Conservative Bonk claims strong victory in Souris-Moose Mountain
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Conservative candidate Steven Bonk has secured a commanding win in the Souris-Moose Mountain riding, capturing 83.9 per cent of the vote in Monday’s federal election.
With 209 of 211 polls reporting, as of Monday evening, Bonk received 33,582 votes, far ahead of his nearest competitor, Liberal candidate Aziz Mian, who earned 3,850 votes, or 9.6 per cent. New
Democrat Sheena Muirhead Koops followed with 1,808 votes, or 4.5 per cent.
Green Party candidate Remi Rheault received 356 votes, Canadian Future Party candidate Lyndon Dayman took 296, and Independent candidate Travis Patron collected 154.
In total, 40,046 valid votes were cast in the riding, representing a voter turnout of 72.32 per cent among the 55,375 registered electors. The population of SourisMoose Mountain is 75,208.
SUMA o ered great opportunities for towns and municipalities
By Stephanie Zoer
Mayor Jennifer Sedor once again had the opportunity to attend the SUMA convention in Saskatoon from April 13-16 with council members Gord Paulley, John Brownlee, Tracey Van Dresser, Hugh Hislop, Huguette Lutz, and Kelly Lutz, along with the Chief Administrative Officer Natalie Miller.
Together they had the opportunity to network, solve problems with other municipalities, and seek out innovative solutions at tradeshows.
“This year’s event featured keynote speaker Dr. Gabor Mate, who spoke at length on addiction in municipalities,” said Sedor.
Dr. Mate is a Hungarian born, Canadian physician who has a background in family practice, with a special interest in childhood development, trauma, and potential lifelong impacts on physical and mental health.
His approach to addiction focuses on the trauma his patients have suffered and looks to address this in their recovery.
He has written five books which include topics such as ADHD, stress, developmental psychology, and addiction.
“His message of providing support to families, especially young children and expecting parents, as well as focusing on ac-
cessible housing as preventative measures to addiction was well received,” said Sedor.
The Carlyle Mayor, Carlyle’s Chief Administrative O cer and Town Council attended SUMA 2025 in Saskatoon. Back row left to right, Gord Paulley, Jennifer Sedor, Natalie Miller, and John Brownlee. Front row left to right, Tracey Van Dresser, Hugh Hislop, Huguette Lutz, and Kelly Lutz. Absent was Lauren Hume. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Sedor
DONUTS & COFFEE
May
Fri, Sat & Sun – May 2, 3, & 4 - Cornerstone Theatre - Carlyle
Wed, May 9 – Cribbage Tournament – Village of Kenosee
Tues, May 13 – Community Building Presentation – Carlyle
Thurs, May 15 – Community Building Workshop - Stoughton
By Kaitlynn Nordal
They chose this play after some involved with the theatre went to see it in Regina.
“They all found it hilarious and thought it was the one we should do,” said Co-director Dianne Twietmeyer. “They thought it was funny and could see that it was something suited to our group. When I got to read the play, I thought people are going to love this play.”
Deceiving Granny, by Michael J. Taylor, was
Carlyle Baker y c found at these
Retailers
decided on at the end of February and at the beginning of March they were already building sets and doing rehearsals.
“It all came together very quickly,” said Twietmeyer. “We have a fantastic cast.”
“We haven’t done a real farce for years. When we did them in the past, everyone enjoyed them. From the very beginning, the cast loved this play. They have loved being in it. They learned their lines right away. It came
Estevan -Little J's Food Town -938 EvaStreet
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Oxbow -SouthernPlains Co-op
Your rst stop to nd events happening in our community!
June
Sat, June 7 – Lobster Fest – Carlyle June 27, 28 & 29 – Carlyle Fun Dayz & Fair
2026
Tues to Sat - Mar 25 -29 – 125th Arcola Curling Club Bonspiel
Theatre goers are in for a treat with Carlyle’s
Cornerstone
Theatre performing Deceiving Granny as their spring play
together so quickly,” continued Twietmeyer.
They have been rehearsing twice a week since the beginning of March.
“No one is tired of it,” said Twietmeyer. “We are all so into it. It’s so fun.”
Twietmeyer does not want to give the plot away.
“I don’t want to give too much away because it’s a comedy but it’s also a mystery,” said Twietmeyer. “It’s a farce full of slapstick and a lot of very funny characters.”
“Without giving too much away it’s about a young couple trying to impress a grandmother that they have never met to inherit three million
dollars,” continued Twietmeyer. “But the people will have to come and see it to see what the deception is.”
Twietmeyer says this is the perfect palate cleanser after the federal election.
“The main thing people need to know is that it is a very funny comedy,” said Twietmeyer. “Once the election is over and people can just go back to being friends with each other again this will be a great night out or Sunday afternoon out to just have a good laugh.”
They have built an intricate set that Twietmeyer is excited for everyone to see.
