Marketplace 2022-12-23

Staff Photo by Tyson Off

Top Terrier play maker second in league scoring

The Yorkton Junior Terriers are celebrating 50 years in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League this season.

To mark the milestone Yorkton This Week is digging into its archives and pulling out a random Terrier-related article from the past five decades of reporting on the team, and will be running one each week, just as it originally appeared.

This feature will appear weekly over the entire season in the pages of The Marketplace.

Week #14 comes from March 3, 1993

For Tim Slukynsky, being superstitious has its advantages.

The 19-year-old forward with the Terriers has certain rituals he carries out without fail on game day.

The favourite is setting out from his house an hour before he has to get to the rink. He takes the same route every time but it’s a long, circuitous one that takes him 20 minutes, rather than the five it should actually take him.

50 YEARS

Looking back at the Yorkton Terriers

He isn’t sure if it helps but it certainly doesn’t hurt. Ranked second in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League for points, Slukynsky has 88 points in 58 games, including 46 goals and 42 assists.

He has a hard time explaining why the goals have been coming to him this year and attributes a lot of it to good fortune.

“I think it seems to be a lot of rebounds. I will be waiting around the net and maybe I will pass it to a defenceman. And they will shoot it on net and the rebound will come out and I will be right there. I think it’s getting lucky and being in the right place at the right time.”

Pretty modest for a player who seems to have a natural instinct for where the puck is and

where it is going to go.

“When everything is going good, you don’t really think about it but when you stop (scoring), you change everything. You change the way you tie your skates and tape your stick. I’m very superstitious.”

To Terriers coach and manager Drew Famulak, Slukynsky is just a good hockey player.

“He is a skill guy,” Famulak says. “He is goal scorer and a play maker. It is a split thing.”

But Slukynsky’s success comes from his knack for the game which is augmented by a couple of things.

“One, when he has the puck on his stick, he knows what he is doing, he is always thinking ahead,” Famulak says. “Two, he plays with wingers who give him a lot of

ice. He can really wheel the puck when he wants to.”

He has also come a long way as a defensive player.

“When I came here (this year), Timmy was very good offensively and very average defensively … You can ask Timmy. We had a chat the other day. He has learned and committed himself to

defence and now he is creating more plays because of it.

“He is as solid twoway player.”

Slukynsky came to the Terriers last year after trying out for the Brandon Wheat Kings of the Western Hockey League, right out of high school two years ago. Having heard he would be receiving limited ice

time, Slukynsky opted to come to Yorkton to play for the Terriers.

Then at the beginning of this year, he was invited to try out for the Medicine Hat Tigers, of the WHL, on the invitation of part Terriers and current Tigers coach Dennis Polonich.

Although he went to the camp, Slukynsky had his reservations.

“It’s tough being a 19-year-old rookie in that league. It is a younger player’s game. For the older players who are 19 or 20 in that league, if you haven’t been drafted to pro-camp, then it seems like you are washed up, almost. It’s tough to fit in when you’re 19.”

Deciding to come back to Yorkton again, Slukynsky opted to play one more year in the SJHL before trying for a university scholarship – a scholarship he has been guaranteed by the University of North Dakota.

However, there is a catch. Because he played in one WHL game, two years ago, he will have to spend next year on the bench. (American universities consider WHL a pro league.)

In some ways, Slukynsky regrets his brief time in the WHL but says in the long run it could work to his advantage.

“In a way I do (regret it), but my first year of university is going to be tough. I haven’t been in school for two years, so if I’m not playing I don’t have to worry about fighting for a spot on the roster. Just practice, concentrate on school and the I still have three more years.”

Growing up in Portage la Prairie, Man., he idolized high scoring forwards Wayne Gretzky and Steve Yzerman and the local junior team (also called the Terriers). He admires not only their skills but their drive as well.

“When you are growing up you dream of playing junior, you idolize those guys. When you are playing junior when you are younger, everything is new to you and you are kind of like a bright-eyed

Tim Slukynsky

Snowmobile club seeks clubhouse access

By Calvin Daniels Staff Writer

Yorkton Council took the initial step to amend the city snowmobile bylaw to add to the incity trail system, but it was not a unanimous approval.

The request came from the local Sno Riders Club with Jason Popowich making a presentation to the regular meeting of Council.

Popowich noted the club has recently located their new clubhouse to 263 Myrtle Avenue, and the trail groomers are stored at the new clubhouse.

They “are currently driving along Myrtle Avenue and York Road to connect to the existing trail system,” explained René Richard, Director of Engineering and Asset Management, with the city.

TERRIER

Continued from Page 2 rookie. When you start getting older it may become more like a job. There is less glamour it seems. You’re always on the road, running and skating. But it’s worth it in the long run.”

The weather can also have an affect on him, depending on whether it is a sunny day or a raging blizzard.

“it can work both ways. If there is a blizzard you think of when you were a young kid playing hockey on the outdoor rinks. That was the most fun I have ever had when I was younger, skating around those outdoor rinks, playing shinny with all the guys.

“It sort of brings you back to that. You think what a great day for hockey when it’s snowing out and it’s nice and cold.”

Popowich also noted, additionally, some members utilize their snowmobiles to attend club meetings with no trail access to the new clubhouse.

“The Club has requested an amendment to the bylaw to allow for a safe trail for snowmobilers to access an area near the new clubhouse across the street to attend meetings and for the groomers to have a trail access not located along the street,” said Richard.

The Sno Riders and the City of Yorkton have had a long-standing gentleman’s agreement that the Sno Riders, as main users of the trails, will take responsibility to mark, and maintain their trail including applicable signage, added Richard.

Richard explained, the proposed new access is located mostly on either legal right-ofway (undeveloped roadways) or City property.

However, there is one location where it would cross a CN spur line. The groomed trail system already crosses many rail lines. So we would assume that the Sno Riders will obtain any necessary approvals for such crossings.

“The proposed access would also cross York Road, which would be considered a high traffic area. Again, groomed trails already cross several highways in and around Yorkton so it is assumed snowmobilers are accustomed to crossing roadways in a highway scenario,” he said.

“There is a section of Myrtle Avenue where residential properties could be affected by noise. This would be dependent on the amount of snowmobilers that utilize the new access and the speed by which they travel.”

Councillor Chris Wyatt was the first voice against the amendment.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea having snowmobiles come into the city. It doesn’t make sense to have that,” he said, adding they are “. . . not allowed in any other area of the city.”

Coun. Randy Goulden asked if there had been issues with other trail sections in the city?

“Not that I’m aware of,” replied Popowich.

However later Richard said “we (the city) do get some complaints from time-to-time,” adding in such instances it is dealt with by bylaw officers as required.

