The Observer March 17, 2023

By Stephanie Zoer

Blake Lamontagne was a regular teenager from Wawota, but his life would change on July 8, 2007, when he was in a car crash.

He was 16 years old that fateful night when he was rushed to the hospital with a grocery list of injuries. He had a broken back and neck, along with a broken shoulder and wrist, to name a few.

Lamontagne would travel down a road of uncertainties beginning with traction, therapy and physio. He had to learn about the life of a paraplegic. He said it was a gift and a curse at the same time.

For seven years, the young man felt bitter, angry and alone. He felt sorry for himself, but in 2014 that would all change.

Lamontagne met Chris Pearson and Nick Doulias, two people who would change his life. They gave him the inspiration to try something new and taught him how to remain positive through it all.

He shut down the partying and picked up the weights, but he also began to water ski. This gave him purpose in his life.

As he began to get in shape, he also started enjoying waterskiing and it seemed to come natu-

Heart of the Moose

rally to him. His number one supporter, his mom Melanie Brimner, was always rooting for him, as were his younger siblings Blaine and Brayanne.

Lamontagne’s first year in training in Charlotte, N.C., had him meeting people who had the same issues as himself, and he said it felt good to talk to people that understood.

When Lamontagne straps on the water skis, it gives him freedom and it makes him feel alive, and the feeling he can do something that most normal people cannot.

He does a vigorous workout six days a week to prepare for these competitions, and he is a

natural when it comes to tricks on the water and holds a Canadian record for tricks and jumps.

Although he has already gained enough points to go to the world championships, he will attend westerns in Abbotsford, B.C., from July 21-22, nationals in Edmonton from Aug. 7-11, and provincials in Saskatoon on Aug. 19. This is the tentative date.

In September he will travel to Shortline Lake in Elk Grove, Calif., to participates in the International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation World Disabled Waterski Championship.

His mom, Brimner will

accompany him, as she has for many of his trips around the world to go to competitions.

Lamontagne will be in three events, tricks, jumps and slalom, and he feels there is a good chance for him to hold a world record there.

In 2017 he went to Australia and two years later, he travelled to Norway. Lamontagne received the Adaptive Athlete of the Year Award in 2021.

He always enjoyed sports and will attend the annual sledge hockey tournament in Wawota on March 24-26. This is an event that Brimner began around seven years ago.

People from all over come to play in this tournament for people with disabilities. It is a great weekend, according to Lamontagne.

The sledge hockey tournament will have raffle prizes and these funds are to help send Lamontagne to the world championship.

He remembers very vividly what he has gone through, and what he had to do to get to where he is today. He often hears that he was lucky, and he agrees that he is lucky to be alive, but the rest of it was challenging work. Every step of the way took willpower and dedication.

Blake Lamontagne received an Adaptive Athlete of the Year Award in 2021. Photo by Blake Lamontagne

Your first stop to find events happening in our community!

March

Tues, March 21 - Community Night - Carlyle Library

Wed, Mar 22 - Carlyle Golf AGM - Carlyle Rink

Fri, March 31 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

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

April

Sat, April 1 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

Sat, April 1 - Tradeshow - Carlyle Memorial Hall

Sun, April 2 - Kisbey Dinner Theatre - Kisbey

Sat, April 8 - Moose Mountain Wildlife Federation - Supper and Auction

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.

Shake the Winter Blues Act 2 was a hit in Oxbow

By Gord Paulley

The Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee had another successful Shake

the Winter Blues concert at the Oxbow branch of the Royal Canadian Legion last Thursday night.

The featured groups

were Chad Staples, the Harmoniously Hip, Cory Hill, and C. Hill and the Gang.

Local resident Lori Moncrief has attended countless performances in the past and offered her assessment of the evening.

“Chad Staples and his guitar started the evening off with ballads. His humble and sincere performance was well received, and the committee is pleased he agreed to perform as he hasn’t been doing public performances lately,” said Moncrief.

“Harmoniously Hip is well-known in the southeast as Erin Brown and Kathy Kyle have performed at many community events. This relaxed and talented duo doesn’t practise often – they are just too darn busy at this time of life – but they always find the right songs which complement their harmonies and please the crowds.

“Cory Hill hails from Carnduff and is new to the committee’s events. He comes from a musical family and his guitar numbers and strong vocals were entertaining.

“C. Hill and the Gang has Cory as the lead singer. He was joined by Erin Brown, vocals and guitar, Quince Bou-

tin, guitar, Hal Nielsen, drums, and Sean Brown, also on guitar. These busy fellas didn’t practise too many times before they filled the hall with a string of upbeat tunes and harmonica solos by Cory. They were pleased with the opportunity to perform and thanked the committee several times for asking them to the event.”

Sandy Dalziel is an Oxbow resident who also attended.

“The music was fabulous, and it was a fulfilled night. There was a

great crowd, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The legion was a great venue to host an event such as this and the smell of freshly made popcorn was nostalgic.

“Southeastern Saskatchewan has a lot of good, quality homegrown talent. And a big shout out to all the organizers and volunteers who work so hard to have these events so all of us can enjoy.”

Brad Mayer is an original member of the Arts and Cultural Committee and was extremely

pleased with the great turnout and quality of entertainment.

“The goal of our committee is to showcase local entertainment and talent. And we did it again, in a very big way.”

“Given the large crowd in attendance, it is likely that more of this type of event will be organized again. Overall, it was another great musical event,” added Moncrief.

This was the second Shake the Winter Blues event. The first one was held in Alameda earlier this year.

Steven

Bonk, MLA

Steven Bonk, MLA

for Moosomin Constituency

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

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

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday

Kathy Kyle and Erin Brown performed as the Harmoniously Hip.

Chad Staples performed at the Oxbow branch of the Royal Canadian Legion last Thursday night. Photos courtesy of the Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee

Act One Productions wows the crowds in Alida

By Gord Paulley

Act One Productions provided great entertainment with their production of I Take This Man by Jack Sharkey.

The play is set in an apartment building in modern-day Boston. Giddy, who is always on the lookout for love, happens to stumble upon who she feels is finally Mr. Right. Complications quickly escalate in this comedy as new developments come to life in Giddy’s pursuit for love.

The cast of five included local actors and actresses Wes and Rachelle Smith, Sheldon Kyle, Shanna Carriere and Tim Cowan. Carriere was back for her 23rd year on stage, and Cowan for his 24th consecutive year. Wes and Rachelle Smith have eight and five years of experience, respectively, and Kyle made his debut.

The last production for Act One was in 2018. With last year’s death of Alidaarea resident Lynette Peet and waning pandemic restrictions, the group got together last fall and decided on performing again.

Many living in the Alida area helped with either the play and/or dinner theatre. Melissa Gervais handled the catering duties, and many residents took the time to pitch in and help. It was a team effort and the shows attracted audiences from all over southeast Saskatchewan.

Performances were in the evening of March 9, 10 and 12, and a matinee was held March 12.

Lorna Sylvestre and friends from Redvers and Oxbow attended the March 9 night event.

“I have been attending the Alida theatre plays for many years and it was great to see them up and going again. Although Thursday was the first night, the actors didn’t miss a beat.”

“It was appetizer night, and the variety of foods were delicious. Many hours were spent in decorating the hall and even the students from school did their part in supplying many purple hearts on the walls in honour of Lynette Peet.

