The Kerrobert Chronicle - March 25, 2025

OPINION: Saskatchewan’s chance to lead while Alberta throws a tantrum

SASQUATCH BY SHERI MONK Guest Columnist

A friend of mine is a tattoo artist. When Trump’s rhetoric about making us the 51st state escalated, I asked him to let me know if he received any “Made in Canada” tattoo requests. Sure enough, within about a week, the requests began. Clearly, these people believe strongly in their Canadian identity—enough that they wanted to do something more permanent than boycotting the orange man and orange citrus fruit.

Over the years, pundits have long mused that Canada’s identity is simply that we aren’t American. And while they may not be entirely wrong, they’ve certainly oversimplified the matter. To really analyze what that means, we must look at what we think of America’s values and why we haven’t wanted to share that identity.

A disclaimer—my best friend is American. I have spent a lot of time in that country. As Edward Abbey would say, I am a desert rat. The Great Plains and the American Southwest are the landscapes that speak to my heart. The idea of being cut off from the lush Sonoran Desert or the understated Chihuahuan Desert invokes a sense of loss and grief. In other words, like most Canadians, I am not inherently anti-American. In the past, why didn’t we want to be confused for Americans? Well, in contrast to Canadians, they were pretty arrogant and boastful. They tended to be centrist and ignorant of the world around them. They were late to the very wars that actually mattered to democracy and freedom - despite claiming to be the global headquarters of both. (But at least they showed up.) They’ve been historically hyperbolic, exaggerating their importance and victories while downplaying their weaknesses and defeats. Their foreign policy has long been cloaked in the same fabric of false freedom they’re now hanging by. In the past, we were able to overlook this in the same way we tolerate a boorish, demanding uncle at the Thanksgiving supper table who won’t wear hearing aids and dominates the conversation. (Canadian Thanksgiving, of course.)

Today’s United States feels more malignant, but maybe they were always on this path. Maybe they were at stage one and at some point, their ignorance and arrogance metastasized. Maybe this is the path humanity will be on forever—the same endless cycle that repeats with different names, nations, and nemeses. Nonetheless, we have a front-row seat for a show very few of us wanted to see—the separation of church and state unifying behind a corporate iron curtain.

If Canada is able to negotiate a trade agreement with the U.S., what then? Do we simply carry on as though nothing has happened? Do we happily peddle our wares and dismiss our concerns about their crum-

bling democracy or the ease with which they turned against us? What of our own ethics and morals? Do we have any? Do they have a price tag? Is that price in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, or Alberta rubles?

What about China? Economists and business leaders want to mend fences with the Red Dragon. We’ve long accepted they’re a fickle trading partner that will leverage fake trade disputes on a whim if it suits them. They also have a terrible human rights record, and it was recently learned they executed four Canadians on drug charges. Yes, there is a FAFO argument to be made here, but is this a bed partner we really want to seduce?

So what are our values? Do we believe in freedom? Freedom of what, exactly? It may be a good time to brush up on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms—a little check-in to see if all those freedoms and rights still resonate with you.

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that for the majority of us, yes, we still value freedom and rights as they’re defined in the Charter. If that’s the case, we need to think about how we conduct business and who we conduct it with. Sure, maybe right now we are scrambling to stave off economic disaster, and we simply don’t have the luxury of walking away from potential deals. I don’t want to lose my job or my home any more than anyone else does. But we do need to figure out our values and whether we care to carry those values into trade negotiations.

Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Premier Danielle Smith last week, and her post was dripping with the same escalatory language we’ve come to expect from the current American administration. It was loaded with the thinly veiled threat of separation and allowed no room for diplomacy, negotiation, complexity, or nuance. Its black-and-white, elementary-school approach will appeal to people with black-and-white, elementary-school thinking. In uncertain times, it can be incredibly appealing to cling to anyone or anything that expresses certainty with confidence—but that doesn’t make it right.

Saskatchewan has an opportunity right now to be the reasonable middle that bridges Alberta with the rest of Canada. Long dismissed by many as flat, inconsequential, and boring, Saskatchewan could be our shining star on the national stage. Advancing conversations around national pipelines without the eye-rolling victim mentality that Alberta loves to wear could be a good start. Strong on economics and (fair) trade while sitting on a mountain of potash at the epicentre of Canada’s breadbasket is a good place to be when you want to win friends and influence people.

Right now, Saskatchewan is eyed as the eager younger sibling to Alberta, in the same way Alberta is seen as desperate to hang out with Uncle Sam at American Thanksgiving. Saskatchewan could be the wise old owl providing a port in the storm of a Canadian identity crisis. Average Canadians may be expressing their geopolitical anxiety in the grocery store aisle, but as a nation, we have a lot more to decide than which can of soup to buy.

Sheri Monk

Emerald Lounge celebrates one year

BY JOAN JANZEN

KINDERSLEY - Despite the constant flow of negative news we hear on our devices, success stories are happening in our own communities. Kelly Skappak, owner of Emerald Lounge in Kindersley, has successfully served tasty food to her customers for the past year.

When asked what keeps her going to work each day, she laughed and said, “That’s a great question. Coffee? Honestly, it’s knowing that I am building a better life for my children. If it wasn’t for that, it would just be work. More than anything, I want this to be the thing everybody has been asking for.”

She’s found Kindersley to be very supportive, and most of her customers are local. She also has had adult and youth hockey teams frequent the Emerald Lounge at the Kindersley Golf Course. “They have conversations with people at the rink who suggest coming here. It’s a good location and holds seventy-five people,” she explained.

In December, only private parties were held at the lounge, which was very successful. “We were booked every day,” she said. The groups appreciate having everything supplied at one location: the venue, caterer, bartender and clean-up.

The past year has been a learning curve for Kelly and her staff. They have confirmed operating hours and are listening to what people have said they want.

Kelly stressed the importance of consistently providing quality homemade meals. She’s had customers say they appreciate having a restaurant where they know the food is homemade and they know what to expect.

“It doesn’t matter what the issue is, the customer needs to be happy and satisfied and willing to come back,” she said. After all, her customers are her best advertisers.

“I have a lot of dairy-free and gluten-free people who come in, and they are confident they’ll get what they need,” she said. “Customers are so grateful we’re a restaurant that cares.”

Even when customers make a critical comment in a positive way, Kelly said, “I’m totally OK with that. I want to be better.”

Ninety percent of her groceries are purchased locally, and she recently started using tallow instead of seed oils for deep frying. “A lot of people wanted it, so once I found a supplier, I made the change.”

But at the end of the day, the most satisfying aspect

BY JOAN JANZEN

of serving for Kelly and her staff is when a night goes well and they’re all working together as a team. “My staff likes working here, and they’re excited when a night goes well and customers are happy. It’s just a good feeling!” Kelly said.

Growing Smiles fundraiser ushers in spring for Prairie Branches

BY JOAN JANZEN

KERROBERT - If you’re looking for signs of spring, Prairie Branches has some good news! Once again, they are conducting their Growing Smiles fundraiser in Kerrobert, selling beautiful plants and flowers. Orders can be placed online by May 5th and will be ready for pick up in Kerrobert on May 20th. Marissa Merkel, Executive Director, said proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to purchase a new barbecue for the group home in Kerrobert. “The fund-

raiser is very well supported by the local community, including people from Major and Luseland,” Marissa said. Approximately 100 orders were placed during last year’s fundraiser, and they hope this year’s fundraiser will be even better.

They are selling beautiful plants, including geraniums, roses, petunias, marigolds, indoor foliage, herbs, and veggies, as well as potting soil and fertilizer. Meanwhile the clients at Kerrobert are looking forward to being on hand on May 20th to unload and sort the orders and make any required deliveries.

Kelly Skappak is celebrating her first year anniversary as owner of Emerald Lounge at the Kindersley Golf Course. “It’s a good feeling when a night goes well and customers are happy,” she said.

PHOTO

Mayor Francis announces upcoming projects and plans

BY JOAN JANZEN

KINDERSLEY — Spring

is a time to usher in new projects and plans for the Town of Kindersley. Mayor Ken Francis is pleased to announce the CN Rail crossing extension on Ditson Drive will be moving forward after an extensive delay.

“The cost was the biggest inhibiting factor,” Mayor Francis explained. “We’ve bumped some other paving and road projects back a year or two so we can stay on budget.”

Construction will depend on CN’s schedule but will likely get underway in 2026. Completing this project will be advantageous for Caleb Village and the proposed Kinder College, as it connects the Rosedale subdivision to the area behind Walmart.

The town is also discussing plans for

renovations or replacement options for the Elks Hall. Meanwhile, the West Central Events Centre received a few upgrades, and Pathway to Wellness has been approved for an expansion project. However, the timing of this project has yet to be determined.

Chief Administrative Officer Audrey Hebert has announced her plans to retire in the fall of 2025. Therefore, interviews will be scheduled as the town seeks to employ a new CAO.

Mayor Francis will attend his first SUMA convention in April, where he will network and meet with ministers and suppliers of goods and services. There’s excitement in the air as preparations are being made for Kindersley’s upcoming concert featuring The Road Hammers and Julian Austin.

Be wary of $100 bills

We received an email note from a local bank manager in Kindersley regarding counterfeit $100 bills.

