Ohio State Fair - Saturday, 31st

Visited: July 31











The fourth day of the fair, I once again visited Brown Arena for the Jr. Breeding Sheep show. I met the Southdown lamb breed queen and once again saw Meighan, the 09-10 Ohio Lamb and Wool Queen. Roger, a member of the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association, was present at the junior show. I had previously met him at the Governor's residence. The Vet Education Center featured baby animals born throughout the week at the fair, such as calves, lambs, or chicks. I also visited the Voinovich Livestock Center and helped Jacquie pass out awards at the Jr. Beef show. I visited the Poultry Pavilion, which was packed with chickens and turkeys. The Natural Resources Park was my next stop, and I said hello to Smokey Bear. I watched as kids kayaked in the pond, too. The Agriculture and Horticulture Building had a neat photo opp. provided by the Ohio Farm Bureau team. Afterward, I rode in to the National Holstein Dairy Futurity on a wagon pulled by draft horses with a few of the State Fair Commissioners and Ohio Department of Agriculture employees. I met the Ohio Holstein Queen at this show that was held in Cooper Arena.

Ohio State Fair - Friday, 30th

Visited: July 30

I started my day by visiting the DiSalle Creative Arts Center and tasting some delicious "savory cheesecakes" at the Smile and Say Cheesecake competition. Cathy and Sherri, two of the State Fair commissioners were present to help with the judging. I also picked up a People's Choice Awards ballot and voted for my favorite items on display such as decorated cakes, quilts, and photographs. I watched in amazement as sheep were being sheared by their owners at an alarmingly fast rate. The Sheep Shearing contest was judged on how fast a participant could shear his or her sheep and the quality of the shearing. I also bought myself a bright orange 2010 Ohio State Fair souvenir T-shirt!

Knox County Fair

Visited: July 30

The Knox County Fair is set on beautiful rolling hills. Although some people may complain about walking up and down the hills, it was a gorgeous setting for the fair. Shortly after my arrival, I was welcomed by the 4-H Educator, Larry. Larry had been my 4-H Ambassador Advisor for the state 4-H. He introduced me to Robin, the Knox County Jr. Fair Queen, and Dan, the Knox County Jr. Fair King. I also met the smiley Alexis, who was Little Miss Knox County. Alexis was celebrating her eighth birthday! We were soon whisked away to meet Craig Morgan, who would be performing on stage later in the evening. T-100 radio hosts introduced Robin, Dan, Alexis, and I on the stage prior to the Craig Morgan performance. The six of us threw out frisbees to the crowd that had been autographed by Craig. Craig Morgan put on one of the most AMAZING concerts that I have ever seen! He is so down to earth and can relate to the average person. After the concert, Larry explained how things worked in the fair's Junior Fair Board office. They have a very structured system when it comes to storage of the ribbons and informational binders for the shows. It was very impressive. If an exhibitor wins champion in any species, he or she receives a sign to hang on his or her pen signifying that it is a champion animal. At the end of the fair, the exhibitor can then choose to purchase a sign like the one they have as a keepsake and even have it personalized. The exhibitor may also choose to return it for the fair next year. Knox County has a very large Junior Fair Board that consist of approximately 50 members.

Summit County Fair

Visited: July 30
Howard, the OFMA's executive director, escorted me around the fair. Howard had been on the fair board for 27years and served as the president for several years. He informed me that the Summit County Fair is a newer fair, it was 53 years old, since it began in 1957. I had the opportunity to meet the fair's queen, Megan. She shows horses; I learned that the horse project is very popular in Summit County. I watched exhibitors compete for the title of Showman of Showman. The fair highlighted a number of antiques in the Summit County Farm Bureau Antique Museum. The building was created in 1991. Good Luck to Megan as she continues her year as fair queen!

Ohio State Fair - Thursday, 29th

Visited: July 29

I had the pleasure of attending the 35th annual Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame Luncheon at the Rhodes Center, where eight new honorees were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Those individuals who were inducted were:

Charles Cox (Franklin Cty)
Dennis Elliott (Franklin Cty)

Richard Falter (Sarasota Cty, Florida)

Opal Holfinger (Miami Cty)
Richard Indoe (Medina Cty)
David Madison (Franklin Cty)
Jeffrey Milgrom (Franklin Cty)
Rose Stough (Crawford Cty)

These dedicated individuals were inducted for their leadership and various contributions to the success of the Ohio State Fair. I had the honor of sitting at a table with David Madison, one of the inductees. He served as a Commissioner at the Ohio State Fair for 18 years and is, also, a past mayor of Bexley.

To view more detailed descriptions of each honoree, visit the link below. http://www.ohiostatefair.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=169%3A2010-hall-of-fame-inductees&catid=905%3Apress-releases&Itemid=129

In addition to the Hall of Fame luncheon, I attended the Open Market Lamb show. While visiting the show, I became acquainted with the 09-10 Ohio Lamb and Wool Queen, Meighan. I also enjoyed watching fellow 4-H members from my county show their lambs.

