OBSERVER
Young local girl has dream of making a career as a professional artist
By Stephanie Zoer
Ashlynn Smith is a tenyear-old young lady that has a dream of becoming a professional artist as her career when she is older.
Ashlynn is the daughter of Curtis and Ashley Smith, and she has a brother named Nevah.
The family lives on a farm outside of Stoughton with their two dogs, Ora and Sierra, along with the family cat Mr. Boo.
After living near Creelman for 10 years, they moved to the farm last August where they raise cattle. Curtis works for the R.M. of Tecumseh and Ashley works at the New Hope Pioneer Lodge in Stoughton.
Smith said her daughter has always enjoyed drawing and as a young child was seen doodling all the time.
Over the past 2-3 years Ashlynn has began to blossom with her talent and started to draw more intensely, having a passion for scenic photos, although is willing to try any form of art.
Her biggest inspiration is her grandmother, Susan Smith, who is also an artist. The two of them spend a great deal of time together painting and doing crafts, which is an inspiration to Ashlynn.
In December Ashlynn went to her first craft show during the Carlyle Dickens Village Festival. She at-
tended with her grandma, and she was happy with the response she received from visitors.
Ashlynn is not into sports, only art. Her mom has tried to get her to take some classes to help her further her
talent, but Ashlynn is happy right now just doing her own thing.
“I want to keep practicing and believing in myself,” said Ashlynn, who wants to become a professional, but also wants to take her time.
Spending time with her grandma is important to the young artist, as grandma has an art room and the supplies to help Ashlynn along.
Scenery is Ashlynn’s favourite to draw and will use pencils and acrylics to ac-
complish her work.
Although Ashlynn is not ready to take classes presently, it is her hope that in the future when she is older to gain more perspective of her talent to becoming a professional artist.
Ashlynn Smith displayed her art for the rst time at the Carlyle Dickens trade last December. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
January
Mon, Jan 13 – Southeast Community Champion Meeting
Sat, Jan 25 – Youth Funspiel Carlyle Curling Club
Sat, Jan 25 – 32nd Annual Arcola Optimist Snowmobile Rally
Sun, Jan 26 – Carlyle Minor Ball Pitching Clinic
By Stephanie Zoer
Born in Stratford, Ontario, Zach Sloane lived with his family near Ingersol and as a child pretended to be a pastor while growing up, and although he was a man of faith, it was not what he wanted to do first.
He moved to England at the age of 16 to play professional soccer as a team scouted him.
Sloane played for a year and then tragedy struck when he blew out his knee and needed surgery. It was at this point he was told that he was never going to play soccer again.
Loving the sport of soccer, he attempted to play once more, only to have the same injury, ending his career in the sport.
Finishing high school, he took a personal training course and joined the British Royal Marine.
During this time, he struggled with his faith, and he asked God, if he was real to help him to find the right path.
Sloane returned to Canada and met up with Jen Sloane, his now wife. He has known Jen since grade five and they married in 2006.
It was at this time that Sloane’s faith began to become strong and in 2011 he attended the Huron Univer-
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February
Sun, Feb 2, 9 & 23 – Carlyle Minor Ball Pitching Clinic
March
Sat, Mar 15 – Arcola High House – The Leftovers Tues to Sat - Mar 25 -29 – 125th Arcola Curling Club Bonspiel
April
Sat, April 19 – Arcola High House – J.J. Voss
*Do you have a community event you want listed here?
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.
New Pastor welcomed to Stoughton Apostolic Church
sity College and took the Master of Theology Studies.
They joined the Impact Church and he took his mentorship under the pastor in that church.
Upon going to a conference, they changed churches and joined the Apostolic church. They felt the surroundings were better suited to what they felt was needed in their faith.
Churches, although all believing in God, have different rules on how they feel a church should be run.
In 2017 Sloane became the National Team leader and also the pastor of a small church group.
They now have three teenage children that Jen has home schooled since they were of school age. Her days are filled with schooling as they felt the one-on-one learning was better for their children.
One day the couple said they needed to speak to each other on a serious matter.
Sloane told his wife that he had received word from God that they should move to the west. At the same time Jen also received this calling to move west. They spoke to their children and everyone agreed to the move. At the time they did not have the funds for this move and they
prayed that the funds would come into place, and it did, so they packed up and went to Lethbridge, Alberta.
At the time Sloane did not have a job and had planned to work anywhere he could, but he received work through the campus as the campus pastor.
With his first dedication,
the same pastor that dedicated him in Ontario, was at the church that day. “It was a special feeling,” said Sloane.
After being there for a year and a half he felt the need to have his own church to lead and began looking for such.
The Stoughton Apostolic Church had been without a
pastor for over two years, and he saw the job posting and sent in his reply.
Sloane traveled to Stoughton and presented his sermon and spoke to the people of the congregation. He felt it was a warm and welcoming place.
The second time Sloane came with his wife and children. Jen was on board to move, but at first their children were not so sure. They talked about the move and prayed and in the end they all agreed that this was going to be a great thing for the family.
