Yorkton This Week 2023-01-25

Woman gives birth on bedroom floor

Hospital sent her home — twice

By Calvin Daniels Staff Writer

It was a day in December with the temperatures flirting with minus-40, Tara Luce realized she was likely soon to give birth.

It was Dec. 20, “when contractions started around eight in the morning,” she related, adding she and her husband Mitchell headed to Yorkton and the Regional Hospital, not realizing she would be turned away twice before finally giving birth on the floor of her mother’s townhouse in the city.

Luce said by 2 p.m. she was at the health centre, and on the stress monitor.

“My contractions were irregular,” she said, adding she was only three centimetres dilated. Given those factors she was told to go shopping, or out for a bite to eat and see if things progressed.

By five the contractions remained irregular, but she was in considerable pain and so she headed back to the hospital.

Again Luce said she was put on a monitor, and was again measured at only three centimetres dilated. In spite of the pain she was feeling, she

said it was suggested she go home – 45-minutes away in Stockholm, or take a hotel room.

“They did not offer to admit me at all. I was not given an option to stay, or I would have . . . I don’t know if they had any beds open,” she said.

Luce added staff were aware she was in pain.

“The second time around a nurse came in and I was on my knees having a contraction,” she said. “. . . I was in pain so I knew things were progressing.”

Rather than go home on the frigid night she went to stay with her mother.

Luce said she took a warm bath hoping it would quell her pain, then laid on the floor in her mother’s bedroom.

The pain remained and she started “to bleed a little bit,” she said.

Luce’s husband called 911, but it was too late, the baby was on its way.

The ambulance was in use, so that was out anyway, so it was up to a 911 operator to talk Luce’s husband and brother through a home delivery.

“Four pushes and it was over,” said Luce who added they are certainly thankful for such an easy birth under the circumstances.

Luce noted it was her third birth and things usually move faster with births after the first one.

Firefighters arrived first, and made sure mother and baby were all right, then EMS arrived, and checked her over.

“They had to deliver my placenta,” she said.

And then with the help of the firefighters to manoeuvre through the townhouse Luce and her new baby – soon to be named Lincoln – were

put in the ambulance and taken back to the hospital they had been in twice before that day.

At the hospital mother and child checked out healthy and held overnight, then went home for a day before returning for the child’s normal blood tests. All was good. But, it could have gone so much worse had there been any issues with the bedroom floor delivery by two untrained men and the help of a voice

on the phone.

Luce said she has made calls, getting little satisfaction regarding what happened from the Saskatchewan Health Authority or Yorkton maternity ward, neither offering any suggestion there were errors on how they handled her situation.

It has left Luce disappointed and disgruntled. She said several people have reached out about the incident,

including a lawyer.

“I would like more to happen. I’m just waiting and seeing what that might be and if a lawyer needs to be involved,” she said.

Luce said in her mind the “the health care system has gone down so badly,” and that really came into focus when a mother had to give birth on a townhouse floor after being at the hospital earlier twice the same day.

College merger officially going ahead

Cumberland College and Parkland College will move forward and merge the two colleges effective July 1, 2023.

Approval of the merger was received from the provincial government this week. The colleges have been operating as

a coalition since 2019 through a shared CEO and Board of Governors.

Interim President and CEO, Alison Dubreuil, explained that the merger will better position both colleges to serve their learners and communities through shared

resources, increased partnership opportunities and the development of new programming.

The new college will be based on shared values and an equal partnership that will support the local labour market

and demands of a growing Saskatchewan economy.

Ray Sass, Cumberland and Parkland College Board of Governors Co-Chair explained that “by merging Cumberland College and Parkland College, we will be

stronger together. This will position our merged college to be more robust and provide the opportunity to offer more programming to recruit and retain more students.”

Corinna Stevenson, Cumberland and Parkland College Board

of Governors Co-Chair stated that “the postsecondary landscape in Saskatchewan and Canada is increasingly competitive and we know significant change and innovation is required

Continued on Page A2

With the help of a voice from 911 husband Mitch Luce helped his wife Tara give birth with Yorkton firefighters and EMS arriving after to help as well. (Submitted Photo)

ESL speaker to highlight Toastmasters’ event

YORKTON –

Developing the confidence and skills to become a successful leader is the theme of the Treasure Chest Toastmasters Open House on Jan. 25.

The event will feature guest speaker Daisy Wei, a senior engineer in the energy sector, who will share her personal story on how she became a confident, successful leader as an English as

an Additional Language Speaker with the help of Toastmasters. Today Wei is a Distinguished Toastmaster and serves as a Toastmaster District Club Quality Coach, Director of Career Development at a charity school and a committee member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA).

“Most people know of Toastmasters as an educational program that helps improve your public speaking skills, but it’s so much more than that,” says Chris Federuik, President of the Treasure Chest Toastmasters.

“Skills such as leadership, meeting management, strategic thinking, organization and conflict management are also improved through

the education program offered by Toastmasters. Best of all, it’s very affordable, you can work at your own pace and you can take it locally,” added Federuik.

Treasure Chest Toastmasters is inviting people to learn about the club and what Toastmasters has to offer with the Open House scheduled for Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. People are welcome to come in-person

at Parkland College, 200 Prystai Way in Yorkton or join online via Zoom.

Interested participants can email the club at contact-1245@toastmastersclubs.org for more information. The event is free and open to the public.

The Toastmasters’ Pathways program helps members build the competencies they need to communicate and lead in a range of situations. Highlighted

by interactive, customized and flexible learning, Pathways offers expanded skill development and competencies that users can apply in their careers, personal lives and in the community. Skills the programs develop include effective coaching, enhancing listening skills, improving communication skills, boosting team collaboration and guiding successful teams.

Yorkton Minor Hockey update

YORKTON – The U11 AA

Core Real Estate Terriers defeated the The Lumsden Lions in the A Final of the George Watson Classic held in Regina over the weekend.

The Yorkton U13AA Stacy Neufeld Re/Max Terriers defeated the Swift Current Broncos 5-1 in a match held in Theodore on Jan. 22.

Sixteen teams competed in the Yorkton U13B Tournament held from Jan. 20 to 22. The Humboldt Broncos 1 team faced the Humboldt Bronocs 2 team in the A side final, with Humboldt Broncos 1 winning 6-5.

The Yorkton Pathway Supply Terriers faced Melfort in the C side final, losing 10-5. For a complete list of scores, visit YorktonMinorHockey. com.

Brakes on SaskTel plan to charge for email

By John Cairns, SASKTODAY.ca

REGINA — Minister for SaskTel Don Morgan has put an end to SaskTel plans to start charging a monthly fee for its email users.

SaskTel had recently announced plans to charge users $1.95 a month for the previously free SaskTel email, with the change set to happen April 21 for all users of SaskTel email.

But the plan received a swift negative reaction from users, with many threatening to bolt for the other free email services out there.

Late Friday afternoon, Morgan issued the follow-

SHHS Athletes of the Month

December:

FemaleDanika KlukOutstanding performance in Girl’s volleyball

MaleRhencent ManaloOutstanding performance in Boy’s volleyball

Submitted Photos

November:

FemaleSophie SmithOutstanding performance in girl’s soccer

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ing statement: “Following the decision from SaskTel earlier this week to implement a monthly fee for email users, I have spoken with Saskatchewan residents and heard their concerns.

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YBID board appointed

Mayor Mitch Hipplsey recently appointed the Board of Directors for the Yorkton Business Improvement District (YBID) at the Jan. 9, meeting of Yorkton Council.

Appointed for 2023 are: Doug Hull ¬ JA Audio as Chairperson for 2023, Sean Craib-Petkau Parlour Barber 2023 Vice Chair, Phoebe Buckles Under the Covers Boutique Past Chair, Lauretta Ritchie McInnes MLA Office Manager, Damon Syrota Cornerstone Credit Union, Dave Nussbaumer Lakeview Insurance Broker, Andrew Rae Xerox, Gale Pelletier Painted Hand Casino, Bruce Thurston Yorkton Legacy Coop, and new additions Todd Kulcsar Refined Yorkton, Lori Chute RBC, with Ken Chyz Council appointment.

At the YBID Jan. 10, board meeting Doug Hull was elected Chair and Sean Craib-Petkau was elected Vice Chair for 2023. — Submitted

23014SS2

Continued from Page A2 to ensure we continue to meet the changing needs of our students, communities, and partners.”

“Saskatchewan’s Government fully supports the merger of Cumberland and Parkland Colleges,” Minister of Advanced Education Gordon Wyant said. “By combining resources, the colleges will be better able to expand programming offered to students and increase opportunities for staff.”

The colleges will spend the next five months preparing for an official merger to take place later this year. The merger will follow a phased approach while ensuring student success and staff support continue to be a priority.

While the new merged college will still have the

“By combining resources, the colleges will be better able to expand programming offered to students and increase opportunities for staff.”

— Minister of Advanced Education Gordon Wyant

same student-centered approach to support diverse learners throughout our region, the college will go through a rebranding process resulting in a new name and logo. Dubreuil stated “our rebranding will reflect our shared values which includes us being an innovative, inclusive, relevant and responsive centre for adult education.”

A U13 tournament was hosted in Yorkton on the weekend featuring 16 teams. Staff Photo by Calvin Daniels

Mayor Mitch Hipplsey

Up Front

Rockin’ Rodney Ridge

When the January weather is delightful, rather than the usual winter frightful, then Rodney Ridge is a great place

to be for the fun of sledding, which was certainly the case Sunday.

Moe-Trudeau squabbling reaches new low

MURRAY MANDRYK

Politics

Even by the diminished standards of federalprovincial relations we’ve come to expect in the past few years, this was bad.

Both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier Scott Moe are to blame.

That probably isn’t a popular sentiment.

People prefer to blame one side or the other — largely, based on their own political preferences.

And in this latest bit of drama in which Moe made it publicly known he was outraged over not getting an invite from Trudeau’s office to join him on a tour of Saskatoon’s Vital Metals Inc. last week, it was clearly the Prime Minister who instigated this latest round in what is a very bad relationship.

It was Trudeau’s event — his visit to Saskatoon. As such, it was up to him to issue the invites. Moreover, some of us are old-fashioned enough to think that that the senior level of government bears the most responsibility for setting the tone and rising about the petty fray.

