Some workers, vendors and performers at Sullivan County Fair still awaiting payment

Several workers, vendors, and musical performers from the inaugural Sullivan County Fair say they still have not been paid, two months after the event wrapped up. Organizers blame significantly lower-than-projected attendance for the funding shortfall, leaving many who fulfilled their contracts empty-handed. Fair organizer Ralph Strahorn emphasizes that the event was put on by Sullivan County Tennessee Fair Inc., a private nonprofit completely independent of the county government, meaning no tax dollars are available to cover the gap. Strahorn says legitimate payment obligations are being processed. In the meantime, options presented to affected partners include accepting a long-term monthly payment plan or waiting for future fundraising efforts. However, facing a prolonged lack of communication, some workers say they are now exploring legal options to secure their missing pay.