“It’s a basic living room
set except that there is an upstairs section with bedrooms and seven different openings. There are lots of doors that people will be running in and out of,” said Twietmeyer.
“It’s a gorgeous set. People will have to come and see it. They will want it for their own,” continued Twietmeyer.
Deceiving Granny will be at the Cornerstone theatre on May second and third with cocktails at 7 p.m. and the show starting at 8 p.m. The May fourth matinee will be at 2 p.m.
The Legion will be catering this year’s dessert theatre.
“We have done many years of dinner theatre
so we thought this year we would try something different to keep the cost down for people,” said Twietmeyer.
“The plot revolves around brownies, so the dessert is going to be a variety of brownies and toppings,” continued Twietmeyer.
Tickets are $25 which covers a person’s ticket, snacks, and dessert served at intermission.
Tickets can be purchased by emailing grannymay25@yahoo.com or by calling Don Carter at 306-453-2229. Those in charge ask you to use email if possible, and you will receive a confirmation email once your tickets have been reserved.
(L-R) Sophie Turk, Colleen Easton, Megan Mcauley, Joan Bue, Foster Warriner, Monte McNaughton, Shannon Klatt, Bertha Isleifson, and Jessica Shirley rehearse for the opening night of Deceiving Granny. Photo courtesy D. Twietmeyer.
Ice Bucket Challenge 2025 freezes the stigma around mental health
By Paul Kimball
Jennifer Sedor has been the mayor of Carlyle for five years. Along with all the responsibilities that title carries, she is often called upon to do things that a typical community resident might never be invited to do.
One of those things came last Saturday. Her daughter Finn, who is a Grade 12 student at Gordon F. Kells High School challenged Mom to take part in the Ice Bucket Challenge 2025. “You are the mayor, after all.” Jennifer had 24 hours to accept or reject the challenge. She accepted.
What is the Ice Bucket Challenge 2025?
You might remember the Ice Bucket Challenge of a few years ago that was intended to raise awareness and money for ALS – commonly called Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Professional athletes, Hollywood stars, people who were in the public eye and many who weren’t took up the challenge and much of the mystery surrounding ALS disappeared.
braving the elements and the ice water to bring awareness to mental health. Photo courtesy of
This year, students of the University of South Carolina’s MIND Club (Mental Illness Needs Discussion) felt that something needed to be done to bring
better awareness to mental illness. Remembering the effectiveness of the Ice Bucket Challenge and ALS, they decided to resurrect the Ice Bucket idea. The ‘ice’ component led to a slogan – freeze the stigma around mental health.
Every student was encouraged to take the challenge themselves and then challenge three others to take it up as well. From that humble beginning, the Ice Bucket Challenge has spread quickly, even recently touching our corner of the province. Touching the deck of Jennifer’s home.
On a cold, rainy, wet Sunday afternoon, there Jennifer stood, conveniently just a few feet from a well-heated hot tub. The sight of that helped to soften the blow as her son Tayo dumped five gallons of ice water, mingled with cubes of ice, over her head and body. Quickly, she plunged into the hot tub…the challenge had been accepted and completed.
But not quite. Part of accepting the challenge is to challenge three others to go through the same thing…perhaps without the hot tub. Jennifer has
challenged three community leaders and two have accepted. Jade Moore of King’s Department Store had her ordeal outside of her store on Monday and Naomi Twietmeyer, the librarian of Carlyle’s Public Library took the plunge in White Bear Lake. As well, three others who were not challenged did it anyway – Jennifer’s seven-year-old daughter June, her eight-year-old niece Cora and her 30-something friend over at the Carlyle Observer, Dolores Young who is actually taking the challenge at noon on Thursday in front of The Observer. Plus…Jennifer also suggested, without challenging, that the writer of this article consider doing it as well. So, the word about mental health is continuing to be heard as people accept the challenge of becoming a link in the Ice Bucket Challenge chain. As well, awareness is being directed to Envision Counselling and Support Services. They have four locations in our region (Carlyle, Oxbow, Estevan and Weyburn) that offer free resources and counselling to those who are affected by mental health.
The importance of May 5, liberation of the Netherlands
By Doug Waldner
Recently May 5th, or as it is known in Spanish, Cinco de Mayo, has become a day to have a party. Cinco de Mayo is the recognition of an important battle in Mexican history. However, May 5th has a much more sombre meaning for Canadians, and a joyous meaning for those in the Netherlands.
Eighty years ago, on May 5, 1945, the battle for the Netherlands was over and German forces surrendered to Canadian Lieutenant-General
Charles Foulkes. This surrender ended the German occupation that had begun in May 1940. The German occupation of the Netherlands had caused hardship, privation and starvation as the occupiers did everything in their power to suppress the populace.
The Diary of Anne Frank was written during this time, while she and her family were hiding in Amsterdam from the German occupiers and documented the horrors they faced.
