Las Vegas, Nev.

The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience previously received the Whatcom County 4-H Civic Experience Award, plus the Black and White Award for excellence from Washington State Fairs Commissioner Patricia Myers.

“The Cargill Nutrena Small Animal Experience was a huge hit with families and young children,” said Jim Baron, manager of the Northwest Washington Fair. “We’re very grateful to the Barn Buddies 4-H Club for contributing to this popular exhibit.”

The Northwest Washington Fair will celebrate its 100th year Aug. 16 to 21, 2010. For more information, call (360) 354-4111 or visit www.nwwafair.com.