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Estevan Salvation Army navigated through the COVID storm with help of the community By Ana Bykhovskaia

abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

The Salvation Army knows a thing or two about tough times, as it’s aimed at helping people through their life storms. The quarantine and global economic difficulties made them summon up all their strength to ensure that everyone who asks for help in the Estevan area gets it no matter what the new day brings. The Estevan Salvation Army has been open throughout the past almost three months, but now, as Saskatchewan is approaching Phase 3 of reopening, the organization is slowly getting back to providing more services to their clients. Their thrift store, located on Fourth Street, is now open with shelves filled at 60 per cent and other changes in place. Director of ministr y Ronza Reynard talked about what people can expect. “ What customers are

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going to notice when they come in right away, there is a ... (display) in our building that has a few sets of (general COVID-related) rules that they need to follow,” said Reynard. They strongly ask people to physical distance and follow the arrows on the floor as in most other stores. The shelves will look emptier, but only to ensure there is less

touching and handling. They are allowed to let up to 14 customers in at a time and staff will be monitoring the situation inside. “People will see more staff on the floor interacting. We will have hand sanitizer, gloves available for people when they come in if they choose to use these things. And we’ve got our Plexiglas shields up at the till, so we can

have the no-contact service that way,” said Reynard. She added that while some regulations they follow are similar to what other stores do, other things are a bit different since it’s a thrift store and most of the items they sell are used. Donations are being accepted again, but all newly brought pieces have to be set aside for three days before they

can be displayed at the store. Although they couldn’t accept anything for a while, Reynard said they still have lots for people to choose from. The staff now won’t spend time arranging new items at the store throughout the day as they did before. Instead, they will put the new inventory out daily during the after-hours, which will allow them A2 » FOOD

SECPSD sad to not have traditional grad celebrations, but has to follow guidelines abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

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Estevan Salvation Army’s Thrift Store is now open again following the safety precauations. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

The annual tradition of grad has come to the southeast. And while the banners appeared on many lawns or light posts in different areas of the province, no real graduation ceremonies are to happen this year. The Mercury reached out to Lynn Little, South East Cornerstone Public School Division (SECPSD) director of education, to talk about what we can expect to see in the next few weeks. Little pointed out that the recent decisions they had to make were as heartbreaking to them as to students and their families. “The board and the staff, both as an entity and as individuals ... are also disappointed and sad that we are unable to make provisions

for traditional graduation ceremonies where students can be recognized and honoured in person. However, unfortunately, with realities of COVID-19 being a highly transmissible disease, the state of emergency and the guidelines that we were provided, any events where a gathering of people would occur was just not possible,” said Little. SECPSD delayed a final direction until as late as possible, as they were hoping that the provincial COVID-19 situation and subsequent recommendations and directions would ease. Unfortunately, that has not happened. “We recognize that this is a very disheartening and discouraging time when it should be a time for celebration,” said Little. While the province is

only in Phase 2 of re-opening, schools and communities in SECPSD have been given the option to choose to hold a virtual graduation ceremony this spring, and/ or to opt to postpone the celebration until a later date when restrictions are lifted. Little noted that they’ve been hearing from disappointed parents and communities, however, at this time there was no way to have a face to face graduation, and most people understand. “Communities had some questions, but generally people do understand the restrictions and the challenges. And we would just like to invite all to join us in working together with the schools to do our best with the guidelines, within the guidelines, and to make graduation as special and memorable as possible,” said

Little. If schools are choosing to plan for a virtual graduation ceremony, they must adhere to the current provincial safety protocols, practising physical distancing and discouraging anything that might result in or encourage a larger gathering. To ensure that there are no gatherings, there will not be access to schools inside or out to allow for photo or video re-creation of the ceremony. The schools will remain closed. It’s left up to students and families to ensure that they are following the guidelines, and even if they stop by their schools, no big gatherings occur. SECPSD could not permit the shaking of hands and receipt of diplomas from principals. The schools will decide how to distribute the diplomas to graduates after-

wards, depending on the size of the graduating class and their practices. “It ’s a determination best in the hands of the school. Whatever they decide to do, they will be adhering to the guidelines and they will adhere to safe distribution.” There are no particular regulations or scenarios for virtual graduations. “Each one will look a little bit different. Each community school will bring in its own flavour and own traditions to the event,” said Little. “Many schools are working to ensure that the items that they have had in the past are included in the virtual format.” Schools are still planning to have valedictorian speeches, toasts, introductions and greetings of the grads all happening online. A2 »COMMUNITIES

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Communities do their best to recognize grads « A1 “The staff is really intent on doing all they can to facilitate a really awesome graduation ceremony … Some are using a platform that is already available, some are looking at some video production. So there is a variety of different pieces that are being considered at each school.” Not all schools have made a decision. Little said that as of the last week of May, about half a dozen schools chose to postpone their graduations until later. Some haven’t decided, but many proceeded to preparations for virtual graduations and community recognitions. “ There is a number of things that schools … and communities are doing in support of the gradu-

ates, and probably many see these pieces that are up and around,” said Little. The most common initiatives include electronic boards, digital or regular signs with grads’ pictures and names. Some communities had banners on the streets or highways. The Mercury and other local newspapers publish pictures of students to recognize their achievements. Local businesses also came up with a variety of supportive displays. Social media is being used to celebrate this milestone in local youths’ lives. But schools went further than that. “One school is looking at setting a special table at the 2021 graduation banquet to recognize this year’s grads,” said Little.

The guidelines letter sent to parents last week stated that the board “cannot authorize a parade, car rally or drive-in theatre event, (as they) must conduct the ceremony virtually without contact.” Little explained that initially, that decision came from the chief medical officer, so SECPSD delivered that information to parents. However, later there was an update that still strongly recommends that wherever and whenever possible, people should substitute any inperson activities with virtual graduation options, but it was eased a little. “That is still the ultimate recommendation. But if communities are looking at recognizing (students) by doing a car parade or

driving events, there is a list of (recommendations at the Government of Saskatchewan website). They are very stringent as one can expect during this time,” said Little. “We regret that we are unable to provide a different direction but ultimately we must adhere to the guidelines that are put in place for all of us to ensure safety,” said Little in a letter to parents. She assured that all SECPSD staff will follow all precautionary measures and all the guidelines as they’ve been doing for almost three months. After all, the graduation ceremony in any format is a celebration of students, and Little wished the grads all the best in their lives.

Lynn Little “We want to absolutely congratulate all the graduates and their families on their accomplishments. It’s unfortunate that we are where we are at in so many ways right now, but in terms

of their accomplishments, that can never be taken away from them. All the best to them in the future. We wish them luck and look forward to the great things that they’ll do for us,” said Little.

Food bank is having its busiest times since March « A1 more time to clean and help customers. All the jewellery will be behind counters for now, and staff will help customers browse it. The same will happen to toys. “A lot of people, when they come into our store, their children run right to the toy section. That’s got to stop. And it’s part of the rules, if you are bringing children into the store they need to be with you at all times,” said Reynard.

The change room will be open with regular cleaning in place. But they are asking people to focus on what they intend to buy and try not to touch too many items, as all pieces they touch but didn’t buy will have to go into a three-day quarantine before they can go back out on the shelves. “At the end of the day, there is pretty big cleaning that has to be done. That’s why we have our store closing at 4 o’clock every day,”

said Reynard, adding that the staff will be there for another two hours just to clean and disinfect the building and the inventory. While the thrift store was closed for a while, the food bank probably experienced its busiest times throughout its history. Demand for May was over 50 per cent higher than last year and even higher than April. The Salvation Army was anticipating it to be busier, because a lot

of people may have had some extra money in April with the introduction of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit that at that time was often retroactive for March as well. The extra GST cheque also helped the situation. However, by the end of spring, a lot of families found themselves in need of more support. Fortunately, since the beginning of the pandemic, the Estevan Salvation Army has been receiving a lot of donations

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from organizations and individuals in the community. They are doing most of their shopping themselves trying to balance between stretching their dollar a little further and shopping locally to support the community. Reynard keeps saying that if people want to donate, they can do it in any way that works for them, and the Salvation Army is equally happy to see food or cheques coming in, as it helps them do their job. “It’s really nice that we are getting this support and we were able to serve over 300 people this (past) month alone,” said Reynard. T h e s h e l ve s a t t h e food bank are definitely not as full as they were after Christmas, but so far with the community support, the Salvation Army has been handing the demand pretty well. And even though it’s been busy, they were able to keep up with it and plan to stick to the operation they have in place now going forward. “It’s been steady. And we do it differently now,” said Reynard. “Even when we reopen, the food bank is going to continue the same way it has during this whole COVID-19.” If someone wants to access the food bank they need to phone in for an appointment, as the Salvation Army is still trying to limit the number of physical contacts. The Estevan Salvation Army again opened its doors to Envision Counselling and Support Centre’s walk-in clinics on Wednesdays and Thursdays. They also went on with their volunteer income tax program until the end of May, helping people to prepare their taxes.

The seniors’ lunch that was introduced earlier this year and was put on pause at the very beginning of the pandemic will remain on hold for the rest of the season due to seniors’ susceptibility to the virus and also restrictions on gatherings. The organization will reevaluate it come September and October, considering recommendations from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the government as well as the Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters. “We found it to be successful, so we are hoping to continue this... in the fall.” With no summer camps planned this year, the Salvation Army isn’t fundraising towards sending kids anywhere. But the Canada Post food drive so far is still a go, however, no dates were set for it yet. “They are willing to do another food drive. They just need to wait on their end for Canada Post to give them the authorization to do it.” More details will be announced when they become available. Reynard also said they know that times are tough for everybody, which makes every donation even more valuable. Even though the Estevan Salvation Army still keeps alternating their hours and is currently closed on Mondays, their main goal is to keep staff and customers safe and remain open. “We are just excited to get our store open and have some of our customers back in there, see some of the faces we haven’t seen in the last two and a half months. It’s been a long couple of months,” said Reynard.

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Estevan resident returns home after working on the COVID front lines at a busy Boston hospital By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Katie Bell says she has never seen anything like what she saw working for two months at a busy Boston hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. She had been a nurse pr actitioner dur ing the H1N1 pandemic in 2009-10, and she worked at the busiest hospital in the city following the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. But it has all been surpassed by the activity caused by COVID-19. “I’ve never seen such illness in all of my career,” she said in an interview with the Mercury last week while in quarantine, just days after returning to Estevan. But she did see some good things emerge while working in Boston. Bell resides in Estevan most of the year and works as a registered nurse in the emergency room at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She is also a nurse injector at Diamond Skin Solutions. But she was born and raised in Boston, and came to Estevan a few years ago to be with her fiancée Brian Senchuk. She has worked as an acute care nurse practitioner who specializes in critical care in the U.S., and spent 15 years at the Boston Medical Centre – a 550-bed hospital. “I received a call in early March that the situation in Boston was heating up, and that they were in dire straits, and that they needed help,” she said in an interview with the Mercury. Prior to COVID-19’s outbreak, she said they had projected the number of COVID patients, and expected it would be an “all hands on deck” situation to try to help these intensive care unit (ICU) patients. “My bosses at St. Joseph’s Hospital were very gra-

cious and they allowed me to take a leave of absence so that I could go and work back in my old ICU as a nurse practitioner in Boston,” she said. Her boss at Diamond Skin Solutions, Kelly McConnell, was also supportive. Bell was in Boston from March 19-May 19. There was a lot of anxiety about going to work in Boston, because there were reports of healthcare professionals becoming ill and a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE). Bell and her fellow workers would be working long shifts for several days in a row. She couldn’t even stay with her mother, because her mom is at a high-risk of COVID-19. So Bell stayed with a friend who is a physician at the hospital. “Our ICU typical patient loads every day quadrupled. We typically have three medical ICU teams, a surgical ICU team, a neurocritical care ICU team and a cardiac ICU team, and we had to double our teams, just to try to be able to take care of these patients.” Most patients required a breathing tube, and many ultimately had to be sedated or chemically paralyzed. They also had to be positioned in certain ways to help with oxygenation. Some of the health care providers became ill as well. PPE included two gowns, two masks, four pairs of gloves, welder’s shields and a cap, making it tough to care for a patient. Her nose is still bruised, her forehead is soft from all the headgear needed and her hands bleed from using Purell so much. People from other states were calling her and other team members because there was such a shortage of ICUtrained people who could manage the severity and complexity of the illness. Nurse practitioners had

to perform ICU triage, so any patients who may require ICU admission had to go through them. “We had to go to the floors and assess all these patients … and we ultimately were the ones who decided who got the limited number of ICU beds. So there was a tremendous feeling of guilt if you didn’t allot a bed to somebody, because you thought they were beyond help,” said Bell. If there was a 30-yearold patient and an 80-yearold patient, the 30-year-old always received the bed, leaving the healthcare workers with a horrible feeling. But she was quick to add she has never seen such teamwork. “Everyone threw themselves in trying to help these patients,” she said. “Most times it was futile, but we did everything we could to try to help these people.” Nurse practitioners had to help run an ICU team, and they had to bring a “plethora” of different types of specialties on their team. Since a lot of elective surgeries weren’t going on, there were surgical residents who came to help in her medical ICU. Procedures inc luded putting in central venous catheters, arterial lines to monitor blood pressure, and kidney dialysis lines even though some had no kidney problems before contracting COVID. Many generous companies donated items such as gowns and face shields, schools supplied materials they could, and businesses provided food. And the hospital staff found ways for patients to interact with their families, even though they couldn’t have visitors. There were FaceTime family meetings and visitations with patients. If someone was nearing end

Katie Bell with her fiancée, Brian Senchuk of Estevan. Photo submitted

of life, one visitor was allowed in to be with them. “I can say that no patient died alone. Every patient had a nurse or one of us with them, so that they would know that someone cared for them,” said Bell. So many people were supportive, but she encountered so much fear that it created isolation. Some called her dangerous or dirty when she was outside the hospital, which was the most challenging and hurtful part. As of Monday afternoon, Massachusetts had 96,965 confirmed cases, and 6,846 deaths, leaving it fifth in the U.S. for case load. It was rewarding to have been part of this, Bell said, and she knows she made the right decision to go down there, but it came at a cost to herself, her fiancée and her loved ones. And she doubts that anyone who worked through this will ever be the same. She wants people to realize that COVID-19 is a serious situation. Estevan and other communities haven’t experienced the surge of COVID-19 cases seen elsewhere – there have only been 17 in the south region as of Monday. “But there are places that have been so impacted by this. It is real, and it’s very scary. A lot of the patients that we saw were normal people. They maybe had a little high blood pressure, and maybe were a little overweight. But as a whole, they were relatively healthy

Estevan’s Katie Bell was recently working in the intensive care unit of a busy hospital in Boston, helping to treat those diagnosed with COVID-19. Photo submitted people, and they succumbed to this virus. Bell said it feels good to be home. A week before returning to Canada, she took a COVID-19 test, because she wanted to ensure the people around her were safe. The test came back negative. And both she and Senchuk have been in quarantine since she returned home. “It’s been really nice just to have this time together, and to work on our house projects and things like that.” They were supposed

to be married a couple of weeks ago, but that had to be rescheduled due to the pandemic – an experience many other couples have encountered. But they have a new date set and they’re looking forward to the big day. Bell will be back to work at St. Joseph’s Hospital on June 11, and she’ll be back to work at Diamond Skin Solutions on June 8 when the business is allowed to be open again as part of Phase 3 of the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan.

Katie Bell, left, with fellow ICU workers at the hospital in Boston. Photo submitted

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Published weekly by Prairie Newspaper Group Limited Partnership, 68 Souris Avenue N., Estevan, SK S4A 2M3.The Estevan Mercury is owned and operated by Prairie Newspaper Group Limited Partnership, a subsidiary of Glacier Media Inc. Advertising rates are available upon request and are subject to change without notice. Conditions of editorial and advertising content: The Estevan Mercury attempts to be accurate in Editorial and Advertising content; however, no guarantee is given or implied. The Estevan Mercury reserves the right to revise or reject any or all editorial and advertising content as the newspaper’s principals see fit. The Estevan Mercury will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of an advertisement, and is not responsible for errors in advertisements except for the space occupied by such errors. The Estevan Mercury will not be responsible for manuscripts, photographs, negatives and other related material that may be submitted for possible publication. All of the Estevan Mercury’s content is protected by Canadian Copyright laws. Reviews and similar mention of material in this newspaper is granted on the provision that The Estevan Mercury receives credit. Otherwise, any reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. Advertisers purchase space and circulation only. Rights to any advertisement produced by The Estevan Mercury, including artwork, typography, photos, etc., remain the property of this newspaper. Advertisements or parts thereof may not be reproduced or assigned without the consent of the publisher. We acknowledge financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l'appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

EDITORIAL

Mining is essential to our community Each year we celebrate Saskatchewan Mining Week. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the impact the mining industry has on this province and our economy. Normally there would be events and luncheons in different communities that celebrate the industry. And there would be the culmination of Mining Week with the Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition, which shows a different component of the abilities that these miners have. Mining Week will have a different look this year, as like so many other events in the community, it’s going virtual for the activities and luncheons. The mine rescue competition is cancelled, but the dedicated mine rescue team members are still practising so that they’re ready if their skills are needed. This year’s theme of Mining: Essential to Local and Global Communities still rings true. We’ll hear a lot about potash and uranium, and for good reason; Saskatchewan is a world leader in the production of both minerals. But there is so much more to mining in Saskatchewan beyond those two commodities, including coal. Despite the objections of some, coal is still a big part of mining in this province. Critics call it dirty. But it’s also a consistently reliable source of electricity. Coal-fired power isn’t reliant on the sun or wind. It’s not prone to wild cost fluctuations like natural gas. When it comes to a source of baseload power, coal is still the safest bet. We can’t plan to use it as a means to

produce power like we have in the past; conventional coal causes too many emissions, and within the next decade, conventional coal likely won’t be a source of power in Canada. But we’ve seen that carbon capture and storage does work, that it can eliminate most of the emissions associated with coal power, and still keep this fuel source in the equation. It will just be in a different way than what it did in the past. Carbon capture and storage should be the solution to keep mining essential to this local community and other communities in the southeast region. And given the environmental benefits of carbon capture and storage, it allows mining to be essential to global communities. Mining is also a source of jobs for people and enormous economic benefits for communities and for provinces, for our country and our world. In the case of coal mining, critics say that we can just phase it out, and send those who work in the mines to be retrained so they can work at other jobs. Green jobs. What they don’t realize is the source of pride that miners take in their job. Critics also don’t realize that coal miners recognize the value of what they do for this province. Miners know they are responsible for getting a product to market that allows the rest of us to turn the lights on, run our air conditioners in the summer, heat our homes in the winter and plug in our vehicles when it’s -40 C outside.

The hundreds of people who work in the mines in the Estevan area are hard-working people who earn their wages. They’re wellpaid, but they’re doing important work, and they’re doing it with a great emphasis on safety while heeding environmental regulations. These people are volunteering in their community and involved with organizations and doing their part to make this area better. If you live in the Estevan area, and you don’t think your life is enriched by the mines, then you’re wrong. Take the mines out of the picture, and there would be a hit to every part of the community. We’d have fewer people living here, fewer students in our schools and less money circulating our community. We’d have fewer businesses, and the business that would remain would have fewer customers. Mining is essential to our community. We’re not the only community to reap the economic spinoffs of mining, either. The royalties from mining are also a big part of the province’s economy. Mining, much like agriculture and the oil and gas sector, plays a big role in our success. During the past few months, there has been a lot of talk about essential services and who should fit into that category and who doesn’t. There’s hasn’t been enough talk about how mining is essential. But it is. For us in the southeast, we know while there is a Saskatchewan Mining Week each year, we need to treat every week as Mining Week.

Was there a point in closing rural ERs? The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) has been taking harsh criticism since they announced they would be closing rural emergency rooms in preparation of a COVID-19 surge. Which would have made more sense if most of Saskatchewan had not been doing so well in the positive case department. When the SHA initially released their modelling for COVID-19 preparation and planning, it shocked the public. The modelling, which the SHA said was there for “worst case scenarios”, said on the highend Saskatchewan could see up to 15,000 deaths. That number, whether worst case scenario or not, is more than enough to scare people. It was during their presentation of their COVID-19 Readiness Plan in early April, in the section related to “integrated rural health”, they said they would temporarily convert some hospitals to support alternative level of care patients over the next four to six weeks, meaning early to mid May. By the time mid-May came around, we were in the midst of phase two of the province’s ReOpen Saskatchewan Plan. The announcement the SHA was continuing on with their plan to “temporarily convert” rural emergency rooms just didn’t make sense. It shocked many living in rural communities, wondering what this means if something went wrong. It was a good worry to have because COVID-19 or not, you just never know when you’ll need an emergency room. If the province had seen the numbers some others have had over the course of COVID-19

Jordan Stricker Postcards from the Leg.

hitting Canada, these measures would make sense. The fact the SHA was planning ahead meant they were taking this seriously, which is good. But to strike fear into the public and convert these emergency rooms when the demand just wasn’t there was unnecessary. I don’t think they planned on having such a harsh reaction to their temporary conversions. Some areas that were closed said they were given less than 24 hours to shut down and convert. SHA CEO Scott Livingstone said during a press conference the announcement was made weeks ago, and they do this sort of thing all of the time. That is true. There was a Freedom of Information Act document released by the New Democratic Party which showed in fact, these sorts of shutdowns, although usually a lot shorter, do happen. Regardless of whether the SHA felt they had been transparent and gave the public notice, they came up short and felt the wrath of the public for going ahead with their plans. Only a few weeks into their conversion plans the SHA announced they would start reopening rural emergency rooms starting June 15. Both

Livingstone and Health Minister Jim Reiter said this was the plan the whole time. It just seems like a far cry to announce the shut down of 12 emergency rooms for a few weeks. You can’t help but think public pressure had something to do with them announcing the plan for reopening. Both Reiter and Premier Scott Moe took responsibility in saying communication could have been done better. That sentiment has been mentioned a few times over the course of the COVID-19 crisis. It is fair to say no one knew how to operate in times like these. Most of us have never faced something this intense and widespread. But making decisions that scare the public and possibly put rural lives at risk for a plan that no longer seems sufficient is something the SHA has hopefully learned from. Angry citizens planned a rally which would take place outside of the Saskatchewan Legislature, with hundreds expected to attend to fight the SHA’s decision to go ahead with the plan. Whether or not the announcement to reopen will be enough to send protesters away remains to be seen. The SHA will reopen the Arcola emergency room on June 15. Whether or not the remaining emergency rooms will be open swiftly remains to be seen. The SHA has not yet given timelines as to when they will be reopened. Hopefully, they act quickly and no one in rural communities has to suffer because they have nowhere to go when they need help the most.

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Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About…

Got rocks? I will roll City girl, a while ago I got myself married into farming. After a few years of adjustment to the new lifestyle, rolling became my specialty. I probably don’t fully fit into the city girl skin anymore, but I haven’t become a real farmer yet either. So when I first was offered to do some rolling at the farm, I had no idea what they were talking about. Just in case you are not much into farming, a quick note: every year rocks come from the depth of the Earth to the surface. During seeding, air drills pull them out. Bigger boulders usually need to be picked up, while everything smaller than a football gets punched back into the dirt with the help of a massive roller pulled by a tractor. A beautiful front wheel assist John Deere I was introduced to was so smart that even then still-a-city-girl could operate it (it was pretty much doing everything by itself ). My brother-in-law, born and raised at the farm, was the one to train me. My session lasted about 15 minutes. “That’s how you start it, that’s how you put it in gear, set the speed and that’s how you set GPS. If you see a big rock, pick it up, if the bucket is full, dump it.” And off I went. I remember working my first field as if it was yesterday. I was rolling four quarters of pretty flat land, all lined up, with a few slews and a couple of hills on the edge. I was one-on-one with that field, and at that point, rolling rocks felt more like a light adventure, which I ended up really liking. With each time I went up and down the field, my confidence was growing. It took me a few days, but I got it done. By that time, I felt proud and already pretty professional. I was a real farmer doing my part during seeding. Unfortunately, I forgot that the city was still a part of me. The four quarters were done. Brother-in-law moved me to the next field and said, “Watch out, there is a fence around it and a phone post in the middle. Don’t come close to any, we’ll roll there for you after.” Every single member of the family felt obligated to stop by or call me to say, “Hey watch out, there is a phone post in that field.” But I felt that I was a pro by then, I already had rolled four quarters, they trusted me with that and I didn’t fail. I felt I knew what I was doing and off I went. Side note, I like getting work done properly. So when I started rolling the outer circles, of course, I wanted to get right to the fence. Did you know that when you hit a fence post with the roller it comes out just like little slivers? So I’m rolling, and puff, one post is gone. I phoned my husband. He said not to worry about it, they'll fix it, and just asked me is to stay away from the phone post. I keep rolling and puff, another fence post flies away. OK, not a big deal, they’ll fix this as well. I’m making a turn, and there is a corner post. I’m going really slow and careful, and I still touched it. At least I didn’t pull it out, but it made me think that I probably should stay a bit further away from obstacles. I kept rolling. My lines came close to the phone post, and I know, I shouldn’t come too close. So I roll really slow, but again, here I am, a full-time professional roller. I’m getting closer and closer to it and ... It was like in movies, when I already see the inevitable but can’t change anything anymore. I hear a scratching noise and see the smashed box laying on the ground behind the post that, fortunately, was still standing. Boy, was I embarrassed. I think my confidence was shaken there a bit, allowing some room for learning, and I quickly got back to work and I did most of the rolling that year. When I got back into the tractor to roll again last week, these memories once again made me smile. "What a green newby I was back then," I thought driving down towards the slew to dump rocks. "Now I know better." I stopped, lifted and tilted the bucket. Rocks went down like a cascade. I put the tractor in reverse and… nothing happened. I tried going forward. Nothing. I tried turning. Nothing. It lasted for just a few seconds, but it was enough for me to get deeply stuck and also to realize that I still had a few things to learn. P.S. Brother-in-law pulled me out soon after and I finished the field without any more accidents that day.

L C I EH

Buy

V W NE

Gratitude for the staff at the Estevan Regional Nursing Home The editor: This whole COVID-19 pandemic is really bringing to light the nursing home situation in Canada. The horrible stories from the Canadian military about neglect, abuse, unsanitary living conditions and lack of staff in some Ontario nursing homes must be dealt with. O ur aging seniors who live in these facilities deserve better and it is about time our governments, both

federal and provincial, address this problem. Many families make the very difficult decisions to move a loved one into a nursing home with the thoughts that their loved one will be taken care of. To hear that some seniors in Ontario homes were being fed once a day and don’t have enough staff to bathe and clean the residents is unbelievable in Canada in the year 2020.

These are our vulnerable elderly who have helped build this country and I am sickened to think of one of my parents living like that. Meanwhile, my dad, Hector Boulet, lived at the Estevan Regional Nursing Home for about four years before his death last fall. I am so very thankful my dad was treated with the dignity and respect he deserved. The staff there is wonderful and mom was up

to date on everything going on with him. There was compassion, laughter, thoughtfulness and understanding by the staff. Dad was not a number, he was dad. I will always be grateful to the nurses and all staff that took proper care of my dad. Thank you Estevan Regional Nursing Home. Andrea Friess Penticton, B.C.

Questions linger about COVID-19 response The editor: The past six to eight weeks I’ve sent numerous letters, asking specific questions from our premier, minister of Health and my MLA. My letters were rebuffed or deflected to the www. saskatchewan.ca/COVID19 website. My questions remain unanswered. If our elected officials cannot/will not answer specific questions by the electorate, then these individuals have no right to represent

its citizens and implement policy. These are fundamental questions that our media should ask but have not. I am not a moral narcissist, nor am I death monger. I care about those with and without the virus. The fascist response to mandate a lockdown, to destroy our fragile economy inflicted greater damage than allowing herd immunity to run its course. We elected our MLAs because we wanted critical thinking and thinking out-

side the box, not Marxist lemmings. There was no consideration given to those affected by the draconian decision to stay at home or to close businesses. Many of those mandated by martial law will never recover. Government officials and workers continue to draw a wage and they will force the rest of us to pay their wages via taxation. Meanwhile, we have no income to feed our family, maintain our homes.

Bills must be paid. How are they to be paid? Government can increase deficits and increase taxes, but taxpayers do not have this luxury. Our province refuses to implement a taxpayer bill of rights. Why is that? I’ve lost confidence that a Saskatchewan Party provincial government can lead. Time to vote them out of the party.

Randy Schiller Weyburn

Cruise night will celebrate Class of 2020 Students who are part of the Estevan Comprehensive School’s Class of 2020 will have a chance to celebrate on June 12, even if it’s not in the traditional ceremony. June 12 was supposed to be the night of the grad ceremony at Affinity Place, with more than 2,000 people filling the events centre for the gap and gown celebration, but it had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. So Michael Keating, whose son Jamison is one of this year’s grads, has organized a cruise that will take place that evening. It will depart the Derrick Motor Inn site at 7 p.m., and will make its way through the city, going down Fourth Street, 13th Avenue, Souris Avenue North and Isabelle Street, and then turn around and head back. They’re encouraged to keep the loop going. “We want the kids to dress up their cars, with signs in their windows. We want it to be fun and exciting,” said Keating. Participants are encouraged to make multiple loops around the city before heading home. Keating said the circuit was selected because he remembered using it when he was young, and many others used it, too. “That’s always been the cruise in Estevan, since I was a kid and since my parents were kids. We always did that, that was the cruise,” Keating said. It’s billed to end at 8 p.m., but it could go later, and people don’t necessarily have to start at 7 p.m. at the Derrick, either. There isn’t a designated meeting place once the cruise is finished. Keating expects to have a big turnout of people on the cruise. He has talked to a lot of the grads. “I specifically want to make sure the grads are out there, but I have it open to anybody … who wants to do the cruise and support the grads,” said Keating. Plenty of businesses have agreed to dress up the front of their stores to recognize

A cruise night is happening for the Estevan Comprehensive School’s Class of 2020 on June 12. Photo submitted the grads as well. He has spoken to every business on 13th Avenue and Fourth Street about decorating their storefront, and showing off how much everyone appreciates this year’s class. The Estevan Fire Rescue Service will have their fire trucks out at the fire hall on 13th Avenue. People are also encouraged to decorate their homes to salute the grads. “I have a bunch of grad signs made. I have all the grads with Graduating Class 2020, with their names on it, all running down 13th Avenue’s (and Souris Avenue’s) boulevards.” The 188 signs are two feet by one foot

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each, and will be in the grassy area. Grads are urged to find their sign and take it home with them. Keating said he decided to organize the event for the grads so they could go out and enjoy the day and so they could be proud of the fact they graduated. The response from grads, parents and businesses has been amazing. “The biggest thing is to stay safe out there. We don’t want gatherings after and things like that. This is just to be a cruise night that is still legal for us to do.” He’s thankful for the parents and the businesses for the support they have received.

