Sheena Hearn’s three-year-old daughter wants to text her mom.
“No honey, we can’t text mommy. We’ll talk about it later,” her aunt, TyAra Fossum, tells her.
Hearn died in a single-vehicle crash on Highway 21, about two kilometres south of Kindersley, on Tuesday. She was the only person in the vehicle.
The 36-year-old from Eatonia, Sask, left six children behind — five girls and one boy, with ages ranging from one to 12.
“People for years were amazed at how many kids she had,” Fossum said.
“If there was anybody that was meant to have kids, it was her. She was just an accepting human. She was amazing with them. She was meant to be a mom.”
Fossum said her sister’s children are having a hard time, but the three-yearold “doesn’t quite understand yet.”
She’s been her aunt’s little shadow ever since.
Hearn’s son, who is one, will have to remember his mother through family memories.
The last phone call
Hearn’s death came as a shock to the entire family.
Fossum had spoken with her sister just 30 minutes before the crash.
“She said she was doing some errands after work. She was just happy to see the kids,” Fossum said.
Fossum learned of her sister’s death four hours after their last conversation.
“My niece messaged me on Facebook at about 9:30 p.m. when they got the news she passed away, and told me her mom is dead,” Fossum said.
RCMP did not have a contact for Hearn’s next of kin, so her death was not confirmed to the family until 11:30 p.m. CST Tuesday.
Police are investigating the cause of the crash.
Province comes together to help Fossum and her husband, who live outside of Melville, Sask., have taken over custody of the six children.
The Fossums have three children of their own, leaving them with nine kids to take care of, on top of planning Hearn’s funeral.
On Wednesday, the Fossums got the go-ahead to pick-up the children, who were in an emergency care home in Eatonia.
“One of my friends located us a 15-passenger van, a U-Haul, and I drove with my dad and husband to get them,” Fossum said.
“When we went to go get them the
principal was there, and the guidance counsellors from the school. They were so amazing and taking such good care of them.”
They packed up the U-Haul with Hearn’s and the children’s belongings and then headed back to Melville.
The principal and counsellors continue to send messages.
“Their biggest priority has been making sure those kids are safe,” Fossum said.
The communities of Melville and Eatonia have rallied to help the children, with support from people across the province.
“Thank you to everybody that has helped and set up the kid’s home,” Fossum said.
“We came home fully set up without asking anybody to do it.”
They arrived home to a fridge filled with food. The children had schools supplies. People donated boxes of clothes, blankets and even a crib.
“Our community and the whole province has been so supportive,” Fossum said.
The family has also set up a GoFundMe Page to help with the sudden loss of Hearn, and to set aside money for the children’s future education.
“I just don’t ever want them to worry about how they’re going to pay for any-
thing in their future, how they’re able to go to school without any parents,” Fossum said.
“We obviously weren’t expecting Sheena to pass away, we didn’t have anything written out for her funeral or saved for her funeral.”
Their main priority right now is the children.
“They’re the most wonderful kids. They were raised with respect to everyone.”
They have such soft hearts, Fossum said. Like their mother.
Sheena Hearn died on April 6 in a single-vehicle collision, about two kilometers south of Kindersley, Sask. (GoFundMe)
A power pole that caught on fire on Thursday, April 8, kept SaskPower crews busy just outside the Kindersley Mall location. This was not the only cause for power outages in the area. Crews were dealing with outages due to windy and rainy conditions throughout the west-central region. PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
Caleb Village resident has found a wonderful pastime
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Retirement is a time to cease working; however, 88-year-old Earl Smith, who resides at Caleb Village, keeps very busy during his retirement years. Most days, you will find him in his workshop at Caleb, where he builds birdhouses and beautiful woodworking projects.
One of his most recent projects is a large Purple Martin house, which will be mounted on a 12foot pole in Caleb Village’s backyard. The Purple Martin house is Earl’s original design.
Earl said Purple Martins come around in the spring, and he’s hoping they’ll stick around now that they have 14 more places in their new birdhouse to make a nest. Earl has also built ten wren houses and five houses for robins.
“It’s a good pastime,” he said. “I give them away as gifts.”
Earl’s love of woodworking began when he was a little boy. “Back then, apples came in boxes,” he explained. “We had no money. I made a picture of a tea kettle out of the base of the apple box and painted it. My mom hung her tea towels on it. That was the first thing I made.”
“I was a farmer and ran an elevator. I never did much woodworking until I retired,” he said. “It’s a pretty wonderful pastime. You get to be my age, and it’s
pretty important to have a hobby.”
Not only does Earl excel at building birdhouses, but since 1995 he has been doing Intarsia woodworking. Intarsia uses different shapes and sizes of wood fitted together like a jig-saw to create a picture that gives the illusion of depth. The pieces are glued to a wooden backer-board which is cut to the outline of the pattern.
Earl uses cedar, pine and spruce to make his projects, but he prefers cedar because it’s available in different colours. “I made five different teddy bears out of wood. All fourteen of my grandkids get them. I’ve made
Kindersley RCMP respond to 69 calls for service
Between March 29th to April 4th, 2021, Kindersley RCMP responded to 69 calls for service*.
In response to public concerns over the noise generated by trucks travelling through Kindersley using engine brakes a joint police operation was initiated over the weekend. Kindersley RCMP in partnership with RCMP Traffic Services and Kindersley By-Law conducted enforcement activities on
Highways 7 and 21 surrounding Kindersley and issued tickets to truck drivers found using their engine brakes within the Town limits. Under recently amended Town of Kindersley By-Laws drivers can face a fine of $250 if caught.
In response to a threats complaint on March 28th Kindersley RCMP arrested a male and conducted a search warrant on his residence. As a result of the investi-
gation a 30-year-old male was charged with Assault with a Weapon, Sec. 267(A) of the Criminal Code, Uttering Threats 264.1(1) of the Criminal Code and Mischief Sec. 430(4) of the Criminal Code. Kindersley RCMP continue to investigate and more charges are anticipated.
If you need to report any suspicious activity in your community, please contact the Kindersley RCMP detachment by calling 306-463-4642 or their local police service. Information can also be provided anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers by calling 1800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitting a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
Online Crime Reporting can be accessed at: https://ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/saskatchewan.
*For more information on the calls to service please contact the Kindersley RCMP detachment.
about a hundred of those.”
Earl said one of his grandchildren shares his passion for woodworking. “I have a granddaughter who is teaching near Saskatoon. She teaches industrial arts and teaches her students Intarsia woodworking. She said, ‘it all started with you, Grandpa.’ She gets my cedar board for me from Saskatoon.”
Even though the cost of wood products has increased signifi-
cantly, Earl doesn’t seem to mind. “I don’t care about the cost because I give it away anyway,” he said. One of his Intarsia pieces hangs on the wall in Caleb’s dining room, and Nancy Vanthuyne, the general manager at Caleb, has one of Earl’s pieces hanging in her office.
Just recently, Earl crafted a horse’s head in a horseshoe for one of the residents at Caleb. “It was a surprise,” Earl said. “I told him it’s because he’s my buddy, and he was pretty thankful.”
He also loves to make gifts for the staff at Caleb and described his most recent project, saying, “I’m making an angel for an angel.” His handcrafted angel will be a surprise gift for Angel, one of the staff members at Caleb.
21043PM1
A picture that Earl made hangs on the wall if the dining room at Caleb Village.
Intarsia wood projects.
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
This week’s joke goes like this ... “I find it hard to understand that people still don’t know how to correctly use ‘their’, ‘there’ and ‘they’re’. Their so stupid!”
On a similar note, many
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Policies that don’t make sense
Canadians are finding it hard to understand some of the federal government’s policies.
