Western Fairs Association Newsletter
April 2014
Service Members and Fairs Join Together
Participate in the first Fair Area & Service Member Meeting of the year.

 

For the first time in recent history, WFA member fairs and service members are joining forces for seven combined meetings. This cross-collaboration is meant to open dialogue between WFA's two largest sectors and increase the chances of learning from each other. At these meetings, the Industry Standards Committee will introduce its revised Best Practices Guidelines, based on the four standards of membership. The first combined meeting is Friday, May 9, 10 a.m. at the Dixon May Fair. Click here for a complete list of WFA Meetings & Mixers.  

Get Recognition for your Fair or Business
Achievement Awards Handbook Now Online, Entries Due November 14

As you move through the fair season, review the 52nd annual Achievement Awards Program Handbook, gather materials for entries and remember to take photos! Online registration (starting in August) makes entering a snap and Cal Poly Agribusiness students are available to assist in preparing entries. Fairs who didn't participate in last year's program will be reimbursed for entry fees thanks to several generous fairs. Remember, you must participate in the Achievement Awards Program to be eligible to receive the coveted Merrill Award. To receive updates and important information about the program visit the Achievement Awards blog run by Cal Poly.
2015 Convention, Call for Presentations
Submit your educational session proposal by April 30.

The WFA Professional Development Committee is calling for presentations for the 2015 Western Fairs Association Convention & Trade Show, January 11-14, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. All members are invited to submit proposals for review. Topics can cover a broad range from marketing and operations to industry trends and creative management. The Convention also offers a wide variety of settings from whole room keynotes to workshops and breakout meetings. All topics are welcome for consideration. Have a session topic you'd like to present at our premier event?  Click here. 
New WFA Website    

WFA is currently working with Service Member Saffire Events on a new interactive website that will allow you to add key dates to your Outlook Calendar, build a profile, make contact information updates and interact with others in a member-only area. You'll even be able to pay your dues online, hassle free! Plus, it will be mobile friendly.

Look for the new website by June 1. Convention information will also be on this main site and will be updated by August.

Stay tuned for more exciting developments!
Feature Fair Tour 

WFA President Pat Kress, PK Consulting, will accompany WFA members on a whirlwind tour of the Pima County Fair during the annual WFA Feature Fair Tour, April 23-25. Register now.

 

Enjoy multiple receptions, hosted meals with a chance to talk to key personnel, and even a tequila tasting at the fair's Cantina restaurant. Attend a Bret Michaels' concert, learn about the fair's entertainment strategy, get behind-the-scenes tours of Pima County Fair's most innovative departments and the RCS carnival. And more! 
Important Dates   
 
April 23
WFA Meeting & Mixer
Pima County Fair
9:30 a.m., Sunset Cantina

April 23-25
Feature Fair Tour:
Pima County Fair

May 9
Combined WFA Fair Area & Service Member Meeting
Dixon May Fair
10 a.m., Beer Garden

May 23
WFA Meeting & Mixer
Sacramento County Fair
9 a.m., Board Room

View a complete list of WFA Meetings & Mixers and scheduled Open Houses.
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