Fair Disappointment

After several years of no change, there is a new sign at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. And I'm not impressed.

Growing up, this sign would change each year with the theme of the fair. Then it would stay up until the following year. We would anticipate it.

A few years ago, they adopted a new logo for the fair, and the sign remained unchanged. There was no theme, just the logo and text. Unfortunately, thanks to the weather and sun, the colors faded and it was looking pretty bad. There was peeling around the edges and it appeared like the fairgrounds was rundown.

Just last week, the city moved to allow beer as part of the fair experience. Of course, this was for the revenue it would bring. Then on Wednesday, the day before the fair starts, they fix the sign with Budweiser logo and add a electronic sign. That was fast!

Now, I'm disappointed for several reasons. There is no theme, no art, not even the logo for the fairgrounds. Instead, beer is more prominent on the banner! I realize that Budweiser obviously paid for it. But it is very dull. Not even appealing.

Of course, I'm also not too happy about beer being 'allowed' on the grounds either. But having worked there as a teenager, I don't really seeing it being any worse. Folks who wanted to get liquored up would do so before walking in the gates, and would often party at their vehicles. However, I can guarantee that security will be beefed up for the next few years. There is no way that the fairgrounds will want there to be any chance of trouble, otherwise they'd have to reverse the decision and lose out on this great revenue.

I don't favor the idea of alcohol at a place that should have a "family atmosphere". But truth be told, I've never really thought the fair to be the most family-oriented event. It's fun, but I personally think the zoo or circus to be better. Going to fair is like the rennin for "people of Walmart"…. or worse!

Will we go this year? I'm not sure. We weren't impressed last time. And truthfully, I'd rather spend any extra money we have on something more enjoyable.

~Matt