Former Moosomin Generals player signs with the Winnipeg Rifles
By Kaitlynn Nordal
6, 7, 8, 9, 12
The Moosomin Generals defensive back Spencer Hill has signed with the Winnipeg Rifles for the 2025/2026 season.
Hill has been playing football since Grade 8.
Hill started by playing flag football with the Moosomin General Football Program.
“It was a flag football weekend program,” explained Hill.
“I like the comradery of it,” said Hill. “I enjoy bonding with (my) teammates and getting to play the game I love. You can (also) hit people and not get in trouble for it,” said Hill cheekily.
In Grade 9 Hill played cornerback for the team and led the Rural Manitoba Football League in tackles being named rookie of the year. After that until now Hill mostly played defensive back.
It has been a lot of work on Hill’s part to make it to this point. Hill, who lives in Redvers would drive to Moosomin to play with the Moosomin Generals and to Moose Jaw to play with the Selects during winter and with their travel team.
Although Hill is sad to leave his current teammates he is looking forward to this next adventure.
“This year has been nice. It’s sad because you have to leave your high school teammates but it’s nice because you also get to meet a new branch of teammates through post-secondary. You get to meet so many new people,” said Hill.
“You learn to love the game so much more because there are so many people involved and you learn to appreciate everyone playing with you,” continued Hill.”
Hill has always wanted to play for the Winnipeg Rifles if given the chance.
“I went out to their training
camp. I must have impressed the coaches. I enjoyed the teammates and loved the coaches. It’s some of the best coaching I have had in years. I ended up fitting in with the entire program,” said Hill.
Being close to home and knowing people who played for the Rifles in the past helped with his decision
“I knew a lot of the guys,” said Hill. “I played against them in high school.”
At the end of May the Winnipeg Rifles confirmed with Hill they wanted to formally sign him. Hill then formally signed his contract with the Winnipeg Rifles at the beginning of June.
“I knew this was a great experience and that I had to prepare to play for them,” said Hill. “I can hopefully develop through their program with their coaches. I look forward to playing with them and improving myself as a
player and person.”
Hill will be a wide receiver with the Rifles and is looking forward to trying a new position.
“In Grade 9 I had aspirations to play receiver but they moved me to DB in Moosomin, so I was playing (that position) until Grade 12,” said Hill. “This year the Rifles moved me to wide receiver, and I thought I’d like to try it,” said Hill.
Rifles President Dale Driedger, left, Spencer Hill, middle, and Rifles Head Coach Geordie Wilson, right, formally sign Hill’s contract to play with the Rifles. Photo contributed
Great Grad Gifts!
Subway celebrates grand re-opening in Carnduff
By Paul Kimball
It has been a popular place over the years and is home to one of Carnduff’s ‘Coffee Colleges’ where people congregate daily for coffee and solve the world’s problems. Recently, with the parent company upgrad-
ing their look, the local franchise was told that it had to renovate to reflect the new image. So, for the first time in 22 years, Subway closed its doors to make those changes. For a couple of weeks, it was out with the old and in with the new. The restaurant underwent a
major overhaul. A new sub counter, new tables and chairs, new paint job, new signage – it ended up with very little in common to the old look.
Community Calendar
Your first stop to find events happening in our community!
June
June 27, 28 & 29 – Carlyle Fun Dayz & Fair
July
Fri – Sun, July 11 -13 - White Bear Powwow
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
2026
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.
The Drinking Water Quality and Compliance Report, and other information on the Village of Storthoaks Water & Sewage Works, as required under the Municipalities Regulations, is available for viewing at the Village Office. The total combined water & sewage work revenue for 2024 was $30,402.00 while total expenditures were $20,689.34 Comparison of water & sewage works revenues to expenditures expressed as a ratio is 1.4694. For 2024, water & sewage works revenues covered 146.94% of the total expenditures. In 2024, the Turbidity at the Water Treatment Plant was between .10 and .36.
June 14th was the grand re-opening. Special discounts were given… free cookies were handed out…and balloons were in abundance. The public had an opportunity to see…and taste…the ‘new and improved’ Subway.
Owner Tammy Evans spent part of the day at the restaurant. “I’m excited about the new look,” she said.
And the area around Carnduff is excited about sinking their teeth into those fresh Subway subs again.
Spencer Hill signs with Winnipeg Rifles
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“I have skills that a receiver might need but I thought it’s something to work on and a way I can improve myself and my skills in the game,” continued Hill.
This is not a scholarship University of Manitoba where Hill hopes to study in the health science program but a year-to-year contract with the Rifles.
“I am going to see how it goes,” said Hill. ‘I hope to meet new people and have some new experiences.”
Hill is excited for this opportunity but credits his previous football experience for this opportunity.
“The last four years with the Generals and the Selects program has helped me improve myself as a player,” said Hill. “That (then) helped me with the Winnipeg Rifles. They gave me a chance moving me from DB to receiver and I look forward to playing there.”
Subscribe to our newsletter today! VILLAGE OF STORTHOAKS WATERWORKS & SEWAGE WORKS ANNUAL FINANCIAL OVERVIEW For the Year 2024
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Subway staff, left to right, Gilda Carnduff, Cohen Farr and Randy Sayson eager to serve from their new ‘sub centre’. Photo by Paul Kimball
Spencer Hill has been playing football since the eighth grade and is looking forward to playing with the Winnipeg Rifles. Photo contributed
Notice Nature teams up with local libraries for lessons on the outdoors
By Kaitlynn Nordal
Notice Nature has partnered with local libraries to offer programming to teach children about all thing’s nature.
The Notice Nature program started in 2021 to connect with nature during the pandemic.
“This program was created based on the understanding that community involves more than people and how we could still support people connecting with their natural community to promote positive physical and mental health,” said Alana Gunsch program manager for the Notice Nature.
“As our world moves into a more urban and technology-focused lifestyle, the opportunity to connect directly with our natural environment and food production is diminished. This program engages participants to reignite that connection,” continued Gunsch. “Notice Nature gets people
outdoors to look up, look around and notice nature, this we believe is the first step to connection with our natural environment, and land and water stewardship.”
The libraries were a natural fit for the delivery of the Notice Nature program.
“Libraries are in every Saskatchewan community even the most remote northern communities. They offer a safe, inclusive, accessible location for participants to participate,” said Gunsch.
“Without the partnerships with Saskatchewan libraries wide distribution of the Notice Nature program would not have been possible,” continued Gunsch. “This started with the generous offer from our local regional Library Regions Lakeland and Wapiti to distribute and deliver the program through all of their branches and has since expanded across Saskatchewan.”
The program is centred on the Notice Nature Passport, a small (4X5.5 inches) 48-page glossy booklet with a selection of practices to complete.
“There are 23 different topics, each with 16 associated practices to complete (over 400 activities/observations to
Letter to the Editor
Surprise…no surprise
Crews are serving the shoulders on Highway 9 North of Carlyle. Must be difficult for the signage people. Neighbours and friends have expressed frustration.
I was heading north when to my surprise, there was a 60km sign, well of the shoulder and leaning like it might fall over further into the ditch, but clearly visible when you got up to it in the traffic (I have photos). I cut the cruise and slowed down to 60km/hr.
I was surprised to see flashing light behind me and even more surprised when the office handed me a $320 speeding ticket.
I related my quick and only possible response and the lack of any signage beforehand.
He was sure there was other signage and assured me he would go back and look. He did not. He parked by the surprise sign. I did, and there were no construction or speed reduction warning signs.
He was gone when I got back to the sign and did not return my call (em, no surprise).
So, watch out for poor signage and speed traps in this area.
Paul Lebrun, Carlyle
pick from). While many are focused specifically on observing nature and developing environmental knowledge, many incorporate elements of the nature-human relationship as well,” said Gunsch.
The Passport’s other practices focus more on cultural knowledge.
“There are sections dedicated to community heritage, art in nature, Indigenous culture, and energy conservation,” said Gunsch.