They moved here in October and they are happy they did. Sloane said they had met a lot of great people and that the church and community were very welcoming.
This is the first church that Sloane is the lead pastor. “This church has a lot of history,” he said. “I want to honour that history.”
They hope to make this home for a long time and to share the love of Jesus through the church and in their lives.
“I want to share my love for God with the people,” said Sloane. “God is good, and he forgives us. No matter what, we just have to keep the faith.”
“We all have struggles, we just need to bring it to God and believe that he will help us,” Sloane said.
From left, Jen Sloane and Pastor Zach Sloane came to Stoughton to be the lead pastor of the Stoughton Apostolic church. Photo by Zach Sloane
Making Year End & Ta x Prep Ea
Moose on the loose can be dangerous
By Stephanie Zoer
Moose are majestic creatures and are renowned for their impressive sizes, striking antlers and unique adaptions to their environment. They are seen regularly in the southeastern part of Saskatchewan but are found primarily in the forests of north America, Europe and Asia.
Moose are the largest members of the deer family with adult males, called bulls, reaching 800-1200 pounds and standing six feet at the shoulder. Females known as cows are slightly smaller weighing in at 600-1000 pounds.
They are easily recognized with their long, board snouts, humped shoulders, and a distinctive flap of skin, known as the dewlap or bell that hangs from their throats.
Perhaps the most remarkable feature of the
moose is the antlers of the males. These antlers can span up to six feet wide, are shed and grown annually.
During the breeding season, bulls use these antlers to compete for mates, engaging in dramatic displays and battles.
In the breeding season bulls are much more aggressive and should be avoided at all times as they can attack using their front legs to strike their victims.
Moose have a 50 kilometre radius that they travel in, searching for
their primary diet of leaves, twigs, bark and slough grass.
The bulls are generally a solitary animal, but the cows remain with their calves. Bulls and cows only come together during rutting season, where they can be very vocal.
Despite the size of these animals, they are very agile and can run up to 50 kilometres an hour, swim at an amazing speed and dive up to 20 feet under the water to forage for food. They have few natural predators due to their
size and strength, but during calving season, the young animals are vulnerable to wolves, bears and cougars.
Another significant challenge for the moose population is the infestation of winter ticks and brainworm, which can cause large health issues and even mortality.
In addition to predators, they are also a huge risk to vehicle collisions and do a great deal of damage to vehicles because of their size. It is always important to slow down when seeing these huge animals near the road, as in a moment they can turn and head for the highway, clearing fences like they do not exist. If at any time a moose or other wildlife is seen in distress, please call the Wildlife Rescue Society of Saskatchewan or a conservation officer in the area.
This cow and her yearling calf were seen just off of highway 13 near Kisbey, and swiftly crossed the road and jumped the fence. Photo by Stephanie Zoer
Views
It is a new year, yes, it is
Stephanie Zoer
Just a few words
The start of a new year is a natural time for us to reflect on the past and set new goals for the future.
Whether it is personal growth, professional advancement or improved health and relationships, the new year offers a blank slate to redefine our priorities and chase our aspirations.
But how do we turn resolutions into results?
I do not make resolutions, but I do have goals, and there is a difference. A resolution is a statement of what I want changed and a goal is a statement of what I want to achieve, the steps I need to do to achieve it and when I want to achieve it. Sometimes I do not have a time line, it is just something I am always going to work on.
At the beginning of each new year, I look back on the last and see if I actually achieved what my plan was. Some of that plan did not work out while others exceeded what I expected.
Last year I had planned to ride my horse in a national horse show, and I achieved this with riding at Level 1, and I even did okay considering I did not have the chance to ride very much.
This year my goal is ride more often, not in the winter as I freeze to death in the cold but come spring and summer it will be the time. I plan to advance to the next level, but I also have to reach my goal first that I set from last year, as it is based on my score percentage. Is this something that I have to pass? No, it is not, it is a personal goal that I feel comfortable with.
We need to set goals with which we are comfortable. Setting a goal of losing 50 pounds in three months is an unrealistic goal, but setting the same weight loss for a year is much more achievable, and it also takes the pressure off.
Setting goals is a great way to get something done, we need to define exactly what we want to achieve. We need to set a criteria to track our progress and ensure our goal has the resources we need. We also need to align that goal with our values and priorities. How important is it to you to accomplish this?
If need be, set a deadline, but make it doable. There is nothing worse than setting a deadline that is too short and not making it to feel like a failure.
Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller ones that are manageable tasks. Each small victory will build momentum and keep you motivated for the next step.
For instance, if you plan to write a book, start by writing daily, but do not plan on writing full chapters each day. If it happens, that is a bonus, and you have exceeded that day’s expectations.
Since my horse is boarded an hour and a half away, when the weather gets nice, my plan is to ride every other week. It may not seem like much, but it is more than what I had last year, and at times life gets in the way.
Life is unpredictable and plans may need to change, but having a group that supports these goals is also especially important.
