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APP. This photo of the Northern Lights was taken by Byron Fichter of Byron Fichter Fotography just west of Lampman on Saturday night. Southeast Saskatchewan residents had a rare opportunity to view the aurora borealis, and local photographers were eager to snap photos. A pumpjack and the lights of the town, combined with the lights, created quite a scene.

Estevan’s spending per capita has remained stable in recent years By David Willberg

A new report released by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) shows the amount that municipalities are spending on a per capita basis in Saskatchewan, and it paints an interesting picture for Estevan. The CTF grouped communities into five different classifications, with one for Regina and Saskatoon, another for the small cities, including Estevan, and then towns and rural municipalities. The CTF did not release figures for villages and northern municipalities due to a small sample size of available data. It also didn’t calculate per person spending for resort villages due to dramatic population fluctuation in many of these communities. The CTF also examines how the

numbers have changed from 2017-2019, using audited financial statements. (Numbers for 2020 would not be available as of yet). And while there are some discrepancies in terms of population, and some glaring data entry errors (Bienfait’s population was listed as 4,597 for 2017), it offers a snapshot of spending over a three-year span. In the case of Estevan, it ranked third in spending per capita from 2017-2019 among Saskatchewan small cities, but the spending has remained consistent. The cit y ’s expenses were at $31,030,403, or $2,756 per capita, based on a population of 11,258 from the 2016 census. Spending number grew slightly to $31,087,937, or $2,761 per capita, in 2018. Expenses for the city increased to

$31,537,340 in 2019, but the CTF used a different population figure for Estevan of 11,483, leaving spending for the city at $2,746 per person. The 2019 expenses would include expenses associated with the water intake project that shifted the city’s primary water source from Boundary Dam to Rafferty Dam. Estevan received millions of dollars from the federal and provincial governments for the project. However, the CTF report does not account for projects made possible through government grants. Swift Current led the province’s small cities in per capita spending in all three years, and was at $3,718 per person in 2019. The next four cities in 2019, including Estevan, were separated by $48 per capita. A2 » TAXPAYERS

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Local volunteer search and rescue organization received a generous donation from Estevan business The South East Saskatchewan Search and Rescue (SESK SAR) chapter keeps steadily building up its resources, thanks to generous local organizations and businesses. The latest addition to SESK SAR's equipment came from a local trailer dealership, which supplied the organization with a smaller trailer that will be utilized by the training committee. Prairie Dawg Sales and Rentals owner Robin Holma said that when Krista Larson, SESK SAR training committee co-chair, reached out to him, he didn't think twice about the donation. "I did it to support local and it's a legitimate cause, so it was easy," Holma said. The small company provided other donations to different local organizations before, but nothing as big as a trailer. Larson said she was scrolling through Facebook when she saw the

company's ad. She decided she would take a shot and reach out to them to see if they would be interested in helping SESK SAR. And it worked out well. "It's going to be a really good thing for us because pretty much any SUV can hook up to this," Larson said. Once the paperwork is done, SESK SAR will pick up the donated trailer and put the Prairie Dawg Sales and Rentals logo on it to thank the business for the donation. "SESK SAR is really grateful to Robin Holma, the owner of Prairie Dawg Rentals, for a very, very generous donation of this trailer that our chapter will utilize with our training committee. It will contribute to the services we provide to all of the southeast communities that we serve," said SESK SAR president Katia Bigney. The smaller trailer will be used for training purposes as well as for agility equipment for dogs training, once the search and rescue canine unit is off the ground this spring.

SESK SAR training committee co-chair Krista Larson and Prairie Dawg Sales and Rentals owner Robin Holma stand by the trailer donated to the volunteer organization.

Taxpayers federation wants more transparency « A1 Mayor Roy Ludwig said he expects to see the city’s overall ranking in spending per person decline, as it has been holding the line on expenses in recent years. “We’re not looking at more expenses as we continue to hold the line on taxes,” said Ludwig. He pointed out that the

municipal portion of property taxes increased just one per cent in 2018, and remained unchanged since then. “I think over time you will see us at a lower level,” said Ludwig. “Once we get our debt paid, we will have roughly $5 million a year (to spend) that we don’t have now. It will free us up for more things

without going to the taxpayers. It will allow us to do more things without having to go to the taxpayers for anything extra that we do.” The city’s debt has been dropping most years since 2014, but there is still a lot of money tied up in both the debt principle and interest. “Once we have our debt

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paid, that will free us up to continue to … hold the line on our tax increases,” said Ludwig. As a city’s debt rises, they have no manoeuverability when it comes to tax increases or infrastructure projects, because they’re so hamstrung with heavy debt load they have to pay down. “You’re obligated, you have to pay your debt back, so the more debt you’re carrying, the more of a millstone it is around your neck. It’s somewhat unsettling for those that have a huge debt owed, because it has to be paid back,” the mayor said. The mayor found it interesting to see how much the different municipalities were spending, and how it has changed over a three-year span. The RM of Estevan has seen its expenses decline annually from 2017-2019. With a population of 1,370, the RM had listed expenses of $4,317,778 in 2017 ($3,152 per capita), $4,248,197 in 2018 ($3,101 per capita) and $4,213,793 in 2019 ($3,076 per capita). Todd MacKay, the Prai-

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rie director for the CTF, said this report isn’t a detailed analysis of spending in each municipality, because it would take thousands of hours to sort through everything. “There’s going to be some situations where different municipalities account for things differently, and I think that’s natural in a situation like this, but we’re just trying to get out some of that information, create a little bit more transparency out there, get the conversation going, and most importantly, point out that the provincial government really needs to be sharing this information,” said MacKay. It’s time for municipalities to post these documents online, so that people can do more analysis and delve into questions more closely. MacKay pointed out that some municipalities still require ratepayers to drop by the municipal office to pick up these documents. MacKay said communities had ample time to submit audited financial statements to the CTF. “In some cases, there might be some reasons for that. There are small com-

munities where they struggle with the internet access and stuff like that.” Other provinces post all of this information online proactively, and MacKay believes it’s time for Saskatchewan to follow suit. MacKay defended the CTF’s decision to lump in all of the expenses into one large pot, such as with Estevan’s water intake project – a project that the city has said previously wouldn’t have happened without support from the different levels of government. After all, according to MacKay, all of the money still comes from taxpayers, even if it’s not Estevan. “One way or the other, we need to have that accountability to show how much municipal governments are spending so that they can be accountable to taxpayers,” MacKay said. Among the findings that caught his attention was that a lot of rural municipalities have reduced their spending. “You don’t often hear about governments spending less money, so on the off chance that you do see that, it’s always kind of nice to see,” said McKay.

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Saskatchewan’s Lost Girl Ashlyn George got the best out of March in the Estevan area By Ana Bykhovskaia Popular travel blogger and influencer Ashlyn George recently gave Estevan a visit to explore the best the Energy City has to offer in March. The Mercury talked to the former Saskatchewanderer and the author behind The Lost Girl's Guide to Finding the World blog about her experience. She was invited to explore the Estevan area by Tourism Estevan. After the visit, in her Instagram account, George wrote "Estevan is a mecca for those who love the outdoors!" Even though there are many outdoor options in the area, being a content creator, George chose the option that most people would call out of the ordinary. An active runner, while in Estevan she couldn't resist doing some running, but she added a bit of a twist to it. "On the first day that I arrived, I met a group of local runners at the Boundary Dam Reservoir in the Woodlawn Regional Park, and we all went for a five-kilometre run. And since Boundary Dam has open water throughout the winter season, we did a polar dip after we finished the run," George said with a laugh. Even though the water wasn't frozen, it still felt freezingly cold, turning a routine workout into a real adventure. "We all ran together and right into the water. It was very, very cold, but it was really refreshing and just a lot of fun." The group could keep their distance and had a great time together, while still keeping it safe. George tried polar dips a few times before, including once in Antarctica. So the Estevan experience wasn't completely new for her, but it was as great. "I think it's extra cool to do it in Saskatchewan because in the wintertime you don't have open water available to do that. So the Boundary Dam is such a unique location to be able to go and do something like

this," George said. An experienced adventure seeker, George also offered a few tips to people willing to try out polar dips. "Don't think too much about it, just go and do it. It's easier to do it with friends or family than doing it by yourself. And afterwards, make sure that you have a really warm towel to dry off with. I also recommend bringing a pair of sandals down with you, because you may not want to put your wet feet back into your shoes." George's second day in Estevan was no less exciting, as she went out ice kayaking with Brady Johnson, who runs Encompass Fitness in Estevan and also is a long-time friend. The friends paddled through open water towards the areas still covered with ice, checking out shorelines and the ice. "I've never winter ice kayaked before, so it was a lot of fun to do that," George shared. "One thing I do want to mention, too, with winter kayaking, is you do need to be prepared for it in terms of safety and wearing proper closing." George added that if anything was to happen and they would end up in the water, the appropriate gear and equipment they had on them would give them time to either get back into the kayaks or get to shore safely. "Safety with winter kayaking is a big thing," George said. The third day in the area saw George exploring the outskirts. Not new to Estevan, she still had something to discover. The Back Roads of Estevan audio tour took her to some locations that she's never seen before, including the Woodend viewpoint and the former Riverbend Nursery bridge. "It was a really cool experience to see all these places and locations. I didn't know them, so I got to explore them and shared them on social media with everybody who follows along there. "The Back Roads Tour is really fantastic. It's structured easy and in

a social distancing-friendly way, allowing to get outside and do some exploring." George also found it beneficial that the app allowed her to choose between listening and reading the information. Later the same day, George and Johnson picked up lunch from Fired up Grill and went to some spill piles for a picnic. "It was really cool wandering in there. I'm an avid hiker as well, so it was great wandering up and down the piles and seeing the viewpoints," George recalled. They also checked out a suspension bridge east of Estevan. In her blog, George wrote, "The trick to finding these places is to ask the locals!" George also had some time to indulge in food from different Estevan restaurants. She couldn’t pass by Michael's Coffeeshop and Bakery, and the famous cinnamon buns along with great coffee and outstanding atmosphere not only roped her in there a few times but also made her travel further and check out the Carlyle location. "It was so good. I also thought that it was so wonderful that he is now roasting his own coffee at the Estevan location too," said George. She also checked out the awardwinning pizzas at the Tower Café. "I tried their dill pickle pizza because I thought it was a really unique menu item. And then I've heard so much about the Tower special that I wanted to try that as well … It was wonderful … I see why people would fly out of Saskatchewan taking Tower pizza with them to their loved ones George also tried out the Estevan roll and a Bento box at Jino's, which she also found delicious. "It was fantastic. I can't wait to come back and eat there again." All in all, George said, “It was a wonderful time to come and visit. I honestly can't wait to come back, because I still feel that there is so much to see and do in the area."

A group of runners joined Ashlyn George for a five-kilometre run and then a polar dip at Boundary Dam. Photo submitted

Popular blogger Ashlyn Goorge visited Estevan and checked out the Boundary Dam reservoir. Photo submitted

Ashlyn Goerge spent some time exploring the Estevan area, and for the first time, stopped by the suspension bridge not far from town. Photo submitted

Ashlyn George tried out ice kayaking, which was a new experience for avid adventurer George. Photo submitted

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

Be smart with the gathering sizes It was an announcement that people had been waiting to hear: the provincial government was increasing the number of people allowed for private indoor gatherings from five to 10. The restriction had been one of the most disliked that we’ve seen since the pandemic hit Saskatchewan more than a year ago. It was particularly contentious at Christmas time, when families used to big gatherings had to keep their numbers low. If you had more than five people in your immediate family (say, two parents and four children) you could still have supper together, but nobody else in the home. And if you have a family of four, you could have one other person in your home. But a family of five wasn’t supposed to have an extra person in their home. We’re not sure how vigilant this was followed, and if someone would actually rat their neighbour out if a family of five brought two more people into their home. But if there were 20 people gathered in a home, it was a big Public Health fine waiting to happen, even on Christmas. So we’re now up to 10 people for a private gathering. Sure the government talks about a limited number of bubbles, but how would you enforce that? You might get a few people who will be opposed to this, who think that we’re moving

too soon to ease this particular restriction. You’ll also have some who think that we should be able to have more than 10. But a lot would likely say 10 is a reasonable number at this time. And as long as we’re smart, the increase to 10 people shouldn’t result in a surge in case numbers. Lost in the shuffle of last week’s announcement was that churches could have up to 150 people present or 30 per cent capacity, whichever is lower, effective March 19. It’s a return to the number of people allowed in churches last summer, before Saskatchewan experienced a spike in the number of cases. The increase in numbers for churches seems like on experiment. The province clamped down on a lot of activities and businesses last fall, including restaurants, retail outlets, movie theatres, gyms, casinos and bingo halls. It also imposed limitations on arenas and churches. If you increase the number of people allowed in retail or restaurants or movie theatres, or if you reopen casinos, then everyone else will wonder “Why these businesses, but not us?” But if you allow for more people in churches, well, at least it’s a non-profit that has fewer restrictions. Saskatchewan churches have been fairly respectful of these restrictions. Many didn’t open up for live services right away last spring once people were allowed to gather together and worship again.

