The Monmouth County Fair concluded its 32nd annual run at the East Freehold Park Showgrounds in Freehold Township on July 30. The Mon-mouth County Park System thanks the hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, stage performers, event coordinators, park rangers, 4-H members, volunteers and sponsors on a job well done.
A total of 1,472 ribbons, trophies and honors were presented. From Atlantic Highlands’ Bobby Adams’ winning woodworking to Farmingdale’s Margaret Zien-tek’s red ribbon plum tomato, Monmouth County residents went home with recognition for being the best, the fastest, or the most excellent.
While dozens of people tried to be the fastest blueberry pie eater, Kenny Jackson of Freehold was victorious at five minutes and 38 seconds. Wemrock Orchards once again donated the tasty and colorful pies.
Warmer than normal July weather provided the backdrop for five days of fun. By Sunday’s closing, 67,000 people had entered the fair gate and had a chance to view 4-H exhibits, visit the midway and enjoy refreshing lemonade.
Several lucky fairgoers went home winners of the Friends of the Parks 50/50 raffles. Special thank you to 2006 sponsors First Energy Foundation/JCP&L, Tri-State Building Associates and United Way of Monmouth County.
As fair chairman, I appreciate the efforts of all my fellow park system employees who continue to do a fantastic job, day in and day out, in delivering recreation facilities, programs and events to county residents. I also extend a great big thanks to the 2006 Fair Committee: Paul McCue, Bob Cain, Mary Ann Goodwin, Karen Halvorsen, Doug Krampert, Laura Kirkpatrick, Susan Liu, Francine Lorelli, Louise McCook, Fran Martone and Drew D’Apolito. And special thanks to 4-H coordinators Meg White-house, Bruce Timmerman, Robin Joline, Kelly Valente and Ellen Williams. All of these people put forth extra effort to ensure the Monmouth County Fair continues to be a quality family-oriented event.
Thank you to the Monmouth County community for making the 32nd 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.
Bob Ward
chairman
2006 Monmouth County Fair
Middletown