08242011fair

THE GREAT GEAUGA COUNTY FAIR Spot the 15 differences in the fair photos and you could win!

HOT D

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and you will

There are 15 differences between these two photos. Can you spot them? If so, you could win a $15 gift certificate to Bella Chocolates, a gift box from the Log Cabin in Burton filled with pancake mix, maple syrup and sugar candy, or a family four pass to Ridgeview Farm’s Fall Fun Weekends. Simply circle the 15 differences on one of the photos and complete the form below. Send completed entry forms to: Middlefield Post Contest, P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062. Three lucky winners will be chosen from the correct entries received. Deadline for entries is Sept. 2. Winners will be announced in our Sept. 14 issue. A special thank you to our contest sponsors: Bella Chocolates, the Log Cabin and Ridgeview Farm.

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{ the great geauga county fair }

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The Geauga County Fair Band Family

By Amy Hillis Playing in The Geauga County Fair Band is like living part of the American heritage. We play concerts throughout the summer including concerts for Flag Day and Independence Day. Each concert includes some patriotic songs and we often honor the veterans by playing service songs. For me, playing in the band is one way to celebrate the blessings God has given us in America.

The fair band is a family activity for many of us. I play clarinet, and my husband, Greg, and brother-in-law Dave are also in the band. There are several families that have multiple participating members, and in one family, there are three generations who play in the band.

We spend so much time together at rehearsals and concerts that we have sort of grown into one big extended band family.

The Geauga County Fair is the end of our playing season and the most exciting. We do two concerts each day at the fair. I really enjoy watching our concert audiences when the older folks tap their toes and the young children dance in the walkways. We play a wide variety of music and it seems there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check your fair schedule so you can catch one of our concerts at the fair.

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Amy Hillis is a clarinet player from Hartsgrove. Post Photo/Heather Flack, alto saxophone player from Mentor.

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By Christine Savides How many times do you get to play in a band with 89 other students with the smell of French fries, kettle corn, pigs and cows in the air? The Great Geauga County Junior Fair Band is filled with students from all over northeast Ohio. Students in grades six through 12 sit down and practice for two hours a week for four weeks, and then produce pure magic. The students I play with are some of the most talented musicians I know.

It doesn’t matter which instrument is being played, all of them are needed to produce a balanced sound, which hundreds of people enjoy year after year. Whether they stay to listen or just pass by, they hear the stories we tell within the music. We just don’t play the music as if it is just black splotches of ink on a piece of paper. We read a packet our director, Mr. Hillis, puts together. It tells stories about the music we play and about the composer, so we can interpret the black splotches of notes and tell a little story with sound.

I love playing my flute or piccolo and then glancing up and seeing a mother with her child dancing around to the music we’re making. It’s wonderful to see a grandmother or grandfather smiling as they proudly watch their grandchild respond to the music. I also think the band has changed me. It has helped broaden my knowledge of music and it has challenged me, which helps me become a stronger musician.

See the Junior Fair Band on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 11:30 a.m. and Monday, Sept. 5 at noon at the Vernon Howard Pavilion. Post Photo/ Amy Hillis

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The Fabulous Fort Huntsburg Band It was in the ‘80s when the Fort Huntsburg Band began playing together, but it was in 1990 when Bill and Mary Heath, and Jim Hein really got serious about performing. Today the Fort Huntsburg Band membership is made up of Bill Heath, guitar and vocals; Mary Heath, bass guitar and vocals; Jim Hein, rhythm guitar and vocals; Don Burrows, steel guitar and Chris Tenny, drums. They are still performing the classic and traditional country music that they love along with a little old rock and roll, swing and bluegrass (country style).

Summer is busy for the band. They play at fairs, local festivals, and at parties and concerts in the park. In the winter they perform at clubs. The band members feel fortunate to have the help of some great sponsors like Xocai Healthy Chocolate, Roadhouse Music, Middlefield Sign and BSG Steel Guitar.

This year at the fair the Fort Huntsburg Band will be playing Friday on the junior fair stage from 8 to 10 p.m., Saturday on the midway stage from 8 to10 p.m. and on Sunday on the midway stage from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

To learn more about the Fort Huntsburg Band, check their Web site www. forthuntsburgband.com, call 440-636-5178, or e-mail bill@forthuntsburgband.com. Post Photo/Bill Heath

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The Geauga Highlanders have been performing in northeast Ohio for the past 16 years as the only bagpipe band in Geauga County. Currently the band is comprised of 20 pipers and drummers, lead by Pipe Major Gary Quine, Pipe Sargent Dan Porter, Drum Sargent Emilie Cianciola, and Band Manager Todd Donnelly.

During the July 4,1994 Veterans’ Appreciation Day in Burton, Dale Bartholomew heard Bainbridge Township resident John Mackey, a Maple Heights police officer play “Amazing Grace” on the pipes and Bartholomew and Mackey discussed how to get a bagpipe group started in Geauga County. The band officially formed in March of 1995 and was originally supported and sponsored by the Burton American Legion Post where they practiced and held various fundraisers and performances. The band now practices on Sundays from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Arms Trucking facility on Route 322 (the former Claridon Elementary School).

The band’s basic purpose is to preserve and promote an interest in Gaelic heritage, culture, and music, and to educate and advance band members in Gaelic music theory and the skills required for highland bagpiping and highland drumming. Those interested in learning to play the bagpipes or drums, or those looking for a band to play with are encouraged to attend a GHPD practice.

The Geauga Highlanders Pipes & Drums perform at events throughout northeast Ohio and are a non-profit, tax exempt 501(3)(c) organization. See and hear them as they stroll the fairgrounds Saturday, Sept. 3 around 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 4 around 6 p.m. Post Photo/Todd Donnelly

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The Gospel Echoes Quartet The Gospel Echoes Quartet has been in existence in various formats for more than 20 years; however, the current lineup has been together for just a few short months. The members are Paul Hiner of North Canton who sings bass, Jim Rudesill of Thompson who sings baritone, Eric Nelson of Burton who sings lead and Wes Kretzer of Aurora who sings tenor and is also the owner and manager of the group. All of the members have been in other southern gospel quartets throughout the years and together they bring a vast array of knowledge and experience to The Gospel Echoes Quartet.

They enjoy singing at church and group functions, fairs, reunions and special events.

See them at the fair Saturday, Sept. 3 at 3 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 5 at 4 p.m. at the Bill Plants Pavilion. To contact them, call 330-562-489 or visit www.thegospelechoesquartet.com.

Post Photo/Eric Nelson

{ the great geauga county fair } Brittany Klarich and Radioactive Band Brittany Klarich has been singing at The Great Geauga County Fair for over a decade and is scheduled for a return performance at 3:30 p.m. on Labor Day, Sept. 5 on the midway stage. Her multigenre performance will include songs by artists ranging from Beyoncé to Norah Jones. Brittany has been performing with live bands since she was 16 years old and is now a part of Radioactive Band whose schedule includes performances at local venues such as the Boneyard in Mayfield and the Willoughby Brewing Company.

Brittany has recently begun working on the production of a pop-dance album with Gateway City Records, and the single Up ‘n’ Down featuring Brittany is now available on iTunes. The Great Geauga County Fair was one of Brittany’s first and favorite places to sing, and she looks forward to this year’s performance. Post Photo/Brittany Klarich

Geauga’s Own - Rae DeBevits Rae DeBevits has been in 4-H almost her entire life. She started as a Cloverbud when she was 4 years old, and has shown chickens, goats, rabbits, and her dog, Dollie, who went to the Ohio State Fair with her for three consecutive years. The Geauga County Fair is a special place for her because it reminds her of her childhood and brings her back to her down-home roots.

