Welcome to summer everyone!

    My name is Ella Toles and I’d like to introduce myself as the Cypress Hills-Grasslands Destination Area summer student! I am thrilled to have this platform to share my love of the hidden treasures here in the prairies. You will mostly see myself working in the southwest Saskatchewan and eastern Alberta area this summer. As a born and raised citizen of Swift Current I am eager to share what I already love about this area, as well as explore new opportunities!

    As for a small introduction about myself, you may also know me as ‘Miss Koozie’ on the roller derby track. My family and I have been involved in the sport of roller derby since I was five, in 2010. That’s ¾ of my life! During my derby career I’ve played for the Swift Current Ra Ra Riots and Redneck Betties, Saskatoon’s Mindfox, Red Deer’s NF Bombs, Team Sask, and even Team Canada’s Junior Team! (We were awarded with bronze at World Champs by the way) If you see me out and about filming on my roller skates this summer don’t be afraid to say hello!

( Derby photos by Fatal Fantasy Photography)

    My family and I have a long standing relationship with Cypress Hills. My grandparents, uncle, dad, and myself are all Camp Shagabec alumni. The Hills hold a special spot in all of our hearts, spawning many memories and stories we love to share. Just watch out for tree squeaks, my grandpa’s imaginary tree monsters he made up to scare poor campers back in the day!

   I am so grateful to be granted this position this summer, to work with some amazing people and share incredible opportunities with you all. If you see me running (or skating) about this summer, don't be a stranger and come and say hello. I’ll see you all out there!