The 2009 Newton County Fair Demolition Derby on Saturday evening, July 25th at 7:30, is sure to be a hit once again.  Only the Saturday scheduling of this most popular event is traditional.  Each edition of the demo derby proves to be a unique performance, and this year’s produced by Jeff Strasburger will be no exception!

     Competition is divided according to the number of entries.  Normally four or five heats are conducted to select the final group of cars and drivers.  Two cars from each heat are allowed to participate in the feature and compete for the first place prize money and the trophy.  Winners of each heat are given a trophy.  There is also a powderpuff heat for women only. The powderpuff winners compete in the final heat also.  The winner is the final driver who makes the last hit of the contest. 

     Car preparation by the drivers normally begins months before the fair.  Certain alterations such as removing glass, moving the gas tank to a secure position inside the car and cutting a hole in the hood above the carburetor are allowed.  Other alterations such as moving the radiator or fan or reinforcing parts of the car are prohibited.  All details are clearly outlined in the official rules.  During the competition, drivers are timed between hits on other cars.  Each driver must hit another car within a one-minute time period.  If they fail to do so they are out of the competition.  Drivers can be disqualified if the car door opens, or if the drivers deliberately hit another driver's door.  Drivers must be 21 years old or have a notarized permit from their parents.  Drivers must also sign an insurance release form.  An entry fee is charged per car.  For rules and information, contact Jeff Strasburger at 219-474-6595. 

The Demolition Derby has always been a crowd pleaser, and this year's edition should be no different.  Make plans to attend this year's smashing show!

   Monday's Little Miss and Mister Contest kicks off all the fun at the fair for the younger set.  It begins at 6:30 P.M on Monday, July 20th, leading off the Queen Pageant. The competition consists of several categories and offers all fairgoers an entertaining and enjoyable program.  Last year's winner fulfilled the duties of assisting Miss Newton County Fair at some events well but will relinquish her crown to some lucky young lady at this pageant.  For more information, contact Denise Shedrow at (219) 474-6977.

  The Pedal Tractor Pull is still a favorite at the fair and the excitement starts Wednesday night!  At 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 23rd, children of all ages will have a chance to enjoy the competition in this event.  Joe Shide and his crew make sure this event works just as its adult counterpart except it's not the horsepower but legpower to the pedals that assures success.  Contestants usually range from the ages of 4 to 9 and offer the crowd their best effort to get that sled across the line for a full pull.  The sled and tractors are furnished by JL's Aggressor. For the “Kids at Heart”, an Adult Trike Pull will follow the Pedal pull.  Mark Reed will once again be producing this event which proved great fun last year. These events offer great competition and plenty of excitement. Don't miss it!

  There is still plenty to do for older kids as well!  Starting at 6:00 P.M. on Saturday, each night is a Ride Pass night so they can ride all the Anderson Amusement rides till they drop!  The Fair Board is once again offering the Pun'kin Vine Special -- Ride from Monday until Saturday for $30.00!  Advanced purchase is required for this offer so contact a Fair Board member for more information!

  So you see, there's plenty for kids of all ages at the Newton County Fair!  Don't miss out on the fun!!