Community Corner

Budget Cuts Threaten to Ground Blue Angels Before Seafair

If Congress fails to pass a defense budget by March 1, the U.S. Navy may be forced to eliminate the popular traveling air show.

Budget gridlock in Congress could threaten this year's Seafair performance of the Blue Angels and potentially eliminate the entire U.S. Navy air show.

According to U.S. News & World Report, the upcoming sequestration deadline means the U.S. Navy could eliminate the popular air show program if Congress fails to reach consensus on a defense budget by March 1.

KIRO TV reports the Navy has confirmed the move would result in the cancelation of this summer's Seafair performance, scheduled for Aug. 2-4. But Seafair President Beth Knox said she is not in panic mode—yet.

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"As we've seen in recent history, many adjustments are made prior to finalizing the budget, so until this occurs, it would be inappropriate to speculate potential cuts or the degree to which they happen," Knox told KIRO. "The Blue Angels are confirmed to fly at Seafair in 2013 and we remain confident the Seattle region will get to enjoy them this summer as they have for over 40 years.” 

Would you miss the Blue Angels? Tell us in the comments section.

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