Christine Van Geyn, Litigation Director with the Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF), a registered independent and non-partisan charity,
explained why they are challenging the federal quarantine hotel policy, which requires Canadians returning to Canada from another country, to quarantine at a federal facility at a cost of up to $2,000 per traveller. This cost is also non refundable.
Christine said the quarantine hotel policy is redundant and exploitive because travellers are already required to take a test before they board the plane, and once again after they land, and are also required to quarantine at their home for 14 days.
These travellers are required to quarantine at a hotel, even if their test results arrive in a matter of hours. Many travellers have complained they have been forced to interact with many more people than they would have had they quarantined at home. Travellers are exposed to even greater risk while being transported and corralled into large halls while waiting for rooms to be made available.
Some travellers, who have stayed at quarantine hotels, say they haven’t been fed, and others have said the food was cold, sparse and inedible.
The five individuals CCF are representing, all need to travel for compassionate reasons and are not eligible for any exemptions. These people can’t afford the quarantine hotel cost; some are on a tight budget and are single income families. One of their
clients is unable to pay a final visit to his dying parent because he can’t afford the quarantine cost. Consequently this policy is damaging in numerous ways.
Yet another policy that could prove to be damaging is Bill C-7, concerning medical assistance in dying (MAID). Like most Canadians, you will have seen government ads advocating for Suicide Prevention. The ads say suicide can be tough to talk about but help is available 24/7 if you or your friends want to talk to someone on a Healthline.
It instructs people to watch for signs if you think someone is struggling. The signs include becoming quiet, irritable, feeling hopeless or bad about life, drinking or using drugs more, spending less time with friends and harming themselves or taking dangerous risks. These ads are necessary as they give avenues of help for people who are struggling with mental issues such as anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, in direct contrast, Bill C-7 was accepted by the Senate and received royal assent on March 17th. Through Bill C-7, the government
approved euthanasia for mental illness alone, and expanded the policy removing the ten-day waiting period to receive MAID, so someone could request MAID and die the same day, even though studies prove that the “will to live” fluctuates over time.
The Bill was accepted even though disability rights organizations across the country were speaking out and warning of the dangers of accepting the Senate’s amendments to Bill C-7. ‘There’ is a possibility that the federal government expects Canadians to accept ‘their’ polices, even if ‘they’re’ not making sense.
You can contact me at joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Budget may be less liked by future generations
There’s very little in the Saskatchewan Party government’s 2021-22 budget for you not to like.
Your kids, however, may grow to hate it.
That’s the big problem — what’s popular today but maybe far less popular in hindsight.
A big part of Finance Minster Donna Harpauer’s 2021-22 budget theme of “Protect Build Grow” theme is kick-starting a Saskatchewan economy clobbered by COVID-19.
There was $3.1 billion doled out for capital spending— tax dollars to be happily spent on highways and new schools and hospitals in places like Weyburn.
The budget will continue to bolster success in agriculture with a $387 million more, including extra cash to get the Lake Dienfenbaker Irrigation Project going. Meanwhile, farmers will maintain their sales tax exemptions on seed, fertilizer and chemicals.
And while restructuring of municipal grants means urban homeowners across the province will be hit with an average $18 a year property tax hike, it won’t apply to agricultural land. Similarly, those in oil — rural Sas-
katchewan’s other big industry that obviously had a much tougher year — will continue to benefit from what remains a favourable royalty structure and will now support for cleaning up abandoned wells.
The Sask. Party government’s budget placed the well clean up policy in its $4.8-million “COVID-19 support” package that also somehow includes it’s SGI auto refund rebate program.
preserving what we have in Saskatchewan.
One of the emerging themes in this “Protect Build Grow” budget was ensuring Saskatchewan maintained the lowest bundle of utility costs in the country. Again, this something that will be very popular among voters, but it’s also something former Sask. Party leader Brad Wall, in opposition, said was visionless and did little to grow the province when the former Lorne Calvert NDP government promoted this notion. Admittedly, one of the budget themes that will likely be successful for Harpauer and the Sask. Party government is the notion of “protecting” and
It’s the long-held notion of the Sask. Party that key to this province’s success is preserving the fundamentals, which would obviously include farming, oil and mining. It’s also these core components of our economy in which Premier Scott Moe offered much of his post-budget optimism.
Yes, these things are key to Saskatchewan’s future.
But so will adapting to change. So will preparing our future so we aren’t leaving a burden with our kids.
It’s here where the budget was less successful.
On adapting, it was hard not to notice that there wasn’t enough dedicated to current problems.
For example, while the budget should get credit for smaller things like harm reduction response teams in Estevan, $750,000 for buses in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert and
$440,000 to naloxone harm-reduction kits, it seems to have missed the bigger picture of the massive overdose crisis we are seeing in all parts of the province and the value in things like safe inject sites when it comes to saving lives.
Budgets are always about adopting to a changing world. Whether we like the carbon tax or not, we do need to better adjust to new sources of energy that aren’t fossil fuels.
Handing back people rebates on consumption of electricity largely produced by coal seems unhelpful. So is pinching new electric cars for $150 a year for highway upkeep when we all know the damage to highways is caused by large trucks.
But, mostly, the problem is that $2.6-billion deficit and record $17 billion in spending that will pump debt to $27.8 billion this year and $31 billion next year.
In the meantime, we will have to shell out $755 million just to serve past deficits that have become borrowing debt.
That’s less money in the here and now. But what’s more worrisome is this budget may spell a problem for our kids’ futures.
MURRAY MANDRYK Political Columnist
Eston veteran awarded Quilt of Valour
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
March 28, 2021, marked a special day for Paul Thompson of Eston, Sask. This was when he was the recipient of a Quilt of Valour from the Quilts of Valour Canada Society. The handcrafted quilt was awarded as an act of gratitude to honour Paul’s sacrifice, valour, and service as a Canadian Armed Forces member. Since the pandemic, these quilt presentations resumed on March 15, 2021, thus making the presentation to Paul possible.
Paul’s wife, Mary, said her husband served with the 14 Service Battalion when Mary was the pay clerk. Although Paul doesn’t make a big deal about his service time, he went on tour in Germany, Iraq, Yugoslavia and Croatia. During this time, he not only served but forged many lifelong friendships. It was after this time that Mary and Paul became acquainted.
Paul said he joined the CAF in February of 1981 and retired in October of 2005, a period spanning 24 years. His first tour was in 1983 in Germany. “I was there for eight months. It was only supposed to be for three months, but then they found out I played hockey,” Paul said. “They wanted hockey players for their base team, so they extended my time there for a few months, and I played hockey for the service battalion for Germany. I was also a dispatch rider, delivering messages and such. I was single and 19 years old, so it was good. I used the money I made to attend the University of Calgary.”
While attending university, Paul worked as a reserve class part-time and trained during the summer months at various locations such as Wainwright and Vernon. He graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Art degree in Literature, English and History.
“In 1991, I was in the Gulf of Kuwait for two months. I was refuelling aircraft while there,” Paul explained. In 1993 he had a tour in Croatia. “I went for two months; they were looking for drivers and operators.” Paul also worked as a medic for about five years and being a
mobile equipment operator. Paul had another tour in 1994, followed by two back-to-back tours to Bosnia in 1995 and 1996.
When Mary found out about the Quilts of Valour, she thought Paul’s 24year long military career would qualify him as a good candidate, so she filled out the form online. Within a month, the quilt was delivered to their door.
These quilts are quality-made and handcrafted with love and are essentially the equivalent of a Purple Heart award. Volunteer quilter Marcie Erick made Paul’s quilt. It’s just one of over 180 quilts the society has presented across Canada since forming in 2009.
