Estevan Mercury 20230125

Motorist shares experience of multi-vehicle incident on Highway 47 north of Estevan

By Ana Bykhovskaia

It was an experience he never expected to have and would never want to go through again.

Troy LeBlanc of Estevan ended up with a broken and dislocated ankle after a two-vehicle collision Jan. 13 on Highway 47 north of Estevan. After the incident, a Manitoba man ended up facing 12 charges under the Criminal Code.

LeBlanc said he was travelling back to Estevan from a meeting in Indian Head. He was on Highway 47, just about 10 minutes from home and about three kilometres north of the airport road, when all of a sudden he said there was the back end of a truck with no lights on in the middle of the highway.

“By the time I had any chance to react, it was too late,” LeBlanc recalled.

LeBlanc suffered serious injuries as a result of the collision. His vehicle immediately generated an emergency call.

Shortly after the collision, LeBlanc said a man appeared by LeBlanc’s vehicle. The person managed to open the vehicle door and tried dragging LeBlanc out.

“I don’t know where he came out. I just know he

tried to rip me out of the car,” LeBLanc shared. “He proceeded to go and grab this shovel [from the truck in the initial collision]. And he was on top of the truck swinging his shovel around. There were several vehicles that attempted to stop to help, and he swung a shovel at them. And they took off, right, for reasons.”

LeBlanc was able to close and then lock his door, and then contacted emergency services. One van stopped to help, and it ended up in the ditch, becoming the third vehicle involved in the incident. LeBlanc said the man climbed in the passenger window.

“I, unfortunately, had a front-row seat [for seeing] all of it,” LaBlanc said.

He couldn’t tell how long everything lasted. It was an experience he said no one expects to have, especially in a smaller community.

LeBlanc said there was another person in the truck, but he doesn’t know anything more about them. While he was badly injured in an accident, and then attacked by a stranger, he said the main thing he was concerned about was people in the vehicle in front of him as he thought something might have happened to them.

“I was quite concerned for those in the vehicle because I didn’t know what happened until it happened,” LeBlanc said. “I’m coming up on a vehicle stopped in the middle of the road. I was worried when I heard the emergency services when they first came out, they said they found children’s belongings. And I was just devasted because I felt like I may have harmed their child. And then they said there was no children present. I mean, it didn’t ease my mind. But it relieved me that there wasn’t a kid present.”

Once first responders arrived on scene and were able to bring the situation under control, LeBlanc was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital. The following morning, he was transported to Regina for surgery and was released later for recovery.

“It’s one day at a time,” said LeBlanc on Jan. 17. “I’m recovering at home, just resting and relaxing.

“It was a situation, and I’ll get past it. It’s just a matter of time.”

He added that a sense of humour helps him stay above water.

“[I feel] like I hit a truck,” LeBlanc said with a laugh. “That’s a sense of humour, but at least it’s still there. It’s like the doctor came in on Friday for the consultation, and he said, ‘Well, you’re not going to be running any marathons.’ And I looked down at my physique and I said, ‘Doc, it’s not like I ran them before.’ And he burst out laughing, he said, ‘At least one thing you still got is your sense of humour.’ You know, with all things considered.

“Hopefully, I never have to live through this situation again, and I hope I don’t ever have to see this young man again. I hope he gets recovered wherever he may be. But I don’t ever want to go back to that situation.”

LeBlanc also thanked all first responders for everything they did at the scene that night.

“I want to say a major, major thank you to the Estevan fire department, the

Estevan RCMP detachment, the Estevan Police Service and of course, the Estevan Emergency Medical Service EMTs. They did a phenomenal job that night,” LeBlanc said. “I am very grateful for the quickness and of course, the duties that they had to perform that night.”

According to the initial press release by the RCMP, the initial investigation determined a vehicle was travelling southbound when an adult male passenger attempted to gain control of the vehicle, causing it to stop in the middle of the road, and the second vehicle collided with the first one.

The RCMP said the adult male passenger from the first vehicle assaulted and attempted to rob the driver of the second vehicle. Then he armed himself with a shovel and made several attempts to stop and steal other passing vehicles. He climbed into the passenger window of one of the vehicles, which ended up in the ditch.

Joseph’s Hospital celebrates

Troy LeBlanc, a well-known member of the Estevan community, ended up with a broken and dislocated ankle after a three-vehicle collision that occurred on Highway 47 on Jan. 13. Photo courtesy of Troy LeBlanc

Troy LeBlanc’s vehicle was badly damaged in an accident on Jan. 13.

EPS

By David Willberg

The Estevan Police Service experienced a significant decline in its calls for service in 2022, but the number of Criminal Code violations grew.

The figures, released at the Jan. 18 meeting of the Estevan board of police commissioners, showed that the EPS had 6,568 calls for service in 2022, down 28.7 per cent from the 9,218 infractions they dealt with in 2021.

The total number of calls for service was also down 18.4 per cent from the fiveyear average of 8,054, which Police Chief Richard Lowen views as good news.

“It’s more accurate to see that percentage change when you’re looking at larger numbers like that as opposed to smaller numbers,” said Lowen. “When we can look at our calls for service, that’s a good indication that we’re on a good trend here.”

As for why calls for service are down from both 2021 and the five-year average, he said part of it is due to the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions.

The crime numbers, though, show that the EPS issued 631 charges under the Criminal Code or the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, compared to 585 issued in 2021 and the five-year average of 622.

volumes were down 28 per cent in 2022

Crimes against the person were at 146, up eight per cent from the 135 they had in 2021. They had 112 assaults, up from 88 the previous year.

When he reviewed them from month to month, Lowen said there was often an addiction factor, whether it be to drugs or alcohol. It’s a common theme throughout all of the offences they have, but particularly with assaults.

“What I want to do this year is to look to see if we can have a more in-depth analysis into both the reasons behind the crimes, where they’re located and how we can focus our enforcement in our partnerships with our outside agencies to help have an impact,” said Lowen.

There were also 22 sexual crimes, down from 38 the year before; 10 assaults causing bodily harm, up two from 2021; and two robberies, compared to none in 2021.

Crimes against property jumped 22 per cent from 287 in 2021 to 351 last year. Included in the total were 162 thefts over $5,000 (compared to 123 in 2021); 122 mischief or wilful damage complaints (113 in 2021); five thefts over $5,000 (up from four); 18 thefts of a motor vehicle (up from 14); and 43 break and enters (versus 30 in 2021). Thirty-one break-

and-enters were residential, eight were businesses and four were listed as other. There was one arson in 2022, down from three the previous year.

Thirty-three charges were laid under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the same number as 2021. Last year saw 24 charges for trafficking, up from 11 the previous year, and nine for possession, down from 20 in 2021. There were no charges for production, compared to two in 2021.

The one category that

saw a decrease was Criminal Code traffic violations, which declined 22 per cent from 130 to 101. Last year there were 82 impaired/ exceed-related offences, 14 for impaired by drug and five for dangerous driving/ other. The previous year had 89, 28 and 13 charges, respectively.

Lowen was pleased to see a drop in impaired driving in the community, as other communities have not seen a similar decline.

“We’ve continued with the enforcement strategies and the education part, and

I’m hoping that education part continues to have an influence on how people drive,” said Lowen.

The five-year averages were 126 for crimes against the person, 321 for crimes against property, 126 for Criminal Code traffic violations and 43 for Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Lowen noted there hasn’t been a change in the way in which incidents are reported since he started. He couldn’t comment whether anything was done differently five years ago, but the information from the members is they’re doing the same for recording.

In the upcoming year, the EPS will focus on its business plan, released last fall, with greater emphasis on how it gets numbers out to the community so they can start to see results of the work of the members.

Quarterly reports will be released to the community so they can see the EPS’s work. They will include statistics, with everything from crime reporting and five-year averages, to the number of compliance checks and traffic enforcement tickets, to community involvement.

The EPS will also continue with its illicit drug strategy.

“It’s concerning when

we start seeing things like fentanyl creeping into the community, but it’s all across Saskatchewan. It’s consistent,” said Lowen.

The EPS is also going to focus on crimes like theft under $5,000. People were coming into the community to commit thefts and then leaving. Lowen pointed to people from Regina stealing metals and catalytic converters.

“We did specific targeted enforcement and we were able to arrest people for that,” said Lowen.

Year-end numbers for the city’s bylaw enforcement were also released at last week’s police board meeting. According to Special Const. Ana Volmer, there were 1,676 occurrences last year, up 258 from the 1,418 handled in 2021.

Bylaw enforcement had 804 unkempt property inspections, 245 parking violations, 159 animal calls, 122 other bylaw calls, 95 taxi inspections, 81 parking complaints and 67 snow removal notices to account for the bulk of the calls.

Lowen noted that Volmer has done a good job in terms of keeping up with the activity since becoming the bylaw enforcement officer. She has set out a plan for herself in which she would select an area and get to all of the properties in a day.

Estevan Kinettes set for online auction for Telemiracle

The Estevan Kinettes continue to accept donations for their third annual online auction, which is set to run from 9 a.m. on Jan. 24 through 6 p.m. on Jan. 29 at Estevan Kinettes Auction for Telemiracle Facebook page.

Local Kinettes will take all proceeds from the auction to Saskatoon to be added to the Telemiracle total.

Tara Kyle, Estevan Kinette Club member and also Zone H representative for Telemiracle Foundation, who is responsible for the auction this year, said she started working on the event in November and December, and things have been coming together well.

“We’ve got quite a few responses. I’m still picking up a few prizes and stuff But everybody’s been really awesome about wanting to help out and contribute and support Saskatchewan Telemiracle,” Kyle said.

At the end of the last

year, Kinettes were delivering letters to local businesses and individuals to see if anybody was interested in donating to the auction and to start getting things co-ordinated. The response they’ve received has been really good.

“People are always really off about the way they respond with Telemiracle. They know where the money goes, they know that it’s a good cause and they get to help the people of Saskatchewan. So it’s been really awesome,” Kyle said.

As of Jan. 20, the Kinettes had about 60 bid items. Kyle said she still had a few to pick up and will continue to accept donations even once the auction is underway. She added she hopes to have closer to 100 or more items available for the auction and the total to be no less than $1,500, but they always want to go higher for Telemiracle.

All bid items are posted

on the Facebook page, and the bidding will happen under each item. Some of the lots include gift cards to local businesses and restaurants, paintings from local artists, a weighted

« A1

blanket, an outdoor firepit and much more.

There will be a minimum bid for items, and then there will be different increments for bidding.

“Then people just keep

an eye on what they want to purchase and keep bidding on it until the auction closes,” Kyle explained.

Winning bidders will be contacted on Jan. 30 with payment information and must make arrangements to pay for their items before Feb. 7, or the item will go to the next highest bidder. Once items are paid for, they will be released to the buyer. People are responsible for paying postage/shipping for the delivery of their items.

“Anybody is absolutely welcome to bid on the items,” Kyle said.

She added that the auction is open to anyone from across Saskatchewan, and even people out of the province. It may mean more work on behalf of Kinettes, but knowing how much this money can help, Kyle said it’s worth it.

“The work pays off in the end,” Kyle said. “I’m actually on the foundation

board. This is my second year, I am a zone rep. And getting to see where that money goes and having been a recipient of it ourselves – my husband and I were actually helped by Telemiracle with our little boy before he passed – and knowing where that money goes, makes all the work worthwhile. It’s so worth it in the end.”

Kyle also thanked everyone who donated to their auction.

“I just want to thank all the businesses and the people of Estevan for their donations and for supporting us in this and making this happen because, without them, our auction wouldn’t be possible. So, I just am so, so grateful for all the contributions and their willingness to contribute and give to a very worthy cause.”

If someone wants to donate bid items, they can message Kyle on Facebook or call her at 306-4216375.

Manitoba man faces charges

When officers arrived on scene and told the man he was under arrest, the man did not comply, rushed at one of the officers and attempted to pull their conducted energy device from their uniform. Another officer

deployed their conducted energy device. According to the RCMP, the man continued to resist and attempted to assault the officers, but was arrested a short time later. He was taken to hospital for treatment of serious, non-

life-threatening injuries sustained in the collision.

As a result of continued investigation, 19-year-old Justice Guillas from Ste. Marie, Man., was charged with four counts of assault with intent to steal, three counts of assault, one count of resisting arrest, one count of disarming a police officer, two counts of mischief under $5,000 and one count of

failing to comply with a release order condition. All charges are under the Criminal Code.

Guillas appeared in Estevan Provincial Court on Jan. 16. He was remanded into custody and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on Jan. 23. He will be back in court on Jan. 30.

None of the charges have been proven in court.

