A Kid at the State Fair
September 30th, 2008Man nothing like the State Fair to bring back memories of being a kid. I still miss the big neon sign that let you know the fair was here when it was all lit up. It was something to go to the fair last night and march in the parade. Honestly, in all the years I’ve been to the fair, I never knew there was a parade. Stepping over all the power cables aside as we marched it was pretty cool to see people’s reaction as we came marching by. I’m still amazed at how loud the pipes can be. 8 pipers can darn near drown out an entire high school marching band. After our parade through the fair we circled up in front of the Commonwealth buildings and played a few tunes for the folks that were passing by. (Take this next sentence for what it’s worth) Luckily we were performing as the racing pigs show let out and attracted quite a crowd. We had the old pipe case open and the crowd showed their support by giving graciously.
The lights to all the rides were on and the midway was fully lit as I headed back to the car. I was trying to take it all in as I don’t know if I’m going to be able to get back out there this year. I was purposely trying to stroll down memory lane as this is the fair’s last year at this location. The smell of the food was awesome. (Could have been that I hadn’t eaten yet) The kids laughing, the carnival barkers, souvenirs, animals, neon signs, and rides it all sparked that little kid inside me. Not to mention one of the first dates I went on with my wife was to the fair. (There’s a “cute” story about a runny nosed donkey that goes with that date but that’s for another time) I can only hope my girls will have such memories to look back on when they are grown. Try to pay attention at the Richmond Games this year also because next year they’ll be in a new spot as well.
Now the trip down memory land is complete and I have to move on. But before I do I’d like to give a big thank you to everyone who gave money and the State Fair for having us out. Meanwhile back at the piper’s pit…
Robin was holding things down with the beginners and the Emerald Society. A big thank you to Robin as well for all his work, I think everyone has a good foundation and solid fundamentals when they are ready to leave the nest and move up to the “big kids” table. Chris Fox even helped out this week due to the fact his work prevented him from making the parade. He took the more experienced beginners and worked with them. I’d like to welcome our three newest members Donald Raybould, Will Riddell and Evan Maxwell. Evan actually showed up last night so Evan we’ll all meet you next week.
Williamsburg is next on the schedule. I’m looking forward to our performance with the Ft. Lee band. Should be something to see and hear. I’m also excited to see how Greater Richmond does with their bands. Hopefully we can all stroll over as a band and show our support while they perform. I’m also excited because I’m going to officially join Clan MacKintosh of North America. Hopefully that membership will be as fulfilling as my memberships with the Irish American Society and the Scottish Society of Richmond. Stay tuned for a wrap of the Williamsburg games and many more exciting events coming up. Hope to see you all an upcoming event.














