Feature

A look back on 2007
Captions:
- Fourth Street in Estevan underwent resurfacing and underground infrastructure repairs in 2007.
- A colourful fireworks display capped “Estevan's 50th birthday as a city” celebrations.
- Doreen Eagles was re-elected as Estevan's MLA in November. Her Saskatchewan Party formed government for the first time.
- Ruth Hansen of Oxbow was one of the first dialysis patients in Estevan.\ By David Willberg
It was a milestone year in the Energy City. The year was marked by celebrations, completed projects, growth, economic boom and a record-setting construction pace made 2007 a very exciting one in Estevan. Here are some of the highlights.
Golden anniversary: Estevan celebrated 50 years as a city June 30 with one of the biggest celebrations in the city's history. A series of free activities during the day culminated in a fireworks display that attracted thousands of people. Class reunions, monument dedications, children's activities, a cabaret and other attractions were part of the festivities.
No clean coal: Estevan residents found out in September that SaskPower would not be constructing a clean coal plant in Estevan, at least not in the short-term. The provincial government chose natural gas instead, citing the $3.8 billion cost of the clean coal plant, and the need to have a new power source in 2010. The clean coal plant wouldn't be ready until 2012.
SaskPower will take another look at the clean coal option in 2009. A clean coal coalition has been struck in Estevan to lobby the provincial and federal governments on clean coal, and keep the project in the spotlight.
Fourth Street nears completion: Local motorists were happy to see a face-lift for Fourth Street. Eight blocks from 16th Avenue to Eighth Avenue were resurfaced. Water mains were replaced from Eighth Avenue to Kensington Avenue. Those blocks will be resurfaced next year. Sewer mains were also repaired on Fourth.
Large trucks have been rerouted from Fourth Street to Sixth Street to protect Fourth Street from damage.
Change in government: The Saskatchewan Party dethroned the NDP to become Saskatchewan's new government. The NDP had been in power since 1991. The Sask. Party won 38 of the Legislature's 58 seats. The NDP collected 20 seats. Estevan MLA Doreen Eagles was re-elected in a landslide fashion, garnering about two-thirds of the support from local voters.
Dialysis unit opens: After years of waiting, dialysis patients in the southeast can finally receive treatment at St. Joseph's Hospital. A new dialysis unit opened in November. Twelve patients are already receiving treatment in Estevan. The project cost about $500,000.
Flick Off and win: Estevan won a national climate change contest, called Flick Off, and will host a major concert in 2008. The contest, hosted by an environmental organization, encouraged people to calculate their carbon emissions, and consider ways to reduce their carbon contributions. Ninety people from Estevan filled out the survey, placing Estevan No. 1 in per capita participation in Canada.
We're still No. 1: The United Way of Estevan continued to receive record-setting community support in 2007. The United Way's annual marathon set an off-air record, topping the $300,000 mark for the first time, and smashing their goal of $231,000. The United Way of Estevan has been the first in Canada to reach their goal 30 times in the Marathon's 31-year history.
Another successful Relay: Estevan's Relay for Life raised more than $170,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society. Fifty-one teams walked for 12 hours during a June night. Cancer survivors walked the opening lap. Those who lost their battle with cancer were remembered during a luminary ceremony. Entertainment was provided throughout the night.
Immigrants arrive in Estevan: A lack of skilled labour in Estevan has forced employers, particularly those in the oilfield, to look beyond Canada's borders to fill their job vacancies. Dozens of skilled workers have arrived in Estevan from other countries. Many are from Germany and Russia. New services have started to reach out to the immigrants, including English as a Second Language courses and a settlement committee.
Population grows: Even though the 2006 Census showed Estevan's population declined slightly compared to 2001, there is evidence to suggest otherwise. Saskatchewan Health numbers indicated Estevan's population was hovering around 11,000 people, an increase of 2.3 per cent. Homes and rental properties are in short supply due to the number of people moving to the city.
The province as a whole is enjoying population growth. Saskatchewan's population has now surpassed one million people.
Oil prices continue to rise: Rising oil prices are bad news at the pumps, but they're good news for local oilfield companies. The local oilfield was booming in 2007. The trend continued across the province, as land sale revenues fetched a record $250 million in 2007.
Record building activity: Estevan also enjoyed a record year for building permits in 2007. A total of 140 permits, worth more than $18 million, were issued in the first 11 months of 2007. With new residential subdivisions continuing to be built, it's a number that will continue to rise.

