Fine Lifestyles Estevan Weyburn Jan/Feb 2014 by Fine Lifestyles

JAN/FEB 2014 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1

ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

BRENDON LABATTE Hometown Boy Lives Grey Cup Dream

WEDDING FEATURE THE SNOW BIKE MAKING NEW TRACKS

YEAR ROUND RESOLUTIONS

Budget Blinds is Regina and surrounding area’s #1 choice for all your window covering needs!

Budget Blinds is South East Saskatchewan’s #1 choice for all your window covering needs. Budget Blinds is North America’s largest window covering company, which provides the competitive edge on products and buying power. Budget Blinds is locally owned and operated. Leanne Fisher, owner, is proud to call Locally owned and operated, Leanne Fisher is proud to call Saskatchewan Saskatchewan home again after moving to Alberta for college 13 years ago. “If you ask any after moving to Alberta college years ago. so “If many you ask any of our staff why home we do again what we do, they will say it`s for because we13get to meet great of our staff why we do what we do...they will all answer...because we get to people. Our staff makes the difference.” meet so many great people”. Our staff makes the difference! In addition to In addition to offering a competitive Budget Blinds educates their customers about providing customers price, with education about each product at a competitive each product; their staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home atmosphere price – our staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home to make the window coveringtoprocess easy. atmosphere make the window covering process easy. If it’s having product air shipped and installing at 11 p.m. on a Friday night to prepare for a wedding Natalie Gray lives in Weyburn, and is proud to be your local Style Consultant. Budget Blinds day, or coverings! aiding an elder customer with cleaning her windows is out to change the howfollowing you buy window “We come to your home to measure so you while we’re up on the ladder – we are different – we go the extra mile! get the perfect product that meets your needs, the perfect fit and then provide professional installation to ensure a beautiful view.” In addition to custom blinds, Budget Blinds also provides are out to change how you buy window coverings! Shop your a large variety ofWe custom draperies, bedding, headboards, decorative pillows andwhere area rugs! Natalie Gray, Local Style Consultant windows are. We come to you! Explore fabrics, materials, choices and 534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. features from hundreds of product styles and colors. We measure so you e-mail: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca #3 - 1433 Hamilton Street, Regina, SK get the perfect fit, and then provide professional installation to ensure a www.budgetblinds.com e-mail: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca beautiful view. www.budgetblinds.com

Come visit our new location and see our expanded showroom

Call Callto to book book your your free in-home in-home consultation consultation 2

REGINA & AREA: 306.949.2300 Estevan and Area 306.634.5328 | Weyburn and Area 306.842.5328 FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

Chantal Brown, owner

Locally owned and operated since 2004 Specializing in trendy home decor, Colonial Candles, chic scarves, purses and jewellery brands such as Lenny & Eva, Pinkstix and Good Works. The Void also has a baby boutique on the main floor featuring clothing brands like See Kai Run, Petit Lem, Noppies, Isobella & Chloe, and Mexx arriving this Spring. You will also find Ingrid & Isabel maternity tights and tops, as well as Bellabands, children's toys, diaper bags and so much more.

The Void Home DĂŠcor | Jewellery | Baby Boutique

38 6th Street, Weyburn | 306.842.4499 | thevoid109@hotmail.com FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

FineLifestyles Estevan/Weyburn

WITH FINE LIFESTYLES EDITOR SARAH VERMETTE

aving celebrated the end of a year, we’re now looking forward to seeing what 2014 will bring. In celebration, this issue recounts one of the biggest victories of 2013 — the recent Grey Cup success of Weyburn’s own Roughrider Brendon LaBatte. From construction, to fashion, to leisure, Fine Lifestyles highlights why Estevan and Weyburn are among the best places to live. Digging deeper, the business section looks at a few of the area’s top companies, such as SaskPower, and explores why these companies shine as best places to work. Visit some of the area’s local shop owners and learn more about what they have to offer, whether it’s in the shop with personal service, or by actively giving back to the community. Many businesses, such as Weyburn Co-op, consider community involvement part of their role — local support helps them to continue giving back. Last, but not least, the chill of Saskatchewan winter lends the perfect opportunity to settle in with a hot drink and indulge in our extensive wedding feature, which showcases flowers, dresses, tropical destinations and more. As you plan your year ahead, refer to our Year Round Resolutions article for 10 simple ways to take care of yourself. Best wishes for a happy 2014! finemags

@finemags

Jan/Feb 2014 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1 www.finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor Sarah Vermette

sarahv@finelifestyles.ca

Staff Writers Alyssa Rudyck Apolline Lucyk Courtney Tait Rebecca Schneidereit

Tobie Hainstock Tonya Lambert Tori Stafford Trina Annand

Production Designer Natasha Burkholder

In-house Design Amber Moon Cyndi Koshowski Brittany Lloy Danielle Austin Brittany Pickrem Elisa Malfitana Lisa Redden

Cover Photography Christan Barker Photography

Photography DeMo Photography Images by Gillies Doug Sully Jenn Gregory Geoffrey Creighton Kimball V / CHELphoto Heather Fritz Saskatchewan Roughriders SaskPower

Contributing Writers Eldon Rondeau Meredith Heron Ken Beattie Michelle Hatzel Lisa Drader-Murphy Paul Huber Megan Lust Sarah Vermette Shell Busey

Sales Manager / Co-Publisher Brooke Watson

brooke@finelifestyles.ca

Advertising Consultants

Brooke Watson Sales Manager/Co-Publisher 306.551.4789 brooke@finelifestyles.ca

Harmony Resler Advertising Consultant 306.421.2606 harmonyr@finelifestyles.ca

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Britany Culham Advertising Consultant 306.861.1255 britany@finelifestyles.ca

Subreena Kaban Advertising Consultant 306.421.6324 subreenak@finelifestyles.ca

Britany Culham Crystal Reich Harmony Resler Jacob Dietrich Nicole Zielinski Subreena Kaban

britany@finelifestyles.ca crystal@finelifestyles.ca harmonyr@finelifestyles.ca jacobd@finelifestyles.ca nicolez@finelifestyles.ca subreenak@finelifestyles.ca

Distribution wayne@finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn is published six times a year by Fine Lifestyles Ltd. All contents of Fine Lifestyles publications are copyrighted 2013 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles or the companies it represents. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation. Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060 Return undeliverables to: 3440 Balsam Grove; Regina, Saskatchewan; S4V 1H1

E M B R A CI NG T H E A RT S Leading the way for 50 years

2014 marks the 50th anniversary of the Weyburn Arts Council, the first arts council in Saskatchewan. Through the years, many skilled artists have originated from Weyburn, and local talent continues to flourish. The Weyburn Arts council, led by a group of dedicated volunteers, strives to offer the possibility for everyone to experience the arts, and develop their creative qualities, in a fun and encouraging atmosphere. An extensive permanent collection, three galleries (Allie Griffin, Signal Hill, and the Credit Union), and programming for the arts are all available in the City of Weyburn.

CE L E B R AT I NG T H E A RT S Showcasing Local Talent January 31st

Painters, potters, sculptors, mixed media, photographers and fiber artists are gathering January 31st for the Annual James Weir Peoples Choice exhibition. This is a special event, as it showcases Weyburn’s local talent and offers everyone an opportunity to vote for his or her favorite piece. 30 years ago the Weyburn Arts council handed out the first ever James Weir People’s Choice Award to Yvette Moore. It will be a distinct honor to have Yvette in attendance to present the award to this year’s winner. Take the opportunity to view and vote on the works of art throughout the Month of January at the Allie Griffin Gallery. Join the Weyburn Arts Council at a reception on January 31st, 7pm at the Allie Griffin Gallery for the announcement of the winner.

TOP “Just…roll with it” artist, Heather van der Breggen. City of Weyburn permanent collection donated by the Minard family. Photograph by Kim Schneider MIDDLE “Cookie Monster” artist, Yvette Moore BOTTOM “Play Time Melody” artist, Yvette Moore

www.weyburnartscouncil.ca FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sInside

96 FEATURE STORIES 8

Lisa Drader-Murphy: For the Love of Houndstooth 12 Wedding Feature 29 Year Round Resolutions 56 COVER: Brendon LaBatte: Hometown Boy Lives Grey Cup Dream 6

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96 Shell Busey: Clean Air in the Home Starts with Clean Ducts 100 Planning and Vision Essential for Oil & Gas Sector 126 The Snow Bike: Making New Tracks

126

8 44 100

DEPARTMENTS 8 29 47 56 63 100

Style Health and Wellness Arts, Dining and Entertainment Sports, Recreation and Travel House and Home Oil & Gas

105 Business 126 Wheels 129 Realtor Directory 130 Retail Market Place 137 Oil and Gas Directory

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For the Love of HOUNDSTOOTH BY LISA DRADER-MURPHY, NATIONAL FASHION COLUMNIST PHOTOS GEOFFREY CREIGHTON MODEL SARAH MURPHY

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By Lisa Drader-Murphy, photo Jenn Gregory

FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

s winter hints at arriving, one of my favourite fabrics to work with is supple woolen traditional houndstooth (or hound’s tooth). Referred to by the French as “pied de poule” and to North Americans also as “dog’s tooth.” This classic weave can be found in almost everyone’s closet. It is androgynously embraced, succeeds in any scale, and may manifest as comfortable tradition or cutting edge. Houndstooth is characterized by a large checked pattern, broken checks or abstract four-pointed shapes, with notched corners suggestive of a canine’s tooth. An example of a tessellation, houndstooth is most often in black and white. A tessellation is the tiling of a plane using one or more geometric shapes, called tiles, with no overlaps and no gaps. In mathematics, tessellations can be generalized to higher dimensions. Another mathematical idea that can be portrayed through tessellations is symmetry. Their repetitive nature is both soothing to the eye and creatively stimulating. Tessellation designs are seen regularly on textiles, woven, stitched or printed, houndstooth arguably being among the most recognizable. Houndstooth originated in Scotland, some believe as early as the fourth century, when tartans were worn to identify clans in battle. During this time, houndstooth was one of the few plaids with no designated clan. Consequently, wearing the pattern became a sort of strategy for peace — perhaps akin to sporting the blue and white of the United Nations. (Ironically, this pattern was part of Scotland’s lead in the creation of camouflage cloths.) The pattern made a resurgence in the 12th century, emerging on fabric in the Scottish Lowlands, and in variations such as the Glenurquhart Check and Glen Plaid. These woven woolens remained popular in and around the Scottish Lowlands into the 1800s, where the shepherds wore houndstooth as a heavy outer garment. According to John Telfer Dunbar’s “The Costume of Scotland,” houndstooth was originally made on woven wool cloth, but it has since made its way to tweed and other fabrics. By the 1930s, upper-class city folk were wearing

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houndstooth as a status symbol — a far cry from its battlefield beginnings. Since then, the classic woven pattern has found its way into numerous couture collections by the likes of Christian Dior, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. While it did experience a respectable level of popularity, houndstooth did not become truly iconic until Christian Dior used it in a pair of court shoes in 1959. The interesting graphic nature of the weave has inspired many designers over the years, and in the 1930s, the pattern was adopted by the upper class as a symbol of wealth. During the 1960s, houndstooth dominated the international fashion scene, from the famous court pointed shoe on Christian Dior’s ads to the runways of Ann Klein and Geoffrey Beene. By the mid-90s, fashion houses of Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani and Moschino regularly featured the iconic weave. The traditional pattern has found its way into many fibres and weights and has become a recurring fashion theme. Once used exclusively for overcoats, it can now be seen in dresses, skirts, scarves, hats and home décor items. I love styling this enduring trend head to toe or mixing it with bright solids like crimson and teal. For those who prefer only a nod to the weave, a handbag or fedora is perfect for finishing a winter look.

Mel's on Third, located in downtown Weyburn, is proud to offer two options for your special day. The first option is a tuxedo rental: Black & Lee and Derk's Formals are our rental providers. Choose from a wide selection of tuxedo styles and fits, as well as numerous colour options for your vest, tie and pocket square accessories.

Your second option is a suit purchase:

In-store alterations from Sheri-Lou's adds to the convenience of shopping for your special day! We look forward to being a part of your wedding or graduation day!

Mel's offers 20 per cent off in stock suits, shirts and ties for grooms and groomsmen who choose to purchase. Mel's also extends these same options and discounts to high school graduates in Weyburn and surrounding area.

306.842.3878 49 3rd St., Weyburn

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

Planning a

DESTINATION WEDDING Start a Lifetime of Happiness with the Time of Your Life BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT

uestion: What’s better than combing white sand beaches, splashing through tide pools, and watching a sunset fade into starlight? Answer: Doing it all with the love of your life. If you’re considering saying your vows on a destination wedding, you’ll have lots of exciting choices to make. Below, Louise Gardiner, Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s senior director of Leisure Travel and Terry Lynn Slaunwhite, Expedia CruiseShipCenters travel consultant, offer advice to help create a destination wedding you’ll still be talking about at your golden anniversary.

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When to Go The siren song of surf and shore is cause enough to hold a destination wedding, but certain factors can make this type of ceremony an especially smart choice. Those in their 20s and 30s tend to favour destination ceremonies, Gardiner and Slaunwhite both note. “It avoids the fuss, and it’s very cost effective,” says Gardiner. “It’s actually less costly to have a destination wedding than to do a wedding at home.” The younger demographic inclines towards tourism regardless of marital status, Slaunwhite says. “They’re just travelling like crazy!”

Gardiner and Slaunwhite also agree that destination weddings are popular for remarriages. “It’s something a little bit different from what they did the first time,” Gardiner explains. In addition, she says, couples may prefer a destination wedding if guests are geographically scattered: “Rather than flying into your hometown, you’re flying down to a destination.”

Where to Go The words “destination wedding” conjure visions of blue skies and ocean views: the Caribbean. But, a “Caribbean wedding” is only a starting point — each of the Caribbean islands boasts its own culture and charms. The Dominican Republic, particularly Punta Cana, is a frequent choice, says Gardiner. “Punta Cana is, right now, the No. 1 destination in the bride magazines,” she says. “I think that’s because of price point and value — and also because they have the most amazing beaches.” Wedding parties visiting Punta Cana would be well advised to consider accommodations at the Majestic Colonial, she notes. “They’re very efficient — [a] nice resort for big groups.”

For a more unconventional Caribbean backdrop, Gardiner suggests Antigua or St. Lucia. “Those two destinations are just a little more off the beaten path,” she says. “Antigua has stingrays,” and volcanic St. Lucia features mountain and rainforest regions. In either Antigua or St. Lucia, Gardiner recommends Sandals resorts. “Sandals is still the premiere. Weddings are their specialty.” (Other Sandals locations exist in the Bahamas, Grenada and Jamaica.) If your “perfect wedding” is less about beachside lounging and more about exploration and adventure, the Mayan Riviera — a narrow band tracing the Mexican shoreline — could be just the thing. “The Mayan Riviera has a lot more going if you want to be really active,” says Gardiner, and her list of regional attractions (catamarans, cenotes, fishing, snorkeling, ziplining) will keep anyone’s mind off pre-wedding jitters. Travellers to the Mayan Riviera may wish to stay at Karisma’s El Dorado Royale. Gardiner’s an avowed fan: “They have a gourmet-inclusive resort… they’re known for their food.” The El Dorado Royale’s website highlights another fun touch —

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Before You Go Even DIY experts may want assistance planning a destination wedding. “I don’t think the destination wedding is something you’d want to do on your own,” says Gardiner. “Not that it’s at all complicated, but there are just little tricks of the trade that you’d want a travel counsellor to help you with.” For instance — as Slaunwhite discovered while planning her wedding — travel agents may have exclusive booking rights. “We had to get a travel agent to book the ‘block’ rooms on the cruise,” she says. Cruise lines and resorts specializing in destination weddings typically provide clients with wedding consultants, Gardiner and Slaunwhite say. And prior to picking a destination, a local travel agency can set you on the right course, perhaps offering perks of its own. For instance, Carlson Wagonlit Travel clients have access to an online registry, Gardiner notes. “You can actually register your wedding with CWT, and have your guests buy gift certificates toward your wedding and/or honeymoon.”

not only do they offer swimming pools and swim-up bars, but also “swim up suites.” If heat and sand are not your thing, don’t rule out a destination wedding — Europe boasts a host of perfect locations. Give your fairy tale its “happily ever after” in Germany; play the “English rose” and “knight in shining armour” in London; toast vero amore in Italy. “We did a Princess wedding in a castle in Ireland,” recounts Gardiner. “It was the most beautiful destination, and the vistas were amazing… who would not want to get married in an Irish castle?” Likewise, not much can compete with a glamorous cruise wedding. Just ask Terry Lynn Slaunwhite — her successful cruise nuptials are what inspired her to become a travel consultant. She and her fiancé “had our first cruise in 2007,” she says.

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“In port on St. Martin, we got engaged.” On a second cruise, they followed the shipboard engagement with a ceremony at sea. “The whole thing was just fantastic… so easy… so much fun.” Many cruise lines are equipped for weddings; some even offering material incentives. For example, Slaunwhite — who sailed with Princess for both her engagement and wedding cruises — received “credits” based on the length of her guest list, which she used to provide favours to guests. To combine shipboard style with continental elegance, consider Gardiner’s suggestion: river cruising. “I just recently took a river cruise from Paris down to Monte Carlo, and I can envision this as an amazing wedding opportunity,” she says.

Don’t get so distracted planning colours, flowers and food that you forget the legal details. “It’s not always easy to get all the legal paperwork done when you’re ‘at destination,’ especially if you’re doing a destination that is Spanish-speaking,” says Gardiner. “Legal documentation has to be translated into Spanish, and then you receive Spanish documentation once you do get married. And then once you get back into Canada, you have to get it translated all back into English.” The legalities are just as convoluted aboard cruises. “If you want to get married at sea, your marriage license is actually for wherever the cruise ship is registered,” says Slaunwhite. “But if you’re married in port, you’re married for wherever the port is.” One possible solution? Take care of legal niceties at home. “We often suggest that you have a symbolic wedding ‘at destination,’” notes Gardiner. With a little advance planning, a destination wedding is the perfect way to have the “time of your life” — and start a lifetime’s happiness.

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

FIRST-RATE CATERING FOR ANY OCCASION BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT PHOTOS IMAGES BY GILLIES

&M Concession has spent 29 years perfecting firstrate homemade meals. Cooking from Crescent Point Place and Tom Zandee Sports Arena, they’ve comfortably fed groups of nearly 1,000. “We can cater to anything,” says Myrna McFadden, founder/owner: business meetings, school lunches, weddings, workshops. “Nothing is too large or too small.”

When choosing a caterer, volume won’t be your only concern. Individual attention to each plate is just as important. Fortunately, M&M Concession offers quality, too. After three decades, they’ve amassed a repertoire of surefire winners. McFadden can easily name a few “greatest hits”: cabbage rolls (German or Ukrainian style), roast beef, stuffed chicken breast. Then there’s dessert — “cheesecake is always a favourite,” she says. M&M Concession’s

kitchen crafts each course. “We pride ourselves on making everything fresh and homemade.” The menu is flexible; clients are free to add or alter dishes. “We’re open to just about anything,” says McFadden. Wedding parties can take time choosing a lineup: “we usually finalize the menu about a month before the wedding.” Even after that, small changes can often be incorporated. Those with extra dietary

BACK ROW Nathan Koszman, Myrna McFadden (Owner), Ryan Hennie FRONT ROW Karrie McFadden, Tanya Kwochka, Tobi Erb, Twyla Marr FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

“M&M Concession catered our summer wedding. We were beyond pleased with the service and value. The supper and midnight lunch were both excellent. Dealing with Myrna before the wedding was a pleasure as well. We would highly recommend M&M Concession’s catering service to anyone!” —Tyler & Amanda Hill “M&M Concession has catered our annual Ukrainian Dance Zabava for the past two years. They were able to provide a menu to feed approximately 180 people. They were able to meet our request for a homemade Ukrainian menu. Our organization would recommend M&M Concession for any catering event big or small.” —Kraplenka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble “Myrna and her staff have been providing catering services to our organization for several years now. Their service is always top notch — they think of every little detail to make our meals memorable and enjoyable. Once you try M&M for your catering needs, we are certain you will be hooked!” —Andria Brady, Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop Corp

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needs are welcome to bring up concerns. “We’ve been able to accommodate everyone to this point!” Two serving styles are offered: M&M Concession can either deliver food for clients to “dish up” at their leisure — later returning to clear tableware — or stay onsite to serve guests personally and tidy. They’re happy to provide refreshments to various locations: “indoors, outdoors, farms, wherever they’ve chosen,” and they remain adaptable — no matter what’s in store. “We had an instance last year where there were two weddings, same day — we were doing both. The weather changed dramatically,” recounts McFadden. “One venue had to change from outside to inside. We managed to accommodate that within half an hour; the other one — we just rolled our pants up and walked through the mud!” In addition to catering, M&M Concession serves eat-in diners from Crescent Point Place. It isn’t just individuals using the facility who visit that location: “We have

people just come in off the street for supper or for lunch.” Convenient hours make M&M Concession an excellent choice for either meal. “We are open for lunches from 11:30 to 1:30 — then we’re back and open by 4:00, 4:30, for any hockey that’s going on,” says McFadden. “We’re open seven days a week.” The extensive choice that characterizes M&M Concession’s catering is in full effect at Crescent Point Place. “We have a different menu every day,” says McFadden, as well as weekday lunch specials. The inhouse-only dry ribs alone are worth the pilgrimage. “We’ve been told they’re just the best.” Their hamburgers have also garnered praise, having been “voted best rink burger by TSN staff during the 2005 Royal Bank Cup,” says McFadden. “We felt like we had just won the cup ourselves!” M&M Concession’s full schedule requires many hands, including “three prep cooks on staff, as well as volunteers who come in to help with the larger catering events,” McFadden notes. Many staff members are school-aged, and McFadden is lavish in her praise of her “students.” “I’m very lucky

to have each and every one of them,” she says. “My students are awesome.” M&M Concession’s reputation alone earns them plenty of business. “For every one event we do, there’s probably five phone calls, or five visits.” In fact, although M&M Concession handles multiple catering jobs daily, it’s preferable to act quickly if you’re considering scheduling them for a wedding. “For our everyday catering, sometimes it’s just a week’s notice, sometimes it’s two days’ notice,” says McFadden. “But usually, with weddings and things, we’re booked up at least six months to a year ahead.” Phone or come down personally to book your taste of M&M Concession. M&M Concession Box 971, 327 Mergens Street, Weyburn 306.842.6066 (restaurant) 306.861.9551 (cell) STAFF L-R Ashley Koszman, Baillie Koszman, Brooke Sterling, Kimberly Trobert, Brenda Alton, Lorraine Trobert, Jade Pelechaty, Myrna McFadden, Hailey Walkeden, Jami Kwochka, Dexter Happ, Cayler Johnston, Justin Claude, Kyle Frison

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

2014’s Gowns Offer LOts Of ChOiCe (and LOts Of LaCe)

By Rebecca SchneideReit

FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn

he early 2010s’ reign of strapless gowns and “pickup” skirts is ending, and a plethora of new options are taking their place, says Wendy Gay of Always & Forever Bridal. “I’ve been in business over 20 years; this is probably the first time that I’ve seen so much choice,” she says. “You have strapless, sleeves, low backs, high backs… a little bit of everything.” Furthermore, Gay notes, brides aren’t hesitating to incorporate personalized finishing touches. “They can buy a strapless dress and add beaded cap sleeves and shoulder straps,” she says. “They’re able to buy little pieces, like broaches, feathers — things to make it their own.” That’s not to say no specific style has gained ground. “The vintage look is very strong,” Gay says. “The most popular is lace. This is the first time around

that I’ve seen the full lace dresses.” Throat-brushing lace collars, she adds, cause many brides to skip the standard necklace, perhaps favouring a bejewelled belt or veil. And shoes can increase visual interest: “A lot of girls are having their shoes dyed the same colour as their bridesmaids’ dresses.” While style varies, says Gay, length has stayed consistent. “Even at destination weddings, they still like to have that dress to the floor.” Many gowns, she notes, feature “fit-to-flare” skirts. “Fit-to-flare is almost like a cross between a mermaid and a trumpet dress. It hugs the body, and then you get fullness at the bottom.” One last tip, whatever your personal ‘look’, “the most important thing is to keep an open mind and try the different styles on,” says Gay. “That way, when you do find the dress, you’ll know you covered all your options.”

destination Weddings Gay urges brides embarking on destination weddings to choose their dress for feel, and not only appearance. “The biggest thing is the heat,” she says. “You should look for a chiffon or a lace, because those are lightweight.” Veils aren’t always popular at outdoor weddings, Gay says, adding that there’s nothing wrong with skipping one — “lots of girls go without veils” — and plenty of alternatives exist: “A beaded headband, flowers in the hair, feathers.”

