The Observer February 24, 2023

By Gord Paulley

Concerned citizens of Oxbow and area held a town meeting Tuesday night at Oxbow’s Memorial Hall regarding the temporary disruptions to the Galloway Health Centre’s emergency services.

The timing of the meeting was appropriate, as service was twice disrupted during the Family Day long weekend, and numerous other disruptions have occurred this year.

A total of 250 concerned residents from Oxbow, Alameda and the surrounding area attended the two-hour long meeting. Dana Krienke was the moderator. Can-

the

nington MLA Daryl Harrison and Souris-Moose Mountain MP Robert Kitchen were present.

Also on a panel were Galloway Health Centre manager Caroline Hill, Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) director of primary health care for district SE9 Candace Kopec, and SHA director of acute care Colleen Easton.

Mayors, reeves, various councilors and community leaders also attended.

Oxbow and area concerned citizen Tamara Brock had pre-positioned the panel with a few questions:

•What is the difference between a health centre and a hospital?

Heart of the Moose Mountains

•How does this affect nursing staff and funding?

•Local hospitals have been offering $50,000 signing bonuses. Has the Galloway Health Centre applied to the SHA rural and remote signing team for this additional funding bonus?

Easton replied:

“Health centre is just a term used 30 years ago and the name does not affect nursing staff and funding.”

Regarding a health signing bonus, Kopec said: “Unfortunately, the Galloway Health Centre does not appear as a designated bonus centre.”

They were also asked whether there is a full complement of staff at

the Galloway Health Centre, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, environmental service workers, care aids and any other positions required to keep the facility in use. As part of the question, they were asked about the staffing requirements per shift.

Both Kopec and Easton reiterated that the Galloway Health Centre is an important part of southeast Saskatchewan health care. Nobody wants to see emergency services disrupted and those at the meeting were pleased to learn that 2.5 full-time nursing positions have been filled in the past week. As well, a request

for additional staffing for the health centre has been submitted.

Regarding out-ofcountry recruitment, once a foreign employee comes to Saskatchewan, people wanted to know about the additional training and the timeframe required before starting.

Replied Easton, “That question is difficult to answer. It depends on what country the person comes from and what their staff designation is. They need to meet the licensing requirements of what is needed by the provincial government.”

Apparently, the time frame for this additional training is approximately three months.

Town hall meeting held in Oxbow concerning emergency services attracts large

A large crowd attended the town hall meeting in Oxbow on Tuesday night. Photo by Gord Paulley

Your first stop to find events happening in our community!

March

Sat, March 4 - Rummage Sale, Bake & Tradeshow - Bear Claw Casino

Sat, March 4 - Butter Making - Carlyle Library

Thurs, March 9 - Career Fair - Bear Claw Casino

Sat, March 11 - Trade Show - Memorial Hall

Tues, March 21 - Community Night - Carlyle Library

*Do you have a community event you want listed here?

Fri, March 31 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

April

Sat, April 1 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

Sun, April 2 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

Sat, April 22 - Carlyle & District Lions Club - Supper & Auction

Send us the name of the event, date, and what community it’s being held by emailing: observer@sasktel.net OR calling: (306) 453-2525.

If you would like to include more information than that listed here contact our sales people to see how we can help.

Nurses have been hired to work in emergency ward

Another questions was on the process to ensure concerns as individuals and community members are acknowledged, and if the concerns are checked regularly and thoroughly.

Easton provided the following response. “The proper website is www. saskhealthauthority.ca. That link has additional contact information available for various departments.”

The moderator then offered the microphone to those in attendance. Over 20 asked questions and expressed their concerns.

The hospital naming status was brought up time after time. The panel continued to remind the audience that the only difference between a hospital and health centre is the number of multi-purpose beds or acute care beds that it has. It does not af-

fect the nursing complement needed or costs.

It was learned that Oxbow had nearly three times the number of emergency patient calls when compared to Redvers the past two years. Again, the panel advised it was obvious that the Galloway emergency centre is a well-used and much needed facility.

Moose Creek Regional Park Authority

Is accepting applications for the position of Park Manager

This position will commence immediately or before April 1, 2023

A competitive salary based on experience will be offered. Applicant must be bondable, have strong organizational skills, work independently, and must oversee a team of employees.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Park Manager is responsible for the daily operations of the park and overseeing the park staff. This includes customer service, maintaining the facilities, grounds-keeping, equipment maintenance, and daily water treatment plant operation. A Level 1 water certificate is an asset but not necessary.

Also, is responsible for event planning and projects that are outlined by the board of directors.

The deadline to apply is March 1, 2023. Email or mail to moosecreekrp@gmail.com or MCRP Box 926 Oxbow SK S0C 2B0

Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Various other matters were discussed including the reopening of the palliative care room, having EMTs helping with any overloads, and whether the Galloway Health Centre should be operated as an acute care centre and a hospital.

On a positive note, it was frequently mentioned that the Galloway Health Centre has been able to retain three experienced doctors who provide high quality care and coverage for the area.

The meeting ended shortly after 9 p.m. Harrison appreciated the invitation to attend and offered some encouraging thoughts.

“It was a great crowd

tonight with some good questions. All the RN positions are currently filled in Oxbow. The Government of Saskatchewan continues with our four-point Health Human Resources Action Plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain healthcare workers.

“In September 2022, 150 new nurse training seats were added, including 10 more additional nurse practitioner seats, 124 RN seats and 16 psychiatric seats.

“In January of 2023, more than 550 seats were added to 18 post-secondary programs for priority health professions that are in demand or hard to recruit.”

Ian Cushon is a concerned citizen and organic grain farmer who also attended the meeting.

“I was impressed with the large turnout and wellorganized town hall on such short notice. It was very important to hear from the SHA on staffing issues and disruptions to service at the Galloway Health Centre. There was some good news, that the vacant nursing positions have been recently filled and ER service disruptions will be less likely,” said Cushon.

“Health care issues and disruptions impact all our communities and shortages of nurses and doctors are a growing problem across Canada, but especially in rural areas.

“As soon as possible the province must create many more health care training spaces for Saskatchewan residents and encourage them to practice and work in rural Saskatchewan.

“The province also needs to reduce the barriers to qualified nurses and doctors trained from other provinces and countries, so that they can work in Saskatchewan sooner than later.”

Sandy Dalziel is another concerned citizen who was also pleased with the large number in attendance.

“It was refreshing to see some of our questions answered but we still require clarification from the SHA on several matters,” said Dalziel. “I also wish to commend Tamara and Tara Brock, along with others, for putting this event together on such short notice. Their efforts are truly appreciated.”

As a result of this meeting, the Oxbow and area concerned citizens committee is in the process of compiling questions that will be submitted to the SHA and still require answers. They are hopeful that an early response is provided with results to be shared to the region.

From left Candace Kopec, Daryl Harrison, Caroline Hill, Robert Kitchen and Colleen Easton were part of a panel.

Photo by Gord Paulley

Winter Funfest had enjoyable outdoor activities

By Stephanie Zoer

Stoughton Central School and the community held their second annual Winter Funfest on Feb. 15, which was open to all who wished to attend.

Kids came dressed for the event, as all activities were held outdoors.

Around 200 youths from the Stoughton school and Ocean Man First Nation attended the fun-filled day. The attendance did not include the teachers, volunteers and parents.

The Grade 10-12 students were assigned to the younger grades and helped out wherever it was needed.

The festivities began at 9:30 a.m. and ran until 3 p.m.

Derek Mercer, the physical education teacher from Stoughton, had a schedule carefully planned out to house the nine events.

In front of the school, kids could be seen sculpting in the four piles of snow to come up with a creative design with their shovels and sculpting tools. Stoughton’s public works crew filled in the forms for the sculpting earlier that week. The students were able to sculpt a turtle, igloo, gnome and castle.

Next year, Mercer would like this event begin a few days earlier to give students the opportunity to put more time into this project.

Stan Logan, who resides north of Forget, had his team of horses, Rex and Dixie, hooked up to the wagon to give rides around town. Youths seemed to enjoy this as they waved at all the passing vehicles.

Sand was donated by Coderre Construction to put on the driveway so the horses would not slip. Rhett Tanner, Jhett and Kruz Brigden and

Reid Goudy made sure to get this sand in place.

The Grow Your Community Grant from the Southeast Sport, Culture and Recreation District bought the calf sleds for races. High school students pulled the younger students in a race on the manmade snow track,

which went around the yard.