News

RCMP seeking assistance
The Estevan RCMP is requesting the public's assistance in solving a theft from a Lampman residence sometime between December 7 and 9.
A snowmobile trailer, loaded with an Arctic Spa hot tub and a redwood gazebo, was stolen from the driveway of a home situated on Railway Avenue.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Estevan RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Police Report
A willful damage was reported in the central part of the city. The subject vehicle was "keyed" or scratched with a sharp instrument. The matter is being investigated. If anyone has information about this incident, they are asked to call police.
Several vehicles were reported parked in a fire lane at the Estevan Shoppers Mall.
One 20-year old male was arrested following a complaint that he and a female were engaged in a heated argument in the middle of a street in Hillside. The male was intoxicated and belligerent with police and was subsequently arrested for being intoxicated in public. He spent the night in cells.
A male who found shelter in the lobby of Days Inn was also arrested after a complaint that he'd been wandering around in the street. He was only slightly dressed and he was very intoxicated and was arrested for his own safety.
Day shift arrested a 23-year old male for driving while prohibited under the criminal code. He will appear in court in the New Year to answer to the charge.
On the evening of Dec. 24th police responded to several noise complaints. All the complaints were of the same nature seems that there was noise coming from roof tops. The subject was gone on arrival by police. On arrival the only evidence on the roof were sleigh and deer tracks and snow brushed away from the chimney.
Police responded to a domestic complaint. Police attended to a residence for a break and enter. The residence was entered through the front door sometime between the evening of the 24th and mid-morning of the 25th. There was an X-Box taken from the residence. The matter is under investigation.
While on patrol police checked a suspicious vehicle. As the police cruiser was turning around to make the stop the vehicle kept going. When it turned south off of Perkins on to McDonald officers noted the interior light come one. When the police cruiser rounded the corner a person was seen lying in the snow. The police cruiser stopped and the person was recognized as Justin Garrow, who had been at large after escaping from the Estevan Provincial Courthouse Dec. 6th. A foot pursuit ensued for a short distance and the subject was apprehended and placed in cells.

GST Rate Reduction in 2008
The GST rate will be reduced by one percentage point from 6% to 5%, effective January 1, 2008.
As announced in the 2007 Economic Statement, the federal Basic Personal Amount will increase from $8,929 to $9,600 for the 2007 and 2008 tax years, to be followed by an additional increase to $10,100 for the 2009 tax year.
As announced in the 2007 Economic Statement, the general federal corporate income tax rate will be reduced from 22.12% to 15% by 2012. Effective January 1 of each year, the rates will be as follows: 19.5% in 2008, 19% in 2009, 18% in 2010, 16.5% in 2011, and 15% in 2012.
The 22.12% rate includes the 1.12% surtax, which will be eliminated as of December 31, 2007.
The income tax rate for small business is the federal tax rate applicable on the first $400,000 of active business income of a qualifying Canadian-controlled private corporation. As announced in the 2007 Economic Statement, that rate will be reduced from 13.12% to 11%, effective January 1, 2008.

7 Non-Profit Organizations Will Benefit
SaskTel employees continue to contribute to their communities through the donation of thousands of dollars to a variety of non-profit organizations.
This year Estevan & District TelCare will donate over $5,500 to 7 organizations. The organizations are:
* Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan
* Child Find Saskatchewan
* Community Asthma Clinic
* Friends of Unit 3D
* Rheumatoid Arthritis Society
* St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation
* United Way
"Since 1950, SaskTel employees have donated money to SaskTel TelCare to support worthy causes across Saskatchewan," SaskTel President and CEO Robert Watson said. "I'm proud of the dedication and compassion our employees display year after year by supporting SaskTel TelCare."
SaskTel TelCare is a volunteer organization of SaskTel employees who contribute once a month to a common fund. SaskTel matches 50 cents for every dollar employees contribute through TelCare. In 2007, the TelCare fund contributed over $340,000 to Saskatchewan community organizations.

MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE
EFFECTIVE IN THE NEW YEAR
Saskatchewan's minimum wage will increase from $7.95 per hour to $8.25 per hour effective January 1, 2008.
The increase is the first of three stages that will see the minimum wage increase to $8.60 per hour on May 1, 2008, and to $9.25 per hour on May 1, 2009. The minimum call-out pay, which is three times the level of the minimum wage, will also increase accordingly.
There are approximately 12,400 minimum wage earners in Saskatchewan.
The increase in the minimum wage follows a review by the Minimum Wage Board. The Board is required by legislation to review the minimum wage at least every two years.

