Memories made at the 40th Anniversary of the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Dinner
By Averil Hall
Freelance Reporter/ Photographer
Eleven Individuals and three teams were inducted in the 40th Annual Induction Dinner of the Sask Baseball Hall of Fame at the Alex Dillabough Centre on Aug. 16.
Individual inductees were Kasmer Andreychuk from Yorkton, SK; Glenn Connor from Beechy, SK; Sherman Cottingham from Clinton TWP, MI; Penny Fitzsimmons from Saskatoon, SK; Murray Gray from Maymont, SK; Ken Hamilton from Assiniboia, SK; Logan Hofmann from Muenster, SK; Kevin Payne from Lloydminster, SK; Rye Pothakos from Saskatoon, SK; Darren Schaan from Regina, SK; and the late Max White
from Goodwater, SK. Team inductees were the Riverhurst Thumpers Baseball Team 2005-2015, Melville Bantam A Millionaires 1978, and Battleford Bantam A Beavers 1992.
Dignitaries present were Ames Leslie, Mayor of Battleford, Jeremy Cockrill, MLA for the Battlefords, and Carla Beck, NDP Leader of the Opposition.
Jeff Rogstad from CTV was the Master of Ceremonies for the night. Inductees were marched in by a procession led by Piper Jim Ramsay, and RCMP Inspector Ryan How.
A special presentation
was presented to Jane Shury acknowledging her husband, Dave, and herself for starting the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 40 years ago.
Dr. Sherman Cottingham from Clinton Township, Michigan, was the guest speaker at this year’s 40th
Inductee Ceremony.
Cottingham was born in Acadia, Louisiana, in 1936.
His interest in baseball started at a young age when he realized the same motion he used to skip stones across water could be applied to pitching.
He was recruited by
“I came out of a racist situation in Louisiana but when I came to North Battleford I was able to sit at a restaurant, or play pool in the pool room without somebody calling me the ‘N’ word, something he said left a lasting impression.”
Dr. Sherman Cottingham
legend Satchel Paige to play on his AllStar Team. Paige gave him the nickname “Little Professor” because Cottingham was the only player on the roster who had graduated from college. Under Paige’s mentorship, he developed a fastball in the low 90s and an effective slider. Cottingham was called up to play for the North Battleford Beavers sixty years ago (1964-1965). He said
Continued on page 2
baseball
Ray Beck, newly appointed president, from Lang, Sask., and Jane Shury, CEO from Battleford, sing Take me out to the ball game to end the evening.
MLA for the Battlefords, Jeremy Cockrill and Leader of the Opposition, Carla Beck, and family members listen intently to the guest speaker. | Photos by Averil Hall
Memories made at the 40th Anniversary of the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Dinner
Continued from page 1 that was the best call he received. When he lived in North Battleford, he was treated with the upmost respect and dignity that he has ever had. He recalled, “I came out of a racist situation in Louisiana but when I came to North Battleford I was able to sit at a restaurant, or play pool in the pool room without somebody calling me the ‘N’ word, something he said left a lasting impression” Cottingham said.
In 1965, Cottingham threw a no-hitter and was named the team’s MVP. His pitching skills earned him many accolades, but it was
his sportsmanship that made him a respected figure in the community.
He told the audience that no achievement is made alone and credited teamwork for every success. He described baseball as a story of resilience, with failures and opportunities to rise from them.
Cottingham went on to earn his PhD in Education and later worked as a school teacher. He said the lessons he learned in North Battleford helped shape his life after baseball.
The ceremony concluded, as always, with attendees singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”
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1992 Battleford Bantam A Beavers receive their team induction certificate.
Dr. Sherman Cottingham receives his 2025 induction certificate from CEO Jane Shury.
2025 Baseball Hall of Fame Inductees sitting at head table. | Photos by Averil Hall
Dan Reynish from Medicine Hat, Alta., and formerly of CTV announces the 2025 inductees.
Jeff Rogstad from CTV Saskatoon flips a coin for the 50-50 game. Winner won $1,200.
Jane Shury CEO from Battleford has a picture taken with her great grandchildren.
John Yarske, Board Member from North Battleford gives the toast to the King.
