The core values of hard work, determination and perseverance are at the foundation of what Haying in the 30's is all about.
Eight decades after the 1930's came and went, members of the local organization continue to exhibit those extraordinary values time and time again to make a difference in this community.
Members of Haying in the 30's gathered recently in Mallaig, with the dual purpose of showcasing the organization, while also raising significant funds to assist those suffering from cancer in this region.
At this year's event, an incredible $215,000 was raised, even though meals, admission and numerous attractions were all free of charge to members of the public.
All of the money raised during the special weekend came as a direct result of generous donations by local businesses and members of the public.
Once again, the people of the Bonnyville-St. Paul area — and numerous small towns and villages in between — dug deep into their pockets to support an extremely worthwhile cause.
“We had a real fantastic weekend. The weather co-operated. Good attendance and no accidents. All in all it went very well. The turnout was fantastic,” said Haying in the 30's founder Edgar Corbiere.
As Corbiere and society vice president Norm Theroux correctly stated, Haying in the 30's would not continue to survive and thrive without the support of the general public, who go out of their way to support the organization and attend events like the one in Mallaig.
Hundreds of volunteers are also to be commended for helping out during the weekend. Some pounded nails, others cut grass or flipped burgers. All of them played their part in ensuring the annual event raised significant dollars.
The biggest winners of all are local cancer patients, who, like farmers back in the 1930's, know all about determination and perseverance as they fight so hard to beat the dreaded disease.
Corbiere insists Haying in the 30's is going to be around for many years to come, which is great news for everyone in this community.
“We're still carrying on. We're not about to let go,” he said proudly.
Rural communities like Bonnyville were built on the hard work and sweat equity of farmers so many decades ago and it's wonderful to see organizations like Haying in the 30's pay tribute to those founding fathers.
The fact the organization helps raise a great deal of money for local cancer patients is certainly a wonderful bonus.
Here's hoping for many more wonderful years and continued support for Haying in the 30's for many decades to come.
Congratulations on a job well done.