Rae is a fourth-year dietetics major at the University of Cincinnati. She’s been performing theatre arts since she was 8 years old and has been singing country music as hired or volunteered entertainment since she was 13. This year will be her ninth year at The Geauga Fair and she is thrilled to be back. See her Thursday, Sept. 1 at 5 p.m. at the Bill Plants Pavilion. Post Photo/Rae DeBevits

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Walnut Hill Coggers at the Fair

By Shanelle Wagoner The Walnut Hill Cloggers perfom at the fair under the direction of Shanelle Waggoner. The Walnut Hill Cloggers, formerly from Middlefield are now housed at The 8th Count Dance Center in Garrettsville. If you have missed these wonderful dancers over the years you can catch them in the junior fair building Saturday, Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 5 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Clogging is a folk dance that originated in the Appalachian mountains. The music and style has been modernized over the years. The cloggers clog to just about anything with a beat. From country, Irish, rock and pop, they have something that everyone will enjoy. They always end our summer of clogging performances with The Great Geauga County Fair and continue to look forward to bringing new and old songs to the fair each year. They are gearing up for a new clogging season for cloggers of all ages. If you would like more information on the Walnut Hill Cloggers, please contact them at 330-527-0358 or via e-mail at walnuthillcloggers@yahoo.com. Check out the Web site www.the8thcount.com Post Photo/Ronda Brady Photography.

Daily Fair Schedule Highlights Thursday, Sept. 1 Youth Day: All youth 18 and under admitted free Geauga Learn: A cooperative day of learning at The Great Geauga County Fair for sixth graders of West Geauga and Kenston Schools Reduced Ride Price: Noon – 10 p.m.

Demolition Derby: 8:30 p.m. in the Main Grandstand Chicken Flying Contest: Hosted by Dick Goddard of TV 8 at noon Friday, Sept. 2 Senior Citizen, Veterans’ & Youth Day: Anyone 65 and older, all veterans and youth 18 and under admitted free TNA Live: 8 p.m. in the main grandstand

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Demolition Derby: 8:30 p.m.in the main grandstand Sunday, Sept. 4 Band-O-Rama: High school marching bands from across the county perform live at the main grandstand at 1:30 p.m.

Rooster Crowing Contest: Hosted by Mark Nolan WKYC TV 3 at 4:30 p.m.

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Fair Souvenirs available in the domestic arts building.

{ the great geauga county fair } The Reign of a Fair Queen

By Tracey Teichman My name is Tracey Teichman and I am the 2010 Geauga County Jr. Fair Queen. I am currently a student at Chardon High School, and at Auburn Career Center. I am taking a basic medical class, hoping to help me narrow d o w n m y dream job. I am and have been involved in many different 4-H clubs and organizations in Geauga County: B r e e d e r s and Feeders, Plantmasters, Swingin Hams, Junior Leaders, Leadership Geauga, Camp Counselor, and I am the current president of the Junior Fair Board.

I got to be queen by being nominated by my 4-H club, Plantmasters.

After that I went for an interview in front of three random Geauga County residents. I then received a letter in the mail letting me know that I was chosen for the court. From there the clubs voted on the one boy and one girl that they wanted for king and queen.

I had quite a few responsibilities at the fair. Thursday night when the fair first opened was the crowning. All the nominees went to the pavilion, were driven around the fairgrounds and then brought up to the stage. Then it came down to the moment that we were all waiting for. It was time to crown the 2010 King and Queen. All I remember was how nervous I was and then all of a sudden they called my name. During the fair, the king and I went around to many

shows and handed out ribbons, trophies, and took pictures. We went around to the Band-O-Rama, the truck pull, and we took a hot air balloon ride. I had the time of my life. It was such an experience to work with all the kids and advisors. I feel so honored to have been chosen to represent G e a u g a County as the Jr. Fair Queen.

During the summer I went around to many festivals and fairs to visit with the royal court. I had a blast meeting people from all over Ohio.

This last winter I went down to the Ohio Fair Managers Convention to compete for Ohio Fair Queen. It was a great experience, and so much fun. This year at the fair I will be crowning the 2011 Geauga County Junior Fair Queen. There are so many wonderful guys and girls on the court and I wish them all luck. This is something that they will never forget. My words of advice for the new queen would be to have fun, and take lots of pictures. It’s so much fun to share what you do with others.

Being queen was the time of my life, and this is something that I will never forget.

It would have never been possible without my wonderful parents and the support of the Junior and Senior Fair Boards who were all there for me every step of the way. Post photo/Tracey Teichman

Junior Fair Board The Geauga County Junior Fair Board is comprised of members representing youth organizations from across the county including: 4-H, Farm Bureau, GHPA, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Grange.

The purpose of the Junior Fair Board shall be to promote the interests of Geauga County youth through educational exhibits and activities at The Great Geauga County Fair.

Whenever possible, activities of the junior exhibitors shall be coordinated for the benefit of the total youth.

Meetings are usually held the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on The Geauga County Fairgrounds in the fair board meeting room.

To become a representative of the Junior Fair Board, a youth must be at least 14 years of age or a freshman in high school. Youth must first complete an application. Potential members then go through an interview process. Finally, the selected youth are notified and then begin a rewarding fair experience.

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Bryan Briggs

Tom Somrack

Bryan is the son of Rick and Lisa Briggs of Troy Township. He is a 2011 Berkshire High School graduate. While at Berkshire, Bryan was a five-year member of the marching band and concert band. He is a 10-year member of Auburn Swine 4-H Club, president for two years, and a three-year member of Breeders and Feeders. During his 4-H career he has held many positions in his clubs, including health officer and environmental officer. Bryan has served on the junior fairboard and is a past president.

He is a 4-H camp counselor and has done many volunteer hours with the Geauga Park District and the Department on Aging. This fall he is attending OSU ATI to study beef and sheep management.

Tom, age 16, lives in Newbury with his parents, Larry and Colletta, and is currently a junior at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin High School. Tom is active in his high school, serving on the Campus Revitalization Task Force and on the St. Joseph of Arimathea Pall Bearer Society. At St. Helen’s church, he is involved in the Ross Group, who cook for spiritual retreats, and serve on the altar.

Tom is a Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop 99 in Newbury, and working on his Eagle Scout badge by coordinating a project at The Geauga County Fairgrounds. Tom is an active member of several 4-H clubs: Flockmasters, Granny’s Kids, Junior Leaders, and Plantmasters. He is active on Junior Fairboard and is a 4-H camp counselor at Camp Whitewood. Tom attended HOBY, a youth leadership conference in the spring of 2011. He is a volunteer for Leadership Geauga, runs a farmer’s market, and shadows a veterinarian in hopes of pursuing a career in agriculture.

Rick Loveland, Jr.

8 { Middlefield Post }

Aug. 24, 2011

Over the past eight years, Rick’s involvement in Geauga County 4-H, Junior Fair, Junior Leaders, Junior Fair Board, and his 4-H club, Little Porkers, has shaped him to become more responsible. He has taken on numerous leadership positions such as president of Little Porkers, class president, vice president of Student Council, editor of Ledgemont’s yearbook and newspaper, Teen Institute youth staff, LAB Alumni Representative, and Relay for Life team captain. He is also involved in the National Honor Society, HOBY (a youth leadership conference), Project Love, Teens Against Bullying, and Envirothon. Rick is a senior at Ledgemont High School and part of the varsity football and wrestling teams. He has raised swine, turkeys and ducks. Rick is honored to have been nominated, and being The Great Geauga County Fair King has been a dream of his since he was nine years old.

Sam Sharpnack Sam is a senior at Notre Dame Cathedral Latin High School and is the son of Linton and Patricia Sharpnack of Claridon. He is an active member of Geauga Caprine Kids, having served as president, vice president, and is currently their treasurer. He has received Gold Medal Awards for poultry, goats, leadership, and achievement and has also received the ambassador of 4-H award.

He is a member of Junior Leaders and Junior Fair Board and is a camp counselor. Sam is active in Spanish club at NDCL, is a member of the track and cross-country teams, and has been a member of the football team. He hopes to join the military after graduation from college.

