CANORA - As part of the recent River Ridge Fish & Game annual awards presentation, Kathy Thomas was recognized for her 23 years as president.
Ernie Gazdewich, who took over from Thomas as president, presented her with a carved moose antler containing the engraving “Kathy Thomas – Thank you for the years of service – River Ridge Fish & Game.”
Thomas became president of River Ridge in 2000. The goal she set for the club was to focus on habitat preservation and keeping the outdoors alive for future generations.
To date, River Ridge has donated more than $70,000 to the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation to help with the purchase of Habitat Trust Lands, preserving it for wildlife and for future generations to have land to enjoy, whether it be hunting, fishing or just bird watching.
Thomas is also passionate about keeping our youth involved in the outdoors. River Ridge Fish & Game members are huge supporters of the NASP (National Archery in the Schools) program, in which many of the children from the club are involved and have achieved great success.
As the tribute to Thomas stated, “River Ridge is where it is today because of Kathy's vision and dedication to that vision. We will strive to continue her legacy. Thank you Kathy!”
The 2023 awards included recognition for birds, big game and fishing award winners
Big game
Andrew Owchar won the big game aggregate with at total of 93 points for junior white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and two bears. He also captured the black bear award with a score of 19 13/16.
Emily Owchar was the winner of the ladies white-tailed deer award with a score of 107. Connor Kraynick had the top score for junior white-tailed deer at 137 2/8.
Cory Heshka captured the elk award with a score of 325.
Clayton Malanowich won a pair of awards: typical white-tailed deer with a score of 151, and typical mule deer for a score of 154 2/8. With a score of 146 4/8, Harvey Malanowich took home the award for moose.
Neal Matechuk was the winner for muzzleloader white-tailed deer by scoring 129 5/8. Brent Danylko won for non-typical white-tailed deer by scoring 167, and Jim Oliver’s score of 79 2/8 earned him the antelope award.
Birds
Lane Butterfield won the award for goose with a weight of 9 pounds and 14 ounces, and also earned the duck award at two pounds and 10 ounces.
Fish
Sharon Ripa won the ladies catch & release walleye award with a weight of nine pounds, two ounces. Terry Ripa was the winner in catch & release northern pike at 17 pounds and 14 ounces.
Executive
Members of the 2022/23 River Ridge Fish & Game executive were: Ernie Gazdewich, president; Sharon Ripa, secretary; Doug Lapitsky, treasurer and habitat; Kate Lockert, memberships, and LeeAnne Butterfield, lotteries.
