State Fair Returned $250,000 to Community Programs

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NOVI — The expanded 2013 Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, held over Labor Day Weekend, experienced a 50 percent increase from the Fair event held in 2012 and more than $250,000 returned to support community programs.

 “We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support for the new Michigan State Fair as a private sector event”, says Blair Bowman, proprietor of the Suburban Collection Showplace.  “The State Fair was truly one of the most community focused, positive events we have ever hosted at the Showplace. We look very forward to 2014, as we are already formulating ideas and plans for how we can grow the Fair and enhance the experience for all who attend.”

More than $250,000 was returned to a wide variety of community and charitable programs, including the Detroit Shriners charities, Rotary and Lions Clubs, local police and fire benevolent societies, and the City of Novi Parks and Recreation and Public Library programs. A brand new Urban and Rural Agricultural Youth Scholarship Program debuted over the summer, with support from the Detroit Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Detroit Shriners organization, aimed at nurturing interest in growing fresh local food in communities across the state. The State Fair also launched Urban Farming Initiatives across the state are serving as an important boost in helping cities reclaim blighted areas and begin to thrive.

Looking forward to Labor Day Weekend, 2014, plans are well underway to again expand the footprint of the Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair westward along the I-96 freeway, doubling the Shrine Circus performance tent area, presented by Bright House Networks, adding additional rides to the Arnold Amusement Midway, and also offering more outdoor attractions for Fairgoers.

For more information, visit michiganstatefairllc.com