Acknowledging small wins is crucial for staying motivated, no matter how small that win is.
While achieving goals is rewarding, the growth and learning we experience along the way are equally important.
Embrace the process and take pride in the effort you invest.
The new year is brimming with potential, but success lies in your ability to turn dreams into a realistic dream.
Reflect on the past, set achievable goals and your dreams will become a reality.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
- Nelson Mandela
Remembering what was(n’t)
Shelley Luedtke
The new year often brings with it encouragement to look ahead and plan, while at the same time taking stock and remembering what was. Retrospectives were in abundance last week, but one in particular caught my eye. It asked readers to think not about the year that just passed, but further back as it asked what they missed most from the 1990s and 2000s.
Shopping malls were mentioned—particularly the atmosphere they once had. One woman remembers being a teenager at that time. “It’s where we would hang out. Friends met up and we were safe there. It was also where many of us got our first job. They were fun places to be.”
Others mentioned the excitement of getting a new CD, Saturday morning cartoons, going to Blockbusters on a Friday night, and web pages that felt personal since there weren’t standard templates.
Some commented on the freedom of living in a time when we weren’t un-
der constant surveillance. One responder feels badly for young people today unable to “cut loose and have fun without worrying that you’re going to be filmed by everyone on their phones and posted everywhere.” One person had a succinct answer to what they miss most: privacy.
Other responses included air travel as it used to be, a time when politics was boring, separation of work and home life, and neighborhoods where people knew each other and the kids could run free as long as they were home by nightfall.
The danger in such reminiscences is that we sometimes look back with a rather selective set of blinders. The proverbial rose-colored glasses. Times were easier. Life was better. Families were stronger. Government more honest. We were safer.
Yet corruption, crime, inflation, dysfunction, violence, economic uncertainty, war, conflict, terror and all the rest have been constant companions to more extreme and lesser degrees depending on where we live and the circumstances of our lives. Which is the point.
To be able to look back nostalgically at any time period in our lives is a gift. It means there were such good things they emerge amidst other recollections and cause us to remember the time fondly, even though there was likely pain and heartache
tangled in with it all. But that’s not what stands out. I can remember when it took time to drive to the video store and pick out movies but it was a lot of fun combing through stacks of titles with friends or family and coming across ones you forgot you wanted to see. Yet the economy was floundering, university graduates couldn’t get jobs and crime was increasing.
If I think back further, I have fond recall of heading to a ball diamond or make-shift field in the park and soon there would be enough kids gathered to have a game. It was a carefree time. Yet the backdrop for this was rising divorce rates leading to the unprecedented break-up of the family unit.
I, too, bemoan the diminished state of large, traditional department stores and malls. Heading to a physical store takes more time and energy than hitting send on an online order, but it also means wandering through aisles, seeing what else is available, getting some steps in and maybe even running into someone you know. But this time, when someone suggests getting together for coffee…make it happen.
Because this is the thing people say they miss most: connection and the way we valued time together.
Several grandparents remarked about relationships with their grand-
kids. One man explained, “I couldn’t wait to sit and talk with my grandpa. He always listened to me and gave me advice when it was warranted. Now I pick up my grandson to go for lunch and he’s on his phone. He respects it when I ask him to put it away but I never feel like he’s fully engaged in our conversation.”
Another remarked, “I remember the 1990’s for me were about friends and family. We didn’t need to go on expensive vacations. We had backyard parties, camping in the backyard or at a campground near a lake, going to movie theaters and malls. Life was much simpler and less stressful.”
It was a pretty tough start to 2025. The violence alone is enough to cause despair. So much seems broken and it can make us yearn for times when things didn’t seem so bad. Yet if we are honest we know it wasn’t as idyllic as we make it out to be. Perhaps that glance back can help us grab hold of what we think made it so special and then do what we can to try and capture a similar experience in the present.
“Fast away the old year passes”, declares the song, but as we begin a new year let’s not be so quick to let the “old” go but instead to try and bring along pieces that made the past something to remember fondly, and the future something to truly embrace. That’s my outlook.
Camping in Saskatchewan is no longer just a summer event
By Stephanie Zoer
Saskatchewan Parks has kicked off their winter camping season for 2025, opening on November 1 and running until March 16.
Once considered a summer time event is now being held in the winter for those who just cannot get enough of camping.
Winter is a big part of Saskatchewan and the goal for Sask Parks was to offer fun winter activities for visitors to enjoy.
Echo Valley Provincial Park offers a campeasy yurt, giving people front row seats to the beauty of nature. Wind through the Aspen campground on the Skate the Park loop illuminated by more than one kilometre of twinkling lights, then warm up in a nearby tipi.
Although these are heated with propane, warm winter clothing is needed as they are not fully insulated. They have three of these yurts available giving guests a thrilling destination this winter. This is the only park at this time offering the yurts.
Cypress Hills International Park has a six kilometre cross country trail, with ski rentals available. The trails and scenery are breathtaking.