Volunteers realize that the quilts resonate with so many because it is often received when the service members, whether past or present, are the most vulnerable, with hugs stitched into each quilt to offer comfort and strength.
As for Paul, he loves his quilt and was very surprised when he received it. Mary joked and said, “he won’t even let the cats on it.”
Individuals qualifying to be awarded a quilt have served in wars, peacekeeping missions or general/reserve duty. They have suffered injury or illness as a result of their service, including duty within Canada and abroad. This organization relies on a dedicated team of volunteers from across Canada. Regional representatives serve as a contact point for quilters, quilt groups, quilt guilds and quilt recipients. They also present quilts to military members and veterans.
Group leaders work under the direction of the regional representative for their area. These leaders work with quilters and help with local fundraising. There are four guest designers for Quilts of Valour who donate their time and talent to create beautiful quilt patterns. Profits generated from these patterns go to support Quilts of Valour. Many individuals and businesses also support this worthwhile organization.
In January of 2021, the Quilts of Valour Canada Society began conducting a contest for Canadians who have
reached the age of majority in their province. To enter, one must make a complete Quilt of Valour following instructions found on valour.ca/whatwe-do site, and send a photo of the completed quilt, along with their name and address, to contest@quiltsofvalour.ca
There is no limit to the number of completed Quilts of Valour one person can submit, and on December 31, 2021, a random draw will be made to select the winner. The grand prize is a Janome 3160 sewing machine valued at approximately $1249.
APAS re-elects President at 2021 AGM, passes resolution rejecting Grains Code of Practice
The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) held its 2021 Annual General Meeting on March 30, 2021. Following the meeting, the APAS Board of Directors re-elected Todd Lewis, APAS Representative for RM of Lajord #128, as President for 2021.
Lewis farms at Gray, Saskatchewan with his family, and was first elected to the position at the end of 2016. Ian Boxall of Tisdale and Bill Prybylski of Willowbrook were re-elected as Vice Presidents.
APAS Representatives also elected six Directors to the APAS board for a two-year term. Those individuals are highlighted in bold.
District One
Wanda Reid RM of Golden West #95
Steven Donald RM of Martin #122
District Two
Todd Lewis RM of Lajord #128
Bev Pirio RM of Laurier #38
District Three
Don Connick RM of Carmichael #109
Devin Harlick RM of Piapot #110
District Four
Ian Boxall RM of Connaught #457 Bill Prybylski RM of Garry #245
District Five
Donavon Block RM of Leroy, #339
One position to be elected in April
District Six
Scott Owens RM of Eldon #471 Jeremy Welter RM of Mariposa #350
Six resolutions were considered and passed during the virtual Annual General Meeting (please see appendix for complete resolutions). Delegates approved a motion calling for the rejection of the Grains code of practice and adopted 43 recommendations developed by the APAS Rural Connectivity Task Force on internet and cell service.
The organization hopes this contest will help them address the backlog of quilt requests that have continued to come in during the lockdown period. Their priority is to supply the Transition Centres across Canada. This is where injured CAF members are guided in their transition journey back to service, or when it is not possible, to guide them through a successful transition to civilian life.
Mary hopes other vets who served overseas will become aware of and benefit from the Quilts of Valour organization, just as Paul has.
Paul Thompson received his Quilt of Valour from the Quilts of Valour Canada Society in a special presentation on March 28. | SUBMITTED PHOTO
Todd Lewis, APAS President
Kindersley house sales are “pretty darn good”
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
If you take a drive around Kindersley, you’ll notice there are “sold” signs that have been popping up around town throughout the winter months and continuing into spring. Sold signs are posted in front of small, medium and large homes, newer homes and older homes built as long ago as 1912.
Real estate agent, Jenny Wozniak at Edge Realty in Kindersley, emphasized that the increase in house sale has been very unusual for this time of year.
“It is very unusual, but it’s all across Canada,” she said. Mortgage brokers to appraisers say the increase in house sales is happening everywhere. “During that really cold snap in February, I was showing houses every day in -40 temperatures. Some clients weren’t working because of the cold, so we were doing a lot of showings. February and March were busy, and that’s unusual! That just doesn’t happen.”
Jen McLean, who is a sales representative for Royal Lepage, said things are definitely moving. “It’s an early spring market. Renters are taking advantage of lower interest rates to purchase their first home. People want to lock interest in for five years at those lower rates,” McLean said.
However, smaller communities aren’t necessarily seeing an increase in sales. Kim Gilbertson from Royal Lepage in Oyen said housing sales have been holding steady but haven’t increased more than usual, although their busy season will soon begin.
Usually, Wozniak said, she doesn’t see movement in February, but there was this year. “We sold quite a few in March, and
April is looking good,” she said, adding that she had worked during the holiday weekend to accommodate people who wanted to view homes.
Additional contributing factors could be doubling lumber prices, causing people to look for houses that don’t require renovations. McLean noted that move-in-ready homes around the $250,000 price range are quicker to move.
“People are home more,” Wozniak observed. “The pandemic has helped people to want to purchase their own space.” However, there are also people upgrading and moving from one house to another.
“A whole lot of different things are happening,” Wozniak said. “People are moving here from Ontario and Alberta, others are moving to acreages, and there are lots of first-time home buyers. The pandemic has changed people’s thought processes.”
McLean said some people are buying investment property. Even though it may be only a few people, it makes a difference in a smaller community like Kindersley.
Wozniak described Kindersley as a hot spot, as it is enjoying an increased turnaround in the sale of homes. However, she has been showing some homes in neighbouring communities such as Eatonia and Eston. Fewer homes are selling in the smaller communities, but that could change.
Homes ranging in price from $200,000 upwards to $500,000 have been selling. “We’re running out of a supply in the $200,000 to $250,000 price range,” Wozniak observed, and added that houses that haven’t sold for a long time are now selling. “It’s been pretty darn good,” she concluded.
Thanks to offence, Jays promise excitement
Toronto Blue Jays are going to score a ton of runs in 2021, and get huge TV ratings because of their explosive lineup, but rules of baseball insist that manager Charlie Montoyo put his team out in the field on defence for nine innings every day.
That could be the part that hurts.
Toronto’s offence was ranked third-best in all of Major League Baseball by MLB. com’s Anthony Castrovince (behind only the Yankees and Dodgers), but unless HyunJin Ryu — the only legitimate pitching star on the team — can pitch every other day, the Jays could lose almost as many as they win.
But what an offensive lineup! And if the pitching somehow overachieves, Toronto might just make the playoffs and give hope to fans across Canada that a World Series title is possible.
The Jays, who will use Dunedin, Fla., as their home base for at least the first two months due to COVID-19 restrictions, have one of the most talented young teams in baseball. The trio of Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., Cavan Biggio and Bo Bichette, all sons of former
major leaguers and all entering their third year, are expected to blossom this year. The slimmer and quicker Guerrero, especially, is expected to have a breakout season, having lost about 30 pounds in the off-season
But that’s not all. The Jays braintrust went out and signed free agent centerfielder George Springer, who was a member of the ‘Cheatin’ Astros in 2017 who won the World Series. He was probably the best free agent available and that the Jays were able to sign him ($150 million for six years) offers proof that ownership is intent on winning.
Springer and the three aforementioned youngsters have plenty of talent surrounding them. Teoscar Hernandez has 25-30-home run potential and Lourdes Gurriel, Jr., is a future star. and power to spare (42 career HR in 206 games). Another outfielder with pop is Randal Grichuk, who hit 12 homers in 55 games in 2020. Marcus Semien was another free-agent signing and while his stats pale in comparison to Springer’s, he has enough power to put fear into opposing pitchers.
