Latest news with #JimMcKiernan
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
Grant Co. Fairgrounds preparing for busy season
May 14—MOSES LAKE — The days are getting warmer and with the Grant County Fair just around the corner, the fairgrounds team is ramping up its preparations. Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan announced upgrades to the facility aimed at enhancing safety and overall visitor experience, while simultaneously addressing a crucial staffing shortage for seasonal positions. The legislature decided to table some bills that could have had impacts on the fairgrounds. The 187-acre facility, recognized as the largest equestrian venue in the state, is not only known for the annual Grant County Fair but is also a year-round destination for events that draw thousands from near and far. Upgrades The county is finishing approximately $1 million in upgrades to ensure the safety and satisfaction of fair attendees this season. Key improvements include new lighting, enhanced security cameras, a modern public address system and improved fencing around the property. These upgrades come in response to safety concerns stemming from a gang-related shooting incident during last year's fair. "A lot of our efforts, as far as capital projects, are having to do with safety this year as a result of last year's shooting," McKiernan said. The incident, which occurred in August 2024, left two teenagers injured and raised questions about security protocols at the outdoor venue. "Instead of installing metal detectors, the fairgrounds are focusing on visibility by using better lighting, more cameras, and more officers to watch the grounds," McKiernan said. In line with this approach, the facility is increasing its security camera presence from 19 to approximately 50 cameras throughout the fairgrounds, with monitoring stations set up at crucial locations. Improvements to the lighting are also substantial. "We've put in new lighting in a lot of the areas ... most of the grounds have new high-intensity lighting," McKiernan said. Grant County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Joey Kriete highlighted the benefits of improved lighting, describing it as being comparable to "daylight," which will significantly enhance visibility for law enforcement during nighttime events. The installation of the public address system aims to enhance communication throughout the fairgrounds. "We're going to put speakers in the shops and everything so all the campgrounds can hear," said McKiernan. This upgrade will make it easier to notify guests in real-time regarding any incidents or safety concerns. Staffing challenges While infrastructure improvements are taking center stage, McKiernan expressed concern over staffing shortages that could jeopardize the operational readiness of the fairgrounds as the busy season approaches. Traditionally, the fairgrounds hire four to six seasonal workers to manage the increased workload during the fair. However, this year, McKiernan reported difficulties in filling these essential roles. "This year has been particularly tough for us," McKiernan said. "We usually start hiring in March, and while we've successfully filled our office positions, our search for outside crew members has not been fruitful." With very few viable applications received, the fairgrounds are at risk of being short-staffed in the weeks leading up to the fair. The seasonal positions offer a wage of $20.25 per hour for guaranteed 40-hour workweeks, with potential overtime available. The roles require applicants to be at least 18 years old and physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. Duties include outdoor maintenance, event setup, landscaping, and custodial responsibilities, critical for preparing the fairgrounds for a successful event. "My crew is already stretched thin, working seven days a week, 12-hour days during the fair and the week before," McKiernan stated. "If we don't hire additional seasonal staff, we may not be able to manage the events we have scheduled." He urges potential applicants to visit the Grant County government website for job postings. Legislation Senate Bill 5098 which had been set to ban firearms in public areas where children may be present, had brought up concerns for the fairgrounds, according to both McKiernan and Kriete. The bill, if it had passed, would have allowed weapons to be restricted in public buildings, parks, playgrounds and county fairs. The August fairgrounds shooting had brought up concerns for bill sponsor Javier Valdez, D-Seattle. Valdez is originally from Moses Lake and said the shooting had encouraged him to bring forth the legislation. However, Kriete and McKiernan said they did not believe the bill, if it had been in effect last year, would have prevented the shooting. "The only thing I would say is that the bill is not going to mitigate the situation we