Memorial scholarship established for late fair board member
DOVER (WJER) (Sept. 19, 2024) – The Tuscarawas County 4-H program is paying tribute to a local agricultural icon who passed away ahead of the fair.
There’s a one-mile fun run and walk around the fairgrounds on Saturday morning in honor of Doug Wills. OSU Extension 4-H Educator Chris Kendle says the proceeds will go into a memorial scholarship fund to help program participants with their post-high school pursuits.
“So it’s going to be two $1,000 scholarships and the individuals need to be exhibiting at the fair. Our fair exhibitors aren’t necessarily going on to a four-year college. They might be going on to a tech school or they might be going on to a trade school or they might be starting their own career, so we have it open for those avenues as well.”
Wills served as a Tuscarawas County Agricultural Society board member for many years before passing away unexpectedly in May. Board President Reb Billman says he has been missed.
“I picked up a lot of stuff that Doug and had done together for quite a few years. We had both been here over 25 years so I kind of knew a lot of stuff that he done but there was a lot of stuff that I didn’t know he done. It’s been really tough for all of us.”
Saturday’s walk and run begins at 9 am. Pre-registration has already ended although organizers say last-minute joiners are welcome. The entry fee is $15 per person.