Legislative Column for August 11, 2017
For the 115th year, the Missouri State Fair is welcoming citizens from across the state to enjoy 10 days full of fun, food and, of course, agriculture. With different events and activities scheduled each day, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
From now until Aug. 20, the state fairgrounds in Sedalia will be filled with people taking in musical acts, rodeos, rides, booths, crafts and agriculture exhibits. The fair also provides a great opportunity for youth involved in 4H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs to showcase their hard work and learn from other competitors.
The opportunity to spend several days, or even just a day, at the fair talking with like-minded people about farming practices and agricultural projects is nothing but beneficial. On Aug. 19 at 1:30 p.m. in the Lowell Mohler Assembly Hall, the fair’s Sale of Champions will take place. This event allows spectators to see and learn from competitors whose work has been recognized for its outstanding excellence. Each year more than 15 youth are awarded scholarships for their work and dedication in their varying fields of expertise. The fair is a wonderful place for younger school-aged children to see older students’ successes.
Each day highlights a special theme at the fair. On Aug. 15, attendees are encouraged to help others by donating canned food for $1 off the price of admission. The Missouri Famers Care Food Drive benefits Feeding Missouri, a group of several Missouri food banks aiming to provide hunger relief for Missourians across the state. Governors’, Legislators’ and Judges’ Day is Aug. 17, and it is also Throwback Thursday with discounted gate admissions and vendor pricing. Youth in Agriculture Day is Aug. 19, and there will be specials for those 12 and under throughout the fair. I encourage you to stop by your local Missouri County Extension office for a coupon to be used that day.
The fair has a tradition of encouraging Missouri’s youth in their agricultural endeavors; but there are also plenty of opportunities to make family memories that will last a lifetime. The 2017 Missouri State Fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 20. I encourage all residents of the 33rd District to attend. For more information, including admission prices and a complete schedule of daily events, please click here or visit the official Missouri State Fair website at www.mostatefair.com. You may also call (800) 422-FAIR (3247).
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882.