Estevan couple hailed as heroes for rescuing woman’s beloved dog while holidaying in B.C.
By David Willberg
An Estevan couple’s quick thinking, while they were vacationing in northwest B.C. earlier in the summer, enabled them to rescue a dog.
Elizabeth Carbino and Brad Smith were visiting family in the region. While out for a drive, Carbino kept travelling down a highway until they reached a boat launch.
“ is lady came up. She looked very distressed. I noticed her dog leash but no dog. I love animals, so I wanted to pet her dog, and the dog wasn’t there,” Carbino said in an interview with the Mercury and SaskToday
When Carbino asked if the woman was okay, she said her dog fell in the river and she couldn’t get him out.
“I ran over to the van to get Brad, and I told him we have to help this lady. Her dog’s in the river and she can’t get to him. So, it was the right place at the right time,” said Carbino.
Carbino and Smith have a chihuahua, a miniature dachshund and two Siamese cats.
e woman is Sandra O’Connor, who lives in Langley, B.C. In an email, she noted her husband
passed away from cancer last October and her father died from cancer in March. She and her border collie Bamsi – a dog her husband had picked out and loved –were on a road trip to the Yukon and Alaska, visiting friends along the way.
O’Connor was travelling from Terrace to Prince Rupert when she stopped for a break at a picnic area on the Exchamsiks River, which is a short drive from the main highway.
“ is is a remote area of northern B.C., and other than commercial trucks and a few vehicles, there is not a lot of tra c on this route,” said O’Connor.
After lunch in the picnic area, she walked her dog on his leash. ere was a small creek running underneath a bridge feeding into the river; as her dog was thirsty and she didn’t think she could safely manoeuvre the bank, she let him o his leash to have a drink.
“I’m not sure to this day how it happened, whether he saw something o in the distance and chased it over the embankment or he looked over the embankment and it gave way, but a split second later, I heard a giant splash and my dog was gone,” O’Connor said.
She came as close to the
edge as she could – she estimates it was at least 1012 feet straight down – and she could not see Bamsi but could hear him when she called.
“I ran to another point that jutted out along the embankment and from that view, could just see a bit of his head. I was calling for him, hoping he could swim towards the little creek he had just had a drink in but in hindsight, I’m grateful that did not happen as he probably would have ended up in the icy Exchamsiks River and been pushed out into the Skeena.”
She realized she couldn’t rescue Bamsi and he wasn’t able to get to safety on his own, so she ran towards the bridge thinking she would nd an emergency number on an information kiosk.
As she was approaching the bridge, she saw Carbino getting out of a minivan. O’Connor ran up to Carbino, explained the situation, and Carbino explained her partner was used to running up and down rocky cli s and turned to him for help.
“At great risk and peril to themselves, she [Elizabeth] was lying on the ground, reaching over the embankment and communicating with my dog. She told me she could see Bam-
si had actually fallen in between some large branches and debris and was stuck – and her partner made at least two or three attempts scaling the embankment in di erent ways and nally got close enough to Bamsi, grabbed the handle on his harness and got him out of the water.”
Carbino and Smith recall the side of the em-
bankment was very soft and could have caved in at any time. Smith said he had to climb down twice, rst to assess where the dog was and get a line of sight, and then reposition himself to get where the dog was. He moved a log to stand on it, reached over, grabbed Bamsi, and showed the dog its leash to gain its trust.
Two candidates vying for federal Tory nomination
Steven Bonk and Mike Strachan are vying for the right to represent the Conservatives Party of Canada in Souris-Moose Mountain in the next federal election.
Voting for the party’s nomination will take place on Aug. 9 and 10 in three locations in the constituency: Moosomin on Aug. 9, Estevan in the morning of Aug. 10 and Weyburn later that day, with the results to be announced that evening. Bonk is currently the MLA for the Moosomin
constituency, while Strachan is the mayor of Torquay.
Current MP Robert Kitchen announced in early July he would not run again in the next federal election. He has been the Souris-Moose Mountain MP since 2015. e format for each of the three meetings will be the same, starting with speeches from the two candidates, and then a period of voting, which has to be done in person.
In Moosomin, the session will be at the Royal Canadian Legion on Aug. 9, the speeches will start at 4:30 p.m., with voting from 5-7 p.m. In Estevan, the meeting will be at the Wylie-Mitchell Hall, with speeches at 9:30 a.m. and voting from 10 a.m. to noon. en the scene shifts to Weyburn at the Royal Canadian Legion. Speeches will be at 3:30 p.m., and voting is from 4-6 p.m., with the nal results to then be announced.
Estevan’s rock snake is back at its old home
It started as a fun community e ort in Estevan in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, and has grown to include the work of many other people.
Brae and Maddyn Wolensky created a rock snake beside the walking path on Rooney Road. It started out with 21 painted rocks but grew to hundreds by the end of that summer.
In an email to the Mercury and SaskToday, the girls’ mother Kaylyn Wolensky said the snake grew much quicker than they expected, as people were eager to add their own painted rocks to the collection.
e rocks were then kept at the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum for display during the winter of 202122. e following summer, Brae and Maddyn thought the rock snake would run
out of room, so they decided to split it into three: one to remain on Rooney Road, another for a walking path on Hawkes Bay, and the third for the pathways at Woodlawn Regional Park. At one point the total number of rocks exceeded 1,000.
But they didn’t see much growth in the two new areas and the Woodlawn snake was vandalized last year when someone chucked all of the rocks around, so they opted to return all rocks to their original location, which Kaylyn said is close to their home, allowing them to watch its growth.
e Wolensky girls want to get the rock snake growing again. With the help of the community, it is currently at 771 rocks. ey have somewhat split up the snake further down the path to a retaining wall,
giving it more room for growth.
Kaylyn believes her daughters painted only about 30 of the rocks.
“It provides many smiles and excitement for the girls and they hope it can do the same for people who visit the snake,” she said. “ eir goal for summer 2024 is for the rock snake to make it back up to 1,000 rocks.”
When they started it a few years ago, Brae and Madden never imagined it would grow so long.
ey thought a few people would paint rocks in that rst summer to create something for the community.
“It brings a smile to your face when you walk by, and it’s cool to look at the different rocks and add to it, and feel like you’re participating in something,” Kaylyn said.
Dog rescue in remote location comes as miracle
“I lifted the dog up, and Elizabeth was there to grab the leash and just lead the dog in the right direc-
tion,” said Smith. All they could think about was saving the dog after all O’Connor had
been through. O’Connor repeatedly asked them not to risk their lives for Bamsi and
Report from theLegislature
Saskatchewan’s economyisstableand ourprovinceremains oneofthe most affordable places inthe nation to invest,live, work andraise afamily. Saskatchewan sawa 12.9per cent increase inbuildingconstructioninvestments from May2023 to May2024, seasonally-adjusted. The province also ranked firstinthe nation forgrowthinretailtrade,increasingby6.1 percentfrom May2023toMay 2024. Thetotal valueofretailtrade salesinMay 2024 was$2.2billion Morningstar DBRS recently affirmed theprovince’sAA(low) credit rating andstableoutlook Saskatchewancurrently hasthe second-highest credit rating amongthe provinceswhenall three major rating agencies (Moody’s, MorningstarDBRS, andS&P)are considered.InJune2024, S&P Global RatingsgaveSaskatchewanthe highestcreditratingamong Canadian provinces. Statistics Canada’s latest GDPnumbers indicate that Saskatchewan’s 2023 real GDPreached an all-time high of $77.9billion,increasingby$1.2billion,or1.6 percent. This places Saskatchewan secondinthe nation forrealGDP growth,above thenationalaverage of 1.2per cent A strong andgrowing economyallowsustoinvestinthe programs andservicesthatmattermost toSaskatchewanpeople, such as healthcare.The province’s Health HumanResources (HHR)Action Plantorecruit,train,incentivize andretainhealthcareworkers continuestoshowstrongresults acrossthe province
Thefirst of 27 newpermanent NursePractitionerpositions availableacrossrural,remoteand regional areaswas filledinMaple Creekand we have apositionavailable in Estevan. Theapplication and hiring processfor theremaining positionsisongoing,and qualifiedNPs areencouragedtoapply. Morethan330 hard-to-recruitpositions have been filled throughthe Ruraland Remote Recruitment Incentive program. Another237 Internationally-Educated Health Professionalsfromthe Philippines are nowworking throughout theprovince. In addition,applications arestill beingaccepted forthe Final Clinical PlacementBursaries.Ten newpsychiatrists have accepted lettersofoffer andare movingthrough theonboardingprocess.