Not all the parks offer winter camping but many of them offer win-
ter activities, such as Moose Mountain Provincial Park that has 50 kilometres of trails from either Little Kenosee or White Tail Trailhead.
Kenosee Lake is also home to ice fishing and many ice shacks can be seen on the lake for the eager fisherman.
Blackstrap Provincial Park has unique woodburning barrel saunas, which gives a person the opportunity to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul amidst the beauty of the world, and a camp site is just around the corner.
Buffalo Pound Provincial Park gives people the opportunity to ice fish right from the boat docks and after the catch, cook it at your camp site. It is also a short distance from Moose Jaw.
Douglas Provincial Park offers winter camping and is also has six kilometres of trails set in a winter wonderland, giving a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, and is ideal for all abilities looking to unwind in nature.
Lake Diefenbaker gives guests the chance
to catch northern pike, rainbow trout and walleye from Danielson Provincial Park, which offers winter camping. Ice skating is surrounded by the winter beauty whether it be a leisurely skate or a vigorous work out.
Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park is said to be the premiere fishing location and is located on the eastern shores of Last Mountain Lake. Set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors while catching the next meal.
A winter adventure is always welcome at Pike
Investory alert: CGWise is not registered
The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) warns investors of the online entity CGWise.
“We always encourage Saskatchewan residents to check that entities selling investment opportunities are registered through the Canadian Securities Administrators’ database,” FCAA Securities Division Executive Director Dean Murrison said. “Verifying registration status at aretheyregistered.ca is an easy step in finance protection.”
CGWise claims to offer Saskatchewan residents trading opportunities including cryptocurrencies, stocks, forex, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), indices and commodities.
This alert applies to the online entity using the websites “CGWise io” and “wisecapitalgroup net” (these URLs have been manually altered so as not to be interactive).
CGWise is not regis-
tered to trade or sell securities or derivatives in Saskatchewan. The FCAA cautions investors and consumers not to send money to companies that are not registered in Saskatchewan, as they may not be legitimate businesses.
If you have invested with CGWise or anyone claiming to be acting on their behalf, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-5936. In Saskatchewan, individuals or companies need to be registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives. The registration provisions of The Securities Act, 1988, and accompanying regulations are intended to ensure that only honest and knowledgeable people are registered to sell securities and derivatives and that their businesses are financially stable. Tips to protect yourself:
• Always verify that the person or company is registered in Sas-
katchewan to sell or advise about securities or derivatives. To check registration, visit The Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca.
• Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you under-
stand how the investment, product, or service works.
• Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
• Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer.
Lake Provincial Park. Enjoy a peaceful time camping while unwinding amidst the parks forested areas.
There are many parks offering this winter camping, which is available until March 16. No reservations are needed but it is always a good idea to call before hand to ensure that the sites are not already being used.
Sites offer power, campfire wood and bathrooms.
Whether guests are going for a one day adventure or a couple of nights stay, there is plenty to do, like snowshoeing, cross country skiing, toboggining or just a hike down the
trails. Some even have ice skating and ice fishing for those who wish to catch their own supper.
Many of these parks offer snowshoes and cross country ski rentals, and locals in park businesses are happy to serve up dinner at the restaurants or have unique accommodations and saunas.
Each of these parks has vast winter activities that the whole family can enjoy, but for now eight provincial parks offer the winter camping.
For more information on what is available in each park, it is best to contact Saskatchewan Parks for all the details.
Several Saskatchewan Provincial Parks now o er winter camping for the camping enthusiasts that wish to camp year round. Photo from the Sask Parks Website
Cornerstone Public School Division reviews budget variances, notes stable financial health
Norm Park Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
Marilyn Yurkiw, the manager of finance and payroll for the South East Cornerstone Public School Division provided a quarterly report to the division’s board members on Dec. 18, during their public meeting.
Yurkiw focused most of her remarks on the variances found in the financial records moving forward in the period from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30.
She spoke about conditions within the revenue and expense side of the ledger that explained the variances within the school division that carries a current revenue expectation of approximately $125.6 million which is about $672,000 under budget with expenditures currently listed at just over $122 million.
As noted in earlier reports, the cost of instruction (i.e. teachers teaching students) continues as the main factor on the expense side with 65 per
cent of the budget being taken up by this sector.
Plant operations and transportation are also significant factors within the budget.
Grants are a major source of revenue and mostly involve the money received from the prov-
incial government that gains the income from the provincial tax base.
The provincial grant is based on enrolment and the changes in SECPSD this academic year and that led to a decrease in the budget of just
over $851,000, she reported.
Tuition fees received, however, showed an increase of slightly more than $166,000 and other related fees to the division are also over the expected budget by $13,000. This revenue reflects fees associated
with a partnership agreement to provide professional services to Pheasant Rump First Nation she said.
Tuition fees paid to other school systems, however, as well as for students under the age of 22 attending the Basic Education Program at Southeast College, come in at just under $34,000.
There are also school generated funds and funds received from other agencies for complementary services such as preKindergarten and early learning programs as well as First Nations programs.
