Canadian National Exhibition Blog

2008 marked the CNE’s first foray into “blogging” and it was a learning experience.  Thank you to all of our bloggers, David Bednar, Scooter Korek and all the rest, for providing us with the inside scoop.  Thank you also to Official CNE Bloggers Contest Winners, Denise, Marilyn and Nicolas, for your contributions.  Things worked out great and we hope you have fabulous vacations with the help of your VIA Rail packages!  Readers won’t know this, but we decided to offer four trip vouchers to each Official CNE Blogger instead of the two that were promised at the outset, since each one of them did a fantastic job.

It’s time for us to sign off for the season, but we hope you’ve enjoyed reading the posts as much as we did gathering them.  The blog will be available for viewing during the off-season, however, please note that comments will be held for moderation.  Check back in the spring for more interesting stories and comments, as we gear up for next year’s fair!

If you have any questions or comments regarding the CNE Blog, please contact us at: cneblog@theex.com.

Have a great year and Let’s Go to The EX 2009: August 21 to September 7!

Sincerely,
The CNE Blog Team

2008 Canadian National Exhibition Association
Annual General Meeting

Fountain Dining Room, Queen Elizabeth Building,
Exhibition Place

Thursday, October 16, 2008; 10:30 a.m.

David Bednar, CNE General Manager, to Members, Directors and Guests

Members and Directors, staff and guests, thank you for taking the time to attend this morning.  It is great to see familiar faces and exciting to see some new ones.  This looks to me to be one of the best attended AGMs in recent memory, another positive sign of the good status of the CNE.  I am pleased to bring you my report to this meeting.

The Canadian National Exhibition had another successful year in 2008.  At this meeting last year, I called the 2007 CNE a “knockout, out-of-the-park home run”.  Well, if any of you thought we could do better — as it turns out, you were right.  All the improvements we made to our programming, marketing, and operations brought the fair to a new level this year.

After weeks of rain, the weather gods smiled on us and blessed the 130th Canadian National Exhibition with near perfect weather… once we got through Opening Day that is!  As you may recall, that Friday started out as a lovely sunny day for our Opening Ceremonies.  In the afternoon, however, an angry looking funnel cloud rode into town, and brought two friends: hail storm and pouring rain.  By end of day, it was proven that every cloud does have silver lining; eventually the bad weather departed and left behind a beautiful double rainbow that evening!

Overall, people came in droves throughout the 18 days!  Did gas prices keep more people in town?  Did the additional money invested in marketing this year reach more people?  Did folks just want to get out of the house after a long and soggy summer?  Hard to know for sure.  What we do know, is that 1.31 million people attended the fair this year.

The financial accounts are not final yet, and won’t be for some time, but our financial position looks promising at this time.  Overall, our revenues have exceeded budget, but I caution that there may well be some areas of expenses over budget.  The net position at the end of the year should exceed budget, but we won’t know until later.  Not only did we have a successful Ex, but many of our partners had their expectations exceeded.  Sponsors were happy — from Coke to Garnier to GM to Rogers, to name but a few, they all had a fantastic time.  We also had favourable reports from North American Midway Entertainment (NAME) as well as some exhibitors and concessionaires.

It was gratifying to see visitors of all ages from every cultural background enjoying a day at the fair.  Preliminary data from our research firm, suggests that 25% of visitors polled were extremely satisfied with their CNE visit; 60% were very satisfied, with 14% somewhat satisfied and a mere 1% not very satisfied.

Again this year, there were a few significant changes made to the layout of the fair.  What did you, Members of the Association, notice that was different?:

The Farm:

Yes, The Farm moved for starters.  As you may recall, the Automotive Building was under construction this summer as it is being transformed into the state-of-the-art Allstream Conference & Convention Centre.  The Farm, which has lived there for many years, was moved into the Better Living Centre.  We received many compliments on its new home.  Being so close to Kids’ World made it much easier for our guests with small children to get to The Farm.  Furthermore, the increase in natural light made it a more pleasant experience for both visitors and exhibitors not to mention the cows, pigs, goats and chickens who really liked their new “digs”.  Despite its proximity to the Casino, there were fewer problems with the new location than expected, and in general we think it was a good move.

