Big crowds for opening day at Fair

Photos by Tom Rivers

KNOWLESVILLE – Orleans County 4-H Fair officials usually expect to ease into the Fair week with a relatively quiet Monday.

But good-size crowds were out this evening, enjoying nice sunshine without really hot summer weather. Fair leaders were happy to see the seats filled for the talent show and some lines at the concession stands.

In the top photo, two children get ready to head down the Fun Slide as the sun sets in the background.

The opening ceremony included a presentation of Colors by veterans, including from left: Jim Freas of Medina, Kevin Truesdell of Medina and Ron Ayrault of Holley.

U.S. Rep. Chris Collins addressed the opening ceremony crowd. He said county fairs “are certainly a part of our great Western New York tradition.”

State Assemblyman Steve Hawley and Jim Bays, first deputy commissioner for the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets, also spoke during opening ceremonies. They commended the Cornell Cooperative Extension staff and volunteers for their work in planning the fair, which runs until Saturday night.

CCE program director Jennifer Wagester is at left followed by volunteers Gary Blackburn, Pete Toenniessen, John DeFilipps, Ed Neal (CCE president) and Michele Bokman.

The opening day included the Swine Show. Here, Blake Houseman, 2 1/2, of Gasport climbs up on the fence to get a better look at the action.

The talent show was also on the center stage. Allie Amoroso of Brockport performed a jazz solo to “Looking Good – Feeling Gorgeous.” She finished fifth and qualified for the State Fair.