Gull Lake Advance | Vol. 106 | Issue 44

Leader health facility delayed

Gull Lake 18 boxer wins page

Read the story on Page 9 Monday, November 16, 2015

VOLUME 106 | ISSUE 44 |

www.gulllakeadvance.com

CHAMPS

Shaunavon Shadow team captains (L-R) Jared Stevenson, Josh Peterson, Kyle Dordu, Brock Larson and Jordan Voll hoist up the Provincial 2A 9-man championship plaque after their 42-28 victory over the Delisle Rebels. See page 2627 for the full story and photos. Photo by Beth Jarrell

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Marion Sanford and her son Rhett give a big thumbs up to the community of Frontier for their overwhelming show of support. Photo by Beth Jarrell

Show of support for Sanford Memorial Tournament

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

W

hen six-year-old Blaine Sanford passed away after an ATV accident in Frontier last April, the pain extended from his family and rippled through the entire small community.

The weekend marked a chance to bring some community spirit to a heartbreaking tragedy, as the town and the southwest as a whole banded together to compete in a 3-On-3 Memorial Hockey Tournament in the boy’s honour. The Friday-Saturday event came with plenty of hockey and skating for young and old, and a pancake breakfast and supper on Saturday.

“If anybody knew my son Blaine, they’d know he was a go-getter. He started skating at three, and he was just so talented. I’m not sure where he got it from, but the rink was our second home,” said his mother, Marion Sanford.

“I understand you have funerals, but for my husband Jason and our family, we feel the need to celebrate his life. This tournament was a way to keep Blaine’s memory alive, even though he’s not here.”

Blaine died after an accident on an ATV with his three-year-old brother Rhett, who is stable but still undergoing treatment after sustaining a neck injury. Sanford said the community has been a blessing to

them.

“They have just been unreal. Jason and I were so busy with Rhett when he was fighting for his life. And we decided to put this on and do something great for all the people who took care of us,” she said.

“I tell people ‘thank you’ personally all the time. It’s just an overwhelming feeling.

To survive this and go out and still be a part of this community is amazing. I’m overwhelmed with joy and privileged to live in this place. There is family by blood and family by heart, and that’s what Frontier and this southwest corner are.”

When Blaine passed away, the family spent two months in Saskatoon to help Rhett recover. The help they received was heartwarming.

“Lives matter here in Saskatchewan. It doesn’t matter who you are, you matter.

So many people helped Jason and I. In the spring, neighbours helped with cattle and grain. We got all the help we needed,” she said.

“Rhett had a long haul. He was lucky to survive, and there’s no medical reason why he did. He had a guardian angel. He climbed this hill and has a major surgery coming in January. When you’re that young, scar tissue just doesn’t build like it should.

“It won’t be the easiest, but we have an amazing doctor in Saskatoon and she’s a

Godsend. We’re going to get the best out of everyone helping with Rhett.”

This tournament is a way to keep Blaine’s hockey dreams going.

“He was such a happy-go-lucky kid. He never slowed down, and we called him Forrest Gump because he didn’t know how to slowly do anything. You couldn’t keep up with him,” she said.

“He was a hockey natural, and he did basically everything he tried so well. Accidents happen, but maybe he lived a fastpaced life because deep down he knew he had to get so much into his short life. This tournament is the least I could do for him as his Mama. I love and miss him dearly.”

Perhaps Sanford was most surprised by the support they received from people outside Frontier. The Swift Current Broncos were just one source of comfort.

Charlie Horse, the team mascot, was on-hand Friday to entertain kids.

“We like to be involved with community events, especially when they’re rural and about fundraising. We visit and give our support,” said Broncos Director of Marketing Leigh Duquette.

“Based on this situation, and the tragedy with the family, it was very important we do something. Charlie Horse is so beloved, and we knew kids would want to see him and swarm him.

“The family has been fantastic and so

appreciative of the help they’ve received.

We want to show our support in the face of tragedy, and this family is nothing but grateful.”

This year, the money raised will go to the Blaine Sanford Memorial Playground, as his mother believes money raised should benefit local people.

“I’m so appreciative of all the time and effort being put in. We want this to be the best for everybody. We want it for Blaine, and hearts and souls are going into it,” she said.

“The southwest has such big hearts.

It doesn’t matter how or if people knew Blaine. Everyone wants to lend a helping hand.”

As hockey players, young fans and supportive parents flocked to the event this weekend, Sanford was so grateful her son’s memory could live on.

“Blaine was a huge part of our lives. He’ll always be our special first-born, and we can’t thank the southwest enough for celebrating his short time with us. It means more than we can put into words. It’s not just us who lost out when we lost him,” she said.

“Jason coached hockey, and those boys all loved Blaine like a brother. You know, they say it takes a village to raise children.

They really mean it when it comes to a little town called Frontier.”

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Winter Weights Postponed Province-Wide CONTRIBUTED

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

D

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

ue to an unseasonably warm fall, winter weight allowances will not come into effect until December 1 or until the roadbeds are sufficiently frozen.

Postponing the winter weight program will protect Saskatchewan highways from unnecessary damage. Road structures will be monitored throughout the province on an ongoing basis to determine when winter weights can be implemented.

Colder temperatures freeze and strengthen road structures allowing the ministry to permit additional weight on the highway network. Without sufficient freezing, the extra weights can damage pavement and the road structures beneath.

Commercial vehicle operators can find the latest road restriction orders and related information online at www.highways. gov.sk.ca/restrictions/ or by calling the Highway Hotline in Regina and area at 306-787-7623; Saskatoon and area at 306933-8333; across Canada at 1-888-335-7623; and on the SaskTel Cellular Network at *ROAD. In addition, technical and regulatory information is available from the Transport Compliance Branch Inquiry Line at 1-866933-5290. Truck drivers outside of Saskatchewan can call the same line at 306-933-5290. The line operates weekdays, except statuary holidays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Government of Saskatchewan has invested a record $5.2 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008.

LEST WE FORGET

War veteran, Dwight Small exits the Gull Lake School’s Remembrance Day Service on November 10th. See more photos on page 14.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Maple Creek Tradeshow gears up for big season TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015

5

Chamberlin faces further charges in sex crimes case

businesses coming, things that we don’t havearelocally interested in to

By Jordan Parker As a result of the ongoing investigation against him, These on topwho of thewere sexualvery assault, invitation showcasing what they do, ” she said.

“Of Chamberlin has sseen charges, including touching, sexual interference and sexual extheadditional snow hits, the town of Maplesexual course, we’relaid glad to support too.”

Cabri man Ryan Chamberlin was arrested again two sexual assault charges, an invitation sexual bigploitation charges against him in them, late February.

Creek is gearing up fortoanother While this is only Glass’s fourth Friday, March 20 and charged with additional crimes touching charge, and a count each of sexual interferHe appeared in Swift Current Provincialtrade Court event. show in two years, she says that the before traas more victims came forward in the case against him. ence, sexual exploitation and a corrupting children March 23, and was released on an undertaking The Falling Into Winter Tradeshow, dition of a season-changing tradeshow is charge. on conditions. taking place the weekend of Novembera judge something that been around 39, washas a hockey coach inMaple several 21, will feature artists and craftspeople Chamberlin, Creek for some time.

Saskatchewan communities throughout his from around Southwest Saskatchewan.southern “There have been various other people Event spokesperson Danielle Glass saysadult life. doing like this the to years, andthe There is ashows publication banover in place protect she believes the event will be a big draw I wanted to emulate that as much as posidentity of the victims, and Chamberlin’s next court for the region. ~ Brian ZinChuk ~ sible,” she said. “We do this twice a year, “It’s going to be a lot of fun for anyoneappearance will be April 13 at 9:30 a.m. once in the early summer and once at the around or wanting to come into Maple The investigation is ongoing, and investigators instart ofwith winter. additional information to come forCreek that weekend,” she said. “There arevite people “I’m hoping we can keep it going for a ward. definitely a couple things we haven’t had long time.

It’s growing every time we do before that I’m really excited for. We have this, too, as we get the word out more. I’m about thirty vendors this time. Generally, not planning on stopping any time MLA soon, D. Wayne Elhard, we usually only have 20, so this is a big Pamela Woodland and Robert Harwood. Photo provided. that’s for sure. ” Cypress Hills Constituency increase for us.”

In addition Making to featuring crafts like your voice heard in Regina.

Glass says this year’s tradeshow had woodwork and photography, Glass says 401 Redcoat Drive the goal of being as local as possible.

It doesn’t seem that long ago when I wrote a coldevelopment of a greater national spirit rather than that anyone with a sweet toothSK.will P.O. Box 308, Eastend, S0Nfind 0T0 “We try our best to mostly get local, umn about a remarkable series published since 2011 an emphasis on “states’ rights,” which was one of 1-877-703-3374 something to bringPhone: home with them. within an hour of Maple Creek,” she said. cypresshills.mla@sasktel.net by the New York Times on the U.S. Civil War. Now, the causes of the war.

“Something different we have this time “We want to support our local businesswww.wayneelhard.ca

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R it appears, thatwinter series will soon come to a close.

It’s hard, in our current 21st century context, to is so great here.” is a lot of food items, which I think people es, support our local families, and try to editor@gulllakeadvance.com Called Disunion, the collection of pieces folthat men would volunteer to fight, and in They said things got really easy believe in are really going to enjoy,” she said. “ Lots get the word out there about what they lowed the developments the Civil Wargot in somemany cases, die for the cause of “states’s rights.” In Val Marieofonce they high speed of sugar and candy. We’re going to have do. fter five years spent enjoying thingtheir akin to Internet. real time, albeit 150 years later. As this context, those rights had a lot to do with slavfudge, a group doing a sugar shack with “We try our best to keep it pretty local, life and business in Val Marie, eventsthe unfolded “The throughout the course of we the war, ery. But can you imagine anyone here today volunfirst four years, were tethcotton candy, and lots of others.” because it’s important to support the owners of Harland Press are historians moving andered analysts discussed what impact they teering to stop a bullet for provincial rights in to our cell phones and it was hard The Falling Into Winter Tradeshow people living around you in your comon. had.

Canada? Or even North Dakota rights across the to work. It was hard to do research will take place onLake Saturday, November munity. ”

“My husband and I ended up having The Town of Gull is accepting Disunion can be found at opinionator.blogs.ny49th? The whole concept seems absurd. and communicate with clients long 21 from 10 a.m. go 6 p.m., and on Sunday She adds, however, that there will be applications for student employment with the an opportunity five years earlier than times.com. distance. Uploading and downloadingI still try to wrap my head around the key issue from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Maple some out-of-town representation as well.

Town Maintenance Department Creek UR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER we planned to move out west. We fig31,an2015 I just realized that in a few the MARCH 150th of the Civil War, slavery. How is it that not-so long was hard.

Butweeks as TUESDAY, soon as we got5 high “There will also be a couple out of town Armoury.for the summer of 2015. ured by the time we were in our 70s we of the niversary Confederate at Appoago, slavery was a common practice? (In some parts speed, this wassurrender like anywhere else,” she Applicants must: could move closer to the family, ” said mattox Courtsaid.

House will come up. It seems of the world, it still is).

• be self-motivating Woodland.

By JordanPamela Parker As a result of the ongoingremarkably investigation against him,“We These arewent on top ofonly the sexual assault, invitation to short, that the war lasted four changLet’s consider some other what-ifs. What if the both through major Chamberlin has seenoptions additional charges, including sexual touching, sexual interference and sexual ex• require minimal supervision “We looked at affordable for years.

Confederacy did win the war, not conquering the es, and we had already purchased a n Chamberlin was arrested again two sexual assault charges, an invitation to sexual ploitation charges laid against him in late February.

• have a valid driver’s license moving tocrimes Vancouver Island, and we and charged with additional touching charge, and a count each of sexual He Provincial Court North, Perhaps itinterferseems so short due inMarie. toSwift theCurrent contrast with house inappeared Val That’s how we but successfully succeeding? Would we still me forward in the case against him.

Apply in writing stating experience to: sexual exploitation and a corrupting children March 23, and was released on an undertaking before figured we’d be ence, on a waiting list.

But how long theended United was upStates Wedeployed weren’t to going have to slavery today? Would it extend all the way to charge. a judge onthere. conditions.

Town of Gull Lake this came up so fast, and we Afghanistan, couldn’t the Chamberlin, was hockey nation’s longest wara in its history, California? If not, what would have caused it to move for a few39, years, butcoach wein several lost our Box 150 southern Saskatchewan communities throughout his let the opportunity pass us by.”and Iraq. Iraq jobs, we went. is not and as up” as we thought end? Would a Spartacus-like slave revolt have been adultwrapped life.

12-2eow Gull Lake, SK. S0N 1A0 There is a publication ban place market, to protect the and Pamela and her husbandit Robert The house is still oninthe was, as the U.S. and numerous allies, including inevitable? Would the North have taken another gulllaketown.admin@sasktel.net identity of the victims, and Chamberlin’s next court ~ Brian ZinChuk ~ Harwood starting thinking ofCanada, a moveare getting thingspulled haveinto moved so shot at it, 10 to 20 years later? Would there have appearance will bethe AprilSyria/Iraq 13 at quickly.

9:30 a.m. ISIS The investigation is ongoing, and investigators inabout a year ago, but it was always “Wevitehave it listed, but it’s a bit tense. conflict. a been a series of continental conflicts for decades? people with additional information to come forplan for the distant future.

Allwhat this happen ideally weIf the U.S. had remained fractured into the 20th ward.

I think that’s stands outso thefast, mostand for me, “Living remotely would have chalnever atwanted all the these balls having lived during time when U.S., and up by in the century, what would the impacts have been globlenges the older we got, especially in Canada, D. Wayne war Elhard, MLA ally? Would it have tipped the balance in the First air,” she said.at continual extension, has been since Cypress Hills Constituency the winter with getting to 2001 medical we can’tfrom sell Making it, we may beitopenWorld to War in favour of the Allies? Would it have (As we’ve “If withdrawn Afghanistan, your voice heard in Regina.

MOVIE INFORMATION LINE • (306) 297-2241 • SHAUNAVON appointments. Highway 4 cannational be har401realtor Redcoatpeople Drive yet, but renting it. We have no if the decisive player in the Second World War, take long To the been m that long ago when I wrote a coldevelopment of a greater didn’t spirit rather than to deploy to Iraw).

“Movie Presentation at its Finest!”

P.O. Box 308, Eastend, SK. S0N 0T0 rowing, ” since she2011 said.an emphasis on “states’ rights,” markable series published was one 1-877-703-3374 itof has getsbecome downthe to new thePhone: wire, we’ll get one of ourwhich time, this normal. leading to its superpower status, or would it have cypresshills.mla@sasktel.net k Times on the U.S. Civil War. Now, the causes of the war.

“We started looking at a fiveItto 10context, before wethis. leaveInDecember ” wasn’t always like most cases 7.wars been too concerned about a future conflict with its www.wayneelhard.ca series will soon come to a close.

It’s hard, in our current 21st century to nion, the year collectionplan, of piecesbut fol- itbelieve that men would volunteer to fight, and in never occurred to us Disney shows off its old-fashioned magic with this traditional tale, The and company has One enjoyed success were relatively short often brutal. way or southern neighbour? Would a slave-nation like the lopments of the Civil War in somemany cases, die for the cause of “states’s rights.” In told in a new, re-visionary presentation. something so another, immedilatelycould withexpect the launch Stewart’s person an endofatPat some confederacy have looked kindly on Fascism? Pereal time, albeit 150 years later.could As thishappen context, those rights had a lot to doawith slavThurs., Fri., Sat., Mon., April 2, 3, 4, 6 - 7:30 PM Rated G d throughout the course of thewere war, ery.

But can you imagine anyone here today volunSUMMER STUDENT ately.

We stumped at first, but Not Just Words and Harwood’s own point, with someone “winning.” That’s not somehaps it would have even allied with German and nalysts discussed what impact they teering to stop a bullet for provincial rights in EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY ultimately decided to Or goeven with ” rights launch of I Went Down St. Canada?

Northit.

Dakota the thing we across are recent seeing today.

Modern war may be To Italy?

The Town of Gull Lake is accepting be found at opinionator.blogs.nyTheVal whole Marie, concept seemswhen absurd.

Unfortunately 49th? for James Infirmary. “won” in the opening weeks, but then drag on forAnd would there be a black president now? Or applications for student employment with the I still try to wrap my head around the key issue Maintenance Department couple moves, soWar,does Harland d that in a the few weeks the 150th anof the Civil slavery. ever.

How is it that not-so long “Not JustTown Words is doing well, and would Barack Obama have belonged to some masfor the summer of 2015. e Confederate surrender at Appoago, slavery was a common practice? (In some parts beginning April 17th Press. we’reposting already looking at reprints.

Applicants Indeed, today’s ponders themust: question of There ter, with a whip in hand?

House will come up. It seems of the world, it still is).

• be self-motivating ort, that the war lasted Let’s consider somean other what-ifs. the What Confederacy if has the “Itonly kind offour goes with us. It’s entirely been could tremendous support whether have won the war. from Coming soon ... Do You Believe? & Boy Choir • require minimal supervision Confederacy did win the war, not conquering the •increased have a valid driver’s licensesales book portable enterprise.

One of the the community.

My husband’s Thethings “what-ifs” range from cotton Brian Zinchuk is editor of Pipeline News. ms so short due to the contrast with North, but successfully succeeding?

Would we still Apply in writing stating experience to: United States was the deployed to have slaveryis today?

Would it extend all the wayrecently to about digital world that we aren’t Town ofavailable Gull Lake before the blockade took became hold to General Robertfor E. order He can be reached at brian.zinchuk@sasktel.net Check out our NEW website! e nation’s longest war in its history, California? If not, what would have caused it to Box 150 rooted inthought any particular locale, ” she too. ” s not as wrapped up as we end? Would a Spartacus-like slave revolt have been Lee’s style of command.

One what-if centred 12-2eow Gull Lake, SK. S0N 1A0on the .S. and numerous Would the North have taken another www.plazatheatre.ca gulllaketown.admin@sasktel.net said. allies, including inevitable?

Woodland says though they’ve ting pulled into the Syria/Iraq ISIS shot at it, 10 to 20 years later? Would there have However, therebeenare plenty ofconflicts things a series of continental for decades? enjoyed success in Val Marie, the show what stands out the most for me, If the U.S. had remained fractured into the 20th about Val Marie that they will miss. must sadly go on elsewhere. uring at time when the U.S., and by century, what would the impacts have been globda, has been at“We continual war since WouldWe it havelive tippedin the balance love this ally? place. suchin the First “But with peopleTheatre thinking of moving Plaza e withdrawn from Afghanistan, it World War in favour of the Allies? Would it have MOVIE INFORMATION LINE • (306) 297-2241 SHAUNAVON there a sweet spot and have an acre of land. to Val Marie, they have to •realize g to deploy to Iraw). To the people been the decisive player in the Second World War, “Movie Presentation at its Finest!” s has become the been new normal. leadingto to itsbe superpower status, or would it have It’s a privilege here for five are so many things you can do here. ways like this. In most cases wars been too concerned about a future conflict with its Cinderella made friends in aWould way that like There Disney shows off its with this traditional tale, aren’t aold-fashioned crazymagicamount of jobsMakes a Great Gift Idea! short and years. often brutal.We One way or southern neighbour? a slave-nation the told in a new, re-visionary presentation. on could often expect antakes end at some have lookedsaid. kindly on Fascism? Pertwiceconfederacy as long, ” she Thurs., Fri., Sat., Mon., April 2, 3, 4, 6 - 7:30 PM G “Your Southwest Community Newspaper” here, but things like what weRateddid can Mail this form with payment to Winquist Ventures Ltd. meone “winning.” That’s not somehaps it would have even allied with German and “BothwarBob I are accustomed to Anywhere eeing today. Modern may beand Italy?

Canada still be done soin viably, ” she said.

Box 628, Gull Lake, Sask. S0N 1A0 Box 628 Gull Lake, Sask. S0N 1A0 pening weeks, but then drag on forAnd would there be a black president now? Or urban environments, so that won’t be exciting fullprice) of writers one an year ($23 offplace the cover Phone: (306) 672-3373 would Barack Obama have belonged$42 to somefor mas- “It’s Name: y’s postingstrange. ponders the question ter, with in hand?

But ofafter thea whip birds and trees and artists, andbeginning you April can17threally thrive in ____________________________________ Fax: (306) 672-3573 nfederacy could have won the war.

Coming soon ... Do You Believe? & Boy Choir WWW.MHC.AB.CA CAMPUSES INemail: BROOKS AND MEDICINE HAT kate.winquistventures@sasktel.net and being Theis editor Grassthis community if you choose to make range from increased cottonhere, sales we’ll miss Brianit.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Gull Lake Mayor getting recognized for EMS work • 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

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BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

G

ull Lake Mayor Blake Campbell finds himself being honoured for his work in the Emergency Medical Services sector.

Campbell, who is the CEO of Gull Lake Ambulance Service, will receive a Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal for his work in the field.

“It recognizes exemplary long-term service.

Police, firefighters and EMS personnel are eligible. I got the call yesterday from a protocol officer telling me I had been nominated and approved,” he said.

“I have a ceremony in Moose Jaw to go to December 8, which I’m really excited for.”

Campbell said even the nomination was news to him.

“I believe the nomination came from colleagues in Swift Current, but I had no idea. My wife knew, but didn’t tell me,” he said.

“I’ve been in EMS for years. That and Emergency Measures Coordinating are things I’ve been involved with. I’ve been doing this work since May 1985.”

When Campbell first started out, the town was at risk of losing their ambulance services altogether.

“It was strictly volunteer, and down to four people. They were getting tired of one week

on and one week off. At the time, the hospital board was talking to the Swift Current ambulance services about covering us,” he said.

“Largely due to Jim Kalinowski, people were recruited here. I got the phone call asking for my help, and I said yes. I wondered what I had got myself into after, but I took extra training and furthered my education so I could help.”

He said all you needed was first aid and CPR back then, but there was so much equipment you wouldn’t know how to run.

“I went by my first accident with a friend who became a paramedic. We hadn’t even done an ambulance call and it was a rollover near where South West Terminal is now,” he said.

“Our guys were down there helping, and we wondered if we should help, but we were so over our heads until we knew that equipment.”

Campbell worked part-time until 1987, when he got his EMT course and the full-time guy quit.

“He left in September of that year, and I took over. It was business as usual until 2005, when they came out with a new level of training. I became a Primary Care Paramedic.”

Campbell climbed the ladder to where he is now, but it hasn’t always been easy to work in a small town.

“Working here can be different. We know people, and we know everyone who will get our call. We aren’t going to strangers. You are help-

ing friends and family, which can be stressful,” he said.

“You can end up on scene with someone who’s badly injured, and knowing that person can hit home. It affects you.”

Campbell is so happy where he works and with whom he surrounds himself. He is proud of his staff and excited for this award.

“I’m honoured colleagues thought of me for this. It means a lot coming from them, and I can’t wait for this honour.”

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6

Commentary

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Vive la France You can support

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

our veterans and shine your lights

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

R

emembrance Day just passed, a holiday meant to celebrate and give credence to all those veterans -- past and present -- who have worked for us to have the freedoms we have today.

While everyone trotted off to ceremonies, poppies donned on their winter coats, and paid their respects, there was an air of unapologetic importance to the day.

Not that this is off the mark. This -- for all intents in purposes -- is one of the most somber, sobering and truly serious days of the year, and should be treated as such.

Those soldiers not only deserve kudos, but the unconditional respect of the communities and families they served.

However, at what point does respect and adoration turn toxic? With a middleof-the-week Remembrance Day, some shops had to stay open to make a buck.

Some had to forego tradition in order to stay afloat.

But with that decision comes with the guilt; with the idea that somehow not participating, for whatever reason, means you don’t support our troops.

Remembrance Day is a time to give thanks and show respect, so why is it that the most noble and honourable of holidays is used by a minority to make others feel bad?

It’s a stat holiday, but not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to take that day and reflect, or attend ceremonies.

That doesn’t make them bad people: That makes them people with commit-

People can respect their veterans and show their support on Remembrance Day whether they went out after Halloween and put up their lights or not. ments they can’t just drop.

Then there are the overzealous ones who catch a bad rap also. The ones who put up Christmas lights or trees with their families before the cold winds blow through the Canadian flags on November 11.

There are the stores selling decorations, eggnog and playing yuletide carols over loudspeakers. There are people who are giddy for Christmas and everything that comes with it.

But why can’t people show respect for one day without diminishing their excitement or preparation for the other?

People can respect their veterans and show their support on Remembrance Day whether they went out after Halloween and put up their lights or not.

Just because you’re preparing doesn’t mean you’ve “skipped” Remembrance Day. So for those of you who waited until this week to start the Christmas traditions you love so much out of respect, kudos.

But if you don’t want to, don’t let people make you feel like you have to.

People are more than capable of decking the halls and still managing to line legion walls. And they shouldn’t be told which one should come first.

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.

BY S H E R I M O N K

sherimonk@gmail.com

N

ormal, sane people do not like terrorist attacks – no matter where they may perch on the political spectrum. I have friends who are rabidly conservative and others who are absurdly left of me. And when the news about the terrorist attacks last Friday in Paris started to break across Facebook, I never saw a single person taking pleasure in the horror. If I had, they would no longer be “friends”.

As I write this, the morning after the attacks, the death toll is somewhere between 140 and 200. It’s horrific, it’s frightening, and my heart aches for the people of France. ISIS has claimed responsibility for the orchestrated acts of terrorism, and predictably, people in Canada and the U.S. are having both anger and fear-based reactions across social media.

“Canada not only stops fighting these terrorists, we welcome them with open arms!”

“Prayers that France will arm its citizens to stop this in the future.”

“That’s what happens when you let in that many Muslims! Prayers for France.”

“This is a war against Islam and all Muslims must be wiped out.”

We don’t welcome terrorists with open arms here. No one does. And does anyone really believe that cutting off the tide of Muslim refugees or immigration has the power to stop Islam extremism? Nearly 10 per cent of France’s population is Muslim – most of who were at some point, immigrants, refugees, or the children of immigrants and refugees. But those people aren’t the terrorists – no matter how fervently some people wish they were.

Most Muslims are peaceful people, just like you and me. There are nearly two billion people in the world who identify as Muslims, and most are just out there trying to make a living and raise their children. Most Christians are doing the exact same thing, but

make no mistake, there are terrorist Christian organizations too, and a faction in the Central African Republic has killed more than 1,000 Muslims this year alone. The homegrown terrorist acts against American abortion clinics and a lesbian nightclub were rooted in Christianity. An ordained Christian minister and former rightwing congressional candidate was arrested this year for planning bombing attacks against a Muslim school and mosque in New York. I know many Christians, and not a single one of them would identify with those acts of terrorism. Not a single one of them would agree that violence is within the teachings of Christ, or that those few terrorists represent the views of mainstream Christianity.

The only reason why Christian terrorism isn’t widespread is because in most of the countries where Christianity is the dominant faith, the citizens have economic security, religious freedom, a functional justice system and a stable foundation of democracy. Once you take those critical building blocks of prosperity away, all bets are off and any population is ripe for extremist exploitation.

When we allow fear to overcome us, when we allow hatred to root and then to thrive, we allow anyone different from us to become the enemy. Once upon a time, that enemy was anyone who looked, smelled, or acted like a communist. Every era has a different enemy, but each side is united by fear.

Our current Muslim McCarthyism can have only one result and it is as predictable as it is inhumane – moderate Muslims will be isolated and alienated by primarily Christian/western fear and hatred, and extremism ideology will spread.

We cannot win the war on terror by using cultural, political and religious segregation as weapons – not unless we want the slaughter to continue unabated. ISIS was born in a cradle of instability created in large part by the Iraq war. That doesn’t justify or excuse the unfathomable atrocities committed

by ISIS, but such an omission is not just contextually erroneous, it’s historically

dangerous. “Those who cannot remember history are condemned to repeat it.”

Radical Islam is just the flavour of the day and if world economics and global power were on a different distribution grid, the eastern world could very well be facing a radical western threat under a superficial veil of Christianity. The religion doesn’t matter, because religion only gives the perceived moral sanction for the corrupt to exploit, and the desperate to be exploited.

Radical Islam already lives in Canada and in America. With modern travel, international trade and deceptively porous borders, creating a Muslim-specific isolationist domestic and foreign policy is only going to exacerbate one of the most compound, complex religious, geopolitical and economic challenges the world has ever known.

Yes, ISIS scares me. Yes, they are a threat the likes of which we have not seen until now. They are different than previous threats, and there is no doubt that their brand of Islam is the most extreme, volatile variety we have ever encountered. ISIS is fundamentally different than the Taliban and al-Qaeda, and a significantly greater threat.

We aren’t at war with the Muslim people – we are at war with those that have hijacked the Muslim faith in the name of Allah to fulfill their perverted totalitarian, archaic religious ideals.

This is a war we cannot win unless the majority of the world’s Muslims are included among our rank… for every single Muslim we exclude, we risk sending to the other side.

To France and her people, stand strong. I hope you will continue to drink your wine and make your love, and do not give into the same fear North America succumbed to after 9/11. I hope Canada will fight by your side in your pursuit for justice by going after ISIS, but I hope that in the heat of the battle, neither one of us lose our humanity – because that’s what makes this war worth fighting.

Vive la France.

FROM THE TOP OF THE PILE

The Force Awakens in the Zinchuks

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

brian.zinchuk@sasktel.net

I

n a little over a month’s time, a journey that began when I was just two years old will take its next step.

It’s as if Star Wars has always been a part of my life, and I guess it has.

It’s going to be hard to sleep the night before Dec. 18, premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

The difference is this time, I will be sitting beside my two kids, their eyes wide in wonder as they take in their first Star Wars movie in a theatre.

As a kid, I grew up during the initial trilogy, although, curiously, it was at the periphery, in drips and drabs. I never actually saw the original Star Wars or The Empire Strikes Back until they appeared on television in the mid1980s. We didn’t have a VCR when I was young, nor, do I think, was it available anyhow. But I did see the making-of specials. And in 1983, my mom took me to my second movie ever in a theatre, Return of the Jedi. (I was eight, the same age my son is now.)

So my early years as a Star Wars nut coalesced around a read-along book of Empire Strikes Back, with its own 45 rpm record, a picture story book about Star Wars, and eventually the novelization of Return of the Jedi. I also had bubble gum trading cards from Empire.

My first Star Wars toy was a an

‘action figure’ of a parka-wearing rebel trooper from the Hoth sequence of Empire. Dad bought it from me while in Toronto. I was suitably impressed.

I somehow ended up with used Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker figures, a Yoda, C-3P0 and Bespin guard.

That was about it. Dad picked up a mostly-complete Millennium Falcon from an auction sale. Christmas brought a sand crawler and the ultimate, the AT-AT walker.

Pretty meagre pickings, especially compared to what my kids have today.

But a long time ago, on a farm, far, far away, it had to do.

When the prequels came out, there was a bit of a quandary. You see, The Phantom Menace was released the week I was to get married. What to do, what to do? This was a question not only for me, but our friends who had to choose between standing up for us or sitting in a theatre. Somehow, we accomplished both. (My newly minted wife and I saw it on our honeymoon) But my wife didn’t really appreciate having to go to Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith as part of our anniversary celebrations.

Thus it’s probably a good thing The Force Awakens is coming out on Dec. 18, my slowest time of the year. That should allow me to take the kids at least three times, without too much conflict.

It’s interesting to watch Spencer’s growing eagerness for Star Wars. For

Christmas a year or two ago, I give the kids the entire collection of Phantom Menace figures I had hoarded after it came out. I thought maybe someday they would be worth some money, but searches of eBay found that not to be the case (care for a Senator Palpatine or Jar Jar Binks, anyone?). He’s also inherited all my original toys from when I was his age. The AT-AT, sandcrawler and Millennium Falcon seem to have gone missing after my high school years, but he has the figures, along with G.I. Joes and Transformers.

He hardly plays with them.

But he is totally wrapped up with Lego Star Wars. He’ll show me new creations daily, sometimes hourly. Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars Lego: The Yoda Chronicles, both animated TV shows, are favourites not to be missed.

To him, these are the bubble gum trading cards and read-along book.

And that’s why he was Darth Vader for Halloween.

If Star Wars is the family story of the Skywalkers, then being a fan may be the family story of the Zinchuks, and that of millions of other families around the world.

Will there be a Millennium Falcon under the Christmas tree? Wouldn’t a little boy want to know….

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

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

7

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Home is where the sanity is

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

megan@gulllakeadvance.com

T

his past week was reading week at the University of Saskatchewan. For me, it literally meant a week filled with extra reading (trust me, constitutional law is just as exciting as it sounds).

For the two weeks previous I’d been in Saskatoon for the entirety of the time.

Catching crowded buses filled with people singing Justin Bieber and taking up as much space as humanly possible, attending classes filled with people who hadn’t slept since the semester started and trying to remember to lock my car so people wouldn’t help themselves to the five dollars I leave in there to pay for half an hour of parking when I need to stop by the school.

Needless to say, by the end of my two week stint in Saskatoon I was very nearly ready to introduce my fist to someone’s face. School felt overwhelming, projects were weighing

heavy and my significant other/sounding board was two weeks into a trip that took him 13,000 kms and 13 hours away from Saskatchewan.

So the minute Friday at 3:30 p.m. hit I was out of Saskatoon like a flash. I’d packed my bag the night before, dedicating one bag to clothes and another to textbooks, notebooks and other school assignments. You can guess which bag was larger.

I even paid $6 to park for an hour and a half, just so I wouldn’t have to wait to catch the bus. I cranked my favourite tunes on the way home and watched gratefully as the city faded from my rear view mirror.

I had decided I would try to accomplish a variety of tasks over my break – maybe visit some friends in Regina or head to Medicine Hat – but by Thursday the only thing I had accomplished was fully situating myself back in Cadillac.

It was like my life had slowed down six speeds and I couldn’t have been more grateful. At my parents I’d spend the day watching movies and typing up notes from

classes. When the first snow hit I went for a drive to enjoy the first sign that winter was truly coming. I played with kittens at the barn, snuggled with my 100 lb. yellow lab and enjoyed some deep sleeps in my childhood room.

I revisited my dad and uncle’s shop – spending some time drinking coffee and telling stories without a care in the world.

We discussed heavy issues, but with a tone of hope and understanding.

Coming home was like coming up for air after drowning in the city. Everyone I saw knew my name, my dad’s name and where my grandparents’ family homesteaded.

I’m not going to say that life is simpler in a small town than it is in the city, but for me there’s a comfort in it. It provides the perspective to me that often hides in the city.

Here I’m Megan, there I’m just a girl with curly hair and no make-up on.

In the city I know the names of maybe three streets, in southwest Saskatchewan I know the name and location of nearly every town – and I’m acquainted with nearly

every person in the twenties.

There’s a comfort at home that everything is going to be okay, that what truly matters will overcome your doubts and worries about the small things.

Looking outside my bedroom window in the city I see another house, filled with people I don’t know. Looking out my bedroom window in Cadillac I see my uncle Leo’s house, my uncle Joe’s house, my uncle Romeo’s farmland, my family’s shop sign and miles of sky.

I’m grateful for my opportunity to learn in the city, but the lessons and people I’ve met at home will always have more of an influence. I’m proud to be a part of the culture and history that is stitched into this area.

For me, coming home is a feeling I equate with my childhood – a deep-seeded happiness and reassurance that everything, even 50 pounds of law textbooks, will be okay.

Doping in sports

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

W

hile I suppose the use of performance enhancing drugs is nothing really shocking these days, the news that some athletes have been suspended for doping is still taking the media by frenzy.

In case you’ve missed it, let’s catch up. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) is considering holding sanctions against Russian athletes, thereby forbidding them from competing in events such as the 2016 Olympics.

This all comes after a report on Monday from the World Anti-Doping Agency’s commission, which found a state-sponsored doping program in Russia. The IAAF wants Russia to be suspended from competing until proof it has begun complying with global rules on drug use.

The report also alleges that Russian officials blackmailed athletes into not only taking the drugs, but also covering them up by destroying samples of positive tests.

Meanwhile, many of Canada’s athletes, such as Olympian Hilary Stellingwerff are feeling short-changed after not qualifying for short-go performances in Olympic level competitions.

But as good as it feels to point the finger at Russia in that old famous “I knew they were up to something”, let’s remember something here- we’ve got problems of our own.

Look no further than Major League Baseball as a catalyst of this. In the late 1990’s, baseball players like Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco weren’t the first, but they definitely were the most famous to receive attention for doping.

Of course, even though they denied the allegations until they were blue in the face, the damage had already been done to their reputations, and as good as those athletes were, they will never be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

But even today we see steroid use in Major League

Baseball. Just a couple years ago a major player bust over all of MLB saw the Biogenesis scandal, in which 14 MLB players were suspended, including famous New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez for almost all of the 2014 season.

It’s hard to say where to draw the line with professional athletics and performance enhancers. A sport like baseball is extremely stringent with what they allow players to do and not do. Steroid injection, Human Growth Hormone and others have been banned, yet others, such as Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) are allowed.

Even if we move past the question of why are some legal and some not, there is still the question of what punishment can be deemed appropriate, whether in global events like the Olympics, or in one league of sport, like MLB. It gets even more complicated when we realize that a lot of the players named in big scandals such as the Biogenesis one are extremely young, and are doing it as to not lose their chance in the big leagues.

Jose Bautista wrote an excellent piece on The Players Tribune about how much pressure young Hispanic ballplayers are under to make it to the majors to provide for their families.

I’d imagine it’s the same for the blackmailed young Russian athletes that have been named in the scandal.

The problem is one of steroid culture, and it’s taking place in not only professional, but also High School locker rooms across the globe. A problem like this needs to be taken care of at the root, not with a countrywide sanction.

It will be interesting to see how the IAAF responds to this, and whether they will go with a blanket approach, such as sanctions, or individual punishment. No matter what the result is, it’s important to remember that before we can go pointing the finger at Russia, we must first examine ourselves.

Christmas cups not worth anyone’s concern

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

I

f you haven’t heard about this holiday cup nonsense by now, I salute you and want to come hang out under whatever rock you call home.

This recent ridiculousness all started when Starbucks unveiled their new holiday cup -- a red, nonchalant styrofoam monstrosity -- to be enjoyed during the winter season.

People, but mostly the media, went absolutely insane, calling for the old Christmas-themed, Christian-holiday celebrating cups of old to return.

This was once again proving that while whack jobs who turn a cup into a fight for religious freedom are a minority these days, by God, they’re the loudest though.

Even Donald Trump got in on all the hoopla, because God forbid he shut his mouth about anything these days.

“I have one of the most successful Starbucks in Trump Tower,” he said.

“Maybe we should boycott Starbucks? I don’t know. Seriously, I don’t care. By the way, that’s the end of that lease but who cares.

“If I become president, we’re going to be saying Merry Christmas again, that I can tell you. That I can tell you.

Unbelievable.”

It’s now become a farce, with a literal coffee cup somehow signifying a

loss of good Christian values instead of being a beacon for the inclusion of everyone, and all religions and faith bases.

This isn’t a majority rules thing, folks, this is people’s religions. It’s called respect. You don’t purposely exclude based on religion, sexuality or any other foundational aspect of someone’s life.

And all Starbucks was doing was properly ushering the season for all their customers.

“We have anchored the design with the classic Starbucks holiday red that is bright and exciting,” said Jeffrey Fields, Starbucks Vice President of Design & Content in a news release.

“Starbucks has become a place of sanctuary during the holidays. We’re embracing the simplicity and the quietness of it. It’s a more open way to usher in the holiday.”

The release further makes the company’s position fear.

“Creating a culture of belonging, inclusion and diversity of one of the core values of Starbucks, and each year during the holidays the company aims to bring customers an experience that inspires the spirit of the season. Starbucks will continue to embrace and welcome customers from all backgrounds and religions.”

It’s baffling how this -- somehow -- became a reason to shame and boycott a company. Things have gone to far when people go wild over cups.

There’s absolutely no reason for it.

Ellen Degeneres perhaps had the funniest response to this whole great catastrophe Starbucks has caused.

“People are mad about this cup because they are saying Starbucks is being ‘anti-Christmas.’ The old cups and snowflakes and Santa’s sleigh and elves, you know -- all the things you find in the Bible,” she said on her show.

“I mean look at these things. You may as well call them a ‘Satan sipper.’”

This got laughs from an audience clearly in on this whole joke of a spectacle as well. It’s amazing, really, that the powder-keg went off over, of all things, a cup.

This has become an all-out media frenzy over the fight for Christian religion, as if a holiday cup could push them into obscurity.

Everyone needs to realize we can live together, in harmony, and practice any religion we like. All that needs to be done is people need to stop acting like their way is better than anyone else’s.

So this holiday season, I’m getting a Starbucks cup, and I’m getting a sharpie and writing on that cup.