Telemiracle 47 is set for Feb. 25-26, and the Estevan Kinette Club is going to run an online auction ahead of the main fundraiser, with all proceeds going towards the total. Graphic sourced from the Estevan Kinette Club Facebook page

Police Chief Rich Lowen

Estevan celebrated Burns night with full house

By Ana Bykhovskaia

Scottish culture and the life and art of Scotland’s greatest poet were celebrated during the annual Robert Burns Night at the Royal Canadian Legion’s Estevan branch.

The annual event started in Estevan in 1978 and has been going strong ever since, with the exception of the two pandemic years when the tradition had to be put on pause. On Saturday, Robert Burns Night made a successful return with a traditional sell-out.

“I think this night was a tremendous success considering the two years layoff due to COVID. We were concerned. But between the pipe band and the dancers, everything came together pretty good,” said Capt. Robert Rooks, who was a part of the South Saskatchewan Regiment

(SSR) before it was disbanded in 1968, and who also started the Pipe and Drums Band in Estevan in the early 1970s.

A few hundred Estevan people gathered to celebrate Burns’ upcoming birthday, which falls on Jan. 25 and also coincides with Rooks’.

The No. 2901 Estevan Elks Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) Cadet Pipes and Drums Band organized and entertained at the event, which was also a fundraiser for them. The Drewitz School of Dance also delivered several performances including the Highland Fling, which is one of the oldest of the traditional dances of Scotland and historically signified victory following a battle.

Capt. Ken Turner was the master of ceremonies for the night. To start the

evening, Cpl. Leo Mitchell, Cpl. Alex Krupka, Lance Cpl. Kayla Mitchell and Cpl. Jacob Pyra, accompanied by piper Lt. Angela Durr, piped in the flags. Then Rachel Duncan led the singing of O Canada.

After the introduction of the head table for the evening, band members piped in the haggis – the Scottish national dish, which is a savory pudding containing sheep pluck and oatmeal.

Allan Mohrubutter read an address to haggis, which was followed by The Selkirk Grace by Pyra. The head table then led the guests in raising a toast to the King for the first time in 70 years, and then everybody in presence were invited to try the lamb dish and enjoy supper.

Dyana Drummelsmith shared more about Burns’ life and poetry.

Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist who was

writing during the Enlightenment Period and his place in history occupies the

mid-to-late 18th century in Scotland. He is most well known for contributing to Scottish culture with such pieces as his famous song Auld Lang Syne.

Drummelsmith noted that the first Robert Burns’ Night was celebrated over 200 years ago and since then the tradition spread across the world.

“Such a celebration has been done since 1801. It started on July 21 of that year as a little gathering of [Burns’] friends on the fifth anniversary of his death. They met in the Alloway cottage where Burns had been born on January 25, 1759, and the next year moved the celebration date to the anniversary of his birth,” Drummelsmith said.

Although he could have written his poems in the more common Queens English, Burns wrote everything he produced in various dialects of Scotland. Burns, like other Scottish writers of the era such as Sir Walter Scott, were a part of a sub-movement in art, history, storytelling and literacy know as romanticism.

“His language was earthy and images real and gritty. Burns is fun to read, more so than all the other romantic poets. It will make you laugh, but is also deep enough to argue and ponder over. Poems about sex, gender, alcohol, culture and wild imaginings are able to appeal to

Envision is seeking new board members

The Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. is looking for new board members.

The organization is looking for volunteers to join their board of directors. Being a communitybased, non-profit organization serving southeast Saskatchewan for over 25 years, Envision is looking for people who reside in the southeast corner of

the province and who are inspired to create positive change within their community.

“Reward yourself with a healthy boost in self-confidence, self-esteem and life satisfaction, by becoming a board member and making a positive difference in your community,” Envision said in a press release.

“The board of directors is made up of passionate

volunteers who guide the mission, vision and governance of the organization. Working together with staff, the board of directors ensures the needs of those living in the communities it serves are met.”

Envision encourages and supports healthy choices in individuals, families and communities by offering innovative programming and diverse

counselling and support services. With locations in Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle and Oxbow, it offers counselling and support programs for adults, families, couples, children and youth.

Envision also participates in community events and programs in hopes of creating awareness and education on the issues of abuse and violence.

Board members meet monthly, with the exception of July, August and December. Meetings typically alternate between locations in Weyburn and Estevan, with mileage for travel reimbursed, or are held virtually.

“This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in sharing their knowledge, experience and passion for helping others.

teenage audiences and older audiences alike,” Drummelsmith said in her speech.

“Burns lived a full life as father, husband, lover, intellectual, poet and songwriter. In his art and life, he loved beauty and honesty, while despising arrogance and hypocrisy. He loved a good party, a good story, a good song, and a good drink with friends. He loved life, loved lassies, and he loved being one of the boys.

“In conclusion, Burns’ voyage in life was a grand one – and it is a testament to his life and talents that since his death, his standing around the globe has only increased.

“Now that we know why we are here, I’d ask you to raise a toast. To a poet of the ages. To Scotland’s best loved son. To the immortal memory of Robert Burns,” Drummelsmith concluded.

Once the tables were moved out of the way, the Pipes and Drums Band took the floor to perform their playlist for the night including such songs as Scotland The Brave/Rowan Tree, The Children/Hills of Alva, Highland Laddie/Brown Haired Maiden and more. The music by the band was intertwined with traditional dance performances by the Drewitz School of Dance. The guests were then invited to dance the night out with music by DJ Dave Elliot.

Becoming a board member of Envision Counselling and Support Centre can make a difference in the health and well-being of our community. A little help from those who can, makes a huge difference to those in need,” Envision said.

More information, as well as the applications for the board of directors, can be found www.envisioncounsellingcentre.com.

The Toast to the King, which was raised for the first time at the local Burns night, and it was a part of the celebration of poet Robert Burns and Scottish culture at the legion in Estevan.

Robert Burns Night at the legion was organized by the No. 2901 Estevan Elks Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) Cadet Pipes and Drums Band, who also performed during the event.

The Drewitz School of Dance entertained the crowd with a number of performances including Highland Fling, accompanied by No. 2901 Estevan Elks Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) Cadet Pipes and Drums Band.

Sales Manager Pat Pasloski - ppasloski@estevanmercury.ca

Sales Assistant Christine Jones - cjones@estevanmercury.ca

Editor David Willberg - dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Editorial Staff

Ana Bykhovskaia - abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

Production Manager

Ana Villarreal - avillarreal@estevanmercury.ca

Production Morgan Hodgens - mohodgens@estevanmercury.ca Laura Kish - laura.kish63@gmail.com

Administration Vaila Lindenbach - admin@estevanmercury.ca

You can always find something to do

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 - $105

In Canada - $126

When it comes to recreational activities in southeast Saskatchewan, summer has the reputation for being the more enjoyable time of the year.

After all, there’s no shortage of things to do. You have warmer temperatures, longer hours of daylight and plenty of outdoor options to enjoy.

As long as they can handle the heat, people will tell you summer is just more fun, not just in southeast Saskatchewan, but pretty much throughout the country.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a fun time in southeast Saskatchewan during the winter months.

The Estevan area is going to be treated to a great time over the next week and a half, thanks to the upcoming Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts women’s curling provincials and SaskTel Tankard men’s curling provincials. (More on those events can be found throughout the paper).

But those aren’t the only fun events that will be happening in the southeast this winter.

The hub of activity in so many communities during the winter months is the local arena, and for good reason. It seems like most people in a community will be at the arena at some point during the coldest months to enjoy figure skating, minor hockey, senior hockey, a tournament or,

for those of us in Estevan, a junior hockey game.

Or you might just want to enjoy a burger or a coffee with friends at the local rink. You’ll also find plenty of people enjoying curling, as a competitor or a fan, during the winter.

Southeast Saskatchewan has a bevy of cultural facilities that are open during the winter months. You can drop by the library. You can enjoy a concert. Some of the museums are open during the winter months.

And if outdoor recreation is your thing, well, you have opportunities. Especially this winter.

Local snowmobilers have waited for years to have that winter when there is lots of snow on the ground. They finally have it. Snowmobiling isn’t a cheap hobby, but there are a lot of people who enjoy it, and with the snow and the terrain, this is a good place to do it. (Just stay off Estevan’s pathways. It’s unbelievable that people have thought the pathways were made for snowmobiles).

One of the activities that we have seen growing in popularity is cross-country skiing. More people have been getting out and skiing in designated areas. Places like Moose Mountain Provincial Park and the Preddy Trails at Woodlawn Regional Park are great for cross-country skiing, which

is a fun way to spend time outside while burning off some calories.

Another popular activity has been snowshoeing, thanks to the rentals that are available through the Estevan Public Library.

When the weather is right, and the pathways and sidewalks have been cleared, you can go for a nice walk anywhere in Estevan.

Once schools are out for the winter break, you’ll see a number of organizations offering events for children to remain busy for a few days.

There will be more events happening in the area as winter progresses that people can enjoy, giving you reason to get out of the house.

Or you can just go for a drive and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery (it is quite nice in many areas) or go for a nice meal at your favourite restaurant.

We still don’t have much in the way of daylight. We just cleared nine hours of daylight earlier this week. Temperatures can be frigid. We’re expected to have bone-chilling cold again soon after having above-average temperatures for most of January.

But that doesn’t mean that we don’t have anything to do.

So get out and enjoy what this area has to offer. It sure beats sitting inside and binge watching something on television.

A glorious return of a wonderful tradition

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 thatThe 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.

For a year after February 2020, many of our reports started with sentences that included the words “cancelled”, “postponed” and anything else synonymous with COVID-19.

It was a sad year when the cancellation of traditional events and activities was such a common occurrence that it felt like it was turning into a new tradition.

Then 2021 didn’t bring in too many changes, with us often reporting on things remaining postponed or cancelled until better days. One thing that has rejoiced the cockles of my heart was that hardly any local events wrapped up for good despite the challenges during those two years. The same goes for most local businesses.

The year 2022 finally brought a longexpected wave of “returns” and “comebacks” into the stories. I probably wrote over five dozen, if not more, articles about activities popping back up on schedule. The two-year break resulted in quite a few full houses and sell-outs, which was great to see.

Now that we are in 2023 and nearing the three-year anniversary of the big changes, the returns are coming to a full circle. We are finally heading into the Scotties Tournament of Hearts this weekend, and into the Tankard a bit later – something local curling fans have been waiting for years.

Another big return was the Robert Burns Night – the celebration of Scottish culture, traditions and heritage that has been dear to many local people for over 40 years. The Burns night was one of the first bigger events I got to cover as a reporter with the Mercury in 2019. It was also the first-ever event in my life related to Scottish culture and traditions. Plaid, sounds of military marches, scotch and haggis, all filled with

Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About…

meaning and intertissued in history. I just got a taste of the beauty of this event back then. The next year I couldn’t make it and then it was paused.

So to be a part of it again after four years was a great pleasure. It was wonderful to see people back together, celebrating the cultural bonds that held their ancestors together and honouring their roots. It was great to see this tradition coming back to life.

Traditions matter, especially when there are so many fast-changing things around. We need traditions to keep some feeling of comfort in our lives. They give us a sense of belonging and bring us together. Traditions help build and then strengthen ongoing connections. They also help to reinforce shared values. Besides, traditions offer context.

Kilts, pipes and drums, haggis, stories about the life of Burns and his poems, are pretty much impossible for me to understand by ear – all those traditional pieces filled my head with historical images and took me back hundreds of years.

But it was the feeling I had afterwards that stood out the most. It was the feeling of the basic foundation and connection to the roots. The cultural elements that were highlighted and celebrated during the night have been tying generations of people for centuries. They reinforce that sense of support system and belonging.

Behind us are our parents, and their parents stand behind their backs, and so on,

and even when memories fade the cultural bonds passed upon generations and maintained, despite distances separating people, keep us together and make us stronger. They allow us to continue the work started by previous generations, using their knowledge, rather than starting over.

We all have different backgrounds. Various cultures and traditions helped form us and made us who we are (even if we don’t know much about our heritage). Keeping those traditions alive and passing them on to the next generations helps us stay connected even if we don’t practise them as much as our ancestors did.

Besides, learning more about traditions helps us understand each other, understand others’ values. Especially in Canada, a country built on immigration and a country that encourages and celebrates diversity.

Understanding that cultural diversity, I think paves the way to peaceful and happy co-existence and enriches life.

The big, full-house Robert Burns Night that brought hundreds of locals (some with Scottish heritage, but many of different origins) together to celebrate Scottish traditions was a beautiful example of that. I sincerely enjoyed being a part of it and hope to see it continue for many more years.

And while covering traditional events becomes repetitive with time, I’d rather write about how things went than report that they were cancelled or are returning.