“We have seen 2 fake $100 bills in the last 3 business days. These bills are more orange in colour than the normal brownish $100 bills you see,” wrote

Louise Falk, branch manager of TD Canada Trust.

Business owners are asked to use caution when excepting $100 bills.

Please contact the local RCMP if you find anything suspicious.

Budget delivers record funding to support Saskatchewan agriculture

Saskatchewan’s 2025-26 Budget continues the government’s strong commitment to the agriculture industry with record funding of $625.0 million an increase of $54.6 million from the previous year.

“With this budget, we will continue to deliver the programs and services producers need, while investing in the long-term success of the industry,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “The budget will support Saskatchewan’s ranchers, farmers and agri-businesses to take on the challenges they face while continuing to meet the rising global demand for sustainably produced, nutritious food.”

Through the federal-provincial Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership, this year’s Agriculture budget allocates $483.8 million to continue funding a strong, existing suite of business risk management programs, including Crop Insurance and AgriStability. The budget includes $89.4 million for programs to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of the agriculture sector.

Program funding supports a wide range of initiatives including:

• Innovative work on pest biosecurity, disease surveillance and invasive weeds;

• Research to develop solutions to new emerging problems;

• Farm safety research; and

• An agriculture mentorship program.

Agriculture research remains a top priority in Saskatchewan and this budget invests $37.0 million to help producers stay competitive and profitable in international markets. Over

the past five years, the province has invested more than $166.0 million in key personnel at our crop and livestock research facilities, in research chairs to advance strategic priorities and in research projects that demonstrate innovative technologies to producers and agronomists at the local level.

The agricultural industry is foundational to Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan with several 2030 targets focused on agriculture. One target includes increasing Saskatchewan’s value-added agriculture revenue to $10.0 billion by 2030, and the sector is on track to meet that. This sector is one of the fastest growing in Canada with annual revenue that has more than doubled since 2012, from $3.5 billion to an estimated $7.9 billion in 2023-24.

The province is also on track to achieve the Growth Plan target of increasing crop production to 45 million metric tonnes by 2030. Despite some challenging dry conditions in several areas, Saskatchewan’s crop production totalled 35.5 million metric tonnes in 2024, marking a 7.8 per cent increase year-over-year and four per cent above the five-year average.

“Agriculture is a critical contributor to Saskatchewan’s economy and deeply integrated into the lives of people all across the province,” Harrison said. “We are fortunate to be able to rely on our agriculture producers to help us meet our Growth Plan targets for 2030, because they are the best in the world at what they do - and in many ways they are doing it more sustainably than anyone else.”

Kindersley RCMP investigating fatal collision

On March 17, 2025, at approximately 8:55 p.m., the Kindersley RCMP received a report of a three-vehicle collision on Highway #7, about 11 kilometres west of Kindersley, near Pinkham Road. Officers, along with local fire services and EMS, responded to the scene.

The investigation revealed that a car had collided with a truck that was broken down on the highway. Subsequently, a second car crashed into the first car. The driver of the truck, who was outside of the vehicle at the time of the collision, was declared deceased at the scene

by EMS. He has been identified as an 81-year-old male from Alberta, and his family has been notified.

The male driver of the first car and the female driver of the second car were both taken to the hospital by EMS with injuries that are considered non-life-threatening.

Highway #7 was temporarily closed but has since been reopened. The Kindersley RCMP continue to investigate, with assistance from a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.

Mayor Ken Francis

OPINION: Don’t be fooled on April Fools

BY JOAN JANZEN

As April Fools Day is just around the corner, a few people shared their favourite pranks. A teacher who taught one of two Grade 5 classes in her school recalled an April 1st morning. All of her students went to her teammate’s room, and all of his students came into her room, entering the classrooms as if all was normal. “It was hilarious, and we were so proud of them,” their teacher said.

Another teacher, who was noticeably pregnant, filled an empty mayonnaise tub with vanilla pudding and proceeded to eat it during class. She thought it was the perfect prank until one of her students threw up.

Yet another teacher left a chocolate-covered raisin on his desk. During class, he yelled, “Bug!” grabbed a book, smashed the chocolate raisin, and then ate it. “I do it every year,” he said. The kids love it!”

Last of all, a son recalled, “My dad asked my mom to marry him on April Fools Day. She always said the joke was on him because she said yes!”

As Canadians flip their calendars to April 1, it might feel like they’re being bombarded with pranks from all sides, from within our own country. A carbon tax hike that’s supposedly cancelled, but not really cancelled because it’s still costing you money as you’ll get hit with it even when it’s hidden. And as Leighton Grey observed on Bridge

City News, “The fact that we have to hope for an election is part of the problem isn’t it?”

Brian Lilley from the Toronto Sun was also interviewed on Bridge City News and said, “Mark Carney is saying we need the industrial carbon tax if we want to sell our oil and gas into Europe, which isn’t true.” Is it another prank on Canadians?

When Brian was asked how the Liberal party differs now that it is under new leadership, he replied: “All of a sudden, they’re worried about these industries that they wanted to forget ever existed. I don’t think there’s any difference. It’s the same group with the same policies that brought us to this position where immigration doesn’t work, housing doesn’t work, nothing works in the country, and we gotta fix it.” Does it sound like an April Fools prank to you?

David Freiheit, former Montreal litigator, informed his online audience he recently discovered Mark Carney is the godfather to the son of Chrystia Freeland. That’s the same Chrystia Freeland who was opposing him in the Liberal leadership race. “It’s a tightly knit group, and Canadians aren’t in it,” David said. If only it was an April Fool’s prank.

Franco Terrazzano from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) made the following report: on April 1, MPs will receive a pay raise ranging from $6,700 all the way up to $13,400. This

will be their sixth pay raise since the beginning of 2020. “So much for we’re all in this together,” he added. But that’s not all …

Remember when Justin Trudeau waved goodbye on camera? The CTF reported that he is taking two taxpayer-funded pensions along with him, which amount to $8.4 million until he reaches 90. Did someone say ‘April Fools’? I’m afraid not.

The National Citizens Coalition’s (NCC) newsletter commented on Mark Carney’s recent encounter with a CBC journalist. “When pressed on his failure to fully disclose his corporate ties from his banking days, his global consulting days, and his net zero days he snapped dismissing it as irrelevant noise and told the CBC to look inside itself for daring to ask him about his millions of dollars in conflicts and refused to come clean,” the NCC newsletter observed. And Carney wasn’t joking either.

Dan MacTeague was interviewed on Bridge City News. He is president of Canadians for Affordable Energy and spent 40 years serving in various capacities in the Liberal Party, but noted the Liberal party isn’t what it used to be.

Dan said, “They never really did a cost-benefit analysis on the second carbon tax. With the help of Professor Ross McKitrick, an economist specializing in environmental economics and policy analysis, Dan said their analy-

sis showed that for every dollar of benefit obtained from the second carbon tax, it also cost consumers $6 at the end of the day.” Sounds like a prank, right?

An observation in the Epoch Times observed: “Net-zero policies have been Carney’s focus and will likely stay his government’s priority.”

Dan MacTeague continued his comments and didn’t pull any punches, saying, “I’ve said this right from the outset - this is the man behind the levers of the government during the past five years. If you like what’s happened in Canada the past five years, OK. But if you know there’s a problem, then you must vote accordingly and make sure these people are not returned to power any time soon. This election is about how vulnerable we’ve made ourselves by making some really awful political choices. It’s time for Canadians collectively to smarten up.”

April 1 may be designated as a day for pranks; however Dan MacTeague is determined he won’t be fooled. “Mark Carney is no fool, but he has a lot of people who are willing to be duped and I’m not one of them,” he concluded.

A wise man once said, “The truth will set you free.” So have fun on April Fools Day, but in real-life scenarios, I hope you don’t fall for any pranks.

Pop89: A Dear John Letter to America

BY MADONNA HAMEL

Back in my days as a reporter, I interviewed the researcher Michael Adams about his intensive studies concerning the differences between The States and Canada. His books “Fire and Ice” and “Unlikely Utopia” confirmed for me what I witnessed and experienced living in the States on and off over the years: Despite how many Americans see us as basically the same as them, we’re really quite different. If you’re Canadian, you already know this; if you’re American, this may –still – come as a surprise.

I want to say from the start that not ALL Americans are as ignorant of their neighbours up North. However, I offer an analogy that was used by Adams in

H (Section 66 of the Act)

Notice of Call for Nominations

TOWN OF EATONIA MUNICIPAL BY-ELECTION

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of:

Councillor: Town of Eatonia Number to be Elected: 1 will be received by the undersigned on the 16th day of April, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Eatonia Town Office, 202 Main Street AND during regular business hours on March 25th to April 15th, 2025, at the Eatonia Town Office, 202 Main Street. Nomination forms may be obtained at the following locations:

Eatonia Town Office, 202 Main Street Town’s Website - www.eatonia.ca

Dated this 25th day of March, 2025.

Cheryl Bailey, Returning Officer

Time to visit cousins and ancestral territories. Time to value each other.

Let’s take a trip, as a family, by train, cross-country on VIA

his books, and recently, by Mark Carney (Look it up!) in a chat with Jon Stewart: When describing Canada’s relationship with the States, picture us as the woman in the relationship.

