The Sledge Hockey Club is looking for new players!
We are looking for players age 7 to adult that want to play hockey on sleds. Come try for FREE at the WCEC and Register on: Sunday, September 14 2:30-4:30 p.m.
MUST BRING A HELMET AND GLOVES Registration Fee: $275.00
Contact Tracy Lyons at 306-460-6537
Sledge Hockey Showcase Game
Kindersley Klippers Sledge vs
SJHL Kindersley Klippers
Sunday, September 14, 2025
Co-op Arena 1:00 PM
Join us after the game to try out Sledge Hockey. Helmet and hockey gloves required. Registration on-site for the 2025-2026 season!
Doug watched farming change over the years
BY JOAN JANZEN
KINDERSLEY — As the combines head out into the field, Doug Francis recalled the years he spent on the family farm located south of Kindersley. During his thirty-five years of farming, he witnessed numerous changes from 1969 to 2014.
“My dad had three-quarters of a land,” he explained, as he recalled growing up as the third oldest in a family of seven. “But most of his income came from his mechanical shop.”
By the time he was 14, Doug was unloading grain in square wooden bins. Shovelling barley inside a square bin was not a lot of fun. “We would be getting the bin full in the corners, but you couldn’t see two feet in front of you because of the dust while unloading at the same time,” he said.
Doug remembered unloading grain from a one-ton truck without a hydraulic hoist. When he was 16, he began hauling grain to the elevator.
“We were six miles from the closest elevator,” he recalled. “Everyone was lined up with their one tons waiting to get in. Guys who lived closest got the most grain hauled each day. When the grain cars were full, that was it.”
Eventually, Doug and his brother Ray began operating the family farm. The brothers purchased their dad’s equipment and began buying more land. “We started with
nothing and kept expanding, but not too fast,” he said. “Our first land was $100/acre. Now it’s about $4,000/acre.”
The two brothers worked well as a team. “My brother and I got along really well. My brother did all the books, and I did the shop work,” Doug explained. “We fixed our own equipment. We’re pretty mechanical. We were fortunate because our dad was a mechanic.”
Back in the day, farmers wouldn’t seed everything, leaving half the land as summer fallow; however, Doug’s dad would always seed a bit of stubble. When the brothers began farming, they seeded two-thirds of the crop and left one-third summer fallow.
While his dad operated the farm, he planted flax, wheat and
barley. “We started with lentils, but we didn’t get yields like they do now. They have better varieties now,” he said. They grew one-third each of durham, canola and lentils.
“Lentils make their own nitrogen once they get growing. Next year, when you grow wheat on that lentil field, you have nitrogen for the wheat field,” he explained.
As for equipment, he recalled purchasing a big tractor, sprayer and two large combines at once. They would run some of the equipment for nine or ten years. “Farming is a tough game because everything is so expensive. Now the biggest combine is over a million dollars,” he observed. Many farmers lease equipment, which enables them to have more combines on the field during harvest.
Even when the harvest is completed, there’s more work to be done. “It’s just as much work afterwards fixing and cleaning equipment,” Doug said. “There’s no end to work.”
Throughout the years, they hired seasonal help. They raised their families, and enjoyed their years of farming. “My son is handling the farm now. We drive out there once a week because we have our farm dog out there and farm cats,” he said.
Doug and his wife Sheila have been living at Caleb Village for the past three years. “I don’t farm anymore. I can see the combines go by, that’s good enough,” he said.
The photo of Doug’s 2012 Case 620 quad track beside a 1949 Minneapolis illustrates the changes that have taken place during his years of farming. PHOTO BY DOUG FRANCIS
Doug Francis is a retired farmer who has seen many changes during his 35 years of farming. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Families had a blast at Leader’s Art Night
BY JOAN JANZEN
The sun was shining, combines were busy harvesting, and families were having a blast at Leader’s outdoor Art Night on Wednesday, September 3rd. Local musical artist Alan Hudec entertained the crowd while visitors browsed the crafts displayed at the various booths.
There was woodwork, handmade jewelry, face painting, crochet projects and much more on display at Art Night. While visiting his hometown, Rylan Cocks was on hand offering a free painting workshop
for adults and children.
The fun began at 5:00 pm, when visitors could purchase loaded hot dogs and popcorn, with all proceeds going to the Building Homes - Building Hope team, who are planning a mission trip to El Salvador. The group builds homes for families in need.
Carnival games were available for all the kids to enjoy while the adults appreciated having time to visit with friends and family. The evening was a huge success thanks to the organizational efforts of Leader & District Chamber of Commerce and the help of many willing volunteers.
PHOTOS BY JOAN JANZEN
Owners of the Fox Vegas golf course are back row: Madden Dirk, Charlie Schmaltz, Parker Schmaltz, Jace Checkley, Dawson Bonogofski, Luca Dirk, Levi Schmaltz. Front Row: Clara Schmaltz and Lilly Schmaltz.
Young entrepreneurs raising funds for Fox Valley Rink
BY JENNA WAGNER
FOX VALLEY — On August 28, Fox Vegas Mini Golf opened shop on the front lawn of the home of Josh and Megan Schmaltz.
I had the pleasure of interviewing CEO Parker Schmaltz. He said he has been really enjoying golfing with his friends at the Fox Valley Golf course and thought the idea of a mini golf on his front lawn would be perfect. He gathered a group of friends and they went to work. The group got creative, also finding those balls that might have ended up in the rough at the Fox Valley golf course are now yours to purchase at the Fox Vegas Mini golf. They also sell juice, baking and other snacks for you to enjoy while playing a round.
Inflation might cause some people to forgo playing golf this year to stay within their budget, but not at Fox Vegas Golf course, where a round will only set you back a quarter. Charlie Schmaltz, who is also a creator of the golf course, said they are already adding improvements and have ordered some turf. They used supplies from their parents to create the 9-hole course. Those who are not particularly fond of mini golf have also generously made donations.
The best part of this mini golf course is that all funds are being donated towards the new boards that are currently being installed at the rink. I asked the group what made them want to choose the rink. They said, “It was an easy choice, all of our parents are on the arena board, and we know it’s very expensive to run”.
Another member of the group said, “We spend all of our winters there with our friends, and we want to see the rink open for a long time”. This group is proof that, regardless of your age, whether young or old, you are capable of making a difference in your community, even if it is a homemade mini golf course on your front lawn.
The group raised an astonishing amount of $620 in just a few days. If anyone would like to help the group reach its goal of $ 1,000, please reach out to jennawagner.jw@gmail.com.
OPINION:
Why is western Canada being used as the sacrificial lamb?
BY JOAN JANZEN
A farmer said, “If partially sighted people want the right to drive combines, I’m not going to stand in their way.”
Not only do farmers need 20/20 vision, but they also need a firm grasp on vision for their future. The Saskatchewan Institute recently addressed one of the major challenges facing farmers.
In its ‘Saskatchewan Minute’, it reported: “China has imposed tariffs of up to 75.8% on Canadian canola seed. This is on top of the 100% tariffs already in place on canola oil and meal.”
This is significant because China imports massive amounts of canola oil and meal. “The worst part is the crisis wasn’t caused by Saskatchewan farmers, or by China; it was caused by Ottawa,” the Saskatchewan Minute report explained. The tariffs are seen as a response to Canada’s 100% tariffs imposed on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), which triggered retaliation from China.
So what does that look like from a farmer’s perspective? Saskatchewan’s own Quick Dick McDick (aka Dickson Delorme), well known as a comedian, YouTuber, and most importantly, as a farmer, willingly shared his thoughts on the subject.
The Saskatchewan Institute summed up the situation, saying, “Ottawa has decided protecting Ontario and Quebec’s
struggling EV industry is worth more than defending the canola industry.”
Quick Dick discussed why western Canadian grain growers are where they are. He told his listeners that Ottawa is protecting an industry that imports most of the components for EVs from China and then uses $80/hr union employee jobs to assemble those vehicles in Canada, and tries to force them on Canadians.
“The federal government has set a goal that by 2035, one hundred percent of vehicles sold must be EV, and any manufacturer that is in violation of this will be fined,” the YouTuber added. Nevertheless, the Financial Post reported EV sales in Canada dropped sharply in March of this year.
