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Annual agri fair postponed
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Posted on May 04 2006
Organizers of the annual “Mes Lancheros” slated this month have postponed the agricultural fair to later this year because of the lack of money.
Saipan Agricultural Fair Association president and committee chair Isidoro Cabrera regretfully told the Saipan Tribune that the committee decided last week to delay the annual celebration, not just because of lack of funding but because it doesn’t have any funding at all.
Cabrera said he would like to let all farmers and ranchers know that the fair, which was scheduled for May 27, has now been moved to Dec. 2, 2006.
This is not the first time the association has postponed the much-awaited agricultural fair. Back in 1999, Cabrera recalled that the association was also forced to move the event to a later date.
“We would like to inform the participants in advance,” Cabrera said, adding that there are some participants who might have been preparing for the agricultural fair this year. “Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate them.”
The 27th Saipan Agricultural Fair will need at least $20,000 from the local government, but due to the economic climate in the CNMI, Cabrera said, the fair would not be able to push through as planned.
Cabrera said he met with Gov. Benigno R. Fitial this week and informed him about the situation.
Cabrera said he understands the financial condition of the government but he insists that he has not lost hope. “It’s just a postponement. We will still have it in December.”
The Agricultural Fair will still be held at the Civic Center Beach in Susupe. The fair will attract at least 40 participants for the plant category and 30 ranchers for the animal category.
Last year, the annual agricultural fair recognized the efforts of SAFA’s membership in providing healthier produce for the CNMI community.
Last year’s “Mes Lancheros” featured over 35 concession booths, mostly members of SAFA’s Sabalu Market, which sold hot lunches, barbecue, cold drinks, and traditional woven items. A carnival ride was also set up for the enjoyment of the children.
For more information, farmers and ranchers can contact Cabrera at 287-0571.
