— Dr. J. Dan Ledding of Rosetown is retiring Friday after a 55-year medical career in which the 79-year-old physician has seen the good, the bad and the sometimes goofy.
Overall, Ledding said he has found great satisfaction as a family doctor, working with patients at both ends of life.
“You always look to cure people, but sometimes that’s not possible. Sometimes the disease is not curable. You try to comfort them and help them cope better. That’s the key thing,” he said.
“You try to focus on making the time they have left as good as it can be,” Ledding added. That includes practical measures, such as lifts and comfort care for the patient.
The focus, he said, is “not so much on dying but preparing for eternity, while also treating the patient and their family and helping them cope through it all.”
That means working as part of a team that addresses “all aspects of medicine,” including the psychological, social and spiritual, he said.
Ledding has also enjoyed working at the start of life, in obstetrics and delivering babies, and supporting life from conception to natural death, such as his participation in the 1983 Run for Life.
He praised the nursing staff he has worked with over the years.
Originally from Biggar, Ledding graduated in medicine from the University of Saskatchewan in 1970 and interned at St. Boniface Hospital in Win-
nipeg, as did his older brother Dave. He followed that with a year in internal medicine in Saskatoon, work in anaesthesia, and then practice in Biggar.
Ledding came to Rosetown on March 1, 1974, to replace Dr. Grant Gibbings and join brother Dave, Dr. Hank Biem and Dr. Alf Ernst in general practice.
“Many things have changed since then,” he said.
At one point, when Dr. Dave was sick, Ledding and Ernst were very, very busy. The Ledding brothers began recruiting South African doctors to help meet the need.
Until recently, local doctors could perform gallbladder surgery, tonsillectomies and hernia repairs, Ledding said.
Thanks to the Alex Ositis Foundation, itinerant doctors can use equipment here purchased by the foundation, including endoscopes and arthroscopes. Ledding said bringing specialists to Rosetown for medical programs – initiated by his brother Dave – has been another source of satisfaction for him, as he has administered anaesthesia for many of these programs.
“It shortens city hospital waiting lists and is especially important for older local people who can’t travel,” he said.
However, the paperwork doctors must complete has become “fairly consuming,” taking more time than seeing patients, Ledding said. “It just got worse over the years,” often keeping him at work until midnight.
Accessing consultants has also become “more and more difficult,” with waits of up to a year to see an ear, nose
and throat specialist, he said.
With no obstetrics practice between the Alberta border and Saskatoon, some patients end up delivering in Rosetown because they cannot get to the city on time, Ledding added.
Asked how he has made it through 55 years of medical practice, including two bouts with COVID-19, Ledding credited his family.
“I would never survive without having a wonderful wife and family,” he said, referring to his children Andrea, Matthew, Kevin and Tim. He said Rosetown “was a good place to raise our
four children.”
Ledding also highlighted his upbringing. His father, Marvin, a son of Swedish and Norwegian immigrants, valued education and was the campaign manager for Woodrow Lloyd during the launch of Medicare. His mother, Nora, of Irish heritage, “kept the home fires burning,” he said. Ledding also commended the teachers at St. Gabriel’s School.
Reflecting on his long career, Ledding said simply: “You certainly can’t do it by yourself. You need Jesus on your side.”
Dr. J. Dan Ledding. PHOTO BY DAVID MCIVER
Program helps Rosetown seniors access health and support services
New proactive program offers direct navigation, referrals and in-home assessments — no doctor’s referral required
BY IAN MACKAY
Help is available for older people in the Rosetown area who are unsure how to access health and other services without a doctor’s referral.
Taylor McGregor moved from nursing at the local hospital into the new, permanent role of leading the area’s Proactive Pathways for Older Adults program. The provincial government designated money for supportive care, resulting in her new position, McGregor told those attending the Rosetown Age Friendly safety event on Wednesday at the seniors centre.
active about their health” is eligible to join the program and may call her to set up an appointment. Physicians may also refer people.
By carefully listening to challenges her clients face, “that’s where we get the most done,” she said.
Besides herself, a social worker in the program can help people “a lot with financial supports” and by filling out necessary forms to improve living conditions or ensure adequate food, she said.
Sometimes, she simply listens and helps people “work through things on their own,” she said. “I’m not there to tell you what I think you should do. I’m there to support you in your decisions in what you want to do with your health.”
After the initial assessment, she makes any referrals she believes will help, then calls clients a few weeks later to make sure the appropriate experts have contacted them.
“If they haven’t, I kick it up into high gear and figure out what needs to be done,” she said.
Her job involves helping older adults “navigate the health-care system (and) be a support for them,” she said. McGregor helps connect them with services, either through an existing health program or by, for example, “finding a list of people who are removing snow,” she said.
She stays in contact with 140 people since accepting her first client last February, while “filling in some of the gaps,” she said. Anyone who wants to “be pro-
The program also has two continuing-care aides, including one who starts and conducts exercise programs in the region. Raelyn DeBusschere of Rose Villa also assists.
“We cover a large area,” McGregor said. “We’re on the road all the time, but wherever somebody needs our help, we go.”
She initially assesses people’s daily lives and determines what help they could use — such as meeting with a diabetic nurse educator or discussing medications with a pharmacist “because you’ve got some questions.”
“You’re never discharged from the program — you’re kind of stuck with me,” McGregor said. “I can be there if you have questions.”
As one example, she arranged assistance for a woman about to undergo surgery who had been her husband’s caregiver.
“We got home care on board, involved the paramedicine program conducted by emergency medical technicians and located equipment she could use after her surgery,” she said.
People might not realize that they do not need a referral to have an occupational or exercise therapist come to their homes and, in the latter case, show them exercises they can do, McGregor said.
Rosetown councillor resigns; by-election set for March
resignation taking effect Oct. 17.
Rosetown councillor Jadwiga Dolega-Cieszkowski has resigned from town council. Her letter was submitted ahead of the Oct. 20 council meeting, with the
Council has scheduled a by-election for March 18 to fill the vacancy. Under provincial rules, the vote must be held within six months of a resignation. The timing came too late to align with the Dec.
Written offers will be received by Skelton Turner Mescall, 314 Main Street, P.O. Box 1120, Rosetown, SK S0L 2V0 up to 4:00 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2025
Vendor requires this transaction to be completed on or before December 19, 2025 Phone: (306) 882-4244 Fax: (306) 882-3969
- 5% deposit to be paid immediately upon notification of acceptance of offer.
- Highest or any offer not necessarily accepted.
- Bidders must rely on their own research and inspection of the land.
- GST to be paid in addition to purchase price, if applicable.
- Cropping, fertilizer, chemical, soil test info available – Phone (306) 882-4244 during regular business hours.
- 5 steel bins located on NW-19-30-15-W3 are not included in the sale AND ACCESS for their removal will be required.
- Owner not responsible for any errors or omissions in this advertisement.
Written offers will be received by Skelton Turner Mescall, 314 Main Street, P.O. Box 1120, Rosetown, SK, S0L 2V0 up to 3:00 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2025
Vendor requires this transaction to be completed on or before December 19, 2025. Phone: 306-882-4244 Fax: 306-882-3969.
- 5% deposit to be paid immediately upon notification of acceptance of offer.
- Highest or any offer not necessarily accepted.
- Bidders must rely on their own research and inspection of the land.
- GST to be paid in addition to purchase price, if applicable.
- Cropping, fertilizer, chemical, soil test information available –Phone 306-882-4244 during regular business hours.
- No bins included.
- Owner not responsible for any errors or omissions in this advertisement.
3 by-election to replace former councillor Joe Spratt. Council briefly considered a Feb. 14 vote but chose March instead.
“We don’t want to do it right away and super-close to Christmas because we have one already,” councillor Kimiko Otterspoor said.
Mayor Trevor Hay read a message from Dolega-Cieszkowski in which she wrote: “It has been an honour to represent Rosetown’s residents for the last five years.”
Hay said the resignation was unexpected and praised her contributions.
“She did some great work with us,”
he said, noting her leadership of the Orange Memories Management Board, which helped stabilize its budgets and operations, and her efforts during the pandemic.
“That was a difficult time for us on council to go through COVID and the expenses it brought,” Hay said. “We actually came through that fairly well. We weren’t like a lot of other communities that had high increases in taxes because of COVID costs.”
Dolega-Cieszkowski was elected in November 2020 and also chaired the Public Works Committee.
Town offers land package to developer
en lots in the Civic Centre subdivision and three others elsewhere in town.
Town council recently offered to sell all its available lots.
“We had a request from them (GMAG Holdings Ltd.) asking what the price would be if they bought a package,” Darcy Olson, the town’s chief administrator, said after the Oct. 20 council meeting.
“We discussed it in camera” after the Oct. 6 meeting before sending the company a price — almost $300,000 for sev-
The lots in the Civic Centre subdivision are listed at either $40,000 or $45,000; the three others, including one double lot, are priced at $1 each.