{ the great geauga county fair } Junior Fair Court Queen Candidates

Sarah Anderson

Elise Bruening

Sarah is the daughter of Rick and Wendy Anderson. She is 18 years old and a graduate of Cardinal High School where she participated in Cardinaires. She has held three supporting roles in school musicals over four years, played varsity soccer, and is in the National Honor Society. She spent the past year as a post secondary education student at Kent State. Sarah has been in 4-H for 11 years, raising rabbits, ducks, turkeys, goats and pigs. She is also a member of Junior Fair Board and was a member of Junior Leaders. In the fall Sarah is attending the University of Findlay to pursue degrees in animal science and pre-vet medicine, specializing in large animals.

While pursuing her dreams, Sarah hopes to remain involved with 4-H as an advisor, as her experience with 4-H is what inspired her to chase her own dream.

Elise is a senior at Madison High School and lives in Montville Township. She has been in several 4-H organizations and shown swine, dairy and poultry at The Great Geauga County Fair. She was the recipient of a Gold Medal Award for leadership and one for achievement. She is a member of the Geauga County Junior Leaders 4-H Club and is a counselor at Camp Whitewood.

She is in math club, Student Council, prom committee, and National Honor Society.

Elise has varsity-lettered in track, volleyball and soccer, and represented her high school at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference at Mount Union University.

Elise raised over $1,100 for the orphans of Haiti and over $16,000 for Honor Flight Cleveland and World War II veterans. She will attend Lake Erie College and plans to complete the Physician’s Assistant Masters Degree program.

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Open: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm Saturdays by appointment Ashley Winters Ashley, 17, is a senior at Chardon High School, where she was an office assistant, a student tutor and a family consumer science teacher’s assistant. She lives with her parents, Tom and Debbie, and sister, Leigh, in Hambden Township. She is president of the Geauga County Junior Leaders 4-H Club and Braided-n-Banded Horse 4-H Club, and is a member of the Geauga Horse and Pony Association which she represents on Junior Fair Board. She is a member of National Honor Society, Symphonic Band, the American Quarter Horse Youth Association, Northern Ohio Quarter Horse Association, and Northeastern Ohio Horseman’s Association. She has shown her quarter horse at all levels of competition, and is a volunteer at the Geauga County home, and job and family services. She will pursue a career in medicine or animal science at the University of Findlay.

Kelsey Rumburg Kelsey has been in 4-H for 10 years. She is the current president of the Geauga Beef and Swine and All Cooped Up 4-H clubs.

She has shown breeding beef, breeding sheep, pack goats, calves and poultry.

Last year she completed and won the All Animal Showmanship Sweepstakes. Kelsey is also the current vice president of Junior Fairboard, and treasurer of Junior Leaders.

She has been a camp counselor for two years. Kelsey resides in Hambden Township with her parents, Ed and MaryBeth, and her many animals. She is a senior at Chardon High School and a full-time student at Lakeland Community College. She is a recent graduate of the Leadership Geauga Youth Program. From her junior fair experiences she has learned to make the best better each and every day.

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Aug. 24, 2011

New This Year at the Fair!

Kidbuck$ Game Show

This show heaps up a laugh a minute and keeps the large crowds it attracts pumped up and participating. Young or old, every one loves the show! An ever changing cast of randomly selected contests, keeps the show new and exciting. The kids are the stars of this show! This is the show that people will talk about and come back to see time and time again!

A thrilling game show where randomly selected members of the audience, participate in wild and crazy games. The final winner enters the Kidbuck$ chamber and grabs as many “Kidbucks” as possible, as they swirl about the chamber. Catch the fun, excitement and prizes!

If you would like to be a contestant on the show, you must arrive 5 – 10 minutes prior to show time and be between the ages of 3-15 years old to be eligible! You could be the big winner!

How the Game Is Played Nine contestants between the ages of 3-15 are chosen from the audience by a raffle system. The contestants are divided into three groups based on their size and physical ability.

Each group of three contestants play wild and crazy games to determine a winner. The winner of each heat moves into the winners circle to await the final round and the runners up all receive a prize.

When all three semi finalists have been determined, the final round is played. In this round the semifinalists “spin to win” on the winners wheel. Age and size give no one an advantage. Only lady luck knows who will win this round! The one who spins the highest number is the grand champion and enters the money chamber where they have 30 seconds to grab as many Kidbuck$ as they can as they swirl about the chamber. The Kidbuck$ are redeemed for prizes based on the number of bucks collected. Additionally at the end of the show, one more ball from the raffle machine is drawn and the person that is holding that ticket wins a prize as well. Post Photo/Paul Harris

“Gizmo” the Robot at the Fair You’ve never seen an entertainer like this at The Great Geauga County Fair. He is six feet tall, weighs 600 pounds and, oh yes, his mother was a washing machine.

Meet Gizmo D. Robot, a completely interactive robot per former with a wacky sense of humor.

This “charmer in armor” is fun for the whole family. He is 100 percent mobile so you may bump into him anywhere at The Great Geauga County Fair. His wise-cracking show is a non-stop standup comedy act on wheels.

One thing’s for sure, the fast-talking robot is never at a loss for things to say. He can even

answer questions from visitors.

“Ask me anything, “ brags Gizmo. “I went to college – Solid State University! Graduate from there and you’re in the chips for life. My only shortcoming is that I can’t read during the day because I went to night school.”

Gizmo jokes, sings, shakes hands, dances, hugs and flashes his lights.

He also has a highpowered digital sound system so you can hear him coming.

You’ll be able to get up close to this act so be sure to bring your cameras – this robot is a ham. “And lots of people tell me I look like Robot Redford,” Gizmo adds.

U.S. FMX National Championship Don’t miss the highflying excitement of motorcycle stunts with the U.S. FMX National Championship Series—the only national championship title that is decided by performing aerial stunts while launching motorcycles 70 feet plus through the air!

The nation’s top riders return to defend their titles as champions of extreme sports. See why Freestyle Motocross reigns king among fans of extreme sports with spectacular mid-air maneuvers and insane back flips! Post Photo/Paul Harris Monday, Sept. 5 at 5:30 in the main grandstand.

{ the great geauga county fair }

Horsin’ Around At the Geauga Fair

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Contributing writer Nancy Burroughs is the membership chair and “first lady” of the Geauga Horse and Pony Association. Her husband Scott is the organization’s president.

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bridle went flying off. You never know what will happen in this greatly anticipated event.

The children stabling at fair are very excited, but eventually exhaustion takes over. If you happen to see a pile of blankets on top of some hay bales, look closely and you just might see a tired horseback rider underneath taking a nap. And since school will already have started for most of the exhibitors, sometimes you’ll find a student sound asleep on top of his or her schoolbooks.

One year several small children were absolutely convinced that one of the horses was actually talking … Unbeknownst to them, a trainer had hidden herself under that horses’ water bucket in the corner of the stall. When some youngsters were admiring this horse, the trainer would speak as the animal moved its mouth. It appeared that the horse was talking. Eventually “the horse” convinced these kids that he’d like some peppermint treats. Their eyes were as big as saucers as they went to tell their parents.

Another interesting event is the costume class. In this event, the exhibitors dress up their horses. Sometimes horses turn into dinner tables or reindeer with real antlers. Once a “quarter horse” made an appearance–yes, a quarter horse covered in actual 25-cent pieces. The fair ring has seen horses bedecked in 1960s and ‘70s-style tie-dye, the three musketeers, basketball players, etc. The list goes on and on.

Keeping everyone safe and well mannered is an issue as well. Not only is it quite a trick to dress a horse, but also when the horses see each other in these get-ups, they don’t know what to make of it.

During the fun show, one of the favorite events is a version of musical chairs, but it is on horseback. Instead of chairs they use empty feedbags. Some of the horses are very leery of stepping on these foreign objects when the music stops. One year a girl went flying to her bag but knowing that her horse would be scared of stepping onto it if he saw it, she did a quick 180-degree turn and her horses back feet landed right in the middle of it. It worked and she won the class.

nd

When it comes to horsing around at The Great Geauga County Fair, all the junior fair participants are prizewinning experts.