But ah, the pitching. After Ryu, the Jays are thin on the mound. None-household
names Robby Rae, Nate Pearson and Tanner Roark fill out the other three rotation spots, with Steven Matz the fifth starter and out to prove that his 0-5 record and 9.68 ERA with the Mets last year was an aberration. He was 11-10 with the Mets in 2019.
Injuries, hot streaks, breakout players …. who knows what will happen in the next six months? But it’s almost guaranteed that the Jays will never be out of a game, no matter how far behind they might be. It may or may not be a championship season, but they’re going to be a fun team to watch.
• Comedy writer Brad Dickson of Omaha, who spent 13 years as a writer for Jay Leno’s NBC Tonight Show, about
Leno’s lack of sports knowledge: “(He would use) an elaborate set of notes in case anything came up that he didn’t know — for example, how many points a touchdown is worth or what’s meant by the word ‘dribble.’”
• Dickson again, on the night Terry Bradshaw was a Leno guest and how ‘stupid’ they acted together: “How stupid did they act? Picture Curly and Moe if Larry called in sick.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “Brian Cashman, GM of the Bronx Bombers, pays his ex more than $1 million annually in their divorce settlement. So Yankee Stadium isn’t his only costly diamond.”
• Greg Cote of the Miami Herald: “A Miami Heat arena name change is at hand. It’s going from AmericanAirlines Arena to FTX Arena, after a cryptocurrency exchange. Will players now be paid in Bitcoin?”
• PGA Tour player Chesson Hadley, who thought Joel Dahmen might party too much after winning his first PGA Tour title at the Corales Puntacana Resort championship, on Twitter: “I’m so happy for @ Joel_Dahmen! Absolutely first class human. No chance he
makes the charter tomorrow to San Antonio.”
• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “Gov. Greg Abbott has lifted all COVID-19 restrictions in the Lone Star State, meaning the Texas Rangers’ home opener might be a sellout. The rules there are now so lenient that even catcher’s masks aren’t mandatory.”
• Another one from Perry: “And, in news about free agents, the Blue Jays signed George Springer, the Phillies signed J.T. Realmuto and the Royals slammed the door on Prince Harry’s possible return.”
• Headline at TheOnion. com: “Nelson Agholor signs 2-year, 23-drop contract with Patriots.”
• Headline at Fark.com: “NFL owners approve increased profits for NFL owners.”
• Another headline from fark.com: “The Pittsburgh Pirates surprise a local healthcare worker with tickets to the home opener. Hasn’t she suffered enough?”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
Sports with Bruce Penton
Lemsford and Estuary ferries will open soon
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
The arrival of spring and warmer weather has inspired people to get out of their homes, venture outdoors, and do some yard work. Locals also anticipate a game of golf, going fishing, hiking and exploring some of the local tourist sites. One of the most popular places for people to visit in southwestern Saskatchewan is the Great Sandhills.
As of the beginning of April, Leader Tourism sent out a notification that the Sandhills are not accessible due to washed-out roads temporarily closed. Motorists are asked to respect the landowners and wait for an announcement stating that the road is ready for visitors once again.
Later this month, the ferries located at Estuary and Lemsford will also be running once again. Although the ferries are presently not running due to ice flows, Darryl Elsasser, head ferry operator, estimated the ferries would open around April 18th. “Most years, we push in between April 18th to 20th to open,” he said.
The Lemsford Ferry is one of twelve ferries in Saskatchewan. It’s a busy ferry, transporting about 10,000 cars and trucks each year. That’s a lot of trips
across the river for a six-car capacity ferry.
When Saskatchewan became a province in 1905, the ferry service came under provincial jurisdiction. Before that time, there was a toll charged for crossing, but in 1912, ferry operators were put on a government salary, and there was no longer a fee charged for ferry crossings. The number of ferries peaked in 1926, with 47 ferries operating in the province. During the following years, many ferries were replaced by bridges as funding became available for higher traffic areas.
Another area that can be explored is the Lemsford Ferry Tipi Rings, a protected area covering 36 hectares of land on the northern edge of the South Saskatchewan River in the southwestern portion of Saskatchewan. There are at least 158 stone rings, 30 rock claims and a buffalo rubbing stone.
The Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport and Tourism Saskatchewan promotes a joint venture called the Saskatchewanderer program, an online program to influence people to discover Saskatchewan’s year-round travel exploits. However, everyone is free to become a Saskatchewan wanderer, and venture out, explore the Sandhills and take a ride on one of our local ferries.
Photo from Dick Preston from Plenty. He said these are the first two lambs with a few hundred more to go.
St. Andrew’s United Church in Eston has been blessed with Barb MacNaughton as a Minister and friend. Barb and her husband Jim, who also ministered in Elrose and Kyle, have decided to move back to their home province of Nova Scotia to be closer to family. They will both be dearly missed by many in the community of Eston.
On April 3, a parade of over 50 vehicles was led by the Eston Legion Colour Party (which Jim himself is a member), and the church congregation along other town residents waved good-bye as a heartfelt thankyou to Barb and Jim for their many years of service to the Eston community.
A beautiful painting of the church building was commissioned by local artist Christine Code as a farewell present to Barb.
A search committee is currently in the process of looking for a new Minister, and the church manse is getting a new flooring installed and a new coat of paint in anticipation.
A note from Barb and Jim to their congregation and friends:
It is with a mixture of sadness and joy that I write this note to you. Sadness to be leaving all of you while at the same time joy to see my family again and watch my grands grow up. I haven’t the words to say how much we appreciate all that you have given us by way of cards and gifts. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you. You have all made our life here so amazing and our trip home much easier. We will be keeping our email addresses, so stay in touch. Know that each one of you has been a blessing in our lives and we give thanks for you. God be with each one of you. Love Barb and Jim.
Barb MacNaughton
Here’s to Barb, she has been a wonderful friend, There was nothing of hers that she would not lend, She can quilt, sew, crochet and knit, If something was off , she could make it fit. She got a knitting group going and it has been good , We give prayer shawls to people just like we should, We make blankets and snugglies for tiny babies And fancy knit hats for cancer ladies. She led Bible studies where we learned a lot, Understanding like that just can’t be bought , She had book studies and videos to broaden our minds, Knowledge like that is very hard to find. We have had her here for eleven years, Now when she is leaving it brings us all tears , She was much more than a minister to each of us , Nothing she did was ever a fuss. She could fix your computer, your iPad or phone, It didn’t matter I if she was busy or all alone. She always made time for you and I, So it is very hard to say Good Bye! Good luck and best wishes we will miss you so much, Now Nova Scotia is waiting for your wisdom and such.
Lovingly written by Shari Gardiner
Cancellation of horse racing stuns community
BY JORDAN PARKER For The Voice
The mid-March announcement by Prairieland Park that they would no longer host horse racing at their facility has left those involved in the sport and government opposition leaders puzzled.
Community member Nicole Hein has found herself protesting outside Prairieland and asking hard questions, with few answers provided.
“Just out of the blue, this was cancelled permanently. We were negotiating for 24 days of racing. Lethbridge, Ab. Has 33, and they offered us 20. But instead, this has been cancelled,” she said.
“We were told it was because they want to build a soccer field, but I just don’t understand why both can’t happen.”
Prairieland Park represented the last place in Saskatchewan harness racing with horses still existed, as a change to funding in 2014 by the provincial government shifted the landscape.
Though no former representatives of the Yorkton harness racing
community could be reached for comment, a story appearing in Standardbred Canada on April 11, 2014, outlines the fears that came true.
