The Observer November 20, 2025 by Carlyle Observer

Mrs. Claus’ Tinsel, Joys & Toys Night

Submitted by Nicole

Currie

The third annual Mrs. Claus Night was held on Thursday, November 13th on Main Street Carlyle from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This was a night for our Main Street businesses to have their Customer Appreciation Night and/or Christmas Open House. We have amazing businesses in our community that support all events and organizations, not only in Carlyle, but also in surrounding communities. It was a great night for us to showcase what they have to oﬀer and show them our support.

This was a free night for all to join, and it was just on Main Street so that it was walkable for everyone. Each participating business had a BINGO card for people to pick up. You had to go into each business to get a stamp and then drop your blackout card oﬀ at the table located on Main Street, with the RCMP, Santa, and Mrs. Claus. Your blackout card got you in to win gift bags which have gift certiﬁcates and Mrs. Claus cash in them. The Mrs. Claus cash was used as regular money when making a purchase from the participating businesses.

On this night, the RCMP ﬁlled their cruiser with new toys that will be delivered to families who are needing an extra hand this holiday and their children would otherwise not receive a gift. These toys are delivered

through Toys From Santa to families in and around our community. We had a beautiful night, and we were incredibly lucky to have Santa join us! He knows how

important these events are for our community and for these children this holiday season. He made so many cute, little faces light up when they saw him! Thank you, Santa,

for making the time to come to spend the evening with us! Thank you to everyone who came out and supported the businesses, and the toy drive. It was wonderful to see so

many smiling, caring and generous faces. This night happens on the second Thursday of November. We look forward to seeing everyone out again next year!

Left to right, Joan Bue, Shannon Klatt and Santa.

Community Calendar

Your rst stop to nd events happening in our community!

November

Sat, Nov 22 - Rory Allen- Arcola

December

Fri & Sat, Dec 5 & 6 – Carlyle Dickens Festival

Fri & Sat, Dec 5 & 6 – Cornerstone Theatre

Fri. & Sat., Dec 5 & 6 – High Tea – United Church Sun, Dec 7 – Sunday Matinee Cornerstone Theatre

Fri, Dec 26 – Boxing Day Bonspiel – Carlyle 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.

Arcola Remembrance Day draws large crowd

By Stephanie Zoer

Arcola Remembrance was hosted at the Mac Murray Theatre in Arcola on November 11.

prior to the laying of the wreaths in front of a large crowd of 150 people.

The highlight of the ceremony was special guest Russ Paton, formerly of Arcola, but now residing in Millerville, Alberta, Russ and his wife Terri travelled to the service to give a presentation entitled “Never, Never, Never.”

Staﬀ Sargeant Alex Hutt from the Carlyle RCMP Detachment led in the colour party, with Connor Johnston and Rhett Wheeler manning the ﬂags to start the ceremony. This was followed by Colleen Heitenen reciting a prayer provided by Father Chris of the Carlyle Catholic Parish.

Albert’s unit spent time in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp immediately after its liberation. The atrocities observed there stuck with Albert his entire life, though he never could talk about it.

The couple recently returned from a trip to Europe, where they followed in the footsteps of Terri’s father-in-law Albert Allsop, who was in the 39th Reconnaissance Wing of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Legion member Rick Kriebel read out the names for the Roll of Honour. This included 41 names for WWI and 29 names for WWII from Arcola, Willmar, and area, Kisbey and Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation. They reiterated the old adage that, “you die twice, once in battle, and once when nobody remembers your name.” The Roll of Honour is read so no one will ever forget their names.

According to Russ, the remainder of Albert’s war time was spent in Germany. Albert’s unit was six kilometres from were the German Army surrendered on May 4, 1945. Field Marshall Montgomery and Prime Minister Winston Churchill passed through their airﬁeld on the way to negotiate the surrender.

and

Scott said that the subject matter of the presentation was emotionally heavy, and an interesting part of Russ and Terri’s journey. While Russ was in England, he was able to ﬂy a WWII Spitﬁre, even taking the controls as he is a licensed pilot. It was the highlight of Russ’s trip.

and he could never talk about what he went through.

of an Unknown Soldier or their own local monument.

Judy Naylen and Briar Burton each read a poem, and then a moment of silence was observed

This journey took them from southern England onto the Normandy beaches, through France, Belgium, the Netherlands and deep into what was once Nazi Germany. Russ recounted stories of Albert, such as when Albert was strapped in a fuel tank truck and made to drive it ashore in Normandy, while the water reached his chest.

Russ added that “Albert’s life was worth less than a tank of fuel.”

The Arcola ceremony concluded with a reminder that poppies are to be worn from the last Friday in October until November 11 and then removed and placed on the Tomb

A WWII Canadian Army helmet had been placed at the Arcola cenotaph and many of the guests from the service made their way to the cenotaph to deposit their poppies and pay their respect.

Russ Paton, left, and his British pilot (unknown name) ew in their spit re over the Isle of Wight in southern England.

