OBSERVER
Lampman author
Maureen
Ulrich explores Kenyan conservation and culture in new novel for children
Local writer Maureen Ulrich invites readers on a transformative voyage through Kenya in her latest novel, Kimeto’s Journey, a middle-grade book capturing the adventure and challenges of an 11-year-old Maasai boy on a mission to save an orphaned elephant. The book was released in midOctober.
Known previously for her works in youth and young adult fiction, Ulrich has crafted this story for younger readers aged eight to 12, blending real-world conservation themes with the vivid backdrop of Kenya’s landscapes.
Ulrich, a Lampman-based author, was first inspired to write the book after a visit to Kenya in 2014, when her daughter was interning with the African Confederation of Co-operative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA).
“As a mom, I figured after
three weeks she was probably going to hit some kind of a wall of, ‘Wow, I’m here for six months,’” Ulrich recalled.
So she boarded a plane and spent two weeks with her daughter, immersing herself in the culture, wildlife and complex issues of conservation.
One of her first stops in Kenya was the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, a sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants whose mothers have been killed by poachers.
“I was very inspired by seeing the type of work they did,” she said.
When they are about four years old, elephants are sent back to herds in parks like Amboseli, which Ulrich also visited during her trip.
The experience sparked the initial idea for Kimeto’s Journey, which follows Kimeto, a Maasai boy who rescues an elephant calf and sets off on a journey across Kenya to make sure the animal is safe. Ulrich’s experiences at the sanctuary and visits to a Maasai village helped her build the foundation for Kimeto’s story.
For Ulrich, the project was about much more than storytelling.
“What a privilege it was to spend a little time in Kenya, which faces the challenge of balancing the demands of a growing population with conservation of wildlife and wildlife habitat,” she said. “It is my sincere wish that I have accurately and fairly depicted these challenges, as well as the magnificence of the animals and landscape, and the generous spirit of the Kenyan people.”
Ulrich’s firsthand experiences brought authenticity to the novel, but she was mindful of the cultural sensitivities involved in writing about Maasai culture from an outsider’s
perspective. To ensure accuracy, she consulted Nairobibased cultural advisor Jean Wandimi, who reviewed her work and provided extensive feedback.
“I’d been looking for 10 years for someone who would be my sensitivity reader,” Ulrich said, noting that this process was essential for the book’s integrity. “From the point of view of an 11-year-old Maasai boy, that’s not my cultural experience, so I needed to make sure that I was being accurate.”
Writing Kimeto’s Journey also marked a creative shift for Ulrich, who typically writes longer works for teens and young adults. With just 100 pages, the novel is designed to engage young readers, spark-
ing their curiosity about the wider world. She also noted that her new book challenges young readers to consider complex social and environmental issues.
“The story means a lot to me, because there’s a lot of questions that are asked in the book, and it’s really up to the reader, a young reader, to decide how they feel about some issues. It’s not black and white. It’s complex.”
The plot of Kimeto’s Journey begins as Kimeto and his sisters walk to school and discover a dead elephant, left behind by poachers. In a nearby unfinished well, they find a trapped baby elephant. The young Maasai boy takes action, rescuing the calf, which is then taken to the Nairobi
Elephant Sanctuary. When he learns the elephant might not survive without its mother, Kimeto sets out alone, determined to see his new friend through the journey.
“He is changed by the journey, but he also changes the people around him,” Ulrich said.
As an ex-educator, Ulrich was particularly impressed by the Kenyan students and teachers she met during her travels, observing their determination to learn and teach despite limited resources. Her respect for the students’ perseverance inspired many of the character traits in Kimeto.
Ulrich’s book Kimeto’s Journey is available at Henders Drugs, through herself, and online via Amazon.
Lampman writer Maureen Ulrich released a new book Kimeto’s Journey inspired by her experience in Kenya.
Kimeto’s Journey, a book about a Maasai boy and an elephant, is available at Henders Drugs, through author Maureen Ulrich and on Amazon.
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Ten fun facts about Carlyle’s Dickens Festival
By Michele Amy
“Twenty-one years? I’m surprised that the Dickens Village Festival is still going!” How many times has Shelley Slykhuis and the rest of the committed Dickens committee heard that comment around town?
Scheduled for Dec. 6 and 7, the festival is still going strong with a combination of dedicated experienced volunteers, alongside fresh new people on the committee and a strong enthusiasm for the community spirit which this festival generates.
What fun it is to have so many diverse elements of our local community come together on this weekend to visit, share time together, catch up, dress up and get into the community Christmas spirit – even if it is one filled with bah humbugs. In a town with so many diverse clubs and organizations, the Dickens Village Festival really brings the whole group together. The costumes, the great shopping, the wonderful street food, the family-focused events, the affordable entertain-
ment, lighted parade and tons of candy – what else can go right?
Here are ten fun facts which might not be common knowledge.
•This festival was originally started by the local economic development agency under the leadership of Judy Riddell. Judy got the idea by attending the Dickens festival in Garrison, N.D., which is now entering its 30th year. The Carlyle Dickens Village Festival, the only one of its kind in Canada, is now entering its 21st year and is run solely by community volunteers.
•Over 17 service groups, clubs and local organizations use the Dickens festival as one of their primary fundraisers for the year.
mics, children’s specialty entertainment – all for free.
•All funds generated by the festival stay in the community.
•The entire festival is funded by the proceeds of the Dickens sale of donated used items which takes over the local hall twice yearly and is coordinated and manned by an army of volunteers, as well as generous donations from businesses and grants from the Town of Carlyle and the Bear Claw Casino.
This year, in a grand shift of direction, Cornerstone Theatre is staging an adaptation of a different classic with its offering of It’s a Wonderful Hockey Life. One of the biggest complaints about the festival each year by tourists is that the play sells out and they cannot get tickets.
tured on Sesame Street and has won two Juno Awards as a children’s entertainer. And let’s not forget the family dance, the horse-drawn carriage rides and Instagram opportunities.
•All of the proceeds from Cornerstone’s Dickens production and the Fezzywig pub are reinvested into the renovations and the upkeep of the Carlyle Memorial Hall and Theatre, with 10 per cent of ticket sales also being donated to the local food bank.
•In 2024, the festival will highlight 100 per cent local musicians from over 11 different communities in the southeast corner including White Bear First Nations, Langbank, Kenosee Lake, Forget, Carlyle, Alida, Alameda, Weyburn and Lampman, with some Ochapawace First Nations and Regina connections thrown in there. Live music, interactive dances, open
•Cornerstone Theatre Inc. has now adapted and presented 20 versions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which has included locally written and produced versions, as well as many professional adaptations.
•In 2024, the children of southeast Saskatchewan communities are being included in the festival in an active role. The Dickens committee is partnering with the Kenosee Lake Kitchen Party to organize a children’s Christmas concert production where children work with amazing local artist Jacquie Walbaum to stage a musical production. This short show will be staged for audiences in the Fezzywig’s hall on Dec. 7 after the free family breakfast with Santa Claus, before the Al Simmons free concert in the theatre. Yes, Al Simmons who has been fea-
•One of the stated goals of the Dickens Festival is to give back to our local business community, as the local businesses are so generous all year long with their contributions of money, goods, discounts and sponsorships for all of the local clubs, schools and organizations. To this end, the festival has attracted approximately six bus tours each year, bringing shoppers and tourists to the town of Carlyle, as well as encouraging the local and surrounding communities to shop within our own community.
•In 2019, Shelley Slykhuis and the Catholic Church have now made over 640 gallons of chowder (or to translate for those who think metric - 2422 liters of chowder) for the Dickens Festival. This computes to over 19,381 cups of chowder. We have not done the 2024 math, but all those years adds up to a chowchow of chowder. Don’t miss out. Be sure to mark Dec. 6 and 7 on your calendar.
The Cornerstone Theatre produces sold-out shows each year during the festival. File photo
Chasing Yesterday photographer captures forgotten spaces in southeast Saskatchewan
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Southeast Saskatchewan recently welcomed a visitor with a unique mission: to capture the beauty of abandoned spaces scattered across the southeast Saskatchewan landscape.
