Estevan Mercury 20201216

www.estevanmercury.ca

We are proud to be sponsoring this event again this year

HENDERS Fourth Annual Festival of Lights 2020 December 18, 2020 - January 8, 2021 DRUGS

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 16,2020

Christmas spirit alive and well

Estevan is ready for holidays as never before. Lights are up, decorations are set and families are getting ready for Christmas. The Pleasantdale and Royal Heights neighbourhoods this year are among those all lit up with dozens of beautiful displays for the community to enjoy. But they are not the only ones. Check out the Mercury and Tourism Estevan’s ongoing Twinkle Tour promotion for a list of Estevan’s Christmas stops. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Foundation thrilled with Festival of Trees’ support

By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

It might not have had a gala, a breakfast and other attractions that bring in thousands of people over three days, but the community was still eager to support the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and its Festival of Trees: Home Edition.

The fundraiser, which has typically been the foundation’s most lucrative benefit of the year, was held over several weeks in the fall, with activities for families and businesses, a silent auction and a 50-50 draw.

“Overall our Festival of Trees went amazing this year,” said Breanne Van De Woestyne, the foundation’s executive director. “We had really low expectations, because we didn’t really know how things would work with all of the COVID restrictions.”

The foundation said this year’s effort was about celebrating Christmas and the positive things happening in the healthcare community.

“Once again our com-

munity completely blew us away by their support. We are so lucky to be part of a community that really supports not only local healthcare, but all of the community organizations right now, and it’s truly incredible just to be a part of it,” said Van De Woestyne.

Their goal this year was to focus on different audiences. With the traditional Festival of Trees, there would be a seniors’ tea, a community Christmas gala, a breakfast for families and other activities.

An ultimate 50-50 was drawn last Wednesday, with Glenda Walter’s name being drawn; she took home $10,245, with the other half of the jackpot going to the foundation. All tickets were sold online.

“The winner was very excited when we gave her a call, and that’s all that truly matters, is hearing the excitement on the person who actually won the $10,000 was truly neat,” said Van De Woestyne.

She expects the foundation will hold a similar 50-50 sale next year.

These Christmas trees were on display at Murray GM as part of the silent auction for the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation’s Festival of Trees. Photo submitted Families enjoyed the Kids’ Zone Christmas Kits, which were sponsored by the Estevan Mercury. Parents and children ordered Santa’s Workshop Kits and Night

Before Christmas Kits. There were 175 kits available this year, and those were gobbled up in about 4 1/2 days, which Van De Woestyne described as “crazy.”

“ We offered free delivery, so we were out and about delivering packages to different families,” she said. “Getting the messages and the social media posts

and just the feedback from families enjoying that time with their family, that was what that whole activity was about, was to be at home with A2 » FUNDS

Ends December 31, 2020

GET UP TO

0 2 R0EB0 ATES

$ ,

*

IN

118 Souris Ave. N. Estevan

ON MOST NEW 2020 ESCAPE MODELS

TITANIUM FIND OUT MORE AT FINDYOURFORD.CA

306-634-3696

www.senchuk.com

A2 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Festival of Lights breaks its records this year

By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

The fourth annual Festival of Lights will be the biggest one there has ever been.

With still a couple of days left before the opening, the Woodlawn Regional Park had 39 businesses, organizations and private people partaking in the festival and setting up their Christmas light displays at the park. Twenty-seven of those are returning, and 12 are new.

Maureen Daoust, who is the business manager at the Woodlawn Regional Park, said that so far everything is falling into place for another great season for the holiday attraction, and they are very excited about the number of participants they have this year.

"We are very pleased with the new groups that are coming, and obviously we applaud those that are returning," she said.

This year the park opened the Festival of Lights to families, charitable organizations and service clubs, and that attracted quite a few new groups.

"There was a couple of families (that joined). There was a group of seasonal camp-

ers that decided to do (a display). There is another site that is a local person. And we also had a couple of services come.

The Kinettes have joined, the group with the Faith Lutheran Church, they also registered and are decorating their space down here. EMS are joining, Southeast Military Museum and other retail (stores) or businesses," said Daoust.

She added that they had a lot of groups responding and willing to partake in the festival. So this year's Festival of Lights will be a great collection of displays created by local businesses, community organizations and families for the public to enjoy over the holiday season.

All displays are already installed, and now the park staff is going around, setting timers and putting the last touches on.

The festival will start on Dec. 18 at the dusk. While this year they couldn't have their traditional Kick off to Christmas Party, there still will be something special for those who choose to be the first ones to visit the site.

The Southern Plains Coop will be on site handing out

The Mercury had a sneak peek at the new edition of the Festival of Lights at Woodlawn Regional Park, and we tell you, it’s awesome. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia hot chocolate and candy canes to visitors driving or walking through the gatehouse.

Besides, the park will have a decorated spot, where anybody who wants to will be able to take a picture with Santa.

Daoust pointed out that all precautionary measures will be in place to ensure a safe experience.

"We are trying to keep the momentum going and

put everything in a positive light," said Daoust. "Hopefully people will be following the guidelines and being safe and will come out whether in cars or on foot to enjoy the first night of the lights."

In 2019, the park had 31 participants, in 2018 there were 25 displays, and the year before 11 organizations joined the initiative. While most of them returned this year, some

were excited to work on them.

Two options were offered to corporate sponsors who attended last year: they could have an advertising package through the foundation’s local media partners, or a catered office lunch. In some case, they received a lunch, and in others, they received gift cards.

The foundation also had hot chocolate charcuterie and dessert trays delivered to offices and homes

in the community. Van De Woestyne said it was a success, people enjoyed the trays and people might be able to order it throughout the year for special occasions.

The final component was a silent auction that wrapped up Friday night.

This year they were able to reach the general public, rather than just those who attend the gala. Thirty-five items were available, with prices that ranged from $200-$3,500.

also changed or updated their displays.

"We get a lot of positive feedback from the participants and a lot of positive feedback from people in the community. And a lot of comments are, 'Now more than ever.' People are wanting something to look forward to and it's something we can offer in a safe manner," Daoust said.

The festival wouldn't be

possible if not for the main supporters, including Southern Plains Co-op, Henders Drugs, Energy Electric Limited and the Estevan Chamber of Commerce.

The festival will continue until Jan. 8, 2021. The event is traditionally free of charge, but there will a box for donations if people choose to support the initiative and the park.

Funds raised will purchase capital equipment at hospital « A1 your family and just taking in some new traditions, or just spending time together and taking in the Christmas atmosphere and

spirit, and also at the end of the day supporting a great cause.”

The crafts turned out wonderfully, and the kids

ESTEVAN MOTORS

Family Owned Since 1937 Great Products....Great Service Our Sales Team is dedicated to your satisfaction

home is where the fireplace is

Natural Gas Fireplaces

Dustin Sands Sales Manager

JOHNSON

306.421.3669

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD.

53

YEARS Since 1967

130 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Call 306.634.5172

Mike Keating Sales Consultant

“Our auction was completely sponsored, so all profit from those prizes went directly to our hospital,” said Van De Woestyne. “So it just shows the incredible support that we have from the business community here in Estevan and area.”

The silent auction ran for just over a month, and generated a lot of excitement.

It also put a spotlight on the businesses.

“One thing that we really wanted to focus on was local services and local offerings that we have right here in Estevan area,” said Van De Woestyne.

Among the items available were four brightly decorated Christmas trees.

Van De Woestyne said the foundation knows that Estevan will always be there to support them, because local people are passionate about their hospital.

“We had to be very creative, and again, at the end of the day, we had a truly amazing response from our community. The support that we received from businesses, from local donors, and even from families is something

we never take for granted, and we are very, very thankful for that,” said Van De Woestyne.

A final figure on how much money was raised has not been tabulated, but Van De Woestyne said they will have a lot of funds to use towards equipment in the hospital. St. Joseph’s currently has a capital wish list for about $400,000.

The foundation also offered its annual Operation Secret Santa: Long-Term Care Edition. Thanks to support from the public, a gift was purchased for each resident of long-term care.

People could either donate $40 and have the foundation purchase the gift for the resident, or they would purchase and wrap the present themselves.

Included in each present was a fleece blanket.

People can also send in Christmas cards or letters to be delivered to the residents.

People can have the messages delivered to someone of the foundation’s choosing or to someone specific.

They have to be delivered

by Dec. 21.

Stop in for our great selection of

Estevan Farmer’s Market

306.461.6457

SALES | SERVICE | FLEET | AUTOBODY | PARTS

Will be holding their

EXPERT SERVICE & REPAIR | AUTOBODY SERVICE QUALITY PRE-OWNED CARS & TRUCKS | RV PARTS

stocking stuffers.

Christmas Sales

Weekdays 8 am - 5:30 pm | Saturdays 9 am - 3 pm

in the Estevan Market Mall

NEW

MOONLIGHT SALES! Friday

December 18 | 5pm- 9pm

Saturday

December 19 | 9:30am - 2:00pm

Corner of 4th & Souris

Follow us on Facebook

Locally Owned & Operated

440 King St. Estevan 306-637-2550

Give the gift of a

GOOD NIGHT SLEEP • Weighted Blankets • Sheets • Pillows • Mattress Pads • Mattresses • Comforters

Benefits of a Weighted Blanket: • Improve sleep • Elevate mood • Reduce stress & anxiety • May help with restless leg syndrome • Stimulate the feeling from a gentle hug

1305 6TH STREET, ESTEVAN • 306-636-2444 • www.roombyroomfurniture.net

Your LocaL Hearing impaired Hearing SpeciaLiSt

Landon Woodruff

Community

g

g

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A3

g

Full Hearing Tests

g

Hearing Aids And Repairs 60 Day Trial Period

Batteries And Assistive Listening Devices

g

Third Party Billing

1-306-634-0193 #130-1175 Nicholson Road dunlophearing@gmail.com

Joyful Pathway adds to Estevan’s Christmas cheer

Christmas decorations adorn the trees along the Pleasantdale Valley pathway in Estevan, thanks to the 100 Kids Who Care Estevan chapter. Photo submitted The pathway that runs through the Pleasantdale Valley from Wellock Road to King Street is a little more festive, thanks to the efforts of some local families.

Members of Estevan’s 100 Kids Who Care chapter decorated the trees adjacent to the pathway Dec. 6 as part of their Joyful Pathway Project.

Brooke Spagrud, who is one of the founding leaders of the club, said she came up with the idea because they haven’t had anything yet this fall.

Typically the 100 Kids who Care gather quarterly to decide a cause they want to support, and there would have been a meeting in December.

“This idea came to mind, and I thought

this would give us a great opportunity to also teach our kids that giving back to the community doesn’t have to be financial, or done with a monetary donation, that we can give back to our community in different ways.”

Through this particular project, they’re hoping to give back by bringing joy to the community.

Spagrud came up with the idea after she saw a community try something similar with one of their pathways. Someone placed a few decorations on trees, and a few other people joined in to create something festive.

Also, a few weeks ago, she was walking down the Pleasantdale pathway with her daughter Brynn

Hubick, and Spagrud suggested it would be cool to decorate the trees. Brynn agreed.

Spagrud then contacted the city to get their blessing, and once she had the green light, then it was a matter of contacting everyone within the chapter to get as many people out as possible. “ We w a n t e d to get it done early enough in December that we could still enjoy it before Christmas,” said Spagrud.

The participating families stayed in their own small groups, and as people came, Spagrud told them where decorations could be added.

They had enough decorations for a little more than half of the pathway.

“While we were

there decorating, people were coming by and stopping and acknowledging us, and thanking us for doing that. Just lots of people, nothing but compliments,” said Spagrud.

People have been walking through the valley to see the decorations, and some have even added ornaments of their own to the trees.

The Pleasantdale valley pathway was selected because the neighbouring trees are far enough away that if there is snow, then they wouldn’t be infringing on snow removal efforts. It’s also a paved pathway, so it’s safe for people to walk on. “ I t h i n k i t ’s very well used,” said Spagrud. “Personally,

we use it quite a bit, whether we’re walking or biking. There are lots of paths that take people south of town.

Woodlawn’s beautiful.

I know lots of people go down there … but this was a totally different part of town.”

Spagrud said this will be the only pathway they decorate this year. They wanted to do one pathway really well, enjoy it and see what the public thinks.

But it could become a tradition for the 100 Kids who Care, and they might select a different pathway in future years.

The members of 100 Kids Who Care will have to remove the decorations in January, and Spagrud said they could use some help from the community with those efforts.

Brynn Hubick, Quinn O’Hanlon and Tucker Karcha spent an afternoon adding Christmas decorations to trees. Photo submitted.

Warm Welcome Kitchen keeps supplying hot suppers for the community out of Trinity Lutheran Church

By Ana Bykhovskaia

abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

Estevan's Warm Welcome Kitchen has navigated through all the storms this year, and has adapted its operation to continue serving suppers twice a week.

The kitchen has steadily been offering hot, fullycooked and prepared meals that can be picked up in a takeout container. The locations and times have changed since the beginning of the year. Meals are now served on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Trinity Lutheran Church, from 5:30-6:15 p.m.

Warm Welcome Kitchen will continue supporting their patrons all the way through the winter and into the spring. As they've always done in the past, they will take a break over the holidays starting Dec. 17, and they will start back on Jan. 5, 2021.

The general situation at the kitchen since the beginning of the 2020-21 season has been good.

"So far it's going really

well. We had a lot of changes because of COVID, and one of our churches shut down and we had to move. But all in all, it's going really well. I think we are serving about 50 people each time," said Wendy Godfrey, who is the chairperson of the Warm Welcome board.

Due to COVID restrictions, people couldn't dine in anymore, which unfortunately temporarily took the social aspect away, but at least those volunteering their time with the kitchen know that everyone who wants some good food can get it.

Since the beginning of the season, regular visitors and new clients have been coming to the door to pick up their food. If there's a lineup, patrons are asked to distance, while volunteers are delivering their packages.

The kitchen had to skip a couple of meals in the recent past. Godfrey explained that it took them some time to adjust when the new regulations came into place. Besides, Christa Jorgensen, who is the kitchen co-ordinator,

was the only person cooking for them, and when she was unavailable they had to cancel, too.

"We now have a lady who has volunteered to be backup for ( Jorgensen), so we shouldn't be missing any more meals. Both of them are very experienced in cooking for large crowds, so they have no problems putting together a great meal," Godfrey said.

Warm Welcome Kitchen keeps their meals diverse for patrons to enjoy.

"It's a different meal every time, and it's a full proper meal with meat and a side dish, and vegetables, sometimes a bun."

When food is cooked, a few volunteers come in to help package meals and then deliver them to people outside. There are only up to three volunteers helping with delivery at a time, but Godfrey said they always welcome volunteers or organizations to join them and help with their work.

"Volunteers are a little harder to come by now. Some people are a little uncomfort-

Volunteers joined Warm Welcome Kitchen co-ordinator Christa Jorgenson, second from right, to serve meals on Thursday. Photo submitted able and helping because of COVID, which is understandable … But there is always a need for volunteers."

Godfrey added that financially they are in good shape, for now, thanks to

generous individuals and organizations that supported them in the past. But going into the future they will consider running a fundraiser to make sure they always have funds available to keep their

service going.

"Mostly we just rely on donations from people. And people in the community have been really generous.

We've been really fortunate for that," Godfrey said.

? e n o e m o s l a i c e p s t a h t r o f ft i g a d e Ne Come in and see our laptops and computers.

Christmastime is about family time!

Pick up a new board game or puzzle for the break!

Holiday hours Dec 24 - 8am - 3pm Dec 25 & 26 - Closed Dec 31 - 8am - 3pm Jan 1 & 2 - Closed

1217 4th Street, Estevan, SK 306-634-3613

Editorial

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A4

Staff SERVING CANADA’S SUNSHINE CAPITAL Publisher / Sales

Deanna Tarnes - dtarnes@estevanmercury.ca

Editor

David Willberg - dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Editorial Staff Ana Bykhovskaia - abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

Production Manager

Ana Villarreal - avillarreal@estevanmercury.ca

Administration

Vaila Lindenbach - vlindenbach@estevanmercury.ca

Publisher's Assistant

Fay Bonthoux - fbonthoux@estevanmercury.ca

EDITORIAL

Volume 115 Issue 35 Contact us: (306) 634-2654 68 Souris Avenue N. Estevan, SK S4A 2M3 www.estevanmercury.ca @Estevan_Mercury facebook.com/EstevanMercury

Subscription Rates:

In Saskatchewan - $80.75 In Canada - $90.75

Published weekly by Prairie Newspaper Group Limited Partnership, 68 Souris Avenue N., Estevan, SK S4A 2M3.The Estevan Mercury is owned and operated

by Prairie Newspaper Group Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of Glacier Media Inc. Advertising rates are available upon request and are subject to change without notice.

Conditions of editorial and advertising content: The Estevan Mercury attempts to be accurate in Editorial and Advertising content; however, no guarantee is given or implied. The Estevan Mercury reserves the right to revise or reject any or all editorial and advertising content as the newspaper’s principals see fit. The Estevan Mercury will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of an advertisement, and is not responsible for errors in advertisements except for the space occupied by such errors.

The Estevan Mercury will not be responsible for manuscripts, photographs, negatives and other related material that may be submitted for possible publication.

All of the Estevan Mercury’s content is protected

by Canadian Copyright laws. Reviews and similar mention of material in this newspaper is granted on the provision that The Estevan Mercury receives credit.

Otherwise, any reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. Advertisers purchase space and circulation only. Rights to any advertisement produced by The Estevan Mercury, including artwork, typography, photos, etc., remain the property of this newspaper. Advertisements or parts thereof may not be reproduced or assigned without the consent of the publisher.

We acknowledge financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

Carbon tax news keeps getting worse If you thought the federally-forced carbon tax was bad before, it keeps getting worse.

The federal Liberals announced its plans Friday to dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

That actually should be a good thing.

We’re all in favour of cleaner air and a healthier environment and reasonable actions to create a healthier planet.

The word reasonable shouldn’t be used to describe their plans.

The carbon tax, which has been a source of frustration for Saskatchewan residents since it was ramrodded on this province in 2019, is going to increase, from $30 a tonne to $170 a tonne. If you thought the first year of the carbon tax was bad news, it’s only going to get worse.

If you thought industries vital to this province were getting hit hard, the impact will only get worse.

Will the feds continue to roll out carbon tax rebates to all of us in a feeble attempt to offset much of the cost of living increases we see, not only at the fuel pumps, but anything else connected to an industry that will be affected by a carbon tax increase? (Supporters of carbon taxes often fail to realize how many industries are affected, and they fail to grasp the trickledown effect).

Will those rebates keep pace with the increases in the carbon tax? Or will this result in more middle class families falling behind with

their bills?

And if the rebates do keep pace, doesn’t it make this feel like a damn vote grab?

The carbon tax is not good for this province.

And if you support the carbon tax, then you don’t have the best interests in the province at heart on this particular issue.

It’s going to hurt our farmers. These people provide an essential service to our country. It’s going to hurt the mining sector. And it’s going to have serious consequences for the oil and gas sector.

And when mining, agriculture and the oil and gas sector suffer, so does everyone in this province, despite what some idealistic urbanites would have you believe.

