The community of Ogema is busy preparing for Fair Days and Homecoming 2000 being held from July 7 to 9 at the Ogema Regional Park.

The event combines historical and fun activities and many opportunities to socialize.

The last homecoming was held in 1991, so people are really anticipating this event, says Ella Frank, secretary/treasurer for the Ogema Agricultural Society.

"It sounds like we're going to have a good turnout," said Frank. "There are also a number of family and school reunions planned for the weekend. Everyone's just looking forward to visiting one another."

Registration will start at 5 p.m. on Friday at the Legion Hall. The next day, the 86th summer fair will kick off with a pancake breakfast from 7-9 a.m. and a parade at 10 a.m. A horse pull will be held at 4 p.m. Special events include displays, a pet show and pony ride, ball games, livestock competitions, kids contests and games, and an outdoor saloon. A cabaret with a live band will begin at 9:30 p.m.

A Sunday highlight is the 21st annual Deep South Pioneer Museum Day. A pancake breakfast being held from 8 to 10 a.m. will be followed by an interdenominational church service at 10:30 a.m. The day will include tours of Ogema's pioneer village, designed to take viewers back to 1910-12. A parade will be held at 3 p.m. and displays and entertainment will be featured all afternoon. Threshing demonstrations and a slow tractor race will also be held. Old-time costumes will be displayed throughout the day.

Both daily and weekend passes can be obtained at the fair.