After all, a big part of the job is to rise above it all and get along with premiers in all parts of country you are elected to represent.

Moreover, immediately extending an invite to Moe to attend would have been the smarter political move when you think about it.

Besides avoiding all the drama, it would have sent a message that Moe was on board with at least part of the green agenda.

It’s something that Moe surely couldn’t deny because he is onboard.

No one has been talking more about rare earth minerals and mining lithium needed for batteries than Moe, who in December, went to Washington to promote that very thing.

Asked by reporters why Moe wasn’t extended an invitation, Trudeau offered the condescending and largely dishonest answer that he doubts the “Government of Saskatchewan sees the opportunities that companies, and indeed workers, see in cleaner jobs.”

One might criticize Moe and his Saskatchewan government for not doing enough about the high per capita rate of greenhouse gas emitted by this province. But it’s ludicrous to criticize Moe for not supporting any jobs in this province considered long-term and sustainable.

Really, it was a rather telling comment revealing to whom Trudeau was speaking — to the political audience that is his own base.

This stupidity and ensuing criticism was what likely forced the Prime Minister’s Office the next day to issue an apology for neglecting to send an invitation to Moe to the event.

But lest one thinks the problem here simply begins and ends with Trudeau, consider Moe’s approach in which seemed very much about relishing another fight with Trudeau.

No, Moe was not hurt that he didn’t get an invitation to spend time with Trudeau. But that might have been his only forthright admission in this whole silly affair that started when Moe, himself, issued tweets, Facebook posts, formal statements feigning his disappointment over not being invited before anyone even knew he wasn’t invited.

If he was truly disappointed in all this and was sincere about wanting to improve this relationship, Moe could have simply privately written or phoned the Prime Minister’s office expressing that this wasn’t helpful.

But it was far more politically advantageous for Moe to make a huge public fuss about this — especially given that, this time, he was largely in the right.

Since becoming Saskatchewan Party leader and Premier five years ago in which he warned Trudeau to “just watch me” take Ottawa on the carbon tax, it has been nothing but fighting with Ottawa.

Sometimes, the fighting has been more legitimate — what one would expect in federalprovincial relations.

But it’s been fighting usually instigated — and often for no good reason other than partisan purposes.

Fighting over something both sides agree on is surely fighting for no good reason.

This is a low.

Murray Mandryk has been covering provincial politics since 1983.

◆Editorial◆ Colleges must stay connected

It was reported several months ago that Cumberland College and Parkland College were moving toward a full merger and it has now been announced that effort will move forward taking effect July 1.

That the two colleges were interested in a merger wasn’t exactly surprising considering they have been operating as a coalition since 2019 through a shared CEO and Board of Governors.

A full merger would seem to have been a logical step at least from the perspective of those involved.

While the merger was a local initiated effort, it did need a stamp of approval from the province, and that was recently received.

That too was not surprising given this government’s obvious interest in amalgamating services, at least in some areas.

The most obvious effort by the province was to move to a single health board rather than a series of regional ones.

That effort should be saving the system millions of dollars though unified decisions that allow for province wide purchasing of supplies and services and broad-based recruiting efforts, although whether those savings have been realized isn’t exactly clear.

And, of course there is the other side of such efforts, the disconnect with local communities.

When there was still a regional health board for the local area there were directors the public knew, or at least had relative easy access to dis-

Welcome to ‘Wordy Wednesday’ brought to you by our friends at Yorkton Public Library, (including Slo the friendly sloth), and appearing here courtesy of Yorkton This Week.

Happy wordy Wednesday! Gelid is the word of the week, which means extremely cold or icy. Gelid first appeared in English late in the 16th century, coming to our language from Latin gelidus, which ultimately derives from the noun gelu, meaning "frost" or "cold." Two delicious words share the same origin: 1. Gelatin, jelly made with it! 2. Gelato, Italian style ice cream. Though it is Prairies gelid on top of the winter roof, the book makes me warm. Winter has a way of making us smile. Photo credit to YPL’s brilliant Board Chairperson, Lauretta Ritchie-McInnes.

cuss concerns with.

It’s highly likely if you went to a junior hockey game in Yorkton or Melville and randomly asked 100 fans to name someone on the provincial health board it is unlikely more than a few would know a name, and it is highly likely many might not know the entity exists.

In a world of increased connectedness in the case of health, the move to a single entity in terms of a health board has made it harder for local communities to connect with those making decisions.

While the college merger is far smaller in scale, remaining accessible to communities is important, and the entity starts out connecting communities that rarely have been. Humboldt and Yorkton are major communities in the new college region, two communities with very little natural connectedness.

Interim President and CEO, Alison Dubreuil, has noted that the merger will better position both colleges to serve their learners and communities through shared resources, increased partnership opportunities and the development of new programming.

That is of course crucial for the college to be relevant, but it is building a new entity among communities that have limited natural connections, and that must be realized moving forward so the new college can build a new community that is as effective as they hope and still has the capacity for local communities to connect to it.

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Pasqua First Nation Indigenous pro wrestler just made his AEW debut

By Mina Kerr-Lazenby, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter (North Shore News)

When Sebastian Wolfe gets into the ring, he has more than just winning a match in mind.

As a proud member of the Pasqua First Nation in Saskatchewan, the professional wrestler views the squared circle as a place to raise awareness of Indigenous history, culture and issues as much as one to wipe out competition.

Preceding most matches, Wolfe will make his entrance swathed in his nation’s flag, and his wrestling boots, adorned with red handprints on each side, are a small but mighty nod to his solidarity with missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls across North America.

“Being Indigenous is definitely something I am very proud of,” said the North Vancouver-born bruiser.

“It is important to me to try to help put a spotlight on my nation and our people in general across the country, and some of the issues we face.”

Just this month, those small crimson handprints were put in front of the eyes of thousands as Wolfe made his All Elite Wrestling debut — his first big milestone on what is no doubt expected to be a long and illustrious career.

In the wrestling world,

AEW sits high in the ranks, only beaten in size by American pro wrestling giant WWE. It has two national television shows that air every week on The Sports Network and a weekly Youtube series AEW Dark, which Wolfe appeared on during its Jan. 10 episode. Both are filmed in front of mass crowds and some of the industry’s most notable names.

“To get an opportunity like that on such a major stage, it was pretty surprising,” he said.

The match had been a Trios, a three-versusthree, against Matt Hardy — notorious WWE alumni and the nucleus to one of the industry’s greatest tag teams, The Hardy Boyz.

With Wolfe only waiting in the wings as an “extra” on that day, there had been no guarantee he would actually take to the ring, and so to be called up — in a match against one of his childhood idols no less — was a sweet, serendipitous moment, he said.

“[Hardy] is actually somebody I’ve been watching for over 25 years on TV, so to get a match with a company like this, in front of an audience like that, with somebody of that caliber, it was very surreal.”

Wolfe’s infatuation with the sport began in his preschool years when his Nana, babysitting from her home in Lower Lonsdale, would have WWE blaring from the small screen. It embed-

ded a seed that would continue to sprout as he moved with his family back to Saskatchewan shortly after, and again still when he returned to North Vancouver, attending Sutherland Secondary, over a decade later.

“She was a huge fan, I had no choice,” he laughed.

“I was just captured by it instantly, and as I grew older I kept loving it. I knew it was something I had to pursue.”

Still, Wolfe, now in Vancouver, began his wrestling career much

later than what would be expected for a man of his success. After dabbling in fitness instructing and various trades in his 20s, it wasn’t until an opportunity came up at the Lions Gate Dojo in Surrey, a training gym he credits as being “one of the best in the country,” that the ball truly began rolling.

The Cree wrestler had his first match in 2018. Now, just five years later and aged 33, he is being recognized by one of the industry’s largest promotions. While he is yet to be contracted by AEW,

the acknowledgement is enough of a career milestone in itself – one likely to set the tone for future opportunities to come.

“This is a foot in the door with the company. They know your name, they know who you are, and that’s what everybody wants to work towards.”

Wolfe said he hopes his recent feats are an example of what can be achieved with hard work and determination – especially for those within his own community. He is not oblivious to his mushrooming follow-

ing, he said, and hopes to harness that fame to influence and educate wherever possible.

“I’ve talked to my chief and friends and family, and I know that there are younger people who know me and follow me,” he said.

“That is definitely something that I’m proud of, and I don’t take it lightly. I just hope that as my name grows, and I get more exposure, the light can shine even brighter on certain issues and other kids can realize that this is just as possible for them.”

Campsite reservation dates announced

Reservations for Saskatchewan Provincial Parks 2023 camping season are set to begin April 3 for seasonal campsites and April 4 to 12 for nightly, Camp-Easy and group campsites.

“Many campers are already looking forward to setting up their home-away-from-home in provincial parks this summer,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said. “With reservation dates set, campers can now begin planning their trips and preparing for launch day.”

Schedule

The complete reservation schedule for 2023 is as follows:

Seasonal campsites:

• April 3: all parks participating in the seasonal camping program.

Nightly, Camp-Easy and group campsites:

• April 4: Candle Lake, Good Spirit Lake, Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan Landing

• April 5: Break

• April 6: Douglas, Echo Valley, Makwa Lake, Narrow Hills, Pike

Lake

• April 10:

Danielson, Great Blue Heron, Greenwater Lake, Rowan’s Ravine, The Battlefords

• April 11: Buffalo

Pound, Bronson Forest, Duck Mountain, Moose

Mountain

• April 12: Blackstrap, Crooked

Lake, Cypress Hills, Lac La Ronge.

Reservations will begin at 7 a.m. each day.

Park Fees

Park entry fees will increase slightly this year in response to the growing number of park services provided year-

round and in accordance with Provincial Sales Tax. The 2023 entry fees are as follows:

• Annual Vehicle

Entry: $82 ($7 increase)

• Weekly Vehicle

Entry: $42 ($2 increase)

• Daily Vehicle

Entry: $11 ($1 increase)

Camp-Easy sites will increase from $80 to $85 per night and the Mongolian Yurt at Great Blue Heron will increase from $110 to $116 per night. Some swimming entry and equipment rentals will also see a slight

increase. For a full listing of fee changes, visit http://saskparks.com. All other fees including nightly, seasonal and group camping will remain the same for the 2023 camping season. New this year, a notification feature on the reservation system will allow campers to sign up to receive an alert if a specific campsite becomes available.

