We are right in the middle of one of the most vibrant seasons for rural communities across the province – Fair Season. I look forward to this time of year because it gives me a chance to see many of you, and to talk to you about your concerns.

For those of us who have grown up in small communities like myself the fall fair is a yearly ritual that we look forward to, and more often than not participate in. Whether you have baked a pie, raised a calf or directed people parking their cars, you are participating in a tradition that traces its roots back to ancient times.

I have worked for many years volunteering my time with the Kinmount Fair, so I know first hand how important the work of our local volunteers is. We all owe a vote of thanks to the people who have worked so hard to make these fairs happen. Those of you who volunteer play an essential role in preserving an important tradition.

Our local fall fairs give visitors a glimpse of what life is like outside of Ontario’s larger cities. They give children a chance to learn where the food they buy at the grocery store comes from. Most important of all, it gives those of us who live here a chance to get together with one another after a very busy spring and summer season.

The past several years have been difficult for farmers, and for everyone in communities that depend on the agricultural sector. It is getting harder and harder to convince urban Ontarians of the importance of maintaining a strong agrifood industry. Our farmers provide us with good, safe food, and it is time that the rest of the province realized this.
An Ontario without farmers and farming communities would be a poorer place.

This fall, think about people you know from nearby towns and cities. Invite them to come by for visit and to sample country living for a day. Invite them to your local fair. I hope to see you there.

Kinmount Fair
Friday September 2 to Sunday September 4

Oakwood Fair
Friday September 9 to Sunday September 11

Sunderland Fair
Monday September 13 to Wednesday September 14

Beaverton Fair
Friday September 16 to Sunday September 18

Lindsay Central Exhibition
Wednesday September 21 to Sunday September 25

Bobcaygeon Fair
Thursday September 29 to Saturday October 1