The Observer December 16, 2022

By Gord Paulley

For the second year in a row, perfect weather contributed to a successful Winterfest in the town of Redvers.

Children of all ages participated and enjoyed the many activities that took place.

At the Redvers School, kids had their pictures taken with Santa Claus. They enjoyed games of Laser Tag and Strike a Light in the gymnasium.

It was a total town effort as the tennis courts were converted into a skating rink complete with outdoor lighting. The ice surface proved to be very popular and the Town of Redvers plans to keep it in use all winter long.

The sleigh rides were a popular attraction and the Redvers Winterfest committee thanks Nelson Motors for arranging that service. A bouncy castle and hot apple cider were provided by Redvers OneChurch.

Christmas glitter tattoos were available at Grandma’s Closet.

Courtesy of Painted Prairie Cactus of Maryfield, children enrolled in two crafting classes. The Redvers businesses all had related discounts and bargains in their stores.

Wendy Luyten organized the trade show at the Royal Canadian Legion’s Redvers hall.

“The 18 vendors were happy with the day and there was a steady flow of traffic. There was a nice variety of Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers with Lynda Hainsworth winning the lovely Christmas basket door prize,” said Luyten. “Organized by Brooklyn Garnier and the Grade 12 graduating class, they served up delicious bowls of chili as a fundraiser.

“It was my first time organizing the trade show and I really enjoyed myself. Looking forward to doing it again next year.”

was well attended. The Redvers Fire Depart-

obstacle course at the Today’s Electronics parking lot. The large crowd in attendance enjoyed the crackling bonfire and hot chocolate. There was a memory tree lighting ceremony at the corner of Broadway and Railway Avenue.

Before the Redvers Rockets senior hockey game versus the Carlyle Cougars, the kids were able to enjoy the pregame skate with their heroes.

Once again, this year, the chief organizers of the Redvers Winterfest were Kendra Miller, Kayleen Gaudet and Megan Ellison.

“Thank-you to all you of the volunteers and committee members that helped this year. We had tremendous attendance and with over 20 floats participating, our parade was bigger and better than ever. Our committee is really looking forward to hosting an even bigger event in 2023,” said Miller.

A parade in the town was once again a big attraction.

A cribbage tournament was held at the Golden Age Centre and

ment set up a junior

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Lampman Community Theatre has a Murder at the Opry

By Stephanie Zoer

Lampman Community Theatre (LCT) had their performances on Dec. 8-10 at the Lampman branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

The play, Murder at the Opry, was written by Maureen Ulrich, who has been involved with the community players since 1997.

On Dec. 8-9, the show began at 7:30 p.m. with approximately 75 per cent of tickets sold. Dec. 10 included a dinner prepared by the legion and it was sold out.

Ulrich has written over 40 plays for youths and community theatres, as well as several professional productions.

They began rehearsals on Oct. 11, practising twice a week, with Sundays off, and also taking a break for two weeks so cast members could learn their lines.

Fifteen people took to the stage, some having done this before but others were new.

Calvin Christensen played Earl Rivers entertainer of the year. This was Christensen’s third play, and he feels it is a

wonderful way to release the stress from harvest.

Caydence Siebert was the usher-fiddler. This was her debut with LCT although she has been part of the Souris Valley Theatre camp for three years.

Stacey Rivers, Earl’s wife, was played by Stephanie Dayman. She is a teacher at Ocean Man Education Centre and the mother of two young boys.

Ed Fieber played the host Ed Turner. Fieber is

a long-time member of LCT and a retired schoolteacher who still substitute teaches.

Patsy Paws the ventriloquist was performed by a farmer and grandmother of eight, Brenda Fleck.

Diane Fornwald has been a member of LCT since 1997, when LCT began, and will play Detective Ophelia Henton.

Tamara Franklin is a teacher and volleyball coach at the Estevan Comprehensive School.

Franklin is also on the board for the Souris Valley Theatre. She was the bartender in the play.

Cherilyn Gress has been struggling with long-haul COVID, which has affected her memory but has been involved with the theatre since the beginning. She will play Maxine, Sweetheart No. 3.

Glenn Gress was the coroner-buddy, and he is a long-time farmer and 4-H leader in the Lampman area.

Sandy Hanrieder portrayed Detective Daphne D’Angelo. Hanrieder is the president at the Lampman legion.

Sarah Johnson usually is behind the scenes, but this year is Chloe, Sweetheart No. 2. Johnson is also a professional photographer.

Lenny is one of the detectives’ sons who is light fingered and played by a Lampman Grade 9 student, Kieran McKenzie. He keeps everyone on their toes.

Cornelia Michaelsen moved to Lampman from Switzerland in 2015 to farm. She played Nina Muller, Earl’s manager.

Damyen Seeman appeared for the fourth time.

He was excited about his part as Buddy Hamilton, a songwriter.

Doris Trobert lives outside of Estevan on an acreage and had the part of Zoe, Sweetheart No. 1 and the guitarist.

Tammy Siebert was in charge of lighting and a couch coach for the riders. Debbie Hanrieder was the sound person and another avid rider’s fan.

Joanne Schaff was the prompter and works at the Lampman Health Centre.

The plot of the play kept the audience on their toes after singer Earl Rivers dies while performing on stage.

Everyone has some kind of reason to see him gone, so the detectives try to conduct their investigation while receiving interference.

Each night had a different murderer, and it was so tight lipped who that would be, the cast did not know till the last minute.

Allison Holzer went to the play with a group of her friends.

“What an entertaining show with lots of fun and laughter,” said Holzer. “A perfect evening out. Hats off to Maureen and Lampman players.”

The Lampman Community Theater is thankful for all the work that everyone did, as it takes a lot of dedication to get this done, and for all the people that came out to watch the play.

The cast and crew at the Lampman Community Theatre worked many hours to bring Murder at the Opry to the stage. Photo by Maureen Ulrich

By Gord Paulley

December has been an extremely busy month for the Carlyle & District Foodbank, as they prepare to serve clients from their new Carlyle location.

The foodbank is now located in Bay 4, 200 Service Road on the north side of Highway 13. It anchors the west end of the building that includes the Moose Mountain Karate Club, Cross Fit and The Floor Store.

Chairwoman Theresa Luedtke is thankful to the Carlyle United Church for being able to use their basement space for over 24 years. The increased volumes of hampers and stairs were the determining factors in the move to the new location, where all hamper preparation and distribution to clients is on one level.

The relocation was held on the last Saturday of November. There were 24 volunteers assisting with the move, including members of the Redvers and Carlyle Lions Clubs, Crescent Point Energy, Performance Realty, Merit Ford and family members of the foodbank staff

The Carlyle & District Foodbank is a non-profit organization which was formed in 1989 and is one of 36 registered with Saskatchewan Foodbanks.

For the first 11 months of the year, the Carlyle & District Foodbank prepared 875 food hampers, which served 2,184 clients, an average of 199 clients per month. Among the clients, 1,363 were adults and 821 were children.

In addition to grocery items and hygiene products, clients could

also select donated winter clothing. More related programs are in the works with the added space now available.

Luedtke is very proud of the experienced sta ff of volunteers that keep the foodbank running smoothly, which serves clients that live within a 60-kilometre radius of Carlyle. The foodbank has donation dropoffs at Arcola Foods, the Southern Plains Coop’s Carlyle location, Carlyle Family Foods and the Redvers Co-op.

