I am writing to send a quick note in honour of National Volunteer Week (April 22-28) to all of the people of Fort Frances who so graciously dedicate their time and energy towards making the community a better place to live.
Last year, I was fortunate enough to be a member of the board of directors of the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship. Correspondingly, in my role of co-ordinating volunteers, I was overwhelmed and extremely enthused by the many supporters of the tournament–and by the volume of people who were willing to give hours upon hours of their time to assist with the many facets of the tournament.
It was truly a pleasure to meet so many people–those volunteers who return year after year and those who were new to all the excitement.
I encourage you–anyone who has ever enjoyed catching a big bass (or just enjoying the lake, if you weren’t so lucky that day), watching the weigh-ins, drinking a good draught, dancing in the street, spending the day with your children at the Sorting Gap, or just walking around in awe of the festivities–to take a minute this week to appreciate all the 500-plus volunteers who make the tournament happen.
Say “thank you.”
And if you are–or ever have been–a volunteer, then I applaud you, and this week is for you. Cheers to you, Fort Frances, for the time and resources that are dedicated to the various community events that thrive in the community that, in my heart, will always be “home.”
Especially to Rebecca, and the rest of the team who give their time the whole year through, from tournament end to tournament end, congratulations on your continued success. I look forward to coming home to enjoy the tournament year after year.
(Signed),
Kirstan Jewell (Bodnarchuk)
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