“The play was lighthearted and funny. Our table of eight had a lot of laughs and it was great to enjoy live actors again. Complete community

involvement is needed to put on an event such as this and the half hour drive was well worth it. You don’t have to go to the city to be thoroughly entertained. We look forward to next year’s performance.”

On March 10, Glenda Nielsen attended the dinner and show.

“After a four-year hiatus, the Act One cast and crew were back in fine form, treating the audience to a live comedy show full of surprises. As always, the show reflected the commitment of the entire community to showing guests a terrific evening with attention to every detail from hall and set decorations, to costumes, make up and food. You can always tell when it is drama week in Alida.”

Susan Shepherd of Alameda attended the event on March 12.

“My friends and I were treated to a fabulous evening. What a well-attended and great event for a small town. The young people who were waiters and waitresses did such a good job of looking after everyone. Congratulations to all who participated.”

Tim Cowan was both an actor and a producer of the show.

“It felt amazing to be back. To see the town and surrounding community back after a four-year break to put on a show like this makes you feel proud to live in such a tight-knit community with a great group of volunteers.

“I felt the event went very well and I cannot stress this enough, it couldn’t have been done without the help of the many volunteers who put in hundreds of hours of work. This year’s event began with an organizational meeting in November

with three-a-week practices beginning the first of January.

“Lynette Peet was one of those people who took on many roles behind the scenes and it was an honour to dedicate this performance to her in her memory.

“The proceeds from the event get donated back to the Alida Recreation Board to assist with operational expenses. Sometimes the funds get earmarked to a specific project that they might have, such as the new pool they built a few years ago or rink renovations needed after the 2014 flood.

“It’s too early to know what next year will bring but with the excitement brought on from this year’s performance, it would seem to be a good possibility we can do it again. We will be holding an organizational meeting again in November.”

Alida news - a wonderful weekend in the village

Submitted by Edel Cowan

It’s over. What a weekend for Act One Productions showing of I Take this Man; a mixed bag of surprises, including the weather.

It’s definitely one weekend that will not be forgotten for a while. Our drama evenings on March 9, 10 and 12 went off without any mishaps, except for the winter storm which arrived March 10.

It made it difficult for some to make it home.

Due to the storm, the March 11 performance would be the first in 27 shows that they to cancel for a supper theatre. It would be moved to the night of March 12 with times remaining the same. There would be two shows – the matinee at 2 p.m., supper at 6 p.m. with a show at 8 p.m. It could be done.

On March 12, everything was buried under snow. We had to shovel steps off in

order to get in the door. Of course one had to wait, as the snowplow was kept busy opening up streets, lanes and roads before one could move vehicles around.

Come March 12, there was a small but enthused crowd at the matinee. They seemed to enjoy the show. The cookies and drinks were appreciated during the breaks and after the show. Then we got busy, cleaning and preparing the hall for the dinner theater by setting the tables.

Come 5 p.m., our volunteer workers and guests began to arrive. Before one knew it the hall was full and the delicious supper was underway. Once this was finished, cleaned up and completed the show was underway again. Everyone was enjoying the show.

During the second intermission, the $1,000 ticket raffle was drawn and the lucky winner was Jordan Beriault of Alida. Congratulations Jordan. The evening came to a close.

There was then much visiting among the guests and cast before the lights were turned out. A great way to end the drama week.

Adeline Wiens from Maidstone was in attendance at the Act One Productions performance on March 12. She was spending some time visiting with her family the Poiriers near Manor.

The Alida community wishes to extend a big welcome to Colin and Lois

Chenard of Victoria, B.C., who have now made their new home on the acreage west of Alida (formerly the Kailey Betts/Albert Germain acreage). Welcome folks. I hope you’ll enjoy our little community.

The Sunday Breakfast Challenge at the hall was cancelled on March 12 due to the winter storm. So the Breakfast Challenge remains the same at 68 and on March 19 all will hopefully be back to normal.

A good crowd attended the Alida Memorial Hall for all four showings.

The cast of I Take This Man, from left, Wes Smith, Rachelle Smith, Sheldon Kyle, Shanna Carriere and Tim Cowan. Photos by Linda Akins

“As I have said, the first thing is to be honest with yourself. You can never have an impact on society if you have not changed yourself... Great peacemakers are all people of integrity, of honesty, but humility.”

- Nelson Mandela

I am a farm girl at heart

Stephanie Zoer

Just a few words

Farming has changed a lot since I was a kid, but that was a very long time ago.

I was raised on a dairy farm in southern Ontario and it was a great life.

We had 36 Holstein milking cows and one jersey cow for chocolate milk. This is what my brother told me, and I believed this for some time.

These cows all had names and they had their own stall in the barn. Once in a while, a heifer would go in the wrong spot when coming into the barn, which would cause chaos for the older cows that knew better.

We had one Holstein bull. That bull was meaner than the day was long, but he had nice calves and threw a lot of heifer calves, so he was kept around.

When the cows were out to pasture with the bull, one did not walk in the field as the bull would charge, so I simply would hop on my horse to herd the cows for milking. After all the horse could outrun that bull, but I could not.

Finally, that bull was sold after it tried to run my dad over. I can still see it today, my dad running for his life and crawling under the electric fence with that bull on his heels.

Spring, summer and fall field work happened on our 160 acres. We had a 45 and 50-horsepower Neufeld tractors, a 10-foot seed drill, a three-furrow plow and a two-row corn harvester that was pulled by a 1650-cockshut tractor that even had a cab. We had a John Deere putt-putt tractor and the coffee getter, which was a 8N Ford tractor.

All our hay and straw were put up in small squares. I was eight years old and drove the tractor and baler, while dad loaded the wagon. Siblings got to unload and stack the hay in the barn in the mow. Mow stacking was the worst job of all.

Cows were milked at the same time each day, twice a day, seven days a week. Before school I went to the barn and fed calves and did the same when I got home. I loved that job.

We also had around 30 Hereford cows, which had their own bull, but he was pretty easy going.

Our equipment was not fancy, but it worked well, as dad maintained it well. When dad got ill the cows were sold and we kept only the Herefords.

Has farming really changed? Not really. Farmers today still have the same passion. They still have to work in all kinds of weather. If it is cattle, they go out in snowstorms to check their cows in calving season. When the spring is super wet, they cannot get the crops in, and this stresses a farmer. Not only is this their bread and butter, but it also fills the shelves of our food markets.

Kids are still taught the value of farming and it is great. I remember the love of being on the farm, although I had siblings that did not like it at all.

The equipment is bigger, much bigger, but so are the fields. The farms are larger, and the herds of cattle are huge, but it hasn’t changed the love of a farmer. It is in their blood to do the job.

Seeding is done at a quicker rate and the technology is far more advanced. Seminars are held to help farmers, whether it be from improving field production to producing a healthier cow.

Farming to me is a gift, and most farmers have a passion for the job.

Without farmers, we would not eat, it is as simple as that. So, when you go to the grocery store and purchase your food, remember to thank a farmer. Whether they be big or small, they feed us all.

Are you getting enough sleep?

the immune system, and increases energy levels.

Have you heard someone joke that they are so busy they don’t have time to sleep? It might be a bit exaggerated but make no mistake, not sleeping is no joking matter. Many variables are involved, to be sure, but it’s not something we should ignore.

For some it is a serious medical and physical issue requiring professional help. For others, it might be taking a look at how we approach our waking hours. Are there things we are doing during the day that are preventing us from getting some decent rest at night?