The company had not yet responded, Olson said. The offer stipulates that the company would build single- and multi-family homes within five years. The company would not be eligible for the town’s tax incentives.
FARMLAND FOR SALE R.M. ST. ANDREWS #287
SE – 29 – 28 – 13 – W3 Ext 0, Parcel #117981636 (approx. 159 seeded acres of 160.34 total acres in 2025)
Written offers will be received by Skelton Turner Mescall by either of the following methods:
1. Mail or drop off: 314 Main Street, P.O. Box 1120, Rosetown, SK S0L 2V0; or
2. Email: info@stmlaw.ca
The Tender Closes Friday, November 14th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.
Tender Information:
- 5% deposit to be paid immediately upon notification of acceptance of offer.
- Highest or any offer not necessarily accepted.
- Bidders must rely on their own research and inspection of the land.
- GST to be paid in addition to purchase price, if applicable.
- No bins included.
- Owner not responsible for any errors or omissions in this advertisement.
- Cropping, fertilizer, chemical information available – Phone Skelton Turner Mescall at (306) 882-4244 during regular business hours to request this information or for any other inquiries.
Taylor MCgregor PHOTO BY IAN MACKAY
EAGLE STAFF
EAGLE STAFF
Just a gal from Glidden
Hot flashes, home runs and Halloween hijinks
BY KATE WINQUIST
Well, as it turns out, my optimism really did pay off — the Blue Jays are still going strong. Suddenly, even people who normally think baseball is boring are joining the bandwagon, including my sister Carrie. Boring? Really? George Springer’s three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh against Seattle on Monday night had the whole country buzzing. It felt like one of those classic Canadian moments you’ll be talking about for years — Joe Carter’s 1993 World Series homer, anyone?
Springer had been hit in the knee the night before, so there was some doubt he’d even play. My sister shared a post on the Blue Jays Facebook page: “Congrats guys! Now take it the rest of the way! My mom was a huge fan and she passed last December at 88. She’s smiling down on you, and the fact that George hit the winning home run was an extra bonus for her …George was my dad’s name.” And then Vladimir Guerrero Jr. LIKED HER COMMENT. I repeat: Vlad Jr. liked HER comment, not mine — the one actually writing about baseball. Where is the justice?
I refuse to predict anything about the World Series. The Jays are up against the billionaire Dodgers, so let’s just say: stay tuned to see if the fat lady starts warming up her vocal chords. Because she has not
QUOTABLE
sung quite yet — and this fat lady isn’t even humming.
October has been gentle on us so far — Old Man Winter has mostly stayed away. One brief snowfall was the extent of it, giving us time to put away the patio furniture, rake leaves, and start thinking about Halloween goodies for the little ghosts and goblins. My husband especially enjoys handing out the treats, and I must admit, I don’t mind the excuse to make sure the candy is “good.” We had a full case of Coffee Crisps left over last year, and yes, I did wonder why I can’t seem to lose weight. Some mysteries may never be solved.
I do hope the weather holds, though. It’s such a shame when cute costumes are hidden under parkas and snowsuits.
Evenings are cooling, but I’ve become a one-woman climate crisis. Menopause has been showing its ugly face, and the nights are full of hot flashes and
“A caring heart that listens is often more valued than an intelligent mind that talks.” Michael Josephson
MEDITATION
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying ‘Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’ ” — Matthew 18: 1-4
We
Letters may be subject to editing for length, clarity, grammar and legality. Your Southwest Media Group reserves the right to decline to publish letters. Letters are the opinions of their writers only and do not reflect the opinions of Your Southwest Media Group Correspondence can be sent by email to: rosetowneagle@gmail.com
night sweats with me apologizing to my husband for creating a sauna in the bedroom. He has been curling up under layers, only his head peeking out from the blanket — I think he’s convinced he’s sleeping in a morgue. I used to think night sweats were overblown. I was a fool.
The past few weeks have been busy. We’ve finally found a small office space in the Mini-Mall for our Rosetown Eagle staff, giving David and Ian a place to write and me a spot to handle ad sales. It’s also perfect for storing our archives, which will one day belong in the museum, I’m sure. I’m looking forward to digging through back issues, especially with Remembrance Day coming up.
And with all this busyness, we’ve been laughing at the old sayings we’ve dusted off: busier than a one-legged man in a butt-kicking contest, busier than a three-legged cat burying a turd on cement, busier than a one-armed wallpaper hanger… and a few others best left unprinted.
Despite it all, I will find the time to relax and watch some ballgames and perhaps help pick out the Halloween candy, all while trying to stay cool through it all.
That’s it for another week of musings from the gal from Glidden. Week’s not over yet — and just a reminder, don’t cue the fat lady. She hasn’t even cleared her throat.
Comment
Denmark inspects ships in Baltic strait amid fears of Russian shadow fleet
In the 16th and 17th centuries, two-thirds of the Danish kingdom’s income came from taxes on ships passing through the Øresund strait, the only exit from the Baltic Sea.
Ships had to declare the value of their cargo. If Danish authorities suspected the value was understated, they could buy the entire cargo at the declared price.
International Opinion
By Gwynne Dyer
Denmark no longer enforces that rule, but officials still take maritime violations seriously. The country’s airports were forced to shut down several times late last month after unidentified drones were spotted, prompting Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to say Russian involvement could not be ruled out.
The warnings were timely: Russian drones also violated Polish and Romanian airspace that week. Frederiksen’s government suspected the drones harassing Denmark were operating from a Russian-chartered ship off the Danish coast.
Last week, Royal Danish Navy vessels began stopping and inspecting ships in the Øresund strait. The focus is on older oil tankers flying “flags of conve-
Most exports used to go to Europe until the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Western sanctions forced Russia to cut prices and find new buyers in Asia.
nience” from low-regulation countries. These ships are part of the so-called “shadow fleet” that transports sanctioned Russian oil to Asia, including India and China.
Fossil fuel sales provide 30 to 50 per cent of Russia’s government revenue, and two-thirds of its oil and gas is exported. Most exports used to go to Europe until the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Western sanctions forced Russia to cut prices and find new buyers in Asia.
Russia has few pipelines to Asia, and most oil now travels by sea—about 14,000 nautical miles from Kaliningrad in the Baltic to Qingdao, China. Sanctions also make it difficult to charter ships or obtain insurance legally. Russia has responded with a “shadow fleet” of roughly 1,000 older tankers, many near the end of their service lives.
The approach is expensive and risky, but until re-
1993 Notice is given that:
1. The Council of the Town of Rosetown proposes to pass a bylaw to undertake the following as a local improvement:
cently, Russian oil exports remained relatively steady. Lower prices reduced revenue, but Russia still funded its war effort and maintained domestic stability.
Denmark’s inspections target safety and environmental concerns. “These old ships pose a particular risk to our marine environment. That’s why we are tightening controls with very basic environmental rules,” Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke said. In practice, the rules allow inspectors to examine documents, note safety or insurance violations, and delay or detain ships.
Denmark has limited resources, so not every ship in the shadow fleet is stopped. However, the number of inspections is expected to rise. New U.S. sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies may also affect operations.
Meanwhile, Russia’s main oil terminals are increasingly vulnerable. Ukraine’s new Flamingo missiles can reach the Primorsk, Ust-Luga, and Novorossiysk terminals. The weapons are less precise than U.S. Tomahawks but carry larger warheads and can be produced in high volumes, potentially overwhelming Russian air defences.
Ukrainian strikes on pipelines and refineries have already caused fuel shortages in Russia. The new tactics could further disrupt the Russian economy. While no single weapon can decide a war of attrition, the strategic balance appears to be shifting in Ukraine’s favour.
TOWN
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs outstanding on the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 30th day of November, 2025, an interest based
against the land.
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4 (3)
Enforcement
is included in the amount shown
and proposes to specially assess a part of the cost against the lands benefitted by this local
2. The estimated cost, and rate of special assessment chargeable for, the proposed local improvements are:
Cost and Rate of Local Improvements
The special assessment levied for the proposed local improvements may be based on the actual cost. The special assessment, if not prepaid, shall be payable in ten equal installments.
3. Owners of land to be specially assessed may petition against the proposed local improvement. The petition must be submitted to the CAO of the municipality not later than 5:00 p.m., on the 27th day of November 2025. To be successful, the petition must be signed by a majority in number of owners of lands to be specially assessed for the proposed local improvement, representing at least one-half of the assessed value in the most recent assessment roll of these lands. Advice on preparing the petition to ensure its validity is available from the municipal Administrator.
4. The council proposes to meet to consider a bylaw respecting this matter on the 1st day of December, 2025, at 7:00 o’clock p.m. at 417 Main Street, Rosetown, Saskatchewan. Dated at Rosetown, Saskatchewan, this 21st day of October, 2025. Darcy Olson, Chief Administration officer
Dated this 27th day of October, 2025.
