Author: Kolt

Commissioners Assist in Asphalt Resurfacing

Posted on by Kolt Posted in UpdatesTagged , , , ,

At April’s Monthly Board Meeting, Hardin County Commissioner Roger Crowe addressed the Hardin County Fair Board in response to a request to have the County Engineer’s office reseal the county road spaces on the fairgrounds. Crowe made mention that while the engineer’s office was willing to reseal the county roads on the grounds, the office would need further compensation for the parking spaces on the grounds.

Crowe made note that the math equated to a 65/35 split. Commissioner Crowe then told the board that the Commissioners were prepared to cover the remaining balance that would be left to the fair board, which was approximately $8,471.

Kelly “Buck” Buchenroth, chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee expressed the thanks of the board.

We are all very thankful for the help and support from the Commissioners. They are a great asset in keeping the grounds maintained, and mamking it one of the nicest fairgrounds around the area.

Commissioner Crowe commented on behalf of the commissioners:

The Hardin County Commissioners have agreed to cover the cost to treat [the] additional areas.  The total contribution by the Commissioners will be approximately $8,471.  In addition to the road project and as has been done in years past, the County has made a $10,000 contribution to the Agricultural Society.  This contribution has been placed in a capital improvement fund for future use.

April Meeting Held

Posted on by Kolt Posted in 2018 Fair, Board MeetingsTagged ,

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Wednesday, April 4, 2018, for their regular board meeting. All twenty-one directors were present along with ten guests.

Craig Stump, President, called the meeting to order.

Kolt Buchenroth, stated there is now a new site being used to make the quarterly newsletter, done by Judi Cronley. People can sign up to get the newsletter through Facebook or the fair board’s website. A branding logo is being made for the fair and the website is being updated. Kolt expressed a need for the Secretary’s office to have an office IPad. The board agreed to purchase an IPad for the office, start a recurring monthly charge for an updated website and do a banner upgrade to the website.
Mike Comstock, representing the 4th of July Fireworks stated he would like a harmless clause initiated for others, than himself to shoot off fireworks at other sites, than the Hardin County Fairgrounds. This is for the other licensed fireworks workers that want to help put on fireworks off site. The board agreed to go ahead with this request. Judi Cronley noted that a 4th of July Fireworks Committee meeting is set for Monday, April 9th at 7pm.
Roger Crowe, County Commissioner, stated the County Engineer has been in contact with the commissioners about resealing all the roads in the fairgrounds and stated they wouldn’t be able to cover the whole cost, so the commissioners have agreed to pay the remaining 35%. The board thanked the commissioners for this generous offering.
Mark Light, OSU 4-H Extension Agent, stated club enrollment deadline is April 13th.
Mark Badertscher, OSU Extension Agent, stated the first Goat Banquet is to be held this Saturday, April 7th at 5:30pm, at the Christian Missionary Alliance Church.
Chris Rogers, representing Shane’s Shirts, introduced himself.
Paul Ralston, fair board director and member of the Hardin Community Fair Foundation, gave an update on the Foundation. There were $7,922 in deposits made in 2017, $9,376.24 in net earnings, giving them a balance of $81,178.58 for the year. Donations can be made to the Foundation by writing checks to the Hardin Community Foundation – Fair Fund, P.O. Box 317, Kenton, Ohio.

The board approved the 990 for the IRS.

The board agreed to have a fee for vendors to pay for electric use during the 4th of July. It will be $50 for a 220 hookup and $25 for a 110 hookup. The board also agreed to purchase a new Ferris IS2100Z mower from Ritchey Auto and Tire Center with our trade in. And finally the board moved to have the county fix both places of the roads in the fairgrounds that need repaired.

