Davidsons are thrilled

Posted Feb 2, 2012 By Bill Freeman

---

EMC News -Norwood - Bonnie and Alex Davidson were "humbled and honoured" after receiving the Norwood Agricultural Society's highest honour during a gala dinner and awards night last week.

The Davidsons, long-time residents, business owners and busy volunteers in the community, including work with the Norwood Fair, were presented with the prestigious Agricultural Service Award by president Greg Stewart with family members on hand to share the moment.

"It's a humbling experience to be standing here in front of so many family and friends," said Bonnie, a retired school teacher and 39-year volunteer with the Society's School Fair division.

"The spirit of this community never stops, it's like the Energizer Bunny, it keeps giving and giving," her husband Alex added. Alex owned and operated Norwood Home Hardware until he sold the business ten years ago and noted that the fair "always supported our business and family and wherever possible we hope we can return that support.

"The Agricultural Society brings people together every year from different professionals, varied ideas and different beliefs and blends them all together to create a top fair envied by many others," he said.

Bonnie said her "induction into volunteer life in Norwood" started with an invitation to get involved with the school fair division.

"Two weeks after we were married Laura Lobb came into the store and walked up to me and asked me if I would like to be part of the school division of the fair. I had no idea what she was talking about but anything to do with schools got my interest."

That was 39 years ago, her level of commitment has not flagged.

"We've come a long way since then," she said noting that all the exhibits were in what is now the social area of the curling club which did not exist in those earlier days. There were also very few directors.

Despite that "we thought we had one of the best school fairs in Ontario," Bonnie said. The division has now expanded to the point "where we wonder where we're going to display all these exhibits.

"Now we're certain we have one of the best school fairs in Ontario." She recalled how thrilling it was to be designated a Class A fair and how proud they are of the Norwood Fair Ambassadors and what they bring to the fair.

"Who would have dreamed of the beautiful buildings on the grounds? Each year seems to bring growth and excitement to the fair."

The Norwood Fair, she emphasized, was not just about exhibits, rides, animals, car shows, volunteers hours "and everything else that happens on Thanksgiving weekend.

"It's a feeling of family and community. That's why receiving this award is so special and we are honoured to receive it."







blog comments powered by Disqus