Sayward Volunteer Fire Department Invites Community To Mother’s Day Tea – May 10th 12pm-2pm

The Mother’s Day celebration in Sayward is getting a heartfelt local twist this year, as the Sayward Volunteer Fire Department invites the community to a charming afternoon tea event.

Set for May 10th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Hall #2, located at 1306 Sayward Road, the Mother’s Day Tea offers a warm and welcoming way to celebrate the important women in our lives—while also connecting with the people who help keep the community safe.

The event promises more than just tea. Guests will have the opportunity to meet local firefighters and first responders in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. It’s a rare chance to put faces to the names behind emergency response and learn more about the dedicated volunteers who serve Sayward year-round.

Of course, no tea would be complete without treats. Attendees can look forward to a delicious spread of baked goods and classic tea-time favourites. From sweet pastries to comforting refreshments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while soaking in the cheerful, spring-inspired atmosphere.

Adding to the fun, door prizes will be up for grabs, giving guests even more reason to stop by and take part in the celebration.

Events like this highlight the strong sense of community in Sayward. The Sayward Volunteer Fire Department plays a vital role beyond emergency response—bringing people together, building relationships, and creating memorable local experiences.

Whether you’re celebrating with your mom, grandmother, family, or friends, the Mother’s Day Tea is shaping up to be a meaningful and enjoyable way to spend the afternoon.

Mark your calendar for May 10th, and don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day with good company, great food, and the dedicated volunteers who help keep Sayward safe.

Patricia Rusch Recognized for 20 Years of Dedicated Service with Sayward Fire & Rescue

The Strathcona Regional District and the Sayward Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department are honouring Patricia “Pat” Rusch for an impressive 20 years of service, recognizing her unwavering commitment to emergency response and community support in Sayward.

Rusch, the department’s Administrative Assistant, has been a cornerstone of local emergency services for two decades. In addition to managing the department’s administrative needs, she leads the First Responder program, demonstrating her hands-on role in preparedness and frontline care.

Fire Chief Frank Morgan commended her leadership and lasting influence on the department.

“Two decades of serving this community with courage, compassion, and a genuine love for what you do. You’ve given so much of yourself to this department, and we are honoured to celebrate this milestone with you,” he said, adding with a smile, “While I may be the Fire Chief, we all know Pat is the boss.”

Rusch’s contributions extend well beyond her current role. She has served as an Ambulance Unit Chief, volunteered with Emergency Support Services, sat on the Sayward Health Society board, and continues to train responders as a Red Cross Professional Responder Instructor Trainer. Her work has strengthened emergency response capacity across multiple organizations.

Colleagues describe her as the steady force behind the department. Shaun Koopman, Manager of Emergency Services for the Strathcona Regional District, highlighted her reliability and work ethic.

“Whether day or night, rain or shine, you’ll find Pat at one of the fire halls with her nose to the grindstone. I truly believe Pat is the example we should all try to emulate,” he said.

Sayward Volunteer Fire & Rescue provides fire protection, rescue services, and first responder support to the Village of Sayward and the surrounding Sayward Valley under Strathcona Regional District Bylaw No. 588.

Officials note that Rusch’s 20-year milestone underscores the essential role long-serving staff and volunteers play in maintaining dependable emergency services in small communities. Her broad experience and deep institutional knowledge continue to strengthen connections between fire services, health supports, and emergency preparedness efforts.

Her recognition also highlights the value of seasoned personnel in rural emergency response, where continuity and mentorship are vital. Leaders say Rusch remains a guiding presence as the department evolves to meet changing community needs.

The Strathcona Regional District and Sayward Volunteer Fire & Rescue expressed their gratitude for her decades of service, noting that her influence continues to shape both daily operations and the department’s future direction.