Harold Payne trained
horses before he got into the monkey business. He admits
that training a monkey is not any easier than training
horses, but it has its rewards. "Being with the
monkeys is what I enjoy," said Harold.
All of Paynes' monkeys are capuchins, reported to be the smartest species in the monkey family. Two years ago, a new friend came onto the scene -- April. Fonzie and Gismo came from a monkey breeder. April came from a pet store. Capuchin monkeys normally cost $4,000 for a female and $3,500 for a male. They are expected to live 35-40 years. Paynes also reported that they do have monkey insurance. Fonzie (male), Gismo (female), April (female), Harold, and Lorene travel with the Tip-Top Carnival five months of the year. They spend the winter months on their farm in Missouri. There, the monkeys are allowed enough freedom to run about, but not so much that they are endangered by stray dogs. Harold added that he is protective of the monkeys during the performances, too. All three monkeys are fed monkey chow once a day and given snacks (fruit, corn-on-the-cob, and their favorite -- bread and butter) throughout the day. When a monkey catches a cold, it is given a piece of onion. That seems to cure them. "The monkeys take the piece of onion and rub it on their hands, legs, and down their backs," said Harold. "Each monkey has its own personality, too." Apparently, a lot of personality. Fonzie was seen at the fair. Gismo works Saturday night dances, charming children and adults alike with her smiles and antics. Together, the monkey trio provides companionship to the Paynes and joy to their fans.
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