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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2021
The long, winding path
Food factory. Local business Polish Kitchen keeps on growing. PAGE A3
All about the kids. Progress continues on youth centre. PAGE A6
Cleaning Up. Farms took the brunt of powerful winter storm. PAGE A12
The pathway through the Pleasantdale valley is one of the many scenic areas in Estevan. There was a light dusting of snow on the pathway Saturday morning, and the number of footprints in the snow indicates it was well-used. Colder temperatures settled in, which discouraged some people from being outdoors, but the valley was still a beautiful place for those willing to brave the cold. Photo by David Willberg
Process for selling naming rights to Affinity Place and other amenities has begun By David Willberg
French Connection. French Immersion for Pleasantdale. PAGE 13
It might be hard to believe for some, but it’s been nearly 10 years since Affinity Place opened to the public, and naming rights for the building and its many amenities are set to expire at the end of August. The City of Estevan is therefore embarking on the process of selling the sponsorships to the facility and other sports and recreation sites. Estevan city council approved the naming rights plan, submitted by city clerk Judy Pilloud, at Monday night’s meeting. A brochure, prepared by destination marketing communications consultant Rebecca
Westling, will be distributed into the community. “We’re keeping it simple,” said Mayor Roy Ludwig, who chaired the new arena committee when Affinity Place was built. The big-ticket item is Affinity Place itself, which carries a price tag of $100,000 a year for five years. During the fundraising for Affinity, it was sold for $100,000 a year for 10 years. But there are other high-profile facilities available, including the Estevan Leisure Centre’s swimming pool, currently named the RM of Estevan Aquatic Centre, for $50,000 per year for five years; the south arena, known as the Power Dodge Ice Centre, for
$10,000 annually; and the Estevan Public Library for $30,000 each year. Corporate boxes inside Affinity Place, which were the hottest seller during the last naming rights campaign, will be $5,000 a year. The current naming rights holders, including Affinity Credit Union for the events centre, will be given the right of first refusal. “We’re getting a hold of all of those people now, and asking them,” said Ludwig. Among the attributes at Affinity Place that are for sale this time around are the different sides and corners of the centre ice score clock, the upstairs lounge, the two press boxes, the lobby,
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the Zamboni, the two players boxes and two penalty boxes, elevator, referees’ room, dressing rooms, the walking track and more. Each of the 24 sections inside the building are also available again. Not for sale this time around are the individual seats and standing room spots that were sold last time, or the sound baffles that hang from the Affinity Place ceiling. In the Estevan Leisure Centre, people can sponsor the squash courts, the Estevan Arts Council craft room, weight room and multi-purpose room, ranging from $1,000-$1,500 per year for five years. A2 » MOST
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Arbitration panel awards Estevan Police Association members a new three-year contract By David Willberg Members of the Estevan Police Association (EPA) have a new collective bargaining agreement, bringing an end to a negotiation that spanned nearly two years and required mediation and the ruling of a three-person arbitration board. The arbitration panel ruled in December that the EPA – the union that represents members of the Estevan Police Service – would receive a 5.4 per cent wage increase over three years through the deal, which is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2019. EPA members will receive a 1.5 per cent increase for 2019, 1.2 per cent increase for the first six months of 2020, another 1.2 per cent increase for the second half of 2020, and a 1.5 per cent increase for 2021. The previous agreement expired at the end of 2018 and this new pact ends
on Dec. 31, 2021. The police association was seeking 6.4 per cent over three years, with two per cent in 2019, 2.2 per cent in 2020 and 2.2 per cent in 2021, while the Estevan board of police commissioners countered with 3.5 per cent over three years: .5 per cent in 2019, and 1.5 per cent in each of 2020 and 2021. The association and the police board went to arbitration after they couldn’t come to terms on a new deal through negotiations and mediation. The arbitration board is made up of the arbitrator and a nominee from each party involved. They were unanimous for the three-year deal. “It was unfortunate that it went to arbitration, but both sides weren’t happy after negotiating several times,” said Mayor Roy Ludwig, who is the chair of the police board. “It was decided by the parties that we would go to arbitration, and of course, arbitration is never ideal.”
Sgt. Kevin Reed, who is the president of the EPA, said they were seeking increases similar to other municipal police associations in the province. “The Estevan Police Association went into the arbitration with a fair position when we take into consideration all the numbers previously settled by the other five police associations,” Reed said. One of the big issues for the police board, according to Ludwig, was that with the economic climate facing Estevan and ongoing issues, the board thought those should be factors in the new deal. Even though arbitration was needed, Ludwig and Reed did not characterize the negotiations as acrimonious. “The last few times we met, there was little movement,” said Ludwig. Reed said the Estevan Police Association was more than willing to come to an agreement that was fair and
took into consideration all the circumstances of the current state of affairs in the southeast. “Unfortunately early on in negotiations we were met with an unwillingness to bargain,” said Reed. “We were met with comments that suggested that it was better politically to have an arbitrator deliver an award than to bargain a settlement and have to explain why it was fair.” The last few years have been challenging for membership, Reed said. They have been working their way through this pandemic and current economic state, and the membership has had to defend their position a number of times before the courts and now an arbitrator. He pointed to the amount of time spent in court, arguing for Workers Compensation Board benefits for Const. Jay Pierson, who has been diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder and has been on leave since 2017.
He won his appeal to receive benefits last year. Ludwig, who has been part of negotiations for the city for decades, said this round wasn’t as tough as what was experienced around 2000, when city staff and police had protracted labour discussions with the city. In the latest negotiation, Ludwig said there was respect from both sides. Ludwig hopes the next CBA can be resolved in a quicker fashion. “We’re confident on our side moving forward that when we do sit down to negotiate that we can work things through,” he said. Reed says he is concerned with a potential negative response from the public to this contract. The EPA understands the economics of the community and the worries that people have about the future of Estevan. “We serve this community on a daily basis because
of that commitment to our community,” he said. “It is important to know that when an arbitrator is making a decision on what is fair for both parties involved they take into consideration a number of factors. “They factor in comparators with other employers in the same industry. They take into consideration ability to pay, which, of course, includes the current economics.” The sergeant noted the police board did a “very excellent” job in educating the arbitration board on the state of the economy now and projected in the future. Police Chief Paul Ladouceur said there is a 3.6 per cent increase to the Estevan Police Service’s budget, after several years without a budget increase, and it is due to the increase in wages for this new deal. The EPS had to find other saves in their operations to offset the difference caused by paying out the two years of retroactive increases.
Most naming rights will be for five-year term « A1 Also available for sale this time around are program opportunities, the skate park, tennis courts and parks and pathway benches. And the library’s naming rights will be for sale, too. That wasn’t an option a decade ago. During the meeting, council decided not to sell the title to pathways, parks and spray parks. Councillor Travis Frank asked about why they were included in the package
this time around, and wondering if they were for sale last time. “I know that we do have, in particular, one situation where we do have a company that’s doing some funding for a park, but I like to consider that … a bit more of a one-off,” said Frank. The city has been looking at dividing pathways into sections and naming them after people who have made
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big contributions to the community, since they have been running out of streets to name after significant people. It was also noted at Monday’s meeting that the city would not have a corporate box in the events centre this time, and that box would go to somebody on the wait list. Councillor Shelly Veroba pointed out that the city having a box had generated some negative comments over the years. One item that won’t be for sale this time is the Estevan Leisure Centre name. It was available for the previous sale, but had no takers. “We discussed that, and given the economic situation right now, we thought that would be the best moving forward.” The biggest difference between this campaign and the previous one is that naming rights this time around will be five years as opposed to 10 years. “Hopefully in five years the economy will have bounced back,” said Ludwig. It’s also why most of the
Affinity Place, the Estevan Public Library and other facilities will have their naming rights available. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia items that are for sale this time around have the same price as before. “We’re basically continuing the ask for the different parts of Affinity,” said Ludwig. Also, the length of the campaign will be different. The last one started in 2007 and wrapped up in 2011. This time it will be carried out in less than a year. “Now that we’ve already had people who have been
paying, we already have a substantial waiting list, for example, for the boxes, we feel we can get by with the shorter time frame.” The money raised through the naming rights sales will be directed towards upgrades and maintenance in these facilities. The money for a part of Affinity Place will be spent in that area. “These costs don’t go away. Keeping these facilities
up to date is a huge cost, and one that we have to continue to put into the buildings to keep them in good shape,” said Ludwig. Naming rights sales during the fundraising and construction for Affinity Place brought in $7 million. There wasn’t a goal included in Monday night’s council package, but this campaign has the ability to generate millions of dollars.
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By Ana Bykhovskaia Aleksandra Szlapacka opened the doors of the Polish Kitchen in Estevan, inviting the community to indulge in a variety of homemade pierogis and cabbage rolls in May 2019. Less than a year after that the world made a somersault and things in many areas have never been the same since then. Times weren't easy for the Polish Kitchen as well, but instead of surrendering to the economic realities, Szlapacka expanded her business in January to meet the new goals and needs of the business and Saskatchewan communities. Since its opening, the business was steadily growing, bringing a variety of Slavic meals to Estevan and the surrounding area. By the end of 2019, most of 2020's schedule was already booked for venue catering. But the pandemic put an end not only to that, but also to lunches Polish Kitchen was successfully serving on a daily basis to the Energy City. "Just cancel, cancel, cancel, cancel… What were we going to do? And I cancelled lunches too … We just operated as a
store. So automatically what we were from the beginning, it just died," recalled Szlapacka. "But we still had pierogis, we still had cabbage rolls, and we had to sell these somehow. So if it is not going to go in meals and catering, then I have to sell from the fridge as a product." Where others could have stood back, Szlapacka saw opportunities. It took dedication, creativity and guts, but being a person who refuses to give up she found another path. Already last summer Polish Kitchen started selling their product to the grocery store at Kenossee Lake, which proved to be pretty successful. A lot of people from Carlyle and Oxbow, who would spend time there, were excited about Szlapacka's home-style meals. Some time was invested into developing the packaging style and getting through all the obligatory procedures to become a supplier, but soon Polish Kitchen fridges filled with handmade pierogis, cabbage rolls and pielmieni (dumplings with meat) appeared in Southern Plains Coop stores in the southeast. Before the holiday season,
The Polish Kitchen factory is located on Sixth Street.
the delicious products made by the traditional Polish recipes Szlapacka inherited from her mother and grandmother were offered through various stores in Estevan, Oxbow, Carlyle, Weyburn and Regina. Everything was being produced out of a small Estevan store on Kensington, and once the Christmas season came closer, the need for expansion became obvious. "We were doing good until the last week before Christmas. And then I was, 'I'm done, I can't produce anymore.' We were sending out everything we were making at the store, nothing was left, no pierogis for sale, no nothing before Christmas. "And I realized it was impossible to supply more than just my store from that little Polish Kitchen owner Aleksandra Szlapacka recently opened a factory in Estevan space. Having three employees to meet the demand. File photo there was already crowded," recalled Szlapacka. of existing, as well as future Slavic traditional soups. ingredients and all according Nevertheless, the crew clients, while Kensington's spot Their retail prices remain to the time proved traditional pulled it together and made is now back to serving lunches relatively high, but Szlapacka recipes that until this time were enough product to fulfill all on daily basis and also operates said there is a reason for that and all in Szlapacka's head. With the their obligations so everyone as a store. she isn't planning on sacrificing expansion, she had to train her who was craving a baba-style Szlapacka is still organiz- anything to change it. employees so they would be able delicious meal for the holidays ing some things at the factory, "I went to the store one to maintain the quality all while could have one without extra and she hopes to soon expand day, and there are these piero- keeping up with orders. And efforts. However, a new place into more co-ops in the prov- gis and those pierogis, and she is confident it will remain was needed to keep going. ince. everything was so low-priced, as it is now. The decision to expand "I kind of commit with but nothing hand-pinched. "I don't want to change and open the factory was made co-ops and I want to stay with And ours are handmade, hand- any recipes, I don't want to in November 2020, and already them. They support locals," pinched, homey. cheap out and get cheaper in January the second Pol- Szlapacka said. "It is pricey because you products or cheaper ingredients. ish Kitchen sign appeared on She also has some arrange- hire people. It's not a machine It's always going to be the same Estevan's streets. What may ments with the food suppliers that's producing 15,000 an hour. way." have turned into a dead-end working with restaurants to It's people that are producing Running a restaurant for others, appeared to be just a introduce her product to an 1,000 or 1,500 a day. And if one day is still Szlapacka's turning curve for this business. even wider population. you want more, you have to big dream. So far Polish The new factory is located Polish Kitchen currently hire more." Kitchen offers high-quality on Sixth Street. Szlapacka now produces bison and traditional Not only are Polish Kitch- homemade traditional meals has seven employees across the cabbage rolls, as well as eight en pierogis folded and pinched conveniently offered at local two locations. The shop works kinds of pierogis, and soon nicely and with care, but they stores. What's next? Only the to supply products for the needs will introduce Polish and other are also filled with high-quality time will show.
