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The first phase of a multi-phase improvement plan was recently completed at Timber Hall Event Center in Embarrass. Banquet tables and storage carts were purchased. New lighting and signage were installed. Bleacher seats and ticket booths were improved upon, and benches and 50-foot round pens for the fair equine events were added. Other new items include a PA system, generator and baby changing stations. IRRR supported the project with a $14,951 Culture & Tourism grant to the Embarrass Region Fair Association (ERFA). The total project investment was $29,902.
ERFA is an all-volunteer nonprofit that owns and operates Timber Hall and hosts the annual Embarrass Region Fair and other events throughout the year. ERFA serves Embarrass Township and the surrounding communities of Aurora, Babbitt, Biwabik, Breitung, Britt, Eagles Nest, Ely, Greenwood, Hoyt Lakes, Kugler, Morse, Fall Lake, Palo, Pike, Sandy, Soudan, Tower, Vermilion Lake, Waasa, White, Winton and Wuori.
Timber Hall serves approximately 10,000 people annually and has recently grown in popularity. It is available for rental year-round and can accommodate up to 450 people. It is used by community members for weddings, annual meetings, fundraisers and family reunions. The fair draws about 6,000 visitors and 300 vendor employees and volunteers.
“The Culture & Tourism grant enabled us to not only make improvements to the building, but also helped us host several new events, including the Eggstravaganza spring egg hunt which drew over 135 children,” said Tana Johnson, an ERFA director. “We were also able to implement changes to the fair operations which resulted in a higher attendance than previous years and an overwhelming amount of positive comments.”
Future phases of the improvement plan call for restoration and renovation of the Timber Hall, family restrooms, a commercial kitchen, an LED message board, ADA paths, and updated electrical, plumbing and lighting.
