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SASKATOONEXPRESS - October 31-November 6, 2016 - Page 1
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Volume 14, Issue 42, Week of October 31, 2016
Saskatoonʼs REAL Community Newspaper
Merlis Belsher
Performs historic act of philanthropy
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Merlis Belsher donated $12.25 million toward the construction of a $41.5-million ice facility at the U of S. (Photo by David Stobbe)
hen there is a deserving community project in the works, Saskatoon philanthropist Merlis Belsher is usually quick to act. That’s what happened when Belsher was approached to become a donor for the construction of a $41.5-million ice facility which will go up at the University of Saskatchewan’s College Quarter, not far from Griffiths Stadium, the SaskaJW103103 James toon Field House and the Physi-
NED POWERS People
cal Activity Complex (PAC). Belsher is contributing $12.25 million to the facility, which will be known as Merlis Belsher Place and will likely open during the fall of 2018. His gift is the largest from an alumnus or individual in the university’s history. “I met with Don Gorsalitz and Kent Hartshorn in September 2015, and I knew there was a need to replace Rutherford Rink which had been in existence since 1929,” said Belsher.
“I asked some questions, they gave me answers and I offered a couple of suggestions which they seemed to like. Within a month, I made a financial commitment. It is the university where degrees in commerce and law helped me in my business enterprises. “It is my community and I was sold when I noted the university included a second ice facility, adjacent to the Huskie arena. That was the equivalent of scoring a golden goal in my opinion. I was deeply involved in Saskatoon minor hockey for many years and they will become an immediate benefactor of this community rink.”
Belsher was simply following a strong belief he has held for years. “There’s an old saying: You come into this world with nothing and you leave with nothing. In between, you are defined by what you do.” Belsher is a doer of immense style and class. He remembers his roots, growing up in McCord, a south Saskatchewan community named after his grandparents. He recognizes the contributions of his teachers, from the first days of school through 23 consecutive years in education. (Continued on page 6)
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