Estevan Mercury 20210310

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ESTEVAN MERCURY

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10, 2021

Flying over dry asphalt Music above limits. Lafrentz talks about pandemic opera performance.

PAGE A6

Welcome to Estevan.

New business joins the community.

PAGE A7

International Woman’s Day Ryan McIsaac, left, and Sebastian Murphy, who have been skateboarding all their lives, took advantage of unexpectedly warm weather on Thursday. As the sun was rapidly melting snow and ice in and around Estevan, asphalt behind the Estevan Leisure Centre was dry enough for young skaters to pull out their boards and start practising tricks. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Women of Estevan.

Celebration of outstanding local women.

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Curling forward.

Oxbow’s athlete plays for Team Saskatchewan at Scotties.

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Mayor Ludwig surprised by response to inviting Elon Musk to Estevan

By David Willberg

Estevan Mayor Roy Ludwig is surprised with the response from the public and the media since it was announced that the City of Estevan had invited famed entrepreneur Elon Musk to the Energy City to view the carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities in the area.

Musk, who is the founder of Tesla, Space X and other ventures, has been ranked as the richest person in the world. Earlier this year, Musk announced that he would provide $100 million to whoever came up with the best carbon capture project, which was the catalyst for the city to invite Musk here.

The world’s first fully inte-

grated and full-chain CCS facility on a coal-fired power plant can be found at the Boundary Dam Power Station, and it has captured more than 3.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide since it came online in October 2014. A carbon capture test facility can be found at the nearby Shand Power Station.

Musk, whose mother was born in Regina, spent a few weeks working on a farm in Saskatchewan when he was a teenager in 1989. He has yet to respond to the city’s offer, but Ludwig is optimistic the famed innovator will come.

Since it became public last week, Ludwig has been on the phone regularly, fielding calls from media outlets and others interested

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“His name causes a lot of conversation back and forth, and it’s been great the amount of feedback and discussion that this has caused in the last few days,” Ludwig told the Mercury.

Most of the provincial media outlets have reached out to him, and he has also had calls from reporters elsewhere in Western Canada.

The publicity alone has been good to highlight the fact that the city would like to see the Shand Power Station and Unit 6 at the Boundary Dam Power Station retrofitted with CCS technology, which Ludwig said would be more A2 » CARBON

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Council receives update on water main breaks Water main breaks are a common occurrence in Saskatchewan communities every winter, but Estevan has had a higher number of breaks than normal every winter.

Estevan city council received an update on the issue in a presentation from city safety co-ordinator Helen Fornwald on Monday night.

Fornwald said that when a water main break occurs, they want to make sure they have the parts to fix it. If they do, they get to work. If they don’t have the parts, then they try to set up a temporary water source.

But in the case of the break on Perkins Street in early February that resulted in a boil water order for south Estevan, the issue was with a main transmission line.

“It affects a great part of the city,” said Fornwald. “As we know, the whole south side was affected. We were very fortunate to have the parts in place, and we worked around the clock to get it fixed.”

City crews had to dig six feet across in frigid temperatures with equipment that was

freezing up.

“I believe they did record time with that. Is it an inconvenience when people are without water for 24 or 48 hours? It sure is,” she said.

While the city will have water main breaks in the winter months, Mayor Roy Ludwig said there have been more than normal. He cited several shifts from frigid temperatures to above-zero warmth in the first two months of the year.

The transmission break on Perkins occurred after the temperature went from above zero on Feb. 2, to -30 C with the wind chill the following day.

“The piping under the ground shifts a lot, and that’s the problem we face,” said Ludwig.

The cost of a water break varies. The dig for the major line on Perkins will be fairly significant. A lot of the breaks in residential areas are smaller and require less time.

And there will also be the cost of the asphalt patch later this year once the weather conditions permit a repair.

When there is a water

main break or an emergency, Fornwald said the city works with the local media to get the notice out to the public, and Rebecca Westling, the city’s destination marketing communication consultant, gets it out on social media.

Fornwald noted the city has an emergency reference guide that was sent out to all homeowners a few years ago, and Saskatchewan Public Safety has an information brochure in case people are without power or water for 72 hours, or if they’re evacuated for that amount of time.

There is also a small sticker for those with pets in their home.

“Anyone who has pets can put this on their front door or their window, so in the time that there’s an emergency, our Estevan Fire Services knows if you’ve got pets in the house that not only are we going to try to save everyone in the house, but pets as well.”

In a time of a fire, people want to get out quickly, but they might not be thinking about pets.

People should be ready

The City of Estevan has had a higher than normal volume of water main breaks so far in 2021. File photo for 72 hours without electricity or water in the event of a disaster.

Councillor Rebecc a Foord wanted to know if the city had approached Realtors in the city to provide a pamphlet to newcomers so they know the plan for the city.

Fornwald said they don’t, but she said it was a great idea.

“I believe this is a really

valuable piece of information, because it doesn’t cite just one situation, it covers everything that can potentially happen that we can be faced with in an emergency in our community,” said Fornwald.

The city has four meeting sites in the event of an evacuation: the Estevan Leisure Centre, the Estevan Comprehensive School, the Estevan

Church of God and St. Paul’s United Church.

Information on emergency or evacuation order, emergency instructions, emergency kits and emergency plans can be found on the City of Estevan’s website under the Emergency Planning section.

It also includes details on what to have for a home or vehicle kit.

Carbon capture and storage receiving lots of attention « A1 affordable than the retrofit of Unit 3 at Boundary Dam. “A lot of people are phoning and asking about

CCS, and what does that mean,” said Ludwig.

The mayor noted that a prominent Canadian businessman with a private jet

has offered Ludwig use of that jet if Musk wants Estevan’s mayor to travel to the U.S. for a visit.

“He said he would pick

Cares Join us as we recognize the groups in our communities that go above and beyond to make our world a better place.

me up with his private jet in Estevan, and fly me wherever Mr. Musk … would be, and fly me back. I was pretty impressed with that

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Warm Welcome Estevan

offer,” Ludwig said.

Ludwig stressed a faceto-face visit with Musk would not happen until the restrictions on non-essential cross-border traffic are lifted.

People who Ludwig has spoken with locally have also supported the campaign.

The Estevan Chamber of Commerce, the economic development board, the local media and others have all done their part in getting the word out.

“It’s just a case of our community coming together and trying to do what’s best for the community. It’s nice to see,” the mayor said.

The city would love to have Musk come and tour Boundary Dam and Shand, as well as the local coal mines, and to put a positive light on what they’re doing here from an environmental perspective. The city wants to see CCS technology further deployed, because it would sustain a lot of goodpaying jobs for both SaskPower and local coal mines.

“I think us, as local politicians, have to work very hard through our MLA, through our MP, and all of the groups that I’ve mentioned, such as the chamber and the economic development board,” said Ludwig.

Response to recent column

Rhonda Bramham and Gloria Lainton at the Warm Welcome Kitchen at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Many in the Estevan area know the Warm Welcome Kitchen provides hot, delicious and free meals twice a week for people in need.

But meals haven’t always been its focus.

Warm Welcome started in 2012 as a shelter, providing a place to stay for the homeless in the community during the winter months.

Not only was it a refuge for those who couldn’t afford a place to live, but it was a needed service for those who came to the community to work but couldn’t find a home at a time when Estevan had no available rental properties.

But in the fall of 2017, Warm Welcome pivoted, and switched its shelter to a community kitchen, where people come to enjoy a hot meal and fellowship.

“When the shelter opened, Estevan needed a shelter,” said Warm Welcome Kitchen board chairperson Wendy Godfrey. “But when that need slowed down to nothing, and someone suggested doing these meals, I think it was a great move.”

They often attracted more than 50 people a week for the free meals. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Warm Welcome shifted again. Twice a week, they could pick up the ingredients for a good meal from the Estevan Salvation Army’s food bank, and take them home to prepare for supper.

Warm Welcome has modified its program this year. People pick up a prepared meal at Trinity Lutheran Church on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and take it home to enjoy.

“I think the average is around 60 (people each time). We’ve had as many as 70 people come out,” said Godfrey.

Early this season, they would get around 40 people a meal, but those numbers have been growing, and on March 4, they had 77.

Godfrey is surprised with the number of people they have served each night.

It shows how much people appreciate the kitchen’s program.

“We’ve had some lovely comments, some thankful comments from people who are just so happy that they can have this outlet.

Even though it’s a take-out meal, it is something you go out to get, and so you can have some socially distanced words at the door.”

People are also pleased to be able to stretch their food budget with one or two free meals a week, because money is tight for many due to COVID. Christa Jorgenson is the cook for the shelter and continues to do an “amazing” job of preparing meals for clients, Godfrey said. But they have a backup cook for the first time in Donita Bjorndalen. Her support allows Warm Welcome to be open in the off chance that Jorgenson can’t be there for the night.

“In the past, if something happened that was unavoidable, we had to cancel meals, and that’s the reason we looked for someone who could do backup for us. We don’t want to ever cancel a meal if we could help it.”

St. Giles Anglican Church would traditionally be the other site for the kitchen, but St. Giles has stairs, and it’s a little easier for Warm Welcome volunteers to not have to run up and down stairs with the present format.

The Warm Welcome Kitchen is scheduled to wrap up for the season at the end of April.

The Estevan Mercury is sincerely sorry if some readers were hurt by an opinion piece about body positivity, published in last week's edition of the Mercury, as it was not the intention of either the writer or the Mercury.

The only goal was to promote a healthy lifestyle that lowers the risk of potential health issues. While the statistics weren't included in the write-up, it went by data, terms and recommendations published by the World Health Organization.

The piece was written out of love and care about the wellbeing of all people. However, it wasn't directed towards any particular individual and wasn't meant to offend anyone, and rather was aimed at provoking a discussion and stimulating readers to choose or keep choosing towards a healthy lifestyle.

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Hospital auxiliary makes final payment on long-term care beds, thanks to ongoing community support The St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary is well known for its diligent efforts to fundraise for much-needed medical equipment at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Thanks to the support of the community, they have been able to pay off their latest ambitious project, and they did it in prompt fashion.

Auxiliary treasurer Darla Wilhelm and president Marlene Shurygalo presented a cheque for $85,057.20 to St. Joseph’s Hospital board chair Don Kindopp and chief executive officer Greg Hoffort on Friday afternoon at the hospital.

With the payment, the hospital auxiliary has now paid off the 38 new beds that it purchased for the hospital’s long-term care ward in 2019.

The beds had a total cost of $255,057, but thanks to the support of the community, the auxiliary was able to pay for those beds in approximately two years – an impressive feat for the volunteer organization.

“These ladies are amazing,” Kindopp told the Mercury.

“They’re such an important part of St. Joe’s Hospital and the community. They’re such hard workers and they’re so dedicated.”

After taking on the project, their first payment came in May 2019.

Even more impressive is they were able to do it in the midst of a pandemic, which forced the cancellation of the auxiliary’s annual spring and Christmas tea and bake sales in 2020.

Wilhelm said they were able to pay for the beds so quickly due to some donations that have come in, including an anonymous contribution.

“The community has been very generous in supporting us.

With the ticket sales we had with the raffle we had last year during COVID, we did very well with that,” said Wilhelm.

“That was our main thing.”

The auxiliary also received allocations as a member agency

St. Joseph’s Hospital CEO Greg Hoffort, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary treasurer Darla Wilhelm and president Marlene Shurygalo, and hospital board chair Don Kindopp participate in a cheque presentation from the auxiliary to the hospital. for the United Way Estevan.

The auxiliary didn’t make big payments at first, with installments at roughly $30,000 each, but they had some money in their account at this time, and so they decided to pay off the balance on the beds now.

Kindopp said these beds

create more comfort for residents. Bed sores are a common occurrence in long-term care facilities, but with these new beds, the problem is less prevalent.

“It enables the workers to be more efficient and to work with the patient easier, because of the design of the beds,” said

Kindopp.

The previous beds dated back to when the hospital opened nearly 30 years ago.

He expected it would take about three years for the auxiliary to pay off this project, rather than two, especially given the current economic climate.

Kindopp believes the auxiliary’s success reflects the confidence the community has in the members.

“Besides the work that they put in to gather these funds, it also demonstrates the generosity of the people who support the auxiliary in this area.”

A decision hasn’t been made on the auxiliary’s next project for the hospital, but they will be given a wish list soon for equipment that needs to be purchased.The hospital will buy the equipment, and then the auxiliary fundraises to pay it off.

“We’re looking forward to taking on another project,” said Wilhelm.

And their ability to pay for such a large project shows that they can continue to be ambitious in their efforts to assist the hospital.

The auxiliary hasn’t been able to have its regular membership meetings, but it has been able to have executive meetings to discuss and make motions.

Carnduff & District Music and Arts Festival board invites students to showcase their talents

By Ana Bykhovskaia The Carnduff and District Music and Arts Festival found a way to showcase talented kids of the southeast.

While the traditional format of the annual festival, with over 60 years of history, wasn't an option due to the current restrictions, the board concluded that the online setup wouldn't work out as well. Carnduff doesn't have a strong reliable Internet service, so online adjudication wasn't possible.

So instead, the board agreed on providing a platform for all of the talented kids in the southeast to showcase their musical skills and progress throughout March.

"We explored ideas for how to showcase music and give our kids an opportunity, and we came up with the idea of a showcase, in which parents submit a video. They create a video of their kids' performance and upload it (online and tag the Carnduff & District Music and Arts Festival Facebook page). That way we get parental permission because they're doing it," explained Pamela Dmytriw, who is the president of the music festival committee.

They request that the participants put the proper name of the piece that they

are performing and give credit to the composer or author of the lyrics while publishing the video. It's preferred that parents share the video with the festival committee.

The success of the showcase will depend on the activity of students and their parents.

"We actually won't know who is submitting necessarily.

Anyone in the area is eligible to submit. They do not necessarily have had to perform in our music festival before. It is completely reliant on people choosing to post when they do," Dmytriw said.

Each week they are doing a draw for a prize. Anyone who participates that week will be entered to win a $25 local gift certificate. The draws will be done every Sunday in March.

Besides, they had some sponsors who still wanted to provide monetary donations. So the music festival committee will get some prizes and will enter all participants for the last big draw at the end of March.

If participants want to submit multiple pieces, they are encouraged to spread them out over the month to be able to participate in multiple weekly draws.

"Students feasibly could enter four pieces in four different draws plus the end one,"

Dmytriw explained.

Once parents post the video of their child performing on YouTube or Facebook and tag the Carnduff & District Music and Arts Festival Facebook page, the committee will see the submission and share it through their social media.

The first week of March already brought in a few entries.

Dmytriw said that it's always a bit slower in the beginning, but it should get more active.

"The beginning of March is always a little nervous …

I anticipate that most of the students out of the ones that are actually taking lessons right now will perform. It's a little less nerve-wracking when you get to perform for a camera than when you get to perform live, so the kids are a little bit more willing to do it," Dmytriw said.

Students can perform in any discipline. Dmytriw point-

ed out that it is nice too because there are some students who may be good in speech arts, but they've never participated in that area because the school doesn't offer it, for example.

This time kids can showcase their skills in anything from speech arts to vocal, from musical theatre to instrumental, as well as piano, strings, guitar, etc.

"We definitely are willing to have any piece be celebrated," Dmytriw said.