I soon ventured over to the Open Hereford Beef Cattle show, where the Ohio Beef Queen, Jacquie, was passing out awards. Jacquie and I were in 4-H together in Fairfield County. Although Jacquie is now too old to be a 4-H member, she serves as an advisor within the county 4-H program.

Later in the day, I made my way to the O'Neill Building where the Jr. Swine show was taking place. I once again visited the "biggest boar" at the Ohio State Fair. This hog has won the award for several years.

I took part in the parade on the fairground at 4p.m. Joining me on the float was the Ohio Ayrshire Queen and her princess. Care Bear, Cow Man, and the Geico Gecko also joined us.

Following the Parade, I visited the Agriculture & Horticulture building and watched kids climb to the top of the rock wall. I viewed the Christmas tree displays, too.

Vinton County Fair

Visited: July 29

The Vinton County Fair was a small but lively place. When I arrived, I was warmly greeted and a member of the fair board even announced my presence over the entire intercom system on the fairgrounds. Although she was one of the youngest queens I had met so far, Hannah wasn't shy. She welcomed me to the fair and proceeded to show me what the Vinton County Fair had to offer. The fair had a very neat display for the exhibitors to have their picture taken by. The people of Vinton County were extremely friendly and welcoming to me. While walking around, Hannah introduced me to many people; one of those people was "Jr". He was a younger boy who was as polite as could be. Hannah told me that he had won "Ultimate Showman" for the swine specie. Earl, a member of the Senior Fair Board, had me interviewed by the announcer for the "Tough Truck" competition, which was going to take place shortly. During the time before the competition, my family and I enjoyed the most wonderful homemade noodles by the VFW post. To top it off, we shared a piece of coconut custard pie, also homemade by the VFW.

Butler County Fair

Visited: July 28













The OFMA president, Dan Martin, met up with the Butler County Fair's King, Queen, and I at dinner on the fairgrounds. I had a delicious meal! The king, Evan, and the queen, Emily, were both former state 4-H camp acquaintances of mine. Evan, Emily, and Dan led me through all of the livestock barns and a really cute youth barn. "The Farm Zone" youth barn featured baby animals and kids activities. The beef cattle barn had giant fans installed this year. These fans were excellent, in the fact that, exhibitors did not have to bring fans from home. The barn, also, didn't have tons of extension cords running through it. While on our tour, we were treated to freshly baked cinnamon donuts. I had never had such a thing before; it was tasty! Evan, Emily, and I attended the rodeo that was taking place, and I learned that the grandstand had been built in 1913. Afterward, Dan took us to see a magician. This magician was outstanding! At the end of his tricks, he created a balloon for me that was a pink heart with two white turtle doves kissing. It was adorable! Evan was given a balloon of a pig riding a motorcycle! Upon my departure, Dan presented me with a lovely basket featuring the Butler County Fair's grandstand engraved on the nameplate.

Clermont County Fair

Visited: July 28 I was embraced with enthusiasm from the Clermont County Senior Fair Board. They were some of the most kind-hearted people I had met. The Senior Fair Board President, Bill, showed me around the fair. It was interesting to learn how Bill got his start on the board. He used to be a Sheriff in the county who ran the D.A.R.E. program. He was then asked to become a member of the board. I had the opportunity to talk with some 4-H'ers and their parents who were awaiting the results of the "Bake-It" competition. I even met the fair's princess, Leah, and the 4-H Program Assistant, Scott.
Bill informed me of the events the fair hosts throughout the week. One very well-attended event is the military recognition night. It is an event held in the grandstand that honors veterans and those currently serving in the military. I was told that it generates a lot of support from the community. Clermont County was also fortunate enough to have a new horse barn built this year. It was funded by a very unique organization called Friends of the Fair, Inc. According to the non-profit organization, they are, "an organization compromised of individuals striving to improve the facilities available to Clermont County youth for livestock exhibition." I also was introduced to Ohio House of Representatives 66th District representative, Joe. I was highly impressed by the friendly atmosphere of the fair!

Ohio State Fair - Opening Day

Visited: July 28

I began my day in Columbus with the opening ceremony for the Ohio State Fair. The governor and commissioners cut the ribbon and OFFICIALLY opened the fair. I am proud to say that the General Manager of the Ohio State Fair, Virgil, grew up in Fairfield County.

Following the ceremony, I reunited with Governor Strickland's wife, Frances. I then toured the fair with Governor Strickland and the commissioners. Our first stop was at the goat playground, a new exhibit at the fair. Little goats were romping around and playing with their toys. It was adorable! Then we ventured to the Ohio Proud tent where local food producers were featuring their items. There was jam and ice cream among other various foods. We visited the Agriculture & Horticulture building, where the Ohio Farm Bureau team was working.

The dedication of the Coliseum to former Governor Taft followed our tour. I absolutely adored meeting two little girls who asked to have their picture taken with me at the fair. I had a wonderful time talking with many people who were in attendance at the fair.