Artist and historian Susan Smith Brazill, founder of the popular Facebook page Chasing Yesterday, spent several days exploring rural locales. With 55,000 followers captivated by her evocative images, Smith Brazill seeks to preserve the stories embedded in forgotten places.
“I have a deep connection to forgotten spaces — remnants of the past in the vast expanse of the Saskatchewan landscape,” she shared in her artist statement. “Chasing Yesterday photography embodies a quest for memory, history and the beauty found in the forgotten, all intricately tied to the endless skies of the prairie. It’s about the stories waiting to be discovered and shared.”
Known for her thoughtful and nostalgic photographs, Smith Brazill is passionate about capturing the remnants of history, whether it’s an abandoned farmhouse or a solitary grain elevator against the prairie sky. Her images often feature weathered barns, stoic churches and rusting vehicles that once served as vital tools for a way of life now fading
Smith Brazill says she always had an interest in Saskatchewan’s southeastern region, and her recent trip only deepened her admiration.
“The … area, with its rugged landscape and unique geological formations, offers a distinct contrast to the rest of the province,” she explained.
For her, each location in this part of Saskatchewan holds a special allure, from “the vast, open prairies, gentle rolling hills, and sprawling farmland” to the scattered wetland areas that attract migratory birds.
“Exploring areas like
Frobisher, Outram, Torquay, Bromhead and Alameda has left a lasting impression,” Smith Brazill said. “Each quiet road, each fading structure, and each solitary tree in a field had a story embedded in it.”
Her photographs capture the stark beauty of isolated trees, “creating a sense of space and solitude” and the endless skies, “expansive, giving dramatic views of weather patterns.”
Smith Brazill’s fascination with abandoned spaces is rooted in her personal history and her lifelong curiosity about place and memory. Born into a military family, she grew up moving frequently and developed a strong sense of curiosity about the stories places hold.
“When I settled in Saskatchewan, I was struck by how much history was embedded in these seemingly empty prairies,”
she said. “Abandoned buildings, in particular, seemed to hold echoes of the lives and dreams of those who once inhabited them”
Each photograph represents more than a snapshot; it is a testament to the emotions these places evoke.
“Exploring these spaces often brings out a mix of emotions for me: nostalgia, a sense of peace and a bit of melancholy,” she reflected. “There’s a gentle reminder of impermanence in these abandoned structures, which brings a certain beauty and gravity to my work. Standing in these spaces, I feel grounded in a way that’s hard to explain – it’s like I’m temporarily transported back to a simpler time, one where the pace was slower, and life was intertwined with the land.”
Smith Brazill sees her work as a way to preserve the memory of
these places, especially as many structures are unlikely to remain standing much longer.
Smith Brazill’s dedication to capturing forgotten spaces resonates strongly with her social media followers. Chasing Yesterday has become more than a photography page – it’s a community where people share memories and stories of similar places.
“Many people from Saskatchewan – and even from beyond – share their own memories or connections to similar places,” she said.
This shared appreciation, she believes, is what draws people to her work.
“There’s a sense of collective memory in these forgotten spaces, and I think my page helps others reconnect with pieces of their own history.”
Smith Brazill has been sharing images from her southeast trip on Chasing
Yesterday, where each post draws her followers into the quiet beauty of the region. For many, her images offer a nostalgic reminder of Prairie life, connecting viewers to the stories and histories
left behind in forgotten places.
“It’s bittersweet knowing that many of these structures may not stand much longer, and I see my photographs as a way to preserve their stories. There’s also joy in discovering beauty where others might only see decay.”
Her southeast journey is just the latest chapter in her ongoing mission to preserve and share Saskatchewan’s history, one photograph at a time. Through Chasing Yesterday, Smith Brazill continues to inspire her followers, encouraging them to reflect on the importance of “honouring our roots, even in the quietest, most forgotten corners of the prairie.”
Chasing Yesterday has achieved considerable recognition internationally for the quality of its photos, and is regularly published on internationally-curated photography platforms. Chasing Yesterday photos have been featured on social media, as reference for artists, as book covers, and received accolades on numerous provincial, national and international photography contests and online platforms.
For more pictures, visit Chasing Yesterday’s Facebook page or website at www.chasingyesterdaysk.ca.
Alameda was among the communities visited by Susan Smith Brazill during her recent visit to the southeast. Photo by Susan Smith Brazill
When the bugle sounds
Stephanie Zoer
Just a few words
Every time I go to a Remembrance Day service, and I hear the sound of the bugle, I get a lump in my throat, and I remember the stories that my parents told me about the Second World War.
For as long as I can remember, we dressed up and went to the Remembrance Day service as a family, as my parents were so grateful for their freedom.
My parents were born and raised in the Netherlands and when the war broke out, they were in their late teens.
My dad was 18 years old when the Germans invaded Holland, and he said the sound was something he would never forget. Mom was 15 years old, and she too shared some of her thoughts on the happenings during that time.
Dad ended up in a concentration camp for about one year. He said he was not in the worst one, as some were better than others. He was stripped of his clothing, beaten and given the bare minimum of food. They were given little to wear, as this kept them from trying to escape.
They had to work at these camps and dad’s job, along with the others, was to peel potatoes to feed the German Army. If they were caught eating a raw potato, they were beaten or the person beside them was shot.
We were told the so-called mild stories from those days, as dad said we would never sleep if we knew the horrible things that he witnessed.
Mom remembers evenings when the sirens went off, with the Nazis coming down their street to stop in front of homes, and she watched through a crack of light. The rule was for the lights to be off at 6 p.m. Often they huddled in the back room with a candle burning so they could read, maybe play a game, or do some mending.
It was during these times that my mom became an excellent seamstress, as clothing was scarce and getting a piece of material was unheard of, so she took old trench coats and made them into a suit jacket or a pair of pants without using a pattern, as that was considered a luxury.
The most horrifying story my mom told me was when her neighbours were expecting a child. The man hired a Jewish midwife to deliver his baby. When the baby was born, the sirens came flying down the street. Mom said they were terrified as the vehicle stopped in front of their house. The soldiers got out and took the Jewish woman from the neighbour’s house. After the war it was found that the man was a German spy.
Mom never knew who the Jewish woman was, but she remembered her.
Every time I go to a Remembrance Day service and the bugle sounds, I think of that Jewish woman, who was giving life to a child and lost hers because of it.
My parents immigrated to Canada in 1949, and they never skipped this important day to remember the people who lost their lives.
Today I still go to the services out of respect for my parents who are no longer here, and out of respect for the men and women who gave their lives so we can live the way we do today.
If we look around the world today, there are still so many countries that live in a battle zone, and many of those people have come to Canada so they can live a life of freedom, but many of them still have family back in the war zones.
We have no reason to complain about our country, as we live a life of freedom.
“Action without vision is only passing time, vision without action is merely day dreaming, but vision with action can change the world.”
That’s what freedom looks like
It was Nov. 9, 2020, and we awoke to a huge dump of snow. Driving to work was difficult and once we got to our building there was no good place to park without getting stuck.
It wasn’t an uncommon situation for these parts, but this was no ordinary day. It was civic election day – the day voters elect a mayor and town councillors.
Severe weather across the province caused communities everywhere to grapple with how to get polls open and give voters opportunity to cast their ballot. We weren’t just hampered by what the weather was doing. There was also a pandemic going on.
It’s perhaps not surprising that in the major cities in Saskatchewan, voter turnout was the lowest in 20 years.
I was so excited when I got to vote for the very first time. I have voted in every election since and will continue to do so as long as I am able.
Not everyone sees it the same way and to be honest it frustrates me that so many don’t make an effort to cast a ballot.
The day of the provincial election last week, as well as the days advanced polls were open, were lovely weather-wise in most places. We weren’t dealing with the aftermath of hurricanes or other natural disasters and yet Elections Saskatchewan said “just under 53 per cent of those eligible to cast a ballot in the 2024 provincial election did so, when it comes to advance polls, election day and personal care facility and homebound ballots.”
