Feature

United Way's tradition of support continues

By David Willberg
Estevan residents once again showed their support for their United Way, in record-breaking fashion, during the 31st annual Marathon October 12 and 13.
A total of $304,164 was collected in the 34-hour span from 8 a.m. on the 12th to 6 p.m. on the 13th. Not only is it an off-air record for the Marathon, it marks the most money the United Way of Estevan has ever raised during a year. A little more than $300,000 was collected last year.
Proceeds will be divided among the United Way's 19 member agencies.
The goal was $231,000. Estevan's United Way has been the first in Canada to reach their goal 30 times in the 31-year history of the Marathon.
"I'm so proud of the community of Estevan, and the area, for coming together and helping support our 19 member agencies," said president Mark Pettitt.
And there wasn't much suspense on whether they would top their goal. The total was near the $200,000 mark before noon on the 13th.
The goal was surpassed, and then some, with about three-and-a-half hours remaining in the Marathon. Prairie Mines and Royalty staff raised more than $40,000 this year, and that total was matched by the company, for a total donation of over $80,000. It put the United Way at over the $288,000 mark.
Moments later, national United Way president Al Hatten confirmed that Estevan was the first United Way in Canada to reach their goal, again.
"You're always first in Canada," Hatten said via conference call to applause from the audience. "It's really a tremendous achievement, I wish I was with you, and I wish you all great luck."
From that moment on, the only question was whether the United Way of Estevan would top the $300,000 mark for the first time. They did that, with just a few minutes remaining in the telecast.
Pettitt was surprised with the amount of money raised during the Marathon, but he knew the 31st edition would be a successful one when he saw the amount of money that the schools were bringing in.
"All the schools do different little bits of fundraising, with penny drives and contests, and they were bringing in record amounts, and we starting to see dollars that we hadn't seen before on Friday (October 12)," said Pettitt.
Pettitt applauded the entertainment. Performers filled the 34 hours by singing, dancing and playing instruments. Schools filled the first few hours. Bands, dance groups and soloists ensured that the Marathon never had a dull moment.
"We have some wonderful, wonderful local entertainment from the Estevan and area," said Pettitt. "We've had people from as far as an hour or two come and drive."
He noted family members from one of the late night acts drove in from Alberta to be part of the Marathon.
Twenty hand-crafted bid items were available. A cedar chest with the United Way logo, crafted by Estevan Diversified Services, was raffled off.
Pettitt said the Marathon's success in due to three groups: board member; the people who support the Marathon by donating funds or volunteering; and the member agencies.
"Everyone knows someone whose life has been touched by these member agencies," said Pettitt.
Each of the 19 member agencies had an interview to explain their work in the community.
Initial allocations for each member agency were decided in May. Another meeting will now be held to determine how to divide the surplus $73,000 that was accumulated after the United Way reached their goal.
Former Canadian heavyweight boxing champion George Chuvalo made a guest appearance during the Marathon. In town for the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association conference, Chuvalo had encouraging words for the United Way.
"He mentioned that when a community stops caring about its community, and stops caring about each other, you know you're in trouble," said Pettitt.
"And I say we're not in trouble because Estevan showed how much we care about the people living in our community - our neighbours, our friends our relatives - and how much we will do, and what we're willing to put forward, to help those who live with us and amongst us, and our friends and family."
Remember to send in pledges
The United Way of Estevan is reminding the public to honour their pledges for the 31st annual Marathon.
Supporters have two options to send in their money, if they haven't already done so. The pledges can be dropped off at any of the banks in Estevan, as well as the Spectra Credit Union's branches in Estevan and Bienfait.
Pledges can also be mailed to Box 611 in Estevan. The postal code is S4A 2A5. Canada Post will deliver the pledges free of charge, without postage, until the end of October.
United Way of Estevan president Mark Pettitt noted that all of last year's pledges were honoured.

News

Spectra commits $1 million to new arena
Caption: (L-R) Spectra Credit Union CEO Wayne Claypool, president Joe Parent, new
arena committee chair Roy Ludwig and fundraising committee chair Kim Anderson
participated in the announcement of Spectra's contribution to the new arena.
The naming rights campaign for Estevan's new arena received its largest boost thus far: a $1 million long-term commitment from Spectra Credit Union and Spectral Financial on October 15.
"We see this as an opportunity to support a project that will benefit not only the city of Estevan, but the entire region as well," said Spectra president Joe Parent. "And in making this announcement, we commend the vision and the dedication of all who have been part of this project."
Spectra employees, City of Estevan staff and members of the committee trying to build the arena were at the credit union when the announcement was made.
"We have not decided exactly where the money will be applied," said Parent. "We are going to wait, and we are still working through a form of negotiation, but we are going to wait until nearing the completion of the building, and then we will see what is the most practical for us."
About $3.5 million has been raised through the sale of naming rights and fundraising. A goal of $6 million has been set before the new arena can go ahead.
"We feel that this is a good time to make this contribution, and hope that it will lead other companies and individuals in the region to lend their support to this worthwhile economic project," said Spectra CEO Wayne Claypool.
New arena committee chair Roy Ludwig said it's a "huge step forward" as the committee strives to reach their goal.
Fundraising committee chair Kim Anderson said the Spectra announcement provides additional proof that the new arena is going to be constructed.
"We knew that this was going to come sooner or later," said Anderson. "We kept telling the citizens of Estevan that the corporations are out there waiting to see if the citizens really want this.
"This is a huge step forward. It's going to definitely give the message to everyone that yes, we are going ahead; we are going to build this rink."
Even though the new arena committee missed their self-imposed deadline of September 30 to sell $6 million in naming rights, Anderson said they are optimistic that they can start construction next year.
About 200 of the 2,000 individual seats have been sold, and 25 of the 600 standing room slots are gone. If all of those are sold, that would boost naming right sales to $5 million, Anderson said.
Ray and Doris Frehlick purchased naming rights to the walking track for $100,000, and Peterbuilt Motors purchased the concession for $100,000.