External services also tweak the revenue side on the upward scale on occasion, as will such things as user fees, reimbursements, interest and royalties received on a regular basis throughout the year.
The overall picture to date indicates there are no major alarm bells to be heard within the financial and corporate structure of the public school division.
Vital cyber information and security brought to SECPSD table
Public School Division.
He speaks softly, but also carries a big stick.
The stick is the responsibility factor and is not used as a cudgel for offense but rather a more respectful use within the information and cyber security world in the South East Cornerstone
The stick carrier, Brian Belinsky, provided a 45-minute break out and breakdown regarding information dispensed through the technology paths in the public school division to the board of trustees on Dec. 18.
Belinsky, manager of information systems in SECPSD, had been
asked to provide information regarding the dispensing of information via the cyber world and to also address recent updates in the implementation of various cyber security measures during the school board’s open business session.
The presentation, dubbed Navigating the Technology Landscape,
was filled with information regarding current and future initiatives for the SECPSD.
Belinsky began with an overview of how the systems roll out and introduced the 11-person front line team to the board members via video photos. He spoke of technology integration, user support systems as well as cyber security measures.
through the integration of upgrades was explained. The various financial channels that were deployed to provide the necessary materials and equipment were brought forward.
system offers all types of additional security challenges, he added.
On the technological growth file, Belinsky noted the opportunities for technology growth such as cloud computing and hybrid cloud solutions. He added, “the majority of schools enjoy full connection and training.”
He noted how the area technologists and programming analysts work together to support such endeavours as professional development and support initiatives for staff members.
Cyber security training is within this realm as well as emerging technologies and certifications to ensure that what is captured on the learning scales, is retained and deployed.
Belinsky broke down the sector’s $2.5 million budget, noting that approximately 35 per cent of that is used for security measures and another $600,000 is for equipment upgrades and $900,000 for school technology upgrades.
He also provided a chart showing the progress of budget allocations over a period of 10-years, pointing out the sectors that were now drawing fewer funds while others were in an expense growth pattern.
There is ongoing awareness training for frequent technology users as well as data management training along with the key (basic) security practices and policies.
It all boils down to access equity in schools, building capacity, innovation in the information systems and general operational efficiency measures, he suggested.
The regular use of technology tools can be found in the integration of the Edsby system for educators plus the Sora eLibrary utilization and My School Sask programs as well as others such as bus planners et al.
Recent advancements included some enhanced measures on the cyber security files, technical infrastructure upgrades and a centralization project for school platforms that had brought a dozen more school locations into an upgraded and equal footing with others, pretty well completing what had been a long range goal.
Enhancing cyber security and advancing education technology
Security threats are always a growing challenge and implementing security measures have to be weighed against budget constraints, he said, noting, “security updates come with a cost.”
Rapid technology advancements and the integration of mobile devices in schools and the
There is a future roadmap for technology enhancements, he said, such as increases in connectivity, service management data management and analytics, digital transformation and training for staff and students as well as the vital cyber security requirements.
The presentation was then wrapped up with thanks from the board members.
South East Cornerstone Public School Division building. SaskToday file photo
Norm Park Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
The community of Carlyle has indicated through their town council that they are prepared to add a total of $4.2 million in en-
hancements to the proposed new public school to be located there. It was addressed during the South East Cornerstone Public School Division’s public meeting on Dec. 18. The new school is currently in the planning
to proposed school
stages and will soon be entering into a design mode, so the enhancement package will be included in the overall design and eventual construction of the new facility.
During the course of the meeting recently
The next public meeting for the SECPSD
re-elected chairwoman Audrey Trombley took a leave of absence for the duration of the meeting from the chair position to enable her to attend to other obligations and the chair position was then assumed by vicechairwoman Megan Schick, a Weyburn City representative who was voted into that position by her fellow board members at the division’s re-organizational meeting that was held on Nov. 20.
board members will be on Jan. 15 at 1 p.m. That meeting will follow the regularly planned committee-of-the-whole (incamera) session that is slated for that morning. The public session is live-streamed by the division.
Provincial Indexation and The Saskatchewan A ordability Act will make life more a ordable in 2025
The Saskatchewan Affordability Act and ongoing annual indexation are two ways the Government of Saskatchewan is taking action to ensure the province remains the most affordable place in Canada.
“Every year our government adjusts the provincial income tax brackets and basic tax credits to protect Saskatchewan citizens from the rising cost of inflation, which is also known as indexation,” Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Jim Reiter said. “This provides safeguards against the inflationary pressures that would otherwise push taxpayers into higher tax brackets and reduce the actual value of tax credits. Given the current affordability concerns, it is important we take these steps to help make life more affordable for the people of Saskatchewan.”
The level of indexation in 2025 will be 2.7 per cent, which matches the annual average national inflation rate from October 2023 to September 2024. In 2025, Saskatchewan residents will see $40.5 million in annual tax savings from indexation.
