The Observer August 18, 2023

the

Something for Everyone

Carlyle District Lions Club celebrating 60 years

By Stephanie Zoer

Lions Park in Carlyle will come alive on Sept. 9 and 10 when the 60th anniversary celebrations for the Carlyle District Lions Club will take place.

An invitation has been sent out to all past and present members and also to the families of those members that have passed away.

On Nov. 29, 1963, the Carlyle District Lions were born through the sponsorship of the Oxbow Lions.

This club had its highest membership in 1978 with 44 members and its lowest was in 2001 with 28, but today they have 32 active members.

Craig Savill is one of the chairmen and is the vice-president of the Lions.

Savill is very passionate about the club and excited about the big event coming up.

He has been in Regina, helping another Lions club with the Canada Cup baseball tournament when they were short on volunteers.

“This is what we do,” said Savill. “We help each other.”

Attending the 60th anniversary will be Lane Johnson, the Lions’ district governor from Climax, as well as Carlyle’s Heather Veermeersh, the first vice-district governor, and Paige Newton, the second vice-district governor from Cabri.

Carlyle Mayor Jen Sedor, RM of Moose Mountain Reeve Kelly Brimner and Cannington MLA Daryl Harrison also plan to attend.

Savill hopes that this weekend will bring lasting memories to those who attend and a chance to reminisce about the past.

Holding it at the park will

give the Lions the opportunity to showcase the park and all their hard work.

The tickets are on sale for $25 for the weekend and free camping will be available for the event. With 200 tickets they hope to sell out.

On Sept. 9, beginning at 4 p.m., will be entertainment, supper and a full program to follow. The following morning will have a pancake breakfast and an interdenominational service.

An alternate location has been planned in case of inclement weather.

For the past 25 years, the Lions have held a spring supper and auction as one of their fundraisers. This event has always done well and will continue as an annual spring event.

Another large project is the Lions Pride Estates. A committee was formed in 1999, and today they continue to have a waiting list of people.

It is for seniors and is a lease option, which means pay a monthly fee to cover the mortgage, taxes and condo fees, but in the end, they will get their investment back, minus an administration fee.

The Lions park has seen a lot of upgrades over the years with the playground equipment, ball diamonds, and a large gazebo. Close by is the pool for everyone to enjoy.

Their meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month and new members are always welcome to join, with a small fee.

Lions International is the largest worldwide service club organization, with more than 1.4 million members in over 200 countries.

A large part of the club is the Lions Foundation of Guide Dogs.

These dogs are bred and raised in Oakville, Ont., and receive extensive training.

They have had 1,018 active client-dog guide teams with 85 dogs in training in 2022.

Last year they had 236 puppies and 1,422 vet visits. They have 215 foster families to help raise future dog guides.

A new facility is in the works for 2025 to help more people receive these important animals, to help them cope with issues in their lives.

The Carlyle District Lions are very proud of their accomplishments in the past 60 years. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

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August

Sat, August 19 - Carlyle Fun Dayz

Your first stop to find events happening in our community!

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

Sun, August 20 - Red Market Barn - Entertainment: Aaren James

Fri, August 25 - Arcola Rodeo

September

Fri - Sun, September 8 to 10 - Wildhogs Bike Rally - Arcola Prairie Place

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.

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Former Oxbow grad has written 11 children’s books

By Stephanie Zoer

Ashely Vercammen

graduated from Oxbow Prairie Horizon School while living in Alida with her mom Tracy Paxman.

She was born in Redvers and lived there a short time, and then moved to Manor. Her dad Dan Vercammen and grandparents Harry and Dini Vercammen still reside in the area, along with her mom’s parents Johan and Bea Paxman.

They eventually moved to Alida, where she remained until she graduated from school.

In 2013 Vercammen moved to Saskatoon to attend university to get her bachelor’s degree in international studies and a minor in economics. This would take her four years to complete.

Once her degree was

completed, she also received her certificate for teaching English to speakers of other languages and her registered behavioural technician (RBT) certificate.

Vercammen taught English as a second language to children in China. She found herself often telling them about the difference in culture between Canada and America but would specifically talk about Saskatchewan culture.

It was at this time she began to write books about her experiences, to start conversations about diverse topics such as family status, disabilities and applied behavioural analysis.

At present, she only writes children’s books and since January 2022 has published 11 books.

She not only writes her own books but helps other

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authors to publish theirs, which she has done with four other writers.

Vercammen continues to help others to publish their ideas and bring them to life.

Attending the Red Market Barn on Aug. 13 with all her books, she has her latest book called Where Could My Baby Be, also on display.

Vercammen and her husband Micael Lessmeister are on a waiting list to adopt a baby, and this is where her idea came from for the book. Her next scheduled event is at the CM Book Fair in Saskatoon, which she co-hosts.

She is very passionate about her job as an RBT at Saskatchewan Behav-

ioour Consulting in Saskatoon, where she works with children with different gaps and deficits in their behaviours and helps them fill the gap.

It helps children with self-care tasks, communication, school readiness and compliance to name a few.

Vercammen started her first novel about

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her experiences in life. She feels she is still too young to call it her memoirs, as she still has so much more to experience. She enjoys spending time with her husband while relaxing at home with their pets. She still feels like a small town girl at heart, who lives in a city.