Sports:

That said, when The Farm moved into the Better Living Centre, SportZone obviously had to move out.  Being the Olympic Year for Summer Games, we moved our sports activities outside just west of the Food Building presenting a very popular interactive sports program entitled Celebrate the Olympic Spirit.  However, the shopping that had traditionally resided in SportZone was still left without a home — which led, in part, to our next success story:

The Warehouse Extension in Hall G of the Direct Energy Centre:

I especially want to draw your attention to this area because you may not like what I have to say about it.  It was, without a doubt, one of the most popular successes of the 2008 CNE.  Stitches alone, the “anchor” vendor at the far north end of the area, experienced sales beyond all expectations.

One of the longstanding major criticisms of the CNE is that it is “nothing more than a flea market”.  I have heard this comment from the public, the media, and also from some of you, the Members and Directors.

As General Manager, here is my problem: on the one hand, I hear all this criticism; on the other, I see the obvious success of this new area.  Like it or not, fairs mirror their communities, and Toronto is obviously a shopping community.

The Rentals staff work diligently on the presentation, believe me, from every angle, from product mix to carpet to signage, and worry a lot about our image.  There are those who may not like the idea, but our audience clearly has a strong appetite for a bargain.

Midway:

A couple of things must be said about the midway.  Not only did we sign a new contract with North American Midway Entertainment and shift the north-south game line further west, we also made the first of a number of changes on the independent lines, changes I think must be made towards improving our customer’s experience.  Because they involve “moving”, or in some cases, “losing” locations, these changes have been difficult for some of our concessionaires to accept.

However, we will continue to move toward a more permanent midway layout, add new concessionaires, and change or reduce others.  Secondly, the NAME presentation was outstanding this year.  TSSA [Technical Standards and Safety Authority] officials said the rides were in the best shape they have ever seen.

Programming Highlights:

Highlights of the 2008 CNE?  Well, they vary… depending on whom you talk to.

Many of us will never be able to look at a “tennis ball” the same way again after ventriloquist Michael Harrison’s hilarious show.  The Canadian Forces Musical Salute was spectacular in BMO Field, a magical evening as the sun set to the strains of the 1812 Overture — although Rod Stewart, who was performing across the street, thought someone was trying to shoot at him when the cannons fired.

The Bandshell lineup was sensational and proved that people will come to the CNE to see concerts at the Bandshell.

We also know anectodally that people came from “near and far” to see the magnificent Quilt of Belonging in Heritage Court.  I don’t know how many of you were able to see it, but it was quite spectacular and featured 263 squares representing 71 aboriginal groups and 192 immigrant nationalities found in Canada.

Equestrian groupies took the reins with the three shows in Ricoh Coliseum: Hippike: A Gypsy Legend; The Rodeo and the RCMP Musical Ride.

We had two very popular attractions on Princes’ Boulevard including our Grand Illusion and Escape Artist Show and our evening show: Jump Jet featuring Ontario’s own Circus Orange and here’s a little trivia for you: 353 pyrotechnical effects at each performance every night of the fair.

Did anyone else notice how quiet the Air Show was this year?  The show ran to just under three hours and was spectacular with fewer noise complaints than we received last year.  As we all know, it is the final highlight of the CNE.

I would like to take this opportunity to give some thanks.  As Jim said, we benefit enormously from the excellent support of both the Board of Governors of Exhibition Place and the City of Toronto.  I also appreciate the support of the Executive and the Board of Directors.

You can always tell the staff at these meetings: they are the ones seated at the back.  I also must thank staff of Exhibition Place and MLSE [Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment].  I would ask our hardworking staff to stand and be recognized for putting on a terrific fair.  There will be some time to socialize after this meeting and I encourage you to get to know some of these individuals.  They are a great bunch of people to work with.  And finally thanks to you — the Members.

