Billy Long: “The Seventh Congressional District of Missouri's economy has a significant dependence on seasonal outdoor amusement and…”

“The Seventh Congressional District of Missouri's economy has a significant dependence on seasonal outdoor amusement and entertainment including the Ozark Empire Fair, the carnivals on the midways of county fairs, and the nation's favorite vacation spot, Branson. These for profit and not for profit enterprises employ thousands of Ozarkians, some year-round and the majority just in the season. Branson in the Missouri Ozarks draws about nine million visitors a year, mainly during a nine-month season. From the world-famous Silver Dollar City to the celebrated country music venues and all attractions in between, including excellent bass fishing, world class golf, youth baseball tournaments, and endless outdoor adventures, Branson is a premier destination in America. But these are not normal times. Springfield, Missouri is home to the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). Agricultural Fairs--county fairs, state fairs and regional ag shows-- are deeply rooted in our heritage and history, with the mission to promote and advance agriculture, horticulture, domestic industry, with a focused emphasis on youth leadership development through competitions, education, and leadership opportunities. Most fairs, a total of 2,092 in the US, also provide exceptional educational activities to help today's Americans understand the importance of farming and the source of the food on their plate.…”