Jaxon Hardie plying Full-Time Fun by Jennifer Eklund. Printscreen of YouTube

"We believe that the music is meant to be celebrated and enjoyed. And we wanted the kids to be able to find a way to do that this year. We welcome entries from anywhere in the southeast. They don't have to have participated in our festivals before. We look forward to just being able to celebrate the goodness of what the kids have been able to do this year, and hope they find joy in it."

Kali Chomyshen playing Feelin' Blue by Jennifer Eklund. Printscreen of YouTube

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Conditions of editorial and advertising content: The Estevan Mercury attempts to be accurate in Editorial and Advertising content; however, no guarantee is given or implied. The Estevan Mercury reserves the right to revise or reject any or all editorial and advertising content as the newspaper’s principals see fit. The Estevan Mercury will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of an advertisement, and is not responsible for errors in advertisements except for the space occupied by such errors.

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Fight for equality will never end When it comes to the fight for gender equality, we’ve seen considerable progress made, but there is still a long ways to go.

Thankfully, nobody would now go as far as to question whether women should be in the workforce, or whether they should have the right to vote. The days of those ideas being tossed around are thankfully over, and it’s hard to believe that a little more than 100 years ago, women did not have the vote in Saskatchewan.

But there are many people who question whether women should be in certain professions. They believe women shouldn’t be in politics, or law enforcement, or the legal world, or in industry. They’ll say that women have no place in the business world, and they shouldn’t be on the boards of a big, powerful business.

They’ll say there are jobs that are for men and jobs that are for women, and that’s how it should always be.

And if a woman wants to get into one of the jobs in a male-dominated industry, then she shouldn’t make as much money as a man, and the men should be able to harass her and shun her, causing her to quit and look for work elsewhere.

(Most of us might scoff at such a mentality, but such people do exist, and there are more people with these archaic attitudes than sensible people might think).

The reality is that women can work in any sector, and can do a damn good job at it, too.

The problem isn’t that they want to work in certain areas, the problem is with those who think women don’t belong.

Most men have been very accepting of women in their workplaces, but there are still those who aren’t.

March 8 was International Women’s Day. Every year it’s a chance to reflect on the strides that have been made and the efforts of those who have come before us to create opportunities, but also the extensive work that remains, and how to gain that equality.

It’s an opportunity to celebrate the women in our lives and all that they have done for us.

And it’s a chance to honour the great women we have in our community, not just the high-profile women in positions of leadership, but those who do so many great things in their jobs and by volunteering in their communities.

Hopefully, one day, women won’t have to wonder why they make less than men, when they are doing the same job, have the same qualifications and boast the same level of experience.

Hopefully, one day, they won’t have to be sneered at by peers who think they have no place in their profession.

Last year, Lampman’s Mary Anne Veroba

wrapped up a lengthy and successful tenure as the chairperson of the board for the Saskatchewan Hockey Association. She was the first female chairperson in the history of the organization, which is more than 100 years old.

She reflected when she first became president in 2013, when she said she hoped the day comes in which it’s no longer a big deal to have a woman as the chairperson of that board.

There are women chairing other boards who are thinking the exact same thing.

We’re fortunate to have our Women of Estevan/International Women’s Day special in the Mercury in March. It features profiles of so many women in our community. There are women who work in a variety of sectors, including some in professions that have not traditionally been open to women.

And it seems like there’s a representative from every different organization in the community.

It shows how women are making an impact in all sectors of our community and our region.

It shows how many strong women we have in the southeast.

It shows how much progress has been made.

But we all know a lot of work still remains.

Many colours of the Saskatchewan winter The weather in Saskatchewan often becomes the topic of many conversations. From never-ending winds to second summers, from summer tornadoes to snowstorms, from flooding rains to exhausting drafts and 45 C burning heat to blinding fogs.

Saskatchewan climate has four seasons, which are pretty distinctive, but they still vary from year to year.

So when the temperature goes above 10 C in early March, I can't help but smile.

Really warm and sunny days feel like a surprise gift at the end of winter. The warm wave Estevan experienced lately saw many people enjoying the first touches of gentle sun rays. They were even more pronounced after the severe cold vortex that paralyzed this corner of the province in February. And they definitely felt like an undeserved treat since the calendar hasn't even made it to the spring equinox.

Not only the weather was playing its tricks this past few days, but Estevan's setup also made it even more interesting, as on the first weekend of March local people had a chance to enjoy a wide variety of activities all within a 20-kilometre range. Kiteboarders were trying their gear out at the Boundary Dam that they were sharing with those fishing from boats, all while ice fishers still were appreciating the last days of the winter season out at the Rafferty Dam. But as much as this heat was appreciated, I took it with a grain of salt, especially keeping in mind the funny Saskatchewan weather calendar circulating on the web and suggesting that it's only the "fool's spring" that we are seeing.

As much as I wanted to believe that the

dirt and fill up the dugouts, helping farmers make it through the season.

But this winter felt very different. It took forever to start, but once it started playing out Twenty Lines it also wasn't going according to a script.

About…

An enormously long and really tough cold streak followed by an unexpected heatwave winter was over, previous experience suggested and a lack of snow in the area turned it all into that I shouldn't put away the winter jackets. something a bit worrisome.

I landed in Winnipeg for the first time on The Saskatchewan Water Security AgenMarch 8, quite a few years ago. My first home cy recently released its updated spring runoff in Canada was in the small town of Boissevain, report for March 2021, and the situation in and all I could see on the three-hour drive our corner is definitely not the best, as most there was snow. The snow was everywhere of the far south, including Estevan and other from the highway to the horizon. The Prairie communities nearby, is anticipated to receive a setup wasn't helping much. The snow was in well below normal runoff with conditions here the ditches and on the few trees. It was blowing being classified as particularly dry. over the highway and packed on the driveways.

So while this pretty unique warm wave Further travels to Saskatchewan didn't felt great, a pile of snow covering the area bring any different experiences. It was all would feel even greater in the long run, as it about snow. would help with saturating the soil ahead of I was told that it would melt soon. seeding.

That year snow in Saskatchewan finally I'm pretty sure we'll still see a few more melted in May, and the last patches of it hid- weeks of winter here with well below zero ing behind the buildings made it into the first temperatures and hopefully some precipitation. days of June if my memory serves right. Even I want to believe that it won't last too long, and though winters were a bit shorter since then I will soon turn into memories about another actually grew some patience for them. Besides, crazy Saskatchewan winter. living in the sunshine capital of the sunniest But one thing I know for sure, a bit sooner province offsets the winter challenges. or a bit later, but the cold days will be over, and Saskatchewan is known for its winters, the spring is just around the corner waiting to which usually last for about four to six months. assert itself. It's this time of the year. It's almost They bring a lot of joy to those involved in all here. We have to brace a little bit longer, and kinds of winter sports. we'll see the first flowers popping up on flower A few snowstorms traditionally covering beds all around Estevan, adding colours to the the area on a few occasions throughout the yellow, white and black winter-style life of the winter supply a good level of moisture in the Energy City.

Ana Bykhovskaia

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David Willberg Willberg’s World

It’s been 365 days of Groundhog Day Some people will tell you the last 360-some-odd days have gone by incredibly slowly. Others will tell you they’ve gone by very quickly.

I’ll argue for the former. The last year has been a blur.

Not that any other year hasn’t been a blur in my life, or most people’s lives.

But it’s gone by so quickly because we haven’t had the milestones along the way, those occasions that we would normally get.

Sure, we’ve had some big things happen despite (or in spite of ) the pandemic, but many of the things we were looking forward to weren’t able to happen during the past year.

As far as those community events that we associate with a certain time of year, in most cases, they didn’t occur, or they happened in a very different format. And so certain things sneak up on you during the year.

At times, it’s felt like 365 days of Groundhog Day, both personally and professionally. Some really cool things have happened in my life. Some great things have happened professionally. We’ve been able to fill each paper each week with engaging local content, which isn’t always easy.

But at least we haven’t had to resort to using just press releases, COVID updates and other drivel with non local specifics.

I’ll admit that I was dismissive about COVID-19 right up until about March 15 – a couple of days after the lockdown began. I made wisecracks about it. I jokingly tried to sell a bottle of Purel for $20. And even on March 1, I never imagined we’d find ourselves in this situation.

By the time March 16 rolled around, I knew this was going to be something that would affect every aspect of our lives, regardless of how many cases we had here.

We hear all of the health experts talk about COVID fatigue. By March 20 hit, I was sick of hearing about it. And I’m sure I’m not the only one.

A year ago, we really knew nothing about this virus. It was new. It originated in an area whose government is not known for its transparency. (Note: I’ve met some great people who are Chinese, or are of Chinese descent. Not all people support China’s government. It’s been sad to see the violence directed to so many of Chinese descent for something that’s not their fault).

We had to go into the full lockdown a year ago. But I’m glad Saskatchewan didn’t return to lockdown in late 2020 or early 2021, even though we had many more cases in the second six months of the pandemic than the first six months.

And I get the frustration of people down here. I can’t say for sure, but my guess is that South East Zone 4 – which includes Estevan and is one of the most populous sub-zones in the province – likely has the fewest cases per capita of any of the 32 Saskatchewan sub-zones over the past year.

I get there would be risks with inconsistent regulations.

If South East Zone 4 gets reduced restrictions because we’ve had fewer cases, then we’ll have more people coming here from elsewhere. And it can take the wrong person coming here to create a significant increase in cases.

So while our case numbers remain low, we still have to be smart and vigilant.

I feel terrible for those who have lost a loved one because of this virus. No matter what we’ve been through over the past year – and so many people have lost so much – nothing’s worse than losing a life due to COVID. And while most of the fatalities due to COVID are in the over-70 crowd, a lot of people who have died with COVID still had years ahead of them.

I certainly hope that we’re in the homestretch, that the different vaccines will do what they’re supposed to do, that they will be effective as the virus continues to mutate, and that we can return to a semblance of normal sooner rather than later.

I look forward to taking photos without masks, to telling people to stand shoulder to shoulder, and to covering the myriad of events that have been part of our community for so long.

Hopefully, that day is coming.

Until then, it’s going to be more Groundhog Days.

Letter writer responds to column in last week’s Mercury The editor: I admit that I sighed rather deeply after reading last week's article on body positivity. Not because I doubt the author's good intentions, but because I'm fat, and I've been down this road before.

We fat people know we are fat.

Our doctors finger wag at each appointment and chalk every complaint up to our weight. Strangers peer into our shopping carts and pass judgment on the contents. Every fat joke on tv is a dagger to the heart, every diet ad a twist of the knife.

Clothes don't fit us, chairs aren't made to hold us, and we are reminded constantly that when it comes to the societal ideal, we simply don't fit. It's demoralizing, and it doesn't do anything for our health – physical or mental.

The body positivity movement was borne out of a need to fight back against these biases. Recognizing that obesity is not a moral failing and that we can love our bodies for what they are gives us the strength to fight. We can then wage war on anti-fat biases, and address root causes such as genetic factors, food insecurity, addiction, mental health, mobility issues and lack of access to care.

In 2020, the Canadian Association of Bariatric Surgeons and Physicians published updated guidelines for addressing obesity, focusing more on health and quality of life, and working to address anti-fat bias in the medical community. These changes would not have been possible without body positivity; it took millions of overweight people fighting to be valued as individu-

Time to lift restrictions The editor: Let’s follow the Texas governor’s lead and end any and all restrictions that have been put in place because of Covid.

You must realize by now the damage being done to our economy, our children, our seniors and the general public.

The “models” that your experts are providing you with, using the words may and could, are simply only true in media hype. The advice the so-called experts have given has caused far more dam-

age to society than COVID ever could.

No where in the world have I seen reports of a D6 cat digging mass graves because of COVID. But I can guess that social services may and could be busy for years dealing with the damage caused to our youth and general population.

Rules such as locking seniors up in nursing homes without support of loved ones, while allowing staff to go home to family, or forcing cancer patients to take treatments while their husband or

wife sits in the parking lot are some of the things your experts are telling you to force on your citizens?

You can go to a restaurant with your aging parents, but they can’t come over to see the grandchildren?

Please step up and lead us out of this mess as other leaders are starting to do.

George Foord Macoun

Keystone XL is worth fighting for The editor: On March 4, 2019 – an election year – Prime Minister Trudeau stood and emphatically stated, “I will always fight for Canadian jobs.”

Recently, the Canadian government was formally notified that U.S. President Joe Biden would cancel the Keystone XL expansion project. The government has since communicated they will accept the president’s decision and will not fight to change his mind on a key campaign promise.

Ask yourself: does the action match the rhetoric? And would the prime minister take a different approach if this project were in Ontario or Quebec?

Meanwhile, the NDP outright celebrated the end of the project.

Construction of the Keystone XL expansion should be a top priority for

Canada-U.S. economic relations. It is critical to North American energy security, will have a tremendous employment impact north and south of the border and has garnered significant indigenous support. Environmentally, Keystone will reach net-zero emissions when it first turns on and will be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

Now is the time for our nations to strengthen our trading relationship, not erect further barriers to collaborative and sustainable development.

Saskatchewan’s priority is to continue advocating for our interests with the new administration, including protecting the important trade and export supply chain between our nations and strengthening North America’s energy security.

The Nekaneet First Nation in southwest Saskatchewan showed its belief in

the project by purchasing an ownership stake in the pipeline that would cross through reserve and non-reserve lands.

This project would secure future financial stability and growth opportunities for the people of Nekaneet, and our government will continue to support investments like this for the Nekaneet First Nation, and for all the people of our province.

We will continue exercising our contacts in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the continuation of this project that clearly benefits both of our nations. It is unfortunate that our Prime Minister, the one who will “always fight for Canadian jobs,” is hesitant to do so if those jobs are in Western Canada.

Doug Steele Cypress Hills MLA for the Sask.

Party

Estevan Comprehensive School will have all students in class every day The Estevan Comprehensive School is returning to Level 2 of its COVID-19 plan.

There will be no more A or B groups for students.

All students will be expected to come to class every day, starting on Thursday.

Students will still be expected to follow procedures, which means wearing masks at all times, except for eat-

ing and drinking, along with social distancing and eating lunch in their p.m. classroom or leaving the school for lunch.

The school had shifted away from Level 2 in midNovember, when the provincial government announced that Saskatchewan high schools with an enrolment of at least 600 students would have students in classrooms

on alternating days. The measure was taken due to rising cases of COVID-19 in Saskatchewan.

Students in Group A would be in class one day and learn from home the next, and those in Group B would learn from home while Group A was in the classroom. Group B would have in-school learning while Group A is learning at home.

At the time in which high schools moved to Level 3, the province noted that COVID-19 transmission was low in schools.

Since the Saskatchewan Health Authority started disclosing the number of cases in schools last November, there has not been a case of COVID diagnosed at the Estevan Comprehensive School.

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als with complex medical backgrounds, instead of just numbers on a body mass index chart to make it happen.

Body positivity isn't about ignoring good health. It's about the strength to thrive in a world that values thinness and traditional standards of beauty and maybe change the conversation around what constitutes ideal size. It's not just daring to wear a crop top or ignoring the scale. It's about advocating for our health and discarding toxic dieting culture. Most importantly, body positivity is about knowing that our value as humans is not based on our waistlines, and that we are entitled to the same dignity and respect afforded our thin friends.

Jane Howard Estevan

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Former Estevan resident showcases her singing skills once again while pursuing master’s degree Avery Lafrentz’s most recent opera performance was a unique and challenging experience, but it once again showcased her range and musical skill.

