An indigenous addition to the Ralph Allen Museum
By Paul Kimball
The board of the Ralph Allen Museum in Oxbow was considering ways to ‘freshen up’ the museum. One of the ideas was to use a room to showcase regional Indigenous culture and artifacts.
While pondering these things, board member Trina Mohrbutter received a call from Emilee Steffensen. Emilee grew up in Oxbow before moving away at the age of 10. She was interested in talking about bringing Truth and Reconciliation to Oxbow. Trina suggested that Emilee, who is a Cree artist, paint a mural on one of the walls in the museum. Emilee thought this was a great idea and suggested that it be a community mural.
On June 20th, she drew an outline that captured the ethical values of the Seven Grandfather Teachings, an Anishinaabe guide for living – love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, wisdom, and truth.
On June 21st – National Indigenous Peoples’ Day – the public was invited to do their part. For five hours, people ranging from children to seniors (including 96-year-old Otto Neuman, Oxbow’s unofficial ‘town historian’) came to colour in the outline. A paintby-number…but without the numbers. The ‘painters’ were free to colour as they wished, with a few helpful suggestions from Emilee and others. The idea of having the public participate in the completion of the mural was twofold – it helped to create awareness about Indigenous culture and it gave them a chance to be a part of history. Years from now, those who had a hand in painting the mural will be able to show their families and friends the work they did.
The mural is just the begin-
ning of the display. In time, the room will be filled with items that will feature Indigenous culture.
Emilee is well-known in the Oxbow area. She has held beading workshops and just as recently as June 20th, she appeared at the Oxbow Library to demonstrate and help others make medicine wheel inspired beaded earrings. She also participates in multi-cultural days. She is currently working with the Town of Carlyle, making Truth and Reconciliation banners. It is hoped that these will be hung from street lamps on Main Street by September.
Her artwork and events are very helpful in creating Indig-
enous awareness. She does this through her business, Moonemis Cree-ations.
Plan to drop by the museum to have a look at hers…and the community’s…latest work.
Scarlett, left, Gord, middle and Rosemarie Madsen working hard to help complete the mural. Photo by Paul Kimball
Marriage made in the military PAGE 12
Indigenous artist Emilee Steffensen receiving some ‘history lessons’ from Otto Neuman. Photo by Paul Kimball
By Stephanie Zoer
The Arcola community was bursting with colour and energy on June 14 during their Colour the Park event.
Ten years ago, the Arcola School had put on this event, and it was highly successful, so the Town of Arcola decided to give it another try.
Forty-six enthusiastic participants could walk, run, or bike the vibrant five kilometre course
filled with colour, laughter and community spirit, all in an effort to raise money for a play structure for the Ed Hanna Park.
Participants made their way through a route where amazing volunteers were stationed, ready to toss bright clouds of colour as each person passed by.
Community Calendar
Your first stop to find events happening in our community!
June
June 27, 28 & 29 – Carlyle Fun Dayz & Fair
July
July 1, 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
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.
ered with the colours of a crayon box.
Vanessa Dahl, Arcola recreation director, said that whether people walked, ran, or biked they all had a blast taking part in this lively celebration.
Each participant also wore a Colour the Park t-shirt which by the end of the course was cov-
Many of the eventers went the extra mile by fundraising additional dollars for the future improvements at Ed Hanna Park for families and kids to enjoy for many years to come.
The whole idea was to raise money for the park and Shelley Harkness was the top fundraiser with $600 in support of the park.
They also handed out the best dressed award and this honour went to Denise Sorrell and Melissa Czornobay. They wore bright coloured Hawaiian-themed outfits with slow moving signs.
This event would not be possible with the generous donations of Arcola Agencies, Arcola Co-op, Arcola Food, JJ Trucking and Monster Enterprise.
Their support made this event colourful, community focused day a reality.
“As the colour dust settled, one thing is clear, that Arcola knows how to come together for a great cause and a great time,” said Dahl.
A Birdie Derby was also held the same day at the SE Slingers Disc Golf Club.
Arcola turned into many shades with Colour the Park
This tournament saw 33 participants coming from all areas in Saskatchewan. They were able to raised $3,000 which will go towards tee boxes in the future.
Breanne Court was one of the many people who entered the Colour the Park in Arcola. It looks like she had a great time. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Dahl
From left to right, Cathy Burton and Vanessa Dahl are always busy mustering up some excitement in Arcola but this time they wore their tutu. Photo courtesy of Vanessa Dahl
Carnduff seniors enjoy a fried chicken dinner
By Paul Kimball
On June 19th, 16 seniors enjoyed a tasty fried chicken dinner with fries, potato wedges, salads, rolls and ice cream cones to top it all off. The ‘bash’ was held in Carnduff’s Friendship Centre over the lunch hour and was catered by a local restaurant, The Flying M.
There was so much food that many went home with supper.
This is something that takes place every June as a wind-up for another year of senior activities at the Friendship Centre. The number of diners has diminished over the past years, but the membership is determined to hold events for Carnduff’s aging population.
The Friendship Centre is the hub of senior events in Carnduff. Throughout the week (on Mondays and Thursdays), several get together to play canasta. On Saturdays, bingo is played. These activities start at 2:00 pm.
A TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly) program occurs on Monday evening. The fried chicken dinner was, perhaps, a version of POPI (Putting On Pounds Insensibly).
Other eating opportunities take place during the year. There’s a Christmas dinner…in January. A potluck takes place in April for the annual membership meeting. There are also senior potlucks in August and October. It is a busy place.
As well, there is a fundraising bake sale or soup and sandwich afternoon in October, where the proceeds go towards covering the costs of maintaining the Friendship Centre. Other ways of raising the needed finances come through various rentals – birthday parties, church events, funerals, anniversaries, baby showers, local business meetings… those sorts of things.
The committee of the Friendship Centre can always use new members. It is hard attracting members, as people who reach that stage of life often live in denial. A membership comes at a minimal cost - $20.
As people reach their senior or retirement years, many look for things to do. The Friendship Centre is a good place to start the search.
From left to right, Janet Dentinger, Lois Gilroy, Mona Sykes and Laura Verity - four ‘senior chicks’ thoroughly enjoying their chicken. Photo by Paul Kimball
Debbie and Harvey Stevenson, left, sitting across the table from Jim and Joan Carnduff. Photo by Paul Kimball
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Our border guards
My wife (Linda) and I are driving to Toronto this summer to visit our daughter, her fiancé and one of our grandchildren. Invariably, when we tell people our plans, the first question they ask is – “Are you taking the Canadian route or the American route?” They go on to explain that the American route is much quicker. And it is…by five minutes according to Google Maps.
What they fail to tell us is that while we’re in the States, we lose forty cents on the dollar.
What they also don’t tell us is that we have to cross the border twice. Once to leave Canada…once to get back.
That part doesn’t scare us if we have a relatively empty vehicle. But when you’re packed for two weeks, including camping and cooking gear, crossing the border comes with a bit of a risk.
Years ago, while waiting to cross the border, we were several vehicles behind one that was loaded to the gills. By the time we reached the border guard, its owner had been pulled over to the side. The suitcases had been emptied and all their personal belongings lay on the asphalt. Even some of the tires had been removed.
Fortunately, we were spared the same fate…but it did make us think about taking future five-minute saving shortcuts.
