May 11, 2013 2 min read

Have you seen them yet? A flock of plywood sheep has hit the streets to promote the 10th annual Sheep and Fiber Fest, May 18-19 at the Greene County Fairgrounds.

One is tethered on the porch of Bowlby Library, and the rest are trotted out each day to stand in front of Waynesburg Milling Co., Artbeat Gallery, McCracken Pharmacy, the Chamber of Commerce and tourism offices and in the window of First Federal Bank. Each is hand-painted, with room on the side to advertise the festival that celebrates the region’s wool heritage and has put Greene County on the fiber arts map.

This year, local businesses and organizations showed their support by sponsoring the signs. Sherwin Williams and Wayne Lumber donated the paint and plywood and local artists volunteered to paint them. Now, each sheep stands ready to be judged best of show.

“Vote for your favorite Sheep Sign – a penny per vote. Stuffing the ballot box is encouraged!” the ballot jars read. They can be found inside the businesses and organizations that are riding herd on them until festival weekend.

Sheep signs will then be rounded up and put to work herding festivalgoers. They will point the way to shearing, weaving, lamb recipe sampling, fiber arts and photo contests, kids activities, live music, fleece to shawl contests, the Historical Society’s Civil War table, complete with woolen uniforms and war and wool memorabilia, sheep dogs attempting to herd ducks, breed pavilions, and the dozens of crafters, artisans and fiber related businesses with goods for sale.

The cans will be at the information booth both days. On Sunday, the winner will be announced. The sponsor of the sheep sign receiving the most votes wins the $100 prize.

“We’re hoping to get even more sheep painted next year and have another contest to add to our herd,” festival committee volunteer Judith Galbraith said.

Festival programs are available where the sheep signs are and also at Direct Results and other businesses around the county.

Call Direct Results at 724-627-2040 for more information. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.