Police report
*An intoxicated male was found to be breeching his conditions. He was acting up at a bar, and refused to leave the area and take a taxi home.
*A 22-year-old Estevan female was issued a 30-day suspension for consuming alcohol and operating a motor vehicle. She has a Novice 2 licence.
*A 58-year-old Coronach male was arrested and charged with driving while over .08, operating an unregistered vehicle and driving while suspended.
*Police responded to a two-vehicle accident at the corner of Fourth Street and 13th Avenue. No injuries were reported, but one vehicle was severely damaged and towed. One motorist was charged with driving without a valid licence.
*A 17-year-old Estevan female was charged with impaired driving. The vehicle was stopped in the Hillcrest area, after police observed her driving erratically.
*A 19-year-old male was arrested on outstanding warrants from the Weyburn area.
*Several vehicles were broken into in the Hillcrest area. A small amount of currency was taken.
*Willful damage occurred to a vehicle in the east area of the city. Officers on patrol noticed a smashed window.
*A break-and-enter at a business and a theft from a vehicle are under investigation.
*A hit-and-run was reported. The victim vehicle was parked in the Civic Auditorium parking lot at the time of the accident
*A witness spotted a truck not using the truck route. When police spotted the truck, it was on the truck route, but the driver was charged based on the witness' information.

Throne Speech will pass
A fall federal election is unlikely, said Souris-Moose Mountain MP Ed Komarnicki, after the opposition Liberals said they won't oppose the Throne Speech handed down by the Conservative minority government October 16.
The NDP and the Bloc Quebecois will oppose the speech. Liberal Leader Stephane Dion said his party's support is dependent on an amendment that acknowledges environmental targets have not been met. If the amendment isn't approved, the Liberals will abstain from voting.
"In Dion's main speech, he indicated that he would be supporting the Throne Speech because he felt that the public would not want an election," said Komarnicki.
Komarnicki previously stated that the Liberals likely wouldn't force a fall election due to their sagging approval rating and poor performance in three Quebec by-elections.
The Throne Speech touted tax cuts for both individuals and corporations, and another one per cent drop in the GST. A violent crime bill will get tough on dangerous offenders and impaired drivers. Bail conditions will be stricter. Those who commit gun crimes will face mandatory sentences. The age of consent will be increased from 14 to 16.
There was also a promise to introduce legislation to repeal the long gun registry, which Komarnicki called "wasteful."
On the environmental front, the Conservatives again promoted a made-in-Canada plan - an alternative to the Kyoto Protocol - that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Komarnicki also noted that there will be legislation coming forward to implement marketing choice for barley producers.

Small business week breakfast
Several community projects were discussed during a Small Business Week breakfast October 18 at the Estevan Elks building. More than 50 people were in attendance
Chantelle Ernst from Sunrise Community explained the Southeast Community Settlement Committee (SCSC), which was created to assist immigrants who are moving to Estevan.
The SCSC prepared a survey for employers who want to bring immigrants to Estevan, employers who have brought immigrants to Estevan, the community and the immigrants themselves. The SCSC has applied for funding through Saskatchewan Immigration to hire a coordinator. That announcement should be coming in mid-November, Ernst said.
Ernst encouraged those in attendance to picture moving to a new country where they don't know the language or the culture. Immigrants often leave smaller centres like Estevan within two years, Ernst said, and go to larger centres with better support systems. But if they feel welcome, Ernst predicted they would stay in Estevan.
Verna O'Neill offered an update on the Youth Biz E-Show. She said she is working closely with Grade 7 and 8 students at Sacred Heart School in Estevan, and the students have some great ideas.
Co-operative Week in Saskatchewan was also celebrated during the breakfast. Nadine Elson from the Southern Plains Co-op discussed the Saskatchewan Co-op Youth Program. Seven seminars were offered for Saskatchewan teens.
The youth had a lot of fun at the seminars, Elson said, but they also had a great deal of learning. Young people improved their leadership, teamwork and self-esteem, too.
Judy Riddell from the Cornerstone Regional Economic Development Authority said there are 1,196 small businesses in Estevan. Small businesses account for 96 per cent of the businesses in the city. Half of them have one to four employees.

Roach out at Chamber
Bert Roach is no longer the community development manager at the Estevan and District Chamber of Commerce.
"It was just a decision of the board of directors," said president Lynn Chipley. "We did our performance evaluation for the year, and just felt that we want to go in a bit of a different direction, and we're going to look for a different candidate."
Chamber marketing manager Roxy Blackmore will temporarily expand her duties to include Roach's position. Carol Gress will continue as the office manager.
Chipley said she doesn't know when, or even if, a replacement for Roach will be named. An executive meeting will take place later this month to determine whether to seek a new community development officer.
Originally from Estevan, Roach started work with the Chamber last October. He was previously the economic development officer in Kipling.

