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The physical distancing rules might have put a pause on many activities, but if anything they only boosted people's creativity. While traditional Christmas pictures with kids sitting on Santa's laps weren't an option this year, it's not the reason to abandon the great tradition. Mark Bailey and his family found a way to deliver the youngster's wishes to Mr. Claus and also save the memories for the future. Photo submitted by Ana Villarreal
Community Hamper Association met record demand thanks to support from the community By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca
At the start of the fall, when the Community Hamper Association started accepting applications for Christmas 2020, they expected it was going to be a record-setting year. It certainly proved to be the case. The association filled nearly 400 hampers this fall for people in the community. People have been dropping by the Estevan Salvation Army from Dec. 21-23 to pick up their hamper, which will help them have the food they need for Christmas. “The Salvation Army was gracious enough to let us use their church area, because we have to do the two-car delivery. And then we don’t have to do the stairs,” said Char Seeman, who cochairs the Community Hamper Asso-
ciation alongside Heather Woodhouse. The number of hampers that they filled was similar to what they expected. And it’s thanks to the support of people in Estevan and area that they were able to meet the needs of the community. “It was outstanding, especially with the downturn,” said Seeman. “It was so appreciated, because we might have done the legwork, but without their monetary donations, there is no way we could have done what we did this year. “And we’ve had so many families say to us ‘We never thought you guys were going to be able to get us the toys or the hampers this year, with the way the economy is, so it’s been amazing.” A $16,000 donation from a consortium of oil and gas companies in southeast Saskatchewan was a
big help. Businesses, individuals and organizations in Estevan and surrounding communities came through in a big way. “There have been a lot of days in which we’ve been in tears at the support we’ve gotten from people,” said Seeman. All of the donations this year had to be cash, because they could not accept food. Any food donations had to go to the Salvation Army. Seeman didn’t have an estimate on how much they received from donors, but they received enough to fill nearly 400 hampers, at an average of $100-$125 in food per hamper. “We try to start out the year with $1,000 or so in our bank account for a cushion, and there certainly won’t be any cushion this year, there’s no doubt about it.”
The hampers will include everything that people would need for Christmas meals that day. Not only will recipients find the essentials for supper – turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, buns and milk – but there will be canned meats for lunch, and cereals for breakfast, so that everyone has a full stomach on Christmas Day. The hampers range in size from small, which would feed one or two people, to double extra-large, which would be enough to feed a family of 10, since some large families are among their recipients. Seeman noted there was a lot more work for the hamper association this year than in the past. They had to worry about things that weren’t issues in the past, including a deadline to request hampers, the inability to deliver them and having the hamper pickup
at a different time than the pickup for the toys collected through their Angel Tree program. “It’s been three times the work this year, but it’s been worth it,” said Seeman. “Where usually we start in October, we started in September this year. And then in those first few months, we meet maybe once a week or every two weeks. Probably for the last two months, including the weekends, me, Shelley (Dayman) and Jolie (Bayda) have been together just about every single day, working on these hampers.” People phoned to volunteer with the hamper association, and while they needed more than ever, Seeman said they had to maintain their bubble. For more information on the hamper association’s Angel Tree program, please see page A2.
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Angel Tree was able to get enough gifts for a record 560 kids, thanks to the community By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
The Estevan Hamper Association's Angel Tree program was a huge success this year despite all possible challenges. The organization was able to get enough gifts for about 560 kids ages zero through 16, thus making sure that all younger members of the Estevan community have something to unwrap on Christmas morning. Just like everything else this year, the Angel Tree program went somewhat differently. Char Seeman, who is the co-chair of the association with Heather Woodhouse, said that there were a lot of monetary donations. "The monetary donations were awesome, the actual toy donations were down. We did buy between 70 and 80 per cent of the toys with the monetary donations we got," Seeman said. Volunteers said that shopping for toys was fun and a bit tricky, as getting gifts for
about 400 children required a lot of imagination. When volunteers started running out of ideas they ended up asking friends about what their kids get or want for Christmas. But after all, they were very grateful for the support and donations of all types. "Without monetary donations, we would be in huge trouble," said Seeman. "It's a different year, so it's different for everything," added Shelley Dayman, who helps run the Angel Tree program every year. The toy collection season opened up as early as November this year, and went all the way up to Dec. 12, thus allowing for the organizers to quarantine all the donations and set up the Toy Store at the basement of St. Giles Anglican Church. Angel Trees were up at Walmart, Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual, and Your Toy Store and More. Seeman noted that this year unlike normal, the last two locations saw more donations than the first one.
"Mr. Mikes got an amazing amount of toys, so did Your Toy Store and More," Seeman said. She added that the decrease in toy donations in Walmart was probably due to people, in general, trying to limit their shopping trips because of the pandemic. Angel Tree volunteers shopped locally for everything they needed to fill the shelves at the association’s Toy Store. "We really wanted to support the community that supports us," Seeman said. This year was very different in a sense of demand as well. It marked a record for the Community Hamper Association. The highest they've ever been before was 312 hampers, and this year they had about 390 applications. And for kids, before they only needed to allocate about 400 gifts, and the number of applications this year was also well above what they've ever received before. But the one thing that remained the same was the strong and confident commu-
From left, Char Seeman, Jolie Bayda and Shelley Dayman organized the Angel Tree's Toy Store and were waiting for patrons to come pick gifts for their kids. nity support. Be it businesses or private people, Estevan came together again and made sure that Angels Tree can fulfill the obligations they took upon themselves. "Huge thank you to the community and everything that they have done. The oilfield companies especially, because they are all struggling, and they have come and
supported us unbelievably. (We are also grateful to) all the businesses because everybody is struggling, but they all came together and helped us. And I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone for donating, because if they wouldn't have given us the money this year, there is no way we could have even been close to doing what we did,"
Seeman said. All parents that applied to receive gifts for their children through Angels Tree were scheduled to come to St. Giles Church over the period of Dec. 15-17. Everybody had an appointed time, so parents could safely browse the options available, and then volunteers helped them with packing the gifts.
PJ Project and their supporters cleared all pyjamas in the area to make kids smile at Christmas By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
The support for the Estevan Kinette Club’s PJ Project this year was so enormous that they even had to ask some people and companies willing to donate to direct their money to other charities. Chelsey Istace, who spearheads the project, said that it's the first time they ever had to do something like that. The spirit of giving in the Estevan area was overwhelming, but the demand for support also significantly rose. The Kinettes had to
secure enough pyjamas for about 560 kids ages zero to 16 years old. So to meet their goals, they pretty much cleared all pyjamas they could find in all of the Estevan stores. "PJ Project was amazing this year. We had more support than we've ever had before. We had people reaching out to us non-stop wanting to do some kind of fundraiser to support us. It was really, really good," said Istace. "I think people are so grateful for what they have this year, that they wanted to do so much more … All of a sudden we got an avalanche
My mom is so thankful to all of you that trusted her to help you buy or sell your house this year. She is excited to help turn more houses into homes!
of people that were like 'We have, we want to give.' So it was amazing to see the community come together." With the support being there this year, the Kinettes didn't even need to ask for help. "Normally, about a week before the project ends, we are asking people, 'We need everything, come on help us, please do what you can.' And this year we got to the point when we actually started recommending people make donations to the local food bank instead, because we didn't want to take more than we needed," Istace said. Many individuals and organizations came up with donations or ideas, and just either handed the Kinettes the cheques or provided bags and bags of pyjamas for Estevan kids. For example, the local members with the Registered Nurses Association challenged the other staff at St. Joseph's Hospital, and they were able to get over 60
Estevan Kinettes Chelsey Istace and Susan Colbow collected over 560 pyjamas for Estevan kids. Photo submitted pyjamas. OM Yoga Studio held Yoga for a Cause and Nicole McKague Photography hosted Photos with Santa, both directing all proceeds towards the PJ Project. "We had a lot of differ-
Filled With Our Gratitude
ent support this year," Istace said. "It was really, really good. It probably was my favourite year." The pyjama donations were being dropped at Istace's house all the way since the beginning of this year's project, and that also felt "really good." There were also a lot of monetary donations coming in, which allowed the Kinettes to fulfill the size
gaps they had. The support was strong from both private people and businesses. "Thank you to Estevan and the surrounding areas for your continued support with our project. We hope you have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year," Istace said. The pyjamas were distributed through the Community Hamper Association's Angel Tree Toy Store last week.
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St. Mary’s School students spread Christmas cheer By David Willberg dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca
Students at St. Mary’s School found a number of ways to celebrate Christmas this year and spread some cheer with the community. As part of the season of Advent, Grade 8 teacher Agnes Garrioch said the school reaches out to the community every year, and this year they were able to stay connected with those outside of the school in a safe way. “I asked our students what initiatives they wanted to do each week to connect with our community, and our students came up with great ideas,” said Garrioch, who is also a technology integration coach. With the Grade 8 class as leaders, each week was dedicated to a different project. “We have a team, so it’s made up of different classes, and then Lent, it’s the other grade classes,” said Garrioch. She wants people to feel important and get a good feeling. Week 1 from Nov. 30Dec. 4, with the theme of hope, saw cards sent to the community. The cards were delivered to Estevan Area Home Care patients, doctors and nurses at St. Joseph’s Hospital, dentists throughout the city, and residents of Hill View Manor, Creighton Lodge, the Estevan Regional Nursing Home, St. Joseph’s Hospital long-term care and Trinity Tower. Garrioch believes the cards turned out great. “I took a picture of all the cards under our tree. On Dec. 8, our secretary brought them to the post office, and so we had quite a few envelopes to send away,” said Garrioch. “But the kids were so happy to do it, and it was so neat to see the creativity that was put into it, and also the heart that went into it.” Since it was the students’ idea to do the cards, they were that much more connected and passionate about it. Garrioch noted that the students sent letters to Creighton Lodge the week that schools shut down in March, and the enriched
living facility had asked for personal letters. “Creighton Lodge actually sent us the names of the residents, and so some classes wrote directly to individuals, whereas the others cards that were made, for example, for the dentist, it was to the dentists, so there was a bunch of artwork and cards to each location,” said Garrioch. Students decided on the artwork. Week 2, from Dec. 7-11, had the theme of love and saw the students participate in Virtual Video Pals with seniors. On Dec. 9, school students connected with the residents of Creighton Lodge. In 15-minute time slots, one to three students visited with each resident via FaceTime. The stories and conversation flowed from both sides. “I think it was so great for the students and the school jumping at the chance to get to actually do this, so it’s been great, because … all the different classes have been preparing and thinking of their questions they want to ask their virtual video pal, and so they were all ready and everyone was so excited to chat with their pals,” said Garrioch. They did the same with the residents of St. Joseph’s Hospital’s long-term care on Dec. 10. “We’ve been asking questions and telling stories,” said Alex Jumbe, a Grade 8 student at St. Mary’s. The staff at Creighton Lodge and long-term care were so helpful with the students as well. Some students asked lots of questions, some prepared poems, and read stories. There was laughter, wonder, and excitement in these calls, Garrioch said. “O ur virtual pals at Creighton Lodge and St. Joseph's long-term care were so great at answering all the questions from their new pals from St. Mary's School. All the students were so excited that they made a new friend,” she said. Many of the students asked their new friends if they can do this again, virtually, and hopefully in person next year. “The wonderful program directors at Creighton Lodge
and St. Joseph's long-term care also want to continue this connection,” Garrioch said. Over the course of the two days, St. Mary’s students met with 16 residents from St. Joseph's long-term care and 11 residents from Creighton Lodge. In the third week, from Dec. 14-18, students have been sending Christmas artwork to grocery store employees at the Southern Plains Co-op, Sobeys, Clifton’s No Frills and Walmart. The theme was joy. “Axel’s group came with the idea for the Christmas artwork for the grocery store employees, and so it’s so nice to see students recognize, at that age, who they want to connect with and appreciate in the community, instead of it coming from an adult,” said Garrioch. The final week, which is happening during Christmas vacation, saw the students share a nativity video with the church and the community they connected with over the Advent season. The theme is peace. Each class contributed to the video and shared an important part of their faith. Axel said this was a great way to continue to have Advent activities, especially during a pandemic. “Already, it’s tough for some people, so the whole point of this is to spread hope, love, joy and peace,” said Axel. The initiative has allowed the students to think more about everybody, and it’s always good to think about others. He believes they have accomplished their goal. Garrioch noted this was a lot of work, but it has been an excellent learning experience for the students, as it allows them to take ownership and decide what they want to do. “At St. Mary's, we always try to support deeper learning experiences for our students,” said Garrioch. “This was such a special experience for everyone involved. I hope this encourages others to connect, bring joy and lift up all our members in our wonderful community of Estevan.”
From left, Becca Hanson, Sophie Mantei and Grace Trepanie enjoyed talking with care home residents. Photo submitted
From left, Parker Moffat, Brae Wolensky, Meredith Knoll were among the St. Mary’s School students involved with Virtual Video Pals. Photo submitted
From left, Hana Son, Jade Andrei Albofera and Payton Phillips enjoyed participating in Virtual Video Pals. Photo submitted
Cards were waiting beneath a Christmas tree to be sent to the community. Photo submitted
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EDITORIAL
Volume 115 Issue 36 Contact us: (306) 634-2654 68 Souris Avenue N. Estevan, SK S4A 2M3 www.estevanmercury.ca @Estevan_Mercury facebook.com/EstevanMercury
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Estevan area comes through yet again Entering the Christmas season, we knew the organizations that assist others in the community were going to face a greater need than ever before. We just didn’t know how great the need would be. It turned out the Community Hamper Association had a record number of people looking for hampers this year. And, as such, they needed a record number of toys for its Angel Tree. And the Estevan Kinette Club would need to find a record number of pyjamas for kids through its PJ project, since each kid who gets a toy through the Angel Tree also gets pyjamas. When the association started seeking requests in September and the applications came in quickly (thankfully, people didn’t wait for the last minute) they knew this year was going to be busy. The community was there for them. The Mercury was proud to support the Angel Tree and the PJ Project with its Christmas Wish List campaign. And there were many businesses that stepped forward as well, with donations of cash, toys and pyjamas to help people have a better Christmas. The support from Estevan and area matched the record-breaking demand. It just goes to show how incredible we are. As for the Estevan Salvation Army, their annual campaigns don`t wrap up until Christmas
Eve, so we won`t know just how generous the community was for that valuable ministry, but the community has never drifted away in its support for that organization and its highly valuable food bank. The Salvation Army had a more moderate goal for this Christmas season to fund its efforts locally for 2021, but we still expect the community will be there for them. We still saw volunteers ringing bells near the kettles, and there was a decent amount of cash inside, even if the Salvation Army came up with ways to support its campaign without depositing pocket changes or a $10 bill or a cheque into the familiar clear bulbs. And while we didn’t have the events that asked for a donation to the Salvation Army’s food bank for admission, people found other ways to contribute to the food bank. A few weeks ago, you could be forgiven for wondering if there would be Christmas hampers, the Angel Tree, the PJ Project or the kettle campaign, or any one of a number of other community initiatives that we see at this time of year. The hamper association certainly had to change the way it operates. They won`t be able to deliver the hampers like they normally would. They had to be firm with deadlines and appointments. In a year in which there is so much need, in which so many people have suffered an economic
hit due to the pandemic, Christmas would have been that much tougher on them if they didn`t have access to something like the hamper association or the Salvation Army. And in a year in which so many people won`t be able to get together for Christmas, the hampers will help those who will be on their own, and wouldn’t be able to afford a Christmas supper. The community’s generosity has extended to other organizations. We saw the community come through with support for the St. Joseph`s Hospital Foundation`s Festival of Trees. We smiled when he heard that the new Estevan Regional Nursing Home committee received a couple of large estate donations from those they labelled as their “Christmas angels.” And while it wasn`t a fundraiser or a donation, we`ve never had more cheers submitted for our Cheers and Jeers than the 100 Kids who Care`s Joyful Pathway Project. A lot of people saw value in the efforts of those kids. And we`ve seen people rethink their events so that something can happen, such as Christmas assemblies and talent shows. There`s nothing like a little ingenuity. We all know how great the people of this region are, how generous they are and how they will get behind many causes. This Christmas only reinforced that knowledge.
