Author: brian

  • How I Got Here: From Artist Transport to County Fairs

    How I Got Here: From Artist Transport to County Fairs

    I didn’t set out to build a career in event and facility management—but looking back, every step led me here.

    It started in 1998 when I volunteered at a music festival, working in artist transportation. I didn’t have a grand plan; I just wanted to be part of something exciting. Not long after, I was asked to supervise that department—still as a volunteer—but that role gave me my first real taste of leadership and logistics in live events.

    In 2006, the company behind that festival hired me full-time. I coordinated volunteers and supported operations, learning the nuts and bolts of how festivals run—from early planning to final teardown. I got to see firsthand how critical every moving part is, especially the people making it all happen.

    Later on, I took a job with another company and stepped into the role of Executive Producer for the Boots and Hearts Music Festival. I was there for three years, overseeing one of Canada’s largest country music events. That experience pushed me to a new level—managing complex builds, massive teams, and tight schedules while staying focused on the audience experience.

    After that, I shifted into being a production manager for a local promoter, taking charge of concerts, tours, and festivals. It was a constant balance of logistics, crew management, and adapting on the fly. That pace, that pressure—it suited me.

    Then in 2016, I was lured into the county fair world. I’ll admit, it wasn’t on my radar. But once I got in, I realized how much the fair industry shared with the world I came from—just with deeper community roots. It blended everything I enjoyed about live events with something more grounded and long-term. It wasn’t just about the headliner anymore—it was about creating a space where people could come back year after year and feel like they belonged.

    Since then, I haven’t looked back. This wasn’t the career I planned, but it’s absolutely the one I was built for.

  • Discovering 4H and FFA

    Discovering 4H and FFA

    Eight years ago when I joined the Fair Industry, my understanding of county fairs was limited to the joy of Ferris wheels, the taste of funnel cakes, and the thrill of livestock auctions watched from the sidelines. Little did I know, my perspective was about to change dramatically. It was then that I first truly encountered 4-H and FFA—not as a participant in my youth, but as an observer with a newfound passion for the rich tapestry of experiences these programs offer.

    My journey into the world of 4-H and FFA began not with enrollment forms or project meetings, but through the stories and achievements of the young participants I met at the county fair. Initially, I was simply impressed by the dedication and skills displayed in everything from livestock management to robotics. Yet, as I engaged with these enthusiastic members and learned about their projects, my admiration deepened. 4-H, I discovered, was more than a youth program; it was a cornerstone of character building, offering a supportive environment for kids to explore their interests, develop their talents, and assume responsibility with grace and confidence.

    Witnessing the 4-H exhibitions at the fair, I saw firsthand the culmination of hard work and learning. Each animal shown, each vegetable grown, and each photograph displayed represented hours of dedication. More than that, they symbolized a commitment to personal growth and community involvement that was both inspiring and contagious.

    As I delved further into the fair’s offerings, my curiosity led me to the FFA—a program that captivated me with its focus on agriculture education and leadership development. The FFA members, with their iconic blue jackets, embodied a sense of pride and purpose that was palpable. Participating in events like the judging contests and agricultural mechanics, these students were not only gaining valuable skills but also advocating for the importance of agriculture in our lives.

    The fairgrounds became a dynamic classroom for these young individuals, where lessons in leadership, business, and science came alive. Through FFA, I saw how students were prepared for a lifetime of civic leadership and career success, grounded in a deep understanding of the agricultural sciences.

    What struck me most in my exploration of 4-H and FFA was the profound sense of community and belonging they fostered. These programs were more than extracurricular activities; they were a family, a support system that celebrated each member’s achievements and provided a network of encouragement and assistance. At the fair, this sense of community was unmistakable. It was a place where lifelong friendships were formed, where mentors and mentees shared moments of triumph, and where every participant, regardless of their project’s outcome, was valued and respected.

    Though my connection with 4-H and FFA began only eight years ago, the impact of these experiences has been profound. I’ve transitioned from an observer on the periphery to an ardent advocate for the programs, amazed by their ability to transform lives and enrich communities. The fair, with its celebration of agriculture, education, and community, serves as the perfect backdrop for these transformations.

    To those who, like me, may come to 4-H and FFA later in life, know that it’s never too late to appreciate and support these remarkable programs. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply cheering from the sidelines, each of us has a role to play in nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators. As the fairgrounds come to life each year, let us celebrate not just the achievements on display, but the enduring legacy of growth, learning, and community that 4-H and FFA represent.

  • Thoughts on Being an Introvert

    Thoughts on Being an Introvert

    As an introvert, I’ve always found myself sidestepping drama. Not because I’m indifferent, but because it’s, quite simply, exhausting. I prefer deep, one-on-one conversations and authentic interactions. Put me in a room buzzing with tension, gossip, or confrontation, and I’ll be searching for the nearest exit. The urge to avoid drama isn’t just a personality quirk; it actually has psychological roots that offer insight into why introverts, like myself, seek out quieter interactions.