The Saskatchewan farmer asked another question, “Why is western Canada being used as the sacrificial lamb?” He followed with an explanation, “It’s because we have all the commodities the government needs to use as bargaining tools. And there’s no chance the
government will lose any voter support here, where canola is grown, because they don’t have voter support here in the first place. So what better commodity to use in a trade dispute? The government’s primary job once elected is to get re-elected.”
On the other hand, the YouTuber pointed out Bill C-202 was passed, protecting supply-managed farms which include dairy, poultry and eggs. “Do you want to guess where most of those farms are located in this country and how they vote?” Quick Dick asked.
Meanwhile, his listeners are cheering him on, mostly because he’s the first media personality who has provided an honest depiction of the circumstances.
Saskatchewan produces nearly half of Canada’s canola; more than 20,000 farmers grow it. It’s worth billions every year and is critical to the livelihoods of families. “It’s one of our largest markets,” Quick Dick said, “We exported $5 billion worth of canola last year to China. The canola industry is responsible for over 200,000 jobs, which is way more than the steel, aluminum and auto industries put together.”
Now it’s harvest time on the prairies, and some farmers have secured contracts. “But some people can’t store all their canola until prices get better. Some people need cash flow to pay for equipment and land,” Quick Dick reasoned.
“This is when you see what you’ve got for a yield and start marketing your product.”
To put this into perspective, he reported the numbers. On his farm, he grows 2300 acres of canola, which usually yields between 40 and 45 bushels per acre. “We lost $100,000 with the announcement of this tariff,” he concluded. “It’s long past time for the federal government to stop trying to support a non-existent EV industry using a western Canadian canola crop.”
One of Quick Dick’s listeners said, “I’m from Ontario, but I feel we need to work with all the provinces and do what’s best for each one, working with the strengths of each province to make Canada strong and free again.”
In a Canadian Press article, Chris Davison of the Canola Council of Canada said canola has been a profitable crop and his organization will try to ensure producers can find other markets, should problems with China persist. And the Premiers from Saskatchewan and Alberta are asking for EV tariffs to be scrapped to help normalize trade with China.
But I think Quick Dick spoke on behalf of all the grain growers in Saskatchewan and Alberta when he said, “Just let us do what we do and export it and get paid for it.” In other words, don’t stand in their way.
Pop89:
A distance measured in stories
BY MADONNA HAMEL
I have been driving. A lot. Last Saturday, it took me fourteen hours to drive from Cortes Island on the west coast of BC to the Okanagan, where peaches fall from the trees in the summer heat. I began my day at 6 am, hiking through old-growth forest, up a rocky cliff covered in ancient moss, stepping over tree roots and giant black slugs, and down a gravel road to my car, parked overnight in the ferry lineup.
Alcoholics Anonymous
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. Get help with substance abuse.
Tuesday: Kindersley NA Meeting 7:30 PM, 113 Main Street
There is a story about that morning – how I decided, or rather my body did, that I should get headed back home to my garden, my writing and my sanctuary earlier than planned. The climax of the story is the emotional parting with my brother, knowing his memory is compromised and his future in the air. It is heartbreaking and darn nigh impossible to part with a loved one when you see them struggling to be brave and their fear, shimmering under the surface. But one thing I’ve learned about travel is not to prevaricate once you’ve made a decision, whether it’s to merge in a passing lane or take the next exit or leave early the next day.
After arriving on Quadra I drove across the island to make the next ferry off Quadra to Campbell River on Vancouver Island. There are many stories around that oft-taken route – in an ambulance with my brother, as a hitch-hiker, driving my brother’s truck and stalling halfway up the ferry ramp, terrified I was about to drift backwards into the brink or someone else’s vehicle. On endless ferry rides, my family has banked hours upon hours of weary musings, chirpy pep talks, sardonic reflections, and a litany of Hail Marys. This time, I was doing it alone, sleepy and stoking myself with coffee because the day’s journey had barely begun.
From Campbell River, I drove to Nanaimo - a route where three times my brother experienced sudden moments of sight like “a pool of water filling an empty pothole.” And every time we described the incident to the neurologist, he simply shrugged, as if there were no real explanation for it and no studies on that phenom, so, no cause for getting all excited. It’s not guaranteed it will ever happen again. Fine, I muttered to myself. It’s obvious I will need to spend the rest of my days driving my brother up and down the Island, courting moments of vision and hope.
The doc’s serious lack of bedside compassion irks me to no end, but my brother simply tells a story defending the neurologist: he’s probably autistic, not good at making friends. Then he discovered something that fascinated him – the mysterious work-
ings of the brain. Only he’s far more comfortable with the “working” part than the “mysterious” part. Nope, my brother affirms, “poetry is not what I come to him for. “And he’s right - we come for the facts, an understanding of the mechanics of the brain.
I ask to look at the most recent catscan and have it explained to us. We learned that Doug’s temporal lobe is as damaged as the occipital, yet it was his eyesight loss that most concerned us all, being the most obvious new impediment. And so the front temporal took a back seat. The temporal is the short-term memory lobe, as well as an emotion regulator, explained the neurologist. It’s responsible for sudden rages or despairs.
And its damage explains why, when listening to a story, Doug loses track of the protagonist. “He has lost the short-term transference mechanism that takes the beginning of a sentence to its long-term conclusion.” That is to say: by the time you get to the end of a sentence, he’s forgotten the beginning of it. So speak in short, non-fragmented sentences. Like Hemingway. Short and sweet. And simple.
Of course, the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell about—and on—others can go in many directions. My biggest challenge involves not building my case every time I feel threatened by or suspicious of others. Not only are self-justification and rationalization stories usually just thinly disguised misery litanies, or full-blown conspiracy theories, they are just plain bad stories. They carry no mystery or paradox; they are not interested in the chink in the other’s armour, or their soft spots or hidden gifts. And they deny any blind spots on the seller’s behalf. They can create rather than decrease distances.
And, I am reminded of Cree writer Harold Johnson’s The Power of Story. In it, he reminded us that we each have a story to tell. It isn’t right or wrong, it is simply our story. This is the power behind 12-step groups, where we heal through stories of change. It was also the constant refrain of all the counsellors we met on our trip up and down Vancouver Island: “Do not isolate. We are meant to share our stories. We connect through story. We heal through story.” Stories of shared human experiences tether us to the world and to each other.” “Because
The Irish author Colm McCann recently spoke at a conference held at the Vatican. He said: “I don’t know where a story begins. But I do know that, for it to be born, one must be open. Open to contradiction. We live in a world sick with certainties. Everyone clings to iron certainties; everyone is always sure they know, sure they understand everything. Yet I think that the distance between two people is always only a story. And the essence of a story is to get some sort of truth where I acknowledge you exist and you acknowledge I exist, and that’s incredibly important. We don’t necessarily have to love one another, but if we fail to understand one another, each with the other, then we are doomed. That is why stories can wash the feet of the world.”
Unity RCMP reports on recent crime activity
UNITY, SK — The Unity RCMP would like to inform the public about recent crime incidents and ongoing investigations in the Unity, Wilkie, and Macklin areas. The following outlines key reports and alerts from our detachments.
Unity Area Highlights:
• The RCMP is currently investigating a case regarding the unsafe storage of firearms.
• A complaint of assault was received; however, due to insufficient evidence, no charges could be laid.
• Members responded to a breach of peace complaint, but the subject had left the premises upon arrival.
• A 37-year-old male from Camrose, Alberta has been charged with multiple offenses, including Break and Enter with Intent and Theft of Vehicle, following a report of a stolen vehicle.
• A 29-year-old female from Unity was charged with Assault with a Weapon.
• Investigations are ongoing regarding a complaint of sexual assault and a theft of fuel from a local gas station.
• Officers attended to a vehicle collision involving a moose, fortunately resulting in no injuries.
Wilkie Area Highlights:
• The RCMP is investigating a report of an individual not complying with a court order.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported, and members successfully contacted the registered owner to move it.
• A complaint of a break-in was received, but insufficient evidence resulted in no further action.
Macklin Area Highlights:
A wellbeing check was conducted at the request of a health care professional.
There was another report of a stolen vehicle with subsequent charges laid against a 37-year-old male for
Theft of Vehicle and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.