Written on it? “If this offends you, get a life,” in nice, felt-tip ink.

Because this country is built on the idea you can deck your halls with exactly whatever you want, and it’s high-time those who yell the loudest get shown just how stupid they sound.

8

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Great Plains and Rotary Club celebrate English language training success

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he partnership between Great Plains College and the Swift Current Rotary Club has paid off, with over 400 English Language Learners accessing the language lab since the March 2011 opening.

A press conference was held in the lab last Monday as learners spoke about their experiences and the Rotary Club and college gave encouragement.

Michel Cyrenne, Director of Development for the program, said the Rotary Club has been supportive on

many levels, including financially.

“They contributed $50,000 to Great Plains for this language lab. It was used for instruction for English as an Additional Language and other related learning,” he said.

“We were doing a major renovation as a whole when this got going. We had new reception, a new lounge and study area, a couple labs and a new electrician and welding shop. But we wanted a space for newcomers to the community. Our primary concern was their ability to communicate and interact with locals.”

The Rotary was able to help with that vision.

Luis Para moved to Swift Current from Colombia with his wife in 2013. He said the language lab is the door to making their dreams a reality.

“They provided the money over a five-year period, and half went to capital construction and the other half went to computers and software for language learning. It’s been great to work with them, and they’ve been so happy with the progress,” he said.

“This has been fantastic, and they care about this community. They have been more than generous.”

He said there are so many newcomers to the area, and the biggest challenges is businesses working through language barriers with people.

“We can only imagine how difficult it is for out newcomers, in a new place with a new job. So we have this institution focused on creating graduates who can be comfortable in the workplace,” he said.

“Our goal is to help our newcomers and help our business community.

This was a demand we had, and we are helping people speak and communicate.”

Martin Harvey, District Governor of District 5360 Rotary International, said the previous way this was done was like a travelling education mode.

“We looked at this and said if there was a dedicated lab, it could mean a world of difference. This is an area with computers and with people who can help with learning at various levels,” he said.

“Newcomers show up knowing little to nothing, but they come to learn so much. Putting this all in one place has helped set everything up.

“This is just wonderful, and talking to folks who went through this has shown just how much these people were helped.”

Report from the Legislature

D. Wayne Elhard, MLA Cypress Hills

Support Our Troops License Plate Now Available in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan residents can now honour and support military members and their families with a Support Our Troops licence plate depicting silhouettes of different branches of the Canadian military. Customers can order a plate for $55 at a motor licence issuer.

Our government is offering the Support Our Troops licence plate to show respect, and help aid military families who serve our country. We are grateful for the service of these brave men and women, and want to acknowledge the sacrifices they make for our freedom.

Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) will receive $30 from each plate to support their Saskatchewan operations. For more information about the Support Our Troops licence plate or other specialty licence plates, visit SGI’s website at www.sgi. sk.ca.

Scholarship of Honour Recognizes Armed Forces Members and Families

Our government appreciates the courage and dedication of the many women and men serving in Canada’s Armed Forces and we are pleased to honour their bravery and commitment to Canada. Because of their sacrifices, we live in a country of freedom and peace.

The Saskatchewan Scholarship of Honour recognizes returning soldiers as well as the spouses and children of injured or fallen members of Canada’s Armed Forces. 18 individuals were recently recognized as recipients of a one-time award of $5,000 toward post-secondary education.

Since 2009 147 scholarships, totalling $735,000, have been awarded. Twelve of these recipients are family members of injured or fallen soldiers. Learn more at www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/education-and-learning/scholarships-bursaries-grants/ scholarships/saskatchewan-scholarship-of-honour

New Schools, New Community Childcare Spaces, and New Jobs

Our government pledged to continue investing in infrastructure and we’re seeing that in new schools, new community and childcare spaces, and new jobs.

Just recently, the new Hudson Bay Community School held its grand opening. This PreK-12 school includes a 36 space child care centre.

Currently, twenty-seven Saskatchewan companies are working on the largest schools build in our province’s history. The $374 million project will see 18 new elementary schools and more than 800 child care spaces built to serve Saskatchewan’s fastest-growing communities by September 2017.

This is part of our plan to build 40 new schools and provide major renovations to another 25. Since 2007, we have committed approximately $966 million toward 65 major school capital projects and numerous smaller projects such as portable classrooms and preventative maintenance and renewal.

Insook Kim, an English Language Training student at Great Plains College, moved to Swift Current from South Korea in 2010. She thanked the Rotary Club for supporting the language lab.

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Province Announces Incentive Program to Sell Agricultural Crown Land

A new incentive program has been announced to encourage the sale of eligible agriculture crown land to lessees. All agricultural Crown land, including cultivated, grazing and hay land that is deemed to have no public and low environmental benefit, will be eligible. Our priority is administering land that has a higher public good from an ecological, environmental, heritage or economic perspective.

From now until March 31, 2016, a 15% discount will be applied to all sales. The incentive drops to 10% on April 1, 2016 and 5% on January 1, 2017. Approximately 600,000 acres of land may be sold under this program.

If a lessee does not purchase the land, they may continue leasing. However, rental rates on eligible cultivated lands and previously cultivated lands will increase for the 2016 cropping season by approximately 15 per cent over the formula rate and by 30 per cent over the formula rate for the 2017 cropping year.

GULL L AKE

Craft & Mini Trade Show Saturday, NOVEMBER 21st Gull Lake Community Hall

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

40 Vendors of Handcrafts, Quilting, Sewing, Baking, Woodwork & Home-Based Businesses

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9

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Leader healthcare facility delayed

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

“If the budget is increased, the town will probably be responsible for a good portion of that too, which means tax increases for us, but that’s how it is with builds,”

T

he new Leader Integrated Healthcare Facility has been delayed.

The facility, which has been years in the making, was put on delay after it was found that Cypress’ tenders received from various contracts would not be enough to cover the budgeted amount.

Brenda Schwan, the Vice President of Human Resources and Capital Projects, says the situation was unexpected.

“We’ve had some issues come up, and one of them is tenders have come in over budget to this project,” she said. “We’ve been working with an architectural firm to try and understand why these costs are so much higher than expected.”

According to Schwan, Cypress is working with AODBT Architecture to analyze the project and where cost-cutting measures can come in.

“We really are just going over line-byline to try and understand what’s driving those costs,” she said. “Once we have that analysis done, then we will get to kind of what our next steps will be.

“We’ve had an initial meeting with our Ministry of Health, and we decided to go back to the lowest architectural bidder and have them tell us what our options are in order to move this project forward.”

While Schwan says the organization is disappointed with the delay, it is with the understanding that they will work to move forward from here.

“It’s due process at this time, and once we really understand what is in that tender and understand the costs, that’ll determine how to move this project forward best,” she said. “It’s too early to tell if the community will have to do more fundraising. Once we get a better understanding of the line-by-line driving those costs, we’ll know.”

A different perspective

Chairman of the Leader Trust Advisory Tim Geiger says that while the council is disappointed with the development, in no way are they preparing for the worst.

“If it’s going to be delayed somewhat, so be it,” he said. “We’ve been working on this for so many years. What I find the most frustrating are the naysayers who come out now and say ‘I told you so.’ I’m not naïve, I’m just optimistic.

“We’re very optimistic that the facility is still going to go ahead. The government has assured us of that, and in the long run maybe you’re better off to start in the spring on a project rather than trying to fight through the winter.”

Geiger believes part of the problem

comes not from improper budgeting, but instead from the state of the Canadian dollar internationally.

“The government is looking at a couple other things in the project, what’s costing so much and more,” he said. “The big thing is the American dollar being what it is, since a lot of our supplies come from there.

“In the future the provincial government will look at projects like this and see that it’s all across the board that there are cost increases, and it’s something you have to deal with.

“There’s more than the government involved here. They’re going to talk to the lowest bidder and see where they think the cost is coming from. The government estimates and what the bidder did was 35 to 40 per cent apart. That’s a huge difference.”

In order for a new facility to be built, the community must partner with the provincial government to raise 20 per cent of the cost. While the state of the provincial funds may be out of his hands, Geiger says the 20 per cent he is responsible for has already been taken care of.

“Our local funding will be in place, our fundraising costs of 20 per cent. We’ve lined that up already. On a $12 to $15 million dollar project, it’s not huge dollars here, especially when we’re talking about 20 per cent. It’s manageable,” he said.

“We’ll talk to our local government, urban and rural and come up with another few dollars, but it depends what the provincial government comes up with in terms of cost-saving measures.”

Geiger says that if the budget has to increase for the project, he believes it can be done with ease.

“I’m sure something will be found to scale back, or some efficiency will be

A town united

Alison Deux, owner of the Leader Pharmacy, believes the delay won’t affect the people living in Leader in the long run.

“Because it’s so long since it will actually be ready, right now it’s not affecting us too badly,” she said. “In the long run, if it keeps getting delayed that’ll be a whole new story, though.

“If they can figure it out and get it started too build, we won’t be too far delayed.

Our current hospital has some repairs that need to be done, so they were hoping to have it built fairly quickly. I still think it will be built within a reasonable time frame, though.”

While Deux says the delay is disappointing, it comes as no surprise to her and the others living in the town.

“We waited a long time for it to happen in the first place, so it’s not that surprising that it’s been delayed, because we’ve been waiting years for the funding to come

through from the government,” she said.

There has been talk of a new or improved facility in Leader for years, and while the town needs the facility, Deux says she believes no one will mind waiting a few more months.

“Right now, no one is shocked. Things were slower moving than we were told at the beginning, so we sort of saw this coming,” she said. “I wouldn’t say people are angry, but they’re definitely frustrated.

“Everything has been slower than we were told in the beginning. I think unless they say something like it’s on hold, and then people would be angry. But right now, people are more frustrated that it’s winter and nothing can get moving.”

The main concern of town residents, she said, is where the money needed to extend the project may come from.

“If the budget is increased, the town will probably be responsible for a good portion of that too, which means tax increases for us, but that’s how it is with builds,” she said. “Everything is more expensive than you think it will be at first.

“People in the community are trying to do things to raise money too. Our pharmacy held a haunted house this past Halloween to try and raise some funds for it, so we’re all trying to step in and raise some funds for it, too.”

Overall, Deux says that while she believes the improvements to the facility are important, the community can hold off a little while longer.

“Within the next two years, I’d say it’s pretty crucial. There are some things that were on the list, but they held off because of the new facility coming. Hopefully the delays won’t be too long and we can keep going.”

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found. And if we need to come up with more, we’ll go to our municipal government and have them come up with a little more. I’ve talked to them already, so that won’t be a huge issue.”

Geiger and fellow board members have been working on the development of this project since its inception 15 years ago.

“When we started off, we were talking about making it $2 million, and it just kept growing and growing,” he said. “Now we got to where we are today, and there are going to be delays with a project this big.

“Our facilities here are not in good shape, but they’re not in terrible shape either. They just need some things. We’re planning our future, so we don’t want to get into a situation that Maple Creek had, where their new facility was put off until it was condemned.”

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10

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Keystone cancellation could have consequences for Saskatchewan

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

A

fter the announcement from U.S. President Barack Obama on the cancellation of the Keystone XL Pipeline, Saskatchewan reacted.

A project seven years in the making, the Keystone project was designed to send oil from Saskatchewan and Alberta to Texas.

The cancellation was met with anger and disappointment from around the province.

“We’re very disappointed to learn that the pipeline has been officially cancelled by President Obama,” Shaunavon Mayor Sharon Dickie said. “The project itself would have created a lot of growth and stimuli for the region, and in turn jobs.”

We’ve been waiting for seven years, and the project has been put on and off in those seven years, so I guess it’s come to a final conclusion now.”

Dickie says that while she knows the project is over for the time being, she has hope that some form of it may emerge in the future.

“I hope that when the Obama government changes in the US, and a new candidate is elected either for the Republican or Democrats, they may reconsider it,” she said. “But I’m not sure Canada is prepared to wait for them to make their decision.”

And if that falls through, Dickie says that there will be a demand for Canadian oil in some form or another.

“Overall, I’m really hoping that

this will encourage the development of the Energy East Pipeline Project that plans are currently in place for,” she said.

“Hopefully that will see some major changes… it’s not like no one wants western Canadian oil.

“It would have made getting our oil out of Canada easier.

Since that’s not going to happen, let’s keep our oil in Canada using the Canadian east-west connection.”

Dickie believes that although the cancellation is a disappointment, it won’t affect the supply and demand for oil in the southwest.

“I don’t think that this cancellation will have any affect on the pipeline project as it is now, it won’t impact the industry here in Shaunavon, it won’t have any affect on the production of oil in the area,” she said.

“It would have created jobs with the pipeline expansion, but as for current production, no, nothing will change.

“I believe the decision was completely a politically charged decision heavily influenced by environmentalists. The whole project should not have been delayed right from the onset.”

While she’s not worried about the decision affecting supply and demand for oil in her town, Dickie says that she worries the decision will see a negative impact on the overall relations between the countries.

“The conclusion to this, the decision that Obama made doesn’t come as a surprise to us, but we are greatly disappointed,

and I believe it will affect the Canadian-American relationship,” she said.

“This will impact the way Canada feels about the States. We’ve always thought of our closest neighbours as being our friends, and working with us, and I think this kind of situation will make us feel otherwise.”

Premier Brad Wall echoed Dickie’s sentiments, commenting on his Facebook page about the decision.

“Today’s announcement is very disappointing, not only for our energy sector but also for the signal it sends about Canada-US relations,” the post read. “Given the facts of the project as canvassed by the US State Department, this decision is more about US domestic politics than it is about good environmental policy.”

Wall also wrote that the decision would affect Canada-US relations negatively.