Sports
New stats flood world of baseball
Baseball statistics are getting ridiculous. Every day, it seems, some analytical expert delivers a new statistical category that, ultimately, will probably result in fans learning that a batter produces more hits when his heart is in mid-beat.
Way back when, all a baseball fan knew of his favourite players were batting average, runs-batted-in, base hits, runs scored, and walks. If a statistician wanted to get cute, he or she might even break down the regular walks from those issued intentionally.
Today? It’s out of control. A few new baseball-stat categories started showing up 10 or 15 years ago, such as WAR (wins above replacement, a category that determines a player’s value to a team were he playing instead of a replacement player). Offensively, the stat used most often to determine a player’s value is OPS, which is adding up the player’s on-base percentage plus his slugging average. Anyone over 1.000 is an all-star.
Here’s a quiz: What is BABIP? It calculates a hitter’s batting average only on balls in play. In other words, a strike-
out or a home run aren’t counted. Only those balls that stay in the field of play. There’s a fairly new stat showing up as ISO, which is described as ‘isolated power’ — measuring a hitter’s rate of extra-base hits per at-bat. Also measured these days are categories for exit velocity, launch angle, hard hit, and barrels.
Barrels? This is where stats start to get really haywire. If a batter hits a ball with an exit velocity of a minimum 98 miles per hour and a launch angle between 26 and 30 degrees, it is deemed that the ball must have hit the ‘barrel’ of the bat. Google says an elite hitter manages to ‘barrel’ a thrown pitch at least 15 per cent of the time. Advanced computer software and radar equipment figures all of this out. When the Blue Jays beat Seattle 13-4 in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series, post-game reports said the Jays socked 11 hits at 100 mph or more. Significant? Must have been, because it reportedly broke the record of 10 by the 2018 Red Sox and 2020 Dodgers. Every possible detail of a baseball
game is stored in some computer and easily retrievable. Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., reported Sports Illustrated, was responsible for four of those 11 smashes. Only one other player has ever crushed four hits so hard in a post-season game and that happened this year (Detroit Tigers’ Kerry Carpenter in Game 5 of the ALDS).
Wrote SI’s Tom Verducci: “The tally of Guerrero’s night of whistling baseballs throughout T-Mobile Park read like someone fiddling with the FM radio dial looking for a decent tune: 102.8 (single), 104.9 (double), 106.4 (home run), 108.0 (double).”
How did it happen? Guerrero apparently has the flattest swing in baseball (1 degree). He adjusted his elevation by a couple of degrees and … boom!, a fourhit night and a 13-4 win.
Are all these stats important? Not really. Just the one that says 13-4.
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: “How dumb are the Raptors and new president Bobby Webster? They charge good money for a pre-season home game against the Boston Celtics and don’t dress any of their starters. You do that kind of thing on the road in exhibition games. You don’t
treat or cheat your paying customers like that.”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen: “J.T, Miller was named captain of the New York Rangers and congratulations poured in from around the league. Elias Pettersson sent him some dead flowers.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Danica Patrick thinks Bad Bunny shouldn’t perform at the Super Bowl if he’s not gonna sing in English, a rule which would ban every note of country music ever performed at NASCAR events since its creation.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Great camera shot of Bengals’ QB Joe Flacco staring with mouth agape disbelief after Ja’Marr Chase dropped a perfect pass. I haven’t seen that look since my wife caught me vacuuming our living room.”
• Cathal Kelly of the Globe and Mail, on the difference between the Blue Jays recent opponents, the Yankees and Mariners: “Playing the Yankees gets you ready to go to war. The Mariners make you feel like lying down and just getting a few quick winks.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
School Supplies (Reg. Price - $2.99 to $8.99)
Items include: Glue, Binders, Note Books, Pencil Cases, Crayons, Erasers, Scissors, Dividers, Markers, Sidewalk Chalk and More including X-ACTO Pencil Sharpeners (Reg. Price $29.99)
Clear Plastic Table Covers (Reg. Price $24.00)
Index Label Cards and Containers (Reg. Price $2.99 to $10.00) Variety of Sizes
Calculators (Reg. Price $8.00 to $170.00)
Sports By Bruce Penton
A shoebox can change a child’s world
National collection week: Nov. 17-23
CALGARY — For a child in West Africa, Ukraine, or the Philippines, a simple shoebox filled with toys, school supplies, and a personal note can mean the world. This holiday season, Canadians are once again packing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, bringing joy to children living amid poverty, war, or disaster.
The annual program, run by international Christian relief group Samaritan’s Purse, delivered more than 436,000 gifts last year. Each $12 box covers shipping and program costs, helping children know they are loved and remembered.
“Every shoebox shows a child that they matter,” said Kendra Shields, director of Operation Christmas Child. “This simple gift can bring hope, joy, and a sense of being valued.”
National Shoebox Collection Week runs Nov. 17-23. Boxes can be dropped off at hundreds of locations across Canada or packed online at PackABox.ca.
Online packers can also track where their gift ends up.
About Samaritan’s Purse - Samaritan’s Purse is a Christian relief organi-
zation inspired by the biblical story of the Good Samaritan. It aids people affected by war, disease, disaster, poverty, famine, and persecution, and provides
Redwings open season Friday against Unity Miners
The senior Rosetown Redwings start the 202526 Cross Roads Hockey League season on Friday, playing the expansion Miners in Unity.
The Redwings entered that contest with one win, having defeated the Outlook Icehawks 4-1 in an exhibition game at home on Oct. 19. They led 1-0 after the first period and 3-0 after the second.
Walker Doetzel and Kane Dubé each scored twice against the Icehawks, while Jordan Johnston recorded two assists. Goalie Noah Martens made 59 saves as his teammates fired 35 shots on Icehawk netminder Jace Hunter. Steven Lee scored the Icehawks’ lone goal about 11 minutes into the third period.
scooped it up. Despite that, the Redwings won the exhibition 4-1 on Oct. 19.
The Redwings were scheduled to host another exhibition game Friday against the Radisson Wheatkings, but the Wheatkings “have Blue Jays fever,” said
Redwing manager Bob Clothier. With NHL and NBA games to choose from, “our game isn’t very important,” Clothier said modestly.
Rosetown opens the regular season at home Nov. 15 against the Kindersley Kodiaks.
programs including safe water projects, vocational training, and Operation Christmas Child. More information is at SamaritansPurse.ca.
and
Dinsmore Wildcats win junior boys south sectional volleyball
EAGLE STAFF
The Dinsmore Composite junior boys volleyball team won the south sectional playoffs held in Dinsmore on Oct. 18.
As a result, the Wildcats advanced to district playoffs in Eston last Saturday, where they faced the host team, Outlook, and St. Gabriel’s.
The Wildcats finished first in the round-robin stage and defeated second-place Elrose Eagles in the final. Scores were not available.
Dinsmore had previously beaten Beechy 25-9, 25-7; Elrose 25-17, 25-18; and Lucky Lake 25-16, 25-14.
Kiersten de Coninck Smith sets the volleyball in front of Kya Kennedy (L) and Hanna Brown Campbell, teammates on the Rosetown Central High senior B team during its four-team tournament here on Oct. 18. The Royals defeated their opponents here, the Kindersley Kobras B team, 25-17, 25-14
finished third. PHOTO BY DAVID MCIVER
EAGLE STAFF
Corben Hogan of the Redwings had gotten the puck away from Cole Young of the Icehawks behind the Icehawk goal. Another Icehawk, Kobe Kindrachuk,
PHOTO BY DAVID MCIVER
A volleyball team from Dinsmore Composite School hosted and won junior boys south sectional playoffs on Oct. 18 before advancing to district playoffs in Eston last Saturday. Front, left: Alex Keeler; middle: Meyer Sawyer, Layne Keeler, Kratos Gervais, Kian James, Mason Poirier; back: coach Kristin Ward, Wyatt Tully, Andrew Gauthier, Lucas Bencharski, Rowen James, Ethan Poirier, and manager Dawn Thompson. Missing: coach Chelsea Billett.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA BILLETT
Special Pull-Out Section of The Rosetown Eagle
How does snow benefit agriculture?
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Although frigid temperatures can severely damage certain crops like grapes and blueberries, snow provides several benefits and is often welcomed by agricultural producers. Here’s why.
Effective insulator
Snow acts as a natural insulator during extreme cold. Even a thin layer of snow helps retain warmth in the soil and protects plant roots from damaging frost. Without this protective barrier, many crops can suffer irreversible damage during the winter months.
Protective mat
Snow also protects fields from drying winds and erosion. It helps maintain soil structure and keeps microorganisms beneath the surface active longer.
Indispensable source of water
When the snow gradually melts in spring, it provides essential moisture
for early crops. This is particularly important for plants like asparagus that require well-hydrated soil when emerging from the ground.