“A family of four will not pay any Saskatchewan income tax on the first $63,200 of their income, the highest taxfree threshold for a family of four in Canada,” Reiter said. “We have more than doubled this tax-free amount during our time in government, which continues to provide significant savings for people throughout the province and helps make life more affordable.”
Indexation was also incorporated into The Saskatchewan Affordability Act, which was recently passed
in the Legislative Assembly.
The Act reduced personal income tax in Saskatchewan by increasing rates for the basic personal, spousal and child exemptions, as well as the seniors supplement, by $500 a year for the next four years on top of annual
indexation adjustments.
The Act provides significant benefits to pensioners and others who are on fixed incomes by indexing and increasing the rate of the Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit, while persons with disabilities, as well as their caregivers, will also benefit from increased tax credits
The commitments in The Saskatchewan Affordability Act are in addition to the more than $2 billion in affordability measures already included in each and every provincial budget.
DESIGN & PRINTING
Trudeau stepping aside a ‘Christmas wish come true’: MP Kitchen
Greg Nikkel SaskToday.ca
The announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that he will be stepping aside came at the perfect time, at the end of the Christmas-New Year’s holidays, said Souris-Moose Mountain MP Robert Kitchen, as he made many Christmas wishes come true.
Trudeau made his announcement on Monday morning that he would leave as Prime Minister once a new Liberal leader is chosen, and will be proroguing Parliament
until March 24 to allow that to happen.
“It’s a good step, but it still hasn’t got us that carbon tax election that we need,” said MP Kitchen from his home in Estevan. “We believe we need that election, and we need to get it as quick as possible.”
The MP pointed out the many problems caused by the Liberals over the last nine years, including the carbon tax which is killing jobs, supported by all Liberal members.
“That’s what people across the country need
to remember, every single Liberal, whether running for the leadership or coming back to run, they all actively supported this prime minister’s outof-control spending, his out-of-control deficits, his policies that that have increased the debt by 150 per cent. We can’t let that be forgotten,” said Kitchen.
After Trudeau’s announcement, he asked the Governor General to prorogue Parliament until March 24 as the Liberals seek a new party leader.
MP Kitchen said once
this is done, the House will be called back to order with a new Throne Speech, and after it’s debated it will go for a confidence vote. Both the Conservative and NDP leaders have said they would be going for a defeat of the government at the first confidence vote opportunity that comes up.
“We want that election, end of story, and that is what we will continue to push for,” said the MP.
“Who that new leader will be is hard to say. I’m sure there will be a bunch
of names thrown in, and a number of people not in government,” he added.
Noting that Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned right before Christmas, he guessed she might be one of those who will run for the party leadership. If she does, voters need to remember that she set a deficit of $40 billion for the current year, and it’s already increased by $62 billion.
“She’s guilty (for the deficit) just like every one of them. She created that deficit spending, or their constant over-spending,”
said the MP. Mark Carney is another possible leadership name, and Kitchen pointed out he endorsed the carbon tax that is in place in his book, “so he’s just as guilty on that tax and the huge deficit we’re accumulating. Hopefully people will point those facts out. As Parliament will not be in session for the next three months, Kitchen said he will be around the constituency a fair amount, and will be available for constituents should they need to contact him at any point.
Complaints about people not wanting to clean their room, littered ice cream and a mean cat are some of the calls to police that “missed the mark” in 2024
With 367,707 calls for service, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Divisional Operational Communications Centre (DOCC)
had another busy year in 2024, taking calls ranging from 911 mis-dials and false alarms to serious incidents regarding
Appendix C FORM H
[Section 66 of the Act]
Notice of Call for Nominations (Municipal By-Election)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
COUNCILLOR: RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF BROCK NO 64
Division No 3 Number to be Elected 1
will be received by the undersigned on the 29th day of JANUARY, 2025 from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM at R.M. OF BROCK NO. 64 MUNICIPAL OFFICE, and during regular business hours on JANUARY 6TH, 2025 to JANUARY 28TH, 2025, at the R.M. OF BROCK NO. 64 MUNICIPAL OFFICE
Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location:
R.M. OF BROCK NO 64 MUNICIPAL OFFICE
LOCATED AT 760 RAILWAY AVENUE, KISBEY, SK
Dated this 6th day of January, 2025
Shawna-Lee Bertram Returning Officer
matters of public safety.
“Our annual list is fun, but it’s important to realize that DOCC officers play a really important role during emergencies. We are the first voice someone hears when they reach out for help from police. We are there until emergency services arrive to help them. We dispatch police officers to calls and provide them assistance during them,” says Lee Rosin, Recruiter and Training Facilitator for DOCC. “It’s important that these lines remain open for those who reach out for help through 911 or 310-RCMP.”
Here are the top 10 calls that “missed the mark” in 2024:
10. Who are you? A concerned individual called 911 to advise that they didn’t recognize
someone on their social media friend list.