I used this analogy when living in Quebec just as their referendum to separate from the rest of the country was about to take place. If you are an American you may or may not know that we have a province wherein everyone, virtually exclusively, speaks French. To continue the analogy Quebec would be one of 13 kids you’d adopt if you went through with your forced marriage to us.

And by the way, what do you think is happening when interviews on Canadian news are suddenly voiced-over in French? It’s because politicians, when addressing the country, move between French and English, our two official languages. Tu comprends? Je ne pensais pas. (Look it up!) (Recherchez-le!)

As I was saying, Quebec was about to separate, but Canada claimed Quebec had no right to leave, we were married, after all. Quebec said, don’t worry, we can still be friends. In the end the two worked it out, though some of our offspring will say the unification was at their expense. So, imagine now, that some bigger power on steroids thinks he can just move in, when he doesn’t even know the offspring’s names! (Look them up!)

But seriously, if you think you can just move in because you make more money than us and that somehow makes you desirable, we’ve got news for you. Other people like us, too. And frankly, they know a little bit more about us. As Carney said: “We’re resetting the relationship and we’re going to be stronger going forward…. But it can’t just be transactional, not after all we’ve shared together.”

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST TOWN OF EATONIA

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are paid before the 26th day of May, 2025, a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A

the amount shown against each parcel.

In “Fire and Ice,” Michael Adams argued that, despite the two countries’ profound and many

historical, demographic, and geographic similarities, and the ubiquity of American popular culture in Canada, Canadians and Americans increasingly view the world differently, especially when it comes to matters ranging from religion, authority, and the family, to entertainment, consumption, and civic life.

In a TVO (Look it up!) interview Adams explained how his survey group Environics asked Canadians and Americans 1400 different values questions. And, to put it in a nutshell, he summed up the data to describe America in a way that may upset, but can’t surprise, too many Americans: “America is where dad is the head of a household and gets up every Sunday morning, picks up his semi-automatic and says, OK kids, we’re going to church.”

The idea of “American First”, he continues, grew out of the image of America as a melting pot. On the other hand, Canadians view (though don’t always live) their country as a mosaic. We embraced the word “diversity” before it became policy. On occasion we celebrate our diversity rather than just tolerate it, although violence against immigrants has increased in both countries since Adams’ last big survey. But, our future depends upon it. We will need to listen to each other as a family and grow in appreciation of each other from coast to coast. Especially if we don’t want the bully from below to move himself, his mob, his furniture, flags and fixtures into our homes, our yards, our public and private sacred spaces, which includes a vast wilderness under our protection and stewardship.

Come to think of it, what is really needed is a Canadian understanding of all our relations! Time to visit cousins and ancestral territories. Time to value each other. Let’s take a trip, as a family, by train, cross-country on VIA (Look it up!). Having taken the transnational train trip half a dozen times myself, I keep falling deeper in love with this country, in all its raw and homespun gorgeousness. (VIA really does need to cash in on this moment.)

And don’t skip Quebec! Especially if you feel like dancing all night, being kissed on each cheek with every new greeting, and drinking outstanding craft beers. Quebec is a most “European of non-European” province.

America, we are not your cowed girlfriend. Even though you might assume we never have any opinions of our own. Or that we’re “nice” (read: civil) because we just didn’t want to start a fight, though a fight is most often pointless, immature, and frankly a waste of our time.

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Rural Municipality of Mariposa No. 350

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Mariposa No. 350 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days:

Monday to Friday, March 28th to May 28th, 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 adiscuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the R.M. of Mariposa No. 350, Box 228, Kerrobert, SK, S0L 1R0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $20 appeal fee per parcel, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Krystal Bazylinski at the address stated below: The Secretary of the Board of Revision c/o Krystal Bazylinski Box 130, Luseland, Sask. S0L 2A0 by the 28th day of May, 2025.

We’re lovers, not fighters. (It’s that French blood.) Not to mention the ancient Indigenous wisdom tradition that welcomes All Our Relations (Look it Up!). As for our cultural creations, they tend more to the musical and literary variety. The only Canadian movie poster featuring a smouldering dude or chick wielding a gun is bound to be a SCTV (Look it Up!) or This Hour Has 22 Minutes skit. The self-serious smile of a Hollywood icon is not our style - our theatrical influences come from our British and French heritage, where character actors play real people and are not expected to exit gracefully after they turn 40.

Dated this 28th day of March, 2025.

Kathy Wurz, Assessor

In closing this Dear “Don” letter, I’ll say: Telling us we’re “beautiful” and that you’ll “cherish” us forever doesn’t fool us; you just want to own our assets so you’re free to plunder without having to pay. You don’t know us, but we know you.

President’s Trophy not worth the risk for Jets

BY BRUCE PENTON

Canadian hockey fans, particularly those on the Prairies, can only hope the Winnipeg Jets fade slightly down the stretch of the long, 82-game grind that is the National Hockey League’s regular season.

Why? Because the President’s Trophy Curse awaits.

BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist

Not since 2012-13 — a dozen years ago — has the team finishing first overall in the NHL regular-season standings gone on to win the Stanley Cup, the shiny bauble that Jets’ fans are hoping captain Adam Lowry carries around the ice in celebration on some warm night in June.

So, say Jets’ fans, take it away, Washington. It’s all yours. Please.

The Jets and Capitals have been the 1-2 teams for most of the NHL season and while most of the attention with Washington has centred around Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record, the fact that coach Spencer Carbery’s overachieving Capitals have dominated the Eastern Conference has been somewhat overlooked.

Winnipeg hasn’t been so lucky in flying under the radar. The Scott Arniel-coached Jets got off to an historically quick start (14-1 in November) and have slowed only slightly. In mid-March, the Jets were the best team in the Western Conference in almost every statistical category: Wins (46 in 67 games), points (96, 10 better than runner-up Dallas), goal differential in the entire NHL (plus 80, 11 better than runner-up Washington). As well, goalie Connor Hellebuyck was the league’s dominant netminder,

posting a 39-9 record in the Jets’ first 67 games, leading the league with a 1.97 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage. His name has circulated prominently in Most Valuable Player conversations, but unfortunately, goaltenders rarely win.

But back to the President’s Trophy: In 2022-23, Boston Bruins set a record for most points in a season (135), but were beaten in the first round of the playoffs. Last year, the New York Rangers were No. 1 during the regular season, but lost in the conference final to Florida. Seven President’s Trophy winners since 2000 have been sidelined in Round 1. If the season ended after 67 games, the Jets would find themselves playing Vancouver Canucks in the first round and then likely either Dallas or Colorado in the second round. Both the Stars and Avalanche loaded up at the trade deadline, are definite Stanley Cup contenders, and would be tough to beat..

In 37 years, the President’s Trophy winner has gone on to win the Stanley Cup only eight times. Does the chase down the stretch for the President’s Trophy lead to exhaustion for the winner, rendering weaker their playoff hopes? Or is it just dumb (bad) luck? Is home-ice advantage through every round worth the extra effort to finish first overall? Hockey analyst Pierre McGuire says teams like Cup contenders Florida and Colorado are “pacing themselves,” realizing it’s more important to be playing their best at the right time rather than win a “fabricated trophy.”

Ask any Jet which piece of silverware they’d prefer to win and it’s no contest.

Ask any Jet which piece of silverware they’d prefer to win and it’s no contest. Let the Caps have the President’s Trophy. The curse is real.

Let the Caps have the President’s Trophy. The curse is real.

• Matt Miller on Bluesky.app: “If you’re a former first-round pick that has failed to live up to expectations, the Cowboys want you.”

• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen, on the long-time Bruin being traded to Florida: “Brad Marchand gonna put the rat back into Boca RATon.”

• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe. com, on the NCAA basketball tournament: “Maybe they should consider a name change. At this point they could get sued by Trump’s DOJ for using the term ‘March Madness’.”

• Greg Cote of the Miami Herald, on Aaron Rodgers’ future: “Some are still intoxicated by whatever perfume is left of Rodgers’ Hall of

Fame career. They would note he was pretty good in the second half of last season for the Jets.”

• A note from fark.com, after a 14-foot alligator took over a green on a golf course: “Golf does not allow taking naps on the green even if you are 14 feet long.”

• Columnist Norman Chad, with another thing overheard from the fourlegged competitors at the Westminster Dog Show in New York: “Little-known dog fact: The Australian terrier chases its tail counterclockwise.”

•Ontario columnist Keith Schell, reminiscing about a CFL transaction in the early 2000s when the Winnipeg Blue Bombers released Tom Europe and signed Tom Canada: “Don Cherry would be proud.”

• Jessica Hadwin, wife of PGA Tour player Adam Hadwin, as the two were driving away from Sawgrass Saturday morning after Adam missed the cut at the Players on Friday: “Look at these losers, having to work on the weekend.”

• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun, on why Mitch Marner may ultimately choose to leave the Leafs, according to a hockey insider: “He’s tired of being the public piñata of the team.”

• Another one from Simmons, after a recent Toronto Raptors’ winning streak: “The poor Raps, trying so hard to tank and wind up in lottery pick position, can’t stop winning.”

Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca

TAX TIPS

Sold Your Home?

If you sold your home this year, make sure to designate it as your principal residence when you file your tax return. Failure to do so could result in the principal residence exemption being denied, which could result in the capital gain being taxable.

H&R BLOCK®

128 B - 1st Ave. West, Kindersley

JUDY BREWER 306-463-4399

OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Alcoholics Anonymous

Get help with substance abuse.

Monday: Kindersley AA Meeting

8:00 PM, Legion Hall, 118 - 2nd Avenue East

AA Upstairs, Alanon Downstairs

Tuesday: Brock AA Meeting

8:00 PM, Vesper Club, 1st Avenue North

Tuesday: Leader AA Meeting

8:00 PM, Leader United Church, 1st St. W.

Wednesday: Eston AA Meeting

8 PM, St. Andrew’s United Church, 1st St. W.

Friday: Kindersley AA Meeting

8:00 PM, Lutheran Church, 807 - 3rd Ave. W.

Narcotics Anonymous

Tuesday: Kindersley NA Meeting

7:30 PM, 113 Main Street

LUSELAND CLINIC HOURS

April 2025

Opens at 9 am. Lunch hour varies.

April 1 Tuesday Dr. Wentzel

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.

Deputy Chief Mitchel Hope receives well-deserved accolades

Kindersley Fire, along with the Town of Kindersley and Kindersley RM of 290, would like to congratulate Deputy Fire Chief Mitchel Hope for his outstanding achievements as Kindersley Fire Department Public Education Officer.

Deputy Chief M. Hope is a second-generation firefighter, joining the service in February 2003 at the age of sixteen. Mitch was part of a junior fire program that allowed him to train and respond to calls with a few restrictions. Quickly finding a passion for public education, Mitch would volunteer to assist in every event possible.

Mitch has always had a passion for learning, continually working to better himself and Kindersley Fire. Shortly after his high school graduation, he started to work towards his international fire certificates. In October 2006, Mitch completed his Hazmat Operation and Awareness and October 2007, he finished his level 2 Professional Firefighter (IFSTA NFPA 1001). Since that time, Mitch has completed his interprovincial Red Seal Electrician, Level 1 Fire Instructor (IFSTA 1041), Brandon Fire College’s Fire Ground Management, ICS 100 and ICS 200, and many other certifications in various rescue techniques. Deputy Chief Hope continues to push his education and is currently completing the IFSTA Fire and Life Safety Educator accredited course.

The Fire Service is not the only place Mitch volunteers and commits his time. As a single father of 2 young girls, he is always on the go. Mitch has assisted in coaching his daughter’s various sports and stepped up whenever help was needed for things like fundraising and clothing orders. He has sat on the Kindersley Minor Ball board as a ball coordinator and was the U9 softball league president for 2 years.

Expanding from fire safety, Mitch has worked with multiple agencies to educate students about the risks and dangers of impaired driving. In 2007, Mitch organized State Trooper, Michael Buckingham, to present his story and lesson plan to schools across West Central Saskatchewan. Mitch partnered with the RCMP and multiple fire departments, allowing for this impactful presentation to be shared. Deputy Chief Hope continues to bring new ideas to Kindersley’s Public Education Program, making it one of the top programs in Saskatchewan – if not Western Canada, according to Fire Chief Jeff Soveran.

In the past number of years, Mitch has made several proposals, such as a fire service public education trailer, a firefighter tower training prop, and a simulation training maze. Working with Fire Chief Jeff Soveran and the members of Kindersley Fire, these proposals have become a reality – assisting in training firefighters from Kindersley and the rest of Saskatchewan while working towards Chief Soveran’s goal of a regional fire training facility.

Fit course and other props to assist fire departments in community engagement and recruiting programs.

Utilizing the same platform that was developed for the Public Education Trailer, the Event Trailer will be available to other communities. DC Hope has also worked with and gained the support of the SAFC (Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs) and the SVFFA (Saskatchewan Volunteer Fire Fighters Association), leading to partnerships regarding the Public Education Trailer, its programs and contributing to its success.

Deputy Chief M. Hope has created a succession plan by working with various partners and sponsors to ensure the sustainability of the Public Education Trailer and its programs for the next 10 years. He has also developed guidelines to make it possible for other organizations, communities, and fire departments to access the trailer. Thus, making fire education training available in ways that many communities have not been able to access on their own.

Mitch has also worked with Kindersley Fire’s Public Education Team to put a second, smaller, event trailer together. Built through sponsorships and partnerships, this trailer houses a Fire

Deputy Chief Mitchel Hope continues to volunteer with the SAFC Public Education Team, promoting fire safety across Saskatchewan while supporting Saskatchewan Fire Departments. He has also started his own personal venture with firefighters from neighbouring communities and his partner, Robyn. They work with schools and Fire Departments to raise money to assist in public education and equipment purchases. Additionally, Mitch and company promote public and firefighter safety by speaking at conventions, conferences, and schools.

The hard work, passion and dedication that Mitch has put into his work has not gone unnoticed.

On February 3, 2023, Mitch was invited to Regina to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal presented by SUMA. February 26, 2025, DC Hope was invited to Ottawa to be given the EMESA Award (Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award) presented by Jeffrey Hutchinson (Associate Deputy Minister of Public Safety Canada) and Sherry Romanado (Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness). March 8, 2025, Mitch was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in Swift Current by M.P. Jeremy Patzer.

Each has been awarded for his exemplary service and continued commitment to fire safety and public education in his community, province and county. Mitch has worked to bring educational tools, equipment and programs into Schools, Business and Senior complexes all over West Central Saskatchewan and beyond.

We would like to Thank Deputy Chief Mitchel Hope for his 19+ years of service to Kindersley and West Central Saskatchewan and congratulate him on his well-deserved achievements.

Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award. Left to right: Jeffery Hutchinson, Mitchel R. Hope, Sherry Romanado.

King Charles III Coronation Medal. Left to Right. Member of Parliament Jeremy Patzer, Mitchel Hope

Support for agricultural sector following the imposition of tariffs by China

OTTAWA — Our hard-working producers provide world-class food to Canadians and the world. Their products meet the highest standards, our inspection systems are robust, and we adhere to rules-based trade.

Following the conclusion of China’s domestic ‘anti-discrimination’ investigation launched against Canada on September 26, 2024, China imposed 100 percent tariffs on canola oil, canola meal and peas, as well as 25 percent tariffs on certain pork, fish and seafood products. The Government of Canada is deeply disappointed by this decision, which will hurt Canadian farmers, harvesters and businesses, and will raise prices and diminish choice for Chinese customers, as well as in the agriculture, fish and seafood, retail, restaurant, and food-preparation industries.

The agriculture sector is experiencing multiple challenges, including the tariffs imposed by China, trade uncertainty with the United States, and other risks like animal disease. To help our hard-working producers get through these challenges, today, the Honourable Kody Blois, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development announced supports for the agricultural sector through AgriStability. AgriStability offers affordable, whole farm protection to support producers when challenges are beyond their capacity to manage. The additional proposed supports include increasing the compensation rate from 80 percent to 90 percent and doubling the current payment cap to $6 million for the 2025 program year.

To get money to producers faster, the Government of Canada has also provided provincial and territorial governments with the option to proactively enter into an agreement to issue interim payments at a higher payment rate and initiate Targeted Advance Payments in the event of tariffs, or for the hog sector in the event of African Swine Fever. In provinces and territories that adopt these enhancements, it would mean producers enrolled in AgriStability will be eligible to apply for an interim payment up to 75 percent of their estimated final payment for the 2025 program year. Additionally, an administrator will be able to establish a Targeted Advance Payment for the 2025 program year, for example, where analysis shows that market disruptions have resulted in a sufficient loss to trigger AgriStability payments for a particular sector or region.

The Government of Canada will always stand up for the Canadian agricultural industry and support their interests and success at home and in markets abroad. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provincial and territorial partners and industry stakeholders moving forward and remains open to engaging in constructive dialogue with China to resolve our trade differences on the basis of mutual respect and equality.

“China’s decision to apply these tariffs will have a devasting impact on our farm families and their communities. We’re working hard to diversify our trading partnerships and establish new markets, but we know the sector needs support now. Today’s announcement is a direct result of their advocacy – and our commitment to them. As Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development, I will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our producers and will defend the sector every step of the way,” stated The Honourable Kody Blois, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Rural Economic Development.

Quick facts

• Canola is Canada’s second-largest acreage crop, with over 21 million acres produced annually. It generated $13.6 billion in farm cash receipts in 2023.

• Canadian exports of canola meal to China were valued at $920.9 million in 2024 while exports of canola oil were worth approximately $21 million. Canada’s pea exports (dried and fresh) to China were worth $303.6 million in 2024.

• In 2024, Canada exported $468.6 million worth of pork products to China.

• Canada and the United States are important trade partners for agri-food, with bilateral trade in these areas reaching $101.3 billion (CAD) in 2024.

• Temporarily doubling the current AgriStability payment cap to $6 million, which has not been updated in over 20 years, would ensure that more producers receive support at a level appropriate to their farm size.

• AgriStability is cost-shared between the federal and provincial/territorial governments with the federal government contributing 60 percent and the provincial/territorial government contributing 40 percent of the costs.