Less than 53 per cent. After mail-in ballots were counted the number came in at just under 56 per cent. Why so low?
Years ago I worked with a man who ensured everyone around him knew he refused to vote in any election. “My one vote doesn’t matter,” he would say, “so why should I waste my time?”
Tell that to all those who ran in American state elections between 1898 and 1992 where a candidate officially tied or won by one vote. In 2018, 88 state legislative elections were decided by less than half a per cent.
Some justify their decision not to vote by saying, “I don’t like any of the options. No one is worthy of my vote.” Well,
I guess that means it’s time to start collecting signatures and getting your name on the ballot next time around. If you don’t think you can run, encourage someone you believe has the right stuff for public office and assure them they have your support.
When we vote, we get to do so in peace and safety. It’s why it is so hard to read accounts of what is happening in other places. Like countries where women have the right to vote, yet many experience election-related violence and harassment. In some countries elections simply don’t happen, or only a small percentage of residents are given a vote. Or nations where police forces are accused of suppressing votes through roadside searches on election day, impounding vehicles and preventing people from continuing on to vote.
In a world where many are denied any opportunity to elect officials, or where individuals take risks to vote, it is important we make the effort to make our choice. We cannot treat this lightly or take it for granted. Our obligation is to protect this system by using it.
When we show up we are announcing our commitment to the democratic process that has been sacrificed for on
battlefields around the world. At the same time, forcing someone to vote is not an option. It is our choice to use the ballot box, or not. That’s what freedom looks like.
Four years ago I was concerned what might happen in our town in an important municipal election. But as we arrived to vote we saw a great sight. People were walking and skiing to the town hall. They weren’t about to let a dump of snow prevent them from voting. Main roads had been cleared but we heard stories of people picking up friends so that only one car was making the trip. Voting mattered – as it does in every election in which candidates work to earn our vote and become our elected officials at every level. Our next election takes place two days after Remembrance Day. On Nov. 11, we take time to reflect and remember. We set aside other activity so we might pay tribute to those who served to defend our values and freedoms. So with Remembrance Day coming just ahead of municipal elections, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the value we place in the process that preserves our democratic rights and freedoms, along with our gratitude to those who have sacrificed to establish and protect it. That’s my outlook.
- Nelson Mandela
Shelley Luedtke
Support for the lodge
The Carlyle Full Gospel Church donated the proceeds from its October lunch program to the Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge. President Jenny Geiger-Martel accepts a cheque for $260 from Carlyle Full Gospel Church pastor Rodney Cox. Photo sourced from the Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge Facebook page
GRAND OPENING
November is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Envision Counselling & Support Centre Inc. is committed to raising awareness about the pervasive issue of domestic violence within the region, Envision said in a news release on Oct. 31.
This important month serves as a reminder that violence is not confined to any one demographic; it touches lives across all ages, genders and backgrounds.
Erin Haaland, an interpersonal violence and abuse (IVA) counsellor, said: “As an IVA counsellor practising in Saskatchewan, I see firsthand the alarming reality that domestic violence affects far too many in our own communities. Statistically, women face higher rates of violence, but it is important to understand that men and other genderidentifying individuals can experience domestic violence as well. While many incidents remain unreported, the growing demand for support services highlights the urgent need for awareness and action.”
This is not just a women’s issue; it is a community issue that requires collective awareness and action, Envision continues. Domestic violence can lead to devastating emotional and physical consequences, and it often remains hidden behind closed doors. The goal at Envision Counselling and Support Centre this month is to shed light on this issue and provide accessible resources for those in need.
“Envision understands that anyone can be affected by unhealthy
relationships and the trauma of violence, whether directly or indirectly. We want to assure everyone living in the southeast that we are here to help,” Envision said.
Their agency offers free, confidential support services for those affected by violence or the potential for violence, as well as secondary survivors – those who support or are impacted by someone else’s experience with domestic violence.
Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. encourages anyone who feels trapped in an unhealthy relationship or who has been impacted by family violence to reach out to the office nearest you. Their trained
professionals are available to provide support, guidance and a safe space to talk about the challenges facing survivors and their loved ones.
“There is no shame in asking for help. Together, we can create a society where every individual feels safe and valued, and where domestic violence is no longer tolerated,” said Haaland.
For more information about Envision’s services or to schedule a confidential appointment, contact their office at 306-637-4004 or by email at support@envisioncounsellingcentre. com. You can also visit their website at www.envisioncounsellingcentre. com for resources and support.
Erin Haaland is an interpersonal violence and abuse counsellor. Photo courtesy of Envision Counselling & Support Centre Inc.
Carievale 4-H Club meets
The Carievale 4-H Beef Club held its second meeting of the season on Oct. 7. Members came together to talk about events they might want to do for this 4-H year. At this meeting, they also did an activity where the club members were put into groups and had to make mini corral systems for how they would raise their 4-H animals. The club’s rst bottle drive of the year was Oct. 19, and the club had a fully-stocked trailer and also a full truck load of empty bottles and cans. Photo courtesy of Cole Green
Elections will happen in southeast rural municipalities
There will be elections in a number of southeast Saskatchewan rural municipalities this fall.
The four-year terms for reeve, and councillors for Divisions 1, 3 and 5, will be decided in elections on Nov. 13. Councillors for Divisions 2, 4 and 6 will be elected in 2026.
One of the busiest locations in the southeast will be the RM of Tecumseh No. 65. There are three candidates for reeve: Christy Goudy, Jerry Wilkes and Zandra Slater.
In Division 1, Guy Russell and Mike Picard are up for councillor,
and in Division 5, Tanya Dubois and Richard Bowes are the candidates.
George Ingram (Division 3) was acclaimed. There will be an election for reeve in the RM of Argyle No. 1, with George Howden and John Rickman challenging for the role. Larry Redpath (Division 1), Krystyn Gillies (Division 3) and Sheldon Jeffrey (Division 5) have been acclaimed as councillors.
In the RM of Mount Pleasant No. 2, Terry MacFarlane and Rebecca Scott filed nomination papers for Div-
ision 3 councillor. Chad Baglole was acclaimed as reeve, and Clinton Taylor (Division 1) and Clint Paton (Division 5) were acclaimed as councillors.
In the RM of Enniskillen No. 3, an election will occur for Division 1 councillor, with Tyler Fitzpatrick, Yvonne Douglas and Leslie Logue as the candidates. Trevor Walls was acclaimed as reeve, while Richard Ryan Nielsen (Division 3) and Rae Wright (Division 5) were acclaimed as councillors.
In the RM of Storthoaks No. 31, Ivan
Moreau and Bernard Poirier are the candidates for division 5 councillor. Brian Chicoine was the lone candidate for reeve, and acclaimed councillors are Valbert Rekken (Division 1) and Dell Real (Division 5).
In the RM of Moose Mountain No. 63, Jessica Shirley and Jack Wilson are the candidates for Division 5 councillor. Kelly Brimner (reeve), Donald Boutin (Division 1) and Bryton Cann (Division 3) were acclaimed.
In the RM of Brock No. 64, Douglas Ilchuk and Gregory Johnston filed papers to be the
councillor for Division 5. Larry Gordon (reeve) and Lucas Hislop (Division 1) were acclaimed. Nobody filed papers for Division 3 during the first or second call for nominations, so a byelection will happen at a later date to fill the vacancy.
All candidates were acclaimed in the following RMs: Reciprocity No. 32: Steven Bendtsen (reeve), Roy Annetts (Division 1), Cheryl Harrison (Division 3) and Louis Gervais (Division 5).
Moose Creek No. 33: Kelvin Luedtke (reeve),
Jeremy Nielsen (Division 1), Kim Dietze (Division 3) and Edward Brown (Division 5). Browning No. 34: Pius Loustel (reeve), Richard Brokop (Division 1) and Brian Fornwald (Division 5). Two calls for nominations were issued for Division 3, but neither yielded a candidate. A byelection will be called to fill the vacancy at a later date.
Antler No. 61: Bernard Bauche (reeve), Edmond Aime (Division 1), Thomas Bastable (Division 3), Jordan Moore (Division 5) and Bryan Gervais (Division 6).
