There was an enthusiastic crowd out to meet the 2013-14 North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association Ambassador candidates on April 25 at the Lions Hall in Barriere.
The evening started with current Ambassador Aliya Bieber, and Vice-Ambassador Alisha Gotro, introducing the new candidates and their sponsors.
Candidates are:
Cherie Witts, who was escorted by Janette and Danny Noble, of Noble Quarter Horses. Cherie is 15-years-old and attends Clearwater Secondary. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, drawing, painting, and working with horses. She also likes to get involved in community activities.
Kennedy Ash, escorted by Ron Lenoue, representing the Barriere Lions Club. Kennedy is 16-years-old and attends Clearwater Secondary. She received an award in last year’s Ambassador Program for most improved speaking, and enjoyed the program so much that she is participating again this year.
Jenna Zietsov, escorted by Kaylee Ash, representing Jim’s Food Market. Jenna is 15-years-old and attends Clearwater Secondary. In her spare time, she likes to play sports, music, and read. She participates in school volleyball, basketball and soccer, and plays the piano, guitar, flute and baritone saxophone.
Vanessa Balatti, escorted by Raj Mahall of the Knight’s Inn. Vanessa is 14-years-old and attends Barriere Secondary. She likes the outdoors, music and sports, and in her spare time enjoys spending time with friends.
Chelsea Wilson, escorted by Chief Rita Matthew of Simpcw First Nation. Chelsea is 14-yeas-old and attends Barriere Secondary. She likes drawing, music, painting and singing, and her hobbies include camping, drawing and fishing.
This year, the candidates will be participating in several courses, including: Toastmasters, agriculture, proper etiquette, personal and professional boundaries, resume writing, interview preparation, history of the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo, equine awareness, and horseback riding.
After being introduced, an apron auction followed, with Barry Brady rattling off the bids. Each apron had been made by the royalty and the candidates to help raise funds for the Ambassador program this year. Past reigning North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association Queen Kayla Holowaychuk was also in attendance, with two of her aprons auctioned off to help her as a candidate this year for BC Ambassador.