TRIPLE THE FUN! Triplet siblings Elly, Theia and Reese Hardin were introduced to triplet calves born on January 20 at the Circle 7 Ranch in Shaunavon, SK. It is quite rare for a cow to give birth to triplets. The bull calf weighed in at 74 lbs and two heifers weighed 60 and 56 lbs.
The Town of Kindersley Administrative Office issued an immediate release on January 28 after a staff member received a positive test result for COVID-19.
The release stated that the Town of Kindersley Administration Office would be closed until Monday, February 1, 2021 for deep cleaning and that their main concern was to continue to provide services to the residents of Kindersley while keeping their staff members safe and healthy.
The Town has been in contact with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and are following the directions they have provided.
Wind Power Project proposed for R.M. of Snipe Lake
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
The region of Eston, Sask. and the Rural Municipality of Snipe Lake has received a proposal for a wind project by PNE Canada Inc. Lucas Duffield, PNE’s project manager and business development repre-
sentative for projects in Western Canada, filled in the details of the project.
The company’s services encompass all the phases of developing and operating wind farms. In addition to wind energy, the company’s range of offers includes photovoltaics (solar), electricity storage,
service products and the supply of clean electricity. PNE Canada Inc.’s Saskatchewan projects have not yet received approval from SaskPower to construct and connect to the grid.
CONTINUED PAGE 2
PHOTO BY SYDNEY HARDIN
Pure New Energy targets Eston area Kindersley
Composite School Honour Roll
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
Duffield explained, “The approval and connection process involves our projects being selected by SaskPower as the successful proponent in their procurement process. PNE Canada’s Saskatchewan projects are being reviewed alongside other wind developers project by SaskPower. The review of these proposals will be made public when SaskPower selects the successful project.”
The proposed wind project size near Eston, Saskatchewan, is 50MW to 100MW, which would consist of anywhere between 8 to 18 turbines. The size of the project and number of turbines has yet to be determined and is based on a number of factors, including the final turbine model that is selected by the developer and the size of the project that is selected in the procurement process.
According to Duffield, the region of Eston is favourable for a wind project because there is a high and consistent wind resource. That alone does not determine a favourable site for wind development, though. Further factors are proximity to existing grid infrastructure, a compatible environment and existing use of land, and community acceptance.
Although there are other proposed wind developments around the Rural Municipality of Snipe Lake, this is the first wind development proposed in the Rural Munic-
ipality of Snipe Lake.
“Participation in a wind project is not compulsory,” Duffield said. It is a requirement that all landowners involved with wind projects in Saskatchewan provide their approval before construction.
“We cannot disclose the number of landowners involved in the project or their personal beliefs or motives for participation in the project,” Duffield noted. “The amount of land used for the project has yet to be determined. We will have a better understanding of the amount of land available for a potential project after our environmental surveys and studies are conducted in the proposed project area. The first round of these surveys and studies will be complete between quarter one and quarter four of 2021.”
The project has begun development. Suppose a developer is selected by SaskPower and receives final approval from the Province of Saskatchewan to initiate construction. In that case, the wind project plans to be operational sometime in late 2023 to early 2024.
“Most turbines are sited from occupied residences at a distance of 750m-1000m, but it is entirely dependent on the project layout and project area. Turbines will be sited from residences and infrastructure such as power lines, water lines, gas lines, etc., in accordance with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment regulation, as well as in
consideration of local environmental and social sensitivities,” Duffield explained.
“Approval for wind projects in Saskatchewan are required by various levels of government. Municipal bylaws for wind energy projects exist in most municipalities throughout the province. Amendments to existing bylaws around wind energy projects may be required to ensure that the proposed project infrastructure is in line with the bylaw requirements. RM approval and relevant zoning will be required for the project,” Duffield concluded.
Should the project proceed, local contractors and their services in constructing a wind energy project would include but are not limited to welders, electricians, fuel hauling, gravel hauling, concrete pouring, crane operators, environmental and land service providers and excavation services.
Three methane-reduction projects taking advantage of Saskatchewan oil and gas incentives
BRIAN ZINCHUK
REGINA – Methane, the key constituent of natural gas, is a potent greenhouse gas when emitted to the atmosphere unburned. In recent years there have been international, national and provincial efforts to reduce methane emissions. On Jan. 26, the Government of Saskatchewan announced support for three new projects that will reduce methane emissions, increase gas processing capacity and create jobs. The projects qualify for the Saskatchewan Petroleum Innovation Incentive (SPII) and the Oil and Gas Processing Investment Incentive (OGPII), which provide a percentage of transferable royalty credits once private funding has been dedicated and facilities have been built.
“These projects, including one that’s first of its kind in the province, are already creating jobs,” Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre said in a release. “They support Saskatchewan’s economic recovery and the environment at the same time, by capturing and commercializing methane, rather than venting or flaring it. Our SPII and OGPII incentives support oil and gas operations that want to grow and generate more value. Most importantly, they are structured so that government funding follows private investment, it doesn’t lead.”
Highrock Resources Ltd., along with its joint venture partner, Kindersley-based Verdera Energy, is conditionally approved in the SPII program for their approximately $1.5 million investment in a new flaregas-to-power project, which is the first of its kind in
FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
R.M. OF NEWCOMBE NO. 260
1) NE 35-26-23 W3rd 160 acres approximately
Closing date for Tenders is February 28, 2021
• Highest tender or any tender not necessarily accepted.
• Offers must exclude G.S.T. or any other levies which may be payable by the purchaser.
• Purchasers must rely on their own research and inspection of the property.
• 10% of purchase price must accompany tender which will be returned if tender not accepted.
