Canora Courier 2022-12-22

Community support pushes toy drive beyond expectations

With an ambitious goal of $3,500 in donations, there was probably some doubt in the minds of Yuletide Toy Drive organizers as to whether the challenge of rapid inflation in recent months would prevent Canora and area residents from supporting this popular holiday season tradition as they had in the past.

But residents showed the true spirit of Christmas, blowing past the goal with time to spare and reaching a final total of $5,298.

Over and above that figure, The Red Apple Store gave back a total of $795 for additional toy purchases.

Jocelyne Weinbender, spokesperson, expressed her appreciation for the support.

“The community is fabulous, the support is just great, especially now with things being tougher and everything getting more expensive,” said Weinbender. “Maybe people are inspired by what they’re seeing in the world today, especially with all the horrible things in the news. They want to spread a bit of joy and make someone’s life easier.”

Weinbender reported that there were plenty of volunteers of all ages to help make sure everything ran smoothly on Fill the Sleigh Day at the

Red Apple on Dec. 3, a central event in the success of the Yuletide Toy Drive.

“It was a great turnout of people coming in to donate on a cold day,” she said.

“The crew from Canora Ambulance Care was there to volunteer, Red Apple employees helped out, and we had a number of young volunteers to take donations and help in other ways as well.”

Volunteers who gave of their time included: Alyssa Lukey, Aubrey Monette, Chance Weinbender, Daylia and Zennia Lukey, Claire Elliott, Jax McLeod, Lucas Thompson and Jayden

Cpl. Mike Rosset of the Canora RCMP detachment stopped at Filling the Gap Food Bank in Canora to help with Christmas hamper deliveries on Dec. 15. Rosset said he had helped out at food banks in other communities where he has worked, and was eager to serve the community in a similar way in Canora.

The success of Fill the Sleigh Day on Dec. 3 at the Red Apple Store was greatly aided by the work of young volunteers. Accepting donations, from left, were: Aubrey Monette, Chance Weinbender, Jax McLeod and Daylia Lukey.

Antler numbers down, but young hunters continue to make impact

At the River Ridge Fish and Game antler measuring night on Dec. 11, a total of 24 sets of antlers were submitted for measuring, down from 31 the previous year, according to Kathy Thomas, River Ridge president. Held at the Canora Golf Course Activity

Centre, the submissions included: 14 whitetailed deer, four mule deer, three elk, two moose and one bear.

“Five of the antlers measured were brought in by junior hunters, which is a great sign for the future,” said Thomas.

“The antler quality was once again up noticeable from previous years.”

The antlers were measured by Floyd Hendrickson of Margo, a certified Henry Kelsey measurer, with assistance from Kate Lockert.

Results from the antler measuring will be made public at the River Ridge annual banquet and awards night on March 4 at Rainbow Hall. The gun show is scheduled for June 9 and 10 at the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre.

Super League curling action moves to Manitoba

Week 5 of Duck Mountain Super League curling action took place in Benito, Man. last week, according to a release from Glen Becenko of Kamsack.

“The club just got the ice in a few days before and the surface

was great, good job,” reported Becenko.

Swan Valley Chriropractic keep its unbeaten streak alive with a win over Challoner Farms 6 to 3. W.F Shcnieder and Sons extended its win streak with a

lop-sided win over Pattison Ag 10 to 2. NCC Farms also stayed in the win column in a low-scoring game, upending last year’s winner, Swan Valley Properties 5 to 3. In the final game in Benito, Pioneer Hybrid easily defeated

Hub International 7 to 3.

“Thanks to all the sponsors of the teams to help keep this league going and providing a little funding for the teams to compete for,” said Becenko. “One final note, a big thanks to the ice makers at

the clubs and the workers who provide the teams with beverages and good food when they get off the ice.”

The last draw to be played before Christmas, was slated for Norquay.

Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty’s Christmas message

Hello! Tansi!

During this most wonderful time of the year we focus on reaching out to family, friends and neighbours, and caring for those in need. Giving back to our communities reflects the true spirit of the season.

We may never see a more extraordinary example of service than that of our late Queen. In February, Queen Elizabeth II became the first British and Canadian monarch to serve 70 years as sovereign.

In Saskatchewan, we are commemorating her remarkable reign with the awarding of Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medals. It has been my privilege to present many of these medals to people in recognition of outstanding contributions to the betterment of our province. Acknowledging people who help others is one of the most fulfilling duties of my role as Lieutenant Governor.

I extend my sincere

gratitude to everyone who gives of their time and talents to enrich our communities. In Saskatchewan, we are rich when it comes to kind-hearted volunteers.

I also want to thank everyone serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, police and fire services, first responders, health care professionals, educators and front-line workers for going beyond the call of duty.

In addition, I am deeply grateful for the guidance

I received from elders, knowledge keepers, survivors and their families in the creation of the Saskatchewan Residential School Memorial. On June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day, the memorial was dedicated on the grounds of Government House in Regina. We hope that it will be a reflective place where everyone can come to learn and heal.

My wife Donna and I were pleased to host an event on Sept, 30,

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, around the Memorial with hundreds of school children in attendance.

Over the last few months, we have experienced a renewal of special events that had been postponed due to the pandemic. We were thrilled to present Canada Day celebrations at Government House for the first time during my term. With thousands of guests, we enjoyed a delightful afternoon filled with multicultural entertainment and fun for all ages.

Donna and I are also excited to invite you back to Government House for a New Years Levee. Please join us Jan. 1 from 1-4 p.m. to welcome in 2023 and say goodbye to 2022 - which has been a momentous year.

In September, as Canadians mourned the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, we also welcomed King Charles as our new monarch.

I am happy to bring you season’s greetings on behalf of His Majesty, King Charles the Third, King of Canada. And, on behalf of my family and staff, I wish you happy holidays. And I would like to share these season’s greetings with you in my first language, which is Woodland Cree.

Nitha ikwa Donna ni-cawasimisinanak, nosisiminanak.

Nipakosithitinan kahkithaw

Kita mitho makosikisikanisik

ekwa kita mitho ocimikisikansik.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Floyd Hendrickson of Margo was assisted by Kate Lockert at the annual antler measuring for the River Ridge branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation held on Dec. 11 at the Canora Golf Course Activity Centre.

Kate Lockart, assisted by daughter Ashley, entered the antler measuring scores on the computer.

String of thefts leads to seizure of rototiller

BY SGT. DEREK FRIESEN Canora RCMP Detachment

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP responded to 35 calls from Dec. 8 to Dec. 15, some of which included: one 911 Act call, one abandoned vehicle, one animal call, three assaults, two assaults with a weapon, one false alarm, two failures to comply with orders, one fraud, two harassing communications, two lost/found items, one Mental Health Act call, three mischiefs, one theft, seven traffic offenses, four traffic collisions, two Trespass Act calls, and one other federal call.

Stolen rototiller seized

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP have investigated a

number of complaints involving the theft of wood burning stoves and other items in the Canora area.

As a result of the subsequent investigations, on Dec. 9, the Canora/Sturgis RCMP with assistance from the Yorkton General Investigation Section, executed a search warrant on a property in Stenen. During the search, officers seized a rototiller that had been reported stolen in Canora. RCMP have charged a 40-year-old male, a resident of Stenen, with possession of stolen property under $5,000.

Drug seizure

On Dec. 9, the Canora/ Sturgis RCMP were dispatched to a residence in Preeceville to seize

drugs that were found in a car. The drugs were tested and found to be amphetamines.

Speeder charged

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP stopped a vehicle on Highway No. 5 east of Canora on Dec. 11 for speeding. The driver did not have a valid driver’s licence and was found to be breaching his release order for failing comply with a curfew condition. The male was arrested and charged.

Screaming not such a good idea

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP were dispatched to a disturbance outside a residence in Canora on Dec. 12. Police attended and located a male

screaming outside the residence. After speaking with the complainant, the male was arrested for assault. Police continue to investigate.

Unusual weapon

On Dec, 13, the Canora/ Sturgis RCMP were dispatched to a residence for a report of an assault. Police attended the residence and learned the victim was hit multiple times with a sex toy. An intoxicated male was arrested and charged with assault with a weapon.

Abandoned vehicle

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP received a report on Dec. 13 of an abandoned vehicle on Highway No. 5 near Canora. The vehicle was

towed as it was a road hazard.

Moose damage

On Dec. 14, the Canora/ Sturgis RCMP attended a single vehicle collision involving two moose and an SUV by Mikado on Highway No. 5. The driver of the SUV went to hospital with minor injuries.

Snow dispute

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP were dispatched on Dec. 15, when it was reported that a male, holding a shovel, jumped in front of a quad pushing snow in a parking lot. After police departed the scene, the same male called to report he was now the one being threatened and was unhappy how snow was being

pushed on his side of the ditch. Police returned to the parking lot and mediated the dispute.

Report tips and information

If you have any information about these or any other crimes, please contact the Canora RCMP at 306-563-4700, or you can also report anonymously via Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com. Call the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Turn In Poachers & Polluters (TIPP) Line, tollfree, at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 from a SaskTel cellphone (phone calls only, no text messages).

Premier Scott Moe’s Christmas message

Christmas is almost here, and I think we’re all excited to be celebrating with family and friends.

Over the last few years, I believe most of us have an increased appreciation for what is truly important in life. We make the most out of every opportunity we have to spend time with those that we love.

For some of you, this will be your first Christmas in Saskatchewan. Whether you have arrived from Ukraine, Pakistan, Africa, or the Philippines, or somewhere else in the world, I want to welcome you to Saskatchewan. We are grateful that you have chosen to make this province your home and we know that you

will make Saskatchewan stronger.