The Allied effort to free the Netherlands
had begun in September 1944 and required eight months of fighting through the winter and heavy resistance by German forces. The obstacles they faced included heavily entrenched positions and environmental obstacles such as vast areas flooded by the Germans in an effort to inhibit them. The lead forces in this battle were the Canadian military, although they had aid from other allies. A famous painting by renowned Canadian wartime artist, Alex Coleville, shows exhausted
SUMA attended by Town of Carlyle representatives
« A1 Gord Paulley is in his second term of being on Carlyle Town Council and he felt the convention went well and it gave him the chance to reacquaint himself with long-time friends, councillors, mayors, and politicians from all over the province.
“Carlyle is fortunate to have few of the problems that many Saskatchewan towns and cities have, such as property crime, homelessness and drug usage,” said Paulley.
Paulley mentioned that Carlyle is lucky to have a large RCMP detachment which makes residents feel safe and protected.
He said that many issues are discussed at SUMA including that everyone was pleased that it will be legal to demolish dilapidated and unsafe old buildings from their properties.
“It appears that the government is making headway in health care by attracting new nurses and doctors to the province and lowering surgery wait times,” said Paulley.
Natelie Miller attended her eighth SUMA convention, and she was happy to see that the majority of the council members were there and were able to take in the sessions and learn together.
“The keynote address given by Dr. Gabor Mate was a highlight of the week,” said Miller.
“He provided a wealth of informa-
tion on addictions and mental health from a doctor’s perspective who has treated patients in the area for many years,” Miller said.
Miller said that Dr. Mate noted that most addictions originate from a distressing life situation and history and how important it is to nurture children, starting during pregnancy and through to adulthood as the brain develops.
Nurturing includes access to housing, nutrition, education, and social engagement, all items that urban communities strive to provide, including Carlyle.
“The session provided much to think about as we come back to our own communities,” said Miller.
They all enjoyed the open forms at the convention where communities stood up and shared their own experiences or concerns.
It provides an opportunity to learn from other communities from their experiences and know that they do not stand alone with the challenges that they face as a community.
Sedor and council had the opportunity to learn about recording community history, conflict resolutions, dialogue with the Minister of Health and with SaskBuilds.
SUMA 2025 is once again in the books and another great educational experience for those that attended.
Canadian soldiers trudging across a flooded field during the battle.
The Canadian forces, The First Canadian Army, that were involved in this battle ranged from 105,000 to 175,000 service personnel and was the largest Canadian military force that had been assembled. More
than 7,600 Canadian military personnel sacrificed their lives in this battle for freedom. The final resting places for those lost are honoured throughout that land.
Although the date of the surrender in the Netherlands is often overlooked because the war in Europe ended
only two days later with the ultimate surrender of Germany on May 7,1945, the population of the Netherlands have never forgotten those Canadians who fought and died to free them from oppression and occupation. The sacrifice of those who gave so much for the Netherlands is honoured and revered to this day.
If you attend a Cinco de Mayo party be sure to enjoy it. But this year, the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands, please take a moment to pause and honour the sacrifice of those who gave so much to allow us to enjoy the freedoms that we have. Be assured that the people of the Netherlands are thanking and honouring Canada and Canadian forces for their freedoms.
Carlyle Memorial Hall May 5-8, 2025
DROP OFFHOURS
Sun 10am-1pm• Mon& Tues 10am-5pm
SALE HOURS
Mon10am-5pm• Tues &Wed 10am-7pm Thurs10am-3pmBAG DAY
LunchprovidedbyCarlyle Legion M-W DickensV illage Festival
Mayor Jennifer Sedor
Jennifer Sedor
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Thankful for nurses
Last week, my wife (Linda) and I went to Winnipeg. That’s where we met 48 years ago and where we raised our family. Our oldest daughter’s family still lives there, as does my wife’s parents.
Linda’s parents continue to mourn the loss of their son, who passed away unexpectedly at the beginning of January. Her dad has dementia, so he doesn’t understand the magnitude of the loss, but her mom does. As a bit of a diversion, we suggested going out for a drive to take a tour down memory lane, including driving by homes that Linda’s parents used to live in before settling into their current apartment.
It turned out to be a journey into the past for me as well. My mother, who had lived with us for a few years about 15 years ago during a rough stretch in her life, passed away in 2013 at the ‘youngish’ age of 76. As we were driving, we were about to drive past a cemetery when it occurred to me that was where my mom had been interred.
I braked and veered into the cemetery and went looking for her burial spot. She had been cremated and her urn had been placed in a columbarium. A columbarium is like an apartment for the departed…a wall with many units housing urns that contain the ashes of the deceased. There were several columbaria on the grounds, and I had a hard time remembering where she was, as I had not visited her since Mother’s Day of the year she passed.
Surprisingly, the first one I looked at was the right one. I didn’t stand there long, as Linda and her parents remained in the car, but a flood of memories quickly flashed through my mind.
