By Okon Ekpenyong

A Day at the State Fair and Expo Center with Ohio State Rep Ismail Mohamed on Friday, July 28th, provided fifty youths from the “We are Linden” nonprofit organization with free entry tickets, food, and rides to the Ohio State Fair. Gov. Mike DeWine also joined the representative to meet and greet with the Youth and told them about all the amenities offered at the state fair.

Rep Ismail Mohamed hoped to continue inspiring and motivating the Youth to continue striving for success by providing this opportunity. He had been a strong advocate for the Youth in his district long before becoming the first Somali American male elected to any office in the state. He ensures every child has the resources to attain their full potential.

Mohamed stated that Ohio State Fair is a great way to give the children a fun and educational experience. By partnering with the “We are Linden”

organization, Rep Ismail Mohamed provided fifty young people on Friday afternoon with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The “We Are Linden” program provides mentorship and teaches young people to make positive choices. The Ohio State Fair is an excellent opportunity to expose Youth to various attractions and experiences. Rep Ismail Mohamed’s partnership with the program is a great way to help the child explore and learn in a safe environment.

A member of the State Fair introduced the Youth to some of the activities and agricultural adventures available at the Fair and provided a tour of the facilities. The kids had the chance to tour the Voinvich Livestock Center, Kasich Hall showcasing creative arts, youth arts, and sports.

The State Fair officially kicked off on July 26th and continued until August 6th. It has something for all ages, from music, rides, games, food, interactions with farm animals, and much more. Approximately 886,473 visitors passed through the gates of the 2022 Ohio State Fair, and organizers anticipate the number will be higher this year.

Governor DeWine and Rep. Mohamed used the event to emphasize the importance of helping the community youth and supporting them in their endeavors. They also stressed the importance of teaching the kids the values of agriculture and the significance of farming in the state. A day at the Stair Fair was an excellent way for the kids to learn more about the state’s resources and have fun.

Representatives of the nonprofit organization “We are Linden” thanked Governor DeWine and Rep Mohamed for their support and for providing the kids with an unforgettable experience. They also expressed gratitude for giving the Youth of Linden a safe and positive environment to explore and create lasting memories.

“We Had an absolute blast with our Linden Family at Ohio Expo Center and State Fair – Cardinal Hall. As an elected, the best part of our job is the impact we have on our Youth. Showing these kids all the fun and educational activities at the State Fair was so amazing,” said Rep Mohamed.

Rep Mohamed also emphasized how terrific the tour guide provided by the State Fair was. Besides touring the state fair, the kids also met Governor Mike DeWine. Rep Mohamed also thanked Ralph Carter for everything he does for our Linden youth.

Today at the 46th Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame luncheon and induction ceremony, the New American Magazine asked the Governor why meeting fifty young people from the “We Are Linden” program was so crucial on July 28th to the state fair’s legacy of educating and introducing people of all backgrounds to its amenities.

“County and State fairs allow people to learn about healthy food, food production, and agriculture,” said Governor DeWine. “The Fair was a blast for the kids of “We Are Linden.” It’s an inclusive affair that allows individuals of all ages to experience and gain insights into agriculture and livestock tangibly.”

The South and North Linden Communities have faced hardships due to increased crime. However, city leaders, community leaders, and long-term residents are working together, including State Rep Mohamed, to make opportunities for the Youth, especially to know there is hope and to strive for excellence despite hardship.

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