So hopefully, now that we made an almost full circle of returns, we’ll just get back to living through and enjoying what life brings instead of worrying about “uncertainty” (hopefully this popular COVIDtimes term will stick to retrospective stories as well).

Another great opportunity for Estevan

David Willberg Willberg’s World

Finally, the Scotties/Tankard is happening in Estevan.

The two high-profile provincial curling championships were announced with much fanfare in January 2020. Estevan would be hosting the Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts women’s curling provincials and the SaskTel Tankard men’s provincials at beautiful Affinity Place in the winter of 2021.

We know what happened from there. COVID struck, and this marquee event for 2021 was cancelled. Estevan was given first right of refusal to host both events in 2022, but with this city already slated to host the Centennial Cup national junior A hockey tournament in 2022, the organizing committee decided to pass and hope they could get it for 2023.

Nobody was surprised when it was announced the ScottiesTankard would indeed hit Estevan in 2023.

The Scotties begin Jan. 25, and the Tankard is next week. It’s going to be a great 12-day stretch for the city.

We’re going to have 12 of the top women’s curling teams in the province, including a team out of Estevan skipped by former provincial champion Cindy Ricci. After the Scotties wraps up, there will be a two-day break, and then the Tankard begins.

I know I sound like a broken record when I say this, but events like this are such a great showcase for our community. We’ve seen it with other sports and with other events. We saw it when Estevan hosted the Tankard in January 2018 and the Home Hardware Canada Cup of Curling in December of that year.

Everyone who came to those events praised the community, its people, the organizing committee and the venue itself. When Canadian curling icon Rachel Homan said Affinity Place is among the best sites she has curled in, you know you have something special.

Events like the Scotties and the Tankard are not just about the venue and entertaining fans with great competition. They benefit the entire community.

When we hosted the Tankard in 2018, the economic spinoff was substantial. Granted, that was a 16-team tournament. But we’ll have two tournaments with 12 teams each here for several days. And it’s not just the curlers here. You’ll have their family and friends. You’ll have CurlSask officials. You’ll have others coming here.

It’s going to be a lot of money for hotels, restaurants, service stations, retail businesses and so much more.

You’re going to have people here who haven’t been here in a long time. Some might be here for the first time ever. So it’s important to make them feel welcome, so that they will be eager to come back again in the future, whether it be for the next curling competition, some other sporting event, business or other reasons.

When they come here, hopefully they’ll reflect on the great time they had here and the wonderful people they encountered.

When Estevan hosted the Tankard, everyone knew it would be a springboard to bigger and better things when it comes to hosting big-time curling events. The support Estevan showed in January 2018 paid dividends less than a year later when the Canada Cup came to town.

And now we have to wonder what will be in store for Estevan next once the Scotties-Tankard is finished. There are a lot of significant curling events out there, and many of them work better in smaller communities like Estevan.

There is a downside to the Scotties-Tankard. The ice surface at Affinity Place won’t be available for roughly three weeks, during a busy time of year for local hockey teams. It takes time to convert Affinity and other arenas to accommodate curling, and it takes more time to return the ice to hockey use.

And there are other amenities at Affinity and the Estevan Leisure Centre that won’t be accessible for two weeks. The walking track will be shut down at a time in which it’s the best option for walking and jogging in the community.

These are factors to be considered should Estevan decide to host these events together again or another prominent curling competition that would leave us down to one ice surface for an extended period of time.

But the upside of this event outweighs the negatives. For the next two weeks, the focus of the Saskatchewan curling community is going to be on Estevan. It’s going to be a great time and a wonderful showcase of our city.

Let’s make the most of it

Southeast College receives grant to establish new Centre of Sustainable Innovation

The Municipal Coal Transition Funding Committee has awarded Southeast College a grant of up to $200,000 towards its first-year start-up costs in Estevan to establish Southeast College’s Centre of Sustainable Innovation. The official presentation took place Monday at the college’s Estevan campus.

The centre will be home to diverse interests including applied research, sustainability, innovation, just-in-time learning and entrepreneurship. A major driver of business growth across industries in the province and across the nation is sustainable innovation.

“Southeast College is thrilled to receive this grant. The establishment of this centre will assist in attracting investment and advancing the development and diversification of the southeast region’s economy,” stated Dr. Vicky Roy, CEO and president of Southeast College.

Roy added, “We are fortunate to have a strong team at Southeast College, and Tania Hlohovsky Andrist and Darcy Nolte from our strategic development division have been instrumental in obtaining this grant and moving this new centre forward.”

In October 2022, Southeast College and the University of Regina announced a memorandum of understanding with the intent to join forces to provide academic programming, career training, continuing education, applied research and international student support services to help meet education, economic and labour market needs. The partnership is an important step forward in expanding alternative and sustainable energy education in rural communities in southeast Saskatchewan.

“On behalf of the Municipal Coal Transition Funding Committee, we are proud to have been able to support this application and we are confident that the money allocated will be used to the great-

est benefit,” said Mayor Roy Ludwig. “We are excited to be a part of this initiative with Southeast College and, having had the privilege to work with this extraordinary group, knowing this funding will assist the areas in reaching their greatest potential.”

The college’s president and CEO explained that the centre will work on finding sustainable energy solutions and more opportunities applicable to the region and its people.

“Applied research can be about value-added agriculture, agriculture, sustainable energy, carbon capture, tourism and hospitality management,” she said.

“The difference between applied research in college or polytechnic and research in universities is we are just very action-oriented, working with the industry on problems and to solve issues or challenges … to make it happen. So that’s exactly what we will do. But really, it’s working with the cities, working with the partners here in the region, and the University of Regina on sustainable energy.”

The centre will also help with reskilling the people that will be affected by the transition out of coal-powered en-

ergy, Roy added, as the college will also offer the training.

The grant the college received will help the new centre to get off the ground, but Roy said they will be looking for more funding and grants shortly. They are also currently hiring a vice-president of innovation and strategic development, who will take care of the centre.

Roy also said that they will have more announcements, hopefully, come spring as they plan to potentially expand the college and provide even more opportunities for local, outof-province and international students.

At this time, they have the space dedicated to the needs of the new centre inside the Estevan campus, but that may change if the college moves forward the way they envision.

And the Centre of Sustainable Innovation is already up and running.

“Now with the $200,000 grant from the Coal Transition Fund, it’s official and Southeast College has a new Centre of Sustainable Innovations,” Roy said.

“It’s going fast, fast and furious, and I think, it’s great. The region is very, very intrapreneurial. The city is intrapre-

neurial, the mayor, and it’s a great place [to start the centre]. And it’s a very, very nice community, a nice college, so I’m really happy that my visions fit the ones of the community.”

The Municipal Coal Transition Funding Committee consists of Ken Bonokoski, Mayor, Town of Bienfait; Richard Tessier, Reeve of the RM of Coalfields, James Trobert, Councillor with the RM of Estevan, Ashley Galloway, City of Estevan Economic Development committee, Tony Sernick, Councillor with the City of Estevan, and Mayor Ludwig.

“As a leading provider of innovative courses, programs, and applied research services, Southeast College is perfectly positioned to continue to improve the lives of communities and businesses. We deliver flexible programming and competency-based training to educate and reskill workers in our region through partnerships with municipalities, educational institutions, and Indigenous communities,” the college said.

“Southeast College is proud to offer innovative and flexible programming that encourages students to learn where they live.”

One person dead in collision near Carndu

One person is dead following a fatal vehicle collision near Carnduff on Jan. 17.

Carnduff RCMP responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Range Road 1331 and Township Road 20, approximately 10 kilometres south of the community.

Initial investigation determined a pick-up truck was travelling north on Range

Road 1331 when it collided with a semi-trailer that was travelling east on Township Road 20.

The driver of the pick-up truck, a 92-year-old man, was declared deceased at the scene by EMS. His family has been notified and Southeast Regional Victim Services has been engaged to provide support.

The driver of the tractor-

trailer, a 22-year-old man, was assessed by EMS crews. No injuries were reported.

Neither vehicle had any other occupants.

The Carnduff RCMP, along with officers from the RCMP Combined Traffic Services Section and the Estevan RCMP, attended the scene and assisted with the investigation. An RCMP collision reconstructionist

also attended to process the scene. The Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service and local fire and EMS also attended.

The roads were closed for approximately eight hours as police investigated the collision. The RCMP said road conditions were “extremely poor and icy” at the time of the collision.

An investigation is ongoing.

Hi, I’m Elvis! I’ve been at the shelter for 6 months and I’m ready to jingle my way out of here and into your heart! I’m easy going, friendly and even get along with other cats. You can find me playing with all the toys in the hallway until they roll under the cabinet. (I like to keep them there for safe keeping.) Some say I’m the package deal. If you’re looking for a guy that will play with you or cuddle up with you on the couch then look no further!

Hi I’m Morgan! I’m a high-energ y, fun-loving goofball My fa vourite things to do is playing fetch and tug of war I’m also a big fan of the sno w! The staff a t the shelter say I’m a good learner, and will thrive with someone who can help me reach my fu potential With proper introduction I could get alon with dogs or ca ts I’m a ha ppy, healthy bo y and ca wait to meet my new family!

Southeast College announced receiving a grant to establish the new Centre of Sustainable Innovation. Participating in the ceremony were, from left, city manager Jeff Ward, SE College marketing and communications manager Sheena Onrait, Tania Hlohovsky Andrist with SE College’s strategic development division, college president and CEO Vicky Roy, Municipal Coal Transition Funding Committee members Ashley Galloway (City of Estevan Economic Development), Mayor Roy Ludwig and RM of Estevan Coun. James Trobert

BUSINESS

One of Estevan’s newest businesses held its grand opening celebration Wednesday.

A large crowd attended the festivities at Global Golf Plus, located in the Estevan Market Mall. The event featured demonstrations of the golf and baseball simulators, tours, a ribbon cutting, lunch and more.

Peter Sereggela, who owns the business with Rob Peloquin, said they are thrilled with the response for the business since it opened in late November. Sereggela couldn’t imagine trying this anywhere else.

He praised general manager Sheldon Beatty for his efforts since the business opened and the Estevan Market Mall for being a great place to open a business.

Sereggela said he wasn’t a fan of golf simulators until Peloquin introduced him to the ones that are used by Global Golf Plus. The golf simulators have

Students from the Drewitz School of Dance recently were tested in the jazz and tap examinations for Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers syllabus.

Examiners were Debbie Noce from Toronto and Gwen Bloom from Ottawa. Students worked hard to achieve their goals and progress through the professional examination program.

Results are as follows:

TAP EXAMS: Pre-junior tap: Highly commended plus: McKinley Gabert.

Commended plus: Lakyn Markoski.

Commended: Norah Graham and Aylah Nordin.

Junior 1 tap: Highly commended plus: Harper Eskra.

Commended plus: Lexey Lievaart, Alice Mowchenko and Emma Salkeld.

Commended: Ivy Eskra and Eva Gedak.

Junior 2 tap: Highly commended: Sofia Carritt.

Commended plus: Silver Gardiner and Keira Kessler.

Commended: Aubree Marchuk, Grace Hall, Rowan Grimes and ZelieRoy Cennon.

Pass plus: Madison Zukewich.

Junior 3 tap: Commended: Payton Sernick and Sophia Deitz.

Pass plus: Kadence Grimes, Sierra Mantei and Cana Marsh.

Pass: Ava Mann.

Pre-intermediate 1 tap: Commended plus: Rowyn Siever, Brooke Dzeryk and Peyton Irwin.

Commended: Sophia Fleck, Elliana Wiebe and Mercedes Irwin.

Pass Plus: Sydney Lainton and Scarlett Mercer.

Pass: Rya Strilaeff and Audie-Rae Richardson.

Pre-intermediate 3 tap:

the latest technology, while their baseball counterparts are the first

their kind in

Pass: Adisson Palmer and Samantha Carritt.

JAZZ EXAMS: Junior 1 jazz: Highly commended plus: Lexey Lievaart

Highly commended: Emma Salkeld

Commended: Ivy Eskra Pass Plus: Aubrie Jorgensen

Junior 2 jazz: Highly commended plus: Sofia Carritt and Silver Gardiner.

Commended plus: Keira Kessler, Aspen Mayuk, Zelie Roy-Cennon and Natalie Currie.

Commended: Grace Hall, Rowan Grimes, Madison Zukewich, Eva Gedak and Alice Mowchenko.

Pass plus: Aubree Marchuk, Kayleigh Reed, Mollie Kingdon and Paris Irwin.

Pre-intermediate 1 jazz: Commended: Elliana Wiebe and Brooke Dzeryk.

