Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) The Central Wisconsin State Fair Board of Directors voted to postpone a decision on the contract with All Things Wild’s White Tiger Discovery exhibit for two weeks so more research can be done.
CWSF Executive Director Dale Christiansen said, “The meeting tonight was very information-packed. It was somewhat one-sided I felt, but other than that I thought it was a productive meeting. We’re going to go back and do some more research and come up with a decision in a couple weeks.”
Christiansen has defended its decision to bring the controversial exhibit to the fair, stating that from his understanding, the allegations against All Things Wild were the result of an employee who has since left.
“The fair’s claim that All Things Wild has cleaned up its act is blatantly false,” said Wisconsin State Director Megan Nicholson. “The outfit has not acted quickly to resolve violations identified by the USDA and has frequently been cited for the same issues. Since 2012, they have been cited 40 times for violations of minimal regulations that the Animal Welfare Act pertains. Which is why the federal government is seeking to revoke their license.
Alderman Tom Witzel voiced liability concerns and the effect the controversial exhibit would have on fair attendance. “I would really hate to see the fair suffer from a lack of attendance because of such a controversial exhibit. I would rather see us have things that are going to bring additional people in rather than something so controversial.”
The board will hold a special meeting on July 29th at 7:00 PM to make a decision.
Animal Welfare Group Continues Push to Cancel White Tiger Exhibit