However, climate change has made snowfall highly unpredictable. Some winters, unfortunately, fields are left bare and exposed to the cold. This has forced farmers to adapt their practices and explore innovative solutions. Many producers are now implementing these measures to ensure a successful harvest:
• Focusing on crop varieties that resist temperature fluctuations
• Installing protective covers over their plants
• Planting windbreaks near crops to help trap snow
No matter the season, take a moment to applaud the resilience and determination of your local agricultural producers.
An impressive stand of canola surrounds three steel granaries in a field southeast of town in early August. PHOTO BY IAN MACKAY
Area farm hosts barley reveal
People gathered at a farm south of town in July to see how Lawrence Farms grows barley.
There, officials with Labatt Breweries also revealed a new scholarship. The company will provide $10,000 each year to the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission, also known as SaskBarley, that will allow the organization to increase by two the number of graduate scholarships it offers annually.
The organization provides $6,000 awards for PhD-level research projects and $4,000 for master’s-level projects.
“Whether it’s boosting disease resistance or improving sustainability, these students are contributing to real-world solutions for farmers and the entire barley value chain,” Cody Glenn of Climax, who chairs SaskBarley, said in its statement.
“Great beer starts with great barley and great barley starts with great farmers,” added Labatt’s Ivana Yelich said in the statement.
“Barley is a critical ingredient in the brew-
ing process and Saskatchewan consistently delivers some of the highest-quality supply in the world,” the statement said.
Labatt gets 85 per cent of the barley it uses for its Canadian products from Saskatchewan growers and purchases barley worth about $30 million each year, the statement said.
Besides learning more about barley, those attending dined on “barley-inspired dishes and beer pairings, celebrating the versatility and richness of the prairie-grown grain,” a document said.
People may start applying for the scholarships each June. The 2025 deadline was Oct. 15.
Applicants must outline how their “research will help ensure barley is a long-term, profitable and internationally competitive crop choice for Saskatchewan producers; increase the production and value of barley for both the producer and consumer; and/or support either the food, feed, malt or industrial uses of barley,” the SaskBarley website says.
Coalition expects improved wheats
EAGLE STAFF
Officials anticipate plant breeders will develop stronger wheat varieties, spurred by a contribution of almost $20 million.
The Canadian Wheat Research Coalition promised $19.9 million over three years as part of its core breeding agreement with the federal Agriculture Department to create “field-ready wheat varieties,” a coalition statement said in June. Coalition members anticipate varieties that better withstand heat and stress and resist diseases and pests.
The agreement ensures that “Canadian wheat farmers continue to have access to top-quality varieties that perform in the real world,” said Dean Hubbard of Claresholm, Alta., who chairs the coalition. The Saskatchewan
Wheat Development Commission and Manitoba Crop Alliance are its other members. By supporting the federal program, “We are helping tackle some of the biggest challenges on the farm, like disease, pests and tough weather, while keeping our focus on the quality standards our customers count on,” said Hubbard, a regional director with Alberta Grains. Federal scientists intend to create “varieties with strong resistance to diseases such as fusarium head blight, rusts and leaf spotting diseases, as well as insect pests such as orange wheat blossom midge and wheat stem sawfly,” the statement said. They will “also prioritize new varieties that can withstand adverse environmental conditions such as heat and drought stress,” it added.
To the bin. Darren Martens unloads some of the last of his red lentils from a field northeast of Fiske on Aug. 23. Moments earlier, son Markus hauled away a load in
EAGLE STAFF
Indoor ag getting a look
EAGLE STAFF
Researchers will explore the possibilities of turning existing buildings into “plant growth facilities” and try to determine ideal nitrogen rates for new oat varieties, among six “strategic field program” projects starting this year.
The projects won approval at the end of January and the federal and provincial governments later publicized them and 32 other projects approved last year under the Agriculture Demonstration of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) program. Altogether, researchers are receiving over $1.4 million through the governments’ agriculture program.
“Research is at the root of how we grow the sector and strengthen Canada’s position as a world leader when it comes to agriculture,” said Heath Mac-
Donald (Lib-Malpeque, P.E.I.), the federal agriculture minister. “These projects will help get best practices directly into the hands of farmers and processors in Saskatchewan and keep them on the cutting edge.”
“By investing in demonstration and knowledge-transfer projects, we are ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of Canada’s agricultural sector,” added Daryl Harrison, his Saskatchewan counterpart.
One program helps producer groups and First Nations communities evaluate and demonstrate new agricultural practices and technologies locally, especially practical, short-term research projects that farmers can use soon. Several of them will be on display this summer.
Shawn Clark, with the National Research Council of Canada in Saskatoon,
How can producers recycle their waste?
Producers face significant challenges in managing residual materials and waste. Fortunately, an increasing number of government and regional initiatives are making the task easier. Here’s a look at how producers can effectively recycle their agricultural waste.
Establishing a clear legal framework
In recent years, many governments have launched programs that require companies to take back the waste from specific products, such as feed bags and pesticide containers. Farmers can use collection points to safely dispose of these materials, or they may be able to request a convenient pick-up service. These strategies effectively reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Constantly innovating
The old adage is a fact: one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. This rings especially true in agriculture. When producers intelligently manage their waste, they can supply raw materials to companies that recycle these materials. For instance, manufacturers can transform plastic pesticide containers into agricultural drains. Additionally, used sugar bush tubing can be converted into vehicle mats.
Farmers can now maximize their recycling efforts with the help of government and regional incentives. By choosing local products, you’re doing your part to support these innovative entrepreneurs in your community.
is to evaluate the feasibility of retrofitting buildings into year-round greenhouses and comparing “their effectiveness with other types of controlled-environment agriculture systems, including modular farms and modified shipping container-based growth facilities,” a document says.
Brianne McInnes, who directs the Northeast Agriculture Research Foundation at Melfort, heads work to
“demonstrate suitable nitrogen rates for new oat varieties with higher yield potential in different soil and climatic zones within the province,” the document said.
Other projects include seeing if grasshoppers would rather not dine on “five common annual forages in southern Saskatchewan” and see if certain nematodes prey on root maggots in vegetables.
Officials push pulses in Europe
Europeans could soon be eating more Canadian pulses, officials here believe.
They’re working to expand pulse exports, especially lentils, to the European Union and United Kingdom while trying to overcome “regulatory and policy barriers that continue to impede market access,” said an item on the Pulse Canada website in late June.
The European Commission this year issued a new vision for agriculture, stressing improving the “competitiveness and resilience of EU agriculture,” the item says. “The vision marks a shift from the 2020 Farm to Fork strategy and its prescriptive targets” but “maintains barriers” against using “crop-protection products and has (the) potential to introduce additional trade-related risks, including the use of reciprocal measures,” it says.
“While these developments add complexity, they also open the door to opportunity,” the article continues. “The proposal to develop an EU protein strategy could present opportunities for Canadian pulses to play a greater role in Europe’s food system.”
Studies indicate “strong consumer interest in lentils across the region,” it says. A study commissioned by Pulse Canada in 2024 “found that 30 per cent of consumers in the UK and Germany eat lentils weekly and over half view them as healthy and nutritious,” it says. “Lentils are showing up in an expanding range of products - snacks, baked goods, plant-based burgers and more.”
According to the London-based market research firm Mintel, 65 per cent of lentil product launches around the world happened in Europe, especially in the UK, France and Germany.
Pulse Canada officials campaigned on behalf of Canadian pulses in Europe during the spring, aiming to improve commercial interest, understand the implications of the new policy and advocate for “trade-facilitative approaches” against measures that prevent export growth, the item says. They met with representatives of governments, food companies, trade personnel, parliamentarians and officials with the European Commission’s health, trade
and agriculture departments.
At Brussels in April, leaders with Pulse Canada, Cereals Canada and the Canola Council of Canada raised concerns about reciprocal trade measures and distributed information about Canada’s contributions to Europe’s food and nutrition security, the item says.
“The mission included a high-level luncheon” where a member of the Canada’s embassy to the EU spoke and highlighted the importance of the Canadian-European trade relationship and opportunities to strengthen it, the article says.
In meetings with officials from European food companies and retailers, Canadian leaders outlined “the value of Canadian lentils and lentil ingredients across a broad range of food product categories, in particular for ready-toeat and snack and meat applications,” it says.
They also reviewed “recent life-cycle assessment data showing that Canadian lentils maintain a low carbon footprint even after accounting for transportation to Europe, This data is a critical component for illustrating the advanced growing practices in Canada.”
The team also presented that data during the Bridge2Food conference on June 9-11 in Copenhagen.
A presentation there by Denis Trémorin, Pulse Canada’s sustainability director, focused on regenerative agriculture, emphasizing how Canadian farmers use no-till and diversified crop rotations. Other speakers during that particular session covered legume concentrates and legume bio-refineries.
Pulse Canada personnel also took part in a tour, organized by federal Agriculture Department staff, “for key EU government and industry stakeholders.” The tour involved meetings with department researchers, a visit to an Alberta farm and a sustainable agriculture conference in Ottawa.
