MAYFAIR – End of July already – approximately three weeks of holidays for the teachers and a month for the students. This summer, I’m afraid, is a repeat from last summer across Western Canada for all of these forest fires!
Fiftieth wedding anniversary greetings to my neighbours Ron and Heather Buziak of Whitkow. A gorgeous late afternoon (thanks to the weather that decided to co-operate) was the outdoor setting for the celebration. Many neighbours and friends were at their party and what was impressive is that all of the bridal party from 50 years ago were present. Many of us attended a funeral July 14 in the morning but then went on to this happy anniversary occasion. Best wishes for many more happy years.
Over 70 members of the Michael and Heinrietta Marciniak family gathered for a first-time reunion at Diamond Hills Resort Adventure Park. This was formerly known as Blue Mountain and, when first established by Stanley Dudek, by the name White Tail Resort because this area is known for a high deer population. Stella Ewanchuk of North Battleford, used the word “fabulous” as a remark about the weekend. Ewanchuk is the youngest and only surviving child of Michael and Heinrietta.
Family members travelled from Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta and of course various points in Saskatchewan. For some it was the first time to meet others. Family Olympics, zip lining, silent auction and Kaiser (card game) were fun. Saturday evening a dance with music supplied by Norman Woytowich and Darlene Hupaelo got people up and moving. Stella Ewanchuk was a teacher for many years and taught Norman as a youngster.
A memorial service was held to pay respect to the deceased family members. Finally, July 7, the weekend ended with a trip to Hafford cemetery and to the Marciniak homestead. The next reunion celebration is slated for July 2027 which will commemorate 100 years of pioneer homestead.
Another family reunion of which I was a part: seven of us siblings from the Joe and Irena Gregoire (née Nachtegaele) got together in Vanscoy (14 miles west of Saskatoon) to share much laughter, games, reminiscing, photo shots and excellent food. The attendance was approximately 68 on Saturday July 13, and varying numbers on the Friday and Sunday. Some travelled from as far away as British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and places in Saskatchewan. The weekend was just perfect weather-wise, not too hot or chilly.
Meeting Lakes Saturday markets for August are 3, 24 and 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come visit the 20-plus vendors with a large assortment of food and crafts.
A special big anniversary celebration (65th) Aug. 3 for Duane and Jean Massett at the community hall. Come join them at 7 p.m. for socializing, goodies and coffee.
Closed from July 29 to Aug. 5 is the RM of Round Hill office located in Rabbit Lake (in the same building as the post office.
Also a reminder for the Rabbit Lake transfer station hours: Wednesday 4:30-8:30 p.m. and the first Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A wonderful reading schedule has been going strong at Rabbit Lake’s local library (a Lakeland branch), which started July12. One can still take in the August summer reading program. There are activities with a theme every Friday: Aug. 2 – fossils, Aug. 9 – airplanes, Aug. 16 – catapults, Aug. 23 – rainbows and Aug. 30 – skyscrapers. Kids should keep up with their reading skills because in another month their holidays will be ended.
Parents wanting to send their children ages five to12 to a vacation Bible camp, mark your calendars for Aug. 26 to 28. This is to be held in Glenbush’s Mennonite Brethren Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, please contact Vanessa at 306-883-2662.
Long weekend in August always means the big Leoville Trail Riders Rodeo from Friday on till Monday. This is an amateur rodeo featuring steer wrestling, calf and team roping, chicken racing, mutton busting for kids and other events. Two outdoor dances with live bands are a drawing card. There is usually a large attendance as Leoville is close to many lakes so people can take in fishing, boating, etc.
As we all know of the sad news about Jasper, Alta. (a historic site) and Golden, B.C., due to the horrific forest fires, one can be generous at this time. If you donate money to the Red Cross, the provincial and federal governments will match your donation. So many individuals are burdened with fire-related problems.
So far we are safe on the Prairies and have lots to be thankful for. Stay safe as there will be an increase in traffic on the roads as people rush to wherever they are going. Leave safely and return in one piece.
