“I now proclaim the fair open.”

Those were the words of Austin police lieutenant and Mower County Fair Board President John Mueller Tuesday after the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Helping Mueller and the Chamber Ambassadors open the fair was Dan Morem — the 2009 Fair Person of the Year.

“It’s a huge deal for me,” the Austin businessman said with a smile.

Morem, owner of Morem Tree Services, which was badly damaged during the June tornado, said he’s been going to the fair for 55 years.

Mueller told the audience that Morem’s long-term involvement with the fair made him a very deserving choice.

“Lots of thought goes into Mower County Fair Person of the Year,” Mueller said.

County coordinator Craig Oscarson echoed Mueller’s sentiment.

“I think (Dan) is well deserving,” Oscarson said. “He does a lot for the community.”

Before Morem snipped the ceremonial ribbon, the Austin American Legion Post No. 91 presented the colors.

Once the opening ceremonies were completed, it was on to the fair — and what a day for it.

With temperatures in the 80s and few clouds in the sky, fair-goers were treated to wonderful weather on Day 1.

“It should be a good fair, good weather,” Oscarson said. “It’s always a fun time.”

Tonight’s grandstand event is the demolition derby at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 5-12. Kids under 5 are free with a paid adult.

The 2009 Mower County Fair runs through Sunday. Visit www.mowercountyfair.com for a complete schedule.