In Focus: A Family’s Love Wins Crow Wing Co. Fair Talent Show

The Crow Wing County Fair awarded their pre-teen, teen, and open-talent show winners on Friday. While each participant brought the crowds to their feet, it was the connection between a grandfather and her granddaughter that stole the show.

“I got a call from my grandpa when I was out shopping, and he was like, ‘do you want to sing at a county fair?'” said teen talent show participant Ashley Miles.

Ashley and her grandfather Ralph Anderson, originally from Kansas, would travel more than 600 miles to visit family and participate in the fourth day of activities at the Crow Wing County Fair.

“This is the teen talent show. We didn’t have too many contestants, but they were both well received and they both had talent,” said Sharron Ryappy, Crow Wing County Fair Association President.

Ashley spent most of her childhood singing in her grandfather’s country dance club, so with her idol looking on and pushing her to achieve her goals, she turned back the clock with a Hank Williams tune, winning first place and the cheers of the crowd.

“It’s crazy, I thought I was going to go up against a lot more people, but I’m still happy,” said Ashley.

“I couldn’t hardly talk there when she won, and I’m still so proud of her,” said Ralph. “It chokes me up, because that’s all I live for is to help her develop a music career because that’s her dream, and if I can help her fulfill that then I’ve achieved my purpose in life.”

After the teen talent contest, there was another competition, this time open to anyone that wanted to enter. The two would team up, with Ashley on guitar and Ralph doing his best George Strait rendition.

“First place is $100, second place $75, and third place is $50, and they’re all vying for a spot to go to the [Minnesota] State Fair forthe amateur finals,” explained Ryappy.

With the duo headed to the State Fair, they’ll have another chance to showcase the talent grown from a connection that runs on love.

“I couldn’t ask for a better granddaughter,” said Ralph with a smile.

The Crow Wing County Fair wraps up its yearly event Saturday, August 7, with the theme being Kids Day.