had here at the fairgrounds," McKiernan said. "A 15-year-old was illegally carrying. He was already breaking the law. Anybody that's trying to get a weapon in, when you have 187 acres and 4,000 feet of fencing, probably can." Kriete agreed. The bill did not pass through the legislature though. Instead, it had one vote in the Senate of 28 yeas and 21 nays. When it made it to the house, it was transferred back to the Senate Rules Committee on April 27 and was not seen again. Events: May 16-18 WAHSET State Finals The WAHSET State Finals are set to showcase the top high school equestrian talents at the Ardell and Harwood Pavilions. This prestigious event promises heart-pounding performances with precision maneuvers and captivating displays of horsemanship. Participants and spectators can anticipate a weekend filled with fierce competition and dedication. May 31 CBBRC Spring Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club will host the Spring Classic 5D Race at the Ardell Pavilion starting at 10 a.m. Attendees can expect thrilling barrel racing action with lightning-fast turns and a vibrant atmosphere. For more details, visit June 11 11th Annual Senior Picnic The 11th Annual Senior Picnic will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the commercial building, featuring entertainment, food, giveaways, and vendor booths. Seniors over the age of 55 can attend for free, while those 55 and younger will be charged $5. For further details, visit June 14 Monster Truck Nitro Tour The Monster Truck Nitro Tour offers two pit parties, one from noon to 1 p.m. and another from 6 to 7 p.m., both held in the Blue Parking lot before the main events in the Rodeo Arena. The first show starts at 1:30 p.m., with a second show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for ages 13 and up are priced from $19.95, children's tickets, ages 2 to 12, are $10, and children under two get in free; prices might vary, and tickets are available at the gate or through June 20-22 Cavalcade of Ponies Prepare to be captivated by the Miniature Horse and Shetland Pony Show at the Ardell Pavilion, hosted by the Northwest Miniature Horse & Shetland Pony Alliance. Enjoy a weekend of charm as these tiny equines display their beauty, agility, and delightful personalities. For details, visit June 26-29 WA State Junior Horse Show Enjoy a weekend at the Grant County Fairgrounds' Harwood Pavilion, where young riders showcase their talents at the Washington State Junior Horse Show. Events include everything from elegant dressage to thrilling jumps, highlighting the grace and skill of these passionate participants. Saddle up with 4-H for an unforgettable experience; for more information, head to July 11-13 PNW Ranch Horse Show The Harwood Pavilion will host the PNW Ranch Horse Show, where riders and their horses will display skill, agility, and impressive horsemanship. Spectators can expect to be captivated by stunning maneuvers and thrilling performances. For additional details, visit July 18-19 NWJSE and WSSP Ram and Ewe Sale Visit the sales barn this weekend to explore top sheep from the Pacific Northwest at the NWJSE and WSSP Ram and Ewe Sale. Enjoy various sheep-related activities happening throughout the fairgrounds. For further details, visit July 26 CBBRC Summer Classic 5D Race Get ready for the excitement of the Summer Classic 5D Race hosted by the Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club at the Ardell Pavilion, starting at 10 a.m. Riders and their horses will race against the clock, turning barrels into a thrilling display of speed and agility. For details, visit Aug. 12-16 Grant County Fair The Grant County Fair offers a variety of attractions, including carnival rides, games, vendor stalls and live music. Attendees can enjoy unique experiences like space-themed burgers and the chance to pet farm animals. Ticket prices range from $4.50 to $17, and more details can be found on their official website, Aug. 22-24 Western States American Breed Congress Get ready to showcase American breed excellence at the Western States American Breed Congress, hosted by the Inland Empire Buckskin Horse Association at the Harwood Pavilion. This event, held every August, features ABRA and AQHA classes along with added money open futurities, bringing breed enthusiasts together to celebrate American horse diversity. For further details, visit Aug. 29 — 31 Producers Gone Wild Producers Gone Wild presents an intense barrel racing event, organized by Best Of Barrels Only, showcasing the thrilling spectacle of top-tier riders and their skilled horses. Taking place at both the Ardell Pavilion and the Harwood Pavilion, this exciting competition promises a vibrant atmosphere as participants navigate the fast-paced course, demonstrating remarkable speed and agility. For additional details, participants and spectators can visit the official website at Sept. 6 CBBRC