Assistance was provided regarding a neighbour dispute, and a subject of a Mental Health Act complaint was transported for assessment.
Other Incidents:
In addition to the significant cases highlighted, officers responded to four traffic complaints, two false alarms, and one false 911 call across all areas.
Community Awareness and Reporting
The RCMP encourages community members to report any information related to criminal activity. Please contact the Unity RCMP detachment at (306)228-6300, the Wilkie detachment at (306) 843-3480, or the Macklin detachment at (306) 753-2171. For anonymous tips, Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1-800-222-8477 or *8477 on the SaskTel Mobility Network. Tips can also be submitted online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Online
Crime Reporting
Unity RCMP reminds residents that Online Crime Reporting has been implemented for certain crime types. This platform allows individuals to report less serious offenses conveniently, leading to more efficient police work. Crimes eligible for online reporting include:
• Fraud & Scams (under $5,000)
• Vandalism Damage (under $5,000)
• Lost & Stolen Property (under $5,000)
• Traffic Offenses
• Harassing Phone Calls or E-Communications For more information, visit ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc. ca/saskatchewan.
The Unity RCMP appreciates the community’s cooperation and engagement in keeping our neighbourhoods safe.
The 2nd Annual Jesse Gramlich Memorial Golf Tournament was held July 19, 2025, at the Kindersley Golf Course.
family and friends organized the day, and everyone had a great time honouring a muchloved young
Jesse’s brother, Josh Gramlich, was pleased to announce that the proceeds of $5500.00 from the 2025 JAG
tournament were being donated to Pathway to Wellness. Josh said Jesse loved being in the rink, so the donation felt appropriate, and we hope it will help people recover from trauma in our local community. Pictured above is Josh Gramlich presenting the proceeds of $5500.00 from the 2025 JAG Cup to Pathway to Wellness in Kindersley. (L-R) Morgan Clappison, Jocelyn Perlinger, Bev
Joanne Kosolofski, Heather Henry and Josh Gramlich.
JANZEN
IT’S HARVEST TIME
Slow Down & Be Safe during Harvest!
Jesse’s
man.
Cup
Callsen,
PHOTO BY JOAN
Two local tap dancers to step into World Championships in Prague
BY JOAN JANZEN
FOX VALLEY / KINDERSLEY — Local dance students Kelsey Hoffart and Grace Sylvester have been selected to join Team Canada Tap West and will be participating in the World Tap Championships in Prague from October 22-26, 2025. Grace and Kelsey have been training with their instructor, Tiffany Wagner, since they were preschoolers. Grace is from Kindersley and has been dancing with Premier Dance Studio. Kelsey lives near Fox Valley and has been dancing with Leader School of Dance.
They heard about the auditions for Team Canada from their teacher. Tiffany’s son, Kylan Wagner, is the assistant choreographer for the team.
Kelsey admitted. “But having the familiar faces of Kylan and Grace there made it less stressful. And the main choreographer was very encouraging.”
After returning home, the girls continued to practice the routine on their own and submitted a video documenting their progress before returning for more training in September. “We will be returning to Vancouver for four more weekends to practice,” Kelsey said.
The girls submitted their online audition and were thrilled to discover they had made the team! The two dancers have become acquainted over the past two years while attending competitions with their tap solos.
The twenty members in the formation hail from Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. Training with the team began in July when they travelled to Vancouver to learn about the choreography for the team dance. They rehearsed for three hours a day for six consecutive days.
“I was nervous,”
Constituency Office 4671 Price Avenue PO Box 238 Gull Lake, SK S0N 1A0 Phone: 306-672-1755 steelemla@sasktel.net
Before their departure to Prague on the 19th, the team will do an October 17th pre-show followed by a final practice the following day. Not only are the girls putting in many hours of dance practice, but they are also helping their families by participating in various fundraising events. Donations obtained from sponsors, their families, local businesses and fundraisers help cover their costs.
It will be a monumental experience for both dancers to compete in this international competition with their peers from around the world. The two small-town girls will be among more than a quarter of a million dancers coming from six continents.
It’s sure to be quite an experience for the girls, but they’re also hoping to see some of the sights while they’re in Prague.
Two local tap dancers to step into World Championships in Prague
The Kerrobert Courthouse Restoration Society hosted its 105th birthday celebration at the courthouse on August 27. They would like to thank everyone for donations and support towards restoration efforts. The evening was full of great entertainment thanks to the vocals of “RJ” as well as “Superb Sound and Friends”! Their thanks also extends to the Town of Kerrobert employees, JQR Holdings, Van Maar Trucking, Rylan Hight, Zach Van Basten, Pat Kloster, Doug McNichol, Kerrobert Reddi Mart, The Kerrobert & District Chronicle and West Central Online for helping to make the evening a success!
PHOTO COURTESY KERROBERT COURTHOUSE RESTORATION SOCIETY
Riders, Stamps dominant in CFL’s West
BY BRUCE PENTON
Winnipeg is playing host to this year’s Grey Cup game but for the first time in six years, the Blue Bombers likely won’t be the West Division’s representative.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
The Bombers won the Cup in 2019 and 2021 (2020’s game was cancelled due to COVID) and then lost three Grey Cup games in a row — 2022, 2023 and 2024. Finally getting to host the game for the first time since 2015 could be bittersweet for Bomber fans, whose team will likely be watching from the sidelines.
The power in the West Division has shifted, thanks primarily to great quarterbacking play by Vernon Adams in Calgary and Trevor Harris in Regina. The Stampeders and Roughriders have been the class of the West through the first half, and it’s likely they’ll carry on to the division final in early November.
Trying to determine who’s the better team is tricky. The Stampeders are 2-0 against the Riders this year, including a 32-15 win in Calgary Aug. 23, but Saskatchewan held an 8-2 pre-Labour Day record through 10 games, one game up on the Stamps, who inexplicably lost twice to Eastern Division weakling Ottawa (3-8 record) and once to Montreal (5-6). Calgary coach Dave Dickenson evidently gets his team ready to play the crucial games and the Stamps let up somewhat when they’re facing inferior teams.
The Riders’ Harris wasn’t deterred after the recent loss to Calgary, telling the Leader-Post “We’ve talked about our character all year, and so it’s time to put that on the table and show who we are. And we will. We’ll bounce back from this.”
Adams, meanwhile, has been a godsend for the Cowtowners. Although his touchdown-to-interception ratio (14-8) isn’t as good as Harris’s (18-7), the two veteran QBs have given their teams a chance to win almost every time out. After six seasons in Montreal and two in B.C., Adams is enjoying his first year with the Stamps. Running back Dedrick Mills will easily surpass 1,000 yards rushing and receivers Dominique Rhymes and Jalen Philpot have shown to be dependable targets.
In Regina, Harris, who is with his fifth CFL team,
has been a steadying influence as the Riders beat everybody except Calgary. A.J. Ouellette has carried much of the offensive load, averaging more than 70 rushing yards per game. Harris has had great aerial success, finding Dohnte Meyers for six touchdown passes through 10 games and KeeSean Johnson for another three.
Not surprisingly, the Riders and Stampeders are among the league leaders in team defence. Saskatchewan is No. 1, giving up 339 yards per game, while Calgary is fourth, allowing opponents to generate 359 yards per game.
CFL fans are circling Nov. 9 on their calendars because that’s when Calgary and Saskatchewan are likely to meet in the Western final. The winner will go on to play for the Grey Cup and there’s a good chance one of the Stampeders’ all-time greats, quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, will be wearing black and gold for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in that game.
• Columnist Norman Chad: “Baseball’s No. 1 pitching prospect, 22-year-old Bubba Chandler, made his MLB debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He pitched four shutout innings of relief, allowing two hits. Chandler is seeking to become first pitcher in history not to allow a run in his MLB career.”
• Steve Hofstetter, on bluesky, after the major Kelce-Swift engagement announcement:: “Congratulations to Travis Kelce on his latest champi-
onship ring.”
• Conor Orr of SI.com, blasting the Dallas Cowboys for their trade of edge rusher Micah Parsons to Green Bay: “The Cowboys are less a cogent franchise than a series of laughable gaffes layered atop one another like rickety sheets of plywood.”
• Jack Finarelli at sportscurmudgeon.com: “ The flurry of lime-green dildos arriving on the courts during WNBA games seems to have petered out … sorry, could not resist.”
