Aug. 19, 2020
HARRISBURG – In response to Wednesday’s announcement that in-person activities will be eliminated at the 2021 Pennsylvania Farm Show, Rep. Mark Keller (R-Perry/Cumberland) voiced concerns about the impact on youth exhibitors who show livestock and present exhibits.
“I think it’s going to be devastating. Not only have our young farmers invested time and money in preparing their animals for the Farm Show, but also these are the same teenagers from rural communities without access to high-speed internet for the ‘virtual’ components,” said Keller, who is chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced in-person activities will not be held at the Jan. 9-15 show, citing concerns about COVID-19. He said the event will be conducted virtually, with specifics yet to be decided.
The Farm Show typically draws 6,000 animals and 10,000 competitive exhibits.
Keller said the announcement had few details and does little to assuage the concerns of families who have been preparing for the Farm Show.
“Like much of the coronavirus guidance coming from the governor’s administration, we are again left in the dark,” he said.
Representative Mark Keller
86th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jennifer Fitch
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