Chamber and Tourism announce merger
The Estevan Chamber of Commerce and Estevan Tourism have announced a merger, bringing together two organizations that want to attract more people to Estevan, and build the community.
Chamber president Lynn Chipley said specific Chamber functions, such as membership and business growth, will continue. Specific functions of Tourism, such as their information booth and the Souris Valley Museum, will also continue.
"Where we probably see the overlap that can occur is working collaboratively with all of the user groups in town, bringing them together, and also doing marketing materials for the City," said Chipley.
It's a natural partnership, Chipley said, as Tourism and the Chamber have been working together on projects for some time. The "Catch the Energy" informational brochure, released earlier this year, was a collaborative effort between the Chamber and Tourism.
"I think this will pull us all together," said Chipley, "so that people aren't going off in different directions. We'll be focused as one."
Estevan Tourism president Joe Parent said the merger will result in a better profile for tourism.
"By combining the two, that gives us the resources that we can in fact hire somebody of high calibre to get the job done," Parent said.
Parent said discussions on the merger had taken place over the last month. There had been informal talks in the past.
A new name will have to be adopted, reflecting the two entities coming together. Staff will work out of the same office. Estevan Tourism coordinator Janna Joyce has moved into the Chamber's present home, on the second floor of the Wicklow Building in Estevan.
Office manager Carol Gress and marketing manager Roxy Blackmore will be retained.
A joint 10-person board has been formed. Included are four Chamber representatives - Chipley, Doug Trapp, Karen Empey and Sheila Squires - and four Tourism representatives - Parent, Barry O'Handley, Tim Jenish and Mike Mercier - along with Estevan Mayor Gary St. Onge and RM of Estevan administrator Greg Hoffart.
A community developing and marketing manager will be hired. The job description includes attracting and retaining business, working with existing business and marketing the city as a place to do business and visit.
"We want this person to have good experience in economic development, marketing and tourism," said Chipley. "So it might not be the easiest person to find. It is done in a few other places where both functions are combined."
Parent said the person will have to be organized and pleasant, with excellent promotional abilities.
"It will benefit the entire community, not only tourism, but it will assist in people coming for the trade and commerce," said Parent.
The deadline to apply for the community developing and marketing manager job is January 31. Chipley said she would like to have someone hired by April 1.

Saskatchewan's population tops one million
Saskatchewan's population has surpassed the one million mark, according to Statistics Canada, for the first time since July 1, 2001.
"More great news for Saskatchewan!" Premier Brad Wall said. "Saskatchewan is the place to be in Canada right now and people are moving here by the thousands.
"I am confident these numbers will continue to climb," Wall said. "It's the job of the new government to build on Saskatchewan's recent economic momentum. More and more people are discovering what so many of us already knew - that Saskatchewan is the best province in the best country in the world."
Statistics Canada's most recent quarterly population numbers show Saskatchewan's population was estimated to be 1,003,299 as of October 1, 2007. This is an increase of 6,430 people since July 1, 2007, and an increase of 15,263 people from October 1, 2006. Saskatchewan also had the highest net migration rate of all the provinces.
Other highlights of Statistics Canada report show:
*The quarterly growth rate, at .65 per cent, is the best in Canada. Neighbors posted growth of .37 per cent (Alberta) and .31 per cent (Manitoba).
*The 6,430 person increase is the largest quarterly population change since the quarterly population series was introduced in 1971.
*Saskatchewan's annual population growth rate was the second highest of all the provinces.
*This was the fourth consecutive quarter where Saskatchewan was a net recipient of interprovincial migrants from Alberta (net increase of 3,362 people).
*Saskatchewan's overall net in-migration (the number of people moving in minus the number moving out) was 4,324 for the quarter.
"We are poised for tremendous growth and opportunity, and that means a more secure future for everyone in Saskatchewan," Wall said.