Pass plus: Sydney Lainton,

Payton Sernick, McKenna Sullivan and Alexis Paton.

2 jazz: Commended plus: Tyann Babyak and Lindsay Mack. Commended: Rowyn SIever, Layla Kitz and Mercedes Irwin.

floorstoreestevan.ca on now in Estevan & Carlyle JANUARY L E A R A N C E CLEARANCE ANNUAL S A L SALEE

The City of Estevan’s 2023 budget received approval from Estevan city council at Monday night’s meeting.

This year’s financial plan does not include an increase to the water consumption rates or the municipal portion of property tax. There could still be a property tax increase for the education share.

Council first studied the budget at a special meeting on Dec. 5, with each of the department heads discussing their plans for 2023. Then the city posted the fiscal plan on its website just before Christmas, giving the public a little more than a month to provide feedback.

City manager Jeff Ward

said the city received just one comment since then. A resident suggested all traffic lights on Fourth Street, Kensington Avenue, King Street and 13th Avenue should have the countdown for the don’t walk sign, reflecting how long it will take before a green light changes to yellow. The city has been gradually installing the countdowns since 2017.

Ward noted Norm Mack, the manager of the public works’ roads and drainage division, has been working with the city’s traffic light distributor so that countdowns are installed as control panels are upgraded.

There has also been discussion of adding a beep for when it is safe for pedestrians to cross.

“I know Norm has a price for that, so we will be working on those items as identified,” said Ward.

Councillor Rebecca Foord noted that last year saw a lot of high-profile upgrades to the community, such as the refurbishment of the water tower and beautification efforts.

“I think it’s important to note that 2023 is also going to be a year of upgrades and big important things happening. They just might not be the face-lift that this [past] year had.”

Councillor Kirsten Walliser added that she has had lots of positive feedback regarding snow removal, as opposed to what has been seen in other parts of the province.

The biosolids incinerator would be an example of the “not-so-flashy” improvements, Walliser said.

“They really do set us up for success moving forward,” said Walliser.

Biosolids are currently being disposed of at the landfill, causing some issues for equipment. It was noted during budget deliberations in December that the city spends about $200,000 just trucking sludge from the wastewater treatment plant to the landfill and treating it there. The incinerator would cost about $225,000.

Those solids can be dehydrated, put into a pellet and incinerated.

The budget also calls for installation of roof HVAC

units for the Estevan Leisure Centre and work on the roof; a new score clock for Affinity Place that is the legacy project from the 2022 Centennial Cup; completion of the Westview outdoor warmup shack; ongoing sidewalk rehabilitation; and continued work on the water main replacement program and residential road improvements.

Councillor Shelly Veroba pointed out that while the city was able to hold the line on property taxes, a lot of communities in Saskatchewan and Alberta are approving increases.

“In the past, I’ve had people saying ‘How do we keep going zero [per cent property tax increases]? It’s due to the proper manage-

“Global Golf Plus had submitted a grant application form sometime ago to the MCTAP [Municipal Coal Transition Assistance Program] … for this assistance. This grant application outlined their business plan along with the economic impact their business would have for the communities responsible for granting the funds from the MCTAP program,” said Smith.

“With diligence on reviewing the grant application by the SSEP group and city, it was determined that Global Golf Plus had met the terms and criteria set out by the groups to be successful in receiving a grant from the MCTAP program.”

ment of the funds that are there, and making sure we apply for different grants that we’re able to do zero again this year.”

Mayor Roy Ludwig thanked city council and administration for getting to this point. He noted that paying down debt has allowed the city to save a lot of money on interest payments. The budget indicates the long-term debt could be $12.9 million by the end of the year.

Councillor Lindsay Clark wanted to know if the snowfall that Estevan received in December would impact this year’s budget. Ward pointed out since the snow happened last year, the invoices would be coded to the 2022 year.

of

Canada for a business like this. The company has been

adding to its offerings since it opened. Steve Smith with the

Southeast Sask. Economic Partnership praised the business. He said SSEP and the City of Estevan played a small part in assisting this new venture.

Pre-intermediate

Pass plus: Sydney Ross, Scarlett Mercer, Aurora McCutcheon, Sophia Fleck, Peyton Irwin and Scarlett Mercer.

Pass: Mercedes Irwin, Audie-Rae Richardson and Rya Strilaeff

Pre-intermediate 3 jazz: Commended: Halle Adams.

Pass plus: Samantha Carritt and Adison Palmer. Intermediate 1 jazz: Commended plus: Jersey Long.

Drewitz students participate in jazz and tap exams

From left, Samantha Carritt, director/teacher Lorie-Gay Drewitz-Gallaway, Adisson Palmer and Halle Adams. Photo courtesy of Drewitz School of Dance

Find all of Your Local News in Print and Online. Follow the Estevan Mercury on Facebook

St. Joseph’s Hospital salutes Carson family

St. Joseph’s Hospital and its foundation recently unveiled a new tribute to long-time supporters.

The Carson Family Atrium is now in the main entrance of the facility, recognizing the years of support from Ron Carson and his family.

It features photos of Ron and Shirley Carson, along with a quote from the Carson family about why they have chosen to support the local hospital.

“It has always been important to my late wife Shirley Carson and me to give back to the communities that supported Carson Energy for many years. We wanted to support the Estevan St. Joseph’s Hospital as best we can, as this facility is always there for us in times of requiring medical assistance,” said Ron Carson.

“Ron and the Carson family have been instrumental in two major additions to patient care at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Firstly, the addition of the CT scan unit [more than] five years ago and again this past year

where their contribution allowed for the expansion of the St. Joseph’s Hospital addiction recovery centre from 20 to 32 beds,” said St. Joseph’s Hospital executive director Greg Hoffort.

“Ron Carson’s generosity through the combined contribution of $1 million was essential to successfully bringing these new services to southeast Saskatchewan and we are very grateful.”

The funds that have been donated by the Carson family have made huge improvements at the hospital, according to a press release.

“The Carson family has been a major part of the enhancements and upgrades made to our hospital. From the CT scanner and diagnostics department to the addiction recovery centre, without their support we can confidently say that we wouldn’t have some of the services that we have here at St. Joseph’s Hospital,” said St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation executive director Lori Gervais.

The new acknowledgement served as a way for the hospital and founda-

Estevan’s SLGA store slated to close Feb. 11

The liquor store operated by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority is entering its final days.

Estevan MLA Lori Carr, who is also the minister responsible for the SLGA, said the store is to shut down Feb. 11. Employees will continue to work at the store until March 3.

“That gives them the opportunity to clean up the store and get inventory ready to ship back to SLGA,” said Carr.

Cleaning the store would include taking down the shelves and making sure everything is ready to transfer over to the building’s new owner. In the case of the Estevan store, which opened in 2005, Carr said they already know the building’s new owners will be the Estevan Market Mall.

“Part of the lease agreement was that when and if the Government of Saskatchewan is no longer running our business out of there, our liquor store, that the building will revert back to the mall. The mall is one that will actually have the option of deciding what happens moving forward.”

The Estevan outlet has 12 employees, with three working full-time and nine part-time, for eight fulltime equivalent positions.

Carr said there are 258 fulltime equivalent staff members in Saskatchewan with the SLGA liquor stores.

Empty shelves are becoming increasingly common at the Estevan location. The only items that have been replenished in the past few months are those that have been deemed as more popular, such as macro-brewery beer, vodka and more. The lower-volume sale items have not been put back on the shelves once they run out.

Come Feb. 11, Carr said they don’t want to have a ton of inventory that has to be moved.

Sask daily papers to be printed at Estevan Web

Two more Saskatchewan daily newspapers are going to be printed at Estevan Web Printing, located just west of Estevan city limits.

The Regina LeaderPost and the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix will both be printed at the local facility, through a limited partnership between Glacier Media, which owns the Mercury, SASKTODAY.ca and other provincial media outlets, and PostMedia, which owns the Leader-

Post and the Star-Phoenix. It’s the latest addition for Estevan Web, which currently has 27 employees. They will also be looking for more staff Plant manager Corey Dornian said this is pretty exciting news for Estevan Web. With this work coming into Estevan, they now print four daily papers, in addition to numerous weekly newspapers and other projects, which will keep them pretty busy moving forward.

“We have to take into consideration that there might be product that would not be available to clients at our public liquor store during this timeframe, but we do know that there are other vendors within the City of Estevan that will be able to meet that demand. So, nobody should have technically gone without something that they wanted,” said Carr.

There will be a small amount of inventory getting replenished between now and Feb. 11.

Carr said they would not run out of stock of some items.

She pointed out this has

been a difficult time for the employees at the SLGA because some of them have been there for a long time.

“Within the workforce adjustment plan … there is a payout that they will get based on years of service and all of that kind of information, but I would assume that depending on their age and where they are in their lives, some of them might retire, and some might decide to go on and get a job in a different industry, find a new opportunity,” said Carr.

Others could opt to work in another liquor store in the city.

There will be an online auction for SLGA’s liquor

retail permit in Estevan. It will be conducted by McDougall Auction. According to the province, these will be held in real time at https:// mcdougallauction.com/new.

These auctions are for the permits only, with no buildings, fixtures or inventory included in the sale.

Winning bidders must still apply and qualify to hold a retail store permit.

Estevan is in the second of sixth auction groups, which will run from Feb. 7-16.

Carr noted that depending who purchases the permit, it might be in a different location than the present SLGA building. SLGA has received a number of inquiries about how the process will work in Estevan.

261649 Savanna Drilling Crescent Point Energy 16-9-9-9 263339 Stampede Drilling Whitecap Resources 14-12-6-6 267074 Betts Drilling Burgess Creek 11-2-6-32 263516 Stampede Drilling Whitecap Resources 6-3-6-6 265597 Stampede Drilling Surge Energy 13-12-5-6 127283 Betts Drilling Burgess Creek 4-2-5-8 263930 Savanna Drilling Crescent Point Energy 13-5-9-8 262617 Stampede Drilling Harvard Resources 15-19-6-15 267650 Stampede Drilling Tundra Oil 12-32-4-4 260077 Precision Drilling Whitecap Resources 8-30-6-13 262505 Stampede Drilling Crescent Point Energy 13-14-5-8 257312 Precision Drilling Whitecap Resources 10-27-5-13 264577 Ensigns Drilling Whitecap Resources 1-15-6-7 265643 Stampede Drilling Crescent Point Energy 12-22-5-8

tion to recognize the support of the generous family.

“We wanted to find a way to truly say thank you

to

Ron and his family. They are a huge part of our hospital and we want to make sure that they are celebrat-

ed by our staff, patients and community,” said Gervais. Ron Carson and family have been recognized

as platinum donors of St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation with over a decade of giving and support.

The atrium at St. Joseph’s Hospital has been named after the Carson family. Photo courtesy of Breanne Van De Woestyne

Many shelves have been empty for a while at the SLGA liquor store in Estevan.

We l c o m e t o a l l c u rl e r s Welcome to all curlers

Tournament of Hearts in Estevan

By David Willberg

The 2023 Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts will run from Jan. 25-29 at Affinity Place. Twelve teams from across Saskatchewan have qualified for the event.

It’s part of what will be a busy stretch for curling in Estevan. Once the Scotties wraps up, the process of preparing for the SaskTel Tankard men’s provincials will begin. That tournament will run from Feb. 1-5, also at Affinity Place.

Scotties-Tankard committee chair Devon Fornwald said they’re pretty much ready to go. The committees have everything finalized, and now they’re eagerly waiting for the games to start.

The process of converting Affinity Place from a hockey arena to a curling rink started on Thursday with the removal of the Plexiglas around the rink. Installation of lights and an overhead camera for TV broadcasts happened Friday. Conversion of the ice from hockey to curling started Saturday.

The ice is ready to go for today.

“Our club members are going to go down and curl Tuesday night at 7 o’clock,” said Fornwald. “There will probably be four sheets of ice going out there, so they get to try the ice out first, and that actually helps the icemaker see what the ice is doing, and

see if he needs to do any little changes to the ice to get it to where he wants it to.”

Wednesday morning the curlers will show up for their assigned practice times to get to know the ice.

The curling will begin on Wednesday night with the opening ceremonies. The opening draw is at 7 p.m. Wednesday. (For the draw schedule, please see page A10).

Fornwald said there is a lot of excitement for the event.

The first eight teams to qualify were announced just before Christmas, and the final four teams advanced through a last-chance qualifier in North Battleford in early January.

“It was good for the people organizing, because we needed to finalize some details with the team services,” said Fornwald.

It helps to have a team with local connections entered. The Cindy Ricci rink, with former Estevan resident Ricci serving as skip, qualified through the last chance.

