Last week, the Sanders County Board of Health decided to cancel the Sanders County Fair. The local 4-H clubs are still trying to decide how, or if, members can show and sell their animals.

The Board of Health made a tough decision. Many of those are being made. Cities, counties and businesses are making masks mandatory. Some businesses have decided to close to the public.

This week, we have three confirmed COVID-19 cases in Sanders County residents.

The Fair Board was doing everything they could and taking extra precautions to keep people safe. But the fact remains that it's hard to control an environment where people are in and out constantly. We get so many out-of-town visitors to the fair. It's a superb event that is still free to the public and always gets rave reviews.

But ensuring that our residents are safe is a top priority. The Board of Health is looking out for our residents. We will miss the fair. Not just as visitors, but the economic impact to the Plains community and the county is going to be a big hit.

Our local leaders are looking out for the residents of Sanders County. Thank you for making those tough decisions.