An All-American Experience
It’s no secret, summertime is here once again. The kids are out of school, the yard needs cut and it’s hotter than a recently used frying pan before noon most days. But if those simple facts of life weren’t enough to let you know it’s summertime in America, I can’t think of anything that would do it better than going to the county fair.
All around our community, people are getting ready and getting excited for their local fair. And why shouldn’t they be excited? Fairs are a great time for a community to come together and celebrate what makes it special. Families, friends and neighbors all gather around to share an afternoon or an evening together under a clear summer sky. Bands play country music, while the smell of fresh funnel cakes wafts through the air. An endless supply of kettle corn pops to life, as the glittering lights of amusement park rides dazzle on into the night. What’s not to love?
While fairs are plenty of fun, they also provide a chance to celebrate the hard work going on in our rural communities. County fairs are a great opportunity to see the yeoman’s work the next generation of farmers are already putting in to get food to our tables. The cattle, hog and poultry shows are more than just ribbon-winning cows, pigs and chickens. These events are proof that the future of Missouri’s most important industry is in the hands of capable young people.
Yes, county fairs are quite special for so many in rural Missouri. I’m sure many of us have fond memories of fairs. County fairs are an experience like no other. They are quintessentially an All-American experience. Fairs and the memories we have of them paint a picture of the heart of America – family, friends and good times.
I hope you take some time to enjoy some of the upcoming county fairs happening throughout the 6th Senatorial District this summer, including:
- Cole County Fair in Jefferson City: July 29 – Aug. 3;
- Gasconade County Fair in Owensville: July 24 -27;
- Maries County Fair in Vienna: Aug. 28 – 31;
- Miller County Fair in Eldon: July 23 – 27; and
- Moniteau County Fair in California: Aug. 4 – 10.
I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy some of the best that mid-Missouri has to offer, because after all, there really is nothing quite like a county fair. And if you see me around at the fair, please stop and say hello. I always enjoy talking to my constituents, wherever they may be.
Please feel free to contact my office at (573) 751-2076. For information about my committee assignments or sponsored legislation, please visit my official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Bernskoetter.