Photo courtesy of Scott Paton

Albert Allsop spent time in a German concentration camp

the atrocities observed stuck with him,

Photo courtesy of Scott Paton

Remembrance Day in Carlyle was well attended

By Doug Waldner

On November 11, the Carlyle Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion held the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Members of the legion were very pleased with the attendance from the community. It is clear that Carlyle and the surrounding area is very supportive of our veterans and have taken to heart the preservation of the memory of those who sacrificed so much.

Comrade Doug Waldner served as the MC for the ceremony and Comrade John Voutour was the Sargent at Arms. The Remembrance Day ceremony was very similar to other years. Ceremonies such as the formal “Marching in of the Colours” are observed as is the singing of “O Canada”. That was followed by the entire purpose of the

ceremony, “The Last Post”, two minutes of silence honouring and remembering the sacrifices made by our service personnel, “Reveille”, the reading of the honour roll of those from our community who were lost in battle and the “Act of Remembrance”. This essential purpose, that of honouring and remembrance, will be always included in Remembrance Day.

The Colour Party consisted of RCMP Constables Handley, and Duke, Comrades Rick Burnett, Jack Wilson, Mike Makelki, Clareen Makelki, Dianne Twietmeyer and Marion Biram. Members of the Bow Valley Air Cadets, Cadets Jessica Cooper, Ryan Cooper and Lexi Wainman also participated by greeting members of the public when they arrived, handing out bulletins and accompanying those who laid wreaths.

Wreaths were laid commemorating those lost in wars, in memorial of comrades no longer with us, and to show respect from local governments and groups. Greetings from Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Scott Moe were read.

Comrade Craig Bird of Estevan was the guest speaker and he spoke eloquently of his travels while researching and documenting those killed during war time from Southeast Saskatchewan. After the ceremony, Comrade Bird presented the Carlyle legion with a book that he prepared titled, “Carlyle’s Honoured Dead, From the Great War to Afghanistan”. This is a wonderful asset and addition to the information that we already have and we thank Comrade Bird for his efforts in this.

The choir led by Comrade Wendy

Rounce sang “Lest We Forget”, composed by Dianne Twietmeyer. Pastor Rodney Cox read a scripture, led us in prayer and offered a benediction. Jesse Twietmeyer served as bugler playing “The Last Post” and “Reveille”, as he has for many years.

After the Marching out of the Colours and the singing of “God Save the King” the ceremony was moved to the Carlyle cenotaph where three wreaths were laid, one for the veterans of World War I and World War II, one for all veterans who returned from war, and one for UN/NATO members, Korea veterans and Afghanistan veterans.

The Carlyle legion would like to thank all participants and all those who attended this very important ceremony of Remembrance.

Carnduff remembers…outdoors at the town’s cenotaph

By Paul Kimball

For years, Carnduff’s Legion was home for those who chose to take the time to remember on November 11th. But in 2020, that changed.

Due to all the COVID restrictions, people were not allowed to gather as they had been accustomed to. Even though COVID limitations restricted some of the freedoms that we knew, it was felt that it was vitally important to remember the overall freedom that our country has known for so many years.

As a result, the place to remember changed. Rather than meeting at the Legion, people met at the town’s cenotaph –outdoors.

Certainly the ‘uncontrolled outdoor weather’ was not as conducive as the Legion’s ‘controlled indoor weather’, but it

didn’t stop many from attending that ceremony.

The Remembrance Day observance has stayed outdoors ever since. Some years, the weather has been acceptable…other years, not. But it was felt that if those who served could do so in any type of weather, couldn’t a 20-30-minute service be held in any kind of weather?

This year, the weather was decent. Many gathered to observe two minutes of silent reflection, to hear the names of those from Carnduff, Carievale and Gainsborough who served in the wars, to lay wreaths and generally take in the usual aspects of remembering.

Once the ceremony was completed, most of the crowd worked their way back to the Legion. The time began with people visiting with one another as they enjoyed

coffee, donuts and popcorn. Then a short program took place, with Henry Friesen and his daughter, Astrid, kicking things off by singing In Flanders Field. That was followed by a short message of thanks from Ron Hellier, one of the several American Legion members who had come up for the occasion from Sherwood, North Dakota. Then three local students – Katelyn Miller, Aubrie May Blowatt and Everly Steeves – read essays that they had written. A fourth student – Sara Redpath –was unable to attend. Her poem was read by Katelyn Miller.

Once the program came to an end, a lunch consisting of roast beef on a bun and beans was enjoyed.

Carnduff recognizes the need to remember that sacrifices that men and women have made to give us our freedoms… even when events like COVID come along and

put a dent in those freedoms. Often, those dents can make the remembrance of our freedoms more meaningful.

Silver Cross Mother Sandra Robertson about to lay a wreath, accompanied by Captain Greg Swallow of the Cadets. Photo by Paul Kimball

Laying of the wreaths at the Carlyle Cenotaph.

Views

Addiction can happen to anyone

Stephanie Zoer

Just a few words

Addiction is not a word that should be spoken lightly, as it can happen to anyone. If you think you will never get addicted to something, maybe you should think again. It can happen in the blink of an eye.