The former Estevan resident is currently studying at McGill University in Montreal as she continues to work on her master’s degree. Her most recent production saw her play The Governess in Opera McGill’s production of The Turn of the Screw, an English opera

by Benjamin Britten. She was selected after a virtual audition process that took place in June 2020.

“This opera recounts the story of a young and innocent governess employed at a secluded country manor as acting guardian to two orphan children,” Lafrentz said in an email to the Mercury. “She begins to encounter ghostly reincarnations of a former governess and valet, who she believes are re-

turning to corrupt the children in ways that remain unclear to the audience.”

The majority of The Governess’ time is spent probing the reluctant housekeeper for information about the past and obsessing over the felt presence of the former governess and valet. The character creates an increased sense of duty in a time of utter upheaval, both emotional and mental, after she is informed both the governess and valet are deceased.

“Through each scene we begin to question the good intentions behind the Governess' behaviour towards the children and housekeeper. She views herself as the heroine, even if the audience may not. After putting immense expectations on herself she begins to crumble under the weight of her task.”

The Turn of the Screw was performed on YouTube on Feb. 27, and many people from Estevan signed on to watch the

livestream.

“In addition to my surprise, I was also touched that so many people used their Saturday to check out the opera and support what I've been doing out east,” said Lafrentz.

The process of auditions, rehearsals and performance all occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an experience unlike anything she has been through before.

“The mechanics of the rehearsal process remained the same with the addition of masks, Plexiglas walls and disinfectant protocols. We were further apart than pre-COVID rehearsals,” said Lafrentz.

The director used Zoom to call into rehearsals and staged the show from his home 142 kilometres away.

“We were very lucky to have Patrick Hansen (director) and Stephen Hargreaves (conductor) devise a way for us to even put on an opera during the

Avery Lafrentz city-wide curfew in Montreal,” she said.

“Their leadership and perseverance are what made this entire production happen. I am very grateful to everyone involved with the entire show for their willingness to participate in difficult circumstances. I can't believe it actually happened; the odds were so against us.”

The production was rehearsed and filmed during the Level 4 - maximum alert pandemic restrictions, which included an 8 p.m-5 a.m. citywide curfew. The Government of Quebec allowed, if necessary, for student attendance in labs or classrooms for practical training on specific equipment, should a program or the competencies to be developed.

They were able to create and perform this production in the Schulich School of Music's Pollack Hall because McGill University has designated music ensembles as labs. Government regulations for personal protective equipment were closely observed and followed from the rehearsal room to hall.

Lafrentz said she is certain she will look back on this opera as one of the formative experiences of her musical life.

“It was very taxing to emotionally portray a woman living in isolation and fear in the

midst of our global pandemic.

The music itself is incredibly complex and non-intuitive, but the real effort was allowing this character's pain and anxiety to enter my own life during our time filled with uncertainty.”

The performance was part of the completion of her master’s degree at McGill. Lafrentz will be graduating this term.

“It has been surreal to finish this degree; it has been a long-term goal of mine for years.”

Lafrentz has started a small voice studio through Zoom and is excited to be exploring the musical development of singers of all ages and styles. Right now, she is able to teach all across Canada, provided singers are interested in online learning.

“After all, I came into music as a musical-theatre lover and surprisingly found myself in opera, but I hope to continue performing in many styles.”

Energy transition leading to small modular reactors

By Brian Zinchuk, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA) Society Saskatchewan held what it called a “dinnerless dinner” online on Feb. 26, with its focus on the development of small modular reactors in this province.

Three speakers addressed the topic, and other sources of energy, during the online event, with Dean Reeve and Robin Woodward speaking on Transform Saskatchewan’s Stranded Assets – profit from the Climate Economy, and Howard Schearer speaking on The Promise Small Modular Nuclear Reactors Offer Saskatchewan.

The event was moderated by broadcaster Costa Maragos.

Small modular reactors have been touted as a possible option for future power production in the Estevan area.

Reeve is a retired utilities senior executive, formerly with TransGas, SaskEnergy and Atco while Woodward is the principal with RW Consulting, a Reginabased consulting firm focussed on alternative energy development, agriculture and municipal policy and growth. Shearer is chief executive with Hitachi Canada. He pointed

out he was speaking on his behalf, not his company’s.

Reeve said that energy transition is nothing new. Heating your home in the 1880s on the prairies was a lot different than today.

“We can all agree it was a completely different world, 140 years ago from an energy perspective,” he said.

“In those 140 years, society has experienced some fundamental energy transitions that have greatly impacted our daily lives. Our great grandparents or our grandparents saw the transitions from wood and coal to electricity and propane and natural gas to energize their homes and their businesses, and of, course, petroleum products for transportation purposes.

“And they greatly expanded their work productivity by moving from oxen and horses, to steam engines and then diesel-powered engines. These energy transitions occurred for many reasons, through innovation and new technology, and economic drivers making new energy choices more available, and more affordable.

“So while for current generations, energy transition is relatively new, for our ancestors, it was something they experienced and embraced, to really improve their human condition.”

He said the energy transition

occurring now is gaining so much attention because “how it improves the individual human condition is maybe not quite as evident as when propane or natural gas was available to remove the need for gathering wood or going to the coal bin for fuel, or how obvious the improvements were to productivity, when you move from the horse and oxen, to the steam engine and the diesel engine.

“This transition is being driven by an environmental need to reduce greenhouse gases and slow the pace of climate change.”

He noted that windchills of –50 C in February make it “hard to drum up a very serious conversation about global warming.”

Thus, many people wonder how energy transition will improve their daily human conditions and economic prospects, Reeve said, noting it often it becomes a heated and polarized conversation.

“It's often expressed in terms of are you for or against fossil fuels? If you're for fossil fuels. you must deny the impact of greenhouse gases on climate change and not care about the environment. If you're for zero emissions and renewables, you must be against any kind of fossil fuel future, and our own prosperity.

“Like many things today these polarizing transpositions fail to

21032ge0

recognize the realities and merits of both positions. Look at the recent example of Regina city council in the discussion of eliminating advertising on city-owned buildings by fossil fuel related companies. Talk about a polarizing conversation.”

He pointed out almost 85 per cent of primary energy consumption in the world today comes from fossil fuels, which means almost all the energy growth since 1900 has been made up by fossil fuels. “I don’t see this as an either-or conversation.

The world will need all these energy forms to meet its energy needs,” he said. But that doesn’t mean the energy mix won’t change.

“If natural gas is a ‘bridge fuel,’ it’s going to be a very, very long bridge.” Reeve said. He pointed out the ultimate goal is to reduce emissions, not eliminate fuel choices.

“The key energy transition is technology improvement and innovation. It's not about a single silver bullet solution. We must use the right energy for the right purpose right place, right time.”

He said, “The solution to energy transition is a portfolio approach, no single fuel or technology will manage to replace the 85 per cent of world energy consumption satisfied by fossil fuels.”

This includes improving energy efficiency. He pointed out that since

the late 1980s, a typical home went from using 150 gigajoules for space and water heating to 100 gigajoules now.

Additionally, distributed energy production and sharing are real options today. Reeve pointed out Lumsden uses solar panels to power its wastewater treatment plant.

“The technology focus and advancements in carbon capture will also be important to reduce emissions from fossil fuels.”

Hydrogen may be a solution for the energy needs of heavy-duty trucking, he said. Japan “is clearly moving towards an economy fueled by hydrogen,” he said.

In Saskatchewan, there is the potential for small modular nuclear reactors forming part of the electrical generation mix.

Reeve noted the possibility of growing trees as a way to deal with carbon pricing.

“Industry energy producers, agriculture, communities, individuals and governments at all levels must avoid the trap of polarizing positions and must seek opportunities in this new energy dynamic,” Reeve said.

“Just like many of our ancestors who came to this prairie land in the 1800s, we are all interested in how we can use this energy transition to improve the human condition of our families and our future generations.”

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New business that indulges children’s learning is coming to Estevan this spring Estevan's business community is welcoming a new addition to the family.

Regina's Karen Mah chose Estevan as a location for her second Inspiring Young Minds to Learn store, opening this spring. The new store will provide a big variety of supplies for funny and exciting early learning, helpful for teachers and parents alike.

The Mercury spoke to Mah about her business and her plans for Estevan, which appeared to be a great location, since it is pretty much in the middle for many surrounding southeast communities. Besides, Mah has family in Estevan, so she had some understanding of the area.

The new store will open at 1209 Fourth Street, which was previously the office for the Buffalo Party of Saskatchewan during the provincial election. The business owners signed a lease in early March, and are starting to set up the store. There is currently a banner with contact information on the window, but the business owners soon will put a full storefront up.

Mah said she assumes it will take about six weeks to clean and organize everything, so they will be ready to open around the end of April.

Inspiring Young Minds to Learn offers a wide variety of early learning games and supplies. Photo submitted "I'd say it will be six to eight weeks and we'll be up and running in Estevan," Mah said.

The Estevan location will offer a lot of learning resources available for parents and teachers.

"We are going to have things that teachers are going to need in the classroom and items that parents could use at home with their kids.

Lots of sensory items, etc.,"

Mah said.

Inspiring Young Minds to Learn stores provide supplies for elementary school, which is usually suitable for pre-school to Grade 6 students. " We h a ve d i f f e re n t building toys and games, just different things where they are learning through play," Mah said.

She opened the Regina store back in 2018, and it's

been going really well ever since. Back then one of her friends mentioned that a store owner was retiring, and alongside other teachers, she was concerned about where to get good supplies for classes, as she was a teacher herself. Mah has been in retail her whole life, and she ended up purchasing the store and getting pretty deep into early learning. Now not only does she run the business, but she also decides on what products to bring.

The store supplies a lot of pre-school and kindergarten-age games and learning tools. Besides they have a good variety of activity options.

"There will be a great selection for sure," Mah said.

The Estevan store will be smaller than the one in Regina, however, Mah said she knows how to maximize the space to fit more product in. Besides, there will be an option to order stuff online with a pick-up in Estevan.

Mah plans to employ three people at Estevan's location. She also will be driving to the Energy City on regular basis.

"I'll be in Estevan probably six or seven days a month," Mah said.

"We are really excited to come to Estevan. We are excited to bring some things

Karen Mah is opening the Inspiring Young Minds to Learn store in Estevan – the second for the company.

Photo submitted out there that people may not have an opportunity to see hands-on. So we are excited about that," she added.

Inspiring Young Minds to Learn aspires to make learning a fun-filled adventure in the classroom and at home with the toys, tools

and resources found only at the store. Kids young and old will have a blast learning about arts and culture, science and language, life and technology with their supplies. More information can be found at www.inspiringyoungminds.ca.

DOING BUSINESS IN ESTEVAN

Why CCS needs to be part of Saskatchewan’s Power Future Last week, Mayor Roy Ludwig sent an invitation to Elon Musk to come to Estevan to visit SaskPower’s carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility at the Boundary Dam Power Station. Mayor Ludwig’s invitation has brought to the forefront the importance of CCS technology, not only for the City of Estevan, but also for Saskatchewan’s future of power generation.

An economic impact study that was released last year, predicts 350 total job losses following the closures of Units 4 and 5 at Boundary Dam power station. The study indicates 100 jobs will be lost in mining and 50 will be lost in utilities, with another 200 projected lost jobs throughout the city as a result. Estevan’s GDP is also expected to be reduced by $200 million per year.

The new Inspiring Young Minds to Learn store will be located at 1209 Fourth Street.

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A CCS power plant is capable of producing reliable and cost competitive electrical power, a fact that can be found within various studies and annual reports. Subsidization by government can be reduced or eliminated, while power production for renewable power generation has been, and will continue to be subsidized for a period of time. It is expected that by the time a third generation of carbon capture projects takes place, subsidization will not be required or desired. The recent White Paper issued by the CCS Knowledge Centre also indicates that tax credit systems are another tool that can be unleashed to support climate targets.

Basic mechanical/chemical problems that surfaced early on in the BD3 model were addressed quickly and a second generation capture system that uses steam to run the capture unit saves a lot of dollars with an improved efficiency rating. Currently, there are at least 17 carbon capture projects operating or under construction world-wide, including five using coal for front end use.

With the help of our community rallying around this world leading technology, along with interest from key organizations and business leaders like Elon Musk, our city is hopeful that decision makers at the provincial and federal levels will notice and pay attention to the success of the current CCS facility and invest in the future of Estevan.

To learn more about the campaign to invite Elon Musk to the City of Estevan, visit www.estevaneconomicdevelopment.ca or check out our social media pages by searching for Estevan Economic Development on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn

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Hospital foundation offers residents to Egg their Yards in support of healthcare

By Ana Bykhovskaia The St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation has found a new way to make Easter more exciting for younger Estevan residents, all while raising some funds towards their annual Radiothon for Life.

They have teamed up with Kristen O'Handley and Erin Wagstaff at Royal LePage Dream Realty to Egg Your Yard – a fun initiative that will see the Easter Bunny secretly delivering eggs to the community.

"This Easter season, we will offer the opportunity for you to support our hospital and receive your very own Easter egg hunt in your backyard in return," says the foundation's website.

Usually, the foundation doesn't do any fundraising around this time of the year, but this time they decided to shake things up.

"We met up with the team to think of something that we can do around Easter … We thought it was a really great opportunity leading up to the radiothon to offer something to do that the city hasn't really seen before.

So we thought what's a better way to celebrate Easter and also to support the hospital than doing an Easter egg hunt throughout the entire city," said foundation executive director Breanne

Van de Woestyne.

The eggs will be delivered on April 3 between 8-10 p.m., when the Easter Bunny will visit Estevan.

"Our team will secretly come into your yard, hide some Easter eggs and then leave a note from the Easter Bunny himself in your mailbox. On Easter morning, you and your family will be treated to a backyard Easter egg hunt to celebrate."

Eggs will be filled with small toys or candies. People living out of town can order their Estevan loved ones' yard to be egged. They also have the cards personalized, so kids would know who they can thank for inviting the Easter Bunny over.

Unfortunately, the team won't be able to egg yards outside of the city limits. However, they can arrange the eggs and card in a package for pickup so that people could set up the egg hunt for their families themselves. For that, residents just need to select pick-up option on

the registration form. Packages will be available for curbside pickup on April 1 at St. Joseph's Hospital.

Those that select this option will be contacted by email with further instructions leading up to the pick-up date.

Van de Woestyne said that the response so far has been incredible.They plan to egg about 70 houses, and they only have a few spots left.

"If anyone wants to register, I recommend registering quickly … It's going to be a busy night for us, but we are excited."

Each egg hunt of 25 eggs costs $30. People can also purchase multiple quantities of 25, and the money raised will go towards the Radiothon for Life.

Payment can be done by credit card, cheque or e-transfer. For details or to register call the office at (306) 637-2474 or go to www.sjhf.org/egghunt.

Van de Woestyne also noticed that this fundraiser showed how many people have moved to online registration. She also pointed out that people choose to order one or more baskets, depending on how many kids there are in the family.

The Radiothon for Life will run on May 26 from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. with a donation drop-off tent set up outside of the radio station’s office. The foundation is still finalizing some further details.

The Mercury welcomes a new student writer Hello! My name is Olivia Grandy. I am delighted to be working as a student intern at the Estevan Mercury.

I’m grateful for this opportunity to gain experience in the field of journalism and meet some extraordinary people in the southeast corner along the way. Who knows?

