Sisters man is fair foundation president

Jim Fisher of Sisters is president of the newly-organized Oregon State Fair Foundation, Inc.

According to Fisher, the foundation has been formally organized to seek contributions from individuals, businesses, organizations and other foundations to make improvements and initiate new programs for the fair that are not possible under current funding.

In addition to Fisher, officers include Becky Tymchuk, vice president, Beaverton, fund-raising and non-profit consultant; and Kellie Lute, secretary-treasurer, Salem, director of operations, Senator Gordon Smith's office. Other directors are Nan Dewey, Wilsonville, legislative lobbyist; Kimberly Medford, Portland, attorney with Stoel Rives; and Ted Stang, Salem, retired executive director, Salem Hospital Foundation.

"The foundation will be building on the strong support that Oregonians have shown for the State Fair in the past," Fisher said. "We are excited about what this effort will have for the future of the fair."

Establishment of the foundation was supported by the Oregon State Fair Commission, the Community Partnership Task Force reviewing State Fair plans and operations, and the State Legislature that approved legislation during the 2003 session setting guidelines for the foundation.

Contributions to the Oregon State Fair Foundation can now be made by individuals, organizations and businesses by contacting the foundation at P. O. Box 7267, Salem, Oregon 97303.