• 1 year remaining on crop share lease (expires Nov 30, 2021).
Landlord pays 25% of inputs. 2020 crop was lentils.
• Offers should clearly state land description and total offer.
Forward tender to: Sheppard & Millar
Barristers & Solicitors 113 - 1st Avenue East Box 1510
Kindersley, Saskatchewan S0L 1S0
Attention: Mark L. Millar
Please include file 21-6098 when submitting tender.
Saskatchewan. Executed at Highrock’s Minard oil battery, the project will repurpose a jet engine turbine and turn previously-flared gas into power for onsite use. It is expected to be operational in the winter of 2021.
“We’re excited to get to work on this innovative project and want to thank the Saskatchewan government for launching the SPII,” Highrock Resources vice president of land and business development Paul Smith said. “This incentive allows us to partner with Verdera Energy to develop new innovative projects that help to significantly reduce emissions and help build Saskatchewan’s economy.”
Steel Reef is conditionally approved in the OGPII program for a project to expand gas processing facilities, which has already created approximately 50 local construction jobs. The project in question is at Coleville, near Kerrobert, according to Steel Reef. This investment will add longevity and significantly increase the facility’s throughput capacity, allowing oil and gas producers to capture and sell methane gas that is brought to the surface as a byproduct of oil production.
“As a company that specializes in flare gas capture, Steel Reef is pleased to collaborate with the Government of Saskatchewan and provide innovative solutions to support its emissions reductions goals,” Steel Reef Chief Operating Officer Austin Voss said. “These sorts of partnerships create a more sustainable and economic environment for investments in the commercial use of natural gas that was previously being flared or vented. This is a great outcome for the economy and environment.”
Ridgeback Resources is also conditionally approved for the OGPII program to support construction of a new gas fractionation plant and supporting infrastructure near Innes, southeast of Griffin. This value-added project is currently under construction, with a total investment of approximately $12 million. Once operational, the facility will process methane gas to remove natural gas liquids and separate the liquids into products such as propane and butane for sale in the province. The facility allows oil producers to move away from flaring and venting at oil wells as a result of the realized liquids premium associated with the natural gas liquids, the release noted.
“Saskatchewan’s business climate through programs like OGPII and efficient and predictable regulatory environment make this a very attractive jurisdiction to grow our company,” Ridgeback Resources chief executive officer J. Paul Charron said.
Combined, these three projects are expected to reduce provincial methane emissions by up to 251,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, which is equivalent to emissions from the energy used in over 28,000 homes for a year.
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Here’s a quote by Bob the Minion, “Starting tomorrow whatever life throws at me, I’m ducking so it hits someone else.”
It’s a funny quote, but practically speaking, it may not work out. Words posted at a Holocaust Museum say: “First they came for the Jews and I did not
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Are people of all backgrounds welcome?
speak out, because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the homosexuals, and I did not speak out, because I was not a homosexual. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak for me.” You may see different versions of the quote, but the message remains the same - people were complicit in their silence.
In order to make a difference in our world, people need to speak up when it’s not always popular or acceptable to do so, rather than maintain one’s respectability. This became evident recently when MP Derek Sloan was ousted from the Conservative party.
The first effort to eliminate Sloan involved a donation of $131 which he
Shad accepted from a man named Paul Fromm. Erin O’Toole declared Sloan had an intolerance for racism within the party. Fromm said, “I think somebody is out to get Sloan and are prepared to use just about anything.”
Other MPs expressed their concerns, as the party acknowledged vetting hundreds of thousands of supporters would be challenging, and even impossible. It appeared this initial attempt to oust Sloan had failed.
But then O’Toole said Sloan had a pattern of destructive behaviour, because he was encouraging supporters to get involved in the Conservative policy convention. However, there were numerous groups and individuals diligently encouraging Conservatives to get involved, participate, and register for the convention.
This was obvious, as over 3300 Conservatives registered for the first-ever virtual convention. This is a record over all past conventions, and shows that members care about the Party’s governance and want to help build a great platform that will help contribute to a healthy Canada going forward.
It was the direct result of people believing leaders should be challenged by the people in their ridings, and that people should use their influence to get things done. However Sloan’s encouragement to people to “be a presence at convention” was frowned upon by the party.
Prime Minister Trudeau said he’s pleased O’Toole is showing leadership. “Political parties need to remain vigilant, particularly in the wake of what we see in the United States, from the infiltration or the active presence of fringe or extremist or violent or unacceptable or intolerant elements,” the Prime Minister said at a news conference. “And that’s something that we constantly need to work towards as all politicians in Canada.”
Is O’Toole looking to receive respectability from Prime Minister Trudeau? O’Toole has said, “People of all backgrounds have a place in our party.” But on the other hand he penned a lengthy letter rejecting the “far right” in his Conservative party. But is it ‘his’ Conservative party, or the ‘people’s’ Conservative party?
Sloan isn’t the only PC who has been ousted from
the Conservative party. MPP Roman Barber said, “I wrote a letter to Doug Ford, asking him to lift the lockdown. In response, I was removed the Ontario PC Caucus.”
What does the Conservative Party consider to be a “pattern of destructive behaviour”? Does it include expressing views contrary to those of Mr. O’Toole? Does it include expressing social conservative views and policies? Do politicians get to define what’s unacceptable?
The Conservatives don’t seem to have a clear definition for a “pattern of destructive behaviour”, but they do have a solution ... removal. What happens when many Conservatives find themselves looking around within the party and saying, “there’s no one left to speak for me”?
Things may be tough for Sask. in COVID-19 fight
askatchewan may finally be getting tougher in some aspects of COVID-19 fight.
Some still questions whether it’s really necessary.
For others, however, the questions are: Why did it take so long? Why isn’t the government getting even tougher?
People fed up with restrictions and wanting a break will likely be especially frustrated with the government’s decision to extend the pre-Christmas restrictions limiting household gatherings to immediate family and outdoor gatherings to 10 people to Feb. 19.
Certainly, the daily case count has slipped a bit (to an average of 254 cases a day, based on the last seven days).
“These measures are working when we follow them,” Premier Scott Moe said last week, suggesting that all we have to do is follow the existing rules to make sure things are working.
“There’s been a small number — mainly bars and restaurants — who are not following them.”
Therein lies the problem. Some businesses or their customers clearly are not following the rules, with three bars in Regina or Saskatoon being fined $14,000
each for violations.
The fines may appear to be an indication of the government getting tough, but they may also be a sign that we’ve gone about as far on COVID-19 restrictions as Moe is willing to go.
He announced during the final week of the Saskatchewan election campaign in October that there would not be another lockdown and has stuck to that commitment.
Last week, Moe described fines as the last resort and pleaded with people to follow the existing restrictions in place.
ple unknowingly carrying the virus and spreading it to others.
An arguably better indicator is the positivity rate — the percentage of people tested who tested positive. It has stubbornly remained more than 10 per cent in Saskatchewan for weeks.
If people do so, perhaps the province will be able to list restrictions in three weeks, he added.
MURRAY MANDRYK Political Columnist
But will that truly solve the COVID-19 problem? Saskatchewan’s lower daily case count may not be quite as rosy as the Premier suggest.
The problem with the case numbers is that they are based on identified symptomatic people getting testing when the real problem may be asymptomatic peo-
And the most crucial number is the death toll that’s already made January the deadliest month in Saskatchewan for COVID-19 related fatalities with a week in the month to go.
And also contrary to Moe’s suggestions, we haven’t been as tough as other places.
For the first time in your lifetime, you face restrictions travelling to a neighbouring province after Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister issued a 14-day quarantine order for outsiders coming in.
Of course, many Manitobans are unhappy about such restrictions — especially since the province is well into its
second month of a lockdown with restrictions far more severe than here.
But Manitoba’s per capita daily new case counts — once far in excess of Saskatchewan’s — are now back down in the double digits.
And with a new more virulent strain of COVID-19 now in this country, the new worry for all jurisdictions is a far more rapid spread of cases capable of swamping health systems.
By contrast, Moe is now counting on a combination of fines for individuals and business breaking the rules, people’s willingness to abide by the existing rules and the arrival of vaccines.
It is true that the Saskatchewan Premier has overseen one of the most successful vaccine rollouts in the nation.
But as Moe frustratingly acknowledged last week, the province has now run out of vaccines to distribute. And we are months away from seeing enough of a critical mass of people vaccinated people to make a difference.
Of course, there’s the legitimate hope numbers will just go down with the warmer weather.
But if they don’t many may wonder why Moe wasn’t get tougher.
Just a gal from Glidden ...
Will 2021 get better? You bet.
KATE WINQUIST kate@yoursouthwest.com
Aswe turn another page on our calendars, we are getting a little bit closer to spring. Let’s face it, 2020 wasn’t a banner year for the majority of us, and the beginning of 2021 has not been a heck of a lot better! I’m hoping spirits will be lifted with the days getting longer and the temperatures getting warmer.
I’ve had a case of the January blahs for, well, pretty much all of January! December’s excitement with my husband and oldest son moving up to Kindersley, Christmas and all its deliciousness, and adding another newspaper to our media business, January just seemed to pale in comparison. Not that I want every month to have so many life-changing adventures. I’d like the pace to slow down just a tad while still being able to enjoy day-to-day life.
I genuinely believe most of life’s misery lately has been caused by the media. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Kate, you run not one, but two newspapers. Your business is called Your Southwest Media Group!” That is very true. I have never beaten to the same drum as your typical media outlets, and I never will. Trust me!
There is a reason that I live in my own little bubble. I like to be in the background, minding my own business while exploring the outside world on my terms.
What really got under my skin this past month was the storming of the United States Capitol on January 6. I do not want to get into a political argument with anyone on this. Whether you believe that the riot and violent attack against the United States Congress was called to action by President Donald Trump or not, it was just a sad, sad day for America and the rest of the world. You couldn’t turn on your television without seeing the horrific images. The mainstream media was lapping all of it up. Between the coverage of that and the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s a wonder that we all haven’t been driven into madness.
Thankfully, I do not watch a whole lot of TV.
Newly elected President Joe Biden was sworn in, and to no one’s surprise, he killed the Keystone Pipeline the
same day. Alberta premier Jason Kenney referred to Biden’s move to cancel the pipeline as a ‘gut punch.’ I think it was more like a kick to the groin.
I picked a fine time to take over The Oyen Echo, I thought to myself. The community was going through a mini-boom just last year. Now business owners and residents are bracing themselves and preparing for life without the Keystone construction’s added benefit.
It will be my fourth edition of The Echo this week and the twenty-ninth for Your West Central Voice. The one thing that I can promise you is that there won’t be a whole lot of gloom and doom on these pages. I will continue to do what I have always done and that is to provide the news and photos that I believe you want to see.
My Mom called me up last week, expressing her disappointment that I once again missed my “Gal from Glidden”
column. “That’s your bread and butter,” she said. I guess she is right. My success has been built on giving a part of myself to my readers. Through my words and my photos, you have gotten an inside look at my world. Keep reading. Keep looking. Keep positive. 2021 will get better. I hope I will take you on many more adventures.