Campers can also look forward to a total of 37 new seasonal sites: two full-service in Good Spirit Lake, eight electric in Buffalo Pound, a mix of 18 electric and non-electric in Makwa Lake, a mix of four electric and full-service at Meadow Lake and five electric at Moose Mountain. New CampEasy yurts have been added at Pike Lake, Good Spirit Lake and Greenwater Lake provincial parks with a new yurt replacing the old Camp-Easy tent in Crooked Lake. For more information on reservations, fees and new services, visit http://saskparks. com.

— Submitted

Province’s labour force well-positioned

Saskatchewan had 576,800 people employed in 2022, an increase of 18,600 or 3.3 per cent from 2021, the second largest percentage increase since records began in 1976.

The province is on track to reach its goal of 100,000 new jobs by the end of 2030.

“Saskatchewan’s economy and labour market have shown considerable strength and resilience to national and international economic headwinds thanks to significant private investments, low cost of living and one of the best business environments in the country,” Immigration

and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “As the province looks to the future, our government will ensure a stable and sustainable economy for both job seekers and job creators as we continue to reach our growth plan goals.”

The provincial labour market is more strongly engaged compared to other provinces, with the second highest labour force participation rate (proportion of the working age population participating in the labour force) at 67.2 per cent, and the second highest employment rate (proportion of the working-age popu-

lation that is employed) at 64.1 per cent. Saskatchewan’s unemployment rate also remains low at 4.6 per cent and is well below the national average of 5.3 per cent.

Full-time employment increased to 471,200 in 2022 with four per cent more people working in full time jobs compared to 2021.

Accommodation and food services increased 3,900, along with the information, culture, and recreation sector increasing 2,900. Regionally, the largest employment gains were in the Saskatoon, Regina and Yorkton-Melville areas.

Off-reserve Indigenous employment increased by 4,800 to an all-time high of 63,000, an increase of 8.2 per cent from 2021. Employment for off-reserve Indigenous youth (aged 15-24) also reached an all-time high of 11,500, up 1,500 or 15 per cent from 2021.

In 2022, Saskatchewan also recorded all-time highs in the working-age population aged 15 and older and female employment. Saskatchewan has seen strong growth in several other key economic indicators in recent months. The province has led the nation in October

2022 manufacturing sales, with a 7.4 per cent increase compared to the previous month. October 2022 also saw a nine per cent increase in retail trade, a 46.7 per cent jump in wholesale trade, and a 39.3 per cent increase in building construction, compared to October 2021. Just recently, Saskatchewan’s merchandise exports increased by 44.5 per cent to more than $5 billion in November 2022 when compared to 2021 - the second highest increase among provinces.

Sebastian Wolfe made his AEW debut on Jan. 10, during an episode of Youtube series AEW Dark. Submitted

January 25 - January 31, 2023

Next Council Meeting

Monday, January 30, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

Request for Proposals

Name of Proposal: Deer Park Golf Course Food and Beverage

Proposal must be received before 4:00 p.m. on February 3, 2023

Proposals will be received online at www.biddingo.com/yorkton

Details of Proposal:

The City of Yorkton Recreation and Community Services Department is soliciting proposals from experienced and capable parties interested in being the first food and beverage operator at the newly built Deer Park Clubhouse, which is scheduled to open for the 2023 golf season.

Specifications are available:

Online at www.biddingo.com/yorkton

Proposals shall remain open for acceptance by the City and irrevocable for thirty (30) calendar days following the date specified for closing.

Proposals received after the date and time specified for closing will be marked late and returned unopened.

Contact Person

Enquiries regarding the proposal procedure and particulars can be directed to:

Darcy McLeod, Director

Recreation and Community Services City of Yorkton

Phone: 306-786-1750

Email: parksandrec@yorkton.ca

The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Lowest or any proposal not necessarily accepted.

Invitation to Tender

Tender documents are available at; https://www.biddingo.com/yorkton

Contact: Jeff Fawcett Email: jfawcett@yorkton.ca

The City reserves the right to reject any or all tenders. Lowest tender is not necessarily accepted. The City of Yorkton exclusively uses www.yorkton.ca and www.SaskTenders.ca to electronically advertise procurements. Other sites may not accurately represent the data as intended by the City of Yorkton, and are not vetted by the City of Yorkton.

GENERAL INQUIRIES: 306-786-1700

Mayor’s Office............................306-786-1701

After Hours Emergency..............306-786-1760

Access Communication Water Park.................................306-786-1740

Yorkton Airport............................306-786-1730

Building Services........................306-786-1710

Bylaw Control.............................306-786-1725

Central Bookings; Indoor & Outdoor

Facility Rentals...........................306-786-1740

City Clerk....................................306-786-1717

City Cemetery.............................306-786-1750

City Manager..............................306-786-1703

City RCMP..................................306-786-2400

Engineering Department............306-786-1710

Environmental Services.............306-828-2470

Fire Hall.....................................306-786-1795

Gallagher Centre........................306-786-1740

Gloria Hayden

Community Centre.....................306-786-1750

Parks, Playgrounds, trees,

Outdoor Spaces.........................306-786-1750

Program Registrations...............306-786-1740

Property Sales............................306-786-1730

Public Works..............................306-786-1760

Recreation & Community Service.......................................306-786-1750

Tax Department..........................306-786-1736

Water Billing Department...........306-786-1726

January 25 - January 31, 2023

Next Council Meeting

Monday, January 30, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

GENERAL INQUIRIES: 306-786-1700

Mayor’s Office............................306-786-1701

After Hours Emergency..............306-786-1760

Access Communication

Water Park.................................306-786-1740

Yorkton Airport............................306-786-1730

Building Services........................306-786-1710

Bylaw Control.............................306-786-1725

Central Bookings; Indoor & Outdoor Facility Rentals...........................306-786-1740

City Clerk....................................306-786-1717

City Cemetery.............................306-786-1750

City Manager..............................306-786-1703

City RCMP..................................306-786-2400

Engineering Department............306-786-1710

Environmental Services.............306-828-2470

Fire Hall.....................................306-786-1795

Gallagher Centre........................306-786-1740

Gloria Hayden Community Centre.....................306-786-1750

Parks, Playgrounds, trees,

Outdoor Spaces.........................306-786-1750

Program Registrations...............306-786-1740

Property Sales............................306-786-1730

Public Works..............................306-786-1760

Recreation & Community Service.......................................306-786-1750

Tax Department..........................306-786-1736

Water Billing Department...........306-786-1726

January 25 - January 31, 2023

Next Council Meeting

Monday, January 30, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

GENERAL INQUIRIES: 306-786-1700

Mayor’s Office............................306-786-1701

After Hours Emergency..............306-786-1760

Access Communication

Water Park.................................306-786-1740

Yorkton Airport............................306-786-1730

Building Services........................306-786-1710

Bylaw Control.............................306-786-1725

Central Bookings; Indoor & Outdoor

Facility Rentals...........................306-786-1740

City Clerk....................................306-786-1717

City Cemetery.............................306-786-1750

City Manager..............................306-786-1703

City RCMP..................................306-786-2400

Engineering Department............306-786-1710

Environmental Services.............306-828-2470

Fire Hall.....................................306-786-1795

Gallagher Centre........................306-786-1740

Gloria Hayden Community Centre.....................306-786-1750

Parks, Playgrounds, trees,

Outdoor Spaces.........................306-786-1750

Program Registrations...............306-786-1740

Property Sales............................306-786-1730

Public Works..............................306-786-1760

Recreation & Community Service.......................................306-786-1750

Tax Department..........................306-786-1736

Water Billing Department...........306-786-1726

Public ag research dollars remain critical

January is typically the time of year where the money the federal and provincial governments will invest in agriculture research are announced meaning there are usually lots of media releases bouncing around detailing the allotments.

The money, in the grand scheme of things, is not massive. We do live in a time when top pro baseball players are signing deals worth around $30 million a year. By contrast the University of Saskatchewan was recently awarded $14 million to support innovative crop research.

The $14 mil -

lion came through the Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF), with $7.2 million of the funds allocated to operating the Crop Development Centre (CDC) for the next five years. Now yes baseball is a private business, and government is spending taxpayer dollars, so the comparison is not straight apples to apples, but it does put into context just a little the investment level for ag research.

And, it is rather easy to argue that ag research is rather important given our world’s growing population, and that it is the ag sector which

Calvin Daniels

keeps all of us fed.

Add to that rather obvious level of ag sector importance the growing issues it faces – reduced arable acres, climate change, and concerns over some long-standing farm practices – and it’s easy to see how research will be needed to cope with change moving forward.

The question, beyond

whether the level of government financial support for research is enough, is what that research should be targeting?

It has always been pretty straight forward in terms of research, find ways to increase yields – whether bushels per acre, or pounds per calf weaned.

For crop research

that has generally meant plant breeding to develop varieties which yield better, research that can of course mean better drought or disease resistance and other traits associated with boosting yields.

But moving forward it is rather clear a guiding principle will be research focused on sustainability, which resonates with the public, and of course is a key to having food production in the future.

That said it shouldn’t be lost that most farmers have always been concerned with ensuring the farm would be viable for the next generation when balanced against the need to be

financially viable today. The bank needs to be paid or the farm is lost to someone else.

Of course the other side of the sustainability question is back to issues such as growing crops as weather patterns change, moisture conditions alter and so other environmental changes related only partially to farming operations themselves.

Moving forward that ag research is likely to be essential, and potentially far sooner than we like to think.

Then we will need to circle back to the question if public investment is sufficient? The most likely answer will be that it is not.

Recently, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced $700,000 in funding to support swine disease mitigation efforts. Sask Pork will also be providing $300,000 toward a swine market disruption plan, which will help industry respond to potential market closures due to an animal health emergency event such as African swine fever.

“Mitigation of, preparedness for, and response to animal diseases are all critical factors in supporting the Saskatchewan swine industry,” Marit said. “This funding will support a healthy hog sector

By Miranda Leybourne, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter (Brandon Sun)

On a mission to strengthen Manitoba’s agricultural industry, the province is investing $10 million in the development of Assiniboine Community College’s Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture.

