June Kicks Off California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month
Sacramento, Calif (PRWEB) June 01, 2015 -- California Fairgrounds Appreciation Month kicks off today, marking not only the official start of fair season, but serving as a reminder of the vital role the state’s 76 fairgrounds provide to their communities 365 days a year, according to the Western Fairs Association (WFA).
The organization also praised Governor Brown for his recognition of the fairgrounds by committing funds in his proposed budget to help California’s fairs improve infrastructure and other operations, which were neglected during the previous years with budget shortfalls.
“Governor Brown is someone who truly appreciates the importance of California fairgrounds,” said Troy Bowers, president of Western Fairs Association. “He realizes that our fairgrounds provide a safe haven during emergencies, serve as vital community hubs and boost local economies throughout the year.”
Bowers said that Fairgrounds Appreciation Month is a time to remind Californians about how dedicated fairs are to their communities.
“California’s 76 fairgrounds serve their communities in meaningful ways year-round. Fairgrounds drive local economies and provide a venue for a wide range of activities and essential services, especially during natural disasters when they serve as evacuation centers for residents and staging areas for emergency workers.”
In the past several years, crucial state funding to support fairgrounds was eliminated due to state budget shortfalls, he said. Fortunately, this year’s budget includes funding to assist with some of the major infrastructure challenges that these fairs are facing.
“Despite all of the work that we do for our communities, California’s fairgrounds have suffered from a lack of funds,” Bowers said. “Governor Brown’s pledge to seek initial funding for fairs this year will help provide a foundation for our network of fairgrounds to rebuild infrastructure and operations so we will be able to benefit Californians for years to come.”
Californians interested in finding out about the fairgrounds in their communities can learn more at the Western Fairs Association website. They can also follow Fairgrounds Appreciation Month updates via Twitter @westernfairs and Facebook.
Ashley Clark, [email protected], +1 (916) 947-8568, [email protected]
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