Estevan Mercury 20240327

By David Willberg

For many in southeast Saskatchewan, it was the news they were waiting to hear.

The Government of Saskatchewan announced on March 20 it was giving the green light for fundraising to proceed for a new MRI scanner at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Estevan. The hospital’s foundation will be tasked with raising the full $6.5 million cost of the project, but there is a $2 million head start, thanks to a donation by Elaine Walkom.

There is no money in the provincial budget for the MRI, but the government has committed to provide the required operational funding for the machine, which will be located in a renovated diagnostic imaging area of the hospital.

Walkom said she was “pleasantly surprised” when she found out the project would be proceeding.

“I had thought there might be a little resistance, and we actually were gearing up a little for that,” Walkom said in an interview with the Mercury and SaskToday.

She believes the scanner at St. Joe’s will help a lot of people, not only in Estevan, but throughout the southeast.

“Going for an MRI is stressful to start out with, but this takes some of the stress out of it, knowing you don’t

have to drive for two or three hours, and it’s going to take a big burden off the province, too, having one extra one in our area,” she said. Walkom looks forward to seeing renovations begin at the hospital, and she is anticipating the day when the MRI service begins.

Since the government gave its blessing, she has had a lot of messages thanking and congratulating her. She credited Dean Martens of Alameda, who has also been an advocate for the project, for being “such a force”.

The provincial government has made its biggest commitment yet towards a new Estevan Regional Nursing Home.

The government announced in its 2024-25 budget last week that it was providing $2.5 million towards the detailed design phase of the long-awaited project.

“We’ve done the needs assessment, the business case has been completed and now the next phase will start to be designed,” said Don Kindopp, the chairman of the new nursing home committee.

three years. Kindopp said he was not expecting $2.5 million this year but he knew the amount they receive would indicate the phase they would enter.

Walkom said she will continue to support and advocate for the project. She also expects to meet with corporate donors. “Estevan and area is usually very generous with this sort of thing … and I sure hope they are. Any individual donation towards it is a big help for everybody. A little adds up a lot when there’s a lot of people contributing,” said Walkom.

It was revealed six months ago that Walkom had offered the $2 million, only to have the Ministry of

scheduled to meet on April 2 to discuss the document. The business case calls for a much larger project than the initial plan of 70 beds to replace the existing nursing home.

One option would be a 167-bed facility that would replace the current nursing home and long-term care at St. Joseph’s Hospital and increase the current capacity in Estevan. The other would be a 129-unit facility that would complement the 38 beds at St. Joseph’s longterm care.

The government committed $275,000 to the project in 2021, $200,000 in 2022 and $1 million last year, for a total allocation of $1.475 million in

“The 2.5 [million dollars] is a significant amount, and that would be used up in starting design, and design means more than, as I understand it, just drawing up paper,” said Kindopp. “It means the soil specs and all of the other kinds of things that you need to get together to determine foundations and pilings and parking lots, and sewer and water.”

The provincial government presented the business case for the project at a meeting on March 8. The committee is

It means the new nursing home could cost more than double the initial projected amount of $40 million, which means the new nursing home committee would have to re-

sume fundraising efforts to meet its 20 per cent commitment. It also means a potential change in location from adjacent to St. Joseph’s Hospital to a parcel of land to the west of the hospital.

Construction would begin regardless of whether the new nursing home committee has 20 per cent of the costs. The committee has nearly $9 million.

“Now that we have some idea of where the government [stands] and the options presented to us … we’ll have to discuss fundraising strategies and what we will do in that area,” said Kindopp.

Another meeting with the committee and provincial government has not been scheduled.

Health reject it. Walkom’s contribution would have covered the cost of purchasing the scanner and the training of two technicians. She wanted to make the donation in memory of her late husband Grant, and as a way to say thank you to the community for the support they have shown her family over the years. Since that time, she has remained in contact with Emmanuel Health, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Estevan MLA Lori Carr. Multiple. A2 » FOUNDATION PAGE

The diagnostic imaging area at St. Joseph’s Hospital will be the home for Estevan’s new MRI scanner.

General contractor selected for Fourth Street project

The work is underway on the downtown revitalization project for the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Fourth Street.

Estevan city council selected the general contractor for the project during Monday night's meeting. In a report to council, city manager Jeff Ward wrote there was only one bidder. The submission amount was for $10,661,792 and was awarded to ASL Paving.

Now that the contractor has been awarded, Ward said the project, the city and Associated Engineering can reduce the scope of the project or change parts of the design to ensure they are within the budget.

"ASL has done work in this type of project very recently and very successfully, and I think they are a qualified contractor, and through all the rating and grading that Associated Engineering gave

them, they had a very high score," Ward said.

Associated Engineering completed a request for qualification for the downtown revitalization project and recommended ASL Paving.

The federal government has granted the city $7.75 million through the Canada Coal Transition Initiative, administered by PrairiesCan.

Coun. Shelly Veroba said she has received quite a few inquiries about the project, and she said it was good to have people reach out and spark conversation. A lot of those who called her just wanted to have questions answered.

"Once we had the conversations with those who reached out, I would say all the people I spoke with were satisfied, and they were appreciative of the $7.75 million … federal grant … that is coming to the City of Estevan and not going to one of the other

cities that would have been on the list had we been denied funds," said Veroba. Coun. Rebecca Foord added that now the general contractor is in place, they will be able to answer a lot more questions.

"We are more than happy to have that dialogue and to keep those conversations open, and when we know, everyone else will know," said Foord.

Some work on the project has already started. The 1100 block of Fourth Street was closed, with no through traffic for both east and westbound vehicles, on Sunday morning due to construction work. This closure included the sidewalks.

Also, on March 29, the 1200 block of Fourth Street will be closed with no through traffic affecting both east and westbound traffic from 6 a.m.noon due to construction work. This closure includes north and south sidewalks.

Detour signs will be in place for eastbound traffic detouring to Third Street and westbound traffic detouring to Fifth Street.

The closure of both blocks was due to tree removal.

While the work has started, there is still opposition to the project. The Concerned Citizens Estevan Sk group continues to collect signatures for a petition. They were circulating the community on the weekend as they try to collect enough signatures for a referendum on the project.

For the referendum to occur, the petition would need to have signatures from 10 per cent of Estevan's residents; according to the 2021 federal census, Estevan's population was 10,851, so it would need more than 1,085 signatures. An informal meeting was held with downtown businesses on Friday night at the Estevan Leisure Centre's multi-purpose room, which gave the companies the chance to ask questions about the project.

Foundation has launched fundraising campaign

« A1 meetings have been held, and last fall the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation committed to fundraise the full $6.5 million cost of the project. The hospital foundation was waiting for the green light from the province before it could start with fundraising.

The foundation has officially launched its fundraising campaign, with information on its website on why the MRI is needed and the different ways people can support it.

“Because of Elaine Walkom’s persistence and her generous pledge to donate that unbelievable $2 million, we’ll have the opportunity to be part of this, to be part of making St. Joseph’s MRI a reality. So, it’s pretty exciting,” said SJHF executive director Lori Gervais.

Gervais has been working closely with the Impact Creative marketing company to be ready for the go-ahead.

“Our community always has stood up and supported our shared vision of accessible and high-quality health care, always,” said Gervais. “Anytime we go to the community with fundraising goals and needs, they’ve always been willing to contribute financially or spread awareness or participate in whatever kind of fundraising that we’ve got going on, and I’m sure they’ll continue to do that.”

Proceeds of this year’s Radiothon for Life, which is a

key fundraiser for the foundation, will be directed towards the MRI campaign.

The business case for the MRI showed the total cost, including capital equipment, renovations, and staff training and start-up expenses, would be $6,266,000, including taxes. A contingency brings the total commitment to $6.5 million.

Renovating the diagnostic imaging area, where the MRI will be located, is to be the most expensive component of the project, as it would cost about $3.88 million.

During the fundraising for the MRI, the hospital foundation will also continue to fundraise to meet the other needs of the hospital.

Corey Miller, the president and CEO for Emmanuel Health, said they were “relieved” to find out the government was planning to move forward with the project.

“We’ve put a lot of effort into building the full, comprehensive operational plan, including the capital equipment, the start-up costs, all of the staffing readiness, all of the work that has gone into it. We were pleased to see the government has confidence in partnering with us and the community of Estevan in moving this project forward,” said Miller. Miller expects funding for the project will be needed throughout the different stages.

“We will partner with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and their purchasing process, which they do twice a year where they buy all of their medical imaging equipment. We partner with them so we can use their expertise, but as well get the synergies of bulk buying,” said Miller.

“If they’re going to be buying x-ray equipment, CT scanners, ultrasounds and maybe even an MRI, they sign multiyear contracts and we would like to get that pricing to try to help keep our project costs down.”

Earlier this spring, there was a meeting with area municipalities to give them an update on the project.

Miller said it will be important to work with partners at the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation to meet the fundraising goal, and there will be meetings with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to let them know the hospital’s desire to be part of the

requests for proposals.

“We’ll have to start our own procurement process on the project around the modular MRI system, which will be an add-on to our building, to better understand what our site requirements are. I think it’s scoping the project in detail, and we will need a local project lead on this, and that’s part of the next steps for moving this project forward,” Miller said.

He is “cautiously confident” the project can be completed for the $6.5 million. Costs have gone up for construction, labour and equipment. They will work closely with SHA to keep costs within the expected amount.

St. Joseph’s Hospital executive director Candace Kopec said Miller’s experience has been a big asset, thanks to his time working in medical imaging and nuclear medicine for the Saskatchewan Health

Authority.

“You couldn’t be in better hands than having Corey Miller take the lead of this project,” said Kopec.

The hospital was “thrilled” when they were told an MRI service would be available closer to home for

the people of the southeast.

“We’ve been waiting to move forward, and so now we’ll get started, but we’ve been at a standstill, waiting to hear what the decision was going to be,” said Kopec. For more reaction to the budget, please see Page A6.

Estevan firefighters assist Bienfait in battling garage fire on Saturday

Estevan Fire Rescue Service members responded to a mutual aid call by the Bienfait Fire Department on March 23.

A garage caught fire in the Town of Bienfait. The report

of an emergency came in just after 7:30 a.m. The EFRS sent a crew and an engine to assist the neighbouring fire department with containing and extinguishing the fire.

Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies said that according to his information, no injuries were reported from the incident and the fire was contained to the inside of the garage.

Any

accompanied by a $50.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with: the Secretary of the Board of Revision Marlene Hassard, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota SK SOM 1X0 by the 28th day of April, 2024.

Dated this 29th day of March, 2024.

