Preeceville Progress 2020-12-03

Thursday, December 3, 2020 • Volume 89, Number 46

1

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We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

319 Main Street North, Box 318, Preeceville, Saskatchewan • S0A 3B0

Welcome opportunity to rest for young skiers Charis Maier, left, and Freya Sandager, both o f t h e Pre e c ev i l l e area, are part of the Preeceville Nordic Ski Club and had fun resting while crosscountry skiing along the Preeceville Lions Fa m i ly t ra i l s . S e e the story and more photos on Page 6.

Team sports curtailed, more masking in latest COVID restrictions

By Brian Zinchuk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Estevan Mercury Sports have not been shut down entirely, but games have, and practices are now reduced to eight people.

All but the youngest of children are now expected to wear masks when appropriate. Those were some of the latest restrictions the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health announced in another round of new restrictions to combat the spread

of COVID-19.

Those restrictions in many ways do not go as far as some of what has been implemented in Alberta and Manitoba in recent days and weeks. Saskatchewan’s new cases on November 25 came in at 164, but the seven-day average is now 214.3, a relatively levelling off over the last four days.

While Manitoba has entered another lockdown, on November 24, Alberta announced that it would soon be closing junior high

and high schools, reverting to online learning as of this week, and extending the winter break for all students until January 11.

Saskatchewan will be doing neither, as it stands.

Premier Scott Moe, who is personally self-isolating after a possible exposure to COVID-19 at a Prince Albert restaurant 10 days earlier, made the announcement via videoconference on November 25. He was joined by Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib

Shahab, who was in the Legislature in Regina.

The new Saskatchewan measures were to come into effect at 12:01 a.m., November 27.

Moe said, “Our goal is to find the right balance, on behalf of the people in this province to protect Saskatchewan people from the spread of COVID-19, while at the same time, protecting the Saskatchewan people’s jobs and their livelihoods. Our goal is to not Continued on Page 2

Premier Scott Moe, left, appeared by video from his home in Shellbrook, 10 days into a 14-day selfisolation after possible exposure to COVID-19 at a Prince Albert restaurant. Dr. Saqib Shahab was on the right. -Screen capture from Government of Saskatchewan Facebook page

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Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Moe hoping to avoid complete shutdown Continued from Front Page shut down businesses, services and activities that ultimately put people out of work, and at times, may threaten their mental health. Our goal is to find ways for those things to operate and to do so safely, so that people can continue to participate in athletics and continue to work, while at the same time, continue to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.”

Public gatherings Moe said, “All indoor public gatherings will be limited to 30 people. This includes all types of social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, as well as worship services. No food or drink may be present or served at these events, and capacity will also be restricted to 30 people at all casinos, bingo halls, arenas, live performance venues and movie theatres, as well as any other facilities that currently have the capacity of up to 150 people.”

He noted that private gatherings in your home are still limited to five people.

Restaurants, bars and night clubs will not be shut down, but they will have to space out indoor clientele

even more, with limits of four people per table, and three metres between tables unless they have barriers installed, in which case two metres is sufficient.

Sports All team/group sports, activities, games, competitions, recitals, practices and so on are suspended, according to the release on November 25. This includes amateur and recreational leagues for all age groups. Examples include hockey, curling, racquet sports, cheerleading, dance practices in group setting and others.

“All team sports are going to be paused until December 17,” Moe said.

“However, athletes under the age of 18 may continue practicing or training in groups of eight or fewer.”

Masks strengthened Mask use is now required for all indoor fitness activities, except for swimming. Individual and group fitness activities can continue, but with three-metre spacing and limits of eight people in a group.

“All students, employees and visitors in schools and daycares are now required to wear a mask, except when they need to eat or drink. And mask use

is now required in all common areas of businesses and workplaces,” Moe said.

Children ages zero to two years-old are exempt from wearing masks. Children ages 3 to 12 should wear a mask if they are able to.

All employees and visitors in all common areas in businesses and workplaces are to wear masks, even in those areas which the public does not have access (e.g. construction sites, manufacturing facilities). “ L a rg e r e t a i l s t o r e s , must limit their capacity to 50 per cent or four square meters per person, whichever is less,” Moe said.

Sports led to school, work infections Shahab explained the reasoning behind the sports restrictions, saying that the nature of play always has a risk of transmission, even if you follow all the guidelines. “But over the last two to three weeks, they were becoming so frequent, and many cases, they were resulting in, for example, in children’s sports, multiple cases then being imported into schools.

For adult sports, multiple cases became imported into workplaces. So, it was really important to have that pause for three weeks to

slow down transmission in that setting.”

Once cases come down, Shahab said the guidelines may be adjusted again.

Moe explained how these particular restrictions were chosen, saying, “It would be great if we could just pinpoint one or two venues or one or two activities where this spread is occurring, and just restrict those zones. But the reality is, it’s COVID, it’s in our communities, and it has been spreading in a number of different places, both inside and outside of our homes, and that’s why we need to enact a number of different measures to get our numbers under control.”

As for why the restrictions didn’t go further, such as a complete shutdown, lockdown or circuit breaker, similar to what was done in the spring, Moe said, “We do understand this virus better than we did back in the spring. We do know more about how it is spread. And we know what we need to do to reduce the spread of this virus, to keep ourselves and keep others safe. We need to just slow down a little bit.

“The overwhelming majority of Saskatchewan

businesses and their employees in this province are operating safely, day to day. So, it would be terribly unfair, and it would have a huge negative impact, to close down all those businesses and put thousands of Saskatchewan people out of work. Yes, that is what we did, temporarily, this past spring. We took a very sweeping, broad brush approach to shutting down businesses, services and activities in our communities,” he said, adding, “But we don’t believe the solution is another wide-scale lockdown.

Moe said, “Putting thousands of Saskatchewan people out of work, devastating small businesses and families, ending their livelihoods in many cases; a much better approach for us is to find the right balance; to find ways for us to operate and to do so even more safely than we have.

We can do so by ensuring, yes, we are following all the existing guidelines that are in place. And by implementing some additional protocols we can allow businesses and services to remain open and do so safely.”

Moe said, “We’re not prepared to look at a

shutdown of our economy, in our communities, at this point in time, and we don’t believe it’s imminent that we will have to do a shutdown, here in the province.

But, in saying that, if we’re not able to bend the growth and rate of transmission of this disease, obviously, that is a conversation that may come in the weeks and months ahead.”

He said the actions taken thus far, and those added today, will hopefully not only flatten the rate of increase of infections, but bend that curve back down.

He thanked the business, athletic and worship organizations that took part in recent consultations with regards to these measures.

Both Moe and Shahab held out some hope that some restrictions might be lifted in time for the upcoming holidays. One possibility might be some allowable visits to longterm care homes, with multiple levels of personal protective equipment, but we’re not at that point in time, yet.

The Ministry of Health is now posting a listing of outbreaks in long-term care homes on the Government of Saskatchewan website.

Senior Cobras come out flying in first game After a dominant opening game effort in Hudson Bay on November 20 in their first game of the 2020/21 season in the new Sask East Hockey League, the Canora Senior Cobras home opener scheduled against the Ituna Avalanche for November 21 was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the team.

“The game had to be rescheduled because of COVID rules not allowing

us to play two different teams on the same weekend,” said Terry Dennis, coach.

In the game in Hudson Bay, the Cobras started fast with four first period goals, on the way to a 13 to 1 final score.

Ryley Stefanyshyn of Canora and Logan Foster of Kamsack led the scoring attack for Canora with a hat trick each. Foster added a pair of assists for a fivepoint evening. William Hauber and Kody Rock,

both of Canora, chipped in with a pair of goals each, while Sean Kolodziejski of Canora, Cole Rathgeber of Goodeve and Logan Hilderman of Kamsack added single markers.

Noah Tonn of Preeceville contributed two assists.

The winning goaltender was Blake Foster of Kamsack.

Dennis said he was pleased with the effort of his players in their first game together. “ We p l a y e d a g r e a t

game,” he enthused. “After a three-week tryout and getting the players picked they were excited to get on the ice and show their talent. The team came out with speed and finished checks all game. It was an all around good game by everyone.”

In addition to the hat tricks by Foster and Stefanyshyn, Dennis said Hauber was a standout on defence.

“He is our youngest player and had a strong

game, handing out some thunderous hits and a pitching in on offense as well. In goal Blake Foster didn’t have a busy night but was sharp when he had to be.”

After Cal Homeniuk, president and general manager, decided to bring back the Senior Cobras earlier in the year, Dennis said it was an easy decision when he was asked to coach the team.

“I was honoured and said yes!” he recalled. “I

picked Terry Wilson and K e l l y M c Ta v i s h a s m y two assistants. I coached a lot of these boys in minor hockey and love being at the rink with this group.

We h a v e a g r e a t b u n c h of guys from Canora, Kamsack, Preeceville, L a n g e n b u rg , G o o d e v e , Yo r k t o n a n d M e l v i l l e .

We have a great team and coaching staff. I’m excited for the season.”

The Cobras are hoping to continue their season in the new year.

Government announcement shuts down sports competition The Provincial Government/Ministry of Health have announced that all sport competition in Saskatchewan was to cease

as of November 27, stated the Saskatchewan Hockey Association website.

The following is an excerpt from the Government

Are you having trouble making your Christmas merry?

Then you are probably an individual or family that is in need of receiving a Christmas Hamper filled with good food from “Filling The Gap”.

We will help to make the holidays brighter.

Please contact Karolyn at 306-548-5478 or text 306-814-8818 to fill out an application. Application deadline is Monday, December 7. Completed applications can be mailed to Filling The Gap, Box 448, Sturgis, SK S0A 4A0, or texted to 306-814-8818.

Donations gratefully accepted.

Filling The Gap is a program coordinated by the SPE Family Resource Centre and the Preeceville & District Ministerial Association.

release.

Sports, Fitness and Dance All team/group sports, activities, games, competitions, recitals, practices and so on are suspended, including amateur and recreational leagues for all age groups.

Examples include hockey, curling, racquet sports,

cheerleading and dance practices in group settings Athletes and dancers 18 years of age and under may continue practicing, conditioning, and skills training in groups of eight or fewer, abiding by the required mask use and at least three meters of physical distancing between

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participants at all times.

Individual groups of eight may not share a training/rehearsal surface or space at the same time.

Coaches /trainers are not included in the training group numbers as long as they are masked and maintain a minimum physical distance of three meters.

Fitness activities and group fitness classes in groups of eight or fewer continues to be permitted, for all ages. Mask use and at least three meters of physical distancing between participants must be maintained.

In addition, there can be a maximum of 30 people in an arena.

Eight or fewer players

are allowed on the entire ice surface, plus coach/ instructor as long as all have face masks/coverings, plus helmet and face mask for players, and they must maintain physical distancing of three meters at all time while on the ice and in the dressing room.

At this time there will be no games of any kind from November 27 onward until the SHA Board of Directors assesses the state of the province in consultation with the Provincial Government Business Response Team in December.

Anyone with questions is asked to please contact the SHA Office.

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Preeceville Progress

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Canora/Sturgis RCMP activity report

By Sgt. Derek Friesen Canora RCMP Detachment The Canora/Sturgis RCMP responded to 84 calls during the week of November 19 to November 26, some of which included: three traffic accidents, 63 traffic offences, two municipal bylaws, one impaired driver, six other provincial statutes, two other criminal code incidents, one sexual assault, one harassment, one mischief, one fraud and three break-and-enters.

Erratic driving leads to arrests In the early morning of November 26, while assisting Kamsack RCMP, Canora RCMP noticed a

vehicle driving all over the road and in the ditch. Upon further investigation, the driver was impaired and the passengers had warrants out. All three were arrested, two were released to a sober adult and the third was remanded for court on the outstanding warrant.

Canora traffic On November 25, the Canora/Sturgis RCMP received a complaint from the Town of Canora regarding the new traffic bylaw. RCMP continue to investigate.

Puzzling Canora complaint A complainant attended the Canora detachment in

a panic on November 25 reporting a serious crime that just occurred at their residence. Police attended the alleged scene of the crime and determined that no crime was committed.

Fender bender Canora/Sturgis RCMP responded to a fender bender in the town of Canora on November 24.

No persons involved were injured.

Preeceville traffic stop On November 24, Yorkton Traffic Services, Preeceville Conservation, CN Police, Saskatchewan Highway Patrol, SGI Safety Officers and the Canora/Sturgis RCMP

performed a check stop at the intersection of Highways No. 9 and 49 in Preeceville. Statistics are still being compiled and will be reported once completed.

Wildlife reminder Canora/Sturgis RCMP would like to remind drivers about watching for wildlife. The Canora/ Sturgis RCMP has responded to several accidents of vehicle vs. wildlife.

Town of Canora break-in The Canora/Sturgis RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in solving the following crimes.

Between the evening of

November 22 and the morning of November 23, the Town of Canora Shop was broken into. It is possible that the suspect was driving an older purple or maroon coloured SUV. Anyone with any details is asked to contact the Canora/Sturgis RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Subway thefts During the first two weeks of November, two storage units beside the Subway in Canora were broken into, and items stolen. There was also a storage shed behind the Subway that was broken into during the same time, with items also being

stolen from there. The Canora/Sturgis RCMP are asking anyone with any information regarding this or any other crime to please contact Canora RCMP Detachment at 306-563-4700 or contact Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers. com.

Call the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Turn In Poachers & Polluters (TIPP) Line, tollfree, at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 from a Sasktel cellphone (phone calls only, no text messages).

Christmas activities scheduled despite COVID restrictions The Town of Preeceville is trying to keep Christmas as normal as possible despite the COVID-19 restrictions placed upon communities by the Saskatchewan Government.

The festivities kick off on December 6 with a Skate with Santa. The skate will take place outdoors at the Annie Laurie Lake with pre-registration being mandatory for an one-hour

time slot.

On December 12, a f u n S m o k e O ff C O V I D Christmas will be held featuring a competition where participants will battle it out to determine who can smoke the best ribs. The winner will receive $500 and will be voted on by individuals who purchased a meal that featured the selected ribs.

“In the past, the Town

would usually host a Christmas party with a variety of entertainment,” said Andrea Tonn, recreation director. “This year things have changed as to how we do things. The Preeceville Community Hall board would like to bring Christmas to you.

This is an excellent opportunity to treat your staff or yourself to a great meal and entertainment while

still following the public health guidelines. The entertainment this year is a virtual workshop that teaches bartending skills, creating cocktails and learning to master the art of bottle flipping,” she said.

The baby back ribs meal is part of the Smoker competition that will feature the favourite ribs voted on by individuals who had purchased a supper ticket.

There will also be a Santa parade on December 17 with Santa riding or walking down main street in Preeceville. Spectators are asked to park along the main street to greet or wave at Santa. There will be an opportunity to have a social distancing photograph with Santa at the south end of main street after he concludes the parade.

There is also a Christmas lighting event that has community members writing a short essay why they think that the outside of their home or someone else’s home should be decorated for free by the Preeceville Recreation Board. The winning essay will determine which house in Preeceville will be decorated.

Preeceville teacher honoured with GSSD Sea Star award Arlene Prestie was the recipient of the Good Spirit School Division Sea Star award. Mark Forsythe, superintendent for GSSD made the presentation during a Zoom online session on November 26.

Prestie, who teaches at Preeceville School, was also a past recipient of the Saskatchewan High School Athletic Outstanding Female

coach.

Prestie has been teaching and coaching for 25 years. She stated that she has coached almost every sport during her career both at the junior high and high school level. In the last number of years, she has focused specifically on the high school level, coaching basketball and volleyball.

In 2018, she took the senior girls volleyball team

to provincials which was a significant success. When asked what she does in her free time she said, “Coach.

I grew up in a small community and didn’t get the change to play a lot of sports while young. This is why I coach, to give kids an opportunity to play sports. The impact of involvement in sports is huge. Kids receive physical and mental health benefits from playing sports.

It helps them to develop a sense of responsibility.”

Cary Franklin, who also teaches at Preeceville School, spoke about Prestie’s involvement.

“Her enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with children in an athletic environment is very admirable. She has great relationships with students and continues to foster them beyond the classroom. She works with

teams and individuals to develop them, not only as athletes, but as people, incorporating life lessons encountered in the athletic and classroom settings.

“Her compassion for students during difficult personal times is as impressive as her dedication to skill development and work ethic. Prestie wants the best for her students, and sees the best in her students, even perhaps

w h e n t h e y d o n ’t t h e m selves. Arlene not only has high standards for her students, she holds herself to the same regard. Arlene is impeccably organized and prepared for her teams in a manner that creates the most positive seasons possible. She has, and continues to, create opportunities for students to excel in both the academic and athletic environment,” Franklin concluded.

Sturgis Composite School acknowledges long-time staff The Sturgis Composite School acknowledged two of its support staff for a Sea Star award that was presented on November 26.

Karen Boen has been a caretaker at the Sturgis School since 1995 and Adeline Mills has been a caretaker at the school since 2007.

“Every day our caretakers go above and beyond the call of duty. They just don’t clean the school;

they are a part of our family. They help guide our students and build positive relationships. They are an integral part of the school,” stated Kipp Bayer, principal.

“Every morning they are here bright and early working away, greeting staff and students with a friendly smile. This year in particular a lot was asked of them. They have been our front line workers in

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the schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the spring, while the majority of staff were forced to work from home they

were here getting the school ready for us to return, continually adapting to the constant change or routine that comes with

adjusting to a new normal.

“They have spent hours painting, hauling garbage, rearranging furniture, cleaning and sanitizing.

T h e S t u rg i s C o m p o s i t e School wishes to acknowledge and appreciate everything they do,” concluded Bayer.

Page 4

Progress

LOOKING BACK...

A Decade Ago Cassidy Paterson needed a little reassurance from her dad, Jim, that Santa was OK to talk to at the Skate with Santa Family Day at the Preeceville Skating Arena. ***** Mayor Garth Harris helped to auction the first item at the annual Christmas Hospital Auxiliary auction at Preeceville Club 60 to raise money for patient needs and equipment at the Preeceville and District Health Care Centre. ***** Organizers Patty Reynolds and Mayor Garth Harris deemed the annual Christmas Craft Sale at the Community Legion Hall a success, where 38 tables were booked featuring a variety of Christmas crafts and baking. ***** Mary Gulka, a resident at the Sturgis Care Home, celebrated her 101st birthday, crediting her longevity to “hard work, determination and keeping active daily.” ***** Bev Strand, Gladys Nazar, Hilde Minkler and Pearl Boychuk were among the Sturgis Care Home residents and staff who were busy making cabbage rolls. ***** The Everybody’s Playground project for playground equipment designed for easy access by handicapped children in Preeceville advanced to the semifinal round of the national funding competition sponsored by Aviva Canada Inc. ***** Shae Shewchuk, with the help of Lori Wolowski, acting postmistress for Preeceville, mailed her letter to Santa Clause.

Perspective Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Will pulse crops take over from canola?

While wheat was once king on the Canadian Prairies in terms of what farmers grew, changes in world markets eventually led to a change atop the crop list, at least in terms of value.

Recalling back to my days in school, and having grown up on a small Saskatchewan farm, I was keenly aware of the importance of wheat as a crop, and to Canada’s reputation for producing and delivering the highest quality wheat. This country was seen as the ‘breadbasket’ of the world, a reputation wellearned and economically significant.

That was in the 1970s and I doubt many saw the importance of wheat being usurped.

But, then from rapeseed evolved canola, a crop offering an oil that met a changing diet and growing demand, and over a number

of years the Prairie landscape turned yellow.

As the popularity of canola oil grew the crop became more and more popular with producers because it offered a better return.

While wheat remains a significant crop, canola is the queen these days.

The question that is interesting to ask is whether canola itself will one day be usurped as the key Prairie crop?

There are those that look at pulse crops as potentially achieving that.

Of course pulses cover a range of crops from chickpeas, to yellow and green

field peas, to a range of lentils and beans. As a collective group they are intriguing because they fix nitrogen in the soil, a definite side benefit to the crop itself, as it can reduce fertilizer costs.

The pulse range are also all generally grown as a protein source, both for the livestock sector, and human consumption. It is the latter area of human consumption that would seem to offer the greatest potential, and that comes from two factors.

On the one side the population of the world continues to grow, and that means added demand for food

in general, and of course protein.

When you look at the impact African Swine Fever has had in decimating the pig herd in countries such as China, the demand for protein is going to grow.

Here in North America there is also a growing market for protein alternatives as seen by the push from restaurants to offer an alternative to real meat with products made to look like meat but that are largely plant protein and a range of other ingredients.

While some might see the meat alternatives as a fad; likely to go the way of the pet rock, that may not be the case and legumes stand to benefit if the market lasts and grows.

If world and domestic demand is to rise, pulses could certainly move into the mix in terms of what crop is the key one for Prairie producers.

Tips for Beating the Blues and Managing Depression

By Stan Popovich Some people have a difficult time in managing their depression.

Sometimes, their depression and fears can get the best of them.

As a result, here are six techniques that a person can use to help manage their depression.

1. Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking: When encountering thoughts that make you fearful or

depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. Focus on the reality of your situation and not on your thoughts.

2. Take a break: Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting through the day. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to

some music, read the newspaper, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things.

3. Use self-visualization: Sometimes, we can get anxious over a task that we will have to perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you have to play in the championship volleyball game in front of a large group of people in the next few days. Before the big day

comes, imagine yourself playing the game in your mind. By doing this, you will be better prepared when the time comes.

4. Carry a small notebook of positive statements with you: Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you feel good, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read those statements.

5. Take advantage of the help that is available around you: If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage your fears and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem.

6. Take it one day at a time: Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different

opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with your problems.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Stan Popovich is the author of the popular managing fear book, “A Layman’s Guide To Managing Fear.” For more information about S t a n ’s b o o k a n d t o g e t some free mental health advice, please visit Stan’s w e b s i t e a t h t t p : / / w w w. managingfear.com. This is the second in a series of articles.)

An open letter to the people of Saskatchewan On behalf of the 34 associations, chambers of commerce, and economic development groups, as well as the tens of thousands of employers and employees we represent, we are jointly writing to express our strong support for the targeted

approach the Government of Saskatchewan has taken to address rising case counts in localized ‘hotspots,’ including new mandatory mask requirements.

While we acknowledge some businesses will be significantly affected by the

announcement, returning to a widespread, large-scale lockdown would be catastrophic to Saskatchewan jobs, Saskatchewan families, and on the immediate survivability of Saskatchewan businesses; even with new and extensive government

intervention. The health, societal, and economic harm would have lasting, irreversible impacts.

We are calling on all Saskatchewan residents to follow the restrictions and guidelines set out by our public health experts. Do

Ken Lewchuk - Publisher Rocky Neufeld - Editor Liz Jacobsen - Preeceville Reporter Ph: 306-547-2954 Fax: 306-547-4333 Lori Bugera - Sales Associate 319 Main Street North, Box 318, Preeceville, SK S0A 3B0 Canora Office: Ph: 306-563-5131 Fax: 306-563-6144 Editorial: canoracourier@sasktel.net Sales: sales.canoracourier@sasktel.net Classified Advertising: office.canoracourier@sasktel.net

your part and be a good neighbour. We also support the proactive enforcement of these critical measures.

Last but not least: As we enter the holiday season, we ask Saskatchewan residents to support local businesses wherever possible. Many of

these businesses are barely hanging on, and every little bit counts. And above all else: Be kind to each other.

We are all in this together.

Jim Bence President & CEO Saskatchewan Hotel & Hospitality Association

Member Canadian Community Newspapers Association.

Member Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association.

Audited by Audit Bureau of Circulations.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

Preeceville Progress owned and operated by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp.

Advertising rates are available upon request and are subject to change without notice. Conditions of editorial and advertising content: Canora Courier attempts to be accurate in editorial and advertising content; however, no guarantee is given or implied. The Canora Courier will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion and is not responsible for errors in advertisements other than the space occupied by such errors. Canora Courier reserves the right to revise or reject any of advertising content as the newspaper’s principles see fit. All of Canora Courier’s content is protected by Canadian Copyright laws.

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Preeceville Progress

Page 5

There’s magic behind the metal at Kamsack’s Howler Custom Cycles Those who have travelled east through Kamsack on Queen Elizabeth Boulevard may have caught a glimpse of the colour-splashed logo or perhaps the motorcycle suspended on a post, some 20 feet high. What isn’t seen on the surface is the extent of the elbow grease and artistry going on behind the doors of Howler Custom Cycle.

It was nearly 17 years ago that owner, John Berezowski, purchased the vacant building on Kamsack’s main thoroughfare from the Town of Kamsack for the sum of $1.

Like many young men of rural Saskatchewan, Berezowski had been making his living

as a farmer. As the years went on, he began to realize that he and farming were not the best fit. In fact, most of his enjoyment came from the time he spent working in his garage and experimenting with different types of welding and mechanics.

As his growing passion fueled him to learn and practice new skills, Berezowski came to the conclusion of his first major project – a custom motorcycle. He decided to put it up for sale, and the piece sold quickly.

It was at this point that Berezowski directed his passion toward the notion of a custom cycle shop and

A customer requested her grandmother’s lace be painted on this Howler custom bike.

Howler Custom Cycle delivers every imaginative detail to customers. showroom. He began to research possible locations in Alberta, where the custom motorcycle industry was thriving at the time. Although Albertans had enough disposable income to be steady customers in those days, the costs of opening a shop in the popular industrial neighbourhoods was exorbitant.

“I knew it was a high-risk venture,” said Berezowski.

“I needed to keep my costs low, so I decided to open up at home.”

It was around this time that his 16-year-old nephew, Dustin Stenhouse, took interest in his uncle’s vision.

However, it would be awhile before the Kamsack teen would get his hands on any of the motorcycles he was envisioning. Stepping into the newly acquired building that had been vacant for a number of years prior, the pair was immediately overwhelmed by the amount of work that needed to be done.

“Garbage was piled knee high in some areas,” said Stenhouse. The pair assumed they would be laying new

cement in the shop area, but soon realized there was already a cement floor, albeit caked underneath a couple of inches of packed dirt.

Berezowski said the structure had been host to many businesses over the years, including a drive-through restaurant, a tourism info centre, and a garage, among others.

Initially, Howler Custom Cycles opened with a more diversified business model.

In addition to repairs and customized motorcycles and parts, the shop sold trailers and all-terrain vehicles. In time, however, those items fell by the wayside, and the company found its focus in custom cycles.

Stenhouse attended the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology to become certified as a Harley Davidson technician. The school was the only one in Canada to offer the accreditation.

It was about seven years into the business that nearly 80 per cent of Howler clientele was coming from Alberta.

With business on the rise, Berezowski took his creations to trade shows and competitions in major cities in Canada and the USA. The artwork and craftsmanship of Howler custom bikes was recognized by fans and industry judges alike. Howler dominated the award scene. “ We h a v e n e v e r lost in competition,” said Berezowski. “We would win first, second, and third place from the panel of judges. But it was the people’s choice award that meant the most to us. When the people vote for

Shop dog, Caine, of Howler Custom Cycles in Kamsack is always up for a belly rub from customers. The business offers customers a variety of unique services and features. your work, it matters the most.

They are your customers.”

Berezowski mentioned that one of the Howler custom bikes, sold to Danny Koker of History Channel’s Counting Cars, was eventually bid on at a celebrity auction in Las Vegas. The celebrity who purchased the bike remains unknown to this day. The company has been featured in numerous publications, including Hot Bike Magazine, which has recently ceased printing. “We have seen so many trends come and go over the years,” said Berezowski. “The oil recessions in Alberta have

had a big effect on business.

Most of our current clientele is from Saskatchewan.”

While the ebb and flow of consumer trends has an effect on sales, Berezowski said Howler survives the lows by offering services that utilize their unique skills. Shop services include: custom welding, TIG welding, metal fabricating, powder coating, custom media blasting, and sand blasting to remove any type of rust and old paint.

“We also ship custom parts just about everywhere,” said Stenhouse. “We have a [sales] rep as far as Abu Dhabi.”

A bike awaits Howler Custom Cycle’s artistic touch.

SHA continues to escalate response to COVID case surge The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) continues to escalate its response to COVID-19, using the Health System Readiness Plan to guide actions being taken to contain, delay and mitigate the virus. This includes the SHA’s system redeployment plan to identify services that will be slowed to support: • Additional staff needed to support a surge in testing and contact tracing; • Additional hospital staff needed to support increases in COVID hospitalizations and ICU admissions; • Additional long-term care staff needed to support staff cohorting and outbreak management; and • Responsiveness to situations where large numbers of staff are required to isolate due to being a close contact with a positive case.

To date, the SHA has been able to manage recent surges in hospitalizations and ICU admissions, largely through existing capacity

and adaptations to services, according to a release. These adaptations of services include the use of bypass procedures for high volume acute care units, use of surge spaces, the conversion of hospitals to COVID-only hospitals and temporary pauses on admissions and other acute care services in some areas.

Small reductions in surgical volumes have also been required in Saskatoon.

Despite being able to manage with limited impacts so far, high sustained caseloads in the last few weeks will lead to increased hospitalizations and ICU admissions in the days ahead and require the SHA to step up phased implementation of its surge plans. Examples of impact of current cases and the scale of the surge plan include: • Wi t h t h e f i v e - f o l d growth in COVID cases in ICUs in the last 30 days, province-wide ICU capacity is at nearly 100 per cent, with pressure points in Saskatoon

leaving only three available ICU beds in Saskatoon as of November 26.

• Surging to the forecasted peak will require the SHA to create approximately 200 more beds for COVID patients than currently exist in all the hospitals outside of Saskatoon and Regina combined.

• More than doubling of active contacts in the last month. Current surge plans call for the SHA to add staffing to enable effective contact tracing to 450 cases per day and possibly more.

Calculating based on latest data on average number of contacts, 450 cases per day would create 72,000 hours of work for contact tracers over a two-week time span, or an average of more than 5,000 hours per day.

“Scaling up on this level is a significant challenge, so we need the public’s help to ensure we do not face the exponential growth in cases going forward that would

strain our ability to scale up on the timelines required,” SHA CEO Scott Livingstone said. “As an example, surging our ICU capacity by 449 per cent means adding more ICU beds than there are in all four of Canada’s Atlantic provinces combined, all on an expedited timeline while operating under the extreme duress of the pandemic, illustrating the scope of our task if we do not get help from the public.”

SHA’s surge plans rely primarily on highly skilled and trained medical staff that cannot be sourced solely through the labour market, continued the release. That is why the SHA is working with the Public Service Commission on adding staff from the province and working with the federal government to add staff from Statistics Canada to the SHA’s contact tracing capacity. Targeted service slow-downs are also being identified for redeployment of staff to the priority areas

identified above in contact tracing, acute care, long-term care and other situations where the spread of COVID creates risk to SHA’s ability to continue providing essential services.

The decision to pause or reduce services on a local level will be communicated through the service alerts page at https://www. saskhealthauthority.ca/news/ service-alerts-emergencyevents/Pages/service-alerts. aspx of the Saskatchewan Health Authority website as well as through proactive communications locally, where appropriate.

The SHA has updated the Health System Readiness Plan at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/ health-care-administrationand-provider-resources/ treatment-procedures-andguidelines/emerging-publichealth-issues/2019-novelcoronavirus/pandemic-planning first developed in spring 2020 outlining the offensive and

defensive strategies being deployed by the SHA. With the recent surge in cases, the SHA is reminding the public that the primary factor in enabling the health system to meet the demand created by the COVID-19 virus is actions taken by Saskatchewan residents to stop the spread. Those actions include: • Physical distancing; • Washing your hands regularly; • Limiting your bubble as much as possible; • Abiding by all public health orders; • Wear a mask whenever you are in public indoor settings; • Stay home if you are feeling even the mildest symptoms as an increasing number of cases are residents going to work when sick; and • Download the Government of Canada COVID Alert App and use it to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Editor’s Note If you would like to write a letter to the editor, feel free to do so. What is required is the author’s name and signature attached, as well as a phone number where they may be contacted.

Mail your letter to: Box 746, Canora, Sask. S0A 0L0, Fax (306) 563-6144 or email to canoracourier@sasktel.net or simply drop it off at the office.

Page 6

Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Cross-country skiing gaining popularity The Preeceville Nordic Ski Club has been around for a few years and was kick-started by past founding member Lou Roste who had a passion for cross-country skiing.

The club utilizes the well groomed Preeceville Lions Family Trails that the Preeceville and District Lions Club has built up.

The trails are used for walking in the summer and in the winter a set of cross-country tracks are groomed into the snow on the trail for avid skiers and walkers to enjoy.

The Preeceville Nordic Ski Club started out with only a few families but has now gained popularity. “The club has had so many more people take an interest in skiing which I think is due to the COVID-19 isolation

Charis Maier of Preeceville had a difficult time the first time she tried crosscountry skiing. guidelines,” said Megan Maier, club member.

The Maier family have all been avid skiers and enjoy cross-country skiing. They not only ski for fun but have attended some competitions around the province.

“This year the interest has exploded in cross-country

skiing. People are starting to discover the beautiful trails hidden just on the outskirts surrounding the Town of Preeceville and the recent addition of the beautiful warmup shelter made by Lions members is wonderful. The Lions created the shelter in honour of Lou Roste,” said Maier.

Ray Bailey and Nathan Maier are instructors for the club and are encouraging children and adults to sign up for instructional classes or coaching of the proper techniques of cross-country skiing. The have both taken a coaches course and are both experienced.

“We are welcoming youth skiers (ages 4 to 18) to participate in our Preeceville Nordic Ski Jackrabbit club training group. We are meeting on

Mondays after school and Saturday afternoons. Join us this Saturday at 1 p.m. at the campground and beautiful new warmup shack for some fun skiing activities. You need your own skis and boots to join in the fun. Hope to see you on the trail.”

All COVID- 19 regulations will be followed.

Interested skiers may contact Megan at 306-5471349 or get in touch online or just show up.

“Skiing is a great way to get outdoors, exercise and still remain socially distanced.

It can be a solitude or group sport. It is a life long sport that anyone can do. The winter months are long and we might as well embrace it and take enjoyment from the snow. The trees along the trails are great

Families in the local area who are part of the Preeceville Nordic Ski Club enjoy cross country skiing along the well maintained Preeceville Lions Family trails. Photographed from left, were: Levi Maier, Erik Sandager, Isaiah Maier and Hudson Maier. for blocking the elements and it is a very fun experience,” said Maier.

Maier also stated that the

club does not have skis or equipment to rent at this time and this year it could be a difficult to find any available.

Remembering loved ones through a Memorial Tree “For many of us Christmas brings back many fond memories of times past that speak about how we celebrate this season and with whom we celebrated. When we think back, we often experience deeply held and felt feelings and emotions that fill us,” stated Reverend Miles Russell in last year’s memory tree lighting ceremony.

Individuals will have the opportunity to pay tribute to loved ones who have passed

on through purchasing a Christmas light bulb. The bulb will be placed and lit on a special memorial tree with names of loved ones who have passed away being acknowledged and recited in a lighting ceremony scheduled to take place in Preeceville on December 15.

The names of loved ones who have passed on will be represented by a lighted Christmas bulb on the string of lights on the tree located at

the south end of main street in Preeceville.

Social distancing and mask guidelines are to be followed.

To honour the memory of a loved one who passed away a bulb is available for $5 per bulb or three for $10.

They are available at the following Preeceville locations: Gateway Co-op, Home Hardware and Paul’s Drugs Store.

Funds raised will go towards the Preeceville Fire

Department “At Christmas time in Canada, it is a religious and spiritual celebration for some:

a family occasion for most, and a season of good will and giving for others in the community for many, across our

At the annual memorial tree lighting ceremony held in Preeceville in December 2019, the names of loved ones who have passed were represented by lighted Christmas bulbs on the string of lights on the tree. From left were Miles Russell and Kim Murray. This year’s ceremony is set for December 15.

land, regardless of their religion or culture,” said Russell in last year’s ceremony.

“Through the placing of Christmas bulbs on the tree in memory of people we love, we are remembering, honouring and keeping close to our hearts those we have loved who are no longer with us at Christmas or through the year. The symbol we use to remember our loved ones is the light on this Christmas tree,” continued Russell.

“The little light is the Christmas tree bulb which glows brightly and distinctly against the darkened night sky. It reminds us that the tiniest light has the power to push back the darkness in the world. So, too our love for others, our memories of those we love, shines a light that brightens the dark moments in our lives.

“The Christmas tree light becomes an appropriate symbol, for no matter how you celebrate Christmas, whether it is spiritually or religiously, secularly, family focused or community geared; Christmas is all about the light coming into the world,” concluded Russell.

Gift Subscriptions Get one year for $42 within 40 miles of Preeceville

Outside 40 64 miles km of of Canora...........................

Preeceville.............. $52.50 $42.00 B.C., Ont. & East...............................Call for pricing All prices include GST

Give the gift that keeps on giving, with a gift subscription to the Preeceville Progress.

Call now (306)547-2954 306-563-5131

To order by mail, please fill out and return the attached reply card.

Gift Recipient Information Name: _________________________________________ Mailing Address: ___________________________________ City: ________________ Prov: _____________________ Postal Code: ______________________________________

Please send cheque or money order for the full amount to: The Canora Courier PO Box 746, Canora, SK S0A 0L0

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Preeceville Progress

Page 7

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Whenever you’re looking for something special for Christmas or just a unique gift item for anytime, check out one of Saskatchewan’s best stocked liquor stores with an outstanding variety of beer, wine, rye and specialty spirits.

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PREECEVILLE MEMORIAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY and December 15th, End of Main Street, 7:00 pm PREECEVILLE Tuesday, a house to be decorated outside by the Rec Board, with a short essay as to why CHAMBER OF Nominate Deadline – December 4th, for more information call the Town Office 306-547-2810 COMMERCE Preeceville Chamber of Commerce thanks you for shopping locally.

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Page 8

Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Wyonzek’s dream of NHL officiating career getting closer Tarrington Wyonzek, who has ties to Canora and the surrounding area, has taken another step toward his goal of becoming an on-ice official in the NHL. Wyonzek, grandson of Henry and Anne Wyonzek of Canora and Victor and Vickie Puchala of Yorkton (formerly of Rhein), and son of Pat and Karen Wyonzek, found out recently that he has been chosen to work as a linesman at the upcoming 2021 World Junior Hockey Championship in Edmonton, scheduled for December 26 to January 5, assuming there are no changes due to COVID. The tournament is to take place in the same Bubble where the NHL held its games earlier this year.

Even though he has worked international tournaments before, Wyonzek said he was very excited to get the news.

“This is the big one, this is the tournament pretty much everyone pays attention to,” he said. “My family was quite excited for me, even though both my grandmothers were a little disappointed that I won’t be home for Christmas family gatherings.”

Wyonzek said his previous IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation) experience undoubtedly helped him land this new opportunity.

“I worked previously at the 2019 World Under-18 tournament in Sweden. I had a good tournament and was chosen for the gold medal game between Russia and the host team from Sweden.

The rink was sold out and the atmosphere was rockin,’ with Sweden coming out on top, 4

to 3 in overtime,” he recalled.

“Another factor in my being chosen was probably my professional experience.

This past season I worked full time in the AHL (American Hockey League) and ECHL (East Coast Hockey League).

This was working four to five games per week with players who are about 22 to 25 years old and battling for jobs.

They’re grown men, not kids, and it’s much different than junior hockey.”

Organizers for the Edmonton tournament are bringing in more officials than usual due to the uncertainty surrounding COVID, said Wyonzek.

“You never know when someone might get sick, or maybe European officials could have trouble getting flights to Canada.”

As is usually the case in IIHF tournaments, the onice officials for the play-offs and the gold medal game will be chosen based on their performance earlier in the tournament. Wyonzek said he has learned to appreciate this performance-based selection system.

“Every time you go on the ice you have to be ready. This tournament is so big for the players, we as officials can’t afford to make mistakes. But I think I perform better under pressure.”

Wyonzek said one of his favourite aspects of working as an on-ice official is learning to excel at communication.

“Communication is so important. In talking to benches, whether it’s coaches or captains, you need to deliver a message in a way they can

Tarrington Wyonzek, who has ties to the Canora region, has been selected as a linesman for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championship in Edmonton. He is seen here breaking up a fight in his first game in the ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) on October 12, 2019 in Greenville, S.C. when the Greenville Swamp Rabbits (dark jersey) battled the visiting Jacksonville Icemen (white jersey). -Photo courtesy MB Photography, Greenville, S.C. understand and at the same time doesn’t slow the game down. At the professional level, communication is how you gain trust.”

Before catching on with the AHL and the ECHL, Wyonzek worked as a linesman for six seasons in the WHL, one of the top rated junior leagues in the world.

“In the WHL, there were usually about 3,000 to 5,000 fans per game, depending on the city,” he estimated.

“But this past season I was in games with 10,000 to 12,000 fans in the rink. It’s a lot more intense and a lot more fun. I think it makes me better, too.”

In addition to the large

crowds, Wyonzek said he thoroughly enjoyed the travelling and seeing many unique cities in the southeastern U.S. “My favourite city I’ve seen down there is probably Norfolk, Va.,” he stated. “It has a big naval base, and our hotel was just off the harbour.

Seeing one of those big ships come in is really something.

I enjoy history, and Norfolk has plaques with names of soldiers with local connections who have served. It’s a nice way to spend time before a game.”

Wy o n z e k l i v e d i n Greenville, S.C. during his first season with the AHL and ECHL.

“The nice warm weather is amazing, especially after growing up in the cold winters of Saskatchewan.”

Prior to his IIHF experience, Wyonzek worked a number of significant North American tournaments, including the Traverse City, Michigan NHL Prospect Tournament prior to the 201920 NHL season.

“I worked four games at the tournament, which involved the top prospects from eight NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Minnesota Wild, New York Rangers and the St. Louis Blues,” said Wyonzek. “These players were trying to prove they belong in the NHL for the upcoming season, so the action was pretty intense.”

Prior to the cancellation of the 2020 Memorial Cup tournament, he patrolled the lines for the previous two Memorial Cup tournaments, a tournament for major junior players involving teams from the WHL, OHL (Ontario Hockey League) and QMJHL (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League).

“The 2018 tournament was unique because it was in Regina where I was living at the time, so I had many friends there,” recalled Wyonzek. “The 2019 tournament was in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which is a hockey-crazy city. Every game was sold out, even if the host team, the Halifax Mooseheads, wasn’t playing. I had the privilege of working the final game. It was as intense as any game gets,

even though the Mooseheads lost to Rouyn-Noranda of the QJMHL.” The WHL representative at the 2019 Memorial Cup was the Prince Albert Raiders, which was involved in another memorable game on Wyonzek’s résumé. He worked the seventh and deciding game of the WHL final for the right to go to the Memorial Cup, as the Raiders hosted the Vancouver Giants.

“I’ve worked a few game 7’s but this was one of the coolest, most exciting games I’ve ever worked,” said Wyonzek. “The rink was crazy all night and the home team won in overtime, so they all went even crazier.”

At the time of his conversation with Canora Courier, Wyonzek was living in Regina, before heading off to Edmonton for World Juniors.

“After that I’m hoping to get back to working in the AHL and ECHL, but the timing for that is so uncertain right now.

Every league has dates for games to resume, but that’s subject to change due to the COVID situation.”

Wyonzek said during the COVID pandemic he stayed busy by working a number of games recently in southern Saskatchewan, including for the SJHL (Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League).

“It’s weird with so few fans, or even no fans in the stands,” he admitted. “But for the most part, everyone just appreciates the opportunity to have hockey again.”

Wyonzek is hoping his World Junior assignment gets him closer to his long-term goal of working in the NHL.

Winter weights begin on certain secondary highways On November 27 at 12:01 a.m., winter weight season began for a number of secondary highways in Saskatchewan.

“Winter weights allow trucks to carry more cargo in Saskatchewan, which is a benefit to the trucking industry and shippers,” said Joe

Hargrave, highways and infrastructure minister in a release.

When a roadbed is frozen, secondary weight highways have the same strength as primary weight highways, which support the heaviest legal loads on Saskatchewan roads. Winter weights are put

in place annually from about mid-November to mid-March.

Typically winter weights allow truckers to carry up to 15 to 20 per cent more payload on secondary highways.

When temperatures rise and roadbeds remain soft, the ministry may remove

By Shawna Hickling, Calgary, Alta.

Rural Municipality of Keys No 303 PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN Notice is hereby given that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 2nd day of February, 2021, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) on The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel Total Arrears

Cost Advert

Total Arrears/Costs

Part of Lot Part of Section

Lot Sec

Blk Twp

Plan Rge

SW pt

26

32

3

2

124745463

$14.74

$27.00

$41.74

NW

10

32

2

2

153283585

$2,034.12

$27.00

$2,061.12

4H

H

77Y07243

2

142897157

$236.65

$27.00

$263.65

25

33

4

2

144645116

$9,115.55

$27.00

$9,142.55

58

1

88Y11580

2

144098028

$3,198.86

$54.00

$3,252.86

SE

Meridian

Title No.

truckingweights.

To find the latest road restriction orders online, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, or on Twitter @ SkGovHwyHotline and look for #skweights or call the Hotline at 511.

For technical and regulatory information, commercial carriers can contact the Inquiry Line weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-866-9335290 in Saskatchewan or 306-933-5290 outside the province.

T’was a Month Before Christmas 2020

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

DESCRIPTION PROPERTY

winter weights in some areas. Restrictions on winter weights can be in effect until mid-March, weather permitting. Commercial truckers and shippers are encouraged to check the status regularly at www.saskatchewan.ca/

144098040 NW

18

33

3

2

136516428

$1,268.35

$27.00

$1,295.35

SE

33

33

1

2

144325818

$3,824.58

$54.00

$3,878.58

SW

23

32

3

2

141694016

$1,258.41

$27.00

$1,285.41

SW

35

32

1

2

145510650

$566.64

$27.00

$593.64

SE

6

32

1

2

129090696

$5,616.43

$27.00

$5,643.43

Dated this 2nd Day of December, 2020 Barry Hvidston, Administrator

T’was a month before Christmas, And all through the town, People wore masks, That covered their frown.

The frown had begun Way back in the spring, When a global pandemic Changed everything.

They called it corona, But unlike the beer, I t d i d n ’t b r i n g g o o d times, It didn’t bring cheer.

Contagious and deadly, This virus spread fast, Like a wildfire that starts When fueled by gas.

Airplanes were grounded, Travel was banned.

Borders were closed Across air, sea and land.

As the world entered lockdown To flatten the curve, The economy halted, And folks lost their verve.

From March to July We rode the first wave, People stayed home, They tried to behave.

When summer emerged The lockdown was lifted.

But away from caution, Many folks drifted.

Now it’s November And cases are spiking, Wave two has arrived, Much to our disliking.

Frontline workers, Doctors and nurses, Try to save people, From riding in hearses.

This virus is awful, This COVID-19.

There isn’t a cure.

There is no vaccine.

It’s true that this year Has had sadness aplenty, We’ll never forget The year 2020.

And just ‘round the corner The holiday season, But why be merry?

Is there even one reason?

To decorate the house And put up the tree, When no one will see it, No one but me.

But outside my window The snow gently falls, And I think to myself, Let’s deck the halls!

So, I gather the ribbon, The garland and bows, As I play those old carols, My happiness grows.

Christmas ain’t cancelled And neither is hope.

If we lean on each other, I know we can cope.

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Preeceville Progress

Page 9

Throwback Thursday: From the Preeceville Progress files (EDITOR’S NOTE: Dates listed refer to publication dates not the dates of the events.)

the Navy, Army and Air Cadet Leagues of Canada had the Sturgis Army Cadet Corp parading at the Sturgis Composite School.

December 12, 1974- A committee was formed at Sturgis to proceed with the organizing a Donors Choice Appeal.

December 10, 1970Steps were taken to develop and preserve the two Fort Pelly Museum sites.

October 2, 1975Observation of National Cadet Week sponsored by

D e c e m b e r 11 , 1 9 7 5 Marion Milette of Preeceville was the first women to be

October 5, 1972- Mayor John Koroluk cut the ribbon to officially open the Sturgis Florist premises at Sturgis. Holding the ribbon was Mrs. Josie Holmberg.

October 7, 1971- Two grain elevators, one in Okla and the other in Hazel Dell were closed October 1.

Both elevators were owned by Federal Grain Ltd. Kim Nelson (centre) of Okla, grain buyer at both locations for three years has been transferred to Runnymede where he will be in charge of three elevators. The elevator at Okla was built in 1949 and Bill Schrader, district farmer made the first delivery. The last delivery was made by Ed Olszewski of Okla. The elevator at Hazel Dell was built in the late 1930s. Pete Biyak of Hazel Dell recorded the last delivery.

elected to the Sturgis Unit board.

engine aircraft made a forced landing on his way to Regina.

November 30, 1967Mayor Pozium of Sturgis who pilots his privately owned two-passenger single

September 21, 1967- Ed Paul was master of ceremonies for the Town of Preeceville Centennial.

October 13, 1977- Among those attending the Preeceville Rail abandonment meeting were: (left to right) Vi Holte, Steve Gulka, Lorne Nystrom member of Parliament, Mayor Dave Slinn, Steve Kardyanl and Jim Feeley.

October 4, 1973- Among those attending the Girl Guide training at Yorkton were Mrs. Jeanne Butler (left) and Mrs. Lila Duff (right) both guiders of Preeceville. With them is Mrs. Mildred Baldwin of Yorkton.

December 9, 1976- An incubator with a capacity of 31,440 eggs was taken by a semi-trailer to the Weyburn hatchery from the Dairy Producers Cooperative at Preeceville. The Preeceville hatchery had been in operation from 1952 to 1974 when it closed due to a shortage of eggs and too short a season for egg shippers, Bill Prystay, manager of the creamery had said. Part of the wall of the creamery had to be removed in order to move the incubator.

Canora Ospreys: 2020 activity update

by Oney Pollock and Thom Carnahan, Yellowhead Flyway Birding Trail Association members The Canora osprey nest is located on top of a utility pole safely enclosed on the property of the Canora Water Treatment Plant. This town property is surrounded by a chain link fence.

To drive there from the south, proceed north on Highway No. 9 in Canora, cross the railway track, watching both ways for trains, and take the first right, turn east onto Whitesand Drive.

You will now be on a good gravel road. Continue for exactly four kilometres to the unsigned water treatment plant on the right.

While on self-isolation from COVID-19, on April 9 we went for a ride and paid a first visit to the osprey nest on the bank of the Whitesand River east of Canora. No osprey was seen but a mature bald eagle was in a nearby

tree, possibly interested in fishing since the river was beginning to open. We appropriately kept more than two metres from the great bird.

We also saw several turkey vultures flying around the area. The fishing season for the resident walleye and jack fish in the Whitesand River had not yet officially reopened either.

The osprey is also known as a fish hawk because it is a hawk that eats mainly fish.

Like the loon, it is considered to be an indicator species in that if there are few fish and/ or the environment is not adequate, they will not stay.

T h e w e s t e r n o s p r e y, Pandion haliaetus, is a fisheating bird of prey with a wide range. It is a large raptor, reaching more than 60 cm in length and 180 cm across the wings, a bit smaller than an eagle. It is brown on the upper parts and predominantly greyish on the head and under parts. The osprey tolerates

a wide variety of habitats, nesting in any location near a body of water providing an adequate food supply. It is found on all continents except Antarctica, although in South America it occurs only as a non-breeding migrant.

On April 26, we saw two small heads in the nest! The parents’ names are George and Susan; we don’t know the names given to the two offspring.

We visited the nest site at least weekly throughout the summer. We often saw two little heads; and, always one adult on the nest, watching over them. On one visit we witnessed a parent bringing, in its talons, a streamlined, head first, two-pound sevenounce jack fish which it deposited into the nest.

On August 20, we noted a chick had fledged. A second one fledged August 24. On August 23 we saw all four at the same time and on August 25 we saw two birds on the

nest. We saw one Osprey on a nearby tree on August 29.

There is a minor dirt road just beyond the plant. Turn right and you can get your vehicle within one hundred feet from the nest. This is a great location for photographers if they have telephoto capabilities. The ospreys are very accustomed to people and will co-operate for picture taking, complete with an avian version of “pose and beak-smile” lucky chance.

We visited most days after fledging and would often see one or two birds on or near their nest. September 6 was the last date we have seen our Canora ospreys. A disconcerting issue is that at the spots along the river you can see the rocky river bottom.

The weir below the nest no longer flows. Rocks project downstream presumably due to infrequent rainfall this past spring and fall, and due to a deficit of snow in the past few years.

January 25, 1979- Greg Beatty, newly elected president of the Sturgis branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation presented a cheque for $500 to Wayne McDonald principal of the Sturgis Composite High School to help defer the costs of the new archery equipment purchased by the school.

October 9, 1975- Adolf Urbanoski and Russ Robertson of Sturgis hauled in 41 trout at Squaw Lake when the annual fish harvest got under way.

In Loving Memory

Wasyl Stefanyshyn March 26, 1930 – December 2, 2016 Time slips by and life goes on, But from our hearts you’re never gone.

We think of you always, We talk about you too, We have so many memories But we wish we still had you.

Lovingly remembered by Victoria Stefanyshyn, Donna Hanslip, Darryl Luterbach, Treena Surowski, Todd Surowski and Matthew Surowski

Page 10

Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS SMALL ADS . BIG DEALS .

Phone 306-563-5131 or e-mail office.canoracourier@sasktel.net FARM SERVICES

COMING EVENTS

COMING EVENTS

25 Annual Irrigation Saskatchewan Online Conference Dec. 7,8,9 th

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HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS! The global COVID-19 pandemic means learning how to SPOT fake news has never been more important.

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COMING EVENTS The Ukrainian Catholic Ladies are taking bookings for donuts and Christmas baking trays. Tray of 25 pieces $15, tray of 50 pieces $30.

Also for sale rice and buckwheat cabbage rolls, baked perogies and perogies. Phone 306-547-5516 or 306-547-2998.

THE

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Hosted By Saskatchewan Irrigation Projects Association; and Irrigation Crops DiversiÀcation Corporation Registration at Eventbrite Agenda includes: Provincial irrigation Expansion Plans Discussion on the BeneÀts of Irrigation 2020 Irrigation Research Projects For info: email sbathgate.sipa@sasktel.net or call 306.796.4727 www.irrigationsaskatchewan.com IRRIGATION MAKES SASKATCHEWAN GROW!

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS 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. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

PRAYER CORNER Preeceville-Sturgis United Church Pastoral Charge Rev Miles J. Russell Phone 306 547-2059 or 306 548-2097 Grace United Church, Sturgis Sundays 9:30 a.m.

Trinity United Church, Preeceville Sundays 11:00 a.m.

(Gov’t Health & Worship Guidelines in place) Online Worship Service Every Sunday 11 a.m.

(Available on Preeceville-Sturgis United Church Pastoral Charge Facebook Page) December 6 White Gift Service December 8 Blue Christmas Service Trinity United Church - 7 p.m.

Not online

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PRAYER CORNER ST. PATRICK’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Box 629, Sturgis, S0A 4A0 Phone: 548-2042 Pastor Fr. Michal Pajak, O.M.I. Tuesday, Dec. 1 Mass 9 a.m.

First Friday, Dec. 4 Devotions 6 p.m.

Mass 7 p.m.

First Saturday, Dec. 5 Mass 9 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 6 Mass 9 a.m.

FARMLAND WANTED I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISISONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT Adult 45+, renovated 1-bedroom suites in Canora. Must have references. Phone 306-641-2489.

FEED & SEED

UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Rev. Joakim Rac Phone: 563-5148 Saturday, Dec. 5 Canora 5 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 6 Canora 9 a.m.

Canora 11 a.m.

FOR SALE - MISC

Star City Meats Christmas Baskets Baskets Include: Sausages and Sticks in a variety of ÅH]V\YZ HUK HZZVY[LK cheese & pickles * Sausages may vary due to supply

Large: $95.00 Medium: $70.00 Tax included

Order by December 12th for Christmas!

Pick-up available between Dec. 12 - 23.

To place your oder call 306-863-3378 or 306-921-6488 BOSCH Mixers,Ankarsrum Mixers, VITAMIX blenders, LEFSE supplies & more FREE SHIPPING.¨† Call toll-free 1-888-692 6724¨† Hometech BOSCH Appl 375 Broad St, Regina www.hometechcanada.ca

HEALTH SERVICES

HIP/KNEE Replacement?

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $50,000 Lump sum refund.

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Expert Help:

1-844-453-5372

NORTH EAST PRAIRIE GRAIN INC. BUYING: FEED BARLEY, SOYBEANS, DAMAGED CANOLA. On Farm Pickup, Prompt Payment! PH: 306-873-3551 WEBSITE: neprairiegrain.com “In Business to Serve Western Producers” Wanted round bales, alfalfa brome hay, semi-load delivered. Phone 306-595-4707.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable.

Clean drivers abstract a must.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction )V_ (YIVYÄLSK :R : , ( " Fax: 306-769-8844 ,THPS! brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

Read the weekly

She finally got a date!

By Kaare Askildt It finally happened, Marion has a date with a c a n c e r s u rg e o n f o r a pre-surgery consultation on July 29 and the actual surgery is scheduled for August 5.

It has been a long haul for my sweetie, but she’s a trooper and has been battling it out, and her war on cancer will soon be over.

She was elated to get the news but also a bit scared because of the extent of the invasive surgery. She is confident that the surgeon knows what he is doing, although she did overhear a couple of fellas in the hospital cafeteria where one man was telling the other that he hates the feeling after surgery when you’re not sure if you’re awake or asleep, or if you operated on the right patient.

“What is surgery?” you might ask. I Googled it and found that the legal description states that surgery is a branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of injuries or disorders of the body by incision, manipulation, or alteration of organs with the hands or with instrum e n t s . S u rg e r y i s u s e d to treat a vast variety of diseases and conditions.

For example, it is one of the main treatments for cancer.

Ole and Sven met at Moe’s Bottoms Up Bar and Grille, and while enjoying coffee and St. Hallvard liqueurs they discussed the various strange laws in Canada.

“I’m glad we have the RCMP, various city police forces and local constabularies to maintain law and order in our society,” said Sven. “But there sure are some strange laws for them to police.”

“Did you know,” asked Ole, “that it is against the law to whistle in Petrolia, Ontario?” “ Ye a , I h e a r d , ” s a i d Sven. “It is to limit excessive noise between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. The law also bans yelling, shouting, hooting and singing at all times.”

“So much for hailing a cab,” said Ole, “and please tell me how would the owls know the hooting hours?”

“Did you say hailing a cab?” asked Sven,

“because in Halifax, Nova Scotia a taxi driver can’t wear a T-Shirt and he must wear shoes and socks at all times.” “ Wo w ! ” e x c l a i m e d Ole. “How about a jump suit with Sonny’s Racing Team emblazoned on the back? You think that will solicit confidence in the driver?”

Moe had overheard their conversation and asked to join them. He had a few sheets of paper with him. “ I c o u l d n ’t h e l p b u t overhear your conversation about strange laws,” said Moe, “so I Googled strange Canadian laws and it is interesting what I found.”

“Oh, OK,” said Ole, “please impart your newfound legal knowledge.”

“Apparently in British Columbia, it is illegal to kill a Sasquatch,” said Moe, “and neighbouring Washington State in the US has the same law.” “ Wo w ! ” e x c l a i m e d Sven, “sounds like there must be a lot of local west coast sightings of that elusive fantasy creature.”

“A current law in Alberta makes it illegal to paint a wooden ladd e r, ” s a i d M o e . “ T h e A l b e r t a G o v e r n m e n t ’s Occupational Health and Safety Code states that a person must not paint a wooden ladder.”

“Safety code?” asked Sven, “are they nuts? Do they mean that it is hazardous to paint a wooden ladder? What about an aluminum ladder? Is it OK to paint it?”

“The safety expert must have moved to Saskatchewan,” said Moe, “because in Fort Qu’Appelle it is illegal to walk down Main Street with untied shoes.”

Ole had grabbed the sheet listing all the strange laws in Ontario. “ D i d y o u k n o w, t h a t in Oshawa it is illegal to climb a tree?” said Ole. “It was probably enacted as a result of a rascal scaling a tree to get away from a donut munching cop,” said Sven.

“It gets stranger,” said Ole, “In Kanata it is against the law to have your garage doors painted purple.”

“Can’t advertise that Continued on Page 11

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Preeceville Progress

Page 11

Be careful when impersonating a foreigner Continued from Page 10 you’re a magician or a sorcerer?” asked Sven.

“You guys are not going to believe this,” said Ole, “but in Etobicoke it is against the law to have more than 3.5 inches (9 cm) of water in a bathtub!” “ Wo w, ” s a i d S v e n , “that means you can only blow bubbles with your butt!”

“You can always fill the rest of the tub with milk,” said Moe.

“Pasteurized?” asked Sven.

“No,” answered Moe, “only up to your neck.”

“This one I agree with,” said Ole. “In Toronto it is against the law to swear at your mother in public.”

“What about your m o t h e r- i n - l a w ? ” a s k e d Sven, “is she fair game?”

Sven had the sheet listing all the strange laws for Quebec and the Maritimes.

“Speaking about swearing,” said Sven,

“in Quebec City it is against the law to swear in French.”

“But one can swear in English?” asked Ole. “Not if you’re French,” said Sven, “because in Quebec it is against the law to impersonate a foreigner.”

“The Quebecers must be careful when sprucing up their abodes,” said Ole, “because in Beaconsfield you risk a heavy fine if you have more than two colours of

paint on the outside of your house.”

“At least they are free to choose the colours,” said Moe. “I sure am glad that we have proper dispute resolution procedures in Canada,” said Moe, “because it is still illegal to challenge someone to a duel or accept an invitation to a duel.”

“Some people might throw a stink bomb at the house of a foe instead of a duel,” said Moe, “but

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under the criminal code of Canada it is illegal to ‘Offend a place with bad

smell’ so the stink bomb might cause you to end up in the cooler.”

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Town of Preeceville ANNUAL EVENTS & ACTIVITIES Mushers’ Rendezvous weekend- March in February Snowmobile Trails- 1st - January Snowmobile Trails - January – March Community 2020 Old HomeGarage Week Sale - July- 9May – 15,30,2017 Old Home Week -- July Western Weekend July 514,- 11, 15 &2020 16, 2017 Canada 150 Celebration - August & 6,2020 2017 Western Weekend - August 21, 224,&523,

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Administration Offi Administration Office ce 239 Highway Highway Ave. E., Box 560, 239 560, Preeceville, Preeceville,SK SK S0A 3B0 3B0 Toll-free: 547-3116 Toll-free:1-877-706-3196 1-877-706-3196• Ph. Ph. (306) (306) 547-2810 547-2810 • Fax (306) 547-3116 Email: preeceville@sasktel.net Email: preeceville@sasktel.netororassistantadmin@sasktel.net edo.tourism@sasktel.net

Page 12

Preeceville Progress

Thursday, December 3, 2020

Story book walk provides outdoor learning and fun Children in the local area are having fun looking for stories in an outdoor setting. “A story walk is an unconventional, wonderful way for children of all ages to spend time outdoors whilst reading a book,� explained Tess Berezowski, community developer for Regional Kids First Yorkton Area 12.

Berezowski organizes and implements the story walks for surrounding communities. Pages from a children’s story are individually torn out and laminated, then positioned throughout an outdoor area for children and adults to stroll and enjoy.

Preeceville families had

the opportunity to walk Preeceville Lion’s Family Trail in the daytime or at night to enjoy the Robert Munsch story Deep Snow as solar lights were fastened to the wooden stakes that held up the book pages. Families who participated were able to take in an interactive learning experience, improve literacy skills, and spend quality time outdoors with loved ones. A scannable code was positioned at the beginning of the walk for a chance to win a literacy activity bag delivered to the winner’s door.

All information regarding upcoming story walks and literacy activities can be found on the Facebook page at Regional

KidsFirstYorktonArea12.

The book was to be taken down on November 27 and moved to another location in a different community.

They will be moved one to two times per month, according to Berezowski.

Regional KidsFirst community developers work with communities to enhance early childhood programs and services.

They meet with community groups and help them to find ways to improve local programs for children and families, as well as organize education and training around early childhood development. They help communities find funds for early childhood programs and keep a current directory

of available programs for children and families.

The goals of the Regional KidsFirstYorktonArea12 organization features healthy beginnings where children and families benefit from a strengthened focus on the first three years of life. Children benefit from high quality early learning environments, developmentally appropriate practices and engaging, supportive relationships in strong families. Families benefit from supports that help them be stable, nurturing and to raise healthy children. Children and families benefit from programs and services that are coordinated, integrated and aligned.

Sage and Adley Ward had fun finding and reading inserts of a story that was scattered through the Preeceville Lions Family Trail.

Bus drivers recognized for unsung service

T h e Pre e c ev i l l e S c h o o l S tu d e n t Re p re s e n t a t i ve Council acknowledged e a c h s c h o o l bu s d ri ve r during Education Week on November 23. Bus driver Mona Wiwcharuk, left, accepted a special gift from Kiera Balyski, SRC member.

Jerry Lisitza, left, a longtime Preeceville School bus driver was acknowledged during Education Week.

Makenna Petryshyn, S R C m e m b e r, m a d e t h e presentation.

L o re tt a Pre k a s k i , ri g h t , a c c e p te d a s p e c i a l g i ft during Preeceville School bus driver appreciation.

K i e ra B a lys k i m a d e t h e presentation.

Jim Prekaski, right, a Pre e c ev i l l e S c h o o l bu s driver, was acknowledged and received a gift from Makenna Petryshyn.

M a r ya n n e Ko p e ck , l e ft , accepted a special gift from Kiera Balyski during bus driver appreciation.

Saskatchewan commemorates Holodomor Memorial Day On November 24, the Province of Saskatchewan remembered those who perished during the Ukraine famine in 1932-1933.

Holodomor Memorial Day is recognized nationally on the fourth Saturday of November and this year fell on November 28.

“It is important to recognize historical tragedies like Holodomor, to honour those who have suffered and those who were lost,� said Nadine

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Wilson, SaskatchewanUkraine Relations Liaison, in a release. “By remembering the history of Ukrainians and shining light on their stories, we grieve the mistakes of the past and move forward embracing the Saskatchewan value of inclusion.�

This year, due to COVID-19, a private memorial took place outside the legislative building. Wilson laid flowers in honour of

the victims of Holodomor at the foot of the memorial statue in Wascana Park.

The statue, an exact copy of Petro Drozdowsky’s “Bitter Memories of Childhood� statue, is a permanent reminder of this tragic genocide and was erected in Wascana Park in 2015.

In 1932 to 1933, the Soviet Union imposed a man-made famine that led to the untimely death of an estimated 10 million

people. Crops were seized in the midst of a record harvest and people were prohibited from leaving their communities in search of food. Holodomor means “extermination by hunger� in Ukrainian.

Saskatchewan was the first jurisdiction in North America to recognize this genocide with the passing of The Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) Memorial Day Act in 2008.

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Decorations bring holiday spirit to Preeceville Chris Halkyard, a Town of Preeceville employee, was busy putting up Christmas decorations around the Town for the Christmas season.