I might even meet you!

I am currently a Grade 12 student at Oxbow Prairie Horizons School. I take pride in being an active student. I am a leader of the Student Representative Council and Students Against Impaired Driving. Before the pandemic, I ran cross-country and track and field.

I have competed at the provincial level in both.

I consider myself to be the result of a collective upbringing. I’ve had the privilege of growing up on a grain farm south of Glen Ewen with my family. I have also been fortunate enough to travel throughout my childhood. Consequently, I feel I’ve developed a rich curiosity for the world around me, both locally and abroad. I have a passion for local agriculture and industry, along with international issues.

I enjoy working as a lifeguard

Olivia Grandy is a new student writer for the Estevan Mercury. Photo by Starr Mercer Photography and a swimming lesson instructor at the Oxbow Swimming Pool during the summer.

In my spare time, I love writing and reading all levels of news and media. I had three pieces published in Windscript Magazine by the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild in 2019. When I’m not writing, I enjoy running on gravel roads, playing guitar, cooking and hanging out with my dog Tori.

I look forward to serving you in the southeast corner!

Positive numbers for local real estate in February The Saskatchewan real estate market continues to build on January’s momentum and outperformed last February, according to information from the Saskatchewan Realtors Association (SRA).

Across the province, sales were up over 74 per cent from last February, and were up 62.3 per cent year-to-date, going from 663 to 1,157. New listings were essentially flat in February, and down 2.1 per cent year-todate, going from 1,775 to 1,773, and the median sale price was up close to three per cent, and up 1.9 per cent year-to-date, going from $265,000 to $272,000.

Inventories were also down in all 19 of the markets that the SRA tracks.

Median sales prices were up in 13 of the 19 markets that the SRA tracks, with Estevan and Weyburn seeing the greatest increases, and the number of sales was up in 18 of 19 markets.

“We’re seeing inventories

dry up as people keep buying.

At the same time, the number of new listings continues to fall in several markets, suggesting that supply is shrinking,” said Chris Gbekorbu, economic analyst.

This suggests that prices will continue to rise as fewer homes are available and buyers are forced to increase their bids to secure what’s available.

As prices continue to rise, however, the SRA is also seeing the number of new listings rise in certain markets.

“Rising prices could help to encourage would-be sellers, who having seen homes jump in value last year, don’t want to miss out on rising prices this year,” said Gbekorbu.

The safety precautions that the SRA put in place last April to help reassure the public that real estate is safe have certainly helped to channel pent-up demand from COVID and allowed the real estate market to continue its boom.

Sales in southeast Saskatchewan were up 64 per cent, going from 25 in February 2020 to 41 in February 2021, up 53 per cent from the five-year average and 25.8 per cent from the 10-year average.

The total number of sales in Estevan rose 30 per cent, going from 10 to 13, and rose 266.7 per cent in Weyburn, going from three to 11. Sales in Estevan were 38.3 per cent above the five-year average and 7.4 per cent above the 10-year average, while they were 83.3 per cent above the five-year average and 20.9 per cent above the 10-year average in Weyburn.

Year-to-date sales in the overall region were up 36.4 per cent over last year, going from 25 to 41, with year to date sales in Estevan rising from 18 to 21, and 14 to 18 in Weyburn.

Sales volume in the region rose 142.9 per cent going from $4.0 million to $9.7 million in

2021 (60.8 per cent above the five-year average and 29.2 per cent above the 10-year average).

Sales volume in Estevan rose 53.7 per cent – $3.0 million to $4.7 million in 2021 (32.2 per cent above the five-year average and 3.2 per cent below the 10year average), while it increased 437.1 per cent in Weyburn, from approximately $600,000 to $3.2 million (92.0 per cent above the five-year average and 35.9 per cent above the 10-year average).

Year to date sales volume in the region rose from $10.0 million to $16.2 million in 2021 (an increase of 61.1 per cent), with Estevan seeing a 53.7 per cent rise and Weyburn seeing a 28.6 per cent increase in the year-to-date sales volume.

The number of new listings in southeast Saskatchewan was flat at 86 (1.4 per cent below the five-year average and 17.5 per cent below the 10-year average). The number of new

listings in Estevan was down from 17 last year to 16 this year, while in Weyburn, new listings decreased from 24 last year to 19 this year.

Active listings were down 22 per cent across the region, from 776 in 2020 to 605 in 2021, down 22.5 per cent in Estevan from 142 to 110, and down 29.5 per cent in Weyburn from 176 to 124.

Inventory in south east Saskatchewan stood at 14.8 months, which is 52.5 per cent below the level in 2020 and 48.3 per cent below the five-year average), while the sales to listing ratio was 47.7 per cent, suggesting balanced market conditions.

Inventory in Estevan stood at 8 1/2 months (which is 40.4 per cent below the level last year and 59.7 per cent below the five-year average), while the sales to listing ratio was 81.2 per cent, suggesting that market conditions favour sellers.

Inventory in Weyburn

stood at 11.3 months (which is 80.8 per cent below the level last year and 78.5 per cent below the five-year average), while the sales to listing ratio was 57.9 per cent, suggesting balanced market conditions.

In 2021, homes stayed on the market an average of 122 days in southeast Saskatchewan, up 10.9 per cent from 110 days last year (and 2.9 per cent above the five-year average of 119 days and 17.1 per cent above the 10year average of 104 days).

Homes in Estevan stayed on the market longer than homes in the larger region at 127 days on average in 2021, but also up from an average of 86 days last year and 21.2 per cent above the five-year average.

Homes in Weyburn stayed on the market longer than homes in the larger region at 163 days on average in 2021, but also up from an average of 29 days last year, and 28.8 per cent above the five-year average.

Estevan Market Mall presents your

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Estevan Bruins

No School Day Workshops | March 19, 22 | Ages 6-10 | 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm | $10 per child

Chase the Ace Fundraiser Every Friday @ 8:15 The Beef Bar

I Am a Leprechaun | March 12 | Ages 3-5 | 10:30-11:30 am or 1:00-2:00 pm | $5 per child

Cooking on the Prairies | March 26 | Ages 3-5 | 10:00-11:00 am In Partnership with Estevan and Area Literacy Group

Estevan and District Music Festival

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Estevan OTS has a new presidents and makes changes to the structure of its executive The Estevan Oilfield Technical Society (OTS) has announced changes to the structure of its executive that it expects will help with succession planning.

The OTS has traditionally had a president, vicepresident, treasurer, secretary, past-president and board members.

Now there is a president, with Tony Sernick occupying that role since late January.

Carl Henneberg is the treasurer, and Conrad Meili is the past-president. Meili had been the OTS president for about five years.

The president takes care of matters such as hosting the annual general meeting, and overseeing the events that are transpiring and other initiatives, such as the scholarship and the lobster trailer.

Now they have chairper-

sons for each of their three main events, and two members at large. The chairperson of their largest event, the Oilmen’s golf tournament, is Ashley Domes. Meili said that role is equivalent to the vice-president.

The next in line is the chairperson of the open bonspiel, Sam Bakala, and the chairperson of the trap-shooting event, which is Jordon Blanchette.

“Every two years you move up the ladder of roles,” said Meili.

The two members at large, Aiden Hagel and Josh Biggs, will participate in the committees for all of the events, and then move into the ladder structure of the board of directors, starting with the trap shoot.

“We set a two-year term for each of the roles, and a big

part of that is sustainability.

We have to continue to allow people to jump into the organization, see a path forward where they can contribute and be a part of its growth and success,” said Meili.

Meili had been president for five years, and there wasn’t a clear exit plan for him to depart the role. “ When you’re taking on the responsibility of all of those leadership roles, then maybe it becomes a little more work than the next person wants to take on,” said Meili.

Once someone is finished their term as past-president, they could start over in the cycle again, or move onto other initiatives within the OTS. “I think it will work great. There’s an inherent value in doing a job where you know the next person

to do it is right there beside you. You have a tendency to leave things in good shape knowing that you’re working with the person who’s there,” said Meili.

Sernick described his term as president as being very good thus far.

“Conrad did it for five years. He came in and really organized the organization, and transitioned it,” said Sernick. “I was the secretary and I moved into president, and it’s been fairly easy. We’ve all been around each other.”

Sernick had been involved with the OTS since 2012.

He’s looking forward to seeing the OTS get more involved with the Eli Mandel Park next to the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum, especially since there are some tributes to Estevan’s energy

The Saskatchewan Coal Transition Centre has been busy since it opened in early January, as director Craig Johnston has been meeting with those affected by the shift away from conventional coal power.

The transition centre, which is a joint project between the United Mine Workers of America Local 7606 and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW ) L ocal 2067, provides miners and coal-fired power generation workers in Estevan and Coronach with career training, business, retirement and mental health support – areas that Johnston said are important.

The federal government is supplying funding through the Coal Communities Transition Initiative. Johnston’s office is located in the Southeast College’s Estevan campus.

“We’ve had a lot of active participation by the guys,” said Johnston. “They’re obviously motivated to see this happen. So it’s been busy.”

It’s been tough to have people drop by and talk to him at his office in the Southeast College’s Estevan campus due to COVID-19

restrictions. And he hasn’t been able to go to Coronach to meet with workers out there.

“It ’s mostly been by phone and by email, but people drop by,” said Johnston.

He estimates he will meet with about a dozen people each week. The discussions often depend on the ages of the people he meets with.

“Obviously the older ones are more interested in retirement planning and stuff like that, while younger ones more so are into career planning. We’re also looking at working with the Canadian Mining Association on a certification program to get a lot of the guys skills and experience, for example, on some of the heavy machinery, and getting them certified.”

A lot of them have the decades of experience, but don’t have the paper to say they’re officially qualified.

Labour Market Services and the Southeast College are also involved with the certification process.

“We’ve had some of our guys, as a matter of fact, help out with their heavy equipment operator program that’s starting up,” said Johnston.

Most of the clients thus

far are from Estevan, he said, but that’s because it’s easier for people here just because the centre is based out of Estevan.

He hopes that as COVID restrictions ease, there can be a greater presence in Coronach.

The transition centre will have its first event, a virtual session, on March 22 at 6:30 p.m. Saskatchewan author Allan Kehler will give his presentation Mental Health: It’s Time to Talk.

“There’s all this uncertainty with coal miners and

guys in the industry, and it’s causing a lot of strain.

It’s not just with the miners and things like that in terms of career. It’s also affecting families, and they identified that this mental health issue was one that they figured was important and wanted to address.”

It’s been the transition centre’s top priority to help the workers deal with this “unfortunate, uncertain situation.”

They hope to have more seminars in the future, but that would depend on CO-

New OTS president Tony Sernick roots in the park.

The OTS gives people an opportunity to get involved in the community and to partner with different groups where the events take place. And they get to donate back to the community.

“It’s a starter into work-

ing with other groups and getting to know the other people in the city. It’s a diverse group of people that covers all aspects. It’s good to hear and good to talk to and get involved in everything that is in Estevan and southeast Saskatchewan,” said Sernick.

VID-19 restrictions. They’ve talked to the Canadian Credit Counselling Society to have a seminar on financial education, covering such topics as retirement planning, debt, drops in income and temporary unemployment. Another presentation would be from Labour Market Services on identifying skills, skill transferability, and identifying gaps in abilities that could be

addressed in training.

There will also be a seminar with Southeast Business Start Up, as some local miners have voiced an interest in potentially becoming entrepreneurs.

The Saskatchewan Coal Transition Centre also has a website now up and running, and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for people to reach out to him.

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A10 March 10, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

Estevan library invites people to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and other activities

By Ana Bykhovskaia The Estevan Public Library (EPL) has many exciting promos and programs coming up in March, and they’re turning to a new way to promote their activities.

They have started announcing their news through monthly podcasts published on YouTube and shared through their website and social media. The month of March will bring a lot of activities and options to get engaged for the Estevan community.

As of this week, the library started its St. Patrick's Day program.

"It's basically come celebrate St. Patrick's Day and Irish culture for the entire month of March. So, any patron that checks out an item about St. Patrick's Day or about Irish culture or Irish experience will be entered into a draw to win an Irish prize," said branch manager Jason Redshaw.

"There will be two prizes, one for adults and one for children. Each prize will become a surprise; we are not giving it away yet."

To be entered into the draw, people can

check out a movie or a book relevant to the topic any time in March. Anything Irish-related will work, patrons just need to let the library staff know and they will enter people into the contest.

The contest will run until March 31, and the draw will take place early April.

The EPL is also running a Leprechaun Traps program, which will start on March 11 for all ages. It's a take and make initiative also dedicated to St. Patricks' Day. The patrons will need to supply the base of the trap, which is just a box, and the library will supply the decorations.

"It's a fun family program where all family can do, and it's just something that a family can take out," Redshaw said.

They are also doing a Teens Create: Spring Garland on March 16, which is also a take and make, in which teens will learn to create different garlands.

"There are still some kits available for that, and kits will be available for pick up Sunday, March 14," Redshaw said.

In general, the EPL programs are currently getting close to being full or are full. Redshaw pointed out that it took some time for people

to get used to the online format, but they are currently seeing more interest and hope that it will keep growing as they implement various incentives to stimulate people to sign up with the library.

"We've been doing a circulation contest.

So anybody who comes into the library and checks out an item gets placed into a draw. And that's for a $20 gift card from a local business," Redshaw said, adding that the contest runs every month.

Besides, they have a new card membership contest. Anybody that comes in to make a new membership, or a person that recommends someone to get membership gets entered in a draw as well.

"So if you have a family member or a spouse and they don't have a library card, bring them out into the library and you also will be entered into the contest," said Redshaw in the March podcast.

A gift basket of books will serve as a prize for this contest.

The EPL is currently handing out snowshoes and walking poles for up to three hours.

Patrons can land snowshoes while the winter is still sticking around, while walking poles can be used all year round.

The EPL recently started the podcast to announce their projects and programs in February, and now they continue to develop it.

"It's a work in progress. The first one was pretty much just me saying what events were happening at the library. We did the second one with Jessica (Kelly, adult programming coordinator) and that was a bit more lively. And as this podcast progresses, we'll be talking more and more about events within the library, but also some interesting things happening within the publishing world as well, such as new books and new trends," Redshaw said.

There are more adult and children programs happening at the library. More details on the EPL's March programming and activities can be found on the Southeast Regional Library’s YouTube channel, as well as on their Facebook page and at estevanlibrary. weebly.com. News is published regularly, while the podcast is uploaded on the first day of each month.

Third annual ice fishing derby scheduled for March 13

By Lisa McCullough Looking for something to do in the next couple weeks? Make your way down to Grant Devine Lake (formerly Alameda Dam) for the ice fishing derby on March 13.

You can register for the event at the gate house to Moose Creek Regional Park. The fee is $25.00 per person. Fishing starts at noon and ends at 6 p.m. that same day.

To stay within COVID regulations the registration will be drive thru at the gate house where you can remain in your vehicle. But if you want to pre-register you can get in touch with Cory Rucks at (306)-483-7218; Kevin at (306)485-8334 or Richard at (306)-4858076. You can also email smcwf50@ sasktel.net.

“Last year we had over 100 people at the event, we are hoping

for a similar outcome this year,” Cory Rucks stated.

How the event will work is that you are given a measuring stick at registration unless you have one of your own from previous years.