Financial donations are accepted by cheque to Box 356 Carlyle or e-transfer to carlylefoodbank123@ gmail.com. Tax receipts are available. The foodbank is very appreciative to the service clubs, schools, church groups, businesses and individual donors for their support over the past year.

Fifty years as a Lion

Long-time Carlyle District Lions Club member Norm Riddell was recently honoured by his club. The plaque reads, “Presented to Lion Norm Riddell, in recognition and appreciation of his 50 years of exceptional service to Lionism.” Presenting the award was club vicepresident Wayne Wilson and 5SKS second vicedistrict governor Heather Vermeersch.

Photo by Gord Paulley

Carlyle & District Foodbank chairwoman Theresa Luedtke, pictured at their new location at Bay 4, 200 Service Road. Photo by Gord Paulley

Carlyle District Lions Club member Dennis Feduk presenting foodbank chairwoman Theresa Luedtke with a $3,000 donation. Funds will be used to assist in the purchase of three stainless steel serving tables. Photo by Gord Paulley

Cornerstone Theatre Group members Dianne Twietmeyer and Craig Savill presenting foodbank chairwoman Theresa Luedtke with a $1,045 donation. These funds represent the net proceeds raised from the Dickens Festival performances. Photo by Craig Savill

What ’s your new year ’s resolution?

Stephanie Zoer

Just a few words

The new year is quickly approaching and along with that, thousands of people will make new year’s resolutions.

Here are my thoughts on the top 10 resolutions, according to my Google search. Only 75 per cent will last one week, 71 per cent two weeks, and after one month, that percentage goes down to 64. Six months down the road only 46 per cent will still hold fast to their new year’s resolutions.

Here it goes, the No. 1 resolution is exercise. I am safe with this one, although winter slows me down some. I am fairly sure house cleaning should count, as should walking to my truck. If they are talking about driving to the gym and working out, I would fail.

Losing weight is second. I aced this one. I am ahead of the game as I have lost 12 pounds in five weeks. I ate soup, yogurt and some ice cream. I should mention that I had all my teeth pulled and have to get used to dentures. Even so, I mastered it, but I will tell you, once I get the hang of these things, the chip bag and the Christmas chocolates will come out once again, so I guess I would fail.

The third is getting organized. I have this one hands down. I have a pile of stuff here and a pile of stuff there, and I know exactly what is in each pile. Nobody should mess with those piles, as then I would be unorganized, and I would fail at this one too. My daughter cleaned my side of the shop and now I cannot find anything.

Learn a knew skill? Now this one I do not know about. If learning a new skill gets the dishes done on their own without a dishwasher, I am game, as I do not like the skill of doing dishes.

Now five and six go hand in hand. Live life to its fullest and save money. Well, if I live life to its fullest, I am quite sure it is going to cost money. You see, a good barrel-racing horse is at least $10,000, so there would go my savings, as we all know horses and their upkeep are not cheap. This would be a big failure for me, as I already own a horse.

Smoking is No. 7 and I do not even put that on the list anymore. I have failed so many times on this one, I gave up, although Hubby would like it if I mastered this one.

Family time is eight. Are we talking siblings, kids and parents? My mother’s other children live far, far away, all our elderly parents are gone, and our kids just do not want to leave. We have tried, and they keep coming back. They must like my cooking.

I travel quite a bit, and this is No. 9. I travel to the gas station, and I go to the grocery store. I take my daughter to her appointments, and we see our horses, which is the most travelling I do, but if they mean to go to a sunny and warm place in the winter, I will fail. I just do not see the sense in going from -35 C, to 35 C and then back to -40 C in two weeks’ time.

Read more is last. I truly got this one. With my job I need to read and lots. I have read more in the last year than I have in the past five years. Got It.

Being mentally prepared helps. Setting a goal that can be reached is another wise move. Saying you plan to lose 50 pounds in four months is setting yourself up for failure.

I just did not make one. I do not need a new year to make goals or plans. I set them throughout the year as I know that my resolutions would be an epic failure, and who needs that kind of negativity?

I prefer to start my new year on a good note.

But then this is just my opinion.

Food that shouldn’t be out of reach

snowflakes. There was no theme or pattern to the adornments, just random items hanging from the ceiling or placed on barriers between booths.

Christmas eve at my home growing up always featured an amazing meal.

My mom brought out special linens and fancy dishes, and turned it into a beautiful occasion. I loved helping get things ready. My favourite job was getting out the silver chest and setting the table with special silverware. Even cleanup was fun when I could put all the cutlery back into its special slots in the heavy-duty chest.

The food, the atmosphere and of course the people sitting around the table with me made it a standout year after year. But sometimes what was memorable was when things got changed up a bit.

One year we left Christmas Day on a road trip to California and stopped at a family restaurant that happened to be open on the holiday. I can still picture the collection of decorations comprised of shiny stars, trees and

Given the style of place, we likely ate comfort food or burgers of some sort. It was rather unusual for us and a great deal of fun. The food, the atmosphere and of course the people sitting with me at the table made it a standout.

A friend of mine recalls with delight a Christmas Day when she was travelling with her husband and daughters, and a stop at McDonald’s was their Christmas meal. Another story shared with me was a family whose tradition of oyster stew on Christmas Eve went by the wayside when an unattended pot led to failure one year. A quickly improvised alternative has since become a new tradition – Christmas Eve macaroni and cheese.

There was a lot of talk around Thanksgiving that the rising cost of food will mean people will have to reconsider what would be on their holiday table based on what they could afford. The same discussions are taking place regarding Christmas favorites. Experts advise preparing fewer side dishes and reducing higherpriced specialties to control costs.

Tell that to the chef known for creating one of the world’s most expensive Christmas dinners. For about $200,000, you can dine on exotic fare in a meal that begins with champagne that tops out at more than $60,000, served alongside other high-priced drinks.

You are then treated to caviar splashed with balsamic vinegar that has been aged 150 years. That is followed by white truffle accompanied by a $4,000 melon.

The main dish is a rare breed of turkey served with beef heart and fillet topped with truffles and about $8,000 worth of pistachios (just bring on the pistachios for me).

This part of the meal comes wrapped in almost $10,000 of edible gold leaf.

Dessert is comprised of beans from rare coffee berries along with a type of watermelon that is grown only on the island of Hokkaido. Various high-priced spices, garnishes and specially chosen drinks paired with each course push the tab into the eye-popping digits.

Planning special meals can add to celebrations, unless of course, instead of adding joy it brings on worrisome stress because there is no way to afford the extras that make a meal a bit more special.

Regrettably, there are

many in our community, and in towns and cities across this nation and globe, that do not have the means to do what others don’t give second thought to. It’s not that they are wishing for truffles or exotic fruit, but rather some meat, maybe some potatoes, and wouldn’t a vegetable or two be nice.

We have a few days ahead of us before Christmas weekend. It may not seem like a lot of time if you are juggling lists and wondering how it is all going to get done. Imagine having no lists to juggle since there is no big shopping trip nor need to find time to make special dishes, because you simply can’t purchase the ingredients.

But a few days is more than enough time to give. Give whatever we can so that others will have a little bit more and can experience the food, the atmosphere and the people sitting around the table with them to make it a stand-out year.