The message of Christmas gives us hope for a bright future - of new beginnings with peace and goodwill for all.

Such a timeless story of God’s love revealed to mankind. A child, born to a humble young woman. Not in a palace, but in a stable on the backside

of an inn. A little child wrapped up in swaddling clothes, who came into the world to lift up the downcast, to rejoice with those rejoicing, to mourn and comfort those who are suffering. Truly He taught us to love one another.

His law is love, and his gospel is peace. And we are so fortunate in Saskatchewan.

Carla Beck’s Christmas message

Hi, I’m Carla Beck, and I have to tell you, I love this time of year.

The season’s themes of love, peace and goodwill towards others are universal. More than that, they’re the values that I learned growing up on the farm; values we still see right across our beautiful province.

We look out for our neighbours, reach out and care for the most vulnerable and comfort those who may be sick or struggling. Acts of kindness like these happen every day in Saskatchewan. The holiday season is a reminder to all of us to keep these values front and centre, to share a little more

generously, and to spread cheer a little more wisely.

For me, Christmas also means that everyone in my family carves out some time to spend together. We still go down to my parent’s place, and every year, we get out for a hike after the turkey meal and get in a family skate at the Lang rink.

Now between ball games, dance recitals, hockey and, of course, school and work, real quality time with the full extended family happens less often these days, and it’s even more precious. Because I know, not everyone is so lucky.

The last couple years have been tough on all

of us in many ways, and some of us have been hit harder than others. For some, that may mean not being able to afford all the trimmings this year, or the uncertainty of a lost job, or maybe worrying about how you’ll pay the bills next month.

Maybe there is the fear of illness in the family, or the real sadness of missing a loved one who is no longer there around the holiday table.

If you’re going through a tough time like this, if the joy of the season isn’t present in your home, I hope that the spirit of hope is, and that the love and generosity of your neighbours finds you, and

please, don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Because ultimately, hope, generosity, and love is what we’re all celebrating this season, and it’s what we should strive for… every day.

So, no matter where you live, who is at your table, and regardless of your customs. Wherever you may be gathering and worshipping. Whether your traditions run deep in this prairie soil or you’re planning your very first Saskatchewan holiday, on behalf of myself, my family, and the Saskatchewan New Democrats Merry Christmas, and best wishes in 2023

We are blessed to have so much of what the world needs today.

But even with all of the riches that we possess, the most precious gifts are those that can’t be bought in a store or wrapped and placed under a tree. Our families, our friends and the freedom we have to enjoy life together in peace.

In the weeks ahead,

some of us will be travelling for the holidays, some of us will be celebrating at home.

Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, the hearts of myself and my wife Krista are with you and hoping the best for you and those that you love.

Merry Christmas Saskatchewan, and a very blessed New Year!

The Canora Keenage Society would like to thank the following:

All businesses who donated gifts so generously to our Christmas Party

The entertainment by Troy McNaughton

Wongs Cafe for our delicious supper

The workers behind the scenes, decorations, gathering gifts, kitchen clean up, etc

Last but not least we thank everyone that attended

Chloe Doogan Age 11 - Canora

Canora Cobras

#19 Favourite Hockey Team: Las Vegas Golden Knights

Ashton Strelioff

Canora Cobras

#15 Favourite Hockey Team: Calgary Flames

Ryea Harper

Favourite Hockey Team: Edmonton Oilers

A decade ago

Though there were fewer sets of antlers brought in for measuring, the quality was excellent, said Damon Paley following the annual horn measuring for the River Ridge branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation. Floyd Hendrickson was in charge of the measuring.

Taras Korol of Canora received an award of merit for exemplary service to the Assiniboine Chapter of the Superannuated Teachers Association. Making the presentation was Bob Wuschenny, provincial president.

The Sunrise Health Region board reported that 73 nurses had been recruited by the health region, making it possible to reinstate eight beds previously unavailable due to a shortage of nurses at Yorkton Regional Health Centre.

The Canora Cougars junior boys basketball team went undefeated to take first place in a five-team tournament held in Canora, reported Coach Kim Eiteneier. Other teams taking part in the tournament were from: Melville, Yorkton, Kamsack and Preeceville.

Bob Kolodziejski of Canora was looking forward to playing lead for the host team in the 50th annual TransCanada Telephone Employees Curling Association national championship in Regina. Kolodziejski’s teammates were: John Krasowski (second), Stan Rowe (third) and Lorne Frulin (skip).

After going undefeated in three games during the weekend tournament in December, the Preeceville Midget Pats won the A side of the Saskatoon Knights Tournament, said Darrell Dutchak , manager. The first game was a 7-2 win over the Regina Wild, followed by a decisive 9-0 victory over the Saskatoon Adrenaline Aces. The Pats then won the A final by 5-2 over the Tisdale Ramblers.

Food or fuel: Should crops feed people and not cars? The Ag Scene

When you write about agriculture, the growing interest in canola as a biofuels source is a good news story.

Anything which expands a market for a crop is good for the producer of that crop, and on the Canadian Prairies and particularly in Saskatchewan, added demand for canola is going to be generally applauded.

The crop is already the major income generator on most farms, and with huge prices already in 2022 and even the hint of adding demand has to have producers near giddy with expectation.

And in a world always hungry to consume energy, the biofuel sector is one that holds the promise of a renewable source of fuel that actually has less atmospheric impact when consumed.

CALVIN DANIELS

Now big oil companies are no doubt less enamoured by biofuels, but realistically the biofuels sector will need to grow significantly before it really impacts fossil fuel profits.

So when you read a story suggesting canola demand by the biofuels sector is likely to grow, it seems like great news indeed.

But, wrapped up in such news is a question that should at least be asked, and that is if we want to see increasing acres of farmland growing crops to feed cars instead of people?

The world hit eight billion occupants this

year, and that is by any measure a lot of mouths to feed.

At this point, the world’s farmers have been up to the task.

Yes, there are people going hungry, and some facing starvation at times, but those are issues of wealth to buy food, transportation problems to get food where it is needed, and politics and war. The food, if it was distributed, exists to feed people.

But, for how long?

There is a finite amount of arable land on which food can be grown, and it is under pressure by urban sprawl, desertification,

salinization and other factors.

And that is without even admitting that crop production will be pressured moving forward by weather change.

Less land in production, or land impacted so it produces less, and food production is impacted.

On the other side of the equation is population. It continues to grow, and there aren’t even serious hints that the world is willing to discuss how that might be controlled.

The combo of pressure on farmland and population growth is not a good one.

So, is crop production for fuel, or anything which doesn’t ultimately feed people a good idea, even if it is a market for farmers?

That is a question that the world will need to answer one day.

Plants make the holiday season special in many ways

Merry Christmas, gardeners!

It seems the time has gone so quickly, the winter solstice was on Dec. 21, so that means the days will start to get longer. The shortest day and the longest night of the year are behind us, so really, can gardening season be far behind? Aren’t we gardeners an optimistic lot?

Ancient pagan symbolism believed that bringing evergreens indoors in winter, the darkest time of the year, kept evil spirits away. As time passed, these customs faded into Christian celebrations, resulting in evergreen boughs being part of traditional decorations.

Mistletoe has a long horticultural history. The Romans believed that it had magical powers. It’s a parasite plant, growing on other trees such as poplar and oak, and varieties can be found all over the world. Hanging mistletoe was originally done to encourage a new spring, and of course young men loved the mistletoe because in strict Victorian times, it was accepted to steal a kiss under the mistletoe. So likely at any gathering, the young men would be bunched around the mistletoe, like chicks under a heat lamp, waiting for the young ladies to stroll by.

The Christmas tree as we know it was made popular by Prince Albert. In 1841, Prince Albert, following the tradition of his German homeland, set up a Christmas

The Garden Grapevine

DEBBIE HAYWARD

tree at Windsor Castle. Of course, this set off a chain reaction of everyone wanting to do the same thing, and by the 1880s there were so many people wanting trees that nurseries had to work hard to accommodate the demand. Apparently, Trafalgar Square in London displays a Norwegian fir, a gift from the city of Oslo to say thank you to the British people for their help in the Second World War.

Holly has been full of symbolism going back to the Celts, who held it in high esteem because of its ability to be green all year. The pointy leaves were believed to give protection from evil spirits. Holly was also brought into those long-ago homes because people believed it gave shelter to fairies in the cold winter months. The ancient Romans used holly to honour Saturn, god of agriculture.

Later, in Christian folklore, the holly came to represent Jesus’ crown of thorns. If you’ve ever heard the carol The Holly and the Ivy, the words are about this.

Things like holly and mistletoe are not so familiar to us here, but here’s something we know about on the prairies: on Christmas Eve, at a traditional Ukrainian meal, hay is spread under the table and under the tablecloth to remind us that Christ was born in a manger. A sheaf of wheat stalks, the “didukh,” symbolizes the ancestors of the family, and also speaks of the importance of the crops for survival and sustenance. And of course, wheat, “kutia,” is a prominent part of the Christmas Eve meal. Who knew that horticulture plays such a prominent part of our Christmas holiday traditions?

Since the beginning of time, plants have been vital for survival: for food, shelter, fuel, clothing, and of course, for beauty and their aesthetic gifts. And as we see, they have become part of our celebrations, as well.

Till next time, enjoy your holiday season, have a mug of hot chocolate and browse through the new seed catalogues, and maybe plant an amaryllis or some paperwhites to have some beautiful blooms in those long, wintery weeks ahead.

Merry Christmas wishes to you from my husband Keith and me. May every blessing of the season be yours.