South East Butcher Block Co-op hosts grand opening
By Stephanie Zoer
For the South East Butcher Block (SEBB) Co-operatives directors and stakeholders, it was a year of anticipation to finally hold their grand opening on Nov. 2.
Each of the 250 people in attendance could take a tour of the facilities and enjoy beef on a bun and a celebratory cake.
According to Jen Cobham, one of the 17 employees, most people were impressed with the building and thought it was a beautiful addition to the town. All the employees had the opportunity to move over to the new building after Davis Meats was shut down.
“It was amazing to see so many people come out,” said Cobham.
As people came and went throughout the afternoon, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place with Murray Carnduff. He was the owner of Davis Meats and now is the manager at the SEBB.
The directors were also on hand, including president Ryan Hull, and Trent Dorrance, William Brown, Marlowe Brown, Jeremy Brooks and Carri-Lee Rutten. Absent was Justin Marcotte.
Cannington MLA Daryl Harrison was also in attendance. T.L. Penner Construction from Virden, Man., the builders of the establishment, came out to join in on the festivities.
Trent Dorrance had a short speech to welcome everyone and to thank everyone for coming out. He also thanked all the directors and volunteers that put in thousands of hours to make this project happen, and the shareholders that have made this project possible.
The provincial government was also a big contributor to getting things going through the Saskatchewan Lean Improvements in Manufacturing (SLIM). This program is for purchasing or upgrading equipment to expand pro-
cessing to a new product complimentary to existing primary inputs. With spending a million dollars in equipment, this allowed the SEBB to receive half of this back through the program.
Four years ago, the plans for the SEBB began and a groundbreaking occurred Sept. 26, 2023, for the 5,000 square foot building that is located on the south end of Alameda. It houses a full store front and abattoir.
While they had hoped to have the grand opening in the spring, this was not possible as they waited for equipment, including the smoker. The old smoker did its job, but the new one was to get things rolling in a quicker fashion.
The old Davis Meats Shop was closed down and purchased by the SEBB, and the old Davis Abattoir still stands beside the new building. It will be demolished in the future.
Right now, they are busy with wild game
and pork processing, but Dorrance said they have met expectations and are genuinely happy with the way things are going.
They will not be processing any fowl at the plant, but pigs, goats, sheep, cattle, bison, deer, moose or elk are all part of the animals they will handle.
The store front is packed with meat for purchasing, offering a wide range of meats.
They believe the outcome of the day was a
huge success and they are extremely happy with how it all turned out.
The directors, staff
and shareholders look forward to a future of providing top quality meat and service through the SEBB.
From left, Marlowe Brown, Carri-Lee Rutten, Ryan Hull, Trent Dorrance, Jeremy Brooks and William Brown were on hand from the board of directors. Absent was Justin Marcotte. Photos by Jen Cobham
Sending out cases of kindness in Saskatchewan
By Heather Vermeersch
At the Lions Provincial Convention in Moose Jaw on Oct. 26, we spent part of the afternoon engaged in a special service project.
We put together 1,000 Cases of Kindness for people in need from across the province. We recycled eyeglass cases and filled them with Band-Aids, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant packages, a comb, wipes and an emery board.
District 5SKS applied for and received a community grant through Lions Clubs International Foundation. It helped with the facility rental, supplies for the kits, labels and boxes for distributing the cases, and a few other miscellaneous expenses.
The kits will be distributed across the province to shelters and organizations who can give them to people who are in need.
We are aware of the fact many people struggle with a variety of issues and sometimes just need a few personal care items to help them through a rough patch. Our motto as Lions is “we serve” and this is a small gesture to offer a bit of kindness.
We had 80 participants, some who attended the convention and others who just came to help put the kits together.
We were fortunate to have 12 Moose Jaw Army Cadets step up to assist us and they did an amazing job of keeping us on task.
Our international president Fabricio Oliveira is asking us to Make our Mark this year and this one way the Lions of Saskatchewan did just that.
Photos courtesy of Heather Vermeersch
Rememberi ng al lw ho have fo ug ht fo ro ur free do m
Lest We Forget
John Voutour: Portrait of a Canadian peacekeeper
By Doug Waldner
This year is the 70th anniversary of the start of Canada’s involvement in UN Peacekeeping missions.
Canadian servicepeople have served as peacekeepers throughout the world, from the Far East to the Middle East, from the Mediterranean to Africa, and from the Balkans to the Caribbean.
In all these theatres, Canadian servicepeople served with honour and courage, and have been respected for their integrity. On this important anniversary, it is worthwhile to consider the story of one of our proud service members whose experience was that of a peacekeeper.
John Voutour lives in Kisbey with his wife Brenda, and is a member of the Carlyle branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. He is the sergeantat-arms of the Carlyle branch and has been the chairman of the poppy campaign for the last couple of years. Voutour
has a history of service, and his story of service is one of many, which should be told.
Voutour was born in Sussex, N.B., and was the eldest of 10 full siblings and 5 half siblings. As the eldest, he needed to find his place in the world soon after high school graduation.
His initial desire to join the RCMP was rejected as he did not meet the then-stringent physical stature requirements.
However the Canadian Armed Forces did not have similar rules regarding height, and very shortly after graduation, Voutour chose to join the Canadian Army. This was not a unique choice as his father had served as a dispatch rider for the Canadian Army in the Second World War in Italy, France and Germany.
Voutour took his basic training in Cornwallis, N.S., and then took 12 weeks of training to become an infantry soldier at Canadian Forces Base
(CFB) Gagetown. Once that training was complete, Voutour chose to come out west and joined the Princess Patricia, Canadian Light Infantry, C Company, and was situated in Winnipeg. Af-
ter Voutour was in Winnipeg for three months, C Company was assigned to peacekeeping duty in Cyprus.
The peacekeeping mission in Cyprus was set up in 1964 because the two
geographically separate ethnic groups, the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots, were warring to take control of the entire island and join with their respective homelands.
The United Nations established a peacekeeping mission to keep the belligerents separate and to save lives. This was the mission to which C Company, including Voutour, was assigned by the Canadian government.
It was on this mission that Voutour saw his first active duty, with everything that entails.
Peacekeeping in Cyprus in the early 1970s was a critical service, and nothing was done that could have been construed by either side as a provocation. Peacekeepers were sent by many nations and were dressed in different uniforms, but could be identified by the blue berets they wore. They did not wear body armour or helmets as those could be misinterpreted. Their duties were to walk the Green Line which separated the two sides
and to monitor all activity on both sides. The sensitivities were so high at the time, that the moving of sandbags or the movement of a sheet of galvanized metal could be read as improving fortifications, so those on duty had to report all activity and senior personnel had to act to defuse each and every situation.
Any unresolved “provocation” could have led to gunfire from both sides. All other physical activity, such as vehicular traffic and movement of livestock, also had to be reported and dealt with to prevent misunderstanding and the potential of hostilities.
Twenty-eight Canadians have lost their lives in the Cyprus mission since 1964, however no Canadian was killed on Voutour’s tour in Cyprus. However, a soldier he knew, from another country, was on patrol and using binoculars to observe the environment.
John Voutour on a tour of duty as a peacekeeper in Cyprus. Photos courtesy of John Voutour
REMEMBRANCE A day of
Voutour had many memorable experiences
« A1 A belligerent saw a light flash off of the binocular lens, assumed it was a reflection of a telescopic sight on a weapon on the other side and fired, killing the peacekeeper. This was the first soldier that Voutour knew personally who died on duty, but unfortunately, was not the last.
Voutour’s six-month tour in Cyprus, consisting of foot patrols, vehicle patrols and static service in stockades, finally ended and he and C Company returned to Canada. He was in Canada for six months and assigned to bases in Wainwright, Alta., Shilo, Man., and Dundurn.
After the Arab-Israeli Yom Kippur war in 1973, a peacekeeping force from the United Nations was sent into Israel to separate those who had gone to war. Members from Voutour’s battalion were asked to volunteer for a lottery to work in Egypt as support staff to the active peacekeepers.
