HBAC 163: Franklin County Fair w/ Amy Fleshman

Amy Fleshman, the year round manager of the fair stops by to get us up to date on this special community tradition!This episode of the Beacon offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to stage one of central Ohio's longest-running community traditions. The guys are joined by Amy Fleshman, manager of the Franklin County Fairgrounds, for a conversation about the months of planning, hundreds of volunteers, evolving agricultural traditions, and the partnerships that make the fair possible. The discussion also explores how the fair is expanding its accessibility, educational mission, and role as a gathering place for the entire county.* Final preparations for the 2026 Franklin County Fair and the logistics of transforming the fairgrounds for opening day.* Year-round planning, infrastructure, scheduling, and the role of the volunteer board in organizing the fair.* Staffing the fair: full-time employees, part-time workers, and the extensive volunteer effort.* The 109-year history of the Franklin County Fair, its agricultural roots, and how it has evolved alongside Franklin County.* Agriculture today, changing livestock exhibits, home arts, horticulture, and the central role of 4-H youth development.* Why the fair is a defining social experience for 4-H members and multi-generational families.* Community partnerships, including the Hilliard Moose, Groveport Lions Club, Kiwanis, and other civic organizations.* Daily attractions and entertainment, including laser tag, train displays, dog shows, chainsaw carving, Jurassic Kingdom, and family activities.* Food vendors, new concessions, local favorites, and classic fair food.* The fair’s mission of creating an inclusive, family-oriented environment.* Accessibility initiatives, including sensory-friendly hours, quiet spaces, nursing rooms, adult changing restrooms, and mobility improvements.* The fairgrounds relationship with Norwich Township and the role played in shared public facilities like the Joint Safety and Services building.* Franklin County’s role in supporting the fair, recent facility improvements, and public investment.* Public safety partnerships with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and collaboration with the County Engineer.* Future vision for the fair, stronger countywide partnerships, and plans for the new Brundige 4-H Youth Innovation Center.The Hilliard Beacon is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hilliardbeacon.substack.com/subscribe