And what you see in the show ring is even more impressive when you realize that the young people competing there have looked forward to such events most of their lifetimes. Most of the kids bringing horses to the fair are probably working as hard as they can to show off one of their best animal friends in the world.

Each appearance by a young horseman or horsewoman at the fair represents lots of trailer trips, breath-holding, overtime work to pay for riding lessons and sweat equity invested by local moms and dads and aunts and uncles. It all comes down to the fun of fair time, Geauga style.

The junior fair horse show begins at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 2, Senior Citizen, Veterans’ and Youth Day, when those 65 and older, all veterans and all youth 18 and under are admitted free.

The versatility class, generally run in the late afternoon, is a hoot to watch, and you never know what you’ll see, says Jamie Davis, Geauga Horse and Pony Association (GHPA) annual awards banquet chair. Only the most advanced riders who have been members of GHPA or 4-H for a number of years are allowed to show in this special event.

The versatility class includes four different horseback events, each of which is judged. These events are showmanship (either English or Western), English equitation, Western horsemanship and barrels. Riders only have five minutes between classes to not only change their clothes while remaining in the ring but also to change their horses’ saddles and bridles.

Their only assistance is from a one-perrider wheelbarrow-pushing helper who is allowed to enter the ring at the sound of the bell. It is a real race, with the helpers jockeying for a good position. Once the versatility event starts, items cannot be added to the wheelbarrow. If something is missing, too bad.

Funny things happen. One year one girl’s boyfriend accidentally put her saddle on the horse backwards. Another year, when the bell rang indicating that the time was up, the exhibitor didn’t have her riding boots on yet. She had to compete that way.

Lastly, one time a horse shook his head just right as the class started, and the entire

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Good Old Fashioned Food at the Fair

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When county fairs first came into existence, fair food, as we know it, didn’t exist! Think of it … no cotton candy, no greasy French fries, no deep-fried cheese on a stick. Instead there were home-cooked meals that usually ended with a piece of home-baked pie.

The ladies of the various churches took turns cooking and selling these delicious good-for-you meals. Times certainly have changed, haven’t they?

Well … at The Great Geauga County Fair, not so much. For over 50 years people have found their way to a small white building across from the milking parlor on the fairgrounds. Maybe they are drawn there by the delicious smells of breakfast and dinner cooking. Maybe it’s the memory of good meals in a friendly atmosphere.

Maybe it’s just being able to eat sitting at a table INSIDE a clean white building. (Of course, the reasonable prices don’t hurt either.)

But it is not church ladies who provide such good food this time. It is an organization that has been in existence since 1867, the Grange. Dedicated to championing issues and projects of special interest to rural folk, the Grange at the county level is called “Pomona.” That is why you will see a sign on that small white building that says “Pomona Food Booth.” The County Grange (AKA Pomona) has operated its restaurant at

this same location since 1960. The original building was small and white. In the 1970s it became necessary to replace this building with a larger one … larger, but also white.

Since then, an addition had been put on that almost doubles the seating capacity.

Let’s face it … it’s not fair food … it’s good old fashion down-home-cooking food.

Breakfast is served starting at 8 a.m.

Available are doughnuts, toast, scrambled eggs, French toast, pancakes, sausage patties, ham slices and the usual beverages that are available throughout the day and includes some of the best coffee to be found on the fairground.

Lunch and dinner start at 11 a.m. and features complete dinners (roast beef or meatloaf and, on Sunday and Monday, ham) as well as hot dogs, hamburgers, Philly cheeseburgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. The pie is no longer homemade as the need to bake 50 pies each day of the fair overwhelmed the ladies of the Grange some years ago. The pies are, however, Amish made and fresh daily. The Pomona Food Booth closes at 7 p.m.

Volunteer members of the three Geauga Community Granges that make up the Pomona Grange (i.e. Hamden, Huntsburg and Ledge) provide cooking, serving and cleaning and the profits are used for charitable works.

“We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink. “ Epicurus

{ the great geauga county fair }

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By Chief Bill Reed I wanted to share information about the contributions made by the Geauga County Fire Departments to The Geauga County Fair every year. A number of years ago, firefighters and fire chiefs associated with the Geauga County Firefighter’s Association and the Geauga County Fire Chief’s Association constructed the Fairgrounds Fire Station near the large horse track and main grandstand. They entered into an agreement to provide fire and EMS coverage throughout the fair with each department taking a turn at the coverage. This continues today as a supplement to coverage provided by the Burton Fire Department in whose jurisdiction the fairgrounds falls. Chief Mike Sestak and the Burton officers provide the policies and procedures, and inspect the buildings and concessions on the grounds for safety. Over the years coverage has been available for several fires and many medical incidents. A few years back an additional EMS station, primarily staffed by a Burton EMS unit, was added near the fairgrounds.

In addition to the fire and EMS coverage, the county fire departments participate in the firefighter’s water battles which provide a competition primarily for bragging rights, but also utilizes the skills used in firefighting such as connecting hose lines and nozzles, advancing hose lines, fire stream application and use of proper protective gear. These take place Thursday and Saturday, and the finals are on Sunday nights. Check your fair schedule for the times and come to the main grandstand to cheer for your hometown department.

Stop by the Fairgrounds Fire Station and visit with the crew on duty. Climb on the trucks, chat with the firefighters and ask any questions you may have. Middlefield will be on duty Sunday, Sept. 4 from 4 p.m. to midnight. Post Photo/Bill Reed

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You might never notice the couple most deserving of the title “all-time Great Geauga County Fair king and queen” at the 189th version of The Great Geauga County Fair starting Sept. 1.

The pair won’t be wearing crowns and sashes and won’t lead any parades. The native Geauga County couple will probably be sitting in a horse arena or in the antiques building, maybe holding hands and sharing a little insight into the draft horse proceedings. I suspect they’ll only speak up if other spectators seem open to friendly banter.

Audre George Blair, 96, and his wife Evelyn Mary, 92, are sharp, witty, humble and experienced Geauga County sweethearts who have attended the local fair regularly for nearly a century. Most likely, the gracious and charming Audre and Evelyn won’t press their company, opinions or observations on anybody, even though they served on the Geauga Fair Board for 65 years. Audre first attended the fair as a newborn.

If anybody is an expert on the Geauga fair draft horse department, which Audre expanded and oversaw for more than 50 years, he’s it. Permanent changes in the draft horse proceedings were Audre’s requirements to keep all stallions in box stalls and ties and all mares in tie stalls for safety’s sake.

When fair visitors this year enjoy more than 13,000 exhibits and 2,000 animals at 14373 North Cheshire St. in Burton between Sept. 1 and Labor Day, Audre and Evelyn will be there once again, “God willing, every day,” Audre says.

The unofficial patriarch and matriarch of a Geauga fair dynasty, Audre and Evelyn married Oct. 9, 1937 at the bride’s parents’ home in Fowlers Mill. The mister worked first as a county milk tester and then as a farmer in Geauga County until 1956. For Evelyn’s 21st birthday, they bought a 150acre farm on Pekin Road in Newbury. Audre became co-owner of Geauga Tractor in

Burton, retiring in 1977. His wife has been a homemaker.

Asked in an August 2011 interview how many children the couple had, Audre never missed a beat before responding, “She had six. I didn’t ‘have’ any of them.”

The Blair family includes children George of Middlefield, Sally Wilhjelm of Jonesboro, Tenn., Gerry of Newbury, Kaye Ware of Canton, Jeanne Pugh of East Cleveland, and Bob of Newbury; 21 grandchildren; more than 25 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. All three of Audre and Evelyn’s daughters served as queens at the county fair, and so did one of their daughters-in-law.

Held in Burton, The Great Geauga County Fair is the oldest continuous county fair in Ohio, having first been held Oct. 23, 1823 in Chardon. The original one-day event has grown steadily and is now visited by thousands and thousands of people over the five-day holiday weekend. Recent fairs have drawn crowds of nearly 250,000 people.

