Friend of the Fair, volunteers honored

As the Carbon County Fair celebrates its 20th year at its current location in Lower Towamensing Township, it is honoring a man who organizers said has been instrumental in its success since the beginning.

Fred Reinhard, president and chief executive officer of Pencor Services, was named the 2019 “Friend of the Fair” during opening ceremonies on Monday.

“Since the inception and revitalization of the fair in 2000, Fred has been an exemplary supporter of the fair,” Fair President Bob Silliman said. “Pencor has been a diamond level sponsor on an annual basis, but Fred has also been a personal supporter as well.”

Silliman said Reinhard’s support has included much of the large name entertainment at the fair, advertising and the purchase of animal pens for the 4-H exhibits.

“When equipment and equipment repairs have been needed over the past few years, Fred has assured us that he and his company will always be there for us,” Silliman said. “One of our most needed pieces of equipment was a bucket truck, and Fred made sure our needs were met with a very important donation.”

Reinhard also received a citation Monday from the state, presented by state Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-Carbon.

“Fred knows agriculture is the number one industry in Pennsylvania,” Silliman said.

Volunteers of the year

Three volunteers, Wilma Wentzel, Peggy Hittner and James Hittner were also honored on Monday.

Wentzel is in charge of the fair volunteers.

“She comes out here and really works hard,” Silliman said. “There could not have been a better choice for this honor.”

Peggy and James work the front ticket booth.

“They do so, so much for us and have never missed a fair,” Silliman said.