Ourgovernment, alongwiththe Saskatchewan Health Authority(SHA) arepleased to announce the successful recruitmentofpediatric gastroenterologist Dr.Rabin Persad,who will beginpracticing in theprovinceonOctober 1, 2024.Childrenwithgastrointestinalissues andtheir families will soon have localaccess to care in theprovince, reducing wait timesand travel
Details on health care opportunities, howtoaccess them andinformation on Saskatchewan’s HHR ActionPlanare availableatwww.Saskatchewan.ca/HHR
Ourgovernmentiscommitted to investinginSaskatchewancommunities to ensure they remain the best placetolive, work andraise afamily. Underthe Targeted Sector Support (TSS)initiative, $620,000was recently invested in 22 projects to strengthen municipalservice delivery andenhance governanceand administrative capacity.Since inception, over $9 millionhas been allocatedtothe TSS Initiative
Saskatchewan is grownthrough investment in projects that support thelongevity andvibrancy of communitiesand improvethe livesofresidents.The specializedTSS fundingprovidedin partnership with Saskatchewan’s municipalassociationssupportsmunicipalitiestoworktogether to better servetheir citizens
To furtherstrengthenour province’s communities,Lotteries andGamingSaskatchewanprovided $1.16 million in charitable gaming grants in thefirst quarterof2024-25, benefiting more than 750 groups andorganizations across theprovince. Thegrantssupport hundreds of charitable andnonprofit groups throughout Saskatchewan including thosefocused on amateursport,culture,the arts,animalrescue, serviceclubs andmuch more.Inour constituency places like theSERegionalLibrary,TownofMidalepool programing, Estevan ArtGallery andMuseum, EstevanEarly YearsFamilyResourceCentre, EstevanPublicYouth Centre, Souris Valley Museum andSourisValleyTheatre areall benefiting in this roundofgrants. Overthe next twoyears,our government is providing$2million to Food BanksofSaskatchewanto help Saskatchewan families andfoodbanks with high food costs. Food BanksofSaskatchewanwillreceive $1 millioninAugust andanother $1 million in 2025-26.Thiswillhelpthe Salvation ArmyinEstevan directly
As ourgovernmentcontinues this work,welookforward to hearing from you. If youhavequestions,concernsorcomments, you canreach outtomyconstituencyofficeat306634 7311 or loricarrmla@sasktel.net
then repeatedly told them they were angels sent from heaven.
“ ere’s no earthly reason why a young couple from Estevan, Saskatchewan, should have pulled into this remote area when they did. I really hate to
think what would have happened had God not sent them to me and Bamsi,” said O’Connor.
Despite Carbino and Smith’s wishes, O’Connor gave them a reward with the money from her purse.
O’Connor didn’t think it
was su cient, so they met up again later in the day, and O’Connor gave them $500, explaining to them they saved two lives that day – hers and Bamsi’s.
“I don’t know emotionally how I would have made it through a third loss in less than a year,” said O’Connor.
Carbino and Smith didn’t do it for a reward, they did it because she believes there isn’t enough kindness in the world
“She wouldn’t let me leave without the money. She shoved it in my pocket … and told me if she had the money, she would have emptied her bank account, because she was so grateful and everything.”
If you see someone in distress, Carbino encourages kindness, because you never know what they are going through. Every little bit of help matters in the world.
e couple hasn’t talked to O’Connor since that day, but they’re glad they were there to help her.
High attendance marks historical Pioneer Echoes Weekend in Midale COMMUNITY
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Pioneer Echoes Days drew a big crowd to Midale on Aug. 3 and 4, bringing the community together to celebrate its rich heritage with a variety of events and activities.
e annual event, organized by the Souris Valley Antique Association (SVAA), saw approximately 600 people attend the pancake breakfasts held on both days, surpassing previous years’ averages of 500 attendees.
“It went really well. It was very busy. We had record attendance for our breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday,” said Ryan Swenson, vice-president of the SVAA.
Despite some weather challenges on Sunday, the event saw higher participation overall, with sig-
ni cant community and out-of-town engagement in various demonstrations and activities.
“Our participation, not only from the community but people that have come from out of town, was really impressive,” Swenson noted.
e town’s historical village was open to guests.
A tractor parade occurred at 2 p.m. on both days, with dozens of old tractors making their way through the grounds, showcasing machines that belong to the museum and those that people brought in for the weekend.
A live threshing demo followed the parade.
e weekend’s events also included a larger-than-ever trade show showcasing local and smaller businesses.
“All in all, as far as the events went, it was phe-
nomenal. We couldn’t be happier. Everything went o without a hitch,” Swenson added.
A new addition this year was the people mover, which received positive feedback for its convenience in transporting attendees to di erent parts of the festival, including the Midale Classy Car Show and Shine on Main Street.
“It was a great addition, it was full all weekend. And when the guy that ran it would take a break, there were countless people coming up saying they’d like to go for a ride,” said Swenson.
e success of the people mover has prompted organizers to consider expanding this service next year, so it never has to stop.
e festival also had a use for the new SVAA and Midale Rodeo Committee’s building, put up by the RM of Cymri, which hosted various activities throughout the weekend.
“[Midale Rodeo Committee] used it for their cabaret on Friday night after the Bull Bash and ran a beer garden out of it all weekend. Live music again on Saturday night … It was really nice to see,” Swenson said, highlighting the building’s contribution to the event’s overall success, and noting that SVAA will now be able to store the antiques in there over the winter.
Funds raised from Pioneer Echoes Days will support the association’s operating costs, following the recent loss of one of its major sponsors, Swenson noted.
Re ecting on the weekend, Swenson emphasized the positive community feedback and the smooth execution of events.
Celebration of Life Doug Rogers 1971 -2024
Shannon, Chloeand Reeseinviteanyonewho knew andloved Doug to join thefamilyfor aCelebration of Life at theBienfaitMemorialRinkonAugust10, 2024 at3:00pm, with alight lunchtofollow.
Everyone is encouraged to bringorweara touque as he is most remembered always wearinghis Doug is survived by hispartner of 25 yearsShannon, theirchildrenChloe andReese; brothers,Lawrenceand David(Joann) andnumerousnieces, nephews andextendedfamily.
He is predeceasedbyhis parents Harvey andAlberta Rogers andsisterBeverley.
It is with extreme sadness that the familyofFred Lalonde announces his peaceful passing on Friday June 14, 2024 at at the age of 73
with his family by his side.
Fred wasborn in and went to school in Estevan, where he met and married Marge (Peterson) Lalonde.The family move dt oWestb ank in 19 75 th en to C astlega ri n1 977, where Fred started aRoofing &Sidingbusinesswith his brother-in-lawMarcel Audet.
Fred wasamember of the Lions for 10 years as well as a Castlegarvolunteer fireman for25years
Fred lovedtotravel, spending timeinhis yard and garden, pl ay in gc ar ds wi th fa mi ly an df ri en ds an dw as alwa ys offering to help anyone in need often with asmile on his face. Fred is survive db yh is children Ang e la ( Kim) Be nt t, Derek (Melodie )L al on de, hi s6 grandchil dren She lb y, Kolby,Danielle, Kelsey(Mark) Fergusson,Alicia Kindret andOwen as well as twogreat-grandchildren Reid and Annie. His brothers and sisters Omer (Dorothy) Lalonde,Emile (Doris) Lalonde, Elaine Audet, Leonard (Helene) Lalonde, Raymond(Donna) Lalonde, Jo-AnneLalonde (Bob Mathews) andErnie (Lynne) Lalonde as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Fred wasalso predeceasedbyhis parents Leon and Julia (nee Cossette) Lalonde, his infant sister Simone Lalonde, sister Genevieve Janssen, brother-in-lawsMaurice Janssen andMarcel Audet. Fred wasmarried Marge Lalonde (Peters) for 45 years and spent his last 6years with LillianZibin. Thank you Lillian for caring for Fred theselastfew years. Ag rave sit es er vice wa sh el da tt he Cas tlega rC eme te ry on July 12th follo wed by aC el eb rat ion of Li fe at the St. Rita's Catholic Church Hall.
