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| Dana |
Winnipeg - Toronto |
West |
Ride Operator |
| Had a great experience there, met some great friends that I still talk to to thos day. |
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| Danielle Bryan |
2 |
West |
Ride Jock |
| I started out as green help and ended up falling in love with the carnival life. I packed up some stuff and hit the road and had the time of my life working the shows, traveling around the country. I had to leave the show for health reasons but I'll always be a carnie at heart. And I always go to the fair when it comes to my town. |
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| Dannie Godin |
1994-1999 |
Patriot Unit/West |
A few |
| Started out on the Patroit unit working the games with Larry/Doc. Moved over to the western tour and had pretty much every job in the Ticket Office. I loved my six summers with the company. As far as I'm concerned I got paid to see my country! The school fundraising parties were a blast! |
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| Darcy Davis |
13 |
West |
Hankypanks / PC wheels |
| Howdy Carny Alumni. Started first year of western Road show as muzzler working balloon tag for Eva under Mr Steve Adamski/Mike Higgins. Worked stock joints until I started dealing peas For Susy Gravelle first pc game later for Donny Larson/Robert Hall/and Fred Glascow. Managed outside GCC wheels for a spell and time in the Casino. Im from Vancouver and came out stampede 05 to Say Hi to all my Jointee friends that are still humping and shuck'in and to pay tribute to My Father Jack Davis who passed on Nov 13th o4. He will be missed by the old crew. thanks for the space to write. If anyone who knows me wants to chew the fat please drop a email regards Darcy Davis active 1976-1991 |
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| Darrell Darnell |
1.5 |
West |
Rides - Giant Wheel |
| Conklin Shows was my breakout into the real world of employment as an adult. I learned that real, hard work is rewarding and that some relationships last for years.
Working the "Wheel" was a pleasure! I had a great time travelling the country with Conklin, for the short time that I did. |
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| Dave Godley |
|
|
|
| In the 1970's I was co-owner of G&G Electronics in Oshawa, Ontario and did sound work for Conklin at the CNE and for the Road Show. My initial contact was Sergei Sawchyn and later dealt directly with Jim Conklin. I repaired and fixed sound equipment for the show. I am now retired and live in Darlington, MD. Last night my wife and I went to the local carnival (we're in our late 50's) and I took her on a ride. It reminded me of the good old days working for Conklin. As we grow older we remember good times in our lives and my experience with Conklin Shows was most enjoyable - all the best to you. |
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| dave pikowsky |
12yr |
West |
forman kiddieland and fireball |
| just to say it was one of the most fun times i had in canada and usa like to say hi to miss pat roger and yankee it been a long time and everybody in westplam to bad it all change because they lost a lot of good people. |
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| David Mackay |
1980-83 |
West |
Conko the Clown |
| I was Conko the Clown at Playland in Vancouver. As, well I was a supervisor for a number of the midway games. |
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| Deanna Mantee |
1985-1991 1996-1999 |
All |
All different types |
| I started working for the show when I was quite young.. only in my home city of Regina though. From then on I worked for Meester Mike across Canada only to return home after T.O. (what stories I could tell there) I worked for Mitch for a few years in Canada also a few years in Dade with McCullough. What can I say about the show - I love it. I made a lot of good friends some of which I still stay in touch with. Some days I wish I could go back but right now children are my life - maybe when they grow up I might be back! |
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| Deb Wilson |
3 |
West |
ride jock |
| I enjoyed my time on the rode made some great friedns who I lost over the years. Jamie and trevor tree and a few others. Big shout out to anyone that worked for Billy truax they were more than just a boss. But a great firend.hope to hear from some people and get back in touch with ones I have lost Deb |
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| Debbie aka Duck |
3 |
West |
ride jock |
| HI would like to say thank you to some people from the rode who made me grow up when I was lost. that would be Jimmy lee and his wife Lisa also Billy Truax and the gang there. Also if anyone knows how to find Jamie who worked for Bill Truax in 94 and the Pizza joint please tell him I am looking for him. Thanks hope to here from some other friends |
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| Debbie Roberton Short legs |
1979-1994 |
West |
games & rides |
| I started working for Conklin when I was 16 and finally quit when I was 28. I worked For Ten Toes (Joe) In the balloon games but I also work for Conklin in kiddie land and also for Jimmy-Lee. I finished out my years managing for Barry S. I had many good years there made alot of friend and saw a lot of diffrent place,traveled Canada and the Usa. Spent a few winter in West palm Beach. I still miss the traveling and the people.To my amigos out there" we were swanging" |
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| DEREK POTAPCZUK |
8 |
West |
HIGHSTRIKER OPERATOR |
| loved every minute, wouldn't chage a single thing other than black monday in toronto and that guy who got a pretty good shot at me in yonkers !!!!!! |
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| Derek Vivier a.k.a JR |
1988-2001 |
West |
foreman/ supervisor/ transportation assistant |