Estevan hosts recreation conference
Caption:
- (L-R) SPRA president Shauna Bourassa presented the Communities in Bloom Award to Alameda Mayor Allan Faber.
- (L-R) Helen Fornwald and Michael Deadlock were presented with awards during the banquet.
Two employees of Estevan Leisure Services, and one southeast community, were honoured during the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association conference October 12 and 13 in Estevan.
Leisure Services manager Helen Fornwald was presented with the Facility Leadership Award. Fornwald was instrumental in the construction of Estevan's skate park and tennis courts. She sits on the committee for Estevan's new arena. She also seeks training opportunities to boost Estevan's leisure facilities.
Fornwald has worked with the City of Estevan since 1991. She was named Leisure Services manager in 2001.
Michael Deadlock won the Facility Operator Award. An employee with the City of Estevan since 1991, he has been maintenance supervisor for the Leisure Centre, and the operations manager for Leisure Services.
He supervises operations and cleaning staff for Leisure Services buildings, and maintenance staff for City of Estevan buildings. He has also worked hard to reduce energy consumption in buildings.
"It definitely makes it special to win it here, being that I've grown up here and lived here my whole life," said Deadlock.
Fornwald said the awards are indicative of the strength of Leisure Services in Estevan.
"The support that we have, at the local level, with our local organizations that we work with - city council, the mayor and our staff - are very supportive, and we all came in together to make it happen, so we're really excited to have our award," said Fornwald.
Alameda was presented the Communities in Bloom Award for communities with one to 500 people. Alameda was lauded for a new park that was suggested by former town employee Gail Sloan as a way to instill pride into the community.
"The community threw its whole weight behind the project, and it's come to fruition more than we could expect," said Mayor Allan Faber.
The park has more than 15 campsites. Some are full service. Town foreman Allen Schiestel and a group called Friends of the Park are responsible for maintenance. A Wall of Honour lists the pioneers and residents of Alameda. Trees that were planted years ago are blooming.
Alameda was the only community to receive the maximum of five blooms.
Fornwald was also the recreation conference's chair. About 250 delegates were in attendance. The theme was "Energize for the Future."
"We've had a lot of good compliments about it," said Fornwald. "The committee worked hard, and it's been challenging, but we really enjoyed it."
George Chuvalo was the keynote speaker on the 12th. Chuvalo, a legendary Canadian heavyweight boxer who lost three of his five children to drug abuse and his wife to suicide, brought his "Fight Against Drugs" message to delegates and young people in attendance.
Warren McDonald brought the convention to a close with an inspirational speech entitled "A Test of Will" on the 14th. McDonald, who lost both of his legs while scaling Australia's highest mountain, has continued to scale mountains despite his disability.

Lobster dinner proceeds donated
(L-R) Margaret Hill from the Canadian Cancer Society accepted a $40,000 cheque from Lobsters for Life co-chairs Melodie Willock and Shelley Fornwald. Funds were raised at a steak and lobster night held in September at the Lampman Curling Rink. In addition to the supper, there was a Chinese auction, a live auction and memorials. Charles Peckover donated his hair to Locks of Love.

Poet laureate visits Estevan
Saskatchewan's spokesperson for the arts made his first official visit to Estevan October 16.
Poet laureate Robert Currie read poems from a new book of poetry, Writing in Darkness, and scenes from his novel, Teaching Mr. Cutler, during a visit to the Estevan Public Library.
Currie said the job as poet laureate has been fun. It has taken him across the province, and he has visited communities of all sizes. He has done readings like the one in Estevan, but he has also spoken to school students.
The schedule isn't too demanding, he said, and Currie has been able to work on his own writings.
"I'm working on … another book of poetry, and I'm between drafts of a novel," said Currie. "I'm not sure which way to take it."

St. Joseph's fundraising for x-ray equipment
Caption: (L-R) RM of Estevan Reeve Marie Dukart presented a cheque to St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation coordinator Darlene King.
The St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation's newest fundraising project is paying off two diagnostic imaging equipment units that will be used for x-rays.
The provincial government is picking up $260,000 of the $500,000 price tag. The foundation is responsible for the rest.
Radiology supervisor Connie Biesenthal said installation on the first unit finished about a week ago. Staff has been trained on the digital aspect of the equipment.
The other old unit will be removed in January. Installation takes about five weeks, and so the second new unit should be ready in February.
The old x-ray equipment was 23 years old, and parts were no longer available for it. Foundation coordinator Darlene King said changes were needed.
King said they wouldn't be able to keep up with technology, or keep the current machines running, without fundraising or donations.
The RM of Estevan made a $50,000 donation October 15. Reeve Marie Dukart said the money was initially for the dialysis unit, but that project is already paid for, so they threw their support behind diagnostic imaging.
Dukart said the RM wants to see good health care equipment in Estevan.
The foundation will host a fundraising Halloween cabaret October 27 at the Wylie Mitchell building. Doors open at 8 p.m. Solid Sound DJ Services will provide music starting at 9 p.m. King said costumes are encouraged but not required.
King said there hasn't been a Halloween cabaret in Estevan for a few years. She promised it would be a good time with all proceeds going to diagnostic imaging equipment.