250

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A6 June 3, 2020

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Encompass looking for teams for fundraiser Encompass Fitness in Estevan has found a new way to encourage businesses to be fit and to raise funds for a worthy cause this year. The fundraiser, Charitable Community Workplace Challenge, is a four-week initiative that starts June 15. It was slated to begin on June 1, but with the timing of the Phase 3 of the provincial government’s Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan on June 8, and the ability for gyms to open again, Encompass owner Brady Johnson said they wanted to allow a little more time for more businesses to join and participate. “Our goal is to have different workplaces participate, and just to bring a lot of health and some good routines and some feel-good energy to their employees, whether they’re working or they’re at home,” said Johnson. Businesses that participate

will pay a fee, and half of the proceeds will be directed to the Rotary Club of Estevan, who will disperse the funds among different causes. Rotary was chosen because their lobsterfest fundraiser has been postponed, and the service group does a lot of good in the community. “We chose to partner with them, and just allow them to help us and really come onside and give back to some of the partnerships and organizations throughout the community.” Each business that participates gives their employees the option to join, and they’ll have access to virtual fitness classes that they can participate in at any time during the day. “We will teach the class live, so they can join the live (session) or do a replay, and then each week there’ll be a different health challenge, so they will give (their employees) the habit, and then each employee gets to

pick how they approach that habit, and try to invite healthier habits into their lives each week, over the four weeks of the challenge,” said Johnson. Each employee will get points for participating in the different classes, habit challenges and other bonus challenges that they have. Other exercises are also available as a bonus, and people are encouraged to be as active as possible during the month. The business that has the most points per participant will be the winner, and get to donate $1,000 to the charity of their choice. “Our hope was to really bring some positive energy to our community, giving back to the charities while also helping local businesses, because we know that when people are healthier, they seem to be happier, and it’s just a win-win for everyone,” she said.

A couple of businesses have already agreed to join, and they hope to have five to 10 teams. The past couple of months have allowed Encompass to expand their online offerings. They closed in mid-March, like other gyms and fitness facilities, but will open again June 8 when they get the green light from the provincial government. “Even though it’s a challenging time, it’s also a very exciting time for us,” she said. Online services will continue to be offered once the fitness centre reopens, although they will continue to encourage people to come to the studio. Encompass moved to a new facility while it was closed due to the pandemic, a move that had been in the works prior the shutdown for COVID-19. “We have a larger floor plan, just more usable for our members. It has a new a layout

Encompass Fitness owner Brady Johnson is pleased to be in their new home, and is looking forward to an upcoming fundraiser. File photo so we can offer some new services, and it’s a little bit closer to downtown, which is beneficial for people who can come her during their lunch breaks or come here directly after work.” The past few months have

been challenging, but some Zoom sessions and reinforcement of positive habits have all helped. She believes the new location is everything she had hoped for and more.

Emergency departments to reopen starting in mid-June By Jordan Stricker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Just a few weeks after the initial closure of 12 rural emergency departments as a part of the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s (SHA) COVID-19 surge plan, the SHA has announced the departments will reopen starting in mid-June. According to an announcement by the SHA last week, they will be targeting to

re-open emergency departments to previous levels of service in nine communities over the next four to six weeks. The affected communities that will reopen are Arcola, Oxbow, Kerrobert, Herbert, Preeceville, Davidson, Wolseley, Biggar and Leader. The SHA expects the first reopening will be Arcola in mid-June, with others to follow. A public ser vice announcement released by the

SHA said some of the criteria being used to assess the safety and readiness for reopening emergency departments are training of staff and physicians, cohorting of staff and minimal prevalence of COVID-19 in the community or surrounding community. SHA CEO Scott Livingstone said the original plan was to create 12 COVID-19 free facilities within the 12 designated areas. Additionally, it was to free up capacity, train staff and ensure

cohorting was done in those facilities to be better prepared in the event of a COVID-19 surge. “Because the designation early on in these 12 [locations] was COVID-19 free, we haven’t done that work, so that is going to be undertaken now as you see those temporary suspensions and services be withdrawn,” said Livingstone. Premier Scott Moe said during a press conference last week there may have been a public perception that the emergency rooms would be permanently closed, which caused general concern. “These have never been intended to be permanent closures. They have been temporary closures to allow the SHA as a whole to transition into a more holistic response to a COVID-19 surge,” said Moe. Moe said he shares con-

cerns with the public who have commented on the closure of emergency rooms in rural communities. “I understand our health system has had to make some difficult decisions to prepare for the potential and possible surge of COVID-19 in our hospitals,” said Moe. “Thanks to the actions of Saskatchewan people, our province has been able to avoid the kind of pressure in our hospital system that we have seen in other places of this nation,” he added. Moe added many communities have struggled over the course of the last 15 years with access to healthcare in rural Saskatchewan. “There is community after community that has had challenges with breaks in services and the concern is always immediate,” said Moe. Health Minister Jim Reiter said they could have done

a better job communicating the point of the temporary closure of emergency rooms in rural communities. “That is not the history of this government, that is not the case with any of these facilities,” said Reiter. “This was according to the plan all along,” he added. Saskatchewan New Democratic Party (NDP) health critic Vicki Mowat said the move to temporarily shut down the emergency rooms was too fast and it was a mistake in the first place. She added it was encouraging to see the plan to reopen the emergency rooms, but discouraging to see three of the 12 communities with no plan for reopening. “We know that these concerns of folks in rural Saskatchewan about healthcare are not recent,” said Mowat. “They have existed for years now,” she added.

Online PROPERTY & EQUIPMENT

AUCTION

THE ESTATE OF WAYNE EBEL & EBEL’S CONTRACTING & SUPPLY LTD. SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2020 @ 10AM WEYBURN, SK 1560 NEW CITY GARDEN ROAD, HWY 39E

This will be a TIMED ONLINE AUCTION ONLY starting Saturday, June 13, 2020. See mackauctioncompany.com for details. Wayne Ebel was well known in the oilfield sector for his United Centrifuge business and later as Ebel’s Contracting. His pride of ownership shows through in his buildings and one of the cleanest lines of equipment we have ever offered!

Property & Building: 20061bs1

60’ x 80’ steel frame construction building complete with retail space, wash bay with Hotsy, offices, bathrooms, and 3 phase power. Aslo 36’ x 60’ heated storage building all situated on a 200’ x 435’ lot with great drainage and base just off of a major highway. 2004 Volvo L70E wheel loader with 2717 hours and quick coupler, 2007 Case 430 skid steer with heated cab and 2816 hours, Strongco Reactor snow blade with hydraulic snow wings, 2016 Desite SLG 78-4 ASM sand screener, Lowe MFG 1650 Classic skid steer hole auger with 4”,6”,10”,12” & 36” bits, Tornado truck mount sander, skid steer rock bucket, wheel loader quick attach pallet forks, 2008 Mack Pinnacle automatic tandem gravel truck with Neustar gravel box and roll cover, 2006 Chev C-6500 Duramax diesel single axle dump truck with Allison automatic and 10’ gravel box only 49,000 km, 2009 GMC 2500 4WD pickup truck, 1996 GMC 3500 gas one ton dually flat deck with winch, 2015 Trailtech 16’ tandem axle dump trailer with slide in ramps, Kubota L3540 FWA tractor and LA 724 FEL and 3PTH with only 447 hours, Kubota quick attach pallet forks, Landpride 3PTH rotary mower, Landpride 3PTH angle blade, Landpride 3PTH offset disc, Landpride #PTH RTA 12-74 rototiller, Schulte 3PTH snow blower, JD 111 garden tractor, various quantities of pea gravel and crushed rock, cedar mulch and fertilizer, rubber curb stops, concrete jersey barriers, pallet lots of ice melt, landscaping products, storage rig mats, 3-53’ sea cans, 2-40’ sea cans, 8’x20 steel frame rig matt, 8\x40 steel frame rig matt, Drummond 31,000 W PTO generator, Mod-u-blast sand blaster, U Line 4’x4’ digital platform scale, Stihl concrete saw, Powermate 3500 generator, Wacker plate tamper, Powerfist electric cement mixer, Craftsman snow blower, pallet jack, shrink wrap machine, King Drill press, plus a complete line of hand tools, desks, chairs, filing cabinets, retail shelving units plus so much more.

Lorne Ebel 306-861-5222 Twyla Molnar 306-861-6644

www.mackauctioncompany.com 306-421-2928 | 306-487-7815 PL 311962

A8 June 3, 2020

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Eddie’s has found ways to adjust to pandemic Eddie Webster’s is well-known locally as a place for good food and excellent dining, for during the past 2 1/2 months, it has shifted its business model to be a place where people pick up great food. Eddie’s was forced to close down its dining room and lounge in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it remained open for in-restaurant and curbside pickup. General manager Ivy Mababa said the pandemic has allowed the restaurant, which has been locally owned since the 1980s, to focus on its roots and reconnect with the community. “Everyone is going through this together, and we want to let Estevan and the surrounding towns know that we are there for them,” Mababa told the Mercury. Eddie’s has remained busy, serving customers from 4-9 p.m. daily. She believes some people have been coming in from outside of Estevan to pick up food from the restaurant. “Every time I speak to them, they would thank us for staying open,” she said.

And they still have their weekly specials, like wing Wednesday and sushi Saturday. Their taco Tuesday now sees them provide everything people will need for an at-home taco night. The restaurant has an online menu that allows people to see what they want before ordering. People can also place an order through Eddie’s Facebook page, which is regularly updated. “Most of the time, they either phone us, or they order through our Facebook page. We try hard to be on the spot, answering questions for ordering and handling any inquiries,” Mababa said. Since they are open at 4 p.m., some people will pre-order a few hours in advance, or even a day in advance. Approximately 30 people work at Eddie’s, and Mababa said she is impressed with how they came together during this time. “Even though we closed our dining services, we still provide a new job for them, like doing some maintenance where we’re closed, and general cleaning just to provide

employment for them.” The restaurant has also been partnering with local businesses to provide donations to the community and drop meals off for front-line workers during the past two months. Eddie’s staff members are looking forward to seeing their customers again. Restaurants and licensed establishments will be able to reopen to customers on June 8, although they will be limited to 50 per cent capacity, and there will be other restrictions to allow for social distancing. “We’ve been ready at Eddie’s since the day we closed. We want to make sure when the government allows us to reopen, we are really ready to reopen,” said Mababa. “We even prepared new cleaning duties, and this is a really new normal for us, just because we want to make sure every minute counts.” Eddie’s was selected as Estevan favourite fine dining establishment by readers of the Estevan Mercury during the Best of Estevan contest earlier this year, so customers are undoubtedly eager to return, too. Customers can look forward

Staff members from Eddie Webster’s Kitchen and Bar gather for a group photo in the renovated lounge area. Photo submitted to a one-touch menu, which will be disposable for each customer when they dine in. She expects the restaurant will go beyond provincial guidelines to ensure a safe and healthy environment. Eddie’s lounge will also have a new look when the restaurant reopens on June 8. An interior designer was hired to give the lounge a new vibe. “The lounge has been our big project. We took advantage of the

time that we closed our dining to refresh everything, especially our lounge. I believe it’s been a few years since we made some changes in there, and we are pretty excited.” They consulted the interior designer because they wanted to have a fresh look, giving them something new, but still in line with Eddie’s culture. The restoration work just needs a little bit of touch-ups so it will be ready by June 8.

Cornerstone reveals plans to close out school year The South East Cornerstone Public School Division has more information on its plans for the rest of the school year. In a letter to parents, director of education Lynn Little said that with June approaching, there are some important dates and other information that need to be released. Supplemental learning for most schools will continue until June 24 to align with the existing board and Ministry of Education-approved calendar. There may be some rescheduling of virtual meetings to allow for opportunities for staff to engage in preparation for the next school year. “Your child’s teacher(s) and school administration will

be in communication regarding end of the year wrap-up,” the letter stated. The dates from June 2530 will be used to allow staff to shut down the schools and prepare for the 2020-21 school year. Parents can expect to receive a communication from their child’s or children’s school outlining the process for returning library books, textbooks and any other school owned resources prior to June 26. Laptops that students have on loan from the school division will not be collected at this time. “Once we affirm the framework for the fall we will determine an appropriate process. Grade 12 students are asked to return laptops to their

home school prior to Friday, June 26,” the letter said. All other students are asked to keep the laptops until the fall. For Carievale School, Alameda School, Bienfait Weldon School and Wapella School, which are on an altered school year calendar, supplemental online learning will continue until June 10 to align with the existing board and Ministry of Educationapproved calendar. There may be some rescheduling of virtual meetings to allow for opportunities for staff to engage in preparation for next school year. Teacher(s) and school administration will be in communication regarding end of the year wrap-up. June 11-16 will be used

to allow staff to shut down the schools and prepare for the 2020-21 school year. Parents should expect to receive a communication from the school, outlining the process for returning library books, textbooks and any other school owned resources

prior to June 12. Laptops that students have on loan from the school division will not be collected at this time. Little noted the division expects a communication from the Education Response Planning Team in the coming week

that will outline a framework for the delivery of education in the fall. “We have been asked to prepare for three possible scenarios which include a full return with social distancing, a partial return or a remote delivery,” the letter said.

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TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST Village of Frobisher PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land description and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 4th day of August, 2020 an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY Lot

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Total Arrears and Costs

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$39.76

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$1,638.74

$578.28

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$618.04

$941.82

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$97.25

$39.76

$137.01

$1,738.54

$19.88

$1,758.42

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41749

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41749

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41749

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41749

C359

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AL4900

135148923

AL4900

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AL4900

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101525936

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June 3, 2020 A9

Congratulations

CLASS OF

2020

STOUGHTON CENTRAL SCHOOL

Dawson Fuller

Tia Hugo

Karl Borejon

Shaelynn Hagen

Tremaine Whitestar

Celebrating the

Graduating Class of 2020 “ ”

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. - Helen Keller

DR. ROBERT KITCHEN MP

Souris-Moose Mountain

306-634-3000 • www.drrobertkitchen.ca

Shoni King

Shyanne Coderre

Colton Berner We salute you, Class of 2020! Your hard work and dedication set a great example, and we're very proud of your accomplishments. Congratulations!

