OBSERVER
Carlyle legion branch hosts Remembrance Day service
The Carlyle branch of the Royal Canadian Legion held a well-attended Remembrance Day ceremony in the Carlyle Elementary School gymnasium on Nov. 11. District 1 zone commander Nedra Clark served as the MC for the ceremony and started by calling for sergeant-at-arms John Voutour to march in
the colours. The colour party consisted of RCMP Staff Sgt. Mike Shortland, flag bearers Mike Makelki, Lexi Wainman, Ryan Cooper, Chrissy Corbiere, Jessica Cooper and Doug Waldner, followed by serving members Bombardier Eaton, Trooper Eaton and Sgt. Trevor Robertson.
Once the colour party was in place O Canada was sung and the time of remembrance took
place. Bugler Jesse Twietmeyer played The Last Post, followed by two minutes of silence and Reveille.
Clark then called on Mike and Clareen Makelki to read the honour roll of those lost in the First and Second World Wars. She followed with the Act of Remembrance.
At this point the choir, led by Wendy Rounce, performed an original composition by
Dianne Twietmeyer entitled Lest We Forget, whose words clearly expressed the purpose of Remembrance Day.
Father Chris Juchacz provided a gospel reading and delivered a sermon.
Another item in the ceremony included the ceremonial wreath-laying for remembrance. During that time, the cadets served to bring the wreaths forward. Notable people who laid wreaths included Carlyle Mayor Jennifer Sedor, Shortland, Bombardier Eaton, Trooper Eaton and Sgt. Robertson.
Twietmeyer read In Flanders Fields. A short presentation was shown on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and its efforts in peacekeeping. Clark also read a poem written by Warrant Officer Cameron (Frank) Coffey, which was written on Nov. 11, 1996. Coffey died the following year.
Juchacz led the crowd in a prayer and the benediction. The colour party was called to
march out the colours, which ended the ceremony at the school. The ceremony later was reconvened for a brief wreathlaying at the cenotaph.
The Carlyle legion extends its appreciation to the cadets of the Bow Valley Air Cadets for their assistance throughout the ceremony, to Juchacz, to the serving members of the forces who attended, and everyone who attended to honour those who served and sacrificed.
Additional stories on Remembrance Day activities in the southeast can be found in this week’s edition of the Observer.
The choir performed an original composition by Dianne Twietmeyer of Lest We Forget.
Laying of the ceremonial wreaths. Photos by Dolores Young
Bugler Jesse Twietmeyer
By Doug Waldner
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By Stephanie Zoer
As the crowd of 100 people gathered in the Stoughton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion for the community’s Remembrance Day service, Zack Sloane, the new pastor from the Stoughton Apostolic Church, welcomed everyone, and he asked that those who were able to gather outside at the cenotaph for the laying of wreaths.
The singing of O’Canada was lead by Debbie McLenaghan, and then the Last Post was played.
As the bugle was played by Dustin Hall, the flag was lowered to half mass by legion member Ray Coderre. Two minutes of silence was observed for those who never returned home.
This solemn annual gathering brought together members of the community and veterans to pay tribute to those who served in the war, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
One by one, dignitaries were escorted by a Stoughton Girl Guide to the cenotaph for the wreaths to be laid. Upon completion of the wreath laying ceremony, everyone returned to the warmth of the hall.
A prayer of invocation was given by Sloane, followed by the singing of Peace like a River which was accompanied by the organ playing of Alvina Goudy.
Ann Phillips from the Stoughton United Church read Joshua 4: 1-9, followed by a prayer together with Brad Phillips from the Catholic Church.
Everyone stood for the Lord’s Prayer and Sloane had a short sermon.
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December
Carlyle Elementary School & That Place on Railway Sun , Dec 8 - Cornerstone Theatre matinee
Stoughton legion honoured all those who lost their lives
He spoke about his move to Stoughton and how in his hometown in Ontario the legion was taken down as it was no longer used. As he drove down Highway 33 and came to Stoughton, he saw the legion and was happy to see that small towns still know the importance of the organization.
He belonged to the cadets and played the bagpipes.
“I remember this like
it happened yesterday; it was powerful and there was always a lot of people,” said Sloane.
Today the gatherings are smaller, and each year fewer veterans remain, but he realizes that times change and that things are different today.
He said everyone wants peace, and this is also something that God strives for – a peaceful nation.
Sloane choose the reading from the Bible as
it spoke of the Israelites going through the sea.
Each family member was to take a stone, and with these stones the future was to be built.
It is similar today, with building and instructing our children, just like they did in the Biblical times.
Chief Pat Slater of the Stoughton Tecumseh Fire Department read off the 305 names of those who did not return home or have passed away over the years. The names are
read so that people do not forget who they are and what they did for this country to keep it free.
