Navajo Nation Fair Now Under Nation's Museum Direction

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

New Leadership

WINDOW ROCK, ARIZONA - In a move to streamline efficiency and maximize exposure, Navajo President Ben Shelly appointed Navajo Nation Museum Director Meanuelito Wheeler as the new director of the Navajo fair, which increases Mr. Wheeler's duties.

"The Navajo Nation fair is our showcase to the world," said President Ben Shelly. "It's a time of celebration, a place where we come together to share and exchange, to renew and enrich our lives."

This year's fair is September 5-11, Monday through Sunday.

"Tourism is a huge undertaking and we need to focus on more economic development to create more jobs. It is also an opportunity for the Navajo Nation Fair to gain momentum from resources the arts and culture of the Navajo Nation Museum has to offer," said the president.

On July 5, 2011, Frederick H. White, executive director of Navajo Division of Natural Resources reorganized the responsibilities of the fair grounds and facilities, sports center, wellness center, and all special events including the Navajo Nation Fair and Treaty Days Celebration to the Museum. Currently, the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department and the Museum are reorganizing staff and duties, including transferring the Special Events staff to the Museum.

"The transition will be smooth, proactive, cost effective and more in the right direction," stated Executive Director White. "It is an opportunity for the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department to capitalize on tourism dollars and focus on facility improvements. Our annual fair is a showcase of the Navajo Nation. The Museum and the Navajo Nation Fair have a synergetic relationship with their arts and culture programs. There are benefits with this change and we will see harvest."

The Navajo Nation Fair has been with Navajo Parks and Recreation Department for many years. Since appointed in 2001, to oversee the Special Events Section as Navajo Parks and Recreation Department Manager Ray Russell has had many accomplishments and proud moments.

"The change brings new opportunities to grow for both Navajo Parks and Recreation Department and the Navajo Nation Museum. I fully support the re-organization," stated Parks and Recreation Manager Russell. "The quality of parks and their facilities will be greater than before. There are many positive things this change will make happen."

The Shelly-Jim Administration was looking for a more effective and streamlined operation of the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department.

President Shelly concluded, "Our goal is to beautify our parks and recreation areas, and maintain them to the highest standards possible. We appreciate the Museum's cooperation and support to take on this economic endeavor. Through Mr. Manny Wheeler's leadership, we are confident this transfer will be successful."

posted July 25, 2011 7:30 am edt