View from the Cab: Fun at the Fair

This year’s Livingston County Ag Fair seemed like a huge success.

It was nice seeing so many people on the grounds of 4-H Park last week despite some rain and steamy conditions. But, then again, what would the fair be without a few storms and humidity? It is July after all.

I am always impressed with the hard work and dedication on display by area youth. From projects to livestock showing, these young boys and girls are our future and know the value of hard work. Kids showing up at 5:30 a.m. on show day tells you this event means something to them.

“We have a lot of new young families and a lot of excitement,” said Phil Kiefer who helped with Tuesday’s swine show. “ Livingston County has been known to be pretty competitive at the State Fair. We’ve got a lot of good kids.”

I couldn’t have said it better myself. Kiefer noted the good sportsmanship at the fair and the family-like atmosphere as everyone seems to know everyone else. The fair still remains competitive and fun where show participants shake hands at the end of the day.

The 86th annual event may be in the books, but be sure and mark the 87th fair on your calendar for next summer. My summer fair tour will soon take me to the McLean County Fair, Illinois State Fair and the Fairbury Fair.

Our family especially enjoyed the cool treats from the Prairie Farms ice cream stand. Nothing beats a cup of cold vanilla or chocolate in the middle of the day. The folks at the St. Mary’s kitchen also took good care of me with fresh cups of coffee each morning. And thanks to the Fair Board for allowing me to broadcast from the Show Barn area. I had a blast and plan to do it again next year.