KT Tape, Protein Bars for the athlete and parents on the move. Saluting all Minor Hockey teams in our community!
HENDERS DRUGS 1220 4th Street, Estevan
306-634-3666
Mon. - Fri. 9am-9pm | Sat. 9am-5pm Sun. & Holidays 12pm-4pm
Celebrating young stars. The Mercury’s annual Salute to Minor Hockey special can be found on PAGES A7-14
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024
READ IT ONLINE AT
Estevan doctor facing 14 new charges from Sask’s College of Physicians and Surgeons By Ana Byhovskaia and David Willberg
Years of excellence. Local auctioneer inducted into provincial hall of honour. PAGE A2
Sweet addition to the service. EPS welcomes their latest member – Cherry the dog. PAGES A3
What’s up at the market? Estevan’s latest news from the world of real estate. PAGE A5
Awards time. Estevan Wildlife Federation recognizes members’ achievements at a banquet. PAGE A14
Content warning: This article contains material that some might f ind distressing. Estevan’s Dr. Mehdi Horri is facing 14 new disciplinary charges, according to information the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan (CPSS) posted to its website in late January. Allegations of unprofessional conduct involve three patients and have been referred to the college’s discipline committee. “The allegations in the charge[s] have not been admitted, nor has there been a hearing before the discipline committee to determine whether the allegations in the charge will be proved,” explains the college. “A physician who denies some or all of the allegations in a charge is entitled to a hearing before the discipline committee to determine if the allegations in the charge are established by the evidence at the hearing.” The CPSS has charged Horri with the following: 1) Performing a surgical procedure in regard to patient No. 1 without adequate prior investigation and/or without obtaining an opinion from a surgeon, and/or thereby not maintaining the standard of practice of the profession; 2) Performing a surgical procedure in an office setting unsuited for the procedure and/or not applying sufficient clinical knowledge or
surgical skill to the performance of the procedure, and/or therefore not maintaining the standard of practice of the profession; 3) Not obtaining informed consent for the surgical procedure performed on patient No. 1 and/or therefore maintaining the standard of practice of the profession; 4) Not providing adequate postoperative instructions and timely postoperative care to patient No. 1 and/or therefore not maintaining the standard of practice of the profession; 5) Not having a chaperone present during a procedure with female patient No. 1, contrary to Horri’s 2018 undertaking with the college; 6) Altering medical records related to patient No. 1 after becoming aware of a college investigation into his conduct with that patient; 7) Performing a rectal examination on patient No. 2 that was not medically indicated; 8) Not having a chaperone present during a procedure with female patient No. 2, contrary to his 2018 undertaking with the college; 9) Altering medical records related to patient No. 2 after becoming aware of a college investigation into his conduct with that patient; 10) Inappropriately touching and/or making comments on a female patient’s genitals during an examination. The evidence, according to the CPSS, that will be provided in support of this charge will include one or more of the following: •On or about July 14, 2022, he had a patient encounter with
Dr. Mehdi Horri patient No. 3; •During the course of a pap smear procedure, the CPSS says Horri pinched the patient’s labia between his fingers, moved the labia back and forth, and/or asked whether the patient had ever considered surgery to remove the excess, or words to that effect. •The CPSS alleges the specific touching he conducted was not medically indicated and/or not consented to by the patient. 11) Altering medical records related to patient No. 3 after becoming aware of a college investigation into
his conduct with that patient; 12) Harassing and/or encouraging a potential witness in a college investigation into his conduct to provide false information. The evidence, according to the CPSS, that will be provided in support of this charge will include one or more of the following: •On or about Dec. 24, 2022, the CPSS says Horri had been advised that the college was investigating his conduct and that a potential interim suspension of his ability to practise would be considered; A2 » HORRI
City responds to claims about downtown revitalization project’s costs By David Willberg Members of Estevan city council have spent the past week refuting claims that the proposed revitalization project for downtown Estevan is going to cost $40 million-$50 million. A video, posted by an anonymous user to the WTF Estevan Facebook group last week, had a link to the Concern Citizens Estevan Sk’s YouTube page. A narrator claims city council has green-lighted the project. “A concept video created by George Harris Collaborative Inc. shows what the City of Estevan wants to turn our downtown into,” the video states. “They want to take a portion of Fourth Street
and the surrounding blocks and turn downtown into a walking street metropolis, with plans for seasonal street patios, windscreen and art features, informational kiosks, as well as replacing parking lots with a central park, complete with beach volleyball courts and running tracks, as well as an entertainment stage, among other amenities.” The YouTube video goes on to say the city has moved into Phase 1 of this project, which has a cost of $8.3 million, and the city has applied for a federal grant of $6.6 million. The narrator goes on to say the city would be required to spend $1.5 million to complete A2 »FEDERAL
The costs associated with a downtown revitalization project have been questioned by the group Concerned Citizens Estevan Sk.
Call our Fuel Team today 306-637-4330 or 306-421-1484
A2 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
Jason LeBlanc inducted into Sask Auctioneers’ Hall By David Willberg Retired Estevan auctioneer Jason LeBlanc is one of the newest members of the Saskatchewan Auctioneers' Association's Auction Era Hall of Honour. LeBlanc was inducted at the association's 50th Anniversary Convention and Annual General Meeting on Jan. 31 at the Western Development Museum in North Battleford. Also inducted were Barrie Jung of Melfort and Ivan White of North Battleford. In his bio, it was noted LeBlanc was born into a hardworking farm family that ran a mixed grain and cattle operation in the Estevan area. Around the age of 12, he started working at the local auction mart, cleaning corrals, tagging cattle and listening to the auctioneers. While working at the business and attending many purebred cattle auctions, he was intrigued by the sounds of auctioneers Jerry Kenawasher and Otto Streberg, as they had two completely different sounds and unique ways of selling. In 1989, when LeBlanc was 18 years old, he was preparing to take a welding course. At the same time, Streberg happened to be at the Estevan Auction Mart promoting the Camrose College of Auctioneering. LeBlanc had never even entertained the idea of becoming an auctioneer until that moment. He began his auction career in January 1990, practising daily in his tractor while sorting
cattle. LeBlanc took auctioneering gigs for charities, which paid dividends when Bob Goud, a family friend and local auctioneer, noticed LeBlanc and asked him to help on many household and farm auctions. LeBlanc was paid $40 a day. He was let go the following year, but Goud encouraged LeBlance to start up on his own company so that LeBlanc could give other auctioneers in the southeast some competition. LeBlanc booked his first sale on June 22, 1991, with Tenold Farm Equipment and they allowed him to take consignment items. Del Godman of Del's Commercial Printing agreed to print posters at no cost until LeBlanc was up and running, but only if LeBlanc would help make the posters Needing an auction licence and a business name, LeBlanc Auction Service was born and LeBlanc was the youngest licensed and bonded auctioneer in Canada at the time. Family and friends helped out with the sale. Competition was tough, but he helped other auction companies when needed and they did the same for him. LeBlanc married Sherrill Bossaer from North Battleford in 1997 and she started helping with auctions as a clerk by proofreading posters and working many farm, household and antique sales in the sale-day office. Sherrill LeBlanc switched gears and ran the Estevan office after their first daughter Megan was born. They had two other
daughters, Marci and Gracie, and Sherrill LeBlanc stepped aside after Gracie's birth. "LeBlanc Auction Service started small, but quickly grew to conducting up to two farm auctions per day in April, June and October, plus Jason sold commercial livestock auctions three days a week in the farm off-season," his bio stated. In 2004, LeBlanc Auction Service officially joined Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, becoming the first Saskatchewan agricultural auction company acquisition for Ritchie Bros. LeBlanc put in many long hours as regional sales manager for Saskatchewan and Manitoba and as an auctioneer, while his wife worked full time as office manager in Estevan. LeBlanc eventually stepped down from the regional manager position and continued on as an auctioneer until his last sale on Dec. 13, 2019. "Jason feels he has been so fortunate to have been in this business during a time that started with no cell phone, no fax machines, no internet, no enclosed toppers, no office trailers, etc. He has lived through the advancements in this industry," the bio stated. He had multi-million dollar sales in Saskatchewan and Canada, as well as in places like Orlando and Dubai. "Jason is grateful for the opportunities the auction business has provided him in his lifetime," said the bio. LeBlanc said he was "humbled and honoured" to
Horri able to practise with restrictions « A1 •In a text message conversation on or about Dec. 24, 2022, he told a potential witness to the investigation that “all they need to hear is that I see my female patients with a chaperone. That’s it and that’s all”. •After further conversation by text message, the potential witness asked him “so lie?” and he responded: “Yes this is not the time to think about integrity”.•On or about Dec. 27, 2022, Horri sent the potential witness information from his lawyer indicating that he may be suspended by the college, then asked the potential witness whether they “still think these people deserve honesty”.; 13) Failing to maintain appropriate medical records for patients No. 1, 2 and/ or 3; 14) Between 2018 and 2023 inclusive, having encounters with female patients without a chaperone present, contrary to his 2018 undertaking with the college. H o r r i re s t a r t e d h i s practice on Jan. 1, 2024, after being suspended for
two months for breaching an undertaking by seeing a female patient on March 20, 2023, without a chaperone, and further breaching the undertaking by not reporting the initial breach to the CPSS. His status with the CPSS is currently listed as on the register, which means he is still practising. Horri’s history of unprofessional conduct dates back more than a decade with cases in Ontario and Estevan. His licence was revoked for nine months in 2017 and 2018 for having a sexual relationship with a former patient too soon after the termination of the doctor-patient relationship, stemming from when Horri was still practising in Ontario. Bryan Salte, associate registrar for the CPSS, said if a physician is found guilty of unprofessional conduct, or admits unprofessional conduct, the penalty imposed would reflect the seriousness of the charge. He also pointed out Horri is practising under
Super Bowl LVIII Party Sunday February 11th , 5:00 pm Great food and door prizes for a good will donation
20 Main St. Portal, ND 58772
Congratulations On Your New Bundle Of Joy! Jesver Frank Sales Born January 28, 2024
significant restrictions, including the requirement that there be a practice monitor in place for all interactions with female patients. The requirements include prior approval of the practice monitor by the college, which is only granted after the practice monitor meets with a college official and has signed an undertaking with the college related to her role. Salte went on to say female patients are required to sign a consent before meeting with Horri. The patient record for each encounter with a female patient will include the name of the practice monitor. Horri is required to post a sign in his clinic advising patients of the chaperone requirement. Practice monitors must report regularly to the college. He is also subject to a requirement that he not perform any invasive procedures which involve a scalpel or stitches in his office. He also cannot provide propofol to any patient. Horri’s attorney could not immediately be reached for comment. A date for a disciplinary hearing has not been scheduled. The full report can be viewed on the CPSS’s website.
Jason LeBlanc was inducted into the Saskatchewan Auctioneers' Wall of Fame last Wednesday in North Battleford. Photo courtesy of Jason LeBlanc be inducted in front of so many auctioneers who helped transition many farmers' lives into retirement. "You also become a bit of a counsellor and a marriage advisor and a bunch of things going on with an auctioneer. When I stood up there [at the induction ceremony] and I saw the people that were in there before me, I realized how important they were in their communities," said LeBlanc. It was a very nice celebration, with lots of past acquaintances, friends, fellow auctioneers and competitors in attendance. A PowerPoint presentation had photos from
throughout LeBlanc's career. He also knows the other people he was inducted with. Jung had an empire of an auction company, LeBlanc said, and employed many people. And when LeBlanc was getting started, he attended many of White's auctions and learned a lot through White's quick wit, humour and ability to conduct an auction sale. LeBlanc said he misses auctioneering but the business has changed a lot in today's world of online sales. "They're all online, and it's just a different way of doing it. Do I miss it? Yes, I miss it daily. I never had a bad day
at an auction sale, but I don't miss the way it is now." LeBlanc said there are many who helped him, including Godman and John Empey with their support early in his career. Howard Symons helped him get licensed and bonded. Jumbo Panteluk was the one who introduced LeBlanc Auction Service to Dave Ritchie with Ritchie Bros. He had many great employees, some of whom worked for LeBlanc for over a decade, and his family helped him throughout his career. "I didn't do it by myself. I happened to be the guy on the mic," said LeBlanc.
