DATE:     3/26/04
CONTACT:  Howard van Dijk, (803) 788-5700, ext. 31; hdijk@clemson.edu
WRITER:   Tom Lollis, (803) 284-3343, ext. 241; tlollis@clemson.edu

Sparkleberry Country Fair theme
is 'Community, Unity and Country'

     COLUMBIA --  It's almost fair time again - Sparkleberry Country
Fair time, that is.
     This annual spring celebration for Northeast Richland County
centers around the Sandhill Research and Education Center, home of the
Clemson University Institute for Economic and Community Development and
the Extension Service office for Richland County.
     This year's fair, set for Saturday, April 24, will have a
patriotic theme with military honors, recognition and displays.
"Community, Unity and Country" is the theme.
     "Agriculture, Past and Present" remains the a theme for the
agricultural displays that are so essential to the "country" flavor of
the fair, according to Howard van Dijk, Clemson Extension area animal
scientist serving on the Sparkleberry Fair Planning Committee.
     "This year's fair will be bigger than ever, with more exhibitors
and displays showing South Carolina agriculture and wildlife," said van
Dijk.
     "We'll have military exhibits and programs that honor the men and
women serving our country."
     The Sparkleberry Country Fair is designed as a family event, and
last year it drew approximately 24,000 persons. Funds raised during the
day go to provide scholarships for students from the area to attend
Clemson University.
     "There will be good food and lots of entertainment throughout the
day," said van Dijk. Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. on April 24 and the
event will close around 5 p.m.
                                    END