13 people behind the success of Port Elgin’s biggest annual event have received honours from the Ontario government.
The group of Pumpkinfest volunteers were to have received Ontario Volunteer Service Awards on June 26th in Owen Sound — but most of them could not attend because they were also involved in Saugeen Shores’ Relay for Life that night.
They instead collected their awards at last week’s Saugeen Shores council meeting.
Community Relations Coordinator for Pumpkinfest and the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce, Sally Hunt says they’re among the 200 volunteers they recruit each year for the event.
She says community and non-profit groups usually supply another three or four hundred volunteers.
Hunt says the volunteer commitment was reflected when Pumpkinfest received the Best Community Involvement Award from Festivals and Events Ontario, earlier this year.
She says new volunteers are always welcome and anyone who is interested can call her at 519-832-2332.
Ryan Smith is the recipient of the Youth Award.
Verna Nelson, Connie Barker, and Councillor Luke Charbonneau have been recognized for over five years of service.
Receiving awards for over ten years of service are Duncan Atkinson, Roger Carson, and Kevin MacMillan.
Jim Kline, Sibyl Henderson, Bill Henderson, Joe Brunato, and Don Lindhorst have received awards for over 15 years of volunteer service to Pumpkinfest.
Pumpkinfest is going into its 23rd year this year and takes place on October 3rd and 4th.