The Hussar Ag Society was victorious in its quest to secure $25,000 in extra funding through the Growing Home program.
The Growing Home Program through BASF awarded $160,000 to 12 community organizations in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. The Hussar Ag Society was the grand prize winner, securing $25,000 for its arena.
“We are pretty fortunate, these small communities rally together and support each other,” ssaid Hussar Ag Society president Brad Dundas. “All of our kids play in each of these arenas, so it s it pretty important to the community so they can rally together and support each other.”
The Ag Society was named one of three finalists in the contest, but it was up to its supporters to vote for the project, and the community came out in droves to boost the organization's chances.
On April 29, the winner was announced.
Dundas explains the funds will go towards regular maintenance, including the replacement of two hot water tanks.
“Operating expenses are extremely high for these kinds of facilities, so it will go towards the whole building’s operation and maintenance,” he said.
He also notes that a few years ago they upgraded the ice plant, and the funds will help them realize the debt for this.
Dundas says the arena is crucial to the community, especially in a small town. Minor hockey and ringette are active users, as is the Hussar Skating Club.
In the offseason, the 4H makes good use of the facility for its activities, including its annual Show and Sale.
“It is pretty much the hub of our community. Every weekend and most days of the week, it is filled with everybody, from curling to ringette to hockey,” he said. “It is a gathering place for a lot of fundraising events and organized sports. If you want to meet someone in the wintertime, go down to the arena, eat some food and have a visit.”
A statement for the Ag Society upon winning notes, “We are honoured to be chosen for this incredible prize. It’s giving us the opportunity to invest in long-overdue upgrades to the arena that are essential to our continued success. These projects will allow us to continue to provide our youth with affordable access to community events and activities. We are so grateful for the support our community showed us throughout the campaign.”

    Long-time Drumheller town councillor Lisa Hansen-Zacharuk has succumbed to cancer after a long, courageous battle.
    Driven by her commitment to her community, Hansen-Zacharuk was in the midst of her fourth term as a Drumheller town councillor.
    Born and raised in Drumheller, along with serving as a councillor she was active in many different community organizations and initiatives.
    She served the Drumheller and District Stampede and Agriculture Society, the Royal Tyrrell Museum Cooperating Society, the Homestead Museum Society and the Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce.
    Professionally, she owned and operated  Gus  Corner Restaurant for over a decade before she launched her career in insurance.
    She was active in provincial politics and made many connections in government. In 2014, when members of the Wild Rose Party crossed the floor to join the Progressive Conservatives, she spearheaded a campaign to raise funds for the caucus staff who were laid off in the political move.
    Hansen-Zacharuk was diagnosed with cancer in 2020 and courageously began a Facebook blog called My Journey with Stage 4. Lisa’s Story.
    This live journal describes her journey and provided her with an outlet. It was also a support and inspiration for others on their cancer journeys.
    During her battle, in the 2021 fall civic election, she retained her seat as councillor and continued to serve to the best of her ability being an effective advocate for residents.