The record, 22 août 2002, Supplément 1

Ayer’s Cliff Fair The indomitable spirit of Willie Antink : By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff One snowy day I was taking pictures of shivering volunteers clamouring around on those old horse-stall roofs, tearing down the dilapidated building to make way for new, dutch-door box stalls for light horses coming to the fair.Willie Antink was there along with Doug Johnston and Turner Hunter, and others I can’t remember, all well past their youth, struggling to pull nails, rip up old corrugated tin and keep their footing on the slushy surface.That was typical of Willie.This dynamo of energy and ideas would persuade, cajole and, sometimes plead for the Ayer’s QifF fair, a cause he had taken to heart.Today’s modem facilities are, in large part, due to the indomitable spirit and determination of this man who had immigrated to Canada from Holland.The Antinks were well known in fair circuits.Previously a rather rundown operation, the home farm flourished.Soon quality purebred Holsteins were making production records, one of the first modem milking parlours in the district was added, stables were modernized and fields of silage com grew tall and straight on the road leading to the Antink farm.The family carried that determination to the county fair where the Holsteins climbed slowly up the line, winning plenty of ribbons and banners along the way.The youngsters turned out for 4H events Willie turned his attention to the fair itself.First it was a new line of horse stalls, then in quick succession, a dining hall, washrooms, a recreation centre and finally, the Expo Centre.Antink was not always appreciated for his unswerving ‘stick-to-it-ness’.He was forthright and abrupt sometimes, but unstoppable and usually successful.Antink was not a large man physically, but he stood tall among his supporters.A fair director for many years, a president and always a believer in the importance of his county’s fair, his passing this year has left a gap that will be hard to fill.We all miss Willie, his way of looking at you over the rim of his glasses, his slow way of talking and quick smile.But we can never forget.A quick look around the Ayer’s Cliff fairgrounds will keep our memories fiesh for a long, long time.iTl»—' RECORD Supplement August 2002 page 2 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Bank machine makes spending easier •• Y ïM tarons»' Roadster classes add excitement to Ayer’s Cliff Fair By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff The 157th edition of the Stanstead County Exhibition, commonly known as the Ayer’s Cliff Fair will open at noon Thursday with midway rides and games opening at 2 p.m.Organizers and volunteers have been burning the midnight oil for months, synchronizing schedules, reserving judges, processing entries, painting, repairing and sprucing up the fair grounds and facilities.“We have brushed on over 20 gallons of paint by hand,” said Angus MacKinnon, the 2002 president.“That doesn’t count any of the paint used to coat the entire length of the grand stand’s back wall.Looks pretty good eh?” And certainly the grounds and buildings seemed ready for the many thousands who come through the gates to this event.“We’ve added a new fence near the racing paddock to increase safety for people and horses on the back stretch and curve,” MacKinnon pointed out.Through the years the paddock area has graduated from a few rickety stalls to comfortable roofed facilities where up to 80 standard bred horses can be housed and cared for on race day.There’s a bank machine on the grounds this year, making it possible to Good Luck to the Fair! 9 College St., LENNOXVILLE DEPANNEUR BEER - WIDE - DELIVERY - PROPANE - ICE BIÈRE - VIN - LIVRAISON - PROPANE - GLACE Sun.- Wed.: 8:00 - 10:00 Thur .- Sat.: 8:00 - 11:00 Dim.- Merc.: 8h00 - 22h00 Jeudi - Sam.: 8h00 - 23h00 1170, ch.Sherbrooke 842-4447 make a withdrawal when the kids want ‘one more ride’ or ‘one more game’, the president explained.MacKinnon said the poultry house will be full thanks to a new program sponsored by the local Young Farmers.He was also proud of the solution the fair board has found to ease parking problems both on the grounds and outside.