It really is a small world! I graduated from Kindersley Composite School in 1987 with (I believe) 67 classmates. One of those classmates was a girl by the name of Denise Holyoak. I had not had contact with Denise until just recently. She is now Denise Hogan and she lives in Oyen with her husband Don. Guess where Denise had been working for the past 9 years? That’s right. The Oyen Echo! Denise was kind enough to send me a photo of when she and I played softball together. Ah, yes! The good old
days.
The photo was taken at a ball tournament in Eatonia, back when we were in Grade 7, so I was probably 13 yearsold. Thank you to the TD Bank for sponsoring our team. What lovely pom-pom hats we had!
One of my best friends at this time was Tracy Derr. I hadn’t thought about Tracy for years and wondered where she had gotten to. She moved from Kindersley when we were in Grade 8 or 9 and we lost touch.
I’m happy to say that through the magic of Facebook, I was able to find Tracy on January 17, which just happened to be her 52nd birthday! It turns out that she has had a great life, is happily married and has two grown children. Her daughter just got married last summer.
If I hadn’t taken over The Echo, I never would have found this out!
Kindersley girls softball team at a tournament in Eatonia (circa 1982). Back Row (L-R): Tracy Derr, Katie Drummond, Karla Longmire, Denise Holyoak, Jean Torrens, Debbie Bachman. Front Row (L-R): Janice Cote, Chris , Tammy Fritz, Terry Wolfe, Sherry Senn, Tara Yates.
Long-time prairie restoration event goes virtual to tackle critical issues
Native prairie landscapes are uncultivated grassland ecosystems that are dwindling quickly. With estimates suggesting there is between 11-14% of prairie left remaining in Saskatchewan, maintaining and managing this valuable resource is important.
Prairie is made up of intricate networks of plant species, wildlife, birds, insects, and even invisible soil microbes, and all the different parts fit together like pieces in a puzzle. Prairie grassland is both diverse and practical, providing forage for livestock and habitat for wildlife and pollinators. Prairie also provides valuable services for agriculture and the environment, such as carbon sequestration, nutrient filtering, water
retention, and sediment trapping.
Once native prairie has been changed or dug up, or built upon, can it be restored? This is a hard question that will be addressed at the 8th Native Prairie Restoration/ Reclamation Workshop hosted by the Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan (SK PCAP). The conference theme is “Restoration and Reclamation in a Changing Environment: Adapting to Change, Building Resilience,” and is happening Monday, February 1 through Friday, February 5, 2021.
Renny Grilz, a Resource Management Officer with the Meewasin Valley Authority, is a member of the organizing committee as well as a presenter. Reclaiming a natural prairie site is different than restoring it,
Prairie restoration experts: Reclaiming and restoring prairie after road construction or energy sector development takes time, however proper planning will optimize the outcome.
Grilz says. “Reclamation is putting an equivalent land cover back on the site post-disturbance,” he explains. “Reclamation is the first step but restoration is the next step,
when you are actually trying to bring back some of the natural ecological processes and a higher level of biodiversity to the site,” Grilz adds. This long-running
event has gained credibility with its capacity to provide timely information on urgent challenges that affect a variety of prairie stakeholders.
“This year we have a couple of topics on orphan wells, which is an emerging issue with some of the federal and provincial programs that are available,” Grilz explains. Presenters will be talking about programs to restore abandoned oil and gas well sites on native prairie in both Alberta and Saskatchewan, a problematic issue landowners and experts say needs attention.
Other topics that will be covered include climate change, rangeland resilience, invasive species management, seed testing, Indigenous conservation strategies, and plant species selection. Grilz will share his insight on incorporating unique resources during restoration planning.
“Get outside of standard text books or training manuals,” he says. “It’s more about thinking outside the box, looking for new information and new methods like incorporating traditional Indigenous knowledge, or using citizen science,” he adds.
This unique workshop is one of the longest running events of its kind.
Grilz says he is seeing multiple generations par-
ticipate in the conference.
“You’re now seeing second and third generation family groups attending,” he explains. “As people are retiring there are new people coming in as well, and there is a continuity of knowledge being transferred.”
For the first time, this leading conference will be delivered through a virtual platform. While going online has been a new experience for the established event, there have been some unexpected benefits. Creating connections and building networks has always been a major strength of the conference. “From academics to non-government organizations, to landowners, to government agencies, to the energy and mining sector, to producers, this event brings together a wide range of stakeholders and interests,” Grilz explains. “Going virtual allows other people to join the conference that wouldn’t have been able to otherwise,” he says. Remote attendance has also enabled the group to access additional experts and presenters from further away.
Anyone interested in learning more about the upcoming event can visit www.pcap-sk.org .
On February 12-13, the Eston 95 Lions club hosts an online draw as a fundraiser for their club. This event is in place of the “Fancy Cake Bingo” that the 95 Lions put on each year during the annual Santa Claus Day. In December, Santa Claus Day is usually held at the Eston AGT Community Centre but could not go ahead in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. Since the club’s biggest fundraisers, donations have been down, Ladies Night Out, which happens annually in April, and Fancy Cake Bingo, have been cancelled this past year.
The new “Sweetheart Spin to Win” event will take place on the club’s Facebook Group Page. The club will be holding five separate draws during the two days and there is a chance to win a classic Fancy Cake Bingo type treat, but with a Valentine’s Day twist during
Facebook page can purchase a spot for each draw for $10. Each
draw has a maximum of 30 spots available.
The treats available to be won will be made by an Eston 95 Lion member, just as they would be for the cake bingo. Winners of the treats will be able to pick up or have their winnings delivered to them in Eston, in a safe, COVID-19 approved fashion.
