OBSERVER THE
Judah Wardrope will release his rst single in February
By Stephanie Zoer
Born in British Columbia, Judah Wardrope moved with his parents Ron and Jodi Wardrope and two younger siblings Vashti and Kaeden to Carlyle when he was nine years old.
His dad, Ron was a teacher and in 2010 the boom was happening in Saskatchewan and teachers were needed to help with the overflow of people moving to the area.
Ron has been the principal at the Arcola School for many years, his mom Jodi stayed at home at first, but having a passion for horses helped at an equine therapeutic ranch but now supervises kids at the Carlyle school that need extra help.
Vashti is an EMT paramedic in Carlyle, while his brother Kaeden is finishing school.
When they moved to Carlyle they moved in beside Mel and Bonnie Freitag.
Wardrope said at first, he had no friends being new in town, and retired farmer Mel took him to the farm where young Wardrope could help with the animals.
“I call him Grandpa Mel as he always treated me like family,” said Wardrope. He loved feeding the cows and being outdoors and his family enjoyed going hunting and fishing.
places, but his parents and siblings remain in Carlyle.
He has worked as a wrangler on a ranch and is now learning carpentry skills. He wants to learn as much as he can.
Continuing to work and fulfilling his dream as a music artist, Wardrope will release his first single on February 21. It will be on all streaming platforms, and he is extremely excited to get the word out as much as possible.
The song titled If I Die Tomorrow, has some deep meaning for Wardrope. He feels that it is important to live each day to its fullest.
“There are times that people do not go after their dreams,” said Wardrope. “And then it is too late.”
“We never know when our time is over,” he said. Right now, he is working on a music video for his song If I Die Tomorrow and booking shows with a full band.
He feels it is like a snowball effect, when things start falling into place, with songs, a band, and then travelling to do shows.
Wardrope joined minor hockey in Carlyle and played as goalie, but the equipment was expensive, so he decided to play baseball and later joined the Moosomin Generals football team.
During this time, Wardrope always had a passion for music. He sang at open
mic’s and was involved in Prairie Country music association where he had a chance to do a recording. Although he loves all kinds of music, it is country music that he went to.
Having moved back and forth from Saskatchewan to B.C., he moved back to Mission, B.C. last June, moving in with his uncle Mike Wardrope. He has family in both
Wardrope has played in Saskatoon but another dream of his is to play at the Carlyle Fun Daze. He wants to play for his home town and looks forward to the day that this is possible.
“I want my music to bring joy to people and bring them together, through the love of music,” said Wardrope.
Judah Wardrope still calls Carlyle home, after moving to Mission British Columbia. Photo by Jonah Kirkham
February
Sun, Feb 2, 9 & 23 – Carlyle Minor Ball Pitching Clinic
Fri, Feb 14 – Redvers Legion Valentine’s Day Supper and Concert
Your rst stop to nd events happening in our community!
March
*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.
Arcola Optimist Snowmobile Rally largest in 32 years
By Stephanie Zoer
Four hundred and forty six snowmobile owners registered for the 32nd annual snowmobile rally in Arcola on January 25. This is the largest number ever registered for the event with some of the enthusiastic riders travelling from Mankato which is four hours away to enjoy the day.
The weather was nearly perfect conditions, with the sun shining and a slight breeze which had many of the riders hit-
ting the 80 kilometres of trails laid out for the event.
It takes a great deal of work to prepare the trails, and four groomer operators make sure that the trails are groomed.
Douglas Ilchuk celebrated his 70th birthday running the groomer into Arcola for the Optimist rally.
Trails are marked out, and signs are placed at the shelters if one might forget their way home. There is always a stack of wood to light a fire if you so desire.
Cell: 306-861-2200 Bus: 306-842-7333 1627 - 1st Ave. NE Weyburn, SK S4H 3E7 marcel.r@weyburndodge.ca
Things had changed up this year with Jeff Bohnert as the president of the Optimist club. Blake Brownridge stepped down after 10 years of service as the president.
Brownridge is still with the organization but is now the lieutenant Governor for Zone 8, over seeing 5 clubs in the south. He is readily available for the clubs if they have questions or concerns.
Mike Boulet is the secretary-treasurer, and he said the event went well.
Before the event began the club purchased raffle prizes and this can be anything associated with being out on a sled from suits, helmets, wood pellet stoves or boots.