Chloe Foster read a poem that she wrote called Angels in the Sky, which was a touching poem dedicated to those who have left. The service ended with the singing of How Great Thou Art and God Save the King. A luncheon followed for those who wished to stay and visit.
Each dignitary who laid a wreath at the Stoughton legion branch was escorted to the cenotaph by a Stoughton Girl Guide member. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
The building of a Dickens Village Festival show
By Michele Amy
“But the band gets paid, right?” asked an incredulous audience member in 2023, astonished at the quality of the music and the band performance.
“Nope,” I replied. “All volunteer.” Now this is pretty impressive when we look at the quality of the musicians in the pit band – musicians like guitarist Morgan Turk, drummer Claude Poirier, and Paul Twietmeyer and often Lane Easton if he’s not on stage.
Then again, none of the actors are paid either. Nor are the writers, the choreographers, the set designers or sound engineers. Everyone contributes their time and talent. For free. For fun. Mostly.
“So, where does the money from the shows go?” is a common question. This is a pretty good question.
The Cornerstone Theatre production pretty much sells out three full showings each year. Considering that is over 200 seats at $25 a pop, that would seem to be a lot of money. According to my calculator, at least $12,000. Wow. That seems like a lot.
First of all, there are some costs involved in staging a high-quality production. Microphones, sound equipment, lighting, projectors, equipment to build sets and to replace props, just to name a few. And then there are things like programs, cleaning supplies, costumes and tech material.
But Cornerstone Theatre is pretty frugal because we have talented people on board. Folks like Twietmeyer, who volunteers countless hours building sets from scratch, repairing anything which breaks and creatively solving complex issues without going to buy new stuff.
Or Doug Waldner, Shannon Klatt or Craig Savill, who come to the theatre to fix, repair, clean and haul things.
People like Don Carter, who maintains and builds the webpage and organizes the program printing. Or Craig Savill, who organizes the bar, or Easton, who when he’s not acting and singing, is very handy on a vacuum.
But let’s start at the beginning. How does a
show like this get put together?
The discussion about the Christmas production usually starts in July . Or May. Or February. When one of the theatre gang is brave enough to ask the question, “So, what are we going to do for the Dickens Festival this year?”
To be fair, Cornerstone Theatre (led by Dianne and Paul Twietmeyer) has been reinventing the Christmas Carol storyline for 20 years. So this is a good question.
The first few years of the festival were easy. Many professional adaptations have been written, and there were lots to choose from, including Christmas in Harlem and The Christmas Carol Project among many others.
But then those started running out and in-house adaptations started being written by Dianne Twietmeyer, Doug Waldner, Samantha Twietmeyer and Megan McAuley.
These include a female Scrooge as a bookstore owner, Scrooge in Space, Scrooge in Harlem, Western Scrooge, Pirate Scrooge (featuring an epic stage design) and the Muppet Christmas Carol with its great revolving stage pieces.
In 2024, the group said enough of the Christmas Carol and took the brave step to venture into another favourite topic: hockey. So this year’s production features a script written by Waldner titled It’s a Wonderful Hockey Life. No ghosts. No Scrooge. No bah humbug. Yikes.
And here is what the production looks like. Kind of. As briefly as I can make it.
In September, the cast is assembled and somebody volunteers to direct.
Dianne Twietmeyer in particular makes Herculean efforts to search out new talent within the community, and to invite them to join the Cornerstone Theatre Group. (Wait: did you know we
did a version featuring Hercules?)
What is The Cornerstone Group? It is really just a pretty accepting and quirky club of people who happen to like theatre, music, each other, hanging out, good food and great conversations (not in any particular order).
Then the new group of likely suspects gets together and auditions for roles they might like to play this year.
Whoever is directing this year (in 2024 it’s Waldner) makes up a production schedule and we get into rehearsals.
The show needs to be cast, people need to learn their lines, become familiar with the music and work on choreography. Blocking needs to occur. Props need to be assembled and costumes created. We need to decide if David Slykhuis is playing a man or a woman.
The band leader and practice musician (often myself) comes along to each rehearsal and gets
the music organized, chooses keys, figures out cues and works with the actors and directors.
This goes on from September to November, twice weekly, and countless hours of rehearsals, until about a month before performances, when the band comes into play.
The sound guy sets up, choreography occurs, costumes are determined and lights are set up. All the technical aspects are finalized.
Paul Twietmeyer gets artists like Marylin Carter and Marion Biram on board to come build and paint the sets. This
is a big job, as the sets he designs are works of art, both elaborate and complex.
Somewhere in there, programs are designed and sent to printers, Don Carter gets all the ticket sales underway. The children are brought in for some small parts; chaos ensues.
The theatre gets cleaned. Megan reorganizes the entire costume zone and spends weeks purging and restructuring. Stuff gets fixed. Someone brings treats.
Theatre members hang out in the green room after rehearsals and have a bunch of good laughs.
