The annual Allen Parish Fair opened its midway on Wednesday, November 16, at 6 p.m. and will close its 2022 run on Saturday, November 19. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Family Night at 6 p.m.
Ryder
The board has named Fred Ryder as grand marshal of the parade. Lineup will begin Friday, November 18, at 9:15 a.m. The parade will roll down the streets of Oberlin at 10 a.m.
Ryder is married to Syble Ryder. They have two children, Falon Ryder and Jake Ryder. He worked at ALC for 27 years as the AS&R foreman. Before that he worked as a diesel mechanic with John Deere.
He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Blue Bayou Drainage Board and served the fair board for over 25 years.
Ryder enjoys gardening and spending time with family and friends.
Turner
This year’s fair is dedicated to former fair association member Margie Nell Turner. The mother of two sons, Kevin V. Turner and Keith Lee Turner, and one daughter, Kim Bennett, she was married to her husband Virgil for 56 years. She had seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A retired registered nurse, she enjoyed cooking and spending time with her family.
Fair info
This year’s theme is Allen Parish Fair – Stepping into the future, but not forgetting our past. There will be music to hear, rides from Mitchell Brothers Amusements to enjoy and many exhibits to view at the fairgrounds in Oberlin.
The board’s officers include Phillip Reeves of Reeves, president; Lee Manuel of Oakdale, vice president; Syble Ryder of Oberlin, secretary; and Brandon Chaumont of Oberlin, manager. Board of directors include Equilla Victorian and Alex Smith from Ward One; Steve Taylor and Hine Unkel from Ward II; Rusty Reeves, Phillip Reeves and Brandy Thomas from Ward III; Bailey Anderson and Herman Ray Hill from Ward IV; and Jared Carrier, Lee Manuel and Harold Miller from Ward V. James Ryder serves as members-at-large.
Thursday is senior citizen day, and Friday is the parish’ student day.