We’ve never had a difficulty crossing any border, thankfully. And maybe that’s why I have such a huge regard for border service officers (BSO), more familiarly known as border guards.
They have an incredible job to do. As one website puts it, they “ensure Canada’s security and prosperity by managing the entry of people and goods into the country, while also preventing illegal goods and inadmissible individuals from entering Canada.” They look drivers in the eye and watch for body language that signals people may be trying to pull a fast one…smuggling something across that they shouldn’t…or that they should be paying for.
The BSO’s don’t create the rules…they make sure they are followed.
If our government says items have to be taxed or duty has to be paid, the officers have no choice but to collect it. If the powers-that-be determine that something shouldn’t be brought across the border, the BSO’s have to make sure that those things aren’t coming into Canada.
The guards, unfortunately, take the brunt of people’s frustrations, even though they don’t create the laws.
It is incredible how ‘law-abiding citizens’ see nothing wrong with smuggling something illegally across the border. Some do it inadvertently, not knowing all the restrictions, but others, not agreeing with the rules, will hide things under the seat, put things deep into purses and personal body spaces, and even take out the spare tire to create another hiding space – the creativity for petty smuggling is astonishing.
Then there are those who smuggle intentionally bigtime – booze, cigarettes, guns, jewellery and bizarre things like horses, small planes…even bags of dead birds. How does one hide a small plane? Some go as far as smuggling people.
This is much more serious than inadvertent smuggling or intentional petty smuggling. Those trying to smuggle major things are usually on the wrong side of the law and BSO’s often put their lives on the line to enforce the laws they didn’t make. Thankfully, close to 20 years ago, legislation was passed that enabled BSO’s to be armed to deal with these sorts of folks.
I have a deep, deep respect for those who choose to be border service officers. Oh sure, they can come across as being gruff at times, but remember…they have to deal with all kinds of people and watch for all kinds of things. Next time you’re at the border, consider showing the respect they deserve. After all, as another website states, they “act as the country’s first line of defense against illegal goods and inadmissible individuals.”
Make mistakes
“Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
I don’t want to rain on the parade
It’s an idiom that has been around since at least the 1940s and refers to someone who spoils the enjoyment of others. It’s also a song parody taken from a melody written in 1916 but altered to create the memorable line “Every party needs a pooper, that’s why we invited you; party pooper.”
Well, I will own it. Call me party pooper. I deserve it. But let me explain.
It’s parade time all across the country as communities gear up to celebrate Canada Day, unique festivals, town anniversaries and the like. Parades are great and I have been involved in many over the years building and riding on floats or eagerly scoping out a spot to get a great view. But there is something that causes me to worry about them as well...the candy that gets tossed from floats and vehicles.
Many years ago I attended a parade where I was tasked with getting pictures. I staked out a spot on a curve set back from the street a fair bit where no one was in front of me.
It was a delightful parade. People were enjoying themselves; waving and clapping. And the children were running into the
street collecting the candy that hadn’t made its way to the spectators but landed a bit short. Back and forth the kids were running and all was fine until… She looked to be about three years old. She was wearing a red and white polka-dotted shirt and denim skirt, with a red bow in her hair. Yes, I remember all these years later. She made an indelible mark on my mind. I didn’t know who she was but I will never forget how she looked. In the rush of noise, excitement and dozens of children moving continuously, there didn’t seem to be a set of eyes on the little girl about a block away from me heading toward a piece of candy. She had ventured too far into the street and nobody close had yet noticed. Coming up next in the parade was a huge piece of farm machinery. I doubted the operator could see the tiny child just inches from the enormous tire. I was horrified. I got up and began running toward her but it was like my legs were encased in concrete with how slowly I seemed to be moving. I had no choice but to scream to alert others. Just as I was about to holler, another lady let out a shriek, ran into the street and hauled the little girl into her right arm and moved as quickly as she could from danger. That image has not left my mind. Parades are wonderful events. Parades are potentially dangerous events. A four-year-old girl in Missouri reached for a piece of candy underneath a float and was run over, resulting in multiple broken bones. A six-year-old was hit by a classic car in Michigan when he tried to grab candy too far into the street. He tripped and was struck and injured. In
Wisconsin a four-year-old boy got too close to the real dual tires of a trailer and his leg got caught and pinned, crushing it. I know, I know. Accidents happen. Children can get injured or worse on playground equipment. At swimming pools. Riding their bikes. Playing sports. Walking to school. We experienced a freak accident when our four-year-old daughter somehow maneuvered out of the canvas and fell out of the tent trailer, hurting her neck. At the age of 9 our oldest daughter took a stranger’s elbow to the nose at a wave pool and needed medical attention by theme park staff. Risk is part of all we do, I get that. It’s just that as parade time rolls around I get a queasiness in my stomach because of what happened years ago. Many jurisdictions have banned the throwing of candy at parades including in the Battlefords. Distribution must be done by walking the parade route and handing out items. This is how I have done it in the past. One year I got so busy talking to people, the parade went on without me and I never caught up. At one point I actually cut through a back alley to try and reconnect for the tail end. The people driving the float knew they lost me—but there was nothing they could do about it. We still laugh about that day. I’m not advocating for a policy. We just need to be aware that in the midst of all the fun we need to consider those who forget they might be running into the path of vehicles. A shiny candy wrapper is perhaps a bit too much to resist.
Thanks for listening. Now let’s go out and have a great parade. That’s my outlook.
- Nelson Mandela
Paul Kimball Paulywogs
Shelley Luedtke
The Terry Fox Ride of Hope cycling across Canada for the 45th anniversary
By Stephanie Zoer
When Terry Fox lost his leg to osteogenic sarcoma at the age of 18, he underwent months of treatment. He found that he could not ignore the suffering people went through in the cancer wards and this is when he decided to walk across Canada.
The Marathon of Hope was to raise awareness and money for cancer research, and 45 years later it is still going strong.
When Terry could no longer do the walk, he said “Even if I do not finish, we need others to continue.”
This year marked a special anniversary, and the Terry Fox Foundation wanted to do something unique.
Darrell Fox is Terry’s youngest brother, and he was only 18 years old when his brother passed away.
He wanted to do something extraordinary this year and this is when the cycling across Canada came up.
This has been in the works for many months, as it takes a great deal of organization.
It is not that a group just starts to bike across Canada, there is a great deal of preparation.
Nikki Rekman is the Ride of Hope coordinator, and she had her work cut out for her when this was being transformed into a reality.
People could apply to be part of the trip and four people from British Columbia and four people from Ontario
gathered in Vancouver to start the journey.
Adam Belanger, Juschka Clarke, Charlene Eden, Darrell Fox, Bill Jackes, Russ McCann, Ryan Saunders, and Joel Stoliker all have something in common and that is they have lost a friend or family member to cancer. Their quest began with training and getting their bodies ready for the many kilometres they were going to travel on bicycles to get to St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Now that the cyclists were in place others were needed for the grueling trip.
Mina Shahsavar came on as the nurse, and Wendy-Jo Kennedy is a registered massage therapist.