As you think about a holiday meal you are looking forward to, whether it is fast food on the road to a vacation destination, or gathered around a large family table, your food will taste that much better knowing you helped ensure someone else could have their Christmas dinner as well. That’s my outlook.

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Oilfield companies form PRIMEC Controls Canada

Three familiar names in the Saskatchewan and Manitoba oil and gas sector are combining to become PRIMEC Controls Canada.

The ownership group of Estevan Meter, Virden Meter and Apollo Electric & Controls have decided to amalgamate the three businesses to provide more efficiencies for clients, while also transitioning to a brand that better represents the services offered by the companies.

The new name also aligns with their U.S. affiliate PRIMEC Controls LLC, based in Williston, N.D. PRIMEC stands for Programming, Relief valves and repairs, Instrumentation, Measurement, Electrical and Combustion controls.

A press release for the merger said the three companies have built a reputation of providing top-tier technical sales and services through highly-trained staff and strategic partnerships with world-leading product suppliers.

“Our new name better reflects who we are today, along with our intentions to grow locally as well as across Western Canada and the USA,” said president and CEO Doug Martens. “While we are rebranding with a new name, customers can expect the same great people, same great service, same management and same ownership that we’ve been known for over the past 55 years.”

“This allows us to continue offering more competitive solutions and improved efficiency for our clients,” he added later.

Martens noted that the four partners who own Estevan Meter are also majority owners of Virden Meter and Apol-

lo Electric & Controls. Virden Meter was incorporated in 2012 and Apollo opened in 2017.

The separate entities were created, in part, to attract additional partners into the business without creating any risk for Estevan Meter by introducing new partners into the larger entity. Now that they have attracted those additional partners, they believe this is the time to bring everything together.

“It’s become, for the most part, a little cumbersome to operate as three separate entities when really we’re trying to function cohesively in the marketplace,” said Martens.

Some customers receive billing from all three entities, even though they were one entity.

“Hopefully … it upgrades some cost savings for our customers, that they can streamline their vendor list, and now instead of dealing with three different suppliers, it becomes one supplier. They still get the same level of service, but they’re only getting a single invoice from a single source,” said Martens.

He stressed there won’t be any job losses from the amalgamation. It will create efficiencies internally. An employee might work for Estevan Meter one day and then work for Apollo or Virden the next.

“And then we’d have to make sure that we accounted for that internally, that the cost of that employee got allocated to the right corporate entity. Likewise with trucks, tools and equipment, and likewise with inventory. We would share inventory as well.”

The inventory would have to be transferred and properly accounted

for, which he called a cumbersome process.

“We had just simply outgrown our name, and that was the case for quite some time,” said Martens. “When we formed Apollo Electric in 2017, at that time it was sort of our intention that we might rebrand all of the entities together and have them renamed Apollo Controls.”

When they formed PRIMEC Controls in Williston about a year ago, the partners preferred the name. And when the meeting was held to combine the Canadian companies, the partners and management team liked it more.

This is also part of a potential growth and longevity strategy, he said. The company could expand to other regions in the province or Alberta and not be limited by having meter in the name.

PRIMEC will employ about 75 people.

The transition to PRIMEC Controls Canada will take effect on Jan. 1, 2023. They will need to work on communication with customers and vendors, but will still be able to complete transactions as the previous entities.

“Internally, we have a lot of heavy lifting to do, because as three separate corporate entities, we had three different accounting environments, a number of different … designations in terms of safety, quality control, programs and all of those kinds of things, so some of those things don’t have to happen prior to the January 1st deadline and some of them do,” said Martens.

PRIMEC’s sponsorships and advertising in the regions will be slowly updated over time, he said.

13-24-7-10 264349 Tundra Oil & Gas Hz 12-34-2-30 262900 Rok Resources Hz 14-32-2-1 262901 Rok Resources Hz 14-32-2-1 262904 Rok Resources Hz 15-10-4-5 262908 Rok Resources Hz 15-10-4-5 263712 Harvard Resources Hz 4-16-6-15

Rig Report

95A112 Panther Drilling Valleyview Petroleum 5-14-6-14 10B279 Panther Drilling Valleyview Petroleum 8-31-6-13 106465 Stampede Drilling Whitecap Resources 3-31-2-2 236390 Stampede Drilling Surge Energy 4-9-5-8 260395 Alliance Drilling Hummingbird Energy 12-21-4-6 112743 Betts Drilling Burgess Creek 6-26-6-31 261198 Betts Drilling Adonai Resources 2-6-3-33 259566 Stampede Drilling Surge Energy 5-9-5-8 256563 Precision Drilling Crescent Point Energy 15-22-11-6 256108 Stampede Drilling Pemoco Ltd. 10-26-10-3 125057 Stampede Drilling Whitecap Resources 5-5-3-2 259795 Betts Drilling Villanova Energy 13-18-6-5 253467 Betts Drilling Villanova Energy 13-14-6-6

Estevan Meter, Virden Meter and Apollo Electric & Controls have come together on a merger. Photo courtesy of Robert Godfrey with Lemon Wedge Marketing

Taylor Hoey is a dedicated firefighter in Carlyle

By Gord Paulley

Taylor Hoey is a local resident who has been a member of Carlyle Fire and Rescue since 2014.

This organization consists of 20 men and two women who are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They pledge an oath to protect the area from fires and accidents and to ultimately save property and lives.

In 2020, Hoey was appointed by his fellow firefighters to become captain of the squad. He ranks directly below that of Fire Chief Don Van Meer and Deputy Fire Chiefs Rob Klassen, Tra-

vis Van Meer and Brent Stillwell.

“I was working as a mechanic at Merit Ford and was asked to the join the fire department. I said yes and have found it to be a very rewarding experience. It’s important to be able to help others in a time of need and I am very proud of what we do,” said Hoey.

Added Klassen, “Taylor is a dedicated firefighter. Work permitting, he is one of the first to respond to a call and takes his captain’s role very seriously. He is a great volunteer.”

Carlyle is one of several towns, villages, and rural

municipalities in southeast Saskatchewan that also belong to Red Coat Mutual Aid. Red Coat is also the first to respond to vehicle collisions and other life-threatening situations.

“Training in both firefighting and life and death accident situations is very important for Carlyle Fire and Rescue and the members of our team,” said Hoey. “We are fortunate that every six months, the Saskatchewan Volunteer Firefighters Association conduct regular training schools. The next one is scheduled for Pilot Butte in April 2023. I am really looking forward to at-

tending and improving my skills.”

On average, Carlyle Fire and Rescue responds to 50 and 70 calls every year. While they presently have 22 members, more are needed.

“Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding experience. If anyone is interested, please do not hesitate to give us a call,” said Hoey.

Hoey, 29, lives in Manor with his partner Teanna Dukart. Daughter Tatum is nine, and daughter Tenley will be one-year-old on Dec. 30. He is employed as a warehouseman with Secure Energy Services.

Arcola Daycare celebrates Christmas-themed open house

By Stephanie Zoer

A special visitor came to Arcola Daycare on Dec. 12 and his name was Santa Claus.

Arcola Daycare is a non-profit organization that was established in 2008. It works with families in Arcola and the surrounding areas to offer quality care to the children.

