While WVU has always had a strong presence at the state's biggest fair, their appearance this year will be even more exciting, said Denny Godfrey, WVU Extension division leader.
"This year, WVU has its own building called 'Mountaineer Country' in a main part of the fairgrounds," Godfrey said. "Inside, fair-goers can discover a range of educational and hands-on learning opportunities provided by the University from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily."
In addition to the many departments, colleges and schools with displays, there will be a mini-computer lab set up by WVU Academic Computing to model the latest in technological advances. Even more exciting, Godfrey said, will be interactive audio and television hook-ups between the fairgrounds and various WVU sites.
"From 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily, on the hour, every hour, fair-goers can stop by 'Mountaineer Country' and ask questions of various WVU representatives including WVU President David C. Hardesty, Jr., Assistant Head Football Coach "Doc" Holliday, and Mike Yura, director of WVU's new Forensic Identification Program. The interactive satellite hook-up will enable both parties to see one another and talk directly," Godfrey said.
The WVU School of Journalism plans an interactive display, too. Visitors to this booth can have their photographs placed on the front page of a mock newspaper.
Their photo, taken with a digital camera, will be electronically scanned into the publication so that it appears on the front page of the publication, Godfrey said. "The newspaper, which they can take with them, will contain real information about the school, so that the publication will be useful, fun and a great way to showcase the latest in media technology," he said.
An alternative fuels race car will be on display from WVU's College of Engineering and Mineral Resources, and a poison control specialist will be available to answer questions. Outside of Mountaineer Country will be a special Mountaineer Market where a range of WVU-style products will be on sale.
Activities provided by other vendors during the week include stunt shows, agricultural exhibits, arts and crafts shows, food and more.
For more information, call Melissa Newhouse at 304-293-8021, or log-on to the State Fair website at www.wvstatefair.com A complete schedule of the interactive video system participants and the times they will be available to answer questions can be obtained by calling Karen Zeller, 304-293-5520.
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