Tickets are sold. Tickets are sold out.
But the band does not get paid, and neither does anybody else. So why do it at all?
Some people play hockey. Some people play golf. Some people curl. Some people make theatre. Some people make music!
Community members volunteer in their own ways at the schools, the hockey rink, the golf course, the curling rink, the pool, in service clubs like the Lions who maintain the ball diamonds (etc) on The Dickens Committee, and in the Memorial Hall and Theatre and in so many other places around town. It’s part of what makes living in a community so awesome. And part of what makes the Carlyle Dickens Village festival is watching all of these volunteers and organizations come together to create something unique each December.
Lane Easton, Erica Armstrong and the youth cast of the Cornerstone Theatre’s 2023 production. Photo courtesy of Michele Amy
What does Trump’s victory mean for us?
By David Willberg
Few elected leaders create a more polarized reaction than U.S. president-elect Donald Trump.
The combative, divisive celebrity billionaire-turned-president evokes nearly equal amounts of criticism and admiration. He’s heading back to the White House, which he occupied from 20162020, after winning the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential election.
Unlike his victory in 2016, this election win wasn’t close. And he won the popular vote this time, which he didn’t do in 2016 or 2020, when he lost.
Millions were hoping that his vast misdeeds, not just during his term as president but before and after, would keep him from the White House this time around. His supporters ignored his flagrant snubs to democracy – his bogus claims the 2020 presidential election was rigged, his failure to participate in a peaceful transition of power and his stoking of animosity prior to the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection in Washington.
Criticisms of the Democrats’ failed leadership during the past four years are far more legitimate than claims about election fixing in 2020. Joe Biden was a good steady hand as a vice-president during Barack Obama’s eight-year reign as president, but Biden wasn’t suited to being president.
If Kamala Harris had been given more opportunities to be in the public eye during her time as vice-president, she likely would have had a better chance to defeat Trump. But you didn’t hear much about her since Biden won the 2020 election, leaving her as a great unknown for voters when she was forced to step in as the Democratic presidential candidate after Biden’s failure in the first 2024 debate with Trump.
It’s a damning statement of the party that all they had to oppose Trump were Hilary Clinton in 2016 and Biden in 2020.
A Trump defeat might have brought an end to his grip on the Republican Party. While he won’t be able to seek another term as president in 2028, it will still be his party beyond the next four years.
During Trump’s first term, his relationship with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was actually pretty good for the first 12-18 months; ironically, it was likely better than the relationship that Trump would have had with Trudeau’s predecessor, Stephen Harper, who was ousted as PM in 2015. But Trump’s relationship with Trudeau deteriorated over time, which was predictable. Don’t expect Trump and Trudeau to be on friendly terms for as long as Trudeau is prime minister.
Trump has already said he wants to impose 10 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods imported to the U.S., to create a better deal for the U.S., and he has said he wants to once again renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico.
Trump’s election should be good news for the oil and gas sector, although his victory will undoubtedly hinder Canada’s competitiveness even more, thanks to policies introduced by the Government of Canada under Trudeau’s leadership.
There’s also no guarantee that Canada’s relationship with the U.S. will be better than it is now, even if the Conservatives win the next federal election.
We’ve been through Trump’s leadership before, but the world is in a much more unstable position than it was eight years ago, thanks to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the war between Israel and Hamas, and other global conflicts taking place.
There’s always going to be strife in the world, but right now feels more difficult. Trump isn’t the type who’s going to step in and diffuse these situations. So buckle up. The next four years won’t be easy.
“Sometimes, it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”
Tuning
in to what we need to hear
“Wassup? How y’all be? How you doin’ tonight?”
These inane phrases and nonsense vocabulary went on for two minutes and 13 seconds in a large event where an individual was trying to introduce the next speaker. The one doing the introduction was a celebrity – someone with enough apparent clout to draw attention to the cause. Yet whatever influence she was supposed to bring, I would suggest she destroyed it by her inability to put coherent thoughts or complete sentences together.
But she was a celebrity and our culture turns to celebrities often. They are called on to endorse products and organizations; causes and candidates.
We bring out celebrities regularly to try and shape public opinion, and to sell everything from soda
to shoes. However, despite the millions of dollars spent to get celebrity endorsements, the research does little to suggest it is very effective. Most studies have found a boost in stock prices of about a quarter per cent when a deal is announced, and sales see an initial four per cent rise.
But that seems to taper off over time, and there’s the risk involved if a celebrity should happen to fall from grace and take down their reputation and endorsed products in the process.
No doubt a famous face can draw attention, but are we going to value their opinion so much we stop using our own judgement? Exactly whose voices are we allowing in? Who are we listening to?