Naming rights top $4 million
Naming rights sales and fundraising for Estevan's new arena have topped the $4 million mark.
Fundraising committee chair Kim Anderson would like to see more seats sold. A little more than 300 of the 2,008 seats available in the new arena are sold, and a few dozen of the 600 standing room spots have been purchased.
Anderson was hoping that 1,200 to 1,500 seats would be sold at this point.
A seat costs $500 and a standing room spot is $600. Anderson said the $500 or $600 doesn't have to be paid immediately; it can be paid over four years.
"You get ownership of the seat," said Anderson. "Your name is placed on two things: it's placed on the seat, and it's placed on what we're going to develop. It's called a puck wall, and your name will be on a hockey puck, and displayed in the front lobby for all to see.
"And you get first rights to purchase (tickets for) any event that comes into the new arena."
There is about $500,000 in corporate naming rights purchases waiting to be announced, Anderson said, but the business owners want the people of Estevan to prove they want the arena.
"This is an opportunity for the individual people of Estevan to contribute and save themselves some tax dollars," said Anderson. "People are asking questions of what is the city putting in? And my answer is I hope they don't put anything in."
A goal of $6 million in naming rights sales has been set for December 31. If they don't reach the goal, they'll continue to fundraise, Anderson said. Anderson would like to see construction start March 31, 2008.
In the meantime, architects have started to work on the final designs. Once those are in place, the new arena committee will be going to a contractor, but construction won't start until the $6 million is in place.

Stiffer penalties for repeat drunk drivers
A directive issued to the province's Crown Prosecutors will see tougher treatment of repeat drunk drivers.
"The Government of Saskatchewan is well aware of the danger on our streets and highways posed by drunk drivers," Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said. "The people of Saskatchewan have voted for safer communities and we are delivering on our promise to decrease the number of repeat drunk driving offences in our province."
Effective immediately, all prosecutors are instructed to strongly consider proceeding by way of indictment, and on conviction applying for forfeiture of the vehicle where the Criminal Code permits in the following circumstances:
*If the offender has two or more convictions for impaired driving within two years of the date of the current offence; or
*If the offender does not have a previous impaired driving conviction within two years of the date of the current offence but has three or more impaired driving convictions within four years; or
If the offender has a prior conviction for impaired driving within two years of the date of the current offence plus two or more impaired driving convictions within four years.
Prosecutors are also encouraged to exercise their discretion and to consider applying for forfeiture of the vehicle where a repeat offender is convicted of impaired driving causing bodily harm or death.

Wheat sheaf logo to be retained
Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz has announced that the government has decided not to replace the government's wheat sheaf logo at this time.
Krawetz previously indicated the government was considering a process to update the 30 year old logo.
"This idea generated a lot of feedback and discussion throughout the province," Krawetz said. "Some people like the idea. Some, however, do not."
"The updating of the sheaf was never going to be a priority of the new Saskatchewan Party government. But, to the extent that there was a public perception that modernizing the wheat sheaf was going to be a distraction from our priorities, we are setting the record straight."
Krawetz said for those who oppose changing, it's really not a matter of whether or not they like the wheat sheaf logo. It was a question of priorities.
Krawetz added that while there is always a cost to re-organizing the government after a change of government, the goal will be to keep that cost to a minimum.

Hillside School demolished
One of Estevan's former schools has been demolished. Hillside School's building was torn down in mid-December. The Kindergarten to Grade 6 school was open from 1949 to 2003. The building was home to other education organizations since then. The school's gymnasium will be transported to Woodlawn Regional Park, where it will be a multi-purpose building.

Game on
Recent mild temperatures in Estevan resulted
in young people rushing to outdoor skating rinks in the city. The rink at Hillside Playpark is one of the most popular destinations.
Children have played pick-up games of hockey, and practiced their skating and shooting.

Literacy Day to be celebrated
A wide variety of activities for the whole family have been planned for the entire family during Estevan's inaugural Literacy Day celebrations January 26, 2008, hosted by Estevan's Literacy Group.
Local authors will present their books, including Estevan's Scott Campbell, Lampman's Maureen Ulrich, and former Estevan resident Sheena Koops.
They have booked a clown, Rhonda Donais of Regina, and a First Nations storyteller has been booked. There will be a game of "Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?".
There will also be family literacy activities, painting and art for children and an alphabet game for children. There will be booths from various literacy, education and arts organizations.
"We want to promote literacy in the community," said coordinator Pam Gunnlanson. "Our initiatives are early childhood education, family literacy, aboriginal literacy - that's why we're bringing in the storyteller - and English as a Second Language."