It is a question asked often. Or some variation of it. “Are you able to sleep?” “How are you sleeping?” “How much sleep have you been getting?”

I have asked that question of people in my circle a fair bit the last while; someone fighting a bad cough, a woman dealing with the stress of a demanding job, and a friend whose mother died unexpectedly. It was a question posed out of concern, with the obvious underlying message that getting adequate sleep might be helpful in these difficult circumstances.

It’s true. Getting sleep is indeed helpful. In fact, lack of sleep is linked to weaker immunity, poorer cardiovascular health, impaired judgement, slower reaction times, inability to cope with stressful situations and on it goes. On the flip side, sleep promotes good brain health, boosts

The theme for this year’s World Sleep Day, to be held March 17, is Sleep Is Essential for Health. Essential; a word meaning necessary. Vital. Crucial. Imperative. Can it be any clearer than that?

The co-chair of World Sleep Day 2023, Dr. Fang Han, said, “Just because sleep is a natural behaviour does not mean that sleep should be taken for granted.” But we seem to be taking it for granted, or worse, underestimating its importance. A recent survey found that Canadians aged 35-64 are not getting enough sleep and 61 per cent said they have cancelled plans because they are so tired.

We’re not alone. Canadians and Americans are some of the most sleep-deprived people in the world, bested only by those in the United Kingdom and Ireland who are worse off when it comes to sleep. So the question we need to ask ourselves is what are we going to do about it?

Experts remind us of the importance of proper diet and regular exercise and their impact on sleep, yet those responding to the sleep survey said their schedules don’t allow time for healthy meal prep and there certainly aren’t enough hours to exercise daily.

We’re also told we need to stick to regular routines and a consistent bedtime (including weekends). How are we doing with this? Well, the majority of responders said their lives are so chaotic they can’t possibly predict what time they might fall into bed each night.

There’s something else as well, and it might be the biggest obstacle of all. We’re told we need to avoid using electronic devices before going to bed. Notice the vocabulary used by the experts: avoid. Not limit. Not reduce. Avoid. Yet almost three-quarters of people report they are on their phones or computers right before trying to sleep.

We no longer shut down distractions and focus on sleep. Instead, phones beep and bing all night with incoming messages and alerts, creating a culture that demands we always be accessible and that whatever is coming across the screen is more important than anything else. More important than sleep. More important than our very health.

Our TVs, computers, and yes, even our phones, have ‘off ’ buttons, but regrettably it seems to be the least used feature of all. And it’s costing us our physical and mental well-being. The price we are paying is too high.

We’ve created a construct in which we have erroneously determined our value is in how overloaded we are, our need to be available to everyone at any time, and declaring “I’m too busy to sleep” like it’s a badge of honour. It’s not. No one is impressed. We’re just hurting ourselves.

It’s time to make sleep a priority. Easier said than done? Perhaps. But if we do nothing, nothing will improve. It starts with demonstrating that our health is more important than our screens, and our well-being means more to us than our activities. Too much depends on it. So go and take a guiltfree nap. Doctor’s orders. That’s my outlook.

Shelley Luedtke

Lampman showed great support for fundraiser

The people of the Lampman area were very generous with their support during a fundraiser for a teenage southeast Saskatchewan resident battling a rare disease.

A breakfast and auction fundraiser was held at the town’s community complex last month, raising $17,410 for the family of Kyla Dyer, who has been diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a condition that affects bone marrow. She will require a bone marrow transplant.

A cheque was presented to the Dyer family March 7.

Linda Tremblay, who was one of the organizers for the event, said she was impressed with

the generosity of the people and how well the fundraiser went. People steadily passed through

the doors of the complex for breakfast. There was a 50-50 draw, a raffle and a live auction that

had a large variety of items, including meat packages, golf memberships, appliances,

gift certificates, and items from businesses throughout the region.

The amount of money

Report from the Saskatchewan Legislature

By Cannington MLA

Daryl Harrison

Our government is back in Regina for the spring session of the legislature.

Members of the Legislative Assembly have been in their communities, meeting with constituents and learning about the things that matter most to Saskatchewan people. Our government will move forward on priorities for growth during this sitting of the legislature.

Our province leads the nation in a number of key economic indicators. Statistics Canada reported in January we had the highest rate of growth in wholesale trade among the provinces, increasing 24.1 per cent year over year. Manufacturing sales were up by 25.5 per cent, the second-highest growth rate among provinces.

Saskatchewan posted a third consecutive year of record agri-food exports in 2022, totaling $18.4 billion. Last year, for the first time, exports to Mexico exceeded a total of $1 billion. This record further highlights strong agricultural capacities, with canola seed, canola oil and non-durum wheat making up the top three exports. The trade office our government opened in Mexico City last year, along with seven others throughout the world, continue to help drive Saskatchewan exports in the international market.

We plan to open another trade office in Germany later this year.

Daryl Harrison

Our strong economy is supported by our growing population. Saskatchewan reached the milestone of 1.2 million people in early December of 2022 and has since grown by another 10,000 people. That’s the fastest our province has grown in over 100 years.

We saw 16,400 new jobs in the province from January 2022 to January 2023. The unem-

ployment rate was 4.3 per cent and is below the national average of 5.0 per cent. We also saw a record-high provincial labour force in January, with 606,300 Saskatchewan people working.

Our government is committed to protecting this economic prosperity and allowing for continued growth. In recent years, the current federal government has proposed several harmful policies that infringe on provincial jurisdiction over natural resources. These policies disproportionately impact the economics of Western Canadian provinces.

Along with an increase to the carbon tax, the federal government has proposed standards and caps for fuel, fertilizer, oil and gas emissions, and electricity. It is estimated that these policies could cost our economy $111 billion by 2035.

Our government’s ob-

BEST BUYS IN USED EQUIPMENT

jective is to protect Saskatchewan’s economy, now and into the future, so we can continue doing what the province does best: providing the food, fuel and fertilizer the world needs. That’s why we introduced the Saskatchewan First Act during the fall sitting. The Act will protect

our jurisdiction over natural resources to the benefit of everyone living in this province. It’s time to draw the line and reassert the rights that belong to us - Saskatchewan people own the resources and we should benefit when the prices are high. Our government expects to pass the

raised exceeded her expectations.

Tremblay said Kyla is still in hospital.

“The family is overwhelmed and grateful by all of the love and prayers and generosity from the community and the surrounding communities, because we had people from Carlyle, Oxbow, Estevan and a bunch of other communities that sent stuff in.”

There were some businesses that she heard of for the first time because they supported the auction.

“I was amazed by how much we actually did make from all of the donations and the auction and the breakfast,” said Tremblay.

Saskatchewan First Act this spring.

As we prepare for the spring session of the legislature and the presentation of the provincial budget, our government remains focused on protecting and driving Saskatchewan’s economy. That’s growth that works for everyone.

Many items were available for a live auction during a fundraiser in Lampman last month. Photo courtesy of Linda Tremblay

Walk-In tubs can help seniors

By Stephanie Zoer

When people get older, they often struggle getting in and out of the tub and Brian Kreutzer feels the walk-in tub is the way to go.

Kreutzer is the manager of Walk-In Tubs in Regina, and was formerly the owner.

Walk-In Tubs was designed and created in Ituna in 1992 and has remained a Canadian company.

Kreutzer, who once sold therapeutic beds, was intrigued with the tub as it is a helpful tool

for seniors, and he believes in offering healthy alternatives to keep seniors in their own homes longer.