In the course of a day we are exposed to many voices — family, friends, neighbours, co-workers and clients, not to mention the voices coming through our monitors, TVs and devices by broadcasters, pundits, newscasters, hosts, programs and advertisements. It gets challenging knowing who to tune in, and who to tune out. Or does it?
I was once part of a team building exercise that required input from everyone as we tackled what was an intentionally-hard task. People
were speaking at the same time, trying to get their opinions out there quickly so we could get moving and beat the other team we were up against. There was a lot of noise until a deeply respected man began to speak.
In his quiet, gentle manner, he proposed a plan that got us all thinking because we could hear him and respond. We knew that what he had to say would be worth listening to. And it was.
There are times when I try and remember what my dad’s voice sounded like. He died when I was a teenager but when I think of certain phrases he would say I feel I can recall the sound. He was a voice worth listening to. As are my family and friends, and those in my life on a daily basis who know me and care about me.
That’s why I do not understand why we give so much of our time and mental energy to those who know nothing about us but who make their living trying to influence us. There are so many others we should be taking the time to listen to. Seniors. Teenagers. Our spouse. Children. Our friends. They are far more deserving of our attention.
Instead of talking with the people in our physical space, too often we
see individuals isolating themselves on their devices, scrolling through post after endless post and ignoring others in the room.
Watch a group of people together out for a meal, a meeting, sports event or anywhere people gather. Those they know and love are within arm’s reach, yet where is their attention? On a screen.
I see it and I do it. And it means I’m missing out. Missing out on the words and wisdom of those who know me and understand me. Replacing the voices of those who care about my well-being and instead giving my attention to those who want to rile me up, shape my values or influence my decisions.
It’s why we need to give thought to who and what we are choosing to listen to. Sometimes, especially at the end of a long or busy day, we tell ourselves we simply want to watch or listen to something “mindless”. There is no such thing. We process more than 60,000 thoughts each day indicating our brains are always at work. What we put into our heads is the furthest thing from mindless.
Who we listen to makes a difference. Let’s be sure we stay tuned in to the voices that matter most. That’s my outlook.
- Nelson Mandela
Shelley Luedtke
Guest speakers address Kisbey Remembrance Day service
By Stephanie Zoer
The community of Kisbey gathered with solemn respect to observe Remembrance Day, honouring the sacrifices of veterans past and present.
This years’ service was especially notable, with esteemed guest speakers Craig Bird from the South East Saskatchewan Military Museum in Estevan and John Voutour, a retired Canadian peacekeeper.
Nora Wreightman was the MC for the afternoon service, welcoming more than 80 people in attendance. The crowd sang O Canada, and as silence fell over the crowd, the last post and two minutes of silence were observed in honour of those who have fallen.
Pastor Kevin St. John opened with a prayer of invocation, followed by scripture readings from Psalm 24 and 46, and Isaiah 2:2-5.
Wreightman named off the 36 veterans of those from the area who died in war, so they would never be forgotten for the sacrifices they made for Canada.
St. John spoke about how Jesus wanted peace for this world, and that true refuge was not found in weapons but through Christ. Peace comes when we see the strength in God.
Bird went to France in June for the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Fifteen veterans who
were able to travel also went.
The Juno Beach Centre was a busy place as many dignitaries came as well, and Bird placed photos on the beach where some of the soldiers had lost their lives.
“It was an experience I will never forget,” he said.
A Métis soldier who went to war for Canada died while serving Canada, and his photo was among those placed by Bird on Juno Beach.
Voutour was a peacekeeper, and he said the conditions were so different from one country to another. They were only allowed to carry 20 bullets and ammunition was only used
in extreme conditions.
“It was only our place to keep peace, we were not the ones at war,” he said.
Voutour joined the army while living in New Brunswick. He had a choice of going east or west, and since he had never been to the west, this is were he decided to go.
During his stay in Cyprus at age 18, the conditions were not that bad. They lived in a building, could call home once a week and send letters.
It was shift work, with four hours on and four hours off, and this went for 24 hours. They were given days off, but were on-call all the time, so
Arcola Kisbey 4-H Beef Club report
By Jackson Lees Club Reporter
On Nov. 3, we had a re-organizational meeting at the Lees shop. We are excited to have five new members join us this year: Josie Lees, Cade Dayman, Alexis Foy, Morgan Anderson and Quinn Anderson. Returning members are Jackson Lees, Hannah Lees, Jade Charlton, Andrew Charlton, Matthew Charlton, Bode Pretty, Nyia Pretty, and Emma, Kyla and Becca Lees. We discussed what we want to do for regular club meetings, making halters, working on record books, a judging day, a demonstration
day, and touring local cattle or dairy farms.
We talked about our fundraisers for this year. We are still collecting recycling and possibly holding a bottle drive and doing cleanups after events at the Arcola Prairie Place Complex.