| Im going to tell you if I chose a different lifestyle it wouldn't be as interesting as my life growing up with all my cherished friends on Conklin Shows through the years.. u know who you are! I could tell you names but there are too many to list. In the beginning, my mothers boyfriend at the time answered an ad for the show in 1988. It turned out to be for a diesel mechanic/truck driver for Chino Zacchini/Teo Zacchini & Sons (we all remember Teo). If it weren't for his family I wouldn't have learned a good portion of my skills of machining, welding etc. Building rides with them at such an early age was cool. I was seeing places that only people dream of at 16. My mother gave me parental supervision, while working for the Zacchinis. I stayed with Chino until 1994. He and his father trained me in various types of machine shop work in Sarasota Fla. regarding manufacturing of dark rides and fun houses. There was a lot of people involved in my life at that time. Steve and Lisa Kaschl (Adam). To Steve, you taught me a lot. Lisa, thanks for being there. You guys made a lot of sense and took the time to teach me the things I know about the business. When we first got involved with Conklin, was in Calgary for the Stampede. This guy was rolling by with a stock cart and asked me if I wanted a job. Working for Bob Negus in the Bingo. My mom worked for the Negus family as well in 1988. And go figure, I would be a carnie for the next 17 years. It's sad though Conklin is gone. My friends have come and gone but the few remain and if I could trade it in for a different life, I would say not a chance. Thanks to Conklin for some awesome memories and in rememberance to the fallen carnies that I was able to be part of their lives growing up on this show. TEO ZACCHINNI, BOB NEGUS, DARIO ZACCHINI. These three definitely had an impact in my life. MISS U GUYS REST IN PEACE WE MISS U. And for everyone that I had the honor to
know, I will miss the times we had. CHEERS TO EVERYONE. PERSONALLY I MISS MY HOME. It's sad Conklin Shows is gone, but the legacy of Conklin is in our minds and my heart forever...JUNIOR... |
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| DeWayne Brown |
6 seasons and a few winters |
West |
ridejock / jointee |
| I started on the "Lover's Lake in Billings Montana in 1978. I moved over the the Wave Swinger the next year with the Southern Comfort Unit.Got my Conklin watch that year in Regina. I was part of the first crew that went to Puerto Rico. What a plane ride! After a few years I defected to the Joints for money working for CanAm Amusements. Being a part of Conklin was a life altering experience that has made me who I am today. My first family. |
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| DJ Pepin "the original blinkee boy" |
off and on since 95 |
West |
Rides & E Tickets |
| My career started with my "uncle phil" getting me a job at the shop in Brantford for the summer when I was 16. There I assited Bernie and Russel Airdrie doing carpentry work at the shop. On weekends and sometimes during the week they would send us out to do ride rentals maybe for a day or two. An eye opening experience, for someone who never had a real job before then. The following two summers I helped out on the g-wheel, working with Yonkers and Mike Bangle. Getting a true taste for the life, that I would later come to love. After a two year hiatus I started helping out Scoot with e-tickets and building some of the boxes used for that system (maybe that's why they don't work). I continued for three more years after that doing e-tickets and ticket office stuff. Along the way I met my current girlfriend who we now have a beautiful little boy Caeden. Along with Norma I also met too numerous of friends to mention, you all know who you are. I am very thankful to all those who had the patience to work with me and teach me. Most of all the best boss in the world - SCOOTER, who taught me more then he knows. Thanks. |
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| Donald A. Bertrand |
13 years |
All |
Kiddieland sup. |
| Yes, we all have just one. |
| |
| Donnie "Monster" Barker |
24 started in 79 |
West and CNE |
|
| met lots of great people and had lots of great times |
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| Doug Petersen |
1989-1990 |
West, CNE |
Spot store agent |
| Had A Great time |
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| Duane "t-bone" Fraser |
7 |
West |
enterprise 1st man and foreman |
| since i was about 7 or 8 i have always had a fasination with rides this little fair used to come to abbotsfield mall parking lot and i used to sneak away from home and walk across abusy street just to watch the rides they were fasinating to me. my dad would always find me standing in front of the tiltawhirl just watching it go round and round. my grandma used to live a block away from the fairgrounds in edmonton and i used to sit on this hill and just watch the trucks and rides pull in it was my goal at that age to become a carni.when i finally turned 16 that was my first year doing set up. my first ride i ever touched was the enterprise. i didnt work on it ijust set it up. on that ride i went thru 7 foreman before i became foreman anyway i used to hitchhike from edmonton to calgary and thats where i started from after we were done in toronto i would always come back home to edmonton. my seventh year is when my dream came true an
d i did the whole tour it was great ill never forget it. i actually met my wife in florida she was working in one of the corndog stands. that was about 4 years ago and were still together here in edmonton. anyway i just would like to thank conklin shows for making a young boys dream come true.thank you duane fraser edmonton alberta. p.s tell rodger thompson, jim carry,and the rest of them T-Bone from the enterprise says hi. if anyone wants to write me my adress is 18132-93ave edmonton alberta,t5t-1y1. |
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| duane |
13-14 |
West |
1st man and forman |