Delivering the news

and protect hog producers and abattoirs during potential market disrup-

tions.” The funding will support the creation of a cull

line at the sow processing facility Donald’s Fine Foods is constructing in

Moose Jaw. This would allow for humane slaughter of domestic hogs if a serious swine disease outbreak ever temporarily stopped trade.

“The pork industry has been working diligently on both prevention, such as biosecurity improvements, and preparedness, so infrastructure is in place to respond if African swine fever were to enter the country,” Sask Pork Board Chair Toby Tschetter said. “We appreciate the collaboration with the provincial government and industry that made today’s announcement possible.”

“Ensuring Saskatchewan’s pork

industry is positioned to respond to a potential market disruption and safeguard animal welfare is key to the continued success of the sector,” North 49 Foods CEO Allan Leung said. “We are pleased to play a role in this important plan.” African swine fever (ASF) is a viral disease that only impacts pigs. To date, ASF has never been detected in Canada. The public can reduce the risk of ASF infection in Saskatchewan pigs by declaring all animal and food products, as well as out-of-country farm visits at the border, when entering Canada, to prevent the spread of foreign animal diseases.

$1 million for swine disease preparedness Man. puts $10M into Prairie Innovation Centre

at Manitoba Ag Days on Tuesday, Premier Heather Stefanson called farmers the “backbone of the province,” and said her government is committed to growing Manitoba’s economy through partnerships with post-secondary institutions and industry leaders.

“We know there is a real need in our agriculture sector, where projections show one in five

jobs could go unfulfilled by 2029,” she said.

“Right here in Brandon, Assiniboine Community College is offering a solution.”

ACC has campaigned for the Prairie Innovation Centre since 2019 and has raised more than $16.5 million in private industry support.

The province’s $10-million contribution will support the initial planning phases

of the centre, including exploration of facilities and land development.

Assessment of the proposed educational programs and associated supporting infrastructure is slated to begin early this year.

The facility will be “huge” for the future of Manitoba and agriculture alike, Stefanson said. She commended Assiniboine and its leadership for spearheading the project.

According to ACC president Mark Frison, the province’s contribu-

tion is a significant step forward for the college to support new programs for labour market development, applied research and industry engagement in the agriculture, environment and processing sectors.

“It’s great to see Premier Stefanson and the Manitoba government respond in such a significant way … to assist the college in moving this project forward to the next stage of development,” he said.

Derrick Turner, Assiniboine’s direc-

tor of advancement and external relations, has previously said the centre’s main goal is about increasing employment in the agricultural sector, for which there is currently a huge need.

“We’re creating an expanding list of programs that we already have, but also new programs for businesses that are actually out there right now needing these types of people,” Turner said. “We’re creating programs like chemical technology and food processing.”

Man. farmers seek changes to Crown land program

By Miranda Leybourne, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter (Brandon Sun)

As the Manitoba government prepares to auction off agricultural Crown land to farmers next month, some unsatisfied producers are advocating for changes to lease and permit conditions.

Leases and permits that provide access to additional land base for agricultural purposes are put up for auction by the province every year.

This year several properties will be available to rent for haying, grazing or cropping.

While the province introduced a temporary rent reduction for forage leases on agricultural Crown lands last fall, some producers are still unsatisfied with current lease conditions.

Lease terms can vary from five to 21 years long, depending on the type, according to the province. But Matthew Atkinson, vice-president of Manitoba Beef Producers and a director

of the Canadian Cattle Association, said that’s not enough time to modify the landscape to suit the farmer.

“Fifteen years seems like a lot of time but in the ag world, it’s not,” Atkinson said. “If I’m looking at a parcel of land … and I’m to rebuild fences and create water systems, or rebuild existing ones, it’s hard to fully recognize the value.”

Many producers will shy away from bidding on Crown land that returns

Continued on Page

Photo courtecy of Lisa Landrie

SENIORS

Our Monthly Feature

...For Seniors and about Seniors

Duo has been playing tunes for decades

By Calvin Daniels Staff Writer

If you go out to hear live music in Yorkton, it’s highly likely you have heard The Reflections.

The duo of Ray Sedley (guitar and vocals) and Norm Sharp (vocal harmony and keyboard) have played together in the current incarnation of their musical endeavours for nearly a decade now, but their connection goes back years longer, and they have been musicians for longer still.

Sedley, 73, began in his youth in London, Ont. starting out in a folk trio when he was about 15.

Encouraged by a teacher (Mr.

Knickerbocker), they began practising in a classroom.

“We started out playing (Bob) Dylan, Donovan and Gordon Lightfoot,” explained Sedley during a recent interview at his kitchen table.

They sounded good enough the teacher entered them in the novice division of a competition at a major local folk festival.

“We stepped out on stage and there were 1000, 1,500 folk aficionados,” said Sedley, adding the trio was scared to death, but managed to get through their three songs, and winning second place.

“And we were the

only group in novice class to get a booking,” he said, adding they were hired to play for the kids of members at a country club, which wasn’t a huge success because folk was not what kids were dancing to back then.

While folk wouldn’t hold Sedley’s interest too long either, music did.

And when he moved to Yorkton in 1976 he packed his guitar and love of music and brought those with him.

As the old saying goes, birds of a feather do tend to flock together, and so it is with musicians, and Sedley and Sharp, who grew up in the Willowbrook area, would soon cross paths.

“We had different bands,” recalled Sedley, adding eventually they ended up on a common roster, playing together for seven or eight years in the 1990s, as the Lonestar Boys and later as Chevy & the Twisters.

Of course back then there was a vibrant live music culture in the city with bands regularly playing gigs at venues such as Ragadas, Yorkton Hotel, Corona Hotel, and Holiday Inn.

In fact, Sedley noted he has played at the City Limit Inn for five decades.

Live music was once the entertainment choice for many, with hotels in small towns hosting bands, said Sedley, adding at one time a lounge could only offer music if it was live.

Then that changed,

DJs became more popular as a lower cost option, then liquor laws became more stringent, and live music declined massively, he added.

When Sharp retired it was only a matter of time, and very little of it, before the phone rang. It was Sedley who had been performing solo suggesting they hook up as a duo.

Sharp, 70, recalled being quick to say yes, and the duo has been as busy as they’ve generally wanted to be since.

They regularly play for residents at the Yorkton Nursing Home, and at venues such as Rhythm n Ribs, the Sidewalk Concerts held by the Yorkton Arts Council through COVID times, at the mini golf at Good Spirit and YBID events.

While noting they tend to play for a more mature audience, they also said they play what they want too.

“We get to choose our music . . . We’re all over the board, from the ‘40s to 2015-16,” said Sedley.

“We like lots of different genres,” added Sharp. “We both love the music of songwriters (who sing their own material). We pick up a lot of songs by songwriters.”

In fact, they even have Adele’s ‘Make You Feel My Love’.

Occasionally they do get requests they would rather avoid.

Sharp recalled a request for an Alabama song, admitting they weren’t fans of the country band. So they announced they would be doing ‘Magnolia’ a cut off an upcoming Alabama recording. The song, which was actually a Sedley original, drew lots of applause.

Not surprisingly they also gravitate toward music performed by duos’; Simon and Garfunkel, the Everly Brothers, and Chad & Jeremy.

The tandem say they probably know a couple of hundred songs they could play in a pinch.

“We ‘ve trimmed down a bunch,” said Sedley adding it had gotten to the point their set book was so thick “we were having trouble closing it on stage.”

So do they have favourite songs?

Both struggled for an answer.

“I like Crazy,” Sedley finally answered.

“That’s one of my favourites,” echoed Sharp immediately.

Sedley then mentioned Bob Wills’ Faded Love, a name many might not recognize but a hit in its day (1950), and later covered by the likes of Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley and Willie Nelson.

“Most of our stuff were million sellers at some point,” said Sharp.

So how do you tackle hits through the decades, that many listeners can sing along too?

“We don’t try to copy. They seem to like us,” said Sharp.

Sedley added they are at that point they perform without fear, simply doing their thing and knowing from experience many will appreciate it.

The duo of Ray Sedley (guitar and vocals) and Norm Sharp (vocal harmony and keyboard) have played together for years.

4 tips for eating well as you get older

Food occupies an essential place in your daily life, regardless of age. As you get older, changes in your body make it more important than ever to get the necessary nutrients. Here are some proven tips to help you ensure your body gets what it needs.

1. Drink regularly The sensation of thirst diminishes with age. Therefore, keeping yourself well hydrated at all times is critical. Frequent small sips can help. In addition, consuming soups and fluid-rich foods like cucumber and melon, can quench your thirst while aiding digestion.

2. Enjoy your meal in good company When you eat with friends and loved ones, you consume more and enjoy your food more fully. Social interactions make mealtime more exciting. This sense of pleasure can help you consume more of the nutri-

ents your body needs.

3. Eat at regular times

As much as possible, establish set hours for eating your three daily meals and try to resist any loss of appetite. If your portions are on the small side, have a few healthy snacks between meals.

4. Enhance your meals

Improve the flavour of your food by experimenting with herbs and spices. You’ll give your tastebuds a treat and learn to appreciate new aromas. Be careful with meals that are very fatty, salty or sweet. Eating well gives you more energy, reduces your risk of injury and helps you preserve your autonomy and maintain good general health. To ensure you’re getting the food you need, visit a seniors’ community centre, try out a food delivery service or ask your loved ones for help. Do whatever it takes to make your mealtimes simple and enjoyable.

Common digestive problems in seniors

Getting older sometimes comes with an increase in health issues, or at least an increased risk of developing them. Digestive illnesses and disorders are among the most unpleasant ones. Here are four of the most common.

1. Constipation. Moving food through your body involves a series of rhythmic muscular contractions. With age, these processes can become less efficient, making it difficult for you to pass stool.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease. While gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can occur at any age, it’s more common in older adults. GERD may cause a burning sensation, sore throat, coughing, bitter regurgitation and bad breath.

3. Functional dyspepsia. This

chronic condition is quite common in the general population and has no known cause. It’s characterized primarily by pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea and belching.

4. Colorectal cancer. This serious illness affects about five per cent of the population. It poses a higher risk in older adults who have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Regular screening makes it possible to diagnose the disease early and treat it effectively. Even if your chances of getting digestive issues increase with age, you can mitigate the risk with healthy lifestyle habits and a balanced diet. Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns about your health.