I bet there are a lot of things to be grateful for, even this different year 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.
Many business owners I talked to this year said they were thinking about closing offices for the holidays, so many of us are going to get real holiday time off. While the time off will be real, it definitely won’t be traditional. But when God closes the door He opens a window, and even though this break will be different, it will create some new opportunities. So while we can’t travel and hardly can visit anybody, I decided that it’s an awesome time to reflect and find things to be grateful for. Since I was a kid, every New Year’s Eve about 20 minutes before midnight, the time when the big old chime clock on the Kremlin tower in Moscow would start counting down what always feels like the great new beginning, mom had us reflect on the year that we were saying good-bye to. It was almost like a game, and there was no way to skip it. She always asked us to think well and share everything we were grateful for. I warned my Canadian husband about it last year when we got to celebrate this holiday with my Russian family. He didn’t believe me until mom made him think about it at the table and wouldn’t let it go until he came up with something good. At some point, I didn’t like this little tradition, because sometimes it was difficult to come up with something as, first, the recent events usually outshine other things that could have been much better, but happened earlier in the year. Besides, we tend to focus on problems and challenges, and happiness is often just a moment, which is more difficult to remember. But anyway, the little Christmas break allowed me to reflect on what I was grateful for this absurd year. First of all, the year started off just the
Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About… way I wanted it, with my family around, with a real Christmas tree filling the room with that most genuine smell of Christmas holidays, with champagne popping and with dancing with grandma. We spent a beautiful vacation in St. Petersburg, and I truly think that if not for those few weeks, I probably wouldn’t make it through this crazy year. So I guess the first thing I’m grateful for is the family. They are my base. They are my safe place. Even if it only can be done virtually, reaching out to them recharges me, fills me with energy and reminds me about all the great things I have in life, distracting from the immediate and in most cases insignificant problems. The first few weeks of the pandemic were definitely overwhelming. Not that the rest of this year wasn’t, but I think I later grew an extra stress-resistant layer, which is also a thing to be grateful for (even dirty dishes left on the table can’t get me out of balance anymore). I sure missed seeing a lot of people this year, but on the other hand, especially during the spring, I got to see many other people who I haven’t seen in years. We would “gather” for wine and cheese with girlfriends, who are living all across the world – a thing that was always available, but we never thought of it until the circumstances made us. Besides, grandma, who is almost 83, also got more tech-smart this year, and now we
finally figured a way to see each other regularly. The international shutdowns kept my spirit of adventurer within the Canadian borders, but it also pushed me, like thousands of others, to explore the glorious and unbelievably beautiful country I live in. I made it to Montreal this summer and set the first steps in the Rockies – an experience that only made me hungrier for adventures in the area. I also learned how great the area I live in is. I always liked it, but it wasn’t until this year when I had more me-time that I started noticing details and appreciating them even more. There are also two great qualities I discovered and started understanding better in people, in general, and also people around me. First, is the creativity we were witnessing throughout the year. Not only did people find ways to achieve things despite anything, but the smartest minds on the planet were also able to pull out the vaccine in a record time, trying to get us back to our lives as we know and love them. And while there still might be some hiccups ahead, there is no reason to doubt that we’ll get through them. And the other thing was people’s kindness/ generosity that despite all challenges just kept growing this year. Be it paying it forward at Timmies (which is one of the most Canadian ways of showing love I’ve ever seen by the way) or supporting local charities as never before, or caring about others in all possible ways, it was so distinct that I couldn’t be more grateful for people I’m surrounded by. And finally (at least for now), I was grateful for this little break that allowed me to slow down, think about the world around me and reset myself for the next year. So the game is on and I pass it onto you: what were you grateful for this year?
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David Willberg Willberg’s World
Reasons for hope for Estevan I feel more confident about the future of Estevan than I did at the start of the year. That might seem like an odd thing to say, considering what a difficult year it’s been at times, thanks to the ongoing pandemic, an announcement earlier this year about job losses at our local mine site and the federal government’s ongoing infatuation with carbon taxes. But there are a lot of reasons for hope for our community. In case you haven’t noticed (which means you’ve likely been living under a rock), there’s a lot of new businesses that have opened in Estevan this year, especially in the last six months. It’s been a while since we’ve had so many brick and mortar businesses open within a short span like we’ve had in her in the past few months. These businesses aren’t going to offset the job losses associated with losing one unit at the Boundary Dam Power Station, let alone two. And they won’t offset the larger job losses we’re going to experience should the Shand Power Station and Unit 6 at Boundary Dam eventually have to retire by the end of this decade. And these new businesses aren’t going to generate the wages associated with a mining job or a SaskPower job. But these new businesses, with their jobs, add up. And they show tremendous confidence in the community. We’ve seen other positive developments. The potential for polygeneration is tremendous, as far as jobs and investment capital and opportunity, but it’s not a slam-dunk. The indoor agriculture facility, guided by top southeast Saskatchewan entrepreneur Derrick Big Eagle, is an exciting proposition that looks to be on the horizon in the more immediate future. It will create jobs during construction, and it will make a big difference once it opens. Skepticism about the project from the Citizens Against Virtually Everything crowd should be eased once you remember who’s involved with the project. The opening of the addictions treatment and recovery centre at St. Joseph’s Hospital was a big plus for our community. It has brought skilled, knowledgeable people to work in our city. The news earlier this year that the owners of the Estevan Market Mall are investing big money into that site is certainly a step forward for our city. They wouldn’t be spending big money on a renovation if they weren’t confident in Estevan. While it’s outside of our city limits, the geothermal project for Deep Earth Energy Production is a fascinating concept that will generate clean, baseload power once it’s finished. It won’t offset the job losses at Boundary Dam and the mine, but again, it will help. When he was in Estevan last month, economic development guru Doug Griffiths came away impressed with our community. The fact that we have Griffiths consulting with the city is a positive development; it doesn’t take long to realize that this guy knows his stuff, and he has a lot of great ideas. He makes a great point that it’s unlikely we’re going to find that one magic answer that will offset the jobs lost with the eventual demise of conventional coal power. (Although the polygeneration facility would go a long ways in helping). It’s going to take a lot of smaller things, which would gradually offset those losses. He also speaks of the value of downtown, and it’s great to see some new businesses on Fourth Street. I wish we could live in a world in which Units 4 and 5 at Boundary Dam would be retrofitted, in which the provincial and federal governments would commit to continued rollout of carbon capture and storage technology, and people would realize there is a happy balance that can exist between economic and environmental needs. I wish people would realize how proud people at the mines and SaskPower are about their jobs. It would cause government types to alter their thinking and approach when it comes to coal transition efforts. Reality, though, is we’re facing big changes, and we have to deal with them and adapt and be ready for them, or risk losing our community. We have to be willing to think outside the box and embrace the new investment that comes in, rather than cling to the hope that we can return to the excitement and the boom times of 10 years ago. We have an economic development committee in place that is doing great work and looking to the future, making Estevan a place for investment. And we’re starting to see results. That’s why my excitement for the future of our city is growing.
Registered massage therapist concerned with possible restrictions The editor: I am writing to Premier Scott Moe as a registered massage therapist (RMT) in Saskatchewan with concerns about my profession due to COVID-19. I am unnerved for my fellow RMTs that if Saskatchewan takes a turn for the worst and an impending lockdown is near, I and all other RMTs will be sent home. Yet our other health professionals will be able to continue working, but not massage therapists. All because of the wrong wording. On the Saskatchewan Government website page, registered massage therapists are considered to be a “personal
care Sservice” not a “health service” and we should not be out of work due to the wording of that. We are most definitely a health service and should not be under the umbrella of personal care when RMTs have governing bodies of associations. We pay our fees, we have register numbers and we have insurance reimbursement. If we were in fact in the personal care category, why are we considered a health service for insurance companies, but not our provincial government? Why do RMTs work alongside chiropractors, physiotherapists other health professionals and be recognized as a health service by them,
but not our provincial government? I understand that Saskatchewan does not have a unified college for massage therapy, but there are several strong associations that have mandated and upheld the same precautions that the other regulated health professional colleges have in place. I hope this is taken into deep consideration to not include massage with personal care. If there is a lockdown in the future, I hope to see massage therapy on the list as a health service and will be able to continue to work. Elisha Daneluk Estevan
Council finalizes its committees for 2021 Estevan city council has finalized the committees that members will be part of in 2021. Each of the six councillors and Mayor Roy Ludwig sit on a number of different committees throughout the year. For the four new members of council, it will give them a look at operations of different departments with the city and the community. For incumbent Councillors Travis Frank and Shelly Veroba, they’ll have some new committee experiences. Mayor Roy Ludwig is on the economic development board, the emergency measures organization, the Estevan board of police commissioners, the Estevan CP Rail community advisory panel, the Estevan Housing Authority board, the RM of Estevan No 5-City of Estevan liaison committee and the southern coal transition committee. Veroba’s committee list includes the Estevan board of police commissioners, the Estevan Curling Club board and the Woodlawn Regional Park Authority. Frank will join Ludwig on the economic development board and the RMCity liaison committee, and he will be on the airport liason committee. As for the new members, Councillor Rebecca Foord will be on the Estevan Arts Council board, the Estevan Bruins board, the Regional Water Association board, the St. Joseph’s Hospital board and the South East Air Shed Association committee. Lindsay Clark will be on the business improvement district, the Estevan
Members of Estevan city council now know which committees they will be part of in 2021. File photo Art Gallery and Museum board and the Southeast Transportation Planning committee, and he will join Ludwig and Veroba on the police board. The committees for Councillor Kirsten Walliser include the Creighton Lodge Trust Committee, the Estevan Public Library board, the Southeast Regional Library board, the Souris Valley Museum board and the SMILE Services board. Councillor Tony Sernick is on the Estevan Exhibition Association board, the Estevan Humane Society board and the Souris Valley Theatre board. He will join Ludwig and Frank on the City-RM liaison committee. Council also elected the members at large for the Estevan board of police commissioners for 2021 on Monday
night. Bernadette Wright is back on the board for a third straight year, and she will be joined by newcomer Geoff Thiessen. Michelle Graff, who was on the police board in 2019 and 2020 as a member at large, sought another one-year term, but she was defeated. Both Wright and Thiessen ran unsuccessfully for council in November’s civic election. Thiessen is currently a chaplain for the EPS, and Veroba wanted to know if that would be a conflict of interest. Also established Monday is the deputy mayor schedule for 2021. Veroba will have the role from Jan. 1-Feb. 22, followed by Frank (Feb. 23-May 3), Foord (May 4-June 28), Sernick ( June 29-Aug. 23), Clark (Aug. 24-Nov. 15) and Walliser (Nov. 16-Dec. 31).
Two arrested for drug trafficking Two people were arrested west of Estevan earlier this month for alleged drug trafficking and other infractions. According to a press release from the Estevan Police Service (EPS), the EPS Drug Intelligence Unit conducted an investigation on a man from Estevan involved in trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine. On Dec. 12, at approximately 12:40 a.m., members from the Estevan RCMP and the Weyburn Police Service Drug Unit assisted with conducting a traffic stop on a vehicle on Highway 39 approximately 25 kilometers west of Estevan. One man and one woman were taken into custody without incident. A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of an amount of methamphetamine and cocaine, a large knife
and other items used for the sale of those drugs. Following the traffic stop, a search warrant was executed at a residence located in southwest Estevan. Further evidence to support the sale and distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine were seized. No arrests were made at the residence. As a result of the investigation, Daniel James Lowenberg, 29, and Lindsay Mueller, 39, both of Estevan, are charged with possession of cocaine and methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public under the Criminal Code.
Additional charges for Lowenberg include possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, contrary to the Criminal Code, and failing to comply with a weapons prohibition. Mueller was released by a justice of the peace on Dec. 12. She will appear in court in February 2021. Lowenberg was remanded into custody and made a first court appearance on Dec. 14. They are presumed innocent. “We say it time and time again,” said Estevan Police Chief Paul Ladouceur. “If you choose to deal drugs in this community you will get caught. This is an excellent example of teamwork between the Estevan police, Weyburn police, and RCMP.”
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May 2021 bring you love, happiness and health. Happy Holidays!
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A6 December 23, 2020
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Auxiliary presents $30,000 to the hospital Even though the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of their annual events and kept them from operating their hospital gift shop, the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary continues to make significant donations to St. Joseph’s Hospital. The auxiliary presented a cheque for $30,000 to hospital CEO Greg Hoffort on Dec. 9. The money represents the latest payment on the new beds for the long-term care ward that the auxiliary agreed to fundraise for. The total cost of the beds is $255,057; the auxiliary has paid down about $170,000 on the project. Auxiliary treasurer Darla Wilhelm said they have received some estate donations, along with allocations as a member agency for the United Way Estevan. “With us not being able to do any fundraising, it’s been difficult, but we’re hanging in there,” said Wilhelm. In previous years, the auxiliary has held a spring tea and bake sale and silent auction, and a similar event before Christmas, but those were cancelled this year due to COVID-19. They would often make a cheque presentation to the hospital at those events.
Wilhelm said it was tough not to have the activities, because those are their top fundraisers of the year, so they hope to have a fundraiser of some type next year. She’s impressed at how much they’ve been able to raise for the long-term care beds, since they only started working on the project last year. “I am surprised that we are doing as well as we are, considering what’s happening right now. It’s always nice to see when people have memorials made to the auxiliary.” St. Joseph’s Hospital CEO Greg Hoffort praised the efforts of the auxiliary, saying the one at St. Joe’s might be the most active and generous in the country with the way in which they raise funds for the hospital. “I’m not aware of another one that does more for the hospital than ours. They’ve touched critical areas of the hospital in their last many projects, and we think of what they’ve done to retool our laboratory or our operating room or the long-term care facility,” said Hoffort. “It’s just never-ending, and the pace at which they’re paying off on this project, it will be soon they’ll be reaching out to me to say ‘Better get
From left, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary treasurer Darla Wilhelm and president Marlene Shurygalo present a cheque for $30,000 to St. Joseph’s Hospital executive director Greg Hoffort. another one in mind, because we’re wondering what to do next,’” said Hoffort. When the hospital came to the auxiliary last time, it was suggested
that the auxiliary replace half of the long-term care beds, but the auxiliary offered to take care of all of them. These new beds bring comfort and safety for residents. They have
bed alarms and even offer the ability to weigh the patients in the beds. And they replace old beds that had been there since the hospital opened nearly 30 years ago.
Spruce Ridge takes Christmas show virtual Principal Cheri Haberstock said it was more important than ever to do something to lift the students’
spirits during what is a different kind of Christmas. “Instead of doing a Christmas concert, which
obviously we can’t do, we thought we’d have our students do a little performance that we would record and post for our parents on our Facebook page,” said Haberstock. “Some of the classes are doing Christmas poems. Some of them are playing percussion instruments. Some of the classes are dancing. Some of them are doing other creative things. The door is wide open. The only thing we’re not allowed to do is sing or use wind instruments.” Each teacher sends in a video to Haberstock, and
then she posts them individually. The goal was to have all of the videos uploaded by Dec. 18, which was the last day of classes before the Christmas holidays. Since videos were uploaded individually, it means the parents and other family members don’t have to sit through a lengthy digital Christmas concert. The students have used creativity to share a Christmas greeting, message or performance with parents. “We’re doing a lot of things for Christmas, and it’s a year where we’re really focused on bringing the joy,”
said Haberstock. Dress-up days have included crazy hats, merr y masks and, of course, ugly Christmas sweaters. Haberstock believes it’s been a real success. Many of the classes have been making cards for home care patients in the community. The Southern Plains Co-op asked Spruce Ridge to write letters to seniors in the care homes as part of packages the co-op is delivering. These might not have been traditional ways to spread cheer, but they were new, and Haberstock believes they worked.
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The students at Spruce Ridge School in Estevan had a virtual Christmas pageant this year.