The prizes are drawn when the riders come back from out on the trails.
Throughout the day, people could come to the complex, enjoy a refreshment and socialize while the kids went to the arena side to have a nerf war on the ice, and public skating.
love when people bring out their families.
During the afternoon Jacquie Walbaum from Forget entertained those who decided not to go out on the trails.
The excitement grew when it was time for the draws. Prairie Wind Recreation from Weyburn was the major sponsor this year for the vouchers.
the fixings that feed approximately 330 people.
Boulet wanted to send out a big thank you to Cathy Burton and Vanessa Dahl for all their help with the Arcola Optimist Snowmobile Rally.
Volleyball Club, S.E. Storm Volleyball Club, Moose Mountain Karate Club, Moos Mountain Wildlife, Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club and Arcola Curling Club.
A snowmobile cookie decorating contest took place, while other kids enjoyed having their faces painted, adding tinsel to their hair and later having a kid’s karaoke.
There is fun for everyone at the rally, and they
The first prize of a $20,000 voucher to Prairie Wind was won by Brian Seeman of Lampman, second prize of a $6,000 voucher went to Ken and Denise Young of Alameda, and third place of a $4,000 voucher was won by Colton Tocher of Weyburn.
Supper was a hit of pulled pork, chili and all
Months before the event tickets are handed out to organizations that are willing to sell them and the clubs receive a donation for their help.
Proceeds are going towards the following groups and projects, the Health Care recruitment committee scholarship, Mac Murray Theatre upgrades, and proceeds for new seating at the rink.
Upgrades at the Town of Arcola Play Park.
Other groups that will benefit is Vipers
Inclusion Weyburn, Lampman Legion and Arcola Figure Skating Club, Arcola Daycare, Minor Hockey Club and Lampman Travel Club will also benefit from the proceeds.
The Arcola Optimist Club would like to send out a huge thank you to all their sponsors for their support in helping to make this a successful event once again.
The Arcola Optimist Snowmobile Rally looks forward to seeing everyone next year at their 33rd annual rally.
With perfect weather conditions to ride the trails many enjoyed the 80 kilometre ride.
Photo by Stephanie Zoer
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A rollercoaster of extremes
Stephanie Zoer
Just a few words
January in Saskatchewan is nothing short of a meteorological adventure.
We live in a province where we are no strangers to weather fluctuations, but even by its own standards, January can be a wild ride, and this has proven to be true so far this year.
One day the sun can be shining warmly enough that we are lured outdoors to take a leisurely walk, and the next day it can be -30 with a bone chilling windchill that stings the face.
Saskatchewan is famous for its frigid winters, and January typically marks the heart of the cold season with average temperatures often ranging between -15 and -20 degrees Celsius and can be accompanied by extreme windchills reaching -45.
Cold snaps, often fueled by Artic air masses, can lock us in a deep freeze for days or even weeks at a time, like what happened this month.
Having just gone through a deep freeze with extremely cold warnings, it was nice that it only lasted a couple of days.
During this cold snap brings many challenges for several people. Will their vehicles start so they can get to work? Do they have to work outside and need 15 layers of clothing on to do their jobs?
I feel for the farmers during this time, as they need to feed cattle or horses, and for the animals it is not pleasant either.
Before I let our little doggies out to do their duties, I first gear up in winter clothing, let the dogs out and a minute later I need to run out and grab three legged dogs to the house.
Our dogs have all kinds of winter clothing, including boots, one of them loves the winter gear, as the other one will not move with her boots on. It is quite comical to see her try and walk in her booties.
Then, 24 hours later the temperature begins to climb, after all Saskatchewan’s January weather is not all ice and frostbite.
Occasionally, a welcome weather phenomenon sweeps across the province bringing temperatures to a more reasonable setting.
Although chinooks are more common for our neighbours in Alberta, their effects can still be felt here.
These warm, dry winds bring relief from the cold and can bring temperatures up to 10 degrees Celsius.
This up and down weather can be tough on both the body and mind.
The extreme cold saps energy, while frequent changes in the temperature and pressure can lead to headaches or fatigue.
Coupled with shorter daylight hours, it is easy to see why some people struggle with the winter blues during this time.
The unpredictable ups and downs with the temperature can play havoc with my MS, I would rather have winter stay cold and slowly warm up to spring, instead of the four days of cold and then three days of warmer weather
January is also supposed to be prime time for snowfall and coming with that, there are snowstorms and blizzards.
