Carnival & Fair News

  Amusement industry veteran, Mark Cox, passed away on March 19, 2025 at the age of 64.In his early life, he grew up in Missouri experiencing farm life where he shared so many fond memories with his siblings and uncle Gordon. His home life wasn’t storybook, he came from a broken home that lacked love. He rose from adversity and vowed to one day be a better man when he had his own family. He kept his word to his family he would later have with Stephanie. He was a devoted father and husband, working countless hours and overtime to give them the life he never had. No matter how many hours he worked he always came home with a smile and love spending quality time with his family boating on weekends. He would always say that his wife and kids happiness made him happy and family is all you have in this world. He was the true epitome of everything a father, husband, brother, uncle, and grandfather should be, a real poster child. Nobody loved more deeply and selflessly than Mark, who was ...   [read more]

  It is with great sadness to report the passing of Terry Swyear, co-owner of southern Illinois based Swyear Amusements.  Mr. Swyear passed peacefully after battling cancer and other issues.   Our thoughts and prayers are with the Swyear Family and their friends. Arrangements will be held as follows: Monday, March 17, 20254:00-7:00 visitationHeil-Schuesser & Sinn Funeral Home101 S. Jackson St. New Athens, IL 62264(618) 475-2151 In lieu of flowers donations appreciated: Terry Swyear Memorial Scholarship 2025SLA-St. Louis P.O.  Box 345 Hazelwood, MO 63042 Freeburg Masonic Lodge205 W. High St  Feeburg, IL 62243 AINAD Shriners. 608 St. Louis Ave East St. Louis, IL 62201   [read more]

  Fairs and festivals industry advocate and advisor, Greater Ohio Showmen's Association (GOSA) is celebrating 75 years of impactful leadership in 2025. The non-profit organization, 455 members strong, represents the enterprises of modern midways at fairs and festivals across the State of Ohio. The Ohio Concessionaires Association was established in 1950, changing its name to GOSA in 1953 to serve the growing community of food, rides, and game businesses on the modern midway. As Bill Sterling, GOSA president notes, "we have achieved a significant impact over the years for our members and the industry in Ohio, and nationally too." GOSA spearheaded initiatives creating the Ohio Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Council, and the first Rider Responsibility Law in the United States. Recognizing the value of the Association's leadership, State regulators have awarded GOSA two seats on the Advisory Council. In addition, GOSA is represented on the Ohio ...   [read more]