Lambs and cows and hogs, Oh my! It is that time of year again.

The Lawrence County Fair is here, and I am feeling like Dorothy.

Well, let me rephrase that before any smart-alecks comment on my masculinity. I know how the misplaced Kansas youth felt in the Land of Oz surrounded by animals of all sorts.

But our Oz lies eastward in Proctorville and, thankfully, no tornado is required to get there. The county land will showcase comparable family friendly wonders to behold.

From countless carnival booths to amusement rides to a variety of animals and entertainment, the fair offers a kaleidoscopic array of sights and sounds that would rival the mythical land of far away.

Looking for the yellow-brick road? Well, State Route 7 might apply if you consider the traffic cones and road construction that often line the way.

Want to stop at Emerald City? The multi-colored tents and campers dotting the landscape behind the fairground is close.

Flying monkeys? Well, just insert your favorite joke about all the politicians who are sure to be shaking hands and kissing babies.

And the wizard? In fact,

dozens of men and women are behind the curtains making the event happen. Fair board president Doug Clark and the other members of Lawrence County Agricultural Society work long and hard to make the event a success for the community and for the youth.

Some naysayers consider the fair an "Eastern Lawrence County" event. That could not, and should not be, farther from the truth.

Businesses from across the entire Tri-State sponsor the event and shell out big money to make some child's dreams come true when they sell their grand champion animal.

These boys and girls in 4-H work so hard on their projects and workshops that teach them valuable life skills.

They work equally hard to raise their chickens, pigs, cows, llamas, steer, goats and other livestock.

Growing up on a farm, I know how much hard work is involved. Yet, I still love farm animals. Uh, maybe it would be better to say I appreciate them. I would hate to have the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals breathing down my neck.

So, no,

we aren't in Kansas anymore. In fact, we never were. But it sure is good be right here in Lawrence County for fair week.

Michael Caldwell is the managing editor at The Ironton Tribune. He can be reached at (740) 532-1445 ext. 24 or by e-mail at mike.caldwell@irontontribune.com.