Federal funding needed for downtown project « A1 all of the underground water main and sewer utilities for the project. The federal government committed $750,000 last year for fully detailed engineering bid packages.The YouTube video also pointed out this is happening when the city has approved a budget with a property tax increase and when Estevan’s population is declining. Comments in the Facebook group varied, ranging from criticism of the project to calls for the money to be spent in other directions, to criticism of the poster for failing to put their name to the post. The video also said a petition would go out in the near future in an effort to half the project. Mayor Roy Ludwig said the Concerned Citizens Estevan group is trying to put as bad of a light on the project as possible. He pointed out that the city received about $150,000 from the PrairiesCan fund for design work on downtown enhancements, which was awarded to Harris, and right now the city is looking at Phase 1 of the project. The city also received $750,000 in federal funding last year to cover the initial engineering design, consultation, bid documentation and procurement tendering. Ludwig said should they get the federal money for downtown, it would look great upon
completion. “Although they seem very optimistic that we’re going to get the $6.5 million to get the project [moving forward], we still to date have not got the money. Nothing further will be going ahead until we get the $6.5 million,” said Ludwig. He also pointed out the underground infrastructure in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Fourth Street needs to be replaced eventually. “Everything will be laid bare, so of course there would be a great opportunity at cost savings for us to replace the aging underground [infrastructure],” said Ludwig. He noted the sewer and the water mains are stacked above each other in those blocks, which is no longer viewed as a good practice. As for whether other phases could be completed, Ludwig said that would be up to future councils. Ludwig believes council remains on board with the project, and the city has received positive feedback from the downtown businesses. Coun. Travis Frank said the video was filled with “many misleading and false claims about the project” that he’d like to clear up so that members of the community can be properly educated on the subject and form informed opinions. He pointed out that the video on George Harris Collaborative Inc. had been viewed many times, contrary to Concerned Citizens’ claims, and council has been open and transparent about the project. “Numerous public forums, including one at a city-wide
registration, online surveys and consultations have happened. Recently, each and every business on Fourth Street was contacted directly about the project one by one,” said Frank. Many members of the community came together to discuss ideas and designs which eventually led to the final design. Coun. Kirsten Walliser said on her Facebook page that council and administration have been hard at work soliciting feedback, and gaining clarity and insights about downtown revitalization since 2021. She added she’d be happy to provide details or answer questions about both the project and the process. Ludwig said he believes people are feeling overwhelmed and in perpetual crisis mode amid post-pandemic life, trucker protests, inflation, high food costs, mental health issues, addictions, homelessness, and housing and rental increases. “The use of misinformation and personal attacks is becoming more common on social media, which makes it harder to find common ground. The debate on climate change is making people more anxious,” said Ludwig. “The growing distrust of media and democratic institutions is dividing and polarizing proper discourse. Some people and groups have lost sight of how fortunate we are to live in a safe and democratic country. “We don’t live in a perfect world, but it is important that we try to contribute to our community in a positive and meaningful way. We should be able to have public discourse and debate controversial issues in a civil manner.”
Bring The Heat This
Winter
Proud Parents are: Archiebald Sales and Christine Gay Sales (Sanchez) Sibling to Jasper Jaden Sales 1037-5th Street 306.634.5172 www.johnsonplumbing.ca
FLOORING FLOORING
for for real real life. life.
COMMUNITY A3
| Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
Estevan Kinettes fundraising for TeleMiracle 48 By Ana Bykhovskaia The Estevan Kinettes are putting in many hours, preparing and fundraising for TeleMiracle 48, which will take place on Feb. 24 and 25 in Regina and raise funds for the Kinsmen TeleMiracle Foundation. Their fourth annual online auction, featured through the Estevan Kinettes Online Auction for TeleMiracle Facebook group, ran from Jan. 31-Feb. 3. Krissy Wallman, the TeleMiracle club representative, said the group size almost doubled since last year and they also received almost twice as many donations this time around. "There were 207 items on our auction this year, which is phenomenal. The response we got from the community was so great this year," Wallman shared. "Last year, we had 117, I believe, and before that, it was under 100." The auction raised just under $11,000. It was the best result they have had in the auction's history. On Feb. 2, Estevan Kinettes were also at the Estevan Bruins game, selling helping hands, accepting donations and featuring some raffle items to be won. They also did a chuck-a-puck that night. On the Feb. 19 Family Day, Kinettes, with support from Royal LePage Dream Realty, are hosting a movie day at the Orpheum Theatre. The day will feature Butterfly Tale. Admission is $2, and all proceeds will go towards the TeleMiracle total.
Last year's TeleMiracle in Saskatoon raised over $5.5 million. File photo Until Feb. 20, the club is accepting recycling donations through SARCAN in Estevan, with the drop-and-go to be made out to the Estevan Kinette Club. There are also coin boxes set up at Beatz Eatz, Fired Up Grill and Henders Drugs, and helping hands can be purchased at Henders with a chance to win a raffle prize. It's expected that possibly four local Kinettes will be going to Regina to help with TeleMiracle on the days of the event. Wallman shadowed the club rep position last year and filled it this year for the first time, but she's been involved with TeleMiracle for quite a few years.
"I have a passion for TeleMiracle, so I like to get involved whenever I can," Wallman said. "Me and my daughter have done fundraising since TeleMiracle 40. We started doing something simple and then it went bigger and bigger. And then my dad received funding from TeleMiracle for a motorized scooter, so we held more raffles and fundraisers." Wallman even got pied last year as part of raising money for TeleMiracle. Her daughter Tianna is helping with fundraising in Estevan, as she raised some money herself through running a concession stand at their yard sale, and will be joining Wallman in Regina to
a full-time member of the EPS as the service therapy dog. Cherry was still a bit timid while getting to know her new country, new city, new home and new workplace in the last days of January. A rescue from Mexico, Cherry arrived in Canada on Jan. 28, came to Estevan on Jan. 29 and visited the EPS for the first time the next day. “Companion Paws Canada helped us locate her and are helping with ongoing training,” said Estevan Police Chief Rich Lowen. “She’s going to be our therapy dog in terms of wellness for our
members, she will be able to interact and socialize with our members and [provide] just a bit of comfort for officers that go through continuous trauma as we see a lot of trauma in our careers. And to have a little furry friend like this to be able to bring us a little bit of comfort is going to be a nice addition to the service.” Cherry still has a lot of training and the certificate program to go through, but Lowen said they hope she’ll be with the service for a long time. Helping the little dog through this journey will be her volunteer handler, Const. Deanna Conquergood. The newest EPS member is about two years old, the vet estimated, and is a mixed breed. Lowen noted that they had to find a dog that would be hypoallergenic and also the right size, and Cherry checked all the boxes. “We’ve been working through 2023 to find a suitable candidate, and it was a challenge,” Lowen said. “There’s lots of dogs that are looking for rescue and dogs that are being trained. But we had to find one that’s appropriate for us. It couldn’t be too small, because we do have a police dog and we wanted to make
volunteer at the event as well. This year, 75 talented performers from across the province will appear on TeleMiracle 48. These acts were chosen through an audition process. A national cast of hosts and performers will guide viewers through 20 hours of making miracles happen once again across Saskatchewan. This year's national cast features a second-generation Johner Boys' singer-songwriter Luc Johner, who will perform solo for the first time, joining his father, Midale's Brad Johner, who will be hosting TeleMiracle for the 27th year. Joining the cast for the first time will also be White Bear's Teagan Littlechief, the
Saskatchewan Country Music Association's Indigenous Artist of the Year. From the southeast, Breanna Bjarnason of Stoughton is also on the list of performers for TeleMiacle 48. Skilled performers from various regions across Saskatchewan will take the stage, highlighting the diverse talent within the province. Additionally, the telethon will present stories of impact, sharing experiences from individuals in Saskatchewan who have received support thanks to the generosity of TeleMiracle donors. In addition to Brad Johner, TeleMiracle 48 includes veteran hosts Beverley Mahood, Jeffery Straker,
EPS welcomes its newest four-pawed member
By Ana Bykhovskaia The latest Estevan Police member knows nothing about policing but is learning a lot about supporting humans through the toughest times. Cherry the dog joined the EPS at the end of January through Companion Paws Canada, an organization dedicated to supporting Canadians in need of specially-trained and supportive therapy furry fellows while providing a second chance for pets in rescues through The LifeLine Canada Foundation. Cherry will be completing her training to be
Cherry came to the Estevan Police Service through Companion Paws Canada and will be completing her training to be a full-time member of the EPS as the service therapy dog.
sure that those two don’t cause each other triggers because a police dog can develop a prey kind of mentality. And it couldn’t be too big either. “[Our therapy dog] had to be a certain size, so it took us a while to find her. And then they had to go through training. And that took a while as well.” Max, the EPS dog that’s been a part of the service since 2017, working with handler Const. Paul Chabot, is not going to meet Cherry, Lowen said, as the two have different purposes. Max is a police dog, while Cherry’s main jobs will be therapeutic and social. “I’d like to see, at the end of the day, that she has free range of the station, walk anywhere in the station, and just be around the members when they feel they need her contact,” Lowen explained. “[The hope is after completing the training], she recognizes that a person needs a little contact, and then she’ll approach them, and she’ll feel brave enough, won’t be timid and be okay to sit quietly with somebody and have that contact, which helps people feel better. “I think it’s a real benefit. The healthier our members
Celebrate
Valentine’s Day February 14th to 18th
Jill Straker, Lisa Franks and the return of the TeleMiracle House Band (Sheldon Corbett, Jack Semple, Dave Chabot, Don Griffith and Glenn Ens). New cast members this year all hail from Saskatchewan. Joining the telethon will be Dione Taylor, a Prairie Blues artist, born and raised in Regina; and Jay Semko, the vocalist and bassist for The Northern Pikes, from Saskatoon. Also joining the national cast is Sabeen Ahmad of CTV Regina. Entering its 48th year, the annual telethon has raised over $159 million for the people of Saskatchewan since its inception. Donors can "Ring Those Phones" and call in their pledge during the telethon broadcast or donate online year-round at www.telemiracle.com. The excitement begins on Feb. 24 at 6:15 p.m. with Countdown to TeleMiracle, which is live streamed at www.telemiracle.com. The live broadcast begins at 9 p.m. across the CTV Saskatchewan network and at www.telemiracle.com, concluding on Feb. 25 at 5 p.m. with the reveal of the final telethon total. The Kinsmen Foundation provides funding to individuals for special needs equipment or travel assistance to access medical treatment; to group homes for special needs equipment; and to institutions and health foundations to purchase specialized new or innovative equipment to improve health care.
Estevan Police Chief Rich Lowen welcomed Cherry to the service. feel, the better they work for the people of Estevan,” Lowen added. For the EPS, Cherry will be their first therapy dog, but more and more furry helpers are joining police services globally to support officers in dealing with stress accumulated through work. Therapy dogs play a crucial role in law enforcement by significantly
Special menu: Soup
Lobster Bisque
Appetizers
mitigating immediate heightened anxiety after critical incidents. Additionally, they have the potential to enhance recall during debriefing sessions. Moreover, these animals have been demonstrated to be effective in assisting individuals in coping with prolonged post-traumatic stress, according to the U.S. Police Magazine.
CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR DATE!