“We have a new walk-in gate near the school yard on Rosedale street.People can park their cars in the yard and will find a gate just a few steps away.Beats walking around the outside to the front gate." There’s also parking behind the grounds with a walk-in gate there too as well as an exit only barrier for leaving the grounds.” At one time, traffic passed along the light horse stabling area, turning this bottleneck into a ‘stop and go’ affair that often caused patience to disappear.The secret is arriving early.Entertainment begins in the morning and continues until the wee hours.Judging gets underway in earnest Friday morning at 8.Halter classes for heavy horses get the ball rolling.The light horses also make their appearance Friday with hitch classes for both heavies and lights beginning at 4 in the ring beside the stage.Roadster classes Special guests this year, appearing Friday evening and Saturday in front of the grandstand are the roadster classes.This is one of the most exciting hitches as drivers are urged to go faster.These steeds, usually standard bred, race around the oval at breakneck speed, sliding into corners with drivers hanging out the side of the buggy to try to keep from being upended in the mad rush.Organizers brought a couple of classes out last year and now entries have more than dou- 562-9444 RECORD FILE PHOTO It’s a tradition unparalleled anywhere else in Quebec, and Ayer’s Cliff Fair President Angus MacKinnon knows it as he has been burning the midnight oil in preparation of its 157th edition.Tnuzl/aSm- Wa &irf ftAIDWAlt Quincaillerie North Hatley (1987) Inc.• Benjamin Moore Paint • Electrical & plumbing Supplies 8 General Hardware ° RONALD SMITH 3070 Capelton Rd.(819) 842-2394 / (819) 842-2774 North Hatley FAX: (819) 842-4558 Best wishes to the Ayer's Ctijff Fair! BAIRD Garage Robert Baird, prop.• General Repairs • Welding • Body Work • Painting • Windshield Installation 876-2913 I 802 Sheldon Rd., Fitch Bay, Magog bled.“We are looking forward to this event.Just praying for warm dry weather to keep the track in good shape,” MacKinnon added.Roadster classes are slated for 6:20 p.m.Friday, and again after the races on Saturday.The 4H Showmanship and conformation classes also actually begin Thursday with a junior division for exhibitors 15 yrs or less and seniors 16 yrs and over.Of special interest is class 11 for 4H members beginning at 2 p.m.Friday.Juniors and seniors must show their prowess in equitation, (riding style may be English or western,) and prove their steeds are a pleasure to ride.Competitors are rewarded with a banquet where trophies, special awards and the all important placing of teams and individuals is announced.See Activities, Page 3 Best Wishes to the Ayers Cliff Fair! LARRY WHEELER Auctions of all kinds Licensed Auctioneer • For The Best In Auction Service | Graniteville, Que.(819) 876-53491 AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 • page 3 Fair swings into high gear with Sunday’s parade Activities: Cont’d from Page 2 Judging switches into high gear Saturday as both dairy and beef breeds make their appearance in the Expo Centre.But first, right after breakfast, the goats get their moment of glory Friday morning in the Expo Centre followed by the sheep at noon.Swine also strut their stuff out near their stable at noon.All weekend, special activities are scheduled in the children’s area, located near the dining hall.Arts and crafts and face painting too all happens in here where there’s a special nook for nursing mothers.Another new feature will be a special presentation by the winners of the talent contest Découverte de la Chanson.Francesca Comeau and Anick Bérubé will give a short recital in the Recreation Centre Sunday afternoon after the parade.And speaking of a parade, leading the dignitaries in this grand event will be the Eastern Townships Pipe Band with David Moore heading up the colourful group.Few can resist the skirl of bagpipes in an open air concert in front of the grandstand before they perform their official duties at the head of the parade, so an early arrival at the fair on Sunday is recommended.The Gastoni group brings plenty of entertainment to centre stage.Ti-Guy-Doux will clown around, Miss Holla Hups will astonish with her prowess at handling and ma-noeuvering dozens of hula hoops at the same time and topping the circus acts is the Alex Arestov family recent arrivals from the Moscow circus.These acts begin on Friday at 11 a.m.and again at 12:30.See Entertainment, Page 4 RECORD FILE PHOTOS **»*r@! Leading the dignitaries in Sunday’s parade will be the Eastern Townships Pipe Band, with David Moore (top) leading the colourful group.Also, special activities are scheduled throughout the weekend in the children’s hall (bottom).3RT®»* Success to the organizers! Schoolcraft Service Station inc.