Sarah Leck Assessor

Earlier last week, firefighters were called to a commercial fire alarm that went off in central Estevan at around 8:30 a.m. on March 18. While crews were responding, it was confirmed that it was a false alarm. Crews stood down, but incident command attended the scene to ensure there indeed was no emergency.

On March 21 at about 8:30 a.m., the fire department received a phone call about a burning smell in a commercial property in the central part of the city. Incident command responded and investigated but did not find a reason for the smell.

Trees have been removed from the 1100 block of Fourth Street, and they'll soon be gone from the 1200 block. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Estevan MRI donor and advocate Elaine Walkom File photo

Estevan fire department celebrates members

By Ana Bykhovskaia

The Estevan Fire Rescue Service held its fourth annual awards banquet on March 16 at the Beefeater Plaza.

The department gathered their staff and members, accompanied by their significant others, to recognize and celebrate their achievements and dedication.

“We started this tradition a few years ago as a more formal way to recognize the contributions to the fire department from our members,” said Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies. “We celebrate in a group setting with a nice supper. We present different awards for different things, hand out service

awards at five-year interval.

“Any medals or awards we can get for our people provincially or federally we will get and present. And then through the fire department, … we have Firefighter of the Year, Officer of the Year and now Driver of the Year awards that are presented to someone for the year past, all voted on by their peers.

“And then there’s a few of those goofy awards by the association [Estevan Firefighters Association]. And we just thank everyone for doing what they do every year.” Davies noted that it’s nice to have that celebration as it may help them work better as a team.

“It’s nice when you can recognize individuals within your group. And, they can take the bugging or the cheering all along that comes with those awards. It does help [in team building],” Davies said.

The department has recently hired a couple of new recruits, and they are currently at 27 members, most of whom were able to attend the event, Davies noted.

The night started with the introduction and welcoming of the department’s newest group of firefighters. Dave Hackett, Darson Gunnlaugson, Nathan Rae, Brandon Schopp, Colby Wainman and Tanner Weger-Brandow all started with the department

at the beginning of 2024.

Next, the EFRS recognized their last group of recruits. Andrew Barr, Annie France Bizier, Ben Brokenshire and Cam Sharp passed probation and were each able to achieve the 1001 Level 2 training standard, which is the professional firefighter’s qualification. They were presented with their certificates.

Next, the department presented years of service awards. Justin Herod, Tyler Stead, Mike Wock, Stephen McLaren and Amanda Minchin were recognized for five years of service. And Mike Olson was saluted for 15 years.

The EFRS also thanked their two outgoing members. Mallory Cappelle

was recognized and thanked for her 12 years of commitment to the department. Chad Perrault was recognized and applauded for his 26 years of service to the department. Perrault was also presented with a Saskatchewan Protective Services medal, which is a provincial recognition for at least 25 years in service.

The night also saw the presentation of awards, which were voted on by the members in recognition of qualities shown throughout the year.

Officer of the Year for 2023 went to Wock. Firefighter of the Year 2023 went to Brokenshire. And Driver/ Operator of the Year 2023 was presented to Jeff Kuchinka.

Hundreds of guns were on display at B&T show on weekend

By Ana Bykhovskaia

The B&T Gun Show is happening in Estevan this Saturday and Sunday.

Over 1,000 firearms and a wide variety of gear are on display at the Wylie-Mitchell Hall.

Hundreds of people went through the doors Saturday morning, and event organizer Kevin Thompson hopes the trend will continue into Sunday.

“It’s been busy. It’s a nice steady flow coming in and out, and it’s been going great,” Thompson said. “We’ve got signs all over around Estevan, and hopefully, people come out to check out the event.”

About 25 vendors from Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta partook in the eighth edition of the event, occupying all 90 tables available. Another 40 tables were on the waiting list, Thompson said. Regular participants were joined by a couple of new ones, changing things up a bit and offering a wide variety of guns and associated goods.

“This is probably the biggest year I’ve ever seen in ammo, lots of lots of ammo and stuff,” Thompson said. “I always keep the same ven-

dors, the ones that have been with me since day one. But it is nice to have somebody new so it’s not the same show every single year.”

Thompson noted they were expecting a person with the Canadian Firearms Office to join the event, but they didn’t come. The Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights (CCFR) was at the location with two tables of merchandise, providing information about what they do.

The organizers decided to forward proceeds from this year’s gun show to the Estevan Royal Canadian Legion branch No. 60.

“We donated to them once before,” Thompson said. “[We donate the proceeds to] any organizations that need money.”

The legion provided members to help the organizers ensure that every single gun entering the building was not loaded and with other duties during the event. Every person exiting the building with firearms is also checked for receipts.

Thompson noted that the show also provides a great opportunity for guests and participants to meet new people and learn.

Last year proceeds from the B&T Gun Show went to the

The B&T Gun Show brought hundreds of guests over to the Wylie-Mitchell Hall in Estevan on Saturday and Sunday.

United Way Estevan.

Over the years, over $90,000 has been donated to different charities through the B & T Gun Show, including the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon, multiple sclerosis and diabetes

research, as well as the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, the legion’s Estevan branch and other groups. The organizers also invested and helped build the Estevan pistol range. The Wylie-Mitchell Air Ca -

dets are running the canteen during the event.

On Saturday, the show goes from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday doors open at 10 a.m. and the show will continue until 3 p.m. Admission is $5, and 11 and under are free.

a happy, healthy boy and can’t wait to meet my new family!

The Estevan Fire Rescue Service celebrated their members at the annual Awards Banquet at the Beefeater Plaza. Photo courtesy of the Estevan Fire Rescue Service

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Volume 118 Issue 37

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The editor:

I would like to make a few comments and ask for some more information regarding the recent story in your paper regarding a referendum on the Fourth Street project.

The federal government is going to post a $383 billion deficit this year. The $7.5 million funded by PrairiesCan is not their money or the Tooth Fairy's, it will be taxpayers' money as the only money any government has comes from the taxpayer.

The $1.5 million for infrastructure will

People across southeast Saskatchewan should have been thrilled with Wednesday's announcement that the provincial government has given the green light for fundraising to proceed on an MRI scanner at St. Joseph's Hospital in Estevan.

It's something so many people in the southeast have been waiting to hear. But much work remains. The St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation has to raise $6.5 million to bring the machine here, but at least there is a $2 million head start thanks to the generosity of Estevan's Elaine Walkom, who has long been a proponent of the service.

Raising the remaining $4.5 million is not going to be easy, despite the immense generosity of people in Estevan and the surrounding area. Nearly a decade ago, a CT scanner was purchased and installed for St. Joe's because the community

There was a time when terrorist attacks were almost routine.

Before 9/11 and following that terrifying tipping point, in the early 2000s, news about suicide bombers and other kinds of terrorist attacks was coming regularly from different parts of the world. At some point, the trend switched to suicide drivers, steering into crowds in different countries for different reasons and with different messages.

I remember discussing a dilemma of terrorism with my classmates and professors in the mid-2000s when I was still a journalism student at university. We were exploring the phenomenon of terrorism and our role in it. On the one hand, journalists have to cover the news, especially those affecting public safety. (And even if professionals are slow on reaction, in today's world of social media, the public will have information, along with exaggerated rumours and guesses, spreading with the speed of light.)

On the other hand, most terrorist attacks would have close to zero influence if they were not covered, as their main goal is to start a wide wave of fear, make people feel vulnerable anywhere they are, start panic and in this way destabilize the society.

In the '90s, governments negotiated with terrorists, but after 2001, that trend globally started changing. By the late 2010searly 2020s, it seemed that terrorist attacks became a bit of a notion of the past, as governments, globally and individually, were finding ways to prevent them and mainly make them harder and harder to implement.

Of course, we had ISIS with their unbelievably cruel yet more individualized acts of terrorism in more recent years, and other random acts of violence aimed at spreading fear.

come from the taxpayers of Estevan. There are a lot of streets in Estevan in far worse shape than Fourth Street.

I would point out to the person who said that when governments spend money they do not have, taxes go up and so does inflation.

How long ago was the water and sewer replaced in this area of Fourth Street?

What were the percentages of increase on commercial and residential taxes in 2019?

You state the city will not pay down debt this year because of this project. What is the

raised the $2 million necessary to make it happen. But it took time. The ask is even greater for the MRI.

This is not just going to be an Estevan campaign. This is going to be a southeast Saskatchewan effort. The people of Estevan are not the only ones who have been eagerly awaiting an MRI. If it would be easier for you to travel to Estevan than Regina for a scan (and there are tens of thousands of people who fit this category), then you should be thrilled that there might be an MRI coming.

You never know if or when you might need the procedure. And if you don't need one now, there is a good chance you know someone who does, who has been waiting months for it to happen.

We should all be grateful to Walkom, not just for her generosity, but for her persistence.

Yet, it seemed that the time of widespread terrorism was almost over. (Israel with their regular conflicts was one of the exceptional regions in that sense, but even for them the Oct. 7 attack came as an earthquake.)

The recent vast terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue and mall near Moscow that claimed 137 lives as of Sunday was on a bigger scale and came as a shock for many.

The U.S., along with some other countries including Canada, warned their citizens in Russia of the potential for such a situation ahead of the presidential election earlier in March. But there was no clarity on what was to happen, and the timeframe tipped at the potential for the government to be harsh if there were to be any civil disturbances.

There were some small visible protests, but nothing major. Nevertheless, the attack happened, but it was later, less than a week after the Russian president claimed his fifth term with record, close to 90 per cent support in the most non-transparent election.

As of Sunday, while the executors were arrested and being questioned, it wasn't clear who and for what purpose the attack was organized. Armed people burst into a concert hall, shooting adults and kids, and setting the building on fire. The American authorities were quick to point at the Islamic State in Khorasan (ISIS-K), which also claimed responsibility for it. But a deeper look at the organization, its activity and resources

current total debt of the city of Estevan and how big is the interest bill?

The reason for my concern is economics. All of our vendors are in Estevan. Business has two choices when taxes go up, increase the cost to the consumer or close the doors. (In some cases, they have demolished the building as the tax bill still comes even if they close the doors).

George Foord Macoun

If she didn't step forward with the $2 million, we're not having this discussion. She offered the money long before the government's rejection of the gift went public. And if she, and some allies, didn't go public with the government's denial of the donation, then we wouldn't be celebrating the budget announcement.

It's a testament to what can happen when things are done the right way.

A lot of people spent a lot of time lobbying the government on this issue and then preparing the business case for the MRI.