| ive been the first man on the enterprise for many years and ive been thru many foreman anyway my nickname on it was t-bone everyone knew who i was from rodger thompson and his wife to jim caskey and the list is long but anyway i just wanted to say hi to everyone yes even you al rankin from the polar ill get you back for puttin the sleeper hold on me that day i still remember my wife olga says hi too to everyone yes were still together and i miss you all my address is 18132-93ave nw if anyone cares to write or visit my postal code is t5t-1y1 oh yeah say hi to darren from the swings if hes still there ok. used to be herbie but thats a whole other storie. anyway my phone number is (780) 487-8451 leave a message if im not home. so take care everyone love T-Bone |
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| Evelyn Bangle |
15 |
West |
CARNIVAL KID |
| I went to Conklin Shows International Academy and it was the best school I've ever attended I miss it dearly specail thanks to linda brewer for helping me all these years and to the eduaction the conklin school has given me. |
| |
| Flattop |
3 |
Trillium Unit |
Rides |
| Tearing down the dragon wagon one night by myself I could hear Barry Jamieson yelling at Art and then went onto the next ride. As I carried track on to the platform he walked into the centre of the ground where everything was laid out. He was still yelling as I hopped over the wagon.I grabbed another piece of track, hustling my ass off I loaded it and hopped the buckets again.As I was grabbing another piece Barry says to me "slow down son this isn't a race"Having a bad enough week I kept at the same pace not wanting to "#&$@" him off.I tore the wagon down that night in 36 minutes.I enjoyed working there it was fantastic. |
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| Fred and Sue |
fred-lots (ha ha), Sue - 10 |
West |
BSR Agents |
Hi Everyone! Fred and I got together one night during Yonkers, New York, 1998. Punky and Alan flew us to Las Vegas to marry in 2001,(thanks guys). Eight years later we are still happily married. We will always remember the good times we've had and great friends we've made.Thank you Cassata Concessions and Conklin Shows.Fred and Sue.
(updated) |
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| Gail Anderson-Checkley |
1985-1999 (temp carnie) |
Wpg,Calg,Edm,Reg,TB. |
Kiddie Rides + ride painter |
| Winnipeg, Mb. I began working for Conklin Shows once at 18 yrs old, in ticket sales. Then at 28, Winnipeg only at RR Ex(Polo Park) the pillows for four years, Kiddieland. My heart set on operating the Merry-go-Round. I believe I am the only woman Metis artist to have done carnival art in the shows. I painted while the show slept. I'll never miss set ups and tear downs in the pouring rain (maybe not). For my grandson - Deion Nelson, he'll be a carney - both his parents are! |
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| Gail Camposarcone |
6 years |
CNE @ Toronto |
Kiddie rides - Don B. |
| I enjoyed my years working for Conklin Shows. It was an experience I'll never forget. I met lots of new friends from all over. Thanks for the expreience. |
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| Gail Connor's |
1978-1979 |
East, West |
Booths |
| Conklin Shows; god what a fun time in my past history. Enjoyed all the staff I worked with and all the people I met on the road. Wishing everyone well....Gail |
| |
| Gareth Strydom |
Since 2003 |
West |
Game -> Ticket office manager |
| I was part of the first ever group of South Africans that joined the show in 2003. That year I worked for Dobco and enjoyed every minute. All thanks to a special lady from the Brantford office who made that trip possible. Thank you May. You have done more for me than you will ever know. I will be forever grateful. Thank you for trusting me. Who would have thought that the irritating South African that disturbed you at home, would have lasted this long. That year I met Tracey, Dobco Daves better half. Driving across Canada with Tracey, opened a new door for me. In 2004 I returned for another season, but this time working for her in the ticket office. Tracey stopped travelling that year because she was having a baby. A big thank you to her for giving me a chance. Couple of days into South Florida Fair, I met DOC. With DOC, what you see is what you get. I could not have asked for a better boss. He taught me everything there was to learn and allowed me to gain the knowledge and experience needed for my position today, ticket office manager. He will always have my respect, professionally & personally. Thanks DOC.During my time with Conklin, I had the privilege of working with loads of amazing people. There was never a boring moment, everyday different to the next. I would learn something new each day. One person who will always have a special place in my heart, is MISS PAT from the ride office. All the South Africans love her dearly. I remember that I often use to just go and sit with her in her office and talk. She would always have these facinating stories from years back. Miss Pat, always willing to go that extra mile for someone. On behalf of all the South Africans you met over the years, I thank you from the bottom on my heart for making us feel at home. So the 2006 season starts, this being my fourth year with show, new ownership and all. Justin, Allan and myself are the only three South Africans st
ill with the show since 2003. I have had a blast and have no regrets. Thank you Conklin Shows for kick starting a life experience that I will always cherish. A huge thank you to everyone that contributed in making my time with Conklin enjoyable. |
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| George Penwarn |
1978 |
West |
publicity |
| I was hired with a small group of applied communications students out of Mount Royal College in Calgary to travel with the antique carnival that was unveiled at the Calgary Stampede and moved on to the Ex in Toronto. It was an amazing collection of antique rides that I remembered from when I was a kid. The caterpillar is one that stands out in mind as well as a very old merry go round that I believe was over 100 years old. We arrived in Toronto for a round of publicity and during the ex We walked around the midway putting on small vaudeville type shows for the crowds. It was a great job and I enjoyed the life of a carnie if only for a few months that summer. I learned a lot from the permanent employees that made Conklin Shows their life...It was an honourable profession that they took great pride in. I have a great Conklin watch that has stayed with me over the years....Conklin Shows, Matchless Magnificance. |