It does not seem like we have had a great deal of snow, but each time it snows, the winds pick up and it is a snowstorm.
What is the saying in Saskatchewan? If you do not like the weather, wait 10 minutes.
This is a true quote this month, because as I write this opinion it is very windy outside, it is snowing, and travel is not recommended on many roads.
While January in Saskatchewan can be harsh and unpredictable, it is also a defining part of prairie life.
The dramatic swings in weather are a testament to the province’s rugged climate and the resilience of the people in Saskatchewan.
Whether it is enduring frigid winds or marveling at a sudden thaw, residents know how to make the most of this rollercoaster month.
By the time January gives way to February, one thing is certain, Saskatchewan weather will always keep you guessing and it is a true prairie experience.
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”
- Nelson Mandela
What if I don’t want to do what’s good for me?
A comedian, on turning 50, said it was time for him to start acting more grown up so announced he was planning to make better choices regarding his eating habits. The day after his birthday party he was clearing out the fridge and threw away leftover fruit and veggie trays in favor of keeping the chip dips and cheesecake. He explained, “I said better choices—not healthier.”
Growing up, children sometimes grow weary of hearing someone else say they know what’s best for them. That doesn’t end when we become adults. We are on the receiving end, directly or indirectly, of all kinds of ‘this is what’s best for you’ information courtesy of financial advisors, doctors, nutritionists, lawyers, educators, scientists, politicians, and an endless list of those with advice intended to guide our decision making. Someone’s background
or expertise puts them in a position where they can offer suggestions and convince others of what’s best for them.
It lands on good ears when the advice is sought out, but when policy is created or laws enacted based on what others think is best for us, there tends to be some push back.
We know the things we should be doing when it comes to our families, our money, our diets, our physical activity level, and planning for the future. Knowing what’s best for us means we understand that the choices we make and the actions we take will impact our well-being, our current situation as well as our plans for the future. But just because we understand it doesn’t mean we necessarily do it. It’s why lawmakers in some jurisdictions have taken it upon themselves to enact legislation in the belief it is in the best interest of their citizens.
In China there is a law requiring adult children to visit their aging parents in an effort to combat the growing problem of elder loneliness. Failure to do so could result in lawsuits, fines or detainment.
Bahrain, France, Ireland, Barbados, Italy, Dominica, Chile, Singapore, Mexico, Poland, Hungary, Tonga and
many, many other countries have varying types of sugar and soda taxes with the intent that by making items high in sugar more expensive, people will purchase healthier options. The hope is it will result in better choices in the battle against obesity and diseases related to excess sugar in our diets. Some of these nations have extended the tax to high sodium items to decrease consumption of these products as well.
In 2017 Ontario amended the Highway Traffic Act to include Bill 171; known as the Phones Down, Heads Up Act to prohibit pedestrians from holding and using mobile devices while crossing a roadway. This was intended to curb distracted walking in the province and protect people who wouldn’t stop staring at their phones while crossing the street, failing to pay attention to traffic.
Legislation of this type is not always warmly welcomed, but those in charge insist it is for the general good. We will be better off because of it. It’s in our best interest.
Of course we know the importance of spending time with parents, limiting the amount of sugar we put in our bodies, and being aware enough while out walking to not be one of the 300 pedes-
trian deaths that occur in Canada each year. So if we know all this, why don’t we just do what’s best out of our own volition?
Behavioral experts say we don’t because we resist making changes, we want to avoid discomfort, and we have a tendency to put short-term pleasure over long-term benefits; that means we too often choose the easy option—even when we know it isn’t the most beneficial in the long run. Apparently we are motivated initially to do what’s good for us, but then we do the mental math. We seek to determine what it’s going to cost us and then decide whether or not we’re willing to do what’s needed based on whether or not we think it’s worth it. We shouldn’t need laws telling us who we need to visit, what we shouldn’t eat or how to be safe when crossing the street. It’s not a very good look for us, is it?
While we may not do what’s in our best interest all the time, it’s so much better if we retain the ability to make the attempt, rather than thinking someone can mandate it for us. So keep your head up, put the sugar bowl down, and go visit a loved one—because you know that’s where really good things happen. That’s my outlook.
Shelley Luedtke
Carlyle Youth Open Bonspiel was a fun weekend
By Stephanie Zoer
The Carlyle Youth Bonspiel was held on January 25 with seven senior teams and six junior teams from the southeast corner of Saskatchewan.