Governments need to take action to address climate change. They need to move now.

But there’s a right way to go about this, and the wrong way.

The right way is through investment. Invest in technology and human ingenuity and innovation. Invest in further deployment in carbon capture and storage technology. Perhaps Prime Minister Justin Trudeau himself should come out here, tour the Boundary Dam CCS facility, view the technology, and see how it’s actually working. It’s likely going to capture at least 700,000 tonnes of CO2 this year, which will be used for enhanced oil recovery.

(And yes, you can consider that an invitation to the PM to come out here, once we have

a return to somewhat normalcy).

You want to talk about a project that works for both the economy and the environment, while showcasing ingenuity and technological innovation? The CCS facility does just that. And we have two more units out here that could make good use of it.

It’s time for the feds to take a look at what Saskatchewan farmers are doing to make their operations more sustainable while still being a financial success.

Once this whole COVID-19 mess is cleared up, perhaps it’s time for our prime minister to spend more time in rural areas, learn about the sustainability practices that exist, and find out how investment in these processes would be the way to go.

And it’s time for Trudeau to see just how much carbon taxes are hurting all Canadians somewhere down the line.

When a carbon tax chases a business out of our country, we all lose.

It’s time to think beyond just higher taxes.

We live in a country that is blessed with natural resources. And we live in a province with an incredible wealth of resources, the technology to capitalize on them, and the people with the know-how to make it happen.

We should be the envy of the world for so many reasons, including our resources.

So let’s invest in them, make them more environmentally friendly, and create a better world.

When it comes to shopping, men are definitely from Mars and we are from Venus I love giving gifts.

I like searching for them, and finding something that might be not a first necessity (however, I usually try to ask if there is anything a particular person needs or wants beforehand), but will make people smile when they unwrap. I love handmade and unique items. And I usually shop with a person I shop for in mind, trying to find something that speaks to our relations.

So you can tell that for me gift shopping is a big deal. It takes time, energy and imagination.

And often, if I don’t have a particular idea in mind, I just stop by the stores I like, looking for something that can direct or inspire me to later grow that spark into a personal gift.

This year, I guess due to everything happening around the world, for me shopping turned into a special delight. I think it started in August when I got to drive to get gifts for people I know.

I made a package for my friend and her family that live in South Korea and shipped it there just for the sake of it. They don’t even know it’s coming. It took me about a month to come up with something that would be special for each one of the five family members, and I loved that time.

Since then every birthday was like my own holiday. I used every opportunity to put a part of my soul and share all my best thoughts and wishes with others through gifts.

That itch I got back in summer lasted all the way through until now, when all of a sudden I hit the wall. That happened when I started putting all the energy flows together to get something for my husband, and pretty quickly realized that it was a mission impossible type of story.

Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About…

Seriously, what do you ladies give to your special men? I think I’ve been to every single store in town. From Walmart, Peavey Mart and Canadian Tire, to Wood Country, Kendall’s and McComb, from the General Store and A&A Jewellery, to Mark’s and The Brick, from House of Stationery to Southern Bolt Supply. I came to the task very open-minded, and so far I made it out with a heavy heart and almost empty hands.

Husband also is not much help. “I want nothing,” he keeps saying every time it comes to any kind of holiday. What he doesn’t get, is giving gifts is part of me. I want to get him something because that’s my way of showing that I care, not because I have to or because he needs something. But I realized that I don’t know how to shop for my man and for men in general.

If they need tools, they usually get them when they need them. If their clothes go bad, they just restock them. If they are using any accessorizes, in most cases, they need one or two at the most. If they have any hobbies, they are so eager about them, that they can’t wait until the holidays to get something they want.

On the other hand, many men’s gifts are one time purchases. If it’s for your special man, you usually try to buy the best thing you can at the time. So when it comes to giving him a wallet, watch or even a razor or a trimmer, you

know that for the next few years, these options are off the table.

Besides, if you check out gift compartments (that’s supposed to help you out by supplying endless great ideas), you realize that about 90 per cent of stuff there is for women.

So when my male friends complain about how difficult it is to shop for girls, I can’t resist but roll my eyes. The amount of options for us is endless. I don’t think there are too many women who’d say, “No, don’t give me perfume because I already have one.” I have six, and there are another five that I wouldn’t mind having.

Before the pandemic, the emotions and experiences were my saviours when it came to my husband’s gifts. We would travel or do something, and that was amazing. So with eating out once in a while already being a part of our routine, and most types of other entertainment being shut down, there was not much I could come up with in that field this year.

After four weeks of searching and generating ideas, so far I came up with one gift, which is also the most trivial gift for a man. I got him socks. Very expensive socks, which are made of alpaca wool and which are supposed to be the warmest there are. He always struggles in winter, so I guess it’s still personal. (And I’m pretty sure that he won’t read my column, that’s why I’m writing it. So if you talk to him, shhh, it’s still a big surprise). But seriously, socks, that’s all I got!

So if you have any great ideas or know some magic place on Earth that has the best gifts for your man, please, give me the address, because I’m just about at the end of my rope.

And if that place is in Estevan, I’ll owe you a gift too.

Op-Ed A5

David Willberg Willberg’s World

I’ll roll up my sleeve, but not right away The approval and early roll-out for a COVID-19 vaccine is the best news we’ve had in the nine-plus months since COVID-19 restrictions first came into effect.

Health Canada has approved Pfizer’s vaccine for COVID-19. Others are expected to follow soon. The provincial government announced its COVID-19 rollout plan last week; the first doses of the vaccine were slated to arrive in Saskatchewan this week.

This is all very, very good news.

I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that I believe that I have 100 per cent total confidence. We’re all looking forward to the day when talk of COVID-19, self-isolation, lockdowns, restrictions, mandatory mask usage, U.S. border closures and other decisions that have occurred in the last nine months become a thing of the past.

I know some people are leery about this vaccine. Some concerns are valid. They’re worried about how quickly it has developed, how quickly it’s going to be rolled out, how little we still actually know about this disease, how long it will be effective and whether it will actually work.

Will there be complications?

There are still questions to be asked, questions that we won’t have answered for some time.

And ultimately, we can’t afford to be wrong with this one.

If we’re wrong, then it puts us back or close to square one, and the consequences will be steep. I fear the day in which we find out that all the time and money spent on vaccines was for naught, that we rushed the process, that we were too eager to get back to normal, and more people died unnecessarily. I hope it won’t happen.

When you’re dealing with a new disease with so many consequences, you have to find the middle ground between aggression and caution.

You also have those who won’t get the vaccine because they cling to some goofy conspiracy theory, or because they’re in the Facebook MD crowd, or because they believe anything that fits their agenda, or, worst of all, because they belong to the anti-vaccine crowd.

When it’s my turn, I’ll get the vaccine. But there’s a lot of people who should be vaccinated before me.

I still have a pretty robust immune system. I haven’t had a cold in nearly three years. Of course, when I do feel symptomatic of a cold, I can pump myself full of Cold-FX; I can’t purchase COVID-FX. So I should be near the back of the line.

This vaccine needs to get to our front-line healthcare workers, those in personal care homes, senior citizens, teachers, police officers, firefighters and other essential services people before it gets to me. It needs to get to the immune-compromised and those with underlying health conditions before it’s administered to me.

And it needs to get to those in at-risk communities. We saw in the spring and summer the impact COVID had on remote, northern areas and in communal living settings.

Hopefully, once we get the majority of residents vaccinated, we can see the restrictions lifted, we can start to return to normal, and this wildly unpredictable “new normal” of the past nine months can end.

Hopefully, we won’t have to wait for the vast majority of people to be vaccinated, or for the vaccine to be administered to all who want it. Hopefully the vast majority will eventually want the vaccine.

Hopefully, we can gather at a concert or a Canada Day parade or a sporting event next summer without having to hear the words “super spreader.” But we can’t be too quick to move, and put other people’s lives at risk because of our eagerness to gather in large crowds again.

It truly is remarkable that we’re talking about a vaccine for a virus that we didn’t know existed a year ago. That’s a testament to the advances we have seen in science and technology over the years.

It’s due to the many people far smarter than most of us who have dedicated many hours to the incredible research.

COVID’s always going to be with us in some way. In the past 500 years, humanity has managed to eradicate one disease: smallpox. We’re on the cusp of doing it to polio (thanks Rotary International for that one) but to expect a full eradication of COVID because we have a vaccine goes against history.

But at least we’re now looking at the day in which COVID isn’t part of the daily vocabulary.

I look forward to the day when I get my two doses of vaccines. But there’ll be a lot of people who need it more than I do.

Delivering the Gold Standard in real estate & property management services

LYNN CHIPLEY, Broker/Owner Cell 306.421.0100

1339 Fourth St., Estevan, SK S4A 0X1 Office 306.634.1020 lynn.chipley@c21.ca www.century21.ca/lynn.chipley

Wednesday,December 16, 2020

Each office is independently owned and operated.

The Comp’s kitchen programs continues to support local families The kitchen at the Estevan Comprehensive S chool (ECS) has been doing its part to help feed families in the region.

Thanks to the generosity of the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation, the South East Cornerstone Public School Division has been providing support to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A total of 250 families in the division received three meals each in June, and another three meals were prepared for 235 families in December.

ECS played a big role in preparing those meals.

“The school division tried to help out where they could. Myself at ECS and Ardell (Pearson) in Weyburn offered to help out by making some of the meals for families that could use that assistance,” said Curtis Hack, the chef instructor and technical education department head at ECS. Each meal was sufficient to feed a family of five.

The schools were so cost-efficient with their expenses that they still had money left over from the spring, and they decided to prepare more meals in December.

“The menus seemed to be positive last spring, so we did the same thing this fall.

People were very grateful.

We had lots of compliments from people and we got lots of thank yous from school division people,” said Hack.

He believes these meals were more effective than gift cards, because they brought

Brynne McGraw, left, and Caitlyn Whynot prepared meals for local families through the Estevan Comprehensive School’s cooking program. more value.

“Between the two high schools, we take the money and we can drive it a little bit further because we’re buying the foods from Sysco.

We get more for our dollar that way.”

The school division staff heard lots of positive feedback from those who delivered and received the meals. The program extended beyond the two cities in the division to the residents of rural areas.

“We’re always happy to do something like this. Last spring, of course, with classes being cancelled, we still had some staff in the building … doing work. They were over-

hauling the kitchen, doing a really deep cleaning. It was really nice to have something to do because it took about four or five days to put it all together.”

Hack and employees prepared the meals in the spring in Estevan.

Students provided assistance in the fall. They needed a few days again, with two or three days for preparation work and a couple more days bringing it all together.

“We just wanted to ensure that they had a good solid meal, and that they were frozen fresh and arrived in a safe condition when they arrived in the communities.”

Hack said the students have enjoyed the experience, and they have adhered to the guidelines set out by the provincial government.

Even though they had more workers this time, it actually took longer to prepare the meals, because the students were working on them every second day.

“The feedback in my classes was really great, too.

It gave something for the kids to do that was a little bit different, and helping people is always good,” Hack said.

The meals prepared at ECS were shipped out on Dec. 7 to communities in the eastern area of the school division.

RCMP traffic stop results in charges An Estevan man is facing numerous charges after a traffic stop outside the city on Dec. 7.

Members of the Estevan RCMP were notified at approximately 6:15 p.m. of a complaint of an erratic driver on Highway 39. Police located the vehicle near Midale and found items that were linked to a break and enter from earlier in the day in Grenfell.

Among the items recovered was a large quantity of firearms.

A 45-year-old man from Estevan faces charges of impaired operation of a vehicle by drug, possession of a Schedule 1 substance, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a restricted firearm and possession of a weapon obtained by the commission of an offence.

A 39-year-old Regina man also faces charges of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, unauthorized possession of

The Estevan RCMP seized these firearms near Midale on Dec. 7.

Photo submitted a firearm, possession of a restricted firearm, and possession of a weapon obtained by the commission of an offence.

Both men were held for court on Dec. 10.

Ear ly the following morning, at approximately 1 a.m., Estevan RCMP members were dispatched to a

complaint of a dangerous driver. Police located the vehicle heading southbound on Highway 39 near Macoun.

As a result of the traffic stop, a 37-year-old Estevan man was arrested for impaired operation of a motor vehicle by drug. He was released to appear in court

Buy $50 Gift Card Get $10 FREE Order Online at firedupgrill.ca

on Jan. 11, 2021.

If you have information about this or any other crime, please contact your nearest police service or RCMP, or you may call Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

A6 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Estevan Mercury donated to community projects

Estevan Kinette Club members Chelsey Istace and Kristol Nagy accepted over 30 pyjamas from Estevan Mercury publisher/sales manager Deanna Tarnes.

Thanks to the support for the Win Your Christmas Wish List promotion, the Estevan Mercury was able to support two worthy causes in the community.

For each wish list submission, the Mercury used $1 to purchase pyjamas for the Estevan Kinettes Club’s PJ Project and the Community Hamper Association’s Angel Tree program.

Hamper recipients with a child or children get to select a toy through the Angel Tree and a pair of pyjamas through the PJ Project for each child.

The Mercury supplied pyjamas for boys of different ages, as there is always a lack of male PJs at the end of the campaign.

The Mercury purchased the toys from Your Toy Store

The Mercury was able to purchase $500 in toys from Your Toy Store and More through support for our Win Your Christmas Wish List promotion.

& More. When people purchased their toys for the Angel Tree from the local business, they received a discount.

The winner of the Win Your Christmas Wish List promotion will be announced Dec. 16.

The lucky person will get to purchase the items on their wish list from local, participating businesses, with a maximum value of $1,000.

Thank you Carriers.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Gather a harvest 5. Federal Republic of Germany 8. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

11. “The Little Mermaid” 13. The common gibbon 14. Volcanic island in Fiji 15. Mother of Perseus 16. Egg cells 17. Teams’ best pitchers 18. Credit associations 20. Advance 21. Hair styling products 22. Benign tumors 25. Arriving early 30. Called it a career 31. __ Paulo, city 32. Avoid with trickery 33. Easter egg 38. Veterans battleground 41. Lack of success 43. Thing that causes disgust 45. Deep, continuing sound 47. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea 49. You might put it in a fire 50. Partner to “oohed” 55. Actor Idris 56. Slippery 57. Plant of the bean family 59. One point north of northeast 60. Patti Hearst’s captors 61. Places to hang clothes 62. Midwife 63. Of she 64. S. Korean statesman

Every week your Estevan Mercury is delivered to you free of charge by our team of dedicated carriers.

Through rain, shine, snow, cold and heat waves, they make sure the news is delivered.

This Christmas season, please thank your carrier.

Merry Christmas.

CLUES DOWN 1. Cool!

2. Amounts of time

3. Aboriginal people of Japan 4. Popular veggies 5. Wedding accessory 6. Deep, narrow gorges 7. Dry cereal 8. Competitions that require speed 9. Cain and __ 10. Snake sound 12. Type of amino acid (abbr.)

14. Pattern of notes in Indian music 19. Satisfy 23. Misfire 24. Nearsightedness 25. Indicates before 26. Increase motor speed 27. When you hope to get there 28. Indicates position 29. Where rockers perform 34. Substitute 35. __ juris: of one’s own right 36. Earliest form of modern human in Europe: __-magnon 37. Adult female bird 39. Do away with 40. Lens 41. Flattened appendage 42. Post or pillar in Greek temple 44. A medieval citizen of Hungary 45. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 46. Abba __, Israeli politician 47. Sew 48. Evergreen trees and shrubs having oily one-seeded fruits 51. Swiss river 52. Grayish-white 53. A way to illustrate 54. College basketball superpower 58. Midway between south and southeast

NOTICE - EARLY AD BOOKING DEADLINES Dec. 16th Issue Ad booking - Dec 11 Ad approval - Dec 14 Classifieds - Dec 9

Dec. 23th Issue Ad booking - Dec 11 Ad approval - Dec 16 Classfieds - Dec 14 @ 11am

Dec. 30th Issue Jan. 6/2021 Ad booking - Dec 15 No Publication Ad approval - Dec 17 1st issue of 2021 Classifieds - Dec 15 @ 11am will be January 13.

Our office will be closed from December 21, 2020 through January 1, 2021.

We will re-open January 4, 2021 @ 8:00 am 306.634.2654 dtarnes@estevanmercury.ca

Business

Each office independently owned and operated

IT TAKES MORE THAN A SIGN!

Josh LeBlanc

REALTOR® (PART-TIME)

306-421-6778

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A7

www.joshleblanc.ca

Whitecap to combine with Torc in oilfield merger Brian Zinchuk , Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two of Saskatchewan’s intermediate oil producers announced on Dec. 8 their intention to combine.

Whitecap Resources Inc. and Torc Oil & Gas Ltd. announced a business combination of “two strong energy franchises resulting in a wellcapitalized, low decline, light oil weighted company with an attractive free funds flow profile,” according to their joint release.

Upon closure of the deal, the combined company will be close in scale to the size of Crescent Point Energy Corp, after that company spent the last several years shedding onethird of its assets.

The two intermediate producers have agreed to combine their businesses in an at-market, all-stock transaction valued at approximately $900 million, including Torc's net debt, estimated at $335 million, as of Dec. 31. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders of Torc will receive 0.57 Whitecap

common shares in exchange for each Torc common share held.

The at-market exchange ratio was determined using 10day volume weighted average share prices of the Whitecap Shares and the Torc shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange prior to signing the agreement.

The move is part of a recent string of mergers in the Saskatchewan oilpatch involving Whitecap. On Aug. 31, Whitecap announced that it had entered into an agreement in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $155 million with NAL Resources Limited and a privately held wholly owned subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation. With that integration progressing, Whitecap continues to anticipate the close of the NAL transaction on Jan. 4, 2021.

Whitecap's stand-alone forecasted base case for 2021 (including the completion of the NAL transaction), is average production of 81,000–83,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) on capital investments of $250-$270 million. The pro forma entity is expected to have average production in 2021 of

DOING BUSINESS IN ESTEVAN

How Conquest Equipment Used the Business Incentives to Start Up in Estevan

When Conquest Equipment was looking for a new location to expand their business, Estevan was one of the first choices. This wasn’t just because of its proximity to Oxbow where the business started, but also because of the available incentives that made the move and facility upgrades possible.

Conquest Equipment rents and sells heavy construction equipment. They specialize in compaction, but also provide other construction equipment. With most of their clients spread across western Canada and North Dakota, Estevan’s central location has worked well for the company. Moving into 2021 Conquest is looking forward to offering service work based out of Estevan for equipment owners. Previously, they have only provided service work on their own equipment.

Conquest’s office is located next to Southeast College on Bourquin drive. They moved into their location in December of 2018 and were able to take advantage of the New/Growing Business Tax Incentive. One of the areas that this incentive covers is for new entities purchasing an existing vacant building within Estevan.

These businesses are eligible to receive a property tax exemption of up to $10,000 per year for 3 consecutive years*.

“We heard about the incentive program (Economic Development) had” said Conquest Equipment President, Greg Hodgson. “The incentives helped offset the taxes enough for the first few years and it justified us moving in here and getting established and developing the property.”

Whitecap Resources president and CEO Grant Fagerheim 99,000–101,000 boepd (assuming a closing date of Feb. 25, 2021) on capital investments of $280 to $300 million.

