Faircracker SPRING 2021 Article by David MussELman
I wanted to write some words of wisdom, or at least of encouragement, when I got the invitation this season to write an
article for the newsletter. I sat down at the laptop and the words just would not come. I realized this pandemic situa- tion was a gut punch for so many, and just from what we here at Capitol are going thru, I know there must be so many others who are hurting much worse and all of us feel helpless in many ways. My heart broke remembering all over the country that did
not even open this year. Now there are fairs in CA who have already cancelled for 2021. I thought about the chil- dren that worked so hard with their animals and were not able to show them, the carnival owners, the many shows and exhibits, the many workers, not to mention all the local economies that were hurt so badly because there was no fair this year. As I thought about all this, I realized my words were in-
adequate and in myself, there was nothing I could say ex- cept to “Keep the Faith,” which I am sure we all are doing the best we can in our own ways. Then, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit two fairs this
month and that was the medicine I needed. First, Manatee County where I got to see the incredible
Hollywood Circus, their amazing petting zoo and the Holly- wood Racing Pigs. They had the beautiful Camels formerly from the Ringling shows on display providing camel rides and educational shows that are very informative. The fair was beautiful and clean, and folks were having fun. I loved it!!
Getting to meet Danny Alfonso was a pleasure and learn-
ing how he and his board have worked so hard to fight the pandemic and still provide a safe, family fair was a great learning experience. Seeing the stands full for the 4-H Kids and their families, all their showing their animals made my heart jump. It confirmed my feelings that this is an industry that is so badly needed for the future of our nation. That the youngsters that are learning about agriculture today are being prepared to lead the nation in the right direction in the future. It made me realize we need to fight for the future of our fairs. Plus, it all came with the bonus plan. That is because the
folks from the Strawberry Festival, Paul, Ellany and Tim had come to visit. So, it was great getting to see and spend time with them as well. And of course there was Dennis Lee who introduced us all at his show and made everyone feel important with his special brand of humor.
Page 51 Next, I had the privilege of visiting the S. Florida (Mini
Fair) on Monday and it was great to again “feel the fair envi- ronment.” Most people reading this are part of the fair fami- ly and they will understand the “feel.” It encompasses our senses with the smells, the sounds and the fun we all feel that excites us every time we are at the fair, no matter where it is. At the S. Florida Fair, Rita was so gracious. She met me
in the parking lot, made me put on my mask and proceeded to give me the A+ tour. I got to see Travis, her main enter- tainment coordinator and although Vicki was busy, I know she appreciated my being there as well. Again, I got the bonus plan. Marla Calico, in person, was there at the fair working as a volunteer. I got to spend time with her and again was reminded what a great organization we have in the IAFE. I am thankful for Marla’s leadership and I am hap- py to let her know that. It was such a great experience, thanks to these wonderful
fair professionals, that I had to write and share that, THE FAIRS ARE ALIVE AND WELL. “Go forth and prosper” and let’s have a great fair season in 2021. By the time this is published more of our FL fairs will have
played or be playing thanks to our Governor not closing us up, and my prayer is that God is going to bless us with mild weather all spring so these fairs will have their best oppor- tunity. Our fairs are needed now more than ever. And we have
the opportunity to help give our children a better future with our support of the Florida Fairs and fairs internationally. So, let’s get back at it. That is what we are doing and encourag- ing all our attractions to do.
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