Carlyle District Fire Department has successful Lobsterfest
By Kaitlynn Nordal
The 2025 Lobsterfest, a fundraiser for the Carlyle District Fire Department, was a huge success.
Lobsterfest started in 2015 as a fundraiser for the fire department.
“We planned on having another in two years, as we alternate with Redvers each year,” said volunteer firefighter Michelle Orsted. “But with changes to the rink, the build of the fire hall, and Covid we were unable to host again until 2023 when we were able to host right at the fire hall.”
All the money raised goes towards upgrading equipment.
“Equipment is expensive and there’s only so much in a budget, so as a department we do our part in being able to do upgrades in equipment and tools,” said Orsted who is one of the main organizers of Lobsterfest.
“We need to get new sets of
gear as they expire and the cost is approximately $4,000 a set. (We also need) boots, gloves, (and) balaclavas (since they) wear out.
We have had to replace our IR cameras. Upgrading wildland gear is (also) one of the recent expenses,” continued Orsted.
This year’s Lobsterfest was done differently with a small live auction done by Jason LeBlanc, a silent auction, and a 50/50.
The event was MC’d by Trevor Gowan who has been with Lobsterfest from the beginning.
“He is a lot of fun, keeping everyone engaged as he knows the area and businesses,” said Orsted.
Chef David Powell and his wife MaryLynn came from Indian Head to cook and serve this year’s meal per usual.
“They are the leaders of our supper. Dave is well known for his Lobsterfest venue, cooking and prep staff was Shaun, Jaxson and Kruze Orsted,” said Orsted.
Orsted says they received a lot of support from the business community and surrounding area.
“We can’t thank them enough,” said Orsted. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to have both a silent and live auction.”
“We also had some amazing people donate personal donations, like our “Pie Man” Dennis Feduk, he brought two pies for the auction and brought in $2000,” continued Orsted.
“Duncan Brown donated a flight tour of Moose Mtn Provincial Park, Dave and Shelley Slykhuis for a batch of “Dickens Famous” corn chowder. Every little bit helps no matter big or small and it’s appreciated.”
Orsted also wanted to thank Garth, Brock and Tyra Newell for running the bar, and Sandy Debusschere and Kim Rubbert for building the bar at the last minute.
“It takes a lot of work pre-
paring and canvassing for the fundraiser before the actual day. We would like to thank all the businesses and people for their donations, the RM office for helping with ticket sales, all our volunteers for the day of the supper without them it wouldn’t have been such a successful event,” said Orsted.
This year’s Lobsterfest sold 188 tickets for supper but had ordered enough for 215 people. They live auctioned the extra lobster and clam chowder plus the live auction had 20 items auctioned that brought in $18,000 and the silent auction also had 20 items bringing in $3,400. The 50/50 take home was $1,050 this year.
In total Lobsterfest raised $26,000 thanks to everyone who purchased supper tickets and took part in the auction.
The Carlyle District Fire Department will also be raising money for equipment with their Summer BBQ.
Just under 200 people enjoyed this year’s Lobsterfest organized by Carlyle District Fire Department.
Gordon F Kells High School athletes PAGE 5
Community Calendar
Your first stop to find events happening in our community!
July
July 8 , 15, 22, 29 – Kenosee Bingo – see Classified Page
Fri to Sun, July 11-13 - Bear Claw Casino & Hotel White Bear First Nations Powwow
Mon to Fri, July 14-18 - Eyes – Educating Youth in Engineering and Science
Tues to Sat - Mar 25 -29
– 125th Arcola Curling Club Bonspiel
*Do you have a community event you want listed here? Send us the name of the event, date, and what community it’s being held by emailing: observer@sasktel.net OR calling: (306) 453-2525.
A ‘Family Feud’ in Carievale
By Paul Kimball
The nine members of the Carievale Cemetery Committee were pondering how they could raise funds to maintain, upkeep and even upgrade their cemetery. A recent lottery fundraiser had provided funding for a lot of that, but stipulations had prevented money being raised to provide wages or stipend to pay personnel to do the maintaining, etc.
One day, a couple of the committee members were in the garage of a former committee member, building some tables. As they worked, a TV was on, providing background entertainment. A knockoff of the popular game, Family Feud, was airing, and that got the thought process going even further.
“Why not have a ‘Family Feud Fundraiser’?
the committee thought about this, the more exciting the idea became. It would be a great way to raise funds, plus it would make for an entertaining evening for the community who, in the past, has been very supportive of the new ideas that committees have brought forward.
The date was picked – June 20th – and the planning for Family Feud Carievale began. It ended up being a great evening at the Carievale Community Hall.
