County fair to offer something for everyone
Brave souls dare to climb aboard the Inferno, one of the many amusement rides offered at the Greene County Fair. (Photo by Brett Spitznogle)
John Mayle (left) and his two sons, Chase and Damian, all of Waynesburg, enjoy one of the many games that were offered at the Greene County Fair. (Photo by Brett Spitznogle)
If one thing can be said about the Greene County Fair, it is consistent. That is a tribute to the dedication of the fair board members and especially to Debbie Stephenson, secretary-treasurer of the fair board, who for the past 21 years has worked tirelessly to keep the fair running smoothly, rain or shine, at the Greene County Fairgrounds.
The theme for the 2018 edition of the Greene County Fair, which will be held Aug. 5-11, is 鈥淔arms, Families, Fairs, Fun!,鈥� an alliterative expression emphasizing the core of this week-long event.
Agriculture and farming will once again be spotlighted with a number of scheduled events throughout the week. The agricultural aspect kicks off with home and garden judging at 9 a.m. Aug. 6, followed that same day with the goat show. The theme continues Aug. 7 with the 4-H rabbit show, the 4-H and open dairy and cattle show and the 4-H market steer show.
On Aug. 8 there will be the 4-H and open beef cattle show and the 4-H market lamb show, wrapping up Aug. 9 with the 4-H and open sheep show and the 4-H livestock sale.
鈥淥f course agriculture is central to our fair,鈥� Stephenson said. 鈥淲ithout it, what would you have?鈥�
Stephenson said, somewhat sheepishly, that if agriculture and farming are not high on your list of county fair experiences there are numerous other draws.
鈥淒ue to its popularity, we have added a second night of the demolition derby,鈥� she said.
Croushore鈥檚 championship demolition derby is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8 and Friday, Aug. 10.
When it comes to musical performances, who better to take the stage than the Chris Higbee Band.
Higbee, who founded the PovertyNeck Hillbillies in 2000 (the group disbanded seven years later), will perform at the fairgrounds at 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 9. Higbee is not only a singer and songwriter but also an expert fiddle-player. His engaging presence and honed fiddling skills are sure to impress every member of the audience.
Higbee keeps busy playing more than 150 shows per year. Fully equipped with production and a tour bus, he delivers a killer show and makes new fans wherever he plays. With his presence and charisma on stage, he makes a personal impact on his fans, which they return faithfully.
Stephenson said the Greene County Fair provides a good wholesome atmosphere for the entire family.
鈥淚t is a very protective environment, especially for kids,鈥� she said. 鈥淔or many farming families, this week is their vacation.鈥�
Stephenson also noted the admission price to the fair each day is $8 (parking is free) and everyone coming through the gate must have at ticket. The fair board has remained committed to keeping the admission price low so families can come out and support this community event.
鈥淭he fair gives those who attend the very best of what we have to offer, all for a reasonable price,鈥� Stephenson said.
鈥淲e try to offer something for everyone,鈥� Stephenson said. 鈥淎nd I think our schedule fulfills that.鈥