The Blairs take great pride and pleasure in noting that nearly all improvements to the Burton fairgrounds through the years have resulted from neighbors helping neighbors.

Event organizers meant to showcase the development of agricultural products and new farm labor-saving devices while celebrating economic independence, hard work, perseverance, fellowship, ingenuity and old-fashioned fun.

This traditional spirit of countywide cooperation produced the Bicentennial Bell House, for example, and a new 4-H building.

Audre recalls that local dairymen all agreed to each donate a calf to the 4-H building fund. As each calf was auctioned, the proceeds went to the 4-H building fund.

Through 74 years of marriage, the fair has been part of Audre’s and Evelyn’s lives, and Audre and Evelyn remain an integral part of the fair. See if you can find the boulder inscribed with their names on the fairgrounds.

Did You Know?

The Great Geauga County Fair has operated without interruption from its beginning.

Throughout the Civil War, the Spanish American War, World Wars I and II, the Great Depression, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War and today’s War on Terror the fair has continued, a symbol of America’s bounty, ideals and joy ... exactly as its pioneer founders meant it to be.

Although talent contests began appearing very early in fair history, political speeches appeared even earlier! Judge Peter Hitchcock, the president of the Geauga County Agricultural Society gave a speech that was featured at the first Geauga County Fair in1823.

Judge Hitchcock went on to become the Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court.

Horse racing and horse shoe pitching are the oldest contests to be found at American fairs other than the Best Animal or Vegetable and Best Feminine Arts category. Horse racing predates fairs in America by over 100 years.

{ the great geauga county fair }

Sweat First, Enjoy Fair Later

By Nancy Hrivnak There’s a way to enjoy some fair food without letting those extra calories haunt both your conscience and your physique.

Local athlete, veteran Great Geauga County Fair participant and Race-at-theFair volunteer Judy Rogers of Huntsburg Township is happy to help you with the calorie-burning part.

Most everyone seems to figure out the fair food part on his or her own.

Judy has organized the race at the fair with the sponsorship of the Geauga Family YMCA and other backers in recent years after another community nonprofit passed her the torch.

There will be sweat and hills and running or walking involved, but “When you finish the five-mile run at the grandstand at The Great Geauga County Fair, you’ll know you’ve accomplished something,” Judy says.

Join the early-morning runners and walkers Sunday, Sept. 4 for the 2011 Race at the Fair to benefit Geauga Family YMCA’s Strong Kids Campaign. There is a 5-mile run that ends at the grandstand, a 1-mile walk through the fair grounds and a Free Kids’ Fun Run around the track. Pre-register at Geauga YMCA by Aug. 29 for a fee of $17

or register the day of the race at Kent State Geauga campus in Burton for a fee of $20.

No registration is required for the Kids’ Fun Run. Paid registration includes free admission to the fair with wristband.

Proceeds benefit the Geauga Family YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. “Run for kids. Raise money so kids, families, seniors and individuals facing financial hardship in our area can have a safe place to go and practice good healthy habits. Kids can learn to swim, go to summer camp and learn sportsmanship skills,” Judy says. “We could use a little more community support in helping others in our own community.”

Businesses can contact Judy to get their names printed on the back of next year’s race shirts.

For more information contact Geauga Family YMCA, 12460 Bass Lake Road in Chardon at 440-285-7543 or e-mail apitones@clevelandymca.org or jrogers@ clevelandymca.org.

At 7 a.m., onsite registration begins at Kent State Geauga next to the fairgrounds.

The 5-mile run starts at 8:30 a.m. the 1-mile walk follows at 8:45 a.m. Awards and prize distribution concludes the festivities.

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Preview Snowbelted at The Great Geauga County Fair Amidst the endless sights and sounds of The Great Geauga County Fair, don’t forget to “scout out” Geauga Park District and learn some ways you can enjoy similar outdoor activities all year round.

Since 1996, the park district’s open wood building has given fairgoers a taste of what their local parks have to offer. This year’s interactive displays showcase the large Snowbelted Winter’s a Blast! exhibit opening in November at The West Woods Nature Center: Learn which feeders and seeds attract which birds via a special wildlife feeding display, courtesy of For the Birds, Wildlife and More in Chardon.

Solve a self-led scavenger hunt for the chance to win a featured Hopper Feeder.

Touch pelts, identify prints and learn fun facts about your local winter-friendly wildlife.

Fiddle with a hands-on matching board to answer a 12-question history quiz celebrating Geauga Park District’s 50th anniversary.

As in years past, observe the immensely popular see-through butterfly enclosure full of Monarch chrysalises and caterpillars. Naturalists will publicly tag and release hatched Monarchs each day of the fair – be there with your friends and family to watch!

Friendly staff members and volunteers will always be available to answer questions about park exploration, programs and policy. Those interested in getting out to the parks themselves can also find maps and “Scout Out Your Parks” trackers in the building.

“Scout Out Your Parks is a really fun family activity,” said Special Events Coordinator Teresa Runion. “Even working here, this has been a really good incentive for me to bring my family out and visit some of the parks I don’t normally get out to.”

Geauga Park District is at The Great Geauga County Fair Thursday, Sept. 1 through Monday, Sept. 5 from10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Natural Resources Area, Geauga County Fairgrounds, 14373 North Cheshire St., Burton.

Call 440-286-9516 with questions. Geauga Park District is online at www. geaugaparkdistrict.org, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

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Geauga County 4-H Builds Character

By Sarah Anderson

Community involvement is very important for bringing people together. For the last 11 years of my life I have been actively involved in Geauga County 4-H and to say that it has changed my life for the better is a huge understatement. Community is one of the most important aspects of character one could have and 4-H has provided the perfect means of achieving it. Although embracing technology and the growing culture is certainly not a bad thing, sitting in front of the TV or social networking sites is just not the same as spending time out doors or being involved in community activities. Without 4-H, I never would have met anyone outside of my small high school, let alone my home town, and I certainly would have no motivation to walk away from the computer for a few hours or spend as much time outdoors.

Geauga 4-H really does reach out to all different personality types; whether you have a love for animals, sewing, cooking, archery or have a green thumb, there really is a place for anyone to belong. I have seen countless kids, including myself, step out of their comfort zone and excel through what 4-H has to offer. Even more kids than that have gone from being cranky teens who didn’t want to take off their headphones for a meeting to kids who are now excelling in and out of 4-H as leaders. 4-H has allowed me to meet kids from all over the state of Ohio - kids I talk to every week who I never would have met otherwise.

Through 4-H I have learned to be a leader, a listener, a hard worker and a team player. It taught me the discipline and responsibility one needs to get through life in the real world.

The life skills and knowledge I have gained through 4-H is invaluable and has shaped me into who I am today. 4-H creates such an amazing sense of community and friendship where it might not be found otherwise, and although this will be my last year, I know the lessons will stick with me for a lifetime. 4-H provides such an important character building opportunity that kids everywhere should embrace and enjoy. It can change your life. It has certainly changed mine. Post Photo/Sarah Anderson

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Aug. 24, 2011

The Pygmy Connection 4-H Club

By Jenni and Carol Tuttle Our club is going strong this year. We have 31 members, and will have over 40 goats at The Great Geauga County Fair. Our club members range in age from Cloverbud level (under 8 years old) up through high school seniors, and come from all over Geauga County.

Meetings are held at Patterson Center at the fairgrounds. Every summer we have a club family campout weekend so the members and their families get a chance to become good friends before the fair.

During the year, our members work on their goat projects, caring for their animals and learning about pygmy goats. Some members also take on other animal projects, such as poultry, or other types of projects such as archery. They can also be involved in leadership roles such as Junior Fair Board or Junior Leaders service club.

Community service is important to our club, and we have participated in the Clean-up Day at Punderson State Park and this year’s Rubber Duck Race. We also were a part of Tractor Supply Pet Weekend in both Middlefield and Chardon, and sold candy bars to help support the 4-H program through the Advisory Committee.

