There was a celebration Wednesday afternoon in the parking lot of the UFA in High River complete with beef on a bun, pulled pork and even a little anniversary cake.

Local UFA Petroleum Dealer Dan Ritz took the opportunity to say "Thanks" to his customers.

"I've been running the petroleum agency for thirty-five years now in High River. I ran it with my Dad for the first few years. For the last twenty years I've been an Agent on my own. This is all to just to show how much I appreciate the customers that have been with me for years, I have a fantastic customer base."

He says he moved into the UFA location about a dozen years ago and credits his customers for his continued success.

He says things have change a lot from their humble beginnings.

"I just got out of school and my Dad was the UFA Agent at that time. I worked for him for several years in a little one room shack down on Centre Street in High River and then we moved up her about twelve years ago."

He says he can't say what's changed about the business the most but adds he's always been able to stay competitive even during difficult economic times.

he credits his loyal customers for being able to stay in business as long as he has.

"I would like to thank my very valuable and loyal customers who have been with me for a lot of years. Lunch is on UFA in honour of my thirty-fifth anniversary. My customers are also my friends and I really appreciated seeing everyone out here today."

High River UFA Petroleum Agent, Dan Ritz. Photo - Jeff McLenaghan.