• FULL SERVICE • MOTOR OIL • GAS - DIESEL • PROPANE • BEER & WINE DepanExpress loto-québec ^ FRANCINE ROBERT Pharmacist to- tU Aqvi’d am 843-1773 i itWlOP-w- 14185 Burrough’s Falls Junction ot Routes 141 & 143 THE 45 St.Patrice St.East, Magog | (across from La Providence Hospital) MedicAlert protects skater Ben Ferreira.dD MedicAlert ALWAYS ON CALL www.medicalert.ca For more information 1-SDD-S6S-15D7 ,,Hudons Vigneux?Quincaillerie Hardware 09022 471 Main Street West MAGOG, Quebec J1X 2B2 tél.:(819)843-3530 P.0.Box 1300 Sherbrooke J1H 5L6 or 1195 Galt E„ Sherbrooke JIG 1Y7 Fax: 819-569-3945 e-mail: newsroomSshertrookerecord.cora Website: www.sherbrookerecord.com Randy Kinnear Publisher .(819) 569-9511 Sharon McCully Editor .(819) 569-6345 Jamie Zachary Corresp.Editor .(819) 569-6345 Richard Lessard Prod.Mgr.(819) 569-9931 Serge Gagnon Chief Pressman .(819) 569-9931 Francine Thibault Prod.Superv.(819) 569-4856 DEPARTMENTS Accounting .•.(819)569-9511 Advertising.(819)569-9525 Circulation.(819)569-9528 Newsroom .(819)5696345 Knowlton office 88 Lakeside.Knowlton, Quebec.JOE 1VO Tel: (450) 242-1188 Fax: (450) 243-5155 MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS GST PST TOTAL Canada: 1 year 114.40 8.01 9.18 S131.59 6 MONTHS 59.00 4.13 4.73 S67.86 3 MONTHS 30.00 2.10 2.41 S34.51 Out of Quebec residents do not include PST.Rates for other services available on request.The Record is published daily Monday to Friday.Back copies of The Record are available.The Record was founded on February 7.1897.and acquired the Sherbrooke Examiner (est.1879) in 1905 and the Sherbrooke Gazette (est.1837) in 1908.The Record is published by Hollinger Canadian Newspapers L.P.Canadian Publications Mail Service Product Agreement No.0479675.Member ABC.CARD, CNA, QCNA page 4 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Arts and crafts exhibits get bigger every year Entertainment: Cont’d from Page 3 If this all sounds like a busy time, we’ve only begun a list of things taking place at the fair.There’s judging in the Arts and Crafts building.The children’s section grows larger every year with artwork, crafts, photography and cooking on display.Another feature of the fair is a display of Christmas crafts.There are also beautiful quilts, hand stitched, crocheting of the finest lace, sewing and embroidery work here, right beside the office.Stanstead County crafters can be excused for bragging about their department where excellence is the norm and judges are hard put to decide what article should get the red ribbon in any given class.Gardeners delight Just across the walk we find the Horticulture Society building where gardeners bring floral displays, uniform vegetables, house plants to astound the viewer.There are maple and honey products and of course, field crops where we find giant pumpkins and unbelievably tall stalks of corn and sunflowers.This is where Doug Johnston can be found most fair days.The Johnstons have been growing, exhibiting and helping to organize this special corner of the fair for well over 50 years.We visited the farmstead once and were introduced to 12-foot high sunflowers, giant dahlias and a variety of jjlgii&i&j : : ¦ ¦>< IpsaYi RECORD RLE PHOTC The Horticulture Society building (top) on the Ayer’s Cliff Fairgrounds is home to an assortment of floral displays, uniform végéta bles and house plants, to name a few.Also, in the Arts and Crafts building a display of Christmas crafts will be featured (bottom).Success to tFe Ayer's Cti^ Fair! J.M.CHAGIMOIXI INC Coaticook, QC J1A 1P3 Res.: (819) 849-4909 Bus.: (819) 849-2663 Fax: (819) 849-3058 Serving fellow Townshippers for all their insurance needs since 1901 Campbell, Bellam & Associés Inc.467 Dufferin Street, Stanstead, QC 876-7114» 1-800-567-6014 Jlaae a cyieat time, at the }57tk Aif&il Glifl fyctiA, et*tcC tvtÿeutciÿert&f / Bijouterie Yvette enr.Jeweller / More than 30 years’ experience 67 Main St.West Coaticook, Quebec J1A 1P3 Tel.: (819) 849-2850 © 1998 CASE CORPORATION Visit Case s Web Site at h1tp.//www casecorp com Case IH and C.iiO Ocu i .re »eq :¦'< :< i iMdcmjfki ,.ti CASE III flowers and vegetables in their gardens that proved beyond a doubt the preparation for their county fair begins long before the fair opens.Elmshade Farm is well-known for quality Ayrshire dairy cattle, but poultry and the gardens have also played key roles at the fair.Douglas Johnston has been showing about 60 years.Perhaps this determined pair have slowed down a bit, but the future is bright.Son Sandy has taken over most farm duties; the Elmshade Ayr-shires were at Cookshire Fair and will be at the ‘Cliff.The elder Johnstons will spend their time in the Horticulture building or visiting at the Ayrshire stable door.There’s music for dancing every evening in the recreation Centre from Thursday on including Sunday afternoon.Admission is $8, a weekend pass including parking is $18.Children under three years of age are admitted free.Tel.: (819) 838-4839 * ROGER Success LAGUEUX BACKHOE BULLDOZER WORK SAND - GRAVEL 2613 Way’s Mills Rd, Ayer's Cliff, Quebec JOB 1C0 Li.n.M.lechnologies Inc.Worldwide Waterproofing for Buildings, Structures, Silos Sealers and Coatings for Concrete, Concrete Blocks, Brick, Stucco, etc.300 Bacon Road, Ayer’s Cliff, Que.