JAMBOREE IN The Hills means the world to thousands and thousands of country music fans and revelers.

It also means a great deal to the Belmont County economy. The Belmont County Commissioners took their weekly show on the road Wednesday, setting up shop at the site of the 34th annual Jamboree to conduct their business.

The JITH is music to the ears of those in attendance at the festival as well as county officials. The Superbowl of Country Music brings with it a huge cash cow for surrounding businesses.

County commissioners are well aware of that fact and relish the financial windfall which accompanies all the trappings that go along with the four-day entertainment extravaganza.

When some 100,000 patrons converge on Eastern Ohio, the economic impact can prove staggering.

For many local businesses, Jamboree In The Hills fuels their operations for the entire year. For others, it is an economic boost that nothing else can rival.

That is why Commissioners Ginny Favede, Matt Coffland and Chuck Probst held court there Wednesday. They recognize and appreciate what JITH means to the area. Although it lasts just a week — when you factor in the campers — the benefits are priceless.

We harbor the same mode of thinking as the commissioners. That being, Jamboree In The Hills is a treasure, both for festival fans and the well-being of Belmont County.

It is impossible to calculate the total financial gains realized by the county and its businesses from JITH over the course of three plus decades.

But we are certain of one thing, Jamboree In The Hills is returning next year for a 35th year and Belmont County is very fortunate for that.