North Carolina is full of talented people. I know, because I work with a bunch of them. But I can also attest to this fact because of the 13 State Fairs that I’ve experienced. A walk through the Education Building, the fine arts section in the Kerr Scott Building or the Arts & Crafts Building and it’s apparent that there is a “Whole Lotta” talent in this state.
The intricate woodwork, amazing Lego creations, beautiful artwork and tiny stitches on quilts and smocked dresses all point to the care that North Carolinians put into their hobbies. Not to mention the green thumbs that produce beautiful blooms and gardens, giant pumpkins, shiny red apples and more in the flower and garden show or the horticulture competitions.
According to Nikki Berryman, the competitive entries coordinator for the Fair, the State Fair ordered 28,685 ribbons this year. Of those, 906 are rosettes, the large fancy ribbons that go to Best in Show and other special categories. Of course, not all of these ribbons will be awarded, depending on the number of entries and other factors.
I tell you all this to say that you can’t win a blue ribbon or the coveted purple Best in Show ribbon if you don’t enter the competitions. You can click here to check out the premium book and find a contest to enter. You can either print out your own entry form, or you can register online. There’s no limit on the number of contests you can enter.
Canning in the news
If you’ve been gardening, you may want to try your hand at canning. There are lots of canning categories to enter. WRAL had a segment on canning on the news this week, and the Fayetteville Observer had an article about canning as well. If you are hoping to win a blue ribbon, be sure to check out the criteria that judges are looking for before you start your canning process.
Good luck!