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EDITORIAL
Elections dates shouldn’t be in conflict
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For years, Saskatchewan’s municipalities held their elections on the last Wednesday of October. ey were every three years until 2012, when terms were extended to four years. en in 2020, the provincial government decided the last week in October was the perfect time to hold an election, and punted the municipalities aside, forcing them to have their vote in November. is year the provincial election will be Oct. 28, and the civic election will be Nov. 13. Now, if you’re a political junkie who can’t get enough of elections, two votes in roughly a two-week span is going to be right up your alley. But if you’re not, then having a civic election 16 days after the provincial vote is only going to lead to voter fatigue and even confusion.
(Don’t sco at the last remark. How often do you hear people blame a municipal council for something that is the provincial government’s responsibility, such as the fact that the new Estevan regional nursing home still hasn’t been constructed?)
We’re not sure why the provincial government thought a late October election date was so desirable that it had to muscle the urban and rural municipalities, as well as the school boards, out of what has traditionally been their time.
We get that there is a limited window of opportunity to have an election in Saskatch-
ewan. If you have it too early in the spring, then you run the risk of foul weather. If you run it too late, then you’re up against farmers’ seeding operations and other work. You can’t have an election too early in the fall, because farmers might still be harvesting. If you go too late in the fall, you tempt fate with foul weather. And you don’t want to send people to the polls in the summer or winter.
So there might be a window of opportunity of six to eight weeks to have an election in this province during a year.
It’s worth noting that the provincial elections in 2003, 2007 and 2011 were in November. e 2016 election was in April. It wasn’t until 2020 that the government thought its election should occupy late October. In 2003, when the then-governing New Democratic Party decided to have an election in the fall, it was in November, a couple of weeks after the civic vote.
(We also saw the downside of the November timing in 2020 when a snowstorm rolled through the province right before election day, forcing delays in such communities as Saskatoon and elsewhere).
Municipal governments and school boards tend to be at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to electoral in uence. e federal government has power over their provincial counterparts; the provincial government has sway over the municipal councils. at’s not to say that your
urban municipalities, rural municipalities and school boards don’t have in uence. But if the provincial government decides they want the municipal election date, then they’ll take it, no matter what a city or RM council thinks.
We also understand that a provincial election gets a higher voter turnout than a civic vote.
But let’s also remember this: civic and school board politics represent the bedrock of our democracy. You have a level of contact with your locally elected o cials that you don’t have with your MLA, even in communities the size of Estevan.
We have one mayor, six councillors and two school board trustees. ( e school board members do cover some areas outside of Estevan city limits). Our MLA is responsible for an area well beyond Estevan’s city limits; her area is actually going to grow when the next election is called. is should be the last time we ever have the two elections so close together. e province should do the right thing and return to the April date we saw in 2016. An election date around April 15-22 won’t guarantee we’ll avoid a massive post-winter storm, but it reduces the chance. e other option is to allow the municipalities to have their vote in mid-to-late April, and eliminate what is for many a frustrating con ict.
What will the prisoner swap cost?
Side note: Some of you may have noticed that I’ve recently disappeared from the news eld. I took most of July o to visit my family in Russia – one of the most di cult (both physically and emotionally) holidays I could have come up with, and from my perspective, in today’s world, it wasn’t the safest trip either.
Now, to the topic: As I was travelling back to Canada, Russia and the West completed what’s considered to be their biggest prisoner swap since the Cold War. e exchange set free over two dozen people, mainly high-pro le personalities, with 16 Americans and Russians detained by the Kremlin swapped for eight Russian nationals held in jails in the U.S. and Europe. e Russian side got Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted in Germany in 2021 and sentenced to life in prison for a murder (apparently, the deal-breaking person for Moscow), as well as two alleged sleeper agents jailed in Slovenia, and men charged by federal authorities in the U.S., Norway and Poland.
Moscow released three Americans: journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva (dual citizen), and corporate security executive Paul Whelan, along with several Russian political prisoners including Vladimir Kara-Murza, Ilya Yashin, Andrei Pivovarov and others.
Ever since all the released Americans and Russians were arrested, I couldn’t resist the fear for their lives. So, as a person and as a journalist, I was indeed relieved when I saw the news about them being free and safe and nally talking to their families after months or years in Russian prisons.
Of course, there is a good chance that
Ana Bykhovskaia
Twenty Lines About…
Russia will now use the fact that they were demanded for exchange by the West, to make them look even less reliable in the eyes of Russian citizens, which will a ect the political e orts of those released. But to me, it was all secondary to the fact that they made it out.
To tell you the truth, this swap came as a surprise for me. After three weeks of visiting with people in St. Petersburg, I felt that they weren’t expecting anything before the American election and until Donald Trump would claim the American helm again. But Joe Biden trumpeted this multinational deal.
It wasn’t a secret that the exchange negotiations were in the works for a long time and well before Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny - who de nitely was a part of the swap talks – died in prison in February. So, the fact that the parties came to a historical agreement could mean that it was just natural progress. However, it could also mean that the Russian approach to this negotiation has changed after Biden announced in July he wasn’t going to run for president. Or it could mean something else.
While the terms of this kind of trade have always been top secret, once the emotions and initial release went down, one of the rst questions was what the price of this exchange would be. We won’t know the real price, but we’ll have to face the aftermath.
Will this deal embolden Russian Presi-
dent Vladimir Putin (and potentially other dictators around the world)? If taking an international hostage is an opportunity to reach goals, it will be used.
From family experience, I know that it already doesn’t take much in that part of the world to be arrested. ( ere is a saying from Soviet times: if there is a person, a case will be found. It’s something similar in meaning to “dig hard enough, and you can nd dirt on anyone” but a bit more fatal and less digging is required. e statement is getting close to being as relevant today as it used to be in the USSR.)
e Russian choice of prisoners to be brought back also sends a message to others in similar positions, encouraging them to keep doing their jobs without worries for their well-being.
If we look at who was exchanged for whom, the potential cost of this exchange becomes even more obvious. Professional Russian agents and potential spies were swapped for a few random Americans and a bunch of political prisoners (a vague and broad category in today’s Russia). It’s nothing new, just bigger than before.
But that means that if Russia (or others) needs to reach some goals, be it getting its agents back, or maybe getting rid of some sanctions, or receiving some kind of technology or equipment, or something else, it can simply detain some foreigners or put a few of its own citizens behind the cells and start negotiations. After all, lives were saved through the August 1 swap, and it’s worth celebrating. But I’m afraid that success puts more lives at risk. And that’s on top of other prices paid for this deal, which will probably remain top secret for the next decades.
| Wednesday, August 7,
SGI: Cost of summer storms continues to climb
Over a month after a powerful storm blasted the Estevan area with large hail and powerful winds, SGI is still working through the claims process.
Jeremy Pilon, a communication consultant with SGI media relations, said the Crown corporation has had approximately 6,500 claims for vehicles related to the storm, and about 650, or roughly 10 per cent, have been written o . “ ese numbers are still very preliminary, as we still have nearly 3,200 vehicles to complete estimates for. As of right now, the estimated cost of damages is $3.9 million.”
As for property claims, the total claims for the Estevan area were at 300. e estimated cost of property
damage is just over $5 million. Province-wide, SGI had nearly 1,000 claims from the event and damages are expected to exceed $20 million.
A July 14 storm in the southeast corner of the province also caused some damage, although not to the extent of the June system. ere have been 18 claims thus far, and the projected total loss is nearly $250,000. SGI has had 202 claims from the July storm, with the majority of them for hail.
“We have seen some claims for sewer backups and lightning damage as well. We do not have a cost estimate for this storm yet.”
e majority of the claims led for the proper-
ty division were for hail or wind damages to residential buildings. While SGI did receive a few claims related to commercial properties, damage to residences was greater.
On the auto side, claims were primarily for hail damage. SGI is not aware of any ooding or wind damage from the Estevan storm of June 23 or the Carndu storm of July 14.
“ e storm activity numbers for June 23rd are signi cant,” said Pilon. “ ere have been larger storms in the last few years – Regina in 2021 being the most notable one – but 7,500 storm claims is still a large storm event.
“ is number of claims in a very localized area can a ect our capacity and re-
Estevan youth pays for hockey with iced tea stand
It started last year as a way for Bentley Wilson to raise funds for the Estevan Humane Society.
But it’s grown into a means for the enterprising Estevan youth to pay for his minor hockey registration each year. is is the second year Bentley, aged 12, has had the Bentley’s Iced Tea stand near Westview School. He has also appeared at the Estevan Farmers’ Market sales.
