07/29/2026
They say home is where the heart is, and while my new home is in Kansas, being back in my original home in SLO County for the California Mid-State Fair pulled on the heartstrings more than usual. For some, the county fair gets a bad rap, and I get it. But as I took a step back and reflected on everything I’ve been fortunate enough to do, see, and experience in my life, it all goes back to the first pig I bought and showed at the county fair. It’s truly amazing how one project, one animal, and one year of 4-H can change the trajectory of your life and impact you in ways you can’t even fathom. The same can even be said for those who don’t continue a career in animal agriculture. If it weren’t for the lessons learned, the people we met, and the experiences in both the green and white and blue and gold, we wouldn’t be who we are today.
On top of everything I’m thankful for with showing livestock, watching our community come out and support the junior exhibitors with an auction bringing in more than $3.5 million is astounding. The county fair might not be everyone’s favorite place, but if you step back and reflect - would you be where you are without it?
Thank you to the CMSF Livestock Office who had WWC out again for the fourth year. Thank you to the incredible crew that came out to help picture everything. And finally, thanks to the friends, family and all exhibitors who made this week one to remember.
All photos can be found at whitneywhitaker.org