306-636-2323
Baja Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers Pico de Gallo • Spinach Dip
Entrees
Prime Rib Homemade Chicken CordonBleu Steak & Lobster Seafood Delight
Homemade Desserts Gourmet Cheesecakes
76 Souris Ave. N., Estevan
306-636-2323
Order online firedupgrill.ca
EDITORIAL A4
| Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
Staff SERVING CANADA’S SUNSHINE CAPITAL
Sales Manager
Christine Jones - cjones@estevanmercury.ca
Sales Kim Ball - kball@estevanmercury.ca
Editor David Willberg - dwillberg@estevanmercury.ca
Editorial Staff Ana Bykhovskaia - abykhovskaia@estevanmercury.ca
Production Manager Ana Villarreal - avillarreal@estevanmercury.ca
Administration Morgan Hodgens - mohodgens@estevanmercury.ca
EDITORIAL
Volume 118 Issue 30 Contact us: (306) 634-2654 68 Souris Avenue N. Estevan, SK S4A 2M3 www.estevanmercury.ca @Estevan_Mercury facebook.com/EstevanMercury
Subscription Rates:
In Saskatchewan - $105 In Canada - $126
Hockey remains great for kids Sports can be one of the highlights from a child's life. Ask them about their experiences years later. Yes, there are those who don't have positive times in hockey, baseball or other sports and it will dampen their enthusiasm for the game in the future. Others will say they had a mixture of good and bad, but most will have largely positive reflections. It's particularly wonderful at the younger ages. Watch the kids when they're playing in the Estevan Minor Hockey Association's U7 tournament. They're just learning the sport. Many of them are in their first season of hockey. You'll see all of them gathered in the corner for a prolonged stretch of time, all trying to retrieve the puck. And shortly after the black, hard rubber disc is freed, it's lodged in another corner, and the players are battling for it again. There'll be that one player on each team who is more advanced than everyone else and skates circles around opponents. In the end, though, there's no scorekeeping, no player of the game awards, no wins or losses record and no tournament all-stars. It's just about having fun. As they get older, you can add all of these elements to the game. Minor hockey isn't just about learning the fundamentals of the sport. It's about life
lessons. Even at the U7 age, kids learn about teamwork and feeling great when a teammate enjoys success. And they get to have fun, both on and off the ice. The cherished memories aren't just about the games. They remember going for food with hockey pals after the game and joking around with them in the dressing room. As they get older, they have the memory of road trips and travelling with friends. Our annual Salute to Minor Hockey can be found in this week's edition of the Mercury. Take a look at the photos in the paper and on our website at SaskToday.ca. You'll see all sorts of smiling faces from the kids. They're happy to be on the ice and on a team, and to play a game they love. Of course, we get to celebrate those who have gone on to enjoy success at the highest levels. As a community, we were so proud when Brayden Pachal won the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights last year, and thrilled when he brought the greatest trophy in sports home to Estevan a few weeks later. And communities are so proud whenever anyone makes it to the show. But minor hockey can't be just about players making it to the NHL, the new Professional Women's Hockey League or playing in another pro league. Only a select few get to play at those
highest levels. It's great when they do make it to higher levels, but in the end, the most important parts are the fun, the skills development and the positive memories. It's also important to celebrate the volunteers whenever possible. The last couple of years have not been kind to hockey. The scandal involving Team Canada's 2018 World Junior Hockey Championship team has justifiably left a sour taste in the mouths of a lot of people. Now we've found out that five members of that team have been charged with sexual assault. You hope that they're held criminally responsible for any wrongdoing. We hear the talk about hockey's "toxic culture", thanks to the conduct of some players at the higher levels of the game. But are you going to find that toxic culture at the youngest levels of the sport? No. You're going to find a bunch of kids out there having fun, learning the sport and making new friends. And they're learning things that will help them for the rest of their lives. We should be celebrating hockey, the majority of the people who play the game and the volunteers and officials who make it all possible. Are there issues to be resolved? Absolutely. But there's still far more that's good than bad in our national winter sport.
A split inside hurts when it comes to outer challenges 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.
When I was growing up there was a cute cartoon about two little boys. One of them was Ohh (an interjection indicating disapproval, regret and a negative view), and the other one was Aww (an interjection indicating a positive surprise, excitement and admiration). Those two lived their young lives full of adventures, and all of their reactions were polar no matter the circumstances. Aww was a joker and a jolly boy, and Ohh was a grumbler. Where Aww saw beauty, Ohh could not get his eyes off spider webs. What Aww saw as opportunities, Ohh saw as challenges. And even though Aww tried helping to make it better for his neighbour, Ohh remained miserable in everything he was doing. The cartoon was an exaggeration by design, like most educational entertainment products for young kids, just to make sure they get the message. But what was an exaggeration in 1975, became a reality in the 2020s in the sense of polarization of people's views. We've been watching the U.S. splitting somewhere close to the middle over the past few years. Their split wasn't comical by any means, but rather dangerous and fuelled by anger. Similar tendencies were developing in other parts of the world, but often to a lower extent. The issues over which societies split are different, but I think at the bottom of that split is the opposite nature of views. What some people consider the growth potential, others see as outdated relics, and their approach to the future just takes them further and further apart. I was watching the world getting more and more furious, but for a bit, I felt "safe", allowing myself to believe that the problems were "over there", and we would never see something similar here.
Ana Bykhovskaia Twenty Lines About… I was wrong. Estevan is no different than any other community facing challenges, which break people apart and push them towards poles on many issues. We've been through a lot. As humans, inside, we prefer to avoid changes and even more so instability. The pandemic kept us steadily on our toes for two years. Conflicts flaring up here and there add to the sense of uncertainty. Discussions around climate change and major transformations further shake and split the communities. Economic challenges accompanying any kind of changes stress us out even more, since unlike conflicts "somewhere there", they end up directly affecting every household. Estevan stood strong for a while, but I think we've become more split lately as well. We made it through the pandemic and after. Of course, people always view things differently. It's natural to disagree, but Estevan used to stay united in its disagreements. There wasn't as much fingerpointing within the community, and while often not agreeing on some things, people here seemed to work as one body, fighting their way through outer obstacles and challenges. The latest discussions of the downtown revitalization, based on a video trying to "catch" the local government on something they didn't do, became a good example of that change. And that situation also reminded me of the cartoon characters described above. While the original video sparked some "Aww" reactions, with
people looking forward to seeing the community blooming, the edited version of it resulted in an "Ohh" wave, in which a lot of citizens got concerned about unnecessary spending during difficult economic transformation times. I'd say it's a great discussion, which should have taken place when the city was horning about the idea of revitalizing downtown to make it more attractive for people and businesses. It didn't happen then. The city started working towards some changes, trying to bring in federal funding (yes, federal money is still our taxes, but if we don't use it here, people somewhere in Ontario, B.C. or elsewhere will be happy to see the revitalization of their communities). We are far from seeing a new Estevan downtown with some, if any, of the suggestions from the George Harris Collaborative implemented. It may not happen at all if money doesn't come through. But if we keep going with the "Aww" and "Ohh" split, we might get stuck where we are at. Which means that we may end up being lost in the flow of the fast-changing world. You probably saw the tiny songbirds known as starlings. They flock together in thousands. Their shifting movements are called murmurations. Grouping offers safety in numbers as predators like falcons can't target one bird in amongst a hypnotizing flock of thousands. Starlings also gather to keep warm at night and exchange information about good feeding areas. We are a small community standing on the verge of big changes, which are coming from the outside. I feel that if we can work like those birds, not allowing our "Aww" and "Ohh" reactions to divide us, we'll make it out of these challenging times more prosperous. But if not...
BUSINESS A5
Melanie Tribiger Hearing Aid Practitioner Clinic Owner
3
| Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
1320 3rd Street, Estevan, SK
(306) 636- 3277
SCH@SunCountryHearing.com
About 70 per cent of my current buyers are from Ontario and B.C. – Estevan real estate manager By Ana Bykhovskaia Despite the traditional slowdown in winter, the Estevan real estate market still sees sales. Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate agent Amanda Mack says it's still a buyers' market in some segments, but it is now more balanced than a few years ago, and there are a lot of people outside the community waiting for their new homes to come up on the Estevan market. "I'd say probably 70 per cent of buyers that I have right now waiting for inventory are from Ontario or British Columbia," she said. "We're still seeing fairly low prices right now. But it's a strange market; it depends on what price range you're in. Inventory is quite crowded with homes under $200,000, but some of the higher-end homes, $300,000-plus ones, there's nearly nothing on the market, so sellers seem to be getting more of what they're asking. But then under the $200,000, that's definitely a buyer's market still." Houses under or at the $100,000 mark mainly sell as
investments for rental properties since the rental market is still quite good in Estevan, Mack said. She noted that the market seems to have started balancing out after the last boom-bust cycle. "We did see a massive pendulum swing in prices, obviously, when the oilfield slowed down and then COVID hit and things went crazy with prices; they were so, so low," Mack said. "We have gained a little bit of that back price-wise. But I don't think that it will ever get as out of reach as it was during the boom. "I like that we're seeing that it's starting to balance itself out. There are cons and pros to both ways, but when you have a more balanced market, price-wise, and more people are actually able to get themselves into a home, I think that that's a massive plus over getting a crazy, crazy amount for your home, because it does price a lot of people out of the market." With 68 residential properties up for sale in Estevan as of Feb. 1, and only 41 of them
Coldwell Banker Choice Real Estate agent Amanda Mack says even though it's slower in winter, there are still sales and quite a few options offered in Estevan and surrounding communities. being single-detached homes, the inventory was generally quite low. Mack noted that out of the 41, seven were over $300,000 and just three were in the $400-plus category, so for a lot of buyers there were not too many options at the moment. Real estate firms are expecting a lot more people to list during what's known as a spring rush. "Already I'm starting to get calls from people, just
giving a heads up that they're thinking about listing in the spring and asking for advice on what they need to do to get ready to do that. Most people list in mid-March to mid-April. A lot of people list April 1," Mack said, sharing experience from previous years. While interest rates are higher than they were not that long ago, they are still below average, Mack noted, but buyers are shopping around more.
"Most people typically would stay with their home bank, but now we're seeing a lot of people reach out, shop around multiple different banks, different mortgage brokers and take their time in finding the best deal for themselves. And I think that that's certainly important," Mack said. "The first little while when interest rates started to go up, they hindered buyers from looking and actually making a purchase. But now, I think the people that are going to buy are going to buy anyway. It is kind of our new normal, and interest rates are probably going to stick around this point for a little while. "But real estate market prices are dictated by what's going on all over; it depends on the economy and how much confidence people have. And it constantly changes. So, it's very hard to predict what's going to happen." She noted that the stabilization of the market positively affected sales outside Estevan. During and right after the pandemic, there was a long period
when nothing would happen with properties in smaller satellite communities. "I think a big part of that was because in the city, prices adjusted to so low that people were able to stay in the city, whereas before a lot of times they would reach out to the smaller areas to get more bang for their buck. But now that inventory is a little lower in Estevan and prices have recovered a little bit, we are seeing some action in the smaller towns. I have listings in Lampman Torquay, Midale, Macoun, Bienfait, and all of those places have seen showings in recent weeks," Mack said. "That's something that there hasn't been much of the last couple of years. It's been a tough road for the sellers in the rural areas, but there's a lot of benefits in going to these communities." She noted that rural communities are family-friendly and community-oriented, offering buyers more for their money in comparison to Estevan and typically larger lot sizes, but they still have value to them.
Drewitz students tested in Highland dancing Students from the Drewitz School of Dance, under the direction of Lorie-Gay Drewitz-Gallaway and assistant teacher Emma Such, recently participated in the Scottish Dance Teachers' Alliance's Highland exams. The examiner was Gaelynn McGregor from Winnipeg, who participated via Zoom. Students were examined in dance star, as well as medal, national and jig. Recently-received results were: Highland medals and awards: Dance Star 1: Successful pass – Rylee Gallaway, Eve Beatty, Madelyn Grobbink, Mackenzie Mann, Ainsley LukyeDurr and Jillianne Velasquez. Dance Star 2: Successful pass – Quinn Zahn, Taylor
Curtis, Addison Melle and Harper Eskra. Dance Star 3: Successful pass – Anna Beatty, Emma Grobbink, Lilee Van Sickle, Emma Salkeld and Desiree Krahn. Dance Star 4: Successful pass – Grace Hall, Mollie Kingdon, Alice Mowchenko, Kayleigh Reed, Delaney Tamblyn, Keira Kessler, Paris Irwin and Coco Mercer. Dance Star 5: Successful pass – Tyler Zabel, Elizabeth Harmsworth, Ava Mann, Taylor Ellis and Chloe Marsh. Pre-Bronze Highland Fling: Commended plus – Emma Grobbink,Taylor Curtis and Addison Melle. Pre-Bronze Sword: Highly commended – Quinn Zahn, Harper Eskra and Lilee Van Sickle; commended plus –
Desiree Krahn and Delaney Tamblyn; commended – Anna Beatty. Bronze Medal: Highly commended – Coco Mercer, Emma Salkeld and Alice Mowchenko; commended plus – Kayleigh Reed, Grace Hall, Keira Kessler, Chloe Marsh and Tyler Zabel; commended – Mollie Kingdon and Paris Irwin. Silver medal: Highly commended – Elizabeth Harmsworth; commended plus – Sophia Deitz, Taylor Ellis, Ava Mann and Aspen Mayuk; commended – Kennady Poole. Gold medal: Commended plus – Payton Sernick and Tegan Mosley. Scottish Award 1: Commended plus – Sophia Fleck, Aurora McCutcheon, Cana Marsh; commended – Si-
enna Kuntz. Scottish Award 2 Medal: Commended plus – Kerison Burnett. Scottish Award 3 Medal: Commended plus – Marley Nashiem. Scottish National medals and awards Pre-Bronze National: Commended plus – Aspen Mayuk. Silver National: Commended plus – Ava Mann,Taylor Ellis and Elizabeth Harmsworth; commended - Kennady Poole and Sophia Deitz. Scottish Award 1 National: Commended plus – Sophia Fleck, Cana Marsh and Payton Sernick; commended – Sienna Kuntz, Aurora McCutcheon and Tegan Mosley. Scottish Award 2 National: Commended – Kerison Burnett
Rylee Gallaway, Mackenzie Mann and Madelyn Grobbink participated in their first exam. Photo courtesy of Lorie-Gay Drewitz-Gallaway and Marley Nashiem. Irish jig medals and awards Silver jig: Commended plus – Tegan Mosley. Gold Jig: Highly commended – Sophia Fleck, Payton Sernick and Aurora McCutch-
eon; commended plus – Tegan Mosley; commended – Sienna Kuntz and Cana Marsh. Scottish Award 2 jig: Commended – Kerison Burnett. Scottish Award 3 Jig: Commended plus – Marley 24022GE0 Nashiem.