Twelve teams of five individuals signed up to play. Consisting of family and friends, each team was encouraged to adopt a ‘theme’.
eer, Lee McMillen.
The format of the show saw each team play one round. The top two teams went on to a final round. The winning team was the BEMCK Family.
The top four teams, the successful bidders and the Cemetery Committee split the Calcutta pool. All the teams, though, were awarded various prizes. Some of the winning bidders really got into the spirit of the evening…they donated their winnings back to the committee.
The DJ, along with his assistant, Garth, kept
everyone entertained with his questions and quick wit. This was the first time Kerr had led a Family Feud event where the contestants came in theme. He enjoyed it so much that he planned to include the ‘themed idea’ in his repertoire of events to suggest to future clients. They, along with many others, including the game participants, are already looking forward to a sequel in Carievale.
So keep an eye out… Family Feud Carievale, round two, is already in the planning stages.
The former member mentioned that he had a DJ friend who was an expert in hosting game shows – Trevor Kerr of Kerrs Bouncers and Inflatables. The more
The themes were varied. Some chose the 1980’s, other chose TV shows like Three’s Company, while others came as celebrities. Each team appointed a captain who tried to convince the rest of those attending that their team was the best. Individuals then went on to bid generously (a Calcutta) on the teams, directed by local auction-
The BEMCK family, winners of the Family, along with emcee Trevor Kerr. Photo courtesy of Angie Cliffe
Two team captains…ready
Stoughton Class of 2025 has a full house at celebration
By Stephanie Zoer
As parents, friends and neighbours slowly filled the Stoughton Central School gymnasium the ceremony for the 2025 graduation began.
The 11 students were escorted to the stage by their parents through a hallow of black, gold and white decorations, while Louise Big Eagle took photos.
The ceremony took place on June 21 in front of a full house that had standing room only.
Joan Dempsey was the MC for the event. She had been a long-time secretary at the school before she retired.
She introduced each graduate as they entered the gymnasium, telling a little of their history and what they have loved about school.
Once everyone had arrived, the Ocean Man First Nation (OMFN) Drum Group came to the front to sing the Honour song, this was followed by the singing of O’ Canada.
Alexa Frederiksen and Anna Knapp had a tribute to the parents, thanking them for all the years of getting them ready for school, bringing them to events, and making their endless lunches.
They thanked them for their endless love, and they are forever grateful.
Juanita and Jason Big Eagle had the parents reply.
The couple took turns speaking but the message was clear, that moms are their children’s first teachers and they are the ones who cry when their children start school, and they cry once again when their children graduate.
They are proud of the young people that they have become and hope that their future will be bright and filled with good things.
Grayson Clements and Trey Malowski thanked the teachers for getting them to graduation, and for their tireless efforts on teaching them, when at times it was most likely not easy and that they
gave the teachers some extra gray hair.
Shelley Campbell, principal at the Stoughton Central School, joked about having more gray hair with this group of graduates.
In seriousness she said that they were the easiest students to have and were always agreeable on everything they were handed.
The program continued with Chayse Hemphill giving the vote of thanks to all who have been in their lives.
Stoughton Mayor Stefen Clarke told the students that this new chapter in their lives is exciting, but they need to look
after themselves.
It is family and the community that shape students, and it is important to keep a connection to where one grows up.
Chief Ernest Standingready, the new chief from Ocean Man First Nation, also said that woman are the first teachers and play an important role in children’s lives.
The Star Blanket was made especially for Bronte Big Eagle, and it signifies the creator and the stars, and loved ones before us, this is why the blanket is wrapped around the student.
Bronte Big Eagle is a published author and
plans to become a plumber, while Jhett Brigden has a passion for hockey, dirt bikes and is taking a year off school.
Grayson Clements loves to hunt and will obtain his work visa for Ireland, and Joseph Elek loves fishing, and rock climbing and works for the Town of Stoughton.
Brighton Coderre plans to become an electrician and received awards and scholarships from the Stoughton Lions Club, Stoughton Legion, Stoughton Cooperatives, Stoughton Chamber of Commerce and the R.M. of Tecumseh.
Alexa Frederiksen has
A midnight swim at Oxbow
By Paul Kimball
Sadie Smith became the manager of the Oxbow Swimming Pool this year. She worked at the
pool last summer and remembered an event that finished off the season –a midnight swim.
She thought, “Why not have one to kick off sum-
mer this year? Why not have one to celebrate the end of school?”