- Producers are encouraged to take advantage of the business risk management programs at their disposal to help them navigate uncertainty and safeguard their livelihoods, including AgriStability, AgriInvest, AgriInsurance and the Advance Payments Program.

• The second intake of applications for the AgriMarketing, AgriCompetitiveness and AgriDiversity programs, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, is now open. The AgriMarketing Program helps industry expand exports and seize new market opportunities.

• To support the Canadian agriculture and food industry as U.S. tariffs are implemented, Farm Credit Canada is providing $1 billion in new lending through the Trade Disruption Customer Support program to help alleviate financial challenges.

Roving Traffic Unit seize 1 kg of cocaine during traffic stop

On March 18, 2025 at approximately 11:30 a.m., Saskatchewan RCMP’s Roving Traffic Unit were making proactive patrols and conducted a traffic stop on Highway #1, west of Regina. The traffic stop involved an SUV.

During subsequent investigation with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP police service dog, officers located and seized approximately one kilogram of cocaine inside the vehicle.

An adult male, who told investigators he was travelling from Alberta to Manitoba, was arrested at the scene.

41-year-old Jalil Wahab from Calgary, AB is charged with:

• one count, trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(1), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and

• one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Jalil Wahab is scheduled to appear in Regina Provincial Court on May 29, 2025.

Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers with the Provincial Protective Services Branch and Regina Police Service assisted in this investigation.

KINDERSLEY REGIONAL PARK

Pro Shop Manager for the 2025 Golf and Campground Season

4 strategies for retaining your

employees

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.

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.

2. Think about development. Employees often quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities. Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their potential, avoid boredom and take on new challenges.

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

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.

Soaring retail trade growth reflects economic strength

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.

On March 21, Statistics Canada issued new figures indicating a year-over-year increase of 8.8 per cent in Saskatchewan’s retail trade sales from January 2024 to January 2025 (seasonally adjusted). Saskatchewan also saw a month-over-month increase of 2.7 per cent from December 2024 to January 2025. Both of these increases ranked second among the provinces in terms of percentage change.

Employee retention also depends on effective recruitment. Therefore, use a specialized agency to start your talent search today.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

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.

“The rise in Saskatchewan’s retail trade reflects the positive economic impact of our local businesses and their contribution to the province’s strong economy,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. “The support and demand for made in Saskatchewan products, helps create more jobs and opportunities, while stimulating the economy, allowing for continued investments into services benefiting Saskatchewan people.”

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

How to welcome a teleworking employee

FTE: 1.0 Permanent

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

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

Whether you already work in information technology (IT) or are just starting your studies, here are three qualities essential to your success.

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.

2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS

you must be good at conveying your ideas, making yourself understood and finding the

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.

IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients. This means

The value of retail trade in Saskatchewan reached $2.2 billion in January 2025 (seasonally adjusted).

The Monthly Retail Trade Survey compiles data on sales, including e-commerce sales, and the amount of retail locations by province, territory and selected census metropolitan areas from a sample of retailers.

WHEN TO ACCEPT

Retail sales is a measure of total receipts at stores, or establishments, that sell goods and services to final consumers.

Several other key eco-

nomic indicators are also trending upward in the province. Statistics Canada’s latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan’s 2023 real GDP reached an all-time high of $77.9 billion, increasing by $1.8 billion, or 2.3 per cent. This ties Saskatchewan for second in the nation for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.

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.

Do you have these qualities? If so, you have everything you need for a long career in this promising field.

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.

WHEN TO REFUSE

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.

Last year, the province released Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy, in conjunction with the launch of the InvestSK.ca website. These initiatives are positioned to amplify growth in Saskatchewan, serving as pivotal instruments in driving further development.

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.

For more information visit: InvestSK.ca

Are you having trouble finding a job that suits you? Consult job hunting resources in your area.

HAYLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER

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: SW 35-37-25 W3rd (municipal assessment - $131,000.00) - 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.

Tenders will be received by the undersigned on or before 12:00 noon on Wednesday, the 9th day of April, 2025.

More information available upon request.

Not necessarily the highest or any tender accepted.

COOPER NEIL LAW FIRM

Include ad spaces to generate revenue from the content on these pages.

Solicitor for Fred Guth

Telephone: 306-228-2631 • Fax: 306-228-4449

Email: unityoffice@cooperneil.ca

P.O. Box 600, Unity, SK S0K 4L0

BS & TENDERS

4 strategies for retaining your employees

Budget 2025 – Trade uncertainty, supports Saskatchewan farmers

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.

REGINA - The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) today recognized the provincial government’s dedication to agriculture in the face of international trade uncertainties and announced increases in support for the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC).

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.

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.

APAS President Bill Prybylski stated, “We commend the government’s commitment to agriculture, particularly with the ongoing trade uncertainties that pose risks to our sector.” He continued, “The government acknowledges potential challenges from U.S. tariffs such as inflation and job losses and takes proactive steps to help mitigate these risks.”

2. Think about development. Employees often quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities.Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their potential,avoid boredom and take on new challenges.

The government’s budget highlights efforts to continue expanding trade opportunities and attract investments, despite the prevailing tariff-related challenges. “By placing an emphasis on expanding export opportunities, the government is showing a commitment to the long-term growth and sustainability of Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector,” remarked Prybylski.

dressed, such as refining the PST system to eliminate it on farm insurance premiums, and the red-tape nightmare of the farm exemption list, which could ease both financial and administrative strains.”

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 on effective recruitment.Therefore, use a specialized agency to start your talent search today.

Furthermore, APAS expressed appreciation for the reduction in the education property tax mill rate for agricultural land, relieving farmers of heavy financial burdens due to higher property assessments.

However, APAS also highlights missed opportunities by the government to correct some longstanding irritants to farm and ranch families, while providing a measure of relief from tariff disruptions. “While we congratulate the Minister on his continued efforts,” stated Prybylski, “we also believe there are areas that need to be ad-

kate@yourwestcentral.com

The Great Sandhills Museum and Interpretive Centre

Invites applications for the positions of 2 TOUR GUIDES

www.kindersleyjobs.com To

We welcome applications from the Government of Canada’s job equity groups (women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and Indigenous people).

First Position will start May 15, 2025.

employees

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.

Prybylski also called for enhancements to crop insurance that would offer stronger yield protection and adaptability through tools, such as enhanced yield cushioning policies.

Second Position will start June 27, 2025.

Qualifications:

- Must be college, university or high school student

- Must be between the ages of 15 - 30 years old

- Moderate computer knowledge

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.

In addition, addressing interprovincial trade barriers is crucial for improving collaboration and efficiency within the national agricultural economy. Standardizing meat inspection, food processing, labeling, packaging, and trucking regulations across provinces would simplify operations, reduce costs, and ease compliance burdens. These improvements would facilitate smoother, more cost-effective transportation of agricultural goods across the country.

- Willing to work at least 30 - 35 hours/week

- CPR & First Aid would be an asset

2. Think about development. Employees often quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities.Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their potential,avoid boredom and take on new challenges.

“Despite the challenges, APAS look forward to working with the province to further identify and develop solutions tailored to the needs of farm and ranch families, reinforcing their resilience in these chaotic times,” concluded Prybylski.

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.

1. ANALYTICAL SKILLS

The Town of Kerrobert is accepting sealed tenders for the following properties:

How to welcome a teleworking employee

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.

2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS

IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients.This means

Town Council is permitted by legislation to reject any bid that is lower than the amounts shown above. Sealed tenders will be accepted until Friday, April 4th, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. Tenders can be delivered to the Kerrobert Town Office (located in the Courthouse) at 433 Manitoba Avenue. Tenders can also be mailed to:

Town of Kerrobert - TENDER, Box 558, Kerrobert, SK S0L 1R0

Faxed or emailed tenders will be rejected. For more information, please call the Town Office at 306-834-2361 or email: cao@kerrobert. ca

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.

Hot, Cold/refrigerated Work setting: Staff accommodation available. Various locations. Tasks: Drive trucks to transport materials and well service equipment Certificates, licences, memberships, and courses: • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certificate • Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Certificate

• Talk about the company. Describe the company’s mission, values and other information to help the employee develop a sense of belonging.

• Confined Space Entry Training

• Standard First Aid Certificate

• Fall Arrest Protection Training Course

• Present your tools. Familiarize the employee with the tools, software and online platforms the company uses daily.

Weight handling: Up to 45 kg (100 lbs)

Own tools/equipment: Steel-toed safety boots

3. Offer benefits. Ask your employees what your company could improve and add these to their benefits and perks. For example, could include group insurance,paid days, yoga classes, flexible working hours and telemedicine.

Send resume to:

Great Sandhills Museum Box 29, Sceptre, SK S0N 2H0 or email gshs@sasktel.net

4. Get out of the office. Create opportuni ties for your employees to socialize have fun in a context that doesn’t revolve around work. Use the opportunity to lebrate their successes.

Deadline for applications: April 15, 2025

Employee retention also depends on effective recruitment.Therefore, use a specialized agency to start your talent search today.

you must be good at conveying your ideas, making yourself understood and finding the best moments to do so.

3. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS

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.