Bentley said he came up with the idea when he heard of a fundraiser for the humane society. He started with a small table and it grew.
en he raised money for Riley Raynard, who is Bentley’s favourite race car driver at the Estevan Motor Speedway. Raynard raced for a decade at the track despite having Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Bentley has helped other causes as well.
He has also used the sales to pay for his minor hockey and lacrosse registration and equipment. He did so well last year that the iced tea paid for his minor hockey fees in 2023-24, and it’s going to do so again this year.
Bentley has also sold chips, candies and even bracelets that were made by local children for him.
each day at around 10 or 11 a.m. and he’ll remain out there until 6 p.m. People can also support the lemonade stand during the warmer months of the school year on weekends, holidays and during scheduled days o school.
People have been really supportive of his e orts.
“ ey really like what
sponse, and we are working hard to provide responses and estimating services, along with repair shops in this area, as quickly as possible.”
SGI has had three appraisal blitzes in Estevan to work through as many of these claims as quickly as possible. Another one was scheduled for the Saskatchewan Day long weekend in Estevan.
As with any storm, SGI encourages its customers who had damage to le a claim as soon as possible. By dealing with a claim, customers can get in to see an appraiser, adjuster or repair person sooner. is helps people get back on their feet faster and helps prevent further damage to property.
TheJunestormbroughtlargehailtoEstevan. Filephoto
Estevan youth saluted for his heart of gold
Bentley Wilson is gaining praise for reasons beyond his successful iced tea stand.
In a message to the Mercury and SaskToday, Jim McNamara said he was in Estevan recently for a job when Bentley came up to him and o ered him a jug lled with iced tea to help McNamara cool down.
“He’s an entrepreneur who is a genuine, humble, generous, kind-hearted gentleman.”
McNamara went on to say Bentley and his four other siblings are typical
kids, full of energy and life, and with a mother with a heart of gold as well.
“Bentley took his whole family out for supper one night, and he donates money from his business to charities of his choice.”
“I wish there were more kids like Bentley and his family with a heart of gold and a smile that could light up any room.”
If people have a chance to stop by and have a cold glass of iced tea and meet him, McNamara said they would nd out what McNamara’s talking about.
I’m doing, and I’m helping them out by giving them some snacks and drinks while they’re out here supporting me,” said Bentley.
An ambitious young man, he hopes to one day have his own food truck.
When asked if he plans on continuing this in the future, he responded with an emphatic “Heck yeah”.
Midale celebrates love for vehicles with show and shine
Midale’s Main Street was a busy place on Sunday, thanks to dozens of vehicle enthusiasts who brought their rides over for the annual Midale Classy Car Show and Shine.
is year saw 46 exhibitors coming from Assiniboia, Coronach, Lake Alma, Regina, the Estevan area and more.
“We had a good stretch this year, we had a good circumference from all around,” said Scott Stabe-
now, the chairperson of the show and shine committee.
Vehicles ranged from antiques from the 20s and early 30s right to fancy contemporary vehicles.
“We had lots of stu from the 50s and 60s, some work-in-progress projects, but most of them were done.
We had some very beautiful cars, and even from last year we had a lot of di erent cars show,” Stabenow said.
Tim Carlson’s 1966 Ford Fairlane was the winner
DRILLING REPORT
of the Midale Classy Car Show and Shine.
e event found its new home on Main Street last year, and Stabenow said it seems to become their permanent location.
“Main Street seems to be our new place to hold the event. Previously we used to do it up at the school but with the Main Street, it’s just a lot more room and seems to work better for this,” he noted.
Souris Valley Antique Association introduced a people mover this year, which helped bring guests from fairgrounds over across the tracks, and many visitors
omas-K Welding and Fabricating once again supplied the grill for the barbecue, and Stabenow said if they have any proceeds
left after covering expenses, they like to donate to local charities.
Stabenow also thanked everyone involved with the event.
“I just would like to thank everybody that came out. If it wasn’t for those people coming out to have a look there wouldn’t be a car show.”
New name among the changes for Southeast Advocates
By David Willberg
An agency dedicated to helping newcomers, people with barriers to employment and others has changed its name to create some simplicity.
An open house was held July 19 to discuss the name change to Southeast Advocates and introduce some of its new staff members to the community. Previously, it was known as Southeast Advocates for Employment, and had Southeast Newcomer Services, Settlement Workers in Schools and Southeast Transitions all under its umbrella.
Those services will continue to be provided, but under the Southeast Advocates name.
Interim executive director Shannon Fodchuk, who works out of the Weyburn office but is also in Estevan, said the agency represents a lot of different programs that were being portrayed as their own entity.
“We wanted to bring it back as one, and make it just Southeast Advocates with all of the different programs … under one umbrella,” said Fodchuk.
Clients have appreciated the change.
Cali-Marie Mack, who is the co-ordinator of Settlement Workers in Schools, and transition co-ordinator Ojhay Javier are two new faces at Southeast Advocates. They were pleased with the chance to meet the long-time clients and new families. They held a program at the Estevan Public Library on July 24 that also
allowed them to meet new people.
“We’re taking it step by step,” said Javier. “I know we’re new in these roles, so we’re slowly trying to get to know each and every one of our families, and hopefully in the future, there will be many more families and youths and kids that will be joining us in our activities.”
Mack was born and raised in Estevan and used to work at the Estevan Daycare Co-operative, giving her lots of experience working with young people. Javier comes to Estevan from the Philippines, and he brings a variety of professional experiences.
“I love this position. I love everything about it,” said Mack. “I didn’t think,
going into it, that I was going to enjoy it as much as I do, but it’s something within this one month, I could see myself pursuing it for the rest of my life. Getting to know the staff here and the community, all the connections I have made, I just love everything about it.”
Javier added he loves working with the youth.
“As a newcomer, I was given the opportunity to connect with the community,” said Javier. “Because of my job, it gives me the chance to get to know other people, connect and co-ordinate with social groups and different organizations.”
Mack believes the name change fits because they want to help the entire
community. Javier added Southeast Advocates wants people, particularly the kids, to take advantage of the services they provide.
“We’re here to help them feel included in the community … and to take advantage of the services, youth events and all the resources. We just want to make sure they have access to the social group, extracurricular activities and education.”
Southeast Advocates serves the region and has offices in Estevan and Weyburn. Fodchuk said it has hundreds of clients and 14 staff members between its five programs.
“We’re still the same service, open to anyone that needs help,” said Fodchuk.
Estevan fire crews respond to grass fire and more
e Estevan Fire Rescue Service had a busy day July 31 in the midst of a slower week, with four calls coming one after the other. Crews rst were alerted to a residential carbon
monoxide (CO) alarm in the north-central part of the city at about 5 a.m. Fire ghters responded and investigated, but didn’t pick up any CO readings, and a faulty detector was
CRANES & TRUCKING
deemed the cause. At around 11 a.m., reghters were called to a grass re northwest of the city along Highway 39. A small re was occurring in the ditch, said Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies. It was quickly extinguished with no injuries or damage to property reported.
As crews were coming back into the city, they were diverted to a report of a powerline on a truck in the southern part of the city.
“By the time we got over there, SaskPower and the EPS were already on scene. SaskPower had the line shut down and was getting it o the truck to get the operator out. No injuries or serious damage over there,” Davies said.
Just before 9 p.m., the EFRS was also dispatched to a commercial re alarm in the northern part of the city. e investigation showed that no emergency was occurring, and the alarm was due to a pull station activation.
Since it was established in 2019, the Happy Little Hooves sanctuary has been providing care for small animals in need of love.
e sanctuary, located southwest of Estevan, is now home to 43 animals, including ve mules, four donkeys, a goat and 33 miniature horses and ponies. It has been at capacity for about a year, although they would consider bringing in another animal if it was an “absolute, de nite need” in which it was a “life or death” situation, said Laura Stock, who operates the sanctuary with her sister Rhonda.
“ ey are all healthy, happy and doing very well,” said Laura Stock.
Since Happy Little Hooves is a sanctuary, it doesn’t provide adoption services, so the animals that are in their care have found their fur-ever home. If someone contacts the Stocks to see if Happy Little Hooves can take an animal in, Happy Little Hooves would try to nd a home for the little.
“ ey are all animals with special needs, so whether it’s behavioural or medical, they
have some sort of special need that we have to care for and look after,” said Stock.
“Last chance, last stop is what we say,” she added later. A lot of their animals are older and developed issues over time that their previous owners couldn’t care for, so they turned to Happy Little Hooves to provide the life the littles deserve.
