Rain can't spoil Fall Fair fun

Wendy Grandman and her dog Hogan from Team Canine performed a freestlye disc dog routine at the Georgetown Fall Fair Sunday afternoon.

Isabella Montana,7, enjoys a midway ride at the Georgetown Fall Fair Sunday afternoon.

The IFP Years of tradition held strong this past weekend at the 160th Georgetown Fall Fair. Although the weekend weather started off rainy and windy, the clouds cleared Saturday afternoon and by Sunday the sun was shining bright. "Considering the rain, attendance was good," said Colin Dyble, a member of the Georgetown Agricultural Society (GAS) which puts on the fair. "There was a good crowd once the rain stopped." Area residents were drawn to the event for all the old favorites that bring them back year after year. "We come for the rides and the atmosphere," said Kathy Armstrong, visiting the fair with her family. "It's just good old-fashioned fun." Winner of the 2006 Georgetown Fair Ambassador competition, Emily Dobson, sees the fair as being valuable to the community. "It brings everyone together. It's something that's social and fun for everyone," said Dobson. "Here you can learn more about agriculture and it's very entertaining." One of the most popular features of the fair is the midway and organizers were expecting it to be of good quality this year. With 12 rides and many games, by Funland Outdoor Amusements, visitors were not disappointed. "It has a lot of fun rides. They go so fast," said Mitchell MacLeod, 9. The Education Tent drew crowds wanting the chance to get up close with the animals and learn more about farming. "I like getting to see the animals so close," said Jessica Herber, 12. "I usually don't get to see them because I live in town. Fourteen classes passed through the tent on Friday for Education Day. Groups spent 15 minutes at each station to learn more about the various aspects of animals, farming and the environment. "It's a way for the community to connect with each said Tunde Otto-Harris, member of the Willow Park Ecology Centre. "The tent exposes aspects that are very important. It's very hands-on so the kids enjoy it." The Georgetown Agricultural Society sees the Education Tent to be essential, especially to those who don't have an agricultural background. "With urbanization being seen more and more, kids aren't exposed to an agricultural experience," said Dave Shrubsole, second vice-president of the Georgetown Agricultural Society. "There are many kids who don't understand where food comes from and the process to get it. It's important to understand it so you can appreciate it." Shrubsole said the Georgetown Agricultural Society also aims to dispel myths about animals in farming. Dobson also recognizes the significance of educating about agriculture in our community. "As ambassador, I hope to teach kids more about agriculture and tell them the importance of the fall fair to our town," said Dobson. The tradition continued at the homecraft exhibits as area residents were encouraged to walk through and see the fruits-- and veggies-- of their neighbours' efforts. Exhibits range from produce and baking to crafts and photos. town." "As people pass through the exhibit they love to see the crafts and baking. It really brings the agriculture to the city," said Glenda Benton, a member of the GAS. The demolition derby, one of the fair's biggest highlights, had a great turnout Saturday night, according to organizers. "The crowds started coming once the rain stopped, and the bleachers were full for the derby," said Shrubsole. "The derby usually is one of the biggest attractions." The Society is looking for new members. If interested, call John Nurse at 905-702-4110 or 905-873-6157.