(819) 843-222: s4*fe>r4 0?oUn - *p9fi & 0p%ieoteU AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 • page 5 ¦ its own reward ’>***' ¦*** y -™ > • ' .' (W' ! .A sfta ; RECORD FILE PHOTO Whether hard at work or taking a breather, the Ayer’s Qiff Fair wouldn't have been possible all these years without the dedication of its volunteers.‘Those breakers were popping off constantly but now we’ve got them all wired up right’ By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff The Stanstead Agriculture Society ranks welcomed three new members this year.Bringing new blood and young ideas to their directors chairs are Tom Smith, Elliot MacLeod and Brian Connor.Being on the ‘board’, as they have found out, can be a daunting task with each director assigned to various committees that can range from helping the gate and ticket committee to delving into the mysteries of wiring and plumbing on the grounds.We caught up with Tom Smith at the Cookshire Fair, where he and wife Brenda were stealing a few moments rest after the traditional cattle parade.The heat was blistering and a mischievous breeze stirred up swirls of dust.Although they were showing signs of weariness, that old enthusiasm for county fairs was immediately apparent as we began talking about Smith’s new position on the Ayer’s Cliff board.Tom Smith has been turning up at local fairs since childhood.He’s been one of Sandy Johnston’s main- stays, grooming, washing, clipping and helping to show the Johnston’s Ayrshires.“I grew up in East Hatley,” Smith recalls.“Although we weren’t farmers, the village was small and farms came right to the edge of town.” Smith loved the animals and being out on the land then and he hasn’t changed.His work through the years has taken him to towns and cities but he always found time to help the Johnstons and show up at the fairgrounds to help prepare.Now you know, you can’t be that faithful and willing and not get noticed by the directors.“Eventually they’re going to ask you to join them on the board.And that’s the way it happened.” “Electricals” have been Smith’s main occupation in life.“So, of course, they put me onto that area of concern.” SEE VOLUNTEERS, PAGE 6 Enjoy tfic Ayers Cliff Fair! Check for our upcoming outlet sale WELLS LAMONT .vrkllü 4* ** INDUSTRY GROUP A MEMBER Of THE MAMMON GROUP OF COMPANIES Gloves • Cotton • Terry Cloth • PVC • Leather Palm • Kevlar Congratulations to the Ayer’s Cliff Fair on their 156th edition! DERUSHA SUPPLY / ‘VPJ P.O.Box 29, 33 Conuto St.Beebe, Que.JOB HO DERUSHA SUPPLY INC.SUPPLIERS TO THE STONE INDUSTRY CORST TO CONST FOURNISSEURS POUR L'INDUSTRIE DE PIERRE D UN OCÉAN A L'RUTRE GRRRV DCRUSHR T€RRV DCRUSHR Tel, (819) 876-2722 fox: (819) 876-5973 û Wistea for n 11 n1 CIMENT Ü CONCRETE READY NIX 340 Merrill St., Coaticook x re., 849-2778 ^ Tke Supermarket in tke region IGA Coaticook 265 Child St., Coaticook (Quebec) J1A 2B5 Tel, (819) 849-6226 Fax: (819) 849-2579 Our priority is to always serve yon 6etter.Serge âf Johanne Arsenault, oivners C U IS I N E CRBI Fine cabinetry for today’s lifestyle 2160 Way’s Mills Road Ayer’s Cliff Tel, (819) 838-5889 www.cabico.com 10 Bachelder, Stanstead (819) 876-7531 PAGE 6 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Volunteers learn ropes quickly Volunteers: Cont’d from Page 6 Fairs require a great deal of electricity.That means wiring, entry boxes, upgrading existing power output and always checking for safety and security.Power demands have increased everywhere on the grounds.Endless list Ventilation fans and milk coolers in the stables, larger water pumps, refrigerators and freezers in food booths that must meet government health regulations, more lighting on the grounds, PA systems and electrically powered carts whose batteries must be recharged the list is endless.At the Women’s Institute Tea Room electricity has replaced wood or oil burning stoves where water was heated for the famous tea.With coffee machines and electric kettles doing an efficient supply job, the ladies were hard put to keep circuit breakers in the On position.