Scioto County Commissioners have some advice for “keyboard warriors” criticizing this year’s Scioto County Fair. They say those critics need to change their attitudes or, even better, step up and volunteer to help with the fair. “If people quit going to the fair, guess what? We just won’t have one.”
Speaking at Thursday’s Scioto County Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Scottie Powell addressed those complaining about the shortage of rides at this year’s event. Fairs and carnivals around Ohio have experienced ride shortages, partly due to stricter safety inspection and liability insurance requirements brought about by Tyler’s Law.
“There’s been a lot of beating up on the fair board on social media,” Powell said. He suggested that adults complaining kids are disappointed should think about their own attitudes. “If me and my family go to the fair and I hype it up for my kids and I make it enjoyable, it’s going to be enjoyable. If I go to the fair and I dump on it in front of my kids, it’s not going to be. Life is about perspective.”
The commissioner praised the hard work of fair volunteers who faced struggles to changes in regulations and last-minute cancellations from ride providers. “Support the fair. There’s a ton of kids out there doing great work for 4H. I believe they deserve attention for what they do and their projects.”
Powell has a suggestion for those who miss the good old days. “If you’re passionate about the fair and want it to be what it was 20 years ago, by all means volunteer. By all means, contribute time, energy, money, and resources. I’m sure they would appreciate that. It is a group of volunteers that pull off this event.”
Powell admitted some aspects of this year’s fair were disappointing. “But at the same time, I saw tons of kids enjoying themselves – smiling, running, and having fun. Too often, we focus on the negative in this community. It’s perspective. Being a keyboard warrior doesn’t help. Volunteer you time and energy to make it better next time.”
The commissioner said a new ride operator had toured the fairgrounds. “It has bigger equipment and different things. We’re hopeful. The new regulations in Ohio has made it not interesting for some operators to come into Ohio.”
Commissioner Cathy Coleman also encouraged citizens to attend. “I have been out there every night. I’ve enjoyed good food. There’s a lot to see and a lot to do. We are big supporters of the 4H. These kids have worked so hard.”
Commissioner Bryan Davis added that he’d heard people complain about the $10 admission to the fair. “People blow $10 at Starbucks. Ten dollars is for a whole day at the fair. Get out there and support our young people. Invest in our young people and let them know they are appreciated.”