The who’s who of Manitoba’s agricultural sector sat down to dinner last week in an effort to raise funds for an endowed scholarship fund supporting future agriculturalists.
The Harvest Gala Banquet brought together inductees into the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame, the Red River Ex’s Manitoba Farm Family of the Year Award recipients and industry leaders last week as part of Manitoba’s Homecoming Celebrations.
“It seemed only natural we should also celebrate agriculture – the most important industry in our province – and some of the many folks who contributed mightily to its success,” said Bob Roehle, who serves as president for both organizations.
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The Hall of Fame has issued 147 plaques to 155 individuals since it started in 1976, while the Red River Ex has honoured 45 farm families since 1966.
Proceeds from the $100-per-plate dinner were dedicated to establishing an endowed scholarship fund that would offer annual support to students studying agriculture.
Organizers reached their initial $20,000 target thanks to a provincial government donation of $2,500 and $1,000 from Red River Co-op as well as sponsorships from a long list of agriculture-related businesses and farm organizations in the province.
Anyone wishing to make a tax deductible donation towards the fund, which will be managed by the Red River Exhibition Foundation Inc., can send their pledge or cheque to the Exhibition offices at 3977 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, R3K 2E8.
