Ford County Fair off to good start

MELVIN – This week’s Ford County Fair in Melvin couldn’t have gotten off to a better start with cool weather and a decent turnout so far.

Between Sunday night’s jackpot gilt show and the open and junior barrow shows Monday, the fair was up 50 to 60 head of hogs this year. That was music to the ears of Brad Pilcher, the fair swine superintendent.

“We are excited to have an increase in numbers,” Pilcher said. “It’s always good to get more young people involved in their 4-H and FFA projects.”

The longstanding tradition of a pork burger lunch with all of the fixings continued Monday during the midday hours. This gives exhibitors a chance to be together with friends and family enjoying some fellowship time. The pork was provided by the Ford-Iroquois Pork Producers while Heritage FS donated the grill and Crop Risk Services provided water.

Jennifer Dominy with Crop Risk Services believes it is great for businesses to get out and support the community.

“We want everybody to know that we are out here for them.”

The pork burger meal has been served for several years and Pilcher hopes to keep up the tradition for many years to come.

Fair participant Breck Hoffman of Colfax always enjoys showing at the fairgrounds in Melvin.

“This is one of my favorites,” the 11-year-old said.

Hoffman received fourth with his York and fifth with his Hereford on Monday. He also shows at the McLean County Fair and the Illinois State Fair in Springfield each summer. Hoffman even finds time to show some cows.

Thanks to our 2017 Central Illinois Farm Network Fair Central tour sponsors for making our fair coverage possible this year: Kilgus Farmstead, 1st Farm Credit, McLean County Farm Bureau, Ag Supply, Miller Insurance, Metz-Stoller Insurance, Carlos Bahler-Channel Seed, Alliance Grain, Fairbury-Cropsey Community Bank, First National Bank of Dwight and First Farmers State Bank.