Bikes will break down,
system's operation and capital requirements Financial sustainability is required to ensure consumers continue to enjoy clean, safe, and long-term reliable drinking water. Ultimately, utility rates should fund the needed operating and capital costs for current and future water and wastewater services While utility rates were increased in 2024, in order to achieve full cost recovery, rates will need to be adjusted periodically to address any deficiencies
The full amount of any utility surpluses, if any, is placed in a specified reserve for future capital work on the utility to establish a fund for replacement/ repair of aging infrastructure
The Water Security Agency has advised the Village of a future requirement to install an ultraviolet light system in order to achieve a full crypto and giardia inactivation
The Village submits weekly samples to the provincial laboratory for bacteriological testing. (Total Coliform and E. Coli). Water in the distribution system is tested for Trihalomethanes and Haloacetic acids as per the conditions of the permit to operate the waterworks Testing for THM’s and HAA’s is required every two years with the next testing to be done in 2025. Test results for THM and HAA samples submitted in 2023 did not exceed the prescribed annual averages
Once every two years samples are collected from the
and Devon Pinchak is the bike mechanic, while Mike Smith is the route director.
Bonnie Fox, Darrell’s wife, is the support crew member, and Declan Koster is the photographer along the way.
As the team entered each province a group of volunteer police officers met at the border and took over.
When the group came to Saskatchewan, Constable Jamie Gray, Constable Garth Tomaschefski, Constable Saketh Katragadda, Staff Sargent Darren MacDougal, and RCMP officers J.P. Martin and Ernest Impey met the riders at the AlbertaSaskatchewan border and will escort the cyclist to the Manitoba border.
They have a very tight
itinerary and cycle on average 220 km per day and landed in Carlyle on June 18 at the Happy Gang Club where the Carlyle District Lions Club hosted a special evening for them.
Each member of the team was introduced and what their part in the Ride for Hope was.
They enjoyed a feast that the Lions had prepared, and then a question and answer section was opened up, which was well attended with eager interest.
Nearly 60 people were in attendance, they had many questions on training, what foods they took along and how many tires the team was going to go through. Each rider will use five to six tires on the trip.
So far, their trip had been pretty smooth sailing until they reached Regina and got caught in a downpour and they took refuge under an overpass.
Darrell said they have set a goal of raising one million dollars on this adventure and they have already raised $850,000.
The Carlyle District Lions Club donated $1,000, and the Regina 35 Lions Club donated $500 to the cause.
They needed to be in Winnipeg in a couple of days for a special ceremony as this is where Terry was born; they will than need to be in Thunder Bay a couple of days
later for another memorial service.
June 29, they need to be in Richmond Hill and on July 1 they have been invited to Ottawa’s Canada Day festivities.
July 9 will be the day they arrive in St. John’s for another celebration, and this will be after travelling more than 7,000 kms to get there.
The team eagerly agreed that Saskatchewan killed it with the welcome wagon, and they were pleased to be in the province.
Anyone wishing to follow the Ride for Hope or to bike with them for a short time can go to Terry Fox.org for more information.
The Carlyle Lions Club hosted the cyclist that came through town for the 45 anniversary of the Terry Fox Foundation. The club donated $1,000 and The Regina 35 Lions Club donated $500 to its foundation. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Carievale 4-H Beef Club Achievement Day results
By Teresa Cowan
The Carievale 4-H Beef Club held their Achievement Day at the Carievale Riding Arena on June 13. Our cattle judges were Justin Carvey and Gerrin Vanderslui and the record books were judged by Rhonda Halliday, Makayla Halliday, and Nicole Jedel. We started our show at 9:30 with reciting the pledge. Then the members participated in judging four steers. Jackie Gilliland was the show announcer. Karissa Elliott and Kenzie White, past members were ring personnel. Angie Cliffe was our photographer.
Results of the classes were as follows: Grooming
Cloverbud: 3rd Everett Kinsley, 2nd Bryker Beaudoin, 1st Asher Gallant
Junior: 3rd Brexton Beaudoin, 2nd Everly Beck, 1st Jaxson Gallant
Intermediate: 3rd Dane Taylor, 2nd Clara White, 1st Ben Buchanan
Senior: 3rd Cole Green, 2nd Lainee McMillen, 1st Marisol Gilliland
Judging
Cloverbud: 3rd Asher Gallant, 2nd Bryker Beaudoin, 1st Brennex Beaudoin
Junior: 3rd Evan Gilliland, 2nd Vanessa Cowan, 1st Jaxson Gallant
Intermediate: 3rd Clara White, 2nd Bella Buchanan, 1st Mya Gilliland
Senior: 3rd Cole Green, 2nd Lance McMillen, 1st Lainee McMillen Showmanship
Cloverbud: 3rd Brennex Beaudoin, 2nd Asher Gallant , 1st Bryker Beaudoin
Junior: 3rd Evan Gilliland, 2nd Vanessa Cowan, 1st Amos Gilliland
Intermediate: 3rd Dane Taylor, 2nd Clara White, 1st Mya Gilliland
Senior: 3rd Lance McMillen, 2nd Casey Brady, 1st Ryan Cowan
Recordbooks
Cloverbud: 3rd Asher Gallant, 2nd Brennex Beaudoin, 1st Bryker Beaudoin
Junior: 3rd Kaylie Carr, 2nd Amos Gilliland, 1st Vanessa Cowan
Intermediate: 1st Clara White, 2nd Bella Buchanan, 3rd Ben Buchanan
Senior: 1st Ryan Cowan, 2nd Casey Brady, 3rd Cole Green
Questionnaires
Cloverbud: 1st Bryker Beaudoin, 2nd Asher Gallant, 3rd Everett Kinsley
Junior: 1st Vanessa Cowan, 2nd Amos Gilliland, 3rd Everly Beck
Intermediate: 1st Bella Buchanan, 2nd Ben Buchanan, 3rd Paige Brady
Senior: 1st Casey Brady, 2nd Amy Gilliland, 3rd Lance McMillen
Aggregate Awards – These awards are given out to the member in each age category that has the most points from meeting attendance, participation in events, recordbook, questionnaires, and placings at Achievement Day.
Aggregate Cloverbud: Bryker Beaudoin
Aggregate Junior: Vanessa Cowan
Aggregate Intermediate: Clara White
Aggregate Senior: Casey Brady
Supreme Female: Kaylie Carr
Reserve Supreme Female: Amos Gilliland
Grand Champion Continuation Heifer: Brexton Beaudoin
Reserve Continuation Heifer: Ryan Cowan
Homegrown Heifer: Kaylie Carr
Reserve Homegrown Heifer: Casey Brady
Grand Champion Heifer: Kaylie Carr
Reserve Heifer: Amos Gilliland
Homegrown Steer: Lainee McMillen
Reserve Homegrown Steer: Everly Beck
Grand Champion Steer: Lainee McMillen
Reserve Steer: Amy Gilliland
Cloverbud Grand Champion Steer: Bryker Beaudoin
Cloverbud Reserve Champion Steer: Everett Kinsley
4-H Spirit Award: Paige Brady
All members received their 4-H certificates. The member gift this year was a vest for each member.
Our lunch was supplied by Nutrien and a delicious BBQ supper by PureChem and drinks by Carnduff Coop.
A few Gainsborough Lions members attended the supper having their picture taken with the new building that they were a sponsor of.
Great Grad Gifts!
Gainsborough Lions members in front of the new building. Photo submitted by Gainsborough Lions
Gainsborough 4H Club members picture in front of the slab fence with their new 4H vests
A large graduation ceremony in Oxbow
By Paul Kimball
June 20th was quite the evening for Oxbow Prairie Horizon School (OPHS).
