The Monmouth County Fair concluded its 29th annual run at the East Freehold Park Showgrounds in Freehold Township on July 27. The Monmouth County Park System thanks the hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, stage performers, event coordinators, park ranger staff and 4-H members on a job well done.
A total of 1,415 ribbons, trophies and honors were presented.
From Jack Aaronson of Free-hold’s first place Classic Chevy to Francine Yamello of West Long Branch’s first place muffins, winners went home with recognition for being the best, the fastest or the most excellent.
Near perfect July weather provided the backdrop for five days of fun. By Sunday’s closing, 95,000 people had come through the gate and had a chance to view 4-H exhibits, visit the midway, and sample fried Twinkies.
Fairgoers made sure to visit the new attractions of the Olym-pics of the Forest’s lumberjack competition and the first Pie Eating contest. Mike Fox gobbled up a Wemrock Orchards blueberry pie in 3 minutes and 45 seconds!
As fair chairman, I appreciate the efforts of the 2003 Fair Committee: Paul McCue, Bob Cain, Mary Ann Goodwin, Karen Halvorsen, Doug Krampert, Susan Liu, Laura Kirkpatrick, Fran Martone, Louise McCook, Patty O’Rourke and Sandy Byard and Tom Fobes.
And special thanks to 4-H coordinators Robin Bruins, Bruce Timmerman, Robin Joline and Ellen Williams. All of these people put forth extra effort to ensure that the Monmouth County Fair was run well.
Thank you to the Monmouth County community for making the 29th annual Monmouth County Fair a success. This cooperative effort between the park system and the 4-H Association is a great summer tradition that provides affordable family fun and great memories for all.
Andrew Spears
2003 Monmouth County
Fair chairman
Middletown