Daryl Harrison Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cannington Constituency 1-833-670-4400 CanningtonConstituenc y@sasktel.net #220 Centre St. / P.O. Box 130 / Alida, SK. / S0C 0B0 CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE

Ashley Vercammen, a former southeast resident, set up her books at the Red Market Barn on Aug. 13. Photo by Dolores Young

Great crowd enjoyed great music at Bow Valley Jamboree

By Carole Stewart

The annual Bow Valley Jamboree, held Saturday at the Bow Valley Park south of Oxbow, was once again an overwhelming success, according to one of the event directors Carole Stewart.

With upwards of 800 attendees, the park was full and the energy was high. Music of all genres was highlighted, with eight different acts hitting the stage. From classic rock to pipes, folk, rockabilly and country, there was something for all ages.

With a surprise rain shower hitting the park just after 7 p.m., most of the crowd was forced to take shelter under the many tents in the park or find refuge in their vehicles. But this didn’t stop Munro & Patrick and Soul Sensations from putting on a great show that kept many dancing in the rain outdoors.

After the brief rainstorm, most patrons returned to enjoy the rest of the evening of great music, featuring two more acts, the New Montagues and Karissa Hoffort.

Prior to the rain falling, the jamboree featured the talents of Kilted Wind, Dusty Rain, Winsome Kind, Jake Vaadeland and the Sturgeon River Boys, and JJ Voss.

All of the acts were from Saskatchewan, with some having local connections. Many of the acts have received awards at different levels for their talents.

Surrounding the pa-

trons at the festival were a variety of food options ranging from a beef dinner supplied by the Oxbow Lions Club, the Southeast Shrine Club’s burgers and hotdogs, Reach Café beverages, Filipino food and the Get In My Belly food truck, featuring tacos, smoked beef and more.

Get in My Belly, a southeast food vendor, remained open until the

event closed this year, providing warm food to those staying for the entire day.

An array of artisans displaying their talents were also featuring their creative pieces ranging from artwork, pottery and stickers and jewelry, to delicious breads and sweet treats. The festival also saw a display of local artwork, highlighting the talent of Oxbow and the area.

One artisan, Kristyn Mayer, had a surprise visit from a recently-engaged couple wanting a set of temporary engagement rings made to honour their special commitment.

“What a beautiful moment and highlight of the day,” Stewart said.

For the children attending, the bouncy castle and children’s activities are always a lot of fun. New to the festival this year was a rockclimbing wall.

A selfie wall, another new feature at the event, was a big hit. Attendees were encouraged to use the props to take pictures to post to their social media accounts, with a chance to win two tickets to next year’s jamboree.

The Southeast Shriners were again in attendance to provide their people mover to ensure that the festival was accessible to all.

The event is a big undertaking put on by the local Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee, consisting of 10 members. Luckily, they receive

overwhelming support from their community in the way of volunteers.

“Because the event is expensive to host, it doesn’t bring in much revenue. It is the committee’s hope to bring in enough revenue each year to cover their costs in order to host again the following year,” Stewart said. “From the overwhelming success and many positive comments received, the committee looks forward to hosting the next Bow Valley Jamboree on August 10, 2024.”

For the first time, the Town of Oxbow held events in advance of the

jamboree to try to attract people for the weekend.

The first was a family pool party Friday at the Oxbow Swimming Pool. Supper was served and then Winsome Kind started performing. Admission was by donation, with proceeds going back into the pool.

People from all ages attended.

Then the following morning, prior to the jamboree beginning, there was a show and shine on Main Street, with a variety of classic vehicles on display. A charity barbecue was held for the town cemetery’s gazebo.

Kilted Wind entertained at the Bow Valley Jamboree.

Scott and Leora Joy Perrie, the Winsome Kind duo, performed at the Bow Valley Jamboree’s 2023 edition. Photo courtesy of Scott and Leora Joy Perrie

Committee members Tara Brock and Trina Mayer helped organize the 2023 Bow Valley Jamboree. Photo courtesy of Trina Mayer

Views

We’re not going anywhere, despite what your news feed says

David Willberg Willberg’s World

I came home on Saskatchewan Day after covering an event, and started working on a couple of online articles.

I quickly checked the Observer’s Facebook page and saw a message “No posts to show” where normally our Facebook posts would appear.

On my personal Facebook account, where news articles would appear, the message has been “This content isn’t available in Canada”. Click on it, and you’ll get taken to a Facebook link that shows all sorts of propaganda on why the article can’t be viewed any longer.

Once I saw the “no posts to show” message, I knew what it meant. Facebook had randomly selected me to be among those who can’t view news from Canadian sources. There were others who could still view our articles at the time, but I couldn’t.

I’m not the first to lose access to Canadian news content. I wasn’t the last. I can still view sports articles from TSN and Sportsnet, but not news. Whether it’s a smalltown outlet like the Carlyle Observer, or a big-city publication like Vancouver is Awesome, or our provincial news hub, SaskToday.ca, there are no posts to show.

And it seems like the vast majority of us are in the same boat. If you want to find news through Meta’s Facebook or Instagram platforms, you’re out of luck.

Eventually you won’t be able to see Canadian news through Google searches, either.

These platforms have reacted negatively to the federal government’s Online News Act, which calls for tech companies to pay news outlets for their content that appears on their platforms. Rather than comply or negotiate, these big U.S. companies have decided to turn out the lights on Canadian news providers.

