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Preble County Fair joins fight against food insecurity in Ohio

Preble County Fair Steps Up in the Battle Against Childhood Cancer

In the heart of rural Ohio, where the scent of fresh hay and carnival treats fills the air each summer, the Preble County Fair has long been a cornerstone of community life. This year, however, the fair is taking on a new role that extends far beyond livestock shows and midway rides. Organizers have announced that the 2023 Preble County Fair is officially joining the nationwide fight against childhood cancer, partnering with prominent organizations to raise awareness, funds, and hope for families affected by this devastating disease. This initiative marks a significant shift for the fair, transforming it from a simple agricultural celebration into a platform for advocacy and support, reflecting a growing trend among county fairs across the United States to engage in social causes.

The decision to join the fight stems from a deeply personal story within the Preble County community. Fair board president Emily Thompson shared during a recent press conference that the inspiration came from her own family's experience. "Two years ago, my niece was diagnosed with leukemia at just five years old," Thompson recounted, her voice steady but emotional. "Watching her go through treatments, the hospital stays, and the uncertainty—it changed everything for us. We realized that childhood cancer doesn't discriminate; it can touch any family, anywhere. As a fair that's all about bringing people together, we knew we had to do something." Thompson's story is not unique in Preble County, where several families have faced similar battles, prompting a grassroots movement to integrate cancer awareness into the fair's programming.

This partnership aligns the Preble County Fair with the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a leading nonprofit dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research and supporting affected families. Founded in 2000 by Alexandra "Alex" Scott, a young girl who started selling lemonade to raise money for her own cancer treatments, ALSF has grown into a national force, having funded over 1,000 research projects and provided assistance to thousands of families. By joining forces with ALSF, the fair aims to channel the energy of its attendees—estimated at over 50,000 annually—into tangible contributions. "We're excited to bring the spirit of Alex's story to Preble County," said Liz Scott, Alex's mother and co-executive director of ALSF. "Fairs like this are perfect venues for community-driven fundraising because they embody joy, resilience, and togetherness—qualities that are essential in the fight against childhood cancer."

The fair's involvement will manifest in several innovative ways throughout the event, scheduled from July 29 to August 5 this year. One of the highlights is the introduction of "Lemonade Lane," a dedicated section of the fairgrounds featuring lemonade stands operated by local youth groups, schools, and 4-H clubs. Proceeds from these stands will go directly to ALSF, with volunteers sharing stories of childhood cancer survivors and educating fairgoers about the disease. Organizers anticipate raising at least $10,000 through this initiative alone, building on similar efforts at other fairs that have collectively contributed hundreds of thousands to the cause.

Beyond fundraising, the fair is incorporating educational components to spread awareness. Daily workshops and seminars will be held in the fair's community tent, covering topics such as early detection signs of childhood cancers, the importance of research funding, and ways families can support one another. Guest speakers, including pediatric oncologists from nearby Cincinnati Children's Hospital, will provide insights into the latest advancements in treatments like immunotherapy and targeted gene therapies. These sessions are designed to be accessible, with interactive elements for children and families, ensuring that the message resonates across all ages.

Entertainment at the fair is also getting a charitable makeover. The grandstand events, typically featuring demolition derbies and tractor pulls, will include special nights dedicated to cancer awareness. On "Fight Night," scheduled for August 2, attendees are encouraged to wear yellow—the color symbolizing childhood cancer awareness—and participate in a candlelight vigil honoring survivors and remembering those lost. Country music artist and cancer advocate Jason Aldean has been invited to perform a benefit concert, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting ALSF. Aldean, who has personal connections to the cause through his own family's experiences, expressed enthusiasm in a statement: "Music has the power to heal and unite, and I'm honored to be part of this effort in Preble County."

The fair's agricultural roots are not being overlooked in this new endeavor. Livestock auctions, a staple of county fairs, will feature a "Bid for Hope" segment where buyers can pledge additional donations for each animal sold. Local farmers and businesses have already committed to matching funds, amplifying the impact. Additionally, the fair's junior fair program, which involves hundreds of young participants showcasing their projects, will include a new category for community service projects related to cancer support. This not only educates the next generation but also instills values of empathy and activism.