The government announced the suspension of funding for horse racing in the province in the spring of 2012.
In a letter sent to Yorkton This Week, Yorkton’s then-Exhibition Association General Manager Shaun Morin expressed concern over the changes.
“Following the announcement last year by SLGA, Marquis Downs in Saskatoon, home of Thoroughbred racing was awarded a three-year contract for 100 per cent of provincial off-track betting,” Morin wrote at the time.
“That left Yorkton and harness racing with no tools to generate the needed funding to cover purse money and operating costs. The three-year licence secured funding for Marquis Downs for the future. In past years, the 10 per cent betting tax was shared by both breeds at approximately 72 per cent to Thoroughbred and 28 per cent to
harness racing.”
“This means there will no longer be Standardbred harness racing in Yorkton as well as Saskatchewan in 2014 and into the future.”
Legislative Assembly documents from that time period show government officials also expressing concern of what the changes
When contacted for clarification and comments on this story, the provincial government referred questions to Prairieland Park. When asked if they would speak about the decisions around funding in 2012, and how this latest decision affects the province’s citizens’ livelihood, they did not reply.
“On March 12, Saskatoon Prairieland Park Corporation (SPPC) announced its decision to permanently cancel thoroughbred racing at Marquis Down. This was a business decision made by SPPC,” they wrote.
“SLGA is the regulatory body that ensures the fairness of the racing competition and is not involved in the business side of horse racing.”
Prairieland Park cited COVID-19 in a news release as a reason for cancelling the 2021 Thoroughbred racing season at Marquis Down this year. They also cancelled last year.
They stated 75 per cent of their jockeys come from the Caribbean, and said they’ve seen an overall 90 per cent reduction in operations and estimate in excess of $2-million in losses for the year.
In March, they then announced the permanent cancellation of horse racing, signalling the end of the sport in Saskatchewan.
“The decision to end Live Thoroughbred Horse Racing at Marquis Downs remains unchanged … At this time, we do not have anything to add that was not already stated,” wrote Prairieland Marketing Manager Kristy Rempel in an emailed statement.
Matt Love, NDP MLA for Saskatoon Eastview and Opposition Critic for Parks, Culture and Sport and Tourism Saskatchewan, calls the whole situation “very complicated.”
“These people have every reason to be upset. This sport has existed in
one form or another for over 100 years. The provincial government has just gone entirely silent on the issue,” he said.
“We’re talking about hundreds of jobs, and people who may need to leave the province. We lead the country in out-migration and have for years. This is another situation where folks – veterinarians, trainers, and more – can’t make a living from this anymore.”
He notes neighbouring provinces have provincial funding for horse racing, and says the changes in 2012 just don’t add up.
“Our provincial government needs to talk about this. Their silence is an invitation for families to up and move. Where there’s a will, there’s a way, but right now it
doesn’t look like this government has the will to help,” he said.
Nicole Hein – who has become an advocate for this cause – feels Prairieland didn’t do enough to keep harness racing around.
“Their technology to do with betting is that it’s old. They always talked upgrades, but never did them. Winnipeg brings in so much money from betting, and has a successful operation, but there was never any investment here,” she said.
“An estimated $37-million could be lost a year from the end of this. From ticket sales to food and beverage and so much more, it’s sad there’s no support. This is a big community here, and people just don’t want to give up on this.”
5 star dealership status for Eston’s Owens & Sweitzer
This award is something we are proud of, as it is a testament to the amazing team at Owens & Sweitzer. In a year where we have had to navigate many unmatched circumstances lead by a global pandemic, our team has also met the challenges and goals put in front of them to achieve this 5 star award in Dealer Excellence from Agco. This follows our recent award from SATISFYD, in being a Top Dealer in Employee Engagement. We would undoubtedly dedicate these recent achievements to the entire staff at Owens & Sweitzer. This award exemplifies our commitment to community, our valued workers and our customers.
“Today is an honourary day for our team at O&S! For the first time in our dealership, we have been awarded the covenanted and prestigious 5 Star dealer award from AGCO! We couldn’t be more proud to join the 3% of AGCO North America dealers that have received this award for 2020. We thank our staff and our amazing customers that have helped to bring us to this level, even in a year of such unprecedented times! This award is measured by an array of criteria including, parts, service, sales, training levels, customer service quality, business and financial management. Unachievable without great people, dedication and our customers that lead this amazing Ag community, said Cordell Goheen, General Manager.
Pictured L-R are: Rick Heffernan (AGCO Territory Manager), Devery Sweitzer (Sales Manager) and Cordell Goheen (General Manager / Owner)
Local business owner enjoys new accommodations
Cheryl Mullock of Intuitive Interiors in Eston enjoys operating out of their newly built shop at 137 - 2nd Avenue East. Initially, Cheryl had set up a shop in her basement, with plans to build a shop at a later date. In November of 2020, Intuitive Interiors moved into its new surroundings.
“We just moved in before the big snowfall in November and are unable to have a grand opening to date due to Covid,” Cheryl explained. “I found I was going back to help customers in the evenings, and now I can accommodate that with no problem. If people call, I’ll have their paint ready and waiting for them in the morning.”
Cheryl is doing curbside pick-up for the majority of her customers. However, some people still prefer to come into the store for consultations. “I’ll help them pick their colours and help them with the steps of priming and painting. I’m a painter myself; I’ve done lots of it,” Cheryl said but admits she is still learning because products keep changing.
Cheryl has been working with paint and interior design for over twenty years. Twenty years ago, she obtained temporary employment where she
learned about the paint business. “I ended up staying, and I learned a lot,” Cheryl said. She continued working there even after the business sold.
“The business had paint and flooring. I was doing flooring quotes and was the top sales girl for kitchen cabinets,” Cheryl said. “It was really fun! I did all the drawing and measuring by hand back then. It was very gratifying to see a box room turn into a dream kitchen.”
When Cheryl opened her own business, she chose to work alongside Home FX in Kindersley. “They have their fran-
chise for Benjamin Moore paint, and it worked out well for them and for us. We order together since our closest depot is in Winnipeg, and it takes a while to get our paint. If you’re in the middle of a painting job, you don’t want to have to run into the city to get paint,” Cheryl explained.
Cheryl’s determination has proved valuable, not only in her business but also in her personal recovery story. Prior to opening her business, she sustained a direct hit while aboard the back of her husband’s motorbike. Their two-week holiday ended with Cheryl
undergoing surgery in Montana, performed by the USA Olympic ski team physician. This was followed by a lengthy recovery period back home in Saskatchewan.
Cheryl was told she wouldn’t be able to walk without a cane, but she sought another opinion from a physician in Kelowna, where she received two weeks of therapy. “I went there walking with a cane and flew home with the cane in a suitcase,” she said.
She continued to see a therapist in Swift Current, driving there every other day to work out in his gym. Eventually, Cheryl was happy to tell her therapist that she had returned to work parttime. “He said he didn’t know anyone who had my type of injury that went back to work. He said ten percent was because of him, and ninety percent was because of me,” Cheryl concluded.
Besides working fulltime operating Intuitive Interiors, Cheryl likes to work out five times a week. “Sometimes I don’t accomplish it, but that’s my goal,” she said.
Another of Cheryl’s goals is to serve Eston and the surrounding community at Intuitive Interiors, where she is willing to accommodate anyone with their painting and interior needs.
April petroleum Crown land sale brings in $1.9 million
BRIAN ZINCHUK Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Saskatchewan’s public offering of Crown petroleum and natural gas rights held Tuesday, April 6, 2021, generated $1,925,874 in revenue for the province.
This is the first of six oil and gas public offerings for the 2021-22 fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Energy and Resources.
