Here are a pair of follow-up articles related to my August 8 "State Fair Bleeds Cash" post here on Mattchat.
Both are from Scott Reeder:
A few excerpts from Scott's writings:
-- The two state fairs, which have lost $71.2 million over the last 20 years, have long been a patronage bastion.
-- The intent of reforms passed in 1993 by the (Illinois) Legislature was for Illinois' two state fairs to be self-sustaining. That hasn't been the case.
-- (Amy) Bliefnick, who has been state fair manager for 10 years, said she isn't certain it's possible for the state fair to operate in the black. But she added the fair provides a terrific experience for visitors from across the state.
-- The (Butter Cow) is encased in glass and refrigerated to preserve it during sweltering August days. I couldn’t help but think what a perfect illustration this is of Illinois State Government. Where else but Springfield would a shrine be generated out of fat? Just about everyone – except the bureaucrats - sees fat in Illinois government. But little of the fat ever gets trimmed.
I will state this again.... I love the Illinois State Fair.
I have some wonderful memories of being there with family and friends: 4-H, concerts, 25-cent ice cream bars.
It's a fantastic tradition for our state.
But, it must pay for itself.
That quote above about it not being possible for the Fair to run in the black?
POPPYCOCK!!
The bleeding must be stopped.
The easiest and most obvious way to start?
DITCH DUQUOIN
Out for now....
Matt