According to Kayla Brown, the director of the daycare, they provide developmentally-appropriate programming to encourage

healthy growth and development for children ages six weeks to 12 years of age.

The facility is licensed for 29 full-time children and currently these spots are all filled. It is their hope to add more spaces at some point down the road. They also have casual care for 30 kids that come on a regular basis.

It is currently the only licensed daycare between Stoughton and Redvers.

Brown runs the dayto-day operations, and the volunteer board of directors look after the

fundraising and work directly with Brown.

Eleven people are employed at the daycare and play a key role in the quality care of the children.

Due to COVID-19, the annual Christmas-themed open house was put on hold for two years, but they were excited about bringing it back this year with the help of the staff

The event ran from 6-7:30 p.m. Santa was on hand to have pictures taken with the children. Christmas crafts were

also part of the evening.

Kids enjoyed having their faces painted, while decorating some cookies to be eaten or taken home.

Several families came to attend the event while

temperatures outside remained mild.

Their next big fundraiser is the annual Ladies Night Out, which is held at the Arcola Prairie Place Hall. This event is scheduled for March

11, and is the main fundraiser for the daycare. Funds from this event go towards upkeep and renovations of the daycare building, to keep the children in a safe place.

Carlyle Fire & Rescue captain Taylor Hoey. Photo by Gord Paulley

From left, Maverick, Dave and Makayla McGregor enjoyed decorating cookies at the Arcola Daycare on Dec. 12. Photo by Kayla Brown

by Stephanie Zoer

Photos

Always find a safe ride, impaired driving penalties are tough, says SGI

“Whatever your holidays plans, find a safe ride home,” says SGI ahead of Christmas. “Festive time with family and friends is meant to be enjoyed responsibly.”

Tyler McMurchy, media relations and communications manager with SGI, says they still see many impaired driving offences reported in Saskatchewan.

Through SGI’s monthly traffic safety spotlights, law enforcement across Saskatchewan reported an average of 378 impaired driving offences each month over the 12-month period, from November 2021 to October 2022.

“Each month we saw an average of 280 Criminal Code charges and 98 administrative suspensions, those are those results from provincial sanctions, either violating zero tolerance for drug-impaired driving or somebody who exceeded the provincial limits, but not the federal limit that would trigger a Criminal Code charge,” McMurchy explained.

He added that the numbers for impaired driving offences are pretty parallel to what they’ve seen in previous years. However, the impairment by drugs among Saskatchewan drivers is now detected more often.

“We are seeing more people being suspended for drug-impaired driving if they’re caught using cannabis, or they’re flagged with cannabis in their system while driving. Police do have those roadside oral fluid testers that they can test drivers, so it might not necessarily be the case of more drivers doing it, just more drivers being caught,” McMurchy said.

“It’s difficult to say at this point. We are going to keep an eye on not just the offence numbers because that can be very much a function of the level of enforcement and the focus of police, but also on the numbers that we see in terms of collisions caused by impaired driving and the injuries and fatalities that result,” McMurchy

added, noting that they don’t have up to date collision data yet for 2022, as some investigations are still underway.

He also reminded the public that the decision to drive impaired results in many tough consequences and the penalties are costly.

“I think people need to be aware of just the number of consequences that do result from being caught driving impaired, and even a scenario where you may not have caused a collision, you may not have injured or killed somebody, the consequences are already quite significant,” McMurchy said.

The penalties do vary depending on whether the driver is new or experienced, the level of alcohol or drug impairment, and if it’s a first offence. But the conviction in any of the offences such as driving

with a .08 blood alcohol content or over, driving while impaired, failing or refusing to comply with a roadside screening device breath demand, being over the legal limit for drugs or a combination alcohol and drugs, result in an immediate roadside licence suspension that is in effect until the charges are resolved in court.

Besides, if a driver is charged criminally, their vehicle is impounded for 30 days. Upon conviction, they will have some very significant fines, and depending on the circumstances of the case, the fines can go up and a driver might even be looking at jail time.

Upon conviction, a driver will also have to go through a mandatory impaired driving education course and install an ignition interlock.

“There’s a number of formal punishments and consequences that result from impaired driving, not to mention the social cost. Does it affect your employment? Does it affect your relationships? Those are the kinds of things that we want people to consider. And that’s, I think, a really good list of reasons as to why you should always find a safe ride home if you’ve been drinking or using anything else that impairs you,” McMurchy said.

The season for office parties, hangouts with friends and family gatherings has begun, and SGI reminds the public to keep the fun safe.

The December Traffic Safety Spotlight focuses on impaired driving, which comes with additional enforcement by police.

“The best present you can give someone is your presence,” said SGI president and CEO Penny McCune. “By always having a safe ride, you can be there for them this year and for many holidays to come.”

“If you’re getting into the spirits of the season, or if that yule log isn’t the only thing that’s blazing, make sure you know how you’re getting ho-ho-home safe and sound,” says SGI.

Police across Saskatchewan and in Estevan will be highly visible through-

out the holiday season, conducting check stops and other forms of impaired driving enforcement. Any drivers may be asked to provide a quick breath sample into an approved screening device to ensure they haven’t been drinking.

“We would just like to wish everybody a happy holiday season. Of course, this is a time that people are going to be getting together with friends and family. And we want people to have a good time and enjoy themselves. But it’s just really important that at the end of the evening, they find a safe ride home,” McMurchy said. “So, whether that’s a designated driver or a taxi, or any other avenues that might be available to them, it’s very important that you always find a safe ride home. There’s never a good excuse to drive impaired.”

SGI also reminds people that sober driving is vital at any time of the year.

“Holiday season or not, you should always #FindASafeRide,” SGI says.

A few safe alternatives to driving impaired include calling a sober friend or family member to come pick you up; selecting a designated driver for your group (or volunteer to be one); taking a cab or staying the night.

A crackdown on impaired driving is happening this month in Saskatchewan. Photo by Nes / Moment / Getty Images

Talented singer supports local long-term care residents

By Stephanie Zoer

Rein Dela Pena wanted to spread Christmas love and joy to the longterm facilities in her area.

“The residents enjoy visitors and love to sing,” she said.

Rein came to Canada seven years ago with her parents Chris Morson and Regemma Dela Pena from the Philippines. She is an only child, but said she loves it and has lots of cousins to hang out with.

This 13-year-old young woman is in Grade 8, goes to the Kennedy-Langbank School and soon will attend the Kipling School.

Around the age of three, Rein would sing around the house, and by the time she was six years old she began to perform in front of an audience.

This began in the Philippines, singing at her

school and at little miss pageants.

Her desire to sing has continued, taking online singing lessons from her voice coach.

Rein sang the national anthem at two Saskatchewan Roughrider games this past summer. It came as a surprise to the young singer when her dad informed her that the voice coach had set up the opportunity. She admits to being nervous just before she went out on the field, but once she started to sing, the nerves all went away.

Her mom, Regemma works at the long-term care facilities in Kipling and Wawota. Last year she suggested her daughter sing at the homes and offer some Christmas love. The elder Regemma said her daughter instantly agreed to do this and it is now the second year.

Rein already spread the joy in Moosomin on Nov. 30. This was the first year in Moosomin and according to the family,

the residents enjoyed the performance.

