BC Fairs Member Leaves A Legacy

In January 1990 I began a temporary administrative job with Abbotsford Agrifair while they recruited someone for the position. I didn’t leave until August 2015. During that time, not only did my job go from temporary to permanent, but it went from part time to full time. I briefly left Agrifair in March 2006 and went to Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition Association but in August I was invited to go back to Agrifair as General Manager and by November I returned. In 1996 I attended my first BC Fairs conference held in Pt. Alberni. I don’t remember the sessions at all. What I do remember is the fun night – a harbor cruise in the dark where we couldn’t see a thing and an evening in someone’s room having a beach party while Jack Jackson sat on a chair in the hallway and sang. I’ve attended every BC Fairs conference since then except for the 2020 and 2001 which were cancelled due to Covid. Attending the conferences has given me the opportunity to see new places, meet new people and make new friends but most importantly learn as much as possible to do my job for 25 years. I was fortunate to also attend CAFÉ and IAFE conferences but BC Fairs were by far my favorite. Working in the non-profit world – both for a fair as paid staff and for BC Fairs as a volunteer director – was not my life plan. It evolved naturally. And now with no regrets I look back on all I experienced and all I accomplished because of fairs with pride and joy. I have never enjoyed being in the spotlight and avoided it if at all possible. So in October 2004 at the annual BC Fairs conference in Abbotsford when I was approached to let my name stand for director, I firmly said ‘no thank you’. After much discussion and persuasive argument from a few who believed in me, I very reluctantly said yes. That was back when BC Fairs Annual General Meeting and elections were held during the conference. My ‘team’ even had an election campaign over the 36 hours. I wrote a speech because I absolutely couldn’t wing it. I delivered it at the AGM Saturday morning with a tremor in my voice, rattling paper in my hands and knocking knees. And I was successfully elected to the BC Fairs Board of Directors. The first couple years was definitely a learning experience – how to be a director and how BC Fairs operated. As I gained knowledge, I also gained confidence which enabled me to engage in discussions and begin making suggestions. Over the past 20 years I’ve enjoyed being on a variety of committees – awards, conference, silent auction, marketing and sponsorship – as a committee member and some as committee chair. There’s a lot to do as a director of BC Fairs and our Executive Director appreciates all the active participation and support we can provide. I was also privileged to be part of our fair evaluation program. Even though BC Fairs no longer tours the province evaluating our member fairs – which is unfortunate – I encourage you to visit your neighbor fair. The experience will greatly benefit your own fair planning. Get to know the fair organizers, exchange ideas, share equipment. There’s so many ways to help each other. I have also had the honor of serving on the executive committee as secretary, first and second vice president and treasurer. I’ve always refused the president’s position. As in any organization, for profit or not, the team is made up of a variety of people, each bringing their ideas, experience and goals to the mix. This is what makes the job – and life – interesting. I am now at a point in my life where I have different goals and priorities. My husband Jim (of 46 years) has retired and our daughter Lisa and her family – husband AJ and two children Ben and Ellie – have moved to Prince George. We ourselves moved to Sechelt in 2022 but have constantly been on the move in our RV the last two years. We are healthy and happy and want to make the most of our retirement years. I feel it is time to say ‘fair-well’ to the fair community and definitely make way for someone new to step onto the board. You may have reservations, but if I can step out of my comfort zone and act as a director for 20 years, I know you can too. I strongly encourage you to get on board!! You have so much to gain in return for all you can offer. My final words – thank you to the fair community as a whole, for giving me 34 years of fun and laughter (which made up for the occasional trials and tears). Thank you to BC Fairs Board of Directors – each one of you over the past twenty years – for showing me what working together as a team could be. Thank you to our Executive Director Janine for so ably ‘herding the cats’, we most often were as directors. It has been a wonderful life – FAIRWELL!!!

In recognition of academic achievement and a profound understanding of the impact of wildfires on agriculture in British Columbia, Sunaina Sharma has been awarded the prestigious $2,000 BC Fairs scholarship. This scholarship, presented annually to a deserving student, highlights Sharma's exceptional dedication and insights into one of the province's most pressing issues. Sunaina Sharma, a proud resident of Abbotsford, is set to embark on her post-secondary journey at Simon Fraser University this fall, enrolling in the French Cohort program. Her fascination with the intersection of wildfires and agriculture stemmed from her personal experiences witnessing the smoke drift over Abbotsford and the widespread media coverage that ensued. This prompted her to delve deeper into the topic, realising its significance for the community and the agricultural sector. Her scholarship application essay eloquently explored both the adverse and unexpected positive effects of wildfires on agriculture in British Columbia. Sunaina's research revealed a nuanced understanding, highlighting the many challenges to the agriculture industry while explaining the benefits like how the nutrient-rich ashes from wildfires can foster new growth and rejuvenate soil quality, which benefits productivity. Reflecting on her findings, Sunaina remarked, "I was surprised to learn about the benefits that wildfires can bring to soil. It challenged my initial perceptions and broadened my perspective on environmental dynamics." Beyond her academic pursuits, Sunaina Sharma exemplifies a commitment to continuous learning and community engagement. Her passions include tutoring in French, contributing as employee of a local business, and volunteering at various community events, all while nurturing her love for gardening—a testament to her multifaceted interests and proactive approach to making a positive impact. The selection process for the BC Fairs scholarship involved a thorough review by the board of directors, who were impressed by Sunaina's comprehensive analysis, passion for learning, and dedication to understanding the complexities of agriculture in British Columbia amidst environmental challenges. Sunaina's receipt of the $2,000 scholarship not only recognizes her academic excellence but also celebrates her as a promising leader who is poised to make meaningful contributions to her community and beyond. Her journey embodies the spirit of inquiry, resilience, and commitment to sustainability that defines the ethos of BC Fairs and its dedication to supporting the next generation of leaders in agriculture. Congratulations to Sunaina Sharma on this well-deserved achievement, and best wishes for her future endeavours at Simon Fraser University and beyond.