Voutour volunteered, was selected and was sent on a tour in Egypt. It was
on this tour that another peacekeeping colleague lost his life.
A corporal from Senegal that Voutour had gotten to know was on patrol in a Jeep and drove over a land mine. The ensuing blast injured the officer who was with him, but the Sengalese corporal was killed.
After his six-month tour in Egypt, Voutour returned to Canada and in the spring of 1974, he and Brenda Beatty were married. He had met Brenda in 1972 on a blind date in Kenosee Lake on a trip from Manitoba with a couple of his friends in C Company.
Three months after their wedding, Voutour was assigned to Baden Baden, West Germany, where they spent four years. This was during the height of the Cold War with the U.S.S.R., and the Canadian Forces base was in place as part of Canada’s commitment to NATO.
During this tour, their oldest daughter Crystal was born, and Voutour
became aware that, although he was serving his country, his wife was also serving. In order to maintain combat readiness, those serving in West Germany would be assigned to training
maneuvers and he would be gone for six to eight weeks at a time. During this time, Brenda was responsible for maintaining their home and parenting by herself.
Although the Cold War
was a very tense time worldwide, a hot war did not erupt, and after their four-year tour in West Germany, the Voutours returned to Canada and were based in Winnipeg. A second daughter, Amy, was born during their time in Winnipeg.
Shortly after returning to Canada, Voutour changed his direction in the military and took training in electrical construction engineering. This required a sixmonth training course in Chilliwack, B.C. Voutour was trained as an electrician, and he returned to Winnipeg for six months of duty and then took six more months of training.
Upon completion of this training, Voutour was assigned to a road crew and was involved in maintaining bases and armouries. This assignment would at times require him to be away from his family for six weeks at a time.
After five years of serving in this position, the Voutours felt it was time to move back into civilian
life and have more control over where they lived. At this point, Voutour had served for 12 years in the military. After his retirement, he served for five more years as an air cadets officer.
As a peacekeeper and service member assigned to a NATO operation, Voutour was not involved in a shooting war, but the stress and danger was present at all times during his service. Like so many soldiers, in wartime or peace, Voutour regards his service as a job that needed to be done.
Remembrance Day is important to Voutour, because that is the day the sacrifices of so many, including his colleagues in Cyprus and Egypt whose lives were lost in the pursuit of peace, are at the forefront of his mind.
On this Remembrance Day, let us not only honour those who fought and sacrificed, but also the many thousands of those, like Voutour, whose service was no less necessary, but is often overlooked.
John Voutour now
REMEMBRANCE A day of
The three branches of the Canadian Armed Forces
Each November, individuals across Canada honour and recognize the service and sacrifices of members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Remembrance Day is celebrated in Canada every year on Nov. 11, making the month of November an ideal time to learn about each of the three branches of the country’s armed forces.
The Royal Canadian Navy
The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is tasked with protecting Canadian sov-
Canadians observe Remembrance Day each year on Nov. 11. Once known as Armistice Day, Remembrance Day honors deceased military members, living veterans and current Canadian Armed Forces personnel.
Millions will observe Remembrance Day this November, and the following facts can help them gain a greater understanding of the day.
ereignty at sea – at home and abroad. Sailors in the RCN also provide peacekeeping services and humanitarian aid and prevent illegal activities from happening at sea.
According to the Government of Canada, the RCN is made up of approximately 8,400 regular force personnel. An additional 4,100 reservists and 3,800 civilians serve in the RCN.
The Canadian Army
The Canadian Army is the land component of the Canadian Armed Forc-
•Remembrance Day has a lengthy history in Canada. Armistice Day was first commemorated in Canada in 1919, when King George V urged all countries in the British Commonwealth, including Canada, to observe the day.
•The name of the holiday was changed from Armistice Day to Remembrance Day in 1931.
•The choice to commemorate the holiday
es. The Army consists of full-time regular soldiers, part-time reservists who serve in communities
that eventually became Remembrance Day on Nov. 11 has symbolic meaning. According to the Government of Canada, the choice reflects the signing of the armistice agreement on Nov. 11, 1918, which called for an end to hostilities at 11 a.m. It happens to be the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. The armistice ended the First World War, though fighting continued for hours
across Canada, and Canadian Rangers from remote locations in Canada.
The Government of
after the agreement was reached. The Treaty of Versailles, which was the formal peace treaty that ended the war, was not signed until 1919.
•The poppy symbolizes Remembrance Day. Though the red poppy symbolizes Memorial Day in the United States, and Veterans Day is observed on November 11, the poppy is worn in Canada on Remembrance Day to honour
Canada notes that the army reserve is a parttime component of the Canadian Army that deploys members both at home and abroad. With roughly 21,500 members, reservists make up nearly as large a force as the regular force (22,500 members), and an additional 3,500 civilian employees serve in support of the Army.
Royal Canadian Air Force
Working in partnership with the United States, the Royal Canadian Air
fallen service members.
•The poppy has Canadian roots, as a 1915 poem referred to the fields of poppies growing around the graves of First World War soldiers in Flanders. That poem was written by a Canadian Lt.-Col. named John McCrae.
Force (RCAF) defends and protects Canadian and North American airspace. The RCAF flies a large inventory of aircraft, which the Government of Canada notes includes a significant amount of new or completely modernized aircraft. The RCAF serves in both peacetime and during times of conflict. The Canadian Armed Forces serve a variety of functions, protecting Canadians, Canadian interests and even foreign citizens both at home and abroad.
A national ceremony is held each year at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. The governor general of Canada, who presides over the ceremony, and the prime minister are among the notable officials to attend each year. A column of veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces, officers of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and cadets march to the memorial. France, Belgium, Poland and the U.K. also observe Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
REMEMBRANCE A day of
Carlyle leads the way for veterans’ banner project
By David Willberg
The South East Military Museum’s efforts to remember the veterans of the region, through commemorative banners, still has a lot of interest.
More than 180 banners are hanging in 13 communities, with Ogema being the newest one to come on board. Fortysix banners have been added throughout the region this year.
Carlyle, Lampman, Stoughton, Redvers, Carnduff, Kisbey, Estevan, Macoun, Midale, Weyburn, Radville and Whitewood are also participating. Carlyle has the most banners with roughly 70.
“Their legion has really come to the forefront with getting veterans from that area displayed in Carlyle. If you ever go into Carlyle around Remembrance Day, they have them on all of the main streets and in all of the residential areas, so it’s quite a thing to see in Carlyle if you’re there and take a drive around town. They do have quite a few banners commemorating a lot of the veterans from that area and from White Bear,” said Craig Bird, the museum’s founder and a military historian.
Among the new banners for the Carlyle area is Eliza Beatty, who was the National Silver Cross Mother in 1979. Bird said the museum gets some unique requests every year, and it tries to accommodate them if possible.
Bird is surprised at how quickly the project has taken off since it was launched in 2021.
“As word’s getting out, and people are seeing them up, I’m getting more and more interest, which is always nice. It’s one of those things in which you get them out in the community, people see them and they want to know where they got them from. It snowballs from there,” said Bird.
The cutoff date to submit a banner request is the middle of August, so the museum has time to produce the banner and get the communities to help hang them. Bird said he is already starting to take orders for 2025.
“We try to do it all at the same time to save on shipping costs with the banners, so that we can get them out to the communities, and also give the towns a little bit of time and an opportunity to put them up when the weather is nice,” said Bird.
If someone wants to purchase a banner to remember someone who served, Bird said they need to include the name, the rank if it’s known, a photo, preferably from the individual’s service time, the unit(s) the individual served with, and the era of service. If they don’t have the information, part of the museum’s effort is to get service records for the family members so they know the loved one’s history.
The museum is looking to honour anyone who has served their country, including those who are active with the Canadian Forces.
“We’ve done banners for members that have served other countries. For example, in Carlyle, we have a family there in which their family members have
served in the Australian army. We have members in some of the communities that have served in the French Army or the British Army. It doesn’t matter as long as their family is here, and they want a banner to commemorate somebody’s service.”