This year a few businesses have backed her performances, by provid-

ing gifts and high-end bath products for the residents.

Rein will also sing at the Christmas dinner and concert at the St. Anne’s Parish in Kennedy, singing Christmas and Christian songs.

On Dec. 15, Rein will be at Carlyle long-term care home at 2 p.m., Dec. 16 she will be in Kipling at 2 p.m. and the following day she will be in Wawota at 2:30 p.m.

She will perform Christmas songs, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Marie Osmond and Paul Anka.

“These artists are better known by the older people,” said Rein, but she enjoys the 90’s music as that is what her dad listens to.

For the fourth year in a row, she will be on Telemiracle in February. She is pretty excited to be doing this again in 2023.

Regemma feels strongly

Headaches - a symptom with many causes

estrogen and progesterone imbalances);

We have all experienced a headache now and again, but for some, they are a common occurrence rather than an occasional annoyance.

Headaches can be triggered by:

•Allergies (that increases sinus pressure);

•Stress (that causes muscle tension);

•Fatigue (that reduces our immune function);

•Eyestrain (that stresses our brains);

•Poor posture (that can strain neck and shoulder muscles);

•Alcohol or drugs (which can dehydrate us and cause toxic reactions);

•Low blood sugar (that starves our brains of energy);

•Hormones (specifically

•Constipation (that leads to toxin build up); and

•Nutritional deficiencies (such as magnesium).

They are not generally triggered by a lack of Tylenol or Advil.

Headaches are your body’s way of telling you that something needs to change.

Here are some tried and true remedies that can help.

Diet: Switch to gluten free. Some people are very sensitive to the main protein in wheat, gluten, and for many it can trigger headaches. Try avoiding all gluten (wheat, rye, spelt, kamut and barley) for three weeks to see if it helps reduce headaches and then slowly reintroduce gluten, and if you get headaches again, you’ll have your answer.

Hydration: It seems like a no-brainer, but many people are chronically dehydrated and the dehydrating effects of coffee, sugary drinks and alcohol can certainly exacerbate the situation.

Try to drink half of your bodyweight in ounces of water each day.

Hormone balance: Many women suffer headaches prior to their periods, often due to too much estrogen and too little progesterone. Getting hormones back into balance will help reduce these PMS headaches.

Supplements. Magnesium is a magical mineral that is one of the most successful headache remedies. It is much safer than taking painkillers and often people who suf-

fer from headaches, like migraines, often have low levels of magnesium.

Taking 200–600 milligrams of magnesium a day can reduce the frequency of headache attacks.

Also, many B-vitamins are involved in the formation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which may be deficient in people who suffer from migraines.

Generally well-tolerated, taking either a B-complex or 400 milligrams per day of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) can decrease pain associated with migraine attacks, as well as the duration and frequency of episodes.

Peppermint and/or lavender essential oils: The calming and numbing effects of both peppermint

and lavender oils make them perfect tools for finding headache relief.

Peppermint oil generates a long-lasting cooling effect on the skin. Research shows that peppermint oil stimulates a significant increase in skin blood flow of the forehead, and it soothes muscle contractions.

Lavender oil is commonly used as a mood stabilizer and sedative. Research has shown that the

about spreading joy and love, not only at Christmas but always. Regemma believes that music and singing is a universal language that is understood by everyone.

“It is the best love we can give our old parents,” said Regemma.

She is immensely proud of her daughter for doing this. She finds it is such a joy to see the residents’ faces light up and sing along.

“It is inspiring to hear our daughter sing,” said Regemma.

They have been asked how people can help, and Regemma said: “They love visits and often do not have family close by. Most homes have a secret Santa program as well, when you buy a gift and or treats for one of the residents.”

Rein and her parents hope to fill the homes with singing and laugher.

use of lavender oil is a safe and effective treatment of migraine headaches.

Take advantage of their benefits by placing a few drops of peppermint or lavender oil into your hands and then rubbing the blend on your forehead, temples and back of neck. If the smell is too strong for you, or if the peppermint is too chilling, dilute it down by mixing the essential oils with almond or coconut oil.

Rein Dela Pena is looking to spread Christmas cheer to long-term care facilities. Photo by Regemma Dela Pena

Submitted by Dr. Wendy Davis

Carlyle Minor Ball receives a donation

Carlyle Minor Ball, working in tandem with the Carlyle District Lions Club, was able to refurbish all six ball diamond infields at Lions Park. The entire cost of the project was $70,000, with the work completed in October by J & J Trucking of Arcola. The Town of Carlyle and the RM of Moose Mountain have a capital funding program which is used to help volunteer organizations in their area with capital expenditures and more. For this project, the committee approved Carlyle Minor Ball $15,000. The remaining funds needed were provided by Minor Ball, the Lions Club and several private business donors. Pictured from left are RM of Moose Mountain administrator Christy Hislop, Carlyle Minor Ball representative Brandy East and Town of Carlyle council member Jared Riddell.

Eight games, eight different winners in the Big Six Hockey League

It was another busy weekend in the Big Six Hockey League, with eight games on the schedule.

The Oxbow Huskies captured one of the top games of the weekend, a back-and-forth, 5-4 victory over the Moosomin Rangers.

Derek Cooney’s goal 5:45 into the third period proved to be the winner. Braden Brock, Kelby Widenmaier, Steven Henderson and Colton Schell had the Huskies’ other goals. Cody Levesque was in goal.

Bud Holloway scored twice for Moosomin, while Drayson Skulmoski and Monty Driver also had goals. Kyler Beckett was in net for the Rangers.

The Bienfait Coalers defeated the Arcola-Kisbey Combines 6-4. Daniel Wanner scored the winner 5:33 into the third period.

Kaelan Holt, Taysen Holt, Wyatt Garagan, Klae Bayda and Ryan Curzon were the Coalers’ other scorers.

Duane Hislop, Kaden Tuchscherer, Maverick Gusikoski and Austin Fleck scored for Arcola-Kisbey.

Colin Quennelle was the goalie for Bienfait, while Keegan Mitchell was the Combines’ netminder.

The Carnduff Red Devils beat the Kipling-Windthorst Oil Kings 5-3. Cole Barreth, Ben Hiltz, Nico Anderson, Matthew Plews and Devon Carriere had the Red Devils’ markers.

Drew Czerwonka had two goals for the Oil Kings, and Ty Kotylak also scored.

Cody Dumaine (Carnduff ) and Dylan Dedecker (KiplingWindthorst) were the goalies.

Three more games were played on Saturday. The Redvers Rockets trounced the Carlyle Cougars 9-1. Jon Gaudet opened the scoring for Carlyle 8:32 into the first period, but Kenton Miller tied the game 11 seconds later.

Presten Kopeck had three goals and two assists for Redvers, and Miller added two goals. Kevin Mann, Todd Gervais, Kelsey Kenler and Bradey Fidierchuk also scored for Redvers.

Ryan Kulyk and Zane Winter split the goaltending duties for Carlyle. Thomas Bauche was the Rockets’ goaltender.

The Wawota Flyers scored five times in the first period and four more in the second to defeat the Combines 9-2. Jesse Gabrielle had four goals and three assists for seven points,

and Devin Stewart had three goals and three assists. Ayden Lawless and Degan Galbraith also scored.

Lucas Fleck had both goals for the Combines.

