A moment in time NJ State Fair snapshot

They say you can't rewind time-but Sussex County seems to have found a way to slow it down a bit-at least during the ten days of the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show/NJ State Fair. The Fair, held annually in the beginning of August, has a long heritage in the community. For the past seventy years,  the Sussex County agricultural community has set aside ten days to celebrate their heritage, showcase their accomplishments and come together to produce an event unlike any other-a County Fair rich in history, family entertainment and good old fashioned fun!

The Fair officially opens to the sound of a rooster crow which seems to magically cast a spell over the agricultural section of the Fairgrounds, transporting exhibitors,visitors, residents back to a time when life's rhythm, purpose and joy were far easier to discern and drink in.

With livestock barns filled with barn animals raised by local farm families and 4H club members, the Fairgrounds comes to life with a symphony of sound. The livestock and other 4H exhibits represent the best of the 4H members' project year. They're brought to the SC Fairgrounds in Augusta for exhibit, competition and pleasure. Chicken, sheep, cows, swine and goats that have been bred, born and raised by Sussex County 4H members are housed in several barn buildings which were erected thanks to the sweat equity, fundraising and careful management of generations past. The animals are shown in the livestock arena and judged by professional livestock judges throughout the week. Each species of farm animal are judged, awarded ribbons, trophies and premiums based on their quality, condition and breed characteristics as evaluated by the judge. After the Fair,  the animals return to the farm, where they will be cared for throughout the year. Some are bred to carry on or improve the overall quality of the farm's livestock production.
To the young exhibitors, the Fair is a culmination of a year's effort. 4H-er's are delighted to compete, learn, showcase and improve in their project area-with an eye on next year's event.  Anticipation of participating with their club members in "The Fair" offers a sometimes needed "incentive" to rise to the challenge of early morning feedings, barn cleaning and icy winter days-when it would be much nicer to stay snug under the covers.

Seasoned agriculturalists also have the opportunity to compete in equestrian events, grain and forage exhibits, flower and vegetable competitions, baking and canning competitions and more. Traditional and modern Home Ec. exhibits like: crafting, quilting and needle work round out the offerings in the Richards building- a large building erected for showcasing the talents of the community. Visitors have the additional opportunity to view and purchase photography and art submitted by community residents who capture the essence and beauty of Sussex County through their art. Many professional photographers and artists call Sussex County home. The diverse natural beauty of the region is a constant source of inspiration to those with creative talent.

The Fair ended on Sunday August 15th with a long overdue rain. As I made my way back to the field where I had parked my car, my attention was drawn to a young dad and his daughter. These Dairy exhibitors seemed impervious to the rainfall as they headed to the livestock trailer carrying trophies and tack. The young girl's blonde ponytail swung in synchronized motion to the tail of the young black and white calf trailing behind her on a lead.  I caught up to the trio in time to overhear her animated monologue about her time in the arena as her dad patiently listened and to hear his recollection of when, as a boy, he and his siblings showed their livestock at the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show. In that moment, as the rain fell on the pair, time paused and life and family was once what is used to be-they say all things change...but for a moment it was refreshing to know some things don't have to.

We live in a crazy, high-speed world that is too often chaotic and demanding. The pressures of the day don't escape farmers and their family, in fact, they can be more impactful in some ways. But wise folk know that heritage, roots and tradition can't be substituted or replaced-it's a treasure, a legacy and something worth preserving.
Thank you to the Sussex County Agricultural Community and residents for your community spirit, volunteer hours and passion. For seventy years your efforts to present an event that preserves our agricultural heritage and showcase the best of community and human spirit are a much needed and appreciated gift to fellow residents and visitors alike.

Sussex Naturally writer and founder of Dandelion Creative Marketing and Creative Services Group,  Nancy Hreha, has been a long time exhibitor, supporter and active participant in the NJ State Fair/Sussex County Farm and Horse Show.  She is a strong advocate of agriculture in New Jersey and specializes in agrimarketing and agritourism.

Hydroponic agriculture+Arthur&Friends=Sussex County Success story

What happens when a "small seed of an idea" is planted in a resource rich environment and nurtured with passion and dedication? Fantastic results with real benefits-in this case-Arthur and Friends.  
The IDEA: Giving our disabled community the workforce skills and training they need to be productive and produce a marketable commodity which benefits the larger community.  
The SOLUTION:  
*Make use of existing-though underutilized-greenhouse facilities through implementing a hydroponic production-growing plants without soil-operation which will grow marketable products that meet consumer demand for locally produced foods. 
*Equip the disabled population with specific skills and training needed to not only grow the produce, but also a business. 
*Welcome community involvement, support and exposure in a way that educates, sparks dialogue and builds a bridge between the disabled workforce and business.
*Meet consumer demand for safe, locally produced products for their table.  


The RESULT: Arthur and Friends-hydroponic agriculture which is actively producing a varied selection of fresh greens supplying local restaurants and family tables-year round. What began as an idea has developed into a model which can be reproduced and has attracted the interest of urban agriculturalists and environmentalists- who are seeking innovative ways to increase food production and feed a growing population.Hydroponic gardening is productive, green and space efficient-and offers a viable means to address the challenge.

