Poultry, like this handsome fellow photographed by Hound photog Nick LoPresti in 2014, Blue ribbon bird 14will return after missing last Fair as part of a precautionary policy to prevent illness.

Speaking of bird-brained ideas, our illustrious Governor is currently seeking bids from companies proposing to manage the New York State Fair. State Fair Hound has a few questions for the Gov:

What evidence exists that private operators could or would do a better job?

What financial terms could be contracted that would provide an advantage of state taxpayers?

Would longtime, experienced, expert Fair employees be retained or replaced by staff DENNIS B 15totally unfamiliar with the specific characteristics, needs, traditions and history of our Fair?

Chevrolet Court concerts are already being booked by an outside firm, Live Nation. Has that created a better line-up and a more satisfying experience for Fair patrons?

Specifically, what decisions and operations would fall within the authority of the outside contractor? Which would be handled by state or Fair employees?

The Hound tends to believe that it’s always a bad idea to hand over a critical operation to someone whose primary objective is maximizing their own profits. Fair employees are dedicated to making it the best event for their customers—that’s their full-time job. The Hound thinks that’s the way it should stay.