Preeceville Progress 2023-05-11

Crossroads plans changes to Sturgis branch

Crossroads annual meeting held in Sturgis

The Crossroads Credit Union reported on its yea r of change in the 2022 season at its annual general meeting and supper held at the Sturgis Community Hall on May 3. The meeting was originally schedule to be held April 19 but was re-scheduled due to inclement weather.

There were approximately 50 members at the supper meeting that was catered by Charlotte Chernyk.

During the meeting portion, board member Chris Balyski of Preeceville has appointed as monitor of the meeting.

Walter Ostoforoff,

Crossroads Board President, brought greetings from the board.

“The year 2022 can be summed up as a year of change and staff resilience,” stated Ostoforoff.

“Financially, Crossroads had a positive success year with dividends being allotted back to its members. We continued to invest in additional service delivery platforms in 2022. Our new online and mobile banking platforms along with a new user-friendly website were key in 2022. Our members have shown a growing preference for

‘Call before you dig’ remains important message

The Contractor Dig Safe Breakfast Program is a signature initiative of the SCGA’s Dig Safe Month in April.

A ‘Dig Safe Breakfast Program’ was hosted in Preeceville on April 26 and attracted approximately 58 registered participants.

The Contractor Dig Safe breakfast program is a signature initiative of the SCGA’s Dig Safe Month supported by 23 industry sponsors, and was held in communities across the province by the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA). A

total of 20 breakfasts were held through the month of April.

The breakfast was highlighted by four informational safety videos which covered various topics, including reminding workers of their rights and reinforcing the message to call to have underground infrastructure marked before doing any excavation work.

Elmer Hollinger, who is an operations manager with SaskEnergy in Yorkton and sits on the SCGA’s Public Awareness and Education

Committee, said while it remains important to reinforce the message to call before you dig, the situation is better today.

“The main focus was to provide positive safe digging practices and raise awareness of the importance of safe digging. The breakfast was open to everyone impacted by dealing with ground disturbances. We had representation from the Town of Preeceville, Department of Highways, general contractors, rural agriculture producers, electricians

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A ʻDig Safe Breakfast Programʼ was hosted in Preeceville on April 26 and attracted approximately 58 registered participants. The Contractor Dig Safe Breakfast Program was held in communities across the province by the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA). Elmer Hollinger, who is an operations manager with SaskEnergy in Yorkton and sits on the SCGAʼs Public Awareness and Education Committee, gave the presentation.

Q u e n c h i n g t h i r s t i n Quenching thirst in t h e co m m u n i t y a s t h e the community as the w e a t h e r g e t s w a r m e r weather gets warmer

Gemma Rudachyk, left and Maycee Johnson of Sturgis hosted a lemonade stand that sold doughnuts and lemonade in Sturgis on April 15.

Beef Club members kept busy in early 2023

It’s been a busy few months for the Kelvington 4-H Beef Club. Amber MacDonald and Amber Spray attend the Prairieland Youth Leadership Conference on February 4 and 5 in Saskatoon. They learned about utilizing leadership and technology. Amber MacDonald placed third in her presentation and received a $1,000 scholarship. “Overall it was a great experience for 4-H youth across the province,” said Hailey Spray, the club’s reporter.

The club speech day was held on March 2 at the Kelvington High School. There were a lot of great topics that ranged from My Dad, My Dogs to Learning about Agriculture. The top two members from each category moved on.

Kendra Ewen, Rebecca Spray and Hailey Spray attended the 4-H North East Ski Day on March 4 at Wapiti Ski Hill. “The weather was perfect and the snow was amazing, “ stated Hailey Spray.

The following day the club had a fun bowling evening in Kelvington that involved pizza. Members attended the 4-H Saskatchewan AGM in Saskatoon on March 18 and 19.

“Our voting delegates for District 42 was member Amber MacDonald and leader Krystal Spray along with Amber Spray

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as a visitor. There was a lot of discussion between regions and districts on what happened over the past year. Both Amber MacDonald and Amber Spray signed up to be North East Ambassadors.

Krystal Spray was nominated to the North East Board of Directors for 4-H Saskatchewan. There were lots of games, minute mentorships, an amazing banquet with guest speakers and a dance on Saturday for members to get to know each other,” stated Hailey.

The District Public Speeches were held on March 21 hosted by the Kelvington Grain Club at the Kelvington High School, Amber MacDonald (senior) Amber Spray (intermediate), and Hailey Spray (junior), moved on to Regional Public Speaking that was held in Drake on March 25. It was a tough competition, and Hailey Spray was the only one from the club to move onto provincials in Lloydminster on April 15 at the Lakeland College.

“I was competing against seven others in my age category from across Saskatchewan. Unfortunately I didn’t place in the top three, but made lots of memories and got lots of feedback from the judges,” said Hailey Spray.

Kendra Ewen and Morgan Sutter went to the Saskatchewan Beef Expo on March 31 to April 2 with their market steers and heifers to compete against animals from all over the province. Both members learned a lot from the seminars the Expo offered on the

weekend.

The club hosted its spring clipping day on April 7, “and the weather was awesome,” said Hailey. “Member’s learned how to properly judge, what makes up a cow’s placenta and members had the opportunity to touch a real specimen. We judged eggs and everyone brought some of their feed they give their steers and we got to judge that too.”

Members packed their gear, washed their animals and headed off to the Yorkton Spring Steer and Heifer Show on April 13-15.

“With all the knowledge we gained on the clipping day, we moved into the show ring to our first event, team grooming. All members did well. On the second day there was judging and the Jackpot Show. The last day featured the 4-H show competition of heifers and steers. All the members had a great time showing, and making memories,

even bringing home some show money winnings and placings in team grooming and judging with some great swag.

“Our club would like to thank everyone who supported our annual Langes Country Meats Fundraiser. We are also collecting bottles for our Giving Back To the

Community Initiative. Please contact any Kelvington 4-H Beef Club member if you have any bottles you would like to donate,” added Hailey.

Members are looking forward to attending the Beef Symposium Heartland Livestock in Yorkton on May 13. The

Snowmobile season wrapped up

The Rough Rider Snowmobile Club reported that the snowmobile season turned out to be another great year with many avid snowmobile enthusiasts hitting the trails this season. All trails have been closed officially since April 5.

A new trail that runs from Endeavour to Valley Inn Shelter (North of Norquay) was opened this season and it’s a great addition to

our trail system, the club reported. The new trail runs along an Elk farm and snowmobilers are reminded to pay attention to the signs and to follow them, they are there for a reason. Limit speed and reduce noise signs are posted, as it’s spooking the nearby Elk and causing them to be injured. If this continues to be an issue, the club will be forced to close or re-route the trail.

