Without volunteers and sponsors, the Ponoka Agricultural Society couldn’t do what they do.
And that’s the reason behind the society’s annual appreciation dinner, held this year Nov. 26 at the Kinsmen Community Centre, attracting around 50 people for a catered dinner and some recognition.
Among those that were called to the podium to accept some words of praise and long-term service certificates were Marion Carter and Ken Pohl (five years), Janet Hatala (10 years) and Cec Dykstra (15 years).
There was one more — Kathleen McKelvie, who was honoured for her 20 years of being a part of the Ponoka Ag Society activities. She has been a big part of the annual agricultural fair hosted in the fall, but would rather have remained in the background.
“I started out because I felt that if one was able to help, they should,” she said, noting it helped that her kids were involved back then.
“I think it’s important that everyone knows where their food comes from and helping keep the agricultural fair going shows how important it should be to the community and especially our youth.”
McKelvie added that, while the entries at the fair now are over a wide variety of categories, it’s been great seeing the number of young people getting involved.
“The fair is a great thing for the entire community. It shows how great all agriculture is and how we need it,” she said.
The dinner, and the ag society as a whole, wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and commitment of the volunteers and the various sponsors the group has, especially Ponoka Family and Community Support Services — whose Canada 150 Volunteer and Youth grant partially paid for the event.