“A lot of people know them and know their names, so hopefully people come out and cheer them on and get their excitement going and really push them towards winning the event,” said Fornwald.

There are some great teams entered that have won provincial titles in the past, and there are some new teams looking to win a provincial championship for the first time.

Among the teams joining the Ricci rink for provincials will be the defending provincial champion, Penny Barker, and her rink competing out of the Moose Jaw Curling Club.

There will be three teams out of the Sutherland Curling Club in Saskatoon, with Skylar Ackerman, Madison Kleiter and Jessica Mitchell serving as the skips.

Teams skipped by Ashley Howard, Lorraine Schneider and Brooklyn Stevenson are curling out of Regina’s Curling Club.

Also entered will be Sherry Anderson’s rink from the Nutana Curling Club in Saskatoon, Amber Holland from the Kronau Curling Club; Nancy Martin from the Martensville Curling Club, and Robyn Silvernagle from the Twin Rivers Curling Club in North Battleford.

“I think there’s going to be some great curling to come and watch. The women’s curling is getting stronger and stronger, and our teams are always in the fight in the Scotties when they get to the national event,” said Fornwald. “I think having the talent that is coming to play here, those 12 teams, is really going to help Saskatchewan pick a really good team, and they’re going to put on a really good show when they make it to the national Scotties.”

Ticket sales starting go very well.

“Everyone is getting excited. Things are coming together really well, and I think it’s going to be a great event

for the people curling, the organizers, the volunteers and the sponsors,” said Fornwald. “I think we’ve done quite well on our sponsorship area with a lot of the local businesses stepping up to help us out with this event.”

The business community in Estevan is great at helping out whenever possible, he said.

The Scotties-Tankard is expected to have a large economic spinoff. When Estevan hosted the Tankard in 2018, it was believed that the event generated $2 million-$3 million in economic activity for the city.

“The restaurants were full. The hotels were full. The grocery stores – a lot of these people will buy groceries for their hotel rooms to try to cut down on costs a little bit,” said Fornwald.

With two five-day events, Fornwald expects it could be $3 million or $4 million combined from the ScottiesTankard.

“That’s great news in the middle of winter when there’s not a lot going on,” said Fornwald.

Fornwald stressed this event has a great committee that has done a terrific job of organizing the event. They have things so well organized that they have made Fornwald’s job as chairman much easier.

The staff at Affinity Place and the City of Estevan have also been very co-operative, converting dressing rooms to different groups of officials and volunteers and helping to ensure the event happens.

“They do a lot of work to help us out with this event,” Fornwald said.

The Scotties-Tankard should also help boost the club’s profile when it comes to hosting future events. Two weeks after Estevan hosted the 2018 Tankard, the curling club was called to host the Home Hardware Canada Cup of Curling in December of that year.

“That was a great event, too, and a great thing that really showcased Estevan to the rest of Canada and to the world, because we had comments from people from Europe on some of the websites who were saying ‘Wow. Estevan is a great venue for this curling.’”

For full coverage of the Scotties, including photos and stories each day, be sure to visit our provincial news hub at www.sasktoday.ca.

Next week’s edition of the Mercury will have full coverage of the Scotties and a preview of the Tankard.

The process of converting ice to curling occurred Saturday at Affinity Place. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

By David Willberg

The Cindy Ricci rink will be the hometown favourites at the Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Estevan this week, but her rink’s journey to provincials might also be one of the best stories of the tournament.

Ricci, a former Estevan resident who was the provincial title in 1999 as a skip, has qualified for the Scotties. Joining her will be Estevan’s Kristy Johnson at third, second Tamara Kapell and lead Natalie Bloomfield, both of Carlyle. Johnson, Kapell and Bloomfield are all from the Wawota area originally.

Bob Doerr is the coach.

Ricci competed in 2019 while playing with the Amber Holland rink, but her last appearance as a skip was in 1999. She said it feels good to be back.

“I’m a little hesitant about going back, but I was ready to come back to the game, to make sure that I was finding the joy in it again,” Ricci told the Mercury. “It can be very much a business nowadays, with all of these teams that are competing non-stop, and going every weekend.”

Between family and work, she can’t compete as much as some of the other teams, so it felt good to team up with some athletes from the southeast that she used to curl with.

“We’re all like-minded and we get along so great,” said Ricci. “We can’t put as much into it as we did one day, but I think we see a different side of the game now and that’s very enjoyable.”

It’s also great to be representing Estevan at provincials at Affinity Place. She said Estevan was so great to her and her family when they lived here. So many people have messaged her, including friends she hasn’t seen in a long time, to tell her they can’t wait to see her on the ice.

“Hopefully we have that hometown crowd cheering for us,” said Ricci.

The Ricci rink had to go through the last-chance qualifier in North Battleford in early January to make it to provincials. They attended a couple of events on the provincial curling tour during the season, but didn’t get enough points to go directly to provincials.

At the last chance, they opened with a victory, but

then lost two straight. Relegated to the C event, they had to win four straight games to qualify for provincials, and came through, winning all four in convincing fashion.

“The key was being resilient and going out and having fun and just making some shots, not putting a lot of pressure on ourselves, knowing that win or lose, we’re friends on and off the ice,” said Ricci.

Last fall, when watching her son’s hockey tryouts, she realized how much she missed the competitiveness of curling, and at that time she decided to take a shot at provincials.

She messaged Johnson to see if she was still playing. Johnson hadn’t been on

the ice, but the conversation piqued Johnson’s interest. Then Johnson messaged Kapell and Bloomfield about a reunion.

“Within 10 minutes, she said they’re in. And I thought ‘Oh, what have we committed to.’ I told our families we’re just doing this for fun, but you get to your first bonspiel, and you can’t stop the competitive side coming out,” said Ricci. “We all love the game, but it’s also a lot more fun when you win.”

They hadn’t had a lot of opportunities to practice this year, with four players in three different communities. They needed to relearn tendencies on certain shots, and Ricci had to remind herself to focus on the process of the shot and its execution.

They met up this past weekend for some time on the ice, and they gathered in Weyburn on Monday night for a practice session.

“A lot has changed, like the no-tick rule if the rock is touching the centre line, and just so many things that I think have made the game more challenging, but obviously more entertaining and interesting for the fans. We’re just trying to work on those small things that maybe we haven’t been experiencing prior to our exit from curling from a few years back,” said Ricci.

It doesn’t help that one of the first competitions together will be provincials, where several former provincial champions will be entered, and other teams will

be hungry to win a provincial title for the first time.

“Every team is capable of winning it,” said Ricci. “You get somebody like Sherry Anderson, five-time senior women’s national champion, still competing in the ladies’ Scotties.”

There will be a lot of familiar faces at the Scotties, and it has been great to catch up with old friends at the few events where they played this season.

It’s going to be a gruelling five days, she said, but success will come down to mental toughness.

“The team that can get it together the most, in terms of being resilient together, bouncing back together, believing in themselves, that will be the team that comes out.”

Ricci is also grateful to the sponsors who have stepped up and given them the opportunity to compete at provincials.

The Ricci rink will open the Scotties on Jan. 25 against the Lorraine Schneider rink, curling out of the Highland Curling Club. The result will determine when they play next, and who the opponent will be.

The Scotties is a tripleknockout elimination tournament.

“This is a huge undertaking for the city of Estevan to be able to run the women’s and the men’s back to back, and I have no doubt in my mind that this will be one of the best provincials that I’ve ever played in, just because this is the city of Estevan doing it,” said Ricci.

From left, Cindy Ricci, Kristy Johnson, Tamara Kapell and Natalie Bloomfield will represent the Estevan Curling Club at the Scotties. Photo courtesy of Team Ricci

in Estevan during the Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts women’s curling provincials and the SaskTel Tankard men’s provincials, and there will be plenty of great entertainment off the ice throughout the competitions.

The Turnbull RediMix Patch will be open throughout the Scotties from Jan. 25-29, and the Tankard from Feb. 1-5.

There will be a number of attractions for the event, said Michael Keating, who is the chairman of the Scotties-Tankard entertainment committee.

On the Thursday nights of each event (Jan. 26 and Feb. 2), local DJ Dave Elliott will bring his musical Bingo competition, known as Singo, which has proven to be popular when it has been held at the Black Grasshopper restaurant. It will be held at 8, 9 and 10 p.m. both nights.

Scotties schedule

The Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts will have lots of curling in a fiveday span.

Opening ceremonies will be at 6 p.m. on Jan. 25, and the first draw will begin an hour later.

There will be three draws

a day from Jan. 26-28. The games on Jan. 26 start at 9 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. They will be at 10 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. the next two days.

The 3 p.m. match-ups on Jan. 28 will be the last for the preliminary round.

Playoffs begin with the 7 p.m. games that night. The tournament uses a page playoff system, so the winners of the A event and the B event will meet in one contest to determine who goes directly to the final at 3 p.m. on Jan. 29. The loser

Cabarets will be held on the Friday and Saturday nights of the Scotties and the Tankard, too, with DJ Andrew Kinakin coming from Saskatoon to Estevan. Keating said he knows Kinakin quite well, and noted Kinakin has had his own business, Kina-

kin Entertainment, for years, and referred to Kinakin as one of the top DJs in Saskatchewan.

“He is going to be putting on an amazing show, with lasers, fog machines, his disco ball, a huge sound system and huge TVs,” said Keating.

Proceeds from the cabarets will be directed to the curling club.

pong and playing cards for people to enjoy. The cornhole board and the Jenga game are going to be available in a raffle.

Kyle Whitehead, who operates the concession at the Power Dodge Curling Centre, will be serving food each day from 11 a.m. to close.

Admission is free, except for the Thursday lunch and the cabarets.

of that game will compete in the semifinal at 10 a.m. on the 29th.

Meanwhile, the winners of the two C events will meet in the 7 p.m. game on Jan. 28, with the winner advancing to the semifinal and the loser being eliminated.

Also during the Fridays, Bandits Distilling out of Weyburn will at the Patch with free taste testing of their products.

And at Thursday at noon each week, there will be a luncheon for the curlers. If anyone in the public wants to attend the luncheons, admission is $20 per plate. It gives the fans a chance to hear some speakers from CurlSask and meet the curlers.

People can also enjoy music each night, and the curling will air on television on two large smart TVs. And during the day, there will be a cornhole game, large-block Jenga, beer

An event pass or a ticket for that day’s curling will get someone in for free to the Patch. It costs $10 to get into the cabaret without a pass.

Minors will be allowed to come to the patch throughout the tournaments as well, except for on Friday and Saturday nights after 7 p.m.

Keating hopes to see large crowds at the Patch throughout both events. Previously they have had approximately 500 people attend the cabarets.

“We’ll look to get over the 500 mark, but that was a goal we had last time,” said Keating.

Aggregate Crushing and Hauling, and Landscaping and Irrigation, Rural, and Municipal & Oilfield Construction & Oilfield Construction.

Learn where you live with USask nursing

The University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) top nursing student for 2022 may have never entered the nursing program if it wasn’t for the chance to learn close to home. Taylor Fulawka is from Yorkton, and along with 14 classmates, together they pursued a nursing education in Yorkton. The supportive environment where it was possible to live at home rent free and concentrate on studying was a major contributing factor to not just graduating, but excelling. Taylor was awarded the W. S Lindsay Gold Medal in Nursing and the University Prize in Nursing; the top academic nursing awards at USask. the cost of relocating to a major centre was simply not

possible. The College of Nursing’s Learn Where You Live model removes these barriers for approximately 450 nursing students in communities throughout Saskatchewan each year, as these students reside outside of Saskatoon, where the main USask campus is located.

Taylor says many people in Yorkton would not complete the nursing program if they had to leave the community.

Passing the National Council Licensure Examination in fall 2022, Taylor is now working as a registered nurse at Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Taylor’s story highlights why USask’s College of Nursing has taken steps to ensure nursing education is offered throughout the province.

Smaller centres face special challenges in recruiting and retaining health-care professionals. The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven successful in establishing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in rural and northern communities.

gram at distributed sites in La Ronge and Ile-a-la-Crosse in 2012, 65 students have completed their program in northern Saskatchewan. Since the program began in Yorkton in 2014, 63 students have completed their BSN.

When nursing students complete their degree in rural and northern communities, most graduates stay and practice there. Saskatchewan’s rural and northern communities need nurses, who are familiar with the culture, the people, and the rural and remote way of life.

The need for registered nurses has never been greater. Over the next three years, USask is taking responsive steps to expand access to nursing education in the northern and rural regions of Saskatchewan.

By adding additional seats to nursing sites beyond Saskatoon, communities will be able to take advantage of USask’s distributed nursing education infrastructure

and strengths in rural, remote, and Indigenous nursing education.