“The US State Department even agrees that greenhouse gas emissions from rail are much higher than emissions from pipeline. Yet on Keystone XL, the US administration chose to put political interests ahead of the economic and environmental benefits that KXL would provide, and ahead of its relationship with its most important trading partner, Canada.”

The proposed Energy East pipeline is still in planning stages. TransCanada hopes to see the project completed within five years.

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

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Saskatchewan government selling farmland at a discount

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

A

griculture Minister Lyle Stewart is selling off close to 25 per cent of a million hectares of farmland owned by the Crown.

The intent is to have those who currently lease to consider owner the land before the discount prices go up after March 2016.

The land, which will see steep rent increases as time goes on, is being discounted by 15 per cent until March 31, then 10 per cent from April 1 until December 31.

After that, five per cent will be the discount in 2017.

The government expects 242,000 hectares to be sold, while a no-nonsense rent increase could strong-arm farmers into thee deals.

“The discount is price is the carrot, and us raising rents is a little stick,” said Stewart of a plan that would raise rents 15 per cent in 2016 and 15 per cent more in 2017.

“This is the time the farmers need to purchase this land. We are committed to selling it off.”

This program has been around a long time, and Minister Stewart just calls this the next phase in the project.

“This isn’t anything new. The land is either being cultivated or has been in the past. There’s no virgin prairie land. We campaigned in 2007 about putting land in the hands of farmers,” said Stewart.

“We ran the program from midway through 2008 to

the end of 2014. We sold nearly half of what we had and now we’re looking at our last discount program. We’re committed to selling it all.”

He said last time went smoothly for the government.

“A lot of the land was bought from farmers a while ago, but the view was farmland is better owned by the farmer than anyone else. This was a vast majority view.

So we decided to begin selling it back and give control back to farmers,” he said.

He said these discounts make it easier for farmers to borrow the money to purchase.

“The cheaper this is, the easier it is to pay for. The focus is on those leasing the land being able to purchase, and after eight years of good agricultural returns, it’s a good time,” he said.

“Interest rates are low, commodity rates are strong and lenders see agriculture as a good investment. It’s time to be purchasing, and coupling that with a discount and the rent being raised, it makes sense.”

He said this move to get rid of the rest of Crownowned land at this time has nothing to do with dropping oil prices.

“We had the program when things were good. We had it when there were no problems. We promised this before the election. We are doing it again one last time, and we hope producers take a look at moving on this while the discounts are highest.”

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11

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Community centre initiative opens its doors

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

S

Nathan Wiebe poses at the counter of The Center Perk, located at The Center youth centre in Swift Current. Photo by Beth Jarrell

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tarbucks, get ready, because the Swift Current Community Youth Initiative (SCCYI) is now giving you some competition.

The Center, the meeting place for the SCCYI, is a community centre for youth aged 12 to 18. The organization recently announced the official opening of the Center Perk, a coffee shop run by the youth of the shelter.

“The idea behind it is really simple, we had a lot of kids come in who wanted to bring in coffee or other food, but we don’t allow outside food or drinks,” Nathan Wiebe, spokesperson for the SCCYI. Additionally, Wiebe hopes the new initiative will provide some on the job training for youth about to enter the workforce.

“The coffee shop is designed to both create a new cool aspect to the centre, but also give to kids who haven’t had the opportunity to have a job,” he said. “It’s a stepping stone to what their employment future might look like.

“They don’t necessarily have to go back into the service industry, but it’s an opportunity for them to build confidence, get experience on their resume, and work alongside a lady who has worked in restaurants and can teach them.”

The centre has been in operation for five years, running programs throughout the week for youth to have a safe space to gather.

“We’re kind of a drop-in shelter for youth,” he said. “We have programs Monday to Friday that include homework help, free meals, guitar lessons… Anything we think kids are going to enjoy.”

During the week when not used, the facility is rented out free of charge to various businesses and groups around Swift Current.

Additionally the initiative runs programs on the evenings of weekends to give the older children a place to hang out and have fun in a safe environment.

“Weekends we always have different events going on, something that the kids can do and have fun with

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and do some good things,” he said.

“This weekend we have an Operation Christmas Child box packing party.

A lot of these kids don’t have the extra income to do something like this, so we wanted to give them the experience.

“Everything is kind of a new experiment in here sometimes.”

The coffee shop, he hopes, will be one of those new experiments with positive results.

“We did online barista training with the kids, so they’re kind of learning on the fly, but at the same time, they have the opportunity to do something different,” he said. “For the three we’ve hired, it’s their first job, so it’s a big deal for them.

“The idea behind it is for them to work six to eight months, and then they can build a resume and find a job. We’re not going to kick them out or anything, but we want them to be productive and find a job so we can get more kids in, help more kids.”

Wiebe says that the even though the kids are buying the products, it is not drawing in any money for the shelter.

“We’ve made the prices lower on purpose, because a lot of the kids can’t afford expensive coffee, so we want them to be able to afford it, and look forward to coming in and enjoying some coffee,” he said.

Overall, Wiebe says he hopes the coffee shop will help the youth of the shelter grow their skills both as workers, and as members of society.

“We did interviews with the three kids before we hired them, and the thing we heard the most was that they were afraid to make mistakes,” he said. “We want them to understand that they’re going to make mistakes, but to have confidence that it won’t define them, and make it a learning moment.

“This is an opportunity within an environment they’re comfortable in to grow as people, to start the process of employment and show them they can hold a job and do good work.”

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12

ART

Beats

THE ADVANCE

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Your guide to arts and culture across Southwest Saskatchewan

Art Gallery of Swift Current welcomes new exhibit

Jeffery J Spalding (L) and Gordan Novak (R) pose with just one of the artworks in the Ghosts and Angels series, open to the public until January 3. Photo by Beth Jarrell

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

U

ntil January 3, Calgary-based artist Jeffery J Spalding’s latest masterpiece Ghosts and Angels will be on display at the Art Gallery of Swift Current.

Spalding, whose works are in galleries such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Canadian Embassy, says his inspiration for the latest gallery comes from artists of the past.

“A lot of my inspiration comes from art history,” he said. “Most people who have been interested in art have studied it their whole lives, and art has been my passion my whole life.

“I’m one of those terrible people who makes it hard for everyone else, because I take all the jobs. I’m an artist, curator, a writer … My whole life is art. I love and admire what art does for me.”

Spalding is the first artist to break ground on the type of format presented in Ghosts and Angels, using off-cast printmaking materials. In the past, he has focused on landscape and abstract art.

“If you’re an artist, you’re supposed to define yourself with a signature style,” he said. “When you think Picasso, you get an image in your mind. What I’ve done is quite unusual, because I end up making things that are different from what I’ve done before.

“The things that give me the most pleasure of life come from the chal-

lenges of art,” he said. “These are very different in regards to standard art. Because I adore art and I adore the thrill and anxiety of the changes that happen in art.”

Spalding says that the process behind the design and creation of the artwork was done in collaboration with master printmaker Gordan Novak, who supplied the materials and was instrumental in creating the artwork.

“Under no circumstances could this have come together without Gordan Novak,” he said. “We’ve done

of abandoned beautiful things that can’t be used.”

Spalding came up with the idea to take these prints unused by print makers and use them for testing the plates on others. Ghosts and Angels is the result of those proofs, over 80 of them layered in some cases, Spalding says.

“I said to him, don’t make any judgement, just do it by chance. Let the art speak for itself. They’re all portions of someone else’s art, which is why it’s a love letter. Even though they’re all related, every one of these

I’m one of those terrible people who makes it hard for everyone else, because I take all the jobs. I’m an artist, curator, a writer …

My whole life is art. I love and admire what art does for me.” any number of projects, but this one is my favourite. We wanted to withdraw my own personal subjectivity with how these looked.”

Novak is the owner of Novak Graphics, and is an internationally renowned printer. He lives in Admiral, where he produces prints for artists around the globe.

“We’ve been making works together for years,” Spalding said. “When a master printmaker works, he guarantees that all prints are identical.

The problem is if there’s the slightest flaw, they can’t use it.

“No print maker will throw them out, though. They can’t bring themselves to. So they have these stacks

is completely different.

“That’s where the name comes from. The ghosts are the remnants of the prints left behind, of things started but never finished. The angels are the fact that somehow or another, the angels of printmaking came in and made it all work out.”

All paintings are named after someone, usually artists, Spalding said. However, he adds that the pieces weren’t made in homage to the individual artists, but more upon completion of the piece, they found who the piece reminded them of.

“You’re forced with these pieces to accept them as they are, and not let conventional wisdom of art get

in the way. You look and eventually accept it as what it is, which is what I had to do.”

Interestingly, as both Novak and Spalding walked in to the Art Gallary of Swift Current for the first time, neither knew how the prints would look in-frame.

“The last time I saw these, they were in my library on my floor,” Novak said. “I can’t believe how it looks here on the walls.

“When they’re not in the frame, they’re still in my studio. The only safe thing is to have them framed so we can’t access them, that’s the only thing that stops us from adding more.”

Both artists were extremely pleased with how their work turned out thanks to the hard work of Director Kim Houghtaling.

“Kim is an incredible caring and sensitive director,” Spalding said.

“He understood the art better than anyone, and I think this is the most handsome exhibition I’ve seen, and I’ve done lots of things.”

All of his decisions as a collaborator have added immense experiential value to it, and as you walk through the things, there’s an actual sense of why he’s put things together. He has managed to make visual sense of this.”

Ghosts and Angels will be appearing at the Art Gallery of Swift Current until January 3. Admission is free at the door.

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13

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Chinook homeschooling numbers too early to see trend

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he numbers are in, and the number of children homeschooled in the Chinook School Division has declined.

At the November 12 Organizational Meeting of the school board, JP Claire, the Superintendent of Schools, reported that 123 of the division’s students are homeschooled. He says that most families opt out for one specific reason.

“The predominate reasons that parents and families tell us is that it’s a faith-based program they’re looking for, so they want to instil their own religious values and norms in their children,” he said. “People also like the flexibility of being able to travel, being able to teach in different locations and maintain their children’s educations.”

Over the five years that Chinook has kept track of the numbers, this year is the lowest so far. Last year 136 families reported having their students homeschooled, 141 the year before that.

“We don’t really have enough data to see a trend out of this,” he said. “I think it’s very difficult to say it’s a trend, but it certainly does fit with some of the depopulation that is occurring in Saskatchewan across the province.”

He says that even though homeschooling numbers are steady, they do see a number of family members who turn back to the public school system.

“It happens on an annual basis that students will re-enter the public school,” he said. “We maintain a very positive relationship with homeschooled families so there isn’t a barrier for them to be able to come back.

“We have a number of homeschool families that access extra-curricular activities or our library access. They may take a class or two at their local school, especially at the high school

level. It might be a shop class or band programming, those types.”

He adds that even though some students enter the public school system, it isn’t a perfect transition.

“Typically it’s a fairly good transition, but there are some social things that affect the transition,” he said. “Sometimes there might be levels of reading ability, but we take students where they are and provide programs for them to catch up.”

The provincial legislation dictates that a homeschooled child must be enrolled in four core areas of their choice. Even still, at the end of their education, the homeschooled students do not receive a high school diploma.

“They don’t get a high school Grade 12 graduation certificate, because they don’t get the 24 credits that are mandatory and required by Saskatchewan learning for graduation,” he said. “However, they do can enter post-secondary as adult students. Sometimes they have entry exams that they write, so some of our homeschooled students have gone to university.”

The province provides a yearly reimbursement of $300 for each homeschooled student.

While there is no Ministry of Education requirement for testing, families submit an evaluation at the end of the year to Claire, who oversees that it aligns with the plan the family has made at the beginning of the year.

“If we feel a family has not met the criteria, we can require a meeting to discuss the assessment and any interventions,” he said. “[We have to be] very careful along faith-based groups.

The legislation allows us to be broad family discretion, and we respect that, although we always expose the values of public education.”

Upcoming Christmas season keeping Salvation Army Food Bank busy

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he Salvation Army Church hall was a busy place as members and parents of the Maple Creek Multiple 4-H Club helped sort donated food items for the start of the Christmas Food & Toy Hamper season.

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The food drive even had ‘Fill a Police Cruiser’ for a day at the local Pioneer Co-op Food Store. Plus, the Peer Group at the Maple Creek Composite School went ‘Trick or Fooding’ on Halloween. Next for the food drive is the local Fire Department’s ‘Candy

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for Food’ event. Although a date is yet to be determined, Maple Creek residents are usually very generous during this event. As well, there is a food collection during the Holiday Train scheduled for December 18.

Christmas Food & Toy Hampers need to be applied for and applications are being accepted every Thursday at the Salvation Army Church from 1 pm to 6 pm on November 19th & 26th, and December 3rd & 10th.

Identification is requested with the applications and the Salvation Food Bank is available to anyone residing in the Southwest. If you, or someone you know is in need of this service, you can contact Captains Ed or Charlotte Dean at 306-662-3871 or email to Ed_Dean@can.salvationarmy.org.

14

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

WE REMEMBER

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

The Gull Lake School held its annual Remembrance Day Service at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 10th. As always, the students put on meaningful ceremony with members of the Gull Lake and Tompkins Legion in attendance. The Gull Lake Legion also handed out certificates to the winners of the poster, poem and essay competition.` Lest we forget. Photos by Kate Winquist

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Sceptre Museum receives big grant

15

Advance File Photo

Christmas Cove to light up Gull Lake Campground

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

I

t’s that time of year again, and Gull Lake is preparing for their annual Christmas Cove, with lights and displays being conceived already.

Registration for the fourth annual event began last week, with five people already signing up. Gull Lake’s Recreation Director Sara Kuntz says there’s a lot of interest this year, and they’ll go fast.

“Basically, individuals, businesses and community groups can buy a site in the campground. They can decorate to their hearts’ content and it gets lit up December 1. We light it every night until the end of December,” she said.

