Party Big Washington!

Put yourself in this picture and "Party Big Washington!"

Yes!  The Washington State Fair is fast approaching. Last year Park staff and volunteers talked to nearly 13,000 people and thousands more checked out our exhibits. This year the Fair runs from September 11th through September 27th (with Labor Day on the 7th, this is the latest start ever). 

The Park is an important part of the Northwest Outdoors Alliance. Our exhibits will occupy one of the largest spaces in the building. But the most important part is a real live person representing the Park Service, talking with all those enthusiastic fairgoers.

This year you have two opportunities to "Party Big."

#1. Staffing the Mount Rainier Informational Booth:  
Mon-Thur:  first shift 10:00-1:30, second shift 1:30-5:00, third shift 5:00-8:30.
Fri-Sun:  first shift 9:00-1:00, second shift 1:00-5:00, third shift 5:00-9:00.

Details:  We would like to have two park people for each of the three  3 1/2 or 4-hour shifts a day. The Fair has changed the opening times again so we have slightly different schedules for week days compared to Fri-Sun. This will necessitate 4-hour shifts on Fri-Sun. But those are the busiest days so you won't even notice the extra 1/2-hour. At the Information booth you answer questions about the park and the park service. Some resources will be available to help you with answers. You will also be helping with the hands-on activities in the booth.
 
#2. Staff the Snowshoe Walk:  
Fri-Sun:  first shift Noon-3:00, second shift 3:00-6:00

Details: On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 PM the NW Outdoors Building and Mount Rainier National Park will be providing a snowshoe experience (mainly for kids, but adults can try too).  The trail of straw will be an L-shaped loop about 30 yards long and will wander around and through a native plant display.  There will be two 3-hour shifts each day and we need at least two people each shift.  It will be a busy, but quick, three hours. 
   
If you'd like to participate, email Jim_Ross(at)nps.gov with what activity, date, and time shift would work for you.  Also please include your current mailing address so he can mail you instructions, maps, and tickets. Once you are scheduled in a time slot you will receive a letter with instructions, maps and tickets for admission to the Fair and a parking pass (together worth $25). You can experience the Fair before and/or after your shift.