The election of executive positions took place, with Matthew Charlton (president), Kyla Lees (vice-president), Jade Charlton (treasurer), Jackson Lees (reporter) and Becca Lees (secretary). The general leader is Arden Charlton, and the assistant leaders are Jeff Lees and Garon Pretty. From last year, Jackson Lees was presented with the Busy Beaver Award
and Emma Lees got the Helping Hands Award for their contributions. We also talked about our part in helping with the upgrades to the Arcola Fair Grounds because that’s where we have our Achievement Day.
they did not get relaxation time.
When Voutour went to Egypt, the conditions were much different. Contacting home was done through letters, and no phone calls happened. They lived in tents with many peacekeepers.
The tents were on a race track, while food was stored under the bleachers.
“The food was not the greatest, but it was food,” he said. It is an experience that will live on forever in his mind.
“I could talk about this for hours, but we are on a time limit,” said Voutour. Voutour asked that everyone
Our club Christmas party will be booked soon and the next meeting will be Dec. 8. If anyone has an event at Arcola Prairie Place and needs it cleaned the next day, contact Jeff Lees 306-577-1375.
BUYS IN USE DE QUIP MENT
remember the young soldiers that are in Afghanistan. Their conditions are not good. He feels that soldiers today do not get the respect that soldiers received back in the day, and it is important to remember them.
Last week’s edition of the Observer had more on Votour’s service. The article can also be found on our provincial news hub at sasktoday.ca.
As the closing prayer was uttered, and the singing of God Save the King was completed, a luncheon was served for everyone to gather, talk about the past and enjoy the presence of today with the freedom that Canada has.
Kisbey’s Remembrance Day service had several organizations helping to make the service a memorable event. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
SOUTHERN PLAINS
Ca rl yl eF ood St or e
Morrisons earn award from Lions for generosity
By Heather Vermeersch
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In -Hou se Ba ke ry –F re sh ly ba ke db re ad s, pa st ri es , in di vi du al de sse rt sa nd cu st om ca ke s.
En ha nc ed Sh op pi ng
Ex pe ri en ce –W id er ai sl es an di nc re as ed ac ce ssi bi lit y.
The Carlyle District Lions Club presented a Marvin Chambers Progressive Fellowship Award on Nov. 5 to Trevor and Lisa Morrison. Chambers is a past international director who was a member of the Fillmore Lions for many years. Chambers has moved to Medicine Hat, Alta., and is currently serving as the trustee for the Lions Clubs International Foundation of Canada. He believes individuals who provide community service that goes beyond should be recognized, whether they are Lions or not.
The Morrisons donated $36,000 to the Lions Club. The club added to the amount to make it an even $40,000. The money is going directly to the Ronald McDonald fundraising initiative the Saskatchewan Lions Foundation is engaged in to raise money to install state-of-the-art kitchen equipment at the Ronald McDonald Houses being built in Regina and Prince Albert. Because of the generosity of the Morrisons, the total amount given is $45,000, which will be doubled as the Lions Clubs International Foundation Grant will provide matching support.
It is an extraordinary gift which has significantly increased the amount that has currently been raised for this project. The Lions are now at $137,000 and the goal is to raise $200,000. It is a community-minded and generous people like Trevor and Lisa who make a difference and the Lions want to recognize their commitment to others with this certificate. Thank you to the Morrisons for their efforts in the community and beyond and for partnering with the Carlyle District Lions Club to give back in such an incredible way.
Danielle Hoffman, Administrator
Trevor and Lisa Morrison and Lions South-Saskatchewan District Governor Heather Vermeersch.
Club learns about grooming
The Carievale 4-H Beef Club came together Nov. 4 to have a meeting at the Gallant Farm. They had two special guests, Ryan Brown and Brett Green, who came to show club members how to properly groom calves for show day. Brown did a clipping and gluing demonstration for the older members and explained how to properly care for animals’ hair, while Green taught the cloverbuds how to brush their calves and which combs to use. Photo courtesy of Cole Green
Deep breathing exercises can help with stress
Stress is a normal part of life that is not always as bad as it might seem.
For example, a 2013 study found that acute stress caused stems in the brains of rats to proliferate into new nerve cells that ultimately improved the animals’ mental performance. That led researchers to conclude that intermittent stressful events can improve alertness, which in turn can help individuals perform better.
When noting the potentially positive effects of stress, it’s important to note that those rewards are only reaped when stress is acute. VeryWellMind notes acute stress is commonly experienced a few times each day in the face of an immediate threat.
Prolonged stress, often referred to as chronic stress, is dangerous, as it can contribute to conditions like high blood pressure that increase individuals’ risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Combatting chronic stress may require lifestyle changes and the adoption of additional strategies, including breathing techniques.
Skeptics may question the efficacy of breathing as a means to combatting stress. However, studies have determined breathing exercises can help to alleviate stress by tricking the brain into thinking a person is in a different emotional state.