Although the Passport can be completed on its own, Notice Nature has
also created a series of 15 Identification Guidebooks in the same small, handheld format.
The Passport includes an activity tracker.
“This is where participants can track how many activities and observations they have completed and for every 12 they may return to any participating library and select a recognition item,” said Gunsch.
Gunsch is grateful to every library that participated.
“This program would not exist without the collaboration of so many fantastic Saskatchewan organizations, working together creating content, distributing programming, and or providing funding to support the program,” said Gunsch.
The success of Notice Nature is another example of our community’s widespread commitment to community engagement, and land stewardship,” continued Gunsch.
“The Notice Nature team is thankful to have this opportunity to collaborate with fantastic partners and sponsors on this meaningful and unique initiative.”
One of the libraries that participated this year is the Carlyle Library.
“Notice Nature is funded through a grant and is a program running through many Southeast libraries.
“In the Carlyle Public Library, the kids love nature and earning prizes. With the start of the program, we immediately noticed a lot of excitement from our library kids as they roamed the outdoors, ticking off boxes as they completed activities. “I saw a ladybug!” “I played in the mud.” “I found three different types of tree bark.” Witnessing their joy as they experience nature has been wonderful,” said Naomi Twietmeyer’ the Carlyle branch’s librarian.
“The program has been so popular with our library kids that we have had to request more nature passports and prizes! That’s a big win in our book,’ continued Twietmeyer.
Twietmeyer’s summer student, Kassidy Schultz’s also raved about the program.
“I like to see the kids excited about the outdoors. Experiencing new things that they might not have thought to do before. I like to see them interpret the program in different ways; every kid had a different take on it,” said Schultz.
Why I love working on the job site with my husband
There is something incredibly special about working side by side with the person you love. Not just sharing a home and a life, but also a passion and a purpose.
For me, that experience comes alive every day when I work with my husband on the job site.
From the early morning coffee breaks to the last sweep of the day, we move through the rhythm of work together. It is more than just building things, it is about building our life, one project, one challenge, and one shared triumph at a time.
Working with my husband has deepened our relationship in ways I never expected.
On the job site we are equals and teammates. We each bring different strengths to the table, and we have learned how to complement each other’s skills.
Where I might be detail-oriented, he brings the big picture to the table along with the muscle and knowledge of the projects.
I have learned so much from him on how things work, why it is done a certain way and the best way things should be done.
There is a quiet trust that grows when you rely on each other in both love and labour.
Whether we are lifting heavy materials, planning out the next stage of a build, or handling unexpected curveballs, we face it together; after all, that is what a good team does.
That shared responsibility makes every accomplishment feel even more meaningful.
Job sites are not always glamorous. There is dirt, noise, long hours, and unexpected problems, but somehow, when we are working together, it all feels worthwhile.
Even the tough days end with a sense of pride. Tomorrow is a new day, and everything will fall into place.
There is a lot of laughter in the chaos, small moments of encouragement, and an unspoken understanding that we are in it for each other.
Sometimes we catch each other in the moment with a glance across the job site, a shared joke while measuring a wall, and I am reminded how lucky I am.
We are not just co-workers or spouses; we are a team in the truest sense.
Every job teaches us something new and every job I am reminded of how knowledgeable he is when it comes to the job.
Maybe we will learn a new technique, maybe it is patience, or maybe it is how to better communicate under pressure. But no matter what we learn, we learn it together.
That constant growth strengthens our bond and gives us new reasons to appreciate one another.
We always celebrate the wins, big or small, together.
A completed project is not just a job done, it is a testament to our teamwork, our resilience, and our shared dreams.
I know not everyone gets to work so closely with their partner, and I do not take it for granted.
It is a rare gift to be able to share both your work and your love with the same person. It is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
So yes, I love working on the job site with my husband. It is hard work, but it is also heart work.
Every day we build something, whether it be wood, metal or cement, we are also building trust, respect, laughter, and love.
And at the end of the day, when we wash off the dust, we talk about what we have planned for the following day and we look at what we have accomplished, I feel nothing but gratitude for the job, for the journey and most of all, for him.
Learn and teach
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Road trips, points of interest and the Indy 500 with a special kind of dad
My husband was a ‘girl dad’ long before it was reduced to a hashtag. The term refers to a father of girls who shows keen interest and involvement in their activities. It had been in use for a while but went viral after the death of Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna when a story was shared about his passion for being a girl dad. Other dads began sharing their stories at #girldad and it grew in use.
If I go back further I can declare my father was also very much a girl dad. My mom would often say that the sun rose and set on his girls. We felt very loved being raised by parents who supported our interests and ensured we had amazing opportunities at every turn.
I read a paper by a sociologist that started with the words; “I work with one of the most heartbroken groups of people in the world: fathers whose adult children want nothing to do with them.” It then described the confusion of fathers living with pain when they say they honestly don’t know what caused the estrangement with their
child.
While the author of the paper acknowledges the seismic impact abuse and addiction have on relationships, his focus was on what were otherwise healthy relationships that experienced unexplained estrangements—at least in the perception of the fathers studied.
The clinical research behind the paper concluded that there is little that binds adult children to their parents beyond whether or not the adult child wants that relationship. It turns out, a significant number do not. Further, it seems dads are more vulnerable to estrangement than moms.
There was pushback to the paper. A lot. Angry adult children responded by saying it failed to take into account the refusal of fathers to acknowledge their role in any estrangement. As I read a number of lengthy rebuttals I wondered if they would be willing to put as much effort into attempting to rebuild their relationship as they were in attacking the study.
Last weekend 79% of people did something to acknowledge Father’s Day. Just a few weeks earlier almost 90% celebrated Mother’s Day. Additionally, people spent 56% more on their moms than they did their dads. Some might write this off with the fact that jewellery, flowers, perfume and such are more expensive than typical fare purchased for dads. Perhaps. But it does seem greater efforts are made for moms each
year, even though we know how incredibly important dads are.
I can’t begin to list the things I learned and experienced because of my dad. He helped me study for exams. He proofread papers. We shared a love of books, historical happenings and points of interest. He and I often did the “Word Power” quiz in Reader’s Digest and because of that, and endless rounds of Scrabble, I developed a keen interest in vocabulary. He hugged me, he listened to me and he prayed for me. He coached my ball teams, played hours of catch, and watched hockey, baseball and the Olympics with me whenever he could. To this day I ensure that little gets in the way of watching the Indianapolis 500 each May because that was such a fun tradition with him.
Yes, I say ‘was’ because he passed away many years ago. He has been gone from my life longer than he was in it. But his presence looms large because he was fully engaged and involved in being a father. And he was good at it.
My dad loved taking us on road trips and vacations and we were eager participants as we got to store up wonderful memories. We camped in sunshine and in rain, hiked spectacular trails, visited forts, stood at the base of mountains, canoed, soaked in hot springs, rode roller coasters, enjoyed major theme parks, saw plays and attended games. But always
on road trips, no matter the destination, he included stops at scenic wonders or historical landmarks. We didn’t just drive by points of interest; we stopped, read the plaques, and visited the museums. There was always something to discover. As a result, we toured and learned about amazing places many people likely just drove by.
That included a tour of a solar energy plant in Southern California. I admit, I was a bit bored, but I tried to pay attention to the tour and the film we were shown. After all, he had taken us to Disneyland--I could surely endure a lesson on renewable energy. Later that school year my Grade 5 science teacher introduced a unit looking at various forms of energy, particularly solar energy. I was the only one who had any prior knowledge on the subject. I even had pamphlets to bring to school! I felt like a superstar in that class, thanks to my dad. Just one example of thousands he imparted over a time that I feel was too short, but recognize was very, very full.
Oh, how I wish I could have had a relationship with my dad as an adult but he died when I was just 18 years old. Father’s Day for me was bittersweet once again; missing what is gone, but cherishing what was. This girl is grateful she had a girl dad, not because it was trendy but because it was the kind of parent he chose to be. That’s my outlook.
- Nelson Mandela
Shelley Luedtke
Alameda School celebrates 12 graduates
By Paul Kimball
A graduation ceremony for Grade 9 students has a much different look and feel than a typical graduation. At least, that was the case at Alameda School.
While acknowledging the achievements of the graduates, who are all now headed to Oxbow Prairie Horizons School (OPHS), the ceremony also recognizes younger students and their accomplishments. It is, at one and the same time, an evening of saying farewell and an encouragement to those who still have a few years left at the school.
Alameda School is not a large school. Seventy-nine students, ranging from kindergarten to Grade 9 attend. Fifteen percent of them graduated on June 11th…12 altogether.
The evening was emceed by Bronsyn Brock, a Grade 8 student. He nicely led through the transitions of the multiple components of the evening.
After the assembled crowd was welcomed, our national anthem was played. Principal Carmen Ostrander gave her speech, telling the graduates some of the ‘always’ of life. Always be yourself…always get plenty of sleep (“just like some of you do in class”), always take the road less travelled (“don’t always go with the flow”), always remember to laugh…these
were just a few of the 15 or so that she mentioned. She also reminded the grad class to be thankful for their parents and not to forget childhood friends. She finished off with a reading of Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss.
A time of recognition and accomplishments followed.
That included the Yearbook Committee, which is comprised of teachers and students; the intra-mural sports teams (something that came into being when COVID arrived). This year, the Sea Wolves were the top team with 985 points; parental involvement; and athletic achievements. The most-improved students of Grades 6, 7 and 8 were rewarded with certificates.
The graduates were then acknowledged, with each receiving their hardearned diplomas. Several were also given awards.
The evening came to its end with the showing
of a video capturing the students in their preschool and school years.
Two of the award-winners were Reece Erdman, who received the Math & Science award, and Lexie East, who was the recipient of the Principal’s award for the student displaying the most honourable character. Both students have attended Alameda School since
kindergarten and have played badminton and volleyball. Reece also enjoyed track. They’re going to miss Alameda School and its smaller classes and the teachers who gave them so much help. But they are eagerly anticipating heading off to the bigger school and making new friendships. Reece is looking forward to more course options,
especially Food Studies and learning how to cook. Lexie can’t wait for the welding and carpentry shops.
Both girls have career goals already. Reece aims to be a veterinarian (her love of animals was much on display during the video presentation), whereas Lexie’s future will likely include being a heavy-duty mechanic.
The graduates are not the only ones who are moving on. Two of the teachers are as well. Joey Henrion will be following the graduates to OPHS, while Katie Kobitz will be teaching in Estevan at the Pleasantdale School. It was an evening of recognition and fond farewells – to students and teachers alike.
OILFIELD DIRECTORY
You don’t need to be drunk to have a good time
Graduation — your teenager has talked of nothing else for months. But now the big day is fast approaching, along with another inevitable celebration: the after-grad party. As a parent, it’s up to you to give some serious advice to your children so that their memories of this important event are only happy and positive ones.
RAISE AWARENESS
Emphasize that it isn’t necessary to drink alcohol in order to have fun. Mention the dangers of excessive drinking, which can so easily ruin the celebration that your teenagers have been waiting for so intently. Encourage your sons and daughters to decide on the way they will behave in advance.
If the teenagers don’t have a car, ensure that they know who will bring them home before they leave for the dance. Assure your children that if their transportation plans change, they should call you for a ride. This is especially important if their designated driver starts drinking. Make sure that the kids have enough money to call a taxi, if that is the safest way to get home.
Repeat as often as necessary that they should not, under any circumstances, drive after drinking or get in a car driven by someone who is drunk.
BE PROACTIVE
At all times, but particularly during the weeks preceding the graduation formal, parents should set an example by drinking in moderation. These days, many parents are getting together to provide a carpooling service for all the graduates. Be the moving force behind this idea, or volunteer to be one of the evening’s chauffeurs. It’s for a good cause!
to not drink & drive!
The Alameda School graduating class of 2025…on their way to Oxbow Prairie Horizons School. Photo by Paul Kimball
Redvers Library offering programming for children
By Kaitlynn Nordal
The Redvers Library is offering their Around the World and Library Club programming again this year for local kids.
As Katy Soroka Redvers Library explained the Southeast Regional Library works with the TD Summer Reading Club (SRC).
“It is the TD SRC that sets the theme every year and provides some materials for branches to use,” said Soroka.
The summer reading club offers something unique to those who participate.
“Kids and parents are always looking for some variety in their summer fun. Our Summer Reading Club is a great way to mix up the routine and provide some fun and learning with their peers,” said Soroka.
Although this is Soroka’s second summer she can confirm Redvers Library has always participated in summer reading programs and decided to continue the tradition.
This year the TD Summer Reading Club’s theme is “Around the World.”
“(This) is a fantastic theme,” said Soroka. “What I enjoy about it is that you can take it in so many directions,” said Soroka. “You likely won’t find any libraries running it in exactly the same way.”
In Redvers, we will be exploring Scotland, India, the Philippines, and Canada this year.
“When making plans for the programs, I considered the demographic and personalities of the children in our community that love participating in our programming,” said Soroka.
“They are full of energy, enthusiasm as well as a mix of athletic and artistic abilities,” continued Soroka. “I have planned two outdoor events to keep them moving as we learn, as well as two events that include arts and crafts. Authentic snacks from each country will also be provided free of charge for the kids to experience.”
When deciding what countries to pick this year it was important to Soroka that the programming represent the community.
“As a multicultural commu-
nity, our friends, neighbours, coworkers, and peers originate from all over the world. I’m excited to have residents participate in our programming to teach all of us about their experiences and cultures. The countries that I chose were based on our local demographics,” said Soroka.
Soroka is particularly excited about the Scotland unit.
“As a Scottish immigrant myself, I’m excited to facilitate the program on Scotland and share the excitement of the Highland Games,” said Soroka.
Soroka has also ensured that there are presentations from locals Jay Tyagi and Chona Lang.
“Redvers is also fortunate to have many immigrants from
Let the journey begin!
India and the Philippines who are willing to share their experiences with us. Jay Tyagi will be teaching us how to play cricket. Chona Lang will be teaching us about the Philippines and helping us craft our very own Jeepneys to take home.
Canada will be the children’s last stop on their trip around the world.
“It was particularly important to me to be able to highlight the original inhabitants of our land. We are excited to have Heather Sparrow join us again. She recently facilitated the “Metawetan: Let’s Play” program which was a huge success,” said Soroka. “This time she will be working with our slightly older kids. She is providing a special treat of bannock and Saskatoon berry soup as well as leading a watercolor art project.”
Soroka has high hopes for how their stops around the world will go.
“I hope that the kids are interested in learning about other countries and how they differ from their own experiences, but also what they have in common. I’m excited to hear all of the questions that I know they will have as well as seeing their excitement to try and learn new things,” said Soroka. Registration is now open for the four dates with limited spots remaining although they can add to a wait list.
You can register by sending a message on Facebook, emailing at redvers@southeastlibrary.ca, or by ringing Soroka on 306-452-3255.
For those interested, Soroka is also offering a summer reading program.
“This is my second summer as the librarian and my second Summer Reading Club. Redvers Library has been offering it for as long as I can remember. Every summer looks different with a new theme every year,” said Soroka.
The Summer Reading Club is an annual event that encourages kids to keep reading and learning over the summer months.
This program will be offered to children aged 6 to twelve and run from June 12 to September 1.
Those children participating will get a treat for signing up for a library card, and every time they check something out.
Soroka will be offering a kids’ “recommendation shelf” this year as part of the summer reading club. All the kids have to do is tell Soroka what books they enjoyed reading for them to be put on the shelf.