Coun. Darcy Zaharia said his concern was the building the Sno Riders are in now, the former

city building Council was told was unsafe for staff ahead of construction of the new operations building on York Road. He questioned if the city is discussing that situation with the Sno Riders?

“I’m not aware that we are,” said Richard.

On the positive side both Goulden and Mayor Mitch Hippsley noted the trails attract tourism and that stimulates the winter economy of the city.

In the end the amendment received first reading with Wyatt and Zaharia sitting opposed. It will now go to the public for possible input before being back before Council for second and third reading in January.

“Although it happened more than 10 years ago, I remember the moment like it was yesterday,” writes Chris Therien to open his recently released bio ‘Road to Redemption’ from Triumph Books.

“Life-changing events have a way of staying fresh in your memory and this one will never fade from mine. Much of my adult life had been spent secretly battling a silent demon: one shared by millions of people, but each struggle unique in its own way.

“It took an act as simple as cleaning an upstairs closet for me to come to grips with a harsh reality.

“I was an alcoholic.

“While rummaging through clothes and the like, I came upon a shoe with a water bottle jammed inside it. Only the bottle wasn’t halffilled with water.

“It was vodka.

“I stared at the bottle for a moment, then gulped down its contents and threw the bottle in the trash.

“There are two birthdates in my life: The first, December 14, 1971, when I officially entered this world and the second,

February 7, 2011—the day of the infamous shoe incident—when I became the person I truly believe I was meant to be.”

The opening tells you much about the book and its writer.

To start you expect he has found his path to deal with the alcoholism, or it is unlikely he would be telling his story so openly.

Secondly, you know immediately Therien is a man with a level of intestinal fortitude. While I have not faced the demon of addiction personally I am confident it is not an easy battle, and those dealing with it need an inner strength just to stop and ask for help, let alone the bumps along the road to recovery.

And finally, the opening paragraphs suggested a good read to follow.

On this last one, the book is a bit of a slow starter unfortunately.

Therien spends a 100plus pages just growing up and moving through hockey to finally make the NHL with Philadelphia in the 1994-95 season.

If you were a fan of the skilled defenceman, or a Flyers fan, that background will be relished. Admittedly, I was neither,

and given it was nearly one-third of the book it dragged a tad.

But, within that 100 pages were the first hints that Therien was maybe a bit more excessive as a partier and drinker than teammates along the way.

In the end that is what makes ‘Road to Redemption’ worth adding to your sports collection, the thread through the book that relates Therien’s alcoholism and his battle to deal with it.

As noted at www. triumphbooks.com “in Philadelphia Flyers orange and black, Chris Therien cut an imposing figure on the ice, a stalwart physical presence for over a decade in the NHL. (He played 764 regular season games in the NHL). But by the end of his playing career, he was concealing a much greater battle with alcoholism which bled into

his professional and family life.”

In an interview with Sports This Week Therien said the key to recovery can be the willingness to ask for help, but that does take some courage.

“To me that’s the hardest part of it,” he said, adding its hard to admit to oneself you have a problem with drugs or alcohol, and harder still to share that with someone else and asking for help.

As for the opening to the book Therien said it truly was something of an awakening.

By the time he found the vodka in a longforgotten shoe he was already in recovery, but the drinking of that mouthful of booze really was something of a toast to his own rebirth, and he has not looked back since

in the sense of taking a drink.

NHLers’ book tells of battle with alcohol CALVIN DANIELS Sports

“It was basically my good-bye,” he said, adding there was irony in the discovery as he was just “trying to do something responsible” in cleaning the closet when he came upon the secreted away vodka.

The process is not always easy but Therien maintains a simple outlook.

“Do it right and take it one day at a time,” he said. “That’s the message I try to spread to people.”

Overall the book is very much a broad reflection on his life and career with a perspective gained from over 10 years of sobriety, which is key. The story is very different written through the lens after 10 years away from alcohol.

“Therien takes readers from the blue line to the broadcast booth, sharing untold stories from life in pro hockey while laying bare his private struggle with addiction, including his ultimate low in 2006 after the death of his sister,” notes triumphbooks.com

“Road to Redemption also details Therien’s deep bond with the city

of Philadelphia and his new path helping others find recovery from drug or alcohol abuse.”

Therien said for him the decision to deal with his alcoholism really came down to family.

It is a case where he came to realize alcoholism is “a disease that progresses. It will kill you.”

And, Therien had family he wanted to be there for.

“I had a life worth living,” he said.

The book is ultimately a way to help others, said Therien.

“I wanted to do it so it might help others struggling with drugs and alcohol,” he said. “The best part for me is that it’s a bit of a road map for other people.”

Yorkton residents come together to support victims of apartment fire

By Tyson Off Staff Writer

YORKTON – A fire that decimated an apartment complex on Dec. 6 left several families without the bare essentials but a Yorkton resident stepped up to help those families in their time of need.

KristenWeber-Karcha, Owner and Instructor at Extravadance Studio, typically organizes a toy and food drive this time of year. Upon hearing the news of the apartment fire, she felt it was her duty to help those who had been impacted.

“We do a toy and food drive here (Extravadance) – we ask the students to bring in toys and non-perishable items, so I thought it would be just perfect to kind of partner with that — get some jackets, some blankets — things like that,” said WeberKarcha in an interview with Yorkton This Week.

“Well, it turned into

three trailer loads of clothing and bedding and kitchen items – you name it,” said Weber-Karcha.

With the outpouring of support from the community, the Extravadance Studio soon became full and Weber-Karcha needed to find a more suitable space for all the donated items.

“I reached out to Pastor Des at Prairie Harvest and he helped

me get a space — we’re still running classes at the studio so we didn’t have room to spread this out for people to come and get what they need — so we were able to go to Bruno’s place where they have an open hall,” said Weber-Karcha.

Different groups and individuals showed up to help organize the donations.

“I had some people come and help volun-

teer – the staff from All About Flowers came to help, some students from DREAMbuilders –staff and students from there came to help me sort and fold and unpack everything,” said WeberKarcha, adding, “over a couple of days all the residents that were affected by the fire were able to come and get what they needed.”

“The stuff was all donated for people in

need, so after a couple of days we were able to pack it up and...we took it to Serendipity [a local thrift store],” said WeberKarcha, adding, “any of the fire victims who need anything will be able to come there and get what they need with no charge.”

When asked why she took on the responsibility, Weber-Karcha said, “I find it very hard to not help people who are in need.”

It was evident that the community held the same sentiments when the overwhelming support for the effort saw donations total enough for 70 families.

“It’s really impressive — the amount of people that showed up to help and it makes me proud to live here because there’s people that care — there’s people that want to help others in the community that they don’t know — they didn’t ask questions — they just started showing up and

bringing

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things and I think that says a lot right there.”

Play Santa the Viking in PnP effort

Board games can be relatively expensive, at least some have higher initial prices which some budgets might struggle to work in.