ENERGY
114 Perkins St, Estevan, SK Phone: (306) 634-3641
| Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
A6
SaskPower and Hitachi sign SMR agreement Representatives from SaskPower and GE Vernova’s nuclear business, GE Hitachi (GEH), met in Regina on Jan. 30 to sign an agreement to advance small modular reactor (SMR) development in Saskatchewan. According to a news release, the agreement will enable SaskPower and GEH to collaborate on project planning and facilitate the sharing of expertise related to the design, fuel sourcing and fabrication for the BWRX300 small modular reactor. It will also suppor t workforce and supply chain planning needed for Saskatchewan-based SMR deployment. “Gaining detailed technical specifications, requirements and designs to the BWRX-300 is necessar y for our planning work and license applications,” said SaskPower president and CEO Rupen Pandya. “Leveraging experience and ex-
pertise from our colleagues in the nuclear industry is an important part of our planning work.” In June 2022, SaskPower selected the GE Hitachi BWRX-300 as the technology to be used in its SMR development work. The BWRX-300 was also selected by Ontario Power Generation for its Darlington New Nuclear Project and is a boiling water reactor that produces about 300 MW from one single unit. This SMR is based on similar large-scale nuclear power plants that have been in operation globally for decades. “This agreement is another important step in our efforts to support Saskatchewan’s workers, businesses and clean energ y goals,” said Lisa McBride, GEH Canada country leader. “The BW R X - 3 0 0 re i m a g i n e s what is possible when it comes to generating reliable,
carbon-free energy.” GE Vernova’s nuclear business, through its global alliance with Hitachi, is a world-leading provider
of nuc lear fuel bund les, services and advanced nuclear reactor designs. This agreement will streamline SaskPower’s planning and
licensing work to inform its decision in 2029 whether to proceed with nuclear power in Saskatchewan. A decision on the pro-
posed site of Saskatchewan's first SMR is expected later this year. The Estevan area and the Elbow region are the two candidates.
Four EPS officers receive Van De Vorst Family Award
Leader of the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Connie Hagel, left, recognized Constables Paul Chabot, Michelle Beaulieu, Katelynn Ruthven and Danielle Stephany with the Van De Vorst Family Awards. Photo courtesy of EPS
thrutubing.com | 306.634.4001
Drilling Licenses
Four Estevan Police Service members were recognized for their contributions in battling impaired driving last year. Constables Paul Chabot, Michelle Beaulieu, Katelynn Ruthven and Danielle Stephany recently received silver Van De Vorst Family Awards. The leader of the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Connie Hagel handed the four officers the coins, which are presented to law enforcement members who have detected and apprehended eight or more impaired drivers
5 new licenses issued to Monday, February 5, 2024 315792
Woodland Development H.............. z6-22-6-4
316507
Anova Resources Hz........................ 13-31-4-2
316698
Burgess Creek Exploration Hz .......... 12-7-5-6
316792
Whitecap Resources Hz .................. 16-13-6-6
316964
Prairie Lithium Corp Vert 1-..............15-2-12
Rig Report 04L037
Stampede Drilling.....Harvard Resources........4-8-6-15
13J170
Stampede Drilling....Harvard Resources.......12-8-6-15
309006
Panther Drilling.....Vermilion Energy...........16-23-4-18
310130
Stampede Drilling....Harvard Resources.....14-26-5-16
in a calendar year. Hagel said that the number of awards handed out in the community depends on how many impaired drivers are convicted that year. So far, four recipients is the highest Estevan has ever had. The awards recognize police officers in Saskatchewan who have charged between eight and 16 impaired drivers (silver coin), 17 to 39 impaired drivers (gold coin) or 40 or more impaired drivers (platinum coin). Ruthven had 11 impaired driving convictions, Chabot had eight, and Beaulieu
and Stephany each had nine. "It's not going away. If I'm presenting that many awards, that means there's a lot of impaired drivers still on the roads," Hagel said. She noted officers were proud to receive the awards. "They're doing their work. They're proud to get those impaired drivers off the road," she said. "And I'm just proud that I can hand out the awards. They're doing the hard work. I appreciate the hard work, so keep up the good work."
CRANES & TRUCKING • All types of hoisting-tip heights to 350’ • 15 – 245 Ton Mobile & R.T. Cranes • 27 – 45 Ton Pickers • 15 Ton Carrydeck - 3.2 Ton Mini Crawler Serving Southeast • Tractor Trailer Units Saskatchewan for 41 years • Pile Drivers, Telehandler • Office Trailer Rentals • Manbaskets & Concrete Buckets
Part - Time Safety Administrator Full - Time Journey Person Electricians and Apprentices Full - Time Journey Person Instrumentation Techs and Apprentices Apply in Person to Scott Schoff at Power Tech Industries Ltd or by email at sschoff.pti@sasktel.net
1.00E_+224 Red Hawk Well........Pemoco Ltd ...............2-16-9-33 310698 Precision Drilling......Crescent Point Place ....12-8-10-8
Power Tech Industries p.o Box 1100 62 Devonian Street Estevan, SK S4A 2H7 (bus) 306-637-2180 (cell) 306-461-8060 (fax) 306-637-2180 www.powertech0undustries.com
311685 Stampede Drilling.........Tundra Oil & Gas ........1-14-1-7 12G219 Stampede Drilling......Tundra Oil & Gas ........1-21-3-16 312116 Betts Drilling............Burgess Creek ..............14-35-4-8
Frontier Place, Estevan
307631 Betts Drilling............Anova Resources.............11-3-4-1
www.skyliftservices.com
Re/Max Blue Chip Realty is pleased to announce that Cindy Dalziel has joined our brokerage. Cindy has a diverse educational background with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, experience as an Education Assistant and knowledge in Finance Administration. This unique combination of skills will bring a fresh perspective to the real estate industry. Cindy also has an impressive 20 years of experience in rental management. With her extensive knowledge and expertise in this area, she can provide valuable insight and guidance to clients looking to invest in rental properties. She truly understands the ins and outs of the rental and residential market. Cindy is not only dedicated to her profession but also values family. She is a wife and proud mother to two wonderful children, making her work even more meaningful as she understands the importance of finding the perfect home for families like theirs. In her off time, Cindy enjoys camping, boating, and cherishing precious memories with her loved ones. Cindy's family enjoys all the amenities that rural living in Estevan has to offer and can't wait to help your family find the perfect house to call home.
Cindy Dalziel
306-421-4358
cindyjdalziel@gmail.com
306-634-5555
Midale
• Souris Valley Pipeline Limited operates a High Pressure Carbon Dioxide Pipeline in Southeast Saskatchewan, a component of the gas is Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S). • As a member of Sask 1st Call, Souris Valley Pipeline would like to remind you to call Sask 1st Call at 1-866-828-4888. • Statistics show that a significant cause of pipeline ruptures is due to third party damage. For pipeline safety concerns or emergencies call toll free 1-866-PIPELINE (1-866-747-3546) Before excavating call Sask 1st Call at 1-866-828-4888 for a free locate. www.sask1stcall.com
SOURIS VALLEY PIPELINE LTD. 24 HOUR PHONE SERVICE 1-866-747-3546
SOURIS VALLEY PIPELINE LIMITED 617 Government Road S Weyburn, SK S4H 2B3 Phone: 306-848-0206 Fax: 306-848-0293
www.SASKTODAY.ca
February 7, 2024 A7
Saluting all
Minor Hockey Teams MEIGAN WILHELM REALTOR ®
306-421-3982 meigan@cbchoice.ca coldwellbankerchoice.ca 1210 4th Street, Estevan
I'd love to help you SCORE a new home this season!
U5 U5 Cubs
2023-2024
Coaches L to R: Chris DeGuerre, James Jones, Rebecca Holman, Stephen Truman, Nick Neurauter, Mitch Grimes, Paul Chabot, Kaden Antoniuk, Greg LaRose, Brandon Frank, Kellan George, Jeff Leclair, Chase Mckersie, Levi Barstable Back row standing: Margot Erdie, Chester Truman, Harper Schlamp, Bowen Neurauter, Ace Michael, Jack Grimes, Marcus Assoumbang, Bauer Antoniuk, Cruz Wheeler-Step, Jackie LaRose, Liv Lesy, Jett Almond, Jude Leclair, Hudson Rezansoff Middle row: Weston Hengen, Noah Erdman, Jack Stepp, Jake Senchuk, Samuel Jones, Jean-Paul Chabot, Hayes George, Hana Walliser, Brexlyn Merkley Front row: Eli Smoliak, Jett DeGuerre, Liam Needham, Emmett Vatamaniuk, Benjamin Stepp, Weston Frank, Gavin Larter, River Kendall, Owen Schrader, Kane Mckersie, Shaw Barnstable Missing: Elijah Klotz, Koen Klotz, Nash Blackburn, Weston Mantei
U7
Bienfait U7 Miners
2023-2024
(Front) Buck Horton, Paul Blakeney, Carter Scovoranski, Wyatt Klein, Lucas Latoski, Zane Muhr, Hayes Pelletier, Carson Choma, Walker Fornwald, (Back) Coach Tyler Fornwald, Paisley Boyer, Maverick Maley, Connor Choma, Coach Chelsea Choma. Absent: Coaches Derek Choma, Brandon Muhr & Jeff Maley
Proud supporter of MINOR HOCKEY
79 Perkins St., Estevan 306-637-2727
1305 Railway Ave., Weyburn 306-842-4185
U7 Cubs Team 1
2023-2024
Back row (Coaches l to r): Mitch Meyer, Elijah Klotz, Alden Hagel Middle row (l to r): Sawyer Klotz, Kendrick Assoumbang, Bodhi Lesy Front row (l to r): Mila Stepp, Kashton Kickley, Jaxton Meyer, Thoren Hagel, Tyson Bonokoski, Charlie Verma, Mason Griffen Missing: Dallas Kickley (Coach)
Proud to support minor hockey!
601-5th Street, Estevan • 306-634-7101
The Estevan Mercury would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of our Minor Hockey Players, Coaches, Managers, Officials, Volunteers and Families! Thank you for all you do!
A8 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
PROUD TO SUPPORT MINOR HOCKEY
Acknowledging the commitment of volunteers, players and families to Minor Hockey. BILLESBERGER LAW FIRM
130 Perkins St. Estevan, SK S4A 2K1 306-634-8388
1017 Third Street • (306) 637-3710
U7
U7 Cubs Team 2
2023-2024
Front Row L to R: Assistant coach Garrett Lasko, Assistant coach Jared Garnier, Head Coach Kevin Wolensky, Assistant coach Blake Jamieson Middle Row L to R: Hunter House, Kersey Wilson, Messer Wolensky Front Row L to R: Dawson Garrioch, Ariella Lasko, Will Garnier, Tyley Wilson, Hannah Jamieson, Cru Curtis, Jett Curtis
U7 Cubs Team 4
2023-2024
Back Row: Evan Erdman, Beth Bauer, Brandon Frank, missing (Greg La Rose) Front Row: Griffey La Rose, Emerson Erdman, Reinhardt Bauer, David Dobrianskyi, Rylan Collomb, Reagan Hein, Bryce Lalonde, Rylan Frank, Oaklen Michael
U7 Cubs Team 6
2023-2024
Coaches: Garrett Fleck, Joel Moriarty Players: Nash Moriarty, Madden Mathies, Fletcher Murray, Liam Fleck, Parker Almond, Emerson Hunt, Huxton Hirsch, Morrison Reid, Wells Dzuba Missing: Aaron Ludwig (coach), Evan Murray (coach), Hunter Ludwig
PROUD TO SUPPORT ESTEVAN MINOR HOCKEY
Season’s Greetings
crescentpointenergy.com
CONGRATULATIONS
ON A With gratitude in our hearts, we wish SEASON GREAT you and yours a blessed season! BBERT ERT BBAXTER AXTER TRANSPORT TRANSPORT LTD. LTDD.. 301 Kensington Ave., Estevan, SK
301 Kensington Ave., Estevan, SK 306-634-3616 www.bbaxtertransport.ca
U7 Cubs Team 3
2023-2024
Back row left to right – Coach Trevor Erdie, Coach Chris Hammett, Coach Nicholas Neurauter Middle row left to right – Xander Erdie, Emrie Hammett, Kellen Melle Front row left to right – Dawsyn Raynard, Klay Melle, Liam Jones, Kolt Gillies, Emric Neurauter, Ryatt Brown, Leo Wojcik
U7 Cubs Team 5
2023-2024
Coaches Left to Right: Carter Walliser, Spencer Pennington, Payden Benning Players Left to Right: Noah Salkeld, Huck Walliser, Alexander Charlton, Drey Benning, Jaxon Cederwall, Tyce Emmel, Barrett Pennington, Oliver Gate, Fox Kendall Missing: Coach Andrew Tait
U7 Cubs Team 7
2023-2024
Back Row (Coaches l to r): Matt Bakke, Tye Doan Front row (l to r): Jax MacDonald, Zander Thomas, Kendall Bakke, Jack Cassidy, Ryker Wilhelm, Wyatt Vatamaniuck, Huxton Doan, Nash Biggs, Shawntai Maser Inset: Cash Goudy
Congratulations
to all Minor Hockey teams on a great season!
