By Allen Hamrick, Clay County Free Press
CLAY, W.Va. — The 2025 Clay Golden Delicious Festival is now a part of history. It all started with some awesome weather on Thursday and Friday. On Thursday night, the flag was raised and the festival got underway. The newly crowned queens were ushered through their coronation as friends and family watched. The new parade that is strictly to honor and showcase the area’s finest first responders took place Thursday evening, and afterward, music filled the air. Clay’s finest local talent hit the stage first and then it was time for Tracy Wayne’s open mic night. This event displayed many of the up-and-coming local talents that have some great pipes. Smoke from barbecues filled the air and the smell of pulled pork sandwiches, chicken and such was nearly overwhelming to the senses. If your taste buds were not satisfied, you better get your tongue tested. The quilt show also opened and displayed some of the best talent in stitchery. These Clay County quilters put heart and soul into their art, sometimes requiring months from the first stitch to finish.
Friday started as a fine day to get reacquainted with friends, enjoy a cup of coffee and chase it with some fine food. Big Otter and Clay Elementary choirs took the stage in the morning hours as those in attendance heard some great voices. Francis Sutton was named this year’s Golden Delicious Belle as family and friends gathered to celebrate a well-deserved award given to a lady whose list of accomplishments rival anybody’s. She has not just lived her life in the hills as many do; she is a part of a community and acted in service to others. Mrs. Sutton accepted the crown like a true queen and will hold the title with the utmost class and style. Afterwards, it was time to crank up the speakers and enjoy some fine entertainment for the rest of the evening.