There was the one super spreader in Prince Albert last fall, but Saskatchewan hasn’t had the issues with a few outlaw churches like in Manitoba. And if you don’t have a surge in cases from churches reopening, then hopefully larger numbers will be allowed in other areas. At the same time, it is ironic that a church that seats 500 can have 150 people, while Affinity Place, which seats close to 2,700, is limited to 30. It’s also encouraging that the Estevan Comprehensive School and the Weyburn Comprehensive School can now have all students in classes every day once again, as opposed to have half of their students learning from home each day. With our numbers as low as they are in the southeast, it was frustrating that they couldn’t all be in school each day. This gradual loosening of restrictions is encouraging. For those of us in the province’s South East Zone 4, we’ve often had a singledigit case count. While the rest of the province was being hit hard in late 2020 and early 2021, our numbers were fairly steady, even though we have more people than most rural sub-zones. If we play it smart, then hopefully we can keep our caseloads stable, and start to see more people allowed in restaurants and retail. If we think we know better than the medical experts, then we’ll lose some of the gains we’ve just made.

Did your phone also try to outsmart you? Last Sunday my phone took up the reins of power and switched to summer time, rudely stating that I was already an hour behind the schedule. I guess I put in the wrong time-zone settings when I was installing or updating the system but it took me a few moments to understand why the time on the alarm clock was different from the phone. This little accident reminded me of good old university years back in Russia, when I used the time manipulations to excuse the sleep-ins, as well as a few situations when I actually forgot to adjust the clock and had wonderful dates with myself and a cup of coffee waiting for others to come on time – an hour later. So far, most of my life I’ve lived changing a clock to daylight saving time and adjusting it back to wintertime every year. At some point, about 10 years ago now, the Russian government decided to change this custom for the entire country, so the population stopped in the summertime. I assume that for some regions it was fine, but St. Petersburg has 60 sunny days a year on average, and some of them fall on winter days. So when we all started getting up an hour earlier than before in winter, I felt that the sun completely gave up on us and left for California. It was yet pitch-dark when I would get up to go to work, and it was already dark when I left the office. And that would last for a good five-six months. Not that long after, the government heard people's prayers, or probably just got sick of living in the dark for half of the year, and changed its mind. The clock was thawed out. According to surveys conducted at the time, two-thirds of the population didn't

Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About… want to see time changing twice a year again. And starting in 2014, most of Russia froze in the wintertime. Several regions opted in for summertime, but it seemed that by 2018 all constituent territories of the federation or simply states settled with their time and quit changing it every year. When I came to Saskatchewan, the Russian-wide debate about the clock was still ongoing. So when someone simply explained the situation here saying that Saskatchewan doesn't observe the daylight saving time (which is the case since 1959, by the way) because the rest of the world is turning on it, I had a good laugh and felt my first sympathy for this province. But in general, the talks about the pros and cons of daylight saving time are way older than me. It's so old that you would think by now we should have had an answer. Nevertheless, supporters and opponents of summer and winter times lifestyle still have something to say, which results in more research and more experiments regularly occurring at different parts of the world and also regularly proving that first ones and then the others were right. The debate in general is pretty simple. Those supporting the switch to summertime state that this allows to rationally use the daylight, which helps to save energy. Opponents on the other side are sure

that there is no economy in it. Moreover, they believe that the change of clocks twice a year results in extra expenses, because on top of all the clocks nowadays, we have to reset and readjust all types of equipment systems and operations. This group also points out that no matter how many years countries have been changing times, some people there still miss out on the date and end up being too late or too early for work the following day. The hottest disputes occur among medical professionals. Some doctors are sure that time manipulations are negatively affecting our biorhythms, which makes us feel worse. Some believe that the wintertime is closer to astronomical and thus better for the life and health of people. Surveys show that in many places in the world, more people support this view, as they notice that they feel different when they have to readjust their natural schedules twice a year. Other medical pros are confident that changing clock plays no role in the way we feel, and astronomical time is not that important in the world of progress, where we don't rely on natural factors as much as we used to. While the arguments are straightforward, ways of proving the position keep developing and changing. I never really liked adjusting both the clock and my body, which doesn't appreciate me messing up with its settled schedule. So the Saskatchewan style, which soon became a new reality in St. Petersburg as well, always appealed to me. And once I fixed my phone last Sunday, I closed my eyes and happily let my body relax, being sincerely grateful for the province's choice in the time debate.

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Mary Jacobs’ photography selected for a provincial award

David Willberg Willberg’s World

Horses named Estevan, Weyburn and … Edenwold For the first time in years, I should have bet on something connected to Weyburn. A thoroughbred named Weyburn won the recent Gotham Stakes, a fairly prominent stakes race at Aqueduct Race Track in Queens, N.Y. The bonus? Weyburn had 46:1 odds, which would have likely been the same odds as the Weyburn Red Wings winning the 2020-21 SJHL title, if we could legitimately bet on junior hockey. The Gotham Stakes is a race for three-year-old thoroughbreds, and it’s one of the races that counts to qualifying for the Kentucky Derby. The win at Gotham doesn’t guarantee Weyburn a spot at the Kentucky Derby, but it won’t hurt his cause, either. You might wonder how Weyburn has a horse carrying its name. The three-year-old is owned by Robert and Mark Krembil, a father-son operation that owns Chiefswood Stables in Schomberg, Ont. As it turns out, the elder Krembil grew up in Grenfell, and they’ve named thoroughbreds after Saskatchewan communities. Yorkton, one of their most successful horses, won seven races in 30 starts and earned more than $546,000 in his career. They haven’t had a horse named Estevan, and while I think it would be great, there is a complicating factor. It’s been well-known that I’m an avid horse racing fan. I went to the track for the first time when I was 13 on Father’s Day in 1992, picked a couple of winners, and was hooked. Believe it or not, according to the Equibase website (the all-encompassing reference site for horse racing), there have been four thoroughbreds named Estevan. Three of them never raced, including one born in 1958. But a horse named Estevan, foaled in 2001, won six times in 42 races, including stakes races, and generated more than $412,000 in winnings, during a career that spanned from 20032008. Most of his winnings came at the famed Woodbine Race Track in Toronto, but he raced throughout North America. Worth noting is that Estevan the horse was owned by James and Alice Sapara for most of his career. He’s their second-best horse, trailing only Edenwold, who was Canada’s champion two-year-old in 2005 and won the Queen’s Plate in 2006. The Saparas also raced Carnduff, Maryfield and Vibank, among others that had Saskatchewan names. Since Chiefswood is based in Ontario, and since Estevan had most of his success at Woodbine, that might prevent them from having a horse named Estevan. But we are due. There’s a rule in racing that you have to wait 10 years after a horse is finished to have another horse with that name on that continent. It’s to avoid confusion. Since Saparas’ Estevan retired in 2008, you can now have another horse named after the Energy City in North America. If Chiefswood is skittish about confusion, maybe they could use a well-known local landmark, such as Boundary Dam. Or maybe they could name a horse Rafferty. Or they could go with one of our surrounding communities, like Bienfait or Roche Percee. Roche Percee Rocks would be a great name for a horse. There was a horse named Oxbow that ran in the 2013 Kentucky Derby, and then won the second leg of the Triple Crown, which is the Preakness Stakes. (I lost big on Oxbow in the Derby, so I went with another horse in the Preakness. Should have stayed local). One of the other naming rules for thoroughbreds is you can’t name a horse that shares the name of a Triple Crown race winner. So you’ll never see a North American horse named Secretariat, American Pharoah or Oxbow again. You also can`t reuse the name of a famous horse, such as Seabiscuit. People often wonder how horses get their name. In some cases, it’s based on the racing names of the horse’s parents. In other cases, there’s a sentimental reason, or it’s just simply fun or cute. Any race name has to go through the Jockey Club for approval. While the officials will have some leeway for names that are risqué, you can’t have a horse whose name crosses the line of good taste. I hope Weyburn finds its way into the Kentucky Derby. It would likely have incredibly long odds, even longer than the 46:1 it had in the Gotham Stakes, but Mine that Bird had 50:1 odds when it won in 2009. The good folks at Chiefswood have earned the right to have one of their horses in the derby. And if they ever have a horse named Estevan, I’m sure it would be even better than Weyburn.

This photo taken by Estevan’s Mary Jacobs has been selected for a provincial award by the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation.

By David Willberg Mary Jacobs is wellknown locally for her love of photography. She has been seen taking photos at many events over the years. She was the long-time chair of the domestics show at the Estevan Exhibition Association’s fair. She’s also a member of the South East Saskatchewan Photo Club, and she is a perennial winner in the photography contest offered by the Estevan Wildlife Federation. Now she’s been recognized at the provincial level for her skills. Jacobs took top spot in the wildlife category at the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation’s (SWF) annual photography contest, for a photo of a couple of pheasants in a field. The winner was revealed by the SWF recently. She has finished second and third in the provincial contest previously, but has never taken top spot. “Every so often, a bunch of us would go out driving, looking for wildlife pictures, and this one day, we were driving down the road, and there was a group of pheasants that had crossed the road,” Jacobs told the Mercury. “There were three of them. Two wanted to fight and the other watched. So we stopped and we took pictures out of the car, and they wouldn’t pay any attention to us. I’m not sure what they were fighting about, because it wasn’t breeding season.” The tiff involving the birds continued for about

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go to Alaska and photograph the bears, and I’ve gone to Churchill (Manitoba) once, because I’m kind of a bear person.” Wildlife takes up most of her photography time. Many people in the South Sask. Photo Club enjoy taking photos of the Northern Lights and other scenery, but Jacobs loves wildlife. The club hasn’t been able to have their monthly meetings at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but those who like to take photos of wildlife still meet up for an interesting afternoon of taking photos. “You learn from each other,” said Jacobs. “I was just looking at a thing on the computer, with ideas of good things to learn for photography, and that was one of the keys, go out as a group, because you learn from each other.”

Mary Jacobs is a long-time photographer in the Estevan area. File photo

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“We had a lot of great photos there, and it was probably a pretty tough decision on everyone’s behalf to try to pick two winners out of the group,” said Crabbe. This year’s SWF convention was held digitally. “We set up a gallery and had people go into the gallery and they picked their top winner. Then, of course, we tally all of those votes, and we’re able to pick from first to sixth,” said Crabbe. The scenery photo can’t have any wildlife in it. Jacobs believes she started with her photography in 1985. She always had an interest in the art form, but she lived on a farm and didn’t have a good camera. When she moved into Estevan, she found a quality camera and started to learn. “I think I’m addicted to wildlife,” said Jacobs. “I’ve been to Africa, and I did a lot of photography. And I used to

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15 minutes. Jacobs loved the photo because it showed the activity of the two birds. “A lot of times, I get … portrait-type pictures with not a lot of action, and this one the action was there,” she said. She believes she entered 10 or 12 photos for the local competition offered by the EWF for pictures taken in 2020. Her pheasant picture was then sent on to provincials. Darrell Crabbee, the executive director of the SWF, said they had a lot of interest for this year’s province-wide photo contest. “I think there was people that had a little more spare time on their hands, and hopefully spent it outside enjoying the outdoors. Certainly photography is one of our key areas in the province,” said Crabbee. Jacobs’ first place finish was well-deserved, he said. Each wildlife federation branch traditionally has its own photography competition, with separate wildlife and scenery categories. “We have 125 branches in the province, so each branch usually has a number of photos that are submitted to them, and they usually have a voting system in place that determines the top two from each one of those branches,” said Crabbee. It means there are hundreds of high-quality photos to choose from, creating a tough decision for the delegates who attended the SWF’s convention. They vote to decide the top six finishers in the two categories. Typically the convention attracts 200-225 people.

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Owners of proposed car wash make appeal to council private equity groups, family offices, funds managers, institutional funds, A parcel of land on Nesbitt high net worth individuals, but the Drive was purchased back in 2013 recurring concerns are market size, with the intention of creating a economic conditions, population multi-bay, eco-friendly vehicle decline and more. wash business called the RockTheir lot has been allocated a N-Wash. taxable value of $843,7000 since But that property has never 2017, resulting in annual taxes in been developed, and now the people excess of $17,2000, which Blouin who own the land have come to said is unjustifiable considering the Estevan city council, looking for downturn in the economy, a wide some form of assistance. 10-metre easement in the middle Darr yl Mack and Sylvain of their property and the available Blouin spoke to council at the lots for $1. March 8 meeting, with Mack apThe easement reduces the value pearing in council chambers and of the property and increases the Blouin speaking via video feed from construction cost. Edmonton. In a presentation that Blouin asked for a tax abatelasted about 40 minutes, they spoke ment on the property retroactive about the challenges they have to 2018, as the $843,700 valuation faced over the past eight years, and is “unrealistic” considering the answered questions from council circumstances. members. And since they did not com“A lot of things that people mence construction within the don’t understand about this city is 180 days outlined in a purchase it’s always been a strong place to do agreement that was enclosed, they business, and we want to make sure, requested a return of the balance of somehow, we can get this business the purchase price. off the ground,” Mack told council. “We would purchase the lot In a letter to council, Blouin back from the city for $1 and wrote the lots adjacent to their leverage the remaining capital as property in the Glen Peterson In- equity towards construction,” Bldustrial Park are now available for ouin wrote. $1. They paid $590,105, plus GST, Blouin said they could have for their parcel. asked for a refund in 2014 or 2015, “The lenders/underwriters are but instead they have tried to find no longer considering our $590,105 investors for the project. plus GST as equity into the project, He’s also not upset that the as they know the asset is not worth city is selling lots for $1 each; in that kind of value on the market, fact, he applauds them for thinking with similar lots selling for $1 ad- outside of the box to attract busijacent to our property,” said Blouin. ness to the community. Since 2014, they have hired “We are dealing with a very five different capital brokers, and abnormal situation here. The fact they’ve reached out to over 295 that we bought from the city, the

By David Willberg

city back then was not selling the lots for a dollar, obviously. We’re not dealing with the same economic fundamentals back then that we are now,” said Blouin. Blouin has talked to current and former economic development workers in Estevan about what is happening in the city, the options they have and goals for the business. He has also talked to Community Futures Sunrise, the Ocean Man First Nation, local entrepreneurs, Doug Griffiths with 13 Ways and others. “When I visited the Estevan community for the first time in 2012 … I loved it. And that’s why, up until now, we haven’t given up,” said Blouin. Councillor Travis Frank wanted to know how much the vehicle wash would cost to build, and how many people would be employed.