“The spots really are going fast, so we are telling people to come book and get a spot.”

The 33-spot campground usually has between 15 and 20 participants, and Kuntz is always seeing growth and creativity blooming.

“People have a chance to look and see where they want to set up. It’s really just a whole lot of fun,” said Kuntz.

“This is our fourth year. This all just started because we were chatting about

ways to increase Christmas spirit in the town.

“We talked about doing this at the park, but the campground was suggested. It’s worked out very well so far.”

She said the support for the event is always big in town.

“People put in their decorations and really get into it. But we also have so many vehicles go through and look at it. People really love it.”

The money raised from the $20 registrations goes to the Tourism Committee for the power costs of the event, which is a great community function.

“Aside from showing support, it’s a nice way in winter when people want to hibernate to get them out and build Christmas cheer,” she said.

“This is just awesome. Everyone is so creative and it’s cool to see the different ways of Christmas expression.”

Each team is responsible for the planning, funding and setting up of the displays, as well as the takedown after.

Contact Sara Kuntz at the Rec Office at 306-672-4449 with questions or to book a spot. You can also email gl.recdirector@ sasktel.net.

BY B E T H JA R R E L L

beth@gulllakeadvance.com

S

ceptre’s Great Sandhills Historical Society has received an extremely important $5,000 grant from the FCC. The grant, a part of FCC’s plans to give out one million dollars to help Saskatchewan communities, has made a huge difference in the museum’s upkeep costs. Chairperson of the museum board, MaryAnn Peters, says the grant money has already been put to great use.

“The money we have received from FCC will go towards paying off our new roof, which we just had installed this past year,” she said. “Although there won’t be any funds left over from the grant, it was a huge expense for us, but one that was absolutely necessary.”

The museum has been up and running since 1987. Before its current use, it served as a schoolhouse for the area.

“It’s an 11-room museum, and each room depicts one of the businesses that was in Sceptre,” she said. “We also have wildlife exhibits and information about the Sandhills for anyone passing through on their way.

“We also have an early 1900’s barn and house we’re in the process of refurbishing to add to our collection. We think it’s important to restore it for the people who used to live here, or the families that have people from here.”

Peters adds that the museum is in the process of gathering newspaper

archives and other documents so individuals who have family members living in the area can trace their history.

She says the museum is in a critical location along the way for tourists visiting the Great Sandhills, which is nearly right outside their door.

“We’re open from May 15 to all September long, and we have quite a good tourist base going through here thanks to the Great Sandhills. This past year we had over 1,800 people through, and another 800 asking for directions and information.”

Peters adds that fundraising for the museum is a struggle every year. She estimates that half of their yearly operating budget comes from fundraising within the community.

“We are a volunteer group, and we do get some financial assistance from Saskatchewan Culture through Saskatchewan Lotteries, but the rest we have to fundraise to keep the facility running,” she said. “Anything above that, though, needs to come from fundraising.

“There is always something that needs to be fixed, so any of the expenses that run and maintain the facility. It’s really a terrific facility.”

Overall, Peters says that although the museum upkeep has its challenges, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It’s a lot of work, and there are only four of us doing the work, keeping it running. We’re trying to recruit some more so we can keep the place running.”

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Young hockey hopefuls skate around the rink in Frontier during a day of remembrance for Blaine Sanford. His family and community are planning to use the funds raised for a memorial playground in the young boy’s honour.

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17

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18

THE ADVANCE

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Gull Lake boxer wins first bout

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

K

eesyn and Kyan Swan have been training for months under Grasslands Boxing Club owner Mike Kucik, and Keesyn’s work paid off with a win on November 7 in Leader.

After three rounds in the ring, 11-year-old Swan won with 26 scoring blows. The Gull Lake boy and his older brother have been hard at work training their bodies for the sport they love. Kucik was impressed by Keesyn’s performance and his drive.

“He’s a young kid. He’s pretty young to be boxing, but it’s always a good thing to start young if you have the opportunity,” said Kucik.

“Their parents have been bringing the boys down for a while They played hockey before, but have since gotten really into boxing. They’ve been coming a couple times a week.”

Kucik has been impressed by the dedication shown by the Swan boys.

“It’s been really good. Boxing is a tough sport and there are no teammates to pick you up. This is individual, and you need to be strong and disciplined,” he said.

“Both of these boys have improved so much since they came to me. Keesyn is a small guy, and they came last night to work out and he was just coming off that high from his win. He works hard. He listens well. The boys do what they need to.”

Kucik says Kyan and Keesyn are both close to 79 pounds, but have different boxing styles and body types.

“Kyan is very fast and athletic.

He should have some bouts coming up this year. It’s hard to find opposition for these guys sometimes,” he said.

“I know a coach in Medicine Hat, and I called him and the Leader club. They had a fella who could fight in this class range, and we decided to go ahead with this fight for Keesyn.”

He said Keesyn has to be aggressive because of his height.

“He’s always going to be shorter, so he must have that drive.

He has to get in there and fight.

That’s what he’s done,” said Kucik.

“I saw him run out of fuel at the end of each round, but that’s

natural for a young person. The last few seconds, the tank goes empty. But we can fix that with conditioning work.”

He said the win has really helped the young fighter.

“He’s just on cloud nine. It was a close match in Leader, but he really put it all out there,” said Kucik.

“He just needs to keep working. I’ve given both boys instructions as to what to do at home and they have stuff set up. There will be bouts upcoming for both boys.”

Their father, Stace Swan, says the success has a whole lot to do with their coach.

“This is somewhat of an isolated sport and there are few clubs around, but Mike had an amazing reputation,” he said.

“Both boys played hockey, and I heard of Mike. He came highly recommended, and his passion for this is amazing and inspiring.”

He had a meeting with Kucik, who explained to the boys what was required. They began boxing in January, according to their father. In fall, they made the conscious decision to commit fully.

“That’s the path they chose.

For what the boys get out of it, the travel from Gull Lake to Ponteix is worth it. We have punching bags up in the welding shop, and they skip rope like crazy,” he said.

“They work at it all the time, and the boys are really passionate and work hard. I don’t need to make them do things.”

He said seeing his son do so well in that ring was amazing.

“I know how hard he worked.

We had a talk, and I said win-losedraw, I would be proud regardless. He put his best effort forth, and after that win, his resolve has just intensified,” said Swan.

He looks forward to seeing his older boy get int he ring soon as well.

“Kyan has been boxing right alongside his brother, and there’s just no one to fight him right now. But for now the boys are focused on pushing themselves and training,” he said.

“They’re doing something they love and they’re working hard at it. You can’t ask for much more than that.”

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19

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Private MRIs could mean longer PIANOS wait times, great inequalities

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beth@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he Saskatchewan government has now passed a law that may change the face of medicine in Saskatchewan forever.

The new legislation will now allow individuals to pay for private MRIs, and thereby bypassing the wait list. University of Saskatchewan professor Dr. Sally Mahood says there will be hidden consequences to this development by creating a system of inequality.

“We’re basically allowing people to jump to the front of the line based on having money, not based on whether they need an MRI urgently,” she said. “You could be very ill, and miss an opportunity to get an MRI because someone who has lots of money has aches and pains.

“We have a system in place whereby if I, or any other doctor in this province, orders an MRI on a patient who needs one, we say if it’s urgent, or if it can wait a couple weeks or a couple months.

That system allows the people who need it more urgently to get to the front of the line.”

Dr. Mahood adds that even the act of paying for an MRI can have a chain effect on how the patient is handled throughout the rest of the system.

“It means accessing high-tech health care based on the money in your pocket,” she said. “Not only that, but if you have private investigation done, it means quicker access based on that result.

“Not only do you get people lining up for MRIs because they can buy it, but also means faster surgeries for those people if something is found. It means queue jumping all the way down the line.”

There are other consequences

to the new system besides creating inequality, however.

“It’s pretty clear from the CIHI (Canadian Institute of Health Information) that the provinces that have privatized MRI have longer wait lists in the public system than provinces that don’t,” she said.

“That’s perhaps the most important notion here. I think the average patient thinks that if there are private MRIs, it will shorten the wait list for the rest of them. But it actually doesn’t, because it takes resources from the public system.”

She points to a province that has long-since adopted the private pay system, Alberta, for an example of what changes the private pay system has introduced.

“The pattern is the same in Alberta no matter what system we’re talking about,” she said.

“The more you allow privatized, the less resources are available for the public system. There are only so many doctors, so many machines, so many operating rooms.

“If you have X number of radiologists and techs, their time and energy that is spent fulfilling the patients who can pay to get on to of that list are no longer available for people in the public system.”

Dr. Mahood believes that the current system in place for deciding who gets an MRI should not be changed drastically, but instead efforts to change the system should be placed elsewhere.

“We know that the biggest determinants to health are social, like having a decent job, decadent housing, food security… these are the things that make for good health, not the number of MRIs we have.

“I think we should be placing money towards the social determinants, like better public hous-

ing, better minimum income, helping people who substance abuse…these are the things that make a real difference with how we live and how long we live. Not a quick MRI for your back pain,” she said.

“It’s catering to people’s fears that if they were truly sick, they could spend their life savings buying one.”

Dr. Mahood says her greatest concern is the potential for fear mongering on the part of the provincial government.

“It’s a political move on the part of the government, to try and appear to be responding to people’s anxieties about long wait lists,” she said. “It’s catering to people’s fears that if they were truly sick, they could spend their life savings buying one. “ I have patients who come to me who believe they need an MRI for some reason, but they don’t fully comprehend that an MRI might not be the best test in the whole system.”

Overall, Dr. Mahood believes that while she welcomes new changes for the better of her patients to the existing system, the government should examine what patients in Saskatchewan really want.

“I don’t think we need a lot more MRIs, maybe a few more MRIs, but if you talk to someone who has waited months for one because of back pain, they will say that we should be expanding our resources based on public need, not the private system as a commodity,” she said.

“Let’s do it based on who needs it medically. Not who can pay.”

Charlie’s Christmas Concert needs a new organizer

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

D

15113DC0

eb Giverhaug has dedicated the last five years to Charlie’s Christmas Concert in Eastend, because the community celebration needed a leader.

But now, she’s hoping someone else can step up and fill the shoes the late Charlie Goulet handed to her half a decade ago.

“This first started with Charlie, and it’s been going 28 years. He put it on because he felt the community need to be brought together to have a joyous time and get in the holiday feeling,” she said.

“When he started it, he got everybody involved. From local bands and singers to others with talent in the community, they were all asked to participate yearly.”

Goulet, the previous proprietor of Charlie’s Lunch and town paramedic, was deeply involved in the community and loved putting on the event.

But things changed after the 23rd iteration, as Charlie died shortly after.

“He asked if I’d be the spokesman for that one, as they had never had a female announcer. So I took over, and after Charlie died, everyone kept asking me if I would keep it going,” she said.

“I enjoyed it, and it was something to look forward to.

It wasn’t a burden or hard to do. You put out a note and get on the phone. Very seldom did you get a ‘no.’ People always wanted to perform and kids loved getting exposure.”

But Giverhaug’s time commitment was more than people may realize, as her wedding anniversary falls on December 23, the day the concert has always been held.

“This year is our 30th anniversary, and I just have to

step down. We didn’t do anything for our 25th, and it’s time to take care of the personal life,” she said.

“I am desperately trying to find someone to act as MC, and I can help and give them all the information. I can do background work, but I just need someone to take this on.”

So far, Giverhaug isn’t having any look finding anyone.

“You just need to have the gift of gab, and we here in Eastend as a whole have plenty of it. I would like to step down long-term, as I’m involved in enough committees.

We need to get someone new and fresh,” she said.

“The seniors love this, and businesses love it. We make a point of taking care of children, who are the important part. I would introduce old carols, and give kids background on them. We phone the North Pole and get Santa here. We also have door prizes for kids. This is important for the town.”

She said Charlie never did this for personal glory or gain, and he was adamant this be for the community as a whole.

“He said my first year that this was Eastend’s Annual Community Concert. I had that drummed in my head.

But everyone called it Charlie’s concert. So when I was at the end, I accidentally said “thanks for attending Charlie’s Christmas Concert,” she laughed.

“I got a glare from the front row. But after he died, people still wanted it to be Charlie’s and it’s a tradition. It’s out of respect for him.

“We often forget traditions, but this is something the community has always done. I feel bad I can’t do it, and I’m torn about it. But I’m hoping someone will come in and help.”

If you want to help out or want more information, call Deb at 306-295-3565.

20

THE ADVANCE

Piapot Lions Club host 19th annual gun and hobby show

Advance File Photo

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

megan@gulllakeadvance.com

F

or the past 19 years, the Piapot Lions Club has hosted their gun and hobby show as a fundraiser for their community and area.

Member Harvey Wasilow says the money they raise from events like this goes toward helping people with medical issues cover travel expenses as well as other things.

“We’re taking over the fuel expenses for the handicap bus in Maple Creek,” Wasilow said. Aside from that, money also goes towards maintaining the Legion Hall in Piapot.

The Gun and Hobby Show is a popular event for the club, often hosting more than 700 visitors in a weekend along with around 40 vendors and about 80 tables.

This year’s event is held at the Maple Creek Armouries on Nov 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov 29 from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. ”There’s people from all over, mostly from Saskatchewan but we do have a few from Alberta right up to Calgary and Edmonton,” he said. “But we don’t have the space because a lot of time we could take more people.”

For anyone interested in adding

a new item to their gun collections or just taking a look at what’s out there for equipment and antiques, this is the event for you.

“If you’re from the farm and stuff you’re interested in that kind of stuff and that’s the people that show up, There’s getting to be more city people too, they’re collecting different things and, like I say, there’s other items, it’s not just guns or sporting goods,” he said. “There’s other things that show up that are just unique items.”