A large class of 44 Grade 12 students took the stage for their graduation ceremony. Approximately 700 family members, close friends and school staff witnessed the occasion. That number likely would have been much higher, but it was a ‘by invitation only’ event.
Alaina Kinder, one of OPHS’s teachers, served as mistress of ceremonies for the evening. After a few opening remarks, she introduced the graduating class, starting with the young men and finishing with the young ladies. Once all the graduates were seated, another teacher, Jennifer Nordin sang O Canada as she played the keyboard. Kinder introduced OPHS’s Principal, Melissa Barsi. One of the songs that had accompanied the graduates’ introduction was Life Is A Highway. Barsi chose to use that song as a launch pad into her words of congratulations to the students.
The diplomas were then handed out to each student. Several of the graduates also received various awards and scholarships. A ‘big winner’ of the evening was Olivia Fonstad, who took home many of the awards. This came as a result of her impressive 98.5% average…which also gave her the privilege of delivering this year’s valedictorian speech.
She used that address to express how graduation day was bittersweet. Although it was a day that she and her classmates had been looking forward to, there was
some sadness that secondary school had come to an end. She expressed thanks to the teachers (for being educators and mentors) and to the parents.
Thankfulness to parents was a recurring theme of the evening. Several students who had an opportunity to speak, introduced themselves as being the son or daughter of their parents. That started with Mikki East, who was called upon to give a tribute to family. She indicated that she was a proud graduate as well as a proud daughter. She reminded the audience that the evening belonged to the parents just as much as it belonged to the graduates.
One of the parents, James Fonstad, gave his response to East’s tribute by stating that they were proud of the students and were looking forward to what was in store for them.
The next student up was Daxtyn Brown, who also indicated whose son he was. He then went on to indicate his thanks to the teachers, who didn’t simply teach subjects, but taught them how to think. He followed that
with words of gratitude for the entire school staff for teaching academic lessons along with life lessons.
Teacher Pamela Dmytriw responded by telling the students that they were more capable than they knew.
Graduate Shasta Lemieux then introduced the guest speaker for the evening – retired kindergarten teacher July Wallace. Lemieux stated that she felt Wallace’s choice as speaker was very appropriate in that, since she was there for the students at the beginning of their school years, that she should be there at the
end. In her speech, Wallace told the graduating class that “they were the ones who made the ripples that will create the waves that will change the world.” She reminded the students that they had come a long way since kindergarten…and that they could go a long way following graduation.
As the evening approached its end, the mistress of ceremonies gave a few closing remarks, which was followed by introducing the students once again, this time with their escorts. Once the graduates had exited the stage, a video
presentation took place, highlighting each of the grads.
The students then paraded with their escorts throughout the gymnasium and a dance followed. The evening concluded with the students going outside to be part of a walking parade that took them to the Bow Valley Villa (where they stopped to be introduced to the residents) and then down Main Street (where they stopped two more times to be introduced to those lining the streets).
And that brought the enchanted evening to its official end.
Forty-four graduating students were the stars of the show at Oxbow Prairie Horizon School. Photo by Paul Kimball
WARM THANKS
Olivia Fonstad delivers her valedictory speech.
Photo by Paul Kimball
On July 1, the people of Canada come together from coast to coast to celebrate in style with live events, entertainment, large gatherings, fireworks and parades. Living in a nation filled with wonders and treasures, as well as passionate and inspiring people, Canadians have every reason to be proud of their country. Here are some examples of what makes Canada special.
1. STUNNING NATURE
CANADA DAY: 4 reasons to celebrate this
2. DECORATED ATHLETES
Canada is a powerhouse of sports, especially in hockey, with remarkable victories in the 4 Nations Face-Off and a record for the highest number of wins among goalkeepers. Leg endary Canadian goalies like Martin Brodeur, Marc-André Fleury, Patrick Roy, Roberto Luong and Ed Belfour dominate the top five.
As the second-largest country in the world, Canada boasts breathtaking landscapes from Cape Breton to Vancouver Island, including the Bay of Fundy, the Saguenay Fjord, Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains, to name just a few. Of course, you can’t forget about the stunning Northern Lights!
Canada’s athletic achievements extend beyond hockey. Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir are the most decorated figure skaters in Olympic history. Clara Hughes has excelled in both speed skating and cycling. You can’t mention notable Canadian athletes without honouring the enduring legacy of marathon runner Terry Fox.
3. REVOLUTIONARY INVENTIONS
Many familiar inventions, including the telephone, sonar, insulin, the snowmobile, the walkie-talkie, IMAX technology, the electric wheelchair, the pacemaker, the goalkeeper’s mask and the garbage bag, stem from Canadian ingenuity.
beautiful country
4. DELICIOUS FOOD
From poutine, butter tarts, Nanaimo bars and pastries shaped like a beaver’s tail to lobster rolls, Caesars, Montreal smoked meat sandwiches and even peanut butter, Canadians know how to indulge in delicious treats.
Cheers to Canada!
CANADA DAY WORD SEARCH
Over the years, Canada has produced many artists whose talents have shone both here and abroad. Can you identify the following ten?
WHO AM I?
1. As an icon of dance sport, I was a judge on So You Think You Can Dance in both the United States and Canada.
2. An influential painter associated with the Group of Seven, I was also the first president of the Canadian Group of Painters.
and have sold over 75 million albums worldwide.
6. I have directed episodes of many popular series, including The Walking Dead and Game of Thrones
7. As a legendary guitarist and songwriter, including with The Guess Who, I have been awarded the Order of Canada.
8. A self-taught photographer, I focus on capturing moments that reflect the Arctic environment and Inuit culture.
3. The red-haired orphan with a sharp tongue that I created has travelled the world, both on paper and on screen.
4. I played a leading role in the series Cardinal and hosted the reality TV show The Traitors Canada
5. I sing both pop and jazz music
ANSWER CHOICES
A. Barbara Paterson
How well do you know Canadian artists?
B. Jean-Marc Généreux
C. Jimmy Manning
D. Karine Vanasse
E. Lawren Harris
9. I work with various materials including wax, stone, bronze and steel. I am particularly known for my “Women are Persons!” monuments.
10. In addition to being a symphony and opera conductor, I’m the musical director of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada.
F. Lucy Maud Montgomery
G. Michael Bublé
H. Michelle MacLaren
I. Naomi Woo
J. Randy Bachman
DO YOUSPEAK CANADIAN?
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double-double coffee with two creamtwo sugar chirp to insultsomeone clicks kilometres
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Village of Kisbey
A marriage made in the military
By Paul Kimball
Rob and Terry Wilson will be celebrating another anniversary later this year. How they came together is an interesting story. First…Terry’s side of the romance-to-be.
She was born in Frobisher - not far from their current home. As a teen, she joined the Air Cadets…unofficially. She was one of 13 girls who served in the Cadets ‘illegally’ since it was a ‘male-only’ organization. However, the Canadian Parliament passed a bill in 1974, allowing girls to join, so the secretiveness of it all dissipated that year.
Her Cadet experience whet her appetite for military service. While attending Estevan Comprehensive High School, she sat in on a session held by a recruitment officer in 1976. She signed up and, upon graduation, was posted to CFB Cornwallis in Nova Scotia to train as a radio technician. Following that, she went to CFB Kingston for further training. While there, she and her fiancé visited the home of Rob’s sister Karen, whose husband was stationed there.