According to Kreutzer, these tubs keep seniors at home for five years more. He said it is not so much getting into the tub that is the struggle, it is getting out, once a person is sitting in the tub it is difficult for them to stand.

These tubs are slightly shorter than a regular tub, but they compensate by putting drywall in the space. The tubs also hook up to the existing plumb-

ing. The front of the tub has a door that swings either in or out.

There are several designs and have a 17-inch seat, which is the same height as a kitchen chair. The seating has a nonslip base along with the bottom of the tub. The tub also has a special coating.

Jetted tubs are heated from the seat and the back, along with a cryotherapy light. There is also a well to hold essential oils.

Walk-In tubs allow people to get in and out of the tub with great ease. Simply open the door and there will be no high steps any longer, said Kreutzer.

The company travels throughout Saskatchewan and the units carry a lifetime guarantee, as long as the original owner has the home.

Kreutzer feels these tubs help better a senior’s life. It is relaxing and

stress free, and overall helps with health. They no longer need to worry

about falling out of the tub with a walk-in tub.

Kreutzer loves his job

as he is helping people feel better in their home, and this is what he loves.

Prairie Pride Credit Union Notice of Director Elections

Prairie Pride Credit Union is seeking to elect Board of Directors for the following branches: 3 Directors at the Alameda Branch (1-3 year terms) 1 Director at the Alida Branch (3 year term)

1 Director at the Gainsborough Branch (3 year term) Nomination forms are available from any of the staff of Prairie Pride Credit Union where an election is required or any member of the nominating committee.

Eligibility qualifications are included on the reverse side of the nomination form. Nominations must be received by Prairie Pride Credit Union no later than 4:00pm, Friday March 31st, 2023.

Election week has been established as April 17th, 2023 to April 21st, 2023 inclusive.

The Rural Municipality of Reciprocity No. 32 is accepting applications for 2 Seasonal Public Works Employees

These are seasonal positions, commencing May 16th, 2023 with guaranteed work until August 31st, 2023, and may be extended by mutual agreement.

Responsibilities include ditch mowing, performing regular preventative maintenance on machines and equipment, and all other duties as assigned or needed. Experience is preferred, but not required.

Applicants must have a valid driver’s licence and the ability to work with minimal supervision.

Submit cover letter and resume, stating experience and references, by

CALL FOR TENDER

Locally Invested, Exceptionally Driven

Locally Invested, Exceptionally Driven

Saundra Corkish from Wawota is incredibly happy with her Fairmount model walk-in tub. Photo by Brian Kreutzer

Photos by Stephanie Zoer

Stoughton curling season ends with a glow

By Stephanie Zoer

The Stoughton curling season has come to an end, and they finished with a mixed glow-in-thedark bonspiel hosted by Crossroads Inn and Grill. Twelve teams had entered the fun bonspiel on March 11, but due to the blizzard only eight teams were able to attend, as they were all in the Stoughton area.

According to Jennifer Hogg, the lighting created a lot of fun and competition.

The special paint used is placed when the ice surface is being made and lit up with black lights.

During the week, the junior curlers wrapped up their season with the glow-in-the-dark as well and the Stoughton Central School also came

out to try their hand at curling.

Crossroads Inn sponsored several helmets for the kids to use. Grade 2 all the way to grade 12 came out to play the game and have some fun for two days. Each grade had the chance to play several games before heading back to school.

Hogg is hoping with the school coming out, that it might spark some

The Stoughton Co-op Association

Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday April 19, 2023 at the Stoughton Legion Supper is at 6:00pm, with meeting to follow Call for Nominations

2 Directors – 3 Year Terms

(512 Railway Ave)

Nomination Forms must be returned no later than 5pm April 12th, 2023

We would like to invite all our members to take this opportunity to see how we performed over the last year as well as get the opportunity to see what is in store for the upcoming year.

512 – Rail way Ave

Purchase before April 12, 2022

interest in the students to join the junior league in the fall.

“It has been a great season,” said Hogg, who entered a team into the March 11 bonspiel.

Her team did well, and it ended up that Hogg’s team, which was with Karla Gervais, Rhonda Sangster and Lea Hemp-

hill, played off against their husbands Jeremy Hogg, Matt Sangster, Dave Hemphill and Brad Gervais.

Although it was an excellent game, the husbands would take the win in the end. The highest-point team and the lowest-point team would receive prizes.

Once everyone had completed their games, they headed off to the Crossroads Inn for a steak dinner.

Jennifer Hogg hopes to see everyone back next year, with the regular faces and hopefully some new ones, to come out and enjoy the game of curling.

Fifth flight of Ukrainians coming to Saskatchewan

Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison announced that registration is now open for the fifth flight carrying Ukrainians displaced due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

The flight is being arranged in partnership with the humanitarian organizations Solidaire and Open Arms. The flight is expected to arrive on March 27. The final logistics of the flight, including which city it will land in, are still being confirmed.

“Our government is proud of the continued support and generosity from the people of Saskatchewan,” Harrison said.

“We will continue to stand with Ukraine and the 3,200 displaced Ukrainians who now call our province home.”

This fifth flight will complete the current memorandum of understanding (MOU), which was signed on Aug. 12, 2022, by Premier Scott Moe and representatives from Solidaire and Open Arms. The MOU was a pledge by the three parties to partner on a total of five humanitarian flights

aiming to bring more than 1,000 Ukraine citizens from Warsaw to Saskatchewan by March 31, 2023. Upon arriving in the province, passengers will have access to temporary accommodations and a suite of services, support and information related to living in Saskatchewan. With the arrival of this flight, more than 3,300 displaced Ukrainians will have arrived in Saskatchewan since the war began.

The southeast region was digging out from a powerful blizzard that struck on Friday evening and much of Saturday. The storm dumped a considerable amount of snow on the southeast, and coupled with strong winds, many large drifts appeared. The Carlyle Observer was among the buildings in the town buried beneath deep snow, but snow clearing efforts in the community allowed the Observer to be open for business on Monday. Photo by Dolores Young

Lampman and Stoughton Girl Guides have fun in snow

By Stephanie Zoer

March 5 proved to be a great day for the Lampman and Stoughton Girl Guides as they spent the afternoon in the snow.

Danielle Fleury, a Lampman Guide leader, offered her farm for approximately 20 girls to have some fun.

Four leaders each took a group of girls through all the events.

This began around 1 p.m. when the group all went tobogganing.

They also painted in the snow with food colouring, leaving a trail of colour for others to follow.

Another fun game was the push sled. It is similar to a dog’s bobsled,

where one can sit, and another stands behind and pushes with their feet.

All the kids and leaders enjoyed snowshoeing. The kids found this harder than anticipated when the shoes wanted to cross over instead of going straight.

Inside the Quonset, crafts were set up, one of a snowman and another a snowflake. These were taken home by the girls. The crafts continued with the making of a skate and a poker stick that housed a bead to represent a marshmallow.

When the afternoon of fun was coming to an end, a bonfire was started to warm everyone’s toes.

S’mores were made with cookies and hot chocolate to warm the bellies.

The party ended with each club singing a campfire song.

According to Stoughton leader Krystle Zoer, everyone had a blast with lots of giggles and laughs.

Before the Stoughton group went home, Fleury took the girls through her museum on her farm.