CALL CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE and many others who are involved in ground disturbances,” said Hollinger.

Hollinger noted that at a recent breakfast event in Watson, he was told anecdotally that it was a very rare occurrence to call back in the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s.

Today, reputable contractors generally make the call, said

“Weather has been great this season. All our shelters have been fully stocked with wood and supplies. A huge thank you to our club members and volunteers,” said Sandra Johnson, club representative.

“There is always work to be done on the trails and shelters all season long. Work continues with maintaining and running the groomer, the trails, and shelters,” concluded Johnson.

Hollinger, who added it can be missed on occasion, and at times homeowners or farmers doing work on their own property will not call first.

It’s important to respect property of utility companies, so no attaching a new deck to a power pole, as was noted in a video shown Thursday.

When it comes to identifying where underground lines might be located, it starts with

a simple call to Sask 1 st Sask 1 st Call is a service for anyone planning to dig or excavate. The service provides underground facility screening and notification for excavators. The Sask 1 st Call team is dedicated to the prevention of unnecessary damage, injury or death due to unsafe digging practices.

So who should contact Sask 1 st Call?

Kelvington 4-H Beef Club

Achievement Day is June 24.

“Watch our club’s Facebook page for more details on purchasing some quality 4-H raised beef and supporting our club’s hard work over this past year,” concluded Hailey Spray.

That includes anyone who is panning to dig, excavate, or otherwise disturb the ground; commercial or residential. The call should be part of a work plan that includes things such as: identifying any equipment, personnel, permits or approvals required, looking for facility signage and other signs of ground disturbance, and developing an emergency response plan.

Members of the Kelvington 4-H Beef Club who participated in the Yorkton Spring Steer and Heifer Show on April 13-15, from left, were: (back row) Kendra Ewen, Tarynn Sutter, Kaelen Sutter, Morgan Sutter and Amber Spray and, (middle) Jakob MacLean, Rebecca Spray, Hailey Spray, Amber MacDonald and, (front) Karlie MacDonald, Hunter Lindholm and Dawsyn MacLean.

Hailey Spray, middle, of the Kelvington 4-H Beef Club placed first in the Regional speaking competition in Drake on March 25 to advance to provincials that were held in Lloydminister on April 15.

Amber MacDonald, left, and Amber Spray, members of the Kelvington 4-H Beef Club, attended the 4-H Saskatchewan AGM in Saskatoon.

Chris Johnson and his daughter Maycee helped to put out and take down signs along the Roughrider Snowmobile Clubʼs trails this season.

High-speed chase ends in foot race to a residence

BY SGT. DEREK FRIESEN Canora RCMP

Detachment

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP responded to 40 calls from April 27 to May 4, including: two 911 Act calls, four assaults, two break-and-enters, one dangerous driving, one flight from police, one mischief, one harassing communications, one impaired operation, two Mental Health Act calls, one mischief, two other provincial calls, one theft, 11 traffic offenses, three traffic collisions, one resisting arrest, three suspicious persons, one Trespassing Act call, two wellbeing checks, and four prisoners.

High-speed chase

On April 27, the Canora/Sturgis RCMP were investigating a 911 hang-up call when a vehicle was observed travelling down Main Street in Canora at a high rate of speed. Police attempted to stop the vehicle by activating the police vehicle emergency lights and siren, however the driver refused to stop and sped up. The driver accelerated away and hit a dip in the road, causing sparks to fly from under the vehicle. Police located a female exiting the driver’s seat of the vehicle a short distance away. The driver attempted to elude police by entering

a residence and trying to shut the door. The female was arrested and charged with flight from police, impaired driving, refusing to provide a breath sample, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and resisting arrest.

Helping after fall

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP assisted EMS on April 28 with a female whom had fallen and needed assistance getting back up outside a residence in Canora.

Who’s at fault?

The Canora/Sturgis

RCMP received a phone call from a male who reported being assaulted in Preeceville on April 29. Police received a

second phone call a short time later from the suspect who now wanted to report the original complainant for assault. Police determined alcohol was a factor in both complaints.

Farm thefts

On April 30, the Canora/Sturgis RCMP investigated a report of a break-and-enter at a rural property in the RM of Good Lake. Police learned a catallactic converter was stolen along with fuel and parts from vehicles and a shed.

Residential disturbance

The Canora/Sturgis RCMP were dispatched on May 1 to a disturbance at a residence in Canora.

Police were told a male had assaulted another occupant in the home. The male was located the following day and charged with assault.

Stove fire

The Canora/Sturgis

RCMP were dispatched on May 1 to a stove fire in Canora, however by the time police arrived, the fire had already been extinguished by the home owner.

Fighters arrested

On May 2, the Canora/ Sturgis RCMP were dispatched to a report of a fight between two males outside a residence in Sturgis. Police attended and arrested both males. Police continue to

investigate. Report tips and information

If you have any information about these or any other crimes, or any substances involved in these incidents, please contact the Canora RCMP at 306563-4700, or you can also report anonymously via Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (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).

Catholic executive installed for Preeceville and Sturgis

The Catholic Women’s League of Preeceville and Sturgis Councils celebrated their patron saint feast day on April 26 and also elected a new

executive council.

Executive members for Preeceville and Sturgis Councils of the Catholic Women’s League of Canada are:

Sturgis- Barb Buccum, president; Lillian Smith, vice-president; Cecilia Sliva, treasurer; and MarieAnn Suknasky, secretary.

Preeceville- Nellie Knikniski, president; Kathleen Pitt, treasurer and Norma Appel, president-elect.

Executive council

members were installed during the Eucharist celebration at St. Patrick’s Church on Sunday, April 23.

The councils were

celebrating their patron saint feast day which falls on Wednesday, April 26 and parishioners were treated to a special CWL theme-decorated cake.

The members of the Catholic Womenʼs League of Canada, Preeceville and Sturgis council members from left, are: (back row) Amy Galiz, Barbara Wagar, Marcia Yagelnesky, Natasha Lingl, Arlene Lingl, Kathleen Pitt, Cecilia Sliva, Leona Kowalchuk, Shirley Babchishin and Donna Balawyder; (middle) Geraldine Galiz, Bernice Schmidt, Marie Ann Suknasky, Lillian Smith, Fr.Andrew Sowa O.M.I., Bea Sekel, Shirley Woytas and Zita Serhan; and, (front) Nellie Knikniski, Barb Biccum, Amy Vargas, Norma Appel and Carole Hauber.