Canadian carrier WestJet provided joy for 250 passengers on a flight from Halifax to Calgary. They posted a digital Santa Claus in an airport and asked passengers what they wanted for Christmas.

Christ in Christmas is Joy to the World Pause for Reflection

Most passengers requested basic items like mugs and sweaters. Others asked for more expensive gifts. It was difficult, but while passengers flew, members of WestJet purchased all items the passengers requested. When they landed, every single person received their Christmas gift.

What a simple way to bring Christmas joy or Christ’s joy to others. I failed to do that earlier this month while shopping in Superstore. I met a lady in the aisle who was shopping for six growing boys. She looked stressed. I empathised but failed to do anything substantial.

I was better prepared on my next visit to Superstore. An older (than me) lady was looking for a shorter cashier line-up. I offered her the place ahead of my cart. As we waited, I wished her a Merry Christmas and we chatted.

It was St. Nicholas Day, and I shared how in the 1950s one tradition had Santa sending his letters to the Christ Child. Children then received a gift from the Christ Child. She enjoyed a similar tradition. Sharing our joy helps put Christ into Christmas.

KEN ROLHEISER www.kenrolheiser.com

Joy to the World is the message proclaimed by an angel in Bethlehem. “I bring you news of great joy, a joy to be shared by the whole people.” (Luke 2:10). And the heavenly angels echoed the joy with: ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to men [all] who enjoy his favour.”

“Joy by definition is the gladness, the satisfaction that appears when our will possesses something which leads to our genuine happiness. Joy is the response of the human heart to what it perceives as an authentic promise of life. And Christ’s presence is just that,” says Fr. Peter John Cameron.

In This is Satan’s only real enemy: Take it seriously Cameron says the devil manipulates us with fear. Fear is only possible because (or when) we have lost the joy

of the promise that anchors us as Christians.

“The source of Christian joy,” wrote Pope Benedict XVI, “is the certainty of being loved by God, loved personally by our Creator, by the One who loves each one of us with a passionate and faithful love, a love greater than our infidelities and sins, a love which forgives.” Wow!

Jesus has overcome blindness, lameness, leprosy, deafness, and death itself, giving us the joy of Hope. “If there is an answer to death, it will make genuine joy possible.” (J. Ratzinger)

Joy can exist even in our sadness and pain. Keeping our eyes fixed on Advent’s promise can help us avoid fear, the devil’s greatest weapon. From the darkness of his Nazi prison cell Jesuit Fr. Alfred Delp proclaimed his message of hope on smuggled slips of paper:

“The promises have turned us around and opened life out into the infinite. Even lamentation retains the song of these promises, and distress their sound, and loneliness their confidence,” Delp wrote.

Our joyless moments in the weeks of our daily lives do not normally call for heroic measures. Our daily blessings are almost an embarrassment compared to the sufferings of others.

“Shout for joy to the world, all the earth, because our Lord is King,” says Psalm 98:4-6.

CCS students and staff enjoying Christmas activities

BRANDON HARDER CSS REPORTER

The Canora Composite High School has been getting into the Christmas spirit recently. This year the school brought back old traditions and introduced some new activities as well.

Due to Christmas Day falling on a Sunday this year, the school’s Student Representative Council (SRC) devised “12 Days of Christmas” activities in the lead up to the Christmas holidays. The 12 days of fun began on Dec. 6 with Trivia Tuesday. The following Wednesday was a Christmas colour spirit day where students dressed up in red and green. Thursday saw the students participate in a Christmas Kahoot, which is a trivia game that players can play with friends. Other days saw students compete in more trivia games, guess the amount of candy canes, a pajama day, a formal day, and even a school-wide bingo match.

This year’s Christmas festivities included an individual competition in which, if a student scored a point by participating, guessing a correct answer, or winning a certain game, they would receive a golden ticket with their name on it. The tickets

were to go into a draw for a prize to be revealed at the Christmas assembly on Dec. 21.

Also making a return this year is the school’s Christmas dinner, which was put into COVID-19 restriction mode for the past two years. The dinner menu will include turkey, perogies, sausage, corn and many more Christmas favourites being served.

The school is looking back at past Christmas activities created by the SRC. One big activity the school has hosted almost every year over the past five years is the Gingerbread House competition, which sees homerooms creating massive decorative gingerbread houses. The houses were to be judged by teachers of the opposite side of the school. Another past activity was a door poster contest, where students created a massive Christmas poster. Unfortunately, the door poster contest will never return due to the paper being a fire hazard.

One of the most memorable Christmas activities was in 2013 when the SRC made a lip dub to the popular song, What Does The Fox Say? for the school’s 2013 Christmas Assembly. The school has done a bunch of

fantastic Christmas activities over the years and the fun is expected to continue in the future.

Global Stories of the Week

At least five people are dead after a mass shooting in Vaughan, Ont. It happened on the evening of Dec. 18. York Regional Police responded to reports of a woman being shot in the head around 9 p.m. local time. When police arrived, they discovered a much worse tragedy. At least five people were found with fatal gunshot wounds. According to CP24 reporter Beatrice Vaisman, a sixth person was taken to a local hospital in serious condition. The 73-year-old suspect was shot dead by police according to a York Regional Police officer. Mass shootings in Canada are extremely rare compared to America’s gun epidemic. Former Ontario Provincial Police commissioner and CTV News Public Safety analyst Chris Lewis stated in an interview with Marcia MacMillan, “we’ve had bigger shootings in Canada that were much more shocking, but this is the first one I can recall in a big building like that in the GTA with multiple victims.” The mayor of Vaughan reassured residents in a press conference that there was no further threat

to the public.

Saskatchewan residents are getting excited to see a man from Saskatoon on the popular CBS reality show Survivor. The male contestant goes by the name of Kane Fritzler. He is studying law at the University of Saskatchewan. According to an Inside Survivor article, Fritzler is in his twenties, and is among 18 contestants who were chosen to be on the show’s 44th season. Kane is only the seventh Canadian contestant to make an appearance on the show since the CBS reality television staple first starred a Canadian in Survivor: Island Of The Idols. Survivor

season 44 is set to premiere on March 1 , 2023 with a two-hour episode on CBS and Global.

COUGAR

CCS is looking back at fun Christmas activities created in the past, including making a lip sync to the popular song, What Does The Fox Say? for the schoolʼs 2013 Christmas Assembly.

Community support pushes toy drive beyond expectations

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Dergousoff.

Thanks to the support of donors, at press time a total of 38 children from 16 families were set to receive toys.

The majority of the

donations came from Canora and surrounding area, but support was also received from as far away as Saskatoon.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone,” said Weinbender “Also, we couldn’t have done this

without the volunteers, where it was during Fill the Sleigh Day, or getting everything together and wrapping toys, or the toy deliveries by ambulance crews.

“Merry Christmas to everyone, and stay safe.”

Shop local and win

Devan Tasa, the publisher of the Canora Courier, draws the winners from the Courier ʼs shop local contests. The winners were Kathie Gerrard of Canora and Jennifer Choboter of Buchanan.

Santa made time to visit the Red Apple Store during Fill the Sleigh Day, and spent time with youngsters, including Zayda Slowski and her mom Tamara.

Santa joined in and helped carry some of the many toy donations into the ambulance.

Once again this year, Canora and area residents showed their generosity through toy and cash donations.

Preeceville U18 Pats remain undefeated

The competition is getting increasingly tougher for the Preeceville Pats U18 team as they battle opponents who are sitting near the top on the league. The Moosomin Rangers were ranked second in the league but Preeceville did not

have any problems, dumping them with a 5-0 final score in a home game in Preeceville on Dec. 10.

Skylar Ryczak was the goalie in between the posts for the night.

Scoring for Preeceville were: Tomas Hauber

(three), Spencer Leech and Hunter Lamb. Assists were contributed by: Briel Beblow, Kaiden Masley, Mason Babiuk and Hudsyn Nelson.

Preeceville travelled to Balcarres on December 11 where they kept winning,

this time skating away with a 8-0 final score. Skylar Ryczak was once again in net for the shutout. Scoring for Preeceville were: Kaiden Masley, Jake Soltys, Briel Beblow, Hudsyn Nelson, Porter Wolkowski, Rhett Ludba and Brody

Shankowsky (two). Assists came from: Hudsyn Nelson, Briel Beblow, Tomas Hauber, and Kaiden Masley.

The two wins now have Preeceville sitting at a perfect record of seven straight victories to start the season in league play.

Goalie Skylar Ryczak has been instrumental in propelling the Preeceville Pats U18 hockey team to the top of the league with an undefeated record. Playing against Moosomin Rangers, from left, were: Bronson Heshka, Rhett Ludba, Hunter Lamb, Ryczak and Mason Babiuk.

Legion awards Canora students for artistic talents

Students at Canora Junior Elementary School were successful in the Remembrance Day contest held by the Canora branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. Lorri Dennis, Legion representative, presented the $100 first prize to Aliannah Herriges in the primary coloured poster division.

Keen Age Centre party celebrates Christmas and birthdays

Those who celebrated September and October birthdays, from left, were: (standing) Kim Grywacheski (standing); and (seated) Eugene Secondiak, Lil Martinuk, Linda Sissons, and Marge Shewchuk. Absent from the photo was Mary Homeniuk.

Jacob Prychak won third place in the primary coloured poster division and the $50 that goes with it. The Canora Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion expresses its appreciation to all the students from Canora and Invermay who participated.

Serving you in the communities of Buchanan, Canora, Preeceville & Sturgis www.gatewayco-op.crs

Tomas Hauber, left, and Dixon Paul teamed up to get a shot on net.