Now when you do some number crunching, hours to play times number of players, the recreational cost per hour per person soon plunges to far lower levels than say fishing, golf or hockey, but that doesn’t mean everyone can buy one for the season.

So why not give a print ‘n play a try.

Many PnP games are downloadable free, and have limited pages to print, and require limited added materials to play, and are available for solo, or group play, so they can be an option for fun on a tight budget.

With the holiday sea-

THE MEEPLE GUILD (YORKTON)

son upon us it seems a good time to look at the 2021 release from designer Radoslaw Ignatow called Giftbringer.

This is one of those really easy to produce offerings. Once printed – only five pages – “all you need to play the game is a pen, four dice, printed maps and some willingness to share the Christmas spirit,” notes www.awakenrealmslite.

com

The game takes you back to the time

when Odin was seen as a sort of Santa and in Giftbringer you play as a Viking pretending to be Father Christmas. You must get your crew to deliver as many presents as possible, get all the cupcakes, biscuits and thank you’s in return and of course earn enough points to win.

The game can be played by virtually any number of players, (two or more), all they need is their own player’s map page, so it’s great for a

YDCF grant applications open until Dec. 31

Submitted by YDCF

YORKTON – The Yorkton & District Community Foundation is accepting grant applications from groups in Yorkton and surrounding communities until Dec. 31, 2022.

This is the third year YDCF is distributing grants from donations it has received. Previous grants supported arts and culture, mental health counselling, food security, education, childcare safety courses, recreation activities and youth programming. Applications are not limited to these program areas.

“The wishes of donors determine the types of activities and the communities to be supported by the grants programs,” said Ray Bailey, President of the YDCF Board of Directors.

Registered charities and non-profits aligned with a registered charity can apply. Organizations in Yorkton, Melville and Kamsack have received past grants, with the resulting outreach extending far beyond these communities. This year $6,500 is available to

grant out, an increase of 8.3 per cent over last year.

YDCF currently administers three named funds. The Krepakevich Fund for Families was established by Gene and Gladys Krepakevich to help families in need in Yorkton and surrounding area. This fund is a lasting legacy bearing the family name each year.

The Mental Health Fund was initiated with donations by a former fundraising group. The General Community Fund supports applications that assist and improve communities in a multitude of ways. Donors can add to any of these funds or create their own.

“There are many generous people who want to help others and who want to preserve and enhance their community. The Yorkton & District Community Foundation is pleased to provide the structure to help,” Bailey added.

The grant application form and guidelines are available on the Yorkton & District Community Foundation website at ydcf.ca.

Yule party.

Four dice are rolled and each player uses the numbers to perform a bunch of different actions, and you do that over 10 rounds. It’s simple enough, but with enough decisions to make it challenging too.

Helping the experience is really nice ‘cartoony’ Viking art, that really fits with the lighthearted feel of the game.

Thanks to the database at www.boardgamegeek.com I was able to arrange a quick email interview with the designer to learn a bit more about Giftbringer and its creation.

Not surprisingly Ignatow comes as a gamer himself listing Mage Knight, Aeons End and Ubongo as favourite games.

But I was more interested in Giftbringer.

“This is a commissioned project done for Awaken Realms Lite, they are the owners of this game - I am only the author,” related Ignatow. “They asked for a roll and write game in a Christmas climate. I already had a game developed about Vikings attacking a town, it was changed very interestingly to deliver presents.”

The game is not a first effort for Ignatow.

“I have been creating games for 20 years for my own pleasure, commercially for three. I have created quite a few,” he offered.

So with Giftbringer what was he trying to achieve?

“In that case, complete the given command and create a game fit for Christmas that can be printed on a single sheet of paper,” he said, reiterating it was a job in this case.

But, it still offers fun.

“In my games I always focus on making them force you to think and plan with the simplest possible rules, this can also be found here,” said Ignatow.

“I think the combination of the great simplicity of the rules with a large dose of combination and a short game time. This is what I

myself like in games.”

In that regard Ignatow said Giftbringer offers “quick gameplay, simple rules and a lot of thinking combined with a Christmas atmosphere. I think few games meet all these conditions.

More will no doubt be coming from Ignatow.

“I work on new games all the time, I do it professionally,” he said. “My last project was a very successful Kickstarter game about a castaway ‘Island Alone’ and in February 2023 I am launching on KS with a game about cat burglars in a fantasy world.

“I don’t plan anything related to Giftbringer for the time being.”

But if you are looking for some low cost gaming fun with a seasonal flavour, you can download the files at awakenrealmslite.com

By Brielle, St. Michael’s School, Grade. 2F.

By Isaac, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2.

By Annika, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2/3E.

By Austin, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2/3E.

By Emily, BGC, Yorkton.

By Navya Jaysasinghe, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2F.

By Minjeong, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2F.

By Onish, St. Michael’s School, Grade 3.

Back Row: Wendy, Lee, George, Gwen, Kaila, Greg, Dustin, Kyle & Dustin. Front row: Todd & Garett.

Camera shy: Carey, Barry, and Larry.

The looks of the season

For many a seasonal tradition is a drive around the city to take in the yard displays of bright lights, cheery snowmen and happy Santas, and this year there are many all over the community to seek out.

I - Marley’s Ghost *

MARLEY was dead: to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. The register of his burial was signed by the clergyman, the clerk, the undertaker, and the chief mourner. Scrooge signed it: and Scrooge’s name was good upon “Change, for anything he chose to put his hand to. Old Marley was as dead as a door-nail. Mind! I don’t mean to say that I know, of my own knowledge, what there is particularly dead about a door-nail. I might have been inclined, myself, to regard a coffin-nail as the deadest piece of ironmongery in trade. But the wisdom of our ancestors is in the simile; and my unhallow ids shall not disturb it, or the Country’s done for. You will therefore pray to repeat, emphatically, that Marley was as dead as a door-nail.

Stave

By Vivian, St. Michael’s School, Grade 3.

By Shayna, St. Michael’s School, Grade 2F.

By Willow, St. Michael’s School, Grade 3.

Staff Photo by Calvin Daniels

Community support pushes toy drive beyond expectations

Courtesy of Canora Courier

With an ambitious goal of $3,500 in donations, there was probably some doubt in the minds of Yuletide Toy Drive organizers as to whether the challenge of rapid inflation in recent months would prevent Canora and area residents from supporting this popular holiday season tradition as they had in the past.

But residents showed the true spirit of Christmas, blowing past the goal with time to spare and reaching a final total of $5,298.

Over and above that figure, The Red Apple Store gave back a total of $795 for additional toy purchases.

Jocelyne Weinbender, spokesperson, expressed her appreciation for the support.

