Bill Parks kicked of the Senior Storytelling. He kept the crowd laughing, even as the rain threatened outside the pavilion. Stories, jokes and even some singing told tall tales throughout the afternoon. (T-G Photo by René A. Capley) [Click to enlarge]

There's lot of big things at the Bedford County Fair this year. There's a big Ferris wheel, Big Red, the massive steer, and yesterday, there were big tales being told by guests during Senior Citizens' Day.

The activities for the day were organized by Pat Finney with the assistance of her husband Bob. The day included bingo; a variety of old-fashioned contests such as watermelon seed spitting; a sponsored lunch; and, this year, storytelling.

"When I envisioned the event that was to highlight the day," said Finney, "I wanted to capture the stories of youth many of these folks alone remember. I wanted to hear about growing up in Bedford County, farms, schools and such."

What she got was not quite as historical as it was hysterical. Men and women recalled funny stories told by parents or events they participated in that were funny.

One sang, others told jokes and many recounted happenings with a humorous twist.

"This has been so much fun," said Barbara Troxler, one guest who secured the title of Egg Toss champion. "The whole day has just been fun."

James Scott, winner of the watermelon seed spitting contest, told tales from his days as a principal in Bedford County. Like Troxler, Scott said the day was a great deal of fun.

"The food was good," he said. "And the people were fun. I think this is a great kind of day."

Held under the pavilion area of the Ag Center, the guests were entertained by live music and plenty of bingo.

"We've held game after game," said Finney, "all with prizes. They've really enjoyed the games. We tried to pick things they would enjoy doing and bingo is always fun."

Though rain fell in torrents during part of the storytelling event, the audience laughed and applauded those brave enough to face the microphone. Bill Parks kicked off the events, in which even Fair chairman Judy Gambill participated.

Jimmy Woodson took the mike to tell stories of mules and his grandfather. He spoke of the memories that have lasted a lifetime from small things he and his grandfather shared, encouraging those present to always share their stories and life experiences with their grandchildren.

"It might not have been exactly what I thought it would be," said Finney, "but it was all such fun. We all enjoyed being together and sharing the experiences. It was a great day."

Tonight's events at the Bedford County Fair include a Smoker Truck and Tractor pull, the Open Beef Show, a bicycle competition and Bedford County Idol. Poultry awards will also be presented.

Friday kicks off with the Sheep shows, a lawn and garden tractor pull and the final competition of Bedford Idol. A pleasure horse show will also be held.