Once you catch your fish you will take a picture with your measuring stick and text it to the proper number. There are three different numbers to text for each individual type of fish you catch – pike, perch

and walleye. You are allowed to fish anyways on Grant Divine Lake and you must hold a valid fishing license and all the Saskatchewan fishing rules and regulations will apply during this event.

Prize winners will be notified by phone and will be posted on the Souris Moose Creek Wildlife Federation Facebook page. The prizes are as follows: Longest Pike and longest

walleye, first place and $500 cash, second place, $250 VISA card, third place, $50 VISA card. As for the longest perch, an additional $25 per person can be given to enter the 50/50 perch pot. If no perch are caught a draw will be made from all entries.

For more information you can contact the above phone numbers or check out the club’s Facebook page.

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CLUES ACROSS 1. Hot meal 5. Razor clams 10. Blood-sucking African fly 12. Chauvinists 14. Windy City football player 16. An alternative 18. Federal Housing Administration 19. Styles hair 20. Arabic female name 22. Paddle 23. Area once separated from Germany 25. Marketplace 26. Gode Airport 27. Upset 28. Where wrestlers sweat 30. Garland 31. Robert __, poet 33. An iPad is one 35. Fruit of the oak tree 37. Della __, singer 38. Women’s clothing retailer 40. Mailed 41. Largest English dictionary (abbr.)

42. Pouch 44. Radioactivity unit 45. Month 48. Nanosecond 50. Domestic 52. What a boy becomes 53. Breezes (anc. Greek) 55. Jogged 56. At the stern 57. Lawrencium 58. Destructive to both sides 63. Arterias 65. Removes 66. Pretentious people 67. Tropical Asian plant

CLUES DOWN 1. Type of whale 2. Type of medication 3. Land of the free 4. Formed an opinion of 5. Logo 6. No (Scottish) 7. Leaves tissue 8. Sacred state to Muslims 9. Thus 10. African nation 11. Someone who has a stake in 13. Parties 15. Subsystem producers 17. Large, flightless birds 18. Compromises visibility 21. A ballet enthusiast 23. More (Spanish) 24. Skeletal muscle 27. Hands (Span.)

29. Weighed 32. Businessman 34. Famous clock Big __ 35. Unkeyed 36. Break between words 39. Ink (slang) 40. Disappointed 43. Stroke 44. Curdled milk 46. Restaurants 47. Explosive 49. Type of terrier 51. Disfigure 54. Innermost cell layers 59. Bar bill 60. Distinct period of history 61. Mode of transportation 62. Equal (prefix) 64. Operating system

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www.estevanmercury.ca

March 10, 2021 A11

International WomEn’s Day #ChooseToChallenge, IWD 2021 The Estevan Mercury continues to celebrate Women of Estevan and International Women’s Day (IWD).

The theme of this year’s IWD on March 8 was Choose to Challenge.

An IWD website states, “A challenged world is an alert world. And from challenge comes change. So let’s all #ChooseToChallenge. So, hand up high to show you’re in.”

This year everybody celebrating and supporting IWD is asked to raise their hands “to show that they are in and that they commit to choose to challenge and call out inequality.”

Pictures can be posted on social networks

with #ChooseToChallenge #IWD2021 hashtags to encourage more people to join the movement and “forge an inclusive world.”

IWD is marked on March 8 every year. It celebrates social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women around the world. It also calls for action to put more effort into achieving gender parity and raises awareness about women’s equality.

Besides, many people and organizations focus on fundraising for female-oriented charities on and around March 8.

Additional Women of Estevan profiles will run in the future editions of the Mercury this month.

BROUGHT BY: nition le not looking for recog Silent heroes are peop she rd, wa Ho lping others. Jane lf in rse of their selflessness in he he of ch mu Jane gives so is one of those people. er. oth an or y wa ity in one helping our commun Society’s the Estevan Humane d ne joi st fir Jane board for e ars ago, at that tim kind, e board of directors ye m so of t en ily commitm da a s wa it rs, be rd em wa m cleaning, Jane Ho on animal care, shelter at one whether it was hands ing, etc. and ow, dealing with flood sn ing ar and cle g, isin dra repairs, fun payroll and opening ing staff timetabling, lud into inc red , su ing es th pr s ery ev wa point lders as she ou sh ’s ne Ja on l fel all closing the shelter the board position. of her regular day accepting the chair of me unpaid job on top l-ti ful nd co se a e lik s So it wa ews on top of this, so ng look after her neph give her nephews’ lpi he o als s wa e sh d job, an could to work, or just so she ck their mothers could go still does this). She was also helping Hitchco e sh d (an k parents a brea eir community hall. left with fundraising for th en several years to the humane society, she giv ity g un vin ha mm , co r ted us ou of ha Ex help the people to d nte wa e e sh os g th lin t one of the board, still fee mmitment. Jane is jus of directors co l na rso pe of s ur ho but with less on the board say no, and now she is well as Envision Counsilent heroes who can’t as ., Inc t tes for Employmen airwoman for Southeast Advoca e is the District 555 ch sh , es sid Be re. nt Ce l-time job and selling and Support still holding down a ful ilst wh b Clu el he W for the Inner r’s degree. ays working on her bachelo family and all her friends as well. She’s alw r he reto d g an rin ca ing az so is am ne is Ja she can. Jane y wa y an in s ort es pp ssn su her selfle offering help and n and appreciation of tio ra mi ad c bli pu rve ally does dese and good heart. you do for us!

Thank you Jane for all

Kirsten, through strong leadership and great dedication, is a highly respected, valuable member of our community. While being involved in Relay for Life in high school, Kirsten was shown the importance of strong leadership through the guidance of Pat Steinke and all the support and Kirsten Walliser mentorship that Pat provided.

While raising a family and maintaining a successful career, Kirsten exemplifies strong leadership through her achievements and involvement in the city. Kirsten’s new role as city councillor allows her to be a voice for the community and advocate for all. She takes her position very seriously and helps motivate other councillors to be the best they can be for the community. Her role as secretary for Special Olympics Estevan allows her to be a role model and to empower all those involved by offering support and inclusion in a productive way.

Kirsten is a registered nurse at St Joseph’s Hospital and is currently the vice-president of the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses Local and uses her roles as an RN and VP to advocate for staff safety through appropriate staffing and ongoing training opportunities.

Whenever there is an event in the city, Kirsten is supporting it in any way that she can and showcases all that Estevan has to offer. She takes great pride and ownership for the city that we live in and it sets a great example, to not only her three young boys, but also to all those that know her. Kirsten personifies what it means to be a strong female leader. Her humble nature, hard work and energetic spirit make her a treasured cornerstone in the community.

A12 March 10, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

International W

Women of Estevan: Outstanding Just-a-Small-Tow

By Ana Bykhovskaia Despite all the challenges life had for her, Jacquie Mvula always kept going, by her own example, proving that nothing is impossible.

Born and raised in Estevan, Jacquie gave a new meaning to the common image of a small-town girl.

On March 4, Jacquie opened her third Sun Country Hearing clinic in Moosomin.

A successful entrepreneur, professional audiologist, caring mother and wife, this resilient and incredibly strong woman also established a charitable foundation to support kids in Malawi, and keeps a blog about her life and style, sharing her insights and experiences to inspire and support others.

Within our Women of Estevan special, the Mercury talked to Jacquie about her life, business, passions and interests.

Jacquie's life started in Estevan, the city she loves and appreciates. But a tragedy that happened earlier in life saw her leaving Saskatchewan for Alberta for several years. When Jacquie was 18, she was in a car accident in which her best friend was killed. Physical traumas received in the crash weren't treated properly and left her living with severe pain.

After many months of dealing with it, Jacquie finally found out that one of the bones in her leg that was broken in the accident never healed and all that time she was walking on a pin. It was fixed, but later broke again, and never returned to normal, serving as a hard reminder of the tragedy.

But physical pain was not the only problem. Left untreated, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression (PTSD), which weren’t diagnosed until many years

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In her outfits Jacquie Mvula appreciates colours and patterns. Photo submitted later, partially because of Jacquie's goaloriented nature and high-functionality, have been a personal cargo that she's been battling and carrying through life ever since.

"I wasn't doing well. I didn't understand that it was depression and PTSD at the time. It took me 16 years to get a diagnosis for that. But I ended up just taking off. I went to Alberta with a friend and was just trying to get away from all the bad memories of that or the good memories of her.

“I was in Alberta for seven years. I did all sorts of things. I was a driving instructor. I just did stuff like that, but I was just having fun in my 20s.

"Then I started to think. I knew the depression was getting bad, and one day I said to myself, 'Jacquie, if you could do anything in the world, money doesn't matter, time doesn't matter, nothing, what do you think would make you happy?'

"It was like three seconds and I went, 'You got to go back to school.' I didn't even have to think, I just knew," Jacquie recalled.

Something that could break others, ended up making Jacquie stronger and stronger.

She already had her first year at Minot State University, and at the age of 27, she decided to go back to school and not only complete her bachelor of science but also get a master’s.

"I sold everything I had, except my dad had to buy my car, because you couldn't get a student loan if you had a car. So my dad bought my car, and then let me use it. I got a student loan and I put myself through it. It took me till I was 32," recalled Jacquie.

She chose audiology as her major – a decision that feels right even now.

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"I'm so glad that I ended up in audiology. I love it … People are fascinating.

Probably my favourite part is getting to know people because I feel like I've been through enough in my life, both good and bad. And sometimes I can relate really well," Jacquie said.

While in university, Jacquie met her husband-to-be.

Isaac, who was born in Malawi, was pursuing his degree at Minot State as well.

After dating for a few years, the couple decided to get married. Not too many people know the struggle it takes to be a family when the immigration process sticks between the two who love each other, but Jacquie and Isaac were able to overcome it and came first to Alberta and soon back to Saskatchewan, where the new wave of life adventures or challenges was awaiting them.

Becoming a business owner wasn't much of a choice, as soon after the university Isaac got a job in Stettler, Alta., a small town with no hearing clinic for Jacquie to work at. By then the family had two young kids, and soon Jacquie's entrepreneurial path began.

"It was definitely scary," recalls Jacquie.

Now, 11 successful years into the business, Jacquie feels much better, but their progress never stops, as the company keeps improving and implementing new technologies all the time.

When the family decided to come back to Jacquie's hometown, they knew that they would be opening a clinic here.

Not too long after Estevan's Sun Country Hearing clinic welcomed its first customers, Jacquie expanded to Yorkton.

While COVID has definitely made it more difficult for clients with hearing problems, Jacquie said she appreciates that they leave more time to each client now due to cleaning protocols.

The growth of the business and professionalism went in parallel with personal development. Jacquie added a new part to her life when she started a personal blog named Just A Small Town Girl. This hobby reflects Jacquie's appreciation for

Jacquie Mvula said that working with clients in her hearing clinics is the favourite part of the job. Photo submitted

Jacquie, her husband Isaac and

beautiful clothes and espec shoes.

"I love colour. Not very find me in black. I like contr and white, or black and ho I like bright colour … I love I love dresses. In summer, a is throw on a sundress and and I'm set," Jacquie said.

But even more importa gives room to share Jacqu experiences, which may sup others during their trying ti them maintain or regain health.

"I've lived with (mental longer than I haven't. So, to two big things that have he was the person who final me, telling me how strong always have felt weak … Th is that when I realized I wa one, that there were so man me out there.'"

Jacquie added that whi sion resulted from the tra a long time ago, up to the smaller things can spark m trigger the reaction. Howe sonal experience suggests with depression, addressing ways around the triggers h life.

And for Jacquie, origina unique shoes serve as one tricks that help her cope tougher days.

"Sometimes I'll wake up ing, and I'm like, 'Ugh, this is what do you do? You match underwear, wear your favou wear your favourite outfit."

The blog naturally beca Jacquie's life, it helped her

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March 10, 2021 A13

Women’s Day

health issues) o me, there are elped me. One lly diagnosed g I was when I he other thing asn't the only any people like

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Here’s to MAY WE KNOW

y often do you rast, like black ot pink. Mostly, patterns. And all I want to do fancy sandals

and it also gives her a new experience, joy and satisfaction.

"I feel like even if one person gets something from a story, then I help someone. I don't need a million people to read it … Part of it was to share my story without telling people what to think. It is just like, 'If she can do it, so can I because she's just a small-town girl. She grew up in the same town as me. And she went back and got a master's degree at 27. That's weird. But I can do that.'

"You don't need to come from a rich family, and you don't need to be brilliant, and you don't need to be gorgeous. You can set a goal and do whatever you want to do." By their own example, the Mvulas family keeps proving that. Before COVID hit, her family was able to make one of their long-time dreams come true.

"My husband's from Malawi. But even though we've been together 20 years this year, I had never been to his home country until last December."

The trip to Isaac's motherland gave a start to another beautiful puzzle piece in the Mvulas' life. That eye-opening experience inspired Jacquie, who's been involved with volunteering before, to start the Mvula Foundation Inc.

Guides.

E BE THEM.

cially exclusive

Pam is a bigtime volunteer.

Pam volunteers with all the provincial and natio na l cu rli ng Pam Dechief events that EsEstevan tevan hosts, and with the and Girl l va and District Music Festi

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d their kids Noah and Karson Mvula explored New York before the pandemic. Photo submitted

"I don't think people here understand what life in the village is like because even with 19 years of preparation, I didn't understand what that was like," recalled Jacquie. "People carry water on their heads. People don't have toilets. Nobody even has underwear. Babies don't have diapers. Kids don't have shoes."

"And the whole time I was in Malawi, it was overwhelming because you can't help everybody … I needed to do something that will last long term. So, I picked the school."

When a little kid, who was wandering around their house, said that he wasn't at school because his family couldn't afford to pay under C$2 per semester, Jacquie knew she had to do something. The family started a foundation, a lengthy process, which will help kids in Isaac's home village have all they need to get through school.

The bigger project includes providing kids with basic school and personal necessities, as well as installing showers that would help maintain good hygiene, supplying students with hot breakfast, securing funds to ensure they can get through the full schooling cycle, installing a glass roof to allow for some light in the building that doesn't have electricity and getting a solar panel to have light at the library. The foundation is still at its early stages, and Jacquie hopes it will do well.

Sun Country Hearing now employs five people and will have six soon. And Mvula and her family keep moving forward, successfully matching the life puzzle pieces and gently balancing between different spheres of their life. And Jacquie said that their mutual adaptation to each others' needs is one of the key elements of their success.

The business that employs both Jacquie and Isaac also follows the same rules of partnership.

"I couldn't do what I'm doing without him doing what he's doing," Jacquie said.

Hobbies, new projects and memories and dreams about past and future travels make Jacquie's happy life, still sometimes shaded with clouds of depression, complete.

More about Jacquie Mvula's life story can be found in her blog at just-a-smalltown-girl.ca or in her Instagram @justasmalltowngirlsk.

Jackie Wall is the director of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce, a consultant, an artist, an advocate, Jackie Wall a mother and a wife.

Our community is fortunate to have Jackie bring ing Estevan to the forefront every chance she has.

.M

wn-Girl shares her story of life

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Chaelynn Kitz reaches new height of curling career

By Olivia Grandy Oxbow's Chaelynn Kitz curled on Team Saskatchewan at the recent Scotties Tournament of Hearts, Canada's national women's curling championship.

Her first time at the Scotties was an unusual experience, with curlers being in isolation between games and no fans in the stands, but it proved to be nonetheless incredible.