The bonspiel was open for grades 3-12, with the junior category for grades 3-7 and the senior group for grades 8-12.
Robin Brown was one of the coaches, and he said that all the players had a great time.
There were prizes
for the 50 curlers, raffle prizes, and a pizza supper that was sponsored by Paul Delalleau from Veren Energy. This was purely a fun event with no winners as everyone went home with something. The 50 curlers brought along lots of family and friends to cheer the teams on, making it even more fun for the teams.
Brown said there where so many teams from out of town and several of the kids could see friends from other
towns, making connections and getting together to go to similar bonspiels in neighbouring towns.
This day is all about having fun and making friends and getting to know people from outside the area.
Many local and area businesses sponsored the event, and the Carlyle group is very thankful to them for making this day possible.
A special thank you to the Carlyle Lions club for their support with the junior program.
Carlyle Cougars Powered by 306 AG end regular season with a bang
By Stephanie Zoer
The Carlyle Cougars Powered by 306 AG team was sitting in fifth place near the end of the season, but if they could win their final regular season games they could move up in the standings.
On January 18 they faced off with their second last game of the season against Wawota.
At the beginning of the game, it looked like the game was headed in the wrong direction when after the first period the Cougars were losing 3-1.
This did not sit well with the fans, and they cheered louder, but at the end of the second period they were still trailing 5-3.
In the third period the Cougars tightened their skates and came out to play, much to the happiness of the fans.
They took the win 10-7, giving the team a
chance to move up in the standings, with one game remaining on the schedule.
It was back to the ice on January 25, when the Cougars went to Wawota to finish off the season.
This was a very important game for the team, they came out strong with a 7-1 lead after the first period.
The fans were on fire and cheering on their team which seemed to spark the Cougars as they continued to blast the puck past the Wawota goal tender, bringing the score at the end of the second period 9-2.
The Cougars did not slow down in the third period and kept up the strong plays by finalizing the win with a 12-3 score, ending the season with a bang.
Coach Tyler Fleck said the team finished in third place and are now headed into the playoffs.
They will have their first game of the quarterfinals on January 31 in Carlyle against the Midale Mustangs. The Cougars love to play in front of a full house and hear the noise of the fans.
Midale is the sixthplace team, and the series is the best out of 5, with game 2 in Midale on February 1, game 3 on February 4 in Carlyle, game 4 on February 5 in Midale and game 5, if necessary, on February 11 in Carlyle.
All games will begin at 8 p.m. the exception being game 4, which will have puck drop time at 8:30 p.m.
With provincial playoffs just around the corner and season playoffs beginning, there will be lots of hockey to watch.
The Carlyle Cougars Powered by 306 AG thanks everyone for their continued support throughout the season.
Carlyle Legion provincials
Submitted by Jack Wilson
On the weekend of January 17-19 a team of curlers from the Carlyle Legion which consisted of Mike Makelki, Gerald Clark, Nedra Clark and Jack Wilson headed to the Provincial Legion Curling Championship
in Birch Hill. Darrin Simons was a spare and is a former member of the Carlyle Legion but is now a member of the Star City Legion. There were two categories that the teams could play in, the regular and the masters. Each crowns a champion. One bad shot can cost
you the chance to be Provincial Legion Champion. All and all Legion Curling is heading in the right direction with more and more teams entering into this spiel.
The Carlyle Legion came in second place in the regular category.
A great weekend was had by all.
Left to Right: Darrin Simons, Nedra Clark, Mike Makelki, Jack Wilson, Gerald Clark. Submitted by Dianne Wilson
From left, Kiera Brown, Ella Johnson, Alyssa Bee, Tiana Delalleau and Kirsten East enjoyed a fun weekend at the Carlyle Youth Bonspiel. Photo by Robin Brown
The Carlyle Senior Cougars finished their season playing two back to back games against Wawota. Photo courtesy of the Cougars
USask to Offer Nursing Education in Ten Saskatchewan Communities
“I found this to be such a great opportunity to attend the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and have access to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program right in my community of La Ronge,” says USask College of Nursing BSN student Leandra McLeod.
McLeod is completing her third year of the BSN program at the USask College of Nursing distributed nursing site in La Ronge.
Since 2012, USask College of Nursing has been offering the undergraduate BSN program at a number of locations throughout Saskatchewan.