For more information on each draw’s rules and regulations, please follow the Eston 95 Lions Facebook page and mark your calendars for February 12-13.
If you are not a Facebook user and cannot participate in the Sweetheart Spin to Win, the Eston 95 Lions would still graciously receive any monetary donations. Contact Lacey Owens at Lacey@ laceyowens.com or call 306-9626411. Cheques can be mailed to Eston 95 Lions Box 816 Eston, SK, S0L 1A0.
Welcome, Adrienne Mason! The new voice of Eston.
We are pleased to welcome aboard Adrienne Mason as our new Eston correspondent!
Adrienne moved to Eston approximately ten years ago to come to the Eston Bible College where she graduated with a BA. Her family ended up staying as they loved the small town lifestyle and it is a great place to raise their seven-year-old son.
Adrienne currently homeschools her son, works casually for the Town of Eston and she also silversmithscreating her own small jewelry business.
We encourage residents to let Adrienne know what’s going on in Eston.
She can be reached at 306-962-2209 or email at agemason@gmail.com
each draw. Followers of the 95 Lions
WEEK OF JANUARY 24 TO 30, 2021
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
ARIES
After a few celebrations, your house might feel like it’s been turned upside down, so you’ll quickly set about restoring order. A major cleaning is needed, and you’ll unclutter your mind in the process.
TAURUS
You won’t hesitate to speak your mind and voice your concerns when others won’t. You might also write a poem or express something that ends up being quoted around the world, much to your surprise.
GEMINI
You’ll be worried about a financial issue. It’s probably just a simple mistake though, such as a bill addressed to the wrong person. You’ll soon be smiling again, and your natural charisma will return.
CANCER
You’ll have a lot going on. Your loved ones will get you to participate in a few activities or at least succeed in getting you out of the house. You’ll be talked into signing up for a group course of some kind.
LEO
You’ll need a second cup of coffee to feel like yourself and do away with procrastination. Afterward, you’ll become incredibly effective at kickstarting new projects and achieving certain goals.
VIRGO
Sure-Fire Streaming:
The best in TV and film from your living room
In the middle of a crowd, you won’t always know how to push your way through it. At work, your boss, clients or colleagues will frequently seem uncertain and make a lot of vague requests.
LIBRA
BY JORDAN PARKER https://parkerandpictures.wordpress.com/
Superstore – Available On Netflix
I don’t think a sitcom has made me laugh this hard since The Office.
This comedy follows a group of quirky employees day-in, day-out as they work through even weirder customers at a big-box store.
The incredible America Ferrera – of Ugly Betty fame – stars here with an eclectic ensemble cast who you will love (or grow to love) as time goes on.
Three-time Emmy nominee and series creator Justin Spitzer captures the both the agony of a minimum wage job and the little pleasures that get you through your day.
It’s truly a gem of a show, and five seasons dropped on Netflix at the same time. Sounds like you have your weekend set.
Cut Throat City – Available On Netflix
Set in a post-Katrina New Orleans, this high-octane thriller will grip you and not let go.
As people flounder trying to dig themselves out of the wreckage of a broken city, four men go to extreme lengths to make some money.
The childhood friends form an unlikely alliance with a crime syndicate leader to pull off a casino heist, but things go horribly awry and they try to find a way to get out of the mess they’ve put themselves in.
The four central performances are serviceable, but it’s really the incredible talent around them that propels this movie.
With T.I. as a murderous kingpin, Terrence Howard as a mob boss, Ethan Hawke as a crooked politician, and Wesley Snipes as a father trying to protect his
son, the pedigree of this cast is pushed to new heights.
It’s a mile-a-minute thriller directed by none other than Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA, and it’s a directorial effort I won’t soon forget.
Knives Out – Available On Prime Video
This splendid little riff on Clue is viciously funny and a top-notch mystery film, where the ride is just as important as the truth.
When the family patriarch dies during a family reunion, everyone is a suspect.
A detective is brought in to question the difficult family and find some answers.
But nothing is as it seems, and everyone has a motive for getting the old man out of the way.
Writer-director Rian Johnson delivers one of the absolute best movies of 2019, a slick film with a sick sense of humour and an incredible screenplay.
The ensemble cast is top-notch with a heavily-accented Daniel Craig as an inspector leading the charge.
He’s joined by Lakeith Stanfield, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, Chris Evans, Christopher Plummer, Michael Shannon and more in an incredible film. But it’s newcomer Ana de Armas who manages to steal most of the spotlight.
You quite literally can’t go wrong with this film, and anyone 16+ will get a total kick out of it.
The Negotiator – Available On Prime Video Is there really an actor more fun to watch these days than Samuel L. Jackson?
I revisited this 1998 thriller for the first time in nearly 15 years, and it holds up. The Negotiator is an action-packed spectacle, and a huge showcase for Jackson.
WEEK OF JANUARY 31 TO FEBRUARY 6, 2021
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: SAGITTARIUS, CAPRICORN AND AQUARIUS
ARIES
Negotiating with people you love is always a delicate matter. You’ll be much more vulnerable if you let your emotions get involved. Try to take a step back so you can see the situation clearly.
TAURUS
Professional success is just around the corner. You’ll manage to gather a large group of people for a particular event, and you’ll benefit from great discounts that’ll allow you to increase your profits.
GEMINI
Your passions will be awakened, your mind will be filled with great ideas and all eyes will be on you. You’ll be enthusiastically applauded, and you’ll receive a medal or other type of award.
CANCER
You’ll find yourself spending most of your time at home or in the company of family members. Someone might ask you to take on some pretty hefty responsibilities.
