All Claremont residents are invited to Claremont Day at the Los Angeles County Fair this Thursday, September 18. The fair is open from noon to 11 p.m. on Thursday.

In addition to discounted admission for residents, the day’s festivities include a Community Hero presentation at 4:15 p.m. in Court of the Redwoods followed by a parade at 5 p.m. This year’s Claremont heroes are Edgar Vargas, Robin Gottuso and Ginger Elliott.

Young adult hero Edgar Vargas demonstrated incredible leadership at his school, Vista del Valle Elementary School. The school started Vista Green Team as part of the Grades of Green non-profit trash-free challenge, which encourages schools across southern California to create positive environmental initiatives in their communities. Edgar took the helm at Vista and, under his leadership, Vista reduced 95 percent of its waste. Edgar gave up morning and lunch recesses to help train other students to recycle and compost waste; he even motivated staff. The community installed a recycling center at the front of the school. Edgar also was instrumental in incorporating food from the school garden/orchard into the cafeteria. Thanks to him, the school was awarded a $1,000 grant and took first place in Grades of Green.

Adult hero is Robin Gottuso. Ms. Gottuso has volunteered her time with her church, Condit Elementary and Claremont High schools and AYSO, among other organizations. As a commissioner on the Claremont Community and Human Services Commission, she has led the city’s Independence Day Celebration organization and has supported many community-based services.

Senior hero is Ginger Elliott. Ms. Elliott was executive director of Claremont Heritage for 25 years. She diligently researched the demographics of the city and helped raise awareness of landmark buildings.  Ms. Elliott started the Third Grade Claremont History Program, which instructs third grade classes through the school district about Claremont’s history. She also began, and continues to run, the monthly walking tours of the Claremont Village and the Claremont Colleges as well as the annual home tours.

Claremont residents purchase tickets for Thursday, September 18 for $5 by visiting www.lacountyfair.com/buytickets and using the promo code “Claremont” in the Community Day Admission ticket field. Residents can also visit www.lacountyfair.com/communitydays/claremont to print a coupon to be presented when entering the fair.