They visited a pulse and grain farm with Kevin Auch of Carmangay, Alta., who previously chaired Pulse Canada, and saw irrigated and dryland farming, “learned about prairie crop rotations and saw first-hand the role of no-till practices and precision nutrient management for soil health and emissions reduction,” the article says.
City firm helping create better pulse-based burgers
EAGLE STAFF
Business leaders in Saskatoon, Calgary and England hope to develop a tastier, more nutritious plant-based patty.
More and more consumers “want products that are delicious and nutritious with an appealing texture, regardless of whether they’re made from meat or plants,” a Protein Industries Canada statement said.
Leaders of Protein Industries and Innovate UK want more collaboration among food companies in the two nations.
People with Lovingly Made Flour Mills of Saskatoon, Botaneco in Calgary, Stars UK R&D of London and the University of Leeds hope “to solve moisture and juiciness challenges” us-
ing Canadian-grown and -processed pulses and sunflowers, the statement said. Another goal is to match “the taste, texture and aroma of beef along with matching price parity within a decade,” the statement said.
“Canada has an unparalleled opportunity to supply the world with ingredients that are not only functional and nutritious, but also sustainable,” said Robert Hunter of Toronto, who directs Regina-based Protein Industries Canada.
Botaneco and Lovingly Made have already participated in Protein Industries endeavours and intend to “optimize existing processing techniques to create new textured protein ingredients incorporating novel plantbased fats,” the statement said.
Group wanted strychnine back
EAGLE STAFF
A Saskatchewan farm group called for the federal government to temporarily reverse a decision to ban using strychnine against gophers.
The Agricultural Producers of Saskatchewan urged the agriculture and health ministers “to urgently consider the reinstatement of strychnine” under emergency-use provisions of the Pest Control Products Regulations, a Producers statement said.
“This request is driven by the significant and uncontrolled increase in Richardson’s ground squirrel populations, which is inflicting economic damages
estimated to average nearly $9 million annually,” the statement explained.
The association wanted the government to immediately approve using strychnine on a temporary basis and suggested that officials “encourage collaboration for innovative, effective and environmentally safe pest-control alternatives,” it said.
Organization leaders understand why the government ended the use of strychnine but, “the current methods available for ground-squirrel management are largely ineffective, impractical or too costly,” the statement said.
Spotlight on biodynamic agriculture
Biodynamic agriculture, an offshoot of organic farming, is gaining popularity among North American farmers who want to set themselves apart from industrial producers. This approach, seen by many as esoteric, primarily aims to incorporate respect for the earth and all living things into farming systems.
Agricultural organization
The core principle of biodynamics is the consideration of farmland as a complete living system. It views everything as connected: soil, plants, animals and humans. Farmers strive to nurture biodiversity as much as possible through techniques like crop rotation, livestock integration and flower strip planting in support of pollinators.
Natural solutions
Biodynamics, like organic farming, prohibits the use
of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Instead, it promotes natural solutions that combine medicinal plants, quartz and other natural ingredients. Farmers spray these mixtures on plants or spread them across the soil to nourish their crops.
Cosmic influence
Biodynamic farmers often follow the lunar calendar. They prioritize certain tasks based on the position of the moon and sometimes the orientation of the planets. For example, specific days are designated for harvesting root vegetables, sowing seeds and other essential farming activities.
Although biodynamics doesn’t follow a traditional scientific approach, many producers hold it in high esteem. They can obtain certification to guarantee the authenticity of their practices to consumers.
Deal promises smooth admission to Asian markets
EAGLE STAFF
Officials signed an agreement in Singapore to “fasttrack opportunities for Canadian plant-based ingredient and food companies to bring their products directly” to the Asia-Pacific market, a statement said.
Protein Industries Canada and Singapore-based Nurasa established the Asia-Pacific market entry program and revealed it at an Aug. 1 event in Singapore. Nurasa is described as “a leading food innovation and commercialization” enterprise in a Protein Industries statement.
“Canadian innovation is driving the global shift toward sustainable food solutions,” Melanie Joly, the federal industry minister, said in the statement. “This partnership is another example of how the global innovation clusters are helping Canadian businesses succeed both at home at abroad, driving Canada’s leadership in industries of the future,” Joly said.
The program will help Canadian plant-based ingredient and food companies prepare their products for launches in Singapore and elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region. It “will accelerate market entry by offering tailored market insights, product development and formulation support, and access to Nurasa’s state-ofthe-art facilities and network of commercialization partners,” the statement said.
Nurasa staff will help “participating companies localize their offerings, navigate regulatory requirements and test market-fit in Singapore and beyond,” it added.
Demand is growing for “sustainable, nutritious food products” in the region, which “represents a significant opportunity” for such companies, said Robert Hunter, who directs Protein Industries. “Through this partnership, we’re removing key barriers to market entry, helping Canadian businesses diversify their export markets and scale internationally, bringing us one step closer to achieving the full potential of our $25-billion plant-based sector,” said Hunter, of Toronto.
The Asia Pacific market entry program has three modules available to companies, with varied outcomes to meet Canadian agri-food companies where
they are in terms of product development and export readiness.
“By combining Canada’s leadership in sustainable agriculture and plant-based ingredient expertise with Singapore’s strategic role as a gateway to Asia, we are proud to co-develop solutions that overcome market-entry barriers and delight consumers throughout the region,” said Xiuling Guo, who runs Nurasa.
Polyculture farming: embracing diversity
Have you ever heard of polyculture farming?
This innovative practice involves growing a variety of crops together in the same space, mimicking the natural diversity found in ecosystems. Unlike monoculture farming, which focuses solely on maximizing yield, polyculture prioritizes ecological health and balance. Here’s an overview.
Resilience to pests and diseases
One of the main advantages of polyculture is its ability to enhance biodiversity. By planting a mix of different crops, farmers create a vibrant ecosystem that attracts beneficial insects and wildlife. This natural balance helps deter specific pests, as they often prefer certain host plants.
Improved soil health and fertility
Polyculture also promotes better soil health.
Many polyculture systems include perennial crops with deep roots that help stabilize soil structure, prevent erosion and improve water retention. Each crop has unique nutrient needs, and rotating various plants helps the soil recover resources and maintain fertility. For example, legumes like soybeans support a soil-enriching process called nitrogen-fixation, converting this vital gas into a usable form essential to plant growth.
Environmental stewardship
Polyculture supports sustainable farming practices that not only focus on producing food but also prioritize caring for the environment and mitigating the effects of climate change. Farmers who practice polyculture can adapt more effectively to climate challenges and pest pressures while providing diverse food options for their communities.
Could you find your happy place on a farm?
Agriculture desperately needs young talent. Do you feel called to work the land? Find out if your skills and interests are right for this vital profession.
Big questions to consider
Everyone has their unique set of strengths and ambitions. Are you wondering whether a career in food production might be right for you? Successful farmers who love what they do typically answer “yes” to most of these questions:
• Do you like working with your hands and using
tools?
• Are you skilled in several different areas, like management, mechanics, accounting and customer service?
• Can you handle unexpected challenges on a daily basis?
• Do you have a particularly keen sense of observation?
• Are you physically able to work for several hours at a time without taking a break?
• Would you like to work independently and set
your own schedule?
• Do you have an entrepreneurial mindset?
• Are you comfortable working with numbers?
• Are you interested in new technologies?
• Do you enjoy being close to nature and animals?
• Do you welcome a challenge?
If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, then this demanding yet rewarding profession may be right for you. Don’t hesitate to sign up for training courses that will prepare you for this amazing career.
Australian ports re-open to our beef
Companies may now sell Canadian beef to Australian customers, over 20 years after the country closed its ports to the Canadian meat.
“In 2003, Australia imposed import restrictions on Canadian beef,” a federal statement noted. That occurred after a cow sick with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) reached an Alberta slaughterhouse.
Authorities reported the disease, also known as mad cow disease, in 24 mostly European countries after it first appeared in 1986 in Great Britain, according to a document on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website in the United States.
The World Organization of Animal Health officially recognized Canada as having negligible risk status for the disease in 2021, “underlining the integrity of
our animal health and food inspection systems,” a late-July statement from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said. “Canada’s beef production system is recognized internationally as sound, safe and respected,” it added.
“Strengthening our trade ties with Australia - one of our key partners in the Indo-Pacific - means more opportunities for Canadian farmers and processors to grow their businesses, create good jobs and build up our economy,” Heath MacDonald, the agriculture minister, said in the statement.
“This regained access to the Australian market is a testament to the co-operation between the CFIA, the Canadian beef industry and our trading partners,” added Paul MacKinnon, the agency’s president. Firms sold Canadian beef worth $5.02 billion in 2023, up 7.4 per cent from $4.68 billion in 2022, a Beef Farmers of Ontario statement said.
EAGLE STAFF
U of S names wheat-breeding chair
An expert in genomics and wheat now focuses on speeding up the development of new cereal varieties.