Based on this spending and production profile, Whitecap anticipates generating funds flow of approximately $602 million, with free funds flow of approximately $312 million and a total payout ratio of 66 per cent, based on commodity prices of US$45/barrel for West Texas Intermediate and C$2.50/gigajoule for Alberta

Energy Company. A detailed 2021 budget will be provided on close of the business combination.

The combinations of Whitecap with NAL, the private entity, then Torc, will result in a company with over 100,000 boepd (78 per cent oil and natural gas liquids) of corporate production, much of that in Saskatchewan. The combined entity will have an enterprise value of approximately $4 billion and has paid $1.4 billion in cumulative dividends to shareholders since inception.

The combined entity of Whitecap and Torc will be headed by the existing Whitecap executive team and will “continue to advance a total return model combining modest production growth with meaningful cash dividends,” the release said.

The business combination has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both Whitecap and Torc and is expected to close on or before Feb. 25, 2021, subject to customary conditions, including the receipt of necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Torc’s current production is approximately 25,000 boepd and its production in 2021 is expected to average 22,000 boepd due to a moderated capital program, resulting in a production decline rate of less than 19 per cent. The lower production profile is designed to enhance the combined entity's ability to generate significant free funds flow to increase cash returns to shareholders.

Grant Fagerheim, Whitecap's president and CEO, said in a release, “We are combining two strong Canadian energy producers to form a leading large-cap, light oil company geared towards generating sustainable long-term returns for shareholders while prioritizing responsible Canadian energy development.

“Despite the challenging conditions and significant volatility throughout the year, we have become an even stronger and more resilient energy producer entering 2021 with the combination with Torc as well as the NAL transaction announced on August 31, 2020.

We would like to thank our employees for their contin-

ued exemplary efforts and our shareholders for their ongoing support. We look forward to advancing returns to our shareholders into the future.”

Brett Herman,Torc's president and CEO, stated, “On behalf of Torc's management and board of directors, we would like to thank our shareholders for their ongoing support over the past 10 years.

“We believe our corporate values are closely aligned with Whitecap's management team and the announced business combination will create an exceptionally resilient energy producer that is positioned for growth, while delivering a sustainable dividend to shareholders.

“In a market environment that is increasingly favouring size and scale, a business combination with Whitecap exposes Torc shareholders to a larger platform while remaining consistent with our existing philosophy of balancing growth with financial discipline along with prudent capital allocation. We are pleased to become shareholders of Whitecap.”

Amazing, must have gifts for the Holidays - in the boutique on 4th!

The Must-Have Beanie

Blundstones

Cute Warm boots

Brunette the Label Sweatshirts

Go Belts

Handbags & Wallets

Locally Designed Jewelry

Leather Finger Mitts

Pajamas

Fuzzy Slippers

Cozy Stockport Cardigans

1/2 Zips

“So far, Estevan has been a good fit to move to,” Hodgson added. “We’re ideally located with the close proximity to the North Portal border crossing and easy access to heavy trucking routes. Being closer to local suppliers has also been a benefit to working in Estevan. “It’s a lot easier to only drive across town to get parts and materials instead of coming from out of town.”

Businesses looking for more information on this or any of the other business incentives can find it at EstevanEconomicDevelopment.ca, or by contacting Coal Transition and Economic Development Coordinator Richard Sadick at (306) 634-1843 or email economicdevelopment@estevan.ca. *Terms and conditions apply. All applications are subject to the approval of the Estevan Economic Development Board. www.estevaneconomicdevelopment.ca | 306.634.1843

1225 4th St., EStEvan or shop online at jennyjoans.com

A8 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Christmas Decoration

T W INKLE TOUR SCAV ENGER HUNT Santa ________________________________ Candy Cane ___________________________ Wreath _______________________________ North Pole Sign ________________________ Snowman _____________________________ Carolers ______________________________ Elf ___________________________________ Giant Present __________________________ Angel _________________________________ Peace Sign ____________________________

Rudolph ______________________________ Spiral Tree ____________________________ Joy Sign ______________________________ Christmas Train ________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Polar Bear_____________________________ Stocking ______________________________ Teddy Bear ____________________________ Snowflake _____________________________ Toy Soldier ____________________________

Pointsettia ____________________________ Gingerbread Man_______________________ Snowglobe ____________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Mrs. Claus ____________________________ 3 Deer ________________________________ Sleigh ________________________________ Paw Patrol_____________________________ Snoopy _______________________________ Big Ornament __________________________

Bonus: Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate House for sale: __________________________________________________________

HOW TO PLAY:

Name: ________________________________

1) Cut this out 2) Drive around town & find the items on the list 3) Write down the address 4) Drop off at the Estevan Mercury, 68 Souris Avenue 5) Watch the January 13th Estevan Mercury for the winner 6) Have fun #makingmemories.

Phone Number: _________________________

There are so many houses lit up all over town this year.

DON’T MISS THESE ONES! 1271 King Street 1601 Grundeen Crescent 825 Eva Street 508 Albert street Spruce Drive 300 block Peterson Frehlick Bay 430 426 Brooks Galloway Street

Our Gift to You!

Stuckey Road (first left after Woodlawn Golf 426 Brooks Road Course entrance) 1400 2nd Street South of Roche Percee on Hwy 39 300 block 3rd Street Over by West Valley Edge 1300 3rd Street Newcombe Drive 8th Street Heading out of town towards Stoughton(Hwy47) Woodlawn Regional Park Festival of Lights (after Dec 18) Collins Road Music on 1st Street If you find any other gems, email dtarnes@estevanmercury.ca!

Jubilee Place

GuidinG you home.

$50

For every gift certificate ate purchased, d,, receive a $5 5 gift certificate ate FREE!

Merry Christmas

P ICK U P A T R E AT F O R YO U R

Tour!

TWINKLE Brewed Fresh Coffee Hot Chocolates Specialty Coffee & Hot Chocolate Ice Coffee Pepsi Products Snacks

from

Need a quick lunch?

Pick up a fresh made sandwich & drink!

100 Souris Avenue • 306-634-6858

1210 4th Street • 306-634-9898 • www.coldwellbanker.ca

230 4th Street

Custom, Programmable, LED Christmas Lights!

Presents the

4th Annual

Enjoy your twinkle tour!

Festival of Lights

#makingmemories

2020

December 18, 2020 - January 8, 2021

Thanks to our sponsors:

Henders Drugs • Energy Electric Ltd. Southern Plains Co-op Estevan Chamber of Commerce

24 Hour Electrical Service Company Owned and operated

by Tye Doan

Serving SE Sask.

Your experienced local paving company. gencoasphalt.ca • 306.634.8001

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 A9

Oxbow Community Childcare Centre to hold second annual Christmas Raffle fundraiser year in the spring – our online spring auction fundraiser – and then hold raffles, bake sales, barbecues, etc., throughout the year to meet our fundraising goal for each year,” said Kayla Mathison, the director of the centre.

“Unfortunately this year our options were very limited because of the pandemic – we had to postpone our online spring auction fundraiser to July, weren't able to hold any

By Lisa McCullough

The Oxbow Community Childcare Centre is holding their Christmas Raffle fundraiser once again this year. This will be their second year holding this event.

Due to the pandemic they were unable to hold all their other fundraisers this year.

“We fundraise all year round usually, with our largest fundraiser being held each

barbecues or bake sales, and had to turn our annual Christmas paint night event into an online paint event.

This is our second annual Christmas Raffle Fundraiser and we're very hopeful for a good outcome since we were unable to hold a lot of our usual smaller scale fundraisers this year.”

The centre holds a gift card fundraiser in November and then piggybacks off of

that one to order extra gift cards for their Christmas Raffle Fundraiser.

“This year we were fortunate to have the Southern Plains Co-op donate the second place prize as well as had one of our board members donate handmade baby booties towards the prizes. First prize is a gift card tree ($150 in gift cards) plus one pair of handmade baby booties. Second prize is a $100 Co-op gift

card and a size large Toronto Maple Leafs jersey, and third prize is a $25 Tim Hortons gift card and mug and one pair of handmade baby booties.”

Mathison explains.

On top of this fundraiser, the Oxbow Childcare Community Centre is holding a like and share contest on Facebook to spread word of the Christmas fundraiser with that prize winner being drawn Dec. 21, along with the first, second and third

place winners for the raffle.

Tickets for the fundraiser are $5 each and can be purchased by emailing oxbowchildcare@sasktel.net, calling 306-483-5284, or reaching out to a family of a child that attends the centre. With the centre being unable to have visitors currently, they are accepting e-transfers as well.

A picture of ticket stubs and receipt follow with this form of payment.

Don’t drink and drive Don’t text and drive Don’t do drugs and drive

E V I R AR VE ALI Flashback – Wednesday, Dec. 23, 1992 The Students Against Drinking and Driving (SADD) were busy putting their red ribbon symbols on volunteer cars to remind people that with the holiday season ahead, even more attention to be paid to their program that urges people who have consumed alcohol to refrain from driving. From left, Leane vanEverdink, Tammy Driedger, Jill Heath and Natalie Popowich place awareness ribbon on the aerial of the vehicle.

Estevan RCMP will be out in December ensuring safety on the roads The Estevan RCMP invests a lot of time and effort to ensure that the roads in the area are safe. In December, traditionally more attention is paid to impaired driving.

“Into December we do have lots of targeted programs we do and projects.

High-visibility check stops being probably the biggest ones that the public sees when we are out there. So we’ll be doing some of those again this year all through December and into the new year,” said Cpl. Craig Park with the Estevan RCMP. December is SGI Spotlight on Impaired Driving month, and most law enforcement agencies focus on safety on the road during the holiday season.

The Estevan RCMP also does a lot of what they call “roving stops.”

“Lots of travelling, random stops to make sure people are abiding by the rules,” Park explained.

He added that the neighbouring Carlyle RCMP detachment also dedicates a lot of time to battling impaired driving, and two members, Constable Alexa Dubeau and Constable Dani Zara, were recently recognized by Mothers Against Drinking and Driving (MADD) for their efforts.

Park said that the numbers for impaired driving in the Estevan area so far is on par for about a normal year, however, if one were to look closer, there are some changes in the statistics.

“The numbers seem to be in line with past years. I don’t see a whole lot more or less. But what we do see a big change in is, we’ve got probably just about a half of our impaireds related to drugs now,” Park said.

He attributes this new tendency to a further education some of their officers have received in the field testing, which allows them

to recognize the signs of drug impairment.

“The biggest change that we’ve seen this year is to do with drug impairments,” Park said.

So while the numbers, in general, remain on par with previous years, the number of impaired by alcohol cases was a little lower than the Estevan RCMP has seen in the past.

“There are some positive signs there, but of course now there is work to be done in drug impairments,” Park said.

Park added that in the past few years since the new measure was introduced, they’ve seen a lot of threeday suspensions, which occur when drives are not at the chargeable impaired level, but blow a warning, which also comes with significant penalties from SGI. “That seems to be educating those people that are right on that edge, where a couple more drinks could put them in impaired, but they

choose not to. They get one of those, and then people realize that it’s not worth it, just the financial cost associated to it, it’s not worth it,” explained Park, pointing out that this is one of the measures that seem to be working keeping many people from making poor decisions.

“I think a lot of those strict restrictions have certainly helped, as well as the graduated drivers licence (system) teaching the young people, and that (education) is carrying through into their adult lives, which certainly made changes as well.”

The Estevan RCMP also participates in various educational activities. They are partnered with MADD and participate in some of their educational programs.

They also partake in the local impaired drivers’ program, where they go in and educate drivers with recent convictions.

An d w h i l e b a t t l i n g

Corporal Craig Park with the Estevan RCMP. Photo submitted impaired driving is a yearround campaign for local law enforcement agencies, in December they once again remind people to make good choices.

“The biggest message heading into the holiday season is we’ve had lots of

challenges this year, and lots of issues with COVID and other things, with all the restrictions in place, we just wish everybody a safe and happy season. And remember, if you are going to drink, plan ahead and have a ride available,” Park concluded.

Offering occupational health & safety services to SE SK.

Lori Carr, MLA

Drug & Alcohol Testing • Certified Specimen Collector/DNA Collection • Dot Compliance Services • Fitness To Work Testing & RN Medicals • PFT/Spirometry • Respiratory (Maskfit) Testing • Audiometric & Hearing Conservation

Estevan Constituency Office

306.634.7311 loricarrmla@sasktel.net

306-634-9079 • 1101 5th Street • www.seoptions.ca

PLEASE DON'T MAKE US DELIVER ANY MORE BAD NEWS

306.634.5555 | WWW.SKYLIFTSERVICES.COM PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

DR. ROBERT KITCHEN MP 1-866-249-4697

www.drrobertkitchen.ca Member of Parliament | Souris-Moose Mountain

H

O

M

E

S

SHELTER #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK

306-634-7255

A10 December 16, 2020

Kinsmen Christmas trees were in high demand There has been an increase in demand for Christmas trees across the country this year, and the Estevan Kinsmen Club’s Christmas tree lot certainly wasn’t an exception.

The tree lot was located

at the Estevan Canadian Tire from Nov. 23-Dec. 4. It took 12 days for more than 180 trees available to be sold.

Bret Beal from the Kinsemn Club said he wasn’t surprised with how quickly the

trees sold out this year.

“With COVID, there was a lot of people who decided not to leave Estevan, so there’s a lot of households who usually aren’t home, but they decided to stay home this year,” said Beal. “So

Will your stocking stuffers include a

CAREER CHANGE? As you make out your list for Santa this year, does starting your own business top your list? Take control of your future and visit www.southeastbusinessstartup.ca to find out where to start.

Students at Hillcrest School will have a very entertaining finish to the preChristmas portion of the school year, thanks to a virtual talent show to be shown on Dec. 18.

The school has been working on the talent show, with both students and staff members submitting videos. Students as young as kindergarten are participating.

Melissa Gartner, a teacher for the Grade 5 and 6 class at the school, has been tasked with piecing together the videos.

The deadline to prepare a video was Dec. 11, and she spent the weekend bringing it all together.

“They’re really cute,” said Gartner. “There’s a lot of kids

www.southeastbusinessstartup.ca • (306) 634-3895 403-9th Ave (beside Affinity Credit Union) Please note: Office will be closed December 21, 2020 - January 1, 2021.

We will resume regular business hours January 4, 2021.

99 Stocking Stuffer Ideas

• Hair Clip • Hairspray • Hand Sanitizer • Hickory Farms Meat & Cheese • Hot Chocolate • Hot Wheels • Jelly Beans • Keychain • Kitchen Gadget • Lego • Lotion • Lottery Ticket • Magazines • Makeup • Makeup Bag • Makeup Blender Sponge • Makeup Brushes • Makeup Mirror • Manicure Set • Metal Straw • Mini Spirograph • Mints • Mitts • Moisturizer • NHL Games • Nail Polish • Necklace • Notebook • Nuts • Ornaments • Passport Wallet • Perfume • Placemat

The Kinsmen Christmas Tree lot at Canadian Tire sold out in less than two weeks. Photo submitted this year and the last couple of years where usually the four to six-foot trees sell out first, and then you’re left with a couple of 12-footers or even a 14-footer at the end of the year,” said Beal.

Customers were really into the Christmas spirit, too. The Kinsmen saw a lot of young families with their kids, which made this year even more enjoyable.

“A lot of the parents said ‘Pick out a tree, pick out any tree.’ And some of the kids would pick out the big ones, and

some of the kids were wanting the little Charlie Brown style Christmas tree, so it was neat to see.”

The money raised through the Christmas tree sales will stay in the community.The Kinsmen have a high standard for the park they support in the Hillside subdivision, and they have committed to a couple of project at the Estevan Comprehensive School.

“Serving the community’s greatest needs is where the money is going to go,” said Beal.

Hillcrest students bring many abilities to virtual talent show

• Consultation & Support • Business Planning • Co-Working Space • Resource Centre • Grant Writing Support

• Air Puck • Apron • Artificial Succulent • Bath Bomb • Bath Salts • Bath Toy • Blankets • Board Game • Body Wash • Book • Bracelets • Brush • Bubble Bath • Candles • Care Bear • Cell Phone Charger • Chapstick • Checkers • Chocolates • Christmas Candy • Christmas Ornament • Coffee • Coffee Mug • Cologne • Colouring Book • Craft Kit • Diamond Dots • Earrings • Essential Oils • Eyeglass Repair Kit • Face Mask • False Eyelashes • Games • Gift Card • Gum

the input that I got from a lot of people was this year was the year to get a real tree.”

While it would have been nice to have more trees, because they would have been able to satisfy more people, the Kinsmen also didn’t know what to expect for this year.

“The supply wasn’t there,” said Beal. “We couldn’t order more if we wanted to. Because of the order that we did place, our supplier actually wasn’t able to fulfill orders for other communities around here.”

It’s also nice that they sold out, rather than having a lot of really nice Christmas trees that didn’t get sold.

Beal was pleased with the quality of this year’s trees.

“The Frasers are a very beautiful colour. The big ones went relatively fast, which, in previous years, the big trees are the last ones to go,” said Beal.

“It was kind of interesting to see the difference between

• Playdough • Playing Cards • Popcorn • Putty • Puzzle • Puzzle Brix • Razor • Scrunchie • Shampoo & Conditioner • Shaving Cream • Slime • Socks • Soother • Soup Mix • Sparkle Ball Earrings • Stickers • Stuffed Animal • Sudoko • Surprise Toy • Table Top Cornhole • Tea • Toothbrush • Toque • Trivia Game • Wallet • Watch • Water Bottle • Wine Glass • Wine Stopper • Word Search

1239 5th Street • 306-637-3802

playing musical instruments and singing songs. It’s very adorable.”

But there has been some non-conventional entertainment. One kid did a time-lapse drawing of a really cool picture.

A family recreated a World Wrestling Entertainment experience at home. And one staff member created a music video.

“Some of the kids have been telling me all week about their practice schedule, because they’ve been performing or singing, and they wanted to get it just right. They spent a lot of time outside of school working on their skills,” she said.

Gartner has a master’s degree in educational technology,

including film and film editing.

At each school where she has worked, there has been a lot of video work, so she’s well-versed in the technology to bring the talent show together.

There is a competitive element to the talent show as well, and prizes will be handed out at the end for each age group.

They expect to have enough segments and acts to have a full slate of entertainment in the afternoon.

“It should be a good way to bring the whole school together virtually. We don’t get to see each other in person anymore, just on Teams.

So it’s something fun to do,” Gartner said.

Energy

• Gasoline • Diesel • Bulk Fuel • Propane • Fuel Tanks & Pumps • Lubricants & Grease • Lubrication Storage & Equipment Solutions • DEF • Solvent www.girardbulk.ca • (306) 637-4370

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A11

Oilfield companies team up to support Estevan Angel Tree

By Brian Zinchuk, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The COVID-19 crisis hit the oilpatch hard, with oil prices going into negative terri-

tory briefly in April and drilling coming to an absolute standstill.

While oil prices and activity have slowly clawed their way back, it has been the toughest year in memory for the sector.

In oilpatch communities

like Estevan, energy companies are often among the most generous when it comes to supporting community groups.

But being as hard hit as they’ve been, it’s been difficult to do so.