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Mercury’s Christmas promotions received much support The Estevan Mercury has enjoyed outstanding support for its annual Christmas promotions. The first effort was the Win your Christmas Wish List promotion, in conjunction with the Mercury’s Christmas Catalogue. People found items they wanted in the catalogue and submitted a form that could be found on the Mercury’s website or in the paper. There was a $1,000 limit for the items on a wish list. The winner of the wish list promotion, Elaine Bachorcik, received gift cards to six participating businesses found on her list. “The whole point of these promotions is to showcase shopping locally, getting what you need in Estevan,” said
Tarnes. The Mercury received hundreds of submissions between the paper and the website, and for each wish list received, it made a donation to the Community Hamper Association’s Angel Tree and the Estevan Kinettes Club’s PJ Project. Each organization received $500. One change that occurred this year is the Mercury didn’t have drop boxes at the participating businesses. “We didn’t want to have any extra work for the retailers, but we wanted to still encourage people to shop locally, and we like to give away prizes,” said Tarnes. Bachorcik was thrilled when she found out she was
the winner. “It’s my favourite part of the job is getting to tell people they won. It’s nice to be able to do that for people. She was over the moon,” said Tarnes. Tarnes is thankful for everyone who took the time to reflect on what they want to buy locally, for submitting a ballot, and for reading the Mercury, either in print or online. The Mercur y also launched its inaugural Twinkle Tour Scavenger Hunt in partnership with Tourism Estevan that encourages people to drive around town and look at all of the great Christmas light displays. Residents are asked to find the decorations, fill out a form that has appeared in the
Elaine Bachorcik, left, the winner of the Estevan Mercury’s Win Your Christmas Wish List promotion, accepts her prize from Mercury publisher-sales manager Deanna Tarnes. A few entry forms have already been submitted. Tarnes believes it’s a great way to create new memories while finding something safe to do.
paper each week since Dec. 9 and submit it. Tarnes will randomly select one person in the new year to win $100.
“The response has been great. I think people are welcoming new ideas, and people have time to do things like this.”
Additional funding for oil and gas workers The Government of Saskatchewan has announced the allocation of $200 million for Phase Two of the province’s Accelerated Site Closure Program (ASCP). The ASCP prioritizes Saskatchewan-based oil and gas service companies. It will support more than 2,000 full-time equivalent jobs and reclaim up to 8,000 inactive wells and facilities over two years. With Phase 1 scheduled to conclude this month, Phase 2 will run from January 2021 to March 2022. The latest allocation will enable Saskatchewan oil and gas companies to access
additional program funds to accelerate the retirement of inactive wells that have reached the end of their life cycle. “Our top priority continues to be getting Saskatchewan oil and gas service workers back to work,” Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre said. “The ASCP prioritizes Saskatchewan companies and is widely regarded as pragmatic, efficient and fair.” The Phase 1 allocation was $100 million in program funding ($400 million total), which was announced in May 2020 as part of the federal COVID-19 Economic Response Plan. In Saskatchewan, more than $94
million in work packages are currently on track for allocation by the end of 2020, in every oil and gas region of the province — including $33 million in the Estevan area, $17 million in Swift Current, $16 million in Kindersley and $28 million in Lloydminster. “The federal government’s funding to clean up inactive and orphan wells means Saskatchewan oil and gas workers are getting back on the job at a time when the industry that has been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and low global commodity prices,” said Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources Seamus O’Regan.
The ASCP has engaged 52 licensees and 253 Saskatchewan-based service companies, including Indigenous-owned service companies. As of Oct. 31, the program has completed 428 well abandonments, 107 flowline abandonments, six facility reclamations and 552 site
remediation and reclamation activities in Saskatchewan, with more than 4,400 other projects underway. “We are humbled to be part of the Accelerated Site Closure Program,” Buffalo Head Environmental Ltd. president Scott Paton said. “We are
a Saskatchewan company, with a local team of professionals, and we are fortunate to remain employed during these turbulent times. The directive of the program to dedicate Saskatchewan resources to Saskatchewan sites resonates with our mantra: ‘We care because we live here.’”
The Estevan Economic Development Board would like to wish everyone a safe and
Merry Christmas We are very excited for 2021 and the possibility it will bring. Daniel Betnar Investors Group
Roy Ludwig Mayor of Estevan
Jeff Pierson Josh Biggs Top Torque Services
Days Inn Estevan, Blackbeards Restaurant & Catering Company, The Ice Factory, The Beef Bar
Richard Sadick Joe Billesberger
Estevan Economic Development
Michelle Dickie
Kurt Schmidt
B&S Construction
RM of Estevan
F&L Concrete Services
Brian Enns
Chris Tarnes
Ashley Gallaway
Jackie Wall
Southern Plains Co-op
The Floor Store
Wil-Tech Industries
Estevan Chamber of Commerce
Josh LeBlanc
Jeff Ward
Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate
DOING BUSINESS IN ESTEVAN
City of Estevan
CLUES ACROSS 1. Babies’ eating accessories 5. Charge on a coat of arms 9. Set of five 11. California town 13. One who cites 15. Elected official 16. Japanese delicacy 17. Couldn’t be happier 19. Enormous 21. Hunter’s tool 22. Georgia rockers 23. Cold wind 25. Beginner 26. Where you sleep 27. Without 29. We all have them 31. Spoiled 33. Platform 34. Drama and horror are two 36. In abundance 38. Turf 39. Inventor Musk 41. Negative answers 43. French river 44. Saps of energy 46. Type of sandwich 48. Sets apart again 52. Engage in a contest 53. Sufferings 54. Freestanding sculpture 56. Digs into 57. Fish have them 58. Speaks 59. Storage unit
CLUES DOWN 1. Spread over 2. Dyes 3. British thermal unit 4. Small city in Maine 5. Having an affection for 6. Welsh for John 7. Plays that ridicule 8. Not of your right mind 9. A way to get there 10. Hideaways 11. Relating to neurons 12. “Family City USA” 14. Proof of payment (abbr.) 15. Flew high 18. Wreaths 20. Got rid of 24. Shortly 26. Confer 28. Monies given as support 30. German electric car 32. Objects of an earlier time 34. Flat-bottomed boats 35. Small waterbird 37. Willingness to please others 38. Military actions 40. Brooklyn hoopsters 42. Took to the seas 43. Romanian city 45. What the sun eventually does 47. Titans’ DC Dean 49. Resentful longing 50. Ceases to live 51. Pouches 55. Humbug
A8 December 23, 2020
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Estevan man creates fantastic outdoor rink A lot of people are building backyard rinks this winter so their families can get some exercise and keep their skating and other skills sharp, but one Estevan man has taken it to a new level. Nathan Hunt, who lives in northeast Estevan, constructed a rink on his property that is 45 by 23 feet, taking up a pretty good chunk of his backyard that sits on a large corner lot. But he took it one step further, with lighting and boards to add to the experience. “With COVID-19 restrictions, there’s not a lot to do,” said Hunt, the father of three boys. “They can’t play with the friends, and they can’t get much activity. We were thinking of Christmas gifts for the kids, and started looking at rinks online.” When he saw the prices for outdoor rinks, he decided he could build something bigger and better, but for a lower cost. One that he saw online, with one-foot boards all around the ice surface, was $3,800 to be delivered. Hunt’s rink was about half the price of anything he found online, and it’s better than anything he found on the Internet. “I went all out. I got big boards and stadium lights and I’m going to have sponsor decals put on,” he said. “It’s a full meal deal.” Hunt isn’t trying to take
Nathan Hunt has created this magnificent outdoor rink at his backyard in northeast Estevan. Photo submitted money from businesses to get their decals on the four-foot boards, but some companies that supplied the materials or businesses that he worked for paid to have decals applied. They are getting made by Dynamic Signs. “There was lots of support once people saw it,” said Hunt.
Wishing you a joyous holiday season with peace and cheer in the new year!
Even more impressive is that this is the first time he has tried building an outdoor rink, so he’s pretty proud of his efforts. Hunt started working on the outdoor rink in early December. Warm temperatures slowed the progress of making the ice, and it took a
couple of weeks to get the rink ready for us. On Dec. 14, Hunt and his boys spent 2 1/2 hours out on the rink, even though it was a chilly evening in the Energy City. It’s not the only time in which they’ve been out on the ice for extended periods of time.
Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season. 128 Souris Avenue N. Estevan, SK 306-634-8255
The timing of the arena’s completion was perfect, too, because they’ll be able to spend many hours out there during the Christmas holidays. “It’s a busy little rink. It would be a lot busier if we could have some friends over,” he said. The current restrictions prevent them from having anyone over for a game of shinny or to skate on the ice, but he hopes that the current restrictions will be lifted in the
near future, so that people can come over and skate on the ice. “It’s a busy neighbourhood, so there would usually be kids here, or (my boys would be) over at a friend’s house. With three boys, you have to get some exercise into them.” Hunt knows of a couple of other people who have built rinks of their own in order to help their families stay active and have some fun outdoors during the winter season.
Make It Merry! The spirit is building and we want to say,
Have a happy holiday!
One thing that we know is true, Is we couldn’t have made it without all of you! 102 Perkins Street 306-634-3553 • 306-421-3557
306-634-2616
We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
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December 23, 2020 A9
Christmas Decoration
T W INKLE TOUR SCAV ENGER HUNT Santa ________________________________ Candy Cane ___________________________ Wreath _______________________________ North Pole Sign ________________________ Snowman _____________________________ Carolers ______________________________ Elf ___________________________________ Giant Present __________________________ Angel _________________________________ Peace Sign ____________________________
Rudolph ______________________________ Spiral Tree ____________________________ Joy Sign ______________________________ Christmas Train ________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Polar Bear_____________________________ Stocking ______________________________ Teddy Bear ____________________________ Snowflake _____________________________ Toy Soldier ____________________________
Pointsettia ____________________________ Gingerbread Man_______________________ Snowglobe ____________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Mrs. Claus ____________________________ 3 Deer ________________________________ Sleigh ________________________________ Paw Patrol_____________________________ Snoopy _______________________________ Big Ornament __________________________
Bonus: Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate House for sale: __________________________________________________________
HOW TO PLAY:
Name: ________________________________
1) Cut this out 2) Drive around town & find the items on the list 3) Write down the address 4) Drop off at the Estevan Mercury, 68 Souris Avenue 5) Watch the January 13th Estevan Mercury for the winner 6) Have fun #makingmemories.
Phone Number: _________________________
There are so many houses lit up all over town this year. DON’T MISS THESE ONES! 1271 King Street 1601 Grundeen Crescent 825 Eva Street 508 Albert street Spruce Drive 300 block Peterson Frehlick Bay 430 426 Brooks Galloway Street
P I CK U P A T R EAT FO R YO UR
Tour!
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Stuckey Road (first left after Woodlawn Golf 426 Brooks Road Course entrance) 1400 2nd Street South of Roche Percee on Hwy 39 300 block 3rd Street Over by West Valley Edge 1300 3rd Street Newcombe Drive 8th Street Heading out of town towards Stoughton(Hwy47) Woodlawn Regional Park Festival of Lights (after Dec 18) Collins Road Music on 1st Street If you find any other gems, email dtarnes@estevanmercury.ca! Jubilee Place
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2020
December 18, 2020 - January 8, 2021
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A10 December 23, 2020
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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
A Message From The Mayor On behalf of Council & Staff we would like to wish everyone the very best the Christmas Season has to offer . Stay Safe and Healthy.
QUOTE REQUIREMENT
Bylaw
The City of Estevan, Parks Department invites your company to submit a sealed quote to SUPPLY AND DELIVER OF FLOWERS for our flower beds within the City of Estevan for the spring planting of 2021. The opening of the quote will take place on January 14, 2021 at 1:30 CST to a zoom meeting due to Covid-19 restrictions. Substitution need to be listed in the final quote. If no specific type or color is indicated please use the best type suited for that location. Criteria: Delivery Date of Tuesday May 25, 2021 at 9:00 am at the City of Estevan Maintenance Yard. Unloading of product is the responsibility of the Company. Flowers to be in Full Bloom by June 15, 2021. Warranty must include, at the time of arrival the plants must be sturdy, healthy and have flowering buds or have started to bloom. Any weak plants that die in the first two weeks must be replaced. In the quote please Include: Price of Flowers. If the greenhouse doesn’t carry the exact species or type of flower, please indicated the type or species it will replace. So new color or species can be changed in the planting diagrams. Shipping and Handling. If shipping is not available, please indicate that in your quote price. Warranty. Quotes must be submitted in writing to City Hall no later than January 14, 2021 at 1:30 pm CST. Mailing Address: City of Estevan, 1102 4th Street, Estevan, SK, S4A 0W7 - Attn: Shannon Wanner – 2021 Flower Quote For more information and list of flowers please contact: Shannon Wanner, Parks Foreperson, 306-634-1833, Parks.foreman@estevan.ca
RECREATION SCHEDULE
EFFECTIVE - DECEMBER 21, 2020 JANUARY 31, 2021
Please help keep our sidewalks safe so all citizens can enjoy a safe walk assage Bylaw 2016-1963 The occupier of property in the City of Estevan shall remove any snow, ice or other obstruction from the public sidewalk adjacent to such property within twenty-four (24) hours of the time such snow, ice or other obstruction appears on such public sidewalk.
WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE GRIT 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM EASY STRETCH 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SKATING SCHEDULE MONDAY DECEMBER 21 SPIN 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM • SPIN/CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM PRESCHOOL PUCK TIME 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM SPIN 6:30 PM - 7:10 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 23 PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM FAMILY SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM FAMILY SKATE 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SATURDAY DECEMBER 26 FAMILY SKATE 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM TUESDAY DECEMBER 29 A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM WEIGHT ROOM 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM SKATING SCHEDULE FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SUNDAY DECEMBER 27 FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM GRIT 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE EASY STRETCH 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM SPIN 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM • SPIN/CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 AM - 10:15 AM PRIVATE RENTAL WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FOAM ROLLER 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM SKATING SCHEDULE WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SKATING SCHEDULE FAMILY SKATE 12:15 PM - 1:30 PM SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM SPIN 6:30 PM - 7:10 PM TWINKLE SKATE 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM FAMILY SKATE 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM SKATING SCHEDULE WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 30 TUESDAY DECEMBER 22 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM • 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM THURSDAY DECEMBER 24 FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM MONDAY DECEMBER 28 A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE FITNESS SCHEDULE CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 AM - 10:15 AM SPIN 9:10 A M - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:15 AM - 10:55 AM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM Don’t see what you are looking for? Do you have an idea for something we should try? Schedule Subject to Change. Please visit www.estevan.ca for updates on closures and cancellations. Proper footwear and exercise wear is required to participate. Please note during Please contact the Recreation Program Manager at 306-634-1880. We would love to hear your ideas! school breaks, (Teachers Conventions, Spring Breaks and Christmas Breaks) Fitness, Aquatic Centre and arena schedules may vary. Please visit our live schedules at www.estevan.ca
FOAM ROLLER 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM SPIN 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM THURSDAY DECEMBER 31 LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM A.I.S. 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM SURF & SWIM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:15 AM - 10:55 AM FRIDAY JANUARY 1 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM SKATING SCHEDULE PARENT & TOT SKATE 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM FAMILY SKATE 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM SATURDAY JANUARY 2 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM SUNDAY JANUARY 3 LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM LANE SWIM 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM FAMILY SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM FITNESS SCHEDULE SPIN 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • SPIN 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM
Energy
Wednesday, December 23, 2020
A11
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Province concerned about carbon tax increase Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Friday the next major environmental initiatives with reference to climate change, and the cornerstone is an increase of the federal carbon tax from the current $30 per tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2) to $170 per tonne by 2030. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe replied that the prime minister and his thenenvironment minister lied about the carbon tax. The new plan is called A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. Trudeau said, “As we continue to address the impacts of COVID-19 and ensure our strong economic recovery, we must also continue to fight climate change for the good of Canadians, our economy and our planet. Canadians don’t have to choose between clean air and good jobs. This strengthened climate plan will help us build a healthier, fairer and more resilient future that we can be proud to pass on to our children and grandchildren.” The plan repeatedly refers to “carbon pollution.” The carbon tax started in 2019 at $20 per tonne, and was initially meant to rise $10 per tonne each year to 2022, when it would then be $50 per tonne. The new announcement will mean an increase of $15 per tonne for the eight following years, such that by 2030, the tax will be $170 per tonne.