Tipi Teachings – Chokecherry Preparation
By Averil Hall
Freelance Reporter/ Photographer
Western Development Museum, North Battleford –Between August 12 and 14, Indigenous chokecherry preparation was demonstrated at the Western Development Museum (WDM). Instead of bringing chokecherries in from off-site for the demonstration, Beverly Jimmy-Lewis, Larry Lewis, and Phyllis Iron harvested the chokecherry bushes on the museum grounds. They picked berries that were dark purple, red berries are not yet ripe.
A large smooth flat rock is used as the base for the berries. A smaller flat rock, held in the hand, is used to crush the berries on the larger rock. These rocks come from northern areas. The berries are crushed until they reach a hamburger-like consistency, making sure all larger pieces are broken down. The cherry pits normally contain cyanide, but boiling or cooking reduces the toxicity.
Traditionally, the mash is formed into small patties and dried in the sun. Today, the mash is often stored in freezer bags for later use.
First Nations also use chokecherries and other berries to make pemmican,
which lasts indefinitely. To make pemmican, berries are mashed and dried. Dried meat is crushed with stones until it becomes powder. (see News Optimist July 31 Tipi Teachings highlight First Nation food preservation story on how to dry meat) The meat and berries are mixed with tallow from animals like moose or bison. Sugar or honey can be added. The mixture is shaped into bars or patties. Traditionally, the bars are stored in a sac made from an animal stomach and buried in the ground to keep them cool. This preserves them for a very long time. Today, people use plastic or wax paper instead.
Beverly Jimmy-Lewis said “I like to add water, oil, and sometimes flour to the mash, fry it in a pan, and serve it on Bannock.”
This is the last Tipi Teachings event at the WDM this year covered by the News Optimist/Sasktoday. There is one more Tipi Teachings from August 19 to 21, between 1 and 3 p.m., the WDM will demonstrate Hand Games.
Readers can refer to the July 24, 2025 News Optimist for instructions and then visit the Tipi Village to play.
The August 21 issue will feature a story on how the Tipi Village began at the WDM.
Phyllis Iron keeps turning the chokecherry mixture as it cooks over the fire.
Ripe chokecherries growing on a tree in the WDM grounds. | Photos by Averil Hall
Larry Lewis and Beverly Jimmy-Lewis both smash the chokecherries on smooth rocks which were found in Northern Saskatchewan.
Beverly Jimmy-Lewis uses a smaller rock and smashes chokecherries on the bigger flat smooth rock to make a mash.
Chokecherry mash is mixed with water and some oil and put in a frying to be put on the fire to cook.
Chokecherry mash is checked to see if there are no large pieces in it.
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Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223
Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net
Two North Battleford hockey scouts join 2025 Wall of Honour
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— A North Battleford pioneer was among 30 hockey scouts inducted into the 2025 Wall of Honour during the Western Canada Professional Hockey Scouts Foundation ceremony in Okotoks, Alta., recently.
Albert “Jeep” George, who died in 1985, is one of four North Battleford individuals now in the Wall of Honour. He joins Al Tuer (2025), Graham Tuer (2024) and Ron Delorme (2024).
George’s son, David George, accepted the award posthumously on his fa -
ther’s behalf at the banquet ceremony on July 29.
“It’s awesome,” David said. “He was one of the hardest workers I’ve ever known. He worked his tail off to do everything right.”
According to his biography from the Western Canada Professional Hockey Scouts Foundation, Albert
“Jeep” George (May 1, 1925 — June 1, 1985) was born in North Battleford and worked with the New York Rangers, NHL Central Scouting and Hartford Whalers.
The Rangers hired him in September 1969 as the Western Canadian director of scouting, filling the spot
created when Denis Ball was promoted to assistant GM.
George moved to Central Scouting in 1975, then joined Hartford from 198184.
With his brother William (Moe), George founded Battlefords’ first junior hockey program, the Beaver Bruins, in 1954.
He was a prolific scorer in intermediate and senior ranks with the North Battleford Beavers in the late 1940s and into the 1950s.
George was inducted into the SJHL Hall of Fame in 2024, along with his son, David, and David’s son, Michael.
Telephone: 306-445-7261 • Fax: 306-445-3223 e-mail: adtakers@newsoptimist.ca
He earned his nickname while working in Thunder Bay during the Second World War, picking up and installing cockpit parts. When doing the pickups, he always drove a Jeep.