Danny Blackburn of

From left, Shelley Dayman, Jolie Bayda, Danny Blackburn and Char Seeman met on the steps of St. Giles Anglican Church to pass on numerous cheques from Estevan oilfield companies to the Estevan Community Hamper Association and Angel Tree. Dayman, Bayda and Seeman are on the committee, while Blackburn made the presentation. Photo submitted

CANADA’S

1

#

• • • • • Serving Southeast Saskatchewan for 38 years • • •

FINANCIAL

CANADA’S #1 PLAN

Blackburn Well Service and Chris Scholpp of Red Line Well Service Ltd., both Estevan oilfield companies, decided to do something about it.

“We thought it would be a good idea this Christmas, seeing that everything is kind of down in the economy, and we knew the Angel Tree would be hurting more than ever for donations,” Blackburn said, referring to Estevan Community Hamper Association and its Angel Tree program.

“Everybody's getting affected by this, right? So, unfortunately the Angel Tree is hurting and they're hurting … because the guys that are willing to donate, maybe their businesses are running 25 per cent of what it was.

“So, Chris and I figured we would team up and we would ask all our oilfield vendors that we do work closely with to see if they would be interested in donating to the Angel Tree.

And we had an unbelievable response. Anytime the oilfield is called upon is, it's always good.

We see the oilfield always seems to back this community.”

The total donations came

to $16,950, and the cheques were presented on Dec. 10.

The donors, based in Estevan, Lampman and Frobisher, included F&L Concrete, R&R Tank Rentals, Border Insulators, Grimes Sales & Service, Hadco Services, Blackburn Well Service, Hutt’s Trucking, Thunder Oilfield Construction, Red Line Well Service, C&R Oilfield Maintenance, TS&M Supply, Premier Safety, AC Power, PTW Canada, Vermilion Energy, Dart Services, Apex Distribution and Ironside Energy Services.

Jolie Bayda, one of the members of the hamper association committee, said their program provides Christmas hampers which include a turkey

and all the fixings, plus additional food. Children receive a toy, mitts and toques through the Angel Tree, and the Estevan Kinettes give every kid a set of pyjamas.

“It was amazing,” she said.

“We were just blown away. It'll help a lot of people. You know, we were speechless. We appreciate the hard, hard work that went into it, especially in such a tough time with a recession and a pandemic. You know, it wasn't an easy feat, and they blew us away.”

Also, long-time Estevan oilfield company McGillicky Oilfield Construction dropped by recently to donate $4,000 to the hamper association to help with their efforts.

• Fire Extinguisher Sales, Services & Rentals • Gas Detection Sales, Services & Rentals • Breathing Air Refills & Hydro Testing • SCBA/SABA Equipment Sales & Services • Rentals • Fit Testing • Safety Air Trailers & Safety Personnel • Calibration Gases & Accessories Sales • New & Reconditioned Equipment • First Aid, Eyewash & Burn Kit Services • Signage • Safety Glasses, Gloves & Hearing Protection • Gastec & Rae Pumps/H2S Detection Tubes

CRANES & TRUCKING

All types of hoisting-tip heights to 350’ 15 – 245 Ton Mobile & R.T. Cranes 27 – 45 Ton Pickers 15 Ton Carrydeck - 3.2 Ton Mini Crawler Tractor Trailer Units Pile Drivers, Telehandler Office Trailer Rentals Manbaskets & Concrete Buckets

FOR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CHAMBERPLAN.CA

Authorized Sales & Service & Warranty Centre for:

CORY CASEMORE 403B 9TH AVENUE, ESTEVAN, SK S4A 2V4 PH: (306) 634-7979 TOLL FREE: (877) 770-0948 INFO@SPECTRAFINANCIAL.CA

Frontier Place, Estevan

306-634-5555

Troye Carson • 306-421-3603

Preston Majeran • 306-421-6609

tcarsonsafety@sasktel.net

www.skyliftservices.com

pmajeransafety@sasktel.net

Highway 361 West (South Yard), P.O. Box 518, Lampman, SK, S0C 1N0

THE ESTEVAN MERCURY DRILLING REPORT We specialize in moving drilling rigs and other oil rig related equipment.

BUY MORE SAVE MORE Buy 2 Kitchen Appliances, SAVE $100 Buy 3+ Kitchen Appliances, SAVE $300

Carnduff, SK

306-482-3244

Pricing valid December 17- January 6

www.fasttruckingservice.com MOVING THE OIL & GAS INDUSTRY IN SASKATCHEWAN

SALE

Drilling Licenses

TRUE CONVECTION RANGE True convection uses a powerful third heating element and a sturdy fan to circulate even temperatures for more consistent roasting and baking. YMER8800FZ

4 new licenses issued to Monday, December 13 Torc Oil Hz.............................................................................................................. 2-36-7-31

172444

Triland Hz............................................................................................................... 13-16-7-4

172484

Allied Hz............................................................................................................... 15-35-5-16

170204

Tundra Hz............................................................................................................... 12-19-2-4

Rig Report

22 CU. FT. FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATOR 33” W. Made with heavy-duty components and features that deliver the right kind of cold exactly where it’s needed.

MFI2269FRZ

2098

$

SALE

171740

1148

$

149192 Horizon.................................. Crescent Point....................................................... 14-27-9-8 170892 Horizon.................................. Petroleum-Lin..................................................... 16-32-4-20

145748 Precision................................ Crescent Point........................................................... 1-3-9-7

598

$

1298

$

SALE

168407 Precision................................ Crescent Point......................................................... 2-29-8-5

SALE

168330 Precision................................ Crescent Point........................................................... 4-9-9-8

848

SALE

$

STAINLESS TUB DISHWASHER Adaptive Wash technology automatically adjusts wash and drysettings to deliver the ideal clean for every load.

WDF560SAFM

ESTEVAN’S SOURCE FOR LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS

SELF CLEAN RANGE A shatter-resistant cooktop and heavy-duty door hinges help ensure that these ranges are built to last for years.

YMER6600FW

19 CU. FT. FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATOR 33” W. Frozen foods are organized and quickly visible with the slideout drawer style freezer door.

MBB1957FEW

Highway 39 East, Estevan 306-634-4775 sholterandhorsman.ca

5TH STREET AUTOBODY

Sports

Don’t Cuss! Call US

306-634-7101

601 - 5th St. • Estevan, SK

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A12

Hunter Eagles to play university football close to home

By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Hunter Eagles is going to play his university football close to home.

Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football (EMF) announced Dec. 7 that Eagles has committed to play for the University of Regina (U of R) Rams for the 2021 season as a defensive back.

“It honestly felt like a great fit,” Eagles told the Mercury. “I’ve had coaches from there, like their positional coach (Ventson Donelson) coached me before, and I think he’s a great coach, who can hopefully take me pretty far in my career. So I trust in him a lot, and I felt pretty comfortable with that decision.”

Donaldson, the defensive backs coach with the Rams, played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 1991-2000.

Eagles said he also wanted to stay relatively close to home for his

university football. He was looking to play in Canada West, and was thrilled to commit to the Rams.

He expects to study kinesiology in university.

Eagles started playing in the EMF as a member of the peewee Chargers program a few years ago, and played all of his developmental football in Estevan, ending with the Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs. In his Grade 11 year in 2019, he was selected by the coaches in the Moose Jaw Minor Football League as the league’s top defensive player.

He has played and adapted to many positions on the football field during his time in Estevan, including running back, linebacker, receiver, punt returner and kickoff returner.

“Without football in Estevan, I never would have had any of these opportunities, so I really appreciate everyone that’s been there supporting me throughout all of it,” said Eagles, who is particularly grateful

to his coaches.

Eagles has demonstrated his gratitude by assisting the coaches in the EMF for the past three years.

In the offseason, Eagles has been part of the Sask. Selects football program, and has competed at the Pigskin Classic in San Antonio, Texas, winning numerous awards.

It was with the Sask. Selects that he encountered Donelson.

“I owe a lot to those coaches who are already university coaches and junior coaches,” said Eagles. “It just helps a lot. It gets you a step ahead of everybody else who didn’t do that, because you already know lots of stuff that they do teach at university.”

Eagles said he had been speaking with a number of other schools but COVID limited his opportunities to showcase his abilities.

“I’m so grateful, and the U of R is such a great school, and I’m happy I can go there, but there were some other schools I was talking to as well, so it would have been nice

to see if anything possibly came to fruition there, or have somewhere else,” said Eagles. “But I’m still really happy with my choice at U of R, and I know those guys will do a great job.”

He was concerned that COVID would cost him a chance to get a scholarship for next season, but if he didn’t get a scholarship, he would have played junior football for a year to reach out to college coaches.

Eagles said he loves the physical element of the sport, something lacking in most other games.

“I love the team element of it,” said Eagles. “The guys are always so close at the end of the year. It’s always a super sad time to see everybody leave, all the seniors leave, but during that season you’re all super close with each other.”

He expects he’ll need to work Estevan’s Hunter Eagles has on his speed to trim his 40-yard committed to play for the University dash time, and he has some technical things to work on between now of Regina Rams in 2021. Photo and the start of next season. submitted

Figure skaters are making progress this season The emphasis for the Estevan Figure Skating Club has been on practise, progress and skills development this season.

Members of the figure skating club can be found practising at Affinity Place on a nightly basis. They’re able to keep meeting, as long as there are no more than eight skaters on the ice at a time, they maintain adequate social distancing and they are wearing masks.

Janice Grocholski, who has been the head coach of the figure skating club for 30 years, said they have approximately 25 skaters in the different levels of figure skating.

“It’s a nice outlet for them,

just to come and skate, and, of course, they’re skating with masks now, which they’re not really finding any problem with that. They’re happy and excited to get to the rink, to see their friends, and to burn off some steam and some energy, and just to have something they’re focusing on,” said Grocholski.

The club also has its Canskate program, which is an entry level program offered three times a week with about 50 skaters.

Earlier this season, they were allowed to have 30 people on the ice, including their coaches and helpers, so they opened up a third night for

CanSkate. Kids would be on the ice once or twice a week.

CanSkate has been placed on hold until after Christmas, because now they’re only allowed eight skaters on the ice at once, and the kids wouldn’t get the necessary ice time.

“Our figure skaters would have to give up a lot of ice if we were to do that, too, because even in our figure skater groups, having only eight, we had to change our schedule in order to accommodate that.”

Grocholski is hopeful that government regulations will change, so that they can resume CanSkate in the new year.

“I felt very confident that

we ran a really safe program, but of course we have to follow provincial guidelines, as well as the guidelines by Skate Canada,” she said.

The club won’t have any competitions this year. The highest levels of the sport will have events, but Grocholski noted even those might occur in arenas with footage sent in.

“The kids are benefitting from this because rather than using our time to focus on

preparing for competitions and stuff, we’re just totally jumping right into learning new skills.

Lots of skills, lots of practise and mostly just focusing on advancement.”

Grocholski can see the progress that has been made.

“It’s always nice to have that little time, because usually this time of year is when we really would start focusing all of our coaching and on-ice work more towards doing our

programs and just refining the skills we have, because those are the ones we present at competition.”

This should result in stronger figure skaters by the end of the season, who will be ready for the following campaign.

Also involved are Emily Hanson with CanSkate and a coach in training in Ashley Piper. Grocholski said the coaches have done well this season in preparing the kids.

Give Yourself the Gift of Better Hearing WE OFFER:

Full Hearing Tests Hearing Aids & Repairs 60 Day Trial Period Batteries Assistive Listening Devices 3rd Party Billing Ear Wax Removal

Landon Woodruff BC-HIS* *Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences

#130-1175 Nicholson Road, Estevan 306-634-0193 • dunlophearing@gmail.com

APARTMENTS FOR RENT APARTMENTS FOR RENT APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Fridge Fridge &Fridge stove & stove 1 AND 2 BEDROOM Fridge &&stove stove 111AND 2 BEDROOM AND 2 BEDROOM AND 2 BEDROOM Dishwasher Dishwasher Dishwasher Dishwasher Microwave Microwave APARTMENTS AVAILABLE Microwave APARTMENTS APARTMENTSAVAILABLE AVAILABLE Microwave APARTMENTS AVAILABLE Central air • • • • • • • • • •

• •

Check usCheck out onusus facebook out Check outononfacebook facebook Check us out on facebook

Call for details aboutabout our our Call for Call fordetails details about our Call for details about our

• • •

Central • Centralair air Central air • Washer / Dryer Dryer Washer • Washer Washer // /Dryer Dryer •

CROSSWORD ANSWER

From left, Madzia Szlapacka, Izzy Fonstad, Taryn Bohn, Bailey Baumgartner and McKenna Bohn have been working on their skills with the Estevan Figure Skating Club. Photo submitted

•

If hearing difficulties have made holiday gatherings less enjoyable for you over the years, let us help!

* References requiredrequired * *References References required * References required * no dogs allowed * *nonodogs dogsallowed allowed * no dogs allowed

MOVE-IN INCENTIVE MOVE-IN INCENTIVE MOVE-IN INCENTIVE MOVE-IN INCENTIVE

HILLSIDE CONDOMINIUMS HILLSIDE CONDOMINIUMS HILLSIDE CONDOMINIUMS 306-634-6030 • thirsch@sasktel.net 306-634-6030 • thirsch@sasktel.net 306-634-6030••thirsch@sasktel.net thirsch@sasktel.net 306-634-6030

BE READY FOR WINTER. • Auto Collision, Body Repair and Painting, SGI Accredited Elite Bodyshop • Factory Scheduled Maintenance • Tune Ups & Oil Changes • Servicing all makes & models.

• SGI Appraisals • Courtesy Vehicles Available • Winter tires

118 Souris Ave. N. Estevan 306-634-3696 | www.senchuk.com

Offering free pick up and delivery of your vehicle!

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 A13

Co-op’s Estevan grocery store adds to online presence The Southern Plains Co-op has expanded its online offering for its Estevan grocery store.

Carol McKay, the human resources manager for the co-op, said Federated Co-op Ltd. has developed an online shopping program, and Southern Plains signed up for it from the outset for the Estevan location.

Everything in the store is now available, including alcohol, and she compared the online shopping experience to walking down the aisle and searching for and finding the things they are looking for.

“People can go on the shop.crs website, and literally shop the store. All the products that are available, if you walked into the building, are available online, and you literally go through and pick what you want,” said McKay. It will then be ready for pickup at the time you specify.

The co-op has been testing this system for a while, and it launched in Estevan a couple of weeks ago. McKay noted the staff has been using it as well, as they will pick out their products from the pickup spot at the end of their shift.

The response from the public has exceeded their expectations.

“It’s now overtaking the delivery service, where we’ve got more orders coming in through the shopping online rather than the delivery option.”

Young families, with the adults between the ages of 30 and 40, are most likely to use this option, which isn’t a surprise for the co-op, as it follows a trend they’ve seen when studying statistics from other sectors.

The co-op implemented a delivery option for its cus-

tomers at the start of the pandemic for those who didn’t want to go out and enter a store. The delivery initiative is still available for co-op customers, but McKay said the new online shopping experience would have happened regardless of whether they have the delivery program.

Online shopping is becoming a growing service for co-ops, and Southern Plains received assistance to get the programming in place.

“They have launched it quite successfully in other markets, so we just signed up for it, said it’s something we want here, and got in the lineup, and now we’re accessing and using it,” said McKay. According to the shop. crs website, Estevan is just the third city in the province to have this option, along with Regina and Saskatoon.

Most of the co-op’s customers still come into the store to shop. The co-op is busy with those who still prefer to shop in person.

“With Christmas picking up, we’re busy with that aspect of it and now that we have the online shopping aspect of it, that’s added a new line to us and a new service,” said McKay. She expects that shopping needs for Christmas have changed due to COVID, so people have opted for online shopping rather than dealing with the crowds.

A decision has yet to be made on whether this program will be expanded to their food stores in Carlyle and Oxbow. It will depend on how successful it is in Estevan, because there is a lot of work required with such a venture.

“If it’s very successful, I would think we will look at it,” said McKay.

From the Desk of Lori Carr - December 16, 2020 In a tough year, there is the good news Saskatchewan people can look forward to – a vaccine for the COVID-19 pandemic will be available in the coming weeks. This does not, however, suggest that it is time to ease up and become less disciplined in our approach to preventing its spread. We all have a role to play in slowing the transmission of this virus and our government continues its work to ensure that resources are available to our health care providers. We continue to ask that you to follow public health orders and frequently wash your hands, practice physical distancing, wear a mask and stay home if you have symptoms.

Your cooperation with public health orders, along with direction from Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer, our province will continue to weather this storm.

With the announcement of Saskatchewan’s vaccine rollout plan, the people of our province can feel encouraged for the future. We have worked closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada and will be ready to administer the COVID-19 vaccine once the first shipment is received. The Vaccine Delivery Plan is a phased approach that will begin vaccinating residents this month. The first phase will be delivered to approximately 1,950 people at Regina General Hospital. Those eligible for the vaccine include health care workers in ICUs, Emergency Departments and COVID Units at the Regina General and Pasqua Hospitals, as well as staff at testing and assessment centres.

This pilot will be delivered in two doses, with the second vaccination being administered 21 days following the administration of the first.

Also included in this first phase are elderly residents in care homes, seniors over 80 and residents in northern remote communities.

Keeping our most vulnerable populations protected has always been a priority, and I am encouraged to see that they will be at the front of the line for these vaccination deliveries.

The second phase of the Vaccine Delivery Plan is anticipated to begin in April 2021. We will continue to immunize priority populations while providing the vaccine to our general population.

At this time, distribution will move to public health clinics and other vaccination delivery sites in the province.

While we are well on our way to provide safe vaccines once they arrive, there is still more work to do. Our government is committed to keeping the public up to date with accurate information on the status of the COVID-19 vaccine and delivery. For more information on our Vaccine Delivery Plan, please visit www. saskatchewan.ca/COVID19-vaccine.

As we see increased COVID-19 cases Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is moving forward with its surge plan to meet the expected demand for patients. Service slow downs will support the redeployment of up to 600 full-time equivalent staff to aid in our response to the pandemic.

This surge plan will create capacity for 64 COVID patients requiring ICU care by midDecember. It will also create capacity for those requiring inpatient hospitalization, as well as capacity for contact tracing to keep pace with the projected demand. To help our frontline workers, please limit your social bubble as much as possible.

Redeploying our services on this scale will facilitate a service slow down to maintain an appropriate balance between the urgent needs of the pandemic response and the need for Saskatchewan residents to have access to everyday health services. The SHA and its partners have a targeted approach to minimize patient, client and resident impact while maximizing the ability to mobilize full-time staff to other areas.

It is crucial that we act now and ensure those in need receive the help that they need. By ensuring our existing capacity does not become overwhelmed, this timely slow-down has the potential to help us provide critical care for both COVID and non-COVID patients.

Soon, one hundred made-in-Saskatchewan ventilators will be available to support the needs of our province’s residents. These ventilators are being made as part of a collaboration between the University of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and RMD Engineering Inc. based out of Saskatoon.

The President of RMD Engineering was inspired by his daughter to develop ways to assist our health care system. She is a nurse at the Royal University Hospital and knows firsthand how important this equipment is, especially to someone who may be suffering from the virus. We are grateful for their dedication to develop a Saskatchewan-made solution to support the needs of patients.