Here at the Observer, we’ve taken pride in our social media presence through Facebook. We have approximately 3,000 followers – impressive numbers for a market of this size.

What troubles me about losing Facebook is the public safety factor. If there’s a missing person, an increased police presence, a highway closure or a storm, then we often stop what we’re doing, post it online and reach people immediately. Now that missing person report won’t get to as many people as quickly.

Yes, it’s great we’ve been able to share human interest stories, event articles and photo albums. But the most important thing that we can post and share is a missing person report.

The loss of legitimate Canadian news is also going to favour the false news sites that prey upon those who will believe anything that fits their worldview.

So what can you do? You’ll still be able to find our stories on X (formerly known as Twitter), but we recognize that it has become a diminishing return in the social media world, and its decline has been accelerated ever since Elon Musk became its owner.

It means visiting www.sasktoday.ca will be more important than ever. Or go directly to the Observer’s section at www.sasktoday.ca/south/carlyle-observer for a local emphasis, although then you’ll miss out on all of the great articles from across the province that can be found on SaskToday.

I’m not sure how long this is going to last. Australia went through a similar situation a few years ago. It lasted two weeks. I’d like to think that this have a similar outcome, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that’s likely wishful thinking.

The news existed before Facebook. Online news existed before Google. This will serve as a reminder of how over-dependent we are on certain platforms.

But we’re not going anywhere, even if it’s not as simple to find us as it used to be.

Giving what costs us nothing

But before she could get the surgery she required, my mom was in need of blood transfusions.

Watching a bag of blood get hung and start running through an IV line is a sobering image. It’s one many of you might be familiar with but it was new for me. As I watched the blood begin flowing I had trouble swallowing past the lump in my throat.

It’s something I haven’t done in a long time.

Not because I didn’t think it important, but because I just never made the time to do so, even knowing fully how much it matters.

I don’t recall the last time I donated blood. A mobile clinic was here in Outlook quite some time ago but I don’t remember exactly when. Prior to that I gave when I was a university student at a clinic set up on campus.

In the years since those visits, I didn’t make the effort to go and give. But that changed last weekend when my family was in need and I faced the reality that while I hadn’t been giving, others had. Because of them we are celebrating life.

Earlier this summer, my husband required unexpected major surgery. He is recovering well and getting stronger every day. But as he was getting back on his feet, we faced another health challenge, this time with my mom.

Back to the same hospital, the same ER, the same surgical floor and many of the same nurses.

Someone, someone we don’t know, took the time, somewhere, and provided this very blood that was now making the difference for my mom.

How can you properly say thank you? How can you possibly express your gratitude when there isn’t someone available to hear the words? To see the tears threaten to spill down your cheeks? To share in the moment that you as a family are experiencing?

The answer came quickly. I resolved to become a blood donor as soon as possible.

I am not someone who deals well with medical procedures. I have to leave the room or turn away when new IVs are started, incisions inspected, or tubes removed. There’s a reason I could never enter any career related to health care.

So it was with a bit of nerves that I entered the premises of Canadian Blood Services in Saskatoon, but my worries were for naught. Each step of the process went smoothly, and I was taken care of so well by the kind and professional staff

Since it had been so long since I last donated, there were no records to draw on, so I was treated as a first-time donor. A little sticker on my shirt let everyone know. At a couple of different points, I was asked what brought me in that day to donate. I told them about my mom, and then silently reprimanded myself for waiting until my family was in need to bring me in.

Why did it take this medical emergency to get me in the doors and roll up my sleeve?

But the only guilt trip being laid was my own. The people I told my story to thanked me for sharing. They need to hear those stories, they said. And they sent their best wishes to my mom.

Less than an hour later, I was on my way. I’d given, literally, the gift of life. It is not an exaggeration. Every few seconds someone somewhere needs blood and unless we have people willing to donate, the needs will outpace the supply.

Consider this: eight donors every week are needed to help one person with leukemia. Then think about serious injuries from car accidents and natural disasters, those requiring blood during surgery, and the need that comes with any number of diseases and disorders.

According to Canadian Blood Services, a small group of regular donors currently meets the needs of the entire country, but

this is unsustainable. One in two Canadians is eligible to donate but only one in 81 does. Less than two per cent of our neighbours are giving what we hope we will never require, but are incredibly grateful it is there when the need hits close to home.

Currently thousands of open appointments need to be filled so that the supply in Canada will be there when called upon. Not everyone can donate, but if you can please consider it. I never could have imagined a scenario in which my family would be anxiously awaiting a bag of blood to begin doing its lifesaving work. But we did. I am sure many of you have, too.

It’s hard to put into words how meaningful it truly is. Watching pure gold drip through diamond encrusted tubes could never be as precious.

Many times this summer, I have had people ask what they can do for us. People want to help.

To do something tangible to demonstrate their care and concern. I haven’t known quite how to respond to these offers, but I do now.

If you are eligible, consider donating blood. It costs you nothing but your time. You even get to put your feet up when you go in and give. Now that’s truly a win-win. To everyone who has ever donated, thank you. We are a family that is most grateful. That’s my outlook.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

- Nelson Mandela

Shelley Luedtke

Cabin Fever Art Festival reveals heritage plaque

By Stephanie Zoer

The Kenosee Lake beach came alive by the chalet on Aug. 12 when artists displayed their work across the grassy slope by the water.