The Preeceville Pats U18 team remain undefeated when they shut out the Moosomin Rangers, currently second in the league, 5-0 on Dec. 10 in Preeceville.

Celebrating November and December birthdays at the Keen Age Centre in Canora on Dec. 11, from left, were: (standing) Leo and Bernice Rakochy, Pauline Gogal and Bill Gulka; and (seated) Carl Okrainetz, Lorin Martinuk, Mary Prokopetz and Sharon Chabun.

New girls hockey team perfect at Melville tournament

The Parkland Prairie Ice, a first-year U13 girls hockey team, was formed in time for the 2022/23 season to give area girls and district audiences the opportunity to enjoy girls hockey.

The team’s roster is filled out by girls from a number of area communities, including: Canora, Norquay, Sturgis, Kamsack, Preeceville and Yorkton.

The players enjoyed their first game action as a team in the best possible way; winning five straight games to capture first place at a tournament held in Melville Dec. 10-11.

The head coach is Nicole Korpusik of Norquay, who was a member of the first University of Regina Cougars female hockey team during her playing days.

The Melville tournament began on Saturday when the Ice hooked up with Parkland Fire, the host team, and skated away with a 6-3 win. Since it was their first game action as a team, Korpusik admits she wasn’t sure what to expect.

“My jaw hit the floor from the drop of the first puck, the leadership was incredible and the teamwork blew my mind,” said

Korpusik “Our passing was incredible and the girls took every opportunity to make plays and include each player on the team.”

In their first game together, the players showed a strong ability to handle adversity.

“When the Fire scored against us it wasn’t a hangyour-head moment, these girls would rally around each other and bounce back.”

Harper Danchilla and Avery Lammers of Yorkton led the offence with two goals each. Single markers came from Ryea Harper of Canora and Rowyn Johnson of Norquay.

The second game was later in the day against the Warman Bearcats, which was a dominant 9-0 shutout for the Ice and goalie Ty Northrop of Norquay.

“We had almost every player contribute on the scoresheet, whether it was through goals or assists. It was awesome to see,” marveled Korpusik.

Danchilla and Lammers once again contributed a total of four goals to the cause with two each. Tessica Mydonick of Canora and Morgan Olson of Sturgis each scored twice, while

Makayla Johnson of Preeceville contributed one goal.

The action started early on Sunday, with an 8:30 a.m. faceoff against the Warman Bengals.

“The girls played gritty which resulted in having to work a little harder and be disciplined because we spent some time in the penalty box that game,” reported Korpusik. “Those penalties were mostly the result of hard work, not unsportsmanlike play, so I’ll take it. We came out on top with a 5-1 win.”

For the third straight game, Avery Lammers scored a pair of goals. Singles came from Ryea Harper, Rowyn Johnson and Isabelle Smith of Yorkton.

The final round robin game was against the Hamiota Huskies from across the border in Manitoba. Based on the standings, the Ice players knew they had qualified for the final game before the puck was dropped.

“But this didn’t stop our girls from playing their hearts out. Again we had a great mix of numbers on the score sheet and came out

with a 7-2 win and an undefeated round robin record.”

Harper Danchilla scored four goals and Morgan Olson added a pair, with Avery Lammers rounding out the scoring.

Korpusik said they were given about an hour “to rest and fuel up” before hitting the ice for the championship final, pitted against the host Parkland Fire for the second time in the tournament. The final score was 4-1 for the Ice.

“We knew they’d come out flying. . This was their tournament and they would be hungry for a win. The Fire scored first but our girls responded quickly and the first period ended with both teams on the board with one each. Our girls were showing signs of fatigue and had to dig deep. The passes weren’t coming as easily and the shots weren’t finding the mesh as they had before. We fought through frustrations, blisters, sugar lows, headaches and fatigue. We supported each other and we persevered, we came away as champions with a 4-1 victory!”

Avery Lammers was the offensive leader in this game

with a pair of goals. Tessica Mydonick and Cassidy Wolkowski of Canora each found the net to provide the Ice with their margin of victory. Ty Northrop was the winning goalie for all five games, and made an offensive contribution as well with a pair of assists over the weekend.

“I couldn’t be more proud of these girls,” shared Korpusik. “Sticking together is easy when you’re fresh and winning but when you’re tired, hurting and frustrated your true colours as a player and a team come out. These girls stuck it out, never quit and supported each other through the adversity - that’s why they are the champs.”

Jackie Guidry, tournament organizer, was pleased to see the teams from the Parkland area in Saskatchewan and Manitoba “having good, competitive games” during the tournament.

“We need to continue to increase the awareness of female hockey all over Saskatchewan so girls can continue to build lifelong friendships and skills while playing with and against

other girls.”

Korpusik is quite impressed with the accomplishments of her players during their short time as a team, especially since they only had two practises together before the Melville tournament.

“Each of the girls on this team play on a house team in either Preeceville, Canora, Kamsack or Yorkton which means during the regular season we are competitors. This could make building a new team challenging. There are five different team schedules to try to work around in order to plan practices, so finding times that work for everyone and ice time that corresponded with open schedules was logistically challenging. Luckily, we have an incredible manager, Jaime Johnson, who has worked tirelessly to find opportunities for us. I am proud to say our players have bonded quickly both on and off the ice.”

The Ice now get to enjoy the Christmas break, before preparations begin in the New Year for a tournament in Portage la Prairie, Man. from Jan. 13-15.

Cobras fall short against elite team

The Canora Cobras made the trip to Langenburg on Dec. 17 for a game against the Warriors, who had won seven out of their first eight games as a new entry in the Sask East Hockey League this season. The Warriors showed they deserve to be up among the league’s top teams with a 7-2 victory.

The Cobras started fast, and were rewarded with a goal by captain Ryley Stefanyshyn of Canora less than three minutes into the first period, set up by Colby Jacob.

“We had a good start and played very well,” said Cobras Coach Darren Schwartz. “We had plenty of chances, and could have scored even more goals

in the first.”

The Warriors came back with a pair of goals, and led 2-1 after the first period. But the Cobras fought back, and Tanner Mak found the net to tie the game early in the second period, on an assist from Tyler Shankowsky of Norquay. Unfortunately, that was Canora’s last goal of the evening.

Langenburg took the lead for good with two goals later in the second, and then added three in the third to clinch the victory.

“Our guys battled hard and followed the game plan well,” said Schwartz. “We’re starting to show better discipline when it comes to staying out of

the penalty box, but Langenburg is a tough team to beat. They’ve got four very good players who are near the top of the league in scoring. We’re looking forward to playing them again when they come to Canora.”

The Warriors are scheduled to visit Canora for a rematch on Jan. 21.

The last game for the Cobras before the Christmas break is on Friday (Dec. 23) against the Ituna Avalanche at the Canora Civic Centre.

“I hope everyone comes out to cheer us on,” said Schwartz. “We’re a good team on home ice and we’re looking forward to getting that extra bit of energy from the fans.”

The Parkland Prairie Ice, a new U13 girls hockey team this season, won a tournament held in Melville on Dec. 10 and 11 thanks to five straight wins. From left, were: (standing) Bowdrie Northrop of Norquay (assistant coach), Tessica Mydonick of Canora, Jess Harper of Canora (assistant coach), Avery Masley of Sturgis (in front of Harper), Isabelle Smith of Yorkton, Chloe Doogan and Ryea Harper of Canora, Allie Babiuk of Sturgis, Makayla Johnson of Preeceville and Nicole Korpusik of Norquay (head coach); (kneeling) Camryn Kosokowsky of Kamsack, Cassidy Wolkowski of Canora, Rowyn Johnson of Norquay, Avery Lammers and Harper Danchilla of Norquay, Rylee Coleman and Morgan Olson of Sturgis; and (front) Ty Northrop of Norquay (goalie).

After scoring a goal during the Melville tournament, Prairie Parkland Ice players on the ice celebrated with teammates on the bench.

Invermay School news report

BY SAMANTHA LANDANGANON

November was quite an eventful month. Lots of snow was falling.

On Nov. 2, the grades 3-8 students traveled to Yorkton to attend the Grain Millers Harvest Showdown. The students learned about the different animals such as: horses, alpacas, cows, and so on. They were also taught how to make butter by shaking the milk until it became hardened.

A Remembrance Day service was held in the school gym on Nov. 9. After the service a special guest, Bombardier Ané Roodt from the Field Artillery Regiment, RCA showed the students a presentation about the remembrance of the lost soldiers.

After the Remembrance Day service, it was announced that one of the staff members will go back to being a substitute teacher after teaching kindergarten and grades 9 and 10 students. Chelsey Campbell taught the kindergarten students as she was covering for Brenda Carbno. Thank You Miss Campbell for your time teaching here in Invermay School.

Nearing the end of the cold month of November, there was a SRC Surfers versus Bikers Spirit Day. It was a very fun day for the students. At the end of the day, the SRC hosted a dance for everyone. During the dance, the teachers prepared a wellchoreographed dance and shocked the students with their dancing skills.

If we could have a lifetime wish, And one dream that could come true; We would pray to God with all our hearts Just to see and speak to you. A thousand words won’t bring you back, We know because we’ve tried; And neither will a million tears, We know because we’ve cried. You’ve left behind our broken hearts, And precious memories too; But we’ve never wanted memories, We only wanted you. Your presence we miss, Your memory we treasure; Forgetting you never. Always in our thoughts Forever in our hearts

Love, Mom and Dad, Lindsey, Lori and Corey & their families.

In loving memory of

Andy Popoff

July 29, 1942 - Dec. 16, 2021

God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so He put his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me.”

