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The Marshall County Fair is just a few days away, setting the stage for a week filled with food, fun, animals, tractor pulls and more.
There also are other county fairs coming soon. The Belmont County Fair starts Sept. 1; the Ohio County Country Fair, Oct. 6; and the Jefferson County Fair, Aug. 6. There are others events scheduled this summer, but above all, county fairs offer a great way not only to partake in family fun, but to be part of your community and to learn more about your community.
Agriculture remains a critical part of the economy and our tri-state region. The agricultural sector contributes hundreds of billions of dollars to the economy and supports tens of thousands of jobs.
It can be a difficult career, the demands of which are more akin to a lifestyle than the 9-to-5 jobs with which many may be better acquainted. But it also is a vital career, responsible for feeding and clothing millions of Americans. And as we need farmers and other agricultural workers, we also need an appreciation for the sacrifices they make and a better frame of reference for how consumers, friends and neighbors of farmers can help them prosper so they can address those elemental needs.
The 4-H program, a stalwart of county fairs across West Virginia and Ohio, teaches young people the importance of the calling of agriculture and the values and principles that allow our rural communities to thrive. The hard work of youngsters in 4-H will also teach fair-goers of all ages an appreciation for our state's rich history of farming.
So get out and visit a county fair this summer and fall. Bid on a ham. Support your 4-H.