When a person is confronting a stressful situation, breathing speeds up and becomes irregular and shallow. Breathing exercises help people slow down their breathing, thus tricking the brain into thinking a person is in a calm state where no threat is perceived.
Short, shallow breaths into the chest are common but can contribute to feelings of anxiety and fatigue. Deep breathing techniques are designed to teach people how to take bigger breaths. A deep breathing exercise can begin after a person finds a comfortable position and then breathes in through the nose and lets the belly fill with air. Then breathe out through the nose before placing one hand on the belly and the other on
the chest. Feel the belly rise as you breathe in and then feel it lower as you breathe out. Take three additional full, deep breaths.
Focus can help make a deep breathing exercise more effective. Use a picture in your mind and a word or phrase to help relax you. Close the eyes before taking a handful of big, deep breaths. When breathing in, imagine the air is filled with a sense of peace and calm. When breathing out, imagine
HEALTH & Seniors
stress is leaving with that exhaled air.
A word or phrase can be utilized when breathing in and out to reinforce these feelings. Continue these exercises for 10 to 20 minutes.
Wellness involves various strategies designed to promote better overall health, and such approaches include ways to combat stress. Deep breathing exercises are a simple and accessible means to navigating stressful situations.
Lions support Manor Club
The Carlyle District Lions Club presented the Manor Over-60 Club with a donation. The Manor club with will be using the funds to assist with the regular Meals on Wheels program. Pictured are club Lions Club second vice-president Candy Bye and Manor Mayor and Over-60 volunteer Lucille Dunn. Photo courtesy of Carlyle District Lions’ Facebook page
Deep breathing exercises can help people confront stressful situations.
Stoughton’s school hosts Remembrance Day service
By Stephanie Zoer
Stoughton Central School held a heartfelt Remembrance Day service on Nov. 7 to honour the sacrifices of veterans and service members.
This annual event brought students, teachers, families and community members, creating a solemn atmosphere for reflection on the significance of the day.
The service began with students entering the school gymnasium, which transformed into a commemorative space adorned with the Canadian flag and poppies. Every student was wearing a poppy.
Teacher Scott Kirkness was the MC for the event and he explained to the students the conditions that many of the soldiers lived in while at war.
He spoke about the trenches that the soldiers lived in, and how wet and cold they often were. The soldiers feet were often soaking wet and they were hurting from the moisture. It was referred to as trench foot.
The conditions were horrific, yet they battled on to keep people free in their own countries.
Kirkness went on to explain that during the war nine million people died, which was 6,000 people dying daily. He told the students the reason for the red and purple poppies and why it was so important to wear them over the heart.
The gymnasium was completely quiet as he spoke, and
he praised the younger children for being so attentive.
As part of the ceremony, Bob O’Connor and Ray Coderre from the Stoughton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion were also present.
Coderre said that he often had been asked if he was in the war, because he has several
medals on his jacket. He was not in the war, but his medals come from being a volunteer fire fighter for many years.
Coderre works for the veterans, and he goes around to all of the legions, asking if anyone needs support or help financially.
He is also fighting to get fire-
fighters and first responders recognized as veterans as they also go out every day and save lives.
As part of the ceremony, students read poems they wrote about the meaning of Remembrance Day.
These readings captured both the solemnity and gratitude of the occasion, as students expressed their appreciation for the bravery and dedication of those who have served.
The service included a moment of silence when the crowd stood and paid their respects.
The Last Post was played, creating a powerful moment of unity and reverence, giving the students time to soak up all that they had heard that morning.
Stoughton Central School has a long-standing tradition of organizing an annual Remembrance Day service, emphasizing the importance of teaching younger generations about history, sacrifice and the role of the military in protecting peace.
It is the school’s way to keep educators and students to reflect on the importance of remembering this important day.
Carlyle Cougars upend Huskies to open Big Six season
The Carlyle Cougars defeated the Oxbow Huskies 5-1 on Friday night in the opening game of the Big Six Hockey League’s regular season for both teams.
Jon Gaudet recorded the Cougars’ first goal of the campaign with just under nine minutes to play in the opening frame. Ty Brown and Taysen Holt scored less than three minutes apart
By Abby Bartlett
The Glen Ewen Mixed 4-H Club held its first general meeting of the
in the second to build the advantage, but Colton Schell notched Oxbow’s first goal of the season less than a minute after Holt’s goal.
Marc Shaw and Ben Johnstone scored in the third to dash Oxbow’s hope for a comeback.
Curtis Meger (Carlyle) and Cody Levesque (Oxbow) were the goalies.
The Moosomin Rangers won the other two
2024-25 season on Oct. 5. This year the club has six members: Eli Bartlett, Abby Bartlett, Paden
games played on the weekend. Up first was a 9-3 victory over the Midale Mustangs on Friday night – the second time Moosomin defeated Midale in eight days.