As always, for more information on the current public health measures, visit www.saskatchewan. ca/covid19 or call my office at 306-634-7311.

Lori Carr, MLA Estevan Constituency Office

306.634.7311

loricarrmla@sasktel.net

y t i n u m m Co D R A O B N I T E L BUL Gift Card Fundraiser

Choose Life Ministry & Estevan’s Second Chance Thrift Store is hosting a gift card fundraiser to help raise money for women in need.

All Gift Card’s were Donated or Purchased from Local Businesses in Estevan.

Tickets can be purchased at Estevan’s Second Chance Thrift Store.

1Ticket for $5.00 or 3 Tickets for $10.00 Draw Date: December 18, 2020

Brought to you by:

Estevan Market Mall Holiday Hours

chooselifeministry.ca

Truck Raffle Royal Canadian Legion Win a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, $10,000 cash, $5000 cash

Draw Date: December 31, 2020 $100/Ticket Get tickets at Murray GM or the Legion

“Where community happens”

Monday - Friday 9 am - 9 pm Saturday 9 am - 6 pm

Kin Canada

Estevan Kinsmen Club

Chase the Ace

Estevan Kinsmen Club Every Thursday night @ 6:00pm at the Black Grasshopper

Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm Don’t forget to visit our Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 9am - 2pm

The Estevan Shoppers Mall is now the • Ardene • Dollarama • Eclipse • Marks • Money Mart

• Nutters • Peavey Mart • Pet Valu • Sask Liquor • SaskTel

• Sobeys • SportChek • Star Gift • Studio C Fitness • The Brick

• The Source • Tim Horton’s • Warehouse One LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

400 King Street

Agri News A14

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Land auction by Benson resulted in some great numbers

By Ana Bykhovskaia

abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

Mack Auction Company held another successful land sale in early December.

Six quarter sections of land in the RM of Benson went for a great deal of money on Dec. 4. The total for the online timed auction was $1.75 million.

"The auction was strong," said Norm Mack with Mack Auction. "Demand for good farmland in Saskatchewan is good and it's increasing in value."

Mack pointed out that for a long time farmland in Saskatchewan was undervalued in comparison to other Prairie provinces, and it's finally starting to get where it's supposed to be.

"Our neighbouring provinces, Alberta and Manitoba, have seen higher land prices and people are starting to realize that, and that's why we see the increase of land.

Also, in farming there have been some pretty good years.

Farming seems to be aligned and strong in Saskatchewan and Western Canada, and therefore land is increasing in value," Mack said.

"Another reason that we can see land values are in-

creasing is that current interest rates are very low. Some people with cash might feel that owning land is a better investment than having money in the bank. Or if they were to finance, it's pretty good finance rates now."

Two quarters sold by David Schell went as one package. The other four were the estate of Anne Schwab.

The land was sold by timed online bidding, and the auction lasted five days.

"Some of the quarters broke the $300,000 mark and sold for $321,000, $307,000 and $304,000, something like that," Mack said. "We are seeing farmland creep up to that $300,000 a quarter."

Mack Auctions have been holding online timed land and equipment sales almost since the beginning of the pandemic. And while in the first months there might have been some doubts, the following days have proved that the online format was a way to go.

"All our auctions for farm equipment and farmland are timed online, so there are no gatherings at all. And it's proven to be very good. This is probably one of our strongest years in 15 years," Mack said.

MErry

Christmas from our family to yours

Percy H. Davis Limited

Mack Auction Company sold six quarter sections of land in the RM of Benson. Photo submitted The online format allows for more people from other areas to participate in sales. Besides, the prices in the agricultural sector, whether it's equipment or farmland, have been strong all year.

Mack Auction Company was already set up for online sales even before the pandemic, so when CO-

VID-19 hit Saskatchewan, it was an easy transition for them.

"Our software works good and people seem to like it, they don't have to travel.

And we are seeing more bidders and stronger prices."

The Benson land sale was a very active one with almost 800 bids placed.

The company also just

To m a h a w k E n e r g y S er vices has announced proposed plans to build a unique indoor agriculture facility in the city of Estevan, with construction

planned for the spring of 2021.

“This is not an ordinary greenhouse,” said Derrick Big Eagle, CEO at Tomahawk Energy Services. “This

UPCOMING TIMED

Estevan (306) 634-3434

ONLINE AUCTIONS

Customs Brokers, Import Specialist and Consultants

www.mackauctioncompany.com Large Farm Equipment Auction: Blaine & Michelle Messer

Estevan, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 5, 2021

Premium Farm Equipment Auction: Firth Farms Ltd. (Wayne & June Firth)

Lori Carr, MLA A

Carievale, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 10, 2021

306.634.7311

Farm Equipment Auction

SK Farms & Ranches

loricarrmla@sasktel.net

KIPLING - 148 ACRES: 60’S BUNGALOW W/ ADDITION AND ATTACHED GARAGE, ON HWY. #48, GOODEN SHED

Storthoaks, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 12, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction: Vic & Dave Huish (Huish Bros.)

Gainsborough, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 15, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction:

NEW WINDTHORST - 43.7 ACRES: 1310 SQ FT HOME, DOUBLE DET. GARAGE, SHOP, NEW BARN, CORRALS

Lumsden, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 17, 2021

PHONE: (306) 569-3380

LANE REALTY

Saskatchewan’s Farm & Ranch Specialists™ PH: 306-569-3380 EMAIL: lanerealtycorp@sasktel.net WITH OVER 39 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS!

www.lanerealty.com

Stay up to date with

BREAKING NEWS at:

ESTEVANMERCURY.CA

design and larger scope, along with the concept plan, has the potential to address food insecurity issues throughout our province, as well as nationally and internationally.”

Evolution Growers is a new company under the Tomahawk Energy Services umbrella. The plans for this facility include world-class geothermal and solar technology.

Industry leading robotics and other technology are currently in the design stage. This technology will be used for the day-to-day operations.

From entry level to robotics specialists, it is estimated this project will create

substantial jobs for Estevan and surrounding areas.

City manager Jeff Ward says it’s exciting to see diverse business opportunities coming to the Energy City.

“Our economic development board has been working hard to foster an environment that encourages new and unique businesses to open in Estevan.

Projects like this will play an integral part of our economy's success in the future,” Ward said.

Evolution Growers hopes to establish itself as a sustainable business for the City of Estevan and surrounding area and looks to provide new markets and employment opportunities.

Fred & Shirley Simpson

STOUGHTON - 120 ACRES: 91 CULT. ACRES, LOCATED DIRECTLY ADJACENT TO STOUGHTON

For all your buying or selling needs contact Jason Beutler

almost fully booked as early as mid-December. The other auctions were also being booked well into 2021.

"All auctions will be timed online. That way there is no question, they can go ahead no matter how COVID is. While we are (still fighting with) COVID, they'll be all online," Mack said.

Indoor agriculture facility announced for Estevan

Head Office | North Portal (306) 927-2165

Estevan Constituency Officee

finished a sale up in Arran and is currently working on expanding their reach on farmland and farm equipment.

"We like to think that we are sort of leading the country in the land auctions," Mack said.

April, a month traditionally dedicated to farm equipment sales, was already

Randy & Kathy Luhning

Farm Equipment Auction:

Sharon Fox & The Estate of Joe Fox Manor, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 24, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction: Harvey & Barbara Hemphill Stoughton, Saskatchewan Sale Opens: April 26, 2021

Thinking of selling the farm?

Have equipment to sell?

Call Mack Auction Company for your consultation today.

306.634.9512 • P.L. 311962

Best Wishes for the Christmas Season A blanket of snow covers the ground, the feeling of Christmas is all around.

At every moment and in every way, we hope it’s a wonderful holiday.

With Our Thanks,

Rural Municipality of Coalfields No. 4 423 Main St., Bienfait, SK • 306-388-2330

From my family to yours, wishing you joy and peace this holiday season. Trusting the New Year brings hope of promising days ahead.

Merry Christmas!

Dr. Robert Kitchen

1-866-249-4697 www.drrobertkitchen.ca

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 A15

City Hall: 1102 4th Street 8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1800 Leisure Office: 701 Souris Avenue 8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1880

A Message From The Mayor As we get ready for Christmas Holidays please continue to shop local, which will boost our local economy and benefits everyone!

QUOTE REQUIREMENT

The City of Estevan, Parks Department invites your company to submit a sealed quote to SUwPPLY AND DELIVER OF FLOWERS for our flower beds within the City of Estevan for the spring planting of 2021. The opening of the quote will take place on January 14, 2021 at 1:30 CST to a zoom meeting due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Substitution need to be listed in the final quote. If no specific type or color is indicated please use the best type suited for that location.

Criteria: Delivery Date of Tuesday May 25, 2021 at 9:00 am at the City of Estevan Maintenance Yard.

Unloading of product is the responsibility of the Company.

Flowers to be in Full Bloom by June 15, 2021.

Warranty must include, at the time of arrival the plants must be sturdy, healthy and have flowering buds or have started to bloom. Any weak plants that die in the first two weeks must be replaced.

In the quote please Include: Price of Flowers.

If the greenhouse doesn’t carry the exact species or type of flower, please indicated the type or species it will replace. So new color or species can be changed in the planting diagrams.

Shipping and Handling. If shipping is not available, please indicate that in your quote price.

Warranty.

Quotes must be submitted in writing to City Hall no later than January 14, 2021 at 1:30 pm CST. Mailing Address: City of Estevan, 1102 4th Street, Estevan, SK, S4A 0W7 - Attn: Shannon Wanner – 2021 Flower Quote For more information and list of flowers please contact: Shannon Wanner, Parks Foreperson, 306-634-1833, Parks.foreman@estevan.ca

RECREATION SCHEDULE MONDAY DECEMBER 21 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE GRIT 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM EASY STRETCH 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM SPIN 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM SPIN/CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM FAMILY SKATE 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM TUESDAY DECEMBER 22 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SPIN 6:30 PM - 7:10 PM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 23 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Please help keep our sidewalks safe so all citizens can enjoy a safe walk assage Bylaw 2016-1963 The occupier of property in the City of Estevan shall remove any snow, ice or other obstruction from the public sidewalk adjacent to such property within twenty-four (24) hours of the time such snow, ice or other obstruction appears on such public sidewalk.

EFFECTIVE - DECEMBER 21, 2020 JANUARY 31, 2021

FITNESS SCHEDULE CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 AM - 10:15 AM FOAM ROLLER 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SKATING SCHEDULE TWINKLE SKATE 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM • 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM THURSDAY DECEMBER 24 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 A M - 9:50 AM SPIN 10:15 AM - 10:55 AM SKATING SCHEDULE PRESCHOOL PUCK TIME 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM SATURDAY DECEMBER 26 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM SUNDAY DECEMBER 27 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM PRIVATE RENTAL WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM MONDAY DECEMBER 28 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM

Don’t see what you are looking for? Do you have an idea for something we should try?

Please contact the Recreation Program Manager at 306-634-1880. We would love to hear your ideas!

Bylaw

A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE GRIT 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM EASY STRETCH 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM SPIN 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM SPIN/CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM FAMILY SKATE 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM TUESDAY DECEMBER 29 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SPIN 6:30 PM - 7:10 PM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 30 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 AM - 10:15 AM FOAM ROLLER 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM THURSDAY DECEMBER 31 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:15 AM - 10:55 AM FRIDAY JANUARY 1 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM SATURDAY JANUARY 2 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM SUNDAY JANUARY 3 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM

Schedule Subject to Change. Please visit www.estevan.ca for updates on closures and cancellations. Proper footwear and exercise wear is required to participate. Please note during school breaks, (Teachers Conventions, Spring Breaks and Christmas Breaks) Fitness, Aquatic Centre and arena schedules may vary. Please visit our live schedules at www.estevan.ca

Classifieds

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A16

Obituaries

In MeMorIaM Agnes Selk 1925 – 2020

After a long life of faith, courage, love, and laughter, Agnes Mary Miilller Selk passed peacefully on December 2, 2020, in Red Deer.

Born to Raphael and Pauline (Butchko) Miiller on March 19, 1925 in Lampman, Saskatchewan, Agnes lost her mother at a young age but was fortunate to have her older brothers, most especially Chris, step up to help raise their little sister. As a young girl among brothers, Agnes loved sports and proudly kept up with the boys. Her love of sport carried on throughout her life, with a special enthusiasm for curling. She also loved to dance and fondly recalled the community dances that were part of her early adult years.

In 1947, Agnes married Ben Selk. Together, they raised their three daughters, Elaine, Evonne (Neil), and Tammy (Brian), on their farm in Benson, Saskatchewan. In 1975, Ben and Agnes decided to retire, so they sold the farm and moved to Estevan, Saskatchewan where they enjoyed time with family and friends. Traveling during the early years of their retirement created many interesting experiences and fond memories.

In 1990, they moved to Red Deer where they quickly became part of a new community through their church. Shortly after their move, Ben’s health started to deteriorate, leaving Agnes to navigate the challenging waters of being a long-term caregiver, which she did with unwavering love and compassion until his death in April 2005.

Agnes was a strong woman, with a fierce love for her family and a keen sense of humour. She loved music and many a morning started with her whistling away as she sat sewing. She also excelled at knitting, gardening, cooking, and baking.

Agnes was an amazing grandmother to Nadine (Ted), Richelle (David), Jason (Dawn), Jenna (Tristan), and Kyle (Anna), and she delighted in the addition of great-grandchildren Benjamin, Jaiden, Owen, Zachary, Isla, Eli, and Phoebe.

Thank You

Special thanks to the skilled and caring staff at Michener Hill Extendicare – our family deeply appreciates the support you provided to Agnes in the final years of her life. We would also like to thank Phyllis Kober and Elaine Nye for their steadfast and loyal friendship.

There will be a memorial service in Estevan, Saskatchewan when circumstances allow us to gather to celebrate Agnes’ life. Those wishing to make a donation in her memory may do so to the charity of their choice.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.reddeerfuneralhome.com

HOUSDORFF, Stanley Nov. 19, 1930 – Dec. 5, 2020 It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of Stan, our beloved husband, father and grandfather. Stan was predeceased by his parents; his first wife Martha; and his three brothers. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Jean; his two daughters Linda and Cathy; granddaughters; and the loving Carr step-family of daughters, sons, granddaughters and great-grandchildren.

Stan’s family wishes to thank the staff at the Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home for their kindness, and loving and compassionate care, especially during Stan’s final week. Donations in Stan’s memory made to the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, 301-2550 12th Avenue, Regina, SK S4P 3X1 will be greatly appreciated. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com

Announcements Ivan Roy Callfas 1926 – 2020 Following a lengthy illness, Ivan Roy Callfas, aged 94, passed away on December 2, 2020 at Chateau St. Michael Care Home in Moose Jaw. He was predeceased by his wife, Helen, his parents and his siblings.

Ivan will be missed by his children: Elaine (John) Parsons, Gary Callfas, Sandra (Cornelius) Van Hal, Brian Callfas and Noreen (Byrant) Wright; his grandchildren: Graeme (Kristine) Parsons, Ian (Brianne) Parsons, Melissa (Dave) Kelly, Grant (Mishka) Van Hal, Melanie (Justin) Froese, Nic (Nicole) Wright and Breanna Wright; his pride and joy the great grandchildren: Olivia and Emmett Parsons, Maeve and Thea Kelly, Finley and Alexander Parsons, Shaylene and Megan Froese.

Ivan was an avid Blue Jays fan, enjoyed visiting with friends, playing cards, golfing and trips to the casino. His quality of life was greatly enhanced when he purchased a power chair, allowing him to leave his room for activities or just to go outside and enjoy the sun, fresh air, and the birds, squirrels and deer that visited the ground of Chateau St. Michael.

RCURY

.CA

BELIEVE IT? Don’t fall victim to sharing fake news about COVID-19 online.

Learn the four simple steps that will help you SPOT fake news online.

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

Jade Marie Klyne Feb. 28, 1983 - Dec. 11, 2009 CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below, With tiny lights, the heaven’s stars, reflecting on the snow.

The light is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear, But the sounds of music can’t compare with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring, For it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me I see pain inside your heart, But I am not so far away we really aren’t apart.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above, I sent you each a memory of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold, Was always more important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, my Father said to do, I can’t count the blessings or love for each of you.

So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.

Remember “I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ with year.”

- Forever missed, always loved, Brodie, Mom, Andy and Family.

In Memory of Bill Graham December 8, 2004 If I had all the world to give I’d give it, yes and more To hear his voice and see him smile And greet him at the door.

But all I can do, dear Father, Is go and tend your grave, And leave behind tokens of love To the best father God ever made.

I like to think, when life is done, Where ever heaven may be.

That you’ll be standing at the door Up there to welcome me.

Always remembered by, Shirley, Duane, Carrie, Robert and families

Card of Thanks The family of April Glab would like to thank everyone for the cards, messages, flowers, gift cards, meals and donations in April’s memory.

We take comfort from the sympathy you have given to our family and from the memories that we shared.

Evelyn and Don Perkins and family

Farm ServiceS

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

Thank You

Special thanks to the caring staff of 3 East at Chateau St. Michael, Moose Jaw. In keeping with Ivan’s wishes there will be no funeral service.

Interment will take place in Estevan at a later date.

Donations in Ivan’s name can be made to the Sask Lung Association or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for Ivan’s family – Deb Heidinger, Funeral Director.

ESTEVAN MERCURY .CA

ESTEVAN MERCURY .CA

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS! The global COVID-19 pandemic means learning how to ESTEVANMERCURY SPOT fake news has never been more .CA ESTEVAN important.

MERCURY

Stay up to date BREAKING Protect yourself ESTEVAN NEWS ESTEVAN with media literacy MERCURY .CA

in 4 simple steps.

ESTEVAN’S SOURCE FOR LOCAL & REGIONAL NEWS

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

Notices / NomiNatioNs

.CA

MERCURY .CA

ESTEVAN MERCURY .CA

HealtH ServiceS HIP/KNEE Replacement?

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $50,000 Lump sum refund.

Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide!

Providing assistance during Covid.

Expert Help:

1-844-453-5372 GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify.

Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL SASKATCHEWAN BENEFITS 1-(800)211-3550 or Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to 306-992-5527 for your FREE benefits package.

Feed & Seed

Career OppOrtunities Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable.

Clean drivers abstract a must.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca Labourers Wanted: Duties inc, in part: pressure washing heavy equipment, trucks and trailers. Cleaning shops. Assisting where required. Heavy lifting involved.

Mechanical aptitude an asset; must be safety conscious and able to work around heavy equipment.

Must have a clean driver’s abstract.

Position located in Arborfield, Sk. Camp accommodation provided if necessary.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISISONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

Announcements

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 A17

LAND FOR SALE

BY TENDER

FOR LEASE

R.M. OF ARGYLE NO. 001

6TH STREET

SE 05-01-30-WlM SW 05-01-30-WIM NE 05-01-30-WlM NW 05-01-30-WIM SE 06-01-30-WlM SW 06-01-30-WlM NE 06-01-30-WlM NW 06-01-30-WlM NE 01-01-30-WIM SW 01-01-30-WIM

1112 Sq. Ft.

1 & 2 Bedroom Available

1629 Sq. Ft.

3130 Sq. Ft.

Interested parties should submit tenders ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 6, 2021 addressed to: Kohaly, Elash & Ludwig Law Firm LLP 1312- 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A OX2 (306) 634-3631

SCOTSBURN SQUARE

Tenders may be submitted for one or all parcels.

