The Salinas Valley Fair Heritage Foundation is proud to announce that with a $70,000 donation from Salinas based, Growers Express, the loan for the Topo Ranch Events Center and the Rava Ranch Arena at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds are paid off. 

“Everyone involved in this effort is thrilled that the barns are paid off,” said campaign co-chairman Rich Casey. “I thank all of our amazing supporters over the years and all the Heritage members who have worked so hard to accomplish this goal, especially my partner in crime, Kirt Andrus.  For eight years, this project, and this loan, were never far from Kirt’s mind, and he was completely dedicated to getting this thing done!”

In sticking with their mission statement, Heritage members have already announced their next project, the construction of new restrooms adjacent to the barns, as well as a new Livestock office and Conference Room.  The new project will require nearly $400,000 for the structures. The foundation has earmarked all monies brought in during the Salinas Valley Fair for the project. 

The Heritage Foundation was formed in 2001 in an effort to help raise capital and awareness for the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds.  Planning for the barns started in 2003 as the brainchild of former Salinas Valley Fair CEO Paul Slocum.  Now, eight years later, the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds has two debt-free, landmark structures on Highway 101. Thee barns provide opportunities for thousands of kids at fair time and as a venue for scores of other major events throughout the year.

The mission of the Heritage Foundation is …”to preserve and enrich the heritage of the Salinas Valley Fair and showcase agricultural industries to the community. It will offer support to the 4-H and FFA programs, create agricultural education opportunities, promote public awareness and support for ongoing projects sponsored by the Salinas Valley Fair in maintaining and improving the current facility to further service the needs of the community…”