Like the Ohio State Fair's catch phrase this year, I had a "fairtastic" few weeks ahead of me!

Seneca County Fair

Visited: July 27

I had a fantastic time touring the fair with the Seneca County Junior Fair Board Vice-President, the fair king, and the fair queen ---Ellen, Chance, and Kourtney. In the llama barn is where a funny incident happened... my crown seemed to catch this one llama's attention. His eyes got really big and he craned his neck to follow me as I walked throughout the barns. When I approached him again, he leaned in towards me. His nose was about five inches from my face! I knew llamas were curious animals, but it definitely was one of the funniest things that has happened to me at a fair. Later that night, I got to watch my first pig scramble. The stands were packed, it appeared to be the biggest attraction at the fair during that time. I watched as the kids greased their hands in preparation for the event. While I was there, I had the chance to introduce myself to the audience. The Senior Fair Board President, Dan, was present to help run the scramble. It was a pleasure to meet the 1st and 2nd Queen Runner-Ups, Kari and Dani, at the scramble.

Lucas County Fair

Visited: July 27

After almost 3 hours in the truck, I arrived at the Lucas County Fair in Maumee, Ohio. I never realized how much people pay attention to who I am. When I arrived, I was greeted by Jo, a lady who owns a concession stand from my home county. She told me that she had seen an article in the local newspaper when I became fair queen. I had never met her before, but it was a great feeling to know that somebody had remembered me from a newspaper article! Dan showed me around the fair. He is the fair king and is also a horse exhibitor. Later in the day, he was going to participate in "contesting" with his horse. I also was surprised to see a grass ring that the ponies were showing in. I had never seen a grass ring at the fairs. The fair also feature a barn full of adorable baby animals.

Ohio State Fair - Butter Cow Unveiling Ceremony

Visited: July 27
I had the honor of attending the unveiling ceremony of the Ohio State Fair's famous butter cow display in the dairy products building. Many people gathered around the display case waiting for the paper to be taken off the glass. This year's display featured the traditional cow and calf. It also featured a Browns and Bengals player holding a football together that features the "Play 60" logo. The Dairy Association has partnered with the National Football League to raise awareness about eating healthy and staying active. More than 2,000 pounds of butter was used to make the display and it took 392 hours to complete.

Union County Fair

Visited: July 26










Sue, the marketing director for the fair, took me to the different livestock shows and had me introduced. I also enjoyed helping the 2009 Union County Junior Fair Queen to crown the 2010 Union County Junior Fair Queen, Taylor. I helped hand out awards during sheep showmanship and had the opportunity to award the Showman of Showmen award to Jakob. Below is an interview I had with Jakob following his win:

Jakob is 16 years old and in his eighth year in 4-H. He has shown sheep all of his 4-H career. This year was not the first time he has won the Showman of Showmen award. He had previously won the award when he was 11 years old. That is quite an accomplishment to win twice! He also found success in 2006, 2007, and 2008, when he won reserve champion with his ewe.

Shelby County Fair

Visited: July 26

I remember meeting Senior Fair Board members, Jerry and Pat, at the OFMA spring district meetings. They were extremely cordial to me when I arrived at the fair. I'd like to congratulate Staci on being crowned the Shelby County Junior Fair Queen, and Luke on being crowned the Shelby County Junior Fair King this year. Jean, the Junior Fair Board President, showed me around the fair with the king and queen. They showed me a really neat display booth titled, "What do you know about the Shelby County Fair?". It had questions, and if you flipped the chart, it then displayed the answer. We watched pig races. It was so cute; pigs raced each other around the track and even jumped into a pool! The pig that I cheered for was named "Dolly Porker". The fairground also had a really neat octagon-shaped center of a barn. Luke told me that the duck project has become a popular project in the past few years. There were many ducks in the barn when I visited. This year's fair was especially something for the people of Shelby County to be proud of, because it celebrated its 150th anniversary!

Carroll County Fair

Visited: July 25 Rain, rain, rain! It never stopped raining the entire time I was at the Carroll County Fair, but that didn't put a damper on my visit! Harold, a Senior Fair Board member, welcomed me to the fair and I joined the fair's Sunday morning church service. They even had a mime help teach a lesson. Luke, a past FFA member, drove me around the fair in the golf cart, and we tried to stay dry. One of the cutest things I had ever seen was that the trashcans were painted by the 4-H clubs a few years ago. It was a decoration competition. It really helped to dress up the fairgrounds. The draft horse pulls were going on, even in the rain. There was a costume dairy cattle show, where exhibitors dressed themselves and their cattle up. The winner was a girl who dressed as Paul Bunyan and painted her calf blue to resemble the blue ox, Babe. I was impressed that even though it was the last day of the fair, all of the animals were still present and the fair visitors could see them. I learned that the biggest industry in Carroll County is growing Christmas Trees. How unique!