The Advance | Vol. 106 | Issue 49

Living Hope Readies New Facility

s Letter a nta to S Inside, Page 22

Read the story on Page 30

Monday, December 21, 2015

VOLUME 106 | ISSUE 49 | www.gulllakeadvance.com

SANTA’S ROCKIN’ The CP Holiday Train rolled through southwest Saskatchewan on Friday, making stops in both Swift Current and Maple Creek. Performers on the train included Kira Isabella and Doc Walker ... and of course Santa Claus! The Holiday Train has raised close to $10.6 million and 3.3 million pounds of food since 1999 in support of the Salvation Army Food Bank. Photo by Beth Jarrell

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| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Photos by Shelley Drever & Beth Jarrell

Holiday Train THE ADVANCE

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YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015

5

Chamberlin faces further charges in sex crimes case As a result of the ongoing investigation against him, Chamberlin has seen additional charges, including two sexual assault charges, an invitation to sexual touching charge, and a count each of sexual interference, sexual exploitation and a corrupting children charge.

By Jordan Parker

Cabri man Ryan Chamberlin was arrested again Friday, March 20 and charged with additional crimes as more victims came forward in the case against him.

From the Top of the Pile ~ Brian ZinChuk ~

These are on top of the sexual assault, invitation to sexual touching, sexual interference and sexual exploitation charges laid against him in late February.

He appeared in Swift Current Provincial Court March 23, and was released on an undertaking before a judge on conditions.

Chamberlin, 39, was a hockey coach in several southern Saskatchewan communities throughout his adult life.

There is a publication ban in place to protect the identity of the victims, and Chamberlin’s next court appearance will be April 13 at 9:30 a.m.

The investigation is ongoing, and investigators invite people with additional information to come forward.

D. Wayne Elhard, MLA

Would Obama be a slave today?

It doesn’t seem that long ago when I wrote a column about a remarkable series published since 2011 by the New York Times on the U.S. Civil War. Now, it appears, that series will soon come to a close.

Called Disunion, the collection of pieces followed the developments of the Civil War in something akin to real time, albeit 150 years later. As events unfolded throughout the course of the war, historians and analysts discussed what impact they had.

Disunion can be found at opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com.

UR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER TUESDAY, 2015 5 I just realized that in a few weeks the MARCH 150th31,anniversary of the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House will come up. It seems

By Jordan Parker As a result of the ongoingremarkably investigation against him, that These are on top ofonly the sexual assault, invitation short, the war lasted four to Chamberlin has seen additional charges, including sexual touching, sexual interference and sexual exyears. n Chamberlin was arrested again two sexual assault charges, an invitation to sexual ploitation charges laid against him in late February. and charged with additional crimes touching charge, and a countPerhaps each of sexual He appeared Provincial itinterferseems so short due intoSwift theCurrent contrast withCourt me forward in the case against him. ence, sexual exploitation and a corrupting children March 23, and was released on an undertaking before how long the United was deployed to charge. a judgeStates on conditions.

Chamberlin, 39, was hockey in several Afghanistan, the nation’s longest wara in its coach history, southern Saskatchewan communities throughout his and Iraq. Iraq is not as wrapped up as we thought adult life.

There is a publication ban inincluding place to protect the it was, as the U.S. and numerous allies, identity of the victims, and Chamberlin’s next court ~ Brian ZinChuk ~ Canada, are getting pulled appearanceinto will bethe AprilSyria/Iraq 13 at 9:30 a.m. ISIS The investigation is ongoing, and investigators inconflict. vite people with additional information to come forI think that’s whatward. stands out the most for me, having lived during at time when the U.S., and by D. Wayne war Elhard, MLA extension, Canada, has been at continual since Cypress Hills Constituency 2001 (As we’ve withdrawn fromMaking Afghanistan, it your voice heard in Regina.

401 the Redcoatpeople Drive take long To m that long ago when I wrote a coldevelopment of a greater didn’t national spirit rather than to deploy to Iraw).

P.O. Box 308, Eastend, SK. S0N 0T0 markable series published since 2011 an emphasis on “states’ rights,” was one 1-877-703-3374 of ourwhich time, thisof has become the newPhone: normal. cypresshills.mla@sasktel.net k Times on the U.S. Civil War. Now, the causes of the war.

It century wasn’t always like this. In most cases wars www.wayneelhard.ca series will soon come to a close.

It’s hard, in our current 21st context, to nion, the collection of pieces folbelieve that men would volunteer to fight, and inshort and often brutal. One way or were relatively lopments of the Civil War in somemany cases, die for the cause of “states’s rights.” In person could expect an end at some eal time, albeit 150 years later. As this context, those rights another, had a lot to doawith slavd throughout the course of the war, ery. But can you imagine anyone here today volunSUMMER STUDENT point, with someone “winning.”

That’s not somenalysts discussed what impact they teering to stop a bullet for provincial rights in EMPLOYMENT Canada? Or even North thing Dakota rights we across are the seeing today.

Modern OPPORTUNITY war may be The Town of Gull Lake is accepting be found at opinionator.blogs.ny49th? The whole concept seems absurd. “won” opening weeks, thenemployment drag onwith forapplicationsbut for student the I still try to wrap my head aroundin thethe key issue Town Maintenance Department d that in a few weeks the 150th anof the Civil War, slavery. ever.

How is it that not-so long for the summer of 2015. e Confederate surrender at Appoago, slavery was a common practice? (In some parts Applicants Indeed, today’s posting ponders themust: question of House will come up. It seems of the world, it still is).

• be self-motivating ort, that the war only lasted four Let’s consider some other what-ifs. the What Confederacy if the whether could have won the war.

• require minimal supervision Confederacy did win the war, not conquering the have a valid driver’s licensesales Storesucceeding? & More The “what-ifs” cotton ms so short due to the contrast with Your North, Gift but successfully Would we stillrange from •increased Apply in writing stating experience to: United States was deployed to have slavery today? Would it extend all the way to Town of Gull Lake before the blockade took hold to General Robert E. e nation’s longestThe war instaff its history, California?Closet If not, what wouldlike haveto caused to time to at Shannon’s would takeit this Box 150 s not as wrapped up as we thought end? Would a Spartacus-like revolt have been of command.

One what-if centred 12-2eow Gull Lake, SK. S0N 1A0on the Wish you Lee’s all slave a style

mberlin faces further charges in sex crimes case

m the Top of the Pile

uld Obama be a slave today?

Shannon’s Closet

.S. and numerous allies, including ting pulled into the Syria/Iraq ISIS

inevitable? Would the North have taken another

Brian Zinchuk is editor of Pipeline News.

He can be reached at brian.zinchuk@sasktel.net

Happy Holidays!

gulllaketown.admin@sasktel.net

shot at it, 10 to 20 Would there have Merry Christmas &years a later?

Happy New Year

been a series of continental conflicts for decades? to thank you your fractured continued support. what stands out the mostand for me, If the U.S.all hadfor remained into the 20th Wethetake in providing personal service in this uring at time when U.S., great and by pride century, what would the impacts have been globda, has been at continual war since shopping. ally? Would-itShannon, have tipped theKristel, balance in the First on-line Michelle e withdrawn from Afghanistan, it World War in favour of the Allies? Would it have g to deploy to Iraw). To the people been the decisive player in the Second World War, Hours: s has become the new normal. leading toHoliday its superpower status, or would it have ways like this. In most cases wars been too24 concerned aboutat a future conflict with its Dec. – closed 4:00pm short and often brutal. One way or southern neighbour? Would a slave-nation like the Dec. 25looked – closed on could expect an end at some confederacy have kindly on Fascism? Per– open – 4:00 pm and meone “winning.” That’s not some- Dec. haps26 it would have noon even allied with German eeing today. Modern war may be Italy?

Regular hours Dec. 28-31 pening weeks, but then drag on forAnd would there be a black president now? Or January 1-7 closed for inventory would Barack Obama have belonged to some masCHECK MY PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION y’s posting ponders the question of ter, FACEBOOK with a whip in hand?

development of a greater national spirit rather than an emphasis on “states’ rights,” which was one of the causes of the war.

It’s hard, in our current 21st century context, to believe that men would volunteer to fight, and in many cases, die for the cause of “states’s rights.” In this context, those rights had a lot to do with slavery. But can you imagine anyone here today volunteering to stop a bullet for provincial rights in Canada? Or even North Dakota rights across the 49th? The whole concept seems absurd.

I still try to wrap my head around the key issue of the Civil War, slavery. How is it that not-so long ago, slavery was a common practice? (In some parts of the world, it still is).

Let’s consider some other what-ifs. What if the Confederacy did win the war, not conquering the North, but successfully succeeding? Would we still have slavery today? Would it extend all the way to California? If not, what would have caused it to end? Would a Spartacus-like slave revolt have been inevitable? Would the North have taken another shot at it, 10 to 20 years later? Would there have been a series of continental conflicts for decades?

If the U.S. had remained fractured into the 20th century, what would the impacts have been globally? Would it have tipped the balance in the First World War in favour of the Allies? Would it have been the decisive player in the Second World War, leading to its superpower status, or would it have been too concerned about a future conflict with its southern neighbour? Would a slave-nation like the confederacy have looked kindly on Fascism? Perhaps it would have even allied with German and Italy?

And would there be a black president now? Or would Barack Obama have belonged to some master, with a whip in hand?

day of

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YOUR GIFT STORE AND MORE! nfederacy could have won the war. range from increased cotton sales Brian Zinchuk is editor of Pipeline News.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

The fire-damaged property is taped off the day after the fire. Meanwhile, a truckload of donated furniture makes its way from Swift Current. Photos by Kate Winquist

House fire brings together southwest

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

W

hen the news came in on December 13 that Amanda Dreger’s house burned down overnight, the southwest sprung into action.

Immediately, donations came pouring in from across the southwest to Dreger and her son, Blair. Now that the dust has settled, the family recently had a chance to talk about the generosity from strangers.

“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has donated to Amanda and her son,” sister Jessica Chapman said. “We really can’t tell you how much this has meant to us in their time of need. You all have gone above and beyond. Amanda would like people to know that any gifts she receives that she

can’t use, she’ll pay forward to someone else who is in need.”

Chapman says that since word spread about the fire, they have received many donations, both physical and monetary.

“We’ve received a lot of everything,” she said. “It’s all about sorting through it now and seeing what she needs, what she’s gotten a few of… We’re confident that it will all get good use, though.”

People ask what we need all the time but we don’t even know. We know what we’ve received, so it’s easier to let us know what you’re dropping off stuff if you are dropping off stuff, so we can know if we have it already.”

In addition to gifts of physical items, Chapman’s sister Rina set up a donation page via the website GoFundMe. While their campaign is still running, Chapman says that it has exceeded their

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“The GoFundMe has gone above and beyond what we ever expected it to do, and that’s amazing,” she said. “When my younger sister was setting up the account, we aimed for $1000 and we didn’t think we’d get that far, we said even if we got close it would be amazing.”

She says that as they watch the dollars come in, the family finds it being from unexpected sources.

“There are lots of names on there that I don’t know. Some we do, but there are people who just give money without even knowing us, and it gets shared on Facebook, so people will give that way, too.”

Dreger says that the support from not only the community of Shaunavon, but the whole southwest has been more

than she could have dreamed of.

“We’re just so overwhelmed. So appreciative. It’s amazing the people who have come forward, and not just in Shaunavon, it’s the whole southwest.

Even up further north, people who I’ve never met are asking what they can do.”

Dreger says that her immediate plan for the future is settling into her new place and sorting through the donations they have already received.

“We haven’t been even able to go in the house yet to see what the damage is,” Amanda said. “ A close family friend has let me rent a property that I’m able to move into right away, and it’s furnished.”

She says that even though she and her family have gone through a tragedy, the generosity from the community has made it all a little easier.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

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5

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Giving all they’ve got How Maple Creek got lucky in the form of Captains Charlotte and Edward Dean

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

I

t’s a Tuesday morning at 9 a.m., and the Maple Creek Salvation Army is bustling with people. A group of volunteers brings in box after box of collected supplies, while someone diligently stands with a clipboard recording all of it.

Across the room, Army Captains Edward and Charlotte Dean stand with a man, speaking in low tones. He’s trying to find a way to Saskatoon for a medical appointment, and has nowhere else to turn.

For him, the bus ticket and hotel voucher that the Salvation Army gives him will mean the world. For Captains Ed and Charlotte, however, it’s one of a thousand small acts of kindness they will complete before Christmas.

“When I’m helping someone who can’t help themselves, I believe I’m doing what God has called us to do,” Capt. Ed said.

“We’re fulfilling the mandate the founder of the Salvation Army started doing 150 years ago.”

“I’ve always said that if the Salvation Army doesn’t help, who will? We’ve been in this community for 99 years. We’re still doing what we began doing; helping those who need help.”

The Maple Creek Salvation Army covers a square area of 10,000 km, stretching from Swift Current up to Leader, down to communities such as Eastend.

December is their busiest time of year for them, as it is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

“The food bank runs 365 days a year; it’s not just Christmas,” he said. “While this is our big push, the food we get over Christmas is used for the full year.

But the donations we get are not only food, we get money too, and we use that throughout the year as well.”

The money gathered over the Christmas season is used for items such as prescriptions for those who cannot afford them, bus tickets, gas costs to drive people to medical appointments and even hotel rooms for people who need to commute to larger city centres for appointments, amongst others.

“We’re always driving people places,” he said. “A lot of seniors are stuck. You’ve got a guy living on a pension who can barely make his rent, and he has $100 dollars left over for groceries at the end of the month. What is he supposed to do if he has to go for a biopsy?”

Capt. Ed says that if he can improve how the system functions in his district even a small amount, he will feel like he has accomplished his job.

“If I think there’s an injustice, I’ll let it be known,” he said. “For example, right now to register with social services, you have to sit on the phone for 1,2, sometimes 3 hours. So I called the MLA and said ‘look, this is wrong.’

You’re asking people to use the minutes they have on their phone for an hour and a half phone call. A lot of people don’t even have minutes or a cell phone.”

The Captains say they changed the

system by doing some of the work themselves. People who need assistance can go into the Salvation Army and receive help filling out a form, which they then fax over to the right people, saving the cost of a cell phone bill.

“One thing we hear time and again is that people who are on social assistance are lazy,” Capt. Charlotte said.

“They probably spend twice the amount of hours that you spend working just trying to fill out forms and get through to get their monthly help. They do not just sit back and collect a cheque, that’s hardly true.”

Capt. Ed believes that some of the problem stems from the small amount of money given to seniors in social assistance, a number that hasn’t changed despite rising costs in smaller communities such as Maple Creek.

“The biggest problem here is that rent has gone up. Social security gives seniors $427 dollars a month for rent. You can’t find a place anywhere for that money. So the money they get for groceries goes towards rent, and then there’s no money for groceries,” he said.

“We’ll never turn anyone away from food,” Capt. Charlotte said. “The habits of parents do not constitute starvation for children… or the parents. People make mistakes. We’re human. That doesn’t mean you should starve.”

And starve they don’t. The Salvation Army brings in thousands of pounds of food at Christmas time, each item painstakingly checked for weight and expiry date, one of the bigger problems they face.

“A lot of people say ‘well I’ve always eaten expired food, why can’t they?’ But it’s not like it’s just expired, we’re talking years past. Sometimes people get upset, they think we should be grateful, but when it becomes a safety issue… Just because you’re in need doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have quality food,” Capt.

Charlotte said.

“I tell my volunteers that if you won’t eat it yourself, don’t put it on the shelf, because you can’t expect others to, regardless of who they are,” Capt. Ed added. “When we get into stuff that’s from before 2013, it’s absolutely no good.”

The record, they say, is a box of pudding donated recently from the mid 1980’s.

“I’ve always said that if the Salvation Army doesn’t help, who will? We’ve been in this community for 99 years. We’re still doing what we began doing; helping those who need help.”

Community-Minded The Captains have lived in Maple Creek for almost 10 years, having moved first to Saskatoon, then the southwest from Toronto, their previous home for more than 17 years.

“We both grew up connected to the Salvation Army and the church, but we didn’t become officers until 10 years ago. I used to drive transit for the City of Toronto,” Capt. Ed said. “In the Salvation Army the pastors are sent from place to place. We trained in Newfoundland, and they said we were going west, so out we came.”

“We’ve been very happy in Maple Creek,” Capt. Charlotte added. “After nine years, it becomes home. You just know

A cheque presentation by the CP Holiday Train in the amount of $5,500 is presented to Captain Dean and Maple Creek mayor, Barry Rudd. Photo by Shelley Drever

Captains Edward and Charlotte Dean. Photo by Beth Jarrell

the ground. You know every field and bend and everything, and it becomes so familiar.”

For both of them, the smaller community-feel is exactly what helps them know when to offer help to those who need it.

“This isn’t’ the type of place where you only see someone every six months,” he said. “The people here we see every dayat the grocery store, on the street, they may even live next to me. There’s that level of closeness here that is so nice.”

I’m not just a pastor. I’m a community person. I’m not a volunteer who’s here today, gone tomorrow. What I do is with passion, and with my heart.”

For Capt. Ed, being a community person means being inclusive to the entire community, not just those who attend his church.

“The Salvation Army will be a part of Syrians who settle in Canada,” he said.

“Some of the comments I’ve heard about the Syrian people coming…I stood up in church one Sunday and said ‘Folks, this needs to stop, because 99 percent of the information you have is wrong.’

Not all Muslim people are bad people.

I’ve considered having an Imam come in and speak on the truths of being a Muslim, and open it to the community to understand what it is and isn’t.”

“There’s that instant fear of “they’re Syrians, so they’re terrorists. Most of them are families, wanting a way of life with nothing to go back to. They’re not coming to fight; they’re coming to get away from the fighting.”

For him, it’s all about being open and

available for the community, whether they are newcomers or not. In the 10 years they have lived in Maple Creek, the couple has taken their yearly four weeks of vacation only once, to visit Europe and the site the Salvation Army was first conceived.

“He spends most of his time on the road. People will call me and ask if he’s here, and I’ll just laugh. He has an office, but we mostly stick stuff in it,” Capt.

Charlotte said.

“In order to be in a part of the community, I need to be in the community.

That’s not something that can be done from inside an office, or even in Maple Creek,” he added. “When the Salvation Army appointed me to Maple Creek and area, they appointed me to community.

That’s my ministry. I’m not an office person. I’m a community person, and community means reaching everyone around.”

Even though he may stray far from home to serve his ministry, Captain Ed says that he couldn’t picture doing anything else.

“When I joined, I started being involved. To this day, I’ll bring food hampers to families who need them, even if it’s at three in the morning, and the joy on their face is…it’s no other,” he said.

“Fires, disasters…I’ll be the first one there, and the last one to leave. This face is one that’s going to always be around.

I don’t consider it that I give, I’m just doing what I’m called to do, and that is to reach out. Because tomorrow, it might be me that needs that help.”

6

THE ADVANCE

Commentary FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

FROM THE TOP OF THE PILE

Oil has a trickle down It is possible to be out-Star Warsed effect everywhere

BY B R I A N Z I N C H U K

brian.zinchuk@sasktel.net

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he energy sector is the nucleus of the southwest, providing energy to everything around it.

Everything around here -every upward swing in the economy - can be attributed to oil.

Our profits and our successes come from one major industry, with agriculture never far behind. But there’s one problem with a structure where every economic spinoff comes from one source.

What happens when the tap stops running and the cash stops flowing?

Some may look at the major dive in oil prices and assume it’s just an Alberta problem, but they’d be wrong. Less oil money means less workers. Many of Alberta’s oil rig workers come from Saskatchewan or the Maritimes. so not only have Albertans lost their jobs, but we are now seeing strain all over the country.

Nearing Christmas, families are being affected with out-of-work parents feeling the stresses mount and the bills pile up. Young Maritimer kids are moving back to their parents’ homes because that better life they expected out west just truly wasn’t there.

Things have recently hit a breaking point, with Alberta’s suicide rate increasing 30 per cent between January and June this year.

Last year saw 252 suicides in that timeframe, with this year showing a whopping 327, and it doesn’t take too much math to surmise that this massive increase might have something to do with the astronomical amount of job losses and layoffs.

“I hope that the end result is that more people are supported, less people

are taking their own life, less people are becoming addicted to substances that often have very tragic outcomes at the end of the day, and that we have more supports and less needs in the long run,” said Alberta Health Minister Sarah Hoffman.

Oil going downhill means less foot traffic in restaurants. Less gas station fill-ups. It means that the luxuries of road guys coming through town and using our services are dwindling, because all these guys have lost the reason to come through.

The truth is that the loss of a job -- that financial security you’ve been holding onto so long - can be devastating. It can tear a family apart and send one into a spiral of depression.

Losing a job can make you feel bitter. It can make you angry at the world. But mostly, losing your job can make you feel ashamed, and that’s the stigma. Even if your layoff had nothing to do with performance, you wonder what the next person who reads your resume will think. You feel hopeless about your performance and your job prospects.

But the truth is, job loss is something that affects everyone at one point or another, and it’s not a shameful thing. It’s a chance at a new life.

These suicides are awful, but they need to act as a catalyst. We need to see that these senseless losses of life aren’t helping anybody, and we need to be able to focus on preventative measures.

If this province is going to invest right now, mental health services is the way to go. With the economy how it is, even an ear once a week can save a life.

We’d love to hear from you.

Letters to the Editor are always welcome The Advance welcomes letters to the editor of up to 400 words.

The deadline for submission is 4:00 p.m. on Thursday for the next edition.

All letters must be signed and include a phone number for verification plus the name of the writer’s hometown. Unsigned letters will be discarded. The Advance will not publish phone numbers and addresses. Letters may be subject to editing for length, clarity, grammar and legality. The Advance reserves the right to decline to publish letters. Letters are the opinions of their writers only and do not reflect the opinions of The Advance.

I

think everyone who, as a kid, once imagined himself as Luke Skywalker or Han Solo thinks of themselves as a really big fan. I know I’ve always thought so. Indeed, for a while there, I thought I might be in the top 3 percentile of rabid fans.

Not even close.

I’ve never lined up for days, peeing and defecating Godknows-where to wait in line for movie admission. My toy collection was quite modest as a kid, when they were given to me, and never really developed as an adult, when I could buy my own. My house isn’t decorated in gaudy memorabilia, a fact I’m sure my wife is glad. But I’ve still considered myself a BIG FAN. In this week leading up to the release of Star Wars The Force Awakens, I have come to humbly realize the Force is very weak in me. It hasn’t really awakened as much as I’d like. I blame it on a low midichlorian count. (I would see a specialist about that, but I’m afraid he’d tell me there’s nothing he could do about it.)

I am missing the company Christmas party to take my son

to it. My wife and daughter have now, barring some Jedi mind trick, begged off attending the premier with me. I’m even buying an ad for my photography that will run in the local theatre before the movie starts.

But I have never, ever met someone who out-Star Warsed me like Wade Baldwin.

I first met Wade several years ago, when I profiled him and two other mixed martial arts fighters who worked in the oilpatch. Awesome guy.

His name came up when discussing the premier of the new Star Wars movie with my publishing, with the suggestion that I should do a story on Wade’s tattoos.

Let’s just say the Force is strong with this one.

His entire back is covered, shoulder-to-shoulder, neck to waist, in a giant Star Wars tattoo. I’ve never seen anything of the kind before.

There’s the Death Star II under construction between his shoulder blades. Darth Vader is prominent at the base of his spine. The rest is covered in characters and ships.

But what’s 56 hours under a needle?

When I visited, I got to meet his one-week old daughter, Rey. She came a week early. Her

due date was a week before the movie premier.

“Rey” also happens to be the name of the heroine in the upcoming movie.

I feel so insignificant in my fandom now. I could have named my kid Luke. Han, might have been a bit harder to slip past my wife, and Leia, equally so. Qui-gon would have been a lot harder, but possible. I wonder how many kids are named Obi-wan each year?

Now, custom-built light sabers and collectible toys may have been out of my reach financially.

But naming my kid after a character, that wouldn’t have cost anything! Why didn’t I think of that?

(Okay, a divorce lawyer might have cost a nickle or too. But I’d at least get to see Luke and Leia on weekends and holidays, when we could watch movies together. All six of them.)

No, I won’t be in costume on Dec. 18. I won’t have any tattoos, or appropriately named children with me. I guess I’ll just have to enjoy the movie like a normal person.

As if that were ever the case.

Brian Zinchuk is editor of Pipeline News. He can be reached at brian.zinchuk@sasktel.net.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

CUPE and Private MRI Clinics I

have never written a letter to the paper before, but after continually watching CUPE ads on the TV against private MRI clinics coming to Saskatchewan I feel compelled to.

This is my story, which I wish I didn’t have to share with you, because I am a private person and don’t like to share these things, but I feel I must after watching this ad numerous times.

I got blood cancer this year which spread to my spine causing paralysis from the chest down because of tumors on my spine.

When I was first being diagnosed the doctor asked me if I was willing to pay for an MRI in Calgary. I said yes, as I was scared and in so much pain. The MRI was done in three days, where it showed five tumors on my back. If I had not gone to Calgary I know I would not be here today. I am not one of those rich friends of the government, as this ad implies, who has a lot of money to jump to the top of the line using a credit card. I am not rich and I am not poor. We have five quarters and rent three more. I go to bed every night and wake up every morning wondering how my family is going to make it. The cost

of the MRI was $1550 plus gas and food, as we live $500+ miles from Calgary.

What I don’t understand is why the head of CUPE wants to toy with people’s lives? Mine included. What is wrong with private clinics if lives will be saved? These private MRIs will actually create jobs in Saskatchewan and put the money in our economy. This would provide more opportunities to keep more of our children in our own province.

Why not make Saskatchewan a leader in health care instead of a follower? It’s a billion dollar industry. Every time I see this ad, I get more and more p*ssed off. I am getting to watch my 11-year-old son grow up, for how long I don’t know and watch the sun rise and the sun set. It wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t go to a private MRI clinic in Alberta.

This is for both CUPE and your government Premier Wall. Start with the things that will matter to people who are or are going to be in the hospital. I spent three months in Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon for cancer treatment and a week in Swift Current Hospital for a bladder infection.

The food I was told is actually

trucked in from Regina, not made in Swift Current. The food in Saskatoon was gourmet compared to Swift Current; to put it bluntly, it was horrible. I remember getting the dry heaves at one dinner by just looking at it and smelling it. How can trucking food in from another city actually provide enough nutrition to sick patients? Not only problems with food, but during my recent hospitalization in Saskatoon there wasn’t even an extra pillow on the ward to put my feet up to keep them from swelling.

I have to say the staff at SGEU are AMAZING people; the Darcy’s, Tracey’s, Choi’s, Jen’s, Ann’s, etc. It is a tough and demanding environment to work in. I felt very blessed to be taken care of by such caring people.

In closing, employees of the SGEU, keep up the great work! Premier Wall, your government needs to use some common sense on the simplest things like hospital food for patients. To the brain of CUPE, stop playing politics with mine and my fellow Saskatchewan citizen’s lives.

Tim Wold, Frontier, SK

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Legal Tourettes

BY M E G A N L AC E L L E

megan@gulllakeadvance.com

I

t’s pretty typical that, come January, everyone will be making resolutions.

“This year I’m finally going to get in shape” or “I’m finally going to renovate the bathroom” or “I’m going to tell Aunt Milly that wig isn’t her style” – the list goes on.

For some, the New Year is a fresh start, for others, it’s a time to stumble haphazardly into a new year, drink in hand and ready to build on the chaos from the year before. I’m in the latter half.

Looking back on the year, I’m pretty happy with my life progress. In fact, this year I learned multiple things. I learned that given the opportunity, babies can and will poop in the tub, law school is surprisingly, hard and I still fit into a dress I bought when I was in high school.

7

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

However, looking at the number of chocolate wrappers around my computer that last fact might stay in 2015.

Honestly, right now, I’m so burnt out from writing exams that I’m surprised my sentences aren’t filled with legal tourettes. I swear every time someone asks me a question I can’t help but blurt out something that doesn’t make any sense.

For example, “How are you today, Megan?”

Response: “PITH AND SUBSTANCE! The case is ultra vires because it touches the core and invokes interjurisidictional immunity!!” This response is usually followed by some heavy breathing and a general posture of an 80-year-old gorilla. If I had social skills or a healthy back before law school, I certainly don’t now.

Phone calls from home usually involve me sighing, a lot. Explaining how I’m not

sure what I’m doing and I haven’t left my basement room in three days. I’ve even moved my computer desk next to my bed so when I get up in the morning I just have to walk one step to get to my desk and start studying the next subject.

The whole process is a bit rotten.

Aside from that, I’ve looked to Christmas as my therapy. I hit that therapy a little too hard. Now, not only have my social skills diminished, but so have my funds.

Instead of buying my boyfriend one present this year, I decided to buy him five. This pattern continues in regards to friends and relatives. Now all my ramen noodle money for the next three years is wrapped chaotically with gold gift paper covered in glitter in the one corner of my room. A reminder of the irresponsible decisions I’m still capable of.

Finals is also the time I learned I have the feet of a 67-year-old man; yes, he must be 67 to relate to me. The greatest joy I have in a day is sticking my feet in a tub of hot water and waiting for them to regain feeling. The circulation to my extremities is sub-par at best; meaning every winter my toes turn purple at least

six times.

Also, I’ve been told my appearance has taken a turn for the worst. I showed up to my contract law exam last week to have a fellow classmate look at me and remark “Wow, you look awful.”

I spewed out a string of obscenities and pulled my ball cap a little lower to hide the mountainous acne that had decided to make residence on my face. Oh, the joy of exams.

Only one more exam until I can resume being a functional human being – complete with washed hair, make-up and jeans instead of sweatpants. In the meantime, I continue to survive off the kindness of cousins in the areas; some send homemade care packages while others take me out for supper. Without this generosity, it is almost guaranteed that I would have resorted to making Ketchup a food group.

In essence, my first shot at law school exams was a real joy; a back pain inducing, dietary train wreck of firing neurons and legal tourettes type of joy.

I can’t wait until April when I can do it all over again.

‘Tis the season for Star Wars: The Brand Awareness holiday tradition

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

W

ow, does anyone else feel as if December just zoomed on by? I swear it was only yesterday that we were complaining about the rapid-fire transition from Halloween to Christmas, and yet here we are, not even a week away from the big day.

For my family, it’s kind of a double-whammy this season. My mother’s birthday is only 3 days before Christmas Day, so my father and I always scramble to purchase the perfect gifts for two separate, yet equally important days.

You’d think by now we would have learned not to leave it all until the last minute, but we never do.

If you happen to see two frantic people rushing around town on December 20, know that it’s probably us. Send help. Or gift ideas.

I suppose that after 20-odd years of rushing around like fools, it’s almost a tradition for us.

And of course, if there’s one thing this time of year is filled with, it’s tradition.

I spent a lot of time this week and last talking to people around the southwest about their favourite holiday tradition, and it sure sparked some memories of my family’s own.

Leading up to the big day, my mom will always, without fail buy me an advent calendar. Even when I was living in Toronto, she would spend 20 dollars to express post me a 5 dollar calendar full of sweets. When I’d call her to thank her for her ridiculousness, she’s scoff and say “it’s tradition, we don’t have a choice!”

The night before Christmas was always the lon-

gest evening of the year when I was younger, so my parents always allowed me to open one present in the evening. Even today, my mom will slip me something small from a stocking to open early.

There are relatively few of us to celebrate Christmas morning, which is probably a blessing in disguise given how crazy this time of the year is. My Nana will come over with her old yellow laundry basket full of gifts, and both my parents can be found in the kitchen whipping up my mom’s famous strata.

After that, we’ll head into the family room and plop down under the big tree, all in our respective places. Even my cat, Abby, will open a fake mouse or two for her Christmas present.

There’s so much more than just traditions of receiving, however. We don’t forget that this time of year is also about giving, as is true for most people in the southwest. The generosity I’ve seen exhibited here over the last two months is astounding.

Whether it’s helping someone back on their feet, providing furniture and clothing to new Canadian families or even helping me get settled to life down here, southwest Saskatchewaners are certainly earning their reputations of being kind and compassionate.

No matter how you spend the holiday season, whether with family, friends or somewhere in between, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and happy holidays from the bottom of my heart.

C

hristmas comes early for every sci-fi geek and Lucas fanatic this year, as December 18 marks the official opening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The film, which will have been open for three days when this column hits stands, is sitting as one of the most anticipated films of the decade, and maybe even all time.

Awareness is at an all-time high for the picture, which saw the rights acquired by Disney in order to make this new film, with J.J. Abrams, the man responsible for resurrecting Star Trek in 2009, on board to direct.

This serves as both a passion project for Abrams and a labour of love for the original cast and all involved. Fans are clamouring, and if pre-ticket sales were any

indication, it’ll be a blockbuster of epic proportions.

But with great expectations comes great responsibility, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the force of marketing has pushed its way into the proceedings.

The problem with marketing and advertising for certain products when it comes to film is that it influences the proceedings.

There was a huge issue when Daniel Craig’s James Bond was driving an Astin Martin in Quantum of Solace, lingering shots on the car mucking up the film and leaving unnecessary time and space in an otherwise-interesting film.

You feel the subtle hints every time you see a character eat McDonalds or shop at Wal-Mart.

While these are everyday places, it makes the viewing experience feel sullied.

So when I see Star Wars labels on orange, Star Wars-themed

Fiats, lightsabers, collectibles, toys, Subway cups and all other manner of marketing tools, it makes me wonder just how much is too much.

When you have this many companies to answer to, just how much subliminal messaging slips into the film that wouldn’t otherwise be there?

How many opportunities for shameless marketing are pushed inside our favourite movies? How many times does a Coke bottle appear in a summer popcorn flick?

All I’ll say right now is that Star Wars has a fan base that, regardless of Disney’s marketing ploys, expects brilliance out of this picture.

So regardless of all the marketing, I just hope the force is strong with the movie set to unleash the imaginations of three generations of fans.

8

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

O Christmas Tree

BY E R L S V E N D S E N

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he Christmas tree is an essential element of the season’s celebration. And has been for centuries, even before there was a Christ or a Christmas.

The earliest records are of Romans decorating trees with bits of metal for Saturnalia, a winter solstice celebration honouring Saturn. In the northern countries, evergreen boughs were brought into the home as a reminder that winter and darkness was a passing season and that the sun, green growth and farmers’ harvests would come again. The greenery also added colour to a season that was dominated by white, brown and grey and helped to freshen the air in peasant homes that they usually shared with their livestock. Evergreens also had a mystical or magical quality in early cultures. They symbolized eternal life for the Vikings and Druids. And they contained good spirits that could overcome the evil magic that “killed” deciduous trees and protected homes from evil spirits.

Because of their close association with pagan rituals, early Christians were forbidden to decorate their homes with evergreens, especially around the winter solstice (December 21). The proscription against using evergreens continued into the 18th Century where in England, the Puritans forbade observing Christmas believing such celebrations promoted irreligious frivolity. But the ban was not universal. Riga, capital of Latvia, claims the first Christmas tree in 1510. Germans too celebrated the season with evergreen trees and could buy a tree at a lot as early 1531 in Alsace (now part of France).

Initially, the Norse and German pagan solstice tradition of decorating trees was repurposed by Christians – not to celebrate Christ’s birth, but to symbolize Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden: they decorated ‘paradise trees’ with apples on December 24, feast day for Adam and Eve. By the early 1600s, trees were decorated more extensively with paper, foil, tin

shapes, lace, dolls, fruit, sweets, small gifts, and tinsel, all topped with a star to symbolize the star from the first Christmas night.

Martin Luther is usually credited with adding lights. Walking home one evening, he was struck with the beauty of the stars set against the backdrop of evergreens. In order to recapture the scene and to use it to represent Christ as the Light of the World (John 8:12), Luther attached candles to his Christmas tree. While the fire marshal may not approve today, my fondest Christmas memory is as a six-year-old at my grandfather’s house in Norway. It was our first Christmas on the farm and, to make it extra special, he decorated the tree with lit candles.

Meanwhile, over in England, Queen Victoria erected the first Christmas tree at Windsor Castle in 1841.

This was not a random whim by the Queen but likely a tradition that her husband, Prince Albert, brought from his native Germany. Taking their cue from their monarch, the rest of the country started putting up Christmas trees.

In North America, Christmas trees didn’t make it into mainstream until the 1850s because of the strong Puritan influence. In 1851, Mark Carr started the first tree lot in the US, selling trees for 5 and 10 cents; larger trees sold for 25 cents. What a deal!

President Pierce really put the whole Christmas tree notion in North America in full gear by putting the first Christmas tree up in the White House in 1856.

Edward Johnson, Edison’s assistant, came up with the idea of using a string of lights to decorate trees.

Certainly a much safer alternative to using lit candles. This made decorating outdoor trees a possibility and, by 1912, decorated trees in public spaces were beginning to be a common sight.

This column is provided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (www.saskperennial.ca; hortscene@ yahoo.com; NEW www.facebook.com/saskperennial).

Check out our Bulletin Board or Calendar for upcoming garden information sessions, workshops and tours.

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Saskatchewanderer wraps up 2015 stint CONTRIBUTED

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

A

shlyn George’s stint as the 2015 Saskatchewanderer—the most successful year yet— wrapped up at the end of last week.

The 28 year-old, who plans on writing a book while pursuing a career in social and travel media, will continue to travel globally. Her plans include a trip to Antarctica—the only continent she hasn’t yet visited.

“I had a wonderful time touring my home province this past year,” George said. “Saskatchewan is an incredible location no matter what you’re searching for—terrific scenery, outdoor adventures, a fulfilling career, or a place to launch your business.”

George successfully showcased Saskatchewan as a great place to live, work and play, gaining more than 20,000 followers since January through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. She flew with the Snowbirds, caught a monster northern pike at a fly-in fishing camp, spent a week with geologists in north-

ern Saskatchewan and learned how drone technology helps Saskatchewan farmers bring in big yields.

Her videos were watched widely. A video profiling Solo Italia, a pasta supplier based in Ogema, received more than 24,000 views on Facebook. Another video highlighting the University of Saskatchewan’s Rayner Dairy Research Farm received more than 16,000 Facebook views.

“Ashlyn took the Saskatchewanderer program to another level and made a lasting impression wherever she travelled,” Minister responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Jeremy Harrison said.

“Operators consistently shared with Tourism Saskatchewan their appreciation of her knowledge, enthusiasm and genuine interest in the work that drives Saskatchewan’s tourism sector. She is a passionate and influential ambassador for Saskatchewan, and we wish her the very best in her adventures ahead.”

Applications for the 2016 Saskatchewanderer position closed Monday, November 9.

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Call Kate 306-264-7559 to view.

Only the building is for sale - NOT the business.

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9

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Report from the Legislature D. Wayne Elhard, MLA Cypress Hills

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Email your photos or story ideas to editor@gulllakeadvance.com or feel free phone us for a chat 306 672 3373.

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ANDERSON & COMPANY BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS James G. Anderson, Q.C. 51 - 1st Ave. N.W., Box 610 Neil G. Gibbings Swift Current, SK. S9H 0M5 Morris A. Froslie Phone 773-2891 Fax 778-3364 email: anderson.company@sasktel.net James M. Peltier Erin A. Connick Gull Lake Office 2391 Proton Avenue Tyler McCuaig Phone 672-4442 Joel P. Friesen Office Hours: Every Monday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ryan J. Plewis

Saskatchewan Continues to Post Strong Population Growth New figures from Statistics Canada show the number of people living in Saskatchewan grew by 5,242 to an all-time high of 1,138,879 in the third quarter of 2015. Saskatchewan’s population has now grown by 146,000 people over the past decade, after declining by nearly 24,000 over the previous decade.

While we are facing serious challenges in the energy sector, Saskatchewan’s diverse economy continues to create new jobs and our population continues to grow. That’s a big difference from a decade ago, when a downturn in one sector would mean fewer jobs and a declining population.

Provincial Parks Set New Visitation Record in 2015 Saskatchewan’s provincial parks and recreation sites hit a new attendance record of nearly 3.9 million visits in 2015. Strong visitation can be attributed in part to the province continuing to provide excellent visitor services and the enhanced capital infrastructure investment. Our government is committed to investing in park infrastructure to support the current demand and future growth of visitation.

Since 2007-08, our government has invested nearly $92 million in upgrades and improvements to provincial park infrastructure. Projects include the development of two new campgrounds, upgrading or replacement of service centres, extensive campsite electrical expansion and upgrading, water and wastewater system upgrades, new and enhanced boat launches, and new campsite furnishings.

The opportunity to spend time with family and friends in a beautiful, natural setting is very important to the people of our province, and is only growing in popularity. We are proud to offer high-quality experiences and are always looking at ways that we can enhance our offerings.

Provincial Parks Announce Dates for 2016 Seasonal Camping Program If you’re dreaming of summer as the winter weather starts settling in, there are a few dates you may

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Saskatchewanderer Leaves Lasting Impression Ashlyn George’s stint as the 2015 Saskatchewanderer—the most successful year yet— wraps up this week. George spent the year successfully showcasing Saskatchewan as a great place to live, work and play, gaining more than 20,000 followers since January through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I had the privilege to meet Ashlyn in person while she was visiting Eastend this summer. We had a good visit at Jack’s Café, where she recounted for me her worldwide travels and her thrill at finding such a great opportunity right here at home, in Saskatchewan.

Ashlyn took the Saskatchewanderer program to another level and made a lasting impression wherever she travelled. Operators consistently shared with Tourism Saskatchewan their appreciation of her knowledge, enthusiasm and genuine interest in the work that drives Saskatchewan’s tourism sector.

Saskatchewanderer partners are currently choosing who will travel the province next year. You can follow their adventures online at saskatchewanderer.ca, on YouTube (Sask Wanderer), Facebook ( facebook.com/skwanderer), Twitter (@SkWanderer) and Instagram (@Saskatchewanderer).

Ponteix fundraiser reaches goal editor@gulllakeadvance.com

George Bowditch

want to circle on the calendar for 2016.

Application forms for seasonal campsites will be available online at www.saskparks.net beginning Monday, January 4, 2016. The deadline for applications is Thursday, January 28, 2016 and the draw to award the campsites will be Monday, February 1, 2016.

Seasonal camping offers the opportunity to secure a campsite from mid-May to the end of August, or even into September at some of the 20 parks and recreation sites that offer the program. Due to the popularity of seasonal camping, sites are allocated via a lottery system.

Due to the spring election, the dates for the nightly camping reservation launch will move to April. It will follow the same format as 2015, utilizing a queuing system and staggering the launch over a 10 day period. More information about the launch will be available early in 2016.

he Ponteix Health Centre has reached its goal ahead of schedule and raised all funds necessary for their new blood lab and X-Ray equipment.

They managed to get orders in and have begun getting things ready, even though they had only hoped to raise the money by their December 31 deadline.

“Fundraising has gone quite well. In fact, everybody is happy and satisfied, and in some cases surprised that the community did this,” said Robert Carignan, Chairman of the Ponteix & Area Primary Health Care Committee.

“We were able to amass the necessary funds before the expiration of our time limit. We can’t give exact figures but we have commitments in place to finish our objective of equipping the lab and X-Ray department. Just things are in the ordering process right now.”

He said getting the equipment set up is now being done by the health region.

“The process is in the works and shouldn’t take too long. We are suspecting and hoping that by Easter, we will have a grand opening with everything installed,” he said.

“The first part of the lab equipment is in place and currently being used. The second part -- the X-Ray stuff -- was our big chunk. In the medical world, things don’t happen overnight. It’s just important things get done properly and equipment is coordinated in the health region.”

Carignan is happy with the way things turned out.

“We just had our final draw of the year for a Christmas-type prize and we realized a certain amount of funds. It’s been going well and we hope to realize extra funds leftover so we can do some

improvements in the department as needs arise,” he said.

“I’m extremely happy about how things went personally. I’m gratified, as a lot of people didn’t think we could do it to begin with, but we can attain it. It took a lot of people by surprise. In small communities, when a project is launched, people just get behind it. They see that it gets done, and it’s about community pride.”

It was important to get the project done, as the equipment just continued to get more outdated.

“The life of this type of equipment is relatively quite short. We exceeded the span by three lifetimes. We could see we needed this, and it was a community responsibility to replace this stuff, but at the time we didn’t realize that,” he said.

“We had this feeling that if the equipment was not updated and proper care wasn’t given to the community and other regions, then that whole portion wouldn’t be functioning.

“In saying that, the lab and X-Ray centre are very important. Seeing as we have a nurse practitioner, physician and nursing staff, without those things people would become redundant.”

Carignan said it was nice to see fundraising money coming in throughout the fundraiser.

“We set up a plan and worked with the Dr. Noble Irwin Foundation. It’s extremely important and they helped with communication, the fine details and the aspects of what to do and what not to do.

The aided in the collection of funds and issuing receipts. It gave confidence to our donors that it would be properly done,” he said.

“We followed a plan for activities and didn’t deviate. We have things in the works to thank donors for when this comes to a close. We want to show everyone how all this transpired, thank the community and recognize all these efforts.”

10

THE ADVANCE

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

FARMLEAD

Big Buzz Brewing

BY B R E N N A N T U R N E R

b.turner@farmlead.com

G

rain prices have been see-sawing lower as the market continues to digest some updated weather reports & keeping a watchful eye on central banking decisions, namely the US Federal Reserve. The “Fed” went out and raised rates to 0.25% on Wednesday, December 16th, the first time the US central banking authority had done so since 2006! They further provided guidance that US interest rates will creep up to 1.75% by the end of 2016!

The big news not affecting fundamentals was the merger of Dow Chemical & DuPont, which will spin into 3 divisions, including an agricultural body that will be $3 Billion bigger (in terms of revenues) than current leader, Monsanto. Speaking of ag companies, GrainCrop, which runs Canada Malting, is partnering with Japan’s ZenNoh Grain Corporation to spend a total of $120 million expanding its grain storage and handling presence in Western Canada (competition is healthy in an open market environment!). On the weather front, we continue to watch the wetness in southern Brazil but also some drier conditions creeping into major-soybean producing regions in Mato Grosso. Russian winter crop conditions going into dormancy are close to their long-term averages while the French winter wheat crop is seen heading into the dormancy phase in its best condition ever (a 3rd consecutive record wheat crop could be brewing there).

The U.S.D.A. came out their first forecast for the 2016 U.S. crop pegging corn acres at 90.5 million acres, up 2.4% year-over-year (and the first increase in 3 years), which would produce the 2nd-largest U.S. crop ever at 13.9 Billion bushels. For soybeans, the USDA is expecting the 3rd-largest soybean crop of 3.785 Billion bushels, coming off 82 million acres of planted area (-1.4% YoY).

The U.S. 2016 wheat crop was projected at 2.06 Billion bushels, coming off 53 million acres, a decline of -6% from 2015 and the lowest US acreage since 1970!. Overall, this equates to a forecasted average price in 2016 of $4.50/bushel for Chicago wheat, $3.60/bushel for corn, and $8.65/bushel for soybeans, all lower from their 2015 averages.

The other report this week from the USDA was the December WASDE, which was pretty much a non-event (as expected) as the American supply and demand balance sheets for wheat and soybeans were literally unchanged. 2015/16 soybeans carryout remained at 465 million bushels, a 143% increase over 2014/15’s ending stocks and the highest since 2006/07. Corn ending stocks were raised by 25 million bushels to 1.785 Billion bushels (+3.1% year-over-year) due to ethanol demand up 25 million bushels but exports were lowered by 50 million bushels. For wheat, only changes were 10M bushels of HRS wheat exports being taken off the balance sheet, but 10 million bushels of HRW wheat being added, thus keeping US ending stocks at 911 mllion bushels (+21% YoY).

On the global front though, the USDA raised world production to a record high of almost 735 million tonnes, with world ending stocks finishing the marketing year at almost 230 million tonnes (+8.4% YoY). For corn, South American production was unchanged by the USDA, keeping global ending stocks slightly less than 212 million tonnes (+1.8% YoY). Brazilian & Argentinian soybean output was also unchanged by the USDA, pushing 2015/16 ending stocks to 82.6 million tonnes (+6.3%), but exports were raised for Argentina with a new President there brewing lower export taxes & revaluation of the Argentinian peso, putting further pressure on North American soybean prices.

To growth,​Brennan Turner President, FarmLead.com Brennan Turner is originally from Foam Lake, SK, where his family started farming the land in the 1920s. After completing his degree in economics from Yale University and then playing some pro hockey, Mr. Turner spent some time working in finance before starting FarmLead.com, a risk-free, transparent online and now mobile grain marketplace (app available for iOS & Android). His weekly column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief. He can be reached via email (b.turner@farmlead.com) or phone (1-855-332-7653).

Musical entertainment at the Grand Coteau’s Christmas Tea was provided by Ty & Lizzy Hunter. Photo by Beth Jarrell

Rural Roots

BY C H R I S TA L E E F R O E S E

lcfroese@sasktel.net

M

y five-year-old daughter has a thing for baby Jesus.

Every time she sees a manger, she runs to it and tries to get a peek at the baby. Whenever she hears anything about Mary and Joseph, she asks where baby Jesus is. And any and all references to camels always leads her to ask, ‘where is baby Jesus?’

Those three wise men arriving in Bethlehem on camels really made an impression!

Yesterday we were playing a game of charades and she was acting like she had a baby in her arms.

Then she went to her dresser drawer knob and tied something to it.

Turns out that she was Mary with baby Jesus in her arms and she was just tying up her camel so it wouldn’t run away.

So, we’ve had a lot of interesting discussions lately. This bedtime chat was my favourite.

‘Who is Jesus?’ she asked.

To which I replied, ‘Well, he’s a guy who created everything, including you.’

‘Did he create my shirt?’

‘Yes,’ I replied, somewhat nervously.

‘How did he know my size?’

‘He knows everything,’ I replied.

‘So he’s magic?’

‘A little,’ I said.

‘But you told me magic wasn’t real!’

‘Yes dear, yes, I did tell you that and yes dear that still holds true, so maybe you should just call your Grandpa and ask him about Jesus!’

Apex Distribution Inc.

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Email Christalee Froese at Lcfroese@sasktel.net or visit 21days2joy.wordpress.com for photos of Mei Chen’s journey home.

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Thankfully my father-in-law is a pastor, so if all other explanations fail, I can always tell her to ask her Grandpa!

My daughter’s little friend had been asking her mom about Jesus a lot too.

She wanted to know about the whole crucifixion part. That’s a little trickier, I must admit.

Their conversation went something like this.

‘How did Jesus die?’

‘Well, he died on a cross,’ said her mother.

‘Did they bury him,’ asked the little girl.

‘No, they put him in a cave and on the third day he rose, so when they checked the cave he was gone.’

‘Where did he go?’ asked the curious girl.

‘Well, he rose to heaven,’ said her mother.

‘But where was his body?’ asked the little girl, pausing for a while to really think about it.

The five-year-old’s face lit up with delight as she realized she had finally figured out the mystery.

‘I know what happened to Jesus, mom,’ said the little girl. ‘The coyotes got him!’

Yes, explaining Jesus and all of his activities to five year olds has long been a fascinating experience.

I wish you, my wonderful readers, a joy-filled Christmas that involves fewer questions about Jesus than mine will have.

Email Christalee Froese at Lcfroese@sasktel.net or visit 21days2joy.wordpress.com.

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School bus rollover near Cabri

BRING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH A BANG!

T H E A D VA N C E S TA F F

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

O

We have a large variety of Fireworks in stock.

The office will be closed: Dec. 24th-27th | Dec 31st - Jan3rd We are always on call!

11

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Authorized Dealer

FALL & WINTER HOURS Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM Weekend & Holidays Always on call 24/7

223 - 2nd Ave. W., Shaunavon • 306-297-4080

n the morning of Monday, December 7, a Chinook school bus rolled over into the ditch on highway 32 near Cabri. The driver and all 13 students aboard were immediately taken by another bus to the nearby medical centre. Some students were treated for minor injuries and were monitored, and parents were contacted as well. The accident was reported to the RCMP and treacherously black ice conditions were believed to be the cause. The Division arranged for a replacement bus and driver for that afternoon and the rest of last week. Thankfully everyone

involved in the accident is okay.

All Chinook School Division buses are equipped with an integral roll cage as well as closely spaced high-padded seat backs, as part of approximately 40 safety standards applied to the design and construction of school buses made in and imported into Canada. Based on accident research analysis, the Canada Safety Council and Transport Canada have both determined that seat belts on school buses do not improve safety and in fact may actually adversely affect the safety of children. For more details please visit the Transport Canada website https://www. tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/safevehicles-busesvans-consultations-schoolbus-busbelts-222.htm.

Chinook School Division presents year-end report

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

For all your grinding needs Contact Bart 1-587-577-7776 or Curtis 1-306-672-3006 Serving southern Sask and Alberta

Memory Gardens Cemetery Swift Current, Saskatchewan Phone 1-800-267-6606

A CARE TRUSTED CEMETERY A NEED AND PRE-PLANNING CEMETERY SERVICE Owned and Operated by Warren & Sons Ltd. Dick Warren, Administrator Jim Warren, Superintendent

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

W

ith the end of 2015 come wrap-up reports that focus on changes throughout the year.

Chinook School Division did just that with their Literary Status Report.

Delivered at their December 14 meeting, Chinook School Division’s Literacy Coordinator Kathy Robson presented the report, which showcased the changes schools in the division have made with literacy.

While the 2015/16 school year may only be half over, but Robson says the new focus on the learning environment in classrooms has been a success.

“That was a new focus for us, because we had our balanced literacy… the first time we did balanced literacy, we didn’t focus a lot on the classroom environment, so now this is a new thing we’re focusing on with our teachers and learning in general,” Robson said.

“We’ve purchased quite a few books for our classrooms, for grade six in particular,” she said.

“In terms of the schools, they’ve put their resources into comfortable resources to make some of those environmental improvements that are places you want to sit and read.”

Robson says that this is the first year of four that the division is changing their focus from a mathbased initiative to literacy-focused one. She adds that the new literacy programs in Chinook schools have been well received.

“Now that we’re focusing back on reading and writing, our schools are excited,” she said. “We see lots of changes in the classrooms that show they’re excited and they’re reading, focusing back on the reading and writing, which is exciting.”

They’ve got that renewed excitement, and we’re getting kids excited about reading and writing again, which is really important.”

Part of the change came with the addition of three literacy coaches, who travel around to Chinook schools helping grades three and six teachers fill in the gaps and offer suggestions their students

may need.

“Our coaches are so important to the literacy initiative,” she said. “They are the ones who go out into the classrooms. The coaches will go in to the classrooms and show them (teachers) with their students how to use the strategies, then the teachers will try it and do it back for the coach.”

There’s a lot of discussion about what’s working and what’s not working, and a lot of discussion about how they can improve learning, which is the bottom line.”

She adds that the focus on the two grades in particular isn’t without reason.

“One of the reasons we only focused on our grade three and our grade six is because we only have three coaches. If you really want to do enough visits to make a difference in a classroom, they can only handle so many students,” she said.

“We chose grade six because it was one of those grades we hadn’t done a lot of literacy in at all.

Grade three we felt was kind of in-between. They’re not into the emergent reading, but they’re in-between, so we wanted to focus on that grade to try and revisit a lot of the instructional practice we hadn’t really focused on for the last four years.”

Robson says that while the teachers and students in the division have shown great progress with the new focus on literacy, the division is far from done adding new programs. The focus in the New Year, she says, will be on writing.

“We have two processional development days coming up. On that day we’re going to be looking at writing. We’ll be looking at how teachers get the writing process going in their classrooms, and how do they improve writing,” she said.

“The thing is, when you focus on writing, it also helps improve reading, because as you’re writing, you’re also re-reading all of that writing, and often students who are strong writers are also strong readers.”

It isn’t instead of reading; it will just help support one another. We know if we focus on writing, we’ll see results in reading as well.”

Swift Current Charities receive big donation

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

S CORRECTION:

We would like to clarify that Agribition is NOT moving everything to Swift Current - JUST the CCA Rodeo portion of the event. We apologize if anyone was mislead by our article.

askTel has recently announced the final numbers from this summer’s TelCare program. Ten organizations in Swift Current participated in the event, which raised $10,080 locally.

Sasktel’s TelCare is an initiative to get SaskTel employees to participate in an automatic payroll deduction to support Saskatchewan charities. At the end of the year, the total donations are added up and SaskTel matches 50 cents on every dollar their employees raise.

In total, TelCare dollars contributed $294,622 dollars to 67 non-profits across the province in 2015.

“This completely voluntary program has been embraced by our employees all over the Province who give generously through payroll deductions so they can support the non-profit organizations in their own communities,” Ron Styles, SaskTel President and CEO said in a press release. “TelCare has become a special tradition championed by our employees for over 65 years and reflects SaskTel’s corporate culture and values.”

The Swift Current groups receiving a donation were Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, Arthritis Society, Canadian Diabetes Association, Salvation Army, Canadian Mental Health Association, SPCA Swift Current, Kidney Foundation of Saskatchewan, KidSport and Saskatchewan Abilities Council.

12

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

The Grade 3 performance was lead by an Chayce Foster (centre) and his equally enthusiastic classmates. Photos by Kate Winquist

WE Wish you A

Merry

Christmas an d

Happy new year There will be no paper on December 28th. Next publication will be January 4, 2016!

Look at all those different expressions from the GLS Kindergarten class!

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13

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Decisions, decisions!

“They all look so good”, is what appears to be going through this little one’s mind at the Grand Coteau Centre’s Christmas Tea last Wednesday. Photo by Beth Jarrell

W E NO ABL L AI V A

UBS R E SPIC D CHILI AN

BUY LOCAL

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EAT LOCAL FRESH MEATS Top quality beef, pork, bison, lamb & poultry.

Our local farms & ranches are our suppliers! We also offer full custom cutting services for beef, pork, bison, lamb & wild game!

Hunters are welcome.

SAUSAGES AND STIX

SEAFOOD & POULTRY

Merry Christmas!

20% OFF

Colony Christmas Turkeys & Ranchhouse Hams 473 CENTRE STREET, SHAUNAVON | 306-297-4050 MON TO FRI: 8 AM TO 6 PM, SAT 9 AM TO 5 PM

HOLIDAY

HOURS

CHRISTMAS EVE – 9:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M. | CHRISTMAS DAY – CLOSED BOXING DAY – CLOSED | NEW YEAR’S EVE – 9:00 AM TO 4:00 P.M. NEW YEAR’S DAY – CLOSED | JAN 2 – 10:00 A.M. TO 4:00 P.M.

AT STANDARD MOTORS TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OF ANY CHEVROLET, GMC OR BUICK EVERYONE IS A WINNER! THERE IS NO OBLIGATION TO USE IT BUT IF THEY DO PLAN ON USING THEIR WINNING, THEY MUST DO SO BY JAN. 4TH. THIS PROMO RUNS FROM DEC. 4TH-JAN. 4TH.

From All of us at standard motors

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

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1

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Christmas Traditions Favourite holiday movie?

2

Most important thing about christmas?

3

Best thing/gift ever got?

4

Any traditions in your family?

Sean Barnard,

(a cardinal.) If you're good he leaves a little present in the tree you can open Christmas Eve.

1. I'd have to say Christmas Vacation. It's the most relatable to all families, and it's a crazy time of year.

2. Honestly I just love hanging out with family. I like watching the kids open their gifts. I don't get that feeling anymore.

3. Lego. I never followed instructions and always built my own stuff. I loved putting it together.

4. Being from a larger Ukrainian family, I always had one present to open Christmas Eve, which was pretty rad. It's one of funnest things, having the entire family of 60-70 people show up at one house. We'd have like 12 dishes and hang out. Some cousins I'd only see one time a year, so we would all travel to come do this.

Ryan Switzer,

Laureen Marchand,

Dr. Emily Bamforth,

Owner of Brashtones Tattoo & Designs: Maple Creek

Director of Prairie Wind and Silver Sage, Val Marie

1. It's a Wonderful Life. I love Jimmy Stewart. He's so human, and the fact that it's kind of melodrama is fine because it all works out happy. Everyone good is happy, and gets what they want but the bad guy in end.

2. Christmas is about the chance to gather with people and have the opportunity to give gifts. It's a time set aside when you stop and think about giving gifts.

3. I don't think I can answer. I wouldn't be able to pick one.

4. My family of origin is scattered, my friends are scattered. I just like traditions of getting together with others and taking time to wind down. I make it up as I go along.

Bonnie Allemand-Gleim, Owner of Eastend Agencies, Eastend

1. Christmas With The Kranks. I love it. It's good family entertainment.

2. I love being with my family. I wouldn't have it any other way, not at all.

3. I got a Baby Alive. It was a toy baby that ate and pooped.

4. Usually we spend Christmas Eve and the next day all together. We invite our family and more than just family and extended people and close friends.

Bonnie Fuller,

Owner of Stuff By B, Shaunavon 1. A Christmas Story.

2. Opening my stocking in bed with all my critters and a beautifully set table and all the savoury smells of Christmas dinner 3. Rider Season Tickets 4. My family has Albert the Christmas bird

Swift Current Broncos PR

1. National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. It's still funny. I watch once a year and the jokes still hold up. It's relatable to dysfunctional Christmases. I watched with my mom, and now it's a tradition with my kids.

2.Time with family. Whether spending it with my wife and kids or inlaws, the fellowship of it all is amazing. We get together, have rum and Cokes and have fun.

3. On Christmas in 1983 my mom got Castle Grey Skull, a he-man playset. It was easily the best Christmas ever.

t.Rex Discovery Centre, Eastend

1. Love Actually 2. I love the music, and the overall sense of tradition and goodwill that surrounds the holiday.

3. My family (in Edmonton) goes to church on Christmas Eve, where my parents and I sing in the choir and play in the handbell choir. Afterwards we come home and have cheese fondue, Christmas cake and mincemeat pies. Then we play board games until the small hours.

4. Extremely important. I've never spent a Christmas away from my family, and wouldn't want to. It just wouldn't be the same!

Garrett Thienes,

Owner of Harvest Eatery & Fresh Market, Shaunavon 1. A Christmas Story. That movie makes my dad laugh and we watch it every year.

It's one of the first things I bought for my wife at Christmas after we got married. I was like, "You need this and Star Wars to know everything about me."

2. Food. Everyone else is going to write something nice, but I am a huge fan of any holiday that includes eating and drinking until you could explode. Of course, having friends and family around to share it with is also key.

3. We exchange ugly tree ornaments, comfy pyjamas and there's always a scratch and win tickets in our stockings (with loads of chocolate and Christmas oranges.) Then we usually head to my Grandma's house for a turkey meal fit for a king and have a gift exchange. Since I've been married, though, we alternate years with family. This year we are back in B.C. for Christmas and an entirely new set of traditions!

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Christmas Bells Are Ringing!

Greetings of the Season from

B &BillL& TIRE SERVICE Lynn Cooke - Owners Phone 672-3212 Fax 672-3708 bandltire@sasktel.net Gull Lake, SK.

Holiday Hours:

Dec. 24: Dec. 25: Dec. 26: Dec. 27: Dec. 28 & 30: Dec. 31: Jan. 1: Jan. 2:

8 am-4pm CLOSED CLOSED Noon-5pm Regular Hours 8am-4pm CLOSED Back to regular hours

Full Convenience Gas-Diesel-Propane

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Liz, Ashley & Marilyn

Property Management & Real Estate Sales

361 Centre Street, Shaunavon, SK 306.297.3771

Holiday Hours

December 24th 7:00 am - 2:00 pm December 25th CLOSED December 26th CLOSED December 31st 7:00 am - 4:00 pm January 1st CLOSED

The Management and Staff would like to wish all our valued customers a

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

NEW WINTER HOURS IN EFFECT DEC. 1st - APR. 1st Mon-Fri 7 AM - 6 PM; Sat 8 AM - 5 PM; Sun Closed

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15

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

453 Railway Avenue Abbey Saskatchewan S0N 0A0

453 Railway Avenue Abbey Saskatchewan S0N 0A0 Phone 1-866-746-BONO (2666) or 689-BONO (2666) Phone 1-866-746-BONO (2666) or 689-BONO (2666)

Fran

Lisa

Terry and I along with all the staff at Bono Holdings would like to wish everyone a very “Merry Christmas” and may you have a “Healthy, Happy & Prosperous Terry and2016”.

I along with all the staff at Bono Holdings would like to wish eve-

Simon Alex

ryone a very “Merry Christmas” and may you have a “Healthy, Happy & Prosperous 2016”. Simon

Terry and I along with all the staff at Bono Holdings would like to wish everyone a very “Merry Christmas” Simon and may you have a “Healthy, Happy & Prosperous 2016”.

Brian Bono

Renee

15 Great

Valintyn

Terry

Dawn

Bono Holdings is proud to announce that on Dec 31, 2015 we will have completed 15 years of being in business.

It seems like it was only yesterday that we opened our doors to our new venture. Following are the people that I would like to thank, I won’t mention names for fear I may leave someone out. I would like to thank the many customers for their val- ued support over the past 15 years. It is your support that has made our business what it is today and allowed us to give back to the surrounding communities, community events and organizations.

Thanks to friends and customers for picking up freight on their trips to Swift Current and Saskatoon it really is greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the past and present employees that have worked and continue to work for me over the past 15 years. Once again I could not have built the business without your hard work and Bono Holdings is proud to announce that on Dec 31, 2015 we will have completed 15 years of being in business. It seems like it was only yesterday that we opened our doors to our dedication. Thank You to my family for all your help in the many ways that you have, whether it was delivernew venture. Following are the people that I would like to thank, I won’t mention names for fear I may leave someone out. I would like to thank the many customers for their valing or picking up working in the shop, or taking phone for Bono Holdings.

And last, but first, ued support over the past 15 years. It is your support that has made ourproduct, business what it is today and allowed us to give back to thecalls surrounding communities, community events and organizations. Thanks to friends and customers for picking freight on their trips support to Swift Current and Saskatoon really is greatly appreciated.

Thank you to all thepick-ups past and in thanks to my up wife Terry for her and confi dence initme, thanks for the thousands of freight employees have worked to work mehave over the past late 15 15 years.

Once againIin Idid could not have built the without your hard and dedication.

Bono present Holdings is proudthat to announce thatand on continue Dec 31, 2015 wefor will years of being business.

Itand seems likebusiness it you. was only yesterday thatwork we opened our doors to our Swift Current, thecompleted many night meals, notice I thank

Thank You to my family forpeople all yourthat helpI would in the many ways thatIyou have, whether it wasfor delivering or picking up product, in like the shop, or taking phone calls for Bono new venture.

Following are the like to thank, won’t mention names fear I may leave someone out.working I would to thank the many customers for their valHoldings. mysupport wife Terry support confidence thanks the thousands of freight pick-ups in Swift Current, the many late night meals, ued support overAnd the last, pastbut 15 first, years.thanks It is to your thatfor hasher made our and business what in it isme, today andfor allowed us to give back to the surrounding communities, community events We are very proud of being a part of the surrounding rural communities and Southwest Saskatchewan.

I did notice andThanks I thankto you. and organizations. friends and customers for picking up freight on their trips to Swift Current and Saskatoon it really is greatly appreciated. Thank you to all the past and are very proud of being a part of the surrounding rural communities and Southwest Saskatchewan.

“Believing In Ruralproud isit. our motto and I stand proud behind it.

“Believing Inover Rural is our o and stand behind presentWe employees that have worked and continue to work for me theSaskatchewan” past 15 years. Once againmott I could not Ihave builtSaskatchewan” the business without your hard work and dedication.

“A Huge Thanks to Everyone from the bottom of my heart.”

Thank You to my family for all your help in the many ways that you have, whether it was delivering or picking up product, working in the shop, or taking phone calls for Bono Holdings. And last, but first,Check thanks out the to my wife Terry for her support and confidence in me, thanks for the thousands of freight pick-ups in Swift Current, the many late night meals, My shop guys aren’t doctors but they can Easy Access help you with your bent or out of shape tube.

I did notice and I thank you. Drawers!

We are very proud of being a part of the surrounding rural communities and Southwest Saskatchewan. “Believing In Rural Saskatchewan” is our motto and I stand proud behind it.

“A Huge Thanks to Everyone from the bottom of my heart.”

YEARS Check out the Easy Access Drawers!

“A Huge Thanks to Everyone from the bottom of my heart.”

My shop guys aren’t doctors but they can help you with your bent or out of shape tube.

16

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

We asked...

“What are your plans for Christmas?”

Melody “We’ll stay in Shaunavon and have a big Christmas dinner, but my husband and my family. We’re both from here, so it’s easy to celebrate all together.”

Ranch House Meats - Vince

Wishing our Past & Present Customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2016!

TOYS!

NOW IN-STOCK Available at...

“I’m having my family home.

My son is in Manitoba playing hockey, so he’s going to come here for Christmas. The family is all close, so we’re all going to get together, have a good time and appreciate a good Christmas.”

“Store-wise, we’re offering a few specials on prime rib, the rancher’s way of Christmas instead of a turkey. We’re glad to see everyone come in and support us, and we hope they all have a great Christmas.”

Copyright © CNH Industrial Capital America LLC. All Rights Reserved

Ternes Sales & Service Ltd.

Hwy 21 & Trans Canada Hwy. Maple Creek, SK 306-662-4444

Curious Cargo Consignment Dawn “We’ll have our neighbours over on Christmas Eve, something we’ve done for two years now. Christmas Day, we’ll go to my sister’s for dinner, so it’ll be three of us sisters, my partner Rick, and one of his friends. We know a couple single fellows who don’t have anyone to celebrate with, so we want to include them, as well. It’ll be fun.”

Jae’s PharmacyJaelee

405 North Service Rd W 306-773-1826 www.macmor.com

“I’m going down to my cousin’s house in the Frenchman River Valley, which is our usual family tradition. His wife makes homemade Chinese Food, which is delicious. We open a few presents and have a grand old time.”

The Management & Staff of the

Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc.

Access Realty Ashley “Celebrate with family, and have Christmas at my parent’s house.

Just spend time with family, that’s what counts. We’re getting bigger, growing slowly.”

wishes their Customers, Friends and Family a very

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

First Sale Of The New Year

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5th starting at 10:00 am COWTOWN LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE INC. MAPLE CREEK, SASK. www.cowtownlivestock.com 306-662-2648 1-800-239-5933

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17

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

With best wishes to our friends and neighbours for a happy and healthy holiday season.

We really appreciate your continued support. from all the staff at

PIONEER CO-OP FARM CENTRE

Gull Lake, Sask. • 672-4105

NOW IS THE TIME.

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208 CENTRAL AVE. N. SWIFT CURRENT, SK. S9H 0L2

CELL: 306-774-5900 • KIRSTIN@WWSMITH.CA

ASSOCIATED WITH JACK BRAWN INSURANCE SERVICES

Steeped tea samples were provided by Melody Hughes. Photo by Beth Jarrell

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

As we get ready to wrap up another year, we’re filled with happiness and gratitude, thanks to our many wonderful friends and customers here.

Best Wishes from Sheldon Guckert, Brent Guckert and their families and all the employees at

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As the year comes to an end, all of us at

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152 Centre Street, Ponteix, SK. S0N 1Z0 (306) 625-3689

18

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| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

GREAT WEST AUTO ELECTRIC This sweet little girl wondered her way up to the stage to watch her big sister perform at the Gull Lake Elementary Christmas Concert. Photo by Kate Winquist

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19

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Front Row: Tyler Lamar, Emerson Sommer, Chayce Foster, Zach Dysart Back Row: Jayne Service, Alexa Cobley, Will Kirwan, Peyton Keller. Photo by Kate Winquist.

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R.M. OF WHITE VALLEY No. 49

UTILITY OPERATOR

The Rural Municipality of White Valley No. 49 invites applications for the Full Time Seasonal positions of UTILITY OPERATOR.

These positions will commence approximately April 1, 2016. The successful applicant will work under the direction of the RM Foreman, and Must be able to work with minimal supervision.

Applicants must hold a valid driver’s license and have a vehicle capable of towing the municipal trailer and hauling supplies, as required. Applicants must possess or be prepared to obtain Power Mobile Equipment (PME), WHMIS, TDG and Ground Disturbance and the Industrial Vegetation Courses; the RM will absorb the cost of obtaining any or all of these courses, as required.

Applications stating experience, expected salary and references may be submitted to the Municipal Office by 4:00 pm on January 13th, 2016, by mail, Fax or Email to: R. M. of White Valley No. 49 Box 520, Eastend, Sask. SON OTO Phone: (306) 295-3553 Fax: (306) 295-3571 Email: rm49@sasktel.net

Council thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

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21

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

New changes mean big impact in cattle industry

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he agriculture and cattle ranching business are constantly evolving. New technology is introduced every day to optimize life for those in the ranching community.

Especially, says Harold Martens, SSGA (Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association) representative, in the size of stock.

“Over the last 30 years there’s research that shows the cattle business has evolved from a certain amount of cost and weight gain in relation to environment, land and water,” he said. “We’re seeing that carcases from 30 or 40 years ago were around 500 pounds, now we see them at 850 pounds.”

While some call this change rapid, Martens says that it has all come very naturally.

“It didn’t happen suddenly, it progressed over the years thanks to efficiencies in the cattle business with how you breed, what you breed, how you handle your cattle and stuff like that,” he said. “That’s where it’s come about, in genetic changes.”

Another large change ranchers have seen in the past 30 years is their environmental impact, something Martens says stems from early settlers.

“It’s something that’s a part of our mindset when we go into this business,” he said. “We have traditionally always thought about it, it’s been like that since the early settlers came here who wanted to be a part of the cattle business.

“They had to rely on an annual feeding program for their cattle, and didn’t have modern technology in relation to feed grains, so they had to adjust to the environment, and they did.”

He adds that this is something that has especially seen a change in the past 30 years “There’s been a reduction of about 16 per cent in environmental impact in those last 30 years as a result of innovation in cattle breeders and the willingness of cattlemen to take advantage of new technology.”

Generally, ranchers and cattle people are really strong environmentalists.”

Another large change Martens says he has seen is the availability of new technology to streamline the process of raising cattle, specifically in the form of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chips.

“Every cow now has to be RFID tagged in order to be marketed. That’s led to some people making that available on their computers so they can check to see how there heard is doing daily, and how their cattle are doing once they sell them,” he said.

While some in the ranching community have embraced the new technology, Martens says that other ranchers want more research before buying in completely.

“There is some hesitation on the part of some of the technology,” he said. “Some of it hasn’t been altogether proved to be beneficial to producers. The radio frequency tags have to do with the national strategy to have an animal traced from its birth to slaughter, so that’s the plan for the RFID tags.”

There has been some hesitation because it’s cost producers quite a lot of money and time to do that, and it hasn’t always proved to be completely accurate. As that progresses, that improves, but it isn’t 100 per cent reliable. Sometimes the computer chips quit working, and a lot of times they tear out.”

He says that while the idea is for cattle to wear the RFID tags for life, it doesn’t always work that way.

“They’re placed through the ear like a pin through the ear, like ear studs for a woman or guy,” he said.

“Sometimes they don’t stay there. A cow goes up and down the pastures, gets hooked on the branch and can pull it out. That’s just what happens.

However, Martens adds that even with the new technology in place, there are some things that simply can’t be replaced “There are still things that need to be done with a horse. For example, we have land on Diefenbaker Lake, and you can’t go there with a quad. You can’t go there for anything but a horse, so there are aspects that aren’t going to change,” he said.

“The skills that cowboys have in roping and moving cattle from place to place really aren’t going to change all that much.”

There has been some hesitation because it’s cost producers quite a lot of money and time

Good ideas are worth sharing.

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22

THE ADVANCE

s r e t t Le a t n a S to ’s Grade 2 S L G ’s J u dg e

by Mrs.

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Dear Santa, Dear Santa Harlyn Hello my name is Emma. I am Hi my name is rs old.

I am seven yea n I please have a six years old. I would like a for christmas caa scooter in leopard kitty zoom. I have been good rple, by helping my little sister bild DS3D in pubig lego set, a purple toque print, a a snowman and help my dad I been good thist . m po m po a with shovel the driveway. How old mom clen ou by helping my How are your r ea y are you? How can you travl chichillas chage. out cookies e th all around the world? I will leave reindeer. I will our reindeer carrots leav you milk and cookeas dry y r and milk fo oatmeal with spakles. and water.

From Emma from Harlyn

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Dear Santa, Hello my nam HuntrE I am e is old. I would li7 years Lego Batman ke a box game an 4 X I have been g d 5. this year by hood my mom. Ho elping your elves? I w are leave out mil will k and cookies. from Hunter Fehr

like a power Dear Santa, I am 7 years old. I would Hellomy name is Miranda. helping My dad and I helping My Wheels. I have good this by h Selfon. How is the Workshop? I will lev friends. and a Monster Hig at for you and one uv yor rendeer. milk and cookies and a car Love Miranda

Dear Santa, Hello my name is Do years old. I would likm. I am 7 e a nerf gun please I would like a New Black ops3 PLEASE!.ps4 with please a Lego Minec I want Is Rudolph real? I haraft set. good this year by be ve been friend. I will leave ing a good and milk and lettucout cookies reindeer Merry Chri e for the stmas.

From Dom

Dear Satnta, tyler. I Hello my name is would am 6 years old. I people like a train. I help with out. I like to play mote friends. I want a re. controlled TITANIC I How are your elves?and will leave out mlik cookies.

From Tyler Dear Santa Hello my name is Rissa.

I am 7 yeas old. kluks. I I woud like to have mu nipad. would like to have a mi/ I have what do you like to do feeding been good this your byis February my dog. My Birthday doing I will 20. How are your elves kies out leave out milk and coo st. Merry for you. you are the be Christmas, Ho Ho Ho Love Rissa.

Dear Santa, Hello. My name is Hannah. I am 7 years old. I would like a stuffy cheetah and a zebra.

I have been good. This year I am helping my sister. How are your elves and reindeer? I will leave milk and cookies. I would also like a giraffe.

From Hannah

Dear Santa, acton com. can I please get a I am seven.

My name is Keegango. How old Can I please get La e wen I got are you? I was brave your elves? my stiches. How ar you eat in How much treats domilk and a night? I will leav I on the cookies carrots. Am the nise noty list or am I on list?

Marry chritmas love: Keegan

Dear Santa, e is Noah I Hello my nam d I would am 7 years ol railway. I like a garden this year have been goody mom. by hellping m u? I will How old are yoolale chip leave out choc ttuce for cookies and le the reindeer.

From Noah

Dear Santa, Hello my nam six years old. e is Spencer I am on carver. I h I would like a crayyear by helpinave deer good this laundry. Are g my mom do the hard? How oldyour elves working your elves do are you? How are milk and coo ing? I will leave out lettuce for thkies for you and Merry Christme reindeer.

From Spencer as from Spencer.

Dear Santas, I am 7 years old hello my name is Hunter Wilson can I please have a game called blacktops 3 can I please have a trip to Disney lande.

How are you? Do you like the North pole? Do you like your reindeer? can I plesae have a cmputer.

I have been good this year by helping m sister Charlie. If she loses something I help her find it. How is your elves doing? I will leave out cookies for you and milk and carrots for the reindeer from Hunter Wilson

Dear Santa, Hello my name is Julianne. I am 7 years old. I would like a toy baby and a sled and snow.

Can I please have an American girl doll? What kind of cookies do you want? Are your elves doing good? I have been really good this year by helping walking the dogs and playing with my brother. I will leave cookies out for you and leave lettuc for the reindeer. love Juli

Dear Santa, Dear Santa, am 7 years old.

Hello my name is Ja me is Nathaneil. I na y M ! llo He yd a. years old. I would lik I am 7 How are you? op? skis and a power w e a pair of How is your worksh he el s I ha ve been How is prancer? good this year by he lp deer? in g m ak e supper and play fa How are your rein do you eat in one year? I ir ts . ea How many tr good on treats do you eat at How many this year by doing car and a od go ch en ri be st m ve as ha ?

I will leveve out milk would like a toy my spelling test. I a teddy bear). I will leave an apple and some and cookies and carrots merry fluffy car (soft as for you.

Christmas out treats and milk Love Jayda Keith Merry Christmas! aneil From, Nath

Dear Santa, Helo my name is Brooklyn. Im 7 years old. I would like a guiter not a fake one a real one plesa and thank you. I am going to leave cookies out for you. are your reindeer okay? I have been gad by helping Hayley find her nectlace chain. How is prancer? merry Christmas Santa! love Brooklyn

Dear Santa my name is Ca I please have rson Taylor. Can ops x-box cardcall of Duty black internet plea for my 360 for How is the nose and thank you. been good th rth pole? I have hockey team. is year for my How is your el I’m good at goalie. working hard ves? Are your elves sleigh? I am g? What powers your milk cookies a oing to leave out chritmas and nd milk. merry love Carson a happy new year

Dear Santa, my name is G I am 7 years eorge would like a old. I and a i Phon quad bike. I have be and a by helping peoeen good How are your ple up. doing? I will elves you cookies a leave out Marry Christmnd milk. as. Ho Ho Ho. Love George

Dear Santa Hello my name is Blair I am 7 years old and would like a cool lego set please.

I have been good this year by helping my teacher. How old are you? How is Mrs claus? I will leave out milk and cookies and lettuce for the reindeer.

Merry Christmas From Blair

Dear Santa, Hello my name is Hayley D. I am 7 years old. I would like a Barbie that can jump on a horse! Are your elevs working hard? I have been good this year by helping my brother cut out a snowman’s hat.

I will leave out cookies and milk and carrots! Is your work shop always buse?

Merry Christmas From Hayley D.

Dear Santa, uld like a Helo my name is Lila. I wotrain with a microphone set and a toy . What is your remote control and a track ur favourite reindeer’s names? who is yoby helping reindeer? I have been goodk. I am going my mom because she is sic okies and to leav out a plate with co ndeer. Marey milk and carots for the rei Chistmas.

Love Lila

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| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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23

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Concept Sketch Credit: Murray Miller

Salvation Army building finishes exterior facelift

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he Salvation Army building, the longest-standing structure on Maple Creek’s Pacific Avenue, has finished undergoing lengthy renovations to the roof and front facade.

Constructed in the late 19th century, it is the only sandstone building in the town, and has provided a haven for different businesses over time.

“When the Main Street Program was announced in 2011, one of the first things the committee did was identify buildings are the district that had value and the greatest visual impact on the character of the core,” said Royce Pettyjohn, Manager of Community & Economic Development and Main Street Coordinator for Maple Creek.

“The Salvation Army building was identified as one of those key structures, as it’s essentially the first building the public sees when they come into the heritage district. Given the volume of traffic along Pacific Avenue - hundreds of thousands pass by every year - the town felt the building was key in conveying positives about the community.”

There was a desire to see a partnership developed with the property owners, and the first phase began at 38 Pacific Avenue, where it was painted.

“It used to be three or four colours, including a lime green. It wasn’t very attractive. We also installed a heritage district gateway mural to go on the side of the building. It’s beautiful and a stylized depiction of Maple Creek at the turn of the last century,” he said.

“We created a nice, vibrant mural to set the tone. It’s got great colour and the two buildings -- 37 and 38 -- were done to complement each other.”

The buildings have a unique and storied history.

“The stone building has a history expanding to 1902. It’s been a hardware, electrical and auto store. Cobblecreek Gifts started there before it moved, and

now it’s the Salvation Army. The biggest challenge on it was the roof, which has been done three times over the years,” he said.

“The last of three was designed as a shed roof, and it was connected to the building next door. It was made on a slope to help drainage, but it was sending water down the front of the building and wrapping it under, letting it get inside. It wasn’t ideal for tenants or for the structure of the building.”

The first thing done by new owner Bob Siemens was the removal of the inappropriate roof. A flat membrane one was put on.

“The Maple Creek Main Street Program applauds the building owner, Bob Siemens, for his participation in the program and for making the significant personal investment that was necessary to make the project a reality. It shows a great vote of confidence not only in the Main Street Program approach to community revitalization, but also for the

future of the community as a whole,” said Pettjyohn.

“Bob has recently relocated to Maple Creek from British Columbia with his wife and young family. They own and operate Cowtown Kids Toys & Candy on Jasper Street.”

Pettyjohn said the changes to the roof of the building helped tremendously with water filtration.

“It stopped structural deterioration.

There had been damage to the sandstone facade, because it was saturated in water and some was shattering.