The next event to be held in Stoughton by the club is their trefoil tea and bake sale at the Apostolic Church on April 1. Everyone is invited to this event to enjoy baking and Girl Guide cookies, and have the chance to purchase some of the treats.

Saskatchewan to achieve $10 per day child care by 2023

The Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada are pleased to announce that parent fees for regulated child care in the province will be reduced to $10 a day starting April 1, 2023. Saskatchewan is one of the first Canadian provinces to achieve this milestone, which is three years ahead of schedule as outlined in the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement to bring down child care fees to $10 day by 2025-26.

“The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to investing in affordable, inclusive and high-quality child care that provides children with a positive start in life while also giving parents the flexibility and choice to build both a family and ca-

reer,” Education Minister Dustin Duncan said.

Parents whose children are under the age of six and attend regulated child care on a full-time basis can expect to pay $217.50 per month. The fee reductions will result in families saving an average of $395 to $573 per month for each child under six from the average comparable fees as of March 31.

“Today is a major achievement for families in Saskatchewan,” Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Karina Gould said. “By working together, Canada and Saskatchewan have achieved our shared goal of affordable child care three years ahead of schedule. We are continuing to focus on achieving other important targets

through the Canada-wide system, such as space creation and support to early childhood educators, to ensure that every family has access to high-quality, affordable, flexible and inclusive child care.”

This parent fee reduction is the third since the signing of the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement in August 2021. The agreement includes a federal investment of nearly $1.1 billion over five years for regulated early learning and child care programs and services for children under the age of six in Saskatchewan.

A total of 19,790 regulated child care spaces are operational in Saskatchewan across 144 communities as of December 31, 2022. Through the agree-

Winter weights removed from Sask. highways

Truckers are advised to closely monitor their loads when using secondary highways in Saskatchewan.

This is the time of year when truckers must reduce the weight of their loads, since all secondary highways revert back to regulation weights. This prevents damaging important roads in the spring.

“It’s imperative we protect our road network at this time of year by reducing the weights trucks are allowed to carry,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “On different occasions throughout the year, we adjust allowable weights to ensure the efficient movement of goods while protecting our highway infrastructure.”

Winter weights ended effective 12:01 a.m.

Wednesday. Any existing winter weights will be removed and revert back to regulation weight.

Spring road restrictions will begin soon. These

road bans reduce allowable weights on RM roads and secondary weight provincial highways by 10-15 per cent and typically last about six weeks. Road bans typically begin in March and end in late April to early May. The bans only impact secondary weight highways and not primary highways.

Truckers are advised to monitor their loads and

watch for restrictions during this period.

To check which highways are impacted by weight restrictions, please visit truck weight classifications and restrictions at saskatchewan.ca/truckingweights. Commercial truckers and shippers are encouraged to check the status regularly. Information is also available by contacting the Highway Hotline.

ment the governments are also providing funding for free training and education to increase the number of early childhood educators, wage enhancements of up to $5.00 per hour, and a range of grants for regulated child care facilities.

“These subsidies help families like mine because my wife and I both work and we have two kids,” said Sanjay Patel, a Saskatoon parent whose children attend a regulated family child care home said. “I’ll probably be sav-

FORM 2 : TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

(Section 4) The Village of Kisbey

PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN

ing around $500 to $600 a month compared to last year with this most recent reduction in parent fees. This is going to help my family out a lot because we’ll have more money left over for other things our family can use.”

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid beforethe 31st day of May, 2022 an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.

FROM FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2023 TO FRIDAY, APRIL 21, 2023

There will be no Carlyle Observer published on Friday, April 21, 2023

103505011900-01Z101263665 Ext 46143261456$1,278.73$9.61$1,288.34

199505012750-0111O3240127012665

199505012750-0121O3240127012698

199505012750-0171O32401270127722

199505012750-0181O3240127012744$775.85$38.44$814.29

61505007350-013GO3143261311

61505007350-014GO3143261322$1,134.63$19.22$1,153.85 97505011200-01MAG4739 Ext 48143261445$368.16$9.61$377.77

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44505005100-0116DO3154879105

44505005100-0117DO3154879127$1,316.54$19.22$1,335.76 166505018950-01117O3240144390775

Lampman and Stoughton Girl Guides enjoyed an afternoon in the snow at Leader Danielle Fleury’s farm. Photo by Cheryl Lake

Sports

Lampman School mixed curling team brings home the gold

By Stephanie Zoer

Trevor Willock was an immensely proud coach when the Lampman School Grizzlies won the high school mixed curling provincial title in Hanley.

Willock and his wife Dawn took the team to provincials on March 10-11 after the Lampman curlers placed second in the regional qualifier on March 3-4 in Lampman.

Provincials had a round-robin format that began Friday morning.

The first game Lampman played was at 11 a.m. against Meadow Lake. They squeaked past this team with an 8-6 victory.

At 3 p.m. Lampman would take to the ice again, this time facing Moose Jaw. They easily took this game 12-6.

The final round-robin game would be played at 7 p.m. against Tis-

dale. This was a landslide for Lampman, winning 9-2.

Lampman would now head into the semifinal round on Saturday with three wins under their

belts. This game was against Maple Creek and after six ends, Lampman won 9-4, putting them in the final with an undefeated record.

On Saturday evening

at 7 p.m. while 30 friends and family looked on, Lampman would hit the ice one last time for the gold against Hanley. According to Willock this was a back-and-forth

game, but they managed to keep stealing points and taking the lead.

Willock said the kids gave it their all for the provincial gold medal game and it paid off with

them winning 5-3. Team members were Jayden Fleck, Jamie Johnson, Tye Farnsworth, Sydney Willock and Mathias Fornwald.

These kids have been curling since they were around four years old, said Willock, and they are very dedicated to the game.

They showed a lot of heart and sportsmanship in each game they played, he said. They played the best they could, and it showed with them not losing one game.

This is the first time in many years that the provincial gold has come home to Lampman.

“These kids are great role models that love the game of curling,” Willock said.

The Willocks have been involved with curling for several years.

Next year the provincials will be hosted in Lampman.

Cougars drop Game 1 of provincial senior B fi nal

It was a tough weekend for Big Six Hockey League teams in Hockey Saskatchewan provincial play.

In the senior B provincial final, the Carlyle Cougars lost 4-3 to the Wadena Wildcats Sunday night in Carlyle in Game 1 of the best-ofthree series. The contest had to be pushed back a day due to the blizzard that struck southeast Saskatchewan on the weekend.

Game 2 is March 18 in Wadena and Game 3, if necessary, would be the following day, also in Wadena.

The Cougars last won a provincial championship in 1991-92. That roster included goaltender Ferrel Horn, defenceman Tim Lequyer and forward Allan Fleck. Horn now coaches for the Moosomin Rangers. Lequyer and Fleck coach this year’s Cougar team.

Playing on this year’s team are their sons, goaltender Levi Horn, and defencemen Branden Lequyer and Tyler Fleck.

In the senior D prov-

incial final, the Carnduff Red Devils lost 8-3 to the Kyle Elks Sunday in Carnduff in the first matchup in the best-ofthree series. That game also had to be pushed back a day due to the storm.

Game 2 is March 18 in Kyle and Game 3, if

necessary, would be the following day in Kyle.

The Redvers Rockets were eliminated from the senior C south final Friday in a 3-1 loss to the Kenaston Blizzards. Redvers had lost Game 1 6-2 six days earlier.

•••

Meanwhile, the Big

Six final will be a battle of Highway 8 rivals.