Allison Bowers always felt a need to give back. Whether it was through her local fair or contributing as a board member to BC Fairs. Through her experience she contributed to the development of organisations like ours. It is with regret that we announce Allison Bowers, long time BC Fairs member, passed away suddenly on December 12. For everyone who worked with Allison, you can appreciate what a loss this is to our industry. She will be missed. On behalf of the BC Fairs family, our thoughts are with those who were close with Allison, especially family. We are sorry for your loss and hope you have some comfort knowing she has left a legacy of support for BC Fairs and all our members across British Columbia.

Picture: Winner Connie Sparrow from Victoria in front of the amazing wine selection at her local BC Liquor Store

Prepare for an exhilarating adventure that celebrates the very heart of British Columbia – its agriculture! BC Fairs, in collaboration with Buy BC, a Ministry of Agriculture and Food initiative, proudly announces the launch of the BC Fairs Scavenger Hunt. This immersive contest invites participants to embark on a journey that uncovers the richness of local agriculture while offering a chance to win $500. With British Columbia's diverse agricultural landscape as its backdrop, the BC Fairs Scavenger Hunt aims to highlight the dedication and hard work of local farmers, growers, and producers who contribute to the province's culinary tapestry. The contest not only engages participants in a series of fun and educational challenges but also serves as a platform to promote and support homegrown agriculture. Tom Harter, President of BC Fairs, expresses his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "The BC Fairs Scavenger Hunt brings together our commitment to community events and our shared passion for supporting local agriculture. It's more than just a contest – it's an opportunity for participants to connect with the land and the people who bring food to our tables." This partnership between BC Fairs and Buy BC, a program dedicated to showcasing the quality and diversity of BC-produced foods and beverages, amplifies the reach of local agriculture. By integrating member events listed on the BC Fairs website and app into the Scavenger Hunt challenges, participants are encouraged to explore local markets, fairs, and farms, fostering a deeper connection to the producers and their communities. Minister of Agriculture and Food, Pam Alexis added “British Columbia’s agriculture community is rich and diverse and this contest encourages people to celebrate the wide variety of food produced and grown in our province. By exploring and connecting with local producers, participants can win great prizes, enjoy more of the flavours our province offers, and support the people putting fresh and local food on our plates and tables.” The BC Fairs Scavenger Hunt encourages both seasoned adventurers and newcomers to explore the province's agricultural treasures. The contest encourages participants to discover the stories behind BC's farming culture, building a bridge between urban and rural communities. As participants complete challenges, they accumulate entries for a chance to win one of three $500 prizes. Beyond the prizes, the true reward lies in experiencing the genuine flavours, textures, and stories of British Columbia's agriculture. Join us in celebrating the bounty of British Columbia's agriculture with the BC Fairs Scavenger Hunt. Together, we're sowing the seeds of awareness, appreciation, and unity among our local communities. LEARN MORE BC Agriculture Scavenger Hunt | https://www.bcfairs.ca/Agriculture-Scavenger-Hunt BC Fairs, Exhibitions & Festivals | https://www.bcfairs.ca/ Buy BC | https://buybc.gov.bc.ca/

The Pacific National Exhibition has partnered with Chevrolet to bring a unique experience for fair attendees. The Chevrolet EV Discovery Area at the PNE , provides an opportunity to explore the world of electric vehicles, led by the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV . According to the press release, 'You can find an impressive amount of range on EV's of up to 515km on a full charge but recharging while you’re on the move is as easy as pulling in, plugging in, and charging up. With over 100,000 publicly available charging points in Canada and the U.S., charging options are available when you are on the go. From skipping the pumps, zero tailpipe emissions, freedom of the HOV lane, and local tax incentives, there’s a host of benefits to fitting electric into your lifestyle.' Always a leader in events, it's no surprise the PNE is embracing the electric vehicle future and bringing hands on experiences to the thousands who will attend. >> Learn about the benefits of EV's

Emma Dinn, BC Agriculture Fairs, Exhibitions and Events 2023 scholarship winner

BC Fairs Buy BC Agriculture Trivia Contest A Big Success

Kaden Tamis, a Holy Cross Regional High School Graduate from Surrey, B.C. is this years BC Association of Agricultural Fairs & Exhibitions scholarship recipient. Throughout his education Kaden has been recognized with numerous awards including the Gold Honour Roll, Instrumental Solid Performer of the Year, Basketball Most Improved Player and Outstanding Achievement in Christian Education. His biggest honour came outside of school when he received the 4-H Pledge Award , the first that has been granted in 10 years. The award recognizes demonstrated aspects of the 4-H pledge which includes 'My head to clear thinking; my heart to greater loyalty; my hands to larger service and my health for better living for the club, the community, the country and the world'. Kaden gives back to his community through volunteering including his Music Student Leadership team, Alter Server at Precious Blood Parish , helping with food donations to the local soup kitchen and multiple roles with 4-H. He also has significant experience in the agriculture industry have worked at farms throughout the Fraser Valley and supporting local neighbours with chores around their homes. On Behalf of all our members, the President and Directors of the board, congratulations to Kaden Tamis on receiving the 2022 BC Association of Agricultural Fairs & Exhibitions scholarship. BC Association of Agricultural Fairs & Exhibitions recognizes the importance of education to the future of the agriculture industry and offers a yearly scholarship of $2,500. Stay in contact to be notified for the entries call in 2023 by regularly visiting our website, following our social media channels or downloading our app.