FineLifestyles Estevan & Weyburn Sept/Oct 2012 by Fine Lifestyles

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER VOLUME 1 ISSUE 5

RODEO SEASON

Living the Western Dream WOMEN IN THE OIL FIELD 100 YEARS OF THE STAMPEDE RAMSAY GETS COOKING

Budget Blinds is Estevan & Weyburn’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.

Meet your local sales consultant natalie Gray Budget Blinds Consultant Estevan, Weyburn & Area 534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. e: natalie@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com

Locally owned and operated, Leanne Fisher is proud to call Saskatchewan home again after moving to Alberta for college 13 years ago! “If you ask any of our staff why we do what we do...they will all answer...because we get to meet so many great people”! Our staff makes the difference! In addition to providing customers with education about each product at a competitive price – our staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home atmosphere to 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 the following day, or aiding an elder customer with cleaning her windows while we’re up on the ladder – we are different – we go the extra mile! We are out to change how you buy window coverings! Shop where your windows are. We come to you! Explore fabrics, materials, choices and features from hundreds of product styles and colors. We measure so you get the perfect fit, and then provide professional installation to ensure a beautiful view!

Call to book your free in-home consultation! Weyburn • 306.842.5328

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Estevan • 306.634.5328

COMMITMENT To Custom ers , To Product s

Acadia Denali

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Small town relationships Small town pricing

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Weybex Award Recipients

2012 WEYBEX WINNERS COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT The Mainil Family of Businesses With a fifty year history in the community, the Mainil Family of Businesses has created a legacy of community involvement. Home Hardware

BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR Kim Thorson Mr. Thorson has been in business for decades – not only building his own business, but helping others as well. Not only as a lawyer, but also on the Board of Directors for such companies as the Weyburn Co-op, Cameco, Ipsco and more. GOLDEN SERVICE Home Hardware Weyburn’s Home Hardware Store has created a legacy of customer service. Arlen and the staff take pride in being knowledgeable about their product and ensuring that each customer receives top notch service.

Helen and John Georgacacos

NEW OR EXPANDED and BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Souris Valley Industries Producing pre-cast concrete products for the construction industry has turned out to be big business for SVI. The amount of municipal product being produced is growing every year. FLEW

SEREDA 11 3rd St NE Weyburn, SK 306.842.8003 tourism@weyburnchamber.com

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ENJOY THE ESTEVAN EXPERIENCE BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

or a community of around 13,000 people, Estevan has more than enough attractions and events for you to take advantage of. Tourism Estevan is working hard to make your experience an amazing one. How do you find these events and attractions? It’s easy, using Tourism Estevan’s five main tools.

Go Online TourismEstevan.com is chalked full of information regarding accommodations, visitor resources, events calendar, and an online visitors guide. There is also a ‘things to do’ link that includes information on Estevan’s Arts &

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Culture community, dining, events, farmers market, geocaching, hunting and fishing, motorsports, shopping, spas, sports and recreation plus tours. Some featured attractions in Estevan are the new Spectra Place where concerts and hockey games are held, Boundary Dam which is the only location in Western Canada where you can catch Largemouth Bass, the Estevan Museum and Art Gallery, and their highly popular mining tours.

Find Your Event The Events Calendar serves two purposes for visitors and residents alike. Not only is it used

to find events and concerts to enjoy, but also by local businesses so they make sure they don’t schedule an event on the same date as another so people don’t have to miss out and make the tough choice on which great event to choose.

Get Smart “Our smartphone mobile website is information intensive, not content intensive,” explains Tourism Development Manager Kevin D’Souza talking about how people can get quick information about what’s happening around Estevan while they are there. So no matter where you are in the Estevan area, you can get access to any information that you are looking for.

The Passport Program Something very unique to Estevan’s Tourism is their passport program. It’s a tool that is used to not only promote local attractions and events but to also to educate the community. “There are people who come to Estevan to live for five or six months and a lot of them don’t know about all the great things we have to offer here,” says D’Souza. There are ten different attractions and events on the passport, get stamps for everyone you visit. Once you get three stamps, take your passport to Estevan’s Visitor Center or the Chamber of Commerce for a chance to win some great prizes. “The best part about the program is that all the attractions are either very inexpensive or even free.”

Visitors Guide Estevan’s Visitors Guide is all created in-house (other than the printing) and is packed full of any information you’ll need to enjoy and see the sights of the town. You can find copies in any of the five Visitor Centers operated by Tourism Saskatchewan including, Fleming, North Portal, Maple Creek, Lagenburg and Lloydminster. They can also be found around the province located at various gas stations, hotels, restaurants and more in Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, and Yorkton. The welcoming staff working at the Estevan Visitor Center is available throughout the summer months from 9-5 every day of the week. New You Tube videos will soon be available to give tourists a sense of the variety of events and attractions Estevan has to offer. Estevan is truly a destination to experience explore and enjoy! FLEW

Estevan Chamber of Commerce 318 4th Street Estevan, SK 306. 637.2151 michel@estevanchamber.ca www.estevanchamber.ca

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and having a great weekend Graphic Design and Layout ahead of you. Whether you Graphic and Layout ahead of you. Whether you Laura Grzyb Design laurag@finelifestyles.ca are going on holidays, hanging Laura Grzyb laurag@finelifestyles.ca are going on holidays, hanging around your yard or heading around your you yardcan’t or heading StaffESTEVAN/WEYBURN Writers SASKATOON to the cabin, find a Staff Writers Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca to the cabin, you can’t find a ESTEVAN/WEYBURN better LIFESTYLES time of year. WITH FINE EDITOR Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca WITH FINE LIFESTYLES EDITOR Shawna Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca better time of year. ESTEVAN/WEYBURN WITH FINE LIFESTYLES EDITOR Shawna Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca Dan Grant dang@finelifestyles.caa TObIE HaInsTOck It seems there are more WITHMICHAEL FINE LIFESTYLES EDITOR TOBIE HAINSTOCK GALL Dan Grant dang@finelifestyles.caa It seems there inareEstevan more things happening MICHAEL GALL VOLUME 3 ISSUE 2 things happening in Estevan VOLUME 1 ISSUE 4 In-House Design and Weyburn all the time and VOLUME 1 Associate ISSUE In-House Design VOLUME 14ISSUE and Weyburn all the time and Editor 5 Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca Summer an amazing both are continuing tois see Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca Tobie Hainstock tobieh@finelifestyles.ca It was one of the warmest both are continuing to see Editor Erica Silzer ericas@finelifestyles.ca season. Everyone seems unprecedented success. Finefor isit’s thestill time Erica Silzer ericas@finelifestyles.ca Itwinters was one the warmest www.finelifestyles.ca Editor Ed Willet Design and Layout we’veofSummer seen but unprecedented success. Fine energetic brighter and more Graphic Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn Ed Willet winters we’ve seen but it’s still fresh air, the outdoors, the great to be in the middle of Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn Photography this time of year. Of course Laura Grzyb laurag@finelifestyles.ca Associate Editor is also continuing to growofand Photography great to be injingle the middle Associate Editor of spurs, the cheers Jon Gillies www.imagesbygillies.com summer. There’s nothing quite the weather is aand big factor. We is also continuing to grow prosper. This is our biggest Tobie Hainstock tobieh@finelifestyles.ca In-House Design Jon Gillies www.imagesbygillies.com Associate Editor summer. There’s nothing quite Michael Gallwww.facebook.com/ffphoto2012 michaelg@finelifestyles.ca Sully have more sunshine hours Doug likeissue getting off on Friday prosper. This iscrowds, our biggest ofwork the and the Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca yetoff and, beyond that, we Doug Sully www.facebook.com/ffphoto2012 Michael Gall michaelg@finelifestyles.ca Mercer www.starlitestudiophotography.com like getting work on Friday and warmer temperature Starr andhave having a great weekend issue yet and, beyond that, we Erica Silzer ericas@finelifestyles.ca thrill of an excitingand event. Starr Mercer www.starlitestudiophotography.com a variety of stories Staff Poage www.citylightsburnxo.blogspot.com which encourage people toTiffany and having a great weekend Graphic Design andWriters Layout ahead of you. Whether you have a variety of stories and Tiffany Poage www.citylightsburnxo.blogspot.com businesses like before. As a never child visiting the with friends Ashleigh Mattern ashleighm@finelifestyles.ca Photography Jessica Hunter www.jessicahunterphotography.com Graphic Design and Layout get out and about Laura Grzyb laurag@finelifestyles.ca ahead of on you. Whether you are businesses going holidays, hanging like never before. Jessica Hunter www.jessicahunterphotography.com Candace Nykea Behiel Epp www.candaceepp.com nykea@finelifestyles.ca Roy www.facebook.com/WildChildphotos Laura Grzyb laurag@finelifestyles.ca and Summer rodeo, I family. would hand- blooms Teena are goingthe on holidays, hanging For first time, wewalk have around your yard or heading Teena Roy www.facebook.com/WildChildphotos Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com Shawna Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca Erin Tollefson For the first time, we have before us as nature flaunts her Staff Writers around your yard or heading an cabin, article you fromcan’t none in-hand with myother Erin Tollefson to the find afather Kerri Froese DanStaff Grant dang@finelifestyles.ca Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com fashion for the Writers an cabin, article from none other Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca to the you can’t find a season. than Gordon Ramsay. The far on Kerry Lubchenko www.armadkerry.com Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com better time of year. to the stands to cheer Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca than Gordon Ramsay. The Common shawnac@finelifestyles.ca Lisa Landrie www.lisalandrie.com As seasons go,farI must sayShawna better time of year. from soft-spoken chef is here Graphic Design and Layout family,are neighbours and Advertising Consultant Shawna shawnac@finelifestyles.ca DanCommon Grant dang@finelifestyles.caa It seems there more from soft-spoken chef is here Shawn Fulton www.shawnfultonphotography.com that summer is filled with the for good too—we will have Ithimseems in our there future issues of Fine Advertising Consultant Britany Watson britany@finelifestyles.ca Dan Grant dang@finelifestyles.caa are more Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca Stephanie Zhang www.chao.viewbook.com even strangers from my in for good too—we will great have things him inhappening our future issues of Fine Best ofEstevan thebut Best. The festivals Britany Watson Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca britany@finelifestyles.ca Lifestyles. You can get recipes if you’re a in cook, just Brooke Tristan Becker www.third-meaning.com Annalisa Raho annalisa@finelifestyles.ca things happening Estevan In-House Design and Weyburn all the time and and fairs along with long Lifestyles. You can get great recipes if you’re a cook, but just home town. Later my dad Brooke Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca looking at the pictures alone and is enough to whet your appetite. Subreena Kaban subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Kaley Tumback kaleyt@finelifestyles.ca In-House Design Weyburn all weekends theyour time and Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca and family reunions are to continuing to see looking at the pictures aloneboth is enough whet appetite. Staff Writers Subreena Kaban subreenak@finelifestyles.ca would take me to meet Amber Moon amber@finelifestyles.ca Erica Silzer ericas@finelifestyles.ca both are continuing to see We also have local stories unprecedented like our cover success. story about the And who are second to none. Nykea Behiel • Dan Grant Fine Publisher We also brothers. have local like about our cover story about Erica Silzer Shawna ericas@finelifestyles.ca some offorget the competitors Common •Ashleigh Mattern can thethe breathtaking success. Fine Wilhelm Youstories can unprecedented read three local brothers, Cover Photography Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn Publisher Wayne UnRuh 306.541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca Wilhelmthree brothers. Youhorses. can read about three localand brothers, Photography and pet their It was thrilling, like meeting a favourite sunsets in overlooking our Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn running separate construction businesses how Jennifer Cugnet WayneLiberet UnRuh 306.540.3320 306.541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca is also continuing to grow andhow Contributing Writers Randy randy@finelifestyles.ca running separate construction businesses and Jon GilliesPhotography www.imagesbygillies.com beautiful city? isprosper. also continuing to grow and they got three started. There are plenty ofThis other success stories rock star or actor. Randy Liberet 306.540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca Aviva Zack • Candace Fox •Carol Rogers is our biggest Jon Gillies www.imagesbygillies.com Doug3440 SullyBalsam www.facebook.com/ffphoto2012 they gotWe started. Thereso are plenty of other success stories Regina, S4V •2S4 prosper. This is biggest JasonGrove Booker • KarinSK Schweir Sarah Ferguson as well. profile businesses that on of our cityDoug We 5areSaskatchewan thrilled toyet feature theour Best ofwent the Best issue and, beyond that, we Photography 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, SK S4V 2S4 Sully www.starlitestudiophotography.com www.facebook.com/ffphoto2012 Starr Mercer as well. WeAsprofile 5 Saskatchewan businesses that went on issue yet and, beyond that, we this issue. Wesuccessful have an incredible style section aninadult, Ileft still with treasure myvariety memories of visiting the rodeo. the Dragon’s Den and partnerships. All of featuring have a of stories and Starr Mercer www.starlitestudiophotography.com Advertising Consultant Tiffany Poage Doug www.citylightsburnxo.blogspot.com Sully ffphoto2012@yahoo.ca the Dragon’s andtoleft with successful partnerships. Allwe of asFine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn is published six times a year by Fine such artists from across theresist country such Dean have a incredible variety of and them were It’s onDen their stories and businesses like never before. ahand part ofamazing ourshare western heritage. Who can the action Tiffany Poage www.citylightsburnxo.blogspot.com Cathie Watson cathie@finelifestyles.ca Jessica Hunter www.jessicahunterphotography.com Jenelle Quigley www.beautiphotography.com Fine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn is published sixmaterials times a year by Fine Lifestyles Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any chosen for them were on hand to share their incredible stories and we Renwick, Rebecca King and Lucian Matis. Saskatoon Fashion businesses like never before. are very proud to share them with you as well. We even have Chris Larsen chris@finelifestyles.ca Jessica www.jessicahunterphotography.com Lifestyles Ltd. We reserve the rightWe to jenncugnet@hotmail.com edit anythe materials Jennifer Cugnet TeenaHunter Roy www.facebook.com/WildChildphotos publication including photographs. reserve right tochosen reject for or of theto bull ridingthem and barrel racing, the taste of the food, thetalent For the first time, we have are very proud share with you as well. We even have and Design Festival was an incredible display of that Crystal Reich crystal@finelifestyles.ca publication including photographs. We reserve the rightAll to contents reject or Teena www.facebook.com/WildChildphotos a story about Paul Nolan, a successful actortime, on Broadway who Nykea Behiel nykea@finelifestyles.ca Erin Tollefson accept anyRoy article, photograph, image or advertisement. For the first we have comedic antics ofa the and my particular favourite, anclowns article from none other a story about Paul Nolan, successful actor Broadway who proves that, when it comes toon fashion, Saskatchewan has a Lifestyles, Deborah Paul accept anyHeather article, photograph, image or advertisement. All all contents Erinwww.heatherfritz.com Tollefson Jon Gillies www.imagesbygillies.com of Fine Ltd., publications aredebbiep@finelifestyles.ca copyrighted 2012 with rights was born in Saskatchewan. Fritz article from noneThe other Jason Booker of Fine Lifestyles, Ltd., publications are jason@finelifestyles.ca copyrighted with allwhere rights talent poolchuck asan big as herraces? heart. than Gordon Ramsay. far was born inthe Saskatchewan. reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine2012 Lifestyles, thrill of the wagon It’s where neighbours, Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com Marie Strumecki marie@finelifestyles.ca reserved, resides except for original articles than Gordon Ramsay. The far I believe thisdonning is our best issue yet and hopefully you will enjoy copyright with the author. Nosubmitted other partto ofFine this Lifestyles, publicationwhere may from soft-spoken chef is here Recently, the upyet andand coming jazzupartist Jill Barber paid our city resides their best western gear,hopefully meet toyou watch the Consultant believe this our best issue will enjoy copyright with the No other part thisLifestyles publication may be reproduced Advertising without theauthor. written permission ofof Fine Ltd. or Contributing Writers from soft-spoken chef is here itIgood as much as iswe’ve enjoyed working on it. There was a lot of too—we will have him in our future issues of Fine Director of Operations Consultant a visitenjoyed during the Jazz Festival andthe Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon Britany Watson be writers. reproduced without thebritany@finelifestyles.ca written permission of Fine Lifestyles Ltd.be or it as much as we’ve working on it. There was a lot of its TheAdvertising name Fine Lifestyles, its logo and material cannot excitement of competitors from all across continent work Jennifer Cugnet Dean Renwick good too—we will have him in our future issues of Fine hard work into lot ofher. local photographers Maryann Yeomans estyles. Youput can getit—including great recipes ifaawith you’re a cook, but just Britany Watson britany@finelifestyles.ca was privileged to by talk its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles, itsmaryann@finelifestyles.ca logo material The cannot be Brooke Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca reproduced without the written consent of theand publishers. views hard work put into it—including by lot of local photographers Meredith Heron Shell Busey hard at coveted titles. styles. You can getwinning great recipes if you’re a your cook, just and business owners whothose we are very grateful to.appetite. I but think you’ll reproduced without theinwritten consent of columns the publishers. views Brooke Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca king at the pictures alone is enough to championship whet opinions expressed the expert advice herein The are those Subreena Kaban subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Publisher In Saskatoon, our for excellence shines forth inand many andat business owners who areheart very grateful to.appetite. I think you’ll and the expertrepresent advice columns herein those king the pictures alone iswe enough toeveryone whet your of theopinions authors expressed and do notin necessarily the views and are opinions find it’s been well worth the effort by involved.. Subreena Kaban subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Wayne UnRuh 306.541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca sectors of our life. we offerinvolved.. the did crème de la crème of authors efind alsoit’shave local stories like ourLocally, cover story about the of Fine the and do or not necessarily represent the views opinions been well worth the effort by everyone of Lifestyles Ltd. the companies it represents. The and information This summer, Fine Lifestyles Estevan Weyburn a little Randy Liberet 306.540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca Advertising Consultants Publisher also have local stories like our cover story about the home decor, fine cuisine, business development and more. of Fine Lifestyles Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address lhelm brothers. You can read about three local brothers, Like us on Facebook.com/finemags rodeo circuiting, and creating some of Wayne UnRuh wayne@finelifestyles.ca contained herein is306.541.3365 ofany a Publisher general nature and is not intended to address Being in the heart of a @finemags province that isrecollections growing Britany Watson britany@finelifestyles.ca the circumstances of particular individual or entity. Although we helm three brothers. You read about threespecial local brothers, Like us can on Facebook.com/finemags 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, SK S4V 2S4 nning separate construction businesses and howand developing Follow us on Twitter: Wayne UnRuh 306.541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca the circumstances ofaccurate any particular individual or entity. Although we Randy Liberet 306.540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca endeavour to provide and timely information, there can be Lifestyles no our own. A visit to the Calgary Stampede brought to life a Brooke Watson brooke@finelifestyles.ca at an alarming pace, Saskatoon is a beautiful and friendly city Follow us on Twitter: @finemags ning separate construction andstories how Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon is published four times a year by Fine ey gotthree started. There are plenty of businesses other success endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no Randy Liberet 306.540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Ltd. Balsam WeSubreena reserve theKaban right to edit anyS4V materials chosen for publication thatof is moving inofso manyinto offering 3440 Grove Regina, SK 2S4 century history andforward a lifetime dreams a span ywell. gotWe started. 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All of held upon upon such informationof without appropriate professional advice after a for publications are copyrighted 2012 with all rights reserved, except thorough examination the particular situation. We are all looking to achieve the high standards that we, as a Fine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn is published six times a year by Fine Dragon’s Den and left with successful partnerships. All of Maryann Yeomans maryann@finelifestyles.ca em were on fun hand share their incredible storiesAnd and filledtoexcitement for all ages and sizes. thewe rodeo original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles, where copyright resides thorough examination of the particular situation. Fine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn is published six times a year by Fine Lifestyles Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for city and province have set for ourselves. It is that drive to be mvery were on hand to share their you incredible stories andhave we with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced proud to share them with asread well. Wesome even season over yet. Youthat can about of the Lifestyles We reserve the right to edit materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or Publisher theisn’t Best of the Best inspire us great personally andLtd. without the written permission ofany Fine Lifestyles Ltd. or its writers. The veryabout proudPaul to share them with youactor as continues well. We to even have tory Nolan, a successful on Broadway who publication photographs. We reserve the cannot right All to reject or without accept any including article, photograph, image or advertisement. contents name Fine Lifestyles, its logo and material be reproduced western experiences youour may have missed, but grows can stilland get continues a professionally. As city and province Randy Liberet 540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca ory about Paul Nolan, a successful actor on Broadway who accept article, photograph, or advertisement. All of Fine any Lifestyles, publications copyrighted with all rights expressed s born in Saskatchewan. theLtd., written consentimage of are the publishers. The2012 views andcontents opinions to prove theEstevan world Rodeo that wecoming are a force be week reckoned with, Wayne Unruh 541.3365 thrill by visitingtothe up thetofirst infor theoriginal expert advice columns herein are2012 those of all therights authors and do of Fine Lifestyles, Ltd., publications are copyrighted with reserved, except articles submitted towayne@finelifestyles.ca Fine Lifestyles, where s born in Saskatchewan. we also set new goalshopefully to achieveyou onlywill the enjoy highest of standards. Brooke Watson 551.4789 brooke@finelifestyles.ca not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Ltd. elieve this isofour best issue yet and reserved, for original articles submitted toof Fine Lifestyles, where copyrightexcept resides with the author. No other part this publication may September. It’s a great way to end the summer holidays or the companies it No represents. The information herein is of 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. contained S4V 2S4 elieve thisasiswe’ve our best issue yet and hopefully you willaaenjoy copyright resides with the author. other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles Ltd. or s much enjoyed working on it.summer, There was lot ofaround As you are enjoying the have look the city a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of beforeenjoyed the start of the school year. be the written permission Fine Lifestyles Ltd. be or its reproduced writers. Thewithout name Fine Lifestyles, its logo of and material cannot s much as we’ve working on it. There was a lot of Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn six times a we yearendeavour by Fine Lifestyles Estevan/ rd work put into it—including by a lottoofappreciate local photographers any particular individual isorpublished entity. Although to provide and take a moment all that we have to offer.Fine its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles, its logo and material be that including reproduced without written consent of the publishers. The accurate and timely information, there can bechosen nocannot guarantee such Weyburn, Ltd.the We reserve the right to edit any materials forviews publication work put owners into it—including byvery aare lotthe of Best localofto. photographers dd business who we–are grateful I think Saskatoon you the Best. you’ll reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or We alsowho havewe fabulous about what its like to be a ddbusiness are very grateful to. I think you’ll and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions it’s been owners well worth thea effort byarticle everyone involved.. to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information advertisement. All contents of Fine Lifestyles Estevan/Weyburn, Ltd. publications are copywithout appropriate professional advice after a and thorough examination of woman working in theby oil everyone industry, and many other featuresof authors and dowith not necessarily represent views opinions of the Fine Lifestyles Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information d it’s been well worth the effort involved.. righted 2012 all rights reserved, except forthe original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles

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endeavour toreproduced provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee be that such information is accurate asofofthe the date it is received without the written consent publishers. The views and opinions exFacebook.com/finemags @finemags guarantee that such information iscolumns accurate of those theNo date itauthors isshould received or that it will continue to be accurate inherein theasfuture. one pressed in the expert advice are of the andact do not necessarily www.finelifestyles.ca represent the views andaccurate opinions ofin Fine Lifestyles Ltd. ora the companies or thatsuch it will continue to be the future.Estevan/Weyburn No one should act upon information without appropriate professional advice after itinformation represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and isa not intended to upon suchexamination without appropriate professional advice after thorough of the particular situation. address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to thorough examination of the particular situation.

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

Featured Contributors Contributors Featured Featured Contributors Photographers Consultants Photographers Consultants passion for photography really passionto flourish. for photography really started With the beautiful started and to flourish. the beautiful skyline roamingWith colorful fields it skyline and fields it was easy to roaming not onlycolorful take beautiful was easy take beautiful photos but to to not gainonly inspiration. www. photos but to gain inspiration. www. starlitestudiophotography.com starlitestudiophotography.com

Jon Gillies Starr Mercer Jon Gillies Jon Gillies Starr Mercer Jon has been an avidtophotographer Aspiring tohas inspire find their beenothers an avid Jon Jon has been an avidphotographer photographer

his entire life. He pursued histheir interest Aspiring toentire inspire others to find passion within’ alife. phrase photographer his his entire life. He his interest Hepursued pursued hisreceived interest into a profession and has passion within’ a phrase photographer Starrinto Mercer lives by. and Starr and her a aprofession and has received into profession has received extensive training and experience. Starr Mercer lives by. Starr and her He husband made the decision to raise extensive training and experience. He extensive training and experience. He graduated the husband made decision toUniversity raise theirhas family in the the from sweet setting of has graduated from the University has graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor their in the It sweet of Oxbow inSaskatchewan 2008. was that offamily Saskatchewan withsetting a Bachelor of with ahere Bachelor of of Fine Arts degree Studio Art Oxbow in 2008. emerged It was in here that Starr’s creativity and her of Fine Arts degree in Studio Arts degree indegree Studio Art and Art an and an Education majoring Starr’s creativity emerged and her passion for photography really andArts an Education degree Education degree majoring inmajoring Arts in Education. He continues passion for photography really started to flourish. With the in keep Arts Education. Hebeautiful Education. He continues to continues keep current, to current, and travelled started to flourish. With thehas beautiful skyline and roaming colorful fields it to keep current, and has travelled and has travelled internationally tothe internationally to receive skyline and roaming colorful fields it wasinternationally easy to not onlytotakereceive beautiful the receive the latest techniques and latest and trends in trends the was easy to only take beautiful photos buttechniques tonot gain inspiration. www. latest techniques and trends in his thehis in the photography world. He shares photography world. He shares photos but to gain inspiration. www. starlitestudiophotography.com photography world. Hewith shares his passion and knowledge others in passion and knowledge with others starlitestudiophotography.com passion and knowledge with others his photography photography workshops. From nature in his workshops. From in his photography workshops. nature to people, Jon captures the with unique perspectives and to people, Jon captures the light,From plays nature to people, Jon captures theimages stand out. light,theplays unique latestwith special effectsperspectives to make his light, plays with unique perspectives Jonand has been an avid photographer the latest special effects and the He latest special effects Jon haswww.imagesbygillies.com been an avid photographer his to entire life. pursued his stand interest make his images out. to make images stand out. his entire life. Hehis pursued his received interest intowww.imagesbygillies.com a profession and has www.imagesbygillies.com into a profession and experience. has received extensive training and He extensive trainingfrom and experience. He has graduated the University has graduated fromwith the a University of Saskatchewan Bachelor of Bachelor inwith Oxbow, Saskatchewan of Saskatchewan FineI have Artslived degree in aStudio Art I have lived in 16 Oxbow, of Arts degree in Studio Art for the past years. ISaskatchewan teach high andFine an Education degree majoring I have lived in Oxbow, Saskatchewan past 16 degree years. continues I teach high and an the Education school English and at in for Arts Education. HeSocial for the past 16and years. majoring I Studies teach high English Social Studies atI in Arts Education. He continues to school keep current, and has travelled the Estevan Comprehensive School. school English and Social Studies at the Estevan Comprehensive School. to keep current, and has travelled internationally to receive the II a wife, Kim, and two daughters, the have Estevan Comprehensive School. have a wife, Kim, and two daughters, internationally toand receive the latest techniques trends in the Jennifer (19) attending thedaughters, U of Regina, have a wife, Kim, and two Jennifer (19) attending the Uin of Regina, latest techniques and trends the photography world. He shares his and Stephanie (16) who will be going Jennifer (19) attending the U of Regina, and Stephanie (16) who willothers behis going photography world. He shares passion andgrade knowledge with 12.(16) I was born in Yorkton, SK, andinto Stephanie who will be going into grade 12. I was born in Yorkton, passion and knowledge with others in his photography workshops. From SK, the second youngest ofinfive boys. into grade 12. I was born Yorkton, SK, thephotography second youngest of five boys. in his workshops. From nature to people, captures the have been anJon amateur photographer the Isecond youngest of five boys. nature to people, Jon captures theadvice light, plays withan perspectives I have amateur photographer forbeen about 10unique years, and took the I have been an amateur photographer light, plays with unique andfor the latest special effects about 10 people years, andperspectives took the of many and started myadvice own for abouthis 10 years, and tookeffects the advice and the latest special to of make images stand out. many people and started my own I company, Freeze Frame Photography. of manyhispeople and started my to make images stand out. own www.imagesbygillies.com company, Freeze Frame Photography. I enjoy running, reading and officiating company, Freeze Frameand Photography. www.imagesbygillies.com enjoy running, reading officiating I (basketball, softball) enjoy running, reading and officiating (basketball, softball) (basketball, softball)

Jon Gillies Gillies Jon

DougSully Sully Doug

Doug Sully

Doug Sully Sully Doug Jenelle Quigley I have lived in Oxbow, Saskatchewan

Ifor have Oxbow, Saskatchewan thelived pastin 16 years.on Ia farm teach inhigh Born and raised southern for the English past 16 and years. I teach high school Social at the Saskatchewan, I grewStudies up enjoying school English and Social Studies atI the Estevan Comprehensive School. simplistic beauty of the vast space and the Comprehensive School. I haveEstevan a wife, Kim, and two daughters, faraway horizons of the prairies. I have have a wife, Kim, and two daughters, Jennifer (19) attending the U of Regina, been fortunate to experience many Jennifer (19) attending thewill U ofbe Regina, and Stephanie (16) who going incredible adventures spanning the and Stephanie (16) who will be going into grade 12. I was born in Yorkton, SK, globe haveincontributed greatly into grade 12.youngest Iwhich was born Yorkton, the second of five boys. SK, to my passionof forfive life,boys. adventure and the second youngest I have been an amateur photography. I amphotographer grateful to have Ifor have been amateur photographer about 10an years, andby took thethe advice been mentored some most for 10 years,and and took themy advice of about manyrecognized people started photographers inown the of manyindustry. people started my own company, Freeze and Photography. IFrame continue to study the I art company, Frameand Photography. I enjoy running, reading andseek officiating of Freeze photography inspiration enjoy running, reading and My officiating (basketball, softball) to improve my craft. portrait + (basketball, softball) wedding photography business was started in 2009 while living in Cochrane, Alberta. My husband and I moved to this area last summer and are enjoying country living near Tribune. It intrigues me to capture moments that tell a story and how thru a photograph that memory is preserved. BEAUTIphotography.com

Regina. The magazine had amazing Regina. inThe magazine amazing success Regina and then had in Saskatoon. success Regina and then in Saskatoon. When theinpossibility of expanding into the When the possibility of expanding the Weyburn/Estevan market arose, into Brooke Weyburn/Estevan market arose, Brooke jumped at the opportunity to become a jumped in at the the opportunity to become partner venture anticipating thea partner ininthis thearea venture the success would anticipating be just as great. success in this area would be just as great. We want to thank our clients and readers Wethe want to thank ourresponse clients and readersfeedback and look forward for overwhelming of positive CO-PUBLISHER for the overwhelming response of positive feedback look forward CO-PUBLISHER to continued growth in the Weyburn/Estevan area.and Brooke is very CO-PUBLISHER to continued growth in the Weyburn/Estevan Brooke isisto part ownerand and co-publisher happy beowner calling Weyburn home once again. area. Brooke is very Brooke part co-publisher happy to be owner calling Weyburn homeShe once again. Brooke part and co-publisher ofofFine Lifestyles Weyburn/Estevan. Fineis Lifestyles Weyburn/Estevan. She of Fine Lifestyles Weyburn/Estevan. She received her advertising/public relations received her advertising/public relations received her Lethbridge advertising/public relations diploma 2007. BrookeADVERTISING CONSULTANT diploma in in Lethbridge inin 2007. Brooke diploma in career Lethbridge inthe2007. Brooke began her with company inADVERTISING CONSULTANT began her career with the company in Britany has been with Fine Lifestyles began her career with the company in August 2009 as an advertising consultant Britany has been withduring Fine Lifestyles August 2009 as an advertising consultant since September 2011 the early August 2009 as an advertising consultant for the newly launched Lifestyles since September 2011 during the early forstages the newly launched FineFine Lifestyles of the creation of Fine Lifestyles for the newly launched Fine Lifestyles Regina. The magazine had amazing stages the creation of Fine Regina. Theofmagazine had amazing Weyburn/Estevan. With a Lifestyles diploma Regina. The magazine had amazing success in Regina and then in Saskatoon. Weyburn/Estevan. With a business diploma success in Regina and then in Saskatoon. and work experience in success in Regina and then in Saskatoon. When the possibility of expanding into the and work experience in business When the possibility of expanding into the administration, Britany was approached When the possibilitymarket of expanding into the Weyburn/Estevan arose, Brooke administration, Britany was approached Weyburn/Estevan market arose, Brooke to join the team by her sister Brooke, Weyburn/Estevan market arose, Brookea cojumped at the the team opportunity to become to join by herto sister Brooke, jumped atthe theofopportunity opportunity become a a copublisher the Weyburn and Estevan jumped at to become partner in theofventure anticipating the publisher the Weyburn and Estevan partner in the venture anticipating the edition. Britany was already familiar partner in this the venture anticipating thewith success area would be just familiar as great. edition. Britany was already success inthis areawould would bejust just asgreat. great.with the magazines’ success in as Regina and success in area be We want tothis thank our clients and readers the magazines’ success in readers Regina and Saskatoon and thought it would be a great We want to thank our clients and We want to thank our clients and readers for the overwhelming response of positive feedback and look forward Saskatoon and thought it would be a great fitthe for this growth community. is recently overwhelming response ofpositive positive feedback and look for the overwhelming response of feedback andBrooke lookforward forward tofor continued in theBritany Weyburn/Estevan area. is very fit for this community. Britany is recently engaged to Chad Culham and the couple tocontinued continued growth in the Weyburn/Estevan area. Brooke is very to growth in the Weyburn/Estevan area. Brooke is very happy to be calling Weyburn home once again. engaged to Chad Culham and the couple looks forward raising home a family the happy becalling callingto Weyburn home onceinagain. again. happy totobe Weyburn once looks forward raising a family inShe the community thattoshe considers home. community that she considers home. She feels blessed to have the opportunity to be a part CONSULTANT of this exceptional ADVERTISING feels blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of this exceptional publication. ADVERTISING CONSULTANT ADVERTISING CONSULTANT publication. Britany has been with Fine Lifestyles 306 861.1255 • britany@finelifestyles.ca Britany has been with Fine Lifestyles Britany has been with Fine Lifestyles since306 September during the early 861.1255 •2011 britany@finelifestyles.ca sinceSeptember September 2011 thethe early since 2011during during early stages of the creation of Fine Lifestyles stages creationWith Fine stagesofofthe the creation ofofFine Lifestyles Weyburn/Estevan. a Lifestyles diploma CONSULTANT Weyburn/Estevan. Witha diploma diploma ADVERTISING Weyburn/Estevan. With and work experience ina business ADVERTISING CONSULTANT and work experience in business and work experience in business administration, Britany was approached Subreena joined Fine Lifestyles because Subreena joined Fine administration, Britany wasLifestyles approached Britany was approached toadministration, join the team bybusiness her sister Brooke,because co-and of her strong background of the her strong business background to join team her sister Brooke, co- and to join theof team by her sister Brooke, publisher theby and Estevan her close ties toWeyburn the community. Subreena her lived close ties to the community. Subreena publisher of in the Weyburn and Estevan edition. Britany was already familiar with her copublisher of the Weyburn Estevan has Estevan for 12 years with has lived in was Estevan forin2familiar 12 yearswith with her edition. Britany already familiar with the magazines’ success Regina and edition. Britany was already husband Kevin and her children, Kolby husband andwas her 2Regina children, the magazines’ success in andKolby Saskatoon andKevin thought itin would beand the magazines’ success Regina and Landon. She born ina great Guyana, and She born Guyana, Saskatoon and itwas be ainaCanada great fitSaskatoon for thisLandon. community. Britany is South America before coming torecently at andthought thought itwould would be great South before coming tocouple Canada at fit community. Britany recently engaged Chad Culham and the age sixtoAmerica and later studied atisis the University fitfor forthis this community. Britany recently ageforward six and later studied atthe the University engaged totoChad Culham the couple looks to raising aand family in the in of Winnipeg. She received a couple diploma engaged Chad Culham and of Winnipeg. She received a diploma in looks forward to raising a family in the community that she considers home. Shefirst business administration. When looks forward to raising a family in theshe business administration. When first community she home. She feels blessed to have the to be a part of this exceptional saw Finethat Lifestyles, sheopportunity knew it wasshe a great community that sheconsiders considers home. She feels blessed to have the saw Fine Lifestyles, she knew it wasskills great feels blessed to have the opportunity toabe a part of this exceptional publication. place for her toause her twoexceptional best — opportunity to be part of this publication. place forgreat her to usepeople her two best publication. she was with and sheskills had — a 306 861.1255 ••britany@finelifestyles.ca 306 861.1255 britany@finelifestyles.ca she was great with peopleWhen and she had lot of business knowledge. she meta 306 lot 861.1255 • britany@finelifestyles.ca business knowledge. When saw she met withofthe publisher, he immediately her with the publisher, saw her potential and madehe herimmediately a sales consultant. ADVERTISING CONSULTANT potential and made her a sales consultant. ADVERTISING CONSULTANT ADVERTISING CONSULTANT 306 421-6324 • subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Subreena joined Fine Lifestyles because 306 421-6324 • subreenak@finelifestyles.ca Subreena joined Fine Lifestyles because Subreena joined Lifestyles because of her strong business background and of business background ofher her strong strong business background andand her close ties to the community. Subreena her close totothe her closeties thecommunity. community. has lived inties Estevan for 12 yearsSubreena with her has lived in Estevan withKolby her Subreena husband Kevin and for her 12 2 years children, husband and was her 2born children, Kolby has Landon. livedKevin in Estevan for 12 yearsinwith her and She Guyana, and Landon. She inCanada Guyana, South America before coming to husband Kevin andwas her 2born children, Kolby at South America before to Canada at age and later studied atinthe University andsix Landon. She wascoming born Guyana, age six and later studied at the University ofSouth Winnipeg. She received a to diploma America before coming Canadain of a the diploma in business When she first atWinnipeg. age sixadministration. andShe laterreceived studied at business administration. When shea great first saw Fine Lifestyles, she knew it was University of Winnipeg. She received saw Fine knew wasskills a great place forLifestyles, her useshe heradministration. two itbest — a diploma in to business place forshe herfirst towith use her bestshe skills she was great and had—a When sawpeople Finetwo Lifestyles, she she was people and had a lotknew of business knowledge. When met it great was awith great place for hershe toshe use lot ofthe business knowledge. When she met with publisher, he saw her her two best skills —immediately she was great with with the publisher, heher sawknowledge. her potential andshe made a sales consultant. people and had aimmediately lot of business When she met with potential and made her a sales consultant. the publisher, immediately saw her 306 421-6324he • subreenak@finelifestyles.ca potential and made her a sales consultant. 306 421-6324 • subreenak@finelifestyles.ca

Brooke Watson BrookeWatson Watson, Brooke Britany Britany Watson Watson

Britany Watson Britany BritanyWatson Watson,

Subreena Subreena Kaban Kaban

Subreena Kaban Subreena SubreenaKaban Kaban,

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What’sInside

THE

111

DEVIL IS IN THE 50 DETAILS By Meredith heron

18 FEAtuRE StORiES 12 18 28

All About Shoes With Dean Renwick Meredith Heron Design Shell Busey

our hometown attitudes.”

56 64 108 122

While the process of designing a new kitchen may initially appear tedious and grueling, nothing could be further from the truth at Elite Kitchens and Decor. They will help guide you along the way to make sure you are making the right decisions for you and your family’s needs. Whether you have a large kitchen or a smaller one, Elite Kitchens will design something functional and affordable. “Overall kitchens are becoming more functional for busy families. We like to have everything easily accessible and ample room for preparing, cooking and entertaining. Even a smaller space can be highly functional when designed

properly,” say Ken Helfrick, and Décor w the process o in four very is the in-h you will me representativ and determin Second, is the portion of th meet with a andMelinda space is desig the style you pricing and o final step is t phase.

Entertainment Calendar Gordon Ramsay’s hat Favourite sets a Veggies designer apa 100 Years of the Stampede others with good taste or Women in the Oil Field

eye? Details. Knowing whe or leave alone is an art form unto itse though, there is a practicality that lie I’m guilty of not necessarily articula

Electric tankless hot water heaters Electric units heat the water as it passes over an electrical element. To run an electric tankless water heater, you will need to have it hardwired to your circuit breaker/electrical panel. Although, electric tankless water heaters are less expensive to purchase and operate, they typically have less capacity, which makes them less practical for large families or households that consume large amounts of hot water at one time.

Gas tankless hot water heaters

In a gas unit, a gas burner is utilized to heat the water. Gas-powered systems are fueled by propane or natural gas. To operate one of these units, you will need a gas line running through your home to where the water heater will be installed. It can easily provide endless hot water for one major application at a time. This unit is a great replacement for the traditional 40 gallon storage tank water heater.

S...

There are also provincial grants available under the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses program for replacing your domestic hot water heater with a qualified instantaneous gas water heater which you may want check into as well. FLEW

122

ys Twyla. , co-owner of Elite Kitchens with Gary Boutin, describes of getting your new kitchen y easy steps. First, there home consultation where eet with an Elite Kitchens ve to measure the space ne the needs of the family. e product choice and design he process where you will designer (Ken in Weyburn in Estevan) so that your gned the way you want with u want. The third step is ordering and the fourth and the professional installation

art from r a great en to add elf. Often es within. ating the

283

WORKING IN For more home improvement information, to send Shell an A MALE-DOMINATED email, or to watch Shell’s AskShel webcast go to www.AskShell.com 77 Business INDUSTRY

DEPARtMENtS

The Process from the Eyes of the Customer

12 Style 18 House, Home and Properties 56 Dining, Entertainment and Arts Kandace Reich walked into Elite Kitchens and Decor in Weyburn looking for new 68 but when Health and Wellness countertops, she walked out The stories from the customers themselves are what are truly revealing. They paint a real picture of the process and how Elite Kitchens and Décor handle everything.

she had whole different vision. Doing a full kitchen renovation wasn’t as expensive as she thought it would be and with the detailed help from Ken and Kathy the process was smooth and

86 Wheels 108 Sports Leisure & Recreation ilfield work for men and women sensitive projects that leave little room all of the above. And many a nigh Oil is intense.119 It entails long hours,& Gas for error, and you have a very challenging, at three o’clock in the morning I Challenges Women Face Working in the Oilfield – of Mice & Men BY JENNIFER CUGNET

shift work, extreme weather conditions, and substantial time away from home. Factor in that oilfield jobs are big budget, highly technical, time

high stress work environment. In the four years I have worked as a wellsite geologist, I have experienced

asked myself, “Why am I sitting a rig when it’s minus 40 outside, I’m night exhausted, and the rock sam don’t look like they’re supposed to?

STEPPIN’ IT

UP BY DEAN RENWICK

ou know what to expect as soon as you hear it. The sound steadily approaches and as you look, your expectations are confirmed. A woman walks by appearing very “put together” and the clacking heels of her great looking shoes are telling everyone, “Check me out.” It’s not just a matter of simply walking into a store and walking out with a new pair of heels. Nothing is that easy. Remember ladies, the problem with heels is balance. When wearing heels you want to look elegant, sophisticated and graceful. The secret to this is practice, practice, practice - there’s nothing worse than seeing a beautiful woman walking around looking like Bambi on ice! That’s why I always send my grad girls home and tell them to vacuum in their heels. It gives them time to get used to walking around in the shoes, and their mothers don’t mind getting some extra housework done either. There are a few things to consider when picking out your shoes for that special occasion or great new outfit. First, don’t cheap out. The old adage “you get what you pay” for is so true when it comes to shoes. In almost all cases, the more expensive the shoe, the better quality and more comfortable it is. Are you on a budget? Watch for end of season sales. Try to stick with shoes made of natural materials. Leather conforms to your foot, unlike plastic that makes your foot sweaty and swell up. Always pick the right size of shoe. Don’t pull the “ugly stepsister” trick and try jamming your poor feet into shoes that are too small or too narrow. Beautiful slender shoes that look like dainty little

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

slices of of pizza pizza can can make make your your feet feet look look like like bloody bloody pizza pizza slices slices slices with corns, corns, calluses calluses and and bunions bunions when when wearing wearing the the wrong wrong size. size. with When choosing choosing your your shoe, shoe, keep keep in in mind mind that that some some shoes shoes are are When better seen seen when when stepping stepping out out of of aa taxi taxi or or limousine, limousine, but but they they can can better be very very harsh harsh on on your your feet feet and and back back when when walking walking or or standing. standing. be There is is no no disputing disputing that that high high heels heels are are sexy. sexy. Your Your legs legs look look There shapely, your calves are sculpted as your pelvis thrusts forward, shapely, your calves are sculpted as your pelvis thrusts forward, and your your derrière derrière tilts tilts upward. upward. This This all all combines combines to to create create aa and sexier look look and and stance stance for for aa woman, woman, and and can can even even add add aa bit bit of of sexier height. But But too too much much of of aa good good thing thing can can cause cause your your body body ``dis``disheight. ease``. Many Many styles styles of of high high heels heels will will stretch stretch the the foot, foot, causing causing ease``. an unnatural curve and breaking blood vessels. Wearing heels an unnatural curve and breaking blood vessels. Wearing heels all the time can cause shrinkage of the back calf muscles. all the time can cause shrinkage of the back calf muscles. Constant pressure pressure on on the the balls balls of of the the feet feet also also causes causes uneven uneven Constant weight distribution, distribution, making making the the lower lower back back arch arch more more than than weight usual. This extreme curve can be the main contributor to pain usual. This extreme curve can be the main contributor to pain in the upper and lower regions of your back. This is why it is is in the upper and lower regions of your back. This is why it important to to change change up up your your heel heel size size as as much much as as possible. possible. In In important fact, aa wedge wedge is is one one of of the the most most supportive supportive and and comfortable comfortable fact, heels available. available. heels As aa fashion fashion accessory, accessory, the the right right pair pair of of shoes shoes can can make make or or As break the outfit. For something different when stepping out, try break the outfit. For something different when stepping out, try some colour colour blocking. blocking. Accessorize Accessorize that that little little black black dress dress with with some hot pink pink pumps, pumps, aa yellow yellow purse purse and and bright bright turquoise turquoise necklace. necklace. hot

You’ll be be sure sure to to turn turn heads. heads. You’ll For an an elongated elongated leg, leg, aa nude nude shoe shoe creates creates aa visually visually unblocked unblocked For line, and and helps helps balance balance the the outfit outfit by by keeping keeping the the colour colour up up top. top. line, At the the Queen’s Queen’s Jubilee, Jubilee, Princess Princess Kate’s Kate’s nude nude shoes shoes with with her her allallAt red ensemble ensemble helped helped to to complete complete her her look. look. red If you you opt opt for for the the new new shoes shoes with with tassels, tassels, chains chains and and beads, beads, If keep the rest of your look cleaner and more streamlined. Make keep the rest of your look cleaner and more streamlined. Make your fabulous shoe the main focus. your fabulous shoe the main focus. With better better scientific scientific understanding understanding of of posture posture and and balance, balance, With great looking shoes are no longer the taboo they once were. great looking shoes are no longer the taboo they once were. Selection of style and comfort is at an all-time high. There is aa Selection of style and comfort is at an all-time high. There is huge style explosion of architectural heels featuring plenty of huge style explosion of architectural heels featuring plenty of comfortable bells bells and and whistles whistles that that also also look look sexy sexy and and chic. chic. comfortable For women, women, there there seems seems to to be be something something very very therapeutic therapeutic about about For shopping for for shoes. shoes. It’s It’s like like buying buying aa new new hat hat -- it it just just feels feels good. good. shopping Shoes are are sexier sexier than than handbags handbags or or any any other other accessory accessory and and will will Shoes draw an amazing amount of attention. A comfortable shoe is draw an amazing amount of attention. A comfortable shoe is static and reliable. Toni Collette’s ‘In Her Shoes’ character said, static and reliable. Toni Collette’s ‘In Her Shoes’ character said, “Shoes always always fit, fit, unlike unlike clothes.” clothes.” “Shoes urge you you to to go go ahead ahead and and indulge. indulge. Buy Buy the the trendy trendy shoes shoes and and II urge the casual shoes and the sexy shoes…just make sure you get the casual shoes and the sexy shoes…just make sure you get comfort too. too. FLS FLEW comfort

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

Total Effects Day Spa: Indulge In Your Wellness By Nykea Marie Behiel

inda Aitken has been in the wellness business for over 40 years. “I absolutely love it. If I could turn back the hands of time, I couldn’t think of anything more fulfilling than the power of serving people,” relates Linda.

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

In 2003, she opened Total Effects Day Spa. With a growing clientele base, along with expanding her offering to include more wellness options, Linda moved the spa to its new location in 2008. Linda and her friendly team enjoy promoting

complete wellness, rather than solely offering beauty treatments. Spas traditionally offer aesthetic services alone. What makes Total Effects unique is that they have attracted a diverse

offering, and continue to add to their menu. Their mandate is to take care of your total well being, inside and out. “We’re talking about the whole person,” says Linda. Total Effects Day Spa caters to your emotional and physical wellbeing, helping you relieve stress, gain control of your health, and simply to be a better you. For aesthetic services, the spa offers manicures, pedicures, facials, nails, waxing, make up, and body treatments, as well as a full service hair salon. They also offer tanning, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, reiki, nutrition services, personal fitness coaching, physiotherapy, and naturopathic medicine. This is a well-rounded wellness centre, offering a wide range of services all under one roof. A nutritionist will be starting at the spa soon. Equipped with a bachelor of science in human nutrition, Jesse will use her abilities to treat and prevent some diseases. She can help people to understand their relationship with food, how to grocery shop, what to look for on nutrition labels, and other useful information. Her services can be used for a variety of health needs, being tailored to suit the individual. Total Effects Day Spa also now offers the services of a registered massage therapist. That’s exciting, because massage is the number one desired service in the North American spa industry. The benefits of massages are far reaching, including boosting your immune system, relieving stress and addressing some health issues. Through the power of touch and human contact, your experience at Total Effects Day Spa will leave you rejuvenated and relaxed. In a world that has become increasingly technological, the spa is a place you can come to genuinely connect with another human being, physically, emotionally or both. Touching is what they do and it’s always in a respectful manner. The team at Total Effects has a desire to help people and provide services for both rejuvenation and health. “Giving others good service tends to fill your own cup as a human being,” says Linda. Total Effects Day Spa is where we invite you to indulge in your personal wellness. FLEW Total Effects Day Spa 138 1st St NE, Weyburn (306) 834-0303 www.totaleffectsdayspa.ca

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

In need of Some Good Karma?

fter a lot of hard work and dedication, Karma Salon opened in August 2011. With five stylists and 47 years of experience between them, Candice Kievits, Marliss Evans, Kelsey Kabbeke, Tallie Gutzke and Leah Brock are all working as a team to help you find your own unique style and taste. Services offered at the salon are men’s and women’s cuts and styles, colors, “HotHeads” hair extensions, eyelash extensions, facial waxing, ear piercing and tanning. There is one stand up bed with a 12 minute maximum exposure time.

Candice Kievits, Marliss Evans, Tallie Gutzke, Leah Brock, and Kelsey Kabbeke

“One thing very important to us is having a wide selection of natural hair care products to choose from, as a large portion of the modern world is beginning to appreciate a more “from the earth” approach to life.” says Candice Kievits, owner. That being said, Karma offers hair care lines including Surface and UNITE, which are free from chemicals, parabens and sulphates. Great for color treated and natural hair, these products are a wonderful choice for anyone concerned with use of chemicals on themselves. Another great service being offered is a more natural approach to hair color. “Essensity” by Schwartzkopf is an all natural color line that replaces synthetic ingredients with natural ones whenever possible. Free from alcohol, artificial fragrances and colors, paraffin, mineral oils, parabens, and formaldehyde, the color is 100 per cent ammonia and fragrance free. Essensity gives complete gray coverage, and is a wonderful alternative for clients that have had reactions to traditional hair color. Karma also offers more conventional hair color, with Schwartzkopf and Joico being the lines used. There is a wide range of products, including UNITE, Surface, Osis and Label.m, as well as a great selection of tanning lotions, hot tools, lotions and polishes. Located at 134 1st Street N in Weyburn, call 842-5123 to book your appointment, and walk-ins are always welcome. FLEW

Karma Salon 134 1st Street N Weyburn SK Call 842 5123 to make an appointment

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

Experience Clarity Beyond Limits

Ask your optometrist about the Horizon Advantage or call 1-888-400-3937 for a FREE Consultation today!

Dr. Varma, Regina

Horizon Laser Vision Centre Regina 110-1914 Hamilton Street Regina, SK S4P 3N6

Dr. Judelson, Regina

Dr. Conlon, Saskatoon

Horizon Laser Vision Centre Saskatoon 103-728 Spadina Crescent East Saskatoon, SK S7K 4H7

Dr. Sharma, Saskatoon

THE

DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS... By Meredith heron

hat sets a designer apart from others with good taste or a great eye? Details. Knowing when to add or leave alone is an art form unto itself. Often though, there is a practicality that lies within. I’m guilty of not necessarily articulating the how and why, but the client appreciates the many little decisions I’ve made along the way to ensure that their project has a curated feel that evolved over time.

Trade Secrets There is a misconception that working with a designer will cost you an outrageous amount of money. If you are upfront with the budget you have to work with, most designers can find a way to work with you, even if it is just for a brief consultation. Where the true value and savings comes in after hiring a designer, is the way a standard item such as a sofa can be transformed with a few minor modifications. It’s the customization of a standard item without actually having it custom made. Other times, it is entirely worth having furniture custom made. Clients routinely try store floor models out and say “if only”. In my experience, custom is often a more cost-

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effective solution in the long run, not to mention a great investment. I’m happy to say that the trend now in design is to hold off and wait until you can invest in something you will love versus the immediacy of buying something made overseas that comes folded up in a box with allen keys for assembly. My favourite go-to modification is to change the standard two or three seat cushions to one long bench seat. No one likes to sit in the cracks; it’s as simple as that. If you are a napper, this is ideal. You just have to remember like with all seat cushions, you have to flip them weekly so you get an even wear on the cushion.

Embellishments Adding nail heads or contrast piping to upholstery is probably my second favourite way to add a custom detail to a regular item. Sometimes this can be done after the fact, but mostly I prefer to add my requests to the initial work order. Another easy change: wood finish. I will routinely change out the colour of the wood legs on a chair. I’ll opt for a painted finish in a light creamy grey versus the standard espresso finish (If you pronounce it expresso, I’m having your deported).

Fabrics Adding pizazz with fabrics is not something that everyone can do well. Sure people can pick out a popular fabric, and pair it with another. Mixing patterns however, seems to be something few people can do well. Modifying a pattern is relatively easy, but it is often overlooked. Here a stripe has been cut and then sewn on the bias to create a chevron pattern. If you note, the thinness of the stripe makes this feel far more elegant and expensive than many of the chevron fabrics available for sale printed as such. They have then taken the stripe and run it vertically to create a border. Simple, but brilliant.FLEW

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Evolving with

INNOVATION AND OLD SCHOOL WORK ETHIC By Dan Grant Photos DouG Sully

t the age of 18, Joseph Billesberger had a decision to make. He had just been accepted into the apprenticeship program at SIAST, when his grandfather moved down to Estevan to renovate an old church into Billesberger Law Firm. The opportunity to work full-time

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with his grandfather Joseph Sr., was more valuable than school in Joseph’s eyes. “I knew I would learn way more about every aspect of construction from my grandfather, who has been in the industry for over 40 years, doing everything from earthquake proofing, to building grain elevators, water

treatment plants, hospitals, schools etc. The timing was right and it’s hard to turn down the offer to work with your grandfather full-time. Not many people can do that,” says Billesberger when explaining how he got into business with his grandfather.

Joseph Billesberger was born and raised in Estevan and is here to stay. “I want to continue to have a strong relationship with the city of Estevan and the residents,” states Billesberger. There is a lot of home town pride that comes out of Billesberger when he speaks about growing up and wanting to make a highly positive impact on the city through his construction business, B & S Construction. The company has been around for 5 years and has turned into somewhat of a family business with Joseph’s brother and his grandfather’s nephew being a part of the crew. They also have other employees and journeyman on the staff of extremely dedicated workers who want to continue to help grow the company to new heights. That growth continues to occur on a steady basis. With business development, however, comes the need for more help. “Our employees go through the apprenticeship program and get their journeymen ticket in the carpentry trade. Not only does this help them learn but having their ticket helps on any construction site,” says Billesberger. “The construction trade is evolving and there is always something new and exciting to learn. We want our employees to see that there is a career in construction, not just a temporary job.” It’s with that enthusiasm and continual learning that has gotten B & S Construction where they are today. Most of their business comes from word of mouth, which proves how good they actually are. Some companies specialize on certain areas of construction, but not Billesberger and staff. No challenge is too big or too small for them. “We don’t hesitate to do the dirty work and prefer to take control of an entire job ourselves as we have the knowledge to undertake most projects,” explains Billesberger. “As we continue to expand, we strive to purchase more tools and equipment. Our employees are capable of completing everything from new construction, to concrete, to renovations.” Never shying away from any task and having the vision to innovate is what is continuing to separate their business from the others. With the introduction of Polycore, which is a foundation that only requires concrete for the footings and can be set up and ready for floor trusses

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Joseph Sylvestre and Joseph Billesberger

by a small crew in three days, “The system is all engineered and we believe a lot more efficient than your conventional wood and concrete basements,” says Billesberger. As much as B & S Construction continues to grow and develop there will always be a ongoing respect between grandfather and grandson. This is what makes them truly unique and special. It is the main reason why the employees learn as much as they do, from tricks of the trade to work ethic. It’s a passion for doing the job right and leaving no loose ends for the customer that makes this combination as busy as they are. “My grandfather is a great man and at the age of 71, he puts most young guys to shame with his work ethic. I have to watch that I don’t get lazy, especially while he is out doing work that I should be doing,” jokes Billesberger. “I have him

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to thank for everything I have learned and continue to learn every day. The main reason we continue to grow is because of him passing on his knowledge to me and our employees. He is always curious to try new things, such as polycore. For anyone looking for a new career you need to look at someone like my grandfather who enjoys and gets excited about all of our new projects, even while most men his age are only thinking of retirement.” The wealth of experience along with a progressive business approach combined with a sense of responsibility and accountability makes for a bright future for B & S Construction. FLEW B & S Construction. 1017 3rd St. Estevan, SK 306.421.6254 www.bandsconstruction.ca

Rent it. Skid steer loaders, excavators, versahandler, air equipment, attachments, aerial work platforms, generators/ lighting equipment, concrete equipment, compaction, and more. We rent it all.

Contact Tyler at | 306-347-7600 ext. 264

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(l-r) Winston Bailey, Jean Bailey, Mark Robinson, Alvena Dubnyk, Linda Grams, Chad Mc Cannell, Lionel Leonard

COMMITTED TO THE WEYBURN COMMUNITY BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS BY JENELLE QUIGLEY

inston Bailey had built homes and commercial properties in Weyburn and area since 1977, and eight years ago decided to change careers and become a realtor. He understands the construction industry very well and that knowledge and experience translates to the real estate industry. He is committed to his clients and wants them to enjoy their experience with Re/Max Weyburn Realty 2011. Winston Bailey is committed to Weyburn,

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and he’s very active in the community by supporting and belonging to a variety of associations, organizations and charities. “I moved to Weyburn before high school, and a few years later married a Weyburn girl. We will be married for 38 years at the end of August 2012 and we have lived in Weyburn ever since our wedding. We have two children and we were happy to have raised our family here. We are fortunate that our children have decided to make Weyburn their home as well, and raise their families here. Our families continue to

make Weyburn our home because we love this community and we are excited to see it grow,” exclaims Winston. The team is committed to excellence in customer service and they are available any day any time to answer your real estate questions and help meet your needs. “I hate calling a business and getting a recorded message, that’s why at Re/Max Weyburn all calls are answered by a human being. We want clients to know that we are there for them 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Trimount Development in Estevan, Weyburn Development will be similiar

providing exceptional customer service. We are committed to providing a personal connection and developing excellent relationships with our clients. We also have our excellent office manager Linda, who has a great personality and is very good at her job. She is responsible for the day to day operation of our office, as well as fielding our calls,â&#x20AC;? says Winston. The brokerage was founded in 1987 by the previous owner and then in May, 2011 Winston purchased the Re/Max office

in Weyburn. A team of four licensed fulltime realtors are working with him to bring exceptional real estate service to the Weyburn area. The Re/Max Weyburn brokerage is the largest in Weyburn with team members Winston Bailey, Alvena Dubnyk, Lyle Leonard, Chad McCannell and Mark Robinson. The team handles real estate in many of the surrounding communities such as Francis, Ogema, Creelman, Fillmore, Pangman, Radville, Main Prize Park and Yellowgrass, to name a few, as well as acreages and farms. The

Re/Max team is experienced in dealing with residential, commercial, acreages and farms and can provide valuable service to their clients. Re/Max Weyburn is happy to announce that they are the listing brokerage for the Trimount project in Weyburn, which is a new condominium development in the city located at the corner of 5th Avenue and 5th Street North in Weyburn. The first phase of the development broke ground in August 2012, and features the first of two

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39 unit apartment-style condominiums. Ranging from 623 to 907 square feet, these comfortable and stylish one and two bedroom condos come with a variety of features such as eight foot ceilings, phone and cable in each bedroom, appliances and more. Home buyers are also offered upgrades including the choice of three designer colour palettes to choose from as well as appliance and cabinet upgrades. The future development will feature townhouse

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style condominiums. “We have an extensive interview process for our clients to ensure that we understand what our clients want and need. We fully explain the real estate process and whether they are purchasing, selling or building we provide them with all the information we can to suit their lifestyle or business plan,” says Winston. “Buying or selling real estate is a process and we want to make absolutely

sure we get it right so that our clients are completely satisfied. We make sure we are aware of the latest listings so our customers don’t miss out. We don’t want to waste our customers’ time, nor do we want our customers to miss out on an opportunity. We have many years’ combined experience as a team and we are constantly supporting and learning from each other. Our clients don’t get one realtor when they come to Re/ Max Weyburn Realty 2011- they get a team

of experts adept at dealing with any real estate situation. We are always there for our clients and we want them to feel confident they made the right decision by choosing Re/Max Weyburn Realty.”

Winston Bailey Broker/Owner • Residential • Commercial • Farm

The team also understands that there is plenty of information that needs to be explained to first time buyers and sellers. Buying real estate is probably the biggest investment anyone can make and it’s important to the team their clients understand the process. Clients have to be aware of the amount they have available for a mortgage from a bank or mortgage broker. They also have to decide the type of home they would like to purchase, whether it is a condominium, duplex, acreage, farm and so on.

• • • •

Sellers need to be aware of the correct saleable amount of their property in today’s market. Many people that manage the sale of their own home end up selling for much less than their home is worth. Using a qualified experienced realtor increases exposure and ensures your home is exposed to as many buyers as possible to ensure your home sells at the best possible value. Weyburn has a thriving real estate market with many housing starts and people continuing to move to the city. Winston and his team are excited to bring prosperity to Weyburn with their commercial real estate listings and sales. Many businesses and residents are moving from their province to Weyburn, and Re/Max Weyburn Realty is eager to help. Contact Re/Max Weyburn Realty 2011 by calling (306) 848-1000, or stop by their office at 110 Souris Avenue in the City Centre Mall. Visit their website at www. weyburnlistings.com for a complete list of properties and information about the company. FLEW

Eight years in real estate Background in construction – journeyman carpenter Elected to city council in May 2011 Called Weyburn home for more than 40 years

Mark Robinson Salesperson • Residential • Farm • • • •

New to real estate in May 2011 Twenty five years in administration Twelve years sales experience throughout Canada and Northern United States Called Weyburn home for 25 years

Lyle Leonard Salesperson • Residential • Commercial • Farm • • • •

Fifteen years in real estate Twenty three years experience in management of retail lumber, hardware, and agricultural Present chairman of Southeast Saskatchewan Council of Realtors

Chad McCannell Salesperson • Residential • • •

New to real estate in July 2011 Active in sports Active in Youngfellows Charitable Club of Weyburn

Alvena Dubnyk Salesperson • Residential Re/Max Weyburn Realty 2011 110 Souris Avenue, Weyburn ,SK www.weyburnlistings.com (306) 848-1000

• • • •

New to real estate in July 2011 Ten years experience with Sask Housing Corporation Member of Rotary Club of Weyburn and Beta Sigma Phi Member of Toastmaster International

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What is a tankless Water heater? By Shell BuSey

am often asked what exactly a tankless water heater is. Why would I get one? What are the benefits? I see a lot of advertising out there promoting tankless water heaters, but not really explaining what they are, how they work, and how they can be a benefit to you. People are confused. I am going to help you understand what a tankless water heater is, and help you determine if it is the right piece of equipment for you. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well informed home owners decide on a tankless water heater for three good reasons. First, they know that tankless water heaters are used throughout the world where energy costs are high. Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy costs are rising. Secondly, they recognize that a 92 to 97 per cent thermal efficient gas tankless water heater compared to a 50 to 60 per cent standard gas tank type water heater will save money, and help reduce their carbon footprint. Thirdly, the tankless water heater doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t store hot water, but produces it on demand. Tankless water heaters are capable of providing an instant, endless supply of hot water. Because

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these systems function on an on-demand basis, they do not require a holding tank to store pre-warmed water. No storage or holding reserve means that tankless water heaters have a life span that is twice as long as traditional systems because the risk of rust and corrosion is significantly lowered. They are hung from the wall saving floor space. They can be installed almost anywhere. Most have warranties up to 15 years with all parts being replaceable and 100 per cent recyclable. They do cost more initially, but looking at all the benefits including the re-sale value of your home, they are well worth the expense. Tankless heaters are not new to the market. They have a proven record dating back to 1950 in Canada. They come in many sizes to suit your needs. Experienced contractors can help you select the right unit. A tankless hot water heater will save you money, save space, and you will never run out of hot water again. Best of all your home and family will be environmentally friendly.

Gas tankless hot water heaters In a gas unit, a gas burner is utilized to heat the water. Gas-powered systems are fueled by propane or natural gas. To operate one of these units, you will need a gas line running through your home to where the water heater will be installed. It can easily provide endless hot water for one major application at a time. This unit is a great replacement for the traditional 40 gallon storage tank water heater. There are also provincial grants available under the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses program for replacing your domestic hot water heater with a qualified instantaneous gas water heater which you may want check into as well. FLEW

For more home improvement information, to send Shell an email, or to watch Shellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AskShell webcast go to www.AskShell.com.

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Mortgage FAQs What is a Home Equity Line of Credit? A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit that allows you to use the equity in your home to borrow money. A flexible alternative to a traditional mortgage, a HELOC lets you determine your own monthly payments, as low as interest only. You can access up to 80 per cent of the appraised value or purchase price of your home (whichever is lower), less any prior outstanding mortgage charges. As your mortgage balance decreases, your available credit increases.

Tara Ford TD Mobile Mortgage Specialist 306.421.3938 tara.ford@td.com www.tdcanadatrust.com/msf/taraford

Use your available credit to: • Renovate your home • Purchase a vehicle or recreational property • Take advantage of investment opportunities

Why is it important to be pre-approved? Knowing how much you can afford to spend on a home and finding the right way to finance it are two of the easiest ways to increase the comfort of home ownership. Before falling in love with a potential new home, you may want to obtain a preapproval. This will help you stay within your price range and spend your time wisely by looking at homes you can afford. The pre-approval meeting is the time to find out about different mortgage products that are available to suit your particular needs. First-time buyers may want to ask about special programs such as the five per cent down payment options and the federal government’s RSP Home Buyers’ Plan. Once the mortgage is pre-approved, TD Canada Trust commits to the interest rate for 120 days with no obligation. You can shop with confidence, knowing how much you can spend on the home of your choice.

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What different types of mortgages do you offer? TD Canada Trust offers a variety of flexible home mortgage options, including Fixed Interest Rate Mortgages and Variable Interest Rate Mortgages.

Fixed Interest Rate Mortgages Fixed Rate Mortgage With interest rates and payments that won’t change during the term you select, Fixed Rate Mortgages give you security and peace of mind, with terms up to ten years. Six-Month Convertible Mortgage Take advantage of interest rate fluctuations. Get the typically lower interest rate of a six-month mortgage, with the option of converting to a longer closed term at any time with no additional cost. One-Year Open Mortgage Prepay any amount of your mortgage, at any time, with no administration costs

and no prepayment charges. Plus, get the flexibility to convert your mortgage at any time to a longer term without a fee. CashBack Mortgage Get up to five per cent of your mortgage principal up front1, in cash, when you take out a five, six, seven, or ten year term fixed rate residential mortgage.2

Variable Interest Rate Mortgages Closed Variable Interest Rate Mortgage Pay an interest rate that will change with the TD Mortgage Prime3 rate for the full five year term of your mortgage. Open Variable Interest Rate Mortgage Get the flexibility to increase your payments to any amount at any time. You can also make lump sum payments of any amount at any time without paying compensation fees (an administration fee applies in year one and two only). Home Equity Line of Credit Pay your mortgage at your own pace. You determine your own monthly payments and you can pay off all or part of your mortgage4 at any time. Mortgage rates are subject to change at any time without notice. People are talking about historically low interest rates and Saskatchewan’s successful housing market, but what does that mean for you? Whether you are a first time homebuyer or an experienced one, contact Tara to discuss your options. She can grant you preapproval for home financing or help you decide which mortgage option is the best for you. FLEW Up to a maximum of $50 000 Some conditions apply. Applies to residential properties only and is subject to meeting TD Canada Trust credit-granting criteria. Offer may be changed, extended or withdrawn at any time without notice. 3 Rate changes when TD Mortgage Prime changes 4 Available only on revolving portion. 1

Bar-T Constructi

Specializing in New Residential and Commercial Renovations

Bar-T Construction is a family-run business that has been serving Regina and So

since 1983. Saskatchewan Please visit our showroom at 1150 Park Street to talk with our amily-run business that has been serving Regina and Southern the new and innovative and energy efficient exterior finishes available fo sit our showroom at 1150 Park Street to talk withabout our knowledgeable staff

ovative and energy efficient exterior finishes available for your •next project. Roofing • Cultured Stone • Soffits, Fascia , Eavestrough

• Vinyl Siding • Cement Fibre Siding

• Cultured Stone Miller Well Servicing, Weyburn

• Soffits, Fascia , Eavestrough

• Decking – Weatherdek & Moistu

Bar-T Construction

• Roofing • Exterior Insulation • Aluminum Railing • Vinyl Siding bre Siding • Decking – Weatherdek & Moistureshield • Paper & Wire • Cement Fibre Siding • Vinyl Fencing is a family-run business that has been serving Regina and ulation • Aluminum Railing Southern Saskatchewan since 1983. Please visit our showroom • Acrylic Stucco • Exterior Insulation • All-Weather Windows Dealer re • Vinyl Fencing • Paper & Wire at 1150 Park Street to talk with our knowledgeable staff about • Dryvit Exterior Insulated Systems • Do-It-Yourself Packages Also Av • AcrylicFinish Stucco cco • All-Weather Windows Dealerexterior finishes the new and innovative and energy efficient • Dryvit Exterior Insulated Finish Systems available for your next project. ior Insulated Finish Systems • Do-It-Yourself Packages Also Available • Cultured Stone • Soﬃts, Fascia, Eavestrough • Decking - Weatherdek & Moistureshield Aluminum Railing 1150• Park Street | Regina, Sk. | 306.789.977 • Vinyl Fencing

150 Park Street | Regina, Sk. | 306.789.9777 1150 Park Street Regina, SK | 306.789.9777

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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

306.537.0607 WWW.DGLSUNCOAST.COM DGL.INC@SASK TEL.NET

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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 bar-bque. The roof can be made of screening to allow an uninhibited view of the sky with other roof options available.

DGL Suncoast SCREEN ENCLOSURES

Weyburn

1510 New City Gardens, Hwy 39E 306.842.4686

Emerald Park/ Regina

Gator XUV 550

1023E Utility Tractor

John Deere XUV 550

John Deere 1023E Utility Tractor

Starting at $9,900

• With 54” auto connect deck • •

(Drive on Drive off Mower) Frontier RT1149 Tiller And a D120 Loader

Package price $18,900

#8 South Plains Road West Emerald Park 306.721.5050

Moose Jaw

1731 Main St. North 306.692.2371

Montmartre Hwy#48 306.424.2212

Southey

Hwy 22 & Hwy 6 306.726.2155

Raymore

Hwy #6 North 306.746.2110

Mossbank

609 Main Street N 306.354.2411

Assiniboia Hwy 2. North 306.642.3366 Peter Desiatnyk and Dwaine Obst

South Country Equipment Ltd. is a Full Line John Deere Agricultural, Lawn and Grounds Care, and Spray-Center dealer. Now with 8 locations in Southern Saskatchewan our mission is to make South Country Equipment Ltd. Your first choice for Parts, Sales and Service.

southcountry.ca Prices and model availability may vary by dealer. Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. Available at participating dealers.

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Budget Blinds educates in safety By Mackenzie Brooks PHOTOS caL FeHr

or all families, our loved ones come first. The team at Budget Blinds sees themselves as a family of friends, and through interaction and working closely together, also sees their customers as part of the extended Budget Blinds` family. When the sales team at Budget Blinds was put in touch with a Saskatchewan family who recently lost their young child to an errant blind cord, they gained another Budget Blind family member. They also found an opportunity to educate themselves on how to best equip customers for window covering safety in the home. It’s true: blind cord safety is a topic we do not often think of until there is a reason. “Until we met this family, and as we got to know them better by working with them to make their home safe, we all believed that this kind of story is something that never actually happens,” says Budget Blinds owner, Leanne Fisher. “As parents we’ve all heard the stories, and this family had too, pulling the blind cords up over the safety cord cleat. It’s something you never think you’ll experience, and because it’s such a profound loss, we felt that we had to better educate ourselves about the hazards that blind cords pose,” she continues. “We knew we had to offer safety solutions to our clients. It’s just too important.” Safety standards in window coverings have changed since 1996. If you have modern blinds, or even Roman shades, Budget Blinds wants to help you to make sure your window fashions are as safe as they can be. As a first step in their

safety education, Budget Blinds has made it their new mission to reach out to clients, both old and new, to educate them about blind safety. “We want our own families to be safe,” says Leanne. “It just followed that we would pass this information along to our clients as well. It was something that touched us deeply, and we wanted to make sure that we educated as many people as we could to help avoid this same issue,” she adds. “The most common reaction we’ve had from our clients is that they were grateful that we brought it up, and that it’s something they didn’t often think about.” To ensure their clients’ safety, Budget Blinds is offering retrofit kits to make older blinds safe, and bring them up to current international standards. “It’s important to make these options available to our clients. It’s not about selling anymore; now it’s all about doing the right thing for others,” says Leanne. Retrofit kits are available at no cost by going to the Springs Window Fashions website, and clicking on the child safety link at www. springswindowfashions.com. If you’re curious about the safety of the window coverings in your home, or you want to explore new window coverings that offer the most up-to-date fashions and safety standards, contact Leanne and the Budget Blinds team at (306) 949-2300 for information, safety consciousness and beautiful window coverings. With Budget Blinds, you can have the best of both. Ask the team how; they want to educate you and your family. FLEW

LEFT (L-R) Myla, Lyza, Leanne and Maggie Fisher

Leanne

Natalie

Amanda

Sharon

Tracy

a style for every point of view 534 University Park Drive, Regina, SK Regina: 306.949.2300 Estevan: 306.634.5328 Weyburn: 306.842.5328 e: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com

Inspirations by Color:

MakIng Your HoMe refleCt You By Nykea Marie Behiel PHOTOS JeNelle QUiGley

esigning the interior of your home is very exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Pulling together your hobbies, inspirations, functional needs, and incorporating your personality along with current trends will transform your home into a space you love spending time in. The friendly staff at Inspirations by Color has made discovering this harmonization their livelihood. Owner Crystal Quilliams, and her staff, are passionate about design. After working for Heart and Home for a

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number of years, Crystal bought the company in 2007 and gave it her own creative flair, including changing the name to Inspirations by Color. She added a number of services and continued to build a friendly and effective team. Tamara Vollmin, one of the in store consultants, has always spent hours looking at design mediums and going through the creative process. Before Pinterest, she kept scrapbooks and file folders full of every design subject— lighting, colours, home accents and

anything else that caught her eye. Through so many years of researching her passion, Tamara has become very knowledgeable in the process of creating a unique space. While she has her own style, the process at Inspirations by Color is about tailoring beauty and functionality with your individual sense of style. Having moved to Estevan area in 2000, she loves the city, especially the creative and arts community. “It’s nice to be a part of this,” says Tamara. The staff at Inspirations by Color loves being able to fuse together their work with their

passion for creativity and design. Along with the team of in store consultants, Crystal also offers the option of her coming to your home to help you identify changes you want to make. She will look at your space and ask the right questions to help determine your style and what colour scheme will work well for you. This is especially helpful if you know you want a change, but are unsure of where to start. If you have a fabric, colour, canvas, or piece of furniture, the experienced team at Inspirations by Color can help you build around your concept. “People should bring something that inspires them, even if it is just a picture or an idea,” says Crystal. The team can help design flooring, lighting, paint, wallpaper, light fixtures, cabinetry, furniture placement, and anything else you might require help with. Crystal wants to make this process fun and comfortable. She can even help you find and custom order furniture, pictures, or whatever you need to build character in your home. “There are so many options,” states Crystal, “if you have the smallest idea, we can narrow things down into a more manageable selection.” “Often, it comes down to colour,” says Crystal. She and her team can match almost any colour through their vast selection of Sico paints. You can bring in a single colour or a colour scheme you like and let this well-informed staff help you get started. Inspirations by Color also employs a seamstress who can custom make drapes and fabric accents in any colour and style you choose. The passion and creativity in the air at Inspirations by Color is palpable. Visit this knowledgeable team to transform your home into a comfortable space that reflects you and your lifestyle. FLEW

Inspirations by Color 1101 5th St., Estevan 306.634.7008 inspirations@sasktel.net

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Build it Tight, Ventilate Right.

Lonny Forrester President P. 306.543.8111 C. 306.570.9934 www.envirofoaminsulation.com lonny.forrester@envirofoaminsulation.com The building envelope is a total system of construction materials and design components that control the temperature, movement of air, and moisture both into and out of the building. A building’s insulation, air barrier and vapor barrier all need to work together to achieve a more stable, comfortable and healthier indoor environment. Many new materials and design practices are being implemented to extend the sustainable service life of buildings and homes. Ventilating the Attic and the Crawl Spaces has long been the traditional and code required method of home design and building. However, ventilation of these spaces was required because standard materials and building design practices were not capable of addressing radiant heat transfer, condensation, and the results of “stack-effect issues.”

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In order to address heat transfer from weather issues, utilities, and the formation of moisture due to condensation and air infiltration, the only option was to ventilate the attics and crawl spaces. The major problem with ventilating these spaces is that the air brings moisture, pollution and other adverse problems and challenges with it. Furthermore, the vents to allow it in create voids in the building for insects and rodents to enter, and all our nice conditioned air that escapes, or is pulled from the living spaces to exit. In fact, in the summer, the incoming air needs power consuming fans to bring it in, and it will never get any cooler than the outside air temperature. Why would we want 95 degree hot, humid, potentially pollution ridden air into our attic and crawl space? In the winter this air is freezing cold. If our heating/cooling utilities and ducts are located in the attic and/or crawl spaces (most usually are) then their radiant contact with the ducts will cause them to lose up to ten per cent or more of the hot or cold air flowing through them due to radiant transfer. Worse yet, moisture and mold can also form within the ducts during certain temperature conditions, causing adverse health effects to the building occupants or your family. Another major reason that traditional methods call for attic ventilation is that during the hot summer months, heat from the sun builds on the roof and radiates into the attic space. In fact, it can build to upwards of 130 to 150 degrees or more. This extreme heat radiates into the attic and the living space causing

condensation and the potential for mold. Our air conditioning systems also need to work harder and consume more energy with all this heat directly above our heads. The extreme heat also makes it very uncomfortable to enter these spaces. Most builders and design professionals are not familiar with modern materials and progressive building science techniques that can virtually eliminate all of these problems that force the traditional, less effective requirement for ventilation in these building spaces. Builders and design professionals will also make the argument that your home needs to breathe. Well, they are absolutely correct. But why rely on cracks, gaps and holes in your building for passive ventilation, when you can build your home tight, healthy and energy efficient, and let the mechanical ventilation systems due the job properly. Spray foam insulation can still provide benefits far greater than traditional materials such as fiberglass and cellulose, regardless of whether you decide to ventilate these spaces or not. By using spray polyurethane foam insulation you can increase your home’s energy performance, structural integrity and air quality. For more information regarding the building envelope and proper insulation, call Lonny and the team at EnviroFoam Insulation. FLEW

HELPING CREATE A KITCHEN THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES

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(l-r) Gary Boutin-Co-owner, Kathy Helfrick-Weyburn Office Manager, Ken Helfrick-Co-owner

t’s the cornerstone of every house. Whether you are preparing meals for your family or appetizers for your guests, you spend a great deal of time there. When you awake in the morning it’s where you go to make a pot of coffee and cook up some eggs or have a bowl of cereal. It’s also where you may find yourself late at night before bed grabbing a late night snack to make sure your hunger is satisfied throughout the night. It is the place where you can spend hours preparing appetizers and meals for your house party or family event. The kitchen is the heart and soul of the home and for a lot of people it’s also a central place where they gather to do homework, play games, entertain, converse, etc. Your kitchen is a crucial part of not only your house, but your life. Your kitchen has the ability to change the feel and

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functionality of your entire house, so it needs to be designed and organized to best suit your needs. Renovating your kitchen can seem like a daunting task. Choosing a place to help you with that process is critical. At Elite Kitchens and Decor they understand and will do everything in their power to make sure you are happy and totally satisfied with your kitchen and kitchen needs. Since 2007, they have been doing exactly that. “We spend a lot of time with the homeowner to find out what their lifestyle is like and what their primary needs in the kitchen are. We listen closely to determine their tastes and style so we have a good idea of what is most important to them,” explains Twyla Senchuk, office manager at the Estevan Elite Kitchens and Decor. “With the technology we use, it allows

the customers a full visual of what the kitchen will look like upon completion, therefore simplifying the process.” They have been incredibly successful helping people in Weyburn, Estevan and surrounding area create gorgeous kitchens at competitive prices. The reason for that success is glaringly obvious when you talk to them about the idea of your new kitchen. That reason is a passion for service that even makes monotonous tasks like measuring the size of your cupboards seem exciting. “I am personally passionate about service,” says Kathy Helfrick, the office manager at Weyburn’s Elite Kitchens and Decor.“ I feel it is what defines us and separates us from the competition. We are dedicated to getting the job done properly, having competitive prices, and

our hometown attitudes.”

properly,” says Twyla.

Ken Helfrick, co-owner of Elite Kitchens and Décor with Gary Boutin, describes the process of getting your new kitchen in four very easy steps. First, there is the inhome consultation where you will meet with an Elite Kitchens representative to measure the space and determine the needs of the family. Second, is the product choice and design portion of the process where you will meet with a designer (Ken in Weyburn and Melinda in Estevan) so that your space is designed the way you want with the style you want. The third step is pricing and ordering and the fourth and final step is the professional installation phase.

The Process from the Eyes of the Customer The stories from the customers themselves are what are truly revealing. They paint a real picture of the process and how Elite Kitchens and Décor handle everything. Kandace Reich walked into Elite Kitchens and Decor in Weyburn looking for new countertops, but when she walked out she had whole different vision. Doing a full kitchen renovation wasn’t as expensive as she thought it would be and with the detailed help from Ken and Kathy, the process was smooth

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(l-r) Melinda Bath-Designer, Twyla Senchuk-Estevan Office Manager, Nicole Tessier-Schnell-Office Assistant

and simple. Ken sat down with Kandace with a number of designs he created. They then went over specifics to make sure Kandace got the exact kitchen she wanted. “Kathy has been really awesome to call if I have questions or even when I go in to pick some countertops. She was very good at helping me make some of those decisions,” says Kandace. All she needed to bring in were some measurements and a rough design of where everything was situated currently and Ken took it from there.

“So I know it is going to be done really well. They have been awesome to work with. Anytime I had a question they were there to help and make sure I was comfortable with everything. I would highly recommend them to anybody who was looking to do a kitchen.” FLEW

“They are very picky, which I love because I’m very picky,” laughs Kandace.

1207 4th St. Estevan, SK 306 637.7740

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Elite Kitchens 123 2nd St. Weyburn, SK 306 848.0290

“We recently purchased our first home, we loved the size and location but it hadn’t been updated. I was worried about what we were getting into when we decided to redo our kitchen but Elite made the renovation easy. The whole team was amazing to work with from start to finish. The thing that surprised us most was the difference our kitchen renovation made to change the look and feel of our entire home. We love our new kitchen,” states Brody Ward.

Professional Installations and the Importance of It

Chris Tarnes

Owner of the Floor Store

The Floor Store 104 Highway 47 Estevan, SK S4A 2A6 p: 306.634.5588 f: 306.634.8950 e: floorstore@sasktel.net

There are so many options in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world of flooring and the Floor Store staff has to be up to date on all things flooring. Our customer usually has a lot more on their minds than just picking their flooring. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s usually things like cupboards, baseboard, plumbing and electrical trade-work being done at the same time. Leave the worries of the flooring install process to us. Between our two locations, we have some of the best installation crews in the industry. Their care and professionalism will put you at ease the minute they walk in the door. Not only are they excellent

at installing the flooring. These guys are also great with the preparation aspects. Without proper prep work being done prior to the install, the finished product can and will fail for the end user. In a lot of instances, there can be multiple layers of flooring already in place. In nearly all cases, these layers should be removed, and the floor should be floated out (feathering out rough spots). Not only does this provide a nice, smooth floor to work on, it also gives your adhesives a proper bonding surface. Little things that can become big problems if left untreated.

Our stores cater to all sectors of the flooring world. Whether you have a commercial project, new home build, renovation and insurance work, or even just a small project like a bathroom, the Floor Store is always ready for what you throw at us. We are also pleased to show our work to potential customers. Many of our prior clients are willing to let others look at some of the work we have done for them. A big thank you goes out to ALL of you for that. So put yourself at ease and take a trip to the Floor Store. Your local, hometown, hard working flooring team. FLEW

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SEARS: COMMITTED TO SERVING ESTEVAN AND WEYBURN BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES

(l-r) Linda Bruneau, Trudy Hala, Lori Veroba. Missing: Sue Canning

ESTEVAN SEARS

he Sears store in Estevan is managed by Linda Bruneau and offers you a wide variety of product to either buy in-store or order from the huge Sears catalogue. They carry an extensive line of major appliances, electronics, lawn and garden, mattresses, small household appliances and even a small selection of tools. In 2007, Sears decided to remove all furniture from the showroom floor, but you can still order a wide variety of great looking and long lasting items. “We can provide just about every major brand out on the market today for our customers,” says Bruneau.

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Keeping the customer happy and satisfied is a major part of how Sears in Estevan operates and they have become a very trusted resource for a lot of customers. A few years ago they were voted number one for being the most trusted major appliance dealer by customers. “We try very hard to give great customer service,” says Linda. “Our goal is to provide great service to our customers; by shopping locally we are able to achieve that goal. Obviously we cannot stock every item that Sears provides but we can get it here usually within the week.”

Shopping locally is important to Sears. They want to be a factor in helping the community of Estevan grow and flourish and that’s why they are so intent on doing whatever they can to get you the right item for your home. Gift with purchase. Receive a Frigidaire Gallery portable induction burner with purchase. Retail value $169.97. (minimum purchase of $1000) You can visit Sears in Estevan at 1310 7th Street. You can also call them at 634-6431.

(l-r) Andrew Kradovill, Michelle Severson, Geraldine Bocian, Jack Carleton

WEYBURN SEARS

hree years was all it took for Jack Carleton to outgrow his original Sears location and relocate to a much larger space. It was in 2000 when he purchased the Sears store that was located in the Weyburn Mall. He moved it to its Government road location and it has been there thriving ever since. The new spot allowed Jack to not only increase current inventory, but also bring in a variety of new products. Immediately the Weyburn location became the communities largest appliance retailer, since Sears has access to well over two thousand appliances from all major suppliers.

Customer service is an important part of the picture at Sears in Weyburn. Whatever you need, the sales consultants are more than willing to take their time and guarantee that you are fully educated to make the proper decision for you. So whether you are renovating or building you can rest assured that all your answers can be found at Sears. “My fiancé Geraldine and her sister Michelle are the heart and soul of the business giving the store personality,” says Carleton. “They are very dedicated to the customer’s needs.” They

carry

wide

variety

products from lawn and garden mowers, tractors, tillers, patio furniture, and barbeques. The electronics section is chalked full of televisions and home theater options giving you plenty of entertainment options. There is also a large sleep gallery, with many brand name sleep sets available to give you the right options for you. Open seven days a week Sears in Weyburn is located at 134 Government Rd. N. in Weyburn. You can also call them at 842-2681 or email at searsweyburn@ sasktel.net. FLEW

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From left to right: Larry Knibbs, Dick Michel, Susan Minard, Gene Minard

MINARD’S STEADFAST HOMES:

THE RIGHT HOME AT THE RIGHT PRICE BY NYKEA MARIE BEHIEL PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

ene and Susan Minard began Steadfast Homes as an addition to Minard’s Leisure World in 2008. They wanted to provide people and families with quick, quality and affordable housing to suit their lifestyle. Now, Dick Michel and Larry Knibbs work as the knowledgeable sales team to get you the home you want. “We look after our customers,” says Dick simply and genuinely. “I enjoy it, and I have experience with housing that I can share with people,” Dick continues. Dick spent 40 years as

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a manager in lumber retail and came out of retirement when he recognized this unique opportunity. Having built a good rapport with industry professionals, Dick is able to help accommodate you with trusted service people. Along with Dick and Larry, the Minard’s have put together a friendly and accommodating team whose goal is to provide you with the home you want and need. Kathy Coroluick is the Steadfast administrator, Irene MacDonald is the accountant and Angie Dunn is the photographer and website coordinator.

At Minard’s Steadfast Homes, you can buy a ready-made home, office, cabin— whatever suits your needs. This amiable team will help you identify those needs and find a permanent solution. Minard’s Steadfast Homes are ready to move into right away. They are built and constructed in Minnesota at Friendship Homes. All homes are Intertek inspected to meet CSA Standards, ensuring safety and peace of mind for you. Minnesota’s climate is similar to that of Saskatchewan and all homes are well manufactured and made for four seasons, including our

harsh winters. The homes have excellent insulation values, even above Canadian building standards—the ceilings have R44, the walls have R24 and the floors have R28. Homes are well built and include solid oak/vintage cabinets and quality products. There are many benefits to buying a manufactured home. One advantage is not worrying about sub trades and contracting. Everything is already done— wiring, plumbing, drywall, flooring and cupboards. All you have to do is connect the power, gas and telephone.

“Our buying experience was second to none. We believe you can’t have good service without good people, at Steadfast Homes, they have both. A business that really does have a commitment to excellence!!” —Jamie Thomason

Minard’s Steadfast is a one-stop-shop where you can choose your ready made home, saving you time and money. You can know your total cost up front, relieving you from overwhelming decisions and restrictive budgeting. At Steadfast, you can choose from a variety of models, mix and match, or design your own. These homes can also be adapted to fit a basement. “Customers are totally surprised by what’s out there. The stigma of the old mobile home is gone,” says Dick. “We have confidence in what we’re selling.” This confidence is built on quality products and good relationships. This year, Steadfast Homes won the Customer Service Index, or CSI, award. This award is given to a business demonstrative of repeat service with an honest and respected reputation. Minard’s Steadfast Homes was given this award in appreciation of their excellent homeowner care. This award is indicative of the service these dedicated professionals offer. Here, their mandate is to provide you with a premium quality home at a price that suits your budget and lifestyle. Dick and Larry will put you in the right home at the right price. FLEW

Minard’s Steadfast Homes 921 Government Rd S, Weyburn 877-842-3288 mlw@sasktel.net

Jamie Thomason and Rhett Fitzpatrick Proud Steadfast Home Owners

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Weimer’s HometoWn By Nykea Behiel PHotos JoN Gillies

awrence Weimer started his passion for electronics in 1953 when he went to Toronto to take a journeyman electronics course. He moved to Weyburn in 1954 and started his career selling and repairing electronics. In 1970 he ventured out on his own starting Weimer’s Radio & TV, selling radios, televisions and record players when electronics were first becoming popular household items. Lawrence continued to grow his business and in 1982, he expanded and moved for the first time. Doug, Lawrence’s son,

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began working with him at the store. In 1988, Brent and Gayleen Stephanson moved back to Weyburn to work at the family business. In 1997, Doug and Brent bought Lawrence out while he semiretired. Eventually Doug left to teach electronics at SIAST in Moose Jaw. In 2003, the owner of Hometown Furniture retired and Brent seized an important opportunity. Weimer’s Electronics moved into the furniture store and expanded their offering. “It was a no brainer for us,” says

Brent, “with furniture and appliances it gives more reason for our customers to come into the store.” They changed their name to Weimer’s Hometown to honour both businesses and reflect their new wares. Weimer’s now offers electronics, furniture, appliances, bedding and home accessories. For as long as it has been open, Weimer’s has been a family business. Those values are reflected in the customer service and relationships built in the store. All of Brent’s three children worked at the store before choosing their own professions—

L to R: Brent Stephanson, Gayleen Stephanson, Deborah Acton, Brad Johnson, Thomas Bresciani, Shannon Pindus, Lawrence Wiemer, Phyllis Wiemer

tradition and values, Weimer’s has kind professionals to help you every step of the way, from picking out furniture and choosing décor through to full delivery and set up.

Customers enjoy the friendly environment. “Some of our customers are the same ones that were buying TV’s from us when we first opened,” says Brent. This solid reputation is why customers return time after time.

For furniture, Brent and Gayleen offer Palliser, Ashley, Best, Defehr and Buhler. These brands are synonymous with luxury and beauty. Two of the most trusted names in appliances, Whirpool and Maytag, are the ones Weimer’s has chosen to showcase. For mattresses, they offer only the best with Sealy and Kingsdown beds. Brent is proud of Weimer’s selection, which is second to none. Along with their vast variety, if they don’t have something you need, Weimer’s will custom order it for you.

“I want our customers to be happy with their purchases,” Brent states. That is why Weimer’s Hometown carries only top end brands, always offering quality products. They still offer electronics, the department their business was built on. Their main brand is Panasonic, a label known for its innovation, performance and ease of use.

Aside from their top-notch products, Weimer’s is very proud of the trusted reputation they’ve built through 42 years in the community. For your convenience, delivery and set up is available with your purchase. “We set the bed up, put the mattress on and haul away the old bed if you need,” explains Brent. Built on family

Weimer’s Hometown 39 Riverview Drive Weyburn, SK 306.842.6441 www.weimershometown.com

physiotherapist assistant, teacher, and plumber. Brent’s wife Gayleen has also been vital to the operation since she started working there in 2003. Brent is emphatic about his great staff, whether family or not, creating a positive and fun atmosphere.

“I love Weyburn. It’s a great place to be in business and to have raised our family,” says Brent genuinely. “We keep growing and learning—it’s fun. I enjoy getting up in the morning to go to work.” This passion is evident in Weimer’s dedication and customer loyalty. FLEW

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PRIDE THAT SHOWS

PRIDE THAT SHOWS BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES

BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES 50

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in 1953, Scott Westrum’s grandparents Leonard and ack inack 1953, Scott Westrum’s grandparents Leonard and Ila Westrum started Westrum Lumber and it’s been Ila Westrum started Westrum Lumber and it’s been running continuously ever since. It was very common running continuously ever since. It was very common to see young Scott hanging around the old lumberyard to seeon young Scott hanging around His theparents old lumberyard the weekends or after school. were highly on theinvolved weekends or after school. His parents were highly in the business so it was natural that Scott began involved in theforbusiness so owned it was company natural that Scott began working the family as he grew older. working for started the family owned as working he grewpart-time older. What as odd jobs company turned into Whatinstarted as and odd once jobs his turned into working part-time summers education was finished, Scott in summers once tohis education was finished, Scott made theand decision start working full-time for his parents. made the decision to start working full-time for his parents. The family side of the business has never wavered and the

way they carebusiness of their customers been aand constant The family sidetake of the has never has wavered the throughout the years. “As a family business we pride ourselves way they take care of their customers has been a constant in serving our customer’s needs,” says Scott Westrum, when throughout the years. “As a family business we pride ourselves speaking about why they choose certain brands to sell in serving our customer’s needs,” says Scott Westrum, whento their customers. “In order to satisfy those customers’ needs speaking about why they choose certain brands to sell to we have to surround ourselves with suppliers that accept their customers. “In order to satisfy those customers’ needs the same business goals. That is we why we choose to sell we have surround with brands suppliers accept the to most reliable ourselves and reputable in that the industry.” the same business goals. That is we why we choose to sell the most reputable brands and in building the industry.” With areliable product and line ranging from lumber materials to Hunter Douglas window coverings and Para Paint, they also

With alike product line ranging from and building materials to offer a complete line lumber of products and whole packages to Hunter Douglas window coverings and Para Paint, they also whether it be for a new home, commercial building, or backyard only, canline youof expect to findand the best products to suit like toproject. offer aNot complete products whole packages your comecommercial to Westrumbuilding, Lumber, but can also whether it needs be forwhen a newyou home, or you backyard expect to find knowledgeable and friendlyto service. project. Not only, canextremely you expect to find the best products suit your needs when you come to Westrum Lumber, but you can also staffextremely take pride in their jobsand andfriendly it shows,” says expect“My to find knowledgeable service.

Westrum. “As a company we try to provide as many service tools for our staff as we can. From a full fleet of delivery and “My staff take pride in their jobs and it shows,” says loading equipment to paint match computers and product Westrum. “As a company we try to provide as many service knowledge. The more tools we can put in our employees’ tools for ourthe staff as we can. From fulltofleet of the delivery and hands better equipped theya are serve customer’s loading equipment to paint match computers and product needs.” The way the staff at Westrum Lumber handles and knowledge. The ofmore we can putmain in our employees’ takes care their tools customers is the reason that some handsofthe better equipped they are to serve the customer’s the staff has been dealing with the same people for over needs.” theWestrum staff at Westrum Lumber handles 20 The years.way Scott understands that they aren’t and in the takes business care of their customers thebusiness main reason that new some of selling but are inisthe of creating and oldbeen relationships through pride. of thebuilding staff has dealing with the trust, same respect people and for over

20 years. Scott Westrum understands that they aren’t in the “Sometimes say isn’t always new spoken business of selling what but arecustomers in the business of creating andin words. large portionthrough of our business is repeat building old Arelationships trust, respect andbusiness,” pride.

states Westrum. “Every employee in the store plays a part in what building and maintaining those relationships.” “Sometimes customers say isn’t always spoken in It’s with that pride in caring and helping the customer words. A large portion of our business is repeat business,” which started almost 60 years ago that has helped grow states Westrum. “Every employee in the store plays a Westrum Lumber into the success it has become today part and in the building and maintaining those relationships.” best part about it all is that it’s never left the family.

It’s with that pride in caring and helping the customer whichWestrum started Lumber almost is 60located years atago that has NE helped grow 1769 1st Ave in Weyburn, Westrum Lumber success it has you can also into reachthe them by phone at become 842.6681.today FLEW and the best part about it all is that it’s never left the family. Westrum Lumber is located at 1769 1st Ave NE in Weyburn, Westrum Lumber you can also reach them by phone at 842.6681. FLEW

1769 1st Ave NE, Weyburn, SK phone: 306-842-6681

Westrum Lumber 1769 1st Ave NE, Weyburn, SK phone: 306-842-6681

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(l-r) Standing: Mel Van Betuw, Lloyd Hicks. Seated; Robyn Layden, Heidi Bousfield, Rosie Young, Ross Joorisity

FULL SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES

eyburn Carpet One has been in business for over 40 years, and they know their stuff. The business was started by Bernard Van Betuw, and his son Mel Van Betuw took over the business in 1980. Clark Gordon and Scott Sabados purchased the business from Mel in July of 2012, and they are eager to carry on the Carpet One tradition of excellence. Scott has been with the company for 30 years, and he is in charge of installation. Clark has 10 years experience with the company and 30 years of retail experience, and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in charge of sales for the store. Carpet One is a buy in cooperative franchise that

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has many locations throughout Canada. Scott and Clark are eager to provide exceptional customer service, and grow with the dynamic city of Weyburn. The store carries more than just carpet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; customers may choose from a wide variety of flooring options along with paint and window coverings. The flooring options include carpet, vinyl, ceramic tile, hardwood, cork, and laminate. Weyburn Carpet One caters to anyone building or renovating their homes plus they also serve commercial clients. Weyburn Carpet One has a large inventory, and carries many quality brand names of

flooring, paint and window coverings. Carpet One is a cooperative buying group that has over 1000 locations throughout Canada and the US. The store will install all types of flooring, as well as window coverings. Weyburn Carpet One offers enhanced manufacturer warranties, and installation completed by Weyburn Carpet One is warrantied for the life of the product. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the store can also help with your insurance claim by providing quotes for your insurance provider. The store has an experienced team

Scott Sabados and Clark Gordon

offering free consultations to its customers that are building or renovating their homes. Bring in the blue prints for your new home, and the design team will help you with choosing everything for each room from the flooring to ceiling light fixtures. They will help you coordinate your home to ensure the walls, floors and everything else looks professionally decorated. Weyburn Carpet One is a one stop shop for your home or business providing service and products for every taste and budget. The sales professionals are trained to ask the right questions, guide you through their easy-to-understand selection

systems, and work with you to create exciting solutions. Weyburn Carpet One experts provide free estimates to ensure accurate pricing. “Our design crew loves what they do, and they are very talented and knowledgeable. We are very happy to offer this free service to our customers. Our customers appreciate having professionals assist them with their home décor. People that are building a new home are oftentimes unaware how many choices they have to make. Our people are experienced with new home building, and are able to guide

our customers through the process. We provide our customer with the confidence to show off their new or renovated homes knowing their homes look beautiful. Our customers also appreciate the professional and efficient installation service that we provide. Scott has been installing for Carpet One for 30 years, so he is very experienced and knowledgeable in all aspects of flooring and window covering installation,” explains Clark. “Our mandate is to provide exceptional customer service from the time the customer enters our store to after the

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installers have finished the project. We are here to answer any questions they may have during the entire process, as well as any questions or concerns they may have after the installation is complete. Our customers provide us with excellent referrals, and we are excited to work with anyone wanting to beautify their home or business. Weyburn Carpet One is building towards the future with Weyburn, and growing with the community. We strive to provide exceptional service and competitive, affordable pricing. We want to provide our customers with the knowledge and confidence to make the right choices in flooring, paint and window coverings. We provide convenience and affordability by being a one stop shop for home and business décor,” says Clark. The company is so committed to customer satisfaction that they provide The Beautiful Guarantee™. Carpet One Floor & Home knows how important it is to feel confident in your flooring selection. You want to know it’s going

to look exactly the way you want once it’s installed in your home. That’s why they offer you unmatched peace of mind with their one-of-a-kind guarantee. They want you to be 100 per cent happy that the floor you’ve created together is as beautiful as the one in your dreams. If not, they will replace it for free - that’s what they call The Beautiful Guarantee™. They also offer a comprehensive warranty system that gives you a level of protection that is tailored to you. SelectAFloor™ is the exclusive Carpet One flooring shopping system that makes it easy to find just the right flooring for your home. They have organized their flooring so you can easily navigate their many offerings based on your tastes and lifestyle with hundreds of types and styles, plus thousands of colours to inspire you. The store is centrally located in Weyburn at 131 2nd Street East. Call (306) 8427511 or visit www.carpetone.ca for more information on how you can beautify

your home or business. One customer raves, “We were impressed with the Carpet One experience. Our salesperson was professional and his knowledge was impressive. The men who installed were exceptional. Their work was superior in every way. We would give all employees our highest recommendation. We had some difficulties with our outdoor paving and moving. These fine men went over and above to help us. I do not know of any other company that would be so accommodating. They were not only great craftsmen, but true gentlemen.” FLEW

Weyburn Carpet One 131 2nd Street NE Weyburn, SK 306 842.7511 www.carpetone.ca

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ESTEVAN AND WEYBURN ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR

fall 2012

SEPTEMBER Sept 2, 2012 2:00pm Regina Roughrider Football

Sep 21, 2012 7:30 pm Spectra Place Melville Millionaires VS Estevan Bruins

Sept 2, 2012 Noon Stoughton Rink Stoughton Horse Club Rodeo and Trade Show

Sat Sep 22, 2012 10:00am Weyburn Golf Club WGC Club Championship

Sep 7-9 2012 Estevan Exhibition Grounds Estevan Rodeo

Sept 23, 2012 2:00pm Regina Roughrider Football

Sep 10, 2012- 7:30pm Spectra Place- Estevan Weyburn Red Wings VS Estevan Bruins

Sep 25, 2012 7:30pm Spectra Place Melfort Mustangs VS Estevan Bruins

Fri Sep 14, 2012 1:00pm Weyburn Golf Club Southeast Regional College Swing for Scholarships Golf Tournament

Sep 28-30 Spectra Place Estevan Business Expo

Sep 14, 2012 at 7:00pm Spectra Place-Estevan Hard Knocks Fighting

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OCTOBER October 12-13 2012 Estevan Legion Hall United Way 36th Annual Telethon

October 24-27, 2012 EstevanArt Gallery Andrew King: Welcome to the Circus

Oct 6, 2012 Spectra Place Estevan Bruins vs. Weyburn

Oct 26, 2012 Spectra Place Estevan Bruins vs. Battleford

Oct 9, 2012 Spectra Place Estevan Bruins vs. Yorkton

Oct 26-27, 2012 Weyburn United Way 31st Annual Communithon

Sat Oct 20 Mosiac Stadium Rough Riders

Sat Oct 27, 2012 Mosaic Stadium Rough Riders

Oct 20 Spectra Place Estevan Bruins vs Flin Flon

October 28-30 2012 Estevan Curling Club Regional SCA Juvenile Instructional Camp

October 24, 2012 Weyburn Municipal Election

October 31, 2012 11:00 am Weyburn Livestock Exchange Regular Cull Cow & Bull Sale

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ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

THE KING OF SHOW PRINTING BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS DOUG SULLY

e was the first poster printer in all of Canada. He was the owner and publisher of the Rouleau Enterprise in Rouleau, SK. It was a small town operation that grew into

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international recognition and turned him into a Canadian icon. Andrew King started creating and printing show posters in 1912 as a side business to the local small town newspaper.

King had a major role in the printing industry in Canada and by the 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s his company, Enterprise Show Print, was the only full-time show printing plant in the whole country. He was a self-taught

carver who created his posters on wood blocks, which were sometimes as high as seven feet tall. He became famous because of his unique ability to carve wood blocks from which multi-coloured pictorial posters were produced at his plant. In fact, he was the first man to ever do such a thing. In 1944 King bought The Estevan Mercury and relocated from Rouleau. He then named it King Show print but still ran the business as a newspaper facility co-owned and operated with his two sons. Due to the technology that began appearing in the 1950’s the poster printing industry began to die out and King sold his business in 1958. The legacy he left, however, is rather startling and because of the delicate carving process, he left an impact on printing history that will never be forgotten. Nearly 80 years later you will be fortunate enough to view North America’s largest

public collection of King’s collections for yourself between the dates of Friday, September 24 – Saturday, October 27, 2012. The King exhibition will be entitled, “Andrew King: Welcome to the Circus.” On October 20th, the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum will be hosting an Andrew King Art Auction and Fundraiser starting at 7pm. “All funds generated from this event will go towards the maintenance, development, and promotion of our Andrew King collection, the largest public collection of his works in Canada,” states Amber Andersen, who is the director and curator at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum. Be a part of this fantastic event that will include catered carnival themed h’ordeuvres, an open bar and a unique carnival styled photo area where you can have your photo taken by Chris Graham (your pictures will be printed on the spot). During the event Estevan’s Art Gallery and Museum’s Andrew King publication

will be available and you will be given access to the events exciting live and silent auctions. “This event marks the return of art auctions taking place at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum, which we are all very excited about,” says Andersen. To learn more visit the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum at 118 4th St Estevan, SK S4A 0T4 or contact them by phone at 634-7644, by fax at 634.2940, by email at eagm@sasktel.net or by visiting their website at www.eagm.ca. FLEW

Estevan Art Gallery and Museum 118 4th St Estevan, SK 306.634.7644 fax at 634.2940 eagm@sasktel.net www.eagm.ca

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(l-r) Karen Merkowsky, Denis Gervais, Stephanie Boulding, Melinda Nickloski

GIBBY’S PUB: GOOD TIMES, RELAXING ATMOSPHERE BY NYKEA MARIE BEHIEL PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

ev McKinnon and her husband Cliff opened Gibby’s pub just over 13 years ago. Their intention was to create a fun and relaxing atmosphere where people could feel comfortable and familiar. After many successful years in business, it is clear they have done just that. Locals and visitors feel at ease in this pub, often stopping in for food, drinks, or even just to visit. The pub where everyone knows your name, or at least wants to learn it, Gibby’s has an inviting and familiar atmosphere.

The boom in Estevan has brought in many new people to the city, and Gibby’s Pub is a great place to come to meet others and get to know them better. Of course, there are many patrons who have been visiting Gibby’s since its opening 13 years ago as well, providing a great mix of people. “Everyone talks to everyone,” says Bev. The low-key surroundings provide an excellent backdrop for friends, both new and old. Gibby’s has always had a family feeling. At one time or another, much of Bev’s

family has worked here. A friendly face and name that many regulars remember is Bev’s niece, Jade. Having always been kind and ready to help, Jade worked at karaoke, bartending—wherever there was help needed. “People used to come in just to see her,” says Bev. Jade was vibrant. Sadly, Jade has passed away, but her memory lingers at Gibby’s. Another aspect of family at Gibby’s is karaoke. Started by Bev’s daughter, Brandi, when she came home from university, karaoke is a tradition

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Stephanie Boulding

that’s enhanced the lively, youthful atmosphere. Gibby’s was voted number one karaoke in the city by Estevan Mercury Readers Choice this year, and they never fail to live up to this fun and exciting reputation. Karaoke Thursdays are the busiest night of the week where people can come in to sing, dance, or just take in the familiar surroundings. With a digital selection of over 25,000 songs that is constantly

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being updated, everyone is sure to find something that catches their interest and vocal range. Bev understands the importance of keeping a current song list, and is always updating the vast selection. Karaoke is a time when people of all ages over 19 stop in to enjoy the atmosphere and take in the music. The varying ages offer a fun and dynamic environment where everyone is comfortable and

welcome, no matter what singing ability you may (or may not) possess. The Bose sound system is second to none, and makes sure sound comes through crisp and clear, rather than blurred and difficult to interpret. Bev knows the importance of a good sound system in a bar, and was happy to invest in the top of the line speakers. This is great not only for karaoke, but for all nights at Gibby’s Pub.

Friday is a busy night at Gibby’s as well, though the atmosphere is completely different. More laid back than karaoke Thursdays, Fridays are a time when people who have worked all week settle in to unwind and reward themselves for a hard week of work. Friendly staff mingles with patrons, and customers get to know each other. Put some change in the jukebox, or just sit back and let the amiable staff serve you with food or drinks.

has something to offer you. Choose your music and listen to that chosen by others.

Aside from the friendly people, Gibby’s also offers VLT machines; pool tables, Deer Hunter, and touch screen video games. Patrons often enjoy challenging each other to a little friendly competition. Of course, for nights other than Thursdays, Gibby’s has a digital jukebox full of songs, old and new. Whether you have a tendency to country and pop, or you are more into rock and folk, Gibby’s

The staff is always ready for a good time. Gibby’s has a party for Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, and any other momentous occasion. They also bring in live bands and entertainment occasionally to give patrons a new experience.

While you are taking in the friendly atmosphere in the pub, Gibby’s has the classic offering of pub grub and finger food—chicken fingers, mushrooms, fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and more. Food that compliments a cold beer and hard day of work, served by a smiling employee and easily shared with a friend.

The most notable and important aspect of Gibby’s is the people, both staff and patrons. Everyone is friendly and inviting.

“People really feel welcome,” effuses Bev. She loves that people come to her pub to unwind, and hires staff that work hard to make people feel comfortable. “Anyone that walks in the door is welcomed by staff and clientele,” says Bev. This is a bar for locals, visitors, and newcomers. The personable and friendly staff wants you to enjoy yourself. Visit Gibby’s Pub to experience the one of a kind atmosphere. Open MondaySaturday 9:30a.m. -3:00a.m., and 12:00p.m. -8:00p.m. on Sundays. FLEW

Gibby’s Pub 1138 5th Street Estevan, SK 306 634.7707 bevmckinnon@hotmail.com

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goRdonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FaVouRite Veggies

This month Gordon Ramsay gets back to basics, choosing his favourite vegetables and demonstrating the best way to roast, grill, steam and pan-fry them for the ultimate flavour PHOTOS LISA LINDER

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Beets, leeks & onions HEALTHY OPTION

Swiss chard & kohlrabi with lemon sauce HEALTHY OPTION

I grew up eating lots of vegetables, and they are so crucial I make sure my kids get some with every meal

HEALTHY OPTION

Spicy Roots

There’s so many out there that you can’t get bored – and you don’t have to be a vegetarian to enjoy them. I’ve been serving vegetarian menus at my restaurants for five years now and there are some wonderful dishes waiting to be discovered Courgettes & chicory with black olive dressing

Gordon shows you how Turn over for the recipes

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Roasting Beets, leeks & onions These robust vegetables are great to roast and they really work well together. You can serve hot or leave to cool in the marinade and eat the next day.

READY IN 1 HR SERVES 4-6 MODERATELY EASY SUPERHEALTHY – counts as 2 of 5-a-day 1kg small raw beetroots, peeled and halved 2 onions, peeled and quartered 10-12 baby leeks, trimmed 4 large garlic cloves, peeled 4 tbsp olive oil 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary 4 bay leaves about 100ml balsamic vinegar

1 Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7. Heat a heavybased oven roasting pan on top of the stove and toss in the vegetables and garlic. Sprinkle with the oil. Stir until they start to brown. Add the herbs, sprinkle over the vinegar and season well. 2 Put the pan in the oven and roast for about 15 mins, then reduce the heat to 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 and continue cooking for another 30 mins or so, stirring 2 to 3 times until the beetroots are tender. If the vegetables start to burn, add a little more oil and vinegar to the pan. Serve as a vegetable dish scattered with toasted pine nuts or as a main course with baby goat’s cheese, cooked white beans and rocket. PER SERVING 252 kcalories, protein 7g, carbohydrate 31g, fat 12g, saturated fat 2g, fibre 8g, added sugar none, salt 0.43g

Pan-FRYing Spicy Roots Salsify is a really underrated root vegetable which looks a little like a white carrot and has an earthy, asparagus-like taste. It needs a good wash before cooking and, when peeled, you will need to rub it all over with lemon juice to stop it discolouring.

READY IN 25 MINS SERVES 4-6 SUPERHEALTHY – high in fibre, low in fat

1 Cut the parsnips and carrots into lozenges of about the same size. Peel the salsify under cold running water and rub with the cut lemon at the same time. Cut off the woody core and slice into similar sized lozenges.

MODERATELY EASY

3 parsnips, peeled and trimmed 3 carrots, peeled and trimmed 1-2 salsify (about 250g, optional) 1⁄2 lemon 1 tsp mild curry powder 1 tsp Chinese 5-spice powder 3-4 tbsp olive oil 25g butter 2 garlic cloves, peeled fresh marjoram leaves or flat-leaf parsley

2 Sprinkle the parsnips with curry powder, and the carrots and salsify with 5-spice. Heat a large pan with the oil, then toss in the vegetables. After a minute, add the butter and garlic, season and continue to cook, stirring often, for up to 10 mins. If the vegetables start to colour too much, stir in 2-3 tbsp water to stop them burning. Toss through the marjoram leaves, allow to wilt then serve. Try serving this alongside lamb or robust game. PER SERVING 179 kcalories, protein 2g, carbohydrate 17g, fat 11g, saturated fat 3g, fibre 6g, added sugar none, salt 0.45g

goRdon’s secRets oF success ROASTING

STEAMING

• Robust roasting gives a really good colour and flavour to vegetables • Make sure all the vegetables are cut to the same size so they cook evenly • Start the cooking on the stovetop to make sure you get them nice and browned • Use a large roasting pan to make sure the vegetables don’t steam

• Great for protecting vegetables and keeping all the goodness in • Choose delicate vegetables for steaming • Put any leftover herbs in the water for steaming as it will help to perfume your vegetables

steaMing Swiss chard & kohlrabi with lemon sauce Both of these vegetables are underused in this country. In France the root of Swiss chard is as popular as onion, while kohlrabi – a relative of cabbage – has a rustic taste, a bit like cauliflower.

READY IN 30 MINS SERVES 4-6 SUPERHEALTHY – good source of folic MODERATELY EASY acid and vitamin C 1 bunch Swiss chard (about 500g) 1 lemon, grated zest and squeezed juice 1 kohlrabi, peeled and halved 300ml vegetable stock 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 100ml olive oil large sprigs fresh rosemary, tarragon, coriander and parsley 2-3 garlic cloves

1 Cut the white chard stems from green leaves in a V shape, slice diagonally into 5mm strips. Slit the leaves in half, roll 3-4 at a time like a cigar, thinly slice. Put in a bowl and scatter with a little lemon zest. Thinly slice kohlrabi and sprinkle with zest also. 2 Boil the stock and lemon juice to reduce by half. Pour in a jug and mix in the chopped parsley. Cool, whisk in most of the oil. 3 Put the rosemary, tarragon and coriander into a steaming pan with the garlic. Cover with water and bring to the boil. Fit basket on top. Sprinkle base with salt and pepper and lay in the kohlrabi. Scatter over white chard and season again. Top with the sprigs of parsley. Drizzle with oil, cover and steam, 5 mins. Remove parsley and scatter over the green chard, lifting up the white vegetables lightly with a large fork. Cover and steam for 3-4 more mins. 4 Remove to a serving dish and pour over some sauce to serve. This tastes wonderful with grilled salmon or a chicken breast. PER SERVING 255 kcalories, protein 4g, carbohydrate 8g, fat 23g, saturated fat 3g, fibre 2g, added sugar none, salt 0.93g

gRiLLing Courgettes & chicory with black olive dressing Chicory can be quite bitter, which is why it’s a good idea to rub a little sugar on it before cooking. Salt will help to draw out the moisture

READY IN 20 MINS SERVES 4-6 LOW CARB SUPERHEALTHY – counts as MODERATELY EASY 1 of 5-a-day 2 large courgettes, ideally 1 yellow, 1 green 4 tbsps olive oil 2 heads chicory 1 tsp sugar FOR THE SAUCE about 2 tbsp black olive paste or tapenade juice 1⁄2 lemon 1-2 tbsp red wine vinegar 3-4 tbsp olive oil olives (try Kalamata) and capers, to serve

1 Slice the courgettes diagonally about 1cm thick. Season and toss with half the oil. Halve the chicory. Season with salt, pepper and sugar and toss with the remaining oil. 2 Heat a griddle until very hot, then lay on the vegetables in a single layer. Cook for up to 10 mins, turning as necessary until just tender. Remove to a large serving plate. 3 Mix the olive paste with the lemon juice, vinegar and olive oil (you don’t need to season). Trickle over the vegetables and scatter with olives and capers to serve. This tastes great served with pork chops. PER SERVING 244 kcalories, protein 2g, carbohydrate 6g, fat 24g, saturated fat 3g, fibre 1g, added sugar 1g, salt 0.23g

PAN-FRYING

GRILLING

• This is most chefs’ favourite way of cooking vegetables as you have so much more control over the cooking • Make sure you cut everything to the same size so that it cooks evenly • I like pan-frying vegetables from raw, it ensures none of the flavour is lost. Make sure you don’t overcook; they should have a bit of a bite to them • Make sure you don’t pile up the vegetables – they should be flat in the pan

• Gives a really good charred flavour to food • Make sure the vegetables are covered with oil to protect them while they grill • If using larger vegetables, cook them first and finish off on the grill

Back row Laurel Hildahl, Pam Martin, MIDDLE Diane Marklinger, Nola Joseph, Cindy Burham. FroNT Lucille Michel, NEW Owner

Full Body Workout For Busy Women By Nykea Marie Behiel PHOTOS TeeNa roy

“I

’m a busy mom and volunteer, so I don’t always find much time for myself,” says Lucille Michel, new owner of Curves. She has worked here for six years, and is familiar with the concept, the women, and the business. Curves is effective because it provides a complete cardio and strength-training workout in just 30 minutes, burning up to 500 calories. Stations consist of hydraulic resistance equipment that works every major muscle group. This hydraulic system is safe and easy on the joints, making Curves a great fit for all women. Your circuit coach will motivate you and make sure you are performing the motions effectively. Whether your goal is to lose weight, gain energy or tone your body, the Curves circuit will work

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for you. It is essential to compliment cardio exercise with strength training, something that is often a missing component in women’s fitness. Curves has developed the CurvesSmart® program, a personal coaching system designed for your individual needs. Every piece of equipment is programmed with your information to provide constant feedback. CurvesSmart® adjusts to your body’s endurance to ensure you are constantly challenged. Inserting your data card into the machines, your information will appear on the computer screen— attendance, calories, muscle power and muscle group—to help you reach your full potential. It computes your workout data into progress reports, showing you how close you are to your goals.

To compliment your program, Curves offers a complete line of dietary supplements and multivitamins as well. Lucille is taking a course to facilitate the new Curves Complete weight loss program, which she will offer. This 90-day challenge is designed for people looking to jumpstart their weight loss goals. “It’s a really fun and motivational place to come,” says Lucille. She is proud of the success her members achieve each day. Visit their website to see research and testimonials from women who have achieved their goals. FLEW Curves for Women 1212 4th St, Estevan 306.634.3395 curvesestevan@sasktel.net www.curves.com

Shelley Kievits and client Bonnitta Kerr Thai Yoga Massage , Thumbing Sen on Sole

Thai Yoga Massage, Rolling Pin

Table massage

A MIX OF ANCIENT AND PRESENT THERAPY

helley Kievits, a registered massage therapist, opened up New Dawn Wellness Center in 2006 and together with Linda Heibein, they have been helping the people of Weyburn ever since with their alternative health treatments.

Therapeutic massage Everybody needs to relax every now and then and massage is a perfect way to do so. Massage helps reduce stress, muscle aches and pains, sleep problems, depression and immune system malfunction. Shelley has a little Eastern flare to her massages working with a mix of reflexology, meridian therapy, plus both acupressure and trigger points. Shiatsu for headaches and migraines is another class that intrigues her, as she suffers from migraines too.

BY Dan Grant PHOTOS jon Gillies

With and Amethyst Bio-Mat on the table, FIR (far infrared) rays increase circulation letting more oxygen into the injured areas and helps reduce pain and speed up healing. FIR rays also aid in the regeneration and normalization of damaged cell tissue.

Thai yoga massage Thai yoga massage is a fully dressed form of massage that is done on a padded mat on the floor and wraps stretching, relaxing, yoga and massage all into one. Pressing and stretching are all that’s involved and due to a gradual shortening of our muscle length because of our daily life’s activities Thai massage helps to relieve them. It’s a firm but relaxing massage that leaves you with an incredible stretch. Shelley also uses muscle compression, joint mobilization and acupressure during treatment. She offers 90 minute sessions to help rejuvenate and give you more energy.

VerticalVibrationTherapy Vertical Vibration Therapy offers therapeutic and exercise opportunities for all ages. It increases cellular oxygen, enhances cellular nutrient uptake, stimulates cellular fluid movement and aids cellular waste removal to accelerate the body’s natural healing response. In a matter of only ten minutes it will give you the benefits of a one hour workout. New Dawn Wellness Center is located at 134 1st Street in Weyburn. You can call to book your appointment at 842-1717. FLEW New Dawn Wellness Center 134 1st Street Weyburn, SK 306.842.1717

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Wellness and Preventivate Care for Pets

health. Regular health exams pick up on changes and trends in your pet, allowing us to take care of any problems quickly and proactively. The veterinarian will listen to the pet’s heart and lungs, check their eyes, ears, and teeth, feel their abdomen for enlarged organs or masses, and also monitor any skin lumps or bumps that could be a concern. Do not underestimate the importance of taking your pet to the veterinarian for regular wellness exams. These exams will help your pet live a longer and healthier life, so do your part to care for your furry friend.

Vaccinations

Dr Carol Ross Veterinarian Prairie Animal Health Centre 108 Breeze Street, Estevan SK 416 7th Street West, Weyburn, SK praireanimalhealthcentre.com A healthy pet is a happy pet, and the best way to keep your pet healthy is to focus on preventative care.

Nutrition Nutritional excellence is an essential beginning to a lifetime of good health. Veterinary foods have high quality ingredients, excellent digestibility, and veterinary research behind their formulation: much more important than a feel good advertisement on TV. What you feed your pet is going to reflect in their overall health, and longevity of their life. Table scraps, extra treats, and “people” food are insufficient, high calorie, and unhealthy foods for your pet.

Annual health exam In one year, pets age the equivalent of seven years. For this reason, annual veterinary exams are vital to your pet’s

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Infectious disease once killed thousands of pets per year, but then we started vaccinating. Vaccination became one of the greatest success stories of veterinary medicine, saving countless lives. That being said, we still see animals getting sick and dying from these diseases in south east Saskatchewan. By getting your pet vaccinated regularly, you are doing one of the most important, yet simple preventative measures possible. As a puppy or kitten, your pet will receive a series of three booster vaccinations, and then will receive booster vaccinations as needed on an annual basis.

Dental care Dental disease affects seven out of 10 cats and eight out of 10 dogs over age three. Dogs suffer mostly from periodontal disease, while cats get gingivitis and resorptive lesions. We all know how much a tooth ache hurts. You should be taking care of your pet’s teeth in some way, shape, or form: brushing is an option, and there are also dental foods, chews, treats, and mouth washes for dogs and cats. An unhealthy mouth leads to overall ill-health, and there’s research proving that individuals (pets as well as people) with poor oral hygiene don’t live as long those with good oral hygiene.

Keeping parasites away If Benjamin Franklin had a dog and a microscope, he would have added parasites to his famous saying about death and taxes. Pets can be born with worms; they get them in the milk from

their mom, from the dog park, from eating mice, or from digging in the flower garden. Although your dog or cat will usually show no signs of parasitism, some pose a serious health risk to humans. Veterinary dewormers treat all the common internal parasites safely and effectively, unlike the products found at retail outlets. Cats are particularly sensitive to toxicity from over the counter flea and tick products.

Exercise Is your dog barking non-stop, ruining your yard, chewing on everything it can get its mouth on? Is your cat climbing the drapes, scratching up your furniture and meowing non-stop? Remember, a tired pet is a well behaved pet. Pets need exercise and they love to move especially if it’s with you. One in two pets are overweight, which means an increase in arthritis, respiratory compromise, diabetes, and a reduced life span. There is no excuse for an overweight pet; take some time out of your schedule and walk your dog or play with your cat. Whether it’s a game of fetch or playing with a string toy, every little bit counts. But remember to always keep the prairie weather in mind; you don’t want to give your pet heat stroke or frost bite. FLEW

Access to Capital – Securing Financing for Your Business

Whether your business is at the planning stage, the start-up stage or the expansion stage, often the most challenging question facing entrepreneurs is “Where do I get the money I need to proceed?” One of the biggest issues faced by small businesses is the inability to access sufficient credit and capital. How can you access the financing you need for your business to take that crucial “next step?” We can help.

L-R: Marion Scott, Cory Harkness, Michelle Howse, Verna O’Neill

Cory Harkness General Manager, Sunrise Community Futures Toll free: 877.851.9997 Direct: 306.842.8803 sunrise.cfdc@sasktel.net www.sunrisecommunityfutures.com

Depending on your individual circumstances and your business requirements, the options available to you may be plentiful or slim. When searching for a business financing package that suits your needs most people recognize their local banks and credit unions as possible options. But often banks and credit unions are unable to meet all of your business financing needs. Additional financing solutions could be only a phone call away!

“Our offices provide solutions to the challenges that entrepreneurs face in accessing capital.” -Cory Harkness, General Manager at Sunrise CF.

Laura Small, M.B.A. CEO, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. 108-502 Cope Way, Saskatoon, SK 306.477.7173 100-1919 Rose Street, Regina,SK 306.359.9732 info@womenentrepreneurs.sk.ca www.womenentrepreneurs.ca

Sunrise Community Futures (Sunrise CF) and Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (WE) are non-profit developmental lenders that each offer start-up and expansion loans of up to $150,000 to small business. But what if you need more than $150,000? Not only can Sunrise CF and WE be alternatives to banks and credit unions, our two business development organizations can also work together or alongside your primary financial institution, financing the

portions of your business venture that banks and credit unions simply cannot. “Our offices provide solutions to the challenges that entrepreneurs face in accessing capital,” says Cory Harkness, General Manager at Sunrise CF. “We spend time with new business owners to discuss their available financing options and work to find the best fit for their businesses. Our clients are often not aware of the many financing options available to them. We regularly work with banks, credit unions and other non-traditional providers of capital in larger business financing projects. Our goal is to reduce the barriers to accessing capital in order to create sustainable, successful small businesses in our region. We are your access-to-capital consultants.” Sunrise Community Futures is a non-profit organization that assists entrepreneurs in southeast Saskatchewan with business development. Offering business planning assistance and cash flow projection development, hosting assorted business training sessions and providing loans and access to capital information, Sunrise Community Futures wants to help you acquire the resources necessary to run a successful business. Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan is a non-profit organization that serves women owned businesses across Saskatchewan. By providing support services, expertise and financing, WE can assist you in making your business everything you want it to be in a comfortable learning environment. It is important to acquire the skills and support you need to work on your business rather than just in it. FLEW

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MIKE’S STORY

Not knowing what that was, Mike started doing research and, while trying to learn more about the available options, was in touch with his friend Connie, a real estate agent in Saskatoon. “I’ve known her forever and had been talking with her about doing something one night and she told me she was going to do it, to get the procedure with Melanie through Weight Loss Forever. She went a month before I went and that’s what really got it all rolling,” he says.

affected everything—my work, my home life—things go smoother and it’s been quite dramatic. It was 26 degrees here today and I’ve never liked heat in my life but I thoroughly enjoyed it, today. I have a new outlook on vacations and life.”

“I’ve been in touch with her on and off through all of it and she’s doing fairly well and things are going great now. For me, it all just kind of happened in six weeks.”

MIKE STUTT BEFORE As an avid athlete in his high school years, Mike Stutt had always been in fairly good shape, keeping fit with many sports, his favourite of which was wrestling. Mike had eight years on the provincial team, four years on the national team and two world championships under his belt; it seemed like nothing could get in his way. But, like many other athletes, life after high school can change routines—switching gym shorts for coveralls and running shoes for steel-toed boots, Mike, now an equipment operator for an oilfield in Algonguin, AB, works 20 days on and 10 days off and learned shortly after he left high school that it’s hard to keep active when you’re working a full-time job and life gets in the way. “It’s something I dealt with since I was in my teens. I was a fairly accomplished athlete in high school, but once I got into the workforce, things went from great to not so great,” says Mike, now 40. “Then in 1997, I was in a motorcycle accident and was off of work for almost two years. My weight went way up and I never really got it back down. At first it wasn’t that bad but it got to the point where I had trouble at work—because I work a 20 and 10 schedule at work—it got to the point where I knew I needed to do something that actually worked.”

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Mike went for his procedure on December 20, 2010. The day he had his surgery, he was at 372 pounds and has since lost 130 pounds. Since the Sleeve worked so well for Mike, his uncle, who has also struggled with weight issues—a trait that seems to run on Mike’s mother’s side of the family—decided to go for the vertical sleeve gastrectomy procedure through Weight Loss Forever this June. “It was practically the most positive medical experience I have ever had. The care was amazing down there. Speaking from being a guy and liking to do sports, I’ve been in the hospital a bit, whether it was for stitches or so on, but I’ve had surgery a few times; I had shoulder and elbow surgeries from the motorcycle accident I had, and this one was just amazing,” Mike says. “Everyone in that clinic was a doctor. And Dr. Pompa came and talked to me for half an hour before she did the surgery; I’ve never met a surgeon beforehand at home and it was just a different twist. I was impressed by it. It was an all around good group of people. I wish I would have done this 10 years sooner. It’s given me back things I’ve lost and it just opens up so many doors and changes so many things, it’s truly amazing. I have a lot of new words in my vocabulary that I’ve never had before, like “medium. I get to shop in stores that don’t start with “Tall and Fat” and it’s been a great adventure that has

MIKE STUTT AFTER - LOST 130 LBS

“I get to shop in stores that don’t start with “Tall and Fat” and it’s been a great adventure that has affected everything—my work, my home life.”

CLAIRE’S STORY

made no sense—I gained everything back!”

As a Registered Psychiatric Nurse, Claire Lajeunesse-Lewko has helped people dealing with mental health issues. Her desire to assist others stems from the emotional difficulties she experienced growing up. Because many of her childhood memories are filled with disparaging remarks, being overweight has been an issue since before she was a teenager.

Claire heard about Weight Loss Forever and was reassured by the fact it was a Saskatoon-based company with follow-up care so she contacted their office to learn more. She was sleeved last December at 164 pounds and within three short months lost over 30 pounds. Because of her medical background, Claire is in a unique position to evaluate the quality of care she received. “The care was second-to-none,” she says. “I’ve never felt more safe.” Since the procedure, her high cholesterol and both knee and hip problems have disappeared. “The work I do now as a facilitator is rewarding; I can pass along my personal, medical and psychological experience,” says Claire. “I understand why certain things happen and can explain that to people. Moneywise, it’s the best investment you can make in your life—for people who have a lot of co-morbidities, the weight loss is enough to take them out of those risk categories.”

“Moneywise, it’s the best investment you can make in your life—for people who have a lot of co-morbidities, the weight loss is enough to take them out of those risk categories.”

Similar to others who struggle with obesity, Claire played the rollercoaster game, losing weight through programs only to gain it back as soon as she made any progress. In 2008, after nearly 40 years of battling, Claire had had enough. At 5’1” and 185 pounds, she opted for the lap-band. “The procedure went well at first and I lost weight, but within a year I was having severe complications,” says Claire. Once it was removed the weight immediately started coming back. I chose the lap-band because it was reversible and that really

www.weightlossforever.ca

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Office productivity and efficiency

by Darlene MacLeod Manager of Training and Consulting Services MicroAge Training 104 – 1777 Victoria Avenue, Regina www.microagesask.com/training.php www.microagesask.com/professionalservices.php ABOVE Derek Pollock, Curtis Rostad, Stephen Schwindt, Darlene Macleod, Andrea Wood, Curtis Bzdel

How can my business increase office productivity and efficiency? A successful, productive office is one where the technology at their disposable is used correctly and efficiently. Unfortunately, sometimes this is easier said than done. Software used in offices today is constantly changing and as a result, organizations and businesses sometimes have a hard time keeping up. The key is to let the software work for you. There are a variety of features built into software that can save time once you understand what software is capable of. One way to gain this knowledge is to attend a training course. Training not only provides you with the skill set you need, but it also can increase your efficiency immensely and improve your productivity. At MicroAge Training, we deliver a variety of classes on various applications of software. Our instructor-led application curriculum includes products from the

Microsoft Office suite, One Note, Adobe products, and web design. We also offer technical training for IT personnel.

- Web design and development

Organizations can send their staff to our training centre in Regina, but another option, and perhaps a more economical one, is to bring the classroom to your office. The application curriculum from MicroAge can be delivered through our Classroom on Wheels -- we can take it wherever it needs to go. We only ask that you have a suitable learning environment such as a boardroom, and that you can provide a data projector. All the equipment and software needed for the course is taken care of. We arrive 30 minutes before class start time to get set up and take everything down once the class is completed.

- Graphic design

Businesses and organizations of all sizes can benefit from training, from small to medium sized companies, to Crown corporations and government offices. Office productivity and efficiency is a positive step forward to ensure your employees are provided with the tools and skill set needed to be successful in their role. MicroAge also offers consulting and professional services, which include:

- Software design and development - SharePoint design and development - Branding and logo design - Desktop and ePublishing - Social media consulting It’s tough for businesses to do this all on their own, especially for smaller companies which often just don’t have the manpower or time. MicroAge can create your website, even a content management system for it. Our software and SharePoint design and development teams will create customized solutions for your office. Our graphic design and branding and logo design teams will give your business a professional polishing touch. If you need help with any of the areas listed above, a partner like MicroAge has the solution. When looking for a technology partner, you want to find a company that has excellent customer service. Nothing is more frustrating than being on hold while facing a pressing technical problem. Which is why MicroAge is a good choice: we have deep Saskatchewan roots, so we treat our customers with the care and attention they deserve as our neighbours. FLEW

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FROM TRADITIONAL TO TRENDSETTING WEYBURN

Express your vision with tile. When it comes to flooring, nothing gives you more options

3 0 6 . 8 4 2 . 7511 131 2nd Street NE, Weyburn, SK S4H 0T7

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and opportunities to express your unique vision than tile. Choose stone, ceramic or porcelain, and arrange it in nearly endless patterns.

Answering Five Questions CAn Help You pursue Your goAls As you strive to achieve your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement, you may, at times, feel frustrated over events you can’t influence, such as the up-and-down movements of the financial markets. Yet there is much you can control — once you determine the answers to just five key questions. Where am I today? Take stock of all your assets — your retirement savings and other accounts. Then do the same for your debts, such as your mortgage and any other financial obligations. On your financial journey through life, it’s essential that you know your starting point.

Tyler Knibbs Your Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. 461 King Street - Unit 3 Estevan, SK S4A 1K6 p: 306.634.4870 e: tyler.knibbs@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Where would I like to be? Once you’ve established where you are today, you’ll need to identify where you’d like to be tomorrow. How much will you need to pay for the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned? Will you be able to help pay for your children’s or grandchildren’s college education? Will you need to support any other family members? At this stage, you’ll want to write down all your goals and put a price tag on each one. Can I get there? After you’ve identified your goals, determine if they are, in fact, achievable. By considering a variety of factors — including your likely future

income stream and your family situation — you should be able to determine if you can attain your goals or if you need to modify them in some way. How do I get there? Now it’s time to put a strategy into action. Specifically, you need to choose investments that can help you pursue the goals you’ve selected. Your ideal portfolio will depend on your risk tolerance and time horizon, but in general, you’ll want a diversified mix of quality investments. While diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee a profit or protect against loss, it can help reduce the effects of volatility. As you put together your holdings, make sure you understand what you can expect from your investments. For example, growth stocks may offer the highest potential returns, but they also carry the greatest risk. On the other hand, investment-grade bonds can offer a steady income stream and, barring the default of the issuer, will repay your principal when they mature. How can I stay on track? Once you’ve built your investment portfolio, you’ll need to review it regularly — at least once a year — to help ensure it’s still meeting your needs. After all, many things can and will change in your life, such as your family situation, your goals, your employment and your risk tolerance. To address these changes, you’ll need to adjust your portfolio over time. As you can see, answering all these questions will take both work and expertise. That’s why you may want to work with a professional advisor to help you identify your goals and create a strategy for pursuing them. In any case, though, start asking — and answering — these five key questions as soon as you can. It’s easier to reach your financial goals if you put time on your side. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Advisor. FLEW

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we haul it all!

24hr service 5 employees 4 years in the industry haul tools, rods, supplies 98% repeat clients 80

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BLUE BEAR HOTSHOT LTD. 521 Princess St. 461-5055 bluebear@sasktel.net

Your Independent Insurance Broker

Professional Expertise

Experience and training enable us to help you decide on the coverage you need. As an intermediary between the customer and the insurance company, we: • provide advice on the type and amount of insurance you can buy; • arranges for the setting up or renewal of a policy, and alterations such as change of vehicle, additional cover ages, and change of use; • assist in making a claim

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Our success depends on your satisfaction, so we select insurers who are financially secure, stable and provide excellent claims service.

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When the time comes to settle a claim, the relationship we have with the insurer can provide valuable assistance toward a successful settlement.

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10-910 13th Avenue North, Estevan, SK T. 306 634.2671 | F. 306 634.8681 www.cathedralinsurance.com

We are pleased to welcome the following companies to our list of industry partners:

The Mutual Fire Insurance of British Columbia Protecting the west. As a distinctly Western Canadian insurance company, we see things just a little differently than our competition. We embrace our customers’ way of life, and take pride in providing innovative peace-of-mind solutions, insurance at cost and unparalleled claims service. Whether you need to protect your home, farm or business, we’re here to help.

Intact Insurance is Canada’s largest home, auto and business insurance company protecting over 3 million customers

Wawanesa Mutual was established in 1896 and ranks as one of Canada’s largest property and casualty insurers with operations throughout Canada, over $7 billion in assets and an A.M. Best rating of A+. Wawanesa Mutual is owned by its policyholders. Its reputation is among the best in the industry.

A GAMBLE THAT PAID OFF by Dan Grant PHOTOS Byron Fichter FotoGraphy

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n November 2004 Marty Hanson and Davin Emmel took a gamble. Emmel and Hanson saw an opportunity arise and decided to take advantage of it. They each took their life savings, quit their jobs as battery operators and bought a screw pile truck. With hard work, determination and good old fashion work ethic, Emmel and Hanson learned and built an increasingly growing company. “We have been really fortunate and the timing was right with the boom hitting in the last 3-4 years,” says Davin Emmel when telling the story of how Dart Services Ltd. got started. With anything that needs a foundation, screw piles can be used. Screw piles are a steal pile that’s turned into the ground leaving no tailings and very little disturbance to the ground. The piles are specifically designed for the soil and ground conditions,” explains Emmel. “In order to get a design we need a geo tech report and loads for the piles. With that our engineers design a specific pile length and depth for the particular application.” Screw piles are a great alternative to concrete piles because they are easily removable and have a much quicker installation time. The other advantage

is once the screw piles are in they are ready to go and there is no waiting on concrete curing. They are also quieter to install then driven piles and are more cost effective. They can handle any type of screw pile job, from small to large and have a wide variety of equipment, including bob cats and track hoes. They also operate concrete pump trucks, which are used to place concrete with ease eliminating the need for wheel barrowing or other difficult methods of placing concrete. Dart Services Ltd. has been responsible with many concrete pumping projects including Estevan’s new hockey arena, Spectra Place. Even though their primary focus is the Estevan and Weyburn area, Dart Services’s expanding business has taken them to work on projects as far away as Thompson, MB and Edmonton, AB. Dart Service’s is a rapidly growing business and what keeps them growing is their knowledgeable, hardworking staff and their hands-on philosophy. “My partner and I are totally hands-on with all operations on a day-to-day basis and are always on job sites. We have a top notch list of employees that are great to work with and know what they are doing,” stated Emmel.

They have built quite a following with companies who have used their services: “Dart Services provided concrete pumping services to our company recently on two large projects in the Estevan area, and we are pleased to recognize Dart as a company that we would not hesitate to work with again given the opportunity. Both of these projects were considered to be very difficult, demanding that reliable services be available to meet our schedule on a 24 / 7 basis. The equipment provided by Dart and their professionalism in its operation exceeded our expectations consistently. Their fully trained operators utilized good safety practices throughout, and without interruption or excuse, Dart ensured the equipment and operators were available to meet our demanding schedules. The difference between a fair operator and a good pump operator as they strategically place concrete for the placing crews can have a huge impact on the productivity of the concrete placing crew and the quality of the placed product. Darts operators were consistently recognized as superior, and we appreciate that.” – Bob Stepp, Senior Project Manager for PCL Construction Management Inc.

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“Davin has been installing screw piles in and around our plant since 2006. I would guess since that time Davin has installed between 500 and 600 screw piles. In some case the engineering company that I am working with at the time will specify the size and type of screw pile to be installed. In this case Davin would order up the required piles, come to site and install them. In other cases the engineering company will provide me with a pile schedule which will only specify the loads that a particular pile will need to support. Based on these horizontal and vertical loads Davin’s group will do a pile design as well to meet the required loads. Over the years we have been very satisfied with the quality of work and service that Davin and his group have provided. In current projects that I am working on now I am having the engineering company that we are using work with Davin early on in the design stage to come up with pile designs that will support their needs before the drawings get to the field stage. This saves time at the start of a construction project.” – Duane Walkeden, Cenovus Energy Hard work and dedication - that’s what makes Dart Services Ltd. tick. It’s a company that appreciates not only the business they receive but also the past and present staff that has helped turn their company into what it is today. Dart Services Ltd. is also very generous by giving back to the community of Estevan, Weyburn, and their home town of Torquay. FLEW

Dart Services Box 1595 #8 Lamoro St., Estevan, SK S4A 2L7 634-7007 dartservices@sasktel.net FRONT Davin Emmel, Dwayne Kittelson, Nelson Dixon, Kendra Fai, Marty Hanson BACK Monte Blomberg, Kelly Friess, Cory Kittelson, Kyle Friess

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detailing | autoglass | tinting

YOUR GLASS EXPERTS Dun Rite stocks over 150 pieces of auto glass All major fleet cards for oilfield are accepted Glass & stone repair are SGI accredited. No appointments necessary Customer Orientated

634.6093

1302 4th St., Estevan, SK dunriteglass@gmail.com FineLifestyles

ESTEVAN/WEYBURN

(l-r) Taylor, Greg, Vance.

ONE STOP HEAVY TRUCK SHOP BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS BY JENELLE QUIGLEY

reg Schwenk started his power unit and semitrailer repair business as a mobile service in 1997. By the end of the first year he had one employee and opened a small shop on the Saskatchewan side of Lloydminster to meet demand. The demand has only grown since then, and he now has a 28,000 square foot shop with 32 employees including journeymen heavy duty mechanics, welders and machinists. In 2009 he opened a smaller second location in Estevan that does pump service, and is a supply house for fluid haulers.

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The shop remains an independent Saskatchewan company owned and operated by Greg. He has the only chassis diagnostic machine in Lloydminster, which helps diagnose any type of engine problems as well as read maximum engine horsepower. The shop is accredited by Saskatchewan and Alberta, so they are authorized to perform safety inspections for both provinces. G Force Diesel are independent shops, which means they can service any brand of heavy truck or semitrailer at the best

price. They are able to order parts from anywhere to get your unit back on the road much faster than a dealership. The shops also donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the same overhead costs as a dealership, which allows them to pass those savings on to their customers. They also have unique after-market products that are hard to find. G Force Diesel is a proud member of Truck Pride, which is a North American purchasing group that ensures the shops adhere to strict standards. They are also able to offer a 12 month warranty on all parts and labour, and they are able to compete with dealershipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; prices. G

Force Diesel is also the only distributor for T & E Pumps in Lloydminster and Estevan areas. Some of the unique products that the Estevan and Lloydminster shops offer are Trux Accessories, Performance Diesel Inc. (PDI) products, Vision X, Lipe Clutch, Goodyear hydraulic hose products, Goodall fluid hoses, and Diesel Force Pyro. Diesel Force Pyro is a digital engine pyrometer designed by G Force Diesel that warns drivers of excessive exhaust temperatures. This is for the safety of the vehicle, driver, and fellow motorists, because if the exhaust temperatures exceed safe levels the engine could be damaged. These shops are very innovative, and build many custom products for their customers. They want their customers to have access to the best products at the best price, even if they have to make the products themselves. G Force Diesel has many services that many customers are unaware, for example rebuilding large engines, or truck rig-ups in the fabrication department. The staff members at G Force Diesel are committed to their customers, and they understand the importance of fast and efficient service. Staff will go the extra mile to ensure their valued customers are back on the road with the least possible amount of downtime. As independent shops, they are able to carry and order parts from many different suppliers. This ensures they are able to get the parts they need as quickly as possible, rather than having to wait for â&#x20AC;&#x153;approved suppliersâ&#x20AC;? as their competitors are forced to do. Visit the Estevan location at 221-4th Street, or call (306) 636-5050. You may also stop by the Lloydminster location at 4403 37th Avenue, or call (306) 8252875 for more information about their products and service. FLEW G Force Diesel Service 221 4th Street, Estevan, SK 306 636.5050 4403 37th Avenue, Lloydminster, SK 306 825.2875 greg@gforcediesel.com www.gforcediesel.com

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FOORD TRUCKING: LeavING a LeGaCy By Dan Grant PHOTOS Jon Gillies

hile most people are still sleeping in their cozy beds at 4:30am, Kelly Foord is getting out of his to prepare for another work day that will last until 9pm, if he’s lucky. It’s been that way every day since he was 16 years old when he started helping his father Vernon with his gravel business. It’s a bit ironic that Kelly started helping his father at that age because it’s

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the same age Vernon Foord was when he started hauling gravel back in the 30’s. Because of his father’s passion and work ethic it is easy to understand why, at a very early age Kelly already knew that one day he would own his own business. “I always just loved playing in gravel and from the time I was 12 years old, I knew I’d be in my own business and running equipment,” says Kelly.

His company grew its first roots when Vernon invited Kelly to buy a truck so he could, “teach me what he could teach me,” as Kelly puts it. Once he was ready he started Foord Trucking in 1982. His first client came because of the Foord name and the impact his father left on his customers. “At that time there were no cell phones so most of the business was done in the evenings or we stopped at a phone booth along the line and

talked to our clients that way,” says Kelly when reminiscing about the days when his company was first starting up. Not being the type of guy to rush into things the business has grown slow and steady for Kelly. His family has played a huge role on the success of Foord Trucking, with Janet, his office manager behind the scenes and their four children Shane, Craig, Rebecca, and Shaylee always there to offer him support. For Kelly and his family it’s always been about more than just hauling gravel, rock, and sand. It’s been about leaving an impact with the customers. Not only does Kelly still have clients he has been working with since the business started, but because of the heartfelt and trustworthy customer service he always brings, he has continued to expand his business. This growth has extended into the oilfields and smaller projects in the city of Estevan. Leaving a legacy in the community of Macoun is also a major role that Kelly and his family have played. About four years ago he and Janet started building a subdivision on a piece of land they owned in Macoun. The day they dug the first trench they had already sold eight of the nineteen lots. “It was basically a little dream that we had, you know, something for the town, to help the town grow, help the school keep going. Honestly that’s one of our biggest accomplishments. At the time there was only 168 people there so that’s a big development for a town that small,” explains Kelly with pride. Kelly cares deeply about his client’s needs and makes sure the job is done fast and efficiently. You can tell from the sound of his voice and words he speaks that Kelly brings compassion and helpfulness to his everyday life. “I like to stay in touch with my clients and when I see they are in a bind and looking for help, I want to try and assist in any way that I can.”FLEW

Foord Trucking Ltd. Box 31 Macoun, SK S0C 1P0 306.421.1049 kjfoord@sasktel.net

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Incorporation

Tom Schuck 319 Souris Ave NE 306.842.4654 www.nswb.com

Sole proprietorship

The majority of small businesses operate as sole proprietorships. The business is carried on by an individual who owns all assets, receives all profits and is responsible for all obligations of the business. Sole proprietorships are economical and simple, but disadvantages include: -unlimited personal liability. -a high marginal tax rate for proprietorship income. -termination of the business on the death or bankruptcy of the proprietor. The proprietor may claim business losses against other income, but once the business becomes profitable, then incorporation offers many advantages.

Partnership

If two or more people operate a business and share profits, they are deemed to be in partnership by The Partnership Act of each province. Partnerships, like proprietorships, are only required to register their business name provincially. A partnership agreement is not mandatory but advisable. Management and profits are shared equally unless varied by a partnership agreement, which also deals with the continuation of the partnership in the event of death or the sale of the partnership. Partnership

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Back: Tom Schuck, Norma Buydens, Ron Wormsbecker Front: Mike Weger, Riley Potter, Andre Wilkins

income and expenses are taxable in the hands of the individual partners. Because each partner is liable for all obligations of the partnership, a high degree of trust and co-operation are necessary.

Incorporation

The risk of personal liability in proprietorships and partnerships makes them unpopular for substantial or risky business. Most profitable businesses incorporate.

Benefits of incorporation

-Limited liability of shareholders. -Lower tax on profits. -Lower tax on dividends to shareholders. -More flexibility for tax and estate planning. -The ability to raise more capital from investors. -A shareholder may claim up to $500,000 as a capital gains exemption on the disposition of his or her shares.

Limited liability

Although the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shareholders only risk the loss of the price of their shares, directors and officers of companies are exposed to certain creditors such as Revenue Canada, the provincial government and employees. Limited liability could also be eroded when lenders, landlords and suppliers insist on obtaining personal guarantees from the principals of a company.

How to incorporate

A business is incorporated by filing with the provincial or federal corporate registry. This calls for: -an incorporation fee; -a name reservation approval; -a memorandum (or articles) that lists the number and class of shares and the company name; -the rules for the operation of the company (called articles or bylaws); -notice of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s registered address. Because the company is a separate legal entity, additional administrative, accounting and legal costs arise. Nevertheless, these costs are usually justified by the benefits of incorporation.

Why a registered office

The Business Corporations Act states that a corporation must have a registered office in Saskatchewan. The Act also requires that certain corporate records of the corporation must be maintained at the registered office and must be accessible to shareholders and creditors of the corporation, their agents and representatives. Most creditors do not realize that they have the right to examine the records of a corporation that is indebted to them.FLEW

GIVING YOU A HOME AWAY FROM HOME BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

n the heart of the Bakken Oil Fields, sits the thriving city of Estevan and whether you are visiting or working there, the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel provides you with a home away from home. With a friendly staff that will make you feel welcome throughout your stay, the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel offers

many amenities to cater to your needs. No matter how long or how short your stay is, you can enjoy all of the comforts of home. Since the fall of 2011, Estevan’s Suburban Extended Stay Hotel has been offering services to make your extended visit more comfortable. “We have full size refrigerators, small kitchens, larger

workspace, the suites and the rooms themselves are more open, there’s more square footage to them, and the fees associated with a longer extended type stay actually become more equitable as you go on,” explains David Landzaat. Due to the rapid growth in the area with

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the developments in oil, agriculture and tourism, many guests are staying longer than just two to three weeks. “The bulk of our clientele in Estevan are trades based in the oil field workers and field workers in general, so a lot of them are there three to six months,” states Landzaat. Rather than commit to a year long contract for an apartment or spend countless nights in a basic hotel room. Oil field workers and trades are searching for other options. These hard working people want a comfortable, homey place to rest and get a good night

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sleep for the next long work shift ahead. They want to be able to easily cook up a meal so they don’t have to rely on eating out all the time. They want a getaway for themselves, a place where they can bring their family that won’t cost them an arm and a leg. They want peace of mind, and now they have it. “There are a number of companies and large organizations that own homes or have signed one year leases in the Estevan area that have fought to get out of the lease just to get their guys

into our Extended Stay Hotel. It is harder to look after a crew of guys in a three bedroom bungalow. We’ve had a number of different companies that were so relieved to pull their guys out of these little apartments and get them into the hotel simply because more things are taken care of, they are more easily monitored and in the long run the costs are reduced,” states Landzaat. The service offered at the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel is second to none, providing everything from maid service

to wake up calls. The maid service is flexible to your preferences, offering a quick clean up every couple of days or daily service which is available for an additional modest fee. You will feel at home at the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel. “There is a familiarity, there’s a comfort zone and we are a firm believer in that,” says Landzaat. Estevan’s Suburban Extended Stay Hotel offers three room styles. There are suites with your own living space separate from the bedroom featuring a queen bed; double queens in a large room, and a single queen room. Expansion has already begun for the increasingly popular hotel which will assist in providing exceptional service

and accommodation to the Estevan area. According to Landzaat, Choice Hotels, together with mother companies, Bridge Road Developments and Encore Hospitality Inc, is moving ahead to develop Suburban as a brand and business model throughout Western Canada. “We have multiples of these projects happening. We’ve identified a number of geographical regions and markets where we are pioneering these Suburban Hotels. The Estevan hotel is a bit of a foundation for us but we have other projects happening in Regina, Kindersley, and anticipating Moose Jaw and Swift Current. We are driving this brand of hotels forward and we are driving them forward because we believe in the idea of serving people who need to have longer than average stays.”

The Suburban Extended Stay Hotel is located at 404 Kensington Avenue, Estevan, Saskatchewan, Canada S4A 2L7. Book your stay by calling at 6348332 or visit their website at www. choicehotels.ca/cn923. FLEW

Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, 404 Kensington Avenue, Estevan ,SK www.choisehotels.ca/cn923 landzaat@hwhholdings.com (306) 634-8332

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Make Your Home Modern, Functional, and Beautiful

No idea?

Crystal Quilliams Inspirations by Color 1101 5th St Estevan 306.634.7008 inspirations@sasktel.net

Beginning the Process “This is an opportunity to figure out your personal style,” says Crystal Quilliams, owner and consultant at Inspirations by Color. “It’s a growing thing, always evolving.” Your ever-changing sense of style and personality are why it is important to keep your space current and inviting. Your space should accurately reflect you and your lifestyle. Start with something that inspires you, even if it is impractical or only a vague idea—a favourite book, a vintage piece of furniture, a picture—anything that you want to incorporate into your home. Experienced designers can help you utilize your concept and build your home or a particular room around your imagination.

Visit a design team and go home with colour swatches, design magazines and other mediums people often find inspirational. If you bookmark a few of your favourite ideas, a knowledgeable team can help identify your style and desires, and show you some options that might work in your own home. If ideas are tailored to you, it won’t be so overwhelming. You should never be rushed or uncomfortable—take your time and get it right.

Paint vs. Wallpaper Both design options have advantages. Paint is easy and can be changed frequently. Aside from the classic practice of painting entire walls, there are ways to make paint more adventurous as well. Colour zoning is a technique where you can incorporate a feature wall. With this original technique you can paint a few squares on your wall, highlight the inside of your cupboards, extend a line from an architectural feature or even paint a pattern. Wallpaper is much less cumbersome than it used to be and a great choice for many people who want to include detailed designs. Wallpaper offers many intricate patterns, and is a good way to go for a multi-textured appeal.

Creative Touches and Genres There are so many unique design ideas it leaves no excuse to be unoriginal.

• Steam punk—A blend of science fiction and steam power inspiration, this unique style often features metals, watch parts, brass and other elements that combine past and future. • Pastels—Layering in light colours with different tones and textures has a way of making your home dream like and almost fairytale-ish. • Greige—A combination of greys and neutrals, this look has taken off. Layered greys can create texture and provide a backdrop for accessorizing with bold colours. • Vintage—Many people are inspired by an older look, incorporating unique pieces of furniture from older relatives or even thrift stores. The French chic look with light furniture slightly distressed, mirrors and rustic wood, can beautify and modernize an older space. • Bold—On the flip side of pastels and neutrals, some people are choosing the route of acid greens, flashy corals, turquoise and other bright colours. Whether you are full of ideas or just know you need a change, visit design professionals, or have them visit you, to see how you can pull everything together and make your home an extension of your unique personality. FLEW

Ernie Yanish and Dragline Bucket Pins For Coronach, Sk

MACHINE SHOP CONTINUES TRADITION OF SUCCESS BY ASHLEIGH MATTERN PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

n Estevan and area, if you need a machine shop, you probably already know where to go: JKD Services has been building their reputation by word of mouth for the past 10 years. Their business is so well-known; they don’t even need a shop sign. But as everyone knows, word of mouth only works if people are happy with the

job you’ve done. Judging by JKD Services’ success, they do a pretty good job. Co-owner Bud McLaughlin chalks up their popularity to their great teamwork. “We’ve got some pretty talented employees here,” he says. “Customers now ask for Greg Wock for a lot more of the daily work and upcoming special

projects. We coordinate the jobs together, which makes for a smooth transition through the workplace.” Wock makes sure there’s a quick turn around on jobs, checks that customers are satisfied with the work they’re paying for and is responsible for training all of their employees. Their eight machinists range in age from 15 to 74, but all of them

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have had one-on-one training. “Some machine shops say they can’t find employees, but we have found them locally,” states McLaughlin. “As long as they’re willing to learn, they can be trained.” Their employees are trained from the ground up, and by the time they’re done their journeyman trade, they know exactly the high quality of work JKD Services expects from them. This machine shop can make just about anything: They’ve made delicate equipment for dental offices, eyeglass holders for an optical office, 500 pound train car rails and aluminium pipe racks for hauling fibreglass pipe. They make custom darts and golf clubs. They make drag racing and car racing parts, repairing drive shafts and lightening gears. They’ve manufactured new parts and reproduced old parts that you can’t buy anymore.

Brett Hoffart - Cutting 11” Tubing on Hyd-Mech Saw

“You’re not really limited to anything,” says McLaughlin. “Anything you bring in pretty well can be repaired or made new.” You won’t just see their parts in Canada: they also make stainless steel oil well parts for Estevan’s TS&M Supply, who sells them internationally to Texas and China. “We’ve worked with plastics, steel, wood, aluminium -- whatever the customer wants or brings in” explains McLaughlin. “We make some pieces that weigh next to nothing to bucket pins that weigh up to 550 pounds each.” They have machines that can be programmed to create hundreds of parts at a time and manual machines that make one part at a time the old fashioned way, but no matter what they’re making, it always takes some creativity. At times, the staff will brainstorm together to come up with solutions. “We’ve got a lot of different experience between all of our employees,” adds McLaughlin. “We usually talk about some of the harder jobs and figure out how to do it.”

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Nathan Biberdorf - Haas Cnc Machine, Manufacturing Oilfield Stuffing Box Kade Anderson- Drilling Parts

(l-r) Ernie Yanish, Nathan Biberdorf, Kade anderson, Steven Lalonde, Bud McLaughlin, Justin Schlapkohl, Brett Hoffart

Gilliss Oil Tools Tuger

Boring Mill. Facing Part for Panteluk Constructiof

Hyd-Mech Saw Cutting Tubing

They keep all of their drawings and plans for any work they do, so that if a customer orders the same part a year from now, they’ll get the same product.

when they do a rush job: Wock ensures jobs are handled properly so orders are on time.

bringing in new equipment exclusive to Estevan and area.

According to McLaughlin, “Each customer has their own file and we have tons of drawings for every customer so they never have to explain more than once what they want.” Customers in a time crunch can also rest easy knowing JKD Services has their back. They’ll often do rush jobs for farmers during seeding season and harvest, and for local mines and oil field customers. But of course, they never leave their other customers hanging

McLaughlin worked for another company for 20 years before making the decision to start his own business. A few of his customers said they’d support him if he branched off on his own, and many of those customers are still with him today, ten years later -- just another sign of the solid work that comes from the dedicated team at JKD Services. The future is bright for JKD: McLaughlin is planning to make Wock a co-owner, they’re looking at an expansion for their 4,000 square foot building and they’re

The next time you need a part, go to the machine shop that has earned the community’s trust over the past decade, and to the team of machinists that doesn’t let you down. No matter whether you need one par tor hundreds, a tiny part or an enormous one; McLaughlin and his team at JKD Services will be able to help. FLEW JKD Services Inc. 60 Hwy 39 E Estevan, SK 306 636.2241 F: 306 636.2089 jkdservices@sasktel.net

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Meet The New Shop Mascot ! Spectacled Caiman named B.B

a pet store with !

Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pet shoP 309 Main street stoughton, sK p: 306.457.2442 e: crystalspetshop@sasktel.net www.crystalspetshop.com

We carry Blue Buffalo, Lifetime and Perfectly Raw Diet dog food Specialize in fish, reptile and ferret supplies 98

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DUN RITE GLASS’

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE By Dan Grant PHOTOS DouG Sully

person’s philosophy and work ethic will generally be a sign to how the future will play out for that individual. The same can be said about a business. Eric Shier’s philosophy and work ethic at Dun Rite started as an employee and eventually put him

in a position to purchase the company. Once becoming the owner five years ago he put his personal philosophy into overdrive to expand and create Dun Rite Glass into the well-known, go to business it has become today.

Dun Rite Glass has become more than just an automobile glass repair place, even though that is still the main portion of their business. Even with the constant growth, Shier has continued to excel at going the extra mile for his customers, no matter what service they are in for.

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Autoglass If there is one constant theme that continues to pop up when you mention DUN RITE and their service it’s that they do everything they can to make getting your vehicle looked after as easy as possible. If for some reason, they don’t have the piece of auto glass you need, since they have a stock of over 150 pieces, then they can get your piece delivered to them in half a day from Regina. This includes commercial equipment and various automobiles, as well. As busy as Shier and his staff are they will always make time to fix a stone chip in your windshield. “You can just come in. No appointments are necessary,” says Shier. “For glass and stone repairs, we are SGI accredited, meaning we can do glass claims under your policy. We also deal with other insurance companies as well.” If you need your windshield changed and have things to do around town, Dun Rite offers courtesy vehicles or shuttles for you.... Dun Rite also does some commercial and residential glass work. They can even bring the glass to you They also do a lot more than just automotive glass replacement. Dun Rite also does commercial and residential glass work. They even can bring the glass to you with one of the two mobile units they have to help make your life as convenient as possible.

Tinting Dun Rite Glass has been offering its window tinting service for a number of years now, and they continue to provide the highest quality window tint on the market today. Shier has sampled up to 15 different brands and styles of window film and has concluded that Solar Gard is the best and most cost effective product for his customers. There are many benefits to tinting your vehicle windows including making your car naturally cooler, reducing the glare of the sun and bright headlights and preventing up to 99 per cent of all ultraviolet rays which protects against premature discoloration and fading of leather, vinyl and fabric in your vehicle. They have a number of different colours and tints to help give your car or truck a nice, stylish look. Shier, “fully guarantees all of our window application,” stating

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R-L Eric Shier, Dallas Shebaylo, Zachary Holma, Nolan Rheindel, Jessica-Lynn Reine and Joshua Poole.

that their film will stay looking great, resist scratches and give you clear vision for years.

Detailing Keeping your resale value high on your vehicle investment is something that Dun Rite Glass specializes in. Everything they do is with the intent of making sure your vehicle not only looks great, but keeps its value. Automotive detailing is a big help in that. Perception is everything and if a

potential buyer feels comfortable that the car they are interested in has been taken care of properly, they will have confidence in spending a little more money. Saskatchewan winter roads covered with salt can cause havoc to a vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior and can cause rusting and damage. Being consistent with getting your car properly washed and taken care of will prevent that from happening. Dun Rite Glass washes and waxes, and they can even polish it up for you.

The inside of your vehicle needs care too and Dun Rite Glass offers anything from a simple clean to a complete wash where they get down and dirty and make sure every inch is clean and looking new. After they clean the inside they protect it to keep it cleaner longer, preventing any damage caused by those nasty UV rays. FLEW DUN RITE GLASS 1302 4th St. 306.634.6093 Cell: 306.421.6839 dunriteglass@gmail.com

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YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD FORD DEALERSHIP: GREAT SERVICE STEMS FROM COMMUNITY ROOTS BY ASHLEIGH MATTERN PHOTOS BY JON GILLIES

reat Plains Ford has a long history with the community of Weyburn. Linda and Allan Tosczak bought the dealership in 1978, and it’s been family owned and operated since then. Their son Jeff Tosczak has been managing the business for the past ten years. Not only is Great Plains Ford a family business, it could also be considered a community business thanks to a core group of staff members who have been with them for decades. “Our people are definitely our greatest assets at the dealership,” says Jeff. “Great

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service stems from great people. We have an unbelievable staff that knows how to look after our customers in a friendly, timely manner. It’s nice when you can go to a business and deal with the same people you have been dealing with for years. Great relationships are built this way and we are very fortunate to have a lot of long term staff.” Just to name a few, Harvey Oudot, Dave Kotz, and Doug Nicholson have all been with Great Plains Ford since they opened. The majority of the rest of the staff have been with them for 15 years or more. “We’re not a high pressure facility,” states Jeff. “We like to deal in a nice,

friendly, no pressure environment. I believe people like to shop that way and experience buying a vehicle that way; at least I know I do. Buying a vehicle should not be a painful experience.” Jeff worked as an auto auctioneer in Winnipeg and later in Edmonton where he took over the position of sales manager before returning to Weyburn to help at the dealership. He still lends his auctioneering talents to the community for fundraisers and charity auctions. “Weyburn is a great community to raise a family in; we have excellent facilities, schools, sports teams, and programs

(l-r) Andy Verhaeghe (service manager) and Chad Barnes (service advisor) (l-r) Andy Verhaeghe (service manager) and Chad Barnes (service advisor)

that the whole community rallies around. that the whole community around. We have always been big rallies supporters of We have always been big supporters local community. My dad, Big Al as he of is local community. My has dad,always Big Al as he isa known around here, been known around here, has always been a huge supporter of 4-H.” huge supporter of 4-H.” Jeff guesses that over the past 35 Jeff thatpurchased over the over past500 35 years, guesses his dad has years, dad local has purchased 500 calves his at the 4-H sale. over Whether calves at thebaseball, local 4-H sale. Whether it’s hockey, volleyball, soccer, it’s hockey, baseball, volleyball, dance competitions or the soccer, annual dance competitions the Ford annual Communithon, Great or Plains is Communithon, Great Ford is usually supporting it onePlains way or another. usually supporting it one way or another. Perhaps due to their deep local roots, Perhaps to their deep the staff due at Great Plains Fordlocal take roots, pride the staff at Great Plains Ford take in the great service they offer to pride their in the great Ifservice offer to their customers. there’sthey a problem, they customers. If there’s a problem, they

always do their best always best always do try their to get a always try to get when fixing vehicles.a when fixing vehicles.

to help and they to helpturnaround and they quick quick turnaround

In an effort to even further increase their In an effort to even fast, further increase their ability to provide quality service, ability to provide fast, quality service, Great Plains Ford just did a large service Great Plainsadding Ford just did a5,000 large service expansion, about square expansion, adding about 5,000 square feet to the dealership. feet to the dealership. “Because of the growing population in “Because thethe growing population in Weyburn of and increasing service Weyburn and the increasing service needs, we needed to expand to get needs, weforneeded expand to and get people in service to quicker, faster people in for service quicker, faster and better,” adds Jeff. better,” adds Jeff. The expanded service centre was fully The expanded service centreThey was hired fully operational as of June 2012. operational as of June 2012. They hired

more service staff, installed seven extra more service staff, seven extra overhead doors forinstalled direct drive-in bays overhead doors for direct drive-in bays and purchased new hoists and diagnostic and purchased new hoists and diagnostic equipment. equipment. “Service is the most important part of “Service is theJeff most important partwhy of the business,” explains. “That’s the business,” Jeff explains. “That’s why we did the service expansion, and that’s we service whydid wethe have a fullyexpansion, accreditedand SGI that’s body why we have a fully accredited SGI body shop, and that’s why we stock lots of shop, parts, and and that’s that’s why why we we stock stock lots lots of of parts, andtothat’s we stock lots of vehicles: serve why the customers in our vehicles: to serve the customers in our area the best we can.” area the best we can.” The expansion also allowed them to The also to createexpansion a dedicated bayallowed for Rhinothem Linings, create a dedicated bay for Rhino Linings, a new service they began offering when athey newbecame service athey began offering when franchise dealer earlier they became a franchise dealer earlier

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this year. “Spray-in box liners have become very popular over the last few years, and we wanted to provide the best product in the market right here at the dealership to make it convenient for our customers.” Their knowledgeable service and body shop staff can take care of all makes and models, not just Fords. From oil changes to tires, windshield repairs and replacements, to dents and frame straightening, to complete paint jobs, Great Plains Ford has everything your vehicle needs. And don’t forget their huge selection of vehicles. “We always have a great selection of new and used vehicles,” says Jeff. “We especially like to stock heavy in new F-150 and Super Duty trucks. Ford makes an unbelievably high quality product these days, second to none in the industry.” One exciting new vehicle to check out is the all new 2013 Escape, which was rebuilt from the ground up and gets up to 41 miles per gallon. For no pressure help in choosing the right vehicle to fit your needs, or to find the best vehicle service around, visit your neighbourhood dealership: Great Plains Ford in Weyburn. FLEW

Great Plains Ford 206 Sims Ave, Weyburn, SK phone: 306-842-2645 www.greatplainsford.com

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Proper Vehicle Maintenance

Occasionally using a pressure washer can help you remove dirt from places difficult to reach by hand. However, when using a pressure washer, be sure to stay a safe distance from your vehicle to ensure you don’t peel or damage the paint.

Wax Your Vehicle Not only does waxing your vehicle help provide a natural looking shine, but it also protects the paint. Wax will cover small scratches and stone chips, making your vehicle look more attractive. Keeping a coat of wax on your car will keep the paint safer and your vehicle less likely to rust and corrode. A fresh coat of wax will also make your vehicle easier to wash. Getting rid of bugs and marks left by rain is much easier with the wax protective layer.

Bill Fonstad Owner of Ideal Autobody 445 4th Street Estevan, SK 306.634.2815 wfonstad@sasktel.net It is as important to take care of the body of your vehicle as it is the internal workings. Performing regular and proper maintenance on your vehicle ensures less corrosion and a longer life for your vehicle. Here are some ways to keep your car looking and working at its peak.

Wash Your Vehicle

The best time to wax your vehicle is directly after a wash or detailing by an auto body shop to ensure you aren’t putting your wax over top of dirt and residue. Make sure your vehicle is parked out of the sun for the waxing, as most wax goes on better when it’s not too hot. Waxing once every three or four months will keep your vehicle looking good, regardless of its age.

Repair a Stone Chip A stone chip on the body of your vehicle may appear to be only a topical problem, but if left in disrepair, it can be the starting point for corrosion on your car. To repair it you’ll need a sharp wooden stick, a toothpick will do, and matching spray paint, likely ordered from your dealership. Wash the spot you will be working on and ensure it is clean and dry before you begin. Shake the spray paint well and spray a small amount into the cap. Now dip your stick or toothpick into the paint. Carefully dab the paint inside the chipped zone. This quick and easy trick can save your car from looking battered and old before its time. Regular vehicle maintenance is vital to your car’s structure. These quick and easy tips can extend the life of your vehicle while saving you time and money. If you have any questions about car maintenance or anything else, visit me and my friendly staff at Ideal Autobody.

FLEW

Undercoating and Rust-proofing Although you need to take your car to an auto body shop to have this done, it is an essential part of keeping your vehicle healthy. Saskatchewan’s winters are harsh, meaning there’s often salt and gravel on the road to damage the undercarriage of your vehicle. Protect vital parts of your car by getting an undercoating and rust-proofing.

I advise you to wash your car at least once a month to remove bird droppings, bugs or other materials that can permanently damage the paint on your vehicle. Our harsh winters are tough on vehicles—even the body. Salt and water can cause corrosion if not rinsed off regularly. If your car is left dirty, moisture accumulates in those areas, causing rust. When washing, be sure to get behind all open spaces on your car—windshield, wheel arches and any other nooks.

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(L - R) Noel Mabaet and Emmanuell Magat

THE PEOPLE WHO ARE THERE TO SERVE YOU By Dan Grant PHOTOS DouG Sully

urray GM in Estevan and Oxbow is known for their superstar service. Danielle Smith, the fixed operations manager, in Oxbow has been in her current position for the last five years, but has been there for nine. “I think what sets us apart from the bigger towns is that we know a lot of customers on a first name basis,” says Smith.

This is evident through the courteous staff. Sandy Cooney has been with Murray GM for a year and works in parts, service, and clerical support. Cory Rucks, a senior journeyman technician for the last seven

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years and Francisco Bagole who has been a technician apprentice for seven months. Detailers include Linda Tymchuk who has been with them for a year and a half and new comer James Vanbeselaer. As with all technicians and support staff employed at Murray GM locations the learning never stops. “Our technicians and support staff continue to improve on their skills by taking GM certified online and in class training. They are always current with GM trends and technologies to provide our customers with the fastest and most knowledgeable service,” explains Smith.

The team in Estevan paint a very similar story, such as Doug Lawson, the service manager with over 32 years of experience in GM Service Departments, stating, “We have the first operational drive-in service reception area in Estevan. Which means you can drive into the climate controlled write up area so you and the service advisor can go over any concerns at the car.” Wayne Jensen, also a 30 plus year GM man specializing in general mechanical is an expert in installing all after sale accessories. Superstar technician Glen Willerth is a three time GM Grand Master Technician,

the highest award given to recognize quality technicians in the GM Dealer network. He’s one of only two in the Prairie Region. As the shop foreman Willerth not only ensures quality control for the shop but also takes time to share his skill and knowledge with his colleagues. Zach Seipp is an ASEP trained technician and works alongside the newest additions to the GM family Noel Mabaet, Jose Nery and Emmanuell Magat. Newly promoted service advisors Teresa Dumaine and Jennifer Biette make sure the customer is satisfied. Also newly promoted, Kendra Davidson, will answer your questions and conduct service follow-up to ensure your experience has been positive. Fred Lattery has been working in the parts department for about ten years and takes great pride in helping people accessorize and style their vehicles. Dayna Ferguson joined the Murray GM parts department in September, 2011. Her main responsibility in the parts department is to make sure the technicians have everything they need. Shipperreceiver Derrell Sears served his country for over 28 years before joining Murray GM. Long timer Curtis Le Blanc joined the team in 1984 as the “gopher.” Four short years later he was promoted to lead the squad as their manager and has been so ever since.

Zach Seipp

With almost 30 years in the automotive industry, Jackie Doan Kyle has been overseeing the body shop for the past seven years. Painter extraordinaire Randy Stovin brings 23 years of experience to the department. Lavern Tessier (Gump) may be the most experienced body man in town with over 40 years in the business. Sergii Prysiazhniuk can fix anything and has been at Murray GM for over three years. Specializing from small scratches to major collisions and frame damage Murray GM is always ready to make your car look brand new again. They are SGI accredited and authorized to repair your vehicle.

Teresa Dumaine

Murray GM has all makes and models at their locations. Need a courtesy car? No problem, they can fix you up or you can take advantage of their shuttle service. Murray GM in Estevan service department is now open Saturdays from 9AM to 4PM. FLEW

Murray GM 801 13th Ave Estevan, SK 306.634.3661 www.murrayestevan.com

(L - R) Jose Nery and Glen Willerth FineLifestyles

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Photo by Mike Ridewood. Courtesy of www.calgarystampede.com.

Calgary Stampede:

The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth Celebrates 100 Years TEXT AND PHOTOS Nykea Marie Behiel

ut in Cowtown the air is rich, and not just with oil money, but with a century of men and women celebrating western values and traditions. If you don’t have a belt buckle, cowboy hat, or moustache, you might feel a little out of place, but the Stampede offers something for everyone. A midway packed with rides and games, barns filled with animals, exhibitions, and, of course, the rodeo and chuckwagons. No fair is complete without the promise of ridiculously unhealthy food—deep fried chocolate bars, pizza on a stick, mini donuts, poutiness topped with meat, corndogs—the Stampede has it all. This year, the huge show brought out record numbers of visitors from around the globe, pushing well over a million

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people through the turnstiles during its ten days. Rodeo fans or not, they were not to be disappointed with the huge spectacle. Paul Brandt, Johnny Reid, Brad Paisley, and of course Garth Brooks played to tightly packed crowds, floating over the people on flying stages with fireworks going off in the background. Not many athletes that call Saskatchewan home were competing at the elite rodeo this year, but the few who did, take great pride in what they do. Aaron Roy and Dusty Ephrom had a chance to compete in the bull riding, while Jesse Byrne was there to protect them as a bullfighter. The most dangerous event in rodeo. The highlight. The culmination. Everyone lines up to see the daredevils of rodeo. The men here at the stampede climb onto 2000 pounds of bucking bull to

see if they can hold on, with one hand, for eight seconds. Half the score comes from the stock, half from the rider, and the man with the highest score goes home with the most money. On million dollar Sunday, the finalist walks away with a cheque for $100 000.

Aaron Roy Aaron grew up around Asquith and has become successful around the world. A few years ago, Asquith got a Pro Bull Riding event, PBR, and named it after him. The Aaron Roy Invitational PBR is now held every year in June, as well as various other PBR stops around Saskatchewan. “The bull ridings in Saskatchewan are some of the best going right now,” says Aaron. “Saskatchewan fans are the best

fans.” Aaron’s affection for Saskatchewan led him and his wife Hallie to settle down in Yellowgrass. “I couldn’t picture myself representing any other province. I’ve always been in Saskatchewan and I always want to be in Saskatchewan,” effuses Roy. While Aaron rides bulls across the world and back, Hallie works as an environmental technologist in Weyburn. Aaron grew up watching his two older brothers ride bulls. “I watched them growing up and I wanted to do it. After I got doing it for a while I wanted to beat them. Once they quit, I wanted to beat everyone else I’m riding against and win a world title.” The world title is held in Vegas every year. Aaron is high in the standings, and likely to be competing in there this fall. He is making a reputation for Saskatchewan South of the border. This is Aaron’s third year competing at the Calgary Stampede. Last year he made it to the final Sunday. “There’s nothing else that can compare,” says Aaron. “You’re competing for 100 00 dollars every time you get on; you don’t get very many opportunities to ride for money like that.”

Dusty Ephrom Dusty lives in Kenosee Lake, and is proud to call Saskatchewan home. This is Dusty’s third time competing at the Stampede, and he has many fond memories of the elite rodeo. Most nostalgically, the first time he competed at the Stampede he met his wife, Renee. Directly after that first Stampede, he went to compete in four rodeos, winning them all but Shaunavon, where he placed second. That winning weekend is one of his best memories. “There’s been a lot of good guys from Saskatchewan going down [to the U.S.],” says Dusty. He says that he, Aaron, and other Saskatchewan cowboys are trying to make a name for Saskatchewan when they compete in the U.S. “We’re trying to represent.” “It’s a big Canadian tradition; I watched it as a kid,” says Dusty of the Stampede. “I watched the Calgary Stampede and thought it was the coolest thing in the world.” Many years later, he’s here to compete. “I like to try to stay calm, try not to force anything, just go with the flow of things,” says Dusty about preparing to mount a bull. He is confident in the ability of the bullfighters to keep him safe after the horn goes. “They’re the best in the world.” Bull rider Shane Proctor takes a moment to focus. FineLifestyles

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Jesse Byrne The bullfighters rush in at the time everyone else wants nothing more than to leave. Jesse and his cousin Scott Byrne are on the team again this year “I get to go to lots of places all across Canada and the U.S., but this is definitely one of the places I look forward to most all year,” says Jesse of the Stampede. This is his fourth year at the major rodeo. Jesse’s father was a bullfighter, and he learnt the ropes from him and Scott. “It’s fun to be out there with your family members. There’s no doubt in my mind that no matter what happens Scott’s got my back out there.” While Jesse and Scott bullfight, Jesse’s younger brother is a bull rider, and his wife, Lauren, is a barrel racer. This is a rodeo family through and through. While Jesse grew up in Prince Albert and Lauren in Saskatoon, just over a year ago they moved to a ranch between Okatoks and Black Diamond, Alberta to be more central to the rodeos. For big rodeos, bull riders vote on the best bullfighters. Jesse and Scott are honoured to have been chosen many times. “It’s a pat on the back to know that those guys trust you with their safety more than anyone else. That’s what we do it for.”

The Finals On final Sunday, it came down to just three finalists rather than four—everyone else had bucked off. Last year’s Stampede winner American Shane Proctor made the cut, along with Alberta cowboy Chad Besplug, and Saskatchewan’s own Aaron Roy. Chad rode first and bucked off. Aaron next. Bucked off. If Shane stayed on his bull the coveted title and money would go to an American for the seventh year in a row. But Shane bucked off. Workers loaded three new bulls and the riding order was reversed. Shane Proctor rode first and managed to stay on a wild bull for a sloppy 66 points. Aaron mounted his mean bull next and managed an amazing ride for 86 points. It looked as though Aaron had the title until Chad rode his bucking bull to a loud and excited crowd. The stadium was almost silent as the judges tallied their points. Aaron and Chad stood together, both all smiles—they knew that no matter what, a Canadian was going to be bestowed the title. The judges came out with a score of 87 points for Chad, beating Aaron by just one point. The crowd erupted with the break of the drama. In a true show of sportsmanship, Aaron smilingly congratulated Chad before he walked out to accept his prize. For the first time in many years, two Canadian cowboys had synched first and second place at the Calgary Stampede. Both left happy for each other, a true show of character. FLEW TOP leFT Chad Besplug celebrates his $100 000 championship Sunday. MiDDle Chad Besplug and Aaron Roy.

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Rider Cody Bennett of Grenfell, SK is bucked off a horse called Fireworks in the Saddle Bronc event at the Weyburn Rodeo July 21st, 2012.

RODEO WAY OF LIFE PHOTOS AND TEXT Jennifer Cugnet

ark rolling clouds mask the scorching prairie summer sun in the early evening hours. Lightning strikes and thunder rumbles as cowboys and cowgirls riding horses, bulls, and bucking broncos race against the clock in the middle of an outdoor arena, electrifying the atmosphere and captivating the crowd. Rain or shine, the show must go on, and a little bit of lightning isn’t scaring anyone away. It is day one of a two day annual rodeo event at the Weyburn fairgrounds, put on by the Weyburn Agricultural Society and supported by numerous local sponsors. Rodeos have taken place across the Prairie Provinces for decades, and they’ve been a part of Saskatchewan culture throughout our young history. The first Ag Fair in Weyburn, with horse races

being the main attraction, occurred in 1909. Just as the pioneers would eagerly escape the heat and mosquitos in the field to gather at rodeo events over 100 years ago, the tradition continues today. While events such as barrel races, team roping, and bull riding have replaced events like ploughing competitions, the spirit of the sport remains the same. At the very heart of it, rodeo demonstrates the tremendous skill and strength required when working with livestock, and celebrates a western way of life. Mixing equal parts sport and show, rodeos continue to bring communities together providing entertainment to cowpokes and city slickers alike. It’s got the bulls and blood, dust and mud, and roars of a Sunday crowd that Garth Brooks sang about, and let’s not forget

the boots and chaps and cowboy hats. If seven thrilling rodeo events aren’t enough to keep you on the edge of your seat, music plays continuously throughout each event and between each rider to keep the energy levels of the crowd and riders elevated. It ain’t just country music either; you’ll hear everything from the classic rock of AC/DC to the dance/ pop of Lady Gaga and the Black Eyed Peas. George Thorogood’s ‘Bad to the Bone’ plays as the intro to the bull riding event, and those first few guitar riffs set the scene for the exciting bull rides that have yet to take place. The humour of the rodeo clown is an integral part of the rodeo show and is not to be missed. While officially, the rodeo clown’s job is to distract bulls from fallen riders, they are, unofficially,

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stand-up comedians. Friendly jabs at the crowd and a constant string of one-liners are dished out. They tend to poke fun at neighbouring towns and provinces, as the rodeo clown did in Weyburn saying, “Did you know that Alberta has changed its penalty for speeding tickets? It’s brutal. If you are caught speeding, the cops give you Stamps tickets! And the penalty for your second speeding offence is even worse - you have to use them!” There are also witty back-and-forth exchanges between the rodeo clown and announcer. Their folksy rapport is akin to that which exists between the characters of Woody and Buzz in Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’. This banter is a lively show within the bigger show of the rodeo. The Canadian Cowboys Association [CCA] plays a major role in keeping the sport of rodeo vibrant in this day and age. The purpose of the CCA, as their mission statement reads, is to “Lead and Promote the Sport of Rodeo with Purpose and Integrity through Top Quality Entertainment Events.” It is the only organization that bridges Western and Eastern Canada. This allows rodeo participants from novice to professional levels the ability to gain more experience by having access to rodeos in a wider range of locations. The CCA sanctions over 50 rodeos across Canada every year, and also approves the various

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contractors who supply rodeo stock. Rodeos feature seven events: Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-down Roping, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, and Bull Riding. As with other sports, rodeo performances are timed events evaluated on specific criteria.

horse and let the rope go slack. If the calf gets free within six seconds, the rider does not receive a score. Penalties are given if the ropers jerk the calf down too hard or flip the calf over backwards. While the intent is to secure the calf, great care is taken to avoid any injury or harm to the calf.

In the barrel racing event, riders must race their horse around three barrels in a clover leaf pattern, being careful not to knock over any barrels as this results in a time penalty (up to five seconds can be added to their final time).

Competitors who steer wrestle will chase a steer on horseback, jump off the horse, grab the steers’ horns and bring it to a stop, then lay it on the ground with its feet pointed in the same direction.

The two roping events in rodeo originated from the duties of working cattlemen. Livestock requiring tagging, branding, or medical treatment are caught by means of roping with a lasso. In the team roping event, the steer is given a head start. The first cowboy ropes the steer’s horns or neck and turns it 90 degrees. The second cowboy ropes both back legs. Scores are only given when both cowboys complete the roping, turn their horses and take the slack out of the ropes.

There are two versions of the bronc riding event, bareback and saddle. In the event, the rider starts out with both feet over the horse’s shoulders to give the horse an advantage. He must remain on the bucking horse for 8 seconds in order for his ride to qualify, and ensure that his free hand doesn’t touch the horse, his equipment, or himself during that ride, or he risks disqualification. Disqualification also occurs if he drops the bronc rein or either foot slips out of its stirrup.

In the tie-down roping event, the calf is given a head start, and then the rider on horseback must catch up, rope the calf, get off the horse, lay the calf on its side, and tie three legs together with the “pigging string” he carries in his teeth. The cowboy must then get back on his

The 8-second rule and free-hand rule also govern the fan-favourite bull riding event. The great danger in this event of course is the risk of the bull charging or trampling the rider after he has dismounted. Rodeo clowns and bull fighters distract the bull’s attention away from the fallen rider.

Those unfamiliar with rodeo often wonder ‘how do they get the animals to buck’? A common misconception is that rodeo bulls and horses are raised to be wild and angry so that they buck aggressively on command. This is not true. During a rodeo, right before the panel gate opens and the bull or bronc ride begins, a flank strap covered in soft sheepskin is wrapped and tightened around the flank (midsection) of the animal. President of the CCA, stock contractor, and bareback bronc rider Jonathan Kmita of Weyburn, describes the flank strap as “like having your belt one notch too tight.” The horse or bull kicks and bucks in an attempt to remove the pressure the flank strap applies. Each time they kick, the pressure is released. As soon as the cowboy’s ride ends, the flank strap is removed and the animal quits kicking and calmly makes its way back into the corrals.

Barrel racer Traci Beckman of Warman, SK makes a tight turn in the Ladies Barrel Race at Weyburn Rodeo July 21st, 2012.

Rodeo differs greatly from other solo sports in that each competitor’s success depends heavily on the livestock they ride. No matter how much experience a rider may have, the animal he or she is paired with often determines the outcome of their ride. To maintain fairness for all who compete, once competitors enter a rodeo through the CCA office, a computer randomly draws the livestock they are to be paired with in their events. It is not uncommon for cowboys and cowgirls to attend multiple rodeos in different locations in the same weekend. It was noted that several team ropers competing in Weyburn’s rodeo had competed in a rodeo in Wyoming the day before. Keeping in mind these cowboys are still in high school, you have to admire their dedication. Kmita points out that another difference between rodeo and other professional sports is that rodeo is the only professional sport where the participants must pay a fee to enter each rodeo they compete in. The monetary winnings they compete for come solely through pooling the participants’ entry fees and community sponsorship. Rodeos in communities that draw large participation and big crowds are appealing to cowboys and cowgirls as larger prize winnings will be up for grabs. Competitors placing in the top 6 spots in each event generally

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qualify for monetary prizes. Prize amounts range from approximately $5000 at the high end to $1000 at the low end, but these amounts constantly vary. The “richest day in rodeo” occurs on the last day of the Calgary Stampede, where the winner in each event receives $100,000. Applying this monetary structure to other professional sports makes you wonder how many players would remain in the NHL, MLB, or NFL if they had to pay a fee before each game every season and were not guaranteed a paycheck. Being that so many variables affect the chances of rodeo success, not to mention the danger and commitment involved, it REALLY makes you wonder what draws people in to the sport of rodeo. It is apparent that money isn’t the reason. Many rodeo participants were introduced to working with livestock by their parents at a very young age, which inspired a lifelong passion and connection to animals. It’s common for competitors to be second, third, fourth generation. This is true for Kmita, whose father had horses and competed in team roping, and for team roper and CCA Vice President Graham Stewart who explains that his mother, horse trainer and rodeo competitor Sandy Stewart, introduced him to not only rodeo, but the business of stock contracting. “Up until three or four years ago my family provided team roping, steer wrestling and tie-down roping cattle to over 50 rodeos a year so it was family business. My mom still trains, competes and sells barrel racing horses”. Rodeos encourage the next generation of competitors with kid’s rodeo events. Children develop special bonds with their livestock that last a lifetime. Two young cowgirls from Trossachs, Saskatchewan, Payton (age six) and Hannah (age three and a half), joined the

Proud sponsor of the Weyburn Rodeo. Come See Us At Our New Location

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Locally Owned and Operated Southern Glass Works 1524 1st Ave NW Weyburn, SK 306.842.2574 www.southernglassworks.ca

Kristin and Dustin Caldwell lead their daughters Payton and Hannah into the rodeo arena at Weyburn’s Kids Rodeo July 21st, 2012.

almost 40 children who participated in Weyburn’s Kids Rodeo this year. With guidance from their parents Dustin and Kristen Caldwell, the girls took part in all five events: Dummy Tying, Keyhole, Poles, Barrels, and Sheep Dressing. Both girls, who look after cows, horses, pigs, sheep, chickens, ducks, dogs, and cats at home, hope to become veterinarians when they grow up. Chuckling to himself, Kmita admits that he feels rodeo allows you to act out the dreams you envision as a child while riding a stick pony and slinging a six shooter. Bull rider Aaron Roy from Yellow Grass Saskatchewan recently lived a

rodeo fantasy by dazzling the crowds at Calgary Stampede, almost cinching the top spot. It has to be exhilarating for cowboys and cowgirls, knowing that each ride in the rodeo arena is a chance to wow the crowd. Rodeo Arena Director Garth Guest sums rodeo up best by saying “Rodeo is a way of life”. “Rodeo is a heritage sport with a strong connection to the past”, adds Kmita. Stewart shares this sentiment. “[Rodeo] preserves the western lifestyle; respecting the farming and ranching backgrounds of many of our forefathers. Many of the rodeo competitors still make a living on the land, running cattle and farming”.

While Calgary Stampede touts this slogan, it can be said of all rodeos – they’re the greatest outdoor shows on Earth. And they are shows – music, comedy, and action that will have you cheering before you know it. Spectators may find they have a sore backside from sitting on the bleachers, but it does not hurt as much as the bull rider who gets tossed in the air by his bull! Be sure to check out the upcoming rodeo events in Estevan on September 7-9th 2012, and the Canadian Cowboys Association Finals Rodeo at Canadian Western Agribition November 20-24th 2012. FLEW

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Beyond the usual By Shawna Common PHOTOS DoUG SULLY

S-iV is a clothing and shoe retailer like no other, and carries a wide selection of extreme sport lifestyle clothing and

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shoes. The store has moved to a new location three times the size of the old one, so there is much more clothing, accessories such as sunglasses and watches, footwear, and a wider selection of sporting equipment.

today. Judy and Chris still own & operate the store in Weyburn, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very excited about their new location. Their original location in Estevan has the same unique products and excellent customer service.

XS-iV was founded in 2002 in Estevan, by Judy and Chris Istace as a body and costume jewellery store, but they listened to their customers. Their customers wanted a store that carried hard to find clothing and shoes geared towards the extreme sport lifestyle. XS-iV evolved from only selling jewellery to the retail establishment in operation

The store is a typical board shop that carries skateboards and snowboards, but expanded to carry Sherwood Hockey gear, Motocross gear and BMX bikes. Their main focus is the clothing and shoes that go along with the extreme sport lifestyle from toddler to adult, including brand names such as Metal Mulisha, Fox, Nike, Reebok, Puma, Volcom, DC, LRG & Red Dragons. Some

of the 150 to 200 styles of footwear from which to choose from include Fallen, Globe, Circa, Vans, DC, Osiris, Supra, Ipath, Nike, Reebok and Puma. XS-iV also has a selection of baseball, soccer and football cleats from Nike & Umbro, and the best in comfortable sandals - Reef & Sanuk . “We always have people calling from Regina and Saskatoon looking for a product that they can’t find in their city. We carry more unique products that are not main stream and we carry a limited number of each product. Our customers appreciate that they can be fairly confident that they don’t see other people wearing the same clothing or shoes in that colour or style. We have a

wide selection of products, but we limit the number of each product so that our customers feel as though they have exclusive products. Since we specialize in the extreme sport lifestyle and we have such a large location and selection we are able to offer customers a much better price than our competitors. We have a lot of depth in our inventory which our customers definitely appreciate,” explains Judy. Open to anyone who shops at, works at and just plain thinks we are friggin’ awesome LOL It’s XS-iV Boardshop! Join up and watch for exclusive sales and promotions for all our facebook friends!

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Judy, Chris and staff at the store are committed to their customers and to providing exceptional customer service. They handle customer inquiries and assist with warranties. Every customer that enters the store is welcomed by the friendly and knowledgeable staff in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere without feeling pressured. They want their customers to enjoy their

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shopping experience at the store. The staff and owners do not just sell products for extreme sport lifestyles they also practice that lifestyle as well. Many of the staff members are also involved with a variety of the sports such as skateboarding, wakeboarding and motocross. Some of the skateboard brands they carry are Almost, Chocolate, Black Label, Blind, Flip, Santa Cruz, Gravity, Mystery, Shortyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Baker, Birdhouse and Enjoi. They also carry a range of snowboarding gear and equipment for when your thoughts turn to frozen adventures, such as DC, Volcom, Burton, Thirty Two and Nomis. Some of the motocross and BMX brands they carry are Troy Lee

Designs, Shift, Gaerne, Fox Racing, FBM Bikes, Eastern and United. If you are looking for accessories XS-iV offers Spy and Dragon Sunglasses, Nixon and Vestal Watches, and Dragon, Oakley and Spy Goggles for MX or snowboarding. XS-iV is located at #103 117 3rd Street in Weyburn, and 1230 4th Street in Estevan. Call the Weyburn store to discuss their products and selection at (306) 842-6774, or you can visit their website at www.xsiv.ca. XS-iV offers free giveaways and surprise sales to their Facebook followers, so be sure to check them out on Facebook at XS-iV Boardshop. FLEW XS-iV #103 117 3rd Street, Weyburn 306.842.6774 1230 4th Street, Estevan www.xsiv.ca Facebook at XS-iV Boardshop

Putting the Customer First By Dan Grant Photos DouG sully

L-R: Riley Shaver, Andy & Shelley Schroeder, Denille Shaver

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Denille’s office where she looks after reporting of productions numbers and deals with client specific site issues

wenty-years ago Andy Schroeder was working for Schindle & Bazin as a crew foreman. When an opportunity to become a contract operator was presented,he and Shelley discussed the pros and cons with Shelley’s parents, Harold and Bella Roe, both successful business owners themselves, and decided to make the move to self employment, knowing that every day was going to be a learning curve and that there would definitely be headaches and heartaches along the way. Hard work, perseverance, and a solid reputation is what define the company today.

“There have been some very tough times, but we have managed to ride them out and are very fortunate to have the quality clients we do today,”

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says Shelly Schroeder, when talking about how the business began and how it got to where it is today. Andy, who relocated to Estevan from Windthorst, SK in 1980, and Shelley, who was born and raised in Estevan; are both very business orientated with a good mindset for the oil and gas industry and it shows. Their customers love the service they provide, such as contract operators that gauge and report the production numbers to the owner/clients, lease preparation and maintenance, site supervision, service rig workover and supervision and whatever else may be required by the client. Essentially A & S Oilfield is the hands, eyes and ears for the companies that cannot be at the locations. In August 2006, A&S Oilfield Operating Ltd. made the decision to branch off into the safety realm of the industry. “I am a certified Health and Safety

Administrator, Construction Safety Auditor, and Internal/External Safety Auditor,” describes Shelley. “I work with companies to develop and implement their health and safety management system and guide them to develop their program to meet industry standards and to obtain COR/SECOR certification, depending on the size of the company and the Safety Association that they have chosen to work with. If required, and just about everyone is nowadays, I set up and administer the safety registries such as ISNetworld, ComplyWorks, and most recently, PICS.” With five working employees A & S Oilfield Operating Ltd. has built a solid reputation in the city of Estevan. A lot of that has come from being a very caring and honest company. Andy, who was President with the Estevan Bruins for ten years, is known for his honest, caring, and upfront nature when speaking to clients.

Andy Schroeder/ Owner

Office located at 106 Souris Avenue

A&S Oilfield are strong community supporters of the Estevan Bruin Hockey Club, both highschool and Estevan Minor Football clubs, Estevan Minor Hockey, Roping/Reining Association and basically any club that supports youth involvement in sports - “ if it’s legitimate, we support it!”

Inside reception area

What customers say gives you the story on what it’s like to work with a company and A &S clients have nothing but wonderful things to mention. A & S is known for never saying no to any new clients and are extremely knowledgeable in what they do. FLEW

A & S Oilfield Operating Ltd. 106 Souris Ave. N Estevan, SK P. 634.4087 F. 634.8817 as.oil@sasktel.net

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WORKING IN A MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY Challenges Women Face Working in the Oilfield – of Mice & Men BY JENNIFER CUGNET

ilfield work for men and women is intense. It entails long hours, shift work, extreme weather conditions, and substantial time away from home. Factor in that oilfield jobs are big budget, highly technical, time

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sensitive projects that leave little room for error, and you have a very challenging, high stress work environment. In the four years I have worked as a wellsite geologist, I have experienced

all of the above. And many a night shift at three o’clock in the morning I have asked myself, “Why am I sitting at this rig when it’s minus 40 outside, I’m up all night exhausted, and the rock samples don’t look like they’re supposed to? Why

didn’t I choose a nice predictable nine to five Monday to Friday office job?” When I began my career, I was aware of the challenges that would come with wellsite geology work. But until I experienced them, I didn’t fully understand the pros and cons of a challenging career choice. I would describe working at a wellsite as either a paradise or a prison sentence. It took awhile to find a middle ground.

heard were said between members of the rig crew. If anyone needs a thick-skin at a wellsite, it’s the roughnecks, not the geologists. Most of my less-than-ideal work experiences occurred during the first few well-sitting jobs I had. Looking back, many of the challenges I faced and fears I had were simply because of a lack of experience.

Along with the challenges in wellsite geology work, I wondered if I would face any additional challenges because of the fact that I was a woman entering a male-dominated industry. I had many preconceived notions about what I might experience at the wellsite. I was afraid that I would face chauvinism, that men wouldn’t listen to my instructions and requests, and that crude, sexist comments would be hurled in my direction.

One of the first and more humorous challenges I faced involved getting the proper safety gear. While there is no set uniform for a wellsite geologist, proper personal protective equipment, like coveralls, are necessary when you are on or around the drilling rig. Wellsite work is a dirty job –not a place for suits and ties –and when a job is done, my coveralls don’t even come home in the vehicle with me. They’re sealed in a bag in the box of my truck because of the dirt and sometimes harsh chemicals on them.

Now that I’ve become familiar with drilling routines and my role at the wellsite, I can say that many of my preconceived notions were incorrect. I have experienced chivalry much more than chauvinism; my voice has carried more weight than I expected, and nothing crudely sexist has been said to me. The only really crude comments I’ve

Shopping for the protective equipment was unlike any shopping experience I’ve ever had. I had a short shopping list: coveralls, steel-toed rubber boots, safety glasses, hard hat. Four things. It should have been easy, but it wasn’t. The coveralls came in size L, XL, XXL, XXXL, and XXXXL. A small was practically unheard of. I did get a confidence

boost when everything I tried on was too big, but it soon became frustrating. Searching for anything smaller than size ‘L’ became a long search and ended up being a custom order. The steel-toed rubber boots came in one style, one colour, and no women’s sizes. The smallest size was a men’s size six, which fit my foot like a women’s size nine, and my feet are a size seven. Luckily the last two items on my list, hard hats and safety glasses, fit no problem. The first time I tried on all the gear, whatever confidence I gained trying on coveralls, was lost when I looked in the mirror. I resembled a bright blue fire-retardant storm trooper. Driving to the wellsite those first few times was another challenge. When I phoned the senior geologist for directions he gave me the land location coordinates and that was it. With an RM map in hand, I asked for a few more details. What I got were vague directions about going north for a bit, then going east for a few miles, and then I’d just see the rig. Too intimated to ask for more clarification, I said “Okay, thanks”, when what I was thinking was “You’ll ‘just SEE it’? I never ‘just SEE it’!” With time I have learned to ‘see it’. This past year, I was a little surprised to hear

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myself say “You’ll just see it, you can’t miss the rig,” when I was giving driving directions to another geologist. Arriving at the wellsite for the first time, a feeling of vulnerability set in. I was the only woman on site and I was in a very remote location. I wondered if I would be safe in such a work environment. After meeting everyone on site though, I realized that they were all professionals, out there to do a job, just like I was, and it began to feel like any other workplace. An aspect that did not feel like any other workplace was that geologists live on site for the duration of the drill. Another challenge I encountered occurred when I began unpacking my supplies in the rental shack where I would sleep. I opened a drawer in the kitchenette and found...mice. I have since learned to bring my farm cat to the wellsite with me on jobs where pets are permitted. Mice have no longer been an issue. By far, the biggest challenge I have faced has been supervising and instructing crews of men. This is a challenge that has persisted throughout my career. Regardless of experience, a wellsite geologist is considered part of the management team at the wellsite, and is responsible for ensuring that all geologic parameters for the drill proceed properly. I have often had to relay orders from the company geologist to the directional drillers and drill crews, and this is sometimes met with resistance. The first time my instructions were met

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with resistance, I questioned whether this was caused by the nature of my request, or by my approach, or because of my gender. My first reaction was that they weren’t listening because I was a woman; but with time I have seen that male wellsite geologists face the same resistance at times. One female geologist told me of a particularly bad first wellsite experience she had with a directional driller she was paired with on a lengthy drill program. The driller refused to speak to her and refused to regard any of the geologic information she provided. This is almost the worst wellsite scenario for any geologist, as the integrity of the well being drilled was at stake – not to mention how unpleasant of a work environment it was. Due to her lack of experience, this geologist tolerated the behaviour, thinking that it was the norm, when in fact; the directional driller’s behaviour was highly unprofessional and should not have been tolerated by anyone, at any wellsite. Over time, I have learned how important communication is. It is difficult to tell a rig hand what you need done when you yourself don’t fully understand the procedure required to get the job done. It never hurts to ask questions. I have been told by the management team at the wellsite - engineers, directional drillers, and tool pushes – that they enjoy being asked questions about any aspect of drilling. They also are reassured when a new or “green” hand asks questions to better understand their job. Another way to gain technical knowledge at

the wellsite involves being where the action is. My boss has sent me to the rig floor at times to observe certain drilling procedures to gain a better understanding of what’s going on. There has only been one instance I can recall where being a woman has worked against me. I was asked by rig crew members to cook for them and bring them coffee, as though I were a waitress. Their blatant begging infuriated me and I curtly told them “No”. Unbeknownst to them, I gladly bake cookies as a reward for crews or individuals who do a particularly good job. Fresh baking delivered to the doghouse often improves the quality and delivery of my sample cuttings. A love of rocks brought me into the oil industry, and it keeps bringing me back to it time and again. I have had to learn much more than just geology to excel at being a wellsite geologist, but the more I learn, the more I like it. When it comes down to it, regardless if you’re a woman or a man working in the oilfield, putting in time and learning to communicate is the best way to improve your work experience. Let your voice be heard, even if it seems like all you’re doing is asking questions. When I am surrounded by people who take pride in doing a good job, who communicate well with all personnel at the wellsite; when everything with the drill runs smoothly, and I am in a mousefree shack, any wellsite becomes a paradise. Even if it’s minus 40°C (without the wind chill). FLEW

For 20 years Gilliss Power Tongs has been providing Men and equipment to meet the needs of S.E. Sask in a timely and safe manner. Our men are trained in all the required ﬁelds. And our equipment is maintained, inspected, and certiﬁed regularly to meet the industries demands as well as our customer standards.

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P: 634.6768 F: 634.6738 Estevan,SK

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GETTING ’ER DONE BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY JENELLE QUIGLEY

hey say there can be opportunity found with every problem. There is also truth in the fact that sometimes the new opportunity would never have occurred without having the problem to begin with. Kip and Annette Holt, owners of Blue Bear Hotshot Ltd, had a problem. That problem revealed a solution that changed their family’s life forever. At the time, they were living in Macklin, SK while Kip was working on the Alberta drilling rigs. He was working a typical schedule of being away for

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two weeks and then being home for one. The Holt’s have two daughters, currently nine and twelve, and because of Kip’s schedule he was missing out on a lot of their activities and achievements. “The lifestyle was not for us anymore,” says Annette. “So when the opportunity arose for us to purchase a truck and trailer we took the chance.” Blue Bear Hotshot was born on September 16, 2008. “Our name came about since Blue is my nickname and Kip's is Bear,” tells Annette, “seemed fitting as this is a joint venture.” Today,

nearly four years later, they have a thriving operation with five employees. Blue Bear Hotshot will deliver any oilfield tools or items to drilling rigs and service rigs from Alberta to Manitoba. Although oilfields are their main source of business they are not limited and will help anyone who needs a hotshot service. Kip, who is the dispatcher and operator, and Annette, who manages the office and will operate on occasion, try to be as accommodating with the customer as they can. “We have five, one ton

trucks and five trailers to accommodate most requests, “states Annette. They will haul anything for you from two pounds to upwards of twelve thousand. Accommodation is only half of what makes Blue Bear Hotshot so popular with their customers. The other half is their courteous and efficient staff and operation. Their goal is to be the fastest, safest and most courteous hotshot service out there and it shows. “In the summer we like to take cold water and drinks out to the rig hands because we know how welcomed a cold drink can be in above thirty degree weather,” tells Annette. Handing out treats isn’t just seasonal either; they will also surprise customers during the cold winter months. “I guess just doing everything in our power to make our customers happy is why we are as successful as we are.” Blue Bear Hotshot is playing it by ear as to when they are going to make the decision to keep expanding. Due to their consistent success in the industry, however, there is no doubt that it will be happening soon so they can help even more people and companies with their hotshot service needs. The Holt’s are also extremely appreciative of their five hardworking employees who continue to help the business grow. “We appreciate all their hard work and I know sometimes this life can be very tiring but they continue to be courteous and efficient,” Annette adds. FLE

Blue Bear Hotshot 521 Princess Street Estevan 461-5061 (Kip) or 461-5055 bluebear@sasktel.net. FineLifestyles

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Low fLying airpLanes attract attention By Shawna Common Photos Jenelle Quigley

hose small yellow planes you may have noticed flying low over southeastern Saskatchewan and southwestern Manitoba are inspecting oil fields and pipelines. Blue Sky Air is owned and operated by Laura and Scott Piper, and have been inspecting the oil industry’s facilities and pipelines for the last 30 years. People close to the international border have contacted the border police, because they thought these airplanes were suspicious. These

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airplanes are conducting inspections to ensure the safety of the residents, wildlife and environment. The company was founded by Laura’s father Nat Ooms in 1982 as a company that provided a variety of aviation services including passenger transportation, flight training, sky diver training, core sample delivery, oil field and pipeline inspection. Nat has been

conducting aerial inspections for over 50 years, and trained both Laura and Scott. Twenty years ago the oil industry demand for aerial inspections became so intense in the area, that Nat dedicated his business to strictly oil field and pipeline inspections. Nat is semi-retired, but he still enjoys conducting the occasional inspection. Laura and Scott took over the business in 2005, and there’s no sign of slowing down. Blue Sky Air is the only company in the area that is dedicated

solely to oil industry inspections; they don’t transport passengers or any cargo. The company has three planes that operate on a regular schedule from Monday to Thursday and they are also on call any day at any time. In two hours, one aerial inspector can cover what would take three or four battery operators four or five days to complete. Scott has been involved in the oil industry since his late adolescence and has been working as an aerial inspector for 14 years. Laura has 17 years of experience as an aerial inspector and both Laura and Scott are licenced commercial pilots. They are also licensed journeyperson aircraft mechanics and have a fully licensed maintenance shop at their airport along with two other full time licensed journeyperson mechanics. Blue Sky Air has an extensive six-week training program for licensed pilots; teaching the skills and knowledge needed to conduct aerial oilfield inspections. The Pipers have moved the base of operations to their acreage outside of Estevan that serves as their home and business with the oldest part of the facility only being six years old. The acreage has a privately owned public runway, maintenance shop, hanger, office and the Pipers’ private residence. Blue Sky Air has three Piper Supercruiser airplanes in operation, as well as three planes in the shop. The company added aerial photography for their customers over a year ago and is now licensed by Transport Canada to conduct aerial photography. Since none of the pilots are professional photographers, they are able to keep costs low for their customers. The maintenance shop is an Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO), so they are able to complete all their own maintenance and inspections. Scott is also an authorized dealer for some of the parts retailers located in the United States. The airplanes Blue Sky uses are well suited to their purpose, because they have tandem seating (one behind the other) which allows the pilot to see out of both sides of the airplane. It can fly slow less than 100 miles an hour, and is a third of the cost of a helicopter. They usually fly between 150 to 200 feet from the ground to ensure they avoid power lines and don’t disturb wildlife.

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Logan, Scott, Laura, Ashley, Ocean, Tyler, Joyce and Nat

Our society is more concerned about the environment than ever before, and the costs to clean up oil spills have skyrocketed. Customers say that Blue Sky Air is very inexpensive insurance, because they are able to catch leaks or problems before they cause any damage. They are also invaluable to companies that have facilities that are inaccessible due to flooding, muddy conditions or excessive snow accumulation. Blue Sky is committed to safety, and complies with all Transport Canada regulations regarding insurance, Workers’ Compensation Insurance, verifying licenses plus maintenance shop inspections and audits. Blue Sky Air is also registered with IS Networld and Contrails, which are companies that monitors safety and regulation compliance for the oil companies. Blue Sky Air is proud of its reputation and committed to safety and customer service. Customers are the company’s sales force because satisfied customers recommend their service. Visit their website at www.blueskyair.ca or call (306) 634-9333 to discuss your oil company’s inspection needs. FLEW Blue Sky Air Ltd. Box 22 Estevan,SK S4A 2A2 634-3844 blueskyair@sasktel.net www.blueskyair.ca

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FusioN iNdustriEs - Welding and fabrication business.

FusioN iNdustriEs - Established in 2004. - No Appointments necessary. - Welding and fabrication business. - Quality workmanship, steady - Established in 2004. repeat clients.

- No Appointments necessary. Kevin Anderson and Darwin Krall

son and Darwin Krall

- Quality workmanship, steady repeat clients. FusioN iNdustriEs Kevin Anderson and darwin Krall Box 1519, Estevan, sK 634.6177 | Fax 634.6178 fusioninc@sasktel.net

FusioN iNdustriEs

SUCCESS THAT SHOWS BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

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ith the boom in southeast Saskatchewan mainly due to the rapid growth of the Bakken Oil Field, opportunity to start a business and jump head first into the action has never been better. Tyrel Hansen and partners realized this and decided to take the bull by the horns and grow their own company. In December of 2011, Hansen and partners began Flex Energy Holdings and have been expanding quickly ever since. “Our business was started by realizing the ever increasing need for services in the southeast Saskatchewan area. With the increasingly busy oilfield there is always an opportunity to grow business. We started with Frac Bladders and hotshot service and through business and field

experience saw an ever increasing need for picker trucks and trucking in general,” says Hansen, when talking about how they started their company and how it’s already expanded.

what they offer is something that Hansen feels is vitally important and will never hesitate to make sure people know what they are doing or what certain equipment does.

Although Flex Energy Holdings is mainly focusing on work in southeast Saskatchewan, they have already ventured both east and west doing jobs in Alberta and Manitoba. They specialize in general oilfield work and currently have two picker trucks, 13 Frac Bladders and 11 hotshot trailers and are looking to add more.

A picker truck, for example, is a semitractor with a crane mounted onto the frame. The crane can swing 360 degrees and has telescopic sections to extend and reach. The picker truck is used to move tubing, casing, rods, tanks, matting out to service rigs and drilling rigs. All operators that work for Flex Energy are fully certified to run the cranes.

The Details

The frac bladders are a method of storing mass amounts of fluid on a location for long-term storage at battery’s or short

Knowing what a company does and

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term. The majority of the bladders are used for fracing purposes. Each bag can hold 190 cubic metres of fluid and are liked for the ease and speed of set up and removal. Their busy hotshot service hotshot is a 24 hour per day service used for transporting goods and loads that are smaller than the picker and semis usually haul. “We have 11 trailers varying in size from 22 feet to 35 feet. We have hauled anything from oilfield to agriculture and commercial sectors,” states Hansen.

The Service With the rapid rise to full schedules and big projects one would think that something would have to give with quality of service, but that’s not the case with Hansen and company. “The customers I have talked to have been very satisfied with the service they

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have received, which is our ultimate goal,” explains Hansen. “To ensure top notch service we remain flexible to the customer’s needs and work around what they need and when they need it. We work for the client and not for ourselves. I believe in giving the customer every possible thing that we can.” It’s a very busy industry and Flex Energy Holdings has already acquired a loyal following. Over 90 per cent of their business is from repeat customers. This is because of the accommodating fashion they approach the customer, leaving no stone unturned with their quality of service. Hansen and partners also have a deep caring for each one of their five employees who are helping Flex Energy Holdings continue to grow and expand to new levels. The staff is very friendly and personable, a quality that Tyrel Hansen believes is crucial to the success of their company and

satisfaction of their customers. It’s been a very fast rise for Flex Energy Holdings, but they are not taking any of that for granted as they continue to build a business that will be around for decades to come. “We are extremely happy with the growth of the company and look forward to continuing to provide our customers with outstanding reliable service, while continuing to focus on safety.” Contact Flex Energy Holdings at Box 1512, Weyburn, SK, S4H 3N8. You can also reach them by phone at 891-8535 or email at flexenergyholdings@sasktel. net. FLEW

Flex Energy Holdings Box 1512, Weyburn, SK Cell: 306-891-8535 Email: flexenergyholdings@sasktel.net

Your one stop shop for lube, fuel, farm, and oil industry service. Same day delivery 24hr service All your farm & petroleum needs

Girard Bulk Service ltd.

134 4th St. Estevan, SK S4A 0T4 estevan@girardbulk.ca

306.637.4370

NEW TECHNOLOGY USES LESS TO GET MORE FROM SHALE BY DAN GRANT PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY

nnovation isn’t something that management at NCS hopes for. It’s expected. “We have a pretty hardcharging, creative team,” says Marty Stromquist, Chief Operating Officer at NCS. “Our management team all have patents and inventions, not only with this company but with companies they have worked for in the past. Their recent work focuses on improving oil and gas production while protecting

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the environment, and they are changing the industry in the process.” “Since the day of our inception, our efforts have all revolved around more efficient technology that improves well production and maximizes recoverable reserves. If we can do a better job of stimulating wells, then oil companies can drain the reservoirs more completely. That’s

good for the environment, good for the community, public, stakeholders, and good for the oil companies. We aren’t leaving valuable resources behind, which is why ‘Leave Nothing Behind’ has become our slogan,” explains Stromquist. “Shale formations are what we call ‘tight’,” says Stromquist. “They hold enormous amounts of oil

and gas, but the only way to get it out economically is to create sand-filled fractures in the shale through which the oil and gas can flow more easily into the wellbore. So oil companies adopted the technique of multistage fracturing, where a series of such fractures is created along thousands of feet of horizontal wellbore. During the completion process, each stage or zone has to be isolated from the rest of the hole, so that fluid pumped at high pressure will create a fracture only in one section of the well at a time. Loading up frac sleeves for delivery

Early on, operators had two options for isolating the zones: plug-and-perf and drop-ball sleeves. Plugand-perf uses temporary plugs that are installed at each stage as the completion progresses from the bottom up. With a plug isolating the zone, special shaped-charge gun assemblies are run in and detonated, perforating the casing and providing access to the formation. The frac fluid is then pumped down the casing and out through the perforations to create the fracture. After all stages are completed, the plugs are drilled out to allow the well to produce. Drop-ball sliding sleeves are run as part of the completion casing (pipe). For each stage, a ball is pumped down to a restriction in the sleeve, where it blocks flow to isolate the zone. Then fluid pressure forces the inner sleeve to move down to open ports to the formation, and the frac is pumped down the casing and out through the ports. After completion, the balls flow back to the surface and the sleeve seats are typically drilled out to permit maximum production flow.

(l-r) Clayton Drysdale and Derek Campbell

“These methods have advantages and disadvantages,” says Stromquist, “but a major drawback is that they both use a lot of water, and that has become a concern for the public in many areas where shale is being developed. Our technology helps oil companies address that concern. In 2010, NCS introduced the Multistage Unlimited system, which not only reduces water consumption, but also eliminates the need to drill out plugs and ball seats and gives operators much more flexibility in terms of the number and location of fractures.

(l-r) Derek Barber and Derek Campbell (l-r) Jesse Babiarz and Darryl Capner

“What our engineers did,” says Stromquist, “is combine the sliding sleeve concept with the use of coiled tubing, which has long been used for well intervention and even drilling. This tubing, which is fed into the well from a large spool at the surface, enables us to run a special NCS-designed tool into the well to locate each sleeve, seal inside it to isolate the target zone, and shift the sleeve down to open the frac ports. No drop balls or pump-down

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plugs are needed. It also allows us to circulate frac fluids down to the target zone via the area between the tubing and the casing, with flow returns coming up to the surface through the tubing. In contrast, with plug-andperf and drop-ball sleeves, all fluids have to be ‘bullheaded’ straight down the casing and into the formation.” This circulating capability, along with the smaller volume of the coiledtubing/casing annulus, reduces water consumption by up to 20 per cent “That means we’re saving hundreds of thousands of gallons per well,” observes Stromquist. But NCS didn’t stop there. The company identified a category of wells that can be completed with a technique that saves even more water. In these wells, the frac fluid is pumped down through the coiled tubing and out a special sub added

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to the tool assembly. This system reduces water consumption up to 50 per cent, a number that is drawing a lot of attention from oil companies. “Saving water is certainly good environment policy,” says, Stromquist, “but our environmental advantages extend even beyond that. All our systems deliver equivalent or superior stimulation results using about half as much surface equipment as the other techniques. Instead of four frac units, for example, we need two. That means fewer trucks traveling to and from the well-site, less fuel consumed by pump engines, less noise, lower emissions, and more.” “We are very pleased to see our technology at work here in the Estevan area, and we will continue

our efforts to help the WCSB (Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin) develop its energy resources effectively, economically and responsibly,” Stromquist concludes. NCS is located at 73 Devonian Street in Estevan. For more information about NCS and their services call 306634-2092, email marty@ncsfrac.com or visit them at www.NCSfrac.com. FLEW NCS Oilfield Services 73 Devonian Street, Estevan, SK phone: 306 634.2092 www.NCSfrac.com jesse@ncsfrac.com Estevan District Manager Darryl@Ncsfrac.com Canadian Operations Manager 403 330.9021

ToP leFT A breathalyzer test ToP RighT Maskfit - an important safety service offered

S.E. OptiOnS COnSulting “ Our goal is to try and help however we can.” By Nykea Behiel phOtOS Doug Sully

ased on a growing need for occupational health and safety standards, companies have recognized a requirement to expand on their Occupational Health and Safety programs. They are striving to become

more proactive, rather than reactive, to problems as they occur. “Our goal is to try and help however we can,” says Lynn Tedford, owner and manager of S.E. Options Consulting a service which works to meet and achieve these standards.

More than 15 years ago, Lynn and her husband Garry began S.E. Options Consulting after they identified a need within the community for cross border truck driver compliance. As mining, oil and gas, and other industries have

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ToP leFT: Express Drug Testing ToP RighT: Spirometry (Lung Function) BoTToM: R.N. Medicals and S.G.I. Medicals are both available

grown, S.E. Options has added many more services to their menu, always working to accommodate the needs of their clientele and the community. These needs have required the business to evolve into a one-stop-shop where all technicians, as well as medical professionals, are trained to provide a variety of services. One of the main services they offer is substance abuse testing and assistance in developing a drug-free workplace. Under the

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occupational health services umbrella, S.E. Options Consulting also offers drug and alcohol awareness training, audiometric testing and hearing conservation, pulmonary function testing, mask fitting plus pre-placement and periodic medical evaluations. The provision of these services is available during regular business hours, as well as after hours when previous arrangements are made. Services are available in office and on site; meaning technicians are able to travel to any location necessary.

“We do what the company needs,” says Lynn. S.E. Options does their best to fulfill your company’s needs in ensuring a safe workplace. Lynn and her friendly staff work to accommodate businesses in a professional manner, ensuring efficiency and confidentiality. Services are dependent on what industries and companies request, but not limited to what they may already have in place— S.E. Options adapts to those needs as they arise. Working with similar providers at provincial, national and

ToP: Lynn Tedford, Owner, RighT: Audiometric Testing BoTToM leFT S.E. Options Consulting staff: Back Row: Lynn Tedford, Donna Moores, OHN, Launa Coyne, Technician Front Row: Tara Tedford, Technician, Angie Johnson, RN, Lyn Vilcu, Office Manager. Missing: Cindy Ward, RN

even international levels, S.E. Options Consulting is who to call for all your needs. Lynn and her team also offer U.S. Department of Transport (D.O.T.) Compliance services within an approved collection facility, with certified personnel for substance abuse and alcohol testing, as well as mandatory supervisor training.

“Each day is different, every day you’re dealing with different people— it’s the people that make it enjoyable.” This well-equipped team can also provide the SGI medical examinations required to obtain commercial classification for

truck drivers. With the addition of an occupational health nurse to their staff, they are able to accommodate a much recognized need within the community. Lynn likes the diversity of her work. “Each day is different, every day you’re dealing with different people—it’s the people that make it enjoyable.” The rest of her team feels the same. For the medical services, Angie Johnson and Cindy Ward are registered nurses; Donna Moores is the occupational health nurse. Lyn Vilcu, office manager, does much of the administrative aspects and is also a trained technician. Lynn’s daughter, Launa Coyne, has a focus on the on-site aspect, while her other daughter, Tara Tedford, specializes in technician services within the offices. Although they have their specialities, all employees are trained in every area,

assuring that S.E. Options Consulting can accommodate any company. This compassionate and efficient staff works well together. “We’re all friends and have known each other for many years,” says Lynn. “We respect each other.” With the belief that they have built a trusted reputation from longevity within the community, S.E. Options Consulting can accommodate the needs of small businesses to large corporations. For more information on the services they offer, call Lynn and her team to see how they can help you. FLEW

S.E. Options Consulting 1318 B 3rd Street Estevan, SK 306.634.9079 options@sasktel.net optionsconsulting.ca

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SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP FROM QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS BY SHAWNA COMMON PHOTOS BY DOUG SULLY AND CODY BARNSTABLE

ick Bourassa and Burke Barnstable purchased Universal Machine Shop from the previous owner on December 1, 2006, and are the operators of this busy Estevan business. Universal machine shop has served the Estevan area since 1963. The business specializes in maintenance and repair for the oil, power and mining industries. Universal Machine Shop is pleased to provide 24 hour on call service. They always have 4140 shafting, 1045 turned ground & polished steel, 660 bronze, aluminum bronze, 316 stainless

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steel round bars, pumpjack parts, wristpins, saddle shafts and tail shafts in stock. They have some of the best equipment in the trade including engine lathes, boring mill, milling machine, surface grinder and one of the largest drill presses in south east Saskatchewan. They have recently added a new MAZAK QTN 250 MY Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathe with live tooling to there already extensively tooled shop. They specialize in API threading, multiplex pump repair (new and re-sleeved stuffing boxes, nuts, Fluid end repair), and pump base levelling and grouting.

Universal Machine Shop is committed to exceptional customer service. Offering high quality workmanship and customer service that is second to none, Universal Machine Shop has earned a positive reputation that they are very proud of. Maintaining this reputation is not as difficult as one might think with the staff Universal Machine Shop has. With the exception of a part time student who is learning the trade, only top notch journeyperson machinists are currently employed at the shop. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow anything to leave the shop until it has been thoroughly inspected to ensure the

highest quality. This assists in ensuring that every customer who walks in gets the very best in service. Universal Machine Shop is so confident that you will be pleased with their work that they provide a guarantee and stand behind they products 100 percent. “Our fully certified staff ensures that only quality products leave our shop,” proclaims Nick. “We have a part-time student interested in the trade who works with and assists the journeymen. We want to promote the trade, and encourage the next generation of machinists. There is over 80 years’ experience in our shop which we are grateful to pass on to the next generations.” “We also offer 24 hour service, we understand that our clients cannot afford down time because the patch never sleeps which is why we are just a phone call away. We want our clients to know that we care about their business, and want them to feel confident with choosing Universal Machine Shop.” Universal machine shop is proud to be a part of their local community and is a member of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce. Universal Machine Shop supports several organizations including the sponsorship of a local street stock car at the Estevan Motor Speedway, Estevan minor hockey, baseball, Estevan drag racing, The Royal Canadian Legion, Estevan Elks; with their most recent donation to the Hearthstone community campaign, which is fundraising for the construction of the new Estevan Regional Nursing Home. The shop is located on the south side of the highway straight south of the overpass on Highway 39 East in Estevan. Call (306) 634-5323 for more information, or email burke. universalmachine@sasktel.net or nick. universalmachine@sasktel.net. FLEW

Universal Machine Shop Highway 39 East Estevan, SK 306 634-5323 burke.universalmachine@sasktel.net nick.universalmachine@sasktel.net

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l-r Jordan, Norman and Brandon

BUILT WITH WILL AND A STRONG WORK ETHIC by Dan Grant PHOTOS DouG Sully

rowing up on a farm in Southwest Saskatchewan might not be easy, but it sure is rewarding. It will leave you with an iron will and a strong work ethic. Norman and Brenda Cote raised their family with these principles. “I was taught that you work hard come rain or shine until the job is done, and I wanted my boys to have the same attitude,” says Norman. With a combination of Normans’ strong business sense and his two boys, Brandon and Jordan’s’ oilfield experience, they created the family

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owned and operated business Torrent Energy Services Inc. in September 2010. “We all work well together, and we all play a part of managing, organizing, and running the company,” says Brandon. With operations running just two years, they have experienced a lot of change and growth. They started with a meager one tanker trailer. However, that didn’t last long. They quickly expanded by adding additional trailers and trucks to their busy fleet. “Along with the growth we added multiple pieces of heavy equipment and a maintenance truck into

the equation,” says Jordan. Torrent offers a 24 hour on call service. They provide excavator, dozer, grader, and backhoe services. Along with semitractors that provide end dump services they also have a maintenance truck that provides a variety of services to the oil and gas industry, such as flow lining, turn a rounds, installations and repairs. As with every company, the quality of their customer service is always the telling sign if they will last or not. Torrent, not only understands that but they make

sure they provide the best service they possibly can. “Our customers have said we do great work and we have good employees,” says Brandon. That humble attitude most likely comes from all those years of hard work and discipline working with their father at their farm. No matter where it came from, though, the key point is that hard work and discipline are part of their philosophy to do that job right, and they pass those standards on to every employee. Both Brandon and Jordan hold a vision of where they would like to see their

company headed in the next few years and they are determined to make that happen. With their, already mentioned, strong work ethic and 24 hour on call service, they also have competitive rates to keep their momentum high as they evolve into the company they wish to become.

For such a young company, they have also been very involved in the community by making donations to the Weyburn Wildlife Federation, the Weyburn rodeo, Therapeutic Animal Park, Manor Fire Department and the local stock car racing (Poor Boys Motorsports). FLEW

So where would the Cote boys and Torrent Energy Services Inc. like to end up? “We would like to be known as a one stop shop in the oilfield construction and environmental clean-up sectors. We have the will to work and the equipment to do so.”

Torrent Energy Services Inc. 1518 Regina Avenue NW, Weyburn, SK, S4H 1W1 306.842.8985 torrentenergyservices@hotmail.com

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The INUA Therapeutic Bath by

INUA is the latest evolution in the TMU line of therapeutic baths. This collection invites you to reconnect with the life force within. In Inuit spirituality, INUA means “everything that lives” or the universal soul uniting all things in nature and in human life.

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Do You Know What Lawyers Can Do for You? It is tempting “to leave well enough alone” and to avoid dealing with issues until they arise. But to be forewarned is to be forearmed. Advance planning can prevent future problems, oﬀer options that may not be available at a later date, and can save you money, time, and grief.

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Deneschuk Homes has been building ready-to-move homes since 1975 and nobody does it better. With our experienced trades, quality craftsmanship and unique plans, we have been able to exceed our customers expectations for over 35 years and win numerous home building awards. Deneschuk Homes can coordinate every aspect of building your new home, from digging a basement to handling your mechanical and electrical completions. You can let us take care of it all or do some on your own. You decide. We consider ourselves a one-stop shop for your dream home. Enjoy the experience of choosing the details of your home with our design consultant in our relaxed selection room. Visit our office, check out some of our display homes and see the difference experience makes. Hwy 10 East Yorkton

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What You Need to Know About Cosmetic Surgery Research Your Surgeon

Not all surgeons are are created equal or have the same level of training or experience. Think about the game of golf – a weekend golfer will never make the PGA. Plastic surgeons are the same – the more procedures they have done with excellent results, the better their overall outcomes will be. It is also critical that you know their credentials. Verify that they have the training they are claiming and ensure your plastic surgeon is Board Certified. Seeing a certificate is not enough – always check directly!

See Real Examples of Their Work

If you are thinking about a facelift, ask for pictures of facelifts that your surgeon has actually done. If you are thinking about breast augmentation, ask to see pictures of breast augmentations. Be thorough in your research, after all – this is your body we are talking about!

Talk to Real Patients

It’s one thing to see beautiful before and after photos – but what do the people who have actually been through it have to say about their experience? How was the care? How well did the surgeon explain the procedures, risks and outcomes with them? How did they feel about their follow up care? Would they do it again? Would they recommend their surgeon to their own family?

Be Prepared

Leading up to your procedure, take extra care to eat healthy, fresh, low sugar foods that are high in protein. Make sure to drink lots of water and exercise – the healthier you are, the faster your recovery and the better your results will be. And read everything you can about the procedures you are considering. Knowledge is power!

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