As summer draws to a close, what better way to end it then with a trip to the New York State Fair? Starting Aug. 23 to Sept. 4, the fair will be held at the fairgrounds in Syracuse for almost two weeks of family fun. With last year breaking the attendance record with over 1 million visitors, Acting Director Troy Waffner has prepared by scheduling the fair to have a Wednesday start date so as many people, who travel far and wide, as possible are able to enjoy the fun and festivities The Great New York State Fair has to offer.

I myself am excited to celebrate the 41st annual Dairy Day with some delicious milkshakes, viewing the new butter sculpture and sampling dozens of locally made cheeses. Of course, the most fun will be had at the New York State “Big Cheese” Auction, where visitors can bid on a 40-pound block of Gold Medal Cheddar. Being a resident of a rural town in which the dairy industry plays an important role, Dairy Day is always my favorite day of the New York State Fair. This is a fantastic way of supporting New York’s dairy business, an industry we should be extremely proud of. Not only are dairy farms an important part of the rural economy, but these businesses are made up of strong, hard-working and loyal New Yorkers who love their state and who deserve our support and respect.

New to the fair this year are paved walkways in Kiddie Land to make it easier to push strollers and wheelchairs, along with benches and 500 new picnic tables to create rest areas while people enjoy the festivities. Due to the large attendance rate, almost 1,000 additional parking spots will be added to help ease traffic congestion. There will also be a new big-top circus with a high-dive act, high-wire act and acrobatic show for fair goers of all ages.

So while summer is winding down, not all the fun is over! I encourage New Yorkers to take a break and spend some time with their families one last time before school begins and life gets a little more hectic.

I want to know what you think about this or any other legislative matter. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@nyassembly.gov or by calling my office at 315-493-3909