Los Banos Rotary Club History
Fair Manager Explains Operation

Sam Spina, manager of the Merced County Spring Fair and Livestock Show, Tuesday noon outlined not members of the Rotary Club some of the problems, accomplishments and future objectives of the Spring Fair and May Day Celebration – an event which in the past ten or more years has brought outstanding recognition and acclaim to the city, plus the reputation of presenting one of the best junior division livestock shows in the state.

First, explaining the financial set-up of the Fair, Spina emphasized that most of the financing comes from the state tax on pari-mutuel betting, of which some 79 county and district fairs in the state receive 41 per cent of the 5 ½ per cent tax. The local Fair, as does most others, receives an annual allotment of $65,000 from the fund, plus some additional monies for capital outlay and expansion as the fund permits. All allocated funds are carefully audited each year by the State Department of Finance, as is the "local" fund which is required for advertising, entertainment and other necessary operational expenses.

The directors of county fairs, such as Los Banos, Spina said, are appointed by the county supervisors, whereas directors of district fairs are appointed by the governor. All expenditures for the local fair must be approved by the county supervisors, though the county does not actually participate financially, nor is there any county tax money involved.

All of the local fair buildings, equipment and properties are deeded to Merced county.

Use of Grounds

Spina particularly called attention to the fact that all fairgrounds facilities are designed and intended for as wide a community use as possible, and that the public is invited to make full use of the grounds and buildings. Some 19,000 persons visited the local fairgrounds during the past year other than during the Spring Fair period. There is no daytime charge for use of the picnic area or playgrounds, however there is a charge of $1.50 for evening use of the barbecue grounds, plus $1.50 for maintenance. This is required by state law, as is a nominal charge for use of the auditorium and exhibit buildings and kitchen. Spina said a deposit is also required for kitchen use to protect against breakage and other losses of dishes, etc. Such losses, he said, have been exceptionally low.

Future Plans

As to the future, Spina reported the recent settlement made for the defective flooring in the auditorium, and said a new floor will be installed as soon as funds can be made available.

The directors also look forward to eventual construction of two food and concession stands floral and art building, a grandstand at Henry Miller Field, and possibly the eventual construction of a swimming pool. This however, would have to be financed entirely by local funds as state money cannot be expended for such purpose.

He said Henry Miller Field is being made ready for baseball and that games will be played there in the near future. Later in the season the field will be turfed, as will the carnival area adjoining. The latter is expected to be a favorite spot for playground activities in future years.

New President

Also at the Rotary luncheon, retiring president Otto Zentner briefly thanked the members and especially the board of directors for their cooperation and support through the past year, to the program chairmen and to the numerous committee heads who carried the load for the special Rotary functions held throughout the year.

He then presented and turned over the president's gavel to incoming President Ed Evans, who in turn complimented Zentner on his concluding regime and to the membership for their continuing interest and support. Evans said his new committee and special activities program will be announced within the week.

July 5, 1957

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