All tenders must be in writing, without conditions, and must be accompanied by a deposit of $2,000.00 per quarter (1/4) section payable by certified cheque to: Kohaly, Elash & Ludwig Law Firm LLP in trust.

Deposits for all rejected offers will be returned forthwith after January 6, 2021.

Land transaction to close between February 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021.

2033 Sq. Ft.

Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

CAREER

SRI HOMES’ Estevan Facility SHELTER HOME SYSTEMS is currently accepting applications for

6735 Sq. Ft. Can be made smaller into 3 separate bays.

Holdings inc.

Contact Treena thirsch@sasktel.net • 306-634-6030 • 306-421-0252

PRODUCTION WORKERS • Required Immediately

Duties include:

• Assembling and installing modular components Send, fax, e-mail or drop off resume to:

H

O

M

E

S

SHELTER

Box 845 #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK S4A 2A7 Fax: 306-634-7597 jobs.shelter@gmail.com www.shelterhomes.ca

SOUTH EAST CORNERSTONE PUBLIC SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 209

PROPERTY SALE TENDER

20123sw5

South East Cornerstone Public School Division is offering for sale through public tender the following properties: 1. Weyburn Transportation Shop, located at 1320 Railway Avenue, Weyburn Saskatchewan. Legal description of property is; Lots 5 & 6, Block 1, Plan AP302 2. Kelso Property, located within the Municipality of Walpole No. 92. Legal description of the property is; Block A, Pt NE 32-11-33w1, Kelso, Saskatchewan 3. Midale Teacherage, located at 617 College Avenue, Midale, Saskatchewan.

Legal description of the property is; Lots 4 & 5, Blk/Par 14 - Plan# FP 5416 4. Bienfait Teacherage, located at 301 Walsh Street, Bienfait, Saskatchewan.

Legal description of the property is; Lot 10, Blk5 - Plan# 51574 Sealed tenders are to be clearly marked 'SECPSD Property Bid' and will be received by the undersigned until 2:00 p.m., CST on Thursday, January 14, 2021.

The School Division wishes to inform bidders of the following conditions: • Tenders will be reviewed on each parcel separately.

• Properties will be sold as is.

• The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all tenders received and the highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.

• The provisions of The Education Act, 1995 regarding disposal of real and personal property will be strictly adhered to.

Further information is available by contacting: Andy K. Dobson Manager of Facilities & Transportation South East Cornerstone Public School Division No. 209 80A - 18th Street NE, Weyburn, SK S4H 2W4 Phone: (306) 848-0080, andy.dobson@secpsd.ca

BUSINESS SERVICES LEGAL

AUDIOLOGIST

COMMERCIAL PRINTING

We are your Barristers & Solicitors

Paul Elash Q.C. Aaron Ludwig, B.Sc., LL.B. Genevieve Schrader, B. Mgt., J.D. Gainsborough: Thursday a.m.

Carnduff: Thursday p.m.

1312- 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A 0X2

P. 306-634-3631 • F. (306) 634-6901 • www.kohalyelash.com

“Your ears deserve an audiologist” #5 - 418 Kensington Ave. (Across from Walmart)

306-636-EARS (3277)

JACQUIE MVULA M.S., R. Aud. Audiologist/Owner

www.suncountryhearing.com

• • • • •

Brochures Business Cards Invoices Oilfield Ticket Books Envelopes

• • • • •

Flyers Posters Menus Programs Labels

• • • •

Raffle Tickets Booklets Cheques whatever you need printed!

If you need it printed on paper, we can do it!

306-634-2654

A18 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Estevan fire department shares important tips for safe holidays Decorations are up, gifts are wrapped, turkeys and hams are biding their time in the freezers. While most people are looking forward to having a nice holiday with their families, the Estevan Fire Rescue Service (EFRS) reminds everyone that to be merry, holidays also need to remain safe.

In the run up to the holidays, Estevan Fire Chief Dale Feser is sharing some safety tips with the Mercury readers.

"On behalf of everybody at the Estevan fire department, we want to wish everybody a very merry Christmas and here

are some tips to make sure that everybody gets to enjoy a safe holiday season," Feser said.

To protect the family from unexpected emergencies, it's important to go through the precautions below.

1. Inspect electrical decorations for damage before use.

Cracked or damaged sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections may cause a serious shock or start a fire.

2. Do not overload electrical outlets. Overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires are a common cause of holiday fires.

Avoid overloading outlets and

SLOW DOWN

IN SCHOOL ZONES!

plug only one high-wattage appliance into each outlet at a time.

3. Never connect more than three strings of incandescent lights. More than three strands may not only blow a fuse, but can also cause a fire.

4. Keep the Christmas tree fresh by watering daily. Dry trees are a serious fire hazard.

5. Use battery-operated candles. Candles start almost half of home decoration fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

6. Keep combustibles at least three feet from heat sources. A heat source that was too close to the decoration was a factor in half of home fires that began with decorations.

(NFPA).

7. Protect cords from damage. To avoid shock or fire hazards, cords should never be pinched by furniture, forced into small spaces such as doors or windows, placed under rugs, located near heat sources or attached by nails or staples.

8. Check decorations for certification label. Decorations not bearing a label from an independent testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Intertek

(ETL) have not been tested for safety and could be hazardous.

9. Stay in the kitchen when something is cooking. Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires (NFPA).

10. Turn off, unplug, and extinguish all decorations when going to sleep or leaving the house. Unattended candles are the cause of one in five home candle fires. Half of home fire deaths occur between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. (NFPA).

More than one of every four home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems, according to NFPA. Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every four fires.

When picking a Christmas tree, it's important to choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. Before placing the tree in the stand, people should cut two inches from the base of the trunk and then make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and isn't blocking an exit.

MEN’S, LADIES & KIDS Fashion & Footwear

People should add water to the tree stand daily. When lighting the tree, use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory and never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

When it comes to lights on the Christmas tree, the same instructions should be followed as with the rest of the decorations.

After Christmas or when the tree gets dry, get rid of it, as dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. In Estevan, Green for Life (GFL) Environmental usually sets up a dumpster by the cemetery after the holiday season that's strictly for Christmas trees.

More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles and more than two of every five decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

Below is some advice when it comes to holiday decorations and entertainment.

Firefighters remind the public to always be careful with holiday decorations and choose those that are flame resistant or flame retardant.

People are also asked to keep lit candles away from decorations and other things

that can burn. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both. Any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections should be replaced. People also should read the manufacturer's instructions for number of light strands to connect.

Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged. Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

When it comes to any kind of holiday entertainment it's important to test smoke alarms and tell guests about the home fire escape plan. Children and pets should be kept away from lit candles, and matches and lighters have to be up high in a locked cabinet. People are also asked to stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop, and smokers should smoke outside, and then properly discard smoking materials.

Before heading out, leaving the room or going to bed people are reminded to always blow out lit candles and also turn off all light strings and decorations.

Also, people should bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

LOCALLY OWNED PET STORE Pet Food | Toys | Beds | Leashes | And More

This message is brought to you by

Serving SE Sask.

Your experienced, local asphalt company. gencoasphalt.ca ♦ 306.634.8001

Locally Owned Pet Store & Western Boutique | 501 Nesbitt Drive, Estevan

306-634-3755 | shop online at www.rodeodawg.com

20123ge0

U-

‘Em WE mEnd ‘Em Owners - Lance Mack & Yancey Hagel

Call 306-634-6060

2020

Christmas Memories

Relax with our favourite reader-submitted Christmas memories and greetings from your local business community! presented by:

B2 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

from the

WHAT A YEAR THIS HAS BEEN. Thank you to our readers.

Thank you for trusting us as your source for local news.

We take great pride in keeping you informed and telling your stories.

Thank you to our advertisers.

Thank you for choosing our platform (print and online) to reach your audience.

Our audience is large, engaged and local.

Thank you to our staff.

Thank you to our small and mighty team. This year hasn’t been the easiest, but you have stepped up and put out quality newspapers every week.

(photo taken before COVID-19 restrictions were in effect)

Vaila Lindenbach (administration), Ana Villarreal (production), Deanna Tarnes (publisher/sales), David Willberg (editor), Anastasiia Bykhovskaia (writer), Fay Bonthoux (publisher's assistant).

Our office will be closed from December 18th - January 1st, 2021.

We will resume regular business hours Monday, January 4, 2021.

Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B3

Merry Christmas from your local stationery store!

Thank you for supporting local for your stationery, computer and office furniture needs.

1217 4th Street, Estevan, SK TOLL FREE

(888) 936-2222 or 306-634-3613

(photo was taken in 2019)

Holiday Hours: December 24 - 8:00 - 3:00 • December 25 & 26 - Closed December 31 - 8:00 - 3:00 • January 1 & 2 - Closed

Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 10am-5pm

MERRY

CHRISTMAS

Great memories add to the Christmas season The employees at the Estevan Mercury look forward to Christmas each year, and we know most of you do as well.

We know that Christmas is going to be very different this year.

And yet we know that it can still be a special time. It’s going to be what you make of it, and even though it might be tough, hopefully there will be positives emerging this season.

Each year we’re delighted to

produce this keepsake publication for you, our readers. We describe it as our Christmas card – a brilliant, colourful one at that – as our way of showing our appreciation to you for the support you have shown us over the past 12 months by reading our paper on a weekly basis.

In this year’s special, you’ll find Christmas greetings from local businesses who are grateful for your business and support during

the past 12 months.

You’ll also find Christmas memories and traditions from various groups in the community.

The residents of long-term care at Mainprize Manor in Midale and the Lampman Health Centre have plenty of great Christmas memories. They’ve seen the changes that have occurred with Christmas over the years.

And since kids look forward to Christmas each year, you’ll find

Christmas memories from the Grade 5/6 class at Hillcrest School and the competitive program kids at the Estevan Gymnastics Club.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to have a great Christmas memory or two this year, enjoy your favourite traditions and maybe even create a new one.

So please enjoy this year’s Christmas greeting special.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and all of the best in 2021.

On behalf of the Board of Governors, Management, Staff and Students of Southeast College, we would like to wish you a very Thank you for your loyal support and trust. We wish you a safe holiday and we look forward to seeing you in 2021.

Merry Christmas and a safe and

Happy New Year!

All Southeast College campus locations are closed starting Dec. 24 and re-open Jan. 4

Dr. Peeace Dr. Erdie Dr. Holman 2-421 King Street • 306-634-2918

B4 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

A Chorus of Thanks & Well Wishes Here’s hoping your holiday hits all the high notes!

www.midwestsurveys.com

130 King Street, Estevan, SK 306-634-2635

Seaso

y r r e M

nG reet ings

s a m t s Chri

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season.

SUPPLY LTD.

6th Street, Estevan, SK • 306-634-2312

Lampman Health Centre residents share their memories The residents of long-term care at the Lampman Health Centre have seen how Christmas has changed over the years, and they’re excited to share those stories.

Christine Tokarchuk, who works at the health centre, said it was a very enjoyable process to be part of this year’s promotion.

“It was a lot of fun getting to hear Christmas memories from them,” said Tokarchuk.

The variety of the stories stood out to Tokarchuk. She didn’t expect to hear a story about a woman receiving a necklace when she

was a child growing up during the Great Depression, or another person’s experience with a sleigh being made by a blacksmith.

Other people shared stories that were more recent.

“A lot of them were just the fact that they got to be with family. It didn’t matter about the presents, it’s just being with their families,” she said.

The residents liked to reflect about Christmas in the past, and they were eager to share stories with Tokarchuk.

Albert Boire

While they are sad they might not get to see their families this year for Christmas, they are looking forward to Christmas. There has been a lingering hope that restrictions on visitors for long-term care facilities will be lifted after Dec. 17.

The Lampman Health Centre will host a residents’ Christmas party on Dec. 22 in an effort to bring Christmas cheer. The health centre is also well-decorated, with Christmas trees, decorations, Christmas gifts and more. Each resident has a stocking on their door as well.

Betty BettyChamney Chamney

My most memorable Christmas was in 1957.

I got to play Santa for my wife and first-born daughter. I was excited as I never had to do Christmas shopping before; Christmas was always given to me. It was a moment I will never forget.

We would always get together for Christmas. When my wife was still with us we would always host Christmas but after her passing, my five girls took turns.

I am thankful for every one of them. This Christmas is going to be a different one for them and for me but I’m sure it’s going to be a great one none the less.

Leonard & Rita Miller

My most cherished memory of Christmas was one that took place in the Dirty ‘30s. I was about nine years old and didn’t think that I would be receiving anything for Christmas.

To my surprise, I got a necklace from Santa. It was made from beads of two different colors and two different sized beads.

I still to this day remember that necklace. Our stockings were always filled with a Christmas orange, a few Christmas candies and nuts that you would have to shell. Mom and Dad took good care of us and there was never a shortage of food on Christmas Day!

Ken Chamney My most memorable Christmas was the year I got a sled from my dad. It was made by the local blacksmith in Kingsford and painted red.

I was about 10 or 12 when I received it for Christmas.

It was plenty big enough for me to ride in and able to hook up behind my horse.

Every Christmas was memorable, not one was less special than the next.

We would always get together at the drop-in centre. We loved to see all the family and the new additions that were added.

Everyone would bring something for a potluck supper and us, the grandparents, got to sit back and relax. We would do a gift exchange every year and after all was said and done, we would gather to play cards.

We will definitely miss getting together this year but wish them all a very best this year.

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a safe and happy Holiday Season!

From everyone at

HUTT’S TRUCKING LTD AND HUTT’S TRUCKING SAFETY SERVICES Bus: 306-487-2608 • Fax: 306-487-2296 www.huttstrucking.ca

Merry Christmas May the peace and blessings of Christmas be yours; And may the coming year be filled with happiness.

Curtis & Staff 306.634.2030 1.800.667.6400 www.bgdenture.com

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B5

GUIDING YOU HOME.

Merry Christmas introducing...

In 2021, Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate will donate a portion of proceeds to the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation.

Not only are we passionate about finding homes for families, Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate cares deeply for our community and shows that by giving back to numerous organizations through monetary donations and our time.

Thank you for choosing Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate for your real estate needs.

JOSH LEBLANC

MEIGAN WILHELM

TERRY L. GERMAIN

AMANDA MACK

DIANE JOCELYN

BROKER/REALTOR® (Part-Time)

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

306-421-6778

306-421-3982

306.421.2021

306.461.9363

1210 4th Street • 306-634-9898 • www.coldwellbanker.ca

306-421-3170

B6 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Greetings at the Holidays and best wishes always!

With gratitude for shopping local.

481 DEVONIAN ST. 306.634.2114 or 306.634.2143 rrl@sasktel.net

Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season.

Our Best Wishes to you and your Family.

128 Souris Avenue N. Estevan, SK 306-634-8255

JOHNSON PLUMBING & HEATING LTD. 1037 - 5th Street | Estevan 306-634-5172 | jph@sasktel.net

Christmas is meaningful to Mainprize Manor residents The memories of Christmas remain strong for the residents of the Mainprize Manor long-term care home in Midale.

Mainprize Manor was one of the organizations that participated in this year’s Christmas greetings keepsake edition published by the Estevan Mercury.

Kyla Mathieu from the manor said she found the process of gathering up the memories to be very interesting, because there was such a variety of reflections.

“Some residents really liked the food and

Alice Scharnatta My favorite part of Christmas was the food.

Home-raised turkey was the best for supper.

Lorraine Ollenberger My favorite Christmas was the year before last. We had Christmas at my niece’s house.

the variety of food. Other people were more about the memories and riding sleighs to church,” said Mathieu.

One story had a resident open up about going to a family member’s place, and how they travelled and stayed warm.

The residents also liked being part of the process, as they appreciated the one-on-one time and being able to share their stories.

They’re looking forward to seeing their stories in the paper.

Some residents are worried they might

Barbara Sanders Every Christmas was special because of all the family and friends.

not be able to see their families at Christmas this year due to COVID restrictions, but the manor is trying its best to keep them festive.

Regulation changes mean they can’t have as many decorations as they want, but there are still decorations adorning the building. It took about three days to get them all up.

A resident Christmas party will happen Dec. 21, and on Christmas Day, the Mainprize Manor trust committee will deliver gifts so that they have something to open on Dec. 25.

Kay Johnson My favourite Christmas was when I was little in Ireland. At school, a local farmer would go out and cut down a huge tree and bring it to the school, loaded with presents and an orange for every kid.

We would also have a new dress to wear.

Flashback – Dec. 22, 1982

Usually Christmas was at home, in Macoun, with family and lots to eat. T here was always a nice big turkey, potatoes and gravy. My mom worked for the day, getting everything ready. Our family always got together after dinner and played games.

My girlfriends and I would go o ut sleighing, laughing and joking around. I love the big decorated trees and the Christmas parties.

Merry Christmas

Each year a shooting team from the Estevan (Elks) PPCLI army cadets have a competition against a team from the Elks prior to the annual Christmas dinner. The Elks sponsor the cadets. On most occasions the cadets come out on top and 1982 was no exception as they outshot the opposition 761-506. Members of the cadet team were, from left, Cary Weimer, Leroy Jensen, Gordon Francis, D’Arcy Forbes, Dave Dupre and Len Francis.

35

All for $

TAKE OUT DEAL OF THE MONTH

y r r e M as m t s i r h C

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, we give thanks for the many blessings and good fortune he has bestowed upon us.

Lasanga, Caesar/Tossed Salad & Pop.

Buy $50 gift card, get $10 free!

Thank you for choosing us for your dining experience.

May the spirit of the season fill your heart and home with love. We wish you a wonderful Christmas and a year filled with peace, prosperity, good health and good fortune.

Merry Christmas

Serving SE Sask.

Order online at firedupgrill.ca

Your experienced, local paving company.

gencoasphalt.ca ♦ 306.634.8001

10” 2-TOPPING PIZZA, Chicken Wings,

www.futuresignsinc.com

306-636-2323

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B7

May 2021 bring you love, happiness and health.

Happy Holidays!

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas!

HO ... HO ... HOpe it leaves you laughing all the way!

ANNER BIT SERVICE CELL: 306-421-3726

Carnduff, SK • 306-482-3244 www.fasttruckingservice.com

104C Perkins Street, Estevan, SK 306-634-6491 • questlinelocators@sasktel.net

Rolleen Turner

Marlene Krueger

SURFACE BIT RENTAL QUALITY RERUN & RETIP 24 HR SERVICE CELL: 306-421-3726 RES: 306-634-7538 OFFICE: 306-388-2941

My favorite things about Christmas CHAD FROESE were opening gifts, decorating and the variety of food.

My favorite Christmas was at my grandson’s house. We opened gifts and had dinner with my children and grandchildren.

Norma Barber

Winston Serson My favorite Christmas memories were sleigh rides with horses and a rack of hay.

We would start a fire to heat up stones. Once the stones were hot, they were placed in a box. The stones and fur coats would help keep the truck warm while we travelled 15 miles, from home to Wolseley, for Christmas.

Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

My favorite part of Christmas, was the full house, dainties and Christmas cake. Christmas was a happy time with sending cards and gifts for the kids. I would play piano and we would sing Christmas carols with the grandkids.

Our favorite thing to do was make Gingerbread boys with the kids. Of course, there was a Christmas tree and Santa; we always left milk and cookies but Santa preferred beer. It was so joyful and everyone was so looked after.

Ruth Hoium I loved staying home for Christmas. All the kids and grandkids would come home.

We would have Lutefisk.

Merle Sanheim #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK 306-500-5660 • www.shelterhomes.ca

Season’s Greetings from Our Staff to Your Home

706- 5th Street • Ph: 306-634-3522 • 24 Hour Service • 7 Days A Week!

On Christmas Eve, we would all get ready and go to Midnight Mass.

There would be a nice light snow gently falling and the moon shining.

We would take the horse and sled to town. We would put the horse in grandma’s barn in town, while we were in church. After mass we would have homemade sausage, strudel, rumaki and goodies. When we went home, we would find Santa had been to our house and left gifts. The next day we would have lots of people to our house for Christmas dinner.

We would go for sleigh rides and everybody would have fun.

Shell Rotella T6 5W-40 only

37

$ Thank you for believing in us! It has been our pleasure to serve this community in 2020, and we wouldn’t be here without your kind support.

We hope your Christmas is merry and bright in every way, and we look forward to serving you in the New Year!

306-634-7209

95

plus taxes.

306.634.2544 621C 5th Street, Estevan

B8 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

88 Devonian Street Estevan, SK 306-634-4041 (24 hr)

Hillcrest students excited for Christmas So many kids look forward to Christmas each year, and the Grade 5 and 6 students at Hillcrest School are no exception. The class, which has 29 students, was among the participants for the Estevan Mercury’s Christmas greetings special section this year. Jillian Ursu, one of the teachers for the class, said they were excited to be part of this year’s promotion.

“One of the comments that came out of one of their mouths

was ‘All of us? All of us get to be in the paper?’” said Ursu.

“They were pretty excited to know that they were going to be in there, they were really excited to be able to tell their parents that they were going to be in the paper, too.”

It was good experience to go through the experience of writing and editing their memories before submitting them.

There are some talented writers in the class. The answers that the kids gave were really well

done, with a variety of memories and traditions. Ursu said Hillcrest has a variety of cultural backgrounds in its classrooms, so some of the students chose to write about Christmas, New Year’s and more.

“They varied a lot with what the kids were excited about sharing,” said Ursu.

She thought she’d see responses about running down the stairs to open presents, and she was pleasantly surprised to have greater variety.

Aaliyah Grade 5 One of my favourite Christmas memories is when my Aunty Dawn, my baby cousin, my Grandma Bessie, and my cousin Arielle watched the movie The Christmas Carol. My little sister got scared so we changed it, but that is still my favourite memory.

935 - 4th Street, Estevan 306 634 3443

Sarah Grade 6 My favourite memory is when I got 46 presents that year.

I had 10 presents left and my siblings only had two left.

So, I was opening a lot of my presents and my siblings started opening them for me.

I go to my dad’s house then my grandma’s house on Christmas.

It’s fun because we have two houses full of presents. At my dad’s, our living room is full of presents.

At my grandma’s the Christmas tree is in the living room. I love spending time with my family!

Fil Grade 6

Acadia Grade 5 At Christmastime, we play some games and have some friends over. We open presents and then have some food.

We had banana splits with ice cream, chocolate, bananas, and marshmallows.

We also had pop and chips.

For supper we had deviled eggs and egg salad and mashed potatoes with gravy.

We stayed up all night and ate lots of snacks.

After that we went to bed and then we had more fun the next day.



On behalf of Council and Staff I am pleased to wish our community a healthy and happy Christmas Season and all the very best in the New Year.

My favorite New Year’s memory is in 2013 or 2014 in the Philippines.

On New Year’s, the parents cook a lot of Pinoy food. Most of my mom’s siblings spend New Year’s with us. After we eat, we play games and do stuff. My favorite Pinoy food is lechon and adobo. My uncle will give us money and sometimes he tosses money.

Whoever gets it, keeps it. I miss the stuff we do on new year’s. We play stop dance and more. Those are my favorite memories.

Our best wishes to you and your family.

Happy holidays!

306-634-6060

Sincerely, Mayor Roy Ludwig

Merry Christmas

Lori Carr, MLA Estevan Constituency Office e

306.634.7311

loricarrmla@sasktel.net

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B9

Do You Hear ? r a e H e W t a Wh e sound of

With Bright Wishes at The Holidays Wishing all our friends, neighbors, patients and associates a holiday season filled with lots of bright smiles and laugher. l

That’s th for our gratitudeu! folks like yo

#130-1175 Nicholson Road, Estevan 306-634-0193 • dunlophearing@gmail.com

3-421 King St. Estevan • 306-634-3244 • info@scotsburndental.com • www.scotsburndental.com

Chloe Grade 6

Season’s greetings to our neighbors, friends and patients here in the community. Your support and trust mean the world to us, and we’d like to extend our heartfelt best wishes to you and yours for a happy, healthy holiday. Merry Christmas!

Haley Grade 6

These are a few things I do at Christmas with my family. We set up the Christmas tree a week before Christmas. We have family come over before Christmas. On Christmas Day, we open presents and it is so much fun.

Then we go to Kenosee Lake to my Grandma’s and my Grandpa’s cabin to open up more presents.

After we are done opening our presents, we go sledding. It is so much fun because the hill is so tall and you go so fast and at the middle you go flying up then you go back down. It is so exciting!

My Christmas tradition with my family every year is that we have our family of 17.

We all go to my grandma’s house. Her house is gigantic. The whole family eats supper together with a full home cooked meal. Usually for Christmas supper we have turkey, mashed potatoes, and salad. For dessert we always have lefsa. Lefsa tastes great and my grandma is awesome at making it.

Once we are all finished eating, we open presents. We open presents differently every year. One year we did Secret Santa, another year we got our presents and then switched if we wanted someone else’s gift. Sometimes we open presents normally.

Presents are my favorite part of Christmas not only because we get gifts, but because of how people react when they get a gift. When they smile, it makes you smile. Once we are done with presents, we all play cards or board games for about an hour or two. We just keep playing games until everyone leaves. Once everyone is gone, we go, too. My favorite memory of all time is when we had a huge family get together in Alberta. I have 17 in my immediate family, including grandparents, cousins, aunties and uncles. My whole entire family has 102 people, and all 102 family members came and we had a huge Christmas family supper. We had no presents or Christmas tree, but that’s okay because I was with family. It was in the middle of nowhere and we had cabins and a huge fireplace with lots of chairs so all of us could fit around the fireplace. Most of all, I was with family and beautiful scenery around trees and water, and that is what made this memory more special.

Kaleb Grade 5

Paul Grade 6

My favourite Christmas memory is spending time with family and eating good food with family.

One of the traditions I have is going to my grandparents for Christmas Eve, where we have supper. This year I am going to put my dad’s phone in the living room to catch Santa on camera.

The first good gift I got was a PlayStation 4. I hope I get what I want for Christmas.

Every Christmas Eve, my mom, dad and I go to my grandparents for yummy food. I cannot wait for Christmas!

Benjamin Grade 6 My favorite Christmas memory is when I went sledding in Grade 2 near the school I go to. I was very scared when I started sledding down the hill, but when I got used to it, it became super fun.

One time on the hill I wiped out and went tumbling down the hill and fell flat on my face. It was very cold with snow in my face like that.

After we went down the hill with our sleds, we sat down and had hot chocolate from the Tim Hortons nearby.

When we were finished with the warm, delicious hot cocoa, we headed back to the school to go back to our houses.

That is why it is my favorite Christmas memory ever!

We wish you all the best for Christmas and the new year.

December 25, 2019.

I woke up very excited Christmas morning and I ran to the living room and I saw a lot of presents.

I opened the biggest present I saw, and it was a Nerf gun. I was very happy because I did not have a Nerf gun. I then realized it lights up. It was the best present I ever got. I also got some fidget toys, clothes, and more.

I didn’t get to celebrate Christmas with my whole family, but we got to talk on Messenger for a long time, while playing Scrabble with my mom and her friend.

I had fun all day playing with my new toys and spending time with my mom on Christmas, which is why this is my favorite Christmas memory.

Turner Grade 6 My favourite memory is our 2018 Christmas party at my grandparents’ new house. Sure, it was a three-hour drive but I loved it. I met my cousins, Jackson and Jared. We played video games, and just in general, we had fun.

The best thing I ever went to. We had the best supper, ur family-recipe spaghetti.

Tomorrow is a gift, and we want you to be ready for it.

Sending you our best wishes for Christmas and the new year.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

hubinternational.com 306-634-5454 info@percydavis.com

Risk & Insurance | Employee Benefits | Retirement & Private Wealth

Hwy 361 West, South Yard, 306-487-1611

B10 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

There is no time more fitting to say

May the season’s festivities bring you joy and happiness.

Thank You

and to wish our valued customers, vendors and friends, a very

Merry Christmas

Prairie Mud Service

#92 Highway 39 E Estevan, SK

Head Office: Estevan, SK

306-634-3411

(306) 634-6549

Jase Grade 6

“Fluid Solutions thru Experience and Technology”

Connor Grade 6

My favourite memory and part about Christmas is waking up and opening presents. This year I want a skateboard, a controller, and headphones.

When we are done opening presents, we wait until supper and go to my grandma’s house. When we are done supper, we open presents. We have a snowball fight with all the wrapping paper at the end.

I play with my cousins and then it is time to go home and go to bed. The next day I go to my other grandma’s. We eat supper and open presents.

The thing I like most about Christmas is seeing all my family. I have 14 cousins, two grandmas, two grandpas, three aunties, five uncles, one mom and one dad.

This is why I like Christmas, and these are my memories.

My favourite part of Christmas is waking up and going downstairs and seeing all of the presents and going to my grandma’s and grandpa’s house.

I get to see my whole family and get to play with my cousins outside. When we are done opening presents, we have a big snowball fight with the wrapping paper.

I love going to see my grandma and grandpa and my cousins and eating lots of food with my auntie and uncles, too. I have four aunties, four uncles and 12 cousins. It is the best year to see all my family.

After, I go to my other grandma’s house and eat more food and open more presents. I love having Christmas there. It is lots of fun. I am excited to have Christmas this year.

Cyrus Grade 6

Charlie Grade 6 The memory I have is from last year when I got Minecraft and NHL 20 for my Play Station 4. I also got a Penguin toque and Kylo Ren’s lightsaber.

My family set up our tree. I went to my grandma’s house over Christmas break. I also went to my Nana’s house. I opened a lot of presents last Christmas. I got a bunch of Lego sets and some books.

For supper we had potatoes, turkey, peas, and gravy on the potatoes. Whenever I am at my grandma’s place, I skate on their dugout. I see all of my cousins. I hope Christmas works out this year.

When my family has Christmas supper, my family brings plates of food to our house.

Sometimes it looks like a big buffet.

After we eat, we open presents. Then as soon as were done opening presents, we run as fast as possible down the stairs to go play while our parents talk.

My favorite memory is when we play Extreme Hide and Seek or laser tag. I also love playing football in the snow around the house. Most of the time we have a big Nerf war in the dark.

It’s kind of dangerous because we have no clue where everyone is. Thanks for reading my Christmas get together.

Savhanna Grade 5 My favourite Christmas tradition is spending time with my dog, and going to my grandma’s and spending time with my cousins. I also like my grandma’s dog. I love Christmas!

What’s Inside?

Our team wishes you a magical Christmas and a Happy New Year

Our best wishes for a Merry Christmas, of course!

Thank you for being such an important part of our year.

RM OF

5th STREET Autobody 601-5th Street, Estevan 306-634-7101

COALFIELDS NO.4

RMSt., OF Bienfait, SK • 306-634-2222 423 Main

COALFIELDS NO.4

Merry Christmas!

Oxbow 306-483-2848 Pipestone 204-854-2231 Waskada 204-673-2284 Halbrite 306-458-2344

From my family to yours, wishing you joy and peace this holiday season. Trusting the New Year brings hope of promising days ahead.

Merry Christmas!

Dr. Robert Kitchen

1-866-249-4697 www.drrobertkitchen.ca

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B11

Thank you for your support this year. We are very excited to look ahead at all the changes we have planned!

Wishing everyone a safe and

Merry Christmas • Ardene • Dollarama • Eclipse • Marks • Money Mart • Nutters • Peavey Mart • Pet Valu • Sask Liquor

• SaskTel • Sobeys • SportChek • Star Gift • Studio C Fitness • The Brick • The Source • Tim Horton’s • Warehouse One

Visit The Final Estevan Farmer’s Market Saturday, December 19th - 9:30am - 2:00pm

Holiday Hours 9am - 9pm Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm Saturdays 12pm - 5pm Sundays

400 King Street, Estevan, SK 306-634-2444

Please respect COVID-19 restrictions, social distancing and wear your mask

B12 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

We wish you a joyous and festive holiday season.

Happy Holidays From All of Us

We hope this Christmas brings the best to you!

Thank you for your trust and patronage at the holidays and all year.

Sending Out Our Best Wishes Hope it’s merry, bright and filled with good friends, good times and good fortune!

Dean & Daughters’ Repair Shop

Thanks for choosing us!

ORLOWSKI LAW OFFICE

Our connection to this community is something we really appreciate.

Prof. Corp.

STEPHEN J. ORLOWSKI, B.Ed., LL.B. 1215 - 5th Street, Estevan

Phone: 306-634-3353 • Fax: 306-634-7714 • steve@orlowskilaw.ca

116 Hwy 47 S, Estevan SK, (306) 634-6114

1254 7th Street, Estevan • (306) 634-9994

Ethan Grade 5

Jazmine Grade 5

My favourite Christmas memory is when my dad and mom got me a big gift and I loved it. I liked when my cousin, uncle, dad and I watched the Mandalorian with baby Yoda at Christmas evening.

Tradition is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in a stable.

Ryleigh grade 6 Waking up at the crack of dawn, running to the shining Christmas tree, hopping around with glee as we see presents under the Christmas tree from close relatives. After opening presents we run outside with our sleds, wearing toques, mitts, ski-pants, and a warm jacket.

As we run to the sledding hill out on the farm, we have a contest to see who goes the farthest down the hill. After sledding down the hill we go inside, have hot chocolate with whipped cream, and wrap ourselves into a warm blanket.

We watch our favorite Christmas movies. We usually went to our grandparents’ house but this year because of COVID-19 we probably will do a FaceTime call when we open presents, or visit our friends in Estevan, and stay six feet apart.

We also do a Christmas party, where the kids all play outside in the snow while the parents are in our garage or in the kitchen talking and laughing.

One of my favorite Christmas memories is when we went to my grandparents’ farm and my grandpa made a huge snow hill since we got sleds for Christmas and we went sledding for hours. We went at the same time going down the hill, on the same sled, backwards. We did a train, and we even went sideways! And that didn’t end well; we both went flying off the sled and tumbled down the hill.

After that we went back inside and played with the new stuff we got for Christmas. Our little cousins came out and we all played together.

The next day we went to my older cousins’ house for another Christmas, we made a scavenger hunt for the boys and at the very end they found a bunch of chocolate! Later that night we made an escape room and all the parents had to work together to escape three rooms. And that is my favorite Christmas memory!

My favorite Christmas memory is when we went shopping for presents, played games and went sledding down the hill. These memories were in maybe 2018 or 2019.

I do not quite remember the names of the games we played but I think we played a game called Secret Santa!

I have a sledding memory too. We live down a hill where you can see the apartments and Shell gas station. I think you’ve probably driven by my house, though, because it’s also near the Co-op and the Trinity Tower. That’s where I go sledding if there’s enough snow, that is.

For the shopping part, we have a little mini shop at Hillcrest each year except for 2020. It is where you get to pick two items for your family, friends and loved ones. So, I got two items for my family. We also went shopping at Walmart and other different shops. If I were to pick my most favourite Christmas memory, I would pick the shopping and getting gifts one because it was fun to do and I enjoyed it! Those are my most favorite Christmas memories!

Pheonix Grade 6 My mom works very hard to give us the stuff that we love. She only works part-time and has four kids, so our Christmas is mostly about having fun.

We wake up Christmas morning with a couple of presents for each of us under the tree. Angie and I are usually the first ones to wake up. Angie walks upstairs with her earbuds in and a smile on her face, which is very shocking, but sometimes not. Sam comes downstairs so excited and can’t wait to open presents, so he waits for mom to come downstairs, too. Mom finally comes downstairs, usually with her sweatpants on and a cup of coffee in her hands, and then we open presents. Sam goes first because he is the youngest, then me, and Angie at last. I am hoping that we can go sledding this year if it isn’t too cold.

Usually Naz comes over in the morning and mom usually has something for him. We all hang out and eventually Naz goes home. Then we drink hot chocolate and hang out with other family members and maybe some friends. I hope my Christmas this year will be exactly like I wrote about.

With Thanks,

Merry Christmas ffrom fr rooom m

Banners Ban BBa annnners rs & Fl Fla Flags aaggs • D Dig Di Digital ggiitaaall PPr Printing ririnntittin inngg & D Decals ecal als als Dimensional & Flat Signs • Vehicle Wraps • Paint Protection

www.bkcreations.ca

Ho-Ho-Hope It’s Happy!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year The greatest gifts are the people who bring warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces. I would like to wish all of my clients and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope the holiday season and the coming year deliver all of the wonderful things you deserve and more.

Best wishes from my home to yours!

1339 4th Street Estevan, SK S4A 0X1

306-634-1020 Lorna Pylychaty

306-421-6847 Lorna.pylychaty@c21.ca

Thank you for your continued support & business this past year.

Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

Thank you for making us your pets home away from home

All Creatures Creatures All Creatures for making making us us your your pets pets Thank you for home away away from from home home home

We’re all revved up to wish you a merry Christmas powered by faith, family, friendship and joy.

Big thanks to all of our valued customers for your trust in us.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

1139 5th Street

306-634-2823

Box 1518, 101 6th Street Estevan, SK S4A 2L7

Tel: (306) 634-8655 Fax: (306) 634-8028

Close & Convenient

Training & Boarding

Close Close && Convenien Convenientt

Training Training && Boarding Boarding

306-421-6155

306-421-6155 306-421-6155

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B13

Merry Christmas!

Crescent Point is proud to be part of your community.

Thanking You Is at the

Top of Our To-Do List

We hope your holiday season is equipped with all of the fixings that matter most.

Merry Christmas!

80 King Street, E., Estevan, SK

306-634-3689

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family. www.girardbulk.ca • (306)

Kurt Grade 5

Kyle

I love to go sledding and skiing. I go sledding down a big hill near Westview School. I even go over some jumps and ramps with my sled. Sometimes I get to visit friends, too. I might even go sledding with them too. When it is time to go home, I play video games on my Xbox 1 or Nintendo Switch.

I like to play Grand Theft Auto 5 on my Xbox and I have one game for my Nintendo Switch that is called Mortal Combat 11. The best part of winter break is Christmas because we get to buy presents at Walmart. We sometimes watch scary movies at Christmas break. I like winter break.