Ocean Man Education Centre supplied the delicious bannock, said Sheila Berner, while a grant from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan helped purchase the food shared on this day.

Snowshoeing, skiing, centipede ski races and snow fort building were behind the school.

A large firepit created warmth as the students sat around the fire to listen to stories from Ocean Man’s Elder Peter Bigstone. Bigstone is the language teacher for

both schools, teaching the Nakata language. The wood for the pit was donated by Neil and Sheila Berner.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Grade 8 student Cheyenne Lake.

“It was really cold, but still fun,” added Elexia Stovin.

“It was an entertaining kind of day,” said Christian Vogel

Although the temperatures were frigid, Mercer said the students stayed warm as they were always moving around.

High school students will also receive credit for helping out and participating in the events.

According to Mercer, the next big event at the school is in March when the basketball playoffs begin, along with the return of the students from the Saskatchewan Winter Games held in Regina. Nine students from Stoughton are attending.

Stoughton holds inaugural snowmobile poker rally

By Stephanie Zoer

The Stoughton Pool Board held its first annual snowmobile poker rally on Feb. 18.

Breakfast started the day, with volunteers serving up pancakes and sausage from 8-10 a.m. in the newly-renovated kitchen at the arena.

Registration began at 10 a.m. and ran until noon. Town Councillor Scott Ogilvie and recreation director Steve Massel took care of this, along with 50-50 tickets being sold.

Each person who registered for the rally pulled five cards from a

deck, and at the end of the day the person with the best poker hand would win half of the registration pot.

Nearly 50 people signed up, and they could either ride the trails or enjoy the comfort of the warm arena kitchen, and watch kids enjoying the ice.

While on the trails the riders had two stops, one at Melrose Place and the other at Blue Line. The firepit was heated and hot chocolate was served to those who wanted some. Volunteers greeted the riders at each stop.

These trails are part

of the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club and are maintained by them as well.

When everyone returned by 5 p.m. the draw was held for the best poker hand.

“Winner, winner, chicken dinner,” said Ogilvie when he found out he had the best hand with three aces.

The 50/50 draw winner went to Danielle Hoffman of Stoughton, while a silent auction table of approximately 30 items saw a lot of action. Another table held raffle draws.

The kitchen remained open throughout the day

with volunteers serving up the customers.

Ogilvie said the funds raised will help with the fence that will be put up around the pool, along with a gazebo.

They were pleased with the outcome of the day, with it being the first one.

Ogilvie said events like this are not possible without the many donations received and all the volunteers that came out to help.

It is their hope to make it better and better each year to have people come to their community to enjoy the events.

Carlyle Legion honours comrades

At their regular monthly meeting held last week, several members of the Carlyle branch of the Royal Canadian Legion were recognized for their exemplary years of service. From left, members Gary Roy, 20 years, Jack Wilson, 25, Clareen Makelki, 50, Nedra Clark, 20, Gerald Clark, 20, president and presenter Mike Makelki, Gerry Kuzick, 50, and John Voutour, 25. The local branch is presently selling tickets on a 750 King Quad. It is a major fundraiser with 2,000 tickets being sold and a draw date of June 15. An early bird draw for a gas fire pit will be held April 15. Tickets may be purchased from any Legion member. All proceeds will go towards worthwhile community projects.

Elder Peter Big Stone from the Ocean Man First Nation told stories to the students around a warm, welcoming fire. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

From left, Stoughton recreation director Steve Massel presents Scott Ogilvie with his winning hand prize money. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Bullying is never ok ay

Stephanie Zoer

Just a few words

My mom always said, “If youcan not say something nice then do not say anything at all.”

Mom lived by these words and never spoke ill about anyone. She was the kindest woman anyone would ever meet.

There were times when mom was not treated very kindly, but she would chalk it up to people having a bad day, but the truth was, it was bullying.

As kids, we did not dare treat another kid poorly because if this got back to my mom it would not go over well. There were times I was picked on because I was the tallest in my class, I had a Dutch background and I was a plain jane girl, but I was taught to chalk it up to the kids having a bad day. It was bullying.

It seems bullying has grown over the years and it is not just kids. Adults bully just as much, if not more than kids. It is a fine line between bullying and harassment.

We have dealt with this bullying issue with our daughter. She is special needs and is different. When a person is different, they tend to be teased for how they look, act, or speak.

It did not end in school. As she became an adult, it continued into workplaces and she now fears to have a job, although she would love to have one.

Bullying is in schools, clubs, churches, bars and the workplace and now on social media.

Bullying can turn an outgoing person of any age into a recluse. After all, who wants to go to school or work knowing that cruel person will also be there to continue their assault from the day before. It can be just one person or several at the same time.

Kids that are picked on or teased can have an upset stomach, complain about headaches, or feel like they have the flu. They can become quiet and unsocial, so parents pay attention, because some of these kids that experience bullying may think about suicide or worse yet, do it. I know this feeling as our daughter became suicidal. To this day she is on depression medication to help with her issues.

It is not much different for an adult. In the workplace, a co-worker or manager can have the same bullying attitude. Did this continue from being a bully as a child?

A boss can go on a power trip and become a bully and why? Treating staff with respect gets you staff that will work hard for you, treating them like a nobody is bullying.

It happens a lot more than one thinks. Excluding a person because they have a different opinion is bullying. Speaking down to someone is bullying. Making a person cry because of your unkind words is bullying.

Do the kids that grow up without being caught as a bully do the same in workplaces? The kids that bully, do they have issues at home, and this is there way of feeling good about themselves?

I will never understand the concept of bullying. It is cruel. Does it make a person feel good to belittle another person, just because they have a higher rank on the job? Does it make a person feel good to leave another person out? Does it make them more powerful to put another person down?

It is time that people think before they open their mouths. Maybe ask yourself how this would make you feel if spoke to in this manner, but then maybe you do not care. There are also those people who feel what they say is alright. Well, it is not if you are being a bully about it.

If you do not think this is a problem, then you are a bully, but then this is just my opinion.

We were in a large city last summer standing on a bridge overlooking the finish line of a triathlon. We didn’t know anyone there but it was easy to get swept up in the excitement of cheering on people we’d never met.

It reminded me of the day we were touring some botanical gardens. While walking through the rose garden, we encountered a man down on one knee holding up a ring box in front of a women clutching her hands in obvious excitement. We didn’t know them, yet all those in the rose garden got caught up in the beauty of the moment and joined in applause.

Perhaps they weren’t nice people. We had no way of knowing. But the moment caused a celebration amongst strangers.

We are all very different people and we

experience and interpret things differently, yet there are times that shared knowledge allows us to construe events in a similar manner. We have an understanding in common as to what behaviours are distinct to a football game as opposed to a funeral, or a cafeteria versus a meeting because we have history and understanding to bring to the situation, even though we may not know anyone in the room.

But sometimes those experiences we share together can be engineered. Dare I say manipulated? And it makes me wonder how much time we spend reacting to a situation instead of truly assessing it.

Remember a time when a standing ovation was a rare thing? It meant something was truly outstanding and worthy of more than what our applause could communicate. But now, even at less than stellar performances it is anticipated.

Standing ovations have become such an expected end to any performance, some places even stage manage them to ensure they happen. By placing pre-selected individuals in certain places and having them rise to their feet the chances

are very good most of audience will join in. It has been carefully studied. The size and shape of the venue impact the number of people required and where their ideal placement should be. Behavioural scientists suggest that if onefifth of the audience rises you can expect the entire house to join them.

Political rallies and motivational events often employ the same techniques hoping that even the most reluctant or undecided attendee will be swept up in the excitement of the moment and be convinced of the quality of the candidate, the new initiatives or the potential of the programs. If everyone around us is pumped up and exuberant, we are more likely to become persuaded.

But if it is all so carefully managed, even choreographed, how authentic is it? Doesn’t it devalue the whole thing?

I want singers/artists/ speakers/ to know that they moved and inspired me and not that a critical mass of one-fifth was met and we responded to the pressure, instead of the performance.

Too often that is what we do. We respond in the way others do, rather than in a manner that is reflective of having

given it more thought on our own.

We have seen how quickly some jump to attack or defend people in situations they know little about. Consider the latest celebrity or politician who made some illadvised comment, and you can see how easily it spirals. It matters little if all the details are known or even true. Once the ball gets rolling it becomes quite the force that many get caught up in.