• Greg Cote of the Miami Herald, in his annual NFL preview: “QB Aaron Rodgers will be about the same miracle worker for Pittsburgh as he was for the Jets. Meaning a lousy one.”
• Norman Chad again: “The New Orleans announced Spencer Rattler as their starting quarterback. Thoughts and prayers.”
• Jack Finarelli again: “Terry McLaurin got an extension that was to his satisfaction from the Commanders. Amazingly, his ankle injury that had him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list was also resolved and he began practicing with the team.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “The Nebraska State Fair broke a record for the longest parade of old tractors when over 1,100 showed up. In Canada, that’s just part of the last-minute Labour Day crowd at Mosaic Stadium.”
• Headline at the onion.com: “Record-Breaking Number Of Viewers Now Following WNBA Players Home”
• Another onion.com headline: “Scalpers Jack Up Price Of Colorado Rockies Ticket To $11”
• Another one from fark.com: “One reason why your NFL team will disappoint in 2025. Jets fans: Wait a sec…only one?”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
POPULAR DESTINATION BACK IN THE DAY! Back in the 1920s Tramping Lake Regional Park was a popular summer holiday destination. A 30’ x 70’ swimming pool was located on the east side of the lake. A pump, driven from a threshing machine belt and tractor (lent out from a neighbour) pumped water from the lake to the pool via pipe and trough. The pipe was taken down when the pool was full. The total cost to build the pool amounted to $700.00. The well-constructed diving platform at the Tramping Lake swimming pool was very popular. The kids on the diving board are: Lawrence Greer, Lloyd Bell, Ted Sample and Mary Greer.
On Thursday, September 4, Minister of Energy and Resources Colleen Young toured two key southeast facilities that support innovative and sustainable energy production: Whitecap Resources Inc.’s enhanced oil recovery (EOR) project in Weyburn, and Steel Reef Infrastructure Corp.’s (Steel Reef) Viewfield gas processing facility, including their combined heat and power project, in the Estevan area.
“Our oil and gas sector is a bedrock of the provincial economy, supporting jobs, families and a massive service and supply industry,” Young said. “Saskatchewan energy producers have a proven track record of developing and implementing new technologies to reduce emissions and keep production strong into the future. Our province is ready to play a key role in helping Canada realize its potential to be a global energy superpower.”
The Weyburn CO2 EOR project has been operating for nearly 25 years. It collects carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial emitters and injects the gas underground to enhance oil recovery. To date, the facility has stored more than 44 megatonnes of CO2 which is the equivalent to removing 9,310,647 cars off the road for one year. It has also produced over 120 million barrels of oil during this time.
“Whitecap is proud to own and operate one of the world’s largest carbon sequestration facilities, right here in Saskatchewan,” Whitecap Resources Inc. Senior Vice President of Business Development and IT Dave Mombourquette said. “This project helped pioneer enhanced oil recovery and world-leading best practices for EOR project implementation. It continues to enable low-decline, stable oil production while also reducing emissions. Saskatchewan’s foresight in capturing CO2 from Boundary Dam continues to pay dividends as the current main source of CO2 that drives Weyburn’s EOR recovery today. The province’s attractive energy policies, combined with its skilled workforce, make Saskatchewan an ideal place for us to continue our investment to realize the full potential of the province’s vast energy resources.”
Steel Reef continues to support associated gas capture from oil production. Instead of associated gas simply being vented or flared to the atmosphere, the gas is collected and processed into various saleable products and used to generate electricity. The company has used the Government of Saskatchewan’s Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive (OGPII) several times to support its flare gas capture investments in the province. Steel Reef has built the first phase of its combined heat and power project at its Viewfield gas processing facility in the Estevan area, which includes a turbine for power generation and integrated waste heat recovery units, reducing the need for associated gas consumption for utility and process heat for flare gas processing.
With phase 2, Steel Reef will install additional turbines and electrical substations at Viewfield, as well as its facilities
in Coleville, North Portal, Saskatchewan Ethane Extraction Plant (SEEP), and Steelman to align with multiple long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with SaskPower to provide in excess of 100 megawatts (MWs) of carbon efficient power for Saskatchewan communities. On average, each site will produce approximately 20 megawatts of power to be brought onto the SaskPower grid by late 2027.
“We were pleased to tour our Viewfield facility alongside the Government of Saskatchewan to highlight the importance of economic growth and shaping a reliable, responsible and sustainable energy future,” Steel Reef Infrastructure Corp. Chief Operating Officer Austin Voss said. “This was an opportunity to showcase how we are advancing emissions-to-energy technologies, and how we are investing in electricity generating turbines powered by recovered flare gas. This process reduces emissions and provides electricity from a previously unavailable source. By working with the government and industry peers - and thanks to the dedication of our talented employees - we are strengthening Saskatchewan’s energy sector and delivering long-term opportunities for growth and competitiveness.”
The ministry continues to promote the responsible development of Saskatchewan’s oil and gas resources through various emissions reduction programs. As of 2024, Saskatchewan’s oil and gas sector has reduced emissions from venting and flaring at upstream oil facilities by 71 per cent, compared with 2015 levels.
Saskatchewan is a global leader in low emissions oil production from EOR. The Government of Saskatchewan urges the Government of Canada to support sustainable oil production, including by making EOR an eligible use of captured CO2 under the federal Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Investment Tax Credit. Saskatchewan’s competitive royalty structure, stable and predictable regulatory approach, programs that support innovation, emissions reductions, and new infrastructure make the province one of the best places in the world to invest in oil and gas.
Only
harvested in west central area
Dry conditions in most of the province last week allowed producers to make significant progress in the field. Currently, 23 per cent of crops have been harvested, which is up from the 11 per cent reported last week. Harvest progress remains behind the five-year average of 40 per cent and the 10-year average of 34 per cent.
The southwest region continues to lead with 39 per cent of this year’s crop in the bin. The southeast region follows closely with 33 per cent of the crop harvested. Producers have harvested 16 per cent of crops in the east-central, followed by 13 per cent in the northeast, and 12 per cent in the northwest regions. The west-central region has the most crops remaining in the field with only 10 per cent of crops harvested.
Most winter cereal acres are off with 91 per cent of winter wheat and 88 per cent of fall rye harvested. Pulse crop harvest has also substantially increased last week with 73 per cent of field peas and 60 per cent of lentils in the bin. For spring cereal crops, triticale is the furthest ahead at 61 per cent, followed by barley at 34 per cent and durum at 30 per cent. Oats are 17 per cent and spring wheat is 14 per cent completed. Most oilseed crops are still in the field. Mustard is the furthest advanced at 10 per cent harvested, followed by canola at four per cent. No flax crops have been reported as harvested yet.
Most parts of the province were dry last week with only small amounts of rain falling in the southwest. The Piapot area reported the highest amount of rainfall for the week at 25 millimetres (mm), followed by the Dollard area at 20 mm. The Cadillac and Shaunavon areas received 18 mm over the past week.
Producers were happy with the limited rainfall that allowed them to make steady harvest progress, but this also caused a slight decline in topsoil moisture levels. Currently, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 67 per cent adequate, 29 per cent
Producers were happy with the limited rainfall that allowed them to make steady harvest progress, but this also caused a slight decline in topsoil moisture levels.
short and two per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 55 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Pasture topsoil moisture is rated as three per cent surplus, 51 per cent adequate, 37 per cent short and nine per cent very short. Producers are hopeful for rain following harvest to help replenish soil moisture conditions and mitigate fire risk.
Crop damage reported over the past week was mainly due to wind and dry conditions. Crop regrowth and lodging have caused some challenges for producers while combining. Grasshoppers and bertha armyworms continue to cause minor crop damage in some regions of the province.
As producers continue with harvest and other field work, they are reminded to exercise caution and remain safe in all the work that they do. Fire risk remains high in many areas due to the dry conditions. In addition to carrying fire extinguishers on equipment, producers are encouraged to have water trucks and tillage equipment on standby to mitigate risk.
Harvest can be a stressful time on the farm. The Farm Stress Line provides toll free support at 1-800667-4442.
SHUT THE FRONT DOOR !!!
We were cool. What happened??