Daniel Hall

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City Hall: 1102 4th Street 8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1800 Leisure Office: 701 Souris Avenue 8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1880

Message From

The Mayor

Please support our local businesses as we move toward Phase 3.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Council of the City of Estevan pursuant to the Cities Act that the Council of the City of Estevan, gives notice of its intention to implement four bylaw to Regulate Taxes within the City of Estevan. On May 11, 2020 meeting the first reading of these bylaws was passed and the final readings is expected to be on June 15, 2020 The proposed Bylaw 2020-2023 Health Levy, 2020-2024 Library Levy, 2020-2025 Business Improvement District, 20202026 Fix the Rate of Taxation may be inspected by any person in the City Clerk’s Office, on the main level of City Hall, between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday. Dated this 15th day of May , 2020. Judy Pilloud 1102 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A 0W7

2020 WATERMAIN FLUSHING SCHEDULE The City of Estevan will be flushing watermains to ensure good water quality for all users of City water. This work includes the turning of main water valves around the City, and flushing large quantities of water from various hydrants in each area. During this process you may notice a substantial drop in pressure, this will be brief. As well, discoloured water is possible during the days your area is scheduled for this work (see schedule below), please run a faucet for a few minutes until the water is clear again. Please contact City Hall at 634-1800 if issues persist. Thank you for your understanding during this important maintenance! (2) Monday – Friday- June 1-5 Area bounded by 6th Street on the North, Valley Street, 1st Street, and Westview Place on the South, Alice Road and Woodlawn Avenue on the West, and Souris Avenue on the East (includes Westview, Central, and downtown regions) (3 Monday- Friday June 8-12 Area bounded by 6th street on the North, McDonald Road and Perkins Street on the South, Souris Avenue on the West, and Kensington Ave on the East (includes the Eastend, Bay Meadows, and Valley view regions, and Jubilee Place) (4) Monday –Friday June 15-19 Area Bounded by City Cemetery on the North, King Street on the South, Sister Roddy Road on the West (formerly Woodlawn Avenue), and Souris Road (Hwy 47N) on the East (includes Dominion Heights, Pleasantdale, and Royal Heights regions, as well as Cundall Drive, Woodend Place, Chinook Bay and Hwy 47N Service Road) (5) Monday – Friday June 29-July 3 Area bounded by Spruce Drive and Princess Street on the North, King Street on the South, Souris Avenue on the West, and Kensington on the East (includes Hillside and Scotsburn regions) (6) Monday -Friday July 6-10 Area bounded by King Street on the North, CPR Railroad on the South, 14th Ave on the West, and Kensington on the East (includes 7th Street, 8th Street, 9th Street, Centennial, Trojan, and Soo Industrial regions) (7) Monday- Friday July 13-17 Area bounded by Kensington on the West, Sawyer Road on the East, North and South City Limits (includes Glen Peterson Industrial Park, East Industrial, Southeast Industrial regions, and properties along Hwy 39E Service Road)

PUBLIC NOTICE • Zoning Classification: High Density Residential (R4) • Use Classification: Health Services, Discretionary Use • Proposed Use Massage therapy, yoga and holistic healing

Prior to this application being considered by the approving authority, any person may inquire and/or make written or verbal submissions on the proposed development. Please direct inquiries to Land Development Services @ 306-634-1821, write or e-mail landdevelopment@estevan.ca prior to June 12, 2020.

PARKING NOTICE Time Limit Parking 29.

(1) No person shall park a vehicle on any street or parking lot for a longer period than specified by sign and set out in Schedule “C” No Parking 34.

Beginning Monday April 6,2020,and continuing to Friday, June 26,2020, the Water and wastewater Division will be carrying out Sanitary Sewer Main Flushing and Storm sewer Flushing, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. During the periods of jetting, residents and businesses are advised to securely cap basement floor drains. You may smell an odor in your home, this can be resolved by simply opening windows for a short period of time and running water to ensure all traps are full of water. Storm sewer will have no effect on homes and business’. 2020 Program Area will encompass all streets North of 6th Street, and west of Souris Ave within City limits including: Morsky Drive Larter Road MacCready Bay Tedford Way Matte Court Jesse Bay Wellock Road Irvine Crescent Dieppe Crescent Victory Road Gibbs Road Mayfair Drive Mayfair Bay Cardinal Avenue

Barabash Bay Taisey Crescent Newcombe Drive Nicholson Road Wahlmeier Drive Boyer Avenue Mack Place Mather Crescent Dyer Road Pettigrew Road McCormick Crescent Grundeen Crescent Thorn Crescent Sinclair Bay

Hill Avenue Veterans Avenue Veterans Crescent Veterans Bay Kohaly Avenue Lynd Crescent Hudson Road Hillcrest Drive Hillcrest Bay Woodend Place Cundall Drive King Street Chinook Bay

UTILITIES AND TAXES DURING COVID 19 PANDEMIC To offer assistance and best service to citizens experiencing the effects of the economic impact due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is committed to providing increased flexibility and immediate short-term relief for your utility and property tax payments through the following: UTILITY SERVICES: The City will continue to bill for utility services as normal. However, to best serve the City’s customers in these extraordinary times, the City has made the following changes to current utility collections activities: Utility disconnections due to arrears will be suspended until September 1, 2020;

The City of Estevan has received an application for a change of use within an existing building, described as: • File: DP018-2020 • Civic Address: 232 12th Avenue • Legal Description: Lot 21-22, Plan 101274814

FLUSHING PROGRAM

(1) No person shall park a vehicle on any street or parking lot: (a) where parking is prohibited or restricted by display of a sign or yellow painted curb; (b) For a period of more than twenty-four (24) consecutive hours (c) No person shall leave a recreational vehicle which is not attached to a motor vehicle on a highway; provided that this provision shall not apply to equipment owned or operated by the City or contracted by the City during the construction of capital works or maintenance projects.

PART I - Two Hour Parking • • • •

All of Lots 21, 22 and 23, Block 43, Plan 12538 (12th Avenue and 6th Street) (known as the Holmgren Parking Lot) All of Lot 25, Block 43, Plan 12538 (1217 3rd Street) (known as “RBC” Lot) All of Lot 27, Block 43, Plan 12538 (1225 3rd Street) (Also known as “Henders” Lot) All of Lot 28, Block 43, Plan 12538 (1229 3rd Street) (Also known as “A & A Jewellers” lot) • East 12.5 feet of Lot 3 and all of Lots 4 and 5, Block 12, Plan 12538. • The west half (12.5 feet) of Lot 28, the whole of Lot 29 and the most south easterly 17 feet in perpendicular width of Lot 30, Block 12, Plan 12538. • All of Lot 48, Block 19, Plan 101113434 (1216 Fifth Street) (Also known as House of Stationary – H.O.S. lot)

PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Estevan has received an application for a change of use within an existing building, described as: • Zoning Classification: High Density Residential (R4) • File: DP019-2020 • Use Classification: Health Services, Discretionary Use • Civic Address: 232 12th Avenue • Proposed Use: Massage Therapy, natural health and related services • Legal Description: Lot 21-22, Plan 101274814 Prior to this application being considered by the approving authority, any person may inquire and/or make written or verbal submissions on the proposed development. Please direct inquiries to Land Development Services @ 306-634-1821, write or e-mail landdevelopment@estevan.ca prior to June 12, 2020.

HOUSE NUMBERS Please note for your safety that Bylaw 2008-1789 requires house numbers to be posted on your building so that it is visible in the front and the back. Section 1a) The owner or occupant of a building shall cause the number or numbers to be at all times prominently displayed in a conspicuous place on the front of the building facing the street near the main entrance door of the building. g) all buildings within the City of Estevan will be required to have the civic address of each building posted so that it is clearly visible from the back lane of each building. If you require emergency services it is for your safety that they are able to find your residence quickly when called.

Late payment charges will be suspended on all utility accounts until September 1, 2020; and We will continue to generate utility bills, reminders and other related notices for customers who are in arrears to keep them informed of their current situation. These measures are aimed at providing financial relief for customers who may not be able to afford to pay their bills on time. By suspending late payment charges, utility customers will have the option to delay bill payments without putting themselves in additional financial hardship. However, civic staff will continue to work with the City’s utility customers regarding payment arrangements so as not to leave them in a difficult financial situation in the future. Delaying disconnections will help ensure that all homes have access to water, allowing for proper hand-washing and personal hygiene. PROPERTY TAX: Your 2020 Property Tax notice will be delivered by the end of June, 2020. To offer assistance and best service to citizens experiencing the effects of the economic impact due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is committed to providing increased flexibility and immediate short-term relief for your 2020 Property Tax payment. On your notice, your 2020 Property Tax due date will still show as July 31, 2020. HOWEVER: The City is extending a two-month grace period to provide you with additional time to pay your 2020 Property Tax. You will not incur any late payment penalties on your 2020 Property Tax if you pay the full amount due by September 30, 2020. We would like to answer your property tax-related questions. We understand and will work with you.

CONSTRUCTION BULLETIN VETERANS CRESCENT - The City of Estevan is undertaking construction for the Watermain replacement. The affected area includes Veterans Crescent. Property access and parking restrictions are to occur. This work will commence June 15, 2020 and will take approximately eight (8) weeks to complete (subject to weather) City of Estevan will perform this work within the current Bylaw regulations and specifications. Safety - Construction site could be dangerous. If you have children, please ask them to keep a safe distance from the site. We will take every precaution to ensure public safety, but we need your assistance to constrain the natural curiosity of younger children. Please DO NOT attempt to go close to areas affected. Theft or Vandalism - If you see any act of vandalism, theft or anyone suspiciously tampering with equipment, signage or barricades please contact 306-634-1800, or after hours call Police. Questions and Concerns - The City of Estevan, Engineering Services apologize for any inconveniences that this work may cause and thank you in advance for your cooperation and patience. If you have any question or concerns, please call at 634-1800 or approach the supervisor or foreman on site.

Serving Estevan & SE Sask for 30 years. Put the knowledge and experience to work for you! Text/Talk To Terry for all of your real estate needs.

Energy

Terry L. Germain 306.421.2021

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

A11

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Premier Scott Moe says federal government’s oil and gas relief programs “missed the mark” As the province and country continue their rebound efforts in the fight against COVID-19, Premier Scott Moe said the federal government’s oil and gas relief programs “missed the mark” in terms of helping the sector recover. “I think the programs missed the mark for the energy industry in particular,”

said Moe during a press conference. “I am not sure if there are other large businesses that will be making use of what is essentially a loan program,” he added. One of the programs Moe is referring to is the federal government’s Business Development Bank (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC), which is aimed at small and mid-sized producers, oilfield services and refineries. The program provides $15-60 million in loans

per company from BDC, with loan guarantees up to $100 million from EDC. The other program Moe referred to was the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF). This program announced by the federal government is aimed at companies with annual revenues above $300 million, that need financing of at least $60 million. “It just simply isn’t going to be useful for the energy industry,” said Moe. “Thankfully prices have

rebounded a bit. They are nowhere near profitable territory, but they have rebounded a bit,” said Moe. Minister of Energy and Resources Bronwyn Eyre sent a letter to the federal government’s Minister of Natural Resources in early May calling for further supports for the sector due to the fact the requirements for the programs do not fit Saskatchewan’s needs. The letter said Saskatchewan has only one large, vertically integrated producer

which is Husky. Additionally, Saskatchewan has 10 midcap producers and some 160 small producers. She said only a handful of producers will qualify and added others are either unwilling or unable to take on more debt. Moe also said the province is currently working with the oil and gas sector to help rebuild post COVID-19. “We are working very closely with the energy industry to see if there are some opportunities for us to work together, to ensure they can get

to a profitable state quicker, and then rebuild,” said Moe. Moe said the province is appreciative for the abandoned well program the federal government put in place. They allocated $400 million to Saskatchewan for the program. “That was asked for a number of years ago by the former premier and that is getting people to work in the service portion of that industry. We are appreciative of that segment of funding,” said Moe.

The Estevan Oilfield Technical Society (OTS) still hopes to have its two marquee events of the year. The OTS had to postpone its annual open curling bonspiel, scheduled for March 21 and 22, and its annual golf tournament, which was slated to run from May 29-31, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Oilmen’s golf tournament is slated for Sept. 11, which would make it an abbreviated version. The format is not yet decided. “We prepared ourselves to secure a day at the golf course, and then as the day nears, we’ll see what parameters we have to live within as an association,” said Estevan OTS president Conrad Meili. The bonspiel, meanwhile, will be Oct. 23 and 24, also likely to be an abbreviated fashion. Traditionally the bonspiel has been the final event

of the year at the curling club, so it will hopefully open the 2020-21 season. Both events have traditionally had meals and a social component as part of them. He’s confident that if the OTS is able to host the event, then the people will come. Meili said the majority of people have handled the decision to postpone well. “The bonspiel feedback I got was that people were happy that we didn’t decide to just scrap it entirely, that we still gave it an opportunity for something to look forward to as we come out of this,” said Meili. People were happy to see that the two marquee events weren’t cancelled. The OTS remains a big part of the community and the oilpatch. The events are great social activities, and Meili remembers when they provided

an introduction to the community during a busier time in 2007. “It was a way for me to get integrated and meet people and get to know them, and those relationships have carried on for a significant period of time.”

He knows of those who have been involved or the face of the organization at different points of time, and it’s created job opportunities or door openings that might not have existed if they didn’t volunteer or contribute to the community.

In the community, the OTS has its lobster trailer that has undergone a significant facelift. They’re starting to look at dates in 2021, when they hope life will be back to normal in the region. It means they will be seen at events such as the OTS golf tournament, the Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show in Weyburn, a lobster dinner in Oxbow and the Rotary Club of Estevan’s annual lobsterfest next year. They had a structural

engineer look at the derrick at the west end of the city to ensure it would be there for some time to come. And they have also worked with the City of Estevan on the oilfield-related displays at the Eli Mandel Park in east Estevan. “We’ll be putting up some signage around all of the different components that will indicate the extraction of oil and how it gets from the ground to a transportable and sellable resource.”

By Jordan Stricker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

OTS reschedules popular events for later this year

Kevin Sawyer, left, accepted the 2019 Estevan OTS golf tournament trophy and plaque from tournament co-chair Tony Sernick. The OTS still hopes to have its golf tournament for 2020 in September. File photo

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Phone: (306)634-7979 403B 9th Avenue, Estevan, SK S4A 2V4 INFO@SPECTRAFINANCIAL.CA • WWW.SPECTRAFINANCIAL.CA

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Manulife, Manulife & Stylized M Design, Stylized M Design and Manulife Securities are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under license. Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc. is a Member MFDA IPC. Insurance products and services may be offered to you through companies other than Manulife Securities Insurance Inc. Please be sure that you have a clear understanding of which company you are dealing with for each of your services and products.

