It's Day Two of IPM 2019

There’s no shortage of activities and events on Day two of the 2019 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo in Verner.

The plowing matches start at 9:30 am, plus there’s rodeo events, lumberjack shows, live entertainment and much more.

For all the details and scheduled events check out IPM2019.com

The Skyhawks Canadian Armed Forces parachute team will put on a demonstration above Tented City between noon and 12:30 pm.

Tonight’s concert features Taw Connors, son of Stompin’ Tom with a tribute show to his father.

Tickets are $20.

Officials say yesterday’s opening day was a success with ‘throngs of people’ taking in the event.

“None of what you’re about to experience this week would be possible without the hard work, dedication and passion of all our volunteers,” said IPM Chair Neil Fox, referring to about 1,200 volunteers.

The day began with a Parade from the settlement of Verner and through Tented City to the Main Stage for the Opening Ceremony.

There were 47 entries, including antique tractors, large equipment, community groups and plenty of dignitaries.

“We are extremely proud of what’s happened here and we’re grateful to the people of West Nipissing for welcoming us,” said Sheila Marshall, President of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, the parent hosts of the IPM. “We are exceedingly proud to see so many people here today.”

As is tradition, provincial party leaders, including Premier Doug Ford, made their way to the IPM for Opening Day.

Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh was among the other dignitaries to attend, and tried his hand at plowing, alongside the provincial party leaders in a demonstration event.

(Photos submitted — Aerial photo by Sylvie Primeau)