Craig Stump, representing the Camping Committee, stated there are a couple new rules for fair camping. One being if an emergency arises and you are unable to camp for the year, you must call the office ASAP. If the secretary can fill that spot for the year, then the original camper will be given a camping refund. Another rule deals with camping spots that are paid, but don’t have a camper at the spot. That can only happen for one year, to keep the spot. Camping spots need to be rented to those who want to camp that year, not just for spots to be rented for a future year.

Rob Wilson, representing the entertainment committee, stated all contracts for entertainment have been signed.

Livestock judges are needed for the Dairy Dept., Dairy Beef Feeders & Steers, and Beef Dept.

Sherri Beale, representing the Jr. Fair Board stated the Jr. Fair Board did well during the Consignment Sale. They have also decided to be show sponsors for the Mobile Glass Blower, Dino-Roar, Bear Hollow Wood Carver and the Columbus Zoo.

Judi Cronley, gave an update on fair sponsors for 2018. New sponsors are Hensel Ready Mix, Diamond M Vet Clinic, Ron Eastman for County Commissioner, Ferguson Insurance Agency, Buckeye Hybrids, American Family Insurance, Wilson Tire Comp., and Barb’s French Fries and Waffles.

There is still an opportunity for a group that has a 501-C-3 status, to work the fair gates on Friday of the fair. The group would receive $1000 and around 35 volunteers would be needed to fulfill their obligations. Any qualified group interested should call the Fair Secretary’s office at 419-675-2396.

Under old business:
There are 5 directors and guests attending the District I & II meeting in Jenera Ohio on April 14th.
Non Livestock judges are needed for Culinary Arts, Cultural Arts, Youth, Pie Day, Decorative Painting, fine arts, woodworking, crafts/ceramics and HS Art.
Winter storage items will be available for pick up on Saturday, April 14th.

Under new business:
It was noted camping contracts for the 2018 fair will be going out soon.
The Radio Rental Contract from Audio Innovators was discussed and the board would like to further research options for radios.
The Hardin County Fairgrounds will be the drop off site for the city wide clean up, April 16-April 19th.
The 2018 Hardin County Fair t-shirt design was shown to the board.
A grounds/executive board meeting was set for Tuesday, April 24th at 7pm.
The next regular board meeting will be Wednesday, May 2nd at 7:00pm in the Fair Office.

Board Holds First Weeknight Meeting

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Board Meetings

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Wednesday, March 7, 2018, for their first Wednesday night regular board meeting.  Nineteen directors were present and 13 guests were present.

Craig Stump, the President, called the meeting to order.

Kolt Buchenroth, stated there have been 50,000 Consignment Sale Posts off of the original post.  There have been a lot of new categories added to the fair book and some of them have been posted through social media.

Ron Eastman spoke about his bid for running for County Commissioner.

Roger Crowe, County Commissioner, stated the check for 2018 appropriations to the Hardin County Ag. Society has been sent.

Denna Clem, Chairperson of the 4th of July Committee, stated sponsorship letters have been mailed and reminded everyone that the start of the day on the 4th, will start with the kick off of the parade.  The board moved to advance the 4th of July Committee $7500.

Mark Badertscher, OSU Extension Agent, stated livestock banquets continue and will be wrapping up soon.

Rick Smith, Superintendent of Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, spoke about their issue on the ballot.  He stated this will be the first time in 40 years that they will be on the ballot.

Nancy Rickenbacher, from the Jr. Fair Board, stated they continue to look for more sponsors for trophies and ribbons.  President for Jr. Fair Board this year is Nathan Matheson, Vice President is Chase Fleece and Secretary is McKenzie Jolliff

Mike Stock asked the board about renting a building for him to store a semi and offer skid sales out of it.  The board agreed to let the ground’s committee decide on a price for him.

A correspondence was read from the family of Tom Kritzler.  They would like a utility cart or something like it purchased with the money donated in his memory.

Four proposals for septic prices during the week of the fair were discussed.  The board moved to accept the bid from F&L Septic. The recommendations from the ground’s committee on issues dealing with the Machinery Building, fencing, and portable steps were approved.  A couple issues for the County Engineer were discussed.

