Memorable Kettleby Fair

September 10, 2013 · 0 Comments

It rained on Kettleby Fair again this year. A legion of volunteers, some of the market place, some display booths, many of the entertainers, most of the food vendors and a select group of hardy souls braved the elements.
We, the committee, knew that the community groups who were counting on the Fair for needed revenue would be even more disappointed after a second year of dismal weather.
But the gates teams got covered in mud pushing cars to firmer ground; the grill guys continued to offer the best hamburgers smothered with fried onions, and the loonie draw tent offered a cheerful alternative to compensate for the loss of shopping opportunities at the market place. The Good Guys Carting Dogs (raising money for the Pet Fund at the Food Bank) stayed until mid-day.
Organ grinder Klaus continued the entire day, filling the western area with the iconic sound of a street organ, and chatting with whoever stopped by. The Morris Men jumped up onto the stage to fill a program gap, and the clowns continued to offer balloon animals after parading down the hill in the rain with the mayor (in an open convertible), Schomberg Fair Ambassador, Morris Men, Town Crier, MC along with York Region Police and unannounced local supporters.
Robert Davies moved to the main stage, where he entertained all of us, old and young alike with his engaging brand of music and humour. Gin Lane, Marie-Lynn Hammond and John Lemme all gave performances as if they were in Carnegie Hall.
Opening ceremonies ran with most of council present, and the presentation of plaques to the winners of the Mayor’s Five Blooms garden tour.
The mutt show was moved to higher ground.
Members of the fire department showed off their spiffy vehicle, complete with siren and horn.
The Town Crier strutted about, announcing schedule changes and inviting participation in full regalia. Our MC kept the stage going, and the sound booth delivered their highly professional mix from the relative safety of a small white tent.
Why do I want you and our community to know all this? Because this was a Fair that showcased the essential goodness of people. Volunteers showed up in spite of the rain, and continued their commitment to the Fair. Nearly all who were to be paid an honorarium or fee either waived their portion or reduced the agreed upon price. They understood that we are a small community fair with no financial backstop other than the Kettleby Village Association that is our parent organization.
So, while we were wet and tired by day’s end, we have the wonderful memory of the generosity of spirit of all who participated.
Thank you – all of you – both in King and beyond, for the most memorable Fair ever staged in Kettleby.
Carol Ann Trabert
On behalf of the 2013 Kettleby Fair Committee of Gary Vogan, Scott Cook, Karen Sharpe, Peter Schoettle, Michael Hogg