Fryeburg Fair receives mixed reaction to metal detectors at gate

The Fryeburg Fair has made a policy change for its 174th edition of the Blue Ribbon Classic, drawing both praise and backlash on its Facebook page.

If you come to the Fryeburg Fair this year, you will have to go through a metal detector to gain entry.

At last check, the fair's post on Facebook had 903 comments and 555 shares. Here are some comments from those who are against the introduction of metal detectors.

2nd Amendment “Right to Bear Arms” The concealed carry permit allows you to conceal yourself. These are things that good citizens are allowed to do to protect themselves from people who don't obey the law. Good luck at the fair, because I will not be present and will put my life in the hands of your “security”. -Justin Ambrose

Shame on my second amendment I guess. -Taylor Turner

One of these locations is on private property if the property owner prohibits it, as the Fryeburg Fair did.

Here are some comments from those who support the introduction of metal detectors.

A sensible policy for the fair. Many thanks to the trade fair management for having the courage to make such a decision, which was certainly not taken lightly. -Justin Gamache

Thank you for keeping locals and the public safe!

I'm sorry to the insane amount of people who can't understand that it's your right to post rules. If they don't like the rules, they don't have to participate. The comments on your announcement clearly show what is wrong with society. -Laurie Beck

Love it or hate it, the Fryeburg Fair has every right to use metal detectors and ban firearms and other weapons on its grounds. Maybe it will put some people off, but I have a feeling the fair will have the big crowds it does every year.