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| Glenn Calbeck [aka] GUMMER |
Been there off and on 44 years |
West |
Games and rides |
| I remember as a kid the carnival coming to Pembroke Ontario and working in the milkbottle joint for a beautiful lady by the name of [ I beleive ] June who later became Hank Blades wife. That was in 1954 -55 I remember sneaking into the girlie shows for a quick peek . lol Like most fellers on the road we all have a story to tell that we could write a book about it. I ran away from a foster home and joined a circus In ichmond Ontario where I leared to do trapeze and tramboline work. I fell and hurt my back so I could not perform anymore.The man I worked for got in touch with Ron McGee who I met for the first time under the Burlington skyway and got my first job working the good ole fishpond, back then it was known has Bernard shows.Those people took me in like I was one of there own. The show then was owned by Bernie & Sally Arent. I met and married my first wife on that show at Fairbanks park in Toronto divorce her too. I went to
work in the winter time driving tow truck for Green;s towing in Toronto and was freeked to find my ex and her boyfriend all stoned on speed had killed my adopted perents Bernie and Sally .I had to dig my ex out from under the dash of the car she was in.Since then I became a truck driver going U.S and Canada I got to visit a lot of the good ole carnies all over North America There are alot of stories to tell but not enough time left. Retired now in Ottawa still the same old Gummer for those who knew me. I now enjoy working for my old friend Tommy Wilcox and Bruce Brock of Classic Amusments.If any of you old farts are still kicking get in touch at mrgummer@hotmail.com . Until then God Bless you all and have a safe and prosperous summer 2008 |
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| Gordana |
1999-2002 |
|
Game operator |
| I worked for conklin for 3 years. It was the best 3 years of my life..:) |
| |
| Gordana |
3 or 4 |
East |
Games |
| Still in school, but working out there as much as possible, got the privlege to work on both trillum & talbot, both units had their great people and their great times!!.I'll never forget it!!..Phil's right, once it's in your blood, you can't get it out! Thanks to worldsfinest for some of the greatest times in my life, and many more to come!!;)- -miss cortina bob- |
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| Gordon Atkinson |
15 |
West |
Bingo |
| The Bingo Bigtop has always been the class of the rough and tumble carnie world, a quiet, & orderly oasis amid the shrill storm of midway attractions. It's a meeting place (Toronto in Ojibwa) where the tired and the hot, young and old, can settle into a comfortable place. I am the last of the "Ab-original Bingo Boys' - a batch of men and women from reserves, nbsp and cities across Canada who over the years worked at the bingo tent. |
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| Gordon Breedon |
4 years |
World's Finest Shows |
Ride operator |
| I joined because I was high ! |
| |
| Graham Jones |
4 |
West |
Financial Operations |
| I started at the CNE in Toronto where I was a ticket seller. The following summer I worked in the WRS in Financial operations, primarily working in ticket office. This is where I met my wife Bonnie (Martin). Bonnie and I have been married for 20 years now and have 2 children (Brett 17, Megan 14). Conkin provided me experiences that I will never forget from travel to fun. One of my fondest memories is being "Tina the ticket weigher". We had a talent night in Regina after closing. That was a riot! |
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| Haley Nixon |
9 |
Canada / USA |
Lots |
| I love everything I ever absorbed while with the show. Would not trade it for the world. |
| |
| Haley Nixon |
9 |
Canada / USA |
Too many to list! |
| I love you all. I miss the "carnie life" but now am OK in Calgary. Can't wait to see the show but the new operator sucks and that is why I left. I hope that all of you that I know on this page will get a hold of me !!!!!!!!!!! Miss you all and the lifestyle most of all. luvluv Haley |
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| Harris Michael and Pat |
five |
West |
stock manager, game manager , Kids balloon tying etc.... |
| Mick harris, wife and three of our 6 children worked for Frank and Dorothy Eastman on Conklin shows we lived in Paris Ont. but came from Nottingham shire. We stayed for 4/5 years but went back to England to the love of our lives Horse racing . All the family look back on those years as some of the best in life .Mick did stock manager oh those endless semi's of stock I( Pat)ran a punk rack and balloon game and my son Jamie tied ballons for Big Al and Little Al as we fondly called them He..(Jamie )said he was the fastest at balloon tying in the west. Sadly Mick died aged 72 in 2005 He allways wanted to get in touch with the Tax man ,do you know who you are?Dot and frank were very good to us as were other people . Good Days .Can give you more plus a few photos Any body can get in touch please |
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| Haven Elliott |
1980 summer |
West |
ride attendant |
| I spent the summer of 1980 with the Western tour from Winnipeg Red River days, through the Calgary Stampede, Edmonton Klondike Days and then Regina's Buffalo days. After returning to Ontario with the crew I returned to Dunnville and prepared for my last year of high school. On the evening of my 18th birthday and no promise of getting a job I flew, with Wardair to Winnipeg, I caught the show during the setup at Winnipeg Stadium, sleepin under the grandstand for a couple of nights, before getting hired. I had my very first legal beer on the flight form Toronto. Neil Croft was one of my best friends, who travelled with the show from Brantford. His older sister worked as an accountant with the show.After I got hired, I worked under Gordie Banks, who got ime nto one of the bunk trailers. I slept in the front room couch about a week until a bunk opened up.The things I will always remember, are seeing Loverboy at Stampede's midnight madn