“The community is fabulous, the support is just great, especially now with things being tougher and everything getting more expensive,” said Weinbender. “Maybe people are inspired by what they’re seeing in the world today, especially with all the horrible things in the news. They want to spread a bit of joy and make someone’s life easier.”

Weinbender reported that there were plenty of volunteers of all ages to help make sure everything ran smoothly on Fill the Sleigh Day at the Red Apple on Dec. 3, a central event in the success of the Yuletide Toy Drive.

“It was a great turnout of people coming in to donate on a cold day,” she said. “The crew from Canora Ambulance Care was there to volunteer, Red Apple employees helped out, and we had a number of young volunteers to take donations and help in other ways as well.”

Volunteers who gave of their time included: Alyssa Lukey, Aubrey Monette, Chance Weinbender, Daylia and Zennia Lukey, Claire Elliott, Jax McLeod,

Thanks to the support of donors, at press time a total of 38 children from 16 families were set to receive toys.

The majority of the donations came from Canora and surrounding area, but support was also received from as far away as Saskatoon.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone,” said

Continued on Page 12

We’re filled with joy as we count our blessings, and your kind friendship is among them. Noel!

Yorkton

Lucas Thompson and Jayden Dergousoff.

Once again this year, Canora and area residents showed their generosity through toy and cash donations.

Santa joined

toy donations into the ambulance.

The success of Fill the Sleigh Day on Dec. 3 at the Red Apple Store was greatly aided by the work of young volunteers. Accepting donations, from left, were: Aubrey Monette, Chance Weinbender, Jax McLeod and Daylia Lukey.

Deck the halls and trim the tree, wrap the gifts and share the glee. The holidays are in full swing and on our list is one last thing: A note of thanks and our warm wishes too for peace, joy and friendship to last the year through!

Kamsack woman presented with Queen’s Jubilee medal

A Kamsack woman was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal during a reception at Government House in Regina on Dec. 13.

Audrey Horkoff of Kamsack, was one of 26 recipients of the medal presented by Lieut.-Gov. Russ Mirasty. Eight of the recipients were past presidents of Agribition. Horkoff served in that capacity from 2008 to 2009 and remains a lifetime member.

The medal was conferred on Horkoff “in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne as Queen of Canada and in recognition on your valuable contribution to the province.”

The citation was signed by Mirasty as well as Premier Scott Moe.

Among her volunteer work she is currently the chair of the Assiniboine Health and Wellness Foundation, where she has worked to recruit physicians to Kamsack for many years.

Nominated by Terry Dennis, the Canora-Pelly MLA, Horkoff had been presented with Her Majesty’s Gold Medal in 2012 in recognition of community volunteer work.

While attending a reception at Government House in Regina on Dec. 13, Audrey Horkoff was photographed with David Marit, Minister of Agriculture, in front of her Majesty’s portrait, which now hangs in Government House.

Courtesy of Kamsack Times

Audrey Horkoff of Kamsack was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal by Lieut.-Gov. Russ Murasty on Dec. 13.

Sturgis sparkles with Christmas spirit

Courtesy of Preeceville Progress

The Sturgis community and various organizations banded together to bring a hallmark Christmas to Sturgis. “It all started with a unique idea to bring the spirit of Christmas to the community,” said Aileen Lubiniecki, one of the organizers.

The idea was to decorate the Sturgis Regional Park in an enchanted forest featuring lighted displays. Those businesses, organizations and individuals who decorated a

camp site were: Gateway Co-op, Crossroads Credit Union, Jamie Lario, Bret Konkel, Walter and Karen Rose, Cross Cuts Hair Salon and Nails, Living Faith and Word, KBM Electric, Aileen Lubiniecki and Elmer and Colleen Jackson.

The fireworks were made possible through generous donations from Co-op, Cory Babiuk and Jason Meroniuk.

Hot-dogs and hot chocolate were served courtesy of Crossroads Credit Union, downtown businesses and Perry

Keller.

Lloyd Smith from Pelly provided the horse drawn sleigh rides that were sponsored by Jamie Lario.

“We recognize the outstanding assistance from Shaun Howard in preparing the park and being the fireworks coordinator. Thanks to Sturgis Town Council for

their support and assistance.

“A huge thank you to all who participated in the 2022 Christmas Light Festival,” stated Lubiniecki,

In a special magical evening at the park on Dec. 12, the displays were viewed in grand fashion when residents took the opportunity to come

have a free hotdog and hot chocolate and take a walk through the park to view the lighted displays.

Santa Claus made a brief appearance much to the delight of many children, followed by Christmas caroling and fireworks at the conclusion of the evening. A huge bonfire also added some warmth to the evening.

“The evening felt like a hallmark movie,” said

Lubiniecki. “The sparking lights, children’s laughter and the sheer happiness that radiated from everyone was magical. It is the second year for this event and we are already looking forward to next year where we can improve and make it better. The evening was beautiful and mother nature added her warmth to the occasion,” she concluded.

Wednesday, December

Thursday, December

Wednesday, December

Saturday, December

Charolette Townsend had a little trouble deciding if she wanted to sit on Santa’s knee but her mom April Stinson encouraged her to sit beside Santa at the Sturgis Festive of Lights.

Brinley Robinson, of Sturgis eagerly sat with Santa to tell him what she wanted for Christmas this year.

The Gateway Co-op in Sturgis decorated a campsite.

Expect to see impaired driving checkstops

Saskatchewan drivers will notice an abundance of impaired driving checkstops across the province throughout the holiday season.

“Checkstops are an important enforcement tool and a highly visual reminder to drivers about the importance of planning a safe ride home,” Minister

Responsible for SGI Don Morgan said. “Impaired driving is a persistent and deadly problem in Saskatchewan, and it requires creative solutions and ongoing enforcement. SGI is providing additional funding to police agencies to conduct more than 40 checkstops this December in order to keep our roads

safe.”

Checkstops can occur any day of the week, on a municipal street, in a city, in a town or on a highway. Police also use less conspicuous tactics to catch impaired drivers, and the public is encouraged to call 9-1-1 to report any motorists they believe are driving under the influence

of alcohol or drugs. The bottom line is this: if you drive impaired anywhere in Saskatchewan, there is a strong chance you’ll be caught, arrested and charged.

Roadside alcohol screening

Under federal legislation, specifically Bill C-46, which took effect in 2018 - police can legal-

ly demand a roadside breath test for alcohol from anyone they legally stop. A trained officer will make a formal demand that someone provide a breath sample into an approved screening device. There is no requirement for reasonable suspicion for the officer to make a demand. People who refuse a test can be charged with a Criminal Code offence, with penalties that are the same or greater than those for impaired driving convictions. If you’re not driving impaired, the breath test just takes a matter of seconds, and drivers who pass are on their way quickly.