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

EXPRESSIONS HELPS DEFINE Your Destination Wedding Style BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT

f you’re heading to a destination wedding this winter, you’re probably counting down the days. But will your

current summer wardrobe do justice to Caribbean bliss? To “pep up” your destination duds, visit Expressions, Weyburn

Co-op’s

ladies’

fashion

boutique. They stock summer wear from December onwards, so when it comes to cruises, tropical trips and destination weddings, they’re your source.

Michelle Chessall has spent “17 years as the manager of Expressions,” she cheerfully reports. She and her seasoned staff (one employee, Norma Sealy, has been at the boutique for 26 years) have a down-to-earth philosophy to ensure travellers fill their suitcases with the best choices: “We ask clients what their needs are first, and go from there,” says Chessall simply. If you’re the sundress type, Expressions carries plenty; if you’re a jeans-and-T

devotee, boutique mainstays like Carreli, French Dressing, and Liverpool jeans could be your ticket. Other store lines include Tan Jay, Alia, Bali, Tango Mango, Tribal and more – a collection to accommodate wide-ranging ages and personal styles. In fact, says Michelle, “People come all the way from Regina for the selection” – and that selection is about to increase, since “in spring 2014, Point Zero will be a new brand for the store.”

ABOVE Michelle Chessall (manager) showing new fashion arrivals

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Norma & Michelle welcome you to Expressions!; Tara Chuckry with cruise wear and fashion accessories; A great selection of arm candy at Expressions MISSING Myrna Kelly

Of course, something has to go beneath that sundress, or those jeans, to keep them picture-perfect. To that end, Expressions stocks the incomparably popular Spanx shapewear to help redefine your favourite frocks. The boutique’s Van Elle and Wonderbra brassieres can also assist your silhouette. For most of us, a destination wedding means as much time beach and poolside as possible. Expressions offers one and two piece swimsuits by brands like Nygard and TYR; the stock includes both designs intended for water activity, and for lounging on the sand or deck, notes Chessall. They also recently added swimsuits by Penbrooke, which “have a more flattering fit in the bust.” No need to throw an old towel over your new swimsuit: Expressions’ cover-ups can keep you in style even out of the water.

The finishing touches on your destination look should include “something warmer for the evenings,” Michelle suggests. “Sometimes evenings are cool, even in hot places.” Staff can also help you enhance your ensemble with Clarks shoes, a favourite at Expressions (new sandals are expected for February), or with one of the boutique’s purses or scarves. And if you want to sparkle, jewellery by Carina and Xotik is waiting. Expressions shoppers receive the usual perks associated with the Weyburn Coop: the “cash-back” incentive rewarding loyal customers, the “no hassle warranty” to provide security on purchases. And if you’re shopping from a distance, says Chessall, “We do mail-out. We post pictures to our Facebook page, and if people see something they like, we’ll ship it to them.” Furthermore, she says,

Expressions occasionally special-orders items to the store, so customers can receive exactly what they’re looking for. After your destination holiday, you can put your new articles away until summer. “With the quality and classic look of the clothing, you’ll get several years of wear,” notes Chessall. But that doesn’t mean you won’t visit Expressions again soon, say, for winter wear; when you do, they’ll be happy to have you. “The best part of my job is getting to know the customers,” says Chessall. “A lot of customers are regulars, and they become like friends.” Expressions Metro Centre 64 3rd Street, Weyburn 306.848.3684 expression@weyburncoop.com www.weyburncoop.com Expressions.2006

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

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Flowers

Casual & Classic

Create Your own unique DaY By Trina annand

f all the elements in a wedding, very few highlight a couple’s combined styles like the flowers chosen for the big day. The bouquet often sets the tone for the rest of the floral elements in the wedding, from church and table arrangements, to boutonnieres and corsages.

For floral guru Neville MacKay, owner of My Mother’s Bloomers, flowers are far more than an accent to an event. “Flowers are food for the soul. For centuries they have been used in every celebration, whether it is to mark an arrival, departure or anything in between. Our culture is obsessed with flowers; they have been used as inspiration for art, architecture, decoration, fashion, pretty much everything. They are also the most widely used symbol of love, passion, desire, faith and happiness in the world.” Trends come and go, but coming up for 2014 weddings, MacKay is seeing a resurgence of some old favourites. Since the 1900s, cascading bouquets have been a perennial choice; experiencing a lull in the 2000s, they are set to come back this year. “Trends are looking a lot less trendy. Bride’s bouquets are much more like what their mothers and grandmothers carried, more classic and timeless. Bouquet and stem holders are also returning to the forefront and they will define a whole new generation of florists, as they are more difficult to create,” notes MacKay. Baby’s Breath is also seeing a reinvention, not as a filler flower, but the star of a bouquet, creating delicate clouds of white blooms. In strict contrast to the highly structured and tightly packed traditional arrangements of the last two decades, casual, more relaxed bouquets that are

hand-tied are becoming more popular. Casual arrangements can be achieved through mixing colours and flowers to create a more “plucked from the garden” feel. Incorporating foliage and grass elements also creates an heirloom look; generating movement both physically and visually. Roses are always in style whether they are long stemmed or more relaxed garden roses. “Floral bouquets for weddings are designed as an accent to an outfit. Flowers should reflect a person’s tastes as well as the clothing they choose, you can’t mix an avant garde bouquet with a traditional dress,” remarks MacKay. When selecting flowers colour and theme, feeling and season come into play. Most important to this process is season, if a couple must have peonies for their big day, they can’t get married in the winter. Flexibility is fundamental during the whole process, if a specific date is important for a couple, selecting a seasonal flower isn’t the best approach. “It’s always important to have a Plan B. Beautiful flowers are beautiful flowers. There is no such thing as an ugly flower, just flowers that we are more drawn to,” says MacKay. Working with a professional ensures that wedding flowers are of the best quality and last longer. Florists also have a wide base of experience and can educate clients on what will and won’t work. A client may love the idea of carrying six dozen flowers, but it is physically impossible to carry. For the eco-conscious couple, there are always possibilities in the floral world, caring for the environment doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have the wedding you desire. MacKay now works with suppliers to acquire organic floral options; he has even grown things

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for clients. You can work with a florist to incorporate repurposed items or accessories, along with flowers or foliage you have from your own garden, which is of course dependent on the season. Organic doesn’t necessarily mean a shabby chic theme; organically grown roses are available all year around. Flowers have the ability to capture emotion and harken fond memories through scent or even by description, making them an essential part of any event. “Think about when you were a child and picked a bouquet of dandelions for your mom. How much joy and love you had holding that bunch of wild flowers? That is the magic of flowers and why they are so important to any event,” remarks MacKay. Whether you’re a casual outdoor bride or a traditional white gloved bride, the flowers you surround yourself with on your big day are as important as the dress or cake. By combining your unique styles in floral elements you can share who you are as a couple with family and friends, making a good event a great one.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

WEDDINGS

EXPERTAdvice Weddings at Home vs. Destination Weddings

Lorena Squires, CTM Manager CAA Travel Agency 28-110 Souris Ave. Weyburn, Sask. S4H 2Z8 Phone:Â 306.842.5176 Lorena.squires@caask.ca www.caask.ca

hy spend thousands of dollars planning an elaborate wedding at home, when you can celebrate your love in paradise with a lot less fuss at a fraction of the cost? Destination weddings continue to be a top choice for nuptials these days. Over the past years, it has become easier to choose a destination, resort and specific wedding packages to suit each unique bride and groom.

Transat Holidays, with their Distinction and Luxury Collection of resorts, have a wonderful array of choices for that perfect beach wedding celebration. All a great wedding takes is some planning. Firstly, decide on a budget for both the wedding arrangements and travel plans. Secondly, poll your family and friends to get a feel for their ability and desire to participate in your destination wedding. Thirdly, stop by to see your CAA Travel Agent at least eight-12 months in advance to start the search for the perfect wedding location.

Bride & Groom Future Travel Voucher: receive a $500 voucher to be used towards future travel.

When booking a destination wedding, take advantage of Transat Holidays Wedding Group Advantages:

Book Early, Get More!

No Deposit Weddings: we will book and hold space for the wedding party and guests for up to 90 days without a deposit. Group Price Promise: in the event a price goes lower than your group contract price, we will honour the lower price.

Cloud Nine: Inflight Advantages include: priority check-in at the airport and priority luggage tag, complimentary seat assignment, an extra 10-kilogram baggage allowance free of charge, two 200-millilitre of champagne on the departure flight, a reserved overhead compartment for your wedding gown, and an onboard announcement, if desired.

Book by April 30, 2014 to receive a number of savings and special concession with Transat Holidays and the CAA Travel Agency. Each of our CAA Travel Agents are Certified Travel Consultants â&#x20AC;&#x201D; well travelled and well informed. Let us and Transat Holidays help you to pull your wedding plans together for memories ever after. HOME

DESTINATION

AVERAGE COST

$25,000

$5,000

TIMING

Often limited due to seasonal trends

Any time of year

SETTING

Typically indoors

Exotic outdoor location

VENUE

Multiple (photos, ceremony, dinner)

One location

DURATION

One day celebration

Week long celebration

PLANNING

Stressful and time consuming

Coordinator manages all details

HONEYMOON

Additional planning and cost

Begins upon arrival

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EnhancE Your BEautY and EmpowEr Your Soul By Tonya LamberT Photos Images by gILLIes

fter retiring from a successful 25-year career in direct sales, Mary Kay Ash wanted to enrich women’s lives by providing an unparalleled business opportunity that allowed women to achieve their dreams while keeping their priorities in order. Lauren Peterson is living that dream, able to stay home by choice with her children and also run her own business.

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Lauren Peterson was a stay-at-home mom, expecting her second child, when she felt called to take on a new opportunity. A lifelong cosmetic and fashion fan, Lauren has also always been passionate about empowering women and breaking glass ceilings. Lauren did not have to look far to find the perfect opportunity. Lauren’s mother-in-law has been a Mary Kay® director for years. When Lauren saw just how much the

company empowered both the women it employed and those who purchased its products, and how it offered the ability for fast-paced advancement and the flexibility to live life on her own terms, she knew this was the career for her. In September 2012, when she was seven months pregnant, Lauren became a Mary Kay consultant, rising to the rank of director in less than a year. She now has her own unit, Pink Pizazz.

stands behind its product sold by Mary Kay® Independent Beauty Consultants with a 100 per cent guarantee. A selfproclaimed mascara fanatic, Lauren claims if she was stranded on an island and could have only one product with her, it would be the Ultimate Mascara in black. She is also a big fan of the new Skinvigorate Cleansing Brush—a product that helps remove an additional 85 per cent of makeup regular cleanser leaves behind. As a Mary Kay® director, Lauren does home parties and private consultations. She operates booths at trade shows and hosts monthly beauty events in Estevan, Regina and Weyburn, each of which centres on a theme, such as Mineral Madness, Hollywood Glam or Smokey Eye clinics. Dates and themes are posted on her website and Facebook page. Products may also be ordered from her website or catalogues.

ABOVE Lauren Peterson

Lauren loves helping women look their best because when a woman feels empowered on the outside it inspires selfconfidence internally. “So many women don’t know how great they really are. They come to us all vogue on the outside and vague on the inside,” said Mary Kay. Lauren loves to share with other women that pivotal moment when they realize that they themselves are special and deserve to have time spent on them, that

moment when they look in the mirror and see the beauty that is them on the inside reflected on the outside. Today, Mary Kay® product is sold in more than 35 global markets. The Mary Kay® product line includes more than 200 premium products in six categories: facial skin care, men’s skin care, colour cosmetics, body care, sun protection and fragrance. Mary Kay Cosmetics Ltd.

Since she started her Mary Kay® business just over a year ago, Lauren has earned two career cars, supplemented her family’s income, shared the opportunity with other women, travelled to events around Canada with her husband, Kurtis, met many amazing people from around the world, and has still been home to witness all of her daughters’ firsts. “The Mary Kay® opportunity has given me the chance to rock a diaper bag on one arm and a briefcase on the other,” says Lauren. “I’m so grateful.” Mary Kay Cosmetics Lauren Weis Peterson Independent Sales Director P.O. Box 405, Midale 306.458.2291 laurenwpeterson@gmail.com www.marykay.ca/laurenwpeterson LaurenWeisPeterson

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EXPERTAdvice Thinking Outside the Frame

prints can be mounted around a three quarter inch or one and a half inch frame. This will give the picture a stand out, wraparound look that everyone will notice.

David Wakefield Southern Printers 29 11st St. Weyburn 306.842.7955

lmost everyone loves to have great pictures, photos or prints decorating the walls of their homes. Here, I will give you some tips on having personal pictures printed to display for family and friends to view. Whether it’s wedding, holiday, or other photos you would like to have framed or mounted, there are options for you to choose from. At Southern Printers we can print them on photo paper so they can be mounted in a frame. While this option is typically the most common, I would like to suggest doing something a little different to display your most treasured pictures. A beautiful canvas wrapped print will last for many years and will show off more detail than a photo behind glass. Canvas

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Something to remember when you’re taking pictures to print and frame on canvas is that the focal point will need to be away from the edge of the picture so it will not be part of the wraparound portion of the canvas. If the focal point is close to the edge, a border can be added to the picture prior to printing it. Normally, we can suggest a colour for the border that will not contrast with the picture, but can also match the colour of the wall you will be mounting it on. Wedding, family, scenery, sports, pets, plus many other pictures can be printed and framed this way. Generally, we can have your finished product printed and mounted for you within two or three days. To get larger prints developed on photo paper and then framed will be more costly than having them printed on canvas and stretch-wrapped in most cases. Keep in mind, the quality of the photo or print we are given to work with may restrict the size of the canvas we can print to as low-resolution photos become pixelated and have a grainy look to them once enlarged. Digital cameras

and many cell phones are capable of taking great pictures, but many of them have low-resolution default settings that aren’t ideal for enlarging photos. For this reason, it’s important to adjust your camera settings to take the best picture possible in the highest resolution setting. Digital camera storage cards will allow you to take several hundred pictures and store them on one card in lower resolution settings, but higher resolution photos will require more storage space, so it may be necessary to purchase a larger storage card. Taking high-resolution photos will ensure you have the option to enlarge them in the future without losing quality. As the owner of Southern Printers, the most rewarding part of my business is seeing joy on customer’s faces and hearing them tell us how great their canvas mounted pictures look when they see them. To see the quality of our work, I invite you to stop in anytime and have a look at the many canvas wrapped pictures we have on display. Myself, or one of the staff, would love to help you bring your pictures to life. Sincerely, David Wakefield

YEAR ROUND Resolutions BY SARAH VERMETTE

Instead of making resolutions that are likely to set us up for failure from the get go, we can instead resolve to take care of ourselves year round.

t the dawn of each New Year, hordes of people resolve to lose weight, get out of debt and kick bad habits. A lack of planning and an unwillingness to make sacrifices may prevent us from seeing them through. In a society that promotes instant gratification, looking at a goal a year or more down the road can seem tedious. Instead of making resolutions that are likely to set us up for failure from the get go, we can instead resolve to take care of ourselves year round. For those used to primarily taking care of others, making personal needs a priority can feel selfish. On the contrary, being strong in mind, body and spirit reinforces our personal value, and allows us to take care of our priorities and those in our lives without feeling diminished or neglected.

Here are ten simple ways to nourish your body, mind and soul:

Practice the art of gratefulness Pick up a copy of The Magic by Rhonda Byrne and let her lead you through a simple 30-day exercise on gratefulness. Negativity is an easy trap to fall into and a hard one to get out of. Sometimes we need a gentle reminder that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in our power to change our perspective.

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Honour your body Instead of making a drastic and unrealistic diet change, simply ban three unhealthy foods from your diet. Allowing yourself to indulge a couple times a week on guilty-pleasure food will go a long way to help sustain long-term control on eating habits.

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Embrace silence In a world that is so frantic and loud, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to forget the peace that can be found in silence. Simply sitting in silence with morning coffee, without occupying the mind with reading, television or conversation, is a wonderful way to tune in to the heart.

Estevan/Weyburn

Treat yourself at least once a month Something as simple as a pedicure or a massage can still the mind and remind us that self-care is just as important as the rest of our many other obligations. Write this appointment in your schedule just as you would write in your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doctor appointment. Do not cancel.

Start or join a club with those you love This can be based on a common hobby or can simply be a coffee club. Setting a predetermined time once a week, bi-weekly or monthly will make getting together with your companions stress free as it eliminates the time consuming process of finding a mutually agreeable time.

Spring clean at the beginning of the year De-cluttering and getting rid of unnecessary belongings will leave more room in your house, give you a sense of organization and take a weight off the mind â&#x20AC;&#x201D; what a great way to start the year!

Rest without feeling guilty When tired, allow yourself to rest. If the desire is to sit on the couch and watch TV after work, do so without feeling guilty. The kitchen, mail and phone calls can be dealt with a little bit later.

Remember how to breathe fully A full breath engages the pelvis, abdomen and rib cage, and if we watch a baby breathe, we can clearly see this. By the time most of us are adults we have developed stilted breathing patterns. In emotional terms, the act of breathing in is about embracing life, whereas the act of breathing out is about letting go. In physical terms, the in breath scans the body for faults, whereas the out breath carries that information to the brain so that corrections can be made. To remind the body how to breathe fully, set aside two 10-minute blocks of time each day for three weeks to focus on taking full breaths.

9 10

Create a bedroom oasis Move everything not in use in the bedroom to a different location so that the space is clean and open. Remove electronics and if possible, refrain from keeping cell phones by the bedside and on during the night. Studies have shown that cell phones consistently emit electromagnetic energy, which can cause a myriad of side effects, including poor sleeping patterns. Set healthy boundaries Many people strive on caring for others. However, the inability to set boundaries can put a person in the position of having their goodwill taken advantage of, or being taken for granted. Giving ourselves permission to say no once in awhile allows ourselves, and others, to have mutual respect for our time.

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EXPERTAdvice Financial Resolutions • Financial Fitness: We have all made the resolution to improve our physical fitness. Here is a practical tactic to improve our financial fitness. Strive to establish a routine of tracking and reviewing monthly expenditures. Knowing exactly what is being spent, and where, is vital to finding opportunities for cutbacks. Constructing and adhering to a monthly budget enables us to discover savings opportunities to enhance financial fitness. • Learn Something New: The typical resolution is to learn a new language, learn to play an instrument, take culinary lessons, etc. Why not commit to learning how to accomplish financial goals? The predominant obstacle people encounter in achieving financial goals is a lack of clarity as to what exactly is required to reach that goal. Trained financial experts work with people to give them a clear picture of their goals and how to put tailored strategies in place to realize them.

Tony Gill Wealth Management Advisor Weyburn Credit Union Box 1117 221 Coteau Ave Weyburn 306.842.6641 www.weyburncu.ca

here is something rousing about bringing in the new year that gives us a natural stimulant of ambition. The thrill of starting the year with a clean slate inspires us to endeavor to better ourselves. This can apply to all aspects of life, including financial situations. This year, let’s take some popular new year’s resolutions and emulate them in the context of “Financial Resolutions.”

