Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions Wraps Up Annual Convention

The Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (MAFE) held its annual convention Jan. 10-12, 2008, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids, Mich. The total attendance for the convention was 1,282.  The trade show hosted 81 booths and 17 showcase acts performed. Communication award entries increased by 12%.

Lisa Hinton of the Florida Federation of Fairs presented an IAFE workshop titled “Innovative Ideas in Youth Livestock Programs.” Jim Sinclair Other workshop topics included “Animal Health Diseases at Fairs & Exhibitions: Reducing the Risks,” “Protecting Your Water Supply At Your Fairgrounds,” “Carnival Ride Safety in Michigan,” “Working with Your Tourism Association,” and “Cultural Economic Development Online Tool and Effective Website Tips.”

The keynote speaker was Dale Darling of Orangeville, Calif., who recounted his pursuit in conquering the Seven Summits of the World in “Reaching New Heights.” Darling noted that his journey required teamwork, communications, setting goals, perseverance, overcoming challenges, and achieving new heights.

The MAFE Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Ric Crawford of the Shiawassee County Fair, Corunna.  Crawford generated funding and interest in building a veterans memorial at his fair. The MAFE Youth Volunteer of the Year is Jace Kamphorst of the Newaygo County Agricultural Fair, Fremont. Kamphorst tirelessly volunteers at the fairgrounds by assisting in grounds and building preparation.

The 2008 MAFE officers are President John Currie of the Mecosta County Free Fair, Big Rapids; Vice President Christian Miller, CFE, of the Genesee County Fair, Mount Morris; Treasurer Tom Valliere of the Midland County Agricultural & Horticultural Fair, Midland; and Secretary L.C. Scramlin, CFE, of the Oakland County Fair, Davisburg.

The 2009 MAFE Convention will be held Jan. 8-10 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel and the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids.