LAC LA BICHE - The hard work of regional producers will be celebrated once again at Agriculture Appreciation Day, which takes place June 27 at the Bold Center.
The event is hosted by Lac La Biche County. Jacob Marfo, is the municipality’s agricultural fieldman and is one of the organizers. He says because farmers do so much for local communities and face numerous challenges in their day-to-day labours – whether dry conditions or volatile commodity markets — it was imperative that a special day be designated to recognize their endeavours.
“As a rule, our producers are generally very busy, and this is one of the few days during the year when they can get a break, if only even for a couple of hours,” he said, adding that increased public awareness about the difficulties faced by farmers is crucial.
This will be the second year the municipality has hosted the day, which features a meal, special guest, raffles and presentations.
More than 300 people made their way to the Bold Centre for the 2022 Agricultural Appreciation Day, and Marfo is anticipating a great turnout again this year. There will be an abundance of entertainment on tap, including music provided by local bands.
Additionally, those who attend this special evening will have the opportunity to listen to presentations and view agriculture-related exhibits from groups such as the Lakeland Agricultural Research Association (LARA) and the Lac La Biche District 4-H Club, as well as local producers themselves.
“We hope to see everyone come out and enjoy this very fun event,” Marfo said. “Not only is Agriculture Appreciation Day a fantastic way to show how grateful we are to our producers, but it is also a way of supporting local talent and the economy.”
Personal connection
Last year’s event also raised funds for relief efforts in Ukraine and the Canadian Red Cross. Another fundraiser held at last year’s event had a more personal connection to Marfo.
Several thousand dollars were raised and donated to his Lac La Biche family as they dealt with a serious medical issue that eventually claimed the life of his toddler-aged son, Ezra. In Ezra’s memory the Ezra Marfo Cancer Foundation was created as a nonprofit organization that raises money and puts on events for children in hospital with cancer.
“While there will be no major fundraiser this year, we will be handing out thank you cards to show our gratification for all the community has done for us,” Marfo explained. “If they so choose, people can donate to the County, who will then allot the money to local charities.”
There are still tickets available for this year’s Agriculture Appreciation Day event. Admission is free.
