One of the fondest memories I have from my childhood are the many summers spent attending county fairs. While at the time I was more concerned with how many rides I was going to be able to enjoy or how much fair food my parents would let me eat, looking back, I realize that those days spent at the county fair were much more than just summer fun, they provided me with a greater appreciation for the agricultural industry in our state, as well as a unique learning opportunity.

Ohio’s county fairs not only serve as a gathering place for local communities, but they help to showcase the importance of agriculture to our state and the talent of local folks from around the county. In addition to the great food and fun rides that are part of every fair, these events also serve as a marketplace for locally produced goods, such as livestock, beef, dairy and other products.

One reason that county fairs throughout Ohio are ripe with agricultural influences can be attributed to the fact that Ohio is the birthplace of the 4-H program and boasts the nation’s largest enrollment numbers. Additionally, our state leads the nation in the number of Future Farmers of America. Those involved with these programs add to the experience of a county fair by proudly displaying the quilts, baked goods and livestock they have made or raised in hopes of earning that blue ribbon. As you can imagine, the support and feedback they receive is invaluable in shaping their work ethic and determination.

Aside from the numerous animals displayed at county fairs, food and entertainment are also enjoyed by fairgoers. Fresh squeezed lemonade, elephant ears, hamburgers, cotton candy and candy apples are yearly favorites. Of course the kids love the carousel, bumper cars, and other amusement rides. The grandstands are a favorite hangout and great place to catch horse races and country music concerts.

Another part of the fairs that I have come to enjoy and appreciate are the opportunities it gives Ohioans to meet their local and statewide elected officials. The discussions I have had with my constituents at county fairs have enabled me to help them with issues they are currently facing, as well as highlight areas where legislation may be needed to address a problem affecting many people.

In an effort to ensure everyone has ample time to plan for and attend as many of our county fairs as possible, I have take the liberty providing you with the dates for the county fairs in the 12th Senate District:

Allen County Fair, August 17 – 25, Lima, Ohio
Auglaize County Fair, July 30 – August 4, Wapakoneta, Ohio
Champaign County Fair, August 3 – 10, Urbana, Ohio
Darke County Fair, August 17 – 25, Greenville, Ohio
Mercer County Fair, August 7 – 13, Celina, Ohio
Preble County Fair, July 28 – August 4, Eaton, Ohio
Shelby County Fair, July 23 – 29, Sidney, Ohio

So as the first fair of the season approaches, I encourage each of you to get out there and see all your county has to offer. Spend this time with family and friends and create memories that will last a lifetime!

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife offers several ways for families to hunt together and create lasting traditions in the state’s outdoors. ODNR has set up special youth hunting engagements for small game, waterfowl, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey.
To participate in the upcoming youth hunts, all young hunters must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult, and must abide by all regular hunting hours and bag limits. A valid 2009-10 youth hunting license, along with the appropriate permits, are required. For complete details on all of Ohio’s youth hunting season, refer to the 2009-10 Ohio Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543) or go online to www.wildohio.com.
In addition, please feel free to visit the many resources offered by ODNR, at their website www.ohiodnr.com.

Even though the casinos were not the result of legislative action, but rather from a voter initiative which amended the constitution, we do need to assure that they will operate transparently, fairly and in the best interests of all Ohioans. Over the last few months, we have consulted with many of the nations’ leading gaming industry experts, as well as local entities who may be impacted by casinos in Ohio to offer their advice on the appropriate language for the casinos in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Toledo.

The casinos will be regulated by a seven-member Ohio Casino Control Commission responsible for the licensure, regulation and oversight of casino gaming for the state, which includes electronic skill-based amusement machines, or games-of-skill. The appointees and the chair of the Commission will be selected by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Ohio Senate. Members would serve four-year staggered terms and could be reappointed for a total of three terms.

We also created the Permanent Joint Committee on Gaming and Wagering which will be made up of three members appointed by the President of the Senate and three members appointed by the Speaker of the House. The committee will review constitutional amendments, laws and rules governing the operation and administration of casino gaming and recommend changes. (more)