David George noted scouts are an integral part of hockey.
“If you don’t have scouts, you don’t have players,” he said. “What’s most important is you get the good report on the player your team potentially wants. And if there’s not a good report, you don’t draft them.”
He said what his dad enjoyed most about scouting was simply the game.
Continued on page 18
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Albert “Jeep” George. | SaskToday staff
A bevy of things to see at the Northwest Territorial Days fair
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD–
There was plenty of fun and merriment on Friday for people attending the Northwest Territorial Days fair in North Battleford.
At Rotary International’s Spudnuts booth, Rotarians and volunteers were busy making sweet Spudnuts for people to enjoy.
Rotarian Harvey Walker, with the Rotary Club of the Battlefords, said he has been helping at the Spudnuts booth for 15 years now.
“It’s camaraderie,” he said. “We have a great time meeting people at the counter, and
[I enjoy] the camaraderie within the booth.”
Six people in the room next door to the booth are kept busy shaping the dough into large donut-sized treats.
“It’s a good feeling,” said Walker.
He appreciates knowing the net proceeds from sales benefit the Rotary Club, which sponsors many community projects and programs.
Kids taking in the fair had a chance to enjoy the rides, snack on their favourite foods, and even go for a pony ride.
Brooke Barker, who works with Meadowcroft Pony Rides and Barnyard Animals,
has been doing this for four years so far.
Nine ponies were ready for rides at the fair on Friday.
“I love seeing how happy it makes the kids,” Barker said. “They get so excited because lots of kids have not ridden a horse before. So it’s nice to give them that experience.”
Meadowcroft Pony Rides is a family business owned by Barker’s mother-in-law and her mother-in-law’s boyfriend.
Barker noted the ponies are all very tame, and are ideal for giving rides.
“They’ve been doing this a long time,” she said. “They are working horses, so they know their job.”
Property crimes, crimes against persons lead RCMP calls for service
By SaskToday staff
BATTLEFORDS — Battlefords RCMP had a busy week responding to calls. Between Aug. 11 and Aug. 17, RCMP responded to 558 calls for service. This included:
• 89 property crimes
• 24 crimes against a person
• 10 reports of stolen vehicles, six of which have been recovered
• Eight reports of missing people, all of whom have been located
• 32 foot patrols, many of which occurred during the Northwest Territorial Days Of the 558 calls for service, 375 were in the City of North Battleford and 183 in the rural area, including the town of Battleford.
Investigators ask anyone with information about these incidents, or any other crime, to call the Battlefords RCMP at 306-446-1720 or 911 in the case of an emergency. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
WANTED INDIVIDUAL
The following alleged offender is wanted by Battle-
fords RCMP. This individual has active warrants and may be living in the Battlefords detachment area.
Creighton Samuel BullFrank Age: 27
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 245 lbs.
Hair: Brown Eyes: Brown Scars/tattoos: Numerous face tattoos, including a teardrop below the left eye and “BULL” above the left eye
May be in these communities: Moose Jaw, Little Pine First Nation, and North Battleford
Alleged offences: Forcible confinement x2, uttering threats x2, theft of motor vehicle, theft under $5,000, unauthorized possession of firearm, possession of a weap-
on for a dangerous purpose, fail to comply with probation order x2, fail to comply with release order, possession of firearm while knowing unauthorized, weapons possession contrary to order x2.
If you see this individual, do not approach. Report all sightings and information about his whereabouts to local police by calling 310RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Battlefords Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) members conducted three hours of patrol during this timeframe, covering 229
blocks. COPP members also set up the Child Re-Unite at the Northwest Territorial Days. Sixteen patrollers participated, volunteering more than 150 hours. About 4,000 wristbands were given out to children, with between 75 and 100 calls placed to caregivers to reunite children with their families.
If you are interested in becoming a COPP member, visit the City of North Battleford or Town of Battleford websites.
The City of North Battleford сommunity safety officers reported 38 calls for service. They had four requests from RCMP for assistance. The officers spent 36 hours patrolling the Northwest Ter-
Help keep the Battlefords GREEN
ritorial Days, assisting RCMP by transporting several arrested individuals to the detachment, freeing up officers for proactive patrols. They also assisted citizens on patrol in
Police
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Kids enjoy the rides on the midway on Aug. 15.