Of the 80 tables expected at the show, around 20 are dedicated to antiques and unique items.

“We never know [what’s going to show up], some of these people only go to a few shows a year, there’s some that go to five, six, seven shows a year and their stuff is continually changing,” Wasilow said. “They’re pickers in some cases and when they sell they’re always trying to replenish with something new, not necessarily new, but new merchandise.”

Aside from the antiques are, of course, a wide variety of items for those passionate or interested in guns and sporting goods. Wasilow said aside from guns there’s also equipment, knives, shells, powders

and more.

“We also have the Lions food booth there. We have fresh hamburgers and generally homemade pies, sometimes the guys buy the pies,” Wasilow laughs. “We have free coffee for the weekend, we have sponsors out of Maple Creek that sponsor it so you just have to buy a hamburger and you get all the coffee you want and there’s pop and that.”

Aside from raising funds for their club, Wasilow says the weekend is a real asset to Maple Creek, where some of the club’s members are from.

“This is really a boost to Maple Creek because we get about 40 vendors and the ones that are coming any distance stay there for the weekend, two nights and their meals are there,” he said. “And people who come in, if they’re driving any distance they get fuel and stuff.

Anything you do to bring people into town is a plus for the town.”

Although a lot of the vendors are the same throughout the years, Wasilow says every year they bring something new to the table.

For more information on the event people are encouraged to phone Wasilow at 306-558-4802.

SPIRITUAL GLEANINGS

Multicultural Friendships

BY J OY S A S S E

www.canadianruralchurch.net

S

orry I didn’t make the meeting last night,” my Aboriginal friend confessed. She had come to town and walked into the building where we were meeting, but she couldn’t bring herself to entre the conference room alone.

My heart ached for her feeling of aloneness. I think about her now as we try to form our Multicultural Friendship Group. Our tiny organizational committee has been advertising, planning a program and looking at making our meeting-space comfortable for our next meeting. We need, also, to individually invite those living on the edge of our community to “come with us”.

Scriptures are full of stories of welcoming the “sojourners”. Jesus tells about the unexpected kindness of the Samaritan traveler. He called out to “outsiders”, like the tax collector, to be part of his group of disciples.

a g n i v o Ltribute

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

All devout people remembered that the great King David’s Grandmother was from Moab.

It is important for the traditional members of any society to be inclusive of others if we are to have healthy communities.

In my own experience, the saleswoman in our country market in Korea asked me how much I paid for the potatoes I bought from the vendor a few paces away.

It was so out of character with the usual exchange of greetings that I said “Why do you ask?” She replied “That woman is new here and she may not know you belong in our community!” Tears came to my eyes when I realized the gentle way these folks took care of me. I began to notice those who held eye contact as we passed on the street, who spoke a greeting, who ran to invite me to come and bring my camera because there was something I might appreciate seeing.

When we have people of different ethnic backgrounds in our communities, it is up to all of us to recognize their hesitations and invite them into our lives. We will all be the richer for experience.

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

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Helpful advice, friendly people, super-fast turnaround and quality results: that’s what Winquist Ventures Ltd. brings to the table. Don’t settle for anything less than the perfect funeral card for your loved one – call (306) 672-3373 for an obligation-free chat today.

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FARMLEAD

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

21

A LITTLE BIT WESTERN

Bearish Shocks

What goes around comes around

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

BY TA R A M U L H E R N DAV I D S O N

b.turner@farmlead.com

O

n Tuesday, November 10, 2015, we got the U.S.D.A.’s monthly installment of the world agricultural supply & demand estimates and things came out a lot more bearish than the market was expecting. Going into the report, average market analysis pegged both corn and soybean yields and production higher than the previous October report.

That being said, the U.S.D.A. surprised even the bears by taking average corn yields up by 1.3 to 169.3 bu/ac, barley below last year’s record of 171 bu/ac! As such, total U.S. corn production was pegged at 13.65 Billion bushels, almost 100 million bushels bigger than the trade was expecting, Accordingly, the 2015/16 domestic carryout was increased to 1.76 Billion bushels, but that pales in comparison to global corn inventories rising by almost 13% year-over-year to a record 212 million tonnes (mostly thanks to lower feed use in China). In corn, the question is how much product is the market cruising through and at what pace will this help drive prices higher, should we see a mild winter and drier seeding conditions for Plant 2016 (which is being forecasted right now). Accordingly, Morgan Stanley says that at the current levels, they are bullish corn as they expect the coarse grain to outperform soybeans over the rest of the 2015/16 marketing year. As such, this paints a picture of more corn acres going into the ground this coming spring.

For soybeans, average U.S. soybean yields ticked up by 1.1 bu/ac from October to a record 48.3 bu/ac, meaning total production will touch a record 3.98 Billion bushels (or more than 108 million tonnes!). Thus, it’s no surprise that domestic U.S. soybean end-of-year inventories will grow to 465 million bushels, well above the 436 million bushels the market was anticipating. On a positive note, global ending stocks dropped slightly as international buying remains strong, the only difference being that most of the business is being given to South America.

With C.O.N.A.B. (basically Brazil’s U.S.D.A.), raising production estimates to almost 103 million tonnes, it’s not hard to figure out the math that there’s a lot soybeans out there. Yes, there’s been some slight positive points there has been some bright spots for soybeans in terms of domestic use but more than anything, the main variables to watch are China (are they slowing down their imports or just continuing to source from South America?) and El Nino (will it drive up veggie oil prices for a few months or just briefly?).

On wheat, everyone already knows there’s a large supply out there but with U.S. exports sagging to the lowest levels since the 1971/72 marketing year, it’s no surprise that U.S. ending stocks were pushed up to 911 million bushels, the largest in 6 years. Globally, world ending stocks declined slightly with the Australian crop being cut by 1 million tonnes to 26 million, but that was basically made up by the E.U. crop increasing by 2 million tonnes. All in, with supply more than available across the board, sideways-to-bearish pressure remains on the majority of grains complex with only a surprising demand headline or a weather shock bringing about the potential for a rally in the next 2 months.

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).

lonesomedoveranch@sasktel.net

H

and-me-downs are wonderful. I’m practical, and let’s face it, frugal enough to realize that clothing my children in brand new garb would be expensive, unfulfilling, and in many ways impossible to keep up with. My kids are growing quickly and they are relatively tough on their garments so when another shipment of hand-me-downs shows up on my doorstep, I welcome them with open arms. And I do what any mom would do – I drag the boxes down to my basement and add them to the dozens of other containers already in there.

I have sorted and categorized clothing for two different genders ranging in ages of zero to ten years old and I’m not even certain how it all happened. I swear.

It started out innocently enough when we had our twins. I would be in town, running errands, and someone would give me a couple (or twenty) bags of boys’ hand-me-downs. “How generous!” I thought, “These will definitely come in handy.” And they did. Before long, I had enough tubs of clothes to outfit our two boys up to and including age five, for any and all weather they could encounter. I had enough clothes on hand that I wouldn’t have to do laundry for at least six weeks if I was brave enough to leave it that long. (I wasn’t).

I kept my stash of boys’ duds in case another kid came along. We did find another kid in the cabbage patch, only this one was a girl child which meant the boxes of clothes I already had stacked to the ceiling were rather irrelevant. Word soon got out that we had a little girl, however, and more boxes, tubs and bags of tiny pink clothes started arriving from rural municipalities near and far. I’d find items sitting in my unlocked vehicle in town or I would come home to a porch full of

Rural Roots

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

lcfroese@sasktel.net

L

ooking around the office today, I suddenly realized that I have one of the best co-workers known to mankind.

No, she doesn’t bring me coffee and she never surprises the staff with donuts or cookies. No, she doesn’t praise me for my interesting sleepwear-inspired office clothing. No, she doesn’t share much about her life.

But, she is a wonderful listener. And, she is particularly adept at helping me prevent work-related injuries that arise from sitting at the computer too long.

If I’ve had a particularly long stretch at my desk (which happens four to five times daily), she’ll come over and give me a nudge, reminding me that it’s time for a little stretch. Instead of eating too much at coffee time, she always insists that we walk around the block a time or two to get our metabolisms in gear. And if ever I encounter a work-related problem that seems insurmountable, she always reminds me that ‘it’s just work’ and really there are more important things in life, like family, friends … and pets.

Yes, my co-worker is a dog. Now you might think that a dog can’t offer much in terms of advice, direction and opinions. And, you’d certainly be right about that.

But looking down at the tattered old quilt on my office floor and the silky Golden Retriever that is curled up on it, I realize that it’s not about

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clothes. In an effort to get clothes out of their house and into mine, donors would even use travelling teenagers to courier clothing to me. What teenager wouldn’t want to transport frilly pink baby clothes to my ranch when they happened to be in the area?

There are a few side effects of hand-me-downs, including the occasional sentimental parent who stops to reminisce about when their own child could still fit in whichever item my child was busy wearing out. I nod sympathetically, because I’m starting to understand.

There is also a slight risk that my kid will be unintentionally incorporated into the original clothing wearer’s family at a rodeo or branding, but those things happen.

Our guest room became the command centre for my accidental collection of gently used kids’ clothes.

We are always just one unexpected guest or a new haul of hand-me-downs away from chaos, but we still encourage both. With my shipping and receiving policy, as quickly as the bags come in, something of equal space must go out. So beware, if you leave your vehicle unattended or I happen to be driving by, you too may find a bag (or twenty) of hand-me-downs that you can contend with.

That’s the beauty of hand-me-downs… My kids can pass their outgrown items on to other kids to breathe new life into old clothes. These jeans and shirts and jackets are just waiting for a fresh set of grass stains, a different scuff on the boot, a new adventure. Some jeans have holes already pre-worn in the knees, some of the boots are even pre-caked with mud and a bit of manure, but all clothes have been worn with love. Then when I see your kid making a mud pie, or helping with chores, or just being a kid, I’ll take a moment to wistfully tell you “I remember when my kids could still fit in those. It feels like it was yesterday.” Because, it really does.

690

advice, direction or opinions. Sometimes silence is enough.

Upon doing some research, I learned that pets can provide a whole host of benefits that I hadn’t even thought about.

At healthline.com they say that studies have shown that physical contact with a pet can lower high blood pressure and improve survival rates for heart attack victims. The American Humane Association claims that dogs at work can improve staff morale and worker satisfaction. Job performance has also been known to increase because employees are happier. And, dogs can serve as a crime deterrent. The U.S. Humane Society says having dogs at work encourages employees to work longer hours and less absenteeism is reported in offices that allow pets.

Well, who knew?

Here I thought that having my dear dog by my side was simply a good source of support and an excellent reminder that I do have to leave my desk during the course of the day or my body will permanently stay in the shape of an office chair.

But, what my dear Sassy gives me is better health, a happier disposition, more safety and the ability to work longer hours.

Never mind that she doesn’t bring donuts to work, or can’t tell jokes around the water cooler.

I’m just glad she’s here.

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

22

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Good ideas are worth sharing.

Do you have an interesting, thought-provoking or unique idea for a story or feature article? If so, then we’d love to hear from you!

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

www.gulllakeadvance.com

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 COMING EVENTS Piapot Lions 19th annual GUN AND HOBBY SHOW with antique tables upstairs, Sat., Nov. 28, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sun., Nov. 29, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at the Maple Creek Armories. Admission $4. Lions food booth.

Info call 306-558-4802.

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FOR RENT Large 1 bedroom house, 2 bedroom house and 3 bedroom house for rent in Shaunavon. Non-smoking only. Call 306-691-2665. 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 SERVICES Twisted Wind RV & Mini Storage. Units are 10’x15’ and rent $80/month or $840/year plus GST. Call 297-9382 and ask for Megan. tn

Whitemud Hockey League

NOVEMBER SCHEDULE

November 18, 2015 (Wednesday)

8:00 PM at Shaunavon Rink Complex Frontier Flyers at Shaunavon Badgers 8:00 PM at Maple Creek Rink Complex Consul Rockets at Maple Creek Hawks

November 20, 2015 (Friday)

8:00 PM at Cabri Rink Complex Frontier Flyers at Cabri Bulldogs 8:00 PM at Maple Creek Rink Complex Leader Flyers at Maple Creek Hawks 8:30 PM at Consul Rink Complex Shaunavon Badgers at Consul Rockets

Search “Gull Lake Advance”

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST JOB OPENING

DAVIS MEDICAL CLINIC Eastend, SK Part time, permanent - Starting in January 2016

Successful applicant will have: • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Proficiency with technology • Professionalism, caring and confidentiality Previous experience is not required.

For further information please call me at 306 295 3522 To apply please send your resumé as soon as possible to: Dr. Anne Davis , Box 99 Eastend, Sk S0N 0T0

November 21, 2015 (Saturday) 7:30 PM at Gull Lake Rink Complex 8:00 PM at Consul Rink Complex 8:00 PM at Leader Rink Complex

November 24, 2015 (Tuesday)

Maple Creek Hawks at Gull Lake Greyhounds Cabri Bulldogs at Consul Rockets Shaunavon Badgers at Leader Flyers

Maple Creek Hawks at Gull Lake Greyhounds

8:00 PM at Gull Lake Rink Complex

November 27, 2015 (Friday)

Cabri Bulldogs at Shaunavon Badgers Leader Flyers at Consul Rockets

8:00 PM at Shaunavon Rink Complex 8:30 PM at Consul Rink Complex

November 28, 2015 (Saturday)

8:00 PM at Leader Rink Complex Frontier Flyers at Leader Flyers 8:00 PM at Maple Creek Rink Complex Shaunavon Badgers at Maple Creek Hawks

COWTOWN LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE INC. Tyler Cronkhite, Jim Wilson, Brent Weiss,

Manager 661-8786 Cell: 672-4385 auctioneer 558-4410 auctioneer 558-4401

MAPLE CREEK, SASK.