Estevan Toastmasters Receives Select Distinguished Club Award
Caption: (L-R):David Bartolf, (Division B Governor); Marg Ustupski (President Estevan Toastmasters); Andie Littlejohn, (VP Membership Estevan Toastmasters)
Estevan Toastmasters has received the Select Distinguished Club award from Toastmasters International. It is a first for the Estevan club and a very important achievement that the members are very proud to receive.
Division Governor David Bartolf who presented the award said only 3 clubs out of 26 in Division B (Southern Saskatchewan) achieved this goal in 2007. The award is based on achieving various educational and membership goals.
Club President Marg Ustupski said it was an award achieved by all members of the club and that it was the members who made 2007 the great year that it was. Estevan Toastmasters was chartered in 2003 and has grown every year of its existence. It has been a big help to those that want to improve their communication and public speaking skills.

DWI presents cheque
Estevan Driving Without Impairment Program (DWI) co-ordinator, Jack Fingler presenting a $1,000 cheque to Darlene King, St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation co-ordinator. The funds will go to diagnostics equipment.

Waiting for snow
Local snowmobile users are waiting for the first big snow of winter before they can break out their machines, said Missy Gowen, the president of the Estevan Snowmobile Club.
Very few snowmobiles have been used this year, she said. A cold snap hit Estevan in late November and early December, but it brought only a few centimetres of snow.
"Hopefully we'll get some snow here in the next two months," said Gowen.
Once there is some significant snow on the ground, Gowen said they will be able to start grooming their trails. Gowen didn't have a figure for the number of memberships that they have sold this year, but they are trying to get a lot of memberships sold this year, despite the lack of snow.
In the meantime, the snowmobile club is planning two rallies for 2008: Saturday, February 9 and Saturday, February 23. They are also selling tickets for the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association raffle. The winner will get to choose one of four snowmobiles.
The club will also host a Saskatchewan Safety Council snowmobile safety course on Saturday, January 12, 2008 for children ages 12 and up.
The club has also finalized their executive for this year. Joining Gowen are vice-president Lori Kyle, secretary Dave Heier and treasurer Barry Barnstable.

PREMIER SAYS FALL SESSION REFLECTED UPBEAT MOOD OF PROVINCE
New Government Has Already Fulfilled Several Campaign Promises
Premier Brad Wall said on December 20 that the first legislative session for his new government reflected the upbeat mood of a growing, optimistic province.
"I feel like we're off to a good start," Wall said. "Our government has already fulfilled a number of our campaign promises.
"The session began with a Speech from the Throne highlighting our commitment to growth and opportunity, security and compassion and keeping our word. It ended with the introduction of legislation that will increase democracy in the workplace, and assure the safety and security of Saskatchewan families in the event of labour disruptions - legislation that is common place in our country."
Just one month after taking office, the government has already fulfilled a number of campaign promises, including:
Introduction of legislation ensuring fixed election dates every four years;
Ensuring the PST is paid only once on a car or light truck;
Tougher penalties for repeat drunk drivers;
Introduction of legislation creating Enterprise Saskatchewan;
Introduction of the Growth and Financial Security Act;
A smaller provincial cabinet;
Saving $100 million taxpayers' dollars by setting aside the Memorandum of Understanding with Domtar; and
Paying down $250 million in provincial debt.
Wall believes Saskatchewan people are looking forward to the Christmas break, knowing that 2008 is shaping up to be Saskatchewan's year.
"Has there ever been more optimism in Saskatchewan than there is today? Our population is now back over one million for the first time since 2001, there were 8,000 new jobs in November compared to the previous year, and business confidence is soaring," Wall said.
"The challenge for our government will be to continue this growth and ensure it leads to more opportunities and a better and more secure future for all Saskatchewan people."

VIP open house
Violence Intervention Program (VIP) board member William Sinclair helped himself to some punch during a Christmas open house December 20. Staff, board members, volunteers and other contributors to VIP attended for refreshments, snacks and socializing.

Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by land or water as of January 31, 2008, if you travel to the U.S. by land or water, a U.S. law will require you to present:
A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence;
AND a birth certificate or a citizenship card;
OR a valid passport;
OR a NEXUS or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card;
OR For those 18 and under, a birth certificate.
Canadian citizens flying to or through the U.S. must present a valid Canadian passport.

