Benson had two reasons to celebrate

The Rural Municipality of Benson offered people a couple of reasons to celebrate on July 9.

For starters, the community hosted a successful Canada 150 event. Festivities started with a bike and antique car parade in the early afternoon. In a write-up for the event, Benson resident Laureen Keating said the bicycles looked very festive coming down the street decorated and adorned with balloons. 

The parade concluded at the Benson playground, where the opening ceremonies and other activities were held. Among the highlights was the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new basketball court, which is located at the playground.

The RM received $18,250 through the Government of Canada’s Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program. It also received $18,000 through the Community Places and Spaces program from the provincial government’s Community Initiatives Fund.

An initial donation of $7,500 came from Enbridge Pipelines Inc. in November 2015, and Highrock Resources raised $14,500 for the court through a golf tournament last year.

Various oilfield companies and local supporters contributed a total of $5,950.

Children enjoyed basketball, volleyball, soccer and street hockey. A bouncy castle and face painting also attracted children. They could also play on the swings and in the sandbox.

“It was wonderful to see the children run from venue to venue, trying out all of the activities provided for them,” said Keating. “The celebration was only the beginning of many more hours of enjoyment for the children of Benson and the surrounding area at the Benson playground.” 

A canteen was supplied by the Benson Catholic Women’s League, with bottled water a popular item because of the afternoon heat. 

A supper in the hall was attended by more than 150 people. It was a time for people to visit and renew old acquaintances. Some people came from Estevan to see people they know in Benson.

Keating noted there were many volunteers who helped out with the event, as they provided assistance with fundraising, as well as before, during and after the event.