By: David Deschesne

Fort Fairfield Journal, August 10, 2013

“Roger believes it is very important for Aroostook County to maintain the tradition of the agricultural fair in this region and has worked very hard to ensure that continues. A part of that tradition that is mostly gone from Fairs in Maine is our landmark wooden grandstand,” said Northern Maine Fair President, Carol Bell. “We have one of the few of the last wooden grandstands that are this large, this old and in the condition that it's in. Roger has dedicated a great deal of time, energy and tender loving care so this grandstand would be maintained for all to enjoy.”

The grandstand was built in the summer of 1949, after the previous wooden grandstand burned to the ground. Under Roger's watch, the wooden grandstand received new vinyl and metal siding on its outer walls and a new crow's nest for the racing announcer and electronics associated with harness racing at the track. As always, the wooden portions of the structure are continually being replaced, as needed, in order to ensure the safety of the structure. The grandstand is designed to hold around 2,400 people.

Roger remains actively involved with the Northern Maine Fair, overseeing the operation of the Fair's restaurant at the North end of the grandstand, as well as the Fair's Bingo tent on the midway.