Currently, students can complete their entire BSN degree in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, La Ronge, Île-à-la-Crosse, Yorkton, Lloydminster, North Battleford, and Muenster.
Beginning September 2025, students from Swift Current and Weyburn will also have theopportunity to complete their
Kylie Kelso, Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist, University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing entire nursing degree in their community.
“We listened to the people of Saskatchewan and over the last two years announced our expansion to four additional locations in the province where students previously did not have access to the BSN program,” said USask College of Nursing Dean Dr. Solina Richter (DCur).
“It is important our program offering is inclusive of rural and remote areas of Saskatchewan.
When the students at the distributed nursing sites complete their nursing degrees, they will help to fill unmet registered nursing workforce needs in rural Saskatchewan. We are decreasing the likelihood of these communities experiencing a registered nursing shortage, as the students will likely practice in the community once becoming licensed.”
“Becoming a nurse was something I knew I always wanted to do, but as a single mother, moving away from Prince
Albert to complete my nursing degree was not realistic,” says USask College of Nursing student Desiré Hoare, who is finishing her fourth year in the BSN program at the USask Prince Albert Campus.
Both McLeod and Hoare say the opportunity to learn where they live has been a wonderful experience.
“The small class sizes in La Ronge and the additional help you get from instructors when needed means there is a lot of one-on-one time,” says McLeod. “I would recommend the BSN program to anyone who has an interest in healthcare.”
It took McLeod six years to take the leap, but watching a number of peers go through the BSN program in La Ronge ultimately motivated her to apply.
The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven successful at distributed sites like La Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse. Since the first students en -
tered the BSN program in La Ronge and Île-àla-Crosse, 68 nursing students have completed their degree in northern Saskatchewan.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to study nursing in Prince Albert,” adds Hoare.
For more information on the University of
Saskatchewan College of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, please visit https://admissions.usask.ca/nursing. php.
University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing student Leandra McLeod from the La Ronge distributed nursing site.
Photo Credit: Megan Heyhurst Photography
Business students at Medicine Hat College
Saskatchewan Polytechnic business students transform learning into real-world success
One of the great benefits of a polytechnic education is applied learning — a method where students take what they learn in the classroom, shop or lab and apply it in a real-world setting. Instructors at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s School of Business and Entrepreneurship embrace the concept and are expanding opportunities for students to connect their program learning with partner
organizations, business and industry before they graduate.
Academic chair Kirsten Downey has been tracking applied learning initiatives in the school and is pleased to see such variety across a wide range of courses. “All of our students should have the chance to take the concepts they learn from their instructors and apply them to see actual results,” she says.
Ashley Hatley, who teaches marketing, guided her class on a market research project initiated by the City of Moose Jaw. “Students presented their findings to City of Moose Jaw representatives in early December,” reports Hatley. “The project gave students an indepth look at economic development opportunities and then allowed them to practice presenting what they learned
in front of an actual client.” Human resources instructor Genelle Payant connected her class with Thunder Creek Rehabilitation Association. Without dedicated human resources expertise, Thunder Creek’s job descriptions were out of date. Students created new job descriptions and used them to write job postings. Executive director Chad Topp was pleased with the work, saying, “The
Business pathways start at Medicine Hat College
Taylor Hicke chose Medicine Hat College (MHC) for its small size, welcoming community and proximity to his hometown of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, but the connections he made and the opportunities he had led to his decision to stay.
“The biggest highlight of my experience was the relationships I was able to build through my two years at MHC,” says the Sport & Event Marketing and Management graduate from the School of Business.
“Some of my instructors became mentors and that was a big part of my success within the program.”
MHC’s School of Business is deeply connected to Southeast Alberta, providing real world learning experiences for students across all
of its programs. In addition to specialty programs like Sport & Event Marketing and Management and Service Dog and Canine Management Studies, the school offers a robust Business Administration diploma program with majors in accounting, financial services, management and marketing, plus pathways to further education like degrees and professional designations. A diploma in Administrative Office Management and certificate options for Administrative Office Professional, Advanced Accounting, Intermediate Accounting and Marketing (new for Fall 2025) are also available.
As Taylor discovered, students in MHC’s School of Business don’t just study. They engage in immersive experiences, learn directly
from seasoned industry professionals, delve into real company case studies, and, in select programs, participate in transformative workplace integrated learning. For Taylor, that meant hands-on group work to create marketing campaigns for local businesses, provide support for sporting events, and fundraise for community causes.
