(KAIR)--Planning is underway for the 2nd annual Atchison County Fair Fundraiser, but, a release says "this year is a little different" due to what the release calls the loss of all general funding, due to 2025 Atchison County Commission budget cuts. Those funds, the release explains, were used for utilities, entertainment during the fair, insurance, maintenance, and any needed upkeep or renovations.

Last year, the release notes, saw "a great turnout" for the fundraiser, with the generated funds allowing for the replacement of half of the fairground's hog pens with all new ones. The fair board notes that this year, they "are relying on donations to continue the tradition" of holding the Atchison County Fair, with goals of finishing the hog barns and the construction of additional sheep/goat pens set for 2025. The long term goal, however, is the renovation of the fairground bathrooms to make them handicapped accessible.

Due to the amount of funding necessary, the board says the fair needs "more support than ever from Atchison County residents," with the release giving thanks for the "dedication and support" shown by county residents in the past.

The fundraiser is scheduled for May 31, at the fairgrounds, in Effingham, with a vendor fair to be held from 11 until 4:00. Lunch will be held at 11:30, with the silent auction to run from 12 noon until 7:00, while a pony pull is scheduled for 4:00. A pulled pork free will donation will be served from 5 until food is gone. The fundraiser will conclude with a street dance from 8 until 11:00.