Livestock Show and Auction Canceled for the 2020 Madera Fair
"It is with heavy hearts that we, the Madera District Fair Board of Directors, announce the cancellation of all of the livestock shows and auction at the 2020 Madera Fair. This was a difficult decision to make in this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, but we feel that it was made in the best interest of our exhibitors, their leaders, instructors and our community.
We recognize the important role that the livestock program and junior livestock auction plays in our community for our 4-H and FFA exhibitors, their families, and the buyers who graciously support them every year. However, with ownership deadlines looming, school farms being closed to students, and businesses suffering economic losses from the State shutdown we feel that the most prudent action at this point is not to encourage exhibitors to purchase and invest in projects that may not return a profit in 2020.
We are aware of a number of exhibitors who have already purchased projects, as the first ownership deadline for market beef was on May 11th and we received a number of potential entries at that time. Our goal is to develop a program that will allow these exhibitors, as well as others who have already purchased animals, to be matched with buyers to sell their animals. We do not know what this process will look like at this point, but will be working with local supporters to determine the best method to make these connections and to provide support to the youth in our community who have already seen so much disappointment this year.
At this time, the annual Fair is still being planned for September but with significant modifications due to social distancing guidelines. As we continue to work with State and local officials, we will keep the community informed of our status and ask for your support with these difficult decisions that must be made in these difficult times.
In our hearts, we hope to see you all soon so that we can celebrate as a community, but until then please stay safe and healthy."
Isabel Barreras, Board President
Rosanne Bonilla
Skip Petitt
Billie Jelks-Hood
Butch Ricketts
Lois Leonard
Stephanie Simonian
Patty Manfredi
Sheryl Sisil