The federal government’s backgrounder noted this will be done “while returning the proceeds back to households such that the majority receive more money back than they pay in provinces where the federal system applies.” In addition to the continually increasing carbon tax, the federal government will be imposing a new Clean Fuel Standard, with the intention of reducing carbon intensities. Initially this was meant to be applied to solid, liquid and gaseous fuels, but the Dec. 11 announcement backgrounder noted, “In the context of the continued increase to the carbon price, the scope of the Clean Fuel Standard has been narrowed to cover only liquid fossil fuels.” Saskatchewan Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre has in recent months repeatedly referred to the Clean Fuel Standard as a “second carbon tax.” The plan noted, “The government will continue to return all proceeds back to Canadian families and their communities, ensuring that the majority of households receive more in payments than they face in costs. These payments will move from annual to quarterly payments starting as early as 2022.” It also says it will be “revenue neutral.” Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and no-
tably the former Minister of Environment and Climate Change who initially implemented the carbon tax, said in a release, “Climate action is about good jobs, Canadian innovation, clean air and water, more inclusive communities and, most of all, a better future for our kids. If we take the same approach to the climate crisis as we are to the COVID-19 pandemic – urgency, science-based decisions, working together across borders and focusing on the planet we want for everyone – we will win the race against climate, too.” Pre m i e r S c o t t M o e pulled no punches in his response, which he released in an emailed statement on Friday. Moe said, “Justin Tr udeau and Cather ine McKenna lied to Canadians. Just before the last election they vowed that they would not raise the carbon tax. Trudeau has now announced that the carbon tax will be jacked up nearly six times what it is today by 2030. “This massive increase comes at a time when hardworking families in Saskatchewan are looking for certainty, not added costs. Now is not the time to hike the cost of living by increasing fuel and adding uncertainty to our economic drivers. “The Trudeau government should be showing leadership, working with provinces, and working in
Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.
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With the carbon tax now slated to rise to $170 per tonne of CO2 by 2030, coalfired power production may prove untenable long before the mandated phaseout of coal. File photo partnership to invest in the pathways needed to reduce emissions. The focus should be on new technology and innovation in our industries, such as carbon capture and storage or electrifying flare gas emissions, rather than focusing on a single carbon tax that will increase the cost of everything. “The Trudeau government had previously committed to consultations on any increase to the carbon tax beyond 2022, but no such consultations with myself, the Environment Minister or the province occurred. “Our government will continue fighting this ineffective and unconstitutional carbon tax that only serves to penalize the daily activities and livelihoods of Saskatchewan people.”
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It’s been a tough year. But all across Saskatchewan, we’re thankful for every worker on the frontlines who’s helping our families get through this pandemic, together.
From all of us at SGEU, have a safe, healthy and happy holiday.
A12 December 23, 2020
www.estevanmercury.ca
Flashback – Dec. 21, 1966
Flashback – Dec. 23, 1970
The ladies’ auxiliary to the Royal Canadian Legion installed the following executive at their Christmas meeting: seated, from left, Sadie Noren, past-president, Lucille Edmondson, president, Corry Gibson, first vice-president and Joyce Hassard, second vice-president. Back row, Vera Jellinek, Lilah Spearing, Louise Attrill, Gladys Knight, Olive Hitchcock, Dora Mays and Mrs. Williams.
Like Santa’s Elves, the Canada Post office staff was madly rushed at Christmas. Bags upon bags of letters, cards, parcels jam the back of the post office twice daily, and although Postmaster George Lawrence says the mail flow eases off a day here and there, the Mercury camera caught Albert Petrash and Jim Smith preparing these three carts of mail to be distributed in Estevan.
Flashback – Dec. 22, 1976
Flashback – Dec. 23, 1987
Kindergarten and Grade 1,2 and 3 students of Pleasantdale School presented the operetta Santa Claus and the Little Green Man under direction of Marg Delainey and Pat O’Greysik at the end of December 1976. Student in the middle playing Mrs. Claus is Laurel Buck.
The Sigma Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi has been operating a gift wrapping service at the Estevan Shoppers Mall during the holiday season, and the Mercury camera caught Hilary Barber, left, and Connie Berg putting the finishing touches on a pair of sizable gifts. Money raised from the gift wrapping were distributed to various community charities.
Flashback – Dec. 23, 1992
Flashback – Dec. 27, 1995
Linda Robins, centre, of the Salvation Army accepts a $200 donation from Macoun school students (clockwise, from bottom left) Kristine Gustafson, Amanda Bachorcik, Kathryn Gustafson, Suzanne Kuchinka, Tyson Snider and Danielle Vandenhurk. The money was raised through a silver collection at the school’s Christmas concert.
This is not an addition to the Saskatchewan fine arts curriculum but rather a group of teachers and one director of education having a run at some cheerleading fun during the annual teacher talents time on the last day of school in 1995. The educators presented their limited talents to a packed Cafetorium of students. From left, director Larry Steeves, teachers Collin Grunert, Justin Giesbrecht, Gord McMurtry and principal Maurice Jago.
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Lori Carr, MLA
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www.estevanmercury.ca
December 23, 2020 A13
GoFundMe campaign launched for Estevan girl A GoFundMe campaign that has been created for a young Estevan girl has received excellent support. The campaign, named Olivia Hirsch – Seattle, WA Clinic Trial, was started by Olivia’s mother Jen, and is raising funds for Olivia to receive a treatment in Seattle for an inoperable brain tumour. As of Thursday at 7:30 a.m., it had raised $10,042, more than two-thirds of the way to its goal of $15,000. Thus far it had 52 donors. In her post, Jen Hirsch said that at the end of April, Olivia was rushed by ambulance to Jim Pattison Children's Hospital in Saskatoon. The following days were a blur and their worst nightmare. “Olivia was diagnosed with DIPG (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma) which is an inoperable brain tumour located in the pons area of the brain stem and her disease had progressed to the point that within a day or two of
being admitted into the hospital, she had lost the ability to walk, speak and eat and we were told that she may only have a week or two left to live,” Jen Hirsch wrote. Her parents, Jen and Aaron, had the choice to either take her home to begin hospice care or try radiation treatment. Her medical team was concerned that she would not make it through the first two weeks due to the swelling these treatments inevitably cause, but they felt they needed to try it, and so they prepared to face their next big challenge. “We knew that many, many people were praying for her, sending energy healing and just good vibes and I know in my heart that that had a big impact on how things turned out,” Jen said. Olivia began radiation and made it through those dangerous first two weeks with no adverse side effects, and has been getting stronger ever since. She has regained
the ability to walk, talk, dance and play. As of her August MRI, her tumour has decreased in size by about 60 per cent, which was much better than anyone expected as Jen described DIPG as stubborn and aggressive. Oftentimes, despite radiation treatments, it will not shrink at all or will even continue to grow. The Hirschs applied to have Olivia enrolled in a clinical trial for an experimental drug called ONC201, which is not available in Canada. ONC201 targets the DRD2 dopamine receptor, which is over-expressed in kids with DIPG, while leaving healthy cells alone. Jen described it as the most promising clinical trial available, and side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, are minimal and though it isn't a cure, it buys them time while they wait for one. In September, they had a teleconference with Dr. Vitanza, a pediatric neuro-
oncologist from Seattle who specializes in DIPG. He told the family that there were nine spots left, and that kids would be enrolled three at a time, every few months. They learned in October that Olivia had not been chosen and they were disappointed but still positive that even though there were no guarantees, eventually she would get in. “A couple weeks later, we got a call letting us know that she was picked, last-minute out of a lottery of 12 other kids to be accepted into the trial,” Jen said. With 11 days to spare, Olivia had a few tests done, they got their passports, and they were off to Seattle. Her husband’s sister and brotherin-law flew out there to be with them and help them so they could focus their attention on Olivia. “Olivia has been doing so well; she quickly learned to swallow pills, has not had any side effects, and her appetite
A GoFundMe campaign for Olivia Hirsch has received excellent support. Photo submitted and strength are improving,” Jen wrote. They will have to return to Seattle every nine weeks for the next two years, so they will be fundraising through GoFundMe and other platforms to help with living and travel expenses. “We believe with our whole hearts that Olivia will
get through this, and we thank you for your help in making it possible through your continued prayers, positivity and support. We have been blessed with the most loving and helpful family, friends and neighbours and are so grateful to everyone in our community. We love and appreciate you all.”
Ho-Ho-Hope It’s Happy!
What’s Inside?
Our best wishes for a Merry Christmas, of course! Thank you for being such an important part of our year.
Greetings at the Holidays and best wishes always! With gratitude for shopping local. 481 DEVONIAN ST. 306.634.2114 or 306.634.2143 rrl@sasktel.net
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Thanking You Is at the
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We hope your holiday season is equipped with all of the fixings that matter most.
Merry Christmas!
80 King Street, E., Estevan, SK
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On behalf of Council and Staff I am pleased to wish our community a healthy and happy Christmas Season and all the very best in the New Year. Sincerely, Mayor Roy Ludwig
Merry Christmas
Thank You
and to wish our valued customers, vendors and friends, a very
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A14 December 23, 2020
www.estevanmercury.ca
Farmers' Market wraps up successful Christmas season By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
The Estevan Farmers' Market Christmas edition wrapped up their season on Dec. 19. Marilyn Simons, who is the farmers' market incoming manager, said that it was indeed a different experience. "We were curious how this year was going to turn out for our sales as we weren't sure if the restrictions or the lineups would deter people from spending a day with us. We were pleasantly surprised to see that we actually exceeded last year's sales," Simons said. She added that they attribute the success of the season to the fact that more customers were supporting local. "We have a wonderful tight-knit community that truly relies on each other and it shows." The market had a great turn out every week. They had a steady customer flow each Saturday. They also added two Moonlight Madness Friday sales later in the season, which saw a bit fewer people attending. "The new Friday sales (were) a bit slower. We did decide to add them later so we will see in future years if we make it a regular occurrence, how they will fair," Simons noted. Additional Friday eve-
Trent Willerton was shopping at the Christmas Farmers Market, and Rosanda Eagles was out with their sweet delights. ning sales were a vendor's idea. Simons said that they approached her and their other on-site manager as well as some other vendors and it just fell into place. "We all thought as our tables were already set up, why not, let's try it. They were a great addition to the market. Sales were great and we hope to let customers know to watch for more of these evening sales in the future." Due to COVID-related restrictions, they couldn't accept any new vendors this season, but nevertheless, they had close to 20 vendors from
y r r e M as m t s i r h C
previous years participating every time, which was also a great turnout. This year was different in a sense of the set-up as well, as the farmers' market occupied an empty mall space between Nutter's and Sport Check as opposed to being spread around the mall halls, as they did before. This allowed to accommodate all vendors, and also to control customer flow, ensuring safe shopping. For market participants, this experience turned out to be pretty positive and the hope is that it will continue.
"We appreciate all that Arlene (Stebeleski, the mall manager) and her staff are doing in the mall for us. It's a great cozy area that hopefully, we can utilize again not just in our spring sales but other times as well. That will be something the mall and the market will hopefully be able to discuss in the future," Simons said. The mall staff was able to help with all safety measures and put in countless hours organizing everything for the farmers' market ahead of time, so it could go as smooth as possible.
"We are truly blessed to be able to work with them each year," Simons said. The market also had a draw table on the second-last Friday/Saturday, where customers could enter for free to win some Farmers’ Market gift certificates. They sell these gift certificates, which are a unique gift idea as they are valid at any of the market vendors, all year. "Gift ideas are endless with them," added Simons. She said that despite all the changes this Christmas, the Farmers' Market was a success, thanks to all people
involved. "I would like to specifically thank some individuals and groups for making these Christmas Sales possible and successful. "I would like to thank Arlene and the mall staff for their hours and hours of hard work getting that room ready, not only constructionwise but making it COVID compliant as well. You made our jobs way less stressful. "I would like to thank my co-manager, Marlene (Salmers). She not only organizes lists and helps the vendors on the day of the market, but behind the scenes and in between markets she works so hard ensuring our day runs smoothly. "I would like to thank the vendors for stay ing strong and understanding. They truly are a family away from home. They support one another, encourage one another and always have each other's interests at the forefront. "Lastly, but most importantly, I would like to thank the customers. Without you, there would be no market. You stood in line and waited patiently to come see us. We know sometimes that the line-up was long and tiresome, and so we appreciate each and every one of you for enduring that for us. "We hope to see everyone again at the indoor spring sales.”
GRIEVING AT CHRISTMAS We are surrounded by reminders of tradition. For some it might be the smell of a Christmas tree or fresh baking coming out of the oven. For others, it will be a Christmas song playing on the radio or decorations hung in various retail stores. While the Christmas season brings excitement and joy to many, we are ever mindful that for just as many, the season brings reminders of times shared with loved ones who have passed away. These memories can be comforting for some but can bring intense sadness to others. In the midst of a pandemic, which has filled our lives with uncertainty and restrictions, grief is easily compounded, especially at this time of year. If you have been thinking about reaching out to a family member or friend, to offer a listening ear or other act of kindness, this would be a wonderful time to do so. While the experience of grief can be very isolating, we would like to help you take steps to counter the feelings of loneliness and disconnection. We have literature available with helpful tips on getting through the Christmas season after a loss. While the articles in our grief library can make a difference in your day-to-day life, please don’t hesitate to call us should you need additional support. We will do our best to ease your bereavement and, if requested, provide a referral to a local grief counsellor or therapist.
www.futuresignsinc.com
Thank you for your continued support.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
If you are looking for a way to reach out to a friend or family member this holiday season, this is something to consider. We have partnered up with our friends at MyBabbo to offer some beautiful keepsake items for purchase. You can find on our Facebook page, a link with all of the details and pricing. As a special Christmas gift, we are offering a 30% discount on these items until January 10, by using the promo code: HallGIFT. On behalf of the entire Hall Funeral Services family, we would like to send our wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas. Photo Gifting
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Wednesday, December 23, 2020
A15
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Santa spent a day having fun in Bienfait
Cheers Cheers to the beautiful, historic Orpheum Theatre. The different show times are good, as are the matinees. Small town heart, with big city service, this is a high-calibre venue. We are very happy it is open again. Cheers to whoever placed candy canes on vehicles at shopping areas in Estevan on a Saturday afternoon. People really appreciated the gesture. Cheers to everybody who supported the Community Hamper Association and the Angel Tree Program. Thanks for helping people have a better Christmas this year. Cheers to the Estevan Kinettes Club for another enjoyable PJ Project. The kids are always excited to get new pyjamas on Christmas Day. Cheers to everybody who has reached out to senior citizens in care homes in the past few weeks. The residents have enjoyed getting the letters, cards and messages. Cheers to the Estevan Kinsmen and Kinettes Clubs for adding a second ice surface at the Kin Hillside Playpark this year. The kids are happy to learn to skate without having to worry about hockey games.
Jeers Jeers to the lack of activity that we saw in our arenas in the weeks leading up to Christmas. It’s sad that kids could only practice, and that nobody could have a game. Jeers to those who complain about check stops happening in town, or to those who announce the location of a check stop on social media. Catching impaired drivers is more important than your sense of inconvenience.
Santa Claus met with Thane Abbott, Bonnie Bernhardt and Bryton Stovin during a visit to Bienfait on Dec. 13. Photo submitted Santa Claus made an appearance in Bienfait on Dec. 13, spending the day posing for photos with local residents and skating with young people. The Bienfait Fire Department brought St. Nicholas to town. Daniyale Lalonde, who is one of the town’s firefighters, said they toured the town with Santa riding in a fire truck. “There were a lot of kids out in Bienfait that were really
excited to see Santa Claus, and that’s probably the biggest highlight of all,” said Lalonde. If there were kids waiting for them in front of a house, then Santa and the firefighters stopped and posed for a socially distanced photo. The kids also received some hot chocolate packets, candy and candy canes. Lalonde believes they likely visited 40 or 50 kids during the day. “One corner we came
around and the kids were already outside waiting for us, and we could see them jumping up and down, with excitement, waiting for us to get there,” said Lalonde. Santa loved the ride on the fire truck, she said. A Skate with Santa followed at the Bienfait Memorial Arena. Santa Claus joined the local youths for some fun on the ice. “Santa told me that it went over really well. He
To submit a cheer or a jeer, please email it to dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca, or visit www.estevanmercury.ca.
