Media Release

2014 Innovation Credit Union Donation to Wayne Pruden Memorial Tournament

May 8th 2014

Innovation Credit Union Regional Vice-President Chad Gartner (far right) presents the Credit Union’s cheque for master sponsorship of the Wayne Pruden Memorial Golf Tournament to Battlefords Union Hospital (BUH) Foundation Director Roger Anderson (far left) while North Battleford Golf and Country Club Director of Golf Dana Johnson(centre) .

Innovation Credit Union (ICU) Regional Vice-President of Chad Gartner presented the cheque on behalf of ICU. He said this will mark its 18^th year as a sponsor, and it’s happy to do so. Gartner noted ICU is the success it is because of its members. “We think it’s important that we provide community involvement and give back,” he said. McGuire said North Battleford M & M Meat Shops Franchisee Ed Lee is sponsoring meals for the banquet after the tournament. She said that’s a big donation.“ It’s probably in the range between 4 and $5,000” McGuire said.

Ed’s enthusiasm and good will is one of the most enjoyable aspects of this tournament and we’re very thankful for his generosity and friendship,” she added.

“They donate all the major menu items for the banquet and they are once again accommodating 220-plus meals, so we’re very grateful to them.”

McGuire thanked NBGCC Director of Golf Dana Johnson for once again making the golf course available for the tournament. She noted the NBGCC is once again reducing green fees for the tournament.

“It’s definitely a privilege to have access to your remarkable golf course, Dana. He and his staff work tirelessly to ensure the success of this event every year. And we’re thankful for your efforts,” she said, adding staff not only get the golf course ready for the event but also help set up and put away sponsorship signs, etc.

“I think you guys must be out there at 6 in the morning,” she said, adding, “they truly help make this a remarkable event for us.”

Johnson said the NBGCC is pleased to contribute.

“We’re a very proud sponsor. That’s our donation back to the event, and we’re very proud to host it for the 18^th year,” he told reporters.

“This is the largest tournament we host all year,” Johnson added.

“We look forward to having the tournament again this season and hopefully mother nature will warm up the temperatures and we look forward to another great golf year.”

McGuire said the involvement of Pruden’s family and friends are a major factor in the success of the tournament.

“Many of the golfers involved and volunteers who will be participating in the tournament this year were actually participants when this tournament started in 1997, and this includes Wayne Pruden’s children – members of his family, and many of his friends,” McGuire said.

“I believe this is what makes this event so respected and why it remains so significant in the community. The continued commitment of our sponsors is also pivotal to the success of this tournament and we’re grateful to the Battlefords business community for that.”

Roger Anderson, a member of the BUHF board, said he too believes the WPMGT is a great cause and he’s happy to help out.