“100% Community Minded”

306-662-2648 1-800-239-5933 www.cowtownlivestock.com

Gordie Cameron, Rocky Houff, Darvin Mason,

~ ALL CATTLE MUST BE CCIA TAGGED ~ FEEDER FINANCE PROGRAM AVAILABLE

auctioneer/fieldman 622-2234 or 741-7077 (cell) fieldman 403-527-0352 or 403-548-9829 (cell) fieldman 662-3497 or 662-8218 (cell)

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Classifieds

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

AUCTIONS

AUTO PARTS

COMING EVENTS

M E D I C A L TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand 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 workat-home career today!

CANTECH TUBULAR SERVICES LTD. Bay A7983-Edgar Industrial Drive, Red Deer, Alberta. Friday, Nov. 27, 2015, 10 a.m. Turn key business dispersal of power tongs, laydown machines, power cat walks, trucks, trailers, forklifts, shop equipment & office. See www. montgomeryauctions.com or call 1-800-371-6963.

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.

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Elect Ernie Hall and Robert Horne, to the two Sask Pulse Commission board openings this month.

Producers Ernie from Wynyard and Robert from Swift Current will give your pulse growing areas strong farmer representation. Check out their bios on the Pulse website.

Western Commodities Inc. is a merchant company that buys & sells grain.

Bookkeeper/Receptionist Needed This full-time position is to replace a retiring employee.

WW1528 Responsibilities Include: Process AR, AP Most aspects of financial records Invoicing All aspects require a high degree of confidentiality Reconcile bank statements Calculate & prepare payroll Some computer & accounting knowledge necessary On the job training will be provided Ability to work independently as well as part of a team Wages depends on experience.

Start date: Dec. 14, 2015

Send resume to: Western Commodities Inc. Box 957, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 or email to: rob.wct@sasktel.net

23

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

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Crop Producers Alliance supports the election of Leo Howse, Porcupine Plain and Gilbert Ferré, Zenon Park, to the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission.

Pricing and grading transparency of malting barley and the right to save seed are their priorities. They can be trusted to protect farmers’ interests. Please VOTE!!!

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FOR SALE

LAND FOR SALE

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.

FARMLAND WANTED

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Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1400 for details.

HEALTH Do you have a DISABILITY? Physical or mental. We can help you get up to $40,000 back from the Canadian Government.

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STAY AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION. Advertise in the classifieds. swna.com/ classifieds

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Now available to read online (Oh, and it’s free!)

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25

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

The Advance | Sports

Two new teams enter Whitemud fold

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he Whitemud Hockey League squads have two new contenders this year.

Both the Cabri Bulldogs and Maple Creek Hawks are back in action after some time away from play.

“We always had a team out in Cabri.

We had hard luck and had to fold. This year I talked to a few people and we decided to get back out there,” said Bulldogs Manager Jordan Telke.

“We spent time in the summer making phone calls and talking to guys to get a good, competitive team. We were very successful, and we have a good looking group of guys to play hockey.

“Everyone was very receptive and glad to have the team back. This was really missed.”

He said the time away has made him and the team realize the league has gotten stronger, but he’s confident the team can contend.

“We’ve had two games,” Telke said last week. “But we’ll be right in the mix. We’re working hard and I’m enjoying the managing and coaching. I think it will pay off for everyone, and we’ll have a good run,” he said.

“We’re strong in numbers and this team is close-knit. They have chemistry and can play will together.”

The other team joining the Bulldogs, Consul Rockets, Frontier and Leader Flyers, Gull Lake Greyhounds and Shaunavon Badgers will be the Maple Creek Hawks.

Manager John Duncan is pretty ecstatic they were able to put a team together.

“We were disappointed when we had to fold five years ago. A town this size should have a team. We had people who wanted to play, and the time was right to bring it back,” he said.

“We played Shaunavon the other night, and I was so happy with the crowd. It was one of the best I’ve ten in the rink. It’s important and it gives this town something to do.”

He said the team is just so enthusiastic

The Gull Lake Greyhounds are riding high after their Provincial championship run last year. Photo by Kate Winquist

right now.

“We’re getting 15 or 16 guys out to practice, and we used to get four or five back when. Some seem quite committed,” he said.

“We need to get the puck in the net more, but that will certainly improve.”

Gull Lake Greyhounds coach Doug Logan is still reeling from their whirlwind year and provincial championship last year.

“We were so happy, and this year we’re a bit more relaxed as to what’s expected.

We’ve done it now. But there are enough guys this year who didn’t win that we’re competing hard. This team works hard regardless,” he said.

“We’ve got two lines that are the same as last year, but two need to work on gelling and figuring things out. But that takes time, and we’re not done juggling those two lines.”

Logan is happy to have two more teams to compete against, and is impressed so far.

“Cabri will be good. They have a big

enough draw and can pull in players. The first game against them was impressive,” he said.

Gull Lake beat Cabri in the opener 7-6 in overtime, a hard-fought match.

“We weren’t our best in the first period, and we were missing some players.

They have some skill level,” said Logan.

“But we will be a great competing team again. I’m quite impressed and it’s nice to see a new team come out, hit hard and work. These two will be great additions.”

Greyhound coach, Doug Logan

The Maple Creek Hawks celebrate a goal against the Leader Flyers on Friday night. Photo by Shelley Drever

The Frontier Raiders hosted SHSAA 1A girls conference championships on Nov 7. The Raiders were 2-0 in their pool with wins over Ponteix and Eastend. They defeated Glentworth in the semi final 2-1. The exciting final featured Mankota vs Frontier with the Raiders winning 2-1 (25-12, 16-25, 27-25). The Raiders will now advance to the regionals on Nov. 14. Back row L to R: Shyla Purpora, assistant coach Jaime Nelson, Sydney Onerheim, Amanda Mitchell, Miah Gates, Tadjana Delacruz, coach Tanya Turner. Middle row L to R: Avery Evenson, Jyllian Kaliciak, Patricia Pineda, Sarah Moule. Front row L to R: Heather Caswell, Madison Bertram and Steffany Monreal.

26

THE ADVANCE

The Advance | Sports

| YOUR SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

|

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

NOT A SHADOW OF A DOUBT

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Crescent Point is currently seeking to fill the following position:

Located at the old CPS site behind Manny’s Place

Purpose:

Description: 40” x 60” warehouse Office approx. 30” x 20”. There is a front office and a back office.

Movable 5-Liquid Fertilizer bins 4’ cement berm

The Contract Relief Operator will be responsible to maintain the field to high Health Safety & Environment standards; monitor and test oil/gas wells as per Crescent Point/Regulatory guidelines and optimize the production rates. The Contract Relief Operator may be required to operate any combination of oil and gas wells or battery/gas compression facilities.

The candidate should reside in the Shaunavon/Gull Lake area due to the location of the role and frequent traveling that is required.

For Removal from Site

Conditions: • Minimum of 10% deposit required with offer • Highest or any offer not necessarily accepted. CPS reserves the right to evaluate and select offers based on its own internal criteria and to accept or reject any offer submitted in its sole and absolute discretion.

• Offers must be received in writing on or before November 23, 2015 • Removal of the equipment is the successful bidder’s responsibility. The equipment must be removed from the site by December 13, 2015. Please make arrangements with Carolyn Illerbrun @ 306-297-4121.

• The successful bidder will be required to obtain any applicable moving permits from the municipal.

• The successful bidder will be required to complete and execute an invoice for the purchase and sale of the asset(s) in CPS’s standard form.

PLEASE SUBMIT OFFERS TO: CPS-CANADA Box 1570 Shaunavon, Saskatchewan S0N 2M0 Attention: Carolyn Illerbrun To arrange an inspection of the above items, please contact Carolyn Illerbrun @ 306-297-4121

Job Title: Location: Reports to:

Contract Relief Operator (level to be determined) SW Saskatchewan – Shaunavon/ Gull Lake Production Foreman

Main Responsibilities & Activities: • Responsible for the safe and effective operation of all plant and field facilities • Monitor well performance, fluid levels, production equipment (speed/efficiency etc) • Well testing, BS&W determination, area proration status • Maintain company vehicles / tools / safety equipment to high standards • Demonstrate complete working knowledge of all facilities • Make quick and accurate assessments by taking corrective actions to safely control and minimize losses • Deal effectively with landowners, suppliers, contractors and co-workers • Accept on-call duty and respond to call-outs as required • Supervise contract and maintenance crews

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: • Grade 12 diploma is required • 4th Class Power Engineering and/or GPO certification are assets • Valid Class 5 Driver’s License • Must have valid proof of incorporation, insurance and WCB letter of good standing • Must be acceptable to ever-changing conditions • Strong communication, organizational and team skills complemented with a strong work ethic • Must be accepting and receptive to new ideas • Safety training current and up to date including: First Aid/CPR, H2S Alive TDG/WHMIS, Fire Extinguisher Training, Ground Disturbance (level II), and Defensive Driving

Interested individuals should forward resume to: http://www.crescentpointenergy.com/careers

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27

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2015

Shaunavon team wins provincials

BY J O R DA N PA R K E R

editor@gulllakeadvance.com

T

he Shaunavon Shadows burst through a big white banner and onto the muddy Shadows Football Field, their hooting and hollering only rivalled by that of their fans in the stands.

They didn’t know at the time, but their tenacity would lead them to a 42-28 Provincial 9-Man 2A Football Championship over the Delisle Rebels.

Fireworks and emergency truck sirens erupted into the air around the field as this unbeaten Shaunavon team pumped themselves up for the ultimate test: their rough, tough and formidable opponents.

Delisle, who wore a 4-2-1 record as they kicked off to the Shadows, came out strong in the first quarter.

An early touchdown by Rebels running back Sam Michnik would push them ahead 6-0, with the team kicking in the extra point.

The Shadows would catch some hard luck during the next push, as wide receiver Nixen Voll missed out on two prime catches by just inches.

A punt to Reid Dubkowski would lead to an eventual second touchdown by Michnik. The kick by Jordan Valcamp was good.

A punt by the Rebels would lead to a 46 yard return from the Shadows, who began to turn momentum to their end again, before the 1st quarter ended at a 14-0 score for the Rebels.

However, senior quarterback Ryan Selvig would push through and nab a touchdown early in the second quarter to gain some momentum, with Jordan Voll picking up the extra point.

A hard-fought drive after a punt by the frustrated Rebels would soon lead to a touchdown by Brock Larson, and an extra point by Voll.

The Rebels would respond quick;y with a touchdown

by Evan Morris, and an extra point kick by Valcamp.

The Shadows caught more bad luck, and quarterback Selvig found himself sacked twice in a row, although the second one ended in a 15 yard penalty against the Rebels’ Jake Middleton.

However, with a number of strong completions, all it took was a slide-in touchdown from Selvig and the extra point from Voll to tie it up 21-21 by the half.

The Rebels would come out strong in the second half with a touchdown by Jordan Valcamp and the extra point.

The Shadows would fire back immediately as Jordan Voll would run 85 yards for a touchdown off a kick

Photos by Beth Jarrell

return, but the Rebels would get lucky as the loss of the extra point would keep the Shadows down by one.

Voll would score another one for the Shadows, with the point counting this time. The crowd erupted into a frenzy as the Shadows took the lead for the first time in the game.

Voll would then score again, with a 2-point convert by Brock Larson.

The Shadows began to yell from the sidelines as the seconds ticked down, and picked up a fumble on their way to a hard-fought 42-28 victory in the end.

Coach Garret Glasrud, freshly soaking wet from a traditional Gatorade container bath, was all smiles at the end of the tilt.

“I’m still getting used to this right now,” said the beaming head coach.

“The big thing we talked about at half-time was getting rid of nerves. They’d never been in a championship game like this before. We also talked conditioning. This is the most dedicated group we had, and we knew we could keep the throttle down in and second half, and we did.”

The team going unbeaten through the entire season

was new territory.

“You know, it’s totally foreign. I’m not familiar yet. It feels great. Even as a player myself, I never reached the championship game. This is unreal,” he said.

He praised Delisle’s play, and felt they were worthy adversaries.

“They’re strong, they play hard and have tenacity. They have some mass, play hard and that was a good game,” he said. “I always like a nail biter so long as I come out on top.”

He wanted to thank people who helped with the football program.

“I’d like to thank parents and fans for support, and the sponsors who helped us out with this year,” he said.

Glasrud will be back to coach next year, but wasn’t quite ready to talk next season yet.

“We’ll see when it gets here. Right now I’m living the moment,” he said.

With that, Glasrud ran into the giant crowd of white and blue, ready to celebrate the literally perfect record of a season the Shadows football team earned.

ROSTER #1 #4 #6 #8 #9 #10 #11 #15 #18 #20 #24 #26 #29 #30 #44 #52 #54 #58

Kyle Dordu Ryan Selvig Corbin Nicolson Tanner Entem Reese Erickson Nathan Galey Matt Hansen Nixen Voll Seth Lingenfelter Blaze Larson Lane Pritchard Jordan Voll Brock Larson Josh Peterson Ryker Larson Jared Stevenson Isaac Peterson Scott New

#66 #68 #76 #78 #81 #82 #83 #84 #88 #91

Ryan Krause Logan Campbell Carter Greenslade Ty Schemerhorn Austin Tremere Cayden Nicolson Cole Cadieux Brock Oberle Lane Richardson Brady Goulet

Grade 8’s Matt Fuller Janson Davidson Kaden Floberg Arianna Richardson Jake New

COACHES Garret Glasrud - Head Coach Defensive Coordinator, LB’s Justin Illerbrun - Offensive Coordinator, QB’s Aaron Audette - Offensive Assistant, RB’s, WR’s Mat Irvine - O-Line, D-Line Jordi Thomas - Special Teams Coordinator, DB’s Jesse Voll - Strength and Conditioning Rachelle Dordu - Manager

28

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