FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, SEPT. 3, 2009

Kids and petting zoos—a winning combination

Contact:           Cathy Pressley, Exhibits & Concessions
cathy.pressley@ncagr.gov

FLETCHER—Mix kids with hungry, young animals, and the result is a win-win for both sides. That’s the recipe for success at the Circle C Petting Zoo returning to the NC Mountain State Fair September 11-20 at the WNC Ag Center in Fletcher.

The petting zoo is sponsored by the fair and admission is free to fairgoers. But parents are encouraged to have a few quarters available to buy some grain or carrots for the hungry critters to maximize a child’s enjoyment.

“This is a great way for us to allow kids to interact with farm animals and exotic species in a controlled environment where everyone has a blast,” says Fair Manager Matt Buchanan. “We will have hand-washing stations at the entrance and exit, and we want folks to have clean hands going in and coming out to keep things clean.”

The petting zoo is located on Piglet Park Avenue, adjacent to the Racing Pigs. This attraction will be open during all fair hours.
“Hand-washing stations will be located at all animal venues on the fairgrounds, and parents should make sure their hands as well as their children’s hand are clean before eating or drinking,” says Dr. Karen Beck, veterinarian with the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. “This will help keep everyone healthy and reduce chances of disease transmission.”

More information on the NC Mountain State Fair is available at www.mountainfair.org.

Jsk-1,2