It marked a special day as Jennifer Johnson, the assistant deputy minister, parks division, and Kim Brown, the manager for Moose Mountain Provincial Park, unveiled the heritage plaque by the chalet.

“Events like this help us to appreciate the unique stories and places that make up the history of our province,” said Brown.

Brown went on to say the government recognizes the important role heritage plays in the quality of life and in provincial pride.

Johnston read a quote about heritage: “Love your monuments; they are part of a rich civilization and speak volumes about a bygone era.”

This gave the chalet and the Artist Colony official recognition as a provincial historical site.

The plaque is located on the north side of the walking path, erected on a steel post for all visitors to see and read.

Completed in 1932 as a Great Depression relief project, the chalet and cabins served as accommodations for park visitors.

The building was designed by provincial architect Harold Dawson. It was among the first buildings constructed in Saskatchewan’s newly-established provincial parks.

To give the building a rustic look they used fieldstone, stucco and half timbers to give it characteristics that were popular in North America during the early 20th century.

The chalet overlooks the lake, giving it majestic views while nestled among mature aspen trees.

Today, the chalet still stands proud on a slight hill, with its manicured grass and neatly-placed flowers.

Over the years the cabins have been restored and offered free of charge to the artists.

The Cabin Fever event is a coming together of the past and present and a great way to celebrate the continued use of the cabins.

The artists had their items displayed from 1-5 p.m. and during this time, it gave the nearly 1,000 visitors a chance to purchase one of their favourite pieces.

Artists from near and far have taken advantage of the cabins during the past years, and several new artists were present in the hopes to be in a cabin in the near future.

Refreshments were served at the Kenosee Inn, with a side of art on display from 1-7 p.m.

Activities were held for the kids on the lawn by the chalet as well, with paint, bubbles and so much more. There were opportunities to learn a trick or two from the artists, as they offered a few classes while on the lake.

When the art show ended, the festivities did not conclude there.

At 7 p.m., a concert was held near the beach to complete the day, with 150 people attending.

Teagan Littlechief, the winner of the 2022 Sas-

katchewan Country Music Association Award for Indigenous Artist of the Year, belted out her tunes for an hour and a half. Many stopped by to listen to the popular singer before they left for home.

The southeast region was the catalyst for interest during the Government of Saskatchewan’s Crown petroleum and natural gas rights public offering, held on Aug. 8.

The sale raised nearly $16.69 million for the province’s coffers. Of the 106 leases posted, 88 received acceptable bids, bringing in more than $7.5 million. They covered 10,445 hectares and the province received $718.29 per hectare.

Four of the six licences posted were sold, with a total value of nearly $9.19 million for 13,552 hectares, or $790.92 per hectare.

The southeast region brought in a little more than $9.02 million for 70 leases and three exploration licences sold, totalling 9,146.727 hectares.

The 70 leases generated slightly more than $6 million, or $888.86 per hectare for the 6,757.249 hectares; while the licences brought in more than $3.01 million, or $1,262.14 per hectare, for 2,389.478 hectares.

There were 78 leases and four licences posted.

The highest bonus bid and dollars per hectare received on an exploration licence in this area was more than $2.51 million, or $3,534.77 per hectare. Cougar Creek Land Ltd. was awarded this 710.557-hectare licence located 13.5 kilometres south of Radville and adjacent to the Skinner Lake Ratcliffe Oil Pool.

The highest bonus bid and dollars per hectare received on a lease in this area was $1.43 million, or $11,040.85 per hectare. This 129.519-hect-

are lease was awarded to Hummingbird Energy Inc., and is located 9.5 kilometres southeast of Lampman, within the Steelman Frobisher Beds Oil Pool.

The Kindersley area generated more than $6.27 million for two leases and one exploration licence encompassing 10,005.237 hectares, or $626.98 per hectare.

ISH Energy Ltd. bid more than $6.17 million, or $668.88 per hectare, for a 9,226.194-hectare exploration licence located four kilometres northwest of Eatonia, near the Laporte Basal Mannville Sand Oil Pool and the Mantario South Basal Mannville Sand Oil Pool. This was the highest bonus bid and highest dollars per hectare received on a parcel in this area.

The highest bonus bid received on a lease in this area was $85,566.58, an average of

$325.15 per hectare, for a 260.724-hectare lease located 31 kilometres northeast of Kerrobert and nine kilometres north of the Kelfield Mannville Sand Oil Pool. Millenium Land (555) Ltd. was the successful bidder.

The Lloydminster area brought in more than $1.39 million for 16 leases totalling 2,908.935 hectares, or $479.42 per hectare. A total of 25 leases and one licence were posted.

The highest bonus bid received on a parcel in this area was $297,966.05, or $655 per hectare. This 454.91-hectare lease is located 10 kilometres west of Cut Knife and adjacent to the Baldwinton Sparky Sand Oil Pool. This lease was awarded to Millennium Land Ltd.

Be sure to check our provincial news hub, www.sasktoday.ca, for ongoing coverage of the energy sector.

Drilling Licenses

From left, assistant deputy minister for the parks division Jennifer Johnson and park manager of Moose Mountain Provincial Park Kim Brown revealed the heritage plaque located along the walking path by the chalet. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

Dwayne Rogers received his stem cell transplant

By Stephanie Zoer

Dwayne Rogers received a stem cell transplant on Aug. 2 in Saskatoon and so far, things are looking good for him.

Rogers was diagnosed with leukemia and was told he had a few weeks to live.