Stock said there is a denite need for the services that Happy Little Hooves
provides. Sadly, she said a lot of miniature horses don’t get fed properly, causing them to become fat and develop foot problems. e organization is the only one of its kind in the region.
It would be nice if they could have a second area, Stock said, or if somebody stepped forward to provide similar services and a level of care. She cautioned that running a sanctuary is a lot of work.
Happy Little Hooves held a book sale near the Power Dodge Curling Centre on Saturday and Sunday. Stock said they had a lot of books at home they were willing to sell, and a lot of people donated books.
Money raised through the book sale will go towards repairs at their facilities and preparations for winter. It will also help the Stocks to purchase feed, especially since some of their animals
have lung problems or don’t have teeth, and hay for the winter.
Happy Little Hooves has a sponsorship program for those looking to help out their animals.
“ ey can sponsor a little for a certain amount of money. For $60, they get a little vile of the hair of the little that they choose, and then they get a little certicate, and a picture and a bio.” e sanctuary will have an open house in Sept. 21 at their facility to mark its ve-year anniversary. ere will be demonstrations, tours and a dedication of its new shelter, which was made possible through a donation by the Rotary Club of Estevan.
We have single suites available as well as larger suites to accommodate couples so they can remain together in thecomfor table surroundings of our home. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals and aides arekind and cour teous. We offer all levelsof care so all residents can “Age in Place” and we arecommitted to making each resident feel rightathome.
ySer vices
RhondaandLauraStock
Oxbow’s Bow Valley Jamboree will again showcase a variety of Prairie musical talent
e Bow Valley Jamboree, an annual music and arts festival held at the Bow Valley Park south of Oxbow, is taking place Aug. 10. Gates will open at noon. Since its inception in 2010, the jamboree has welcomed musicians and artists from across Canada, with an emphasis on local Saskatchewan talent. e jamboree is presented by the Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee, whose focus is to bring music and the arts to southeast Saskatchewan and to help promote and provide opportunities for up-andcoming artists.
is year is no di erent, with bands travelling from both Saskatchewan and Manitoba to perform at the festival. Crowds will be entertained with a variety of musical genres, ranging from Celtic to country to classic rock.
Kilted Wind, an Estevan-based band, will start o the day at 1:30 p.m. with their bagpipes and drums music, followed by Teagan Littlechief of the White Bear First Nations and her band at 1:50 p.m. Littlechief has been a jamboree favourite with her voice and spirit. With a multitude of experi-
ences and awards under her belt, Littlechief will captivate the audience.
She was named the Saskatchewan Country Music Association’s Female Artist of the Year and Indigenous Artist of the Year in June.
Following her at 3 p.m. will be En.O.Dee, an upand-coming band hailing from Regina. e group writes and records its own music, and also performs covers.
Returning to the jamboree, with a few extra family members, will be the Walbaums of Forget at 4 p.m. is musical family does it all with harmonies, instrumental abilities and fun. ey provide the sounds of the 90s and blend them with indie folk and country music.
recently-released album We Make You Dance to enjoy their tunes.
A show and shine will be held on Main Street in Oxbow from 9 a.m.-noon the day of the festival, so people are invited to come view the vehicles and stay for the music.
selling products such as jewelry, clay art, hair products, fresh bread and baking, and more, plus local food vendors Get In My Belly, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Fiilipino Cravings and a roast pork dinner made by the Oxbow and District Lions Club.
Manitoba country music award winner Ryan Keown will be on the stage this year, along with his son Austin Ryder, starting at 5:15 p.m. Keown has opened for many famous country acts and his music has reached national charts, while his son often opens for him and plays regularly at the Ranchman’s Country Club in Calgary.
Returning to the jamboree stage at 7 p.m. is festival favourite e Bromantics. With a blend of classic rock, doo-wop and Motown, this crew of men will impress with their four-part harmonies, driving bass lines and energy. Look for their
Following on the Bromantics’ heels is rock and country cover band e Uncoolas, starting at 9 p.m. With members from both Men Without Shame and e New Montagues, audience members will enjoy the high-energy dance music. Closing out the jamboree at 10:30 p.m. will be recently reunited southeast band Six Days ‘Til Sunday. After almost a decade since last performing at the jamboree, this young crew is ready to play well into the night. Performing covers of everything from rock to country, this group will have everyone dancing, singing and enjoying the party.
In addition to music, the jamboree boasts artisans
An addition to the jamboree this year is a limited-edition T-shirt designed by local artist James Allen. e shirts will only be available for sale at the jamboree.
With entertaining children’s activities, a sel e wall o ering an opportunity to win a yeti cooler, an artist’s tent featuring local talent and a beer garden, there is something for everyone. A people mover provided by the Shriners will assist those needing a bit of help with mobility.
“It really is one of the best festivals in the province, nominated for Festival of the Year by the Saskatchewan Country Music Association and Venue or Festival of the Year by the Saskatchewan Music Association,” the Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee said in a news release.
“Oxbow and area is a community bursting with musical and artistic talent of all forms. e Bow Valley Jamboree presents an opportunity to showcase this local talent and potentially inspire up-and-coming artists. e jamboree brings new people to the community to enjoy the beauty and opportunities in the area, and lls a void in the area for arts and cultural events. Instead of having to drive to enjoy the arts, we bring the arts to you.”
For more information about the jamboree or the Oxbow Arts and Culture, visit bowvalleyjamboree.org, or its Facebook or Instagram pages.
CLASSIFIEDS
August 6 2023 To
Ronald George Jickling
Ronald George Jickling bor n on August 31 1945 in Kindersley SK passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Regina, SK on Monday July 29 2024 just shor tly before his 79th bir thday after a shor t battle with cancer He was a devoted husband father, grandfather, stepfather, uncle, brother and fr iend who touched the lives of many Ron was the beloved son of Lor na (née Swan) and George Jickling He grew up in Stranraer SK and spent his summers helping out on his uncle George Swan's far m He pursued his education at the Saskatchewan Technology Institute (STI) training as an Engineer ing Technologist Ron dedicated over three decades of his wor king career to SaskPower wor king in management at the Estevan Generating Station and Boundar y Dam Power Station in Estevan, SK, where he was known for his integr it y leadership fair ness and wor k ethic Following his retirement from SaskPower in 1997, he joined Lloydminster Maintenance Ltd where he spent a decade applying his exper tise and exper ience to the maintenance of SaskPower ’s coal-fired power plants Ron was for tunate to have loved and marr ied t wo wonderful women in his life He was first marr ied to the car ing, joyful and fun, Judy Jickling (née Rouse) in Apr il 1969 Together, they had three children and made their home in Estevan, Saskatchewan, raising their family with love, humour, joy and care Judy passed away in Januar y 2003 In 2006 Ron met Jean nette Huel who brought much love laughter travel and fun back into his life and they were marr ied July 2008 Jeannette Jickling was the mother of his stepchildren Dion Huel and Chantel Huel Jeannette passed away in March 2019 He was predeceased by his parents George and Lor na Jickling; brother John Jickling; brother-in-law Mar vin Nunweiler and sister-in-law Ann Jickling Ron is sur vived and deeply missed by his three children Jeff Jickling (Jayne Kr ueger) and their children Matthew and Mya; Debbie Dunbar (Darr yl) and their children Aver y Reid and Rachel; Wes Jickling (Shelley) and their children Isabela, Oliver and Juliet He is also remembered and loved by his stepchildren Dion Huel (Rebecca); Chantel Huel and her children Chelsey (Nevaeh, Jazmyne, Mar ia, Matthias, Denny), Keyan and Kohle Ron also leaves behind his dear sister Sheila Nunweiler, and numerous nieces and nephews Ron was a man of many talents and interests many of which he mastered He was highly skilled at woodwor king making birdhouses fur niture bird car vings go-kar ts and much else throughout his life He could build and fix all things electr ical plumbing mechanical and automotive quickly and intuitively Ron exper tly restored and repaired the family VW Beetle multiple times over 30 years He dabbled in photography stamp collecting genealogy and many other pursuits Ron also enjoyed spending time meticulously maintaining a gorgeous yard He was tr uly an ear ly adopter of new technology throughout his life always one of the first to have a home computer VHS video camera, iPad, Apple Watch or a Tesla He took up the violin later in life, lear ning and practicing intensively He enjoyed making fr iends having 'jam sessions' and