“Those breakers were popping off constantly,” said Tom, “But now we’ve got them all wired up right.So, for now.I’m the power man.We helped build the new fence at the paddock and there were plenty of other jobs to be tended to.“This first year is a cram course on getting to an understanding of the heart of a fair.When you just come in to help out, you have no idea there’s so much going on before and after each exhibition at the administration level.It sure is a learning process, and you have to learn real quick.” When we spoke at Cookshire, Smith was taking a breather from packing up to take the animals home for a couple of days.Most show paraphernalia will stay packed as the Johnstons and the David Price, M.P.tAe /4cf&i 4.(£(*44 "pain-! DAVID PRICE, M.P.Compton-Stanstead 4777 Bourque Blvd.Rock Forest, QC J1N2G6 (819) 573-5200 office (819) 573-5190 fax email: priced1@parl.gc.ca Cookshire (819)875-1157 Coaticook (819) 849-3113 www.davidprice.parl.gc.ca : : : ¦ ¦'f'v'?' : ; : :¦ ¦ ;¦: ¦ ¦;! ¦ V ¦ '$@8 ¦ , ¦." ¦¦ f; : : RECORD FILE PHOTO A fair participant enjoys a refreshing swig during a challenging but fun Ayer’s Cliff fair weekend.Smiths, along with cattle, poultry, flowers and vegetables, head to their own county fair where responsibilities await this new director and his peers on the board.“But I don’t mind.Fairs are in my blood.I probably was here with my Mom before I even knew it myself.It’s lots of work but the fun more than makes up for all time we spend getting ready.We come as a family, meet up Family owned and operated since 1954 • Heating Oil • Gas • Diesel • Flexible budget Plan -8SS-WW CROOK (81 9) 838-4942 1 1 GO Main St.Ayer’s Cliff with more family and friends, get a look at the latest developments in whatever field of competition you participate in and, as an added bonus, have three nights of country music and dancing as a reward.Now that’s what I call a weekend worth working for.” Complete Tack Shop I Western Boots Clothing Accessories Gifts/Jewelery^ 49, rue Sherbrooke Magog, Quebec 819 843-3838 OPEN 7 DAYS * * J i j J / J « 4 .Lxtmoureux Sunfire Grand Am Come and see our wide-selection of used cars A __ ________ / financing on most vehicles.financing ’ on l most i X^vehicle^X La m oiireux Pontiac Biiick 396 Main St.West, Coaticook (819) 849-2776 AYER'S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 • page 7 ‘The county fair is where it all began’ Horse racing, betting part of the tradition Peter McHarg is no newcomer to the racing game.He has organized the standard breed race day at the Ayer's Cliff Fair for several years.we all take turns grading and smoothing, watching the comers keep their grade.It’s quite a trick but I think we’ve got the best conditions ever for this year’s event.” Purses are standard for summer fair circuit races.We have $1,200 for the younger horses and it goes down to $600 for the older steeds,” he explained.“This is where the amateur and hobbyist can bring out his pet and drive if he wants.It’s also an event that helps new drivers working their way up the different licence levels for jockeys.“The racing commission supplies the finances for the purses and there’ll be a cooler (blanket sponsored by local people, business and the fail board, for every winner.We have 11 races sched uled with most races starting seven horses.” The betting booths are located in the Beer Pavil ion.Race day patrons and fair visitors are urged tc get an early start to the fair on Saturday Races get underway at 1 p.m.By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff He’s still the same gruff guy.still organizing the standard bred race day at the fair.Peter McHarg doesn’t change.“We have to bring back this racing tradition at county fairs,” he emphasizes.“The county fair is where it all began before race tracks and racing parlours.It was part and parcel of a fair but it was much more.” “Back in those first years local folk had a chance to prove all their bragging about their special horse was really true.They lined up, sometimes in a flat field, before tracks were developed to the point they are today, and they were OFF.” McHarg points out how the Morgan horse and the Canadian breed finally got recognized.“They proved they had a horse that could work along side the best and with a bit of training, keep up to the fastest too.” McHarg is no newcomer to the racing game.