Bud Holloway scored four times and added an assist for Moosomin.
Carter Sawchuk had two goals and two assists, and Chad Hebert, Koby Morrisseau and Collin Paull had Moosomin’s
Hitchens, Rayah Lovell, Aniya Douglas and Emery Hitchens, and everybody will be doing a sheep project. Leaders
other goals. Levi Horn was their goalie.
Steven Lindenbach scored twice for Midale and assisted on the Mustangs’ other goal by Cain Thomson. Talen King was in goal for Midale.
The following night, Moosomin routed the Carnduff Red Devils 10-1. Holloway had his second straight five-point game with two goals and three assists, and Morrisseau
are Myrna Babbings as general leader, Pamela Bartlett as project leader, and Daniel Bartlett and Mckenzie Lovell as
also had five points with a goal and four assists. Sawchuk notched two goals and two assists for the second straight night. Ryker Cole and Taylor Sanheim each scored twice, and Drayson Skulmoski also scored.
Mark Moriarty had Carnduff’s lone goal Horn was in goal for Moosomin, while Cody Dumaine and Mason Plews shared Carnduff’s
screened volunteers. Our executive members are Eli Bartlett (president), Paden Hitchens (vicepresident), Rayah Lovellas (secretary), Abby Bartlett (treasurer and reporter), Abby Bartlett and Paden Hitchens (member representatives), and Pamela Bartlett and Myrna Babbings (adult representatives of District 41).
The first district meeting of the year was on Oct. 16 in Carievale. Those who attended were Myrna Babbings, Pamela Bartlett, Mcken-
goaltending duties. Four games are scheduled in the upcoming weekend. Oxbow will visit the Kipling-Windthorst Oil Kings and the Redvers Rockets are at Carlyle on Nov. 15, and Midale is at the Wawota Flyers and Carlyle is at Carnduff on Nov. 16. All games are slated to start at 8 p.m. The Flyers’ game will be their first contest of the season.
zie Lovell, Abby Bartlett, Rayah Lovell and Paden Hitchens. The District 41 fall rally will be hosted by the Carnduff Beef 4-H Club this year.
Show your 4-H Colours Day occurred Nov. 6. Pamela Bartlett asked each member what they wanted to do; some ideas were making a sheep stand, shearing stand and a sheep sign. Myrna Babbings asked the same question; responses included curling, skating, sledding and baking. Myrna also talked about record book neatness.
From left, Kayleigha Malowski, Brynlee Gervais and Madilyn Larose read a poem in memory of those who lost their lives during the wars, while Bob O’Connor and Ray Coderre from the Stoughton legion listened to the touching words. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Carlyle Lions receive Club Excellence Award
The Carlyle Lions Club has been recognized for its contributions to the community.
Heather Vermeersch, the district governor for southern Saskatchewan, presented the award at a recent meeting, recognizing the Lions for their work during the 202324 Lion year. She said these awards
“Thank you for completing the application process and for accomplishing so much as a club,” Vermeersch told the club.
She said this is well earned and well deserved, and it is an honour to present the recognition.
are presented to clubs who are in good standing, have engaged in service projects, regularly contribute to the Lions Clubs International Foundation, have increased membership, communicate to the public about their activities, fill leadership roles within the club, have met regularly and report activities to Lions Clubs International.
Heather Vermeersch presented the Club Excellence Award to past-president Wayne Wilson. Photo courtesy of Heather Vermeersch
Harrison ‘honoured’ to be new Agriculture minister
By David Willberg
Cannington MLA Daryl Harrison says it is an honour to be the new minister of Agriculture for the provincial government.
Harrison was named to the role on Nov. 7 when Premier Scott Moe announced his cabinet to start the new term.
Harrison replaces David Marit, who is now the minister of Highways and Infrastructure and the minister responsible for SaskBuilds.
It’s the first cabinet post for Harrison, who was initially elected as Cannington’s MLA in the 2020 provincial election and re-elected in the Oct. 28 election. He said he couldn’t say enough good things about the previous agriculture ministers, in particular Marit, who Harrison described as a “great friend and mentor”.
The two have spoken briefly since the cabinet posts were announced.
“Minister Marit’s now got other duties, so there will be opportunities going forward [to talk], and I’m very appreciative of that,” said Harrison.
Since the appointment was announced, Harrison has been learning everything he can about the role and more about the portfolio.
He voiced an interest in being in cabinet following the election, and was hopeful he would get an appointment, but he wasn’t expecting it and there wasn’t discussion of him being in cabinet during his first term.
“When the opportunity arises, I’m honoured to pick up that role,” said Harrison.
Agriculture has long been a big part of Harrison’s life. He is a rancher
and a cow-calf producer, with about 160 cows on an operation near Alida. His mother and father
were farmers, and his grandparents on both sides of the family were involved in farming. The
Harrison family’s operation has grown over the years.
