LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Something big — really big — is coming to the Allen County Fairgrounds.
The fair’s beloved mascot, “Moo”rice, is getting a larger-than-life makeover in the form of a 25-foot wooden statue. The Bear Hollow Wood Carvers, a longtime fair attraction, are currently building the massive sculpture to commemorate the Allen County Fair’s 175th anniversary.
The fair’s beloved mascot, “Moo”rice, is getting a larger-than-life makeover in the form of a 25-foot wooden statue.
“The cow’s out of the bag,” organizers said announcing the towering tribute.
The statue, which will become a permanent fixture at the fairgrounds, is a collaborative effort between the Allen County Fair Board and Visit Greater Lima. The goal is to turn “Moo”rice into a roadside destination and promote tourism in the region.
“Sculptures and off-the-road sort of pulls — it gives people a real reason to stop,” said Betsy Billingsley, executive director of Visit Greater Lima. “And then, while they've stopped and come off of I-75 or 309, they can find something else to do. They can head to downtown. They can check out all the development that’s happening there, or stay on the east side of town.”
Troy Elwer, promotions and operations manager for the Allen County Fair, said the project is both a celebration and a tourism driver.
“I tell you what, the whole goal with this project, and having the partnership with Visit Greater Lima, is not only to have a celebratory piece for our 175th anniversary this year, but we really wanted to find a fun and creative way to drive tourism right here to Lima and Allen County — and I think we’re achieving that with this project,” Elwer said.
Bear Hollow Carvers are currently finishing the frame of the statue, which will soon be “fur-covered” and topped with horns.
Bear Hollow Carvers are currently finishing the frame of the statue, which will soon be “fur-covered” and topped with horns, according to lead carver Jason Emmons.
“We're about 25 feet probably right now,” Emmons said. “But, you know, we're still on framing, so he's going to get a coat of fur put on, so that's going to raise some height as well, plus we've got his horns.”
Organizers hope “Moo”rice will be completed by Saturday — just in time for selfie-seekers and fairgoers to enjoy the towering mascot at the 175th Allen County Fair.
