Pillen spoke at the opening ceremony on Friday, which took place at Earl May Fair Square.

The governor praised the members of the State Fair Board.

“You are working tirelessly to make this an extraordinary event and an extraordinary time for the people of Nebraska. I can’t thank you enough,” Pillen said.

He also said that the great work of continuing education teachers in all 93 districts is something to be proud of.

At the state and district fair, the “first professor” the children come into contact with is a continuing education teacher, he said.

Pillen spoke of the “countless volunteers throughout our communities who spend a lot of time” teaching children about agriculture and helping them “learn about leadership skills and opportunities.”

Through making and showing farm animals, children learn “courage and determination and some of the good and some of the bad, some of the challenges – falling into a dung heap, digging a mud hole, whatever it takes.”

The most beautiful thing children learn through their involvement in 4-H and livestock care is that “life is not about me,” Pillen said.

They learn that “someone is relying on them and they can then take those qualities and abilities to a depth and level that no one can really, truly ever comprehend.”

Before Friday’s ceremony, Pillen spent time in the Ag Pavilion, which was full of children.

Someone said that children learn more about careers at the fair.

“I said, ‘No. Let’s get rid of the word ‘jobs,'” Pillen said. “Who in the world wants a job?” Nebraska offers “great, great careers that all of our kids can learn about,” he said.

People should brag about these careers and tell young people about them “so our children stay here,” he said.

Nebraskans consider them normal, Pillen said.

“And you know what? We’re not. We’re extraordinary people.”

State Fair Executive Director Jaime Parr also said at the opening ceremony that all roads would lead to fun over the next 11 days.

“We all know there’s a lot of fun to be had at the Nebraska State Fair,” Parr said. “The fair also features a lot of pride, confidence, leadership, showmanship, physical labor, dust, dirt, mud and more. But it’s all usually mixed with a little fun, because there’s really nothing more Nebraska than the Nebraska State Fair.”

Lindsey Koepke, executive director of the 1868 Foundation, said there is no more beautiful place in Nebraska than Grand Island during the State Fair, “and it has been for 15 fantastic years.”

Another speaker was Jeff Kliment, chairman of the State Fair Board. He said he was excited to welcome people to “an event that promises to be an incredible celebration of our state’s rich agricultural heritage and innovative spirit.”

“Our fair is more than just an event,” Kliment said. “It’s a tradition that brings families together” and draws friends and communities from across the state.

“From the dazzling competitive exhibits and thrilling competitions to the delicious food and fantastic entertainment, there is something here for everyone to enjoy,” said Kliment. “As you explore the fairgrounds, take the time to visit our agricultural exhibits where you can see firsthand the dedication and hard work of our local farmers and ranchers. Don’t miss the exciting rides and games that are sure to bring out the kid in all of us.”

Kliment said the fair would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of staff, volunteers, sponsors and exhibitors.

“Their commitment and passion for this fair is truly inspiring and I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of them,” said Kliment.

“We hope all of our visitors, whether they have always been here or are visiting for the first time, will have wonderful memories here at the Nebraska State Fair,” Kliment said. “Enjoy the festivities and thank you for being a part of this cherished tradition.”