Walkom said she was donating the $2 million in memory of her late husband Grant, and as a way to say thank you to the people of the southeast for the support they showed her family and their business, Hank's Maintenance, over the years. But we should all say thank you to Walkom and her supporters for making this happen.

makes their involvement doubtful.

Russia is searching for a Ukrainian connection; Ukrainian authorities deny it. Some Kremlin opposition was fast to blame the government for organizing the attack, similar to the late '90s explosions in Moscow (which, according to one of the theories, were organized by FSB) in order to tighten the screws and potentially announce another wave of mobilization.

I'd say it's too early for any conclusions on that.

But while authorities are searching for who to blame and punish, and how to strengthen their anti-terrorism rules and regulations, I think to many people, no matter where they are, this attack came as a strong, yet just another reminder that terrorism, as a tool, is not written off.

Almost any collective traumatizing experience unites people who are directly involved or just watching it happen. (Millions of people around the world to this day remember what they were doing and what they felt when the 9/11 attack was transpiring on TV and will forever remain a part of that tragedy.) For those closer to the epicentre of traumatic events, those memories and feelings often become a part of identity and are easily retriggered when something similar happens. But they affect even those further away from it.

The recent attack came as a trigger for many, reminding people globally of our own emotions of other similar traumatic experiences which we probably empathized with more. It mobilizes those imprinted feelings of vulnerability and fear, and reminds us that as inhumane as it is, terrorism is still around, even in our highly humane and humanitarian times.

1320

Estevan chamber shines light on their strategic plan

By Ana Bykhovskaia

The Estevan Chamber of Commerce summed up the results of 2023 and touched on plans for the near future at the annual general meeting at the Southeast College’s Estevan Campus on March 20, with several dozen members present.

The new board of directors was installed at the meeting. Denise Taylor is the new president, Tania Hlohovsky Andrist is the vice-president, Linda Mack is the treasurer, and Twyla Bauman, Ashley Gallaway, Cory Casemore, John Williams and Melanie Tribiger are the directors. Outgoing president Sheena Onrait thanked the membership, noting it was a good year, marked by engaging events and significant milestones, such as the Estevan Business Excellence Awards, Coffee Talks, and other networking opportunities and discussions.

“I’m confident that our collective efforts will continue

to deal progress and prosperity, not only for our members but the broader Estevan community,” Onrait said. Chamber executive director Jackie Wall talked about the chamber’s successes in 2023 and their plans for the future. Wall pointed out that engagement and participation continued to be strong, and the membership kept growing.

“The 2023 EBEX Awards saw more nominees than ever,” Wall said. “We congratulate all the winners and we look forward to EBEX in 2025.” Other events such as the Farm Family Appreciation Evening and Networking on the Green golf tournament saw strong support as well.

“Your chamber has one of the highest membership rates per capita in the country and one of the strongest retention rates as well,” Wall said. “The chamber is also in a very good position financially with a healthy operational reserve fund.”

Wall noted the new strategic plan is in the final stages of approval.

“The way the world operates and works has dramatically changed over the past few years, and this strategic plan took a look at how this is impacting our members, how the chamber could better serve the membership, and how we can operate to the best of our capacity. The Estevan chamber operations will look a little different moving forward into 2024-25,” Wall said. She also reminded the guests that the Estevan Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, and on May 30 they are organizing the Southeast Success Summit. The day will feature two events.

“Join us as we celebrate the southeast with a day of one-hour sessions that will focus on success for our region. Later that evening there will be a 120-anniversary banquet, a special greeting on behalf of our province brought to us by Premier Scott Moe. Registration is now open for both of those events on our website,” Wall said.

Mack presented the 2023 financial statement. Revenues were $238,878, including $87,067 for memberships. Expenses were $216,392 for a net income of $22,486.

The guests also listened to a guest presentation by the SE College. Onrait, who is also the VP of communications and strategic enrollment with the college, started the 2023-2028 strategic plan presentation.

“Our strategic plan started with a lot of community consultation, both at our community levels and our staff levels and our government levels as well. It was led by our board of governors and our CEO,” Onrait said. Their vision is “Changing lives, building strong sustainable communities to lead in a changing world.” Their mission is “Transforming our communities through innovative educational opportunities.”

At SE College, they practise professional ethical conduct, the plan description says, and they are guided by the following core values:

Innovative – proactively and courageously responding to changing needs within an environment that encourages continuous improvement; Collaborative – creating

genuine, meaningful interactions and partnerships that embrace equality, diversity and inclusion to achieve mutual goals and superior outcomes; Sustainable – supporting economic growth, social well-being and environmental viability through transparent accountability and responsible stewardship.

Guiding principles for the next five years are social, economic and financial, and environmental sustainability.

The college team also introduced three core priorities outlined in the strategic plan.

Jennifer Logel, vice-president of human resources and organizational development, touched on Priority 1: Enhance the organizational culture, which enables the college to better serve their workers, clients and com-

munities across the region.

Dean Loberg, vice-president of academic, teaching, learning and IT, talked about Priority 2: Advance strategic collaboration, which includes deepening relationships and advancing partnerships to better identify emerging trends, understand learning needs and collaborate to develop successful solutions.

Merissa Scarlett, one of the college business and program development consultants, touched on Priority 3: Strengthen community capability, and she talked about micro-credentials and other innovative educational programs and opportunities offered through the college.

More information about the college and their programs can be found on their website at southeastcollege.org.

The Estevan Chamber of Commerce installed its 2024 board of directors.

From left, Ashley Gallaway Linda Mack (treasurer), Twyla Bauman Tania Hlohovsky Andrist (vice-president), Denise Taylor (president) and Cory Casemore. Missing from the picture are John Williams and Melanie Tribiger.

Estevan Chamber of Commerce outgoing president and the SE College’s VP of communication and strategic enrolment, Sheena Onrait, talked about development plans for the near future.

Eagle Sky Ventures emerged victorious at the Estevan Oilfield Technical Society’s (OTS) 64th annual open bonspiel.

Eagle Sky defeated Allscott’s Tots 5-2 in the six-end final on Saturday night at the Power Dodge Curling Centre. Members of the championship team were skip Cory Purves, third Lindsay Huish, second Cassie Carriere and lead Darin Trimble.

After a first-round bye, Eagle Sky Ventures opened their tournament with a victory over Prairie Mud. Then they knocked off Midwest Surveys in the quarter-final round. A win over Innovative ALS in the semifinals sent Eagle Sky to the A final.

“I think we all curled well and made some shots, and when we didn’t, the next person stepped up,” said Purves.

Estevan MLA Lori Carr is highlighting a number of projects for the Estevan area that are included in the 2024 provincial budget, which was released last Wednesday.

"I believe this is a responsible budget. One that focuses on classrooms, care and communities," said Carr, who is also the minister of Highways and Infrastructure. "First off there are no fee increases or tax hikes.

"And I feel at this time, when people are very aware of the rising costs of even just the basic living needs, things like food, rent or mortgage payments, that having no tax hikes

In the final, Eagle Sky came out slowly, he said, but they settled down and found the right weight for the ice. A three-point score in the fourth end proved to be the big difference.

The semifinal win over Innovative ALS was their most difficult victory.

This year marked the first time the team had competed at the OTS bonspiel. Purves said it was a great experience with a strong social component. Some of the teams were very competitive.

“The group I’ve been curling with, they started curling together a couple of years ago, and we try to curl at as many bonspiels as we can. We’re looking to curl some more again next year, and we enjoy curling with each other,” said Purves.

Huish and Carriere work at Eagle Sky Ventures.

or fee increases is important for Saskatchewan families and businesses."

While there are no actual dollars placed in this year's budget for an MRI scanner at St. Joseph's Hospital, Carr was pleased the government has provided the commitment to proceed to further work with St. Joseph’s Hospital in Estevan, through Emmanuel Health.

Once the new MRI is installed, government is also committed to provide the ongoing operational funding required.

"I am very grateful for the generosity and support

The four curlers are looking forward to coming together as a team again next year to defend their title.

In the B event, Surepoint defeated General Well Services 5-3. Surepoint won four straight games in the B event after dropping its opening game of the bonspiel.

Midwest Surveys blanked AC Power 5-0 in the C final. Midwest Surveys won the bonspiel in 2022 and AC Power took the event last year.

A full field of 24 teams entered this year. Games were played throughout the afternoon and evening on Friday, with the exception of a break for supper on Friday evening, and additional games were played Saturday.

The bonspiel was also the final event of the season at the Power Dodge Curling Centre.

that we have received from communities and individuals," Carr said. "A special thank you to Elaine Walkom for the two million dollars she is putting towards this project, and for her advocacy. The generosity of the people and communities in the southeast never ceases to amaze me."

People will not have to travel to Regina or Saskatoon to receive an MRI, she said, and wait times will be reduced.

Also, a $2.5 million commitment for the new Estevan Regional Nursing Home will allow that project to move forward, she said, and the government will continue to work closely with the committee to ensure the facility meets the needs of the area.

"After design is done comes construction, so this is pretty exciting," she said.

Detailed design can be a lengthy process. Discussions can go back and forth, and the committee might come forward with amenities that aren't included.

There is $1.9 million for planning and gravel crushing for Highway 18 west of Estevan. Resurfacing is expected to occur next summer. It's approximately 22 kilometres in length and stretches from Estevan to Outram. Once it is completed, Highway 18 will have been resurfaced from the Saskatchewan-Manitoba border to the junction with Highway 6.

As for the rest of the document, Carr said there is a three per cent increase for community-based organizations that are funded by the Government of Saskatchewan. Carr noted the majority of these groups flow through the Ministry of Social Services' budget.

The provincial budget has a projected deficit of $273.2 million. Revenues are expected to be $19.86 billion and expenses are forecasted to be more than $20.13 billion.

The document forecasts the average price of oil will be US$77 per barrel for West

Texas Intermediate. Oil production is expected to be 166.7 million barrels of oil for the third straight year. Health-care spending is up by 10 per cent and there is also an 8.8 per cent increase for the education system.

Municipal revenue sharing is up over 14 per cent from last year. Carr said the City of Estevan will receive $2,549,426, which Carr said represents approximately 10 per cent of their annual operating budget. Elsewhere in the southeast, the budget includes money for the new kindergartenGrade 12 school in Carlyle for the second straight year. The exact amount for Carlyle wasn't specified, but a total of $165.9 million will be provided to support 11 new or consolidated school projects and three major renovations.

And there is $3 million for a flood passage project for Grant Devine Lake near Alameda. Patrick Boyle, the executive director of communications and client service with the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency, said there is a railway that crosses the channel downstream from the dam.

Under extreme flows, the railway embankment restricts flood waters from passing further downstream, creating dam safety concerns. The WSA is working with Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railway to address this.