9. Spick and span: A frustrated individual called to complain that their parents were forcing them to clean their room.
8. Stop stressing meowt: A caller advised that a fox was wandering the neighbourhood and scaring a local cat.
7. To bee or not to bee: 911 dispatchers received a call from a person saying that they had a problem with bees in their home.
6. Tech support: A concerned individual called 911 to ask for help unlocking their cell phone.
5. Litter bug: An individual called 911 to report that someone had thrown their ice cream on the ground.
4. Cut the cat-itude: A caller advised that their cat was being mean to them and they were hoping an officer would come and help with the situation.
3. Loads of fun: 911 dispatchers received a call from a person who was having trouble with their washing machine.
2. I’m counting on you: An individual called 911 asking for help on a math equation as they didn’t want to fail their test in the morning.
1. Party’s over: 911 dispatchers received a call from an individual saying that their tambourine was taken from a party they attended.
Please remember: whether you’re frustrated with your washing machine, trying to unlock your phone or suspicious of a fox – calling 911 must be reserved for emergencies and crimes
in progress. Saskatchewan RCMP would like to remind the public that there are ramifications for those who misuse 911. Not only is there a chance of preventing someone with a life-threatening emergency from getting help, there is also a summary offence charge under the Emergency 911 Systems Act with fines up to $2000.
RCMP 911 call-takers and dispatchers provide a critical service within the RCMP that supports both public and officer safety. Join the Saskatchewan RCMP Operational Communication Centre and be a part of a team where you’ll make a difference each and every day. For more information or to apply, visit: https:// www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/ telecommunications-operators-9-1-1-dispatcher.
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was here that she found her calling in Bank of Montreal, she found her niche as an Auditor or “Bank Inspector her mom would proudly say”, then Branch Manager at various locations in Winnipeg till her retirement in 2005, at the young age of 55 years old Maxine learned early in life the values of hard work independence loyalty and honesty; with these core values she flourished in every aspect in her life
Many friends made over her lifetime be it on the fairways, curling rinks, ball diamonds, sailing ships, sandy beaches and of course the various BMO branches she worked at, were all very important in Maxine’s life
She kept her circle small if you were in it you knew in her retirement years she found fellowship in the Army & Navy where a few beers were flung and meat draws won Special thanks to her closest friend Adele and neighbours who checked in on her over the years Maxine was predeceased by her parents: Reg & Ruth Beatty her brother Barry and her beloved fur babies Looney & Dakota
She is survived by her only sister: Judy McArthur & nieces and nephews; Jeri-Lyn McArthur (Edge), Juanita McArthur-BigEagle (Jay), Dawn Hayden (Jason), Marcie McArthur-Stevenson (Tony), Nathan McArthur (Missy), Farrah McArthur (Brad), Topasannah Heuchert (Tyler), Eagle McArthur, Warren Beatty, Tracy Schoettle and her beloved fur baby Mysti Cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held as per her request Anyone wanting to honour can do so by donating to Winnipeg Humane Society or Siloam Mission
May the fairways be plush & green the sun shine day & night and the beers be cold and plentiful Till we meet again Rest in Peace
Farm groups processing Trudeau’s resignation announcement
APAS says plans for February meetings with government o cials ‘in limbo.’
Farm groups are digesting an announcement made Monday morning by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who said he is resigning as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and prime minister, once the party selects its next leader.
Speaking in front of Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, Trudeau also announced the governor general granted his request of proroguing parliament until March 24.
“It leaves a lot of questions as to how this affects programming and legislation and what the next couple of months look like in the political scene on the Hill and how does that affect producers. I guess it’s yet to be seen,” said Bill Prybylski, president of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) in reaction to the announcement.
Prybylski says the next time APAS is in Ottawa is the end of February for the Canadian Federation of Agriculture’s annual general meeting, adding meetings APAS was in the process of set-
internally and
ting up with government officials “are in limbo” at the moment. He also says they’ll be contacting the CFA to “see what they’re hearing and what they’re seeing and who it is we should be talking to.”
SaskAgToday reached out to the Canadian Federation of Agriculture for a request for comment Monday afternoon. A spokesperson replied in an email that they are currently processing the announcement and a response will be made soon. Other groups such as the Canadian Cattle Association and Canada Grains Council have not released a response at this time.
The resignation comes three weeks after Chrystia Freeland resigned from cabinet due to disagreements with Trudeau over the future direction of Canada and the number of Liberal MPs calling for Trudeau to step down grew in subsequent days. It also comes well in advance of the upcoming federal election, scheduled for Oct. 20, 2025, and at a time when Canada is facing a series of challenges, including possible 25 per cent tariffs from the incoming Trump administration in the United States and ongoing trade tensions with China and India.