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Blouin responded that they have had to scale back expectations. They were looking at a $7 million facility with an automatic truck wash and 16 bays, but that is no longer realistic. Now they’d have 10 self-wash bays and one truck bay with the caveat that when the economy improves, they could add a second bay, because they have the room on their lot. “This project, right now, would be a $2 million project. We would work with Frametech, is what we had in mind,” said Blouin. “Originally we were going to go to precast concrete manufacturer outside of the city.” With the high moisture content of a car wash, the building could rust several years down the road, so they don’t want pre-cast concrete.

Frank also wanted to see the full contract between the city and Rock-N-Wash because he’s never seen a lot purchase agreement like the one signed in 2013. Rock-N-Wash would have seven or eight employees, between full-time and part-time staff. They would also have the option of having a vehicle detailing division in the facility. Councillor Shelly Veroba pointed out that those who purchase a parcel for $1 have to meet a lot of conditions. The build has to start, the employees have to be in place and they can’t sell it for an extended period of time. Councillor Tony Sernick asked why they wanted to purchase the land. Mack praised the location. “It’s on an industrial, paved section of the city. It ’s at the Kensington-Nesbitt intersection, with easy access, four lanes and Walmart’s just next door. The hotels are there.” You don’t have to go to the bypass or out on a gravel road to reach the site. “We want to be seen. We don’t want to be stuffed away in the corner somewhere,” Mack said. Blouin said they still want to pursue this venture, as they believe in the facility which would be environmentally friendly, the water recycling and net zero electrical consumption. But they have two options: go bankrupt, or work with city council to find a solution. Council tabled the request, and will have the Rock-N-Wash representatives work with the economic development division and committee to find a solution.

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Five Hillcrest students have writings selected for provincial publication The creative writings of five Hillcrest School students have been chosen for a provincial initiative – the Young Saskatchewan Writers 202021 publication. Selected were Kirkman and Baylee from Grade 1, who each wrote a paragraph about things they love, Grade 2 student Dexter, who wrote a poem called Summer, Grade 4 student Allie, who wrote a poem named Pizza, and Grade 8 student Emmalee, who created a poem named Writing Poem. Hillcrest principal Kristy Johnson said the publication is through the Literacy Educators’ Network of Saskatchewan (formerly the Saskatchewan Reading Council). Not all writings submitted will be printed, as the network selects the entries they believe to be the best. “ They selected these

Grade 1 student Kirkham

Grade 1 student Baylee

Grade 2 student Dexter

Grade 4 student Allie

Grade 8 student Emmalee

ones just based on the ideas in their poems and paragraphs, and strong writers’ voice and word choice for their age categories,” said Johnson. At the school level, Hillcrest selected 12 entries that they regarded as high-quality and have a chance at being published by the network. Of those 12, five were selected to be printed.

“We did have some students whose writing wasn’t selected, and they should be very proud, too, because it’s about taking a risk and putting themselves out there,” said Johnson. Johnson said the school has dedicated a lot of time during the school year to helping the students with their writing.

“We have provided additional time for writers’ workshops, and we really just want to provide students an opportunity to share their voice and to get their thoughts from their head to their paper,” said Johnson. “We’ve been working a lot on engagement in writing and trying to instill confidence in writing, so students,

even as young as kindergarten and pre-K, believe they are writers, because writing comes in all different forms, as we know,” said Johnson. The school has also been encouraging students to share that love of writing. Johnson is also pleased to see that students from several different grades were selected.

“We’ve just seen the kids’ confidence grow, and so it’s an honour. We’ve talked to the students, that they should be very proud of this accomplishment,” said Johnson. The five students were recognized during a school assembly through Microsoft Teams on Friday afternoon. Each young person read their writing for their peers.

Electrical heater burned down an oilfield trailer Estevan fire crews worked alongside the 737 Volunteer Fire Department earlier this week. A call for mutual aid came in on March 8 at about 11:30 a.m. The report stated that there was a structure fire south of Bromhead. The fire was occurring at an oilfield battery site. "Crews responded with one engine. We arrived on scene to begin suppression operations. There were a few hazards that we had to take into considerations, as it was a worksite," said Estevan Fire Chief Dale Feser. The structure turned out to be a double occupancy office-type oilfield trailer, and propane tanks were attached to it. Firefighters were able to safely cool down the tanks, preventing them from exploding. Once that was done, fire crews could proceed with suppressing the trailer fire.

"When we arrived on the scene the building itself was already a complete loss," Feser said. After the fire was brought under control, firefighters switched to checking the area to ensure there were no other small hotspots remaining. "At that time the scene was turned back over to the oilfield company staff that was on site." There were no occupants in the trailer at the time, and nobody was hurt or injured. Firefighters conducted an investigation and found that a secondary electrical heating appliance was the cause of the fire. Estevan fire crews spent about five hours dealing with the fire. The 737 Volunteer Fire Department is comprised of people from the RM of Souris Valley No. 7 and the RM of Lomond No. 37.

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Spring road bans came into effect as of 12:01 a.m. on March 15 across southern Saskatchewan, and will also be in effect in many rural municipalities in this area. Updates on the status of bans in other regions will be made available through the Highway Hotline and social media. Spring road bans are used to protect roads and infrastructure during the

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Local woman will discuss Métis heritage An Estevan woman is going to chronicle her Métis roots and her family’s experiences, during a Zoom webinar that will be hosted by South-

east Newcomer Services. Dawn Marie SloanBeahm will talk about the experiences of the Métis people when it comes to

discrimination and racism during the session March 23 at 1 p.m. She has a story she has written about her grandfather, Ely Delorme, that she

has shared previously. “I have created a video with the story of my grandfather, and then we’ll stop and have time for discussion and questions,” Sloan-Beahm told the Mercury. Her father was originally from Jackfish Lake, and settled with his wife and children in the Fairholme area in northwest Saskatchewan. Sloan-Beahm noted that the video goes back to the time of the first Red River uprising in the 19th century, because her great, great, great-grandfather Andre Nault was the person who first saw the surveyors arrive in the land near the Red River settlements. “He was involved in helping Louis Riel set up the provisional government, so we go right back to 1869 to get that initial history moving forward, until my grandfather was born,” said Sloan-Beahm. She will also share a PowerPoint presentation of First Nation and Métis items in her collection. Sloan-Beahm has shared that collection previously at multicultural events and other similar events. “There is a variety of books, first of all, the things that I had to read up on so that I could learn more about my own history and heritage and what it meant, and then I have decorative items and replications of artifacts from history. “I don’t have any original, antique items, because I believe those sorts of things should be in a museum for everyone to share, so I tend to

Dawn Marie Sloan-Beahm will share her family’s Métis heritage. Photo submitted buy replicas. But I prefer replicas that are really more like what they actually would have been like, way back hundreds of years ago. For example, I have a replica of a tomahawk that is a pretty good replica.” She also has artwork, posters and paintings on the walls, along with clothing and jewelry. They are separated into categories. Sloan-Beahm said she is not an expert on Métis history, but she has a personal interest because she is Métis. “I like to learn about my own family history, and what sorts of things happened in my own genealogical chart. So I’m just willing to share that. I have

Ely Delorme faced discrimination and racism because he was Métis. Photo submitted

a collection of items because I like them and they interest me, so if anybody is interested in that, I’m happy to share that, and I’m happy to share the things I’ve learned so far.” She hopes there will be a give-and-take aspect to the presentation, so that others who have knowledge of other aspects of what it is to be Métis can share their information with her, and they learn from each other. Sloan-Beahm has several different bloodlines in her background, but she remains proud of her Métis heritage. “This is a part of the history that I like to investigate the most because there was so much bigotry and racism at the time that my mother was a child that it’s been hard for me to actually find some of the information. It wasn’t talked about because they had to listen to so much racial slurs against them, and different treatment, that it was sort of brushed under the rug and hidden.” Sloan-Beahm’s video and PowerPoint will last about an hour, and then she will take time to answer questions from those in the webinar. Sponsored by South East Sport, Culture & Recreation District Inc. and Southeast Newcomer Services, this presentation is free and open to everyone. To register, please phone 306-637-4920 and provide your email address.

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March 17, 2021 A9

Council meetings to air on YouTube again Estevan city council meetings can now be found on YouTube. The meetings streamed live on YouTube from 2017 to 2019 through a partnership with Access Communications, but the practice was discontinued. Now the meetings will be uploaded to the city’s YouTube page a couple of days after they are finished as part of the city’s efforts to keep the public engaged. In a report to council, information-technology manager James Lainton offered three options to council. The one that council opted for, which has no cost, sees Access supply the existing microphone system, audio switcher, camera and personnel to broadcast council meetings on Estevan’s AccessNow community channel. Access will provide the

video file to the city if they want to post it on YouTube and the city’s website. Lainton noted that some cities have purchased a complete package for streaming meetings, including multiple fixed cameras, a switcher, microphones and audio mixers. They then subscribe to a dedicated service to broadcast the video live, while also recording it for future use. In these cases, Access still provides the personnel and takes a live video feed to go to their AccessNow channel. The system would cost the city around $25,000 for equipment, and $11,500 for a streaming system subscription. A hybrid takes aspects from both of the first two scenarios, without the cost, ownership and maintenance of all the equipment. Access

would provide all the services they do now, including personnel and equipment. But there would be a subscription cost of approximately $11,500, however the city could stream at their leisure. Councillor Kirsten Walliser pointed out that this is not as simple as using a phone to stream the meeting onto Facebook live. “I do like that fact that, if nothing else, we can at least have the Access video posted at a later time, so that there is access to those without Access,” said Walliser. Mayor Roy Ludwig said the city shouldn’t get brand new equipment or pay for a service when they can use the equipment that’s already there. Councillor Shelly Veroba noted that when the meetings were livestreamed on

Police make arrests for impaired driving, vehicle theft Members of the Estevan Police Service made a couple of arrests on Sunday. A traffic stop was made in east-central Estevan that resulted in a 28-year-old Estevan man being arrested for impaired driving. His vehicle was impounded for 60 days due to it being his third impaired driving offence. He is scheduled to make his first

court appearance in Estevan Provincial Court on May 10 at 9:30 a.m. Also on Sunday, the EPS received a report of a suspicious vehicle being driven erratically in southwest Estevan. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, but was soon found by members and arrested for theft of a motor

YouTube, Access had to have someone back at the studio, and they only had a few people watching. People were more interested in watching the meetings at their own leisure. But she also pointed out that a lot of people still watch the meetings on Access. Councillor Rebecc a Foord suggested promoting the videos once they’re up on YouTube and letting the public know that they can watch the meeting, even if it’s a few days later. • • • Two building permits worth $210,000 were issued in February, bringing the total for the year to four permits worth $340,000. Both of the permits issued in February were classified as commercial. There were four permits worth $81,700 in the first two months of 2020. • • • The water quality report for February showed the city treated a total of 106.5 million

litres of water and pumped 102.6 million litres into the distribution system. There were no plant upsets, and the city met all of the provincial requirements for water quality. • • • The February report for the Estevan Fire Rescue Service showed that members had 18 calls for service and four training nights. The activity included nine fire-related calls, four false alarms, three gas leaks/carbon monoxide alarms and two motor vehicle accidents. • • • The city’s amended cannabis bylaw was brought back before council and received first reading. Council took a first look at the cannabis bylaw back in January, as it had to be amended to allow for a second cannabis retailer, Moonlit Cannabis, to open on Sixth Street. Moonlit has since decided to be in an area already zoned for a cannabis

retailer, so council decided on Feb. 22 to briefly shelve the bylaw. The latest version of the bylaw allows for a retailer to be located anywhere within the downtown core, including all lands bounded and within Fourth Street from 13th Avenue to Souris Avenue South; Souris Avenue South from Fourth Street to Sixth Street; Sixth Street from Souris Avenue South to 13th Avenue; and 13th Avenue from Sixth Street to Fourth Street. A retailer would also be allowed on 13th Avenue from Sixth Street to King Street; King Street from 13th Avenue to Kensington Avenue; and Kensington Avenue from King Street to Fourth Street. Retailers must not be within 200 metres of a school, and they need to have a visible storefront. Councill will need to give the document second and third readings before it is approved.

vehicle. He was also charged under the Traffic Safety Act for driving with only a Class 7 learner’s licence, driving an unregistered vehicle and for being an unauthorized driver. He was released in front of a justice of the peace with conditions, and is scheduled to make his first court appearance on May 10 at 9:30 a.m.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Formed by burning tobacco 4. Luxury automaker 7. Religious residences 12. Crusaders 14. Puzzled 15. In a curt way 18. Selling tool 19. Solid material 20. Gold 21. Thick piece of something 24. Pouch 27. “Wonder Years” actor Fred 30. Strong and healthy 31. Waste matter 33. Apply lightly 34. Type of squad 35. Secret political faction 37. Mock 39. Immoral act 41. Early Syrian kingdom 42. Neutralizes alkalis 44. Loud, confused noise 47. Sweet potato 48. Yemen’s largest city 49. Farm state 50. Bird’s beak 52. Measures distance 53. Pacify 56. Spanish noble 61. Lodging supplied for public convenience 63. Womanized 64. Not divisible by two 65. Monetary unit CLUES DOWN 1. Used in perfumery 2. Arabic man’s name