“I’ve got four horses in training now.We may run one on Saturday, but they are mainly in the first stages of racing, still young.” The CCRQ, (in English, the Quebec Regional Racing Association) looks after taking entries, drawing lots for positions and putting out the program.And anyone who has seen a racing program knows it’s not just a list of participating horses.The program is difficult to understand to the uninitiated.Included with the horse’s name, owner and driver are genealogy, (dam and sire), times raced this year, placings for each race, the time to the quarter, half and final wire and the amount of money won.Bring an expert All this information is supposed to help the process of selection when placing bets.But it’s pretty mind-boggling until one gets used to it.“There’ll be someone on hand to help explain to first-timers and of course, coming out to the races with an old racing and betting friend helps quite a bit too,” McHarg says.McHarg is proud of the track.“We didn’t have to do much to it this year,” he said, but added quickly, “but there’s been lots of work done in the past.We keep horses here year-round, which means we’re using this half-mile every day.So, RECORD FOE PHOTO Great Clearance Sale page 8 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Angus MacKinnon takes first turn at helm * * < ‘0% * ***'*£ £6® * ?x • * * % ’ #* âfef.?‘ «V»* ' c- •• «**.***;‘ »*’ ***'»"., »'«•» - Ai- J ü Attachment to the land runs as strong as ever By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff Heat waves rippled over tin roofs and pavement as we arrived to talk to this year’s Ayer’s Cliff Fair president Angus MacKinnon.Not surprisingly, the president was up on one of those tin roofs, along with Tim Roarke, putting the final touches on a connection between the race barns and sheep and goats facility.The young president is old in experience and know-how.The MacKinnon family are old-timers at this fair where father, mother, sons and daughters have turned out to help and exhibit long before this reporter came on the scene.It’s only natural that Angus, son of Douglas, would follow his father’s footsteps both as a modern agriculture producer but in organizations such as the Agricultural Society and the Quebec Farmers Association.We have followed the family which also includes two daughters, up through the ranks of Young Farmers See MacKinnons, page 9 The MacKinnons have encouraged friendly competiton between young exhibitors.Now Angus MacKinnon, running the fair for the first time, helps his daughters prepare their calves for the Young Farmers competition.: ; ïf : > : : - mm «r,4 x Bur.: (819) 876-2303 X Res.(819) 876-7360 CONSTRUCTION* GOUDREAU INC.• Machineries Lourdes • Heavy Machinery • Gravier, Terre & Sable • Gravel, Earth & Sand • Fosses Septiques ECOFLO • Septic Tanks • Déneigement • Snow Removal MARTIAL FAUTEUX Propirétaire/Owner \ Office: 32 Maple Stanstead, QC JOB 3E0 a RECORD FILE PHOTO Ayer’s Cliff Fair President Angus MacKinnon, seen here with his daughter Elizabeth, has been burning the midnight oil in preparation of the 157th edition of the Stanstead County Exhibition.Success to tfie Acer's Cliff Fair.' SAGE & FILS INC.Encan d’animaux de Danville Inc.21 Desrosiers, Coaticook J1A2S8 Tel.: (819) 849-3792 Fax: (819) 849-3838 Yvon: 849-2532 Réal: 849-9003 08277 SINCE 1948 Mow certified "5 star dealer" (Mmw&Cotnecu, ft CHRYSLER Dodge Jeep See us online: www.beliveaucomeau.net 203 RAILROAD (819) 876-2785 STANSTEAD AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 • page 9 MacKinnons’ involvement takes next step RECORD FILE PHOTC Angus’ daughter Elizabeth is one of the next generation of MacKinnons preparing to show livestock at the Ayer's QiffFair.¦*: w ,s ; MacKinnons: Cont’d from Page 8 achievement days, show days at local fairs and even chronfcled Angus’s travels to Australia at the same time as brother Peter ventured into the jungles of Africa.Today, the brothers farm the same land as former fair board president and long-time director Doug.They have families now and exhibit their renowned show herd of Holsteins as their father did with Mom providing support and sustenance for over a quarter century.Which one would win next?We remember the brothers and sisters, dressed up in show-whites, barely able to reach a calf’s head in Junior classes.There was always friendly competition among them as one year saw red ribbons go to one of the youngsters, another year a different brother or sister claimed the honours.We attended Young Farmers’ gatherings at the Barnston West farm, kept track of the championship ribbons and interviewed many visitors from across the land and sometimes across the oceans during their stay at the MacKinnon farmstead.But these days conversations with Angus inevitably end up on the subject of his daughters, their trials and tribulations getting calves ready for the Young Farmers competition.Here, family pride and attachment to the land runs as strong as ever.