Telemiracle is to kick off its 45th edition with new 50/50 raffle By Ana Bykhovskaia Despite all the challenges, the 45th edition of Telemiracle is a go and is just a month away. The 20-hour-long telethon, raising money for Kinsmen Foundation’s efforts to cover medicalrelated travel expenses of people in Saskatchewan, will be broadcasted and streamed live on Feb. 27-28. "TeleMiracle, together we are family" is this year's slogan that, like many other fundraisers, is taking a new shape. Brian Angstad, who is this year's Telemiracle chair, talked to the Mercury about what the province can expect from the upcoming show. "This year Telemiracle will look a little different compared to years past. Last spring the world changed so Telemiracle had to adapt to the change due to COVID. "With this year's (edition), we wanted to make sure that we still had a show to distribute to the
people of Saskatchewan, and we wanted to make sure that we had a safe show for the people involved." All the national cast entertainment and Saskatchewan talent will be pre-recorded and aired live. However, entertainers hosting the show, including Andrea Menard, Beverley Mahood, Brad Johner, Chris Henderson, Glen Suitor, Jeffery Straker, Jess Moskaluke, Jill Straker, Lisa Moen and Mac Shepherd, will be present at the location, which is Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. Telemiracle had to reduce their crew of volunteers down drastically to the minimal number to ensure the safety of the event. "We are working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to make sure that we have proper social distancing and all the proper procedures for the volunteers and for everybody that will be in attendance," Angstad said. While the Kinsmen Foundation's biggest fundraiser of the year adapted to a new format, not only
Unlike before, the entertainment for Telemiracle this year will be pre-recorded. File photo did they keep the core of it, but they also added a new raffle with a whooping guaranteed prize. "Telemiracle is very proud to announce our first-ever 50/50 raffle. You can purchase tickets on telemiracle5050.ca. The pot is starting at $25,000, so we are hoping
to grow a nice size jackpot for this raffle," Andstad said. The tickets are already available and sales end Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. Fifty per cent of sales, to a maximum prize of $3,750,000, will go to one lucky winner that will be announced during the countdown
show that will start on Feb. 27 at 6:15 p.m. The Countdown to the Telemiracle will be streamed at telemiracle.com. Telemiracle never sets a goal for the total, as they are grateful for anything they receive to be able to help the people of Saskatchewan. And every year the generosity of the province and its residents is fascinating. "We appreciate absolutely every dollar that is raised. It's amazing how the people of Saskatchewan rally to support Telemiracle," Angstad said. The organizing committee has been working on the event since March 2020 and will keep going all the way until the end of the show to ensure another great experience. People are invited to get comfortable at home, and either tune in to CTV on their TVs or stream live from telemiracle.com. "Join us as we ring those phones and watch as Saskatchewan, once again, makes miracles happen!" says the Telemiracle website.
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca
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Energy companies are on par with what? For the most part, elected officials do a good job, but sometimes you have to wonder what they are thinking. They have a tough job. They have to make some incredibly difficult decisions. Some of those decisions are emotional and go against what’s in their own best interests. And there are always the armchair council members in the community who will be slow to praise, but quick to criticize and even insult. Sometimes elected officials will make truly baffling, head-scratching decisions that will leave you questioning their common sense. Such was the case last week when the City of Regina’s executive committee, which is comprised of all members of city council, voted in favour of an amended motion that would prevent the city from soliciting or accepting sponsorship or advertising from companies or organizations whose business is principally derived from the sale or production of fossil fuels. The amended motion passed 7-4. It should be noted that new Regina Mayor Sandra Masters voted against the motion. Also among the four dissenters is former Estevan resident Terina Shaw, who is in her first term as the councillor for Ward 7, and likely knows a thing or two about the value of the energy sector, thanks to her time down here. In essence, the amendment, put forward by Ward 6 Councillor Dan LeBlanc, would put these energy companies in the same boat as pornography businesses and tobacco companies, among others. The oil and gas sector, of course, is the No. 2
industry in the province, and of far greater use to Saskatchewan than tobacco companies. The decision has drawn the angry response that one would expect for its absurdity. Premier Scott Moe seemingly threatened to withhold the millions of dollars the City of Regina receives from SaskPower and SaskEnergy through the municipal surcharge. Many people who reside in southeast Saskatchewan and other areas that rely on the energy sector have talked about a boycott of Regina businesses if this motion is allowed to pass. Estevan city council took the step to issue a news release voicing their support for the oil and gas sector, and even passed a similar motion at their first meeting of the year Monday night. Granted, we all know that Estevan city council supports the energy sector, but it was still a nice gesture by our council. (Note to members of Regina city council: if any of you need a lesson about the value of the energy sector, you might want to call one of the several Estevan council members who have worked in the energy sector for a number of years). There’s also the impact this motion could have on confidence from the oil and gas companies towards Regina. Why would they want to invest in Regina after this? Why would those already there want to stay when the majority of council members said the city doesn’t want their money? Maybe the elected officials in Regina who voted against the energy sector should do their research and find out just how generous energy
companies really are. We don’t have an energy company’s name attached to Affinity Place (they are attached to other buildings and attractions in the city), but the oil companies and the mines contributed big money to the construction of Affinity Place 10 years ago. Affinity Place would be nowhere near the facility it is today without the energy companies. And while the energy sector is nowhere as strong as it was 10 years ago, you can be sure that the energy companies will be there to support the new naming rights campaign for Affinity Place and other recreation facilities in the city. Not only do oil and gas companies, and mining companies, create jobs and provide a valuable service and constantly adapt to be more environmentally friendly, but they support the communities where they operate. Of course, the timing for this motion sucked. It came the same day in which new U.S. President Joe Biden signed an executive order that effectively killed the Keystone XL pipeline. While we all knew that Biden would eventually squash the project, it was still a blow for the energy sector in this province – an industry that already has taken a lot of blows in the last 6 1/2 years. Ultimately, we’ll see on Jan. 27 whether Regina’s council sticks with this motion, or bows to public pressure and reverses course. Hopefully they’ll flip-flop. The city of Regina stands to lose too much if council members hold firm.
Choosing the most influential photos in history A few days ago, I picked up a special edition of Time magazine, which features their choice of the 100 most influential photographs of all time and tells stories behind those images. Could you guess what they chose for the cover? While this photo is definitely iconic and is known all across the world, I'd never think of it as one of the most influential. It's Lunch Atop a Skyscraper, 1932, depicting 11 men having lunch 69 stories above Manhattan at the Rockefeller Center. Even before I opened the magazine, that choice made me think about what influence is (and also made me buy it; applause to people behind that decision, not every day I spend almost $20 for one issue). When I was a kid I was sure that that picture was edited. Isn't it absurd? It was completely logical for me to believe that it was fake even though we were just getting introduced to the computers and opportunities they open (I don't think Photoshop existed when I first saw that image), than to assume that someone would not only be crazy enough to just hang out sitting on girder out in the sky over the city, but also have someone pretty much flying around them to take a picture. (By the way, there is a photo of one of the three photographers who was out there taking that picture at the end of the magazine. This one I saw for the first time and it made my stomach vibrate like butterfly's wings). But maybe that's exactly what influence is? This picture of regular men taken in the midst of the Great Depression in the States became a symbol of American ignorance towards fear, the quality that got them through many more crises down the road and the feature that inspired millions of others around the world.
Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About… That same picture also made me flip right to the end of the magazine to check out what they would have chosen from more recent creations. Can you guess what was on the last page? The 2014 poor quality celebrity loaded selfie, organized by Ellen DeGeneres, posted on Twitter right from the Oscars and that was retweeted more than any other photo in history. I guess it's a totally different story of influence. I took a class in photography in university, which taught us the basics, history and mechanics of this art or trade – depending on how you look at it. During the exam, the professor asked me what does a photograph do to reality. I was so stressed out that I couldn't remember the word "reproduce." It happened over 15 years ago, and picture-taking wasn't as much of an integral part of our routine back then as it is now. The first smartphone wasn't released yet, and cameras in cells were pretty sad. But now, when I recalled this situation, I realized that I don't see the "reproduction" of reality as the photograph's main function. In the current world, everyday millions of new photographs don't reproduce reality anymore. They make landscapes look brighter, they make people look more ideal, enhanced features create meanings the reality doesn't carry. The pictures keep creating an atmosphere and help explain what's happening somewhere, where we are not, which is also powerful, but very different. The editors of the Time issue, Ben
Goldberger, Paul Moakley and Kira Pollack, in their opening to the special edition, state that some pictures they've chosen for the magazine after the exhaustive work "were the first ones of their kind, others … shaped the way we think; and some made the cut because they directly changed the way we live." But all of them are claimed to be turning points, but without the background, in many cases, the power of pictures isn't obvious. With no context to frame it, when I tried to think what I would pick as the most influential pictures, I imagined some important landmarks, like a flag over Reichstag or mushroom cloud or images of 9/11, and significant leaders, like Churchill, Lincoln and Hitler (all actually were in the magazine). But if you look at the task as a compilation of images, you realize that sometimes something touching, or gut-wrenching, and certainly timely makes the image priceless, like Migrant Mother, by Dorothea Lange, 1936, the strongest picture that humanized the cost of Great Depression. Nowadays there is also something else that makes pictures influential, and that is not always clear to me. In general, the approach to influence chosen by the editors woke up the curiosity and created a discussion inside my head. While some choices weren't clear even after reading stories behind the pictures, the issue is worth the time as it takes attention away from routine, zooms you out and makes you think about the bigger picture and on the moments, personalities or features that became those turning points forever changing our bigger pictures. And what comes to your mind when you read "100 most influential pictures in history?"
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca
Each office is independently owned and operated.
EPS saw a four per cent increase in call volumes in 2020
David Willberg Willberg’s World
By David Willberg
Let your voice be heard this time Each year, the City of Estevan gives the public the chance to offer its thoughts on its financial plan. The document is a lot to take in – a 35-page plan sharing what each of the city’s departments accomplished in the previous year, and, obviously, what they hope to do this year. It’s well worth a look. While you won’t get a line-by-line examination like some might want, it still gives you a good review of where your tax dollars are directed. (You can find a copy of the budget on the city’s website). In previous years, the city has asked for the public to give their opinions on the document. Most years, they don’t receive any comments. Other years, they might receive one or two correspondences. The Estevan Chamber of Commerce will typically submit their thoughts. One or two ratepayers might have something to say, too. But generally opinions are scarce. There’s no increase to the municipal portion of property tax in this year’s budget, at least not as of yet. In years in which there was an increase, people would be upset, although they wouldn’t write the city to vent. Worth noting is that if the municipal property taxes remain the same, it would be the third straight year for the status quo. I believe last year someone did reach out to the city and suggest a tax increase was in order; that person reasoned that it’s better to have small, incremental tax increases each year, rather than waiting a few years and then having to jack up taxes significantly. (Note: that person wasn’t me). It’s rare for someone to public call for a property tax increase, but we do have to remember that property taxes account for the lion’s share of revenues for Estevan and likely every municipality of this size in Canada. Hopefully some people will reach out to council or city hall with their thoughts on this year’s budget. If there’s a capital project that you would like to see in the budget, or if you think council’s spending priorities are out of order, then let them know. During the past election, several candidates campaigned on increased transparency from council. They want to see more information, and we’ve seen results already. The media was allowed to sit in on a council budget discussion for the first time in several years, council has added meetings to their 2021 schedule, and there have been more questions asked at meetings. Yes, we have four new councillors, but the learning curve of the new members isn’t the only reason for what we’ve seen in the past couple of months. And so it’s important for the public to respond accordingly. Soliciting public feedback is part of the beauty of municipal politics, especially in smaller communities. You have access to the municipal leaders that you don’t get at the provincial or federal levels. You can call your city manager, your town or village administrator, or your rural municipality administrator, and talk to them, ask questions, and get answers, even though you might not like the answers to your questions. You can approach your mayor or reeve, or your councillor. Just be sure to do it at an appropriate time. Don’t do it in the middle of the night or when they’re having dinner with their family. (This isn’t a knock against our MLAs and MPs, or the staffers of the provincial and federal governments. Just a statement of fact about accessibility). And in the case of the city of Estevan, you can provide input on the budget. You wouldn’t get that with the federal government. So please take the time to go through the budget. Review it. Learn from it. And if you have concerns about the budget, raise them in a valid fashion. Approach the city manager or city council. Don’t leave your concerns to coffee row or to social media. Don’t bank on council seeing your post on a Rant and Rave page, and don’t expect it will be taken seriously if you don’t use your real name. If you think the budget is fantastic, then let council know. That’s one of the tough parts of being on council; typically, you only hear from people when they’re angry. We’re given an opportunity to share our thoughts on a budget each year. There’s no guarantee that council will heed your advice or do what you’ve asked. But at least you know you’ve tried. And at least you know that council has heard your concerns.
Figures released at the Jan. 19 meeting of the Estevan board of police commissioners showed that the EPS had 8,941 calls and infractions in 2020, up from 8,601 the previous year. “I thought they might actually go down a little bit, with COVID and things being a little bit quieter, and more people at home,” said Police Chief Paul Ladouceur. The EPS saw a 13 per cent increase in the crimes against the person, from 128 to 145 in 2020. “I’m suspecting that some of the increase, when it comes to violence in the community, is we’re also seeing a correlation with meth coming into our city,” said Ladoucuer. “There’s some concern there, when we’re seeing some meth coming into the community like we are, and we’re certainly making that a priority as we move into 2021.” Assaults inched up from 106 to 109, sexual crimes increased from 11 to 18, and assaults causing bodily harm doubled, going from nine to 18. There was an 11 per cent increase in crimes against property, from 320 to 365. Ladouceur said one of the biggest issues was mischief and willful damage, which soared from 131 in 2019 to 186 in 2020. “If you recall, we had a lot of graffiti towards the end of 2020,” said Ladouceur. An individual was arrested in early 2021, and charged with nine counts of vandalism for graffiti. But those charges were for incidents that occurred early this year. The incidents remain under investigation, and the EPS believes the person charged is responsible for
The Estevan Police Service saw an increase in activity in 2020. File photo incidents that occurred in 2020. It is a large file, Ladouceur said. “Sometimes it’s one individual or two individuals who can drive the numbers up.” Ladouceur said it was a nuisance for people to see their garage doors or other property vandalized, and local residents were annoyed to see signs around town spray-painted. Thef t under $5,000 complaints dropped from 132 to 115. There was a nine per cent increase in Controlled Drugs and Substances Act charges, from 47 to 51, but trafficking charges were down nine per cent from 19 to 17. Drug possession charges jumped 21 per cent from 28 to 34. Ladouceur believes meth possession is the biggest reason for more possession charges. “We also know all too well that meth is a ver y unpredictable drug that often correlates with a lot of spinoff. It’s highly, highly addictive, a highly unpredict-
able reaction to the drug, and that’s why we have such a concern with it coming into the community.” The opening of the Addictions Treatment Centre at St. Joseph’s Hospital late last year should help those fighting methamphetamine addictions. “I think we really have to start looking at a harm reduction approach to this,” said Ladouceur. When he started in policing, Ladouceur thought they should lock up everyone caught in possession of illegal drugs. His attitude has changed, as he now views drug abuse as a health crisis or a mental health issue. “We have to start getting these people on the right path, we need start looking at the root causes, and what they need to get on the right path. Otherwise, we’re just a revolving door. We’re going to arrest them on Friday night, and we’re going to arrest them again the following Friday night.” Ladouceur was pleased to report that Criminal Code Traffic Violations were down
29 per cent, from 161 to 114. There were 89 charges for impaired and exceed-related offences, down 29 per cent from 126 the previous year. And there were 14 charges for driving while impaired by drug, down from 24 in 2019. Eleven charges were issued for dangerous driving, the same as 2019. There weren’t any charges under the Cannabis Act. The EPS continues to receive a lot of calls about distracted driving, which is a leading cause of serious accidents and fatalities in the province. And they also continue to respond to a lot of mental health calls. A lot of those calls can be attributed to COVID-19. “This pandemic has put a lot of stress on people. We’re all dealing with this … and it ’s that COVID fatigue.” The EPS receives a lot of mental health calls over the course of the year, but they usually don’t mention them within their reports. And he expects the EPS will continue to encounter those calls in 2021.