Brooke Barker, of Meadowcroft Pony Rides, with pony “Cairo” on Aug. 15. | Photos by Angela Brown
Rotarian Harvey Walker, left, with volunteer Dominic Rye at the Spudnuts booth on Friday.
locating one lost child during the fair.
are passing this information along on behalf of the City of North Battleford community safety officers.
Creighton Samuel BullFrank. | Photo submitted by Saskatchewan RCMP
North Battleford parade marks 135 years of community spirit
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
BATTLEFORD
NORTH
— The Battlefords Agricultural Society’s annual Northwest Territorial Days Parade in North Battleford went off without a hitch on Aug. 12.
Families lined the streets to take in the festivities.
This marked the 135th year of the parade, which saw more than 100 entries, including floats, horses and cars. The theme this year was What Dreams Are Made Of.
Barb Daly-Milley took in the sights and sounds with her son, Breton Milley, and her husband, Dale Loucks. She has been coming to the parade for about 28 years.
“It’s good to see the community out and everybody enjoying it. You get to see people you don’t see often, and see people out and about and enjoying themselves,” Daly-Milley said.
Sharon Taylor, who was also watching the parade, has been attending for roughly 45 years — most of her life.
“We moved here [to North Battleford] in 1974,” she said. “My mom used to work for the River Heights Lodge, and I was in every parade before I realized you
can actually watch a parade.”
Taylor used to walk with the River Heights Lodge display as well as with the Girl Guides and other organizations for about 12 years.
Now, she enjoys having a seat and admiring the parade.
“I love the community spirit,” she said. “I love all the effort that people put into decorating. I want to recognize that I know how much work that takes. I really appreciate that they’ve done that.”
Participants on the Battlefords Immigration Resource Centre’s float blow bubbles to get into the spirit during the parade.
Threshing demo brings farming history to life in North Battleford
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— Bruce Kemmer may only be in his 60s, but he has a passion for farming techniques used in the olden days, dating back to the early 1900s.
He was one of many volunteers involved in the threshing demonstration at History in Motion at the Western Development Museum in North Battleford on the weekend.
“I guess it brings back the memories of days gone by,” Kemmer said. “I never experienced it because my grandparents already had modern equipment, but they always talked about the good old days.”
Threshing is a farming technique used to separate the wheat from the chaff.
“The way farming started out in western Canada, they would grow the grain and cut it with a binder,” Kemmer said. “And it would be cut into sheaves. The sheaves would sit out in the field. People would have to stook them [bundle and stack them so they could air dry].”
Crews would then bring the wheat to the separator to thrash it, separating the grain from the straw.
Kemmer learned the art of threshing when he was just 18 years old. That’s when he started running steam engines.
What he enjoys most about threshing is the camaraderie.
“It’s a lot of fellowship with other people,” he said. “It [threshing] helps demonstrate to some younger people what it was like in the old days when farming started out in western Canada.”
Visitors to History in Motion also had a chance to see a variety of other practices from days gone by, such as blacksmithing.
Volunteer Carry Grant has been a blacksmith for 20 years.
He said what he likes about the craft is making things and “seeing the look on somebody’s face when you give them what you made, what they asked for.”
Some of the items he has made include knives, hand banisters and handrails.
Grant, who is from Wilkie, currently lives in the Swift Current area.
He first learned blacksmithing from a friend in Swift Current.
“I just picked up a forge and started forging,” he said.
Barb Daly-Milley, centre, took in the sights with her son Breton Milley, left, and her husband Dale Loucks, right. | Photo by Angela Brown
Christian churches in the Battlefords came together for song with this float.
Right to left, Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie, joins North Battleford Coun. Kent Lindgren, and Little Pine First Nation Chief Donny Ironchild in the parade.
A threshing machine is shown in motion at the Western Development Museum on Sunday. | Photos by Angela Brown
Volunteer Bruce Kemmer is shown beside a threshing machine that dates back to about 1910.
Volunteer Carry Grant shows the art of blacksmithing at the Western Development Museum on Aug. 17.