ess and the 36 hour turnaround between the Stampede close and Edmonton opening. The other thing was being of age in Manitoba and Alberta,. Even though there was a beer strike in AB, we drank anything out of the US, None of which I can remember. I look forward to hearing form anyone who knows where Neil is these days.Thanks forthe memories.Haven |
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| Hayley |
Since 1985 |
West,East,South,Patriot Everywhere |
Whatever needed to be done |
| My time with Conklin was great would love to hear from any of the people I used to work with! |
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| helen grant |
late 60's early 70's |
West |
fire eater |
| my parents as well as two of my aunts worked in the late 60's throught the early 70's, my mother was very young at the time but she was a fire eater,she also worked with a snake, my father wore a gorilla suit for his part. I have photos of some of the people they worked with. |
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| Holde Unverzagt |
28 |
West |
Artist |
| In 1972 I started to paint amusement park rides for Conklin in Toronrto. and worked for this company freelance until 1999.I never met nicer people and enjoyed all the time I worked for Jim or Frank and there is also Worlds fines with the finest people and Super showsLoved all of you. Thank you for letting me paint my way..ha ha (sounds like old big blue eyes)Hope you still enjoy the big swing, Polar express, clown-fun- dark houses and all the other rides I painted. Good luck and great health to all of you. |
| |
| Hoss |
1980's |
East |
Rides |
| Just wanted to say hi to all my carnie friends. Thanks! |
| |
| Howard "LURCH" Pringle |
25 |
West, CNE, South |
ride goon,purchasing agent, bus driver, baby sitter, concession manager |
| Railroaded by the new corp. "b" route operator will never be able to do it. |
| |
| Jaime |
3 |
West |
ticket operator/ manager |
| also worked Bernard unit and CNE |
| |
| Jami |
4 |
West |
name one |
| i did work for the show but i am actually doing this to see if someone can help me find a former lauther employee. his name is mark bryant. most called him bird. i know that he worked for lauther in west palm and miami in 2004. i need to find him because he has a daughter that is in dire need of his help. not finacally but in other ways more personal. please if you know him or have a means of contacting him please e-mail me spazical83@yahoo.com same goes for peter doyle |
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| James Collins |
3 |
West |
Ride Operator, Jointee |
| I worked on WFS for Three years, I Worked, Polar Express, And The Cobra Coaster, @ The Ottawa Super Ex I set Up and Tore Down MARK 1 and Niagra Falls, on Two Seperate Years, I would Have whent on to The Western Show if Conklin Still Existed, I'm From Windsor And I love Conko |
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| Jamie Shappee |
2 |
West |
wild cat ride jock |
| first spot was ruff but it got easer as time went on. I had lots of fun working for Slice and Quintin. |
| |
| Janet Murton |
1980's |
Bicycle Unit / Southern Comfort |
Ticket Booths |
| Too many to tell...was a lot of fun. |
| |
| Janice Berens |
1975-1978 |
Winnipeg |
Candy Floss / Apples |
| The first year I worked there I was skipping school to do so. I was so proud of myself. I went down and got hired all by myself. I started to work right away. I was so smart(ha,ha)I never thought my parents would know. Everything turned out OK and I was hooked for a few years. Today June 19th,2003 I watched as my daughter walked out the door - where to? - to work in a pizza stand at the Ex. Like parents like child. My husband also worked there. |
| |
| Janice Kitson |
3 seasons |
West / USA |
Birthday Game / Arcade |
| Will take a while - worked with Jeannnie Jefferies and for Dave King. |
| |
| Janna Collingwood |
1983-1984 |
South and West |
Rides |
| I first saw Conko on a sweatshirt a co-worker was wearing in 1980 in Eugene, OR. He and his wife told stories about the size of Conklin's midway, the rides we had never even heard of, the great working conditions, how Conklin was the biggest and best ever. Most of us thought it was tall tales and wishful thinking, and since none of us would probably ever see this for ourselves, of little interest. Our show was small, but clean, well run, and well thought of in our area and we were proud of it. A few years later, I met someone else who was returning to Conklin and I took the opportunity to go along. Imagine my surprise the first time I saw the Giant Wheel! This was 1983, and I had never seen anything taller than a Skydiver. We were set up at Atlantis, a water park in Ft. Lauderdale, and as I walked the midway, each ride more amazing than the last, I could hear the stories...all true. Everyone kept telling me,"This is nothing. Wait 'til you see Dade County!" The people I met, and the things I learned stay with me. I think of you all often and smile. Winning awards at the Regina party, stripping the lights off the GW (overcoming my fear of heights with John and Tiny's help!), the friends I still keep in touch with...and the ones that have passed on...all great memories that I treasure. I still miss being on the road. |
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| Jason Rideout |
2004 |
World's Finest Shows |
Rides / Games |
| Well; it all started with a dare from a friend of mine one night at a party. Before I knew it I was on the road with some of the best people I ever met.I know one thing for sure - I can't wait to get back on the road..... |
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| Jean Krycki (Jaybird) |
6 years |
West |
Jointee flukey ball, wheels |