The WSA recently completed a procurement options analysis that will help guide the selection of procurement model to further the project. Over the next two years, the project will focus on detailed site investigations, engineering analysis and design.

From left, Cory Purves, Lindsay Huish, Cassie Carriere and Darin Trimble won the A event at the Estevan OTS bonspiel. Photo courtesy of Sam Bakala

Estevan MLA Lori Carr

Unique Estevan gym featured in Mutant on a Mission

By Ana Bykhovskaia

Estevan’s Studio C 24 Hour Fitness gym was featured in Episode 1 of Season 9 of the popular Mutant on a Mission YouTube show recently.

The 23-minute video went live on March 12 and had over 12,000 views in under two weeks.

In the series, one of the ‘Mutants’ Ron Partlow – aka Big Ron Partlow, an International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) pro, who has a vast knowledge of training methods and principles – travels the world in search of some of the best bodybuilding and hardcore gyms. He made it to Estevan earlier this year and praised the

but didn’t know he’d actually come to Estevan to feature their business, which they’ve put years of their expertise and passion into.

“In January, he messaged and said, ‘Are you guys going to be around mid-February?’ And we’re like, ‘Yeah, We’ll make sure we’re around,’” Chad recalled. “They came February 16, they flew in the night before and then they filmed for four hours.”

Cea Anna, who used to live and train in large communities, said she always wanted to bring a big-city gym to Chad’s hometown of Estevan, which became her home as well and which she really enjoys.

“I’ve been training since 1989. I’ve

these places. So, we got all these ideas and we had a vision of what we wanted to do, but whether it was going to happen or not, we didn’t know at that point,” Chad shared.

They made their vision come true in 2017, opening the 10,000-squarefoot Studio C 24 Hour Fitness at what’s now the Estevan Market Mall.

Right off the start, they knew they wanted their gym to offer a wide range of equipment to allow for training every muscle, but they also knew they wanted their gym to be inclusive.

“Gyms like this, they got real bodybuilders owning them, and all this experience with equipment and stuff, but they also have to make sure,

Flashback March 19, 2003

Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation hosts day of honouring

By Stephanie Zoer

On March 21, 1901, Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation (PRNFN) people were removed from their land by gunpoint and forced to go east to the White Bear First Nation (WBFN).

They left their land with the clothing on their backs and were told to leave their belongings behind.

Pheasant Rump is located north of Kisbey off of Highway 13, but back in 1901, there were no roads to travel on. Walking through the hills near the Moose Mountains in the cold temperatures brought a toll on the people, and many lost their lives on this journey.

They continued to fight for their land and in 1990 were reconstituted as an independent band.

Vanessa BigEagle, PRNFN’s language and cultural media con-

sultant, said March 21, 2024, was a day to honour their ancestors.

Chief Ira McArthur of PRNFN went to WBFN at 6 a.m. and was joined by Chief Jonathan Pasap to walk the 44 kilometres to Pheasant Rump.

Their journey took them south on Highway 9 to Carlyle and then west on Highway 13 until they reached the Pheasant Rump village, where they walked the street through the village to the complex.

A group of 15-20 people joined the walk, with a lead vehicle for safety and several vehicles following for those that needed a rest. With the walk taking 10 hours to complete, this created a delay with the events planned for the afternoon.

Over the years there have been difficulties between the First Nations and this day was to move forward, and to commemorate and

remember the sacrifices of their ancestors by honouring their people. Although things were delayed, the activities began with the pipe ceremony and then the feast was prepared.

One hundred years ago, the women cooked the meal, and the men served it, and this is the tradition they carried out on March 21.

The meal was set out on tarps in the middle of the complex, and then the men danced around the feast with a ladle in hand, serving the guests.

The celebration went on into the late evening with a gahomni, which is special dance, and they were joined by drum groups Wooden Face, Dakota Travels, Moose Mountain Nakota and Pipestone Dakota. An evening lunch was later served.

They feel this is a time to remember and honour.

Report from the Legislature

Saskatchewan’s 2024-25 Budget makes record new investments in classrooms, care and communities. The budget includes the largest-ever increase in school operating funding, the largest-ever increase in health funding and the largest-ever increase in municipal revenue sharing for Saskatchewan communities.

Within the Estevan Constituency there are some very targeted investments to talk about:

• MRI services will be coming to Estevan

• $2.5 Million for detailed design of a New Nursing Home

• $1.9 million for engineering and gravel crushing for Highway 18 West of Estevan

• Continued funding for our Police and Crisis Team

• Continued support for addiction beds

• 3% increase to our government supported community based organizations

Revenue is forecast at $19.9 billion, up $184.2 million from last year’s budget. There are no new taxes and no tax increases in this year’s budget, helping keep life affordable for Saskatchewan residents.

The budget includes $2.0 billion in previously announced tax reductions and other affordability measures. When taxes, utilities and housing costs are combined, our province is the most affordable place to live in Canada for a family of four.

Our government will invest in what matters most to Saskatchewan people – classrooms, care and communities.

The 2024-25 Budget supports students and teachers through a record-level total education budget of $4.4 billion. This includes $3.3 billion for the Ministry of Education, up 8.1 per cent over last year’s budget. This is an increase of $247.8 million to support Prekindergarten to Grade 12 students, early learning, child care and libraries.

Saskatchewan’s 27 school divisions will receive $2.2 billion in school operating funding for the 2024-25 school year, a record increase of $180 million, or 8.8 per cent, over the previous year.

The budget includes a record $7.6 billion investment into the Ministry of Health and includes funding to expand patient care and increase access to services to meet the needs of our growing population.

For cities, towns, villages and municipalities throughout Saskatchewan, this budget provides a record increase of $42.4 million in municipal revenue sharing. This is an increase of 14.2 per cent from the year before, and a total of $340.2 million in unconditional support for municipalities in the province.

The 2024-25 Budget addresses many priorities for the people of Saskatchewan, with a clear focus on classrooms, care and communities. These areas impact everyone in our province –from the seniors who helped build our province into the great place it is today to our future leaders who are just making their way into the world, as well as everyone in between. Thanks to the growth of our province, we have more people, more jobs and more opportunities for the people and families that call Saskatchewan home. The 2024-25 Budget meets the challenges of a growing province by re-investing the benefits of a growing province in classrooms, care and communities.

To learn more about the 2024-25 Budget, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca/budget. If you have any questions, please reach out to my constituency office at 1-306-634-7311 or loricarrmla@sasktel.net.

Lori Carr, MLA

Estevan Constituency Office

306-634-7311

loricarrmla@sasktel.net

Valerie Hall, (left) president of the Estevan Quota Club, presented six local groups with money in March 2003. Accepting the donations were, back row, from left, Kathy Lisoway of the Estevan Family Centre ($500), Greg Salmers of the Southeast Regional Library ($200), Lesa Seipp of the Estevan Music Festival donation scholarship for speech arts ($150) and Rose Knoll of the Regional Nursing Home ($200).

Front row: Debbie Fernandez, the co-ordinator of mom’s program for SMILE Services ($200), Brenda Barry Byrne of the Art Gallery and Museum ($500) and Helen Fornwald of Estevan Leisure Services ($100).

Chief Ira McArthur , left , from Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation walked from White Bear First Nation to signify a day of honouring. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

By Jeannette Betteridge

Our St. Patrick’s Day Coin Hunt and Easter Egg Hunt offered good times and loads of fun.

March 15 was our annual coin hunt for St. Patrick’s Day. Prizes were given to the resident who found the most hidden green coins. Our first-place winner was Ken Geisel, second place was Henry Lischka and third place was Vivian Leptich, Congratulations to our winners. This brought lots of excitement for all the participants, and it was great fun for all.

Our annual Easter Egg Hunt was held on March 22. Prizes were given to first and second-place winners. First place went to Mervin Wolgram and second place went to Henry Lischka.

Our monthly ice cream social will be held March 27. This is an all-time favourite for our residents. It is a great socialization time for them and offers some very yummy treats.

Entertainment this month was the Caragana Ramblers, Maggie, the Szakacs Family, Laurie Fornwald, Susan Shepard, Wilma and Val, and Keith and Gary. Happy Easter to all from our home to yours.

April outings will be to Make Music with Friends, which is an all-time favourite. We’ll go to Walmart for shopping and Eddie Webster’s for lunch.

In April we have three birthdays: Waunie Thompson celebrates her 68th birthday, Millie Culbertson will turn 97 and Dave Schell celebrates his 74th birthday. Happy birthday to all.

The Southeast Connection District is looking for participants in a variety of events for the upcoming Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association (SSFA) Games.

The competition will take place in the Battlefords from June 11-13. The games are open to Saskatchewan residents who will be 55 years of age or older as of Dec. 31, 2024. Participants must also be members of the SSFA in order to be eligible. There can be an unlimited number

“Is that a Sun Ice?”

“Excuse me,” I said.

My friend pointed to my new ski jacket and asked again, “Is that a Sun Ice?”

It was 1991 and Sun Ice was the big name in skiwear at the time. “No” I replied, “I can’t afford one of those”.

“Oh” he said as he lost interest and then just walked away. I had not seen this friend in more than a year and, sadly, his first question was not, “How are you doing?” or “How is your first year in Estevan going?” but rather, “Is that an expensive coat or just a cheap knock-off?” It

Many activities are planned for April for the residents. The first Wednesday of the month is always Catholic mass, followed by the Trinity Lutheran communion in the afternoon. The first Thursday of the month is the resident meeting where the residents give feedback on what is going on.

The Gospel Chapel always comes on the third Sunday of the month. I hold nondenominational devotions for the residents on Wednesdays in the late afternoons.

Crafts with the Estevan Public Library, exercises, Bingo, card games, crokinole, bowling, bean bag toss and various board games are among the other activities.

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

of participants in each event/age category.

The 2024 activities include five-pin bowling, cribbage, golf, Kaiser, pickleball, lawn bowling, slo-pitch, eight-ball, swimming, track and field, photography, and poetry and short-story writing.

The poetry/short story writing contest has the theme of Active Aging: Mind and Body. One unpublished poem of 12-24 lines and/or unpublished short story of

was an odd and disturbing interaction. One that I still remember 33 years later. It is easy to believe that our worth is determined by how much money we make, where we have been or what we own, but that is not an accurate measurement. We need a better way of evaluating our lives and our success.

Someone said, “Never measure life by possessions. Measure it by the hearts you have touched, the smiles you created and the love you shared”. That is a good reminder. Life is best when we live for something bigger

350-500 words can be submitted per competitor. The entry deadline is April 30. Works that have been printed but have not resulted in a payment are eligible. For the short story submissions, the judges will consider structure; technical correctness; clarity and originality of expression; significance and originality of thought; and character presentation and development. In poetry, submissions will be judged on signifi-

than ourselves.