Wishing everyone a safe and fun holiday season.
Estevan, SK 306.634.7567
The family of Georgina (Jean) (nee Walsh) Peters Oshmak would like to wish our mother, grandmother, great‐grandmother, and great‐great‐grandmother th
A Very Happy 90 Birthday on Dec. 27, 2020!
Mom lived in Swift Current, Sask., before moving to Estevan, Sask. with her family. Love your children, Joan, Marge, Wayne, Leyster, Brenda, and families!
played some hockey with the kids, and he had a good time,” said Lalonde. About 20 kids were on the ice with him for each hour that it ran, which was the maximum number they could have. Lalonde was working in the kitchen, because the rink board was having an appetizer night. Due to the current restrictions, the Bienfait rink’s kitchen isn’t running like it normally does, so they thought Dec. 13 would be a good night to have a fundraiser with takeout meals that allowed people to have rink food at home. The fire department believes it was important to have an event like Santa’s day in Bienfait for the community. “For the kids to be able to see Santa, and to get the pictures with him, I think the pictures for a lot of families were important because they don’t have the opportunity to do that.” And as part of the photos and the skate, the fire department also collected food and cash donations for the Estevan Salvation Army’s food bank. They didn’t collect a lot of cash donations, but she had a vehicle filled with food that she was looking forward to delivering.
Sending Out Our Best Wishes Hope it’s merry, bright and filled with good friends, good times and good fortune!
Thanks for choosing us! Our connection to this community is something we really appreciate.
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kids speak What do you hope Santa brings you this year?
NEVEAH FEDYK
Age: 6
“Osmo. You have to spell things and you play versus someone.”
Elizabeth Culham
Age: 6
“A watch, because it has cool games.”
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Minor Football recognizes its award winners Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football has recognized its award winners for the 2020 season. For the Estevan Power Dodge U10 Cudas, the winners are TJ Thompson (team most valuable player [MVP]), Jake Hockey (offensive MVP), Mason Lesy (defensive MVP), Nash Faber (sportsmanship), Tucker Karcha (most improved) and
Mercedes Paterson won the Bryan Illerbrun Memorial Award for dedication to football. Photo submitted
Brody Hogg (Canuckcade most dedicated). The winners for the Estevan Century 21 U12 Chargers were: Corbin Barker (MVP), Kaleb Crossman (offensive player of the year), Turner Peterson (defensive player of the year), Gage Goetz (sportsmanship), Kayla Mitchell (most improved), Connor Mercer (most driven and dedicated) and Keegan Park (rookie of the year). For the Estevan Lions Club U14 Oilers, the winners were Tristan Tober (team MVP), Dorian Sifton (offensive player of the year), Brody Bembridge (defensive player of the year), Mercedes Paterson (sportsmanship), Owen Massett (most improved) and Payton Tendler (rookie of the year). The winners for the Estevan Kinette Club U18 Viragos female team were Kishi Rioferio (team MVP and offensive MVP), Katr yna Heleta (defensive MVP), Hailey Duke (most improved), Mercedes Paterson (most sportsmanlike), Ella Schenher (rookie of the year), Amanda March (offensive lineman of the year) and Abby Renkas (defensive lineman of the year). This year was the first
From left, James Lewis, Holly Boreski, Chris Lewis and Savanna Lewis. Missing are Zachary and Darian Lewis were the recipients of Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football’s Volunteer Family of the Year. Photo submitted for the Viragos. Two other awards have also been announced. Chris Lewis, Holly Boreski and family won the Volunteer Family Award, and Mercedes Paterson won the Bryan Illerbrun Memorial Award for dedication. EMF president Kevin Mortenson said the LewisBoreski family was selected because not only have Lewis and Boreski volunteered, but their four children have all played minor football at some point. “In the past Chris has
been coaching with both the Cudas and the Chargers, and Holly has been a manager for probably just about every team, with the exception of the Viragos,” said Mortenson. As such, she has been heavily involved with teams off the field. Boreski and her son James have attended an officials’ clinic and James has officiated, while Boreski has run the scoreboard. “ T h e y ’re won d e r f u l to have down there,” said Mortenson.
They’re among the dedicated families for Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football. Paterson, meanwhile, has been playing in minor football for about six years. Mortenson said she played with both the Oilers and the Viragos, so she was practising five times a week, and playing twice on some weekends. “She’s mostly been playing on the offensive line, and she has played some defensive line here in the past few years. The other girls look up
to her and the boys look up to her, too,” said Mortenson. She is also a team leader, and minor football can never have enough of those players, both on and off the field. During the construction of new locker rooms, Paterson and her father helped out. Paterson was also part of the South Selects football team earlier this year, and has attended camps for the Regina Riot. Mortenson predicted she could join the Riot, a female tackle football team, once she is eligible.
Kin clubs excited for outdoor rinks to open It’s one of the surefire signs that winter has arrived: the Estevan Kinsmen and Kinettes have started working on the outdoor rink at their park in the Hillside subdivision. And since the main rink that opened in 2017 has been a popular attraction, they have built a second ice surface. The Kin members started installing the ice on the primary surface on Dec. 11, and they began building the second surface the following day. The process of building up the main ice surface saw Kin club members flood the ice numerous times to build it up. Estevan Kinsmen Club president Preston Majeran was looking forward to it being ready by Dec. 18, which was the final day of school before Christmas holidays. The concrete slab at the outdoor rink is in excellent shape, he said, after it was repaired in the fall. “ We put a nice little crown on it, so we should be good to go,” said Majeran. “The slab cured perfectly, and we’ll see how the winter fares with it.” Majeran said the Kinsmen club has been waiting to get to work on the arena. People have been asking about when the ice would be going in. Kin club members were waiting for the time in which the temperatures would be cold enough. He hoped that people would stay off the ice until
it was ready, so that it’s not chipping. People could get hurt if they’re on the ice too soon. He was looking forward to when kids could be out on the ice. “It gives people something to look forward to, and stuff to do,” said Majeran. The second surface was added so that more families can come out and learn to skate and enjoy time on the ice. “People wanted some place where they could skate with their kids, and without pucks flying around, and so we decided to go with the second ice surface, just to let the families and the young kids skate, and let them enjoy it,” said Majeran. At 24 feet by 48 feet, it’s considerably smaller than the outdoor arena’s surface, but it’s still a good enough size for young people to skate. “This is just a trial year this year,” said Majeran. “We just wanted to see how it goes over. We’ll look at the use and how the surface held up. We’ll review it in the spring and see what else we can do.” The Kin club members have been receiving calls from people who have been looking for another skating option. The boards for the second ice sheet are low, so that kids can access it easily. Kin members were busy flooding the ice last week so that it would be ready for the start of Christmas holidays. He asks that the pub-
lic not use hockey sticks or pucks on the second ice surface. “We expect to see ev-
er ybody on there. W hen there’s a little pickup game of shinny on the main surface, and people just want to skate
Corey McLean, left, and Preston Majeran stand where a second outdoor rink will be located in the Kin Hillside Playpark.
Just a Little Holiday Hello
around, they can go to the second ice surface.” Due to provincial health guidelines, the warm-up shack is not going to be open this winter, so Majeran said they have to figure out a way for people to put on skates
and walk to the ice. He stressed this was a decision due to provincial health orders, rather than a city of Estevan or a Kin decision, but once people get on the ice, they can still have a fun time.
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Equi-cise: Exercise for horses and their humans By Lisa McCullough DeAnna Lyke, a horsewoman from Stoughton, has started a fun new activity for people and their horses this winter that she is calling 'Equi-cise' Lyke has been involved in horses her entire life; she runs her own business called On Board Equine Services. She is also a farrier and a horse trainer. Lyke is involved in many horse clubs and enjoys introducing people to the world of horses. “Equi-cise was inspired as a way to help people stay active and still offer support from others. It has the added benefit of allowing people to spend time with their horses” Lyke explains. E q u i - c i s e c on s i s t s of four people and their four horses who are spaced around the arena, which is used like an exercise track at a gym. Each person leads their horse around the outside of the track. Some people choose to ride their horses due to health conditions that make walking painful. The sand in the arena makes the exercise much more of a workout for both horse and human. Participants choose their speed and when they catch up to the person in front of them they shout “Pineapple” and the group changes directions. The 45-minute session is broken down into 10-minute intervals with
breaks in between. Each week has some added challenges to keep it fresh. “The goal for Equi-cise is to allow people to exercise in a way that does not feel like exercise. So far I think it really hits its mark.” Lyke explains. She goes on to say that classes so far have shown participants having a lot of fun whether they are really active and competitive or just spend the entire session walking. “What is great to see is the way the horses connect with their people during the breaks. The horses are a great support as they are happy to go whatever speed their leader goes. There is a lot of laughing during the class and that is what is most important right now. I think people are needing something to look forward to that allows them to have fun and laugh at each other. It’s entertaining to see competitive natures come out in people who you wouldn't expect to be competitive” Lyke says. If you are wanting to join this fun winter event you still can. There are a few weeks left in the December session and in January Lyke will be starting an eightweek session. “ We always tr y to accommodate new participants and encourage people to sign up with a friend of family member – it is only 10 dollars each that way!” Lyke explains. You can contact Lyke via Facebook or by calling (306) 698-7170.
Stephanie Zoer rides Misty, with Krystal Zoer aboard Becky the mini mule in the background. Photo submitted by Dee Lyke
Kym Vanstavern and her black and white Pinto horse, Flicka. Photo submitted by Dee Lyke
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December 23, 2020 B3
Estevan legion proved its financial stability By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
The financial issues of a few years ago are officially over for the Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. A lot of thoughtful work and effort were put into it, and on Dec. 15 at their annual general meeting, they finally announced some great news. "We had some financial difficulties a few years ago, and Saskatchewan command installed an advisory committee to watch over us. We've been under the advisory committee for four years. And as of (Dec. 15) we've been released from
the advisory committee," said Royal Canadian Legion Estevan branch president Jim (Frosty) Forrest. "It's good work that the branch has done and the support of the community as well." The legion also held the election of officers the same night. Forrest was re-elected as the branch president for the next two years. Tyson Wilhelm was elected the first vice-president. Willie Forrest is now the second vicepresident. Leonard Grube was elected the legion’s treasurer, and Willie Forrest is also sergeant at arms. Other executive officers were also elected. The legion also dis-
cussed all the donations they were able to provide to the community this year. Their annual truck raffle was a big success in 2019. The money raised from it, combined with other funds gained through bingos and other gaming activities, organized by the legion, allowed them to provide $43,000 in donations to various organizations. The donations varied from $100 to a few thousand, benefitting numerous groups including the Estevan and District Music Festival, Child Find Saskatchewan, Estevan Minor Baseball, Southeast Military Museum, St. Joseph's Hospital Addiction Treatment Centre and long-term care
facility, Creighton Lodge, Estevan Regional Nursing Home, United Way Estevan, SMILE Services, STARS Air Ambulance and the Salvation Army's food bank. They also provided food donations to the Ocean Man, Pheasant Rump and White Bear's food banks. With the poppy fund, the Estevan's legion was also able to provide $36,000 in donations, supporting veterans. The poppy fund is a separate volume of money that is raised every year through the poppy campaign and allocated to support veterans. Traditionally, most money raised through the poppy campaign in 2019 was directed towards the Paws for Vets program,
which supplies service dogs for veterans, the Leave the Streets Behind program, which helps homeless vets, and the Veterans Wellness program, which works with general health and wellbeing of veterans. The legion was also able to support the local army and air cadets, as well as the pipe and drum school, and provided bursaries to Estevan Comprehensive School graduates, which all also fall under the fund protocols. Forrest added that 2019 was a very successful year for their fundraisers, so they were able to provide even more donations in 2020. To keep up with their support for the community next year, the Estevan's le-
gion is currently running the truck raffle. The first prize is a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, the second prize is $10,000 cash and the third prize is $5,000 cash. The legion will use all money raised through the raffle to help local charities in 2021. The tickets are $100 and are available at the legion office, Murray GM, Southern Bolt Supplies and Henders Drugs. Legion members will also be out in the community selling tickets throughout the last days of the year, so keep an eye out for the red Chevy truck with the legion's decals. E-transfers are accepted to truck.raffle@sasktel.net. The draw will take place on Dec. 31.
Former Estevan resident supports foundation A former Estevan resident recently made a generous donation, all in the name of local healthcare and pizza. Jeff Sandquist grew up in Estevan, resides in Seattle and had hoped to return to Estevan this year to visit family and friends. He’s been unable to do so due to the current COVID-19 travel restrictions. “I miss my hometown, my friends and family who live in Estevan,” said Sandquist. “This is my way to connect with home and say thank you to first responders and healthcare workers at St. Joseph’s Hospital.” Sandquist is making a $10,000 donation to the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation in support of their recent Festival of Trees and local healthcare in southeast Saskatchewan. “St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and the hospital staff are incredibly grateful for Jeff ’s contribution. This donation will go a long way in
supporting our hospital this holiday season,” said Breanne Van De Woestyne, executive director at St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation. “I am inspired to see support coming in not only from our local community, but also from those that moved around the world, who still choose to give back right here at home.” Sandquist is also sponsoring a day of free Tower Café pizza for healthcare workers at St. Joseph’s Hospital. “As soon as we can travel again, I can’t wait to visit home,” said Sandquist. “And the first thing I’m eating is a pizza from Tower Café. I thought it would be fun to buy some pizza for healthcare workers in the area as a thank you for all the work that they do.” Sandquist is challenging all residents of Estevan, both former and current, to support St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and local area restaurants during this season.
Heather Selk thanks former Estevan resident Jeff Sandquist for his contribution to healthcare at St. Joseph's Hospital. Photo submitted
Senior Living
A monthly supplement
Creighton Lodge November column Submitted by Shelly Veroba Last month I predicted the weather was going to be crazy, but I am thankful that I was wrong. The weather was great. Finally something wonderful in 2020 to talk about. The residents were out walking on a few of the sunny days and some have been able to take their cars for a drive without fearing the snow. It was just a great November as far as the weather goes. The Royal Canadian Legion’s Estevan branch brought us a poppy tray so that we could support the legion and wear our poppies in memory of those who fought for our freedom. This year we weren’t able to host the legion and have a Remembrance Day service. Some watched the services that were on the television and others took time Trinity Tower has been proudly serving the community of Estevan by providing a friendly, senior living community for over 30 years! Suites are now available to accommodate your individual needs through a one bedroom and den life lease with guaranteed buy-back or government subsidized rentals.
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to reflect on their own. In November we welcomed a couple new faces to the lodge. Mabel Bouchard, who had been patiently waiting for a call, moved in first. Mabel came just in time as her birthday was coming so we can celebrate with her. Then we welcomed Lila Forseth, who is just a delight. Lila seems to be fitting in quite well and is getting to know her way around the lodge. Both of our new residents enjoy a good game of Bingo. Our cocktail hours were fun. The ladies made Harvey Wallbangers, a few paralyzers, the odd rum and ginger ale. A bud light was enjoyed and finished up with a nice rye and coke. We offer nonalcoholic drinks, too, just so we include everyone who likes to come out. Non-alchoholic beer even made an appearance this month and we found it to be quite tasty.