| Hi Everyone. I worked all over, from independents, Bicycle, trillium, western road show, down south for a winter. I just loved it, and I still keep in contact some of my old friends. I still have a lot of pictures that I will keep for ever of my life then. I miss the job, the people and the travel. |
| |
| Jeff C |
1986-90 |
West |
Ticket/cash Office |
| Just thought this would be a good way to get in touch with some old friends |
| |
| Jeff Gibbs |
1982-1983 |
West |
Motion Equipment Corp. |
| I worked under Bill Prebble out of Florida. He had a dark ride, the haunted house, and three or four kiddy rides, including kiddy bumper cars. I met my wife working in Canada (she worked consessions). We are still married today (22 yrs). Toronto was the best. I can still remember the hard work and the crazy after hrs fun. That Gorilla Girl was something else too. |
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| Jeff McGee |
Several |
Trillium Unit / Worlds Finest |
Rides |
| I was the only kid I think that didn't want to grow up and have the police man, fireman dream. I had the work for the carnival dream. Met Barry Jamieson and Steve Choate when I was maybe 11 years old, helped them lay out the lot year after year and work as a local, always telling them that someday I'm gonna travel with you guys.Finally later on in the 90's I finished my schooling and went on the road to still be there today, moving rides and also I own a couple games now as well, which covers the gas with the prices in the last couple seasons! |
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| Jeff Woo aka Bruce Lee |
1992-2003 on and off |
West |
Rides |
| It was a great experience and a real eye-opener, I've enjoyed the friendship with the people of Conklin Shows over the years and the people I've met at the different places that we've played. I am thankful for what this business has taught me and the memories. Just in case you don't remember who I am, I am the chinese dude who was recently the operator on the Sno-Ball Express as well I have operated the Orbiter. |
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| Jen |
2 |
West |
freak show girl then birthday girl! |
| When my mother's friend's roommate caled me yp and asked if I wanted to do the Canadian tour with her freak show, my first thought was "why not"? SO I walked back into my job at the time and gave them my notice. After a 30 hour bus ride to Winnipeg I was kind of rethinking my choice. But I stuck and stayed. And it payed! Months of mosquito bites, feeling near death sickness, Calgary length days and a few too many sunrises, I made it home to Toronto. That summer was the best of my life. The people that are the blood and guts of that show are the most wonderful people I've ever had the privilage of meeting. And naturally after that summer I couldn't resist going state side. Mr. Dave Potopas was kind enough to get me a visa on a week's notice and off I went. And when I made huge mistakes, Dave and Monica saved me. They will always have a special place in my heart. I can't thank them enough. I also want to thank all the great friends
I made during my time out there. There's too many to name so I hope they know who they are. Love you all. |
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| Jennifer King |
1 |
West |
ride/ candyland/ games |
| I started at the CNE in toronto working on the Fireball in 2002 and travelled until march of 2003 i went to candyland in south carolina and then worked with dave potopus in games that summer at te CNE |
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| Jennifer Kitty |
1997 |
West |
Rides |
| How I started to work for conklin shows was through a friend, I originally worked with butler amusements at the Calgary Stampede, and went on for a few spots after that, but kept going back to join up with Conklin through Big M shows. The experience working with them was nothing but awesome, tiring, but still awesome. The people I met and became friends with out there was something i would never replace in my life! To this day i still talk to acouple of people i met there. The famous football/bingo/arcade parties where a blast.I had nothing but a blast while i workin with them even if it was through another show. |
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| Jennifer Lilley |
3 and a bit |
West |
Freak Show/occassional crazy pretzel lady |
| some of you may remember me as'Morgana Hemlock' my first year out as partner on the freak museum, later to be known as 'freakgirl'. I have to say those where the best times of my life, and where I made some forever lasting friendships. I ultimately have to thank Skot for finding me and leading the way to an unforgettable period of my life. Through these pages I have found lost friends Percy and Trent, and hope anyone else lost, will find me here. I was a pretzel lady in West Palm a few times- thank you Mary & John! others I'll never forget- Yankee & Roger, Jackie & Nick, Dave & Monica, Al Rankin (neighbour!), too many names to mention from rides, games and food (you know who you are!), and mostly Tim Wall, who is the most solid person I know! This environment became family- I've never been as close with people out there anywhere else. Unless you live it you never know! I was fortunate enough my last year out to meet the love of my
life! My daughter Tahirah also has many memories, and never felt safer or more cared about in the company of 'strangers' thanks for keeping an eye on her!... |
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| Jennifer Lord |
3 months in 2001 |
South |
Ticket taker - Snowball Express |
| I joined Conklin Shows in Columbia, SC in October of 2001 and stayed through 3 spots. I miss everyone very much and plan on coming back real soon. So you be on the watch for me, Joe and Fred! I met some of the most incredible people while I was with Conklin. |
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| Jesi Savage |
1996-whenever |
West / South |
Kiddieland / Drivin' the Grav! |
| I've been working for conklin on and off for a few years now and I think it's the best job in the world, I met my bf of 6 months on the show this year, we will be in brandon, for the start of the canada run for sure. Gonna work every year for as long as they will let me. |
