State Fair preparations and safety plans are underway | News

JACKSON, MS (WLBT)- Randy Cummings spends several weeks getting ready for the Mississippi State Fair.

The company he works for puts up tents and he prepares two food booths.

This is the only fair he works but Cummings enjoys the excitement.

"Once the fair kicks off, we just kind of kick back. That's when we get to relax a little bit. Now, we're busy. We sell a lot of food but you're not running all over the place."

A new roller coaster and a variety of food vendors continue to set up, but the taffy is ready to be sold.

The 153rd state fair is a ritual for many families.

"The fair has been here so long, it's such a great tradition. It's just a lot of people, they look forward to it and depend on it for a lot of entertainment," explained Director of the Mississippi State Fair Commission Billy Orr.

More than 600,000 people are expected to attend this year's state fair. Organizers and law enforcement have been working together to ensure there's plenty of parking and everyone is safe. Hinds County deputies and Jackson police will provide security.

JPD says 80 officers will rotate shifts during the 12 day event.

"We plan on having all the parking set where it's going to be in well lit areas. You are going to see the officers riding in the marked cars with the blue lights constantly running, circling the fairgrounds," said JPD Deputy Chief Eric Wall

He says it takes about a year to work out the logistics of parking and security. He also has some advice for fairgoers.

"Put your purses and your valuables in your trunk before you get there. That will help us out. Out of sight, out of mind," reminded Wall.

As the set up for the fair wraps up, the Mississippi State Fair Commission hopes the weather will cooperate.

"If it's raining they're not gone be here, but if it's pretty they'll be here," said Orr.

The fair kicks off October 3rd. For more information visit  http://www.mdac.state.ms.us/departments/ms_fair_commission/state-fair.htm

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