Rob Wilson, representing the entertainment committee moved to keep the truck/tractor pull gate prices and demo derby gates prices the same as last year.  $6 for general admission, $8 for reserved seats, and $10 for pit tickets. The band and choir show tickets will also remain the same as last year. They will be $4 for general admission and $5 for reserved seats.

Jeff Morris, Chairperson of the goat committee stated they have changed the “Just Kidding around Goat Fun Day’ from Sunday afternoon to Thursday evening of the fair.  It was determined there will not be any changes to how livestock judging grades are done this year. Nonlivestock judging grade premiums were changed to $2 for an A, $1 for a B, and no money for a C.

Janie Seiler, the chairperson of the rides committee, stated there were 180 contracts mailed today for concession and vendor spots.  Janie also discussed an opportunity to have a combine simulator at the Fair from the Hardin County Farm Bureau. The board agreed this was a good idea.

It was noted sponsorship packets have been mailed and those are due back by March 14th, to be advertised in the fair book.

There is still an opportunity for a group that has a 501-C-3 status, to work the fair gates on Friday of the fair.  The group would receive $1000 and around 35 volunteers would be needed to fulfill their obligations. Any qualified group interested should call the Fair Secretary’s office at 419-675-2396.

Under old business:

The consignment sale is this Saturday, March 10th at 9am, with items being dropped off Wednesday – Friday 9am-5:30pm, March 7-9th.  Those interested in attending the Dist. I & II meeting in Jenera, Ohio were announced.  Judi Cronley noted that all non-livestock fair book changes are needed now. The 2018 fair book is being finalized this month.

Under new business:

Brad Murphy discussed a new Horse Show Rental Agreement.  The new agreement was approved. Brad also discussed the need for a racing timer and pole bending set for the horse arena and the board OK’d those to be purchased.  Judges for non-livestock and livestock are needed w/email addresses by April 4th to Judi Cronley.  The opening time of the fair was moved to 12 noon on Tuesday, Sept. 4th, to help accommodate those wanting to attend other events starting at 1pm.  Jr. Fair online entry deadline will be the same as last year, July 31st at midnight.  Open Class entry deadline will be Friday, August 17th at 5pm in the office or online at midnight.  It was noted campers, trailers, boats, etc. will come out of storage Saturday, April 14th.  Kelly Buchenroth stated the bucket truck from AEP has been repainted and rust spots have been fixed.  The next regular board meeting will be Wednesday, April 4th at 7:00pm in the Fair Office.

Corey Ledley and Howard Lyle moved to go into an Executive Session to discuss some issues regarding the consignment sale.  Pete Fout and Judi Cronley were requested to stay at the meeting. The meeting began at 8:49pm and ended at 8:59pm.

The regular meeting reconvened at 9pm.  The board moved to accept the bids from the Executive Session.

Charlie McCullough moved to adjourn.  Seconded by Mark Garmon. Motion passed.

2018 Season Kicked Off With Annual Beef Weigh In

Posted on by Kolt Posted in 2018 Fair, 2018 Fair Week, Junior FairTagged , , , , , , , ,
Sammie Unger leads her calf into a chilly December 30th weigh in.

The unofficial kickoff to the next fair season was held in the form of the 2018 Beef Weigh In. 64 animals were weighed in total. 35 market beef animals were processed, while 29 dairy beef steers crossed the scales.

Fair Board Celebrates Christmas, Meets for January

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Board Meetings, UpdatesTagged , , , , ,

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Thursday, December 21, 2017, at the Plaza Inn in Mt. Victory for their January board meeting and Holiday Dinner.  Nighteen directors were present  and 30 guests were present.

Craig Stump, President, called the meeting to order.

Judi Cronley, Notary for the Hardin County Ag. Society, swore in Dale Cockerell, newly appointed Director at Large.

