Updated at: 07/30/2010 4:32 PM | KSAX.com

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Wadena County Fair Kicks Off Despite Tornado Damage to Fairgrounds

WADENA, MINN. – The Wadena County Fair kicked off Wednesday evening and residents were excited, some even surprised, that the fair was still taking place despite this summer’s devastating tornado.

The tornado that swept through Wadena in June demolished a number of buildings that used to occupy the Wadena County fairgrounds.

“We had evergreens and we had trees. We had buildings for everything that went on at the fair. We had a grandstand, and now when I come out here it’s like a strange place,” Wadena resident Meg Gulsvig said.

However, the change in scenery didn’t affect the morale of the community.

“We’re excited. The fair is set up, the carnival is set up and things are moving along. It’s all coming together,” Wadena County Fair President Sheldon Monson said.

FEMA set up a booth at this year’s fair, specifically aimed at helping those who had property damaged by the tornado.

“There’s a lot of information that needs to get out and if they’re going to rebuild they want information on how to rebuild safer and stronger,” FEMA Public Affairs spokesman Richard Gifford said.

Gifford also said that most people were unaware that they could file a tax relief form if they had tornado damage on their property. Those forms, among other helpful materials, are available at the FEMA booth.

Written for the web by Kenny King
kking@ksax.com