• Get Organized: Just as excessive clutter can wreak havoc on a household, a cluster of unexplained and unsuitable financial products can be detrimental to the health of an investment portfolio. There are a multitude of investment options available, but not every product is appropriate for every investor. Qualified experts work with clients to ensure portfolios have an optimal product mix and are aligned with individual goals. • Reduce Debt: The notion is straightforward, but the implementation can be complex. Here are some traditional strategies — pay down the

ABOVE L-R Marj Wanner, Darla Brenholen, Kari Nikolejsin, Sean Purdue, Tony Gill and Sara Lawrence

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most expensive debt first (i.e. credit cards). Ensure that credit card payments consistently exceed the minimum payment required. Where appropriate, pay off loans with a low outstanding balance to free up some cash flow. It may also be wise to consolidate debt into a lower interest rate solution. • Better Work/Life Balance: For many, this is a big struggle. Time is a precious resource; we cannot borrow, bargain for, or fabricate additional time. Significant education, training, and ongoing study are essential to effectively navigate a financial roadmap. Work together with a financial advisor to build a comprehensive financial plan to create a foundation for future financial successes. When qualified professionals manage financial portfolios, people find themselves with more time to enjoy life. The key takeaway is that there are many steps that can be taken to improve finances. Weyburn Credit Union employs several specialized experts across all areas of financial planning, enabling clients to obtain sophisticated advice from local professionals. Meet with one of our financial advisors to transform your financial resolution into a reality this year, and for years to come.

SKINNY BODY CARE TORI STAFFORD PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

f you feel like your chances of finding a solution to your weight loss struggles are about one in million, you’re certainly not alone. Linda Holden knows all too well the difficulties of finding a successful weight-loss plan. Having tried many well-known programs, she was starting to feel almost hopeless in her battle with her weight. “It was just always so disappointing to work so hard, and try so hard, and then not see the results I was looking for,” says Holden. She was also getting sick of trying to track her diet, writing everything down, and having to find time for weigh-in

meetings — all while raising three young children and working full-time. Then she discovered something, but it wasn’t a drug or a stimulant, like so many pills that promise weight-loss results are. What Holden discovered was an all-natural, plant-derived pill. What she discovered was Skinny Fiber. Not far away, Lucinda Milford had made the same discovery. Like Holden, Milford had tried many diet regimes in the past with little success, so naturally, she was skeptical when she heard about Skinny

Fiber and the Skinny Body Care 90-Day Challenge. “I have always been a skeptic,” she says. “I have tried tons of different diet plans in the past, and I’ve never gotten any results.” For both women, what happened when they started taking Skinny Fiber was a shock — a very, very welcome shock. “I have had instant results on Skinny Fiber,” Milford says. “And I feel so good, too.” Milford joined forces with Krystle Colbow in September of 2013 to become

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distributors of Skinny Fiber and within a short amount of time the team grew to include Holden, Angel Boxell and Gaylene Wyatt. All five women, who live within the Estevan-Weyburn area, swear by Skinny Fiber. Together, this group helps men and women just like themselves find a solution to their weight-loss issues. For Colbow, like so many Skinny Fiber users, it’s far more than just the pounds and inches she’s losing that make the product so successful. “I used to be the girl who would roll out of bed, throw on sweatpants and put my hair in a ponytail,” says Colbow, who is also happy to see her skin clearing up since she started on Skinny Fiber. “I honestly don’t think of doing that anymore. I have a ‘glow’ on now, as my friends say, and I just feel good about life and have tons of energy.” Finding increased stamina is common among Skinny Fiber users, and something Angel Boxell says she is happy to be experiencing, too. “I would say I’m more awake, and alert,” Boxell says. “All day, I can run around and play with my children— and I’m not looking for my pillow by noon!” And that’s precisely something the mother of four finds herself doing often, something which she says is much easier to do since she’s

BELOW L–R Lucinda Milford, Linda Holden, Angel Boxell, Krystle Colbow, Gaylene Wyatt

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started on Skinny Fiber again since having her youngest son. In total, Boxell says she has lost about 25 lbs. For Wyatt, Milford’s mother, the ‘good side effects’ are life-changing. She no longer has the pain she used to experience when getting out of bed in the morning, her hot flashes are minimizing, and she’s also noticed she’s no longer losing as much hair when she brushes. That, along with the energy increase and the four inches she lost in her first two weeks on Skinny Fiber, is all the proof she needs that she’s found a product that works. “It’s nice that some of my clothes aren’t so tight, and I don’t feel as bloated any more,” says Wyatt. So what exactly is this magic pill called Skinny Fiber, and how does it work? According to the Skinny Body Care company, the first powerful ingredient is nutrient-rich enzymes, which many people do not get enough of in their regular diet to properly digest the food they eat. Introducing these enzymes helps to rid the body of toxins and extra fats, while strengthening the immune system. Skinny Fiber also contains the natural dietary fiber glucomanna. Skinny Body Care says this fiber, which is naturally soluble, is believed to expand slightly in the stomach to help a person feel fuller with less food, and it also acts as an appetite suppressant. Additionally, Skinny Fiber contains carallumaa, a plant extract found in India, which is believed to help support weight-loss, and chá de burge, a plant-derived product sometimes referred to as ‘the secret of Brazil,’ which is used as an appetite suppressant and may also help to support a healthy metabolism. For all five women, the proof these ingredients help in achieving an ideal body weight is easy to see — they only have to look in the mirror. To find out if this product can work for you, contact any of these five women, who are happy to introduce Skinny Fiber and the Skinny Body Care 90-Day Plan.

Lucinda Milford 306.421.8290 lucindamilford@hotmail.com dbr3milford.skinnybodycare.com

Krystle Colbow 306.461.9692 mommyk4@hotmail.ca mommyk4.sbc90.com

Gaylene Wyatt 306.421.3189 gaylenewyatt@hotmail.com 4hotbabes.skinnybodycare.com

Linda Holden 306.461.6494 lindarholden@hotmail.com lindrh.sbc90.com

Angel Boxell 306.471.0738 angelmarie444@live.com angelb444.sbc90daychallenge.com

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LASER HAIR REMOVAL AND SKIN REJUVENATION

new year brings many new things. Are you going to be a new bride? Are you jetting off

on a trip? Are your resolutions to start a workout or diet? If any or all of the above applies to you, then perhaps it’s also time to consider a new procedure!

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Sleek Appearance offers laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation services. Laser hair removal permanently reduces the amount of hair quite noticeably so that a person rarely has to shave or come back for maintenance. The feedback that owner JoAnne Howard receives from repeat clients is that they wish they started

treatments years ago. Just think…no more waxing, shaving or plucking. Many people approach JoAnne at tradeshows and indicate that they don’t “need” her services, as they don’t have facial hair. However, laser hair removal is effective for all hair with brown pigment

on all areas of the body. It helps to eliminate ingrown hair from shaving and permanently reduces the amount of hair. What’s not to love? JoAnne very openly confides how she became involved with laser hair removal. “I had facial hair,” says JoAnne. “Yes, I did. I would spend every night in front of the mirror plucking out my chin hairs…every night. And I would wax my upper lip when necessary.” This process did not go unnoticed by her husband. For Christmas one year, he gave her a gift certificate for laser hair removal. This was glorious news to her. However, upon further investigation, JoAnne discovered that she would have to travel two and a half hours into Regina for the services. This simply did not work for a full-time working mom with a hectic schedule. At that point, the wheels were in motion for the idea of Sleek Appearance Laser Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation. “I wanted to provide a service for other people with unwanted hair, and provide this service to them locally so they didn’t have to drive into the city,” she explains. So, in April of 2010, Sleek Appearance treated its first client, operating out of the communities of Estevan, Oxbow and Carlyle. In the fall of 2011, Sleek Appearance expanded its services to include the community of Carnduff and into the community of Moosomin in the fall of 2012. Currently, further expansions are in the works. The other service offered by Sleek Appearance is Laser Skin Rejuvenation. This is a non-invasive procedure offering the advantage of improving skin tone and surface imperfections associated with aging and photo-damage such as brown spots, facial veins and fine lines. The results can be quite remarkable. Due to the number of communities that Sleek Appearance services, the days of the week available in each location are limited, but JoAnne offers evening appointments to accommodate busy schedules. For some, like JoAnne, Laser Hair Removal was a necessity, and for others it is a luxury, but for all, it is amazing! Through Sleek Appearance, JoAnne offers personal and professional service, as well as a reducing price line to make laser hair removal treatments affordable. Check out Sleek Appearance’s website for prices, as well as what you need to do to get prepared for laser treatments. Don’t delay; contact JoAnne today to book your consultation and treatment with Sleek Appearance.

Sleek Appearance Laser Hair Removal & Skin Rejuvenation 306.485.7189 | contact@sleekappearance.com www.sleekappearance.com

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How to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions with Ease BY MEGAN LUST

Sharing a dinner table, let alone a family feast, with someone who has special dietary requirements can be a challenge. It can be downright nerve-wracking. Put those fears behind you and embrace your next family dinner with an arsenal of tips and recipes for a happy and festive feast for all. Be Aware of CrossContamination

If you’re serving a guest with celiac disease or a serious gluten intolerance, crosscontamination can be a very real threat. Kindly educate the guests on the importance of not double-dipping or using the same utensils for spreading, dipping, scooping which have touched something with gluten or other allergens.

Know What You’re Serving

If you’re making Auntie Greta’s famous pumpkin pie, make sure you know what ingredients are in it for all guests invited. Some of your dinner guests may have dairy, egg, gluten or other allergies that you’re not aware of. If you’ve purchased a food item, it might help to keep the ingredients list handy for any who may need to check it (though you might not be able to pass off a storebought pumpkin pie as your own homemade this way!).

Be Inclusive

Nobody likes to be the odd person out at the dinner table. Nor does a person enjoy feeling awkward for having special dietary requirements. Providing a few special glutenfree and plant-based dishes for everyone to enjoy, especially those who might not be able to partake in anything else, is a wonderful way to share your hospitality.

planning you may find that with a few substitutions to your regular recipes they can easily become gluten-free and/or vegan and still taste amazing. Why not share the load and ask other family members or guests to each prepare a single dish to bring to share? Of course, you can choose to create an entire meal that is completely gluten-free and plant-based! Traditional autumn and winter family feasts generally include things like turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy with stuffing. There’s no need to try and replace the turkey with a faux meat substitute that’s not gluten-free when you can serve up something hearty and satisfying, and equally as festive, as Wild Rice & Pear Stuffed Acorn Squash. Enjoy the following recipe and over a dozen more gluten-free and plant-based recipes, appetizers, soups, side dishes, gravy, desserts, and much more in my complementary Family Feasts Cookbook available for download at www.TheGlutenFreeVegan.com.

Megan Lust is a freelance writer and foodie, with a focus on gluten-free and vegan recipes. Visit her blog at theglutenfreevegan.com or her FB page for more healthy eating ideas and recipes. megan@theglutenfreevegan.com

Make It Fun!

It might seem like a lot of extra work to prepare an entirely separate menu of glutenfree vegan items but with a bit of advance

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Wild Rice & Pear Stuffed Acorn Squash A hearty and flavourful vegan and gluten-free main course so filling you won’t miss the turkey. Serves six to eight people. INGREDIENTS

P R E PA R AT I O N

4 acorn squashes 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, sprinkled 1 cup brown and wild rice mix ¼ cup wild rice ½ cup red lentils 2 ¼ cups vegetable broth 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 rib celery, chopped ½ large white onion, chopped finely 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 large, firm Bartlett pear, unpeeled, chopped finely ¼ cup dried cherries, chopped ½ cup hazelnuts (or pecans), chopped 2 - 3 sprigs of fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme) Salt and pepper, to taste

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. 2. Cut acorn squashes in half width wise and scoop out and discard the seeds and stringy bits. Drizzle the first amount of olive oil over the flesh side of the squash halves. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place squash flesh side down on the baking sheet and cover tightly with foil. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce heat to 350°F. 3. Meanwhile prepare the stuffing mixture by first rinsing the rice and lentils using a sieve to remove any extra starch and any foreign materials. In a large saucepan heat vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat and add the rice and red lentils. Let boil, uncovered, until the liquid is just barely below the rice, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer until all liquid is absorbed. This should take about 20 to 25 minutes in total. 4. While the rice is boiling, heat the second amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute onions, garlic and celery until they begin to soften ¬ about 6 to 8 minutes. Add in pear, dried cherries and hazelnuts. Sauté an additional 3 minutes. Do not let the pear get too soft. Add thyme, salt and pepper. 5. Add the cooked rice and lentil mixture to the skillet. Toss to combine all the flavors. 6. Stuff the cooked squash halves evenly with the mixture. Place in a large baking dish, cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Serve hot with your favourite side dishes.

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Sharon

“My life has completely changed” I developed a weight problem in my preteens. I was a size 13 in grade eight and a size 18 by the time I graduated. By the time I got married, I could not even fit into a size 24 wedding dress. My weight caused a huge strain on my relationships with my family as they were all thin. They never said anything negative to me but I was constantly in inner turmoil. I tried everything to lose weight. I joined a gym, I restricted my calories, I tried diet pills and sometimes I literally starved myself. I was so upset with myself; I didn’t want to get out of bed every morning. When I confided in a friend about my struggles, she mentioned gastric sleeve surgery. I researched the company and the surgery for months and I knew the gastric sleeve was the light at the end of my tunnel. My surgery was an amazing experience. Now, my life is completely changed. Once I lost some weight, I became less and less depressed. I could see I had other issues in my life that I did not have the strength or confidence to deal with when I was obese. I made a lot of changes in my life — sold my house, moved to a different town, switched careers and built better relationships with my family. I appreciate the little changes just as much: being proud of myself, having my picture taken, being more social, shopping in non-plus size clothing stores, sitting in chairs not worrying they may break and, of course, the overall confidence I gained. Now, I work for WLF Medical. I love seeing all the patients go through the transformation and being part of such a great company that changes lives every day.

Shar on b

efor e

Ashley “This is a whole new beginning for me.” My decision to undergo surgery came during the summer, when I was feeling really down about myself because I couldn’t find anything to wear to a function with my husband. I shopped and shopped, but it was hopeless. I had been looking at family photos earlier that same day and realized that there were no pictures of me with my kids, because I dreaded being photographed. Suddenly, all of these emotions just hit me. I realized I had to make a change. I had already wasted so much time and money exhausting other options, and began considering surgery. As a nurse, I wanted to make sure that I was getting appropriate care from a professional, and Dr. Pompa was the only one I could find to my satisfaction. When I arrived at the hospital I was delighted to find that it was a superior facility with up-to-date equipment. I knew what to look for, and was confident that they had the skills and expertise to perform the operation. Since my surgery, my confidence has soared. I no longer dread going swimming with my kids and am excited to be in family photos. I can be more involved with my kids and love to shop now — maybe a little too much! It’s amazing what you can do when you feel good about yourself. I have experienced so many moments of firsts, of things that I would not or could not do before. This is a whole new beginning for me.

ASHLEY MURDOCH Lost 80 lbs. from highest weight. 67 lbs. from prep to now. Ashley

before

Makeup: Tracy Truong, Spa Therapist / CHEL salonspa Hair: Melissa Weir, Sr. Designer Stylist / CHEL salonspa Photography: Kimball V / CHELphoto

Traci “WLF Gave me hope.” There’s been obesity in my family for a long time. My mother and grandmother both suffered from health issues that stemmed from obesity, and passed away before the age of 72. I was already experiencing some of the same health issues they did. My mom warned me that my 50s might not be so bad, but that it would all be downhill after 60. I realized that I was looking at 10 years or less of reasonable health. I tried to lose weight, but could never get beyond 20 to 25 pounds, no matter what I tried. I knew I needed to regain my health before I followed in her footsteps. WLF gave me hope. They were incredibly supportive. They take you through every step of the process, and are a support for your family when they can’t be there with you. Dr. Pompa is excellent and, as someone who works in a health care setting, I appreciated that the facility was clean and well-staffed by people who really looked after you. I am very hopeful and optimistic about things now. I love the fact that I can look forward to better health for a longer period of time. I hope that I can be an inspiration to others, because it’s really a life-changing experience. If telling my story can help even one person, then putting my story out there is worth it. This is a treatment that will truly help with long-term success to overcome obesity and regain health.

TRACI AARON Lost 80 pounds!

Makeup: Tracy Truong, Spa Therapist / CHEL salonspa Hair: Marya Deptuch, Designer Stylist / CHEL salonspa Photography: Kimball V / CHELphoto

Traci

befo

Leanne “I’ve broken free of my cocoon.” I felt like my weight was standing in the way of my career and preventing me from getting the jobs that I wanted. I felt like my life had stalled, and that the reason I wasn’t able to move forward was my weight. I had my act together, but I didn’t seem to have that presentably. My weight hindered me from being the person I wanted to be, and made me feel that I couldn’t achieve my goals. I was very excited when I heard about WLF. The facilitator walked me through everything, and I felt incredibly secure when I saw the amazing facility. There was always a contact that you could call or text, day or night, who would check in with you all the time. I was very thankful for that. I have so much more energy and confidence now. I was always known for being a go-getter, but when I was overweight it was like I was covered in a cocoon that I couldn’t break out of. The person who I was inside just couldn’t flourish. I’m back to my feisty self now. I’ve broken free of my cocoon, and am more aware of who I really am. Surgery is not a fix-all for every hang-up you have, but it gives you the tool of control. It helps you better manage other issues in life, because you are not always obsessing over your weight and feeling down about yourself. It has let me fly again.

LEANNE BERGLUND Lost 80 pounds!

Makeup: Tracy Truong, Spa Therapist / CHEL salonspa Hair: Melissa Weir, Sr. Designer Stylist / CHEL salonspa Photography: Kimball V / CHELphoto

Leanne

before

Maria

“I have been given the gift of freedom.” In 2003 I was diagnosed with diabetes. Initially, I managed to maintain good blood sugars through exercise and diet, but, as the disease progressed, my numbers started to climb and didn’t go back down. I was very determined. Working with my physician, trainers and nutritionists I tried endless diets and exercise programs, but nothing changed. I was starting to feel numbness in my feet. When a good friend who had just been diagnosed with diabetes had to have part of her feet amputated, I knew it was time to try something different. I began researching different types of surgeries and comparing companies. WLF really stood out to me. They were extremely professional, and offered extensive research material for perspective patients. I knew I had made the right choice after I still hadn’t lost any weight following my pre-op diet. My body wasn’t working the way it was supposed to be, and needed help. The hospital was amazing. There were two doctors on staff for six patients. These are doctors that look after you and spend time getting to know you. The facilitator was also there several times a day to ensure you were doing okay. It was fantastic. Within a month of surgery, my diabetes was gone. Now, I have more energy, more self-confidence, and am reminded everyday of the little things I was missing out on. I bought skates for the first time, have joined a curling team, and can wear whatever I want to. I have been given the gift of freedom. Mari

a be

MARIA BESENSKI

fore

Lost 81 pounds!

Makeup: Tracy Truong, Spa Therapist / CHEL salonspa Hair: Marya Deptuch, Designer Stylist / CHEL salonspa Photography: Kimball V / CHELphoto

EXPERTAdvice The Overweight Pet

Karla Hadlow, RVT Prairie Animal Health Centres 108 Breeze Street, Estevan 306.634.7123 www.prairieanimalhealthcentre.com 416 7 Street West, Weyburn 306.842.7677 www.prairieanimalhealthweyburn.com 202 2nd Street East, Carnduff 306. 482.5252

t is estimated in Canada that at least 35 per cent of pets seen in veterinary clinics range from slightly overweight to morbidly obese. Being overweight can cause strain on joints, which makes a pet more susceptible to arthritis and increases the risk of physical injury. It can also affect other vital organs, such as the liver, lung and heart. Obesity can make pets more prone to pancreatitis and diabetes, and also shortens their life expectancy. Typically when a pet comes in to the clinic, we measure their body condition score by taking a current weight and then looking at the shape of their body. With a pet that

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is in ideal condition, we should be able to easily feel the ribs with light pressure and see an “hourglass“ figure. This only allows us to measure to the point of being overweight. Hill’s Pet Nutrition has come up with an additional tool that helps to assess the ideal weight of your pet. It calculates the body fat percentage based on several measurements; specifically, six for dogs and four for cats. The measurements help to estimate the ideal body weight, based on bone structure. We can measure from 15 to 75 per cent body fat. Using body condition scoring and body fat index calculations help us to estimate your pet’s ideal weight. This tool is used in combination with exercise and weight loss diets to achieve the best weight for your pet. However, with any weight loss program, it does involve weigh-ins every two to four weeks to make sure the pets are losing weight and to make adjustments to the feeding portions if needed. Feeding two to three meals a day is the best way to encourage weight loss. The act of eating burns calories and smaller meals help pets feel full throughout the day.

Keeping a food and exercise journal for your pet at home is an excellent way to keep your family involved with the weight loss plan and helps to keep track of your pets’ daily routine. This can also help us to make adjustments if the pet is not losing weight. If your pet likes to get treats, allow a small quantity of allowed food as treats. This helps to minimize added calories from other sources. There are many other toys and tools that can help keep your pet in shape. For cats, using interactive toys are the best, such as laser lights and slim cat balls. You can even create a hide-and-seek game for your pet with food or treats hidden in containers with various sizes and numbers of holes. For dogs, there are food mazes, treat cubes and other types of bowls to help slow down eating. This is very important for larger dogs to help reduce the chance of bloat and to help them feel fuller. It is crucial to not over exert your pet with exercise during the initial weight loss period. Multiple, short durations of activity throughout the day is best to build up tolerance. Other ways are to try low-impact exercise like swimming. If your dog will tolerate it, try them on a treadmill.

The Art of Hosting BY SARAH VERMETTE

hile cleaning out my grandparents’ basement recently, my family and I found a spool of 8mm film from several decades ago. We watched in delight, as children and adults danced around a cramped house in flared skirts and suits. It all seemed so very fancy and out of reach. Indeed, the way people congregate and the sense of community has changed drastically in the last few decades as we have become prone to embracing our casual comfort zones. By re-introducing some simple habits we can rediscover the art of hosting and have a greater

sense of pride in welcoming people into our homes.

Greeting guests Take jackets at the door. If you have a small number of guests, hang their coats in the closet instead of leaving it to them to find a place. Don’t assume they’ll be comfortable opening your closet to find a hanger. If you have a lot of guests, store coats on a bed. It can be fun for guests to search for their coat at the end of the night on a bed piled high with them.

Thank your guests for coming and encourage them to make themselves at home. Lead them to the kitchen, living room or wherever you have decided to congregate.

Attention to attire It can be nice to give people the opportunity to get out of their blue jeans and play dress-up. It doesn’t have to be the holiday season, when they are more common, for a fancy dress party. Hosting a fancy dress Valentine’s Day party can be fun for couples and singles — it can

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take the pressure off people who have trouble coming up with romantic ideas for their partners and give single friends a chance to get out of the house. Or, throw a fancy dress party just for the sake of throwing one!

Cocktails and canapés In Saskatchewan, beer is popular. But, BYOB can be done on whim and often. For something a little more special, print out some cocktail recipes and set up a section of your kitchen counter as the bar. While it’s only necessary to choose a handful of drinks, be sure to have a healthy variety, as well as something unexpected that people aren’t likely to have tried. Mixing drinks is fun for everyone, so take turns playing bartender. Make the drink for the first person who arrives, they can make the drink for the next guest, and so on. Keep in mind that most guests don’t like to come empty handed, so make a list of what you need for the bar and ask each guest to pick up one item.

—TAKE TURNS—

playing bartender

Just as women benefit from the company of other women, so do men benefit from the company of other men, however, they are less likely to have that on a regular basis. Encourage the branching off of your male guests by buying a box of cigars and allowing a room or garage to act as the smoke room. Setting up a snack table can serve a number of functions. People like to eat so they will naturally gravitate to the food, and this can serve as a way for guests to introduce themselves to each other in a way that’s more comfortable than simply walking across a room to someone new. No one likes to be hungry and setting out food will show guests that you have taken the time to care for them and make sure they are comfortable.

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—SEAT PEOPLE—

in creative & thoughtful ways

Polished place settings For dinner parties, set everyone up with a cocktail as they arrive. Dress up your place settings with placemats, cloth napkins and name cards. If you don’t have dishware dedicated for special events, you can dress up your everyday dishes by using a large colourful plate as the base for each dish. Seat people in creative and thoughtful ways. Instead of seating couples beside each other who are with each other often, set each person beside someone with whom they have something in common or use your instinct as to who

would hit it off. If you have a shy guest, seat them beside someone outgoing who has the gift of gab and will make them feel comfortable.

Enticing entertainment Planned activities can break the ice and carry a party long into the night. It can become tiresome or tedious to depend purely on conversation for entertainment. Think outside of the box — a room full of people learning the fox trot and other dance steps is sure to be filled with laughter and smiles. Fancy dress parties will set the tone for dancing. If you have creative guests or children in attendance,

setting up a craft table can be fun and will allow everyone to leave with something.

Relax and have fun When it comes to hosting, no one has ever been frowned upon for going the extra mile. Guests will appreciate that you took the time to make the evening special. After all, when people attend a party or gathering they are giving the gift of their time, so giving your time to make it special is a great way to say thank you. Wishing everyone happy hosting in the New Year!

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Cranberry Mojitos

IngredIents • • • • • • • •

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8 oz. fresh cranberries 1 C sugar 1 C water 20 mint leaves 2 tbsp lime juice Ice 4 oz. rum 4–6 oz. soda water

1. Place cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Then lower the heat a bit to medium-low and continue to cook for about 10 minutes, before your berries start bursting. Remove from heat. 2. Once the berry mixture has cooled, you can strain them. If you prefer, you can keep the mixture in the fridge for a couple hours or overnight before straining. 3. Put about 10 leaves of mint and a tbsp of lime juice in each glass. With the back of a wooden spoon or a muddler mash the mint up. 4. Put ice in each glass and pour 2 oz. of the cranberry syrup and 2 oz. rum into each glass. 5. Top off each glass with soda water. And sprinkle some fresh cranberries in for garnish.

Hot Spiced Wine

IngredIents • • • • • • • • •

1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 10 whole cloves 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3 peppercorns, whole 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (to taste) 1 orange, juiced 1 bottle red wine Cinnamon sticks (optional)

1. Combine all ingredients except wine in a pan and boil for five minutes. 2. Reduce heat, add wine. Heat to the point where it is just before boiling. (Try to avoid boiling; the alcohol will begin to evaporate.) 3. Strain into cups and serve hot. 4. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, if desired. Serves four.

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AMAZING AND NEW: Back to Serve You BY TONYA LAMBERT PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

n June 18, 2012, Lorette Zohner was awakened by a phone call in the early morning hours. It was devastating news, the Dairy Queen restaurant that she owned with her sisters, Louise and Denise Vandenhurk, was on fire. She rushed to the scene, only to discover that firefighters were not allowing anyone to enter the building; the blaze was simply too hot. By the time the fire had been put out, only the shell of the building remained.

Everything inside, including all the equipment, furnishings and supplies, had been destroyed either by the flames, the smoke or the water. The sisters were in shock. It had only been a few years since the restaurant had undergone extensive renovations in 2008 to transform the Dairy Queen into the new Grill ‘n’ Chill format, with its larger menu and table service. These renovations had

Owners, Loui se Vandenh Lorette Zohn urk, er, Denise V andenhurk

been a group undertaking with the women’s husbands. Since completion, the restaurant had undergone one more expansion – the addition of an Orange Julius with its large selection of smoothies and juliuses. The thought of rebuilding everything was overwhelming; the process complicated and involved. First, the cause of the fire needed to be determined. A forensic inspector came out from Calgary to

L-R Catherine Calma, Eden Bumanglag, Annalyn Lagario, Lyn Fransisco, Maria Jasmin Imperial, Evan Concepcion, Aryn Belando, Ruby Anne Gino

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investigate. He determined that the fire was due to a faulty wiring in the ceiling above the ice machine. Now, it was time to find a contractor. Fortunately, Century West had just completed building another Dairy Queen and was able to take the job. There was also the issue of their employees, which the sisters needed to handle. In 2007, Dairy Queen was introduced to the opportunities to hire foreign workers from the Philippines due to a lack of local applicants. These workers are hired under strict provincial and federal guidelines which limit their employment to a specific establishment. Denise, an immigration consultant and the sister in charge of human resources, was able to help the transfer of their employees to other positions. The sisters felt it was their responsibility to help their employees achieve their goals.

Finally, in January, work began on the building. It soon became clear that there was much more to do than originally realized. The plumbing under the floors had to be redone because the pipes had frozen during the winter. Other challenges arose. Stainless steel tables arrived damaged and had to be returned. There were issues in connecting all the new technology. Then, there was another tiny fire when a strip of heat trace tape shorted out near one of the new freezers. Luckily, it was caught quickly and extinguished. After this series of delays, a new and improved Grill â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chill Dairy Queen and Orange Julius re-opened for business on July 24. The sisters were a bit concerned about how well business would be after being closed for more than a year. They need not have worried, though. Business was so brisk on opening day that the

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thirteen staff members were run off their feet. “It’s exciting to see how people welcomed us back again,” said Louise. “It was very overwhelming for us to see everybody. They really missed us.” Business has been steady since then, and several former employees have returned to work there. Notes one returning customer, “The staff here are all very professional and polite. They never fail to offer a nice smile and friendly greeting. The service and food are excellent. It is a pleasure to come here.” In 1953, Estevan was the home of Canada’s first Dairy Queen. The sisters took over the business in September 2003 with the support of their families. “It was a big undertaking,” said Louise. “The experience was not unlike that of a first-time parent: you love your child but you quickly realize that there is a lot more responsibility than originally anticipated.” Over the years, the sisters have each found their niche in the business. Louise handles the books and helps in the store while Denise takes care of hiring. Lorette is the floor manager and takes care of the day-to-day running of the business. Their husbands help out whenever needed and many of their children have worked in the Dairy Queen over the years. They were also fortunate to have their mother, “the Novelty Queen,” help them by making novelties for three years. Owning the business has been a labour of love for the sisters, who strive to ensure that quality food is served, great service is provided and the establishment is kept clean. They are very grateful to their families, employees and the local community for all their support over the past decade and particularly during this difficult past year. They encourage everyone to come down and check out the amazing, new Blizzard Cupcakes and favourite Fan Food. Dairy Queen 901 -13th Ave. Estevan 306.634.3209

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ESTEVAN WEYBURN ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR Jan/Feb 2014

JANUARY/FEBRUARY January 1 Weyburn Centennial New Years Eve Celebrations

February 18 Ballet Jörgen - Romeo & Juliet Estevan Comprehensive High School

January 30 Estevan Prairie Debut - Musica Intima St. Paul’s United Church

February 23 Estevan Hedley Wild Live! Affinity Place

February 6 Estevan Elmer Iseler Singers St. Paul’s United Church

For Weyburn and Estevan hockey team home games schedule see: www.weyburnredwings.ca www.estevanbruins.com

February 10 Weyburn Concert Series Jeffrey Straker Cugnet Centre

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COVER FEATURE

BRENDON

LABATTE

HOMETOWN BOY LIVES GREY CUP DREAM BY APOLLINE LUCYK PHOTOS COURTESY OF SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS

eyburn’s own Brendon LaBatte never would have guessed he’d become a professional football player, let alone an important offensive lineman for his province’s team the year they won the 2013 Grey Cup on home turf. “I can honestly say that it was never something that I really thought about. I knew what it was, and I knew the CFL, but we were never a football family growing up. It wasn’t really until I went to university that I started to think that I could someday be a professional football player,” says LaBatte. Interestingly enough, LaBatte had never played football until high school. Instead, he was heavily into baseball and hockey in his early years. “We used to practice baseball in the middle of winter and we’d be at the batting gates all day during the summers,” he remembers. “It was great to have those opportunities available because in a lot of places, that’s not the case.” When LaBatte was 15, he and his father began doing circle track racing together in Estevan. “We build our own cars. It’s kind of a family thing that we do now,” says LaBatte’s father, Dale. The LaBattes’ home track is Estevan, but they also travel often for races. “We go down to the States and race. We’ve made quite a few miles down south, racing. We’ve gone to Iowa and Kansas, Nebraska and North Dakota.” As a kid, LaBatte had all sorts of ideas about what he wanted to do when he grew up. “I was going to be a race car driver and a hockey player in the off-season. I would be out doing a little

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ABOVE Fiance, Amanda and daughter, Asha Rose

joking, but that’s how new (Brendon) was, that he hadn’t even had a chance to really get in there and learn it.”

bit of everything,” he reflects. However, once he got into his high school years, he started to think about going to SIAST to take a machining course. “That’s the path I was heading down until in February of 2004, when I got the call from the Regina Rams to go play there and go to university. So I went there, and I started in on the Pre-Police program they’ve got at the U of R.” After only four years of studying and playing with the Rams, LaBatte decided to enter the draft, where he was picked up by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers; he remained there for four years before returning to Saskatchewan to play for the Roughriders. “Even when he went to university, I’m not so sure he thought he

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would do it on a pro level,” comments LaBatte’s mother, Laurie. “He red-shirted his first year in university and didn’t play either, so he really only played two or three years before he entered the draft, and he went in the first round.” Once LaBatte was signed with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, though, he got a lucky break and was able to play every game. “The first exhibition game after he got drafted, he played,” recollects Laurie. “Their left guard got hurt and they slid him in, and he played ever since.” She adds that when LaBatte played his first game with the Blue Bombers, his line coach, Bob Wiley, told him, “I hope you know what side of the line to line up on, LaBatte!” She goes to say, “He was just

Not only did he get to be a part of the Grey Cup championship team at home, LaBatte was also named Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman at the 2013 CFL Most Outstanding Player Awards. About the Grey Cup win he says, “It was almost surreal. I mean, you’ve worked so hard to reach it. That Grey Cup has just owned your life for as long as you’ve been playing in the CFL. It’s on your mind every day. You want to be part of the championship team, and until you are, you have a hunger there that won’t be filled until you finally get to hoist the Grey Cup. It still hasn’t really sunk in. To be a member on one of the four teams from Saskatchewan to ever win it, it’s pretty special.” LaBatte is happy to be back in Saskatchewan. To add to all the excitement, LaBatte also has wonderful things happening in his personal life: he and his fiancé, Amanda, are set to be married in early 2014, and have a beautiful 15-month-old daughter, Asha Rose. Hard work and perseverance are paying off for this hometown boy.

REBUILDING DREAMS: FROM DEVASTATION TO DESIGN BY ELDON RONDEAU

he golf course in spring is a special time of year. Staff is refreshed and enthusiastic, and members and green fee players are excited, positive this is the year they will break 90. The spring of 2011 was no different. Everything was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;go,â&#x20AC;? but there were rumours of a possible flood, and very slowly, ominous signs began to emerge.

On June 18, 2011, the beautiful Woodlawn golf course ended up in North Dakota due to excessive water in Rafferty Dam. Unfortunately, the sandbag dike that had been erected around the golf shop by staff and volunteers was useless. The devastation was mind-boggling. Considerable damage occurred to the clubhouse that had opened just a couple years earlier. A hardworking group of

dedicated volunteers and staff quelled concerns that the Woodlawn Golf Club would become history as the clubhouse was stripped down to the bare walls and restoration begun. The business sector of Estevan and surrounding area stepped forward, and by July, the clean-up and the rebuilding of the front nine was underway. Fundraising

L-R Linda Murphy, Allen Dewald, Bob Currie, Amanda Minchin, Brian Dueck, Cindy Dueck, Tracey Tuchscherer. FineLifestyles

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efforts were very successful with TS & M Supply purchasing the naming rights and numerous companies and individuals making generous donations. Membership meetings were held and progressiveminded thinkers began the process of rebuilding the back nine. Les Furberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group was hired in July to supply golf design services. Needless to say there was no golf at Woodlawn that summer but there was definitely a lot of activity. In the spring of 2012, the front nine was opened and the membership responded. Although at times it seemed to be an administrative nightmare, the golf shop staff was able to accommodate 18-hole rounds, menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; night with as many as eight people on each tee box, and most of the usual tournaments. At the same time, the work continued to rebuild what nature had destroyed. In the fall of 2012, the back nine was handed off to course superintendent, Bob Currie.

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On the first weekend of June 2013, two years after the flood, golfers were playing the new back nine. The condition of the course improved weekly with the help of an excellent growing season. Everyone agreed that the back nine was an excellent track, but most of the compliments concerned the large, multi-tiered greens. By the end of the 2013 season, the whole course was in prime condition. The upcoming spring of 2014 will see a unique, beautiful and challenging course for all golfers. The installation of four tee boxes enable players to play the course designed for their capabilities. From scratch golfers to beginners, Woodlawn offers a friendly and enjoyable way to spend an idyllic experience. The staff looks forward to seeing all players back in the swing of things this summer.

TS&M Woodlawn Golf Club 3kms South on Hwy 47 Estevan woodlawngolf@sasktel.net estevangolf.com 306.634.2138 306.634.2017

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WEYBURN RED WINGS

2014

January

2014

February

Home Games

A Winning Tradition!

THE CANELSON —DRILLING—

Away Games

BAT - Battlefords EST - Estevan FF - Flin Flon HUM - Humboldt KIN - Kindersley LR - La Ronge MELF - Melville NIP - Nipawin ND - Notre Dame YOR - Yorkton

ESTEVAN

—BRUINS—

We’ve undergone some changes this past season; you can see the new faces in the office and on the ice. Come out to any one of the home games and experience the high energy atmosphere. Be sure to mark your calendar for February 1st when the Bruins take on Flin Flon. The club is giving away a trip for two to Las Vegas, and all you have to do is buy a 50/50 ticket. One lucky winner will go home with the cash and a second winner will win a free trip!

Something 1 of 1

HOMETOWN SERVICE WITH TOP QUALITY BRANDS BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK

he most important thing we can do is supply excellent value, selection and service to our customers,” says Desmond Derosier, owner and operator of The Brick in Estevan.

“

Just a little over five years ago, The Brick opened its doors to serve the south east area of the province. Due to rapid growth in the area, Desmond and his partner saw a need for a business that supplies a wide range of furniture, electronics and appliances. “At that time Estevan was the smallest location for The Brick in Canada,” he recalls.

PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

“But my partner grew up in Saskatchewan and was very much aware of the growth potential in the area.” The vision was to open a store that would offer consumers the quality of service provided by a local store as well as the broad selection and price range of a national chain. Being locally owned but nationally priced offers customers the best of both worlds. Patrons receive personal hometown service along with price and selection without driving to Regina or across the border.

A committed sales team is a strong asset for any business, and that’s what you get at The Brick. Desmond explains that the sales staff works on a commission basis. Although this tends to trigger alarms for a lot of people as they think of high-pressure sales people who try to sell things that nobody wants, this is not the case at The Brick. Commission sales has changed over the years and is no longer about written business, but about delivering and retaining that business. “Because our sales staff is commissioned, they will make the extra effort and go out

BACK ROW Kayla Purcha, Kim Foster, Cody Klyne, Kim Ball, Phoebe Lukye, Desmond Derosier, Theresa Parpa-Gurka FRONT ROW Jessica Schiml, Mackenzie Derosier, Jaxon Derosier, Lisa Oliver FineLifestyles

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of their way to make sure our customers are happy,” he says. “Our staff gets paid to sell to people and keep them happy. This makes a huge difference in the quality of service that customers receive.” Impeccable service is top priority and the entire sales staff is committed to customer satisfaction. The Brick’s goal is to make customers for life. Everyone on the team is welcoming and will take the time to help customers find the best options for them. “We don’t want anyone going home with something they don’t need,” states Desmond. The service doesn’t stop in the store: delivery and set up services are also available to customers in Estevan. Weekly delivery service is also provided to surrounding communities like Oxbow, Carnduff, Carlyle, Weyburn and area. Desmond attributes this high quality service to the management and staff. A strong leadership team, including wife Lisa as store manager and operating partner, plus Phoebe as sales manager, has developed the store into a strong local business that provides the best in customer service. In 2011, The Brick in Estevan was named Franchise Store of the Year amongst 53 stores across the country. “Lisa and Phoebe both run the store on a day-to-day basis and have taken it to a place that we never expected at all,” he remarks. The Brick carries a wide selection of product lines including furniture, appliances, electronics, mattresses and home décor accents. The range of variety and price is available to patrons of any taste or budget. Whether looking for high-end electronics or a basic but comfortable couch, you can trust the staff at The Brick to help you find what you’re looking for. You’ll find all top appliance brand names like Samsung, Whirlpool, Kitchen Aid, Maytag, LG, Frigidaire, Electrolux and more. The Brick in Estevan has over 30 beds on display plus a wide assortment of comfortable mattress sets in stock. Choose from top mattresses such as Serta, Simmons, Stearns and Foster, Tempurpedic and Sealy. Desmond encourages customers to come in and check out the selection. “Ask about

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our 90-day sleep guarantee and 180day price guarantee,” he comments. In keeping with its high level of service, The Brick will also deliver your new bed and set it up for you.

support local causes and charities. The future continues to look bright for The Brick in Estevan and the entire staff is looking forward to serving the area for many years to come.

In store financing is also accessible to their clientele. “We offer one of the best and most flexible financing options available to customers,” Desmond says.

For more information about The Brick and their wide selection of products and services, drop in to see them.

Since 2008, The Brick has been a part of the Estevan area. “We love this community and we love being a part of it,” expresses Desmond. That’s why it’s so important to Desmond and Lisa to be involved in community events and

The Brick 400 King St Estevan S4A 2B4 306.634.7211 www.thebrick.com

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EstEvan

Feel the Energy By Tonya LamberT

stevan, the province’s eighth largest city, has a palpable current of energy running through it. A veritable electrical impulse of dynamic growth pulsates through the business sector in this city where the average household income is 114 per cent above the national average and the commercial property taxes are the second lowest in the province. This energetic prosperity is also reflected in the vibrant sporting community headed by the city’s SJHL team, the Estevan Bruins, as well as in its many vital arts and cultural groups and centers, including the Souris Valley Theatre, the Souris Valley Museum and the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum. However, none of these are the reason why this city is known as ‘the Energy City’; that title comes from three of its major industries — the oil and gas industry, coal mining and power generation. Estevan has two coal mines and two power stations located near the city. The lignite coal excavated at these two mines is used in the generation of thermal electric power at the area’s Shand and Boundary Dam power stations, the latter of which alone provides 30 per cent of the province’s electricity. The area will also soon be home to SaskPower’s

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Carbon Capture facility, the world’s largest commercially-viable carbon capture and storage site. In addition, the landscape around Estevan is dotted with thousands of oil wells. There are more than 200 businesses in the area that are directly related to the oil industry alone. Visitors can take a free guided energy tour through a power station, greenhouse and strip mine. Founded in 1892, Estevan became a city in 1957. Its location near the Canada-U.S. border stimulates the local business and tourist sectors of the economy. Many people are drawn to the area to partake in its excellent big game hunting as well as to fish for largemouth bass in Boundary Dam, the only place in the country where these fish are found. Estevan’s status as the country’s ‘Sunshine Capital’ with an average of 2540 hours of sunlight each year is a very attractive feature and contributes to the vigorous agricultural industry in the region. The city of Estevan and the surrounding RM of Estevan #5 work together to promote economic growth and prosperity for the people of the area, making this a great place to live and raise a family.