“Who am I helping?"

“What am I leaving behind?” and “How do I want to be remembered?” are the sorts of questions that will guide us toward better decisions and a better life.

Jesus said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15).

Do not fall for the lie that more is always better. Do not assume that success is best measured in dollars and cents. Focus on your relationships. Build others up. Make your corner of

cance, depth of thought, originality of ideas and presentation. People can submit their writing to south.east.ssfa@gmail.com in outlined format. Registration forms and entry rules for poetry and short story are available by emailing south.east. ssfa@gmail.com or calling 306634-7631. People can also check the SSFA website at www.ssfa.ca. Competitors for short stories and poetry are not required to attend the games.

the world a better place. Focus on what is eternal rather than what is temporary. Then you will be successful, whether you have much or little.

Coco Chanel once said, “There are those who have money and those who are rich”. We need a better score card.

The SSFA is a non-profit volunteer organization which promotes active living, wellness and participation of Saskatchewan adults who are at least 55 years of age. People can contact a district representative for membership, games information and registration forms, which are available on the SSFA provincial website at ssfa.ca.

The contact person for the southeast is Linda Murphy at 306634-7631.

Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ

Vivian Leptich Henry Lischka and Ken Geisel were the top three finishers in the St. Patrick’s Day Coin Hunt. Photo courtesy of Jeannette Betteridge

Ice Cream

Lounge

Outdoor Patio

Pasta ________________________

Pizza

Sandwich & Sub

Take-out/Delivery

HOME & GARDEN

Hardware Store

Concrete Contractor

Electrician

Floor Covering________________

Garden/Greenhouse

General Contractor

Kitchen Renovation

Landscaping/Lawn Service

Paint

Painter

Plumbing & Heating

Roofing

Window Covering

Windows & Doors_____________

ENERGY SECTOR/OIL & GAS

Completion Services

Drilling Services

Equipment Rentals

Hotshot

Production Services

Safety Service

Supply Store

Transport/Trucking SHOPPING

Appliances

Art & Home Decor

BBQ/Smoker & Supplies

Bicycle Shop

Cell Phones

Computer Sales/Service

Discount/Thrift Store

Electronics____________________

Florist/Plant Shop

Fresh Produce

Furniture

Gift Shop

Grocery

Grocery Pick-up/Delivery

Jewellery

Liquor Store

Mattresses

Meat/Butcher

Men’s Clothing

Office Supplies

Sporting Goods

Toys/Hobbies/Games

Women’s Clothing

BEST OF THE BEST

Best Customer Service:

- Business ____________________

- Individual ___________________

Best New Business (as of Jan 1, 2021)

Favourite Place to Shop

Congratulations to the Farm Family of the Year Congratulations to the Farm Family of the Year

Sixth-generation operation, Family View Farms, earns Estevan Farm Family of the Year Award

By David Willberg

Family View Farms certainly lives up to its name, as family is a big part of their operation.

Their commitment to agriculture and the community was recognized on Thursday night, as they were presented with the prestigious Farm Family of the Year Award during the annual Estevan Farmers' Appreciation Evening at the Beefeater Plaza. The large crowd in attendance gave the recipients a standing ovation.

Family View Farms is comprised of two families –the Wallisers and the Olsons. It includes Curtis and Wendy Walliser and their elder daughter Ashley, her husband Tyler and son Sade Olson. They farm land from Bienfait to Hirsch and reside on two farms east of Bienfait.

"Curtis' maternal side, the Wallisers, came to the same area in the early 1900s and eventually settled near Hirsch, where he and Wendy continue to live today," said Tyler Olson. "We still currently farm the original land as both the Walliser and Christenson sides of the family."

After growing up on the farm with his parents and four brothers, Curtis Walliser started renting his own land when he was 18 years old. He later married Wendy, and they moved out to the family farm, where they raised cattle

It was once a mixed operation with grain and 150 head of cattle. In 2011, they sold their cattle to focus solely on grain farming. Today, they farm just over 5,000 acres of rented and owned land, consisting mainly of wheat, canola, peas and soybeans. The fourth, fifth and sixth generations currently farm the land, thanks to Curtis, Ashley and Sade, respectively, and they still farm the land that Curtis' maternal great-grandfather settled on in the late 1800s after immigrating from Sweden.

and grain farmed together alongside his parents and one brother.

Tyler said he came into the picture in 2000. While he and Ashley were working for oilfield companies, they purchased some land and some cattle, and started grain farming together alongside Ashley's parents.

"A few years later, the four of us formed a farm partnership together, and because Ashley and I built a house in a farmyard in clear view to Curtis and Wendy's place, we called our farm Family View Farms," Tyler said.

It is often perceived that working with family can be difficult and challenging, and while Tyler said he has no doubt that can be true for some, Family View Farms has not encountered this obstacle with their farm.

"Well, not that anyone has expressed out loud yet anyways," Tyler said to laugh-

ter from the crowd. "We focus more on the benefits and positive effects of working together as a family. There aren't many jobs or industries where it's Bring your Child to Work Day every day, or where you can have three or sometimes even four generations literally working side by side to achieve the same goals and share the same successes."

Family View Farms also has two seasonal employees, both of whom were present for the Farmer's Appreciation Evening. They have been with the operation for nearly 10 years, and the Olsons and Wallisers are grateful to have them.

"They are just like family and we appreciate all that they do for us," said Tyler. Their farm is a lot like a lot of other successful family operations, Tyler said, but he pointed out they are in a somewhat unique situation because they have someone in a wheelchair, as Tyler was paralyzed

in a snowmobile accident 10 years ago. Although there are definitely many obstacles and challenges, it does come with some perks.

"Many people in here, and many of tonight's sponsors know that when I'm coming to town for a parts run, I'm not getting out of my truck, so you'll have to bring the parts to me," he said to more laughter.

The accident brought the members of Family View Farms closer together, and everyone has more defined roles. The Wallisers and Olsons also take active leads in the community.

"While Ashley and I have volunteered with Bienfait minor sports and Bienfait [Weldon] School, she continues to substitute teach when she's not running the combine, cooking meals or doing parts runs. I mainly look after the agronomy, the books and marketing," said Tyler.

"Curtis runs equipment,

does the trucking as well as all of the small jobs; Wendy cooks the most meals when she's not volunteering at Fresh Air Fitness, the Coal Country Run or working sales at Mack Auction. Sade picks rocks, land rolls and splits time between running a combine and the grain cart in the fall," said Tyler. Sports, beef 4-H, the RM council and the school have been important causes they have or continue to give their time to.

"While Curtis was working at the coal mines, spending time on the RM council and the school board, and while Wendy was working full-time for the federal government, volunteering with Bienfait Minor Ball, the rec board and 4-H beef, they raised their two daughters, Ashley and Janessa, who both helped and worked on the farm with various jobs and in different capacities," said Tyler.

Saskatchewan farmers don’t just feed our province & country, they feed our world. Thank you for your hard work & dedication.

From left, Wendy and Curtis Walliser, and Ashley Tyler and Sade Olson accept the Farm Family of the Year Award. Photo by David Willberg

Sade Ashley and Tyler Olson at their family farm outside of Bienfait. Photos courtesy of Family View Farms

Farmers have seen lots of changes during career

« A12 Janessa lives in Weyburn with her husband and their two young daughters. They often come to the farm to visit, and the girls love riding on the equipment.

They are continually trying to adapt their farm to keep up with the increasing challenges agriculture faces, and they try to utilize innovation wherever they can.

Curtis has seen a lot of changes in his career. He pointed out that when he first learned to drive a tractor, they didn't have cabs or power steering.

"Now we have air conditioning, Bluetooth stereo, GPS, auto steer, air-cooled seats, built-in fridges and all of the comforts. Back then you had to love farming because it wasn't as easy physically as it is now."

They used to haul grain with a two-tonne truck to the local elevator that was a few kilometres away. Now they haul for an hour each way with a semi-truck and trailer.

"We used to spend a lot of time swathing," he recalled. "We would swath everything and then we eventually only swathed canola and straight cut our cereal crops. For the last six or so years, we have straight-cut all of our crops. We still own a swather but we don't swath anything anymore."

With new crop varieties, the yields have increased so much over the years, he said.

Family View Farms utilizes soil sampling to only apply the correct amount of fertilizer needed for maximizing production yet being environmentally conscious.

Curtis also remembers when they used to summer fallow 50 per cent of its land. Every year they seeded half the land into crop and then left the other half. This was to conserve moisture and help fight the weeds. When they did seed the land into crop, they predominantly seeded only wheat.

"Now, we continuous crop and direct seed, seeding a wider variety including oilseeds, cereals and pulses," Curtis said. "We find that with the direct seeding method, we save labour, save fuel and it also helps to increase the organic matter in the soil allowing for the healthiest soil possible."

The operation has gone from never spraying, then to only spraying a crop once in a growing season, to now numerous passes with a high-clearance sprayer to control weeds, disease and insects.

When Curtis and

Wendy first started farming, they had to work full-time jobs off of the farm in order to subsidize their income.

"Farming was a lot simpler when I first started but yet I wouldn't go back to the way things were," Curtis said. "Most farmers dream of carrying on the

family farm, being your own boss and working side by side with your family each day and I am happy to say that I achieved that."

Tyler pointed out the Wallisers and Olsons, as well as the others in the region, believe they are very fortunate to have great

relationships with the local agriculture businesses, who also support numerous other organizations and events such as the Farmers' Appreciation Evening.

"We need to acknowledge and thank all of the previous generations who farmed the land before us

and who had it a lot tougher than we all do today. Obviously, we wouldn't be here today without them."

Tyler also thanked those who organized the Farmers' Appreciation Evening, the selection committee for picking the families for the recognition, the sponsors of the event and those who nominated Family View Farms.

"With there being so many other family farms who are deserving of this award, our family is honoured to win the Farm Family Award for 2024," said Tyler Olson.

Large Farm Equipment Auction: Blaine & Michelle Messer 306.421.1972

Estevan, SK

Sale

April 9, 2021

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

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

306.482.7895

306.482.7895

Carievale, SK

Carievale, SK

Sale Opens: April 10, 2021

Sale Closes: April 14, 2021

Sale

Farm

Farm Equipment Auction:

Farm Equipment Auction:

Clayton & Marilyn Clow

Fred & Shirley Simpson

Fred & Shirley Simpson

306.339.8011

306.483.7760

306.339.8011

Carnduff, SK

Storthoaks, SK

Storthoaks, SK

Sale Opens: May 29,

Sale Opens: April 12, 2021 • Sale Closes: April 16, 2021

Sale Opens: April 12, 2021 • Sale Closes: April 16, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction:

Farm Equipment Auction:

Farm Equipment Auction:

Darrell Bernard & Vanessa Luzny

Vic & Dave Huish (Huish Bros.)