“I am fortunate to have an amazing library board,” said Soroka. “They are very engaged and supportive as well as great at brainstorming new ideas to implement. The idea of the kids’ recommendation shelf came straight from a board member.”
Carnduff Class of 2025
Christine Joy Ablao Chrislie Marianne Avenido Jersey Barber Morgan Bayliss
Brandon Beck
Jacob Belke Piper Bigney
Kash Boyes Andy Brown Jurrelle Casabuena Raina Cowan
Mylee Davis Peyton Didrick Gracee Dougall
Jace Dyck Clinton Earl Kiera Foster Harlee Franklin Molly Gamblin Amy Gilliland Cole Green
Karley Halliday Morgan Hamilton Tegan Haswell Ace Hodgson Samuel Holbrook Teanna Hubbard
Cole Irwin Dani Levesque Brianna Macfarlane Lance McMillen
Mac Minshull
Rylee Minshull
Anesa Nichols
The making of a mural on Carlyle’s Memorial Hall
By Paul Twietmeyer
For a number of years I have been looking at the north wall of the Memorial Hall, bothered by its lack of appeal and its very poor condition. In the middle of April I finally came up with a watercolour proposal of what I could possibly do to rectify the situation. I presented this to the town council and asked if they would allow me to paint and install a mural, asking only that they cover the cost of materials I would need to complete the project. I had to get approval as well from Levi Chatterson in the barber shop for going over his windows. We came to a compromise by making a door that would be open during his business hours, allowing light into the shop and at the same time having his business advertisement visible, with just the mural view when closed. The Town gave their approval, after which I went about designing and ordering materials.
I was very fortunate in that I received essential help in the way of a place to be able to paint large portions indoors which the Carlyle Co-op offered with the back of their old store on Main Street. Moose Mountain
Woodworks ordered in the 16 sheets of half inch waterproof MDF and made all the precision cuts on their CNC panel machine. Davin with Faber Electric generously offered the use of their scissor lift which of course was the only safe way to install the battens and mural
panels. Thank you all so much for making this project possible.
It took approximately 20 days to create the proposal, plan sizes, order materials, prepare the room for painting, and prime two coats on both sides of all the sheets. The ac-
tual painting of the scene took 16 days and another five days to prepare the wall with battens and fix old window frames. Installing only took one day plus three more to clear coat and final touchups. I estimate having put well over 300 hours into the project but they were for
the most part very enjoyable hours. I believe most people would agree that it was time well spent.
Lastly, thank you to Shannon Klatt, Benny Can, Jesse Twietmeyer, Cary Chatterson, and of course to my wife Dianne for their help when needed.
Class of 2025
Let the journey begin! Oxbow
Mason Beriault Daxtyn Brown
Yvonne Bumatay Craig Burgos Stacie Butt
Jace Carritt
Aldwin Casi
Griffin Currie Kyla Dyer Mikki East Khalifa Elshein
Slade Erdman
Haley Fee
Hayden Fee
Lila Fitzpatrick Carter Folkerts Nolan Folkerts Olivia Fonstad
Brenna Garling Aislynn Gettle
Addison Hammermeister
Paul Twietmeyer poses in front of the mural he designed for the side of the Memorial Hall in Carlyle.
Lucas Hancock Noah Hansen Adrianna Junk Kenyan Kinder Tallyn Kitz
Shasta Lemieux Joely McMullen
Amanda Nordin Rylan Nordin Keagan Patton
Saluting Redvers Minor Ball Teams!
Top
Assistant Coach Robyn Rodrigues, Coach Kendra Miller and manager Aly Poirier
Middle Row: Hagan Dekeyser. Mia Rodrigues, Quinn Miller, Liam Reimer, Colt Melenfant
Bottom Row: Benjamin Bastable, Lacey Poirier, Kane Purvis, Lexah George, Emily Knelsen, Benjamin Bastable, Lacey Poirier, Kane Purvis, Lexah George, Emily Knelsen
7U Rory
Coaches - Rory Yates and Katrina Lynch
Top Row - Kayley Millions, Haze Rutten, Zeppelin Yates, Jami Culbertson, Zachary Boettcher Bottom Row - Sophie Hutton, Adele Dangstorp, Dawson Lynch, Mila Jorgensen
9U Derek
Back Row (L-R): Kourtlin Reddick (coach), Katy Soroka (manager), Derek Soroka (coach), Craig Gaudet (coach)
Middle Row (L-R): Stella Campbell, Henri Hjertaas, Maddox Hoff, Brooks Gaudet, David Soroka, Memfis Miller, Boe Dalrymple
Front Row (L-R): Ethan Martin, Rylan Millions, Sorren Toms, Asher Lemieux, Arri Reddick, Owen Boettcher
11U Bryce
Back Row (L to R): Coach Bryce Birch, Hunter Birch, Keegan Laich, Nash Bennett, Avery Bedecs, Karter Carriere, Gracelynn Bayliss, Coach Brian Carriere
Front Row (L to R): Corbyn Hansen, Doughty Toms, Gannon Dyrkis, Wyatt Boettcher
Missing: Manager Christina Birch
U11 Brittany - Redvers 2
Coach Brittany Yates, Laiken George, Blake Toms, Aleris Gavelin, Braliegh George, Charleigh Fidierchuk, Abby Reimer, Bailey Richards, Brandy George, Elizabeth Soroka, Coach Jessica George Missing: Player Mikah George and Manager Kim Toms
U7 Kendra
Row:
U9 Christina
Coaches - Katrina Lynch and Christina Birch Top Row - Nadia Dekeyser, Jaylynn Lynch, Emma Sterling, Ariel Van Der Waal, Madison Birch, Talaya Dangstorp Bottom Row - Ainsley Henderson, Dakota Frison, Henley Gallagher, Kenna Gervais
11U Bradey Back: Manager Kate Carlsen, Assist Coach Derek Campbell, Assist Coach Grady Sutter, Coach Bradey Fidierchuk (Missing: Assist Coach Dana Carlsen
Middle: Barrett Poirier, Jake Hildebrandt, Beau Fidierchuk, Hux Garnier, Luke Sutter, Dane Campbell Front: Max Carlsen, Oliver Kyle, Cohen Carlsen, Alex Finkle
U11 Drew - Redvers 1
Top Row: Coach - Drew Hoff, Manager - Jasmine Hoff, Aubree Garnier, Savannah Martin, Penelope Henderson, Braeley Hoff, Arilynne Real, Assistant Coach - Jessica Bedecs Bottom Row: Irelyn Gallagher, Alexis Bedecs, Emma Hutton, Lauren Hannah
Winsome Kind releases their fourth album
By Paul Kimball
For a couple of hours on June 8th, the Carlyle Community Theatre was a music hall. Winsome Kind, a husband/ wife music group, entertained about 50 people with their style of music.
Leora Joy and Scott Perrie have been writing and playing together music for 10 years –the same length of time since they met and fell in love. Their music is inspirational, positive and uplifting.
One of the purposes of the
concert was to launch their latest album, entitled Mantras For A Magical Life. It consists of nine short ‘songs’ that, according to their press release, are intended to bring comfort, activate magic, heal hearts and empower minds.
The show was opened by the father/son duo Porphyrios from Estevan. Daniel Espelian and his son Maverick entertained the audience with their original bluesy, rock and roll songs for half an hour before turning things over to Winsome Kind.
Think GREEN
Winsome Kind played for about 75 minutes, singing songs featured on their previous three albums. As well as singing, Scott plays an acoustic guitar and Leora Joy plays her melodica. About halfway through their set, they played all the songs featured on their latest album. Their three children (Avery, Jasper and Eliza) joined them on stage to help out at times, as did two of their music students, Laurie Fornwald and Jessica Shirley.