“The girls are getting ready.It’s like a walk in the past to watch them work together, trying to teach a calf to lead.Sometimes one has to push and the other pull.When we were doing the same thing, we didn’t know how comical it must have looked to our parents.Now it’s our turn.“We have seen the fair go from barely 10,000 visitors to close to 30,000.Just about every building has be either replaced or renovated.New ones have been added such as the din- ing hall, Kiddies Korner and Expo Centre.Light horse stables have been totally rebuilt and cattle and sheep and goats facilities are always being upgraded.” A few years ago when father Doug was doing one of his terms as president, the poultry house and commercial booths were built and, aside from a decrease in poultry, this area has proved to be one of the most popular spots for visitors to browse and shop.This year, the poultry show will be back to its former glory.“Our Young Farmers club decided to purchase day-old chicks for the members who were too young to show a calf.” The club allotted the youngest members 10 chicks apiece on the condition they bring their about-to-lay pullets to the fair.“Presto, we’re back to a full house once again, and the real bonus is these youngsters will get a taste of participating in their county fair.” MacKinnon is a great believer in getting the young people interested early, just as his family did.“Our future farmers and exhibitors begin right here, in these peewee classes,” he adds, laughing.“See what happened to me?” PATRICK LIZOTTE (819) 566-1111 Cell: (819) 572-5046 TIIE NEW GENERATION Kuboh 1381 King St.East, Sherbrooke ÉQUiPcmcnTs CHARLES LAVIGNE & FILS INC.www.equipementscharleslavigne.com “Call me to find out more about the New Generation KuBota Compact Farm Tractors.Come see us at tfie Kubota booth” 07369 page 10 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Ayer's Cliff Fair 2002 includes all attractions, shows, grandstand and free parking on the grounds Save by purchasing a PASS for the four days at only $18.00 • Complete exhibition of FARM IMPLEMENTS and numerous business exhibits • Ladies Department in the Main Building • Harness races - Pari mutuel Betting • Fun and games for the kids in the Kiddies’ Corner attached to the dining hall • Music and dancing in the recreation center every evening and Sunday afternoon • Please be on the grounds before 11:30 a.m.Saturday and Sunday for parking • NEW WALK-IN GATE in back of the school on Rosedale Street Francesca Comeau and Anick Barubé, winners of the talent contest “Découverte de la Chanson ", will perform in the Recreation Center Sunday after the Parade.Information: Secretary: Janie Webster (819) 876-7317 • Fairgrounds (819) 838-5388 Sponsored by: Stanstead County Agricultural Society & Stanstead County Horticultural Society Saturday, August 24 8:30 p.m.Admission Fee: $Q00 THURSDAY.AUGUST 22 12:00 p.m.Light horse classes 2:00 p.m.MIDWAY OPENS 7:30 p.m.Lumberjack competition 9:30 p.m.Dance in the Recreation Center AUGUST 23 Light horse classes Heavy horse classes Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Shepherd and Sheperdess Contest Games and races for boys and girls Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Tug-of-war for boys and girls Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Single light horse or pony hitched to a wagon Leadline for Draft Horse (8 yrs & under) Draft Horse equitation - English or Western saddle Ladies driving single light horse or pony Men’s Cart Class Ladies’ Cart Class Pair of ponies heavy hitched to a 4 wheel wagon Roadster Class Best light draft horse team hitched to a wagon Team of light horses hitched to a wagon Team of light horses or ponies driven by a Lady OFFICIAL OPENING BOBBY HACHEY Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Dance in the Recreation Center |__________________ Rides on the Midway by Beauce Carnaval ineluded in the gate price GRANDSTAND free at all times Miss Holla Hoops attractions \( ja>toni A FRIDAY.8:00 a.m.8:00 a.m.11:00 a.m.12:30 p.m.1:00 p.m.1:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.3:30 p.m.4:00 p.m.4:30 p.m.5:00 p.m.5:15 p.m.5:30 p.m.5:45 p.m.6:00 p.m.6:00 p.m.6:00 p.m.6:30 p.m.6:45 p.m.7:00 p.m.7:30 p.m.8:30 p.m.9:30 p.m.10:00 p.m. AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 • page 11 Che 157th edition SATURDAY.AUGUST 24 8:00 a.m.Light horse classes 8:30 a.m.Tandem Hitch - Light horse or ponies 9:00 a.m.Single light hitched