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TOP-NOTCH RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS BY APOLLINE LUCYK PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

ray’s construction is a highly regarded construction company servicing the Estevan and Weyburn region of Saskatchewan. Owner Brandon Gray has been doing construction work ever since he was 13 years old, and has continued to expand his skills and expertise ever since. “I started off drywalling with my buddy’s grandpa, and eventually I started to get

work on my own,” says Gray. “I just [had] a knack for it, and really enjoyed doing it.” Gray’s Construction specializes in residential construction, and is knowledgeable in all areas of the trade from drywalling and painting, to siding, window and door installation, as well as cabinetry installation and trim. “We will do complete builds from the

ground up,” says Gray. “We also do a lot of renovations, including basement renovations and complete home renovations. In the winter, we do a lot of drywalling, insulating, and painting.” Gray has three different crews that specialize in insulating, drywall boarding and taping, and finishing. For the few areas that Gray’s team do not do themselves — such as electrical and plumbing —

ABOVE L-R Shane Altenhofen, Mitchell Moore, Avery Laliberte, Brandon Gray OPPOSITE PAGE BOTTOM RIGHT Jordan Culomee

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ABOVE Brandon Gray with wife Danielle Gray

they have a number of professionals they regularly work with and trust to subcontract the work out to. Gray’s Construction is the perfect company to work with if you are looking to revamp your home or build a new home in the Estevan area. They have extensive experience in residential construction work and are more than happy to answer any questions you might have during the process. They are always ready to give advice and suggestions on construction options, from siding and stucco, to insulating and interior finishing. “We try to always show clients more than one option, and give them a little bit of a variety to pick from,” adds Gray. “We give out suggestions and options of a few things that they can do, rather than just coming in and doing what they ask us to do. We want our

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customers to always be completely satisfied with their newly fitted home, and we try to make the experience really enjoyable for the home owner as well.” Gray’s Construction always puts the client first, and ensures that they have the time and resources to complete every job to the fullest. “We do lots, but we don’t take on anything that we can’t do, and provide a quality job at,” says Gray. “If we are too busy with other projects, we can recommend another company to take on your job.” Contact Gray’s Construction to start building or remodelling your home today.

Gray’s South East Drywall & Construction Ltd. 306.461.9067 bgrayconstltd@hotmail.ca

UNIQUE CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS We specialize in residential custom renovations for your bath, kitchen and bedroom. Offering drywall, trim, flooring, tile, paint, poly, insulation, siding and more!

Sandon Weber | 306.421.3557

check out our

new website! www.FineLifestyles.ca AMAZING RECIPES! FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINES! AND MUCH MORE!

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TIME FOR CHANGE, TIME FOR COMFORT BY COURTNEY TAIT PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

heck out the brand-new showroom of Comfort Plumbing, and you may be excited to see the variety of not only taps, toilets, and shower enclosures, but also barbecues, fireplaces, pumps and water heaters. Owner, plumber and gasfitter Eric Langston saw a need for change in the selection available to Estevan residents. “I’m looking to incorporate innovative products that people may not find elsewhere in the area,” says Langston. While Comfort Plumbing first opened in January of 2013, the business moved

to a more central location this fall, and features a newly-renovated space showing a diverse range of CSA-approved products. Brands like WeatherKing, Armstrong, Kohler, American Standard, Brizo, Mirabelle, Toto, Delta and Moen are offered, along with Napoleon fireplaces, which are unavailable elsewhere in Estevan. Comfort Plumbing also supplies products by Rheem, which Langston believes is a high-quality brand that surpasses many on the market. “There hasn’t been a Rheem dealer in Estevan for 15 to 20 years,” says Langston. “You still run into the old Rheem products, but

nothing new. I use products that are most functional and most reliable.” With eight years of experience in the plumbing industry and a varied skill set that includes gas fitting and installation and servicing of air conditioners, furnaces, boilers and unit heaters, Langston provides trustworthy, professional service. Comfort Plumbing is available for both residential and light commercial work, including renovations and new construction. “When I say I’m going to come to a job, I’m going to be there,” says Langston. “People appreciate the time span [in which] I get to a job. They’re ABOVE Eric Langston

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really happy about it when they call me, and within a day or two I’m usually there.”

something that’s going to fit their needs and their budget.”

Comfort Plumbing employees are always in uniform when working in a client’s home or business, and Langston’s sense of professionalism is shown through his open, honest communication. “I try to help my customers understand what the problem is,” he says. “If I do a service job, l let them know what the issue is and give them options on the best solution. I’m not going to stand behind any product I don’t like.”

Clients can consult with Langston on Comfort Plumbing’s products and services either at the company’s showroom or their own home. Langston looks forward to seeing the business grow. “I want to have a strong relationship with my customers,” he says. “I want my customers to be satisfied for years and years to come.”

The company’s slogan is “Time For Change, Time For Comfort,” and along with high-quality service, Comfort Plumbing provides excellent value. Langston says his hourly rates are typically $25 less than his competitors. He offers both middle and high-end products, and stays firm on quotes. “How much a person wants to spend is up to them,” says Langston. “I can give them

Comfort Plumbing Ltd. 1211 4th Street Estevan 306.637.2507 ABOVE L-R Mark Bolton, Man Ho Lee, Eric Langston, Nathan Ayotte, Damandeb Singh, Gurminder Grewal and Office Manager Lindy Darling (opposite).

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Weyburn

Where Opportunity Beckons By Tonya LamberT

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or over a century, people have heard the call of opportunity and flocked to the city of Weyburn in southeastern Saskatchewan. With the first settlers arriving by train on the newly-built Soo Line just before the turn of the century, it took less than two decades for this once bare bank of the Souris River to grow into a bustling city. Indeed, 2013 marks Weyburn’s centennial as a city.

a clean and healthy environment. “There is a pride among residents that has developed over the years that many cities try to replicate,” states Rochelle Wendt, marketing coordinator for SEREDA and the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce. “Newcomers will tell you that one of the strongest impressions that they get when investigating a move here is that Weyburn residents genuinely love where they live.”

An expanding population and economic growth are central to Weyburn’s story. From the start, agricultural has been the backbone of the local economy. This continues to be true with Weyburn boasting Canada’s largest inland grain gathering point with over half a million tons of grain passing through the city’s terminals every year.

Supplying Weyburn and surrounding area with maintenance-free, PVC windows and doors.

The discovery of oil and the building of the first oil well in 1954 brought great economic prosperity to the region which continues to the present day. The area is a leader in sustainable development in both the oil and gas and agricultural industries with Nor Amera Bio Energy Ethanol Facility as well as the Weyburn-Midale Carbon Dioxide Project. Over the years, Weyburn has attracted many regional offices and manufacturing facilities to build there. As well, the city is home to more than 220 stores and personal services. On the horizon for Weyburn is a new hospital, the completion of the high school renovation project, new retail and housing developments, and investment in recreational facilities and infrastructure. Weyburn is a close-knit neighbourhood community. Its low crime rates, economic growth and its diverse cultural and recreational offerings make it a great place for a family to live. The exuberance of a young, engaged population offers a wealth of social networking opportunities that create a welcoming atmosphere for new residents. The city’s well-maintained infrastructure along with its many parks connected by the 10 km Tatagwa Trail System provides

Locally owned and operated since 2004. Southern Glass Works 1524 1st Avenue NW, Weyburn 306.842.2574 | www.southernglassworks.ca

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REALTORS WORKING FOR YOU: Going Above and Beyond the Call of Duty BY ALYSSA RUDYCK PHOTOS BY IMAGES BY GILLIES

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ttempting to buy or sell real estate can be a nightmare, especially when you don’t know what you are doing. This is where realtors come in. Operating under the venerated RE/MAX name, RE/MAX Weyburn Realty 2011 helps clients alleviate some of the stress that comes along with buying or selling property, by dedicating themselves to going the extra mile to assist home, business and farmland owners through the process. “We handle all residential, commercial and farmland [properties] through our office, [and] have several agents that are multi-qualified in [two or more] of these areas,” said owner Winston Bailey. “We have such a variety of clientele: from first time home owners that are just getting established, to seniors that have owned their homes all their lives and are going into condominiums, and everyone else in between.” our agents almost immediately, all the time – nobody waits very long if they have an inquiry on a property.”

LEFT Winston & Jean Bailey ABOVE Receptionist Linda Grams

Bailey first delved into the real estate world nine years ago. He made a name for himself working for other brokers before going on to purchase RE/MAX Weyburn Realty in 2011. He has been expanding the brokerage ever since, and recently decided to open a new location to accommodate for this expansion. “The brokerage office had been running several years prior to this, and the reason for the expansion was that we were running out of room,” said Bailey. “Our number of agents and need for extra clerical staff solicited the move, and we’re very happy to be here. We’re

looking forward to the upcoming years of continuing to give first rate service to all our clientele.” According to Bailey, his clients have come to rely on RE/MAX Weyburn Realty 2011 realtors for their friendly, personal and dedicated service. “I do not have an agent who does not work very hard for their clients, and that is what is making the office successful: people going the extra mile,” said Bailey. “The comment that comes back to me all the time is that my salespeople did something beyond the normal call of duty to make things work. We also have more realtors in our office than any office in Weyburn, and the advantage of that is that we can serve more people. We can always wait on our clients with one of

In conjunction with Trimount Weyburn Developments Ltd., RE/MAX Weyburn Realty 2011 has also recently begun construction on a series of affordable, modern duplex developments. “Trimount has done a fantastic job in Weyburn with the quality of the product they have produced,” said Bailey. “The first condo is almost 100 per cent sold, and the second one has the foundation in and will start framing in the spring. Under construction we have four of the 14 duplex units under way. The 1,280-square-foot, semi-detached units have a couple of different floor plans, but all have full basements and attached two car garages. We believe they bring a little bit of a different aspect to multi-family living, but still give you all the amenities of condo living, such as having yard work and snow removal done for you.”

Remax Weyburn Realty 2011 136 A 1st Street, Weyburn, SK S4H 0T2 306.848.1000 remax.weyburn@sasktel.net weyburnlistings.com

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RestoRing the Past and Building the FutuRe By Tonya LamberT Photos Tina Hudson

he economy in Weyburn is booming and that is good news for those who, like Brad Murphy, are in the construction business. There are many new homes and businesses being built, additions being made and renovation work being undertaken. Murphy Construction is able to help with your building needs in all of these areas, as well as with finishing work. Indeed, their versatility is one of the things that set Murphy Construction apart. With 19 years of experience in

the construction industry, owner Brad Murphy has a wide knowledge base that enables the company to undertake diverse projects. Furthermore, Murphyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong organizational skills and ability to multitask allows the company to work on several jobs at the same time. This ensures that time is well used and that employees are always kept busy. Murphy is a general contractor who believes strongly in doing things according to code; no cutting corners. This means that a job done by Murphy Construction

is a job well done â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a job that will last. It is this knowledge that led to the company being hired to repair and protect the Regina Riot mural that had been saved from the demolition of the Souris Valley Mental Institution. The mural had been placed in a wood and Plexiglas container, but moisture was collecting inside and causing damage to the concrete around the art. Murphy Construction removed the casing and repaired the concrete. Then, they built a wooden frame for the mural to be displayed in.

ABOVE James Graven, Brad Murphy and Chris Gillespie

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As a general contractor, Murphy Construction can help you with every step of your building project. They will work with the designer or architect to ensure the plans fit your needs and budget, they will put together a timeline for construction, look after hiring workers and specialist subcontractors like electricians and plumbers, acquire the necessary equipment and materials, and oversee everything. With Murphy Construction, you can rest assured knowing you are in good hands. “We have been very pleased with the friendliness and professionalism of Brad and his crew. We are kept informed about everything,” say customers Norm and Ronda McFaddon. Murphy Construction believes strongly in family values and in giving back to the community. In 2011, the flood that hit Weyburn caused a sewage back-up into the basement of the Family Place. The entire basement needed to be replaced. Work was done by volunteers, including Murphy Construction, which donated so much time and labour that the centre named two rooms in its honour. Chris Gillespie, an employee with Murphy Construction, says that working for the company has been a great experience because of the opportunity to work on so many different and challenging projects. He says they are kept busy year round — there is always something to do. Gillespie notes, “It is great to see a job well done. It gives you a sense of pride.” Murphy Construction Weyburn 306.861.7131 BELOW Taylor, Carrie, Brad and Bransen Murphy

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estrum Lumber opened isitsa family doors owned in 1953, and from commitment to the customer have been60the keys to our estrum Lumber business that has been in the building material industry for over years. day one Our we goal haveis worked to provide outstanding success. With four stores in southern Saskatchewan to provide customers with competitive pricing on quality materials, without sacri cing quality we are professional and personal service. building service alltoyour building needs. Pleaseat give service. Our knowledgeableWe sta believe will workthat alongside you andable yourto contractors provide the right products the us a call, strong relationships, providing fair pricing, and our no matter how large, or small, your project is. right time to help your project run smoothly. From foundation to nish, we are there to help. For all your building supply needs see the sta at Westrum Lumber.

1769-1st Ave. N.E., Weyburn 1769-1st Weyburn || 306.842.6681 306.842.6681 80

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LIFE IS GOOD IN RIVERWOOD BY TOBIE HAINSTOCK PHOTOS IMAGES BY GILLIES

magine owning your own home years before you thought possible and in a location featuring mature trees and parkways situated by the river. A location that is attractive and loaded with local history. Weyburn’s Riverwood Development is more than just a group of new homes; it’s the beginning of an exciting new neighbourhood. Located along the Souris River and Tatagwa Parkway, Riverwood will feature parks, walking and biking trails. The peaceful beauty of this area holds a welcoming appeal to people of all walks of life. Whether you are looking for a place to raise a family or enjoy your retirement

years, Riverwood is a wonderful place to call home. “We are currently in phase one of the development,” remarks Munir Haque, development manager for Riverwood Development Corporation. “There are 64 lots for single family homes and 36 condominium units currently under development.”

Life is good in Riverwood The layout of the development is designed to appeal to the nature lover at heart with easy access to the parkway and river. The mature trees are an added bonus

to this scenic location. The lots range in size from 30 to 68 feet, depending on the needs of the homeowner. By maintaining architectural controls of the homes being built, Riverwood Developments is able to ensure quality of the community while protecting your investment and the future value of your home. For those who are looking for the appeal of the natural surroundings without being tied down with yard maintenance, the apartment-style condos are the ideal option. These stunning high-end units range from 1,100 to 1,600 square feet. Homebuyers can choose from floor plans featuring two bedrooms and two ABOVE The drive into Riverwood

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bathrooms or two bedrooms, a den and two bathrooms. All units include stainless steel appliances, central air conditioning, granite countertops, ceramic tile, carpet, in-suite laundry, heated underground parking, storage and much more. “These homes are perfect for everyone from first time homeowners to empty nesters,” comments Haque. Riverwood Developments is pleased to offer the experienced sales services of the local Century 21 HomeTown team to assist people throughout their homebuying process. Erik Anderson and his team are dedicated to providing excellent service and have a strong history in the Weyburn area.

“

We chose to build in Riverwood because of the beauty of the area. Kerry keeps us informed as the build progresses and is great at ensuring that each stage is completed on time. Nicor is using as many local sub-trades as possible, which allows us to have face-to-face discussions with many of the people working on our house, which is important to us. We can’t wait for more families like ours to join us in this beautiful community. – Sean and Dawn Purdue

”

Haque goes on to say that Riverwood Developments is dedicated to serving the Weyburn community. Supporting the local businesses is a priority for Riverwood Developments. “We strongly believe in supporting the community we are in by utilizing local services and suppliers as much as possible, while providing the best possible value to Riverwood residents,” he states.

Quality Craftsmanship Riverwood Developments is proud to be affiliated with Nicor Construction, who is top rated amongst contractors in the area. Once the initial sale of a Riverwood lot is completed, you are safely handed over to Kerry McDowell, construction manager for Nicor. “Our role is to facilitate the building of the house,” he comments. “We work almost exclusively with subtrade contractors and try to hire local people first,” adds McDowell. McDowell sings the praises of the sub-contractors they hire stating that all trades must meet with the high standards of workmanship Nicor holds. “All our sub-trades are qualified professionals,” he notes, “they Condos are an artist’s rendering, colours subject to change

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“

We are so excited about the sense of community at Riverwood. We haven’t moved in yet and we already know our neighbours. It’s going to be a great place to raise our family. Kerry has been absolutely phenomenal. We didn’t think we could build our dream home at this point in our lives but Nicor worked with us, and our budget. Kerry has been like a friend right from the start. He really cares about the outcome of our build. – Kelvin and Natalie Gray.

”

are experts in what they do and contain a high level of pride in their work.” One of the key advantages to using local trades for the building of the Riverwood Development is keeping communication open not only throughout the build, but long after as well.

McDowell is very focused on providing the best service possible and takes the personal approach with all of his clients. “I’m never off the clock for my clients, they know that they can call me anytime,” he remarks.

The architectural controls are design guidelines with sufficient flexibility that encourage customers to personalize and build the home of their dreams. Building custom homes can be quite overwhelming, but homeowners can be reassured with McDowell’s experience and creativity. “I guide the customers every step of the way through the process,” he says.

Because Riverwood Developments is a ‘sister company,’ McDowell knows the project intimately and can answer questions regarding the entire development. He goes on to say that Riverwood Developments and Nicor are very sensitive to the history of the property and appreciate the opportunity to repurpose the area. “We are very mindful of the property’s background and are working very hard to keep the integrity of the area intact.”

McDowell is a strong advocate of the ‘open door’ policy. He explains that customers are welcome to show up at the build site whenever they wish. He encourages people to ask questions and welcomes homeowners to be an active part of the building process.

McDowell explains that there’s more to Riverwood than just building houses. “Our goal is to create not only the home, but the community,” he observes, “and

that community needs to be a place that people will be pleased to live in and raise their families.”

A Place to Call Home No matter what stage you are at in your life, you want a quality home that is comfortable and suits your lifestyle. The Riverwood Development in Weyburn offers an ideal location to build and live. From the top rated sales team to the contractor with the personal touch, you will experience an impeccable level of service from the moment you make the purchase to the day you move in and beyond. Make Riverwood your place to call home. For more information about the Riverwood Development, visit www.riverwoodweyburn.com and www.nicorgroup.ca/nicor-construction ABOVE Mohl Residence, Riverwood, Weyburn

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“

The mature trees, the river and the large lots were big reasons why I chose to build my home in Riverwood. It’s a quiet area with little traffic, which is very important to me. Nicor is a reputable company with years of experience. I appreciate Kerry’s openness. He kept me in the loop about everything right from the beginning and was quick to get back to me if I had any questions. – Laurel Mohl

”

Riverwood Development Corporation 306.525.1381 www.riverwoodweyburn.com

“

We like the way the area has retained some of the maturity of the surroundings. There are a lot of decisions to make when building a home and Kerry has given us very good direction. We needed a contractor to look after our build and Nicor has been open with us throughout the process. We are very confident that Riverwood will be a lovely place to live. – Allan and Judy Beach

Nicor Construction 306.551.5145 www.nicorgroup.ca/nicor-construction

”

TOP/BOTTOM LEFT Mohl Home TOP RIGHT Nicor Show Home, Riverwood Weyburn MIDDLE L-R Laurel Mohl; Client/Home Owner, Kerry McDowell, Nicor Construction Manager

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“My business is your best interest”

"I fo u n d my experience working with Kerrie to be very positive. The whole p ro ce ss could have been quite stressful but that was not the case working with Kerrie because of her knowledge, availability and professionalism. I would recommend Kerrie to my friends and family without hesitation." —Laurel Mohl–Weyburn, SK "I had a very good experience with Kerrie Moore who arranged my Mortgage financing. She was very prompt, clear and to the point, very professional, and knowledgeable. Thanks a lot for your customer service." —Eldrin Dass–Estevan, SK "My wife and I used Kerrie's services in the purchase of our townhome. We found Kerrie to be personable, attentive, and extremely effective from start to finish. We would fully recommend homebuyers to Kerrie. We know they will be taken care of!" —Rob and Terry Jordens–Weyburn, SK

The Mortgage Group Prairies Inc.

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Kerrie Moore 4–1118 Broad Street, Regina 306.861.9595

COMBINING EXPERIENCE AND INNOVATION to Achieve Fast, Profitable Sales BY ALYSSA RUDYCK

hose at Century 21 HomeTown in Weyburn have a combined 70 years of experience, with the energy and innovation of a new generation of realtors. Offering their clientele professional guidance in all areas of real estate, Century 21 HomeTown has made it their mission to secure higher profits and faster sales for clients, while providing their extensive industry knowledge and access to the most cutting edge technology.

“I think people will find that we make ourselves available, and work hard to make sure that their assets are looked after,” adds Erik Anderson, Century 21 HomeTown sales manager. “We have aggressive and proactive agents and the best internet marketing strategy in real estate. Century 21.ca generates 1.4 million hits a month, and bring buyers from all over the world to listings right here in Weyburn.”

“The main benefit we offer our clients is to sell their homes at the highest possible price, in the shortest possible time,” says Century 21 HomeTown broker, Kevin Lackey. “We accomplish this by offering our consultants ongoing education, and giving them the skills and the best tools to effectively negotiate and market properties.”

Century 21 consultants also make a point of sharing their extensive knowledge base, and providing clients with statistics and hard facts about the market to help them make informed decisions. By staying on top of the current market, Century 21 HomeTown is able to help clients recognize what a good deal, and to avoid overpaying or underselling.

Century 21 HomeTown is the exclusive listing agent for all properties in Riverwood, Weyburn’s newest residential community. As this community takes shape, it is the perfect time to build your dream home in a dream location.

