Barstow, MD – There wasn’t a single ray of real sunshine at the 129th Calvert County Fair, which concluded under cloudy skies Sunday, Oct. 4. However, there were a few silver linings.

From over a dozen contestants, three individuals displayed their enormous talents in the event’s annual “Calvert County Fair Idol” competition. Saturday night, Oct. 3 a panel of judges selected Keanu Smith-Brown of Prince Frederick as the grand prize winner. Smith-Brown’s vocal talents earned him a $1,000 prize. Second-place was awarded to Chastity Jones, who was presented with a $500 check. The third-place winner was Avion Keemer, who earned a $300 prize.

The Idol finals were hosted by comedy illusionist Reggie Rice, who also entertained attendees with his unique magic.

Calvert County Fair officials reported that in addition to the cash prizes for three winning contestants, the competition’s sponsor, G.H. Clark Contractors Inc. of Prince Frederick also gave the contestants’ parents gift certificates matching the cash prizes won.

Saturday evening at the fair also included another successful 4-H Livestock Auction. The youngsters showed off their goats, sheep and hogs, which were purchased by local businesses, organizations and individuals.

Area pro football fans got a chance to meet two retired members of the Washington Redskins—defensive lineman Darryl Grant and running back Clinton Portis—along with ubiquitous mascot “Chief Z,” during a lengthy autograph signing session hosted by Mark’s Electronics of California.

Fair board president Carol Lee told The BayNet Monday, Oct. 5 that no attendance figures were available yet. The biggest day of the annual fair—Friday, Youth Day—was plagued by rain. Fair officials closed the grounds at 5 p.m. due to the severe weather conditions.

Saturday proved to be a bit milder and the carnival rides, which did not operate the previous two days, finally restarted.

The final day, Sunday was “a pretty good day,” said Lee, who added attendance was still considerably below normal.

Noting the heavy rains and high winds, Lee said, “at least no one was hurt. Thank goodness for that.”

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com

Saturday and Sunday Photos by The BayNet Photojournalist Ron Bailey

Saturday gallery http://www.thebaynet.com/photos/calvert-county-fair-saturday.html

Saturday night gallery http://www.thebaynet.com/photos/calvert-county-fair-saturday-night.html