Some fear local impact from cuts to Michigan State Fair

By John Paul (jpaul@wsbt.com)

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Cuts to Michigan State Fair

Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm is expected to propose a cut to the state's budget that would eliminate funding for the Michigan State Fair. Some fear those cuts will trickle down to the local level. (WSBT file photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Feb 3, 2009 at 4:48 PM EST

Story Updated: Feb 5, 2009 at 11:43 PM EST

BERRIEN CO. — In her State of the State address Tuesday night, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is expected to propose cutting 10 of 16 state departments and eliminating the state fair.

That would affect 4-H clubs and children who feature their animals, crafts and other exhibits. There's also concern cutting the fair may trickle down to the county level.

Awards, pictures and honors on the wall inside the Berrien County Youth Fair office mark 64 years of service the fair has provided to the community.

And, outside on a billboard, thoughts of warm weather, elephant ears and corn dogs captivate drivers and passers-by.

But there are some cold hard facts about the troubling economy in the state, like the $1.6 billion deficit Michigan faces, and a proposal from Gov. Granholm to stop funding for the Michigan State Fair — a 160-year-old tradition.

"We're not happy with her proposal to cut the state fair," said Chris Carlin. "I understand she has to cut the budget, but I'd really hate to see it at the state fair level."

Carlin, Fair Manager for Berrien County's Youth Fair, says the governor's proposal to save a little more than $1 million would affect 4-H members locally.

"It gives thousands of young people to learn responsibility, develop a work ethic and improve self esteem," Carlin said. "The impact of Granholm's decision will impact some of our exhibitors because they go on to the state fair."

Carlin hopes there's a way to keep the shows inside the Grandstand going.

"We do send some of our students to the state fair," said Carlin.

And also for the contributions agriculture plays in our society.

"It shows people where eggs come from, where milk comes from," he said, "and educates them about livestock and gives the youth a chance to showcase their talents."

And the contributions to our economy.

"The agriculture in this state is a $64 billion industry," Carlin said. "That's huge."

Carlin says last year, attendance at the Berrien County Youth Fair was one of the best years in recent memory.

He says the nation's economic situation — including $4 a gallon gas — kept many people local. And with the record unemployment in Michigan, Carlin believes that will again be the case this year.

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