Nobody wakes up in the morning and decides that today they are going to get addicted to something. This can be the overwhelming aspect of buying shoes. Having hundreds of pairs just because you need to have them. It is still an addiction if you cannot say no to it.

When people think of addiction it is drugs and alcohol that they think of, and it is the worst kind. This kind of addiction sucks one in before they even realize that they are hooked.

I never intended to become an alcoholic, but I was for years. It happened before I even realized that I was, and today I can proudly say that I have not had a drink in eight thousand, seven hundred and seventy-seven days, but who is counting.

One morning in January years ago, I got up and did not like who I saw in the mirror and quit. Was it easy? Not at all, but it was worth it as I found the person I was before I took that dreaded drink that made me an alcoholic.

It really bothers me when people say, “Look at that drunk,” as that drunk who has a problem is someone’s husband, wife, daughter, son, sister, or brother. It is not an easy road to go down. And they never planned to have that addiction take over their life, and it does take over your life.

So how does a person become sober or stop drugs? It is an amazing support team. My husband and kids were my number one support along with my mom. I probably talked to my mom the most when I had struggles. She was a kind and understanding person and never did she judge me for going down the road I did.

I did not go to AA, but for some people this is better for them, but for me my support team worked. Do I judge people for drinking? Not at all, it is their choice. But when do you know that you are going over to the other side of alcoholism? When, you cannot go a day without drinking.

There is no shame in admitting that a person has a problem. There is also no shame in falling oﬀ the wagon but get right back on it. We all have struggles and it takes time and is a day-to-day battle.

Do not look at next week or next month, work on today and if you get through that day being sober, then it is a good day. The next day is a new day, and it is the same thing all over again, getting through that day without a drink.

If you feel that you might struggle, call your support person and let them know. I called my mom many times when my husband was at work, thinking I might fail, and she always listened and this always got me through.

I can honestly say that I feel stronger mentally than I have in years. I still have struggles and sadly I cannot call my mom, but my husband is always here for me.

Saskatchewan has one of the highest rates of alcoholism and drunk driving than any other province. We need to get this number down. We need to be there for each other, without judgment. Be that person who someone can depend on for a support person, to help someone who is trying their best to get clean. I am always willing to listen if you need help.

“I had no epiphany, no singular revelation, no moment of truth, but a steady accumulation of a thousand slights, a thousand indignities and a thousand unremembered moments produced in me an anger, a rebelliousness, a desire to fight the system that imprisoned my people. There was no particular day on which I said, Henceforth I will devote myself to the liberation of my people; instead, I simply found myself doing so, and could not do otherwise.”

- Nelson Mandela

Back in the Day

This home was built in 1903 by Carlyle’s rst doctor. Doctor Hardy moved here from Cannington Manor. The house was torn down in 1970. The front door was saved by Mrs. M. Winteringham and donated to the Carlyle Rusty Relics Museum.

Don’t wait…say it today

Last week my inbox contained the most delightful and greatly appreciated email. It came from someone I didn’t know, but a man who took the time to comment on a column I had written in 2022 which he recently came across again. I am so grateful he went to the eﬀort to send me a message because it absolutely made my day. It also made me think about the times I have intended to do the same for someone else, but then got sidetracked and failed to get back to my intention. Not always, but I’m afraid too often.

In the last couple of months I have attended the funerals of two people who I considered mentors and who impacted my life in truly meaningful ways. One was a 99-year old woman named Helen who played an important role in my life from pretty much the day I began living in Outlook. She was

such a source of encouragement and inspiration to me. I deeply appreciated the time she took to talk and share and I always left feeling uplifted. What she said—she meant, so if you received encouraging words you knew they were sincere. The fact that she took the time to speak to you directly, or send a lovely note is something to be cherished. As we gathered for her service I had so many stories that came to mind and so many memories to cherish. For everything she meant to me, the best expression of gratitude I could come up with was to simply say ‘thank you.’

The other was the passing of an absolute community champion in a role model named John. The leadership, dedication and vision he brought to so many committees, organizations and events shaped them—and as a result—the history of this town. So much of this community has John’s ﬁngerprints on it, and we are all the better for it. Among the many things that stand out for me is his care of people and the earnestness he brought to each interaction. Everything was purposeful. I am so grateful I got the chance to know him and I appreciate so much the interest he took in what I might be doing. He took

the time to send a text or stop in and have a conversation about something I had written or been involved in and that meant so much to me. So much!

I hope these amazing individuals knew the extent of what I learned from them and how greatly I respected them. Did I tell them?

When we have a compliment to share or words to encourage, we shouldn’t wait. We can’t wait. It may be exactly what someone needs in that moment. It might also be exactly what we need as well.

A professor of neuroscience studied how compliments aﬀected the one giving them out. He found paying a compliment increases personal well-being. It also makes us more grateful because we are looking for the good around us. Thirdly, it strengthens our interpersonal relationships as it builds connection and makes us more aware of the needs of others. It also makes us more resilient to stress and improves physical health. Research shows the amount of positive versus negative emotions people express is a surprisingly big predictor of health. Finally, giving a compliment creates ripples of hopefulness, enthusiasm and joy. All that from something that is free and easy to do.