AUDIOBOOKS Rediscover the pleasure of storytelling

Have you always loved reading but now find it difficult to see the words on the page? Do you find it hard to hold heavy books? Regardless of whether your reading ability has diminished, you can still experience the magic of audiobooks.

WHAT’S AN AUDIOBOOK?

An audiobook is a publication — be it a crime novel, fantasy series or biography — recorded in an audible

medium. The reader may be a volun teer, celebrity, professional reader or the book’s author. Your listening experience may be enhanced by the intonations in the reader’s voice or whether the recording includes sound effects.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The audiobook may be in the form of a digital file or a compact disk. If it’s a digital

file, you may need to download it to a device to enjoy it. A simple internet connection may work as well.

HOW DO YOU LISTEN TO AN AUDIOBOOK? If the audiobook is on a compact disk, simply insert it directly into an appropriate reader and press play. For a digital file, it may take a few steps to listen online or via an app downloaded to your tablet or smartphone.

WHERE DO YOU GET THEM?

Digital audiobooks are available on several online platforms, like online libraries or e-reader businesses. You can get compact disks from your local library. A library is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. Whatever format you select, make sure you choose one compatible with your device. Happy listening!

What’s dysphagia

phagia can range from mild to severe and in some cases make swallowing virtually impossible. Additionally, the inability to eat can have significant implications including unhealthy weight loss and malnutrition. Breathing problems may also arise.

CAUSES

Dysphagia can be caused by various health conditions such

as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), dementia, stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS) and lung or throat cancer. Difficulty swallowing may also occur temporarily in people who suffer from pharyngitis.

SOLUTIONS

There are products available that can make mealtimes safer for people with dysphagia. In particular,

some companies offer foods that are a suitable consistency for easy swallowing. Plus, specialized glasses, spoons and straws can be purchased to assist with swallowing.

Various exercises

and medications may also be prescribed to treat dysphagia. If you’re having trouble swallowing, consult your doctor to identify the cause of the problem and find a solution.

Dysphagia is a health condition that affects many seniors. Here’s what you should know about it.

SYMPTOMS

People with dysphagia have difficulty swallowing. This may lead to:

• Gagging

• Choking when trying to swallow

• Feeling like something is stuck in the throat

• Excessive salivation

• Pain

The symptoms of dys-

Transferring your prescription is easy.*

Simply

Terriers top Mustangs in OT

By Calvin Daniels Staff Writer

The Melfort Mustangs had a dream start in SJHL action in Yorkton

Saturday.

The visiting ‘Stangs took a 1-0 lead over the host Yorkton Terriers on their first shot of the night, only 39 seconds into the game. Leyton Holoien scored the goal.

The Terriers however responded quickly with Brett Buts evening things at 2:36.

And, that would be it for scoring in the first stanza as the defences stiffened in a period where each team managed 10 shots.

Melfort would change goaltenders after 20-minutes, with James Venne in for starter Joel Favreau. Venne and Terrier netminder Tysen Smith would remain stingy with neither allowing a goal in the middle frame.

Dylan Ruptash would give the home side its first lead of the game

scoring 6:08 into the third to make it 2-1. But, a powerplay effort by Melfort’s Kevin Minnoch tied the game 2-2 at 10:05.

The game would remain knotted through the remainder of regulation time pushing the teams to a five-minute, three-on-three extra

frame. The added time proved nothing, leaving the final decision to be decided in a shootout, where the Terriers

would emerge with the victory. Favreau and Venne combined to 30-of-32 shots, while Yorkton’s Smith faced 27-shots.

The Terriers next action is set for Tuesday in Nipawin, with Battlefords at the Westland Insurance Arena in Yorkton Friday.

Sea Bears coach ready for CEBL expansion challenges

If you are a sports fan in Saskatchewan hopefully you have began following the CEBL Rattlers.

The Rattlers and CEBL offer up a really entertaining brand of basketball which, much like our beloved CFL, give a lot of Canadian players a place to ply their trade.

This year is particularly exciting for Prairie basketball fans with the CEBL transferring a franchise to Calgary and adding an expansion team in Winnipeg which essentially puts the CEBL in all four Prairie CFL cities. (They are in Vancouver too so the west division of CEBL mirrors the CFL).

Certainly, the rivalry our Roughriders have with the dreaded Winnipeg Blue Bombers is legendary – cue the

banjo music. Now we have the Winnipeg Sea Bears –the name traces its roots to Manitoba’s northern polar bears – ready to launch and should quickly form a rivalry with the Rattlers.

At least Sea Bear head coach and general manager Mike Taylor expects that to be the case.

“I think it’s fantastic for sports fans,” he said, adding there is the precedence of the CFL rivalry that should transfer to fans of the CEBL easily.

In that regard Taylor said the CEBL has made developmental strides headed toward the 2023 season.

“I really like the direction of the CEBL,” he said, pointing to the Sea Bears and Calgary Surge as teams in major Canadian cities, creating

a western division. “. . . There’s a lot to be excited about. A lot to build on.”

In general terms Taylor said it’s a big step for Winnipeg and for him as coach.

“I’m really excited about it. I love the CEBL,” he said, adding he grew to appreciate the league as head coach with the Fraser Valley (now Vancouver) Bandits.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge in Winnipeg.”

Taylor has a long resume, which includes

coaching the Polish national team from 2014 to 2021, bringing their world ranking up from #42 to #13. He also led the team to a top eight finish at the World Cup in China in 2019 and three EuroBasket appearances in 2015, 2017 and 2022.

Taylor also left his mark on the German basketball scene, coaching 11 seasons and leading three organizations to promotion (Hamburg Towers, Ratiopharm Ulm and Niners Chemnitz (formerly Chemnitz

2022/23 UPCOMING HOME GAMES

99ers). Prior to this, he led the Maine Celtics (formerly Maine Red Claws) of the NBA’s G League to the organization’s first playoff appearance and coached the league’s allstar game in 2013.

Taylor is currently acting as associate head coach with the 2022 CEBL Champion Honey Badgers, who are representing Canada in the FIBA Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA).

Taylor said having coached in many situations will help him in his role with the fledgling Sea Bears.

“The experience is something I’ll really rely on,” he offered.

One thing Taylor does expect is that the Sea Bears will find fans in the Manitoba city.

“I think it’s (Winnipeg) a great city for sports,” he said, pointing to the Bombers, NHL Jets and independent baseball’s Goldeyes. “. . . We want to add into that culture with basketball . . . And, there’s a lot of interest in the Sea Bears.”

That interest extends beyond fans to Manitoba players too.

Taylor said the team is certainly hoping to attract players with a connection to the city and province as a

way to build connections and community.

“We want to build a team connected with the city,” he offered.

That said, he added a player’s address is not enough to be on the team of course, as he will need players of character and skill to put a competitive team on the court – but Canadian talent has to be part of the mix.

“We all understand how competitive the CEBL is,” he said.

Of course building a team is part of the challenge Taylor faces.

“We’ve got a blank page,” he said, adding when starting from square one bringing in players with the right character to build the right chemistry will be a huge part of what he must do.

As for the style of player Taylor will look for, he said the CEBL is a league where players “really try to attack the basket and score.”

With that in mind players such as the Rattlers’ six-foot-five guard Tony Carr and six-foot-eight Scottie Lindsey are sort of prototypical of what the CEBL is all about.

The CEBL season is expected to kick-off in May but the schedule has not yet been released.

Mike Taylor

The Yorkton Terriers needed extra time but managed a win over visiting Melfort Saturday.

Photo Courtesy Mike Taylor

Medicine Hat College Takes You From Classroom to Career

Written by the Medicine Hat College

Saskatchewan highways and high schools are a familiar sight for Landon Heilman. As the student recruitment coordinator for Medicine Hat College (MHC) he’s travelled extensively throughout the province over the years, meeting with students and high school counsellors and sharing all that MHC has to offer.

As a comprehensive community college in sunny Southeast Alberta, MHC is focused on unique student pathways and programs that help learners reach their educational goals. From certificates, diplomas and degrees to university studies and apprenticeship training in the areas of health care, community services, business, education, science, arts, trades and technology, there really is something for everyone.

• Consider a rewarding career as a health care aide, improving the lives of

those in hospital or living in a care facility or pursue degree options in nursing or paramedicine and benefit from access to state-of-theart simulation training.

• Gain hands-on training through a wide variety of apprenticeship programs including automotive service and welding, or build sought after skills as an information or engineering technologist.

• Expand your business acumen and specialize in accounting, administration, marketing, management or financial services, or explore exciting new specialty programs in Sport & Event Marketing and Management, Sustainable Innovation, or Service Dog and Canine Management Studies.

• Become a teacher in our collaborative Bachelor of Education program, discover your creative side with an applied degree in art and design, or start your education with a variety of university studies programs in arts and sciences that build a

solid foundation for degree completion elsewhere.

Small class sizes across our programs create more opportunities to engage and build relationships; while work integrated learning provides real world experiences. Flexible delivery options help students balance school and life. Dedicated faculty and staff know you by name.

From application to graduation, MHC strives to be a leader in student support by offering exceptional services and a personalized approach that builds confidence and trust. Academic advising and coaching, writing support, personal counselling, accessibility services, tutoring, and career services are all available to MHC students, while a brand new fitness centre and Indigenous gathering space provide opportunities for health, wellness and cultural growth.

Speaking from experience as a former student in MHC’s School of Business, Heilman is passionate about

supporting future students on their own path to postsecondary.

“The best part about being a student recruiter at MHC is the opportunity to have a meaningful impact in people’s lives. Being a source of encouragement for someone to take the first step in achieving their educational goals, and then getting to see them walk across the stage during graduation, is my favorite part about my job.”

With all the amenities of a larger centre plus the feel of a small town, there’s lots to love about “The Hat.” Enjoy the natural beauty of the region with the city’s extensive trail system, parks and golf courses, and easy access to Cypress Hills Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands. Medicine Hat also boasts a vibrant arts and entertainment scene featuring exceptional musical talent, sporting events and festivals, and unique local coffee shops, pubs, and retail stores.

Join us for Open House on Saturday, March 4 and

Learn Where You Live With USask Nursing

Written by the University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) top nursing student for 2022 may have never entered the nursing program if it wasn’t for the chance to learn close to home.

