by Joan Borho

The IPM Antique and Historical Committee hosted a fundraising breakfast on Sunday, April 13, at the Formosa Community Centre. Over 500 patrons from across Bruce County and the neighbouring counties enjoyed an abundant meal of eggs, potatoes, ham, sausage and breakfast trimmings prepared and served by Antique committee chair John Benninger, his committee and other volunteers.

The IPM Beautification Committee Chair Jennifer Isber-Legge and committee hosted a free Antique Appraisal on the upper floor of the hall. Metcalfe Auctions, Mildmay; Bailey Auctions, Hanover; Yokassippi Auctions, Teeswater; looked after the general appraisals, while Ross King of Elmwood specializes in coins, postcards and stamps and Brenda Hafermehl of Hanover looked after the jewellery appraisals. The fivel appraisers who donated their time and expertise to compliment the breakfast were kept busy and patrons were delighted to learn a bit about the history and value of their keepsakes.

The IPM Beautification tree fundraiser saw all their 675 trees picked up. IPM Souvenir chair Phyllis Hammell and her team were also on hand with a wide variety of IPM souvenirs. As well, the IPM poster was given free to anyone wishing one.

The breakfast was delicious, the antique appraisals were exciting and a visit with Ontario Queen of the Furrow Katie Chessmond just added to a perfect event.

The IPM committees are all busy preparing for the 2008 International Plowing Match which is being hosted by Bruce County on the outskirts of Teeswater from September 16 to 20. Do plan to attend and receive a real "Come Home to the Country" Welcome.

(r) OPA President Graeme and Helen Craig and his family and
Neil and Marie McGavin from Walton going through the line at the
IPM breakfast

Antique Appraisal complimented the IPM Breakfast
l-r Bailey Auctions, Metcalfe Auctions, Yokassippi Auctions,
Ross King, Hafermehl Jewellery donated their time and expertise.