Rob was born in Guelph, Ontario. In 1970, he joined the Army Cadets. This developed an interest in army life,
something he was familiar with since his brotherin-law was in the army. That interest was further heightened by several TV ads he saw about the adventure of the Canadian Armed Forces with the question – “Ask us about you.”
He did…and enlisted as an Air Defence Technician. He, too, was sent to Cornwallis and then to CFS Falconbridge for training.
One weekend, Rob and his girlfriend went to Kingston to visit Karen. While there, he was introduced to Terry and her fiancé. It was a casual meeting that held no pitter-patters in their hearts. Rob returned to Falconbridge and not too
long afterwards, found himself on the list of the world’s most eligible bachelors. His girlfriend had ‘dumped’ him.
In July of 1977, Terry was posted to CFS Lowther, a military base. The following month, so was Rob.
Shortly after, Rob was talking to his sister back in Kingston. She asked him where he was posted. “Lowther,” he replied. “That’s where Terry is,” Karen responded. “Terry who?” asked Rob. His sister recounted that previous meeting in her living room but also warned him to stay away from her, as she was engaged. Terry’s fiancé was in Germany at the time. Rob heeded his sister’s
warning, but it doesn’t take long to meet everyone on a small military base. Terry saw Rob sitting at the bar one day… alone…and thought she should welcome him. She approached him and asked, “How’s Karen?” At first, Rob didn’t know who she was referring to, but then she went on to remind him of their chance meeting at his sister’s home back in Kingston.
As time moved on, they became better acquainted. They met during group outings and dances. Terry’s relationship with her fiancé ended and her name was added to the list of the world’s most eligible bachelorettes. But still there were no sparks between Terry and Rob.
While in Lowther, Rob visited his family back in Guelph. Shortly into that visit, he became aware of feelings he had for Terry. They were so strong that he cut his visit short, returned to Lowther, and proposed. They had not yet dated! Terry’ response was strange and awk-
ward, “I thought you’d never ask.” Until that moment, she had been unaware of any feelings for Rob. Is it true that love is blind?
In July of 1978, Terry was posted to CFB Penhold in Alberta. A few months later, Rob was stationed at CFS Alsask, across the border in Saskatchewan. Rob occasionally travelled the four hours to see Terry. During these times, they started making wedding preparations for an April 1979 wedding. Rob and Terry both talked to their career managers about how they could be together on the same base.
“Get married as soon as possible,” they were told. They pushed their wedding day up to October 1978. The minister they had asked to marry them raised an eyebrow, asking why. He wondered if there were any ‘extenuating circumstances’…like an unplanned pregnancy.
In January of 1979, the ‘non-pregnant’ Terry moved to Alsask to be with her husband of
three months.
Two months later, Terry was sent back to Kingston for six months of temporary duty where she underwent further training. Many, many phone calls kept the passion going until they were reunited in Alsask – one week before their first anniversary.
Forty-seven years later, they are still madly in love, parents of three children, and grandparents to another five. Rob and Terry still shed tears –of happiness, that is – as they reflect on the steps that brought them together. Their marriage has more than survived the many moves that come with military life. They have been living in Oxbow for 25 years – their longest stay anywhere since ‘tying the knot’.
Their military careers are long over. Terry retired in 1981 and Rob in 1995. But they’ll never forget those years serving their country. It was, after all, what brought them together.
Terry and Rob on day one of married life. Photo courtesy of Rob Wilson Terry and Rob...happily in love almost 47 years later. Photo by Paul Kimball
Celebrating National Indigenous Day in Stoughton with a parade, dancing, and drums
By Stephanie Zoer
As the Ocean Man First Nation’s (OMFN) truck came slowly down Main Street in Stoughton it was pulling a trailer that held the drum band from the reserve.
The parade began at the Stoughton Central School and as they passed the Stoughton Tecumseh Fire Department, the residents from the Stoughton New Hope Pioneer Lodge were lined up on the street enjoying the dancers and drums as they went past.
As the drums echoed through the street and the singers sang their song, they were followed by OMFN new council member Justin Holness, and Constable Warner Ignatiuk and Constable Alex Long from the Weyburn and Fillmore Detachments.
They were followed by women and children dressed in regalia, as they jingled down the street, and at the end of the parade two riders on horses concluded the parade.
Arnold Akachuk, the Wellness Lead at OMFN Health Centre, spoke to the small crowd about the importance of the day.
Chanel Praiser is the wellness assistant and Tasheena Bison is the community enhancement worker, and together the three of them make up the team for the Wellness Health Centre.
He introduced the drum band that came from OMFN and how they have worked hard for the past several years to be the drum group they are today.
Arnold said that today, June 20 is a day that they want to share with people who they are, what their songs mean and what the dances stand for.
A teepee was con-
structed beside the Stoughton Post Office and people could go inside to see how the Indigenous people lived many years ago.
Carrie Johns, Sunshine Akachuk and Jamyes Blacksioux did the traditional dance.
This dance tells a story, and it is a celebra-
tion of life. It is a way of thanking the Creator for the four seasons, and it is a prayer for their loved ones to return home safely.
The next dance was the Shawl Dance, also known as the Butterfly Dance. This was performed by Autumn Bigstone, Harmony Bigstone and Juni
Blacksioux.
This dance often incorporates twirls, hops, and skips. The shawl has fringes and as they swing the colourful shawl around, it signifies the wings of a butterfly.
The dance mimics the gracefulness of a butterfly in flight, and it is to create a visual display of
their movements.
A feast was offered to the people who attended by the teepee where everyone had a chance to socialize or ask questions about the Indigenous heritage and culture.
This was a time for reflection, learning, and most importantly, a celebration.
National Indigenous Day is a reminder for us to commit to deepening our understanding, fostering respectful relationships, and creating a future where Indigenous voices are valued, cultures are protected, and histories are honoured every day of the year.
Indigenous dancers came down the Main Street in Stoughton to celebrate Indigenous Day. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
From left to right, Carrie Johns, Sunshine Akachuk and Jamyes Blacksioux performed the traditional dance for the crowd on Main Street. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Lampman celebrated the eight students who graduated
By Stephanie Zoer
Graduating from Grade 12 is a big step in a student’s life, and this happened on June 14 for eight students at the Lampman School.
The afternoon of graduation started with formal photos taken at the Lampman Golf Course by Wanda Harron and luckily the rain held off and the day turned out great.
When the graduates reached the school, MC Cori Howe took the stage and welcomed family and friends in the celebration that was going to take place.
Tammy Siebert and
Kimberly Veroba introduced each student as they were escorted into the gymnasium, and they took their place on the stage.
A tribute to the parents for all their support over the years was given by Tempel Johnson while Eric Johnson gave the reply.
Adam Fleck did the tribute to the teachers for all their dedication over the years with teaching them, while KayC Schroader responded with her thank you to the students.
The guest speaker Annmarie Rosner was introduced by Brendon Lischka.
Jamie Johnson delivered her speech as the valedictorian, and Tempel Johnson presented the slide show on all the students from the past years.
Cori Howe and Dawn Willock presented the graduating class with their diplomas.