Mark Badertscher, OSU Extension Agent, stated all steers need to be registered by Wednesday, Dec. 27th and then be weighed at the fairgrounds on Saturday, Dec. 30th between the hours of 10am-12 noon.  

Roger Crowe, Hardin County Commissioner, stated his thankfulness to the board and since attending the board meetings this past year– has discovered how much work the directors put into the fairgrounds all year long.

Luke Underwood, Deputy County Engineer, thanked the board for inviting him to the dinner and stated how appreciative he is of the directors and also made the directors aware of a drainage project that will affect the fairgrounds.

Craig Stump then honored the newly past directors – Kerry James for 14 years on the board, Jim Bidwell for 33 years on the board and Ray Davis for 39 years on the Board.  Not present was Jeff Madison, who served 11 years on the board.  

Corey Ledley, Vice President and Chair of the Executive Committee discussed the Fair Committee Assignments for the 2018 Fair.  Judi Cronley discussed the 2017 Annual Report, which then was approved.  It was noted the loan to Quest Federal Credit Union has been paid off and employees have received their bonus checks.  A list of the meeting dates for 2018 were also announced.  

Kelly Buchenroth, chairman of the Grounds Committee, stated they will be meeting after the OFMA convention in January.  

Craig Stump, chairman of the Camping Committee, discussed the meeting that was held with Rick Bard of the Cushman’s Group.  The board accepted the committee’s recommendations for charging the group.  This proposal will be given to the group and they will let the board know in January of their decision.  Craig also discussed a conversation he had with Sue Bailey, representing the Top 20, in regards to using either the Arts/Crafts Building or Community Building for a weekly practice for a couple of hours, for the next 3 months.  The board accepted a recommendation on payment.  

Rob Wilson, representing the entertainment committee, stated they are still in talks about Saturday night’s entertainment and he will be researching possibilities for Wednesday night’s entertainment at the OFMA Convention.  

Don Spar, chairperson of the Livestock Committee, stated there will be a Jr. Fair Livestock Sale Committee Meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 17th at 7pm in the fair office, followed by the Livestock Committees meeting after that meeting.  

Sherri Beale stated the Jr. Fair board members have been set for 2018 and hopes some of them will be able to attend the OFMA convention in January.  

There was no Old Business to discuss.

Under new business:

  • Fair board Directors were paid their annual salary of $1.00
  • It was noted the 4th quarter newsletter has been emailed and there are hard copies available in the office.
  • The Consignment Sale is set for Saturday, March 10th at 9am and rates will remain the same as last year.
  • The Community Building will be used for a week in January by the Police and Sheriff Depts. for a training.
  • The next regular board meeting will be Saturday, February 3rd at 7:30pm in the Fair Office.  This will be the board’s last regular meeting on a Saturday.

 

Board of Directors Meet in December

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Board Meetings, Updates

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Saturday, December 2, 2017, at the Hardin County Fairgrounds for their monthly board meeting.  Eighteen directors were present and 13 guests were present.

Craig Stump, President, called the meeting to order.

Rick Bard, representing the Mid Ohio Cushman’s Club, requested to have a meeting to discuss the idea of having their annual scooter show at the Hardin County Fairgrounds.  The organization is looking into having a new site for May of 2019.  A meeting was set for Wednesday, Dec. 6th at 1pm to discuss this idea further.  

Nancy Rickenbacher, representing the Jr. Fair Board, stated they are currently looking for new Jr. Fair Board members, with hopes of some of them attending the annual OFMA convention in January.  

 

A thank you was read from Kim Butcher, Central Ohio Tractor Pullers.