As members of our Youth Committee will tell you, the new ride the Mega Drop was a big hit in 2008!  It took 52 seconds to go up in this ride and 3 seconds to come down.  Rather like the stock market over the past couple of weeks!  Which leads me to talk about next year.

Unfortunately, despite the number of psychics exhibiting at the CNE, no one left behind their crystal ball.  We do not know what the economic landscape will look like next August.

Therefore, we are planning for next year’s fair carefully and prudently.  We are keeping a close eye on both pricing and expenses, as we work to service the best interests of the CNEA, our partners, and our customers.  As a result, this may mean a change in some of the previous recommendations staff had made for the 2009 fiscal year.

As we look to the future, I continue to rely on and value the great support of the Board and this Association, and invite you all to join us next summer from August 21st to September 7th for the 131st Canadian National Exhibition.  As you can tell, the fair is late next year.  In fact as late as the calendar allows.  But rest assured, our Horse Show and Casino will open early on August 4th.

We look forward to seeing you then!  “Let’s Go to the EX!”

Thank you

You may think that the biggest thrill can be found along the midway — and you’re not far from the truth — but if you really want to feel your heart race, then you need to check out The Rodeo.  It’s the first time we’ve been at the CNE in 25 years and we’ve got over 200 cowboys and cowgirls making their way to the EX to be a part of the action, featuring the Standard events of Rodeo and demonstrating the skills of the working cowhands.

Watch as the Women of Rodeo Barrel race and the Cowboys challenge the best in Bullriding.  The Bucking horses, Steer Wrestling and Roping events will all be a part of the action making this 4 action filled days.  This is entertainment that the whole family can enjoy so grab a seat and hold onto yer hat because you’re in for a heck of a ride!

Our experience here at the 130th annual CNE has been nothing short of spectacular.  The crowds have been fantastic, enthusiastic and totally pumped with our pyro-stunts.

But before I go any further, I’m sure there are a few people out there who don’t know what Circus Orange in JumpJet is all about, so let me paint you a picture.  The Jump Jet is a two ton industrial puppet-like structure and the main character in our pyrotechnic spectacle show playing each evening at 9:45pm.  Our JumpJet flies the heavens and beyond through the use of special effects, pyrotechnics and rigging marvels while suspended from a gigantic industrial crane.  Theatrical and acrobatic feats are performed under, on and above this amazing craft all set to dramatic live music and sound effects.

Nearly all the systems on the JumpJet were custom built by my team at our secret workshop outside Brantford, Ontario.  We put in hundreds and hundreds of hours working out every detail of the show so it would light up the sky and your imagination.  If you’re looking for a way to top off your day at the EX, there’s nothing more spectacular than Circus Orange in JumpJet.  The oooohs and ahhhhhs are on the house!

A spectacular aerialist and equestrian show.  Located in Ricoh Coliseum shows at 2pm and 7pm until August 28.

There was so much for the eyes to see.  There was a cinema type background screen, which was mostly displaying horses — but much more.  There was a singer and someone playing a violin, guitar and accordian (of course not at the same time).  There was a dancer, aerialists and acrobats.  These performers were on three different small stages near the rear with lots of room for the horses to entertain.  Then of course the horses with the riders dressed in costume.  All of these performers were wonderful.  I’m really not certain how long the performance lasted — time just flew as it was very entertaining.

There were railings on the stairway leading to the seats, which I found very helpful going up and down the stairs.

There was so much I saw that it is really hard for me to put down in words.  All I can say is that it is worth the while to go and see it.  I heard one woman say she was coming back again early for the 7pm performance.

Have you ever experienced a rush of excitement when an air show performer streaks across the sky?  As you look up to the sky in awe, the pilot might have the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the people on the ground.  The pilot’s brief glimpse of the people below is usually followed by a sly grin of satisfaction.  When you have “danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings” you look down on Earth a little differently.  From the pilot’s perspective, it’s not every day when you get to go out and put a smile on a million faces.