The graduating class is Jamie Johnson; daughter of Kirk and Shauna Johnson and she will attend the University of Saskatchewan for Kinesiology/Education Combined Program. She received the University of Saskatchewan Entrance Scholarship, the SECTA Award, Ron and Shirley Carson Schol-
arship, Build a Better World Scholarship, and the Cargill Scholarship. She also received the Grade 12 Distinction Award and the Lampman School Grade 12 “Paws” Class of 2019 Legacy Award.
Jeremy Helm is the son of Crystal and Derrick Helm, and he plans to take time off of school and learn things that he has always wanted to do.
Conrad Hase, son of Mark and Jan Hase plans to attend SaskPower Lineman Boot Camp and become a fulltime linesman. He was also on the honour roll.
Adam Fleck, son of Ryan Fleck and Cynthis White, will be attending Old College of Agriculture taking Precision Agriculture. He received the Storlie Award and was on the honour roll.
Kadin Brokop is Tammy Dufour and Richy Brokop’s son. He will be entering the work force and become a millwright. He was on the honour roll and received
the Whitecap Recourses Bursary, Moose Mountain Wildlife Scholarship, the Lampman and District Lions Scholarship, and the Ron and Shirley Carson Scholarship.
Kole Johnson is Michelle and Cameron Johnson’s son, and he received the Robert Willock Memorial Scholarship. Kole will be entering the work force to gain his class 1A licence.
Eric and Tawney Johnson’s daughter, Tempel Johnson was on the honour roll and will attend Saskatchewan Polytechnic to obtain her Pharmacy Technician diploma.
Brendon Lischka is the son of Meghan and Cory Lischka. He too will join the work force to become a heavy-duty mechanic.
The procession of students and their escorts left the gymnasium but returned to have a first dance with their escorts and a second dance with their parents.
Instead of a banquet,
the graduating class went to the far end of Main Street for the parade. They walked along Carson Bay and picked up their escorts and walked back to Main Street.
From there they hopped on a flat deck trailer and went to the Care Home and paraded through the home and then back to the school. They broke off to their private parties at their homes and later were picked up by the paddy wagon to go to their safe graduate party and returned safely home in the wee hours of the morning.
On June 16 at the Lampman School, it is when the awards and scholarships were presented. It was also a time for the students to say farewell to Vice Principal Dawn Willcock as she is moving on next year.
A mural of photo memories was made by the Grade 12 class and placed at the entrance. It is movable and will be used for years to come.
Lampman’s 2025 graduating class, from left to right, Jeremy Helm, Kadin Brokop, Conrad Hase, Jamie Johnson, Tempel Johnson, Adam Fleck, Brenden Lischka and Kole Johnson. Photo by Tawney Johnson
White Bear First Nation celebrates graduating class of 2025
By Stephanie Zoer
Eight Grade 12 students from White Bear First Nation (WBFN) walked down the centre of the White Bear Education Complex gymnasium by either a friend, sibling, or parent to the soothing drums of Wooden Face for their grand entrance for their graduation ceremony on June 12.
The gymnasium was elegantly decorated in red, white, and black, and was filled with family and friends to help with the big steps these students are taking into their future.
Each year that students graduate they are presented with a star blanket, and it was no different this year.
The graduation caps were made by Steffanie Agecoutay, and the star blankets were made by Flora Littlechief.
A star blanket holds deep cultural and ceremonial significance in Indigenous communities. It represents honour, respect, and recognition.
It is seen as a symbol of reciprocity and respect, with the energy invested in its creation being transferred to the person receiving it.
Chief Jonathon Pasap of WBFN spoke to the group of graduates telling them how proud he was of their accomplishments.
That they need to stay true to themselves and their culture and to remember their heritage.
He reminded them to remember the teachings of their ancestors, and the strength of the community that they come from.
One of the eight graduating students was Aneesa Kakakaway. She was also the valedictorian and will attend the University of Regina to study science.
Kingston Shepherd, Leigha Kakakaway, Maria Fiddler, Kirklin Nahbexie and Laban Kakakaway have no
definite plans as of yet.
Nathaniel Redstar will take a year off of school and then further his education in mechanics.
Like most celebrations, a feast was prepared, and
Go to church anyway
In a recent hospital visit, I met a Catholic lady and asked her if she wanted to receive communion. Without hesitation she replied, “No.” She went on to complain about the priest and church members in her congregation who were lacking in charity. There appeared to be no redeeming factor on her church experience horizon.
In later considerations I realized what I might have said to counter her negativity and leave her with some hope. On this day I left her with a blessing and shared a prayer to Mary, the “untier” of knots.
If Jesus were alive today, would he get into trouble for inviting people to church? On a recent Facebook post, I picked up the following message: If you’re having sex before marriage, go to church anyway. If you are a drug addict trying to beat addiction, go to church anyway.
If you were out drunk all night the night before, go to church anyway. If you aren’t sure what gender you prefer, go to church anyway. If you can’t quit that disgusting habit, go to church anyway.
Church is a hospital for the broken, lost, empty, confused, desperate and rejected!
Every sinner has a future, and every saint has a past. How do we break the chains of addiction and bondage? By prayer... Prayer for you. Prayer with you!
There isn’t a single person in the four walls of the church that doesn’t have something they hate or regret about their past.
We’ve all made mistakes and will continue to, But
USED SEED HAWK AI RS EED ER S
Pause for Reflection
KEN ROLHEISER
www.kenrolheiser.com
His Grace is enough.
There are things that I’d never want to admit out loud about myself, but God knows. And He loves me nonetheless. So whatever you’ve done, whatever you’re doing, whatever you will do...it might just change your life if...you go to church anyway!
In A Bigger Table, Pastor John Pavlovitz challenges us to be a more inclusive church. In his invitation to readers he says: “No one likes to eat alone; to approach a table filled with people, only to be told that despite the open chairs there isn’t room for you. The rejection stings. It leaves a mark.”
This is exactly what the church has been saying to far too many people for far too long – “You’re not welcome here. Find someplace else to sit.” Sometimes
this was done by Garnett Lonethunder. Everyone is always welcome to stay for this meal, and it encourages people to stay and enjoy the meal and the social that follows.
admitting the truth hurts.
Pavlovitz asks, “How can we extend unconditional welcome and acceptance in a world increasingly marked by bigotry, fear, and exclusion?” The Christian community has been earnestly wrestling with: LGBT inclusion, gender equality, racial tensions, and global concerns.
In A Bigger Table Pavlovitz looks for a way to build a church where everyone gets a seat. His subtitle suggests Building Messy, Authentic, Hopeful Spiritual Community. It may be messy, but we need to build anyway.
In the Catholic Church the Jubilee year Pilgrims of Hope emphasizes the church as an open door. Pope Francis said, “Let the Church always be a place of mercy and hope, where everyone is welcomed, loved and forgiven.”
The Church is Christ with open arms on the Cross saying to the sinner, “This day you will be with me in paradise.” Through the church, Jesus provides food for our journey towards heaven.
This is a good year to attend church and study the bible. Statistics show that only .001 per cent of all deaths occur in church during worship services. The percentage of deaths during bible study is even lower.
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The graduating class from White Bear First Nation are: back row left to right, Aneesa Kakakaway, Kingston Shepherd, and Leigha Kequahtooway. Front left to right, Maria Fiddler, Kirklin Nahbexie, Laban Kakakaway and Nathaniel Redstar. Photo by Chylisse Marchand
Fallon Belisle honoured at Bellegarde’s graduation ceremony
By Paul Kimball
On Friday the 13th, Fallon Belisle held a rather unique distinction – she was the only person on the face of the earth who was graduating in the small community of Bellegarde.
