Dave Finley, The Miracles
I am an avid photographer. While a photograph can capture what things looked like, that is only one of the five senses. The CNE offers delights for all of your senses. I really noticed that today.
I had a little bit of a later start today, and hit the grounds just after 2. I didn’t even get 20 metres past the front gate before I received my first free sample. Today it was Sabra Hummus. It made a perfect pick-me-up later in the day. Just the treat for my taste buds today.
Right next to the Sabra folks I watched the balloon artist create swords and flowers to hand out to the kids. I can’t believe how fast he makes them.
From here I wandered into the Arts, Crafts & Hobbies building. It didn’t take me long to find the Krazy Kitty booth. I buy something there every year. A Krazy Kitty cat mat I bought a few years ago is my cat’s favourite place to sleep.
I love to see artists at work. Today I saw a potter, painter and listened to a pianist all within one building. I get a kick out of watching the portrait artists and comparing their work with the actual subject.
At the Durham Region display, a charming gentleman gave me a tour of an ice fishing hut. That hut might even entice me to go ice fishing. I was surprised to discover that the gentleman hosting the booth was Brock Ward 2 Councillor Randy Skinner. What a great spokesperson for Brock Township.
It isn’t just the Food Building that will entice your sense of smell. The smells of fudge, dried beans and dips made my mouth water. I could have spent an hour smelling all the different homemade soaps at one booth.
Time to head out, grab a slice in the Food Building and visit the Direct Energy Centre. I wanted to check out the sand castles, now that they are finished. I was stunned at what these artists could complete in just 22 hours of work. The sheer size and amount of detail was staggering. Be sure to take a look at them while you can. These works of art are just temporary.
As I neared the Courtyard Stage the most ethereal music filled the air. Resting in one of the chairs was a visually impaired Asian man. He was playing the most beautiful, haunting music on a little tin whistle. Another magical Ex moment.
I headed west again toward Bandshell Park. By now the old feet starting to feel the affects of three days at the Ex. Time to try one of those foot massage chairs. Best quarter I ever spent. Definitely one for the sense of touch.
The highlight of my day, maybe my summer, was the 50 Years of Motown concert at the Bandshell. Tee Turner and three wonderful backup singers did a tribute to Marvin Gaye. The original Vandallas, The Contours and The Miracles all gave stellar performances. Highlights of the night for me were Do You Love Me by the Contours and Dancing in the Street by the Vandallas. We were all dancing in the park last night.