Taylor has seen health centres in smaller communi-ages. Taylor believes nurses educated in Yorkton and similar centres will be more willing to work in rural settings because they are already from a smaller community.

Taylor felt called to the profession of nursing when Taylor’s grandmother, who used to share stories about practicing as a young nursing aid, was in the hospital, kindness and support.

Our province and the world needs nurses like Taylor, who are smart, talented, and want to be there for others in a time of need.

USask’s College of Nursing is making this possible for students, no matter where they live in Saskatchewan.

For more information about USask nursing programs, please visit nursing.usask.ca.

Saskatchewan highways and high schools are a familiar sight for Landon Heilman. As the student recruitment coordinator for Medicine Hat College (MHC) he’s travelled extensively throughout the province over the years, meeting with students and high school counsellors and sharing all that MHC has to offer.

As a comprehensive community college in sunny Southeast Alberta, MHC is focused on unique student pathways and programs that help learners reach their eduuniversity studies and apprenticeship training in the areas of health care, community services, business, education, science, arts, trades and technology, there really is something for everyone.

improving the lives of those in hospital orliving in a care facility or pursue degree options in nursing or paramedicine and -

ticeship programs including automotive service and welding, or build sought after skills as an information or engineering technologist.-

vices, or explore exciting new specialty programs in Sport & Event Marketing and Management, Sustainable Innovation, or Service Dog and Canine Management Studies.

Education program, discover your creative side with an applied degree in art and design, or start your education with a variety of university studies programs in arts and sciences that build a solid foundation for degree completion elsewhere.

Small class sizes across our programs create more opportunities to engage and build relationships; while work integrated learning provides real world experiences. Flexible delivery options help students balance school and life. Dedicated faculty and staff know you by name.

From application to graduation, MHC strives to be a leader in student support by offering exceptional services trust. Academic advising and coaching, writing support, personal counselling, accessibility services, tutoring, and career

services are all available to MHC students, while a brand opportunities for health, wellness and cultural growth.

Speaking from experience as a former student in MHC’s School of Business, Heilman is passionate about supporting future students on their own path to post-secondary.

“The best part about being a student recruiter at MHC is the opportunity to have a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Being a source of encouragement for someone to take theting to see them walk across the stage during graduation, is my favorite part about my job.”

With all the amenities of a larger centre plus the feel of a small town, there’s lots to love about “The Hat.” Enjoy the natural beauty of the region with the city’s extensive trail system, parks and golf courses, and easy access to Cypress Hills Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands. Medicine Hat also boasts a vibrant arts and entertainment scene featuring exceptional musical talent, sporting events and festivals, and unique local coffee shops, pubs, and retail stores.

Join us for Open House on Saturday, March 4 and discover MHC! Visit mhc.ab.ca for details or call 1-866- 282-8394 to book a tour or appointment.

University of Saskatchewan Nursing Graduate

- Photo submitted by University of Saskatchewan.

A15Mel Murray receives Western Canada Baseball life membership award

A long-time supporter and volunteer in the local sports community has received a Life Member Award from Western Canada Baseball.

Mel Murray was recognized thanks to his 37 years of service with baseball in Estevan and in Saskatchewan. Haley Hayward, who penned an article on Murray for Baseball Manitoba, said Murray is very deserving of this honour.

She noted that in 1985, Murray was elected president of Estevan Minor Baseball and remained in this position until he resigned in 2008. His dedication and passion for the game was obvious during his time with the organization, and he contributed under many different titles, such as a coach, executive member, volunteer and more.

His first experience coaching was with his son’s t-ball squad. He then formed a U11 travelling team and continued coaching through to the 18U division, while also coaching house ball.

In 1994, he guided the Estevan Prairie Coal Haulers 13U team to a provincial title and they went on to participate in nationals in North Bay, Ont. The Estevan team finished fourth. Three years later, Murray’s Estevan 15U team won provincials and again went on to compete in nationals, where they finished fourth again.

After completing the 18U term with his son’s team in 2000, Murray made the decision to return to the U11

level and began developing another travelling team while still coaching house league baseball.

In 2003, he guided the Estevan Luscar 13U AA Haulers to a provincial title and they went on to finish second at Western Canadians in Altona, Man. In 2005, he coached the Estevan 15U AAA Haulers to a provincial title and to nationals in Windsor, Ont., finishing ninth.

In 2008, he submitted a successful bid to host the Western Canada Championships for both 15U and 18U divisions. He coached the 18U team to the gold medal – the first ever for minor ball in Estevan – in his final game as a coach.

Throughout his coaching career, he has also been a major organizer in developing ball diamonds in Estevan. Proactively, Murray took action and was instrumental in strengthening Estevan Minor Baseball and its facilities, beginning the conversation when he noticed areas that needed improvements. The ball diamonds at Cactus Park, as well as the U15 and U18 diamonds at Lynn Prime Park, have all benefitted from his efforts.

He also served 12 years with the parks and recreation board in Estevan and during this time, was appointed chairman of the board for six years. In 1994, he was the recipient of the Merit Award by the Saskatchewan

Parks and Recreation Association. Three years later, he was awarded the Southeast Saskatchewan Volunteer in Sports Award.

Murray went on to also capture the Builder of the Year Award from Saskatchewan Baseball in 2002. This award represented the many hours spent planning, developing and achieving the impressive baseball facility in Estevan. Murray was named Manager of the Year in 2005 and was inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006.

He promoted contributors, both financial and volunteerbased, to become involved. His efforts were successful, and various companies sponsored house teams by pro-

Bruins get one point in La Ronge

The Estevan Bruins picked up one point for a shootout loss during a pair of games at the La Ronge Ice Wolves on the weekend.

The point came during a 5-4 shootout loss on Friday night. Estevan came out flying in the first period, as Mitch Kohner scored 41 seconds into the game and Ilia Chmelevski doubled the lead 87 seconds later. The Bruins were outshooting the

Ice Wolves 7-0 at one point in the frame.

“I thought we had a really good start,” said head coach and general manager Jason Tatarnic. “The first 10 minutes were extremely [good]. We played well.”

Ryan Silzer’s goal midway through the first pulled La Ronge to within one.

Owen Barrow scored in the second period to restore the Bruins’ lead, but goals by

Walker Jerome and Dallyn Peekeekoot 2 1/2 minutes apart tied the game. Tatarnic conceded the Bruins took some costly penalties, but he thought the third Ice Wolves’ goal shouldn’t have counted, as he said there was a “very clear” high stick that kept the puck in the Bruins’ zone before La Ronge scored.

Liam McInnis scored three minutes into the third to give the Ice Wolves their

Bears earn a split in Tisdale

The Estevan Steelhaus

U18 AAA Bears went 1-1 during their weekend trip to Tisdale to play the Trojans.

Estevan opened the twogame set with a 4-3 victory over the Trojans Friday night. Cade Cole’s tally with 17:05 to play in the third period broke a 3-3 tie and held up as the winner.

Evhan Allan, Teigan Semchyshen and Kole Keen had Estevan’s other goals.

Kaden Perron had 35 saves in the victory.

The following night, Estevan was doubled up 6-3 by the Trojans. Keen, Allan and Jase Konecsni scored the Bears’ goals.

Perron was in goal again,

stopping 26 of the 31 shots he faced.

Estevan (8-17-5) sits 10th in the overall standing of the Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League with 21 points. They will visit the Saskatoon Contacts on Jan. 27 and 28, and the leagueleading Saskatoon Blazers on Jan. 29.

first lead of the night, but Kohner notched his second of the game to tie the game again.

Neither team scored in overtime, and Jerome had the only goal in the shootout.

Cam Hrdlicka made 42 saves for the Bruins in his first start of 2023 after returning from injury. Topher Chirico stopped 33 shots for La Ronge.

“If we managed the game better, and played a little bit smarter, I thought we could have come out with the win in that game,” said Tatarnic. The following night, the Bruins lost 6-1. Chmelevski had the Bruins’ lone goal

viding them with uniforms and equipment. Murray also found sponsors for all the travelling teams from 11U to 18U levels.

His time with the Estevan Minor Baseball executive took place over many years. He served as a director of various divisions and his leadership built a strong association in Estevan and the surrounding area. He was the main organizer for numerous provincial championships held in Estevan for all levels.

On top of coaching and field maintenance, he also organized countless events, such as clinics and tournaments, both locally and provincially.

On a provincial level, Mel was involved with Saskatchewan Baseball as a director of

various divisions throughout the years, and also served vice-president and president.

And he has played an instrumental part in Estevan hosting three Western Canadian baseball championships. There was the boys U13 and U15 AAA championships, as well as the girls’ tournament, in 2004. Then there was the aforementioned U18 AAA and U15 AAA tournament in 2008, and this past year, Estevan hosted Westerns in the U13, U15 and U18 AA divisions.

More recently, it was when he returned to Cactus Park a few years ago to watch his grandsons play in Estevan that he became very aware that the ballpark was in need of some serious attention. He returned as a volunteer and connected with the president of Estevan Minor Baseball, Joe Williamson, who asked him to be a member at large. Murray was later asked to serve on the executive as director of facilities and maintenance.

Over the past three years, he has done a complete maintenance upgrade to both ball complexes in Estevan. The fields, grounds, fencing, lights and buildings all received upgrades. These facilities are now once again in prime condition to serve the community for several more years.

With the upgrades finished, Estevan was able to resume hosting provincials and Western Canadians.

Murray was honoured in 2020, having Cactus Park in Estevan renamed Mel Murray Cactus Park. The ceremony was held in 2021.

with less than six minutes to play in the third period, after the Ice Wolves were up 6-0.

“Some things carried over from the previous game,” said Tatarnic.

Jerome had two goals and an assist, while Thomas Wright had a goal and three helpers for La Ronge. Ethan Strik, Dylan Handel and Lleyton Shearson scored La Ronge’s other goals.

A brief brawl erupted after La Ronge’s sixth goal. Tatarnic said Strik is going to be suspended for four games stemming due to the altercation, and that will be the only discipline from the league.

Hrdlicka made 35 saves for the Bruins. Chirico

stopped 37 shots for La Ronge.

Jagjeevan Phangura suffered an injury on Friday’s game that prevented him from playing Saturday. He’s out day to day. Dan O’Neill was out of the lineup for both games due to injury, but is expected to return this coming weekend, and forward Cody Davis continues to recover from the ankle injury that he suffered Nov. 12.

The Bruins (23-17-12) will be back on the ice when they visit the Flin Flon Bombers on Jan. 27 and 28. It will be the Bruins’ first games in Flin Flon since the 2022 SJHL final, which the Bruins won in seven games.

Mel Murray, left, pictured during the dedication of Mel Murray Cactus Park in 2021, is now a life member for Western Canada Baseball. File photo

ESTEVAN FARMERS MARKET

POP UP MARKET

We are having two Pop Up Sales at the Estevan Market Mall. Enjoy the curling at the Scotties/Tankard and support small local businesses!

Saturday, January 28 & February 4 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

IMPACT CHILDHOOD FAIR

FOR CHILDREN BORN IN 2019

Join in for a variety of fun, interactive stations geared to boosting your child's development. Please contact the EEY Family Resource Centre @ (306) 634-7233 Monday, January 30 10:00 - 12:00

MAKE MUSIC WITH FRIENDS ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST PARISH HALL

Do you play a musical instrument and like meeting interesting people? Do you like to get together and play along with others? Please contact (306) 421-7538 for further information. Monday, January 30 1:00 to 4:00

A young hockey official from Bienfait has been recognized for his commitment and willingness to improve.

Earlier this season, Barrett Fleck was announced as the Most Improved Official by Hockey Saskatchewan for Zone 1, which encompasses southeast Saskatchewan. He was saluted by his hometown on Jan. 14, prior to the start of the Bienfait Coalers’ Big Six Hockey League home game against the Wawota Flyers.

In a bio, Hockey Saskatchewan said that Fleck embarked on his seventh season as an official in 2021-22, even though Fleck was just 16 at the time. He has proved to be someone who truly has a passion for the role, as well as a love for officiating and the game of hockey.

“As a young fellow, Barrett would often be at games and track down senior and

experienced officials in the crowd, pick their brains or just say hello whenever he had the opportunity,” Hockey Sask. said.

In 2021-22, Fleck attended his first Sask. First U15 regional camp in Lumsden as an official. Despite being one of the younger officials at the camp, Hockey Sask. said he showed a lot of promise and understanding for his role.

“He has taken in any coaching tips he can to continue to improve and develop as an official who primarily works grassroots hockey in the southeast corner of the province.”