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES PROGRAMS TO AID
SASKATCHEWAN HOG AND CATTLE PRODUCERS
Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud announced on December 21 a new program to provide financial assistance to Saskatchewan hog and cattle producers.
The Saskatchewan Short-Term Hog Loan Program and the Saskatchewan Short-Term Cattle Loan Program will provide an estimated $90 million in funding to those who are struggling during this current price downturn.
"I have heard first-hand the difficulties that are facing our cattle and hog producers," Bjornerud said. "I am pleased to announce this assistance program to help address the current economic situation these producers face."
It is estimated the hog industry will access about $30 million in loans, while $60 million will be accessed by the cattle industry. Both sectors have been suffering from low prices brought on by an increase in the value of the Canadian dollar and very high feed grain prices.
"Our government has tried to work quickly to provide results for Saskatchewan's livestock industry," Bjornerud said. "While we know this is by no means the end of their challenges, producers can be assured their government will do everything it can to help them in a manner that minimizes trade risk."
Saskatchewan also announced today that it has signed onto the national AgriInvest and AgriStability programs, providing further assistance to livestock producers.
Applications for the Saskatchewan Short-Term Hog Loan Program and Cattle Loan Program will be made available to producers early in the New Year. Deadline for applications is June 10, 2008, for the hog program, and March 31, 2008, for the cattle program.

Columnists

Encouraging Encouragement
I like it when I find little tools that make life better. For example, have you seen those new LED flashlights that work by turning a crank to create the electricity to run it? I love those flashlights! I keep one in the glove compartment of my truck and I never have to worry about dead batteries. The thing can sit there for six months and it is ready to go when I need it. That little gadget makes my life easier.
That got me thinking: Wouldn't it be great if we could find some simple, little, spiritual thing that we could use to make life better?
Well, I have found one: it is called "encouragement".
"Encourage", or some variation of that word, is used 66 times in the Bible and, in the book of Acts, it the word that is most often associated with God's people. The church gathered to encourage one another (Acts 18:27). The Holy Spirit encouraged the believers (9:31). The missionaries visited people to encourage them (14:22). One of the first leaders in the church was even nicknamed "Barnabas" which means "Son of Encouragement" (4:36). Encouragement was a huge part of the life of the early church.
Encouragement is powerful because everyone responds to it. Everyone likes to hear that they are doing something well. Generally speaking, people will rise to the expectations placed on them. If you want to see improvement in someone else, start pointing out the good things that they are doing.
The only requirement is that we have to choose to be encouraging. We have to choose what we will focus on. Job is a good example of this. After his friends point out all the things they think he has done wrong, Job says, "I also could speak like you… I could make fine speeches against you and shake my head at you. But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief" (Job 16:4-5).
Our words are powerful. They can either hurt or heal. They can build people up or tear them down.
In this New Year, resolve to build people up. Be an encourager.
Tim Pippus, Estevan Church of Christ

THE TIME BETWEEN TIMES
By Linda Wegner
If all goes as planned, this article will be published between Christmas and New Year's Day. To me, those six days feel somewhat like the disregarded offspring of a celebrity - no personality apart from that of its world renowned predecessor. For me, December 26th to 31st acquires a sort of "no man's land" or "time dropped between the times" status.
Here are my reasons: First, the current year isn't quite finished living out its allotted space. Although 2007 Story of the Year nominees are already being talked about in the media, something big could still happen. Take, for example, the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami that inundated Indonesia and Thailand. On a lighter note, the World Junior Hockey Championships begin on December 26.
My second reason for this observation is that the New Year hasn't happened yet. Here in Canada the Goods and Services Tax is slated to drop a point but that won't help me if I go shopping for after-Christmas bargains. I've got all sorts of proposed activities, work and personal, planned for 2008 but schedules - like men and mice - gang aft agley. Who knows, I might lose a contract or I could be the winner of some unnamed and unimagined prize.
It's a funny feeling, this combination of time fulfilled and time yet to begin. Looking back there is nothing that can be undone. Rectified to some extent? Perhaps. Restructured to gain valuable life lessons? That would be great. But redone? No. The best I can do is to ask God to help me turn past events into future victories.
"The fear of the Lord leads to life and he who has it will abide in satisfaction." Proverbs 19:23
Past actions and attitudes are history; future events, often beyond our control. Trusting God gives grace to deal with both.

