Pontiac Arena Fund holds first AGM, working towards charitable status

Pontiac Arena Fund holds first AGM, working towards charitable status

On July 21, the members of the Pontiac Arena Fund gathered in the rink’s lobby for their inaugural annual general meeting.

President Mike Rusenstrom led the meeting and said that he was proud of the work that’s taken place in such a short time-span.

The group presented their finances from March 1 – July 1 2025, where they had a total revenue of $180,653.08, largely from their successful men’s night fundraiser in May, with expenses of just $273.36 for administration and bank fees. Donations from several community organizations and initiatives have yet to be added to the total, and $100,000 was put into a GIC in late June.

Rusenstrom said that they have been working to secure charity status, which they have been advised typically takes between three and six months.

Pontiac Agricultural Society President Ralph Lang was present at the meeting and gave an update on some of the exterior work that had been done over the summer, replacing siding in places and adding insulation. Rusenstrom said that the insulation should make a noticeable difference regulating the temperature this season.

The group has several upcoming fundraisers such as their Drive-in Bingo this Friday night (July 25) at the fairgrounds, and a ladies night on September 19. Rusenstrom said that they have their next men’s night already booked for May 8, 2026.

The group also held elections, and their board of directors is as follows: