Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil to Host 48th Annual Capitol Frog Jump after Introducing SB 1261 to Support California Fairs
SACRAMENTO – Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson) is hosting the 48th Annual Capitol Frog Jump on Wednesday, May 8th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the West Side of the Capitol. This highly anticipated contest has lawmakers, staff, and members of the media compete against each other for bragging rights and the opportunity to advance to the Grand Finals at the Calaveras County Fair.
The Capitol Frog Jump, an unofficial kick-off to Senate District 4's Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jump Jubilee, commemorates the story that launched Mark Twain’s career in 1867, “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.” The first Frog Jump was staged in Angels Camp in 1928 to celebrate the paving of Main Street; just under half a century later, the Frog Jump became a tradition the State Capitol would come to embrace.
Senator Alvarado-Gil expressed her excitement for the event, stating, "The Capitol Frog Jump not only celebrates California's rich history but also brings our community together in a fun and spirited competition. It’s an honor to be part of such a cherished tradition."
Last year’s winner for the farthest jump hailed from Assemblymember Chen’s office, while Senator Alvarado-Gil’s office clinched the shortest jump title. Grace Leekley with the California Morning Report was coined the media winner.
The Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jump Jubilee, an international event that draws 30,000 to 50,000 visitors annually from all over the world, hold a special place in Senator Alvarado-Gil’s Senate District 4.
In conjunction with her commitment to supporting California's fairs, Senator Alvarado-Gil has introduced SB 1261, a bill aimed at increasing funding and support for local and state fairs. California is home to 78 fairs, including 23 county fairs, two citrus fruit fairs, and the California Exposition and State Fair (Cal Expo). These fairs serve as vital community hubs and play a crucial role during natural disasters and emergencies.
Speaking about SB 1261, Senator Alvarado-Gil stated, "Fairgrounds are more than just entertainment venues; they are essential resources for our communities, especially during times of crisis. SB 1261 aims to ensure that our fairs receive the support they need to continue serving our communities effectively."
SB 1261 would cap the cost of administering the allocation of funds to fairs, ensuring these costs do not diminish the amount of sales tax revenue intended for District Agricultural Associations (DAAs). The bill will streamline the funding process and maximize the impact of resources allocated to support California's fairs.
Senator Alvarado-Gil represents the 4th Senate District including the Counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne.
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