Leora Joy and Scott love
music and want to spread it as much as possible. Thanks to a grant from The Oxbow & Area Cultural Committee, they will be holding a musical theatre kids’ camp in Oxbow’s Bow Valley Park later this summer (July 21-23). The camp will wind up with a small show, giving the children an opportunity to present what they have learned…and for Winsome Kind to play their music. They are currently at the ‘front end’ of a 14-stop musical tour that began in Texas in May and will wind up Septem-
Always Remember To Recycle Your Old Newspapers
ber in Estevan. The tour includes several stops throughout Western Canada. When not entertaining, Leora Joy teaches voice lessons and Scott gives guitar lessons – all in their home studio. Scott also works very part-time at the family farm and offers massage and bodywork as a certified spa therapist, also in his home studio. Scott will also be giving beginner guitar lessons at the Kenosee Lake Kitchen Party in August as part of their kids’ music camp.
Saluting Redvers Minor Ball Teams!
13U
U13 Kelsey
Back Row: Brittany Raymond, Manager, Emily Englot, Adley Raymond, Brynn Gervais, Allie Cosgrove, Ava Lambert, Lexus McKennitt, Kelsey Raymond, Coach Front Row: Emmie Gavelin, Emlynn Poirier, Alexine Reddick, Layla Blerot, Rayah Smith, McKenna Richards
Back Row: Coach James Cameron, Arjen Vanderwaal, Huxton Cameron, Crue Garnier, Hunter Kamp, Dane Campbell, Assistant Coach Aaron Kamp Front Row: Lyndon Leathrdale, Zuma Gervais, Breckin Frecon, Harel Bulatao, Jackson Dyrkas Missing: Assistant Coach Travis Garnier and Manager Brooklyn Garnier
U15 Doug
Back: Doug Bennett (asst coach), Kinsley Hoff, Zailey Bennett, Chloe George, Halle Pospisil, Hadley Garnier, Jasmine Hoff (manager), Joanne Williams (Coach) Front: Sophie Martin, Olivia Pirlot, Rayah Lovell, Kyler Kamp, Kamri Kirby
18U Darius
Back Row: Peyton George, Teagon Bookout, Grady Sutter, Quinton Cop, Koby Krainyk Bottom Row: Coach Darius Huynh, Ryatt Huynh, Jack George, Jhace Blerot, Kyson Gavelin, Carson Gervais and Cooper Godenir
Missing: Assistant Coaches Dakota Rue, John Potapinski, Chad Hartley and Manager Kim Toms
Music is a family affair for the Perrie family. (from left to right) – Avery, Jasper, Leora Joy, Eliza and Scott). Photo courtesy of Scott Perrie
Leora Joy with her melodica and husband Scott with his guitar as they bring their music to the Carlyle Community Theatre. Photo courtesy of Scott Perrie
Stoughton Girl Guides hold year-end barbecue
By Stephanie Zoer
The year has come to an end for the Stoughton Girl Guides and a barbecue was held to celebrate the achievements that the girls had over the past year.
Cheryl Lake, the contact guider for Stoughton and District Commissioner for Black Gold District held the event at her farm south of Stoughton on June 11, inviting all the Girl Guides and their families to the evening.
The unit has Sparks all the way up to Rangers, and this year several of the girls advanced to the next level, which brought great excitement for the girls.
Cheyanne Lake, one of the Rangers, is fundraising for her Girl Guides trip next year to Ireland and Switzerland. She must raise a certain amount through cookie sales and other means of fundraising.
With the extremely dry season and no rain in site, a backyard fire was out of the question, so a simple barbecue was held of burgers and hot dogs which the crowd of 20 people enjoyed, followed by dessert.
A short meeting was held after supper, and this is when the awards were handed out.
Each girl received a Girl Guides travel cup that had their name on it, and a bag full of goodies with badges they had
Class of 2025
earned over the past months, crafts, and treats.
Parents had the opportunity to socialize, while the girls enjoyed running around the yard.
Near the end of the season Girl Guides
Canada offers a free trial for any young ladies who wish to try out guides and
Let the journey begin!
this had four girls come out to the meetings and join the nine girls who already are members.
According to Lake, Guides is a great way for young women to have the opportunity to explore different things like Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), camping
and loads of crafts.
As the District Commissioner she is always looking for ways to get more girls to join and with that leaders are needed.
The Lampman Girl Guides Club began in 2022 and easily have 12 or more members, but this year the leaders are stepping down due to other commitments.
Lampman usually met every other Monday evening, while Stoughton held meetings every Wednesday night at the Apostolic Church in Stoughton.
“To become a Girl Guide leader, one needs a positive attitude, a willingness to mentor youth to be leaders in their community and to have fun,” said Lake.
“It is best to have two or three guiders for each branch, as it opens those branches for more girls to join in the fun,” she said.
Non-member volunteers are also an asset to the units, as they can help at meetings as well even if they do not have children who will attend.
Weyburn will also be needing unit leaders as they will be a returning unit.
Covid closed a few units, and Lake would love to see them re-open, and this is the plan for Weyburn.
If anyone is interested in becoming a leader and they have questions they may contact Cheryl Lake at 306-421-3479 or simply join them on line at girlguides.ca.
Stoughton
“The
Jhett Brigden
Grayson Clements
Brighton Coderre
Joseph Elek
Alexa Frederiksen
Reid Goudy Sarah Goudy
Chayse Hemphill Anna Knapp Trey Malowski
Bronte Big Eagle
Stoughton Girl Guides held their year-end barbecue. Back row left to right, Krystle Zoer, Cheryl Lake, and Cheyanne Lake. Middle row left to right, Victoria Duxbury, Violet Calcihas, Taylor Mac Gregor, McKinney Beckman, MacyLynn Lake and Elena Slimmon. Front row left to right, Elizabeth Duxbury and Ava Beckman. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Certificates presented at Legion meeting in Carlyle
On June 11 the Carlyle Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion held its spring windup meeting. As has become traditional at the spring windup meeting it was held as a supper meeting and spouses were invited as were guests that the Legion wished to honour.
This year two Certificates of Appreciation were handed out as was one Certificate of Merit. Comrade Nedra Clark presented the first Certificate of Appreciation to Dawn Faber from the Carlyle Town Office. This Certificate was to thank the employees of the Town Office for the efforts they have made for the Legion and the wonderful cooperation that they have shown when working with the Legion.
Comrade Clark then presented a second Certificate of Appreciation to Ms. Faber as she was also representing the Town workers. The Carlyle Town workers have done so many innumerable things to assist the Legion including raising and lowering flags as appropriate, installing and removing banners around
town for Remembrance Day, clearing snow and mowing grass around the Legion Hut, and responding to many other requests.
A Certificate of Merit, and a Legion insulated cooler bottle, was then presented by Comrade Clark to Jesse Twietmeyer. Jesse has participated in the Remem-
brance Day Ceremonies by playing the The Last Post and Reveille for many years. This Certificate of Merit formally recognizes his contribution to one of our most important activities.
As with any meeting, a number of business items were then dealt with. A deadline of September 1 was established to receive
applications for the $1000 Carlyle Legion bursary for continuing studies in post secondary education. If a student has military connections through family members, and is in any but the first year of post secondary education, they can apply for this bursary prior to September 1.
A decision was also reached to donate $1000
from the Poppy Fund to the Saskatchewan Command for veterans who have been adversely affected by the ongoing wildfires in the northern part of the province. This money will be administered by Saskatchewan Command to ensure it is distributed to those veterans who require assistance.
The Town of Carlyle forwarded correspondence received from the Canadian Fallen Heroes Foundation. This charity is building a memorial tribute to the Fallen Airmen of Saskatchewan at the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum in Saskatoon. They approached the Town because three of the airmen they would like to commemorate are Flight Lieutenant Harold Lundy Flynn, Flight Sargeant Ronald Alfred Kinnee, and Leading Aircraftman Antti Alfreed Lunkie, all of whom were originally from Carlyle. As all three of these men are on the honour roll of those lost in World War II it was decided to donate $900 to this charity so that memorial plaques could be prepared for them for display in the Aviation Museum.