Kye Steinke was the goalie for the Flyers and Zac Eaton was the Combines’ netminder.

The Yellow Grass Wheat Kings shelled the Oil Kings 11-1. Zach Douglas and Brandt Hudson each scored twice for Yellow Grass, while Kyle Crozier, Dylan Frey, Andrew Hulbert, Dylan Frey, Judson Christopherson and Burke Johnstone also scored. Jesse Watson finished with four helpers.

Braeden Wozniak had the Oil Kings’ tally.

Nolan Bergen (Yellow Grass) and Winston Grayson (Kipling-Windthorst) were the goalies.

The Midale Mustangs edged the Carlyle Cougars 4-3 on Sunday. Connor Burk scored in the first period for Midale, and Tayler Thompson, Steven Lindenbach and Kendall Oliver tallied in the middle frame for a 4-0 advantage.

Jayden Hansen, Zach Brown and Dakota Rose had goals for Carlyle in a five-minute span of the third to make the game interesting.

Zane Winter (Carlyle) and Talen King (Midale) were the goalies.

The Rangers trounced the Flyers 10-4. Wawota had a 3-2 lead in the first period on goals by Devin Stewart, Brady Dinwoodie and Nolan Murray, but the Rangers took over from there.

Dylan Lamontagne had the other Wawota goal.

Bud Holloway had four goals and two assists for the Rangers. Carter Sewchuk had three goals, Drayson Skulmoski added two and Brayden Nabholz also scored.

Kye Steinke was in goal for Wawota, while Levi Horn was the Moosomin goalie.

Nine games are scheduled for the coming weekend. Games for Dec. 16 are Arcola-Kisbey at Kipling-Windthorst, Wawota at Redvers, Carlyle at Oxbow and Yellow Grass at Midale.

The following day, Oxbow will be at Midale, Carnduff will visit Yellow Gras, Kipling-Windthorst will visit Redvers and Carlyle be at Arcola-Kisbey. All games will start at 8 p.m., except for Oxbow at Midale, which starts at 6:30 p.m.

The Yellow Grass Wheat Kings will visit the Moosomin Rangers on Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.

Carlyle Minor Hockey sets fundraising record

By Gord Paulley

For the past five years, an Ogies Perogies sale has been Carlyle Minor Hockey’s largest and most valuable fundraising distributor.

A record 1,100 boxes of product were delivered to the Carlyle Sports Arena on Dec. 10.

Ogies packages many frozen food products including perogies, pizzas, pies, dry ribs and chicken fingers. Minor hockey parents start taking pre-orders in October with the product available for pickup by Christmas.

The boxes were delivered to the Sports Arena and are already being distributed to customers in Carlyle and area.

Jenna Brady is the treasurer of Carlyle Minor Hockey and its fundraising chairperson.

“The support of our community is outstanding when it comes to keeping our kids on the ice,” said Brady. “Ogies is our biggest fundraiser, and we make enough to keep hockey affordable for families in Carlyle, which has always been the goal of our volunteer board.”

Photo by Gord Paulley

Carlyle Minor Hockey fundraising chairwoman Jenna Brady and the mountain of boxes delivered by Ogies Perogies to the Carlyle Sports Arena. Photo courtesy of Jenna Brady

Local author holds successful book launch in Manor

By Gord Paulley

Well-known author and local resident Corinne Hewitt recently hosted a successful book launch at the Manor Public Library.

Jacob’s Secret is the fourth book in her Abbington Pickets series.

Jacob of Abbington Pickets was the first novel, which was written and published in 2015. Jacob’s Place and Letters from Jacob followed.

The series is classified as Christian historical fiction and the characters and stories centre around a fictional town from 120 years ago, not unlike Cannington Manor.

This book chronicles life from over a century ago and Jacob’s Secret reached No. 1 in the Hot New Releases in 20th Century Historical Romance, and No. 2 in Christian Mystery and Christian Historical Fiction on Amazon.

Despite being launched only a week ago, there have been wonderful book reviews on various websites.

The book launch at the Manor Public Library was well attended and Hewitt was extremely pleased with the turnout.

“This is my seventh publication and I have thoroughly enjoyed writing each and every one of them. The support from family and friends has been overwhelming and I am grateful. Being an author is far more rewarding than I could have imagined,” said Hewitt.

“I give God all the glory for my accomplishments. He has given me many gifts, answered countless prayers and blessed me far more than I deserve and for that I am truly grateful.”

On the evening of the launch, son Joshua made a live cameo appearance dressed as the Jacob Hudson character. His picture also graces the cover of all four books.

Hewitt grew up in the RM of Moose Mountain near Cowper Creek, located northeast of Carlyle. In the summer of 2021, she and her husband Ken-

ny returned home from Alberta. Even though they live in Carlyle,

they spent much of the summer at the farm where she enjoys gar-

dening, baking bread and making homemade butter. She has taken a year off from quilting but eagerly plans to return to that pastime this winter.

One review on Amazon stated, “What a wonderful book. Get transported back in time and experience the love, trials and tribulations of the Hudson family in the small town of Abbington Pickets. I truly enjoyed the historical aspects, intrigue, characters and their captivating story, a must read.

Another read, “Historical fiction with romance and mystery all in one beautifully written book. I hope there is a book five in this series.”

And another said, “I hope there are many books to follow that I can share with everyone I know who loves a good story. Canadian writing doesn’t get any better than this.”

There is also a review from John-Michael Lander, author of Surface Tension and Cracked Surface.

“Although this is the

fourth book in the Abbington Pickets Series, it is beautifully written and can stand on its own. Jacob returns home from serving in WW1, hoping to find his devoted wife, family, and community as they were when he left, but secrets are quietly getting in the way.

“Jacob’s Secret is a faith-based story for everyone and provides that truth always finds a path through the cacophonous noise within and outside each of us. H.C. Hewitt has a gift for creating a stunning background and developing complex characters that make you hang on to every word. I highly recommend this book and the series.”

The entire Abbington Picket Series of novels can be purchased online or directly from Hewitt herself. As for whether she plans on releasing another book, she grinned and promptly replied, “I already have ideas for another novel and am hopeful for my fifth book in the series to be published by the end of 2023.”

Arcola Main Street Christmas was a big success

By Stephanie Zoer

The sun was shining and a slight breeze was present at the Arcola Main Street Christmas on Dec. 10, when over 500 people young and old came to enjoy the festivities.

A trade and craft show hosted 30 vendors from the surrounding areas, with loads of items to choose from, was located at the Arcola Prairie Place Complex. The show ran from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Also at the complex was free skating. This event brought many to the rink, while others enjoyed the pancake breakfast.

At the Optimist-Legion Hall, 15 entries were seen for the gingerbread house contest. First place went to Arcola Building Supplies for the business and organization category. For the family

entry, Curtis and Michelle Johnson and boys finished first, while top spot went to Ben Maker for under eight years. First prize in the 15 and under went to Rayna Forseth. The fan favourite was given to Curtis and Michelle Johnson and boys, with over 180 people placing their votes.

The Arcola Library was a busy place as youngsters made their own gingerbread men and the church had cookie decorating, which was well received.

A huge hill was constructed by the town near the outdoor rink. It had many children on it trying out their skills on their sleds, while the rink saw many hockey games and skaters throughout the day.