perfor ming with musical groups in Regina, including the Her itage Fiddlers and the Fr iendly Folk Ron gave much of his time to volunteer ing and public ser vice during his years living in Estevan as a Boy Scout leader and a member and chair of the local school board for many years Throughout his life, he loved a project and was always quick to lend a helping hand to family fr iends and neighbours Ron had a keen sense of adventure, explor ing and going off the beaten track in many par ts of the wor ld His travels took him throughout Canada and the US Mexico Cuba Brazil Scotland Eswatini South Afr ica Ukraine Poland and Israel Ron was deeply committed to his faith throughout his life walking the path of a devout Chr istian His spir itual home was the Gr uenthal Church in Saskatchewan, where he was a dedicated member and found great solace and communit y Family and fr iends remember Ron as a man full of life, laughter, and wisdom His legacy of love, dedication, integr it y and a profound commitment to his faith will continue to inspire those who knew him A Celebration of Ron’s Life was held on Fr iday August 2 2024 at 2:00 p m at Gr uenthal Church in Gr uenthal SK In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in his memor y to the Palliative Care ward at the Pasqua Hospital c/o Hospitals of Regina Foundation Suite 225, 1874 Scar th Street, Regina, SK S4P 4B3 https://hrf akaraisin com/ui/HRFDonation/donations/star t Ronald George Jickling’s memor y will forever be cher ished by his
grandchildren stepchildren nieces nephews and all who had the pleasure of knowing him He will be dear ly missed Family and fr iends are invited to leave tr ibutes at www reginafuneralhome ca Arrangements entr usted to Regina Funeral Home and Cemeter y (306) 789-8850
Erwin Krueger
On Saturday July 13 2024 Erwin Kr ueger, of Calgar y, AB (for mer ly of Okotoks AB and Estevan SK) passed away in hospital Erwin is sur vived by his wife Nor ma Jensen her daughter Chantel (Neil) Wiens and children Tian, Tate and Br ittany, and Erwin s children Michelle (Br ian Baker) Patr ice (Jay Willimott) Paul Rober t (Elena) and Jason (Stephanie) and eighteen grandchildren: Ajaccia Kaleah Callan Jane Jared, Brandon, Hailey, Mar ta Kat ya Ivan Anya Sophia, Isabella, Max, Tobias, Xavier, Kater i, and Isaiah
A funeral Mass will be held at St James Catholic Church, 338060 32nd Street East, Okotoks, AB, on Monday, August 12 at 10:30 a m with a luncheon to follow
A full obituar y will follow on www snodgrassfuneralhomes com
Family and fr iends are invited to that website to leave online condolences
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of communit y newspapers! Visit www swna com or call 306649-1405 to find out how! PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS 49 local communit y newspapers distr ibuting to over 450 communities, including 14 cities Reach over 550,000 readers weekly Call 306-
Estevan youth arrested in connection with vehicle theft
A 16-year-old Estevan youth has been arrested for stealing a vehicle.
According to the police report for July 30, the Estevan Police Service received information about a stolen vehicle that was reportedly seen at the Boundary Dam campground area. The RCMP was alerted and assisted the EPS in locating and arresting a 16-year-old female from Estevan. She was charged and later released. The vehicle was returned to the registered owners.
In other recent police news, a traffic enforcement initiative was conducted in and around the city on July 30, focusing on concerns related to speeding, intersections and more. Six violation tickets and several warnings were served.
Members were dispatched to a central Estevan store for a report of someone consuming marijuana in a vehicle. Members attended, but were unable to locate the vehicle. The public is reminded that it is illegal to consume cannabis in a vehicle.
Police were asked to carry out a well-being check on children who were with their moth-
er. The children’s father made the request. The kids were found to be fine and in good health. Members mediated between both parties regarding ongoing custodial and visitation matters.
Members attended to St. Joseph’s Hospital July 29 regarding a man who had become unco-operative. He had calmed down prior to police arriving. No further issues were reported. Police received a report of a woman causing a disturbance outside a business on 13th Avenue. Members attended, and the woman was spoken to and placed in a cab.
On Aug. 1, EPS members arrested a 39-year-old man for breaching his curfew conditions. He was released and will appear in court at a later date to speak to his charge.
Members conducted a wellness check where it was reported that the person was going through some tough times. Police and Crisis Team (PACT) also attended and services were provided.
Members responded to a local hotel where it was reported that they could not wake up the tenant in the room and they were concerned for her safety.
Members finally made contact with the woman, and she was ok.
Members assisted with checking on a resident as it was reported that his electronic monitoring device was not working properly. Members attended and the matter was resolved.
EPS members conducted a traffic stop with a vehicle where the driver was found to be impaired on Aug. 2. A 19-year-old female from Estevan was arrested and transported to the police station where she provided two samples of breath. She was lodged in cells for the night and was released with charges of impaired driving. She will appear in court at a later date.
Police also received a report of fraud regarding a life insurance claim. Statements were obtained and the matter is under investigation.
Members attended to St Joseph’s Hospital to a report of a woman causing a disturbance. The 37-year-old female from Birch Hills was arrested for assaulting a police officer and transported to cells, where she was lodged for the night.
Police received two separate reports of fraud. Members are still waiting on some statements, but those matters remain under investigation.
Police received a report of a gas drive-off on Aug. 3. Members attended and reviewed video footage. The matter is under investigation.
Police were dispatched to a report of a break and enter at a business in the industrial area. The EPS Forensic Ident Unit attended and processed the scene, and the matter remains under investigation.
Woodlawn Classic decided in six-hole playoff SPORTS
e annual FrameTech Classic at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course needed six playo holes before a winner was decided.
Mitchell Matichuk defeated defending champion Jace Carlisle in the extra-time competition to win the men’s division at the tournament, held from Saturday to Monday.
e two golfers were tied after three rounds with scores of 1-under-par 215, one shot ahead of Shawn McNall and Dallas Lequyer, who each shot an even-par 216. Carlisle eagled the par-5 18th hole to eliminate a two-stroke de cit and force the playo . e two golfers then went stroke for stroke until Matichuk had a better score on the sixth playo hole.
Matichuk opened the tournament by shooting a 1-over-par 73 in the rst round. He took the lead in
the second round by ring a 2-under-par 70, highlighted by a sensational nish in which he birdied holes 13-16 and 18 on his way to a 31 on the back nine. en he had a 72 in the third and nal round, including a birdie on the 10th and 11th holes.
Matichuk, who has golfed out of Regina, has been a regular at the classic in recent years.
Carlisle shot a 70 in the rst round, a 73 in the second and a 72 in the third.
Nolan Rohatyn, who won the Dave Price Memorial Horse Race, had the top score in the rst round with a 67.
Other ight winners were: Daryl Donovan, rst ight, 221; Darien Herlick, second, 226; Reegan Robinson, third, 237; Dylan Lay, fourth, 237; Brad Wilhelm, fth, 255; and Travis Kuntz, sixth, 277. Rick Hallberg was once again the victor in the senior men’s competition,
nishing with a threeround total of 7-under-par 209 (69-69-71). Hallberg, who hails from Weyburn, was the only golfer to record an under-par round in the senior division. He was 24 strokes ahead of Tony Heath, who nished at 233.
James Gordon and Dean Lequyer were tied for third at 236.
Dean Harcourt won the rst ight with a 242 and Howard Hilstrom was second with a 263.
Paige Wheeler won the women’s division for the third straight year, winding
up with a two-round total of 167. She recorded an 80 in the rst round and an 87 in the second.
Wheeler had an 11-stroke lead after the opening round over Joyce Kuchinka, who had the best score on Aug. 3 with an 84. Kuchinka nished
Nolan Rohatyn wins sixth Horse Race title
Nolan Rohatyn made history with his victory in the Dave Price Memorial Horse Race Sunday afternoon at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course.
Rohatyn defeated Jace Carlisle on the nal hole to win the annual event for the sixth time, tying the late Parnell Pidhorny for the most victories in the horse race. Hundreds of people gathered to watch the competition, which is a beloved component of the annual FrameTech Classic at Woodlawn.
e horse race began Sunday afternoon and continued well into the evening. Each year, it features the 12 golfers who are part of the men’s championship ight in Woodlawn’s FrameTech Classic.
Joining Rohatyn and Carlisle were Drew Kocur, Ryan Stovin, David Buttner, Shawn Menall, Dallas Lequyer, Dustin Fair, Chase Gedak, Mark Spencer, Tyler Mryglod and Mitchell Matichuk.
e two golfers with the highest scores on each of the rst two holes were eliminated, leaving eight golfers. en the player with the highest score on each of the next seven holes was also knocked out, leaving only remaining.