But of course it shouldn’t be about ourselves—but about those we wish to acknowledge. I love selecting and purchasing cards. A dream job for me would have been working in the greeting card division of Hallmark. Seriously, I love cards and have a storage tub full of all kinds for pretty much any occasion you can imagine. But they do little good sitting in storage in my ofﬁce closet.

A number of years ago I pledged to send one card a week to someone ‘just because’. I loved it. I can honestly say the experience corroborated the neuroscientist’s research. I didn’t follow through every single week but when I did, it felt so good just to let people know how much I appreciated them. But it doesn’t need to be cards. A phone call, text or visit is a great way to express gratitude and admiration. It will have an impact—no question. I have profound appreciation for these mentors in my life for their guidance and example of excellence, and especially for investing the time they did to pour into my life. They didn’t let the moment pass them by. In honor of them, I am going to ensure I don’t wait until tomorrow to say what should be spoken and heard today. That’s my outlook.

Paying respect and gratitude on Remembrance Day in Stoughton

By Stephanie Zoer

With a chilly breeze, but the sun shining down, people gathered outside the Stoughton Royal Canadian Legion Branch at the cenotaph. This was a time to pay respect to those who lost their lives during the wars.

On November 11 each year, a parade of veterans and others line the sidewalk with wreaths in hand to be placed at the cenotaph. The ceremony began with the singing of the national anthem, followed by the Last Post.

Ray Coderre, a lifetime member of the Stoughton Legion, stood by the Canadian ﬂag and lowered it to half mass, as the crowd fell silent for two minutes to honour and remember. As the bugle played the ﬂag was slowly raised to the top.

Each person who was laying a wreath was escorted to the cenotaph by a Stoughton Girl Guide or leader. When they ap-

proached the cenotaph the Girl Guide handed the wreath to the presenter. When the wreath was laid, they each showed their respect.

Everyone returned to the warmth of the legion and Pastor Zach Sloane made the call to worship. He did the prayer of invocation, which was

followed by the singing of “When Peace Like a River.”

Ann Philips from the Stoughton United Church did the scripture read-

ing. From the Stoughton Catholic Church, Brad Phillips had the responsive prayer. Pastor Sloane asked to crowd to join him in the Lord’s Prayer.

Sloane welcomed everyone and he said that he was honoured to be a part of this ceremony. Last year Sloane and his family had just moved to the area when he became the pastor for the Apostolic Church. He had been in Stoughton a month and did the service for the Remembrance Day service last year.

Sloane explained the story of the sick man who could not get to Jesus. This man had four friends that carried him to the temple where Jesus was, but the temple was already full of people, and they could not reach Jesus with their friend. So, they climbed the walls and made sure to get the sick man to Jesus.

His point was that we need to be that friend to

Supervisor hired for Estevan’s new MRI unit

of SaskToday

for the new MRI

Estevan Jasmine Shaver has been hired as the MRI tech

working supervisor, meaning she’ll be in charge of the service. She brings experience with MRI scanners to the role, as she started in 2012 at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon and then shifted to St. Paul’s Hospital, also in Saskatoon, for another ﬁve years. She also worked casually at the V eterinary College, performing scans on animals.

Shaver eventually moved to southeast Saskatchewan so that her husband could be closer to his family, and commuted to work at the MRI site in Moose Jaw. She’s glad to be at St. Joe’s and working closer to home.

This will be her ﬁrst opportunity for a leadership role, as she didn’t have seniority previously.

“This is really nice. I enjoy planning and looking into things more in depth, so it was interesting to look into the schematics and all of the things that I’ve seen

help others. Others have sacriﬁced their lives so that we can be free. We must always remember this and be ready to help others in need.

Pat Slater, the ﬁre chief of the Stoughton Tecumseh department came forward and read the names of all the men and women that did not return from war or that have passed since then. Slater called oﬀ over 300 names that should never be forgotten. How Great Thou Art was the song that followed with the closing of the benediction and God Save the King.

Everyone was invited to stay after the ceremony for a luncheon provided by the legion. The legion was full of people who remained from the service to talk with fellow neighbours or to share a story of the past. As everyone slowly departed and went on with their day, we will remember them.

along the way at diﬀerent sites that may not be ideal. And then giving my feedback on this is nice and interesting,” she told SaskToday.

Shaver is also looking forward to working with a unit that will be the ﬁrst of its kind in Canada

She believes staﬀ recruitment has been progressing well. One person is wrapping up her training. Two other people have been lined up and will be ready for when the MRI unit begins operations.

People she has talked to are excited to have MRI services coming to Estevan, so they won’t have to travel to Regina.

Shaver joined St. Joseph’s Hospital executive director Candace Kopec to discuss the MRI project at the Estevan Chamber of Commerce’s Coﬀee Talk on Nov. 5. The meeting was a chance to introduce herself to the business community and other leaders.

