Karen and Jay share thoughts on the power of belief – and how in the end, yes, it all can work out.’ With guest appearance, near the end, by friend, Rhonda Burns, and special thanks to Jim Morrison for his expert videography.

In our everyday lives, it’s important to take time to enjoy the simple pleasures. And what could be better than Food Trucks and County Fairs? Either taken together – or separately, these two things are just pure fun.

From the time I was a little boy, going to the local, county, or even state fair has brought me immense joy. Immediately the smell of popcorn, cotton candy and especially the smell of fried dough, along with the sounds of music and people on amusement rides come to mind. Across the US, fairs have long been gatherings that bring people and communities together to celebrate the unique offerings that a town, region, or state have to offer. Not only that, they’re also incredible sources of commerce for local businesses, helping drive new connections that can drive growth and prosperity. Right here in New Hampshire, the Deerfield Fair, the Hopkinton Fair, and the Cornish Fair, among others – all bring thousands of visitors.

I’m reminded of a story I was once told by a farmer while I was on the road in the Midwest about just how formative and important fairs had been to his life. From a young age, state and county fairs were a mainstay in his family, namely because it was where they were able to do most of their business for the year and see many friends they typically only get to see once or twice a year. He shared how keeping their livestock healthy and fed throughout the year taught him some important, and sometimes hard lessons in responsibility. Not only that, but it taught him about the importance of community and how giving back actually helps pay it forward. Many of his longest relationships, dating back to when he was a child, started right there at his local county fair and the bonds they share continue to pay dividends, personally and professionally.



Whether you’re a food truck enthusiast, a thrill seeker, looking to learn more about how to get involved in your community, and more, fairs have been a resilient staple of American culture. In the advent of theme parks, resorts, and some of the other luxuries that have developed and evolved over the last hundred years, fairs have stood the test of time. A few years back when the state of California was facing a budget deficit, then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger tried to sell public fairgrounds as a means of raising much needed cash, yet public opposition was so strong his efforts ultimately didn’t succeed. Fairs offer a forum that not only creates opportunities for commerce, supporting farmers, restaurants, artists, and bringing in important revenue from fairgoers, but even more importantly, create life-long memories for families and friends that make life just a little bit sweeter.

The ‘New’ Ice Cream Truck - Food Trucks!

There’s Nothing Better than New England County Fairs!