For years, the driving force behind the organization of the annual Skagit County Fair has been Fair Manager Aric Gaither. In the time that I've worked with Aric, I've never stopped marveling at his energy and dedication to making the fair a cherished venue for bringing together friends and neighbors from all over the Magic Skagit. What few people appreciate about Aric's accomplishments is the fact that he has overseen the transition of the fair into a self-sustaining enterprise. This year, Aric was able to hire an assistant manager -- one whose credentials go all the way back to her high school years in Future Farmers of America (FFA) and showing animals at the Santa Clara County Fair in California, where she went on to become part of its staff doing educational outreach.
Meet Frances Negranza.
In this TMS podcast episode you'll learn about Frances' background and experience in fair management, and her philosophy about the role that county fairs play in educating children on the importance of agriculture while providing a memorable entertainment experience for families from all walks of life. I think you'll agree that short of cloning himself, it would be hard to imagine Aric Gaither recruiting a more energetic and able cohort than Ms. Negranza. The future of the Skagit County Fair looks bright indeed.