On June 26th, that’s exactly what happened. From 8:30 p.m. until half past midnight, the pool was opened for public swimming. Thanks to a grant from the Community Initiative Fund, the 70 swimmers received glow stick glasses and headbands to light the place up after the sun set.
a love for sports and will be the assistant junior volleyball coach, and Trey Malowski said to always respect your parents and has plans to become a conversation officer.
Chayse Hemphill has always enjoyed sports which included volleyball and basketball. He was a key player on the team.
Anna Knapp said life is about who you are, not what people think you are and she received a scholarship from Stoughton Vegetarian Services.
Sarah Goudy was the valedictorian and will study for her General Agriculture in Manitoba, and received scholar-
ships from the Stoughton Lions Club, Stoughton Legion, Stoughton Cooperative, Moose Mountain Wildlife Federation, R.M. of Tecumseh, Stoughton Community Council, Dan Sukutko and Ernest Poole Award.
Reid Goudy will obtain his Class 1A driver’s licence and become a mechanic. He received the Stoughton Tecumseh Fire Department Scholarship and the R.M. of Tecumseh.
The evening came to an end with a procession of the students leaving the gymnasium, with Joan Dempsey making a few closing remarks.
Swimming Pool
Even though everyone was invited to stay the whole evening, most of the younger kids headed home for bed around 10 p.m. and the older kids, mostly teens, began arriving after 10 p.m. A few adults even joined in for the festivities. The grant also enabled the purchase of items to be awarded as prizes – balls, flippers and goggles. They were won
in various games, such as diving competitions where divers received prizes for the biggest and smallest splashes. Other prizes were given to those who could stay under water the longest following their dive. It was an enjoyable evening. The staff are looking forward to holding additional events at the pool throughout the summer.
The Stoughton graduating class of 2025 is, left to right, Bronte Big Eagle, Jhett Brigden, Sarah Goudy, Brighton Coderre, Grayson Clements, Alexa Frederiksen, Joseph Elek, Reid Goudy, Anna Knapp, Chayse Hemphill and Trey Malowski. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Swimmers enjoying the deep end of the pool. Photo courtesy of Sadie Smith
Views
Technology can be difficult
Two weeks ago, I took my computer and sat down in the comfort of my living room to write my last two articles for the paper.
I always sit in the living room and write; I find it very relaxing and this way I can be with my family.
I opened my computer to a message that said, “There was an error, please restart your computer.”
I restarted my computer which seemed to take a great deal of time, but eventually it started up, and jumped to my home page.
Here we go, I thought. I went to the page that I needed and proceeded to print it off.
I walked over to the printer, and it quit halfway through the page. Back to the computer I went, and my screen was black.
My daughter told me the computer made a weird sound, so I restarted the computer again.
This time it turned on and went straight to the page I was working on, but my curser was nowhere to be found on the page.
On the internet I go to see what I did wrong and to find the way to relocate the arrow.
Following the instructions I do as the internet told me, my whole screen starts to jiggle, and parts of the screen have disappeared.
My whole computer is frozen, so I turn it off, and reboot it, by this time I am beginning to get frustrated as I do not have the patience for this.
My daughter who knows me oh too well, asked if this might be a sewing machine episode.
She had to bring up the sewing machine which I remember like yesterday, but it happened over 25 years ago.
I have sewn many things such as wedding dresses, gowns, baby clothes and suits.
I had an older sewing machine, and I was working on a suit jacket for a client.
My sewing machine was acting up, so I brought it in for repair, and a week later it was ready to take home.
I got a scrap piece of material, and the machine seemed to work well, so I got the suit jacket and started doing the top stitching only to have the machine do the same thing it did last time, but worse.
I tried several times, and it just got worse, I was choked and very frustrated.
I am not a violent person, but I took the machine outside and dropped it on the cement pad. I walked to the shop and got the general persuader which is our 10-pound sledgehammer and fixed the machine.
When my husband got home, he asked why the general was standing at the back door, and I simply said in a calm voice, “I fixed my sewing machine.”
It is one way to get a new sewing machine, although I do not recommend it.
My daughter thought the same fate might happen with my computer, and I was tempted to do the same but kept myself under control.
Instead, I brought it in to be repaired, as I have too many things on this computer to be messing with it.
The computer was not fixable, do not ask me for the details as I could not tell you, I just know it was not repairable.
The young man, Nathan at House of Stationary was amazing. He set up my new computer, showed me everything I needed to know and told me I could call anytime.
So, once again here I sit in my living room with my family, on my new computer, writing my first article on it.
It has a few new bells and whistles, but nothing fancy, if it does what I need it to do, it should be safe from the general persuader.
Don’t waste time
“We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.”