3. Assess 4. Prickly plants 5. Falsely assess 6. “__ the whistle” 7. Mama 8. Rocker __ Vicious 9. Toward 10. Prefix meaning within 11. Midway between south and southeast 12. Cause to be embarrassed 13. Pandemonium 16. Fall behind 17. Cantonese 22. Shad 23. A way to make dark 24. Specialized systems consultant 25. Wings 26. Taxi driver 28. Linear units 29. Large Philippine plant 32. Celebration 36. Fugitives are on this 38. Chinese tree 40. Not sour 43. “Bourne” actor Matt 44. Former OSS 45. Runners run this 46. Offered again 51. Sanctuary 54. Food suitable for babies 55. Caused by a reflection of sound 56. Mortar trough 57. Days in mid-month 58. Exhibit the courage to do 59. Disk of the sun in Egyptian mythology 60. Protects from weather 62. Manganese

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A10 March 17, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

Adjudicators announced for Estevan’s music festival The adjudicators have been announced for the 2021 Estevan and District Music Festival. Anna Marie Bekolay will adjudicate the vocal and speech arts discipline. A soprano, violinist, teacher and adjudicator, she performs with many ensembles in and around Saskatoon and runs Anna Bekolay’s Studio, teaching voice, violin, recorder and fiddle. In 2006, she received a gold medal from the Royal Conservatory of Music for the highest mark in the country on her associate diploma exam for voice performance. She has a number of current vocal projects on the go in different genres. Her singing was also featured recently at the 2017 Saskatchewan Wearable Art Gala in the collab-

orative presentation of the wearable art piece Faceted Wing by Nadine Jaggi. Jim McCarthy will adjudicate the instrumental discipline. He is an established freelance musician with accolades in a wide range of skills: performing, composing, arranging, studio production, music education and instrument design and building. He graduated from Australia’s University of Adelaide in 1996 with a master’s degree in music performance – percussion. He has maintained annual tours in Australia performing with Musica Viva in Schools as well as running various masterclasses and clinics. He also arranges music for school bands and produces sequences and recordings for The Fun Music Company.

Additionally, he runs a webbased business that focuses on designing and building custom percussion instruments, as well as a subscription website that produces video tutorials for marimba technique and monthly critiques of percussion performances on YouTube. Laurel Teichroeb will be the piano adjudicator. She holds an associate teacher’s diploma with the Royal Conservatory of Music, a primary/elementary piano pedagogy diploma, and a licentiate diploma in piano pedagogy with the Canadian National Conservatory of Music (CNCM). Teichroeb is an examiner for CNCM, clinician at provincial music conferences, and an adjudicator for festivals throughout Western Canada.

Growing up in a musically enriched community in Springside, she began piano lessons with the late Jean Laube. Her earliest music influences were playing in church and singing in school, where she began accompanying at a very young age. At age 15, Teichroeb began teaching piano with her goal being to always be passionate about music, and to allow her students to find the joy of music at all levels of learning. The festival is tentatively scheduled to run from April 11-17, and will be a virtual event instead of having live music. The performer is responsible for recording and submitting the video of the performance. Good audio and video quality are important. St. Paul's United Church will be available for recording perfor-

mances from March 19-22 and March 26-28. The participants will book through the music festival and a committee member will be at the facility whenever there is a recording booked, in order to do the sanitizing before and afterwards and to ensure that all COVID-19 guidelines are being followed, including masking, social distancing, etc. To book a time at St. Paul’s, call Alicia Mann at 306 421-3352 St. Paul's venue guidelines must be followed. Entrants are responsible for recording and uploading their performance videos. The deadline for uploading videos is April 1. The piano portion for the music festival will run from April 11-14, the vocal, speech arts and musical theatre will be April 16 and the instrumental portion will be April 17.

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 Warm weather has arrived please get out and enjoy our many parks. The Council of the City of Estevan pursuant to the Cities Act that the Council of the City of Estevan, gives notice of its intention to implement a bylaw to establish and statutory authority to set Regulate Public Notice to change the zoning to accommodate cannabis related businesses within the City of Estevan On March 8, 2021 meeting the first reading of this bylaw was passed and the final readings is expected to be on March 22, 2021. The proposed Bylaw 2021-2036 may be inspected by any person in the City Clerk’s Office, on the main level of City Hall, between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday. Dated this 12th day of March, 2021. Judy Pilloud, City Clerk 1102 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A 0W7 Public Notice

DROP IN RECREATION

SCHEDULE Saturday, Apr. 3&10

TY FACILSIED CLO AY

FITNESS SCHEDULE

WEIGHT ROOM

FRID ND APRIL 2

Tuesday, Apr. 6

Wednesday, Apr. 7

Thursday, Apr. 8

Friday, Apr. 9

LANE SWIM 6:00 am - 6:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am

AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am

SURF & SWIM 10:30 am - 11:30 am

REGULAR PROGRAMMING

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm

AQUA AWE 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm

FAMILY SWIM 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm

FAMILY SWIM 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm

FAMILY SWIM 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm

FAMILY SWIM 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm

LANE SWIM 6:00 pm - 6:45 pm

PUBLIC SWIM 7:15 pm - 9:00 pm

LANE SWIM 9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

CLOSED

6 am - 10 pm

6 am - 9 pm

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm

FAMILY SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

LANE SWIM 5:00 pm - 5:45 pm

REGULAR PROGRAMMING

PUBLIC SWIM 6:15 pm - 7:30 pm

LANE SWIM 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm

REGULAR PROGRAMMING

CLOSED

LANE SWIM 9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

9 am - 9 pm

6 am - 10 pm

LANE SWIM 6:00 pm - 6:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am GRIT 9:10 am - 9:50 am EASY STRETCH 9:10 am - 9:50 am

SPIN 9:10 am - 9:50 am

SPIN 9:10 am - 9:50 am SPIN/CORE 9:10 am - 9:50 am

CLOSED

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm FAMILY SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm LANE SWIM 5:00 pm - 5:45 pm PRIVATE BOOKING LANE SWIM 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm

WEIGHT ROOM

CLOSED

Monday, Apr. 5

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm

Sunday, Apr. 11&18

FITNESS SCHEDULE

Sunday, Apr. 4

ESTEVAN LEISURE CENTRE - EASTER BREAK 2021

PUBLIC SWIM 7:15 pm - 9:00 pm

6 am - 9 pm

SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am 10:15 am - 10:55 am 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm 6:30 pm - 7:10 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 am - 10:15 am 10:30 am - 11:15 am

SPIN 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm

Tuesday, Apr. 13

Wednesday, Apr. 14

Thursday, Apr. 15

Friday, Apr. 16

LANE SWIM 6:00 am - 6:45 am 7:00 am - 7:45 am 8:00 am - 8:45 am

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

AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am

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

AQUA AWE 9:15 am - 10:00 am

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

A.I.S. 11:15 am - 12:00 pm

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

SURF & SWIM 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm AQUA AWE 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm A.I.S. 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm SURF & SWIM 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

SURF & SWIM 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

PUBLIC SWIM 6:15 pm - 7:30 pm

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm AQUA AWE 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm A.I.S. 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm SURF & SWIM 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

CLOSED

LANE SWIM 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm

LANE SWIM 9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

LANE SWIM 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm

9 am - 9 pm

6 am - 10 pm

6 am - 9 pm

6 am - 10 pm

SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am GRIT 9:10 am - 9:50 am EASY STRETCH 10:10 am - 10:50 am SPIN 12:15 pm - 12:45 pm SPIN/CORE 5:10 pm - 6:10 pm

GRIT 6:10 am - 6:50 am SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am 10:15 am - 10:55 am 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm 6:30 pm - 7:10 pm

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!

CORE BARRE ABOVE 9:10 am - 10:15 am 10:30 am - 11:10 am SPIN 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm 1:15 pm - 2:00 pm 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

SURF & SWIM 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING PUBLIC SWIM 6:15 pm - 7:30 pm

SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am 10:15 am - 10:55 am 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm

AQUATIC SCHEDULE EFFECTIVE - February 22 - April 1, 2021 Sunday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM LANE SWIM

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

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

CLOSED

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

A.I.S

AQUA AWE

A.I.S

AQUA AWE

CLOSED

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

GRIT 9:10 am - 9:50 am 11:10 am - 11:50 am

EASY STRETCH 10:10 am - 10:50 am

Monday

A.I.S

11:15 am - 12:00 pm

A.I.S

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

Monday, Apr. 12

LANE SWIM 9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

SPIN 9:10 am - 9:50 am 10:10 am - 10:50 am

SPIN 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am 10:15 am - 10:55 am 5:30 pm - 6:10 pm

ESTEVAN LEISURE CENTRE - 2021

PRIVATE BOOKING

Saturday, Apr. 17

CLOSED

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

LANE SWIM 12:15 pm - 1:00 pm PUBLIC SWIM 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

PUBLIC SWIM 7:15 pm - 9:00 pm

6 am - 9 pm

GRIT 6:10 am - 6:50 am 9:10 am - 9:50 am

SPIN 9:10 am - 9:50 am

EASY STRETCH 10:10 am - 10:50 am GRIT 11:10 am - 11:50 am

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

PRIVATE BOOKING

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

DEEP WATER POWER 8:00 pm - 8:45 pm

PRIVATE BOOKING

LANE SWIM

PRIVATE BOOKING

LANE SWIM

PRIVATE BOOKING

9:00 pm - 9:45 pm

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

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. 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!

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

www.estevanmercury.ca

March 17, 2021 A11

International WomEn’s Day #ChooseToChallenge, We continue celebrating Women of Estevan Following the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2021, throughout month of March, the Estevan Mercury continues to celebrate outstanding Women of Estevan. Since the beginning of March, we’ve received dozens of nominations featuring great women of this and surrounding communities, which we keep sharing with our readers. We also continue publishing stories of some of the greatest local women, thus in our own manner celebrating IWD.

The theme of this year’s IWD 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.”

BROUGHT BY:

Shelly Veroba is pillar of support within the Estevan community. If you know Shelly you know she is the manager of Creighton Lodge and has poured her heart and soul into making sure her residents live their best lives possible while they are there. She treats all residents as family and truly puts in the Shelly Veroba work every single day to make everyone’s lives significantly better. Shelly takes great pride in her career and you’ll find her bragging about Creighton Lodge, her co-workers and the residents every chance she gets. When she’s not working, Shelly stays busy by serving and leading in the community in many different ways. She’s in her second term of city council and in addition to being a great leader and advocate for the community, she has a central role in helping to mentor the first time councillors in their new positions. Shelly has been an active board member for United Way Estevan for many years and has branched out from the United Way to be part of the new Estevan Public Youth Centre board. She has previously held spots on the Estevan Minor Hockey board and has volunteered for countless activities and events in Estevan over the years. Shelly uses strong leadership to enhance everything that she’s involved in. She treats everyone with equality and dignity, has earned a reputation for being approachable and friendly and is always willing to share a laugh together. Shelly continually works to support the community and we are grateful she has decided to make Estevan her new hometown.

sin es s Ly nn ha s be en a bu thin teer wi owner, community volun er the years many organizations ov where she and is always helping the executive can. She has been on tevan board of the United Way Es d is on the for over 20 years an Lynn Trobert van Motor te executive of the Es Lynn never g. rin es for voluntee Speedway. She just liv ations and niz ga th of these or bo for g rin tee lun vo stops . in everything she does

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ny organizaAllison is involved in so ma the performing tions, always very involved in sits on the board arts community, whether she cher and a viceor volunteering. She was a tea hensive School principal of the Estevan Compre ed in all the olv inv for years. Always was very Allison Holzer y involved ver o als s plays and musicals. She wa n on the bee s ha son mer Games. Alli with the Saskatchewan Sum Souris of ent esid -pr vice a she is also arts board for many years and way. ngs get done in a really nice Valley Theatre. She makes thi Michelle Dickie is the adm in ist ra to r fo r the Rural Municipality of Estevan No. 5. Michelle is Michelle Dickie dedicated to enlity is run eff ipa ici suring the mun king for ways ciently and always loo the changing to move forward with time she runs e economy. In her spar ed business as e-b m a successful ho e acreage with and enjoys life on th her family.

“Here’s to strong women: May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.”

Taking care of you from the inside out.

“Well behaved women rarely make history.” - Eleanor Roosevelt 1339 4 St, Estevan www.trobertlaw.ca

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Meet Andrea Gervais Andrea's favourite thing is the Diamond Envy Collection Necklace

Brady Johnson

Brady Johnson is definitely a Woman of Estevan. She started as a young entrepreneur and is growing her business, Encompass Fitness, into a vital part of many individua ls’ lifestyles. Brady also constantly giving back to the community in a variety of ways.

Thankful to the women that came before us and fought for equal rights. 306.634.7311 loricarrmla@sasktel.net

Estevan Market Mall | 306.634.9577 |

Happy International Women's Day from women entrepreneurs Daralee & Dorothy

Lori Carr, MLA

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Estevan Constituency Office

Strong

Here’s to

Our 2021 Spring Annuals are ready for viewing on our new online store.

WOMEN

May we know them, May we raise them, May we be them.