Executive members for Preecevilleʼ and Sturgis Councils of the Catholic Womenʼs League of Canada executive members from left, are: Lillian Smith, vice-president; Cecilia Sliva, treasurer;, Barb Buccum, president, all of Sturgis; Nellie Knikniski, president, Preeceville; MarieAnn Suknasky, secretary, Sturgis; Kathleen Pitt, treasurer and Norma Appel, president-elect, both of Preeceville. Executive members were installed during the Eucharist celebration at St. Patrick ʼs Church on Sunday, April 23.

Sturgis ball players excited for another season

All teams involved in the Sturgis Minor Ball organization were on the field for the first practice of the ball season on May 2.

There are 60 players registered for the four teams that are offered

this year. The T-ball group is coached by Meghan Hurlburt, toss ball is coached by Wes and Heather Jaeb, the 11U team is coached by Conrad and Kristen Peterson and the 13U team is coached by Ryan Coleman and

Stacey Boychuk. There are also five players in the U18 age group that have joined the Norquay team as there is not enough interest in Sturgis to have a team.

Practices are held every Tuesday and Thursday.

Practice has started for all Sturgis Minor Ball teams.

Brinley Robinson stood at home plate and practiced her batting skills during the Sturgis Minor Ball first practice of the season.

Justin Robinson helped Connor Prestie with positioning to practice his batting skills.

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

The Stenen Barveenok Ukrainian Dance Club members performed at their annual spring concert held at the Sturgis Composite School. The club celebrated its 35 years of traditional dance and was honoured when Pat Prokop , emcee, had one of the founding members , Lillian Steranka, open the program with singing O Canada in Ukrainian.

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The public’s assistance was requested in the investigation of a hit-and-run incident in Preeceville.

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The Preeceville and District Heritage Museum hosted the Seneca Root Association meeting that involved eight area museums. Museums represented included: Preeceville, Sturgis, Canora Station House, Canora Ukrainian Heritage, Fort Pelly-Livingstone, Melville, National Doukhobor Heritage Village, and Kamsack.

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The Sturgis Station House Museum opened the doors for another season with a special tea.

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The Endeavour branch of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation recognized its top hunters and fishermen at an awards banquet held in Endeavour. Wenzel and Michael Fialkowski handed out the awards.

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A number of students from the Preeceville and Sturgis Schools were among the top athletes at the Good Spirit School Division Showcase (indoor track meet) held in Yorkton.

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The Sunrise Health Region had gone from being the worst performer in the province in regards to sick time and wage-driven premiums to now being the second-best performer in the province.

Future looks bright for canola in Parkland region, amid global uncertainty The Ag Scene

Anyone doubting there is confidence in the future of the canola industry need look no farther than announcements made in Yorkton over the last few years.

Richardson International Limited announced a significant investment in their canola crush plant in Yorkton in 2021 to double its processing capacity to 2.2 million metric tonnes annually.

And now Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), has announced it will expand its canola crushing facility here.

The facility’s new capacity will be over two m illion metric tons, which is more than double its current capacity.

Simply put, that means a massive amount of canola will need to be consistently grown in the years ahead within hauling distance of the two Yorkton-based facilities.

Now that doesn’t ensure a reasonable return

CALVIN DANIELS

on the cost-of-production for farmers moving forward, but it does at least mean competition for canola with the plants situated roughly within a long stone’s throw of each other.

When it comes to the future of canola, like many things, the crystal ball is rather cloudy.

For example a couple of weeks back I wrote about plans stateside by Corteva Agriscience, Bunge and Chevron U.S.A. Inc. announcing a collaboration to produce winter canola in the southern United States. There is a belief there is potential to grow up to 10 million acres in that region within seven to

nine years.

Those new acres could be a game-changer in terms of canola supplies. There is the bio-fuels sector, which could absorb added production, but governments are rattling sabres in ways that could thwart growth in that area. German environment minister Steffi Lemke says she will soon send proposals to cabinet for the country to withdraw from the use of crop-based bio-fuel to achieve reductions in greenhouse gases.

And in the U.S. a recent government announcement indicated that country will subsidize its biofuel producers with a blenders’ credit,

but only for bio-fuels crushed or distilled in the United States. That is certainly a door closing for bio-fuel production in Canada with an export target of the U.S.A.

As usual, government protectionism can quickly muddy production markets.

And let’s not forget the Canadian government looking at whether fertilizer use mandates are needed.

While policy geared toward greenhouse gas emission reduction should generally be seen as positive, reducing fertilizer usage that would impact human food production and bio-fuel sources as well, should be far down any list in terms of new policy initiatives.

Ultimately, Yorkton is a beacon in terms of future canola interest, but it will not necessarily be a smooth road on the way to the commodity’s future.

The unique challenges of creating a thriving shade garden

“I can’t grow anything – my garden is too shady.”

Sound familiar? While a shady garden might mean that you can’t grow sun-loving tomatoes or peppers, it certainly doesn’t mean that it is beyond hope for anything else.

What plants are suitable for a shade garden? Certain perennials are a good start. My all-time favourite has to be the beautiful, elegant hosta. Hostas come in a wide variety – from demure, low growing hostas to the giant, crinklyleaved hostas. They range in colour from the new almostwhite varieties to chartreuse to variegated to blue-green. They are relatively slow growing but will provide years and years of beauty to your garden.

Ostrich ferns are always a favourite for shade gardens, providing good height and interesting foliage. They spread readily, so you can easily expand your plant inventory. And they are a very dramatic “statement” plant in a perennial bed. They are not prone to very many pests or diseases, but because of their long, delicate fronds, they can break easily in the wind, so you might have to do some housekeeping once in a while to remove broken stems.

Lily of the valley is a fragrant addition – it is beautiful right from the time it begins to come up in the spring. The leaves are swirled cones of delicate green, and the fragrance of the flowers is almost breathtaking. The flowers are dainty

PREECEVILLE PROGRESS AND STURGIS REVIEW

The

Garden Grapevine

DEBBIE HAYWARD

white bells on long stalks, and you should have just a few of these for the ethereal beauty and fragrance in your garden. They spread but are easily kept under control. Even once they are finished blooming, the sword-shaped leaves are a nice ground cover.

Variegated goutweed brings a splash of light to your shade garden; goutweed has green leaves with creamy accents and is a beautiful perennial. But goutweed spreads with wild, reckless abandon. One year, conditions were just right in our garden and the goutweed became a great, waving sea of leaves that threatened to engulf anything in its path. It completely drowned our hostas, and finally the only solution was ruthless digging with a spade. We dug half of it out and you could barely see the difference. So be warned! But on the

other hand, if you have a corner to fill, goutweed is up to the task!

