The Logan County Agricultural Society, also known as the Senior Fair Board, held a detailed meeting on Wednesday night as they began preparations for the 2025 Logan County Fair.
This year’s event is especially significant, marking the 175th anniversary of the county fair.
The Logan County Agricultural Society, responsible for overseeing the fairgrounds, is led by President Rick Thomas, Vice President Jay Ackley, Treasurer Kris Copenhaver, and Secretary Kelsey Cummins.
Under their leadership, the board is working hard to ensure the upcoming fair is a memorable celebration of the community’s agricultural history and accomplishments.
During the meeting, members discussed plans to make the milestone fair an event that reflects the tradition and growth of the fair over the years.
The board, consisting of members serving staggered terms across various townships, is committed to making the 2025 fair one for the history books.
Current Board Members:
2023 – 2025 Term:
- Ken Foreman, Bokescreek
- Kris Copenhaver, City of Bellefontaine
- Zeb Winner, Harrison Township
- VACANT, Bloomfield Township
- Eric Escamilla, Lake Township
- Xavier Winner, At-Large
- Emily Henry, At-Large
- Jesse Nichols, At-Large
- Eric Karn, Jefferson Township
- Daric McClintick, Honorary Member
2024 – 2026 Term:
- Rick Thomas, Liberty Township
- VACANT, McArthur Township
- Scott Jackson, Miami Township
- Craig Warne, Monroe Township
- Jay Ackley, Perry Township
- Skip Jackson, Pleasant Township
- Cory Godwin, At-Large
- Kyle Ackley, At-Large
- Kim Cayot, At-Large
- Greg Berry, Honorary Member
2025 – 2027 Term:
- VACANT, Union Township
- Shannon Reese, Washington Township
- Brad Cummins, Zane Township
- T.J. Lyden, Richland Township
- Ryland Eades, Rushcreek Township
- Kelsey Cummins, At-Large
- Ed Corwin, At-Large
- Anthony Hess, At-Large
- VACANT, Stokes Township
- Fran Meister, Honorary Member
During the meeting, Shelley Kneece, Director of Logan County Veteran’s Services, notified the board that the annual Veteran Luncheon traditionally held on the fairgrounds will instead take place across the street at the senior center for various reasons.
This change is expected to make the event more accessible for veterans and their families.
Jr. Fair representative Maddy Hamm also reminded the board about the annual “Stuff the Trailer” food drive, a collaborative effort with Farm Credit Services.
The drive benefits local families in need and brings a scholarship for the Jr. Fair board.
Hamm expressed gratitude for the board’s support of the initiative, which is an important part of the fair’s community outreach.
Logan County Commissioner Mike Yoder provided an update on infrastructure improvements, announcing that the Commissioners will be funding the installation of new fencing in the “Back 40” area of the fairgrounds.
The fencing project, not to exceed $75,000, will also include a survey not exceeding $2,500.
Yoder emphasized that the new fencing along South Main Street and in the “Back 40” area must be completed by the start of the annual fair, scheduled for July 6th through the 12th.
Thomas talks about the changes to the grounds:
In other discussions, the board committed to five more years of horse racing at the fair.
They are also exploring estimates for adding a kitchen and bathrooms to the show barn to enhance the fairgrounds’ functionality, generate additional income, and allow for year-round use.
The board also discussed exciting plans to rebrand the entire fairgrounds, including updates to the fairgrounds’ infrastructure, a logo change, new landscaping, and much more.
While discussions are still in the early stages, the board is enthusiastic about refreshing the fairgrounds and celebrating the 175th anniversary in a meaningful way.