“We appreciate the cooperation of drivers who may be pulled over for our checkstops,” Officer in Charge of the Saskatchewan RCMP’s Traffic Services Division Supt. Grant St. Germaine said. “Please be assured that a demand for a breath sample is not an accusation; it’s simply standard procedure to help ensure that people are driving sober. We use all the tools we have at our disposal to try to keep our roads safe - roadside breath tests being one of them.”

Drivers are reminded to only drive if they are sober, and to find a safe ride home when they’re impaired.

Stockings for Seniors looks to deliver Christmas cheer

By Tyson Off Staff Writer

The

From

YORKTON – A local effort to bring gift-stuffed stockings to seniors in area nursing homes is underway.

“It’s upwards of 600 stockings that we are trying to fill,” said Program Organizer Kristen Weber-Karcha in an interview with Yorkton This Week.

Now in its fourth year, the Stockings for Seniors Program gives to nursing homes in Yorkton, Kamsack, Canora, Preeceville, Norquay, Invermay, Saltcoats and Theodore.

“We also try to do the [Yorkton] hospital as well — if we’ve got enough extra items — then anybody that’s going to be hospitalized over Christmas – we’ll take them something as well,” said Weber-Karcha.

“These people can’t necessarily leave – sometimes they’re on lockdown, sometimes they don’t have people to come visit them and it’s Christmas – if one little present can brighten their holiday then I’m happy to provide this program,” said Weber-Karcha.

The stockings and gift bags are set to be delivered to residences of the nursing homes on the 19th, 20th, and 21st of Dec. and the group is still looking for participants.

“We take sponsorships from businesses, organizations, schools and families – just different ways people want to help out,” said Weber-Karcha, adding, “some of the schools have done challenges...like St. Paul’s School – on one day they had to bring in lip glosses

Merry Christmas

holidays are a time to be with family and friends, sharing in culture, tradition, food and ceremony. With the prospect of a new year upon us, take time to reflect on the accomplishments of the year gone by and the importance of community.

all of us at the Métis Nation Government in Saskatchewan, have a safe and happy season and may the new year find everyone in good spirits and good health.

It’s upwards of 600 stockings that we are trying to fill,

— Kristen Weber-Karcha, Program Organizer

Continued from Page 16 and then another day they had to bring in socks and another day bring in soft cheese twists and another day chocolate bars and hard candies.”

The efforts from students at St. Paul’s school helped to fill a substantial

amount of the stockings.

“They brought us in over 400 items themselves,” said Weber-Karcha, noting the school’s participation was just one way the community got involved.

“I like to say it’s bringing a little bit of Christmas cheer.”

Tree lightings bring northeast Saskatchewan communities together

By Nicole Goldsworthy, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter (Humboldt Journal)

The tradition of tree lightings goes back many years ago. In 1848, the Illustrated London News published a woodcut of the royal family with a decorated Christmas tree. After that, the tradition spread quickly far and wide.

Community tree lightings are a staple in many northeast communities to bring the community together and spread the Christmas spirit.

The community of Porcupine Plain has been making the tree lighting an important start to the Christmas season for the last nine years. It has grown over the years to include sleigh rides, hot chocolate and honouring a hard

working volunteer in the community for their volunteerism. This year, that prestigious honor was given to Glenda Kwasney.

Porcupine Plain mayor Nick Wood said that traditions are the things that define us as a community and shape our character. They make a place familiar, build bonds and give us a reason to get together. This tree lighting makes Christmas just a bit more special.

Many other communities also enjoy this same tradition like in the City of Humboldt a couple weeks ago or the Town of Nipawin just last week.

Many communities in the Northeast make this tradition important and want to spread the spirit of peace and love throughout our region. Christmas is upon us, and the communities in the northeast are spreading the joy.

Kristen Weber-Karcha, pictured here (center, left group), with students of St. Paul’s School. Efforts by St. Paul’s saw the school contribute over 400 items for the cause.

Salvation Army looks to raise more funds through Kettle Campaign

By Tyson Off Staff Writer

YORKTON – The Salvation Army has raised $60,000 of their $125,000 Kettle Drive goal.

“We’ve never raised that much before, so we’re reaching for the roof,” said Roy Bladen, Ministry Leader, in an interview with Yorkton This Week

“Today (Dec.19) we’ve actually turned in $60,000

and we have this week to go, so we’re just kind of praying that we’re going to make at least $100,000,” added Bladen.

“We’ve given out 263 hampers and an awful lot of toys,” said Bladen, noting the number equates to more than 1000 people being helped for the holidays.

“We’re very thankful for the folks of Yorkton and what they do for us in these very difficult times

– we do with what we can and I’m sure the lord will bless us,” said Bladen.

Bladen said that businesses who have donated in the past haven’t this year, likely due to their own struggles.

“I’m sure the businesses are struggling trying to sell this year, so therefore they’re not able to give us any financial help,” said Bladen, adding, “we have probably about 30 different businesses out

in Yorkton who would give us a donation every Christmas and this year so far we’ve had three.”

“I know they’re struggling – but we’d like to wish everybody a very merry and blessed Christmas and a happy new year and we thank them so much for what they do.”

For information and to donate, visit https:// donate.salvationarmy.ca/, or contact the Yorkton

Salvation Army at 306782-2867.

In November, the University of Saskatchewan released the results of a poll that found food bank use in the Prairies is the highest in the country.

“CHASR’s Taking the Pulse of Canada survey had 1,001 respondents across Canada who were contacted via landlines and cellphones. Nearly 78 per cent of respond-

ents said they had used coupons or bought food items on sale, 58.6 per cent said they had decreased household food waste, and 54.5 per cent said they had planned meals to ensure they had enough money and food. As well, 30.7 per cent said they had eaten less healthy food because it’s cheaper,” read a media release from the University of Saskatchewan.

To help keep you and your family safe this winter season, the

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is sharing safety tips in

their 12 Days of Holiday Safety campaign.

“This season is a time to celebrate with decorations and gathering with family, but a few simple actions can keep you and your loved ones safe,” Saskatchewan Fire Marshal Wayne Rodger said. “By following these safety tips, you’ll be able to identify and reduce the risk of common fire and safety hazards in your home.”

From December 12 to 24, 2022, the SPSA will post a daily holiday safety tip on their Facebook page with actions you can take in and around your home. The tips will cover a range of everyday household items such as lights, extension cords, winter travel and candles. Most actions take

just a few seconds and have little to no cost but will significantly reduce your safety risk throughout the winter season.

Fire Commissioner and SPSA President Marlo Pritchard agrees.

“It only takes seconds for a fire to start because of lit candles left unattended, overtaxed electrical cords or a pot left unwatched,” Pritchard said. “A safe celebration in your home may be the most important gift your family and friends receive this year.”

A fact sheet listing all 12 topics and their safety tips is also available online at: www.saskpublicsafety.ca/holidays.

As more time is spent indoors during the holiday season, the risk of fire increases. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) encourages Saskatchewan residents to participate in the 12 Days of Holiday Safety campaign to help keep them and their families safe this holiday season.

Day 1: Holiday Preparedness

Ensure your home is equipped to cele-

brate the holiday safely. Each home should have a working carbon monoxide detector, smoke alarm, fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit.

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed according to manufacturer directions and tested monthly.

Make sure you inspect your fire extinguishers. They should be inspected monthly and a certified technician should check it each year.

Maintain your first-aid kit by checking that each item is in good working order, has not deteriorated and is within its expiry date. Items should be replaced as soon as possible after they have been used.

Day 2: Tree Safety

If you use a real tree this holiday season, make sure it’s fresh. It should be green with needles that are hard to pull from the branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. Real trees require up to four litres of water daily, and the base of the trunk should be in water at all times. A dry tree can quickly ignite.

If you use an artificial tree, ensure it is labeled as flame resistant. This does not mean the tree won’t catch fire, but it does indicate that the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly. Trim your tree using flame-resistant or non-combustible decorations.

Trees should be placed away from hightraffic areas, doorways, heating vents, fireplaces, space heaters, candles and other ignition sources.

Day 3: Holiday Lighting

Before you put your holiday lights up, check to see if they have broken sockets, frayed or damaged wiring, or loose connections. Damaged or frayed lights should be disposed of.

Always use lights that are CSA approved. Make sure that you only use indoor lights inside — and outdoor lights outside.

When hanging lights outside, use insulated staples or specially designed hooks, not nails or tacks. Do not puncture

SAFETY

Continued from Page 18

light strands with staples or nails.

Never use lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights and you may be electrocuted if you touch it.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the number of light strands that can be safely connected to a single outlet. When you leave the house or go to bed, shut off all indoor holiday lights.

Day 4: Plan Your Escape

A fire escape plan could save your life. It’s important that everyone, including overnight guests, are familiar with your home escape plan. Everyone must know what to do and where to go when the smoke alarm sounds.

Plan two ways out of your home from every room so you can still leave quickly in the event one route is blocked by fire. Designate a spot outside where everyone will gather after evacuating.

Practice your home fire escape plan with all members of your household at least once a year. Provide help to younger children or older adults who may need assistance to evacuate.

Day 5: Fireplace Safety

Before you use your fireplace, ensure you have inspected it for damage. If damage is present, call a qualified professional for repairs.

When using a fireplace or woodstove, ensure there is a fresh air supply into your home.

Only use seasoned and dry wood. Never use gas-

oline or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Do not burn your tree, wrapping paper or cardboard boxes in your fireplace. Use a fireplace screen to control sparks.

Keep flammable objects like holiday decorations, stockings, cards, etc. at least one metre from your fireplace when in use.

Never leave your fire unattended. Clean the ashes regularly and place cool ashes in a metal container with a lid and store outside, away from flammable materials.

Day 6: Winter Preparedness

Everyone should have a winter preparedness kit for their home and vehicle in case of emergency. A household kit should contain the essentials and be able to sustain you and your family for 72 hours. An emergency kit for your vehicle should contain basic supplies to help you stay comfortable if you are

stuck on the side of the road or have to wait out a storm.

Day 7: Extension Cords and Power Strips

Buy only CSAapproved extension cords and power strips. These devices should only be used as a temporary connection. If you require more outlets, hire a qualified electrician to install them.

Before using, check for any damage. If the insulation is worn or if there is any damage to the cord or plug in, the cord should be discarded.

Never place a cord under a rug, wall, doorway, ceiling or floor. If a cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which could result in a fire. Extension cords and power strips should never be plugged into one another, and never used to power a space heater or other producing appliances.

Only use outdoor extension cords outdoors, and keep them

clear of snow and standing water.

Day 8: Child and Pet Safety

Having children and pets in the home can increase the risk of a fire during the holiday season. Lit candles should be out of reach of little hands and wagging tails to avoid being knocked over. Consider using electric candles instead of real ones.

Establish a one-metre “kid-free zone” around possible burn hazards such as lit candles, fireplaces or space heaters. Children and pets are both curious and will investigate cooking appliances, candles or fires in fireplaces. Never leave them alone around an open flame.

Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked out by a profes-

sional.

Day 9: Lithium-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space and can overheat, catch fire or explode if not used properly.

Make sure to always monitor your devices when charging, and do not charge devices under your pillow, on your bed or on a couch. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and only use the charging cord that came with the device.

Batteries and devices should be kept at room temperature and out of direct sunlight to prevent them from overheating.

Stop using the battery or device if you notice an odour, change in colour, too much heat, change in shape, leaking or odd noises.

When it comes time to

dispose of your battery or device, do not place it in the trash. Look for a battery recycling location or contact your community for disposal instructions.

Day 10: Winter Travel Winter travel can be dangerous in certain conditions. Before you hit the road, make sure your emergency kit is packed and check the road conditions by using the Highway Hotline app or website.

Give yourself extra time to reach your destination or stay home in bad travel conditions. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to arrive. Slow down in bad weather, and don’t rely on cruise control or lane-keeping assistance in winter weather.

Always remember to wear your seatbelt, and never get behind the wheel if you are tired or Continued on Page 20

Season’s Greetings!

In sincere appreciation of your support and partnerships, we extend our warmest thoughts and best wishes for good health and a joy-filled holiday season.

The Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours (SIGN)

Continued from Page 19 under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Keep your phone charged but remember not to use it while driving. Have a passenger make the call or pull over if you need to call 9-1-1.

If you are inexperienced or uncomfortable with driving in winter conditions, learn how to manage skidding and spinout situations in a safe environment by taking a winter driving course.

Day 11: Kitchen Fires

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. You should not use the stove or

stovetop if you are tired or have consumed alcohol.

Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from the stove top. Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking and turn off the stove if you must leave.

If grease in a pot or pan catches fire, smother the flames by covering the pan with a lid, then turn off the heat. Never throw water on a grease fire. For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

If you are unable to put out or if you have any doubt about fighting a small fire, just get out.

When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire and call 9-1-1 from outside the home.

Day 12: Lit Candles

If you use candles this holiday season, ensure they are placed away from holiday decorations, hightraffic areas, windows, blinds, curtains and areas where children or pets could knock them over. Never use lit candles on a tree or near evergreens.

Use caution when carrying a lit candle. Always use a sturdy, non-flammable candle holder big enough to collect dripping wax.

Extinguish all lit can-

dles when you leave the room, when you go to sleep or when the candle flame is within five centimetres of the holder’s edge or decorative material.

Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home. Candles should not be used during a power outage. Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready instead.