How does it work? Recirculation of nutrient rich water in a climate controlled environment means little to no water waste, maximization of yield and- well- happy plants, which can supply a steady source of nutrition in areas where traditional agricultural practices are impractical or impossible.
Arthur and Friends is located in the greenhouse at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, NJ. The location is ideally situated- allowing workers easy access to public transportation- so they can independently get to work. The SC Fairgrounds is also a familiar location to many in the TriState Region. Best know as the home to New Jersey's largest annual agricultural fair- The NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show, the Sussex County Fairgrounds hosts over 225,000 Fair visitors each year. With a full schedule of family fun ALL SEASON events, the Sussex County Fairgrounds is a popular destination throughout the region. The NJ State Fair®/Sussex County Farm and Horse Show was established as-and continues to be-a hub to the larger Sussex County Agricultural community-providing agricultural education, participation and plain old fun for generations of community residents and visitors alike. Arthur and Friends welcomes visitors as well as shoppers. All are invited to stop by and learn how hydroponics works or select from the wide assortment of freshly harvested greens for the family table.

The Sussex County Board of Agriculture recently honored Arthur and Friends, for their innovative contribution to the "mosaic of agriculture" in the Garden State. The changes in NJ Agriculture and the challenges faced by the industry are obvious to all. As the NJ Agricultural landscape continues to reshape itself, the SCBOA embraces the small operation whose innovation, passion and contributions are helping to address those changes and keep New Jersey Agriculture viable. Arthur's inspiring and heart felt acceptance remarks are a reminder to all-"Believe in your dreams, never-never give up-keep believing". Congratulations to Arthur and all his friends for the dream, vision and dedication to make it happen.




To learn more about Arthur and Friends check out the You Tube video link

Sussex County Fairgrounds goes to the Dogs...And they love it!

OVER 1,200 DOGS COMPETE IN THE 2009 54th annual RAMAPO KENNEL CLUB SHOW

For close to a decade the Sussex County Fairgrounds has been the venue of choice for the Ramapo Kennel Club's three day dog show event. Why? Show Chairman Jeffery Ball sites the beautiful setting of the Fairgrounds, its cleanliness and its consistent ability to provide comfortable facilities for dogs, dog owners, exhibitors and vendors as the reasons the Club returns year after year. "The Sussex Fairgrounds is not just animal friendly, but they are animal experienced" Ball said."That makes a big difference to us.
The Fairgrounds is home for NJ's largest agricultural fair-The NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show. During the ten day event exhibitors bring poultry, rabbits, and livestock of all description to compete in a variety of breed shows and classes. The diversity of species would impress even Noah! All animals are Vet checked upon arrival, then given comfortable accommodations-fresh bedding, plenty of clean water and lots of "entertainment" watching Fair visitors pass by. The animals are supervised by owners and volunteer staff and Vet tended if necessary throughout their stay. Over 225,000 visitors annually visit the Fair. For many, the NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show is their only opportunity to see, touch and learn about agriculture- up close and hands on. The Fairgrounds' All Season schedule includes various animal events as well.

 Event participants, like the Ramapo Kennel Club, can rely on the Sussex County Fairground's expertise in providing a safe, enjoyable event venue for their competitive exhibition needs. All Season events are open to the public and posted on the New Jersey State Fair website: www.njstatefair.org.

Dog Trainer, owner, handler, breeder or dog lover...mark your calendar for the  the Ramapo Kennel Club event in 2010. For more information on RKC activities and events, please visit their web site: www.ramapokennelclub.com

Sussex Naturally congratulates all winners of the 54th All Breed Dog Show and Obedience Trial and Rally Trial, sponsored by the Ramapo Kennel Club and hosted at the Sussex County Fairgrounds.


Photos: Nancy Hreha  all rights reserved 

Barn Quilt Project underway in Sussex County

Adorned by a hand painted quilt pattern, the Sussex County Farmer's Market is now part of the NJ Barn Quilt project.

The Barn Quilt Project in New Jersey is a new project coordinated by volunteers of the New Jersey Museum of Agriculture.
This project is designed to celebrate New Jersey’s agricultural heritage, highlighting farms across the state with beautiful quilt blocks.These barn quilts will draw attention to the unique architecture and history of New Jersey Barns and other agriculture related buildings, and promote education about New Jersey’s strong Agriculture legacy to the general public.

The beautiful pattern selected for the Sussex County Farmer's Market was skillfully hand painted by Lauren Brodhecker of Brodhecker Farm. In addition to the Barn Quilt pattern which adorns the SC Farmer's Market, Lauren has hand painted a second quilt pattern which will soon be displayed at the family's farm in Hampton Township. Brodhecker Farm is one of the largest fully operational farms in Sussex County and has been in operation for over 40 years.