But what if the pressure came in the form of positively affecting the lives of others? While it is easy to become discouraged by the size and complexity of problems we may be facing, if it indeed takes just one-fifth of a group to get things moving in a particular direction it means big things can happen at the impetus of smaller gestures. We can be the one in five. Once things get rolling others will respond and add to the wave.

One person can begin an ovation that can move through an auditorium. That same person can start a movement that can sweep an entire nation. It may be easier than we think to get people on their feet and ready to roll. That’s my outlook.

“There is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

- Nelson Mandela

Shelley Luedtke

Standing up when it means something

Cornerstone school board learns more about data

A scheduled report containing updated information from the South East Cornerstone Public School Division was presented to the board during their monthly open business meeting in Weyburn on Feb. 15.

The data focused on the division’s System Goal 3, which calls for decisions and planning to be based on relevant information and data that has been gathered about students.

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Cornerstone board approves former school’s property sale

School board embraces reconciliation with updated calendar Director of education, Keith Keating launched the 45-minute presentation outlining the 20 or more reporting tools used in the data-gathering system that leads to a regular examination of results that helps teachers and administrators gain an understanding of how well the students are progressing.

Discussions and analysis of data provides tools for action plans and course corrections that are launched to assist them in reaching successful outcomes. understanding all the data and how and why it is used are key factors, he said.

The data is available to the teachers on a regular basis.

Susan Husband, viceprincipal and response to

intervention (RtI) teacher at Assiniboia Park Elementary School in Weyburn, was next up. She led the board members through an explanation of how the data is used.

“It gives you a snapshot of the child on that date,” she said.

The data-gathering sessions are completed four times in a school year.

Husband went on to explain that particular areas of study are declared as “difficult” for most students prior to presentation.

“We want them to know that,” she said.

It’s all part of the planning. A mix of questions helps the information-gathering systems function and, “kids do their best. We keep data on each student year to year,” she said.

That means educators teaching the child in the future can easily refer

to the student’s former screenings and graphs.

Husband explained that reading and math levels are key factors, and whether a student can read with comprehension is highly relevant. She noted that in some instances, an early learner might be able to read rapidly but not be able to embrace a comprehension of what they have read. The system allows teachers to keep track of students who lack vocabulary skills.

Next up was Jacquie Gibbs, co-ordinator of early learning, who first noted how early learning skills in reading have a direct influence on Grade 12 graduation rates a decade or more later. This makes early years evaluations a key component.

Getting students involved is just one corner of the process. Family engagement improves

BEST BUYS IN USED EQUIPMENT

results, she said, so those parents who get involved, well, “it’s a big deal,” she noted for those pre-kindergarten youngsters. If they do become engaged, it makes for a smoother transition into schools and an easier process for all.

“We’ll have kids ready, attending and engaged. For me, all roads lead to the family,” she said.

Website access plans for parents were also brought forward by Gibbs, who noted that improvements were being made to provide parents with the information they needed and desired. A survey was conducted to obtain more ideas as to what parents wanted and there was no indication they were disappointed,

but they want more such as parenting information, more information about the school and the kindergarten program.

Gibbs said on the parenting information question, they did not want to deliver a feeling that they are trying to tell the parents what to do, but rather just help them gain information and how often they wanted to be texted prior to the child entering the kindergarten program.

She admitted that COVID-19 restrictions had set back the pre-kindergarten and many other early learning programs. Those struggles have now eased and that interlude of absence proved the point that “within the classrooms we (students,

teachers) are so much happier, so we know that getting them into the building is better.”

Links to the school websites are being made easier to access and allows families to know what’s available.

“If more information is out there, you’ll get more access,” said trustee Megan Schick, a Weyburn trustee.

Day care centres also provide a wonderful link to that information and preparations, added chairwoman Audrey Trombley.

Keating added in conclusion that it has become clear how collecting quality data is a key to operating a successful education system and helping students succeed.

OILFIELD DIRECTORY Drilling Licenses

Co-op supports nearly 20 causes in the southeast

The Southern Plains Co-op has been busy in the first two months of the year, showing support for a variety of causes in the southeast region.

The co-op has presented 20 cheques worth a total of $35,000. The largest contribution was to the women’s health outpatient centre at St. Joseph’s Hospital. The co-op has donated $15,000, to be paid out over the next 10 years, and will receive the naming rights for the area.

Brooke Spagrud, who is the marketing and community relations manager for the co-op, said the other organizations received $500 to $2,000, benefiting child care, animals, first responders, the arts, health, sports, recreation and more.

“This list of organizations was put together by our staff and management in the beginning of January,” said Spagrud. “We asked them to nominate or come up with a list of groups or organizations that they felt were important, that they would like to support. From that list, then we were able to allocate funds and surprise them with donations.”

The organizations didn’t know until they

received a phone call that they would receive a donation. Spagrud asked each entity how the co-op could help.

“All of them have a list of things, on an ongoing basis, that they’re looking to purchase, or they have needs to fulfill. Once you get talking to them, it varies,” she said

For example, the Manor Fire Department is adding an expansion for its fire hall, so the funds will help with that

project, Spagrud said. The Carlyle Fire Department needs to purchase one of its trucks, so firefighters are fundraising for a rapid response truck. The Emergency Support Fund in Oxbow used the money for gift cards for people who need help purchasing groceries.

Bow Valley Villa in Oxbow is looking to replace beds for its residents. Southeast Saskatchewan Search

and Rescue will use the money to help them be ready when called to find a missing person. The Souris Valley Theatre needs to replace their sprinkler system.

And then there was a group of quilters out of Carlyle.

“The quilt club was nominated to receive some funds, and when I called them, I asked them to explain a little bit about what they do, because I was unaware,”

said Spagrud. “It turns out that these ladies create quilts and gift them to cancer patients and people who were recently diagnosed with cancer in Carlyle and the surrounding area.”

Shortly after the Humboldt Broncos bus tragedy in 2018, the guild sent some quilts to the Humboldt area.

Funds from the co-op will allow the quilt club to purchase batting and other supplies so they

can continue to give a homemade quilt to people.

It was also important to donate to projects throughout the southeast. The co-op has operations in Carlyle, Oxbow, Alameda and Gainsborough in addition to Estevan.

Spagrud said a percentage of the co-op’s sales goes back into the communities they serve, so they’re always supporting non-profits throughout the year.

“This is the first time we’ve approached organizations and said ‘Hey, we have money we want to give you.’ Typically, donations and sponsorship requests come to us. These organizations come to us and they ask if we can help them. What made this one unique was that this one was a list of groups nominated by co-op employees of different organizations they wanted to support.”

Co-op employees are members, too, so basically the co-op was making donations to groups and organizations important to employees.

Last year the coop donated nearly $160,000 to the community groups in a variety of ways, Spagrud said.

The Southern Plains Co-op donated to the Carlyle Leisure Complex and Sports Arena earlier this year. File photo

Photos by Stephanie Zoer

Cornerstone submits request for new Carlyle school

The South East Cornerstone Public School Division will once again apply for two major capital projects to be included in the 2023 provincial budget.

One is a new pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 school facility in Carlyle.

It would replace the existing Carlyle Elementary School and Gordon F. Kells High School.

The other is a significant upgrade for the Estevan Comprehensive School (ECS) to accommodate more classes for Grade 7 and 8 students from Estevan’s public schools, and an associated major new Estevan pre-kindergarten-Grade 6 joint use school with Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division.

Two minor projects seeking approval will be a ventilation upgrade at ECS and upgrades to McNaughton High School’s home economics area and library in Moosomin.

At the Feb. 15 meeting of the South East Cornerstone Public School Division, the board members noted the two major projects being applied for will most likely bear a long-range target date, but need to be filed in order to get on the Ministry of Education’s priority lists while the minor pro-

jects are expected to carry a much shorter, more urgent target date.

The motions will be forwarded to the provincial ministry in early March.

The decisions were made after a comprehensive and educational report was delivered by Andy Dobson, manager of facilities and transportation for the division.

It dealt with information that was especially helpful to the three newest board members, Megan Schick of Weyburn, Devona Putland, Subdivision 1 (Rocanville, Wapella and Moosomin) and Michelle DeBruyne, Subdivision 6 (Ogema, Pangman, Yellow Grass, Radville, Gladmar and Oungre).

Dobson said this dual portfolio came his way six years earlier and included a total staffing level of 321 employees, along with two separate but equally important administration and management structures.