There were 70 leases totalling 19,425 hectare posted and 38 leases purchased, totalling 7,608 hectares. The provincial average was $253 per hectare.
The Estevan area was the major focus for bid activity, with leases within the region receiving both the highest bonus bid for a parcel of land as well as the highest dollars per hectare on a lease.
The highest bonus bid received on a parcel in this offering was $324,786 (or $627 per hectare) for a lease in the Estevan area. This lease totalling 518 hectares was awarded to Cougar Creek Land Ltd. and is prospective for oil in the Bakken Formation.
The highest dollars per hectare received in this offering was for a 64.8-hectare lease in the Estevan area by Crescent Point Energy Corp. They bid $220,554, or $3,406 per hectare, for this parcel that is prospective for oil also in the Bakken Formation. Crescent Point was the most active bidder in this offering, picking up 8 leases in the Estevan area totalling 2,137 hectares 22 kilometres north of Kisbey for $593,661.
In total, the Estevan area brought in $1,631,515 for 23 parcels encompassing 4,079 hectares. There had been 45 parcels posted totalling 13,112 hectares.
The Lloydminster area had four leases posted totalling 486 hectares. Three of those leases were purchased for a total of $64,574 for 421 hectares, an average of $153 per hectare. The highest bonus bid received on a parcel in this area was $41,380 for a lease totaling 259 hectares. This lease was awarded to Husky Oil Operations Ltd. and located 17 kilometres east of Maidstone and within the Rush Lake Mannville Oil Pool. The highest dollars per hectare received on a parcel in this area was $318 per hectare or a total of $20,583. Lacadena Land Company Inc. was awarded this parcel that is located 6 kilometres west of Cut Knife and southeast of the Baldwinton Sparky Oil Pool.
The Swift Current area had just one lease posted, and it sold for $33,092 for 259 hectares. Potts Petroleum Inc. picked up the lone parcel posted in this area for $127.77 per hectare. This lease is located 12 kilometres southwest of Success.
The scheduled date for the next public offering is June 1, 2021.
Cheryl Mullock SUBMITTED PHOTO
WEEK OF MARCH 28 TO APRIL 3, 2021
ARIES
You may have to jockey your way up the professional ladder to find success. There will be plenty of it, but first you’ll need to deal with a considerable amount of stress.
TAURUS
You’ll need to make a few compromises to reach a suitable agreement with certain people. You’ll get justice and settle a conflict before it escalates further.
GEMINI
There’s a lot of work ahead. The competition will know how to win you over by offering a more interesting position. You risk being tormented by questions about how to maintain your integrity.
CANCER
You’ll attract a lot of attention after you successfully diffuse a situation by making people laugh at your antics. You can also expect some warm applause.
LEO
You’ll have plenty to do at home or with your family. Fortunately, your loved ones will see your balancing act as heroic. You’ll demonstrate your ability to be responsible by establishing your priorities.
VIRGO
You’ll know just what to say to stand out from the crowd and make your point. You’ll spend the week driving people around so you can show off your new car.
LIBRA
WEEK OF APRIL 4 TO 10, 2021
ARIES
You’ll face a lot of pressure at work, and you’ll need to spend time with friends to get your mind off the stress. Much to your delight, you’ll be in charge of planning an event with your loved ones.
TAURUS
You’ll come to a realization that guides you toward a new career path that’s more in line with your ambitions. A training course will help you achieve, or at least identity, a new goal.
GEMINI
You’ll start considering summer vacation options with your partner or family. It’s important to plan ahead if you want to have a wonderful experience with your loved ones.
CANCER
You’ll feel extra sensitive, so be sure to rest before you start taking things personally. You might want to consider going on vacation so you can take a load off.
LEO
It’s always easier to negotiate with people when you don’t have an emotional connection. You’ll get along well with anyone you meet, but you’ll bicker with your children, for example.
VIRGO
Sure-Fire Streaming: The best in TV and film from your living room
BY JORDAN PARKER https://parkerandpictures.wordpress.com/
Urban Legend – Available On Netflix
This low-budget 1990’s slasher hit was all the rage when I was growing up, and I still have a deep soft spot for this one, despite seeing some obvious flaws.
It’s about a college student who begins to suspect a series of deaths on campus are being done to coincide with urban legends.
The cast is incredible – including a young Jared Leto, Joshua Jackson, Alicia Witt, Tara Reid, Michael Rosenbaum, and Rebecca Gayheart – and they all hit the B-movie camp button just enough.
There are some cameos from horror movie greats like Robert Englund and Brad Dourif – Freddy Krueger and Chucky from Child’s Play, respectively – and this one is intense fun.
It’s scary, delightful and just an allout shocking good time, with kills that will stick in your memory for a long time following.
Ginny & Georgia – Available On Netflix
This interesting little show from debut producer-writer Ginny & Georgia is the latest crazy on Netflix these days.
It follows 15-year-old Ginny and her free-wheeling 30-year-old mother Georgia, and the ways that they clash.
Ginny is responsible, cautious and yearns for stability. Georgia lives by wherever the breeze takes her, and is the first to uproot Ginny and son Austin at the first sign of trouble.
She’s running from her past, but never lets anyone in long enough for them
WEEK OF APRIL 11 TO 17, 2021
ARIES
You’ll take on a renovation project or purchase quality appliances for your home. Your friends will have a positive influence on you, helping you to strengthen your social connections and be more active.
TAURUS
Using your unstoppable determination, you’ll take on a variety of great initiatives, each more exciting than the last. You’ll take action even though you’re short on time or in an unstable financial situation.
GEMINI
Stress is one of the greatest health threats of the modern age; if you don’t take time to relax, you won’t be able to escape it. You should adopt a more spiritual lifestyle that’s in line with your values.
CANCER
Even if you’re reserved, you’ll spend a lot of time in excellent company this week. You may be responsible for planning an important meeting at work or an event with your relatives.
LEO At work, you’ll be in line for a promotion. If you’re looking for a job, you’ll soon find a position with a lot of potential for quick advancement and a successful future.
VIRGO
There’s plenty of room to grow in your professional life, so take full advantage of these opportunities. Use your instincts and organizational skills to carve a place for yourself at the top of your field.
The idea of going on vacation or enjoying a quick getaway will cross your mind. If you planned to take this trip with a group, it’s possible that some complications will come up.
to find out the issues that lie beneath.
Brianne Howey and Antonia Gentry are charismatic and fantastic as the two leads, and they work so well together.
You may take steps toward buying a property or finding a more suitable place to live. At the very least, you’ll shop around for something for the family. It’ll end up being quite the adventure.
SCORPIO
Supporting turns from Jennifer Robertson, Felix Mallard, Sara Waisglass, Scott Porter, Raymond Ablack and Mason Temple make this a fantastic ensemble dramedy.
You’re a dynamic person who’s up for any challenge, be it at work or in other areas of your life. A quick vacation with your partner, friends or family would be appreciated. No matter how old they are, children can be a challenge.
The Rental – Available On Prime Video
SAGITTARIUS
the 2008 financial crisis take shape before their eyes.
LIBRA
You’ll be warmly applauded for an achievement, even if you see it as trivial. Your actions will be considered heroic, even if all you did was listen to someone who needed help.
The cast here is impeccable: Zachary Quinto, Stanley Tucci, Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell and Demi Moore all get chances to own the screen here.
SCORPIO
Your focus will be on family and anything that concerns your daytoday life. In terms of your career, you may start a family business from home.
It’s like Wall Street meets Glengarry Glen Ross, and yet, it still has so many fresh, eloquent things to say. This is an absolute gem of a film.