to a wagon 12:00 p.m.Special acts by Gastoni Attractions 1:00 p.m.Harness races - Pari Mutuel Betting Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Following the races Unicom hitch Roadster Class Trioka - Light horses or ponies 4 horse hitch 7:00 p.m.Special acts by Gastoni Attractions 8:30 p.m.JULIAN AUSTIN 10:00 p.m.Dance in the Recreation Center SUNDAY.AUGUST 25 1:00 p.m.BAGPIPES BAND 1:30 p.m.Horse, cattle and machinery parade After the parade Music in the Recreation Center Trioka 4-Horse Hitch for light horses or ponies Roadster Class Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Unicom Hitch - light horses or ponies Special acts by Gastoni Attractions Roadster Class 4-Horse Hitch Special - 6 Horse Hitch 7:30 p.m.LA BOTTINE SOURIANTE ¦ ':x-' j ** >'< w-y , Don t miss FREE PARKING ON THE FAIRGROUNDS AVAILABLE.ENTRANCES ON MAIN STREET AND WESTMOUNT STREET.Handicraft demonstration Saturday & Sunday in the Main Building BIG EXCITING RIDES.GATES OPEN AT 1 P.M.ON THURSDAY THURSDAY JUDGING PROGRAM 0:00 a.m.8:00 to 9:30 p.FRIDAY: 8:00 a.m.9:30 a.m.10:00 a.m.10:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.2:00 p.m.4:00 p.m.6:30 p.m.SATURDAY: 8:00 a.m.8:30 a.m.12:00 p.m.Ladies’ department, fancy work, art m.Judging competitions - 4-H Heavy and light horses Goats Cooking, maple and honey products, field crops, vegetables, fruits & flowers, in Horticultural Building, poultry, rabbits Sheep Swine Pee-Wee Conformation & Showmanship followed by 4-H Conformation & Showmanship of dairy and beef calves Calf Classes - Showmanship “4-H’ers” under 12 years Banquet Light Horses Beef cattle, heavy horses Ayrshire, Holstein and Jersey cattle ;-i.- ¦ .'¦ - «*>**¦>>••* : ¦ 'tiïmj' ¦ ; ; ;;¦;; -vsr/t, r-'y .•¦ A ^ ¦ : ;" SERVICE DE PNEUS ROBERT PARÉ me REVOLUTIONARY NEW PRODUCT page 12 • AYER’S CLIFF FAIR • THE RECORD Thursday, August 22, 2002 Breeds that can line up with the world’s best RECORD FILE PHOTO The Ayer’s Cliff Fair, steeped in tradition, is home to many past, present and future champions in categories ranging from Belgians to Clydesdales.Memory lane is on a hill outside town By Claudia Villemaire Special to The Record Ayer’s Cliff It seems no matter who you talk to about county fairs, there’s always a story to tell, an adventure to recount, mainly pleasant memories of fairs gone by, the build-up of excitement and the extra work involved» getting ready for the biggest social and educational event on country folk’s calendar of summer activities.Often fair dates were marked in red on August month and a list of things to do was nearby.I have visited kitchens, sat on bales of hay in stables and wound around country highways for 25 years and the stories are the same in many respects.A few years ago, Leslie Webster, fair board director at the time, told me of his childhood days when his father showed a team of horses with their colts at foot.He remembered that sometimes the stallion was tied to the back of the farm wagon and it was quite a hair-raising trek down Brown’s Hill, the steepest road into Ayer’s Cliff village.Old timers recall clamouring out of bed before daylight, putting on Sunday clothes and hurriedly eating breakfast.Then all the sewing, cooking, freshly churned butter, field crops, garden vegetables, flowers and plants were carefully secured near the front of the wagon and behind them sheep and a pig or two would be loaded, bedded in straw and tied securely.They may have driven a few choice head of cattle in front of the wagon and may have tied a precious animal alongside to walk the long miles to the fair.Webster remembered other folks from neighbouring farms joining the cavalcade, and as they neared the fairgrounds in the centre of town, they joined crowds of other travellers all heading the same way in the early morning mist.What’s the hurry?Today’s fair goer, exhibitor or visitor seems always in a hurry.Those long ago treks through quiet fields and woods, beside gurgling streams gave the traveller time to contemplate the country he was passing through.He or she probably was thinking back to other times, other fairs and how those folks managed to get their animals and other exhibits out to the fair and back.See Memories, Page 13 Thave visited kitchens, sat on bales of hay in stables and wound around country highways for 25 years’ CLAUDIA VILLEMAIRE 1280 GALT E., SHERBROOKE (819) 820-9855 I Replaces Calcium as ballast in Tractor & Industrial Tires • Non-corrosive • Good to -50° Celsius • Bio-degradable We sell and service tires for everything on wheels! 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