CUTLINE: Fayette County Fair Board member Justin Steinlage (left) and Main Street West Union board member Dick Woodard display a few examples of the smaller items that can be donated during a metal recycling fundraiser to be held at the Fayette County Fairgrounds in West Union Friday-Sunday, Sept. 13-15. A couple Fayette County residents have already inquired about donating larger items, such as automobiles. The Fayette County Agricultural Society and MSWU will split the proceeds, which will be used for grandstand improvements at the fairgrounds and future MSWU-sponsored community projects and events. (Mike Van Sickle photo)

Another man’s junk could be a fundraising treasure

By Mike Van Sickle
Union editor
mvansickle@thefayettecountyunion.com

Whether you’re tired of stumbling over leftover parts from past home or automobile projects, or simply looking for a way to get rid of metal scraps that may be piled in a corner of your garage, tool shed, or barn, the Fayette County Agricultural Society and Main Street West Union (MSWU) have teamed up to host a metal recycling fundraiser Friday-Sunday, Sept. 13-15.

“We just thought this would be a great opportunity for residents to not only rid themselves of discarded scrap metal that is no longer of any use, but at the same time they can help benefit local community projects, said Dick Woodard of MSWU.

“The Fayette County Fairgrounds is in need of various structural upgrades, and the condition of our grandstand is among our chief concerns,” admitted Fair Board member Justin Steinlage. “In recent years a small band of volunteers have done their best to maintain the condition of the grandstand, but new restrooms and bleachers are still greatly needed.

“Understandably, the Fair Board was happy to hear that Main Street West Union had invited us to participate in this unique fundraiser,” he added.

The Fayette County Agricultural Society and MSWU will split the proceeds evenly from the three-day fundraiser. In addition to grandstand improvements, proceeds will be used for MSWU-sponsored community projects and events.

Woodard explained that during the event the donated scrap metal can be disposed of (during designated times only) in a 20-foot dumpster that will be located at the dairy barn on the fairgrounds in West Union. Volunteers will also be available to pick up items; advance notice is requested.

Among the various items accepted are water heaters, farm machinery, automobiles and parts, cast iron, and copper pipes. No appliances.

“When I recently helped one resident pick up items around their home, we discovered how surprised a person can be in the amount of scrap metal they find lying around,” noted Woodard. 

The Fayette County Fairgrounds are privately owned. The scrap metal is only to be dropped off during the hours of the fundraiser. No items are to be left outside the dairy barn or on the fairgrounds.

The metal recycling fundraiser collection times are from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14; and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15.

Persons wishing to have items picked up are asked to call (ASAP) Steinlage at (563) 422-5022 or Woodard at (563) 380-8882. Volunteers wishing to donate their time and/or a vehicle/trailer for picking up items are also asked to contact the two event representatives.