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A Blue Ribbon A-Fair
During a very smokey morning, livestock showmen practice their social distancing while have a meeting before showing. Who are those masked people? From left to right: Parent Nancy Laughery, unknown name (out of county), Sage Kilts, Jaxson Anderson, unknown name, Samantha Davis, Cassidy Laughery.
DAYTON–The annual Columbia County Fair was unable to take place as it would under normal circumstances amid Covid-19 restrictions, but did still provide a venue for some to participate in a different way. Although events such as the Demolition Derby, rodeo, small magic shows and other activities did not take place this year, our community was fortunate enough to have a livestock show and sale, despite the Covid-19 restrictions.
Many youths in the community raised livestock such as pigs, goats, and steers to show and sell at the fair, just as they would any year. To adhere to the COVID-19 rules of engagement, all fitting and showing, classification and market events were open-class making it available to youths showing an animal. The only thing different was the livestock sale and show was not open to the public, however, it was available to view from the comfort of your home online.
Instead of going through the new fair process this year, some youth chose not to attend the restructured fair, opting to sell their animals to private buyers, but many others decided to attend. Those who continued to the fair were asked to follow a new set of rules and expectations. To prevent overcrowding the barn, the kids were given a schedule which determined the time they were allowed in the barn to check in on their animals. They were also asked to wear a mask indoors, and of course, follow social distancing guidelines. A group of adult volunteers were assigned to help maintain the barn, and watch the animals while kids were not in the barn. This replaced the participants' usual Herdsman duties.
Even under the unusual circumstances, the fair went very well for many of the kids, and adults involved. It was said the method of scheduling important aspects of livestock showing, such as weigh-in, and bathing made each phase of the event achievable, and appreciated by volunteers. Overall, this year's sale was a great success.
The youth and parents of the community are grateful to the Fair Board, Sale Committee, and all volunteers for their hard work, and for making this fair happen.