Fall Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club invites participants and spectators to the CBBRC Fall Classic 5D Race, set to commence at 10 a.m. at the Ardell Pavilion. This exciting event promises a day filled with the dynamic energy of barrel racing, showcasing riders and their horses as they navigate tight turns and thunder down the arena. For additional details about the event and registration, please visit Sept. 19 — 21 NWBHA Finals Get ready for the ultimate barrel-racing showdown at the Northwest Barrel Horse Association Finals, held at the Ardell Pavilion. This high-energy event showcases the skill and speed of riders and their trusted horses as they navigate a cloverleaf pattern around barrels, competing for top honors in the sport. For more details on this exciting competition, visit Sept. 26-28 Fall National Antique Tractor Pull The Fall National Antique Tractor Pull, hosted by Pullin' Sleds LLC, is poised to transform fields into a captivating showcase of horsepower and historical significance. This event celebrates the golden era of agriculture while offering participants and spectators a thrilling competition that highlights the power and performance of vintage tractors. Set to take place in both the Agriculture Building and Ardell Pavilion, the tractor pull promises an immersive experience into the rich legacy of farming machinery. For additional details, please visit Sept. 27 Veteran Stand Down The Veteran Stand Down is a community initiative designed to provide essential services and resources for veterans, organized by the Department of Veteran Affairs in partnership with local organizations. This event typically features a variety of services, including haircuts, clothing distribution, food assistance and valuable information on housing and job opportunities, all aimed at supporting veterans in their transition back to civilian life. Held in the 4H Building, the Veteran Stand Down is offered free of charge to all veterans. More information is available at Oct. 3-4 '90s Flannel Fest '90s Flannel Fest is an exciting outdoor music festival celebrating the iconic sounds of 1990s alternative and grunge music, featuring some of the Northwest's most impressive tribute bands. The lineup includes acts honoring popular bands such as Sublime, Alice in Chains, Alanis Morissette, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, R.E.M., The Cranberries, Tool, No Doubt, Green Day and Stone Temple Pilots. With options for overnight camping and VIP sections, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances with hundreds of fellow music enthusiasts; for additional details, visit Oct. 9-12 WA Cutting Horse Fall Show Saddle up for a cutting-edge display of precision and skill at the Washington Cutting Horse Show, hosted by the esteemed Washington Cutting Horse Association. Get ready to witness the artistry of riders and their cutting horses as they showcase breathtaking maneuvers and split-second decision-making at the Harwood Pavilion. Get ready for a weekend filled with excitement, fierce competition and the undeniable thrill of the chase. For more information visit Oct. 18-19 Team Challenge Prepare for an exhilarating competition at Team Challenge, a high-stakes barrel racing event set to take place at the Ardell Pavilion. Organized by the renowned Barrel Race producer Best of Barrels Only, this prestigious event showcases elite riders and their remarkable horses as they compete in one of the season's culminating races. For additional details, please visit Oct. 25 CBBRC NFR Winter Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club invites equestrian enthusiasts to experience the NFR Winter Classic 5D Race at 10 a.m., showcasing the exhilarating sport of barrel racing. Participants and their horses will navigate a challenging course, competing for prestigious honors while demonstrating their skill and speed. This exciting event, characterized by thunderous hooves and sharp turns, promises a captivating day for both veteran riders and newcomers alike, and further details can be found on the club's official website, Nov. 1 Moravida Festival The Moravida Festival, now in its fourth year, is set to take place11 a.m.-7 p.m. at the G.C. Fairgrounds, celebrating the essence of life through the lens of Dia de los Muertos traditions. This vibrant event promises an array of family-friendly activities, including live entertainment, interactive children's crafts, and a variety of food vendors showcasing diverse cuisines. Open to all attendees free of charge, the Moravida Festival invites the community to come together in a spirited observance of culture and creativity; for additional details, visit Nov. 14-16 NW Arena Champs 6.0 RC Car Races The NW Arena Champs 6.0 RC Car Races, organized by the Northwest Rage Tour, promises an exhilarating experience for spectators. This exciting event features high-speed RC car racing and is open to the public, with free admission for families and racing enthusiasts alike. To learn more about the event and to stay updated with upcoming details, interested individuals can visit
