Diana Titus didn’t let a little rain and a broken arm stop her from enjoying a Saturday afternoon at the Ironton Catholic Community Charity Fair.

Saturday, May 27, 2000

Diana Titus didn’t let a little rain and a broken arm stop her from enjoying a Saturday afternoon at the Ironton Catholic Community Charity Fair.

In fact, the 6-year-old’s only trouble became figuring out which booth to visit first.

"That one’s scary –  you have to climb way up!" she exclaimed, cast extended in awe toward the Obstacle Slide, an air-filled obstacle-course mountain. "But, it’s fun – you get to slide at the end."

Despite inclement weather, the fair drew a crowd, and the exciting attractions far outweighed the minor inconvenience of a few rain showers.

Activities included children’s rides like the Robin’s Ride, Obstacle Slide, Karaoke, and, of course, good food.

"This year’s event is more fun, because the weather’s not as hot and the kids have been great," ride operator Jeremy Melick said.

Melick drove from Johnstown to help out with the fun and games, and this is his third year. "I just like coming down here," he said.

As novice singers on the stage entertained audiences in the food court section, others entertained themselves by winning prizes at various game booths. Even a few local pets got caught in the act, wagging happily alongside their two-legged companions.

In fact, kids of all ages – with and without tails – enjoyed the rides and games.

"It’s funny, because when the adults get on it, they’ll get stuck and keep sliding down the second obstacle," said Aaron Piatt, another ride operator who drove from Granville to help out.

"The kids like to race through the Obstacle Slide," Melick said. "When they get on, they pretty much keep coming back."

Another featured attraction was a Karaoke contest, the winner of which took home a cash prize of $50. Jordan Scott, 7, of Ironton, took the prize for her standout performance of Chuck Berry’s "Johnny B Goode."

For other fair-goers, the attraction is simply a chance to come home.

"I go to Eastern Kentucky University now, but I graduated from St. Joe," said Mike Rudmann, 21, as he handed tickets to eager children. "I’ve been here helping out the last two summers because it’s a lot of fun and it’s for a good cause."

The fair will continue through tonight and food booths will still be available during Monday’s big event, the Memorial Day Parade.