Do you have these qualities? If so, you have everything you need for a long career in this promising field.

An Agreement for Sale shall be prepared between the Vendor and the Purchaser upon acceptance.

Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Entry-level position: take it or leave it? 3 essential qualities for IT professionals

How to welcome a teleworking employee

Tara Neumeier Chief Administrative Officer

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.

WHEN TO ACCEPT

The Rural Municipality of Prairiedale No. 321 is seeking a seasonal Grader Operator.

The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:

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.

• 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

lean on and contact if they need help.This will help them feel at ease.

• Have a working knowledge of grading roads

• Must be capable of working with minimal to no immediate supervision

• 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.

• Attention to detail, safety conscious, and ability to take direction from Supervisors

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.

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.

Duties may include but not limited to:

• Operating grader

• Experience operating other equipment is an asset

• 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.

Work conditions and physical capabilities: Fast-paced environment, Repetitive tasks, Handling heavy loads, Physically demanding, Attention to detail, Combination of sitting, standing, walking, Bending, crouching, kneeling, Overtime required

• Any other tasks assigned by the Supervisor with the direction of Council

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).

Are you looking for telecommuting employees to join your team? Do business with a recruitment service.

lean on and contact if they need help.This

• Talk about the company. Describe the company’s mission, values and other information to help the employee develop a sense of belonging.

• Present your tools. Familiarize the employee with the tools, software and online platforms the company uses daily.

• Introduce the team. Set up a video to introduce the entire team.You can serve extra time for the employee to to know the colleagues they’ll be working with directly.

• Follow up. Make sure the new employee receives feedback from their immediate colleagues in the first few weeks to them adjust.The recruit should feel free ask questions without fear of judgment.

Personal suitability: Team player

• Offer mentoring. Ensure the new employee knows they have someone they can

Health benefits: Dental plan, Disability benefits, Health care plan, Vision care benefits

Financial benefits: Group insurance benefits, Life insurance

Other benefits: On-site housing options

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:

• Offer mentoring. Ensure the new employee knows they have someone they can

RM of Prairiedale No. 321 Box 160 Major, SK S0L 2H0 Fax: 306-834-1202

Email: administrator@rmofprairedale.ca

Are you looking for telecommuting employees to join your team? Do business with recruitment service.

SaskPower and SaskEnergy orders buoy EVRAZ during tariff war

BY BRIAN ZINCHUK

REGINA – On top of President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs against Canadian imports, he’s applied an additional tariff burden on steel and aluminum products. For steel, that’s an additional 25 per cent tariff. And in Saskatchewan, EVRAZ is bearing the burden.

The steel and pipe mill on Regina’s north end is getting a bit of a boost from the Government of Saskatchewan by way of some procurement for some of its Crown corporation utilities. On Tuesday, March 18, Crown Investments Minister Jeremy Harrison was at the steel mill to make the announcement.

The province’s Crown corporations are buying Saskatchewan steel to support local jobs, with thousands of pounds of steel and more than a hundred kilometres of pipe recently procured from EVRAZ Steel, according to a government press release.

“The Government of Saskatchewan will always stand up for Saskatchewan’s interests, focusing on pragmatic and sensible solutions, while protecting our jobs, economy and residents,” Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “By prioritizing the purchasing of local steel for SaskPower and SaskEnergy infrastructure projects, we are helping to keep over 400 hardworking Saskatchewan people on the job right here in Regina.”

SaskPower has negotiated a purchase of up to 10,000 tons of steel from EVRAZ, or the equivalent of threeyears’ worth of steel for the Crown, which is used for the construction of transmission structures and other infrastructure that is critical to maintain Saskatchewan’s power grid, according to a government release.

“EVRAZ Canada has been a proud part of Saskatchewan’s economy for nearly 70 years,” EVRAZ Canada Senior Vice President Don Hunter said. “The commitment we are seeing today from the provincial government is a strong signal that the Government of Saskatchewan recognizes the importance of domestic steel manufacturing—not only for EVRAZ’s workers who depend on it but for the broader economy that benefits from a strong and resilient supply chain.”

Collaboration between SaskPower and EVRAZ, along with steel structure fabricators, Brandt and JNE Welding, will result in a made-in-Saskatchewan solution that will support the provincial economy while ensuring reliable power for residents and businesses.

“The United Steelworkers have been at the forefront of fighting for our jobs and for our industry,” USW Local 5890 President Mike Day said. “When hearing of commitments like this from the Saskatchewan government, it eases some of the uncertainty our members have been facing.

“Commitments and investments just like these – to buy Canadian – from all forms of government is what the USW has, and will, continue to advocate for in all Canadian infrastructure projects.”

The previous week, Day was on the steps of the Legislature with NDP critics Aleana Young and Sally

Housser, calling for action from the provincial government on the steel front.

Currently, EVRAZ is working on an order from SaskEnergy which purchased 125 kilometres of steel pipe through Gateway Tubulars LTD. for the Aspen Power Station project, a new 370-megawatt natural gas power plant near Lanigan. SaskEnergy has procured $79 million from EVRAZ directly or through supplier agreements since 2019.

The Aspen Power Station is a 370 megawatt natural gas-fired power plant being built near Lanigan. While not being built exclusively for the nearby mines, the nearby BHP Jansen Lake potash mine is expected to require 300 megawatts when in full operation. Thus, that’s a lot of power that needs to be moved around the grid in central Saskatchewan.

Minister speaks Pipeline Online spoke to Harrison by phone later on March 18.

While Harrison wouldn’t disclose the dollar amount due to “commercial reasons,” he said it was in the “multiple tens of millions of dollars.”

He noted, “It’s a very, very significant procurement from SaskPower today,” adding the SaskEnergy order has been under production since January.

Harrison said the order was accelerated. “We wanted to accelerate this, such that, for the next three years, SaskPower will be able to draw on the order and supply for their needs.” It was the culmination of weeks of discussions, he said.

In a very real way, EVRAZ and its capacity to produce large diameter pipe is of national strategic importance as the only pipe manufacturer in Western Canada capable of producing such pipe. Most of the major pipelines build in Western Canada were built with EVRAZ, and previously IPSCO, steel. And with the governments of both Alberta and Saskatchewan talking about goals of eventually doubling oil production in each of those provinces, doing so would entail essentially doubling the capacity of the entire mainline oil pipeline network.

Asked about that, Harrison said, “There is a tremendous importance in making sure that we don’t lose EVRAZ, and that was big part of the reason why we’ve been working with, through our Crown corporations, to secure the orders that we did.

“But I would say this, what we need to do is get to a place in this country where we can actually build pipelines again.

“And there are a whole number of facets that go along in how we get to the place where we can make pipelines again. It’s interesting. I actually said this at the event today. You know, suddenly we have leftist politicians who are suddenly aware of the importance of getting our energy to tidewater and not being reliant entirely on moving our energy down into the US market. Suddenly, they’re aware of the importance of this.

“We’ve been saying this for well over a decade. You

...SaskPower and SaskEnergy

know, for 17 years that I’ve been elected, we’ve been talking about this. Now, suddenly, leftist politicians view this as a priority. I hope that once the immediate crisis that we have in front of us passes, and it will. I mean, we’ve been through trade challenges before, we’re going to get through this. But I would hope that these people who are now proclaiming their adherence to the importance of building transnational, east, west, not just north, south, but all of the above, every direction, pipelines to get to tide water. I hope they remember what they were saying in this period of time, because I’m fearful that they won’t. I’m fearful that they’ll forget all of this.

“But we have an opportunity right now to push this, and I know that you know if Pierre Poilievre is elected as prime minister, he’s been very clear that he is going to use federal authorities to have approvals put in place, and has the political will to make sure that this infrastructure gets built such that we can move our energy to tidewater. And that really is a incredibly important component of doubling our oil production, whether it be in Saskatchewan or whether it be in Alberta. We are actually getting a $20 a barrel discount right now because of the fact that we can’t actually move what we’re producing into international markets.

“So we this is an absolute strategic imperative, and the only way that is going to get built is if we have the capacity to produce that pipe, here, in Western Canada. There are, there are a limited number of other options, which include procuring from places like China or Russia. And I sure as heck do not want to be doing that, because we’re right back into that same jackpot of being entirely dependent on international sources who we who we can’t rely on.

“So we need to be able to do this here in Saskatchewan. We need to be able to produce that pipe here in Saskatchewan. And then on top of that, we need to actually be able to build that energy infrastructure by getting our energy to tidewater, which will then create a very different economic imperative as far as doubling our oil production.

“This all goes together, and that’s why we’ve been

as committed as we have been to working with EVRAZ to make sure that this facility continues in operation.

“And frankly, I am very optimistic about what that future is going to look like. There are a lot of discussions that are going on right now. And you know, I’m not in the middle of them. These are private companies that have these discussions, but I’m pretty encouraged by discussions that are happening right now that probably wouldn’t have been happening two years ago.

“So we’re going to work as a government to try and facilitate positive outcomes there, but I’m pretty optimistic about what that future is going to look like. And I sure am really optimistic if there’s a change in national government with a new national government committed to building energy infrastructure.”

NDP

One of the items the Saskatchewan NDP have been calling for in this tariff war has been “investment in transmission likes to sell Saskatchewan electricity,” according to March 16 post on X by NDP Leader Carla Beck.