Sports

Sports in 2007
Caption: NHL commissioner Gary Bettman spoke at a new arena fundraiser in February.
Estevan was teeming with sporting activity in 2007, highlighted by the effort to construct a new arena in the city. Here are some of the highlights:
New arena planning: The quest to construct a new arena in Estevan was in the headlines all year. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman made a rare appearance in a non-NHL market, speaking at a new arena fundraiser in February. Brian Burke, the GM for the Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks, also spoke at the function, which raised about $210,000 for the new rink.
The new arena committee has embarked on an ambitious naming rights campaign, trying to sell $6 million in naming rights before December 31, so that construction can start in 2008. They have topped the $4 million mark. Everything from the arena's name to the concession to 24 private boxes to 2,008 individual seats are for sale.
The provincial government has contributed $2.8 million to the construction of the arena.
Bruins enjoy successful year: The Estevan Bruins enjoyed a successful year on the ice in 2007. They won the Sherwood Conference title in the regular season, but lost to the Yorkton Terriers in the conference semi-final.
The Bruins were fourth in the conference at the Christmas break in the 2007-08 season, a respectable standing for a young team with only a few returning players from last year.
Midget provincials in Estevan: Estevan only hosted one provincial baseball tournament this year, but it was a biggie: the midget AAA championship, the keystone youth baseball tournament in the province. Estevan reached the semi-final, but lost 1-0 to a team from Regina.
The peewee and bantam AAA Western Canadian championships will be in Estevan in 2008.
Riders win: Casual and diehard football fans alike across the province caught Grey Cup fever in November, as the Saskatchewan Roughriders captured the CFL championship for the first time since 1989. Local fans watched the Riders' 23-19 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Grey Cup parties across the city, whether it be at home with friends and family, or at local bars and restaurants.
Minor hockey goes three-for-three: Estevan Minor Hockey enjoyed a very successful start to April. The midget A and peewee A Bruins won provincial titles, and the midget AA Bruins won their league, all within a three-day span.
Minchin continues pro ambitions: Estevan's Amanda Minchin continued her professional golf ambitions. She had a career-best eighth place finish at a tournament in California, and tried out for The Big Break, a reality TV program on the Golf Channel.
Red Devils win Big Six: The Carnduff Red Devils won their first Big Six Hockey League championship since 1993-94, beating the Carlyle Cougars in seven games.

Canadians feel parents too aggressive at kids' hockey games
A new national survey conducted by Harris Decima Research on behalf of Henkel Consumer Goods of Canada shows that almost all Canadians - 97 per cent - feel there is no place for 'hockey rage' at children's games. But, 84 per cent of Canadians believe parents are becoming too aggressive and competitive when watching their children's games.
For the second year in a row, Henkel is a sponsor of the upcoming 2008 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship that will take place in Canada for the first time ever in May 2008.
"We are a key sponsor of the 2008 IIHF World Championship because we recognize the importance placed on hockey and its unique place in the hearts of Canadians, and in fact, the hearts of fans around the world," said John Schofield, VP & Country Manager Henkel Consumer Goods Canada Inc. "As a world class company with world class products, Henkel is dedicated to ensuring world class hockey continues. The survey shows us that the very fabric of the game has changed. It's important to find ways to ensure that the game is played strong, clean and fair so that all players, regardless of their age and capability, can enjoy the game the way it was meant to be played - honestly and with quality."
For more information, please visit www.henkelpowerplayers.ca.

Blackstrap ski hill temporarily closed
The ski hill at Blackstrap Provincial Park will not be opening for the 2007-2008 winter season because operating the ski hill would have required significant subsidization by the provincial government.
"Although the Blackstrap ski hill will not be open for the 2007/08 season, we will continue to work on developing long-term options that will provide visitors with access to high-quality outdoor recreational activities without financial support from the province," Saskatchewan Parks Service Executive Director Syd Barber said.
Last winter, following many years of private sector operation, Blackstrap Provincial Park ski hill was operated under contract. This approach resulted in a cost of more than $900,000 to the provincial government. The ski hill was open for less than two months.
Two calls for proposals were issued in early October 2007. One was for a contractor to operate and maintain the downhill skiing and snowboarding area for the 2007-2008 season.
The other was seeking a long-term private operator to develop the ski hill and area. The Ministry of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport is encouraging expanded year-round tourism development to complement the ski hill.
"As our request for proposals for the long-term operation of the ski hill does not close until January 31, 2008, it would be premature to speculate on what the long-term arrangements might be," Barber said.
"However, we will be exploring private-sector operation of facilities as has been done with many other facilities in Provincial Parks."
Blackstrap Provincial Park remains open for winter usage and, as in the past, cross country ski trails will continue to be groomed.

