NORWICH – The Chenango County Fair, opening today, is dedicated to serving the community with a week of laughter, excitement, games and food – all while highlighting the importance of agriculture in upstate New York.

To show the appreciation and respect to those who have helped make the fair possible, the Chenango County Agricultural Society elects a couple from the area who have been essential in making the fair a reality every year.

For the 2006 celebration, Albert and Judy Ives have been named Mr. and Mrs. Chenango County Fair.

The Ives’ have been married for 45 years and have devoted their life to the farming industry. Both Albert and Judy have contributed to the county fair in a number of ways.

This year’s Mr. Chenango has been a Chenango Agricultural Society board member for over 30 years, serving as chairman for the livestock community, vice-president, and president.