The pattern chosen for the Sussex Farmer's Market is one of many available through the program.  Each pattern is registered to a single agricultural entity, and will not be repeated. Ultimately, barn quilt patterns will adorn farms, farmer's markets and barns across New Jersey, designating their participation in the program. Plans are currently underway to publish a travel guide making it easy for all to experience and enjoy the architectural and historic beauty of New Jersey's agricultural treasures.
The pattern chosen for the newest addition to the SC Fairgrounds-the SC Farmer's Market building- is most appropriate. "Country Roads" serves as a reminder of the generations of farmers who came together to establish the Fairgrounds and the NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show. The annual 10 day fair event is still a highlight event for farmers, 4H'ers and the community. The NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show is the largest agricultural fair in the State.
 The Sussex Fairgrounds also hosts a full season schedule of events in addition to the Fair; equestrian competitions, livestock shows and competitions, food and music events, arts and craft events, family fun and community events fill the calendar. They say, "There's always something fun happening at the Sussex County Fairgrounds"-and they're right!  Plan your family fun weekend at www.njstatefair.org.

Learn more about the Barn Quilt project at: http://www.njbarnquilts.com/home

Look what Sussex County has cooked up-a food lover's weekend to remember!

Just a short ride from NYC, Philadelphia or Central Jerz Sussex County is a world away from the everyday.  

Plan your weekend food adventure- 

Sept 19 & 20.

The fun begins as you travel the winding roads and major roadways to your destination. Enjoy the scenic beauty of farms, fields and mountains.  Check out the local farm stands and grab some  "just picked" for snacking or taking home. Pack a cooler or mark a return route-but don't miss out on this season's harvest.

Can't find what you're looking for? No worries! Head straight to the Sussex County Farmer's Market located at the beautiful Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta. Easily accessible from Route 15, 565 and 206, The Market opens at 10 every Saturday and offers the best of Sussex Fresh all under one roof- you'll love the variety of locally produced and grown products, proudly presented the members and producers of the Sussex County Board of Agriculture.
From handcrafted goat's milk soap to homemade pies and more, the Farmer's Market at the SC Fairgrounds is a Saturday destination.


If Strudel, Knockwurst, Black Forest Cake, German beer and polka music are more your thing...you don't need the passport-just set the GPS and head to the 23rd annual OCTOBERFEST at Crystal Springs Golf resort in Hamburg.

Octoberfest @ Crystal Springs starts at noon and ends at 9pm.
Saturday 9.19 only.
Lumberjack contests, pig roast, pie eating contest, and plenty of kid friendly activities- all part of the fun in this beautiful resort setting.Crystal Springs Golf resort is a premier golf destination offering a variety of courses for play and amenities for relaxation.Hotel packages are available.

Sunday morning breakfast? Your choices are plentiful -from diners to cafes, Sussex County eateries offer hearty country breakfasts served up in some unique places like- the S&S Diner in Franklin- known for creating some of the best waffles and pancakes around.
OR
Everything Homemade in Lafayette Village-offers- well- everything... homemade!

Warm, tasty baked oatmeal dressed with sweet cream, dried fruits and nuts... home made muffins...zucchini bread stuffed with cream cheese-and an assortment of menu items and other mouthwatering delights are prepared fresh daily. Everything Homemade is well known for its excellent food and friendly service. You'll enjoy the quaint, country cafe setting.

Wrap up your food event weekend with a return to the Sussex County Fairgrounds for the best grilled food event ever: Champion of the Grill.  Our community's  top grill masters compete for bragging rights and the title of "CHAMPION OF THE GRILL". Heaping portions of food, fun and entertainment are all on the menu at this annual event, sponsored by the Sussex County Chamber of Commerce.

Of course an event this big could only be held at Sussex County's premier outdoor venue-The Sussex County Fairgrounds-where there's always something fun happening!  Free and ample parking, contemporary facilities and plenty of space for any size gathering, make the Sussex County Fairgrounds a perfect place to for any event or activity.

Spend the weekend in Sussex County-Head home happy®!

Sussex Fresh-The Farmer's Market at the Sussex Fairgrounds

Fresh is better. Better tasting and better for you...and you won't find a fresher selection of locally grown/locally produced products than those coming directly from the farm.

THE SUSSEX COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS- Sussex County's premier venue for outdoor entertainment-is also home to one of the county's premier Farmer's Markets.  

Open every Saturday, the Market is staffed by local farmers offering "fresh from the field" vegetables, flowers and fruits, along with locally produced meats, cheese, pies and more.

All that variety and goodness makes the Sussex County Farmer's Market a one stop destination for Sussex County Fresh.  

The Market is open from 10-3, every Saturday thru November.   

The Sussex County Fairgrounds is located on Plains Road Augusta, NJ.  It is easily accessed from Route 565 or 206.   

Exploring Sussex County this weekend?   A stop at the Farmer's Market delicious must.

*To learn more about agriculture in Sussex County click on the link to the Sussex County Board of Agriculture in the "sites to see" section of this blog)