Another great day at the Fair
As thousands packed into the streets of Hillsboro to go craft shopping and/or take in some of the fantastic food, I had to ask myself, "How in the world did Hillsboro get so lucky?"
I mean how many communities can brag that they have an event every year, that draws 40,000 to 50,000 people to their small community? That's a lot of folks.
What an opportunity. And year in and year out, the city of Hillsboro lays out the red-carpet treatment to its guests for that one special day in September.
With the recent renovation of the streets, don't think the half-a-million dollar project wasn't appreciated.
In the ten minutes I spent walking to the office, I heard two different people (whom I didn't recognize) commenting on the improvements made to the downtown.
One of the ladies even made the comment that it looked "like a place where an arts and crafts show should be held."
I'm not a real arts and crafts kind of guy, and the crowds usually convince me to stay home and watch football. However, I did come down to the fair this weekend, and surprisingly, the experience was quite enjoyable.
I have to "tip my hat," as it's said, to the folks who have redesigned the layout of the exhibitors. I like that exhibitors now stretch further south on Main Street, too.
The lanes on the streets were clog-free this weekend, something I really appreciate. There was very little congestion which made walking around a real treat.
I'd also like to say "thank-you" to those who donated their time in cleaning up the mess that accompanies such a large-scale event. Volunteers are who make events special, and it certainly was.
Lastly, someone should tally how many Hillsboro kids work at the fair. From food booths to cleanup, the youth of Hillsboro were everywhere Saturday. Sure, for many, there are monetary rewards for the hard work, such as trips, or fundraising money, but without those kids, I'd bet things wouldn't function quite as well. So, if you know a youth who participated in some fashion or another, give him or her a pat on the back.
And for the folks on the Arts & Crafts Fair Board, another job well-done.
— ERIC CLARK
