The Pelican Lake Aricultural Society held a Ag fundraising social on April 6, in support of the upcoming Ninette Fair.
According to spokesperson Bryan Podworny; “It was a huge success,” with the fundraiser exceeding all expectations on every level. The support from businesses and individuals from not only Ninette, but also from Brandon and many other surrounding areas made this fundraiser a night to remember. A huge number of auction items, excellent music, fun and frivolity came together to make it unforgettable.
The fundraiser social evening was just a warm up for what we can look forward to on June 14 and 15, the dates set for the 2024 Ninette Fair.
Over the years, small town Fairs have slowly disappeared, as populations age and shrink, causing the number of volunteers available to put on these Fairs to dwindle . Groups are generally comprised of the same people year after year, and when they move away or age out, there is no one to take their place.
Th e Pelican Lake Agricultural Society (PLAS) is feeling an infusion of new members. Bryan Podworny and his family are relatively new to the Ninette area, and they have hit the ground running, building their lives and becoming an integral part in the new area they call home.
It didn’t take Bryan long to realize what a golden event the Ninette Fair was, as well as its importance to the community – he also knew he wanted to be a part of it.
When speaking with Bryan about the upcoming Fair, he shared he is “Super excited,” going on to say “there are big things coming to this small town Fair.”
There are currently four individuals on the PLAS Executive Board, three members on the regular Board and a growing number of volunteers stepping up to help. Bryan admitted he was disheartened when he was told that there were genuine concerns as to whether the Fair would continue on or if it was coming to a point where it could possibly be dissolved.
Bryan knew he didn’t want Ninette and the surrounding areas to lose their annual Ninette Fair – something that has been part of their history for so many years.
Jumping in with both feet, Bryan became involved. He spent a lot of time looking into the history of past Ninette Fairs, learning as much as he could about what had been done. During his research Byran admitted he learned that the “Ninette Fair was fantastic”.
The PLAS Board is a strong team that has attracted a growing number of volunteers that will guarantee a better than ever 2024 Ninette Fair. Bryan went on to say that the PLAS Board is taking the Fair back to a two day event. Friday has been designated as Family Night with many activities that will appeal to all ages.
Bringing back historical events and games, family friendly movies, hay rides touring Ninette, live music, food and beverages – all the bases will be covered.
Saturday will start with a pancake breakfast – be there and make sure you fuel up because it will be a full day of major fun. A return of gymkhana, a parade through town, car show, bike parade, car boot sale, farmers market, and more live entertainment (six different acts are currently signed up).
According to Bryan, this year’s exhibits will be hosted in the Ninette Hall. Old school crafts will be highlighted for this event, so many outstanding pieces of hand made items are expected.