WSA releases Ag Water Stewardship Policy
By Ryan Kiedrowski
Journalism
Turtleford Summer Cattle Show 2025
Submitted by Jean Walker
The 15th Annual Turtleford Summer Cattle Show was held on Saturday August 9, 2025, at the Turtleford Ag. Society Grounds.
There were 117 head of cattle taking part in the one-day show. We also welcomed a few new exhibitors to our show.
The Judge for the day was Rhett Jones from Lanigan, SK.
SaskToday.ca
Agriculture in Saskatchewan plays a lead role in economic stability and environmental sustainability, it’s the fabric of rural communities, says the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.
The Northern Livestock Sales Open Jackpot Commercial Bred Heifer Competition (Pen of Three) had
SARM says it shares the responsibility of ensuring producers are given the opportunity to succeed.
One in eight jobs in Saskatchewan is tied to agriculture, underscoring how deeply it affects the vibrance of rural economics, SARM says.
9 entries this year.
Yeti cooler and mineral tub.
“Producers already play the game of risk with weather, disease, feed shortages and price fluctuations. For the livestock industry to continue to thrive, we need the right business risk management resources tailored to them.”
Diamond 7 Meats of Lloydminster donated and prepared the beef that was served at our noon dinner for all our competitors and sponsors. NorthStar Genetics of Saskatoon donated and cooked the French fries. The Turtleford Credit Union donated the bottled water for the event. The Turtleford Co-op donated the coffee and doughnuts for our afternoon coffee break. Hig-Hog Farm Equipment donated a 12 ft. heavy duty gate and RioMax Canada donated a
“Spotty rains can provide a false sense of security and allow policymakers to delay implementation.
The committee consisting of Randy Noble, Larry Macnab, Blaine Harland, Harry Lake, Darryl Roach, Jeff Jamieson, Kelly Svoboda and Jeff Bloom appreciate the support of the competitors and sponsors for bringing such high-quality cattle to our show again this year and would welcome any suggestions regarding improving our show for next year.
climate variability, market fluctuations and evolving regulatory frameworks.
If the province of Saskatchewan wants a healthy, thriving beef cattle sector, BRM programs must be addressed now to stem the tide of producers leaving the industry and allow for long-term planning.”
The Turtleford Coop supplied us with their corral panels for the show.
SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!
The next step in supporting the livestock industry is establishing made-in-Saskatchewan solutions, SARM says. The organization lists options that could be implemented to support the industry in the coming calendar year:
Class 1: British 2yr old Cow with bull calf
“Producers play a pivotal role in the fabric of our province, we can’t deny the frustrations in our agriculture sector with the lack of business risk management resources, particularly for cattle producers in the province,” says Bill Huber, acting president of SARM.
The livestock industry has dealt with drought resulting in feed shortage, an exit of producers from the industry, a turnover of land from grass to crop, and non-transparent pricing, SARM asserts. SARM says the government should support livestock producers on the same playing field as other commodity producers.
1st: Double RN
2nd: Honeybrook Angus
3rd: Stuart Cattle Station
Class 2: European 2yr old with bull calf
“The current eight years of drought has exposed the lack of responsive business risk management programs for Saskatchewan’s livestock producers,” says Jeff Yorga, president of Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association.
1st: Brooks Simmentals
2nd Double RN
3rd: Blackgold Simmental
4th: Red Willow Ranch
Class 3: Mature Purebred British Cow with bull calf
1st: Ironsight Ranching
2nd: Bar SK Cattle
3rd: Diamond B Ranches
4th: Pine Island Angus
Class 4: Mature Purebred European Cow with bull calf
1st: Blackgold Simmental
2nd: Blackgold Simmental
3rd: Brooks Simmentals
4th: Red Willow Ranch
Class 5– Open Jackpot Purebred Cow with Heifer Calf
1st: 20/20 Angus
2nd: Brooks Simmentals
3rd: Flying S Ranch
4th: Diamond B Ranches
The province leads the nation in various agricultural outputs, including livestock. In 2021 alone, agriculture contributed over $13 billion to Saskatchewan’s GDP, employing thousands across the province directly and indirectly.
