Wednesday, August 23, 2023 Vol. 46, No. 34
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Celebrating 50 years of Bruce Ag Society Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
The streets were lined with vehicles in the hamlet of Bruce on Friday, Aug. 18 as people came out to celebrate the Bruce Ag Society’s 50th anniversary at the Bruce Curling Rink. Over 210 people were in attendance to enjoy the free meal of burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, beans, salads, and cupcakes. The event was held in conjunction with Beaver County’s tribute to agriculture and the producers who contribute to the social and economic growth of the region. “All our meat and all our food was purchased here in the county of Beaver. All burgers and hotdogs came from Tofield Packers,” said Bruce Ag Society’s Vice President, Jordan Schmaus. President Kary Dewart said although the Ag Society officially turned 50 last year, they couldn’t have the celebration supper at that time due to COVID. “We’re 51 now, so we’re a year late,” he said. There were silent auction items to bid on, as well as a draw for door prize baskets filled with goodies from different businesses within Beaver County. Schmaus said that the funds from the silent auction would go towards the leaks in the curling rink roof, as had been noted by those in attendance. Deputy Reeve of Beaver County and Chairman of the Ag Services Board Gene Hrabec, who represents Division 3 in the county, congratulated the Ag Society on their accomplishments. “The Ag Society here looks after the curling rink, they've taken over the school and repurposed it, the playground and other events within the community. I'd like to congratulate Bruce Ag Society and especially the volunteers over the number of years, past and present. It's amazing to see some of the original members here
tonight, as well as those who are current, and some of the juniors.” Hrabec also commented on the great turnout the event saw. “Apparently, free food, some cheap booze, and a little bit of rain gets a pretty good crowd out,” he said. Hrabec also read a letter from Damien Kurek, the area’s member of parliament, who could not attend the event due to a previous commitment. “From farm to table, farmers and ranchers ensure families have what we need to sustain us. Your contributions and your dedication to your community, your province, and your country are truly appreciated,” Kurek wrote. Invited to speak at the event was Linda Hunt, Director of AgKnow, an Alberta farm mental health network, who lives in Beaver County. “The difference is our AgKnow program is really farmer focused. We don't want to just talk about mental health, we want to actually impact mental health,” Hunt said. Hunt also talked about the difference in the culture of farming and farmers across the province, and across the country. President of the Bruce Stampede Association, Robbie Chomik, also gave a congratulations to the Ag Society. “I think we work together as great partners, and for a small community, a lot of (things) gets done around here,” he said. Cynthia Roulston, Secretary Treasurer of the Ag Society, and her husband Rob closed the evening with a thank you to the crowd. “It’s a great appreciation to see what kind of community support we have in this area. Without all of you, there isn't us. And I'd like to say that it's been an honour being underneath some of these older generations to try to guide us, and I hope in the future we can guide all the younger ones coming up. To keep this place going, community spirit alive, and everybody working
Over 210 people were in attendance to celebrate the Bruce Ag Society's 50th anniversary on Friday, Aug. 18 at the Bruce Curling Rink. KARI JANZEN PHOTOS
together. Thank you,” said Rob Roulston. Two members who have been with the Bruce Ag Society from the beginning, Edna Stefanik and Paulette Erickson, were also recognized. Beaver County Reeve Kevin Smook paid tribute to the agricultural community at the county meeting two days earlier as he couldn’t attend in person. Reeve Smook said, “Beaver County appreciates the hard work of our farmers and producers as they face the everyday challenges of feeding their community and the world. Our Agriculture industry is our base and greatly contributes to our overall economy. “In addition,” he said, “we appreciate the many volunteers who spend countless hours making our community a better place through their involvement with our agricultural societies and associations. Beaver County goodie bags were handed out to the crowd, consisting of a rain gauge, a koozie, and other smaller items.
Bruce Ag Society Secretary-Treasurer Cynthia Roulston speaks to the crowd in attendance.