HALKIRK HERALD -- Family and friends gathered at the hall on Wednesday evening for the final Grade 9 farewell, which followed a pot luck supper. The evening began with the introduction of the Grade 9 students and their parents; Brennon Grice (Sheldon and Erica); Abby Musgrove (Grant and Judy); Brooklyn Perry (Sheldon and Cynthia); Mikenna Schauer (Todd and Alison) with Grace said by secretary/teacher aid, Maxine Baird.
East central chairperson, Charlie McCormick began the program with a farewell greeting to the students, followed by a presentation of hoodies and chains by Matt Koenraadt on behalf of the Halkirk Elks; Scrolls to the grads by teacher Mike Courtney; Bibles by trustee Rob Nichols on behalf of the Stettler Knights of Columbus and a gift and blessing by Father Don. The grades 7 and 8 entertainment and a slide show brought much laughter. A heartfelt message of encouragement and appreciation highlighted teacher Sheri Beier’s charge to the graduates followed by a thank you by teacher Tracey Turre. Cale Neufeld did an excellent job as emcee for the evening.
Piano recital was on May 30 at the hall; students this year were Shawna Brower, Natalie Schilling, Jacob Rauangrith, Aspen Johnson, Ella May Perry, Natalie Kobe, Tayah Perry, Dakota Gemmell and Logan Perry.
Kourtney Schilling, bride elect of Mark Forester, was honored on Saturday in the hall with a gathering of ladies who “showered” her with gifts and best wishes. Three grandmas, Barbara Schilling, Cherrone Ziemmer and Carol Nixon joined the moms, and the bridal party. A delicious lunch was served during the afternoon.
Grades 4 through 9 students participated at the track meet in Wainwright on Tuesday. Several students received 2nd and 3rd place ribbons, but special mention goes to Devon Johnson on receiving four 1st place medals. Congrats to all the competitors.
On Thursday, the elementary school went to St. Albert on a field trip to experience the International Children’s Festival of Arts performances and activities entitled “Afrique-en-cirque”. Parent supervisors Cynthia, Sandra, Laura, Erica and Tanya joined the teachers for a fantastic day.
Tiana Gamroth competed at provincials in the 100M dash on Saturday. She had placed 2nd at areas in Stettler, 2nd at zones in Camrose and received a 9th place in Provincials. Very good, Tiana!
Castor U14 girls won the Stettler ball tournament this weekend. Familiar names are Ryley Bunbury, Kiara Gamroth, Hanna Jackson, Devon Johnson and Morgyn Jordal. The U12 girls, Toryn Johnson and Parker Slemp had a fun time.
Congratulations to Max Schaffner, who received his Kinesology diploma in adapted Phys. Ed. from Red Deer College. He plans to return in fall to add physical training to this with a goal of working with para-olympic athletes. Max has spent his Saturday mornings over the past two years working with five- to seven-year olds who have artificial limbs, teaching them to kick a ball and etc. He is working at the Paintearth Lodge this summer as their rec guy.
Congratulations to Steven and Kelsey Strandquist on the birth of a son, Troy Steven, born on May 30 in Stettler. The Strandquists also have a daughter, Yelena and a son, Dominic. Proud grandparents are Bonnie and Michael Boeno with Louise Strandquist as great-granny.
We extend our sympathy to Julie (Anderson) Paschke on the passing of her husband, Larry, in Edmonton on May 28. Julie is the daughter of Jean and the late Ed Anderson and a niece of Janette and Lowell Berry. Larry is also survived by a son, Brett, daughter in law Joanne and three grandchildren, Trish, BJ and Trent.
There were lots of campers on the road this weekend with several from Halkirk at Boelkes Pond.
Coming up: June 6 to 12 – Seniors’ week – Popovich entertains at the Castor hall; June 8 – 11 – AB Elks’ provincial conference in Hanna; June 9 – Final hall board bingo at 7:30 until fall; June 20 – Awards night at Mother Teresa school; June 21 – BBQ at the seniors’ centre.