Century 21 HomeTown 216 Railway Avenue Weyburn, SK 306.842.1516 hometown@century21.ca www.c21hometown.ca

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EXPERTAdvice How to Dress Your Windows

Natalie Gray Style Consultant Budget Blinds of Southeast SK 1433 Hamilton St. Regina, Saskatchewan 306.842.4272 www.budgetblinds.com/ReginaSouth

indow coverings, when chosen correctly, can add immensely to the visual appeal of a room, and your house as a whole. They do not simply cover your window — they frame your window and your home. For this reason, it is important to consider all your options for window coverings, and take time choosing the perfect window coverings for your home. To dress your windows, start with a blind — something to provide the level of privacy you desire. Perhaps you would like a horizontal wood or fabric blind that you can tilt slightly to sneak a peek of the outside world or open up to allow the light of day into your home. Other great options include cellular and pleated shades. They are excellent for insulating against hot and cold temperatures, as well as sound. They also come in a wide

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variety of colours in both light-filtering and blackout fabrics. They are top sellers because they can be made cordless and open from either the bottom or the top. If child and pet safety is a concern, consider choosing one of our cordless blinds or roller shades to provide privacy along with peace of mind. It is important to choose a product that functions the way you need it to, and adds to the beauty of your room. Now that you have your foundation (the perfect blind) it’s time to add some layers. This is where inspiration and creativity come into play. Think of this step as creating a frame for your view into the world. For example, you could compliment your blinds with a fabricwrapped valance or decorative wood cornice to add sleek, simple glamour to the top of your window frame. Mounted on the outside of your trim, you can then tuck in a couple of custom drapery panels to add a pop of colour, complimented by a few throw pillows for a customized look. Or if you like to accessorize, you could consider a decorative drapery rod

and add some fenials to the end of the rod to achieve that bling to compliment your new custom drapes. However, you do not necessarily need to fully dress your windows. There are many simple, yet elegant window dressing options available as well. Roman shades are made with a wide range of fabrics, creating looks from simple and clean to bold and luxurious. They are perfect in bedrooms to add softness to the windows. Budget Blinds carries a wide variety of Roman shades, including ones with the ever-popular “top down” feature. Illusion Transitional shades and Shadow Magic shades (silhouettes) are absolutely stunning. These shades both operate like roller shades and can provide either a sheer or solid look. Both are very visually appealing and provide varied levels of privacy and light control. They are also the perfect shades to motorize and tie into your new home automation system.

These are only some of many types of blinds and shades on the market today. Ultimately, the most important thing to consider when dressing a window is that it’s yours — it needs to be perfect for you and accomplish exactly what you desire. Call your local Budget Blinds style consultant today to start fashioning a new look for your windows. Photos are of the Budget Blinds window and home decor featured in the Regina STARS Lottery Show Home. Our Partners • Trusted Regina www.trustedregina.com • Regina Home Builders Association www.reginahomebuilders.com • Regina Chamber of Commerce www.reginachamber.com • Better Business Bureau of Saskatchewan - sask.bbb.org • Regina Women’s Network www.rwn.caw

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The Benefits of a Mortgage Broker

Elaine Terry (AMP) Premier Mortgage, Regina C: 306.529.8717 TF: 888.629.8789 e.t.one@sasktel.net www.elaineterry.ca

Mortgage brokers provide their services for free to the borrower, and that is simply because the lenders pay the broker for bringing them the client. A client’s business is the means for growing the lenders portfolio.

What if your credit is not suitable enough, or you are unable to prove your self-employed income on paper? Mortgage brokers can offer lenders in these types of situations. Certain criteria apply.

Mortgage brokers will take the time to meet clients outside of normal business hours on weekends and evenings. They’re even happy to do so in the comfort of the client’s home. Can you recall anytime when your banker has suggested the same?

Mortgage brokers offer refinancing as well if you are a client that wants to consolidate on any property, your prime, a second home or investment property.

Mortgage brokers will offer their best rate right from the start, whereas a financial institution may only do so after being told by their client that a better offer has been given to them.

You may be a client that is in foreclosure with your financial institution and have tons of equity in your property. In many cases, mortgage brokers can save you from these situations by using one of their private lending sources.

he old saying, “You should always seek out an expert in the field that they are experienced in,” is a very true statement. If you were seeking out someone to construct a building, you would want to speak to a professional framer. When it comes to the electrical work, you would hire an electrician. So, it obviously makes sense to seek out a professional mortgage broker for all of your mortgage needs.

Variable or fixed? At the end of the day, it is your mortgage, so shouldn’t it fit your specific need? The mortgage broker can help you with the decision that makes the most sense for you. Items such as the legal costs and down payment will be discussed, which plays a part in the application.

A last piece of advice: In every industry, there are rookies, as well as people who are not passionate about what they do. When researching your mortgage broker, make the call, ask questions, and make sure time is spent on a conversation that makes you feel you are an important part of their day and that you are given a ton of information.

Mortgage brokers specialize in mortgages. But in saying this, seek out a broker with many years of experience — not a rookie — unless he or she is working side-by-side with a mentor that has the knowledge.

Before you make an offer on a property, my advice is to call a mortgage broker for a pre-approval to determine your maximum amount and to put in place a rate hold that is usually good for 120 days.

I love helping people and am very passionate about this. This is my dream job. To learn more about my professional experience both in mortgages and credit, please visit my website at: www.elaineterry.ca

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Douglas HeigHts lot Development upDate

Watch for a Spec home being built by the builder! Are you a builder? Would you like a spec home? Contact us! BuiLder AnnounCes… Standard raised bungalow home 1,500 sq. ft. $369,900 + lot value $130,000. Special pricing until Dec. 31/2013 Garage—24’µ24’ with 8’ door. SOLD

HELD

Triple for $10,000 extra.

HELD

SOLD

Two-story home, 1,770 sq. ft. $419,900 + lot value $130,000. Pick your lot.

SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD

Remember—Vegas, Vegas.

SOLD

All homes will have; granite/ quartz counters, undermount sinks, hardwood in living room, hallways and/or great room, tiles in kitchen, and wall-to-wall carpet in bedroom.

SOLD SOLD

Featuring the only walkout lots available in Weyburn.

SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD

L–R Ajit Matharu, Charmaine Luscombe

Charmaine Luscombe, B.A, B.Ed Homelife Prairie Realty 306.535.3948 CharmaineRegina@gmail.com

Ajit Matharu Homelife Crawford Realty 306.581.3130 AjitRegina@gmail.com FineLifestyles

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BEST PLACES TO LIVE

J & C Custom Cabinets LtD.

We at J & C Custom Cabinets have been fabricating and installing custom built cabinetry in Regina and southern Saskatchewan for 30 years. Known for completing small and large renovation projects, including total facelifts of interiors of several houses in the Regina area, we do our job successfully with great pride. J & C Custom Cabinets only uses qualified trades people and companies that we count on to finish projects in a timely fashion. Jim McCallum

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306.585.2223

Gets it done right

I, owner Jim McCallum, and the staff at J & C Custom Cabinets thrive on making are customers happy with the end product. J & C Custom Cabinets is the sole cabinet supplier for one of Reginaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top Custom Home Builders for the last ten years. Our dedication to our customers is what this company thrives on whether it is a small job or large project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we get it done.

1831 MacKay Street, Regina | jccabinets@sasktel.net FineLifestyles

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BEST PLACES TO LIVE

Don and K elly Larwo

Better OutdOOr Living Suncoast Screen Enclosures offers a screened-in, outdoor area that allows you to enjoy your deck, pool, spa or patio without the sense of being enclosed in an indoor space. These esthetically pleasing and durable sunrooms protect you from the wind, hot sun, rain and the nuisance of annoying and dangerous insects.

A Suncoast screen room works in the winter by keeping your deck area free of snow for the enjoyment of your spa and barbecue. The roof can be made of screening to allow an uninhibited view of the sky with other roof options available.

306.761.1801 dgl.inc@sasktel.net www.suncoastenclosures.com 94

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Be Inspired.

Step into one of our showrooms and see the endless possibilities that await you.

Suite Shown: Mirabelle Provincetown Suite

Our Showroom is Your Showroom

1176 Hamilton St, SK S4R 2B2 • Regina • 306-565-2284 Hours: Monday - Friday • 8:30-5:00 • Saturday • 9:00-3:00

www.kitchenandbathclassics.com

GLACIER GLASS

Call Glacier Glass for all your interior and exterior custom glass. Serving Southern Saskatchewan for over 30 years.

OUR QUALITY AND SERVICE IS CLEAR Auto • Residential • Commercial

Glacier Glass

410 Quebec Street, Regina | 306.545.3990 | www.glacierglass.com

Clean air in the home StartS with Clean DuCtS By Shell BuSey

ost of us are well aware that our heating and cooling system should be inspected annually. This is best done before the

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fall or winter rush. But making sure the furnace is up to snuff is not all one should do. Getting your home’s air ducts cleaned is also a crucial step in ensuring ideal air quality. If you haven’t had your home’s furnace ducts cleaned by a certified professional in the past five years or so, or if you have pets or a dusty or unpleasant

odour when your furnace comes on, it is advisable to consider getting your ducts cleaned by a professional. The most effective way to clean air ducts and a ventilation system is by having the contractor place the system under negative pressure through the use of a specialized truck-mounted vacuum.

As to how often they should be cleaned really depends on the individual household; under normal circumstances, every two to three years is advised. However, if you or someone in your home has allergies you may want to consider having the ducts serviced more often. A comprehensive cleaning of all heating and cooling system components (furnace fan blower, furnace heat exchange, air conditioning coil, humidifier and ducts) will also help air circulation. If you have recently had or are having your furnace upgraded to a more efficient heating system, you should have your heating ducts cleaned, and of course after any type of renovation that has caused a lot of dust (for example, from drywall, plaster or wood cutting projects). Be sure to allot three to four hours of time for the duct cleaners to do the job. Mention any other items that could require cleaning as well, such as your air conditioner coil or dryer vent. Now that the ducts have been cleaned, maintaining cleaner indoor air can be attained by using full-time air purification equipment such as an HRV (heat recovery ventilator) or highefficiency air filtration (hybrid systems). An HRV allows fresh air to enter while exhausting an equal amount of stale air and recovering the heat or cool from the exhaust side and using it to warm or cool fresher air coming in. Air is filtered before being redistributed in the house. Also now available are energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), which return not only heat energy, but moisture to help humidify the home if required. If you suffer from allergies or asthma you can add a HEPA (hybrid) filtration system to the HRV and have fresh, clean air. While you are having your ducts cleaned I would suggest also having your dryer venting cleaned as well. By maintaining clean dryer venting you reduce the risk of fire, save money on energy costs and prolong the life of your dryer. Good air quality in your home is something that will not only make you feel good, but will also make your home environment comfortable for family members with allergies and sensitivities to dust or other airborne particles. For more home-improvement information, to send Shell an email, or to watch Shellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ask Shell Coffee Break go to www. AskShell.com.

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LIFELONG Benefits

OF FUN & GAMES BY ERIN LEGG

2 M

om, I’m bored.” These three words are dreaded by every parent. Kids by nature are curious creatures filled to the brim with energy. Piquing a child’s interest with a new activity is not only a great way to ensure those dreaded words are never spoken (or whined), but gives the child a new outlet for creativity or physicality. “

Creative Play

Sometimes all it takes to beat boredom is let your child explore a new craft, game or imaginative activity. Creative play benefits kids by developing his or her imaginative curiosity, critical thinking skills, fine motor skills and overall intellectual wellbeing. Creative activities are a great outlet for children’s emotions and for learning the oh-so-essential skill of perseverance.

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Physical Activity

About one-third of Canadian children and adolescents are overweight or obese. These kids are more likely than children with healthy weights to grow up to be overweight or obese adults. A healthy lifestyle learned at a young age has lifelong effects. In addition to teaching your child healthy eating habits, let him or her explore various forms of physical activity. Not only does physical activity burn energy, it allows for strengthened muscles, improved flexibility and coordination, better sleep habits and overall emotional wellness. Research shows that children who learn new skills and teamwork from group-orientated sports have higher confidence, develop a greater ease of learning later in life, and have improved relationships with peers. Encouraging children to explore different types of creative and physical play opens up a world of endless learning and developmental possibilities. Life really is about fun and games!

ClutterX organizing systems, are thoughtfully designed and of the highest quality. Owner and President, Mark Dean, has completed hundreds of designs and installs during his career. He is passionate about helping you create organizing systems that suits your needs. We provide many options to help you organize spaces throughout your home. Let us design a space for you in your garage, pantry, closet, office, entrance, family room and more. Our products carry a free replacement policy against material failure, so rest assured you are getting quality at an affordable price. 3-D imaging software allows you to view your closet before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even installed!

Mark Dean, 306-596-5792 mark@clutterx.ca | clutterx.ca

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Planning and Vision EssEntial For oil and Gas sEctor BY PAUL HUBER

askatchewan has always been affectionately known as the “breadbasket of the world” with its rich soil and vast prairies. Naturally, our economy has focused primarily on agriculture, but it’s clear today that what is under the soil is changing the province’s economic landscape and making us the envy of the country. Saskatchewan is holding onto an abundant resource with potential yet to be fully developed. The oil and gas industry is booming in the province and production, though still second to Alberta, is at an all-time high.

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The development of this industry is an interesting one. Production has been climbing dramatically in recent years, and the general expectation is for this growth to continue. Since 2007, there seems to be a renewed business spirit establishing itself in the province, which is manifesting itself as prosperity and economic growth that are attracting immigration, migration and optimistic investment. In this economic climate, prospects for the province seem limitless. Spend some time down in the southeast of the province and certain issues emerge

that concern not only the industry, but the province as a whole. Whether it is National Geographic’s damning depiction of Alberta’s oil sands, the contested development of national pipelines, or environmental spills and other catastrophes, oil production is a contentious issue. However, the reality is that this resource is going to be developed. The development and expansion of this industry in the province is a great thing, and our publication is working to promote and encourage conversation around any issues.

Corporate social responsibility is an important part of this conversation. It is well known that Calgary is the corporate hub of oil and gas in the country, but as Saskatchewan expands its market share in this commodity there should be a migration east by corporate entities. The reason for this is two-fold: there should be the obvious desire to have close proximity and observation of one’s sector, and large corporations need to feel responsibility to profit margins and community investment. The demand for corporations to be socially responsible is simply a reality in the world we live in, and Saskatchewan is a region where the expectations are high. It has been mentioned that it is not business as usual in Saskatchewan. This may seem threatening, but really it is a testament to our strong communities and their expectations for fair business practice. Once trust is established, the rewards are numerous. Companies and corporations benefit from better recruitment, employee retention, risk management, and what one may call a communal license to operate. Opponents may argue that corporate involvement and investment does not benefit the financial bottom line, but much evidence points to the contrary. Saskatchewan is currently the second largest oil-producing province in Canada with approximately 14 per cent of all crude oil production. Figures from 2011 indicate sales of $12.7 billion with $1.7 billion coming back to the province in royalties and bonus bids. There is an estimated 33,200 person-years of direct and indirect employment associated with our upstream oil and gas industry alone. This kind of economic growth brings with it strains on infrastructure and community planning. Both inside and

outside of oil-producing communities there is concern regarding the management of such lucrative sectors. How does a community effectively support an influx of transient workers? How does it cope with the strain on its roadways and utilities? Can it be expected that small communities such as Estevan, Weyburn, Swift Current or Kindersley handle the incredible planning strains associated with organizing an efficient infrastructure that will benefit not only the industry but also the community? These are areas of concern, and better involvement from corporations as well as government needs to happen. The opportunity is there to take the initiative to establish the most optimal of functioning oil sectors. It is wise to look to our neighbours to the south and west to consider their successes and failures while developing their oil and gas sectors. An obvious example of success is the twinned highway connecting Alberta to the United States. Another example is the promotion of Alberta’s eco-tourism industry. A major issue in Saskatchewan is that there is a lack of recreational activities. How do companies here attract employees when Alberta’s cities and their recreational venues are far more appealing? Why is there not a large-scale event complex like the West Edmonton Mall being planned for Regina? Why are our parks not being developed to help entice tourism to the province? Why are there so few direct flights in and out of the province? Our current situation can be easily remedied; we live in a great province and we need to promote it better. It is answering the simple question about why people choose one place over another to live and work.

example of a community overwhelmed by the spin-off effects of an oil boom. Proactive thinking can alleviate many of these issues. How do you provide communities with all the amenities to ensure a safe and functioning community? The answers are complex and certainly not obvious. Like infrastructure and community planning issues, this problem also deserves thought and consideration to help prevent its potentially hazardous consequences. In the issues ahead, we will continue to engage in discussing the Saskatchewan oil sector and its development into the future. Speaking at the Petroleum Safety Conference in Banff, Rex Murphy, CBC commentator, made some very endearing comments to the sector and its positive impacts on the country as a whole. He pointed out how the oil sector has been providing gainful employment to Maritimers since the collapse of their traditional fisheries sector. Mr. Murphy’s words address something most Canadians would hold sacred: the aid and assistance of their countrymen in need. They also point to the importance of learning from our mistakes — treating our natural resources with respect and harvesting them smartly and efficiently. The oil and gas industry in Saskatchewan holds incredible potential, and it is certainly an exciting time to be in the province. While we enjoy this prosperity, it is important to remember that good planning and vision ensure the continued success of the sector and the province.

Public safety in the oil and gas industry is another concern. The rising crime rates in Williston, North Dakota have garnered international media attention. Violent crime rates for the small community back in 1999 were at very low levels (37.5); fast-forward to 2011, and the rates have already surpassed the national average (241.1). Crime, sex offences and property damage are all weighing heavily on this community, and it all adds up to a solid

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Professionally We Serve,

PERSONALLY WE CARE BY ALYSSA RUDYCK PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

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OPPOSITE BACK L–R Bailey Enfield, Cale Louden, Carrie Englot FRONT L–R Rosanne Pachiorka, Sylvia Fauth

here is always a risk when it comes to working in the oil field. That is why it is essential to be prepared for everything, and ensure that your employees are equipped with the tools they need to operate as safely as possible. Flyin E Medical helps companies ensure that every base is covered when it comes to safety, providing them with the proper training, testing and on-site medical assistance to run their operation as smoothly and safely as possible. “I’m very proud of my company, and what we stand for,” says Flyin E Medical

owner Carrie Englot. “I saw a real need for professional services in the field, and knew that our company could provide that.” Flyin E Medical has an impressive list of services and supplies. They provide licensed medical professionals, supply medical units and air on-site, first aid and EMR training courses, screen for drug and alcohol, as well as audiometric, quanitive fit and pulmonary lung testing. They also offer a pre-employment program with fit-for-duty and mobility testing. As a convenience to their clients, all of Flyin E Medical’s services are mobile, which

means that if you can’t come to them, they will come to you. “When you come to us, you’ve pretty much got every angle covered for safety,” says Englot, who personally specializes in helping companies develop their COR, which is a certificate of recognition program, and reinitiate industry standards of safety back into their company. According to Englot, a large part of what allows Flyin E Medical to excel in so many different areas is teamwork, and the collective expertise of her team. Coming from a variety of professional

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backgrounds, they are a group of professional, qualified workers who are passionate about health and safety. As each member of the team has specific qualifications, they are each able to focus on a specific division of the company. “We all work together. We all like to see one another do well,” says Englot. What has really set Flyin E Medical apart from other companies is their professional decorum out in the field. Englot considers professionalism to be a top priority of Flyin E Medical and, along with receiving compliments on her employee’s professionalism, makes a point of always keeping connected, as she believes that communication is a key component to safety and success. As well as providing oil and gas companies with the tools they need to operate safely, Flyin E Medical also takes care of health and safety around their community. Understanding the importance of implementing proper safety training in any industry, Flyin E Medical works with businesses such as restaurants, racetracks, electrical shops, and commercial and industrial contractors, to name a few, and looks out for the youth in their community by providing their medical services during school sporting events. If you think that Flyin E Medical might be the right choice to bring safety back into your company, give them a call. They are happy to answer any questions that you have for them, and are dedicated to finding an answer to any question that they might not already know.

Flyin E Medical 306.485.8688 fly_e@hotmail.com flyinemedicalltd.com

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2014 COURSE DATES First Aid Course Dates:

H2S Courses:

• • • • •

January 16 & 17 February 20 & 21 March 6 & 7 – 20 & 21 April 3 & 4 – 15 & 16 May 1 & 2

Fall Arrest: • January 6

January 14 February 14 March 11 April 15 May 13

For more information contact: 306.340.0444

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

BEST PLACES TO WORK

RECRUITMENT AND RETAINING Some of the Best Employer Practices BY MICHELLE HATZEL

n 2013, Randstad, a global human resource staffing and recruitment service, identified the top five most attractive components of employment for job-hunting Canadians as: salary, work atmosphere, job security, work-life balance and convenient location. There are several ways in which a business can offer incentives for recruiting and retaining personnel. According to Globe and Mail’s Top 100 Employers series, bonus payments and profit sharing help employers increase base salary offers and keep quality staff. Progressive compensation packages include additional health care benefits, phased-in retirement

plans, compassionate leave, employerpaid maternity and parental leave and wellness plans.

such as; job sharing, telecommuting, shortened and compressed work week options and paid days off.

Some of the best employers promote community involvement and volunteerism — even paid volunteered days off from work. They make environmental initiatives that can extend to paper-free processes and pay their staff’s city transit passes. Actively promoting employment equity also helps foster well-being and inclusion of personnel — an important factor for creating a healthy workplace atmosphere.

Attending to the on-going support, mentoring, training and education of personnel offers mutual benefit to employees and employers alike. Creating a skilled team of professionals leads to better representation of themselves and the business for which they work.