Ecole Bellegarde is a small French-speaking school that is home to 77 students. It is the only francophone school in southeastern Saskatchewan. Considering averages, there should be six students in each class from kindergarten to Grade 12. But over the years, each of the students that had been in her class moved away from the community, leaving her as the ‘last one standing’, the only classmate to spend all those years at the same school.
Close to 50 family members and friends, including four of her classmates that had moved away previously, were on hand to celebrate Fallon’s accomplishments. Not only did she receive her diploma, she also was honoured with the fransaskois sash, la ceinture fléchée, that is given to all graduating students within the Conseil des écoles fransaskoises school division. The sash represents the francophone culture and heritage of the students and is an emblem of recognition for students as they
By Stephanie Zoer
Madison Mould was born and raised on a farm just outside of Windthorst, Saskatchewan by her parents Michael and Nancy Muscoby.
Mould attended the Windthorst School until its closure in 2006, and then she went to Kipling School until the start of Grade 10.
During those years she was badly bullied in school for her height.
Mould is 6 foot 4 inches tall since she was 12 years old and ended up bullied by kids and adults and developed severe anxiety.
The bullying became unbearable, and this is when Mould decided to stay home and finish her schooling on line, and she also started to get serious about her artist skills.
Having loved art since she could pick up a pencil, she turned more to her art as a way to relax, have peace and escape from the bullying.
travel and pursue their dreams. It complemented the beautiful gown that Fallon wore for her ceremony.
A slideshow was presented, showing pictures of her childhood and her years at Ecole Bellegarde. It featured her love for sports, such as track and volleyball, along with class trips that she had been a part of and various projects that she had been involved in.
Her former classmates spoke during the ceremony, sharing fond memories of their time together and encouraging her to keep in touch.
Fallon, being the sole graduate, was a unanimous choice to give the valedictorian address. She used it to thank her family and express her gratefulness to her teachers and former classmates for their support over the years and the enjoyable times that they shared together.
Following the ceremony, all those who attended were invited to the Community Hall for a supper hosted by Fallon’s family.
Fallon’s immediate plans are to enter the workforce. She already has something lined up – working for the research farm in Redvers.
Friday the 13th turned out to be far from unlucky for Fallon. It was a great night for her, her family and her friends.
When she graduated Grade 12 Mould took a course through the University of Regina to get her certificate in Local Government Administration.
Mould married her high school sweetheart, William Mould and they have a three year old son, Finley. They live on the family farm in the house that Mould grew up in.
Her art has always been a passion, and she loves to dabble in many forms of it, whether it be watercolour, acrylic or oil. She also loves to draw with black marker, giving her art a unique appearance.
Not only does she dabble with the black marker on paper, but she digitally uses procreate on her iPad, and is also doing some woodburning art.
Mould loves to try new techniques and styles, and she is very versatile when it comes to her artwork.
Although she paints everything from nature, people and buildings,
recently she has focused on animals with her watercolour.
It gives the paintings a messy look, yet they are incredibly detailed.
Mould likes to alternate her styles by not only using a canvas but using clothing to give them that special touch.
Michelle Psiurski is a friend of the family, and she has attended the Moose Mountain Provincial Park Artist Colony (MMPPAC), so Mould thought to give it a try.
She looks forward to getting her name out there and hopes to bring something unique and different to the Artist Colony.
“I have never done anything like this before and I look forward to all the firsts that this might bring,” said Mould.
“I am excited for the opportunity to share my art with more people and with other artists,” she said.
Mould will be attending the Artist Colony from June 24-30.
-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
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
Fallon Belisle, receiving her diploma from Principal Malena Wolensky to go along with the sash she had already been given. Photo courtesy of Melissa Cosgrove
Madison Mould turned to her art when she was badly bullied in school and now, she designs signs, tattoos and even headstone etchings. Photo by Madison Mould
Conexus, Synergy and Cornerstone credit unions set for next steps after members say yes to merger
By John Cairns SaskToday.ca
Leaders with Conexus Credit Union are enthusiastic after their members voted yes to a merger with Synergy and Cornerstone Credit Unions.
“As board chair and as a board, we are very excited and very proud of how our members engaged in this process and voted,” said Ken Kosolofski, board chair of Conexus Credit Union.
Results were announced June 18 and each credit union easily surpassed the 75 per cent threshold needed. The results saw 87.5 per cent Conexus members voting yes, 86.5 per cent from Cornerstone and 88.7 per cent from Synergy. Just under 20,000 members voted from all three credit unions out of a possible 200,000 members. Still, the leaders of Conexus feel this is a mandate to move ahead.
“We did get overwhelming support and there’s a resounding mandate for us to create a strong, competitive, community-focused credit union and that would be not only for today’s members, but for future members,” Kosolofski said. “So we’re very, very happy today.”
“I would just say we’re energized by that vote of confidence and are eager to deliver the benefits and value to our members,” said Celina Philpot, CEO of Conexus Credit Union.
“Overall, we were really impressed of how members wanted to engage in their level of understanding and knowing that this is a big decision they had to make and they were completely focused on the issue. They had really great questions and just to see that level of engagement was really inspiring for me and just demonstrated how much care our members have for their credit union.”
Philpott believes that the engagement with members made a big difference in answering questions and alleviating concerns that were raised.
She said during the outreach, one of the questions posed was: are you going to close my branch? “No. We were able to make the commitment. We are not closing branches. We’ve done our work. This merger does not require branch closures to make this thing work. And we don’t have overlaps in our 57 branches throughout the province. There’s no overlap. So, that was a commitment.
“A second one, which is critically important to our members, and just shows the level of engagement and care they have in their credit union, is the staff. We really like the staff. There’s a trust there. We like our relationship. Are you committed to keeping the staff? And we said yes. We are committed to keeping the staff. For those who are engaged and
want to be part of this new journey, we will work with them to find a role for them, meaningful employment, because we know how important that relationship and that trust is that our members have built with our employees.”
As for why the membership supported the merger so strongly, Kosolofski said “I think that there was a very strong business case here.”
“And then after that, we had a very comprehensive member outreach program. We answered a number of questions from our members. We had a number of news releases that went out and obviously interviews with the press, which helped us to get the message to the members. We had virtual town halls. We had a special meeting in early June to kick off the voting. We had branch visits both with the executive and also with board members. So, you know, we really went out and promoted this. The board recommended this merger to the membership and the membership was very, very good. They were very engaged in the process, asking a lot of really, really good questions. And then at the end of the day, voting and voting in favor of it. So, we’re very pleased.”
Next steps
So now that the vote results are in, the three Credit Unions start the process of merging.
Kosolofski described the next steps from a board perspective.
“The next task for the boards of all three credit unions is to get together and pick a name. It’s going to be the name of one of the three credit unions, Connexus, Synergy and Cornerstone. And we have an independent thirdparty consultant that’s helping us with that. The second and probably the most important is to pick a CEO and it will be one of the CEOs from the three credit unions.”
Kosolofski said they are also putting together an integration team. “And that really is to start talking about things that we can and can do before January 1, 2026 to get us best prepared for this new credit union to start.”