“As the research chair, Dr. Valentyna Klymiuk will design and deploy leading-edge strategies and technologies to assess genetic diversity for delivery into new crop varieties that will benefit Saskatchewan producers and the agricultural industry,” said Angela Bedard-Haughn, dean of the University of Saskatchewan’s agriculture college.
The Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, also known as Sask Wheat, is covering the expense of her appointment as research chair, a college statement said. The position was established to improve cereal research breeding and training at the college’s Crop Development Centre “by accelerating variety development through applied genomics and pre-breeding strategies,” the statement said.
“With a primary focus on wheat, Klymiuk’s research will connect discovery research, gene-bank exploration, genomics and breeding to translate gene discovery into improved varieties for Saskatchewan’s growing conditions,” the statement said.
“Better adapted wheat varieties give Saskatchewan producers more effective tools in their rotational toolbox,” said Jake Leguee, who chairs Sask Wheat’s
board of directors. “I have seen first-hand the superior wheat varieties that come from program investments like this research chair,’ said Leguee, of Fillmore.
Klymiuk has worked for more 10 years on genetics and genomics, specializing in wheat and its wild relatives, the statement said. She’ll serve as an assistant professor for the college’s Plant Sciences Department and the Crop Development Centre.
“Klymiuk is a talented early-career researcher, and her passion for innovation will address new challenges as we strive to advance agriculture in western Canada,” said Curtis Pozniak (PhD), who directs the centre
The woman grew up in Ukraine, where she earned bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees from Donetsk National University. She holds a second PhD from Israel’s University of Haifa, where she studied plant genetics, genomics, pathology and using wild wheat to improve wheat-disease resistance, the statement said.
“My vision is to bridge advances in science and technology with applied crop breeding, contributing to the (centre’s) mission of delivering superior wheat varieties that strengthen the resilience of the agricultural sector,” Klymiuk said.
She had been a research officer with Pozniak’s research team at the centre, “managing basic and applied research in fusarium head blight resistance breeding,” the statement said.
Groups ante up for new U of S ag buildings
EAGLE STAFF
Two agriculture organizations announced contributions to a University of Saskatchewan expansion project last June.
The Western Grains Research Foundation is supplying $7 million for “critical facility improvements” and the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley) is chipping in $850,000, their respective statements said.
“The Harrington plant growth facility and the soil science field facility will provide capacity to expand research programs and enhance training opportunities for students” in the agriculture college and the Crop Development Centre, a university statement said. Part of the existing crop science field lab will get renovated to provide more work space. Construction is underway and should be finished next July.
“These state-of-the-art improvements will replace outdated spaces and provide much-needed research capacity expansion,” the research foundation statement said. The new buildings “will expand research and teaching capacity and enable year-round plant breeding and seed development for key crops, including barley,” the SaskBarley statement noted.
The foundation’s grant aligns with its “commitment to increase research capacity and support the development of innovative solutions for agriculture,” said Laura Reiter of Radisson, who chairs its board.
Barley varieties developed at the centre “continue to dominate Canadian acres across both malt and feed categories,” added Cody Glenn from Climax, who chairs SaskBarley. Its grant “will bolster barley breeding and help ensure that Saskatchewan farmers have continued access to world-class genetics and innovations,” Glenn said.
The Harrington building will have new lab spaces and indoor plant growth rooms for breeding programs and pathology research. It will carry the name of James Bishop Harrington, who graduated from the university in 1920, to recognize his significant contributions to plant breeding, the U of S statement said.
The other building will lead to more efficiency in soil research and have rooms dedicated to processing, drying and threshing plants, the foundation statement said.
“With a limited growing season in Saskatchewan, growth rooms are essential for researchers, allowing for multiple cropping cycles in a year,” the university statement said. The soil science building “will better equip” scientists working on “soil health and sustainability, soil fertility and plant production, Indigenous agriculture and environmental issues such as mitigation of climate change and its impact on agriculture,” it said.
Other major contributors include the provincial wheat development commission with $2.3 million, the provincial Agriculture Department, $1 million with federal help, and the oilseeds development commission, $400,000. Other commodity organizations and private companies have also contributed, the U of S statement noted.
“We appreciate the importance of innovative ideas and getting them where they need to be - into the hands of our producers and value-added businesses to help them stay positioned as global leaders in the industry,” said Daryl Harrison, the provincial agriculture minister.
Allen McDonald, Town Council & Staff
EAGLE STAFF
Dr. Valentyna Klymiuk
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COMING EVENTS
Rosetown United Church
FOWL SUPPER: Sunday, November 2, 2025. One sitting at 5:30 PM. Adults $20; 6-12 $10; under 6 FREE. Delivery and pick-up available. For tickets call 306-882-2442 by October 31st. Only 300 tickets sold. 54-2c
Milden Community Hall
CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE
Wednesday, November 12 from 2:30-7:00 PM. Food and refreshments available. 53-3p
Nov. 22, Saturday, Rosetown Farmers’ Market Christmas Craft & Bake Sale; Civic Centre 11 - 3. Lunch available. For tables, phone Carol at 306831-8221. 53-5p
AGRICULTURE
FEED AND SEED
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HEALTH
Spencer Gilchrist at 306-831-9432
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LAND FOR SALE
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
REAL ESTATE
Broadway Laundromat for sale in Fort Qu’appelle. $195,000 Call or Text: 306-501-7078.
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Rosetown SK 44tfn-c
Old Ida and the Halloween nobody came
Before we moved to our newly built country house further up the road, we grew up in a little home nestled in a small gully beside the highway, about eight miles outside the nearest town. On the opposite side of the highway was a little hill, and atop that hill stood a small, weather-worn house that had been there forever. It was occupied by a woman our family simply knew as “Old Ida.”
Remembering When
By Keith Schell
Old Ida was quite the character. She was a feisty, single older woman who occasionally entertained men in her home—probably for simple companionship as much as anything else.
Because she was so feisty, she wouldn’t put up with any guff from the men she entertained. And because the air was so still and the countryside so quiet, we could usually hear the loud arguments she had with her gentleman callers from across the highway at our house.
Old Ida’s fights became legendary among our nearest neighbours. Even though the houses were spread fairly far apart in our part of the country, sound carries under certain conditions. Apparently, we weren’t the only ones who could hear her noisy fights on a
still summer night.
One man in particular caught Ida’s fancy, and it was decided they would move in together. That relationship didn’t last long before the fights started again, and Old Ida eventually threw the guy out on his ear.
Around that time, Halloween rolled around. Not wanting me to miss out on the fun because I was so young, Mom and Dad decided to drive me around the countryside for trick-or-treating. I was far too young then to go up to a house on my own, so Dad waited in the car while Mom walked me up to each door.
We visited all the neighbours we knew, calling on them for trick-or-treat. Because the countryside was so vast and the houses so far apart, it took a long time to make our rounds.
The only house we didn’t visit was Old Ida’s. Because of her feisty reputation, we weren’t sure what kind of reception we’d get if we came to her door. Apparently, a lot of the neighbours with young kids felt the same way that night.
Nine o’clock was my bedtime back then. We had visited quite a few neighbours by that time, and my parents decided it was time to head home.
When we got back to our house, we
pulled into the driveway and got out of the car. We’d left the outside light on to make it easier to see as we walked up to the front door.
We had an outdoor tomcat that we fed, so we always kept a clean plastic cat food dish on the front step.
And then we saw it—illuminated by the glow of the porch light.
The plastic cat food dish on the front step was filled with Halloween candy.
As we walked up to the step, we tried to figure out where the candy had come from. Then, in a sudden moment of realization, my mother looked at my father and said, “It must have been Ida!”
We looked up the hill at the little house. All the lights were off and Ida had retired for the night.
Because of her crusty reputation, no one had bothered with her on Halloween. For a lonely old woman who had thrown her man out and didn’t seem to have a friend in the world, that exclusion must have hurt considerably. Realizing she wasn’t going to get any kids that night, she must have come across the road while we were gone and filled our cat food dish with the candy she had bought in preparation for us coming to her door.
Not long after that, Old Ida sold the house and moved away to God knows where. She is long gone now, and we never even knew if she had any friends or family to mourn her passing.
Looking back on it now through understanding adult eyes, I kind of wish we had gone up the hill that night to see Old Ida for trick-or-treat. Like most women, she probably would have gotten a big kick out of seeing a smiling little kid on her doorstep, all dressed up in his costume and engaged in the age-old quest for Halloween candy.
If you still make the Halloween rounds with your kids and know of an older person who would like to be included in the festivities, try to drop in on them if you can. It would make their night. They’d love to see the happy, excited faces of little kids in costume, searching for candy. It would make them feel part of the celebration again— especially if their own grown kids and grandkids live far away and can’t be with them for the occasion.
Loneliness for an older person can be a terrible thing, especially during the child and family-oriented times of the year. There’s nothing sadder for an old person who wants to be included in the festivities than no one coming to see them.