Community response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Local businesses, from feed stores to diners, are stepping up as sponsors, offering in-kind donations and promotional support. The Preble County Sheriff's Office is even organizing a "Cops for a Cure" booth, where officers will interact with families while collecting donations. Residents like longtime fair attendee Mark Reynolds see this as a natural evolution. "The fair has always been about more than just fun—it's about our community coming together," Reynolds said. "Now, we're extending that to help kids who need it most. It's inspiring."

This initiative is part of a broader movement among county fairs to address pressing social issues. In recent years, fairs in states like Iowa, Texas, and California have partnered with organizations fighting everything from hunger to mental health crises. For Preble County, the focus on childhood cancer is particularly poignant, given that the disease affects about 15,000 children under 19 in the U.S. each year, according to the American Cancer Society. Survival rates have improved dramatically over the decades—now around 85% for many types—but challenges remain, including access to cutting-edge treatments and the long-term effects on survivors.

Organizers are mindful of the emotional weight of the topic and are ensuring that the fair remains a place of joy. "We don't want to overshadow the fun," Thompson emphasized. "This is about blending celebration with purpose. Families can enjoy the rides, the food, the shows, and know that their participation is making a difference." To that end, the fair is introducing family-friendly activities like a "Hope Balloon Release" and art stations where kids can create messages of encouragement for pediatric patients.

Looking ahead, the Preble County Fair plans to make this an annual commitment, potentially expanding partnerships to include other cancer-focused groups like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Thompson envisions a ripple effect: "If we can inspire other fairs to join the fight, imagine the impact. One lemonade at a time, one community at a time, we can change the world for these kids."

As the gates open this summer, the Preble County Fair will stand as a beacon of hope amid the Ferris wheels and funnel cakes. It's a reminder that even in the simplest of settings, profound change can begin. For families touched by childhood cancer, this isn't just a fair—it's a fight they're no longer facing alone. The community of Preble County is rallying, proving that when rural America unites, the possibilities are endless.

In delving deeper into the motivations behind this partnership, it's worth exploring the broader context of childhood cancer in Ohio. The state ranks among the top in the nation for pediatric cancer incidences, with institutions like Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus leading research efforts. Yet, rural areas like Preble County often face barriers to specialized care, including long travel distances and limited resources. By bringing awareness directly to the fairgrounds, organizers are bridging that gap, making information and support more accessible to those who might otherwise feel isolated.

Personal stories from the community further illustrate the urgency. Take the case of the Harlan family, whose son Jacob battled neuroblastoma for three years before entering remission. "The fair was one of the few places we could go as a family during his treatment," mother Sarah Harlan shared. "Now, seeing it become a hub for this cause—it's like coming full circle." Jacob, now 10, will be a junior ambassador at the fair, helping at the lemonade stands and sharing his journey to inspire others.

The economic aspect cannot be ignored either. Fundraising at events like county fairs has proven highly effective, often surpassing expectations due to the high foot traffic and communal spirit. ALSF reports that similar partnerships have generated millions nationwide, funding breakthroughs such as new clinical trials for rare pediatric tumors. In Preble County, the goal is not just monetary; it's about fostering a culture of giving that endures beyond the fair week.

Volunteers are at the heart of this effort. Over 200 locals have signed up to staff booths, organize events, and promote the cause on social media. Training sessions have emphasized sensitivity, ensuring that interactions with fairgoers are supportive rather than overwhelming. "We're here to listen, to share, and to help," said volunteer coordinator Lisa Grant. "Many of us have our own connections to cancer, and this is our way of giving back."

As the fair evolves, it maintains its traditional charm. The aroma of deep-fried delights, the cheers from the rodeo arena, and the pride in blue-ribbon exhibits remain unchanged. Yet, woven into this tapestry is a thread of purpose, a commitment to something greater. The Preble County Fair's entry into the fight against childhood cancer exemplifies how local traditions can adapt to modern challenges, creating lasting impact one summer at a time.

In conclusion, this year's fair is more than an event—it's a movement. By joining forces with ALSF and mobilizing the community, Preble County is setting an example for others to follow. As families gather under the Ohio sun, they'll not only create memories but also contribute to a future where childhood cancer is a thing of the past. The fight continues, and Preble County is all in.

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[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/preble-county-fair-joins-fight-191824438.html ]