SAGITTARIUS
LIBRA
You’ll display your generosity, but there are some who’ll take advantage of it. This will prompt you to seek more respect from others. Your tendency to be outspoken will set the record straight.
SCORPIO
You’ll need to prepare for a negotiation. Whether it’s for work or a major purchase, it’ll require a lot of time and patience on your part to gather the necessary information.
SAGITTARIUS
If you let yourself become fatigued, you’ll be more vulnerable to germs. Don’t forget to make time for rest when you have several demanding projects on the go.
Funnyman Dave Franco writes and directs this atmospheric thriller that was way better than I ever imagined it’d be.
It follows two couples who rent a cabin together for the weekend to celebrate, but jealousy, madness and deceit overcome the group.
CAPRICORN
You’ll be surrounded by confused people, and you’ll occasionally need to take some alone time. You’ll also be inspired to explore a new form of spirituality with others who are close to you.
It’s an extremely well-acted affair fraught with tension and marked by good intentions gone awry.
AQUARIUS
Time is in short supply for many people and this week, you’re no exception. You’ll need to work extra hard at your job to get everything done on time.
Dan Stevens, Alison Brie, Sheila Vand and the incredible Shameless star Jeremy Allen White really make this work. White, to his credit, makes the biggest impact with his screentime and he’s so effective.
PISCES
Either with your partner or your friends, you’ll start to plan a trip abroad or somewhere local. You’ll also make changes at home, even if it’s just moving furniture around.
It’s a difficult film, and it doesn’t go places you expect. But that’s the most fun part of this thriller.
Margin Call – Available On Netflix
Writer-director J.C. Chandor creates his best film with, quite possibly, the smallest budget of his career.
This is the debut from the director of All Is Lost, A Most Violent Year, and Triple Frontier, and it’s still his best.
Nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, it follows investment bankers who, over 24 hours, see
The War With Grandpa – Available On Prime Video
You’ll be feeling excited about the various trips you have planned for the summer. Your curiosity is in overdrive, and there’s no stopping you from quenching your thirst for knowledge.
Every once in a while, you just need to find a way to laugh at something innocuous and easy.
CAPRICORN
This is an excellent week to settle disputes and clear up any billing errors. You’ll win your case at every turn. There will also be many small matters you need to resolve.
CAPRICORN
You might take the initiative to broaden your experiences, which could take you to the other side of the world. At work, a position you’ve long had your eye on will finally open up.
The War With Grandpa is a film that’s not going to stay in your head forever, but my God, was it ever a great way to spend two hours.
AQUARIUS
Like a Home Alone knock-off with less bludgeoning, the film is about a young boy who becomes dismayed when his grandfather moves into the family home, taking his bedroom and leaving him living in the attic.
You’ll constantly be on the move. You’ll improve your mental wellbeing by expanding your spiritual practice You might also invest in a cause that brings you answers.
He wages a prank war with his grandfather – the loser gets the bedroom, and the old veteran obliges. I’ve got to say, the results are pretty laughout-loud.
PISCES
You’ll be overwhelmed by a variety of unique ideas. You’ll work to create a masterpiece or do something incredibly generous for someone else.
Starring Robert De Niro, Uma Thurman, Christopher Walken, Rob Riggle, Jane Seymour, Cheech Marin and young Oakes Fegley, the cast is stacked and hilarious.
Though some gags fall flat, enough of them will have you rolling back and forth that you’re going to be glad you sat down for this one.
Buying a property takes time and money. Fortunately, this undertaking will prove to be quite profitable for you. You’ll be proud of your attempts to boost your selfconfidence.
AQUARIUS
You’ll enjoy wonderful moments with your family. Perhaps you’ll need to work on a project together, such as planning a move or reorganizing your schedule because of work. This will cause some stress.
PISCES
As the warmer weather sets in, you’ll want to spoil yourself, most likely with a new wardrobe. You’ll be delighted that your friends continuously invite you to go places.
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: CAPRICORN, AQUARIUS AND PISCES
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: ARIES, TAURUS AND GEMINI
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: CANCER, LEO AND VIRGO
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
Your West Central
Classifieds
CARDS OF THANKS
On behalf of the family of Audrey Becker, we would like to express our immense gratitude for all the kindnesses shown to us on Audrey’s passing. Firstly, Audrey absolutely loved living at Caleb Retirement Village in Kindersley. Their staff show so much compassion, care and have created such a wonderful community environment. To all the staff at Heritage Manor, we cannot thank you enough for going above and beyond in your care of Audrey. This past year has not been easy on anyone, but you, as healthcare workers, have taken on an enormous workload to keep your residents safe and maintain that ever important contact with their families, and still provide loving, respectful care to our family members. Patio visits, window visits and frequent phone calls were the new method of communication, and meant family at a distance relied on FaceTime visits. We so appreciated that you made these possible. Your honour guard the day of her passing was such a sign of respect. To the Kindersley Funeral Home staff who treat everyone with care and compassion in these difficult circumstances. Thank you for your expert guidance and gentle manner. To our families, friends and the community at large - your words, messages, flowers, food, cards and online tributes remind us that this special woman shared her kindness, humour, compassion, love for life and family with many people. Walter, Rick, Linda, Wendy, Jim and families
FOR SALE
FOR SALE: 2003 40’ Merritt aluminum grain trailer w/air ride and electric chute openers. $23,500.00. Call 306-9626677. APR19
FOR RENT
ROOMS FOR RENT. $500. Includes all utilities. Call Tim Schuh at 306-4609292. tn
HELP WANTED
Prairie West Historical Society is taking applications for an energetic, enthusiastic post secondary student to work 30 hours per week from May 25 to August 21, 2021. Some weekend work may be involved. Duties include providing tours, taking inventory, care of collections, documentation, cleaning, and maintaining grounds. Applicants must register with Young Canada Works through the online candidate inventory at (www.youngcanadaworks. gc.ca). Applicants must be returning to full time studies in the fall. Apply with resume to PWHS, Box 910, Eston, SK by April 17. For more information text 306-402-7534 or email: emljacobson@ sasktel.net
WANTED
CLEAR YOUR CLOSETS. I’ll buy your unwanted Rifles & Shotguns - The Good, The Bad, The Ugly. I have the permits required. Phone or Text 306-463-7756.
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll
R.M. of Oakdale No. 320
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Oakdale No. 320 for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open for inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday – April 16 to June 16, 2021.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with:
Aileen Swensen
The Secretary of the Board of Revision
Gord Krismer & Associates 2405 Gordon Rd Regina, SK S4S 4M4 secretary@gkplus.com
by the 16th day of June, 2021.
Please note appeal fees are to be sent to the assessor at the following address. For information regarding your assessment please contact the Assessor at:
R.M. of Oakdale No. 320 Box 249, Coleville, SK S0L 0K0
Dated this 16th day of April, 2021.
Gillain Lund Assessor
Reference margin limit dropped for farmers and ranchers
BY JORDAN PARKER For The Voice
During an end-ofMarch meeting, Canada’s Prairie provinces discussed Agristability and some changes to the program, ultimately approving the removal of the reference margin limit.
“We asked for that removal because it allows more opportunity for payments to be triggered for producers. Cattle producers were having issues with plant closures due to COVID-19,” said Todd Lewis, President of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan.
“They were selling cattle into a depressed market, and the feds and provinces agreed to remove the margin limit to help out.”
Lewis said it goes retroactively to 2020 for Agristability insurance payees, and it’s a huge improvement.
On the other end, however, the Prairie provinces asked the federal government to “provide their 60 per cent share of the cost to increase the compensation rate,” but this was denied.