The need for more school bus drivers was a prevailing theme throughout the presentation, but not the only vital topic for the discussion that included wide ranging areas of supervision and management that goes into those departments.

Caretaking operations and safety concerns for 36 schools, division offices in Weyburn and Estevan, plus five bus service garages and six teacherages, are also under the purview of Dobson’s management team.

Along with 134 regular bus route buses and 40 spare buses, there are now increases to accommodate in the bus route schedule with the departure of 22 contracted service routes. This is leading to the purchase and then expansion of a bus service garage in Moosomin later this spring and summer. The division also has 49 fleet vehicles to manage.

Property procurement and disposal, other than buses and vehicles, also

comes under the direction of Dobson and his team. They manage lease agreements with teacherages, childcare centres and the Southeast College.

Dobson added that petroleum and natural gas leases are also handled by this sector. Mineral rights were also retained on properties formerly owned by the division. These small parcels of a few acres each carry three-year leases with lease fees and a collection of oil royalties on sites no longer used for schools.

Project management such as roofing issues, facility demolitions, upgrades and insurance claims, as well as snow removal, grounds maintenance, fencing and

ventilation systems, are all included in the facilities portfolio.

A pilot project that included safety measures was a success, said Dobson who added that school bus safety was a big component of the event that included a presentation from Tim Hosaluk of the Saskatchewan Association for Safe Workplaces in Health. This has led to safety packages being included in each school bus this year. Dobson noted that surveillance cameras have been installed in all new buses entering the service since 2019.

Plans are also in place to incorporate GPS systems in all buses this year and into 2024.

In response to ques-

tioning, Dobson stated it will be a challenge to maintain a strict schedule for bus retirements after 300,000 kilometres and/or 10 years of service due to recent bus price increases. He said that new 71-seat buses that used to cost approximately $95,000 are now carrying price tags of $165,000.

There are also supply chain issues for bus parts and tires in their servicing centres.

He said equipment or materials that used to be delivered within two days to two weeks, now come in around six weeks to six months time, so plans have changed to include more inventory in storage. Board members made note of the fact that it will be a challenge to continue to try to order 10 new school buses each year to keep the fleet updated. It was said that older buses are being used for in-city routes in Weyburn and Estevan with the newer buses assigned to rural routes. Dobson said, however, that in some instances, several buses with lots of mileage are performing well since they have been well-maintained over the years and that many spare buses do just fine when placed in service.

The South East Cornerstone Public School Division is looking for a replacement for Gordon F. Kells High School. File photo

Stoughton Credit Union can help with investments

By Stephanie Zoer

The Stoughton Credit Union is an independent credit union which offers a variety of services.

In May 1960, the credit union was incorporated and in March 1964, they purchased their first permanent location. In 1971 the Kisbey branch was born, and in 2008 the Forget branch was absorbed.

In the spring of 2020, they began work on the new building, which was completed later in the year.

It is that time of year were the deadline for RRSPs is approaching.

An RRSP is an investment account that is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency.

It allows a person to save money on a tax-deferred basis until retirement and also is a tax-efficient way to build retirement savings.

Christine Corscadden is the general manager, while Sherry Ksenych is the manager of member services. They both feel it is a great option for retirement and can help with the details.

There are many different programs to choose from to help with saving for the future.

RRIF is a registered retirement income fund. At the age of 71, the RRSP can convert into this retirement income option.

Funds remain tax sheltered in an RRIF, but a person controls how they are invested. There is a difference though: a person can draw from these funds as income to live on.

Withdrawals are considered income, so taxes need to be paid on them, but if retired, taxes are at a lower rate.

There is also the RDSP which is intended for people who have a disabil-

ity and who are eligible for the disability tax credit.

Derek Baumgartner is the manager of lending. There are two main types of consumer mortgages, conventional and Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation. With the conventional mortgage, a minimum of 20 per cent is required

How to make your money grow

If you have a stable budget and hardly any debt, this is the right time to start some kind of deliberate savings plan. Don’t wait a minute longer; the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see your savings grow.

You don’t need to have a lot of money to begin saving. You can get going by opening a tax free savings account and depositing any amount you’d like to start with. You can deposit up to $5,500 annually in a TFSA; any investment income it generates is tax free. Even cash withdrawals won’t be taxed. The TFSA is a great tool to meet and even exceed your financial goals.

Another great way to start saving is to open a registered retirement savings plan. There are many eligible investments, and the interest rates are better than with regular savings accounts. Your contributions are tax deductible, and your gains are tax free until you withdraw them. Investing in an RRSP is recommended by financial experts as one of the most effective financial strategies for retirement planning.

for the down payment based on the purchase price. It is up to a 25-year amortization with one to five-year term options.

A CMHC mortgage requires a five per cent down payment on the purchase price, but also requires CMHC insurance. This depends on the down payment amount and also has a one to five-year term option.

The credit union holds community barbecues each year and also offers scholarships to post-secondary students.

Each year they donate $25,000 to local organizations, events and fundraisers. They volunteer throughout the year to help the community.

In December they hold the 12 Days of Christmas. This past December they donated to 31 organizations. Envelopes are placed on a Christmas tree with donations of $50 to $1,000. Organizations pick an envelope to see what each group wins.

The Stoughton Credit Union is always willing to answer people’s questions and concerns, and are always ready to offer community support.

Start saving with a TFSA and RRSP; you’ll soon be ready to diversify your investments.

A representative of a financial institution can help you determine your investor profile. This involves deciding how to spread your precious money among high- and low-risk savings and investment tools. Once you have a better idea of your profile, you can follow an action plan that is tailored to your personal circumstances. On top of a TFSA and RRSPs, you may decide to buy some government savings bonds, guaranteed investment certificates issued by banks, mutual funds, stocks, and other financial products designed to give you worthwhile returns.

The Stoughton Credit Union opened their new building in the fall of 2020. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Sports

Kipling’s Logan Ede will go to junior curling nationals

By Stephanie Zoer

Kipling’s Logan Ede has emerged as one of the top young curlers in Saskatchewan.

Ede and his two older brothers Brett and Mark were raised in Kipling by their parents Ken and Sandy Ede.

Logan Ede graduated from Kipling School, but instead of going to college he works for his parents’ company, System III Supply Ltd., which is an excavating business.

As a young boy, Ede began to curl as his father was also into curling.

Around the age of 15, Ede started to curl competitively, attending as many bonspiels and tournaments as possible. During the winter, when curling season hits, he lives in Saskatoon, which is close to his team members.

In January, Ede and his team – Austin

Krupski, Michael Hom and Brayden Grindheim – attended the Junior curling provincial finals in Swift Current.

Krupski is the lead, Hom is the second, Grindheim is the third and Ede is the skip, and all are under the age of 21.

The junior provincials, which had six teams, started with a round robin and then the top four teams advanced to the playo ffs.

Ede’s team went to the playoffs defeating Team Brydon from Regina to take the provincial championship.

They also competed in the SaskTel Tankard men’s provincial championship in Estevan from Feb. 1-5. Ede said the competition was very strong with the 12 teams and they hoped for one win, which they did.

Another tournament they played in was in

Red Deer, Alta., on Feb. 10-12, but were defeated by a Calgary team in the final game.

Now they are focused on Curling Canada’s Junior Nationals, which are held in Rouyn-Noranda, Que., from March 25-April 2.

Ede feels their chances at nationals are really good and they will do a lot of prepping to prepare for it. He believes the playo ffs will be televised on TSN.

Although some of the expenses are covered by CurlSask, other expenses will come out of pocket for the team, such as hotels and meals.

To help with these expenses, a steak night and auction will be held on March 10 at the Kipling Recreation Centre. Funds raised will go to the team to offset costs.

Whitewood Mayor Rhett Parks will be the auctioneer, and anyone can donate to the event

to support the Saskatchewan junior men’s team.

Ede and his team are excited about the opportunity to repre-

Carlyle Figure Skating Club competes in Minot

By Gord Paulley

Earlier this month, nine members of the Carlyle Figure Skating Club competed in the annual Magic City Figure Skating competition in Minot, N.D.

More than 100 skaters in all participated, with the Carlyle team being the only competitors from Canada.

The female skaters ranged in ages from five to 16. Several placed either first or second in various age groups and categories. Khloe Brady finished first in Basic 3 elements and the Basic 3 programs. Freya Waelchli was also first in both Basic 3 elements and programs, and second in showcase basic. Rylee Brady was first in pre-preliminary spins and second in showcase.

