Scooter Korek marks 50 years working the KDays midway: ‘Love every minute of it’

Gregg “Scooter” Korek is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating his 50th straight summer working the KDays midway in Edmonton. Korek, who serves as the vice-president of client services for North American Midway Entertainment, spends more than eight months a year on the road overseeing midways and fairs across North America.

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Every day I’m waking up and entertaining 100,000 people.

His journey in the carnival circuit began unexpectedly in 1977. Fresh out of school in Calgary, Korek took what he thought would be a temporary summer job at the Calgary Stampede. However, after joining the Stampede, he found himself working for the carnival, and the rest, as they say, is history.

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It’s been a great rollercoaster ride. I’ve been surrounded by so many great people.

Over five decades, Korek has remained with his entertainment company through various changes and mergers. He finds immense satisfaction in his work, describing it as a "great rollercoaster ride" filled with many wonderful people. KDays manager Melinda Quan, who has known Korek for 25 years, praised his passion and dedication, stating that he has significantly shaped the fair industry and provided memorable experiences for generations of Edmontonians.

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The mechanical rides have gotten so much better over the years.

Korek has witnessed the evolution of the industry, particularly noting the advancements in mechanical rides. He humorously mentioned that his favorite ride, the Wave Swinger, is also celebrating its 50th anniversary and is likely to outlast him. For now, Korek has no plans to leave the midway, expressing his love for his job each morning and stating he will continue as long as he enjoys it.

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I’m going to stick around until I don’t like it anymore. And guess what? I woke up this morning, I love every minute of it.