Around 4 p.m. the Arcola Co-op started up the fire as it was time for hot-

dog roasting and marshmallows. To warm up, they had hot chocolate.

All the stores remained open through the day and offered bargains and treats.

At 5:30 p.m., an auction was held to sell homemade pies. The sale had over 25 pies and this went well, according to Sarah Rickard, one of the organizers.

Another big hit was the magic show at the Mac Murray Theatre, which also hosted a movie later in the evening.

The Christmas tree was decorated by the Grade 1-5 students from the Arcola School.

The event ended with a hockey game at the rink between the Arcola-Kisbey Combines and the Wawota Flyers.

Rickard and her partner Cathy Burton are extremely pleased with the turnout and very thankful

to those who took the time to help and volunteer. “This event could not

happen without all the community’s help,” said Rickard.

Steven Bonk, MLA for Moosomin Constituency

Steven Bonk, MLA for Moosomin Constituency

622 Main St., Moosomin, SK

622 St. Moosomin, SK

Phone: 306-435-4005

Phone: 306-435-4005

Email: stevenbonkmla@sasktel.net

Email: stevenbonkmla@sasktel.net

Of ce Hours: Monday - Friday

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday

9 am - 12 noon; 1 pm - 4 pm

Carlyle Cubs Lear ning Center Learning is hiring a Daycare Director as well a as as Early Childhood Educators. as Early Educators. Director positions requires ECE 3 or an exemption for someone studying for level 3 Early Childhood Educators with level 1, 2 or 3 are an asset but not mandatory for application.

Rickard and Burton look forward to next year’s event.

Three-year-old Ivy Mutz loved making her gingerbread man at the Arcola Library during the Main Street Christmas. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Corinne Hewitt and her newest novel, Jacob’s Secret, at the Manor Library book launch. Photo by Corinne Hewitt

Bargain Shop in Carlyle supports lodge

By Gord Paulley

For the third year in a row, the local Bargain Shop has delivered Christmas gifts to the Moose Mountain Lodge.

Presents will be distributed to all residents on Dec. 25. Melanie Brenner is the Bargain Shop store manager.

“With cash donations received from various individuals and businesses, we were able to package several presents for each of the

residents. Everyone in the home will receive new pillows, pillowcases and various other goodies. One lucky resident will also receive the ultimate fun gift, an elf on the shelf.”

The Moose Mountain Lodge greatly appreciates the generosity of the Carlyle Bargain Shop. Said employee Bertha Isleifson, “Thank-you Melanie and to the entire community. Your gifts will bring smiles to the residents of the Moose Mountain Lodge.”

Act One Productions in Alida holds casting meeting

By Edel Cowan

Act One Productions held a casting meeting on Dec. 6, in which they were able to select five actors for the March 2023 production.

The play that was chosen was I Take This Man, a screwball farce by Jack Sharky. The five performers are Shanna

Carriere, Tim Cowan, Wes and Rachelle Smith, and Sheldon Kyle. Good luck, actors. Have fun and we’ll see you in March.

On Dec. 10, the tickets went on sale. There was a fairly good turnout. Half of the seats for the Saturday dinner theater were sold and about half of the seats for the Fri-

day cocktail theatre were gobbled up.

Tickets are now available at the Alida Post Office during their business hours. Either come pick up your tickets whenever you are in town or you can phone Linda at 306-577-3155 to reserve your tickets and pick them up when in town.

Or she may even let you reserve, pay for your tickets, then pick up at the door the day of the production night you selected. Have any questions? She will try her best to answer them. Drama week is on March 9-11, and a Sunday matinee will be March 12.

Also keep a watch out for posters, Facebook

postings, etc. Just ask around, someone will be able to direct you. Remember this production is being presented in recognition of Lynette Peet, who was very much involved with the club.

Looking for a unique Christmas gift? Alida has the answer. We have our history books, Reflections of Reciprocity

Volumes 1 and 2, which are a set, and volume 3 available and can also be picked up at the post office, as well as the new drama tickets. Please keep me posted of any news happenings in and around Alida or within your family. All news helps make this column interesting and is appreciated.

Carlyle Bargain Shop manager Melanie Brenner, and Moose Mountain Lodge employees Bertha Isleifson, Raelene Wiggins-Elliot and Jaime Brimner displaying the large assortment of gifts. Photo by Gord Paulley

The Carlyle Observer Box 160,

OBITUARIES

Carl Jerry Englot, late of Manor, SK, passed away at Wawota, SK on Monday, December 5, 2022 at the age of 95 years.

He was predeceased by his wife Audrey in 2010; siblings Lucy Gorniak, Lena Karpinski, Peter Englot, Millie Waldinger, Tony Englot, Joe Englot, Chester Englot, Frank Englot, and Julien Englot; daughter-in-law Shawna in 2018; and parents Paul and Nellie.

Carl is survived by his seven children Leslie Englot, Eileen (Peter) Syhlonyk, Elaine (Ray) Efford, Marilyn (Brian) Ostropolski, Wesley (Donna) Englot, Lester (Cecilia) Englot, Ashley (Roxanne) Englot; twenty five grandchildren; forty six great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; siblings Nellie Kotylak, Bernice Thibault, Cecilia Kotylak, Lawrence (Carole) Englot, Caroline Schmidt, Pauline (Frank) Clements, and Stephanie (Wayne) Flaman; brothers-in-law and sistersin-law; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service for Carl was held at the Manor Cemetery in Manor, SK on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. with the Reverend Michelle Moore officiating.

Memorial Donations in Carl’s name may be made to the Manor Community Hall, P.O. Box 295, Manor, SK, S0C 1R0. Arrangements entrusted to Orsted-Carlyle Funeral Home.

Theodore (Ted) VanRybroek 1929 - 2022

Ted was born Jan 10 1929 in the town of Erp in Holland.

He was the 5th of 11 children. He came to Canada in 1954 at the age of 25. Not long after coming to Canada Dad found the love of his life (mom). Dina was from Holland also. July 5 1956 they were married and moved to Bienfait area where Dad worked for the next 10 years at the Briquette Plant.

They started a family. Five girls. Odilia, Maryanne, Donna, Emily and Brenda.

In 1966 we moved to south of Manor. Dads dream was to farm in Canada. Dad and Mom worked hard running a mixed farm and raising us girls. He worked very hard to make his dream happen and took great pride in his farm.

After the kids grew up Dad and Mom started to travel. They loved it and went to many places. Cruises were their favorite. Dad always had lots of stories.

In 2017 Mom got sick and they moved to Carlyle to be closer for care. It was hard for him to leave his farm. Dad walked alot at the farm. He knew every inch of the place. People in town have seen him walk as he continued to go for walks in town. Mom passed away in 2019. Dad took such good care of her till then. He missed her so much.

Dad clearly was failing after she went. On Nov 15 2022 dad passed away in Estevan after a six week stay in both nursing home and hospital. He was 93 years old.

Ted leaves 5 daughters their spouses grandchildren and great grandchildren. Three brothers and two sisters in Holland and a very special nephew Gerard in Holland.

On behalf of the family I would like to thank Lampman nursing home and St Joseph’s hospital in Estevan for the excellent care he received. Also thanks to Orsted funeral home and Reverend Father Chris Juchacz for the lovely graveside service. Thank you for all the flowers messages calls food and cards. “Dad” we will miss you but we know you are with Mom The Family.