I think for December we should try a Moscow Mule or eggnog and rum. We will keep you posted on which cocktail is the new favourite. We hosted the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation tea and it was so much fun. We brought out the good china tea cups, perked a pot of tea and then the ladies from the foundation dropped off dainties, information about the foundation and gift bags donated by Sun Country Hearing. The gift bags were filled with a beautiful tea cup and spoon, glass cleaner and so much more. We appreciated the effort that was put into bringing the tea to us instead of cancelling it. Bravo to all involved. We sent our donations over and know they will be put to good use at the hospital. A small group of us ventured out to the Souris Valley Museum for an outing in November. We
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who is left to raise her daughter and the struggles she overcomes because of her connection with horses. It was another great movie that tugged at our heartstrings and had us rooting for the family to come out on top. December is going to bring some Christmas movies, and we can hardly wait to see which ones they will be. There were only two birthdays in November: Emilia Lalonde and Minnie Fleck. We celebrated. We enjoyed birthday treats and then sang Happy Birthday to our special ladies. There was a day when we would buy presents for each resident on their birthday but that tradition was stopped because most seniors have everything materialistic that they could want or need. We found it was the gathering of peers with a treat and a song that was the true gift.
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weighed the pros and cons and decided it was time to get out for a few hours. Art Beselt safely picked us up in the SMILE van, and Mark Veneziano met us at the museum’s door with a welcoming smile. We were the only ones in the museum for a private tour. He allowed us to look around at the displays, answering all our questions and he was very patient with us. Mark even let us venture out to the old school house that was donated by Stanley Durr, who used to live at the lodge. We finished up the afternoon with a cup of coffee and then it was time to head home. We watched the movie We Bought a Zoo and it was great. Filled with laughs and even a few tears. How great to see a dad move mountains to make sure his kids get the best childhood he could provide. Then we watched The Long Shot, which was a movie about a woman
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B4 December 23, 2020
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Envision recommends reaching out, staying active and doing good things to ensure mental health By Ana Bykhovskaia abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
While many people are excited about the upcoming Christmas holidays, quite a few of us may feel down since this holiday season will be pretty different from what we are used to.
In the run-up to the holidays, COVID-style, the Mercury talked to Christa Daku, executive director of Envision Counselling and Support Centre, about mental health tips and resources. "One of the biggest things is to keep an eye out for those
With Thanks,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year The greatest gifts are the people who bring warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces. I would like to wish all of my clients and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope the holiday season and the coming year deliver all of the wonderful things you deserve and more. Best wishes from my home to yours!
1339 4th Street Estevan, SK S4A 0X1
306-634-1020 Lorna Pylychaty
306-421-6847 Lorna.pylychaty@c21.ca
that we love. If we see that they are isolating or having difficulties, it's really important to just have a listening ear, and then find the support that's needed," Daku said. Envision has a variety of programs that help people on a regular basis. But Daku said that if residents feel off and may need some help, the best option would be utilizing their walk-in program. "One of the main programs for individuals that are experiencing a few difficulties in their lives that may want immediate support is to try to reach out to our walk-in program, that's been in operation about a year and a half now. We offer it in Weyburn and Estevan," Daku said. Typically people phone in and book a time in the morning to ensure that they get a spot, and there is no mandate to that program. "Anybody who is experiencing difficulties can reach out,
With Bright Wishes at The Holidays Wishing all our friends, neighbors, patients and associates a holiday season filled with lots of bright smiles and laugher. l
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• Consultation & Support • Business Planning • Co-Working Space • Resource Centre • Grant Writing Support
www.southeastbusinessstartup.ca • (306) 634-3895 403-9th Ave (beside Affinity Credit Union) Please note: Office will be closed December 21, 2020 - January 1, 2021. We will resume regular business hours January 4, 2021.
and the counsellor will have a session with them," Daku said. The Envision centres will be closed between Dec. 24 and Jan. 4 to allow the staff to have a little break. If people need help or experience difficulties during that time, they may call 811 for mental health support or 211 on the Internet for other available resources. "Those are two alternative ways to reach out for some support," Daku said. "We will be back after the Christmas break, but in the meantime, it's important to have support set up for people as well. And those are provincial supports that are open 24/7." Besides, Daku pointed out that just having peer support is very important. And it is also vital to keep an eye out for particular signs. "If there's been a sudden change in someone's behaviour and they are becoming blue and depressed, just not having their typical personality that they display on a regular basis, it's important to ask questions. Are they OK? Dot they need some support? "And I think those of us in society that are feeling relatively healthy during this time, it's important to take this initiative to reach out to those that may be isolated."
Christa Daku, executive director of Envision Counselling and Support Centre Even if an in-person meeting is not an option these holidays, people should consider setting up a video or a phone call with their loved ones on Christmas day, on New Year's Eve or any other time. "We have technology at our hands now, really accessible, and I think it's just important to slow down a little bit and pay attention to those in our circle that we love, and give them a little bit of time." Daku also gave some tips as to how people can keep themselves in good mental shape through the holidays if they start feeling a bit down. "Everybody has those things in their lives that have the potential to make them feel happy, so they should draw on
those," Daku said. Whether it be watching a funny movie, reading a good book, walking a dog or reaching out to a loved one, these things keep us positive. Relying on our strengths is another important step. Physical activity is also very important for mental health. "Something that I find that makes people feel good about themselves is doing something for someone else. If we get a snowfall, is it possible to shovel your neighbour's driveway? It makes us all feel good to be able to give back," Daku concluded. Envision's schedule, walkin program and updates can be found on their website at www. envisioncounsellingcentre.com.
From my family to yours, wishing you joy, peace and hope this holiday season and throughout the New Year!
Merry Christmas!
Dr. Robert Kitchen Member of Parliament Souris-Moose Mountain
1-866-249-4697
www.drrobertkitchen.ca
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FAMILY TIME THIS
CHRISTMAS
Time!
Pharmasave has everything you need to start a new tradition and make some memories! Puzzles • Board Games Trivia Games • Craft Kits • Toys Hot Chocolate • Popcorn & Seasonings Soup Mixes • Spicy Snacks Drink Syrups • Bath Bombs • Bubble Bath
1239 5th Street 306-637-3802
www.estevanmercury.ca
December 23, 2020 B5
Midale fundraising for new fire hall
The fire hall for the Town of Midale and RM of Cymri is in need of replacement, so a fundraising campaign is underway. Photo submitted
The fire department for the Town of Midale and the RM of Cymri has been fundraising for a new fire hall. Laverne Hockey, who is the chief for the department of 14 members, said they have raised about $100,000 already, and their goal is $600,000. They recently held a raffle that included such prizes as some homemade knives and a smoker. “We’ve been saving for a long time for it,” said Hockey. The fire department has also received some donations and some previous fundraisers have allowed them to put some money aside. The Town of Midale, the RM of Cymri and the rescue board have purchased some land, and built a road alongside Highway 39 for the new hall. The pad for the building has been built. Engineers have been working on some drawings, and then they will get some prices for the building. “Some of the equipment is being stored out at the RM of Cymri shop, which is part of the reason that we’re looking for (a new building),” said Hockey. “We need more room out there, too, so we’ll have to find a home for some
We wish you all the best for Christmas and the new year.
Our team wishes you a magical Christmas and a Happy New Year
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
of that stuff.” The firefighters have been eager to move into a new building for some time. The present building is located on Main Street, next to the Town Hall and across the street from the RM of Cymri building. The location of the new hall is near the Quick Stop, but Hockey said it’s still a good location.
“We’ll have easy access to the highway, and if we’re called in town or out of town and almost every direction,” said Hockey. The fire department is going to hold another fundraiser in January. They’ll see how it goes, and how they do for donations, and they hope to start construction fairly soon.
Thank you to Estevan and surrounding areas for your continued support and love, especially during these trying times. We appreciate the acts of kindness, donations and every prayer.
Wishing everyone a special holiday season.
Creighton Lodge
RM OF
COALFIELDS NO.4
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RMSt., OF Bienfait, SK • 306-634-2222 423 Main
COALFIELDS
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NO.4
D R A O B N I T E L L BU Gift Card Fundraiser
Choose Life Ministry & Estevan’s Second Chance Thrift Store is hosting a gift card fundraiser to help raise money for women in need. All Gift Card’s were Donated or Purchased from Local Businesses in Estevan. Tickets can be purchased at Estevan’s Second Chance Thrift Store. 1Ticket for $5.00 or 3 Tickets for $10.00 Draw Date: December 18, 2020
Brought to you by:
Estevan Market Mall Holiday Hours
chooselifeministry.ca
Truck Raffle Royal Canadian Legion Win a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, $10,000 cash, $5000 cash
Draw Date: December 31, 2020 $100/Ticket Get tickets at Murray GM or the Legion
“Where community happens”
Monday - Friday 9 am - 9 pm Saturday 9 am - 6 pm
Kin Canada
Estevan Kinsmen Club
Chase the Ace
Estevan Kinsmen Club Every Thursday night @ 6:00pm at the Black Grasshopper
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm Don’t forget to visit our Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 9am - 2pm
The Estevan Shoppers Mall is now the • Ardene • Dollarama • Eclipse • Marks • Money Mart
• Nutters • Peavey Mart • Pet Valu • Sask Liquor • SaskTel
• Sobeys • SportChek • Star Gift • Studio C Fitness • The Brick
• The Source • Tim Horton’s • Warehouse One LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
400 King Street
B6 December 23, 2020
Thank You
www.estevanmercury.ca
Thank you to our title sponsor Penta Completions for sponsoring us since 2012. This year we built a locker room facility at Dr. Dean Chow Field: Thank you to the following who donated money, work in kind discounted products on their time.
2020 Season & Team Sponsor We’d like to acknowledge our 2020 coaches & managers as well as thank their employers for allowing them the time to help us this season.
U10 Power Dodge Cudas:
Coaches & Managers: Nick Nielsen, Andrew Herperger, Jason Bresciani, Chayton Fornwald, Graeson Nelson, Robbie Mitchell, Angela Fornwald, Kevin Mortenson Power Dodge: U10/Atom Cudas sponsor since 2018
Royal Tank Cleaning
Performance Welding
Sheldon Thacker, Mark Tarnes, Travis Patterson, Mercedes Patterson, Darlene Sibley, Preston Sibley, Dan Sifton, Stephanie Sifton, Dorian Sifton, Kyle Harron, Brent Shier
U12 Century 21 Border Real Estate Chargers:
Coaches & Managers: Matt Schell, Chelsea Klempner, Ryan Eggen, Austin Haukeness, James Lewis, Holly Boreski Border Realty/Century 21: U12/Peewee Chargers sponsor since 2008
Thanks to those who helped out this past season:
Murray GM (who donated paint sprayer), Pongo Rentals, McComb Auto Supply, Southern Plains Cooperative, Coca-Cola, Days Inn, The Beef, Tower Cafe/1211 Social House/The Taphouse, Crown Advertising, J.L.s Bike & Skate, Crown Advertising, Dynamic Signs, EStevan Mercury, Golden West Radio, Bob Currie/TS&M Woodlawn Golf Club, GFL Environmental, Turnbull Excavating, Turnbull Redi-Mix, Henders Drugs, Midwest Surveys, Sigfredo Gonzales, Nathan Haukeness, Lonnie Rooks, Bryan Illerbrun Family, David Rosenbaum Photography, Estevan Bowl, Pukas Welding, Average Joe’s Oilfield Services, High Energy/Driver’s Choice Rentals, Apex Distribution, McGillicky Oilfield Construction, Trimount Developments, Hidden Valley Golf & RV Resort, L&C Trucking, Dart Services, S.E. Physiotherapy, Driven Distribution, Canuckcade, Steam-tst Industries as well as the businesses who donated items for silent auction this past year.
U14 Estevan Lions Club Oilers:
Coaches & Managers: Paul Duncan, Christian Pfeifer, Mark Tribiger, Jeremy Ciepliski, Michael & Jennifer Mainprize, Chelsey Driedger Estevan Lions Club: U14/Bantam Oilers sponsor since 2012; sponsored bantam Steelers or atom Pumas since 2008
A HUGE thank you to Larry Preddy, Maureen Doaust & the staff at Woodlawn Regional Park for their unrelenting efforts making sure we had adequate facilities in 2020 as well as the past 12 seasons. The 2020 Penta Completions Estevan Minor Football board would like to thank everyone who helped us this past season by volunteering when needed as it made our season the success it was. Parents & players thank you for your understanding when our schedules were changed or cancelled on short notice. As well thanks for obeying any new rules we had to implement, we shared your frustrations but in the big scheme of things, we were able to get our season played.
U18 Estevan Kinette Club Viragos:
A big thank you to Bryan Boys, president of Moose Jaw Minor Football & Jason Boyda from Yorkton Minor Football, for making our season possible by lobbying to the Sask Health Authority.
Kelly Lafrentz Trucking Ltd (Bantam Steelers 2008-2011) Kevin Keban (Peewee Oilers 2008-2010) Sherritt Coal/Westmoreland Coal (Atom Miners 2008-2016)
Coaches & Managers: Shanelle Rioux, Mark Tribiger, Chris Bayerle, Brennen Stubel, Kade Bachorcik, Rylan Trobert, Nigel Mack, Megan & Dustin Tangjerd, Suzie Stubel Estevan Kinette Club: U18 Viragos sponsor since 2020 Thank you as well to all the spouses & families for letting us have their family member help our football family!
Thanks to our former team sponsors
Have a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year & all the best in 2021!
Kevin Mortenson, President; Chelsea Klempner & Dena Bachorcik, Co-treasures; Kathy Thompson, Secretary; Pat Ford, Equipment Manager; Tia Thacker & Amy Lesy, Co-Fundraising; Lorna Roy & Luba Feoktistova, Co-Concession, Jennifer Froese, Member at Large
www.estevanmercury.ca
December 23, 2020 B7
Vermilion Energy supports an important school program An energy company recently showed its support for nutrition at an Estevan school. The breakfast program at Hillcrest School is continuing to provide a good nutritious start to the day despite the obstacles a pandemic presents. Vermillion Energy recently donated $2,000 to the program to help with increased costs because of guideline changes made to support a safe delivery method for the breakfast. Vermillion has been active with the program in the past by providing volunteers and funding to ensure children and youth have access to healthy, nutritious food, helping to fuel minds and bodies.
Long-time pastor encourages others to reach out This can be a difficult time of year for some, and those feelings of loneliness and depression can grow during a pandemic. Tim Pippus, who has been the pastor at the Estevan Church of Christ for more than 30 years, said counselling people has occupied a lot of his time recently. Just before he did the interview with the Mercury last week, he was talking to someone dealing with new adjustments and loneliness. “ There’s all kinds of people who don’t know what the next few days will look
like, or what they’re facing. And it’s starting to get to people,” he said. D uring the first six months or so of the pandemic, the people he encountered were mostly doing pretty well. But now the restrictions are leaving them weary. “Winter is always a little bit that way. We do less and we’re inside more, so I think people slow down,” said Pippus. “Winter is always hard for some people. And then again, Christmas is always hard for some people, and now everybody is isolated and we can’t see each other.”
DON’T DRIVE IMPAIRED Be safe this holiday season.
He might get a handful of calls around Christmas time each year, but those numbers have surged in 2020. “I would say that’s 10 times higher than normal right now, and I’ve had just random people call me out of the blue, because they read my newspaper article and need someone to talk to. People I don’t even know will call and chat these days,” he said. It’s a trend that other pastors in town have experienced. Outside of providing online services, the largest
share of what they’re doing right now has been supporting, praying for and checking in on people. When he’s been meeting with people, he’s been encouraging them keep reaching out to others for help. “There’s always someone to reach out to,” said Pippus. “I’ve been trying to highlight positive things. It’s so easy for us to focus on just what’s negative, so I’ve made it my goal to highlight positive things in almost everything I talk about.” A daily video series he sends out to church members
includes positive thoughts and blessings. Pippus said he wants to continue to give people hope, and he wants them to remember they have come through this so far. Sometimes, it’s best just to listen. At Christmas time, it’s easier to share that message of hope. And there’s the excitement associated with a new year. “Hopefully that does help boost people’s morale, and thtey start thinking and dreaming about things. New years are always a good time, and Christmas is about hope,
obviously, so we talk about that as well.” Pippus said he has not had anyone respond poorly. Sometimes he needs someone to reframe things during a difficult time to help him feel better about a situation. “Sometimes all we need is someone just to give us a different perspective, or remind us of something good. Everyone I’ve talked to has seemingly gone away feeling better, and the fact that they keep coming backing and wanting to chat some more would indicate they have found something positive.”