Amilee Waelchli placed first in pre-preliminary compulsory moves. Brynn Chapman was first in pre-juvenile showcase and second in both excel preliminary plus free skate and compulsory moves.

Tiana Delalleau was second in both open juvenile spins and juvenile showcase. Kaylee Mudrewich won first place in open juvenile showcase and second in open juvenile jumps.

Along with Dawn Brady, Marian Juce is an

instructor of the roughly 20 star skaters of the Carlyle Figure Skating Club.

“This is my second year of helping out with the program,” said Juce. “We have had a lot of new faces join the club this year which is always exciting.

“With the pandemic issues behind us, we can enjoy some weekend competitions which included Minot in early February. Our kids are bonding well and are rapidly becoming a team, cheering each other on. I have thoroughly enjoyed the year.”

Nine-year-old Peyton Faber is a busy girl who is on the ice a minimum of five days a week, either figure skating or playing for the U11 Carlyle Cougars minor hockey team. Her mother Dawn talked about the skating competition in Minot.

sent Saskatchewan and hope to bring home the championship.

“Peyton had such a blast,” said Dawn. “She was a little bummed she didn’t get a medal, but that lasted about half a minute. She was just highly energized for both Friday and Saturday. She told me at one point that she just felt so special about wearing the VIP name tag around her neck. I was so happy seeing her so happy as well.”

Peyton was asked which sport she prefers. She immediately replied by saying “equal”.

Anita Delalleau is the mother of Tiana and has been involved in the Carlyle Figure Skating Club for many years.

“Figure skating has been an important part of my life and I continue to enjoy the sport and helping in any way I can. The provincial skating championships are in Weyburn March 3, 4 and 5 and many of our team will be competing. Our year-ending carnival is set for Sunday, March 19. Please mark that date on your calendars.”

From left, Logan Ede, Brayden Grindheim, Michael Hom and Austin Krupski won the junior men’s provincial curling title and now are going to nationals. Photo by Logan Ede

Carlyle figure skaters recently competing at the Magic City Minot event. From left, instructor Dawn Brady, Khloe Brady, Freya Waelchli, Rylee Brady, Peyton Faber, Amilee Waelchli, Brynn Chapman, Tiana Delalleau, Kaylee Mudrewich and assistant instructor Marian Juce. Missing is Kyler Kamp. Photo by Gord Paulley

Einarsons wrapping up another season of U18 hockey

By Gord Paulley

Kasenya and Gracyn

Einarson are sisters who have been playing hockey since they were in kindergarten, and are teammates on the Carlyle U18 Wildcats.

The Wildcats have completed their 20-game regular season and ended up with a 3-16-1 record.

Playing in the South Division of the Saskatchewan Female Hockey League, the team finished in seventh place.

Kasenya is 16 years old and is in Grade 11. Gracyn is 14 and in Grade 9 with

both attending Arcola School. Kasenya was the team’s leading scorer and finished regular-season play with 13 goals and seven assists in 19 games. Gracyn chipped in with a goal and two assists and played every game.

Both girls are forwards with Kasenya playing right wing and wearing jersey No. 11. Gracyn plays centre and wears jersey No. 9. Both have played boys’ minor hockey over the years and are happy that they are able to play on an all-female team.

The sisters were asked

to comment on their hockey strengths.

“I feel I am a hardworker and strong on the puck,” said Kasenya.

“I feel I am a good forechecker and a good passer,” added Gracyn.

The girls’ parents are Jennifer and Cory Einarson and the family lives in Arcola. Jennifer is a co-manager of the team.

“Cory and I are extremely proud of our girls and their intense love of the game of hockey,” said Jennifer. “We really enjoy the game, and it is such a huge part of our lives.”

Brian Hagel is the head coach of the Wildcats and offered his assessment of the sisters. “The Einarson girls are a joy to coach and are quick learners,” said Hagel. “I really appreciate their passion for the game.”

The Wildcats will be playing the Milestone Flyers in a best-of-three quarter-final series. Game 1 goes Feb. 25 at in Milestone. Game 2, which is the Wildcats’ home game, is being played in Kipling on March 1. Game three, if necessary, would be played back in Milestone.

Carlyle Elementary School children enjoying curling

By Gord Paulley

Natalie Bloomfield is a Carlyle Elementary School learning support teacher who has been introducing young school children to the sport of curling for many years.

Together with educational assistant Nicole Turgeon, Bloomfield holds regular practices every Monday afternoon after school.

Each week, 15-20 children in Grades 4-6 meet at the Carlyle Curling Club for on-ice instruction. Many of the group are new to the game, and these young and willing athletes started out on the ground level just learning the basics.

“I am pleased to see the steady improvement in our students since the

start of the year,” said Bloomfield. “From learning the turns, being able

to slide, and just sweeping the rocks, the kids have come a long way. We are

now starting game-based practices and many of them will move up to the high school program next year.”

Robin Mryglod and Chris Horn are the proud parents of nine-year-old son Orlando, who is part of the program.

“This is Orlando’s first year curling and he really enjoys it,” said Robin.

“Thank you to Natalie and her assistants for teaching our kids about the curling game. Their guidance and patience are greatly appreciated.”

Recently, Bloomfield curled competitively in the Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts held in Estevan. Her team included sister Tamara

Kapell and cousin Kristy Johnson. Cindy Ricci was their skip.

Students only require bringing shoes and a helmet to the rink. The Carlyle Curling Club supplies brooms and sliders to anyone in need at no charge. It is simply an inexpensive way to introduce someone new to the game.

“The kids have been simply amazing,” said Bloomfield. “They listen well and are wonderful to work with. It is great to see the interest being generated with our youth. Thank-you to Nicole Turgeon, Carrie Rutten and Melissa RoyBrown for helping me out this year.”

Redvers wins Game 1 of Big Six semifinal versus Yellow Grass

The Redvers Rockets have taken the lead in their Big Six semifinal series with the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings.

The top-seeded Rockets defeated the seventh-ranked Wheat Kings 7-2 Tuesday night in Redvers in Game 1 of their best-of-five semifinal showdown.

Game 2 will be March 1 in Yellow Grass and Game 3 is set for March 3 in Redvers. Dates for the other two contests have not been announced.

Redvers reached the semifinal round by sweeping the eighth-ranked Midale Mustangs in their best-of-three quarter-final series. Yellow Grass, meanwhile, upset the No. 2 Oxbow Huskies in two straight games in their matchup.

The third-seeded Moosomin Rangers will face the No. 5 Bienfait Coalers in the other semi. Moosomin swept the sixthranked Carlyle Cougars in their quarter-final matchup, while the Coalers dethroned the reign-

ing league champions, the Carnduff Red Devils, in a three-game series.

Bienfait rallied from an early 3-0 deficit in the first period to defeat the Red Devils 6-4 in the third and deciding game Thursday in Carnduff

Game 1 between Moosomin and Bienfait will be Feb. 24 in Moosomin, with Game 2 taking place the following night in Bienfait. Game 3 would be March 3 in Moosomin. Games 4 and 5, if necessary, would occur March 4 in Bienfait

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and March 8 in Moosomin, respectively.

Three Big Six teams are still alive in provincials, including the Cougars, who will play Grenfell in the best-of-three senior B south final.

Game 1 will be Feb. 25 in Grenfell. Game 2 is March 3 in Carlyle, starting at 8 p.m., and Game 3, if necessary, would be two days later, also in Carlyle, beginning at 1 p.m.

Carlyle advanced by sweeping the Oxbow Huskies in two straight in the

semi-final, while Grenfell knocked off the Rangers in three games. Grenfell took Game 3 5-4 on Feb. 19 in Moosomin.

In the senior C south semifinal, the Redvers Rockets defeated the Assiniboia Rebels 5-2 Sunday in Assiniboia. Game 2 will be Feb. 25 n Redvers and Game 3, if necessary, would be the following afternoon in Assiniboia.

The winner will play Kenaston or Langenburg in the south final.

In Senior D action, Carnduff defeated host Central Butte 5-4 on Sunday to win the best-of-three south semifinal in three games. Carnduff will now play Lashburn or Lucky Lake in the south final. Carnduff won Game 1 5-3 on Feb. 11, but lost Game 2 5-3 in Central Butte a week later.

For updated coverage of the Big Six playoffs, you can visit our provincial news hub at www.sasktoday.ca.