Crowd attends Maia Maori performance
Maia Maori Dance Theatre brought Polynesian dance to Westview School in Estevan October 11. More than 130 people were in attendance.
"By sharing our cultures with each other we will learn," said Maia Maori founder and artistic director Aroha Crowchild. "And once we learn we will know. And when we know we will understand and we can appreciate each other."
All 12 dancers, ranging from age 12 to 20, are related to each other. Some of the dancers now live in Canada, but six of the dancers were brought over from New Zealand for a five-week tour that will traverse Saskatchewan.
Prior to performing an exotic dance, a dancer taught the audience how to say 'Hello' in different languages. Crowd favourite dances included the Maori Poi, a dance performed with balls attached to flax strings swung rhythmically, and the Club Dances.
Maia Maori Dance Theatre was the second performance in the 2007-08 Koncerts for Kids series.

New manager at Estevan Wal-Mart
Caption: New Estevan Wal-Mart manager Stephen Simms
The Estevan Wal-Mart's new manager is Stephen Simms, who has relocated to Estevan from the Wal-Mart in Lethbridge, Alberta, and brings with him a focus on working with the local community.
"I'm looking forward to being a new manager in a new city," said Simms. "I'm hoping to … get involved with local initiatives and begin making a positive impact on the associates, our local charity partners and the community."
Simms began his Wal-Mart career in 1997 as an hourly associate in St. John's, NL, and was promoted to assistant manager in Carbonear, NL, before taking on a position overseeing loss prevention in Saskatchewan. Simms has participated in a number of off-site training exercises, including a two-week assignment in Puerto Rico.
"We are happy to welcome Stephen to the Estevan Wal-Mart," said Wal-Mart district manager Cheryl Ginter. "He will be a great addition to the store and to the community."
As the new Estevan store manager, Simms is excited to begin work with local schools and charitable organizations. He plans to become a member of the local Chamber of Commerce.
"I'm very excited about my new position, and am eager to start giving back to the community" said Simms.
Simms moves to Estevan with his wife Manpreet, daughter Anjali and son Tej.
Established in 1994 and headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Wal-Mart Canada operates a network of 277 Wal-Mart discount stores, seven supercentres and six Sam's Club locations. The company raised and donated more than $15 million to Canadian charities last year. Wal-Mart employs more than 70,000 people across Canada.

Fall festival
Caption: Marianne Aspinall painted faces during the fall festival.
The Estevan Church of God hosted their inaugural fall festival October 13. About 400 people attended, and they enjoyed various children's games and carnival games, a cake walk, a concession, coffee and other activities. A drive-in movie, "A Night at the Museum," was shown.

Milestone model engineering show
Caption: Martin Hicks looks over the various items at the Model Engineering Show.
Estevan's Model Engineering Show reached a milestone with their 20th annual show October 13 and 14 at the Wylie Mitchell building.
Nearly 50 exhibitors showed up this year, said president Kelly Tytlandsvik. Some were new but many of them were past favourites. They came from across the Prairies and the mid-west U.S. The furthest that someone travelled was Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Tytlandsvik said they didn't have anything special planned for the 50th anniversary.
"The guys bring the special stuff," said Tytlandsvik. "I give them all the credit for bringing all the special things."
Cliff Roemich hosted a model building technique seminar, and Gerry Pontius held a session on machining and plastics. Al Scholpp brought his casting demonstration back for another year.
Tytlandsvik said it's hard to believe that this was the 20th year for the show. He remembers the first year, when they had 12 exhibitors at the Estevan Shoppers Mall.
One of the highlights each year is watching the progress made by the exhibitors over the last 12 months. He cited Clarence Elias, who is building miniature Harley Davidson motorcycles, as an example.
"He's developing the techniques as he goes, with hydro forming, metal shaping and learning the machining process at the same time, because he's not a machinist by trade or by any means," said Tytlandsvik.
Exhibitors will sell and trade, Tytlandsvik said, but mostly it's a chance to show off their projects.

New owner at Dinsmore Dodge
Caption: New Dinsmore Dodge owner Trevor Knibbs
The Dinsmore Dodge dealership in Estevan has a new owner, and it will soon have a new name.
Trevor Knibbs purchased the business from Garry Dinsmore earlier this year. Knibbs has worked in all sectors of the automotive business during a 14-year career.
"I think it was a well-respected business," said Knibbs. "We're just going on from that, and we want to build on that."
A serious fire struck Dinsmore Dodge earlier this year. The showroom suffered smoke and water damage; the service bay incurred heat, water and smoke damage.
Repairs are ongoing in the showroom. Drywall is nearing completion. Carpet and flooring will be installed soon. The showroom also needs to be painted.
Knibbs said he is looking forward to moving operations into the showroom, and getting out of the trailers which house their sales department and office space.
Knibbs has big plans for the future.
"We're planning on expanding our shop in the spring, making it about twice the size for the service department." Knibbs said. "We'll also bring trailers in in the spring. We'll be selling a full line of RVs."
Vehicle selection will be expanded, with more cars, trucks and sports utility vehicles, both new and used.
A name change from Dinsmore Dodge to Power Dodge will be taking effect in about three weeks.