In helping employees achieve work-life balance, progressive employers may offer flexible work options when possible,

Some of the best employers in Saskatchewan today are those that invest in the development and well-being of their staff, ensuring that they have the right people and the human resources to meet the demands of their business.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

BEST PLACES TO WORK

Something 1 of 1

CARSON ENERGY SERVICES PROMISES ITS CLIENTELE HIGH QUALITY Competitively priced services to suit client needs, with a safe reliable approach • Pipeline Construction

• General Maintenance & Service Crews

• Facility Construction • Shop Fabrication – Pressure Components

• Lease Building • Safety Sales & Service

• Mobile Welding Rigs

Lloydminster, AB

Estevan, SK

Oxbow, SK

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Wainwright, AB

Halbrite, SK

Regina, SK

White City, SK

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Virden, MB

Carlyle, SK

Lampman, SK

RECRUITMENT INQUIRIES TOLL FREE: 1-866-GO-FLINT or www.flintenergy.com/careers 106

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[ Power to grow ] to grow ] Career[ Power opportunities

C L O SCareer E Topportunities O HOME CLOSE TO HOME

The future is unfolding at SaskPower’s Boundary Dam The future is unfolding at SaskPower’s Boundary Dam Power Station. For years it has produced nearly one-third of Power Station. For years it has produced nearly one-third of Saskatchewan’s electricity supply. Now we’re getting ready Saskatchewan’s electricity supply. Now we’re getting ready to launch the largest commercial carbon capture and storage to launch the largest commercial carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility in the in world. (CCS) facility the world. With the expansion, SaskPower needs newnew workers in Estevan With the expansion, SaskPower needs workers in Estevan at bothatour Boundary Dam and Power Stations: steam both our Boundary DamShand and Shand Power Stations: steam operators, instrument technicians, power engineers, station station operators, instrument technicians, power engineers,

industrial mechanics, electricians, electronic technicians industrial mechanics, electricians, electronic technicians and lab technicians.These are permanent full-time jobs with and lab technicians.These are permanent full-time jobs with competitive salaries and benefits, and great opportunities for competitive salaries and benefits, and great opportunities for training and advancement. training and advancement. Want closetotohome? home?For For more information Wantan anexciting exciting career career close more information and pleasevisit visitsaskpower.com/careers, saskpower.com/careers, andtotoapply applyonline, online, please ororvisit LinkedInand andTwitter. Twitter. visitus uson onFacebook, Facebook, LinkedIn

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

BEST PLACES TO WORK

SaSkPower’S Boundary dam Power Station: Converting Coal, Capturing Carbon and Creating Careers BY Tonya LamberT PhOTOS suppLied by saskpower

ince its inception in 1959, SaskPower’s Boundary Dam Power Station has been improving the quality of life for the people of the province. Located near Estevan, the station has grown steadily over the years – starting with a 62 MW unit in 1959, adding two 139 MW units in 1970 and another in 1973 and then a 273 MW

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unit in 1978 – to the point where today it provides 30 per cent of the province’s energy supply. “SaskPower and Boundary Dam have a long, proud history of generating power for the province,” says plant director Tim Schuster. Soon, the plant will be expanding once more. Scheduled to open in April 2014,

Carbon Capture is a $1.4 billion project undertaken by SaskPower to greatly reduce the emissions produced by the coal-fired station. Carbon Capture is a facility that will operate in conjunction with Boundary Dam. It will take the flue gas from Unit 3 and extract the sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). The company estimates that a

million tonnes of CO2 will be captured and prevented from escaping into the atmosphere each year. The technology for removing SO2 from flue gas has been around for decades. It is the extraction of the CO2 that is new and exciting. The CO2 will be removed and changed into its liquid form to be sold to oil companies for use in enhanced oil recovery processes or stored in deep underground saline formations. Never before has this technology been used on such a vast scale. Scientists and engineers from all over the world have been traveling to Estevan to watch the progress on the plant’s construction. “It is such an exciting time to be here and to be a part of this,” exclaims Schuster. The construction of Carbon Capture has created many jobs in the area, and when the plant is in full operation it will create even more. According to Scott Dryden, production specialist with Carbon Capture, the plant will employ approximately 30 operators, 16 maintenance personnel and four lab staff members. Currently, the plant is looking to hire 4th class power engineers to work in the plant when it opens. “It is a great way to get your foot in the door with the company,” says Dryden. “I started out as a 4th class power engineer 22 years ago and I have worked my way up through the ranks with additional training and support from the company.”

Tim Schuster, Senior Director of Boundary Dam Power Station.

SaskPower is known for the loyalty of its employees. Plant director Tim Schuster has been with SaskPower for 14 years, having started work with the company at the Shand Power Station, also near Estevan. Many of the workers at Boundary Dam have been with the company for many years, with a significant group having 25 to 35 years of service with the company. These workers will be retiring over the next few years and will need to be replaced. Boundary Dam is looking to hire a variety of workers, including industrial

mechanics, electricians, electronic technicians and lab technicians, but the primary focus is on all classes of steam station operators and also instrument technicians. If you are looking to be part of a cutting-edge company, the Recruitment team for SaskPower would love to hear from you. For more information and to apply online, please visit saskpower.com/careers, or make a connection on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

BEST PLACES TO WORK

SHERRITT COAL: Fuelling the Heart of the Community

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herritt Coal has been described by employees as the company that helps keep the lights on.

The company’s Boundary Dam mine, located 15 km southeast of Estevan, supplies SaskPower with most of the coal needed to power the Boundary Dam and Shand Generating Stations. But fuel for power is not Sherritt Coal’s only service. The company helps fuel the Saskatchewan economy by producing activated carbon and char for export from its Bienfait mine and plant operations located 15 km east of Estevan. Sherritt Coal’s involvement locally doesn’t stop at fuelling the basics of modern life. It’s also about fuelling the hopes and aspirations of the community through the contributions of the 400 people employed with the company in the Estevan area. “Each year, our employees step up to help the Estevan United Way campaign and we match their contributions dollar for dollar,” says Sean McCaughan, senior vice president, Sherritt Coal. “We also support many children’s activities and minor sports programs to help promote active lifestyles while teaching children important life skills.” Fuelling sustainable communities is part of fostering a rewarding workplace where people are given the opportunity to grow their skills and take on new challenges.

“We want our skilled employees to feel like they are part of something unique and contribute to a great place to work for all employees,” said McCaughan. “We give employees a say in how they want their careers to develop and recognize quality work right away.” Employee safety is paramount at Sherritt Coal. The company partners with the United Mine Workers of America to prevent injuries, fatalities and workrelated illnesses. “We also look out for the public’s safety around our mines and plants,” said McCaughan. “We regularly review work conditions and practices and speak with residents to ensure that what we do dayto-day keeps people safe.” As well, a healthy environment that provides for future generations is a top priority. Sherritt Coal reclaims mined areas, transforming them back into prairie land to help sustain Saskatchewan’s unique and beautiful landscape. “In addition to ‘keeping the lights on’,” said McCaughan, “we are also about building careers, fuelling prosperity, and helping communities flourish. We look after the livelihood of our employees, and the livelihood of the land. We are about fuelling the heart of the community.” Sherritt Coal 306.634.7251 sherritt.com

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BEST PLACES TO WORK

ARC RESOURCES: WHERE EMPLOYEES MATTER BY APOLLINE LUCYK

hat sets ARC Resources apart from its competitors is the strength of its culture and how it treats its employees. Speaking with ARC’s employees, it is evident that they cannot say enough about the positive working environment. “Working for ARC is being a part of a family and a team where people care about each other and help out their fellow coworkers,” comments Jordan Oliver, lead operator in Oungre and Bromhead. “Employees are treated with fairness and respect.”

PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

ARC is one of Canada’s leading oil and gas producers, employing approximately 560 people and producing nearly 95,000 boe per day from its operations across Western Canada. The company, headquartered in Calgary, was founded in 1996 and first entered the southeast Saskatchewan area in 1997. ARC’s Estevan field office is the central hub for the company’s southeast Saskatchewan and southwest Manitoba operations. The area is an important part of ARC’s operations, producing approximately 12,000 boe per day of high quality and

high netback oil. In 2014, capital plans for the area include a $130 million investment to drill roughly 50 new wells. ARC has many programs in place to help support the needs of its employees such as flexible work hours, competitive compensation, formal mentorship and career advancement opportunities. Trevor Sealy, superintendent of the southeast Saskatchewan and southwest Manitoba region explains, “Having a family myself, I know how important it is to make it to the baseball or hockey game. As an employer

ABOVE (Back row)Lorna Nelson, Don Hanna, Mary Lawrence, Anwar Alabbas, Dawn Hengen, Rob Klassen, Jackie Toms, Bill Bernie, Trevor Sealy (Sitting) Kevin Paton, Mark Fitzpatrick, Colin Tajcnar

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we do our best to adjust schedules to make it possible for our people to deliver on their family commitments as well as their work commitments.” Sealy’s comment is echoed by office coordinator Jackie Toms: “Being a mother of a child with special needs, I have to attend many doctor appointments. ARC is very supportive, and makes it as easy as possible to arrange my schedule so I can make it to the appointments. I am very grateful to work with such a supportive staff!” Being a strong member of the community is also a priority at ARC. This includes active community giving through volunteerism and monetary support. In the past three years, ARC has given more than $220,000 to support organizations in Estevan and the surrounding area. Myron Stadnyk, ARC’s president and chief executive officer, explains, “A culture

of caring is deeply rooted at ARC. We understand there is a direct relationship between the health of our communities and the success of our business, and therefore it is important to us to positively contribute to the communities where we live and work.” In addition to supporting its communities, ARC is focused on environmental and health and safety performance. ARC targets zero lost-time incidents amongst employees and contractors. Employees receive regular safety training and the company has worked hard to facilitate open communication and safety improvement dialogue. In fact, open communication is a key part of ARC’s culture, Sealy explains, “ARC conducts a company-wide survey each year where employees can provide feedback on the company. Management takes the feedback

seriously and implements change based on what employees at every level are saying.” The wider industry has also recognized ARC’s leadership in environmental performance. In 2013, ARC received a Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) Award for the low emissions design of its Dawson Gas Plant in northeast British Columbia, and was ranked number 1 in the CDP’s (Carbon Disclosure Project) Canadian Leadership Index, which evaluates Canada’s top 200 largest companies on climate change disclosure and policies.

Working with ARC As ARC continues to expand its operations in Estevan and the surrounding area, the company is always on the lookout for great new people to join

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their team. Sealy shares, “We have many opportunities that arise at ARC in the southeast Saskatchewan and Manitoba district in roles such as battery operator, optimization engineer and technician, foreman, safety advisor and office administrator. If you have a great positive personality and work very well in a team environment, then maybe ARC is a fit for you.” Geordan Workman, field operator in Estevan North, who has worked for other companies in the area, explains what sets ARC apart for him, “ARC has shown a very strong commitment to me and it is the same with all of its employees. I have had the opportunity to take training courses, which have helped with my own career learning and development.”

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Workman adds, “Although ARC is the largest company I have worked for, they are still very active in the community. It is the culture that really sets them apart.” ARC provides its employees with the opportunity to build a meaningful and rewarding career while staying close to home and working with a great team. As Oliver says, “With all the opportunities that present themselves in today’s oilfield industry, ARC is definitely the place to be for a fulfilling career in a top-grade oil and gas company.” ARC Resources Ltd. 461 Devonian Street, Estevan 306.637.3100 www.arcresources.com

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or residents of small cities such as Weyburn and Estevan, it can be tempting to head to larger urban centres to shop. The notion of a bigger selection and lower prices can lure people to spend their dollars in places like Regina or Minot, despite the driving distance and fuel costs. But shopping locally offers its own benefits â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for both residents and the communities as a whole.

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Michel Cyrenne, executive director of Estevan’s Chamber of Commerce, says that in the past some residents felt the city lacked a strong selection of clothing stores, but that has changed. “We’ve expanded in clothing retail and other boutique shops with home decor and gift items,” says Cyrenne. While restaurant options used to be limited, the city now features a number of establishments for dining out. Cyrenne says that supporting local businesses ensures the stores and eateries will be able to stay open in the long term. Shopping close to home can also offer an experience that’s more personal than what you might find in larger locations. Chantal Brown, owner/manager of The Void, a family-run shop in Weyburn that features baby goods, fashion and home decor, says they offer a one-on-one service, which isn’t always available in larger stores. “When someone comes in, we pay more attention and can help you out with what you’re looking for,” says Brown. Another advantage? The shop stocks mostly just one or two of their specialty items, so you’re often the only person in Weyburn who will own what

you buy there. Brown says local business owners often check in with each other to ensure they’re not stocking the same products, giving shoppers more variety.

automotive glass installation done locally is the convenience. “It takes a couple hours to change a windshield,” says Shier. “I can deliver it to your house.”

Don Kraft, general manager of Weyburn Co-op, emphasizes that when you shop locally, you’re more than just a face to the people serving you. “The business owners get to know you and call you by name,” says Kraft. Regarding the price difference between local shopping and box stores in larger cities, Kraft points out that 50 per cent of Co-p’s food sales are sold on promotion, and that promotion pricing matches or beats the prices of a big box store in Regina. While some savings are available by shopping out of town, once the cost of fuel is factored in, they may not be worth the trip.

Along with offering personal service, varied selection, competitive pricing and convenience, businesses in both Weyburn and Estevan play a strong role in supporting minor sports and community events. “There’s not a jersey in the city that doesn’t have a business name on it,” says Cyrenne. “The businesses all get involved in community events, from building a new arena to a nursing home. They give money and volunteer time.” Supporting these stores means you’re supporting the other aspects that make your city a great place to live.

In line with the age-old rule of supply and demand, the more that people shop locally, the more local businesses will thrive, enabling them to increase the range of products and services they offer. “If you can find out what your customers need, you can carry it,” says Eric Shier, owner of Dun Rite Glass in Estevan. Shier adds that a benefit of having a service like

Whether you need to stock up on groceries, buy a gift for a friend, or update your wardrobe, the shops in Weyburn and Estevan welcome you. As Don Kraft points out, shopping locally is essential for community development. “If you want to see the city continue to grow, prosper and expand its recreational facilities, it needs to be supported by the people,” says Kraft.

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SHOP LOCAL

SHOPPING LOCAL AT THE CO-OP: Weyburn’s Way Since 1929 BY REBECCA SCHNEIDEREIT

s a business, its scope is impressive: locations offer groceries and medicine, fashion and recreational equipment, supplies for home and the road. Yet the Weyburn Coop is more than a collection of stores. It’s a community institution that’s fostered local growth since 1929. Nowadays, Weyburn residents continue to support the Co-op — a local enterprise that supports them back. “We are locally owned, locally controlled,” says Don Kraft, Co-op general manager.

“We return our profits to our members.” Membership can be inexpensively acquired in-store: thereafter, each Coop member (there are around 9,000) receives annual “cash-back” on purchases. “Cash-back to the membership last year exceeded three million dollars.” Each Co-op branch seeks to achieve an exceptional customer experience that’s both professional and down-to-earth. That means offering quality merchandise — the Co-op boasts Weyburn’s sole “scratch” bakery. It means serving customers’

convenience through initiatives like personal delivery. It also means maintaining physical premises that are second to none. “We continually upgrade to ensure we have the most state-of-theart, modern facilities in Saskatchewan,” says Jerry Ponto, Co-op member relations manager. The Co-op’s new “touchless car wash” on 1st Avenue is one example of such innovation. The Co-op constantly shares its success with its community. Sometimes, giving back occurs right in the store, as with

L-R Sponsors gather for 2014 WEYBEX kick-off, Vema Oneil, Co-op General manager Don Kraft, Adam Knight, Jeff Chessal, Twyla Walkeden

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the Kids Club for Weyburn’s youngest residents; or at the ‘community events deck,’ where local groups — bolstered by foods provided courtesy of the Co-op — stage fundraisers. “We’ve rolled over $140,000 back into community groups through that venue.” But the Co-op also reaches beyond its doors to help Weyburn. At the time of writing, the Weyburn & District Hospital Foundation is among the most recent beneficiaries of the Co-op’s generosity. “The Weyburn Co-op has graciously agreed to match members’ donations towards that project,” says Kraft. The Co-op is also patron sponsor at this year’s WEYBEX Awards. “This’ll be our sixth one,” Kraft adds. “We’ve been involved from the start.” A frequent Coop cause is Weyburn’s youth; they’ve supported neighbourhood daycares, minor sports and organizations such as Tatagwa Kidz Kare.

“

Weyburn residents who shop locally allow local businesses to support non-profit and charitable organizations, including the arts, culture and recreation for the youth of our community. This lets us ‘move ahead by giving back.’ We want to thank our membership and our customers for their patronage and support. —Jerry Ponto

”

The Co-op’s past legacy of charitable donations is equally lavish. “When the level four care home was built, Weyburn Co-op donated $50,000. We donated to the agricultural society: $50,000 for a new grandstand. We invested in excess of $12,000 when the library was rebuilt. Those are some major ones, but we support, probably, about 50 other charities locally. Last year, our local donations were $148,000.” Given the Co-op’s integral community role, it’s natural that support for the business crosses generations. “Some former Kids’ Club members are now cashiers,” says Ponto. “People sit on our board of directors whose parents — and grandparents — did too.” Shopping local has always been the cornerstone of the local business community. Weyburn Co-op appreciates local support as it allows them to continue to meet the needs of customers with service, selection and convenience. Weyburn Co-op: Your Community Builder 215 2nd Street, Weyburn 306.848.3677 weyburncoop.com TOP L-R F.C.C. Drive Away Hunger, Jill Becker, Jerry Ponto, Kiteen Mainil MIDDLE Co-op staff and Knights of Columbus gather at United Way Communithon dinner

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S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

SHOP LOCAL

Being a small boutique gives us the luxury of taking time to be attentive to our customers’ needs. We help choose clothing suited to personal style and complimentary to body type. To create individual looks, we only bring in 2 or 3 pieces per style, which allows us to carry a greater variety. We carry popular lines such as Frank Lyman, Mexx, Yoga Jeans, NYDJ, Black Orchid, including fashionable boots/shoes ... Miz Mooz is a line you will love! A large selection of GUESS purses are displayed around the store, you may find the same style of purse but never the same colour, just as with our jewellery. Myka jewellery, designed in Vancouver, is full of bling! Anne-Marie Changon’s collection, designed in Quebec, is funky and fun. Lucy the First jewellery pieces create a bold statement. We also carry scarves and leggings to compliment different outfits. For The Naked Bee hand lotions, Yankee candles and more accessories visit our website www.evelynlane.com.

Experience the joy in creating the best version of yourself at Evelyn Lane Ladies’ Wear.

219 Railway Avenue | Weyburn, SK | 306.842.5263 | 120

PHOTOS by Shambhavi Kalra

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EXPERTAdvice Take Advantage of Child-Related Tax Credits $5,782 in 2013; this is a tax savings of about $636 for each child 18 or under who is living with you at the end of the year. Unlike the federal claim, this must be claimed by the spouse with the lower income; any unused amount can be transferred to the higher-income spouse.

H&R Block 1134 4th Street Estevan, Sask. S4A 0W7 Phone: 306.634.6737 www.hrblock.ca

he cost of raising children seems to rise constantly, but there are deductions and credits parents can claim at tax time to help offset some expenses. The key is to make sure you are taking advantage of all available credits and deductions. Parents often ask which one should claim the federal amount for children. If you are both earning income and can claim the full amount of the credit, either can claim. The amount for children younger than 18 is $2,234 for each child for 2013 — about $335 in tax savings. The Saskatchewan Amount for Dependent Children allows you to claim

It is also the lower-income spouse who must claim childcare expenses. The only exceptions are for periods where the lower-income spouse is in school, unable to look after the children due to a mental or physical infirmity, or is in jail. Remember that summer camps and other activities, such as nursery school, may qualify as a childcare expense. Like an RRSP contribution, childcare expenses lower your taxable income, so the savings can add up. Keep your receipts, because this claim is commonly reviewed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The $500 Children’s Arts Tax Credit allows parents to reduce their federal tax by claiming registration fees for a variety of artistic or cultural programs. It could include Scouts, Girl Guides, ballet lessons, pottery classes, art classes, tutoring or native dance lessons. The organization should provide a detailed receipt for tax purposes.

The Saskatchewan Active Families Benefit is similar to the above two credits in the type of activity that qualifies, but this credit actually refunds you up to $150 per child for fees paid during the year. One parent makes the claim for all the activity fees paid for all the children in the family. Remember that if you have a child six or younger, you receive $100 per month for the Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB). This money is taxable and must be reported on the tax return of the spouse with the lower net income. If you are single, you have the option of designating it as your child’s income. Parents receiving the Canada Child Tax Benefit (CCTB) do not report it on the tax return, but both parents must file by April 30 to keep receiving the benefit. Tax savings will never cover all your expenses, but these extra dollars can help with a few of the costs that come with raising children.

The Children’s Fitness Tax Credit is similar to the Arts Credit. It applies to federal tax, and parents can claim up to $500 per child in registration fees for activities that promote fitness and meet the CRA guidelines. For both the Arts and Fitness Tax Credits, the amount to claim is the amount paid in the year. If you paid for a qualifying fitness program in October 2013 that started in January 2014, you need to claim the receipt on your 2013 tax return. This translates into a tax savings of up to $75 per child per year.

This article provides only an overview of the regulations in force at the date of publication, and no action should be taken without consulting the detailed legislation or seeking professional advice. Therefore, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the material contained in this bulletin can be accepted by H&R Block Canada, Inc.

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KEEPING BUSINESSES CLEAN AND RUNNING BY TRINA ANNAND PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

o matter what business you’re in, it’s important to put your best foot forward. Keeping an office or workspace clean is the best way to make a great first impression with prospective clients, and create a happy and healthy working environment for staff. At Just Spiffy Cleaning Limited, the experienced team understands the importance of a clean office, and has a bag of tricks to make a space spotless. After decades in the cleaning industry, Marie Bell and husband Alfred Hamrin

realized there was a growing need for a different kind of cleaning service. Creating a business that focuses not only on the job, but the individual client and their needs, became their priority. “We want to ensure that our clients can trust in us to do good work and have their best interests at heart. We’re not a fly by night company, we have the experience to back up our work,” notes Bell. By providing hands-on personalized service, inspections and weekly checkins with clients, Bell and Hamrin ensure that their clients get the best possible

service. Specializing in office and rig shack cleaning, Just Spiffy serves key industries in Estevan and surrounding areas, ensuring that the community keeps moving. With a staff of 15, Just Spiffy can take on projects big and small, with the option for additional staff as needed. They provide a friendly approach to the everyday needs of businesses. The company buys all their products locally and believes strongly in environmentally friendly supplies. “Green cleaning products are important not only

ABOVE L-R Alfie Hamrin, Cam Biette, Sheri Thompson, Marie Bell

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for our staff, but clients as well; there are a lot of chemical sensitivities these days. We pride ourselves on keeping everyone safe and healthy,” remarks Bell. The safety minded approach at Just Spiffy is also echoed in their buddy system for cleaning, where staff members team up to ensure a safe workplace for all — whether it’s an office building in the heart of downtown, or a rig shack on the outskirts. By providing a wide variety of options from general and spring cleaning, to stripping and waxing floors, Just Spiffy can handle all their clients’ commercial cleaning needs. “We simply do

good work. It’s in our name, we truly make things spiffy. A business just works better when everything is neat and tidy, it definitely increases our clients’ productivity and overall success,” says Bell. From initial consultation to final checkups, Bell and her team ensure that clients know how important they are. “If it were not for local business, we would not exist. We are truly grateful for the community support we receive every day,” notes Bell. Just Spiffy Cleaning Ltd. 104B Perkins, Estevan 306.421.6440

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THE

SNOW

BIKE:

MAKING NEW TRACKS BY Trina annand PHOTOS deMo PhoTograPhy

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s the weather turns colder and the snow begins to fly, many Canadians like to partake in winter motorsports. Snowmobiling has always been a popular winter pastime, but there is now a new kid in town. The “snow bike” combines the best of winter motorsports fun, but with the convenience and ease of a dirt bike. Shawn Luhning is a fan of motorsports in all seasons, but became a snow bike dealer after a trip to Idaho. “Five years ago, I worked with Timbersled to modify my snowmobile. When I got to their facility, I saw the snow bike for the first time. I ended up buying both of their prototypes. Both were amazing! The snow bike was easy to ride almost immediately and was so much fun for both prairie and mountain riding.” These days, snow bikes are becoming widely available and even have their own sanctioned racing circuit in Idaho. But Canadians need look no further than Saskatoon for this exciting product. Luhning was so taken by the snow bike that he opened the first Canadian branch of Mountain Top Timbersled products. In a province where dirt biking and racing are so popular, snow bikes are the perfect choice because they don’t require a separate machine for winter riding — the dirt bike is an all-season vehicle. A conversion kit and two hours later, a dirt bike becomes a snow bike. The kit can fit on any bike with a 250cc engine or larger. Timbersled will be testing a kid’s kit this winter with hopes that it will be on the market by the end of 2014. In the meantime, however, the 2013 Mountain Horse kit features a pivoting front arm that allows riders an eight-degree curve for better trail riding, while the newly-designed 10-inch front ski has a center keel that allows

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for greater floatation and ensures less darting on prairie terrain. For those who desire a sleeker look, the kit also features flat black side panels. The Mountain Horse kit is the first snow bike kit designed for mountain riding and has created quite a stir among outdoor enthusiasts, allowing them to zigzag across mountainous terrain with ease with a patent pending design. It’s so versatile, in fact, that it has been used for not only play, but for racing and by mountain rescue teams. Snow bikes can be found in the snowy mountains and fields of North America, as well as the mountains of Iceland, Sweden, Japan, Russia and Norway. There’s an international fan following, says Luhning. Professional American racer Derick Driggs has been a dirt biker his whole life and was experimenting with homemade snow and ice riding techniques until he discovered the Mountain Horse snow bike kit. “I was introduced to the Mountain Horse and had the chance to help develop the new machine. After two minutes on the kit, I was sold. It manages in deeper snow and works on the same principals as a snowmobile. I never thought I would like anything more than dirt biking,” remarks Driggs. The most unique part of a snow bike is that riders can take it on narrow mountain trails that they would never consider taking a snowmobile, says Luhning. The machine is equally at home riding across the prairies or though the mountains. With their unique snowmobileinspired design, snow bikes balance themselves on a front ski and a slim rear track, allowing smaller riders to handle a larger bike with ease. Snow biking is something the whole family can enjoy together, says Luhning. Because it’s a lighter machine, parents are able to worry less about their kids getting stuck on a trail with a heavy machine. “My whole family rides snow bikes; my wife and two sons who are 13 and 15. Even my 5 year old daughter can ride as a passenger. Now we can all be out here in Saskatchewan for a day of riding or we can go out to the mountains to ride in the powder,” notes Luhning. “With nearly 100 kits sold, it’s clear the local snow bike market is picking up,” says Luhning. “This is partially due to the easy learning curve. Anyone can learn how to ride a snow bike in a very short amount of time!” On that note, those wishing to try before they buy are encouraged to contact the company for a demo ride at www.timbersled.ca.

Shawn and Shelly Luhning with their children

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Experienced Real Estate Professionals Residential, Farm, Commercial and Business

Melanie Loreth

Ajit Matharu, Homelife Crawford Realty 306.581.3130 | AjitRegina@gmail.com Charmaine Luscombe, B.A, B.Ed Homelife Prairie Realty 306.535.3948 | CharmaineRegina@gmail.com www.CharmaineRealty.com

www.weyburnlistings.com mlsignature@hotmail.ca Call or text

306.861.1610 parkland

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Broadway Park Realty century21yorkton.ca L–R Melanie Loreth, Lyle Leonard,Crystal Skolney, Mark Robinson, Alvena Dubnyk, Chad McCannell, Winston Bailey

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Adding the Personal TouchSaskatchewan’s Own FineLifestyles Subscriptions Simply email wayne@finelifestyles.ca to inquire about to Properties TERRY KORCHINSKI C: 795-7799

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Laurie Krueger, Mortgage Advisor #315963

Don’t you deserve the best mortgage rate?

Leslie, Andy, Tara, Anita

“Where Houses Become Homes…”

www.lauriekrueger.com lauriekrueger@sasktel.net C: 306.541.8002

Royal LePage Signature 160 3rd Street, Weyburn www.weyburnhomes.ca

306.842.2202

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Everything You Need for OH&S Testing

Men and Women Approved

Drug and alcohol testing, SGI medicals, audio testing, Mask Fit, Spirometry, RN medicals, US DOT services and more.

Conveniently serving you in: Estevan, Oxbow, Carnduff, Moosomin and Carlyle. Treating all your hair removal needs, age spots, brown spots and facial veins.

S.E. Options Consulting 1318 B 3rd Street, Estevan | 306.634.9079 www.optionsconsulting.ca

Sleek Appearance Laser Hair Removal & Skin Rejuvenation 306.485.7189 | contact@sleekappearance.com www.sleekappearance.com

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Something 1 of 1 Experience the Custom Touch

Get a Good Thing Growing

J & C Custom Cabinets Ltd. 1831 MacKay St Regina | 306.585.2223 jccabinets@sasktel.net

Prarie Greenhouses Two miles north of Weyburn on 16th Street | 306.842.2750 www.prairiegreenhouse.com |

Home Improvement Solutions

Money isn’t all you’re Saving

Carlyle Home Hardware 110 Railway Ave East | 306.453.2242 www.homehardware.ca

EnviroFoam Insulation 1.877.WHY.FOAM | 306.543.8111 lonny.forrester@envirofoaminsulation.com | www.envirofoaminsulation.com

The Clear Business Solution

H&R Block: The Income Tax People

We are committed to providing the best custom quality, design and service to our customers.

Carlyle Home Hardware offers everything you need for your home. Homeowners helping homeowners with expert advice.

We’re taking orders for trees and shrubs for spring 2014! Call Bill Kievits at 306.891.6749. Looking forward to seeing all our wonderful customers in April, 2014!

Serving southern Saskatchewan with great service and the best insulation in the industry. Call us today to discover how we can keep you warm.

Regina’s largest glass shop, serving southern Saskatchewan for over 30 years. Offering glass services and products for windows and doors, whether commercial, residential or auto.

We prepare all types of tax returns-personal, business, farm, deceased and small corporations. We make taxes painless.

Glacier Glass 410 Quebec Street, Regina | 306.545.3990 www.glacierglass.com

Fay Harris, Franchise Owner | H&R Block 1134 4th Street, Estevan | 306.634.6737 | f: 306.634.3855 www.hrblock.ca | hrbestevan@sasktel.net

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Products for Your Whole House

Your Member of Parliament

Audio Video Unlimited 2-501 Nesbitt Drive, Estevan | 306.634.8813 www.avu.ca

Ed Komarnicki, MP 308-1133 4th Street, Estevan | 306.634.3000 | 1.866.249.4697 2-405 Souris Avenue, Weyburn | 306.842.9000

Beyond the Usual

You Might Find Anything

Blunt Expressions 937 Eva Street, Estevan 306.637.2586

For the Best Auto Care

Your Money Just Got Smarter

Dun Rite Glass 1302 4th Street, Estevan | 306.634.6093 dunriteglass@gmail.com

Affinity Credit Union 833 4th Street, Estevan | 306.636.7700 www.affinitycu.ca

Audio Video Unlimited (AVU) offers appliances, bedding, electronics, furniture, home automation, SaskTel products and more. Our delivery and installation teams take care of everything

BMX, motocross, skateboards; clothing and shoes for the active family Volcom, Nixon, DC, Ten Tree, RDS, LRG, Saxx, Fox, Oakley and more.

Auto glass installation, cracked or chipped windshield repairs, cleaning and detailing, and window tinting services. Insurance claims and walk-ins are always welcome. Shuttle services provided.

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Ed Komarnicki, your Souris-Moose Mountain Member of Parliament. ed.komarnicki.c1@parl.gc.ca www.edkomarnicki.com

Blunt Expressions carries medicinal smoking accessories, Zippo lighters, bath/body/health products, books, games, and other novelty items. We stock the new Sublimator medicinal vaporizer.

For over 60 years, Affinity Credit Union has provided personal, commercial and agricultural financial services in Southeastern Saskatchewan.

Gift Giving Starts With Us

Providing Peace of Mind

Canadian Tire 200 King St Estevan | 306.634.6407 | Service 306.634.6408 1240 Sims Ave Weyburn | 306.842.4600 | www.canadiantire.ca

Cathedral Insurance Brokers 10-910 13th Avenue North, Estevan | 306.634.2671 cathedralinsurance.ca | cathedralbrokers@sasktel.net

Therapeutic Relaxation: Treat Yourself

Estevan Art Gallery and Museum

Exhale Massage Clinic & Day Spa 1234 4th Street, Estevan | 306.634.3446 www.exhaledayspa.ca

Estevan Art Gallery and Museum 118 4th Street, Estevan | 306.634.7644 eagm@sasktel.net | www.eagm.ca

Estevan Dental Associates

Highly Professional and Fair

Estevan Dental Associates 1322 3rd Street| 306.634.5515 | 1134 3rd Street | 306.634.5018 www.estevandentalassociates.com

5th Street Autobody 601 5th Street, Estevan | 306.634.7101 5street@sasktel.net

From decorations to toys to gifts for everyone in your family, Canadian tire makes gift giving easy so you can Give like Santa and save like Scrooge.

We provide hot stone/relaxation/therapeutic massage, plus spa services including body treatments, facials, hair removal, manicures, pedicures, and more. Birthday parties, bridal or bachelorette groups welcome.

Dr. Daniel Crooks, DMD General Dentistry

We build trusted relationships that protect our clients, which is why so many make us their choice for home, auto, farm and business insurance.

The Estevan Art Gallery and Museum is open year round with art exhibitions changing every 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8 weeks. Admission is always free.

Offering full autobody services, SGI accredited, free estimates, windshield installation, custom painting, paintless dent repair and more. All domestic and foreign vehicles.

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Connecting the Province

Book Now: Catering to Wow

Signal Direct Communications Ltd. 1-1254 7th Street, Estevan | 306.634.9994 www.signaldirect.ca | contact@signaldirect.ca

A Little Taste of Heaven Catering Inc. Box 563, Estevan | 306.634.6852 www.heavencatering.ca | heavencatering2010@hotmail.com

Great Service, Great Floors

A Beautiful Place to Indulge

Adam Pasloskiâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Reliable Craftsman Floor Installer 306.461.5733 306.634.4899

Dolly Sueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon Day Spa & Boutique 1400 King Street, Estevan | 306.634.8383 susan@dollysues.com |

Dream in Colour

Crown Advertising Products

Brushed FX 1533 Thorn Crescent, Estevan 306.421.1891 |

Crown Advertising 405 Kensington Avenue, Estevan | 306.634.9846 www.crownad.ca

Signal Direct Communications Ltd. is the leader in southeast Saskatchewan in providing wireless internet, two-way radio and analog radio communications, wireless networking and automotive installations.

Specializing in tile, stone, hardwood and laminate flooring. Servicing residential and commercial, Estevan, Weyburn and the surrounding areas.

Custom paint and facelift for your cabinetry, furniture, book shelves, tables and more.

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A Little Taste of Heaven is a 53-foot mobile kitchen offering home-style cooking for any event. Baby back ribs, prime rib meals and more.

A beautiful salon, spa and boutique full of fabulous clothes, jewellery, shoes and so much more.

Locally owned and operated. Serving teams, schools and businesses. Specializing in embroidery, silk screening, heat press. Variety of hard goods. Nothing too big or small.

Something 1 of 1 Making Houses into Homes

Carefree Living

Weimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hometown 39 Riverview Drive, Weyburn | 306.842.6441 weimershometown.com | weimers@accesscomm.ca

Terra Developments Inc. 306.924.0445 | 306.842.3332 doug@terrainc.ca

A Place of Resonance

Mortgage Professional: Tara Ford

HeartSong Wellness Studio 211 Park Avenue, North Portal 306.634.8102

Tara Ford, TD Mobile Mortgage Specialist Estevan, Weyburn and area | 306.421.3938 tara.ford@td.com | www.tdcanadatrust.com/msf/taraford

Unique Construction and Renovations

Offering the Best Trucks and Service

Sector 1 Inc. Sandon Weber 306.421.3557

Senchuk Ford Limited Estevan | 306.634.3696 randy@senchuk.com | rick@senchuk.com | www.senchuk.com

Serving southern Saskatchewan for over 40 years. Welcoming you to come see how our staff can make your time with us an enjoyable shopping experience.

For therapy through expression.

We specialize in residential custom renovations for your bath, kitchen and bedroom. Offering drywall, trim, flooring, tile, paint, poly, insulation, siding and more.

Terra Developmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest Weyburn development offers 55-years-plus clients condo benefits without giving up singlefamily home freedom. Call Doug Rogers, broker.

As a mortgage professional, I can help you review your mortgage options and select the home financing option that best suits your needs.

Senchuk Ford Limited is a full-service facility with new and used vehicles, full body shop, service department and a full line of Ford parts and accessories.

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Something 1 of 1 Trimount Developments

Making Connections Since 1961

Trimount Developments Box 579 Station Main, Estevan | 306.634.3999 | F. 306.634.4999 info@trimount.ca | www.trimount.ca

South East Electric Ltd. 122 Highway 47 S, Estevan | 306.634.0020 Highway 9 N, Carlyle | 306.453.2021 | www.southeastelectricltd.com

Reassuring the Finest Quality and Value

Work with Endurance

Blackie’s Coring Services Ltd. 434 5th Street, Estevan | 306.634.2673 | c: 306.421.3322 blackiescoring@sasktel.net

Endurance Oilfield Supervision & Construction Ltd. 299 Wahba Court, Estevan | 306.421.2226 enduranceoilfield@sasktel.net

Success Built on Customer Satisfaction

The Best in Service Since 1958

GMR Electric Motors Ltd. 817-46th Street East, Saskatoon | 306.841.9456 106 Perkins Street, Estevan | 306.637.2525 | www.gmrelectric.com

Mayer’s Machine & Welding Ltd. 412 Mississippian Drive, Estevan | 306.634.6466 | 306.461.9938 mayermachine@sasktel.net

The developer of choice in Estevan and Weyburn.

Specializing in the coring industry. Conventional coring, fiber pipe coring, aluminum coring and split barrel corring.

GMR has been serving southeast Saskatchewan for the past 20 years. Our service location established in Estevan stocks a large inventory of electric motors.

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Electrical construction and maintenance for oilfield, commercial, industrial and agricultural sectors. Providing excavating services, portable generator rentals, well site controls, drilling rig wiring and more.

Prompt efficient service focusing on getting it safely done. For oilfield construction and maintenance.

For lathe work, welding, mechanical and press work, oilfield, industrial and agricultural maintenance and repair, as well as drive shafts and general machine shop work.

ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

OIL AND GAS

DIRECTORY

Something 1 of 1 Safe, Economic and Trusted

Legacy of Success

CEDA Reactor 427 Mississippian Drive, Estevan | 306.634.4797 | 306.721.2534 www.ceda.com

Kandrea Locations Group of Companies 56 Devonian Street | 306.634.6847 www.kandrea.ca

Renegade Petroleum Ltd.

Where the Business Comes to the Customer

Renegade Petroleum Ltd. 311 Kensington Avenue, Estevan | 306.637.2230 | fax 306.637.2067 www.renegadepetroleum.com

Lavoie Mobile Cleaning Ltd. 346 Poplar Bay,Estevan | 306.634.8500 safety.lmc@sasktel.net

Professional Oilfield Services

Tremcar West Inc â&#x20AC;&#x201D; New Location

RigRhino Oilfield Services 337 6th Street, Weyburn | 306.842.9499 rigrhino@hotmail.com

Tremcar West Inc. 216-20th Avenue SE, Weyburn | 306.842.6100 nostadts@tremcar.com

Steaming, pressure testing, tank cleaning, vessel circulation, pipeline filling, frac fluid heating, hot oiling, water hauling and shutdowns for industrial and oilfield.

Renegade Petroleum Ltd. is a light oil focused exploration and production company with assets located in Saskatchewan, Alberta, Manitoba and North Dakota.

RigRhino Oilfield Services is committed to providing cost-effective and environmentally sustainable service to oil companies and land owners.

Kandrea provides long-term career options for people in the Estevan area and contributes to local businesses and charities. For wellhead, battery, plant construction and maintenance.

Oilfield cleaning and vacuuming of tanks, treater vessels and heavy equipment. Jetting frozen lines, cleaning up oilfield spills and cleaning inside shops.

Tank trailer repair. PIVK B620 inspections. Auto greasing. SGI inspections. Trouble shooting ABS Systems. Stock and sell Parts. Leasing available. Titan gauge repair and calibration.

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Something 1 of 1 Waste and Recycling Service Since 1985

No Fuss, No Hassle

Regens Disposal Ltd. 500 Bourquin Rd., Estevan | 306.634.7209 | toll free 1.855.202.7209 40 18th St. NE, Weyburn | 306.842.7209 | www.regensdisposal.ca

Energy Electric Ltd. P. O. Box 578 Estevan | 306.421.2277 energyelectric@sasktel.net

Professional Work Guaranteed

Know it — Before you Own it!

Power Tech Industries Ltd. 306.637.2180 sschoff.pti@sasktel.net

A-Plus Inspections - Brent Monroe 826 3rd Street, Estevan | 306.421.0473 estevanhomeinspection.com | a.plus@sasktel.net |

Safety Training Spurs Employee Engagement

Working well under pressure

Commercial and residential collection of trash and recyclable material. Find us in your community by looking for our red bins. We provide containers big and small.

24 hours a day, seven days a week for all clients. Electrical services for oilfield, from battery construction and instrumentation, to general service and maintenance.

A wide range of classroom and online training opportunities. Don Beahm is one of the foremost experts, and can tailor a program for your needs. Don Beahm, crsp, chsc, cso—D.B. Safety Solutions Inc. 659 Butters Bay, Weyburn | 306.861.7093 db.safetysolutions@sasktel.net | www.dbsafetysolutions.com

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Electrical construction for commercial, residential, rural, data networking and more. Local tradespeople working with reliability, expertise and professional pride.

A-Plus Inspections: Southeast Saskatchewan’s most experienced and most economical commercial and residential full-line inspection service.

Hotshot Oilfield Service offers a variety of products and services to its clients, including pressure trucks, p-tanks, light picker, hot-shot services, Enercat tools, and wellhead sales/installation. Hotshot Oilfield Service (1988) Corp. Box 605, Weyburn 306.842.5653

$1000 prize

for pre-re bidders in gistered attendanc e

GRAND OPENING AUCTION Thursday, February 6, 2014 - 5:30pm Just a few reasons why you should sell your items at Tosczak Auctions: • We turn your items into cash • Get the highest price possible with multiple buyers bidding for your items • Advertising is done for you • Get the item out of your house or off of your property immediately as it will be stored in our secure facility until auction day • We sell a range of items such as boats, snomobiles, farm equipment, antiques and much more. • Registration is FREE and you will have your bid # for life at Tosczak Auctions

UNRESERVED ABOVE L-R Darren Boren, consignment manager and auctioneer; Jeff Tosczak, owner and auctioneer; Rebecca Guest, office manager

285 1st Ave SW • Weyburn • 306.842.3500 info@tosczakauctions.com • www.tosczakauctions.com FineLifestyles

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for

Safety

Choose

Pictured above: Dr. Liza Pompa, MD, PhD, AFACS

Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Female Bariatric Surgeon of Excellence Recognized in Newsweek as one of the top 15 Bariatric Surgeons Worldwide.

www.weightlossforever.ca TOLL FREE: 1-877-306-8891

FineLifestyles

Estevan/Weyburn