Steven Bonk, MLA for Moosomin Constituency

Steven Bonk, MLA for Moosomin Constituency

622 Main St., Moosomin, SK

622 Main St. Moosomin, SK

Phone: 306-435-4005

Phone: 306-435-4005

Email: stevenbonkmla@sasktel.net

Email: stevenbonkmla@sasktel.net

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday

Of ce Hours: Monday - Friday 9 am - 12 noon; 1 pm - 4 pm

20211214_Bonk_Business-Card-Ad.indd12021-12-149:21:03

Kasenya and Gracyn Einarson are sisters who play for the Carlyle U18 Wildcats of the Saskatchewan Female Hockey League. Photo by Gord Paulley

Carlyle Elementary School children enjoyed a recent Monday afternoon practice.

Photo by Gord Paulley

MEMORIALS

Cemetery Memorials * In Cemetery Lettering Memorial Benches * Cenotaphs * Columbaria

Cemetery Improvements * Memorial Restoration

MICHAEL REY 306-901-7440

LAURIE REY 306-901-7000

Call, text or email mrey@sasktel.net

No obligation in-home consultation

VET SERVICES

PLACING AN AD AD RATES

BY PHONE: 306-453-2525

BY FAX: 306-453-2938

In Person or By Mail:

The Carlyle Observer Box 160,

Cody Paul Grimes

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Cody Paul Grimes, of Arcola, SK on January 27, 2023, at the age of 40 years.

Cody developed a competitive spirit at a young age. He was active in sports; although his favourite sports changed throughout his life, golf, hockey, baseball, and karting were his passions. Cody loved learning and improving himself in sporting and life in general. He took pride in coaching youth sports to share his passions with a younger generation.

Whether as a team player, family member, or business partner, Cody believed in integrity. To his core, standing true to his word defined who he was. He lived with honour and passion. Cody always gave everything he had to give; he was all-in.

Cody’s tenacity was admirable. He fought for his family to the end; they were always his reason why, his purpose.

Cody’s legacy will be carried on by his wife of 15 years, Sheena, and their children, Kendall, Greyson, Ethan, and Sadie. Also, he will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Paul and Bev Grimes; brother, Micky (Erica) and their children, Jack, Zara, and Scarlett; in-laws Keith and Anna Erick; brother-in-law, Craig (Marcie) and their children, Kirby, Titus, Ryan, Bo, and Parker, as well as, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He will be dearly missed and will forever hold a special place in our hearts. To honour Cody’s memory and his fight for life, please consider registering to be an organ donor (in SK, you can register at www.givelifesask.ca), or by donating blood with Canadian Blood Services.

A celebration of Cody’s life was held on February 18, 2023, in his hometown of Arcola, SK.

Condolences may be left at:www.fletcherfuneralchapel.co.

Services in Care of Fletcher Funeral Chapel & Cremation Services Weyburn, Saskatchewan306-842-5432

AGPRO SEEDS LTD. BUYING HEATED, DAMAGED OFFGRADE CANOLA & FEED GRAINS. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! Call/text: 306-873-0481, AgPro Seeds bids: agproseeds.com, Email: sales@agproseeds.com

Jean Lougheed (nee McKellar) 1932 - 2023

With heavy hearts, the family of Jean Lougheed wishes to announce her passing on February 4, 2023. She was 90 years young and never stopped learning - experimenting with new recipes and technologies right up to her final days.

Left to mourn Jean are her children, Barb (Kerry) Baines, Rodney (Bev) Lougheed and Rhonda (Brad) Paton, brother Geordie (Penny) McKellar, sisters-in-law, Lois McKellar, Marlene (Roy) Lequyer and Bette Moffat and brothers-in-law, Bob (Mickey) Lougheed and Allan Spearing.

GG will forever be missed by her grandchildren, their {spouses} and (great grandchildren): Chad {Alina} (Kady); Mardelle {Duane} (Raylie); Dustin {Angie} (Aidan), (Austin); Rachelle {Shaun} (Dominic), (Owen); Kristie (Liam), (Lexi); Scott {Renee} (Victoria); Marcie {Craig} (Kirby), (Titus), (Ryan), (Bo), (Parker), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Jean was predeceased by her husband and best friend of 69 years, Ron, son Cpl. Richard (Rick) Lougheed, brothers, Clem, Jim, Bill and Alf, sisters, Kay Kirkvold and Isabelle Gordon and grandson Trent Burnett.

Jean was born December 19, 1932, at Nurse Smith’s house in Kisbey. She was the youngest of eight children. She was a baby for Kay to dote upon, a best friend for Izzy and to her brothers she was simply Sis.

She attended Kitchener School, south of Kisbey. It was a three-mile commute from her home. She made the trek by bike, meeting up with her friend each day for the last leg of the journey.

Being a great deal younger than most of her siblings, Jean learned to play by herself. She was often found in her playhouse, south of their house, atop a hill, playing school in solitude.

Like many Arcola and Kisbey boys, Jean’s four eldest brothers enlisted in the Second World War. She had profound memories from this time. One was the day Bill was wounded. She and Geordie waited for their mother to return from the telegram office, the Christmas pudding burning all the while on the stove. Another recollection was when Bill returned home, bringing a box of stationary back for her.

Not long after, Jean had become fond of a boy from school, Ron Lougheed. The two married April 10, 1952. Jean was only 19 and embraced Ron’s family as her own. Together they raised four children.

In addition to being a mom, Jean worked, initially at the Kisbey Grocery Store and eventually as a custodian for the school. In August 1963, she pioneered working from home when she became the telephone switchboard operator. It was a 24/7 operation that required the Lougheeds to keep the wooden cabinet and various cables and headsets in their home. It blended in with the furniture, and even Ron pitched in routing the calls. Jean had always been a morning person, but being an operator took it to a whole new level. Rick was an early bird too. Together the pair played countless games of aggravation in the wee hours of the day, waiting for the phone to ring.

In 1977, Jean, Ron, and Rick moved to Rocanville after Ron accepted a position with Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan. Jean became school librarian and formed many special friendships with the staff, specifically her niece Sandy. Following Ron’s retirement and Rick joining the military, the empty nesters relocated to Arcola in 1996, and Jean took a custodian job at the Royal Bank where Rhonda was working.

Jean and Ron’s golden years were spent camping, travelling and cheering Rod on wherever he was playing hockey. In the early days, they enjoyed wandering Branson, Memphis, Nashville, Vancouver, Ottawa, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. In the winter of their lives, they travelled to whatever exotic land Netflix and Facebook could take them, all from the comfort of their matching leather rocking chairs.

Jean never said no to anything, least of all an adventure. In her 80s, she experienced Hawaii with Rhonda and Barb, got a tattoo, learned to use a computer, cell phone and Keurig coffeemaker. She kept herself current and connected and never missed wishing someone a happy birthday or anniversary.

She loved a good joke, the more off-colour, the better. She never pulled any punches or let someone win just because. She never missed an opportunity to steal all the hearts, while playing cards.

Her decades of hard work showed on her hands. Yet, she never complained nor hesitated to roll up her sleeves and get to work. Whether it was peeling potatoes for a fowl supper, making sandwiches - and cutting them into three perfectly symmetrical triangles - for a funeral lunch, bringing a gourmet dinner to the field at harvest time or processing tens of dozens of cobs of corn to freeze, she did everything with purpose and to perfection. However, she found fault in everything she did. In her eyes, the meals never turned out the way they should, the flowers didn’t bloom appropriately and her immaculate house was filthy.

Jean was strong. When life gave her lemons, she not only made lemonade, but also two salads, meat, potatoes, a dessert and an alternate dish for the fussy eaters.

She was a devoted wife. To say she was patient would be an understatement. If holding your tongue were an Olympic sport, she would have won gold. Ron never went hungry nor had to wait past 12:00 sharp to eat lunch. When his mobility faltered, she assumed the thankless job of caregiver to keep him at home as long as possible. For nearly 7 decades, the two lived in mostly-constant harmony. They finished each other’s sentences and cigarettes.

Gardening was among Jean’s many talents. It brought her joy her entire life. When she could no longer kneel, she worked at raised garden beds. She harvested her last crop of veggies at 89 years old. Nothing pleased her more than having extra produce brought to her door. She canned tomatoes, salsa, applesauce, and her signature Christmas pudding. Nothing ever went to waste. When she and Rhonda each committed to purchase a dozen farm-fresh eggs, per week, she found several creative ways to consume that many eggs - the most delicious being angel food cake.