Flying is a journey of fantastic feats and unbelievable experiences.  Take a moment to imagine the greatest roller coaster ride you’ve ever experienced.  Then, multiply the thrill (and occasional terror) by 100.  Some people may ask, “Isn’t flying dangerous?”  Yes, it can be.  But you should know this — the priority of every air show pilot is never the thrill.  The number one priority is the safety of every single person on the ground.  Safety is built into everything an air show pilot does.

While flying you get to experience some truly unique things.  Many people think it’s all about the amazing machines of flight or the exquisite aerobatics.  It’s not.  Flying is all about the great people you get to know.  Ultimately, you’re left with great friends, fond memories, and unbelievable stories to tell.  There are a few things in life that can compete with that.  If you ever have the opportunity to go flying, don’t pass up the chance.  It’s something you’ll remember for the rest of your life, guaranteed.

Here’s wishing everyone a wonderful time at the Canadian International Air Show!

- “Az”
Canadian Harvard Aerobatic Team

For a few years I dated a girl from Brandon, Manitoba.  Brandon was our first stop in Canada and we often found a number of employees there who wanted to get the hell out of town, and the Carnival was a great way to see this great nation and earn a few bucks while you were at it.  My girlfriend was one of those people.  As the summer progressed so did our sordid little romance.

At the conclusion of the CNE we were tired and in need of a good meal, so the day after the CNE ended I suggested that we go for dinner and maybe take in some live music, which she agreed would be good for our worn out souls.  First off a little background, this girl from Brandon, Manitoba was maybe not very wise in the ways of the world, as this summer was the first time she had ever been out of Manitoba — therefore she was easily tricked.

At the time we stayed at Carlton Place, which was located right next door to Maple Leaf Gardens.  I suggested that I would take her to a very fine eating establishment and maybe she could wear a nice dress and perhaps a little makeup would be in order.  She was released from work earlier in the afternoon and I said that I would have to stay later to take care of some business and would meet her for dinner.  I drew her a map from the hotel, only three blocks north on Church street to where we would meet at the cross street of Maitland @ 7:00pm.

At that time Church and Maitland was a location for streetwalkers.

I arrived a bit early and sat in the coffee shop across the street and soon there was my girl from Brandon, Manitoba strutting up the street and stopping at the preset location.  As she is standing there patiently, looking pretty as ever, waiting for me, the working girls at the corner are eyeing her up and pointing in her direction.  Soon, one of the girls comes over to confront her, the Brandon girl just ingores her and thinks this is some sort of crazy whack job.  Some guys in cars slow down and check her out, she still has not figured it out.  The same working girl now approaches her again and I think enough is enough I better go get her.  The working girl is having some cross words with my friend and she finally clues in to what she has gotten herself into as I cross the street.  As I get close she is furious with me and does not see the humour in the matter — still the working girl is firing cross words in our direction.

Soon Ms. Brandon has cooled down and thinks I need some serious mental assessment — we go for dinner with live music to follow.

The girl from Brandon now resides, very happily, in Waterloo, Ontario, with four children and is a long-time employee of TD Canada Trust.  I see her every August as she visits the CNE each year with her family and she often says that the three summers she spent with Conklin Shows ticket office were some of the best times of her life.

Flying at the extremes of aircraft and human performance for an air show demands superhuman focus on one’s technical ability, confidence in mechanical preparation, and the ability to reach a “zone” of mental concentration that blocks out any distractions.  Practicing every day allows all of this to take a back seat in the conscious mind.  Once the highest level of proficiency is reached, the mind and body are turned loose in a video game fantasy of 3D thought.  You don’t think about how.  Your body already knows how.  The normal physical constraints for the body are gone.  My body adapts to the airplane so completely that the tips of the wings talk to me like fingertips running over silk.  I am almost overwhelmed by the smell of carbon fibre, burnt oil, and gas.  Every plane has its own smell.  The engine vibrates and if anything is not right, it talks to me.  My plane does not love me, though.  It will kill me if I do not take this game seriously.  This is not for the weekend warrior.  Air show flying is for the person who has flying in his blood and exhales it with every breath.  I feel sick if I can’t get my flying endorphins.

