Good Times, Good Beer, and a Few Good Fights

One of the highlights of the 76th annual Overland Lions Fair is the Beer Garden. The Beer Garden provides a fun atmosphere and has an overflowing crowed by 6:00 PM most evenings. "It's the biggest part of our fundraising efforts at the fair," explained Kelly Braun, a fair organizer. "This crowd loves the booze, and we are here to sell it--and it's all for a good cause"

For many, it is a chance to see neighbors and long-lost friends. "It really takes on the air of a high school reunion," exclaimed Becky Johnson, Overland resident and Ritenour 1986 graduate. "You see some folks you haven't seen for years and in a more relaxed environment than will be at October's 20-year reunion."

Sometimes these reunions spark more excitement than necessary. An hour or two doesn't pass in the Beer Garden without fisticuffs among the inebriated. "I can't believe he hit me," lamented Tom Jones, holding a pack of ice against his visibly bruised jaw. "He introduces me to his wife, who was always so snotty in high school and I tell him 'I can't believe you married that bitch' and POW!"

One of the other highlights of the Beer Garden is the music. Various bands are hired to play and an impromptu dance floor is created by the unsupervised children of Overland wandering among the intoxicated.