Ray Coderre, a lifelong member of the Stoughton Royal Canadian Legion Branch pulled the ag to half mass during the two minutes of silence at the Stoughton Cenotaph. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Courtesy

The staﬀ is taking shape

scanner that will be at St. Joseph’s Hospital in

Jasmine

Redvers School students honour veterans

By Paul Kimball

Redvers School has a ‘population’ of about 300 K-12 students and staff. On November 6th, they all took close to 45 minutes of their school day to take the time to remember those who made great sacrifices to protect the freedoms that our country enjoys.

Sherry Stewart, the classroom complexities teacher led the service and the students did just about everything else. Several students laid wreaths. The Grade 11 & 12 band provided the music for O Canada, God Save the King and Gone but Not Forgotten. Quentin Cop, Clara Bonotti and Logan Quenneville were the flag-bearers. Dane Campbell and Carter

Hildebrandt played Last Post and Reveille, bookending the two-minute silence. Jake Hildebrandt and Brayleigh

George presented the Act of Remembrance Towards the end of the ceremony, several student classes took part.

The Grade 1 class sang Memories and the Grade 5 class recited The Red Poppy. Four students –Kaycee Demas, Nazryn Sabino, Elsie McIntyre and Ace Pilapil – sang Bridge Over Troubled Waters, accompanied by Mr. Kerr on the keyboard. As the time came for Kaycee to sing her part, she discovered that her mic wasn’t working properly, but keeping her cool and without skipping a beat, she traded mics with Elsie and kept the song flowing perfectly. Following that song, the four sang The Night We Met, with Nazryn playing her guitar. Before God Save the King was played and the flag-bearers left, the Grade 12 class recited In Flanders Field in unison. It was encouraging

to see Redvers School putting the time and hard work into keeping the sacrifices of the past alive. The staff and

students are to be commended for remembering and honouring our veterans in such an exemplary way.

Carlyle Curling Club well supported with donations

Chelsea Brock and Jo-Anne Cushon (member council representatives for Affinity Credit Union), April Taylor (Affinity Credit Union), Jadean Spencer (Affinity Credit Union), Chaelynn Boutin (board member), John Brownlee (Town counselor), Robin Brown (Board member), Duncan Brown (Lions Member). Back row Jack Wilson (RM of Moose Mountain counselor & Bear Claw Community Development member).

The Carlyle Curling Club want to express our sincere gratitude to the Affinity Credit Union, the Town of Carlyle, the RM of Moose Mountain No. 63, the Bear Claw Community Development Corporation and the Carlyle Lions for their support to our curling club. We received the Community Development Funding from Affinity Credit Union, the Capital Recreation & Culture Funding from the Town of Carlyle and the RM of Moose Mountain No. 63, and the Funding Towards New Projects grant from the Bear Claw Community Development Corporation. We also received a donation from the Carlyle Lions for volunteering to help the Lions with the ice for an upcoming bonspiel next weekend. The Carlyle Curling Club has appreciated the opportunity to be able apply for grants and to work together with other organizations. This funding and support allow our club to be able to make important upgrades to the curling rink and buy new equipment to help maintain the ice more efficiently. Through the three grants and the donation we were able to purchase a brand-new scraper!! The board members have already noticed a huge difference preparing the ice for this curling season. Thank you again to everyone for their support!! It is greatly appreciated from our board and club members!!

The Grade 5 class reciting The Red Poppy. Photo by Paul Kimball

Carter Hildebrandt, left, and Dane Campbell playing Reveille following two minutes of silence. Photo by Paul Kimball

(From left to right) Nazryn Sabino, Kaycee Demas, Elsie McIntyre and Ace Pilapil singing Bridge Over Troubled Waters. Photo by Paul Kimball

The Little Friends Sunshine Centre is good for kids…and moms

By Paul Kimball

It was 2022…and people were still suffering the effects of the COVID restrictions. Among those was Joey Henrion, a stayat-home mother of three young boys. She was experiencing ‘cabin fever’ and knew that many others were as well. She decided to do something about it. She was aware of two things – many moms were feeling the same way…and children love to play.

She put those two things together and came up with an idea to create a welcoming space called The Little Friends Sunshine Centre (TLFSC). She booked the Dean Fraser Community Centre in Carnduff on Tues-

days for a couple of hours from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. She invited whoever wanted to drop by.

There was enough interest that she decided to keep it going. Since then, every Tuesday from October to June, parents are welcome to drop by with their kids.

Not too long after starting TLFSC, Henrion went back to work, teaching kindergarten. However, she continued to see the value of the Tuesday gatherings, so she has made it a priority to make sure that they continue to happen.

It is free. All costs are covered by what comes in as a result of periodic fundraisers. Children play with other kids, exercising their playful

Are you inspired by the bold and determined businesswomen in your area? In addition to uplifting the local economy, they act as role models for young girls who are thinking about their professional futures. Here are a few reasons why joining a professional business network can help women propel their careers forward.

HELPFUL SERVICES

Women entering the business world face many obstacles and challenges. For example, they must wear many hats and

imaginations with toys and activities that might not be found at home. Moms enjoy the coffee provided by the coffee machine while lounging on comfortable couches.