For reasons unknown to me, one of them was of her final years when she lived in a personal care home. I had mixed feelings about her being there, but her condition was such that there wasn’t much choice. One of the things that made it hard for me was watching how the nurses cared for her. There were one or two who were filled with TLC (tender loving care) but most were cold and mechanical, seemingly putting in their hours solely for the paycheque that awaited them.
I mention this because I have often visited personal care homes since moving to Carnduff in 2014. I’ve also spent time in hospitals as a patient and it appears to me that the ‘TLC’ nurses have converged on Saskatchewan. I’ve yet to meet a nurse who wasn’t caring and compassionate to me or to the people I visit. I’m sure there are some out there…but they haven’t entered my world.
Nurses are a special group of people. They usually see people at their neediest, people who are in need of extra tenderness and compassion. Sometimes, this means they see people at their ‘grouchiest’, if you know what I mean.
Nurses face the hard emotions of knowing that the ones they serve don’t have much time left, especially in personal care homes. But that doesn’t stop them from making the extra effort to ensure their patients’ homestretch is a time where they’re loved and cared for… masking their own grief to provide joy for the ones in their care.
That cemetery visit held some very special moments for me. Pleasant memories of my mom…along with a renewed appreciation of how fortunate we are to have so many loving and caring nurses in our tougher days. Unexpectedly, it served as a reminder to express my appreciation to all those great nurses around us.
We are encouraged by people who show that they care Who, whenever we’re feeling low, let us know that they’re there
And when health starts to fail and we start to feel worse
What a lift we get from a tender-loving nurse.
Be passionate
“Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
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How did they do that?
Are you intrigued by what goes on behind the scenes at a concert? Sports event? Famous restaurant? Are you curious about what happens behind closed doors on Bay Street? The House of Commons? The Pentagon?
There’s an enticement to peek behind the curtain and get a glimpse into what others don’t get to see. Backstage or all-access passes can become hot commodities because it gives people a sense of meeting someone or seeing things others are kept from.
Investigative news shows and documentaries have given us access to places we know little about. It gives us a sense of being in on previously hidden information. Feeling like we’ve been granted some insider’s knowledge gives us a sense of now being in the know.
In these behind the scenes glimpses, lucky ticket holders get to meet the headliners, or viewers are introduced to a
CEO or VP—someone with a title or job description indicating their closeness to the important information they are revealing. Hundreds of people have a stake in what is happening, yet it is those with important titles that offer up the information. But for me, I’d rather hear from the person who might not have the impressive title, but who has the background to know all that is going on and, just as importantly, what is needed next.
A famous singer shared that she likes to volunteer with the Sunday school at her church. You might expect that she would be running the music program, but no. Her famous name might ensure she would be leading the class but no, she wasn’t teaching either. Instead she helped other parents take children back and forth to the bathroom. It was her way of helping out—contributing to the overall smooth running of the program—each person doing their part.
As a teenager I was helping my dad who was coaching a ball team at a large tournament in a nearby small town. It was a very well-run tournament and before leaving, my dad wanted to thank the organizers for all their work. A volunteer spotted one of the members and remarked he would be a good one to talk to. The man was emptying big garbage bins. A critical
thing behind the scenes of a successful tournament. It needed doing and he ensured it was getting done.
Name any type of event we attend and we are aware that there is what we can see—and so much more that we don’t. Yet what isn’t seen is usually the biggest component of any successful endeavour.
Currently, Outlook’s local theatre group, Equinox Theatre, is bringing a new comedy to the stage. The cast has embraced delightful characters who are very entertaining, but before a single line of dialogue can be delivered on opening night there had to be a group working behind the scenes to build a stage, hang lights, design a set, install set pieces, hang curtains, gather props, plan costumes, set up chairs, sell tickets, serve as ushers, and organize a concession; all in anticipation of welcoming the audience. Then, when the show closes, it is all taken down and put away until it is time for the next production. Dozens of individuals working diligently to ensure every detail is looked after. The work behind the scenes has to happen if anything on stage is going to happen. That takes place again and again in all of the events that can only happen because of the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals who are committed to its success.
Tournaments, fundraisers, concerts, banquets, parades, festivals, and community celebrations happen because someone makes them happen. A whole bunch of ‘someones’ pulling together and drawing on each other’s strengths and abilities to set a goal and achieve it. Because it is those very people who get the job done. They are the movers and shakers, doing what is needed to enhance the opportunities, enjoyment and quality of life for everyone. They offer their time and sweat because they take pride in their involvement and in what it contributes to the community.
Every person who picks up a broom, tool, clipboard, or plunger; hauls chairs, tables or sound equipment; climbs scaffolding, ladders or poles, creates posters, programs or promo materials; pours over rosters, rules and rotations; organizes children, teams or committees; coaches, manages, directs or instructs--you are the ones making that happen.