Vic & Dave Huish (Huish Bros.)

306.482.7541

306.861.1155

306.482.7541

Gainsborough, SK

Khedive, SK

Gainsborough, SK

Sale Opens: March 31,

Sale Opens: April 15, 2021

Sale Closes: April 19, 2021

Sale Opens: April 15, 2021 • Sale Closes: April 19, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction:

Land Auction:

Farm Equipment Auction:

Darrell Bernard & Vanessa Luzny

Randy & Kathy Luhning

Randy & Kathy Luhning

306.731.7088

306.861.1155

306.731.7088

Lumsden, SK

Khedive, SK

Lumsden, SK

Sale Opens: March 31, 2024

Sale Opens: April 17, 2021

Sale Opens: April 17, 2021

Land Auction:

Closes: April 21, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction

April 4, 2024

April 21, 2021

Ramona Quinn & The Estate of Terry Quinn

Farm Equipment Auction

Sage Farm Ltd. & DMB Farms Ltd.

Ramona Quinn & The Estate of Terry Quinn

306.861.281

Quinn Family Farms Ltd.

Quinn Family Farms Ltd.

306-486-4908 Or 306-421-1021

Khedive, SK

306-486-4908 Or 306-421-1021

Sale Opens: Monday April 19, 2021

Sale Opens: April 11, 2024

Closes: Friday April 23, 2021

April 15, 2024

Sale Opens: Monday April 19, 2021 Sale Closes: Friday April 23, 2021

Land Auction:

Farm Equipment Auction:

Brad Simpson & Garnet Cowan

Sharon Fox & The Estate of Joe Fox

Farm Equipment Auction:

Sharon Fox & The Estate of Joe Fox

306.577.7510

403.376.5523

306.577.7510

Gainsborough, SK

Manor, SK

Manor, SK

Sale Opens: April 24, 2021

Sale Opens: April 18, 2024

Sale Opens: April 24, 2021

Sale Closes: April 28, 2021

Sale Closes: April 28, 2021

Farm Equipment Auction:

Harvey & Barbara Hemphill

306.457.7078

Farm Equipment Auction: Harvey & Barbara Hemphill

306.457.7078

Stoughton, SK

Stoughton,

Sale Opens: April 26, 2021

Sale Opens:

Closes: April 30, 2021

From left, Ashley Olson Tony Walliser Sade Olson Curtis Walliser and Doris Walliser gather for a four-generation photo in 2015. An aerial view of Family View Farms.

Speakers from 4-H clubs entertain at Estevan banquet

The annual Estevan Farmers' Appreciation Evening once again provided an opportunity for local 4-H members to showcase their speaking skills.

Six youths from clubs in southeast Saskatchewan addressed a crowd of hundreds during the event Thursday night at the Beefeater Plaza. They delivered speeches that they had given previously during district and regional competitions.

Ella-Renn Slater from the Crossroads Multiple 4-H Club opened the speeches by discussing the history of the Yorkshire terrier dog breed. Slade Erdman of the Outram-Madigan Beef 4-H Club had a humourous look at whether money can buy happiness and reflected on the things it can purchase.

Ellie Hayes from the Benson Beef 4-H Club reflected on poverty in Estevan and the impact that the Hillcrest School Breakfast Club and other organizations

have on meeting people's needs.

Reid Vandenhurk of the Cymri Beef 4-H Club generated lots of laughs when he talked about his love of Lego and all he can do with it. Luke Vandenhurk, also of the Cymri Club, chronicled his experiences from pheasant hunting for the first time and his anticipation for next year. Finally, Breanne Wright from the Browning Multiple 4-H Club talked about missed opportunities from the past and her desire to make sure they don't happen again.

The two Vandenhurks have qualified for the provincial 4-H speaking competitions April 20 in Melville.

The speeches drew laughs, when appropriate, and lots of applause from the people who attended the event.

The speeches are regarded as a highlight of the Farmers' Appreciation Evening each year.

History-making hockey official also loves farming

By David Willberg

Alex Clarke describes herself as a farmer who was kicked in the knee by a cow, was forced to give up playing hockey, had a chance encounter with a hockey leader and worked her way up to become an on-ice official who has made history.

But she's also a wife and a mom who loves agriculture and wants people to enjoy the process of where they are going.

Clarke was the guest speaker at the Estevan Farmers' Appreciation Evening on Thursday night. A last-second substitute after the scheduled speakers had to back out. Clarke reflected on her experiences in which she became the first female official in the Western Hockey League (WHL), one of the first in the American Hockey League (AHL) and is now calling games in the newlyformed Professional Women's Hockey League. She has been a referee and a linesman at many games in the

Estevan area over the years, and she was also picked to officiate at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

"I'm definitely not used to clapping, I'm more used to booing," said Clarke to laughter from the audience.

When she's not at the rink, she serves as a relationship manager with Farm Credit Canada and resides with her husband and their two children at their farm near Griffin.

Clarke was raised on a mixed operation near Drake, and moved to Weyburn at the age of 15 to play hockey with the Weyburn U18 AAA Gold Wings program for three years. When she finished university, she returned home to the family farm for a short time, but was looking for a way to stay involved in the game.

"I was … drafted to play professional women's hockey in what was the CWHL [Canada Women's Hockey League], but I was nursing a bit of a knee injury which, coinciden-

tally, happened from a cow that kicked me, and I didn't rehab it properly, so I ended up choosing not to pursue professional hockey because my knee wasn't up for the task."

In the fall, she started working for FCC, and a short time later, had a chance encounter with the head of officiating for Hockey Saskatchewan. He encouraged her to become a referee because she could skate and had played the game at a

high level. She worked her way up through the ranks and decided she wanted something more with officiating. She reached out to the director of officials at the WHL, which she admits was frowned upon, and asked how she could improve to officiate in the league. The two met and she was given a tryout game in September 2021.

Before the game, the WHL sent out a press release

celebrating her accomplishment as their first-ever female on-ice official. She continues to officiate for them.

"I didn't follow the process that all of the guys follow, I didn't follow the process that they told me I was supposed to follow. I just followed my own process, and that's OK," she said.

When she officiated a tournament in Beijing a few years ago, she was 22 weeks pregnant. But she needed that competition on her resumé if she wanted to participate in the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

"There's goals that you can have, and there's so many different paths that you can take to get to those goals," she said.

Had she not enjoyed the journey of getting to the Olympics, she would have been disappointed with the end result of the Games, as COVID-19 restrictions were still in effect, which created a very different experience.

"Whether it's with the

farm, whether it's with family, whether it's with something you're passionately pursuing, just be very, very wary that we don't get so focused on where we're trying to go that we don't love the whole process of getting there," she said.

She recognizes from her time growing up on a farm, and now residing in the Griffin area, that everyone has to wear many hats to make the farm succeed and for the community to thrive. Clarke reminded the crowd that they shouldn't be afraid of failing, because "failing forward" can help them grow and improve as people.

"If we try something new, and it doesn't achieve the same results that we wanted, it doesn't get the yields that we wanted, it doesn't get whatever we wanted, that's OK, because we learned something, we grew from it, maybe we got decent yields, maybe we didn't, but we're not going to make that same mistake again," she said.

Alex Clarke was the guest speaker at this year’s Estevan Farmers’ Appreciation Evening.

J. Maude Horrocks 1938 - 2024 Maude Horrocks, late of Bienfait, SK passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the age of 85 years. Maude will forever be remembered by her family: 3 sons, Hal, Todd (Carla) and Jay R; grandchildren, Sarah (Wes) (daughter Jozie), Tyler, Jennifer (Tristen) (daughter Naomi), Danielle (Cole) and numerous extended family.

Maude was predeceased by her husband Harold (November 2023); her parents, Louis and Katherine Abood. The Memorial Service for Maude was held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Hall Funeral Services, Estevan, SK with Shirley Petterson officiating. The family invited everyone to join them at the Bienfait Legion for lunch following the service. In memory of Maude, memorial donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion, Box 207,

Police arrest motorists for drug-impaired driving

Members of the Estevan Police Service issued a couple of driving suspensions on March 20 to motorists caught driving while impaired by drugs.

A motor-vehicle stop resulted in the driver receiving a 60-day driver’s licence suspension and a 72-hour vehicle impoundment. The driver tested positive for THC on a roadside screening device.

A second motor vehicle stop the same day resulted in the driver receiving a three-day driver’s licence suspension and a 72-hour vehicle impoundment, after the driver tested positive for THC on a roadside screening device.

Officers also attended to a single-vehicle collision in south Estevan. The vehicle struck a SaskTel box, causing property damage. No injuries occurred for the occupants of the vehicle and the matter is still under investigation.

The EPS was also looking for information on a vehicle involved in a collision on March 8 in the 100 block of Fourth Street around 9:45 a.m. Anyone with information was asked to call the EPS.

In other recent police news, on March 18, the EPS received two separate reports of attempted telephone scams, in which the caller claimed to be the complainant’s grandchild, and was seeking money

to be released from jail. No funds were provided in either occurrence.

Anyone receiving similar telephone calls is urged to not provide any personal information or transfer money, and to report the matter to the EPS, as well as to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Police also received a complaint of a hit-and-run collision involving an SUV that fled the scene. The matter is still under investigation.

Members responded to a call through the Report Impaired Drivers (RID) line regarding a vehicle leaving a store parking lot on March 21. The vehicle was located a short time later. The driver tested positive for THC on the roadside screening device, and was issued a 72hour driver’s licence suspension and a three-day vehicle impoundment.

The same day, police responded to a report of a theft from a vehicle in a residential area. Several tools and other items were taken. A statement was obtained from the victim. The matter is under investigation.

In the afternoon and evening of March 22, the EPS was conducting high-visibility check stops for impaired drivers. Members stopped and

checked roughly 270 vehicles during the shift. Several mandatory breath tests were completed, and no alcoholimpaired drivers were located. Three adult drivers had their licences suspended after testing positive for drugs.

Members are also investigating a complaint of harassment after a person received an anonymous letter in the mail. The forensic identification unit will be assisting with the investigation.