The banners cost $200, including tax. Depending on how much a family wants to spend, the museum offers an option to purchase the hanging hardware which is $300. Some companies have decided they want to help by donating the funds to supply banner brackets
After Remembrance Day, the banners are taken down and often replaced with Christmas decorations. The banners are stored by the municipality or the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Further information on the project and ordering of banners can be found on the South East Military Museums’ website. People can also email semilitarymuseum@outlook.com.
Banners paying tribute to veterans hand throughout Carlyle. File photo
Arcola High House will have plenty of food, drinks, sweets and treats for customers
By Dolores Young
When Jamie Lynn and Wendy Funk collaborated and opened their Little Coffee Shop on the Prairies in Regina, they had always dreamed of owning a restaurant.
Jamie loves to bake and Wendy loves to cook. They both have years of experience in the hospitality industry. Their food truck, Truck ‘n’ Delicious, followed with
a passion for all things fun. The two have an entrepreneurial spirit and love new adventures and challenges.
So, when the Bite ‘n’ Brew dream in Regina was quashed, they regrouped and looked at the opportunities that began to unfold in front of them.
They decided Arcola and the High House is where their dreams would come true.
“We are so excited to bring The Pub in the High House, The Restaurant in the High House, The Bakery in the High House, and a soon to be Sweet Shop in the High House to the area.”
Their vision for this adventure is nothing short of spectacular.
Buddy’s Pub in the High House is open for business as usual. No change will be made to the menu at this time.
Current hours Sunday and Monday, 5-9 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-midnight, and Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight.
Their vision for The Pub moving forward is to bring it back to its roots and once again be the host of the cultural life of the community. They are planning on having special event nights, live entertainment and daily drink and food specials. You can expect to look forward to Monday Night Football, CFL, NHL, Bingo, fight nights, wine nights for the women, meat draws and Chase the Ace.
You can follow their Facebook page Arcola High House for daily specials, hours and upcoming events. They are also open to suggestions from the community on what they would like to see.
The Restaurant in the High House is tentatively set to be open on Dec. 1. Details are still being worked out and hours of operation have not yet
been decided. It will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with regular fare, but also some great speciality items.
A few exciting items on the menu are homemade soups, buns, poutines, potato jackets and so much more. There will also be a daily special for lunch and dinner. Sunday is a very special day and will be open for
brunch at 10 a.m. and a special roast dinner every week that will rotate weekly from beef, pork, ham, chicken, turkey, etc. in keeping with Wendy’s family tradition.
The dinner will change up each week. Also available will be specialty coffees, expresso, lattés, etc. as both Wendy and Jamie Lynn have barista experience.
The Bakery in the High House will have fresh baked sweet cinnamon buns, flapper pie, lemon meringue pie, cheesecake, custom cakes, cupcakes and sugar cookies for any occasions with edible images, just to name a few.
Town of Lampman
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that for the election of: Mayor of the Town of Lampman (1) Councillor of the Town of Lampman (6)
1. Notice of Poll for the To wn of Lampman will take pla ce on the 13 th da y of No vember 2024, from 9:00am to 8:00pm at the L amp man To wn Offi ce, 303 Main Steet, Lampman, SK.
2 Election Results will be declared by 9:00 am on the 14th day of November, 2024.
Nominated for Mayor: Scott Greening, Jay (John) Jones
Nominated for Council: Jadon Carnduff, Rand y Fleck, Ta nner Fr yc z , Stev en Massel, Mark Morrissette, Twyla Quantrill, R.J. (Roy) Raynard, Daryle Runge, Ry an Saxon, Dena Scot t, Ian S t ewar t , Kel l y St or l i e, Garrett Woodley
The Sweet Shoppe is set to open in the spring, and you can look forward to old-fashioned carnival food with homemade candies, ice cream, sundaes, cotton candy, snow cones, candy, baking and many other special treats. Jamie Lynn with the Bakery in the High House will also be hosting baking and decorating classes to one and all. Kids, adults and sensory friendly as well.
Wendy and Jamie Lynn’s vision for the High House is to bring the community together and have somewhere for everyone to come and enjoy good food, family and friendships.
Welcome to Arcola, ladies.
Dated at Lampman, SK this 11th day of October, 2024
Teresa Dyck/ Returning Officer
Jamie Lynn and Wendy Funk are bringing good food and good times to the Arcola High House.
Jamie Lynn’s bakery will be creating custom cakes and many other bakery items.
Costumes are a big part of Dickens Festival
By Michele Amy
Have you got your Dickens Village Festival costume ready? Always wanted to dress up but never quite hit the timing right?
That happened to me a bunch of years ago. It occurred to me a couple of days before the festival that I really should dress up. But I had no idea how to do that. So, thank goodness for good old Google.
I found an online Victorian museum, got a good look at the shape, headed to The Bargain Shop and bought some tablecloths, as there was no sewing supply store in town at the time, and then I dredged up my old high school sewing skills and voila – a Dickens costume.
Then I made the matching hat. My friend Emily always told me that my hat looked like an ironing board, and she probably had a point, but I had a hat. So that was all I was going for. I’ve since upgraded the old costume and have retired the ironing board (I mean hat) but you get the idea.
A good costume really just takes a few minutes of creativity, perhaps a quick Google moment and (sometimes) access to a glue gun.
Now, as we look on the street during Dickens, we see all sorts of Victorian garb, from Bobbies
in their blue uniforms to fancy dress outfits like the deluxe dress which Lorri Solomon sports, to the low-class maid outfits complete with mop hats, waifs in slouch hats and homespun pants. Of course, there’s getting growled at by Ebenezer Scrooge himself, replete with fancy period garb.
We’ll see the many crafted hats at the Carlyle United Church courtesy of the amazing Irene Doty (who made sure to pass them on to Bev and ensure the tradition continued after her passing), and many handsome men in full top hat and tails.
We see the many outfits handily sewn by Shelley Slykhuis, and many more crafted using tree skirts as shawls.
It’s a veritable panoply of costuming, including hats which closely resemble miniature ironing boards.
For those sporting a costume of any sort, please stop by Fezziwig’s pub at the Carlyle Memorial Hall, sign the guest book and get your festival pictures included for the Observer.
Because running an event like this really does take a whole village or town, the businesses are busily decorating their storefronts in anticipation (and taking advantage of some lovely weather to do so). Many organizations around town are prepar-
ing their lighted float for the 6 p.m. parade which happens both Friday and Saturday. I’m sure the many children around town are finding a good bag for all the candy they collect.
The Santa run, sponsored by Living Skies Strength and Conditioning gym, the pancake breakfast on Dec. 7 are busy getting supplies and volunteer lists ready. The United Church folk will be decorating their trees, baking scones and making vats of tea in preparation for the high tea celebration.
The Catholic Church will be preparing the chowder, the many community groups have started getting their food booths ready and the folks who shall be selling at the Victorian market are madly involved with preparations to show off their hand-made wares at the elementary school location.
And Cornerstone Theatre is busy rehearsing their latest offering, It’s a Wonderful Hockey Life, and the music will be worth the price of admission, with a live band and incredibly talented vocalists. And of course, Paul Twietmeyer and crew always create the most amazing sets. But tickets sell our really fast for the three official productions, so maybe get yours soon. If you cannot make those because you’re busy working at the festival, just pop on down to the dress rehearsal on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. You’ll get a good idea of the shenanigans which happen spontaneously as the crew puts together a production, and you can just toss $20 into the collection plate –a percentage of which is designated for the local food bank.
And watch next week (or on Facebook) when
ACALLOUT FORVOLUNTEERS
TheDickens Village Festival committee has started workingonthe 21st AnnualFestival andweneedlotsofhelp! Help is needed allaround to make thefestival successful.