"It was an awesome experience. It's been a dream of mine since I was a little girl, so to finally get there, it was something I could've never imagined," said Kitz.

Kitz, who curled second, wore green alongside skip Sherry Anderson, third Nancy Martin and lead Breanne Knapp. Team Anderson, coached by Shane Kitz, is based out of the Nutana Curling Club in Saskatoon. They finished the tournament with a 6-6 record.

Athletes at Olympic Park in Calgary encountered a Scot-

ties like no other. Curlers had to follow strict COVID-19 restrictions and remain in a bubble during the duration of their stay. Cardboard cut-outs of friends, family, and pets filled the stands, which, although comforting, created a nearsilent rink.

Anderson famously remarked that it was so quiet on the ice that they could hear a toilet flush, something very ironic considering the Scotties' typical rambunctious environment.

Kitz explained how it felt to be around such elite players: "Just being on that kind of ice and being around those kinds of people more often … increases … your comfort level.

The more comfortable you can be, the more excellent you can play."

She is continuing her growth as an outstanding curler this season. Kitz will be competing in the Canadian Mixed Doubles Championship with her teammate, Calgary-based

athlete Kyler Kleibrink.

The pair has been preparing as much as possible for the event while not meeting in person. They have been discussing strategy over Zoom calls.

Kitz's current priority is to stay in a focused headspace during her time at home.

She also explained how much the outpouring of support from the southeast corner means to her.

"It was actually insane.

[It's] … going to be my most cherished memories of going, just the outreach [of support].

There were just so many people on Facebook, especially."

Kitz recognizes the power of humble beginnings.

"With all the trouble that Oxbow Curling rink has had this year … I want people to see me reaching my dreams.

It starts in the small rinks. I started curling in Alameda and Oxbow, and I fully attribute everything to them, so that's why I want more people to get out there."

Oxbow’s Chaelynn Kitz was part of Team Saskatchewan at the recent Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Photo courtesy of Andrew Klaver with Curling Canada Chaelynn would like young curlers to know that "hard work pays off. Whatever you can set your mind to and make that goal, just keep working away. Practice makes

perfect. Just keep practising, and if you keep trying hard, you will succeed."

"I would like to thank everyone who reached out and who was cheering for us

in green. We felt it. There was no crowd out there, but we felt the cheer from home," she said.

The Canadian Mixed Double Championships will kick off March 18.

Local athlete commits to Medicine Hat College Another talented local athlete has committed to compete for the Medicine Hat College (MHC) Rattlers athletics program.

Aden Haywood has agreed to join the Rattlers running team for the 2021-22 season. In a Facebook post from the Rattlers on Feb. 28, Haywood, a Grade 12 student at the Estevan Comprehensive School, said he is excited to attend and run at MHC. Haywood said he initially planned to go to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in Calgary, but opted for Medicine Hat because of Brian Corcoran, the coach of the program.

“The coach has a lot of

experience,” said Haywood. “He has a lot of experience, and he’s worked with a lot of teams.”

It’s a brand new program at Medicine Hat, and Haywood believes it will be great to get involved with the program in its first year.

“Brian has worked with a lot of good athletes, and he has a lot of experience himself as a runner, so I think it would help out a lot, because I’ve never really had coaching where my coach has done a lot (in the sport),” said Haywood.

He would have been part of the running program at SAIT had he opted for that school.

Haywood will be studying criminal justice while at

Medicine Hat. It’s a four-year program, and he said there are so many jobs he could enter with that degree, but right now criminal science, forensics or working as a Canada Border Services Agency officer would be his preferences.

Corcoran said on Facebook that Haywood is “a real hidden gem.”

“I'm really looking forward to working with him as he moves up to the college ranks,” Corcoran said.

In his Grade 11 year in 2019, Haywood was seventh in the senior boys division at cross-country provincials.

Previously in 2019, at the track and field provincials, Haywood was eighth in the junior

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boys’ 3,000 metres and 10th in the 1,500 metres.

Haywood said the club is labelled as a cross-country team, but they also compete in indoor track meets in the winter.

Cross-country is his preferred discipline.

“I’d rather run through an actual course. It’s always different each time. On the track, it’s always the same old thing every time,” said Haywood.

He was concerned that losing his Grade 12 season, along with the track and field season in Grade 11, could cost him his shot at competing at the collegiate level.

“When I heard that I didn’t have a season this year, I lost a lot of hope for sports and going to post-secondary with it. Bur once I started emailing coaches and telling them that I kept on training each day, it helped out,” he said.

Haywood is the second Grade 12 athlete at the Comp. to commit to Medicine Hat. Earlier this year, it was announced that Kyler Dutka of Bienfait would play for the Rattlers men’s basketball program.

Dutka’s older sister Tatiana is already part of the women’s basketball team.

The presence of a number

Aden Haywood has committed to the Medicine Hat College Rattlers running program, starting this fall.

Photo submitted of other Estevan athletes didn’t factor into his decision.

“I knew that people were looking at the school, but I was just planning to run at a small college, and not really looking to university. I was planning to go to Alberta. That was the goal.”

Still it helps that he will

know some people at the school once he arrives.

Haywood expects he will need to keep running before the 2021-22 season begins, so that he can build his strength.

He anticipates there will be a variety of training, using hills, the track and more.

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Tanner Jeannot will never forget March 2.

Jeannot, who hails from Oxbow and played his minor hockey in southeast Saskatchewan until his second season of U18 hockey, made his NHL debut for the Nashville Predators in Nashville’s 4-2 loss to the

Carolina Hurricanes on March 2.

A 23-year-old winger, Jeannot played six minutes and 28 seconds for the Preds.

He was recalled by the Predators on Monday from the American Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves, and assigned to the Preda-

tors taxi squad. While playing for the Wolves, Jeannot had three goals and eight assists in six games to start the season.

Jeannot was returned to Nashville’s taxi squad on March 5, and sent back to the American Hockey League the following day.

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March 10, 2021 A15

Supper and auction supported curling club The Estevan Curling Club was pleased with the support for its steak night and live auction fundraiser Friday night at the Power Dodge Curling Centre lounge.

About 40 people enjoyed the supper in the lounge, with 10 tables of four people each due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“We’re used to having more than that at events, but it all worked out well,” said club manager Pauline Ziehl Grimsrud.

Another half dozen people picked up their steaks at the rink and enjoyed them at home.

A baked potato and a salad were served with each steak, and angel food cake was the desert.

“We’ve had good reviews.

People were pretty happy. The steaks were excellent,” said Ziehl Grimsrud.

The steaks were from the Southern Plains Co-op, while Bert Baxter Transport supplied the barbecue.

The curling club initially planned to have its annual corporate bonspiel this past weekend, but that event was cancelled due to the restrictions associated with COVID-19. The ice has been removed at the curling club.

“The corporate bonspiel is always a very fun weekend for our membership,” said Ziehl Grimsrud. “Of course, we had members and non-members at this event, which was great. But we needed to do something, and we needed to try to conclude the season with an opportunity for our membership to get together in a safe and responsible manner, and have a little bit of fun and an evening out.”

The live auction featured an autographed Chaelynn Kitz Team Saskatchewan jersey. Kitz, who is from Oxbow, was the second on the Team Saskatchewan rink skipped

by Sherry Anderson at the recent Scotties Tournament of

Bruin named RBC Community Ambassador The Estevan Bruins have announced that forward Caleb Petrie has been named the team’s RBC Community Ambassador for the 2020-21 SJHL season.

“Living in Estevan for the past two seasons has made me realize how lucky I am to call Estevan my second home,” said Petrie. “The people of Estevan show their generous support in so many ways to the Bruins … it makes being involved in the community fun and an opportunity to meet all the great people who make the Bruins such a top-notch program.”

Petrie joined the Estevan Bruins as a rookie at the start of the 2019-20 season and immediately immersed himself into the team’s community involvement activities.

“It’s an honour to be chosen as the RBC Community Ambassador for the Estevan Bruins,” he said.

Petrie was always eager to sign up and attended most community events, even volunteering at the last minute to fill in for teammates on more than one occasion.

Among other activities, Petrie was heavily involved in school visits, youth hockey practices and helping non-profits like the Salvation Army and the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation.

Despite fans not seeing his name and number on the ice much during home games, Petrie was still recognized

by Bruins’ supporters young and old.

“I love Estevan for many reasons, one of those being the tight-knit ‘family’ atmosphere throughout the entire community. It shows through events like the United Way Telethon, the Radiothon and Festival of Trees supporting the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, and many other community fundraisers,” said Petrie.

W hile the 2020-21 season has not allowed the Bruins to be involved in the community very much, Petrie still volunteered to bring food and snacks to residents in assisted care and helped collect toy donations for the Community Hamper Association before the SJHL season was suspended.

“When you’re talking about the Estevan Bruins, you’re not just talking about the 25 guys on the roster, but the City of Estevan standing with us … and we can’t thank every one of you enough for your support,” said Petrie.

In a press release, the Bruins said the two traits that best describe Petrie are work ethic and attitude. No matter the situation, he has always led by example and takes the positive angle, whether it is on

the ice, in the weight room or out in the community.

Despite several other deserving players, the Bruins say Petrie is an easy choice as their RBC Community Ambassador and would be the perfect representative for the SJHL honour as well. A winner of the league honour will be announced at a later date.

Bruin defenceman Kade McMillen, who hails from Carievale, was selected as the SJHL’s Community Ambassador for the 2019-20 season.

Hearts women’s national curling championships in Calgary.

Kurt Muyres sent in an autographed jacket that he wore last fall while competing with the Matt Dunstone rink. Team Dunstone is currently competing at the Tim Hortons Brier men’s curling nationals in Calgary as the Saskatchewan representative.

The two pieces of memorabilia generated $1,550.

Some of the live auction bids were through a proxy.

Ziehl Grimsrud has been working on a number of fronts for funding to help non-profit organizations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s pleased with the support they

have received thus far, and it will certainly make a difference.

“This season we had five or six weeks of curling in with the adults before we were shut down, but the good news out of that is we did manage to get our youth programs in and have those complete,” she said.

Ziehl Grimsrud said they have nothing else planned for the rest of the season. The club will now focus on completing work on their new structure behind the main buailding, which will house equipment for the icemaker.

She hopes they can return to curling in the fall, so they will Autographed memorabilia from Chaelynn Kitz and be preparing to ensure they’re Kurt Muyres were available during a live auction at ready for curling season. the Estevan Curling Club on the weekend.

Estevan Lacrosse starting field lacrosse program this spring The Estevan Lacrosse Association is branching out to include a new form of the sport.

The organization has offered indoor box lacrosse since its inception nearly 20 years ago, but now it is bringing field lacrosse to the city.

President Braydon Krahn and marketing co-ordinator Rochelle Duncan said they believe now is the time to start a field lacrosse program.

“It’s the next logical step to help grow our program and get our players more touches on the ball, and get them more exposure to our game,” said Krahn.

Across the province, Krahn said field lacrosse is growing rapidly. In the past Saskatchewan has had very good field lacrosse programs, and has even won national championships.

Weyburn and Yorkton are similar-sized communities that

currently have both field and box lacrosse programs.

Box lacrosse plays similar to hockey with the positioning of basketball, Krahn said, while field lacrosse, since it is played outdoors and with more players on the field, is a lot closer to soccer.

“There are actually different positions entirely, and the field game is a lot more about spacing, whereas in box, it’s a little more crash, bang, boom.

You’re in tight, in close, and it’s fast paced,” said Krahn.

Local youths have had some exposure to field lacrosse, thanks to clinics that were offered locally last summer, but Krahn said they look forward to diving into it more in-depth this year.

“The board last year laid the groundwork for us, and it’s been easy to transition into this now,” said Krahn.

The dates for the season

haven’t been finalized, but a season would typically run from early April until the end of June. A location for the club also hasn’t been established, but Krahn noted there are options in the area.

“We’re hoping to span all age groups, so we’ll be running from our under-six group to hopefully the junior,” said Krahn.

Their goal is to grow the game as much as they can and boost the exposure of the sport.

“We’re hoping to travel to some tournaments and festivals for this year, and then in the future, when a league does become available, we would be pursuing that as well,” said Krahn.

But the addition of field lacrosse would not take away from box lacrosse.

“We’re not going to hurt those box players at all. Box lacrosse is going to come first.

And then field lacrosse is just an extra option for them.”

Also needed are a name and logo for field lacrosse in Estevan.

“People can reach out to us on our Facebook page … or on Instagram,” said Duncan.

“We’re looking for a name or a logo idea and we’re letting the contest go until about April 29.”

The winner will receive bragging rights and some memorabilia announcing the new team name and logo. The name and logo should be reflective of the Estevan area and the local energy sector, Krahn said.

They have already received lots of great ideas.

As for box lacrosse, there will be a clinic on March 20 and 21 that will help kick off the season. It will occur at the Power Dodge Arena from 1-4 p.m. More information can be found on the Estevan Lacrosse Facebook and Instagram pages.

Health&Wellness

A16 March 10, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

How exercise can help you live longer

There are many reasons to get in shape. Weight loss is a prime motivator, as is reversing a negative health effect, such as high cholesterol or increased diabetes risk. Routine exercise also can improve life expectancy.

WebMD says exercise

keeps the body and brain healthy. That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age.

Research published in the journal Immune Aging found that how people age is 75 percent lifestyle and only 25 percent genet-

ics, which underscores the importance of the lifestyle choices people make.

Cardiorespiratory fitness Many health experts say that cardiorespiratory fitness may be just as valuable a metric to determine overall health as blood pressure and lipid levels. People with a high aerobic capacity can deliver oxygen to tissues and cells efficiently to fuel exercise, according to data published in 2014 in the journal Aging & Disease. In a study involving 11,335 women, researchers compared V02 max, also known as aerobic capacity, in women with mortality data. Women who were fit from a cardiovascular

perspective had a lower death rate from all causes, irrespective of the women’s weight.

Manage stress and mood Exercise has direct stress-busting benefits that can promote longevity. The Mayo Clinic says physical activity can increase the production of endorphins, which are the body’s feelgood neurotransmitters.

In addition, exercise can imitate the effects of stress, helping the body adjust its flight or fight response accordingly, and help them cope with mildly stressful situations. While engaged in exercise, people may forget about their problems as they are focused on the activity

at hand.

Improve bone health Strength training and physical activity can stave off the effects of frailty and osteoporosis, which affects bone strength. A study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine in 2017 found that hip fractures are associated with diminished quality of life and survival among the elderly. One in three adults aged 50 and over dies within 12 months of suffering a hip fracture, and older adults have a fiveto eight-times greater risk of dying within three months following a hip fracture.

Building muscle strength, balance and bone density through exercise can reduce falls and frailty, helping

to prevent fracture-related health risks.

Addresses sarcopenia The health and wellness resource Healthline defines sarcopenia as the loss of muscle mass specifically related to aging. Doctors once considered this muscle loss inevitable, and it can affect stamina and lead to weakness. However, new indications suggest that exercise is the main treatment regimen for sarcopenia, particularly resistance training.

This is designed to improve muscle strength and help balance hormone levels by turning protein into energy for older adults.

These are just some of the ways exercise can help older adults live longer.

The health benefits of quinoa Michelle Assoumbang Pharmacist, BSP

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Whole grains are vital components of a healthy diet. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, whole grains provide a host of nutritious benefits, including some that were discovered only recently.