The Moosomin Rangers defeated the Bienfait Coalers 7-2 last Wednesday night in Moosomin in the fifth and deciding game of their best-of-five semifinal series. Moosomin will now play Redvers in the final

round. The Rockets defeated the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings in three straight games in their semifinal matchup.

Bienfait had won its previous four games when facing elimination in this year’s playoffs. The Coalers won two straight over the Carnduff Red

Devils with their season on the line in the quarter-finals, and also beat Moosomin twice in mustwin games.

Game 1 will be played March 17 at 8 p.m. in Redvers. Game 2 will be two nights later in Moosomin at 7 p.m. Game 3 is March 24 in Redvers at 8 p.m. and Game 4, if necessary, would be March 26 in Moosomin at 7 p.m.

A date for Game 5 has not been decided.

The Rockets were the top-ranked team in the regular season at 19-1. They have not lost in Big Six action since their first game of the regular season in November. The Rangers, meanwhile, had the third-best record at 16-4.

Each team has won one Big Six title. Redvers’ championship came in 2018. The Rockets have been a powerhouse in recent years though, including last season when they lost in the final to the Carnduff Red Devils.

Moosomin’s title came in 2004. The Rangers largely played in the Triangle League, and rejoined the Big Six for the 2021-22 season.

From left, Lampman School mixed curling provincial champions are, from left, Trevor Willock, Jayden Fleck, Jamie Johnson, Tye Farnsworth, Sydney Willock and Mathias Fornwald. Photo by Dawn Willock

Ferrel Horn, Levi Horn, Tim Lequyer, Branden Lequeyer, Tyler Fleck and Allan Fleck at the Carlyle Cougars provincial game on Sunday. Photo by Gord Paulley

Carlyle and Redvers meet in U18 play

The Redvers Rockets and Carlyle Cougars have been playing in the Moose Mountain Minor Hockey League’s U18 semifinal. On March 9, Redvers defeated the Cougars 6-5 in overtime. On March 13, the Cougars knotted this best-of-three series with a 7-5 home-ice victory. Carlyle fought back from a 4-1 deficit late in the second period. Game 3 was scheduled for Carlyle on March 15. (Results were not available at press time). The winner is to play Radville in the league final. Photo by Gord Paulley

Arcola youth curling program marks 10 years

By Stephanie Zoer

After having to postpone the Arcola Youth Bonspiel a day due to the blizzard that hit southeast Saskatchewan, the event was able to proceed at the Arcola Curling Rink.

The Arcola Youth curling program began in 2013 when Shelley Harkness was looking for a program for her two daughters Jami and Madi to enjoy. This is when the club began with eight girls aged eight to 12.

Ten years later, Harkness is still involved, and her daughters are still curling, but this season they have 18 youths in curling.

The bonspiel had nine teams entered.

Games began at 9 a.m. and carried on all day, with the kids receiving a gift bag near the end.

Lunch was offered of homemade soups and sausage on a bun. Many spectators came to watch the kids, while others took the time to socialize.

Each youth team was given the opportunity to play a few fun games and they were given a few pointers by long-time curler Dwain Davis.

Davis was also presented with a gift which was made by Harkness. A quilt with photographs of the kids when they

were young curlers. It is now hanging on the wall in the rink.

Throughout the year, they hold fundraisers such as raffle draws, bottle drives, luncheons and selling burgers at the Arcola Co-op.

Mike Devins Oilfield Consulting sponsored club jackets for everyone, and Andrea McEwan supplied all the curling equipment and also helped coach.

The Arcola Optimist Club helped support the youth program, while other curlers stepped up to help teach the youth.

The youths have attended the Scotties

Tournament of Hearts in 2015 when it was held in Moose Jaw.

They were the Southeast District Athletic Association Playdown Junior champions in 2018, with team members Jami and Madi Harkness and Jenna and Kiara Bates.

Davis, who was the organizer of the youth bonspiel and has been involved with curling for many years, is very thankful for all the people and businesses that have supported the youth program. He feels that it is their support that has made this program what it is today.

Dwain Davis presents Shelley Harkness with a gift for 10 years of dedication to the Arcola youth curling program.

Photo by Stephanie Zoer

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

MICHAEL REY 306-901-7440

LAURIE REY 306-901-7000

Call, text or email mrey@sasktel.net

COMING EVENTS

Friday, March 17 - Put on your green and come out to a delicious stew supper at the United Church from 5 - 7 p.m. Served with mashed potatoes, salad, pickles and a variety of desserts, come out and visit with friends and neighbours. If you are unable to come out, call the Church office at 453-6136, leave a message, and pick-up or delivery can be arranged. We look forward to seeing you there.

61st DRAGGINS CAR SHOW - April 7 and 8 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon. Check out the “Battle of the Automotive Technicians”!. Draggins Rod & Custom Car Club. Visit our website; Draggins.com. Looking for Vendors! Fort Qu’Appelle Spring Trade Show, April 22nd and 23rd, 2023. Please contact Tammy at 306-728-5690 or accounts@grasslandsnews.ca for more information. Or you can download the brochure at www.forttradeshow.com

AD DEADLINES

AD DEADLINES 3:00

PLACING AN AD AD RATES

*All classified ads must be prepaid by cash, cheque or VISA/MC.*

FOR SALE

FOR SALE BY TENDER WEST CENTRAL PELLETING LTD IS ACCEPTING BIDS FOR THE FOLLOWING:

4 QUARTERS of LAND FOR SALE by Owner R.M. #76 NE 10-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $98,780 SE 15-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $101,475 NE 14-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $113,090 NW 14-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $89,320

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS

PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX

ONLINE AUCTION FOR THE SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

CROWN LAND SALE ONLINE BIDDING ENDS OVER TWO CLOSING DATES TUESDAY, MARCH 21 & THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2023

The spring 2023 sale consists of 56 parcels of land, or 7,329 acres split into 40 lots. Land parcels located in RM #001 through #350 will be scheduled to close on March 21. Parcels located in the RM #351 and higher will be scheduled to close on March 23 online auction.

Contact Our Real Estate Department

To Request Your Sale

Catalogue

Visit Our Website For Photos & Details. www.mcdougallbay.com

Real Estate

306-271-1505

Over 90,000 Bidders Worldwide

McDougal Auctioneers Ltd.

Provincial License Number 319916

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

REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp this winter with possibility of year round. Winter location:

Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food and handling ticket.

Send resume and work references to:

Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc.

Fax: 306-769-8844

brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www.

brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Rooms available at Sunrise Villa, Maryfield, SK

Sunrise Villa caters to the needs of senior citizens who wish to remain independent within a small community atmosphere. The collective living environment combines individual privacy with the opportunity to participate in group social activities. The senior’s home maintains a “home like” atmosphere while providing the security of 24 hour staff. If interested or would like further information, please contact 306-646-4988 or email to svilla@sasktel.net for further information.

1998 TEREX TB85 SELF PROPELLED MANLIFT Located at 100 Bruce Saunders Way, Wolseley, SK. Unit will be sold as is where is. Successful bidder will be responsible for all costs and arrangements for the removal from property.

Highest or any accepted CLOSING DATE FOR BIDS IS: MARCH 31, 2023

Bids can be submitted to danwcp@sasktel. net

For more info contact Dan at 306-918-7908

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www. swna.com.

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306649-1405 to find out how!

