There’s always something new to see
Together with the tried and true traditions Richmond fair is famous for, several new projects are on the program this year. Of course, most fair goers are talking about the first demolition derby in 25 years scheduled for Sunday afternoon this year. But there are several interesting exhibits and a workshop or two on the program as well.
Avery Perkins will display and probably start up his antique wooden thrasher mill and perhaps his wooden hay baler as well. These machines are almost older than I am and, still efficiently separating grain from the straw or compressing and baling hay into rectangular shapes, tied with baler twine by the machines knotters, run by a long drive belt drawing its speed and power from an antique tractor's PTO system, (power take-off). It brings back memories for old timers watching and scares the daylights out of young children who suspect these machines are monsters from a scary television program.
In the building at the front of the arena, visitors and especially young mothers will find a Mother and Babe corner, a Kiddies' corner complete with a quiet spot to nurse or feed an infant with comfortable chairs and changing tables. "Our Ministry of Agriculture projects for this year are the aforementioned antique machines and a display and workshop showing folks living in a small space can still have their 'sproutgrowing' tray where all kinds of fresh greens can be available on a daily basis," Maureen Murphy, Secretary explained.
Visitors will find new fencing and walkways as they make their way from the parking area to the center of the fair. Donald, (Wally) Beard, suddenly found himself filling in for president Clifford Lancaster struck down by serious illness the second weekend of August. "Actually, most of the projects were being taken care off," he said thoughtfully, "but the finishing of our major change was waiting.”
Beard was referring to the transfer of the outside ring across the roadway to the parking are to a new spot near the pony barn and pulling track. "This was a major move requiring preparing the ground," he pointed out. We watched as wide plastic bands were being installed along the sturdy fence posts, actually cut down telephone poles no longer being used. The ground had to be opened up. That means removing top soil and sod, lowering the base and using clay or sand, spreading a layer that is compressed firmly before a final layer of fine gravel or screened gravel puts on the finishing touch. "It's not a cheap undertaking, but we felt it was necessary for safety reasons," Beard explained. "By moving the ring closer to the pony barn and pulling track, we have eliminated the danger to pedestrians and vehicles crossing the access to the former ring from the the stables. Now we have a fenced walkway between the pulling track and the ring giving access to the stables or midway or arena without endangering folks crossing paths with teams of heavy or light horses."
Security has been a priority every year as organizers improved gating systems, installed steel gates instead of ropes, replaced fences with new, sturdy wire and improved safety to spectators along the pulling track with increased cement barriers in the bleacher area. "I know families and parents are always worried about the safety of their family and every year we've tried to update and increase safety features. We have hand sanitizers now, specified garbage containers for recycling and waste, new washrooms and improved maintenance in the washroom facilities. Our president, who had to take a leave of absence due to serious illness,has made great strides in promoting the importance of safety for all concerned - the public, the volunteers, the exhibitors and the animals too. These are projects that take time but I think we've come a long way this year,” Beard concluded.
Beauce Carnaval has also upgraded their participation at local fairs. Ride operators are careful each passenger is properly secured, information about sudden movement or standing up on a ride is clearly posted and Beauce Carnaval has invested in benches scattered around the midway, often a welcome stop for tired children and folks not so young.
"I can honestly say this fair, even though it's the last in the series of six in the E. T. is probably the biggest, little fair, a friendly, country fair where agriculture is displayed proudly, friends and families meet for a final good time before the cold weather begins. Oh yes, we have had somewhat chilly weather in the past, but most folks come prepared with sweaters and jackets and, as they say, the beat goes on with lots of music, a chance for a hands-on meeting with a fluffy rabbit or the fuzzy nose of a horse or pony or even a miniature horse. We'll have a bingo this year too beginning at 10 a.m. Sunday, another popular event not seen at this fair in recent years," Beard commented.
"And of course, we all wish Clifford Lancaster a speedy convalescence back to good health. He has been here to see us a couple of times, much to the dismay of his caregivers." Beard said emphatically, with a reassuring smile.