After receiving vigorous chemotherapy treatment, he went into remission until a few months ago, when the blast cells in his blood came back.

The leukemia had returned, and it was imperative that he receive this stem cell treatment.

His sister was a perfect match, but due to some complications could not be a donor.

Luckily for Rogers, another donor was found in another country, and this person was also a perfect match.

Rogers would now need to prepare for the transplant and the months to follow.

He would require 38 shots, two at a time, once a day. These shots would be administered into his belly.

Another bone marrow test would be needed. He has had 15 bone marrow tests over the course of his illness.

Blood work has been done on a regular basis. This tells how the blast cells were increasing. A port was placed through Rogers’ chest into his heart.

“It was not a great feeling, but it was something that needed to be done,” said Rogers.

Rogers laid in a chair in the hospital, which would form his body. He said it was similar to a bean bag chair. He would also wear a mask, which he said looked like a fencing mask and it was pinned down so he could not move.

This treatment of radiation lasted one hour after

his belly received lined tattoos.

Through all the testing, poking and prodding, Rogers said he has felt pretty good, with no sickness or pain.

“The specialist and nursing staff have been great and make it an easier process,” said Rogers.

Now days after the treatment, Rogers is feeling tired, and this was to be expected according to the doctors.

Rogers will remain in hospital in Saskatoon for four to six weeks. He will then be an outpatient for the next four to six months, remaining in Saskatoon as he will have to check into the hospital daily.

At that time, his wife will stay with him and be his caregiver.

It is a long road, but it is one that Rogers and his wife hope works so they can live their lives.

Third annual cancer run was successful in Arcola

By Stephanie Zoer

The third annual Creative Tables cancer run, walk and ride was held on Aug. 13, beginning at the Arcola Optimist Legion Hall.

Each person could choose to go five, 10 or 15 kilometres, and at 10 a.m. they had a mini mile that was created for the kids.

To organize this event, it takes several volunteers. Along the way, check stops are posted for runners who need to refuel on water.

Each participant looks for donations for cancer and Bill Wyatt was the top fundraiser, raising $1,000.

Four youngsters went above and beyond in col-

lecting donations. Kitt Currie, and Connor, Luke and Emmett Johnston raised the roof for the fight against cancer with their donations.

Const. David Madill from the Carlyle RCMP joined in as well, keeping an eye on everyone’s safety. He enjoyed showing the kids the police gear and vehicle. Kids had a chance to sit in the cruiser and put on a vest.

According to Darlene Olsen, the organizer of Creative Tables, the weather was perfect for the 29 participants.

They were grateful for the Arcola Health Centre and their staff when an incident occurred with a runner from Estevan. It all worked out for the runner.

Olsen said this is another wrap for this year and she was pleased with the turnout. She hopes to see everyone at the Creative Tables event which will be held on Oct. 12.

Kids had the opportunity to check out a police cruiser while at

Dwayne and Rosalinda Rogers wish to get on with their lives after the transplant. Photo courtesy of Dwayne Rogers

the cancer run in Arcola.

Photo by Darlene Olsen

Photos by Stephanie Zoer

Carlyle’s motocross track saw a lot of flying dirt

By Stephanie Zoer

People could hear the roar of the motocross engines as they approached the Carlyle track on Aug. 12.

Kelly and Susan Rekken’s son, Bowan Rekken, had passed away and was very involved in riding his dirt bike.

It was shortly after his death that the Carlyle Rental Centre, which was owned by the family was contacted by Craig Erik in 2003 to build a memorial racetrack in Carlyle. The idea took off and construction of the track began in 2004 with many bikers stepping up to the plate to make this possible.

In 2007, the first races were held at the newlybuilt track.

Two programs are held at the track yearly and Saturday was the first one for the year.

Spectators could purchase a drink at the concession stand, which also offered breakfast and lunch.

With throttles wide

By Stephanie Zoer

The second annual Wade Robertson Memorial Golf Tournament is set for Aug. 19 at the Carlyle Golf Course.

Robertson was a coach in Carlyle Minor Hockey for many years and had decided to sit back and become a spectator.

open, the gates came down and the first race began.

Sharp turns need to be maneuvered and steep hills sent the bike and riders high in the air, but

He was approached by the Carlyle Cougars senior hockey team to be the head coach, starting in the 2021-22 season, and he just could not say no.

In May 2022, Robertson died suddenly at the age of 47, which devastated the community.

The first edition of the Wade Robertson Memo-

2023/2024

this did not slow down these racers.

According to the riders, the weather was great, with cooler temperatures in the morning.

Kate Lees is a member

rial Tournament brought in 108 players last year.

It is the organizers’ hope to encourage more players to attend this year with the prizes they will have.

The 18-hole, four-person scramble, will have a shotgun start at 11 a.m.

Last year the tournament sold out in 24 hours and golfers do not want to miss the chance to win over $100,000 in cash and prizes this year.

Lonestar Directional Drilling has offered a $25,000 cash prize for a hole in one, and 206 Resource Group has offered two cash prizes of $25,000 for an ace.

Carlyle’s Merit Ford

of the Carlyle track club and the president of the South Corner Racing Circuit, which has races in Carlyle and other communities.

Lees said racers come

will give a person a new vehicle if they get a hole in one.

There are several raffle prizes and other items up for grabs this day.