LEO
Bargaining during your next shopping trip could be advantageous. You only need to raise your voice slightly to be heard and respected. Don’t hesitate to express your emotions out loud.
VIRGO
Exercise is great for your health when done in moderation. You’ll find people with whom you can enjoy an inspirational activity and discuss your spirituality.
LIBRA
At work, you’ll be entitled to a significant promotion. Before you agree to anything, however, it’s vital that you talk it over with your partner and the rest of your family to avoid any misunderstandings.
Though I’m not in the habit of watching Kevin Spacey fare these days, the work by so many other fantastic film industry folks here makes this worth a recommend.
SCORPIO
Jackson stars as a hostage negotiator who becomes a hostage taker when he suspects Internal Affairs is setting him up for the murder of his partner – who himself was uncovering a conspiracy in the department.
The winter blues are setting in and beginning to affect you more and more. It won’t be long before you start planning a vacation somewhere tropical. Good times ahead will reenergize you.
SAGITTARIUS
As he attempts to prove his innocence, Jackson’s character takes hostages in a government office while he tries to gather evidence, but he’s pitted against fellow negotiator Spacey and cops on the case who might want him dead to keep their own secrets.
You’ll be very sensitive, and your emotions might play tricks on you. You’ll shed some light on a nefarious affair at work or possibly within the family.
CAPRICORN
This will be a hectic week, especially if you have young children or an active social life. As for matters of the heart, you might experience a lot of passion while on a trip or romantic getaway.
SCORPIO
The harsh winter weather could start to dampen your spirits. Fortunately, now’s an excellent time to fire up your imagination and create a work of art.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll find yourself surrounded by many people in situations that might be quite stressful or scary at times. Some down time before the end of the week will be crucial to recharge your batteries.
CAPRICORN
This is over two hours of pure brilliance, and it’s a masterclass by Samuel L. Jackson. A must-watch 90s flick.
State Of Play – Available On Netflix
You’ll need to hone your negotiation skills, both in your personal and professional life. You have everything you need to reach a lasting agreement that will impact the rest of your career.
AQUARIUS
We don’t get many journalism thrillers these days, but there’s really nothing better than a flick about uncovering a big story.
You’ll find yourself the focus of everyone’s attention, which will make you very happy. You might also receive a reward or possibly some kind of promotion at work.
Maybe I’m biased, but State Of Play is a well-acted, involving thriller that you’ll find yourself pretty invested in.
PISCES
If your health is the least bit fragile these days, it would be a good idea to take some time to rest. Fortunately, the sleep you get will be incredibly restorative, and you’ll quickly recover your strength.
When a congressional aide is murdered, a Washington journalist starts poking around, and his search leads him to an investigation of a college friend, who’s now a government representative.
This is perhaps one of Ben Affleck’s best roles earlier in his career, but he’s no match for Russell Crowe’s grizzled journalist. With Rachel McAdams on-board as a tenacious young reporter, this one has a ton of upside.
It’s a really great thriller and one not enough people saw upon release. Let’s try to fix
now.
You’ll likely be given some very important new responsibilities at work. You’ll be greatly appreciated, and people will go out of their way to do business with you because you’re someone who can be trusted.
AQUARIUS
You’ll feel the desire to travel and explore. You’ll be inspired by new adventures, each one more fantastic than the last. You might consider signing up for a training course.
PISCES
Your emotions might run high if you experience a turbulent financial situation. Fortunately, a solution will quickly present itself and you’ll soon be back on the path to stability and success.
Your West Central
Classifieds
RATES (based on 20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday noon. 306-671-0242 FEED & SEED
350 bushels of cleaned andante mustard seed. 98% germination. (35 bushel totes) Acadia Valley 403664-0004. FB8p
200 large square oat green feed bales. Approx. 1300 lbs. Acadia Valley 403-6640004. FB8p FOR RENT
ROOMS FOR RENT.
$500. Includes all utilities. Call Tim Schuh at 306460-9292.
WANTED
WANTED TO BUYHunting Rifles, Shotguns and Ammunition. Have permits. Call 463-7756 (Cell). MR29
RATES (based on 20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday at noon. Call Kate at 306463-2211.
Description of Property Total of approximately 145 cultivated acres
Location Rural Municipality of Milton #292
Assessment 182,000
AND
Legal Description NE 1/4 4-29-27 W3
Description of Property Total of approximately 160 cultivated acres.
Location Rural Municipality of Milton #292
Assessment 149,200
AND
Legal Description SE 1/4 4-29-27 W3
Description of Property Total of approximately 160 cultivated acres.
Location Rural Municipality of Milton #292
Assessment 160,000
Lease Term 3 years Rent Payable 1/2 March 15th and balance October 31st in each year
Conditions of Tender:
1. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
2. Bids are to indicate if they are for individual quarters or for a package of quarters.
3. Preference will be given to bids for a package of quarters.
4. The Lessees must rely on their own research and inspection of the property.
5. All tenders must be accompanied by a certified cheque for the first rental payment plus GST.
6. Tenders to lease must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on February 22, 2021.
7. Formal Lease Agreement to be signed.
8. Tenders should be sent to:
Ard Law Office
Barrister and Solicitor Box 1898 KINDERSLEY, SK S0L 1S0 and marked with file number R12365
LAND FOR SALE BY SEALED TENDER
Under the provision of The Tax Enforcement Act the Town of Eston offers for sale the following land: Lot 1 Block 6 Plan AK3267 301 Main Street
The Town of Eston is now accepting tenders from interested parties for the sale of the above land acquired through tax collection. The Town of Eston reserves the right to reject any or all bids received. Tender packages can be picked up at the Town of Eston, Box 757, Eston SK S0L 1A0. For more information contact the Town of Eston at (306) 962-4444.