Four people charged in death of Bienfait woman in Regina Four people have been charged in connection with the death of a Bienfait woman in Regina. Amber Dawn Wheeler, who has also been known as Amber Dawn Wood, was the victim of the incident. The Regina Police Service said it was the first homicide of the year in Regina. At approximately 8:10 a.m. on Jan. 16, police and EMS were dispatched to a residence in the 700-block of Athol Street for a report of an injured female, believed to be the victim of a shooting. The victim was taken to hospital by EMS with serious injuries and was pronounced dead a short time later. Police secured the scene and requested the coroner as well as additional resources of forensic identification and major crimes. Wheeler’s family has been notified of her death.
Regina Police announced the arrests later in the week. A male and female were apprehended on Jan. 17 and 18, and two males were arrested late on Jan. 18. Twenty-nine-year-old Justin Julien Englot and 25-year-old Jayden Marie Sanford, both of Regina, were the first to be charged. They are charged with accessory after the fact to murder and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, both under the Criminal Code. Sanford and Englot made their first court appearance on these charges in Regina Provincial Court on Jan. 19. In the case of the other two males, they were arrested after police surrounded a residence in the 1200-block of Wascana Street late on Monday, as it was believed to be the location of two suspects. Eventually, two males emerged
from the house. One was arrested without incident; the second attempted to flee on foot and was apprehended by a canine team. This male suffered relatively minor injuries from the dog bite; he was taken to hospital for treatment and then brought to the police station. Continued investigation led to charges against both males. Twenty-year-old Bobby Edward Dawson Gray and 22-year-old Peyton Anthony Stevenson, both of Regina, are charged with second-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm contrary to a probation order and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. Both Gray and Stevenson appeared in Regina Provincial Court on Jan. 20 for their first court appearances.
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A6 January 27, 2021
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Estevan youth centre is a step closer to launching By Ana Bykhovskaia A Community Impact initiative of United Way Estevan recently announced that a non-profit organization has been created and the board for the Estevan Public Youth Centre (EPYC) Inc. was formed. Now plans are underway to open the centre as early as July. The newly-formed board of directors consists of Cathy Welta, chairperson; Jordan Culham, vice-chairperson; Patrick Fisher, secretary; Sheila Guenther, treasurer; and directors Susan Colbow, Shelly Veroba and Brittany Zahn. The board of directors also thanked Jackie Wall, Travis Frank and Dwight (Fitz) Bramble for their assistance as members of the organizing committee. The group will continue to work towards launching a vibrant centre with a diverse range of programs for youths in Estevan. "We've been meeting officially and unofficially since the end of 2019. This is over a year of planning, conversations and discussions," said Fisher. The efforts of the people involved are now coming to fruition. "We are definitely at the point where we have a vision for what we want and we know what it looks like," Fisher added. Last Januar y a large community consult aimed at eliciting the main needs of the target group was held to assist with shaping up the future centre. "Various members of the community, various organizations gave us a lot of good initial direction for what they wanted to see," Fisher recalled.
EPYC's main, bottom, and simplified logos reflect the goals of the organization. Photo submitted The group also looked into the history of similar youth initiatives that were started in the past but didn't make it through time. They collected a lot of information to ensure that the new project would serve the immediate needs of Estevan youth. Swift Current's youth organization, THE CENTER, was also a lot of help in consulting the EPYC on processes and procedures. "They provided us a lot of good information on bylaws, finances that they've had over the past years from when they started up at the start of
last decade to where they are now, job positions and ideas for programming that they've had provided." Based on existing knowledge and experience, the hope is EPYC will gradually grow into a successful youth centre that serves local needs. The organization's ideas and goals were put into their main and simplified logos. "Our vision is to collectively help youth to discover and grow in their passion, purpose and potential. "Discovery is a journey - a compass symbolizes direction. The four arrows sug-
gest that. The double arrow above and below our name is a Scandinavian (Viking) symbol for choose your own reality. "The simplified version
has arrows pointing forward and backward. The forward arrow suggests moving youth towards their passion, purpose, and potential. The backward arrow recognizes that sometimes we go in the wrong direction. EPYC is at the centre of it all, being there for those heading in the right direction and for those that are trying to find their way." Plans are underway to have EPYC programming available as early as July 2021. Phase 1 involves hiring a youth program director and using existing facilities on a rotating/as available basis. "Right now our focus is going to be on finding information and funding so we can hire a program co-ordinator. For Phase I, our idea that with a program co-ordinator, a dedicated staff member, we can start doing programming without actual (permanent building for programs) to be held in. We can partner with churches, some other organizations that have places in town we need for a weekend or a day," Fisher said. This approach will allow the organization to get an even better understanding of what appeals to local youth the most and eventually find the perfect location. The programs to be offered through EPYC are to be discussed yet, but they all will serve the main goals of the organization.
"We want it to be there for the youth in town. We want it to be fun. We want it to be exciting. We want it to be inclusive." Phase 2 will move to a temporary facility and additional programs. Phase 3 will see a long-term or permanent facility that allows for a variety of youth programs and mentorship opportunities for the community. But so far, the focus is on allocating the funding to be able to hire a part or full-time programming staff member. "We are reaching out to local government, businesses, organizations and individuals for financial support of this very needed program," reads EPYC's news release. Community volunteers will be also needed to assist with programs when they open. Details regarding recruitment, signup and training will be provided at a later date. Representatives of the EPYC were at Estevan city council Monday night to discuss the concept and answer questions from council members. Council approved $20,000 for the project. For more information on how to support EPYC, people can visit their website at www. theepyc.ca or contact Sheila Guenther at United Way Estevan by email sheila@ unitedwayestevan.com or phone 306-421-3357.
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BUSINESS A7
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca
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“There’s always been a strong culture of caring:” mayor gives annual new year’s address The first regular open council meeting of the year typically begins with a mayor’s address, and Mayor Roy Ludwig continued that tradition at Monday night’s meeting of Estevan city council. The past year was a busy one for the city. The water intake project, which switched the city’s primary water source from Boundary Dam to Rafferty Dam, was completed. Souris Avenue South from Fourth Street to Perkins Street was resurfaced; that project was cost-shared with the provincial government. A water main replacement and a road rehabilitation project for Veterans Crescent were completed.
Upgrades happened for the Power Dodge Curling Centre, turnout gear was purchased for the Estevan Fire Rescue Service, the Estevan Public Library had a makeover, the official community plan was released, and upgrades to Dennis Moore Centennial Park occurred, highlighted by a new spray park. There were upgrades to soccer pitches and ball diamonds, and renewals for sidewalks. On the economic development front, a number of projects are moving forward, and the city is looking forward to bringing them to fruition. “We continue to work
diligently towards a new nursing home,” said Ludwig. “The issues around nursing homes have really come to the forefront with the outbreak of COVID. Across the country, the shortfalls of nursing homes have been highlighted.” The city will continue to press the provincial government for a new nursing home, Ludwig said. “Several options have been presented but yet, none have been accepted,” said Ludwig. In the community, a new addictions treatment centre for St. Joseph’s Hospital is open, and the Estevan Eclipse Downhole Solutions U18 AAA Bears played their first
Rollover north of Estevan left one person dead Last Wednesday, Estevan Fire Rescue Service (EFRS) was called to a vehicle rollover that resulted in a fatality. Early in the afternoon, a report of a single-vehicle accident came in. Emergency crews were dispatched to a location 20 kilometres north of Estevan on Highway 47, where a vehicle rolled over, left the road surface and
ended up in the east ditch. “RCMP, Estevan city police and EMS also attended the scene. “ We provided traffic control for a while until other agencies arrived on scene to take over. It was a fatal incident,” said Estevan Fire Chief Dale Feser. A 61-year-old man from Lampman died in the rollover.
The incident is still under investigation by the Estevan RCMP, the RCMP traffic reconstructionist and the coroner. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor. Road conditions at the time of the accident were poor and surface was icy due to a weather system with strong winds that moved through the southeast that day.
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game and dedicated their dressing room to the memory of Ron Areshenkoff. The Grad Cruise in June for the Class of 2020 at the Estevan Comprehensive School was a huge success. The United Way Estevan surpassed its goal during its annual telethon in October, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation had a successful Festival of Trees with activities people could do at home, the Community Hamper Association and the Angel Tree program helped a record number of people, the Estevan Kinette Club’s PJ Project had another successful year, the 100 Kids who Care decorated trees in the Pleasantdale Valley before Christmas as part of their Joyful Pathway Project, and the Rotary Club of Estevan had a different but successful Lobsterfest. In the 2021 budget, which can now be viewed on the City of Estevan’s website, the city is looking at water tower upgrades, repairs to the paddling park at the Churchill Play Park, continued infrastructure improvements, upgrades to the HVAC units at the Estevan Leisure Centre and completing the expansion of the Estevan Police Service’s building. Ludwig also called for people to remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19.
Mayor Roy Ludwig talked about the issues facing the city during his annual Mayor’s address. “As we look for ward to 2021, let ’s do so with optimism and confidence, understanding that working through our challenges together, we will be stronger and more resilient,” he said. “There’s always been a strong culture of caring, helping those less fortunate, along with volunteerism in our community. This has helped us through the years,
but especially the past year.” L udwig encour aged people to pay close attention to their mental health, to take time for themselves, acknowledge their feelings, and get enough sleep exercise and fresh air. And he’s looking forward to working with council, which has four new members elected in November of last year.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #60, Estevan would like to thank everyone for their continued support. Because of your donations to our campaigns and fundraisers, we are able to give. In 2020, we donated $79,000 to local charities and groups.
Last week, the city of Estevan reaffirmed their support for the energy sector in southeast Saskatchewan. For years Estevan has been known as the Energy City and is home to mining and power generation as well as many oil and gas businesses and their employees. As legislation and markets change, we understand the importance of having a diverse economy that can support the workers in our city, but we also recognize the importance of the energy sector businesses in the area and their future as a part of our economy. Coal plays a major role in Estevan’s economy with both mining and power generation jobs, and we continue to advocate to the Provincial Government and SaskPower for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) to be implemented on Boundary Dam Unit 6 and the Shand Power Station. Coal fired power generation with CCS can provide cost effective and environmentally safe and clean base load power. Coal also has a future in projects like the poly-generation facility that is currently being researched for the Estevan area. Other opportunities for diversification in energy continue to present themselves. Estevan is well placed to take advantage of opportunities like solar or wind power with our prolonged periods of sunshine and vast, windy open space. Geothermal energy is another opportunity for the city, and projects like DEEP Earth Energy Production’s Torquay site great signs for the future of Geothermal technologies being used in southeast Saskatchewan. Oil will also continue to be an important part of our economy, as new and innovative technologies are developed and implemented. These are just a few of the many opportunities that exist for Estevan’s economy. The City of Estevan and the Economic Development Board are committed to supporting our current industries, while working to find, support and advocate for new opportunities for our city. To learn more about the goals of the Economic Development Board and the opportunities we are working on visit www.estevaneconomicdevelopment.ca
DONATIONS FROM POPPY FUND Paws for Vets $10,000 (provides service dogs for Veterans) Leave the Streets Behind $7,500 (assists homeless Veterans) Veterans Wellness Program $2,500 (provides support for Veterans general wellness) 2901 PPCLI Army Cadets $6,000 Wylie Mitchell #30 Air Cadets $2,000 2901 PPCLI Pipe & Drum School $2,000 ECS Bursaries $6,000 TOTAL $36,000 DONATIONS FROM FUNDRAISERS (TRUCK RAFFLE, BINGOS ETC.) Salvation Army Food Bank $6,500 St Joseph’s Hospital Addictions Center $5,000 St Joseph’s Hospital Long Term Care $5,000 Creighton Lodge $5,000 Estevan Nursing Home $5,000 Stars Air Ambulance $4,000 Estevan Minor Ball $3,000 South East Military Museum $3,000 First Nations Food Banks $2,500 Estevan United Way $2,000 Smile Services $2,000 Child Find Saskatchewan $200 Estevan and District Music Festival $100 TOTAL $43,000
ENERGY A8
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City of Estevan continues to welcome the energy sector In the wake of the City of Regina’s executive committee moving to distance themselves from energy companies, despite those companies’ support of Regina’s economy and valuable programs within their community, the City of Estevan says it continues to welcome all energy sector businesses to the city. Estevan city council, administration and economic development board are committed to further and continued support of businesses in the oil and gas industries. City council recognizes the economic and community support that is provided by these businesses and is committed to ensuring that no such discriminatory policies are created under its municipal government.
Estevan has a rich history rooted in the oil and gas, mining and power production sectors. “We feel it’s important to stand up for the energy businesses who donate significantly to our communities,” said Mayor Roy Ludwig. City council passed a motion voicing its support for the energy sector at Monday’s meeting, articulating its support and acceptance of sponsorships of any kind from oil and gas businesses. The employment opportunities and economic spinoff will always be appreciated in Estevan. The City of Estevan, home to world leading technologies like carbon capture and storage at the Boundary Dam Power Station, is confident that the businesses in the energy sector are effectively
working to mine, extract, and produce their product in ways that are safer for the environment and viable for the economy. Over the years, Canadian oil and gas companies have been global leaders in environmental sustainability and it will take support and collaboration with these businesses to pave the way for greener technologies within the energy sector. Estevan’s vibrant, growing and diverse economy is characterized by power generation, coal mining, agriculture, manufacturing and oil and gas drilling. Estevan has become known as the Energy Capital of Saskatchewan – a distinction based on an extraordinary resource base and the strong resource sector that is serviced primarily out of Estevan.
The City of Estevan has reaffirmed its support for the energy sector. Photo by Robert Godfrey of Lemon Wedge Marketing
SIMSA to hold virtual energy update March 24 By Brian Zinchuk, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Like almost every other public event since COVID-19
hit in March 2020, the Saskatchewan Industrial & Mining Suppliers Association Inc. (SIMSA) had to put off its regular October Oil & Gas Supply Chain Forum.
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But now SIMSA is back at it, going virtual with an event to be held on March 24. Eric Anderson, executive director of SIMSA, said, “We’re going in the end of March. We’re calling it Saskatchewan Suppliers’ Energy Update.” Social distancing requirements mean things like the speed networking and in-person networking will not be able to take place, but this event will still seek to get information to its participants, according to Anderson. Eric Nuttal, partner and senior portfolio manager with
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Ninepoint Partners LP, is the keynote speaker. He recently spoke in a similar event held by the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors, providing a positive outlook for the oilpatch. Anderson noted that there’s a little broader focus, including things like lithium and hydrogen. All of those are being developed with oilfield services. The one-day online event will have speakers from oil producer Crescent Point Energy Corp., pipeline company TC Energy, refiner Federated Co-operative Limited,
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geothermal pioneer Deep Earth Energy Production, SaskEnergy, Prairie Lithium/ LiEP Energy, Royal Helium, new micro-refinery Independent Energy Corporation, SaskPower on its Moose Jaw power plant, and hydrogen developer Proton Technologies. Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre will also be speaking. The Government of Saskatchewan partners on these events. Anderson spoke of optimism of things turning around, and is currently planning on hosting its regular event in Regina this October.
“ That ’s provided the COVID vaccines roll out, and provided they work. There are a lot of ifs there, but I think we all know what they are. If things change, things change the positive way. We all hope they do. “Eventually, as the vaccines roll out, planes are going to start flying around, cars are going to start driving around and the demand will return,” Anderson said. On the supply side, he expects this summer there will be a need to build up inventory, and drilling will start again.
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January 27, 2021 A9
Staff and residents at St. Joseph’s long-term care are fine after resident tested positive for COVID St. Joseph’s Hospital CEO Greg Hoffort is praising the response of staff members in the hospital’s long-term care ward after a resident tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month. The hospital received notification of the positive test on Jan. 16. The positive test was noted on the COVID-19 section of the Government of Saskatchewan’s website last week. Hoffort said that a resident was showing symptoms of the virus. The individual was given a COVID-19 test, which was positive. The hospital followed it up by immediately testing all of the residents and staff in long-term care.
“All tests are conducted on-site and then confirmed in the provincial … Roy Romanow Lab,” said Hoffort. “In the case of all staff and all of the residents … they all tested both negative on-site and at the Roy Romanow Provincial Lab.” The resident who tested positive then had two more tests carried out. Both tests came back negative. “Our facility has been cleared,” Hoffort said. Hoffort’s not sure why this person would have had one positive test and then tested negative twice. It could have been a false positive or the positive test could have come at the end of the incubation period for COVID.
The staff members who were most recently working with the resident were off for a few days after the positive test, but now they are back at work after the resident’s two negative tests. With any patient care areas, COVID-19 protocols are in place at the hospital, Hoffort said. “It was an impressive response by the staff to the positive test, and in short order we had all of the residents tested and staff tested, and we’re grateful it turned out to be negative. Lots of care homes in the province and our country are going through some terrible ordeals with it, and we’re fortunate that we thus far have kept it out.”
A resident in long-term care at St. Joseph’s tested positive for COVID-19, but everyone is fine. File photo
Transportation report reveals few changes The number of students currently being transported to and from schools in the South East Cornerstone P ublic S c hool Division (SECPSD) has been reduced by about 1,000 compared with 2019 statistics. School student transportation reports, including student rider numbers are delivered semi-annually by Andy Dobson, the division’s manager of facilities and transportation. That task was carried out remotely on Jan. 20 during the board’s monthly business meeting that was also in an online version. While facilities were not the main objective of the report, Dobson added a few informational items of interest dealing with damages inflicted on Cornerstone schools as a result of the high winds that arrived with blizzard conditions in southeast Saskatchewan on Jan.13. One notable damage report indicated that the Gladmar School roof was nearly completely destroyed by the high winds, some brick work was damaged and other schools suffered varying degrees of damage including the relatively new Weyburn Comprehensive School that
also suffered roof damages. He said roof anchors kept the WCS roof in place, but damages were still significant. Other facilities like the Estevan Comprehensive School and the new Legacy Park Elementar y School in Weyburn suffered more minor damages. Dobson said replacement and repair programs were well under way and classes resumed in Gladmar within three working days of the event. Total damages could exceed $1 million he said. Prior to the school damage report though, Dobson brought the transportation report to the forefront. He stated 3,361 students were regularly riding in SECPSD buses in January compared with 4,158 recorded for the same time period last year. Most of the downward trend is attributable to the COVID pandemic and a request from the division to have families drive their children to schools whenever possible rather than have them taking a bus for health reasons and the fact that bus rider numbers have to be reduced to comply with spacing regulations implemented with the re-opening of schools
following the arrival of the pandemic last year. Dobson said there are three transportation garages/ shops under the direction of one supervisor, three foremen and a group of five technicians with three journeymen mechanics in Weyburn and Estevan shops and one in the Moosomin facility. There are 154 drivers and 23 substitute drivers on call for the 112 routes overseen by SECPSD and 42 routes under the direction of a contracted company, First Student Transportation. Dobson addressed the issue of buses with significant kilometre readings, saying that 29 of them had now registered more than 300,000 kilometres. He said some are taken out of service around the 350,000 km. mark, but it sometimes depends on overall condition. He said one exceptional bus has tracked over 460,000 kms and is still in service as a back up or fill-in bus as are several others with more than 350,000 kms on the odometers. Dobson noted that 42 buses run from the newly constructed Weyburn garage, which is the same size as the Estevan facility where
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48 buses are dispatched and maintained. A further 22 buses are under the control of the Moosomin garage and shop. Dobson said the recruitment of spare drivers is an ongoing problem but there has been some relief in sight following newspaper advertising plus a bonus offered to those who are successful recruiters among the current driver rosters. The new drivers un-
dergo police security checks as well as health checks to go along with the training and testing regime. Weather this winter, with the exception of Jan. 13, has mainly been co-operative with most of the cancellations of routes being caused by a lack of a driver, rather than weather conditions. Dobson will provide another transportation report near the end of the school year.
Andy Dobson
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A Guide to Post Secondary Education
Team effort enhances student experience Sask Polytech Simulation Centre teams up with Addictions Counselling to give students real world experience. Ask alumni about their time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic and they’ll probably have a story about one special class. For current students in the Addictions Counselling diploma program, that one class may very well be COUN 155-Addictions Counselling Practice. “Individual counselling is the cornerstone of an addiction counsellor’s work, and Addictions Counselling Practice gives students the skills they will need in the workplace,” says instructor Joy Friesen. “It’s a lab class where students practice the counselling model with each other, but we thought providing them with simulated clients would be an outstanding experience.” Simulated clients? Friesen is referring to actors hired by Sask
Polytech’s Simulation Centre to portray different clients. Each client had a different presenting problem, level of motivation and way of sharing their story. “It’s difficult to simulate the dynamic that happens in real life between a client and a counsellor. When students are practicing with their peers or instructors, there’s a degree of comfort because you know it’s not a real client,” Friesen says. Using live actors to simulate the clientcounsellor interaction was designed to give students an opportunity to work through the first stage of the counselling model, while at the same time adapting each client’s defense mechanisms, types of storytelling and process of build-
ing rapport. Students also practiced building cultural safety and being culturally responsive with clients. COVID-19 prevented students’ from having face-to-face interactions, so Benn Hart and Wendy Wilson, both simulation technicians at Sask Polytech, stepped up to help develop an experience that was as real as possible. “With COVID, Sask Polytech had to move a lot of things to virtual platforms very quickly, so it’s been really busy in the Simulation Centre,” Hart says. “What we do often looks easy, but there’s a lot we have to do in the back-
ground to make it happen.” The first step was meeting with Friesen to discuss her goals. “This was our first time working with the Addictions Counselling program, so we had a Zoom meeting with Joy to get a clear understanding of what she was looking for,” says Wilson. “We hired actors to fit her scenarios and brought them to our simulation centre in Saskatoon, where we could ensure contact and social distancing guidelines were followed. We worked with the actors on their roles and set up the rooms.” Friesen met with the ac-
tors to brief them on the counselling model and the goals of the clinical lab. “I also encouraged them to ad lib. I wanted our students to learn to trust themselves, because a counsellor never knows what a client will say or how they will act,” she says. The simulation rooms were equipped with cameras and the necessary technology to allow remote log in to the virtual counselling sessions. Wilson and Hart provided onsite technical support, while Friesen and her students logged in from their homes. Each student completed a 30 to 40-minute
simulated counselling session, followed by feedback from observing students and the actor. Friesen was able to view each session as it happened. Based on student feedback, the virtual counselling sessions were a big success. “Our students loved having this opportunity,” Friesen says. “They say it really helped them understand the importance of staying grounded, of building the therapeutic alliance and of meeting the client where they are at. The whole simulation experience was rich in learning and really built their confidence.”
Creative passion becomes profession From small town Saskatchewan to beautiful British Columbia, education at Medicine Hat College (MHC) helped pave the way to a career of joy and fulfillment for Myron Campbell. Campbell is a thriving artist and a professor in the division of Visual Arts at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO). His creative journey began in the Visual Communications diploma program at MHC, which has since become Bachelor of Applied Arts – Art and Design. “Medicine Hat College is a little gem. I first heard about the institution from my junior high art teacher and after high school, I went to
the city to visit a friend who was taking the program. I absolutely loved it there,” remarks Campbell. “Medicine Hat was the perfect size and not too big which was desirable to me having grown up in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The facility had high end equipment and 24 hour access both were unprecedented at the time. The program was well rounded in that I could pursue my own personal art, as well as clientbased work at the same time. I knew it was the perfect fit for me.” Campbell acknowledges the program as being influential in shaping him into the artist he is today, credit-
ing the vast array of modalities, skills, and techniques he was exposed to during his time at the college. “MHC’s program is unique in that it offers a real balance of both fine arts training and design training. It’s pretty rare to get that balance in a program, and the college does a great job of it,” explains Campbell. “It’s an ideal academic pathway for someone like me who can’t decide what type of artist I am on any given day. I was introduced to every medium possible and then built up my practice to what suited me. I received a real broad training which was so awesome.”
Campbell praises a professor he had at MHC as a huge inspiration and driving force behind where he is today, a role he strives to fill for the students he now teaches. “Teaching creative studies is where I belong. My passion for art and creativity has lead me to a place where I’m forever being fulfilled, inspired, and growing as an artist, designer and practitioner.” Learn more about Art & Design and all of the programs Medicine Hat College has to offer at www. mhc.ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-282-8394.
Building connections at Brandon University The past year has shown us how important it is to stay connected with families, friends and our community. Helping students build those strong connections is something that Brandon University does best. As a growing university with 3,500 students from around the world, BU stays true to its prairie roots with a welcoming spirit and a commitment
to delivering quality programs that prepare graduates for the opportunities and challenges of the future. Most BU classes have fewer than 20 students, allowing for a personalized education. “Having small class sizes is probably what has helped me out the most,” said Elizabeth Glenn, a third-year Physical Education student. “With professors working with you one-
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on-one you get to know each other, resulting in an amazing learning experience that helps you grow as a student and a person.” The connections students make extend beyond the university. Brandon University’s Co-operative Education program offers the chance for students to develop their career skills. By integrating study terms with full-time work terms at jobs related to their academic programs, students in the Co-op program can earn while they learn. Brandon University is also a great place for students to take part in world-class research, even at the undergraduate level. Right now, BU students are working with national and international experts on cancer detection, environmental protection, quantum computing and Indigenous health and education. Extracurricular activities like the Student Leader program and more than 50 clubs and collectives create even more opportunities for growth and friendships. “As a recent graduate
with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, joining the Student Leader program at Brandon University was one of the best decisions I made,” said Laura Davidson. “This program allowed me to meet many other students from different departments, which allowed me to form everlasting friendships.” Laura’s not alone. More than 93 per cent of recent BU grads said that BU prepared them to excel. And 98 per cent said they’d heartily recommend BU. There are plenty of choices at BU, with 19 undergraduate degree program among Arts, Education, Health Studies, Science and the School of Music. “Students appreciate that they don’t have to travel far or move to a big city to get the education that they’re looking for,” said Courtney Adams, BU’s Director of Recruitment and Retention. “We’ve got everything that you need right here.” Take a video tour of BU and book your virtual presentation today by visiting BrandonU.ca/Your-Future.
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January 27, 2021 A11
A Guide to Post Secondary Education
MHC adds Agroecology to program mix An exciting new program has been added to Medicine Hat College’s academic offering, giving students interested in sustainable agriculture an opportunity to become a registered technologist in Agrology (RTAg), while staying close to home in the southern Prairies. The two year Agroecology Technician diploma program provides students with the competencies required for producing food, forage, fiber, and fuel using sustainable methods, as well as a range of knowledge in the three E’s: environment, economics, and energy using systems theory. Learners will engage in experiential learning opportunities to gain realworld experience in designing, monitoring and assessing sustainable agroecological systems, meeting the knowledge, technical skills, and performance competencies required for certification with the Alberta Institute of Agrologists. “Medicine Hat College is excited to bring this opportunity to learners in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan as the program is well-aligned and serves
the needs of our region and communities in terms of offering new streams of employment and alternative ways of doing agriculture,” explains the program’s coordinator, Brent Smith. This program uniquely teaches a systems-thinking approach to sustainable agriculture and will equip learners with the knowledge and skills required for protecting and conserving natural ecosystems, as well as maximizing production systems that mimic natural systems such as perennial crops, diversity, rotations, limited/no till grazing, and many more. “Agriculture is one of southern Alberta’s leading industries, and there is always going to be resources and demand for agriculture because everyone needs to eat,” adds Smith. “This program leverages an important part of our region’s economic sector and prepares students to find meaningful, longterm employment and a future income stream that’s not going to be subject to market forces.” Employment opportunities that stem from the completion of the Agro-
ecology Technician diploma include agricultural research technician, urban agriculture designer or landscaper, range management consultant or professional, and an environmental consultant. Graduates will also be equipped with the entrepreneurial knowledge needed to start a business in sustainable agriculture or greenhouse horticulture, or support the takeover of a family agriculture business as a crop or livestock producer. “An exciting aspect to this program is the innovative and creative opportunities in diversifying current practices and products that will emerge. Students will taught about free food production design systems, low input parks and community spaces, and drought-proofing and water harvesting that all have a profoundly positive impact on the future of our communities and our environment. “Additionally, there are all kinds of agricultural products that our region is well-suited to produce that we are currently not taking advantage of, and this program can be influ-
ential in creating new industry and bringing subsequent jobs in our region,” remarks Smith. Upon completion of the diploma, the opportunity further exists for students to transfer to universities
offering sustainable agriculture programs. Applications are now open for this program, with the first intake of students to begin their studies in Fall 2021. For more information
on MHC’s Agroecology Technician program or to apply, visit www.mhc. ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-2828394.
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More than one-third of storm claims from farms The winter storm that wreaked havoc on southeast Saskatchewan earlier this month had a significant impact on many in Saskatchewan, but farmers appear to be particularly hard hit. According to Tyler McMurchy, the manager of media relations for Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI), the Crown corporation has received 2,264 property claims (including 771 AgroPak claims) and 508 auto claims related to wind damage. The storm packed wind gusts that reached 120 kilometres per hour. AgroPaks are for farm customers, and cover barns, sheds, livestock, machinery and equipment, but can also cover dwellings, all-terrain vehicles and watercrafts. “When it comes to AgroPak claims, a lot of the damage we are seeing is from empty bins, with many being a total loss,” said McMurchy.
Grain bins were among the common victims of the winter storm that swept through much of Saskatchewan earlier this month. Photo submitted “Some have imploded when the hatches blew open and the wind speeds created a vacuum. We’ve also had a few pole sheds disappear and/or collapse onto the machinery stored inside for the winter.
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“This has resulted in some significant claims. In short, we are seeing many damaged bins and farm buildings.” It’s possible there are some claims from customers who have an AgroPak that covers their farm property and also includes their dwelling located in a town or city, and the urban dwelling was what was damaged, McMurchy said. But he expects that would be less than 10 per
cent of AgroPak holders. Most AgroPak claims repor ted are loc ated in southern Saskatchewan, primarily between Regina and Weyburn. Customers have up to two years to file a claim, so McMurchy expects these numbers to continue to grow in the coming weeks and months. Some of the AgroPak claims they have seen may just be for personal property, but they will have
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to wait until all claims are fully reserved to determine if this is the case. “It will be a while until SGI can provide an accurate estimation of the total value of AgroPak claims in particular, due to the complexity of farm building claims. We will continue to monitor the situation as more data becomes available,” McMurchy said. Of the claims that they’ve received, 98 per cent of their customers have been contacted. On average, this happens within a couple of days. The value of individual claims vary widely. McMurchy noted that for this time of year, there
isn’t a huge history of winter storms causing this much damage in Saskatchewan. In January 2014, a windstorm and blizzard that swept through much of the province resulted in about $5 million in claims. “However, there was a similar wind event in October 2017, which had a cost of $16 million,” he said. “Although we don’t have firm estimates yet, the January 2021 storm could end up approaching or even surpassing that, as it had higher wind speeds over a similar area with a similar population and with some consideration for inflation,” he said.
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Cornerstone expects to launch French immersion program for Pleasantdale School soon The COVID pandemic is not stopping the South East Cornerstone Public School Division (SECPSD) from moving forward with a bold plan to expand their French language immersion program in Estevan and introduce a program in Weyburn. Lynn Little, director of education and CEO of the public division informed the board members during their Jan. 20 online meeting that plans are unfolding and it is expected that a French immersion project in two elementary schools will be launched in the fall, at the start of the new school year. The objective is to teach the participants to become functionally fluent in the French language. “There have been more families asking for it,” said Little. Currently, the only school in the division that offers French immersion is the Estevan Comprehensive School where students from Grades 9 to 12 can become engaged in
the more complete program while others may work with Core French programming if desired. In the past, families of elementary public school students in Estevan who wished to immerse their youngsters in French in the elementary system relied on the immersion program offered by Sacred Heart/Sacre Coeur School, a member of the Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division that are ongoing scholastic partners with SECPSD. Having a school within the public-school scope that is willing to provide French immersion is now in the plan, said Little. Pleasantdale School in Estevan has been selected as the location for French immersion in that city while Assiniboia Park Elementary School in Weyburn will handle those duties and French programming there. Little explained that to maintain sustainability, registration at the beginning level,
Correction In our Babies of 2020 special section in the Jan. 13 edition of the Mercury, the wrong date of birth for Zoe Elizabeth Ann LaVallee was listed. She was born on Dec. 27, 2019, and not on Dec. 27, 2020. The Mercury apologizes for any inconvenience this might have caused. Also, Hudson Travis Holma was inadvertently missed. Congratulations to the Holma family.
Zoe Elizabeth Ann LaVallee
Kindergarten, Grades 1 and Grade 2 would have to be at least 15 students in the instructional unit. She said an earlier survey among parents indicated this was a realistic goal. “We will then add grade levels as they (students) progress. The schools will be dual track,” offering all their regular programs and subject areas as before. There will be no attendance boundary restrictions for French immersion students. Registrations for the new program will begin Jan. 22, and further information and engagement sessions are planned which will include a question and answer template posted on the division’s website. Little said about 16,500 Saskatchewan students are currently engaged in French immersion programs, so the signal was clear for the local public division to get further involved. She also noted that a French language consultant has been contracted to assist them with their start-up planning and implementation.
The South East Cornerstone Public School Division expects to have French Immersion at Pleasantdale School, starting in September.
Choose Life Ministry part of Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser Choose Life Ministry, which is based out of southeast Saskatchewan, is among the organizations that will participate in a fundraiser named the Coldest Night of the Year. Choose Life founder Shelley Boyes said it is a nationwide walk that will happen Feb. 20. The ministry is holding the event in Estevan, starting at 4 p.m., with twokilometre and five-kilometre outdoor walks. The Estevan Leisure Centre will be the start-finish area. “It is to bring awareness to people who are homeless, hungry and hurting, and to raise funds for the charities who support those individu-
als,” said Boyes. As the name implies, it will happen regardless of the weather conditions. Organizers are still looking for sponsors and volunteers. They need route marshals, a welcome back team, photographers, and people who help with set-up and take-down. Volunteers would also be needed at a rest stop area partway through the walk. Participants will be sent off in groups of 10 every 30 minutes, and they will be socially distanced. There won’t be an indoor gathering. “There will be food, but it will be pre-packaged food, and beverages,” said Boyes.
December 27, 2019 Daughter of Cory & Heidi LaVallee
Eight teams and more than 30 walkers have already registered, and they would like to have two or three more squads involved. A team captain will register, and then gather members, typically eight to 10 people. Participants can also register and raise funds individually. If an adult raises more than $150 or a youth raises more than $75, they will receive a free Coldest Night of the Year toque. “You can participate virtually,” said Boyes. “We have a team that’s walking in Melita, Manitoba, and we have a team that’s walking near Carlyle, so all of those walkers won’t actually be walking in Estevan. They’ll be participating virtually from their own communities.” Choose Life has been unable to host its annual fundraisers, such as its red carpet
gala, so they had to do something creative to generate funds this year. Last year Boyes and another staff member from Choose Life participated in a Coldest Night of the Year walk in Brandon, Man., and she said it was a fun, well-organized event that would do well in southeast Saskatchewan. The money raised will go to Choose Life’s programming at its Homestead for Hope, where they help young women with life-controlling issues. Boyes said it costs about $5,000 per month to help each resident. Choose Life has been able to remain open and operating during the pandemic, with measures in place. Boyes can’t disclose how many people are currently at the Homestead, but they have people in their care, and they aren’t at the capacity of six residents.
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Mermaids receive results from virtual meet Members of the Estevan Mermaids synchronized swim club have received the marks from the Marnie Eistetter Figures Meet, which was held virtually. Clubs were asked to send in videos of their competitors by the end of November. Results were sent out earlier this month. For the figure scores, swimmers were asked to
demonstrate their ability with different figures. Isabelle Pyra, competing in the under-10 division, finished third of 12 competitors, as she received a score of 5.0667 for her split position, and 4.9 for her bent knee position. Seven members competed in the under-12 division. Elle Meyers finished fifth with a 5.2 for her ballet leg and 5.6667 for her
straight leg. Sarah Pyra was sixth with a 4.933 in ballet leg and 5.7333 in straight leg. The other U12 swimmers were Chloe Mantei, 10th, 4.8333 ballet leg and 5.2667 straight leg, Sierra Mantei, 16th, 4.5667 bent leg and 4.7667 straight leg, Kasia Harding, 4.9667 bent leg and 4.0667 straight leg, Calla Campbell, 23rd, 3.7667 bent leg and 4.733 straight
The Estevan Snowmobile Club has made the difficult decision of not having trails this year, citing the lack of snow in the southeast region. The club made the announcement on its Facebook page Jan. 20. President Dave Heier said it would be great to have trails this year, since snowmobiling is one of the activities that people can enjoy while following social distancing guidelines. “It would have been great to have some trails,” said Heier. Club members looked at the weather forecast, saw there wouldn’t be much snow in the
forecast before the end of the month, and decided not to groom trails. “It will probably take us two weekends after that (the snow), so we’re into February, and we usually have to take our trails down by the middle of March, because if we don’t, we lose too many of the stakes. They fall down, and we can’t find them in the … stubble.” It would be a lot of work to groom 258 kilometres of trails for a month of use. If the Estevan area were to a large dump of snow – Heier said a foot of the white stuff, and not whipped around
by wind – within the next few days, the club might reconsider the decision. A good base would be eight inches of snow. They haven’t had that the past two winters. Some local snowmobilers have been going to Kenosee Lake this winter. Grooming of trails in that area just started. Others have been going to Esterhazy, Yorkton, Hudson Bay, Tisdale, Melfort and Candle Lake. “ There’s good snow around Saskatoon, I’ve heard, and usually there’s no good snow around Kindersley, but that whole area from Kindersley to Rosetown to … Kenaston, there’s lots of good snow there.” Estevan was supposed to host the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association’s festival the weekend of March 6 and 7, with 300 riders in attendance, but the lack of snow and the COVID-19 pandemic prevented the club from hosting the event. The club remains in good shape financially, despite the lack of snow in recent years, but they find it disappointing they can’t provide the service they want to the community. The club is selling Sled4 tickets as a fundraiser, and they retain 75 per cent of the revenues from the tickets sold. Usually they sell $3,000 or $4,000 a year. Tickets can be purchased at Thunder City Power and Leisure.
Snowmobile club won’t have trails this year
January 28th A Day for Remembering the Victims of Abortion On January 28, 1988, the Supreme Court of Canada issued the Morgentaler decision which struck down abortion as part of the criminal code. Since then, there have been no laws whatsoever to regulate abortion in Canada through all nine months of pregnancy. On January 28th, wear a green ribbon and remember the 3 million Canadians who have lost their lives to abortion.
Prayer for the Preborn Children Loving Father, Today I pray for your powerful intercession to end abortion in Canada. As your humble servant, I commit to Never be silent. Never be passive. Never forget the preborn who can be legally killed at any time. I ask for compassion to comfort those suffering from abortion, wisdom to guide those considering abortion, and courage to challenge the status quo that allows abortion. Let me be a defender of life. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen
Find us on Facebook at Pro-Life Estevan and Area www.prolifeestevan.com
Pro-Life Estevan and Area, Inc. PO Box 1829, Stn. M, Estevan, SK S4A 2X8. 306-461-4611 Donations welcome via cheque, cash, auto-deposit or etransfer to prolifeestevan@gmail.com Pregnant? Call 1-800-842-7752 Options Pregnancy 1-866-870-3344 Birthright of Regina 1-800-550-4900
leg, and Mahaley Frostand, 24th, 4.2 bent leg and 4.3667 straight leg. Three swimmers entered the 15U. Swimming the rio, Ava Allen had a 5.3333 score , Sasha Mantei a 5.2667 and Rowyn Shier had a 4.7. As for the juniors, Rebecca Duncan was 14th with a 5.8667 in the barracuda airborne split and a 5.77 in the manta ray hybrid, Haley Copeland was 15th with a 5.8667 in the barracuda airborne and a 5.9 in the manta ray, and Laura Swirski was 23rd with a 5.7 in the barracuda airborne and a 5.333 in the manta ray. In the long-term athlete development competition, swimmers were ranked based on birth year rather than age. For 2011 swimmers, Is-
abelle Pyra was third in rank speed swimming and first in dryland testing. Among 2010-born swimmers, Calla Campbell was 14th in speed swimming and sixth in land testing, and Mahaley Frostad was 13th in speed swimming and 10th in land testing. As for 2009 swimmers, Elle Meyers was second in speed swimming and fifth in land, Sarah Pyra was eighth in speed swimming and sixth in land, Sierra Mantei was 10th in speed swimming and eighth in land, Chloe Mantei was 14th in speed swimming and seventh in land, and Kasia Harding was 17th in speed swimming and ninth in land. Rowyn Shier was 13th in speed swimming and 10th in land testing for 2008-born
swimmers. Two swimmers were entered in the 2006-born class. Sasha Mantei was 11th for speed swimming and ninth in land testing, and Ava Allen was ninth in speed swimming and 10th in dryland. As for 2004-born swimmers, Rebecca Duncan was second in speed swimming and third in land testing, and Haley Copeland was third in speed swimming and second in land. The Mermaids have been able to continue to practise with up to eight swimmers at a session, as long as they follow current public health guidelines, but additional virtual competitions aren’t happening at this time.
Eight Bruins chosen for virtual Showcase The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) and SaskTel have announced that they will be hosting a virtual showcase on Jan. 29 and 30, and eight members of the Estevan Bruins have been selected. The SJHL recognizes that the supply chain for hockey players has not stopped as colleges are still looking to fill roster spots. This initiative has been created to help provide some added exposure for the young talents in the league. This will give scouts and fans the opportunity to familiarize themselves with some of the top players in the SJHL. The virtual showcase will include the top 80 players (four teams) in the SJHL as selected by the SJHL coaches committee. Each team will be created by Alex Watson and placed into EA Sports NHL 21, where the games will be simulated on PlayStation 4. The teams will include Global Ag Risk Solutions and Viterra teams for 16, 17 and 18-year-olds, and Sherwood and SaskTel teams for 18, 19 and 20-year-olds. Forward Cody Davis, 18, of Alameda is a member of the Viterra team, as is 16-yearold defenceman Owen Simmons, whose family moved to Estevan last summer so he could play for the Bruins. Also selected were 2003-born forwards Caelan Fitzpatrick and Keagon Little. Selected for the SaskTel team are 2000born defenceman Kade McMillen, who is from
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Carievale, 2000-born forward Eddie Gallagher, 2001-born forward Griffin Asham-Moroz and 2001-born defenceman Dayton Deics. Bill Chow, the president of the SJHL, said: “This is a great opportunity to provide some positivity and entertainment in what has been a difficult period of time for many of us. This event will provide some extra exposure for our athletes which will help scouts identify names of players that they should be watching.” SaskTel has committed to broadcasting the 2021 Virtual SJHL Showcase on Jan. 29 and 30. Each game will be broadcasted live on Twitch and SaskTel maxTV, which will include all the elements of a live game, such as play-by-play announcers, interviews, coaches, analysis, and live performances.
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January 27, 2021 A15
Flashback Wednesday, Jan. 27, 1993 Members of the Estevan Figure Skating Club performed well at 1993 Saskatchewan Juvenile Championships. Team members who competed were, back row, from left, Ryan Samenook, Chandra McNabb, Jodi Stephen, Nicki-Lee Simon and Shelly Bourassa. Middle, Nicole Stephen, Chelsea Thlevin, Jennifer Coulter, Tracey Donais and Jessica Coulter. Front, Chris Cozac and Jennifer Ng.
Unkempt property inspections accounted for most of bylaw officer’s activity level in 2020 Estevan’s bylaw enforcement officer was kept busy during the past 12 months, according to the report issued at the Jan. 19 meeting of the Estevan board of police commissioners. The figures showed that there were 1,173 occurrences for the bylaw officer last year; Special Const. Morgan Prentice, who was hired into the role in late February, handled the vast majority of them. A little more than half of the infractions, 591, were for unkempt property inspections. There were 259 unkempt property inspections in 2019. C o u n c i l l o r L i n d s ay Clark, who was at his first police board meeting, said one of the problems he has seen has been with vacant houses, and unoccupied homes become an issue again now that winter is here. “There’s nobody looking after them,” said Clark. “It just seems to be something that’s coming up with the snow, because you don’t notice until the snow comes, and then you see nobody has touched that house for quite
a while. I think we are going to have some issues with that, especially when we have more snow come.” Councillor Shelly Veroba, also participating in her first police board meeting, noted there are areas in the city where one person goes down the block and removes the snow from the sidewalks. Other blocks, including some on Fourth Street, can be daunting to walk on, she said, because snow hasn’t been cleared. Police Chief Paul Ladouceur said it can be tough to get into contact with the owners of the actual properties, because some don’t live in town. “ We ’ve b e e n f o r t unate so far this year that we haven’t seen a lot of snow,” said Ladouceur, who noted that Prentice has been very diligent. There were 67 notices for snow removal in 2020, including 47 in December. Residents have 24 hours to clear their sidewalk after snowfall. As for unkempt properties, enforcement is different.
There is a 14-day period to get the work completed after the first notice. Ladouceur said it’s standard across the province. Other frequent calls for Prentice in 2020 included
147 for animal calls, 248 for parking violations and 60 for cat traps. The meeting was also the first for the police board in several months, so they reviewed monthly reports
for crime numbers and bylaw enforcement figures from September to December. For more on the year-end crime numbers, please see Page A5. The members of the police board for this year are
Mayor Roy Ludwig, Councillors Veroba and Clark, and members at large Geoff Thiessen and Bernadette Wright. Ludwig and Wright are the only members back from last year.
Choosing a better approach Every organization is having difficulty making plans right now and that includes our Bible camp at Kenosee Lake. So, when our board sat down at their computers to talk about our vision for the future, I braced myself for a long and tense meeting. When you ask nine people for their opinion about what to do or what is most important, you can expect some disagreement. Throw in the fact that these people are on the board because they love the camp and have strong feelings about it, and you can imagine that we had a lively discussion, to say the least. When the meeting ended, I wondered, “How long will it take someone to email me and disagree with some of the decisions that we made?” As the chairman of the board, I get lots of emails, before and after every meeting, telling me how we could have done things differently. It did not take long.
21015ge0
The next morning, one of the ladies emailed the entire board. However, instead of complaining, her email was filled with sentences like, “James, I appreciate all the time you spend doing maintenance at the camp” and “Angela, your comments yesterday were great!” This lady addressed each board member by name and then complimented them. That was the entire note. No complaining. No lobbying. No criticizing. Just a simple, short, very specific note of encouragement for each of the other board members. When I read that, I smiled and thought, “That is what we can do for one another.” We can lead, lift, and inspire each other. We can focus on the many things that we appreciate rather than the few things that we dislike. Proverbs 11:25 states, “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Can we be generous with our love
Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ and our appreciation of others? More to the point, will you take thirty seconds right now and send someone a note? Your words will encourage someone else and they will change your focus as well. A world that is upset and arguing much of the time needs someone who will notice, and point out, something good.
SENIOR LIVING A16 | Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca
Envision extends Bridging the Distance program The Envision Counselling and Support Centre has announced it is extending a program that has proven to be valuable to seniors and others during the pandemic. “Sometimes you can’t talk to your family about these feelings,” says a woman Envision called Sarah, a 71-yearold who phoned into Envision Counselling and Support Centre through Bridging the Distance. “It was confidential. It was somebody I could talk to. Just a voice on the other end of the line. You don’t have to worry how they’re looking at you, how you’re acting.” A Weyburn resident, Sarah received counselling through Bridging the Distance program. She said talk-
ing to a local counsellor made the sharing easier. “It’s a hard call to make, but I thought, if it’s going to help, it’s well worth it,” she said. Sarah shared that since the lockdown began, her mild anxiety has increased, so much that the last time she saw a health worker, she felt like she was having a panic attack. She told her counsellor about what was happening and was given some tools to help cope with her feelings and some materials to read on her own. Sarah says it has made a big difference. She can go back and read her email and it helps her settle down. “Right off the bat, talking about it seemed to help. I just felt like…I can live again.”
Bridging the Distance has no cost attached, and the program expanded in 2021 to be available to people in more communities in the southeast: Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle, Oxbow and all rural areas in this corner of the province, right to the Manitoba border. “We’re trying to make adjustments to our services to help with the mental health crisis in our communities,” said Christa Daku, Envision Counselling and Support Centre’s executive director. “When people cannot leave their homes and connect with people as they normally have, they are at risk of greater issues, such as suicide or addiction. “I would say that there are so many in the same boat,
and we want to get the word out that help is available to them, just on the other end of the phone.” Individuals who are housebound, or those living with disabilities can now access Bridging the Distance counselling. “Starting in 2021, we are able to offer the program to those younger than 55 years who are shut-in or unable to leave their homes, due to health issues,” Daku says. The first phone call from Envision Counselling will be with an intake counsellor, who finds the best program fit for each issue by asking a few questions. From there, the Bridging the Distance counsellor will begin telephone support.
Sarah says her life has changed for the better since she reached out to Envision Counselling. “It’s a big decision telling people what you’re going through. If they could just realize there is help out there and make that first step, to make that call.” “But I think by telling
my story, it could help someone else and maybe they will realize they’re not the only one out there,” she said. In Estevan and surrounding area, call 306-6374004 for counselling or to make enquiries about local services. In Weyburn, call 306-842-8821, and in Carlyle, 306-453-2405.
Creighton Lodge residents have many reasons to feel blessed and loved by the community Submitted by Shelly Veroba I want to give you a monthly column that tells you about all the blessings 2020 brought to us. The past year gave us the blessing of family. Our family came to us in many forms this year. By telephone, Facetime, in person, hand-written notes of love and sometimes even through the screen of a window. We loved every minute we spent with our family and 2020 reminded us the importance of never taking for granted the moments we have together. We saw how
resilient and remarkable our family members can be in order to show us that we are loved. We love you too. We were blessed with friendships, some new and some are the long-time treasured ones. Leo Gress, Richie and Gail Mack, Lila Forseth, Denyse Hygard, Alma McGill, Raymond and Francis Mack, Doris Walliser and Mary Kowalski are the new friends we made in 2020. How scary it was for some of them to leave their homes in the middle of a pandemic and come to live in a home shared with 49 people. They all soon realized that a pandemic is much easier to
Trinity Tower has been proudly serving the community of Estevan by providing a friendly, senior living community for over 30 years!
get through when you can look outside your door and see your neighbour’s smiling face. We also made a few special friendships with people who came to the lodge in 2020 but ended up moving to a new home; Louis and Otilia Beaulieau and Sheila Lerat. We think of you often and hope you are enjoying your new friendships as much as we enjoyed getting to know you. Nourishment in the form of delicious meals was one of the blessings that helped 2020 not seem so long. Most days we are delighted with the meals prepared in our kitchen at Creighton Lodge.
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Sometimes they brought back memories of our younger days, with recipes that we prepared for our own families. Quesadillas was a dish that most had not experienced, but 2020 brought a Mexican supper enjoyed by many. (I want to say all but that would not be true). Lobster is a delicacy we serve annually on New Year’s Eve. Lobster is one of those dishes that could be compared to liver … You either love it or hate it, there is no middle ground. Our dining room is still split up with the social distancing rules and we look forward to a day when we can dine with a full table again, but the meals are delicious and prepared with love. What more could we ask for? Creighton Lodge has quite a few talented ladies in the kitchen and they all work so hard each day to make us happy. Lori Elliott, Jesse Hochstein, Shelley Hygard, Marcia Schmidt, Joan Fingler and Barb Taylor, you are all appreciated.
We didn’t have to wait for Santa this year to receive a gift. Gifts were bestowed upon us all year long in 2020. Most years we are thought of an average amount of times by the people who know us. This past year we were thought of daily by more people than we even knew existed. We received meals from local restaurants, handwritten notes of love, cards with pictures drawn by children to let us know we aren’t alone in this, donations of puzzles and books to keep ourselves busy, computers to help pass the time, an iPad to connect with our families, funds to help purchase cleaning supplies, masks and so many more things that were given to us to make sure we came out of 2020 with a smile on our faces. We want you all to know that it worked. We felt the love from our community and it filled our hearts, we are all still smiling. We were blessed with a safe home to live in that is maintained to the highest of standards by Warren Stubel. Warren is appreciated by ev-
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eryone at the lodge because he goes above and beyond every day to ensure we are safe. His family even comes on snowy weekend days to make sure we don’t slip and fall. We can’t say enough good things about Warren. The lodge has night staff that is here for us when we find ourselves wandering the halls unable to sleep. Leanne Naka, Marcia Schmidt and Tamara Johnson are the main night ladies. We appreciate that they work nights so we aren’t alone when we do wake up. They always are ready to put their tasks on hold in order to make a cup of tea or toast and talk with us until we feel sleepy again. We appreciate their kindness and friendship. We are looking to 2021 to be a year where we once again can safely hug a little tighter, kiss a little longer and talk a little more with those that we love. Life is a gift that is precious and we don’t plan to waste a minute of a great year. Happy new year to you all.
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Keep local restaurants on the menu with #FoodiesUnite It’s your favourite seat. Your Friday-night hang. Your go to for date night. That’s why we’ve started #FoodiesUnite to celebrate local restaurants and to encourage our community members to show them some support. You can get involved by ordering up some delicious food and tagging your favourite local restaurants using #FoodiesUnite. To further support our communities, Sysco will donate 50,000 meals to Food Banks Canada.* Because as our country’s largest food service provider, everything we do is for the love of food. Join the movement at:
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*Food Banks Canada’s conversion metric as of December 2020 is $1 CAD = 2 meals. Trademark of Food Banks Canada is used under license.
CLASSIFIEDS A17 | Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca Obituaries
Obituaries Leonard Miller 1924 – 2020
Lovingly Remembered Robert Martin Barry Rowat (1942 – 2021)
Leonard Miller, late of Lampman, SK passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at the age of 96 years. Leonard is survived by his loving wife Rita and their family: Daughter Shirley (Les) Dube Grandson Lionel (Wendy) Pouliot, Great Grandchildren Derrick (Amanda), Nicholas (Kelsey), Janelle Grandson Blair (Charlene) Pouliot, Great Grandchildren Brittany (Brad) Pylychaty, Amber (Jeremy) Freitag, Matthew (Tasha) Davis, Lauren Davis (Dustin Hammond) Granddaughter Shaelynne (Fred) Carson, Great Grandchildren Mackenzie, Kelsey, Rebecca As well as 8 Great Great Grandchildren. Son Marvin Miller (Sharon Malbeuf) Grandson Brian Howes (Tara), Great Grandchild Dorien Granddaughter Dezarae (Clayton) Marnell Son Randy (Sharon) Miller Granddaughter Tammy (Nathan) Grimes, Great Grandchildren Taylor, Kayla Granddaughter Amanda (Mike) Miller, Great Grandchildren Tara, Tristin Granddaughter Amy (Raymond) Veroba, Great Grandchildren Cody, Reegan, Walker Son Glen (Bernice) Miller Grandson Tory (Natalie) Miller, Great Grandchildren Reid, Everly Granddaughter Jillian Miller (Mike), Great Grandchildren Xavier, Noa Granddaughter Jennifer (Riley) Tetreault, Great Grandchild Hudson Daughter Carolynne (Art) Dutchik Grandson John (Christine) Dutchik, Great Grandchildren Hailey, Evan Granddaughter Christa (Robbie) Murray, Great Grandchildren Willow, Brooklyn Granddaughter Jena (Dave) Beisal, Great Grandchildren Cameron, Mya Grandson Cole (Flora) Dutchik Leonard was predeceased by his parents Roman & Marianna Miller; sister Tilly & Pete Lisafeld; nieces Mary and Lorraine; brother Tom & Susan Miller, nephew Larry brother Joe & Elaine Miller. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a Private Family Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows R.C. Church Lampman, Saskatchewan with Rev. Nestor Gregoire, OMI presiding. You may view a video recording of the Funeral Mass using the following link: https://vimeo.com/491764003/b4943607eb Interment took place at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish Cemetery, Lampman, SK. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan provided care to the Miller family - Deb Heidinger, Funeral Director.
Lillian Raiwet 1937 - 2021 Lillian Raiwet, late of Estevan, Sask. passed away at St. Joseph's Hospital in Estevan, Sask. on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at the age of 83. She is survived by her loving family: husband Gabriel; sisters Alyce Garratt and Irene Garratt; step-daughters Diana Raiwet (David Silversides) and their sons Ian Silversides (Miriam) and daughter Zoe, Eric Silversides (Eva); Sandra (Les) Holtz and their children Janet (Travis) Meyers and son Cooper, David (Stacey) Holtz and daughter Madison, Cheryl (Marcus) Delmaire and their children Jack and Rylee, Scott Holtz (Kristi Willock) and her son Jaken; Lorna Raiwet (Jeff Dzuba) and their children, Megan and Zane; Karen (Larry) Johnstone and sons Devin (Jade) Johnstone and daughters Sloan and Neve, Mitchell Johnstone (Jackie Myers), Nolan Johnstone (Emily McBean), Aiden Johnstone; Kathy Raiwet and children Carly (Kyle) McKee and children Lance, Valen, Ryder, Veronica Raiwet and sons Grady and Kipton, Eden (Duane) Rogers and sons Daxton and Hendrix, Addison Agnew; granddaughter Tania Raiwet and children Ashley, Jace, Kade and grandson Marcel Raiwet; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Lillian was predeceased by her parents Wayne and Louisa Garrett; son Neil; brother Edward and step-daughter Glenda Raiwet. Lillian was born in Estevan February 6, 1937 and lived on her grandfather’s property south of Estevan until her family moved into town when she started school. Lillian was the eldest of four children to Wayne and Louisa. She attended university and became an elementary school teacher, returning to Estevan to teach and then later teaching in Oxbow. When Lillian met and married Gabriel, she became a wife, mother and grandmother all at once. She found the greatest satisfaction and fulfillment in these relationships. Lillian was an active member of the United Church and the St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary. Her faith was very important to her and she loved being involved. Lillian was an avid quilter and belonged to the Quilters Guild participating in many group projects and conferences. The beautiful quilts are valued treasures of her family members. Lillian loved gardening and was surrounded by many beautiful plants. The abundance of flowers in their gardens attracted humming birds which gave her great joy. She also had a way of taking a plant that was not doing well and making it flourish. Lillian enjoyed baking and her grandchildren will tell you that she made the best cookies! Lillian was a beautiful and caring person who will be very dearly missed by her family and friends. She was very important to all of us and we are blessed to have had her in our lives.
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Barry Rowat announces his passing in Edmonton. Sad are the hearts that love you, silent the tears that fall, living our lives without you is the hardest part of all. You did so many things for us, your heart always kind and true and when we needed someone, we could always count on you. Barry is survived by his loving daughter Kim (Scott). Along with his daughter, Barry is lovingly remembered by his grandsons Ryan and Tyler, his brother Mel, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and relatives. Barry told many stories about growing up in Saskatchewan and working as an electrician for M&S Coal as well as the experiences of living overseas and working for Saudi Aramco. He was quickly recognized as a true professional, taking great pride in his work, and was always willing to lend a hand. When he returned to Canada, he worked at the Ekati Diamond Mine for many years. He will be remembered for his quick wit and teasing jokes that brought smiles to the faces of all he met. Barry enjoyed time with friends and family, always with a smile on his face, and a joke or two to share. He was an avid reader, enjoyed hockey, astronomy, watching documentaries, and loved traveling. Barry was predeceased by his wife Carol, son Jason, sister Joan Phair, and parents Vivian and Gray Rowat. ~Always loved, Forever missed, Never forgotten~ In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Barry to the University Hospital Foundation – Transplant Services at the University of Alberta Hospital. In loving memory of Clarence Howard Skinner Clarence passed away peacefully with his wife and daughter by his side, January 8, 2021 at the age of 82 at the Coronach Health Center. Clarence was born to Gordon & Ethel Skinner October 12th, 1938 at Lloydminster, SK. He had two younger brothers, Don and Stan. He attended school in Lloydminster, Wildwood, Coleville and Kindersley. Growing up watching and playing sports was very important to him. He enjoyed hockey, golf, baseball and curling throughout his life. Following school, Clarence went to work for Bill Dand Trucking. From there he moved to Estevan in 1958 to continue driving truck in the oil field for Ross Brothers & Sam’s General Trucking for many years. A job he loved doing. He met Karen (nee Cooley) in 1961 and they were married September 22, 1962. He did various jobs throughout his life besides trucking, clearing trees and moving rigs were a couple. Eventually, he had enough of the oil patch life and returned to Estevan in 1976 and began working for Manalta Coal. In 1984, he was transferred to Coronach coal-mine where he worked for many years. Following Clarence’s time at the coal mine in 1998, he went to Estevan and contracted till 2002. In the summer of 1998 he partnered with his son, Scott and bought the local laundromat and carwash in town and built it up and ran it together for 18 years. Clarence & Karen enjoyed much travelling through their years together and would jump into the motorhome when colder weather was approaching and head south for the winter and return in the spring. Clarence made friends wherever he went and leaves behind lots of people to treasure his memory. He will be missed Predeceased by father Gordon Skinner, mother Ethel Skinner, father-in-law Willard Cooley, motherin-law Sarah Cooley, brother John Frederick, sister-in-law Candace Skinner, grandson Michael, great-grand-daughter Blake. Clarence is survived by wife, Karen of 58 years and children: Dan (Cheri) children Carlee (Dean), Shawn (Mary Beth) Emma, Jenna (Tim); Scott (Denise) children Desiree (Chet) children Walker & Austyn, Caitlyn (Matt) daughter Abby, Logan (Jade) daughters Rayla & Alice; Susan (Harvey) McClelland children AJ (Liz) children Emerie, Michael & Peyton, Dylan, Lexi (Jean); Darren (Nancy) son Justin. A family celebration of Clarence’s life was held Thursday, January 14th at the Coronach United Church. Linda Kirby officiated. Scripture reader was granddaughter Desiree Marshall; musical tributes by grand-daughter Jade Skinner; urn bearer son Scott Skinner; tributes by In MeMorIaM Dan Skinner, Scott & Denise Skinner and Harvey & Susan McClelland. Interment at Coronach Cemetery. Donations in memory of Clarence can be made to the Coronach & Area Health Care Foundation. PO Box 150, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0. Expressions of sympathy for the Skinner family my be shared at rossfuneralservice.com Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service. Assiniboia SK.
In MeMorIaM
Thank You
Many thanks for the wonderful care Lillian received from St Joseph’s Hospital, Estevan Regional Nursing Home and St Joseph’s Special Care Home. A private family service was held at Hall Funeral Services in Estevan with Sandy Dalziel officiating. Interment in Souris Valley Memorial Gardens, Estevan. Those so wishing may make donations in memory of Lillian to Parkinson Canada – Saskatchewan, 2103 Airport Dr. Saskatoon, SK S7L 6W2 or St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation, 1176 Nicholson Rd., Estevan, SK S4A 0H3.
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FARMLAND WANTED CURTIS SLATER In Loving Memory of our Precious Son and Brother, Curtis who died in a work-related accident 16 years ago, January 28, 2005. Age 23 years. Someone we love has gone away And life is not the same. The greatest gift that you can give Is just to speak his name. We need to hear the stories And the tales of days gone past. We need for you to understand These memories must last. We cannot make more memories Since Curtis is no longer here. So when you speak of him to us It’s music to our ears. Forever in our hearts and always on our minds. We love you Buddy Hugs, Mom (Donna) and Dad (Pat) and sister Amber-Lee and family
I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISISONS
In Loving Memory of Robert Holden 1956 - 2020 A year has passed You’ve been missed. Your family was your everything. You were everything to your family! You will always be loved, remembered and deeply missed by Lori (Wife), Linda, Tommy, Whitney, Jonny, and their spouses,and your grandchildren
Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way. Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com
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
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306-634-2654
A18 January 27, 2021 Announcements
www.estevanmercury.ca
An accident and a noxious smell part of activity for local firefighters last week
Career OppOrtunities Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable. Clean drivers abstract a must.
HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS! The global COVID-19 pandemic means learning how to SPOT fake news has never been more important.
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
Protect yourself with media literacy in 4 simple steps. Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca
BELIEVE IT?
Do you want to put your pick up truck to work? Roadex is seeking 1 ton owners to transport RV’s throughout N.America. Class of license required depends on province. Subsidized health and dental insurance, competitive rates, fuel discounts. Driver must have valid passport, be able to cross the border, pass a drug test and must be 21 years or older. For more information about us, please visit our website at roadexservices.com. To apply please email resume and a current driver’s abstract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.
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
Announcements
Announcements
IN THE NEXT FEDERAL ELECTION: WE WILL RUN MPs ONLY IN THE WEST (None in the east)
MAVERICK maverickparty.ca
•
VOTE 'MAVERICK PARTY' & YOUR MP WILL ALWAYS 'VOTE FOR YOU!' (For a change)
Members of the Estevan Fire Rescue Service and other emergency crews responded to a report of a single-vehicle incident northwest of Estevan on Jan. 20. The rollover occurred on Highway 39 just west of Hitchcock. The report stated that there were four people in the vehicle and there were possible injuries. Firefighters assisted with the traffic control on scene and provided required
help to RCMP and EMS. “All the people were able to self-extricate from the vehicle and were … treated for injuries on scene by Estevan EMS. The vehicles were isolated, checked for leaks and then the scene was turned back over to RCMP services to further investigate the cause of the collision,” said Fire Chief Dale Feser. While there were no travelling restrictions in the area Wednesday afternoon, the road conditions weren’t
The Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division was ap-
proved for less than half of the funding for COVID, as the focus for COVID needs was narrowed by the Ministry of Education to cover costs for remote learning.
ApArtments/Condos for rent
HealtH ServiceS
By Greg Nikkel of the Weyburn Review
Primrose Chateau Residents of Primrose Chateau continue living independently; doing the things they love, while we provide the support to make it possible. During this time of isolation being in a safe environment with full services such as meals and social activities is very important for your health and well being. Please call to discover how our home can become your home. Atria Retirement Canada Sandy 306-850-1499
HIP/KNEE Replacement? 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.
Expert Help:
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Feed & Seed
www.primrosechateau.ca
Farm ServiceS
Integrity Post Frame Buildings SINCE 2008
SRI HOMES’ Estevan Facility SHELTER HOME SYSTEMS
Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More
is currently accepting applications for
PRODUCTION WORKERS • Required Immediately
Duties include:
• Assembling and installing modular components Send, fax, e-mail or drop off resume to:
faces and adjust your driving speed accordingly.” Firefighters were also called to a report of a noxious smell in a multi-family building in the north-central area of Estevan on Jan. 19 in the evening. Firefighters used the special equipment, and while they could sense the smell the devices didn’t pick up any out-of-normal readings. “We are just going to keep our eye on that,” Feser said.
Holy Family approved for COVID-related funding
Authorized by Chief.Agent@MaverickParty.ca
CAREERS
the greatest with strong winds, blowing snow and ice patches. “The roads definitely had some touchy spots. When we were responding, there was definitely quite a bit of side wind that was occurring … And we get patches where the snow would melt and then freeze to the highway and cause some slippery conditions there,” Feser said. “You definitely have to pay attention to the road sur-
sales@ Integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com
The update on the COVID funding was provided to the Holy Family board of trustees at their monthly board meeting on Wednesday evening, held via Zoom. Chief financial officer Lisa Wonsiak said Holy Family had applied for about $2 million in funding, and were approved for $858,000 by the ministry. In making the application for funding, education director Gwen Keith said they consulted with the staff of their schools first. “With the deployment of resources, we listened to the staff to find out their concerns and where the needs are, and how we could support our staff through COVID,” she said. Wonsiak noted that the application was first narrowed in its focus to $1.5 million, and for this round of funding, the ministry decided to provide funding to support remote learning, and for cleaning and sanitizing needs in the school facilities, including equipment and supplies needed for these areas. The funding will help pay for 8.4 hours a day for cleaning and sanitizing of school facilities, and for remote learning, they will have five full-time equivalent (F TE) teachers available. The smaller schools will have a shared teacher, and the larger schools will have their own positions. Holy Family was also able to add an IT assistant, to help their IT staff member with the added technology support required for remote learning, along with an ad-
ministrative assistant, and two counsellors. Keith said the hope is for the counsellors to be in the field soon to lend support to families and students. For mental health, Holy Family has a registered nurse consultant, Joan Pratchler, “on speed dial” to answer any COVID-related questions from any of the schools. In terms of equipment, there are also additional water bottle-filling stations being added, more smart boards, and digital library resources. Keith said the school division wanted to be sure that teachers are able to pivot to Level 3 or 4 if students have to be sent home for remote learning. At this point, all of the schools remain open at Level 2. “I have to commend our staff for putting this in order in January,” said Keith. There will be two more funding periods for school divisions, at the end of March and at the end of June, said Wonsiak, with the costs of substitute teachers one of the files they have to keep track of for the ministry. “ There’s no way we could have managed to do this without the extra funding,” said board chair Bruno Tuchscherer. “It’s ultimately about keeping the academic progress, and meeting social and emotional needs,” added Keith. “It makes our people feel like they’ve been heard.” “There’s no doubt some of the equipment we’re getting now will help us in the future,” said Tuchscherer.