One never knows what to expect. Some weeks, there have been as few as two attending…other weeks, as many as 20 show up. But there is always someone there for kids to play with and moms to chat with.

So…feeling the ‘Tuesday blues? Looking for a way to help your kids expend some energy? Looking for a couple of hours of social interaction? The Little Friends Sunshine Centre just might be what the doctor ordered.

tackle unfamiliar tasks like writing a business plan, applying for financing, acquiring certifications and so much more. Fortunately, businesswomen’s networks offer services such as conferences, training seminars and oneonone mentoring to help women start their own business or take their business to the next level — and build their confidence along the way.

REWARDING ENCOUNTERS

Being a member of a businesswomen’s network lets you meet new

people from various backgrounds. Virtual and facetoface networking events bring together women who have similar interests and who might never have met otherwise. These exchanges often lead to fruitful collaborations and longterm partnerships.

Finally, businesswomen’s networks are a way to combat isolation, pass on knowledge, obtain support and build friendships. Are you a businesswoman or thinking of becoming one? Whatever your career plans, joining a professional network will help you achieve your goals.

Mom Jenna Fossum, with her boys Reid (Batman) and Campbell, along with another mom. Mackenzie Carley and her son Teddy. Jenna has been going to the Centre for about a year…this was Mackenzie’s first time. Photo by Paul Kimball

Raising the curtains in Oxbow

By Paul Kimball

Brad Mayer is president of the Oxbow Arts & Cultural Committee (OACC). He is also a member of The Leftovers As a musician, he knows the value of acoustics.

They were not good at the Oxbow Memorial Hall.

He raised his concerns at an OACC meeting. The committee was aware that the hall was being bypassed as a venue due to the acoustical issues. They were interested in seeing that changed.

As a result, the OACC met with Oxbow’s Rec Board late last year to talk about how that problem could be resolved. It was determined that acoustic

curtains would go a long way to improving the sound issues. Beginning this past March, curtains were hung on three of the hall’s walls. The project

By Stephanie Zoer

The Kisbey Recreation Centre was the place that the Kisbey Royal Canadian Legion Branch held their Remembrance Day service. As the service began Nora Weightman, secretary/treasurer for the legion, welcomed everyone to the ceremony.

Beginning with the presentation of colours, everyone stood and sang the national anthem. Dave Bennett played the bugle, and the two minutes of silence took place. A prayer was said by Weightman, and a scripture reading was done by Wendy Gordon. Weightman reminded everyone of the sacrifice that the men and women gave who went to war. Many of

was completed in July. With the task finished, the big question was how to attract people to use the hall again. It was decided that the best way was to

stage a concert. The Leftovers and The Ugly Strippers were asked to play… and they both agreed.

The date was set – November 8th. The event was

given a name – Raise the Curtains. Because of the hall’s reputation as being a sub-par musical venue, the OACC and the Rec Board weren’t sure what

to expect. But people snatched up the tickets and, come showtime, over 200 were in attendance.

Although many assumed it was a fundraiser for the hall, it wasn’t. It was strictly a ‘show and tell’ to showcase the significant difference that curtains could make…and that the hall was now a very suitable place to hold an event.

The evening with the two bands (and a beer garden) was a great success. The OACC and Rec Board are now hoping that the curtains have been raised for people to consider using the hall for their future events – weddings, funerals, parties, dances, concerts…just to name a few.

Royal Canadian Legion had many people involved in the

them did not return and if they did, struggled with the memories of what they went through.

Once the guns fell silent after five years of war, 628,726 Canadians had served in these wars. During this time 66,573 did not return home and 175,000 were wounded. Today, over 2.3 million Canadian Forces have served to keep peace and our freedom throughout the world.

Everyday we have services where people dedicate their lives to saving others, through the police force, doctors, nurses, EMS, and fire departments. These people also need to be remembered as doing their part during difficult times.

The roll of honour was read by Weightman, saying off 34 names for WWI and WWII.

At the ceremony, six wreaths were laid: for the Government of Saskatchewan Zone Commander Craig Bird, Village of Kisbey Mayor Elisa Jackson, R.M. of Brock Councilor Doug Wyatt, Pheasant Rump Nakota

First Nation Chenoa McArthur, Elks of Canada Maurice Koszman, and for the Kisbey Legion Vice President Richard Krehbiel.

Richard Krehbiel spoke on the war graves that are located in Southeast Saskatchewan. He has volunteered to look after the graves that are in the area. They check the head stones to ensure they are still in good condition, they are not falling over, and the names are still in reading condition. If they need work, the committee sees to it that they are fixed.

Krehbiel said that there are 23,000 war grave cemeteries in 150 countries. Only 10 percent of them are in Canada. There are just under 55,000 veterans listed on a cenotaph in France. They did not return home.

O God of Love, O King of Peace and Let there be Light were the two songs that were sung. The ceremony closed with a prayer and the singing of God Save the King. Weightman invited everyone to stay and have lunch.

Approximately 200 took in the music of The Leftovers and The Ugly Strippers from the comfort of the beer gardens.