Chairman Ty Currie said this fundraiser is for their hockey team, but they will also give some of the funds raised back to the community.

Included in the entry fee is a steak sandwich lunch at the clubhouse.

An item to be raffled off will be “The Barrow of Booze”, which is a wheelbarrow filled with different alcohol.

The Cougars hope to keep his memory alive through this annual tournament.

Sports $ 80 Boiled Whole Lobster or 14oz Striploin Steak

from Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle, Alameda and Souris, Man., but they could come from Moose Jaw and further east into Manitoba as well.

With the dirt and

stones flying, each rider gave it their all in the 11 individual classes.

Each class has a chance at the beginning of the day to check out the track with a trial run.

Flag people are placed on the hills, watching for any issues that may arise. Approximately 15-20 riders took part in each class, which was a great turnout for the day.

Placings for the classes were: A-class went to Travis King and the B-class went to Tucker Wyatt, with the C-class going to Matt Russill.

The 125 class went to Tucker Wyatt, while Kate Lees took the women’s class.

Supermini went to Leo Hickey, and he also took the 85cc class.

Eli Hickey won the 65cc class and the 50cc class went to Boston Olmstead.

The over-30 vet class went to Bryce Friess and the youth class was won by Travis King.

The next race will be held on September 16 at the Carlyle Motocross race track.

Phone: 306-453-2525 : Studies show that reading keeps the mind sharp. Give your brain a boost. Pick up a copy of the newspaper and expand your mind with a world of information. E x e r c i s e Y o u r B r a i n . Exercise Your Brain.

Geared up and ready to go at the Carlyle Motocross race track. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

The Wade Robertson Memorial Tournament will be held on Aug. 19 at the Carlyle Golf Course. Photo courtesy of the Carlyle Cougars

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BY PHONE: 306-453-2525

BY FAX: 306-453-2938

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Ernest “Ernie” Joseph Debusschere 1934 - 2023

With saddened hearts, Ernie’s family announces his passing at Newhope Pioneer Lodge in Stoughton, Sask. on August 10, 2023 at the age of 89.

Ernie was born on March 16, 1934 on the farm south of Forget, Sask., the eldest child of Paul & Elizabeth Debusschere. Left with special memories of Ernie are: his sister Mary Stocker and her children: Lee (Tamara), Debra (Graeme) and Deanna (Scott); his sister-in-law Mary Lou Debusschere and her children: Linda (Ron), Sandy (Donna), Patsy and Larry (Glenda); his brother Don Debusschere (Lorraine) and their children: David (Kira), Ryan (Allison) and Mark (Laura). Ernie will also be missed by his great nieces and nephews, as well as many special friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother Rene and brotherin-law Jack Stocker.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 18, 2023 at 12:00 noon in Our Lady of La Salette Roman Catholic Church, Forget, with Rev. Chris Juchacz the celebrant. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery, after which everyone is invited to join the family for a time of fellowship and refreshments at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Stoughton.

Those wishing to pay tribute to Ernie via a donation in his memory may do so directly to the Stoughton-Tecumseh & District Fire Department, Box 598, Stoughton, SK S0G 4T0, or the Stoughton & District First Responders, Box 282, Stoughton, SK S0G 4T0.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Newhope Pioneer Lodge in Stoughton for the care and compassion shown to Ernie.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for the Debusschere family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

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Wawota weekly news

By Myrna Olson

Visiting with Edna Benner recently were her sisters, Kay (and Glen) Oakes from Winnipeg and Jean Miller from Calgary. They were here for a couple of weeks.

Diana Purdie from Regina visited with her sisters Linda Birnie and Sandra Murray and their families.

HEALTH

Congratulations to Tamara Barkley (Veronica’s daughter) and Owen Easton of Regina who were married at the Chalet at Kenosee Lake on Aug. 5. Their reception was held at the Wawota Town Hall. Tamara is the granddaughter of Larry and Helen Hutchison.

A graveside service was held on Aug. 13 at the Highview Cemetery as a farewell to Ken Easton, who passed away on Aug. 1. A luncheon was held at the home of Josephine Easton following the committal.

Congratulations to Carson and Amy Brady of Carlyle on the birth of their daughter on July 29. She weighed six pounds, 11 ounces, and has been named Lizzie Fae. She is a sister for Kacey and a granddaughter for Scot and Deanne Jackson of Wawota, and Lynn Brady of Kenosee Lake. She is also a great-granddaughter for Dorothy Brady and Clara Coffey, both of Carlyle.

Alex and Maureen McIssac from Calgary renewed acquaintances in Wawota recently.

Advertisements and statements contained herein are

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.

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FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know 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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS & LABOURERS WANTED

For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc.

Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc.

Fax: 306-769-8844

brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

Busy construction company requiring a SLINGER OPERATOR WITH CLASS 3 LICENSE. Must be capable of manual labor assisting with exterior weeping tile and basement gravel installation. Competitive wage with year round employment and opportunity for overtime. Must submit drivers abstract.

Email resumes to rversteeg@ a1cement.com or call 1-403-333-1722

Ray and Jessi Nickel, William, Gallahan and Isobel from Didsbury, Alta., stopped by in Wawota on Heritage Day. They were returning home after a holiday to Iowa. They are former residents of Wawota.

The family of Bill and Marie Jensen gathered in Wawota for a reunion Aug. 7-13. Families in attendance came from B.C., Alberta, Minnesota and Saskatchewan for a week of reminiscing and fun family activities.

