HARRISBURG- Citing their commitment to the state's agriculture industry, Agriculture Secretary Russell C. Redding recognized 40 outstanding fair volunteers from communities throughout the state as part of the Fair Ambassador Program.

"This year I had the opportunity to visit 40 fairs throughout the state and saw for myself the commitment of fair volunteers," said Redding. "These dedicated individuals put their regular lives on hold and work very long hours to make sure fairgoers enjoy their visit."In leading by example, our fair boards, committee members and volunteers ensure our young people are surrounded by great role models and dedicated community leaders."Five local fair ambassadors recognized are: Robert S. Silliman, Carbon County Fair; Donald Kuntz, Schnecksville Community Fair; Robert and Kathy Evanchalk, Schuylkill County Fair; Donald Everett, West End Fair.Pennsylvania is home to 114 county and local fairs that bring agriculture to life for more than six million people each year. Out of that number, 36 are century fairs and four are bicentennial, those in operation 100 and 200 years, respectively.Fifteen of the state's fairs offer live harness racing as one of the nation's leading fair racing programs.For more information about Pennsylvania's fairs and to see a complete list of 2010 Fair Ambassadors, visit

www.agriculture.state.pa.us and search "Fairs."