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| Jesse Sichkaryk |
2 |
West, south |
Games Agent |
| I got the job at the machine guns from my cousin Steve who had been working with the show for about 7 years. I loved the job from the moment I started, it finally gave me a chance to get out and see the world, or maybe just a little. |
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| Jessica Bowen Gibson |
5 years |
West |
lil of everything |
| Well I started at a young age when I first came out! I worked with a wonderful Boss Cynthia King in Candyland,If you know me then You would know about the stick stuck through the hand inccident!And you would know that I am about the clumsiest person you will ever meet! I had a Blast out on the road and I have met a lot of wonderful people.The time that I have spent out there I wouldn't change for the world! I have seen a lot of people come and go but I still keep them close to my heart! Luv you all and hope that you guys are doing well! Luv Jess A.K.A Gibbi |
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| Jessica Taljaard |
2003 |
West |
Candyland |
| I am from South-Africa and I worked at Conklin Shows 2003. I had fun and enjoyed it a lot. I do miss that so much! Even though it was hard work, I still enjoyed it a lot. |
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| jim temchuk |
74-2005 |
West |
ride ope4rator @ ride supervisor for don bertrand |
| i rember when i was working for jum caskey in his worm when mr.conklin came up to me and asked if i had a conklin jaket as i was wearing my own and i said ni.he then went away and came back and gave me one free .working for jim gave me alot of oppertunities to learn more rides and how they worked if it was,nt for him i never would of worked for donny bertrand and had the oppertunite to become a ride supervosor .so thank you for the oppertunite to lean jim . |
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| Jimmy (DFA) Davis |
14 years |
West / south |
Games |
| The best years of my life!! Wish I had them back!Long hours late nights.Wake up and do it again and again and again then tear-down set-up and do it again for 6 months then sleep for a week!It was my family for 14 years miss all my friends,have lots of pictures and videos. It would be great to talk to you all - HEY WERE OPEN.....WHO'S NEXT! |
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| Jimmy Switchblade |
LOL Quite a Few |
West |
Ride Operator |
| Through all of my years Working for WFS Trillium, I have managed to retain My Artist Roots, when working Whatever ride they had me work Inspiration Flowed so much... Now I am A professional Working artist with a Portfolio Filled with Carnival Inspired Creations and a Few High level Sales... and Thinking about going back for another year... everyone I worked with... everything I worked with all very important to this day to me... without a doubt in my mind I would not be here today if Barry didn't pick me up in widsor and let me work for the year to see how much I would love it... To everyone I worked with Thank you for Kickin my Ass all the time to get me to do the job right LOL... and thank you Barry For Having the Fucking Show LOLAnd to everyone I havent worked with Remeber that you more than Likely Inspired your Fair share of People along your Trips as well... Still Down With CONKOJimmy Switchblade |
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| Joanne Johnson |
1997-98 |
Miami - Mobile |
kiddie rides, uniform office with Yankee, Fazackerly concessions,Candyland |
| After we left the show we (Joe and I) settled down, got married and started our nine to five lifestyle. I wouldn't trade my time on the road for anything but it wasn't always easy. Tough times for not the highest wages but man, what a life lesson that no one ever could have taught me any other way. I especially remember the really bad green help along the way(and I guess the really good ones a little too). I remember being the only white person in certain areas and neighbourhoods and that was a shock from my little town in Alberta! I finally knew what it felt like to be the odd person out. I remember blowing all my money in draws to party and then living off of Coke cup 75cent hotdogs until payday! The football game in Edmonton between the Jointees and The Ride Jocks! Whew! Good times! |
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| Joanne Johnson |
1997-1998 |
West, south |
Rides (Bertrand) ; concessions |
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| Joe Bob Edgerton |
1982/ 1992 |
West |
Ride's |
| To whom ever Reads this I came From a small show out in washington state & when I came to work for the Clown I knew I made the Big time because Conklin Shows was the Biggest & the BEST in all of North America & To this Day I Still have fond Memories of my Life on the Show & Everybody out there Especially the other half of the Hippie & Joe Show who I still Talk to at least once or twice a week & now he's out on the Road with James Drew Shows!! Hell I even Remember the "Minutes Jump" from Edmonton to Regina ( Back when it was literaly minutes ) & when just about every Ride made opening That Monday at Noon & Going to Grizzes Birthday Party in Edmonton !! Man those were Great times !!!!! & There were some pretty crazy times Like "BLACK MONDAYS" On the Last Day of the C.N.E.!! I'll always Remember the good times & the Bad & the Bad times & I'll always wonder whats happening with all my BROTHERS & SISTERS from Conklin Shows ? Because
when I left Conklin I left the Show business !!!!!! Because at Conklin Shows we were SHOWMAN & All shows we were just CARNYS !!! Thanks Frank for takin a chance on a long Haired Kid from the "Left Coast" I'LL NEVER FORGET CONKLIN SHOWS!! |
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| Joe Thompson |
1996-98 |
Winter Quarters - Mobile |
Foreman - Conklin Kiddie Rides |
| I got a good job, good money. Bought a house and a couple of cars. Joanne and I got married and had a second child. We miss the road and think about our experiences out there, but it was time to grow up and move on. What a life lesson! |
