NATOSHA HALA
nominated by Stacy Kosior
Besides being an exceptional mother to two boys and owner of Dynasty Hair Salon, Natosha is the pillar of the community of Griffin and the Griffin Rec. Centre is one of Natosha’s passions. A curling rink and hall, it is the only location for the community to gather and host events. Presently Vice-President of the Board and Chair of the Fundraising, Entertainment, and Building Committees, Natosha inspires others to get involved by leading by example and making volunteering fun!
Natosha has served on the Griffin Hamlet Committee. This group was successful in their petition to the RM for a play park in a safe area which is enjoyed by the entire community. Her involvement and encouragement brought the community together to clear the lots as well as construct and install the playground equipment. This committee was also responsible for the installation of street signs and house numbering which has granted the community access to EMS and courier services
Not only is Natosha instrumental in organizing “cleaning bees”, “painting bees”, “Garbage Clean up Days” and Community Beautification Contests”, she makes fundraising look easy! Funds raised by numerous events spearheaded by Natosha, combined with community grant funds and community spirit, the installation of new metal siding and new flooring for the Rec Centre became a reality, and the construction of a new outdoor skating rink in Griffin. These upgrades have enhanced the Centre and many new activities have been initiated — such as Family Curling on Friday nights. Fundraising efforts have not only aided in maintenance, but have provided the Rec Centre the ability to host community events free of charge so that all can enjoy the Halloween Haunt, Santa Day and Youth Curling Clinics.
Natosha’s enthusiasm extends beyond her community and she has been a major contributor to raising awareness and funds for an orphanage and children in need through Oksana’s Harvest Ukraine Orphan Outreach. Through her business, she supports the Humane Society, Big Brothers and Sisters, Weyburn Minor Hockey and Soccer, to name a few. Natosha is a strong and passionate woman who volunteers her time and talents for the betterment of her community. A source of strength, leadership and heart, she is well deserving of the M. Isabelle Butters Quota International of Weyburn Community Service Award.
CAROL STOREY
nominated by Yvette Bauche
Raised on a farm in the Estevan area, Carol married Marvin in 1968 and raised three daughters. Prior to moving to Weyburn in 2008, Carol operated a daycare in Kipling and was active in the St. Anne’s Church as well as the Lions Club.
Carol has been dedicated to Girl Guides of Canada for 30 years and has held many positions, including Brown Owl, Tawny Owl, Kipling District Commissioner and Pipestone Valley Cookie Commissioner. A source of strength, leadership and heart to both the girls and her fellow leaders, Carol has not only earned the respect and gratitude of her fellow unit leaders, but through her efforts has inspired and motivated them to be more community-service oriented.
A square dancer since 1979, Carole joined the Weyburn Twirlers Square Dance Club in 2008 and was President in the last 3 years of the club’s existence. A member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and the Catholic Women’s League, Carol does Pastoral Care at Tatagwa when needed, does Children’s Liturgy many Sunday mornings, assists at banquets and funeral lunches, and is often helping at McKenna Hall without being asked. Carol is also a member of the Weyburn Special Care Home Auxiliary since 2012 and has been a canvasser for diabetes for the past five years.
What makes Carol even more special is her caring and compassionate manner. For six years Carol tended to a dear friend; she made and shared meals, drove her to medical and hair appointments, community events, etc. and when her friend was stricken with cancer and eventually moved to long term care, Carol continued to visit every day. When her friend died she assisted the family with funeral arrangements and cleaning the apartment. Carol is presently giving her time to assist another friend who is housebound.
Often on the road to Estevan to visit her elderly mother and mother-in-law, Carol takes them meals and enjoys playing cards with them.
Very sensitive to other’s needs and feelings, she treats people fairly and equally, is optimistic and encouraging. Carol is not afraid of hard work and helping those less fortunate. A very worthy recipient of the M. Isabelle Butters Quota International of Weyburn Community Service Award, she has made a great difference in many peoples’ lives.