COURTLAND, Va. — A little over a year ago, winds reaching speeds of 80 to 90 mph swept through the Franklin-Southampton County Fairgrounds, devastating many structures and resulting in the cancellation of the fair.

Previous coverage: Fair canceled after storm damages Franklin-Southampton County grounds Fair canceled after storm damages Franklin-Southampton County grounds

Last summer, organizers promised a return to the fair this year, and they fulfilled their commitment.

Glenn Joyner, the president of the fair, was actively preparing for the first night of Fair Week, ensuring all final preparations were completed.

This year’s fair is back in action after a severe weather event in which straight-line winds tore through the fairgrounds.

Joyner recalled how the winds initially came ov

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