    Research on introversion, most notably by psychologists like Carl Jung, points out that introverts are naturally wired for lower levels of stimulation. While extroverts tend to recharge in high-energy settings with lots of social interaction, introverts thrive in calmer environments. In fact, overstimulation can cause introverts’ energy to plummet, which is one reason we shy away from environments with emotional intensity or high-stakes social interactions.

    One 2011 study by researchers Jennifer Grimes, Jonathan Cheek, and Julie Norem found that introverts often experience more intense physiological responses in high-stimulation situations. These responses can be exhausting, especially in settings fraught with interpersonal drama. So, when drama arises, introverts’ aversion isn’t necessarily about disinterest; it’s more about managing energy. Seeking a low-stimulation environment is simply a way to conserve energy and maintain balance.

    For introverts, meaningful interactions are worth their weight in gold. Drama, however, tends to thrive on superficiality—gossip, rumors, petty arguments, and misunderstandings. For introverts who value authenticity, this can feel disingenuous or unproductive. Psychologist Laurie Helgoe, author of Introvert Power, discusses how introverts often find surface-level interactions draining. Conflict, especially when fueled by drama, often lacks the depth introverts find fulfilling. We’re drawn toward connection, yes, but toward a connection that offers substance.

    Introverts also tend to be more introspective, reflecting deeply on their own emotions and those of others. While this heightened empathy is often a strength, it can also become overwhelming in high-emotion situations. Studies show that introverts often possess a high sensitivity to emotional cues, which can mean they’re more affected by the emotional currents around them. Because drama often brings with it a high level of emotional intensity, introverts may instinctively distance themselves to avoid emotional overload.

    This is especially evident when it comes to workplace drama. Research published in The Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that people with higher sensitivity to emotional environments often experience higher stress levels in workplaces where drama is frequent. So, for introverts, setting boundaries against drama is a way to protect emotional health and maintain focus, which can be crucial for productivity.

    Finally, introverts’ natural inclination for peace and reflection makes drama even less appealing. As introverts, we need downtime to recharge and process thoughts. Drama disrupts this peace, introducing unnecessary stress and conflict. This isn’t to say introverts avoid conflict altogether—many of us can handle it when necessary, but we tend to prefer calm and thoughtful resolutions over heated exchanges or drawn-out disagreements. According to Helgoe, introverts’ brains are wired for deep thinking and introspection, so maintaining a calm and centered environment is critical to staying mentally balanced.

    Navigating social interactions without drama can be challenging, especially in work or group settings. But setting healthy boundaries and creating spaces for calm are practical ways introverts can maintain balance. Research shows that introverts who practice self-care and limit exposure to highly charged situations tend to report higher satisfaction with their relationships and work.

    In a world that sometimes equates silence with disengagement, it’s worth remembering that introverts’ quieter approach is rooted in a genuine need for peace. It’s not about avoiding relationships but about choosing quality over quantity and depth over superficiality. For introverts, avoiding drama isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength that allows us to stay true to ourselves and foster meaningful connections in our own way.

  • Negativity Bias and Feedback

    Negativity bias is something we all deal with—it’s that tendency to zero in on the negative over the positive. As fair managers, this bias can really shape the kind of feedback we receive from our patrons. People often remember and report what went wrong rather than what went right, and that can paint an incomplete picture of their overall experience. Understanding this dynamic is key to how we evaluate the feedback we get.

    The Connection Between Negativity Bias and Patron Feedback

    When folks come to our fair, they’re excited—they’ve got high expectations for a day full of fun, relaxation, and memory-making. But if something goes awry, like long lines, bad weather, or an unpleasant interaction, that one negative moment can overshadow everything else, thanks to negativity bias. As a result, the feedback we get might lean heavily on the negative, even if most of their experience was positive.

    This means that when we’re sorting through patron feedback, we’re likely to see more detailed and emotional responses to the negative aspects. People might not even mention the great things they enjoyed because that one hiccup sticks out in their memory.

    How I Evaluate Feedback with Negativity Bias in Mind

    1. Spotting Patterns Over Outliers: I focus on identifying recurring issues in the feedback, rather than getting hung up on one-off negative comments. If I notice multiple patrons mentioning the same concern, it’s a sign we need to address something. But if a complaint is an isolated incident, I weigh it against all the positive feedback before making any changes.

    2. Understanding the Context: The context behind the feedback is just as important as the feedback itself. For example, if we had a rainy day, negative comments about that day are likely more about the weather than the fair itself. It’s important to take these external factors into account when evaluating feedback.

    3. Balancing Feedback Sources: I always encourage feedback through various channels—surveys, social media, in-person chats—because each source can provide a different perspective. This helps balance out the negativity bias, as some people might be more inclined to share positive experiences in person or online rather than in a formal survey.