The deadline for receipt of tenders is Tuesday February 16 at 5:00pm. Tenders should be marked “PROPERTY TENDER/LAND TENDER”
Farmland
For Sale By Tender
RM of Snipe Lake
SE-7-27-20-W3
Any or highest tender not necessarily accepted. Tender closes February 15, 2021. Forward tenders to Scott Reeves at jsreeves65@gmail.com
LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
Sealed tenders will be received by Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law of Consort and Oyen until the deadline of 4:00 p.m. on February 18, 2021, for the sale of the following Land:
1. Section 34-30-29-W3 2. W ½ 27-30-29-W3
3. W ½ 26-30-29-W3 4. S ½ 22-30-29-W3
5. W ½ 15-30-29-W3 6. W ½ 23-30-29-W3
7. E ½ 27-30-29-W3 (home ¼ is SE)
• 1,874 total acres - 1,624 of which are cultivated (GPS measurement)
• 180 acres of pasture with very good water
• Yard site contains: 2 homes (1,200 and 800 sq ft); heated barn (30 x 50); heated shop (32 x 48); large machine shed (70 x 120); small machine shed (40 x 60); 38,000 bu of bin space (17,500 bu has aeration)
Land is located 4 miles south of Loverna, SK directly on the AB/SK border.
Tenders on the Land must be accompanied by a certified cheque, bank draft, or electronic transfer in favor of “Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law” for $20,000.00 as a deposit. The deposit will be returned if the tender is not accepted. If a tender is accepted and the tenderer does not proceed with the sale, the deposit of the tenderer will be forfeited to the owner. The balance of the tender price shall be paid and the sale will close no later than March 19th, 2021. The owner and the successful tenderer will each be responsible for their own legal fees. Each tenderer must understand that a tender is an unconditional offer to purchase the Shares/Land set out in the tender. Tenderers must rely on their own research of the Lands, and Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law and the owner make no warranties or representations in regard to the Lands.
The Vendor requests bids for a share purchase whereby the Purchaser buys the vendor’s corporation which maintains only the lands and assets listed above. The Home Quarter is personally owned and will be sold as well. Share purchase tenders will be given significant preference over land purchase tenders. Should a potential purchaser require further information or have questions regarding a share sale, please contact the Vendor’s lawyer, Reid Wilkie at the number below.
The owner has complete discretion whether to accept the highest or any tender. Further inquiries, or to arrange viewing the lands, can be made by contacting Reid Wilkie at (403) 577-2539 or reid@smithhersey.com. Tenders may be emailed or sealed in an envelope marked “LAND TENDER” and delivered to:
Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law
Attention: Reid A. Wilkie
Box 95 Consort, AB, T0C 1B0 Phone: 403.527.5506 or 403.664.2812
Email: reid@smithhersey.com
In person to Reid Wilkie in Consort every Wednesday In person to Reid Wilkie in Oyen every Thursday
Farmland for Cash Rent
R.M. of Kindersley #290 - Approx. 450 cultivated acres
NE-2-30-22-W3
SE-2-30-22-W3
SW-1-30-22-W3
Conditions of Offers:
1. All offers to be submitted on or before February 18, 2021.
2. Highest or any offers not necessarily accepted.
3. Contract will be cash rent for a period of 3 years. 100% of the rent will be due on or before April 30 of each year.
4. Please forward all bids and inquiries to: Box 1076, Kindersley, SK. S0L 1S0. Call 306-463-7572.
Kindersley RCMP request assistance in locating a wanted male
On January 18th, 2021, Kindersley RCMP investigated a theft where a suspect was identified through video surveillance.
Upon approaching the suspect’s residence for further investigation, the suspect fled on foot. A foot chase ensued, but police were unable to apprehend the male. Neighbourhood enquiries and further enquiries have not yet led to the suspects apprehension. Kindersley RCMP are requesting the public’s assistance in locating 22-year-old Austin Heid who is currently wanted by police for Theft Under $5000, Section 334(B) of the Criminal Code as well as Obstructing a Peace Officer, Section 129(A) of the Criminal Code. Austin Heid is described as 5’11”, approximately 159 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes.
In addition to this theft investigation, Kindersley RCMP responded to 61 calls for service during the past week which included, but was not limited to, three business break and enters, three suspicious persons calls as well as several collisions.
If you need to report any suspicious activity in your community, please contact the Kindersley RCMP detachment by calling 306-462-4642 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.
*For more information on the calls to service please contact the Kindersley RCMP detachment.
Developing a solid foundation for grain producers
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Responsible Grain is a national, voluntary code of practice that allows Canadian grain farmers to demonstrate their care and commitment to the environment. Ted Menzies, a farmer in Alberta, is the executive chair of Responsible Grain, a group developed by farmers and industry experts. The code of practice demonstrates how Canadian farms preserve land, air and water. It incorporates nutrient management, pest and pesticide management, soil and water management and health and well-being. Implementation of the practices will be measured over time using the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops (CRSC) Metrics Platform to promote continuous improvement.
Ted Menzies said, “I’ve been a farmer for over 30 years. Farmers are part of the building process. It’s time for the code of practice to be developed. It’s time for farmers to show that they are acting responsibly. Farmers live in the middle of the environment. We’re on the ground. We depend on the soil to
grow our crops, depend on rainfall, irrigation, on making sure we don’t let our soil become eroded.”
Consultations started in November of 2020 on the CRSC draft code of practice for Canadian grain farmers. The goal of Responsible Grain is to build trust among consumers and grain customers.