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A12 March 17, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

International W

Women of Estevan: Story of the biggest lo By Ana Bykhovskaia The Pierson family needs no introduction in Estevan. Known in the community, they are one of the pillars of the city. The community spirit and work ethic have always run in the family, however, the dedication of one “kick-ass” member stands out even more, as for years that woman was finding all ways possible to make Estevan a better place for generations living and the ones to come. As a part of our Women of Estevan special, the Mercury spoke to Melodye Pierson, Estevan’s biggest fan, about her love for the city and the ways she chose to show this love. Melodye’s parents met during the Second World War, when her father, born at the Taylorton mine, was overseas. He brought his young wife, who was six months pregnant, from England and they settled in his hometown. Estevan wasn’t as developed back then, but the family stayed to make it better for themselves and their children.

“There wasn’t much in Estevan then, and I always said to (my mom), ‘I’m surprised you didn’t get back on the train.’ And, and she said, ‘I loved him.’ It couldn’t be any simpler than that,” recalled Melodye. Business was always a part of Melodye’s life. Her parents have been working hard not only to make a living but also to ensure others could make a good living here as well. It was through hard and continuous work that they passed many life principles over to the next generation. “Our employees became like family, and my dad always told us, in life generally, that we were not one bit better than anybody else. He taught me so many basics. So did my mom,” remembered Melodye. “I never forget him saying, ‘You can never expect any of our employees to do anything that you would not do yourself.’ Just common sense, things like that resonated with me.” That approach built into the family’s businesses affected the further choices. While love for the community has been a part of Melodye’s life since the early stages, not always was she living here. Melodye received a secretarial degree, met her husband Bert and they lived in Winnipeg for 11 years. She recalls years in Manitoba’s capital with warmth. Bert’s family was from there, and she had some great work experiences and they made many friends, but Estevan kept calling them back. “My husband and I both wanted to raise our kids in a small community. And my dad really wanted (Bert) to come work here. Of course, the rest of my family was here and I couldn’t wait to get back

The Pierson family, from left, Jeff, Melodye, Bert and Brad. Photo submitted ... I had really missed it because, it’s hard to explain, but you’re just so proud of how everybody takes care of everybody else and tries to make it better.” Once they came back, Estevan became their one and only community. The city and the people here taught Melodye many life lessons she passed over to their children. “I grew up in business, seeing a lot of our employees being single parents, but they were very determined to make it work. I saw so many great examples of people that struggled, but they always wanted to be better. They didn’t have half as much but thought they had twice as much.” Customers and employees enriched her life, and she always was a person who would give back

Melodye Pierson was nominated to be featured at Mercury’s Women of Estevan as the biggest fan of Energy City. Photo by Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

Need your supplies delivered at no charge? Call Wanda to set it up. Melodye Pierson with billet player Dayton Deics and Deics’ family. Photo by Durr Photography

Celebrating Women's Day

Katia Bigney’s energy and her willingness to help and protect others is what makes her so special. Katia is a special constable with Estevan Police Service, which is a huge duty on its own. She also runs a business and works the land she lives on. She works horses and dedicates time to raise her dogs into the most intelligent and well-trained human’s best Katia Bigney friends. It is Katia’s energy, goal commitment and dedication that brough t the broad southeast corner of the province together to make it better and safer for all widely spread communities in this region. In 2019, Katia researched the idea, found experts, reached out to villages, towns and cities in the southeast and eventually started the South East Saskatchewan Search and Rescue chapter – a volunteer organization that serves as a resource if someone goes missing. She is the president of the chapter. She went through all bureaucratic challenges to get the organization going. Along with other dedicated members, she organized and went through basic training. Katia keeps pushing this young organization forwar d, so people in the area know that there is someone with knowledge and skills to help them if their loved ones are lost.

Celebrating

Karla ded more an she ever gem.

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Women’s Day

ove for the Energy City

This strong wom an star ted a ne w ca reer in agricultu re f in an ce during the Van Der pa nd em ic . At haaf the same time lking dicated herself to wa than e or m g in nd exercis st a “ju is e sh r has. And

supporter of the Community Hamper Association, as well as the United Way Estevan and the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation – three massive dollar campaigns, which every year help thousands of people. “It doesn’t matter if it’s the Hospital Foundation or the hamper association or when I go help with Rotary’s Lobster Fest, it’s just the community giving back all the time and you just want to be part of it.” The COVID-19 pandemic made her involvement with the hamper association even dearer for Melodye. “I’d stop the world to work for that … I would stop the world to make sure every kid gets a gift and food.” The balance between work, family and many volunteer jobs wasn’t necessarily easy to maintain, but Melodye said she had to make it work, as every project she was involved with enriched her life, but also was important for the community. “Each one just warms my heart,” she said. While Melodye’s life has recently changed after her husband passed away, her active involvement has never stopped. With a help of a few people, they started a widows’ group to support each other and cheer each other up. “It’s just making them comfortable, knowing that they’re not suffering alone. It’s so different when all of a sudden you’re on your own.” She’s never counted how many projects, campaigns and organizations she’s volunteered for as it’s always been just a natural part of life and she always worked with what came up, thus showing her love to her hometown in the most genuine way.

Donna George

Sally Young

Brittany Tuchschere

Patti McClelland

Hien Le

Here’s to E BE THEM. AY W EM .

Blanche keeps so busy that it is hard to keep up to her. She is loved by many and treasured by all.

Palima Shrestha

Christine is resilient. She always pushes forward with positivity, not just in her life but helps others as well through support for various causes.

MAY WE KNOW

As a woman who wore many hats in her life as a teacher, a wife, a mother and grandmother; Blanche continues to be an inspiration to many. Blanche loves reading, enjoys a good movie, writing letters to family, and bird watching out her window.

Rachana Prabhakar

Ta mm i Go etz is a ca ttle woman, definitely worki ng in a male dominated profes sion. She’s up early in the barn, ho me schools kids and kills worko uts long after other people are done for the day. Hardest wo rking person you’ll know.

International -103 Years of Age.

Celebrating

After Bert Pierson passed away, Melodye and a few other widows organized a club to support each other. Photo submitted

Recognizing a special woman for

Blanche Keating

Melissa Deitz

Michelle Assoumbang

Christine Meszaros

Women’s Day

Melissa Deitz is a woman who started a new company during tryin g times, always looking for ways to give back to the community and help get Estevan businesses on the map.

the WOMEN of Pharmasave

Tammi Goetz

“If you have a dream, make it a goal.”

Kathryn is a trailblazer and a lawyer. S h e a l s o re cently became a mediator. Kathryn Gillis Kathryn volunteers with Estevan Figure Skating Club, sits on provincial boards, sits on Estevan Art Gallery and Museum board, all while also being a wonderful mother to a toddler.

Sana Arman

Iryna Mellon

Olivia Davies

Sisal Shah

Savanna Perry

Hunter Jaworski

to the community. Melodye couldn’t recall when her love for the city took a shape of volunteering, as it was always a natural part of life. “I was just raised with it. My mom and dad volunteered … And we just enjoyed it. It wasn’t something we had to do, we wanted to be along for the ride.” The fact that despite all possible challenges the community would always step up to a cause and support many initiatives made this love feel absolutely mutual. “It’s just fascinating to me to see so many people giving their time, not expecting any recognition, wanting to pull that thing more than just a commitment … Even in our schools, you see the community ethic, where people want to give back. And I just think it’s a perfect fit. I was blessed to have my kids grow up in this community.” Melodye and Bert’s two sons soaked that community ethic and also chose Estevan as a place to raise their own families. Jeff Pierson is the general manager at Days Inn, while Brad Pierson holds the same position at Murray GM Estevan, and they both also follow the family’s volunteering traditions. “I look at my kids and just see how much it enriches them … They both love it because they see how everybody working together makes things better for the community. “Everybody here believes in the community and wants to make it better. And I just love it.” Volunteering has always been a big part of her life. When the kids were small, Melodye partook in projects pertaining to them. Since the mid-1970s, the family has been involved with hockey. She and Bert were long-time billets; she remained a billet after he passed away in 2018. “We’ve had a lot of kids, incredible kids come through our lives. And we just love that. Both my kids billet. And now my grandson (Ryder) plays for Bruins. “I always try and treat kids like I’d want somebody to treat my kids if they went away. It’s not like you’re volunteering, you’re just making them part of you. You’re not their family, but you’re there, you’re taking care of them while their family isn’t here.” The relationship they built with many players went beyond the Bruins’ years. More than 20 years ago, Melodye’s family along with other volunteers and businesses put all their efforts together to make the Estevan Motor Speedway happen. “The racetrack was huge because it came from nothing … It was all by donations from the community ... It was a whole good group of people that pulled it off,” recalled Melodye. Souris Valley Theatre and Creighton Lodge are some other bigger involvements. She is also a big

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Estevan Motor Speedway announces it will host a spring Enduro to open the 2021 season The year-end Enduro race has been a big part of the Estevan Motor Speedway’s schedule for over a decade, and now the track’s executive has decided to add a second Enduro race. An Enduro is slated to open the 2021 schedule on May 8. There will still be a season-ending Enduro on the speedway’s schedule in September. “The one we do have is always well attended, and I guess we thought we’d give those guys another chance to race,” said speedway president Aaron Turnbull. “It’s a fairly easy event for the speedway to put on.” The 2020 Enduro attracted 43 drivers who were trying to complete 150 laps around the track in 90 minutes or less. Greg Wanner completed the 150 laps in the quickest time. If nobody completes 150 laps within the specified time limit, then the winner is whoever has the most laps finished. “We definitely would need a minimum of 30 (drivers) to make a go of it,” said Turnbull. “I don’t think we’ll have too much of an issue getting to that. We generally like to have around the 40 mark, and if there’s more than that, great.” Some of the drivers who have been fixtures at the Enduro have been calling for a second one to be added at some point in the speedway season. If the weather doesn’t co-operate, the race would hopefully be a go for May 9. The test and tune program, which typically is their first event of the season, runs on May 15. Their season-opening doubleheader is slated for May 22 and 23. The Enduro has also

The Estevan Motor Speedway hopes to have a second Enduro race this year. File photo served as an introduction to racing on the track for many drivers who have gone on to compete regularly at the speedway, and Turnbull hopes that some who compete in the spring Enduro will eventually join the hobby stock class. “That’s always the idea of an Enduro, no matter what, is to get new guys into cars and going around the speedway, and maybe they find out it’s something they really like, and they end up going into a hobby stock. “That’s happened a lot of times. We have guys that are regulars at the speedway now, and that’s how they got their start is the Enduro. It’s another way to generate interest in people getting started racing as well.” The speedway has yet to approach the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) about the upcoming season. Part of the reason is they’re waiting to see what happens with the current restrictions. “We definitely expect things to loosen up by then

(May 8),” said Turnbull. But they also realized that they wouldn’t hear back from the SHA until the season is closer. Once May approaches, they’ll look to find out what they can and can’t do. “I guess we’re pretty confident that we’re going to be in at least the same situation as last year, if not better than that,” said Turnbull. Dirt track racing at the speedway is a safe sport as far as COVID is concerned, because drivers aren’t in close contact. “It’s a huge facility. It’s not like we’re jammed into a building. It definitely helps that we’re outdoors as well. We can have a lot of people on the grounds and have everybody spread out quite a ways. We have 42 acres, and it definitely wasn’t an issue last year.” The trac k is in the midst of tracking down all of their sponsors, and they’re also looking for new ones to support them in the 2021 season.

Chase Foord drafted by junior lacrosse team Chase Foord has added another accolade to his impressive list of lacrosse accomplishments. The Estevan athlete was selected in the third round, 11th overall, by the Saskatchewan Junior A Swat in Sunday’s Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League Draft. Foord has been part of Estevan Box Lacrosse for a number of years. He was part of the team that won the bronze medal at provincials in 2019 – a team comprised of Estevan and Weyburn players – and in 2018, he was named the top male athlete in Estevan Box Lacrosse. His talents have been

gaining the attention of people in Saskatchewan lacrosse circles for a while, as he has represented the province on a number of occasions. The Swat selected 13 players from throughout Saskatchewan in Sunday’s draft. It’s the second straight year that a local lacrosse product has been selected by the Swat in the draft. Nathan Wagstaff was picked in 2020. The Rocky Mountain Lacrosse League’s Junior A circuit has three teams from Alberta and one from Saskatchewan. The Alberta teams are located in Calgary,

Okotoks and St. Albert. The age of the majority of players is 18 to 21 years old. The Junior A regular season traditionally starts at the end of April and ends mid-July. Playoffs and provincials run from mid-July to mid-August. The Alberta Junior A champion earns the right to represent Alberta for the Minto Cup, the prestigious trophy awarded annually by the Canadian Lacrosse Association to the top junior box lacrosse team in the Canada. The Minto Cup is held near the end of August. Ontario, B.C and Alberta take turns hosting the championship event.