Do you want to get an insider’s view? Join up with one of these efforts and see what can happen when a group puts a vision in place and their nose to the grindstone. Instead of just a glimpse behind the scenes, it’s a chance to see the big picture fully revealed; and it’s gloriously gratifying. That’s my outlook.
Nelson Mandela
Shelley Luedtke
National Nursing Week is celebrated from May 12 to May 18, 2025. This year’s theme is The Power of Nurses to Transform Health. It’s the perfect time to recognize the invaluable contributions of nurses, especially public health nurses (PHNs). Here’s an overview of their vital role.
AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING PROFESSION
Nursing is a diverse field with various specialties. Many nurses focus on individual patient care, but PHNs operate on a broader scale, working diligently to enhance the health and safety of entire communities.
• They provide education. PHNs play a crucial role in educating communities about health issues, promoting well-being and ensuring individuals have access to necessary care. They work in various settings, including underserved areas like First Nations and remote communities, reaching those who might otherwise have limited access to health care.
• They provide care. Public health nurses deliver essential direct care services to individuals. They administer vaccines and immunizations to protect against preventable diseases, conduct health screenings and perform assessments to identify potential health risks within the population.
• They focus on advocacy. PHNs design and implement health education campaigns to raise awareness about critical health issues, such as mental health, maternal and child health and infectious diseases. Their advocacy efforts play a vital role in shaping a healthier environment for everyone in the community.
This National Nursing Week, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work of public health nurses as they strive to keep communities safe and healthy.
A ‘wild day’ at Redvers Recreation Centre
By Paul Kimball
Rob McCulloch, along with his wife Donna Bayliss, owns a farm north of Carnduff that is home to a wide variety of animals. Some are common enough – sheep, goats and chickens, for instance. But there are others that are a little more ‘exotic’ – mini-donkeys, llamas, rabbits, even peacocks. So, it’s not a total surprise that he would be quite involved with organizing something like a poultry show and auction, working very closely with Tammy Buisse. Tammy is the president of the Redvers Small Animal and Bird Organization and has good connections with the Redvers Recreation Centre, where the show and auction took place on April 26th.
The morning began with a show that featured chickens, turkeys, geese, waterfowl and other such animals. They were
judged by Heather Hayes who came in all the way from BC to award points for tail feathers, bone structure and overall health. Sort of like a dog show without the parading around. Close to 100 entrants were judged, with winners going home with ribbons and coffee cups adorned with the logo of the event coordinator, Saskatchewan Poultry Association (SPA).
The show was followed by an auction. The larger four-footed animals were put on display for bidding led by auctioneer Dennis Seymour, who encouraged the assembled crowd to bid higher and higher to take animals home. One bid went almost as high as $2,000 for a Grey Parrot. Other bids went as high as $800 as buyers were looking for pets, animals for breeding and even meat for their tables.
Most of the crowd was there to bid, but many just came to
look at the animals. For them, it was like going to a petting zoo…without the petting. The bidding raised approximately $44,000 which was a record amount. That went a long way to fund The Redvers Small Animal and Bird Organization. Three thousand dollars was also donated to Stars to help maintain their helicopter ambulance service.
One of the goals of both events was to educate children and create further awareness of farm animals and birds that they typically don’t think about. Children were even encouraged to show their poultry and to glean advice from the judge with regards to what constitutes a healthy bird. Kids went home more informed… Stars was the beneficiary of a nice donation…and breeders and pet-lovers added to their animal entourage.
It was a good day for many people for many reasons.
Bingo helps raise money at Carlyle KidSport fundraiser
By Kaitlynn Nordal
The second annual Carlyle KidSport bingo fundraiser raised $2177.29 to help local children participate in recreational activities.
KidSport is a provincial organization that helps families in need of financial support so their children can participate in sports.
“Carlyle KidSport accepts applications from local families to pay the registration fees for their child to participate in sports in our community. It is the responsibility of the Carlyle KidSport
committee to raise funds to cover the approved applications,” said Shelley Sargent, chairperson for Carlyle KidSport. In 2024, Carlyle KidSport provided $3325 in grants to cover registration fees for local kids to participate in sports. During the same year, the Carlyle KidSport committee also brainstormed ideas for bigger fundraisers rather than doing various small ones. “The idea of doing a bingo came up so we decided to give it a try with having our first Carlyle KidSport Bingo,” said Sargent.
The 2024 bingo was so successful and received such positive feedback that the committee made the decision to make it an annual event.
The second annual Carlyle KidSport Bingo was held on Wednesday, April 16 at the Carlyle Sports Arena with 125 Bingo players. “(It was) great to see so many families and friends come together to play bingo and support Carlyle KidSport,” said Sargent.
The bonanza game started at 6:45 p.m. with regular games starting at 7:00 p.m. There was a total of nine regular bingo games and three additional specialty games played. There were cash prizes handed out for all games.
“Our committee would like to extend a heartfelt
thank you to everyone who attended, making the evening not just fun but meaningful,” said Sargent.