BY KEITH SCHELL
Back in high school, we either thought we were cool or were desperately trying to be. In reality, we were just a bunch of insecure, awkward kids entering adulthood, trying to act cool, funny, or desirable to the opposite sex. But many of us were generally too scared to actually interact with them in any meaningful way. Some kids dated, and some didn’t.
But as you get older, the battle to stay cool is generally a losing one.
When my youngest brother got married, he was no help to maintaining coolness whatsoever. When he and his wife had kids, they bought the ultimate automotive symbol of uncool: the minivan. Very necessary for hauling a growing family around, but still very uncool.
Once, on a family visit to his place, I went out one afternoon cruising with my brother in his minivan (we actually had to go to the store to get some milk), and he said to me, “How about some tunes along the way?” COOL! Let’s get this van a-rockin’! So he took out a rock and roll CD, popped it in the player, and cranked up the music. Maybe there was some hope here for coolness after all.
When I went off to college, I thought everything would change, but all I found were other students in my new classes trying to be cool as well. Using the example of the ‘Happy Days’ TV sitcom, I was hoping to find coolness, but I was definitely never ‘Fonzie’ cool because my regular uncool self always kept getting in the way. I was more like ‘Richie’ cool, which was really not cool at all! Instead of a motorbike, which I would be too chicken to ride anyway, I had a second-hand car. Instead of a black leather jacket, I bought a blue leather college jacket with the name of my college on the back, only to later discover that the jacket I bought was the last jacket the student store had left in my size, and it was only still there because it was last year’s style! Not exactly the epitome of cool.
The old land yacht I drove back and forth to college back then just had an uncool AM-FM radio in it, so a buddy of mine came out to our house one weekend to show me how to install my brand new eight-track tape player underneath the dashboard and hook it up to the two stereo speakers we put in the back window of my car. Now we’re approaching cool! When I stuck my first 8-track tape in that player and my favourite rock ‘n roll tunes started blaring out, I thought I was the King of Cool as I drove down the highway heading back to college. Little did I know.
It was only when the song started playing that I realized that the only CDs he had in his kid-friendly minivan were the Sesame Street versions of famous rock and roll songs! We were rockin’ down the road loud and proud to the song ‘Letter B’, the Sesame Street version of the famous Beatles song, ‘Let it be’. Sigh. I don’t think the babes were very impressed with us when they saw us rolling up to the stoplight.
In one particular episode of ‘The Simpsons’, Abe Simpson hit the coolness issue right on the head: In a flashback sequence when a teenage Homer told his dad he had lost his cool and wasn’t ‘with it’ anymore, Abe replied, “I used to be ‘with it’. And then ‘it’ changed! Suddenly, what I was with wasn’t ‘it’ and what was ‘it’ was weird and scary!” And then he pointed a finger at teenage Homer and warned him, “IT’LL HAPPEN TO YOU!”
And it did. It happened to all of us.
So why did it happen?
The simple answer is: because we grew up. As soon as you become an adult and begin to assume adult responsibilities, you lose whatever cool you have left. The moment you start to become more concerned
Keith Schell
about how your lawn looks over how your hair looks, you have finally lost the last of your cool.
I don’t want to be uncool! But over time, like the gradual erosion of a rock face by a running stream, your coolness leaves you bit by bit as you age. If possible, I’d like to try to keep a little bit of coolness as I get older. I don’t want to be the old guy in the neighbourhood who the kids run up to my door, ring the bell, and run away! (But I guess it could be worse. At least there haven’t been any flaming bags of dog doody on my front doorstep on Halloween.)
Nowadays, I just want peace and quiet. Quiet gatherings are fine, but I don’t like the neighbors having loud parties in their backyard. And I sometimes watch ‘Vision TV’, the unofficial ‘Old Fogey’ station of Canadian television (Moses Znaimer can dress up his Zoomer station all he wants, but it’s still uncool ‘Old
Fogey’ TV and I’m happy watching that).
Okay, I finally admit it: in reality, I was never cool. I was just me. And it’s getting worse as I get older. Most of my life I was just kind of the ‘Switzerland of cool’, neutrally straddling the fence of cool with the pinky toe of one foot in the land of coolness and the other foot completely stuck in the quagmire of total nerd-dom!
So, I guess the moral of the story is this: if you have to be something, the best thing you can ultimately be is to be yourself. In Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, Polonius once said to his son Laertes, “To thine own self be true”. And he was absolutely right. Being yourself is the only way to go.
Later, uncool cats! I’m going to go and watch Vision TV.
And like me, if you’re never going to be cool, just do the best you can.
Maverick Oliphant receives well-wishes from Mrs. Powers on the first day back at Eston Composite School.
PHOTO BY HELENKA BERNARD
Family budget: 6 tips for surviving rising prices
Ask your employees what your company could improve and add these to their benefits and perks. For example, you
days, yoga classes, flexible working hours
Let them know they’re heard and that you take them seriously.
2. Think about development. ten quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities. Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their po tential, avoid boredom and take on new challenges.
ties 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.
WE ARE HIRING! WE ARE HIRING!
Elementary Home Room Teacher
Substitute Teachers
Non-Certificated Classroom Supervisors
Relief Education Assistants
For more information, contact Clarence Pereira at cpereira@redeemer.ab.ca or 403-938-8562
From food and rent to gasoline and electricity, families must juggle increasing costs in every facet of life. A few simple, practical strategies can help you keep on track with your budget. Here are six you can try.
1. Analyze your finances. Every month, create a detailed list of your income and expenses. Creating a clear picture of your financial situation is the starting point for better management of
your family finances.
2. Set priorities. If you need to adjust your budget, separate essential needs, such as housing, food and medication, from discretionary expenses, such as leisure activities, outings and travel.
3. Make smart choices at the grocery store. Use flyers to find the best deals, compare prices and choose store brands. Cooking meals instead of buy-
Whether you already work in information technology (IT) or are just starting your studies, here are three qualities essential to your success.
ing ready-to-eat options can also add up to significant savings.
4. Automate your savings. Set aside money for unexpected expenses by arranging automatic deposits into a savings account. This small step can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
1. ANALYTICAL SKILLS
Town of Leader - Office of the Administrator 151 - 1st St. West, Leader, SK S0N 1H0 Phone: 306-628-3868 Fax: 306-628-4337 Email: cao@leader.ca
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.
How to welcome a teleworking employee
To apply, please visit the Careers page on the Christ The Redeemer Catholic Schools website
R.M. OF PRAIRIEDALE NO. 321 OPERATING FOREMAN
The Rural Municipality of Prairiedale No. 321 is currently accepting applications for the full-time position of Operating Foreman. The R.M.of Prairiedale offers a competitive wage and benefits package.
As Foreman, you will be responsible for, but not limited to, overseeing the dayto-day operations of RM’s maintenance and utility duties, including road grading, snow plowing, shop work, and equipment maintenance.
Key Responsibilities:
• Supervise and organize day to day maintenance and utility duties
• Schedule, plan and report to Council and take directives from Council on a regular basis
• Grade/snowplow roads
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.
lean on and contact if they need help. This will help them feel at ease.
• Lead a team of grader and utility operators
Preference will be given to candidates who possess:
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work well with Council, Administration, and staff
• Talk about the company. Describe the company’s mission, values and other information to help the employee develop a sense of belonging.
• 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.
• Demonstrates strong leadership, organizational and management skills
• Self motivated with a strong work ethic
• Work independently with little guidance
• Minimum of 5 years experience operating a grader, tractor and other maintenance equipment
• Valid class 5 driver’s license
• Present your tools. Familiarize the employee with the tools, software and online platforms the company uses daily.
• 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.
• Mechanical ability with troubleshooting ability
• Offer mentoring. Ensure the new employee knows they have someone they can
We would like to thank all applicants for their interest but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Are you looking for telecommuting employees to join your team? Do business with a recruitment service.
Please submit your resume with references to: administrator@rmofprairiedale.ca PO Box 160
Major, SK S0L 2H0
306-834-1201 (Phone)
you must be good at conveying your ideas, making yourself understood and finding the best moments to do so.
5. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions. Review subscriptions to streaming services or other platforms that you rarely use. Cancelling these can free up extra funds in your budget.
3. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
PUBLIC WORKS FOREMAN
The Town of Leader is currently seeking applications for the position of PUBLIC WORKS FOREMAN.
Qualifications Required:
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license
2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients. This means
• Working knowledge of computers
• Experience with supervision and management of staff
• Water Treatment Distribution Level 2 certification*
• Supervisory Certificate*
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.
• WHIMIS, TDG, Confined Spaces and Ground Disturbance*
*Denotes qualifications that may be obtained within the first two years of employment.
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.
This is a full-time, permanent position with full benefits. The wage scale for this position is in accordance with the Town of Leader/ SEIU - West Collective Agreement. The successful candidate will be required to enroll in the SEIU - West Union.
6. Renegotiate your insurance fees and other service plans. Compare offers from multiple companies for your car, life and home insurance, as well as your internet or cell phone services. A renegotiation could reduce your monthly payments considerably.
WHEN TO REFUSE
A complete copy of the job descriprtion, as well as information pertaining to compensation, can be obtained by visiting www.leader.ca or calling the Town Office.
WHEN TO ACCEPT
Applications for this position will be received until a suitable candidate is hired and can be sent to: cao@leader.ca
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.
We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Finally, don’t hesitate to get the whole family involved. Talking about money in a positive and transparent way helps establish healthy financial habits from an early age. Be a role model for your children!
If you sincerely doubt that you’ll enjoy your everyday tasks, the job probably isn’t for you. The same applies if most of your skills and educational achievements don’t apply to the job and won’t contribute to your professional development. Finally, it may be best to refuse the position if the salary is significantly lower than your expectations or if the company has a high turnover rate.
Are you having trouble making ends meet? Consult a financial professional for personalized advice.
Are you having trouble finding a job that suits you? Consult job hunting resources in your area.
HIRING HIRING
Include ad spaces to generate revenue from the content on these pages.
14,
Saskatchewan’s pulse farmers overlooked
REGINA — The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) welcomes the federal government’s measures to start addressing trade disruptions and support Canadian agriculture, noting how several initiatives align with APAS’s requests. However, the organization is calling attention to a significant gap: the lack of support for the pulse sector, a cornerstone of Saskatchewan’s agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
versifying export markets, and promoting domestic renewable fuel production. These include:
• Advance Payments Program (APP) - Doubling the interest-free portion for canola advances to$500,000 for the 2025-26 program years, providing much-needed liquidity during uncertain times.
responding to these pressing needs.
However, Prybylski was quick to point out an important omission in the federal measures: the exclusion of the pulse industry, which is equally affected by trade disruptions. APAS notes that in 2024, Saskatchewan farmers produced 1.5 million metric tonnes of peas. Today’s market conditions equate to a $150 million loss to farmers—yet no specific support for pulses was mentioned.
While APAS acknowledges the value of the federal government’s response, particularly the decision to double the interest-free portion of the Advance Payments Program (APP) to $500,000 in 2025-26, questions remain about whether it is comprehensive enough to meet the needs of Saskatchewan farmers.
“To really see what we’re up against, just look at the impact of tariffs on pea prices. They’ve already cost one farmer nearly $300,000 this harvest. The new changes to the cash advance program are a help—it’ll save us a few thousand dollars. But compared to the huge losses from these tariffs, that’s just a drop in the bucket,” said Bill Prybylski, President of APAS. “We’re thankful for this bit of help during such a tough time, but we’ve got to ask ourselves is this enough to deal with the bigger problems that are hurting Saskatchewan farmers right now?”
APAS commends the government’s specific measures aimed at improving financial flexibility for producers, di-
• AgriMarketing Program Expansion - A $75 million investment over five years to diversify exports into highgrowth markets such as Africa, the Indo-Pacific, and the Middle East, reducing reliance on volatile markets like China.
• Biofuel Production Incentives - $370 million over the next two years for biofuel production, indirectly supporting domestic demand for Canadian feedstocks like canola.
• Regional Tariff Response Initiative - designed to quickly address tariff barriers that specifically impact regional agriculture sectors, providing targeted support to ensure these sectors can remain competitive on the global stage.
“These are positive and necessary steps forward, and they reflect progress on the priorities we’ve raised with the federal government,” Prybylski said.
“The expanded interest- free Advance Payments limits and AgriMarketing focus on market diversification are critical tools for Saskatchewan farmers dealing with the fallout from global trade disputes—it’s good to see the government
“That’s a $150 million hit to farmers and their bottom lines,” Prybylski explained. “Pulses aren’t just another crop—they’re vital to sustainable farming in Saskatchewan. They play a crucial role in crop rotation, bolstering soil health, reducing input needs, and lowering environmental footprints. Ignoring this sector fails to recognize its importance to our economic success and environmental sustainability.”
APAS also raised concerns about the government’s commitment to domestic processing capacity, noting that the biofuel incentives are a step in the right direction but fall short of addressing broader value-added projects like those required for pulses.
As the job market becomes increasingly com petitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.
Focus on communication. 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.
“We need meaningful investments in domestic processing for ALL commodities. We’ve been urging support for projects like Federated Co-operatives and Bunge’s Regina projects for canola, but pulses seem to have been left completely out of the conversation,” Prybylski added.
He urged the federal government to take a more comprehensive approach, ensuring a level playing field across all sectors. “The canola measures are welcome, but trade disruptions don’t discriminate—they hurt everyone. The pulse sector is facing the same uncertainties as canola and leaving them out of these plans affects all of us. The success of Saskatchewan farming is interconnected; if one sector struggles, we all feel it.”
While APAS is encouraged by the federal government’s recognition of agriculture as a strategic industry, it warns that piecemeal measures will not suffice in the face of growing global trade challenges. A more inclusive approach is required—one that supports all commodities impacted, accelerates investment in value-added processing facilities, and secures long-term market stability for farmers.
Think about development. ten quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities.Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their po tential,avoid boredom and take on new challenges.
Town of Kindersley announces scheduled water tower cleaning and inspection
BY KATE WINQUIST
KINDERSLEY — The Town of Kindersley is committed to maintaining the reliability and safety of its water supply. As part of this commitment, a vital cleaning and inspection of the water tower will take place on Thursday, September 11. During this maintenance operation, the water tower will be offline until it is refilled to full capacity. To ensure the safety of residents, water restriction measures will be implemented during the work and until the water tower is back online.
Residents may experience temporary sediment or discolouration in their water supply, as water pressure will be supplied solely from the Water Treatment Plant during this time. Please be assured that this is normal and will resolve once the tower is back in operation.
The Town of Kindersley appreciates your understanding and cooperation as they carry out these essential maintenance activities to ensure the continued quality of the water supply.
Bill Prybylski, APAS
Classifieds
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE ESTATE OF DARLENE JANET FERGUSON, LATE OF LEADER, SASKATCHEWAN, DECEASED. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 20th day of September, 2025.
MA. ICASIANA DE GALA
Solicitor to the Administrator
Anderson & Company
Barristers and Solicitors
Box 610, 51 - 1st Avenue NW Swift Current, SK S9H 0M5
Tel: 306-773-2891
Fax: 306-778-3364
Email: anderson.company@andlaw.ca
FEED AND SEED
AGPRO - BUYING:
FEED BARLEY & HEATED CANOLA For Bids, Call/Text: 306-873-0481 or visit: agproseeds.com
AGPRO MARKET REPORT: Farmers, call to sign up for Free Today!
SIBBALD HOTEL For
Sale or Rent
7 Rooms - Parking Lot Contact yiming6deer@yahoo.com or call 306-460-7856 for more information.
80th
Come & Go Birthday Celebration for Larry Lyons Saturday, September 27 2:00 PM at the Brock Community Centre Everyone Welcome!
HEALTH
FARMLAND WANTED
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
membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.
PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 47 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.
LIVESTOCK FOR SALE
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
Boar power! If you’re looking to breed pigs for spring weanlings we have the boar for you. Check on FBook at Kern’s hog farm. Call / text 306-774-6941
KERROBERT COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM WINNERS! Kerrobert’s Communities in Bloom handed out their winners and honourable mentions last month. The winners of the Most Beautiful Yard were Shane and Jeanine Molnar, with Honourable Mention to Glenda Thiessen. Most Improved went to Joy Reynolds, with Honourable Mention to Kiley Richmond and Ryan Schell.
