A notice about a social event came courtesy of my publisher, Clarice, a few days beforehand: “We will be attending a special lunch Tuesday at the fairgrounds.”
Until that invitation (which I took as a directive), I was expecting just another “deadline” workday rife with editing stories and approving pages at the office.
Turns out, the occasion was more than a free meal: The Clay County Agricultural Fair Kick-off BBQ & Appreciation Lunch was a mouthful and then some. That’s why the picnic-like tables were set in the spacious Cattlemen’s Arena, which was teeming with local VIPS and other community leaders breaking bread.
Indeed, our hard-working page designer Julie would be afforded a lengthy break from my editorial advice and nitpicking.
Off I went, riding along in my colleague Leesa’s fancy vehicle. True to form, she settled into an ideal parking spot before we found ourselves momentarily waiting for the makeshift dining hall to welcome hundreds.
As hungry bystanders began strolling in, Clay Education Foundation members stood poised by the arena’s entrance, accepting donations in the form of food, school and pet supplies.
Many friends and neighbors mingled to exchange pleasantries, share a laugh and talk business, while newcomers like yours truly strained to recognize familiar faces while preparing to meet others. Sunglasses tend to compound any meet-and-greet challenge.
Soon thereafter, folks settled down to turn their gazes and lend their ears to an array of emcees and guest speakers – though not before an opening prayer and a lovely rendition of our National Anthem.
Musicians filled the air with a batch of toe-tapping tunes.
When the barbecue’s equivalent of “Soup’s on” was announced, those on hand rose orderly and politely, making their way to the food: savory chicken, pulled pork, a scoop of slaw here, baked beans there. The kicker: There were dutiful, generous servers dishing it out for us.
Naturally, an assortment of Southern-style beverages from lemonade to sweet tea were offered – along with boatloads of bottled water to keep attendees hydrated. Given the shaded venue and steady breeze, heat wouldn’t be a factor.
It wasn’t long before the county fair’s designated speakers would recognize long-term workers, volunteers, sponsors, philanthropists and scholarship recipients. The honorees received plaques and posed for photos to the intermittent sound of applause.
Through it all, Clay Today’s dedicated reporters, Kyla and Don, achieved their due diligence. The pleasant, efficient gathering ended without any noticeable glitches, complications or traffic jams.
If Tuesday’s community lunch was an accurate gauge of the fair April 3-13, its future is so bright I ought to wear shades.