When we removed the paint in some cases, it was the only thing holding in the sandstone,” he said.

“We did more structural work to the stoned than expected, but at the end of the day we accomplished saving the building and giving it structural integrity. We also created that desired beautiful impact. Or work was so focused here, and ultimately it’s the owners’ decision if they want to do additional

work.”

The Main Street Program wanted to acknowledge CAP Masonry and Charlie Pirie and his team for the conservation work, as he sees this restoration as significant to the town.

“The downtown core becomes the face and heart of the town, and people use the downtown core as the barometer of what life is like in a place. A tired, rundown core sends the subliminal message a place isn’t attractive or prosperous. If we want new businesses, investors and residents, we have to put our best foot forward. First impressions are so important,” he said.

“Something like 69 per cent of people don’t live in the communities where they grew up, and of those who move, they pick the places they do because they’ve visited them as tourists. When asked why they moved, they discuss first impressions, and how a place looks and feels. We need to invest in the future and give good first impressions.”

Pacific Ave. Circa 1910 photo Credit: S.W. Sask. Oldtimers’ Museum & Archive

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24

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year!

From the Board, Staff & Management of the:

Great Plains College Welding students present Amish and Krishin Hockridge with custom-made gifts. Photo Provided.

Great Plains College welding students give back CONTRIBUTED

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

G

reat Plains College Welding students came together to create and present special gifts to members of a local Swift Current family.

Amisha and her brother Krishin Hockridge received two pieces of metal art, welded, painted and cut by members of the Welding program, at a surprise presentation for Amisha’s birthday.

“Amisha dances and a similar piece of work was donated for a raffle that was done by a local dancer that was raising funds for a trip,” her mother Veena Hockridge explained. “She bought many, many tickets but did not win. She’s been through a lot and I wanted to give her something special. I thought I’d contact the college and see if there was any way they could make another one as a surprise birthday gift.”

Amisha has a rare condition called Microtia, which is a congenital ear deformity. She was born without an outer and middle right ear, had a tethered spinal cord and one kidney is performing at only 30 per cent capacity.

She has received reconstructive ear, spinal and multiple other surgeries and is still having several medical issues with her kidneys and bowels and other surgeries in her future. They are required to

travel to Alberta once a week for treatments and have been for the last 15 months.

“When I received the phone call and heard about everything this young girl has been through, I relayed the story to my students and they got to work,” said Jared McKenzie, Great Plains College Welding instructor. “We decided that we needed to do something special for her brother as well. He’s been right by her side through all of this. We all just wanted to do something nice for them.”

A shadow box sign, which says “If you dance with your heart, your body will follow,” was made within 24 hours for Amisha. Krishin received a Pontiac Firebird logo, a symbol of his favourite car.

“It’s been a tough road emotionally and financially,” said Hockridge. “We are grateful for this kind gesture and community support.”

According to her parents Mike and Veena Hockridge, who have started a parent support website, Microtia is a condition that affects one in every 10,000 children. Amisha is one of every 8,000 children born with more serious complications.

The family is accepting donations to help cover the cost of Amisha’s future surgeries and treatments. To visit the family’s Microtia support website for her story and medical trust fund information, go to microtiasupport.com and select her story.

Cypress Hills Constituency

DATE OF DISAPPEARANCE: July 5, 2004 LOCATION: Regina, SK DATE OF BIRTH: Sept. 1, 1998 EYES: Brown HAIR: Brown (bobbed cut) WEIGHT: approx. 40 lbs.

HEIGHT: 3'5"

PARTICULARS: Tamra was last seen in her Regina home around 11pm Monday, July 5, 2004. When last seen she was wearing a light blue striped halter top with pink accents, light blue jeans and may be in rubber boots or barefoot. Tamra has 2 circle type birthmarks (one pale and the other darker in color) on her stomach. Also an inch scar on one of her legs below the knee.

Anyone having information regarding the above case, please call CHILD FIND SASK. INC. at 306-955-0070 or 1-800-513-3463.

All calls are confidential.

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Happy New Year

MacBean & Tessem

Gull Lake Office - 2382 Proton Ave. Phone: 306.672.4404

Get Bonnie working for you

EASTEND AGENCIES LTD. 104 Maple Avenue North • Eastend, SK

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

25

Gull Lake Pharmacy

will be CLOSED from Friday, December 25, 2015 to Sunday, January 3, 2016.

We will reopen Monday, January 4, 2016.

CLIP & SAVE

Gull Lake Curling Club Events: Boxing Day Open Bonspiel – December 26th contact Kelsey at 306-671-7741 to enter Men’s Bonspiel – January 27th to 30th contact Ryan at 306-672-6722 to enter Ladies Bonspiel – March 3rd to 5th contact Carla at 306-672-7447 to enter St Patties Day Open Bonspiel – March 19th contact Kelsey at 306-671-7741 to enter

Gull Lake and Area Recreational Complex Board Annual

2016 TRIP OF THE MONTH JANUARY 2016 - DISNEYLAND

Airfare from Calgary to Los Angeles return for 2 passengers, 7 nights accommodation in Anaheim - moderate property

FEBRUARY 2016 - NEW YORK

Airfare from Calgary to New York return for 2 passengers, 3 nights moderate accommodations

MARCH 2016 - VICTORIA & BUSCHART GARDENS

Airfare from Calgary to Victoria return for 2 passengers, 3 nights moderate accommodations & 2 tickets for Buschart Gardens

APRIL 2016 - RADIUM HOT SPRINGS GOLF PACKAGE 2 nights accomodation with 2 rounds of golf with cart

MAY 2016 - NIAGRA FALLS

Airfare from Calgary to Toronto return for two passengers, 3 nights moderate accommodation & 2 tickets to the Hornblower Voyage to the Falls boat tour

JUNE 2016 - $1500 TRAVEL VOUCHER Travel Professionals International - Webb, SK

JULY 2016 - MEXICO

Airfare from Calgary to Puerto Vallarta return for 2 passengers, 7 nights all inclusive accommodation at a moderate property

AUGUST 2016 - LAKE LOUISE SKI PACKAGE 3 nights accomodation & 4 ski passes

SEPTEMBER 2016 - LAS VEGAS

Airfare from Calgary for 2 passengers and 4 nights accomodation

OCTOBER 2016 - HONOLULU

Airfare from Calgary to Honolulu return for 2 passengers, 7 nights accomodation at moderate property

NOVEMBER 2016 - SAN FRANCISCO

Airfare from Calgary to San Francisco return for 2 passengers, 3 nights moderate accomodation

DECEMBER 2016 - ALASKAN CRUISE

Airfare from Calgary to Vancouver return for 2 passengers, 7 nights Alaskan Cruise - Inside Cabin

$120 / ticket

Lottery Lic. # RR15-0394

Music instructor, Amanda Ruel, leads the Grand Finalé at GLS Christmas Concert.

(Below) Enjoying the performance while babysitting. Photos by Kate Winquist

26

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

YOUR SOUTHWEST CLASSIFIEDS & SERVICE DIRECTORY Proudly sponsored by Your FAMILY Ford Dealer ... Cypress Motors Ltd.

SWIFT CURRENT 1-888-875-8188 MAPLE CREEK 1-877-662-2617 OR GO TO WWW.CYPRESSMOTORS.COM FOR RENT Large 1 bedroom house, 2 bedroom house and 3 bedroom house for rent in Shaunavon.

Non-smoking only. Call 306-6912665. tn GULL LAKE HOUSING (Price & Kings Manor) has suites for rent.

All one bedroom. No smoking.

No pets. Regular housing $860/ month. Senior housing has different rates. Call 306-672-8058. tn ROYAL LePAGE FORMULA 1 has rental apartments available in Gull Lake. For further details go to www.swiftcurrentsask.ca, call 306-773-7527 or email f1@swiftcurrent.ca tn SERVICES Twisted Wind RV & Mini Storage.

Units are 10’ x 15’ and rent $80/ month or $840/year plus GST. Call 306-297-9382 and ask for Megan. tn

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2016

from Betty & Staff at

ABBOTT REALTY #1, 115 Maple St., Maple Creek, SASK 306-662-3333

t COMMERCIAL t

102 Herbert Street

Like us

And stay connected with your community newspaper.

- RAND -

- Polyurethane Foam Insulation - Sand Blasting - Pipe, Vessel and Tank Coating - Spray Applied Cellulose - Industrial Painting Phone 306-297-2162

$52,900

113 Harder Street

mls #553205

$92,000

Sale of Grader by Tender The Rural Municipality of White Valley No. 49 offers for sale: 2006 John Deere 770D Motor Grader

from Ed & Jan Cooke

EBC

Contracting R.M. OF WHITE VALLEY No. 49

GRADER OPERATOR The Rural Municipality of White Valley No. 49 invites applications for the Full Time Seasonal positions of GRADER OPERATOR.

These positions will commence approximately April 1, 2016. The successful applicant will work under the direction of the RM Foreman, and Must be able to work with minimal supervision.

mls #550587

R.M. OF WHITE VALLEY No. 49

Applicants must hold a valid driver’s license and have a vehicle capable of towing the municipal trailer and hauling fuel, blades and other supplies, as required. Applicants should have or be prepared to obtain Power Mobile Equipment (PME), WHMIS, TDG and Ground Disturbance Courses; the municipality will absorb the cost of obtaining any or all of these courses, as required.

described as follows: • S/N DW770DX607284 • 10,381 hours • 4 ft. moldboard + 2 ft. extension • Push Block, 3 Shank Ripper, 9 Shank Scarifier • Auto Shift/ Cruise Control • Heated Mirrors & Back Window • 17.5 x 25 Bridgestone Radials (30% tread) • Engine Rebuilt @ 777,300 hours • Differential Rebuilt @ 7,353 hours • Parts & Filters included Sealed Tenders, marked ‘Tender’, may be submitted to the Municipal Office by 4:00 pm on January 13th, 2016,

by Mail, Email or delivered to: R. M. of White Valley No. 49 Box 520, Eastend, Sask. SON OTO Phone: (306) 295-3553 Fax: (306) 295-3571 Email: rm49@sasktel.net

Any or All Tenders not necessarily accepted.

Applications stating experience, expected salary and references may be submitted to the Municipal Office by 4:00 pm on January 13th, 2016, by mail, Fax or Email to: R. M. of White Valley No. 49 Box 520, Eastend, Sask. SON OTO Phone: (306) 295-3553 Fax: (306) 295-3571 Email: rm49@sasktel.net

D. Wayne Elhard, MLA Cypress Hills Constituency Making your voice heard in Regina.

401 Redcoat Drive P.O. Box 308, Eastend, SK. S0N 0T0 Phone: 1-877-703-3374 cypresshills.mla@sasktel.net

Council thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

212 Maple Street

mls #545497

Stitch Master Inc.

$199,000

213 Jasper Street

mls #556526

$299,000

s MAPLE CREEK s

www.abbottrealty.com abbottrealty@sasktel.net

www.wayneelhard.ca

33 1st Avenue NE Swift Current, SK S9H 2A9

Regional Health Authority Meeting

306.778.6700

Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2016

3:00 PM - Conference Room 124 Upper Level - Cypress Health Region 429 - 4th Avenue NE, Swift Current, SK

www.stitchmaster.ca • •

The meeting is open for the public to attend and observe.

Individuals or groups of individuals wishing to have an audience must request same in writing stating the nature of their business. Please write to the Chairperson of the Cypress Regional Health Authority care of the Cypress Health Region at 429 - 4th Ave. NE, Swift Current, SK S9H 2J9.

• Meetings are scheduled in various locations throughout the Health Region and are usually held the second week of each month. Please note there will be exceptions to that guideline.

For further information please contact the Health Region Office at 306-778-5104.

• Farm • Hail • Auto • Home • Health & Travel • Commercial (Including Oilfield Operations) In Frontier for over 25 yrs.

We are an SGI Motor Issuer

colleen@frontiersouthwest.ca 305 Centre St., Frontier, SK

306-296-4477

www.frontiersouthwest.ca

THANK YOU!

The Tompkins Skating Rink would like to thank everyone who contributed to the fundraiser held November 21st at the Tompkins Hotel. Your generosity is greatly appreciated and the money raised has helped to pay for our roof repair.

PRODUCTION AND DRILLING EQUIPMENT RENTALS Low Profile Tank Slip Type Elevators

Flare Tanks Light Towers

Frac Manifolds Shale Tanks

riderenergy@sasktel.net • Fax: 306-672-4082

Call 24 Hours 1-888-71-RIDER (7-4337)

We are your grassroots voice for rural Saskatchewan!

... support your local independent newspaper

THE ADVANCE

Classifieds

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

AGRICULTURE

CAREER TRAINING

Heavy Duty Mechanic wanted immediately.

Must have truck & trailer experience.

Excellent pay & benefit package. Andres Truck & Trailer. Windthorst, SK Call/Text Jayson at 306.736.3250

Got Oat Stubble?

H E A L T H C A R E DOCUMENTATION SPECIALISTS in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training d a y . www.canscribe.com.

1.800.466.1535. info@canscribe.com.

M E D I C A L TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have workat-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program.

Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Think Quinoa in 2016!

Grow With Us Total production contracts available for 2016.

Premium returns, guaranteed markets and delivery. www.quinoa.com 306.933.9525

AUTO PARTS Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks.

Lots of trucks...

Dodge...

GMC...

Ford... Imports... 1/2 ton to 3 tons... We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260.

Lloydminster

FEED AND SEED Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM

Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @

www.westerncommodities.ca

HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

- GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!!

- BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!!

HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

FOR SALE Restless Leg Syndrome & Leg Cramps? Fast Relief In One Hour.

Sleep At Night. Proven For Over 32 Years. www.allcalm.com Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660

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

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly.

Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1400 for details.

Stay connected with your southwest community newspaper.

Visit us online!

27

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

LAND FOR SALE

SERVICES

FARMLAND WANTED

Hip or Knee Replacement?

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES Central - 217 1/4’s South - 97 1/4’s South East - 43 1/4’s South West - 65 1/4’s North - 10 1/4’s North East - 14 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 56 1/4’s West - 49 1/4’s FARM AND PASTURE AVAILABLE

LAND

TO RENT

PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT.

Problems Walking or Getting Dressed?

The Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Yearly Tax Credit $20,000 Lump Sum Refund

NEW-WAY IRRIGATION

is seeking a qualified applicant for the PARTS POSITION in our Outlook, SK office.

The qualified applicant should have shipping and receiving experience.

Excellent organizational skills, and a farm background are assets. Computer proficiency is needed.

A competitive salary and benefits package is available to the successful candidate.

Claim it before tax time! Please submit resumes by email: 1-844-453-5372

hr@newwayirrigation.com

RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca

www.gulllakeadvance.com

28

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

Seeing Blue? Slow Down, Stay Back, Stay Safe CONTRIBUTED

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

S

askatchewan highways will soon be a little more colourful. Beginning Monday, December 21, blue and amber flashing lights will be activated on all Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure snow removal equipment during regular winter maintenance activities.

“The blue and amber light combination is unique to snow removal equipment, so it helps motorists identify when equipment is working on the highways,” Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for

SGI Don McMorris said on behalf of Highways and Infrastructure Minister Nancy Heppner. “When you see the blue and amber lights flashing, please slow down and stay well back of the snow removal equipment.”

The blue and amber lights will be installed on provincial snowplows, graders and snow blowers.

The light combination will only be used when the equipment is plowing or blowing snow, sanding, salting or surveying the condition of the highways. Saskatchewan joins Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland and the Yukon in adopting the blue and amber light combination.

Southwest Waste Management Authority

invites applications for a full time and or part time Waste Management Technician at the regional landfill.

This position requires a self-motivated individual that can operate and service heavy equipment, general mechanical, welding and computer skills are required.

Electrical mechanical knowledge would be an asset.

Individual must be able to trouble shoot as problems arise, work with public and with minimal supervision.

Must have a valid driver’s licence and be able to work rotational weekends. For more info call 306-297-4020.

Send resume to marlaswlandfill@hotmail.com

SPIRITUAL GLEANINGS

Memories Bring Joy

BY J OY S A S S E

www.canadianruralchurch.net

T

he gift given has come back to me one hundred-fold.

Several years ago, when I heard the Nutcracker was being performed in our nearby city, I picked up tickets for three of my young friends and their moms.

None had ever seen live theatre and never imagined themselves to be patrons of the arts.

I invited the 5 and 6 year olds to my home one afternoon and played for them a filmstrip of the ballet. We spent the full afternoon learning the story, listening to the music, and dancing around the living room.

On the designated day the excitement grew.

First, we would have lunch in a City Restaurant, then go off to the University for the matinee. This was a day of unfolding wonder that was picked up on by the theatre ushers. They decided to sit us in

a cluster, three behind the other, so we could talk together.

It was amazing to hear the children tell the adults what the story was about even before the stage-lights dimmed. And they hummed bits of music recalled from three-weeks previous.

For me the magic came with sitting in the midst of that cluster of theatre-goers as they were transported into that special world of costume, ballet, story, drama, and musical spectacle.

Those “children” have become young adults now.

They are finishing their post-high school studies and are planning their weddings. Only occasionally do I meet one of them. But every Christmas, whether Nutcracker music accompanies an advertisement or heralds a full showing on TV, the music transports me back to our lovely day together.

It was I who gave the gift in the first place, but from the very moment we began our adventure until now that gift has brought tears to my eyes and kept the spark of delight alive in my heart.

Obituaries

INVITATION TO TENDER GRAVEL HAULING

Norman Wallin N

orman Wallin passed away at the Gull Lake Special Care Centre on December 3, 2015, at the age of 94. A Memorial Tea was held at the Tompkins Community Centre on December 10, 2015. Norman was born on the farm on February 20, 1921, to Ernest and Minnie. He received his education at Plainsville School.

Norman hauled his grain to Verlo with horses and sled. In the 30s he bought his first sheep and continued raising sheep until the early 90s. After his father passed away, Norman tended the sheep and cattle, and Frank looked after the farming. Norman stayed on the farm until 4 years ago, when he moved into the long term care home. His son, Ernie, is still working on the farm. Norman is survived by his wife, Melva; his son, Ernie; his sister, Elsie; his brother-in-law, Clifford; and sev-

Main lines Secondary lines Toilets Urinals SEWER-DRAIN Tubs SERVICE Sinks Floor Drains Showers Office: 306-750-1983 Roof Vents Commercial & Residential Sewer Camera City & Rural Service

eral nieces and nephews. His father passed away at in 1947 at the age of 57, and his mother passed away in 1969 at the age of 75. Frank passed away in 1977 in a tractor accident at the age of 55. Norman was also predeceased by his sister, Myrtle, brotherin-law, Morrison, and by several of his in-laws and once niece and nephew.

Donations in the memory of Norman made to the Gull Lake Special Care Centre Auxiliary would be appreciated by the family. Warren’s Funeral Home were entrusted with the arrangements. For further information call 306-773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606 or visit our website at www.warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy to family members in our book of condolences.

The RM of Val Marie No. 17 invites quotes for gravel Loading & Hauling for 2016 year.

Please include: • haul rate ($/yd/mile), • loading rate, • minimum haul distance; • and any surcharges or mobilization charges; • Certificate of Insurance, Commercial General Liability $5,000,000; • Equipment Listing.

Conditions: • Hauling must be completed before July 31, 2016; • WCB Clearance to accompanying all invoices.

Submit tenders to: RM of Val Marie No. 17 Box 59, Val Marie, SK S0N 2T0 Phone: 306-298-2009 Fax: 306-298-2224 E-mail: rm17@sasktel.net DEADLINE: TENDERS MUST BE RECEIVED ON OR BEFORE February 9, 2016 @ 12:00 P.M. All tenders will be considered, but not necessarily accepted.

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| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

We’re proud to be a part of your community. www.crescentpointenergy.com

29

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THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

The Living Hope Ranch facility will be just outside the Cypress Hills on a temporary basis.Photo Provided.

Living Hope Ranch readying new facility

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

L

iving Hope Ranch is pushing toward a January opening date after public meetings for the project were overwhelmingly positive.

“Things were good. We called it a neighbourhood talk. We showed everyone what we were doing and bringing them up-to-date on future developments. We got policies and procedures written and set up some things the public requested,” said Kristen Zilkie, Communications Coordinator for the facility.

“We had guest speakers, including Dallas Block from Rock Solid Refuge, Maple Creek Mayor Barry Rudd and representatives from McMahon Youth Services in Medicine Hat. It was overall a great informational day, and we’re pleased at what we came away with.”

The group officially have a location, as they’re renting out Diamond Willow Retreat, south of Cypress Hills, on a temporary contract.

The faith-based home for troubled youth is finally getting the wheels turning after a long-gestating planning process.

“This place was offered as a kick-

off. We got the agreement and project going, and finding a facility was just a big win for us. With a facility as beautiful as this, now it’s just seeing up and seeing how things progress.”

With the January start date looming, the team behind this are feeling both excitement and a little bit of panic.

“As soon as we signed the contract, it became overwhelming how much we have to do and the programming we still have to work on,” said Zilkie.

“We’ve been contacting parents and finding staff, and we need to secure our finances too. We are elated yet terrified.

This is quickly becoming a reality.”

Zilkie says shelters like these aren’t just needed in the southwest, but across Canada.

“There is just nothing like this for girls. It’s been nine months of finding out what’s available for teen girls, and honestly, things like these currently don’t exist. There is one in Ontario and there is or was one in B.C., but they are for kids 18 and up,” she said.

“I chose this because I’m from, here, I love this area and I feel that rural living could be conducive to the kind of learning and growth we want to instill in these girls.”

Zilkie said the board has told her all the reasons the board wants to be involved, and they all seem quite passionate.

“They have a desire or passion to work with or help girls. For me to move home and talk about wanting to do this was so inspiring for them,” she said.

“Pastor Dave Manley wanted to get behind my dreams and invest in a generational perspective. His commitment came from being my mentor, and it’s amazing for someone to just want to guide your life.

“Everyone wants to see the girls prosperous and happy. We want to change the people we come into contact with.”

She said a lot of the concerns from the community were about security.

“They wanted to make sure their own kids and families were protected, and were worried about an influx of criminal activity. They were concerned about how this might alter their lives. What’s scary for me is the unknowns at the root, because we can’t guarantee certain things,” she said.

“Some issues were around not understanding or being afraid to alter the status quo. We wanted to inform the community as best we could and give

as much insight into our strategies to eliminate concerns and protect the community and kids we are bringing in.”

One thing Zilkie wanted to be clear about was that the incoming girls aren’t criminals.

“We aren’t accepting girls out of the judicial system. They might have records, but this won’t be court-ordered. That is just beyond the scope of our capability. We want girls and families who see and recognize problems and want to push for a solution. There should be a mutual desire for them to be here,” said Zilkie.

“We don’t want to have to convince girls to stay here. They won’t love all their time here, but they will be making the decision that’s best for them. That will make them even more successful. It doesn’t eliminate all risk, but it downsizes the potential for chaos and kids running away.”

While they should be open next month, it’s a mad dash with Christmas around the corner.

“We encourage people to become familiar and check out what we do. This is coming fast and furious and we need everyone on board”

JAE’S PHARMACY Locally Owned and Operated

Power • Performance • Parts

• Complete fuel injection system repair • Positive Air Shutdowns • Power generation

Complete Drive-in Service Phone 306-773-4616 Toll Free 1-888-773-4616 www.swiftcurrentdiesel.ca 1920 Chaplin St. W., Swift Current, SK

Primary Health Care Pharmacy Pharmacotherapy Assessments Healthy Lifestyle Counseling Medication Reviews Integrated eHealth Records Chronic Disease Management Compliance Packaging

Phone: (306) 297-1333 Fax: (306) 297-1335 Jaelee Guenther, BSP Primary Care Pharmacist

335 Centre Street - Shaunavon, SK

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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31

MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015

CHINOOK SPORTS REPORT

Holiday Hours Christmas Eve 9am - 3pm Dec 29, 30 9 am - 6 pm New Years Eve 9am - 3pm

from Sheila & Staff

Closed Dec 25, 26, 27 & 28 Jan 1, 2, 3 & 4

Sheila’s Pantry ‘A Quaint Grocery Store’

109 Maple St. Maple Creek, SK

306-662-2140

1/2 MILE SOUTH OF SHAUNAVON ON HIGHWAY 37 STOP IN OR CALL

306-297-1313

LOW RATE FINANCING AVAILABLE TOO!

MAGNUM FABRICATING LTD

Rebels, Shadows and Ardens victorious

BY D E B R E A M E R

Athletic Coordinator

T

he senior basketball leagues played their last games before the Christmas break. On the girls’side it was Maple Creek on homecourt defeating Frontier 36-30. LeQueasha Gyman had 12 points for the win while Payton Bock added 8. The Raiders were led by Avery Evenson with 13 and Madison Bertram 9 pts. The other girls’ game saw Swift Current Jr Ardens host Gull Lake Lady Lions. The Ardens were led by Lauryn Hayes with 16 pts and won by a score of 58-34.

The Lion’s Montanna Clendenning had 11 pts and Laura Fiddler added 6.

The boys’ side saw Shaunavon Shadows get their second win of the season 82-41 over the host Swift Current Jr Colts. Ryan Selvig led the way for the Shadows with 26 pts and Nixen Voll added 19. The Colts’ Mark Hernandez had 14 pts while Austin Collins added 8. The other boys’ game saw the host Maple Creek Rebels beat Frontier 72-29. Justice Smith had 26 pts for the Rebels and AJ Cruz added another 12.

The Raiders had two players with 8 points – Felix Purposa and Jaden Kinrade-Malbeuf.

www.magnumfabricating.com

113 Hwy 21 North, Maple Creek, SK

306-662-2198

Senior basketball games scheduled for the first part of January include: Tues, January 5: Maple Creek girls @ Gull Lake Shaunavon girls @ Frontier Maple Creek boys @ Shaunavon Swift Current Jr Colts @ Frontier Tues, January 12: Maple Creek girls @ Shaunavon Swift Current Jr Ardens @ Frontier Swift Current Jr Colts @ Shaunavon Maple Creek boys @ Frontier Junior basketball scores: Dec 14: Frontier girls 28 @ Gull Lake 47 Dec 15: Swift Current Comp gr 9 girls 57 @ Wymark 36 Dec 17: Maple Creek girls 9 @ Swift Current Jr Ardens 63 Dec 17: Shaunavon girls 46 @ Waldeck 30.

Junior basketball games scheduled for the first part of January: Thurs, January 7: Gull Lake girls @ Shaunavon Wymark girls @ Maple Creek Swift Current gr 9 girls @ Frontier Waldeck boys @ Shaunavon Swift Current gr 9 boys @ Maple Creek Thurs, January 14: Waldeck girls @ Swift Current gr 9’s Gull Lake girls @ Wymark Swift Current gr 9 boys @ Waldeck Maple Creek girls & boys @ Shaunavon Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Check Us Out For All Your CONVENIENCE item needs:

* Lotto * Magazines * Fresh Subs * Coffee * Pop * Variety of Confectionary items Monday-Friday 6 AM to 9 PM ~ Saturday 7 AM to 9 PM Sunday 6 AM to 9 PM

( ad 1B )

How to complete your ad:

3. 0 0/0 Marilyn Blythman Tel: 306-662-2678 Email: lifestyle@sasktel.net

1Limited time offer for deposits made from December 1, 2015 to March 15, 2016. Manulife Bank’s Tax-Free and Registered Advantage Account promotional interest rate of 3.00% is a variable rate, calculated daily and paid monthly from December 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016 on net new deposits received December 1, 2015 to March 15, 2016. Rates are as at December 1, 2015 and subject to change without notice. Visit manulifebank.ca for full terms and conditions. Manulife, Manulife Bank and the Block Design, are trademarks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it, and by its affiliates under licence.

1. Make sure your name and address are typeset in Frutiger Roman or CS2859

Score a high 3.00% interest rate through May 31, 2016 on every new dollar added to your Manulife Bank TFSA or RRSP1. Ask me how.

Arial. Frontier (Addressinsize should Maple Creek hosted both girls not andbe boys action so big as to overpower the ad.) last Tuesday. Photos by Shelley Drever With respect to type size, use the options shown for reference.

2. Do not change the typeface

32

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Christmas$. r fo ra ic M a g in tt ge is ne eo m So cleaner... um cu va a t no , er ak m ee ff co a Not

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