The Best Business winners were The Vintage Marketplace, with the Kerrobert Courthouse receiving an Honourable Mention.
AD RATES (20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each.
is Friday noon. 306-463-2211
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306649-1405 to find out how!
WANTED
MISCELLANEOUS
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
Vintage Marketplace –Best Business Shane and Jeanine Molnar – Most Beautiful Yard
Glenda Thiessen – Hourable Mention
West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre
and Confidential Counselling Services
Programs:
• Mental Health & Addictions
• Family Support (FSW) & Diversion Support
• Family Violence Intervention (FVI)
• Rapid Access Counselling (RAC) for Children Youth/Caregivers
• Rapid Access for Counselling (RAC) for Adults
• Crisis Intervention & Debriefing
• Suicide Intervention & Suicide Impact Supports
• Sexual Assault Victim Support
• Trafficking Intervention
• Family Intervention Rapid Support Teams (FIRST)
• Client Advocacy
• Intimate Partner Violence Intervention
• Court Mandated Supports
The West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre’s mission is to provide support services to individuals and families experiencing trauma, violence, addiction, or crisis in their lives, as well as outreach programs to communities within our boundaries.
Programming and support services funded by Saskatchewan Ministries of Justice, Social Services, and Health as well as generous contributions from local businesses and community members. The Centre is a registered non-profit, providing tax receipts for donations of $20 or more.
HEY KIDS (AGES 5-12)
Start up your creative engines and begin building a
VEGGIE VEHICLE
Potatoes, Carrots, Pumpkins, Peppers, Cucumbers, Melons, Zucchini and more can be transformed into your very own creative Car Show Entry
VEGGIE CAR SHOW
The Eatonia Spartans hosted their home opener last Thursday. They fought hard, but came up short. Lots of Spartan pride on the field with four towns (Eatonia, Marengo, Eston and Leader) worth of sensational players, parent helpers, student linesman, staff scorekeepers, coaches and two mystery Spartan Mascots! Pictured is Grady Stevens running hard.
SPARTAN PRIDE!
PHOTO COURTESY EATON SCHOOL
The Town of Kerrobert Fire Department, volunteers and town employees all pitched in to help clean the arena floor last week. Getting prepped for a busy season once again. PHOTO TOWN OF KERROBERT CULTURE AND RECREATION
Meet A Machine event grows and promotes literacy
BY KATE WINQUIST
The “Meet A Machine” event, held on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Kindersley & District Plains Museum, was a tremendous success. Even before the event began, eager children and their families were lined up to enter.
Organized by the Kindersley Community Connections group, with support from the West Central Literacy Committee and West Central Play-Mobile, Inc., the family-friendly occasion showcased a variety of machines and the heroes who operate them. Attendees could see fire trucks, police cruisers, ambulances, school buses, tractors, combines, race cars, garbage trucks, graders, and more.
We spoke with Tina McGonigal, the coordinator for the West Central Literacy Committee. She shared,
“Ang Malcolm and I are part of the same committee, working on literacy projects throughout the west central area. I attended this event last year and also participated in the Goose Festival alongside Ang, where we distributed book bags.”
McGonigal noted that she anticipates the event will continue to grow as awareness increases. “Last year, we had over 100 families, and so far this year, approximately 150 people have signed in.” She also suggested that it would be beneficial to host a similar, smaller event in the communities of Biggar and Rosetown.
West Central Abilities provided a fundraiser BBQ, made possible by generous donations from the Kindersley & District Co-op and Save On Foods.
Ralph Marston
PHOTOS BY KATE WINQUIST
The Norman Ritchie Community Centre will soon be renamed. The decision was made at the regular meeting of Town Council on August 11th when the Council of the Town of Kindersley resolved to rename the Norman Ritchie Community Centre to the Norman Ritchie Community Arts Centre. The change was made as the facility serves as a community hub for arts and entertainment in Kindersley. The name change will be displayed in future signage, which will reflect the Kindersley and District Arts Council’s upcoming concerts at Kindersley’s “Home to the Arts”.
PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Laurie Earl Rupert (Cooter)
August 6, 1936 – August 14, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laurie Earl Rupert on August 14, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of 89.
Born in Union Hospital in Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, on August 6, 1936, Laurie grew up in a close-knit community and was involved in numerous sports including soccer, baseball, broomball, and hockey. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of playing for the Kerrobert Tigers.
years, he played Santa Claus bringing joy to countless children and a few adults too! His basement “Santaʼs Workshop” was always open to anyone needing something fixed. He also coached youth soccer and hockey and proudly drove the Zamboni for the Fairview Community Association, where he was known as “The Mayor of Farrell Road”.
In 1956, Laurie moved to Calgary where he began working at the CP Rail shops in Ogden. He started in the greenhouse, working with plants, before completing a five-year electrical apprenticeship and earning his Electrical Journeyman certificate. Laurieʼs career at CP Rail spanned 44 years, during which he held several important positions within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), including Co-chairman of the Shop Safety Committee, eight years as Shop Steward (Local 1033), two years as Shop Chairman, and 17 years as Shop Chairman of IBEW Local 1033. He also served 10 years as Regional General Chairman of the Pacific Region.
After retiring from CP Rail in 2000, Laurie remained actively involved with the CP Rail Pensioners Club, serving as its President from 2020 until stepping down in 2024.
Laurie married his first wife, Lillian Francis Rupert (née Andrianakos), in 1961, and together they raised four children. He was predeceased by Lillian in 1998. In 1999, he met Nettie Sinclair, and they married in 2000, sharing 25 years together.
In his later years, Laurie found joy in bowling, golfing, and cheering passionately for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Calgary Flames. He loved camping in his beloved camper van “The Blue Daniel,” traveling to the Okanagan and Oregon Coast. He also cherished summers spent with family at the Armstrong, BC home of his aunts, Lillian and Jessie Fraser.
Laurie had a special place in his heart for children. For over 30
Known for his great sense of humour, warm heart, and natural curiosity, Laurie had the unique gift of making everyone feel seen and heard.
Laurie was predeceased by his parents, Percival Redvers Rupert and Margaret Louise Rupert, his wife Lillian, his brother Fraser Rupert, and in-laws Bruce Forrest, Laverne Thiessen, Brian Bosworth, Tony Smith, and Joanne Smith.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Nettie Rupert (Sinclair); sisters Mary Lou Forrest (Bruce) and Glenda Thiessen (Laverne); and sister-inlaw Mary Anne Rupert (Fraser) and Evanthia Bosworth (Brian). He leaves behind his children:Cindy Barr (Ian); Bruce Rupert (Ramona); Twyla Nurcombe; Neil Rupert (Danielle). Grandchildren: Zachary Nurcombe, Matthew Barr, Olivia Barr, Quinn Rupert, Natalie Rupert, Alexandra Rupert, and Taylor Rupert. Laurie also embraced and cherished his extended family: Larry (Mary) Belik – children Carey (predeceased 2023) and Darren (Melanie), grandchildren Abbey & Griffin; Wayne (Joyce) Belik – children Charity, Robin, & Kyle; Calvin Vass – children Eliza, Madeline, & Emerick; Darlene (Paul) Seguin – children Destin (Tess) & Belle (Andrew); Lee Ann (Brian) Valberg – children Jared & Nichole
A special “Thank You” to all the staff at the Rockyview Hospital, South Calgary Hospital and the Southwood Hospice.
Laurieʼs life was rich with love, laughter, and meaningful connections. His legacy lives on in the many people he inspired, mentored, and loved. He will be dearly missed.
Vern’s Pizza
On Thursday, August 5, 2025 at 7:54 in the morning, Donald Grant Thompson began his final adventure as he left his earthly existence.
Donald Grant Thompson
March 14, 1939 - August 5, 2025
Born on March 14, 1939 at his Thompson grandparents home on NE23-27-21W3, north west of Eston, Grant blew into this world in the middle of one of the worst snowstorms of that year .
When he was three years old the family moved to SW26-27-21W3, land purchased from the Hudson Bay Company. Grant often recalled a trip to Winnipeg when his father went to the Company offices to pay off the land. In 1948, a new three-bedroom house was built which became the Thompson family home and Grant’s home for the next 66 years.