Like Christmas and birthdays, Halloween is a happy and exciting time for little kids. And the more people who want to be included in the festivities, the happier it is for everyone involved.
To all the witches, ghosts, and goblins out there (and their parents), have a safe and happy Halloween!
Athletes active in winter sports and competitions
SKATING
Almost 100 skaters
have registered for Rosetown Skating Club programs this winter, said Holly Inverarity, who returns to coach alongside Clara Benjamin and Wendy Wiens.
“The CanSkate (learnto-skate) program is full,” Inverarity said.
SPORTS THIS WEEK with David McIver
Club members are scheduled to skate in a regional competition Jan. 24-25 in Kindersley, the Winter Classic Feb. 27 to March 1 in Swift Current, and possibly the Saskatchewan Winter Games during the February school break, she said.
DARTS
The Rosetown Legion Darts Club Fall Shoot was held last Saturday. Twenty-five to 30 people were expected to participate, said club president Aaron Walker.
The club started its fall season on Oct. 7 and continues with its usual Tuesday night sessions.
BOWLING
Six local youth teams will compete in Trio Chal-
lenge zone rounds next Sunday, following the house round held Oct. 18 and 20.
Senior-aged teams will bowl in Rosetown. They include Katie Noel, Casey Shipman and Chelsea Shipman, who finished 105 pins over average in the house round, and Sawyer Heimbecker, Preston Smith Wright and Katherine Lindridge, who placed 59 pins over average.
Junior-aged bowlers will compete in Biggar. Local bowlers Macy Wick, Ellie Main and Beau Wick had the best combined score of all 15 youth teams in the house round, finishing plus 272. Close behind were Josh Heimbecker, Lucy Heimbecker and Lacey Decker, who bowled 124 pins over average.
Bantam-aged teams will bowl in Lloydminster on Nov. 2. They include Harrison Barna, Eliza Barna and Hanru Maritz, who bowled 76 pins over average, and August Knight, Alex Main and Jace Johnson, who finished 32 pins over average.
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
The Rosetown Central High senior B team placed third at their tournament Oct. 18. Competing teams were all B teams from their respective schools.
The North West Central Wildcats defeated the LCBI Bisons 25-20, 25-13 in the final. The Royals, third after the round robin, lost to the second-place Bisons 25-15, 25-12 in a semifinal. The first-place Wildcats beat the fourth-place Kindersley Kobras 25-15, 25-18 in the oth-
Rosetown Seniors Centre activities
Oct. 21 — At the Rosetown Seniors Centre, Whist winners were led by Marlene Dawson in first place, followed by George Patenaude, Wendy Clayton and Cindy McRae.
er semifinal.
In the round robin, the Royals defeated the Kobras 25-17, 25-14, then lost to the Wildcats 25-13, 25-9 and the Bisons 25-19, 25-10. The Wildcats beat the Kobras 25-17, 25-9 and split with LCBI 22-25, 25-17. The Bisons defeated the Kobras 25-10, 25-12.
“They faced some tough serves from LCBI in the semifinal, stopping them from making it to the final,” said head coach Amy Flynn, who coaches with community coach Erin Galarneau.
The team had games scheduled at North West Central last Wednesday and will finish their season at a tournament at LCBI today (Tuesday).
The host Wildcats advanced to junior girls district playoffs in Beechy last Saturday after winning junior girls north sectional playoffs in Plenty on Oct. 18, defeating the St. Gabriel Saints in the final. The Rosetown junior A Royals finished third.
Elrose and Dinsmore junior girls teams competed in south sectional playoffs in Kyle on Oct. 18. The Beechy team went 4-0 in the round robin and beat the host Comets in two sets in the final. The Comets defeated the Dinsmore Wildcats two sets to one in the semifinal. The Wildcats finished the round robin 3-1, the Comets 2-2, Lucky Lake A’s 1-3, and the Elrose Eagles did not win a match.
“Not bad, but we wanted more,” said Dinsmore Wildcats co-coach Lance Morrison of the third-place finish.
Oct. 22 — In Cribbage, first place went to Joyce Morin, second to Marg Beckstead and third to Christine Paquette.
New players are always welcome to join the weekly activities.
In Bingo, both Cindy McRae and Marlene Dawson recorded two wins each. Additional winners were April Yarrow, George Patenaude and Pauline Johnston.
Naim Robertson of Rosetown ran in the Saskatchewan Provincial Age Class Cross-Country Championships in Saskatoon on Oct. 18. He finished the under-16 men’s four-kilometre race in 18 minutes, 29 seconds.
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY ANGIE ROBERTSON
OBITUARIES
With deep sadness we announce the passing of Watson Walker on Sept 18, 2025, in Campbell River, BC. Watson passed away a few weeks before his 94th Birthday.
Watson Walker Age 93
Watson was born in Rosetown and grew up working with his dad on the family grain farm north of Rosetown. Hard work and dedication were cornerstones in Watson’s life. An awkward landing off a grain truck caused a broken ankle which led to meeting the love of his life, Betty, in 1965. They were married in 1966 and welcomed Daughter Beth in 1968 and Son Duncan in 1971. Together Watson and Betty raised their children and worked hard on the family farm.
Watson joined the Masonic Lodge in 1956. Masons and the associated organizations (including Shrine Club since 1982) were an important part of his life. With Betty (an Eastern Star member) they enjoyed years of friendship and activities through these groups in Saskatchewan, BC and Arizona. Watson also enjoyed vintage vehicles, being a member of the Dusty Wheels Auto Club for many years. Watson’s love of Lincoln cars began in 1979. His
collection grew and moved with him to BC where, in true farmer style, he built a very large shop to house and work on his collection. Watson enjoyed being busy, never one to sit idle.
To avoid cold winters, they made the difficult decision to move their permanent residence in 2002 from Rosetown to Qualicum Beach, BC. Watson and Betty were able to enjoy 18 winters in Arizona where they had good adventures and made many friends from across Canada and the US.
Sadly, Betty passed away in 2016. Watson stayed on the acreage near Qualicum Beach until early 2023 when he moved to a Seniors Residence in Campbell River. Watson continued to enjoy the Masonic Lodge and activities where he lived. Watson’s final days were at Discovery Harbour Care centre.
Predeceased by his Parents Duncan and Janet, Sister Janet, Wife Betty, Infant Son William and many other family members. Survived by his Son Duncan (Joyce), Daughter Beth, Grandchildren: Ashley, Daylon, Darci-Lynn, Brendan, Ethan and Evan. Great Grandchildren: Ashton, Paiten, Jaxon, Brooklyn, Bow, Deslyn and Logan.
A celebration of Watson’s life will be held at Shanidar Funeral Services, Rosetown, Nov 7 @ 1:00pm. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Hospital Canada.
Behind the blocking of teammates including offensive end Jordan Bouclin, Rosetown Royals running back Malcolm Ledding falls forward on a 32-yard rush in the second quarter last Saturday against the Hague Panthers. Rosetown won 62-50 and will visit Watrous for a 2A provincial semifinal this Saturday.
PHOTO BY DAVID MCIVER
Senior Royals last local football hope
BY DAVID MCIVER
The Rosetown Central High School senior Royals will travel to Watrous for a 2A provincial semifinal this Saturday.
Rosetown advanced after defeating the Hague Panthers 62-50 at home last Saturday in a provincial quarterfinal. The Watrous Wildcats earned their spot with a 51-20 win over the Preeceville Panthers the day before.
The North West Central Wildcats were eliminated after a 42-38 loss to the Kerrobert Rebels in their league playoff game on Oct. 18 in Kerrobert.
Harper Willis and Boyd Anderson each rushed for three touchdowns for Rosetown. Malcolm Ledding, the third running back used in the game, scored on a 69-yard carry. Quarterback Cale Morris added a oneyard sneak for another major. The Royals reported no injuries, said head coach Mitchell Wintonyk.
Panthers running back Dom Wiens scored six touchdowns, while receiver Ryder Wiens added another on a 34-yard pass-and-run play.
The Wildcats’ loss in Kerrobert came on a last-second touchdown, said head coach Martin McGrath.
McGrath said his team “dominated from the first quarter on” and held a 20-point lead at one point, but he couldn’t recall who scored their touchdowns and
said no scoring summary was provided after the game.
He added that a couple of close calls didn’t go their way — including a fumble recovery ruled in Kerrobert’s favour that his team questioned. On another play, he said a Rebels player might have stepped out of bounds before scoring.
Facing third-and-five and trying to run out the clock, the Wildcats came up a yard short. Kerrobert took over on downs, and after two defensive stops, “got one guy free on a rush to the end zone,” McGrath said.
“It was one of those losses that hits you in the gut,” he said, adding he expects Kerrobert to face a tough matchup in Lemberg against the host North Valley High School Eagles. McGrath noted his older son Liam once faced a difficult playoff game there, and said two younger brothers of players from that year were expected to be in Saturday’s lineup for the Eagles.