This was the last Legion meeting before taking a summer break, so we would like to remind everyone that the week of September 21 to September 27 has been designated as National Legion Week. Please watch for updates on planned activities for that week.
‘Papa
By David Slykhuis
Life was going reasonably well for me. At the age of 70, I have a wife, six children and 12 grandchildren and two dogs. The year 2024 ended with an unexplained episode that now thinking back on, was a sign that I wasn’t as fit and healthy as I always thought.
One evening in December, I proceeded to cook hamburger at the stove and became quite dizzy. I turned off the stove and took a seat to let it pass. My daughter had stopped by and insisted a visit to the Arcola ER since my blood pressure at 208/72 was not acceptable. Blood tests, an ECG and more blood pressure tests did not disclose anything that would explain what had happened. I was feeling fine and was sent home.
But Dr. Amayo thought something just wasn’t right and wanted more tests and referred me to a cardiologist. My wife and I made the trip to Regina to see Dr. Wojcik on May 14. I attended an echocardiogram in the morning and met Dr. Wojcik in the afternoon. It was this day that I learned that I needed heart surgery. More tests were scheduled for
May 21, and I proceeded to head home.
I received a call that evening from Dr. Wojcik, who had taken a second look at my test results from earlier that day and felt that my case was very serious and requested I return to Regina General the next day.
May 15 was the beginning of my first ever hospital stay. More tests were done, and my con-
dition was confirmed- I had an aortic aneurysm and a severely leaky value. Surgery was scheduled for Thursday, May 22, and I was advised to stay in the hospital until then as a safety precaution. My surgeon, Dr. Moustapha informed me this was the fourth largest aneurysm he’d seen in 22 years. Surgery came and went without complications. It was a
HEALTH & Seniors
is Lucky’ to walk out of the hospital
five-hour surgery where they repaired a 7cm aneurysm on the aorta and replaced the defective value. Papa was fixed! Rest and recovery were all that was suggested. Sounds reasonable, right? May 23rd I was moved out of ICU, recovery went well, just nauseated. A few days later progress was slow, and I was eager to get home. There had been some fluid around my lungs that was keeping my oxygen levels lower than the doctor would like. The cardiologists had given me the options to either stay another week in the hospital to let my body absorb the fluid or they could insert a catheter to drain the fluid. I opted for the catheter. All was well, my oxygen level climbed after 48 hours with the catheter.
Thursday, May 29th my sister Glenda visited, and it was assumed I would head home the next day.
Friday, May 30, I had the catheter removed from my right lung. Later that day my blood pressure dropped, and I lost consciousness. It was a Code Blue! Emergency! Cardiologists were alerted and a variety of other professionals. “Get this man into the OR Stat” my
clothing was cut off, I received one unit of blood in the room to try to stabilize me so they could get me to the OR. The team miraculously managed to keep me alive long enough to get to the OR. However, poor Papa had no clue what was going on! I felt like I was dangling around in noman’s land awaiting my fate.
When the doctors had removed the catheter from my right lung, a vein was nicked and I had been bleeding internally most of that day, but it wasn’t known until my blood pressure had dropped that it was recognized. Over four litres had drained from my body; needless to say, I
was given another three units of blood to keep me alive. Each cardiologist at individual times expressed how lucky I was to walk out of the hospital and not leaving in a body bag. PAPA IS LUCKY!!
I want to thank Dr. Amayo for following your instinct by referring me to a cardiologist. To the doctors, nurses and other staff at Regina General for such excellent care to keep me alive and on the mend. A special thank you to my family and friends for being there for me and my wife. This took an extra special kind of love and caring so that I would be alive and back home!
David Slykhuis underwent heart surgery. Photo courtesy of Shelley Slykhuis
Comrade Nedra Clark presented Certificate of Appreciation to Dawn Faber.
Comrade Nedra Clark presented Certificate of Merit to Jesse Twietmeyer.
The Moose Mountain Provincial Park Artist Colony will welcome another new comer this year
By Stephanie Zoer
Born and raised in Calgary, Marilee Manz lived there for most of her life and still resides their today as this is where her immediate family lives.
Her parents are both originally from Saskatchewan, her father was from Cupar, and her mother was from Saskatoon.
Although Manz grew up next to the Rocky Mountains and loves going to the mountains, she loves to come to the Prairies as well.
After graduating Grade 12, Manz attended the University of Calgary to get her BA in English, but she also had a strong interest in history and archeology.
Recently she returned to
school for archeology courses so that she can attend a dig in Mexico.
Throughout the years she has worked in many industries and in many fields. She worked in the oil industry in records management and was a technical writer.
Her latest engagement was a route scheduler for vending machines.
She began her creative interest with writing.
Manz has written plays, screenplays, novels, and poetry and some of these have been self-published.
But today she is a visual artist in photography and collage. She enjoys taking her photos and turning them into a collage, and this is her plan when she attends the Artist Colony.
The favourite part of her photography is when she plans road trips and the places that she will stop to gather more photos.
She has travelled to wonderful parks in Alberta and Saskatchewan such as the Sandhills and Red Rock Coulee and is not afraid to go the distance to get the photos she is looking for.
One photo that stands out in her mind is when she travelled to Hussar, Alberta to capture the beauty of the old grain elevator. As she approached, a large flock of Canadian Geese happened to take to flight.
They flew over the top of the grain elevator forming the V formation while Manz took waves and waves of photos to capture the beauty
Pollinators and Pollinator Week
By Patricia Hanbidge
In Canada, Pollinator Week 2025 is celebrated from June 16th to June 22nd This event was initiated by the Pollinator Partnership which is a United States not-for-profit dedicated to the health, protection and conservation of all pollinators. This annual event has grown internationally and involves a broad collaboration of diverse partners.
Pollinators are organisms that play a crucial role in plant reproduction by transferring pollen from the male part of a flower (anther) to the female part (stigma). Pollinators are vital for the production of many crops, including fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds and also contribute to the health and biodiversity of ecosystems. They include a wide variety of species with bees being the most common. However, other important pollinators include butterflies, moths, wasps, flies, some beetles, hummingbirds and bats.
Bees are the most important group of pollinators. With the exception of a few species of wasps, it is only the bees that deliberately gather pollen to bring back to their nests for their offspring. Bees also exhibit a behaviour that is called flower constancy which means they repeatedly visit one particular plant species on any given foraging trip.
A female bee on a single foraging trip may visit hundreds of flowers, trans-
Carlyle Cubs learn about ambulance
Supreme Ambulance visited Carlyle Cubs Learning Center on June 9. Jake Bourdeau & Vashti Wardrope shared their expertise on the ambulance and what they do. The children enjoyed exploring and trying out the stretcher.
of the moment.
Manz is hoping to gather photos of as many grain elevators as possible, and she knows that Saskatchewan has several.
She will be attending the Moose Mountain Provincial Artist Colony for the first time this year from June 24-30.
She will stay at the Bear Claw Casino while at the park and looks forward to displaying her work for others to see and enjoy.
It is also her plan to show people how a collage works and hopes to encourage people to use their imaginations.
Manz looks forward to showing her creativity to others, meeting new people, and just enjoying her time at the colony.
ferring pollen throughout the entire trip. Other pollinators like butterflies, moths, flies, wasps and beetles visit the flowers to feed on the nectar – or the flower itself and do not collect pollen.
There are an estimated 20,000 different species of bees worldwide with about 3600 that are native to North America (north of Mexico). Their body length ranges from 2 to 25 mm and range in colour from dark brown or black to red or metallic green and blue. Some have stripes of white, orange, yellow or black and a few even have opalescent bands.
Pollinators are vital for the environment and human food supply being responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat. However, pollinator populations are declining globally due to habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. It is essential for us to protect and support pollinators in order to maintain food security, ecosystem health and biodiversity.