Frontier Place, Estevan

306-634-5555

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Troye Carson • 306-421-3603

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• Souris Valley Pipeline Limited operates a High Pressure Carbon Dioxide Pipeline in Southeast Saskatchewan, a component of the gas is Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S). • As a member of Sask 1st Call, Souris Valley Pipeline would like to remind you to call Sask 1st Call at 1-866-828-4888. • Statistics show that a significant cause of pipeline ruptures is due to third party damage. For pipeline safety concerns or emergencies call toll free 1-866-PIPELINE (1-866-747-3546) Before excavating call Sask 1st Call at 1-866-828-4888 for a free locate. www.sask1stcall.com

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SOURIS VALLEY PIPELINE LIMITED 617 Government Road S Weyburn, SK S4H 2B3 Phone: 306-848-0206 Fax: 306-848-0293

A12 June 3, 2020

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MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 Saskatchewan Mining Week is May 31-June 6 The Government of Saskatchewan, with the Saskatchewan Mining Association, has proclaimed May 31 to June 6 as Saskatchewan Mining Week. The week, which includes a virtual launch, activities and presentations, highlights Saskatchewan’s world-class mining sector, its extensive contributions to local communities and the provincial and global economy. This year’s theme is Mining: Essential to Local and Global Communities. According to a government news release, despite the COVID-19 pandemic and temporary market conditions, Saskatchewan’s mining sector is well-positioned to emerge as a leader in the provincial economic

recovery, promoting food security and supplying critical resources, including clean energy, to the world. In 2019, Saskatchewan produced more potash than any other country and about 30 per cent of the global total. Saskatchewan is also the world’s second-largest uranium producer, accounting for approximately 13 per cent of global production. “This week highlights the resilience and success of our mining sector and its growing diversification, including into diamonds, nickel and copper,” Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre said. “In recent years, Saskatchewan has proudly welcomed new mining companies to the province. We offer some of the most extensive mineral research labs

in the world, internationally renowned geoscience and extensive junior exploration opportunities.” Saskatchewan remains a favourable jurisdiction for investment in mineral exploration and development. The province offers a stable regulatory environment, competitive royalty structures, and various incentives, including a provincial sales tax exemption for explorator y and downhole drilling activity, and the Targeted Mineral Exploration Incentive, which supports exploration for precious and base metals and diamonds. “The products we mine are essential for providing food and clean energy to global communities, while providing essential jobs for Saskatchewan residents and

revenues to governments,” Saskatchewan Mining Association president Pam Schwann said. Estimated exploration expenditures in the province for 2019 were $281 million, with more than $2.3 billion in expenditures over the past decade. Saskatchewan’s mining industry generated $7.4 billion in sales in 2019 and more than $72.3 billion since 2010. “While the importance of mining operations in Saskatchewan has always been recognized, the global COVID-19 pandemic has brought focus to the essential nature of mining, and its supply chains, in providing food, clean energy and critical minerals, as well as essential jobs to our economy,” said SMA chair Tammy Van

Lambalgen. B e yon d i t s u n p re c edented challenges, the pandemic has provided an opportunity to have clarity on mining’s values, and to recognize the utmost importance of keeping employees and communities safe. They enhanced safety measures, restricted access to mines and implemented screening protocols. To protect northern employees and their communities, they suspended production at all remote mines and mills with employees sent home temporarily with pay. The Saskatchewan mining industr y, even while facing its own hardships, has been resilient and supported communities through financial assistance of over $2.5 million in addition to

providing personal protective equipment and essential goods to many non-profits, community organizations, Indigenous and emergency response groups. “Saskatchewan Mining Week provides an opportunity to recognize the achievements and contributions of our industry to the economic growth of Saskatchewan. During these challenging times, we are privileged to be able to continue to make a difference and improve the quality of life for Saskatchewan people by providing essential work to employees and suppliers, by continuing to contribute to government revenues to fund health, education and infrastructure programs and by providing community support,” said Schwann.

When nature takes over the historical pieces It’s been many years since a little coal car was used last. Located southwest of Estevan, it sits on the side of a hill, not far from what used to be a coal stockpile. The railways still can be seen going into the side of the hill where there is a caved-in underground mine that first was operated almost 100 years ago. Coal cars went right into the side of the hill to be filled up with coal. Miners loaded cars using shovels and then horses or ponies pulled them out. The coal was dumped not far from the mine entrance and farmers from Bienfait, Torquay and other places in the area would come in from the valley floor and load their wagons at the stockpile site. Each miner had their own customers he was digging coal for. There is still hardly any grass growing on the small flat meadow covered with coal dust. More mine caves can be found on hillsides all around Estevan.

A long time ago, this little coal car was used to bring coal out of one of the underground mines. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

COVID-19 ENHANCED SAFETY MEASURES FOR SASKATCHEWAN MINING INDUSTRY

PHYSICAL DISTANCING

SPACING

INCREASED

REDUCED PERSONNEL

INCREASED SANITATION

HANDWASHING

PPE

ON SITE

OF HIGH TOUCH AREAS

FLOOR

MARKER LINES

BODY TEMPERATURE

PERSONNEL

REDUCED

STAGGERED

IN ELEVATORS

IN VEHICLES

BREAKS AND SHIFTS

FOR PHYSICAL DISTANCING

SCREENING

SCREENING QUESTIONNAIRE

STAGGERED SEATING

INCREASED

INCREASED FOCUS

IF SICK

FOR EACH WORKER

ON FLIGHTS AND BUSES

COMMUNICATION

ON MENTAL HEALTH

STAY AT HOME

REDUCED

www.estevanmercury.ca

June 3, 2020 A13

MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 Mine Rescue Team at Westmoreland’s Estevan site is as dedicated to their co-workers as ever By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

They might not be training for a competition this year, but the Mine Rescue Team at Westmoreland Mining Holdings LLC’s Estevan Mine remains as dedicated as ever, learning and practising so they ’re ready when called upon. In a normal year, team members would be applying the finishing touches to their training for the annual Emergency Response/Mine Rescue Skills Competition that is held each year as the culmination of Saskatchewan Mining Week, and serves as a showcase of the talented and committed people who work at Westmoreland’s Estevan mine and for other mining companies across the province. But this isn’t a normal year. The competition has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But

that doesn’t mean the local team’s skills and efforts aren’t needed. The team had to take a couple of months off due to COVID-19, but they’re back to practising, with their first session held on Friday. They’ll continue to meet once a month, and in the past they have also attended some training programs. Guy Hiltz, who serves as the safety manager at the mine, said they draw members from throughout the mine, including operations, maintenance and the activated carbon plant, which is located near Bienfait. “We want to try to get as many people involved from different areas, so they ’re familiar with the surroundings we’re all going to be in,” Hiltz told the Mercury. They always like to have new members join. F ive people signed up late last year and early this year, and

one person was at a practice for the first time Friday. Hiltz said they were hoping they could get new members trained for the competition, but the competition obviously didn’t happen this year. In a couple of years, he hopes they’ll be ready. “In a lot of cases, with new members, any time they come into this atmosphere, it’s like a deer in the headlights look, because I don’t think a lot of people realize what it is that we train on, when we talk about rope rescue or confined space entry,” said Hiltz. “I think they’ve heard about it but I don’t think they understand what it’s all about until they see what we’re doing.” The team that would have gone to the mine rescue competition would have seven or eight members. It consists of those who are available to take three weeks to train each day, or have

The mine rescue team practises a variety of scenarios when they gather. File photo

The mine rescue team at Westmoreland Holdings Mining LLC’s Estevan mine is a dedicated group that has recently started practising again. File photo been members in the past. “We do try to mix in some cagey veterans with some new blood, just so that they get a taste of what it’s like,” said Hiltz. During the past couple of months, team members have been meeting occasionally online to keep connected, but it’s obviously not the preferred way of training. Team captain Brandon Schopp has been part of the team for the past seven years. He had no experience with the work that the mine rescue team performs before joining, but he found the work interesting and decided to give it a try. “It’s a pretty close group of people, and they’re all pretty great to work with,” said Schopp. Sometimes they’ll go a month or two without receiving a call, and other times they’ll get a couple of calls in a month.

A normal practice would see them work on ropes rescue, first aid, search and rescue, bookwork, theory, and firefighting over the course of eight hours. V ice-captain Jessica Klarholm has also been a team member for the past seven years. She described it as a great opportunity to receive training that she would never receive anywhere else, and she learns things that she can apply to her dayto-day life, which includes riding horses and dirt bikes. And she gets to meet some great people through the team. Klarholm was excited to be back practising with her fellow team members. “ We’ve been waiting and waiting to hear when we can start, so we’re all very happy to be back,” she said. In some cases, Klarholm hadn’t seen them in two or three months, because they

all work different shifts. The mine rescue team is important because it helps everyone feel safer in an industry that carries some on-the-job risks. “Knowing that there are people here that can save your life within minutes, well, it’s helpful for me, anyways, on a ‘dozer at 3 a.m.,” she said. To be a successful member, Klarholm said a person has to put in hours on their own time, and they have to be willing to know their team members. The remaining members are team coach and coordinator Cory Gibson, team co-ordinator Steven Kitchen, Derek Choma, Josiah Anderson, Kevin Ducey, Lonnie Rooks, Tanner WagerBrandow, Tyler Ursu, Brian Trombley, Jamie Rosengren, John Wells, Isaiah Adenifi, Matt Clausen, Travis Olver and Chris Jansen.

Coal Matters in Saskatchewan

Think of all the things in your daily life that depend on the availability of reliable, stable sources of electricity... like lights, computers, schools and hospitals. Now consider where all that electricity comes from... A significant portion of the electricity used in Saskatchewan is generated by coal mined right here in our province. Westmoreland Mining Holdings is proud to celebrate Saskatchewan Mining Week. May 31 - June 6, 2020 www.westmoreland.com

A14 June 3, 2020

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MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 What’s there in working at the mines? Long-retired mine employee Asbenlieder recalls his work By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

Like many other retired mine employees, Richard Asbenlieder, who spent 36 years of his life working in the industry, talks about his job with love, passion and pride. His work at the mines started in 1972 when he applied to work at the M & S Coal mine in Estevan. What started almost by happy fortune, turned out to be an entire era for Asbenlieder. “I was looking for a job at that time. And this is funny, I went to the mine manager, and he asked me, ‘Are you a carpenter?’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ I was no carpenter. I could do a little bit, but I was sure no carpenter. He said, ‘OK, you can come to work.’ And I got that job,” recalled Asbenlieder. Among other benefits of working in the mining industry was the camaraderie and opportunity to learn from people. And while he wasn’t a professional carpenter, Asbenlieder successfully worked for the mines for over 3 1/2 decades learning many things along the way and gaining professionalism as he was moving forward. Throughout his times he’s tried quite a few different jobs. Some of them he bid on consciously, while other gigs he did in between fulfilling his main duties. Just like now, the seniority and the trade qualifications meant a lot and allowed people to move forward. For some time Asbenlieder worked as a carpenter helper, and then he’d spent about a year building the 1800 dragline that was shipped from abroad. And after that, the big jobs began. His first-ever bid was on

truck operator position. The trucks he drove back then were rough and could carry about 40 tonnes as opposed to the contemporary huge beasts used at the Westmoreland Estevan mine. And the roads weren’t smooth either. “The ones I drove in Bienfait had a bar (over the side window) that you could hold onto, so you didn’t fly out of the cab,” said Asbenlieder laughing. He’s been driving coal trucks on and off for many years and witnessed the equipment development. The earlier trucks had no conveniences. The ones that came after had a prototype of air conditioning. There the air was cooled with the help of water. But outside of cooling the cab the water also would catch dust from the air, and every so often when a truck hit a bump on the road the driver was washed down with a dirty cascade. “Those older trucks … they were rough. Cold in the wintertime, they didn’t have good gears, never had no radio.” By the time he retired the trucks were nowhere close to what he started at. Asbenlieder recalls that as the time went by, the mines switched to 70-tonners, then to “really nice” 90-tonners and the contemporary trucks can carry about 150 tonnes. But he never had a chance to drive the biggest machines, as they came to use after his times. The work was sometimes quite hard, and other times pretty boring as he would make 10-12 round trips a day, bringing coal from mines to the plant. But not by a fraction did it make him like his job less. For a few years, As-

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Richard Asbenlieder recalls his job operating a similar locomotive as his best experience at the mines. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia benlieder also worked as a driller blaster, blasting rock and coal. Then he moved over to operate the grader and then back to driving truck. But the best times and work experience he had within the mining system happened later in his career when he went to locomotive. While Asbenlieder got a job as a breaker, Bruce LaCoste, who was working aside him and running the train, taught him some new skills. “He trained me how to run the train, and then every time we went out, he’d drive today, and he let me operate it every second time. Even in the wintertime, when it was freezing cold, we had lots of snow and had to sweep

switches up, he’d be out there sweeping snow and I was inside, nice and warm. And it was my job sweeping it,” recalled Asbenlieder. It was a smaller train delivering coal from the Bienfait mine site into the Town of Bienfait, but these years still stand out the most. “The best part that I really liked was towards the end when I was running the locomotive … I really liked it when me and Bruce worked together,” said Asbenlieder. He didn’t get to do that work every day, as there were many other jobs that had to be done and the employees were rearranged accordingly. When LaCoste moved on and took on an electrician

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position, which was his trade, Asbenlieder bid on operating the train that he did for a few of years all the way up to retirement at the age of 65. Many characters and life paths intersected at the mines throughout the years. Some Asbenlieder remembers as really cranky, while other coworkers were more open and willing to help, but he usually got along with everybody. At least a couple of dozen names came up during the interview as Asbenlieder was talking about his times at the mines. Some people bid on different jobs a lot and switched often, and Asbenlieder changed just a few positions, but he said that once people started working at the mines,

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they usually stayed employed there for a long time. And even though 36 years at one place sounds like a long-term career, some people Asbenlieder worked with have been there for 45-plus years. The sense of stability and security that work at the mines gave the employees, on top of the interest, options for growth and sense of doing something valuable, is something that many other industries are lacking. Throughout all his years, Asbenlieder was never laid off. He said there was always some work to do, and the seniority system also motivated people to stay. “It was a good job,” said Asbenlieder.

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MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 Brian Gunness the longest-service miner at the Estevan site, retired after a 48-year career By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Mining was not only a big part of Brian Gunness’ life, but it’s been an important part of his family, too. The local resident retired on Dec. 28, 2019, after a career that started in June 1966. There was a break of several years, after he was laid off in the spring of 1968, but when he returned in 1972, the mines would become his work home for more than 47 years. “I could have come back in 1970, but I didn’t. I had a full-time job, and the mines couldn’t tell me if it was permanent or not. But I came back in 1972,” said Gunness. That full-time job away from the mines in the late 1960s and early 1970s was

at a lumber yard. When the mines came calling in 1972, he decided to return because he had a child already and the wages were better at the mines. Gunness’ introduction to life at the mines came long before he started working there. His dad, Clyde, worked as a miner for more than 30 years, and the Gunness family lived near the old M&S Mine Site, in a community created for the mine employees. It wasn’t a great paying job at first, but by the time he retired, the wages were pretty good and the work was really good. The people and the nature of the work kept him in the mining industry for so long. “When you get seniority, you can bid on doing

different things. You’re not just stuck at doing one thing day after day.” During his career, he operated a dozer for many years, and “played around” with a grader and a scraper. Gunness spent time as a coal hauler, and he was a drag line oiler and operator. His final years at the mines were spent operating a backhoe. In other words, he was able to work with all sorts of big machinery, and provide the material that fuels so much of the province’s power grid. Safety and technology have gone through the biggest changes. Back in 1966, safety wasn’t anywhere near what it is now, although people were ver y careful around the mine site. The equipment has

Brian Gunness with his wife Brenda, who’s been with him throughout his mining career.

come a long ways as well. “Everything that they do there is safety-conscious, where before it wasn’t. The hours are longer, because you work more than eight-hour shifts. Now they’ve changed it to a 10 1/2-hour (shifts), and some work a 12-hour. It’s changed a lot since the old days.” But those changes are for the better. The equipment is more operator-friendly. “Back then, the equipment was just hang on,” he said with a laugh. Gunness decided to retire now because of back pain. His L1, L5 and L6 vertebrae are troubling him, and his lower back has arthritis, so he couldn’t take the wear and tear of the job any longer. While he says his age told him it was also time to

retire, he believes he could still be working if it weren’t for the back woes. “I loved the job I did with the trackhoe, and I enjoyed doing the work and I enjoyed working with the guys that I worked around. But my back gave out, and that was it, so I had no choice.” His son, Christopher, has been working at the mines, too, but has a long ways to catch his dad’s tenure; Christopher has only been at the mines for a little more than 20 years. “In fact, when I went off on sick leave, he bid my job and got it on the trackhoe. He’s enjoying that. It ’s a straight day job, so he loves it. The midnight shifts were hard on him,” said Gunness. Gunness didn’t push his

son to work at the mines, nor did he try to dissuade him, but he was happy to see his son become a miner. “There’s equipment, so you’re not out in the winter doing jobs and stuff. And he’s got air-conditioning for summer, so he’s enjoying it,” said Gunness. W h e n G u n n e s s re tired last year, he believes he was the longest-serving employee at Westmoreland’s Estevan mine site. There hasn’t been a chance for the mines to recognize him for his retirement because of COVID-19. If he had the chance to do it again, Gunness said he would. It’s been a good job for so many around here, and he hopes others will still get the chance to experience it.