“A special thank you
to all the volunteers that helped make our bingo a success,” continued Sargent. “From setting up, letting us use your equipment, running the bingo, and cleaning up at the end, we appreciate all of the help we received and would not be able to do it on our own.
One can never thank volunteers enough for helping make the event successful.”
All funds raised and donated to Carlyle KidSport stay in Carlyle. So far in 2025, $1200 in grants have already been allocated. Those interested can follow Carlyle KidSport on Facebook (Carlylekidsport) or check the Observer to keep up to date with any events going on and to know when the third annual bingo will take place.
From left to right – Part of Saskatchewan Poultry Association’s team – Treasurer Allison Nielsen, President Rob McCulloch and Secretary Carla Davis backing up their ‘human chicken’ friend. Photo courtesy of Rob McCulloch
People participate in the second annual Carlyle KidSport bingo fundraiser which raised $2177.29 this year. Photo courtesy S. Sargent.
Grow your own protein!
More and more people are eating less meat or adopting a vegetarian diet, a choice that has a positive impact on both their health and the environment. Growing your own plant-based protein helps you eat healthier and reduce your carbon footprint.
Here are a few protein-rich plants you can try growing:
• Broccoli
Kale • Pumpkins (for seeds) • Edamame
Beans
Lentils
Corn
Parsley
Green peas • Quinoa • Sunflowers (for seeds)
Whether you have a large in-ground garden or prefer gardening in pots on your balcony, these plants will provide a tasty, nutritious harvest. Visit your local garden centres, nurseries and other plant and seed retailers to start your journey toward home-grown proteins.
7 golden rules for growing plants in pots
Are you ready to grow plants in pots on your patio or balcony? Try these seven expert tips for growing healthy plants, vegetables, flowers and herbs this summer.
1. Ensure your pots are big enough. Select a pot that’s wide and deep enough to allow your plants’ roots to grow freely. A pot that’s too narrow or shallow can stifle growth.
2. Choose a design that allows drainage. Drill holes in the bottom of your pots or look for styles with built-in drainage. This will prevent you from oversaturating the soil, which can lead to root rot.
3. Use high-quality potting soil. Purchase soil specifically designed for potted plants. It should be lightweight, nutrient-dense and provide excellent water retention.
4. Prune bulky roots. If your plant’s roots become intertwined, carefully trim them in a few places to encourage healthy growth.
5. Water enough. When you water for the first time, ensure the water drains out the holes at the bottom. After that, adjust your watering routine based on the specific needs of your plants.
6. Put them outside at the right time. Don’t rush to take your pots outside. Wait until the risk of frost has passed so you don’t lose the benefits of all your hard work.
7. Add fertilizer. The nutrients in potting soil can deplete quickly. Regularly apply a suitable fertilizer rich in nitrogen and potassium, tailored to the needs of your plants.
Visit your local garden centre to find pots, plants, potting soil and all the equipment you need to grow lush, healthy greenery.
Six-year-old born with congenital heart and lung disease
By Stephanie Zoer
Brooke and Dylan Lawrence are a happily married couple that live in Arcola with two daughters, Phoenix is 10 years old, and Lyrik is six years old.
Although they are happy, they have had their challenges for the past six years.
When Brooke was pregnant with Phoenix the pregnancy was normal, and the delivery went smoothly, and they had a healthy baby girl.
A couple of years later, Brooke became pregnant again and assumed that this pregnancy would be the same, but this was going to change when she went for an ultrasound in December 2018 when she was around seven months pregnant.
Brooke was due to have her second child in February 2019 and needed a routine ultrasound.
“My baby was measuring small and because I am tall, they wanted to make sure everything was okay,” said Brooke.
Brooke was sent for an indepth ultrasound and that is when they told Brooke and Dylan about the problems with the baby.
Things took a turn for the worse when the doctor came into the room. “My world had stopped in its tracks,” said Brooke.
Her baby had a congenital heart condition and lung issues, but while Brooke was pregnant
her body kept her baby girl healthy.
“I could not and did not want to believe what he was telling us,” she said. “What did we do so wrong to deserve this or have our baby go through this.”
They were told that their baby had DORV and VSD. This is a double outlet right ventricle, both of the heart’s outlets, the
pulmonary artery and the aorta exited abnormally from the right ventricle.
This causes the oxygen rich and poor oxygen blood to mix together before leaving the heart. VSD is a hole in the middle of the heart.
Brooke and Dylan travelled to Saskatoon for an echocardiogram – a scan of the heart - to
better assess the condition and how to go forward from there.
On February 5, 2019, Brooke was induced at a Saskatoon hospital, and she knew that when her baby was born, she was going to need open heart surgery soon after her birth.
Baby Lyrik remained in Saskatoon and was given medications for her heart, but this caused problems with her breathing, and a tube was placed to help her breath, and she was airlifted to an Edmonton hospital and at seven days old had her first open heart surgery.