Philpot said that it was important to note that “until we legally become a merged entity, we have to continue to operate as three separate organizations as we are under the oversight of the Competition Bureau. And that is kind of what is required. But we are spending that time just pre-planning, trying to understand what the work effort is going to look like in order to bring these three organizations together. So that’ll be kind of what the management team will be focused on is that planning, trying to understand what that would look like and set some of those key milestone dates and work towards then looking at
TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST
an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land
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the implementation activities that will happen in 2026.”
As far as the members are concerned, they won’t see changes in 2025. Conexus, Synergy and Cornerstone will continue to operate separately to that time.
Philpot said that even with the Jan. 1 date, “it’s a legal date. So I would say there’s going to be many firsts throughout 2026. And we will communicate that well in advance with members as those kind of timelines become put into place. And we have some clarity on what those activities will look like.”
“We’re committed to supporting members along this whole process. So come Jan. 1, 2026, if there are changes, we’re going to be communicating them, being very transparent with our mem-
bers and making sure that we support them through the changes.”
As for what that integration process will look like, officials admitted they haven’t had a chance to come together to understand what that integration process would look like, given that the focus up to now was on getting the merger approved.
“Our members needed to support this… if they didn’t, we wouldn’t exercise any more energy,” said Philpot. “So this is what’s unique about a credit union compared to other financial institutions. Our members have a say in the direction that their credit union takes. So that’s why we needed to make sure we created the awareness and waited to hear from our members which direction they wanted their credit union to go in.”
Carlyle United Church
202-2nd St. W. Sunday Services: 10:00 a.m.
Big changes are coming in the next year to three Credit Unions that will be merging into one entity. Seen here, a Conexus Credit union branch. Photo supplied
CLASSIFIEDS AD RATES
IDA MAE BRYANT
Febr uar y 22, 1941–June 5, 2025
With heavy hear ts and deep gratitude for a life so r ichly lived, we announce the passing of Ida Mae Br yant (née: Wilson), who left us peacefully on Thursday, June 5th, 2025, at the age of 84 years A woman whose humour and presence could br ighten any room, Ida Mae left an indelible mar k on ever yone for tunate enough to know her Bor n on Febr uar y 22nd, 1941, in Arcola, Saskatchewan, just outside of Car lyle, Ida was raised alongside her siblings on the family far m by their devoted parents, Thomas and Mina Wilson Life on the prair ies taught her the value of hard wor k, perseverance, and humilit y qualities she carr ied throughout her life and passed on to her family Ida marr ied Ber t Br yant on September 5th, 1959, in Car lyle, Saskatchewan Together, they settled in Moose Jaw, where they raised their three beloved sons Kelly, Jeff and Gar y As a mother, she was fiercely loving, endlessly suppor tive, and always present She balanced her family life with a long and respected career as billing administrator for C&E Mechanical
A lifelong lover of games and competition, Ida was a talented cur ler who proudly represented Team Saskatchewan at the Canadian Mixed Nationals in Thunder Bay, Ontar io She was also a highly accomplished br idge player, ear ning the rare and distinguished title of Lifetime Br idge Master Whether on the ice or at the card table, she brought skill, grace, and genuine joy and made fr iends wherever she went
Tragically, Ida became a widow on May 14th, 1996, after losing Ber t to cancer Though those years were difficult, her spir it remained strong and her hear t open In time, she reconnected with longtime fr iend Don MacDonald, whom she had or iginally met through the br idge communit y Their fr iendship blossomed into a deep and endur ing love, and on September 2nd, 2018 they marr ied Together, Ida and Don embar ked on a new chapter full o f travel, companionship, and shared laughter Don became not only a cher ished par tner to her, but also a beloved grandfather figure and mentor to her sons Together Ida and Don explored the wor ld created treasured memor ies and brought joy to all who knew them Her life was r ich with deep relationships meaningful adventures and unwaver ing kindness She was predeceased by her parents Thomas and Mina Wilson; her beloved first husband Ber t Br yant; sister Margaret Rutten; stepson Bradley MacDonald; and stepdaughter Karen Rodenbush Ida is sur vived by her loving husband Don MacDonald; brother Jimmy Wilson (Audrey); sons: Kelly Br yant (Anita) Jeff Br yant (Ar la) and Gar y Br yant (Tr ish); stepdaughter Jan Walker (Paul); and stepson Cor y MacDonald She was proud grandmother to David (Brandi) Melissa (Trevor) Colby (Cassidy) Josh Jordan Brody (Anna) Dalton (Sammi) and Luke and a cher ished greatgrandmother to Jace Josie Par ker and Nash Ida also leaves behind numerous step-grandchildren and countless fr iends who were touched by her war mth generosit y and unshakeable positivit y Ida’s family would like to say a special thank you to the doctors nurses and staff at the Moose Jaw Dr F H Wigmore Regional Hospital Like so many others they seemed to take a special liking to Ida and their compassion kindness and attentive care meant the wor ld to her and her loved ones A Celebration of Ida’s life will be held at a later date in Car lyle Saskatchewan where Ida will be reunited with Ber t at their final resting place
Ida Mae Br yant made life br ighter Whether you met her once or knew her for a lifetime she left you better than she found you Her impact is immeasurable her legacy ever lasting and she will be deeply missed by all Arrangements are entr usted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberr y Lane Gar y McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www moosej awfuneralhome com
Bingo ever y Tuesday at the Four Seasons Drop in Centre, Kenosee Lake @ 7pm star t time Jack Pot is at $560 Luck y 7 is at $297
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
Motor scrapers, dozers, excavators, rock trucks, packers; wide range of machines.
Lots of work all season. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0;
Volunteers needed for the Meals on Wheels program for the Carlyle Area
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Meals On Wheels is currently looking for volunteers for Carlyle and area to help deliver meals.
“Meals on Wheels is a home care program that is supported by volunteer services. This program provides nutritionally balanced meals to the client’s home, based on client need and availability of service,” explained Dana Fowler volunteer services coordinator with the Sask. Health Authority for the Carlyle, Arcola area.
“Meals on Wheels helps clients maintain as much independence as possible, with the goal being that these meals will help people to stay in their own homes and have their nutritional needs met,” continued Fowler. “It can be offered as a short-term support, a client recovering from surgery, or long-term support for clients in need of more supports.”
To fulfill this mission Fowler and those Meals on Wheels are looking for volunteers for the Carlyle area.
“Volunteers gain a sense of fulfillment and purpose by interacting with these members of the community, contributing to their mental, social, emotional, and physical well-being,” said Fowler.
“Meals on Wheels numbers are ever-changing, and we would love to have any interested people join our volunteer team,” continued Fowler.
Anyone interested in volunteering can send a note to volunteers@saskhealthauthority.ca stating that they are interested in becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer for the Carlyle area.
Volunteer applicants go through an application and screening process:
• Application
• Interview
• References
• Confidentiality Agreement
• Criminal Record Check
• Orientation Process
“I will work with each applicant to complete this, the whole process can happen within roughly a twoweek period. Sometimes (it’s) a little shorter, (but) sometimes a little longer,” said Fowler.
Volunteers will be scheduled as they are available and can refuse delivery at any time.
“Meals on Wheels is a program that benefits so many people and it truly is more than just a meal,” said Fowler.
Meals On Wheels is currently looking for volunteers for Carlyle and area. Photo courtesy D. Fowler
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PUZZLENO. 294