With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away, and although we loved your dearly, we could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Margie, Dwayne, Sheryl & family

Always in our thoughts, Still loved, Still missed,

From children, grandchildren, great grandchildren.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF CHELSEA HADUBIAK

It was announced that Chelsey Campbell (right) will return to her role as a substitute teacher after teaching kindergarten and Grade 10 students for Brenda Carbno. Thanking Campbell for her work was Melissa Grona, principal.

A special fun day put on by the Invermay School SRC was the Surfers versus Bikers Spirit Day.

Invermay School students who attended the Grain Millers Showdown in Yorkton had the opportunity to get up close and personal with alpacas, and also see and learn about a number of other animals.

Grades 3-8 students attending the Grain Millers Showdown in Yorkton were taught how to make butter.

Representatives from a number of organizations were appreciated for attending the Invermay School Remembrance Day service and placing wreaths of remembrance. From left, were: Diana Enge (SCC) Melissa Grona (principal). Bdr. Ané Roodt (Canada), Bailey Maier (Red Cross) and Rachel Enge (SRC).

BURTON, John Stratford -19272022 John Stratford Burton was born in Humboldt Saskatchewan to Joseph W. and Marjorie Burton.

He is survived by his loving wife, Zenny; daughter Christine; son Mark (Marj Walsh); grandchildren Maxwell, Joel, and Ellen, and Poul and Rachel, all of Regina; and brother George (Gladys) of Humboldt, and their family. He was predeceased by his son James just 18 months ago. John and his two younger brothers, Harold, and George, were raised on the family farm at Burton Lake, named after his grandfather, who settled the area around the turn of the century, and attended Burton Lake school and the Humboldt High School. He broke his collarbone at age 12. John has always had a lean to the left - maybe that’s the cause! At the University of Saskatchewan, he completed degrees in economics and agricultural science, becoming an ‘agricultural economist’ before the degree or profession were established. He subsequently went to the London School of Economics in London, England where he survived the ‘killer smog’ of 1952, attended Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in 1953, and was a delegate to the Socialist International in Croatia. On his return to Canada, he worked on economic development under Tommy Shoyama in Premier Tommy Douglas’ office. John was Roman Catholic, and his values and politics were informed by his faith: to care for the widow and orphan, to welcome the stranger and refugee, to proclaim freedom to the captive, and good news to the poor. It was these values that led him to join the CCF and its successor, the NDP. John’s lifelong interest in politics emanated from a father and grandfather who were pioneers in the fight for social and economic justice. After running several electoral campaigns, he decided to take a run at public office himself, coming close to unseating then Liberal Minister of Agriculture, Jimmy Gardiner, in Melville, where he had recently moved to work. While in Melville, John was introduced to Zenny Wiwchar, a nurse, by her mother, at a CCF Valentine’s Day tea. Zenny was in town for only a week prior to leaving for a new job. John wasted no time: he took her out nearly every evening. By June, she was back in Melville, by August they were engaged, and in November of the same year they were married. Both were heavily involved in the early fight for Medicare. Two years and a baby later, John, Zenny and Christine moved to Regina where John worked with Premier Woodrow Lloyd, Allan Blakeney, Walter Smishek, and Grant Mitchell to bring Medicare to Saskatchewan and, ultimately, Canada. His son Mark was born at home because the doctors who came to Regina to work under Medicare were refused hospital privileges; the Leader Post, to its shame, forced the new parents to change the wording of the birth announcement to not mention Medicare. His interest in politics and commitment to fairness and human dignity never waned, and in 1968, he was elected Member of Parliament for Regina East, serving under Tommy Douglas and David Lewis. The entire family decamped to Ottawa, including youngest son, James, who turned three as they pulled into the nation’s capital. In 1973, he and the family returned to Regina, where he threw his mind, political savvy, and energy into projects for Premier Allan Blakeney. Most notable amongst these was the nationalization of the potash industry and creation of the Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan. Potash is one of our province’s greatest resources, and it was one of his greatest regrets that the Conservative government essentially gave it, and its profits and jobs away. He was so convinced of this that he returned to the University of Regina at age 75, where he received his Master’s (with distinction), and made it the subject of his master’s thesis, ultimately published as a book, Potash: The Story of Saskatchewan’s Pink Gold, widely recognised as the definitive work on Saskatchewan’s potash industry. Later, he parlayed his expertise into a five-year CIDA ‘expedition ‘ to Zambia, Africa, where he worked to strengthen the agriculture industry and local bureaucracy. While there, he and Zenny traveled widely, including trips to South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Egypt, and Israel; Australia, and New Zealand; China, Japan, and India. In retirement, he remained active in politics, bridge-playing, and his parish, including as a member of the Knights of Columbus for 77 years! He was immensely proud of his children, adored his grandchildren and loved his wife to his last day. Saskatchewan is a better place for his having lived, and poorer for his passing.

The family gratefully declines flowers, and instead asks that you work to make the world a better place.Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at St. Martin’s de Porres Parish, 4720 Castle Road, Regina, SK. For those unable to attend, a livestream may be viewed at https://youtu.be/q82ZYex7ZJ4.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 51 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details.

SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church Sat. Dec 24 Norquay, 2 p.m. Kamsack, 4 p.m. Canora, 8:30 pm Sun. Dec. 25 Rama 11 a.m. Preeceville 1 p.m. . Sun Jan 1 Kamsack 9 a.m. Canora 11 a.m. Norquay 1:15 p.m. . Fri. Jan 6 Canora 8 p.m. Sat. Jan 7 Preeceville 5 p.m. Sun Jan 8 Kamsack 9 a.m. Canora

MALANOWICH, John April 21, 1929 - December 11, 2022. John passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family on Sunday, December 11, 2022. As per his wishes there will be no funeral service. Interment will be held at Peaceful Pines Cemetery in Chitek Lake, SK at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Aime LaventureMourning Glory Funeral Services (306 978-5200.To share memoires of John or send condolences please visit www.mourningglory.ca

Ministry of Highways urges drivers to slow down around snowplows

REGINA — There were nearly 13 million visits to the Highway Hotline last year, so be sure to keep it in your travel plans.

“Snowplow operators are working to provide safe road conditions for you and your family and collisions remain a concern,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said in a release. “Snowplows can create white-out conditions, so

please drive with caution and slow down around snowplows that are operating.”

Snowplows use blue and amber lights when plowing, salting or sanding to increase visibility, heighten awareness as well as increase safety for all operators and the public.

The Highway Hotline is looking out for you and your family this holiday season, so when conditions change, road conditions are updated.

Be sure to download the new Highway Hotline App, which is available for free in the Google and Apple online stores. A recently updated hotline provides the same functionality people are used to, with a new look and some new features, continued the release.

The Highway Hotline uses terminology that will help you make informed decisions when planning travel.

There are four different types of conditions on the hotline:

• Seasonal driving, winter conditions exist, travel not recommended and closed;

• No specific issues exist with seasonal driving;

• In winter conditions, highlighted in yellow, icy or slippery sections will occur;

• Travel not recommended means road conditions are poor with reduced visibility, icy conditions and could even be blocked.

When a highway is closed, it is impassable and plows are no longer clearing until conditions improve.

The hotline is updated at least three times daily or when conditions change and warrant it.

The latest available road condition information can also be found by connecting online at: saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline or by calling 5-1-1. You can also follow the Highway Hotline on Twitter @ SKGovHwyHotline for alerts, while general information can be found on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ SaskatchewanHighway Hotline.

The Ministry of Highways operates more than 300 snowplows serving a provincial highway network of more than 26,000 kilometres.

Christmas celebrated with songs, treats and laughter at Kamsack

Songs, laughter and treats with Santa Claus were all part of the Kamsack Community Christmas Concert held at the Playhouse theatre Dec. 18.

With Jack Koreluik as emcee, the program, hosted by the Playhouse committee, began with the Kamsack Community Choir singing Prophets Knew and Glory on a Christmas Morn Kali Wyllychuk took to the stage to sing Last Christmas , and then Erika Sweeney of Canora, accompanying herself on guitar, performed So This is Christmas and I’ll be Home for Christmas

After an intermission when Quinn Bedore performed piano solos, Christine Day and Sarah Burrows sang Silent Night, Silver Bells and White

Christmas

On the stage next came Wyatt Hotomani, Bethany Walterson, Rose Jerome and Cage Clark to perform a short Nativity spoof, which combined the traditional story of Christmas with contemporary jokes.

The audience sang several carols as everyone waited for the arrival of Santa Claus. He arrived with bags of sweet goodies that were distributed to all those with sweet teeth, and posed for photographs.

Admission to the concert was a silver collection, and it included free coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. Draws were made for two prizes: a basket of goodies, and a Christmas wreath.

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From loving son Larry Babchishin

Performing a spoof on the Nativity as Joseph and Mary, a shepherd and wise “man,” from left, were: Cage Calrk, Rose Jerome, Wyatt Hotomani and Bethany Walterson.

Members of the Kamsack Community Choir, under the direction of Susan Bear and with accompaniment on piano by Deb Cottenie, from left, were: Rick Aikman, Kayode Bamigbola, Cathy Galye, Arlene Smorodin, Audrey Horkoff and Zennovia Duch.

Erika Sweeney of Canora accompanied herself on guitar as she sang two carols.

Quinn Bedore provided piano music during the intermission at the Christmas concert.

Christine Day, left, and Sarah Burrows sang several carols at the Christmas concert.

Kali Wyllychuk performed on stage at the Community Christmas Concert.

READ THE CANORA COURIER WEEKLY TO KEEP UP TO DATE ON LOCAL EVENTS.

