Kamsack Times 2023-03-02

Tımes Kamsack

The Duck Mountain Loppet returns after pandemic absence

The 42nd annual Duck Mountain Loppet returned last Saturday, with people and families attending from all ages and places, with some coming as far as Regina, and some being close to 80 years of age skiing in the loppet.

Kevin Sutton, the organizer of the loppet said, “Many families are out here with their kids. There’s a two-year-old getting hauled around.

There’s moms pulling sleighs. I think our oldest skier this year is 79 so far as those that are registered, so we got it covered.”

After three years of inactivity due to COVID-19, the loppet returned for its 42nd year. This time it was Kevin Sutton and his wife Cheryl organizing the event, as the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation

Association’s volunteer of the year award-winning Bruno Lemire has retired from the loppet. Cheryl Sutton said, “So the 40th-anniversary loppet was in 2020. And that was the last year that Bruno Lemire organized.”

Lemire had also been known for creating a nature trail as part of the loppet, a trail decorated with wooden animals and creatures for kids to

enjoy as they skied by. Unfortunately, due to the cold temperatures, there were not as many kids registered for the event this year, so the Nature Trail wasn’t hosted. The loppet hosted five, 10, and 20-kilometre skate trails, five, 10, 20, 25, 30 and 40-kilometre classic trails, and the Jack Rabbit routes and paths for their younger attendees. The Jack Rabbit program is

organized by the Nordic Canada Ski program. The Jack Rabbit program tries to introduce kids to cross-country skiing in a safe and comfortable environment with most Jack Rabbit paths only being half-a-kilometre away from a ski shack. “We have hot dogs there for them and marshmallows that they can roast, fill themselves up and come on back. So

Jackrabbit is a Nordic Canada ski program that’s offered in larger centres. We have a group from Regina coming out. I think Yorkton is bringing some out. So there’s an opportunity for kids to get into a learn-to-ski program in the cities or in smaller communities that are called jackrabbits,” Kevin Sutton said.

The safety of the loppet

Skiers at the loppet, Paula (left), and Quinn Matz were enjoying the cool weather and the ski trails last Saturday.

Drone, knives, firearms, drugs located after vehicle search

BY RCMP MEDIA RELATIONS

From Feb. 13 to 19, a total of 5,809 reports were received within the Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction. Calls included: 47 impaired drivers, zero homicides, 16 sexual assaults, eight sexual crimes, 374 other assaults, 94 break-andenters, 187 thefts, 485 mischiefs, 140 traffic collisions, eight dangerous driving incidents, and one fatal collision.

Fatal overdoses

Saskatchewan RCMP is warning the public of the presence of dangerous illicit drugs in the south and southeast areas of Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan RCMP officers responded to three fatal overdoses involving suspected methamphetamine or fentanyl in the past week.

On Feb. 9, Assiniboia RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive man found in a residence in Assiniboia. EMS declared the 21-year-old man deceased at the scene. Police officers found crystals and an off-white powder at the scene suspected to be methamphetamine (meth) or fentanyl.

On Feb. 13, Moosomin RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive man found in a hotel room in Moosomin. EMS and police officers attempted CPR but the 22-year-old man was declared deceased at the scene. Police officers found a light-coloured powder at the scene suspected to contain methamphetamine (meth) or fentanyl.

On Feb. 14, Canora/ Sturgis RCMP responded to a report of an unresponsive woman found outside a residence in Preeceville. The

50-year-old female was taken to the Preeceville Hospital by EMS where she was pronounced deceased. Police officers found a white powder at the scene suspected to contain methamphetamine (meth) or fentanyl.

Through police investigation, the illicit drugs suspected to have been consumed prior to the three fatal overdoses are believed to be methamphetamine (meth) or fentanyl made available to the public in a powder form.

Autopsies and toxicology analyses will be performed by the Saskatchewan Coroners Service to confirm the nature and role of the illicit drugs in the suspected overdoses.

Saskatchewan RCMP is urging the public who consumes illicit drugs to take special precautions when using:

• Never use alone,

• Let someone you trust know of your plans to use,

• Always carry a Naloxone kit. They are available free of charge at many locations in the province,

• Call 911 if you suspect an overdose is occurring.

For more information on ways to protect yourself, or someone you know, when using illicit drugs, read Saskatchewan RCMP renews warnings about the dangers of illicit drugs after recent overdoses.

If you have information regarding these incidents or the substances involved in these incidents, please call Saskatchewan RCMP at 306-310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously

through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222TIPS (8477) or submitting a tip online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com.

Scam

On Feb. 13, La Ronge RCMP received a report of a possible scam in the name of RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki which was received via email. We are notifying the public of the existence of this scam and confirming it is not legitimate.

Stolen items recovered

Two people are charged and multiple items seized after a search of a vehicle took place between Île-àla-Crosse and Canoe Narrows on Feb. 14.

On Feb. 6, Buffalo Narrows RCMP received a report of a break-andenter and theft from a residence in Buffalo Narrows. It was reported that several firearms were stolen from the residence, including several duty items and a firearm belonging to a conservation officer with the Provincial Protective Services Branch. These items were being properly stored at the time the theft was reported.

As a result of extensive investigation by Buffalo Narrows RCMP and Meadow Lake CRT, a traffic stop was initiated on a SUV on Highway 155 between Île-à-la-Crosse and Canoe Narrows. The vehicle pulled over and a search took place. Police recovered several of the items reported stolen, including the conservation officer’s firearm. Other items located inside the vehicle include suspected cocaine and methamphetamine, a quantity of cash, cellular

phones, another firearm, a drone, knives, bear mace and a baton.

Two people were in the vehicle and arrested. Charges include: possession of weapon in a motor vehicle, possession of restricted weapon without license/ registration, possession of weapon obtained by crime, unauthorized possession of a weapon, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, unsafe storage of a firearm, possession of weapons contrary to surrender authorization, possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine), possession for the purpose of trafficking (methamphetamine), and failure to comply with conditions of an undertaking, Discharge of firearm

Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 14, Meadow Lake RCMP responded to a report of a firearm discharged at a residence on the 0-100 block of Clark Crescent in Meadow Lake. Thankfully, no one inside the residence reported any injuries to police. Police officers responded and conducted patrols in the area and no suspects were located. Multiple holes inside and outside the residence were located by investigating officers, consistent with a shooting occurring.

Initial investigation has determined this incident may be gangrelated. It was reported a black truck was in the area at the time the shooting occurred. A black truck was reported abandoned on 6th Avenue East in Meadow Lake around 4:30 a.m.

Feb. 15. Investigators believe this truck is connected to the incident on Clark Crescent. This investigation is ongoing.

Passed out driver arrested

On Feb. 14 a male was arrested after being located passed out in a running vehicle stopped in a residential area in Swift Current. As a result of subsequent investigation and a search of the vehicle by Swift

Current Municipal RCMP and the Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), officers located quantities of suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, other drugs, quantities of cash and a drug paraphernalia. The male is charged with: possession for the purpose of trafficking (fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine and benzodiazepines), and possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000.

Armed robbery

Pierceland RCMP received a report on Feb. 16 at approximately 9:15 p.m. of an armed robbery on Deer Lake Trail in Pierceland. Investigation determined an adult male and an adult female were parked in an SUV at the roadside, when two other vehicles approached them. The adult male exited the SUV. There was an altercation between him and individuals in the other vehicles. A firearm was discharged and the male was injured. The SUV was then stolen. The male and female were able to walk away and call for help. The male was treated at the hospital for injuries described as non-life-threatening.

Pierceland RCMP immediately began searching for the suspects, with the assistance of Loon Lake RCMP. Later that evening, they

located one of the suspect vehicles on Island Lake First Nation and arrested the three occupants. Officers located and seized two prohibited firearms, ammunition, bear spray and a machete in the vehicle. As a result of further investigation, Pierceland RCMP arrested two additional individuals on Feb. 17. The stolen SUV was recovered on Mudie Lake First Nation. Charges include: robbery, discharge of firearm with intent, discharge of firearm while being reckless, aggravated assault, unlicensed possession of a restricted firearm, possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, pointing a firearm, unsafe storage of a firearm, possession of a firearm when knowing possession is unauthorized, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, possession contrary to order, and failure to comply with release order condition.

Report tips and information

If you have information about any of the above crimes, or other criminal activity, please report it to your nearest RCMP Detachment or police service, call 310RCMP in non-emergencies, 911 in emergencies. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222TIPS (8477) or submitting a tip online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com. Report some complaints such as damage/ mischief to property under $5,000, theft of bicycle under $5,000, theft under $5,000, theft from vehicle under $5,000, lost or found property, and damage/mischief to vehicle under $5,000 online here: https://ocresielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ saskatchewan/en.

Sask. sisters face long wait for bail decision

BY LISA JOY SASKTODAY.ca

YORKTON – Two sisters who say they were wrongfully convicted in 1994 of the murder of 70-year-old Joseph Dolff of Kamsack will have to wait a little longer to find out their fate.

On Feb. 23, a judge at Yorkton Court of King’s Bench reserved his decision until March 27 on whether sisters Odelia and Nerissa Quewezance will be released on bail.

The Saulteaux sisters had a bail hearing in January. After the hearing Justice Donald Layh adjourned his decision a month. Then, on Feb. 23 he adjourned his decision for another month, until March 27.

The sisters have maintained their innocence

since they were convicted in 1994 of second-degree murder in the 1993 death of Kamsack-area farmer Anthony Joseph Dolff. The sisters’ cousin – who was a youth at the time - has repeatedly admitted that he is the one who killed Dolff and not the sisters. He was sentenced to only four years in prison and the sisters were sentenced to life in prison. Coinciding with the bail hearing in Yorkton In January, Dan Godbersen, Executive Director of Michel Callihou Nation Society, was at the Leg in support of Odelia and Nerissa Quewezance. He was hoping to meet with Minister of Justice and Attorney General Bronwyn Eyre and present a petition calling for their release.

The sisters’ convictions are currently under review by the federal justice department as a possible miscarriage of justice.

In November 2022 during Question Period in the Saskatchewan legislature when asked if she supported the federal review of the Quewezance matter, Minister Eyre replied “we are aware that there’s a federal review currently under way in this case, Mr. Speaker, and we must let that take its course. Of course, these convictions were upheld at the Court of Appeal. The Supreme Court decided not to hear the case. And it would be inappropriate for me, Mr. Speaker, to comment further.”

Nerissa and Odelia have the support of highprofile advocates such

as Senator Kim Pate, Innocence Canada, Kim Beaudin from Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, the late David Milgaard and retired judges Justices Harry LaForme and Juanita

Westmoreland-Traore – who were appointed by federal justice minister David Lametti to head the creation of an independent Criminal Case Review Commission to review wrongful

convictions.

Correctional Service of Canada has tentatively scheduled a parole hearing for Nerissa Quewezance in May. With files from John Cairns and Ryan Kiedrowsk.

Saskatchewan’s Charity: Highlights of TeleMiracle 47

SASKATOON - TeleMiracle –

Saskatchewan’s Charity –wrapped up its 47th edition Feb. 26 in Saskatoon. As of 5 p.m., the final numbers on the video tote board showed a total of $5,519,229 raised. With this year’s incredible generosity added, the total raised by TeleMiracle since 1977 is now over $158 million.

“TeleMiracle remains rooted in Saskatchewan and the generosity of Saskatchewan people really shined through once again this weekend,” said TeleMiracle 47 Chair Scott Lamb in a release. “These donations are going to help so many people across the province.”

One of the many highlights of this year’s show were the 80 talented Saskatchewan performers who appeared throughout the telethon. Not only did these acts showcase the scope of talent from every corner of the province, they also raised money for the telethon – which was once again matched by Nutrien, who presented their donation of $108,182 just before the end of the broadcast.

“Every dollar counts and we are so grateful to the people of Saskatchewan for their continuing support,” stated Lamb. “The best part is that all the money raised stays right here in Saskatchewan, to help their friends, neighbours and

communities.

Another highlight was the tributes in memory of former long-time host Bob McGrath, who made more than 40 appearances on TeleMiracle, beginning with the first telethon in 1977, with a final live appearance in 2018 and a cameo in 2021. McGrath passed away on Dec. 4, 2022.

All TeleMiracle proceeds stay in Saskatchewan and are granted through the Kinsmen Foundation for specialized medical and mobility equipment, assistance with medical travel, and new and innovative health care equipment. The Foundation typically receives over 1,000

Engineer temporarily barred after bridge collapse

RM OF CLAYTON — The engineer that designed a bridge in the RM of Clayton that collapsed within hours of opening to the public has been temporarily prohibited from practicing.

The Dyck Memorial Bridge collapsed on Sept. 14, 2018.

In June 2022, the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan held a discipline hearing for Scott Gullacher to investigate five counts of professional misconduct, four of which were connected to the collapse of the bridge.

On Jan. 24, the panel issued a written decision that stated Gullacher was found guilty of three of those counts, two of which were connected to the collapse of the bridge.

It determined that Gullacher did not practice in a careful and diligent manner because he chose to proceed with design and

construction work without doing a site-specific subsurface investigation, and did not provide adequate engineering designs for the helical piles used in the foundation system for the bridge.

The panel looked into whether or not Gullacher offered services, advice or undertook professional assignments outside of his area of competency, and if he practiced in a careful and diligent manner in the overall design of the bridge. The panel determined there was insufficient evidence to prove those counts.

The final count related to five other municipal bridges, one located in each of the RMs of Scott, Caledonia and Mervin and two located in the RM of Purdue. The designs prepared by Gullacher for the five municipal bridges lacked relevant design information, including inaccurate representation of bridge designs, numerous Canadian Highway Bridge

Design Code deficiencies, lack of critical detail on plans for welding details, among other deficiencies. This resulted in five superstructure designs that were inadequate to carry the minimum loads required by the code.

The panel will hear submissions related to the disposition of the matters from an investigation committee and Gullacher at a hearing scheduled for March 13, the association said. Then a final written order will be issued to Gullacher. If there is no appeal, the order will be published in the spring.

The association said the role of the panel was limited by statute to hearing the evidence presented to it and then determining whether the charges against Gullacher were proven on a balance of probabilities. It was not tasked with determining the cause of the collapse of the Dyck Memorial Bridge.

applications for assistance annually.

Donors that made phone pledges during the telethon can honour them by mailing their donation to TeleMiracle at Box 83000, Saskatoon SK, S7K 9S1.

Planning begins shortly for TeleMiracle 48, to take place Feb. 24-25, 2024 in

Regina. Details leading up to next year’s show will be posted at www.telemiracle. com.

TeleMiracle celebrates its 47th year in 2023.

Through the proceeds of this annual telethon, the Kinsmen Foundation is Helping People Every Day in Saskatchewan, to

Important Dates:

Mar. 2 Yellow Zone Waste & Recycling Collection

Mar. 9 Green Zone Waste & Recycling Collection

Mar. 13 Town Council Meeting

Mar. 16 Yellow Zone Waste & Recycling Collection

Mar. 23 Green Zone Waste & Recycling Collection

Mar. 27 Town Council Meeting

Mar. 30 Yellow Zone Waste & Recycling Collection

Learn more at www.kamsack.ca

Voyent Alert

A New, Free Communication Tool to help our residents & visitors stay informed! Learn more, including how to register, at www.kamsack.ca

Kamsack Landfill: Winter Hours

Open on Tuesdays & Fridays from 8 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4:30 pm; closed from 12 pm to 1 pm and on all Statutory Holidays. Tickets must be bought in advance from Town Office. Landfill tickets do not expire.

Preparation of Assessment Roll

The 2023 Assessment Roll has been prepared and is open to inspection at Town Office from March 13 to April 13 during regular hours. Any person who wants to appeal an assessment must file a notice of appeal, along with the $50 appeal fee, for each assessment under consideration. The deadline to appeal is April 13

Sask Lotteries Grant Recipients

2022 to 2023 Programs must be completed by March 31. Follow Up Reports will be due shortly after.

improve their independence and quality of life. The Foundation provides specialized mobility and medical equipment to people and organizations throughout the province, as well as travel assistance for residents in need of vital medical treatment outside their home community.

2023 Property Tax Discounts

The Property Tax Discounts for Early Payments are:

- 3% in March & April

- 1% in May & June

The Discount Rate applies to every property tax payment you make, whether partial or in full. The discount only applies to the Municipal Portion of Property Taxes.

Stop the Spread

March is the last month to trim Dutch Elm Trees. These trees cannot be trimmed between April 1 and August 31 of each year to help prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease in our community. Thank you for helping protect our natural beauty.

Thank You Sask Lotteries

Because of Sask Lotteries’ generous support, we were able to provide over $17,000 to our local sports, culture and recreation organizations! The Town was also able to purchase 2 additional aquatic wheelchairs, measuring 14 inches and 28 inches. Once these arrive, we will be able to accommodate a wide variety of abilities at the pool and can’t wait to see you in the water!

Help Us Protect You & Yours

The Kamsack Volunteer Fire Department needs you; those few brave and devoted individuals who will answer the call.

If you hold the qualities of the courageous and exceptional, contact the Fire Chief, Ken Thompson, at (306) 590-0096 to learn more.

Nerissa and Odelia Quewezance embrace in January for the first time in 18 years.

Photo by Ryan Kiedrowdki/SASKTODAY.ca

Canora, Saskatchewan

Phone: 306-563-5131 · Fax: 306-563-6144

Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri.: 8 am – 12 pm, 1 pm – 5 pm

Tues.: 8 am – 12 pm, closed afternoons

LOOKING BACK A decade ago

During minus 50 temperatures, the Eaglestone Lodge held a “Mexican Holiday” for their residents, with burritos, ponchos, sombreros, stick-on moustaches, and even a piñata being included in the makeshift holiday. *****

Since the KCI junior Spartans Basketball team played well at conference playoffs, James R. Graham dyed his hair blue and had his head shaved into an ear-to-ear Mohawk by the team, as he had made a promise to do so if they played well.

*****

The Kamsack Power House Museum began plans to celebrate the centennial of the town of Kamsack’s first power plant.

*****

Dan Owen of Hudye Soil Services, was presented the 2013 award for Agronomist of the Year at an annual meeting of the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers. *****

The mayor of Kamsack, Rev. Nancy Brunt was ordained as an Anglican Church Deacon at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Yorkton. *****

About 400 tickets were sold at a Norquay Kin Club Telemiracle supper and auction, where Jordyn Kllniak , Sarah Lukey , Jade Nordin , and Emersun Westerhund enjoyed a visit with the Telemiracle Mascot, Telemiracle Teddy.

What does the future hold for our energy industry? The Ag Scene

What the face of our energy industry will look like into the future is obviously a matter of much debate these days.

We clearly have a fractured view of what that future should look like, at least among the populace.

The science community at least seems generally to be hoping for a particular future, one where energy consumption does less in terms of damaging our atmosphere, although you can find those not worried about it too.

Certainly it seems likely our world is a long, long way from moving away from mass consumption of energy. An aerial view of any big city freeway during rush hour or a look at the flight schedules at any major airport confirms that, as does a quick inventory of every electrical device in a modern home.

So assuming we

CALVIN DANIELS

continue to consume energy in massive amounts, which is the best source of that energy?

Well that can depend on from which perspective you are coming at the question.

There is the cost to consumer most will care about, although one might expect that factor may be lost as bigger concerns are dealt with.

Of course that bigger issue is the future of our planet, and that’s where the real debate begins.

It was only a matter of a few years ago it seemed a significant part of the solution was a move away

from fossil fuels to greater use of biofuels.

While that might still generally hold true, the biofuels industry itself is evolving.

For example, canola producers were excited by the prospect of canola oil going into biodiesel as an alternate market. It seemed to make sense at least from the perspective of canola being a renewable energy source.

But canola oil for a car engine takes away food from human mouths too, and long term that is likely troubling as the world has put zero effort into limiting population

growth to the point of barely acknowledging the issue.

And now there are reports Germany may ban crop-based biofuels by 2030 as part of that country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It would be part of a trend to governments trying to be more ‘earth friendly.’

For example, www.producer.com reports “there is already a move afoot in the EU to phase out palm oil and soy oil-based biofuels due to concerns surrounding deforestation.”

Of course the question then arises, what backfills plant-based oil sources for biodiesel moving forward to reduce fossil fuel use?

Certainly there are more questions about energy sources friendly to the earth than there are answers today, including can agriculture be part of long term answers?

The joys and frustrations of getting an early start on planting

For some gardeners, starting seeds indoors has become a thing of the past. Lack of space to put the seedlings, lack of time, and the cost of seeds are all contributing factors. Plus, it is so convenient to get such a wide variety of seedlings in the spring. How tempting it is to see those flats of cheery little plants at the greenhouses! Who can resist them?

But gardeners love a challenge! Some enjoy starting their favourites, and some want to try something unusual that they have seen in a seed catalogue. This is why most gardeners are willing to put in the time and effort into starting seeds. And that’s why we’re willing to fuss with seedlings in empty juice cartons or old coffee cups, and move them from sunny spot to sunny spot in our homes until spring,

For those who enjoy the fun of starting their own plants, even though we’re all eager to start planting, one of the biggest mistakes we can make is planting too early. We risk losing our plants from damping off, or from the plants getting too gangly. Unless we have grow lights, it’s hard to find a good spot to keep our seedlings. We should be careful about setting plants on windowsills because of the extreme difference in temperature during the day and at night. It is much better to set a small table or shelf in front of the window for our plants.

Use a soil-less mix to start our seeds. This will be a mixture of peat moss and vermiculite or some

The Garden Grapevine

DEBBIE HAYWARD

similar product that lightens the mixture. This medium will be sterilized and free of weed seeds. Do not use soil from the garden! It is far too heavy and we may bring in fungus problems and other little pests that will greatly reduce the success of your seedlings. Fill containers evenly, right into the corners.

Next, read the instructions on the seed package to be sure that we are starting our seeds properly. Some seeds require light to germinate, while others prefer darkness. Here’s a great tip – for very fine seeds, like petunias, get an old salt shaker, mix some very fine sand with the seeds, and sprinkle it that way to ensure even distribution.

Now, we wait. Hopefully, within a few days, we’ll see our little plants poking out of the soil. At this time, we should move them to a warm, sunny spot. Be very attentive to keep the soil evenly moist;

seedlings have very small root systems and if the soil dries out, we’ll lose our plants. At this stage, we have to check our little babies possibly twice a day!

Once they get bigger, and have actual true leaves, we can transplant them into their own individual containers. After transplanting, we should keep them out of bright sun for the first day – they are in a tender and stressed condition. Later, we can water them with a weak mixture of fertilizer.

Continue to be attentive to the plants’ needs, and we’ll be ready when the plants can go outside. Here again, be careful to harden them off slowly.

Speaking of soil-less mix, an important component in this mixture is peat moss. Peat moss can retain up to 20 times its weight in moisture, so it is invaluable in helping plants stay moist and healthy. Peat moss does the double duty of helping to aerate soil, but also helping it to stay together because of its fibrous texture. And another interesting factoid, there is a horticultural peat industry in Canada, and the bogs used for this purpose are managed in an environmentally sustainable way; they provide a great portion of the peat moss used in North America.

The days are getting longer. Now when we look at our seed catalogues, it is more than just an exercise in wishful thinking. We know that spring is getting closer every day!

Have fun ordering seeds, and have a lovely week.

There’s More to Social Media Than the Big 5

All industries have “big players.” Coke, Apple, Ford, Microsoft, Amazon, Walmart... Social media is no different.

As I write this, the big five social media platforms (worldwide) by monthly active users (MAUs) are:

1. Facebook (2.9 billion)

2. YouTube (2.56 billion)

3. WhatsApp (2 billion)

4. Instagram (1.47 billion)

5. TikTok (1 billion) (Twitter ranked #16, with 436 million MAUs, and LinkedIn is #18, with 310 million MAUs.)

In my opinion, the big social media companies are no longer offering their users what they really want: Having meaningful conversations and maintaining relationships. Having a meaningful and respectful discussion on a public platform is a challenging – akin to impossible

– task. Everyone scrutinizes everything, and unlike-minded individuals jump in (unprompted) to declare that they are offended by your viewpoints. Then they berate you and negatively label you.

What existing platforms do incredibly well is create datasets for building algorithmic recommendations for their users. However, this is to create stickiness to their platform and is anything but “social.”

More and more, I am hearing from people who are turning away from the big social media platforms and migrating to smaller ones. Trolls and the pressure of constantly having to flex to receive “likes” and “shares” are their reasons. They are eschewing traditional social media for digital campfires – intimate online destinations where they can communicate privately or form/be part of micro-communities.

Several sites, such

as BeReal, WeAre8, Discord, Mastodon, Geneva, Patreon and Substack, where you can find and subscribe to my newsletter, The Art of Finding Work, promote community building in private spaces. These sites offer digital arenas where conversations can happen with likeminded people; thus, the exchanges are more likely to be civil. Finding one’s tribe, where one belongs and therefore feels welcomed, is highly appealing.

The sites I just mentioned, and many more, are countering what social media, for the most part, has become – an unwelcoming place.

While I do not believe there will be a mass exodus from the big social players, I do believe that by year-end, the social media landscape will look quite different than it does today as users seek out safer, more welcoming communities.

As of late, major platforms are doubling down

on AI-driven algorithmic content. In contrast, emerging platforms are focusing on building communities.

Lately, I have been asking myself, “What motivates me to use social media? What has brought me to Twitter, my digital drug of choice, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, et al.?”

More importantly, “Why do I keep coming back?” When I have a definitive answer, you will be the first to know.

In many respects, social media has become much like the news. It plays a pivotal role in creating divisive and polarizing messages, enabling a sense of fear and scarcity or uniting us against the angst caused by the content.

What differentiates our respective experiences on social media, whether you see it as a toxic digital soup or a place to digitally hang with those you “get along with,” is not what is presented to you;

rather, it is the conversations you choose to participate in.

The decision to engage in divisive narratives or be involved in enriching, uniting and communal conversations is entirely your choice.

Social media’s core danger is that whatever we go looking for, we will find. Suppose you want to prove others wrong based on their religious beliefs, sexual orientation, race, sex, political ideology etc. In that case, you will find all the reasons why some people are evil and the cause of our society’s ills. It is in our DNA to see what we want to see.

Conversely, if you are looking for stories about people coming together, working together, from different backgrounds, you will find them. You will find unifying narratives because that is what you are looking for.

The question is, what lens are you searching for stories through? Is it a divisive lens – and to make

yourself feel “right” about your opinions? Or is your lens a unifying one?

In the era of postCOVID social media, success is not based on follower count. Instead, it is based on what value you offer and how that value impacts your chosen digital communities.

In other words, your number of followers and the social media platform’s algorithms are rapidly becoming irrelevant.

You achieve social media success today by turning your followers into loyal community members and being intentional with every word you deliver to those who engage with your content and share your beliefs and values.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Nick Kossovan, a selfdescribed connoisseur of human psychology, writes about what’s on his mind from Toronto. You can follow Nick on Twitter and Instagram @NKossovan.)

A provincial remedy to the excesses of medical assisted suicide

OPINION COLUMN BY GORDON FRIESEN PRESIDENT OF THE EUTHANASIA PREVENTION COALITION

TROY MEDIA

Decriminalizing

“Medical Assistance in Dying” (MAiD) in 2016 apparently confirmed a powerful social bias in favour of personal freedom. Presented as a free choice – affecting no one else – euthanasia seemed acceptable to most Canadians.

However, this tells only part of the story, for euthanasia is not only about death by choice; it is also defined as highpriority medical care. Unfortunately, like a new organism released in an established ecosystem, the arrival of euthanasia could not fail to affect every detail of the medical environment.

First of all, it is an ethical requirement for doctors to inform patients of all available treatment options. This means informing each

patient of their “right” to access euthanasia (MAiDs). The typical non-suicidal patient is thus immediately confronted with the possibility of assisted death, in the same way that one is confronted by an open elevator shaft or a missing guardrail. Suddenly a danger exists which must be consciously avoided.

Nor does the threat end there. Doctors are expected to proactively prescribe optimal treatment (to which the patient normally consents), but some doctors are very partial to euthanasia. It is thus to be expected that many patients will succumb to the suggestion of these “professionals,” even though they would never have spontaneously thought, themselves, to request assisted death.

Indeed, it is not easy to fix a clear boundary between the legitimate professional duty to convince recalcitrant patients of what is truly best for them, and the abusive application of “undue influence” in proposing death as treatment. Certainly, this is a slippery slope!

Roger Foley, for example, eloquently describes being offered euthanasia on multiple occasions during a prolonged hospital stay caused by

his inability to obtain adequate care at home. Eventually, hospital staff informed Foley that he would either have to pay an exorbitant daily fee or be discharged without the care he needed to survive. Accounts of this situation were naturally greeted with outrage by the press. But there also remains a sort of perverse logic in defense of the hospital based on the medical definition of MAiD. By refusing euthanasia, Foley had effectively refused the proposition of a perfectly legitimate medical treatment, which would normally lessen the hospital’s responsibility towards him considerably.

Similarly, in the now-famous scandal of Canadian veterans being offered MAiD for PTSD, we must remember that Bill C-7 authorizes euthanasia for mental illness without any physical issues. Therefore, while many Canadians might agree that the offending caseworker behaved misguidedly, no one in authority has affirmed that veterans will not be euthanized for PTSD. Quite the contrary: in today’s legal and medical setting, it is a virtual certainty that they will be offered MAiD.

To suggest that human life should be ended

according to medical criteria is an entirely different proposition from saying that people might be allowed to seek assistance in death of their own free will. As euthanasia is increasingly institutionalized, and as a younger generation of professionals becomes fully adjusted to its “medical” use, we must expect that typical patients will face an increasingly hostile clinical environment if they do not accept the recommended treatment. We are witnessing the transition of our entire health care system to a new utilitarian model that is totally at odds with traditional assumptions of lifeaffirming care.

This is not what Canadians thought they were getting. And more importantly, there has been no serious debate about making such a radical change.

Happily, one glimmer of hope is to be found in the fact that health is a provincial responsibility; that just as Quebec was able to define euthanasia as medical care, so other provinces can revisit their decision. And without being able to prohibit euthanasia entirely (an exclusively federal power), each province and territory can permit or

forbid euthanasia in any institution under its authority. They are free to decide whether their funds will support euthanasia, and free to regulate the behaviour of health professionals.

These are very serious concerns. Health care consumes nearly a full third of all government spending. Do Canadians

wish to pay for a system that will care for us when needed? Or do we want to pay for a system designed to bury us at the lowest possible cost?

Gordon Friesen has been following the assisted death question closely since the early 1990s and is currently President of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition.

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

Aniwarsary

A year has gone by

Many soldiers had to die

The Ukrainians fight for their land

Impeding the Russians expand.

The NATO countries support their plight

With support and weapons for the Ukrainians to fight

The conflict might develop into a third world war

A development that the world would abhor.

A year of hostile action by the Russian Bear

Has created a feeling of silent despair

Among the Russian people in support of Ukraine

Who believe that Putin’s war is insane.

I pray for these hostilities to end

And an enduring peace would descend

Among the nations a harmonious peace

Where all hostilities would cease.

LOPPET

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE was unquestioned with the Canadian Ski Patrol helping during the event, with various tents and volunteers patrolling the paths to ensure everyone was safe.

Sutton, reflecting on the safety of the loppet, said, “Well, there are no real safety concerns, everybody progresses at their own rate. The Hills are just very hilly here and that surprises a lot of people. So it takes them by surprise from a fitness point of view and also from a technical skill point of view. Can you take a little corner going downhill? Do you have the technique

to go up-hill? And can you check your speed if it’s a really steep hill, which there are, do you know how to Snowplow, so it’s a progressive type of thing.

“It’s kind of like golfing. Sometimes you can golf forever and not get any better. But with skiing you can certainly improve your fitness and, with some tips, you can improve your technique which makes it more efficient for you and makes it safer for you.

And our trails are pretty safe trails, they’re technical trails, but we make sure we have appropriate signage up. We make sure that we don’t have any traps if they are at the bottom of the hill. We don’t

want any corners at the bottom of the hill. So we’re pretty vigilant about that. And these trails have been here for over four decades so people have skied them both ways and people can tip over on a golf course as easily as they can on a steep up or down hill.”

“For those that didn’t come out this year because it was on the cold side, we’ve gotten colder than this. At minus 37 we teed off one time. And it’s not as hard as you think, we have 5k to 40k trails. And there’s a bit of a mix and match, if you want you can bail earlier since there are bailout routes. And you can always just do short ones and add on another

loop. You don’t need a ton of fitness, you can gain a bit of confidence and come on out, it’s a great lifetime sport.

“We also have a heated outhouse now, a toasty tooshie toilet.” Anne Stupak, on her 68th birthday attended the event for her 27th year attending the loppet, and said, “The Trails are the cleanest I’ve seen in decades. Without

the wind they’re perfect. Kevin did a superb job.”

The event has had a notable amount of organization put towards it, with approximately 30 volunteers helping behind the scenes and out on the trails. The loppet partnered with Jared Ruf of In Good Taste Togo to host a dinner at the Border Mountain House after the skiing closed for the day.

The dinner included sausage and perogies, a hearty hot meal after a fun day in the cold snow. The dinner was planned to have the country singer Ryan Keown play following the meal. But unfortunately, due to weather concerns, the singer and his band couldn’t make it, so the performance had to be rescheduled to another night.

Skateboard Lessons held with donated equipment

Skateboard lessons were held from Tuesday last week until yesterday. With Recreation Director Ben Sipple and Darrell Lomenda organizing the lessons at the OCC hall. Starting slowly with only one student on Tuesday last week, Quinn Erhardt, the lessons grew to have a fair group of up to four students aged 5 to 16.

“We’re extremely impressed with how extremely quickly they (the students) have been picking it up.”, Ben Sipple said.

The students were taught various skills of skateboarding, such as properly wearing safety equipment, balancing on a board, steering a board, moving on a skateboard, and stopping a skateboard.

The skateboard equipment was provided with the lessons so that kids could try out skateboarding before having to commit to buying skateboarding equipment. The equipment was purchased using the Parkland Valley and Sask Lottery community outreach grant, which gave the Town of Kamsack $300 dollars to spend on equipment for the Skateboard lessons.

Ben Sipple said, “We’re looking forward to having this equipment being available to the public somehow in the future.

So kids can increase their skillsets and explore activities which they might enjoy.”

There are no further plans for official skateboard lessons in the future, as the town wishes to just make the equipment available to the public in the future, so they could pick it up on their own terms.

Alvin (left) and Matheo Pulga (right) were enjoying a hot chocolate before they went off for their ski.

Kevin Sutton and his wife Cheryl organized the loppet this year. Both have attended previous loppets, but this year is their first as organizers.

Quinn Erhardt learned how to stop her board on Monday last week with the help of Darrell Lomenda, Skateboard instructor.

Annual Masonic Lodge Shrove Tuesday returns

Pancakes and breakfast sausages were offered at the Masonic Lodge last week on Shrove Tuesday for supper. This “breakfast for supper” attracted approximately 68 people to the event, with each adult paying $10 for entry and each child paying $5 for entry.

The Shrove Tuesday supper was organized and cooked by the masons and their wives. Rod Gardner was behind the kitchen flipping some pancakes and chuckled when he mentioned, “Where there’s food, you’ll usually find me.”

Gardner was no doubt referring to the fact he was

also seen at the United Church Women’s Tea and Bake sale on the Feb. 11.

A raffle was also held on Shrove Tuesday for a Pancake Cookie Jar, which was won by Wayne Lomanda of Kamsack.

The proceeds of the event go towards the Lodge’s Masonic Works Project, a fund which the masons use to benefit the community through donations.

Rick Aikman, the Masons’ Worshipful Master, said, “We had a very good turnout and we’re happy to have another Shrove Tuesday since COVID-19. Thanks for everyone coming out.”

Rod Gardner, sporting a masons ʼ hat and apron, was seen on Shrove Tuesday happily flipping pancakes at the masonic lodge.

All are invited to join World Day of Prayer this weekend

The invitation is out for everyone – men, women, and children of all ages – to join the 2023 World Day of Prayer as we celebrate the theme “I have heard about your faith” based on

Ephesians 1: 15-19, stated a press release from World Day of Prayer.

World Day of Prayer is held on the first Friday of each March, which is March 3 this year.

The women of Taiwan have prepared the service this year. All are encouraged to reflect on the changes and challenges faced by this country as the citizens evolve amidst struggles for

Most popular baby names in Saskatchewan for 2022

A list of the top 20 baby names for 2022 has been released by eHealth Saskatchewan. In 2022

Olivia was the most popular name for baby girls for the eighth year in a row. The second most popular girl name was Amelia, marking a dramatic comeback from eighth place in 2021. Noah was the most popular name for baby boys for the second year in a row year, just edging out long-time favourite Liam.

As of data published February 13, 2023, there were 60 baby girls named Olivia, followed by Amelia, Emma, Ava, Lily and Sophia. There were 58 baby boys named Noah in 2022, followed by Liam,

Leo and then tied in the next two spots are Jack and Lucas, and Benjamin and Theodore.

Some new names made the top 20 list. Mia is back on the girls’ list, this time at number 15 - only debuting on the top 20 list once before in the last 10 years, back in 2013. Walker is at number 12 and Beau is at number 16 on the list of boy names.

The girls’ list saw some drop-offs from 2021. Baby girl names that did not carry over to the 2022 top 20 list were Harper, Aria, Avery and Nova. More than one-third of the most popular baby boy names from 2021 didn’t reappear on the 2022 top 20 list:

Grayson, Jackson, Henry, Brooks, Bennett, Emmett and Rhett.

There were 12,802 live births registered in Saskatchewan as of February 13, 2023. The final count is anticipated to be completed in March. The number of live births registered in 2021 was 14,559. This does not include Saskatchewan mothers who gave birth outside of the province.

*Please note that these are preliminary lists created with live birth data up to February 13, 2023. eHealth is still completing the birth registrations from the remainder of December 2022. The final lists are anticipated to be completed in March.

Saskatchewan sees jump in wholesale trade and manufacturing sales

Saskatchewan’s economy remains strong, with Statistics Canada reporting the value of wholesale trade increasing in our province by 24.1 per cent in December 2022 compared to December 2021, the highest increase among provinces. The value of Saskatchewan’s wholesale trade also led the provinces on a month-overmonth basis, increasing 4.3 per cent compared to November 2022.

Saskatchewan’s manufacturing sales were also up in December, rising 25.5 per cent from 2021 to 2022, ranking Saskatchewan second among provinces.

“Saskatchewan continues to lead the nation

in several of the country’s key economic indicators, and today’s strong numbers in wholesale trade and manufacturing sales are further proof that Saskatchewan has what the world needs,” Trade and Export Development Minster Jeremy Harrison said in a release. “Our government remains committed to attracting investment, increasing the value of our exports and expanding our international markets to ensure this growth continues.”

The total value of wholesale trade was $4 billion, while the total value of manufacturing sales was $2.3 billion. In recent months,

Saskatchewan has seen growth in a number of key economic indicators, including the provincial job market. Recently released January labour force figures from Statistics Canada show Saskatchewan with 16,400 new jobs when compared to January 2022, an increase of 2.9 per cent.

Saskatchewan posted a record year for merchandise exports in 2022, increasing 41.7 per cent compared to 2021.

Investment in building construction and building permits also saw impressive growth in December 2022 compared to 2021, with increases of 16.4 per cent and 26.1 per cent, respectively.

independence internationally as well as the obstacles that women, in particular, face at home. Regardless of changes, women in Taiwan remain somewhat oppressed and encounter many challenges in gender equality, both politically and in the labour market.

World Day of Prayer is an international, interchurch event that began around 100 years ago bridging social, geographic, and political barriers in over 170 countries. Together we pursue justice, peace, and reconciliation by standing together in prayer and action, said

the release.

Preparation for the day is vast. An international committee is based in New York and there are national committees and organizations in each participating country.

In Canada, the World Day of Prayer (WDP) is co-ordinated by the Women’s InterChurch Council of Canada (WICC), one of the original founders of this prayer movement.

Offerings received through the World Day of Prayer transform prayers into action in the form of project grants empowering women and children in our own country and throughout the world. All

regions share in the grants, with consideration given to greatest need. Through WDP offerings, WICC has distributed around $3 million for small projects in the past 40 years. The vision is to restore hope to women and children touched by injustice. The Women’s InterChurch Council of Canada (WICC) invites everyone to join a service. These may take place via Zoom or in person. As well, individuals and families are welcome to watch a 55-minute WDP service video prepared by WICC that features participants from across Canada. This video is available on wicc.org.

Vintage snowmobile race held at Carnduff

BY GORD PAULLEY, Freelance Reporter Carlyle Observer

CARNDUFF - Nineteen enthusiastic snowmobilers participated in the annual Old Cruisers Snowmobile Club race near Carnduff on Feb. 4.

The event attracted riders from all over southeast Saskatchewan and even North Dakota.

This was the 11th snowmobile race but it hadn’t taken place since 2017 due to warm weather and pandemic restrictions. There were two conditions to the snow machines being entered. The sleds had to be built prior to 1973 and all had to have a single cylinder.

Jigger Kerr of Carnduff was the event organizer.

He oversaw grooming the three-mile track, obtaining donations and prizes, and arranging the post-race supper.

Despite only having a single cylinder, these snowmobiles can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres an hour. Brand name sleds that participated included Arctic Cat, Polaris, Snow Jet and Roloflex. Kerr himself raced a Yamaha but couldn’t compete due to carburettor issues.

The warm weather may have contributed to a few sleds being unable to complete the race.

Kerr was extremely pleased with the turnout and the track.

“It was a wonderful day,” he said. “Most of us who competed know

each other well and it isn’t just about winning. We like our sledding and the camaraderie it brings.”

There are several

other vintage snowmobile rallies planned for the coming weeks. In late January, there was an event held in Stoughton. Later this winter, other

races are planned for Saltcoats and Letellier, Man. The Saskatchewan Vintage Snowmobilers Association (SVSA) also has their own Facebook page.

Pat Haddow of Carlyle was the winner of this year’s HD class event.

Ryan Iverson of Grand Forks, N.D. won the HR Class. The race was approximately 160 kilometres in length and took around three hours to complete.

“A big shout out to the local farmers that supplied the equipment to help prepare the track. Also, we had several local sponsors that really helped with the prizes. Everyone enjoyed the great pork supper at the Royal Canadian Legion

in Carnduff after the race. I was very happy to be able to organize this event again after a sixyear absence,” said Kerr.

Richard Van Sprundel farms south of Manor and also competed. Early on, his Polaris snowmobile developed an electrical issue, and he was only able to complete a third of the race.

“We had great weather and all of us enjoyed the event. The track near Carnduff is smooth, wide, and fast. I thoroughly recommend it for even the newer riders. We appreciated the prizes and the great supper put on by the Carnduff Legion. And a huge thank-you to Jigger for all you do. We will be back next year.”

Lack of vehicles and infrastructure hampers efforts to transition federal fleet to electric vehicles

BY NATASHA BULOWSKI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, National Observer

Canadians wanting to buy an electric vehicle aren’t the only ones facing delays.

A lack of vehicle availability and charging infrastructure is slowing down the federal government’s efforts to transition its fleet to electric vehicles, according to a memo to the deputy minister of natural resources that Canada’s National Observer obtained through a federal access-to-information request.

The federal government is aiming for its light-duty vehicle fleet to be comprised entirely of zero-emission or hybrid vehicles by 2030. These vehicles are used

for a wide range of purposes across all federal departments, like mail delivery or transporting equipment and employees for work duties (for example, to meetings and conferences).

The federal government defines zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) as those that can operate without producing tailpipe emissions and include battery, plugin hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.

Currently, there are limited ZEV options for the larger vehicles that make up the majority of the federal government’s light-duty conventional fleet, such as vans, pickup trucks and large SUVs, according to an emailed statement from Public Services and Procurement Canada, the Treasury Board of Canada

Secretariat and Natural Resources Canada.

“Supplies are limited due to ongoing global supply chain issues,” the statement to the National Observer reads. “ZEV purchases will increase rapidly as more suitable options become available in the market over the next one to three years.”

As of March 31, 2022, the federal government’s approximately 17,200-vehicle conventional lightduty fleet was made up of roughly three per cent plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, 0.5 per cent battery electric vehicles and more than seven per cent hybrid electric vehicles, the statement said.

“Most ZEVs currently have lead times in the range of six to nine months, with some exceptions beyond nine months

due to industry supply issues,” it explained. “We expect a return to more conventional lead times [around four months] as industry resolves supply constraints.”

A March 2022 study commissioned by Transport Canada surveyed dealerships across the country and found 82 per cent had no ZEVs available at all and 38 per cent of those dealers reported wait times of six months or more.

From April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022, just over 72 per cent of new unmodified vehicles purchased by the federal government were hybrid electric and zero-emission vehicles. This fell just short of the 75 per cent federal goal that existed at that time.

The federal government

has since upped the ambition. In March 2022, the Greening Government Strategy was updated for new purchase targets to apply to all conventional fleet purchases – not just unmodified vehicles – and increased the previous ZEV goal from 80 to 100 per cent by 2030.

Despite the challenges outlined in the memo, the Treasury Board Secretariat “does not anticipate that current delays will impact achieving the 2030 target” based on a market analysis of ZEV availability by Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors.

To address vehicle availability and charging infrastructure barriers, the 2030 ZEV Pathway Initiative was launched in January 2022 to identify challenges, opportunities,

costs and options for achieving the 2030 goal, according to the memo. This initiative will complete its work this spring.

Natural Resources Canada is heading up efforts to transition vehicle fleets and helping other departments plan to adopt zero-emission and low-carbon vehicles. Budget 2022 provided an additional $2.2 million over five years for the department to continue work to transition the federal fleets. According to the September 2022 memo, Natural Resources Canada’s 212-vehicle fleet included nine ZEVs and eight hybrid electric vehicles. At that time, almost 1,200 vehicles that could be replaced with ZEV alternatives were identified across 17 departments.

Inflation causing cutbacks in health-related spending

TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks), has released its monthly Mental Health Index revealing key insights on how inflation, financial pressure and inability to control emotions are impacting the mental health of workers in Canada. Notably, the Index found that 20 per cent of those surveyed have reduced spending on health-related expenses, such as prescription medication. Further, 19 per cent claimed financial pressure as the reason for a decline in relationships.

The Index found that workers in Canada are experiencing increasing strain with an unfavourable mental health score.

The Mental Health Index score for January 2023 is 64.8 points out of

100, a slight increase from December 2022.

Inflation and financial pressures are impacting the personal relationships of workers and their ability to seek health care.

Seven per cent of workers in Canada have cut back on prescription medications due to inflation. This group has a mental health score more than 18 points below the national average.

Parents are 70 per cent more likely than nonparents to cut back on expenses related to their health.

Individuals without emergency savings are more than twice as likely as those with emergency savings to cut back on health-related expenses.

Nineteen per cent of working people cite

financial pressure as the reason for their marital/partner relationship decline.

Individuals with an annual household income lower than $100,000 are nearly 80 per cent more likely than those with a greater household income to report financial pressure as the reason for their marital/partner relationship decline.

Thirty-two per cent of workers avoid being with or interacting with others, and 62 per cent say their avoidance started or worsened since the pandemic began. This group has a mental health score more than 13 points below the national average.

Workers under 40 are 70 per cent more likely than those over 50 to avoid being with or

interacting with others and are more than twice as likely to have difficulty controlling their emotions.

Twenty-one per cent of workers in Canada have difficulty controlling their emotions, and 64 per cent said this started or worsened since the pandemic began.

Parents are 50 per cent more likely than nonparents to have difficulty controlling their emotions.

“The current economic environment is leading many employees to feel pressure to prioritize finances over their health and wellbeing,” said TELUS Health Chief Operating Officer Michael Dingle. “This is an impossible choice as one is not mutually exclusive from

the other – in fact, financial wellbeing is a fundamental contributor to overall health. Employers play a critical role in supporting the wellbeing of their employees, and can do so successfully by offering comprehensive Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that include health benefits and financial counselling.”

“Our data shows that we continue to be under strain,” said TELUS Health Global Leader, Research and Total Wellbeing, Paula Allen. “A major concern is that the same strain often increases the behaviours that isolate us. The isolation then makes our stress worse. This is a cycle that can significantly worsen mental health. The best thing is to address the source

of the strain and/or look carefully at how you respond. Counselling can help you see things more objectively, and leverage problem solving and stress management skills that you might already have, but have forgotten during stress. EAPs offer voluntary confidential support for a wide range of issues and can help prevent a negative cycle.”

The full TELUS Health Canadian Mental Health Index report can be found here. This month, the report includes additional insights on remote work, wellbeing of children, and more.

LifeWorks is a wholly owned subsidiary of TELUS now operating as part of TELUS Health as a result of its recent acquisition.

Jigger Kerr was among the entrants for the rally.

-Photo courtesy of Jigger Kerr

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

HALE- Margaretpassed awayinherhomeon January25,2023,in Calgary.Shewas78.

Shegrewupwithherfamily inKamsack,butlivedmost ofherlifeinCalgary.

Shealwayshadfond memoriesofKamsack.

PELECHATY, Mervin (Merv)

Dennis Born October 2, 1951 - February 20, 2023 aged 71 years. Mervin was born in Canora, SK. On October 2, 1951 to parents Steve and Katherine (nee Dereworiz) Pelechaty. He grew up on the family farm and attended St. Bascilian School until grade 8 and then attended high school at Kamsack Collegiate. After high school, Mervin attended Business College in Regina, SK. Then worked in Geraldton, Ont. He later moved to Benito, MB., and was employed with the TD Bank. In 1975, when Mervin’s dad passed away he moved home to pursue and maintain the family farm. In 1977, he met the love of his life, Debbie (Zaharychuk) at a Knights of Columbus turkey shoot. On July 15, 1978 he married Debbie in Benito, MB. In 1979, they were blessed with their first child Melanie, and in 1980 their second child, Greg was born. In 1984, Merv started an accounting business known today as D & M Accounting and has remained in business until 2023. Merv was a member of the Father Siry - Knights of Columbus as well, as a member of the St. Josaphat’s Parish Council. In his spare time Merv enjoyed crop checking, cheering on the Saskatchewan Roughriders, going for drives in the country and visiting with his neighbours. Most of all his greatest highlights were his two children and his granddaughter. Merv rarely took a vacation, as he was dedicated to the farm life, however in the summer of 2022, a family reunion to Saskatoon, SK., occurred which Merv expressed was enjoyable. He was a very hard worker, both on the farm and with his business. He spent many long hours in his office at tax time and was very dedicated to his clients. Merv’s memory will be cherished by his wife of 44 years, Debbie, his daughter Melanie (Trent), son Greg (Sarah) and granddaughter Sydney Marie, sister-in-law’s Carol (Neil) Patterson, Syliva Gurke and Cathy Zaharychuk along with many nieces, nephews and cousins, his best friend Norm Graham (Karry-Ann), his dog Piper and Walter his cat. Prayer service was held on February 26, 2023 with Divine Liturgy following on February 27, 2023 both held at St. Josaphats Ukrainian Catholic Church, Kamsack, SK., with Rev. Father Rac officiating. Interment followed at Riverview Cemetery, Kamsack, SK. Donation in memory of Mervin made to St. Josaphat’s Ukrainian Catholic Parish (Box 27, Runnymede, SK., S0A 3P0). To leave a note of condolence for the family please visit wolkowski.ca

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Kinsmen Foundation pledges $1 million plus for new health care equipment

The Kinsmen Foundation, Saskatchewan’s Charity, has announced a pledge of $1 million-plus to invest in new health care equipment for the people of Saskatchewan. This pledge is possible due to the record-breaking total of more than $8 million raised at TeleMiracle 46 in 2022.

“Saskatchewan people are known for their generosity and last year, they came together to set an all-time TeleMiracle record,” said Kinsmen Foundation Chair Rob Bateman in a release.

valued health partner and we are so appreciative of the generous support of their many donors, the people of Saskatchewan.”

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“The impact of these donations means that the Kinsmen Foundation can make a special investment in new health care equipment across the province.”

Saskatchewan-based health care foundations and facilities can submit their application to the Kinsmen Foundation until June 7. All requests of $50,000 or more will be reviewed at the Foundation’s June 24 Board of Directors meeting. Funded recipients will be notified and announced publicly the following week. An online application form and information about eligibility can be found at www. telemiracle.com.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FORTPELLY-LIVINGSTONE MUSEUMwouldliketothank FarmCreditCorporationfora $10,000AgriSpiritFundGrant towardsthepurchaseand installationoftwonewenergyefficientfurnaces.

COMING EVENTS

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Saturday,March18from1:304:00pmatthePellyHappyHearts.

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PRAYER CORNER

SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian

Catholic Church schedule:Sat.

March 4 Preeceville 5 p.m. Sun.

March 5 Kamsack 9 a.m. Canora 11 a.m. Norquay 1:15 p.m. Tues

March 7 Canora 5 p.m. Wed.

March 8 Kamsack 5 p.m.

St. Stephen’s Kamsack and St.

Philip’s Church Schedule: Sun

March 5 Kamsack 9 a.m. and St.Philips 1 p.m.

FOR SALE - MISC

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

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“At TeleMiracle, we ask Saskatchewan residents to make a pledge to help their friends, neighbours and communities,” Bateman continued. We are excited to make a pledge back to the people of Saskatchewan that will improve health care in the province.”

“The partnership between philanthropy and health care means that we can do more to support innovation and the advancement of health system priorities,” said Arlene Wiks, Chairperson of Saskatchewan Health Authority Board of Directors. “We are grateful to have the Kinsmen Foundation as a

“Providing help to individuals and families who need mobility equipment, or medical travel assistance, remains our first priority – and that funding will continue to be there for the people that need it,” declared Bateman.

“The Kinsmen Foundation has always provided funding to health care facilities and foundations for new and innovative medical equipment, or equipment that improves access to health care around the province.”

A recent example of this type of funding was provided to the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation in Saskatoon for their da Vinci surgical robot. “The da Vinci Surgical Robot is an innovative technology that is already having a significant impact on our community,” said Lecina Hicke, SPH Foundation CEO, “and a phenomenal example of what we can achieve with the dedicated support of community leaders like the Kinsmen Foundation.”

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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“TeleMiracle is rooted in Saskatchewan and has been bringing the province together for 46 years and counting,” said Scott Lamb, Chair of TeleMiracle 47. “It shows what is possible when folks rally around TeleMiracle in a big way,” TeleMiracle is entering its 47th year in 2023.

Through the proceeds of this annual telethon, the Kinsmen Foundation is Helping People Every Day in Saskatchewan, to improve their independence and quality of life. The Foundation provides specialized mobility and medical equipment to people and organizations throughout the province, as well as travel assistance for residents in need of vital medical treatment outside their home community.

Throwback Thursday: From the Kamsack Times files

(EDITOR’S NOTE: These items were printed in the 1985 issues of the Kamsack Times.)

Five persons, including Chris Vereschagin, above, worked for 22 weeks constructing additional buildings at the National Doukhobor Heritage Village at Verigin. In addition to the prayer home and the Tolstoi museum, pictured above, the village had an old barn, bake shop and a bathhouse constructed, all representative of the Doukhobor culture.

NOTICE

The Tax Enforcement Act DAVID ROBERT CATCHER

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Kamsack intends to be registered as owner under the above Act of the land described as LOT 18-BLK/PAR 15-PLAN BY4629 EXT 0, Title No. 153043499.

The municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the tax lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 179507931 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a certificate of title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.

The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the municipality. For any questions about the tax enforcement process please contact Taxervice at 1-877-734-3113.

Dated this 2nd day of March, 2023.

Aimee Kerluke, Treasurer Town of Kamsack

In recognition of 1985 as the United Nations International Year of Youth, the Kamsack art gallery opened featuring a collection of artwork created by Kamsack school students. At the gallery, Norma Stimpson, president of the Kamsack Arts Council, admired a toy truck made of wood.

Kamsack figure skaters, who attended the Jean Norman open free skate and dance competitions at Battleford were: Treny Sasyniuk, Danielle Barnett and Trixy Sasyniuk.

Members of the Kamsack Lions Club held an annual sale of chocolate Easter bunnies at Kamsack. Helping Joe Paylor, Lion president, publicize the sale were Jennifer and Jason Schwartz.

The twelve members of the Kamsack Dance and Multicultural Association, who took ballet examinations at Melville, were spending time perfecting their routines. Tested, from left, were: Trixy Sasyniuk, Erica Taker, Phoebe and Anna Dey, Coral Kostick and Cindy Duckworth.

During an open house held at the Assiniboine School at Kamsack in recognition of Education Week, students demonstrated their skills on computers. With the equipment were: Carla Panchuk, Leslie Bobyk and Conrad Brock.

Among the area residents participating in the Parkland Music Festival, which got underway at Canora, were Nissa Chernoff and Lisa Walters of Kamsack. They posed for a photo with Thomas Day, an adjudicator from Saskatoon.

AUCTIONEERS

CONTRACTORS

CONTRACTORS

Todd Bobyk

Vigil observes one-year anniversary of Ukraine invasion

Joining communities all across Canada, on Feb. 24, a candlelight vigil was held at the Ukrainian Heritage Museum in Canora to mark one year since the Russians attacked Ukraine.

Approximately 30 Canora and area residents were in attendance.

Dorothy Korol, organizer, said she was pleased with the turnout, “especially on such a cold winter’s day.”

Audrey Hrycak opened the program.

“On behalf of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Canora, we welcome you and thank you for joining us in recognizing the one-year sustained invasion of Ukraine.”

The group joined in the singing of Ukraine’s National Anthem.

All in attendance were invited to light a candle as part of the vigil.

A prayer for Ukraine

The Prayer for Ukraine was spoken in Ukrainian by Zennovia Duch, who then led the group in English.

“O Lord our God, You are the Only God in heaven and on earth, You have dominion over all kingdoms and nations. Strength and power are in Your hands, and no one can resist You. You rest upon the cherubim and the seraphim and we constantly praise You, so what can man do against you?

“Incline Your ear, O Lord, and hear; behold with Your eyes the evil intentions of our enemies. We believe that You alone are merciful and strong, and that You can deliver us from their hands. You saved Your servant David from the hand of the strong, showing, once again, that Your strength is in the weak, and accepted the sorrow of Hezekiah’s heart, granting him more years of life.

“Give peace and tranquility to our God-loving people, and recompense us not for our sins. For we remember the words of our Savior, Your Only Begotten Son, and our Lord Jesus Christ: ‘All who take the sword, shall perish by the sword.’

“Therefore, we do not rely on our weapons, but only on You, knowing Your power. You work miracles, from You comes victory and defeat. Grant our Ukraine a deep and inviolable peace, protecting her from war and invasion of enemies, and giving her all that is good for the benefit of soul and body. For You are the God of mercy, the King of Peace and the Savior of our souls, and we offer unto You glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.”

After a moment of silence to reflect on the impact of the past year of war in Ukraine, there was group singing. Songs included Memory Eternal and In the Meadows Displaced Ukrainians welcomed: mayor Mayor Mike Kwas addressed the gathering on behalf of the Town of Canora.

“We would like to send out our deepest condolences to the families of Ukraine that have lost loved ones, that still have family back in Ukraine and to the family and friends that are battling this unjustifiable war. It is good to see so many gathered here in the embrace of community, unfortunately I wish we were all gathered under much different circumstances.”

Kwas said this war has been a life-transforming event for so many people.

“It’s hard to believe that we are all standing here today because of something that has become such a senseless and meaningless war. This war has been going on for a year already, which is such a shame for the innocent people that have had to endure this pointless war. To think that in this day and age, the person who started this has chosen violence over peace. A year ago, to the day, when I heard about the invasion of Ukraine my heart sank, I could not believe that this could happen.

“I thought of all the innocent people that would be affected and how their lives would be forever changed. There is definite admiration for all the courageous men and women that have been caught up in the middle of this war. They have had to have the courage to fight, the courage to stand up, and the courage to leave to live a more peaceful life.

“We as the Town of Canora are more than

happy to welcome the displaced citizens of Ukraine into our community and hope that we can make their stay here a positive and inviting one. I would like to thank Terry Dennis, our MLA, for all of his hard work and positive attitude in helping to bring the citizens of Ukraine to our community. Thank you to all the volunteers for all their help in getting the families settled and to all the people that have made donations.

“When this senseless war is over, I hope that each family can take home a little piece of Canora with them.

“As we honour our grief, let’s remember to give thanks for the lives of our loved ones and may the light guide us forward toward healing in peace. Thank you.”

Committed to helping Ukrainians: MLA

Canora-Pelly MLA Terry Dennis, Legislative Secretary responsible for Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations, also found it hard to believe that “today marks the one-year anniversary since Putin’s senseless attack on Ukraine. Today, we gather to pray and honour those who have died and those who continue to battle for the freedom of Ukraine and its people, and a victorious end to this war!

“Vladimir Zelensky and the resilient people of Ukraine have bravely battled Russia, surprising them as they continue to battle,” added Dennis. “The pride and bravery of the people of Ukraine will continue and they will win this battle against mad man Putin and the Russian army.

“Over 100 years ago Ukrainians moved to Canada, including many of our grandparents and families, and settled into Saskatchewan. They built this place and made a better place for us to live and call home. We now have over 140,000 people of Ukrainian descent living in Saskatchewan today, about 13 per cent of our population.

“The Saskatchewan Government has committed to sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine and will continue to do so. We have a Memorandum of Understanding agreement with Open Arms Air and have landed four planes of Ukrainian families from Warsaw, Poland with a fifth planned for the end of March or early April. We are also looking to secure more flights to Saskatchewan.

“Our government is committed to helping as many displaced Ukrainians to Saskatchewan that want to come and start a new life. We have one of the best welcoming packages in Saskatchewan, helping them with social insurance numbers, health cards, driver’s licenses, applications for federal and provincial funding, housing, jobs and much more. Over the last year, we have welcomed over 3,500

displaced Ukrainians into our province. Our government and the people of Saskatchewan have done a great job on welcoming these families.

“We will continue to welcome all the displaced Ukrainians needed until this senseless war on Ukraine ends.

“Thank you to the Government of Saskatchewan, the UCC of Canada, the UCC of Saskatchewan, the various Ukrainian groups and volunteers, and to all of the people of Saskatchewan for opening their hearts and their homes to all of the displaced Ukrainians during this time of uncertainty. Slava Ukraine!”

Dorothy Korol closed the vigil by expressing gratitude for the support shown by everyone in attendance, and for those who participated in the program.

All those in attendance at the candlelight vigil at the Ukrainian Heritage Museum to show support for Ukraine on the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion gathered for a group photo.

Canora Mayor Michael Kwas emphasized the support of the Town of Canora for all those still in the Ukraine, as well as their families and friends, who have been impacted by “this unjustifiable war.”

Canora-Pelly MLA Terry Dennis, who is the Legislative Secretary responsible for Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations, praised “the pride and bravery of the people of Ukraine.”

At the candlelight vigil to mark the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, approximately 30 local residents in attendance held their burning candles and took a moment to reflect on the significance of the past year.