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Alameda man charged with attempted murder

A report of an alleged probation breach led to a situation in which a man is now facing charges for attempted murder.

In a news release, the Saskatchewan RCMP said that on Dec. 7 at approximately 3:45 p.m., the Carnduff RCMP received a report of an adult male breaching the conditions of his probation in Alameda.

Officers responded to a residence in the town. The RCMP says the man answered the door and the officers told him he was under arrest.

“The male did not comply and went into the house

and retrieved a firearm,” the RCMP said in the news release. “An altercation occurred which included the discharge of a firearm by the responding police officers.”

No physical injuries were reported and the man was then arrested without further incident.

After investigation by the Saskatchewan RCMP’s General Investigation Section, Theodore Allan Brycks, 67, of Alameda has been charged with two counts of attempted murder of a police officer under Section 239(1)(a) of the Criminal Code, and four counts of failing to comply with a probation order under Section 733.1(1) of the Criminal Code.

He was scheduled to appear in Regina Provincial Court on Dec. 9. The charges have not been proven in court.

As this matter is before the courts, the RCMP says it has no additional details to share at this time.

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Carl Jerry Englot 1927 - 2022

Village of Manor ready for Christmas

The Village of Manor held their annual Christmas parade recently.

With participation from the local fire department, over 60 goodie bags were handed out to the children at the library and pictures were taken with Santa.

Two judges from Carlyle, Dennis Feduk and Gord Paulley, were chaperoned around town by Mayor Lucille Dunn. Homes were judged for their

winter lights and decorations and winners declared as follows:

Overall: Duane and Candy Bye; Traditional: Brayden Rowley, first, and Karen Rowley, second;

Novelty: Digette Morrisseau and Rueben Laquette, first place, and Melanie Brenner and Tristan Penner, second; Religious: Vicky Thul, first place.

Wawota Lions show support for seniors by serving supper

By Myrna Olson

The Wawota Lions Club served supper to the seniors of the community on Dec. 5.

This was the 53rd year they have held this event. After a great meal of ham and turkey, we were entertained by Ryan Bend-

er and Lorne Frappe from Moosomin. They also raffled off several door prizes. The museum also picked the winners of their Christmas hampers.

Marie Vail has returned home after spending a couple of weeks in Winnipeg visiting with

her daughter Shirley and other family members.

Congratulations to Owen Garratt, a former Wawota resident who is now a published author. Owen’s recently-released book, The Pulse, is No. 1 on Amazon in Canada for apocalyptic science fiction, No. 3 in the U.S. for

disaster fiction and No. 313 in the United Kingdom on Amazon for Canadian adult fiction. Owen designed the cover.

He has two sequels with projected release dates of February and May 2023. Owen and his wife Karla and two sons live in Spruce Grove,

Alta. Karla is expanding her store The Barn Owl in January, Hudson has just completed his EMT training and Harding is completing his Grade 12.

The Wawota Book Club met for the last time in 2022 on Dec. 12. They met at the Village Inn to discuss the book Still

Alice by Lisa Genova. It is the story of a woman who is a 50-year-old Harvard professor of cognitive psychology who is coping with an early onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Happy birthday to my good friend, Shirley Corkish. She will celebrate her 80th birthday on Dec. 18.

The Lumsden Street home of Digette Morrisseau and Rueben Laquette, winners of the novelty competition. Photo by Gord Paulley

Manor Fire Department led a parade. Photo submitted by Tory Poirier

The Beckton Street home of Duane and Candy Bye, first place overall winner. Photo by Gord Paulley

Carnduff and Area Beef 4-H Club The Scoop

Submitted by Fallyn Shier

November has been an eventful month for Carnduff Beef 4-H members.

We held our monthly general meeting on Nov. 2 at the Carnduff Education Complex, followed by our first project meeting of the year. Each family was gifted two board games about agriculture and beef production.

We got to learn how

to play them, and each family got to take the games home.

Later in the month, some of our members attended the District 41 Rally. This event took place on Nov. 18, hosted by the Glen Ewen Trailblazers at the Communiplex. There was a potluck supper, dessert action and games. All clubs in the area are invited to attend.

Finally, our club hosted a steak fund-

raiser on Nov. 25 at the Glen Ewen Communiplex. We sold 123 supper tickets. There was a silent and online auction. Members were kept busy all night helping run the event.

We ended the evening with a club Minute It to Win It competition. Fun was had by all.

Christmas in Oxbow spreads holiday spirit in the town

By Ana Bykhovskaia

The Town of Oxbow hosted a community-wide Christmas event on Dec. 1.

Main Street was decorated, and Oxbow turned into a Christmas town with many different festive stations. The day featured a community chili supper, a live nativity scene, carols and entertainment, tree lighting by Councillors Rod Rabanal and Ron Rossow, fire trucks and department tours, street hockey with the senior Huskies, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, turkey bingo at the Oxbow branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, cookie decorating and hot chocolate, Christmas cut-outs, advent book bundles, a letters to Santa station and more.

People could also get a good start on their Christmas shopping locally with a farmers’ market, while businesses stayed open late and offered specials and draws.

Oxbow community development officer Treena Mohrbutter said a lot of people partook in different events and activities that day. About 120 people enjoyed the supper, over 100 children stopped by to decorate cookies, and about the same number of kids came to visit and take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and to write letters to the North Pole. About 70-80 kids used the opportunity and were really excited to play hockey with the senior team.

Mohrbutter noted that the event helped spread the holiday spirit and brought the community together.

“It was really community-based, it was about giving back,” Mohrbutter said. “It was truly amazing

to see all the community organizations that came out and all the businesses that hosted something. They planned that on their own really and then just sent it to me … They

thought of what they wanted to do, and then did something. It all was separate all over downtown, all over Main Street.”

Thanks to this strong community effort, Mohr-

butter received a lot of positive feedback, and some people said they didn’t have enough time because there was so much to do during Christmas in Oxbow.

“I was blown away by the community engagement of all the groups and the businesses. It was a pleasant surprise to see that everyone wanted to be involved in it,” Mohrbutter said.

While most things were free, there were a couple of opportunities for people to give back. Donations collected during the community supper were destined for the Oxbow Prairie Horizon School’s industrial arts shop to buy new power tools. And proceeds from turkey bingo at the legion were directed to the local food bank.

Mohrbutter added that events were really intertwined, as different businesses and organizations worked together to bring something for the people and also to benefit each other.

“I just wanted to make a point of how intertwined it was within the community, like, proceeds from supper were donated to the school. And photo cut-outs that were around town were sponsored by Timbermart, they donated all supplies, and it was actually the homeschooling group students who made them. It was just neat to see the collaboration amongst all the groups,” Mohrbutter said.

Christmas in Oxbow was an annual tradition for years in the last week of November. COVID put things on pause until now, when the event was brought back but a bit later than in the past.

The list of all the sponsors and organizations that made Christmas in Oxbow possible can be found on the Town of Oxbow Facebook page.

A live nativity scene was created by the children of St. Joseph’s – Oxbow. Photo sourced from Town of Oxbow Facebook page

The Carnduff 4-H Club recently held a steak supper fundraiser.