Windy Times at the Fringe

It was a couple of windy days at the Fringe on the 20th and 21st of July. Yesterday was especially windy. Our gazebo was being pushed sideways (not up at least) and we were holding on for dear life. We had a tarp over our gazebo in case it rained and the tarp was acting like a sail. Things were not good. I knew we had to remove the tarp but we were afraid to let go. I called my brother, Eric Dawson, to come and help. While waiting for reinforcements, Ben, Mr. Ken's assistant and artist extrodinaire, came and helped us remove the tarp. Eric showed up and helped us take down some peg board. We were doing everything in our power to reduce the wind's effect on us. Meagan, who is our favourite security guard and her partner also helped with their words of kindness and encouragement and also, practically speaking, anchoring a bucket of water to the gazebo to keep it in place. The wind did finally lessen somewhat by evening but at that point we were completely exhausted. There is a gentle breeze today and we were able to set up. All in all it is a more relaxing day. And we will have memories from this year's Fringe. It is all good!

This is Meagan and her partner holding down the fort, literally.

This is Ben who assists Mr. Ken of Mr. Ken's Music. If you have young children, you'll have to check out Mr. Ken's website: http://www.mrkenmusic.com/. There are downloadable pictures for children to colour and things to listen to. Also, Ben is an artist in his own right and he told us he has a surprise in store which will be revealed at the Paraguayan Pavillion August 7th - 13th. The Paraguayan Pavillion is located in the Maples Multiplex Arena at 454 Adsum.

Speaking about Folklorama, the adult ambassadors, Vanessa and Corbin Boughen, for the Spirit of Ukraine pavillion stopped to say hello us. They were at the Fringe in full Ukrainian regalia to promote the upcoming Folklorama Festival. We met Vanessa at the Red River Exhibition where she was working at the Passion Party booth which was right beside our booth.

All in all, it is a good festival where we get to meet a lot of great people.