In a March 18 press release that came out an hour after the EVRAZ announcement, NDP Finance Shadow Minister Trent Wotherspoon said the Sask. Party’s tax cut doesn’t even lead to real savings until 2026 and the government has ignored repeated calls to lower costs now.

He also called out Premier Scott Moe for suggesting that Wednesday’s budget will offer no concrete plan to address the Trump trade war. “Tariffs of 25 per cent are already hammering Saskatchewan’s steel industry and further tariffs are expected on April 2,” the release said.

“Moe’s been slow and meek with the weakest response in the country while Donald Trump threatens to crush entire industries and communities,” Wotherspoon said. “I hear from people everywhere I go that they’re looking for a plan to respond to the tariffs and make the Saskatchewan and Canadian economies powerhouses for the future, diversifying our markets and reducing our reliance on the United States.”

Crown Investments Corp. Minister Jeremy Harrison at EVRAZ on March 18.

Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation Unit

file numbers have nearly doubled since 2021

The Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit is investigating the highest number of reports of child sexual abuse material its ever received. These files include investigating crimes involving the abuse and/or exploitation of infants, children and teens on the Internet.

During the 2021-2022 year*, the unit had 853 new files come in. By 20222023, they were up to 931. The 20232024 year saw an even larger number of new files at 1,003 and investigators are currently on pace to reach 1,317 new files this year. *March- April fiscal year.

“Surpassing last year’s number of files isn’t just a statistic, it’s a testament to the growing challenges we as ICE investigators face,” says Saskatoon Police S/Sgt. Tim Failler, Coordinator of the Saskatchewan ICE Unit.

ICE executed 58 search warrants across the province last fiscal year. As of March 13, 2025, they have already carried out 86.

As technology evolves and more people have access to the Internet, children are at greater risk than ever.

“Technology makes acquiring child sexual assault material easy for offenders, it’s no longer in the shadows. You can get it within seconds and with very little effort,” says S/ Sgt. Tim Failler. “You don’t need to have any special technological training to be an offender, your phone is the pathway.”

ICE began tracking the number of files they were requested to assist with at Saskatchewan RCMP detachments because they were getting so many. In ten months, they had over 150 requests for assistance.

Rosetown and Kyle RCMP weekly report

• Rosetown RCMP are investigating a theft complaint in Elrose.

• Rosetown RCMP attended a wellbeing check request in Harris.

• Rosetown RCMP received a suspicious person complaint in Rosetown. Members patrolled the area but found no suspicious activity.

• Rosetown RCMP received a report of an erratic driver on Highway 7. Members were unable to locate the vehicle.

• Rosetown RCMP received a report of an erratic driver on Highway 7. There was insufficient evidence to proceed.

• Rosetown RCMP received a mischief complaint in Rosetown. Members spoke to the subject of complaint who declined to proceed with charges.

• Kyle RCMP are investigating a fraud complaint in Kyle.

• Rosetown RCMP attended a wellbeing check request in Rosetown.

• Rosetown RCMP are investigating a mischief complaint in Rosetown.

• Kyle RCMP received a theft of fuel complaint at a local business in Rosetown. The matter is still under investigation.

• Rosetown RCMP received an Uttering threats complaint in Fiske.. A 33 year-old female from Saskatoon was arrested and charged with Uttering threats against a person and released for court.

• Rosetown RCMP attended a wellbeing check request in Rosetown.

There were 32 Traffic related charges issued 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 Crime Stoppers anonymously at www. saskcrimestoppers.com 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com

“Many people in Saskatchewan see Internet crimes as just a big city concern, but the truth is, they can, and do, happen right here all across our province,” says S/Sgt. Failler. “Just look around, almost everyone has access to a phone. These crimes can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Perhaps its not you specifically – but victims could be your loved ones or friends.”

Understanding the Challenges

In addition to the concerning number of files coming in, most ICE investigations are extremely complex. Technological advancements, such as encryption and anonymity tools, have made it easier for offenders to operate undetected by parents and police. Investigators are also dealing with extensive files and larger data seizures.

“Generally, when we are investigating files, we search phones, computers, tablets and hard drives extensively to verify whether there is further criminality taking place. It could take weeks to examine, depending on the amount of data that is seized and the complexity of the encryption,” said S/Sgt. Failler. S/Sgt. Failler acknowledged this work’s psychological toll on investigators, who often are exposed to explicit images and videos files. Each file, each request for assistance, adds weight to an already heavy workload.

“Our ICE investigators are dedicated to helping keep children of Saskatchewan safe. It’s a complex task and they work on difficult files, but they approach each file with professionalism and compassion,” said S/Sgt. Failler.

Unity, Wilkie and Macklin RCMP report

UNITY RCMP

• RCMP received a complaint of a stolen truck. This matter is still under investigation.

• Members spoke to an individual regarding a peace bond.

• Police received a complaint of uttering threats but there was insufficient evidence to proceed.

• Members attended the sudden death of a 58-yearold female from Denzil. The death was not suspicious in nature.

• RCMP attended the sudden death of a 74-yearold female from Unity. The death was not suspicious in nature.

• Police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle near Suffern Lake. This matter is still under investigation.

• Members conducted a wellbeing check at the request of a family member.

• RCMP received a noise complaint. This matter is still under investigation.

• A youth was charged with Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Flight from Peace Officer during a traffic stop.

• Police received a complaint of theft. This matter is still under investigation.

• Members are investigating a complaint of fraud.

• CN Police reported a railway crossing malfunction in Unity. Reported for information purposes.

• There were also two traffic complaints.

Wilkie RCMP

• RCMP received a complaint of theft but there was insufficient evidence to proceed.

• Police received another compliant of theft. eported for information purposes. The complainant declined to proceed.

• A 42-year-old male from Prince Albert was charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and Obstruct Justice and a 45-year -old Wilkie male was charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and Operation While Prohibited after Members received a re

by Cheryl Mullock

port of individuals in possession of stolen property.

• RCMP received a complaint of a stolen tractor. This matter is still under investigation.

• Police received a report of an unwanted pet. Members advised the animal owner to contact a local animal shelter.

• Members received a request to assist Emergency Medical Services with a patient.

Macklin RCMP

• RCMP received a report of a dog on the highway. Members patrolled but could not locate the animal.

• Police received a complaint of an individual not complying with a court order. This matter is still under investigation.

• Members are investigating a complaint of a stolen truck.

• RCMP received a complaint of an individual not complying with an undertaking condition. Members spoke to the subject of complaint and issued a verbal warning.

• Police received a report of a single vehicle collision near Macklin. The vehicle driver was transported by Emergency Medical Services to Provost Heath Centre for assessment.

• There were also two traffic complaints and one false alarm.

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.

Community newspapers are living history books, recording all facets of the lives of community residents, as well as providing news that is relevant to them.

Kindersley Community Garden plots available

As spring approaches, exciting details have been unveiled for the Kindersley Community Garden 2025! Here’s what you need to know.

Location: Nestled conveniently at 812 Main Street, our community garden is easily accessible for all residents.

Individual Plot Size: Each gardening enthusiast will enjoy a generous plot measuring approximately 10 feet by 10 feet, providing ample space for a variety of plants and flowers.

Annual Plot Cost: For just $50.00, you can secure your very own garden plot for the season.

Plot Submission Deadline: Be sure to submit your application by April 15, 2025, to ensure your spot in our flourishing garden community.

In addition, we are eager to welcome up to four dedicated community members to join the 2025 Town of Kindersley Community Garden Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the planning and management of our beloved garden space. For detailed information about how to join the committee or to apply for your own plot, please refer to the Terms of Reference and Application documents available through our resources.

Should you have any questions or need further as-

BY JOAN JANZEN

Community Futures Meridian Region plays a crucial role in business development. Lori Feeder, CEO, provided the details of what they have to offer.

“Our Entrepreneur with Disabilities program has a waiting list right now,” she said. “We are always loaning money to home-based businesses which are starting up or expanding.”

sistance, feel free to reach out to the Town of Kindersley Administration Office:

Phone: (306) 463-2675

Email: office@kindersley.ca

Visit our website today to secure your plot and embark on a rewarding gardening journey: https://www. kindersley.ca/community/community-garden/

They also offer free training events open to businesses and social enterprises in the region. The classes cover a range of subjects, including business relationships, creating digital content, recruiting employees, and navigating a family business. Their goal is to give rural businesses the tools they need to compete in today’s market.

Their wide range of services includes business financing, which offers loans tailored to the needs of

small and medium-sized enterprises. These include start-up and expansion loans as well as booster loans, which are smaller amounts of capital needed to advance to the next level.

Entrepreneurs receive personalized business planning support and advisory services from professionals. These professionals can help set up accounting systems or assist with business registrations, among other things.

Entrepreneurs in rural areas face unique challenges, and that’s where Community Futures can help. Their mission is to foster economic resilience by helping businesses succeed, creating local jobs, and stimulating the local economy. They provide the tools, guidance, and resources necessary for entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and thrive in today’s competitive environment.

