The Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair only happens once a year. The recent 178th edition was a perfect opening ceremony. It really is a huge reunion, as evidenced by the many hugs, handshakes and, yes, tears. How the memories flowed.
This reminded me of Darrell Cubbison and a suggestion he made about 30 years ago. Because so many families attend Mass on Friday and Saturday, they have to miss their usual services. So Cubby suggested to the 4-H Junior Leadership Club that they plan a service to officially open each Mass at 10 a.m. on Sunday morning. That way, families could pray together before the competition begins.
It was held in various locations, including the main stand and various tents. The final mass was held in the Colosseum, a perfect setting.
Many have said they have never seen the Coliseum so crowded, the message so profound, or the weather so perfect. Please plan to join us again next year. This sets the tone for the week. Donations will go to our own 4-H Endowment Fund.
It is difficult to find the right words to describe our wonderful young people. They make us so proud as they step into their leadership responsibilities. Hopefully they will choose to stay here and promote agriculture, enjoy their rich heritage and raise their families.
The great support of our local businesses cannot be overstated. The top dollar they pay, the cement and asphalt laid to make the barn entrances more handicap accessible, the stairs that were replaced, the beautiful ironwork and gates the welder created, and the beautiful auction podium built by the West Muskingum FFA. The list is endless and also includes our local churches and food stands that feed us so well.
We also thank our fair board for their dedication and leadership. The new white racetrack fence looks like a crowning achievement. That’s what you call renewal. That’s what makes it a Blue Ribbon Fair. We hope to see you all again next August.
Dorothy Montgomery is a former teacher, 4-H advisor, and district commissioner.