Taylor Fulawka is from Yorkton, and along with 14 classmates, together they pursued a nursing education in Yorkton. The supportive environment where it was possible to live at home rent free and concentrate on studying was a major contributing factor to not just graduating, but excelling. Taylor was awarded the W. S Lindsay Gold Medal in Nursing and the University Prize in

Nursing; the top academic nursing awards at USask.

Taylor says finances were a significant concern and the cost of relocating to a major centre was simply not possible. The College of Nursing’s Learn Where You Live model removes these barriers for approximately 450 nursing students in communities throughout Saskatchewan each year, as these students reside outside of Saskatoon, where the main USask campus is located. Taylor says many people in Yorkton would not complete the nursing program if they had to leave the community.

Passing the National Council Licensure Examination in fall 2022, Taylor is now working as a

registered nurse at Yorkton Regional Health Centre.

Taylor’s story highlights why USask’s College of Nursing has taken steps to ensure nursing education is offered throughout the province.

Smaller centres face special challenges in recruiting and retaining health-care professionals.

The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven successful in establishing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in rural and northern communities.

Since the first nursing students entered the BSN program at distributed sites in La Ronge and Ile-a-la-Crosse in 2012, 65 students have completed

their program in northern Saskatchewan.

Since the program began in Yorkton in 2014, 63 students have completed their BSN.

When nursing students complete their degree in rural and northern communities, most graduates stay and practice there. Saskatchewan’s rural and northern communities need nurses, who are familiar with the culture, the people, and the rural and remote way of life.

The need for registered nurses has never been greater. Over the next three years, USask is taking responsive steps to expand access to nursing education in the north-

ern and rural regions of Saskatchewan.

By adding additional seats to nursing sites beyond Saskatoon, communities will be able to take advantage of USask’s distributed nursing education infrastructure and strengths in rural, remote, and Indigenous nursing education.

Taylor has seen health centres in smaller communities around Yorkton close, in part due to staffing shortages. Taylor believes nurses educated in Yorkton and similar centres will be more willing to work in rural settings because they are already from a smaller community.

Taylor felt called to the profession of nursing when Taylor’s grandmother, who used to share stories about practicing as a young nursing aid, was in the hospital, and Taylor saw first-hand how care was provided with kindness and support.

Our province and the world needs nurses like Taylor, who are smart, talented, and want to be there for others in a time of need.

USask’s College of Nursing is making this possible for students, no matter where they live in Saskatchewan.

For more information about USask nursing programs, please visit nursing. usask.ca.

Planning to attend the University of Saskatchewan? St. Thomas More College(STM) offers you an engaging learning environment - small class sizes with award-winning faculty, located within the USask campus. Choose from classes offered in 19 subject areas. STM classes are applied to your Usask degree.

Additional programming distinct to STM:

• Minor in Critical Perspectives on Social Justice and the Common Good

• Certificate in Catholic Studies

• Certificate in Ukrainian Studies

• Certificate in Peace Studies

• Certificate in Religious Literacy

• Certificate in Jewish and Christian Origins Check

Over $230,000 in additional scholarships & bursaries available!

For more information please call our Academic Advisors 306-966-8900 or 1(800)-667-2019

University of Saskatchewan Nursing Graduate Taylor Fulawka (BSN’22) at Spring Convocation.

Photo submitted by University of Saskatchewan.

CN worker rescues kittens frozen to the ice in Humboldt, Sask. railway shack

By Julia Peterson, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter (Humboldt Journal)

On New Year’s Day, a CN Railway worker in Humboldt found an unexpected surprise: someone had left a little orange kitten in one of the railroad’s warm-up shacks.

He had been left with a bowl of food, but nothing else. And with temperatures in the -20 Cs, his paws had frozen to the ice. The worker had to chip him out, and found a local family to look after him.

On social media, Kristie Mino has been posting stories and pictures with her new kitten — her family named him Milo — and sharing her appreciation for the quick rescue.

“He is doing very well,” said Mino. “I am so grateful to the CN worker for finding him when he did, because the outcome of how he is doing would have been significantly different. It pains me that anyone would do this to these little cuties, or any animal.”

But the next day, when the worker came back

to the shack, he heard crying. He went in and found another kitten in the snow, badly frostbitten and in need of medical care.

After chipping the little gray cat out of the ice, he took her to the Humboldt and District SPCA.

They named her Doodlebug, for her happy, loveable person-

MANITOBA

Continued from Page A9 to an open auction format after the lease expires, he said. Atkinson isn’t opposed to a renewal format, but he’d like to see longer leases with the ability to renew without the land going to auction.

“If I invest in a lot of improvements, I’ve … potentially increased the auction value in 15 years, so it makes me less likely to stand a chance to get [the land] next time.”

Bill Campbell, president of Keystone Agricultural Producers, agreed with Atkinson,

adding another challenge with the program is being unable to view the land before it’s covered by snow.

The province recommends viewing the land online using Google Maps or on the Manitoba Agriculture website. Manitoba recently surveyed farmers about changes concerning the Crown lands program. Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson said the province is taking producers’ concerns and recommendations seriously. However, to implement

ality.

Shelter staff member Kassidy Remenda, who stepped up to foster Doodlebug, said the kitten has a long road ahead of her.

“One of her legs got really bad frostbite from being stuck to the ice for so long, because she was placed right on the bare snow,” Remenda said. “We were trying to treat

such changes is not so easy, he said.

For example, allowing producers to have enough time to look at Crown lands before the snow flies would mean lease payments on lands would be due earlier — something that would not be easy for many producers, Johnson said.

“Everybody would have to pay their bills just past Halloween. Not all producers have shipped all their animals at that point, so to write a big cheque at that point is tough as well,” the

the leg, but unfortunately we weren’t able to save it.”

Soon, they realized they would have to amputate.

“She is doing amazing” since the surgery, Remenda said. “I’m quite surprised. She’s only about five weeks old, so it’s like she never had a leg there.”

Remenda said she

minister said. Last fall, the Manitoba government responded to farmers’ concerns about rent, which is determined by the average price of beef and the forage capacity of the land, with a price reduction.

As the Sun previously reported, temporary rent reductions are in place for the next three years with a 50 per cent reduction in 2023, 33 per cent in 2024, and 15 per cent in 2025.

The temporary rent reduction will allow land

can’t imagine why someone would abandon kittens outdoors in harsh winter conditions. She wonders if putting them in the unheated railway shack might have been a deeply misguided attempt to keep them safe — the shack is more sheltered than the open street — but there is no way to know for sure.

“I don’t know why they

productivity to recover from multiple years of extreme moisture, Johnson said.

However, Atkinson told the Sun last November that even with the rent reductions, prices on Crown lands are unsustainable.

For more information on the Agricultural Crown Lands Leasing Program, including eligibility and fees, visit the Manitoba Agriculture website.

This year’s auctions will take place online Feb. 6-10.

didn’t even put the kittens in a box, or something, if they were trying to keep them out of the elements,” she said. “We are all not very happy about it. We can’t believe how anyone would do that to something so small.”

Remenda said the shelter is seeing more and more people looking to re-home their pets this winter.

Some were COVID animals, adopted when people were working from home. In other cases, families simply can’t afford to keep them anymore, she said.

“With the increases in costs, I’ve heard a lot of people saying they can’t afford it. They can’t buy dog food, and things like that.”

There are always better options than leaving an animal out in the cold if you can’t take care of it anymore, she added.

The Humboldt and District SPCA encourages people to try to rehome the animal themselves, or take it to the shelter. If the local SPCA is full, they will send people to the surrounding shelters, Remenda said.

Matthew Atkinson, vicepresident of Manitoba Beef Producers, says challenges currently facing producers who forage on Crown land include lease terms that are too short to benefit a farm’s bottom line.

Health, Mind & Body $100

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What you need to know about anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are medications used to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, pulmonary embolism and other conditions. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been prescribed a blood thinner.

• Take blood thinners as instructed. Blood thinners are usually prescribed for at least three to six months. It’s important to follow your treatment plan to ensure its effectiveness. If in doubt, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

• Follow all recommendations. This includes how often you take your blood thinners and visit your doctor for follow-ups. Failing to follow the guidance of your health care providers can affect your treatment’s effectiveness.

• Beware of bleeding. Anticoagulants thin the blood, increasing the severity of bleeding, especially if you’re injured. Familiarize yourself with the signs of internal bleeding and inform your health care providers of your treatment plan. If you have any issues, call 911 right away.

• Watch what substances you consume. Many over-the-counter medica-

tions, natural health products and foods can counteract the effects of your treatment. Ask your pharmacist for advice before buying a new drug, and keep a list of foods and beverages to avoid.

If you have questions about taking blood thinners, contact a health care professional in your area.

Five-week-old kittens Milo (left) and Doodlebug (right) were rescued from a CN Railway shack near Humboldt in early January 2023. Photo courtesy Humboldt & District SPCA

Submitted photo

Obituaries Obituaries

YAREMKO - The family of the Late Victoria “Vicky” Yaremko (nee Ramsay) sadly announce her passing at St. Mary’s Villa in Humboldt, SK on Tuesday January 17, 2023 at the age of 82 years with all of her children by her side.

Vicky was born on Friday May 24, 1940 at Ile-a-laCrosse, SK. She was the youngest daughter of George and Clara (nee Daigneault) Ramsay. Vicky had a big heart filled with kindness and generosity and a strong, amazing spirit. She was united in Holy Matrimony to Luddy Yaremko on September 2, 1961 and they settled in Yorkton in 1962. This is where they raised their four children. She was an avid gardener, loved to cook (especially cabbage rolls) and spent many hours baking wonderful desserts. She was an amazing hostess for many family celebration; always vibrant, full of witty humour and always a prankster. She was both a devoted stay-at-home mom and she also dedicating much of her time to the daily operations of Luddy’s Plumbing. She was an avid CB Radio operator (“Lady Pipewrench”) and loved country music. She loved to travel and thoroughly enjoyed her many grandchildren. Vicky is predeceased by her beloved husband, Luddy (2006); her sister, Willa; and her brothers, Fred, Jim, and Charlie. She is survived by her four children. Her son, Allan (Barb) and their sons, Adam, Bryan, Andy, and Bobby; her son, Darrell (Marlene) and their children, Darcy, Jordon, Ashley, Derek, and Dallas; her son, Charles (Glenda) and their sons, Cody and Logan; her daughter, Sheril (Rob) and their daughter, Crystal and son Robby; she also leaves her beloved sister, Alice; her brother-in-law, Gary; and numerous nieces and nephews. Your memories will always be cherished in our hearts. A funeral mass was celebrated on Saturday January 21, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. from St. Gerard’s Roman Catholic Church, Yorkton with Reverend Father Louis Kim Nguyen serving as the Celebrant. The interment of cremated remains followed in the Yorkton City Cemetery. Kopan’s Funeral Service, Highway #9 North, Yorkton is honoured to have been entrusted with funeral arrangements. www.kopans.ca 306-783-0099

ROSS - It is with great sadness and cherished memories that we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Ross; beloved wife of Bob, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and friend. After a brief battle with cancer, Shirley left us with her family by her bedside on January 14, 2023 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Shirley was born April 10, 1950 in Yorkton, SK to Albert & Kay Baerr (nee Melnychuk). She had an older sister Lorraine, and younger brother Bill. Shirley met Bob in 1965 and they were married on March 25, 1967. Their daughter Shelly was born in May 1967 and Charlotte in Nov 1969. They began their life together in Saskatchewan then moved to BC but always ended up back in SK to be close with family and friends. Shirley is known for her generous smile and personality. She always dressed fashionably with her gold clothes, shoes or accessories. She was an amazing cook and loved to host special occasions at home or the lake with enough food to feed the entire neighborhood. Whether it was being in Section J at the Yorkton Terrier hockey games, or on their deck at the lake watching the Roughriders play; Shirley was cheering on her team with many family and friends around her. For the past 20 years, Shirley loved being out at their campsite at Rickers Campground with her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren joining on the weekends. From May to October the memories were made at the lake fishing and socializing. She leaves to mourn her passing and to celebrate her life, her loving husband Bob and her beloved daughters Shelly of Yorkton; Charlotte (Sid) Koteck of Yorkton; her Grandaughter Kelsey (Tom) Turcotte of Yorkton, Grandson Ryley (Marlee) Popowich of Revelstoke; her precious GreatGrandchildren Khalyssa, Royal and Blue of Yorkton; her brother Bill (Judy) Baerr of Rhein; and numerous family and friends of whom she touched all their hearts in a special way. Losing Shirley is a huge loss for all who knew her. A Service in celebration of Shirley’s life was held on Friday, January 20, 2023 in the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Crystal Bailey, certified celebrant, officiating. The candle lighter was Kelsey Turcotte and tributes were shared by Charlotte Ross-Koteck and Linda Ruf. The musical selections were “How Great Thou Art”, “Amazing Grace” and “Pontoon”. Bill Baerr was the urnbearer. The interment will be held at the Trinity Columbarium, Yorkton Memorial Gardens in the spring 2023. Memorial donations may be made to the Allan Blair Patient Lodge Renewal Fund (200-4545 Parliament Ave, Regina, SK S4W 0G3) as gifts of remembrance. Messages of condolence may be shared at baileysfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to:

ZACHARUK– IreneAnnZacharuk (neeCherepuschak),75yearsof Regina,passedawayJanuary13, 2023,inCalgarywithherfamilyby herside.Irenehadashortbutvery hard-foughtbattlewithcancer.AfuneralservicewasheldonMonday, January23. IrenewasborninNipawinonMay22, 1947.IreneattendedschoolinNipawin,thenwentontoearnhereducation degreefromtheUniversityofRegina. SheinitiallytaughtinNipawinandlaterinYorkton,whereshemetSteven, marryinghimonNovember22,1980. Ireneenjoyedteachingphysicaleducationandwasveryinvolvedinplaying,coaching,andrefereeingsports. In2007,StevenandIrenemovedto Regina,whereIreneworkedpart-time atWal-Martassheenjoyedbeingaroundpeople.Irenewasinvolvedinthe churchcommunityasamemberoftheSisterhood.

Irenehadakindandlovingheart.Shewasadevotedmother,baba,wife, sister,andfriend.Irenealwayswantedtomakethelivesofpeoplearound herbetter,whetherbyfillingtheirheartswithjoyortheirstomachswithher delicioushomemadefood.Sheenjoyedcooking/bakingandsharingherfood withfamily,friends,andpets.Irenehadaspecialconnectiontotheanimals inherlife,whowouldoftenbefoundfollowingheraroundthehouse.Irene likedtojokeandmakethosearoundherlaughwithherfunandquirkypersonality.

IreneissurvivedbyherhusbandSteven;daughtersMariaandStephanie (Brent);granddaughterRose;sistersOlgaandSylvia;andbrotherErnie. Irenewaspredeceasedbyherparents,ThomasandSophie(neeWrubel) Cherepuschak,andhalf-siblingsLadmer,Russell,Peter,Mary,Pearl,Nick andNettie.

Irenewillbefondlyrememberedforherpositive,cheerfulattitudeandherincredibledetermination.

Toleaveanonlinemessageofcondolence,pleasevisit www.speersfuneralchapel.com.

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Rooftop Snow Removal Phone 306-331-8069 BUILDING NEW, Doing Renos, need repairs. Over 20yrs. experience. Able to do framing, electrical, plumbing, drywall, tape, texture, paint, flooring. Specialize in walk-in tile showers, finish carpentry, windows & doors, siding, decks. Will travel. Guaranteed workmanship. Call Glen 306-6414987.

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PLAN OF THE WEEK

vacy. The en-suite, in a bayed-out area, includes double sinks and a soaker tub, as well as a separate shower stall. The walk-in closet is reached through the en-suite.

WANTED: SASQUATCH SKULL!

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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

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.

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

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.

BOXSPRING & MATTRESS just like new. 4 fancy chairs. Air conditioner good for a shop. Toaster oven works good. Call John at 306-621-2008

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PLAN NUMBER 7-41003 BRICK AND WOOD

ACCENTS

The brick and wood accents on the exterior of this handsome one-andone-half storey family home lend it a contemporary air that will make the structure a welcome addition to any neighbourhood.

The covered entry leads into a foyer with a display case on the left.

Directly ahead is the great-room complex, with a den and the U-shaped stairway to the secondfloor bedrooms to the right. Tucked behind the stairway are a coat closet and powder room.

The great room, with an extra-high ceiling, includes a gas fireplace, as well as large windows that look out to a covered patio at the back of the home. Part of the ceiling in the dining area, which

VILLAGE OF EBENEZER

The Village of Ebenezer is accepting applications for the position of Water Treatment Plant Operator. This is a permanent half time position which is available immediately. Class 1 Water & Wastewater Certification is required. The job duties include but are not limited to:

1. Treatment of the water as required..

2. Maintenance and minor repair of the Water Treatment Plant.

3. Maintenance and upkeep of the Lagoon and anything else that would involve the day to day operations of the Water Treatment Plant/Lagoon.

Wage will depend on the experience of the applicant. Please send your resume by email to village.ebenezer@sasktel.net or by mail to: Village of Ebenezer Box 97 Ebenezer, SK., S0A 0T0

enjoys access to the patio, is extra-high.

The kitchen, separated from the dining area and great room by a prep island, includes a doubledoor pantry.

The laundry room, which contains a coat closet, has access to the double garage, and will serve as a mud room.

The master bedroom, featuring an extra-high ceiling, is located at the back of the home for pri-

Upstairs are the three secondary bedrooms, well-separated for noise-proofing. All share a three-piece bathroom and a linen closet. Bedrooms No. 3 and 4 feature a built-in book case. Exterior finishes include brick-faced pilasters, stucco with wood accents, painted trim and a decorative garage door. This home measures 40 feet wide and 57 feet, six inches deep, for a total of 2,202 square feet. Plans for design 7-41003 are available for $855 (set of 5), $920 (set of 8) and $972 for a super set of 10. Also add $35.00 for Priority charges within B.C. or $60.00 outside of B.C. Please add H.S.T., PST, OR G.S.T (where applicable) to both the plan price and Priority charges. Our 49TH Edition of the Home Plan Catalogue containing over 300 plans is available for $15.50 (includes taxes, postage and handling). Make all cheque and money orders payable to “Jenish House Design Ltd.” and mail to: JENISH HOUSE DESIGN LTD. c/o...Yorkton This Week #201- 1658 Commerce Ave Kelowna, BC V1X 8A9 OR SEE OUR WEB PAGE ORDER FORM ON: www.jenish.com AND E-MAIL YOUR ORDER TO: homeplans@ jenish.com

VILLAGE OF EBENEZER

The Village of Ebenezer is accepting applications for the position of Town Maintenance Person. This position starts on April 15th, 2023. The successful applicant must be able to work alone and without supervision. You must have some knowledge of operating equipment for cutting grass as well as grading the roads. Duties will include but are not limited to:

1. Keeping the grass cut and trimmed around the village and municipal buildings.

2. Minor repairs and maintenance of town equipment.

3. Grading the roads in the summer and cleaning snow off the streets in winter.

4.Reading water meters 6 times a year, as well as any other duties assigned by the Council.

Wage will depend on the experience of the successful applicant. Please submit your resume by email to: village.ebenezer@sasktel.net of by mail to: Village of Ebenezer • Box 97 • Ebenezer, SK., S0A 0T0

Turn to today’s Yorkton This Week

Classifieds for the day’s best buys.

Macro photography set for GDAG

By Tyson Off Staff Writer

YORKTON – Yorkton photographer, Shannon Erickson, will be holding a macro-photography workshop on Feb. 11 at the Godfrey Dean Art Gallery.

Erickson is currently setup at the GDAG under a selfdirected residency.

“Self-directed residency is really just — I drive the vision, I drive the creative process — there’s not a mentorship, there’s not a direction given to me,” said Erickson, adding, “I take my creative ideas and implement them,” said Erickson in an interview with Yorkton This Week

This isn’t Erickson’s first foray at a Yorkton art gallery, last year she had an exhibit with the Community pARTners Gallery at the Yorkton Public Library where she showcased her macro-photography.

