Linwood Teal

GRIFTON — Most people are attracted to the North Carolina State Fair for the stomach turning rides and greasy food but Grifton resident Earl Teel goes strictly for the entertainment and family time, mainly because he’s part of the entertainment.

Teel recently participated in the 2004 N.C. State Fair’s Folk Festival, where he was awarded the Lamar Lunsford Trophy. The trophy is given to the person who best exemplifies the historical and entertainment purpose of the festival.  Teel received one of six awards given at the fair.

Teel attends the State Fair every year and participates in the Folk Festival. This is the first year he has brought home a trophy for his efforts, something he attributes to the bright colored shirt he wore that day.

"I was tickled," Teel said. "He lit up like a Christmas tree," Teel’s wife, Mary added.

Teel has been playing the guitar since 1955 and said he first started playing because there was no television and "you had to entertain yourself."

Teel said he enjoys playing music from the 40’s and 50’s and also plays some folk music. A group of locals meet up every Friday and play music together and they play whatever they feel like playing at the time.

"I like music, period," Teel said. "I like all kinds of music. I like the old type, Blue Mountain type of music."

Teel said he enjoys attending the state fair not only because it gives him a chance to play music, but also because it’s a family day for him and his family, who meet there and get a chance to enjoy the food, fun and games. "We don’t ride no more though," Teel said. "It’s like a family thing for us. We just meet up there and have a day."

Teel hopes to continue attending the State Fair with his wife and their family and said he will continue to take part in the Folk Festival.

"I love to do music," Teel said. "I love what I do and I love doing it. I play every chance I get."

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