CNN iReport

The Michigan State Fair is closing after 161 years due to the economy.  I found this little sign taped to the stable door inside the horse stables where the majestic Percherons and Clydesdales were waiting to be shown.

I attended the fair for the first time this year and it was bittersweet. As a seasoned state fair visitor (I attended the Calif. State Fair almost all of my life) I can say that I had an awesome time in Michigan. The second sign I found is a historical sign that explains the fair's history. Sadly this state fair will only be a memory for the people and visitors of Michigan.

This fair exemplified what is happening in America. As I walked along a row of food vendors, a parade began to pass by. First the Budweiser Clydesdales passed pulling their cart and then a slow moving parade of American classic cars passed by. Some of the cars would never be made again while all of the manufacturers are in bankruptcy. All of these families, so many who built these cars in Detroit have lost their jobs, pensions and healthcare because of the crumbling car industry. Now these same families are losing their state fair.  Save the Michigan State Fair!