Feed & Seed
Congratulations! to all student winners of
O
M
E
S
2020
150 students in southeast Saskatchewan developed & wrote about their business ideas, submitting them to the YouthBiz contest.
Winning Entries
1st Place: Anushka Raulji, Weyburn ‘Elite Academy Tutoring’ 2nd Place: Amy Gilliland, Carievale ‘Jewelry By Amy’ rd
3 Place: Payton Grad & Chloe Krienke, White City, ’Clayton Clothing Designs’
Achievement Award Winners
Kaitlyn Wild, Emerald Park - Social Responsibility Sailor Cowan, Carievale - Business Slogan Korbyn Kaufman, Radville - Effective Commercial Addison Laird & Winston Segeart, Radville - Creative Commercial Format
For more on the 2020 YouthBiz winners:
www.cfsask.ca/sunrise 2020 Sponsors:
Affinity Credit Union
SaskTel
Un service d'appels téléphoniques automatisés pour vérifier que vous êtes en bonne santé
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CROSSWORD ANSWER
H
SHELTER
Box 845 #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK S4A 2A7 Fax: 306-634-7597 jobs.shelter@gmail.com www.shelterhomes.ca
UARY ANNUAL JAN
CHEERS & JEERS
CLEASRAALNE CE
Cheers to the Estevan Mercury for publishing the Babies of 2020 special. It was wonderful to see all of the smiling babies throughout the six pages. Cheers to all of the people who were out walking this winter before the temperatures plummeted. If your new year’s resolution is to exercise more, it means you have to do something during the winter months. Cheers to the Estevan Humane Society for finding a way to host its annual Whiskers and Wine gala this year. It will mean a great meal for all of the supporters. Cheers to the number of topics that were on the agenda for Monday night’s meeting of Estevan city council. Hopefully we’re going to have more meetings like that this year, with plenty to discuss. Cheers to the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure employees who have responded quickly to keep our highways drivable amidst the recent adverse weather we’ve experienced. Cheers to all of the teachers for their resilience during the school year so far. It hasn’t been easy, but they’ve done all they can to teach our kids and keep them engaged.
Jeers Jeers to those who are unfairly targeting the energy sector with baseless criticisms. If you don’t like the oil and gas sector, then it’s also time to ditch all your products and services connected to oil and gas. Enjoy sitting in your nice, heat-free home. Jeers to whoever decided to dump trees on city-owned property last week. These properties are not your personal dump. Take your garbage to the landfill. Jeers to people who blow through fourway stops or who don’t understand how uncontrolled intersections work. It creates a hazard for everyone else on the roads.
To submit a cheer or a jeer, please email it to dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca, or visit www.estevanmercury.ca.
KEEP YOUR RIDE IN
Save on flooring, blinds & paint!
Estevan & Carlyle floorstoreestevan.ca
A19 | Wednesday, January 27, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca
Cheers
ON NOW!
Project teaches Hillcrest students about local artists A recent project for Hillcrest School’s Grade 2 class taught students about some of the artwork that exists in the community and the talented people who created these projects. Teacher Brian Hayes said the goal was to identify key pieces of art from around Estevan, and then have students reinterpret them in their own style. One day after school, Hayes went on a drive around the city, and took pictures of all the art he could think of. Among the highlights were the murals found on different businesses around the city, the Estevan Soldiers’Tree monument and other tree carvings, the sculpture out front of the Estevan Leisure Centre, the metal sculpture of band students between the Estevan Comprehensive School and Spruce Ridge School, and some of the art found around the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum. “I think I came up with 17 pictures for them to use for the project,” said Hayes. The students then traced
the lines of the pictures onto a transparency, and then Hayes photocopied the transparency to create a colouring page for the students. “They just used their own colours, and made it their own,” said Hayes. He was very impressed with how it turned out.When he looks at the pictures, he can see a little bit of Estevan, but he can also see the kids’ personalities shining through in the pictures, which is what he wanted. “It made for a lot of good conversation. I showed them the pictures and they said ‘I remember that” or ‘I know that,’” said Hayes.“They couldn’t always pinpoint where they saw it, but they knew they saw it around town.” Hayes has been living in Estevan for over a decade, and he finds that when these things are so ingrained in the community, you stop thinking about them or even stop appreciating them. Estevan is very rich in great artwork, and this project helped him to remember that.
The Grade 2 class of Hillcrest School recently worked on a project that celebrates local art, such as this installation in front of the Estevan Leisure Centre. Photo submitted
Real estate sales were up in Estevan for December and for 2020 Real estate agents in southeast Saskatchewan were busier in 2020 than they were the previous year. According to information compiled by Josh LeBlanc, a Realtor for Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate in Estevan, sales were up by nine in December, from four to 13, and the value of the property sold was $1.9 million, compared to $1.365 million the previous year. The median price dropped 13.3 per cent from $150,000 to $130,000. Fifteen New listings hit the market last month, which bring the total number of listings to 118, down from 148 in 2019. The average time spent on the market has climbed 10 days to 98 from 2019. Sellers were achieving 88 per cent of their asking price in December, which was up 10.84 per cent from 2019. Year to date numbers saw a stronger showing in 2020 than in 2019. The number of sales rose 62.4 per cent from 85 to 138. The total dollar value of property sold was up $10 million from $18.7 million in 2019 to $28.8 million in 2020. The median sale prices took a 10.5 per cent drop in 2020, with the median
dropping from $220,350 to $197,146. The total number of new listings in 2020 was down 6.1 per cent from 342 in 2019 to 321 in 2020. Listing inventory saw a 26.3 per cent drop from 195 in 2019 to 144 in 2020. Days on market stayed the same while sellers received 73.6 per cent of their asking price during the year. Sales in southeast Saskatchewan were up 200 per cent in December, going from 12 in December 2019 to 36 in December 2020, up 81.8 per cent from the five-year average (and 39.5 per cent above the 10year average). Sales volume in the region rose from $71.0 million to $92.9 million for the year. The number of new listings in southeast Saskatchewan fell 1.7 per cent in December, going from 58 to 57 (8.7 per cent below the five-year average and 7.9 per cent below the 10-year average). Active listings were down 22.7 per cent across the region (779 in 2019 to 602 in 2020). Inventory in southeast Saskatchewan stood at 16.7 months (which is 74.2 per cent below the level seen last year and
61.6 per cent below the five-year average), while the sales to listing ratio was 63.2 per cent, suggesting that market conditions favour sellers. Inventory in Estevan stood at 9.1 months (which is 75.5 per cent below the level last year and 78.5 per cent below the five-year average), while the sales to listing ratio was 86.7 per cent, suggesting that market conditions favour sellers. In 2020, homes stayed on the market an average of 105 days in southeast Saskatchewan, up 43.8 per cent from 73 days last year (and 7.1 per cent above the five-year average of 98 days and 10.3 per cent above the 10-year average of 95 days). Median home prices in the region for December rose two per cent going from $147,000 to $150,000 (9.7 per cent below the five-year average median price of $166,200 and 23.3 per cent below the 10-year average median price of $195,600). For 2020, the median home price in the region was $208,996, which is 7.1 per cent below the $225,062 price from the same time last year. For more information, contact LeBlanc at 306-421-6778.
TIP-TOP SHAPE NEW ARRIVAL
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ia Vargas Barragan Izel Victor Victor Vargas & Azu Barragan would like to announce their new baby girl, Izel Victoria Vargas Barragan Proud grandparents are Enrique Barragan & Victoria Nava (t2015) and Felix Vargas and Piedad Ramirez.
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Lucas & Heather Smyth (nee Pratt) would like to announce their new baby boy, Thomas Riley Smyth Proud grandparents are Candy & Brian Smyth(t2018) and Michael & Caryl Pratt.
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FREE ESTIMATES! Professional Installation Services 104 - Hwy. 47 S. Estevan, SK • 306-634-5588 Bay #1 - Hwy. 13 Carlyle, SK • 306-453-2519 www.floorstoreestevan.ca **ShopEstevan bucks can be redeemed at local participating businesses; Carlyle cash will be a gift certificate to a local business
A20 January 27, 2021
www.estevanmercury.ca
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 Stay Safe and Keep Warm. Enjoy the winter, hopefully spring will arrive soon. Save 2.5% in January by pre-paying your 2021 Property Taxes Taxes
The City of Estevan is offering a 2.5 % discount when you pre-pay your property taxes in January. Discounts are calculated based on previous years levy. Please pay the 2020 levy amount to take advantage of this discount. Payments can be made in person at City Hall or on-line through your personal on-line banking. Discounts will be calculated at time payment is processed. Please note: The discount is calculated on the municipal portion of your taxes only. As per provincial directives the discounts are no longer available on the school portion of your property taxes.
Bylaw
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.
AQUATIC SCHEDULE MONDAY LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM A.I.S 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM SURF & SWIM 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM PRIVATE BOOKING EVENING PRIVATE BOOKING LANE SWIM 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM TUESDAY LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM A.I.S 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM SURF & SWIM 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM PRIVATE BOOKING EVENING PRIVATE BOOKING TUESDAY LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM
FITNESS
ESTEVAN LEISURE CENTRE - 2021 EFFECTIVE January 4 February 14, 2021
A.I.S 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM SURF & SWIM 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM PRIVATE BOOKING EVENING PRIVATE BOOKING LANE SWIM 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM THURSDAY LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM A.I.S 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM SURF & SWIM 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM PRIVATE BOOKING EVENING PRIVATE BOOKING FRIDAY LANE SWIM 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM 7:00 AM - 7:45 AM 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM A.I.S 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
SCHEDULE
SURF & SWIM 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM FREE SWIM 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM *SPONSORED BY ESTEVAN LIONS CLUB * EVENING LANE SWIM 6:15 PM - 7:00 PM *NOT JAN 15, 29 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM *NOT JAN 15, 29 SATURDAY CLOSED AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 5:00 PM - 5:45 PM PUBLIC SWIM 1:15 PM - 2:30 PM 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM EVENING FAMILY SWIM 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM PUBLIC SWIM 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM SATURDAY CLOSED AFTERNOON LANE SWIM 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM 3:45 PM - 4:30 PM FAMILY SWIM 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM PRIVATE BOOKING EVENING DEEP WATER POWER 8:00 PM - 8:45 PM
PLEASE NOTE - Due to the pandemic-related protocols fitness registration has moved to a PRE-Registration process. Users must pre-register online- or the Information Desk. Patrons willregistration be screenedhas upon arrivaltoand asked a few questions PLEASE NOTE Duebytocalling the pandemic-related protocols fitness moved a PRE-Registration as per theprocess. Operational and Safety Guidelines. in isthe available for theDesk. weight room.will Space UsersHealth must pre-register online or byDrop calling Information Patrons be between screened workout upon stations have either increased or a amachine has been 'not in use.' Water not available. arrival and asked few questions as put per into the Operational Healthfountains and SafetyareGuidelines. Drop in is available for the weight room. Space between workout stations havetoeither increased or a machine has been put into 'not Schedule Subject Change. Please visit use.'areWater fountains Don’t see what inyou looking for? are not available. www.estevan.ca for updates on closures and Do you have an idea for cancellations. Proper footwear and exercise wear is something we should try? required to participate. Please note during school breaks, (Teachers Convention, Spring Break and Please contact the Program Christmas Break) Fitness, Aquatic Centre and Arena Manager at 306-634-1880.
ESTEVAN LEISURE CENTRE - 2021 EFFECTIVE January 4 - February 14, 2021
MONDAY SPIN 6:10 AM - 6:50 AM • 12:15 PM - 12:45 PM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM GRIT 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM EASY STRETCH 10:10 AM - 10:50 AM POWER BLAST 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM SPIN / CORE 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM TUESDAY SPIN 6:10 AM - 6:50 AM 9:10 AM - 9:50 AM • 10:15 AM - 10:55 AM 5:30 PM - 6:10 PM • 6:30 PM - 7:10 PM AQUA AWE 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
THURSDAY SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am • 10:15 am - 10:55 am 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am 9:15 am - 10:00 am • 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 6:00 am - 9:00 pm FRIDAY GRIT 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am EASY STRETCH 10:10 am - 10:50 am WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 6:00 am - 9:00 pm SATURDAY WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
WEDNESDAY GRIT 6:10 am - 6:50 am SUNDAY AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am SPIN 9:10 am - 9:50 am CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 am - 10:15 am 10:10 am - 10:50 am FOAM ROLLER 10:30 am - 11:10 am DEEP WATER POWER 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm POWER BLAST 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm WEIGHT ROOM SPIN 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm OPEN 9:00 am - 9:00 pm WEIGHT ROOM OPEN 6:00 am - 10:00 pm Mustbebe1616years yearsofofage agetotoparticipate participate in in fitness fitness classes Must classes and andhave haveaacompleted completedPar-Q Par-QQuestionnaire Questionnaireprior priortotoparticipating participatingin inclasses. classes. The questionnaireThe letsquestionnaire our fitness instructors determine abilitiesdetermine and needsabilities of each participant. lets our fitness instructors and needs of each participant.
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PLEASE NOTE - Due to the pandemic-related protocols fitness registration has moved to a PRE-Registration process. Users Schedule Subject to Patrons Change.will Please visit upon arrival and asked a few questions mustare pre-register Information Desk. be screened Don’t see what you looking online for? or by calling thewww.estevan.ca for updates on closures and as per the Operational Health and Safety Guidelines. Drop in is available for the Do you have an idea for cancellations. Proper footwear and exercise weight wear is room. Space between workout stations have either increased or a machine has been put into 'not in use.' Water fountains are not available. required to participate. Please note during school something we should try? breaks, (Teachers Spring Break andvisit Please contact the Program ScheduleConvention, Subject to Change. Please Don’t see what you are looking for? www.estevan.ca updatesCentre on closures and Christmas Break) Fitness,forAquatic and Arena Manager at 306-634-1880. Do you have an idea for Propervisit footwear exercise wear schedulescancellations. may vary. Please our liveandschedules at is We would love to hear your ideas! www.estevan.ca something we should try? required to participate. Please note during school breaks, (Teachers Convention, Spring Break and Please contact the Program Christmas Break) Fitness, Aquatic Centre and Arena Manager at 306-634-1880. schedules may vary. Please visit our live schedules at We would love to hear your ideas! www.estevan.ca