The Plenty Junior Wildcats were also eliminated, losing to the Eatonia Junior Spartans in a league semifinal in Eatonia on Oct. 20, said Wildcats head coach Morgan Rousseaux, who could not recall the score.
Grade 8 player Lane Suter scored the first two touchdowns of his career, and Emerson Summarch “probably rushed for four” more, Rousseaux said. Despite the result, “the kids had fun,” he added.
Your
DENTURE CLINIC
309 Main Street
Open Thursdays: 10 am - 4 pm
Open Tuesdays (Rosetown Massage & Nutrition office)
Ryan Anderson, L.D. (Denturist)
D. J. Anderson, L.D. (Denturist) For appointment call Mon.-Fri., 831-8888 (local call).
Irene Rosenfeld
Coffee Time
Posting Date October 20, 2025
1. COMICS: What is Thor’s home planet?
2. LITERATURE: Which of Charles Dickens’ novels has a character named Miss Havisham?
3. ANATOMY: What is the largest muscle in the human body?
4. MOVIES: In the movie “Zombieland,” what sweet treat is Woody Harrelson’s character searching for?
5. ASTRONOMY: What is the largest moon of Jupiter?
6. TELEVISION: How does George Costanza’s fiancee die on “Seinfeld”?
7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a quahog?
8. GEOGRAPHY: How many countries does the Amazon River and its tributaries flow through?
9. ENTERTAINERS: Where is Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland?
6. Poisoned by licking cheap wedding invitation envelopes; 7. Type of clam; 8. Nine (Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana);
9. Memphis, Tennessee; 10. Nephology
Looking Back
With David McIver
100 years ago - Oct. 29, 1925
Fire destroyed a house on Charles Bechard’s farm east of town on Oct. 24. Bechard had moved it there to adjoin his new house. Mrs. Bechard was in the old house when she heard the dogs barking and went to investigate. She broke a window to escape. The two dogs died in the fire, possibly caused by overheated stove pipes. The house, worth about $1,500, wasn’t insured.
A federal election resulted in Progressive party candidate John Evans winning in the Rosetown constituency. Evans, a retired farmer living in Saskatoon, got 2,974 votes; Liberal candidate A. W. Mooney, 2,474 votes; Conservative W. W. Miller, 2,454 votes; and independent Progressive E. B. Gifford, 146 votes. Gifford, a farmer in the Piche district northeast of Valley Centre, had nomination papers signed by 16 electors, 14 of them Farmers’ Union members.
80 years ago - Oct. 25, 1945
For the fifth consecutive time a Rosetown High School student had won the Governor-General’s Medal in the Rosetown-Biggar-West Saskatoon district. Margaret Isobel Slorance had a 91 average with her highest mark a 98 in geometry-trigonometry. Her family had moved from Bassano, Alta., in 1940 to go into business here.
Two Royal Canadian Air Force members got home from overseas: Cpl. R. D. Nicholson had been at a radar station in southern England detecting enemy aircraft on raids. Elmer Smith had been stationed in England and saw action in Italy. 70 years ago - Oct. 27, 1955
The Rosetown Lions Club planned “to spearhead the organization of an old folks home for Rosetown and district,” said Rosetown Lions president Gordon Gardner at a Lions zone meeting.
Lloyd Clarke and Glen Thrasher were re-elected and Bill Wilson was elected to Rosetown council, all by acclamation.
50 years ago - Oct. 29, 1975
Two Delisle-district men died when the single-engine Ercoupe airplane crashed on the hillside of Eagle Creek at about 1 p.m. on Oct. 23 about seven miles north and a mile east of town. Rosetown RCMP and Ministry of Transport officials continued to investigate. The men wee Barry R. Mikituk and Marlon R. Miller, both 23.
Remember When
Halloween fun, story contest and
thrilling new reads
BY BRITTANY BOOTH
Rosetown Librarian
An article profiled Ron Piercy in his work as Sask. Power Corp. district operator since 1948. A 1956 snowstorm “snapped power poles like toothpicks,” affecting an area from here to Saskatoon, said Piercy. Up to 125 men worked to restore power, including private contractors and Saskatoon city staff, he said. Piercy himself worked from when it happened, a Monday near midnight, until Thursday night without sleep, he said. 30 years ago - Oct. 23, 1995
Twenty years before, the Rosetown Co-op grocery store, when being renovated, burned to the ground. The $2-million mortgage on the replacement store had been paid off and $360,000 in dividends would be paid out to members, said president Brian Morris. 20 years ago - Oct. 24, 2005
The Rosetown Rewound Homecoming held in July made a profit of over $11,000. The homecoming committee decided to reserve $5,000 of that for future celebrations such as the town’s 100th anniversary in 2009. Rec director Brian Marlowe said he’d like to see $1,000 set aside to help start a community theatre group.
Former Saskatchewan premier Grant Devine spoke at Rosetown Central High School as a speaker for centennial celebrations.
Grade 9 student Dalton Belanger asked Devine how farmers are supposed to survive on low grain prices. “A lot of them don’t,” replied Devine. Grade 11 student Taylor Marlowe asked about the province’s debt. High interest rates put people in financial trouble and every province, including Saskatchewan, into debt trying to do something about that, said Devine.
Trick-or-treaters are welcome to stop by the Rosetown Library until 5 p.m. on Halloween to pick up candy. Library staff are excited to see all the amazing costumes.
A reminder for those participating in the Wheatland Short Story Contest: the submission deadline is Oct. 31. Short stories can be emailed as a Word document, Google Doc, or PDF to programmanager@wheatland.sk. ca, or a physical copy can be brought to your local branch to be sent in. Submissions should include the author’s name, phone number, email address, and local branch. Winners will be announced Dec. 5. Good luck!
New and Recommended
Reads
The Hitchhikers by Chevy Stevens (Thriller): On the remote Canadian highways in 1976, Tom and Alice set out to heal their fractured marriage. They encounter two young hitchhikers, Ocean and Blue, who seem innocent—but are actually Jenny and Simon, leaving a trail of blood, madness and destruction. Tom and Alice become trapped in a deadly game with nowhere to run.
Shadow Ticket by Thomas Pynchon (Mystery): Hicks McTaggart, a former strikebreaker turned private investigator, thinks he has found job security in 1932 Mil-
waukee—until a routine case to locate an heiress embroils him with Nazis, Soviet agents, British counterspies, swing musicians, paranormal practitioners, outlaw motorcyclists, and more.
Boleyn Traitor by Philippa Gregory (Historical Fiction): For Jane Boleyn, survival means playing every role: a loving wife, devoted sister to Anne, and obedient spy. In a court ruled by ambition and a tyrant’s sword, she must rely on her sharp wit and skillful maneuvering to outthink those around her, knowing one wrong move could cost her everything.
Nowhere Burning by Catriona Ward (Horror): Two siblings journey into the Rocky Mountains at night, heading for Nowhere—an abandoned ranch rumoured to be haunted and a haven for runaways. What awaits could be the freedom they crave, but something darker lurks in the burned shell of Nowhere, demanding a terrible price for sanctuary.
Red City by Marie Lu (Fantasy): Alchemy is an exclusive power wielded by crime syndicates, marketed as a sandlike drug to the world’s elites. In Angel City, rival syndicates Grand Central and Lumines control alchemy. When two childhood friends step into this delicate balance, the city—and their lives—are irrevocably transformed.
Weekly Recipe
Oven Pancake with Sautéed Fruit & Berries
Ingredients
3 tbsp canola oil
3 tbsp packed light brown sugar, divided 1/2 cup low-fat milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 firm-ripe peaches, nectarines, pears or apples, cut into one-inch chunks (about two cups) 4 oz raspberries, blackberries, or halved, hulled strawberries
Preparation
Position rack in middle of oven and preheat to 400 F (200 C). In an ovenproof 10-inch skillet, warm oil over medium-high heat. Tilt pan to coat bottom and sides with oil, then stir in peaches, nectarines, pears or apples. Sauté about 30 seconds until fruit is glistening, then stir in 2 tbsp of brown sugar and sauté until sugar melts and fruit looks glossy, about two minutes. Turn off heat under pan. In blender, whirl milk, flour, eggs, remaining 1 tbsp of brown sugar, baking powder and almond extract until blended. In pan, immediately pour egg mixture over fruit. Scatter berries on top of batter and place pan in oven. Bake until puffed and golden, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven and cut into wedges. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup as desired.
Preparation time: 10 minutes; total time: 40 minutes. Makes six servings, 198 calories each. - Canadian Food Focus
The Anglican Church Women’s Auxiliary work on sewing the church carpet, circa 1913. Among the women are Mrs. Murphy, Mrs. Fiske, and Mrs. Staples, with the minister standing in the centre. The original Anglican Church—the interior of which can be partially seen in this photo—was located at Main Street and 5th Avenue West. PHOTO COURTESY ROSETOWN
