Source:By Keith Gebers – Citizen Staff Writer
Again this year the Elk Grove Western Festival, taking place the weekend of May 1, will feature a top line carnival.
Johnston Amusements is headquartered in Elk Grove, and is the oldest operating carnival company in California.
In addition to this year’s Elk Grove appearance, Johnston Amusements has just been signed to be the featured carnival at this year’s San Joaquin County Fair. The choice was based on the firm’s outstanding safety record.
Ken Johnston, who is also General Chairman of this year’s Western Festival, owns the firm.
“Some really outstanding rides will be featured at this year’s Western Festival Carnival,” said Johnston, “One of these is the historic Hammer, which is legendary.” Variations are also known by such names as Rock-O-Plane and Loop-O-Plane. The creator of the Hammer was Eyerly Aircraft Company in Oregon, which was has been purchased by Johnston Entertainment 10 years ago.
“We provide parts for over 4,000 rides for all over the world,” Johnston said. “The two main features of any carnival are the Ferris Wheel and Merry Go Round. We feature the most attractive traveling Ferris Wheel and Merry Go Rounds in the nation.”