United Methodists at State Fair for 95 Years
Written: 7/14/2010
Anniversaries are to be celebrated and Maynard Ave UMC, Capitol Area North District, has a pretty unique Outreach Hospitality Ministry to celebrate. We are entering our 95th Year as “Maynard at the Fair” during the 2010 Ohio State Fair. Since 1916, when a few church members decided to serve soup, sandwiches, pie, and coffee, we have been a presence on the midway of the Ohio State Fair. We provide a place for good, home-cooked food, fellowship, and a shaded rest for the weary fair-goers. Since we are open 24hours per day, we also serve those who earn their living by traveling with the games, rides, and attractions at the fair. And those who stay overnight with their animals or who work on the grounds find their way to our tent also. It is a big job that requires many volunteer helpers. Last year alone there were over 100 volunteers from 13 different faith communities that chose to help this ministry continue.
Our 40’ x 60’ green and white striped tent rises from the asphalt on Monday morning, July 19. It is something to behold! We always need volunteers to help at this event. Many hands make the work lighter for all of us! From July 19 until we open for business on Weds July 28, there will be someone at the tent from 9 AM – 8 PM. There is always something for our volunteers to do. If you like to hammer, nail, wire, or paint, please stop by. We are located just east of the big round building known as the “Taste of Ohio”. Many people know it as the home of the “Butter-cow”.
During the fair, July 28 through Aug 8, we serve up food 24 hours a day. We need volunteers to help serve food and beverages as we reach out to those in attendance.
After the fair, everything has to come down and be packed away. What took nine days to re-create must now come down in just 24 hours…or it belongs to the State Fair! Extra hands to help with this would be a wonderful gift.
I invite you to come, volunteer, and share the joy by being a part of this Hospitality Ministry during our 95th Year at the Fair! If you cannot volunteer but make it to the Ohio State Fair, be sure to stop by the big green and white tent for food and fellowship! Your support will be appreciated!