Thank you to coaches, volunteers and families for making it happen!
1-866-249-4697 www.drrobertkitchen.ca
Dr. Robert Kitchen MP Souris-Moose Mountain
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL MINOR HOCKEY TEAMS ON A FUN SEASON!
Carstar Estevan 445, 4th Street | (306) 634-2815
www.SASKTODAY.ca
February 7, 2024 A9
Congratulations
Congrats
to all Minor Hockey teams for a great season!
Dr. David Peeace Dr. Trevor Erdie Dr. Rebecca Holman
to all the players!
Congratulations ON A GREAT SEASON! Lori Carr, MLA
#2 - 421 King Street Estevan, SK S4A 1K6
306-634-2918
Estevan Constituency Office 306.634.7311 loricarrmla@sasktel.net
U9
Bienfait U9 Miners
2023-2024
Gilliss Casing U9 Cubs
(Front) Matthew Klein, Boeh Muhr, Max Penna, William Ciepliski (Middle) Brooklyn Boyer, Landon Sykes, Nate Horton, Rhett Tokarchuk (Back) Coaches Scott Sykes & Blake Penna Absent: Coach Brandon Muhr
Kingston Midstream U9 Cubs
Back row L to R: Stephen Truman, Jevon Desautels, Dominic Cote Middle: Sullivan Truman, Addison Cote, Sawyer Desautels, Claire Assoumbang, Donnie Emmel, Theodore Truman Front: Miya Cederwall, Cooper Himmelspach, Dominic Sliva, Jeydenn Westman, Kase Luc
2023-2024
Living Sky Diesel U9 Cubs
Back Row (left to right): Coach Jesse Reed, Coach Devin Aspinall, Coach Jesse Rosengren Middle Row (left to right): Phalyn McIntyre, Cameron Thomas, Kalen Aspinall, Alex Reed, Maddox Griffin, Bryden Rosengren Front Row (left to right): Carter Wheeler, Archer Mack, Violet Garrioch, Calum Neurauter, Rhys Deatherage
Murray GM U9 Cubs
2023-2024
Back row left to right: coaches Nick Bourassa, Ryan Harris, Alden Hagel Second row left to right: Talon Bourassa, Kasey Harris, Daniel Dobrianskyi, Haylee Poelen, Declan Grimes, Vallyn Hagel Front row left to right: Christian Mayer, Max Meili, Conrad Horrocks, Daylen Gagnon, Madelynn Wock
2023-2024
2023-2024
Back row (l to r): Beth Bauer, Kaila Jutras, Aaron Ludwig Middle row (l to r): Lucas Gate, Hudson Gonas, Grayson Merritt Front Row (l to r): Hudson Ludwig, Audree Jutras, Maximillian Bauer, Rowan Pinel, Laikynn Shier, Ryley Istace, Declan Irvine Missing: Camden Lakusta
Sunset Embroidery U9 Cubs
2023-2024
Back row (l to r): Coach Dustin Ng, Coach Greg La Rose, Coach Matt Bakke Middle row (l to r): Kipton Caissie, Thane Abbott, Slade Lesy, Melky La Rose, Jaxon House Front row (l to r): Aspen Kickley, Tenley Mack, Harper Bakke, Paige Wilhelm, Banks Ng, Jackson Faris
Trophies | Medals 1st Goal Pucks | Coach Gifts
Monday - Thursday 9am - 12am Friday - Saturday 9am -2am Sunday 10am-8pm
Lorne Tytlandsvik 306-421-5843
Monday - Thursday 9am - Midnight Friday & Saturday 9am - 2am Sunday 10am - 9pm
1309 4th Street, Estevan (306)634-6005 Find us on Facebook!
Saluting all the Minor Hockey Teams Player, Parents Joel Verville and Volunteers 306-891-8966
A10 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
CONGRATULATIONS to all Minor Hockey Teams on a great season!
We offer direct billing
306 634-4755
140-1175 Nicholson Road Estevan, SK • www.estevaneyeclinic.ca
I HAD A BLAST COACHING THE U11AA BRUINS AND U7 CUBS 3 AND CONGRATS TO ALL MINOR HOCKEY TEAMS. Cell: 306-461-5425 Office: 306-634-0808
IG Wealth Management
Chris Hammett
U9
Top Torque U9 Cubs
2023-2024
Back row (l to r): Head Coach Jordon Blanchette, Assistant Coach Curtis Westling, Assistant Coach Kraig Maley Middle row (l to r): Liam Maley, Aria Marchuk, Kaysen Mehler, Rogan Westling Front row (l to r): Matvii Maidanskyi, Rory Sands, Keomi Mazo, Harrison Eskra, Bauer Blanchette, Braylon Gagnon, Zayne Mehler
Whitecap Resources U9 Cubs 2023-2024 Back row L to R: Assistant Coach Jared Garnier, Head Coach Garrett Lasko, Assistant Coach Kevin Wolensky Middle row L to R: Adalyn Lasko, Rider Garrow, Levi Ellis, Bryson Paulhus, Michael Lalonde Front row L to R: Kaleb Swayze, Faye Garnier, Everett Mittelholtz, Agamvir Gujjar, Nate Hale, Maddyn Wolensky.
U11
Bienfait U11 Miners
2023-2024
(Front) Jack Horton, Stetsyn Bomberak, Vinton Penna, Carter Austin, Dylan Sykes, Colton Juneau (Middle) Josiah Nixon, Cody Maley, Skylar Booker, Reid Graf Absent~Landen Taylor (Back) Coaches Blake Penna, Logan Bomberak, Jesse Juneau, Scott Sykes & Jesse Berriault
U11 Tier 2 Carded Bruins
Ironside Energy U11 AA Bruins
U11 Bearcats 1
2023-2024
Back Row (l to r): Assistant Coach Ryan Siever, Head Coach Brian Molstad, Assistant Coach Evan Murray, Team Manager Brian Petersen Middle Row (l to r): Preston Siever, Connor Johnston, Josiah Nixon, Jackson Enns, Hudson Wagner, Raegan Johnston, Nevin Hunt Front Row (l to r): Jace Petersen, Lincoln Molstad, Lincoln Meyers, Solomon Murray, Jaxon Goudy, Zander Tetzlaff, Jude Shackleton
Congratulations on your season!
2023-2024
Back Row (l to r): Assistant Coach Chris Hammett, Head Coach Jevon Desautels, Assistant Coach Nathan Johnson, Goalie Coach John Jenish Middle Row (l to r): Parker Larsen-Stepp, Zyla Hammett, Dexx Tendler, Huxton Mosley, Paisley McIntyre, Jacobi Hlavka, Jase Garagan, Abigail Jutras Front Row (l to r): Madden Kingdon, Kilter Snell, Payton Molstad, Caelem Desautels, Dane Johnson, Jordan Hewitt, J.J. Nagy
2023-2024
Back Row: Kaylyn Wolensky (asst. Coach), Chris Farnden (head coach), Parker Cameron (asst. coach), Meigan Wilhelm (asst. coach) Middle Row: Cami Farnden, Abigail Jutras, Mecca Brock, Jorja Roberts, Taylor Wilhelm, Zyla Hammett Front Row: Brae Wolensky, Aria House, Tayja Pehl (goalie), Cali Cameron, Kylie Henry, Peyton Saunders
Congratulations on your season!
88 Devonian Street • Estevan, SK Ph: 634-4041 (24 hr) • Fax: 634-4040 www.samstrucking.ca
Carnduff, Sk. • (306) 482-3244
Congratulations
on a great season
Congratulations to all Minor Hockey Players, Coaches and Parents on Another Great Season!
Service Since 1956
306-634-7341
202 Souris Avenue North Estevan • 306-634-3002
www.SASKTODAY.ca
February 7, 2024 A11
Congratulations
Proudly supporting Minor Hockey!
Congratulationson ona great a great year! year!
#2 Malmgren Dr. Estevan, SK
Shop: 634-9190
1123 4th St, Estevan • 306.634.7331
U11
U11 Bearcats 2
U11 Hurricanes
2023-2024
Back row (l to r) Coaches: Dustin Ng, Scott Walton, Melody Ng Middle row (l to r): Mya Mack, Charlie Pyra, Paisley McIntyre, Avi Mack, Olivia Walton Front row (l to r): Cooper Tokarchuk, Nevaeh Fedyk, Ella Biette, Harris Ng, Hailey Threinen Inset: Harlow Ludwig Missing: Aaron Ludwig (coach)
Front Row – Easton Hale, Elijah Vanstone, Luke Currie, Rhett Lozinsky, Paxton Shurygalo, Jake Biggs Back Row – Zander Tetzlaff, Nevin Hunt, Cyrus Schell, Emmett Clearwater, Roenick Pratt, Preston Siever Coaches – Bob Currie, Kory Clearwater
U11 Thunder U11 Kings
2023-2024
Back Row L to R: Chad Jesse (Coach), Nixon Jesse, Bryce DeBruyne, Jackson Enns, Hudson Mann, Syles Ginther, Ian Massett, Tricia DeBruyne (Coach) Front Row L to R: Payton Mathieson, Hayden Schaff, Dylan Kennedy, Colby Hanson, Bryalon Christensen, Lincoln Meyers, Kooper Casemore Inset: Jaxon Goudy
2023-2024
2023-2024
Front Row (left to right): Jace Petersen, Dylan Symons, Isaac Brandow, Mikah Bizer Secord, Kaden Short, Archer Mclellan, Daniel Sinclair Middle – Solomon Murray, Reagan Johnston, Avery Lischka, Lennix Laich, Mavrik Espelien, Emeris Orlowski Back – Asst Coach Evan Murray, Coach Scott Lischka Inset: Lincoln Molstad Missing: Asst. Coach Brian Molstad
U13
Primec Controls Canada U13 AA Bruins
2023-2024
Back: Holt Crossman, Eli Hildebrandt, Ethan Phillips, Cooper Hale, Lucas Singleton, Penn Tytlandsvick Middle: Asst Coach Kristjan Hebert, Bentley Hebert, Lucas Desautels, Tayson Tangjerd, Griffin Eaton, Jaxon Molstad, Asst Coach Dustin Tangjerd Front: Head Coach Brant Kersey, Joseph Hozjan, Owen Light, Kolbie McColl, Jett Kersey, Knox Valentine, Cruz Carter, Asst Coach Nick Sereggela
U13 Steel Reef Bearcats 2
2023-2024
Back Row: Assistant Coach Devin Tessier, Head Coach Cort Barker, Mia Barker, Everleigh Blanchette, Allie Lainton, Gabrielle Deitz, Rylynn Tessier, Renesmee Thompson, Assistant Coach Hannah Battersby, Assistant Coach Jesse Rosengren Front Row: Hunter Istace, Aspen Snider, Hailey Sinclair, Madelyn Stead, Jovi Pratt, Hunter Sands, Brynley Rosengren
U13 Bearcats 1
2023-2024
Front R (L to R) – Charlie Walsh, Trista Mackenzie, Paycen Babiarz, Paityn Puryk, Kyle Millions, Anna Biggs, Rowan Grimes Back R (L to R) – Olivia Hockey, Taigan Duke, Julie Berg, Ava Wheeler, Addison Granberg, Hadlee Terrett, Isla Roberts Coaches (L to R) – Dustin Hockey, Matt Wheeler, Jesse Barbiarz, Dana Duke
U13 Panthers
2023-2024
Back (l to r): Coach Tommy Holden, Bentley Wilson, Tucker Hilstrom, Damon Hunt, Ryder Mantei, Gabe Holland, Coach Mark Kosier Front row (l to r): Parker Kosior, Liam Durr, Braylon Henry, Jack Holden, Jaxon Duke, Jerome Kim, Finley Clark Missing: Reid Miller, Coach Brad Durr, Manager Amber Hilstrom
A12 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
Proud to Support
MINOR HOCKEY!
Box 879 Highway 39 NW Estevan,SK S4A 2A7 Ph: 306-634-8008 | Fax: 306-634-8007 shawn.southland@sasktel.net
Acknowledging the commitment of the coaches, team volunteers, officials and families to the sport of hockey.
U13
U13 Royals
2023-2024
Front Row: Andrew Daae, Robert Rendall, Kolby Fichter, Taylor Lisafeld, Carson Jones, Quinton Stobbs, Cale Farr Back Row: Mark Mason (Coach), Kane Massier, Tristan Bieber, Maxwell Froese, Stephan Froese (Coach), Andin Barlow, Linden Mason, Nicholas Penney, Darren Bieber (Coach)
U13
U13 Storm
2023-2024
Front R (L to R) – Kase Salkeld, Aiden Ruf, Ethin Lalonde, Ty Blackburn, Gunner Raynard, Nate Melle, Bryton Stovin Back Row (L to R) – Jake Hockey, Jackson Kennedy, Ryder Stepp, Ryder Grimes, Colbey Gress Coaches (L to R) – Dustin Hockey, Andrew Tait, Dylan Lafrantz, Wade Grimes (Missing)
U15
U15 AA Bruins TS&M U13 Wolves
2023-2024
Backrow: Dominic Cote (Coach), Kolter Armstrong, Max Ogdanskiy, Kersey Willis, Tyson Stubel, Teigan Henderson, Eric Shier (Coach) Front Row: Cashton Symons, Braxton Shier, Brooks Cote, Brody Hogg, Brennan Tinant, Mason Fonstad, Kierran Wilson
2023-2024
Back Row: Kale Kuchinka, Gauge Balogh, Jayden Chernoff, Ethan Rutledge, Cort Barber, Merek Willhelm, Austin Merkley, Seth Franklin, Mason Schmidt, Broden Henry, Ryder Singleton, Cayden Snell. Front Row: Brayden Clay, Derek Tendler (Assistant/Goalie Coach), Riley Gigian, Megan Leblanc (Trainer/Assistant Coach), Tucker Laurent, Keith Cassidy (Head Coach), Boston Tait, Cole Zahn (Assistant Coach), Nathan Gardiner, Jeff Kuchinka (Trainer), Raif Henrion, Quintin Sliva.
U15
U15 Bearcats
2023-2024
Back row L to R: Wade Grimes (Coach), Bentlee Bakke, Katie Sauder, Ryleigh Snell, Taya Northrop, Kadence Grimes, Cam Northrop (Coach), Sara Goldrup (Coach) Front row L to R: Kloe Barker, Morgan Hase, Rory Tatarnic, Kayla Mitchell, Sam Chesney, Sara MacAskill, Halle Lozinsky
Cheers to all the teams, coaches, parents and volunteers
JF Custom U15 Bearcats
2023-2024
Front Row (l to r): Coach Dan Graf, Lexah Cowan, Ruby Graf, Taylor Short, Billie Cowan, Nevaeh Duke. Back Row (l to r): Assistant Coach Nathan Johnson, Jada Johnson, Lily Hlavka, Autumn Snider, Shaylee Belke, Kaybree Fonstad, Callie Heiser, Assistant Coach Dana Dukew
Proud to Support Estevan Minor Hockey
p.o. box 1100 62 Devonian Street Estevan, Sk S4A 2H7 (bus) 306-637-2180 • (cell) 306-461-8060 (fax) 306-637-2181 • sschoff.pti@sasktel.net www.powertech-industries.com
Proud to Support
ESTEVAN MINOR HOCKEY
to all teams on a great season! 306.634.5555
www.skyliftservices.com
www.SASKTODAY.ca
February 7, 2024 A13
Congratulations on your season! Proud Supporter of Estevan Minor Hockey Highway 39 East, Estevan 306-634-4775 • sholterandhorsman.ca
www.wil-tech.ca sales@wil-tech.ca
Estevan: (306) 634-6743
Regina: (306) 721-1559
Saskatoon: (306) 668-1900
U15
U15 Knights
2023-2024
Back row (l to r): Parker Zohner, Charlie Hayes, Jaxon Smith, Jayden Durr, Logan Piper, Ryden Summers, Dane Hogg, Carter Beatty, Coach Sheldon Beatty Front row (l to r): Boston Wilson, Michael Brady, Ashton Stepp, Ryland Smith, Logan Hunt, Ethan Heath, Caden Fonstad Missing: Easton Pushie, Coaches Jason Durr and Darren Pushie, Trainer Carly Heath
U15
U15 Wildcats
2023-2024
Back row (L-R): Head Coach Cort Barker, Corbin Barker, Sam Dzuba, Preston Kuntz, Leif Clark, Parker Chernoff, Erik Eagles, Liam Stubel, Henry Blue, Brooks Kuntz, Assistant Coach Jon Park Front row (L-R): Logan Kolenz, Sade Olson, Nash Hollingshead, Hayden McIntosh, Alexy Bizier-Secord, Jaxson Orsted, Keegan Park
U18
U15 Bears
2023-2024
Back row (l to r): Asst. Coach Ryan DeLeeuw, Asst. Coach Chad Jesse, Arvin Sangar, Levi Garagan, Callen MacDonald, Lennox Hodgens, Holden Martens, Cameron Milbrandt, Marcus DeLeeuw, Colten Short, Spencer Skuce, Ethan Stenhouse, Coach Clayton Stenhouse Front Row (l to r): Beckham Sernick, Cale Flamme, Hugh Ross, Brexson Jesse, Layne Daae, Kayden DeBruyne, Rylan Lievaart.
U18 Apex AA Bruins
2023-2024
Back: Anita Mathison (Treasurer), Luas Campbell, Rylan Hansen, Chase Robertson, Tristan Brownridge, Hayden Terrett, Carter Hirsch, Grayson Brock, Payton Phillips, Talys Brock, Kolton Schulhauser, Kade Phillips, Sheri Patton (Manager). Front: Jaxon Kuchinka, Keagan Patton, Sutter Baily, Ryan Curzon (Assistant Coach), Ryder Miller, Ryker Mathison, Aren Miller (Head Coach), Tayson Dietz, Tyler Fehrenbach (Asst Coach), Conrad Hase, Tayson Holt (Asst Coach), Ty Fehrenbach. Missing: Teanna Sieben (Trainer).Missing: Teanna Sieben (Trainer).
U18
U18 Bears
2023-2024
Back Row L-R Coach Kory Farden, Logan Nielsen, Ayden James McKenzie, Coben Gibson, Ryan McIssac, Kash McConnell, Tymur Maidanskyi, Dayton Fraser, Jarid Persson, Noah Magnien, Coach-Blaine Chrest, Trainer-Cory Gibson Front Row L-R Easton Gibson, Cruz Symons, Keagan Farden, Johnathan Schrader, Jake Rubiletz, Tyson Czernick, Daylen George, Shea McNabb, Indiana Froese, Kieran Farden Inset Tyler Piper
Congratulations To all Minor Hockey Players, Coaches, and Parents on Another Great Season!
U18 Wolves
2023-2024
Back Row (Left to Right): David Lozinsky (Coach), Phil Gellner, Jacob Pyra, Keith Daae, Rowan Groenveld, Cowan Ludtke, Lex Ginnis, Jacob Deitz, Kaden Hanson, Wes Hanson (Coach) Front Row (Left to Right): Leo Mitchell, Blake Andrist, Kristopher Phillips, Hudson Hirkala, Keenan Glasser, Tannyn Curtis, Pierce Lozinsky, Jaxson Schad, Memphis Wilhelm Missing: Cooper Pukas, Kashton Jesse, Mandel Michalkow, Peyton Tendler
BOOK YOUR WIND UP! Available to players, coaches, parents, siblings and friends - everyone!
Pizza $ only
10
per person
8, 421 Kensington Ave | 306.634.2647 | westernfinancialgroup.ca
Supporting all the Minor Hockey Teams, Parents and Volunteers.
Locally Owned and Operated.
Matthew & Chelsea Schell • 306-487-7349 email: info@drivenlubricants.ca
1.5 hours of bowling shoe rental pizza buffet • pop
$
20
per person
Book your party today!
104 Souris Ave. • 634-2356
Proudly Supporting Minor Hockey For all your Aggregate, Heavy Equipment, Landscaping and Irrigation needs!
306-634-3900
A14 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
Estevan Wildlife Federations hands out many trophies at annual awards night The Estevan Wildlife Federation saluted hunters, anglers and photographers for their success during the past year during the annual awards banquet Saturday night at the Estevan Exhibition Hall. Trophies were handed out to the first-place finishers in each category, while those who finished second and third received certificates. In the birds' division, Kade Skuce was first in sharptail grouse at two pounds, four ounces, and for Canada goose (13 pounds, six ounces). Murray Mosley took top spot in ruffed grouse (one pound, 5.4 ounces); snow goose (five pounds, 12 ounces); and white-fronted goose (six pounds, 10 ounces). Dave Clark had the top mallard duck (three pounds, one ounce), and Brent Olfert was first for pheasant with a total of 66 3/8, thanks to a score of 41 bars and 25 3/8 inches tail length. Mosely swept the fish categories, finishing first for largest perch (one pound, six ounces), largemouth bass (four pounds, 10 ounces) and walleye (six pounds, nine ounces). Most of the awards were for big game. In the archery division, Garry Leslie had the top-scoring typical whitetail deer at 125. He also won bowhunter of the year for the highest aggregate score of 190 between his typical mule deer and typical whitetail deer. Other archery award winners were Jayden Van De Woestyne, non-typical whitetail deer (154 7/8); Kelly Pastachak, typical mule deer (171 5/8); Cameron Donovan, non-typical mule deer (206 2/8); and Jerry Michalski, typical elk (175 1/8). In junior rifle, winners were Ryder Mutrie, typical whitetail deer (150 4/8), and Kaylynn Katsantonis, nontypical whitetail deer (141 3/8).
In women's rifle, Lynn Johnson had the top whitetail deer (150 2/8), typical mule deer (171 1/8) and typical elk (221 6/8). Other winners were Tara Katsantonis, non-typical whitetail deer (141 6/8); Jaymee Tessier, antelope (75 2/8); Lindsay Dyer, moose (156 2/8); and Kristen Carlson, black bear (20 15/16). Men's rifle trophy winners were Brad Zukewich, typical whitetail deer (180 1/8), Sam Meek, non-typical whitetail deer (151 7/8); Blaine Stropko, typical mule deer (175); Brayden Katsantonis, non-typical mule deer (177 4/8); Vaughn Bourassa, typical elk (184 7/8); Kelly Pastachak, moose (172 5/8); Brady Plummer, black bear (20 13/16); and Perry Holmgren, antelope (75). Photography awards went to Lena Hayward for junior scenic and junior wildlife, Nichole Maisonneuve (senior scenic) and Mary Jacobs (senior wildlife). Jacobs also won the Photo of the Year award. EWF president Wanda Michel MCed the event and noted they were down in entries for the junior categories. She acknowledged it was tough to get young people hunting due to the current
trespassing laws in the province. If people have concerns or ideas regarding the legislation, she encouraged them to approach the EWF, because they would like to take them forward and find solutions. If someone has fish to be weighed in, they can contact Joshua Michel or Murray Mosley regarding the weigh scales. Pheasant entries were also down this year, even though she said there are a lot of pheasants out there. She was pleased with the number of photography entries this year. "I am really proud to say more young people are out there taking pictures, and more people in general are out there. We got to see some really great examples of some of the work that our members are doing." Michel believes it's "really inspiring" for the EWF to see the work of the photographers. Michel also thanked the volunteers, not only with the club but those who help make the events possible. She also lauded the executive for their efforts throughout the year. "They ensure that we have good habitat to hunt in, we have good bodies of water for us to fish in," said Michel.
Men's rifle and archery award winners were, back row, from left, Kelly Pastachak, Brady Plummer, Cameron Donovan, Perry Holmgren and Jerry Michalski. Front row, Blaine Stropko, Vaughn Bourassa, Brady Katsantonis and Jayden Van De Woestyne. Photos by David Willberg
From left, Lynn Johnson (women), Kristen Carlson (women), Ryder Mutrie (youth), Tara Katsantonis (women), Kaylynn Katsantonis (youth) and Lindsay Dyer (women) were winners in youth and women’s divisions.
Murray Mosley, left, won trophies for birds and fish, while Brent Olfert had the top pheasant. 24022DS1 24022DS2
From left, Lena Hayward, Nichole Maisonneuve and Mary Jacobs won photography awards. 24022DE0 24022DE1
CLASSIFIEDS A15 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
Balancing an unbalanced life
Obituaries Lisa Arnold 1946 - 2024 Lisa Arnold, late of Estevan, Sask. passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Estevan, SK on January 30, 2024 at the age of 77 years. Lisa’s memory will be forever loved and remembered by her family; son Surgiss Arnold and daughter Aleshia Arnold (Shahab Pichaghian). Her memory will also be cherished by her beloved grandchildren: Lachlan and Ciara Arnold; brothers, Bryan Ewaski and Michael Ewaski; nephew Damian (Tanya) Ewaski; Kenneth’s siblings: Eileen (Bill) Kapiczowski, Larry Arnold, Murray (Deby) Arnold, Lynn (Tom) McDonald and David (Linda) Arnold as well as numerous
nieces and nephews. Lisa was predeceased by her parents, Morrell and Mary Ewaski. husband Kenneth; her sister-in-law Gayle Ewaski; Kenneth’s parents: Bradley and Dorothea (McBride) Arnold. In keeping with Lisa’s wishes, there will not be a Memorial Service. Those wishing to pay tribute to Lisa via a donation in her memory may do so directly to a charity of choice. Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for Lisa’s family - Yvonne Clark, Funeral Director.
Jean Samis Mabel ‘Jean’ Samis died peacefully in Canmore on January 26, 2024 at the age of 87 years. Jean was preceded by her husband Ken and survived by her daughter Ronel, son-in-law Mark, son Brad, daughter in-law Dana, grandchildren Bronwyn and Dylan of Vancouver and her favourite dogs Wookie and Dobby. Jean was born on June 3, 1936 in Alameda, Saskatchewan to Bert and Margaret Efford. She married Ken in 1969, after meeting in Calgary in 1966 then again at the 1967 Montreal Expo. Jean and Ken lived in Edmonton and one of her first jobs there was at Canadian Utilities, where she would meet her lifelong friend, Julie Orr. Jean and Ken raised their children primarily in Edmonton, spending a few years in Swan Hills for Ken’s work. After the graduation of their children from high school, Jean and Ken decided to moved to Canmore and purchased Action Auto Parts, they then built a new house that they operated as a Bed and Breakfast for 6 enjoyable years. Jean loved her life in Canmore and truly thrived there. She always had a passion for fitness and loved spending her days skiing, hiking, golfing, and attending classes at the local gym and pool. Jean also had a great love of music and enjoyed singing with her choirs and attending concerts. She was actively involved with St. Michael’s Anglican Church as well as numerous volunteer activities and never seemed to run out of energy. Jean was a great fan of watching her Edmonton Oilers and Elks but also never forgot her Saskatchewan roots and remained an avid Rough Riders fan. She will be greatly missed by her family & her large community of friends. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 11 am in St Michael’s Anglican Church in Canmore. In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to remember Jean are encouraged to make a donation, in her memory to the charity of personal choice Condolences may be shared and viewed at www.bowriverfuneral.com BOW RIVER FUNERAL SERVICE (403) 678-4880
Feed & Seed
HealtH ServiceS
By Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ You know you have an unbalanced tire on your car because you can feel it. The car shakes, the steering wheel wobbles and you know that something is wrong. The same is true in our lives. We know when something is out of balance because we can feel it. For example, if you constantly feel like you have too much to do and too little time to do it, there is an issue. If you are easily offended, reactive, touchy and take everything the wrong way, it is likely that you are emotionally worn out. If you are distracted and constantly watching TV or scrolling through Facebook instead of focusing on what is Wanted
FARMLAND WANTED I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.
NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way. Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com
important and needed, something is not right. If the only time you enjoy your life is when you are on vacation and away from your normal routine, that is not healthy. Life is not meant to be a constant struggle. Rather, it is meant to be lived with a healthy rhythm that allows us to find refreshment while still engaging in important and satisfying work. God created us this way and Jesus demonstrated it when he was here. One place where that rhythm of work and re-
newal can be seen is in Mark 9. The chapter begins with Jesus taking Peter, James and John up a mountain to pray. While they were there, Jesus was transformed, and they saw a little of the glory he had before he came to earth (verses 2-3). Then they heard God saying, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him” (verse 7). After that, they came back down the mountain and found themselves in the middle of an argument. A man wanted his son healed and Jesus’ disciples
Youth arrested for arson for July 2023 fire in Estevan The Estevan Police Service (EPS) has concluded an investigation into a fire that occurred on July 7, 2023, at a Fourth Street residence. According to an EPS news release issued on Feb. 1, investigators have determined the fire was the result of arson and a youth has been charged criminally. As per provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the person’s name or any information that could identify the individual cannot be released. The home was damaged in the fire. The public is asked to contact the Estevan Police Service at 306-634-4767 with information about this or any other crime. In other recent police
news, members of the Estevan Police Service arrested and charged a 43-year-old Oxbow woman on Jan. 29 for impaired driving by drug, after a complaint was received. Her driver’s licence was suspended indefinitely and the vehicle she was operating was impounded for 30 days. She will appear in court in March to answer to the charges. Police arrested a 23-yearold Saskatoon man for mischief after a complaint from a local hotel. He was lodged in cells and will appear in court at a later date. Members also apprehended a 33-year-old man for causing a disturbance at St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was lodged in cells and will be released the
Wanted old advertising: Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi etc. Call 306-2215908
Career OppOrtunities
Now HiriNg
Business services
HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC
Come and develop your meChaniCal
skills at our busy,
WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX “ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252
Wanted
well-equipped shop.
** $40/hr and $20,000 bonus for the right candidate ** we offer Competitive wages, a Comprehensive
Livestock
GELBVIEH BULL SALE Red Deer Country Alberta Feb. 13th
benefits paCkage
and rrsp/dpsp plan.
We are Willing to
apprentice the right
jjtrucking@sasktel.net or visit
www.jjtruckingltd.com
Farm ServiceS
P. (306) 634-3631 • F. (306) 634-6901 • www.kohalyelash.com
Public Notice Rural Municipality of Estevan No. 5 Notice of Intent to Amend Zoning Bylaw Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Estevan No.5, intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw 5-2014 known as the Zoning Bylaw.
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.
For Sale - MiSc
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-6491405 to find out how!
Gainsborough: Thursday a.m. Carnduff: Thursday p.m. 1312 - 4th Street, Estevan, SK S4A 0X2
Reason: The reason for the bylaw amendment is to allow for increased size of free standing signs and signage attached to buildings in the Commercial and Industrial Districts to improve visibility and make the standards for signage more consistent within the districts and uses.
Nordal Limousin & Angus 2024 Bull Sale. Feb 22 Saskatoon Livestock Sales Saskatoon SK. Offering 50 2 Yr. old Limousin, Black & Red Angus. Catalogue and videos online at dlms.ca. Contact Rob Garner 306 946 7946. Rob Garner Simpson SK.
For Sale - MiSc
Paul Elash K.C. Aaron Ludwig, B.Sc., LL.B. Genevieve Schrader, B. Mgt., J.D.
following day. The EPS has received multiple complaints of a scam commonly referred to as the Grandparent Fraud. This type of scam involves the caller pretending to be a grandchild and needing money for legal issues, and requesting the grandparent send money via Western Union or other financial institutions. The EPS reminds the public to not provide any information if they are not completely confident in somebody’s identity and to report these occurrences. Police attended to a twovehicle collision in the Hillside area on Jan. 30. No injuries were reported and one vehicle had to be towed from the scene. Members conducted a curfew check in which the person is required to remain in their residence 24 hours a day as per their release conditions. They did not present themselves at the door and charges are pending. EPS members handled 45 calls during the weekend, and a number of them are under investigation. Members were called about a couple of impaired drivers. One of them was for alcohol and the individual was charged. The other involved drugs and charges have not been laid. Police also charged a person for mischief to property. Officers have also been investigating separate incidents of an assault and uttering threats and harassment. Multiple attempted scams were reported to police during the weekend.
Intent: The proposed bylaw will increase the size of free standing signs in the Agricultural Resource District, increase the size of free standing signs for Institutional/Recreational Uses and make signage attached to buildings less restrictive in the Commercial and Industrial Districts.
403-588-8620
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.
Barristers & Solicitors
candidate.
housing is available. Submit your reSume
could not do it. Jesus healed the boy and told the disciples that they could only do this work if they stayed connected to God (verse 29). The pattern is clear: spend time on the mountain filling up with the things of God and then come down and share what you have been given. Time spent with God gives us power. Time spent serving others gives us purpose. Repeating that pattern allows us to live a balanced and significant life.
For Sale - MiSc PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 49 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details.
Public Hearing: Council will hold a public hearing at 11:00 a.m. (local time) on Wednesday, February 28th, 2024 in the Council Chambers of the R.M. of Estevan No. 5, #1, 322 4th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. Dated at Estevan, Saskatchewan this 7th day of February, 2024. Michelle Dickie, Administrator
A16 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
Notice to Creditors
Notice to Creditors
In the estate of Alvin Howard Griffin, late of Estevan, in the Province of Saskatchewan, Deceased.
In the estate of
All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 8th day of March, 2024.
Fire crews respond to equipment fire
Dane William Ernst, Late of Estevan, Saskatchewan, deceased. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 21st day of March, 2024.
McGeough Zepick Law Office 1222-5th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan S4A 0Z6 Solicitors for the Executors
Estevan Fire Rescue Service members were called to a report of a vehicle fire on Feb. 4. The call came at about 2:20 a.m. from the central area of the city. A small fire occurred on a piece of construction equipment. The fire was contained by arriving Estevan Police Service members with the help of a fire extinguisher. “EFR crews arrived and confirmed fire extinguishment. Minor damage to the equipment. No injuries reported. The fire is under investigation,” said Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies. Earlier last week, firefighters also responded to a two-vehicle collision in northeast Estevan. The call came in around 11 a.m. on Jan. 30. Crews responded
Moffat & Company Barristers & Solicitors 5 First Avenue NE Weyburn, SK S4H 0M6
24022JJ0
and determined that it was a minor incident with no injuries. They assisted with fluid spill cleanup and then returned to the station. On Feb. 1 around 8 p.m., the EFRS members were dispatched for a smoke investigation on the northeast side of the city. Crews responded, investigated and quickly determined no emergency was occurring. Smoke in the area was from a residential fireplace, said Davies. The next call for service came on Feb. 2 at about 5:40 p.m. A commercial fire alarm in the northwest area went off. Crews responded and determined the alarm was activated due to a pull station being bumped. Firefighters assisted with resetting the alarm.
Farm Photos Wanted!! The Estevan Mercury is in search of farm photos for the annual ON THE FARM edition coming out in March! Receive the credit you deserve for the beautiful photos you have taken around your farm. Email your pictures to production@estevanmercury.ca by February 23rd, along with a description of the photo and your name. Your pictures could very well be chosen for our next edition of ON THE FARM! Please send photos as a high resolution jpg or pdf.
Public Notice Rural Municipality of Estevan No. 5 Notice of Intent to Amend Zoning Bylaw Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Estevan No.5, intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw 5-2014 known as the Zoning Bylaw. Intent: The proposed bylaw will add definitions, regulations and development standards to the zoning bylaw to address the development of both small and commercial-scale wind and solar renewable energy projects. Reason: The reason for the bylaw amendment is to ensure wind and solar energy projects are developed, maintained, and decommissioned in a manner that protects the interest of the municipality. 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 at 11:30 a.m. (local time) on Wednesday, February 28th, 2024 in the Council Chambers of the R.M. of Estevan No. 5, #1, 322 4th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. Dated at Estevan, Saskatchewan this 7th day of February, 2024. Michelle Dickie, Administrator
Public Notice Rural Municipality of Estevan No. 5 Notice of Intent to Amend Official Community Plan Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Estevan No.5, intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw 4-2014 known as the Official Community Plan.
Sales Event
2024 WINTER
CALL US TODAY For the Best Discount of the Year Starting February 8 to February 25, 2024
Intent: The proposed bylaw will update the policies respecting renewable energy projects. Reason: The reason for the bylaw amendment is to ensure consistency between the policies respecting renewable energy projects and the regulations for wind and solar energy development established in the zoning bylaw. 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 at 11:15 a.m. (local time) on Wednesday, February 28th, 2024 in the Council Chambers of the R.M. of Estevan No. 5, #1, 322 4th Street Estevan, Saskatchewan to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. Dated at Estevan, Saskatchewan this 7th day of February, 2024. Michelle Dickie, Administrator
REDRIVER LUMBER LTD. 481 Devonian St. HOURS: 306.634.2114 or 306.634.2143 Weekdays 7:00am - 5:30pm rrlquote@sasktel.net Saturday 7:30am - 5:00pm rrlsalesdesk@sasktel.net *includes Windows, Entry, Garden Doors and Sliding, and Patio Doors.
SPORTS A17 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024 | www.SASKTODAY.ca
Estevan hosts regional figure skating competition Talented young figure skaters from southeast and east-central Saskatchewan were at Affinity Place on Saturday for the Region 1 and 6 Regional/Invitational Competition. Seventy-nine athletes competed in the meet, including 13 from the host Estevan club. Region 1 boasts skaters from the southeast corner of the province, while Region 6 is for east-central skaters. There were also some skaters from rural areas outside of Regina that aren’t part of Regions 1 or 6. “It was a big day and there was a lot of competitors but it seemed everything went smoothly,” said Estevan club coach Ashley Piper. She believes the skaters from all of the clubs have been getting better each year. Skaters from the Star 1-5 divisions participated. Those in Star 1-4 competed in the free skate, in which they performed a routine choreographed to music with jump and spin elements. The elements portion allows skaters to separately perform four different elements – typically two jumps, a spin and a spiral sequence. There was also a team
Sybil Brickley from Kennedy’s skating club was among the competitors. Photo by David Willberg skate in which the skaters only complete one of the elements, and there was also creative improv. “The skaters, right before they go onto the ice, they get to hear the song they’re going to skate to one time, I believe it is. And then they go onto the ice, they get to hear it two times in their warmup, and then they skate one at a time to the song, so they have to make up moves with
the music.” There was also an artistic skate for Star 5 skaters at the start of the day. The skaters in Star 1-3 are assessed to a standard and receive a ribbon based on their performance. Piper said they get a gold, silver or bronze ribbon on each component. As for Star 4, they get a medal based on how they fare against their competitors. In the Star 2 division,
From left, Harlow Ludwig, Meeka Gedak and Janiyah Laforga were among the Estevan skaters. Photo courtesy of Ashley Piper Alexis Kolenz won bronze in the free skate. Juri Kim and Amelia McQuiod won bronze in free skate and silver in elements, and Ryley Istace and Keomi Mazo won silver in both free skate and elements. In Star 3, Hudson Ludwig and Sofia Crana won silver in both free skate and elements, Izzy Fonstad won bronze in free skate and gold in elements, and Madison
Neilson and Danae Schlamp won silver in free skate and gold in elements. Piper noted Ludwig was the only boy in the competition. As for Star 4, Janiyah Laforga tied for the bronze medal in elements, Harlow Ludwig won bronze in her free skate, and Meeka Gedak tied for bronze in the elements and won silver in her free skate. “We had lots of younger
skaters that are just starting. It was their first competition” said Piper. Each event had three judges. The competition also required the effort of a lot of volunteers. Piper believes at least one parent for each of the Estevan skaters helped out at some point during the day, and parents of some younger Estevan skaters and CanSkate members also gave their time.
Bruins scored seven Saturday, get weekend split An offensive explosion Saturday night helped the Estevan Bruins get a split in their weekend home and home with the Yorkton Terriers. The Estevan Bruins scored five goals in a wild second period to defeat the Terriers 7-4 on Saturday night in Yorkton.The game was played one night after the Bruins lost 4-2 to Yorkton at Affinity Place. In Friday night’s game, Felix Allard scored 68 seconds into the first period to give the Bruins the lead, but 27 seconds later, Aiden Knutson replied for the Terriers. It remained a 1-1 game until Anthony McIntosh tallied for Yorkton, and Brett Butz added to the lead later in the frame. Zachery Burns’ goal on a power play with 39 seconds to play in the frame pulled Estevan to within one.
Dustin Renas put the Terriers up by two again with the only goal of the third. It was Renas’ first in the SJHL after he spent the season in the Western Hockey League. Jye Zawatsky, a former member of the Estevan Great North U18 AAA Bears, had three helpers for Yorkton. Cam Hrdlicka made 27 saves for the Bruins, while Farrow had 41 saves for the Terriers. Yorkton held a 1-0 lead after the first period Saturday on a goal by Renas. But then Ilia Chmelevski scored 74 seconds into the second period to tie the game, and Allard, Chmelevski and Keagon Little tallied less than two minutes apart to put the Bruins up by three. The goals by Allard and Little were on the power play. Renas notched his second and third of the game in less than two minutes to
pull the Terriers to within one, but Little responded to give the Bruins some breathing room. Cade Kennedy scored against his former team in the third to add to the Bruins’ cushion and Chmelevski notched his third of the game on a power play a few minutes later. Jye Zawatsky’s goal for Yorkton rounded out the scoring. Chmeleveski added two assists to finish with a five-point night. Jackson Miller stopped 31 shots for the Bruins, while Ethan Farrow (34 saves on 40 shots) and Adam Kelly (seven saves on eight shots) shared goaltending duties for Yorkton. The Bruins’ next action will be on Feb. 10 when they will host the Flin Flon Bombers, the top-ranked team in the country. The game will start at 7 p.m.
Zachery Burns (20) fends off a Yorkton defender during Friday night’s game in Estevan.
Curling club looking to renovate concession area
Estevan city council learned more about plans to renovate the concession area at the Power Dodge Curling Centre during a recent meeting. Club president Tyler McMillen, past-president Devon Fornwald and manager Pauline Ziehl Grimsrud were at the meeting to speak to council and answer questions. McMillen noted that as per the agreement between the rink's board and the City of Estevan, the curling club would have its yearly rental cost cover the expense of the renovation until it is paid in full. "We have not requested any quotes as we need to know if the plans are acceptable to the city before we or you tender the project," said McMillen. "When we have tenders for
the project, we can then apply for grants." In the past, the curling club directed the money to new windows and other upgrades for the facility. Most recently a room was added at the east end of the building for ice scraping and water tanks, which give more room for maintenance and ice preparation. The kitchen is in "desperate" need of an upgrade, he said. The plan is to reuse as much as possible, but they want to clean it up and make it last longer. The curling club recognizes the city's 2024 budget has already been finalized and this is the final year for the current council. They would look for an upgrade in the 2025 fiscal plan unless there is an opportunity for
something sooner. Coun. Kirsten Walliser, who is the city's representative on the curling club board, wanted to know how this project would fit the club and what the curling rink could do that it can't do presently. Ziehl Grimsrud said the kitchen area has not been renovated since the curling rink was built in 1972. "We have plumbing that freezes regularly, we have countertops that are barely meeting sanitary requirements. There's nothing we can do to them to make them better. So, we're looking at some physical upgrades that we need to happen," she said. They have some lingering projects that need to happen in the building, and the kitchen is the top priority.
"We need to deal with the reality of serving quality food in a quick process. We need a place that can be sanitary," said Ziehl Grimsrud. The kitchen operation has traditionally been contracted out, but it is now being handled in-house, starting with the second half of this curling season. Coun. Lindsay Clark asked what would happen if the project came in over budget and had a price tag of at least $250,000. Ziehl Grimsrud said they don't have a budget for the project as of yet. "We have three grants targeted, but cannot go ahead with them until I have a quote of what the kitchen will cost," said Ziehl Grimsrud. The curling rink's board
needs council's approval before it can seek a price quote. The club hopes that when the renovation is complete, they can bring in more Christmas parties and other functions. Now that the club is running the kitchen, they will budget next year to see the money it could generate for the club, but she hopes it could be
at least $15,000. Council ultimately tabled the request to give the city's management team a chance to see the design before the curling club moves forward. There is still $60,000 owing on the east addition that would have to be paid off before the kitchen renovation can begin.
CANTINA Food and Drink
Tuesday
Night Bingo
Thursday Night $6
Burger & Fries 4pm - 7pm
Saturday Night Canadian’s at Par (food only)
We hold Canadian packages
20 Main St. Portal, ND 58772 • Mon - Sat 7am-9pm • Sunday 7am-2pm
24021MM3
A18 February 7, 2024
www.SASKTODAY.ca
Flashback Feb. 9, 1994 Thanks to their Discovery Boxes, students at Sacred Heart School learned more about what it's like to live in other parts of the province. The Discovery Box project – Amih-Ka-Mihk Mistih-Ko-Was – in the Cree language, twinned native and non-native classes across Saskatchewan in recognition of the United Nations' International Year of the World's Indigenous People. Aaron Peters, left, Jennifer Fichter, Raymond Poirer and Raymond Tarnes of Sacred Heart were looking through the boxes their classes received in the Discovery Box exchange.
Mermaids compete at provincial event in Saskatoon The Estevan Mermaids s y n c h ro n i z e d s w i m c l u b’s competitive athletes attended the Sandra Roberts Provincial Championship swim meet in Saskatoon from Jan. 26-28. Athletes competed in solo and team events for figures, as well as junior free and technical solos. In the youth with exhibition, Isabelle Pyra finished 15th, Rowyn Shier was 20th, Sasha Mantei came in 24th, Mahaley Fonstad was 30th, Sarah Pyra finished 31st, Sierra Mantei came in 32nd and Rory Miller was 38th. In the youth women’s
solo free final, and the youth women’s solo free championship, Isabelle P yra ranked 11th. In the youth team free final, and the youth team free final championship, the Mermaids finished fourth. In the junior women’s solo free final, Sasha Mantei was fourth, Ava Allen finished fifth and Rowyn Shier came in sixth. In the junior women’s solo technical final, Ava Allen finished first. She was also selected to go to the Canadian qualifiers in March for her junior free and tech solos.
Isabelle Pyra, Sarah Pyra, Rowyn Shier, Sierra Mantei, Mahaley Fonstad, Rory Miller and Sasha Mantei represented the Mermaids. Photo courtesy of Jessica Saxon
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
Mayor’s Message
Wine and Whisker’s is happening February 10, 2024 at the Exhibition Hall - there are still a few tickets left to help the Humane Society.
For Public Safety Please help keep our sidewalks safe so all citizens can enjoy a safe passage while walking Traffic Bylaw 2022-2064 Depositing Substances 53.
(1) No person shall deposit any natural substances on any highway, public sidewalk, boulevard or ditch within the City of Estevan, excepting:
(a) On 4th Street from Souris Avenue and 14th Avenue where the building is abutting the property line; (b) On 5th Street from 13th Avenue to Souris Avenue where the building is abutting the property line; (c) On 11th Avenue from 3rd Street to 5th Street where the building is abutting the property line; (d) On 12th Avenue from 3rd Street to 6th Street where the building is abutting the property line; (e) On 13th Avenue from the north side of 4th Street North 40 meters. (2) No person shall dump any substance on any highway, public sidewalk, boulevard or ditch within the City of Estevan. (3) The occupier of property in the City of Estevan shall remove any snow, ice or other obstruction from the public sidewalk adjacent to such property within twenty-four (24) hours of the time such snow, ice or other obstruction appears on such public sidewalk. In the event that this subsection is not complied with, the City may remove such snow, ice or other obstructions at the expense of such occupants or owner, and in the event of the nonpayment of such expense, such expense may be charges against the property as a special assessment to be recovered in like manner as and with the taxes. * In the event that this subsection is not complied with, the City may remove such snow, ice or other obstructions at the expense of such occupants or owner, and in the event of the non-payment of such expense, such expense may be charges against the property as a special assessment to be recovered in like manner as and with the taxes.
The Estevan Police Service is seeking applications for the position of Police Constable. The Estevan Police Service offers a competitive salary and benefits package, ongoing professional development, and a range of career opportunities. Currently serving and trained Canadian police officers are encouraged to apply. All candidates must possess minimum qualifications, including the following: • 18 years of age • Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent • Excellent physical condition and health with no medical conditions that would prohibit your ability to safely complete recruit training and perform all aspects of police work • Canadian citizen, landed immigrant, or have a permanent residency at the time of application • Valid driver’s license (unrestricted for a minimum of one year) and good driving record • Good moral character • Exemplary employment record • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral • Computer skills For more information on the requirements, selection process, and the application package, please visit our website, www.estevanpolice.ca (Employment Opportunities). A fully completed Personal Disclosure Form must accompany each application. Please submit completed packages, including an up-to-date resume, in a sealed envelope to: Chief of Police Estevan Police Service 301-11th Ave., Estevan, Sask., S4A 1C7 Thank you for your interest in the Estevan Police Service. No phone calls, please. Only successful candidates will be contacted. The closing date is March 15, 2024.