Home Improvement Special
Renovation market selling strong
Renovation supplies are setting the pace, but everything is selling well, said Gary Schilling, the dealer/manager of Schilling Home Building Centre in Estevan.
Paint, lumber, building materials, insulation, drywall and doors are among the top sellers, said Schilling.
"People are realizing that the values of their homes have increased dramatically, and they're investing back into these homes, especially if they need the renovation," said Schilling. "They're realizing that any investment - such as a renovation that they put into their home - they're going to get back, and then some."
The active housing market does mean that people want to stay where they are, Schilling said. If they sell their house, they have to take that money and put it into a more expensive house.
Based on marketing factors that he has seen, Schilling predicted the strength in the construction market will continue for at least three to five more years.
Among the seasonal items, deck supplies are very popular right now, he said. People are still working on decks before winter hits. Windows are popular, too, as customers are upgrading the windows in their home to energy efficient brands. Exterior doors are selling well.
Supply has been an issue across Western Canada due to the construction boom.
"Suppliers have not been able to keep up," said Schilling. "In the past, delivery of products such as doors has been a couple of weeks; it's now taking a couple of months. So people are having to wait for product.
"But I think, in general, the people have been very patient with us."

Peavey Mart "opening very soon"
Estevan's new Peavey Mart store will be opening "very soon," said manager Shawn Cruikshank.
Contractors are putting the finishing touches on the store, Cruikshank said. Most of the shelves have been stocked in advance of the opening.
"Peavey Mart has been highly regarded as an excited business coming to town," said Cruikshank. "Estevan has been waiting for us."
Peavey Mart will be located in Wal-Mart's former spot in the Estevan Shoppers Mall.
A wide variety of products will be offered: hardware, agriculture, housewares, automotive supplies, workwear, lawn and garden supplies, outdoor living merchandise and pet supplies.
"It's not just a farm store," said Cruikshank. "That's one of the misconceptions people give us. They drive by our yard and they see our fence posts and bail feeders and peat moss and that sort of thing; then they come into our store and they see we carry Christmas trees in the winter and we carry welders and we carry dishcloths."
Cruikshank has been employed with Peavey Mart for 15 years. He has work in Alberta at their Grande Prairie and Stettler outlets, and in Saskatchewan at the Moose Jaw, and most recently, Assiniboia stores.
"It's been about three months since I've been able to sell merchandise," said Cruikshank. "It's definitely exciting to open the doors and have the Estevan community come in and see what we have to offer."
The new store will have 16,000 square feet of floor space, and it will occupy about 25,000 total square feet. Sixteen to 18 people will be employed, Cruikshank said. Some of the staff has already been hired.
Peavey Mart is based in Red Deer, Alberta. Estevan will be their 30th location. Almost all of their outlets are in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Everything is selling well
Wood Country is enjoying strong sales across the board, said sales associate Brian McKnight.
"There's not one thing that's more popular than the other," said McKnight.
Housing is very good right now, he said. Seasonal products are selling well. Windows were their top seller at this time last year, but everything is pretty level right now.
McKnight pointed to the amount of construction in the region as the reason for the sales totals. He believes that the demand has been growing gradually.
Finding enough skilled labour can be a challenge. There have been product shortages and delays in getting the products to the customers. Roof and floor trusses have been especially difficult to keep in stock.
McKnight predicted it will last for at least a couple more years.
"The agriculture economy is starting into a groove, and that's a sector that's been hurting for a number of years," said McKnight. "Oil keeps on rising in price. There's lots of activity in the area."
One surprise, he said, is that housing material is at a very reasonable price, considering the current demand.
"Because of the strong grain prices, we've seen an increase in farm buildings," said McKnight. "Garages have been very popular, as have renovations. Everything is really going good right now."
Wood Country also sells ready to move (RTM) homes. But those proved to be so popular that they couldn't take any more orders after July 1.
"As of July 1, our schedule is booked right until the new year," said McKnight.

October is Agriculture and Food Month in Saskatchewan
Agriculture and Food Month is being celebrated in Saskatchewan in October.
Saskatchewan's agriculture and food industry accounts for $5 to $6 billion in primary production, and an additional $2 to $3 billion in secondary and value added processing. The industry affects one in every four jobs in Saskatchewan, and accounts for nearly one-third of Saskatchewan's exports.
The food and beverage industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the province, accounting for 20 per cent of all manufacturing shipments.
The emerging biofuels industry is creating new markets and uses for various crops and by-products.
Saskatchewan continues to be a major producer of livestock in Canada and North America, with more than 25 per cent of the Canadian cow herd. Hog production has increased by more than 150 per cent since 1997.