GG’s kitchen table was the backdrop to many great memories. It is here those who knew her got to share stories, weather forecasts, worries and her amazing cooking. Her ability to pull a palatable meal together with whatever was left in the fridge was unrivaled. Her pantry was always stocked with ginger snaps, jellybeans and brown sugar for toast. She knew her descendants’ favourite piece of Christmas baking and often stockpiled butter when it was on sale, so no one would go without.

Not once did she say she was too tired or busy for a visitor. Certain times were sacred, however. Curling was not to be interrupted. She was such a dedicated fan she would wake at all hours to watch Team Canada at the Olympics.

GG never let off the gas. She lived each day to its fullest. Adversity merely tempered her. She did not use age as an excuse to stop moving forward. When she couldn’t get out as much, she found bliss in observing the world through a pain of glass, be that her kitchen window where she dutifully did dishes each day, or the windshield of a car. She never refused a chance to see the wildflowers bloom or wildlife roam.

She kept her mind sharp doing puzzles - crossword and jigsaw. When something presented a challenge, she would take a break and return to it. Sometimes a puzzle went back on the shelf for a few months, but it never beat her. When she was ready, she would take the puzzle out again. Piece by piece, she re-assembled the scene.

She lived her life with the same quiet dignity she did those puzzles. It wasn’t always easy. Sometimes a piece went missing or didn’t fit, but she stuck it through to the end and left everyone with a masterpiece to behold.

A celebration of Jean’s life will take place at a later date.

Those so wishing may make donations to the Arcola Cemetery, c/o Town of Arcola, Box 359, Arcola, SK S0C 0G0, in Memory of Jean.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for Jean’s family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

Saturday, March 11: Kipling and District Arts Council present Over the Moon at the Kipling Community Centre on Saturday, March 11, 7:30 pm. Advance tickets are available at Balfour Pharmacy or at www.ticketpro.ca for $25 or at the door for $30. Students (13-18) tickets are $10. Children 12 and under are admitted FREE when accompanied by an adult. Tickets will be on sale that evening for next year’s series of concerts (3 shows for $70). These tickets may be purchased that evening or after March 11 at www.ticketpro.ca.

A draw will be made from all tickets purchased before May 1 for a chance to “win your ticket money back.”

Eleanore

Sedger 1930 - 2023

Eleanore Sedger passed peacefully in her sleep on the morning of Feb 16, 2023 at Good Shepherd Villa, Prince Albert where she has resided for the past 7 years.

Eleanore was born on April 28th, 1930, in Avonlea, Sask. She spent her early years in Weyburn and as an adult moved to Regina until settling in Estevan. For many years during the 1970s she and her husband Russ Sedger operated a successful oilfield company with services provided across the oilpatch. Russ and Eleanore moved to Kenosee Lake about 1970 and made their home there for several years until Russ’s passing in 1974. In about 1980, Eleanore became one of the original partners of the Moose Head Inn and helped operate it until it sold in 1990. Her skills in business were evident by the success of the Moose Head Inn and the work she did in the oil industry.

Eleanore moved to Dore Lake, Sask. in her later years and loved the northern lake life. While she fished a bit, most of her time was spent visiting friends and family and doing puzzles, many of which are still around the lake. Her homes and the Moose Head served as gathering places for her family and friends and held many special occasions from family birthday parties to weddings. She loved music, played the organ and was an active singer in her youth. Eleanore split her retirement years between summers at her home in Dore Lake and winter in an apartment in Prince Albert. She later moved into a care facility in Prince Albert where she lived until her passing.

Eleonore was predeceased by her parents Chester and Grace McKee and her husband Russ. She is survived by her sister Shirley (Barry) McLellan of Saskatoon/Dore Lake, brother Vern (Phyllis) of Salmon Arm, B.C. , several cousins and in laws (and a few Outlaws) and many nephews and nieces.

Eleanor lived a life enjoying work, friends, and family. She was a generous person who always offered that tool or recipe ingredient she thought she may have had in her house at Dore and while she may not have known where it was, if she offered it, then it was likely there.

Her family offer our sincere thanks to the amazing staff of Good Shepherd Villa for their care and constant friendship of Eleanore. We know you made her last years a pleasant time and we thank you. She will be interred next to Russ in the Weyburn Cemetery after a family service one sunny day this summer.

NOTICES

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In Loving Memory of Edith Scott

Who passed away February 25, 2017

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear.

Loved and Remembered forever by Dianne, Val, Patti, Vicki, Geraldene, Carolyn, Linda and families

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1866-405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

FINANCIAL SERVICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF MARY HAINSWORTH, LATE OF CARNDUFF, IN THE PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN, DECEASED.

All claims against the above estate, dully verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 31st of March, 2023.

McGeough Zepick Law Office 1222 - 5th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan S4A 0Z6 Solicitors for the Executors

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: needed this winter for dozers, excavators, rock trucks: near Carrot River, Sk. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 brydenconstruct@ www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

February’s Sask. land sale eclipses $3 million mark

The Government of Saskatchewan’s latest Crown petroleum and natural gas public offering, held on Feb. 7, has raised more than $3.1 million in revenue for Saskatchewan.

The February sale is the final public offering scheduled for the 202223 fiscal year, bringing the total amount of revenue for 2022-23 to more than $49 million.

Of the 54 parcels posted, 48 received acceptable bids covering 6,651.74 hectares. The

average bonus bid was $466.09 per hectare.

Overall, the Lloydminster area saw the most interest, bringing in $1,798,538.17 for 12 leases and four exploration licenses, totaling 3,891.32 hectares.

The southeast region brought in $981,870.64 for 26 leases totaling 1,819.14 hectares.

The highest bonus bid received on a lease in this offering is $270,891.76 for a 243.43-hectare lease located southwest of Lashburn. Synergy

Land Services Ltd. was awarded this lease.

An exploration license, totaling 582.75 hectares, received a bonus bid of $611,882.25 or $1,050 per hectare.

This license is located northeast of Lloydminster and within the Northminster Sparky Oil Pool. The successful bidder was Metropolitan Resources Inc.

A parcel posted 16 kilometres east of North Portal received the highest dollar per hectare bid of $3,156.67. Vermillion

Energy bid $101,581.64 for the 32.18-hectare lease. This parcel is located within the Northgate-Frobisher beds oil pool. The highest bonus bid in the southeast was $139,443.95, or $2,162.76 per hectare, for a 64.475-hectare lease that is located 19 kilometres east of North Portal, also adjacent to the Northgate-Frobisher beds oil pool. Vermillion was awarded this lease. In the Lloydminster area, 16 leases for

3,114.025 hectares were posted, and 12 of them were purchased, covering 2,304.27 hectares, for a total of $672,212.17, or 291.72 per hectare.

Four licences were also posted for 1,587 hectares, and all four were sold for a total of $1.12 million, or $709.70 per hectare.

In the Kindersley-Kerrobert area, the total bonus received in this area was $319,881.76, an average of $339.84 per hectare.

Seven leases for

957.496 hectares were posted, and six encompassing 941.275 hectares were sold for $339.84 per hectare.

The highest bonus bid received on a parcel in this area was $196,705.86, or $757.33 per hectare. This 259.736-hectare lease was awarded to Prairie Land & Investment Services Ltd., and is located 27 kilometres northwest of Elrose, adjacent to the Tones Viking Formation gas pool.

The next sale is scheduled for April 4.

Maryfi eld Sunrise Villa thankful for great music

By Janet Mark

An exceptional group of musicians from the Kipling, Kennedy and Wawota area came and sang at the Villa recently without a sheet of music or song book.

The words of favourite songs came up from our memories to join in. One man chorded on the piano, there were guitars and violins with a mouth

organ and ocarina. They grew up singing together.

Music has also been a big part of my life too. My father gave up violin lessons when he came west but when his barn was built he found a piano and hoisted it into the loft with the hay slings for barn dances.

This was the First World War in 1918 and the new principal

of Tyvan School was a woman from the Ottawa Valley. I know I was exposed to music in retro. Music teachers came to Tyvan on the Saturday morning train and went back at night. I had a few lessons in the spring or fall, when I could bicycle to town.

The school, which trained teachers at 18 years old, sent a girl to teach and she replaced

the man who joined up from 1939-1945. Over the years, there were a few boys in my music classes.