Now Taylor is putting his education to work as a member of the marketing team at South Country Coop’s Business Support Centre.
“My studies at MHC really prepared me for my career and everything I am doing on a daily basis like marketing plans, sponsorship and graphic design,” says Taylor. He also continues in his role as basketball game night lead for Rattlers Athletics, util-
izing his event management skills and keeping him connected to MHC.
“We’re here to help students discover their passions,” adds Dr. Morgan Blair, dean of the School of Business and Continuing Studies. ”Through rigorous coursework, networking opportunities, and enriching extracurricular activities, students cultivate the professional they aspire to become. Connected. Confident. Capable. When you enroll with us, you’re not just starting a course or program – you’re launching your career.”
Get started today! Visit www.mhc.ab.ca/welcomeSK.
ideas and drafts we received helped us to make attractive and enticing postings. We had been using job descriptions as postings, and this project helped us understand how the two are different and what makes for a great job posting.”
Payant notes she has done similar exercises in the past but this was the first time working with a real organization. “Knowing they were working with an actual client made it exciting for the students as they knew they had to deliver,” she explains.
Instructor Megan Moulding’s business insurance students had an opportunity to work with Saskatchewan Insurance Professionals. Students took turns staging a social media takeover, where they created videos about an insurance-related topic or about themselves and why they chose insurance, then posted them to the organization’s social pages. “The students really enjoyed the assignment and used a lot of creativity,” shares Moulding.
The results were impressive, with one takeover post generating more than 1,000 impressions and the daily average for all student posts close to 550. “For a small or-
ganization, that’s real reach,” says Moulding.
Practicing what you have learned by doing it before entering the workforce is key to making connections, notes Downey. Some opportunities are part of instructors’ curriculum and others are addon opportunities that require students to apply.
Two students specializing in Sport Management were selected to travel to the 2024 Grey Cup Festival in Vancouver, where they assisted with the Sask Polytech and Canadian Football League’s Player Association (CFLPA) partnership activation. Robyn Dutertre and Joshua Grant helped with a kickoff party STO24-110 Applied learning in business story where they had the chance to connect with CFL alumni and other attendees. Instructor Chelsea Jones says it was a great opportunity to work with a sports organization of that calibre. Dutertre agrees, “Our trip to work with the CFLPA deepened our understanding of the sports industry and provided practical insights that will benefit our future.”
For more information visit saskpolytech.ca/business.
Alameda Beef 4H club teams qualify for Provincials
Submitted by Heather Tober
On the weekend of January 24 and 25, East Region 4H curling playoffs were held in Lumsden and Bethune. To qualify for this weekend, teams needed to finish in first place at District bonspiels, held earlier this month, across the province. The senior and junior teams from Alameda Beef Club won at the District 41 bonspiel held in Oxbow on January 3.
Regionals were a double knockout format, with eight senior teams and six junior teams competing. East clubs represented at the bonspiel included Benson Beef (jr), Wawota/ Whitewood Beef (jr and sr), Springside Beef (jr), Foam Lake Beef (jr),Serath Multiple (jr and sr), Cymri Beef (sr), Pangman/Ogema Beef (sr), Goodeve Multiple (sr), Hillside/McQuibe Multi-
ple (sr), Sheho Beef (sr). and Alameda Beef (jr and sr)
Alameda’s senior team went undefeated – winning all four of their games and qualifying for provincials as A-side winners. Friday night, with zero visibility on the highways and two accidents between Regina and Lumsden, High-
way 11 was temporarily closed, leaving many of the players unable to get to the bonspiel. Alameda’s seniors ended up playing their first two games in Lumsden with just three players.
In the junior division most Friday night games were postponed due to the highway closure. This made Saturday in
Bethune a busy one! Alameda’s juniors had a less direct path to qualifying than the seniors did. They won their first two games but lost to Wawota/Whitewood in an exciting A-side final that went to extra ends and came down to the last rock. They played (and won) three more games after that loss and were
named B-side champions.