Submissions from three artists chosen
Caption: Carri McKinnon, Wade Kotelo and Joe Frey had their work chosen during the adjudicated art show.
Submissions by Wade Kotelo, Carri McKinnon and Joe Frey to the Estevan Arts Council's adjudicated art show could be headed on a provincial tour.
Adjudicator Wendy Parson picked Kotelo, McKinnon and Frey to submit entries for the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC). OSAC will decide whether a provincial tour would be in the offing.
Parsons said it was a difficult decision. All 10 artists who entered provided strong works. Many were technically strong, with only minor problems holding them back.
Parsons said Kotelo and Frey's works told excellent stories.
"Wade Kotelo's work tells a story, and you can see his love of people, his empathy for people, especially that one of Hope with the cancer walk," said Parsons.
"It's his (Frey's) memories of growing up in Saskatchewan, what life was like back then. You can see the hardships that they went through - his father hauling in ice in 30 below weather."
McKinnon's work doesn't tell a story, but Parsons said it "leaves open a chance for you to dream and think and philosophize," said Parsons.
"It's work that sets a mood, sets a feeling, makes you think and it touches your soul."
All three had excellent technique, Parsons said.
Parsons also hosted workshops October 12 and 13.
Other artists who entered the Adjudicated Art Show were: Linda Koch, Les Tuchscherer, Paul Quilliams, Cheryl Andrist, Henry Pospisil, Dorreen Lee, Julie-Anne Wallewein and Jacque McClement. Each artist submitted five samples of their work.

Lions hosting convention
The Estevan Lions Club will host the District 5CE conference October 19 to 21. About 100 Lions members from southeast Saskatchewan are expected to attend.
Guest speakers will include Lions International director David Stoufer of Washington, Iowa; Multiple District 5 Council chair Leo Grossman of Carlyle; and District 5CE governor Donelda Phillips of Regina.
District 5 includes clubs in Saskatchewan and North and South Dakota. District 5CE encompasses southeast Saskatchewan.
Meetings and a social will take place on the 19th. The opening ceremonies are on the 20th, followed, by more meetings, presentations and a banquet. Meetings and presentations will continue on the 21st. There will also be a memorial service for Lions in District 5CE who have passed away.
The Estevan Lions club hosts the conference about every 5 years. The club, which currently has 25 members, supports many different initiatives, but devotes most of its resources to blindness and vision problems.

 

Columnists

The Light Shines On
It is not often that one arrives at the cemetery 35 years after the funeral, but this past Thanksgiving Sunday, that is exactly what my wife's family did.
Sara's Grandma, Faye, died of Multiple Sclerosis in the early 1970s. In an effort to help other families avoid living through a similar tragedy, the family donated her body to the University of Saskatchewan so that they could do research regarding this disease. A funeral was held and a memorial stone was placed in a cemetery in Kansas.
This past year, however, the family found out that the University had buried Faye in Woodlawn cemetery in Saskatoon and so plans were made to place a stone on her actual grave. To be honest, I did not want to go. I mean, it was 35 years ago! Sure, Saskatoon is the actual spot, but, in reality, what difference does that make? It is just a plot of ground. Why would we bother driving up there just to stand around another stone?
Well, I am glad that I went, because we did more than just "stand around another stone". In that cemetery, 35 years after her death, Sara and I met her Grandma Faye. Not physically, of course, but, in a very real way, we became acquainted with someone neither one of us had ever met and we were encouraged.
As each of her children told stories about their mom, we learned of her life, her attitude, her joy and, most of all, her faith in God. We laughed. Some cried. All were strengthened by being there. Strangely, more than half of the 30 people at the cemetery were simply friends who wanted to come and honour Faye's life. Thirty five years later, people still remembered her and wanted to tell their story about who she was and how she had helped them.
The Bible says, "Encourage one another - and all the more as you see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25) and that is exactly what Faye did in her life and, somehow, continues to do today. Obviously, our influence lives on long after we depart.
Initially, I only went because I am part of the family. After having been there, I would not have missed it!
Without ever having met her, Faye reminded me that a life lived in the light of Lord is certainly a life worth living.
Tim Pippus, Estevan Church of Christ

DROP IT, BENTLEY
By Linda Wegner
This winter Bentley joined the family. He was born in Saskatchewan, put on a WestJet™ flight out of Saskatoon at the tender age of about three months and sent to British Columbia to start a new life. Our son and daughter-in-law picked him up at the airport and contrary to what they had expected, he was bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, seemingly thrilled to be part of this new family. No jet lag for Bentley!
Bentley, a cross between a water spaniel and a Shih Tzu, is now nearly a year old. He's still so "unusual in appearance," he's adorable. My first description of him was "an upside down skunk" with his black eyes and hair…it's only a white stripe down his belly that breaks the monotone. In photographing this newest member of the clan, it was a challenge to find his eyes underneath his furry mop.
I have another nickname for him now: Mr. Jell-O™. What else would you call something that wiggles all over, seemingly in a dozen different directions all at once? He loves his toys and he loves to play. He doesn't have expensive tastes - an empty milk jug is every bit as good as a stuffed teddy bear from a local discount store. Every visitor entering the yard is greeting by this wriggling ball of energy and welcomed to participate in his on-going sports events.
There's nothing more therapeutic that being welcomed by Bentley! Dragging his ever present 2% container or toy, he invites you to throw the object…if you can get him to let go of it. Watching him reminds me that you can't play the game if you don't drop the toys. Kind of like choosing the best when "good enough" is easier to do.
"And now I will show you the most excellent way." 1 Corinthians 12:31
Thanks, Bentley.