Police also responded to a 911 call coming from 11th Avenue in front of the police station. A local taxi operator was asking for EMS as a passenger needed medical attention. Police assisted the man until EMS arrived, took care of the passenger and transported him to hospital for further treatment. The EPS dealt with 59 occurrences over the weekend. Of those occurrences, seven were tickets that were issued for various infractions under the Traffic Safety Act.

Police came upon a twovehicle collision. The driver of one of the vehicles was displaying signs of impairment and was required to perform a test on an oral fluid device. That driver failed the test and was arrested for impaired driving.

Police responded to a report of two males leaving a local business with a shopping

cart full of stolen items. Police attended and arrested one male for theft under $5,000. Police are still looking for the second male involved in the theft. A male attended the front desk at EPS to report an assault. The complainant had significant injuries assault and he was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment. Police later obtained a statement from the victim. As a result of the statement, police located and arrested the male who assaulted the victim.

Police received multiple reports of individuals checking the door handles of vehicles and garages late at night. Citizens are reminded to ensure that they lock their vehicles and buildings on their property.

The EPS has released more information regarding an alleged theft from a liquor store. The EPS said March 25 it was investigating the incident, which occurred on Feb. 18. A man captured in a photo was seen exiting the business.

In an update, the EPS said the subject was identified and he came in to the EPS on his own Monday. Police interviewed the subject and received more information that investigators were able to verify.

With the new information it was determined that no theft occurred in this instance.

Estevan Habitat for Humanity chapter needs new members

The Estevan chapter for Habitat for Humanity wants to continue with its efforts to help local families live in a home of their own.

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The chapter was formed in 2015 and since that time has completed two homes in northeast Estevan. But like others in the country, the Estevan chapter’s efforts were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everyone knows that the pandemic hit the build industry pretty hard, and made it quite difficult to fundraise for how much it does cost to build a home in today’s market,” said interim executive director Kelsey Stewart.

Also, the Habitat Saskatchewan affiliate was created in 2021 after the merger of the Regina, Saskatoon and Prince

Albert locations, so there has been a lot of change happening. Estevan is one of three chapters remaining in smaller communities in the province, along with Yorkton and Melfort.

The chapters are fully run by volunteer committees and access the Saskatchewan affiliate for support with financial reporting, marketing and more. Stewart said they have two dedicated volunteers, Calven Johnson and Tracey Schiestel, who are part of the Estevan chapter committee, but they need more. The Estevan chapter has mortgage payments coming in from its previous builds, so they have some money to continue building homes. A new build costs $200,000. They currently have about $42,000 in funds raised, and another $33,000 from mortgage payments.

“We do need to fundraise and just get the chapter back up and running,” said Stewart.

If Estevan did not have an active committee, if they don’t recruit new people, and if they

don’t have the support from the community, then Stewart said they wouldn’t have the means to continue. If the Estevan chapter were to close, then it wouldn’t affect the families who have benefited from previous builds.

Doug Barnstable, who had been the chairman of the Estevan committee since it started, has stepped down from the role. Stewart believes seven to 12 members would be an ideal number for the Estevan committee. He pointed out the Yorkton chapter has about a dozen members, but some are involved in specific aspects of the chapter, such as the family selection committee.

“We always would love to be building in our communities across the province,” said Stewart. “I will say that it’s no small feat. It is a lot of work and

it does take a lot of time to get things going, but we obviously do have a few dedicated committee members in Estevan, and I know that we have the support of the community.”

The land is already in place for the next build in Estevan, thanks to a donation of a parcel at the intersection of King Street and Hillcrest Drive.

Habitat for Humanity is starting to see construction ramp up in the province. A sodturning ceremony was recently held in Regina to celebrate two new builds, which will be the first for Habitat Saskatchewan since the pandemic. They also just had another event for a home in Prince Albert.

Yorkton is expected to break ground in a couple of months on a new home, bringing the total to four units in Saskatchewan.

Estevan Bruins lost twice in Melfort to open series

The Estevan Bruins dropped the first two games of their SJHL quarter-final series with the Melfort Mustangs.

Melfort won Game 1 5-1 on Friday night and Game 2 7-4 on Saturday to lead 2-0 in the best-of-seven clash.

Melfort’s Nolan Roberts opened the scoring 4:30 into the first period of Game 1, just moments after a missed call in which Bruins’ defenceman Holdin Getzlaf was hit by a Melfort opponent. The Bruins tied the game when Owen Barrow scored with less than a second to play in the opening frame.

Melfort took over in the second, with Leith Olafson and Aidyn Hutchinson scoring to give Melfort a 3-1 lead.

Chase Friedt-Mohr and Ryan Duguay tallied in the third to put the game away.

Jackson Miller stopped 26 shots for the Bruins, while James Venne made 19 saves for Melfort.

Cade Kennedy opened the scoring 13 seconds into the first period for the Bruins in Game 2, but Hutchinson tied the game just over two minutes later, and Friedt-Mohr and Duguay tallied to put Melfort up by two by the end of the first. Hutchinson had the lone goal of the second period.

Each team scored three times in the third. Nolan Patterson scored a short-handed goal early in the third for Melfort, but goals by Ilia Chmelevski and Felix Al -

lard less than two minutes apart pulled the Bruins to within two. Brayden Westerlund and Hutchinson scored to put Melfort up by four, and Alex ander Papaspyropoulos rounded out the scoring late in the third for Estevan. Papaspyropoulos (a goal and three assists) and Hutchinson (three goals and an assist) each had four-point games for their respective teams.

suspended for one game each. Bruins head coach and general manager Jason Tatarnic said the Mustangs had four players involved wearing full cages, while the Bruins had three wearing half visors, and Melfort’s players dropped the gloves first.

A line brawl broke out with 3:37 to play in the third, with four players from each team receiving fighting majors. Getzlaf and Roberts were

“I guess they deemed it, when they watched the video, that Getzlaf’s fight was the second fight. And they’re saying there was a fight before that,” said Tatarnic. Bruins’ captain Keagon Little was back in Estevan’s line-up on Saturday after serv-

ing a five-game suspension, stemming from an incident in Flin Flon in early March.

Miller started for the Bruins and made 16 saves on 20 shots. Wyatt Bouvier came in and gave up one goal on 11 shots; the other Melfort goals were into an empty net.

Venne had 23 saves for Melfort.

“I thought the second game we played really good, and we’ve been creating chances. We need to capitalize on some of those,” said Tatarnic. “We went at them pretty good the second game, and we could have deserved a better fate, but at the end of the day you have to keep the puck out of the net.”

The defensive play from the forwards and defence needs

to be better, and need improved play from the goalies, he said.

“At times, we’ve had some poor gap controls and missed coverage. There were some goals our goaltender would probably want back,” said Tatarnic.

Game 3 was slated for Tuesday night in Estevan. (Results were not available at press time). Game 4 is Wednesday night in Estevan at 7 p.m.

“Do we still believe we can win hockey games? Yeah, we do. We thought we were right there in Game 2,” said Tatarnic.

Game 5, if necessary, would be March 29 in Melfort.

Game 6 would be March 31 in Estevan and Game 7 would be April 2 in Melfort.

Mermaids wrap up the year with artistic show

The Estevan Mermaids Artistic Swimming Club presented their 2024 Water Show Sunday night at the Estevan Leisure Centre, to the delight of a big crowd of parents and guests.

“We had great attendance at the water show this year. Almost all of the seats were filled. We had increased our membership this season, so we had extra routines to show for a great crowd,” said Jessica Saxon, board member responsible for communications for the club.

The show, MCed by Amber and Sierra Mantei, featured solos, a duet and team routines. Preceding the performances, the MCs shared the athletes’ and teams’ recent achievements.

The night started with Mini Mermaids showing off their progress with the help of coaches Shannon Culy, Andri Groenveld and Alyssa Halkyard. Performing as Aquas were Embree Park, Eva Cossette,

Laikynn Shier, Lucy Hoffort, Mari Picton and Marreck Young. Daises featured Lexus and Lucia Peters, Remi Fornwald and Zalia Carlson. Atarah Thein, Aurora Noo, Sakura Moo, Natalie Vibe, Hailey Lafrentz, Eleanor Haagsman and Winter Raiwet performed as Marinas.

The solo routines featured individual programs by Sasha Mantei, Rowyn Shier, Isabelle Pyra, Sarah Greening, all coached by Amber Mantei and Kelsey Potoma, and Shyra Carlson, coached by Andri and Layli Groenveld. The only duet performance for the night was by Diana Rokn and Asa Fatoorechi, coached by Andri and Layli Groenveld.

Team routines saw Blue Maccaws performed by the 10U limited team, featuring Sophia Vibe, Ella Biette, Kayden Pukas, Eva Meyers, Brinley Groenveld and Jillianne Velasquez, coached by Potoma; T Swizzle per -

formed by the 10U limited team, featuring Lexington Beaudry, Brooklyn Saxon, Ciara Schell and Mackenzie Delainey, coached by Potoma; Beach Girls performed by the junior limited team, featuring Lainey Halkyard, Ava Collomb, Harper Davies, Ella Rubiletz and Violetta Andrieieva, coached by Amber Mantei; and a performance by the youth mixed competitive team, featuring Sarah and Isabelle Pyra, Mahaley Fonstad, Sierra and Sasha Mantei, Rowyn Shier and Rory Miller, coached by Potoma and Amber Mantei.

teams thrive at home competition

“The athletes did a great job, especially since most of the teams had a member who was new to the sport of artistic swimming. The athletes were proud to display their skills to the audience that included family and friends,” Saxon noted. “All of the athletes have improved in some form. Many have worked hard to learn their routines and challenge themselves with new figures and hybrids.”

Following the main program, departing coach Andri Groenveld and graduating athlete Sasha Mantei were celebrated. All volunteer coaches were also invited to come up for recognition.

The night came to an end with a grand finale with all the Mermaids in the water for their last blast of artistic swimming.

Saxon noted that the sport rebranded itself from synchronized swimming to artistic swimming in 2016, and they continue to explain the name change to help educate spectators about the changes that have occurred with the sport.

She also thanked everyone involved with the club for their ongoing dedication and support.

“I would like to thank all of our board members, coaching staff and parents who have helped make our club successful. Also, a big thank you to all of our corporate sponsorship companies,” Saxon said.

Goldwings defeated the Boissevain Border Kings in the C final and the Watford City Oilers beat the Estevan Bearcats 2 in the D final. Games were played sat Affinity Place and the Power Dodge Arena from Friday to Sunday.

The Estevan Ironside Energy U11 AA Bruins wrapped up their season by finishing third at the South East Minor Hockey League’s year-end tournament on March 15 and 16 in Nipawin.