Justin Trudeau’s resignation comes at a time when Canada is facing a series of challenges,
internationally. Photo by Lara Jameson/Pexels
Ryan Young SaskToday.ca
Ordinary people taking extraordinary action Wetlands: Discovering Wonders Close to Home
Barbara Hanbidge’s parents had six children, so money was tight. This meant that options for activities for the children were limited, so they opted for frequent nature walks and camping trips. As a result, Barb grew up loving nature. She was particularly drawn to water and the life that it supports. Her love of nature led her to study Biology at university where she decided that she wanted to focus her efforts on the world’s biggest bodies of water – oceans. But circumstances conspired against her. Instead, she researched wildlife in Saskatchewan and Manitoba and devoted her life’s work to protecting very small, but very important, bodies of water – prairie wetlands.
After finishing her master’s degree, she accepted a position at Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC). This work opened her eyes to the wonders of wetlands, as well as the threats that they face. She was hooked and so
stayed with DUC for 30 years. She worked in several roles, from engaging farmers to protect wetlands, to negotiating the purchase or lease of land to protect duck nesting habitat near wetlands, to developing educational materials. The common thread was the protection of Saskatchewan’s rapidly diminishing wetlands.
Wetlands are one of the most productive ecosystems on the planet. Over 10,000 years ago kilometre high glaciers from the last ice age melted and left behind millions of shallow depressions which hold water, known as prairie potholes or wetlands. Most of Saskatchewan’s agricultural land is in the Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) which is within the once largest expanse of grassland in the world -- the Great Plains of North America. The PPR spans southern Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and extends into North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota and Montana.
The PPR accounts for only 10% of North America’s total waterfowl breeding habitat area, yet it produces 5080% of the continent’s waterfowl populations (Renton et al., 2015). Wetlands provide habitat for 12 of the most common North American duck species. They are also home to about 600 species of plants and animals, more than 50 of which are species at risk, such as the burrowing owl and the piping plover.
In addition to providing critical habitat to plants and animals, wetlands provide important services to humans. Activities like hunting, fishing and birdwatching all rely on healthy wetlands. Wetlands filter water to keep it clean and healthy, and buffer against over-land flooding. Wetlands sequester carbon, which is critical to controlling climate change.
Despite their importance to ecosystem health, wetlands continue to be the most
Full Gospel Church Welcomes You 202-4th St W. Service Schedule: Sunday morning Service 10:30 a.m.
Church of Our Lady, Carlyle
Father Chris Juchacz
Carlyle: Sunday at 11 a.m.
Kenosee: Saturday at 5 p.m Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200
threatened landscapes on the planet. In Canada we have approximately 25% of the world’s remaining freshwater wetlands but research indicates that up to 90% have been lost (Campbell and Rubec, 2003). In Saskatchewan over 4,047 hectares (10,000 acres) of wetlands are lost every year, primarily due to agricultural drainage.
Barb is now retired, and wetlands remain close to her heart. On her
family’s own Heritage Farm near Swift Current, no wetlands are drained and if they are dry, they are not cultivated. in the bigger picture, however, Barb recognizes that there are many barriers to protecting wetlands.
For instance, Saskatchewan is the only prairie province that does not have a wetland policy, and the economics of agriculture do not support protecting wetlands.
On the positive side, Barb sees that awareness of the
importance of wetlands continues to grow, largely thanks to concerned citizens and organizations. Hopefully this increased understanding will drive change to protect wetlands. This column is a collaborative project of the Saskatchewan Environmental Society (SES) and the Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development (RCE-SK). Email championsforfuture@gmail.com
Photo Courtesy of Ducks Unlimited Canada
33. Green with 38. Naps 39. Have creditors 41. Passlaws 42. Tool hut 43. Morse_
44. Destruction
45. Fabric pigments
46. Unkind
47. Track numbers
49. Saute
50. Soap ingredient
ACROSS
1. Adult nits
5. Custom
8. Desk light
12. Type of surgeon
13. Lamb’s mom 14. Awoodwind
15. Adhere
16. Height
18. Make beloved
20. Moreadorable
21. Annoy
22. “____ Gotta Have It”
24. Young chap
26. “__ the Night”
28. Not on
31. Pipe joint
32. Loop of rope
34. Busy as a_
35.Catch sightof
36. Parallel 37. Darn
38. Player’s part 40. Former GI 42. Threadednail
45. Energetic person
48. Buzzing pest
51. Passedwith flying colors
52. Fix up copy
53. Deli bread
54. Covered 55. Bear caves
56. Word of approval
57. Wallet items
DOWN
1. Earring’s place 2.Curling device 3. Frankly
4. Older person 5. Corrode
6. Cobbler’s tool
7. Until now 8. Yoga position 9. Border on 10. Method 11. Gaze 17. Skater’s surface 19. Related 22. Heat source
23. Fireman’s need
24. “____ Girls” 25. French peak 27. Mr. Coward 28. Stumbling block 29. Toll 30. Handful
HOW TO PLAY:
Fill in the grid so thateveryrow, every column and every 3x3 box containsthe numbers 1through 9 only once.
Each3x3 boxisoutlined with a darker line. Youalreadyhavea few numbers to getyou started Remember: you must not repeat the numbers1 through9inthe same line, column or 3x3 box.
PUZZLE NO. 270
PUZZLE NO. 997
ANSWER
NO. 997