During a YouTube video by a political commentator an ad popped up. Ads are part of YouTube of course, but this one was downright disturbing. A well-known former talk show host who has very publicly shared her battle with weight issues, was featured in a video hawking a miracle drink promising rapid weight loss. The scam has apparently been quite successful. One investigator said, “These ads are not just misleading, they’re dangerous.” The AI-generated videos make it look like celebrities such as Oprah use and endorse the product.
The videos are well made. Lip movements are synced well to the script, and the voices sound very much like the real thing. But they are fake. All fake.
Then there is the video that appears to be from our prime minister. It wasn’t as well done but a quick glance might have some thinking he was legitimately endorsing
an investment platform. It was just a couple of months ago Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said to beware of scammers using his face to sell cryptocurrency.
The scammers seem to keep getting better at what they do, while at the same time the general public isn’t sharpening their Spidey sense. We get bombarded with images, stories and ads that look and sound plausible, but are the creation of those looking to make big money or shape opinion. In the barrage and noise of it all, I wonder if we are losing our ability to be at all discerning.
Putting false or misleading content into the public sphere can have serious consequences. It’s done to advance an agenda. So unless the consumer is willing to double or triple check sources, it is quite easy to be led astray. Fake stories often gain traction quite quickly and can lead to a distortion of the issue. Once it’s out there, it’s very hard to correct. On the other hand, the truth is often not nearly as captivating, and since the goal is to get eyeballs on products, the sensational sells much better.
Nine out of ten Canadians say they have fallen for fake news online, a rate higher than the international average at 87% and the North American rate of 86% according to
an international public opinion poll. It further found that 89% of Canadians distrust social media and believe the dissemination of fake news through these sources has negatively affected Canadian politics and conversation. While a high percentage feel they know where to point the finger of blame, the tougher question is what we are going to do about it.
A majority of Canadians want social media companies to take action to combat it, while a smaller percentage wants governments to step in and “publicly shame those who post fake news.” In order to do anything about it though, people need to know how to spot it in the first place, and regrettably that isn’t something we are very good at. The Survey of Online Harms in Canada found that almost half of respondents were unable to identify a series of misinformation statements they were presented with. Half of us report that we can’t be bothered to fact check.
Creating and disseminating this content has become big business. It’s an industry of its own. Individuals are paid to write these fake stories or AI is used to generate clickbait to drive more eyeballs to the websites. Any time there’s money to be made, scammers will stop at nothing to line their pock-
ets. They care little about who is getting hurt in the process.
The posting of false information about health, politics, the environment, world leaders and celebrities is happening daily. Whether we wish to admit it or not, it is affecting the way people think, vote and form opinions. It is not going to get any better. In fact, it will just keep getting tougher to spot fact from fiction as agendas are spun and the lure of the dollars extends its grip. But we shouldn’t for one moment think we are powerless in this. Not in the least.
Much of what is false is designed to trigger an emotional response so that we share it quickly, without second thought or any fact checking. That needs to stop. We need to read. To consider. To discern. To check other sources. Then double check. Is this putting a lot of pressure on the consumer of information? You bet it does. It is time-consuming and frustrating. But it is becoming more and more necessary. We need to be active in discerning what is real and what requires skepticism because we are in an all-out assault. However, we have the most amazing weapon of all to bring to this battle—the human brain. Simply put, we need to put it to work. That’s my outlook.
- Nelson Mandela
Shelley Luedtke
Gordon F Kells High School send 19 athletes to provincial meet
By Kaitlynn Nordal
The Gordon F Kells High School track and field team did well this season with 19 athletes competing in the SHSAA provincial track and field meet the first weekend of June in Moose Jaw.
The season, which started at the end of March, was a lot of hard work for those who participated.
“Once we could get outside, I provided practice every day at 3:30 and 6. I am a strong believer in multi-sport athletes, so I did not want my athletes to have to choose between doing track or playing ball. I provide practice time every day to work around their schedule,” said Head Coach Shelley Sargent.
The 2025 season had a total of 43 athletes in grades 7 to 12 competing in track and field this year.
“This is the highest number that I have had on a team,” said Sargent. “That was an exciting start to the season.”
This year Sargent took 19 athletes to provincials -11 of them having never gone before- went to provincials in Moose Jaw.
“Last year I took eight athletes to provincials so taking 19 this year was very exciting,” said Sargent.
“I have athletes who have never done track before this year,” continued Sargent. “As you build the team and the environment around it other kids try it which is great to see.”
Sargent is proud of how well everyone did.
“Every track season I say to my athletes I don’t care what place you finish as long as you have done and strive for your best at every meet. I have a very hard-working group, so I knew the potential was there,” said Sargent. “I am very proud of all my athletes. A lot of time was put into practicing (so) it was nice to see their hard work pay off.”
