Puster Elementary’s first school-wide family event, the Puster Country Fair, was a big hit on March 7. Nearly 700 people enjoyed all aspects of the fair, from the chili cook-off and pie eating contest to the silent auction and family photographs. Kids of all ages enjoyed the face painting, bounce houses, and carnival games. We were also lucky to have several group performances at the event, including the Lovejoy High School Majestics, Lovejoy High School Jazz Ensemble, Lovejoy High School A Capella, Heritage Ranch Line Dancers, Lovejoy High School Drumline, and the Cool Rockin’ Daddies!

Puster’s first chili cook-off rounded out the activities. The 31 entries included dishes from parents, students and staff. Official judges were brought into judge the chilies on 5 criteria. Judges included Town of Fairview Mayor, Sim Israeloff; Lovejoy Elementary Principal, Patty Jackson; and Puster Elementary's namesake and former district superintendent, Robert Puster. Once the judges were finished with their work, the sample line was open for everyone to taste the chilies. The first place winners in each category received a trophy and a $25 Uncle Julio's gift card; second and third place winners received a medal. Congratulations to our winners: Best Chili With Beans: 1^st place - Jennifer Gerber; 2^nd place - Garrett Martin; 3^rd place - Wendy Herran; Best Chili Without Beans: 1^st place - Sarina Hager; 2^nd place - Cynthia Record; 3^rd place - Danny Cantrell; Most Unusual: 1^st place - Olivia Hoemke; 2^nd place - Daryl Heussner; 3^rd place - Audrey Supan.

We also got a good laugh during the pie eating contest. The nine contestants dove in face first to see who could finish the pudding pies the fastest. Some even received advice from parents who had won eating contests at country fairs in the past! The winner was Arlette Goddard, Puster’s nurse. Thanks to all of our contestants - Travis Anders, Janet Anders, Cassie Arnold, Miller Spessard, Judy Cantrell, Jill Dwiggins, Dallena Nash, and Ros Lyne – for eating your way into our hearts.

Thank you to Mrs. Anders, the custodians, the teachers, Fairview police department, parent volunteers, and student volunteers. We could not have done this without your help.