On December 2nd, at the kind invitation of Durham MPP Todd McCarthy, I attended proceedings at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. I was there as an agricultural representative born into multi-generational farming and to promote my passionate role as a Director of the Port Perry Agricultural Society. It was my first time viewing House proceedings. I watched the Legislature in session and saw Todd McCarthy speak on the floor in his role as Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement.
Afterwards, I was accompanied by Minister McCarthy’s Aide, Cam, to meet the Minister and thank him for his much appreciated invitation to Parliament on that cool but sunny day. I enjoyed watching question period, and the incredible Christmas decorations were an added bonus, not to mention a delicious lunch that included a warm bowl of soup!
During my visit, I also had the pleasure of meeting MPP Rob Flack, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. We briefly got to share our passion for farming and the importance of rural roots and honouring families’ multi-generational hardships and dedication to farming and the importance of preserving Agricultural Societies’ rural history and community involvement. We also share a mutual connection to Port Perry—while sharing the rich history of our PPAS park I shared the coincidental tie to our town’s historic Old Mill, which was owned by Master Feeds from 1949, a company of which Minister Flack was the CEO since 1993 and where he dedicated almost 43 years of service.
It was a valuable day. Many of us should experience the Legislature’s proceedings from the viewing gallery and admire the rich architecture which evokes a deep sense of governing history that humbles one. Queen’s Park opened in 1860, which gave me pause, realizing our PPAS was established in 1853. Having that visual comparison led to deep introspection about how we are long past due to build a reimagined Agri-Park to honour the deep rural roots of our agricultural ancestors. Much like the “Stately” and “Powerful” feelings that overwhelm one in the presence of the Legislative Building, the old PPAS Fairgrounds embody that same ghostly effect of memories gone by, laughter shared, friendships bonded, farmers jesting. We should honour the important role of the Agricultural Society and continue with increased education and community Interaction at our Park—as was intended—by establishing a facility to hold more events and programs year- round. We can celebrate and promote the Past, Present and Future of Agriculture through support of local federations, farm connections and the PPAS by enhancing our historic Fairgrounds park with a facility that should reflect the value and the role that agriculture has in our communities, our families, our future and our memories, all while paying homage to farmers from Durham and across our great Province. Where would Community be without you!
Kirsten Kirby
PPAS Director
Chairperson/Heavy Horse Show
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