Hockey Sask. said the criteria for this award includes an official who has shown the most improvement within their officiating calibre through their development in clinics, camps and on-ice efforts.

The Estevan Southland Pulse U15 A Bearcats blanked the Weyburn Gold Wings 1 2-0 on Saturday at the Power Dodge Arena in South Saskatchewan Female Hockey League action.

Elizabeth Fornwald and Kaybree Fonstad scored in the first period to give the Bearcats all of the offence they needed. Fonstad’s goal came with 16 seconds remaining in the opening frame.

Kayla Mitchell earned the shutout in goal for Estevan.

Estevan (7-6-2) will visit the Regina Rebels White on Jan. 27 and the Rebels Gold on Jan. 28. Then they host the Weyburn Gold Wings 2 on Jan. 29 at 3:15 p.m. at the Power Dodge Arena, and the Borderland Badgers on Jan. 31 at 7:15 p.m., also at the Power Dodge Arena. •••

The Estevan IG Wealth Management U13 AA Bearcats lost 3-1 to the Weyburn Wings on Jan. 17. Morgan Hase opened the scoring with 43 seconds to play in the first period.

Taylor Short was in goal for the Bearcats.

The two teams were scheduled to meet again Jan. 24 in Lampman. (Results were not available at press time).

The Bearcats will visit the Northeast Aces on Jan. 27, the Prince Albert Foxes on Jan. 28 and the Saskatoon Hurricanes on Jan. 29. •••

The Estevan Steel Reef U13 A Bearcats lost 9-2 to the Borderland Badgers on

January 28th

A Day for Remembering the Victims of Abortion

On January 28, 1988, the Supreme Court of Canada issued the Morgentaler decision which struck down abortion

Prayer for the Preborn Children

rie

Both games were played at the Power Dodge Arena.

Sadie Grimes and Allie Lainton had the goals for the Bearcats against the Badgers.

Adalyn Christopherson was in goal for both games. The Bearcats (1-13) will visit the Weyburn Gold Wings on Jan. 25.

Apex Bruins win three in three days

The Estevan Apex U18 AA Bruins continued to roll in league play, winning three times in three days.

Estevan started with a 5-1 win over the Notre Dame Hounds in Wilcox on Friday night. Ryder Miller, Emmett McCarthy, Kobe Wotta, Carter Beck and Tayson Dietze had Estevan’s goals, while Ty Fehrenbach made 26 saves to get the victory.

The following day, Estevan edged the Regina Vics 3-2. McCarthy’s second of the game midway through the third period proved to be the game winner. He also assisted on Estevan’s other goal, scored by Talys Brock.

Ty Fehrenbach stopped 29 shots to get the win.

The Bruins returned to Wilcox on Sunday and defeated the Hounds 4-3 in overtime. Declyn Henderson scored his second of the game 22 seconds into the extra session to lift Estevan to the win.

McCarthy and Jordan Marcotte also scored.

Carley stopped 22 shots to get the win.

Estevan (24-3-3) will visit the Vics again on Jan. 28 and Weyburn on Jan. 29. They lead the Saskatchewan AA Hockey league’s U18 division with 51 points.

•••

The Estevan TS&M U15 AA Bruins dropped a 7-1 decision to the Regina Pat Blues on Saturday in Regina.

Gunner Moore had Estevan’s lone goal.

Jaxon Kuchinka made 23 saves and also assisted on Moore’s goal.

Estevan (4-13-2-1) will

visit the Prairie Storm on Jan. 29 in Southey.

The Estevan Meter U13 AA Bruins edged the Regina Blues 5-4 on Friday. Caleb Crossman had the winner midway through the third period. Mason Schmidt scored twice, while Owen Light and Logan Hunt also had goals.

Easton Pushie stopped 41 of the 45 shots he faced to get the win.

Estevan (3-17) will visit the Swift Current Broncos on Jan. 28 and the Regina Mustangs the following day. •••

The Estevan Ironside Energy U11 AA Bruins went 2-2 at the George Watson Tournament in Regina. Penn Tytlandsvik’s third goal of the game gave the Bruins a 5-2 edge, and they held on for the victory. Ethan Phillips had Estevan’s other goals and added two assists.

Their next game was an 8-5 loss to the Saskatoon Sonic Aces. Phillips had three goals and Tytlandsvik and Braxton Shier also scored.

Their third game was a 10-5 win over the Regina Mustangs. Phillips had four goals and two assists while Tytlandsvik had three goals and two helpers. Shier, Nash Cameron and Kase Salkheld also scored for Estevan.

Their final game was an 8-3 loss to the Saskatoon Kodiak Aces. Phillips had two goals and Kolter Snell also scored.

Ty Blackburn was in goal for the first and fourth games, while Jack Holden was the goalie for the second and third games.

Bienfait Coalers coach Laurie Herzberg, left, presents an award to Barrett Fleck. Photo courtesy of Bill Mann

Jan. 20 and 5-1 to the Prai-

Storm the following day.

Olivia Hockey notched the lone goal against the Storm.

Shyla Merritt (6) and Rory Tatarnic (5) keep Weyburn away from Bearcats’ goaltender Kayla Mitchell during Saturday’s game in Estevan. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Ida “Jean” Wanner 1924 - 2023

Jean passed away at the Estevan Regional Nursing Home, Estevan, Sask. on January 13, 2023 at the age of 98.

Jean’s memory will be forever cherished by her three sons: Delmont Wanner, Trent (Lenora) Wanner and Myles Wanner; two daughters: Connie (Lennard) Wolos and Judy (Russel) Haukeness; son-in-law Richard (Cheryl) Gedak; sister Alice Kuntz; 14 grandchildren: Kirby (Francine) Wanner, Kim Wanner (Marshall Andrucho), Chad (DoHee) Wanner, Bruce (Patricia) Gedak, Douglas (Celsa) Gedak, Mark (Tammy) Gedak, Andrea (Justin) Hunter, Loni (Kris) Hollingshead, Layne (Veronica) Wolos, Jason (Geneva) Haukeness, Chandra Haukeness (Cory Yanko), Lindsay Wanner (Justin Drinnan), Sienna (Richard) Kurtz and Carter Wanner; 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great granchild, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

She was predeceased by her husband Joseph Wanner; daughter JoAnn Gedak; daughter-in-law Cathy Wanner; parents: William & Sophia (nee Bell) Campbell; sisters: Edith Campbell, Margaret (John) Abbott and Patricia (Cliff) Mitchell; brothers: Bryce (Geraldine) Campbell, Hilton (Bina) Campbell and Hugh Campbell; sister-in-law Ida Wanner; parents-in-law: Alphonse and Matilda Wanner; brothersin-law: Jake (Clara) Wanner and Christian (Lenora) Wanner.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Estevan, with Rev. Sathiadas Antony the celebrant. A luncheon followed in the parish hall. Interment will take place at Souris Valley Memorial Gardens.

Those wishing to pay tribute to Jean via a donation in her memory may do so directly to the Creighton Lodge Trust, 1028 Hillcrest Drive, Estevan, SK S4A 1Y7, Estevan Regional Nursing Home Auxiliary, 1921 Wellock Road, Estevan, SK S4A 2B5 or the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, 1176 Nicholson Road, Estevan, SK S4A 0H3.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan provided care to the Wanner family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

Leonard Gary Zimmerman

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our youngest brother Leonard Gary Zimmerman of Estevan, Saskatchewan on January 11, 2023, at the age of 58 years in Red Deer, Alberta.

Gary passed away peacefully in his sleep with complications from a prior surgery received in 2018. Gary was predeceased by both of his parents, Lin and Emily, and brothers Brian and William.

Gary is survived by his siblings, Bary (Jeannete), Gregory, Linette (Gerald) Scatterty, and Dominick (Colette), numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A heartfelt thank you to his many friends for their friendship, care, consideration, and attention provided to our brother.

Gary enjoyed the simpler things in life. A good conversation, a good story, a table full of family and friends, and time to himself for the sports he loved. Motorcycling, skateboarding, hockey, football, golf, and most importantly, fishing. He truly loved fishing.

A celebration of life and ash spreading will occur at Beaver Lake Recreational Area, located 95 km southwest of Red Deer in the early summer 2023. You are welcome to participate and can contact Dominick Zimmerman by email at Dominick@shaw.ca for additional details.

Those so wishing to make donations are welcome to consider the Canadian Mental Health Association, 5017 50th Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 4B2. They can be reached by telephone at 403-3422266 for the arrangement of your donation.

Parkland Funeral Services in Red Deer is caring for the Zimmerman family - Mr. Ryan Johns - Funeral Director 1-800-4617421.

Richard Earl Elliott 1964-2023

Richard Elliott, late of Estevan, SK passed away at his home on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at the age of 58 years.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Fenton and Aileen (Harris) Elliott.

Richard is survived by his sister Marilyn (David) Purvis and his brothers, Donald and Harold Elliott.

Richard will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He was a man with a big heart who loved people and would do whatever he could to help anyone. He loved to work on cars and built quite a few back to new. Richard was kind and generous and we always knew he was there for his family.

You will always be remembered, your memories will make us smile.

The Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 26 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m and the Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. with Jeri-Lee Jones officiating. Both services will be held at Hall Funeral Services, Estevan, SK. Interment will take place at Souris Valley Memorial Gardens at a later date in February.

Please visit www.hallfuneralservices.ca for the live stream details.

If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan, 1738 Quebec Ave., Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9 or to the Canadian Diabetes Association,917 A Albert St., Regina, SK S4R 2P6 in memory of Richard.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for Richard’s familyYvonne Clark, Funeral Director.

Techs, Heavy Equipment Techs - Journeyman, Apprentices, and CVIP/ Truck Techs. View Open Roles www. rockymtn.com/careers. Relocation and Signing Bonus Offered.

Estevan gallery invites the public for Art Night

The Estevan Art Gallery and Museum is to host an Art Night on Jan. 27.

EAGM director/curator Amber Andersen said this event will be a little less formal and more intimate than traditional opening artist talks, with more time dedicated to interaction with artists. The event will also wrap up the two projects the EAGM currently has on display.

“[First], this is going to be a celebration that lines up two months of Maker Space residency,” Andersen explained.

For close to two months, artist Emily Ellis was using the EAGM’s Gallery II as her studio, working on a new stop-motion animation project. The Maker Space residency allowed the public to observe live how art is fabricated and made.

During the Art Night Ellis will walk guests through her studio space and talk about the project.

The night will also bring the other exhibition – 8 Rooms, currently on display in Gallery I – to a close with a talk from four out of eight participating artists.

“We’re fortunate to have Shirley Brown, Barb Flemington, Seema Goel and also Suzie Smith,” Andersen said. “They’re also going to give brief talks about their practice, a little insight into the whole project.”

Eight Rooms is a joint project, in which two artists selected the other six to partake. It was created during the pandemic isolation times.

Artists were invited to create their own rooms, and the only restriction they had was that they had to have a portal

into their room and a portal out of their room. All rooms were then used in an animation, depicting a fantastic adventure of two characters.

“The idea was that they had to work within confines so that the two characters – Sunni and Sarah, protagonists in animation – would be able to get in and out of all the rooms. And once all the rooms were completed, Anita Lebeau, who’s the animator, met with all the artists and talked about how maybe the animation could work with their art background,” Andersen explained.

“The film uses all eight of the rooms that are on display in the gallery. And the actual finalized animation is there as well.”

During the Art Night, the artists will give a little bit of insight into the project, she added.

The second edition of the Energy Dash and Splash – a polar bear swim preceded by an optional run/walk/bike/ cross-country ski or snowshoe jaunt – is slated for March 11 at the Boundary Dam beach.

The fun and sporty community event will be a fundraiser for Fresh Air Fitness, an outdoor, free-of-charge gym located at Woodlawn Reginal Park.

Registration for the event is now open, and Peggy Rohatyn, who runs Fresh Air Fitness along with Debbie Knight, said they already started receiving applications.

“We are hoping it’ll be bigger and better and we’re hoping to have a good turnout,” Rohatyn said.

The splash part – the po-

lar dip – will be the main attraction. But anyone joining the event will also have the option to start the day with a two, four or five-kilometre dash on anything that gets you moving. Runners can

also opt for any other distance to get warmed up and build up courage for the “dam cold dip”. While some participants will be part of the “dash” part of the event, those who wanted to do the

The EAGM will have Michael’s coffee and cookies for guests, as well as other refreshments and snacks.

“It will be a unique night

for you to get out of the house and see something different and get a little bit of culture in your life,” Andersen noted.

water to do the dip,” Rohatyn said, adding that last year there were a few people who opted for the dip only.

