The governor is setting an excessively high bar for what it would take to be sure that the New York State Fair opens on time this year. His pessimism is infuriating, considering that opening day is still 16 weeks away, 17 weeks if they use the traditional opening day instead of going five days earlier as has been announced.

In The Hound’s view, the 2020 Fair must go on.

This whole pandemic mess has caused a lot of pain, most acutely experienced by those who have been infected, some tragically.That is understood. But can we really cancel the State Fair, which would likely be the final crushing blow to a community that may be coming out of a summer without restaurant dining, movies, beaches, festivals, sports and concerts?

There must be a way to rescue a little of the joy and spirit to which we all look forward every year. Of course, we’re all hoping for some breakthroughs on testing and treatment. Beyond that, creativity and intelligent planning must be employed to rescue this Fair. And they have to start now.

If Cuomo wants to get serious about getting ready for an August Fair opening, he could begin by cutting back on his daily marathon television appearance. He repeats himself consistently and takes much longer than necessary to get to a point. He could instead be working on a plan to get ready for the New York State Fair.

This year’s Fair could be radically different if necessary. It could be modified in length or size. Maybe some events would be cancelled, while some go on.

There may have to be adjustments and precautions, but 17 weeks is a long time to figure that out and prepare. The economic impact of the Fair on the State, particularly Central New York, is enormous. The vendors, the farmers, restaurateurs, temporary workers, musicians and the midway company all depend on those two weeks of booming business.

Just as important, people will likely be so emotionally hurting by August that they won’t be staying home regardless of what government leaders tell them. The will be desperate for activity and recreation and willing to accept some level of risk to save their sanity.

The New York Sate Fair is more than a festival. It’s an essential part of our community’s spirit and economy. Finding a way to make sure it goes on is a very difficult undertaking, but well worth it.