Upwards to thirty years ago the New York State Grange embarked upon the above named fund raising project at the annual New York State Fair. The booth features sliced and ground/bbq’d sandwiches, cut from large roasts that have been slow-cooked over a wood fire. The roasting is done on-site in a specially designed cooker to duplicate as close as possible the taste and texture of the original roasting process, which involved splitting the carcass and roasting it over a bed of coals.
As this is a volunteer effort, staffing is secured from grangers around the state. Over the years Ravena Grange has been a frequent contributor to staffing, this past year being no exception. Several Ravena Grangers traveled to Syracuse on Labor Day and spent six hours working in the booth. To do an effective job it takes a staff of at least 12 people to run the stand. Only four individuals are used on the counter, with the rest supporting.
For this writer, who has been an avid fairgoer for the last half century, there is a lot to be proud of with this operation. Not only is it the best deal of the fairgrounds, price and quality wise, but it is second to none in turn around time.
While it requires a bit of effort and expense to participate in this activity, we find it a very enjoyable activity. Not only is there the satisfaction of offering a good product to the public and benefiting the cause at the same time, but there is also the opportunity to work and fellowship with others, some of whom are only seen during fair time. At the end of the day, it is the fellowship/work part that endures.
This activity, like other grange activities, offers people opportunities they otherwise would not have had. While it is a lot easier to "veg out" in front of the TV, computer, or other entertainment device, none of that gives us much to look back on in the years to come with any expectations of personal satisfaction. We would encourage you, dear reader, to get involved. Doing things for and with others with a goal in focus has great personal rewards.
Check out our Photo Album for some pictures of the 2007 Ox Roast.
Al Fine |
