Thursday, August 14, 2008

Best, and longest, 4-H Fair parade ever

by Kenneth Lassiter

"One of the best and longest parades in Valley Falls' history" is how Gerry Metzger, a member of the parade committee, described the 60th run of the Jefferson County 4-H Fair, held Aug. 4.

Metzger estimated 600 participants in the parade and 2,500 spectators.

"Special thanks to all who participated to make this the best parade," Metzger said.

Oddly enough, the theme of the parade was "Making the Best Better."

Others in the chamber-sponsored parade committee were Nina Jepson, June Huston, and Cleo Tillery.

In a new category this year, judges awarded Andy Conser, local auctioneer, the loudest and most entertaining award. In other categories, these are the winners:

* Antique Tractors -- Jason Herring, furthest distance, 1957 John Deere 720 Diesel, Overland Park; and Carl Herring, oldest tractor, 1939 John Deere, Winchester.

* Antique Cars -- Nathan Hoffstra, furthest distance, 1956 Pontiac, Ozawkie; and James Durand, 1950 Hudson, Meriden.

* Civic Floats -- Jefferson County Humane Society, first; Grahem-Herbers Veterans of Foreign Wars Cannon, second; and Meriden Antique Engine and Threshing Association, third.

* Business Floats -- Jefferson County Memorial Hospital, Winchester, first; Denison State Bank, Meriden, and State Bank of Perry, tied for second; and the Entertainment Dance Studio, third.

* 4-H Club Floats -- Crackerjacks, first; Jolly Juniors, second; and Valley Victors, third.

* Church Float -- Calvary Baptist Church.

* Decorated Bikes, 7 and under: Spencer Family, Kathlyn, Alicia, and Madelene, first; and Faith Tucking, second.

* Decorated Bikes, 8 and over: Grace Tucking, first; Austin Barberry, second; and Lauren and Megan Harrington, third.

The Chamber awarded $410 in prize money split among the various categories. Participants are asked to pick up prize money at Aahhh Some Blossoms, 902 Broadway, if they did not pick it up at the fair.