Opinion: More than Fair

Opinions are the views of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Sheridan Express.

by Russ Kremer, Missouri Farmers Union
Advertising for the Missouri State Fair usually focuses on the big musical acts and shows. That's understandable. The fair must sustain itself, and big crowd getters add the gravy to the 11-day event. But often overlooked is the State Fair's ability to showcase the family farm to a growing urban populus.
There's no denying that with each succeeding generation, more Missourians get farther and farther away from their farm roots. There have been noble attempts to raise urbanite awareness about the beauty of rural life. Four years ago, the Missouri Department of Conservation enlisted the Missouri Division of Tourism to promote the fair to Kansas City residents. And the tourism division already had begun an effort to introduce inner city children from Kansas City and St. Louis to the charms of the State Fair. By the way, the children loved the experience. Many had never seen live farm animals up close.
The state fair does something else. Beyond the fun and the frills and the bright lights, the state fair allows Missourians to show their local products to other Missourians. It's a local marketplace. Sure, there are national and regional products, but everywhere you turn, you see the handiwork produced by Missouri hands.
As it should be, much of the fair's energy is aimed at youth. They will inherit our family farm culture. And they are the only hope we have that the family farm culture survives. We must get beyond the thought that youth should not stay on the farm, establish a farm or be in a rural area. Some parents even encourage their farm-raised children to leave rural Missouri due to lack of opportunity. But the state fair can highlight the rural quality of life. Obviously, to attract youth, family farms should have the same amenities as their urban counterparts -- things like access to rural broadband. The Missouri Farmers Union works on such issues as information access, and creating marketing opportunities through cooperatives and rural business.
When you visit the Missouri State Fair this year, do three things. First, take a look around at the diversity of the people who attend the fair. Hopefully, you'll see more urbanites, and more youth. Second, stop by the MFU booth to say hello and see what we're doing for the family farmer. And the third thing: Have fun. It's the State Fair!