Brian Gunness retired from the mines at the end of last year following a 48-year career that saw him work with a variety of equipment. Photo submitted

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MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 Pinto mine monument seen better days This private tribute to the history of underground mining has been deteriorating throughout the past years. The little monument is located in the Roche Percee area not far from where the Pinto settlement used to be. The original coal car is sitting on the side of the hill at what mimics a mine entrance. While real underground mine sites back in the day usually didn’t have any plywood, this monument gives an understanding of operations from the past. However, with no maintenance, it may soon become a notion from the past. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Mine union shifts attention to their next project Now that the restoration of the Coal Car monument at the intersection of Souris Avenue South and Fourth Street is complete, the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) Local 7606 has turned their attention to their next project. The union wants to refurbish the tombstone in the Bienfait cemetery, at the gravesite of the three miners who died in the Estevan Riot on Sept. 29, 1931. Dave Dukart with the local union, who headed up the coal car project, said the gravesite is a huge plot, since it has the graves of the

three men who died: Julian Gryshko, Peter Markunas and Nick Nargan. “It’s a great big cement monument … and the cement is flaking. It ’s been painted over the years, but it hasn’t been painted since about 1996 or 1997, in that area, so it’s well past it’s time to have some upgrading done to it,” said Dukart. A plaque, which was installed in honour of the 65th anniversary of the riot, is located at the site with a plastic covering that it is getting hard to read, he said. The plaque offers background on the labour strife that led

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to the riot. There is also a wroughtiron railing around the gravesite itself that is made of metal, and it’s flaking as well, Dukart said. Next year also marks the 90th anniversary of the riot, so UMWA hopes to get some people to step forward for a ceremony to commemorate the milestone. Dignitaries and union leaders would be invited. “These people lost their lives trying to organize a union for better working conditions and better living conditions back in the day. So hopefully we’ll get something going. It takes a lot of work, a lot of time to organize something like that.” Dukart is confident that the members would be able to fund the cost of the proj-

ect. Everything is already there, so it will just take some paint, concrete work and elbow grease to get the area back into good shape. It shouldn’t be as big of a project as the coal car refurbishment, which was finished earlier this year. The coal car, which also honours the victims of the riot, was returned to its home in late April. As for the coal car project, it was significant, but Dukart said it turned out really well. People have offered favourable comments, since it now stands out. “People are very happy with it. They’re very pleased with the way it turned out. It looks great. It’s nice and new, and the plaque itself turned out very, very well. We’re very pleased with it,” Dukart said.

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The restoration of the monument for the three miners killed in the Estevan Riot of 1931 is the next project for the Estevan chapter of the United Mine Workers of America Local 7606. Photo submitted

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MINING WEEK MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2020 Drones part of mines growing use of technology By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca

Technology is ever evolving and playing a growing role in the operations of businesses and industries, and it’s no different at Westmoreland Mining Holdings LLC’s Estevan mine. Among the technologies that have been adopted are drones, and they have made the mines’ operations more efficient. Mohsin Hashmi, who is a junior mining engineer, has been working with the drones for about a year, and has quickly become proficient in their use. They run two different types of drones – the traditional quad copters and hybrid drones. “The difference between quad copters and hybrid drones is … quad copters are your recreational drones that you can utilize in the mining context to get videos of areas of concern, which, in the past, people had to go on foot to capture. Right now, with drone technology, we can see dragline issues; rather than a person climbing up, they can view the dragline problems, structural issues. We can monitor environmental progress at a micro scale,” said Hashmi. “With the hybrid done cutting edge technology that we have, it’s called vertical takeoff and landing technology, it’s the second type of drone that we use. This is for a larger coverage of area. We’re talking about 700 or 800 hectares. In

the past, traditional surveying would have taken a week to capture production data, stockpile data, reclamation data, especially about our sustainability objectives.” Planning and designing for the mine roads and pits would have taken weeks, but thanks to Wingtra 1 vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) hybrid unit, the drone captures hundreds of hectares of data with accuracy and very good resolution in 20 minutes. Production, stockpiles, reclamation, design and other aspects have benefitted from drone use. Using the VTOL technology at Westmoreland, Hashmi will go out and survey the stockpiles with the drone, survey the pits, capture the photos with the drone and process the software using static satellite data to geo-reference each photo taken. “We use photogrammetry technology … to develop 3-D models. So you take a tonne of pictures from the drone, but you can stitch those photos together with these processing softwares, where they can make a 3-D model of the area that you’re working in.” It feeds into their analytics to calculate how much coal they have in the pits, the road width, the amount of coal the dragline has uncovered and the amount of reclamation they have done to meet their sustainability objectives. Hashmi said the mines adopted drone technology at

Mohsin Hashmi with one of the drones that have a growing influence on the operations of Westmoreland Mining Holdings LLC’s Estevan mines. Photo submitted an early stage back in 2014. In the past two years, they have adopted the VTOL to make the drone usage more accurate and safe, to cover more area and get as good of data to feed the operations. An intern who works with Hashmi also knows how to operate the VTOL drone, but the data generated by the drone is used by the entire technical services department, as well as SaskPower. As for the conventional

drone, it is used by all departments at the mine, from environment to technical to dragline maintenance and inspection. “This is the trend that you can see in the industry, and we are pushing the limits,” said Hashmi. The accuracy of predicting the inventory of coal that they have is now at a centimetre, the resolution of the models that help with planning is stronger because the drones

have a high-resolution camera at 42 megapixels, and the amount of area they can cover is enhanced. As a bonus, the technology is very easy to pick up for a student or anybody who is a novice. He noted that the guidance and nurturing of the management at the Estevan mine has allowed him to explore different options and implement a lot of things that wouldn’t be possible in a larger setting, and so he has gained a

quicker understanding of how the drones work. The initial drone technology would have required a couple of hours to cover a large area. “You can have a drone basically georeference everything. Basically it’s a drone with a GPS.” And they help the mines cut costs, because not only are they more efficient, but they’re more affordable than traditional forms of surveying.

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By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca

This time of the year is always emotional, with graduates of all kinds saying good-bye to their mentors and making a step forward into adult life. But this year turns to be even more difficult with no actual graduation ceremonies happening anywhere in the country and most of the world. The past weekend was the time of the traditional Drewitz School Dance recital. For 37 years it’s been the hottest selling ticket in town. And for graduates as well as for dance studio choreographer, director and owner Lorie-Gay DrewitzGallaway, not to be able to have closure to their year,

work and time together was heartbreaking. “(The recital) was always a big part, and also an emotional part because of all the graduates, which some of them I had since they were pre-school. And this is their moment where I let them shine, it’s kind of their awards night,” said DrewitzGallaway. “This year has been very difficult, but I’m so proud of everything they have done, whether they’ve been highly competitive dancers or just my recreation dancers. The most wonderful thing a teacher can see is how they grow as a dancer and their own private journey to get there. And they all in my eyes have succeeded and won. “So as they step forward

I’m so proud of everything they have done. - Lorie-Gay Drewitz-Gallaway

FROM THE DESK OF LORI CARR As our province continues to feel the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am happy to report the province is seeing the results of our collective actions to reduce the spread of this virus. Together, we have done what was needed to keep each other safe and now we can move into the next phases of re-opening Saskatchewan. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all our essential workers from across this province. From those battling the pandemic on the front lines to our community grocery stores, your commitment to public safety and service has not gone unnoticed. As your MLA and your neighbour, I am grateful for your efforts. By remaining physically distant we most certainly have come together for the future of our province. As we cautiously continue to re-open our economy, we must continue these important health practices and follow the restrictions set out by Saskatchewan Health Authority. As the Legislature reconvenes on June 15, our province is well-positioned to recover from the impact of COVID-19. I will continue to work for our constituents in these coming weeks on ensuring that our families, communities, and economy can remain strong. Economic Stimulus Recently, our government announced a two-year capital plan to stimulate Saskatchewan’s economic recovery from the impact of COVID-19. This $7.5 billion economic booster shot balances the need for smaller, short term projects to jump-start the economy with longer-term projects to provide the services and supports our families and communities require. Investments will be made in schools, highways, hospitals, Crown utility projects, and municipal infrastructure and will get Saskatchewan people back to work. Municipalities can access additional funding through the Municipal Economic Enhancement Program (MEEP). This investment of $150 million can be used for shovel ready infrastructure projects and initiatives. Funding is allocated on a per capita basis and must be used over the next two years. This means our local municipalities will receive: • Estevan $1,650,433 • R.M. of Estevan $196,908 • Bienfait $109,521 • Midale $86,812 • Macoun $38,663 • Torquay $36,651 • R.M. of Benson $67,840 • R.M of Coalfields $52,892 • Just to name a few Re-Open Saskatchewan Our government introduced a methodical phased-in approach called Re-Open Saskatchewan to lift restrictions slowly and responsibly on our businesses and services. The first phase focused on re-opening previously restricted medical services and allowing for some outdoor activities such as the operation of golf courses, parks and campgrounds. The second phase included re-opening retail and select personal care services. Our government has set a target date of June 8, for Phase 3 as part of our Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan. This phase will include the reopening of: • remaining personal services; • restaurants and food services at a 50 per cent capacity limit; • gym and fitness facilities; and • places of worship. The size of indoor public and private gatherings may be increased to 15 people, and outdoor gatherings will increase to 30. Physical distancing and good health hygiene must continue to be practiced for our province to continue its plan to re-open. Find the most up-to-date version of the Re-Open Saskatchewan plan at www.saskatchewan.ca/re-open. If you are looking for support as we move into the next phase, I urge all constituents to please utilize our government resources listed on Saskatchewan.ca. Our government has expanded capacity within our healthcare system to allow for more candidates to qualify for a COVID-19 test.

Lori Carr, MLA Estevan Constituency Office

306.634.7311

loricarrmla@sasktel.net

into the future, I want them to make sure that they really take all the things that I know they remember, like our fun times and our rules, and friendships and all the communication that they’ve learned with other people and other instructors, take that forward and know that now I know they are going to succeed out there because they are well-equipped to go forward from here.” This year’s Drewitz School of Dance graduates are Angelle Avery, Bryn Lamontagne, Faith Haberstock, Gabrielle Bokhorst, Kailey Kowalchuk, Kiera Renauld and Macey Menzies. When all restrictions are lifted, she plans to have a private supper with all of them and their parents to be able to just sit back and talk. “So we can have closure and we can have that last hug because it’s so important to me,” said Drewitz-Gallaway with emotion. Despite the recent challenges, for the Drewitz School of Dance, the past year was super busy and successful. They had their Ballet Summer School Extravaganza in August, preschool Back to Basics and fall registration, which saw a lot of students joining and rejoining. In October they had quite a few students attend the Canadian Dance Teacher Association’s dance jam at Evraz Place, where kids had an opportunity to meet instructors from all over the world. The United Way Estevan’s Telethon was another traditional big event on the students’ calendar. “It’s our big fall performance, and the children get really excited about that,” said Drewitz-Gallaway. There also were two exam sessions in the fall, and for the first time, they partook in a multicultural dance event held in Weyburn at the end of September. The Estevan Kinette Club’s Princess and Superheroes Ball and the Robbie Burns Night were on the agenda in 2020, along with more examinations. “We had the last examination session, Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet exams, happen on March 10, 11 and 12. And we were all just getting in costumes and we were getting all pumped to get the choreography finished. The 13th the examiner left, headed back to Toronto, and that Monday they announced the closure of all schools,” recalled DrewitzGallaway. Unlike many other schools around, they managed to get all their exams done for the year and had their all planned events except for the recital. “I feel quite happy that out of 12 main events we do a year, 11 got completed,” said Drewitz-Gallaway. Parents and students were quite happy as well since in professional dance the examination is the required step, without which one can’t proceed to the next level or pursue a career in dance. Nevertheless, the inability to have their 37th dance recital was very tough on everyone involved. “My heart just breaks, because the recital is the big event that includes all the children. We do have a lot of children that are non-exam, that just want to be taught professionally and have that opportunity if they ever wish to do them. And a lot of times, their big event for the year is the annual recital,” said Drewitz-Gallaway. She recalled how when she had to close the doors of the studio she was in shock for a while. “In the world of dance, we engage the children by hands-on correction and getting them motivated through

body language,” said Drewitz-Gallaway. With all schools being closed many teachers proceeded with virtual classes, but Drewitz-Gallaway chose a different approach. “I chose to do what we call an email plan, where the class plans are given to children. I was cleaning things up, giving them activities to do ... I started that back probably 10 days after the closure just to engage them and get their minds off how bad things were. And that probably worked for 60 per cent of the children.” Drewitz-Gallaway also assumed that many parents were already overwhelmed with their own situations and online education, and she didn’t want to put an even bigger burden on them. After talking to some of the parents, she chose to give the money for the last term back, which was greatly appreciated by the families. “I just said, ‘Dance is going to be here again, I know that. I know, we are going to start in the fall (in one form or another). But right now, you need to be with your family, you need to figure out their education and you need to prepare for going back into the workforce and everything like this virtually.’ And it has really worked.” Talking about re-opening the studio, DrewitzGallaway said her plan A is considering the worst-case scenario in the province, and her plan C assumes life getting back to normal, so whatever future brings she is ready for it. In the meantime, the pre-registration for the next year is open and DrewitzGallaway is getting parents and students prepared for virtual classes, in case real practices will still be a no-go when the time comes. “Right now, I tell them to get their virtual space ready, so that when we go back and start training, they have a little piece of plywood and a kitchen chair and they are good to go.” Drewitz-Gallaway extended her gratitude to her staff Hunter Hildebrand, Jamie Lainton, Mariah Hildebrand, Pat Beahm, Nicole Grass and Shirley Hildebrand for their efforts this year.