At 10 days old she had another surgery on her heart. Her little chest was left open to accommodate swelling and a few days later, she was stitched up. She returned to Saskatoon and eventually was able to go home when she was a month old.
Lyrik had eight blood transfusions and one antibody transfusion before she left the hospital to go home.
In October 2019, when Lyrik was eight months old, another surgery was scheduled for her lungs.
The doctors called this an easy procedure, and it was going to take four hours, but it did not go as planned. The cardiologists went up through Lyrik’s thigh and took several photos that showed the lung was narrower than they expected so there was nothing they could do at the time.
Today Lyrik is six years old and in kindergarten. She loves dancing and tries to be a regular kid.
Lyrik is once again looking at surgery and this will be her fourth. This one is for her lungs and the narrow artery that goes to her heart.
The surgery will take place in Edmonton as the doctors in Saskatoon do not feel qualified if any complications were to happen.
Brooke said Lyrik is always sick, she has a cold, gets the flu, has a cough and it just keeps going and then turns into an upper respiratory infection.
Tanya Pongracz is Lyrik’s grandma and is the manager at the Arcola Gas Station and Convenience Store.
She wants to help her daughter and family and is holding a raffle draw to help raise funds to offset expenses for the couple when they travel to Edmonton.
An account has been set up in Lyrik Lawrence’s name at the Arcola Credit Union for those who wish to donate.
There will be more fundraising coming in the future.
“I just want to help as much as I can,” said Tanya. “The expenses will be high, and we do not know how long she will be there.”
The surgery date has not yet been finalized but they expect it to be within the next couple of months.
Stoughton Co-op members will bene t from a successful year
By Stephanie Zoer
Around 32 people enjoyed a roast beef supper prepared and served by the Stoughton Royal Ca-
Lainton
Nominees must meet thequalifications andrequirementsspecified in the Co-op'sBylaws. Detailsonthe qualifications andrequirementscan be picked up at theAdministrationOffice
Nominationsmustbesubmitted in writing, no laterthan 5:00pmMondayMay 12, 2025
To theNominatingCommittee Southern Plains Co-operative Ltd. AdminOffice. 313 Kensington Ave. PO Box904, Estevan, Sk.S4A 2A7
Questionscan be directed to theNominatingCommittee: Marcia Greenwood –306-482-7288LynnHewitt– 306-577-9590 LindaThauberger-Smith– 306-529-4438
nadian Legion Branch on April 23 for the Stoughton Co-operative General Meeting (AGM).
After the meal, the crowd grew, and Stough-
ton Co-operative General Manager Deric Reaney welcomed everyone to the evening and introduced special guests. Special guests included Stoughton Mayor Stefan Clark, Reeve of the R.M. of Tecumseh Christy Goudy, Arcola Co-operative General Manager Matthew Almey, Southern Plains Co-operative General Manager Brian Enns, Robert Grimsrud from Federated Co-operative Limited and Stephanie Zoer, reporter for The Observer. This was the 85th annual meeting of the AGM and Reaney was glad to speak on the exciting things happening at the stores.
From left to right, Brooke Lawrence enjoys watching her six-year-old daughter Lyrik Lawrence dance. Photo courtesy of Brooke Lawrence
Renea Van De Woestyne, left, received a silver bracelet from Deric Reaney for her 10 years at Stoughton Cooperative. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Tanya Dubois, left, received her level one training certicate as a director from Stoughton Co-operative General Manager Deric Reaney. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
A ‘Tiger’ on the loose at Redvers Sportsman Dinner
By Paul Kimball
The annual Sportsman Dinner at the Redvers Recreation Centre took place with hardly a hitch on April 19th. But that definitely was not the case for Redvers’ Recreation Director Nadine Pryde as she was planning the event. She had a guest speaker lined up but that fell through as the date approached. She reached out to former NHLer Marty McSorley, who had been a guest speaker back in 2023, for suggestions as to who she could call on short notice. She was told Bryan Trottier, who has been named as one of the top 100 players from the first 100
years of the NHL, would be available to speak. Nadine was thrilled, to say the least. But much to her dismay, Bryan had to back out, almost at the last minute, due to a family matter. Now what?
It turned out that a local resident, Garth Mann, had invited his cousin to attend the dinner –Dave ‘Tiger’ Williams. Tiger had spoken at the dinner once before, the second year that it was held. Trottier suggested that, since Williams was going to be there, maybe he could entertain the crowd with some of his stories. Trottier asked Williams…Williams said ‘yes’ and the dinner was a go. Williams’ name will
never be found on a list of the NHL’s greatest players, but he is at the top of one list – the most penalized players. His 3971 penalty minutes is 406 minutes – almost seven hours - ahead of Dale Hunter, who sits in the second position.
