Belknap County fair organizers clarify participation issues for 4-H program

Tensions surrounding the future of the Belknap County Fair and its 4-H program took center stage at the recent Belknap County Delegation meeting, as representatives grappled with conflicting communications regarding the event's status.

The meeting revealed a significant misunderstanding about the fair's operations, with some officials initially believing it would be canceled. Representative Tom Plock emphasized the importance of clarifying the situation, stating, "If a letter went out telling people the fair is canceled, someone needs to correct that." This sentiment was echoed by other members who expressed concern for the youth involved in the 4-H program, which relies on the fair for qualification opportunities at larger events like the Eastern States Expo.

Michael Harris, the program manager, clarified that while the fair would not be canceled, there was confusion about the 4-H's participation. He noted that the organization would work to identify alternative fairs for youth qualifications, aiming to maintain opportunities for young participants. However, Kathy Danube from the fair board highlighted that communication had been unclear, stating, "We made it perfectly clear that if the kids wanted to come as open, we would still pay their premiums."

The discussion underscored the need for improved communication between the fair board and the 4-H program, with representatives calling for a follow-up meeting to address the ongoing issues. Representative Freeman proposed adding this topic to the agenda for the next meeting, emphasizing the public's concern and the necessity for transparency.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that resolving these conflicts is crucial for the future of the fair and the opportunities it provides for local youth. The next steps will involve further discussions aimed at ensuring a successful event that benefits all parties involved.