Consultations on the draft code began on Nov. 24., but more talks needed to be scheduled as more people began to register. Over 550 registrations were received, 90 percent of which were farmers and producers wanting to provide feedback on what will or will not work on their farm and considerations for the diversity in farming throughout Canada.
The companies and organizations represented on the code committee include Cargill, Viterra, CropLife Canada, Aramark and Ducks Unlimited. Menzies said the code committee’s objective is to find actions farmers can take that will be recognized by supply chain partners and consumers.
Menzies, who has served as an MP for nine years, recalls meeting with
LAND FOR RENT
The following land is available for cash rental. Interested parties may submit bids until February 18, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.
Please submit bids to: Steve & Colleen Lee - Box 1445 - Kindersley, Sask. S0L 1S0
RM of Oakdale
Section 3-31-22 W3
S 1/2 11-31-22 W3 E 1/2 9-31-22 W3 SW 4-31-22 W3
Interested parties responsible for their own inspection. Accepted tenders will be notified by February 22, 2021. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
Obituary
IRWIN – With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend John Clifford Irwin on January 23, 2021. John was born on January 29, 1944 in Eston, Saskatchewan to Clifford and Biddy (Jones) Irwin. He grew up in Kindersley, SK where the family owned and operated Irwin’s Store for Men. John excelled at carpentry and
Chinese officials a couple of years ago and discussing restrictions on Canadian canola, which is one example of why the code would be valuable. That is when he realized the importance of showing the protocols that farmers follow in Canada.
It was noted that governments are more likely to put regulations in place where they see a gap. A Code will help prove that there are no gaps. The draft code will include already mandated protocols through federal, provincial and municipal regulations.
“We’re going to listen, and we’re going to learn from what farmers say because if farmers don’t like this, and this isn’t going to work on your farm, and we’ve said this is voluntary, you’re not going to sign up.
So we have to make it, so this is functional,” said Menzies.
Once consultations are complete, the Code Development Committee will review each of the Code Practices in light of the feedback. The input provided during the consultations is critical. It will be used to review the code to ensure it is practical and widely adoptable by farmers.
Projections are to complete consultations by the end of March of this year. One of the tweets said if farmers write their code and it is endorsed by researchers, suppliers, grain buyers and processors, it could be a solid foundation to work from if the government ever came at farmers with regulations.
conversation. He developed a love of farming and community living after spending many days on the farm with his great Uncle Ernie and Aunt Fannie Irwin. John married Margaret Diane Card in 1965. They made a permanent move to the family farm north of Snipe Lake in 1973. John served many years on the RM of Snipe Lake as a councillor for Division 6 and was a member of the Kindersley Elks Lodge No. 492. Throughout the years he contributed to countless community projects. John lived, worked and led with integrity and the exceptional quality of his craftmanship was unmistakable.
John’s greatest pride was in his family. He is survived by his beloved
wife of 55 years, Margaret; children and grandchildren; Jeffrey (Wendy) Irwin, Shelby (Ian) Blocha, Matthew; Shawn (Janice) Irwin, Jordan, Cody, McKenna; William Irwin, Broderick, Kohltyn, Slade, Karsynn; Douglas (Amanda) Irwin, Lucas, Hudson; Melanie (Ryan) Cey, Alistir; one sister Maryanne; as well as many cousins and friends. The Irwin family will hold a private graveside service. We would like to extend our gratitude to all those who provided care for John over the past several weeks.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial donations in John’s name may do so to Holy Cross Anglican Church, Box 866 Eston, SK, S0L 1A0.
Montanna Meyer (right), Relationship Manager of Eston / Eatonia PCCU, presented Lorne Johnson, President of the Wheatland Plus Fifty Club with a $1000 donation. To date, about $4000 has been donated to the Club. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Natural gas leak at Leader
The Town of Leader was alerted to a suspected gas leak in the downtown core last Wednesday afternoon. Businesses and residences close to the area were evacuated.
SaskEnergy crews were in the community to locate the source of the leak and once that was determined, residents that were evacuated earlier in the day were able to return home.
The intersection of Highways 21 & 32 and 1st Avenue at Leader was closed due to a natural gas leak.
SaskEnergy was drilling some test holes to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. There was no imminent danger to the public, but residents were asked to avoid the area to allow SaskEnergy to work. The crews were working around the clock and were doing everything they could to find the source.
Leader RCMP closed the intersection of Highways 21 and 32 and 1st Avenue East to facilitate repairs to the natural gas pipeline. It will remain closed until the work is complete. The repairs were expected to last a few days.
Leader Badminton Club
The Leader Badminton Club had its first youth night last week and the sign up sheet was full!
It was a great way for the kids to get some activity and much needed exercise.
The Rural Municipality of Prairiedale No. 321 is seeking a Seasonal Grader Operator.
The successful candidate will meet the following criteria:
• Have willingness and aptitude to operate various pieces of equipment as required for the job assigned (Grader, tractor mower, gravel truck, etc.) or willingness to learn operation of the required equipment.
• Have knowledge of servicing and maintaining various equipment
• Valid Driver’s License
• Have a working knowledge of grading and maintenance or the willingness to learn
• Must be capable of working within a group or with minimal to no immediate supervision
• Attention to detail, safety conscious, and ability to take direction from Supervisors
Duties may include but not limited to:
• Operating grader and various other pieces of equipment
• Assisting in road maintenance and repairs
• Installing culverts
• Any other tasks assigned by the Supervisor with the direction of Council
Employment proposed start date is May, 2021. The R.M. of Prairiedale offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package including the Municipal Employees Pension Plan (MEPP).
Applicants are invited to submit a resume by February 8, 2021 by 4 p.m. to:
