Sernick running for mayor. Coun. Tony Sernick files nomination papers for top job.
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Commemorating history.
100th anniversary of historic flight that started in Estevan.
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Helping others with their fight. Marking Breast Cancer Month with a special event.
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Shining the Lights.
Roche Percee hosts special ceremony at famed rock formation.
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Off to a great start. Estevan U18 AAA Bears sweep Tisdale.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2024
Participatinginsod-turningforthenewnursinghomeinEstevanwere,fromleft,MarnellEagles,RMofCymri; TaniaAndrist,newnursinghomecommitteemember;GregoryDukart,RMofBenson;EstevanMLALoriCarr; MargueriteGallaway,originalnewnursinghomecommitteemember,ShellyVeroba,CityofEstevan councillor;JimPratt,originalnewnursinghomecommitteemember;DonKindopp,newnursing homecommitteechairmanandoriginalmember;RichardTessier,RMofCoalfields; andKevinDaoust,RMofEstevan.PhotobyAnastasiiaBykhovskaia
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Estevan’s long-standing goal of a new regional nursing home came one step closer to reality on Sept. 27, as about 60 community leaders, government o cials and residents gathered for a sod-turning ceremony at the site of the future long-term care home.
e ceremony, held on land across Sister Roddy Road from St. Joseph’s Hospital grounds, marked a major milestone in the project that promises to enhance elder care in the region.
e new facility, designed to meet the growing needs of Estevan and surrounding areas, will replace the current Estevan Regional Nursing Home, which has served the community for decades but has struggled with aging infrastructure for a while.
e project will bring 129 long-term care beds in addition to the existing 38 at St. Joseph’s Hospital’s long-term care.
Milestone for the community
Estevan MLA Lori Carr, who hosted the event, called the sod-turning a critical step forward in a long and challenging journey.
“ is is a milestone for our community and a really, really important one,” she said, noting the years of effort put into advancing the project. “As MLA, it is an incredible honour to join you all and celebrate this important milestone for the Estevan Long-Term Care Home. e home will include 129 long-term care beds, which is an increase of 59 beds. By adding the additional beds, we are creating spaces that will enhance the quality of lives, providing essential services and community growth.”
Carr highlighted the signi cance of the project in keeping families connected, emphasizing that the additional beds will allow more residents to remain in their hometowns.
“ is proximity allows families to remain connected and involved in their loved one’s care, which is crucial for maintaining emotional support and quality of life for all the residents,” she said. Carr also spoke about the thoughtful planning behind the location, chosen for its accessibility and ability to accommodate future expansion. Carr also took time to recognize the Estevan New Regional Nursing Home Committee, singling out original committee members Mar-
guerite Gallaway, Jim Pratt and Don Kindopp, who were present at the event, for their relentless advocacy.
“Project built with bricks of faith” Kindopp, chairman of the new nursing home committee, was deeply moved as he addressed the audience, re ecting on the years of work that had led to this pivotal moment.
“It’s like looking in a rear-view mirror. ere’s lots behind us, but we have to look forward,” he said, describing the project as a “milestone” on a long journey that began in 2006.
Kindopp detailed the early fundraising e orts that helped lay the foundation for the new facility, recalling how the community rallied together in unique and creative ways. From planting and harvesting canola to a very young girl making and selling charm bracelets, to ra ing handmade quilts, to assigning the project as the bene ciary of estates, the community’s dedication never wavered.
“In May of 2011, the Hearthstone Community Campaign was launched to raise the required 20 per cent of the cost of construction. ree and a half years later, the generosity, the faith, the caring of our
community of citizens, our local businesses and our municipal governments allowed us to reach our goal,” Kindopp said.
“I am very thankful for all that makes up our communities and for the generosity, the leadership, both civic and municipal, and the support from all of you. And now, with this sod-turning ceremony, our project moves forth.”
Acknowledging that there are still hurdles to overcome, Kindopp spoke candidly about the need for additional fundraising, especially with in ation and the scope of the project nearly doubling, as the initial plan assumed 70 beds.
e expansion will require more nancial support from both the government and the community. However, he remains hopeful, urging a collaborative approach to reduce costs.
“Why reinvent the wheel? ere are many facilities like this being built in other provinces. We can bring those plans here to Estevan and build more efciently,” he suggested.
Despite the challenges, Kindopp celebrated the moment, calling the project one “built with the bricks of faith, the mortar of love, and the steel girth of caring.
Coun. Tony Sernick was the rst person to le nomination papers to be the next mayor of Estevan.
Sernick, who is wrapping up his rst term as a councillor on Estevan city council, led the required documents on Sept. 25, the second day that forms were being accepted for the Nov. 13 civic election. He then publicly announced the move in a social media post that day. Nobody else had led as of Friday afternoon.
Sernick said he decided to run for mayor because someone else has run for mayor previously, and he wants to pay it forward by doing the same. He credited outgoing Mayor Roy Ludwig – who is not seeking re-election after 12 years in the role and 30 years on council – and anyone else who has let their name stand previously.
He noted that when he rst ran for council in 2020, people in the community seemed to have a “bad attitude”, waiting for the city to fade away because of the phaseout of conventional coal- red electricity.
“I didn’t like the messaging, I didn’t like the leadership that I was seeing in 2020, so that’s why I got involved in 2020,” Sernick said in an interview with the Mercury and SaskToday. “A lot of things have happened in the past four years, and that’s why I want to continue down a path of making our city a better place.”
e past four years have been a learning
Coun.TonySernickisofficiallyin theEstevanmayoralrace. PhotocourtesyofTonySernick
experience, he said. Becoming the mayor would be like becoming a councillor in some ways; there would be a lot of new things to learn and he would have to do a lot of listening, especially in the rst year.
“ e second year, you get a little more comfortable,” said Sernick. “In the third
year, we can see where things go, and just ramp things up in the third and fourth years. ere was lots of stu happening.”
e biggest thing he has learned is the city is in a much better place than he thought in terms of the budget and the improvements that have been made. He believes the city is being well run.
Sernick rst contemplated running for mayor a few years ago, but he really started to think about it last year.
“When I started the journey [on council], I didn’t really have the mayor’s chair in sight, but in the past couple of years, everywhere I go, there’s support,” said Sernick. “People are asking ‘Are you going to run for mayor’ or [they’re saying] ‘I hope you run for mayor’, so that … de nitely got the ball rolling and kept it going.”
When Ludwig announced last December that he wouldn’t seek re-election, Sernick said he knew he would let his name stand.
He said he is going to base everything on four planks: professionalism, leadership, business development and continuous improvement.
“Basically, what I have learned the last four years is everything really revolves around those four things. Professionalism, there was a lot of situations where I thought to myself ‘Is this for real’? I didn’t really agree with what was going on, so in that
sense, plain and simple, we’re going to be nice to people, we’re going to be respectful and we’re going to build relationships,” said Sernick.
In terms of leadership, Sernick said he wouldn’t be a vocal leader. Rather, he would listen and he would share his expertise when possible.
Sernick hopes Estevan can be better solidi ed on the business development front at the end of the upcoming term.
“On the ec-dev side of things, there are a few good seeds planted for the future of our city, and I just want to be able to get involved and share my expertise and help try to bring some of these projects to life,” said Sernick.
As for continuous improvement, there are bigger projects that are coming or are being discussed that he said would attract people and attention to the community.
Regardless of who is elected, Sernick said there would be a culture change in the city with a new mayor.
He expects at least one other person will oppose him.
Sernick said he has some people in place for the campaign and a lot of individuals have expressed their support, and he described it as “overwhelming”. He expects the work will ramp up after the deadline for nominations Oct. 9, and will continue until election day.
Four candidates have led nomination papers to be part of Estevan city council for the Nov. 13 civic election.
As of Friday afternoon, there were three people vying for councillor. Incumbent Coun. Shelly Veroba has been joined in the eld by former councillor Brian Johnson and newcomer Robin Wog. Six councillors will be elected.
A future edition of the Mercury will have pro les on the candidates for councillor.
Coun. Tony Sernick is the only person to le papers for mayor.
School board trustees will also be decided during the election. Incumbent trustee Kevin Keating led his nomination to be one of the two Estevan trustees on the South East Cornerstone Public School Division’s board.
Nobody has led papers for the two Estevan trustee roles for the Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Divi-
sion’s board. A number of candidates have also led for the RM of Estevan’s election. Incumbent Reeve Jason LeBlanc, who was acclaimed to the role in August 2021, has led his papers for a rst full term in that role, while incumbent Councillors Kevin Daoust (Division 3) and Ramona Dukart (Division 5) are seeking another term in their roles. Newcomer Suzanne McNabb, who is vying for councillor in Di-
vision 1, has also led her forms. e RM will hold elections for councillors in Divisions 1, 3 and 5, as well as reeve. e deadline to le nomination papers for city and RM councils, and for the school boards, is Oct. 9. Candidates will then have 24 hours to withdraw their nomination forms.
SaskToday and the Mercury will continue to have regular updates on those who have led nomination papers.
Hallelujah!” he exclaimed, a sentiment supported by applause from those in attendance.
Commitment from the city Coun. Shelly Veroba echoed the excitement shared by many in Estevan. She highlighted the City of Estevan’s role in supporting the project, particularly its commitment to providing the land for the new facility.
“ e City of Estevan knows the importance of having our province invest in critical health-care infrastructure in our community,” she said Veroba was also keen to recognize the volunteers and businesses that have supported the nursing home project
through fundraising and advocacy.
“ ere are people who have continued to fundraise and volunteered their time and efforts to keep this project moving forward,” she said. “We are thankful to all of them for knowing the value this new nursing home will bring to Estevan and surrounding areas.”
Looking ahead, Veroba underscored the lasting impact the new facility will have on the region.
“With the increased number of beds, our community will be able to service more people in need of higher levels of care. … is investment is essential for future generations,” she said. Moving forward
While the ceremony cel-
ebrated the symbolic start of construction, there is still much work to be done. e next phase of the project will involve detailed design planning, in collaboration with the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement and local stakeholders. e timeline for completion remains uid, but Carr stressed her commitment to ensuring the project progresses smoothly.
“My job will be to ensure the timelines keep moving, that progress is being made, and that if things are stalling for whatever reason, I nd out what that is and ensure that we get this moving as quickly as possible,” she said Kindopp said he hopes to see work starting as soon as the next spring.
e Power Dodge Arena in Estevan is going to be closed for a few weeks. In a post on its Facebook page on Sept. 17, the City of Estevan’s leisure services division said that due to unforeseen circumstances, the rink will be shut down “to undergo necessary maintenance”. No further information was immediately released. According to the Facebook post, the arena is expected to reopen on Oct. 15.
issue with the ice plant chiller, and the problem is not connected to the renovation that took place in the arena earlier this year.
In an email to the Mercury and SaskToday, Jacquelyn Massey-Rounds, the manager of marketing and communications for the City of Estevan, said the shutdown is due to an
She said the ice plant chiller has an internal leak which is causing ammonia to get into the brine system. Although issues arise occasionally in operations, Massey-Rounds said this is the rst major mechanical issue that has occurred with the arena’s ice plant in a long time.
She added refrigeration technicians have estimated repairs will take two weeks, and the facilities team will need additional two weeks post-repair to rebuild the ice.
Ice was already in place at the arena for the 2024-
Anissuewiththeiceplantchillerhasresultedinthe temporaryclosureofthePowerDodgeArena.
25 season when the chiller issue arose.
e board renovation
in the Power Dodge Arena was completed earlier this year and was ready for the 2024-25 season when this internal leak was discovered, she said.
e closure will a ect a number of programs.
e city said family skate, originally scheduled to
start Oct. 2, will not run until the arena opens. e parent and tot skate program, slated to run from 11:15 a.m. to noon, and noon hockey, will run from Mondays-Wednesdays and Fridays at A nity Place, starting Oct. 1.
Wednesday, October 2,
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
Saskatchewan’s historic rst airmail ight, departing from Estevan Oct. 1, 1924, may have ended in a crash, but the story of that bold attempt continues to live on, thanks to people like Ken Turner.
A dedicated collector with a deep interest in Estevan’s history, Turner has spent decades acquiring and preserving rare airmail covers and stamps associated with the ight that aimed to connect Saskatchewan to the world.
“I honestly didn’t know these covers were out there,” Turner recalled, discussing his early discoveries.
One such cover he stumbled upon at a sale in Minot, N.D., sparked his fascination. It was
a cover without the distinct red stamp, but it was the one that started his research and collection.
Years later he was able to nd covers with the red stamps on them, and also learned more about the ight itself, as a collector in Saskatoon was able to summarize what happened in Estevan in 1924. e ight itself was meant to bring attention to Estevan’s burgeoning coal industry by delivering mail to Winnipeg via airplane.
Despite meticulous planning, mechanical trouble forced the pilot to crash land near Bienfait. e mail, however, continued its journey by train. is mishap, far from diminishing the historical importance of the ight, has added a layer of intrigue for collectors like Turner.
Turner was also able to nd an article published in the Mercury
ThefirstSaskatchewanairmailflightmemorabiliaalso sparkedTurner’sinterestinpreservinglocalhistory throughpostcardsandothermail-relateditems.
on Oct. 2, 1924, detailing the entire endeavour.
For Turner, collecting these covers is more than just a hobby; it’s about preserving a unique slice of Saskatchewan’s history.
“ ese stamps are part of Saskatchewan history,” he explained, showing how mail-related artifacts can o er a di erent perspective on the past
He continues to search for more airmail covers, adding to his growing collection and keeping the memory of this pioneering ight alive. ese artifacts also sparked his interest in Saskatchewan postal cards and other mail-related pieces.
“I got interested in stu that was in Estevan, so I tumbled into that area. And you just keep adding the piece that you stumble across at a show or someplace,” he explained.
Turner asked anyone who has covers, postcards or stamps related to the 1924 airmail ight to contact him at 306-421-2568.
“It’d be interesting to see who has them, how they got them or whatever they did with them,” he noted. is week marks the centennial anniversary of the pioneering airmail ight from Estevan to Winnipeg. Commissioned by C.A. Manlove, an Estevan insurance agent, the venture was designed to promote the town’s industrial potential, particularly its lignite coal resources, to federal and international audiences.
e journey, piloted by Flight Lt. Alton, was expected to put Estevan on the global stage by sending out specially stamped letters to key gures, including lieutenant governors of Canadian provinces, the Prince of Wales, Her Royal Highness, Winnipeg city council, the Winnipeg Rotary Club and philatelic societies around the world. It also included mail for friends and family of Estevan residents. e
Frontandbackoftheairmailcoversthatweretobedelivered fromEstevantoWinnipegviathefirstSaskatchewanairmail flightin1924.PhotosofKenTurner’scollection
mailbag contained 1,926 packages, all marked with special cancellations commemorating the ight, making them highly valuable for stamp collectors.
Manlove envisioned this ight as a way to draw attention to Estevan’s economic opportunities – particularly for Winnipeg fuel consumers with the lignite elds of this district – and the interest of foreign investors in the agriculture and industrial development of
Despiteallthepreparations,Lt.Alton,picturedherepickingupthe mailbaginEstevan,hadtohaveanemergencylandingonafieldin Bienfait,whereheranintoahiddenrockpilecrashingbothwingsof theplane.Fortunately,Altonandtheflightmechanicweren’tinjured.
this rich area of the North American mid-west. e mail carried messages to dignitaries, while its packaging featured maps and information on local industries like coal mining, brick production and more. Unfortunately, despite favourable weather and Lt. Alton’s meticulous preparations, the ight encountered mechanical trouble shortly after takeo . e aircraft was forced to land on a eld near Bienfait, when it struck a hidden rock pile, damaging its wings. Alton and the ight mechanic made it out safely. Despite the crash, Alton ensured the mail reached Winnipeg thanks to a passing train. While the crash was disappointing, particularly for its potential impact on promoting airmail service, the event remained a notable moment in Saskatchewan’s aviation and postal history. Estevan’s attempt at airmail delivery failed, but the mishap has not diminished the value of the special packages. And even though Manlove’s ambitious initiative may not have fully succeeded, it still managed to place Estevan on the international map, albeit in a more subdued fashion.
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
e Estevan Community Garden is wrapping up its 10th season, celebrating a decade of growth, community and fresh produce.
Despite facing challenges such as vandalism and critters, the garden continues to thrive and provide for both seasoned and novice gardeners alike.
“We haven’t done a whole lot new this year, but we did put in two in-ground beds,” said Shayna Burrell, a key organizer of the garden. “ ey’re really nice because they require a lot less maintenance, although the bunnies found them a little easier to access.” is year, the garden featured 19 beds, with 18 gardeners tending to them.
As always, the beds lled up quickly, and the garden maintains a waiting list each season.
“By May, we are usually full,” she said.
e 10th anniversary season also brought improvements, such as a recent switch to the city’s water, which means the gardeners don’t need to worry about hauling water in anymore.
ey were also able to re-shingle and repaint the garden shed, which had seen some wear over the years.
“We also lled in the bottom where the bunnies and gophers were wearing out the edges,” Burrell explained, highlighting the garden’s ongoing battle with local wildlife.
However, not all challenges were animal-related. Vandalism has been an unfortunate recurring issue for the community garden.
“It’s about the same every year – there are four to ve beds where they’ll pull out a bunch of things and just throw it on the ground,” said Burrell. “ ey’re not even taking it, which is the really unfortunate part.” Despite installing lights, the trouble continues.
Looking ahead, the garden team is optimistic.
ey’re hoping to secure grant funding to replace older beds with sturdier designs and potentially expand.
“We’d like to replace the rest of our old beds, and we’re hoping that maybe next year we can get a grant approved and get some money going toward that project,” said Burrell.
Despite the hurdles, Burrell expressed her pride in the garden’s milestone.
“I’m just really proud that we’ve made it to 10 years. It’s a really great community of people who have a real love for gardening, and they’re just some of the kindest people in our city,” she said.
“Here’s to another 10 years.”
Gardeners are encouraged to inquire about available beds in February or March, as spots ll up quickly each season. For now, the garden remains a vibrant hub for those seeking both produce and connection in the heart of Estevan.
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A decade of CCS went by very quickly
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For those who were lucky enough to be at the Boundary Dam Power Station on Oct. 2, 2014, it’s a day we won’t soon forget. e much-hyped carbon capture and storage (CCS) facility at Boundary Dam came online, and the celebration was likely one of the biggest in Estevan’s history. People came from all over to admire this technological marvel.
All that was missing was an appearance by former prime minister Stephen Harper, who had been in Estevan 6 1/2 years earlier to announce the federal government’s commitment to CCS at Boundary Dam.
e past 10 years have been a roller coaster for the concept. e excitement of the rst year – with all of the awards, accolades and tours – have worn o . Yes, we continue to see delegates visit Boundary Dam to view the project, but they aren’t as common as they were in the rst year or two.
ose rst few years weren’t easy, either. SaskPower was tasked with proving the technology. ere were a lot of times in which either Unit 3 or the CCS facility was o ine. Equipment had to be replaced to improve operations.
Critics of the Boundary Dam CCS project – many of whom want absolutely nothing to do with coal- red power, no matter the innovations that have been made – were likely rubbing their hands
gleefully at the malfunctions. ey want to see coal out of the mix as a power source. (Of course, many of them naively think solar power is a viable baseload power source).
CCS has also had its successes. e facility has thrived since early 2022. e only prolonged outages from early 2022 to mid-2024 were for scheduled reasons, the sort of thing that has to happen at every power plant, regardless of type.
In the rst six months of this year, the CCS facility captured more than 473,000 tonnes of CO2, and as of June 30, it had captured more than 6.2 million tonnes of CO2 since coming online.
It is providing clean, baseload power to the people of Saskatchewan, and as a bonus, the captured CO2 is being sold to Whitecap Resources, an energy company that uses the CO2 for enhanced oil recovery e orts.
e day of the grand opening, Robert Watson, the SaskPower CEO of the day, stood before the massive crowd, huddled beneath a tent on a cold October day, not only proclaiming that the project was online and that it worked, but that SaskPower was getting paid for it. e crowd applauded.
e delegates toured Unit 3 at the Boundary Dam Power Station and the CCS facility. ey were here because of this really cool project that was happening in our backyard. SaskPower was going
to change the world of power production with what was happening at Boundary Dam, and it was going to happen in the Estevan area.
A couple of years later, the federal Liberal government announced that it was fast-tracking the end of conventional coal- red power generation from 2042 to 2030, putting the future of coal plants in doubt, although BD3 would not be a ected. Less than two years later, SaskPower revealed it would not retro t Units 4 and 5 at the Boundary Dam Power Station with CCS technology because of the cost of the work; instead, the Crown corporation would opt for natural gas. ere’s be talk of converting Shand to a natural gas facility with CCS, but the federal government’s clean electricity standards, due to come into e ect in 2035, have put those discussions on hold. Perhaps the biggest downer for the facility is it has yet to be embraced on the global stage. Even though we’ve proven the technology works, and even though improvements continue to be made, this rst-of-its-kind project remains the only one of its kind in the world. We don’t know what the future will hold for CCS. If the Liberals have their way, it will have to be o ine in 2035. If the coal mines shut down in 2030, then CCS could be shuttered even earlier. But regardless of what the critics think, we know it works.
Thank you to everyone who’s noticed my absence
I’ve been writing my column on and o (mostly o ) recently due to a quite a few other duties I’ve had to take on since last March and June, and I apologize to my readers for that. Rest assured, I’m still here. I’m still living and covering the Estevan life, and I plan to continue doing so for many more years to come.
A few people reached out to me, commenting on my disappearance. To those of you who noticed, thank you! (and a special shout-out to NKP).
Writing this column is one of the most time-consuming parts of my week. It takes e ort, but it’s a labour of love. I put a lot of thought and research into my pieces. Once the research is done, I pour my heart and soul into crafting most of them. Sometimes that process is reversed, and the emotions come rst. What I mean is, I truly care about what I say, even if it doesn’t always come out exactly how I intended. (For that, I apologize – I’m still working on mastering my English).
I recognize that not everyone will enjoy my columns. Some of you may dislike them. My uncle, for one, has told me that my columns are “all emotion and no discipline,” and because of that, he doesn’t have much interest in them. But whether you like my writing or not, agree with what I say, or don’t, I want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading.
It’s important to clarify that I don’t treat my columns as statements of fact. I’m not trying to sway opinions or convince anyone to take my side. My goal is simply to share my perspectives – perspectives that, I admit, can sometimes be controversial – in the hope of sparking broader conversations. I believe truth is born from dialogue. We don’t arrive at truth in isolation, but through
Ana Bykhovskaia
the exchange of ideas, experiences and yes, disagreements. And I want to believe that the Mercury and SaskToday hold to the same principle.
at’s why we cover everything that happens in Estevan, to the best of our ability. We don’t just focus on the events that align with our opinions. Our readers – the people of Estevan and area – are what matter most.
It’s your needs, worries, victories and interests that we prioritize. We let other media outlets worry about the provincial, federal or international issues. We’re here for you. Estevan is our plate, and we’ll focus on what’s right here in front of us.
Of course, sometimes I can’t resist diving into international issues or philosophical questions. I admit, those pieces are deeply personal. I believe that issues beyond Saskatchewan and Canada are as important for the community as local happenings. ose global stories shape us just as much as local news does.
With this “return” column, I want to extend my thanks once again to all of you who noticed my absence and missed my input. It’s hard to put into words just how much your interest means to me. Even though words are my job, sometimes they just aren’t enough. Whether you agree with me or not, the fact that you’re reading, that you sometimes give me feedback, and that you include my stories in your world – it’s invaluable to me. e feedback I receive from readers is
something I treasure. I welcome a good, respectful debate. It’s through that push and pull that we often discover new ways of seeing things. What I love most is when a piece I’ve written sparks a conversation, whether at your dinner table or on social media. It’s proof that my words have, in some small way, contributed to the community dialogue, and for me, that’s worth more than gold. at being said, I recognize there’s always room to grow and improve. Estevan is a unique community, with a diverse population and many di erent perspectives. I want to make sure my columns re ect that diversity. I want to continue tackling the issues that matter most to you, whether they’re local, national or global. But for that to happen, I need your input. So, I’m putting out a call for ideas: What topics would you like me to cover in future opinion pieces (or articles)? Are there local issues you feel don’t get enough attention? Perhaps there’s a community event or initiative that you believe deserves a spotlight. Or maybe you’d like to hear more of my thoughts on international matters. Whatever the case may be, I want to hear from you. is column is, in many ways, a re ection of the Estevan community. Your voices matter, and I want them to be heard. So don’t hesitate to reach out, whether through social media, email, or even stopping me on the street. Your ideas, questions and feedback are what keep this column alive. In the end, this column is not just about me sharing my thoughts. It’s about fostering conversation and connection. It’s about celebrating our community, tackling our challenges and exploring new ideas together. ank you once again for your continued support. Let’s keep the dialogue going.
e Estevan Chamber of Commerce has found its new executive director.
Merissa Scarlett will move into the role e ective Oct. 16, replacing Jackie Wall, whose last day with the chamber was on Sept. 30. Scarlett’s most recent job experience in the community has been as the executive director of the Estevan Public Youth Centre – a role she took on earlier this year.
In an interview with the Mercury and SaskToday, she said it seemed like the chamber role was the right t for her. She has worked in the non-pro t sector and has sales experience with businesses, which allowed her to work with a lot of small and medium-sized business owners.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Scarlett. “I’ve really wanted to advocate for Estevan at a bigger level, and really I think having a good business community, which I think we already have, and just taking it further, is critical for success for not only the business community but for everybody’s well-being in Estevan.”
Her non-pro t experience includes time working at the Saskatchewan Science Centre, where she partnered with busi-
nesses to create events for the public. And her time is sales allowed her to see the struggle and passion of business owners.
“For me, I’m so happy to come back to that world and meet with the ones in Estevan that really make our community tick, and I want to just do more events for them and see what they need the chamber to do for them,” said Scarlett.
Her duties as the chamber’s executive director will include keeping the organization as an advisory entity for businesses, and being an advocate for local companies at the municipal, provincial and national levels of politics. She will have to help run networking events such as the chamber’s Co ee Talk on the rst Wednesday of each month, and she has some ideas on how to expand those gatherings. Growing the chamber’s membership base will also be part of her duties.
Scarlett is also looking forward to getting out in the community, meeting some of the existing chamber members, and nding out what they like about the organization and what could be improved.
Scarlett noted she has corresponded with Wall via email and Wall is
leaving a lot of information, including some good transition documents.
“I’m thrilled to be following in Jackie’s footsteps. It’s big shoes to ll, but I’m also really happy to inherit a highly-regarded chamber. I think Jackie did a great job of the last nine years, and I’m looking forward to continuing with a lot of her initiatives and hopefully spearhead some more,” said Scarlett.
Her time with EPYC has also helped her prepare for the new role. She developed a plan and strategy for the youth centre, and believes she learned a lot about running day-to-day operations. Even though it’s a
non-pro t, she believes it needs to be run like a business with its operations and managing budgets.
“I’ve also learned how to be a really good mediator and a leader to youth, and I think that comes in handy when dealing with anybody of any age,” said Scarlett.
She believes EPYC is going to move forward really well and the board has a good plan moving forward.
Scarlett expressed gratitude to EPYC, to the chamber’s board for giving her a chance, and to Wall for all the work that she has done in the past nine years.
ere are now ve candidates for the Estevan-Big Muddy constituency in the upcoming provincial election.
e Saskatchewan New Democratic Party announced late last week that Phil Smith will carry the party’s banner in the vote, slated to take place on Oct. 28.
According to his bio on the Saskatchewan NDP website, Smith was born in Arcola and works as a
InternationalLifeChain https://www.lifechain.org
Sunday October 6, 2024
Meer at corner of Souris Avenue &4th Street (Estevan CourtHouse)@ 1:45 Silent PrayerfulWitness 2-3pm Posters& prayersprovided Formoreinformation, Call BridgetwithPro-Life 306-461-4611
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cook in the food services industry. He is a musician, having been a drummer in a band and a hip-hop artist. Smith also has experience as a stand-up comedian.
No further information on Smith was released by the party, and he was not immediately available for comment.
He joins a eld that also includes incumbent MLA Lori Carr of the Saskatchewan Party, Andrew
e
had yet to announce candidates for the election as of Sunday afternoon. e Mercury and SaskToday will have coverage of the election throughout the campaign.
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Check himout on YouTube. Friend and follow Tony DeBlois on Facebook.
Concert sponsored by Pro-Life Estevan& Area, Inc. In memoryofFather Cornelius Lucey
By Stephanie Zoer
For the 15 years since its inception, this event has been led by the dedicated e orts of Darlene Olsen. Creative Tables has grown into a signi cant community event, drawing people from the surrounding areas, all coming to-
e annual Creative Tables fundraiser in Arcola is set to return Oct. 17 at Prairie Place Hall, continuing a long-standing tradition of supporting cancer awareness and fundraising events.
gether to decorate unique table settings that embody creativity and imagination.
Each table, often themed and adorned with intricate details, serves as a visual celebration of artistry, while also symbolizing the ght against cancer.
Olsen’s leadership has been key to the event’s enduring success, ensuring that it remains not only a staple in the area but also a meaningful initiative for cancer research and support. e funds raised over the years have gone to
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many charitable organizations. Part of the funds this year go towards the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan, which is the fundraising partner of the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency.
In January 2025, the breast screening program will reduce the age of eligibility to include women aged 40-49. To meet the demand, the Cancer Foundation is raising funds for a second mobile mammography vehicle for rural and remote areas in Saskatchewan.
is year’s funds will also help support the Carlyle Cubs Learning Centre and the Carlyle District Foodbank.
As Arcola prepares for this year’s event, attendees can look forward to another year of stunning tables, camaraderie and the shared mission of making a di erence in the ght against cancer. e event not only highlights the creativity of participants, but also unites the community in a cause that has touched many lives.
With 15 years of history behind it, this will be the last Creative Tables that Olsen will organize, as she feels it is time to move on. is year’s entertainment will be Deb Chalus, and Olsen is pleased that she accepted the invitation.
“We are fortunate to have such talented individuals in our area,” said Olsen.
e event is expected to go out with a bang, and Olsen always has last-minute surprises planned. One will need to attend to see what happens.
“I guarantee that it will be a fun evening,” said Olsen. e remaining tickets must be purchased by Oct. 10.
Olsen is also accepting donations for a silent auction. A donation can also be made in memory of a loved one.
Olsen said she is so proud of everyone who has decorated a table, hosted a
table, been a guest speaker, volunteered to help, provided entertainment or attended the Creative Tables fundraiser over the years.
“Each one of you have made it such a successful fundraiser for the Look Good Feel Better Program and some of our local charities in the area,” she said. For any information or for tickets feel free to contact Olsen at 306-5778087.
By Ana Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca
In a celebratory evening on Sept. 28, people from the village of Roche Percee and other areas gathered to witness the unveiling of new lights at the Roche Percee rocks, a historical landmark deeply embedded in the region’s culture and history.
Over 60 people, including local residents and ofcials, and Estevan MLA Lori Carr, who also resides in the Roche Percee area, were present for the event, marking a signi cant milestone in preserving the heritage site. e event featured the raising of ags and the rst o cial lighting of the rocks, a spectacle that Mayor Jay Riedel said had been long overdue.
“When you see this lit up, it’s something that you’ll never understand why it’s never been done before,” Riedel remarked, emphasizing the site’s historical and cultural importance to the community.
e Roche Percee rocks, which hold sacred signicance to Indigenous peoples and have seen centuries of exploration and settlement, have been part of local
folklore, with carvings and markings dating back generations.
Riedel acknowledged this rich past, encouraging the community to preserve the heritage for future generations.
“ is area has a signi cant history ... Many pre-contact carvings like the thunderbird drawn by our First Nations are still visible. Many tribes regarded the rocks as sacred. You can still feel their presence.
“ en, in 1874, the North West Mounted Police and their March West trekked through this area and also signed their names. is year was the 150th anniversary; they made camp in the area.
“Also, history tells us that Al Capone and the rum runners came through, General [George Armstrong] Custer, the Seventh Cavalry, and the Boundary Commission went through as many more. Rumors of Sitting Bull. And of course, we can’t forget the Rugaroos,” Riedel shared. e Roche Percee rocks, which have seen everything from pre-colonial sacred rituals to historical journeys of the North West Mounted Police, are now further preserved for
future generations.
Ahead of the light-up moment, long-time village resident Reg Jahn shared a few myths and legends of the area.
“ e First Nations, the Lakota Sioux, who were very prominent here at one time, have a di erent version of how these rocks were created. At the beginning of time, there was a great serpent crawling on the face of the Earth and a great eagle soaring in the sky. e eagle wanted to eat the serpent, so he swooped down and he picked him up and he carried him o ,” Jahn shared the story.
“But the serpent didn’t want to be eaten, so he fought, and he struck, and he twisted, and he turned. And nally, the eagle had to let him go because he could no longer hang on to him. But they were at a great height. And as the serpent fell to the earth, he turned to stone and when he hit the earth, he shattered. And those shatterings are what you see up and down the valley today.
“If you look at this rock formation o here to your right in the daytime from the side, you’ll see the serpent’s head. So the story must be true.”
Estevan city council heard questions about its recently-approved plan for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) from the Concerned Citizens Estevan SK group, and also provided an update on DEI e orts during its Sept. 23 meeting.
Myles Fichter and Milton Vicary from the group appeared before council to discuss the DEI e orts, with several members in attendance. Fichter cited several recent criticisms of DEI, and provided examples of corporations that have backed away from DEI.
At one point, Coun. Kirsten Walliser – who was chairing the meeting as deputy mayor because Mayor Roy Ludwig is on holidays – interrupted Fichter to remind him he was nearly nished his 10 minutes of allotted time, as the Concerned Citizens had earlier wanted an update on the downtown revitalization project. Fichter replied he was nearly nished.
Walliser then told him it would not leave much time for a response from council. Fichter said it was his understanding of the bylaw that he had 10 minutes to make his statements, and council would have time to respond.
Fichter said the Concerned Citizens wanted to know the cost of the imple-
mentation, the estimated payroll costs of managers to take the DEI training, the cost of the course and the cost of the program itself.
Walliser said it does not a ect the city’s hiring policy, as the city has not changed internal documents to prefer certain demographics over others.
“ e rst step the city took was to ask about inclusion, so when we do a project or we bring a policy forward, we ask that three questions be evaluated,” said Walliser. ose questions are who the policy includes, who it excludes and how to bridge that gap.
Walliser noted the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association has created a tool for DEI that is free to use, so there is no cost to purchase or use it. e only cost thus far has been $600 for city management team members to take the assessment tool.
Later in the meeting, council received an initial report on the DEI plan. Walliser believes it’s good for current members to complete the document, even though council has
held the last meeting of the current term, because it shows the work that has taken place and the e orts that remain.
She noted some participants thought the city had already achieved the goal of a culture of inclusion.
***
Council granted the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation’s request for a discounted rate of $3,750 for the use of A nity Place during the Festival of Trees gala on Nov. 16. e foundation will also have access to the overhead scoreclock to show videos.
e city will also purchase a corporate table for the event.
Teagan Littlechief of the White Bear First Nations will provide entertainment for the event.
***
Council approved a development permit for a daycare in the 1500-block of Wellock Road, adjacent to St. Joseph’s Hospital, following up on their approval of a rezoning bylaw for the project at an earlier meeting.
e licensed day care would be on three parcels
consolidated into one, and would accommodate up to 90 clients.
Neufeld suggested two access points o of Wellock Road, and he said there would be 11 parking spots, which would exceed requirements.
Coun. Shelly Veroba said the sooner council moves forward on the project, the sooner the 90 spaces will be built, and she believes they are de nitely needed.
Council also approved a licensed daycare at a residence’s basement in the 1800-block of Wellock Road.
***
e city’s annual fall Operation Clean Sweep will take place from Oct. 18-20 with a free land ll weekend. City of Estevan residents can dispose of residential waste, yard waste, construction and demolition debris. Freon appliances and mattresses will not be accepted.
Besides musts and the lights, the Roche Percee rocks site also saw a cement pad and picnic tables installed.
During the ceremony, Riedel highlighted the work that went into the preservation e orts as well as recent progress and development in and around the village,
including the improved highway leading into Roche Percee. e project to light up the rocks, according to Riedel, was the culmination of years of work and collaboration between various organizations, including the Southeast Sask Economic Partnership (SSEP) and SaskParks. e mayor extended thanks to several contributors.
“It’s been a big group of people that had to make this happen, and it all had to work perfectly to get where we are today,” Riedel said.
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was when the lights were o cially turned on, illuminating the ancient rock formations that have been at the heart of numerous local legends. As the lights ickered on, the crowd erupted in applause, marking the successful completion of the long-awaited project.
StaffandstudentsattheEstevanComprehensiveSchoolweretyingoneonforSADDSept.30,1991.TheStudents AgainstDrunkDrivingwerecanvassingbusinessesinthedistrictduringOctoberforsponsorshipstohelpdefray costsofconferencesandworkshops.Theredribbonsattachedtocarexteriorsindicatedacommitmenttowardsnot drinkinganddriving.Makingtheircommitmentwere,fromleft,WardMowry,staffco-ordinator;JenniferHemus,
People in the Estevan area had the opportunity to learn more about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), thanks to a luncheon and a guest speaker on Sept. 25 at the Days Inn’s Taylorton Room.
It was the second of four luncheons hosted by the FASD Network of Saskatchewan in the province this fall. A similar event was held in La Ronge the previous week, and there are future gatherings in Saskatoon and Regina. Guest speaker Shana Mohr talked about raising a 16-year-old daughter with FASD.
Executive director Andrea Kotlar said the organization hosts these luncheons because FASD is very stigmatized and misunderstood. ey will travel anywhere they are invited.
ShanaMohr
events is often comprised of people who work with those with FASD and family members of people with FASD.
“ ere were quite a few di erent organizations that were there, and I think FASD does touch people personally, and not as many people mentioned that, but it was mentioned here that people had personal family members … who are impacted by FASD as well,” she said.
spired Mohr to learn more about FASD and do the work she does. She went back to school more than a decade ago to learn more.
“I always say she’s my favourite teacher. She teaches me every single day about the complexities and also the strengths that can be found within the FASD world,” said Mohr. Individuals who are impacted face challenges, she said, but they also have a lot of strengths. ey learn, but the people who learn the most are family members and other loved ones.
Twenty-one people attended the luncheon, Kotlar said, and she expects the FASD Network will be working collaboratively with some of them in the future. e crowd at these
“We’ve worked with a couple of the agencies in Estevan, and so we thought this was a good spot to host one of our lunch and learns,” said Kotlar.
Mohr is the training and programs manager with the provincial network. She has been involved with the FASD community for 11 years, and she talks to people about the condition. She described the audience as engaged and noted people wanted to ask questions and bring her back to the community.
“ ere was de nitely a vested interest in learning about FASD in this space today,” said Mohr.
She agreed with Kotlar that FASD has a lot of stigma, and there are a lot of misconceptions about what is a complex disability.
“I love the opportunity to spread hope and positivity in the complex world of FASD,” said Mohr. Her daughter has in-
“It’s a journey we walk with people, and when we can shift the way we work and the way we think and have a broader understanding of FASD, we can help set up people for success.” Kotlar said Mohr is one of the best speakers when it comes to FASD. People respect her and love her presentation. Kotlar said the network is low-barrier and client-led. It believes in harm reduction, trauma-informed care and FASD-informed services. People don’t need a diagnosis to access their e orts, so they would like anybody who thinks they might be impacted to call and ask questions.
TheEstevanArtGalleryandMuseumhostedtwodays ofBeadingandBannockaheadoftheNationalDay forTruthandReconciliation.JillRuepledworkshops onSept.28and29,teachingparticipantstohand sewfringeearringsusingthebrickstitchpattern, incorporatingdentaliumshellsintotheirdesigns. Thoseinattendancewerealsotreatedtobannock andfriedbreadfromWhiskedGoodsBakery. RuepgreetedparticipantsintheMichiflanguage usedbytheMétispeopleinCanadaandtheU.S.,and sharedherpersonalstoryandancestry,tracingback tothe18thcentury,aheadoftheworkshop. ShethenintroducedtheMedicineWheelandits meaning,explainedthetraditionalbeading techniqueandledthecreativeclass.
Members of the Estevan
Fire Rescue Service were called to a residential re on Nicholson Road on Saturday. According to deputy re chief Kyle Luc, it was a minor re with no injuries and minimal damage. e incident is under investigation.
Also, re ghters were called to a collision involving a vehicle and a deer in the Roche Percee valley on Sept. 26. Luc said there were no injuries reported to the occupants of the vehicle, but the deer didn’t survive.
Fire ghters also spent a few hours at a grass re southeast of the city on Sept. 22. Fire Chief Rick Davies said they extinguished the re without incident. ere were no reports of damage or injuries. e cause of the
re is still under investigation.
Davies said conditions are getting drier in the southeast. e re index ratings for the region have been in the moderate range, but the above-average temperatures and the wind have had an impact.
Fire ghters also handled a number of alarm calls last week. Crews were called to a residential re alarm in northeast Estevan in the morning of Sept. 16. Davies said re ghters determined it might be a carbon monoxide alarm, as there was nothing found to indicate a smoke alarm, but there were no readings for CO, either, so it might have been a faulty detector.
On Sept. 20 just before 10 p.m., re ghters were called to a commercial re
alarm in northwest Estevan. ey determined there was no emergency occurring, and it’s believed the alarm was due to steam from a shower.
e following night, re ghters were dispatched to another commercial alarm with a burning odor in south-central Estevan. ey determined it was a cooking-related alarm and assisted with ventilating and getting the alarm reset at that location.
In the evening of Sept. 22, re ghters were called to an odor investigation in north-central Estevan. Crews responded and investigated, and no issues were found.
On Sept. 23, just before 4 a.m., re ghters were called to a commercial re alarm in south Estevan.
EmergencyvehicleswereatthescenefollowingahousefireonSaturdayevening.
An investigation found an emergency was not occurring, and it was determined to be a possible
alarm system issue. Another commercial re alarm in northwest Estevan occurred on Sept. 25. Again,
an emergency was not occurring, and the EFRS suspects it was an alarm issue as well.
A semi hauling a livestock trailer rolled over southeast of Midale on Sept. 21, resulting in injuries to the driver and the death of 22 cattle.
e Estevan RCMP and other emergency crews received a report of the incident at approximately 8 a.m. that day.
According to a news release from the Saskatchewan RCMP sent to the Mercury and SaskToday, the driver of the semi was taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
e semi was hauling approximately 100 cattle.
e RCMP said 22 died as a result of the incident. e Estevan RCMP detachment engaged veterinary care for the animals.
Local ranchers assisted
with herding the surviving cattle, who were transported to safety.
e RCMP says an investigation is ongoing. ***
Members of the Estevan Police Service and Estevan EMS attended to a central Estevan apartment on Sept. 23 for a report of a female in distress. She was transported by EMS to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment.
Police and Estevan EMS attended to a central Estevan residence on Sept. 24 for a report of a male in distress. He reportedly made comments about harming himself. e male, who was unharmed upon police arrival, was transported by EMS to St. Joseph’s Hospital for further assessment.
City of Estevan
PROCLAMATION
United WayEstevanTelethon
WHEREAS United WayEstevan’smissionis to positively impact thequality of life in our community and WHEREAS United WayEstevan’sTelethon raises funds for local member agencies and community impact projects to improve livesfor all in ourcommunityassigns local volunteers to local project to makeadifference where we live BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED: “I, Kirsten Walliser,Deputy Mayor of the City of Estevaninthe ProvinceofSaskatchewandohereby proclaim the week of October 13th to October 19th 2024 as United Way EstevanTelethon Week, and urge all citizens of Estevantorecognize and support the goals and objectivesofUnited WayEstevan.
A call came in regarding another male in central Estevan who made comments while in public of his wishes to harm himself. Members attended, searched the area and made extensive patrols and inquiries, but the male was not located.
A report of a potential fraud was taken by the EPS. An individual sent a sum of money to a crypto account. It appears the victim was scammed and has lost approximately $1,500 as a result. No further details were released.
An Estevan resident reported seeing two people in her vehicle in the middle of the night. Police responded but the suspects had ed the area prior to police arrival. Several patrols of the surrounding area were made and police spoke with two known individuals. e matter remains under investigation.
e EPS reminds and encourages the public to be diligent in securing their vehicle when not in use, to
remove any valuables from the vehicle and keep any loose change or monies out of plain sight.
Police observed several youths throwing paintballs and other materials while gathered in the parking lot of the Power Dodge Arena. e youths were identied and subsequently were charged under the Environmental Management and Protection Act. Each youth charged received a $580 ne.
e EPS arrested a Meadow Lake woman for impaired driving on Sept. 25. Patrol members attended to a business in northeast Estevan to investigate a report of an impaired motorist who was about to drive away. e EPS said a 23-year old Meadow Lake woman was located and found to be in care and control of a running vehicle, which resulted in her arrest for impaired driving. She was transported to the police station where she provided two breath
samples, both of which exceeded the legal limit of .08. She is scheduled to make her rst appearance in Estevan Provincial Court on Nov. 18 to speak to the charge. at same day, the EPS received a report of a hitand-run collision involving a SMILE Services vehicle that was parked in the 1300-block of Sixth Street. Police have obtained a description of the suspect vehicle and asked for the person responsible to come forward on their own.
Police received reports of tra c lights not functioning at several intersections as a result of a power outage. e EPS thanks city sta for working quickly to get stop signs out to prevent collisions.
e EPS also reminds motorists that when tra c lights aren’t functioning properly, intersections are to be treated as uncontrolled and extra caution should be used.
A complaint of criminal
harassment was received during day shift. e matter remains under investigation.
Members attended to a residence in south Estevan to investigate a report of a male who might be suicidal. Estevan EMS and EPS members attended, spoke to the individual and determined he was not suicidal, but he was put in contact with the EPS Police and Crisis Team (PACT) for additional follow-up.
Members and EMS crews were dispatched to an apartment in north-central Estevan on Sept. 23 for a report of female in distress. e female was assessed on scene and transported to hospital for further evaluation.
Police issued a number of tra c violation tickets on Sept. 26 as a result of a tra c enforcement initiative that focused on speed in northeast Estevan. A tra c collision was reported in northeast Estevan that resulted in one vehicle being towed as a result of damage sustained. No injuries were reported.
Police responded to an alarm at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Sept. 27. When members arrived, the alarm had gone o due to a loss of power, causing several issues within the hospital. O cers, along with the PACT unit, were dispatched to a residence on Sept. 28 for a suicidal male. Members spoke with the male and o ered services.
A mischief report was led with the EPS. at matter remains under investigation, with statements pending.
Police received a report of someone shooting BB guns at another vehicle while travelling along King Street on Sept. 29. No damage was noted on the victim vehicle. e driver was located and it was not a BB gun but a water pellet gun. e youth was warned of his actions.
For the rst time in their ve-season history, the Estevan Great North U18 AAA Bears are 2-0 to start a season. e Bears defeated the Tisdale Trojans 4-3 on both Saturday and Sunday at A nity Place to sweep the season-opening doubleheader between the two teams.
In Saturday’s game, Kayson Anderson recorded the Bears’ rst goal of the season 4:45 into the opening frame to give the Bears a 1-0 advan-
tage. Goals by Dylan Brass, Boston Schmidt and Aidan Mohan in the second period left the Bears with a 4-2 lead. e Trojans scored in thenal minute of the third to make the game interesting.
Cole Ivey stopped 21 of the 24 shots he faced to get the win.
e following day, Brass scored on a power play with 4:48 to play in the third period to lift the Bears to the win. Estevan had a 3-1 lead early in the
second period, but Tisdale scored in each of the second and third periods to tie the game.
Kobe Wotta, Brendan Jones and Cooper Flath had Estevan’s other goals.
Brady Carr made 24 saves on 27 shots to get the win.
Estevan will visit the Regina Pat Canadians on Oct. 2. en they will travel to play the Warman Wildcats on Oct. 5 and the reigning league champions, the Saskatoon Blazers, the following day.
e Estevan Lions Club U14 Oilers continued what has been their strongest season in program history by defeating the reigning league champions, the Weyburn Falcons, 28-1 Friday night in Weyburn.
Running back TJ ompson scored two touchdowns on the ground and another through the air to lead the Oilers’ attack, and receiver Hayden Tokarchuk had a rushing touchdown for his rst major of the season.
Coach Christian Pfeifer praised the resilience of the players, as they went into the game with 21 players dressed, and a couple of players were hurt during the game, so a lot of the athletes had to play on both o ence and defence.
“ ey didn’t ask questions. ey didn’t complain,” said Pfeifer. “Whenever we needed somebody
out there to play a position that they were unfamiliar with, they just went out there and they did it to the best of their ability.”
Due to weight restrictions in the Moose Jaw league, teams can only play certain players in some positions, which meant the coaches had to get very creative.
“We made due, and then the kids stepped up big for us,” said Pfeifer.
When Weyburn beat Estevan earlier this season, three of the Falcons’ four touchdowns were scored on special teams. is time the Oilers were “in nitely” better defending against the kicko and punt returns, he said. “ ere were no special teams touchdowns scored on either side,” said Pfeifer. “We learned from our mistakes and corrected them, and these kids, they really showed up.”
e Oilers (4-1) will wrap up the regular season by hosting the Swift Current Steelers at 1 p.m. on Oct. 6 at the Dana Quewezance Memorial Field at Woodlawn Athletic Park.
***
e Estevan Power Dodge U12 Chargers picked up a lopsided 6113 victory over the Weyburn Ravens, also Friday in Weyburn.
Dexx Tendler shifted from running back to quarterback for the game and scored eight of their touchdowns. Running back Colton Juneau also scored once in the game. Merrick Ross succeeded on a couple of two-point convert attempts.
Coach James Haagsman noted the Chargers have a new player on defence, Jax Trombley, and he made a majority of Estevan’s tackles.
e Chargers led 48-6 at halftime.
Haagsman noted the Chargers have been spending most of their practices focusing on the defensive side of the ball and it showed on Friday. He is very proud of the players who have gone from never playing a snap of football to making a crucial third down stop.
e Chargers (2-3) will wrap up their regular season by visiting the Moose Jaw Spartans on Oct. 5. ***
e Southeast U18 Estevan Kinette Club Viragos lost 54-12 to the Moosomin Generals on Sunday in Moosomin. e game was called at halftime as due to injuries, the Viragos did not have enough players to continue.
Carly Herman had both of Estevan’s touchdowns, and coach Mark Tribiger
noted Kassidy Wallington had an interception on defence.
He added the o ensive line, comprised of Isabella McQuaid, Kassidy Wallington and Kristen Loro , played really well, not allowing the Generals anywhere near quarterback Aurora McCutcheon. ey also opened up “huge” holes for Herman to make some big runs, Tribiger said.
e Viragos will visit Swan River in their next game in early October. ***
e Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs were on the road last Tuesday for a game against the Swift Current Colts, and lost 30-14.
Coach Chris Bayerle said the game was tied 14-14 at halftime, but then Swift Current pulled away in the second half.
Running back Preston McGuire and receiver Dorian Sifton had the touchdowns for Estevan. Khalifa Elshein converted both scores.
Quarterback Tristan Tober had a combined 210 yards passing to Sifton and Elshein, Bayerle said. e Estevan defence came up with two fumble recoveries.
Bayerle described it as a chippy game, and both teams were looking for their rst win of the season. e Elecs still have some improvements to make, but Bayerle said the team is working towards controlling the eld, and the Elecs used a bye week to recover from some injuries.
e Elecs’ next game will be Oct. 5 when they visit Moose Jaw Peacock, who is also looking for its rst win of the season.
e Eagle Sky Estevan Bruins dropped their third straight game to start the 2024-25 regular season on Friday night when they lost 2-1 to the defending SJHL champions, the Melfort Mustangs. Reed Gramlich had the Bruins’ lone goal – his rst in the SJHL. He scored at the ve-minute mark of the third to pull the Bruins to within one. Estevan had chances to tie the game – the Bruins outshot the Mustangs 16-3 in the third period – but couldn’t get another puck past Mustangs’ goalie Madden Mulawka, who nished with 27 saves on the night. Mulawka wasn’t busy in the rst two periods, facing just 12 shots, but still came up with some big stops, including saves on breakaways by Cade Kennedy and Carter Onrait, and a spectacular save on Kent Moors on a twoon-one rush.
Bruins’ goaltender Benjamin Polhill made 23 saves, including some timely ones
(17)setsupascreeninfrontoftheMelfortgoal
in the opening 40 minutes that kept the Bruins in the game.
Logan Belton had both of Melfort’s goals. He opened the scoring on a
Melfort power play less than three minutes into the game, and he added to the Mustangs’ advantage early in the second.
Bruins’ head coach and general manager Jason Tatarnic said the club ran into penalty trouble in the rst period, but he was pleased with the overall e ort.
“Teams are going to have possession in your zone, and you’re going to have possession in their zone. at’s just the nature of the game,” said Tatarnic. “I thought we played really well. It was not a lack of e ort. ere was some bad puck luck there, and we had some chances, and just didn’t nd the back of the net. at will come. It is a process, and as a sta , we liked what we saw tonight.”
Patience remains a key word for the Black and Gold, he said. Four players on the roster had SJHL experience enter-
ing this season, so there is a feeling-out process. e evaluations continue, and they’re looking for the right 25-player mix. Keiran Ronan and Bo Doxtator made their SJHL debuts and impressed, Tatarnic said. Both are 20-year-old defencemen who were acquired last week. Forward Cody Polumbus also made his Bruin debut and Tatarnic thought Polumbus looked good with his speed. Forwards Brady Wilson, Finn Klippenstein and Khan Dhaliwal, and defenceman Michael Carter all missed the Melfort game due to injury and Tatarnic said there is no timetable for their respective returns. e Bruins will be back on the ice when they host the Nipawin Hawks on Oct. 4 and the Flin Flon Bombers the following night. Both games will start at 7 p.m.
e Estevan Trap Club hosted its seventh annual Pump ‘N ump Shoot competition and registered shoot Sept. 21 and 22 at the range south of the city.
Twelve registered shooters from Saskatchewan and Manitoba attended over the course of two days. A total of 6,200 targets were released between singles, doubles and handicap divisions.
Winners of the singles events were Barry Gordon of Brandon, Duke Gooding of Estlin, Sask., and Mal Englot of Regina on
Sept. 21, and Logan King of Saskatoon, Dale Shackleton of Churchbridge and Dace Tamblyn of Lampman the following day. Clarence Durr of Estevan and Shackleton won the handicap events on Sept. 21 and 22, respectively. Doubles events were won by Jason Sparwood of Virden, Man., and Reg King of Estevan on Sept. 21, and John Nuttal of Regina, and Gordon and Gooding on Sept. 22. A few more local shooters joined in for the Sept. 21 Pump ‘N ump to
shoot 15 singles, 20 doubles and 15 handicap targets under the lights. e rst-place winner was Gordon, who took home a re pit and a cash prize of $250. e runner-up was Gooding after a shoot-o with Joe Harvey, taking home $200. Marcien Leclerc was the high score in the non-Amateur Trapshooting Association registered shooter category, winning $150. If anyone would like more information on group shoots or Sunday sessions, email estevantrapclub@outlook.com.
Estevan’s Trackside MX hosted the nal races for the South Corner Racing Circuit this year on Saturday and Sunday.
Motocross racers of different ages and skill levels competed both days. e circuit held several races in southeast communities this season.
Results are as follows (riders listed in order from rst up to fth place):
Sept. 28:
A Class: Matthew Stokes, Trey Gri n, Connor Bendickson, Jason Loewen and Troy Revet.
B Class: Leo Hickey, Brody Schure, Caden Fonstad, Noah Peters and Matt Russell.
C Class: Kyson Gavelin, Nate Geisbrecht, Aaron Geisbrecht, Ethan Furtney and Dante Nelson.
Super mini: Mason Litwin, Eli Hickey, Falken Kantymir, Carver Lyttle and Royce Milford.
65CC: Eli Hickey, Gus
Wlock, Jordy Loewen, Lacey Barbour and Bentley Haus.
Two-stroke: Brody Schure, Cole Barnstable, Randy Franke, Matt Russell and Caden Fonstad.
50CC: JL Armstrong, Max Penna, Kendyn Rekken, Huckson Stefan and Summer Olmstead.
Women: Lauren Puhlmann, Kate Lees, Savanna Feldman, May Bendickson and Lucinda Milford.
85CC: Eli Hickey, Falken Kantymir, Royce Milford, Evan Barbour and Taylen Revet.
Veteran (age 30-plus): Troy Levet, Jason Loewen, Kayne Fisher, JJ Barnstable and Bryce Friess. Youth (14-29): Matthew Stokes, Trey Gri n, Connor Bendickson, Rylan Evans and Rydell Herberholz. Sept. 29:
A Class: Trey Gri n, Matthew Stokes, Connor Bendickson, Troy Revet and Jason Loewen.
B Class: Leo Hickey, Brody Schure, Graham Neufeld, Noah Peters and Steve Butler.
C Class: Aaron Geisbrecht, Nate Geisbrecht, Kyson Gavelin, Dante Nelson and Henry Ortman.
65CC: Eli Hickey, Gus Wlock, Jordy Loewen, Bentley Haus and Mike Van Veen.
Two-stroke: Grayson Pryde, Mason Litwin, Cole Barnstable, Noah Peters and Brody Schure.
Supermini: Mason Litwin, Eli Hickey, Falken Kantymir, Carver Lyttle and Royce Milford.
50CC: Huckson Stefan, LJ Armstrong, Kendyn Rekken, Max Penna and Summer Olmstead.
Women: Lauren Puhlmann, Savanna Feldman, May Bendickson, Lucinda Milford and Parker Russill.
85CC: Falken Kantymir, Carver Lyttle, Royce Milford, Taylen Revet and Evan Barbour.
Veteran (30-plus): Troy Levet, Jason Loewen, Kayne Fisher, Bryce Friess and Randy Franke. Youth (14-29): Matthew Stokes, Trey Gri n, Connor Bendickson, Rydell Herberholz and Tucker Wyatt.
e Estevan Canuckcade U10 Cudas football team had a fun season on the gridiron, participating in several jamborees, including one at home.
e Cudas hosted their annual event on Sept. 22 at the Dana Quewezance Memorial Field at Woodlawn Athletic Park. Six teams participated, with three from Moose Jaw, two from Weyburn and one from Estevan.
e eld was divided into sections, and the teams had fun scrimmages with six players on the eld for each squad. Cudas head coach Amy Belitski noted they didn’t o cially keep score, but that didn’t prevent the kids from tracking the results in their heads.
“ e kids always have so much fun,” said Belitski. “ ey love playing against another team and they like the challenge.”
TheEstevanCanuckcadeU10CudasgatherforagroupphotoaftertheirjamboreeonSept.22.PhotocourtesyofAmyBelitski
Seventeen players were on the U10 Cudas this year, and four assistant coaches joined Belitski in guiding the team. ey had jamborees in Moose Jaw and Weyburn prior to the one in Estevan, and then they wrapped up their season with another gathering in Moose Jaw on Sept. 29.
ree people from southeast Saskatchewan were among those who received King Charles III Coronation Medals during a ceremony at Government House in Regina on ursday.
Long-time Cannington
MLA Dan D’Autremont, business leader and philanthropist Vi Day and journalist Brian Zinchuk were presented with the honours.
Belitski said it’s been a great season for the Cudas. ey brought their “A-game” to both games and practices, and the beautiful weather in the southeast in September added to the fun this fall.
“ ey have made amazing progress. ere was probably a handful of kids that have never played football before, but they have learned how play … quite well,” said Belitski.
e experience at the U10 level will help the players be ready for football next year in U12 games with the Estevan Power Dodge Chargers – a team that has enjoyed success in recent years. e Cuda players have been learning fundamentals, such as how to properly play the game and how to tackle, but also how to protect themselves while playing in a full-contact sport. ere is tackling at the U10 level.
“When they get up to that U12 level, it is a much harder game with more tackling and bigger kids,” said Belitski. Belitski said she would like to see more kids playing U10 football next year. For eight and nine-year-olds who are interested in football, there is lots of room for players, she said, and they could also use coaches and managers.
D’Autremont, who lived in the Alida area, was the MLA for the Cannington constituency from 1991-2020. At the time he retired, he was the longest-serving MLA in the Saskatchewan legislature. He was a founding member of the Saskatchewan Party in 1997, and also served a term as the speaker of the legislative assembly. Day, whose family operates Fast Trucking in Carndu , has earned a number of recognitions, thanks to the success of the business and its contributions to southeast Saskatchewan. She was a recipient of the 2022 Southeast Saskatchewan Legends Award at the Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show. Her citation states she has contributed signi cantly to the oil and gas sector in Saskatchewan for over 65 years.
nalism to contribute to the understanding of the oil and gas industry through a focus on providing news on Saskatchewan’s energy industry.
“As the representative of e King in Saskatchewan, I am honoured to present these medals, which celebrate His Majesty’s coronation while recognizing outstanding Canadians,” Mirasty said.
Zinchuk, who owns and operates the Pipeline Online news website, is an award-winning photojournalist who has used jour-
“ ose receiving Coronation Medals today have made remarkable contributions in areas ranging from health care to industry to recreation. e list of honourees includes a veteran of the Second World War and volunteers who have generously donated countless
Four male and four female athletes were part of the Team South East entry that competed at the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletics Association’s provincial golf tournament on Sept. 27 and 28 at the Northern Meadows Golf Course near Goodsoil.
e male team nished fourth with a two-day total of 465. ey were tied for sixth after the rst round with a score of 236, but improved to fourth place on the second day by shooting a 229. e top three scores on each hole counted towards the male team’s total.
Kerr Cudmore of Wawota Parkland School nished 10th overall with a two-round total of 155 (74-81). Cruz Symons of Estevan Comprehensive School (ECS) shot a 164 (87-77), Blake Young of McNaughton High School in Moosomin wasn’t far behind
with a 167 (87-80) and Terran East of Gordon F. Kells (GFK) High School in Carlyle nished with a total of 180 (91-89).
e Team South East female team nished seventh with a cumulative two-round total of 392. ey were seventh after the rst round with a 199 and had the sixth-best team score on the second day with a 193. e top two scores on each hole counted towards the female team’s total. Tianna Delalleau of GFK was the top nisher for Team South East in the individual competition, taking 17th with a two-round score of 207 (99-108). Kirsten East, also from GFK, had a 219 (112-107), Malina Snead of ECS shot a 227 (116-111), and Kaybree Fonstad of the Oxbow Prairie Horizons School shot a 271 (148-123).
hours to worthy charities. Each recipient has helped to make life better for the people of our province.”
e King Charles III Coronation Medal was created to mark the coronation of King Charles III, which took place on May 6, 2023. It is the rst Canadian commemorative medal to mark a coronation. e rst King Charles III Coronation Medal was awarded to Saskatchewan citizens on May 6, 2024. White Bear First Nations artist Michael Lonechild was among those recognized.
is award can also be given posthumously, provided the individual was alive on the date of the coronation.