Do not leave children alone in a room with a burning candle. Matches and lighters should be kept up high and out of children’s reach.

Consider using a battery-powered flameless candle to reduce the risk of a fire.

The looks of the season

Driving under the influence: effects, detection and consequences

The holiday season is in full swing, and celebrations of all kinds abound. However, amidst the merriment and festivities, it’s important to remember you should never get behind the wheel if you’re intoxicated. Here’s what you should know.

EFFECTS

Many of the skills required for safe driving, such as sound judgment, acute concentration, impeccable co-ordination, pronounced visual acuity and quick reflexes, are impacted by drug and alcohol use. Consequently, being under the influence can result in speeding, driving off the road, swerving into oncoming traffic and dozing behind the wheel.

DETECTION

Police officers use their training as well as what they see, hear and smell to determine if a driver has drugs or alcohol in their system. Plus, they can take a breath sample to determine a motorist’s blood alcohol level. Police may also issue a standardized field sobriety test (SFST), which typically requires the driver to walk in a straight line, stand and turn or stand on one leg.

CONSEQUENCES

If you’re caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you could have your licence sus-

pended following your arrest, even before being convicted.

Once convicted, the severity of your sentence will depend on your background and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. For instance, you could receive a hefty fine and jail time if you injured or killed someone.

To avoid collisions and other serious consequences of getting behind the wheel while under the influence, make sure you drive responsibly.

Staff Photo by Calvin Daniels

1100 Cards of Thanks 1120 Announcements

1130 Coming Events

Of all the many blessings However great or small To have had you for a sister Was the greatest gift of all The family chain is broken now And nothing seems the same But as God takes us one by one The chain will link again.

— Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by brother Ed, sisters Sylvia & Lorraine and their families.

WEGNER — In loving memory of Albert Wegner, February 14, 1921 to September 23, 2009.

He had a nature you could not help loving, And a heart that was purer than gold., And to those that knew and loved him, His memory will never grow old.

— Ever remembered, forever loved, Elsie and family 1100 Cards of Thanks

The family of the late Dennis Kuzek would like to thank everyone who supported us through Dennis’s illness and after his passing. The gifts of food, cards, phone calls and donations will never be forgotten. Thank you to Father Mel Slashinsky, cantor, choir, pall bearers and the Orthodox Ladies for serving the lunch after prayers, Ron Sebulsky and Cheryl Bilokreli for preparing the lunch in Theodore after the funeral and a thank you to Garry Gawryliuk for the eulogy.

The family of the late Kirk Neibrandt wish to extend our heartfelt thanks for the numerous cards of sympathy, flowers, gifts of food, the generous donation Education Trust Fund, visits, phone calls and support from relatives and friends following the loss of my husband and our father. Thank you to the Doctors, Nursing Staff of ICU and 1st West, Home Care Treatment Nurses and Palliative Care of the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. The Doctors and Nurses of the Allan Blair Cancer Centre, Regina, Regina General Hospital and the Foothills Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, for their care of Kirk. A special thank you to Dr. van Heerden and staff and Louck’s Pharmacy also. We also wish to express our thanks to Vern and staff at Christie’s Funeral Home for their professional service, Pastor Dan Moeller for officiating the service, Jackie Guy - soloist, for her special songs, the Rhein Lion’s Club for the use of the hall and the many people who helped with set up of hall, lunch and clean up. Thank you to everyone who shared with us and our families, Kirk’s Celebration of Life on August 15, 2012. Your support was overwhelming. “You can shed tears that he is gone, or you can smile because he lived; Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.” — With healing hearts, tears in our eyes, Wendy, Brandi and Dana Neibrandt. The family of the late Pauline Spelay wish to extend their heartfelt thanks for cards of sympathy, mass cards, flowers, gifts of food, donations, visits, phone calls from relatives and friends following the loss of our mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Thanks to the doctors and nursing staff at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre, Pasqua Hospital - Regina, St. Peter’s Hospital - Melville for their care. Also a special thank you to St. Paul Lutheran Care Home, Melville for your excellent care during this past year. We also wish to express our thanks to Larry and staff at Bailey’s Funeral Home for their professional services, Father Ray Lukie, Father Peter Pidskalny, Father Joakim Rac for officiating the services, the cantors, choir and the Knights of Columbus for leading the holy rosary, the grandchildren and great grandchildren for being pallbearers, crossbearer, epistle reader, and giving the eulogy, the luncheons as served by the St. Mary’s Cultural Centre after the prayers, and the Royal Canadian Legion after the funeral service. — Dennis, Michael, Trudy, Dave and Family

from 9:00 to 4:00 at Jedburgh, Saskatchewan, and during regular business hours on Dec 15, 2022 to Jan 11, 2023, at Jedburgh, Saskatchewan.

Also a special thanks to the staff at Bailey’s Funeral Home for their caring and professional matter for getting us through a difficult time.

1120 Announcements

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

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

1130 Coming Events

— Val & Family

Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location(s): #245 RM of Garry Municipal Office, Jedburgh, Saskatchewan Dated this 15 day of Dec, 2023.

- Music & Movement classes for children birth through age 4; PIANO LESSONS for all ages & styles. Call Diane at 641-9887.

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Municipality of Orkney No. 244 26 - 5th Ave. N., Yorkton, SK S3N 0Y8.

Published weekly by Boundary Publishers Ltd., a subsidiary of Glacier Ventures International Corp. The Glacier group of companies collects personal information from our customers in the normal course of business transactions. We use that information to provide you with our products and services you request. On occasion we may contact you for purposes of research, surveys and other such matters. To provide you with better service we may share your personal information with our sister companies and also outside, selected third parties who perform work for us as suppliers, agents, service providers and information gatherers. Our subscription list may be provided to other organizations who have products and services that may be of interest to you. If you do not wish to participate in such matters, please contact us at the following address: Yorkton This Week, 20 Third Avenue North, Yorkton, S3N 2X3. For a complete statement of our privacy policy, please go to our website at: www.yorktonthisweek.com or stop by our office and pick up a copy.

Hearing Council will hold a public hearing on October 11, 2012 at 10:30 a.m., at the R.M. Of ce at 26 - 5th Avenue North, Yorkton Saskatchewan, to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed Bylaw Z2/12. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing, or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal

Yorkton This Week is owned and operated by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP, a division of GVIC Communications Corp.

Orkney No. 244 this 21st day of September, 2012.

Donna Westerhaug, Administrator

By Calvin Daniels Staff Writer

It was a special event for the season Saturday as a come go presentation ‘Christmas on the Front’ was held at the Royal Canadian Legion General Alexander Ross Branch No. 77 - Yorkton.

The display was an amazing and rare look back at Christmas during World War One as seen through the eyes of three brothers.

