The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) has honored 81-year-old Barbara Jean Batten with a lifetime pass to the fair, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to the event since her birth. Batten has attended the CNE every year, with the exception of the Second World War and the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Family Tradition
Batten’s connection to the CNE runs deep, dating back to the 1930s when her father participated in music competitions at the fair. She fondly recalls how her mother brought her and her siblings in carriages, a tradition she continued with her own children. «We had to go to the parade because my grandpa and my uncle were in it — so that was a must,» Batten shared with reporters.
Generational Bonding
Her daughter, Lisa Carruthers, emphasized the importance of family time at the fair, despite the challenges of traveling from their home in Muskoka. «She always pressures us every year, and we live in Muskoka so it’s like, ‘Oh mom, we don’t want to go, it’s so nice out,’» Carruthers said. «But we come and we have so much fun every time, and we have to remind ourselves of that because it’s just about being with family.»
A Celebration of Life
Batten’s sister, Elaine Darwin, highlighted the significance of the CNE in their family’s life, stating, «A lot of people don’t even have the honour and privilege of living to 80, never mind coming down to the fair with all this craziness, right? So, that just shows you what her passion is and her dedication.»
Recognition from CNE
In recognition of Batten’s decades of dedication, CNE CEO Mark Holland remarked, «There’s something behind those 81 years that is more than just the experience of coming to the Ex. It’s all of those moments of connection with her family and all of the different adversity that they’ve faced and things that they’ve gone through.»
Creating Lasting Memories
Batten also shared poignant memories of visiting the fair with her sister Donna, who had a critical illness and wished to experience the CNE one last time. Darwin reflected on the importance of cherishing memories, stating, «Memories are starting to become everything right now, you know? Pictures, memories… She’s aging, we’re all aging. So, you have to treasure that and treasure memories. It keeps you smiling inside.»
Future Golden Tickets
Looking ahead, Holland announced that the CNE plans to distribute more golden tickets in the coming years, continuing the tradition of recognizing dedicated attendees.
Deja una respuesta