Welcome to the Missouri State Fair!

For me and many at the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Missouri State Fair begins a day (and even months) early. Although each of you are welcome to attend the fair Aug. 7-17, some of us have already arrived in Sedalia for festivities and to begin our daily duties for the 11-day event.

Tonight, my wife, Alisa, and I will be attending the Missouri State Fair Foundation Banquet at the Lowell Mohler Assembly Hall. I look forward to meeting many new people, seeing many old faces and learning all there is to learn about the State Fair.

Don't get me wrong - I have been to the State Fair with my family for many, many years. But as the Director of Agriculture and a State Fair Commissioner, I think that this may be a whole different ballgame. I look forward to every minute of it.

After tonight's event at the assembly hall, MDA's Deputy Director Matt Boatright and his wife have promised Alisa and I a moonlight cruise (by golf cart) and "learning" tour of the fairgrounds before the action begins tomorrow.

Earlier today, I had my briefing with the Missouri Highway Patrol - what a relief! Now, they know me, I know them and we can start off on the right foot.

As I awake bright and early tomorrow, Opening Day will brings lots of great entertainment, all you can eat corn dogs and funnel cake and many incredible ag shows that will peak anyone's interest. I encourage you to "GO 4 It!" this year at the Missouri State Fair. There is so much to do and see for the whole family.