The provincial meet had up to 28 athletes from around Saskatchewan competing in each event. Those athletes finishing in the top 16 in their event earned points for their school. The Carlyle athletes fin-
ished with 112.5 points, finishing sixth out of 49 teams in the 3A category.
Various Carlyle athletes finished in the top 16 in their various events throughout the weekend. Friday morning saw Darius Dixon finishing 11th in Intermediate Boys Triple Jump and Hayden Miller finishing 14th in Senior Boys Discus. In track, Alix Rae finished fifth in Intermediate Girls 100m, Karsyn Gervais was 14th in the Senior Girls 100m and Sawyer Tomaszewski finished 10th in the Senior Boys 100m Hurdles. Liam Thompson was competing in the Junior Boys Quad which consisted of
Rain holds off for the Arcola Fair
By Stephanie Zoer
The forecast for June 21 was going to be a washout for the Arcola Fair, but when the day arrived the weather seemed to cooperate with the activities.
The day started off with a pancake breakfast at the fairgrounds sponsored by the R.M. of Brock, after this people slowly began to line up on Main Street to watch the parade.
The decline in numbers compared to previous years was attributed by participants to the weather forecast made earlier in the week.
This did not stop the antique tractors, businesses and ponies coming down the street and throwing candy.
competing in 100m, Shot Put, Long Jump, and 800m earning points in each event based on your time or distance. He ended with a total of 2277 points and became the Junior Boys Quad Provincial Champion.
On Friday night Rae finished 15th in Intermediate Girls Long Jump. Chase Himmelspach received the bronze medal in Senior Boys Javelin with a throw of 47.23 metres.
On Saturday morning Dane Peterson became the provincial champion in Senior Boys Shot Put with 14.10 metres on his last attempt. Rae finished 10th in Intermediate Girls Triple Jump and Tomaszewski finished 14th in Senior Boys Triple Jump. Karsyn Gervais finished eighth in Senior Girls Long Jump and 16th in the 200m. Tenley Gervais finished 14th in Intermediate Girls Javelin. Myles Lequyer finished ninth in Junior Boys 800m.
The provincial meet ended with the relay finals. The South East district intermediate relay teams advanced to the final after the morning heats. Joseph Hubalde and Dixon were a part of the Intermediate Boys 4 x 100m relay team and ended up finishing fourth overall. Rae ran on the Intermediate Girls 4 x 100m relay team which finished fourth.
Between their success this year and knowing two of her athletes graduated this year, Sargent is looking forward to the next track season already.
“I am excited to see what next year’s track and field team looks like and what the future holds for us,” said Sargent.
The Cattle Show was rescheduled the day before.
Cattlemen and Fair members converted the Hitchin Post into an impressive cattle ring for the Steer and Heifer Show.
The show featured a variety of colourful and diverse breeds.
The Arcola Ag Hall showcased sewing, art, schoolwork, and home preserves. Close to $1,000 was handed out in prize money
with over 300 entries.
The new food booth attracted many people with its famous burgers, and volunteers ensured quick moving lines.
A new event that was to take place was the Arcola Hocks and Horns; it was
postponed until July 5.
Postponing an event is a necessary decision when conditions become unsafe due to the speed at which horses and riders are moving.
A kids’ zone with various activities was set up
at the Arcola Prairie Complex. The event was well attended, as was the Ice Cream Canteen with Arcola Daycare. Another event was the
trade show held in the pavilion. Local artists presented their designs and creations for sale.
Over 40 silent auction items, donated by local and area businesses, were displayed in the pavilion.
Moody Hollow was cancelled, so they held a karaoke night and invited everyone to sing.
The day was a success with crowds enjoying the parade, cattle show, and various attractions at the Arcola Fair.
(Back Row L-R) David Kostal, Hunter Colpitts, Hayden Miller, Dane Peterson, Chase Himmelspach, Liam Thompson, Sawyer Tomaszewski, Darius Dixon, Ryder Benjamin. (Front Row L- R) Sayde Johnson, Amara Lees, Tenley Gervais, Layla Shire, Alix Rae, Karsyn Gervais, and Myles Lequyer take a team picture during the SHSAA provincial track and field meet in Moose Jaw. Missing: Joseph Hubalde, Kirsten East, Mitchell Widdifield. Photo contributed
Arcola’s parade featured many antique tractors from local residents. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Lampman time capsule revealed surprises after 25 years
By Stephanie Zoer
Twenty-five years ago, the Lampman School closed a time capsule, and on June 23, its contents were revealed. It took place at the Lampman School in the gymnasium.
