‘It takes a village’ to hold a successful fair

Rob and Chase Bradbury look at student art at the Langton Fair.

Chris Abbott

Editor

The sun was shining for the 135th Langton Fair on Sept. 17, as it does most years.

It lifted spirits as people browsed their exhibits, pounded nails, tied tobacco, bounced on inflatables, or enjoyed the fair food at the Langton Lions Community Sports Complex and the Langton community centre.

“On behalf of Norfolk County and our Mayor Amy Martin, I’d like to congratulate everybody’s who has come out today,” said Norfolk County Ward 2 Coun. Linda Vandendriessche, who also volunteers with the North Walsingham Agricultural Society. “And I’d like to congratulate Carol (Overbaugh) and her staff, and all the hard work, because that’s what it does – it brings all this stuff together.

“It’s a beautiful day, there’s lots of stuff for you kids to do, lots of activities, so I want you to enjoy the day and have lots of fun,” said Vandendriessche during opening ceremonies, which followed the energetic parade.

On behalf of the Province of Ontario, Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady also thanked Overbaugh and her Langton Fair crew, and congratulated everyone who entered artwork and exhibits in the arena.

“What a wonderful day to be here at the Langton Fair, I don’t think the weather could get any better,” said Brady. “Rural fairs like this one, they are such an important part of our rural way of life. They bring us together as neighbours, we celebrate the hard work of our famers, and it also reminds us of the traditions that make this area so very important.

“Year after year, this group’s dedication ensures that this fair – although it might be small – is very, very mighty.”

Overbaugh, who had a long list of thank yous, thanked all the people and volunteers who helped make the fair a success, including the staff and students at Langton Public School, Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary School, Norfolk Little People’s Day Care, Valley Heights Secondary School, and Holy Trinity Catholic High School.

“It’s beyond words,” said Overbaugh. “They are always there for us, supporting us, putting exhibits in, bringing the cheerlearders, whatever is asked they do, and do very well. We truly appreciate your help, support and participation.

“Thanks also to the parents, grandparents and all the community for your tremendous support and participation. And the arena staff – everything I ask for is there and done. You are all amazing and we thank you so much.”

Overbaugh also thanked Frank and Shirley DeDobbelaer for organizing the car show and Eric Dekeyser for the tractors, the Langton firefighters for leading the parade, Al Ross as parade marshal, the Langton CWL for the student lunch, the Langton Lions who handled fair admission, and all the judges.

“Without our volunteers, this day would not happen,” said Overbaugh, who concluded by thanking the hardworking fairboard and the community for coming out to support and participate in the 135th Langton Fair.