Corey Ledley, Vice President and Chair of the Executive Committee discussed the executive committee meeting minutes.  The board moved to pay off the loan the board has with Quest Federal Credit Union.  The Annual Holiday Dinner at the Plaza Inn Rest., will be on Thursday, Dec. 21st at 6pm.  The board moved to start having a cleaning fee of $200 for use of the chair covers in the community building.  There is currently no charge for using the chair covers and no cleaning fee.  The board also moved to change the linear footage charge for boats, trailers, rv’s etc. from $7.00 to $10.00 – which will go into effect next season.  Meal ticket prices were agreed to change during the 2018 fair to $12 max on the adult meal ticket and increase the Jr. Meal ticket to $6.  Monthly board meetings are being changed to the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm, to start on March 7th, 2018.  The board moved to change the office hourly staff rate and increase the Sec./Treasurer salary.  Employee contracts were updated for 2018.  The 2018 budget was approved.  Jason Fulton was nominated for the Buck Twp. Director for one year.  Current directors then voted by paper for the Director at Large Vacancy for one year.  Those interested in the position were:  Jeff Haudenschield, Justin Dick, Eric Haudenschield, Earnie Davis and Dale Cockerell.  After voting was done, the top vote getter was Dale Cockerell.  The 2018 code of conduct was then signed by all board members.  Judi Cronley then swore in directors Jeff Morris and Jason Fulton.  Two new members for the executive committee were voted on by paper vote with Howard Lyle and Paul Ralston winning those votes.  They will join committee members:  Craig Stump, President, Corey Ledley, Vice President, Kelly Buchenroth, and Brad Murphy.  

Kelly Buchenroth, chairman of the Grounds Committee, stated they are working on prices for trading in the mower.  Judi Cronley stated winter storage is full except for small items and vehicles that can still be stored.  

Rob Wilson, representing the entertainment committee, discussed the entertainer survey that was done through Facebook.  Dylan Scott, with an opener, won by a 77% margin over Michael Ray.  There were 456 people who voted.  The board moved to offer Dylan Scott more money to try and secure him as our entertainer if needed.  Rob discussed the KOI drag racing idea for Wednesday night of the fair and needs ideas for the Hour of Inspiration.  Brad Murphy then discussed other free entertainment for the week of the fair.  The board moved to have Bear Hollow Wood Carvers and a glass blower for the week.    

Judi Cronley announced there are still 16 families that need to cash their Jr. Fair Livestock exhibitor checks.  Don Spar stated he will address this issue.  It was noted internet options for fairground use and especially for the Jr. Fair Livestock Sale are being researched.  Don Spar announced the Jr. Fair Livestock Sale Committee will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 17th at 7pm with the Livestock Committees meeting after this meeting.  

Under old business:  

Judi Cronley discussed those wanting to attend the annual OFMA convention in January.  

Under new business:

It was announced Ray Davis will be inducted into the Ohio Fair Managers Associations Hall of Fame on Sunday, Jan. 7th, 2018.  Other inductees from Hardin County have been Giles Koehler in 1997 and Dave Howard in 2007.  The Board will receive one communication award during the Ohio Dept. of Ag. Breakfast, also on Sunday, Jan. 7th.  The next regular board meeting will be Thursday, December 21st at 6:00pm at the Plaza Inn Rest, in Mt. Victory for a dinner and meeting.  The board will be honoring 4 past directors for their long time service to the board.

Hardin County Fair Foundation Asks For Your Support on #GivingTuesday

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Fair Foundation, UpdatesTagged ,

On this #GivingTuesday, we are asking for your support of our Hardin County Fair Foundation.

The Hardin County Fair Foundation financially supports the Hardin County Fair to preserve and improve the fair for generations to come. The fair foundation’s sole income is by donation.

We believe in transparency. Here are the numbers of the foundation:

In 2016, Junior Fair Members and other generous parties donated $28,242.12 which brings the foundation’s balance to $63,880.34 at the conclusion of 2016.

The mission is to raise $100,000 before the group can start pursuing and completing projects. While that is a large number, and we are over halfway to our goal, every penny still counts.

We want to especially thank those Junior Fair Members that have donated portions of their livestock sale proceeds to support the foundation’s mission, and continue to grow the experience that has impacted so many people.