From the Sidelines
Lions Prowl in Detroit
By Kyle Kapiczowski
This week I will be writing about another favorite team in the NFC North the Detroit Lions.
The Detroit team started in 1930 as the Portsmouth Spartans. This first team existed for only two seasons before folding in 1933. The following year a new Detroit team was established and became known as the Detroit Lions.
The Detroit Lions have won four NFL titles: 1935, 1952, 1953, 1954 and 1957. The Lions also won eight division championships and they have made the playoffs 14 times and no Super Bowl appearances.
Some of the past players were: Charlie Ane, Joe Schmidt, Terry Barr, Wayne Walker, Mel Farr, Greg Landry, Al Baker, Lomas Brown, Barry Sanders, Chris Speilman and Billy Sims.
Some of the past coaches were: George Clark from 1934 to 1936, George Wilson from 1957 to 1964, Joe Schmidt from 1967 to 1972, Wayne Fontes from 1988 to 1996 and Steve Mariucci from 2003 to 2005. Their current head coach is Rod Marinelli.
Some of the current players include wide receiver Troy Walters, punter Nick Harris, cornerback Keith Smith, running back Kevin Jones, fullback Jon Bradley, kicker Jason Hanson and my favorite Lion, quarterback John Kinta.
The team has had four different homes. The team played their home games at the Pontiac Silver Dome from 1957 to 2001. The following year the Lions moved to their current home at Ford Field.
The team's first logo was a football player running with a lion. In 1961 the logo was a lion with blue and silver stripes. Then in 1970 the team changed to its present logo, the leaping lion. The team's original colors were blue, white and silver. In 2003 the team changed to blue, white, silver and black.
The Lions have three uniforms. Their home jersey is blue with black, silver and white trim. The road jersey is white with blue, silver and back trim. The third jersey is black with blue, white and silver trim. All the jerseys have "Lions" on the front.
That's all, folks!

Viewpoints

Tea Time -- Lifetime Resolutions
By Dani Stobbs
I have made resolutions about all sorts. The most popular one is STOP BITING MY NAILS. The thing is, I do manage for a few weeks to grow them, and I am 'oh so proud' of my achievement. But then I will sit and watch TV and all I can think of is how long my nails are, and how great it would feel to just bite them off.
Another one is to eat healthier, or to stop drinking so much caffeine. I am a huge tea fan, as you well know, and I love diet coke. It's no wonder I can't sleep at night. This resolution never lasts either. I walk down the shopping aisles and see the wonderment that is diet coke, and I can not resist it. It's like a magnetic force that draws me in.
After many years of failed resolutions, I decided that this year I was going to make one and stick to it. I don't want to do something that is going to pain me everyday and not make a difference to my life.
A couple of years ago I made a list. This list was made up of all the things that I wanted to do in my life time. Some things I want to do require more effort than others. For example I want to travel to Uganda. I want to work in developing countries, and be outside of my comfort zone. I want to travel to Greece and indulge in my classical culture passion.
Then there are the less significant things, but none-the-less still important for me. I have always wanted to dye my hair pink. It sounds silly to some people, but its something that I have always wanted to do, and I will do it before my time is up on this earth. I want to learn to walk on my hands for more than ten seconds and learn to play the guitar.
Then there are the things that I want to do that will impact others. I want to write a book. I want to inspire somebody. I want to be able to have my grandmother as my bridesmaid.
As I think of all these things, they are all totally possible. Ok, so I have no money, but is that going to stop me. NO! These things may not be your resolutions but I'm sure there are things that you want to do with your life that maybe don't appeal to someone else.
I encourage you to make a resolution that you want to keep. Something that is from your soul. Because believe it or not, to stop biting my nails was not a soul thing, but trying to be an inspiration is. I don't want to do these things in a year and limit my perspective, I have a life time, and so this year these are my life time resolutions. Watch out for the English woman with pink hair! I'm living my dream.

What's Happening

Two IBEW presentations
(L-R) International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2067 representatives Lyle Haas and Stacey Prokopetz presented a cheque worth $375 to Captain Heather Fudge from the Estevan Salvation Army. The funds came from IBEW Local 2067 union awareness fund.

(L-R) Estevan Humane Society president Doris Parkinson accepted a cheque worth $375 from International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 2067 representatives CeaAnna Kerr and Darcy Wright. The funds were made available from the union awareness funds.