In Memory

In loving memory of those who cared to make a difference . .

Richard Howard McClain August 7, 1935-August 10, 2022

Richard was born in Center Hill, Florida and moved to Sebring when he was 12 years old. Richard was a member of the Avon Park National Guard and was called to duty in May of 1951. This was the beginning of a 20 year Military Career serving in Germany, Greenland and Viet Nam. Joining the Highlands County Fair Board in 1982 and went on to serve 9 years as Fair Manager. He was involved in sports and helped organize events to help benefit the youth of Highlands County. Richard was President of the Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Show in 2003. In 2005 he was presented with the IAFE Heritage Award in 2005 and inducted into the Florida Federation of Fairs Hall of Fame.

Richard is survived by his wife Bette, 1 daughter, 2 stepchildren, 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, daughter, and stepson. Obituary is available at https://www.stephensonnelsonfh.com/obituary/richard-mcclain.

Joyce Covington—August 2022

“Our own beloved Joyce Covington has passed away. Joyce spent most of her career here at the Florida State Fair. She coordinated all our entertainment, community, and special events. Her passion for the fair industry and her Florida State Fair advocacy was a model for us all to follow. She was absolutely loved and cherished by all whom had the privilege to know her. “ Cheryl Flood, CEO Florida State Fair Authority

Following is from a presentation to Joyce by the Florida State Fair along with a crystal bowl.: “Today, I am honored to pay tribute to a very special lady, Joyce Covington, who has served the Florida State Fair for over 35 years. “Miss Joyce,” as she is affectionately known, began as a volunteer in the free entertainment area in 1979. Florida State Fair Joyce worked from 1981 – 1988 as a contract employee developing the free entertainment program that fills four Board Member Doyle stages. She also worked to coordinate senior days sponsored by GTE. In 1988, she began working nine months Carlton III and Joyce a year by traveling the state to promote the Florida State Fair. She did approximately 65 slide shows a year emCovington. phasizing “an Old Fashion Christmas” a production that was held annually at the Fairgrounds. In 1992, Joyce began working year-round preparing and overseeing the Christmas show. During this time, she also began representing the Florida State Fair for the National Tour Association, Brandon Chamber and the NESRA. Her involvement in the Florida State Fair has made her a legend in the fair business. In 2006, Joyce was promoted to Special Events Manager overseeing all the events in the Family Living Building, Florida Center and Special Events Building. Some of the events she oversees to this day are: Woodworking, County Events, Quilts, Sewing, Baking, 4-H Day, Hillsborough County School Exhibits, Craft Show, Tropical Fish Show, and the Horticulture exhibits. Joyce also developed the Wine Judging contest which is one of the most prestigious wine competitions in the country. She also coordinates the details of both the Governor ‘s Day and the Ag Woman of the Year luncheons. Joyce’s endless enthusiasm and passion for her job has garnered the respect and admiration of her countless friends and colleagues. .

Please help us honor and recognize our friends in the Fair industry who pass away during the year by sending their names and Fair affiliation to the Federation for inclusion in

the Resolutions passed at each year’s convention and also be included in the next issue of the newsletter. Please include the person’s affiliation with your Fair or company and years of service. Send to: floridafairs@gmail.com and

Resolutions Chairman Suzanne Holcomb

Suzanne@hillsboroughcountyfair.com

Brad & Sally Matchett & Family

on the loss of Brad’s father Michael “Danny” Matchett of Tavares, Florida February 12, 1945-September 24, 2022

Wanda & Randy Jones & Family

on the loss of their great grandson Eason Perry Jones of Lake City, Florida July 7, 2022-October 27, 2022

Becky Brashear & Family

on the loss of Becky’s brother Dente L. Brashear, Sr. of Frederick, Maryland July 11, 1952-October 6, 2022

Josh & Leann Knotts & Family

On the loss of Josh’s father Richard Harold Knotts of Washington, PA August 13, 1978-October 28, 2022

THE FAIRCRACKER

Florida Federation of Fairs & Livestock Shows, Inc. P.O. Box 368 Palmetto, FL 34220-0368 www.floridafairs.org

Federation of State and Provincial Association of Fairs of North America

Sponsor of “Merry Moo”

Florida Festivals and Events Association (FFEA)

International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE) www.fairsandexpos.com

National Independent Concessionaires Association (NICA) www.nicainc.org

Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA)