By Joel van der Veen
KENASTON — A couple of trips to Kenaston left a solid impression on Steve and Lisa Thomson and their family.
“We absolutely fell in love with the community,” said Steve, explaining that they had visited from Port Dover, Ont., for a couple of family weddings.
So when they decided to move to Saskatchewan, he added, “Kenaston just seemed to be the right place.”
The Thomsons — including their kids Bella, 14, and Sam, 12 — arrived in town this summer, and while they’re still adjusting to small-town life, Steve said their experience so far confirms they made the right choice.
“There’s this real nice quality of life,” he said, contrasting it with the busyness of cities like Saskatoon, while Bella said she finds the atmosphere easy and inviting.
The Thomsons were among the guests who lined the tables at Kenaston Place last week as the village gathered for a barbecue to welcome its latest arrivals.
About 80 people attended the annual event, held on Wednesday evening and sponsored by the Kenaston and District Chamber of Commerce.
The crowd included more than a dozen newcomers who have arrived in Kenaston over the past year.
Burgers, salads and drinks were served, followed by cake for dessert, and the guests of honour were introduced by chamber secretary-treasurer Susan Anholt during a short program.
Anholt said the newcomers include former Kenaston residents who have moved back to town, as well as singles, couples and families moving there for the first time. The event began in Saskatchewan’s centennial year, 2005, and has continued annually since then.
Mayor ML Whittles spoke to the crowd, welcoming the newcomers and encouraging them to meet people and get involved in the community.
She explained how the construction of Sun West School Division’s Distance Learning Centre (DLC) has been a catalyst for growth, calling it Kenaston’s “potash mine.”
“It gives us a stamp of who we are and the ability to continue growing,” she said, adding that the community needs to include both those in the village and in the surrounding area.
DLC vice-principal Aaron Bieberdorf spoke about the educational opportunities available in Kenaston and the growth seen at the schools, while EMO co-ordinator Gene Whitehead invited the public to get involved with the volunteer fire department.
For the rest of the story, please see the Aug. 17 print edition of The Davidson Leader.