There are many things that you can
do to help provide habitat for pollinators. Plant native plants as they have co-evolved with local insect species and provide a suitable source of nectar and pollen. Plan for continuous bloom in your garden which is not only good for pollinators but lovely for the humans too. Provide diverse flower shapes and colours to ensure you can attract and provide for all pollinators. Choose a sunny spot as most pollinators are cold-blooded and need the sun’s warmth to be active. Ensuring you have shelter from the wind to allow your pollinators to be more comfortable. All living critters need water, so a shallow bowl filled with rocks is a great way to provide water to even the smallest pollinator. If you leave a messy bit somewhere in the garden, you will see that many pollinators will be found in this area. If you do not like to view the messy bit, tuck it in behind some vegetation so you can not easily view it. Last but not least, do not use pesticides.
Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge donate $4,100
At the Mother’s Day/Father’s Day tea recently, Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge graciously donated $4,100 to the FMML recreation committee. Funds will be used for patio, gazebo, and other outdoor improvements. From left, Friends Treasurer Gisele Carriere, Past-President Jenny Geiger Martel, President Donna Beaver, and MML Recreation Director Jaime Brimner.
Marilee Manz loves nothing better than to come to Saskatchewan to photograph the massive empty fields on the Prairies. Photo by Marilee Manz
Southeastern firefighters help fight northern Sask fires
By Stephanie Zoer
The fires in Northern Saskatchewan have been intense which has caused several communities to evacuate as the fires came close to the small towns.
As of June 14, there have been 252 fires in Saskatchewan with 12 of them active wildfires, and several of them are yet to be contained.
This has been the second worst season of fires in the history of Saskatchewan, and it brings concern as it is early in the season.
When the calls went out for help, several local firefighters decided to pack up and head north to help with the growing situation.
Brent Stillwell, the deputy chief of the Carlyle Fire Department and Zane Vanderhulst from the Arcola Fire Department took the one-ton Wildland Unit from the Carlyle department and went north.
This truck will hold 250 gallons of water and can easily hook up to other trucks to help with the pumping.
Stillwell and Vanderhulst left on May 31 early in the morning and arrived at their camp around 4:30 p.m.
Cutlines are also done with a Caterpillar. The blade is 14 feet wide, and the Cat will make four or five paths ahead of the fire. It is hoped that the fire will not jump across this line, and it will help contain the fire.
Planes and helicopters will dump the fire retardant water on the edges of the fire or ahead of the fire in another attempt to control the blaze.
When they were shown the location to set up their tents, Stillwell was a little concerned as the fire that was roaring was not far away.
“The ashes from the fire were blowing over our tent and the roar of the fire was clearly heard,” said Stillwell.
They were situated about an hour north of Prince Albert by Weyakwin near Montreal Lake where the base camp was set up.
Each morning, they all gathered for breakfast from 6:15-7 a.m. Right after this is when the debriefing took place; they were split into groups and sent on their assignments.
Each member received a bagged lunch and often did not return to camp until 7-7:30 p.m. At this time, they received supper. Sometimes they were required to go back out.
On the morning of June 2, they were sent to the shores of Montreal Lake and looking east was Nelson Camp, which had six to eight structures. It was their
mission to protect and put out hot spot flares ups as needed.
The following day, June 3, their mission was to protect power infrastructure to the north. They sprayed 88 power poles twice. The first batch was a little too light, so they resprayed with a stronger mixer.
“It is like primer and paint on the walls,” said Stillwell. “We were able to observe North Battleford and Yorkton units go towards La Ronge,” he said. The Robertson Trading Post was lost the day before.
June 4 and day four of their time up north, they sprayed a different kind of gel retardant on power poles between Weyakwin and Ramsey Bay. This was prior to a planned burn to happen the next day.
Having done this until noon, they were reassigned to protect structures that were being threatened by fire at Molanosa, which is situated at the top of Montreal Lake, and a one and a half hour drive.
The narrow road north and on the east side of the lake had a lot of sand traps in the grid. A sand trap is similar to a pot hole except the sand trap goes across the whole road and is two to three feet wide.
“I radioed back to the group to warn them of the sand traps as there were large fire engines coming too and they would not have done well hitting them,” said Stillwell.
After arriving at their destination, they were in-
Celebrating Indigenous peoples and cultures
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day and a time for all Canadians to honour and celebrate the diverse cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.
The celebrations taking place across the country are varied. Some communities choose to mark the holiday with barbecues and dancing, others host large events with musical performances and activities for children. Additionally, some bands choose to hold powwows to commemorate the event, complete with traditional dancing, drumming and food.
National Indigenous Peoples Day events are open to all Canadians who are interested in learning about and celebrating the unique cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Regardless of your ethnicity, on June 21 you’re invited to recognize the important role of Indigenous peoples in Canada. So how will you celebrate this year?
stantly sent back as the fire was too close and intense and was being monitored by helicopters overhead.
“We did what we could,” said Vanderhulst. “It was all about protecting communities and the structures within.”
“I have never seen the fire pump in action,” said Stillwell. “This would be a useful tool in areas around White Bear and Kenosee.”
Stillwell and Vanderhulst both agreed that the organization of the camps and team leaders was well put together and everyone worked together as teams.
When they first arrived at the camp, they had around 50 firefighters, but when they left, the camp had grown to nearly 100 firefighters.
Firefighters also came from Redvers and Carnduff.
Redvers Fire Chief Brett Hutton and Brandon Gaudet came with their water tanker that holds 2000 gallons of water and can pump 1200 gallons of water in one minute.
“With the leadership having made a plan and disseminating it down through the ranks and various task force groups and getting everyone to pull together in the same direction, while still being able to pivot if needed, it was well orchestrated,” said Stillwell.
Anytime firefighters go to an incident their priority is to save lives, protect property and spare the environment and they feel that they did their best.
From left to right, Brent Stillwell, Brad Hutton, Brendon Garden and Jonas Ermie walk down Ramsey Bay Road to look at the huge fire that lays ahead. Photo by Zane Vanderhulst
Achievement Day for Carnduff & Area Beef 4-H Club
By Paul Kimball
June 9th was a big day for the Carnduff & Area Beef 4-H Club. It was Achievement Day…when the hard work of their 16 members over the past year was recognized.
The morning was filled with the typical events of an Achievement Day –the reciting of the pledge, written and oral judging, grooming (where the members prepped and showed their cattle), steer classes, and of course, lunch.
The lunch was sponsored and provided by the local Ag Society. Not only did the 4-H participants enjoy the hot dogs and hamburgers, but so did many from the community.
It was also a significant day for the Ag Society, who used the occasion to formally ‘unveil’ their new pavilion that is now a permanent fixture on the Ag grounds.
Following lunch, the afternoon activities began. Ten-minute team grooming classes took place which offered opportu-
nities for club members to bond as they teamed together. That was followed by the Heifer class and Pair of Calves class. The classes wrapped up with the Showmanship category.
The awards were then handed out. There were too many to include in this article. Highlights were Bryler Franken, who won several (Grand Champion Steer, Home Grown Champion Steer, Reserve Supreme Champion Heifer and three-year-old Continuation Heifer). His brother, Dugan also won some awards (Reserve Champion Steer, Reserve Champion Heifer and Junior Showman). Declynn
Allum took home the awards for Grand Champion Heifer, Supreme Champion Heifer and Intermediate Grand Aggregate.
Others who were given awards included Easton Meredith (Home Grown Champion Heifer), Andrew Seymour (Senior Grand Aggregate), Chett Franken (Junior Grand Aggregate), Jagger Allum (2-year-old Continuation
Heifer and Intermediate Showmanship) and Piper Bigney (Senior Showmanship). Seven-year-old Olivia Dangstorp was the recipient of a few awards, including Cloverbud Grand Aggregate and Cloverbud Showmanship.
Sunset Haven, did her part by rounding up some residents, who went outdoors to look at and even pet the cattle.
The 4-H members and the cows then returned to the Ag grounds, where the steaks were enjoyed by the members…not the cows.
The grounds were cleaned up and that signified the end of the big day.
