For more than 100 years, the Ponoka Agricultural Society (PAS) has kept the spirit of agriculture alive in the town and county of Ponoka.
Started in the early 1900s, the society’s biggest strength has been its support of everything agriculture. While the association remains strong in the community, the development of the Calnash Ag Event Centre recently has further invigorated its membership.
Indeed since PAS operates the centre, it is now as busy as many of the larger ag societies in Alberta, explains president Linc Drynan. And now it’s, “stronger than it ever has been. The ag society has always been strong in Ponoka.”
The centre’s activities takes on a life of its own and the need for volunteers has grown, but the PAS membership is there to answer the call and support the society in its endeavours.
With top-notch events hosted at the Calnash Ag Event Centre such as the Black Elk Cutting Classic — this year it’s going to be five days long — plus numerous ranch rodeos, barrel racing and other events, the centre is a premier events centre in the province.
There’s one interesting point about the centre — “It’s a major economic driver for Ponoka,” says Drynan.
Since the centre was developed, in partnership with the Ponoka Stampede Association, Ponoka County and the Town of Ponoka, there has been movement on the south end of town.
The south side of Ponoka features several new businesses and services.
That being said, the society remains strong to its roots. The Home, Hobby and Horticulture Show (formerly the Bench Show) continues to be a big draw for area residents with hundreds of submissions to the different categories. From fruit and vegetable presentations, along with photo and art and past farm tools, Drynan says the show is a staple in Ponoka.
“For us, that’s the roots of PAS,” stated Drynan proudly.
“It’s something the board feels is absolutely necessary for the community. That’s what started it over 100 years ago,” he explained.
The board is forward thinking but remains committed to what brought it to what it is today, he added.
PAS’s mission? To promote, support and encourage agricultural opportunities in the town and county.
Other milestones
In 1921, the society’s summer fair became so big it hosted two days with more than 1,200 entries and livestock brought in for judging. There were samples of baked goods, food, flowers and veggies, along with sewing, carpentry and carving.
But that wasn’t enough for the society, which also held dances and games.
By the 1930s, rodeo and wagon racing were a big part of the society.
In 1957, PAS disbanded and then reformed in 1961. It was at this point the society was reinvigorated with a focus on community involvement.
In 1973, PAS became a certified society, which meant it was eligible for provincial grants.
As for the future, Drynan feels it is bright for the society. With an ag events centre that’s now booking into 2019, things don’t look like they’re slowing down for PAS.
With files and photos from Mike Rainone/Ponoka News Reflections