MORE ROLHEISER BOOKS

Ken Rolheiser releases SEVENTH book MORE LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE PENCIL OF A LOVING GOD. Amazon - paperback and kindle. See https://www.amazon.com/author/krolhie1005

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS.

51 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649-1405 or visit www.swna. com for details.

YARDSITE ON HOME 1/4 NE 14-07-10 Consists of house, quanset, corrals, garage & bins

“ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY HIP/KNEE Replacement?

Contact Ritchie Pilgrim 306-620-9831 or pilgrimritchie @gmail.com

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

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

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING?

The Disability Tax

Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $30,000 Lump sum refund

Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide!

Providing assistance during Covid.

Expert Help: 1-844-453-5372

Annual firearms amnesty program starts March 20

By Ryan Kiedrowski, SASKTODAY.ca

In the spirit of a “proactive approach to the issue of gun violence”, the Firearm Amnesty Program will launch next week.

Sponsored by the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police (SACP) and working in conjunction with municipal police services across the province, the RCMP and Ministry of Environment, the program seeks to reduce the number of guns that are not being used and could possibly be stolen.

“The SACP Fire-

arm Amnesty does not wish to have an adverse effect on responsible firearms owners,” said the SACP in a media release. “Instead, the SACP Firearm Amnesty is designed to lower the risk of violent offences involving firearms by safely collecting and disposing of unwanted firearms that may, otherwise fall into the hands of criminals through break and enters or accidental loss.”

The amnesty also includes replica and imitation firearms, any unwanted ammunition and even parts of firearms.

“The SACP Firearm Amnesty recognizes that our province has a long history

and tradition of hunting, agricultural production and recreational marks-

manship,” SACP said. “Firearms are a necessary tool in these vocations and pursuits.”

The majority of gun owners across Saskatchewan utilize these tools in a safe and responsible manner, but the aim of the program is to reduce the number of unwanted or unused firearms in general.

The amnesty program runs from March 20-April 9, and people interested in surrendering unwanted firearms are encouraged to contact their local police service instead of transporting the items to a detachment.

“By pre-arrangement, police officers or conservation officers will attend to pick up unwanted firearms from the homes of residents who wish to surrender them,” SACP explained. “During the period of the SACP Firearm Amnesty, police will not pursue any charges in relation to the unauthorized possession of firearms surrendered as part of this initiative.” Those firearms handed over will be checked to determine if they are involved in any investigations, and then destroyed afterwards.

Government quadruples incentive for physicians

The provincial government has announced that starting April 1, it will be offering an enhanced Rural Physician Incentive Program (RPIP) to help attract and retain more family physicians to rural and northern communities across Saskatchewan.

The total incentive is now up to $200,000 over five years, more than four

times the amount that was previously offered.

“Saskatchewan is once again leading the nation with ambitious solutions to addressing the health human resource challenges that Saskatchewan, Canada, and the rest of the world are facing,” Premier Scott Moe said, who announced the enhanced incentive at the anual Convention and Trade

Show for the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.

“Our government recognizes the challenge of attracting doctors to rural and remote areas of the province, and this increased incentive will enhance our ability to attract more rural physicians and meet that challenge.”

The $47,000 total incentive that was previous-

ly offered is increasing to $200,000 to help attract more family physicians to rural and northern communities across Saskatchewan.

To incentivize retention, the length of the program is increasing from four years to five years. Eligibility for the incentive is also expanding beyond new graduates and will now include

Carlyle and District

Please join us on Tuesday, March 28th @ 6:30 PM at the Carlyle Community Hall!

We plan to:

1. Elect our executive

2. Set our priorities and our workplan

3. Build our membership!

with Council, staff and ratepayers;

*Proof of a valid driver’s license and a driver’s abstract must be provided

*Being mechanically inclined and knowledge of machinery maintenance is also a definite asset.

Please submit written resume by 4:30 pm on Thursday, April 13th, 2023 stating experience, work references and wage expectations to:

R.M. of Antler No. 61- Attention: Administrator, Jocelyne Toms-Delmaire P.O. Box 70 Redvers, Saskatchewan S0C 2H0 Fax: (306) 452-3518 Email: rm61@sasktel.net

For further information please contact the R.M. Office: (306) 452-3263

We would love to see you there! All businesses, home-based, rural, main street, start up or established are welcome!!

physicians practicing in rural and northern communities who have been assessed through the Saskatchewan International Physician Practice Assessment Program (SIPPA).

“The enhanced incentive of up to $200,000 over five years will help attract more family physicians to rural and northern communities across Saskatchewan,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Everett Hindley

said. “Family physicians play an important role in rural and northern communities because they also support emergency departments, acute care beds, and other important services provided by local health care facilities.”

The Rural Physician Incentive Program first launched in 2013-14 to incentivize recent graduates to take up practice in rural and northern communities across the province.

VILLAGE OF GLEN EWEN ASSESSMENT ROLL 2023

Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the Village of Glen Ewen for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open

March 28th th potential appeal may contact the assessor at the Village of Glen

Myrna-Jean Babbings Assessor

Worship Hours at the Church of Your Choice of

Carlyle

United Church

202-2nd St. W.

Sunday Services: 10:00 a.m.

CLOSED JULY & AUGUST ***

Ph: 306-453-6136

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

Arcola-Kisbey

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

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

Free Methodist Church Hwy 48 • Wawota

Worship - 11:00 a.m.

Pastors Kevin & Bev Kay

Church: 306-739-2313

Roman Catholic Oxbow/Cantal/ Carnduff

Rev. Father Vince Borre Oxbow

St. Joseph’s - 9:00 a.m. Cantal St. Raphael’s Sunday - 10:45 a.m Carnduff St. Jude - 12:30 p.m.

Rev. Father Vince Borre

The annual Firearm Amnesty Program runs from March 20-April 9. Image courtesy of the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police

Government and NDP clash over private MRIs

By John Cairns of SASKTODAY.CA

An exchange in the Saskatchewan legislature Monday came on the heels of news last week that the federal government was clawing back almost $750,000 in transfers to Saskatchewan over the province’s use of the private MRIs.

Saskatchewan was among eight provinces that saw their transfers cut back by a grand total of $82 million over the use of private clinics to charge for medically necessary diagnostic services.

A livid NDP opposition issued a news release Monday calling for the ”government of Saskatchewan to immediately halt its disastrous American-style MRI experiment.” Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Carla Beck grilled the government on the issue in question period. The exchange was recorded in Hansard.

“Simple question to the Premier: will he scrap his failed American-style, private-pay health care scheme?”

Instead of Premier Scott Moe responding, it was Minister of Health Paul Merriman who responded.

“The short answer is no,” said Merriman. “We won’t be changing this policy because it’s done 15,000 scans that have been paid for by Sas-

katchewan people, which equals 30,000 scans that have actually been done for our province. This speeds up the process for surgeries, Mr. Speaker.

“The federal government should not have done this. They are taking tools off the table, Mr. Speaker, for us to be able to address the pressures.”

Beck pointed out that since the government passed its private-pay MRI bill in 2015, “average wait times for MRIs in this province have gone up 63 per cent, Mr. Speaker, 63 per cent. And those numbers, those numbers are directly from that government’s website.

“The question: how much longer will Saskatchewan people need to wait to access care before that Premier recognizes that his payingout-of-pocket scheme for health care was a mistake?

“You know what, Mr. Speaker?” a fired-up Merriman responded. “I’ll tell the House and I’ll tell the opposition: this side of the House, we’re going to focus on delivering health care, not ideology that’s outdated, Mr. Speaker.

