FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 23, 2006
EXPLORE NEW YORK STATE CANAL SYSTEM AT THE 160TH ANNUAL
STATE FAIR IN SYRACUSE, AUGUST 24-SEPTEMBER 4
Expanded Booth Space, New Displays and Interactive Model Lock Encourage Visitors to “Cruise the Past…Unlock the Adventure” on NYS Canals
New York State Canal Corporation Director Carmella R. Mantello today invited residents and visitors to the Empire State to explore and learn more about the New York State Canal System at the 160th Annual Great New York State Fair in Syracuse, which runs from Thursday, August 24th -September 4th. The Canal Corporation will have a new, expanded presence at the Fair this year with new displays that highlight the history, beauty and recreational opportunities along the Canal System and Canalway Trail, as well as an interactive model lock, giveaways and activity books for children.
“Thanks to our partners at the State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Canal System will have an even bigger and better presence at this year’s State Fair,” Director Mantello said. “We look forward to giving visitors a glimpse of all the fun and exciting activities available along New York’s historic canals, both on the water and in canalside communities. I encourage everyone to come learn more about the waterways that shaped our State and nation and plan your next vacation on the New York State Canal System.”
Located within the State Park at the Fair, near the entrance to Chevy Court, the Canal Corporation space features a 20’ by 40’ tent encompassing a newly designed 10’ by 10’ display, a pair of authentic lock gates, a working model of a canal lock, a model tug boat, navigational buoys, and historical information about today’s canals. Canal employees will be on hand to answer questions from the public, demonstrate the model lock and distribute maps and informational materials and activity books for children.
The Great New York State Fair is a 12-day summer showcase of the best of New York State's agriculture, entertainment, education, industry, and technology. For more information, including concert schedules and a map of the State Fairgrounds, please visit: www.nysfair.org.
The New York State Canal System is comprised of four historic waterways, the Erie, the Champlain, the Oswego and the Cayuga-Seneca Canals. Spanning 524 miles across New York State, the waterway links the Hudson River, Lake Champlain, Lake Ontario, the Finger Lakes and the Niagara River with communities rich in history and culture.
For more information about news and attractions along the New York State Canal System, please call 1-800-4CANAL4 or visit www.canals.state.ny.us.