THE BALLOON MAN

Local fairs are running lean, but ready for fair season

 

Riders scream at the top of their lungs as they drop toward earth in a free fall on the Super Shot ride at the Glenn County Fair in Orland on Friday. (Bill Husa/Staff Photo)
from:  orovillemr.com
By HEATHER HACKING-Staff Writer
05/18/2013
Click photo to enlargeRiders scream at the top of their lungs as they drop toward earth in a free fall on the Super...«1»If managers of local fairs have done their job well, people at the fair this year will simply have a good time. They shouldn't notice that just two years ago fair leadership was scrambling to whittle down budgets and increase revenue.
In July 2011, a meager state budget meant big cuts to fairgrounds, which in the past were helped with money for maintenance as well a things such as insurance for vehicles.
Butte County Fair
Budget tightening has been ongoing for the county fair in Gridley.
Manager Steve Kenny took over the job just this month. He has been told the budget tightening included retirement of one employee who was not replaced.
Gridley does not have as many large events, like races. The annual fair — Aug. 22-25 this year — is the largest revenue source.
Last year the fair was held for four days, vs. the traditional five. This cut down the cost of entertainment, while most people in the area will still attend one of those days.
The facility is owned by the county, and the county intends to do an audit to keep track of what repairs might be needed in the future, Kenny said.
The fairgrounds plays a role in the "social and family life" in the area from Biggs to Live Oak, the fair manager said, and county leaders recognize this.
read more:
http://www.orovillemr.com/news/ci_23273185/local-fairs-are-running-lean-but-ready-fair