Alida happenings

By Edel Cowan

Faye Walker was in Saskatoon for a few days this past week, visiting with her family, the Nickels, and helping her daughter celebrate her birthday. She had a dental appointment as well.

Lacie Nilsen of Regina spent a couple of days over the weekend with her family Tim, Shelly and Ainsley Cowan, they enjoyed their time at the camper.

Nothing moving yet in the fields, but the farmers are keeping a close watch on everything. They have done some spraying, so I’m sure the harvest rush will soon begin. Good luck to the farmers and let’s hope once they get started they can keep on going.

Until next week – take care and remember to inform me of any happenings around town or in the area. Text or call me at 306-485-8561.

AGRICULTURE

Cardinals win provincial title; heading to westerns

By David Willberg

The dream season for the Carlyle Cardinals senior baseball team continues, and they aren’t finished playing yet.

The Cardinals defeated the Standard Hill Lakers 5-3 Sunday in Yorkton to win the Baseball Sask Senior AA Tier 2 provincial championship. The win came two weeks after the Cardinals captured the Saskota Baseball League championship for the fourth consecutive year by winning the Jack Harbourne Memorial Trophy.

“We hit quite well, actually, and we had great pitching performances,” said player-coach Brent McLean.

It’s the Cardinals’ first provincial title since 2016. McLean believes four players on this year’s team were part of the 2016 entry.

Carlyle dropped its opening game of provincials 4-2 to the host Yorkton Marlins on Saturday. McLean said they hadn’t

played in two weeks, so it took a while to get into an offensive rhythm.

“I think we only had three hits, and everybody got into the swing of things after that. That was probably the turning point, was

getting some at bats under our belt,” said McLean.

They recovered to defeat the North Battleford Beavers 7-5 later in the day.

Carlyle rattled off three straight wins on Sunday.

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Carlyle Observer Email: Observer@sasktel.net

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

Church of Our Lady, Carlyle

Father Chris Carlyle: Saturday at 7 p.m. Sunday at 11 a.m.

Kenosee: Sunday at 9 a.m.

Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200

Up first was an 11-6 win over the Saskatoon Rockies. Then they crushed Standard Hill 18-1 in a game the Cardinals needed to win to keep their season alive. Standard Hill had already punched its ticket to the final.

“We thought we’d do well in the final game of the round robin, just because that game didn’t

mean a whole heck of a lot for Standard Hill at that time, but we knew we were going to get their best in the final,” said McLean.

In the final against Standard Hill, the Cardinals were down 3-1 after four innings, but scored four in the fifth and then stymied the Lakers’ offence.

“We had a couple of timely hits, and Kody Rock

Rural Municipality of Reciprocity No. 32

Public Notice

Affected Land

2012.

All land within the R.M. boundaries.

Public Inspection

Any person may inspect the bylaws at the R.M. office during regular office hours Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Public Hearing Council will hold a public hearing on September 14th, 2023 at 9:00am at the R.M. of Reciprocity No. 32 office, to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaws. Council will also consider any comments that are received in writing at the office or emailed to rm.of.reciprocity@sasktel.net in advance of the hearing.

Issued in the Rural Municipality of Reciprocity No. 32 this 11th day of August, 2023.

Marilyn J. Larsen

Chief Administrative Officer, R.M. #32 Phone: 306-443-2212 Email: rm.of.reciprocity@sasktel.net

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

shut the door. He was as good as ever in that game. He struck out eight of the first nine batters he faced.”

The Cardinals were pretty exhausted by the end of the final, McLean said.

“We only had 10 players at times during the week, and we finished with 11, but it was a lot of games in a matter of two days,” said McLean.

McLean expressed thanks to the Cardinals’ fans who travelled to Yorkton to watch the action. Some were supporters who don’t have a familial connection to the team.

The Cardinals are now preparing to compete at Western Canadians in Oak River, Man., from Aug. 1820. It marks the first time the Cards have ever made it to a Western event.

They qualified thanks to their runner-up finish at Tier 1 provincials last year.

Joining Carlyle will be the host Oak River Dodgers, Manitoba’s Border West All Stars, Alberta’s Parkland Twins and B.C.’s South Delta Brewers.

McLean said they are looking forward to playing these top teams from elsewhere in the country.

•••

Two other teams were at provincials this weekend. The Redvers A’s competed at the Senior AA Tier 3 tournament in Gull Lake. They finished tied with the Unity Cardinals and the North East Red Sox for first in the round robin with a 3-1 record, but the A’s missed out on the final on a tie-breaker. Redvers defeated the Gull Lake Greyhounds 1910, the Red Sox 4-3 and the Cabri River Rats 11-2, but lost 9-7 to Unity.

The Arcola Threshers were at the Tier 4 tournament in Regina, where they went 1-3. They won 22-18 over the Rosetown Angels, but lost 6-4 to the Pasqua Angels, 14-1 to the Macklin Lakers and 19-8 to the Regina Red Dogs.

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 Carlyle Cardinals gather for a group photo after winning the provincial championship. Photo courtesy of the Carlyle Cardinals’ Twitter feed

You’re going to lose access to local news on Facebook and Google.

Dear readers,

Your access to local, provincial and national news is going to be revoked on Google, Facebook and Instagram.

And it’s not because of anything we’ve done.

