ATB’s Outlaw Roundup is setting records again this year with $29,000 for Ponoka’s Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) programming.
Held Wednesday, June 29 at its new location of the Ponoka Legion, the so-called outlaws went above and beyond to raise money for the program. As people lined out the door for the pancake breakfast, a running commentary and “arrest” of these outlaws helped garner attention and donation for the program.
For branch manager Roy Scabar, this was an exciting year that saw a total of $167,000 raised for community programs in the last eight years. The turnout was strong. “We fed just over 1,300 people,” he said.
He praised the outlaws for such a strong showing.
“It gives me goosebumps actually and it couldn’t have come to a better cause,” said Scabar.
It was so busy that the branch closed for the morning with staff all hands on deck once the breakfast was done. Scabar said all staff feel it is important to support this Outlaw Roundup and they ensured the breakfast ran smoothly. “I think that’s a worthy cause.”
He praised master of ceremonies Scott MacGregor and the Legion for hosting the event as well as the many volunteers. “I’m just really proud of the team and what they were able to accomplish this year.”
For Beith Reitz, executive director of BBBS, the money is going to provide some sustainability to the group in these tough economic times. “We weren’t expecting it to break other years,” she said.
“What it will do is just help us to mentor kids in the next year.”