In May, I went to a junior room and spent two years teaching there. There was always a church or choir to join as well. I often went to the school on Saturdays to listen to the Metropolitan Opera in place. I bought a piano with my

savings from teaching and Leonard built me a sound system to play my record collection.

Music is still a part of my life here at the Villa, with four congregations coming to worship with us and many other singing groups. We thank you.

From Angela:

January has come and gone very quickly. The weather for the

most part has been quite nice. We have finished our shuffleboard tournament and the playoffs and now onto the second tournament. We have been enjoying some floor curling games the last few weeks.

Everyone enjoyed watching one of our staff members’ sons play in the SaskTel Tankard in the final match. Way to go Brayden Stewart.

Wawota salutes accomplishments of former resident

By Myrna Olson

Congratulations to

Carmen Hamilton of Moosomin, a former Wawota resident. She is a Realtor who was in the top 10 of the 18,000 Royal Le Page Realtors in Canada. She was also awarded a Diamond Award for 2022.

Sympathy to Morley and Joan Hamilton on the passing of Joan’s aunt Jean Lougheed of Arcola. She died on Feb. 4 at the age of 90 years.

Blair and Ava Wilson enjoyed a holiday to Aruba recently.

The U13 hockey team won two games against Southey, one away game and one at home. They proceeded on to the

second round against Milestone. They won the first game against Milestone 8-2.

The U15 team has advanced to the second round of playoffs.

Trevor Latham is now the owner of the former Ed and Dale Lynn Fahlman home on Lonsdale Street.

Members of the Wawota United Church travelled to Maryfield last Sunday to join the Maryfield congregation for worship. The service was followed by a noon potluck meal and then the Crossroads meeting.

Congratulations to Mel and Vivian Vail on the birth of a great-grandson, Wesley Rae Filteau, of Westborough, Mass. He

Worship

was born on Feb. 5 and weighed eight pounds, 12 ounces. His parents are Chad and Miranda Filteau and grandparents are Lori and Gerry Filteau of Regina.

Happy birthday to George Eisler, who celebrated his 96th birthday on Feb. 12. Daughters Kim Ursell of Calgary and Joan Gartner of Montreal both visited during the week.

Sympathy to the family and friends of Irene Husband, who passed away at the age of 95 years. She spent her later years at the Maryfield Sunrise Villa. She passed away on Feb. 16. Irene was predeceased by her husband Freeman and her daughter Shirley Monuik, and

Hours

Full Gospel Church Welcomes You 202-4th St. W. Service Schedule: Sunday morning Service 10:30 a.m.

Jesus Still Heals Today Wed. evening Bible Study 7:30 p.m. 306-453-2512

Pastor Rodney & Gail Cox

is survived by Larry and Wendy and their families.

Brett and Kim Westphal of Wrentham, Alta., spent last week visiting with Carol Westphal, who is in respite care at Deer View Lodge. They also visited with other family members.

Born to Megan Smulan and Blaine Ehr, a son on Feb. 15. He weighed eight pounds, five ounces, and has been named Hudson Arthur. He is a brother for Rylan, a grandson for Randy and Kerry Smulan and Werner Ehr, and a great-grandson for Ken Smulan and Bernie Williamson.

Sympathy to the family and friends on the passing of Clifford Wilson at the Integrated

at the Church

Church of Our Lady, Carlyle

Father Chris Carlyle Saturday at 7 p.m. Sunday at 11 a.m. Kenosee: Saturday at 5 p.m. Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200

Health Centre in Moosomin. He died on Feb. 19 at the age of 94 years. He was predeceased by his wife Eva and is survived by his family of Lorena, David, Sherri,

Cathy, Blair and Carmen and their families. Vincent Shackleton and his fiancée J’Naya Cunningham have purchased the former Betty Drumm house.

May we sug we suggest placing your ad in color color!

Who says color doesn’t call attention to your advertisement? Itjustdid.

Call 306-453-2525

Arcola-Kisbey United Church

Worship Times: 10a.m.

KISBEY: 1st & 3rd Sunday

ARCOLA: 2nd & 4th Sunday 5th Sunday to be announced at church 306-455-0011

Please join us for worship

Roman Catholic Oxbow/Cantal/ Carnduff

Worship - 11:00 a.m.

Pastors Kevin & Bev Kay

Church: 306-739-2313

Odd Job Rob wants to help people with various tasks

By Stephanie Zoer

Robert Stewart and his soon-to-be wife

Chrissy moved to Arcola on the Labour Day long weekend last year. They have two adult children and one grandson.

His mom and stepfather manage the Chaparral in Arcola and since they are getting older, he felt the need to be closer to them so he could help them out with small repairs that they are no longer able to complete.

Stewart and his partner moved to Arcola from Swift Current, although Stewart was

born and raised in Saskatoon and Chrissy was a farm girl from Sturgis.

Stewart has a background in construction and even took a year apprentice for electrical work.

Upon moving to Arcola, the pair helped his parents with repairs such as replacing light fixtures and taps.

They are willing to do the odd jobs, and this is where the name Odd Job Rob came from.

They can paint the interior of homes, replace small windows, tile bathrooms and tackle any odd jobs that are available.

Stewart feels the need to help people with the odd jobs that no one else wants to do or has the time for.

According to Stewart, people often start a project and get halfway through it to realize they cannot finish it, and this is where he comes into play.

This team wants to do the small jobs that the large contractors do not have time for, said Stewart.

Stewart also did some landscaping and maintenance for several years.

He considers himself a jack of all trades and looks forward to a busy year.

Sixty-four rink bonspiel to mark special milestone

The Lampman Curling Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and has a major event in the works.

The club will host a 64-rink bonspiel from March 29-April 2, with games happening at the town’s curling rink and arena, which will be converted to curling ice. Calvin Christensen, who is the chairman of the rink board, said they have 4550 teams already signed up, and they will accept the 64 teams that register and pay.

“If they want to make sure to get in, then they have to pay,” said Christensen. “If they say they want to curl but they haven’t paid, and someone comes in … we have to take the paid entries.”

They need people to sign up as soon as possible because they need to start working on the tournament’s draw. The times for the games won’t be known until the draw is finalized.

Several special added attractions are part of the event. A western wing night will happen on March 29, followed by taco and tequila the following night and a bonspiel banquet and opening ceremonies on March 31. The banquet will boast smoked beef and chicken from the Carnivores meat shop in Lampman.

“We’re trying to keep a bunch of our stuff all from local businesses, so we’ve got some of the local businesses that are going to help with all of

the fixings,” said Christensen.

An Irish and Scottish pub and Singo music game will be on April 1, and a supper on April 2 will clean out the kitchen.

People can drop by to watch the games, and tickets will be sold for the various suppers. The regular curling lounge will be open, and an additional bar will be set up at the hockey arena, Christensen said.

Due to the amount of curling that will occur and the tight schedule for the competition, the banquet on March 31 will be relatively short with a come and-go format. There won’t be a guest speaker.

The entertainment and decorating committee has been trying to find pictures from the past, and they want to have as many photos as possible.

Grimes Sales and Service (2020) is the event’s major sponsor.

“We’d love to see that if anybody has ever curled at the Lampman Curling Rink, maybe they can’t curl there [for the 64-rink bonspiel] but they can come and sit down and reminisce. Maybe they curled in the older rink.”

Lampman has not hosted a 64-rink bonspiel as far as Christensen knows, and so they thought the 100th

anniversary would be a good time to host such an ambitious competition.

“For a small club like ours that is basically volunteer-run, I think it’s a pretty special thing that it’s lasted for 100 years, so we wanted to really make something memorable out of it, which is why, just over a year ago now, we started talking about a 64,” said Christensen.

The rink’s executive and a tournament committee have been working hard over the past year to get everything in place.

Alameda has hosted a 64-rink bonspiel in the past, and Christensen

said they have talked to people from that community about their event.

“They’ve offered us some of their scoreboards that they use, because, of course, we have to get extra scoreboards and things like that,” said Christensen.

A shuttle will be offered for anybody who is coming from Estevan to compete and enjoy curling.

The first curling rink built in Lampman in 1923 was an open-air facility. It started with one sheet, with planks for spectators to stand on.

A rink was built in 1953, and the current one opened in 1981.

Arcola and surrounding areas 306-315-4100

From left-Robert Stewart and his soon-to-be wife Chrissy enjoy the small jobs.

Photo by Robert Stewart