    4. Focusing on Constructive Criticism: Negative feedback isn’t always a bad thing. Constructive criticism can be incredibly valuable for making improvements. I look for feedback that offers suggestions or ideas for how we can do better, rather than just complaints.

    5. Acknowledging and Validating: When responding to negative feedback, I make it a point to acknowledge the patron’s feelings and validate their experience. This not only helps build trust but also gives me a chance to highlight any steps we’re taking to address their concerns. Often, a simple response can turn a negative experience into a positive one by showing that we’re listening and taking action.

    Negativity bias is a reality we can’t ignore, but by being mindful of it, we can better understand and respond to patron feedback. By focusing on patterns, considering context, balancing feedback channels, and valuing constructive criticism, we can make sure we’re making decisions based on a well-rounded view of patron experiences. Ultimately, even negative feedback can be a stepping stone toward creating an even better fair experience for everyone.

  • Pfefferkuchen Recipe

    This is an old family recipe that originated in Germany. I remember my grandma and my mom baking this cookie every Christmas. It’s somewhat akin to gingerbread, but with a licorice flavor (derived from the anise). Don’t expect to make this cookie in secret; the aroma will fill the entire house! But, it’s a good smell. It’s the smell of Christmas.

    1 lb brown sugar
    1 T cinnamon
    2 1/4 c. shortening
    1 T nutmeg
    2 eggs
    1 tsp cloves
    1 qt dark Karo syrup
    1 tsp allspice
    1 pt sour cream
    1 tsp cardamom
    4 oz unsweetened chocolate, melted
    Rind & juice of 2 lemons
    1 tsp salt
    1 T anise oil (Do NOT use extract, you can find the oil at your pharmacy or online)

    Mix all ingredients together.  Just before pouring out, add 2 Tbsp soda.  Pour liquid ingredients into a large pan.  (I use a 13 quart bowl, but a clean dishpan works, too).

    Stir in enough flour to make a dough stiff enough to roll out, about 18 cups.  Chill.

    Roll dough about 1/4 inch thick; cut with cookie cutter.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.  Cookies are better if made several weeks before used.

    Frosting:  Beat 1 or 2 egg whites until frothy (beginning to peak).  Add 3/4 to 1 cup powdered sugar per egg white, depending on size until frosting reaches the consistency of Elmer’s glue.  Food coloring may be added if desired.  Spread on the flat side of the cookie; decorate as desired.  Place in warm oven, about 200 degrees, for 6-7 minutes until set.  Cool on rack.  Store in airtight container, putting waxed paper between cookies that have been frosted.  Makes between 20 and 24 dozen, but they will keep for months and when they are frosted, taste better than fresh ones.

    Note: If your frosting leaves a watery mess after baking, add more powdered sugar. It should be the consistency of the paste you used in grade school. *You can eat this paste without being ridiculed.

  • My Grandfather’s Story

    “Where is our little Orville?” That was the anxious question Ben Fuiten asked of his wife Hattie as he came into the farm house after doing chores. Orville was their first born child and was their pride and joy – a charming lad of just 4 ½ years old. On that 19th day of March, 1915 Hattie had bundled little Orville up with his warm winter clothes, boots, and his hand-knitted mittens that Great Grandmother Carolina Albert had given him for Christmas he was ready to go out in the snow.

    (more…)

  • Garlic Pepper Chicken Brine

    I am a food lover. I don’t just like food, I love it. So, imagine my surprise when I heard about using a brine to enhance the flavor and moistness of chicken! There seems to be a lot of opinions on how to best create the brine and for how long to leave the chicken in. Here’s what I used:

    10 lbs of chicken quarters
    1 gallon cold of water
    1 1/2 cups Kosher salt (don’t use iodized salt)
    1 1.2 cups white sugar
    zest of 1 lemon
    juice of 1 lemon
    1 tablespoon black peppercorns
    1 tablespoon allspice
    3 large cloves garlic chopped finely
    1 tablespoon red chili pepper flake

    Heat 2 cups of water to near boiling. Remove from heat and add salt and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved. Add back to the rest of the water. Add the rest of the ingredients to the water and chill.

    You can either completely submerge the chicken in a pot with a weight on top or use zip lock bags to brine them. I put three leg quarters in a 1-gallon zip lock bag and filled with 4 cups of the liquid solution. Make sure you get an even amount of ‘goodies’ with the water you pour in each bag if you go that route.

    Put the chicken in the refrigerator and allow to sit for between 4 and 6 hours. When you are ready to cook the chicken, remove from the brine and completely rinse. The chicken will be a little salty if you don’t get a good rinse on them.

    Barbecue or bake normally (to 180 degrees). I actually barbecued the chicken to get a good brown skin on it then put it in the oven to finish it off.

    If you like a little spicier chicken, add a couple more tablespoons of red chili powder. Garlic lovers (like me) add a few more cloves. The chicken will take on the flavor of the spices in the brine so be careful not to overdo it.

    I was completely stunned at how moist the meat was. Even the breast meat was juicy.

    Prost!