The AND notes that whole grains were long seen as rich in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and heart health. That’s still true, and WebMD notes that many whole grains provide between one and four grams of fiber per serving, an amount that puts them

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on the same level as various fruits and vegetables in regard to fiber content. But recent research has found that whole grains also are rich in protein, B vitamins and trace minerals like iron, magnesium and zinc.

Quinoa is one highly nutritious whole grain that’s easy to find and even easier to prepare. Quinoa is considered a complete protein, which means it includes all nine essential amino acids.

Why is that important? To understand that, it’s best to first consider the impor-

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tance of protein. Protein is comprised of 20 amino acids, 11 of which the body can produce on its own. For optimal health, the body needs all 20 amino acids.

Diet is the only way to get the nine essential amino acids that your body cannot produce on its own. Complete proteins like quinoa provide all nine in a single food, making them especially healthy, convenient options for people looking to ensure they get enough protein in their diets.

As noted, whole grains are good sources of iron, and quinoa is no exception.

That’s a considerable benefit, as iron is an essential part of hemoglobin, a red protein that’s responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.

Quinoa also is a good source of magnesium.

That’s another significant benefit of including quinoa in your diet, as the Office of Dietary Supplements notes low levels of magnesium have been linked to various ailments, including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and type 2

diabetes.

Pregnant women or women hoping to become pregnant, as well as their male partners, also can discuss the benefits of including quinoa in their diets with their physicians. That’s because quinoa is high in the B vitamin folate, which is needed to perform various functions in the body, including the production of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow. Adequate folic acid consumption before and during pregnancy can protect against miscarriages and congenital defects. And while women may be familiar with the importance of folate regarding their pregnancies or future pregnancies, men also may need to monitor their folate intake. A 2013 study from researchers at McGill University in Montreal found that paternal folate deficiency in mice was associated with a significant increase in congenital deformities.

Whole grains like quinoa benefit the body in myriad ways, making them worthy additions to anyone’s diet.

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www.estevanmercury.ca

March 10, 2021 A17

Accelerating COVID-19 vaccination in Saskatchewan

An afternoon at the park

The provincial government has revealed plans to have accelerated COVID-19 vaccinations in Saskatchewan.

With expected deliveries of AstraZeneca in March, Saskatchewan residents ages 60-64 and phase one priority health care workers will be offered the first 15,500 doses. Making vaccines available to the 60-64 age sequence group is being done as an exception to phase 1 criteria to align with the National Advisory Committee's recommendation that AstraZeneca supply be targeted to those under 65.

"Saskatchewan is leading the nation in vaccine delivery and the promise of a predictable and increasing supply will ensure that every resident who wants a vaccine will be able to receive one that much faster," Health Minister Paul Merriman said.

"Based on the evidence, we will see protection for our general population increase, protecting those of us at highest risk."

Administration of the AstraZenca doses will begin March 22, distributed to six major hubs throughout the province.

All doses are expected to be fully administered within one week on a by-appointment basis.

Health care workers will receive notification of their eligibility directly from the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Members of the public who are eligible will be able to book by phone.

The phone-in booking system is undergoing final testing in preparation of being launched next week. Please do not call 811 seeking a vaccination appointment; details on the booking process will be announced.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has updated their recom-

mendation on the interval between the first and second doses of authorized COVID-19 vaccines in the context of limited vaccine supply. Based on the evidence by NACI and its expertise in vaccine science, they are recommending that jurisdictions should maximize the number of people benefitting from the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by extending the interval between the first and second dose up to four months, in the context of limited COVID-19 vaccine supply.

"Implementing the new NACI guidelines in Saskatchewan means that all Saskatchewan residents should have access to their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by the end of June," Merriman said. "This will speed up both our administration of vaccines, and our return to normal."

The province of Saskatchewan implemented this recommendation starting March 5. Beginning March 5, all vaccines administered will be a first dose, with second doses administered at an interval of four months, in alignment with the NACI recommendations. Residents will be contacted when they are eligible to book their second dose appointment, based on completing the vaccination sequencing and supply.

Note that this delayed second dose strategy does not apply to long-term care and personal care residents and staff who have yet to receive their full two-dose series and any existing second-dose appointments. Existing, scheduled appointments for second doses will be completed as scheduled.

Based on current allocations of COVID-19 vaccines from the federal government and the updated four month interval recommendation from NACI, it is anticipated that every adult in Saskatchewan will be able to access their first dose by the end of June.

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Summer Foster, top, and Beckam Driedger were at the Dennis Moore Centennial Park Monday afternoon. It was another warm and sunny afternoon in Estevan, and that meant it was the perfect opportunity for kids to be out at parks in the community.

Winners announced for Pizza Month competition The Tower Café was voted best overall pizza and best crust by taste buds from across the southeast during Tourism Estevan’s inaugural Pizza Month in February.

It should be no surprise, as the Tower was named Estevan’s favourite pizza through the Estevan Mercury’s Best of Estevan promotion in 2011, 2018 and 2020.

Meanwhile, Fired Up Grill won for the most unique with its all-dressed pizza.

Eight restaurants took part in the contest, which garnered 467 votes from 391 people.

In addition to trophies, each prize carried

$200 to be awarded to a charity of the restaurant's choice. Tower Café has chosen United Way Estevan and the Estevan Public Youth Centre, while Fired Up Grill will donating to the Estevan Family Resource Centre.

Jeannette Biberdorf from Frobisher, who entered at Humpty's Restaurant, won a $500 gift card from Shop Estevan for participating.

The winner of the prize was randomly chosen from the pool of voters.

Other competing restaurants were The Black Grasshopper, Domino’s Pizza, Michael’s Coffee Shop and Bakery, Pinocchio Pizza and Red Swan Pizza.

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CLASSIFIEDS A18 | Wednesday, March 10, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca

Obituaries

Feed & Seed

Announcements

Ronald “Diesel” James Sopp 1963 – 2021 It is with great sadness that the family wishes to announce that Ron “Diesel” Sopp, late of Estevan, SK passed away at the Regina General Hospital on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at the age of 57 years.

Ron was predeceased by his parents, Murray and Millie Sopp of Carnduff, SK; father-inlaw and mother-in-law Andrew and Loretta Himmelspach and

sister-in-law Wendy Curtis.

Ron will be greatly missed by the love of his life of 36 years Linda Sopp and children Michael Sopp (Jaycee, Ayden), Daniel (Tajia) Sopp (Izrael, Allija), Jaclyn (Jordan) Duff (Rayne) and Cindy (Brooke, Joshua). Ron will be missed by his siblings, Trudy Sopp, Brenda Sopp, Cathy (Don) Gompf, Kent (Linda) Sopp, Donna (Tim) Bonokoski and Robert (Lynda) Sopp. Ron also leaves special memories with his sibings-in-law, Sandra Himmelspach, Greg (Laura Lee) Himmelspach, Allan (Carrie) Himmelspach, Kevin Himmelspach, Jolene (Eric) Murray, Amanda Himmelspach and David (Cathie) Curtis and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private Celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, March 13, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Hall Funeral Services, Estevan, SK with Marian Huber officiating. The family invites you to join them virtually using this link: https://event. forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=28053d23-2544-48f3937f-3db52093be22 Please visit the link above to register for the live stream.

Hall Funeral Services, Estevan is caring for the Sopp family – Deb Heidinger, Funeral Director.

Dennis Christofferson 1941 - 2021 The family of Dennis Christofferson is saddened to announce his sudden passing at his home in Estevan, Sask. on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at the age of 79.

Dennis' memory will be forever cherished by his loving family: daughter Meegan Christofferson and son-in-law Wes Nyeste; granddaughter Kayla Christofferson (Dillon Currie) and their children: Enver and Rooney Currie; grandsons: Jaden Christofferson (Katie Wall), Masyn, Kale and Asher Nyeste; daughter Bonita Christofferson and son-in-law Ron Duffus; grandchildren: Kristen Duffus and RJ Duffus; son Wayland Christofferson; granddaughter Skyla Tessier, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Just a few short months ago, on September 1, 2020, his beloved Doreen was called home. He was also predeceased by his parents: Harry & Helen Christofferson; brother Glen Christofferson and sisters: Peggy (Mal) Horner and Mildred Lloyd.

A private family Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Estevan, with Rev. Sathiadas Antony presiding. The Rite of Committal followed at the Estevan City Cemetery.

For family and friends so wishing, donations in Dennis' memory may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1910 McIntyre Street, Regina, Sask., S4P 2R3 or the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation, 1176 Nicholson Road, Estevan, Sask., S4A 0H3.

Hall Funeral Services in Estevan provided care to the Christofferson family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

Card of Thanks Thank You We, the family of John Wilbraham wish to express sincere appreciation to all those who have sent flowers, cards, messages of condolence & virtual hugs. Your thoughtfulness and compassion continue to bring us great comfort at this time of sorrow.

Thank you to Victoria Park Personal Care Home for the care they provided to Dad for the last three and a half years, medical staff on Unit 4B and MSU at the Pasqua hospital. Thank you to Jackie van’t Voort for officiating the service, to Anita and Mariah Warriner and Dustin Hall for their musical tributes and to Hall Funeral Services for the excellent service provided to our family.

- Cindy, Dale, Kelly, Kyle and Cassy

BREAKING

NEWS

ESTEVAN MERCURY.CA

In MeMorIaM

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In Memory of Brenda Dyck May 9, 1961 - March 15, 2011 Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way Though absent you are always near Still missed, loved and always dear Love, John & Marg, Bruce, Kerry & family, Sean, Patti & family

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Farm ServiceS

SINCE 2008

Notices / NomiNatioNs Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

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Integrity Post Frame Buildings

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc.

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Career OppOrtunities Heavy Duty Mechanic – Journeyperson. Somerville Farms is located in Eatonia, SK. Great company, Great location, Great wage. Visit hire-standard.com/job-seekers to learn more and to apply.

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Competitive salary, all expenses & mileage paid, health spending account and pension plan. We provide extensive training using our industry leading crop hail adjusting program.

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sales@ Integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com

Willyour yourchild childbe be5 Will 5years oldon onor or years old before 31? before December December 31?

Announcements

WANTED Canadian Prairie Pickers $ $

Don’t fall victim to sharing fake news about COVID-19 online.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

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Kindergarten Registration Completed registration packages can be returned to the school via email at office.stmarys@holyfamilyrcssd.ca To register your child for Kindergarten, please visit our website at https://st-marys.holyfamilyrcssd.ca & download a registration package, or contact Andrea McClelland at the school (306)-634-3541

www.estevanmercury.ca

March 10, 2021 A19

VILLAGE OF NORTH PORTAL Notice of Assessment

Find all of

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Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of North Portal for the year of 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from March 3rd 2021 to May 4th, 2021.

Your Local

News in

Print

A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal along with the applicable fee of $100.00 with: Aileen Swenson, Secretary, The Board of Revision, PO Box 119, North Portal, Saskatchewan, S0C 1W0, by the 4th day of May, 2021.

and

Online

.

Dated this 3rd day of March, 2021.

Lindsay Davis Administrator/Assessor

Stay up to date

AGM

BREAKING

March 18, 2021, 7pm

Taylorton Room, Days Inn Estevan COVID guidelines will be followed and pre-registration is required as a maximum of 30 people can be in attendance.

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To register please email estevanyouthsoccer2017@gmail.com Deadline is March 15, 2021

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Roche Percee for the year of 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Thursdays from March 4th, 2021 to May 12th, 2021.

A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and assessment notices have been sent as required.

is looking for a FULL TIME COOK Duties: Prepare and cook complete meals or individual dishes and foods.

Experience: 3 years Wage: $15/hour Send email to Jason Fang at jennyk8889@icloud.com

SRI HOMES’ Estevan Facility SHELTER HOME SYSTEMS is currently accepting applications for

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Any person who wishes to appeal against their assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal along with the applicable fee of $150.00 with: Secretary, The Board of Revision, Box 22 RR1, Bienfait, Saskatchewan, S0C 0M0, by the 12th day of May, 2021.

Dated this 4th day of March, 2021

LAND FOR SALE 639.49 acres of good quality farmland with oil surface leases located in the Stoughton, SK area. Contact listing agent for more information.

Justin Sheppard - REALTOR ® 306-530-4588 justin@sheppardrealty.ca www.sheppardrealty.ca Sheppard Realty - Regina, SK

LAND FOR SALE 751.44 acres of good quality farmland with oil surface lease revenue located in the Lampman, SK area. Contact listing agent for more information.

Lindsay Davis Assessor

The R.M. of Benson No. 35 is now accepting applications for an experienced seasonal equipment operator (which may lead to a Full Time Position).

Duties to include but not limited to: Mowing, grading, road repair, culvert and sign installation and maintenance, rock picking, equipment maintenance and repair and other miscellaneous duties.

Interested individuals should submit their resume with qualifications, wage expectation and work references by March 25, 2021, to Box 69, Benson, Saskatchewan, S0C 0L0, email rm35@sasktel.net or fax to 634-8804.

For inquiries call 306-634-9410.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

Justin Sheppard - REALTOR ® 306-530-4588 justin@sheppardrealty.ca www.sheppardrealty.ca Sheppard Realty - Regina, SK

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Police make several arrests in the past week Members of the Estevan Police Service (EPS) were called to a downtown location March 5 for a report of a used syringe being discarded on a street.

A member attended and walked the area, locating several used syringes. They were safely collected and discarded.

The public is asked to report such findings and to not touch the items until police can dispose of them properly.

In other recent police news, members made an arrest for an assault on March 1. The victim received minor injures as a result of the incident. A 16-year-old Estevan youth was later arrested and has been charged.

Police are investigating a recent break and enter and theft.

According to a post on the Saskatchewan Crime Watch Advisory Network issued early March 3, police were advised of the incident, which occurred at an apartment in downtown Estevan. The theft would have occurred between Feb. 18 and March 2. Several items were taken from the residence

during that time. If anyone has any information or saw anything suspicious, please call the EPS at 306-634-4767.

As a result of a conditions check, a 31-year-old man from Estevan is facing charges of failing to comply with a probation order.

He will appear in court in April to answer to the charge.

A traffic stop was made in north Estevan on March 4, resulting in a 35-year-old Stoughton man being arrested for two outstanding warrants. He was charged under the Criminal Code for breaching his court-ordered release conditions and for being in possession of methamphetamines under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. He made his first court appearance in Estevan Provincial Court later in the day, and he was remanded into custody until his next court appearance on March 8 at 9:30 a.m.

As a result of a traffic stop in northeast Estevan, a 30-year-old Estevan woman has been charged under the Traffic Safety Act for being a suspended driver, and her

to comply with release conditions.

He was lodged in cells and appeared before a justice of the peace on March 5.

A 29-year-old Estevan man was arrested and charged March 5 with breaching the conditions of his probation order as well as uttering threats in relation to an investigation regarding an incident that occurred at a west Estevan restaurant.

He was remanded into custody and will be held for court on March 8 at 9:30 a.m.