Recently, Canada passed the Online News Act, also known as Bill C-18, which has led to a standoff between the government, Google and Meta — the parent company behind Facebook and Instagram.

Both Google and Meta have said they plan to cut ties with the news industry in Canada as a result.

This means Meta will block the posting and sharing of our news articles on Facebook and Instagram. Google will also remove links to our sites and articles in Google News, Discover and search results. They’ll also cancel significant content licensing agreements already in place with our parent company, Glacier Media.

Undoubtedly, this will have a huge impact not solely on us but, more importantly, on people like yourself who may use these platforms to discover what’s happening in your community and to get context to events happening in your own backyard.

We’re not planning on going anywhere, but here’s how you can help:

1. Sign up for our free daily newsletter by scanning the QR code. (And encourage your family and friends to do the same.)

2. Follow us on Twitter.

3. Bookmark our website as the homepage on your devices.

4. If you own/operate a local business, consider supporting local by placing ads with 100% Canadian-owned media outlets, like us.

With your help, more people will be able to get their local news from a trusted source. In today’s age of misinformation, that’s more important than ever.

Thank you. We appreciate you.

Sincerely,

The Carlyle Observer team

Rare amphicar takes a spin on Kenosee Lake

By Stephanie Zoer

A rare amphicar visited Kenosee Lake on Monday giving on lookers to chance to ride in a vehicle on the lake.

Jeff Norton, the CEO of the Manitoba Teachers Pension Fund, took his car, which is also registered as a watercraft to Regina Beach and Kenosee Lake.

Norton came to Saskatchewan to play golf in Regina and came to Kenosee on Monday to play golf there as well.

Norton purchased the vehicle in 2010 from a private collector in Virginia.

The 1966 amphicar, model 770, was manufactured in Germany by the Quandt Group.

At the time, 3,878 were produced with 3,046 exported to the United States.

It is believed that there are under 600 of these vehicles in circulation today, with half of them in private collections and the other half also owned privately but used in the public.

The rear engine has four cylinders and sports 43 horsepower, 1,147cc.

It can travel a little more than 110 kilometres per hour and seven knots on the water.

This amphicar was originally sold in Red Bluff, Calif, and only has 34,600 kilometres clocked.

Norton and his father Bryan enjoyed cruising

around Manitoba in 2010 and 2011, but in February of 2012 Norton’s father died from Parkinson’s disease. Bryan had suffered from the illness for many years.

The same year, the family launched a fundraiser for Parkinson’s, and over the years has raised $43,000.

In 2021, the fund was named The Amphicar Experience Fund and all proceeds go to Parkinson’s.

Norton is happy to put a smile on people’s face when they ask for a ride. In return he askes for a donation for the fight against Parkinson’s.

Many people flocked around the unique car

that had them curious and asking questions and looking for a ride.

Stoughton Horticultural Show celebrates its heritage

By Stephanie Zoer

The Stoughton Drop-

In Centre became a busy place on Aug. 10 for the Stoughton Agricultural Society’s horticultural show. This event has been happening for decades and is still going strong. The downpours of rain did not stop eager contestants from racing to the centre’s doors.

Treasurer Inga Hill said it is a way for people to showcase what they grow and bring the community of gardeners together.

To participate is simple. It is a small membership fee and then a person can enter as many times as they want.

The items shown must be grown in the person’s garden, whether it be vegetables, fruits or flowers.

There are eight class-

es to pick from and each class has 30 places to enter.

Vegetables are judged on their texture, colour, feel and consistency of size when there are several on the plate. They need to look appealing.

Flowers need to be clean and crisp. No dead foliage and if it is an arrangement, neatly organized.

Preserves must come in a clean, sealed jar that has been unopened. This too will be judged on texture, colour and the flavour of the preserves. In this class many pickles, relishes, fruits and jams were present.

According to Hill, the younger generation is really beginning to show interest, which is great.

Kids are also taking part in the show. They have their own classes to make an impression on the judge.

Over 100 entries were received from 10-11 a.m.,

with judging following shortly after.

From 3-5 p.m. a coffee and tea social were held. Anyone could come and look at the displays and enjoy an array of homemade squares.

Hill said the growing

season was off this year. Normally the month of June is wet and cooler, but this year it was hot and dry. This changed things immensely.

This caused less produce to be displayed as the season had already passed and some crops were just coming into season.

Raffle tickets were sold on three prizes. The lucky winners were Lorraine Cameron winning the Moose Jaw Spa package,

Gladys Rolufs won the Herr Kutz perm, and Mindy’s Pizza went to Glen Richardson.

There was also a table with silent auction items for bidding.

Hill feels it was a good turnout, despite the rainy weather, which was needed.

They are thankful to all the sponsors and donors that contributed to this event and helped make it successful.

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

Of ce Hours:

Office Hours:

Monday - Thursday

Monday - Friday 9 am - 12 noon; 1 pm - 4 pm

The first ride caused a few issues with the craft when it stalled in

the water, but once up and running people enjoyed the chance.

This rare amphicar could be seen floating on Kenosee Lake, giving onlookers the chance to have a ride. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

The Stoughton Agricultural Society committee is, back row, from left, treasurer Inga Hill, secretary Gwen Veer, vice-president Laura Sabados and director Krystle Zoer. Front row, from left, director Lorraine Stocker and president Valerie Goudy. Absent were directors Sandra Goudy and Ruth Klatt. Photo by Stephanie Zoer