Caelem Desautels scored twice in the first period for the Bruins, and Dexx Tendler had three goals in the game.

Hewitt, Dane Johnson and Payton Molstad also scored, with the latter two goals going into an empty net to put the game away. Estevan finished second in their pool and in the semifinal, faced the North East Wolfpack, the top-ranked team from the other group. The Wolfpack won 11-2. Tendler and Parker LarsenStepp scored for Estevan.

Estevan opened the tournament by playing the Moosomin Ice Badgers and the Melville Millionaires in the round robin. In their first game, Estevan lost 8-3 to top-ranked Moosomin. All three of Estevan’s goals were scored in the second period, with Kolter Snell, Huxton Mosley and Jordan Hewitt scoring for Estevan. Their next game was a must-win contest to remain in contention for the league title, and Estevan responded with an 8-4 win over Melville.

Madden Kingdon made 35 saves in the loss.

Their final game was the bronze-medal contest versus the Yorkton Terriers. Estevan scored four times in the opening period, with Jase Garagan scoring twice early and Hewitt adding two goals as well. Estevan played well in the second, hitting four posts, but Yorkton scored twice and added two more in the third.

Both teams exchanged rushes and scoring chances, and JJ Nagy came up with some big saves to keep Estevan in the game. Hewitt scored the winner on a Bruins’ power play with 3:37 to play in the extra frame.

Sixteen teams were in Estevan on the weekend for the Estevan Minor Hockey Association’s annual Lemon Wedge Marketing Female Challenge under-9 carded and U11 female hockey tournaments.

In the U9 division, the Estevan Bearcats defeated the Milestone Selects 9-3 in the A final to take top spot. The Regina Rebels beat the Twin City Sabrecats in the B final, the Prairie Lynx knocked off the Yorkton Terriers in the C final and the Moose Jaw Mavericks beat the

Weyburn Goldwings to win the D event. In the U11 division, the Prairie Storm out of Balgonie blanked the Estevan Bearcats 6-0 in the A final. In the other division, the Swift Current Colts won the B division against the Lumsden-Bethune Lynx, the Weyburn

The competitive team impressed during the grand finale performance at the yearend water show. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Members of the Estevan U9 carded Bearcats were, back row, from left, Julie Bakke, Kaylyn Wolensky and Meigan Wilhelm. Middle row, Adalyn lasko, Audree Jutras Hadley Blaise Claire Assoumbang Haylee Poelen and Rory Sands. Front row, Paige Wilhelm Harper Bakke and Maddyn Wolensky. Goalie is Eva Longman. Missing is Addison Cote.

Photo courtesy of Kaylyn Wolensky

The Estevan Ironside Energy U11 AA Bruins finished third at their year-end tournament in Nipawin. Photo courtesy of Jill Desautels

TJ Thompson attends football camp

TJ Thompson of Estevan had a great football learning experience, as he attended the top-50 junior varsity football prospects camp for Western Canada in Richmond, B.C., from March 15-17.

TJ was selected for the gathering after he attended the Canada Football Chat (CFC) Fox 40 Prospect Challenge in Moose Jaw earlier this year. While in Moose Jaw, he participated in a combine, drills, plays and a scrimmage. He was the youngest player present, as he is a 12-year-old in Grade 7, and the camp was for Grade 8-12 students.

In an email to the Mercury and SaskToday, his mother Kathy said TJ wanted to attend just for the experience and went in without any

expectations.

“After the tryout camp in Moose Jaw, TJ was selected as one of the top 50 junior varsity football prospects in Western Canada,” wrote Kathy. “The CFC held tryouts for months at various locations in Western Canada, including Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary and Surrey, to name a few.”

The 50 players in the junior varsity age group were supposed to be 13-15 years old, and they were split up in to two teams of 25. The weekend opened on March 15 with registration, jersey handouts, weigh-ins, the chance to meet other players and coaches, and a no-equipment practice.

A full day of practices and a combine occurred on the second day. Team Black defeated Team White in an intersquad game to wrap up the camp.

“It is really about the opportunity to showcase your

skills and talent to scouts and coaches,” Kathy wrote.

“Although TJ was the youngest and smallest player, he saw lots of playing time in the game while playing both sides of the ball, as a running back and a cornerback. While playing defence he got the only interception of the game.

“The coaches were very impressed with his passion and determination, and were shocked to find out he was only in Grade 7, as he was not intimidated by these much bigger and older players. He definitely earned the respect of teammates and coaches. He took some hard hits and tackles but bounced up every time, ready to go.” She said the coaches were extremely knowledgeable and

encouraging, and TJ learned a lot from the coaches and older players in a short period of time.

TJ has been playing football locally with Brandt Truck & Trailer Estevan Minor Football since he was seven. He has won several local MVP awards over the years, and was part of the Estevan U12 Chargers team that won the Moose Jaw Minor Football League championship in 2021. He won the league’s U12 Offensive MVP Award in 2022. He has also played with the Sask. Selects at the Pigskin Classic in Texas. He has also been training in the offseason with Wolverine Football Training in Regina to enhance his skills.

Torquay U11 Lions win southeast league title

The Torquay U11 Lions capped off their season on Thursday, defeating the Milestone Flyers 11-7 in Torquay to take home the division’s 2023-24 title in the South East Minor Hockey League.

The Lions got off to a hot start in the final game, scoring four quick goals that wound up being the difference in the final outcome.

The Lions had a memorable season with a 38-4 record, including exhibition games, regular season contests, playoffs and tournaments.

They avenged every loss they suffered except one. Torquay finished in first place in the SEMHL during the regular season, won tournaments in both Minot and Crosby, and finished second in the Estevan tournament.

TJ Thompson attended a recent football camp in B.C. Photo by Bernie Crump

Members of the Torquay U11 Lions were, back row, from left, Daniel Daae Rhett Trombley Mark Mason and Dustin Lesy. Middle row, Kylan Locken Jude Shackleton Nathan Tosczak Jax Trombley Mason Lesy Easton Daae Mychal Daae Kyler Berg and Lexey Lievaart. Front row, Isabelle England Michael Martens Bentley Hanson Emmett Mason and Emmett Pederson. Missing is Morgan Shackleton. Photo courtesy of Nicki Berg

Adventure Wranglers captivate families with reptile show in Estevan

Families in the Estevan area learned more about snakes, turtles and more during a visit by the Adventure Wranglers’ Reptile Show on Saturday at Spruce Ridge School.

The Estevan Early Years Family Resource Centre brought the event to Estevan. Families encountered a variety of reptiles, including snakes, turtles and more. They also learned more about the creatures.

The Adventure Wranglers made a presentation to the public.

Elisa Wilke, who goes by the stage name Wrangler Elisa, said they brought a variety of reptiles to the city, including snakes, lizards, tortoises, amphibians and a tarantula. A western hognose snake, which can be found in southern Saskatchewan, was among the reptiles people encountered.

Approximately 400 people were in attendance.

“We do these because children and teenagers learn by observing, listening, exploring, experimenting and asking questions,” said Wilke. “During our shows, they get all these opportunities.”

During the presentation, the Adventure Wranglers covered why it’s important to leave wild animals in their natural surroundings, and how to help animals in the Saskatchewan environment.

“We learn about the animals that join us on stage. Talking about what they are, where they come from in the wild,” said Wilke. “Also, we cover the responsibilities of pet ownership and why it is important

to research before getting a pet.”

Wilke said they tend not to travel with the reptiles during the winter months. Instead, they spread their message with their dinosaur, mermaid and fairy shows.

Misty Pennington, who is the family centre’s director of programs and community engagement, said they were excited to bring something different to Estevan.

“It’s an opportunity families might not have if they don’t leave Estevan,” said Pennington. They had heard Adventure Wranglers had a great presentation, and they were pleased with what was offered and the number of people who turned out.

In addition to the appearance for the family centre, the Adventure Wranglers attended a birthday party in Estevan for a young girl who still has the Adventure Wranglers’ poster on her wall from when she saw them last year. It’s proof, Wilke said, of their impact.

Wilke said the shows also give the kids an opportunity to see animals grow up, as some of the reptiles are the same as in previous years and others are new. Responsible pet ownership is an important part of their presentation.

“You don’t get a pet and trade it away for a new one the next year. Neither do we when we accept a pet into our home. We provide a caring home for their whole life. That is why research before getting a pet is so important,” she wrote.

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Mayor’s Message

Mayor’s Message

With this week being Anti-Bullying week, please reflect an on going issue. Let’s try to work together to

With this week being Anti-Bullying week, please reflect an on going issue. Let’s try to work together to

For Public Safety

For Public Safety

from the north side of 4th Street North 40 meters.

(2) No person shall dump any substance on any highway, public sidewalk, boulevard or ditch within the City of Estevan.

(2)

(3)

(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 nonpayment 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.

snow, ice or other obstructions at the expense of such occupants or owner, and in the event of the nonpayment 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.

* 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.

Pursuant to subsection 187(1) of The Cities Act, notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the City of Estevan for the year of 2024, has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: March 18, 2024, to April 17, 2024.

Bylaw No. 2023-2066 required under section 184(2) of The Cities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment or classification to the Board of Revision is required to file notice of appeal with:

Secretary to the Board of Revision – City of Estevan

1102 Fourth Street Estevan, SK S4A 0W7

On or before 4:30 pm on the 17th day of April 2024.

For further information, please contact the Tax Department - City of Estevan (306) 634-1811.

Trina Sieben, Tax Assessor, City of Estevan

CITY OF ESTEVAN REQUEST FOR QUOTE

Herbicide application for

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Equipment 4. Herbicide 5. Insurance Verification

Submission Deadline

All proposals must be submitted in writing by April 2, 2024, at 10:30 cst.

Emailed submissions will not be accepted. Late submissions will not be considered.

Proposal clearly marked – Herbicide application 3-year City of Estevan

Contact Information For inquiries and proposal submissions, Please contact Shannon Wanner, Parks Manager 1102 4th st., Estevan, Sk, S4A 0W7 306-634-1833 • s.wanner@estevan.ca – Inquires only.

Lowest or any quote not necessarily accepted

The Estevan Police Service is seeking applications for the position of Police Constable.

The Estevan Police Service offers a competitive salary and benefits package, ongoing professional development, and a range of career opportunities. Currently serving and trained Canadian police officers are encouraged to apply.

All candidates must possess minimum qualifications, including the following:

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* 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.

special assessment to be recovered in like manner as and with the taxes.

Elisa Wilke with the Adventure Wranglers brought Carlos the corn snake to Estevan. Photos by David Willberg

Ducky, a yellow-footed tortoise, was one of the popular attractions.