We arelooking forsomeco-coordinators and peoplewho canhelpfor an hour,two hoursand more! Ittakes acommunity to pulloffanevent and thefestival show cases Carlyle andsurroundingarea. Watchfor adocumentonsocialmedia that you cansignupfor We will honor youcommitment forhelping out
Thankyou foryour commitment to participate. Festival is December6th &7th Any questions pleasecontact ShelleySlykhuis@ 306.577.7543
the entire lineup for the free music festival is unveiled. Old-time dances; Cratchit kids’ production; the Amazing Al Simmons, who has wowed audiences on huge stages across Canada; the Cornerstone open mic which features Canadian Grand Master fiddler Emily Dubois; local powerhouse Dianne Twietmeyer; as well as special festival guest Errol Kinistino (of Dog River fame) as well as country songbird Eli Barsi, who will also have her merchandise for sale.
And this year, after the play, two different bands will keep the party going at the Fezziwig’s Pub – the Teagan Littlechief Band and then the Moxie Blue Band. It’s going to be amazing, so plan to put on your fancy dress and parade on down to Fezziwig’s for a great community gathering over the Dickens Festival weekend, Dec. 6 and 7.
REQUIREMENTS
purchaser regarding
This information is available by contacting the Town Office in person at 319
Street, Oxbow, SK; or by email at administrator@oxbow.ca.
Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed Form A, no later than 4:00 p.m.
Assessment ID / Alt. #: 495010050-01
Legal Land Description (LLD): Lot 8 Blk 2 Plan AM1340
Civic Address: 717 McCall St, Oxbow, SK
Lot Size: 55ft x 200ft
Zoning: R1 – Residential Low-Density District
According to the last returned assessment roll, the
This property is currently occupied
A tender must be submitted in a sealed envelope addressed
The
Donna and Ron Matsalla. Photos sourced from the Dickens Facebook page
Harold Smith and Ron Paul
Carlyle Curling Club excited for upcoming season
By Jessica Shirley
The Carlyle Curling Club has been buzzing with preparations for the upcoming season. Dedicated board members and volunteers have worked hard to ensure everything is ready for
another year on the ice. Thanks to Pure Chem, which provided the use of their truck wash, the club’s hacks are now washed and ready.
A highlight this season is the arrival of the club’s new rings. This project has come together with
Carlyle Obser ver Email: obser ver@sasktel.net Attention: Dolores Young Office: 306-453-2525
the support of both new and long-standing sponsors, whose logos are displayed on the ice. Special thanks goes to Robin Brown, Dave East, Lane Newell, Devin Brown and Gerald Clark for putting in long hours to install the rings and logos. With the final touches on the ice nearly complete, the curling season is set to begin the week of Nov. 12, and curlers are excited to return.
In addition to these updates, the Carlyle Curling Club is also focusing on a vital long-term goal: raising funds for a new ice plant. Due to upcoming changes in regulations, the refrigerant used in the current system will soon be unavailable, making a replacement essential. The estimated cost for this upgrade is approximately $500,000.
While board members are actively applying for grants to help offset the cost, they’re also planning additional fundraising initiatives – such as logo sales, bonspiels and other events – to support this effort. They hope to keep the current ice plant running for another two years, providing time to secure the needed funds and ensuring the future of curling in Carlyle.
The first bonspiel of the year, the ladies’ bonspiel, will happen Nov. 22-23, marking the start of a series of events where the community can come together and help support this goal.
In addition to regular curling events, the Carlyle Curling Club offers rental space. As the Christmas season approaches, community members can consider the venue for Christmas parties, meetings, birthday celebrations, baby showers, bridal showers and more. The rental rate for the upstairs area is $135, and there is also a fully-
licensed bar available, with board members on hand to provide service if desired. Those interested can book by contacting Justine Kyle at 306-8612382.
340644 HorizonDrillingHarvard Resources15-35-5-16 340152 Stampede DrillingWestLakeEnergy13-15-1-33 331137 Betts Drilling Aldon Oils 16-26-5-7 328053 Betts Drilling Aldon Oils 1-26-5-7 348090Stampede DrillingWoodland Develop. 13-10-12-6 348057 Stampede DrillingWoodland Develop. 2-22-12-6 85248 Betts DrillingBurgess Creek 8-11-5-7
303846EnsignEnergy Saturn Oil& Gas2-13-1-14 305992 Ensign Energy Saturn Oil& Gas13-22-1-14
345476 Savanna DrillingPrairie LithiumCorp15-9-4-14
345817 Stampede DrillingSaturnOil &Gas 8-6-8-1
284447 Betts DrillingBurgess Creek 15-35-4-8 11A024 Stampede DrillingWhitecapResources 9-35-4-6 345224 Stampede DrillingSaturnOil &Gas 13-17-6-4
300368 Stampede DrillingRok Resources3-26-4-2 326466 Savanna DrillingVeren Inc1-26-6-11 326979 Savanna DrillingVeren Inc1-26-6-11 333530 Panther DrillingVermilionEnergy13-2-1-3
348787 Stampede DrillingTundra Oil& Gas5-17-4-4 343170 Stampede DrillingRok Resources9-35-2-3 342400 Panther DrillingVermilionEnergy2-7-1-3
The Carlyle Curling Club is also going to host Learn to Curl days, where newcomers and seasoned players alike can enjoy some time on the ice. Board members will be present to guide beginners through the basics, and equipment such as brooms and sliders is provided for all ages. There will also be a floor curling setup for younger kids to experience the sport. Participants need only bring themselves and a pair of clean shoes. For those looking to relax, the club bar will be open on these days, making it a great outing for friends and family alike.
Thanks to the Southern Plains Co-op’s Fuel Good Day in September, $2,544.43 was raised to benefit the club’s youth curling program. These funds will be used to support student curlers from Grade 4 through high school, ensuring access to equipment and keeping fees affordable for families.
The club’s goal is to expand programming to reach younger children, providing specialized equipment and additional opportunities for youth, such as family nights and youth bonspiels.
With club members coming from across the region, including Carlyle, Redvers, Wawota, Kenosee Lake, Arcola, Manor, White Bear, Oxbow and Lampman, the Carlyle Curling Club fosters a vibrant curling community. In addition to regular programming, the club will host several events this season, including youth bonspiels in January, and oilmen’s and farmers’ bonspiels in February.
To stay updated on open ice times, events, and more details, follow the Carlyle Curling Club’s Facebook page. Donations are always appreciated, as they help support the club’s plant and ongoing programs.
Sponsors are displayed on this year’s ice surface. Photo courtesy of the Carlyle Curling Club.
OBSERVER
In Loving Memory of Brenda Brigden Wife, Mother and Grandmother
Who left us on November 9, 2011 You were always there when we needed you
No task to great or small
With a loving heart and willing hand For us you did them all Thanks for the years you gave us and for the times we shared. We pray that when you left us you knew how much we cared.
Loving remembered by:
Allan - Drew & Coreen- Devon & Amanda Barrett Brodrick - Preston & Taure Jhett-Kruz-Todd & Tanya, KyrinElly
AD DEADLINES
Southeast leads the way for latest sale of oil and gas rights in Sask
The Government of Saskatchewan’s latest Crown oil and natural gas public offering, held on Oct. 29, raised $7,304,936 for the province, with the southeast region generating the majority of the revenue.
Of the 112 parcels posted for this offering, 93 received acceptable bids, covering a total of 15,347.639 hectares.
The southeast brought in $5,417,916. Fifty-six leases encompassing 6,012.494 hectares were sold for $5,010,245, or $833.31 per hectare. Sixty-seven leases were available.
One licence for 2,318.023 hectares was sold for $407,670, or $175.87 per hectare to Millennium Land (444) Ltd. It is located four kilometres south of Minton.
The highest bonus bid and dollars per hectare received on a lease in this offering was $1,369,276, an average of $5,284.76 per hectare. This 259.099-hectare lease was awarded to Surge Energy Inc. and is located nine kilometres northeast of Macoun, within the Bryant Frobisher Beds Oil Pool.
The Kindersley area fetched $1,325,636 for 21 leases encompassing 5,063.604 hectares, an average of $261.80/hectare. Twenty-two leases were available.
