A parade heralding the opening of the 46th Annual Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair starts today at 5 p.m. through downtown Statesboro. From dignitaries to floats, antique tractors and cars to horses, the 105-plus entry parade will meander from East Olliff Street along North and South Main Streets to Fair Road at its intersection with Zetterower Avenue.

                Grand marshals are Dr. Bruce and Kathryn Grube, and the parade's theme is "100 Years: Georgia Southern University Blossoms from Agricultural Roots." Dr. Grube is president of the university.

                Floats adhering to the theme will be judged and winners will be awarded prizes.

                The Statesboro Police Department will begin blocking streets around mid afternoon in preparation for the parade.

                After the parade, a grand opening ceremony will be held at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds on Ga. 67 outside of Statesboro at 6 p.m.

                Admission is free today.

                Many visitors enjoy "wrist stamp days" when the purchase of a wrist stamp enables the bearer to ride as many rides as he wishes, as many times as he wishes.

                Wrist stamps will be sold Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 13.

                Tuesday and Thursday the wrist stamps are available as soon as the fair opens and will cost $18.

                Friday is  "Midnight Madness" and wrist stamps will be sold only after 10 p.m., for $15, and the fair stays open until 1 a.m.

                Saturday the wrist stamps are good all day, sold as soon as the fair opens and will cost $20 each.

                The fair opens at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and opens at 1 p.m. Saturday.