Submitted photo Fair fundraiser attendees await the outcome of bids on live auction items.

Figures for attendance and monies raised for last week’s Pierce County Fair fundraising dinner and auction were comparable to last year’s event.

According to Don Jelsing, coordinator for the event, an estimated 253 people came for the meal, and the total funds raised was “hovering around” the $25,000 mark.

NDSU Bison football memorabilia helped to buoy funds raised by the live auction, including a Carson Wentz helmet and jersey each bringing in close to $1,000 and an Easton Stick jersey and signed shoe each bringing in close to $950.

Jelsing said diversity in items for all ages and genders, from big teddy bears to Bison helmets, is one thing the fair strives for for the fundraisers.

“We try to be a little bit different than other fundraisers in the community,” said Jelsing.

Jelsing also said baked goods were a well-received item, especially from attendees who came from as far as Breckenridge, Minn.

“So word got out in Breckenridge that the Pierce County Fair has good baked goods,” Jelsing said.

The event also helped in another area: volunteers. Jelsing said three local financial institutions were at the event and signed up 28 volunteers for this year’s fair. Jelsing added that the call for volunteers is still open and persons willing to do so should contact Patricia Paul at Merchants Bank.

Jelsing said board members, which include himself, Don & Khloe Sobolik, Mike Ostrem and Mark Thiel, take suggestions for fair events.

“We’re not here just to run the fair by ourselves, we do want input,” said Jelsing. “[There is] no suggestion that’s too stupid, no suggestion that’s too small.”

This year’s fair will be held June 27-30 at the Pierce County Fairgrounds. Jelsing said posters and scheduling along with calls for open class exhibits would be coming soon.