“… We believe that health care delivery is extremely important. And we’re not stuck in the ideology of the NDP, Mr. Speaker. We take our direction from the people of Saskatchewan

who had the privilege of putting us in here, Mr. Speaker, certainly not from Justin Trudeau.”

Opposition health critic Vicki Mowat then stood and accused Minister Merriman of “utter nonsense”.

“The Sask Party government is breaking the Canada Health Act. They knew this was going to happen… Will the minister admit that this tired and out-of-touch Sask Party government’s choices are breaking the law and that they’re the ones who are to blame for this clawback of federal funding?”

“Mr. Speaker, they act like we’re the only ones in Canada doing this. The NDP government in BC is doing this,” Merriman replied. “The province of Quebec is doing this. The province of Ontario is doing this. The province of Alberta is doing this.”

“Again, Mr. Speaker, there have been two elections, two elections for the people of Saskatchewan to stand up and ask about this. And they have spoken. They have put us back into government based on the policies in our health care system, Mr. Speaker, to be able to do exactly what we are doing.”

Mowat pressed on with her criticism of MRI wait times.

“How much worse do the wait times need to get before this tired and

out-of-touch Sask Party government will scrap their failed experiment?”

Merriman responded that the private two-forone MRI system “started under the NDP government. This was done for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, done for Workers’ Compensation. It seemed to be fine when they were in government, Mr. Speaker.”

“What I’ll ask the member opposite is, is she going to stand on her feet today and ask for the cancellation, since 2016, of 30,000 scans that we’ve been able to do in this province, Mr. Speaker? Are they going to stand up and say we should cancel all of these scans?”

Later, Merriman accused Opposition Leader Beck of having campaigned for the NDP leadership on a pledge to cancel private surgeries.

“Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition knows exactly well that she campaigned on cancelling all of the private surgeries, Mr. Speaker. If she doesn’t, then I’d like her to stand up and correct the record. Because we’re going to advance as many dollars as we can into the publicly funded system to deliver

those scans or those surgeries either in a private clinic or in our hospital systems.”

In speaking to reporters after question period, Mowat did not let up on her criticism of the private MRI regime, pointing to wait times steadily tracking upward.

“It’s a failed experiment,” said Mowat. “It’s time to scrap that experiment and to look at what other solutions we can and should be taking to make sure that people have access to the diagnostics they need when they need them.”

When asked about the government seemingly committed to keeping the two for one system, Mowat called it “bull-headedly doubling down on a system that doesn’t work, it makes absolutely no sense.”

She pointed to B.C., which bought out the private MRI system there and worked around the clock to expand the public system in an effort to get wait times down.

“When you’re digging a hole, you don’t just keep digging. You have to look around, re-evaluate the situation and say how are we going to get people access to the scans they need.”

Not only did Merriman indicate he was not going to back down, he confirmed to reporters the province was looking at actually expanding.

“We’ve already procured an extra 3,000 scans alone to help deal with the backlog of scans and surgeries, primarily due to the pandemic when we had to slow things down,” said Merriman.

“But we’re going full steam ahead with this. We think it’s a great benefit to the people of Saskatchewan like I outlined in the House. Almost 30,000 scans have been done, when the patient paying for one that creates an extra one within the public system, and we’re getting that two for one… we’re very proud of it, and it’s helped out in the past and it will continue to help us.”

As for pposition claims that the wait times were proof the private MRIs were a failure, Merriman responded that what the opposition wasn’t taking into account is “that the province is actually growing as well. We have more people in the province during those years, so there’s going to be more scans.”

Congratulations to the Wawota Parkland School senior girls’ curling rink, who advanced to the provincial playdowns in Langham.

Members of the team were Emma Bunz, Sydney Dorrance, Rachel Wilson, Kaylee Mudrewich and Olivia Makelki. Coaches were Duane Lamontagne

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and Brayden Stewart. They had a respectable 1-2 record.

Christian and Nadja Schleinger, Levin and Aiden travelled to Switzerland to visit with family and friends. They spent two weeks there. It was a most enjoyable trip as it has been almost four years since their last journey.

Ross and Donna Petterson have returned home

after spending the month of February at Shawinigan Lake, B.C. Although the weather wasn’t great, they enjoyed associating with Alex and Maureen McIsaac, who were at Qualicum Beach. They also visited with Kevan and Hyacinth Sears. (Kevan is a former pastor at the Wawota Free Methodist Church).

Shannon Houff and her

The Bargain Shop on Main Street in Carlyle had plenty of snow in front of it following the blizzard that struck the town on Friday and Saturday. While the storm brought plenty of snow and high winds, the hard work of crews ensured the snow was cleared before too long.

Photo by Gord Paulley

mother Francis Tulik enjoyed a holiday to Yuma, Ariz.

Deb Saville also spent some in Yuma. She also spent some time visiting with Harold and Jane Laich.

Sympathy to Gisele Holloway and family on the passing of her nephew, Ryan Revet of Brandon. He died on March 8 at the age 19. He leaves

his parents Gerard and Angela Revet and brother Adam. His funeral service was held on March 14.

The World Day of Prayer was celebrated at the Wawota United Church on March 5. The prayers and program were prepared by the women of Taiwan. I especially enjoyed it as we have family from there.

March 12 was a busy time in Wawota. There was

Southeast organizations receive gaming grants

The provincial government is providing approximately $1.5 million to groups and organizations that raise money through charitable gaming activities.

“The work of our friends and neighbours displays that the spirit of volunteerism is strong in Saskatchewan,” said Lori Carr, the

minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority.

“Our government is pleased to continue to support the volunteers and charities that make a difference in the communities we love.”

Receiving support were: the Town of Carlyle and RM of Moose Mountain 63 Fire

and Rescue, $1,262.50; the Carlyle District Lions Club Inc., $122.63; the Cornerstone Family and Youth Centre Inc., $699; Look Good Feel Better in Arcola for the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, $550; the Carnduff Gym Club Inc., $440; the Oxbow Prairie Horizons School, $28.13; the Redvers and

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District Recreation Board, $178.88; the Redvers Activity Centre Foundation Inc., $294.38; the Royal Canadian Legion branch in Stoughton, $484.83; the Stoughton Early Learning Facility, $1,256.35; the Wawota Deer View Lodge Resident Council, $62.50; the Wawota Community Forum Committee, $3,935.63; and the Wawota Recreation Board, $239.35.

Fundraising for a couple of minor hockey teams in Estevan was listed for other communities. The Estevan Apex U18 AA Bruins’ $521.25 was under Carnduff and the Estevan TS&M U15 AA Bruins’ $326.25 was listed for Gainsborough.

The charitable gaming grant program provides a grant equal to 25 per cent of the net revenues raised through charitable gam-

a hockey game in the afternoon and the ice carnival Color My World was presented by the local skaters who got to show off their talents in the evening.

The Wawota United Church’s Time and Talent was also held in the evening. It included a beef supper and a live and silent auction. An online auction ended at noon on Sunday.

ing activities, including licensed Bingos, raffles, breakopen tickets, Texas hold’em poker and Monte Carlo events. Groups that conduct licensed charitable gaming activities and events do not have to apply for the charitable gaming grant.

Charitable gaming reports submitted by the groups are used by SLGA to calculate grants and are paid out each quarter.

By Myrna Olson