GARDEN NOTES
WORLD'S HOTTEST PEPPERS (part one)
How hot can they get? After consuming some Super Hot Hungarian Peppers, I thought I had finally hit the jackpot! Recently there has been a real wave of new hot pepper varieties that have come along. If you are strong enough (in the stomach) they can be very interesting made different ways and tasty recipes can be yours, besides using them for pickling.
The Chili peppers are becoming very popular. Probably because there are many varieties available and all have different hotness. The chili peppers can be easily dried, hung up on a string and used for the winter. Some of the chili peppers that come to mind are Salsa. Delight Hybrid which has just enough heat to tantalize. Serrano Chili peppers are small, finger shaped and these are hot regardless of them being green or red. How about a Jalapeno that is jumbo size and is called Biker Billy. It is blazingly hot which are two inches wide and three and a half inches long. Thai Dragon Hybrid are 5 times hotter than the Jalapeno. They have thin walls so they are easy to dry for winter use. Habanera peppers are getting to be quite the rave. The variety Habanera is very hot. Small silver dollar size acorn shaped fruit turn green/gold/pale orange and red. They are hot in all colours. They are so hot you can burn your hands when picking, washing or preparing them. You must use gloves. Fransisca is even hotter than the standard Habanera. They have thicker walls making it safer to handle (Habanera's are hot!) and much longer keeping up to 6 weeks. The pungent, smoky-fruity taste of Habaneras make them ideal for fruit salsas -just puree one with mangoes or a melon, fresh squeezed lime juice, and a clove of garlic, and a bunch of cilantro, and you're in business. Summer eating doesn't get any better than a grilled filet of salmon or striped bass topped with a honeydew-Habanera salsa.
Next week I will tell you how they gauge the heat of peppers, plus where to get the seed for the world's hottest peppers. So you will have to catch next week's column to get all the info on the world's hottest peppers (hotter than Habanera.)
I am writing this column now to get you all prepared for getting these plants into your garden next summer! Did you know that hot peppers will greatly help your arthritis.(If you can get them past your lips!)
Gerry Fichtemann is the owner of River Bend Nursery.

Sports

Bruins lose two straight in overtime
Caption: Estevan Bruin players celebrate a late goal against the La Ronge Ice Wolves.
It's a position the Estevan Bruins haven't been accustomed to this year.
For the first time since the opening weekend of the season, Estevan has lost back-to-back games: 4-3 in overtime to the Weyburn Red Wings October 13, and 4-3 in overtime to the La Ronge Ice Wolves on the 16th. Estevan did manage a 3-2 overtime win in Weyburn October 12.
The consolation, if there is one, is Estevan did pick up a point for each overtime loss. The Bruins are 8-4-2, good for second in the Sherwood Conference, at the quarter point in the SJHL season.
"I didn't feel we worked hard tonight," said head coach/GM Karry Biette. "We came out of the gates very slow in our rink and lacked the will to battle at times."
They also struggled to connect their passes. That resulted in a zero-for-10 showing on the power play.
"How do you correct the power play when you can't pass the puck?" asked Biette. "I don't know if the power play is the problem as much as the effort and the passing and the sub-par performance."
Goaltender Guillaume Perusse was in net for the last three games. He let in a couple of early goals against La Ronge, but Biette said Perusse played better as the game moved along.
Up next is the Bruins' second northern road swing of the season. Three games in three days will pit them against the Humboldt Broncos October 19, the Kindersley Klippers on the 20th and the Battlefords North Stars on the 21st.
The defending league champion Broncos, owners of the second-best record in the league, should prove to be a good test for the Bruins, Biette said.
"Hopefully we can get back to our winning ways, and that's through hard work," said Biette.
In off-ice news, the Bruins have acquired 18-year-old forward Liam Brennan from Alberni Valley of the BC league for future considerations.
Defenceman Kealin Wong was named the SJHL Defenceman of the Week for October 8 to 14. Wong scored game winners against Notre Dame on the 8th and Weyburn on the 12th.

Elecs win bronze
The Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs senior boys' volleyball team won the bronze medal at their home tournament October 12 and 13.Estevan defeated Regina Winston Knoll 2-1 (25-20, 22-25, 15-12) in the bronze medal game.
The Elecs went 4-1 in the round-robin, beating Weyburn, Winston Knoll, Regina Balfour and Esterhazy. Their loss was against Carnduff. Estevan beat Carlyle in the quarter-final, but lost to Swift Current in the semi-final.
The junior Elecs also played, putting up a 1-4 record. Their win was against Kipling.
The Oxbow Black Knights defeated Swift Current 2-1 (20-25, 25-20, 15-13) in the tournament's final.
The senior Elecs have upcoming tournaments in Oxbow, Balgonie and Yorkton, followed by regionals in Swift Current. Provincials are in Yorkton November 16 and 17.