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AGRI NEWS A15 | Wednesday, March 17, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca

Fire safety in the field must be a No. 1 priority By Ana Bykhovskaia A16 A field accident that occurred on Sept. 1, 2020, in the Outram area, to a point, changed Gracie LeBlanc's perception of fire safety. That day she was helping her family with harvest, running a combine and doing a job that she's known since her early years, when in a matter of a few minutes everything changed. "It was really windy that day," recalled LeBlanc. "We were combining like normal, and I was dumping grain into the grain cart. And a hired man started seeing ashes and a little bit of smoke in the field, so they told me to stop, because (the track of ashes and little fires) was following me." While LeBlanc was focused on keeping the operation going and keeping the combine straight, not to miss the cart, the fact that others were keeping an eye out on the situation for her potentially saved her life. Over the radio, others who were working at the field confirmed that she should shut off the combine and get out of it. She instantly stopped, got out and grabbed the fire extinguisher. "I knew to grab the fire extinguisher because it was common sense, just grab the fire extinguisher and go check. And everyone else got out and tried to help me with theirs." The combine was already on fire. LeBlanc tried using the fire extinguisher, but it didn't do much for the machine. In a matter of minutes, it was obvious that the combine was a total loss, but with the winds up, it was everybody's job to prevent the fire from spreading over to crops still standing in this and other neighbouring fields. "Within about five minutes we had people call, and pretty much all our neighbours came with water trucks and sprayers and discs and everything to help keep the fire under control and put it out," LeBlanc said. The Estevan Fire Rescue Service made it out to the scene as fast as they could. The joint effort allowed for a successful operation, and fortu-

A combine caught on fire and burned down west of Estevan on Sept. 1 last year. Photo courtesy of Jason LeBlanc nately this time no one was hurt. But for LeBlanc this experience showed the value of safety and especially fire safety when it comes to operating farm equipment. "We always blow off the combines, get all the dust and straw to minimize the risk. Having fire extinguishers on the combines or with everyone is also good. And basically, just know the machine you are running and know what can happen and the potential risks," LeBlanc advised. It's hard to say how the situation

would end up if another farmer was in the combine instead of LeBlanc, but she assumed that the outcomes could have been way worse if they would have tried saving any parts of the machine. So her experience once again reassured her that safety comes first. "The main thing is to be safe. Just get out of there. Stuff happens, just let it go. You can replace equipment, but you can't replace a life," LeBlanc said. The investigation suggested

that it was a mechanical failure that caused the fire. It was assumed that the hydraulic steering line broke and hot oil was spraying over other heated parts, which started on fire and spread over to the rest of the combine. After the accident, Gracie's father Jason LeBlanc noted that in less than 30 seconds from when his hired hand, Jake Fast, spotted the first little bit of smoke in the field, the combine was destroyed. As soon as they noticed the flames, they told

Gracie to get out of the machine, and it was the instant reaction that saved her from being injured. Gracie said that now they dedicate more time to safety. "We talk about it a lot more now, so we all know how to use fire extinguishers and that they are there for a reason. "But (if something is to happen) definitely get out, look it over. Even if it's not anything major, just get out, because you can replace the machine, but you can't replace the life."

Agriculture safety week proclaimed in Saskatchewan The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March 14-20 as Agricultural Safety Week in the province. “Agricultural Safety Week provides the opportunity to remind everyone that agriculture safety matters year round, on and off the farm,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said. “Physical and mental health are of the utmost importance and everyone must do their part to ensure we are all able to return home to our loved ones at the end of each day.” “Using safety precautions year round is incredibly im-

portant to ensure that those who work on a farm return home safely,” said Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan. “Having safe farms in our province will help us continue to grow our agri-food exports here in Saskatchewan and build stronger families and communities.” Saskatchewan recognizes Canadian Agricultural Safety Week annually in conjunction with the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association. Canadian Agricultural Safety Week is focused on helping producers, families and communities lead

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the agricultural industry in safety and sustainability. This year's theme, Lead an Ag Safe Canada, is the second of a three-year farm safety campaign named Safe and Strong Farms. This year, virtual AgSafe ribbons are available for download from the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association website. Please visit www.saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety for more information about farm safety and for access to the Farm Safety Guide.

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In the spirit of Agricultural Safety Week, grain farmer reflects on recent purchase of aerial lift By Olivia Grandy Ian Cushon’s recent purchase of an aerial lift aligns with the objectives of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week. The week of awareness, created by the Canadian Agriculture Safety Association, aims to create empowering conversions about farm safety among producers across Canada. The campaign is held annually through the third week of March. Cushon, who farms in the RM of Moose Creek, said the lift would be a great asset to his 4,500-acre organic grain operation, “I’d been thinking about a lift just for accessing bins. Sometimes we have to go up to probe bins, and it’s not a very safe job.” The frequency of heightrelated injuries in grain farming is what inspired Cushon’s investment. “It’s a fairly common accident and one that is not 100 per cent preventable, but with a safety harness and a lift, I think it reduces the risk, and

the reality is, the older you get, the chances of you doing something that doesn’t work out too well on a ladder, working on a bin, goes up. Even for younger people, it can be a risky thing to be up on a bin, especially when it’s cold and icy or wet,” he commented. Although he has never fallen off of a bin himself, Cushon, like most farmers, has encountered some scary situations. “I’ve been up on bins and have had my ladder blow down. I always take a cell phone up with me in case.” He also shared that he fell into a bin several years ago when cleaning it out, while walking along a slippery horizontal aeration tube. This experience left him a bit stunned. Cushon explained that farmers are often fatigued and facing high-pressure situations when precautions are not taken and accidents occur. The Cushons host new European trainees each year through the International Rural Exchange Program. “Some of them come with

less English skills than others, and it’s very important to make sure that they understand what their task is and that they’re aware of any particular safety issues that are unique to the task that they’re working on.” Additionally, he explained that “often it’s relatives and family members who are not properly trained, getting put into positions of doing jobs that they aren’t really familiar with [who are at risk].” These risk factors emphasize the need for accessible safety equipment in agriculture. Cushon purchased the used aerial lift from a rental company. He believes that the lift will provide ease and convenience in his work. “We’ll use it for a range of things but [mainly] bin access and working on buildings. Even things as simple as changing a lightbulb in a farm shop is best done from something more stable than a ladder,” he said. “I think farmers are more safety conscious now than they have been, but I wouldn’t say that everyone is that way. It

R.M of Moose Creek farmer Ian Cushon understands the importance of taking practical steps to ensure farm safety for himself, his workers, and his family. kind of depends on the type of farm, the size of the farm, and if people have employees or not. But as far as I know, farming is still one of the highest risk occupations there is.”

Cushon highlighted how important it is for farmers to consider the little time spent taking preventative measures versus the significant amount of time lost if

an injury did occur. You can participate in Agricultural Safety Week by visiting the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association’s website.

Trespass law will be proclaimed when there’s an app Saskatchewan passed a new trespassing law several years ago, of particular interest to rural residents, but has not yet proclaimed it. One of the rural municipality councillors taking part in the provincial cabinet bear pit session during the virtual

Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities convention asked what was going on with the trespass laws. It turns out, the delay is linked to an app which can be used to ensure you are inbounds with the legislation. Justice Minister Gord

Wyant responded, “You're correct, we've passed the legislation, we're waiting to proclaim it. “There’s been a significant amount of collaboration that's been done with respect to ensuring that we have some public education

around the issue to make sure that we have a good communication strategy and there's been some work being done across ministries with respect to the preparation of an application, so that so that we can have the proper implementation of the legislation. “That work is proceeding, and I understand that it's proceeding quite quickly now, so we're still very hopeful, but we need to make sure that we have the right

vehicle in place to ensure that people can have access to the information that they need so that they're not offending the legislation. Wyant continued: “The last thing that we would want to do is proclaim the legislation without having the proper tools in place, and while there's been a lot of work that's been done, as I say, we're fairly close, at least that's my understanding. So we're hopeful. We know how

REMINDING ALL FARMERS TO STAY SAFE!

RM of Coalfields No. 4 RM OF

COALFIELDS NO.4

Stay safe out there farmers.

Box 190 Bienfait, SK S0C 0M0 306-388-2323 • rm.04@myaccess.ca

Thanking the Agriculture industry for their hard work.

important it is to people in rural Saskatchewan around this piece of legislation, that's why we brought it forward. We also want to make sure that when we proclaim it, that the appropriate tools are in place to make sure that it's effective and efficient. “Otherwise, I think we fail. So, you can look forward to some more information on this in the near future, and we'll continue to work on it as diligently as we can.” Pre m i e r S c o t t M o e added the act is ready to be proclaimed. “We will be proclaiming it at some point in time. We do want to ensure there's the sufficient amount of support infrastructure around this piece of legislation when we do proclaim it. “As well, we want to ensure that there's no unintended consequences that should arise as well and so there's that last look happening, in that last piece of consultation in which SARM is involved, right now, but we will be moving forward when we can … ensure that those two pieces are checked.”

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Watch out for moose Moose sightings in southeast Saskatchewan have become quite frequent. This youngster was spotted wandering in the field by Highway 18 not far from Oungre. Moose can develop a speed of up to 60 kilometres per hour and may weigh up to 680 kilos. Now that the spring is here, expecting cow moose will greet their newborns. The first months of life for young calves are the most dangerous. When threatened cows will vigorously defend their offspring using hard, sharp hooves and a powerful kick as weapons. While seeing such an amazing creature in its natural habitat is always exciting, coming across one on the highway or getting too close to one may result in a tragedy, so watch out. Photo by Ana Bykhovskaia

Delegates attended SARM convention via Zoom The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities covered a number of different topics related to rural life during their annual spring convention and trade show, which was held via Zoom on March 9 and 10. Terry Keating, who is the Reeve of the RM of Estevan, said the convention served as an opportunity to hear thoughts on a variety of topics. Keating and first-term Councillor Ramona Dukart, who is the councillor for the RM’s Division 5, listened to the speech from Premier Scott Moe, which Keating described as “upbeat,” as Moe told the delegates that Saskatchewan is slowly mending and will get things going again. But a virtual just wasn’t as good as face-to-face. “If you had any questions, you had to pre-arrange (to ask them), you had to dial in, you get put on hold, and of course, the SARM convention is for

all of Saskatchewan, so for any reeve or municipality or anywhere in the province, you’ve got these guys lined up, and lots of them are not familiar with the Zoom operation,” said Keating. There was also some talk about pipelines, but nothing has changed on that front. “They’re just discussing some of the problems that Saskatchewan is facing,” said Keating. The convention, which was two days shorter than it normally would be, had the traditional assortment of speeches from politicians and other leaders, along with reports, elections and more. Delegates debated about two dozen motions related to rural life and agriculture, with topics ranging from road conditions to wildlife, and power poles to procedures. They voted 97 per cent in favour of opposing the proposed name change by the Saskatchewan Urban

Municipalities Association to Municipalities of Saskatchewan. The RM of Estevan’s council held a meeting on March 10, so they weren’t able to participate the second day of the convention, which would have included the annual bear pit session, when the delegates get to direct questions to various Saskatchewan cabinet ministers. Keating believes the mood of the convention reflected the premier’s message that the

worst of the pandemic is over. He would expect that attendance was down dramatically from what it would normally be, and he looks forward to when the contention can be held in-person again, with all of the networking opportunities that would exist among delegates and with cabinet ministers. “You pick your different ministers, and there would be a room dedicated to that,” said Keating. “Whichever direction you’re interested in, there’s

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usually two or three different platforms going on at a time, and you pick where you’d like to go, or learn something or discuss something.” If the whole council is there, then different members can be spread out and spend more time with a minister or another individual. SARM’s mid-term convention is scheduled for Nov. 9 and 10 in Saskatoon. The next annual spring convention and trade show is slated to happen in March 2021 in Regina.

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Crop Insurance coverage and rates are going up, but premium cost is declining challenges thrown their way during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Bibeau said in a release. “These improvements to the Crop Insurance Program give Saskatchewan farmers more coverage Crop Insurance coverage is going they can count on. We will continue up due to higher commodity prices, working with our provincial counand rates are going up as well, but the terparts to ensure farmers have the premium cost per dollar of coverage risk management tools to help their continues to decline. There’s a new stability and growth.” pilot program for vegetables, and Asked if the COVID-19 panchanges for forage and chickpeas, too. demic had an impact on crop insurSaskatchewan Deputy Premier ance, Harpauer said, “None.” and Finance Minister Donna Har“For over 60 years, the Crop pauer and, through a press release, Insurance Program has supported federal Minister of Agriculture and Saskatchewan producers with reliable Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau, coverage and exceptional customer announced enhancements to the 2021 service,” Harpauer said. “We are comCrop Insurance Program. This year, mitted to providing producers with the Crop Insurance coverage will reach a insurance programs they need and the record level due to higher commodity enhancements announced today build prices and increased yield coverage. upon the current suite of programs.” “Farmers across Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Crop Insurance continue to step up despite all the Corporation (SCIC) said it “continues

By Brian Zinchuk, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

to provide high coverage as we enter a new growing season.” Coverage will reach a record level of $273 per acre due to higher commodity prices and increased yield coverage, up from $224 in 2020. This represents a 22 per cent increase in coverage. The average premium cost per dollar of coverage continues to decline. There was a 42 per cent reduction in average premium cost per dollar of coverage over the last 10 years. This includes a 20 per cent reduction directly resulting from the strong financial position of the program, SCIC said. However, due to the increased coverage for 2021, the average premium for producers will be higher than in 2020. The average premium per acre will be $8.59, up from $7.40. Harpauer said, “Establishment benefit values are reviewed annually. This year, the establishment benefit

Carievale hosts 4-H speaking contest The Carievale 4-H Beef Club hosted the District 41 public speaking competition on March 13. It was run very differently this year due to COVID-19 protocols, with 21 speakers over two sessions. Judges for the sessions were Stacey Johnson, Claire Martin, Donna Nelson and Marlee Phair. Jordanna and Kenzie White were the mistresses of ceremonies for the event. Dugan Franken placed first in the cloverbud division with his speech How Do You Call Your Cats?, followed by Kaleb Boyes’ speech The Fire Engine and Vanessa Cowan’s Casey. In the junior group, Declyn Allum placed first with her speech Oh COVID, second went to Miranda Murray with My Memory Makin Minnie Memphis and third to Jagger Allum with Mustard Man. The intermediate group was led by Slade Erdman’s All You Need is a Book. Second went to Laura Christensen’s More Than a Cup of Joe, and third went to Tallynn Kitz with Finding Help. The senior group had Grace Christensen with In the Moment, second was Madeline Christensen with Middle Child Syndrome and third went to MaKenzie Kitz with Future Life Lessons. The first place winners advance to regionals on March 27, which will be a live virtual event.