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All these events finished a little ahead of schedule, meaning that the steaks cooked up by master barbecue chef Scott Bigney were not quite ready. On the spur of the moment, it was decided to round up a few animals for a visit to Sunset Haven, the seniors residence just across the street. Ashley Silvius, an activity coordinator at
Special thanks to Judge Tracey Wilcox, Record Book Judge Mercedes Baglole, Ring Person Casey Thompson and photographer Kianna Brooks for all their work, help and participation throughout the day.
USED SEED HAWK AI RS EED ER S
PUBLICNOTICE -RMOFMOOSE CREEK NO.33
Public noticeishereby giventhatthe Council ofthe RM ofMoose Creek No.33intendstoadopt abylaw under The Planningand Development Act, 2007 to amend BylawNo. 3-2015 known as the Zoning Bylaw. INTENT Theproposed bylawwill addwaste disposal facilities as a discretionar yuse to A- Agricultural District AF FE CT ED LA ND Th ea me nd me nt wi ll af fe ct re si de nt si nt he Agricultural District.
REASON The reason for theamendment is to allowCouncil to approve awaste disposal facility for the Town of Alameda to build anew lagoon.
PUBLIC INSPECTION AnyPerson may inspect the proposed bylaw at the RM of Moose Creek No. 33 office locatedinAlameda during regular office hours.Copies of the bylaw will be made available. PUBLIC HEARING Council will hold apublic hearing for thezoning Bylawamendment on Tuesday,July 8, 2025at10:00am at theRM ofMoose Creek No. 33 office in Alameda. The purpose of the public hearing is to hear anyperson or group thatwants to comment on the proposed bylaws. Council will also consider writtencomments received at the he arin g( or deli vered to th eu nde rsi gne da tt he municipal office before the hearing).
Issued at the RM of Moose Creek No. 33 on June10, 2025
The 16 members and six leaders of the Carnduff & Area Beef 4-H Club…all fashion coordinated. Photo courtesy of Collinda Thompson
Seniors from Sunset Haven enjoying the bovine visit. Declynn Allum (left) makes the introduction while Ashley Silvius captures the magic moment. Photo courtesy of Collinda Thompson
What’s in a name?
By Monica Foord
Frank Faber was born to Matt and Gretta Faber on August 24, 1940, south of Carlyle on the Wesley Doty farm. At 13 pounds, he came into the world with a large presence – something he maintained for the next 84 years.
God had created another farmer.
Within a few years he had become a big brother to sisters Lorraine and Cheryl. He was a constant prankster and loved the farm. He attended Green Hill School, Moose Creek School and Carlyle High School – making many lifelong friends. After Grade 12, Frank continued his education at the University of Saskatchewan taking Vocational Agriculture - and the friend list grew.
He married Elsie Pedersen in October, 1964. They would go on to raise 4 children – Monica, Marlyn, Natalie and John at the family farm 10 miles south of Carlyle. Along with grain farming there were cows. He sold the commercial cattle in the mid 70’s and a bought a herd of purebred Chianina cattle, spending many years showing cattle from Brandon to Regina to Calgary to Denver –again the friend list grew.
Frank was a family man – always supporting the kids whether it was curling, baseball, volleyball or band concerts. He coached many years of ball for the girls and John, and was involved with their 4H. One of the best things Dad did for us was build the pool. The hours of fun, the friends and family that shared it with us and the many memories made. I fondly remember the early evening swims when he would come in from the field and jump in the pool – all 4 of us kids
yelling “watch me, watch me!” That’s also where John learned to hold his breath so well!! Time goes by – graduations, weddings and grandchildren. Grandpa Frank loved when the grandkids were there –he even raised rabbits for several years just for them. Tractor rides and golf cart rides around the acreage, planting and picking the garden, picnics out back and trips to town for ice cream –so many great memories made with all of them. He also loved their trips to Lake Newell – lots of visits with family and friends, new and old. Dad was a community man too. He spent 32 years with the R.M. of Moose Creek as both a councillor and the reeve. He volunteered on the boards of the Moose Mountain Lodge, the Carlyle Memorial Hall, both the Saskatchewan and Canadian Chianina Associations, coached minor ball, helped build the Carlyle Curling Rink, spent many hours working on the Carlyle Golf Course and the ball diamonds at Lions Park. Dad was a Lions member for over 40 years. He was very proud of Carlyle and all it had to offer. He was instrumental in the Lions Pride housing project where he and Elsie have lived for the past 10 years. He had an active interest in the Alameda Dam Project, the Moose Mountain Watershed Project and had been looking into a Seniors Assisted Living Facility in Carlyle. As he neared retirement from the farm, Frank worked as a land agent for Canadian Landmasters – a job he loved as he got paid to drive around and have coffee with farmers and talk about the oil patch. He also got back into wood working – regu-
larly hosting both peers and instructors at his wood shops. He could make a beautiful pen, turn a bowl from a piece of wood from the lake, or make enough Christmas ornaments for everyone that showed up.
When Frank and Elsie moved from the farm to the acreage just south of town, he became a regular at coffee row - sometimes up to 3 times/day. He continued to golf and curl until he was 80+ and hardly missed a Cardinals ball game. Dad spent many afternoons playing cards at the Carlyle Happy Gang and other card tournaments around the countryside –more friends! He enjoyed fishing – in Northern Saskatchewan, at the Alameda Dam and several memorable salmon fishing trips on Vancouver Island with friends and family – and yup, he even had “a guy” out there!
Dad loved the farm – sharing, teaching and working. Lots of driving lessons – that “R” was for reverse not race, that when I hit the ditch in
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before August 19, 2025, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel
his new truck and walked home that I WAS going to get right back in another truck and drive him out the field (that was at about 5 miles/hour), and even in his last months giving me (and indirectly Shelley) the gears about not stopping at the tracks.
After moving to the acreage Dad spent several years farming with Todd Magotiaux – something he looked forward to and enjoyed. He liked driving that new equipment and not having to pay for it! The changes that he saw in the fields over his lifetime were exponential. What a great occupation
– feeding the world.
In his last months Dad continued to share his knowledge – mentoring Renzo on all things farming – less the goats and pigs! He made many trips out to his farm just to check in, offer advice, and make sure things were getting done right!
One of the last highlights was for Dad was the Faber Family reunion in July of 2023. Seventeen of the 18 first cousins in his generation were there – along with many others from the next generations, and a few cousins from Iowa. He spent some time gathering family history to share and acting as chauffeur/tour guide for whoever was interested. Our last family celebration was Dad and Mom’s 60th Wedding Anniversary celebrated in October of 2024 with family and friends.
Frank was a social butterfly – he had so many friends, he seemed to know everyone and everyone seemed to know him – even a parent of a little patient at my dental office in Calgary knew Dad. She was a Land Agent and commented that he was the guy who never answered his phone! One time when Darby and Elyse were 7 or 8, he took them to A&W for coffee – Darby asked if he was famous because everyone said
“Hi” to him. He humbly laughed. When we went to Club 19 for supper that night the girls decided to count the number of people that talked to Grandpa to in fact see if he was famous. As luck would have it, we were seated near the front entrance and every single person that came into the restaurant said “Hi Frank”. He was famous to us.
Dad was a faithful blood donor for many years. (Thank you Brandon for continuing to give.) We are grateful for all the blood donations that helped Dad out when he needed them most. He was diagnosed and treated for skin cancer over the past couple years and later diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. He lost his battle with cancer on November 26, 2024. Thank you to everyone who visited Dad, drove him to appointments and helped out in any way. Your kindness and friendship is greatly appreciated. What’s in a name? Frank – a classic favorite. He was a great human, a great friend, a great community member – generous with his time and resources.
We will be remembering Frank at the Carlyle Happy Gang on Saturday, June 28, 2024 from 1-4 pm. Please join us for lunch, story telling and memory sharing.
Frank Faber – a classic favorite.
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