With Cadiz On Main Director Brianna Hyde back in the fold, the Trigg County Country Ham Festival Committee reconvened Thursday evening — homing in on planning just three months before the big weekend.
Hyde said this year’s party “doesn’t have a ton of sponsors yet,” but several previous supporters have verbally promised larger allotments than in the past. Furthermore, representatives from Coleman’s Tire Service have come in with $5,000, and the Mason Jar is in for $500.
And while sponsorship promises will always be accepted, a hard deadline to make it on this year’s T-shirt is 4:30 PM August 30. Members approved screen print bella+canvas production through Hurricane Creek Traditions and Prickly Peach, both of which are donating $250 as sponsors, and though a few T-shirts will be available during the festival, pre-orders at $15 each will be accepted September 1 through September 25.
Questions still remain about senior transport to and from the festival, especially with a need for two shuttle buses running at all times from the school or some similar, safe property.
One question that’s been answered, Hyde said, is the weekend’s ADA compliance.
Each year, country ham options are available through different avenues — be it the annual largest ham & biscuit, the 4-H country ham competition and some select vendors.
City Councilman Tim Bridges, however, noted one of the biggest concerns he hears each year is the apparent lacking of salted pork for purchase.
As far as budget and finances are concerned, Hyde confirmed that Peak Audio Visual is handling lighting, stage and sound at $19,000, while several musical acts are already paid half or in full to lock in times and dates. She also noted permits and licensing, valued at more than $800, have also already been paid.
Hyde said she’s hoping to add a hog-calling contest back into the competitive mix, while committee member John Raymond Hopson confirmed that barrel racing will be part of this year’s activity calendar. He and his family are trying to wrangle in a time for September 28, but it “will be happening” regardless.
A prestigious annual award, Hyde also asks for “Spirit Of Ham Fest” nominees be made by email only, in order to not leak the surprise before its presented.
Also, a waiting list has been generated for booth space. Hyde said more than 400 vendors applied for this year’s 212 slots, and reflecting more sponsorship discussion, she added that a mix of tradition with new ideas has been key.
The group next convenes noon, August 7.