The ceremony started with the singing of O’ Canada in front of approximately 65 attendees, followed by a moment of silence for those who were no longer present.
Going back in time, it was the year 2000, and
the teachers wanted to do something special and this is when it all began. They first wanted to build a gazebo on the school yard, and through hard work and dedication it came to be. The gazebo still stands tall and proud on the south-east side of the school.
The trees planted when the gazebo was built did not survive. A large rock with “2000” etched on it was placed by the structure.
Large flagstones formed a distinctive entrance to the gazebo.
TOWN OF ALAMEDA WATERWORKS & SEWER WORKS ANNUAL FINANCIAL OVERVIEW For the Year 2024
The Drinking Water Quality and Compliance Report, and other information on the Town of Alameda Water & Sewage Works, as required under the Municipalities Regulations, is available for viewing at the Town Office. The total combined water & sewer work revenue for 2024 was $155,850 while total expenditures were $159,211 Comparison of water & sewage works revenues to expenditures expressed as a ratio is 0.98 For 2024, water & sewage works revenues covered 98% of the total expenditures
In 2024, the Turbidity at the Water Treatment Plant was between 0.07 and 0.29
Do you know where to find CREDIBLE INFORMATION?
It ’s not always easy to separate fac t from fic tion, or distinguish real news from fake.
A special guest in the crowd was taught in kindergarten by Cherilyn Gress.
Derrick Pouliot happened to be home with his family, Amanda, his wife and their two sons Landon and Lane, so they joined the celebration.
Pouliot plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning’s farm team, the Syracuse Crunch.
He played for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2012 and was part of the team when they secured the Stanley Cup a few years later.
In 2000, each classroom filled a decorative pringles tin and filled them with personal items.
When the tins were opened 25 years later, they contained pictures, growth charts, favourite toys and the older kids added more detailed messages.
Letters contained what they might be doing in 2025, what kind of job they might hold and where they would be living.
Inside was also a Sears Catalog, a Leader Post paper, and the Observer newspaper.
A touching moment was when they came across a letter from Blaine Bangsund.
Blaine, diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy in kindergarten, was in Grade 3 when his letter and that of his friend Brendan Fornwald were placed in the tin. Blaine passed away at the
age of twenty-two.
The teachers from 2000 gave their tin of coins to the next group for a time capsule to be opened in 2050.
Before the event concluded, Julie Greening from the School Community Council addressed the crowd with an announcement.
They had received a $50,000 donation from Kingston Midstream, and Tundra Oil and Gas matched this donation with another $50,000 donation for improvements to the school grounds.
ativity, including a shaded section with multiple trees, as well as a walking track.
They also hope to have an outdoor learning space, and room for baseball.
This was great news for the parents who attended.
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The Playground Revitalization Committee have envisioned a better playground for the school, which will include but not limited to, a multisport court for tennis and pickleball.
The facility will feature designated areas for cre-
All individuals were allowed to examine the contents of the time capsule. It was especially interesting to the older students. At the conclusion of the program, refreshments were provided.
Twenty-five years have passed and this group from the Lampman School is still all smiles. Back left to right, Boyd Sephton, Bill Morrell, Yvonne Campbell, Alane Seeman, Michele Walter, and Ed Fieber. Front left to right, Christine Fornwald, Nadine Deitz, Holly Barabash, Cherilyn Gress, Joanne Waugh, Edith Lischka and Sharon Sephton. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
These teachers from the past were excited about opening the time capsules. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
From left to right, Derrick Pouliot from NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning and his two sons, Landon and Lane, along with his wife Amanda attended as special guests at the time capsule opening. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Carnduff Education Complex celebrates 47 graduates
By Paul Kimball
On the evening of June 26th, the Carnduff Education Complex held a graduation ceremony for 47 graduates. There have been larger graduation classes – some remember one where 51 took the stage – but this was the largest in a long time.
Principal Ryan Nichols and Vice Principal Michelle Wolf emceed the ceremony is front of a large audience that filled the school gym, with many having to stand for the hour-long event. They were more than simply emcees – Ryan had a daughter and Michelle had a son among the graduates on stage. That added to the emotions that an evening like this typically brings.
Once the graduates had been introduced and taken their seats onstage, one of the graduates, Chrislie Marianne Avenido sang our national anthem. It was a busy evening for Miss Avenido. Not only did she sing O Canada, but she was also this year’s valedictorian and an escort of another graduate.