Come visit our club at the psygmy goat barn at The Great Geauga County Fair, and watch our show at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 1. If you are interested in learning more about joining our club or 4-H, stop by and talk to a member or advisor at the fair, or call the 4-H office at 440-834-4656. Post Photo/Carol Tuttle

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By Abby Lane The summer is drawing to an end and the fair is quickly approaching, which means that the members of the Geauga Caprine Kids 4-H Club are hard at work getting themselves and their animals prepared for the shows. The Geauga Caprine Kids focus mainly on goats and chickens, but many of the members are also involved in swine, small animal, and miscellaneous projects.

The club members do everything they can to help each other, from giving advice to holding work meetings, where the members can bring their animals and learn the proper way to handle and show them.

The advisors are also willing to come out to a members farm to help them if they ask for their assistance.

What many people don’t realize is the amount of time and effort that 4-H members put into their projects, and that their work begins long before the fair. The members who are involved in market animals get their projects as babies which can be weeks, like the market chickens which are purchased six weeks before hand, to months, like with the beef cattle which are purchased in December for the next year, before the

fair. And then they raise them carefully, monitoring the animals feed, water, growth and any medication the animal might need so it is within the weight limit and safe to be auctioned off when the time comes.

The week before fair is one of the busiest times for the 4-H members. The weekend before is spent getting the barns at the fairgrounds set up and decorated, and then it’s back home to choose which animals should be shown (if they have not already done so), wash their animals so they look their best (yes even the chickens), get all their gear together, and have their animals down at the fairgrounds in their pens between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday before fair. Then they must make sure the pens are full of bedding, and that the animals have plenty of food and water for the night. After that its time to either go home or to the camp ground to get plenty of sleep since the fair starts bright and early Thursday morning. The 4-H members have put a lot of time and effort into their projects this year and are looking forward to seeing you at The Great Geauga County Fair. Post Photo/Abby Lane

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Flockmasters

Flockmasters 4-H Club members raise sheep and poultry projects; we also participate in other projects such as sewing and swine. A club with over 30 members from around the county, we meet once a month at the Munson Town Hall. Throughout the year we do many things. In February we visited the Corrine Dolan Alzheimer Center; making Valentine’s Cards, singing songs, and eating cookies with the residents to cheer them up. The first week of March we put up a window display for National 4-H Week. In April we sold candy bars to raise money for Geauga County 4-H. Our July meeting was a picnic.

Find us at The Great Geauga County Fair. The sheep show is Thursday, Sept. 1 at 9 a.m., and we will be working the Junior Leaders Milkshake Booth from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. that day.

Stop by for a cool treat. Thursday evening at 7 p.m. is Junior Fair King and Queen Coronation.

Friday at noon is the poultry show. Saturday afternoon is the livestock auction. Small animals are sold starting at 4 p.m. in the tent. Large animals start at 6 p.m. in the arena. On Monday, Sept. 5, we will be in the junior fair building for Fair Fest. Stop by to make a paper bag scrapbook.

Flockmasters 4-H club is a welcoming and dynamic group of people with excellent leaders and advisors. We implement the core values of 4-H and are dedicated to promoting education, leadership, responsibility, and respect. Our club encourages the advancement of our members and all their undertakings. Flockmasters participates in community service projects and educational expeditions beyond the minimum required, instilling a respect for giving back to the community and a thirst for lifelong learning in our members.

Please visit our website, www.flockmasters4h.org, to stay informed about our club’s activities.

Have a great time at the fair!

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The Swingin’ Hams

The Swingin’ Hams 4-H Club work with their animals on a daily basis to get them ready for showmanship and market shows, but lately they have been extra busy working with their 4-H Swine projects to show at The Great Geauga County Fair on Labor Day weekend.

The club consists of five advisors, 23 members and six cloverbuds. All members participate in Skillathon, which reflects the knowledge they have gained from the club throughout the year. Members are quizzed on their projects to earn a ribbon grade. They also had a showmanship clinic in early July to learn new techniques and practice their skills.

This group is very involved with community service projects. They volunteered at the Punderson Earth Day clean up this year to prepare the park for the upcoming summer activities, and all the members who participated were given a pass to the swimming pool at the lodge. The club has helped, for many years, with the annual 4-H Food-A-Thon where 4-H members collect food donations to be given to the Geauga County Hunger Task Force drive. But the Swingin’ Hams’ main community service project for over 20 years has been to raise a hog for the Geauga County Job & Family Services to be given to the elderly and needy people of Geauga County.

The club has decided to raise funds to install new signs for the swine pens that will be used at the fair for many years to come. Swingin’ Hams 4-H Club will have an informational booth set-up in the junior fair building at the fair for everyone to learn about swine and 4-H programs.

Come visit the swine barn next to the main show arena to view our 4-H projects.

Members projects will be auctioned off on Saturday, Sept. 3 so come and purchase a market hog to share or for your freezer. Post Photo/Nita Judd

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Aug. 24, 2011

The 4-H Geauga County Coyotes Shooting Sports Club at the Community Rib Burn-Off.

Coyotes Needed The 4-H Geauga County Coyotes Shooting Sports Club and the Geauga Bowmen are looking for youth from our community to come to the 2011 Great Geauga County Fair. Join us for three days of free archery instruction, demonstrations and shooting experience in the shooting barn, located at the north end of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources area.

As part of the national 4-H Shooting Sports program, the County Coyotes support youth development in the safe and proper use of firearms and archery equipment, and compliment the efforts of other hunter education programs. For seven years our club has been part of a nationwide trend of ever-increasing interest in the shooting sports program.

In many counties it is the largest 4-H club for enrollment.

Geauga Bowmen, located in Chesterland, is the oldest continuous hunting club in the county. With shoots held throughout the year, it offers the most beautiful and low cost experience in this part of Ohio.

For more information go to www.groups.yahoo.com/group/GeaugaCountyCoyotes or www.geaugabowmen.com.

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4-H Life with Granny’s Kids

By David D. Smith

Two years ago, 4-H was a world my family basically knew nothing about. In the past, we attended The Geauga County Fair, and my mother dragged me, my sister and my younger brother up and down (and then up and down several more times) the barn aisles to look at all the animals. Specifically, it was always the goat barn where we ended up spending most of our time. When we moved out to Auburn Township, my mother decided to actually purchase some goats of our own even though we knew nothing about goats, livestock or, as I already said, about the 4-H. We joined 4-H in 2010 with two tiny Nigerian Dwarf goat kids and two Boer meat goats. My Boer kids had been with us exactly two days when my mother got a strange phone call at 10:30 one night. A neighbor that lives on a road north of us had gotten our name from the farm on the corner where we had recently purchased hay and straw.

“I think your goats are on my back deck”, the caller said.

“WHAT!!” yelled my mother.

“Two little brown and white guys?”

Yep, that was them. Somehow, they had managed to traipse at least a mile through woods, wetlands and yards patrolled by dogs, cross a busy road and arrive at a house where they promptly decided to set up camp. That night I learned my first important lesson–never leave the gate open.

Needless to say, as we stumbled our way through the ins and outs of the 4-H experience, a whole new world began to open up to us. We attended meetings. We learned about our animals. We did various community service projects, and best of all, we participated in the Junior Fair at The Great Geauga County Fair.

Members of 4-H have one or more projects that they raise or complete in order to show them at The Geauga County Fair. This year my club, Granny’s Kids, are showing Nigerian Dwarf dairy goats,

participating in the Pack Goat competition, and raising market turkeys to be judged and then auctioned off at the livestock auction.

To accomplish this goal, we meet at least monthly as a club and we have 4-H project books that help us to learn how to properly raise and care for the animals. Members are responsible for knowing important aspects of their projects (such as proper housing, bedding, medical care, and anatomy) that will enable them to raise and market a healthy animal that will be desirable to the consumer.

