By Blake Jackson
The 39th Schnecksville Fair was a vibrant showcase of agriculture, with the dairy show taking center stage. Exhibitors from various counties proudly presented their animals, competing for top honors.
Allyson Templin, a dedicated 13-year-old with aspirations of becoming an agricultural teacher, emerged victorious with her 4-year-old Ayrshire cow, Margarita. The judge, Tanner Davis, praised Margarita's strong dairy features, solidifying her win as the supreme champion across five breeds.
Templin's passion for agriculture stems from her family's long history in the field. Caring for her Ayrshires and witnessing their growth from calves to milking cows brings her immense joy. Her commitment to continuous learning ensures her skills with the cattle are constantly improving.
Beyond the dairy competition, the fair bustled with 141 animals, including sheep, goats, dairy beef, and rabbits, all exhibited by enthusiastic young participants.
A bittersweet moment arrived when longtime fair president Emory Minnich, 82, announced his retirement after 21 years of dedicated service. Having succeeded the fair's founder, Paul Schwarz, Minnich has witnessed the changing landscape of agricultural representation at the fair. While the number of farm animals has decreased, Minnich applauds the continued involvement of young 4-H exhibitors from smaller farms.
Despite stepping down as president, Minnich's dedication remains unwavering. "I'll probably still be helping the fair," he declared. "It's in my blood." The search for his successor is ongoing.
The fair also welcomed Pennsylvania fair queen Erica Teagarden, an agriculture and Extension major at Penn State, and Richard Ruch, recognized as the "original fairgoer" for his volunteer service since the fair's early days as a carnival.
The Schnecksville Fair stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of agriculture and the dedication of its future generation.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-baranozdemir
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business