North Portal - a tight-knit community located on the US and Saskatchewan border - saw a lot of change in 2023. 

In the spring they went through a council shake-up welcoming Mayor Amy Armstrong as well as two new council members. 

“It’s been a very good experience, lots of learning to do, but I’m enjoying it,” said Armstrong. 

They were able to implement curbside pickup for both garbage and recycling.  

The hall received a full makeover including new siding, windows and doors, and HVAC systems.  

"There were major repairs to the lift station," said Armstrong, "we had huge issues in the fall, and it required an overhaul," 

North Portal is also home to a unique international golf course.  

The clubhouse is on the American side, but Canadians can access it without crossing.  

“When you tee off at #9 hole it lands on the US side, an hour later because of the time change in the summer.”  

Armstrong is proud of the changes the community made and of how many new faces they welcomed this year. 

The holiday train is making its way through North Portal on Sunday before continuing to Estevan.  

Mackenzie Porter and Dallas Smith are performing. The train is expected to stop in North Portal around noon, and Estevan at 3 p.m.

They will also inaugurate the newly renovated hall with a potluck following the Holiday Train.  

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