Members of a 4-H club also try to better the community around them. For example, our 4-H club cleans yards in the spring for seniors through the Department on Aging. We shop for a sponsored family at Christmas and participate in the Hare Raiser’s Food Drive. We also sell goat milk fudge at The Great Geauga County Fair to raise funds for club service projects and club project books. Members are also active in Junior Leadership club, Junior Fair Board, 4-H Camp and other youth organizations What sounds like extensive work actually provides invaluable experiences, memories, and great opportunities, which forever impact not only the individual, but also his community. Along with the memorable experience, 4-H is simply a load of fun. Our goats, just like us, each have unique personalities. They are intelligent, loving, and gentle creatures that have, quite honestly, become part of our family. Their longing for human companionship along with usefulness as livestock make goats a rather unique farm animal.

My experience in 4-H has been a highlight of my life, and every year it gets better and better as we learn more and more. We take on new challenges, seek new results, and add new members to our herd. 4-H is a huge part of my life that teaches me the hard to come-by values of companionship, selflessness, and work ethic along with knowledge in a rewarding hobby and lifestyle. Post Photo/David Smith

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Aug. 24, 2011 { Middlefield Post }

19

{ the great geauga county fair }

By Lisa Briggs

Sew Sew Sweet 4-H Club

It has been an exciting year for the Sew Sew Sweet 4-H Club. I took the helm of advisor when Penny Timmons retired. The club meets monthly from February until school starts, and then meets weekly to diligently work on their sewing projects; everything from outfits that can be worn to school, to costumes, to sewing for others.

The club is very happy to announce that all the members completed their projects and received blue ribbons at the judging. Also, a big congratulations to Ashliegh Jevnikar and Amanda Vinecourt for having their fashion projects chosen to participate at the State

Fair Level. Along with sewing projects, the club has begun to scrapbook. Every girl who wished to scrapbook followed the project book to complete their piece, and Sydney Spitzler participated at the State Fair level in the scrapbooking category.

Along with projects, the club also enjoys helping others with community service projects, and they recently had a lot of fun serving ice cream at the Claridon Bicentennial festivities.

This fall, they will also be doing a community service sewing project. If you are interested in learning more about 4-H, contact the Geauga County Extension Office at 440-834-4656. Post Photo/Lisa K Briggs

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Aug. 24, 2011

The Russell Rabbit Raisers are a 4-H group that has been around since 1985 promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and community involvement.

The club spends most of its time preparing for The Geauga County Fair. The Russell Rabbit Raisers study and help each other learn about their pet rabbits, how to care for them, and how to show them in Junior Fair. The club also enjoys helping out the community and makes an effort to perform service to our community every year.

On Monday June 6, the local 4-H group Russell Rabbit Raisers journeyed to Bainbridge to volunteer at the Chagrin Falls Park Community Center. The group helped fill a library at the center with a plethora of books to be used by the children living in Chagrin Falls Park. All of the group members

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put in maximum effort the entire afternoon, and completely organized the entire library.

Chagrin Falls Park offers a tutoring and summer reading program where children residing in the area can come to get help with schoolwork, get ahead in school, or just find a book to read. Everyone at the community center was very friendly and they were thrilled that the 4-H group came to help.

In the 4-H pledge there is a line that states, “I pledge my hands to larger service.” The Russell Rabbit Raisers consistently exemplify this statement by volunteering in their community. The Russell Rabbit Raisers thoroughly enjoyed their time volunteering at Chagrin Falls Park and plan to continue helping out the community as much and as often as they can. Post Photo/Liz Negrelli

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{ the great geauga county fair }

Alpacas and Alpaca Products at the Fair

Neck and leg fiber, referred to as “seconds” Geauga winters may be harsh, but one and “thirds,” is not as soft as prime fleece, way to help take the sting out of the icy wind and is harvested for use in accessories, rugs is to stay warm in alpaca socks, sweaters, and heavy-duty totes. hats, mittens and blankets. Geauga County There are two types of alpacas: has dozens of alpaca farms raising these huacaya and suri. Huacayas have fluffy, fleecy animals which are native to South crimpy fleece while suri fiber hangs in America. Although alpacas originate from spiral-like dreadlocks. Both varieties have the Andes Mountains in Peru, Chili and similar properties regarding softness Bolivia, they were imported into the United and warmth, and require the same States in the mid-1980s and have been food and environment. Farmers need thriving in Ohio ever since. Alpacas are to administer monthly worm shots and all about warmth. Their silky, soft fleece occasional oral is comparable treatments. to cashmere.

Get a firstAnd, their hand look at these insulating fiber is extraordinary incredibly warm, animals on display yet breathable. across from the Because alpacas horse arena do not secrete located on the lanolin, the oily southeast corner substance in of the fairgrounds. sheep’s fleece, Several farms allergic reactions are bringing are virtually alpacas to share nonexistent. with the public.

Along with Additionally, the raising alpacas, Kira Weber with Snickers Pronkin’ ‘Pacas, a many local farmers Geauga County shear, breed and 4-H club, are dedicated to alpaca husbandry board animals as well as use their fleeces and fleece crafting, and will be conducting for spinning into yarn and for felting and alpaca demonstrations throughout the weaving projects. A few domestic fiber coweekend. Watch the alpaca showmanship ops are buying fiber from individual farms competition Thursday, Sept. 1 at 3 p.m. in and turning prime fleece into everything the auction tent. from luxury sweaters and blankets to socks.

When it comes to alpaca apparel, High-tech performance manufacturers for garments made with huacaya and suri fiber active and extreme-weather enthusiasts are considered luxury items and include are increasingly making use of alpaca fiber exquisite coats, jackets and sweaters that for its wicking properties and light weight. can cost hundreds of dollars. Alpaca socks range from about $10 to $30 depending on NO INTEREST IF PAID IN FULL IN the style.

“Socks and scarves are probably the on total snow thrower purchases over 6 MONTHS $299 when you use a qualifying Sears card most popular thing we carry,” says Sirius Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within 6 months or if you make a late payment.

Alpacas’ owner JR Weber, “next to the actual alpacas, of course. People love to visit the single-hand farm just to learn about where natural operation eliminates fabrics and textiles come from and what starts and stops goes into raising an animal.”

After JR bought a few pairs of alpaca socks at a show in 2005, he realized first hand the comfort and quality that alpaca fiber provides. He gave the socks away as gifts, and was everyone’s favorite Santa that year. “I couldn’t believe how light, soft and warm they were. It had always sounded a little hyped to me, but all the talk was right.

Alpaca fiber performs very well in the cold.”

Sirius Alpacas will be carrying socks, SAVE scarves, sweaters, and hats from both Peru $160 and the United States at The Great Geauga County Fair, along with blended textile bags, pouches and accessories from Bolivia. $ 99 They’ll be in the vendor space below the small grandstand and show ring across Craftsman 179cc dual stage, 24-inch snow thrower. from the petting zoo.

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Sirius Alpacas was established in 2004 in Chardon, and has been breeding, boarding and selling mainly Peruvian huacaya alpacas.

In addition Sirius Alpacas runs an online business www.siriusalpacas.com that sells both domestic and South American fair-trade alpaca and Andean products. For information, contact JR Weber at jr@siriusalpacas.com or 440-479-1000.

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Aug. 24, 2011 { Middlefield Post }

21

{ the great geauga county fair } Natural Resources - a Quiet Fairgrounds Refuge

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Labor Day is not the only celebration in Geauga County that falls in early September.

The Great Geauga County Fair also takes place on Labor Day weekend, and what an exciting time we all have at the fair – hundreds of sights, sounds and smells. Oh, yes, those smells!

One stop not to miss at the fair is Natural Resources, a literal oasis located around the small lake at the southeast end of the grounds. It’s a quiet relaxing place to take a break from the noise of the fairway and the smells of cattle, the fluffy rabbits, pugnosed alpacas and haughty looking lamas.

Another reason I like Natural Resources is that I am a city girl limited to thinking electricity comes out of the socket and water out of the tap. Here in the country I have a chance to learn about nature and its resources.