• Cost share livestock price insurance
Turtleford Summer Cattle Show 2025 Results
• Fast track the satellite-based forage rainfall pilot
Class 6: SK Angus Association
that support producers, promote research and development, and enhance market access. Agriculture is crucial for Saskatchewan’s prosperity and growth. We need the government to support agriculture by investing in the future of our livestock industry. If we can foster programs that encourage producers to stay in the game, the ripple effect will enhance rural communities, foster economic resilience, and ensure Saskatchewan remains a global leader in
The struggles of producers should not be overshadowed, they are a pillar of prosperity for the province, SARM says. SARM says it wants a future with livestock pro ducers given ample opportunity for BRM programming that assists in price transparency, risk support for
Open Jackpot Commercial Cow with Heifer Calf
1st: Toby Grant
• Implement Alberta’s beef-focused AgriStability pilot in Saskatchewan Work with Ag Canada to speed the development of the revenue
2nd: Tyson Morin
3rd: Chase Bannerman
“We must address these challenges and the risks producers face,”
4th: Dwayne Kobes
Class 7: Jackpot Halter Heifer
1st: Finn Pratt
2nd: Keylen Eaton
3rd: Ella Grant
4th: Briggs Blanchette
Class 8: Open Jackpot Commercial Bred Heifer (Pen of Three)
1st: Little Willow Creek
2nd: Steve Harty
3rd: Tyson Morin
4th: Double RN
HarvestSeasonUnderwayin Saskatchewan
As har vestbeginsthis year,wewanttothankallproducers,farmfamiliesandagriculturalworkerswho contributeto Saskatchewan’s economic growthand expor tstrength. We also want to remind youofsupportslikethe FarmStressLine, whichprovidesfree,confidentialassistancetoproducers24/7 at 1-800-667-4442.Asyour Saskatchewan PartyMLAs, we encourageyou to makesafetyapriorityduringthisbusyseason. Findtipsand resourcesat saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety
|
Photo by Anastasiia Byk-
2025 Harvest season under way in Saskatchewan
Today, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison, along with Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Kelvington-Wadena Chris Beaudry, officially kicked off harvest 2025 in Saskatchewan.
"Harvest time is a reminder of the importance of the agriculture sector to Saskatchewan's economy," Harrison said. "The sector is responsible for 10 per cent of the provincial economy and 41 per cent of our total global
exports. As harvest 2025 begins, I want to extend my appreciation to every producer, farm family and agricultural worker who contributes to the province's economic growth and export strength."
Producers and agricultural workers are reminded to prioritize safety during the busy harvest season. This includes taking frequent breaks, having adequate meals and sleep, having fire suppressing equipment on hand, watching for power lines when moving machinery and more. It is
also important to make sure that everyone keeps an eye out for large equipment on roads and highways.
Producers are reminded of mental health supports, such as the Farm Stress Line. The Farm Stress Line is available 24/7 to provide free, confidential support to producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.
You can follow the 2025 Crop Report on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) at @SKAgriculture or by going to www.saskatchewan. ca/crop-report.
250916C0
Saskatchewan Government
Photo by Dan Loran on Unsplash
Crop Report: August 5 - 11
Saskatchewan Government
Widespread rainfall in the province last week had varying impacts on crops. The rain was timely for later seeded crops as they continue to fill, but some producers are concerned about the potential impact on quality for early seeded crops.
Additionally, rainfall slowed desiccation operations and other field work in many areas. Most producers welcomed the rainfall but are waiting for warm and dry weather to support crop development.
Most of the province received plenty of rain last week. The Beatty area received the most with 105 millimetres (mm), followed by the Calder area with 103 mm and the Star City area with 102 mm. The Bruno, Prince Albert and Saskatoon areas all received 90 mm of rain or more.
The abundance of rain dramatically increased topsoil moisture levels last week.
Provincial cropland topsoil moisture now sits at 11 per cent surplus, 75 per cent adequate, 11 per cent short and only three per cent very short. For hayland, topsoil moisture is eight per cent surplus, 68 per cent adequate, 16 per cent short and eight per cent very short. Pastures have topsoil moisture levels at six per cent surplus, 67 per cent adequate, 19 per cent short and eight per cent very short.
