This morning’s unveiling of a 1,000 pound butter sculpture marked the unofficial start of the 2017 Pennsylvania Farm Show.
The sculpture, done by Jim Victor and Marie Pelton of Conshohocken, pays tribute to the history of environmental stewardship by dairy farmers. At the close of the show, the butter, which was donated by Land O’ Lakes in Carlisle, Cumberland County, will be transported to a Juniata County dairy farm where it will be run through a methane digester and converted into renewable energy for the farm.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, who was on hand for the unveiling,
says last year’s theme- “The Farm Show — Our Commonwealth’s Blue Ribbon Experience” -has been carried over to this year. The official opening ceremonies are set for Saturday morning.
Next Thursday is “Veterans and Active Military Service Members Day,” and includes an Army vs. Navy Cook-Off and a presentation honoring veterans who are farmers, called “Homegrown by Heroes.”
The bird exhibits are back this year after being left out last year because of concerns about avian flu. One of the first baby ducks or chicks hatched will be named for Penn State football coach James Franklin.
If you go to the Farm Show, take a camera. The popular photo contest is back, giving amateur photographers a chance to win money and get VIP treatment during next year’s event.
The show runs Saturday through January 13 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and January 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and parking is $15 in Farm Show lots. The Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center is easily accessible from nearby Interstate 81
All photos provided by the PA Farm Show.