Community fun at County Fair

Sarasota County 4-H member Camile Gehan, age 13, wasn’t at the Sarasota County Fair for the rides and roller coasters. She stood in the Houser Show Arena, grooming her cow Sunshine for the beef-breeding show taking place the following day.

“It’s fun. I like getting to groom her and getting her ready for the show,” said Gehan, who was involved in the show for the first time.

The skills on display at youth agricultural shows made up part of the scene at the Sarasota County Fair on Wednesday.

Held March 17-26 at the Robarts Arena the fair featured rides and attractions provided by Belle City Amusements — food stands from numerous independent vendors, face painting and magic shows, among other offerings.

“It’s a great atmosphere. Just a good time to get out,” said Ricky Rowles, who has been coming to the fair for about four years.

Gehan’s mother, Heather Gehan, said the fair was an excellent opportunity for young people to showcase their abilities.

— IAN SWABY

“Anne Friedland knows her business inside and out and has great follow through! Anne and her staff managed to do the impossible and calm my panic at the complexity of the purchasing and selling of properties! The amount of paperwork and foresight needed to process the properties through the system is incredible and these ladies were able to do this with panache!! Kudos for jobs well done!!” — Jo, Bradenton