Kenzie and Jordanna White were the mistresses of ceremony for the Carievale 4-H Club’s speaking contest. Photo submitted

4H KID OF MONTH presented by

values for canola, lentils, chickpeas and corn have increased. Canola is now $70 per acre. Large green lentils are $50 per acre and red lentils are $30 per acre. Large Kabuli chickpeas are $65 per acre and Small Kabuli chickpeas are $45 per acre. Corn is $95 per acre.” New in 2021, producers growing tame hay will have additional options when insuring their hay acres. Crop Insurance customers now have the choice to insure their tame hay acres under the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program (FRIP) or the Multi-Peril Crop Insurance Program. Coverage options can be customized for each farming operation. Under FRIP, payments will be calculated based on rainfall levels, instead of overall yields. “Saskatchewan cattle producers face a lot of risks. It is good to see the programs they can access through SCIC continue to evolve,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association chair Arnold Balicki said in a release. “Adding tame hay to the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program and extending the calf coverage deadline and hours of operation for Livestock Price Insurance are all positive. I encourage cattle producers to look into SCIC’s programs as there were many improvements in recent years.” “Forage producers will also see an increase in Native Forage Establishment Benefit coverage. The Native Forage Establishment Benefit provides coverage on newly seeded native forage acres. The coverage is increasing from $75 to $200. Other Forage Establishment Benefit prices seeing an increase includes tame hay to $90 per acre and sweetclover to $65 per acre,” Harpauer said. Forage producers are encouraged to review available coverage options through SCIC's Forage Option and WeatherBased Programs. “In 2021, SCIC is also introducing coverage for large scale vegetable production. Commercial vegetable growers will now have access to the commercial vegetable pilot program, which will provide standalone coverage for damage to cabbage and pump-

kin crops,” Harpauer said. SCIC has been working with the Saskatchewan Vegetable Growers' Association to develop programming for the growing commercial vegetable sector in Saskatchewan. The impact of a crop failure on vegetable operations could be significant as a relatively small number of acres has extremely high value. A minimum of eight acres is required to participate in the program. SCIC will continue to explore insurance coverage options for the Commercial Vegetable Program. Saskatchewan has also become a significant producer of chickpeas. SCIC is updating the base grade for large-seeded Kabuli chickpeas to reflect current production and marketing patterns. This increases the insured price and the quality coverage. Carl Potts, executive director of Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, said, “I think the changes to the chickpeas base grade calculation just better reflects the size and the quality of the chickpeas that chickpea producers are producing these days. It’s simply a better reflection of the product the producers are producing, and should increase the overall level of coverage for producers.” Potts called it “a welcome development.” Saskatchewan Pulse Growers Board chair Shaun Dyrland said, “This change should increase coverage levels for most of the 300 chickpea producers in the province.” Canola’s significance Asked if there were any trends with farmers moving towards a particular crop, or any move into a “Cinderella crop” in 2021, SCIC acting president and CEO Jeff Morrow responded, “One of the main crops in the province, and the main crops in terms of acres and liability for Crop Insurance programs, is canola. That is certainly the most predominant crop. And I say our top three, other than canola, are wheat, duram and peas.” He said it’s up to producers to decide what they plant, but historically canola has been top.

Growing your future.

4-H Member of the Month: Kail Hilstrom Club: Benson 4-H Club Age: 13 Number of years in 4-H: Seven Age group: Juniors

He has competed in the 4-H speaking contest every year; this year his speech was about hunting and shooting a deer for the first time.

Kail Hilstrom loves animals, so 4-H is a perfect organization for him. But there are other benefits of being part of the organization. Kail has been a 4-H member for most of his life. He said he decided to join the organization because he wanted to grow his own steer. And, admittedly, he likes to get the money at the end of the 4-H season for his steer. “I like to spend time with the steer and all of the activities that we do,” said Hilstrom. Being part of 4-H isn’t just about the cattle aspect.

Volunteering is also a big part of his 4-H involvement. They have picked up garbage from the ditches along the highway, and they have volunteered at the Estevan Fair. They also participate in fundraising suppers at Black Beard’s Restaurant in the Days Inn. Hilstorm attends a meeting once a month on Sundays. He has made a lot of friends through the4-H program, and he would recommend it to anyone. “It’s a lot of fun, and you get to interact with lots of people,” Kail said. “You get to spend time with animals, and not many people get to do that.”

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CLASSIFIEDS A19 | Wednesday, March 17, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca

Obituaries

Obituaries Alvin Biberdorf 1928 - 2021

Donald Wilhelm 1937 – 2021

Alvin Biberdorf, born in the Frobisher District, Sask. on March 5, 1928 to Herbert & Dagmara Biberdorf, passed away at the St. Joseph's Special Care Home, Estevan, Sask. on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at the age of 92. He spent his younger years with his grandmother, Mary and his uncle, Lawrence Biberdorf, helping to farm the family homestead in the Steelman area. He attended Vineberg country school in the Steelman area. Later he attended technical school in Edmonton, where he received training as a welder, which was helpful on the farm, fixing and repairing the farm equipment. Dad & Mom (née Joyce Miller) were married in the Lutheran Church, a country church in the Steelman area, on October 30, 1952. Dad & Mom lived on a farm 2 miles East of the family homestead. On that farm they had 6 children. About 14 years later, they had outgrown that very small house and moved back to the original family homestead near Steelman. In his spare time (which seemed to be Sundays only) Dad loved to spend time with his family, either at Sunday family dinners, playing ball or catch, or taking us to the lake for the day. He supported us kids in whatever we were active in, be it hockey, baseball, or local church or school activities. Dad & Mom were active members in the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Frobisher, then St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and Faith Lutheran Church in Estevan. Dad even taught Kindergarten Sunday School when we were small and for many years after. Dad loved to sing and being from a musical family, had learned to play the accordion, which he would bring out for a family sing along with his kids or siblings. He sang in the choir at church and was a member of the Barbershop Choir in Estevan for years. Dad continued to farm and, with the help of his sons, tried his hand at dairy farming. After many years, and with the boys starting to leave home, he and Mom semi-retired. They sold the farm and moved to a small acreage near Bienfait. Dad was too young to retire, so he was hired by the R.M. to cut roadside ditches in the summer and he managed the Bienfait Skating Rink in the winter. He loved both jobs. He also helped Mom with her baking and spent many weekends at the local farmer’s markets selling her baked goods. Later, Dad & Mom moved to Estevan, where he was employed part-time as a taxi driver. In later years, Dad & Mom would make a trip to B.C. around apple season and Thanksgiving. They would always stop to see the kids in Edmonton, Red Deer and Kindersley. It was a trip that they, us kids and grandchildren looked forward to every year. Alvin's memory will be forever cherished by his kids: Brenda (Larry) Ringguth, Nola Forseth (Rick Worsnop), Vaughn (Mary-Ann) Biberdorf, Rick Biberdorf and Randy (Rose) Biberdorf; ten grandchildren: Dallas, Derek, Sheldon, Nicole, Melanie, Melinda, Aaron, Landon, Cally and Kyla, and 18 great grandchildren. He will also be missed and remembered by his sisters: Doris, Marion (Dave) and Lois (Richard); brothers: Edgar (Lilly), Gerald (Jeannette), Orville (Marge) and Robert (Marilyn), as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce Biberdorf (Miller); son Glen Biberdorf; son-in-law Allan Forseth; grandson Sean and great granddaughter Viktoria; parents: Herb & Dagmara Biberdorf and brother Lambert Biberdorf. Dad, if asked, would say he had a full and great life. He worked hard, and with mom, raised 6 children, suffered the loss of a son, and through the good and bad years of farming he never lost his faith in God or his love for life and family. He never gave up but kept going in his own quiet way. Rest in peace, Dad (Pops), Grandpa, Great Grandpa, brother and friend. You are loved and missed. If friends so desire, donations in Alvin's memory may be made to the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation (designate to Long Term Care), 1176 Nicholson Road, Estevan, Sask., S4A 0H3. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for the Biberdorf family - Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

Thank You

We, the family of the late Alvin Biberdorf with like to extend our sincere thanks to the nurses and caregivers at the St. Joseph's Special Care Home for the wonderful care you gave to our Dad throughout his last years, and to all of our relatives and friends who gave words of condolence and support through phone calls, cards flowers and donations. Your kindness will always be remembered. We would also like to thank Hall Funeral Services for all of their help, advice and caring service. -Brenda, Nola, Vaughn, Rick, Randy and families.

Deborah Johnson (nee Hahn) August 18, 1955 - March 2, 2021 It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Deborah Lynn Johnson (nee Hahn), our loving, devoted, generous and playful mother, wife, grandma, sister and friend to all who were blessed to have spent time with her. Debbie, age 65, passed away suddenly Tuesday, March 2, 2021, in La Broquerie, Manitoba. She was born August 18, 1955, in Grenfell, Saskatchewan, later moving to Estevan where she spent her childhood and raised her family until moving to Manitoba in 2010. Debbie attended SIAST and became a Registered Nurse in 1976. In 1983, she stepped away from her career to raise her children until returning to school in 2000 to recertify as an RN and continue her nursing career at the Estevan Regional Nursing Home. She was a devoted nurse and carried her patients in her heart with her always. Debbie leaves behind a loud, loving and playful family that she was very proud of. She had endless time for her children and grandchildren and loved to sing, dance and tell magical stories which often involved bad accents and colourful characters. The last year of Debbie’s life involved many virtual tea parties, birthdays, sing-alongs and goofy conversations with her kids and grandkids. Debbie was famous for her delicious baking (legendary chocolate cake), beautiful gardens and her great talent for sewing. She had a flair for clumsiness in the most unlikely moments, which as a young adult earned her the nickname of Schleprock (a clumsy Flintstones character) and it suited her until the end. She always amazed (and terrified) those around her with her determination to defy gravity and attempt to live well above her short 4’11” stature. If you spent any time with Debbie, you know she was a night owl and we all have special memories of evenings sitting outside with her listening to the hum of a warm prairie summer night and sharing a quiet moment. Debbie loved to make her family smile and she was quick to give all of her energy to those around her. Debbie will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 44 years, Gene, and their children Melanie (Michael) Turko (granddaughter Tessa), Alexis Johnson, Amy (Darryl Laliberte) Johnson (grandson River), Adam Johnson; sisters, Valerie Wynnyk, Louise (Alan) Murray and brother David (Tracy) Hahn as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Debbie was predeceased by her parents William and Irene Hahn. A memorial service will be held once family members are able to gather and embrace as Debbie would have wanted. Those wishing to make a donation in Debbie’s memory may do so to the New Estevan Regional Nursing Home Fund. “Be good. Be careful. Have fun!” Arrangements by: BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL CO-OP 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030 www.birchwoodfuneralchapel.com

In MeMorIaM

Donald Albert Wilhelm, late of Lampman, Sask. passed away at the Arcola Health Centre, Arcola, Sask. on Monday, March 8, 2021 at the age of 83. Don’s memory will be forever cherished by his wife of 52 years, Joyce (née Williamson) and their loving family: son Keith (Jackie) and grandchildren: RP, Rachelle, Brennan (Shannon) and Jonathan; son Warren (Lavonn) and grandchildren: Josh and Kim (Tanner) and their children: Sophia and Miller; son Darren (Cathie) and grandchildren: Jadynn, Leah, Ryan and Justin; daughter Marni (Adam) and grandchildren: Ty and Shelby. Don will also be lovingly remembered by his sister Marlene (Herman) Ulrich and their family: Peggy & Allan (Tyler, Christopher, Amy and families), Randy & Maureen (Robin and Blaire), Joanne & David (Lane, Lee, Shara and families); brother Ken (Bonnie) and their family: Ryan & Brandi (Tanner and Preslee), Marci & Steve (Makena and Mason); niece Simi & Nimit (Sanam and Zara); aunt Doris Serne; uncle Don Scott, and many special friends and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents: Hilda & Albert Wilhelm; daughter-in-law Dawn Wilhelm; brother Jack Wilhelm; nephew Dean Wilhelm and great great niece Madison Schaff. The Funeral Service for Don was held on Friday, March 12, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, Lampman, with Rev. Lori James officiating. Interment will take place at a later date. If family or friends so desire, donations in Don’s memory may be made to the Lampman Community Health Centre Trust, Faith Lutheran Church in Lampman, the Lampman & District Lions Club or the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #330 in Lampman. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan provided care to the Wilhelm family – Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.

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

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

For Sale - MiSc FOR SALE: 2015 VOLVO and 2017 grain bulker B-train. For more info phone 306-338-7006.

Auctions WARD’S & BUD HAYNES FIREARMS AUCTION, Saturday, April 24th, Edmonton, AB. Online Bidding, Live Preview April 23rd. WardsAuctions.com. Consign Now. Brad Ward 780-940-8378.

Farm ServiceS

In Memoriam Raymond Neumann In loving memory of Raymond, who passed away March 13, 2020. Treasured memories keep you near. As time unfolds this past year. No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there. Sadly missed by your wife Marion, son Neil, granddaughters Carissa and family, and Chenise and family.

Feed & Seed

CROP HAIL ADJUSTERS for the 2021 hail season. (July - October) Semi-retired or retired this job is for you! Competitive salary, all expenses & mileage paid, health spending account and pension plan. We provide extensive training using our industry leading crop hail adjusting program. Email: dtiefenbach@smhi.ca for application form and job overview. 306-569-1852 ext 170.

Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable. Clean drivers abstract a must.