Mr. Nichols and Mrs. Wolf followed the anthem with a few opening remarks. They asked the assembled crowd to ‘excuse the tears’ that were likely to come as they pre-
sented scrolls (diplomas) to their children later in the evening. They expressed the fact that what they had to say came with no help from the students or ChatGPT and that, as school administrators, they had the privilege of having front-row seats in watching the development of the graduates over the years. They encouraged the class ‘to celebrate who you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re going.’ They wrapped their message up by saying that the evening was not a case of simply sending out students, but sending out the future…and
future food bills!
The students were then presented with their scrolls, scholarships and bursaries. Several students were the recipients of awards…a number of them received multiple awards, including Karley Halliday, Leta Schulz and Rihanna Swayze. The graduates and award-winners were introduced by Ryan…the scrolls and awards were handed out by Michelle. Michelle received a hug from a number of the graduates, but she initiated an additional one when presenting the scroll to her son Taddeus. (It also led her to fan
herself with her hands and dip into the tissue box). Ryan, who had remained behind the podium throughout the presentations, did step away to hand out a hug of his own after introducing his daughter, Anesa. Miss Avendido was then called upon to deliver her valedictory address. She earned the right to be this year’s valedictorian with her 96% average (which also made her the winner of the Governor General’s Academic Medal). Ryan noted that while others were busy putting the finishing touches in the week leading up to this year’s graduation ceremony, Miss Avenido was
going through the process to become a Canadian citizen. As she showed by singing the national anthem, she is dedicated to her new country Her speech included giving thanks to her parents, friends and teachers. She spoke about advice that one of her teachers, Kevin LaBelle gave her – ‘fill the space you’re given.’ As she brought her address to an end, she provided some advice of her own – ‘being the best is not the goal…doing your best is’.
Following her message, the graduates left the stage, the screen came down and a slide show took place. Each student was shown, along with
a quote or a piece of advice. For example, when Anesa Nichols’ picture was shown, her quote was ‘Most people fear the principal…I had supper with him every night!’ The evening ended with each graduate being introduced one final time, with their escort. They took part in the Grand March – walking throughout the gym for several moments, receiving congratulations from the assembled crowd. They then headed outdoors, where the graduates hopped up onto flatbeds for a parade to flaunt their achievement to the whole community – an achievement that was worth celebrating.
The stage was filled with graduates of the Carnduff Education Complex. Photo by Paul Kimball
It is with deep love and heavy hear ts that we announce the passing of Elaine Margaret Blake (Thomas) on October 31, 2024, at the age of 74 Bor n on October 4, 1950, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Elaine was the cher ished daughter of Slim and Isabelle Thomas Elaine was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and fr iend She marr ied the love of her life Dale Blake on July 15,1972, a day she would often recall as one of her fondest memor ies Together they built a beautiful life centred on love, laughter and family Elaine was a proud and loving mother to Michael Blake and her greatest pr ide came later in life watching Mike raise their treasured granddaughter, Jaslynn A passionate and dedicated elementar y school teacher, Elaine spent 30 years shaping young minds with kindness, patience, and an unwaver ing belief in the value of education She brought war mth and compassion into ever y classroom she entered and left an endur ing impact on her communit y Elaine lived by what she fondly called the "Three T's"Teaching, Travel, and Time with fr iends and family She embraced life's adventures, cher ished winters spent with family and fr iends in the sunshine and found joy in ever y moment These included her weekly games of Mahjong in Ar izona and back home in Swift Current and time spent on the golf course, where she proudly achieved a hole in one in Sur pr ise, Ar izona
Her sense of humour and uncanny luck at card games, brought laughter to many gather ings But more than anything, it was her Deep Connections with people that defined her Elaine was one of the most selfless and giving souls - always ready with a kind word, a helping hand or comfor ting presence Elaine's family extends our sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Cypress Regional Hospital and Clover House in Swift Current A special thank you to Dr Lund and Dr Flora who looked after Elaine in such a car ing and loving way for several years