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Grant Co. Fairgrounds has urgent need of seasonal staff
May 9—MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds is calling for immediate applications for seasonal positions as the county prepares for its busy fair season. Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan said the organization typically hires four to six seasonal workers each year to help manage the increased workload but has encountered significant challenges in filling these roles for the upcoming season. "This year has been particularly tough for us," said McKiernan. "We usually start hiring in March, and while we've successfully filled our office positions, our search for outside crew members has not been fruitful." Despite receiving a few applications, none have progressed, leaving the fairgrounds at risk of not being fully staffed for the crucial period leading up to the fair. The available positions offer a wage of $20.25 per hour for a guaranteed 40 hours a week, with potential overtime for up to five months. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. However, McKiernan conveyed that filling these roles is essential not just for the operation of the fairgrounds but for the well-being of the current staff. "My crew is already stretched thin, working seven days a week, twelve-hour days during the fair and the week before," he said. "If we don't hire additional seasonal staff, we may not be able to manage the events we have scheduled." The seasonal roles include outdoor maintenance and preparations, encompassing tasks such as event setup, landscaping and custodial duties. "We're looking for individuals who are willing to work and can lift 50 pounds," McKiernan said. "The job involves physical labor, including tasks like cleaning and maintenance, which are vital for the smooth operation of events." With the fair approaching rapidly, McKiernan advised potential applicants to visit the Grant County government website, where they can find the job postings and submit their applications. "We need people who are ready to contribute to our community and help us create a successful fair experience," he said. As the clock ticks down to the fair, McKiernan remains hopeful that the outreach efforts to local colleges and the community will yield the required applicants. "This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to earn some extra money and gain hands-on experience working at the fairgrounds," he said. For those interested in applying, visit and fill out an application.
Yahoo
14-02-2025
- Yahoo
Grant Co. Fairgrounds getting upgrades
Feb. 14—MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds is installing around $1 million in upgrades, according to Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan. The upgrades include new light towers and lighting at gates, additional cameras, a new public address system, improved fencing, removing track from the rodeo grounds, new bleachers for the rodeo and power and water stalls. There will also be increased policing staff at the fairgrounds this year. "A lot of our efforts, as far as capital projects are having to do with safety this year as a result of last year's shooting," McKiernan said. On Aug. 16, two people were shot within the fairgrounds. According to a statement issued Aug. 17 by Grant County Sheriff's Office, the incident began as a gang-related verbal argument between the suspect and members of a rival gang. The suspect, a male teen from Wenatchee, drew a handgun and fired one round, striking a 16-year-old girl in the back and a 14-year-old girl in the leg. "The debate is we're in an open carry county, and there's nothing to say that a person can't carry a firearm onto the fairgrounds," McKiernan said. "The debate has been to install metal detectors and all of that. We spent a lot of time with Live Nation and talking about their security at The Gorge. The difference between us and The Gorge is they are a private facility; they can institute whatever rules they want. We have Constitutional requirements that we have to follow. And so, since we're a government owned facility, we don't have the ability to make rules with regards to firearms that aren't Constitutional." McKiernan explained instead of installing metal detectors, the fairgrounds are focusing on visibility by using better lighting, more cameras and more officers to watch the grounds. The PA system will also allow for easier communication if an incident happens. Last year, during the shooting, the campgrounds were not notified of the incident. However, with the new upgrades, an announcement can be heard from anywhere on the grounds. "Things are going good out