On behalf of the Board of Governors, Management, Staff and Students of Southeast College, we would like to wish you a very
Merry Christmas and a safe and
Happy New Year!
Thank you for your loyal support and trust. We wish you a safe holiday and we look forward to seeing you in 2021.
All Southeast College campus locations are closed starting Dec. 24 and re-open Jan. 4
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May the season’s message of peace on earth and goodwill toward all mankind, reach every corner of the world. Thank you for your generous support and friendship. We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
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B8 December 23, 2020
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Arrests at southeast crossings among CBSA highlights The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Prairie Region has released operational and enforcement highlights for 2020 that demonstrate how CBSA employees throughout the region have worked to safeguard communities while supporting the economy during these unprecedented times. The 2020 operational and enforcement highlights cover Jan. 1 to Oct. 30. The CBSA established a regional firearms working group to concentrate its efforts on keeping illegal guns off Prairie streets. Undeclared firearms and weapons are high-risk commodities and their interdiction is a CBSA enforcement priority. At the North Portal port of entry, Detector Dog Chase assisted officers in intercepting 11 handguns, one restricted rifle, three
silencers and five prohibited magazines on Feb. 22.Two travellers face charges in connection with this incident. Over the summer, officers seized another 18 firearms. At the Oungre port of entry, officers arrested a traveller after discovering child pornography on his electronic devices on Jan. 31. The individual was turned over to the Weyburn Royal Canadian Mounted Police and charged by the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation Unit. Among the other highlights came after Edmonton was named as a hub city for Western Conference teams for the NHL’s return-to-play in July. The CBSA participated in a multi-agency plan for clearing the flights. NHL players and personnel began arriving to Edmonton in July and the CBSA’s team in Edmonton worked
diligently to ensure a seamless border clearance process was provided for all involved. “2020 has been a year of change, but what has not changed is the Canada Border Services Agency’s commitment to Canada’s safety and prosperity. Prairie Region employees remain diligent in their efforts to intercept high-risk commodities, screen individuals seeking entry, and facilitate the flow of essential goods during the pandemic,” said Brad Wozny, regional director general for the Prairie Region of the Canada Border Services Agency. While traveller volumes were low due to international travel restrictions, CBSA officers in the Prairie region still processed 440,098 commercial trucks, 414,000 air shipments and
5,879,726 courier shipments from January to October. Over the same time period, CBSA officers in the Prairie Region processed 2,076,116 travellers. CBSA officers in the Prairie Region issued approximately $395,925 in administrative monetary penalties to commercial importers who violated trade and border legislation. The agency is working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 into Canada at all international ports of entry. PHAC is responsible for advising the CBSA of any required enhanced measures to be implemented at the Canadian border to help prevent the spread of serious infectious diseases into Canada.
Don’t drink and drive Don’t text and drive Don’t do drugs and drive
E V I R AR VE ALI
The effects of blood alcohol concentration
Drinking and driving puts everyone on the road in jeopardy. That includes the irresponsible men and women who consume alco-
hol and then get behind the wheel as well as millions of sober motorists and their passengers. The legal blood alco-
hol concentration, or BAC, in many areas throughout Canada is .08. But alcohol affects people’s ability to drive regardless of how much
they’ve had to drink. The following are some predictable effects on drivers and their ability to drive at certain BAC levels. • .02: People with a BAC of .02 typically experience some loss of judgment and feelings of relaxation. Slight body warmth and altered mood are some other normal effects when a person’s BAC is .02. Drivers can expect to experience a decline in visual functions and a diminished ability to perform two tasks at once when driving with a .02 BAC. • .05: Exaggerated behavior, possible loss of small-muscle control, such as an ability to focus the eyes, impaired judgment, lowered alertness, and release of inhibition are some typical effects of a .05 BAC. When behind the wheel with a .05 BAC, drivers can expect reduced coordination, re-
duced ability to track moving objects, difficulty steering, and a reduced response to emergency driving situations. • .08: At .08, muscle coordination becomes poor, affecting balance, speech, vision, reaction time, and hearing. People with a BAC of .08 will find it hard to detect danger and their judgment, self-control, reasoning, and memory will be impaired. Driving with a .08 BAC affects concentration, impairs perception and reduces drivers’ ability to capably processs information, including detecting other drivers’ signals. Short-term memory loss also is one of the predictable effects of driving with a .08 BAC. • .10: People experience a clear deterioration of their reaction time and control when their BAC reaches .10. Slurred speech, slowed thinking and poor coordina-
tion are some additional effects of a BAC of .10. When driving with a BAC of .10, drivers have a reduced ability to maintain lane position and brake appropriately. • .15: A .15 BAC is nearly twice the legal limit in many areas. People with such a high BAC will have considerably less muscle control than normal and a major loss of balance. Drivers with a .15 BAC experience substantial impairment when trying to control their vehicles and will experience difficulty paying attention to the task of driving. Drivers also will struggle to process necessary visual and auditory information. Alcohol begins to impair people’s motor skills and judgment even when consumed in small amounts. When drinking, men and women should never get behind the wheel.
Help your child make the right choices this holiday season The holiday season is a time of celebration for everyone. It’s tragic, however, when this celebration goes too far. When alcohol and drugs are involved, partying can turn to disaster with little warning. Protecting your children from the dangers of drinking or doing drugs before driving a car is an essential part of a parent’s job. Although you try to control your child’s environment, the truth is that alcohol and drugs are sometimes illegally accessible to children in schools.
Since you can’t control what other people’s children do, understand that peer pressure to abuse drugs will likely be a part of your child’s life. Here are a few tips for helping your child to make responsible choices during the holiday season: • Arrange all transportation beforehand so your child doesn’t have to make a decision about getting into a car. • Know which parties your child will be attending and who is responsible (hopefully a parent) for keeping them safe.
• Be open with your child about the dangers of drugs and alcohol and let him or her know you’ll be there to help without any judgment, if necessary. Remember: impaired driving isn’t just about alcohol. Illegal drugs, prescription medications and even fatigue can seriously affect people’s ability to safely get behind the wheel. Make sure your child is aware of the potential consequences, and he or she will be all set to have a safe, fun and memorable time this holiday season.
Offering occupational health & safety services to SE SK.
Lori Carr, MLA
Drug & Alcohol Testing • Certified Specimen Collector/DNA Collection • Dot Compliance Services • Fitness To Work Testing & RN Medicals • PFT/Spirometry • Respiratory (Maskfit) Testing • Audiometric & Hearing Conservation
Estevan Constituency Office
306.634.7311 loricarrmla@sasktel.net
306-634-9079 • 1101 5th Street • www.seoptions.ca
The Estevan Police Service is wishing you a SAFE and
son
y Sea Happy Holida
306.634.5555 | WWW.SKYLIFTSERVICES.COM PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE
DR. ROBERT KITCHEN MP 1-866-249-4697
www.drrobertkitchen.ca Member of Parliament | Souris-Moose Mountain
H
O
M
E
S
SHELTER #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK
306-634-7255
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December 23, 2020 B9
Council awards consulting contract for water tower repairs Estevan city council has awarded a tender that affects one of the landmark buildings in the community. The KGS Group was awarded a $74,964 tender for consulting services to oversee a refurbishment of the Estevan water tower during council’s meeting on Dec. 14. In a report to council, Shane Bucsis, the manager of water and wastewater services, said the water tower, which was built in the mid to late 1950s, is in need of repair. During that time, it has served as the main water storage, but as the city has grown, other reservoirs have been brought online to be used. The tower is beginning to show heavy fatigue, and rehabilitation is required, Bucsis said. “The water tower is the best back-
up storage system the city can have,” said Bucsis. “In the event of a power outage the water is already in the tower and it can provide water pressure to the city, eliminating the city from issuing a boil water advisory.” A consultant was hired to do an assessment on the water tower. Among the major findings of the report is the water tower is still structurally sound and most of the metal is in good condition. There are some spots on the bottom bowl where the metal needs to be thickened; the piping for the tower is in poor condition and needs to be replaced; hatches are not the proper size; the outside needs to be repainted and bird deterrents need to be installed; the inside needs to be recoated and cathodic protection needs to be added
to reduce long-term ware on the metal; and walkways need to be replaced. With the specialized work that needs to be done, a consultant needs to be hired to oversee the work, prepare tender package and do site visits to ensure the work is meeting regulations. The tender is broken down into to two parts. The first is by pricing. The second is by a point system that Bucsis and city engineer Kiflom Weldeab completed. They are based on specialist availability, experience with this type of proposal, timelines and price. WSP also submitted a bid for the project, and it was lower at $38,000, compared to $74,964 for KGS, but KGS scored better. Weldeab had it at 81-62 and Bucsis scored it at 86-63 for KGS.
WSP has never done a rehabilitation of a water tower before, Bucsis said, while KGS completed work on North Battleford’s tower, which Bucsis said is similar to Estevan. Council has been talking about the rehabilitation of the water tower since 2017. The city has a separate bank account, outside of the general fund, that has money from the federal gas tax, and it can only be spent on approved projects.The water tower would be among the projects. “It’s something that we really are looking forward to, because once we get it refurbished, with the cathodic protection, we feel … it should be good for many, many years,” said Ludwig. Now that the water intake project, which shifted the city’s primary water source from Boundary Dam to Raf-
Hope in the middle of darkness for us all
Imagine being a shepherd watching sheep at night. Now imagine watching sheep for years and years of nights. That does not sound very interesting or overly exciting. Yet, one night, was unlike
any other. “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were terrified” (Luke 2:8-9). Of course they were terrified. However, that fear did not last for long because the angel said, “I bring you good news of great joy… a saviour has been
Merry Christmas from
KFC!
Let KFC deliver supper tonight!
born to you; he is Christ the Lord!” (verses 10-11). Then that strange night became even more strange when a crowd of heavenly beings appeared saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests” (verse 14). You know what happens next: The shepherds decide to go and see the baby and after they do, they “Spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child” (verse 17). Here is part of the story that you might not remember: Scripture notes that, after this, “The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God” (verse 20). Returned to what? To watching their sheep at night. They went back to their
ferty Dam, is complete, the city can focus on smaller projects such as the water tower rehabilitation. Ludwig is confident the work can happen next year. “It’s hard to predict in a year of COVID. We’re hoping that things will get better in 2021. We’re hoping that we will turn the corner, and we’re hoping that a lot of these projects, especially the smaller ones, will come to fruition and be finished.” The quotation marks around Estevan should remain on the water tower once the renovations are finished, the mayor said. Bucsis said he was concerned about the stand pipes holding up the water tower, but those are in excellent condition. He is confident it should be standing for another 30-60 years.
Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ was born at night. You may also recall that on the resurrection morning, it was still dark when the women got to the empty tomb. Jesus rose in the night. This has been a tough year. In big and small ways, it has been filled with frustration, worry, and sadness, but God has not forgotten us. He has not fallen asleep. We are not without hope and light and joy. It may seem dark right now, but, thankfully, God still works at night.
fields and back to the darkness, but I imagine that they never saw the darkness in the same way again. How could they? From that day forward, every starry night had to remind them of the time that God broke into their boring, dark lives with news of joy, hope, and light. I like that the shepherds heard the message in the night. Remember too that Jesus was born before the angel appeared. In other words, Jesus
Merry Christmas AND
SEASONS GREETINGS!
www.kfc.ca or call 306.634.47547
The Estevan Mercury presents
our abies B 0 2 0 “2 ” r a e Y e h t f o n o i t c e s
This is your chance to put your baby announcement in the local newspaper for free! Please email your high resolution photo along with this information. Baby Name: ____________________ Birth Date: _____________________ Parents: _______________________ Son or Daughter: ________________ Email to dtarnes@estevanmercury.ca or drop off at 68 Souris Avenue.
Deadline: January 8, 2021
From all of us at Stream-Flo, wishing you and your families a safe and healthy holiday season. Stream-Flo Industries Ltd. 201 3rd Street Estevan, SK S4A 0N6 306.634.4719 www.streamflo.com
20123AA4 20123AA5
Classifieds
Wednesday, December 23, 2020
B10
Announcements
BELIEVE IT? Don’t fall victim to sharing fake news about COVID-19 online. Learn the four simple steps that will help you SPOT fake news online. Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca
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HealtH ServiceS
Paul Grade 6
Farm ServiceS
Feed & Seed
HIP/KNEE Replacement?
In our Christmas Greetings special that was part of the Dec. 16 Mercury, we inadvertently ran the wrong photo ran with the memory of a student named Paul. We apologize to Paul and his family for any inconvenience this may have caused. Here is his memory.
Career OppOrtunities
Career OppOrtunities
Heavy Duty Mechanics required:
Labourers Wanted:
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
Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $50,000 Lump sum refund. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide! Providing assistance during Covid.
Seeking professional drivers with Class 1 – 5 license to transport RV’s throughout North America. We have company driver spots available in Double Haul, Triple Haul and Semi fleets and O/O spots available in Single (1 ton) and Double Haul fleets. For more information on each fleet, please visit roadexservices.com. Subsidized health and dental insurance, monthly bonus available for company drivers. Must have valid passport and be able to cross the border. To apply please email resume and a current driver’s abstract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.
Expert Help:
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December 25, 2019. I woke up very excited Christmas morning and I ran to the living room and I saw a lot of presents. I opened the biggest present I saw, and it was a Nerf gun. I was very happy because I did not have a Nerf gun. I then realized it lights up. It was the best present I ever got. I also got some fidget toys, clothes, and more. I didn’t get to celebrate Christmas with my whole family, but we got to talk on Messenger for a long time, while playing Scrabble with my mom and her friend. I had fun all day playing with my new toys and spending time with my mom on Christmas, which is why this is my favorite Christmas memory.
CommerCial
Cleaning opportunity
now available in your area!
Please visit: www.moderncanada.ca or call
1-866-266-6441 today for more
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business Partner.
is currently accepting applications for
PRODUCTION WORKERS • Required Immediately
Must have a clean driver’s abstract. Position located in Arborfield, Sk. Camp accommodation provided if necessary.
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
CERTIFIED SEED Wheat
INTERESTED IN STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS?
SRI HOMES’ Estevan Facility SHELTER HOME SYSTEMS
Duties inc, in part: pressure washing heavy equipment, trucks and trailers. Cleaning shops. Assisting where required. Heavy lifting involved. Mechanical aptitude an asset; must be safety conscious and able to work around heavy equipment.
PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.
Business OppOrtunities
Career OppOrtunities
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Duties include:
• Assembling and installing modular components Send, fax, e-mail or drop off resume to:
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Box 845 #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK S4A 2A7 Fax: 306-634-7597 jobs.shelter@gmail.com www.shelterhomes.ca
S
SHELTER
SESAA Executive Director
The Southeast Saskatchewan Airshed Association Inc. (SESAA) is seeking applications for the position of Executive Director. For a description of the duties involved please see below: The Executive Director will be Responsible to the SESAA Board of Directors: • Carry out all policies and directions of the Board. • Execute the business affairs of the non profit association. • Oversee the financial affairs of the association. Collect fees, invoicing, banking, and financial statements, direct financial audits. • Contract and manage technical contractors. Develop contracts, execute and direct contractors. Ensure operations government compliance of equipment, maintenance, inventory and spare part control. Equipment selection and operations implementation. Implement equipment replacement program. Reporting of exceedances. Reporting network compliance. Equipment inventories. Preventative maintenance. Station documentation. Station development, site selection and land acquisition • Assist the Board in the management of the air monitoring network. Data management, QA/QC of data. Data interpretation. Data reporting, monthly and annually. • Communications. Reports, presentations, phone inquiries, website management. Stakeholder relations, informing stakeholders, encouraging participation. Office Management. • Minute preparation, agendas, meeting preparations, manages office systems...computers, fax, copiers, modems, and internet
Interested applicants should submit their interest in writing to: Mr. Terry Gibson, SESAA Executive Director at tg4air@sasktel.net
BUSINESS SERVICES LEGAL
AUDIOLOGIST
COMMERCIAL PRINTING
We are your Barristers & Solicitors
Paul Elash Q.C. Aaron Ludwig, B.Sc., LL.B. Genevieve Schrader, B. Mgt., J.D. Gainsborough: Thursday a.m. Carnduff: Thursday p.m. 1312- 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A 0X2
P. 306-634-3631 • F. (306) 634-6901 • www.kohalyelash.com
“Your ears deserve an audiologist” #5 - 418 Kensington Ave. (Across from Walmart)
306-636-EARS (3277)
JACQUIE MVULA M.S., R. Aud. Audiologist/Owner
www.suncountryhearing.com
• • • • •
Brochures Business Cards Invoices Oilfield Ticket Books Envelopes
• • • • •
Flyers Posters Menus Programs Labels
• • • •
Raffle Tickets Booklets Cheques whatever you need printed!