“It kind of came through my involvement in the other shows — I am a member of the GDAG — and so through discussion with Jeff (the GDAG’s Director), this opportunity came about as a way for them to support emerging artists,” said Erickson, adding, “I’m very thankful for the opportunity to be able to use the space

in this way.” With macro-photography focused on the small things that often go overlooked, Erickson tasked herself with building two terrariums for the project in order to “bring the outside inside”.

“What’s beautiful about this is I was able to create terrariums that incorporate a variety of colours, textures and heights to be able to create an environment that would be conducive to macro-photography.”

Between the two terrariums, Erickson estimates there are over 30 different species of plants and said her inspiration for the project came by way of photography walks she would take on Ravine Ecological Preserve.

“I found I was drawn to the lichen and the moss,” said Erickson, adding, “I think my vision as a photographer is finding beauty in the ordinary — moss and lichen is something that’s most-likely overlooked — most people don’t pay attention to it unless they’re really passionate about botany.”

“I just find there’s so much detail, so much texture, so many different colours,” said Erickson.

“My initial idea was to create a terrarium incorporating different moss and lichen

which could be called a mossarium,” said Erickson with a laugh.

“As I was developing the project the idea to also create a terrarium that would be more arride — incorporating succulents and cactuses — it creates kind of two contrasting environments, but also equally unique in their own way.”

Erickson said that the project helped her to become more acquainted with botany. She researched different plants online, but the deciding factor for which plants she would eventually choose came down to going into stores and seeing which plants she was drawn to.

“I haven’t really had a green thumb – I didn’t start this project because I had a love for plants I started this project because I have a love for photography,” said Erickson with a laugh, “it’s amazing the lengths that you’ll go to to pursue your passions, but at the same time my love for plants has definitely grown.”

“The symbolism behind growing – when you’re cultivating and nurturing and caring for something you begin to care more deeply, so this has just been really exciting to see how it’s grown, how it’s developed — this started out of nothing

— I sourced these plants and they’ve come together in such an interesting display.”

“I did title this self-residency ‘Grow’ — as an artist I’m growing and I really do find with macro-photography there is an element of contemplation — kind of taking the time just to stop and observe the details around you and being able to see.”

“I really see a lot of symbolism through this journey and through the images, so it’s kind of interesting as I go through this process – I look forward to seeing the culmination at the end.”

Though the exhibition isn’t yet open to the public, Erickson — who works a full-time job — spends her Saturdays as well as some evenings and noon hours at the GDAG honing her craft.

“I do work full time, so I really have to be strategic,” said Erickson, “sometimes I’ll come on my lunch break – even half an hour of taking photos is a nice way to step away from the day-to-day and do what I love.”

“I am here on Saturday’s during working hours so people can come and see – but the big thing is we are hosting a macro-photography workshop on February 11 from 1:00 p.m.

to 3:00 p.m. – ideally people can bring their digital SLR camera and learn more about my practice and how macro-photography works,” said Erickson, noting an open house will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. People wishing to participate in the two-hour long workshop can contact the GDAG for more information.

“As part of the workshop they will have the opportunity to print one of their photos,” said Erickson.

“This is incredibly exciting – first of all to know that there’s people who appreciate my photography and that they believe in me to give me this opportunity to grow and become more established as a local artist,” said Erickson, noting, she’s created a Facebook page entitled Shannon Erickson Photography for those interested in a preview of her work.

“On my Facebook page I’m sharing a little bit of the behind the scenes of what’s going on.” When it comes to choosing photos to upload, Erickson said it can be a struggle.

“The hard part is honestly picking my favourites because if you do take quite a few photos just make sure you tell the right story. That to me is important – it’s not just snapping a picture.”

A photo of the tiny intricacies of one of the plants in a terrarium. Courtesy Shannon Erickson.

One of the two terrariums Erickson designed for the project.

Erickson, pictured here, sharpens her skills on one of the small plants in the terrarium.

Shannon Erickson is a macro-photographer based in Yorkton.

Another favourite SSup from the vault:

My father used to call me every February from his sunny corner of B.C.

“Mowed the lawn today,” he’d tease.

I live in Saskatchewan.

He knew Saskatchewan.

“That’s nice, Dad. How many mosquito bites did’ya get?”

“Mosquitoes? Haven’t seen one of those since I left Saskatchewan in ’51.” Then he’d roar. Me too. That was part of our tradition. Sometimes he added something like, “The tulips on the west side of the house have almost finished blooming now.”

Except for my college years, I spent my first few years in B.C.’s

lower mainland. But between four provinces, I’ve passed many more winters in deep freeze. I’d miss the white and silver, were I to move back. But as long as he lived, I complained to Dad about the shoveling required to manage it.

One February, a parcel arrived from my father. Curious, I opened it. Folded between duck-printed tissue lay a sweatshirt decorated with a snow scene. The card, which I’ve kept, reads:

“Congratulations, Kathleen! Here is your prize for being nominated the best female snow shoveling artist in all the county. Presented to you by none other

Sunny Side Up

than the President and Personal Manager of the Green Grass Mowing Association, located in the heart of Elliot county of B.C. Wear it with pride. Love Dad. P.S. For more information contact me on the WEB at com.ncme.”

I held that note a long time. Then I tried on the sweatshirt. Perfect fit. When I called to

thank him, he told me he’d chosen it himself. “Mailed it all by my lonesome too,” he boasted. He joked, but I knew how perplexing his recent days had been. My precious mother had been hospitalized after weeks of debilitating, seemingly undiagnosable pain. In spite of Dad’s strong Christian

faith and irrepressible spirit, he told me it was hard to keep from just sitting down and having a good bawl—all day long. Instead, he’d gone shopping.

I pictured him in the store. Looking for a reason to keep putting one step in front of the other, one hope ahead of yesterday’s tired one. Finding it in that sweatshirt; a gift to brighten my snowy Saskatchewan day. Chewing his pen over that subtle invitation to “com.nc” him.

This morning a Holy Spirit breeze blew a few words of scripture right off its page in the Psalms. Deposited it squarely in my heart. A God-whisper, most def-

initely. “Surely I have a delightful inheritance,” I read. I thought of the best gift I’d ever received from my father. Something even better than a sweatshirt. How very often the Holy Spirit had used him to blow truth into my very psyche. Like the one he demonstrated in that perplexing season—that a person of faith always has reason to laugh, even in midwinter. That God hears our cries of protest against winter’s heaviest burdens. And that no matter how much we must shovel, spring always follows the longest, coldest season.

Amaryllis update; they are beautiful, the first buds are just starting to open up

Amaryllis update!

Some of you have been asking how our waxed amaryllis are doing. They are beautiful, the first buds are just starting to open up. They are cheery red and white striped, absolutely beautiful! Definitely a conversation starter!

Speaking of starting something new, are we like kids in the candy store with all the seed catalogues? If you haven’t received any yet, just go online to some of the main seed houses like Lindenberg, T&T, Veseys, Stokes, McKenzie, WH Perron, get your name on a mailing list and watch the mailbox! The catalogues are wonderful sources of all kinds of growing information.

One of the most important when choosing seeds is the “days to maturity”. Someone asked what this means. It seems so obvious, doesn’t it, but really it isn’t for a whole lot of reasons.

“Days to maturity”

refers to the happy day when we can pick the first vegetable or flower from a certain plant. That’s the general term. For seeds that get planted right into the garden, it refers to the days from when the seeds sprout to when they are harvested.

First, let’s talk about that number. I’m looking at the Lindenberg catalogue which has a muskmelon called “Fastbreak Improved”. It sounds like a good choice because the catalogue says, “very early maturity makes this variety ideal for Canadian gardeners”. Bless them for saying this! It’s very helpful. The days to maturity number is 65, a reasonable number for prairie gardeners. I can almost taste it sliced up on top of vanilla ice cream already!

But what if we really like one variety that says, “85 days”. Does this mean 85 days from when we plant it in the house? 85 days from when we plant it outside? General consensus seems to say that

DEBBIE HAYWARD

Gardener’s Notebook

the “85 days” start when the seedlings started in the house are set out into the garden, or 85 days from when they germinate in the garden. I have read that some gardeners start their days to maturity count from when the seedlings sprout and form actual leaves, not just emerge from the soil.

Suddenly, things are complicated. If we hope to eat that 85-day muskmelon by August 20, then counting back 85 days takes us to May 28. If we are starting the plants indoors, we probably need at least ten days added on to that, which takes us back to May 18.

But, if we are sowing

the 85-day muskmelon directly outside (always bearing in mind that the soil has to be warm enough to get those little seeds going) and do so on May 22, Victoria Day, we would begin our 85 day count from when the seedlings are up and have a couple real leaves. In a perfect gardening world, it would all work out.

But…

Here’s where the “whole lot of reasons” come up that gardeners have to consider. We might have a cold spring. We might have a lot of rain. A late melt might keep the ground chilly longer than normal. There are pests. There is hail. All these factors

have a lot to do with how fast our plants will meet that magical maturity date.

Whew! So where do we go from here, gardeners? Forward! Always forward! Read the dates and then try to select plants that seem manageable. Gardening is always taking a chance, it’s always a challenge, and it’s always interesting! So if you’re trying something new, don’t be scared by the numbers: go for it, be informed, and it will probably turn out better than you expected! Thank you to our friends at YTW for their great work. Visit us at www. yorktonhort.ca and have a great week

YORKTON AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

United 4 Survivors .ca

The Île-à-la-Crosse Residential Boarding School was operated by the Roman Catholic Diocese, largely funded by the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan, and remained in operation until the mid-1970s.

For over 100 years, Métis children were taken from their loving homes and forced to attend the school. They’ve reported stories of sexual and physical abuse and neglect perpetrated by the priests and instructors just like those experienced in other residential schools across Canada.

Île-à-la-Crosse Survivors - have not been recognized.

A new action filed in court is hoped to prompt both the Federal and Provincial Governments to at last meet with Survivors, work toward a resolution and recognize the harms they suffered, failing which the matter will go to court.

Each day we lose more Île-à-la-Crosse School Survivors. We must act now to acknowledge their story and allow them to move forward and heal.

Now is the time to recognize the injustice.

Governments – settle this now. Recognize. We stand with our Survivors. Their strength is our strength, and the strength of the Métis Nation is with them.

We are United4Survivors.ca

Learn about the proposed class action lawsuit and how you can add your voice for the Survivors’ cause.