Enjoy our Jay County Fair week

Fair week begins today.

Our Jay County 4-H events open with the dog show at 9 a.m. this morning. The entertainment portion of the fair will follow with rides, concerts and other events beginning Wednesday.

As we head out to the fairgrounds over the course of the next week, let’s remember a few things.

•Be safe.

Yes, be safe when it comes to the coronavirus pandemic. Keep social distance as much as possible. Wear a mask when the situation calls for it. Wash your hands. Use sanitizers. If you’re sick or have been around someone who’s sick, stay home.

But also, be safe when it comes to the heat. It’s been a brutal last couple of weeks in Jay County, including a heat advisory Thursday. The forecast doesn’t look as if it will be relenting any time soon. So, stay hydrated. Find shade. If you’re feeling ill, ask someone, anyone, for help.

•Be kind.

The last four months have not been easy for anyone. We’ve seen illness and death, we’ve shut down non-essential work, we’ve steered clear even of family and friends in an effort slow down the spread of COVID-19.

It’s understandable to be on edge.

But that doesn’t make bad behavior any more acceptable.

Remember that we’re all in this together.

•Have fun.

After all, that’s what the fair is about.

Jay County Fair Board committed to putting on a fair this year not be cause it would be easy or lucrative — it won’t be either — but because its members wanted to provide an outlet for their community.

This will be a fair unlike any other. Grandstand entertainment will be limited. There will be fewer rides. Some of the food vendors won’t be open.

But there will still be 4-H shows, concerts, rides, food, games and contests to enjoy.

If you arrive at the fairgrounds with a positive attitude, chances are you’ll talk away happy.

••••••••••

Many communities are not having a fair at all this year. (That includes no state fair in Indiana or Ohio.) Of those that are, most are not nearly as ambitious as the Jay County Fair will be.

Be thankful for this opportunity we have to enjoy ourselves together. Support the local vendors. Cheer on the 4-H members. Participate in the contests. Dance to the music.

It’s fair week. Even during a pandemic — especially during a pandemic — that’s something special. — R.C.