It’s the largest spectator event at Woodlawn each year.
e Horse Race is held annually in memory of Price, who died in 2015. He was an avid golfer and a big supporter of the horse race and the classic.
second overall at 175, eight strokes behind Wheeler. Tenille Wilhelm was third with a 186 and Becca Fedyk was fourth at 188.
A total of 124 entries were received between the men’s, senior men’s and women’s competitions this year.
Brewers win silver at 13U AAA provincials
e Estevan 13U AAA Brewers came home from the Baseball Saskatchewan Tier 2 provincials in Lumsden with a silver medal.
Estevan lost 23-16 in the nal to the Weyburn Beavers. e Brewers held a 16-3 lead in the fth inning, but Weyburn scored four in the fth to avoid the mercy rule being invoked, and added 16 in the sixth.
Tayson Tangjerd and Joseph Hozjan each had three hits for Estevan. Starting pitcher Nash Cameron allowed three runs over 4 2/3 innings.
Estevan opened the tournament with a 17-3 victory over the Saskatoon A’s on Friday. Tytan Romanow went 3-for-4 with four RBIs, and Tangjerd also went 3-for-4.
Tangjerd also started on the mound, allowing two hits and one run over 3 1/3 innings, while striking out nine.
Up next was a 14-13, walk-o win over the host Lumsden Cubs. e Brewers were down 13-11 in the bottom of the seventh inning when Hozjan hit a
three-run home run. He nished with two hits and four RBIs during the game, which had several lead changes.
Estevan wrapped up the round robin with a 17-16 victory over Weyburn. e Beavers scored six times in the bottom of the seventh and nal inning to make the game interesting.
Tangjerd had three hits, including a two-run home run, and four RBIs, while Hozjan had four hits in ve at bats. Romanow gave up two runs in 3 1/3 innings.
Estevan nished the game with 22 hits.
e Brewers rallied from a four-run de cit to defeat the White Butte Broncos 11-8 in the semi nal. Estevan took the lead for good with three in the fth.
Tangjerd pitched 4 1/3 innings of relief for the Brewers, allowing three runs while striking out 13.
Kersey Willis had three RBIs, and Cameron went 3-for-4 at the plate.
•••
e Southeast U18
AAA Twins didn’t make the playo s in the Saskatchewan Premier Base-
ball League, but they still had a good season, nishing the campaign with a 17-15 record in league play, leaving them in a tie for eighth with the Regina Athletics, but the A’s made the playo s on a tie-breaker.
e league had a lot of
PhotosourcedfromtheU13Brewers’Facebookpage
parity this season, as the third and 10th place teams were separated by four wins.
e Twins made a strong push for the playo s, winning their last ve games and six of their last eight.
Daxtyn Brown led the team with 28 runs batted in
and 20 stolen bases, while Sam Mallory had 25 RBIs.
Conner Kerr was tops for batting average at .400, and also led the team in runs with 41 and home runs with two. Chase Himmelspach nished with a .354 average.
Keaton Husband had a strong season on the mound, leading the Twins for innings pitched (65 2/3), games started (11), wins (six) and strikeouts (45). He also had a 2.985 earned-run average. Kerr was the only other pitcher with more than two wins, nishing with four.
Bull riders from four countries entertain spectators during Bull Bash in Midale
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Twenty bull riders showcased their skills for a large crowd as part of the annual Bull Bash and Cabaret Friday night in Midale.
“We had a great turnout. It was a packed house with no seating left available,” said Adam Carlson, president of the Midale Rodeo Committee. “ ere were lots of people standing, and we had a full entry of riders in the bull riding event and lots of really good stock, really good competitors from all over and they put on a great show.”
Bull Riders Canada sanctioned the event, which attracted riders from Canada, the U.S., Brazil and Australia this year.
A lot of talented athletes from Saskatchewan were entered, including Aaron Roy of Yellow Grass, who has competed at top bull-riding events in North America and came out the champion this time. Kaden Piper from Stoughton, the Ozirney brothers from Grenfell and Cole Troend-
le, formerly of Midale and now residing in Tisdale, also participated.
Roy nished rst in the long round by staying on the bull for eight seconds and earning a score of 84.5. Cole Hartman of Lancer, Sask., was second at 84 and Alison Trindade of Ariquemes, Brazil, was third at 83.5. Jaden Ozirney of Grenfell (83), Trinity Bear of Whitewood (82), and Toby Adams of Mendooran, Australia, (81) also held on successfully.
Roy won $800 for nishing rst. ree riders also received points in the Bud Light Championship round, with Roy coming out rst with a score of 88 and another $1,950 in prize money; and Trindade and Kahl Wasilow of Maple Creek nished second with a score of 82.5 and $1,275 in prize money each.
e bulls had a great showing on the weekend, too, Carlson noted.
Following the bull-riding event, the festivities continued with a cabaret
featuring the band Crossroads.
e weekend’s activities also included wild pony racing, a ranch rodeo with mutton busting, and a performance by the Truco Trick Riders, local superstars from the southeast corner of the province on Saturday.
“We had 30 kids participate in the mutton busting, and they all walked away with a bucket of toys and goodies, as well as a shirt saying they competed in the 2024 Bull Bash and Cabaret,” Carson added.
In the ranch rodeo, the Wicked Cattle Company team (Jim Wickenheiser, James Mcdonal, and Kevin and Zane King) came in rst; SSSS Ranches (Kaylee and Eric Buyer, Chad Carlson and Hayden Bigney) was second; and Coal elds Posse (Dom Sellick, Layne Smith, Clint Radke and Trevor Gordon) ended up being third.
Sunday also saw barrel racing and team roping events.
Carlson said the rodeo committee continues to
Club promotes arm wrestling at open house
Estevan Southern Impact Armwrestling hosted an open house, practice and barbecue on Saturday afternoon at Flawless Sales and Services.
Desiree Da Silva said they had 50-60 people in attendance, with people from throughout southeast Saskatchewan and even Montana participating. Most of those present were members of the Saskatchewan Armwrestling Association, and the others were individuals with an interest in the sport. Some have already committed to attending a future practice.
“It was just so everybody could get to know each other, and then Estevan could host a practice … so that people in Estevan could get to know more about arm wrestling, and we could have a bigger club here,” said Da Silva.
ere was a competition at the end of the day with King and Queen of the Table matches. Da Silva described it as a friendly competition without categories for weight or size. Separate divisions were o ered for men’s and women’s left-handed and right-handed competitors.
“You come up to the table and you stay there until you lose, and whoever wins against everybody at this round-about table wins money,” said Da Silva. It was a $10 buy-in. Half of the money went to the winner, and the other half went to the club, which is fundraising to purchase another armwrestling table. e cost is $400-$800. Solomon Latimer of Qu’Appelle won both men’s events and Annae Ritter of Moose Jaw won the women’s divisions.
George Iszakouits, who is known in the sport as Crazy George, made a special appearance in Estevan and accepted challenges from the public. Da Silva noted Iszakouits is in his mid-70s but still competes, travelling across Canada to attend as many events as possible. He came from London, Ont., to be in Estevan.
“George has accomplished lots,” said Da Silva. “He’s been world champion. He’s been a national champion. He’s pulled in many di erent armwrestling leagues, and won championships at that.”
make e orts to improve the rodeo grounds. ey recently had a building sponsored that they are sharing with the local antique association, and continue to improve the facility.
“We’re looking to expand our facilities, add more shaded seating … and possibly get a generator for power. … We accomplished some big projects this year, like putting up permanent lights around the arena,” he said.
Events like Midale Bull Bash and Cabaret and grounds improvements wouldn’t be possible without sponsors and local support, Carlson said.
“We’re really grateful for all of our sponsors, because it de nitely wouldn’t be possible without that. We are also thankful for the support from the fan
base, the surrounding communities for coming to our events,” he added.
“And hopefully one day when we get everything pretty close to being nalized, we can start putting some money back into the surrounding communities that helped us.”
ere is a high school rodeo coming back on the rst weekend of September, Carlson mentioned, and the association is also
JOB SUMMARY
exploring the possibility of hosting more events throughout the year like barrel racing and additional rodeo events.
“Hopefully, one day our goal is to have a rodeo group in our schools so that it can be part of the educational system,” Carlson said.
For more details on upcoming events, visit the Midale Rodeo Association’s Facebook page.
