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Holding a modified Webster County Fair is the right move

Achievements of area youths will be highlighted despite pandemic

Every year, farm kids throughout Webster County spend hundreds of hours nurturing their livestock and working on their projects with the goal of winning a ribbon at the county fair. And to make it even more worthwhile, there’s the chance to make it to the iconic Iowa State Fair.

As it has with so many other things this year, COVID-19 has put a damper on those aspirations.

The state fair has been canceled, but there is still a chance for local 4-H and FFA members to walk before the judges with their animals or show off their projects.

The Webster County Fair Board has decided to press ahead with a modified version of the fair July 8-12.

The 4-H and FFA livestock judging will be held. So will the judging of the various static projects.

At the grandstand, there will still be figure 8 races, a motorcycle challenge course, a tough truck race and an open truck pull.

But the vendors, exhibits, carnival and free entertainment have been canceled for this year. The open shows in which anyone can enter their projects have also been scrapped.

Will some of the fun be missing from the fair this year? Yes. But let’s remember that providing a showcase for the hard work of our young people has always been at the heart of the Webster County Fair. That tradition will continue this year.

In the area, fair organizers in Calhoun, Palo Alto and Wright counties are also moving forward with plans for modified versions of their annual events. Other area counties may join them.

We believe that is a good move. During a year in which the pandemic has ripped so many other things, such as traditional graduations, away from area youths these fair boards are doing their best to provide a memorable and beneficial experience. We thank them for that.

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