The highest bonus bid and the highest dollars per hectare received on a lease in this area was $288,689.02, an average of $1,105.69 per hectare. This 261.094-hectare lease was awarded to Durham Creek Energy Ltd. and is located five kilometres west of Dodsland, within the Plenty Viking Sand Oil pool.
The total bonus received in the Lloydminster
area was $559,269 for eight parcels encompassing 1,369.226 hectares, for an average sale price of $408.46 per hectare. Eleven leases were available.
The highest bonus bid and the highest dollars per hectare received on a lease in this area was $284,646.84, an average of $1,100.88 per hectare. This 258.56-hectare lease was awarded to Evergo Resources Ltd. and is located 13 kilometres southwest of Turtleford, within the Standard Hill Waseca Sand Oil Pool.
The highest dollars per hectare received on a lease in this area was $1,548.88 per hectare, or a total of $25,025.25. This 16.157-hectare lease was awarded to Synergy Land Services Ltd. and is located 14 kilometres northeast of Maidstone, within the Dee Valley East Mannville Sands Oil Pool.
The total bonus received in Swift Current area was $2,115.14 for seven parcels encompassing 584.292 hectares, an average of $3.62/hectare. Eleven leases were posted.
The highest bonus bid received in this area was $703.97, or $3.62 per hectare. This 194.466-hectare lease was awarded to Canadian Natural Resources Limited and is located 25 kilometres northeast of Maple Creek.
These parcels that received bids of $3.62/hectare included only those shallow rights from the Surface to Top Milk River Formation. All seven parcels sold in this area were acquired by Canadian Natural Resources Limited.
There are six scheduled public offerings of oil and natural gas dispositions held each fiscal year in Saskatchewan. After four public offerings this fiscal year, the provincial government has raised $37,382,523.18 in revenue. The next offering is scheduled for Dec. 3.
In Memoriam
Rockets win twice in the Big Six’s weekend games
The Redvers Rockets had a big weekend in the Big Six Hockey League, winning twice and scoring a combined 15 goals.
Redvers defeated the KiplingWindthorst Oil Kings 7-4 on Friday. The two teams were tied at 2-2 after the first period, but Redvers scored three times in the second and added another in the third for a 6-2 advantage.
Jordon Miller (two goals and three assists), Kenton Miller (a goal and four assists) and Naton Miller (two goals and two helpers) led the Redvers attack. Oliver Poirier and Carson Henrion also scored.
Jordan Mish, Austin Fleck, Lucas Fleck and Drew Czerwonka tallied for the Oil Kings.
Jason Henrion was in goal for Redvers, while Dylan DeDecker was the Oil Kings’ goalie.
The following night, the Rockets routed the Carnduff Red Devils 8-1. Kenton Miller scored twice for Redvers, and Poirier, Jordon Miller, Koltyn Miller, Braeden Magotiaux, Daylin Smallchild and Bradey Fidierchuk also scored for the Rockets.
Ben Hiltz had Carnduff’s lone goal.
Thomas Bauche was in goal for Redvers, while Cody Dumaine was the Carnduff goalie.
Two other games were played on the weekend. The defending league champions, the Moosomin Rangers, opened the season with a 7-3 triumph
over the Midale Mustangs. Moosomin scored four times in the second period to break open a 1-0 game.
Bud Holloway scored twice and added three helpers for Moosomin, while Taylor Sanheim (two goals and two helpers) and Carter Sewchuk (a goal and three assists) had four points each. Ryker Cote and Brad Cole also scored. Kyler Beckett was Moosomin’s goalie.
Logan Martinson, Devon Johnson and Sterling Bear had the Mustangs’ goals. Carver Ottenbreit was Midale’s goalie.
The Mustangs recovered to defeat the Oil Kings 8-4 on Saturday night, thanks in part to four goals in the first period.
Steven Lindenbach had two goals and two assists to pace the Mustangs, and Brad Tomiski had two goals as well. Connor Burk, Jordan Ross, Matt Geske and Bear notched the other Midale goals.
Landon Melzer, Dan Loffler, and Austin and Lucas Fleck also scored.
Talen King (Midale) and DeDecker (Kipling-Windthorst) tallied for the Oil Kings.
Three games are slated for next weekend. The Carlyle Cougars and the Oxbow Huskies will open their respective seasons when they meet Nov. 8 in Carlyle at 8 p.m. Also, the Mustangs will visit the Rangers on Nov. 8 at 8:30 p.m., and Moosomin will be at Carnduff on Nov. 9 at 8 p.m.
Kenosee: Saturday at 5 p.m Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200 Full Gospel
Church of Our Lady, Carlyle
Father Chris Juchacz Carlyle: Sunday at 11 a.m.
The Redvers Rockets and the Carndu Red Devils met Saturday night in Carndu .
Photo by Rachelle Apperley
TAURUS
It’s
your well-being. Inspiration guides you towards healthy changes, which will open thedoor to spirituality.
GEMINI
You’ll plan amemorableactivity for your group of friends. Your involvement will determine the results. You’ll overcome your shyness with some effort. Perseverance will lead to success!
CANCER
Youneed aplan of action to manage your responsibilities. Getyour prioritie ss tr aight with the he lp of your lovedones. Family cooperation will be crucial to your success.
ACROSS
1. Seize 5. Zipped 9. Attack!
12. Aristocrat 13. Modeling medium
14. Supportive 15. Small harp
16. Infrequent 17. Talk
18. Commercial writer
20. Frameofmind
22. Coal weight
24. Imitated
26. Deliloaves
27. Should
29. Fast-food order: 2wds.
31. Garland
33. Bee’s target
37. Harvest
39. Met musical 40. Dull pain
43. Rise
45. Treathides
46. Finger 48. Verse 50. Poetic contraction
51. Guitar’skin
53. Metaldeposits
56. Disfigure
57. Baffled
58. Yard broom
59. Snoop
60. Cattle group
61. Lowerjoint
DOWN
6. Mars,e.g. 7. Corn unit 8.Stains
Mist
Steamed
Manages
1. Styling product 2. Sunbeam 3. Adjust 4. Oozed 5. Leftover piece
Not glossy
Company
Drag
“____ Gang”
Sawbones
Sultan’s ladies
Magnificence 32. Possesses 34. Ex-soldier 35. Notable age 36. Raced 38. Heavy ale 40. Specks
HOW TO PLAY:
Fill in the grid so thateveryrow, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1through 9only once.
Each 3x3 boxisoutlined with a darker line. Youalreadyhavea few numbers to getyou started Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1through9inthe same line, columnor3x3 box.
LEO Going back to school will be hard. However, it’s arewardingdecisionthat aligns with your values and goals. Perseverance is key. The support of your lovedones will help you succeed as you learn.
VIRGO
Youmust carefully analyze the situation before deciding. Joining aspiritual group can expand your horizons and enhance your quality of life. Pay attention to all aspects before committing.
LIBRA
You’ll have an important decision to make that requiresthoughtful consideration. Don’t be swayed by outside pressure. Trust your intuition to find the right answer. Patience will be your friend as youcomeupwith appropriate solutions.
SCORPIO
Youmust carefully prepare anegotiation to achieve agood outcome. You’ll findsolutions to your financial and professional problems by landingyour dream job.
SAGITTARIUS Treatyourselftoa shopping spreeina high-end boutique. Takingcare of your outwar da ppe ar anc ew ill he lp you climb the ranks at work. Investinyour image to reap the rewards of success.
CAPRICORN
You’ll enjoy the comforts of home and improve your efficiency by working remotely. You’ll deep clean your home to create an environment that boosts productivity.
AQUARIUS If there’s amisunderstandingamongst your family members, don’t prolong the situation. Clarify roles and decisions to clear up any vagueness. Open and direct communication is necessaryto resolve misunderstandings.
PISCES
An unexpected promotion or opportunity for advancementwill presentitself when acolleague quits. You’ll be chosen to act as the interim managerduring your boss’s vacation. This will earn you a raise. Your hard work will be rewarded.
Copyright© 2024, Penny Press
ANSWERTOPUZZLE NO. 263
CROS SW ORD PU ZZ LE AN SWER S US EA MERICAN SPELLING
PUZZLE NO. 263