A celebration of Elaine's life will be held at 2:00 p m on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the Memor ial Hall in Car lyle, Saskatchewan All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that a donation can be made in Elaine s memor y to the Legion Hall in Swift Current Stars Air Ambulance or char it y of their choice if so desired Arrangements have been entr usted to Warrens Funeral Home in Swift Current Saskatchewan
It is with heavy hear ts that we announce the passing of Larr y Luver ne Langedahl on December 4, 2024 in Edmonton, Alber ta, at the age of 78 Larr y was bor n on Januar y 28 1946 in Estevan Saskatchewan and lived his life with strong wester n roots He was known for his love for his family, passion for his horses, far m life and the cowboy way Larr y was the oldest of 4 children of Eileen and Edwin Edwin passed when Larr y was just 5 and Eileen taught school and raised the family Larr y spoke fondly of his siblings and many cousins and had many a stor y to tell of their fun adventures, usually involving horses Larr y spent much of his life in the Estevan and Edmonton areas wor king in the oil industr y in Alber ta and enjoying a life with his horse business Larr y’s life was full of adventures He spent many summers racing chuckwagons and char iots across Saskatchewan, Alber ta, Manitoba and the United States He also spent a few years travelling through the wester n U S putting on chuckwagon shows at rodeos He loved meeting all the people in his travels which made for good conversations in the later years Larr y spent time wor king cattle at his brother Lyle’s far m at Leduc He spent many years in Alber ta and had recently moved to Southey and was closer to Shelly and her family and enjoying helping with their horses Larr y had recently stated he had over 3000 head of horses that he bought, trained, rode, raced and later sold to good homes and to some of his competitors He had an eye for good horses Larr y bought his current horse Conan at 6 months old, now 18, and took Conan with him ever ywhere he went They were the best of fr iends and had a ver y special bond Larr y ser ved on the executive of several racing organizations he was par t of when racing Larr y was always willing to lend a helping hand and would share his extensive knowledge of horsemanship with many over the years Larr y will be remembered for his adventurous easy-going personalit y, love for his family, fr iends and his horses Larr y is sur vived by his daughter Shelly (Dean) Knaus; grandchildren: Rober t (Kar leen) Holoien and Br ittany (Cameron) Doer ksen and great grandchildren: Peyton and Jacob Doer ksen; sisters: Carol Buchanan (Bud) and Louise Kozlowski; brother Lyle Langedahl, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and fr iends A graveside ser vice will be held at 1:00 p m on July 5, 2025 at Estevan Cit y Cemeter y, Estevan, Sask All who knew Larr y are welcome to attend In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hear t and Stroke Foundation or make a kind gesture for someone, just because He is deeply missed and lovingly remembered
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Obituaries
Obituaries
BUSINESS & SERVICEDIRECTORY
DL AE LE CT RI
Ever yone
Wigglyfish
Cutwood, again
26. Hem 27. Pipe joints
28. BLTspread 29. View 31. Dangerous cur ves 35. Roughen 40. Laid-back 42. Inky implement 44. Grates 46. Enrage 48. Building overhang
49. Special nights 50. Breathe hard
Small dog 52. Bitter anger
Colonyinsect
ACROSS
ACROSS
1. Grand celebration
1. Grand celebration
5. Kitchen head
21. Plantagain 23. Behind schedule
34. Corrosive substances
DOWN
1. Outfit
9. Automotive fuel
36.Price mark 37. Alkaline substance
5.Kitchen head
27. Givesfor th 30. Itty-bitty
38. Hitthe jackpot
9. Automotive fuel
12. Former spouses
13.Angel’s crown
14. Beer
12. Former spouses
15. Expression of regret
39. Puff away
32.Dominated
41. DaytimeT V
43. Consent 45. Botch
33. Youngster 34.Corrosive substances
13. Angel’s crown
14. Beer
16.Por table rain protec tion
18. Conver t
15. Expression of regret
20. Bard’swork
21. Plantagain
23.Behind schedule
47. Snoozing 51.Baby- grand players
55.Volcanic over flow
36. Pricemark 37. Alkaline substance
56. Coffee container
38. Hitthe jack pot
39.Puff away
27. Gives forth
16.Por table rain protec tion
18. Conver t
30. Itty-bitty
32. Dominated
57. Dancer ’s jump 58.Kitchen appliance
59. Learn 60. Outcomes
33. Youngster
20.Bard’swork
41.DaytimeT V 43. Consent 45. Botch
61. Cowboy countr y
3. Sheet ofpaper
4. Classify 5. Pals
47. Snoozing 51. Baby- grand players 55. Volcanic over flow 56. Coffee container
Being in debt
2. Car’swheel shaft
6. Showy ac tor 7.Nudged 8.Mustang maker
57. Dancer ’s jump 58. Kitchen appliance
59. Learn
9. Lassie 10. Ever yone 11. Baltic, e.g. 17. Wiggly fish
19. Cutwood, again 22. Being in debt
24.Choir voice
25. Furniture wood 26. Hem
HOWTOPLAY:
Choir voice
Furniture wood
Little bit
SCORPIO Don’tbeafraidtomakethe
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN Before
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO.1022
Fillinthe grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box containsthe numbers 1through 9only once. Each3x3 boxis outlinedwithadarker line.
Youalreadyhaveafew numbers to get you started.Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.
AQUARIUS
Cherishthe
PISCES
Take