Warm Warm Warm Warm Greetings Greetings Greetings

Here’s hoping you and yours enjoy a really cool holiday! We’re grateful for your warm reception this past year.

Management, families & staff

Penguin Refrigeration Ltd.

Canora - 563-5527

Yorkton - 782-1577

Canora and area residents enjoy Winter Lights Festival events and activities

The Winter Lights Festival is looked forward to each year by many Canora and area residents, and this year’s event in late November and early December provided something to bring a smile to the face of almost everyone, according to Brandi Zavislak, community development officer.

“This is a long-standing tradition for our community for years and years,” said Zavislak. “It makes us who we are- we go on a parade when it’s around minus 20 C and after COVID-19. We had huge attendance at most of the events, from the sleigh ride on Nov. 26 to the parade on Dec. 1.”

As is the case with any winter event in Canora that runs for nearly a week, there were wide variations in weather. Opening day on Nov. 26 brought near ideal conditions with sunshine and temperatures just below freezing for the sleigh ride, provided by Lloyd Smith of Pelly and his granddaughter Morgan Wallington.

“For the parade it was cold and the snow was falling, but people still came out to enjoy it, even

though a few participants pulled out due to the cold,” said Zavislak.

The parade was led by members of the Canora/Sturgis RCMP Detachment, followed by members of the Canora Fire Department. Other local groups and businesses that took part included: the Canora Tourism Fundraising Committee, Kee’s Taekwondo, the Canora squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Canora Ambulance Care, Canora Composite School, Crossroads Credit Union, and the Town of Canora, who had the honour of providing transportation of Santa and Mrs. Claus for the parade.

Zavislak said one of the main attractions of the Winter Lights Festival is the lighting display around Canora, which was started about eight years ago.

“We have become known for this. Once again this year, we had many people from other communities come to see the lights.”

Currently Canora has about 30 sponsored trees with lights displays.

“We couldn’t allow any

new tree sponsorship this year to put lights on, since the trees are growing and we have to repair and replace lights,” explained Zavislak. “That’s an ongoing thing, which we’ll continue to work on next year, along with adding more trees.”

Currently, the cost for

$1,000

Terry

Dennis MLA Canora - Pelly Constituency

My family and I would like to wish you a healthy and safe holiday season!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

sponsoring a tree ranges from around $600 to

depending on the size of the tree; with most

of the expense going to pay for the lights. After the parade, there was plenty to see and do

at King George Park. A raging bonfire provided almost instant warmth

Canora and area residents braved the cold and snow to enjoy Winter Lights Festival events, and watched with amazement as the fireworks display lit up the King George Park sky.

The massive snow hill at King George Park provided endless fun for youngsters, and a number of adults were also seen flying down the hill.

Canora and area residents enjoy Winter Lights Festival events and activities

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

for anyone with cold fingers and toes, along with a relaxed atmosphere for visiting. The large snow hill nearby gave youngsters an opportunity for sliding fun, as well as burning off some energy.

A few adults were even spotted heading up the snow hill to take a run.

“The fireworks display was once again very popular, a lot of people said they enjoyed it,” shared Zavislak.

For anyone who developed an appetite, or was just in need of a hot beverage, the Canora Tourism Fundraising Committee sold hot chocolate, hot dogs and hamburgers

after providing refreshments at other events throughout the Winter Lights Festival.

Interest was reported to be strong at many events during the week.

“Rainbow Hall was filled with vendors and customers for the Christmas market,” said Zavislak. “The Cookie

Walk and Frozen Perogy Sale at the United Church almost sold out.”

Skate with Santa, a popular event for many years, made its return to Canora after a twoyear absence due to the pandemic. This year’s event was attended by a number of local members of the Canora Cobras

senior hockey team, who expressed a desire to introduce themselves to the community and show appreciation to local families who support the club by attending games.

Zavislak said there were challenges involved in preparing for this year’s Winter Lights Festival.

“Planning and booking

events is the easy part.

Still, because of COVID many people are having a hard time finding volunteers. It’s still around a lot, and some people continue to be hesitant to spend time with large groups.

“Overall we had a very good week with tons of positive feedback.”

Merry Christmas

On Dec. 1, with the snow falling and the temperature around minus 20 C, the Canora Tourism Fundraising Committee did brisk business selling hot chocolate, hot dogs and hamburgers inside the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre. Committee members, from left, were: Terry Dennis, Annie Shilvert, Barbara Messenger, Denise Leslie, Morgan Homeniuk and Gladys Zavislak

In addition to providing a quick warmup for those feeling the effects of the cold evening, a raging bonfire also presented an opportunity to chat with friends.

Believing in Santa and the Christ Child

Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer began in 1939 with Robert May, a department ad writer. The Montgomery Ward department store commissioned May to create a story about an animal for a colouring book.

However, May’s story took a tragic turn. Bob’s wife Evelyn was dying of cancer. Bob was left with four-year-old Barbara and medical bills.

Barbara loved reindeer at the local zoo, so Bob chose Rudolph, a little reindeer with a shiny red nose. Even though the other reindeer teased Rudolph about how he was different from them, Rudolph dreamed of one day leading Santa’s sleigh.

Bob tested his ideas on Barbara and polished his story. Though Evelyn died before the story was finished, Rudolph became a symbol of hope for Bob and Barbara.

The story of Rudolph was published in 1939 and became an instant success. May received the rights to the story which went on to become a song and a movie. Bob May went down in history.

Believing in yourself in the hardest of times is a powerful lesson to us all. Believing in Christmas, in Santa and in the gift of the Christ Child is the lesson that has gone down in history.

Yes, Virginia, I believe in Christmas, in Santa

Pause for Reflection

KEN ROLHEISER www.kenrolheiser.com

and in the Christ Child. Christmas is an abbreviation for Christ’s Mass, which is a celebration of all that the baby Jesus came into the world to achieve. Christmas is a celebration of Christ’s love.

For many, Christmas is a time of sorrow, a time when they do not have money even for food. That is where we and organizations like the Salvation Army and Food

Banks come in. Advent is the time to prepare our hearts for Christ’s presence in them. Alms giving and fasting and sharing what we have with the less fortunate is Christian action.

Christmas is a time to celebrate family and love and all God’s goodness. Cards in the mail and turkey dinners and gifts are wonderful. Shouting “Merry Christmas!” to our neighbours in the

street is part of this natural joy that comes from a heart that is right with God.

The real story of Christmas unfolds with the Gospel of St. Luke 2:4-19. Jesus is born. Angels sing and shepherds see visions. Wise men come from afar to adore a baby in Bethlehem. And all our Christmas carols retell the story and recapture the joy.

Santa Claus, a short form of Sinter Klaas, from the Dutch stories popularized in 1809 by Washington Irving, became recognized in a New York minute. Irving referred to St. Nicholas as the patron of New York City in The History of New

A Christmas message to everyone

BY THOM CARNAHAN, Retired United Church pastor

I have been offered this opportunity to provide a message for this season of wonder, mystery and love. I offer this to everyone who would listen. It is generally recognized by most historians and countless

others that the birth and life of Jesus Christ was the greatest event in our human history. Jesus, through example and scripture, has given us a blueprint for positive behaviour and ultimately, our survival. These examples and teachings have created ongoing, huge positive effects

onto the entire world and that is what some of us celebrate at this timethe greatest gift of all.

The Russian supposed-Christian country is waging a continued senseless war on peace; this is evil greed for power without regard for human suffering on both sides. We can love

and pray for them and wonder which other Jesus teachings they have chosen to ignore. Send Putin a Christmas card with a positive message. Enough said.

We can volunteer our time, energy and resources to the betterment of our community; many organizations that perform useful

functions are in need of assistance. Our town has ongoing needs for people to assist council in carrying out its duties. Most service organizations would be happy to receive new people to help out. Donating to the food bank helps neighbours who are in great need at any time.

We should think

York.

St. Nicholas is said to have given away his wealth helping others. The most famous story has him providing a dowry to save three sisters who were being sold by their father. The love we share by the giving of gifts is reminiscent of St. Nicholas and every Santa since.

The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of this incredible act of love: “God loved the world so much that He gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not be lost but may have eternal life.” God sent his Son into the world not to condemn the world but to save it. (John 3:16-17).

about the needs of all our neighbours and help them whenever we can. Rake leaves, shovel snow, move garbage containers, pu sh their stuck vehicle, give them a smile when they look gloomy, lift them up when they fall, hug them when they hurt, visit lonely people, visit them

As

holidays, there will be no papers on: Thursday, Dec. 29 • Thursday, Jan. 5. The first paper of 2023 will be on Thursday, Jan. 12.

The Canora Courier office will be closed starting 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21 and will reopen at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 4.

PREECEVILLE

From William Koreluik (Kamsack Freelancer), Devan Tasa (Publisher, Kamsack Sales), Rocky Neufeld (Editor, Canora Reporter), Lori Bugera (Canora & Preeceville Sales), Bev Dyck (Front Desk), Liz Jacobsen (Preeceville Reporter) and Sid Frykas (Mail Room, not in photo).

we’ll be recharging over the

BY PASTOR MAVIS WATSON, Parkland Christian Centre

Isaiah 9:6-7 - “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”

government shall be upon his shoulder

“And the government shall be upon His shoulder.” What a thought as we consider the cost of living and the cost of purchasing all of those special items we love to have at this time of year. Goodies and gifts for our families and friends and maybe something extra special for the bus driver or the young man who shovels for us.

If we consider how hard it has become for everyday Canadians to make ends meet, what does the Bible mean when it says that the Promised Messiah would establish His Government on the earth? Because for most

of us, it appears pretty obvious that Jesus is not running the affairs of Ottawa … at least not when it comes to the cost of living for those of us here on the Prairies!