“There’s always lots to learn, and there are some great stakeholder groups, great producers across the province,” said Harrison.
“It’s probably one of the industries that uses technology, or grows technology, more than a lot of others,” said Harrison. “There’s a lot of technology in just a new tractor or combine, let alone the additional technology that you can add to your existing fleet.”
The “leading-edge” technology that is created for agriculture can be expanded to other sectors later, he said.
Agriculture remains a backbone of the Saskatchewan economy, and Harrison said growing it and keeping it strong and vibrant is a top priority. Supporting
producers with a business-risk management program is critical, and encouraging producers to participate is important.
“The agriculture research that goes on in this province is just second to none. I just can’t say enough about that technology and the research that is conducted here within the province,” said Harrison.
Serving as a cabinet minister will mean a lot more work and travel for Harrison. The agriculture sector is spread throughout the province, so Harrison knows he’ll have to meet with lots of people and stakeholder groups.
“It’s a fabulous industry and I look forward to meeting some new people and reacquainting myself with some old friends,” said Harrison.
USED SEED HAWK AI RS EED ER S
control $CALL
Full Gospel Church Welcomes You 202-4th St W. Service Schedule: Sunday morning Service 10:30 a.m. Jesus Still Heals Today Wed. evening Bible Study 7:30 p.m 306-453-2512 Pastor Rodney & Gail Cox Arcola-Kisbey United Church Worship
Church of Our Lady, Carlyle
Father Chris Juchacz Carlyle: Sunday at 11 a.m.
Kenosee: Saturday at 5 p.m Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200
Cannington MLA Daryl Harrison is now the minister of Agriculture. File photo
ACROSS
1. Certain exam
5. Drove too fast
9. Food container
12. PBS science show
13. Roof edge
14. Be in debt
15. Fastener
16. Neat
17. Intersected
18. Born first
20. Ham spice
22. Olympic sled
24. Bloodhound’s clue
27. Had being
30. Hairless
32. Fishing string
33. Forever
35. Inheritance
37. Arouse
38. Angelic headgear
40. Doze, with “off”
41. Catcher’s place
42. Out of control
44. Observe
47. Flight path
51. Fruit-filled pastry
53. Banister 55. Likewise
56. Important span
57. Eyeball
58. Black-tie event
59. your request
60. Land document 61. Molt
DOWN
1. Single time 2. Teacher’s list
3. Eager 4. Boutonniere’s site
5. Tennis unit
Package
Rotten
Dealer’s car
Funnyman
Fill with wonder
After taxes
Deep red
Electrical unit
Slash
Atop
Hollow plant
Choir member
Beach clothing 31. Appetizing store
HOW TO PLAY:
Fill in the grid so thateveryrow, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1through 9only once.
Each 3x3 boxisoutlined with a darker line. Youalreadyhavea few numbers to getyou started Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through9inthe same line, columnor3x3 box.
Florida Key, e.g.
Kermit’s kin
Verve
Illtemper
Commanded
TAURUS
You’ll
GEMINI
Shopping will take up some of your timethisweek, andyou’ll be inspired to redesign your home. You might even be tempted to buy some early Christmas decorations.
CANCER
Your imaginationwill know no bounds this week! However,you might get into abit of aslump. You’ll immerse yourself in creating awork of artorindulge in binge-watching aTVseries. Creativity is key.
LEO
You may not always thrive in crowds, but you’llcome across inspiringindividu als who’ ll moti vate you to take on new challenges. Expect to develop meaningful new friendships.
VIRGO
You may procrastinate this week, but yourlovedoneswill help you getyour priorities straight while keepingthings light. Youmay have anew leaseonlife after this experience
LIBRA
Aspontaneous trip is on the horizon, even if you think it’s unrealistic. On the job, you’ll work with adiverseclientele thatwill bring youabundance. Keep an openmind whenopportunitiesarise.
SCORPIO
You’ll need to take on many responsibilities at workand home. Your hard work will be acknowledged, and you’ll be rewarded for yourefforts. Recognition andgratitude are coming your way.
SAGITTARIUS
Changeiscoming! Go with theflow, andyour worries will fade away. Sentimental projectswill happen faster than expected. Be open to opportunities
CAPRICORN
Yo um us ta ddre ss fin ancial, prof essional or personal matters; negotiations may become tense. You must strike the right balance in all aspects of your life to findpeace.
AQUARIUS
Love will takeupa big part of your week. Prepare to be romanced! Expect an awkward, perhaps unexpected and unreciprocated confession of lovefrom acolleague.
PISCES
Take some timeoff to recover from a cold. Spend afew days at home and bringsome workhome with youover theweekend to catchup. The moon will boost your imagination, inspirationand intuition.
PUZZLE NO. 264