Bergenia is an elegant looking plant, almost like a miniature rhubarb. It has thick, fleshy leaves about eight to 12 inches high, and blooms very early in the spring with dark rosecoloured flowers. There are no blooms later, but the plant is a valued addition because it adds interesting texture to your garden. Texture is always important to consider, because you can make a beautiful border totally out of foliage, and it’s every bit as interesting as one that is full of blooms. Look for different shapes and colours of leaves, and varying heights.

This weekend is Mother’s Day weekend. For those of us who have lost our mothers, it is a time of remembering. My dear Mom was a true gardener; I learned at her elbow as soon as I was able to walk, and I’m so grateful for those wonderful gardening times we always had together. It wasn’t even all about the gardening, it was about being together, working and talking and laughing. Gardening does that. I have to work at all the knowledge that came so naturally to Mom, but I was blessed to have such a terrific teacher. I will savor every memory like the scent of an exotic rose. Thank you for everything, Mom. Words can never say how much I love you! Have a special weekend and have a happy week in the garden.

The amazing story of Olaf and Bouncy

It was a few weeks after Easter and Little Casey was having a deep sleep where she dreamt that she was reading about Bouncy the Easter Bunny in her pappa’s story when suddenly Olaf, one of Santa’s North Pole elves, appeared in her dream.

He had just jumped out of pappa’s last Christmas story. Olaf looked around rather confused and took a step back when he saw Casey, who was smiling at him. In her dream Olaf eased himself a little closer to Casey, who told him not to be scared because it is just a dream. She had no sooner said that when they heard a pop and Bouncy appeared sitting next to Olaf. Casey introduced them to each other.

She smiled at Olaf and asked him how he came to be visiting her. Olaf told her that he had been wandering around in pappa’s story but got lost and must have skipped

a couple of pages, which brought him to Casey because pappa loved writing about her. Then she asked Bouncy how he ended up in her dream.

Bouncy told her that after Easter was over, the big hothead of a rooster Beaky was fluffing his feathers and pushing out his chest, and chased him away from the henhouse. Bouncy had just thanked Henrietta and all the other chickens for their Easter eggs, and Bouncy had gone right up to the chicken wire fence thanking all the chickens for their contributions. Beaky paraded along the chicken wire taking all the credit. When Beaky charged, Bouncy made a great leap that took him right out of the Easter egg story and into Casey’s dream.

Together the three of them entered the enchanted forest to pick some beautiful

Observations

KAARE ASKILDT

wildflowers for Casey’s grandma. They were heading for gramma and grampa’s cottage to give the flowers to grandma while checking up on them. Ulf, that big bad wolf, watched them as they skipped along on the forest path. Ulf was licking his chops when he saw Bouncy, thinking that it would be an easy and delicious snack. Barney the bear never used socks because he has bear feet. He was in charge of keeping the peace in the enchanted forest, and when he saw Ulf eyeing Bouncy, he thought he better keep an eye on the situation, just in case Ulf had some

Get To Know A Staff Member

BY JAYLLE GAGNON

I wanted to get to know one of our staff members, and Kelsey Newman sparked my interest. Kelsey, or as the students at Sturgis Composite School know her, Ms. Newman, teaches Grades 10, 11, and 12 math, half of which she teaches to students in the district online. She is an experienced teacher, so I asked about her favourite part of teaching at Sturgis Composite School. “I enjoy the friendly atmosphere, it’s not stressful, the students are welcoming, happy, and engaging, and the staff is awesome.”

I wanted to know where Ms. Newman sees herself in the future, as she is on the countdown to her last year of teaching in a few years. Her reply didn’t come as a

surprise to me, “I have to be somewhere warm when it’s cold. If I can get my tan on all yearround? Yes. I want to be around my kids and future grandchildren.”

Ms. Newman is a busy lady, so I asked her what she likes doing in her free time. She told me,

“I like travelling and seeing different places, I like golfing, and I like coaching.”

To finish off, I wanted to know some things that she wants people to know about her, and she said, “Math is not just for nerds and family comes first over anything.”

sinister thoughts. They skipped past the Golden Pond, named for the golden water, where Hoppy the frog was happily sitting on his lily pad catching flies that bugged him with his long tongue.

“Croak!” said Hoppy, “Be careful in your travels and keep an eye out for that big bad Ulf, who is always looking for trouble. Sprinkle yourself with some golden water from the pond, it will mask your scent and throw Ulf off your trail.”

They all thanked Hoppy and splashed the golden water over themselves before continuing to skip down the path.

They ran into Dino next, an old Megalosaurus from the Jurassic period, who greeted them by blowing flames out of his mouth. Barney the bear was also the curator of the enchanted forest, and he introduced Dino as the sole survivor of the Jurassic Park. He was the son of Thesaurus, who was almost extinct, obsolete, defunct, lost, vanished and wiped out. Dino smiled at them, he suffered from heartburn and inadvertently expelled a loud woosh of flames from his mouth. He managed to stop the flames, looked at the others and sheepishly said, “Oops, I guess that could be called a blast from the past!”

Olaf used to take part in the reindeer games at the North Pole, riding Blitzen in the famous Reindeer Gallop. He smiled at Dino and asked if he could jump on his back and ride him around

a little just for fun. Dino lowered his head down to the ground and told Olaf to climb on to his head, whereupon Dino raised his head and Olaf slid down to Dino’s neck. Dino, with Olaf riding on his neck, followed Casey and the others to gramma and grandpa’s cottage. Gramma was very pleased with the visit and greeted all with home baked cinnamon buns. Olaf slid off Dino’s neck, hugged gramma as a thank you, then laid his finger along his nose and poof! He disappeared back to the North Pole. Dino excused himself and blasted his way back to his cave. Bouncy took a giant leap and disappeared. Barney walked Casey back to the enchanted forest entrance, shook her hand with his bear paw, gave her a hug and a kiss on her cheek, and Casey woke up from her wonderful dream.

Local student working toward becoming a teacher

Shae Peterson of Sturgis, who is enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts program at the University of Saskatchewan, job shadowed Cary Franklin at the Preeceville School for a two-week work experience program from May 1 to May 12.

Peterson grew up and graduated from the Sturgis Composite School in 2021, and has completed his first two years at the University of Saskatchewan. The work experience program is a mandatory program that each two-year students have to do as part of their continued education. While at the school he was exposed to teaching techniques, how to

Shae Peterson of Sturgis, who is enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts program at the University of Saskatchewan, job shadowed Cary Franklin at the Preeceville School for a two-week work experience program.

deal with students, and creating new ideas.

He is currently working towards a teaching certificate, majoring in physical education

and is hopeful that he can attain a job in rural Saskatchewan upon the completion of his Bachelor of Education certification.

Saskatchewan students can now register for online classes

SASKTODAY.CA

Saskatchewan educators from around the province have shown strong interest in working for the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC), with more than 500 employment applications being received by the province since recruitment began one month ago.

There have been 129 educator, superintendent and principal positions already filled and an additional 30 teaching vacancies remain open. Employment opportunities are available at the main campus in

Kenaston as well as the nine regional campuses located in the communities of Estevan, La Ronge, Moose Jaw, Neilburg, Nipawin, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Swift Current and Yorkton.

In addition to the teaching positions, there will also be a number of student support staff hired for each regional campus location. Support staff will provide direct support to Sask DLC students, whether it be in person or online. There are also a number of positions to be filled for corporate service roles in finance,

information technology, human resources and communications.

Saskatchewan kindergarten to Grade 12 students who want to learn online through the new provincial online school can now register for classes at www.saskdlc. ca. Students may choose to attend on a part-time or full-time basis, depending on what options work best for them.

As with in-person education in Saskatchewan, there is no cost for students under the age of 22.

Students who register with the new school will

be connected to their local school division, allowing students to access local supports and activities such as speechlanguage pathologists and educational psychology assessments. School divisions will also provide student activities such as driver’s license training, graduation ceremonies and extracurricular activities, including arts and sports.

There will be more than 180 online course options covering all core requirements for each grade, and including many exciting high school electives such as

agriculture and sustainable food production, communications media, creative writing, drafting CAD, financial literacy, hairstyling and esthetics, law, mental wellness, photography, psychology and wildlife management, among others. The Sask DLC is expected to be fully

operational and commence classes in the fall of 2023.

Students who have questions or would like assistance registering, or teachers and support staff looking for assistance in applying, can contact the Sask DLC at 306-252-1000 or email helpdesk@saskDLC.ca.

Kelsey Newman is a teacher at the Sturgis Composite School.

Preeceville School encourages parental involvement with students

The Preeceville School hosted an open house evening on May 3 that encouraged parents and family to take a vested interest in their students’ lives and the school.

Parents were treated to a visit of their child’s classroom that showcased their hard work. There was also a book fair in the library that saw Declan Cook winning the Family Event door prize of $25 in books for his home library and $25 in books for his classroom. Carter Moekerk correctly guessed

the right amount of gummies in a jar and won the gummies and a book of his choice.

The Preeceville School is once again selling community calendars with proceeds going towards the outdoor space and playground school project. They are encouraging interested individuals who would like a calendar to contact the school.

The SRC is beginning its major fundraising campaign for this year. They are selling raffle tickets on many wonderful prizes

donated by community sponsors. Because of the generous spirit of these businesses, the SRC will keep all profits to fund student experiences that happen outside of the regular classroom curriculum, such as: transportation, uniforms, fun days, SRC projects and co-curricular presentations/trips, and so on. The school aspires to provide students with positive social, cultural, and academic experiences that go beyond the classroom. A portion of the proceeds

will also be dedicated to the outdoor space/playground project.

1st Prize: Pelican Kayak (sponsored by Gateway CO-OP and Barsby Farms)

2nd Prize: O’ Brien Kona Paddleboard (sponsored by Going Wild Outdoors and R.M of Preeceville)

3rd Prize: Hanging Basket Lounge Chair (sponsored by Twilite Tire, Preeceville Parts, Paul Farms and Dyky’s Pipeline Services Ltd.)

4th Prize: Happy Hop Shark Cave Adventure Airflow Water Slide

(sponsored by Preeceville Agencies)

5th Prize: Pit Boss Sportsman Portable Tabletop 2-Burner Grill (sponsored by Taiga Technologies)

The school also sold Panther clothing during the open house, and offered a game of bingo with books as prizes.

The junior volleyball team hosted a set of games in the gym followed by a sock hop.

At the Science room, Heidi Paterson hosted a seed library and plant

exchange. “The focus and goal of the exchange is to get others involved in growing their own food. The seed exchange is at no cost, all I ask is that you return some seeds back in the fall to continue sharing with everyone. Many of us start our own plants indoors and usually have too many, the plant exchange is a great way of sharing knowledge and plants. This is something new to the school and we are hoping that everyone can benefit from the program,” stated Paterson.

23052CC3

Heidi Paterson of the Preeceville School displayed many garden vegetables that were grown inside over the winter months using hydroponics during the Preeceville School Open House. She also hosted a seed/ plant exchange promoting and encouraging others to do their own planting.

Nicholas Chalupiak showed off his books that he picked out at the Preeceville School book fair.

Kim Dyky, left, and Laurie Antonichuk from the Preeceville School sold community calendars for 2024. The project is a fundraiser with funds allotted towards the outdoor space and playground school project.

Polish folk dance group captivates Rama audience

When planning their 100th anniversary last year, one of the items the St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Rama wanted to see was Polish folk dancing.

However, due to the timing – around Canada Day – the province’s only Polish folk dance group, the Regina-based Polonia Polish Folk Dance Ensemble, wasn’t available.

Yet that wasn’t the end of that idea.

“I was rather surprised when an email popped up from Daniel Smela [the ensemble’s president] just a few months ago, asking if we would be interested in a spring concert,” said Mary Kowalyshyn with the church. “Well,

needless to say, that didn’t take long for an answer.”

As a result, the ensemble performed at St. Anthony’s Hall on April 23.

Paulette Slopek, who served as the MC for the ensemble, said there’s been quite a connection between the ensemble and the church in Rama over the years.

For one, the ensemble used to be known as the St. Anthony’s Polish Dancers, based out of a Roman Catholic Church in Regina named after the same saint.

“My husband, Stan Slopek, who directs the adult group, he can remember coming here in the 1960s as a kid and dancing at that time in that community,” Slopek said. “We’ve known

Running low on fuel, time to drop in for a pit stop

The Preeceville Fire Department refueled the STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service) helicopter when it landed at the Preeceville Hospital on April 29.

about Rama for a long time and it’s just taken us a little while to be able to get here again.”

As well, one of the dancers was born in Rama.

Like its more well-known (in Saskatchewan) cousin, Ukrainian folk dancing, there are many different types of Polish folk dancing styles, coming from different regions of Poland.

The Polonia Polish Folk Dance Ensemble doesn’t limit itself to one style.

“We tried to get as many in as we can,” Slopek said. “We have a much more extensive repertoire than we’ll see today because we tried to limit the show today to about 80 minutes.”

Each style of dance is unique from the other.

“I would say it’s a bit like a fashion show because you have the dances, different music, different style, different costume.”

There were around 60 dancers performing in Rama, with ages ranging from four to 70.

“Folk dancing is a wonderful activity for people and for children,” Slopek said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Local firefighters working to prevent fires

The Preeceville Fire Department performed a controlled burn-down on May 2 by the old railway tracks in Preeceville on the south side to prevent the build up of old grass that could be easily started into a fire.

Treat

Eat-in or Take-out

BRUNCH: 9AM - 2PM

* Good Ham

* Sausages

* French Toast

* Schwartz Hashbrowns

* Pancakes

* Scrambled Eggs

* Cornmeal

SMORG: 4PM - 8PM

* Marinated Greek Chicken

* Oven Roast Potatoes

* Salt & Pepper Ribs

* 7 Grain Rice & Quinoa

* Cheezy Pasta

* Glazed Carrots

* Chicken Gravy

* Deep Fried Shrimp

Included: Dessert & Salad Bar CALL

Like its Ukrainian cousin, Polish folk dancing has different dances, costumes and music depending on which part of Poland it came from.

CROSSROADS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE these options with 71 per cent of transactions done online. The war in Ukraine has had some affect on Crossroads with uncertain financial times but we are looking forward to more stability in 2023,”

concluded Ostoforoff. Jeff Bisschop gave a brief Chief Executive Officer message.

“We saw that 2022 was a year of changes,” he said. “Significant work was done ensuring we were executing our Key Strategic initiatives. The

most noticeable was ensuring our branches create an environment that supports advice-based service and member experiences. Crossroads believes in putting its members first and is dedicated to tailoring its members at the confidence of its members. Crossroads believes in investing in its members and are making strides in the Saskatchewan agriculture field.

“In 2022, we saw a new mobile and online banking platform and a new virtual advice branch, a first for Crossroads which will be in operation by 2024. The Bank of Canada raised interest rates numerous times to combat inflation with the highest interest rates that we have seen since 2008. This last year has shown that Crossroads

is extremely adaptable and continues to embrace change, looking forward to meeting members’ ever-changing needs,” he concluded.

Ivan Peterson, board member for six years, officially retired and did not seek re-election. Shannon Leson was elected by acclamation in the Central District, Veronica Wilgosh was elected in the Northern district as she replaced Ivan Peterson. Jim Vewchar did not seek re-election.

Rhonda Fullawka gave the financial report for the 2022 year. She reported an increase from 2021 in members’ equity

of $338,796,646 and an increase in profit that saw a profit of $5.7 million that will see $376,346 going back to its members in patronage allocation.

Jeff Bisschop then answered questions from concerned Sturgis branch members, as the branch is turning into an advice centre and no longer offering across the counter services. After a heated discussion, many members appeared to leave the meeting feeling frustrated.

Board members in the three districts are, Central district, Arlette Bogucky, Calvin Homeniuk (reelected for 2023), Shannon Leson, Marcel Michaud

(elected by acclamation in 2023) and Betty Tomilin; Northern district, Chris Balyski, Veronica Wilgosh and Duane Karcha (elected in 2023) and in the Western district, Duane Sweatman and Murray Bottcher.

Dale Zubko, who served eight years on the Northern board and Walter Ostoforoff, who served the Central district board for 12 years, were presented with retired appreciation gifts.

Leanne Woloshyn, Risk and Compliance Offier gave a presentation on fraud that concluded the meeting portion prior to the draw for door prizes.

Crossroads Credit Union board and executive members at the annual general meeting held in Sturgis on May 3, from left, were: Jeff Bisschop, Chief Executive Officer; Walter Ostoforoff, Board President; Rhonda Fullawka, Financial, and Chris Balyski, Northern District board member.

Walter Ostoforoff of Canora, board president, was presented with a retirement gift from Crossroads Credit Union. Veronica Wilgosh, board member from the Northern district, made the presentation.

Dale Zuko of Preeceville, left , was presented with a retirement gift from Crossroads Credit Union by Veronica Wilgosh.

Crossroads Credit Union board members from the Northern district who were in attendance at the Crossroads Credit Union AGM, from left, were: Duane Karcha, Veronica Wilgosh and Chris Balyski.

Duane Sweatman was the only board member from the Western district at the Crossroads Credit Union AGM.

Crossroads Credit Union board members from the Central district who were in attendance at the Crossroads Credit Union AGM, from left, were: Marcel Michaud, Arlette Bogucky, Shannon Leson and Betty Tomilin.

Leanne Woloshyn, Risk and Compliance Officer, gave a fraud presentation at the Crossroads AGM.

The story of the Sturgis Credit Union (1939-1989)

Information provided by Eugene and Myrtle

Boychuk of Sturgis

The Sturgis Crossroads Credit Union had a meager beginning. Looking back proudly on half a century of progress, the Sturgis Credit Union, on Nov. 14, 1989, celebrated its 50th anniversary. Founded only two years after the passage of legislation that permitted the establishment of credit unions in Saskatchewan, it has a history of steady growth from a humble beginning.

The long years of the Great Depression had reduced Saskatchewan people to financial despair, but a small group of Sturgis men saw in the new legislation a means of rescuing their community. Through their foresight and optimism, the Sturgis Credit Union was formed. In the 50 years that followed, how many have cause to thank them for what they began on Nov. 14, 1939? The names of those ten incorporators, none of whom are alive today, are gratefully remembered: Anton 0. Marken; Alois Hauber; W. (Fred) Ganong; George Ganong; Christopher Reagan; John Reagan; Wesley Simes; Thomas P. Reagan; Bob Reagan; and Oscar Larock.

The Board of Directors at the time of incorporation brings to memory other names as well: A.O. Morken (president); Fred Ganong (vice-president)–replaced on his early death by Hugh Mitchell; Wm. L. MacNeill (secretary-treasurer); T. P. Reagan; Rev. Fr. Novak; and W. Simes. There seems to have been a Supervisory Committee as well (and we can thank the faithful memory of Father Novak for these names which were lost with the disappearance of the first Minute

Book): Sidney Thomas, John Wetterlund and Joe Rogstad. To understand the world of 1939, when the Sturgis Credit Union began, one turns to a newspaper item which appeared in 1964, the year of its 25th anniversary: “In these days of comparative prosperity,” so runs the Preeceville Progress clipping, one tends to forget the conditions that prevailed at the time credit unions were being organized in Saskatchewan. We were just emerging from the Depression years of the 1930s. Having ready cash was every man’s dream and no man’s reality; almost everyone’s credit rating was nil; most people spent their leisure hours watching interest pile up on their debts.

The Sturgis Savings & Credit Union was an attempt of people in this area to help themselves to a better financial life. Mr. Sidney Thomas, the 42nd member to join, tells a story that well pictures the times.

Lacking $5 cash (the amount of the membership fee), he was allowed to join by paying in the sum as circumstances permitted, a few cents at a time. He had little more than completed the payment when he became ill. He could not have handled the hospital bill (in Preeceville it was $2.50 a day then!) without the newly formed Credit Union which loaned him $30 on the only security he could produce--a cow. Said cow, he recalls, “was later marketed for just about the amount of the loan.”

Today, when we talk casually of millions, it is difficult to remember the 1930s when a few cents were hard to come by. Hugh Mitchel, who was drafted into credit union duty when only 20 years of age,

remembers lying awake nights worrying about the risks being taken by letting out $50 loans to certain members. It took courage and optimism to open a lending institution in those days. The signatures of 10 persons were required to start a credit union. The original membership in Sturgis was 36, and assets were, in keeping with the times, $415.98. When the 25th anniversary was celebrated in 1964, membership had risen to 419, and assets were $211,297.18.

Over the years, the Sturgis Savings & Credit Union expanded its scope to be part of a wider membership. The Stenen & District Credit Union, founded in 1947, eight years later than Sturgis, amalgamated with it on August 3, 1964 (shortly before the celebration of our 25th anniversary). Still later, on April 5, 1968, Sturgis amalgamated with the Canora Credit Union. From today’s perspective, one likes to look back again and again on the beginnings. Today we have a beautiful and functional building, officially opened on May 9, 1966 with 175 persons attending the opening ceremonies. Architect of the building was Leo J. Lubiniecki; Warren Holmberg was in charge of construction.

At the time, F. W. Bayliss was mayor of Sturgis. (One remembers that, since Sturgis became a town only in 1951, there was no mayor when our credit union began in 1939). Today’s mayor, W.G. (Bud) Morken, interestingly enough, is a son of A.O. Marken, one of the original incorporators.

Where was the business of the Sturgis Credit Union transacted in the early days? As Hugh Mitchell remembers it, the first office was in a little building beside the present

Legion Hall, situated on property now owned by Verne Poworoznyk. There, in makeshift surroundings, W. L. (Mac) MacNeill carried on the business of saving and lending for the first few years.

When MacNeill became town clerk (he was manager of the local telephone company too, and in his conscientious way performed other community duties as well), he was able to move only the current credit union files with him to the town office. The early records were of necessity left in the attic of the other building which then became the first Sturgis School Unit office. In late 1960, the pressure of work compelled MacNeill to give up the credit union books after more than 20 years of faithful service. Hugh Mitchell remembers that, meticulous worker though he was, MacNeill’s monthly salary had been only $50!

Martha Schoenke was then persuaded to take over management of the Credit Union. Like MacNeill, Martha was a person whose name usually came up in times of emergency–someone who could cope with books and management problems. In the early records Martha is referred to as secretary-treasurer, and later as manager. When asked when the change of position took place, she replied in puzzled tones that there appeared to be no difference in the duties of her office, whatever its title. It would seem that in those days the community expected much of those who served it, and they responded with a selfless dedication that is rarely found today. On Main Street, Martha owned and operated the book store which today belongs to Mike Wisoley. In 1960

she shared the building with Lou Gillespie who had a little Jewelry business. What Martha remembers most about the transfer was the difficulty of moving the Credit Union equipment from the small building that MacNeill originally occupied. An aged and extremely heavy safe presented special difficulties. To accommodate it after the problem of actually transporting so weighty an object, the floor of her shop had to be reinforced to ensure that the safe did not tumble into the basement.

Martha lived in the back of her shop. One night (she remembers it as probably 1962) she was wakened around 2 a.m. by a phone call from the police. They had alarming information. The Canora Credit Union, at that time operated by Fred Osatiuk from an elevator office, had been robbed. The police believed that the thieves were on their way to Sturgis. Martha’s duties as Credit Union manager hardly prepared her for such an emergency. What was she expected to do, alone in a building that was anything but burglar-proof? Alarmed and confused, she lay under her covers wide awake. Every little sound brought her to nervous attention. Morning dawned at last, and the Sturgis Credit Union manager, fortunately, had been robbed of nothing more than a much-needed night’s sleep.

When the new building was ready in 1966, Martha moved into it as its first Manager–and with her went the ancient heavy safe, causing its usual trouble to the movers. There it remained in use until it was sold many years later, in 1978.

Martha Schoenke, persuaded to keep her

position as Branch Manager through the period of amalgamation with Canora, turned in her resignation in 1968. She was followed by Donald Strelieff (19681970)1 Roger Loiselle (1970-72); and Dave Masters (1972-73). Masters then became Branch Manager in Preeceville, and Eugene Boychuk became Branch Manager in Sturgis on March 14, 1973.

As the years have gone by, the Board and other officials have changed as well. In 1966, on the occasion of the move into the new building, Albert Sjolie was president and Alvar Christopherson was vice-president. Other Board members were: Walter D. Mason, Joseph Rogstad, Milton Kortmeyer, Robert Sommerville, Benjamin Lande, Alvar Johnson, Frank Morgan and John Zubko. David Graham was chairman of the Supervisory Committee which consisted as well of Elmer Sjolie and Fred Beatty. Martha Schoenke was assisted in her management duties by Irma Robertson. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary, the staff increased to four full-time workers: Dave Masters (General Manager); Eugene Boychuk (Branch Manager), Evelyn Reagan, and Marcia Yagelnesky; and two part-time assistants: Elenore Prekaski and Carla Babiuk. The Board now had members from three districts. Canora District is represented by Adolph Matsalla (vice-president), Gary Herbert, Lawrence Kautz, Alice Koryk, Crest Mysak, Donald Sklaruk and George Stinka; Sturgis District by Wayne Dahlgren (president) and Eldon Olson; and Preeceville District by Howard Ellen, John Chopty and Nester Daschuk.

Mackenzie Society Ventures Inc. is looking for a contractor to complete a variety of projects at locations in Preeceville and Sturgis.

Work is to begin immediately or as soon

scopes. For more information please call 306-547-3462 EXT: 222 or email info@mackenziesociety.ca Closing May 15, 2023.

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

TOKARUK, Mary - Mary (Leason) Tokaruk fell asleep in the Lord on April 29, 2023, at the age of 92. She passed away in the presence of family and surrounded by love. Mary was born at home on February 3, 1931, to Onufrey and Veronica (Soyko) Leason, the fifth of eight children. Her childhood was spent on the family homestead near Lady Lake. Sunny Brae school was a two mile walk across the prairie with softball being the favourite game. It was an ordinary day at school when Mary saw a nurse drive by in a white uniform and her dreams of the future began. As the oldest girl in the family, she spent endless hours cooking and cleaning up after her 4 older brothers. It was a comment from a sister-in-law that provided the opportunity for escape. Apparently when Mary was born her grandfather gave her a calf. Nettie Leason said, “that calf must be a whole herd by now so ask your Dad to pay for your schooling.” Mary took the train to Yorkton and enrolled in nursing school. For a shy farm girl, this was a huge leap! She was nursing in Preeceville and dreaming of Peace River country when a rapscallion arrived in the Emergency Dept, having broken his wrist in an arm-wrestling contest. A romance ensued and she married Toby on September 8, 1956. They were “blessed” with four children in five years. Mary managed a small house, a huge garden, and a wringer washer. She also had shift work and a husband on the road. Her downtime was spent plucking the pile of wild geese that Toby dropped off as he headed out Monday morning. Summer meant the little cabin up the hill at Crystal Lake. The kids remember carefree days of swimming and cousins, croquet, and board games. The kids conveniently gloss over an outhouse, no running water, and coal oil lamps, as Mary turned out huge meals and hand washed cloth diapers. Those kids grew up, were forcefully launched, and eventually returned with grandchildren. Mary really loved those thirteen grandkids and spoiled them with homemade treats and with time. Her freezer was always stocked with perogies, honey biscuits, and all the family favourites. She was available to babysit, and the grandkids have great memories of Grandma playing soccer with them, sledding, and cross-country skiing. There were trips to the coast to see Sue and her family, houseboating on the Shuswap, Disneyland, Hawaii, and Mexico. In later years, she nursed Toby with extra love until he passed away in 2013. Mary was never idle, and really loved time spent in her beautiful yard and garden. She spent her last years compassionately cared for by the staff at Preeceville Long Term Care Home. Mary was predeceased by her parents, Onufrey and Veronica; husband, Toby (Alexander); brothers, Mike, John, Nick, Fred and Billy; sister, Irene; and daughter-inlaw, Louise. She is lovingly remembered by her sister, Ann Perras; sisters-in-law, Helen Leason and Anne Leason; her daughters, Lorri (Terry) Dennis, Susan (Michael) Dare, and Carol (Jason) Nagy; son, Brad (Sandy) Tokaruk; grandchildren: Joal (Maureen), Logan (Mel), Camille, Matthew (Jenna), Jasmine (Shane), Megan (Chad), Jade (Jason), Carson, Griffin (Braya), Cameron, Jillian, Brenna, and Alexa; and her Great Grandchildren: Lewis, Oliver, Annika, Odeya, Calden, and Henrik. A Funeral Service was held at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, May 6, 2023, from the Chapel of Leson’s Funeral Home, Canora, SK, with Rev. Nancy Brunt officiating. Interment followed in the Holy Ascension Orthodox Cemetery, north of Hubbard, SK, with Rev. Fr. Rodion Luciuk officiating. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations to the Canora Hospital Auxiliary or to the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan, as tokens of remembrance, in memory of Mary Tokaruk. Family and friends unable to attend are invited to sign an online guestbook at www.lesonsfuneralhome.ca. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON’S FUNERAL HOME, Canora.

IN MEMORIAM

Mary Yarycky

March 1,1913 -April 28, 2011

Those we love don’t go away they walk beside us everyday.

Unseen, Unheard, but always near so loved, so missed, so very dear.

Love Bob & Shirley

COMING EVENTS

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Orthodox Church, north of Stenen, SK

Everyone welcome.

Please call Lilia 306-594-2114 with questions.

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Pastoral Charge: Grace United Church (Sturgis) 9:30 a.m. Trinity United Church (Preeceville) 11 a.m. Available on Preeceville-Stur-

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Saskatchewan residents interested in hunting elk, moose, pronghorn or mule deer in the province can apply for the Big Game Draw as of May 1.

“Every year hunters eagerly anticipate the Big Game Draw for a chance to be drawn for one of our world-class hunting experiences,” Environment Minister Dana Skoropad said in a release. “The Big Game Draw is a useful tool the ministry uses to ensure all hunters across the province have a fair opportunity to access this limited resource. Good luck to all applicants.”

Applications must be submitted online through the Saskatchewan Hunting, Angling and Trapping Licence (HAL) system by 4 p.m. on May 25. Please note, late applications will not be accepted.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc.

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Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc.

Fax: 306-769-8844

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www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

Hunters should access their HAL accounts early and use the online residency verification tool to avoid complications during the application process.

Before submitting an application, take time to review the 2023 Big Game Draw Supplement for more information and quotas for draw species. The supplement and other information can be found at saskatchewan. ca/hunting. The Ministry of Environment has added other helpful tools to the website this year, including infographics and videos demonstrating how to register and how the pool status works.

Draw results will be available through HAL accounts in June, except for pronghorn, which will be available in mid-July. Big Game Draw applicants will be notified by email about their draw results, but hunters are ultimately responsible for checking their results online.

Successful applicants will be able to purchase licenses through their HAL accounts beginning August 1.

For information on HAL accounts or assistance with completing a draw application, please visit saskatchewanhal.ca or call 1-888-773-8450.

For questions about hunting in Saskatchewan, contact the Ministry of Environment’s Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov. sk.ca.

The highly-anticipated Big Game Draw is open to applications from Saskatchewan hunters.

Happy F st F st

B thday B thday

Duncan Chance Prestie

Born May 15th, 2022

Son of Chance and Samantha

Prestie of La Ronge, SK

POLISH

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

The ensemble is open to all, whether they have a Polish connection or not.

“All of the costumes belong to the dance group, which means that for a child or a person to participate in Polish dancing, in our club, it’s very, very affordable.”

The ensemble is run by volunteers, including the artistic directors and instructors.

Love from Grandma and Gija Elizabeth and Dale Prestie h d

E

Duncan’s other grandparents are Elsie and George Bihun of Prince Albert and his great-grandparents are Eileen and the late Steve Prestie, Mary and the late Carl Stein, the late John and Winnifred Bihun and the late Bud and Yvonne Morken

The event in Rama ended with a draw where the prizes were Polish foods, a 50/50 draw and a get-together that included muffins.

The St. Anthony ʼs Roman Catholic Church in Rama hosted the Polonia Polish Folk Dance Ensemble from Regina at their hall on April 23.