A 100 years of fun, farming and family

Dear Friend, 

One of my favorite times of the year is July because I get to head to Harrington, along with thousands of other people from all over Delmarva, to go to the Delaware State Fair. This year, the fair celebrated 100 years of supporting agriculture and showcasing music, games, food and fun for all ages! 

Agriculture is a major part of Delaware’s economy, and, throughout the years, the State Fair gives everyone an opportunity to see farming up close: from antique tractors to the latest in industry technology to the many horses, cows, pigs, sheep, goats and other livestock on display. Agriculture is thriving in the First State, but we can always do more to support our growers and producers. That’s why I was pleased to welcome Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, to this year’s Fair and show him how our small state is one big agricultural powerhouse. Last year, I worked with fellow U.S. Senator Chris Coons on an amendment to help new farmers gain access to resources for conservation practices in the Farm Bill. I am proud to say that it was included – and passed – and is now being implemented to help the next generation of farmers succeed.

At the Fair, my staff has been on hand each day to meet Delawareans young and old and hear to their thoughts and concerns. We find out how I am doing at my job, and what I can be doing to better serve each of you. We also hold a raffle each night to give away an American flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol. This year, we gave American flags to 10 lucky winners hailing from Wilmington to Salisbury and many places in between!

Just a few paces down from my booth in the Delaware Building, the Department of Elections had its new voting booths on display. These new voting booths will help prevent fraud and provide a paper trail of Delawarean’s votes. I even had the chance to try it out, and it was easy to use! 

As the centennial Delaware State Fair comes to a close, I’m reminded that Delaware has a wonderful tradition of coming together in Kent County to celebrate our agricultural history and have some family fun. I hope I had a chance to meet you there, and I hope you created wonderful memories with your friends and family.

God bless,

Tom Carper