Photo courtesy of Treena Mohrbutter

Kisbey

service. Back row from left to right, Maurice Koszman, Doug Wyatt, Dwayne Weightman, Craig Bird, Elisa Jackson, Dave Bennett, Richard Krehbiel, and Chenoa McArthur. Front row from left to right, Nora Weightman, Claudia Mullis, Wendy Rounce, John Votour, Wendy Gordon, Bree Maitland, Mike Makelki, Clareen Makelki, Delaine Kendall, and Jennifer Karlunchuck. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Redvers celebrates grand opening of dog park

By Paul Kimball

Redvers now has its own dog park.

For a couple of years, the Redvers & District Lions Club had been considering creating a walking path for people and dogs on leashes, lined with benches for rest stops. But that ran into some roadblocks. They realized they were barking up the wrong tree and began thinking about a dog park instead.

On October 26th, the park celebrated its grand opening.

It is located by Redvers’ campgrounds. Although it may not be the most scenic of dog parks, it is very practical and well-used. You won’t find any trees or fire hydrants there, but you will see many dogs.

The park is divided into two sections – one for smaller dogs and one for the larger ones. There are benches on site and garbage containers, along with

a doggie-bag dispenser for taking care of doggie business. In the very near future, solar lights will provide lighting for those wishing to use it at night.

The fencing was installed this past summer and it pre-

vents the dogs from exercising too much freedom.

The construction of the park was made possible by a donation from the local Affinity Credit Union, with the rest of the costs being covered by the Lions.

The dogs have a great time running around and hanging out with their canine buddies. And while they do that, their owners sit around on the benches, hanging out with friends.

Although it is preferred that the dogs be licenced and up-todate with their shots, it is not a prerequisite. It is hoped that the park will be an added attraction for the tourists staying at the campgrounds.

Arcola Curling Club to celebrate 125 years with 64-rink bonspiel

SaskToday staff

The Arcola Curling Club is preparing to celebrate a milestone: 125 years of curling, community and hometown pride with the Cody Grimes Memorial 64Rink Bonspiel, happening March 26-29, 2026, at the Arcola Curling Club and Prairie Place Complex.

Teams will take to eight sheets of ice to compete for over $10,000 in cash and prizes. Curlers registered before the Dec. 1 early-bird deadline will have their names entered into a $1,000 draw.

With excitement already building, organizers say this bonspiel will be one to remember.

A banquet March 27, featuring opening ceremonies and live music from The Leftovers, will be part of the celebrations. Volunteers are already hard at work planning the food, raffles, auctions and entertainment.

A news release for the event says the bonspiel will be a true community effort, showcasing the same spirit that’s kept curling alive in the town for more than a century.

The bonspiel is being held in memory of Grimes, a beloved Arcola resident, gifted athlete and enthusiastic volunteer.

“Cody valued community spirit and gave his all to every project, idea and team he was part of,” said title sponsor Eagle Oilfield Services Ltd., coowned by Cody and his brother Micky.

The press release adds the 64-rink bonspiel embodies everything of importance to Cody — sport, community and competition.

“We’re proud to honour his legacy with such an exciting event,” Eagle Oilfield Services stated.

Curling has been at the heart of Arcola since 1901, when the town’s

first rink was built.

The main skating surface was framed by two sheets of curling ice.

Longtime club member Dwain Davis, who first took up curling in 1955, still smiles when he remembers those early days.

“Every second day I curled with my dad. We all rode horseback to the curling rinks,” said Davis.

Over the years, the rink has been rebuilt, lost to fire, and reconstructed again — always by local volunteers. The current three-sheet curling rink, completed in 2004, continues that legacy as part of the Prairie Place Complex.

All proceeds from the bonspiel will go toward supporting the Arcola Prairie Place Complex, ensuring the next generation has a rink to call home.

Teams interested in entering or volunteering can call 306-485-7249 for details.

Gospel Church Welcomes You 202-4th St W. Service Schedule: Sunday morning Service 10:30 a.m. Jesus Still Heals Today Wed. evening Bible Study 7:30 p.m Pastor Rodney & Gail Cox carlylefullgospel1929@gmail.com

Church of Our Lady, Carlyle

Father Chris Juchacz Carlyle: Sunday at 11 a.m.

Kenosee: Sunday at 9 a.m. Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200

Carlyle United Church

Arcola-Kisbey United Church Worship Times: 10 a.m

KISBEY: 1st & 3rd Sunday ARCOLA: 2nd, 4th & 5th Sunday Please join

202-2nd St. W.

Sunday Services: 10:00 a.m.

CL OS ED JU LY & AU GU ST *** Ph: 306-453-6136

Redvers & District Lions Club Dog Park – a great place for dogs to exercise and visit. Photo by Paul Kimball

A historical photo from the Arcola Curling Club, which will celebrate 125 years in 2026. Photo courtesy of the Arcola Curling Club

9:00 AM MONDAY

AGPRO

$9.99 per week - up

Arcola Volleyball teams take home district championships

By Stephanie Zoer

It was a busy day at the Arcola School on November 5 when they hosted the Junior girls’ volleyball district competition. Four teams battled for the title to move on to regionals. Stoughton, Wawota, Alameda and Arcola tried their best to come out on top.

