Friday, opening day of the Rowan County Fair, is usually a special day. Entries are judged and final displays are set, animals begin to arrive just in time for the gates to open. Enthusiasm is high.

Not so this year. Unfortunately, the fresh flower displays and the produce were just past their prime when the doors did open Monday, but the displays will still be there. This year they are very impressive. When you get to the fair this week, give yourself plenty of time to look at the displays before you eat, ride or watch the pigs race.

A big thank you to all the farmers and the home growers who took time to grow, pick and clean their produce, plants and field crops for display so all of us can enjoy and be proud of the bounty of Rowan County can provide.

— Sue Davis

Salisbury