Concert Committee Seeks Public Input

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Concert, Updates

The Concert Committee of the fair board is seeking your opinion as we begin to book acts for the 2018 fair. Please cast your vote, and share with your friends.

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Hardin County Fair Board Reorganizes

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Updates

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met on Saturday, November 4th with Howard Lyle, Acting President, presiding.

Howard Lyle reported the election results:

McDonald Township: Dan Beale

Blanchard Township: Rob Wilson

Cessna Township: Jack McBride

Dudle Township: Brad Murphy

Lynn Township: Paul Ralston

Marion Township: Craig Decker

Taylor Creek Township: Kelly Buchenroth

Top 2 At-Large Director winners: Charlie McCullough and Jeff Morris

Letters of resignations were received from Charlie McCullough for Buck Township and Kelly Buchenroth, an At-Large Position. Janie Seiler and Craig Stump moved to accept the letters of resignation. Motion passed.

All directors present were sworn into office by Judi Cronley, notarizer.

With 39 members paid for 2018, the election of officers was held. Kelly Buchenroth moved to nominate Craig Stump for President and Rob Wilson seconded the motion. Corey Ledley moved to close the nominations, with Andrew Scharf seconding that motion. Motion passed. Kelly Buchenroth moved to nominate Corey Ledley for Vice President and Justin Beale seconded the motion. Rob Wilson moved to close the nominations with Mark Garmon seconding that motion. Motion passed.

Janie Seiler moved to keep the monthly meeting dates, the 1st Saturday of each month at 7:30pm. Paul Rickenbacher seconded the motion. Then Paul Ralston and Mark Garmon moved to only approve the dates until the March meeting and then discuss a different date. Motion approved. Mark Garmon and Andrew Scharf moved to keep the Annual Meeting and Re-organizational meeting on November 3rd, 2018 at 7:30pm. Motion passed.

Mark Garmon moved to adjourn the meeting and Justin Beale seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Hardin County Agricultural Society Holds Annual Meeting

Posted on by Kolt Posted in Updates

The Hardin County Agricultural society met with President, Howard Lyle presiding. 18 directors along with 21 Hardin County Agricultural Society members were present.

The minutes of last year’s annual meeting were read. Kelly Buchenroth moved they be approved as read. Greg Liedel seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Ray Davis moved the price of a membership and season ticket be set at $20.00, the same as last year. Jeff Madison seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Greg Liedel moved that Director’s pay continue to be an annual price of $1.00. Jim Bidwell seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The annual conflict of interest document for 2017/18 was given to every director and signed by all directors in attendance.

Mark Light and Kolt Buchenroth moved to have the Annual Meeting in either the Arts/Crafts Building or the Community Building due to the large number of members attending the annual meeting. Motion passed.

Judi Cronley suggested the Constitution of the Hardin County Agricultural Society be revised. Director resignations were then discussed. Kolt Buchenroth and Justin Beale moved that a director does not need to resign from their current position, when they decide to run for a different director position. Then Greg Liedel and Kolt Buchenroth amended the motion to state when a Township Director moves to a different Township during their term, they need to resign after the fair of that year. Motion passed. . Kolt Buchenroth and Dale Cockerell moved that once a director is elected to another position and it is announced at the annual re-organizational meeting, that director needs to turn in a letter of resignation so they can be sworn into their new position. Motion passed.

Ray Davis then thanked the board for his many years of being a director. Judi Cronley stated the fair board is losing 97 years of knowledge in 4 directors resigning. Ray Davis – 39 years, Jim Bidwell – 33 years, Kerry James – 14 years, and Jeff Madison – 11 years.

Next year’s annual meeting, with the annual election to be held on the same day from 3-7pm, will be on Nov. 3rd, 2018.

Kolt Buchenroth moved to adjourn and Dale Cockerell seconded the motion. Motion carried.