Today, July 4, marks the 249th anniversary for the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Actually, the Revolutionary War was 15-months old when 56 patriot leaders met in Philadelphia to consider a formal declaration seeking independence from Great Britain. The fighting continued for six long years until 1781. Two years later, in 1783, under an agreement signed in Paris, the 13 American colonies became a nation, which remains unbroken.
The war was costly both in financial resources and for those who lost their lives. More than 25,000 died from battle, disease or in captivity as prisoners of war during a time when the nation’s population was only 2.4 million.
On this day known throughout America as Independence Day, we have much to be thankful for and, despite our divisions and unresolved issues, we are the envy of the world. As a broadcaster said last year, the world’s young people do not desire to be like Russians, Chinese or North Koreans; they aspire to have a way of life like Americans.
Meanwhile, in Hutchinson, the pace is quickening two months shy of the opening of the 111th Kansas State Fair.
Boots and Bling, the 20th annual event to raise funds for the betterment of the Kansas State Fairgrounds, is set for August 9 in the Meadowlark Building. We can say with certainty there is something for everyone at Boots and Bling from food and refreshments, a silent and live auction, followed with dancing as long as the audience wishes to “cut a rug.”
We could call Boots and Bling the final push prior to the fair’s opening September 5 at 11 a.m.
We thank businesses and organizations who are stepping up with donations of items for the two auctions which includes everything from a chain saw to car details and a pair of cowboy boots.
Tables of 10 and several levels of sponsorships are available. For further information, please contact the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation at info@ksfgf.org or by calling 620-615-7388.
Also, a reminder for those competing in various categories of competition at the fair ranging from food to livestock, you may want to check the fair’s website at kansasstatefair.com to determine exact deadlines for entry.
This time of year, I like to conclude this column with the words “see you at the fair.”
This time around, let us say “see you at Boots and Bling first and then the Kansas State Fair.”
Enjoy the summer.
-Richard Shank
About the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Founded in 2003, KFF’s mission is to further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds with a vision of inspiring excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. The Foundation exists to enrich the unforgettable memories and traditions people experience only at the Kansas State Fair and at the 500+ events on the Fairgrounds year-round.