Grant attended Newburg School to Grade eight then, as this was before the advent of bussing in the area, attended “the Dorm” in Kindersley, the source of many adventures, long tales and lasting friendships. Travel to Kindersley was often by train on a Sunday evening, boarding at Eston with stops at Madison and Glidden. His sister, Meda, lived the adventure with him.
Grant briefly attended the University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture before branching out into the world, working with an oilfield supply company in eastern Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Another great adventure awaited in 1963 when he, along with several other farm boys from the area, worked for General Motors in Oshawa, Ontario, another source of delightful stories.
Grant began farming in 1967 when he purchased three quarters of a section on 18-17-20W3 known locally as “the Whaley place”. For the next few years he held a number of winter jobs including working in the men’s department at the Robert Simpson store in downtown Toronto and driving taxi in Saskatoon. In 1975-76 he travelled the prairies as one of the three enquiry officers for the Hall Commission on Grain Handling and Transportation.
On April 10, 1976 Grant married Verna Diane Murray in Thunder Bay, Ontario thus beginning another life adventure. In 1987, they purchased
A life that touches others goes on forever.
The Eston Press and The Elrose Review, later joining the two papers as the Eston Press Review. Grant ran the administrative side of the paper and doubled as the sports and general reporter, a role he delighted in. In his mementoes are media passes from the 1998 Team Canada vs Belarus game, two University Cups and the 1987 Royal Visit to Kindersley. Ownership of the paper led to an active role with the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association and travel across Canada and from one end of Saskatchewan to the other.
Grant loved farming; he loved his community and was active in it. Like his father and grandfather, Grant was a councillor for the R.M. of Snipe Lake. He later also worked for the R.M. and, again following in his father’s footsteps, became first the R.M.’s weed inspector and then its pest control officer. As councillor, he served on the local Recreation Board and the Eston Union Hospital Board and was a member of the committee overseeing the construction of the Eston Clinic, now the Town Office.
He was chairman of the Big Country Anglican Parish and for several years represented Holy Cross Eston at the provincial Anglican synod.
A man with strong political beliefs, he was chairman of the local Liberal association and enjoyed attending several national conventions.
Grant is survived by Verna, his wife of 49 years, two daughters, Bronwen of Edmonton and Jennifer of Regina, his sister Meda Nesselbeck of Edmonton and her four children, Diane (Paul) Bothwell, Mark (Melanie) , Brian (Ver) and Kim (Praveen) Jain as well as several grandnieces and nephews, cousins and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Donald Arthur and Helen Thompson, his sister Beth Brailean, and his in-laws Charles and Doreen Murray of Thunder Bay, Ontario.
In his last years as his health deteriorated, Grant was comforted by the presence of his beloved cats. Rosie and Blackie are accompanying him on this last adventure; Neighbour and Skeezik carry on their own adventures in the Eston home that Grant lived in for the last 10 years of his life.
Interment is in his chosen spot near the trees in the Eston cemetery following a service at St. Andrews United Church on Friday, August 12 with Pastor Doreen Hewitson leading the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Shanidar Funeral Services, Rosetown.
Thank you…
Perhaps you sent a lovely card or sat quietly in a chair.
Perhaps you sent those beautiful flowers that we saw sitting there,
Perhaps you spoke the kindest words, that anyone could say.
Perhaps you were not there at all, just thought of us that day.
Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you so much for whatever the part.
With sincerest gratitude for your caring, The Kon Family
TUESDAY
BASIC FURNACE SERVICE $14995
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
• Coleville Fowl Supper at the Community Hall. Doors open at 5:00 PM until supplies last. For information or to donate, please contact Stacey (306) 430-7788 or Teneal (306) 430-1188. All proceeds go to supporting the Coleville Licensed Daycare Committee and Coleville Playschool.
DENZIL
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
• Bones and a Meal sponsored by Denzil Rec Board 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
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
• 3rd Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. 9 Hole.
4 Person Best Ball. 1:00 PM Tee Off Kerrobert Golf Course. Call or text Kim to register before September 12: 1-780-8083642.
• Kerrobert Sr. Rebels vs Plenty 7:00 PM
OCTOBER 6-9
• Kerrobert Minor Hockey Power Skating (1 hour sessions) at the Kerrobert Memorial Arena. Focus on safe body contact, angling and confidence building skills. $150 per person.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10
• Kerrobert Sr. Rebels vs Macklin 8:00 PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11
• Harvest Festival at the Courthouse Courtyard. Join us for an afternoon of fun, food and festivities as we celebrate the bounty of the season!
- 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.
- Walk This Way with Lao Thursdays at the PCC from 9:3010:30 AM. Everyone is welcome and it’s FREE.
- Ladies Golf Tuesday at 5:30 PM. Mens Night Thursdays at 5:30 PM. Call to register 306-834-2497.
KINDERSLEY
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10
• Special Olympics Kindersley Registration Night 6:00-8:00 PM at Elizabeth Middle School Library. Bowling, Boccee Ball and Swimming (New Program!). Please contact Shauna at 306-460-7273 with any question.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
• 45th Terry Fox Run starting at the Motherwell Reservoir at The Beach 11:00 AM. 2-7 km loops for all ability levels.
• Sledge Hockey Showcase Game: Kindersley Klippers Sledge vs SJHL Kindersley Klippers 1:00 PM Co-op Arena. Join us after the game to try out Sledge Hockey. Helmet and
WITH HARVEST IN FULL SWING ... remember Kindersley Bearing for all of your aftermarket harvest components from bearings, belts, roller chain, sections, guards, A/C replacement refrigerant, etc. WE ARE YOUR DEALER FOR:
WILKE SALES
hockey gloves required. Registration on-site for the 20252026 season!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
• Junior Golf Sectionals 1:00 PM at Kindersley Regional Park Golf Course.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
• Goose Festival Days. Watch for further details!
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
• KCS Kobras Football vs Delisle 7:30 PM at KCS (under the lights).
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
• Show & Shine hosted by Roadmen C.C. Saskatchewan from 12:00-4:00 PM on Main Street. Free Entry. Door Prizes. Open to special interest vehicles. Contact Darrell Fitterer 306-679-7147.
• Kinsmen and Kinette Club of Kindersley 5th Annual Duck Derby 2:00 PM on the corner of Main Street and 2nd Avenue East. Get your tickets NOW at https://www.rafflebox. ca/raffle/kkck or any Kin member or Darren at Willowgrove Pharmacy for tickets. $10 each. Only 1200 sold.
• Kindersley Klippers Home Opener & Dance!
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
• Kindersley Screen Arts presents our 10-Year Anniversary Screening - The Life of Chuck 4:00 PM at Sunset Theatre. $10 cash at the door. Wine & beer available for purchase. Attend for a chance to WIN a season pass. Sponsored by Speedy Auto Glass.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
• Kindersley Antique Threshing Demo 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM at the Kindersley Plains Museum (903 - 11th Avenue East). Food booth on site. Threshing machine powered by 1903 Case steamer. Free will offering. If inclement weather contact Lionet at 306-463-8352.
• Kindersley Ducks Unlimited Banquet
- 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 meets Monday & Wednesday evenings 7:009:00 PM at the outdoor courts (in the Curling Rink if inclement weather). Cost is $50 for the season or $5 drop in. Our club is a part of Pathway To Wellness. 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.
PUT
Call Karen 463-3607 for more info.
- 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!
• Every Saturday: Mom N Tots Morning 10:00 - 10:30 AM at the Norman Ritchie Community Centre. Registration required: Kindersleymusic@outlook.com
• Every Tuesday: Community Badminton 6:30 - 9:00 PM at Westberry School. Everybody welcome.
LUSELAND
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
• Luseland Harvest Festival 2:00 to 8:00 PM. To book a table or offer support in any way call Jean (306) 372-7367 or Bobbi (306) 430-7515
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
• No Book - Book Club at the Luseland Library 5:00 PM. Join us for stories, ideas and coffee!
- 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.
- The Luseland Library Art Gallery has a new exhibit on display featuring local authors.
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
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1
• 4H AGM 7:00 PM Church Basement SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26
• Hands at Work Fall Supper 5:00-6:30 PM
- 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
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2
• Plenty Wildcats Football vs Kerrobert Rebels 4:30 PM