The senior team consisted of Skip Dylan Frey (Oxbow), 3rd Joran Frey (Oxbow), 2nd Addison Hammermeister (Alameda), Lead Katelyn Rutten (Carlyle) and Spare Rachel Tober (Oxbow). The Junior team members were Skip Bryn Chapman (Carlyle), 3rd
Stoughton Lions donate to help youth lm camp
By Stephanie Zoer
The Stoughton Lions Club is always looking for ways to raise funds to better the community they live in, and that has continued recently.
Last October the club decided to hold a 50/50 draw, selling tickets to raise funds that they were going to donate to an organization in Stoughton.
This is their second year of doing this, but they also have done a reverse draw and spa packages which have gone very well.
three teams from each age group from the regional competition qualify for the Provincial competition in Yorkton February 14-16.
The club decided that the proceeds from the 50/50 were to be donated to the Stoughton Community Players to help with the youth film camp.
Danielle Hoffman, treasurer for the Stoughton Community Players, was on hand to receive a cheque for $1,700.
She said that some of the funds will go towards the youth film camp this summer, to be held the week of August 11.
Last year they had 10 youth attend the camp, which cost $1,500.
This year they hope to open up the camp to 15
IN USE DE QUIP MENT
youth, which will cost a little more, but there will also be more help, and these funds will certainly come in handy.
During the week of the camp, the youth produced a story line, they created the lines, made props and costumes, selected who was in charge of each part. It was then filmed and edited, and the film was played before an audience at the Stoughton Curling Rink. This was all done within one week.
They also had items stored in a C-can which leaked, and now some of their props and stage walls have been damaged due to moisture and need to be replaced, so some of the money will go towards that.
As for the Lions club, they will have an announcement soon on another draw in the near future.
Fallyn Shier (Oxbow), 2nd Dane Tober (Oxbow), Lead Marlee Gervais (Alida) and Spare Bryler Franken (Glen Ewen). Franken is a member of the Carnduff Beef Club. The top
Junior team - L to R, Bryn Chapman, Fallyn Shier, Dane Tober, Marlee Gervais, Bryler Franken
Senior team - L to R, Rachel Tober, Katelyn Rutten, Addison Hammermeister, Joran Frey, Dylan Frey
From left, Stoughton Lions member Kim Coderre presents a cheque for $1,700 to Danielle Ho man from the Stoughton Community Players Board. Photo by Lynn Young
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Carndu – A ‘Seasonal Big City’
By Paul Kimball
Traffic circles (or roundabouts, as they are also called) have been used for almost 250 years. Perhaps the most famous one is located in Paris, the Place de L’Etoile, that encircles the Arc de Triomphe. Roundabouts came to North America in the 1790’s, but when the horse and buggy era
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ended and the increased speed of the automobile age arrived (and the subsequent accidents), they were mostly phased out in the 1950’s.
But with some tweaking, they returned a decade later. By 1970, most large cities were using them again…and they’re used more and more as cities plan their traffic flow. It might even be argued that traffic circles are evidence that a city has arrived! Is Carnduff on the verge of becoming one of those big cities? Well, if you’re traveling through town at the right time of winter, you might think so! Traffic circles can be found periodically at various intersections. Before getting too far ahead of ourselves, it must be noted that the roundabouts disappear almost as quickly as they come into being. You
Snow pile in the town of Carndu
see, the traffic circles are made of snow. Town workers clear the streets by pushing the snow into the intersections. Before too long, a frontend loader and a dump truck converge to take it away. But for an hour or two – or maybe even a bit longer – that snow
sits in the middle of the intersection and Carnduff ’s traffic drives around it. In the same way that vehicles drive around those big-city roundabouts. Carnduff may look big with its traffic circles, but they’re here today… gone tomorrow. And only in the winter!
Bob and Auntie Joyce Skuce and Families
U18 Cougars win first game in provincial playoffs
By Stephanie Zoer
Kirk Himmelspach is the coach of the U18 Cougars and he is pleased with how his team played at the first provincial playoff game.
Himmelspach has been coaching this graduating group for 10 years and he said they played a particularly good defensive game, keeping everything outside and took advantage of the power plays.
The Cougars played game one of round one in the provincial playoffs on January 23 in Carlyle against the Whitewood Elks.
They had a large crowd to play for at the home game and showed the spectators that they were there to play hockey, which they did.
Taking the lead early in the game, and never letting up, they blasted the puck past the Elks goalie six times to take a 6-0 win.
“Our penalty kill was excellent,” said Himmelspach. “It was an all around solid game
for us.”