So if it doesn’t mean federal, provincial or municipal governance then what does it mean?

Well, it means that the governing that God has given us would come about through the sovereign virgin birth of a Miracle Child, the Christ Child. That the Child of Promise foretold and foreshadowed for thousands of years until that most Holy Night, the First Noel, would carry within Himself the hope

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

when feeling unwell, and provide them meals and dainties when they mourn. We can share a meal with people who live alone. In fact, we are all family, removed only six relations from each other and can behave accordingly.

When we encounter a stranger, rather than stare at them as some do, smile at them, introduce our self, ask them who they are and how we are

both contributing to our collective benefit. We can show them respect, include them, and accept them exactly as they are. Give them a warm welcome.

Peace is a necessity for our continued survival and we all need to work toward this. Love toward everyone is the major principle that we need to follow. Joy for the wonders of the season and our humanity needs to be shared with

everyone. Hope is for an improved future, which we need to work toward. We need never lose hope that there always is possibility for an improved world.

Let us inject large doses of good and kind actions into our daily relationships- kindness each and every day. When I arise in the morning I dare say that I will perform kindnesses today and I do it. This can and has changed the world!

of a world where the will of God and not the designs of corrupted man would dictate the lives of His creation.

It would be a government never seen before. A government not of the people, for the people or by the people. But a government established by the Divine, brought forth through the reconciliation of peace and in whose wisdom we would find true counsel; a government run by Almighty God Himself and created by a Father whose love for His creation is eternal and everlasting.

A government not as concerned with the cost of living (though what

matters to us will always matter to Him) but a government concerned with the price that would need to be paid for the life He designed us to live. A government that would never fail its citizens.

God’s governmental plan began in a garden, was realized on a Cross and will be completed when the skies finally part and He takes His place as Ruler Supreme. It was carried in the womb of a teenaged mother and her baby boy and we celebrate it each Christmas season whether we are aware of it or not.

So at this Christmas time I want to encourage

us all to look up! To ask for God’s help as we need it, for His wisdom to guide us and His peace to surround us. He is listening and He is able to carry us on those great big shoulders. He is coming again, you know, to govern this world and we can be assured that His leadership is built to last and will never fail.

Merry Christmas to all and the happiest of new years to you and yours. Stay in good spirits and be endowed with good health. May this holiday season and your homes be filled with laughter, love and the presence of Christ – He is the reason for the season.

We can do this. What we do in this world is important; may it always be good and respectful.

So I offer a sincere Merry Christmas,

Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays to all of us; the bulk of this message applies equally to all of us.

Our universal goal

can be to live and act with respect toward all things; would that it be so. All these things we can accomplish at every moment of the year.

At

Fifth Avenue Collection exhibit hosted by Cynthia Zatwarnitski of Canora, visitors

jewelry

someone.

Alice Landstad of Canora, right, was interested in the display by L & D Spring Rolls, where Lyle and Diane Ruf of Good Spirit Acres were satisfying hungry customers.

Maureen Babb of Buchanan was ready to meet the needs of Christmas shoppers with Tupperware and a variety of colourful Christmas ornaments.

Sheila Dmitruik stopped by to find out more about the display by Tricia Bedore of Canora. Bedore ʼs work can be personalized and customized, including T-shirts, giftware and Christmas ornaments.

Getting ready for Christmas is easy at the Canora Christmas Market

Helen Ogden of Buchanan shared some of the items she has made under the name A Stitch in Time, including: Christmas stockings, quilts, tote bags, tea towels and baby blankets.

The display by VK Creations, run by Vinissa Head of Yorkton, featured a wide range of customized items for the discerning shopper, including Christmas ornaments, bunny hugs, tumblers, and eye-catching signs.

Anyone in the mood for a

snack was wise to visit Papa R Mini Donuts, stocked by Robert Weaver of Springside, during the Rainbow Hall Christmas Market on Nov. 26

Jamie Wasyliw of Canora was looking after the display featuring Watkins and Pampered Chef items for a wide variety of household needs.

Getting ready for Christmas is easy at the Canora Christmas Market

Under the name A Bag for all Reasons, Alva Beauchamp of Kamsack displayed her handmade bags, which she makes out of pet screen and cotton fabric. She does custom orders if someone has a specific bag design in mind.

such as cookies in a jar, jam, and brownie mix, as well as the Magic Bagfilled with flax which, Wilson said, can be heated and used to soothe sore muscles.

Alissa Wilson of Canora featured goodies

Dandee Care Natural Products, hosted by Jocelyne St. Jacques of Buchanan, presented a wide variety of homegrown pr oducts made from organic dandelion; everything from salve to deodorant to soap to playdough, and even dandelion tea.

Those looking for unique Christmas gifts were well advised to visit Bonnie Bazarski of Canora and take a close look at her woodwork and many different Christmas arrangements.

Christmas greeting from Cathay Wagantall, MP

As your Member of Parliament for Yorkton – Melville, I wish you a Merry Christmas!

As I write this Christmas greeting, I am looking forward to returning home for special moments with nearby family before travelling to see our children and grandchildren over the holiday season.

It is hard to believe that this will be the eighth Christmas for me as your Member of Parliament. The past three years presented greater challenges for everyone hoping to reconnect over

the Christmas season with family and friends who live far away – or just felt far away, despite living down the block or across the farmyard.

What a blessing it is to re-engage in those moments with renewed thankfulness: going caroling at local care homes and hospitals to lift the hearts of those w ho are elderly or ill, as well as those who provide their care; buying, making, and wrapping gifts; cooking, baking, cleaning and decorating; waking Christmas morning to early risers that normally do not want to get out of

bed.

Perhaps you, like me, are acutely aware of the special traditions and experiences we tell ourselves we will never take for granted again. Perhaps you, like me, realize that saying, “I love you,” “I appreciate you,” perhaps even, “I’m sorry, please forgive me,” is the best gift one can provide to those who are yearning to hear those words couched in an 18-second hug. I am told that is the minimum time needed for a hug to have its maximum impact – truly!

Christmas is the perfect time for

2022 Christmas g reeting from Terry Dennis MLA

This holiday Christmas season is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, and how blessed we are to live in a place of peace.

It is also a time to think of the less fortunate, and to appreciate the

family and friends with whom we share our good fortune.

It is also a time to pray for the people of Ukraine during this senseless war. We welcome the thousands of displaced Ukrainians that have

made Saskatchewan their new home and celebrate their first Canadian Christmas. We must also pray for all the people that are struggling throughout the world.

On behalf of myself, Terry Dennis, my wife

Christmas g reeting from Mayor Mike Kwas

On behalf of myself and Council, we would like to wish you a holiday season full of love and happiness.

May this season bring peace for your family, a wealth of joy to your heart and charity to the people who need it the most. May you treasure the special

memories of passed loved ones and create new and everlasting memories with family and friends that are with you this holiday season.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year!

hope, reflection, and celebration. I hope your home will be filled with these things and more. For those who recognize the birth of Christ as the source of hope for the world, I share the following Words of Scripture that give me hope as I seek to do my best to represent all those who call Yorkton–Melville home:

“For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6-7

Lorri and my family, and my staff, I would like to

wish everyone peace, joy, happiness and love during this holiday season and all the best in the New Year.

Many local residents and a number of visitors took in Canora

festive lighting displays at King George Park and outside the Canora town hall during the Winter Lights Festival and throughout the Christmas season.

Skate with Santa fun returns to Canora

After an absence of several years during the pandemic, Skate with Santa returned to Canora on Nov. 27 with a popular new feature.

In a move that seemed to be quite popular, especially with the younger skaters, a number of players from the Canora Cobras senior hockey

team threw on their jerseys, and joined Santa and the other skaters on the ice for some preChristmas fun. No actual head count

was taken, but Aaron Herriges, director of leisure services, estimated there were as many as 60 to 70 people on the ice at one time.

“The Cobras were looking for ways to introduce themselves in the community,” said Herriges. “They took advantage of this

opportunity to spend some time with families, as many local families support their club by coming to the games.”

Of course, Skate with Santa is all about having fun, and Tanner Denasowych of the Cobras accepted the challenge to chase down one of the young skaters.

At the age of two, Lakken Baillee was looking pretty solid on his skates, while his mom Koren watched closely in case any assistance was needed.

And the Angel said unto them, “Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” - Luke 2:10-12

And the Angel said unto them, “Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” - Luke 2:10-12

Ryley Stefanyshyn, captain of the Cobras, struck up a conver sation with this youngster, possibly sharing some tips on how to be a good leader.

Rylan Palchewich plays goal for the Canora Cobras and is the proud father of Paisley, who just turned six months of age. Sheʼs not old enough to get on skates yet, but Paisley was getting used to being on the ice at an early age during Skate with Santa.

We’re hoping your holiday season is filled with enough love, laughter and merriment to last all twelve days and beyond.

For your trust in us, we are deeply grateful and we look forward to the privilege of serving you again next year.

Canora and Preeceville

It may have been cold, but the smiles were warm at

Winter Lights Festival parade

Christmas 2022, what a ride!

“Whew, what a year!” Santa Claus exclaimed as his elves gathered in Santa’s workshop for their pre-Christmas meeting. They had all tested negative for COVID-19 and were up to date on their shots, but just to be safe they were all wearing masks. Santa was pretty sure that he, his wife and all the elves would be COVID-free, as they had spent the whole year at the North Pole in ice-olation. The reindeer

were pastured on the rich grasses in Northern Saskatchewan, close to the North Pole. Santa checked on his reindeer every day, making sure they were in good shape, especially his favourite Rudolph. The reindeer herders had tried a new training method with the herd this year. Each reindeer pulled a herder who was wearing downhill skis. They would do daily runs alternating long and short trips to build the stamina and

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

speed they would need for Christmas Eve.