Officers received a report of an attempted scam. The complainant received a call indicating their pension/old age security payment amount was increasing. The caller asked the complainant for banking information so they could receive the increase. No information was vehicle was impounded for 30 days. provided as the complainant beFollowing a conditions check, lieved it was an attempted scam. a 37-year-old Estevan man is facing Police remind the public that you charges of failing to comply with will not be contacted in this manner his release conditions. He will ap- to receive benefits. pear in Estevan Provincial Court at Police attended to a two-vehia later date to answer to the charges. cle collision in downtown Estevan A 56-year-old Estevan male on March 6. One of the vehicles left was arrested on a warrant for failing a stop sign early and was struck by

another vehicle. The driver of the offending vehicle was issued a ticket for leaving a stop sign before it was safe to do so. Estevan Emergency Medical Services attended to the accident and assessed one of the drivers. He was treated at the scene and released by EMS. One of the vehicles was able to drive away from the accident while the other had to be towed.

A traffic stop in central Estevan resulted in a 52-year-old Estevan man being arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamines and ecstasy under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. He was also charged under the Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act for having open alcohol in his vehicle. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance in Estevan Provincial Court on May 3 at 9:30 a.m.

A 17-year-old Estevan youth was arrested and charged with impaired driving following a traffic stop in central Estevan. He is scheduled to make his first appearance in Estevan Provincial Court on May 10 at 9:30 a.m.

Minor hockey scrimmage drew provincial attention

An investigation has been ongoing into a scrimmage involving an Estevan minor hockey team that occurred in Torquay in late February.

A video of the scrimmage, involving members of the Estevan Wolves U18 house league team, was posted onto social media through a Facebook Live video. The players appeared to be in a four-on-four game with someone wearing a referee’s outfit. Social distancing was not followed.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority has also been investigating the session.

The video has since been taken down.

Kelly McClintock, the general manager of the Saskatchewan Hockey Associa-

tion, said the organization’s discipline chair has investigated the incident, and they’re waiting to hear back from public health as to their next action.

While they can’t comment on what the health authority might do, McClintock said there would likely be sanctions taken by Sask. Hockey for the adult coaches and staff involved, likely in the form of a suspension. He doesn’t expect any discipline for the players.

McClintock became aware of the video on March 1 through staff members who saw it on multiple Facebook accounts. The video was later picked up by the media and the scrimmage was brought up during the provincial COVID update press conference on March 2.

He cited several restrictions that were broken after seeing the video. Teams can only have groups of eight on the ice, and players have to be three metres apart within their group.

If you have multiple groups on the ice, they have to be five metres apart. There also can’t be a competitive environment.

There was also someone dressed as an official who dropped the puck, and there were people on each bench with no social distancing. “ There’s no question here about the violation of the guidelines,” McClintock said.

This marked the first time that the Saskatchewan Hockey Association has received a complaint about teams playing a game or

having a scrimmage, or violating provincial regulations since those restrictions came into effect at the end of November.

“We’re not naïve enough to believe that things may not have been happening,

were doing.”

Since the game involving the Wolves was brought to Sask. Hockey’s attention, they have been informed of another scrimmage. McClintock did not divulge the location of that incident.

Deadline approaching to remove ice fishing shelters

With ice fishing season winding down, anglers are reminded that all ice fishing shelters south of Highway 16 must be removed by March 15.

Shelters in areas north of Highway 16 must be removed by March 31.

Every year, ice fishing shelters are abandoned on the ice. When the ice melts, these can pose a danger to boaters, water-skiers and others enjoying lakes and reservoirs. Pieces of abandoned shelters can also wash up on shore, causing environmental hazards.

S t r u c t u re s mu s t b e moved to a location where they can be loaded and

21022jj0

but if people have done it, they haven’t taken video of it and posted it on Facebook, or posted it on some social media avenues. That’s the disturbing part for us is they did it and they posted it and were flaunting what they

transported to the owner’s residence or property. Litter must also be removed when ice shelters are removed from the ice.

If shelters are not removed, owners may be prosecuted and the structure and contents may be moved off the ice and confiscated.

Anyone travelling on the ice should take extreme caution. Slush indicates that ice is eroding from above and below at an advanced rate. Changing temperatures can cause thermal cracks and pressure ridges, which are indicators of unsafe conditions.

Dear Valued Patients, This is to advise you that we will be relocating our practise commencing July 4, 2021 and will not be available to provide medical care in Estevan after that date.

We would like to thank you all for giving us the opportunity to be part of your health care team.

We hope this notice will give you time to attend to any pending medical issues or prescription refills.

If you have any questions regarding transfer of care to another physician please contact our office at 306.634.6444.

Sincerely, Dr. H. Abou El Yazid Dr. A. Belal

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Flashback – March 2, 2005

Cheers Cheers to the City of Estevan for inviting Elon Musk to view carbon capture and storage technology at SaskPower’s Boundary Dam Unit 3 (BD3).

We have the world’s first fully integrated and fullchain CCS facility on a coal-fired power plant and it most definitely should be recognized.

Cheers to Sobey’s customers who donated $3,084 to Toonies for Tummies, and supported local schools’ breakfast programs.

Cheers to the free postcard campaign from Canada Post. Who doesn’t like getting a positive note in the mail?

Cheers to the Estevan Curling Club for organizing the steak supper on Friday night. It was fun, which is something we haven’t had a lot of during the past year.

Cheers to the front-line healthcare workers and the other essential workers who have done yeomen’s work during the past year to continue to meet the needs of the public despite the challenges and ever-changing restrictions we have faced.

Cheers to the St. Joseph’s Healthcare Auxiliary for paying down their purchase of 38 long-term care beds in about two years. It’s amazing the things that this group of women continues to do.

Three members of Wylie-Mitchell Air Cadet Squadron No.30 of Estevan competed in the squadron effective speaking speak-off in March 2005. From left, Brett Thompson, Melora Haselhan and Daniel Giesen were the finalists with Giesen earning the right to advance to the zone finals, which were later held in Regina.

Jeers Jeers to the writer of the column regarding the weight and the body positivity movement in last week’s Mercury. Misinformation regarding the personal health of millions of people completely nullifies so-called expertise on the matter.

Jeers to trains blaring their horns several times at the railway crossings in the middle of the night. One night there were several trains, and one of these trains blared their horn six times at the city location.

Jeers to the fact that it’s been a year since the damn pandemic began. For a lot of people it’s a year of their lives that they’re never going to get back.

To submit a cheer or a jeer, please email it to dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca, or visit www.estevanmercury.ca.

Sometimes it takes a mountain

By Linda Wegner

Well, I’ll admit it, it was a tough week; even as we look forward to upcoming vaccinations and, as health officials assure us, a “light at the end of the tunnel,” my friends and I have found ourselves “climbing mountains.”

A fire in our son’s garage destroyed months and countless dollars spent on restoring a Firebird vehicle.

Then, news came that a dear friend and former work partner is battling cancer in his spine. Learning that there are several cases of COVID in our immediate area made me tighten my mask and

Linda Wegner Words of Worth extend my distancing to more than six feet. As I said, I admit I’ve found myself knocked for a loop.

In the midst of all that, I found myself listening to a most beautiful and inspiring song on my computer that both lifted my spirits and provided thoughts on what I want to share with you in this week’s article.

A beautiful rendition of

the song Sometimes it Takes a Mountain brought tears to my eyes and courage to my emotions. Here are just a few words of the piece: “Sometimes it takes a mountain, sometimes a troubled sea. Sometimes it takes a desert to get a hold of me. Your love is so much stronger than whatever troubles me. Sometimes it takes a mountain, to trust You

and believe” (Mark Mathes, music minister at Crossway Baptist Church, penned the Dove Award-nominated song).

When facing difficulties and churning emotions, we have the choice as to how we respond. While so many events are out of our control, knowing that the love and care of Jesus toward us never changes, provides much needed courage.

How about you? Between the emotions generated by a year’s worth of COVID restrictions, personal struggles and world conditions, remember God’s there to support you in your mountainous climb.

Success adds up Brooklyn Fitzpatrick

Wicklow Centre

Quaife Coins

Estevan, SK

306-421-3787

Trade your gold and silver jewelry, coins, and vintage money for cash!  Visit us Tuesday - Friday 10-4; or by appointment

Brennan McClelland

Success is the result of perseverance, hard work and ability to capitalize on opportunities. MNP Estevan proudly congratulates Brooklyn Fitzpatrick and Brennan McClelland on successfully completing CPA Canada’s 2020 Common Final Exam. As leading national accounting and business consulting firm, here are two ways we can help your business succeed.

Daryl Donovan, CPA, CA 306.637.2325 | daryl.donovan@mnp.ca MNP.ca

kids speak What is a tip for healthy living?

Hunter Sands

Age: 8 “I always exercise. I usually run laps.”

Mason Fonstad

Age: 8 “Never sit on the couch and play video games.”

421 King St #3, Estevan, SK I 306-634-3244

www.scotsburndental.com

A22 March 10, 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

CITY OF ESTEVAN 2020 Notice to consumers for Water Quality Estevan Waterworks

We would like to celebrate the achievements of Women in our Community. Thanks to their efforts our community is stronger.

Call 306-634-1822 for further explanation Parameter

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.

Tuesday

Turbidity is a measure of the clarity of the water. For our water supply, turbidity shall not exceed 0.3 NTU from any filter.

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM

7:00 am - 7:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am

LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM

8:00 am - 8:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am

AQUA AWE

AQUA AWE

AQUA AWE

AQUA AWE

AQUA AWE

AQUA AWE

A.I.S

AQUA AWE

A.I.S

AQUA AWE

Fluoride (off-site testing) Levels not to exceed 1.5 mg/l

Chlorine Residual (on-site)

LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM

CLOSED

Chlorine is added to disinfect the water and the levels must be maintained at a chloramine residual greater then 0.5 mg/l and free ammonia of>0.1 mg/l < 0.5 mg/l throughout the distribution system.

9:15 am -10:00 am 9:15 am -10:00 am 9:15 am -10:00 am 9:15 am -10:00 am 9:15 am -10:00 am 10:15 am -11:00 am 10:15 am - 11:00 am 10:15 am -11:00 am 10:15 am - 11:00 am 10:15 am -11:00 am

A.I.S

A.I.S

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

AFTERNOON

LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm

AQUA AWE AQUA AWE LANE SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm LANE SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm LANE SWIM pm - 2:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:15 pm 1:15 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm A.I.S A.I.S 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm & SURF & SURF & SURF & SURF & LANE SWIM SURF SWIM SWIM SWIM SWIM SWIM 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm FAMILY SWIM

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

FREE SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm “Sponsored by the Estevan Lions Club

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

RED CROSS RED CROSS RED CROSS RED CROSS RED CROSS LANE SWIM LESSONS LESSONS LESSONS LESSONS LESSONS 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 5:00 pm - 5:45 pm EVENING PRIVATE

PRIVATE

PRIVATE

PRIVATE

DEEP WATER BOOKING BOOKING BOOKING BOOKING POWER 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm LANE SWIM PRIVATE LANE SWIM PRIVATE 9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

BOOKING

9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

BOOKING

LANE SWIM

FAMILY SWIM

6:15 pm - 7:00 pm *NOT FEb 26 or MAR 26

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

PUBLIC SWIM

7:15 pm - 9:00 pm

Bicarbonate calcium, carbonate, chloride, conductivity, hardness, magnesium, nitrate, PH, sodium, sulphate, and total dissolved solids, aluminium, arsenic, barium, boron, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, selenium, uranium, and zinc

PLEASE NOTE - Due to the pandemic-related protocols fitness registration has moved to a PRE-Registration process. Users must pre-register online or by calling the Information Desk.

Patrons will be screened upon arrival and asked a few questions as per the Operational Health and Safety Guidelines. Drop in is available for the weight room. Space between workout stations have either increased or a machine has been put into 'not in use.' Water fountains are not available.

?

154 Regular Samples

222

0

A sample after each main repair or construction

18

0

1. After each filter on a continuous basis.

1. Continuous

2. Daily from the storage reservoir before entering the distribution system

2. Every 2 hours

0

0

3. Completed for the bacteriological samples

0

365

630

0

52

52

0

1. Every 4 hours per day for treated water entering the distribution system

1. Every 2 hours operators perform an analysis and monitored continuously

0

2. Completed for the bacteriological samples 190 samples and 304 spot checks

0

4

4

0

1 every 2 years

1

0

8

8

0

2. At the same frequency and locations as for bacteriological sampling, for free and total residuals

Pesticides and Organics Atrazine, Bromoxynil, Carbofuran, Chlorpyrifos, Dicamba, 2,4-D, Diclofop-methyl, Dimethoate, Malathion, MCPA Pentachlorophenol, Picoram, Trifluralin

Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM’s) THM’s are a disinfection by-product and are not an immediate risk but over time THM ingestion a suspected carcinogen. Each individual sample is not to exceed 350 ppb and annual average not to exceed 100ppb

Cyanide and Mercury Haloacetic Acids (HAA)

Don’t see what you are looking for?

Do you have an idea for something we should try?

Please contact the Program Manager at 306-634-1880.

We would love to hear your ideas!

Number of Tests Not Meeting the Permit in 2020

Chemical - General

A.I.S

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

Number of Tests Completed in 2020

3. At the same frequency and locations as for bacteriological samples.

Fluoride is added as a dental aid. Levels are not to exceed 1.5 mg/l

6:00 am - 6:45 am 6:00 am - 6:45 am 6:00 am - 6:45 am 6:00 am - 6:45 am 6:00 am - 6:45 am

CLOSED

Turbidity (on-site)

Fluoride (on-site)

EFFECTIVE - February 22 - April 1, 2021 Monday

A harmless form of bacteria called Total Coliform is routinely monitored in the distributed water. If found, coliform show a break down in the disinfection process or possible outside contamination. Positive results require additional testing to test for pathogens

ESTEVAN LEISURE CENTRE - 2021

AQUATIC SCHEDULE Sunday

Bacteriological

Required Testing by Permit each year

Schedule Subject to Change. Please visit www.estevan.ca for updates on closures and cancellations. Proper footwear and exercise wear is required to participate. Please note during school breaks, (Teachers Convention, Spring break and Christmas break) Fitness, Aquatic Centre and Arena schedules may vary. Please visit our live schedules at www.estevan.ca

We switched to Rafferty water source and after the new source of water was online we saw a significant reduction in our disinfection byproducts.

1

1

0

8

8

average under the max limit

1 every 2 years

1

0

One sample per summer month

8

0

Continuously

Continuously

0

once a week

52

0

Organics Benzene, Benzo(a)pyrene, Carbontetrachloride, Dichlorobenzene, Dichloroethane, Dichloropjenol, Ethylbenzene, Monochlorobenzene, Perfluorooctanesulfonatet Perfluorooctanoic Acid, Tetrachloroethylene. Tetrachlorophenol 2,3,4,6, Toluene, Trichlorowethylene, Trichlorophenol 2,4,6, Vinyl chloride, Xylene

Microcystin LR or total Microcystin toxins Ultraviolet Intensity Ultraviolet Intensity (mW/cm2) of each lamp, Lamp Status, and flow rate through cells

Ultraviolet Transmittance On-site testing of transmittance at 54 nm Wavelength

The City of Estevan Water Treatment Plant is a surface water plant that focuses on the removal of suspended solids and the inactivation of pathogenic organisms through a multiple barrier approach, i.e. chemical aided settling, filtration, disinfection. All limits that each parameter must be within, comes from the Environmental Protection Act 2002 and associated Regulations to that Act. Go to www.saskh2o.ca for details and a complete listing of all levels throughout the province. A full detailed listing of all the levels of these parameters as well as the Waterworks Annual Report is located at www.estevan.ca or is available at the Estevan Library and City Hall.