CARLYLE - On March 13, the Knights of Columbus held another successful snowmobile rally with 60 riders participating.
The 80-kilometre ride headed south from Arcola to Willmar, west to Browning, and then north to Kisbey. It then headed east with the snowmobilers gathering at the farm of Michael Weber.
The Knights of Columbus is a global Catholic fraternal service order. There are over two million members and more than 16,000 local Knights of Columbus councils all over the world. This order is dedicated to the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Carlyle is one of those councils and presently has 49 members.
Ray Boutin is the grand knight, George Anderson the financial secretary and Armand Aalbers the treasurer.
“The first snowmobile derby was held in 1993 and originated at the Arcola Land & Cattle Company premises, now known as the High House,” said Boutin. “In 1996 it was hosted by Moose Mountain Leisure and from there on the event took place at Jerry Weber’s farm. Recently, Richard and Michael Weber have hosted the derby.”
The weather was perfect on this day and George Anderson indicated that the rally raised over $5,000, from their annual dice throw, raffle tables and sales of homemade chili. Winners of the dice game were Sean Bayer, $1,630, who had the high hand of 54, and Aubrey Larson, $995, for the low hand of 19.
There were 29 individuals that rolled the mystery number of 26, and by draw the lucky winner of $660 was Brian Craig. Over 80 people attended the event-ending supper.
Boutin and Anderson both wish to thank all those who attended, the workers, and the local businesses who provided generous prizes and giveaways. Said Anderson: “This snowmobile rally is our largest fundraiser of the year. All the proceeds will go towards various projects including the Kenosee Lake Boys and Girls Camp, and the Provincial Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids campaign.
“At the boys and girls camp, a robotic cleaner is being purchased for use by our swimming pool.”
Added Boutin: “We will be making a donation to the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club in appreciation of riding on their well-groomed trails. As well, we have been providing an annual bursary to the Southeast Community College Continuing Care Assistants program and will be also supporting the local foodbank.”