Rohatyn noted the second edition of the Dash and Splash will be pretty similar to the original one they hosted in March 2022.

About 50 people partook in the inaugural event, and Rohatyn said they hope to have closer to 100 this year. She pointed out that 100 is their limit, as they need to control the situation and keep an eye on participants to ensure safety. But the organizers are really looking forward to more people enjoying the unique setting Estevan has.

“There are very few places anywhere that have open water all year. So, to be able to do it is pret-

Doors open at 7 p.m., and the event is to start at about 7:30 p.m. No pre-registration is required and admission is free.

ty good,” Rohatyn said. “We’re just lucky.”

There will be hot dogs, hot chocolate and towels available. The organizers will start bonfires for participants to warm up, with Tyros Tree Service supplying wood. Terry Germain with Century 21 will provide a trailer for changing, and there will be bathrooms available at the location. Rohatyn also thanked Woodlawn Regional Park for their partnership.

To register you can go online at events.runningroom.com/hm/index.php, stop by Henders Drugs in Estevan, or get a hold of Rohatyn at 306-415-0040 or Knight at 306-461-4640. There is a simple form to be filled in, and the participation fee is $40.

Hochstein pleads guilty to armed stando ff charges

The man at the centre of a brief armed standoff in Estevan last August has pleaded guilty to numerous charg-

es, while others have been stayed.

Jordan Hochstein pleaded guilty Thursday in Estevan

Provincial Court to the following charges: one count each of unsafe storage of a firearm, possessing a firearm

while prohibited from doing so, possessing firearms without a licence and resisting arrest; three counts of uttering threats; and two counts of breaching a release order.

Hochstein received a 22-month conditional sentence order and a five-year firearms prohibition.

The following charges were stayed: one count of taking a hostage by confining and uttering a threat, as well as uttering threats, possessing a firearm for a purpose dangerous to the public and possessing a firearm while prohibited from doing so; two counts of mischief; and five counts of breaching a release order.

The incident occurred on Aug. 5, 2022. The EPS was alerted to a residence in the 1300-block of Eighth Street. The situation developed into what the EPS described as an armed standoff with a barricaded person and a potential hostage.

The Weyburn and Estevan Police Services’ Joint Tactical Support Team, along with crisis negotiators and extra patrol members, were called in for support. Following a brief period of

negotiations with Hochstein, he surrendered without further incident.

An elderly subject, known to Hochstein, was in the residence and was unharmed.

Three moose in a backyard

A Midale woman had a surprise waiting for her in her backyard on Jan. 17.

Three surprises, to be exact.

Three moose – a mother and two babies – were in Jennifer Biette’s backyard at about 11:30 a.m. She looked out her window and saw them eating off of a tree. Biette doesn’t know how long they were there, as

they hadn’t done anything to draw her attention.

She noted the moose had been in the town for a while, and they found their way into her backyard. This was the first time that she knows of in which the moose had been on her property.

Biette said she was startled when she saw them, but then she watched them for a while.

dip only will go into the water.

“We’ll start the runners off, and then as they’re out, we’ll get anybody who wants to just do the dip and we’ll send them off into the

Maker Space artist in residence Emily Ellis will be at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum to talk about her animation project. File photo

The first Energy Dash and Splash took place at Boundary Dam in March 2022. File photo

Jan. 17. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Biette

Flashback –Jan. 24, 1979

December was exciting. We recently had a few new residents come into our home, including Ivadelle G., Bob S. and Les H. Welcome to our home.

Many activities were planned for January, including Bingo, card games, crokinole, bowling, bean bag toss, shuffleboard and magnetic darts, to list a few.

The last Friday of the month is loonie Bingo, followed by wine and cheese or fruit juice for anyone not wanting wine.

Outings for December included Make Music with Friends, an all-time favourite.

In January, we have one birthday. Anne J. Celebrated her 94th birthday. Happy birthday to Anne.

January has seen our home have to say good-bye to a couple of long-time residents, Rose Z. and Adaline D. They will be missed by all.

Events for January included another outing to

Make Music with Friends. Also there will be a trip to Walmart and Blackbeard’s Restaurant for lunch.

Entertainment this month included the Caragana Ramblers, Laurie Fornwald, Lisa Kuntz, Wilma and Val, Keith and Gary, the Szakacs Family and Susan Shepard.

In December, an ice cream birthday social was

enjoyed by the residents. It was a great time with ice cream and visiting for everyone.

Dec. 23 was our resident Christmas party. Thank you to Wilma and Val for the beautiful music and sing-a-long. There were gifts to open for everyone. The excitement and awe of the residents was great; they were all so very hap-

py and appreciative of the gifts received.

Thank you to the secret Santa tree at Recharge. It was a great job, and the gifts that were given by the secret Santa’s put a smile on the faces of all. What a great gift that was.

December continued to be wonderful, as the residents enjoyed a Twinkle tour on the 28th. Every-

one truly enjoyed the nice weather and the beautiful light displays around the city. The Festival of Lights in Woodlawn Regional Park was spectacular. The residents were delighted with the evening.

Thank you to all who lit up our city so beautifully.

Dec. 30 was the New Year’s Eve party for our residents; what a great time.

Entertainment was provided by the Can’t Hardly Wait Playboys. Lunch was served after our entertainment.

The ball was dropped at 9 p.m. and noisemakers were blown. Fun was had by all.

Thank you to all who helped the residents of our home have a very merry Christmas.

Happy New Year to all from our home to yours.

The Creighton Lodge Trust Committee has announced the details for its largest fundraiser of the year.

The event will be held at the Power Dodge Curling Centre. It will start with cocktails at 6 p.m. and supper and entertainment to follow. This year the lodge is bringing a Family Feudtype game to Estevan.

Lodge manager Shelly Veroba said individuals will be called up rather than groups. People can submit their name to be called up on stage.

There will also be a live auction and a dance. Everyone in attendance, regardless of whether they play the game, will be entered to win a prize.

The people bringing the

game to Estevan have been here previously.

Since the fundraiser will be in the curling club for the first time, the fundraiser will be able to accommodate more people than ever before. Veroba said they had 322 at last year’s Duelling Pianos cabaret, and this year they want to have more than 400.

“This year we wanted to make sure that we have enough room, and so we found out that the curling centre is available at that time, so we have reserved it,” said Veroba.

Interest in the fundraiser has been high. Most of the people who attended last year have said they would like to return this year, Veroba said, and other people who didn’t attend

last year have said they want to be there this year.

“We have a lot of support in Estevan and the surrounding communities,” said Veroba.

The lodge always gets corporate tables from the five RMs that jointly own the facility, along with the City of Estevan, the business community, and the families of current, former and future residents.

It’s the one fundraiser of the year for the trust committee, which is a member agency for the United Way Estevan.

“We’re just looking to have a really good time while earning money for one of our next projects,” said Veroba. “That will be a pretty big one that we’re looking to take on.”

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be directed towards an expansion of the lodge’s kitchen, which would allow them to accommodate more people for meals.

“Our kitchen is 60 years old, it’s in need of some renovations, and … our plan is going to be just to build a brand new one and then we can turn the existing one into more dining room space,” said Veroba. They currently feed about 43 people for the noon meal and 31 for supper, and in the past couple of years, that number has been increasing.

If they were to renovate the kitchen, it would have to be shut down. So they’re looking at adding another space at the east end of the

building to create a new kitchen.

And once there is more dining room space, they can serve meals to more people.

“We do have a lot of people in the community who will phone in and inquire about our meals, so by adding more space for people to eat, we’re also increasing even the capacity of how many people and how many family members in general can come and eat,” said Veroba.

The expansion will be a multi-year project. This year’s task will be finding an engineer design group who can determine the new kitchen’s appearance and projected cost. It’s a similar process to when they did the expansion of the lounge. They started

planning in 2011 and it was constructed in 2015, because they needed to have the money before they could begin construction.

“The kitchen will be the same where once we find out how much … money we already have in place, then we’ll be able to figure out how much we have left to fundraise and how long it will take for us to do it,” said Veroba.

She believes the cost will be between $600,000 and $700,000, but she admits they might be off Tickets for the fundraiser are $100 each or $800 for an eight-person corporate table. They can be purchased from any member of the trust committee or by calling the lodge at 306634-4154.

Members of the Estevan Bantam A hockey team for 1977-78 received trophies at their wind-up party in January 1979. Back row, from left, Scott Parker, Darcy Kvamme, J. Salaway (coach), Colin Friess, Kevin Curtis, Kirby Floen and Rob McKechney Front row, Blaine Friess, Brent Frehlick, Rob Lesiuk and Rob Reiter

Frost caused plenty of power failures in the southeast

The recent frost in southern Saskatchewan caused problems for SaskPower on Friday.

“The southern part of the province has had some pretty consistent weather that has been ripe for frost buildup on everything,” said Scott McGregor, a consultant for media relations and issues management for SaskPower.

“The lack of sun, the excessive humidity and the warmer temperatures have all made it a perfect breeding ground for a build-up of frost, not just on our infrastructure but on everything.”

At the peak, around 10,000 customers were without power. SaskPower worked Friday to restore electricity to customers in pretty large chunks, McGregor said. As of 4 p.m. on Friday afternoon, about 1,100 customers were still without power.

SaskPower hoped to have power restored to all customers by the end of the day Friday. The weather did

not slow them down.

At one time, there was roughly 3,300 customers without power in or close to Estevan. SaskPower also reported power outages in many southeast communities.

Swift Current and Moose Jaw were among the other communities affected.

“Wherever there has been very heavy fog buildup in the past few days, we’ve seen some outages correspond with that,” said McGregor.

McGregor noted that in these situations, there’s always a risk for downed power lines and infrastructure damage. If anyone encounters a downed line or other issues at any time, he asks them to please keep back a safe distance and call 3102020 to get a technician out there as quickly as possible.

“The line might not look energized, but it very well might be, so keeping a safe distance is very important,” he said.

The Lord is my shepherd

As my 20-month-old granddaughter pushed her plastic shopping cart through our house, she ran into the transition strip separating the living room’s flooring from that in the kitchen.

It stopped her in her tracks and so she turned, looked up at me, held her hand out and said, “help!” It was not a demand. She was not mad or frustrated. She just realized that she had come up against something she could not fix on her own.

After I lifted the cart over the transition strip, she said “thank you” and carried on down the hallway.

Unfortunately, I am not like her. My pride makes it

Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ

hard to ask for help. My jealousy makes it difficult to be thankful. For too many years, I lived under the illusion that I got to where I am on my own, but the truth is that many peo-

ple have helped me over the years. God has been guiding me even when I did not know it. I would be better off if I learned to ask for help and cultivated an attitude of thankfulness more often.

Maybe this is part of what Jesus meant when he said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).

We like to imagine that

we are the adults in the room, but if we saw correctly we might see that we are actually the children. We have what we have and are where we are because God has guided us there. Best of all, we are never left alone. When we understand those truths, maybe asking for help and being grateful would come more naturally.

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he re-

Firefighters respond to rollover, other calls

The Estevan Fire Rescue Service members responded to four calls last week, including two road accidents.

On Jan. 17 at about 6:30 p.m., fire crews responded to a two-vehicle collision on the west side of the city.

Firefighters were called to help with cleaning up the scene.

“We didn’t respond directly to the crash, but we were called in to assist with the fluids spill. So, we went over there and cleaned that

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

MAYOR’S MESSAGE:

Reminder that the Viterra Scotties start Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 6:00 at Affinity Place.

up after the fact,” said Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies.

Another vehicle got into an accident on Jan. 18 at about 6:30 p.m. Fire crews were dispatched to a singlevehicle rollover at the junction of Highways 47 and

361. Davies said there were no entrapments or injuries, so crews made sure all was well at that scene and then returned to the station.

Earlier in the week, on Jan. 16, firefighters responded to a commercial fire

alarm that went off on the northwest side of Estevan. It was quickly found that the alarm was caused by some maintenance work being done at the location, and no emergency was occurring.

Another call for service

freshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (Psalm 23).

came in on Jan. 21 at about 5 p.m. A fire alarm went off on the west side of the city. Crews responded and determined it was cooking-related and no emergency was occurring, so firefighters stood down and returned to the station.

Traffic Bylaw 2016-1963

Depositing

Substances

53. (1) No person shall deposit any natural substances on any highway, public sidewalk, boulevard or ditch within the City of Estevan (3) 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. * In the event that this subsection is not complied with, the City may remove such snow, ice or other obstructions at the expense of such occupants or owner, and in the event of the non-payment of such expense, such expense may be charges against the property as a special assessment to be recovered in like manner as and with the taxes.

Power lines were weighed down by hoarfrost in some areas last week. Photo by Christine Jones