Skyla

I have family come down and we open presents. Sometimes we even have Christmas dinner.

We also like to hang out with each other.

Every Christmas morning, we open presents as a family and my auntie and uncle come after with my grandpa to open presents with them.

This is one of my favorite Christmas memories. One day on Christmas or around Christmas my sisters, auntie, uncle, mom and I went sledding and we hit a big bump on the hill we were on. We went flying down the hill. Then me, my uncle and auntie went down so fast and we fell.

I went with my mom and we went fast down the hill. I had a lot of fun that day with my family even though it was like three years ago. That’s my Christmas memory. I hope you enjoyed reading about it!

Liam Grade 6 It was a nice winter afternoon.

My grandpa came over for Christmas.

My sister and I both got a lot of presents.

I was so excited for Christmas. My school was going to do its annual play.

I was very nervous but nailed it.

The next morning it was Christmas Eve. I had to do another play at the church; it was cowboy themed. I also nailed that play like a boss.

The next morning, I was so excited to open my presents.

They were huge, which made it more exciting.

I got Godzilla for my last present. Well that is it for my story I wish you all a good night.

Merry Christmas!

Season’s greetings to our valued customers, associates, neighbors and friends.

We wish you all the very best!

crescentpointenergy.com

Grade 6

When we were still living in the Philippines, we had our New Year there and it was so fun. We play games, watch the fireworks and play a lot of games all night long. Some of our neighbours grab sticks and slam them on the road to make a lot of crazy sounds. Some grab their motorbikes and make lots of noise.

A lot of people go to the road and light fireworks. It is fun.

Some people grab long bamboo sticks and make stilts and walk around on them. There is a lot of food and we play games. Whoever wins gets a lot of money. It was the best new year ever. I really want to do it again.

Logan Grade 6

Grade 6

Just a Little Holiday Hello

637-4370

At Christmas, my family goes to my grandma’s. All my grandma’s family gets together to have Christmas. We put their Christmas tree up and put the ornaments on the tree. My grandma and my mom and my aunty would prepare the turkey.

My older cousins would get the salads ready and the ham.

After we would eat. After eating we would sit on the couch and watch hockey. After the hockey game was done, we would go to bed. We would wake up and have breakfast.

After breakfast we would open presents and we would thank Santa and our Moms and Dads and grandparents. zThis is my favorite Christmas tradition.

Rayne Grade 6 What are Christmas traditions? Well, they are something that you do with family or friends. I do mine with my mom and dad; we have this tradition every year! Opening Christmas presents on Christmas morning is a tradition.

My favourite memory is every year my mom, dad and I bake cookies. We bake all kinds of cookies. We bake ginger snaps, peanut butter cookies, sugar cookies, and chocolate chip cookies. After they are fresh out of the oven, we try one of each, we get a cold glass of milk to dip the cookies in to test try. My favorite cookies are the classic chocolate chip. They are just the best!

I love this tradition because my mom dad and I get to spend a lot of time together when we do this. And who does not like cookies?

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Wishing you a joyous holiday season with peace and cheer in the new year!

BBERT ERT BBAXTER AXTER TTRANSPORT RANSPORT LTD. LTD. 301 Kensington Ave., Estevan, SK 306-634-3616 • www.bbaxtertransport.ca

306-634-2616

B14 December 16, 2020

STOP SHOP

BASEMENT FLOOR REPLACEMENT FOUNDATION REPAIR SAVE NOW - WINTER RATES

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICES - LARGE FLEET OF EQUIPMENT WITH SKILLED OPERATORS AT YOUR SERVICE

SANDING & SHOVELING SERVICES

110 Frontier Street, Estevan

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATES 306.634.7276

w w w.h

Merry Christmas

w w w. t u r n b u l l ex c a va t i n g . c o m

WE ARE YOUR ONE

www.estevanmercury.ca

AND

SEASONS GREETINGS! From all of us at Stream-Flo, wishing you and your families a safe and healthy holiday season.

Stream-Flo Industries Ltd. 201 3rd Street Estevan, SK S4A 0N6 306.634.4719 www.streamflo.com

csas.sk.ca

Vidya Grade 6

Max Grade 5

My most favourite Christmas memory is when I first got here. It was around November 28th or so, definitely near Christmas. At exactly 8:00 a.m., December 25th, my mom invited all her friends to come to her and her other friends’ Christmas party. I obviously didn’t want to go, because I was a very, very shy kid. I didn’t have a choice though as my mom forced me – I either had to go or go. The party was fun and everyone was so nice. After one hour it was time to open the gifts. I didn’t want to be rude so I didn’t open my gifts until I was told to. After a long time of waiting I was finally able to open my gifts! The first gift I opened was a Barbie Dream House, I was so happy!

I opened some more of my other gifts and I got a lot of stuff, I mean A LOT! I even think I got money from some of the gifts! After the party, I played with some of the gifts I received and I was so happy that in my first ever Christmas in Canada I got that many gifts!

This was my best Christmas memory, because where I come from, we celebrate Christmas but don’t usually give gifts. Although my grandparents were not here with me in Canada, Christmas here in Canada is still amazing! That’s why my first Christmas here in Canada is my best and favorite Christmas memory.

Roman Grade 6 Have you ever lost your mom or dad in a grocery store? Well, I have, and this is my experience. I was driving to the store to get some eggnog and other supplies. My mom and I walked into the store and it made that ding dong noise and then it happened. I looked at a candy box and then I looked back, and she was gone. I started walking to see if I could see her, but I couldn’t. I probably looked at every isle. I thought I found her. So, I tugged on her coat and it was the wrong person. I walked away in shame wondering if I would ever see her again. I did, but it was the longest hour of my life.

I am having a good winter so far. For Christmas I would like a remote-control car that can go off-road. Last week I went to Warren, Man., and I brought my quad there. I did a wheelie and lots of donuts. I saw cops but I am too fast, and they did not see me. Over Christmas break I am going back to Warren. The tradition at my dad’s house will be that we get one present on Christmas Eve. I hope it is the RC car! I plan to go on my quad with my dad at Christmas time too. I think it will be a lot of fun. I think I will get to see my cousins while I am there. It is going to be great.

Sydney Grade 6 One of my favorite Christmas memories is when I was in kindergarten and I made a little clay gingerbread man ornament.

This is one of my favorite Christmas memories because I still have it hanging on my tree. It is still living. So, when I was in kindergarten, I made this little gingerbread man and I painted it pink and yellow and it was falling apart repeatedly so my dad kept gluing it.

One of my other Christmas traditions is I always have a family supper and open presents. My mom, my grandma, my sister, my dad and I go to my grandma’s place for a supper then we would go to our house to open our presents.

At our house we have a big Christmas tree that we put all our presents under and open them. I also go to my other grandma and grandpa’s farm every year for Christmas.

They sometimes attach a sled onto the quads and pull us around giant slopes and the fields.

We also have a Christmas supper and open presents with our whole family and friends. We always play board games and hang out after at my grandma’s house and the farm. Those were some of my favorite Christmas memories and traditions I like to do at Christmas!

WE WISH YOU A

Wishing everyone a safe and fun holiday season.

Estevan, SK 306.634.7567

Merry Christmas

Thank you to everyone that choose Senchuk's for your new vehicle and service this year.

Merry

May the season’s message of peace on earth and goodwill toward all mankind, reach every corner of the world.

Thank you for your generous support and friendship.

We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

306-634-3900 www.chamneycrushing.ca

Christmas from everyone at

118 Souris Ave. N. Estevan 306-634-3696 | www.senchuk.com

www.estevanmercury.ca

December 16, 2020 B15

What a year!

Thank you for trusting us with your pet’s health.

Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to All

Let us echo the message of the season by expressing our sincere thanks to you, our loyal patrons. Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

BILLESBERGER LAW FIRM BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS

JOHN J. BILLESBERGER B.A., LL.B. MERRILEE SWANSON, B.A., J.D. 1017 - 3rd Street, Estevan

108 Breeze Street, Estevan 306-634-7123

(306) 637-3710

www.prairieanimalhealthcentre.com

Estevan GYMNASTICS Club Aaliyah Toupin-Biccum

Carsyn Macdonald

McKenna Bohn

My favourite memory was when my family came for Christmas and gave me a hug and a kiss.

My favourite Christmas memory was when my dad and I built a rink in our backyard and then I ditched him.

Abby Jones

Danica Mosley

My favourite Christmas memory is when we got an actual good picture with Ella my dog.

My favourite Christmas memory is I like eating with my family.

My favourite Christmas memory is when I got my puppy Emma. I was so excited to have a dog that I stayed by her side all day. I fell asleep in the garage by her kennel.

Melissa Sclear My favourite Christmas memory was last Christmas because I got extra presents and it was very fun, and there was no Covid-19.

Haley Murphy In 2017, we did a Christmas sleepover at the gym and we watched a gymnastics movie, had snacks and got to sleep wherever we wanted with friends.

Anna Biggs When I was baking cookies with my mom, dad and brothers.

Bella Hammett

Morgan Hirsch

Haylie Petterson

My favourite Christmas memory is when my elf hid in a jar from my dad’s stinky farts.

My favourite Christmas memory is when we spent a week in Mexico last year.

My favourite Christmas memory was when I got to open up a box and it had new pyjamas inside.

Bergen Kersey

Quinn Zahn

Heidi Byers

In 2018 I got my very first low bar and high bar kip right before Christmas.

My favourite Christmas memory is from when I heard Santa Claus.

My favourite Christmas memory is when I got my bar.

Lila Hale

Brynley Rosengren

In 2018 I got my new cat Ozzy from Santa. That is my cat’s name.

My favourite Christmas memory was when my elf came for the first time.

Merry Christmas from

EXPERT

VAC

Thank you for your continued support.

SERVICES

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Owned & Operated by Cam rutledge 306-634-2522

Thank you to Estevan and surrounding areas for your continued support and love, especially during these trying times.

We appreciate the acts of kindness, donations and every prayer.

306-634-5555 www.skyliftservices.com

Wishing everyone a special holiday season.

Creighton Lodge

Make It Merry!

The spirit is building and we want to say,

Have a happy holiday!

One thing that we know is true, Is we couldn’t have made it without all of you!

102 Perkins Street 306-634-3553 • 306-421-3557 office@sector1.ca • www.sector1.ca

HENDERS DRUGS Larry

Allen

Dawn Marie

Falynn

Travis

Marcy

Peggy & Jean

Joanne

Abby

1220 4th Street, Estevan 306-634-3666 9 am - 9 pm Monday to Friday • 9 am - 6 pm Saturday 12 noon - 4 pm Sundays & Holidays

B16 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Holiday SALES EVENT presents

Get a FREE

0

%

55” Smart TV

with the purchase of any new or used vehicle!

15 OFF %

the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Durango

$10,000 OFF 2020 Trucks

2020 DODGE RAM 1500 TRADESMAN Stk#20138

FOR 96 MONTHS

(on select models)

10 OFF %

the Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Compass and Jeep Wrangler

2020 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE Stk#20187

MSRP - 49,500 SALE - $48,700

MSRP - $55,655 SALE - $48,071

$

294 bi/wkly

289 bi/wkly

$

$

0% for 96 months

0.99% for 96 months

2020 CHRYSLER PACIFICA Stk#20181

2020 JEEP CHEROKEE TRAILHAWK Stk#20170

MSRP - 60,780 SALE - $51,663

MSRP - $47,390 SALE - $42,624

$

317 bi/wkly

259 bi/wkly

$

$

0.99% for 96 months

0.99% for 96 months

2020 JEEP WRANGLER RUBICON Stk#20180

MSRP - $64,110 Buy any new or used vehicle and get a

55” SMART TV FOR FREE!

349 bi/wkly

$

0.99% for 96 months

Wishing everyone a safe and

Merry Christmas!

SERVICE SPECIALS

Peace-of-Mind Maintenance Package

$89.95

Wheel Alignment $95

Service includes: Up to 5 liters Genuine Mopar Motor Oil • Mopar Oil Filter • Rotation of 4 tires • Peace-of-Mind Inspection of cooling system, all fluid levels, electronic battery test, front and rear brake systems, exhaust system, suspension system • Provide written report • Synthetic/semi-synthetic oil available at additional cost • Manufacturer check

No appointment Necessary Oil Change $39.95

Thank you for choosing Power Dodge for you new vehicles, and your vehicles service needs. We appreciate you.

409 Kensington Ave | 306.634.3644 | Powerdodge.ca

g n i c u d o r t In ck & Cli t! c e l Col Our ESTEVAN location now offers ONLINE grocery shopping.

1. go to https://www.shop.crs/estevan 2. choose pick-up 3. choose Southern Plains Estevan location 4. choose your pick-up time 5. click ‘start shopping’ 6. shop away and follow the instructions to check-out 7. wait for a confirmation email with pick-up instructions 8. pick-up your order in your designated time slot

It’s that easy!

NO mask, NO waiting in line, NO stress, and shop from the comfort of your own home!

Click and collect!

www.southernplainscoop.com

Estevan - 826 4th Street 306.637.4300

SPIRITS BRIGHT • Coldest Beer In Estevan & Oxbow • Huge Selection of Cold Ciders, Coolers, Craft Beer • Wine from all over the World • Seasonal Christmas Products • Local Products

Want something we don't have?

We do special orders, just ask!

Your One Stop Shop!

Alcohol, mix and ice right in your grocery store!

Estevan & Oxbow PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY – DO NOT DRINK & DRIVE

Seriously GREAT flooring.

Cheers & Jeers

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

A19

Seriously GREAT flooring people.

306-634-5588 104 - Hwy. 47 S. Estevan, SK

www.floorstoreestevan.ca

306-453-2519 Bay #1 - Hwy. 13 Carlyle, SK

A day to celebrate

Cheers Cheers to local merchant Jenny Joanes for waiving the cost on a toque that was being purchased by a cancer patient. A very thoughtful gesture.

Cheers to all the Estevan Mercury carriers.

They deliver us a free community paper every week. They deserve some extra recognition for their efforts during this holiday season.

Cheers to anyone involved with the Joyful Pathway Project, putting up decorations on the pathway between King Street and Wellock Road.

The Christmas decorating has been enjoyed very much during walks this week. It was a wonderful display and very festive.

Cheers to all the Christmas light displays around the city. It’s so nice to see so many people bringing joy to these sad times we are having right now.

Cheers to the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary for their efforts to continue to raise money for the long-term beds at the hospital. It’s amazing how much money they can raise, even during a pandemic.

Jeers Jeers to motorists who take up two parking stalls at once. It’s Christmas time. People are out shopping. Don’t make it even harder to find a place to park.

Jeers to the landowners who feel they must start a fire and burn flax straw, sloughs, etc., with our dry and windy conditions. And we finally get some nice days but can’t go outside because all you can smell is smoke.

Jeers to people making such a big fuss over wearing a mask. What, you have to put one on to go in a store for 15 minutes? Such a hardship.

Many people in other countries not only have to worry about the pandemic but have to worry about how far they have to walk to get fresh water and find food.

To submit a cheer or a jeer, please email it to dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca, or visit www.estevanmercury.ca.

From left, Deputy Fire Chief Rob Klassen, Mayor Jennifer Sedor, Fire Board chair Darcy Moore and Fire Chief Don VanMeer participated in the ribbon cutting for Carlyle’s new fire hall on Dec. 7. The long-awaited project has been in the works for years, with numerous fundraisers. A grand opening celebration will occur once larger crowds are allowed.

It was a tough Christmas If ever there was a tough Christmas, at least for a lot of us, it will be Christmas 2020.

I won’t really miss the work involved in putting up and taking down the tree but that’s only because no one can come to share its beauty with us.

In my musings of how different this season is and will continue to be for the immediate future, there are some other very tough things about that first Christmas.

I’d not really thought much about them before but here are a couple of things to ponder.

First, the role of Mary.

As confident as she was that

Give the gift Sparkly, of time pretty

and a touch of colour.

These rings sing

Linda Wegner Words of Worth she’d heard from God regarding the baby Jesus she was privileged to bear, she still was subject to gossip, ridicule and scorn.

Then, I’d honestly never really considered the role of Joseph before either. He, too, had the assurance that Mary’s pregnancy was initiated by God Himself but he, too, must have endured com-

Countdown To

iWave-R Residential

Christmas Dec. 16

Dec. 17

Dec. 18

Duplo Playmobil & Lego

Clicformers

50%

Thomas & Friends / Chuggington

Dec. 20

Dec. 21

Merry Christmas 30-50% Dec. 19

munity gossip. What I’d not thought about was the sacrifice and self-control required by a healthy young man who “kept her a virgin” throughout those long months until she brought forth “her firstborn Son.” (Matthew 1:25) The shepherds also took the risk of leaving their flocks alone by night. Dangers lurked but the call of the

cradle took precedence even over that.

Finally, there were those wise men: I can only assume that months of travel through desert sand and heat is tiring business, even when led by a star.

Yes, 2020 was and is tough but challenges face each of us all along our journey.

“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” Romans 8:28

Air Purifier

30-50%

% 30 50 20%

14” - 18” Dolls & Acces.

Rocket Cars

Models

%

off

Dec. 22

12pm - 5pm Dec. 23

Dec. 24

Schleich

Breyer / Calico Critters

Fish

% 30-50 30-50 30-50 %

London Blue Topaz • Morganite Ceylon Sapphire

%

10am - 4pm

Thank you for supporting local.

1226 - 4th Street Estevan, SK Street, Estevan, SK 1226 - 4th 306.634.2215 306.634.2215 www.aajewellery.ca 106 Souris Ave N, Estevan | 306.634.8100

www.aajewellery.ca

Regular Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10-6

Breath Cleaner, Fresher Air with an iWave Air Purifier from Mid-City Plumbing & Heating Safely reduce odours and allergens and kill mold, bacteria & viruses

1237 6th St. Estevan, SK S4A 1A9 306-634-5512 • mid-cityplumbing.com

kids speak What powers Santa’s sleigh?

Easton Hale

Age: 6

“Stars, through their magic.”

Lincoln Meyers

Age: 6

“Christmas spirit, because it’s people believing in Santa.”

421 King St #3, Estevan, SK I 306-634-3244

www.scotsburndental.com

A20 December 16, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

19

AFFINITY PLACE PARKING LOT

DEC

6:45PM

Shop Estevan presents

JINGLE BELL ROCK A HOLIDAY DRIVE IN CONCERT

AWARD WINNING CANADIAN COUNTRY ARTIST

JUSTIN LABRASH AND TRUE NORTH Tickets $40 per vehicle available at HENDERS DRUGS and online at labrash.net PREORDERED MERCHANDISE ORDERS WILL BE SIGNED AND AVAILABLE AT THE GATE

GIVE THE GIFT OF ALL OF YOUR LOCAL FAVES WITH SHOPESTEVAN BUCKS! ShopEstevan Bucks can be purchased at A&A Jewellery and are redeemable at participating ShopEstevan members.

What is SHOP Estevan?

Shop Estevan is the newest way to find all your faves, locally!

Visit www.shopestevan.com for the latest news on local businesses, exclusive deals and savings at all your favourite shops.

Watch for monthly promotions too!

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Are you a business interested in becoming a member?

Email Laurel at hello@shopestevan.com.