2020 DREWITZ SCHOOL OF DANCE GRADUATES

Drewitz-Gallaway pleased with dancers’ accomplishments

Angelle Avery

Bryn Lamontagne

Faith Haberstock

Gabrielle Bokhorst

Kailey Kowalchuk

Kiera Renauld

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Henry John Walter 1933 - 2020 Henry passed away peacefully at the Lampman Community Health Centre, Lampman, Sask. on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at the age of 87. Henry will be forever loved and remembered by his wife of 62 years, Justine Walter and their family: daughter Maureen Fichter and her children: Angeline (Matthew) and their daughter Charlotte; Kaitlin (Cody); son Lorne (Michele) Walter and their children: Doug (Erin) and their sons: Brody, Keaton and Preston; Chris (Angela) and their daughters: Genevieve and Caroline; Mathew (Maria) and their children: Kade and Quinn; son Darren (Della) Walter. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Alec Wurst; sister-in-law Marie Walter, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Henry was predeceased by his grandson Mark Fichter; parents: John and Veronica Walter; siblings: Agnes (Albert) Selk, Dorothy Wurst and Charles Walter. Henry was raised in the Lampman area. He married Justine Kapfhamer on September 7, 1957. Henry was passionate about his life as a farmer, but also had a great love for autobody work. He loved animals and was always tender-hearted towards them - always ensuring that his children had the same respect for them. He always enjoyed camping, especially the enjoyment of meeting new people at the campground. Above all, he loved his family, and always felt that family gatherings should always include all family members. For this reason, his family has decided to postpone his Funeral Mass until a later date, when it is once again safe for all their family and friends to gather. He was laid to rest in a private family ceremony on May 23, 2020 at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish Cemetery, Lampman. In lieu of flowers, Justine and her family would appreciate donations in Henry's memory to the Lampman Community Health Centre Trust, Box 100, Lampman, Sask., S0C 1N0. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for the Walter family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

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Notices / NomiNatioNs Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

Feed & Seed FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

Career OppOrtunities Heavy Duty Mechanics, Heavy Equipment Operators and 1A Drivers required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip: winch, dump, gravel trucks and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided. Wage negotiable. Clean drivers abstract a must.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

With sadness in our hearts, but also with gratitude for a lifetime of special memories, we announce that William completed his earthly journey on May 24, 2020 at home, surrounded by the love of his family. William leaves a legacy of love with his wife Edrina Sinclair (Brittin); daughter Maria Walter (Mathew) and their children Kade & Quinn; daughter Michelle Sinclair (Brian Straight) and her daughter Natalie; son David Sinclair (Adrianna); daughter Nicole Rogalski (Zane); father Donald Sinclair (Donna); brother Michael Sinclair (Bev); sister Bernadette Skuban (Joseph); mother-in-law Jean Brittin; sister-in-law Andrea Brittin (Bob); brothers-in-law: Laird Brittin (Birgit), Blair Brittin (Marie), Jeremy Brittin (Tara) and Kelvin Brittin (Donna), along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Gladys Sinclair and his father-in-law Edward Brittin. A private family graveside service took place at the Estevan City Cemetery on May 27, 2020. A public celebration of William’s life is being considered for a later date when it is once again safe for us to gather. In lieu of flowers, William’s family would greatly appreciate donations to the William Sinclair Reading Space at the Estevan Family Centre. This can be done by visiting the GoFundMe campaign page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/william-sinclair-reading-space or directly via the Estevan Family Centre’s website at: https://www.estevanfamilycentre.com/support-us or by mail: 1322 - 7th Street, Estevan, SK, S4A 0W7 (please be sure to indicate that your donation is for the William Sinclair Reading Space). YOU GUYS ROCK!!!! Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for the Sinclair family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

Esther Schlamp 1946 – 2020 With heavy hearts, the family wishes to announce that Esther Schlamp, late of Bienfait, SK passed away at home surrounded by her sons on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at the age of 70 years. Esther was predeceased by her husband Calvin; parents, Matthew and Mary (nee Ulmer) Wendel and sister Janet Ulmer. Esther will be greatly missed by her sons, Grant (Sonya) and their family Mariah, Tanner, Logan and Summer, Mark (Elaine) and their family; Jonah, Jenna and Jared and Michael (Kate Smith); and great grandchildren Madeleine, Jack and Alexis; sisters, Sylvia Rueker, Betty Kittler and Diane (Bob) Hoedel; brother Dave (Sherì) Wendel; brother-in-law Elroy Ulmer. Fond memories will be cherished by Esther’s numerous extended family and friends. Due to restrictions placed on us by the Covid-19 Pandemic, a Private Family Graveside service will be held at the Bienfait Cemetery. Those so wishing may make donations in memory of Esther to the Broken Arrow Youth Ranch, Box 44, Wood Mountain, SK S0H 4L0. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for the Schlamp family – Yvonne Clark, Funeral Director.

Names of alleged impaired drivers released The Estevan Police Service has released the names of three people charged for allegedly driving while impaired this month. Conner Friess, 20, of Estevan was charged with operating a conveyance while impaired on May 7. Jordan Stein, 19, of Estevan was charged May 10 with operating a conveyance while impaired by a drug. Matthew Thiessen, 20, of Estevan was charged May 16 with operating a conveyance while impaired. None of the charges have been proven in court.

In other recent police news, officers arrested a 20-year-old woman from Stoughton in the downtown core May 26 for possession of methamphetamine and failing to comply with a probation order. She was released with conditions for court in August. Police also arrested a 32-year-old man from Estevan for failing to comply with an undertaking. He was held in custody until he was sober. Members issued a 72hour driving suspension to a 33-year-old Estevan woman after a traffic stop in the

900-block of 13th Avenue. The vehicle she was operating was impounded for three days and possible Criminal Code charges are pending. Officers responded to a complaint of a noisy residence in the 300-block of Petterson Drive. The resident was warned of the bylaw and spoken to about using marijuana in an apartment building. Police attended to a disturbance in south Estevan on May 29. A 45-year-old Estevan man was arrested for assault. He was charged and scheduled for court in August, and released with conditions.

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• • • The Carlyle RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance with a series of thefts from the Forget area. According to a message from the Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network, between the fall of 2019 and the present, there have been incidents of collector car parts being stolen from a rural location. Anyone with information regarding this or similar thefts, please contact 310-RCMP, the Carlyle RCMP at 306-4536707 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

A20 June 3, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

The Estevan Extreme Volleyball Club would like to thank the following sponsors: 13U • Lavoie Mobile Cleaning • CIBC • Connor Kirby Trucking 14U Storm • Power Connect Ltd. Connor Kirby Trucking • Mr. Mike’s • Crown Advertising 14U Thunder • R&H Oilfield Consulting Ltd Caliber Energy • Josh LeBlanc – Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate Western Star Hotel • United Mine Workers • Mr. Mike’s 15U • Energy Electric CEDA/Littlehawk • Certified Energy • Fire Sky Energy C & W Oilfield • Jonboys Mechanical • Trent Elliot TS&M • Pure Chem 16U • AC Power • AMP 17U • Carson Safety • Woodley Well Servicing • McComb Auto Connor Kirby Trucking • Senchuk Ford • Western Financial Campbell Oilfield Rentals

www.estevanmercury.ca

June 3, 2020 A21

Material for your weekly game page big flower What did the e flower? tl lit e th say to A: Hi, bud.

What dinosaur ha the best vocabula d ry

A: The thesaurus.

Why are ghosts bad liars?

A: You can see right through them.

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Wednesday, June 3, 2020

A22

Entertaining sports fans from the Cheap Seats Don’t tell Layne Wolos, Dustin Wilson, Marcus Friess and Jeff Pratt there’s nothing to talk about in the sports world during the COVID-19 pandemic. The four Estevan sports fans and friends have started The Cheap Seats podcast, a weekly one-hour show that covers a variety of sports topics in a humourous fashion through insight, banter and quick wit. “I’ve wanted to do it for a really long time, and I’ve been really fighting with how I wanted to do it, and how I wanted to get it started,” said Wolos. “It came on fairly easily after these guys decided to join in. It’s a really easy group to do it with.” Four episodes have been released already, and they don’t expect it to stop soon. Wolos couldn’t imagine doing it with anybody else, because they’re very knowledgeable and easy to get along with. Wolos, Friess and Wilson did the first episode, and

Pratt joined for the second. “When they asked me, with the three of them being on it, I said ‘Why wouldn’t I?’ And it honestly hit me, too, that Layne and I will argue about the sky being blue, so I figured get me on there.” He’s pals with the other two, so it felt like a safe environment. They mostly talk about professional sports, but they want to start to incorporate local sports when the Estevan Bruins and other organizations are playing again. They say their format might change once live sports start up again. “Right now, it’s funny, we’ll record, and the next day we’re already thinking about stuff to do for the next one. Funny how the week goes on and we tweak it and develop a whole different agenda,” said Friess. Once live sports return, there will be a lot more to talk about, so they might add another episode, because they don’t want stories to get stale.

They have also considered weekly picks and matchups. “The fact that the show flows the way that it does as it is right now, I think, is a major indicator as to what we can actually do when we get to have sports to watch,” said Friess. Pratt believes one of the highlights of the show is the weekly top five, when they discuss who they are and their likes and dislikes, again, often incorporating humour. As for their audience, t h e y t a r g e t a n o ve r - 1 4 crowd, and there might be rare coarse language, but for the most part, it’s clean and they have had no problem showing the program to younger family members. Friess noted that when they initially talked about the podcast, he would have been happy if they would have had 100 views on YouTube. But the first few episodes have had a few hundred views each, and they

ESTEVAN MOTORS

hope it can continue to grow. As of Monday night, the second episode was the highest with 342 views. They believe it did the best because they had a really funny episode, and they had given a name to it. “We didn’t set out with this with the intention that we were going to be stars,” Wolos said to laughter from Friess and Pratt. “Let’s just be clear.” “It honestly started out as just let’s kick this off, let’s see if we’re any good first of all when we did the first episode, and if we’re having fun and if it’s worth it, and if people watch and listen, keep going,” added Friess. If they get no viewers, they won’t be that heartbroken, Pratt said, but the goal is to keep getting better so more people keep watching. Giveaways and trivia could find their way into the podcast in the future. Most of the people who have been watching it so far have been local. Wolos

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Clockwise from top left, Dustin Wilson, Layne Wolos, Marcus Friess and Jeff Pratt are part of The Cheap Seats podcast that has been entertaining local sports fans for the past month. Photo submitted has some contacts through baseball, football and hockey pools in the U.S., but outside of that, he’s been getting local people. Friess suggested early on they re-evaluate when they get to the 10-episode mark. This week they’ll get halfway to 10. “Once we get to 10 episodes, we can assess where we’re at, what do we have to go forward, what do we have for support, what are we getting for feedback? And we are getting feedback fairly regularly,” said Friess. Initial episodes have been done via Zoom call to ensure they follow social distancing requirements. Wolos has the technology to then upload the podcast to YouTube. They’re looking at advancements, and once they all have the same equipment, they can look at

adding more. Since Wolos doesn’t have the ability to cut and edit, it’s going to be completed on the first take. “If you say something wrong, it’s on there. So the goal is not to say something offside,” said Pratt. Wolos says they’re not going to be perfect, so it brings comedic element to the show, but also makes it more impressive. “I’ve actually had people say that ‘For you guys not being able to edit it, that’s pretty good.’” They have a Twitter page and a Facebook page for the Cheap Seats podcast, and they have subscribers for the YouTube page, which is known as All Sports Considered. Wolos noted the feedback they receive helps with the content they will discuss.

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Tammy Murray of Estevan Junior High went all out in a race during the EJH invitational track and field meet May 25, 1977 against Immaculate Heart Junior High. Chasing the EJH speedster are Paula Sali of IHJH and Jennifer Pullam of EJH

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Cheers & Jeers

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

A23

Cheers Cheers to the businesses and services that will be reopening soon. It will be nice to go to the gym, sit in a restaurant and take in our empty bottles and cans for recycling once again. Cheers to the United Way Estevan for all it has been doing to help people during the past three months, including letters for seniors, grants for organizations and the groceries for people in need. Cheers to those who have been working hard to get campgrounds in great shape for the start of camping season. It’s one of those activities that will provide a distraction from the challenges we’re facing. Cheers to the students from Pleasantdale School who entered the People’s Choice Art Show that was offered online. You can tell they put in a lot of time, even though there wasn’t a traditional art show. Cheers to everybody who has supported the Salvation Army’s Food Bank during these tough times, because more people need their services than ever. Cheers to all of the miners out there, not only for the work that you do on the job, but for your efforts to enhance the community through donating to causes and volunteering with organizations.

Jeers Jeers to people who park their industrial vehicles on residential streets. Jeers to shoppers who don’t pay attention to the arrows that are clearly marked on the floors of grocery stores and other retail businesses. And if you get caught, don’t complain about the measures being a joke. Jeers to those who want to see coal mining come to an end. It’s a big part of the economy, not only for Estevan, but the region as a whole. To submit a cheer or a jeer, please email it to dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca, or visit www.estevanmercury.ca.

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Surrounded by songs Years ago I found a postcard that I posted above my computer and it’s perfect for what I’d like to share this week. Here goes: “A bird does not sing because it has an answer but because it has a song.” (Chinese proverb). While entering our third month of self-isolation and daily updates as to the number of folks who’ve become infected with COVID-19 or sadly, have died from the disease, I’m impressed with the amount of music that’s being generated and shared with our world. First, there’s the simple instruction to wash our hands often, scrubbing them thor-

Linda Wegner Words of Worth oughly for as long as it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice. Whoever thought of associating clean fingernails with a festive cake? Then, again, why not? From music-rich Italy and across Europe, to Vancouver and Calgary and other parts of Canada, across the U.S., and around the world, folks are standing on balconies to sing or play instruments. In

other cases, they are uniting through computers to sing solos, duets, trios or offer renditions from choirs and orchestras. After all, nothing encourages like beautiful music; indeed, there are few things that can relieve the mind, encourage the heart or calm the soul like belting out a song. All of a sudden, it makes perfect sense to sing with

exuberance while scrubbing fingers. The Psalmist David wrote about the blessing of melodies. In fact, the Scriptures and the Psalms in particular, are rich with references to music. In Psalm 32, he pours out his heart to Jehovah for protection and guidance. “You shall preserve me from trouble, you shall surround me with songs of deliverance.” We’re not promised immunity from suffering but rather, God’s rich presence through it all. W hatever our circumstances, ranging from COVID-19 to personal pain, we can claim the same promises.

William Sinclair was a big part of the community, wherever he lived A well-known and beloved member of the community passed away in late May. William Sinclair died on May 24 following a battle with cancer that spanned several years. Born in Scotland, Sinclair came to Canada when he was 21, and eventually came to Estevan. Throughout his life, Sinclair worked as a musician, a writer, a lay minister in the Catholic church, a motivational speaker and a podcaster, among other jobs. In an interview with Southeast Lifestyles earlier this year, he noted that he used to have a lot of anger, but he was able to find peace and develop a positive outlook in life. He used that outlook to help others. Sinclair and his wife Edrina operated a Bible camp in Kenosee Lake for

a few years, and they also penned a column, Dirty Socks and Banana Bread, that appeared in Lifestyles from 2011-2015. They moved to Moose Jaw in 2012 to launch a career as speakers, and then moved to Kenosee Lake. They moved back to Estevan earlier this year to be closer to their family. The Sinclairs had four children, Maria, Michelle, David and Nicole, and three grandchildren. Since he died, tributes to Sinclair have been pouring in on Facebook and other websites where his obituary is posted. People have been recognizing him for the outlook that he had, and for his generous nature. A graveside was held on May 27 at the Estevan City Cemetery. The service was posted online so that people

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who couldn’t attend could watch it. In lieu of flowers, his family asked for donations to the William Sinclair Reading Space at the Estevan Family Centre. This can be done by visiting a GoFundMe campaign page that was created, or the Estevan Family Resource Centre’s website. The family centre was among the many organizations that Sinclair and his family have supported over the years.

William Sinclair

TENDER Tenders will be received by SaskPower for the sale of hay. The successful bidder will be required to cut, bale and remove bales by 2020 September 01. There will be one cutting only and it must be completed by 2020 August 15. Several parcels of land are included, mainly located southwest of Boundary Dam Power Station. Two lots are southeast of Boundary Dam Reservoir. Bids will be lump sum for each parcel. For further details contact Neil Worsley at (306) 421-8042. Written tenders contained in a sealed envelope marked HAY TENDER on the outside will be received until 4:00 p.m., Thursday, June 18, 2020, c/o Neil Worsley, Shand Power Station, Box 1310, Estevan, S4A 2K9.

