For 22 years, the Crook County Fair has opened with the Greg Merritt Barbeque. Hundreds of fairgoers attend the barbeque, supporting the Greg Merritt Community Scholarship Fund which has provided thousands of dollars in scholarships to Crook County High School graduates. Recipients of the 2023 Greg Merritt Scholarship, who each received $1000 toward their education, are: Ana Laura Jacuinde Caballero who will attend Oregon State University, Jesse Wood attending George Fox University, and McKenzie Jonas attending Eastern Oregon University.
Seventy-five scholarships have been awarded since 2001 when family and friends established the fund to honor the life of Greg Merritt, a prominent local farmer and agri-businessman. Greg and his wife Gail strongly believed in education and community service and were involved in the fair and the 4-H and FFA auction for many years. Greg was a candidate for Crook County judge when he died of cancer at age 54.
The Crook County Fair opens at 5:00 pm, Wednesday, August 9. The barbeque is held under the big tent by the Main Stage from 5:00 – 7:00, or until the food is gone. The public is invited. A dinner of tri-tip beef, potatoes, salad, rolls, drinks and dessert is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under.
Entertainment will be provided by Crook County favorite Brady Goss and the Full Band. Admission to the fair and parking is f