“A friend Kelly

Thomas, his family had all of this material,” explained Brittany Johnson, vice president with the Legion.

Kelly Thomas said he actually sort of inherited the material.

“Actually how I got it, an uncle, kind of a family historian, gave it to his daughter,” he said, adding when he one day asked for some more information she said “why don’t I just get it to you. . . I’ve always been kind of interested

in family history.”

For the most part the material has been safely away in boxes, but then in conversation with Johnson the idea of the display came out.

“We both came up with the idea,” offered Thomas, who added he was very happy with the result.

“It’s amazing to see it all laid out. It seems so much bigger when you see it all laid out like this.”

Johnson said much of the material connected to Thomas’ great grandfather Robert Yates, who was one of three siblings born in Scotland.

“He was the only member of the family to emigrate to Canada,” she said.

Sister Isa and brother Harry, stayed in Scotland, which mean lots of correspondence back and forth as they stayed in touch, including during the war years with Robert in the Canadian army and a brother Harry with the Brits.

The material included “lots of Christmas cards and New Year’s cards,” said Johnson, adding that was sort of the impetus to create Saturday’s display.

“The whole family was writing back and forth during the war.”

The display covered a number of tables and photos and more material covered room dividers, all of which was almost overwhelming for Shelly Thomas, Robert Yate’s granddaughter. When asked how she felt about the presentation her immediate one-word answer was “tears”.

“It’s amazing. They have done such a great job,” she then added.

While Shelly Thomas knew the family had the material, but being displayed it was like her grandfather was finally speaking to her about the war.

“My grandfather never talked about the war as a lot of people didn’t,” she said, adding the letters are her link to what he dealt with.

“It’s so amazing, the correspondence, they were talking about it (the war) to each other.”

What is perhaps most unique about the material is the brothers father Henry Yates worked at the Edinburgh Scotsman

newspaper in Edinburgh and he sent letters set from linotype.

“It looks like it’s a newspaper story,” observed Johnson.

The stories within the correspondence tell much about the trying times of the war years.

For example, Robert left for England with the armed forces with his wife pregnant. He would not see his son until he was nearly two-years old.

“He never met his son until he came back from the war,” said Johnson.

There were even cards that simply said ‘To Daddy’ with love and hugs noted Kelly Foster.

Kelly Foster said he found it compelling when letters turned to life in England during the war, the shortages of some foods, how they wrote of not particularly liking Canadians over there, and of the arrival of the Americans.

Then there were the trenches.

“He (Robert) said five months felt like 10 years,” said Kelly Thomas.

Robert would end up dealing with trench nephritis, also known as war nephritis, is a kidney infection, first recognised by medical officers as a new disease during the early part of the First World War and distinguished from the then-understood acute nephritis by also having bronchitis and frequent relapses.

It put him in hospitals in England and Ontario before getting back to his family in Manitoba, all reflected in letters, although some lines were redacted at the time by officials.

And, “lots of letters talked about the Halifax explosion,” said Johnson, adding that was Dec. 6,

1917.

Interesting the brothers never crossed paths in the war, although they were in the same general area.

Robert would be in the battle of Vimy Ridge, his brother Harry fought at Arras.

“When you go to Vimy Ridge you stay in Arras,” explained Johnson.

The collection started

with family in Winnipeg, and Shelley Thomas said they are fortunate that it was all kept, something she added is pretty unique when realizing it’s letters, cards and photographs from more than a century ago.

That most photos have names is amazing too, she said, adding if not documented “there’s no one left to ask.”

Kelly Thomas (top photo), had received a large treasure trove of family correspondence from three brothers involved in the First World War. The material was at the local Legion on the weekend as a ‘Christmas On the Front’ display which inluded old photos, seasonal cards and family letters.

Although having had many personal issues (unrecognizable to himself), a certain main character in a popular sitcom thought he had the answer for anyone downtrodden in spirit. Wouldn’t it be nice if every problem could be remedied by a simple, hot beverage?

Yes, I’m talking about Sheldon from “The Big Bang Theory” (a show that really has nothing to do with it’s title).

Through a Google search I found out that at least one of the major writ-

ers for that show was, indeed, a Canadian! Yay! Suddenly Sheldon’s simple answer for anyone’s calamity makes much more sense.

Thanks to Loretta Erhardt, I saw a meme last week that depicted a cute cartoon character with eyes cast down and the words “The air hurts my face. Why do I live in a place where the air hurts my face?” That was followed by pictures of a huge spider, snake (not of the garter variety) and an alligator. Each of these pictures held the caption

The weather was a balmy minus thirty-three centigrade (with a windchill of negative three hundred and sixty two)

the day I saw that, compelling me to reevaluate my strong dislike of large arachnids, all things slithering and basically any animal that can eat me.

For every winter I’ve survived in Saskatchewan I’ve said to my husband, “No one has a gun to our heads. We wouldn’t have to live here,” but every year still finds us … .

Clearly it’s our choice to live in the Canadian prairies, but surely there’s a wiser one.

Perhaps I’m stuck — my brain frozen along with my face.

A few days ago, my daughter was stranded in

small town Saskatchewan because her vehicle quit. “See?” I said. “Even our cars know they shouldn’t be going out when it’s this cold.”

I’ve heard other people say things like — “We’re Canadians! We are super tough and certainly not scared to brave a bit of bitter weather!”

Admittedly, I am proud of that as well, but the attitude that continues makes less and less sense to me.

“Hand me that shovel, honey! I know it’s minus thirty two but the snow has reached five feet deep in the yard. Time to build a snow fort! And after that, I’ll hang the Christmas lights!” OR

“It’s only minus fortyone degrees so … dare me to stick my tongue to a flagpole! I’ll rip it off and still finish the three periods of our town-againsttown hockey game.

Argh!! Grr …”

Although I’ll never understand that level of toughness, I remember feeling more tenacious

when I was younger. You know … when as kids we stated there was no need for a jacket because it was only minus ten or twelve? Yep! Really hardy — that’s me.

I wonder if Candy Cane Hot Chocolate tastes as grand in hotter climates. Do they even have such a drink in those largeinsect and carnivoreinfested places or do they only enjoy ice-cold, fruity smoothies?

I suppose, if my car starts today, there’s really only one thing to do. Shut up, be thankful for Tim Hortons and slip through their drive-thru for, you guessed it! A wonderfully hot and delicious beverage!

Perhaps Sheldon (or more likely the Canadian writer behind him) had a point.

As I try to warm up this winter I am thankful to live in a country that, although has a season that freezes my face, is not only alligator-free but is still free from war and so many other, much more serious, hardships.

May we all feel incredibly blessed this Christmas season as we rejoice in the Reason we have it and as we serve our loved ones those sweet and hot beverages!

pdjanzen.com (website and blog)

“This is why I live in a place where the air hurts my face.”