The Sportsman Dinner opened with…what else…a dinner. Following that, two local hockey teams were acknowledged for outstanding achievements. The Redvers Senior Rockets and the Redvers U-15 Rockets were both double banner winners, winning league and provincial titles. As well, hockey player Naton Miller was recognized as the latest inductee onto Redvers’ Wall of Fame. More about that will be found in an upcoming issue of the Observer
Then auctioneer Dellan Mohrbutter took the stage. He auctioned off item after item, including caps from the 16 NHL hockey teams that made this year’s playoffs. The winning bidders of those caps are now entered into a Hat Calcutta. The owner of the Stanley Cup-winning team will take home 25% of the pool that was created by the purchases of the caps.
The crowd was in a spending mood. Many items raised a lot of money, including jerseys signed by Trottier and Williams.
Finally, the highlight
of the evening arrived. For about 90 minutes, broken up by an intermission, Williams told stories of his 14 years in the NHL. How he chose the NHL Toronto Maple Leafs’ offer over that of the WHA’s Cincinnati Stingers because his dad wanted to watch him play on TV on Saturday nights. How King Clancy told Tiger to stay in his role as an enforcer because “if you’re a crusher, don’t try to be a rusher, because you’ll
end up an usher”. How, when he was playing for the Maple Leafs, he was annoyed that his many fines to the NHL came out of his paycheque. He approached Harold Ballard, the team owner and told him to pay the fines or he’d quit. Ballard couldn’t pay Willams’ fines, of course, but in the off-season, Tiger received a cheque for ‘services rendered’ that, coincidentally, equaled the total of the fines.
The way he told these
and other stories kept the audience well-entertained. As if Tiger’s stories weren’t enough, former NHL draft pick Kelly Greenback joined Tiger onstage to add stories of his own about Tiger. It was a very enjoyable evening. For an event that had so many snags in the planning, it ended up so well. Nadine has already taken a big step planning for next year –Bryan Trottier gave her a rain cheque and will be the special guest in 2026.
202-2nd
Tiger Williams entertaining the crowd with one of his many stories. Photo by Paul Kimball
Garth Mann, the proud owner of his cousin’s jersey. Photo by Paul Kimball
Above left photo: Redvers Recreation Director Nadine Pryde addressing the crowd at the event she worked so hard to make possible. Photo by Paul Kimball
Above right photo:
Auctioneer Dellan Mohrbutter encouraging the generous bidders to be even more generous. Photo by Paul Kimball
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Stoughton Co-op holds AGM
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Helmuth said they gained 62 new members and lost 19 members throughout 2024.
Stoughton Co-operatives offer scholarships to local students and feels that Stoughton is one of the best Co-operatives around.
Fall Leadership Conference in British Columbia and this past March she went to the AGM Convention in Saskatoon.
During this time Dubois has taken her Level 1 in director training and is already halfway through Level 2.
Although there are no major renovations happening in 2025, in 2024 the C-Store saw 14 feet added to their location, the grocery store expanded the bakery and now serves hot chickens, and the lumber store began offering prebuilt sheds. On June 26, 2024, all Co-operative stores were under a cyber-attack, which shut down all the systems across the province.
They have had an increase in sales which makes the stores successful, but it also brings a greater return to the members.
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Head office was quick to deal with this attack, but it still took six weeks to repair and get the system running smoothly again. Everyone was pleased with how this was handled in a timely manner.
Elwyn Helmuth chaired the meeting and spoke on behalf of President Ed Young.
A percentage is returned to members which can vary on products purchased.
The tariffs have caused some uncertainties, but they are doing their best to keep prices in check.
The stores already have Canadian made products but now they are focusing more on Canadian and local companies to fill their stores.
Tanya Dubois, one of the directors and secretary, read the minutes from last year’s meeting and reported on her meetings that she attended throughout the year.
Dubois went to the District 3 meeting in June, held in Assiniboia, and also attended the
Reaney awarded Josie Coderre with five years of dedication to the store, while Renea Van De Woestyne received her 10 years of dedication. Dubois also received a certificate for her Level 1. Then it was time to vote, as two director positions were available.
Kirscen Rulloda, Ed Young, Gerald Knibbs and Cheryl Lake all stood for the position of director.
Rulloda was new to running and is the Stoughton recreation director and Cheryl Lake was also new. She runs her own esthetician business, is the district leader for the Girl Guides, but it was former directors Ed Young and Gerald Knibbs who claimed the spots.
This concluded the 2025 Stoughton Co-operative AGM meeting.
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SCORPIO
Expand your customerbase and grow your social media contacts to boost your sales. You’ll takethe lead in organizing a meeting that will bring together people youadmireand respect.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll takethe initiativeona major personal or professional project. You’ll find the financial resourcesyou need to purchaseproperty or start your ownbusiness.
CAPRICORN
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PISCES
At work,your go-getter attitude and keen attention to detail will help youcome up with practical solutions to unexpected challenges. Conversations with your romantic partner may revolvearound commitment and the depth of your feelings
PUZZLE NO. 286
PUZZLE NO. 1013