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When you browse through this year's Jefferson County Fair Book, you'll likely come across a simple set of words on the third page.
There you will find the welcoming statement, a reminder that the fair is a showplace for the creative skills of people of all ages, as well as a place to see new products and exchange new ideas.
Those words sum up what the fair is all about and remind us, once again, that while many things in our lives seem to go by faster and faster and the tone of the world seems like it's getting meaner and meaner, it's good to be able to sit back, relax and enjoy some of the many things that surround us.
Another reminder can be found in the theme of this year's fair, "Stars, Stripes and Starry Nights."
The 154th edition of the annual event, which will run Monday through Aug. 17 at the Friendship Park Fairgrounds in Smithfield, truly will feature something for just about everyone.
There will be animals great and small, as well as displays of culinary skills that will range from canning to baking.
The best efforts of local gardeners also can be found.
You'll find the foods that are enjoyed as a guilty pleasure during fair time and a large assortment of rides for young and old to enjoy along the midway.
There are motorized events including a motocross and the annual demolition derby. Children will be able to participate in a pedal tractor pull. Plus, you'll find a talent show, a beautiful baby contest, cheerleading and dance competitions, the annual parade and a square dance.
You'll also be able to witness the pride and dedication shown by the youngsters who have put months of effort into their 4-H projects. And, the auction will be sure to serve up a surprise or two.
This year's fair will feature the Special Olympics Unified Livestock Show on Aug. 9. Presented through the efforts of Special Olympics Unified Sports, the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities and Jefferson County 4-H, the event features exhibitors with intellectual or developmental disabilities who are matched with mentors representing 4-H and FFA organizations.
That the fair has been able to run for more than 150 years is a testament to a strong board, the efforts of everyone associated with a flourishing 4-H program and a dedicated corps of volunteers who work throughout the year to ensure the event maintains the standards of quality area residents have come to expect.
Opening ceremonies are scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Monday in the Rozsa Pavilion, with activities scheduled to run through the evening of Aug. 17.
Plan to make the trip to Smithfield this week and discover, once again, some of the good things the region has to offer.