From the Sidelines
Peterson sets new record
By Kyle Kapiczowski
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson set a new franchise rushing record in one game. He rushed for 224 yards and three touchdowns. As Viking s radio announcer Paul Allen put it, "Peterson has galloped into Vikings immortality." He passed Chuck Foreman, who previously held the record. Peterson did it in a 34-31 win over the Chicago Bears.
Other scores from Week 6 were: Baltimore beat St. Louis 22-3, Green Bay beat Washington 17-14, Tampa Bay outlasted Tennessee 13-10 and New England trashed Dallas 48-27.
In the CFL, it was the Andy Fantuz show as the Saskatchewan Roughriders hammered the last place Hamilton Tiger-Cats 40-27. Fantuz had 240 yards receiving with three touchdowns. The Riders record is 10-5. The Riders have clinched a playoff spot and are one win away from getting a home playoff game.
Other scores from Week 16 were: Calgary beat Winnipeg 38-25 and B.C. got by Edmonton 24-18.
In other CFL news, former Tiger-Cat Rob Hitchcock will come out of retirement and play for the Edmonton Eskimos, who are desperately fighting for a playoff spot.
In NCAA Division I football, the Utah Utes took it to San Diego State 23-7. Their record is 4-3 overall and 1-2 in conference play. Their next game is against Texas Christian in a battle for fifth place in the Mount West Conference.
Other scores were: Rutgers beat Syracuse 38-14, Temple sneaked by Akron 24-20, No. 5 South Florida hammered Central Florida 64-12 and Boise St. beat Nevada 69-67in four- overtimes.
In NCAA Division II football, the North Dakota Fighting Sioux lost 28-17 to Nebraska-Omaha. This is the Sioux's first loss this season. Their record is 6-1 overall and 4-1 in division play.
In NCAA Division IAA football, the No.1 North Dakota State Bison wasted Mississippi Valley State 58-7. The Bison's record is 6-0 overall and 1-0 in division play. Their next game is against the 1-6 Minnesota Golden Gophers.
That's all, folks!

Viewpoints

Editorial
Tea Time
GEORDIE LAND
By Dani Stobbs
This week has taken me to the North of England, and we ended up stopping by at Newcastle - a.k.a 'the Geordies' - they practically talk a different language!
Newcastle has a special part of my heart, as I attended University there, and began the first three years of my adult life there. It's an amazing city, it's compact enough that you could walk around everywhere and there's lots to do and see. I had to try and stop myself from shopping too much… but that didn't happen! As you can imagine!
We walked across the Millennium Bridge at night, and the entire sky was red from the reflection of the lights coming from the bridge - made for some amazing photographs. We looked around art galleries, which seemed to focus a lot of the naked human body - I personally think that some of it was named art so it could get away with using curse words, and showing naughty body parts.
One of my favourite things to do in cities, is to find a point where you can look over an entire city and marvel at the view. We managed to do it in London from the observation wheel and in Newcastle we travelled to the top of the Art Gallery and stood on an open balcony that looked over the whole of Newcastle. England didn't let us down… we looked out over a overcast Newcastle, with spots of rain appearing. But it felt like home.
This time I have really attached myself to England more than I did before. My last visit, made me realize how much I loved living in Estevan, and that definitely hasn't changed, but its feel great to see the trees those amazing colours of red and orange, and to feel the rain and the freshness that it brings the air. The English country side is well overlooked, and is beyond expectation. Its beautiful, and as I usually find when people from different countries visit England, they automatically go to London. I encourage you to take the time to travel to the North. Take in the quaint cities, and the Lake district where you can veer through hillsides and valleys, and dip your toes in the many lakes that surround.
There was something so romantic about the mist that covered the Lakes, and something fantastical about the rain that lightly sprayed the air. It was like something out of a book, or a movie, specially placed to create the perfect atmosphere!
We roamed down by the river and enjoyed running through the foliage. The boyfriend revelled the rain, like it was something he had never seen before - he's a true Estevanian!
We are journeying back to the south to attend a wedding, so next week's article will be laced with white wedding dresses and some crazy family member embarrassing themselves I imagine!

What's Happening

Learning about the environment
Frobisher School students posed for a picture with Wynne Gonas and Karen Jordaan. Frobisher students created, sewed and decorated reusable cloth bags that they can carry in the first of several projects designed to raise awareness about environmental issues. Under the direction of Gonas, a community pioneer, and Jordaan, a recent immigrant from South Africa, and with support of other residents, students used donated cloth found in old trunks and attics and stitched up almost 200 bags.

Donation for Ronald McDonald House
(L-R) Estevan McDonald's franchisees Tim and Chris Jenish accepted a $2,465 cheque from Pam and Paul Currie of the Prairie Riders motorcycle club October 11. Funds were raised during the Prairie Riders annual motorcycle ride in September. The money will be directed to Ronald McDonald House.

Mall donates to Salvation Army
(L-R) Mall Merchants Association president Mary LeBlanc, Estevan Salvation Army Major Margaret Foley and Estevan Shoppers Mall administrator/marketing manager Melanie Sinclair participated in a food and cheque presentation to the Salvation Army October 12. The food was collected during the Mall Merchants Association's annual food drive.

ECS OPEN HOUSE
The Estevan Comprehensive School welcomed the community during their annual Education Week open house. Clubs and classes had demonstrations and displays around the school. Parents attended several sessions.

Flu shots being offered
(L-R) Gwen LaCasse received a flu shot from Jean Bode at St. Joseph's Hospital October 16. The Sun Country Health Region is offering flu shots to adults over 65 years of age, residents of long-term care facilities, children six months to 23 months of age, pregnant women and people with certain chronic health conditions. Flu shots will be offered to the rest of the general public later in October.