The ﬁnal game took place at 5:30 p.m. with Arcola and Stoughton. All the games throughout the day were close and the girls all played well, but it would be Arcola, with coaches Trichia Glines, Trinity Boulet, and Jada Wright, and manager Raylene Forseth that would come out on top with a win against Stoughton to take the district gold medal and move on to regionals.

EXPERIENCE

There were several district competitions in the southeast. The Arcola senior girls’ volleyball team travelled to Rocanville, with their coaches Laurie James and Tori Duncan. They were unable to secure the win and will not move on to regionals.

The Arcola senior boys’ volleyball team went to Lampman with coach Lindsay Brownridge. They were defeated and will not be moving on to regionals.

The games did not end there. The Arcola Rookie girls’ volleyball team travelled to Wapella with their coach Bree Ryan. They made it the ﬁnal game against Bellegarde and took the win and will move on to regionals.

Carlyle held the district junior boy’s competition. Carlyle and Arcola battled it out in the ﬁnal game with Arcola taking the district win and going to regionals. Arcola’s coaches are Riley James, Kelsey Drumm and Laurie James.

Three out of their ﬁve teams will move on to regionals, and the Arcola School is proud of the accomplishments from all the teams.

The Arcola Junior boys volleyball team took home the gold in Carlyle for the district win. Photo courtesy of Arcola School

The Arcola Rookie girls volleyball team won the gold medal game in Wapella for the district win. Photo courtesy of Arcola School

The winning continued with the Arcola Junior girls’ volleyball team taking the district win against Stoughton. Photo courtesy of Arcola School

Serving Carlyle, Alameda, Frobisher,Oxbow, Car nduffand Melita NeilRedpath, Kurt Ardron, Sandy Dalziel &KaraSchiestel Ph: (306) 483-2401

Arrangements

6.Egyptian city 7. Pittsburgh produc t 8. “____ Not Unusual” 9. Leading comedian: 2wds.

Recently

31. Kings’chairs

32. Chemist’s work room

33. Snak yletter

36. Odor

37. Autumn tools

39. Hatfabrics

40. Honolulu hello 44. Matures

46. Word of agreement

48. “Leave to Heaven”

ACROSS

1. Lingerie piece

4. Circle sec tions

24. Ac tor’sgoal

36. “Chances ____”

8. Scratch

4. Circle sections

8. Scratch

12. Vinegar ’s companion

13. Bogproduc t

12. Vinegar ’s companion

14. Shredded

15. Fruit pastry : 2wds

17.Potato

13. Bogproduc t

18. Idolized

14. Shredded

20.Beseech

15. Fruit pastr y: 2wds

21. Thick ly padded glove

24. Ac tor’sgoal

17. Potato

25.Foamybrew

26. Imprison

28. Is able

18. Idolized

30. Kingdoms

20. Beseech

31.Mexican dish

34. Clothcoloring

21. Thick ly padded glove

35. Laughing beasts

25. Foamybrew

38. Away 41. Snares

26. Imprison 28.Isable

42. Male sheep 43. Fill again

45. Allright!

30. Kingdoms

47. Horse with high odds:2 wds.

51. Pierre’s mom

31.Mexican dish

52.“Of ISing”

34. Clothcoloring

53. Historic epoch 54.Invites

55. Back talk

35. Laughing beasts

56. VIP carpet color

36. “Chances ____”

DOWN

38. Away

41.Snares

42. Male sheep

43. Fill again

1. Large tropical snake 2. Split 3. High peak 4. Mimicked 5. Detailed accounts

45. Allright!

6. Egyptian city

47. Horse with high odds: 2wds

51.Pierre’s mom

52. “O f_ ISing”

53.Historicepoch

54. Invites 55. Back talk

7.Pittsburgh produc t 8. “____ Not Unusual” 9. Leading comedian: 2wds 10. Mean 11. Evade 16. Recently 19. Rot 21. Ruin 22. Fury 23. Company symbol

56. VIP carpet color DOWN 1. Large tropical snake

27.Smudge

Split 3. High peak

29. Modifies 31. Kings’ chairs

32. Chemist’s work room

Mimicked

33. Snak yletter

36. Odor

29. Modifies

49. Miner’syield

50. Small child

LIBRA

Youmust

SCORPIO

Your

SAGITTARIUS

Youmay

tize open communication; thiswill help you receive more love and affection.

37. Autumn tools

Detailed accounts

39. Hatfabrics

HOWTOPLAY:

Fill in the grid so thatevery row, every column and every 3x3 box containsthe numbers 1through 9onlyonce.

Each 3x3 boxisoutlined with a darker line. Youalreadyhavea few numbers to getyou started Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.

CAPRICORN You’llbebursting with energythisweek and will startplanning your holiday parties. You maycomefacetofacewithsomeofyour emotional baggage. Take amoment to relax and focus

AQUARIUS

PISCES