Tribune editorial staff

It is difficult to gauge something without a a means by which to measure it. When something is in its infancy, it is usually difficult to say if it is going to be a success or not.

Such is the case with the Tri-State Mega Festival & Fair, which will kick off tomorrow at the Ironton Commerce Center on South Third Street in Ironton. This is the first year for the event, but if the buzz and the quality of entertainment scheduled is any indication of how successful it is going to be, Ironton and Lawrence County should have an annual event that will attract thousands of people for years to come.

From June 4-8, the former Honeywell property will be transformed into a mini amusement park, complete with rides, vendors, games and more. The entertainment lined up for the event is top-notch as well.

Nationally known country acts such as the award-winning group Trick Pony, Grammy nominee Joe Nichols and up-and-comer Jennifer Hanson will perform. For the rock and pop fans, Sixpence None the Richer - noted for their hit single "Kiss ME" - and the KISS Army tribute band will perform. Also scheduled are numerous local and regional acts.

Other attractions such as a Wild West show, alligator wrestling and NASCAR displays, are sure to be crowd favorites.

Just like Summer Motion has helped boost Ashland's economy, we hope the Tri-State Mega Festival & Fair does the same for Ironton. Even if only half of the 500,000 people organizers estimate will attend the event come, Ironton and Lawrence County will profit because people will spend money in the city and county.

We urge all Lawrence countians to come out and support the Tri State Mega Festival & Fair and, at the same time, we invite our neighbors to join us in the celebration. No matter what your age, chances are you will find something to do.

With your support, we can assure Ironton and Lawrence County has an attraction for years to come.