Business OppOrtunities LOOKING TO SELL YOUR MINERAL RIGHTS OR OTHER OIL & GAS RIGHTS? E-mail Paul Clark, Land Manager, with details and a legal description, at: pclark@bountydev.com. We will evaluate your property and consider making you an offer, Calgary, AB. pclark@bountydev.com (403) 718-7427

EMMA OLISCHEFSKI “ The Light of Our Lives” Who passed away March 16,2004. The special years will not return, When we were all together, But with the love inside our hearts, You will walk with us forever. Love Terry, Brian, and Gaylene

Currently accepting applications for

Heavy Duty Mechanics required:

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

Feed & Seed

Career OppOrtunities

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

Public Notice Rural Municipality of Estevan No. 5 Notice of Intent to Amend the Zoning Bylaw

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Pursuant to Section 207 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, the Council of the Rural Municipality of Estevan No.5 hereby gives notice of its intention to amend Zoning Bylaw 5-2014 by passing bylaw 2021-02. Intent: The proposed bylaw will add shops and garages as a discretionary use and reduce the minimum site frontage for NonFarm Residential in the Agricultural Resource District (AR). Reason: The reason for the text amendment is to allow for shops and garages to be principal use buildings in the Agricultural Resource District (AR), as a discretionary use. The amendment also makes it less restrictive by reducing the minimum site frontage from 46 meters to 30 meters for Non-Farm Residential sites in the Agricultural Resource District (AR). Public Inspection: Any person may inspect the proposed bylaw at the R.M. of Estevan Municipal Office at #1 – 322 – 4th Street, Estevan, Saskatchewan between 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available at cost. Public Hearing: Council will hold a public hearing to receive submissions, written or verbal, on the proposed bylaw at 11:00 a.m. (local time) on Wednesday, April 14th, 2021 in the Council Chambers of the R.M. of Estevan No. 5, #1-322 4th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan. Those wishing to make verbal representation are required to register with the municipal office due to limited space in Council Chambers and COVID-19 social distancing requirements. Please contact the municipal office at (306) 634-2222 for details prior to Friday, April 9th, 2021. Dated at Estevan, Saskatchewan this 17th day of March, 2021. Michelle Dickie, Administrator

A20 March 17, 2021

www.estevanmercury.ca

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

PRODUCTION WORKERS • Required Immediately

Duties include:

• Assembling and installing modular components Send, fax, e-mail or drop off resume to:

SHELTER

Box 845 #200 Hwy. 18 West, Estevan, SK S4A 2A7 Fax: 306-634-7597 jobs.shelter@gmail.com www.shelterhomes.ca

TOWN OF MIDALE 2021 ASSESSEMENT ROLL Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the Town of Midale for the year of 2021 has been prepared and is open for inspection in the office of the Tax Assessor (233 Main Street Midale SK) from: March 19th, 2021 to May 21st, 2021 during regular office hours (Monday-Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm) and Wednesday May 21st, 2021 from 8:30am to 4:00pm. We will also be accepting email inquiries at townofmidaleadmin@sasktel.net. A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

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

Any person wishing to appeal against his/her assessment is required to file a notice of appeal in writing along with a $25.00 fee to: Tax Assessor Box 128, Midale SK S0C 1S0 Dated this 19th day of March, 2021. Linda Dugan Tax Assessor Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Frobisher

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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 with: Kate Halkyard, Assessor of the Village of Frobisher, PO Box 190, Bienfait SK, S0C 0M0, by the 19th day of May, 2021. The appeal must be accompanied by a cheque made payable to The Village of Frobisher, in the amount of $30 per $200,000 of assessment value to a maximum of $500.00, which will be returned if the appeal results in a change to the assessment.

AGM

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

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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

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CROSSWORD ANSWER

WE ARE LOOKING FOR A SALESPERSON!

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Frobisher for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open for inspection between the dates of March 17, 2021 to May 19, 2021. It can be viewed in the office of the assessor at 423 Main Street, Bienfait, SK, Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

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Raffle Tickets Booklets Cheques whatever you need printed!

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March 17, 2021 A21

Jay Pierson was a big part of the community The community has been mourning the loss of Estevan Police Service (EPS) Const. Jay Pierson, who died of natural causes earlier this month at the age of 49. He spent nearly four decades living in Estevan, after his family moved to the community in 1984. In July 1998, he joined the Estevan Police Service, and was one of their longest-tenured members. Pierson spent the majority of his career as a forensic identification officer but also held the positions of detective in major crimes and was an acting sergeant during his career. Pierson was the president of the Estevan Police Association and a board member with the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers from 20032013.

He was also one of the EPS officers who joined the Combined Traffic Services of Saskatchewan’s Southeast Unit. And in 2017, he became the EPS’s school resource officer, a natural role since he studied education at Brandon University before ultimately opting for a career in law enforcement. Pierson had been on leave since 2017 due to post-traumatic stress disorder. His case received provincial attention in his efforts to receive benefits from the Worker’s Compensation Board. He won an appeal in his case against the Estevan board of police commissioners at the Court of Queen’s Bench level in the spring of 2020, and last fall, the WCB reversed a previous decision, which allowed Pierson to receive benefits.

In the community, Pierson also took a leadership role. For several years, he captained a team of local first responders who would raise funds for the Movember Foundation by growing moustaches. The foundation raises money for the fight against cancer and for men’s mental health initiatives. It was particularly meaningful for Pierson, as his father Jerry battled prostate cancer for several years. Jay Pierson would often be the top fundraiser for Movember in the Estevan area, and his team would usually finish first as well. He was also on the board for the Envision Counselling and Support Centre. Flags were flying at half-

New fundraiser will support humane society The Estevan Humane Society has embarked on a new fundraiser with a talented artist who is also an animal lover. BJ Zieger, who owns Lucky Buddha Tattoo, will provide a tattoo or portrait of a pet/animal of choice for the winner of a raffle. For the tattoo, Zieger asks the owner to provide him with the highest-quality picture possible. “Then I choose the best one that is going to make the best tattoo, and then we find the best placement of it,” said Zieger. He says he does a lot of

pet tattoos, and they’re always fun to complete. It’s something that is growing in popularity as tattoos become more common. He has done the animals you’d expect, such as dogs, cats, birds, fish and rabbits, but he’s also handled some different animals. “People love their pets, and it’s a great thing to do,” said Zieger. He’ll tie in flowers, names or the animal’s favourite toy with the pet. The portrait, meanwhile, allows him to display his creativity in a different way, and for the owner to be creative as

well. Zieger has done paintings of cats in space or sitting at a piano or on a record player. “A painting will take up to 15 or 20 hours, while a tattoo takes six or seven,” said Zieger. Zieger is an animal lover who recently adopted a puppy. Initially the humane society was going to make the draw for the tattoo or portrait the night of its gala dinner on Feb. 6, but decided to extend the draw date to April 6 in an effort to sell more tickets as they had only been available since early January. Raffle tickets are $20 each and the prize is valued at $700.

Commercial Properties

For Sale by Tender 107 Broadway Lots 29-31, Block 03, Plan 11751

Please Note: There is currently an open building permit on this property which will need to be addressed.

610 Railway Ave Lots 4-7, PT Lot 8, Block 03, Plan 11751 Property to be purchased in current condition and includes any contents currently on the property. To setup an appointment to view the property or for more information on the property, please contact the Town Office at 306-482-3300. Appointments will only be made during regular business hours and for interested parties only. Tenders to be received by: Friday, April 9th at 4:00 p.m. Submission of tenders: Dropped off at 1312 Railway Avenue, mailed to Box 100, Carnduff, SK, S0C 0S0 or emailed to info@carnduff.ca Tenders to include: Price of tender being submitted, plan for the property including a timeline. Tender Notes: • Highest tender or any tender not necessarily accepted. • Consideration will be given to the plan for the property. • Submitted tender prices will be subject to GST. • The successful applicant will be responsible for the title transfer cost.

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mast in front of several buildings in Estevan on March 11 and 12 after word of Pierson’s passing spread across the community. Tributes poured in for Pierson from the community. Law enforcement agencies from across Canada have been passing on their condolences. Many people have posted a blue ribbon in honour of him on social media. The tributes talked about what a dedicated officer Pierson was, how much family and friends meant to him, and how much he loved the community. Pierson’s friend, former Estevan resident Brad Chapman, performed Eric Clapton’s Tears in Heaven in honour of the long-time EPS officer in a video that was posted to YouTube.

Jay Pierson

Results announced for In Motion Saskatchewan’s Go Out and Play Challenge Three southeast Saskatchewan communities were entered in the 10th and final Saskatchewan Blue Cross/In Motion Go Out and Play Challenge. Meadow Lake took top spot in the competition. Residents and supporters of that community logged more than 538,700 minutes of physical activity to hang on to the grand prize in the 10day challenge, which ran from March 1-10. The community will use the $10,000 in prize money to improve lighting in Lions Park. “It’s so great to see communities rally like this in support of outdoor play,” said Saskatchewan In Motion manager Marnie Forsberg.“After a year of COVID restrictions, spending time outside is more important than ever.” Coming in second with 507,431 minutes was Langenburg. The community will put its $5,000 prize toward the town’s swimming pool project. It was a record year for the challenge. Supporters of 38 communities recorded more than five million minutes to support projects that

get kids and families out to play. In addition to the winners, 15 communities, including Carlyle, logged more than 100,000 minutes during the challenge. Carlyle wound up in 14th spot. Lampman and Midale were also entered. They finished 24th and 26th, respectively. Over 10 years, the challenge awarded $165,000 to 20 outdoor play projects and participants logged more than 28 million minutes of physical activity. “It’s nice to think that we’ve left a real legacy of play across the province with the help of our partner Saskatchewan Blue Cross,” says Forsberg. “The challenge always brings out such great community spirit and pride. Creating ways for communities to spur physical activity, safe connection and engagement has never been more essential,” says Cheryl de Villiers, director of marketing and external affairs for Saskatchewan Blue Cross. “It’s powerful to see 38 communities from across the province step up to take part in this incredible funding opportunity this year.”

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CHEERS & JEERS A22 | Wednesday, March 17, 2021 | estevanmercury.ca

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Flashback – Wednesday, March 18, 1987 Cheers Cheers to all drivers who stopped on King Street and Souris Avenue North when a woman’s little dog got away. A very special thank you to the woman who stopped and helped the dog’s owner catch the dog and ensure they crossed the street safely. Cheers to the Estevan Mercury for saluting the women of Estevan this month. It’s wonderful to see all of the women from the different sectors of the community. Cheers to the resumption of in-person learning for all students at the Estevan Comprehensive School on a daily basis. They should have never been spending every second day learning from home to begin with. Cheers to the students at Hillcrest School who had their works selected for a provincial writing publication, and to the school for placing an emphasis on writing for all students. Cheers to the number of people we saw outside enjoying the great weather once again this past weekend. Hopefully people get lots of opportunities to have fun outdoors over the next seven months. Cheers to the City of Estevan for posting a link to YouTube for open city council meetings. For those who don’t have Access Now, it’s a good way to keep tabs on council.

Jeers Jeers to those who still seem to think that the parking lot for the Estevan Fire Rescue Service building is a through road, or a shortcut to get from 13th Avenue to Souris Avenue North. It`s not. It’s been more than three years since the fire department moved in there; find a different way. Jeers to drivers who continue to speed in school zones and playground zones, putting the health and safety of children at risk.

Three students from Hillcrest School received certificates of merit and cash awards for winning in the Elks Purple Cross literary and poster contest. In front, from left, Peggy Anderson (first), Melissa Main (second) and Karise Grummett (third). At the back is Jean Broadhead, Honored Royal Lady for the Order of the Royal Purple.

Failure does not have to be fatal Failure can be devastating. Long after the event, our bad choices and actions can weigh us down and colour our self-image in negative ways. It can be hard to forgive yourself and forget what went wrong. How does God see your failures? There are many ways to answer that question, but one of the best comes from the night that Jesus was arrested and crucified. At nightfall, Jesus took his disciples to a garden east of Jerusalem and asked them to pray for him. However, they fell asleep. When he found them, he said, “Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?” (Matthew 26:40) and urged them to pray for him.

Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ When he came back a second time, instead of finding dedicated, praying disciples, he found his friends sleeping again. This time, Jesus did not wake them. Rather, he let them sleep while he prayed one more time. With his enemies closing in, Jesus returned to the disciples and said, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look the time is near … Rise, let us go!” (verses 45-46). Those last four words are important.

When Jesus’ friends failed him, he did not say that they were disqualified and could not be his followers anymore. He did not yell and scream or shame them for their lack of discipline. He did not point out every other time they failed to do what they should have done. Instead, Jesus simply said, “Rise, let us go!” In other words, “You missed that opportunity. It is gone and there is nothing that can be done about that, so

get up and do the next thing you can do.” To be clear, I am not condoning sin or even carelessness. However, it is worth remembering that Jesus knows that we sometimes drop the ball and that we do not always live out of our best intentions. “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (verse 41). Jesus graciously responds to that weakness by saying, “Start over and try again.” In fact, the Bible has a word for that. It is called repentance. While we need to learn from past mistakes, it is never helpful to dwell on what cannot be changed. It is much more useful to look forward and make the most of the next opportunity that comes along.

Jeers to the condition of some of the highways in southeast Saskatchewan, particularly Highway 47 from Estevan to Highway 1, and the fact it’s not likely to get any better.

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

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kids speak Why is farming important to Saskatchewan?

jayden

Age: 12 “It helps put food in the stores and it’s good for jobs.”

Age: 13 “It helps with food, it’s a way to have fun and it provides jobs.”

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