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Executive Director to lead our organization towards continued growth and success. The Executive Director is accountable to the Board of Directors, providing executive leadership to the Estevan Chamber of Commerce The role involves offering direction to achieve the Chamber’s mission and objectives, acting as a liaison among members, the Board, staff, volunteers, government, and partners
RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and implement objectives to advance the organization's mission and objectives based on the organizations strategic plan
Oversee day-to-day operations and provide leadership to staff members
Lead business development initiatives to drive growth and sustainability
Build and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders, including members, board directors, other chambers, The City of Estevan, and neighboring RM's Drive process improvement efforts to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
activities were also held during the day.
Da Silva invites the public to attend the club’s practices every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Flawless Sales and Services.
Manage budgets, financial planning, and ensure fiscal responsibility
Represent the organization in external relations, partnerships, and collaborations
Provide strong leadership by setting a positive example for staff and promoting a culture of excellence
Serve as the principal spokesperson and ambassador for the Chamber at business and community events
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Advocate for the Chamber at provincial events, provide letters of support, and understand current issues to advance the city's economic welfare
Lead economic development initiatives
Any additional duties as assigned by the board of directors
REQUIREMENTS
University degree in business administration, communications, marketing, or economic development, or relevant work experience
Experience with business associations, economic development offices or nonprofit organizations is an asset
Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams
Excellent project management abilities with a focus on achieving goals and objectives
Demonstrated expertise in business development strategies and implementation
Strategic thinker with the ability to drive innovation and change initiatives
Ability to prepare and manage budgets, analyze organizational performance and project financial performance
Strong public speaking, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
Apply by sending your resume to chamberestevan@gmail.com
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $65,000.00 - $85,000.00
South East Military Museum hosts Fun Days in the Country at its rural location
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
e South East Military Museum invited the community to its rst Fun Days in the Country event on Aug. 3-4. e museum, located on an acreage north of Estevan, o ers a weekend lled with history, activities and family-friendly fun.
Craig Bird, the founder, president and curator of the museum, took guests on tours of the part of the artifacts collection, preserving the military history of the region and beyond, through stories of people who served in two world wars and other military operations. e other part of the museum’s collection is on display at the Royal Canadian Legion’s Estevan branch.
Attendees were treated
to a blend of educational and entertaining experiences designed to engage both history enthusiasts and families looking for a fun day out, as the rst-of-its-kind event also saw a big garage sale, a barbecue, bake sale, scavenger hunt and other activities for kids and families. All proceeds from the event go towards the museum’s operations.
Bird, who has been collecting military memorabilia for 35 years, founded the museum in 2019. His extensive collection also includes donations from the local legion and community members.
“Since we’ve opened up, we’ve had donations from a number of people. We also took over the legion’s collection of memorabilia so it would be looked after
Some community members with a keen interest in military history and personal connections have also been helping Bird with different events supporting the museum.
According to the museum’s website, it was opened with the primary intent of educating the youth in the southeast about local military history and contributions. e secondary intent is to preserve, record and educate people on military history and stories of all those who have served from this area and throughout Saskatchewan, and teach Canadian military history in general.
e museum displays a wide range of pieces of military history, from the First World War to more recent con icts. Bird takes pride in the unique artifacts and stories housed at the museum.
“We try to keep the history of this area alive. …
ere’s some neat stu here that I don’t know if there’s any other place that has it,” he noted.
One of the unique pieces on display is a working night vision monocular from the Second World War that Bird acquired from a man in the U.K.
time was fairly new. And it was so ultra top secret that I’ve never ever found a manual for it. It’s only ever been mentioned in a couple of special forces history books. ey call it a tabby sight. It was sealed because it had a 70,000-volt battery, and once the battery ran out, it was destroyed. So not a lot of them survive,” Bird explained during the museum tour.
“ is one happened to go into a collector’s hand over in the U.K. He put it up for sale about 20-25 years ago. I managed to purchase it and bring it over here. And then he says, ‘Hey, I made mine
work. Would you be interested in knowing how?’”
Bird was able to cut the piece open and make it work again, which is absolutely rare when it comes to this kind of device.
e collection also includes uniforms, weapons and ammunition, pictures and many other military artifacts.
e South East Military Museum’s Fun Days in the Country o ered a unique opportunity to explore military history in a community-oriented setting.
“At the end of the day, we are doing our best to raise awareness for the museum.
Mayor’sMessage
NOTICE OF PUBLICHEARING BYLAW2024-2085
TheCouncil of theCityofEstevan,pursuantto Section207 of the Planning and DevelopmentAct,2007, givesnoticeofits intentiontoamend Zoning Bylaw#2022-2061 to facilitate thedevelopmentofa day carefacility on 1505-1509 WellockRoad(Lot1A-3A,Block 139, Plan 102371060) Thelandiscurrently zonedtoResidential(R1)Districtwhich doesnot allowfor aday carefacility Amending thezoning to Medical Services (C5) District will allowfor aday carefacility andbecompatible with businessesand services offeredinthe nearby West EstevanMalland St.Joseph’sHospital. Theamending Bylaw 2024-2085 maybe inspected by anypersonatthe Legislative Services Business Division, City Hall, 1102 4th Street,Estevan,Saskatchewan, between the hoursof8:00am-4:30pm MondaytoFridayor through contact to Land DevelopmentServices at landdevelopment@estevan.ca 306-634-1821.
City Council, at it’s meetingtobeheldon Monday, August 19, 2024,at 6:00pm in Council Chambers City Hall 1102 Fourth Street,Estevan,Saskatchewan will hear any person(s) wishingtobeheardwith respect to theproposed rezoning bylaw andwillfurther consider anywrittensubmissions respectingthe proposed zoningamendment,providedsuchintentions and/or submissions arereceivedbythe City Clerk’sOffice, LegislativeServices,City Hall, 1102 Fourth Street,Estevan,Saskatchewan, S4A0W7 no later than 12:00 pm on Tuesday, AUG US T13, 2024.
[With this event we are trying] to get people out and let people know that one, we’re out there, and two, we’re doing something to commemorate these guys and women that were involved and are not forgotten,” Bird said. e Fun Days in the Country at the South East Military Museum o ered a great experience for those interested in military history or were simply looking for an engaging weekend activity. For details on how to nd the museum’s out-of-town location and more information about its collection and activities, visit their website at semm.ca
CONSTRUCTION BULLETIN
TheCity of Estevanisundertaking constructionfor the Watermain replacement. Theaffected area includes Firststreet betweenSourisAvenue andeighth Avenue as well as 8th avenue between Firststreetand ValleyStreet.
This work will commence May 27,2024 and will takeapproximately eight (8) weeks to complete (subject to weather)
CityofEstevan will perform this work within the current Bylawregulations and specifications.
Safety
Construction sitecould be dangerous. If youhavechildren, please ask them to keep asafedistancefromthe site. We will takeevery precautiontoensurepublic safety butweneed your assistancetoconstrain the natural curiosity of younger children
Please DO NOTattempttogoclosetoareas affected.
Theft or Vandalism
If yousee anyact of vandalism, theft or anyone suspiciously tampering with equipment, signageorbarricades, please contact 306-634-1800, or afterhours call Police.
Questions andConcerns
TheCity of Estevan, EngineeringServices apologizefor anyinconveniences that this work maycause
Thankyou in advancefor your cooperationand patience. If youhaveany question or concerns, pleasecallat634-1800orapproach the supervisororforemanonsite.
POLICECONSTABLE
TheEstevan PoliceServiceisseekingapplications for the position of Police Constable. TheEstevan PoliceServiceoffers acompetitivesalary andbenefitspackage ongoing professional development, and arange of careeropportunities. Currently serving andtrained Canadian policeofficers areencouraged to apply
All candidates must possess minimumqualifications, including the following:
•18years of age
•Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent
•Excellent physical condition and health with no medical conditions thatwould prohibit your ability to safely completerecruit training and perform all aspects of policework
•Canadian citizen, landed immigrant, or have apermanent residencyatthe time of application
•Valid driver’slicense (unrestricted foraminimum of one year)and good driving record
•Good moral character
•Exemplary employment record Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
•Computer skills
Formoreinformation on the requirements, selection process, and the application package,please visit our website,www.estevanpolice.ca (Employment Opportunities). Afully completed PersonalDisclosureForm mustaccompanyeach application. Please submitcompleted packages, including an up-to-dateresume,inasealed envelope to: Chief of Police Estevan Police Service 301-11th Ave. Estevan, Sask.
