MAIDSTONE — Our community is devastated to hear fire destroyed the home of Dennis and Valeria Lakatos on Saturday night, Feb. 24. They lost everything and are staying with friends for now.
Dennis and Valerie are raising two grandsons following the tragic death of their daughter five years ago. While many reached out to help immediately with urgent items via Grace Community Church (Melanie Pompu), this family needs all the support we can give. Money donations can be made at Synergy Credit Union to the Dennis Lakatos account or online at the GoFundMe fundraiser organized by Carol Klassen. An online auction is being organized: contact Desirae Blanchette Wyatt on Facebook or drop off items at Quick-EZE Truck & Car Wash on Highway 21 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Your compassion and generosity will bring comfort and hope as the family faces this tragedy and begins to rebuild their lives.
Nicholas (Nick) Dwyer passed away in Paynton Feb. 17 at the age of 72 years. Sincere sympathy goes to his three sons and spouses: William/Laura, Nicholas/Kate, Shane/Natalie, eight grandchildren, his brothers, sisters and extended family. Nick was a proud and devoted grandfather. He loved to hang out with his family and friends and go fishing. Having lived in Paynton for 30 years, he was known and loved by many who describe him as “a really great guy.” He is now at peace with his wife and daughter. There will be a celebration of life for Nick in both Paynton and Newfoundland at a later date.
Jean McColl passed away at Maidstone Health Complex Feb. 19 at 97 years of age. Condolences are extended to her sisters Grace Manulak and Doreen Hope, sisters-in-law Paulette Huxley and Leona Huxley, as well as other family and friends. Jean led a long, full and healthy life. She was a dedicated worker, faithful friend, avid sports fan and world traveller and she loved the outdoors. My favourite memory of Jean is her walks around town, gathering stray bottles and cans along the way and donating them to Girl Guides. She loved to visit with the girls when we picked them up. As per Jean’s wishes, no service will be held at this time.
Maidstone United Church thanks all who came to the pancake supper Feb. 20. It was a sellout crowd which was no wonder as the meal was great. We all look forward to it again next year.
The Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club’s dessert bingo Feb. 21 also drew a large crowd. Two of my grandkids were working at it so I took Katie (their five-year-old sister) to try our luck. The 4-H members are to be commended on an excellent job calling the games, selling cards and canteen, and with set-up and clean-up. I won once and Katie won twice so it was a sweet night all around (and the desserts were delicious).
Maidstone Bowling Club members are proving the game is “right up their alley.” Thank you to Dusty Sutherland for compiling the following high averages for me as of Feb. 23. Youth League: Bantam – Anna Foster 161, Nicholas Leepart 113, William Leepart 93; Juniors – Ben Foster 164, Parker Schempp 141, Jack Foster 139; Seniors – Noah Schempp 183, Jansen Sutherland 147, Darys Blyth 137. Business League: Men – Matt Sayers 198, Ryan Donovan 193, Justin Wiltermuth 171; Women – Melissa Paton 180, Carley James 151, Kyla Paton 144. Ladies Afternoon League: Shirley Brown 177, Kathy Ballan 165, Leanne Weston 162. Seniors League (Golden Age): Men – Keith Milner 179, Walter Kohuch 176, Keven Kanten 149; Women – Pat Armstrong 159, Doreen Hope 155, Denise Newton 149.
Milleton Hall’s “Murder Mystery Night” on Feb. 24 enticed about 100 sleuths, many in 1920s costume. A bountiful roast beef supper was prepared by Milleton Hall member volunteers. Thank you to Ron Allcock (“The Super Ron Show”) who guided the crowd through the mystery and dazzled them with his magic tricks. The murder was successfully solved by one group. Thanks to all who came and made the evening a huge success.
Telemiracle 48’s telethon is over for this year with a whopping total of over $6 million. The Kin Club of Maidstone’s delegation of 14 members spent the weekend in Regina assisting with production, social media, security, phones, treasury, Telemiracle Teddy and as messengers – big or small, they did it all, putting in more than 200 volunteer hours. Chris Zerr, Melissa Paton, Kyla Paton, Wes Bolig, Jody Zerr, Jeff Lines and Tennille Wakefield presented the community donation of $18,848 on Sunday morning. Thank you to everyone who donated and participated in Telemiracle 48.
Everyone is invited to attend the “Ecumenical Lenten Luncheon Series.” Churches worshipping together in a more contemporary style. The first three are on Wednesdays at 12:05 p.m. at Maidstone United Church C.E. Wing (201 – 1st St. E.) with a short service followed by lunch: March 6 is hosted by the Anglican Church, March 13 by the United Church and March 20 by the Catholic Church. The final service and lunch on Good Friday, March 29 is at Grace Community Church (212 – 4th Ave.) at 11 a.m. Contributions to the donation basket at each luncheon will go to the hosting church.
Maidstone Curling Club’s Ladies’ Bonspiel will take place March 9-10 with blind Calcutta, banquet, lots of fun and prizes. Entry fee is $240. Contact Melanie 780-808-0592.
