With the Medina County Fair taking place this week from Aug. 1 through the 7, it is sure to be bustling around here. Year after year, I have made my way to the fairgrounds to take in all the activities and displays, and this year is no exception. I hope that you and your family will make it there as well.

County fairs have a special significance in our state, serving as a true reflection of what Ohio is all about. Aside from the shows, food and other attractions, these fairs are an excellent way for our community to support our young people who participate in 4-H and FFA programs. That's why I make it there every year and purchase a hog in support of our local agriculture.

Many people do not realize that 4-H originated here in Ohio, but it is no wonder with the importance that agriculture has played to our state's economy for so many years. In fact, more than half of Ohio's land is considered prime farmland. Today, agribusiness is one of the most prominent industries in Ohio, contributing $93 billion to the state economy. Whether it's because of our Swiss cheese or some Campbell's soup made from Ohio tomatoes, agribusiness provides jobs to one out of every seven Ohioans.

The Ohio House continues to seek ways of promoting agriculture for our state. The Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee is one of the busiest at the statehouse, having met more often and passed more bills than three separate committees during the previous General Assembly.

In order for Ohio to continue to benefit from agriculture, we need to get our young people involved and interested in it at a young age. 4-H and FFA play a significant role in this. I encourage you to watch a livestock show or stop by the many displays of craftsmanship, sewing, and art at the fair.

While most of us are out on vacations or relaxing this summer, many of Medina County's youngsters are working hard to ensure our fair can be one of the most enjoyable in the state. Day after day, they are working with their animals, quizzing themselves on all they need to know to be successful, and finding new ways of teaching the public something that we do not already know.

By attending the fair, we are supporting Medina County while also honoring our state's rich agricultural heritage. Ohio is blessed with favorable farming conditions that we are continuing to capitalize on. Regardless of the hot weather, I hope you'll join me at the fair to celebrate the success of this industry and our young people.