The Natural Resources area,inaugurated in 1993, has a number of fascinating programs for those of all ages. Check your programs or go to www.geaugafair.com beforehand to find the times for these events, which take place almost every day of the fair: Beaver - Nature’s Engineer Mysterious Coyote Monarchs on the Move Live Birds of Prey and Friends Raccoon/Hound Water Races Critters of our Streams and Wetlands Retrievers: Dogs that Make a Splash Youth Fishing Archery Demonstrations and Trick Archery Shooting

Tim Frank Septic Celebrates 45 Years of Service The Tim Frank Septic Tank Cleaning Co. is proudly celebrating 45 years in business. Most people in this area know the name, but just in case you don’t, the company is a full service family owned onsite septic business providing residential

Booth at r u O t i s i V e m Co Geauga County Fair e Theat Gr

TIM FRANK

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Aug. 24, 2011

This area is run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which has an office for Soil and Water Conservation on the fairgrounds at the north entrance. Around the lake you will see 16 well-kept wooden buildings and sheds. Each one houses displays and sometimes holds classes. For example, the Division of Wildlife instructs children how to fish - from baiting, to casting, to freeze-wrapping their fish to take home. You can watch the children learning right there at the lake and pick up some tips yourself.

There will be representatives from the Geauga, Ohio and Metro park services to teach you about the types of flora to plant to attract butterflies or bluebirds, and show you how different birdhouses must be built to get specific birds to nest there.

Other organizations will be on hand to offer helpful hints on hunting turkeys, ducks, deer, and raccoons. There’s a place for coon dogs, a trapper’s cabin, a fishing area and a beautiful sugarhouse. If you didn’t get to see how maple sugar is boiled in the spring, this building serves as a demonstration sugarhouse. It’s framed in 21 mixed species of local hard and soft woods and is a work of art in itself. Other buildings are occupied by the park services (Ohio, Metro and Geauga) and the Boy Scouts are also represented.

Take your lunch and sit on a bench around the lake. You’re sure to meet interesting people and take away some fascinating tips for bettering your environment at the Natural Resources area of the Geauga County Fairgrounds.

SepTIc TANK cleANINg co.

www.timfrankseptic.com

and commercial services in Geauga and surrounding counties.

In the early years not only did Tim and Tom Frank run the septic business but they also had amusement rides, games and food which they would set up at local festivals and fairs. They sold the last of the amusement equipment in the early 2000s to concentrate fully on the septic business.

Still, the amusement business will always have a special place in their hearts. For the past eight years, instead of setting up games or food stands at The Great Geauga County Fair, they spend the week there in the Tim Frank Septic Tank Cleaning Co. information tent. The fair is a great opportunity for them to meet and visit with their current customers, make new customers, answer general questions and just educate the public about septic systems.

Tim Frank Septic provides everything from septic and aeration tank pumping, sewer line cleaning, aerator or pump replacement, system management, bacteria products and even chlorine and dechlorination tablets for aeration systems.

Be sure to stop and visit with them at the north end of the fairgrounds across from the horse shoe pits.

If you are looking for more information and would like to reach them before or after the fair, call 440-636-5111 or visit www. timfrankseptic.com, or www.facebook. com/TimFrankSeptic.

{ the great geauga county fair }

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“Beautiful Baby”…

Meet Baby, an adorable and sweet 4-year-old, Siamese mix cat. Baby, absolutely adores people, but would be happiest as the only pet.

Unfortunately, she is terrified of other animals since in her previous home there we’re a couple of cats that used to pick on her.

Baby is very outgoing and not the slightest bit shy.

She makes a cute “squeak” sound when you’re petting her. She is sweet and petite, and will make someone very happy. Baby is spayed, vaccinated, and has tested negative for leukemia/FIV. To meet Baby, please contact Kathy Deptola Animal Rescue 440-474-9721 or deptola.kathy@gmail.com.

Polar and Rego Need Loving Homes

{ SERVICES DIRECTORY } { CATERING }

{ AUTOMOTIVE }

Ken’s Auto Body, Inc.

It’s Clam Bake Time!

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– Host your own bake or let us cater it for you –

Where Customers Send Their Friends

for Casual Custom Catering - from an intimate dinner for 2 to a backyard bash for 400

ken zwolinski

Call for a free consultation

Serving Northeast Ohio Since 1988

440-632-1444

Greg Tarr, Proprietor Huntsburg, Ohio

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{ CUSTOM BUILDERS }

{ COAL - ANTHRACITE } Ohio’s Largest Anthracite Dealer

Bosler Bros. supply 16011 Madison Rd., (St. Rt. 528) Middlefield • 440-632-0088 Monday-Friday 8-5; Saturday 8-Noon

Anthracite is Clean Coal Technology { HOME HEALTH CARE }

q Room additions ~In-law suites ~Great rooms q Pole barns q Garages q q q q

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Quality work 800-331-3325 References 5 year Warranty on labor Special low rate financing available

Celebrating our 25th Anniversary

{ HOME MAINTENANCE }

Peace of mind...from our family to yours!

Polar is a young husky.

He is all white with a blue eye and a brown eye. He needs a home.

Rego is a young cattle dog/ bulldog mix.

He is mostly white. When he sees people he does a full body wag. Such a happy dog! He needs a home.

These dogs are available at the Geauga County Dog Warden, 12513 Merritt Road., Chardon 44024, 440-2868135.

FirstLight HomeCare offers: Complete companion and personal care services for seniors, new mothers, those recovering from surgery, or anyone who just needs a little assistance • Superior screening of our caregivers • Innovative technology and services for client safety • Clientcaregiver matching • 24/7 care monitoring

Serving Geauga, Lake and Eastern Cuyahoga Counties Chardon 440-286-1342 FIRSTLIGHTHOMECARE.COM

{ RECYCLING }

{ LAWN MAINTENANCE }

It’s a Jungle Out There…

…but we can fix that!

Therapy Dog Class Offered by Rescue Village Geauga Humane Society’s Rescue Village is hosting a therapy dog training class beginning Sunday, Oct. 16 for those who would like their canine companion to work as a therapy dog Screening will take place on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 9:30 a.m. To make an appointment for screening, call Barbara Collins at 440-285-4679.

The six session, Sunday morning class will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Rescue Village, 15463 Chillicothe Road, Russell Township. The cost of the TDI class is $125 and registration is required prior to class date. Call Barb Collins at 440-285-4679 to register. At the completion of the class, dogs who are at least one year old or older, will be tested to receive therapy dog certification.Geauga Humane Society’s goal in hosting the class is to recruit graduates as Rescue Village volunteer ambassadors. Ambassador dogs and their handlers represent Rescue Village at community events, work with TLC Kids Camp participants and visit classrooms.

Rescue Village ambassadors are invaluable in helping Geauga Humane Society promote its mission.

Contact Geauga Humane Society’s Rescue Village, Mary Carney 440-338-4819 Extension 20, 15463 Chillicothe Road, Russell Township, e-mail education@geaugahumane.org

• Aquatic Gardens • Aquatic Weed and Algae Control • Lake and Landscape Renovations • Brush Clearing

Call Dirk Hill (440) 257-4349

GRASS HOPPERS LAWN and LANDSCAPE SERVICE

Buyer of All Types of Metal Industrial and Commercial Container Service 440-632-3455 Fax: 440-632-0155

{ TREE SERVICE }

{ TIMBER }

wanted LOGS

Buying standing timber and saw logs.

Removal by horse or machine.

Stop in or call Wayne

440-272-5424

7377 Wiswell Rd. • Windsor, OH 44099

13862 Old State Rd. Middlefield, OH 44062

• Removals • Trimming • Pruning

Specializing in large hazardous removals!

Free Estimates – Insured

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Amish owned and operated.

ADVERTISE your company here!

Call Today to Reserve Your Space at 440-632-0782 Deadline for our Sept. 14 issue is Friday, Sept. 2.

Aug. 24, 2011 { Middlefield Post }

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4867 Mahoning Ave • Warren, OH 44483

(330) 847-7644

www.yamahaofwarren.com