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Coleville
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Coleville for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open for inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday – April 16 to June 16, 2021.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with:
Aileen Swensen
The Secretary of the Board of Revision
Gord Krismer & Associates 2405 Gordon Rd Regina, SK S4S 4M4 secretary@gkplus.com
by the 16th day of June, 2021.
Please note appeal fees are to be sent to the assessor at the following address. For information regarding your assessment please contact the Assessor at:
Village of Coleville Box 249, Coleville, SK S0L 0K0
Dated this 16th day of April, 2021.
“The producer groups in Western Canada were aligned on this, and disappointed funding wasn’t put up higher by the province”, said Lewis.
“The funding formula for the program is the feds do 60 per cent and the province does 40. We wanted the feds to pick up more for their share. This has been a place for a decade, but they didn’t want to change.”
Agristability allows producers to sign up and pay premiums, but Lewis said things haven’t really changed since 2013, leading to fewer than 40 per cent of producers being involved right now.
“It’s an imperfect program, though the changed help. But we have negotiations in 2023, and we want major changes. Farmers are voting with their feet, and aren’t signing up where they don’t see value.”
Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit provided information about the province’s thoughts on the program in a statement.
certainty for the Saskatchewan agriculture industry. Producers and agri-businesses have made it clear that removing the RML will help the AgriStability program function as intended and make the program more effective and equitable,” he said.
He also spoke on the ask for the percentage changes in funding from the federal government.
“At the March 25 FPT meeting, the Prairie Provinces also proposed that the federal government provide their 60 per cent share of the cost to increase the compensation rate, while allowing the provinces flexibility in the level of funding that they can provide,” he said.
Kindersley Denture Clinic
“Producers have expressed concerns about the timeliness and predictability of the AgriStability program. This (reference margin) change reduces the complexity of the program and adds
“A number of provinces supported this motion, representing the vast majority of Canada’s agricultural production. The federal government proceeded to withdraw their funding for the compensation rate change. Saskatchewan is committed to providing support to our producers with this short-term change to AgriStability. Work continues with our FPT colleagues to evaluate long-term alternative options to the AgriStability program.”
Gillain Lund Assessor
David Marit Sask Ag Minister
Todd Lewis APAS President
Orville John Chester - 1931 - 2021
Orville John Chester was born on Jan 23, 1931 to John and Bella Chester of Fort McLeod, Alberta.
With family at his side Dad, at the age of 90, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2021 at the Kerrobert Health Centre in Kerrobert, SK.
Dad was predeceased by his beloved wife Delores “Laurie”; and parents, John and Bella.
Due to current Provincial Health restrictions, the Funeral Service along with the burial will be private family events.
Condolences for the family may be left at the online obituary at www.prairieviewchapel.com
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Prairieview Chapel and Crematorium (306) 242-7884.
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Obituaries
BECKER - Audrey Annie Isabel Lewis was welcomed into the world on November 14, 1929, at the local general hospital in Kindersley, Saskatchewan.
She was immediately adored by her father, Nelson Lewis (1896 - 1982), her mother Georgina (Forbes) Webster (1891 - 1975), and her five older brothers (all of whom were born to the late John Webster) - Forbes (Beatrice), William (Phyllis), Douglas (Dorothy), Gordon (Louise) and James (Ruth).
Completing the family tree, Audrey became the youngest child and only daughter in the Webster-Lewis family.
Raised alongside her siblings on their family farm 3.5 miles outside of Kindersley, Audrey spent much of her youth attending school by horsedrawn carriage (built by her father and pulled by Audrey’s favourite horse - Jess), going to dances at the C.N.R. Hall, and helping pick fruit and veggies in the family garden, and managing the household duties with her mother.
bookkeeper, a proficient comptometer operator and a master typist. After gathering her varied work experience in the city, she returned to the Kindersley area to work and reunite with Walt.
Audrey and Walt married on July 7, 1949 at the United Church, reception at the Seymour Hotel in Kindersley, danced the night away at Turvin School and were fortunate enough to celebrate 71 wedding anniversaries after their honeymoon to honour their love.
Construction. An opportunity came up to learn the insurance business.
She apprenticed under Kelly Rowland at Kelly Agencies, which she and business partner Eric Smith would go on to coown from 1965 through to 1984. Throughout those years, Audrey would manage multiple real estate rentals, while running the insurance business, which doubled as an accounting firm and travel agency.
She and Walt began travelling to Mesa, Arizona after selling the insurance business in 1984 and enjoyed thirty-three years snowboarding south for the winters. They both took up a new hobby, becoming skilled, seasoned golfers. Audrey loved spending her time on the greens or hiking with friends and family.
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She enjoyed playing ball with the neighbourhood kids at community picnics, going to Sunday School and church services, and getting away on family camping trips to Loon Lake.
Audrey met her lifelong love and forever dancing partner, Walter Becker in 1945 at a community dance in Glidden. She fell for his quick feet, smooth moves and good looks. They flew around the room together that night and continued their dance together for 76 years afterwards.
A trailblazer by nature, Audrey went by train to Saskatoon in 1947, and at eighteen years old, began studying at Saskatoon Business College.
Following graduation, she became a favoured
The newlyweds moved to Eatonia where Audrey worked for Calvin Snyder and became better acquainted with Walt’s plentiful, kind and welcoming Becker family.
Audrey and Walt began a family of their own with Wendy arriving in the wee hours of a stormy February morning in 1951, and Richard (Rick) in May, 1954.
The four of them relocated up the road to Kindersley in 1958 to be closer to work opportunities for Walt for the school district and to purchase their first family home.
Audrey started work with the CIBC, then for Desmond Paine (an architect and draftsman) doing the typing, tendering, and specifications before the office moved towns, and then for Veldhoen
True to her faith, Audrey was an active member of the United Church Women (UCW) and sang with Walt in the St. Paul’s United Church Choir.
She was simultaneously instrumental in the Ladies Legion Auxiliary, serving as secretary and treasurer for multiple terms, volunteering at countless fundraisers, and helping the community secure finances for Minor Sports.
Somehow, she still managed to have time to take Wendy and Rick to their numerous sporting events, support Walter’s umpiring and refereeing schedule, and take the family away on summer holidays just like when she was a child.
Always maintaining a large, abundant garden, Audrey approached everything in life with persistence, determination and a smile. Those that knew her, knew how infectious her positive spirit and heartfelt laughter could be.
Family time was incredibly important to Audrey, and she always made sure to stay connected with her immediate and now-extended family, helping organize reunions, gatherings and special events to bring everyone together. She always managed to make her way to wherever Wendy was living, determined to stay close with her children and grandchildren.
In their golden years, Audrey and Walt spent many miles on the road in their motor home, travelling with close friends throughout the continent and experiencing the richness of life. She held many fond memories of trips to British Columbia, Alaska and the East Coast to spend time with her father’s family.
The last few years of Audrey’s adventure-filled life was spent in great closeness with Walter and her immediate family, all of whom will miss her dearly. Wife, mother, grandma, nanny and great-grandma, Audrey is now a guardian angel to her husband Walter, daughter Wendy (Jim) and her three children, Deborah (Bob), Scott (Candice) and Rob (Fran), as well as her son Rick (Linda) and their three children, Dean (Candice), Sean (Lana) and Ali (Mat), as well as her three step-grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and six step-great-grandchildren. Audrey passed peacefully, embraced by the love of her family on March 28, 2021, in the Kindersley Manor. We look forward to celebrating her life with friends and family at a future time when we can gather together safely and ceremoniously.
While flowers have been graciously declined, donations can be made in Audrey’s honour to St. Paul’s United Church in Kindersley, Saskatchewan.