Feral barn cat befriends ewes

BY JOAN JANZEN

KINDERSLEY - A set of twin lambs were the first arrivals for the 2025 lambing season, making their appearance before spring officially arrived. Michele Rast said the twins were the only births at their Circle R Ranch near Beadle, while the other ewes seem to be hanging on for warmer weather. “We are coming to the conclusion that this is a ‘late’ year,” she said. This year, the Rast family adopted a feral barn cat through the KAWS animal rescue program. Their new addition became friends with their sheep before he began trusting his adopted human family.

Michele said although the ewes with new babies don’t tolerate too much in their pen alongside their babies, they have accepted their new feline friend. The family affectionately calls him their ‘Supervisor’.

After a ewe had unfortunately delivered still born twins, the Supervisor went in the pen and snuggled beside her, providing comfort. Michele described the scenario as very unique.

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

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 Town of Kerrobert

Pursuant to Section 213 of The Municipalities Act notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Kerrobert for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

On the following days: Monday to Friday March 18th to May 16, 2025

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment or classification to the Board of Revision is required to file his or her notice of appeal with:

The Secretary Board of Revision Krystal Bazylinski

503 Grand Ave.

PO Box 130, Luseland, SK S0L 2A0 By: 4:30 p.m., May 16th, 2025

Dated this 18th day of March, 2025.

Tara Neumeier, Assessor

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll R.M. of Oakdale No. 320

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Oakdale No. 320 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days:

Monday to Friday, March 28 to May 28, 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 against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal, accompanied by a $200 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, with: Mike Ligtermoet

The Secretary of the Board of Revision c/o R.M. of Oakdale No. 320 Box 249, Coleville, SK S0L 0K0 by the 28th day of May, 2025.

For more information regarding your assessment notice, please contact the assessor, R.M. of Oakdale No. 320, Box 249, Coleville, SK S0L 0K0.

Dated this 25th day of March, 2025.

Gillain Lund, Assessor

The Rast family’s adopted feral cat has become friendly with their ewes who allow him to share their water bowl, and check out their new born lambs.

PHOTO

Monday-Saturday

Classifieds

COMING EVENTS

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS! These three cuties were enjoying Sunday afternoon in front of Baker’s Park in Kindersley, having a visit and making some spending money!

PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN

CLASSIFIED AD RATES (20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Friday noon. 306-463-2211

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:

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

NOW HIRING:

Bryden Construction & Transport Co. requires SHOP LABORERS

Duties involve cleaning the shop and equipment, assisting in the service/ maintenance area, and general laborer duties. Clean driver’s abstract required. Job location is Arborfield, Sask. Room and board provided. Send resume with work references to: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844

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

BARLEY

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HEALTH

REAL ESTATE

that has large city services and small town safety and charm. For more information call 306-2913686 or email chateauvilla@ sasktel.net

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

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED

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

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way. Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

REAL ESTATE

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.

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Posting Date March 24, 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? © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

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

On Wednesday, March 12, officers from Saskatchewan Highway Patrol, Conservation Officer Service and the RCMP worked together to set up a checkpoint near the Swift Current area, demonstrating the strong collaboration needed to support public safety. In just four hours, officers made 30 contacts, conducting inspections and vehicle compliance checks, which resulted in 400 illicit cigarettes seized and six offence tickets issued. Officers also carried out several proactive patrols of the southern reservoirs for late season angling checks.

Saskatchewan’s building construction and housing starts lead the nation

The latest Statistics Canada numbers show an increase of 27.2 per cent in January 2025 compared to January 2024 for the building construction investment in the province. Housing starts for Saskatchewan increased by 115.7 per cent from February 2024 to February 2025.

“These two key indicators are reflective of the overall strength of our provincial economy and today’s numbers show continued positive growth,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. “These numbers translate into more jobs, investment and new projects throughout our communities, which brings added opportunity to everyone who calls Saskatchewan home.”

In February 2025, housing starts on single family dwellings increased by 80.8 per cent and multiple units increased by 127.6 per cent, compared to February 2024. In the first two months of 2025, urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 51.5 per cent, compared to the same period in 2024. Saskatchewan ranked second among the provinces in percentage change.

Investment in building construction is calculated based on the total spending value on building construction

within the province. Housing starts refers to the number of housing projects that started that month.

Statistics Canada’s latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan’s 2023 real GDP reached an all-time high of $77.9 billion, increasing by $1.77 billion, or 2.3 per cent from 2022. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.

Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased last year by 17.3 per cent to $14.7 billion, ranking first among provinces. 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.

Last year, the Government of Saskatchewan unveiled its new Securing the Next Decade of Growth - Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy. This strategy, combined with Saskatchewan’s trade and investment website, InvestSK.ca, contains helpful information for potential markets and solidifies the province as the best place to do business in Canada.

For more information visit: InvestSK. ca

Leader Arts Council is mentoring the next generation

BY JOAN JANZEN

LEADER - There’s a Spark in Leader, and his name is Logan Duchscherer, the newest Spark Coordinator in the Leader Arts Council. He has teamed up with Treena Redman, the Performing Arts Coordinator, who is his mentor in OSAC’s Spark Program.

Spark is a performing arts mentorship program for those aged 29 and under. As Spark Coordinator, Logan, a Grade 10 student at LCS, is tasked with choosing one performance for the season, and he chose The Wardens.

The three members of The Wardens collectively worked as Canadian national park wardens for over 50 years. Through their mountain music and three-part harmonies, they share chilling tales of their experiences. The April 1st performance looks to be a crowd-pleaser, and Logan has a number of attractive options to offer his peers.

Admission to the concert is only $5 for students, and season ticket holders can bring their kids aged 16 and under to the concert for free.

“Our local travel club is operating the canteen by donation in order to fund their trip to Thailand and Vietnam,” he added. “And I’ve recruited students to run the admission booth.”

Treena explained the purpose of the Spark program is for Logan to gain hands-on experience. Logan had the opportunity to look through the videos of performers who are showcased and make his selection.

“I looked at prices, how I can

market it to my peers; it had to be something they would want to see,” he explained. “We recently set up a TikTok that I’m working on developing; that’s one way of marketing the concerts.”

“I also set up volunteers and contacted the artists themselves. I make sure they get accommodation and give them the options available.” Logan is also the MC for the evening’s performance.

Treena said she heard about Logan and thought he would be a good fit for the Spark program. “I like organizing,” Logan said. “I’m technical. I like light and sound, and all the audio-visual equipment, and business and marketing.

How did Smiley get its name?

Did you ever wonder how our surrounding communities acquired their names? Most of those villages and towns were named after a pioneer and Smiley is one of them.

According to the history book ‘Where the Wild Goose Flies’, Smiley was named after Ernest Everett Smiley who lived from 1877-1956). He was born in Pettit County Missouri, and came to Saskatoon in 1905 and to Smiley in 1905-1906. He filed on a homestead located at SE 1/4 12-31-26 W3rd.

Mr. McFarline, who was in charge of building the rail line, had stayed at the Smiley home many times during his trips to the surveyors’ camps. He sent in the name of Mr. Smiley to the Grand Trunk Pacific head office, for the name of the town. And the rest is all history. The village of Smiley was named after Ernest Everett Smiley. PHOTO

I did all the sound and lights at the school since I was in Grade 7.”

Part of the Spark program involves an entry and exit surveys for both the mentor and mentee. “The surveys evaluate my engagement - both before and after the performance,” Logan explained. After the successful completion of the surveys, the Arts Council receives a $500 grant which helps pay for the performance.

The goal of the Spark program is to help OSAC members mentor and develop Saskatchewan’s next generation of arts presenters. At the same time, Logan is excited to have the opportunity to develop the skills and pursuits he enjoys.

Treena Redman from the Leader Arts Council is mentoring Logan Duchscherer as part of OSAC’s Spark program, designed to develop the next generation of arts presenters in Saskatchewan. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN

ALSASK

- Drop in Pickleball every Tuesday 8:00 PM at the Alsask Rec Centre. All ages are welcome. 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

SATURDAY, MARCH 29

• Ducks Unlimited Supper at the PCC. Tickets are available from Jim Wilson 306-834-5156 or Richard Anderson 306-8347676. Games, Live Auction and Silent Auction.

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

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26

• Kindersley Chamber of Commerce Job Fair 10:00 AM6:00 PM at Kindersley Composite School.

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.

THURSDAY, MAY 1

• Kindersley & District Arts Council presents “The Misery Mountain Boys” 7:30 PM at the Norman Ritchie Community Centre.

- 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!

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26

• Dabber Bingo at the Leader Friendship Centre. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Bingo at 7:00 PM. Held the 4th Wednesday of the month.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23

• Dabber Bingo at the Leader Friendship Centre. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Bingo at 7:00 PM. Held the 4th Wednesday of the month.

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MONDAY, APRIL 28

• Soup & Bun Lunch 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM at the Leader Friendship Centre. Cost is $8.00. Held the 4th Monday of the month.

- Cards & Coffee. Come out and play cards! Every Tuesday afternoon 2:00-4:00 PM at the Leader Friendship Centre. No cost.

- Leader Curling Club Stick Curling Tuesdays at 2:00 PM.

- Family Curling Wednesdays at 7:00 PM.

- Open League Curling Thursdays at 7:00 & 9:00 PM.

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.