If you need it printed on paper, we can do it!
306-634-2654
www.estevanmercury.ca
December 23, 2020 B11
Flashback Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1987 Members of the Canadian Tire team show off their new sweaters which they received from the Estevan store. The team was competing in the house league of the atom division. Team members are, from left, Todd Brandow, Darren Korf, Jeff Pryznyk and Miles Hoste. Middle row, Chad Jesse, Kelly Hodgens, Dominique Beaulleu, Rob Klassen, Steve Feser and Shawn Klassen. Back row, Tom Kase (Canadian Tire store owner/operator) and Ed Pryznyk (coach).
Holy Family to stay at Level 2 for now The schools in the Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division will remain at Level 2 for the time being, the board of trustees heard at their Dec. 9 board meeting. Under the province’s Safe Schools Plan, there are four phases for schools in the COVID-19 pandemic environment. Level 1 is full in-class learning with some additional measures to ensure student and staff safety; Level 2 is full in-class learning with mask usage for students and staff.
Level 3 is reduced inclass learning, where students go to class every other day, with half capacity in the building; and Level 4 is transition to alternative learning opportunities offered by the school division. “ When you listen to what’s happening, there is a bit of a trend to schools moving to higher levels. Prince Albert and Regina have gone to Level 4. At this point, it’s still being left to local school divisions to determine what level they want to go to,” said director of education Gwen Keith. She added there’s always a possibility that the chief medical health officer might
LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER R.M. OF ARGYLE NO. 001 SE 05-01-30-WlM SW 05-01-30-WIM NE 05-01-30-WlM NW 05-01-30-WIM SE 06-01-30-WlM SW 06-01-30-WlM NE 06-01-30-WlM NW 06-01-30-WlM NE 01-01-30-WIM SW 01-01-30-WIM Interested parties should submit tenders ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 6, 2021 addressed to: Kohaly, Elash & Ludwig Law Firm LLP 1312- 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A OX2 (306) 634-3631 Tenders may be submitted for one or all parcels. All tenders must be in writing, without conditions, and must be accompanied by a deposit of $2,000.00 per quarter (1/4) section payable by certified cheque to: Kohaly, Elash & Ludwig Law Firm LLP in trust. Deposits for all rejected offers will be returned forthwith after January 6, 2021. Land transaction to close between February 1, 2021 and March 31, 2021. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
Our best wishes to you and your family.
Happy holidays!
step in and mandate that school divisions are to go to a higher level. There was one instance of a student at St. Augustine School having to self-isolate, but Keith pointed out there haven’t been any cases of COVID transmissions in any Holy Family schools. In spite of this, there are some parents who are anxious about the whole situation. “Our plan is to work with the principals. They have plans if we have to move to Level 3 or 4,” she added. One issue that hasn’t come up so far is the number of sick days taken by staff. They had expected to see more sick days, but so far that hasn’t been happening. Chief finance officer Lisa Wonsiak noted that the costs for substitute teachers have been lower, and this is
happening in other school divisions as well. “The level of time off and sick time is down, which is unusual. We had expected it to be higher,” said Wonsiak. One issue that has come up is that people who get COVID tests can often wait five to 10 days for results, and sometimes people are only advised of positive tests results, not of the negative test results. “There’s a five to 10-day delay in getting results. That’s a significant amount of time,” said Wonsiak. Keith noted that if people register with E-Health, they can get their results much faster. “That’s one way to help the health system,” she said. Wonsiak agreed, pointing out it’s not just for CO-
CROSSWORD ANSWER
By Greg Nikkel of the Weyburn Review
FARMLAND FOR SALE Offers will be accepted for the purchase of the following farmland: South East 16-3-9 W2M, Extension 8 (149.31 acres). The land does not include the acreage on this quarter section. Oilfield surface lease on the land which pays $3,800.00 annual rent. Offers for the land can be with or without this lease. The highest or any offer will not necessarily be accepted.
VID tests, but for any other medical test results that a patient might be waiting for word on. Wonsiak also updated the board on the COVID funding request that Holy Family has made to the Ministry of Education, pointing out this is “a large ask,” but this next round of funding will provide a large amount of funds needed for everything from staffing needs to cleaning and sanitizing supplies and PPE. Holy Family got their application in by Dec. 1, and the hope is that the funding will be known before Christmas, so that any new staffing can be in place when school is back after the Christmas-New Year’s holidays in January. Holy Family has requested about $2 million
in funding to cover off everything they need to deal with COVID and COVID-related expenses, said Wonsiak. “The focus for the ministry is making sure the request matches the size of the schools. We’ll see how we fare,” she added, noting they received $51,000 in the first round of funding for COVID expenses. Asked if it will be difficult to find personnel for January, she answered, “That’s going to be a challenge.” They might have to try and get students coming off internships, or pull people from other assignments, she said. “It’s not going to be that easy. We’re going to be competing with South East Cornerstone, so it’s going to be a challenge for sure. For support staff, I feel more positive.”
LOCAL 25 – ESTEVAN & AREA
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Sunday, January 3, 2021 ~ 1:00 p.m.
* Via TELECONFERENCE * Call Linda at (306) 421-1199 for details
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday, January 5, 2021 @ 7pm Taylorton Room, Days Inn Estevan
Offers should be sent to Billesberger Law Firm, 1017 — 3rd Street, Estevan, Saskatchewan, S4A 0R4 together with a cheque payable to the law firm for 5% of the tender price.
Due to existing restrictions on the size of public gatherings, we ask that you RSVP by January 4 to enable us to make appropriate arrangements.
Tenders are to be submitted by January 8, 2020.
RSVP info: 306.421.3377 or emfmort@gmail.com
May the season’s festivities bring you joy and happiness.
Prairie Mud Service 306-634-6060
Head Office: Estevan, SK
306-634-3411
“Fluid Solutions thru Experience and Technology”
B12 December 23, 2020
www.estevanmercury.ca
Estevan City council to have more meetings in 2021 Estevan city council will have more open meetings in 2021. Council was presented with the proposed meeting schedule at Monday night’s session. The schedule calls for a proposed budget meeting on Jan. 11, and the first regular meeting would be Jan. 25. There would be one meeting in February, March, April, July, September, October and December, and two meetings in May, June and August. A 2022 budget meeting is scheduled for November. Councillor Shelly Veroba called for additional meetings, saying that cities like Weyburn and Yorkton meet more than Estevan. She would like to see second meetings in March, April, September, October and December. “With four people being new on council, I find that with the one meeting
a month, you almost feel out of the loop, per se,” said Veroba. Councillor Kirsten Walliser, one of the new members on council, said she has a lot of questions, and if there are more meetings, it gives the potential for more engagement with information they have. “It also puts us back in front of the community every two weeks, increasing the ability for the community to keep up with the information being presented,” said Walliser. Mayor Roy Ludwig said he’s not sure how much information they would have for the meetings, but they can always cancel a meeting if there isn’t enough on the agenda. Council met once a month from Januar y to September in 2020, with a couple of special meetings to discuss topics that came
What a year! Thank you for trusting us with your pet’s health.
Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.
up. They did not meet in October due to the civic election, but they have met three times since. The revamped schedule will be released at a later date. • • • The city will continue to have memberships with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and the Southeast Transportation Planning Committee. The FCM membership is $2,923.67, based on a per capita rate and a base fee for population. FCM lobbies the federal government on numerous issues throughout the year. The transportation committee has members from different urban and rural municipalities in the region, and addresses highway and transportation needs in the region. The city’s fee is $660. • • •
A 10 per cent penalty for all taxes that are unpaid after Dec. 31 will not be collected this year. The city has a variety of incentives for those who pay early, and penalties for those who pay late. Taxes unpaid on Dec. 1 have a penalty of 3 1/2 per cent, and the penalty would traditionally grow to 10 per cent at the end of the year. In a report to council, tax assessor Trina Sieben said with the ongoing pandemic, the city’s administration continues to receive inquiries about assistance. Council had previously waived penalties for unpaid taxes in August and September. City manager Jeff Ward said the 10 per cent penalty is the one that people are concerned about, and there wouldn’t be an additional penalty for unpaid taxes until August 2021.
Give Carats This
Christmas
• • • The water treatment plant chemical tenders for 2021 were awarded. The liquid chlorine tender went to ClearTech for $21,523.11, potassium permanganate also went to Clear Tech for $20,664, ammonium sulfate went to Klearwater for $14,752.50, and hydrofluosillic acid went to K lear water f or $10,046.73. Now that Rafferty Dam is the primary water source, the city will no longer need caustic soda. This was used as for pH adjustment and the Rafferty water is higher in pH. Also, aluminum sulphate was not tendered, but the city will still need to use some form of this type of chemical inside the plant. • • • Five building permits worth $181,900 were issued in November, bringing
the total for the year to 52 permits worth $3.9 million. The value for the building permits is more than double the $1.93 million seen in the first 11 months of 2019. November generated on e c om m e rc i a l p e r m i t worth $80,000, one industrial permit for $44,000 and three miscellaneous permits for $57,000. • • • C o u n c i l l o r L i n d s ay Clark wanted to know the procedure for when people bring forward concerns to city hall, and if there was a spreadsheet on whether their concerns have been addressed. Someone had approached him previously about a concern that wasn’t addressed. Ludwig noted that if someone has concerns, usually they contact him or Ward. Ludwig also suggested there could be a complaints area on the city website.
Thank you for your continued support & business this past year. Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.
Box 1518, 101 6th Street Estevan, SK S4A 2L7
Tel: (306) 634-8655 Fax: (306) 634-8028
Merry Christmas!
108 Breeze Street, Estevan 306-634-7123 www.prairieanimalhealthcentre.com
Crescent Point is proud to be part of your community.
1226 - 4th Street, Estevan, SK 306.634.2215 • www.aajewellery.ca
crescentpointenergy.com
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family. www.girardbulk.ca • (306)
We wish you a joyous and festive holiday season.
637-4370
Tomorrow is a gift, and we want you to be ready for it.
December 26 9am to 5pm Dean & Daughters’ Repair Shop Watch social media for a exciting sale announcement
hubinternational.com Risk & Insurance | Employee Benefits | Retirement & Private Wealth
BOXING DAY SAVE UP TO BLOWOUT In the Shop and 50% online at jennyjoans.com OFF!
116 Hwy 47 S, Estevan SK, (306) 634-6114
Merry Christmas ffrom fr rooom m
no returns Dec 26, 2020 Let us echo the message of the season by expressing our sincere thanks to you, our loyal patrons. Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
BILLESBERGER LAW FIRM BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS
1225 4TH ST., ESTEVAN 306-634-1033 • infojenny@sasktel.net
www.jennyjoans.com
see social media for Covid restrictions policies
Banners Ban BBa annnners rs & Fl Fla Flags aaggs • D Dig Di Digital ggiitaaall PPr Printing ririnntittin inngg & D Decals ecal als als Dimensional & Flat Signs • Vehicle Wraps • Paint Protection
www.bkcreations.ca
Haveananevent eventcoming comingup? up? Have Have an event coming up? Have an event coming up?
JOHN J. BILLESBERGER B.A., LL.B. MERRILEE SWANSON, B.A., J.D. 1017 - 3rd Street, Estevan
(306) 637-3710
Email David at EmailDavid Davidatat editor@estevanmercury.ca Email
editor@estevanmercury.ca editor@estevanmercury.ca Email David at editor@estevanmercury.ca
Blue Chip Realty
HOME for the
HOLIDAYS Acreage, Hwy 47, Estevan
215 Sunset Bay, Boundary Dam
MLS® SK836323
MLS® SK810225 $
MLS® SK826200 $
Zajac Acreage, Estevan Rm No. 5
2212 Macready Bay, Estevan
MLS® SK826546 $
MLS® SK827819 $
2030 Nicholson Road, Estevan
106 Lindsay Street, Hitchcock
1421 2nd Street, Estevan
3,450,000
$
880,000
900,000
985,000
520,000
MLS® SK828045 $
Roughbark Ranch, Lomond, SK
MSL® SK834281 $
375,000
Prette Acreage (RM of Estevan 9.69 acres)
MLS® SK825842 $
MLS® SK826693 $
104 2201 Newcombe Drive, Estevan
618 Eva Street, Estevan
MLS® SK821986 $
MLS® SK815511 $
342 Torbay Street, Torquay
1027 Hillcrest Drive, Estevan
1713 3rd Street, Estevan
1805 Dieppe Crescent, Estevan
MLS® SK810226 $
MLS® SK824301 $
MLS® SK798394 $
369,900
319,900
250,000
224,900
235,000
219,000
309,000
MLS® SK836060 $
228,000
209,900
11 1437 1st Street, Estevan
306 1637 1st Street, Estevan
MLS® SK828465 $
MLS® SK828379 $
199,000
199,900
Blue Chip Realty
Linda Mack Rhonda Blanchette Michael Burns 306-421-3883 306-461-9791 306-421-0774 #5 421A Kensington Ave. 306-634-2628 www.remax-bluechip-estevan-sk.ca *Each office independently owned and operated
413 1st Street, Estevan
265 Hanson Avenue, Macoun
517 King Street, Estevan
MLS® SK831183 $
MLS® SK830752 $
MLS® SK831270 $
Steelman Acreage, RM of Browning MLS® SK806751 $
306 Torbay Street, Torquay
1329 8th Street, Estevan
MLS® SK797046 $
MLS® SK833359 $
108 McDonald Road, Estevan
822 Isabelle Street, Estevan
404 304 Petterson Drive, Estevan
MLS® SK814546 $
MLS® SK834131 $
MLS® SK819710 $
1508 Thorn Crescent, Estevan
529 Montgomery Street, Midale
406 Railway Avenue, Lampman
MLS® SK821018 $
MLS® SK821028 $
MLS® SK813961 $
226 Westman Street, Midale
315 Heward Street, Stoughton
818 1st Street, Estevan
MLS® SK801217 $
MLS® SK814653 $
MLS® SK797006 $
199,000
195,000
179,000
175,000
169,900
104,000
157,500
149,000
139,900
MLS® SK834176 $
174,900
169,900
154,900
110 Markhov Place, Stoughton
189,900
145,000
130,000
214 Mainprize Street, Midale MLS® SK818620 $
89,900
115,000
3 Souris Avenue, Frobisher MLS® SK831756 $
69,000
231 Eisenhower Street, Midale MLS® SK818484 $
60,000
BUILD THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS! Vacant Land
Estevan Residential Development Property
105 Keating Court, Hitchcock MLS SK805500
MLS SK795509
$44,900
$365,000 Lily Bay Acreage MLS SK805293
$199,000 F 4th Avenue, Estevan MLS SK795506
$68,500
107 Keating Court, Hitchcock MLS SK815506
$44,900 113 Meadowlark Drive, Hitchcock MLS SK815526
$44,900
D Shurygalo Road, Bienfait
109 Meadowlark Drive, Hitchcock MLS SK815518
MLS SK795510
$44,900
$67,500 111 Meadowlark Drive,
D Breen Avenue, Hitchcock MLS SK815398
Hitchcock
$44,900
$44,900 MLS SK815520
E Breen Avenue, Hitchcock MLS SK815393
103 Keating Court,
$39,900
Hitchcock
117 Meadowlark Drive, Hitchcock
$44,900
MLS SK815560
MLS SK815496
$44,900
Wishing Everyone a Safe & Merry Christmas.
If you are thinking about moving, Call US today! 306.634.2628