They have three games left in their regular season and are sitting in fourth place with a 12-5 record. Playoffs for the league will begin near the end of February.
January 25, they had their showdown against Radville and had a tough lose against them losing 5-3.
Himmelspach said they have three tough games left and if they win them all it could move them up a little, possibly to third place.
He has a lot of memories with this graduating team, with a win in 2017 for the U11 MMMHL Championship, and in 2022 they went to the south Finals in U15 provincials.
They have made it to league finals many times and once they were canceled early due to COVID. He feels that they have had a highly successful run in minor hockey.
There is still a lot of hockey to play and game two for provincials will be played on January 29 in Whitewood.
OMFN’s Justin Holness nominated for SaskMusic Award
By Stephanie Zoer
Justin Holness moved back home to the prairies where his ancestors on his mother’s side have existed since time, and returning to Ocean Man First Nation (OMFN) is extremely sentimental to him.
Holness was raised in St. Vital, Manitoba and at the rebellious age of seventeen began to write music. It was around the same time that he moved out on his own, to a neighbourhood that was known for rivalry gangs. He tried to stay safe but had many encounters with the gangs.
He had a gun pointed directly at him point blank and Holness has lost friends to the streets, but he got out when he realized he had a brother. Holness wanted to change his life and be a better example for his brother and family.
Music was an outlet that helped him with his personal life struggles, and he began recording songs on his own, but he knew that improving his production skills would be necessary to break into the music industry.
The first song that hit Winnipeg Radio was On the Grind, and he has continued to write ever since.
Also, at this time he received a contract working for the First National Event for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada regarding residential school survivors. Many of his family members were
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Service Schedule: Sunday morning Service 10:30 a.m.
Jesus Still Heals Today Wed. evening Bible Study 7:30 p.m 306-453-2512
residential school victims including his grandmothers.
These two events in Holness’ life changed everything for him and he wanted to become a professional person.
Holness moved to Ottawa in 2010 to start over, it was also the place his mother lived.
After working hard for two years and saving, Holness was able to buy a condominium. He was in the Canadian Forces Military through the Black Bear Program for Indigenous recruits and Holness was awarded the top candidate and the camaraderie awards.
He began to work as an Indigenous Youth diversion coordinator working with young people who conflicted with the law at the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health.
Eventually he went full time entrepreneur before getting a job as an Indigenous Business Development Manager right before COVID hit.
The whole time he was in Ottawa he started performing and winning at local talent contests at Indigenous Festivals, but he was also touring across the country becoming a national artist.
During COVID Holness decided he wanted to be closer to his first nations community and enrolled at the First Nation University of Canada to improve his qualifications and credentials in economic development and business.
In 2019 he had his first hit record called Woke reaching number one on the Indigenous Music countdown and got nominated at the Indigenous Music Awards for best hip hop album of the year.
Recently, he received a second hit record named Wastewana reaching number one on the Indigenous Music countdown in 2024.
In the last few months, Holness was nominated at the Native American Music Awards for the Best Hip Hop recording and the Best R and B recording. This will be announced later this year.
Holness has also been nominated for a SaskMusic Award for Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the year; the event takes place on March 2.
“My plans going forward are to work and serve my community of Ocean Man First Nation,” said Holness. “I will continue to learn and grow my entrepreneurial endeavours and help teach the next generation about wealth creation.”
Once Holness has his certificate in Indigenous Economic Development and an Indigenous Business Administration diploma he will make OMFN home.
“Receiving this nomination at the SaskMusic Awards for me represents the hard work and dedication in making a difference,” Holness said.
To create music in his traditional territory and for it to be recognized by the community is a fulfilling experience for Holness.
“I intentionally create music as an offering to empower the welfare of people and the planet,” he said.
Church of Our Lady, Carlyle
Father Chris Juchacz
Pastor Rodney & Gail Cox Arcola-Kisbey United Church Worship Times: 10 a.m.
Carlyle: Sunday at 11 a.m.
Kenosee: Saturday at 5 p.m
Forget: Sunday at 9 a.m. 306-453-6200
KISBEY: 1st & 3rd Sunday
ARCOLA: 2nd, 4th & 5th
The U18 Cougars have three games left in the regular season. Photo courtesy of Carlyle Minor Hockey
Justin Holness feels his nomination for a SaskMusic Award is an acknowledgement of his offerings of positive community and social impact.
Photo by Gin Ouskun Photography
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