[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 14]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 19388-19389]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MANATEE COUNTY FAIR

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. VERN BUCHANAN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 2, 2015

  Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the Manatee 
County Fair's 100th anniversary.
  On October 21st, 1915 a group that eventually became the Manatee 
Chamber of Commerce approved a project that would draw members of the 
community together for festive celebrations and friendly competition. 
The Manatee County Fair was born, and opened its tents to the 
neighborhood for the first time on February 28th, 1916.
  The 1916 Manatee County Fair started with a budget of just $500. Year 
after year, the fair grew creating an economic boost for the community 
while providing fun and enjoyment for locals and visitors alike.
  Eventually, the fair became so appreciated that the denizens of 
Bradentown (currently Bradenton, Florida) purchased over 60 acres of 
land so the fair could continue to thrive for generations to come. As 
time went on, the Manatee County Fair gave Floridians an opportunity to 
unite and celebrate in good times and bad.
  The Manatee County Fair has fostered community pride for 100 years. 
Throughout the

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past century, the fair strengthened relationships between local 
business owners, shop keepers, vendors, artisans, and civic leaders. 
Community Members have shared in the pride of hosting such a well-loved 
event.
  It is my honor to recognize the Manatee County Fair's 100th 
anniversary. This great event has strengthened our community and been a 
source of civic pride for the past century.

                          ____________________