Walla Walla Fair and Frontier Days board discusses cancellation

WALLA WALLA—The Walla Walla Fair and Frontier Days board of directors met Thursday, June 11 via conference call. The board discussed the decision to cancel the 2020 fair, and how they can help livestock exhibitors that raised market animals intended to be sold at the event.

Commissioner Todd Kimball wanted to clarify that it was the Frontier Days Foundation, not the board, that suggested cancelling the 2020 fair.

Director Kevin Smith suggested that the board explore options for a virtual animal sale for livestock exhibitors. All members of the board recognized how much time, effort, and money goes into raising the animals, and would like to give the exhibitors a chance to recoup some of their costs. Smith has been in touch with a couple of people who have helped with online sales previously and encourage people to come forward with any ideas or tips.

Fair Board President Travis Locke addressed the resignation of the fair manager, Bill Ogg who announced his resignation earlier this year as Locke asked for input on how to proceed without a manager. Two solutions Locke presented were to select an interim manager, or to begin searching for a new manager as soon as possible.

The board is also in the process of beginning refunds for tickets purchased. As soon as the fair’s systems are prepared, announcements will be made to the public.