ESCANABA — In mid-January, several members of the U.P. State Fair team attended the 140th Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions convention in Grand Rapids. For me, one of the most valuable aspects of attending the event is the opportunity to put what I learn into action.

A key takeaway from a workshop presented by Nathan Lambright, Hillsdale County Undersheriff, was the importance of proactive communication and meeting with first responders before an event takes place. Last week, Delta County Emergency Management Coordinator, Paul Geyer, organized such a meeting to discuss safety planning for the 2025 U.P. State Fair and other large events held on the fairgrounds.

This gathering brought together State, County, and Local Law Enforcement Officers, Search and Rescue (Rescue Task Force), 911 Authority and Central Dispatch, OSF St. Francis Hospital, City of Escanaba Electric Department, Delta Force PI, Rampart Ambulance, Skerbeck Entertainment Group, Guardian Flight, and members of the Delta County Board and UPSF Authority to review emergency protocols, assess potential risks, and develop a coordinated response plan.

Open discussions like these not only enhance event safety for attendees, vendors, and staff but also strengthen partnerships with the dedicated professionals who play a critical role in community security.

As we continue planning future events — especially the fair, the largest event in our region — we remain committed to prioritizing safety for families and friends through these essential pre-event meetings as encouraged during the presentation. Attending the MAFE convention is always just the beginning–the real impact comes when we put what we’ve learned into action and, hopefully, never let the inspiration fade!

A sincere thank you to all our emergency personnel and first responders across the Upper Peninsula for their dedication and commitment to keeping our fairs and events safe. Special thanks to Paul Geyer for organizing this important meeting, where attendees shared their expertise–motivating us all to apply what we’ve learned and turn that knowledge into action.

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Vickie Micheau is executive director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce