WE ARE HIRING
Parts Person – Agricultural Industry
We are a community-oriented agricultural business seeking a customer-focused Parts Person to join our team. Training provided – no experience necessary!
Responsibilities:
• Assist customers with parts orders • Manage inventory and process orders • Provide excellent customer service
Requirements:
• Strong customer service skills • Willingness to learn
• Basic computer skills (training provided)
What We Offer:
• Competitive pay & benefits • Supportive, community-focused workplace • Growth opportunities • Family oriented and maintain opportunities for a quality work/ life balance. Apply Today! Position open until filled. Contact email: cordell@owensandsweitzer.com or Derek@owensandsweitzer.com
Owens & Sweitzer (1972) Ltd. 124 Railway Ave E, Eston SK S0L 1A0 306-962-3637 www.owensandsweitzer.com
SASK WEST THIS WEEK
Close up the honky tonks
BY PHIL HEILMAN
League
In Game 2 of the SWHL Finals, the Wilkie Outlaws headed north to Edam for a Tuesday night matchup against the 3 Stars. Wilkie left with the 3-2 OT victory.
Brady Deobald opened the scoring for the home side early, and later in the first, Keegan Tiringer found the loose puck for the big 2-0 lead. Before the period expired, Mike Sittler would score to cut the lead to 2-1 after 20 minutes. The lone goal of the 2nd came off the stick of Rick Cey, tying the game just past the midway point of the middle frame. The game would remain tied until overtime, where the Skipper (Derek Keller) would send the everyone home.
Jared Herle stopped 32 of 34 shots in the win, while Taryn Kotchorek stopped 33 of 36 shots in the OTL.
The trophy was in the building Thursday night for Game 3, where Wilkie was looking for the sweep on home ice, while Edam was looking to extend the series. The Outlaws delivered a solid performance in a
5-3 victory.
Rick Cey’s 7th of the playoffs (on the power play) opened the scoring. That 1-0 lead held until the 2nd, where Brett Boehm and Brett Schell would extend that lead to 3-0 after 40 minutes. Ryan Keller and Rory Gregoire would tack one each on for a 5-0 before Edam attempted to mount a comeback. Brady Deobald, Keegan Tiringer and Joel Blaquiere all scored in a 9-minute span, but it just wasn’t enough.
Taryn Kotchorek stopped 43 of 48 shots in the loss, while Jared Herle stopped 30 of 33 shots in the win. Herle was named SWHL playoff MVP.
Provincials
In Senior ‘C’, the Wilkie Outlaws welcomed the Foam Lake Flyers for game 2 of the Provincial final, but it was Deja vu as the Flyers won in OT 7-6, winning their first provincial title in their 77-year history.
In Senior ‘D’, the Edam 3 Stars hit the road for the 700 plus kilometre journey to Redvers for their game 1 against the Rockets. Redvers won 5-3.
The Wilkie Outlaws are the 2025 Sask West Hockey League champions!
President Vaughn Bibordorf (left) and VP Al Neufeld (right) present Jared Herle with the SWHL playoff MVP award.
Bibordorf and Neufeld present Outlaws’ captain Ryne Keller with the SWHL trophy. PHOTOS BY PHIL HEILMAN
LOOKS LIKE SPRING HAS ARRIVED, PEEPS! Hey peeps (aka friends)! I stopped by the post office recently, and it truly sounded like spring. I could hear the distinct sound of peeping chicks in the warehouse. The staff kindly allowed me a glimpse and carefully lifted the lid for the chicks’ first photo opportunity. However, they warned me that if one happened to escape, I would be responsible for chasing it down.
BY
Unleashing agriculture for Canada’s growth
REGINA - In a pivotal move ahead of the 2025 federal election, the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) has announced a strategic agenda aimed at rejuvenating Canada’s agricultural landscape.
The agenda, titled “Unleashing Agriculture for Canada’s Growth,” articulates a set of priorities designed to solidify the future prosperity and resilience of the nation’s agricultural sector amid a fluctuating global trade climate.
With trade tensions escalating among the world’s largest economies, APAS underscores the imperative for the Canadian government to adopt forward-looking policies that bolster the competitiveness and robustness of Canadian agricultural.
APAS’s Priorities Include:
Enhanced International Trade and Market Access: Substantial investments in the nation’s transportation and logistics infrastructure, including improvements to rail, ports, and roadways. Additionally, a review of the Rail Freight Policy is deemed critical for optimizing these infrastructure enhancements.
Advancement of Finance and Tax Policy: A permanent increase of the Advance Payment Program (APP) interest-free cap to $350,000 and rebalancing the repayment framework. APAS also calls for an extension of farm roll-over tax provisions.
Regulatory Agency Competitiveness: Emphasizing a competitive policy landscape, APAS seeks the
integration of competitiveness considerations within regulatory agencies such as the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) and champions repositioning the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) under the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).
Modernization of Grain Services: Emphasizing transparency and fairness in the grain market, key proposals include transparency for grain export sales data, contract modernization, and enhanced producer payment protection.
Rail Freight Policy Reform: Reviewing railway costs, enhancing transportation data transparency, and advocating for extended interswitching zones to encourage competitive grain shipping rates.
National Supply Chain and Data Strategy: A cohesive national data strategy to support investment in technology, alongside measures to fortify the agrifood supply chain against disruptions.
Animal and Soil Health Policies: The establishment of a national testing centre for foreign-trained veterinarians and enhanced financial support for soil health practices highlights APAS’s commitment to addressing critical health gaps.
Through the execution of these priorities, APAS envisions a transformative growth path for Canadian agriculture, ensuring the sector remains at the forefront of the national economy while navigating international trade complexities.
PHOTO
JOAN JANZEN.
Calgary Flames Alumni defeat Dodsland Sr. Stars 10-5
BY JOAN JANZEN
There was a lot of excitement at Dodsland on Saturday, March 23, when the Stranraer Elks and the Dodsland Lions hosted the Calgary Flames Alumni game against the Dodsland Sr. Stars. Theo Fleury posted a comment on Saturday, saying “We’re in Dodsland, Saskatchewan for a charity game. Great little community, lots of great guys and we’re having a blast! It’s good to be on the ice and it’s good to be back in Saskatchewan! It’s the birth place of our brother Brad McCrimmon and it was an honour to play in his hometown.” Brad was born in Dodsland on March 29, 1959.
Morgan Rousseaux, President of the Dodsland Lions, was excited to report that approximately 350 people attended the supper and auction portion of the event, and almost as many attended the game. “We’ve never hosted an event of this size in the rink, so it was a learning experience for all of us!” Morgan said. Their learning experience resulted in a successful event, which included a meet-and-greet held prior to supper and a round table that followed. “The response to the entire evening was unbelievable!” Morgan said. We can’t thank the Flames Alumni enough for their time and effort. They answered
every question, signed everything that was placed in front of them, and made sure to stick around for some beers when it was all done.”
And as Fleury observed, “We raised a ton of money, and everybody was having a good day!” As for the on-ice portion, the score was 6-2 for the Flames after the first half, with a final score of 10-5 for the Flames Alumni.
“Seeing how well the Alumni still move out there was awesome!” Morgan said. “I think a lot of our local senior players underestimated what they were going up against.” He said watching Derek Smith get eaten alive in the face off dot all afternoon by his favourite
STARS Critical Care on the Air Radiothon
CALGARY
– On April 1 and 2, 2025, the Critical Care on the Air Radiothon for STARS presented by BHP will broadcast across more than 50 radio stations in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba to help raise critical funds to support the advanced training of STARS’ air medical crew and their life-saving operations.
During the two-day, 12-hour broadcast, listeners will hear powerful stories from Very Important Patients (VIPs), STARS flight crew members, and community allies who have been impacted by STARS firsthand. The radiothon offers an opportunity to learn about STARS’ mission and how donations impact critical care missions. Tune into these radio stations on April 1 and 2 to donate and learn more.
“STARS was built by the community, for the community, and for the last 40 years, we have relied on the support of our allies to continue our mission of providing critical care, anywhere it’s needed,” said Dr. John Froh, President & CEO of STARS. “The Critical Care on the Air Radiothon offers our crew and patients a chance to connect with com-
The RM of Kindersley was recently recognized for their annual donation to STARS air ambulance services. This donation will enable STARS to provide medical support to our community when time is of the essence.
munity allies, old and new, and showcase how significant their support is to our organization, and the direct impact it has on STARS’ life-saving operations across Western Canada.”
STARS aims to raise $400,000 during
this year’s radiothon, with five VIPs generously donating their time and energy to fundraise within their own networks and contribute towards the final goal. These VIPs — Draidyn Wollmann, Lyle Griffin, and Tyler Lister from Sas-
team was special.
Both the Stranraer Elks and Dodsland Lions pulled off a very successful event after nearly two years of planning. Plans began after the Elks presented their idea to the Lions in October 2023. At that time, the plans were placed on hold since the Flames Alumni had prior arrangements.
When the date was confirmed for 2025, the clubs and their almost 80 members combined forces to share the workload. The Stranraer Elks and Dodsland Lions not only shared the work but are also sharing the proceeds, which will be put back into their communities wherever needed.
katchewan; Sean Rickards from Manitoba; and Paula Johnson from Alberta — each have incredible stories of survival and resilience that will be heard throughout the two-day broadcast.
To donate during the broadcast, community members can call the Viterra Lifeline at 1-877-50-STARS or donate online to support a STARS VIP. BHP has once again generously signed on as presenting sponsor and kicked off donations with a $50,000 contribution.
“Like STARS, BHP is an organization that values safety above all else. The life-saving services that STARS provides go hand-in-hand with the nature of our work in Saskatchewan, and we are proud to be a dedicated partner of STARS to ensure that people can receive critical care when they need it most,” said Karina Gistelinck, BHP Asset President, Potash. Additionally, for every social media post using the hashtag #STARSCareOnTheAir, Saskatchewan Blue Cross will donate $100, up to $10,000. For more information on participating stations, to read VIP stories, and to donate, visit Critical Care on the Air - STARS.
The Flames Alumni emerged as champions, defeating the Dodsland Sr. Stars 10-5 Saturday, March 23 at Dodsland.
OPINION: How did we get here?
BY JOAN JANZEN
Two kids biking in an unfamiliar neighbourhood said, “We could be lost and not even know it.” Canadians could also be lost and misled and not even know it.
In the documentary ‘The Deadliest Scandal in Canadian History,’ Aaron Gunn explained the journey which led to more than 50,000 opioid deaths in Canada over the past ten years. The number accounts for more casualties than during the Second World War, while violent crime has gone up 50% in Canada since 2015. He asked one simple question: “How did we get here?”
When first responders became overwhelmed with the drug crisis, Ottawa came under pressure. Faced with a crisis, NDP and Liberals responded by decriminalizing the possession of 2.5 grams of illicit drugs for personal use, which were not confiscated.
The plan was to reduce the stigma of using these substances and to normalize drug use in public. The Surrey MLA said the police were powerless because it wasn’t illegal to use drugs in public places.
Sam Sullivan, former mayor of Vancouver, said with the help of government grants, addicts were put in one place and isolated from the rest of the population. “This created a nightmare,” he observed. Soon every small town had a downtown east side. “It was a failure of government policy.” Although BC has 14 percent of Canada’s population, it had 32% of Canada’s total amount of overdoses.
The four pillars of addiction treatment are prevention, harm reduction, treatment and law enforcement. However the government’s solution was based solely on harm reduction. A Globe and Mail Heading read: “As physicians, the ‘safe supply’ of opioids is one of the best tools we have to tackle
Canada’s drug-poisoning crisis.”
This led to kiosks of drug paraphanelia providing crack pipes and videos of how to use them. In the documentary, a BC woman from the Fraser region observed: “How far have we fallen as a country - from one that would hide cigarettes behind a curtain to one that would give you a crack pipe in a vending machine?”
Dr. Michael Lester, a Toronto addictions physician, described safe supply as handing out Dilaudid, a very powerful opioid. Addicts were given 25 eight-milligram tablets per day. For perspective, he said a cancer patient is given 3 milligrams a day for pain, while addicts were given hundreds of milligrams a day. Dilaudid isn’t as powerful as fentanyl, but it’s highly addictive, and you can overdose from it, as well as transition to using something stronger.
Dr. Keith Humphreys, professor at Stanford University, said there’s been a change in the way people think about harm reduction. Drug use is considered a right, no different than any other lifestyle choice.
Aaron Gunn talked about safe supply to David, an outreach worker and former addict. “They’re not stopping, they’re just trading their safe supply for fentanyl. If anything they’re using more fentanyl because now they have the means to buy it,” he explained. “The government has literally flooded our streets with drugs so much so that the price has collapsed making it even more attainable to drug users.”
When the Mayor of Port Coquitlam started communicating to the province that this was a problem he received backlash from the media.
And the government responded by Investing a lot more in safe supply.
When results of this devastating experiment began to be revealed, the media denied it, the government covered it up and issued a gag order on RCMP.
vulgarity and/or obscenities • Slurs and/or personal attacks • Misinformation We reserve sole discretion to decide whether or not a reader submission will be published. We will not publish anonymous submissions or letters containing personal attacks. We reserve the right to edit or refuse all letters.
In a series of drug busts, RCMP found prescription pills including dillies (Dilaudid) in big seizures in Prince George and Campbell River. However the government still wouldn’t admit it was a problem.
Meanwhile, police in London, Ontario, finally admitted the pills were being used as currency for fentanyl. London had safe supply since 2016; by 2023 RCMP seized 30,000 pills … the equivalent of 10,000 overdoses.
Dr.Jenny Melamed, who has watched the industry for 20 years, said some of the former policymakers now own heroin fentanyl companies.
Calla Barnett, a community activist in Ottawa said, “It looks like business owners have set up not-for-profit corporations in order to receive federal monies to fund their businesses, and that business is handing out addictive opioids.”
Aaron interviewed Greg Sword whose 14-year-old daughter died of an overdose. When she first overdosed at the age of 13, he turned to the BC Government for help. A psychiatrist wouldn’t allow him in the room when she was examined, and promptly reported there was nothing wrong with her. Months later she went to East Vancouver, picked up free dillies at a pharmacy and fatally overdosed. “How do you deal with the biggest drug dealer when it’s your own government?” Greg asked.
The Vancouver Sun reported, af-
ter facing mounting pressure, on Feb 19, 2025, the BC NDP government finally admitted that a “substantial amount” of government-prescribed safe supply was being diverted, and that the diverted drugs were being trafficked provincially, nationally and internationally by organized crime. They announced an immediate end to their experimental “unwitnessed safe supply” program. Sixty pharmacies are now under investigation for offering illegal kickbacks to addicts with safe supply prescriptions.
It’s a step in the right direction but of little consolation to the families of the 50,000 Canadians who died from drug overdoses since 2015. Meanwhile, Ontario’s safe supply program continues to this day. In fact a Feb. 27 headline in London, Ontario read: “Look to safe supply research, not disinformation campaigns, London doctor pleads with Ottawa”.
Aaron Gunn interviewed a London resident who made the following observation: “London police officers, employed with taxpayer money, are removing opioids from the streets that have been provided by the Canadian government. And if that’s not madness, I don’t know what is.” After reviewing this condensed summary of Aaron Gunn’s documentary, you may be beginning to see how Canadians can be lost and misled.
Pop89: “Go to your room, Mr. President”
BY MADONNA HAMEL
Well, that was nice for as long as it lasted. For a minute, we Canadians were all getting along. Mind you, how long does a family stay united when their sole reason is a shared enemy? The situation last week, with the whole Elbows Out Love-fest, awakened an inter-provincial alliance not in resistance to America - but in disgust with America’s commander-in-chief.
Hopefully we can continue to stay focussed on our shared similarities. But now that Carney has called an election, he’s got his work cut out for him. We are retreating into our regional camps and highlighting our differences. And, if we’re not careful, our internal cries for attention to local causes in the race for the prime minister’s office will weaken our collective stance against the loose cannonballs coming from the south.
I was enjoying Carney doing his dad thing: telling toddler T. that there would be no discussion until he took a time-out. I’m “not going to respond to every little comment” you make when you’re talking trash, kiddo, he said. So you just go to your room and think about what you’ve done. Because “your words are disrespectful and they’re not helpful and they need to stop before we sit down and have a conversation.”
I’ll continue with my analogy from last week’s column of a rich older dude (USA) trying to force himself on a younger gal (Canada). The words in quotes are the president’s actual words: Look, you need me. And frankly, I need you, well, ok, your land, which “I would cherish”, believe me. And sure, “I don’t really care” who your dad is, “that’s not what’s important to me.” What’s important is “you’re meant to be my 51st” wife. And if you don’t want to come peacefully into my cherished fold, well, I’ll make your life a living hell because you are, by far, “the nastiest” girl I’ve ever had to deal with.”
The president is behaving like a fullblown addict in the final stages of his addiction. And what is he addicted to? Chaos. He gets his hit from the rush of being insulted and fabricating new insults. He is the perpetual victim even as he sits in the position of the most powerful person in the Western world. And when you are dealing with an addict deep into his disease you do not try to rationalize with him. Because you can’t rationalize with the irrational. We make a fatal mistake if we think we just need to get the man to see the insanity of his verbiage. In the same way, we know better than to try to talk sense to a babbling, repetitive drunk; we need to
THANK YOU TO:
John & Geri Golightly
Brian Francis • Vicki Oomen
Angela & Sheldon Rioux
Gloria Regier • Linda Radies
Paul & Lisa Stevens
Gail Guidinger • Karri Wagman
Lorna Cridland • Henry Butt
James Golightly
Brian Somerville
Chris & Susan Theaker
Mantario Lions Club
Laura Wyman • Trudy Bews
Ken & Shirley Schmidt
Duane & Connie Cridland
Jor-Ann Safety
Klarenbach Farms
Fred & Colleen Humeny
Eatonia Lions Club
Leader Lions Club
Heather McLeod
respond to Mr. Chaos with a: We’ll talk after you sleep it off, pal.
Unfortunately, the president is surrounded by others with their own addictions; to chaos, yes. To power. To that adrenaline rush of walking too close to the edge. Or that to that equally dangerous terminally unique status that magically imbues them with the power to change him. They promise that, at some point, things will “get back to normal”. Or “calm down”. Or “settle”. But addicts don’t like “calm” or “normal”, or “settled.” Serenity makes them nervous. In fact, they wouldn’t know it if they saw it. They only know how to react to a jazzed up, cranked, animosity-fuelled environment. They are tuned to messes so they can keep hollering: “Don’t mess with me!”
Every addict’s drug of choice is More. You won’t ever hear an addict say: No thanks I’ve had enough. In this case: more land, more compliments, more money. Anyone that can offer an addict “more” is their new friend. And once the river of plenty runs dry, well, then, to use the casino lingo: all bets are off. Suddenly, your new best friend is a traitor, and never has anyone been more hurt, more misunderstood, more insulted, more betrayed. Never, ever. Because addicts are also fond of absolute terms - they “always” and “never” their way through their days.
Sadly, especially for the rest of us, addiction is a progressive disease. The only way an addict ceases his increasingly unmanageable behaviour is if he 1) goes into recovery, usually requiring a moment of profound awareness through hitting bottom. Or 2) gets com-
mitted to a mental health facility or 3) goes to prison. There is also the horrible possibility he dies due to an overdose of “more”. Because there is no empire big enough to please his hunger. Just like there are not enough bottles of whiskey in the world to quench an alcoholic’s thirst.
A cautionary tale comes to mind: The Emperor’s New Clothes. No side-kick can both convince the emperor of his nakedness and at the same time point and marvel at his new outfit. Eventually, as with all victims of someone else’s hubris, his aides will topple alongside him; addicts always drag their enablers down with them.
Unfortunately, while Carney can say: “Sorry, I’m not talking to you until you make sense,” he can’t send this addict to his room. He also can’t convince the American public that their president is somehow doing this for our own good. I recently read this deluded statement from a “concerned” American about Canada: “Are we making them a state to take their resources? Or are we making them a state to make them better for themselves and us?”
Can Carney get it through to Americans that they are not “making us better”? Let’s hope so. He can remain true to his principles. If, as he says, he values “humility” above all virtues he must see his way through the next weeks with a focus on a united Canada. We can’t afford slipping into animosity between ourselves, like bickering kids in a family threatened with enforced foster care. Humility is nigh impossible when you’re in the limelight. Pray Carney humbly does what’s best for Canada. Eatonia Oasis Living’s New Stove Has Arrived!
Thank You to Everyone who donated to the EOL Kitchen Fundraiser
I am so overwhelmed with the generosity that this community and surrounding area has demonstrated! It’s absolutely astounding, but not surprising. Again and again people have stepped up when needed. I want to sincerely thank each and everyone of the organizations and individuals that have supported this worthy cause. It warms my heart that we are so fortunate to live in this wonderful community and country.
Sharon Butt
Rod & Darlene Schmidt
Bruce & Janice Nunweiler
Brad Quickfall • Rhonda Nash
Greg & Ronalee Guidinger
Joan Macrae • Bilee Humeny
Lorne & Linda Pincemin
Dave & Treena Redman
Neil & Janine Specht
Raelyn Strutt • Donna Henry
Deborah Cooke
Glenna Marchant
Longhorn Oil and Gas
Connie & Arthur Bosch
Matthew Farms
Don & Cathie Punter
Sheila Nunweiler
Allan & Darlene Olson
Kelly Woodrow
Margaretta Thomson
Leader Lioness Club
John Hartsook
Eston Riverside Park hosts Fish Fry fundraiser
BY JOAN JANZEN
ESTON — Eston Riverside Regional Park held a Fish Fry Fundraiser on Friday evening, March 28th at the AGT Community Centre in Eston. Karen Mullis was part of a group of twenty volunteers who both organized and worked at the fundraiser, along with a dozen or so people who donated desserts. Pre-orders for take-out and delivery were also available.
This is the second year the group hosted the fish fry. “We had such a great turnout at last year’s event, we decided to do it again,” Karen said. Once again they served 100 pounds of crispy coated pickerel, baked potatoes, coleslaw, homemade tartar sauce and dessert. Proceeds from the fundraiser are turned over to the park to be used in whatever projects they have planned. “There is always something in need of replacement or repair,” Karen concluded.
PHOTO BY KAREN MULLIS
Underdog Jays show spring potential
BY BRUCE PENTON
Toronto Blue Jays have gone eight full seasons without winning a playoff series and every baseball expert posting pre-season prognostications says that number will likely be nine when the 162-season comes to a close Sept. 28.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
In fact, the oddsmakers in Las Vegas predict the Blue Jays will finish fifth in the five-team American League East, perhaps the toughest division in baseball. All this despite an outstanding spring training season, in which they led the A.L. in wins.
But you never know. Maybe outfielder Addison Barger will carry his impressive spring training stats into the regular season or maybe he’ll be sent down to Buffalo. Maybe 41-year-old Max Scherzer will find his 2013-18 magic and post a 20-7 record or something similar. His colleagues in the starting pitcher rotation include veterans with talented arms — Chris Bassitt, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios and last year’s breakout star, Bowden Francis, who posted an 8-5 record with a 3.30 ERA. Potentially, that group could thrive, especially if the offence packs a bit more punch than it did last year. Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., who has reportedly cut off negotiations on a contract extension and could become a free agent, or a trading chip, could have a monster year, especially if he’s intent on impressing potential suitors for his free-agent talents. Guerrero, Jr., batted .323 last year with 30 home runs, and with free-agent slugger Anthony Santander batting either before him in the lineup, or following him, pitchers will have to think twice about pitching around the Jays’ two big bangers.
Other solid bats for the Blue Jays belong to Bo Bichette, who suffered through an injury-plagued season last year, and free-agent signee Andres Gimenez. Bichette played only 81 games and batted a lowly .225 in 2024, but he’s a career .290 hitter and if he’s healthy for 162 games, another season around .300 can be expected. Gimenez is expected to start at second base after four seasons with Cleveland Guardians.
Santander, who crushed 44 homers for Baltimore last year, will patrol the outfield with George Springer and Daulton Varsho, both of whom are coming off so-so seasons in 2024, but still carrying potent bats. Springer has averaged 23 home runs a season during his 11-year career while Varsho, who has played only three full seasons, has averaged 21 homers when he’s played a full year.
Surprise contributors to the Jays could be infielder Will Wagner, who batted .305 in 24 games for the Jays after being acquired last July from Houston for pitcher Yusei Kikuch, and Barger, who batted only .197 last year but has enjoyed a tremendous spring, hitting .370 in his first 14 games.
“The floor was raised because of our own guys’ expectations after the way things went last season,” manager John Schneider told Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun. “And then having guys like Max (Scherzer), (Anthony Santander), (Andrés) Giménez come in … you add those personalities and you kind of see guys feeding off each other.”
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun, lamenting
Mitch Marner’s lack of joy in the public forum: “Often in post-game or off-day interviews, he appears as though he’s on the witness stand for a trial of something he’s perceived to have done wrong.”
• Bob Molinaro of pilotonline.com (Hampton, Va.): “With the NFL reporting no injuries on the tush push in 2024, critics within the league will have to come up with another reason to ban the play. An inability to stop Jalen Hurts can’t be one of them.”
• Globe and Mail columnist Cathal Kelly, on the Leafs’ problems: “The Leafs don’t need more centres. They need more therapists.”
• Another one from Cathal Kelly: “The Leafs aren’t a bad team. They’re a bad marriage. Every April, they break up. And every summer, despite being warned by all their friends, they get back together.”
• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe.com: “RIP George Foreman, only 76. Not a boxing fan but he was one of the greatest. Wonder how many millennials think of him as the grill man?”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen: “The Dallas Mavericks announced a season-ticket increase for next year. That should go over well. ’Hey, we traded away the most popular player in history. How do we top that?’ Just watch.”
• Another one from Rolfsen: “Giannis Antetokounmpo just joined the 20,000 career point club and can now access the VIP lounge at the Milwaukee international airport.”
• Headline at fark.com, after Sandro Mamukelashvili of the San Antonio Spurs scored 34 points in 19 minutes: “Spurs player sets record in 19 minutes. I think the record is how many times announcers mispronounced his name.”
• Another fark.com offering: “Ref accidentally helps Leafs win, vows to get back to screwing them over in the playoffs.”
• Jack Finarelli on his sportscurmudgeon.com website, suggesting the new owners of the Boston
In 2024, the Rosetown and District Health Centre Foundation was able to purchase this Big Wheel Stretcher and mattress for use in Acute Care at the Rosetown Hospital. Shown with these items are members of the nursing team Maricris Batallones, Kendra Wisse and Kendyl Stephenson. SUBMITTED
Celtics may have overpaid with their $6.1 billion purchase of the team, going on to quote comedian Steve Martin: “I love money. I love everything about it. I bought some pretty good stuff. Got me a $300 pair of socks. Got a fur sink. An electric dog polisher. A gasoline powered turtleneck sweater. And, of course, I bought some dumb stuff, too.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
COLEVILLE DAYCARE COMMITTEE presents
SURF AND TURF FOR TOTS
Saturday, April 12 at the Coleville Community Hall COCKTAILS AT 6PM LOBSTER AND KABOB SUPPER AT 7PM ~ Silent Auction To Follow ~ $65 / TICKET
SEATING IS BASED ON 8/TABLE
Tickets available at the Village of Coleville Office
ALL FUNDS RAISED AID IN CONTINUING THE DEVELOPMENT OF LICENSED DAYCARE IN COLEVILLE
Contact Stacey Neumeier at 306-430-7788 for ticket information or if you wish to donate to the event.
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll
Village of Smiley
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Smiley for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days:
Monday to Thursday - April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the Village of Smiley. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Kara Lindal, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/mail to the Village of Smiley, Box 160, Major, SK S0L 2H0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the Village of Smiley, Box 160, Major, SK S0L 2H0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025.
Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Charlotte Helfrich Assessor
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Flaxcombe
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Flaxcombe for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days:
Wednesday to Friday, April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the Village of Flaxcombe. All appeals must be filed with the local assessor at the Village of Flaxcombe. All appeals must be filed with The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/mail to the Village of Flaxcombe, Box 136, Flaxcombe, SK S0L 1E0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at: the Village of Flaxcombe, Box 136, Flaxcombe, SK S0L 1E0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025.
Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Charlotte Helfrich, Assessor
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Brock
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Brock for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Wednesday to Friday, April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the Village of Brock. All appeals must be filed with the local assessor at the Village of Brock. All appeals must be filed with The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/ mail to the Village of Brock, Box 70, Brock, SK S0L 0H0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at: the Village of Brock, Box 70, Brock, SK S0L 0H0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025. Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Charlotte Helfrich, Assessor
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Rural Municipality of Heart’s Hill No. 352
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Heart’s Hill No. 352 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor at 405 Grand Avenue, Luseland, Saskatchewan, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: April 1, 2025 to June 2, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal their assessment is required to file a Notice of Appeal with the Board of Revision Secretary, Kara Lindal (Email: secretary@ westernmunicipal.ca or Mail: Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., P.O. Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0) by the 2nd day of June, 2025.
An appeal fee of $25.00 per property, payable to the R.M. of Heart’s Hill No. 352, must accompany the appeal. The fee will be returned if the appeal is successful.
Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
REMEMBERING WHEN
The woodcutter’s philosophy
BY KEITH SCHELL
When we were young, our late father, early one Saturday afternoon on our bush property as our family culled and cut down dead and decaying trees in the spring snow to harvest as firewood for our home, shared this profound piece of manly philosophy over lunch with his three growing boys:
“A man who cuts his own firewood is twice warmed.”
And that’s very true. For those of you who may not know what he meant, he meant that you are firstly warmed by the physical effort of cutting the wood yourself, and then later on you are secondly warmed by the heat from the burning of that same wood as you burned it in your wood stove or in your fireplace at home.
Our father was an ardent and robust outdoorsman who loved and respected the bush. Dad loved everything about wood. He loved to cut down trees, he loved to cut the downed trees up into splittable sections, he loved to split the wood sections into usable firewood, and he loved the heat and roaring glow of a fire in a wood stove. Firewood was an essential part of our father’s life growing up.
Dad grew up on a country farm where wood was the sole source of heat for their home. Not only was his country home heated solely by wood as a boy, but he was also appointed by his teacher as the boy who had to get to school a bit earlier than everyone else in the winter to get the wood stove going to heat up their one-room schoolhouse so that everyone else would be comfortable when they came to school to begin their studies for the day.
Because the burning of wood held a special place in our father’s family life growing up, it also held a special place in our memories of growing up in the country. I distinctly remember our grandparents having a big black cast iron wood-burning cook stove in their kitchen that they used to cook meals every time we visited. They also had an electric stove as a backup, but it was only used as a last resort if the wood stove was going to take too long to cook the meal. The wood stove was big and black with white enamel oven doors, and you had to lift the cooking surface stove lids with handheld lid lifters to feed wood into the stove to maintain the fire for cooking. Many a happy
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll
R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Thursday - April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Kara Lindal, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/mail to the R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321, Box 160, Major, SK S0L 2H0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321, Box 160, Major, SK S0L 2H0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $200 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025.
Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Sunday dinner we enjoyed at Grandma and Grandpa’s was cooked on their wood-burning cast iron cook stove.
Eventually, after Mom and Dad married, started our family, and built our house in the country, Dad decided it was finally time to invest in a wood-burning stove for our family home. He originally purchased a Franklin stove and set it up in the living room. We enjoyed the warmth and crackle of a wood fire on many cold and snowy winter nights and occasionally saw the natural phenomenon of the ‘migrating geese’ radiating from the fire on the inner walls of our Franklin stove.
Taking his love of firewood to the next level, our entrepreneurial father decided to turn woodcutting into a profitable side business. While we usually just cut wood for ourselves, Dad knew the local cottagers enjoyed the pleasure of a glowing fire as much as he did. We boys would go with Dad to a local sawmill to buy truckloads of slabwood to cut to size and sell to the local cottagers for firewood. For those who may not know, slabwood is the outside part of the tree, including the bark, that is left over when the sawmill cuts the harvested tree logs into usable building materials. Slabwood was considered scrap at the time, so the mill was happy to sell it by the truckload to anyone who wanted to take it away.
We would pile the wood as high as we safely could in the back of our truck, using extra-long pieces of sturdy slabwood as side slats to secure the load and make the pile even higher. Once our truck was stacked to the sky with slabwood, we would tie the load down securely and take it home to pile close to our own little personal sawmill, ready to be cut to size and parceled out to any cottager who wanted to order a cord of wood from Dad. As word about his business spread, many local cottagers experienced a warm and soothing evening fire in their fireplaces thanks to the efforts of our family.
Double entendres aside, men and wood will always have a special relationship with each other. Lynn Johnston, the Canadian creator of the ‘For Better or for Worse’ cartoon strip, understood this, once writing in her autobiography, as she lived with her dentist husband in a rural community in the wilds of Northern Ontario, “You can mess with a man’s wife, but not his woodpile.”
Like in the story of the grasshopper and the ant, our family spent many weekends in our bush lot in the early spring before the bugs came out, harvesting decaying trees for firewood in preparation for the winter to come. And I smile about those times spent in our youth, working in the early spring snow and bonding with family, all the while being ‘twice warmed’ by the cutting of our own firewood.
Janelle Franko, Assessor
Charlotte Helfrich Assessor
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Progress No. 351 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, March 25th to May 27th, 2025 (Excluding statutory holidays)
A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the R.M. of Progress No. 351. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Kara Lindal, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/mail to R.M. of Progress, Box 460, Luseland, SK S0L 2A0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the R.M. of Progress No. 351. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $200.00 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 27th of May, 2025.
Western Municipal Consulting Ltd.
Secretary of the Board of Revision - Attn: Kara Lindal P.O. Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0
Dated in Luseland, SK this 31st day of March, 2025.
Kim Adams, Assessor
Keith Schell
Unity, Wilkie and Macklin RCMP report
Unity RCMP
• RCMP received a complaint of an individual in a residence yard. Members attended but could not locate the subject of complaint.
• Police received a complaint of a break and enter but it was unfounded.
• Members issued a 72-hour roadside suspension during a traffic stop.
• RCMP conducted a wellbeing check at the request of another RCMP Detachment.
• Police are investigating a complaint of drug trafficking.
• A 20-year-old male from Unity was charged with Assault after Member received a complaint of assault.
• RCMP received a report of a vehicle collision with a moose. The vehicle passenger sustained minor injuries.
• A 20-year-old male from Unity was charged with Resist Peace Officer, Failure to Comply with an Undertaking Condition, and two counts of Assault Police Officer after Members received a report of an individual breaching an undertaking.
• There was also one false alarm.
Wilkie RCMP
• RCMP received a complaint of an unwanted dog at a residence. Members informed the animal owner to contact an animal shelter.
• A 42-year-old male from Wilkie was charged with Fail to Comply with Undertaking Condition after Members received a complaint of an individual breaching an undertaking condition.
• Police received a complaint of a break and enter. This matter is still under investigation.
• RCMP received a complaint of uttering threats. Members spoke to the subject of complaint and issued a verbal warning. The complainant requested no further action be taken.
• Members received a complaint of a hit and run
causing damage to a vehicle. This matter is still under investigation.
• Police received a complaint of assault. This matter is still under investigation.
• There was also one traffic complaint, one false 911 call and one false alarm.
Macklin RCMP
• RCMP received a complaint of a break and enter but there was insufficient evidence to proceed.
• Members are investigating a complaint of disturbing the peace.
• Police received a few reports of an abandoned trailer. The trailer was not stolen and not a roadway hazard. No further police action required.
• RCMP received a complaint of drug trafficking. This matter is still under investigation.
• Member received a complaint of theft of fuel from a local gas station. This matter is still under investigation.
• Police received a report of an injured moose on the Highway. Members contacted Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management.
• Members issued a 60-day roadside suspension during a traffic stop.
• There was also one false alarm and one false 911 call.
Persons with information about crimes being committed in the Unity / Wilkie/ Macklin areas are urged to call the Unity RCMP detachment at (306)228-6300; the Wilkie RCMP at (306) 843-3480; or the Macklin RCMP at (306) 753-2171. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may also call Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or *8477 on the SaskTel Mobility Network. Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2000.00 for information which leads to the arrest of person(s) responsible for any serious crime. Crime Stoppers is anonymous and does not subscribe to call display, nor are your calls traced or recorded. You can also submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com
Rosetown and Kyle RCMP weekly report
• Kyle RCMP received a report of an erratic driver on Highway 7 near Harris. Members were unable to locate the vehicle.
• Kyle RCMP attended a wellbeing check request in Rosetown.
• Kyle RCMP received a report of a shop fire near Kyle. There were no injuries.
• Kyle RCMP received a complaint of an abadoned vehicle in a parking lot in Rosetown. Members were in touch with the subject of complaint and were advised the vehicle was not abandoned.
• Kyle RCMP are investigating several complaints of punctured tires in Rosetown.
• Rosetown RCMP are investigating a residential break and enter complaint in Rosetown.
• Rosetown RCMP received a report of an assault in Harris. Members arrested and charged a 38-yearold male from Harris with Assault and released for court.
• Kyle RCMP attended a wellbeing check request in
• Rosetown RCMP received a traffic complaint on Highway 7. There was insufficient evidence to proceed.
• Kyle RCMP received a report of a suspicious person in Rosetown. There was insufficient evidence to proceed.
• Rosetown RCMP received an erratic driving complaint on Highway 7. Members were unable to locate the vehicle.
• Rosetown RCMP received a report of a single motor vehicle collision on Highway 7 near Harris. Members attended - there were no injuries.
There were 53 Traffic related charges issued, 1 false alarm call and 1 911 miss-dial call. Police are asking anyone with information about these or any other crime(s) to please contact the Rosetown RCMP at 306-882-5700, Saskatchewan Stoppers anonymously at www.saskcrimestoppers.com 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll
Village of Major
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Major for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Thursday - April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the Village of Major. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Kara Lindal, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/mail to the Village of Major, Box 179, Major, SK S0L 2H0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the Village of Major, Box 179, Major, SK S0L 2H0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025. Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Charlotte Helfrich Assessor
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Netherhill
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Netherhill for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Wednesday to Friday, April 1 to June 3, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the Village of Netherhill. All appeals must be filed with the local assessor at the Village of Netherhill. All appeals must be filed with The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca or via post/ mail to the Village of Netherhill, Box 4, Netherhill, SK S0L 2M0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision. Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at: the Village of Netherhill, Box 4, Netherhill, SK S0L 2M0. A notice of appeal accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 3rd day of June, 2025.
Dated this 1st day of April, 2025.
Charlotte Helfrich, Assessor
Kyle.
BY BRIAN ZINCHUK
In what are the most positive words from President Donald Trump with regards to Canada since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau went to Mar-a-lago last December, Trump posted a positively glowing note on his Truth Social account Friday morning.
He said on March 28, “I just finished speaking with Prime Minister Mark Carney, of Canada. It was an extremely productive call, we agree on many things, and will be meeting immediately after Canada’s upcoming Election to work on elements of Politics, Business, and all other factors, that will end up being great for both the United States of America and Canada. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
Notably, he did not refer to Carney as “governor,” but “Prime Minister.” He made no reference to Canada becoming the “51st state.” But he also made no reference to stopping the imposition of tariffs in the coming days.
Saskatchewan becomes the first province in Canada to be carbon tax-free
Effective April 1, Saskatchewan will be the first province in Canada to eliminate the carbon tax. The Government of Saskatchewan has decided to pause the industrial carbon tax rate under its Output-Based Performance Standards (OBPS) Program. This decision aims to provide immediate financial relief to families, farmers, businesses, and industries across the province. As part of this initiative, the carbon tax rate rider will be removed from all SaskPower bills, saving Saskatchewan families and businesses hundreds of dollars each year.
“Today, we are making Saskatchewan the first carbon tax-free province in Canada,” said Premier Scott Moe. “By leading the way in removing this harmful tax, we hope that federal leaders will support our position and allow provinces to regulate this area without imposing a federal backstop.”
Minister of Crown Investments Corporation Jeremy Harrison added, “Saskatchewan led the way in eliminating the carbon tax on home heating last year, saving families over $400 on their household SaskEnergy bills. Now we are taking the lead once again as the first province in Canada to remove the industrial carbon tax on electricity generation, providing further savings for families, businesses, and industries on their SaskPower bills.”
In light of ongoing tariff threats and rising costs of living, Saskatchewan is taking decisive steps to protect its residents and businesses from economic uncertainty and unnecessary taxation.
“Now more than ever, the world needs our clean and sustainable food, fuel, and fertilizer,” said Environment Minister Travis Keisig. “This is not the time to risk undermining our economic growth and prosperity. Pausing the industrial carbon tax will allow industries to grow and operate sustainably while maintaining our economic competitiveness during these uncertain times.”
Saskatchewan is home to some of the most sustainable products on the planet, offering the food, fuel, fertilizer, and critical minerals that the world needs. By eliminating industrial carbon costs—often passed directly to consumers—the province is working to protect affordability and economic competitiveness.
This decision will create an economic environment where industries can confidently make investments, increase production, and support the jobs and families that rely on them. While the industrial carbon tax rate is temporarily paused, the Government of Saskatchewan will continue to engage with industry stakeholders regarding the future of Saskatchewan’s OBPS system.
SOUTHWEST RAIDERS TOUR
EMPRESS VI: A day off from school allowed some of the 16U Southwest Raiders to take a trip to “the plants” located west of Burstall, Sask. After completing their orientation, the team enjoyed a guided tour of the facility. Shane Sitter, representing Plains Midstream, presented the girls with their sponsorship from the company. The 16U Southwest Raiders team was formed last year, and this trip marks their first opportunity to compete at Nationals in Edmonton from May 19th to 21st, along with their coach, Tena Schneider. They express their gratitude to Plains Midstream for their support and appreciated the chance to learn more about the Empress VI site.
PHOTO BY LACY STRUTT
How the RM of Happyland got its name
BY JOAN JANZEN
According to the RM of Happyland website, the rural areas of the province were initially divided into Local Improvement Districts for government administration purposes. These districts were later transformed into rural municipalities following the passage of the First Municipality Act in 1908.
The RM of Happyland No. 231 was originally named the RM of Prussia No. 231 and included the communities of Leader, Liebenthal, Mendham, and Prelate. In 1917, the name was changed to the RM of Happyland, likely due to the anti-German sentiment that arose during World War I.
The late Sam Reimche recounted that his father shared a story about how the RM received its name. A settler in the area, thrilled to be living in this open, free
land, referred to it as a “happy land” in their limited English. The name ultimately became permanent.
The first RM office was located in Leader at 1031st Street West. According to the history book ‘Pages of the Past’, the minutes from the first four years of the municipality’s operation were unfortunately destroyed by a flood in the RM building’s basement.
Here are some details recorded about the newly formed municipality: Men who enlisted in the army during World War I had their land taxes canceled. In 1918, a bounty of 1 cent per gopher tail was offered, resulting in a total of $88.70 paid out by June of that year. By 1919, the bounty was increased to 2 cents per tail, and by the end of that year, a total of $800.00 had been paid. In 1935, the only qualifications for RM office staff were the ability to speak German and perform some typing.
Spring weather brings thinning ice to Saskatchewan
Last Thursday, the Water Security Agency (WSA) advised the public about thin ice conditions across Saskatchewan. As warmer temperatures for spring runoff begin to set in, the WSA is urging caution around the province’s rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water due to thinning ice.
Although temperatures vary across Saskatchewan, the increased warmth is leading to greater melting, runoff, and thinning of the ice. It’s important to note that ice does not melt uniformly, and its strength can differ significantly from one area to another.
Be aware that any activity on ice carries risks, and thickness is just one factor to consider when assessing ice safety. Avoid ice that appears slushy, has thawed and then refrozen, or is located near moving water.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local ice and water conditions, as these can change quick-
ly during the spring thaw, leading to weakened ice and rapidly flowing water. The WSA will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they develop.
OPINION: But what about her emails?!
BY SHERI MONK Guest Columnist
It’s tough to be a journalist these days – I’m glad I just dabble in it.
Internet Solutions for • Residential • Business • Enterprise
First, the truth is no longer just contextual and objective – it’s often not truth at all. In January 2017, just after Trump’s first inauguration, the White House coined the term “alternative facts,” and at the time, I laughed. I actually thought the public, whether Democrat or Republican, would admonish the newly minted administration back into reality. But I was young, naive, and so much less misanthropic back then. I miss those days. They feel like 30 years ago.
Duchcherer, President
• sales@netago.ca • Hanna, AB
Last week, Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, revealed that he was added to a group chat discussing detailed plans for bombing Yemen. This group chat was on an app called Signal, which, while known for better privacy than Facebook Messenger, is still an app available for download by anyone, on any phone. To be clear, this group chat – into which the journalist was mistakenly added – included more than a dozen senior Trump officials, including the vice president, secretary of state, and secretary of defense.
In excerpts released by Goldberg, Vance (the VP) expressed his distaste for Europe’s “freeloading” on U.S. military action in Iran-backed Yemen. The timing was discussed, and he even used emojis in the chat to represent the bombing.
Is this the same country that condemns its allies for not spending enough on defense? The same country where officials plan foreign attacks via a public messaging app and accidentally invite a journalist? And these are the people who control roughly half the world’s nuclear arsenal? AND we share a border with them?
Goldberg initially sat on the leak, not wanting to cause a national security crisis before the bombs were dropped. He wasn’t even sure if the conversation was real, but once the Yemen attack made the news, he knew it was. I would have been incredulous, too. I took greater security precautions sending my sister all my passcodes in case things went south during a recent shark-diving trip in Australia.
And what was Trump’s reaction when he found out? He pretended not to know and attacked The Atlantic, while other officials slammed the journalist. I was dumbfounded—but not surprised. I don’t even know if I’m capable of genuine astonishment anymore. If aliens landed tomorrow on a giant horseshaped spaceship, I wouldn’t be surprised. Impressed, maybe. Surprised? Nah. I haven’t been surprised since 2017.
After Trump and the White House blamed Goldberg for everything, the MAGA cult did likewise, claiming he should be imprisoned for exposing the massive screw-up in the first place. Do these people have any idea what journalism is supposed to do? How it functions to ultimately support democracy? Oh wait – they’re not interested in democracy.
If they weren’t so dangerous, the U.S. would be the laughingstock of the world right now. But that would be like laughing at a suicidal bus driver swerving between lanes—while you’re riding the bus.
This latest insanity comes from the same administration criticizing Canada for our lack of security and military spending. Just for sport, I looked up some statistics.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Canada ranked 16th in the world in 2023, spending $27.2 billion USD on its military. In contrast, Israel spent just slightly more at $27.5 billion. The U.S. placed first with $916 billion, China was second with an estimated $296 billion, and Russia was third with an estimated $109 billion. India and Saudi Arabia rounded out the top five biggest military spenders.
There are 196 countries in the world, and Canada ranks 16th in military spending. Our 2023 defense budget represented 1.3 per cent of our GDP. Sure, the U.S. spent FAR more—but their $916 billion represents only 3.4 per cent of their GDP, and they have a bad habit of invading, attacking, and otherwise involving themselves in conflicts. A quick AI search revealed, “The U.S. has been militarily involved in nearly 400
interventions in foreign countries between 1776 and 2023, with half of these operations occurring since 1950 and over 25 per cent in the post-Cold War period.”
Canada has apparently been involved in seven conflicts since the Cold War. Not 50. Seven.
So, the U.S. spends 2.62 times what we do but is involved in seven times as many conflicts? What a joke. It’s almost as ridiculous as blaming Canada for the fentanyl crisis in the U.S. when their own threat assessment summary didn’t even mention us. It’s one thing to be betrayed—it’s another to be falsely accused and gaslit on the world stage.
Speaking of being falsely accused on the world stage, I’ve thought a lot about Hillary Clinton and what she went through during her campaign against Trump. Remember the rallies where red-faced people in red hats screamed “LOCK HER UP”? Because I sure do. I happened to be in the U.S. the night of that election, and a “Lock Her Up” billboard stood just outside my hotel. That night, multiple trucks with Confederate flags unleashed their rage and misogyny by hurling beer bottles at the very advertisement Trump’s donors had paid for.
And why did Trump tell his followers and the world she should be in prison? Because she was answering work emails from her home server while serving as secretary of state. Meanwhile, Trump had more classified files sitting around on his coffee table, and there wasn’t a peep from the same crowd. Now, military secrets that risked the lives of their own military personnel have been leaked—and they refuse to be accountable in any way.
Thankfully, other nations see that the emperor has no clothes (and, make no mistake, it’s a terrible sight), and they are rallying behind Canada. The “Made in Canada” movement has caught on throughout Europe and the Commonwealth, as people overseas deliberately exclude American products—many expressly seeking to support us. These efforts to stand with us and truly see the situation for what it is mean so much more than mere dollars and cents. From the bottom of our hearts—thank you.
Should we be spending more on defense? Yes, now we absolutely should—thanks to the bully in our backyard. Sheri Monk is a freelance writer
Paris 2022. PHOTO BY SHERI MONK
How a stray dog became a couple’s
BY JOAN JANZEN
Does anyone remember ‘The Littlest Hobo’ television series? Well, Pat and Larry Constable from Burstall shared their story about their ‘biggest Hobo’. The black Lab became famous on social media when he was first spotted roaming across the prairies eight km west of Leader last October.
A nearby acreage owner described the dog as “male, not friendly and growling.” In spite of his crusty disposition, she began feeding him and encouraged him to return for his daily meal.
But the big black Lab had other plans and showed up on the highway at Burstall on November 19. “I don’t know what happened,” Pat said. “Maybe something scared him, but he showed up in Burstall.” And that’s when Pat and her husband Larry became involved.
“I can’t stand seeing animals being hungry,” Pat explained. The canine would wander around at night. “He kept the coyotes and deer out of town, but so many people were irritated by his bark, which is a really loud bark,” Pat said. Whenever people approached him he got scared, barked and backed away. Pat decided to name him Hobo.
The Burstall couple discovered Hobo lying near a church, so Pat placed straw nearby and started feeding him there. People in the community began to notice Pat’s efforts and would drop off bags of dog food. Hobo would eat out of an ice cream pail and totally destroy the pail, so Pat thought he needed a toy. Neighbours and friends pitched in and contributed dog toys, but Hobo wasn’t interested. He preferred playing with ice cream pails.
While Pat was trying to get close to Hobo, she said someone was chasing him at night with a flashlight, so he would run away when she tried to get close to him. But Pat and Larry persevered, driving around until they located their precious Hobo.
“When he saw our truck, he’d lift his head. I would roll the food off my hand, he’d pick it up and then bark at me. That went on for a week,” she recalled. Temperatures were dipping as low as -30 degrees and she was worried he didn’t have a place to stay warm.
Pat and Larry followed him during the day as he made his rounds outside the town. By the end of January, Pat was convinced Hobo was leaving town; however, a school bus driver said she had seen the dog on a farm outside of Burstall.
Pat immediately contacted the young family who lived there and began feeding Hobo every morning. “I’d sit in a snow bank and call him,” Pat said. Hobo became friends with the farmer’s dog Rusty, but he was also warming up to his human buddies.
Once again, one of Pat’s neighbours helped by feeding Hobo at the farm each afternoon until the dog ate out of her hand. Their next plan of action was to lure Hobo into the farmer’s garage. Rusty led the kids into the garage, and Hobo followed; it was as simple as that.
“We closed the door; we didn’t know what he would do,” Pat said. “He never barked. He laid down, the kids were petting him, we were petting him.” The once stray, growling dog had transformed into a gentle giant.
While Hobo became comfortable in the garage, Pat and Larry were making plans to lure him into their truck. “We put sausage all along the floor of our truck
PHOTO BY JENNA KRIEN
and kept calling him until he finally jumped in,” Pat said. “He was so calm in the truck like he had always been there.”
“We tried to get him in the house. He hesitated at first, but then he walked in and laid down, and the rest is history.”
Pat and Larry love Hobo, and everyone falls in love with him. He shakes a paw. He never had a leash, but they’ve trained him with a harness because he’s such a big dog. His friends from Leader stop by to see him.
“We don’t know where he was or how long he was on the loose. I just wish he could talk,” Pat said. But Hobo isn’t revealing his secret past; he’s much more interested in his comfy bed in his new home with Pat and Larry.
“We never wanted another dog ‘cause we’re in our late 70’s, but Hobo is a blessing, and he’s made our lives so much better,” Pat concluded.
This was the first time Hobo, the stray black Lab was seen in Burstall on November 19, 2024.
garage.
Today Hobo is a happy member of Pat and Larry Constable’s household since February 13, 2025.
1. GEOGRAPHY: Mount Everest is part of which mountain range?
2. MOVIES: Which color film was the first to win an Academy Award for Best Picture?
3. ASTRONOMY: Which planet in our solar system is believed to be the windiest?
4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Where is the U.S. Constitution stored?
5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of lemurs called?
6. TELEVISION: Which city is the setting for the dramatic series “The Wire”?
7. GEOLOGY: Which country has the most active volcanos?
8. LITERATURE: Which character in a Charles Dickens novel famously said, “Please, sir, I want some more”?
9. ART: Which Dutch artist is considered a master of light and shadow, creating dramatic effects in paintings?
10. SCIENCE: What is an ectothermic animal?
Trivia Test Answerst
1. The Himalayas; 2. “Gone With the Wind”; 3. Neptune; 4. The National Archives; 5. A conspiracy; 6. Baltimore, Maryland; 7. Indonesia; 8. Title character in “Oliver Twist”; 9. Rembrandt; 10. Cold-blooded
Kindersley & District Co-op secures naming rights for new Great Plains College healthcare lab
KINDERSLEY, SK – Great Plains College is proud to announce a significant agreement with Kindersley & District Co-op, who have secured the $25,000 naming rights sponsorship for the new healthcare lab at the college’s Kindersley Campus. This partnership marks a substantial investment in the future of healthcare education in the region.
The agreement, which will be in effect from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2036, will hereby see the new lab space renamed to the “Kindersley & District Co-op Healthcare Lab”.
“When we first announced the Practical Nursing program in Kindersley, we were overwhelmed by the community’s interest and enthusiasm. Many organizations reached out, eager to support healthcare programming in the region,” said Brad Mahon, president & CEO at Great Plains College. “The construction of a new on-site healthcare lab was essential in launching the new Practical Nursing program, and the renovation project presented an opportunity for the community to contribute toward the construction and equipment costs for this new space. Kindersley & District Co-op stepped up immediately, securing the lab naming rights sponsorship and we are tremendously grateful for their generous support of our facility and our students.”
The inaugural Practical Nursing program will see its first students begin their two-year diploma program this September and program planning is well underway, including the construction of the new Kindersley & District Co-op Healthcare Lab. The lab will provide a space for all healthcare program students to practice with equipment and simulate real-life scenarios that will help prepare them for situations they may encounter on the job.
“At Kindersley & District Co-op, we are committed to investing in the health and well-being of our communities,” said Blair Ferner, General Manager of the Kindersley & District Co-op. “Supporting the development of healthcare education through this partnership with Great Plains College is an investment in the future of our trading area. We are proud to assist in creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and ultimately contribute to the care and support of our families right here at home. This healthcare lab represents an investment in the future of our community, and we’re honoured to be apart of that story.”
Applications for the Practical Nursing program close May 31, 2025, but anyone interested in applying is encouraged to do so before the April 30 scholarship
deadline to be considered for an Entrance Scholarship of $500-$5,000. To learn more about the Practical Nursing program or to apply, please visit greatplainscollege.ca/programs-courses/college-trades-university/ practical-nursing or contact Gloria Vielhauer, student adviser, at gloriav@greatplainscollege.ca or 306463-1353.
Lab equipment and scholarship sponsorship opportunities are also still available. To learn more, please contact Brad Mahon, president & CEO at Great Plains College at bradm@greatplainscollege.ca or 306-778-5462.
Kindersley Town Council unveils new park name
On Monday, March 24, 2025, the Kindersley Town Council held its Regular Meeting.
7.1: After receiving over 65 name submissions for the “Name the 7th Street West Park” contest, the Council announced that the new park name is “West Winds Park”! The Council thanks everyone for their contributions and congratulates the individual who submitted this name.
7.2: The Town Council has awarded Gee Bee Construction the contract for the 2025 Watermain Replacement, with an agreement amount of $759,850.00 plus applicable taxes. The Mayor and the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) have been directed to finalize this agreement.
7.3: Finning Canada has been selected as the successful bidder for the purchase of a Mini Excavator, with the tender amount set at $132,779.70.
7.4: The Council has authorized the Mayor
and the Chief Administrative Officer to enter into a three-year agreement with Municipal Sewer Maintenance Ltd. for the cleaning of sanitary sewers within the Town of Kindersley. 8.1: The Town Council has accepted the list of accounts payable by the Town of Kindersley, totalling $312,082.27.
10.1: The Council resolved to approve the Consent Agenda, which includes the following items for acceptance and filing: - Kindersley Museum Minutes - March 11, 2025 - SaskWater Monthly Report - February 2025 - Walking Trail Committee Minutes - March 12, 2025.
LUSELAND CLINIC HOURS
April 2025
Opens at 9 am. Lunch hour varies.
April
April 4 Friday Janelle, NP
April 7 Monday Dr. Mada Wentzel
April 8 Tuesday Dr. Wentzel
April 21 Monday Dr. Mada Wentzel
April 22 Tuesday Dr. Wentzel
April 25 Friday Janelle, NP
April 28 Monday Dr. Mada Wentzel
April 29 Tuesday Dr. Wentzel
PLEASE NOTE: Luseland Clinic will be closed on April 18th for Good Friday.
PLEASE NOTE: Clinic hours are subject to change at any given time.
Blair Ferner, General Manager of Kindersley & District Co-op (L) with Brad Mahon, President & CEO at Great Plains College (R).
Classifieds
HELP WANTED
COMING EVENTS
63rd DRAGGINS CAR SHOW
- April 18 & 19 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon. Check out the “Battle of the Automotive Technicians”!. Draggins Rod & Custom Car Club. Visit our website; Draggins.com.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
NOW HIRING:
AGRICULTURE
QUEEN CITY ANTIQUE & VINTAGE MARKET
Friday, april 11 12 noon - 8 pm
Saturday, april 12 10 am - 4 pm
Callie Curling Club 2225 Sandra Schmirler Way, regina
Admission $6
Antiques, VintAge & ColleCtibles from ACross the prAiries. 306-552-8528 queencityvintage1 @gmail com
FB @queencityvin tagemarket
Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy (road) construction camp this upcoming season. Current location is near Saskatoon, SK. Must have valid driver’s license and safe food handling ticket. Experience in camp setting with 20-30 crew, an asset. Send resume with two work references to: Bryden Construction, Box 100, Aroborfield, SK., S0E 0A0 brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844 www.bryden constructionand transport.ca
HEAVY
EQUIPMENT
OPERATORS
Motor scrapers, dozers, excavators, rock trucks, packers; wide range of machines.
Lots of work all season. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Now HiriNg AG/HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC
Come and develop your meChaniCal skills at our busy well-equipped shop loCated in arCola, sk all skill levels will be Considered We are Willing to apprentice the right candidate we offer Competitive wages, a Comprehensive benefits paCkage and rrsp/dpsp plan housing is available Submit your reSume jjtrucking@sasktel.net Fax: 306-455-2433 ViSit our webSite: www.jjtruckingltd.com
FEED AND SEED
BARLEY
*New - AB StANdSwell* Smooth awn, high yielding, grain and forage great lodging reSiStance 1St NitrogeN uSe efficieNt cereAl iN cANAdA AttrActiNg JApANeSe iNtereSt cerveza cdc auStenSon cdc maverick, Sundre wheAt Pintail, forage or grain oAtS ac JuniPer, ac morgan, ac muStang, derby, cdc So1 SuPer oat peAS very early yellow Pea forage PeaS, AlSo AvAilABle PoliSh canola & SPring triticale mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609
FEED AND SEED
CLASSIFIED AD RATES (20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Friday noon. 306-463-2211
MISCELLANEOUS
AGPRO SEEDS - BUYING HEATED CANOLA, FEED BARLEY & FEED GRAIN. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! For Bids Call/Text: 306-873-0481, Email: sales@agproseeds.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-4051228 www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca
HEALTH
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. 48 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306649.1405 or visit www.swna. com for details. Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306649-1405 to find out how!
WANTED
4 strategies for retaining your employees
Kindersley Chamber’s Career Fair held at KCS
As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.
BY JOAN JANZEN
1. Focus on communication. Communicate openly with your employees. Listen to their concerns and be open to new ideas. Let them know they’re heard and that you take them seriously.
KINDERSLEY - Thirty-six booths were set up in the gym at Kindersley Composite School on Wednesday, March 26th. Various businesses and services presented numerous career options for the students to investigate throughout the day. The Career Fair was hosted by the Kindersley Chamber of Commerce.
2. Think about development. Employees often quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities. Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their po tential, avoid boredom and take on new
20 job ideas for shy or introverted people
Does the thought of social interaction make you feel exhausted or terrified? Prefer to work alone? Most jobs require some degree of communication with other people, but certain positions are particularly appealing to introverts. Here are a few examples that might interest you if you’re considering a career change:
KINDERSLEY REGIONAL PARK Pro Shop Manager for the 2025 Golf and Campground Season
3. Offer benefits. Ask your employees what your company could improve and add these to their benefits and perks. For example, you could include group insurance, paid holidays, yoga classes, flexible working hours and telemedicine.
Kevin Martin from the Chamber said there was plenty of activity throughout the day. It was an excellent opportunity for young people looking to start a career, talk to employers, service providers and participate in some hands-on activities.
4. Get out of the office. Create opportunities for your employees to socialize and have fun in a context that doesn’t revolve around work. Use the opportunity to celebrate their successes.
Employee retention also depends
Responsibilities include the day to day operation of the Pro Shop, managing staff, tournament bookings and registration, helping with coordination of golf tournaments and group bookings, campground registration and inquiries for the campground, ordering confection and cleaning supplies, daily maintenance of the building and area surrounding, and responsible for daily reports. The Pro Shop is open every day from mid-April to October. The hours vary based on day light and weather. The campground is open May 1st to Sept. 30th. Candidates will not be obligated to work all weekends. Training will be provided to the successful applicant. Wages will be discussed based on experience. Candidates will be eligible for EI on the off season. Application deadline: March 31, 2025. Serious inquiries only please. Contact Gwen at 306-463-9590 or Randy at 306-463-4041
How to welcome a teleworking employee
R.M. of Prairiedale No. 321 Seasonal Grader Operator
The Rural Municipality of Prairiedale No. 321 is seeking a seasonal Grader Operator.
The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:
• Have willingness and aptitude to a operate grader as required for the job
• Have knowledge of servicing and maintaining heavy equipment
• Valid Driver’s License
Telecommuting has become increasingly popular in recent years. It allows companies to recruit qualified talent across the globe. If your company is about to welcome a new telecommuting employee, here’s how to do it.
• Have a working knowledge of grading roads
lean on and contact if they need help. This will help them feel at ease.
• Must be capable of working with minimal to no immediate supervision
• Attention to detail, safety conscious, and ability to take direction from Supervisors
• Talk about the company. Describe the company’s mission, values and other information to help the employee develop a sense of belonging.
Duties may include but not limited to:
• Introduce the team. Set up a video chat to introduce the entire team. You can reserve extra time for the employee to get to know the colleagues they’ll be working with directly.
• Operating grader
• Experience operating other equipment is an asset
• Any other tasks assigned by the Supervisor with the direction of Council
• Present your tools. Familiarize the employee with the tools, software and online platforms the company uses daily.
Employment proposed start date is to be determined. The RM of Prairiedale offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package including the Municipal Employees Pension Plan (MEPP).
• Follow up. Make sure the new employee receives feedback from their immediate colleagues in the first few weeks to help them adjust. The recruit should feel free to ask questions without fear of judgment.
HAYLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
Whether you already work in information technology (IT) or are just starting your studies, here are three qualities essential to your success.
Tenders will be accepted on the following parcel of land located in the R.M. of Grass Lake No. 381, approximately 3 miles North and 1 mile East of Salvador, SK:
you must be good at conveying your ideas, making yourself understood and finding the best moments to do so.
3. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
SW 35-37-25 W3rd (municipal assessment - $131,000.00)
1. ANALYTICAL SKILLS
As an IT employee, you’re often required to solve problems. Consequently, you must enjoy challenging yourself and looking for innovative solutions. You must also be inherently curious to stay updated with the latest technologies in a constantly evolving field.
- 140 acres seeded to “Halo” Alfalfa in October, 2023
- 20 acres saline and slough
- Dugout
- 4 wire fence on 3 sides and single wire electric on 4th 5% non-refundable deposit will be required on accepted Tender 10 days after closing.
2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS
IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients. This means
If you want to thrive in IT, you must have exceptional organizational skills. Depending on your job, your colleagues may regularly interrupt you and require you to switch gears constantly. Therefore, you must be well organized and able to multitask to keep up with your workload.
Tenders will be received by the undersigned on or before 12:00 noon on Wednesday, the 9th day of April, 2025.
Do you have these qualities? If so, you have everything you need for a long career in this promising field.
More information available upon request.
Not necessarily the highest or any tender accepted.
COOPER NEIL LAW FIRM
Solicitor for Fred Guth
It’s rare to get your dream job on the first try. Therefore, if you’re offered an entrylevel position, it’s necessary to ask yourself if it’s a good idea to accept it. Here are some tips to help you decide.
Telephone: 306-228-2631 • Fax: 306-228-4449
Email: unityoffice@cooperneil.ca P.O. Box 600, Unity, SK S0K 4L0
WHEN TO ACCEPT
If the job is related to your area of expertise and allows you to use and develop your skills, it may be worthwhile. The job may let you explore a field you’re interested in and help you obtain a better position in the future. The offer may also be attractive if there’s room for career development within the company.
WHEN TO REFUSE
If you sincerely doubt that you’ll enjoy your everyday tasks, the job probably isn’t for you. The same applies if most of your skills and educational achievements don’t apply to the job and won’t contribute to your professional development. Finally, it may be best to refuse the position if the salary is significantly lower than your expectations or if the company has a high turnover rate.
Are you having trouble finding a job that suits you? Consult job hunting resources in your area.
Great Plains College is recruiting for a Manager of Programs - Health Care, based out of our Kindersley campus but with responsibilities throughout our service region.
Reporting to the Vice-President, Programs and Students, the Manager of Programs provides academic leadership for their assigned program portfolio as well as day to day operations management. Working collaboratively with the executive leadership and manager team, the Manager of Programs is responsible for oversight of quality programs, implementation of organizational plans, budgeting, staff leadership and development, employer, industry and community engagement, human resources and assisting with marketing, recruitment and fundraising efforts.
As the ideal candidate, you have a proven track record in health care or educational administration including experience supervising employees. At minimum, your education would reflect the acquisition of a four-year bachelors degree, preferably in health sciences, nursing or a related field. You are knowledgeable about the nature and function of the post-secondary training system and how its graduates impact the health care system of Saskatchewan. You would demonstrate a strong, inclusive leadership style and an exceptional capability for resolving issues in an open and consultative manner.
Start date: May 1, 2025
FTE: 1.0 Permanent
• Offer mentoring. Ensure the new employee knows they have someone they can
All these professions require little or no interaction with others. Are you ready to start your journey towards a job where you’ll feel comfortable every day? Explore training programs in your area to get started.
Are you looking for telecommuting employees to join your team? Do business with a recruitment service.
The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Applicants are invited to submit a resume with driver’s abstract and references to:
RM of Prairiedale No. 321 Box 160 Major, SK S0L 2H0 Fax: 306-834-1202
Email: administrator@rmofprairedale.ca
To apply for this Manager of Programs, Health Care position, email your resume and cover letter, quoting competition #M2-24/25 to: gpchr@greatplainscollege.ca
Include ad spaces to generate revenue from the content on these pages.
Applications received prior to 12:00 pm on April 4, 2025 will be reviewed for this competition. We wish to thank all candidates who apply, however only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
A complete job description for this position can be found on the Great Plains College website: https://www.greatplainscollege.ca/work-us
Harbingers of Spring
BY BERNADETTE VANGOOL
Monte J. Sheppard, BA., JD. Mark L. Millar, BA., JD.
113 1st Ave. E. Kindersley SK S0L 1S0 Bus. 306-463-4647 – Fax 306-463-6133 Kerrobert 306-834-5657 Kindersley.law@sasktel.net
As spring approaches, I am patiently waiting for the snow to subside, to make room for those long-awaited spring blossoms. Many of us are familiar with the crocuses and other small bulbs such as scillas and pushkinias, these dainty flowers that can become naturalized in our yards and provide small flower carpets, pushing through last year’s leaf litter. Whenever I am starting or renewing a flower bed, I incorporate these spring bulbs in the fall of the planting year to give me joy for years to come.
One herald of spring, which is much rarer in the landscape is hepatica. These distinctive simple flowers make their appearance at about the same time as the crocuses but are usually planted in shade to partial shade. The rosettes of new three-lobed leaves spring up after the blue happy flowers have finished blooming Leaves spring up on hairy stems. They have a shiny green leathery surface and are hairy on the undersides. They persist throughout the year and into the following spring. Though faded in spring these leaves begin photosynthesis well before other plants are even up. Resulting in the early dainty flower display.
Hepatica is a genus of herbaceous plant in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). There are from 7 to 12 species of hepatica worldwide. Hepatica hails from Central and Eastern Europe, Asia and also from Eastern North America. Wisconsin is home to two native species, H. acutiloba which is found in rich creek bottoms in sandy alkaline soil and H. Americana which prefers more acidic location on woodland slopes. In these areas they are known to hybridize.
Hepatica in my yard starts blooming in mid April and has a blooming period of a little over two weeks. A single flower emerges one day and then consecutive flowers continue opening over a period of time. The flowers close up in the evening and on rainy days. Most of the flowers are single, but some double-flowered varieties have been developed in Japan where it has been cultivated since the 1700s. The flowers range from purple, to deep blue to pink and white. In my yard the blue varieties seem to be more robust, this may be due to their age in that they have been established longer. If it is a dry spring, I will lightly water hepaticas while in bloom.
Early pollinators, such as carpenter bees, sweat bees and mining bees are attracted to this plant. Hepatica flowers lack nectar, but the pollen is an important food
source for bee larvae.
Hepatica also known as liverleaf, grows to about 5 to 15cm high and a spread of about 20cm. It prefers rich to average well well-drained soil. It does not like the soil to be compacted, so can benefit from a yearly light topdressing of compost. You can also loosen the soil around the plant when gardening in the vicinity. In Britain many enthusiasts, grow these beauties in greenhouses planted in pots of compost.
I obtained my hepaticas from gardening friends and are seldom seen at garden centres. It may be that they are difficult to produce in bulk and perhaps since they bloom so early, may not be an attractive buy for consumers. In the wild, seeds are dispersed by ants, who take the seed, which has a fleshy appendage to their nests. There the seed is discarded and will hopefully germinate to start a new plant away from the mother plant. I am relatively new to hepaticas so have not noticed any seed development on my plants. If you want to try and propagate your beauties, harvest the seeds about 60 days after flowering, and scatter them, where you like them to grow. A more reliable method of propagation is to divide the mother plant in August or September, tease the roots apart and plant your divisions. Keep disturbance to a minimum and plant the new plants right away in rich humus soil in full or partial shade. It is best placed in small clumps with little competition of more robust perennials. Find locations where it can thrive undisturbed for years.
Hepatica Flowers in spring.
Hepaticica leaves, the rest of the year.
PHOTOS BY: BERNADETTE VANGOOL
Small and medium Business Tax Credit arrives in Saskatchewan
The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced legislation that will see the creation of a new Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Tax Credit.
“Small and medium-sized businesses are foundational for the strength of our Provincial economy, during a time when increasing local investment is more important than ever,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. “With this new incentive, more small and medium-size businesses will be able to build equity, allowing them to grow, which leads to more jobs for our growing workforce. This is just one of the many ways that our budget delivers to the people of the province.”
The program is a three-year pilot, which will function similar to the province’s successful Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI). The pilot targets enterprises in the food and beverage manufacturing, and the machinery and transportation equipment sectors.
The program will include a 45 per cent non-refund-
able tax credit for individuals or corporations who invest in the equity of an eligible Saskatchewan SME. It will have an annual cap of $7 million on the total non-refundable tax credits awarded, processed on a first-come first-served basis. An eligible SME is defined as a Saskatchewan-based business with between five and 49 employees, with a minimum of 50 per cent of those employees residing in Saskatchewan.
Since 2014, the number of small businesses has risen 4.9 per cent in the province.
Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased last year by 17.3 per cent to $14.7 billion, ranking first among provinces for growth. Private capital investment is projected to reach $16.2 billion in 2025, an increase of 10.1 per cent over 2024. This is the second highest anticipated percentage increase among the provinces.
The SME Tax Credit pilot program will be in effect from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2028. The program will begin accepting applications in late 2025.
Pruning Elm Trees in Sask: Important Guidelines
In Saskatchewan, there is an annual ban on pruning elm trees from April 1 to August 31. This restriction helps prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease (DED), a fatal tree disease caused by a fungus that is transmitted by elm bark beetles.
As temperatures rise, these beetles become more active and are drawn to fresh cuts on trees. Pruning during this period increases the risk of infection and jeopardizes the health of your elms.
To maintain the health of your trees and enhance their resistance to various diseases, including DED, it is advisable to prune them before or after the ban period. Additionally, pruning removes dead and dying wood where elm bark beetles may breed, thus decreasing their population
It is crucial to prune trees correctly to avoid damaging them or spreading diseases. If you hire a pro-
GROWING
fessional for pruning, ensure they are qualified. Anyone who prunes elm trees commercially must have completed a recognized training program or be supervised by someone who has.
While you can completely remove an elm tree during the ban period, it is essential to dispose of all elm wood promptly and properly. Contact your local municipality to find out where the designated wood disposal site is in your area.
Moreover, transporting wood can contribute to the spread of DED as well as other insects and diseases. Therefore, it is illegal to use, transport, store, or sell elm firewood. Provincial regulations also restrict the use, transport, storage, and sale of elm logs.
For more information, please contact your municipality, reach out to the Ministry of Environment’s Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224, or visit saskatchewan. ca/forestry.
THROUGH GRIEF: Staying centred within
BY ANGELA CLEMENT
In this time of unrest and unknowns I cannot help but see the process of grief at work in all of us. At a time when we are shaking our heads and wondering how we could possibly be in this space, we are at the same time grieving what was. No it wasn’t perfect, we complained a lot, we still do. But yet the thought of not knowing what lies ahead seems so much worse. Certainly our sense of security is shaking a little as we wonder how bad things could really get. The news does not help us. Let’s face it, these reporters are just as concerned as we are. We all have our own thoughts about what might happen next. Yet no one REALLY knows for sure.
When I lost Blaine, there was a lot of uncertainty. I had no idea how life would go for me. In fact, three years later, it is still unfolding. I know it will continue to unfold as long as I live. I was told life is short, that we need to live life to the fullest and that happiness comes from within and yet losing my best friend and husband of thirty-five years was the thing that helped me completely and fully comprehend the fragility of life in a way I could have never understood otherwise. What I felt when the rug had been ripped out from under my feet was something I cannot fully describe. It was the worst thing I could have ever imagined. There was a lot of fear and for good reason. There was so much I didn’t understand, so much I couldn’t com-
prehend and I felt so alone. And yet now looking back, I see what I have learned through that experience. I learned something about myself and what I truly value in life. I know what I want to stand up for in this life and I know what is important to me. Going through what I went through, those values are front and centre and they govern my every move and how I react to the world around me.
I know that I cannot control the world around me and I also know that I have full control of how I respond to the world. I know that the fear that everyone feels right now can only be conquered with compassion and support for others. We can pull together. So many of us in this country and those neighbours of ours down south are grieving the loss of what we had. We had a sense of security at a certain level and we all can see that perhaps things may drastically change. Yet fighting and reacting with hatred is not what we need. Just like when I lost Blaine, I can drop into my heart, give myself grace, acknowledge my fear and not lose focus on what is good in the world. I trust that if I stay centered within and keep my heart open that I will know exactly how to respond and so will so many others. We all go through this process of grief. This is another opportunity to embrace it and use it to pull together, to support one another and to inspire and give hope at a time when we need it most.
Grief is a pathway to transformation. It is sacred. We all go through it. It is not easy and it is not all bad. Humanity all share this experience in different ways. We can embrace it and allow it to connect us in ways we never knew were possible and teach us things we could not otherwise understand. Sending you lots of love, Angela
Angela Clement
ALSASK
- Drop in Pickleball every Tuesday 8:00 PM at the Alsask Rec Centre. All ages are welcome.
COLEVILLE
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
• Coleville Daycare Committee presents “Surf and Turf For Tots” at the Coleville Community Hall. $65 / ticket available at the Village of Coleville office. Cocktails at 6 PM, Lobster and Kabob Supper at 7 PM. Silent Auction to follow. All funds raised aid in continuing the development of a licensed daycare in Coleville. Contact Stacey at 306-430-7788 for ticket info or if you wish to donate to the event.
DENZIL
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
• Denzil Surf N’ Turf Fest. Supper & Dance at the Denzil Community Hall. Music by Detour. 5:30 & 7:30 PM Supper Seatings available. Silent Auction. No Minors. Dance 9:00 PM - 1:30 AM.
HOOSIER
- Sunday Service Hoosier Community Church 10:30 am at the Community Hall. Contact Joel Hamm 306-460-7056 or Curtis Kornelson 306-460-7327.
KERROBERT
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2
• Adult Paint Night 6:00 PM in the Library
SUNDAY, APRIL 6
• Kerrobert Courtroom Gallery presents founding member Victoria Knorr “Responsive Impressions.” Reception 2:00 PM. Show will be on display until June 30.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8
• Kerrobert & District Wildlife Federation AGM 7:30 PM in the wildlife building.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
• Easter Egg Hunt at the Library starting at 1:00 PM. FRIDAY, APRIL 11
• Kinsmen hosting their 3rd annual Comedy Night at the Prairieland Community Centre. Doors open at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Available at local businesses or contact Darin Sperling 306-834-9061.
APRIL 13-16
• Prairie Sunset Music Festival
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
• Annual Kerrobert & District Wildlife Supper at the Prairieland Community Centre. Doors open at 5:30 PM. Only 300 tickets available. Adults $30; 12 & under $10. Available at Prairie Sky Treasures or contact Jessica 403-443-3480.
- Shuffle Club every Monday from 1:30-3:00 PM at the PCC (216 McPhersons Street).
- Walk This Way Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30 - 11:30 AM at the at the PCC (216 McPhersons Street). All ages. All skill levels. No cost. Bring your indoor shoes. Everyone welcome.
- MS Support Group at Kerrobert Health Centre Meeting Room every 3rd Saturday 2:00-4:00 PM. Contact Gail Wiebe for more information 306-834-7068.
- Kerrobert Courtroom Gallery presents Erin Haight untilMarch 31, 2025. Gallery Hours - Weekdays 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
- Town of Kerrobert Memory Tree program is open. Contact the office for more infomation 306-834-2361.
KINDERSLEY
TUESDAY, APRIL 1
• Westberry Elementary School’s SCC AGM 7:00 PM in Westberry’s Library.
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
• St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Annual Spring Fling 8:3011:30 AM. Pancake breakfast, huge garage sale, bake sale, mini raffles, grocery hamper draw, used clothing, books and much more.
• Kindersley & District Arts Council fundraiser “The Radiant with Curtwood Bearsman” Doors: 7:30 PM at the Norman Ritchie Community Centre. Adults $25, under 18 $10. All ages welcome.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
• Women’s Retreat at Kindersley Alliance Church (74 West Road) 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM. Please preregister 306-361-3733 or adm.swma@gmail.com by April 9th. There is no charge for this event. Opportunity for free-will offering. Speakers, lunch and coffee breaks provided. Topics: Grief Care, Recovering from Despair, Forgiveness and more. Join us for fellowship, worship, prayer ministry, book table and crafts.
SATURDAY, APRIL 26
• Kindersley Screen Arts presents “Goodrich” 4:00 PM at Sunset Theatre. $10 cash at the door.
• The Road Hammers and Julian Austin at the West Central Events Centre. Tickets available at Ticketmaster or the Town of Kindersley office.
THURSDAY, MAY 1
• Kindersley & District Arts Council presents “The Misery Mountain Boys” 7:30 PM at the Norman Ritchie Community Centre.
FRIDAY, JULY 25 - SUNDAY, JULY 27
• Kindersley Claybusters Registered Trap Shoot at the Kindersley Wildlife Federation Shooting Range starting at 1:00 PM on Friday. For info please contact Dan Kachmarski at 306-463-7207.
- Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month 1:30 PM at 401 - 4th Ave West (New Life Church). Everyone welcome! For more info call Nancy at 306-463-4514.
- Monday Night Jam Sessions at the Norman Ritchie Community Centre. Doors open at 6:30 to set-up, then the fun begins at 7-11 PM. Call Keith 306-460-8633.
- Interested in a support group for weight management? TOPS meetings; every Monday at 6:00 PM in the Kindersley Senior Centre OR contact Jill at 306-463-4210.
- PickleBall Indoor Season meets Sunday & Wednesday evenings 7:00-9:00 PM at Elizabeth Middle School gym. Cost is $50 for the season or $5 drop in. More info call Teresa Knight 306-460-7304.
- Fit Fighter Group Class. Helping individuals with Parkinson Disease, Fibromyalgia, MS, Arthritis and mobility issues. Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00 AM at Anytime Fitness. Call Karen 463-3607 for more info.
- The Prairie Crocus Quilt Guild meets on the second Tuesday of each month from September to May at 7:00 pm at the Kindersley Seniors Centre. All levels of quilters and quilt enthusiasts are welcome! If you are interested in joining the group or would like more information, please contact Regan
Overand at 306-460-6467.
- 365 Kindersley Air Cadets meet Thursday evenings at the Kindersley Museum. No charge to be a member, youth ages 12-18, must be a Canadian resident. Contact Ian Kehrer via text at 306-460-0057 or Sheila Kehrer via text 306-6049044. Come Fly With Us!
LUSELAND
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
• Luseland Daycare Fundraiser “Spring Back in Time” (Dress as your favourite decade) at the Luseland Community Hall. Doors open: 5:30 PM. Supper: 6:00 PM. Catered by Wes & Nona Holtz. Time of Your Life Entertainment Dance: 9:00 PM. Get your tickets now! Monica Streberg at 306-228-1263. $50 ($20 dance only at the door).
- Luseland Library Art Gallery presents “Color. Light. Connection” by Debra Scholer (This Little Light Photography). Come see the unbelievable technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills of a local photographer.
- The Luseland Homecoming Hall will be available for indoor walking on TUESDAY & THURSDAY mornings. Please pick up the key at the Town Office to unlock the door. Silver collection at the door.
Recurring events at The Luseland Pioneers Club: PUBLIC
- Every Monday 2:00-4:00 PM Coffee
- Last Monday of the month 2:00-4:00 PM Pie ’n Ice Cream MEMBERS
- Monday-Saturday 8:30 AM - Noon, Coffee, Pool, Cards, Visiting
- Tuesday 1:00-4:00 PM Cards
- Tuesday 7:00-10:00 PM Games
- Wednesday 1:00-4:00 PM Cards
- Thursday 1:00-4:00 PM Cards
- Third Friday of the month Birthday Lunch at noon.
MAJOR
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
• Major Re Board Steak Shoot. Live & Silent Auction, Gun Raffle, Family Fiendly. Entertainment by Dueling Pianos.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
• 2nd Annual Kindersley West Central Crisis Centre Fundraiser at the Major Hall. Starts at 5:30 PM. Featuring Jordyn Pollard, Laura Hayes, Superb Sound & Friends. Special Guest: Cole Patton. Silent Auction. Door Prizes, Food & Drinks. Tickets are available at the door. All ages welcome!
- MS Support Group at Kerrobert Health Centre Meeting Room every 3rd Saturday 2:00-4:00 PM. Contact Gail Wiebe for more information 306-834-7068.
PLENTY
SATURDAY, MAY 3
• Plenty’s 6th Annual Quilt Show “Stitching Together, a Community” 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at the Plenty United Church on Main Street. Admission by donation. Luncheon served from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM in the church basement. Featuring quilts by local quilt makers and special exhibits including our group quilt challenge and artwork by local artists. Special opening address at 11:00 AM by Carol Schmold.