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Debit now available

Highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Payment terms: Receipt by SaskPower of certified cheque within 5 working days of bid acceptance by SaskPower. Note 1. SaskPower does not guarantee any tendered hay to be free of noxious weeds or poisonous plants and is not responsible for any damage caused by insects or other wildlife. Note 2. The bidder shall ensure that they operate with due consideration for the condition of the property and not enter or run equipment if field conditions are such that damage to the land will occur (i.e. wet or soft field conditions). Note 3. Bales still on the ground after 2020 November 01 will be assessed a fee of 50¢ per bale per month, payable in advance.

A24 June 3, 2020

www.estevanmercury.ca

Spring storms coming close to Estevan The rich stormy clouds were in and out of Estevan this past week quite a few times. A severe thunderstorm watch was issued for the area Sunday night but ended up missing the Energy City. And while weather warnings are never a good thing, the pastures, seeded fields, gardens and lawns in the area are already thirsty for some moisture. However, the forecast doesn’t promise any rain for the next few days. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Unreserved Public Farm Auction

ONLINE BIDDING ONLY

Ron Arndt Farms Ltd

Ron & Cathy Arndt

Weyburn, SK | June 15, 2020

Bidding begins 3 days prior to sale day · Lots begin closing on sale day at 12

2012 John Deere S670, 2006 John Deere 9760STS & 2005 John Deere 9760STS

2007 Challenger MT865B, 2006 Challenger MT865B & 2004 Challenger MT765

2– 1981 Versatile 895

2012 John Deere 4940 120 Ft

2009 Westward M150 30 Ft & 2005 Premier 2952i 30 Ft

2008 Bourgault 3310 75 Ft w/6550

2015 International 4400, 1986 Mack RD688S & 1978 Ford Louisville

2000 Sterling LT9513 & Trailtech 37 Ft

2015 Mack CHU613 Pinnacle & 2013 Dakota

1997 Degelman SM7000 70 Ft

1998 Brent 774

Directions: From WEYBURN, SK, at the Jct of Hwy 35 & Hwy 13, go 13 km (8 miles) East on Hwy 13, then 1.8 km (1.1 miles) North on Range Rd 2132, Yard on West side. GPS: 49.683767, -103.700097 Legal Land Description: SE 34-08-13 W2

Tractors

2007 Challenger MT865B Track, s/n AGCC0865CNSKG1182, 525 hp, Caterpillar C18, powershift, AutoGuide display, AutoGuide receiver, autosteer, 5 hyd outlets, 1 aux hyd, frt weights, 36 in. tracks, 4927 hrs showing. 2006 Challenger MT865B Track, s/n AGCMT865KBDS61261, 525 hp, Caterpillar C18, powershift, Novatel receiver, autosteer, 6 hyd outlets, 1 aux hyd, frt weights, idler weights, 36 in. tracks, 5702 hrs showing. 2004 Challenger MT765 Track, s/n AGCMT765CAMS41048, 316 hp, Caterpillar C9, powershift, Novatel receiver, autosteer, 4 hyd outlets, 1 aux hyd, 1000 PTO, 3 pt hitch, frt weights, 30 in. tracks, 5988 hrs showing. 1981 Versatile 895 4WD, s/n 091040, 310 hp, 12 spd standard, Outback STS display, Hemisphere receiver, autosteer, 5 hyd outlets, 1 aux hyd, LED lightbar, 20.8R38 duals, 9920 hrs showing, complete engine overhaul. 1981 Versatile 895 4WD, s/n 091016, 310 hp, 12 spd standard, 4 hyd outlets, 1 aux hyd, 20.8R38 duals, 10,045 hrs showing, complete engine overhaul. 1990 Case IH 5130 MFWD, s/n JJF1001246, 99 hp, 510 ldr, bkt, joystick, s/n CJA0003009, pallet fork, 16 spd synchro shift LH rev, 2 hyd outlets, 540/1000 PTO, 14.9x24 F, 18.4x38 R, 7582 hrs showing.

Combines & Headers

2012 John Deere S670, s/n 1H0S670SEB0745777, 2005 914 14 ft hdr, s/n H00914W710469, reverser, VSR, auto HHC, 25 ft auger, grain tank exts, chaff spreader, fine cut chopper, yield & moisture, GS3 CommandCenter display, AutoTrac SF1 activation, StarFire iTC receiver, lateral tilt fdr house, 520/85R42 duals F, 480/70R30 R, 1595 sep hrs showing. 2006 John Deere 9760STS, s/n H09760S716253, 1994 914 14 ft hdr, s/n H00914W656057, reverser, VSR, auto HHC, rock trap, 22 ft auger, grain tank exts, chaff spreader, chopper, yield & moisture, CommandCentre display, 800/70R38 F, 18.4x26 R, 3114 sep hrs showing. 2005 John Deere 9760STS, s/n H09760S711430, 914 14 ft hdr, s/n H00914W710470, reverser, VSR, auto HHC, rock trap, 22 ft auger, grain tank exts, chaff spreader, fine cut chopper, yield & moisture, CommandCentre display, 800/65R32 F, 18.4R26 R, 3334 sep hrs showing. 2012 MacDon FD70 35 Ft Flex Draper, s/n 222857, to fit John Deere 60/70/S series combine, split P/U reel, hyd F&A, cross auger, factory transport, sgl pt hook-up. 2005 MacDon 973 36 Ft, s/n 964638, to fit John Deere 60/70/S series combine, split P/U reel, hyd F&A, factory transport, sgl pt hook-up. 2003 MacDon 972 36 Ft, s/n 154267, to fit John Deere 60/70/S series combine, split P/U reel, hyd F&A, factory transport, sgl pt hook-up.

2005 Premier 2952i 30 Ft, s/n 167066, 2004 MacDon 972 2008 Precision 27 Ft 6 In. x 8 Ft T/A Gooseneck Equipment, hdr, s/n 156686, P/U reel, split, VSR, F&A, dbl knife drive, dbl s/n 2P9FG92998P078008, spring susp, 5 ft beavertail, ramps. swath, 500/70R42 F, 16Lx16.1 R, 1866 machine hrs showing. 2009 Trailtech 20 Ft x 7 Ft T/A Equipment, s/n 2CUL31L9792026224, pintle hitch, (2) 7000 lb axles, John Sprayer 2012 John Deere 4940 120 Ft High Clearance, s/n Deere AC2-20 air comp, Honda GX270 eng, Champion 6500 watt 1N04940XCC0018747, 1200 gal stainless steel tank, 5 nozzle generator, 1000 gal diesel fuel tank, GPI 3/4 hp pump, hose, bodies, fence row nozzles, rinse tank, 5 sect ctrl, BoomTrac Pro 5 nozzle, alum tool box. sensor, GS3 2630 display, AutoTrac SF1 activation, StarFire 3000 2008 PJ Trailers 16 Ft x 7 Ft T/A Equipment, s/n 3CVC5182582120452, spring susp, ball hitch, 2 ft beavertail, receiver, hyd axle adj, 620/70R46, 2908 hrs showing. (2) 3500 lb axles, ramps. Trucks Custombuilt 24 Ft x 8 Ft 6 In. T/A Equipment. 2015 Mack CHU613 Pinnacle Day Cab T/A, s/n 1M1AN07YXFM020100, MP8 12.8 L, 505 hp, eng brake, Trailtech 37 Ft x 8 Ft 6 In. T/A Sprayer, spring susp, duals, mDrive A/T, A/R cab, A/R susp, 13000 lb frt, 46000 lb rears, 215 Honda GX160 3 in. pump, custombuilt chem handler, CM 6.5 hp 2 in. pump, 2 in. plumbing, hose, fittings, (2) 1050 gal poly in. WB, alum wheels, 63,774 km showing. 1989 Peterbilt 378 Day Cab T/A, s/n 1XPFD- tanks, custombuilt 200 gal fuel tank, qty of hose, pump & nozzle. B9X8KN284489, Caterpillar 3406B, 400 hp, Eaton Fuller 9 Custombuilt 24 Ft x 8 Ft T/A Sprayer. spd, Air Trac A/R susp, 12000 lb frt, 40000 lb rears, 185 in. WB, Baler alum frt, 670,183 km showing. 1979 Vermeer 605G Round, s/n 453, 540 PTO. 2015 International 4400 T/A Grain, s/n 1HTMSAZR6FH141008, Maxx Force, 330 hp, Allison A/T, A/R susp, 14000 Seeding, Tillage & Breaking lb frt, 40000 lb rears, 227 in. WB, alum wheels, Cancade 20 ft steel 2008 Bourgault 3310PHD 75 Ft Air Drill, s/n 39513PH-14, box, elec, roll tarp, remote end gate ctrl, rear ctrls, 36,854 km showing. 10 in. spacing, sgl shoot, mid-row banding, NH3 pkg, liquid fert 1986 Mack RD688S T/A Grain, s/n 2M2P141Y4GC004039, kit, 4.5 in. rubber packers, QDA kit, 2010 6550ST 5 comp’t tow6 cyl, diesel, 350 hp, Maxitorque Extended Range Overdrive, behind tank, s/n 39975AS-07, dbl fan, 10 in. load auger, variable camelback susp, 227 in. WB, PTO, Cancade 20 ft steel box, roll rate, blockage monitor, 591 monitor, controller, 540/65R24 F, tarp, 399,549 km showing. 900/60R32 I, 30.5Lx32 O. 1978 Ford Louisville T/A Grain, s/n U91TUCE9666, Detroit 2006 Bourgault 5710 Series II 74 Ft Air Drill, s/n 38782AHV8, Eaton Fuller 13 spd, spring over beam susp, 225 in. WB, 18 ft 09, 9.8 in. spacing, sgl shoot, mid-row banding, NH3 pkg, liquid box, roll tarp, plumbed for pup, 1,455,922 km showing. fert kit, 4 in. steel packers, 2003 5440 4 comp’t tow-behind tank, 2000 Sterling LT9513 T/A Flatbed, s/n 2FZXKXYs/n 37600AS-07, dbl fan, 8 in. load auger, 591 monitor, blockage B3YAF21971, Caterpillar C15, 475 hp, eng brake, Eaton Fuller sensor, 560/65D24 F, 30.5Lx32 duals. 18 spd, AirLiner A/R susp, 14600 lb frt, 46000 lb rears, 220 in. WB, 20 ft bed, (2) 1700 imp gal water tanks, 3 in. plumbing, banjo International 6200 72 Ft Disc Seed Drill. Bourgault FH546-52 45 Ft Cultivator. fittings, Bowie pump, 675,967 km showing. 1998 Mack RD688S 4000 Gallon T/A Water, s/n Ezee-On 3800 48 Ft Tandem Disc. 1M2P270C1WM034411, E7, 400 hp, eng brake, Maxitorque 1997 Degelman SM7000 70 Ft Heavy Harrows. 13 spd, camelback susp, 229 in. WB, PTO pump, 3 in. plumbing, Riteway 4245HL 45 Ft Land Roller. plumbed for pup, 1,502,369 km showing. Custombuilt 10 Ft Box Scraper. 2007 Dodge 3500 Laramie Mega Cab 4x4 Pickup, s/n 1980 Degelman R570H Rock Picker. 3D3MX39A77G797760, 6.7 L, diesel, A/T, 464,009 km showing.

Trailers

2013 Dakota 28 Ft Super B Grain, s/n 1D9AH3836DY554533, 30 ft pup, s/n 1D9AH3024DY554534, alum box, air lift 1st & 3rd & 4th axles, A/R susp, air scales, elec tarp, alum wheels, Smart Hopper openers w/remote. 1994 Hamms 8000 Gallon T/A Tank, s/n SK401377441, spring susp, 3 comp’t steel tank.

Swathers

2009 Westward M150 30 Ft, s/n 192051, MacDon D50 hdr, s/n 192898, P/U reel, VSR, F&A, hyd knife drive, 600/65R28 F, 16.5Lx16.1 R, 1621 machine hrs showing.

Tyler Doepker

Agricultural Territory Manager South East Saskatchewan

306.630.5171 tdoepker@ritchiebros.com Auction Company License #303043 & 309645

Fertilizer Equipment

12,000± Gallon Fertilizer Tank, on skid. (6) Custombuilt Twin NH3 Tanks.

Grain Carts

1998 Brent 774 S/A, s/n B1713288, 16 in. hyd folding auger, hyd & PTO drive, roll tarp, 2 custombuilt tanks, Briggs & Stratton 2 in. water pump, hose, 30.5Lx32. Minnesota 260 260± Bushel Gravity Grain Wagon.

Grain Handling Equipment

2005 Buhler Farm King 16104 16 In. x 104 Ft Mechanical Swing Grain Auger, s/n 22000016, Big 1000 PTO, reverser, dual flighting in hopper, hyd swing mover, hyd lift. 2005 Buhler Farm King Y1370TM 13 In. x 70 Ft Mechanical Swing Grain Auger, s/n 21901815, 540 PTO, reverser, hyd swing mover, dual flighting in hopper. 1994 Sakundiak 10-2200 10 In. x 72 Ft Mechanical Swing Grain Auger, s/n 49957, 540 PTO, reverser, dual flighting in hopper. 2015 Brandt 1040 10 In. x 40 Ft Grain Auger, s/n 112666, Kohler Command Pro 35 hp, elec start, elec clutch, mover, hyd winch, reverser. 2009 Brandt 845 8 In. x 45 Ft Grain Auger. 6 In. x 35 Ft Grain Auger. Flaman Pro 10 Ft Grain Bagger. Almaz Portable Grain Cleaner. Qwik Clean 572 Grain Cleaner. Labtronics 919 Moisture Tester.

Industrial Equipment

Custombuilt 24 Ft Hydraulic Pull Scraper, 23.1x26. Kirchner 7 Ft 3 Point Hitch Ditcher. Sun Electric 125 KW Containerized Gen Set.

Wellsite

Atco 32 Ft x 10 Ft 1 Man Tri/A, s/n 13279938, A/C, TV, fridge, range, microwave, elec hot water heater, furnace, shower, toilet, sink, bdrm, Buyer Responsible for Loadout. 28 Ft x 10 Ft 1 Man Tri/A, bdrm, kitchen, bathroom, shower, 70 amp service, fridge, microwave, hot water heater, Buyer Responsible for Loadout.

Agricultural Equipment

Sabres Welding 10 Ft Flax Buncher, s/n 0048. Free Form TB2000 8 Ft Poly Swath Roller, s/n FF002SR-95, adjust. Buhler Farm King 7 Ft 6 In. Steel Tapered Swath Roller.

Other Items Include

Ingersoll-Rand 1512 100 Gallon Air Compressor · Custombuilt 400 Amp Portable Welder · Acklands N-250 AC/DC/P Arc Welder · Stinger II AC/DC Stick Welder · 3 In. 5.5 Hp Water Pump · Tanks · 2009 Schulte XH1500-S3 15 Ft Batwing, s/n · Powerstroke Engine · Pinko 350BH Metal Lathe · Ridgid 18-22IC C30600616902, 1000 PTO. Electric Pipe Threader · Heaters · Tool Benches · Shop Tools · Car John Deere 72 In., 540 PTO. Ramps ...AND MUCH MORE!

Mowers

For more information:

Ron Arndt: 306.861.0177, ron.arndt@sasktel.net; Jason Bennett: 306.891.4229 For complete list of details visit:

rbauction.com | 800.491.4494