Kamsack Times 2023-05-25

Tımes Kamsack

Legion holds AGM, is looking forward to future, 7

Local funeral home helps donate books to Family Resource Centre

To address the needs of families grappling with loss, Wolkowski Funeral Home has stepped forward to sponsor a collection of books aimed at assisting children in understanding and coping with death and grief. The initiative, coordinated by the Family Resource Center in collaboration with the funeral home, aims to provide valuable resources to parents and family members seeking support in discussing these sensitive topics with children.

Under the guidance of Andrea Verigin, an eightyear veteran at the Family Resource Center, the project took shape with the support of Robyn Tataryn, a funeral

director and embalmer from Wolkowski Funeral Home.

The collaboration led to the procurement of a collection of books that are now available at the Family Resource Center, serving as a valuable toolkit for families and their children in need.

The books were carefully selected with input from Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbors (SIGN) counselors, Terry Greene, Carmen Pierce, and KCI school counselor Miranda Reilkoff-Leis. The books specialize in grief counseling, covering a range of topics related to death. They are designed to help children express their emotions and understand the complexities

of grief through relatable stories and illustrations. The hope is that these resources will provide comfort and support to children experiencing loss, whether it is the passing of a loved one or a beloved family pet. Verigin said, “We have heard from families in the last little bit speaking about their children, and that they have experienced loss and grief, that could be from a family pet, or that could be from a loved one in their family. So we listened and we took some action, and through funding through Wolkowski funeral home they were able to sponsor some books to have.”

Robyn Tataryn, the

L.F.D.E. (Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer), from Wolkowski Funeral Home, emphasized the importance of community development and the need to raise awareness about the resources available at the Family Resource Center.

Tataryn, with 21 years of experience in the field, believes that the center can serve as a vital starting point for families in the community affected by loss and grief. Verigin said, “So we’re hoping that families can come and they can view the resources. And there is a counselor in our building on Wednesdays so they can access that as well.”

The Family Resource

Center, funded by the local health authority and operating under the administration of the SIGN, provides a range of services beyond the book collection. With over 100 registered families, the center offers support to parents and family members of all ages, including counseling services, programming camps, rapid access counseling, and craft programs. The Family Resource Center’s hours extend beyond just school hours, they will be open even during school summer holidays. Verigin expressed gratitude for the funding provided by the funeral home and invited other community organizations and

individuals to consider making donations to expand the library’s collection. The ultimate goal is to ensure that families in need have access to a wide variety of resources that can help facilitate conversations about loss, death, and grief.

Looking ahead, the Family Resource Center plans to introduce summer programming for the community, catering to families with children aged zero to five years old and prenatal families. By providing a supportive environment and valuable resources, the center aims to promote healing and foster healthy discussions surrounding loss and grief within the community.

Office: 306-542-2450

The Family Resource Centre, thanks to the help of Wolkowski Funeral Home, was able to procure a collection of books to help children grasp topics relating to death, loss or grief, thanks to the work of, left to right: Stacy Hilton, Megan Holodiniuk, and Andrea Verigin of the Family Resource Centre, and Robyn Tataryn, L.F.D.E. (Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer) from Wolkowski Funeral Home.

New equipment lending program launched with survey

In an effort to promote physical activity and provide access to recreational equipment, the Town of Kamsack has introduced a new equipment lending program. The program, which started on May 15, allows individuals in the area to borrow various sports and recreational equipment from the public library. For a refundable cash deposit of $10 and a completed lending agreement, residents can enjoy activities such as Frisbee golf, skateboarding, and more.

Recreation Director Ben Sipple said, “So we’ve got elbow pads, knee pads,

and helmets. We’ve got some green athletic shirts and some sports bibs in case if there’s a team playing and then we’ve got a skate park. We’ve got like six skateboards, for kids or adults, anybody can run them. We’ve got some Trump screws on there for people to accommodate how they like to ride. Then we’ve got some sporting equipment like footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, things like badminton rackets and shuttlecocks. And then we’ve got Frisbee disc gulfs, and then a Spikeball kit.”

Excitement surrounds the program as the Town

of Kamsack has received a grant from Saskatchewan Lotteries and the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association to conduct a community survey. The survey will help gather valuable feedback and suggestions from residents, visitors, and other stakeholders regarding the program’s effectiveness and the types of equipment needed. The input received will inform future equipment purchases and program expansion.

Sipple said, “Once we get all those surveys back, we get to actually purchase more equipment, so that may be rolled into the

equipment lending program. That may be rolled into here at the rink, the pool where I’m not sure yet, because I really want to leave this open to community input. So far, it’s going really well. But yeah, I keep trying to encourage everybody that I can to fill out that survey. The survey is right here, same place on the website. So yeah, we’re asking everybody, visitors, anybody who comes to the area, please fill it out. Let us know what you think. Because that’s our goal this year is trying to get more people more active more often.”

While the program

is currently in its initial phase with a limited supply of equipment, the positive response and the survey results will guide the acquisition of more equipment. The goal is to offer a broader range of activities, possibly including winter sports like snowshoeing, ice skating, and skiing, depending on the results of the survey.

The community’s enthusiasm for the program is evident, with over 20 surveys already returned since its launch on May 15. Sipple is grateful for the early response and is keen to spread awareness further, urging people to take

advantage of the lending program and contribute to the survey.

In addition to the equipment lending program, the Town of Kamsack has other exciting developments on the horizon. A town-wide garage sale is scheduled for May 27, providing an opportunity for residents to engage in communal activities. Furthermore, preparations are underway to hire and train pool staff in anticipation of opening the pool in June, although the nationwide shortage of lifeguard certifications poses challenges for many communities.

Premier outlines plans for affordable, reliable power production

Premier Scott Moe has released Saskatchewan’s plan for electricity generation to 2035 and beyond.

“The federal government’s standards for zero emissions electrical generation by 2035 are unrealistic and unaffordable,” Moe said in a release. “They mean SaskPower rates would more than double and we may not have enough generation to keep the lights on.

SaskPower is committed to achieving net-zero by 2050. As work continues toward that goal, the province will maintain an energy mix that ensures reliable base load power and affordable rates for customers.

In order to keep rates affordable, existing assets including natural gas plants, will be used until end of

life. Saskatchewan will continue working toward small modular reactors and will continue expanding intermittent power sources, such as wind and solar.

Saskatchewan industries are world leaders in environmental sustainability and the province’s plan will ensure those industries also can remain competitive.

“We support the

Province of Saskatchewan’s plan to keep the power grid in the province affordable and sustainable,” Drake Meats President and CEO Kelly Ediger said. “Reliable and affordable power is crucial for our company and we want to see those being priorities for any plans going forward.”

“Access to a reliable and affordable supply of electricity is vital to the energy sector in all its forms,”

Whitecap Resources Inc.

President and CEO Grant Fagerheim said. “The plan being put forward today is practical and realistic and will help Saskatchewan remain a competitive place to do business well into the future.”

“Even though I recognize the importance of reducing carbon emissions, I also believe the accelerated timelines and additional burden of exponential

increases in our electrical cost versus our competitors will force our customers to choose food products made in other, more competitive environments, creating a loss of the 300 employees we have in Yorkton and a family business that we’ve spent 95 years building,” Harvest Meats President Kenn Propp said. “Maybe we’re just collateral damage when pursuing a singular solution.”

NCC receives $100,000 in honour of coronation of King Charles III

SASKTODAY.CA

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is being entrusted with the responsibility of delivering a gift of nature on behalf of the Canadian people to mark the coronation of King Charles III.

NCC has been chosen to receive a $100,000 donation from the Government of Canada which will conserve natural habitat across the country. It will be used to achieve conservation of nature here at home and to

support the next generation of conservation leaders – the organization’s interns. These young professionals deliver tangible, on-the-ground impact for the sake of nature and people, according to NCC.

NCC President and CEO Catherine Grenier said she cannot think of a better way to mark the coronation. The king’s well-known love for nature and commitment to the environment is aligned with Canada’s pledge to conserve 30 per cent of

land and water by 2030. Conservation in Canada has global significance and Grenier hopes that news of this gift will inspire many more people to join in efforts to halt and reverse the

loss of nature, reports NCC.

“The king has long used his voice on the global stage to stress the urgency of a unified effort against the threats of climate change and biodiversity loss,” said

Grenier.

“There is no solution to either challenge without nature conservation. This gift is a vote of confidence in NCC’s ability and determination to drive sizeable

and permanent results for nature In Canada, and to prepare our young professionals to lead us all to a nature-positive future.”

To learn more, visit natureconservancy.ca.

Beck hammers Sask. Party on Saskatoon Public Schools letter

REGINA - Official Opposition Leader Carla Beck and Education Critic Matt Love grilled Premier Scott Moe over his government’s decision to reduce education funding despite

looming cuts in the classroom and massive resource revenues in the provincial coffers.

“Scott Moe is sitting atop a mountain of oil and potash money while students across Saskatchewan don’t

even have desks to sit at,” said Beck in an NDP release.

“Our kids are literally being forced to stand on their feet or sit in the hallway because this government has cut funding to the bone. Moe’s government is completely out-of-touch if they think this is acceptable.”

Saskatoon Public Schools sent a letter to parents telling them to brace for further cuts as a result of decreased funding from the provincial government. The division says that perstudent funding dropped from $10,036 in 2022-23 to $9,896 in 2023-24.

Funding decreases have

already forced the division to introduce lunchroom fees and, over the last five years, to cut over 80 positions, including school support staff and English as an additional language teachers.

“As a parent and a former teacher, it makes me absolutely sick to see our schools run into the ground by Scott Moe’s tired and out-of-touch Sask. Party government,” said Love. “Scott Moe needs to stop ignoring the concerns of parents, educators and school boards. He needs to deliver the support our kids deserve.”

“I’m not going to let that happen.”

Eaglestone Lodge hosts Annual General Meeting

Eaglestone Lodge recently held its AGM to address various matters related to the organization’s financials, reports, and recent achievements. The meeting, which took place on May 15, brought together members, representatives, board members and a resident of Eaglestone Lodge to discuss important agenda items.

The meeting commenced with the adoption of the agenda, allowing attendees to suggest any necessary additions. The motion to adopt the agenda was successfully passed, enabling the meeting to proceed. The minutes from the 2022 AGM, prepared by former Secretary Doug Elsasser were acknowledged and made available to interested parties.

Karen Bodnaryk, the bookkeeper, shared that the lodge generated $619,754.60 in revenue during the previous year. She also provided an overview of the number of residents and rented suites throughout the year. Despite facing challenges, the lodge demonstrated resilience, with revenue surpassing $615,000 as of May 1, 2023.

Tricia Sheptak, the administrative manager, delivered the lodge management and administration report.

She expressed gratitude towards Bodnaryk for her guidance during the transition process and remained optimistic about overcoming the challenges faced. The lodge currently accommodates 30 full-care residents and employs a dedicated staff of 20.

The meeting also acknowledged the lodge’s marketing efforts, particularly on social networking platforms like Facebook. The lodge has been using these platforms to showcase the activities and events organized for the residents, garnering positive attention and engagement from both families and the wider community.

Former secretary and marketing director Elsasser highlighted successful marketing initiatives undertaken in the past two years. These initiatives included the creation and distribution of a newsletter, print advertisements featuring photography of the staff and residents, and a video highlighting the facilities and services offered. Elsasser also mentioned grants received to improve the lodge’s infrastructure, such as the renovation of the kitchen and upgrades to bathing facilities.

Colleen Pennell and Kendra Kerr presented the maintenance and

building report, emphasizing the lodge’s adaptability during the pandemic. The report mentioned upcoming projects, including sidewalk renovations, entrance improvements, and the installation of walk-in tubs, and barrier free shower

Attendees expressed satisfaction with the positive changes that have taken place within the facility. The acquisition of new tables and dining room chairs was particularly praised, as it provided residents with a more comfortable and uniform seating arrangement. These items were funded by an anonymous local community member and obtained through an auction adding to the lodge’s appealing and inviting atmosphere.

Fundraising efforts

were also recognized, with Diane Smutt leading successful cash raffles that complied with regulatory requirements. Generous grants were received, including a $10,000 donation from the Chernoff Family Foundation, further contributing to the lodge’s improvements.

The formation of the “Friends of Eaglestone Lodge” group was acknowledged, as it aims to enhance residents’ lives through increased visitation, interaction with volunteers, and community events. Suggestions were made to involve schools in organizing activities that foster intergenerational connections and provide meaningful experiences for both students and residents.

During the meeting, concerns were raised

about allowing pets, particularly cats or dogs, within the lodge. The board will further discuss this suggestion, taking into account residents’ desires and potential concerns associated with pets’ presence.

The topic of potential rate increases for residents in care homes was also discussed. Stakeholders, including care home staff and board members, engaged in a conversation that explored the complexities involved in determining appropriate rates while ensuring quality care for residents. Financial considerations, government assistance, wage increases, and staff turnover were among the factors taken into account. The dialogue shed light on the challenges faced in balancing

financial stability with fair compensation for staff and affordable rates for residents.

The meeting also touched upon the selection of the Board of Directors and the importance of teamwork and a positive work environment. Participants recognized the efforts of past board members with gifts of flowers and expressed gratitude for their contributions to the organization. Additionally, the meeting welcomed new members to the board. Legal matters pertaining to Eaglestone Lodge were discussed during the meeting. Compliance with the nonprofit corporation act and regulations, as well as the Personal Care Home Act and regulations, was emphasized. The lodge’s status as a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency was also addressed, stressing the importance of maintaining compliance with the agency’s regulations to continue issuing tax receipts.

Amanda Burback said, “We’ve come so far, two years ago we were really worried about the financial situation, COVID-19 taking control of everything. We now have a waiting list, and so we were able to crawl out of COVID and get our feet back on the ground.”

The kids are alright: Leave baby wildlife alone

It’s spring in Saskatchewan and all kinds of wildlife are having their young. Everyone loves a baby but if you see a young animal that looks abandoned, it likely isn’t. In most cases, the best thing you can do to help them is to just let them be, according to a release.

Many animals leave their young alone for long periods while they

forage for food, or to protect them from predators. The mother is often nearby, sometimes even watching. At these times, the biggest danger can come from wellintentioned people who think the baby needs their help. In fact, contact with humans can greatly reduce a young animal’s chances for survival.

There are other good reasons to leave young

wildlife alone. Some infectious diseases, like rabies and West Nile virus, can be transmitted from wildlife to people.

It’s also illegal to take wild animals home. Only recognized and licensed wildlife rehabilitators have the expertise to provide appropriate care to orphaned and injured animals, giving them the best chance to be successfully released back into the wild.

For example, before concluding that a fawn is abandoned, ask yourself:

• Has it been lying in the same position for more than 10 hours?

• Is it vocal?

• Is it covered in insects?

• Is it wet, possibly covered by the morning dew?

In most situations, it ʼ s best to leave baby wildlife alone. A young animal ʼs chances for survival can be significantly reduced by contact with humans.

If you answered yes to any of these, the animal may have been there a while and needs help. Other indicators are if the mother is found dead nearby, or if the animal

is found in an unnatural situation, such as a baby bird on a doorstep. In that case, you can move the young bird to the closest suitable habitat.

Remember: always call for advice before removing a young animal from the wild. If you can see obvious signs of injury or believe the animal

has been orphaned, please contact your local conservation officer or the Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561.

The Eaglestone Lodge annual meeting discussed achievements of the past and also looked to the future, including the formation of Friends of Eaglestone Lodge. File Photo

123 First Avenue East (Box 746)

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

At the Kamsack air cadets’ annual ceremonial review, Cpl. Daryl Andrusiak of the Kamsack RCMP presented the Lord Strathcona Medal to his daughter F/Cpl. Brooklynn Andrusiak . The medal is the highest award which can be bestowed upon a Canadian cadet in recognition of exemplary performance in physical and military training. *****

Attending the centennial celebration of the former powerhouse at Kamsack, James Perry of Kamsack was photographed alongside a picture of his grandfather the late Albert Perry, who had worked at the power plant. *****

R.J. Woodward , president of the Kamsack Legion branch, the sponsoring body of the cadet squadron, presented the Legion award for the top first-year cadet to LAC HenryMartino Cade who was also recognized for being a team curler and the top junior marksman.

*****

Nancy Brunt presented the Stamatinos Leland Campbell award for top second- year cadet to Keanna Romaniuk , who also received the award for having the squadron’s top drill, dress and deportment. *****

The Capt. Merv Ozirny Shield, for the most helpful and admired cadet as was voted by the squadron, was presented by Ozirny to Sgt. James Ross Tourangeau *****

The perfect attendance award, sponsored by the Jimmy Koroluk Family, was presented by Jon Neima to LAC Cade Henry-Martino and Sgt. Casey Dix

Consumers flooded with information, trends hard to predict The Ag Scene

There are times that farmers have to wonder what exactly consumers are thinking when it comes to their decisions about what they put on the dinner table.

There are so many factors the consumer is being asked to consider today that makes understanding their final decisions often confusing.

There are those promoting the idea of livestock being sentient and so should be off the menu.

There are those who point to livestock as being greenhouse gas emitters and so to combat global weather changes should be off the menu, which one imagines means eating up the existing herds and basically stopping further production –which for some breeds at least could well mean extinction which could have future impacts not well understood today.

Others worry livestock consumes feed from acres that they believe would

CALVIN DANIELS

be better suited to grains for human consumption. While most of the above reasons might best be described as morale ones, there are also the mixed messages regarding what is best for humans in terms of what feeds our bodies best.

“Meat, eggs and milk offer crucial sources of much-needed nutrients which cannot easily be obtained from plant-based foods”, a new report issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) says in an online release on the organization website.

However, revisions to the Canada Food

Guide released in 2019 are pointedly different. The updated Food Guide emphasized plantbased foods and advised Canadians to consume less milk and meat.

One can sympathize if consumers aren’t quite sure which message is best for their families.

Ultimately, barring issues such as allergies or medical conditions limiting what one eats, it would seem, as in most things, moderation is a good starting place from which to determine family menus. Too much of anything; from raw sugars, to salt, to cured meats to any other menu item is not likely the best option.

It is also likely most any food in moderation is not going to be horrible for some unless the aforementioned issues are present. Is eating beef or pork OK? Well for most, the answer is no doubt yes. The same can be said for consuming legumes as a protein source. The better answer still is quite likely a diet with some of both on the menu regularly.

And let’s not forget humans have been drinking animal milks for centuries, so to suddenly think that is bad seems unlikely, although perhaps consumption needs to be adjusted for lifestyle. Most of us do not do the physical work we would have accomplished even 50 years ago, so our nutrient needs are going to be different.

The key is assimilating the data being tossed out and finding a balance that works in the kitchen for each of us.

Herbs can do so many things for a gardener and their garden

In the midst of planting our gardens and containers, don’t forget one enjoyable and interesting part of this year’s plantings: a herb collection! Whether you plant them in the garden or in containers by the back step (much more handy!), you will be happy to enjoy them all season.

Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme; this combination of herbs was musically immortalized by Simon and Garfunkel, but herbs are the flavour of life in the gardening world. Herbs and herbal healing have been around for thousands of years, going back to the ancient Chinese, the Egyptians, the Romans and the Greeks.

The earliest Christian monasteries included small, walled gardens, and by the ninth century, monks were creating ‘herbals’ containing important information about various herbs and their healing properties. (If you enjoy growing herbs, you’ll love the Brother Cadfael books by Ellis Peters. Brother Cadfael is a medieval monk who solves crimes based on his knowledge of plants and their healing or not-so-healing properties.)

Herbs have been used to cure, to comfort, to flavour. Since 85 per cent of all drugs are derived in some way from plants, we could use volumes to talk about the medicinal plants and herbs. So let’s talk about more common herbs.

The Garden Grapevine

DEBBIE HAYWARD

Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme are four good, basic herbs that you might want to try. Parsley is more than just a garnish on your plate in a restaurant – it’s loaded with flavour and vitamins. For gardeners, it’s a lovely accent plant in containers. There’s curly parsley and the flat-leaf, but my Mom always grew the flat-leaf, saying it had more flavor.

Sage is one of my favorites. That musky, mysterious scent is reason enough to grow this tasty herb. Most common is the regular, silver-grey leafed sage, but there is also a variegated kind, which is a colourful addition to your herb collection. Dazzle dinner guests with chicken saltimbocca using your own sage! It’s so easy to make. Mark Twain might say that it was chicken with a college education, and all because of the

addition of sage!

Rosemary is a fragrant and delicious herb. The leaves are small and quite dense, growing on strong stems with a bushy habit, tolerant of hot dry locations. It is also a beautiful plant to consider as a filler among a container of flowers. As a culinary plant, rosemary works especially well with pork.

Thyme is a gardener’s friend in so many ways. From a landscaping point of view, it is a hardy, low growing perennial that will survive our winters (bonus!), and it spreads easily. This is the plant you want for rock gardens. For the chef, thyme is used in many recipes, and packs a lot of flavour punch in its small leaves. This plant will make itself at home in your garden and be a reliable addition.

We’ve chatted about only four herbs, and there are dozens more that you would want to include in your herb garden: basil to team up with your tomatoes, dill for salmon or scrambled eggs, lavender for tea or in shortbread cookies, tarragon for baked fish... the list goes on and on! Keeping them handy makes then easy to use. You’ll be amazed at the burst of flavors! And if you season with healthy herbs, you can omit some salt from your diet – never a bad thing.

Start that herb collection. Delicious!

Good luck with your planting.

First spring cut is can be a major challenge

It has already been established that due to my advanced age and various related conditions, I have been sidelined to being an observer.

Marion hauled the lawnmower out of the shed and tried to start it. No luck, she chided herself for not draining out the gas last fall. She lifted the mower up on a hip-high planter so she could better get at the carburetor. That was when I entered on to the scene. She had a multitude of wrenches of various sized, but none fit the little carburetor hexagon screw. That’s when it dawned on her that she had brought imperial tools to a metric job. How was she to know?

After searching the shed and basement, she finally found the metric tool set that was hidden

in a basement cupboard totally unrelated to tools. While she was searching the basement, I decided to take a look in the shed for other lawnmowerrequired tools or parts, and I found a brand-new sparkplug that we had bought last year, as well as an engine starter spray. First things first, we decided to replace the old sparkplug, which required a special sparkplug socket. The first one she tried was too short. She uttered a few unlady-like phrases, then found the longer one in the metric tool set. I helped her assembling an extension on to the ratchet and socket. She unscrewed the sparkplug and tried to disassemble the ratchet from the extension and socket.

I’m not a mechanic but at least I knew to push on the back of the ratchet,

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

causing the extension to pop off. “Wow!” said Marion. “That was simple.” For years, she had been prying with a screwdriver while pulling with a pair of pliers.

We decided to get some more engine spray before working on the carburetor, so Marion drove to the Co-op gas station and hardware store to resupply. There she ran into a young man who told Marion how to clean the carburetor without disassembling the engine. She came home, did as the young chap had told her,

and voila, the carburetor was cleaned.

After a few attempts, the lawnmower decided to cooperate and started. I did the first couple of back and forth passes before Marion took one look at me and put me on the sideline while she finished mowing the law in the yard as well as outside. Just because I’m old she gets to have all the fun. Not fair!

Ole and Sven were enjoying their lunch of Norwegian meatballs and mashed potatoes at Moe’s Bottoms Up Bar

and Grille, with shots of Akevitt chased by Moe’s special lager.

“I just bought a new lawnmower,” said Ole, “and I put the old mower out on the street in front of the house with a “FREE” sign next to it. Somebody came along and took the sign but left the lawnmower.”

“Really?” said Sven, “I guess you should have been more specific.”

Knut came and joined them for a desert of blueberry pie with a dollop of vanilla ice cream, along with shots of St. Halvard liqueur and coffee.

“When our old lawn mower broke down,” said Knut, “my wife kept hinting to me that we should either get it fixed or replaced, but somehow, I always had something else to take care of first, like organizing the shed,

clean up and ready the boat for the boating season and brewing my own beer. All these things were very important to me.”

“How did she handle that?” asked Ole.

“Well,” said Knut, “after a while she thought it would be a clever way of making her point. When I arrived home from work one day, I found her sitting in the tall grass snipping away at the blades of grass with a tiny pair of sewing scissors. I watched her in silence for a short time and went into the house. I was gone maybe a minute or two and when I came back out again, I handed her a toothbrush. I told her that when she was finished cutting the grass, perhaps she could sweep the driveway. I slept on the couch that night!”

Wheat midge management and why it’s so important

BY SAMANTHA MARCINO, PAg, Crops Extension Specialist, Yorkton

Wheat midge aren’t a new pest to Saskatchewan, but as chemical control options change, it’s important to stay informed about other management options.

Wheat midge adults are small, fragile orange flies that are about half the size of a mosquito. They emerge in late June or early July and live for less than seven days. One female lays 80 eggs on average. Egg laying will generally take place when temperatures are at least 15°C, winds are less than 10

km/hr and after 8 p.m. The egg stage will only last four to seven days, depending on temperature, and once they hatch, they will feed on the developing kernels. They will feed and grow for two to three weeks before dropping to the ground where they bury themselves into the soil. After winter and once the temperature and soil conditions are suitable, the larvae come to the soil to pupate, restarting the life cycle. There is a short window for wheat midge damage, but the loss can be excessive in certain years. Wheat

crops are susceptible from when the boot splits to mid flowering. There are cultural control options, which include crop rotation, parasitic wasps as well as midge tolerant wheat. Midge tolerant wheat contains the Sm1 gene, which prevents larvae from establishing on developing seeds.

Even with cultural controls, there are circumstances where chemical control may be required. The thresholds differ depending on if you are concerned about yield or grade. For yield, the threshold is one midge per four to five

heads; and for grade, it is one midge per eight to 10 heads. Chemical controls are only recommended to be used before the crop has flowered as the options on the market only control the females and won’t control eggs or larvae. They are best applied in the evening when the female midge are active. It is also important to remember that at advanced flowering stages the wheat is no longer susceptible to wheat midge damage and spraying would no longer be beneficial. Wheat midge are a pest of concern but can be managed with the proper controls.

Red River Mutual invites communities to apply for funding to spruce up their stories

Winnipeg – Red River Mutual’s community sponsorship initiative, Spruce Up Your Story, is back for its fourth year and offering $150,000 in total to help restore well-worn, but wellloved spaces that are at the heart of communities across Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

“The goal of Spruce Up Your Story is to ensure the places where communities gather continue to thrive for generations to come. It’s not about

replacing these spaces, but rather breathing new life into them,” said Jennifer Ewankiw, Vice President of Strategy and Business Development, in a release. “We’re committed to helping make a change in the communities and neighbourhoods we do business in. Red River Mutual is part of the community, a neighbour, and we want to be there for our neighbours.”

This year, Red River Mutual will help restore select community spaces

where people connect, laugh, learn, and share. Deserving communities across the prairies will receive a share of $150,000. On top of the monetary gift, the winners will also have access to additional volunteer hours from a crew of Red River Mutual and local brokerage staff members to help complete their projects.

Since 2020, Red River Mutual has awarded more than $450,000 to support 30 community spaces across Manitoba and

Saskatchewan. In 2020, Red River Mutual awarded $35,900 to Battlefords Boys & Girls Clubs Inc. in North Battleford, Saskatchewan to help them spruce up their basement space for their Husky Energy Youth Program.

“BGC Battlefords is special. We’re a safe space where community youth can fall and land, no matter what their circumstances are,” says Nicole Combres, Executive Director. “The upgrades

were essentially to finish our space – we had a basement that was unfinished with concrete floors and partially painted walls. The Red River Mutual initiative was a game changer – seeing the kids’ faces when they saw it all spruced up, looking brand new – it was and still is emotional.”

Applications for this year’s initiative are now open. The submitted renovation or beautification projects will be evaluated based on community use

Wheat midge are a small pest in terms of size, but they can do significant damage and cause excessive yield losses. It ʼ s important for farmers to keep on top of control choices, including chemicals and other options.

and significance, commitment to sustainability, aspects of volunteerism, and connections to a local Red River Mutual affiliated insurance brokerage. For a full list of previous winners and updates on their projects, visit redrivermutual.com/ spruce-up-your-story/ winners/. Members of the public can submit a project for consideration until May 31 and learn more about the initiative by visiting SpruceUpYourStory. com.

Merchandise exports see continued growth in Saskatchewan

Statistics Canada is reporting more growth for Saskatchewan’s economy. Merchandise exports have increased 13.4 per cent in March 2023 compared to February 2023, while year-overyear the province saw a nine per cent increase.

In the first three

months of 2023, Saskatchewan saw the third highest increase in the nation with a 29.5 per cent jump, compared to the same period in 2022.

“It’s clear that Saskatchewan has the food, fuel and fertilizer that the world needs.

Our province continues to prove it has incredible economic potential,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said in a release. “We are attracting investment and growing our export markets to maintain our strong economy

and ensure growth that works for everyone.”

In the first three months of 2023, the total value of merchandise exports was more than $13.6 billion, with farm, fishing and intermediate food products leading that growth at $5.9 billion.

Earlier, Statistics

Canada released the 2022 Real Gross Domestic Product report, showing Saskatchewan with the highest increase among provinces with a 5.7 per cent jump from 2021. Saskatchewan has also led the nation in several other key

economic indicators recently. In February 2023, Saskatchewan saw increases in wholesale trade by more than 30 per cent compared to February 2022 and an increase of 1.7 per cent in employment, with 9,500 new jobs created in March 2023.

Eaglestone Lodge celebrates Mother’s Day

Residents, family members, and friends of the Eaglestone Lodge gathered together on Sunday, May 14, to celebrate Mother’s Day with a delightful tea party. The event was organized by the staff and The Friends of Eaglestone, and it was a heartwarming occasion for all involved.

Attendees were treated to a spread of dainties and tea, which was served by the organizers. The tables were beautifully decorated with watering cans adorned with flowers. The residents, in particular, were thrilled with the decorations and the food, and they expressed their appreciation for the effort put in by the organizers.

Overall, it was a very special day for everyone who attended the Mother’s Day Tea. The community came together to honor and celebrate the wonderful mothers in their lives, and it was wonderful occasion.

The Mother ʼ s Day celebration had smiles all around, the floral decorations were also greatly appreciated.

Field peas and durum lead seeding progress

Producers have made great seeding progress recently and the region has 21 per cent seeded. This is ahead of last year of 13 per cent and behind the five-year average of 33 per cent seeded, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s weekly crop

report for May 9 to 15.

Field peas and durum are both 52 per cent seeded and are leading the overall seeding progress.

Barley is 36 per cent, len-

tils 34 per cent and spring

wheat 31 per cent seeded.

Flax is the furthest from completion with only two

per cent in the ground. There were no significant rain events this past week in the east-central region of Saskatchewan. The Esterhazy and Craik areas received 18 mm of rain this past week. Other parts of the east-central region received trace

amounts of rain.

Cropland topsoil moisture condition is 83 per cent adequate while hay and pasture land is at 80 per cent adequate.

Fourteen per cent of topsoil moisture is short in both.

Producers are busy spraying when not working with cattle or seeding.

Producers are concerned regarding potential dry spells impacting soil moisture levels and are hoping for rain soon, concluded the report.

7.0¢/L

7

7 7.7¢/L

EAST CENTRAL SASKATCHEWAN CROP REPORT

Farmers across the region have been able to advantage of recent dry weather and get a lot of seeding done.

Legion looks forward to future after pandemic

Recently, on the 16th of May, the Kamsack Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion held a general meeting, while also talking with the Kamsack Times about their plans for the future.

One of the main highlights discussed was the resumption of their beloved bingo nights, which have been instrumental in supporting the Legion. Every Friday night, the Legion comes alive with shuffleboard, darts, cards, and more. Meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month, providing an opportunity for members to engage and contribute to the Legion’s activities.

The Legion members expressed their enthusiasm for upcoming events. A significant event mentioned was Decoration Day on June 4, where a parade takes place at the cemetery, followed by a communal gathering at the Legion, featuring burgers and hotdogs prepared by the Legion members. Attendees are invited to contribute by bringing a salad or dessert to share.

The Legion takes pride in its inclusive atmosphere and emphasizes that membership is no longer restricted to military

personnel. Anyone interested in joining and participating in Legion activities is welcome.

The primary focus of the Legion revolves around supporting veterans, veterans’ widows or widowers, and youth. They have been involved in various initiatives, including

providing bursaries to students with a veteran or RCMP officer background, supporting local sports teams, and contributing to community projects.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was not lost on the Legion members, who highlighted the challenges faced

during the past two years. Their fundraising efforts, primarily driven by bingos, were significantly affected. However, they expressed optimism about the recent positive trends in attendance, indicating a return to normalcy.

In addition to their ongoing contributions to

veterans and community initiatives, the Legion provides social opportunities for all. They encourage individuals to visit on TGIF Fridays, where the bar is open, and various recreational activities take place, such as card games, and pool.

As the conversation

drew to a close, the Legion members expressed their desire for increased membership and encouraged interested individuals to reach out. They emphasized that their doors are open and encouraged locals to attend Saturday bingos or stop by on Friday nights.

TOWN-WIDE GARAGE SALE 2023

Members of the Legion and those who attended the meeting gathered for a photo during their monthly general meeting.

Much-anticipated Canora Aquatic Park opening just around the corner

The wait is almost over. Assuming there are no unexpected delays, the Canora Aquatic Park is expected to open in early June according to Aaron Herriges, director of leisure services.

The exact soft launch opening date “is a bit up in the air as we are working our way toward the finish line. One of the more noticeable tasks left is the parking lot but we are hoping to have that completed by the end of May,” said Herriges.

“Aside from that, mechanical and health inspections need to be passed, the playground needs to be finished, sponsor signage installed, and some landscaping. Most of the finishing work will be done throughout the season and will not affect our ability to open.”

From a day-to-day standpoint, a large and capable staff is in place heading into the new season.

“We have many returning lifeguards and a bunch new faces we are excited to add to our group,” said Herriges. “Mackenzie Gulka is returning for her ninth season with the Town of Canora aquatics program. As the experienced manager she is, Mackenzie’s knowledge has been extremely valuable in not only the transfer to a new facility, but our transition from the Red Cross Program to the Life Saving Society. The Town is glad she is back to help us through this process because there are some changes to the program that only trained people would be able to distinguish.”

Gulka will be continuing on as manager until July, when she will be moving on to further her education.

“Taking her place midseason will be Breanne Woloshyn,” said Herriges. “Breanne brings the personality, skills, and program experience we look for in this role. We are glad she accepted the position and the program will be in good

hands after Mackenzie leaves.”

The new park will offer similar swimming programs as in past years, including: public swim times, Aquafit, lane swims, swimming lessons, and private rentals.

“Our Aquafit program is especially great for Seniors as it is very low impact exercise. The Town of Canora is offering our Aquafit program this season at no cost to our seniors 65 and up. It’s important they can experience the benefits of the program without barriers. They will need to phone the pool and register for the program after the schedule is released.”

Mackenzie Gulka said swimming lesson registration is going to look a little different this year.

“With a new facility, we have converted the registration for all our programs to completely online. We are using a platform called BOOKKING, which will allow for families or individuals to make an account and register for any of our programs.”

The BOOKKING site is expected to be unveiled to the public in the very near future.

Each family can make

one account and add their children to their profile. All the programs are created for the whole summer and registration will become available for all of them at once.

“Our swimming lessons are transitioning from the Red Cross Swimming Lesson program to the Lifesaving Society programs,” continued Gulka. “We will be offering Swim for Life swimming lessons and the Canadian Swim Patrol program. The Red Cross equivalencies to the Lifesaving Society swimming lessons can be found on our Canora Aquatic Park website. Each individual course also has a description and a list of the prerequisites needed.”

Aquafit and Lane Swim will once again be available in June, and the dates can be found on the June 2023 schedule, according to Gulka.

“Aquafit and Lane Swim are each offered four times a week and we charge $5 for a drop-in fee,” said Gulka. “We highly encourage patrons to check out our monthly pass on our registration page where patrons can purchase a month pass for either June, July, or August of either Aquafit or

lane swim for a deal of only $40 a month.

“We are excited to offer some new programs this summer. We will be offering youth/adult swimming lessons on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in June that run for three weeks per session. This program is for anyone 12 years of age or older at any skill level.

“We are also offering a Fitness Swimmer program that will be running in June on Wednesday and Friday mornings. Fitness Swimmer is for all ages of swimmers who are capable of swimming 50m continuously. It consists of structured workouts that help improve muscle strength and endurance.”

Those looking for more information are encouraged to go to Canora.com and visit the swimming page, including finding out when the BOOKKING site goes live.

“We highly encourage everyone to create an account because we believe this process will make registration easier and more effective for families,” said Gulka. “Anyone who requires assistance with registration can stop by the Canora Aquatic Park and staff will gladly assist

them with the registration process.”

Herriges said, like most area residents, Town Council and staff are excited to see the Canora Aquatic Park project completed. But as is the case with every new facility, there will be changes and challenges.

“One of those changes is that we will be introducing electronic transactions for the public’s convenience,” he explained. “Another small change is our admission policy, which mirrors that of the Access Water

Park in Yorkton. The policy includes wristbands for certain ages and swimming abilities. This will help our lifeguards keep order in the pool and identify where problems may potentially exist in the water. Their primary objective is to keep swimmers safe and this supports that. For additional information on the admission policy, please visit the Canora.com swimming page.”

Herriges reminds the public that staff members at the new facility are youthful and skilled, but sometimes inexperienced.

“So when the season begins, I want to encourage the public to be mindful that these young people will be operating a slightly more sophisticated facility and there will be a learning curve. This pool will no doubt be busier, so the continued show of respect towards them will be much appreciated.”

Season passes and swim cards will be sold at the pool. More details are available at Canora.com.

Anyone that is on the donation list with $500 or more can redeem their swim pass or punch card when the season opens.

The official grand opening date for Canora Aquatic Park is set for Wednesday July 19, with details to come as they become available.

Canora and area swimming enthusiasts are eagerly looking forward to the opening of the pool at Canora Aquatic Park, scheduled for early June.

The two side-by-side slides will provide plenty of thrills and fun for swimmers.

Mackenzie Gulka, in her ninth year with the aquatics program, will manage the pool through the opening month, before departing in July to pursue educational opportunities.

Swimmers can look forward to seeing the smiling face of Breanne Woloshyn at the pool all summer, who will be taking over as manager in July.

First 20 Words: $7

Extra Words: 22¢ each

Add photo: $15 each Call 306-563-5131 to book your ad or email

WANTED

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.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 49 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306- 649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details.

HEALTH SERVICES

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOMINATIONS FOR CELEBRATING SENIORS PROVINCIAL VOLUTNEER AWARDS

Gala on Sunday October 1, 2023 Conexus Arts Centre, Regina

YOU CAN NOMINATE A DESERVING SENIOR VOLUNTEER WHO CONTRIBUTES TO YOUR COMMUNITY!

Nominees must be: - 55+ - Reside in Sask - Be a volunteer in your community

Go to SSM website for more information: www.skseniors mechanism.ca OR email ssm@skseniors mechanism.ca OR phone 306-359-9956

Deadline for nominations is June 1, 2023

COMING EVENTS

Holy Assumption (St. Mary’s)

Orthodox Church, north of Stenen, SK

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Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

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321B 3rd Ave. S. Kamsack SK Tel:306 351 3977

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food handling ticket. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc.

Fax: 306-769-8844

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HEAVY EQUIPMENT

Once again, Highway 5 makes annual list of top ten worst roads

From April 4 to 25, Saskatchewan road users including pedestrians, motorists, cyclists, transit riders, and motorcyclists, have nominated and voted for their worst, unsafe roads. The common safety concerns for worst, unsafe roads are crumbling pavement, potholes, lack of maintenance or repair, congestion, not enough signage, and poor infrastructure.

Here are the CAA 2023

Top Ten Worst Roads:

1). Saskatchewan 44, Eston. Major problem: Potholes

2). Saskatchewan 30, Eston. Major problem: Potholes

3). Coteau Street West, Moose Jaw. Major problem: Potholes

4). Highway 13, Redvers. Major problem: Potholes

5). Saskatchewan 5, Buchanan. Major problem: Poor road maintenance (#5 in 2022 CAA Worst Roads campaign)

6)/ Butte Street, Pilot Butte. Major problem: Potholes

7). Saskatchewan 9, Whitewood. Major problem: Potholes

8). Saskatchewan 123, Petaigan/Ravendale/ Pemmican Portage. Major problem: Potholes

9). Highway 9, Hudson Bay. Major problem: Potholes (#3 in 2022 and 2021 and #5 in 2018 CAA Worst Roads)

10). Old Highway 35, White Fox. Major problem:

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Potholes

A total of 292 roads were nominated and voted on during this year’s CAA Worst Roads campaign. These included roads and highways from across the province that have made CAA’s Worst Roads Top Ten list in previous years such as: Saskatchewan

5 Buchanan (#5 in 2022), Saskatchewan 47 Springside (#2 in 2022 and #2 in 2018), 9th Avenue

Southwest in Moose Jaw (#10 in 2022 and in 2018), as well as some new additions including Regina’s Connaught Street, Weyburn’s 1st Avenue Northeast, and Wanuskewin Road in Saskatoon. The collection of roads nominated and voted during this year’s campaign does indicate that Saskatchewan road users are concerned about their safety while travelling

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Rural Municipality of St. Philips No. 301

Everyone welcome. Please call Lilia 306-594-2114 with questions.

PRAYER CORNER

Church Schedule for St. Stephen’s Kamsack and St Philips: Kamsack

Sun May 28 - 11 a.m. St. Philips at 1 p.m.

SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian

Catholic Church schedule: Sat May 27 Buchanan Praznyk 4 p.m.

Sun May 28 Kamsack 9 a.m.

Canora 11 a.m. Norquay 1:15 p.m. Hudson Bay 4:30 p.m. Mon May 29 Canora cemetery South 2-3:30 p.m. Tues May 30 Canora cemetery North 2-3:30 p.m. Wed May 31 Kamsack Cemetery 2-3:30 p.m. Thurs June 1 Norquay H. Trinity cemetery 2 p.m. Norquay St. Demetruis cemetery 2:30 p.m.

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Applications are being accepted for the position of Administrator of the Rural Municipality of St. Philips No. 301. The office is located in the Village of Pelly. The ideal candidate will possess:

on our roads and highways, with this year’s top ten list indicating the roads that received the majority of the votes.

Weather conditions, age of the roads, heavy traffic, and lack of maintenance can cause road deterioration. In cold climates like Saskatchewan, the freezethaw cycle plays a key role in creating potholes – a problem that occurs when temperatures regularly go above and below the freezing point. When rain or snow seeps through cracks and openings in the pavement, it freezes and expands, causing the pavement to heave upward. As temperatures rise, the ground underneath the pavement returns to its normal level, leaving a cavity or hole, which breaks apart with continued road user traffic over the fractured pavement.

Saskatchewan is a landlocked province and has almost 250,000 km of roads, the highest length of road surface compared to any other province in Canada. These roads, often a lifeline for many residents, are used on a regular basis for business and leisure road travel and when these roads are allowed to deteriorate, road users pay the price.

confidentiality.

Rural Municipality of St. Philips No. 301 Box 220, Pelly, SK, S0A 2Z0 Thank

CAA Saskatchewan is a dedicated safety advocate, and the CAA Worst Roads is an online engagement campaign aimed at drawing attention to our province’s worst, unsafe roads. This year’s top ten list of worst roads will be distributed to government and business leaders in hopes of sparking conversation and action.

Working towards better roads and safety for all road users is a priority for CAA Saskatchewan.

The results of the CAA Worst Roads campaign are in and, as was the case last year, out of all the roads in Saskatchewan, the stretch of Highway 5 from Canora through Buchanan to Rama finished fifth. –File Photo

Throwback Thursday: From the Kamsack Times files

(EDITOR’S NOTE: These items were printed in the 1988 issues of the Kamsack Times.)

With a change in the system of operating its trains, the CNR needed another station as a control point on its tracks between Mikado and Canora. Located on the Togo subdivision at 120.6 miles from Dauphin, Man., which is about four miles east of Canora, the station was named Rink, in honor of Kamsack Mayor Bernie Rink, who in 1980 retired as a conductor.

Sandra Kitchemonia, a chairman of the Kamsack air cadets civilian committee, expressed the committeeʼs thanks to Jim Lucas, a retiring commanding officer, during a cadet annual inspection and awards banquet.

A senior jazz group of the Kamsack Dance Association performed to the music of A Woman is a Sometime Thing during the associationʼs recital. From left were: Phoebe Dey, Tara Glute, Gillian Dey, Jennifer Martyniuk, Renata Lemire, Treny Sasyniuk, Kelly OʼNeill, Heather Moriarty and Lisa Chutskoff.

Recognized during the Kamsack air cadets ʼ annual awards banquet for having attended national courses the previous summer, were, from left: Cheryl Pollon, Denzil Kitchemonia, Mickey Rezansoff, Ray Pollon and Tammy Bodnaryk.

Among the members of the Kamsack Dance Association that performed on stage in the junior high during an annual recital were, from left: Jeannine Le Sann, Amber Roll, Jackie Bear and Coral Kostick.

Working at the pool during the summer of 1988 were, from left: Paul Procyshyn, manager; Lisa Bleich, junior guard; Scott Yarie, Instructor I; Jon Vereschagin, junior guard; Monty Nelson, assistant manager; Darryl Chernoff, Instructor I; Sherry Galye, guard; William Swetlikoff, guard, and Wayne Chernoff, Instructor 2. Paula Ratushny, who had been reassigned a part-time position from a full-time position, was not available for the photograph.

Performing with Gillian Dey, members of the Kamsack Dance Association ʼ s kinderdance group were strawberries during an annual recital. From left were: back row, Kayla Verigin, Megan Grywacheski, Julianne Larson, Lyndsay Galye, Jeannine LeSann, Jackie Bear, front, Tanya Rac, Sheena Podovinnikoff, Stefanie Tetoff, Ashley Rogal and Stephanie Wallace.

KAMSACK & AREA SERVICES DIRECTORY

Rama audience thoroughly entertained at Old Fashioned Hoedown

For anyone who likes their traditional music mixed with a healthy dose of family-friendly humour, St. Anthony’s Parish Hall in Rama was the place to be on May 13.

Renowned Canadian Fiddle Champion Scott Woods and his All-Star band provided the entertainment with their Old Fashioned Hoedown

Woods said he and his bandmates thoroughly appreciated the hospitality.

“They just rolled out the red carpet for us,” he said. “Our show speaks to the rural community. It’s the music the pioneers played, and it speaks to residents even now. Everyone seemed to have a great time, us included.”

Mary Kowalyshyn, one of the organizers of the event, said it was “an up-lifting two-hour Branson-style

show that featured numerous fiddle tunes in the style of Don Messer, Graham Townsend and Al Chomey along with traditional country and Gospel songs that kept the audience entertained and their toes tapping.

“The show featured music for all ages: family humour, sensational step dancing and inspirational stories. But what kept the audience in awe was Scott’s keen wit and prowess on his fiddle while using a coat hanger, a broomstick or a toilet plunger as his bow and of course, his famous trick fiddling when he did a somersault and balanced on a rolling barrel all while playing his fiddle.”

Woods was joined onstage by a talented band of musicians.

Kendra Norris, Woods’ sister, is a multiple winner of the Canadian Open Fiddle

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary edding

Ron and Marilyn Lachambre, May 26, 2023 Love

Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship as well as Fiddle Entertainer of the Year. In 2018, he was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Association.

Woods said he thoroughly enjoys performing, including connecting with the members of the band, as well as experiencing positive feedback from the audience.

“It’s great to see someone smile when they hear a tune. That usually means the song means something from their history. And it’s special when we meet people with health problems who tell us our show distracts them from their worries.”

day for 17 days straight, heading west through Saskatchewan on our way shows in Alberta.”

Competition in the 19-45 class, a three-time Canadian Duet Fiddle Champion with her brother, and a multiinstrumentalist (piano, accordion, and singer). She has a gift for writing harmony and arranging.

Leo Stock, known as “spaghetti legs” is the current Canadian Open Step Dance Champion. He was the drummer, but also performed several fiddle tunes, sang the famous auctioneer song “and amazed the audience with his step dancing.”

Germain Leduc, also a champion fiddler, bass player, piano accompanist and recording artist was part of the band. He impressed the audience while playing the piano with his back turned.

Kathy Musty accompanied the band on piano.

Guest singer, Gloria Dove Bastien of Foam Lake, sang the song Family Bible Scott Woods is a twotime winner of the Canadian Open Fiddle Contest, two-time winner of the

Family-oriented humour is an important part of the show, and to hear Woods tell it, the cornier the jokes, the better.

“In Rama, I told the one about Leo Stock, our drummer and step dancing champion, but one day Leo told me he was seeing spots. When I asked if he was seeing a doctor, he said, ‘No, just spots.’”

Woods has performed all over the world for large crowds in the thousands, but also enjoys more intimate settings like the one in Rama

He first met up with the organizers from Rama several years ago while performing in Yorkton. They invited Woods to give a concert in Rama in 2020, but due to COVID-19, it took until this year for the visit to come together.

Now that pandemic restrictions have been lifted, the group has a busy schedule.

“We have 39 shows in five provinces on our current tour. We are playing every

Possibly the best-known nickname given to Woods is “The Flippin’ Fiddler.”

“Many years ago we were headed to Cape Breton Island for a concert. The Cape Breton Post newspaper called and asked for an interview,” recalled Woods.

“I told them that during the concert I do a front running somersault with my fiddle as one of my tricks. From that interview, the newspaper headline was ‘Flippin’ Fiddler coming to Cape Breton’ and the nickname stuck.”

Woods said he grew up in a musical home in Ontario as the youngest of four siblings, and by the age of four, he couldn’t wait to

learn the fickle. His father Merv played the fiddle and his mother Carolyn played piano, which was how they first met

“Dad would teach us fiddle tunes, I started playing with the family band, and I gradually took over.”

Following the Rama Hoedown, St. Anthony’s Ladies Club served strawberry shortcake as a special treat in celebration of Mother’s Day.

“It was a wonderful way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend and what a pleasure it was to host these talented entertainers in the village of Rama!” concluded Mary Kowalyshyn.

What better way to play Roll Out the Barrel than while rolling on a barrel?

Scott Woods and his band opened with a toe-tapping fiddle tune at the Old Fashioned Hoedown on May 13 in Rama.

Loud laughter and applause from the audience rewarded band member and Scott ʼ s sister Kendra Norris for her impersonation of Minnie Pearl.

Gloria Dove Bastien, guest performer from Foam Lake, sang Family Bible.

Drummer Leo Stock amazed the audience when he sang the auctioneer song at the Old Fashioned Hoedown

Leo “spaghetti legs” Stock showed the Rama audience why he is the Canadian Open Step Dance Champion.

Scott Woods demonstrated the use of a number of items as a bow, including a plunger.