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Two governors take in Ohio State Fair
By MARC KOVAC
COLUMBUS
Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland skipped the chocolate- covered bacon, but he did sample Ohio-made jellies and ice cream Wednesday, the first day of the State Fair.
The state’s top Democratic officeholder also took time to join his predecessor, Republican Bob Taft, at the naming of the fairgrounds Coliseum in his honor.
More than 800,000 people are expected to attend the fair, which runs through Aug. 8 at the state fairgrounds just north of downtown Columbus. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children age 5-13 and seniors older than 60.
“Our fair keeps getting better and better each year,” said General Manager Virgil Strickler. “We have great food, great rides, great exhibits, landscaping, flowers, livestock shows, horse shows, live entertainment — it is endless.”
He added, “The way I look at it, it’s just fair-tastic.”
Strickland and First Lady Frances Strickland helped to cut the ceremonial ribbon marking the official opening of the fair and then spent the morning touring booths.
The governor plans to spend tonight on the grounds, continuing a tradition started by former Gov. James Rhodes.
The fair has “become a part of summer life in Ohio,” Strickland said. “But through it all, the Ohio State Fair has been a treasured celebration of our people, places and the products of Ohio.”
On Tuesday, Strickland participated in the naming of a fairgrounds building in honor of Taft, who sported the cowboy hat he wore during the annual event while serving in office.
“I wear it to make me look taller,” Taft joked. “I think the last time I wore the hat was at the fair, so I thought I better bring it out today.”
He added, “This is an important day for me. I have so many good memories and a real love for this fair. ... It’s a special place, an extraordinary place, it’s a meeting ground for people all over the state of Ohio.”