Columbiana County Fair opens today

LISBON - After months of preparation, fair officials are seeing all their hard work come to life as the 164th Columbiana County Fair kicks off today at 6 p.m.

Opening ceremonies will feature the traditional crowning of the 4-H king and queen prior to the annual antique tractor pull. The ceremonies also will feature a visit from Ohio State Fair Queen Kristen Free. Free was crowned in January and is traveling across the state in an attempt to visit all 88 county fairs.

Although the fair begins today, tomorrow will get the party started with a concert by Chuck Wicks and opening act Savannah Jack. Wicks is best known for his song "Stealing Cinderella," and his stint on "Dancing with the Stars" with girlfriend Julianne Hough. Opening act Savannah Jack features the musical abilities of Don Gatlin, Mike Ulvila and Jay Darby. Gatlin brings somewhat of a local edge to the group as he hails from nearby Beaver Falls, Pa.

Tickets for the show will be available until 3 p.m. today at the fair office. Prices range from $12 for track seats to $8 or $5 for grandstand seating. Those not able to make the concert will have other chances to get some live music enjoyment by visiting the Midway Stage and Picnic Area. Nashville recording artist Cheyenne West will perform from 5-8 p.m. daily at the picnic area. West is planning to release a video for her single "Read My Lipstick" this month to CMT and GAC. Other artists performing at the Midway stage include Kassie Simpson, Crazy Eddie, Mike Palm, Rus Stewart, Margaret Wade, Kross Creek, Lindsay Ketchum, The Blind Lemon Band, One Eternal, Canton Idol Review, Salem Square Wheels, Country Classic Line Dancers, Salem Jubilee Chorus and Funtime Cloggers. Times will be posted at the Midway Stage.

Those in the need of total destruction will have three opportunities to get their fix, with car demolition derbies Wednesday and Sunday, as well as the combine derby Sunday afternoon. If controlled mayhem isn't on your radar, then perhaps the Full Pull Productions Smoker Series, Open Truck and Tractor Pulls, or Tuff Truck Competition will perk your ears. The Smoker Series will roar out the gate Friday night, while local pullers will have an opportunity to show their stuff on Saturday. The inaugural Tuff Truck Competition will be Thursday night's main event.

More information about the fair can be picked up at the fair office from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.

rcoleman@mojonews.com