I am totally aware of the spectators.  I know the numbers watching instantly from the air.  I notice arm movement.  I love to see rabid fans.  I enjoy speaking with anyone that similarly cannot contain their excitement towards this demonstration of mind matched with machine.  It is a mutual appreciation of a peculiar kind of beauty.  It bonds us all together at the show.  I can feel it.  I can’t wait to return for another show.

In 1985 Bruce Springsteen’s massive hit album “Born in the USA” dominated the airwaves across North America.  In the heat of Springsteen’s 1985 tour, the CNE hosted Bruce two evenings, Monday, August 26th and Tuesday, August 27th at Exhibition Stadium.

Toronto and the media are abuzz over the arrival of Bruce in town, and the front page of the city’s newspapers are filled with coverage of his arrival.  To this day I cannot remember a show at Exhibition Place that drew such attention and hype.

For the first night Monday show, Bruce arrives by limousine off Lakeshore Boulevard along the east side of Exhibition Place to under the Players sign to the backstage area.  There are so many fans that the trip from Lakeshore to the stage takes over 45 minutes due to the frenzy.  The show is delayed and management is getting worried that the 80,000+ fans are getting anxious.  Finally, the show goes off without a hitch and is a huge success.

Urban legend has it that the following evening, to avoid the fan frenzy and another delay in the show, CNE management organizes a Conklin Shows tractor-trailer to pick up Bruce from a pre-set location downtown and bring him to the CNE in the sleeper in the back of the truck.

To whom it may concern,

As a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for the past 22 years and a former member of the RCMP Musical Ride I can tell you that showing at the Canadian National Exhibition is one of the highlights of the Canadian tour.  The tradition of the RCMP Musical Ride showing at “the EX” dates back to the early 1920’s when the Coliseum was built.  Photos from the era depict sold out crowds, smiling faces and of course the Mountie in Red Serge on his big black horse.  I did say “his” horse because in the 20’s all of the riders were male, now half of the Musical Ride is made up of female riders.

The stabling area and warm up ring are very nostalgic for me as the horse stalls are original to the building and the ring still has the glass skylight that the Coliseum used to have.  If you are warming up your horse in that arena and look up you can see the bright sunshine that pours in and seems to be a given when the Ex is on.  I have seen the greatest horses and riders from Canada and the world warm up in that ring and that is inclusive of Big Ben and Ian Miller.  Whether you’re waiting to be called to compete with Olympic level riders or to perform the Musical Ride it is that ring that will house your stage fright and determination to put on a great show for the crowd.

When the Musical Ride is called to perform, the short walk to the Coliseum in troop formation of 32 horses leads you to the ramp to the floor of the arena.  Bright Red Tunics, polished leather, shining brass and spurs, gleaming black horses all waiting in formation.  The lances that we carry will not pass under the final arch to the arena so they are carried on an angle until it is cleared.  The RCMP Officer in charge will yell the command “Carry Lance” to which they are snapped to attention.  The sound system booms the ceremonial march music and you know you are back at the glorious tradition that is the Exhibition grounds.

On Tuesday morning after the performances are concluded, the horses and tack are loaded for the truck ride back to Ottawa.  The horse stables become a very quiet place and a great satisfaction washes over you and your co-riders for the performances that you completed to the great applause of the sold out crowds.  If you listen closely before you leave the stable area you can almost hear all of the people and horses that showed before you throughout the decades loading up to leave as well.  That is a great feeling to have and a great tie to a historic tradition and landmark that is the Canadian National Exhibition.

Cst. Terry Russel
Police Community Relations Officer
GTA Commanders Office
Toronto North Detachment