PIKE COUNTY, Mo. — The Pike County Fair Board held a special presentation on Saturday, Jan. 8 to officially dedicate the livestock barn and reveal the sign that will be displayed honoring all the hardworking FFA advisors and 4-H leaders, past and present, who have helped to make the facility what it is today.

Fair Board President Bryan Dempsey welcomed guests and noted that fair board members know how much work goes into the events at the livestock barn.

“We are also aware of the countless hours that past and present 4-H leaders and FFA advisors put into preparing for fair week,” Dempsey remarked. “Most people who come to the fair, livestock shows or the sale of champions do not realize what all you do, but we see it every year. The time, passion and dedication that FFA advisors and 4-H leaders put towards the youth of this community does not go unnoticed.”

Dempsey went on to thank advisors and leaders for everything they have done in the past and continue to do today.

“Congratulations and on behalf of the entire Pike County Fair Board and all its members, we thank you.”

Former Bowling Green FFA advisor Mr. Bill Mallory had planned to be among the special guests at the ceremony, but was unable to attend. Family members of the late Mike McCrory, Clopton FFA advisor, attended in his memory and were given special recognition.

FFA advisors and 4-H leaders who were in attendance included Joe and Paulette Bruch, Bess Gamm, Amy Biggs, Leslie Lovell, Ann Glass, Brock Bailey, Jason Davis, Chris Niemeyer, Alicia Flowers, Matt Graves, Patty Fisher and Karen McCrory. They joined for a photo with the new signage as well as the McCrory family.

Patty Fisher, a long-time fixture in the livestock barn during fair week, was asked to discuss how things have changed over the years. She pointed out the fair started by being held in the Bowling Green city park. Quonset huts were used for exhibits and for other purposes. She added that since the fair moved to its current location there have been many improvements. Fisher went on to thank the Pike County Fair Board for being strong partners and strong supporters over the years

Pictured above are members of Mike McCrory’s family who were on hand for the dedication.