On the large back wall in Santa’s workshop, a blackboard is divided down the middle with a white chalk line. One

section says WORKED and the other, CHANGE. Santa wants his elves’ input on ideas for improvements. Mrs. Claus stands by the blackboard with her white chalk writing down the

comments.

They had barely been able to finish last year’s run before the sun came up. One elf suggested that they run reindeers in pairs, but side-by-side on each sleigh, which would be safer in case of a sudden stop. If one is behind the other when that happens, the rear reindeer sometimes accidentally “gooses” the lead, causing it to jump forward and upset the rig. A two-span setup with the reindeer running

side-by-side would be safer and speed up the delivery process.

In the meantime, all the elves except the reindeer trainers, were gathered in Santa’s workshop sorting through gifts donated by various toy manufacturers. But the donations are short of Santa’s requirements. The elves wrapping crew sits next to the sorting table, wrapping presents while listening to rap music.

Corey Tibbett and Staff

With warm and friendly wishes for a Merry Christmas and a bright

Keeʼs TaekwondoSanta and Mrs. Claus enjoyed their ride on the Town of Canora float.

Christmas 2022, what a ride!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Other elves are busy making toys or placing toys in various big bags. The gifts are gender neutral and age sensitive. The elves have a map with names of disbelievers clearly marked because those who don’t believe in Santa do not get a visit. The elves are volunteer contractors, in fact you might call them elf employed.

Santa Claus divided the earth into eight regions again this year and added eight more reindeer to the racing pool, so that he can run two reindeer per sleigh. Dasher and Passer pull the starting sleigh followed by Dancer and Splendor, Prancer and Scamper, Vixen and Dixen, Comet and Star, Cupid and Love, Donner and Thor. Bringing up the rear are Blixen and Flash. It is a new setup and Santa is a little concerned with the newbies, but he is optimistic that it will all work out.

The nisse driving the sleighs will have upgraded GPS transceivers, which would send electronic pulses back to Santa’s big electronic world map. The blinking dots on the map tell Santa exactly where the

various nisse are at any time. But unbeknownst to Santa, his nemesis, the devilish Krampus, had been able to hack into Santa’s GPS system and is working on ways to make sure Christmas does not happen this year.

Hermey, one of Santa’s most trusted elves and a tech specialist, is checking to make sure all electronics are working as they should. That’s when he discovers an anomaly which makes him suspicious, so he inserts a spy bot to hunt down intruders. He discovers malware that would be triggered when Santa gives the “go” signal to all the elves. The malware would mess up the GPS signals, making it look as if the elves never left the North Pole.

Hermey contacts top electronics experts all over the world and asks them for assistance. While the other elves were busy with their various chores, Hermey and his crew work on restoring the GPS system. They capture the malware and isolate it. Then they run another exploring bot into the system to see if there are other surprises. They find a carefully hidden evil

After spending the year isolated at the North Pole, Santa was pretty sure that he, his wife and the elves would be COVID-free for Christmas.

troll bot, set to kill the GPS system if the first malware is discovered and isolated. It takes some time, but with great jubilation Hermey and his crew declared the system safe just before noon on Christmas Eve. All the sleighs are loaded and ready to go.

Before they leave, Santa climbs up on the stage and addresses the elves. He thanks them for the great job they have done with a special thank you to Hermey. Santa promises the elves that Mrs. Claus is preparing a scrumptious meal for them to enjoy when all the gifts have been delivered. The elf heading to Canada is

asked to pay special attention to Casey, Leon and Madeline, as well as the Tungland families, especially little Ana and great-grandma Marion. The Scandinavian elf will pay special attention to Pernille, Nadia and Aurora in Norway and Natalie in Sweden. Happy, the US elf will pay special attention to the Bolden Family, Bella, Kristin and Tim in Andover, Minnesota. Santa reminds the elves that the rules are the same as last year.

“I have provided a copy on your onboard computers, so you can refer to them if in doubt.

If you can’t land on the roof and enter through the chimney, then land in the yard or on the road. Enter through the back door if it is a house, or the suite door if it is an apartment building. Whatever you do, you must do it with stealth so as not to awaken anybody, especially the children.

If you encounter any adults still awake, do not interact with them, or accept any Akevitt or rum-laced eggnog. This is important because I don’t want to have to bail any of you out of the drunk tank like I had to

a couple of years ago. Eat the cookies set out for you but leave the eggnog or milk alone. Just remember, if you put your forefinger along the right side of your nose, people won’t remember that they saw you and if you invert your hat inside out from red to grey, you become invisible.

Leave the presents and get out.”

As the elves take off, Krampus discovers that all his malware has been neutralized and he resorts to a more direct approach. He hitches up his sleigh to Chaos and Strife, his two fastest reindeer, and chases

Kristin Olson - My favourite Christmas memory as a kid was Christmas Eve shopping with my dad and siblings. He made it special and exciting for us each year. He would take the day off and get us to make a list of things that mom wanted, and then he would do his best to try and check off as many things from her list as he could. He would also give each of us kids a little bit of money to buy each other something for Christmas. He would then take us to the grocery store, where he would let us pick out our favourite Christmas treats. He loved to buy oysters and sardines! Then we would rent movies at the local gas station to watch over the holidays.

Christmas 2022, what a ride!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

after Fraggle who is driving Donner and Thor. Santa picks up Krampus on his radar and sees that he is chasing Fraggle. He quickly hitches Rudolph up to his slim racing sleigh and chases after Krampus. Just as Krampus is about to cut off Fraggle, Santa arrives with Rudolph to stop him. Santa gets close to Krampus’ sleigh and throws a miniature electronic interference unit into Krampus’ open coat pocket. Rudolph sees his chance to disconnect Krampus’ sleigh from Chaos and Strife by wrecking the tow bars with his antlers. That causes Krampus to drop out of the sky with Chaos and Strife chasing after him. Santa races back to the North Pole to monitor his elves’ progress.

All the elves deliver the presents unseen and on time. There were some tense moments when the elf Gerbert driving Dasher and Splendor was delivering the gifts in the Ukraine and Russia. But Gerbert was able to find all the children, even the orphans, making them all happy despite the armed conflict going on around them.

Krampus had recovered his sleigh and steered it down to his

laboratory where he landed with a big crash. He slowly got up and started planning on other ways to mess up Christmas. He booted up his computer to search the Internet for ideas, but as soon as he opened a search engine, the miniature device from Santa was activated and crashed the system permanently. Krampus decided to wait until next year, which would give him a lot of time to come up with another evil plan.

The worldwide distribution of gifts was completed well before the sun rose for Christmas Day. All the reindeer were groomed and put back in their pasture where a special serving of oats was waiting for

them as a thank you for a job well done. Santa had sent out invitations to all the elves around the world to come and help him celebrate Christmas with a dinner and dance on Christmas Day.

The elves under Mrs. Claus’ supervision prepared scrumptious roasted turkeys with all the trimmings. For dessert, they served the traditional caramel pudding. The elf Puritan was in charge of distilling the delicious Mossavitt from a mash of reindeer moss grown only on the North Pole. It was chilled and served in small hand carved wooden cups. Puritan made what he called a reindeer ale, but he refused to divulge the ingredients, saying it was a secret recipe.

HOURS: Closed December 25 & 26 and January 1

HOLIDAY

After the delicious meal, Eskel took out his mouth harp and started to play. Gudbrand joined him with his Hardanger fiddle, and Geir had brought his lure -- a wooden trumpet. They were accompanied by Terje on his set of timpani drums made from reindeer hide. They played all the traditional tunes, and everyone danced all night long. Santa and Mrs. Claus got up from their chairs and started dancing. The others followed suit and pretty soon they were doing the North Pole version of the Virginia Reel . It was a merry gathering and as always, Christmas was rich with traditions, and the merry guests danced the night away.

Christmas Memories C

Ron Kalmakoff - It seems for many their favourite Christmas memories take them to when they were a child. My story is the same! Thinking back in time, past Christmas occasions were spent between Canora, Kamsack, Pelly and Veregin with a lot of extended family. A highlight was enjoying the amazing traditional cuisine that the women in the family spent preparing. It ʼs hard to appreciate how much time was put into these dishes until you try making them yourself. I feel very fortunate that my grandmas and aunties passed on their favourite treasured recipes. Now living on the West Coast, each year around the holidays, when I create a few of these dishes for family or friends, I canʼt help but re-live memorable moments from my childhood and past holiday seasons, in Saskatchewan.

In preparation for the Christmas Eve journey, the reindeer had been pastured on the rich grasses of northern Saskatchewan.

Virgil and Dawn Hrywkiw sang

with Me and Mary

Boy Child at the annual carol festival.

The Doukhobor Prayer Home Choir sang at the carol festival.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church choir sang Sleep Jesus Sleep and Jerusalem Bells, directed by Paula Danylchuk with Audry Ortynsky as soloist.

Adeste Fidelis and Angels We Have Heard were sung by the St Josephʼs Roman Catholic Church choir, directed by Ursula Sliwa.

Sandra Byneshewsky directed the Canora Senior Elementary School Grade 4 students when they sang Born Is He This Holy Child and Marvelous Toy

The Grade 3 junior elementary school choir sang Here We Come A-Wassailing and Zumba, Zumba.

Gwen Derow and Bernadette and Marusia Kobrynski sang God Eternal and Born in a Manger.