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Money flooding in for Ponoka farm facility

Alberta’s agricultural industry is much closer to having a new building in Ponoka for hosting shows, sales and events.

Alberta’s agricultural industry is much closer to having a new building in Ponoka for hosting shows, sales and events.

Dennis Jones, branch manager for Ponoka, recently presented a $10,000 cheque to Ponoka Ag-Event Centre fundraising chair Sherry Gummow.

“Facilities that are available, suitable and affordable are in great demand from both the equine and cattle industries and we are thankful for Servus Credit Union’s support,” said Gummow.

Gummow said the centre is nearly halfway to its goal of $8.5 million and just starting on its local corporate support campaign. The society has also acquired a major provincial grant, which will be announced soon, Gummow said.

Rob Stryker, a vice-president with the credit union, said the project will bring people from all over Western Canada to the region and by doing so, will support local businesses.

The Ponoka Ag-Event Centre Society hopes to break ground before the end of this year.

The project is a joint venture of the Town of Ponoka, Ponoka County, Ponoka Stampede Association and the Ponoka Agricultural Society.

Gummow said she hopes the project will be tendered out in the next 60 to 90 days.

A 2008 study prepared for the society identified a significant gap between existing agricultural event facilities available in Alberta and what is needed.