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| Joe Thompson |
1996-1998 |
West, south |
Kiddieland |
|
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| Joey Rombough |
1986-1995 |
Canadian |
Giant Wheel BAby!!! |
| Joey loved to work on the Giant Wheel.. unfortuantley on May 19/2002 Joey passed away... he made many lifelong friends on the circuit and had many great stories to tell us all... Thanks to all of those who expressed their sympathy this past summer.. |
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| John Dodge |
1 1/2 |
West |
varied |
| I was left with many good memmories and I appreciated the help of John Doolin, he helped me move along into buying my own rides, I start my unit in 2008, I have already purchased 3 rides , 3 games and 1 concession trailer. I have booked 4 spots. |
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| John "John John" Houghton |
30 years |
West |
rides/management |
| I went out with my dad "Jack Houghton" for a few years, then I was called john john and the name has been with me forever. I worked for bernard amusements, conklin bought out left for year and came back. Started working back on bernard unit, gonna leave and,they gave me management for rides,and stayed. I have owned my own equipment, and at the same time ran a division of the western road show as part of management. Until they sold the show and no independents needed and now a part of the other world. I will never forget the people I met and the people that think they know me that is cool because I have met so many that I would only remember some of them. If vanessa is out there @ big M from alberta contact me please!!!! |
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| John Krist (Johnboy ) |
75-82 |
West |
Ride op |
| As a kid on my own i worked Tom Faltash owner of two rides and enjoyed every minute of the the 5 years i worked fom him . Working as a carny and doing all the travelling and working with the the other carnies was a thrill of a life time. One big crazy happy family. I would do it all again , but the body is not what it use to be. If ya remember me - give me a shout. Brad Faltash was my road boss , as Tom didnt spend much time on the road with us. Anyone who had the pleasure of traveling with the show knows that was the life as a youngster. |
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| John Perry |
6 years |
West / East |
Rides |
| Working with Conklin and Worlds Finest Show is a big responsibility but you can meet lot of different people and learn lots about the carnival |
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| JOSEPH "cubby" DELORME |
1989-1997 |
West and South |
Ride Tech |
| I worked for Conklin Shows since I was 18 and had the greatest time in the world. Met so many interesting people. I can't say enough about the carny life and what it has done for me. |
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| Joshua Zack |
2 |
West |
Candy Castle, Smoothies |
| The best thing about working with conklin shows is that you got to meet alot of great people, and the staff partys. |
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| Julie Helmick |
1 whole summer on and off |
Canada and other |
Independant ride owner |
| My parents were ride owners and I was only twelve at the time but my whole fammily traveled from show to show. I grew up a carnie, I loved the life. It was the most memorable time of my life. We eventually sold all of our rides but it was a time I will never forget. |
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| Julie Van Vuuren |
3 |
Canada / USA |
Candyland Palace |
| I started working for Conklin shows in 2003. Luckily that was the same year the South Africans started working for Conklin. At the end of the West Palm Beach spot I met the greatest man I've ever known. We became best friends right away and two years later the man of my dreams asked me to marry him. It was, if I do say so myself, one of the best weddings I have ever been to. We were married just after the show closed for the night just before halloween. Which also happened to be the night of a lunar eclipse. Everyone was invited, and I'm pretty sure there were people there we have never seen before. (See what happens when you mention free beer and food to carnies!!!!) It wasn't your typical wedding either.(God knows were not typical people) We all dressed in, what else, halloween fashion, it was either the best halloween party or the weirdest wedding ever, either way it was great and I found the love of my life. We have so many memories of all the crazy things that we have done, and all the crazy people we have met.(Some seriously crazy!!He He.) I am so thankful to Conklin Shows, because without them I would never have met Ockert. |
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| Justin |
2006 |
West |
curly fries |
| i work with conko's curly fries for the summer with my uncal |
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| Justin Kimber |
4 |
West |
ride-foreman |
| I was part of the first ten south africans to join with the show.I started working on the g-force and now I move the wave swinger. Conklin shows is where i live, the last four years have been great. There so many awesome people that i have come to know and love as my own family.Roger "BIG DADDY" Thompson thanx for showing me the way and always being there, you have tought me so much not just about the show but about life.Al "SUPERMAN" Rankin what more can I say about AL than he's Al-anyone that knows him will know what I am talking about Al...!Cynthia and Danny two great people thanx for all the memories.Steve and Susie truax miss u guys.John A,Mike and Gennie, Tyler, Kerry, Miss Pat, Kate, Tim Wall, John Gallant, John Copping, Mark Ethel, Quinton, Doc, Chucky'phonebooth' Claridge one of the funniest guys i have ever met in my life thanx for all the laughs. Haley Nixon-glad things are going good in calgary hope they get better. Thanx for all the
great times we spent together i will never forget you!!to the last four years and the people that filled them with good times THANK YOU! RESPECT |