there," Grant County Commissioner Rob Jones said. "It looks good. Looks better than ever. I've been operating my business out there for 15 plus years, and it's nicer than it's ever been." McKiernan has also started a YouTube channel: @GCFairgrounds to provide the community with updates on what's happening at the facility. The first video is with GCSO's Sheriff Joey Kriete in regard to fairground safety. The full video can be watched here: "After last year's incident, I thought it would be good to try to alleviate some of the fears that people might have in the community and talk about some of the things that we're doing," McKiernan said in the video. Lighting and cameras The fairgrounds will have more lighting at the gates, south field (where many of the vendors set up) and the carnival venue. "We've put in new lighting in a lot of the areas," McKiernan said. "In fact, most of the grounds have new high intensity lighting. That'll help a lot." Kriete said the new lights are like "daylight," which will allow officers to see better throughout the grounds at nighttime. "We also saw that the lighting at the gates was a biggie," Kriete said. "I know that one of the things we were trying to do is identify others that may have been involved in that incident. And the lighting at some of the gates was such that we couldn't quite see detail of those people as they exited." Both McKiernan and Kriete said the upgrades to lighting will immensely improve security and make it easier to handle a situation if one arises. The fairgrounds are also adding around 50 new cameras around the grounds. Last year, there were 19 cameras, according to McKiernan. There will be three monitoring stations for the cameras this year as well with one at the sheriff's booth, one at the main office and one for maintenance staff. Security A new and upgraded PA system is being installed, which will be audible throughout the fairgrounds. Last year, during the shooting, McKiernan said the campgrounds and some perimeter areas were unable to hear the announcement. "We're going to put speakers on the shops and everything so all the campgrounds can hear," McKiernan said. "One of the things we heard was there were rumors about shooters, multiple shooters. I mean, rumors are rampant when you have something like that, but we want to make sure that people know exactly what's happening. We (want to) get as much information out as possible." The fairgrounds are also replacing a chunk of fencing, fixing holes and, McKiernan said, hopefully make it harder for people to sneak things in. "We did find that our fencing was really lacking in some areas, and we had some holes, and we just had to make a run through," Kriete said. "(McKiernan) made the request to get the whole entire area of the south end of the carnival location replaced." The fairgrounds will also have around 20 more officers this year for the Grant County Fair itself. It is contracting through an agency from Seattle that employs recently retired and off-duty officers as security. "The visibility of having that many officers on the grounds during the event is going to make people feel more comfortable," McKiernan said. "These are cops. These don't just have security licenses; they're certified police officers." The sheriff's office and Moses Lake Police Department will also be present at the fair. "Anytime we can have more security out here and qualified security people that are trained for that, whether it's off duty law enforcement officers, retired law enforcement officers, people that know the system (and) know what we, as far as deputies or officers, are looking for, is very, very supportive (of overall safety)," Kriete said. "They're going to be a great addition to the security of the fairgrounds." FAIRGROUNDS EVENTS: Feb. 14-16 Third Annual NW Winter Karting Nationals Ardell Pavilion $10 for 12 and under $15 for 12+ Feb. 15 Grant Co. Animal Outreach Microchipping and adoptions 4-H Building $55 for microchipping Adoption fees vary Feb. 28-March 1 Columbia Basin Home and Garden Show Commercial Building Free admission Feb. 28-March 2 Wenatchee Kennel Club Agility Trials Ardell Pavilion Free admission March 4 Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce Business Expo 4-H Building Free admission March 7-9 Barrel Spring Warm Up Ardell Pavilion Free admission March 8-9 NW Gun and Knife Show Commercial Building $10 admission fee March 15 Spring Farmer's Market Commercial Building Free admission March 14-23 Click It RV Show South Field Free admission March 21-23 North Central WA Junior Livestock Show Ardell Pavilion Free admission April 3-5 Sand Cup Futurity Ardell Pavilion Admission TBA April 10-13 Barrel Daze Ardell Pavilion and Harwood Pavilion Admission TBA June 14-15 Monster Truck Nitro Tour Blue Parking Lot and Rodeo Arena $19.95 Adult $10 Children 2-12 Aug. 12-16 Grant County Fair Youth $4.50 Senior $4.50 Adult $7