Some producers made harvest progress this week, with two per cent of crops harvested, which is behind the provincial five- and 10-year averages. The combination of rainfall and slow crop development last week prevented more crops from being harvested, but it is still early in the harvest season. Most of the progress has been made in the southwest, but some producers in the southeast and east-central are starting to take crop off. No producers in the west-central and northern regions have started harvesting yet, but they anticipate crops to be ready within the next couple of weeks if conditions are favourable.
Winter cereals continue to lead harvest progress, with 16 per cent of winter wheat and 14 per cent of fall rye harvested. Producers also made progress in pulse crops harvesting, with three per cent of lentil and pea crops off. Finally, the first acres of spring cereal and oilseed crops were harvested last week. Two per cent of barley and one per cent of spring wheat and canola have been combined in the province.
Most producers are either done or finishing their last haying and silaging efforts.
Provincially, dryland alfalfa yields are 1.10 tonnes per acre and greenfeed yields are 2.09 tonnes per acre. For irrigated hay crops, alfalfa yielded 1.95 tonnes per acre
while greenfeed yielded 2.95 tonnes per acre. Silage yields for the province this year are estimated to be 5.25 tonnes per acre.
Environmental conditions were the main sources of crop damage last week. Excess moisture in crops caused the most frequent crop damage, but damage was minor and not widespread. Also, hard rainfall paired with strong winds caused minor crop lodging in parts of the province. There was also grasshopper and bertha armyworm activity in certain areas which required some producers to spray for these pests.
Harvest is a busy time in Saskatchewan, and everyone is reminded to prioritize safety this fall.
The Farm Stress Line is a toll-free number that producers can use to help manage their stress during this busy time, which can be reached at 1-800-667-4442. Producers should be aware of physical hazards, such as fire and powerlines, and take preventative measures to avoid incidents. The public is reminded that there is more heavy equipment traffic on roads during harvest and to be patient by giving machinery extra time and space.
A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online.
Follow the 2025 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.
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Alta. murder suspect arrested in North Battleford
Ashton Deschamps was arrested in North Battleford after fleeing Alberta. | Alberta RCMP
By Lisa Joy Freelance Reporter
NORTH BATTLEFORD
– Alberta RCMP Major Crimes arrested murder suspect Ashton Deschamps, 20, in North Battleford, Sask.
According Alberta
RCMP, 31-year-old Chanse Twins of Emineskin First Nation was killed on Aug. 13 on Louis Bull First Nation, Alta. At about 2:30 p.m. on that day, Maskwacis RCMP were dispatched to a firearms complaint at
a home on Louis Bull First Nation. EMS also responded. When they arrived, a male was located deceased.
Southern Alberta RCMP Major Crimes Unit took over the investigation and police released a photo of Deschamps saying he was wanted and known to frequent North Battleford, Maskwacis, and Edmonton. He is charged with second-degree murder.
RCMP say Deschamps will appear in court and then will be escorted back to Alberta.
Farm Credit Canada extends support for canola producers
By Karen Briere
Western Producer
The
REGINA — Farm Credit Canada has extended its Trade Disruption Customer Support program to canola producers.
The federal crown lender announced Aug. 19 that its decision comes after continued global trade disruption, including new Chinese tariffs on canola seed.
Chief executive officer Justine Hendricks said the uncertainty creates real pressure on cash flow and operations for farms, agribusinesses and food processors.
“Our role is to ensure our customers, and the broader industry, have access to the capital and flexibility they need to adapt, stay competitive and keep delivering high-quality products to markets at home and abroad,” she said.
Existing customers and new clients who meet the lending criteria are eligible for the additional help. This includes access to an additional credit line of up to $500,000 and new term loans. Existing customers may defer principal payments for up to 12 months on their loans.
FCC said it will continue to work with industry partners to navigate changing market conditions.
The federal crown lender announced Aug. 19 that its decision comes after continued global trade disruption, including new Chinese tariffs on canola seed. | File photo
City councillor Ross MacAngus tenders resignation
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— North Battleford city
councillor Ross MacAngus has tendered his resignation, effective Aug. 31, citing personal reasons.
Council voted to receive his resignation during the Aug. 18 city council meeting.
MacAngus was elected to his second term on council in November 2024. With his resignation, the city is now poised to hold a by-election to fill his seat. According to The Cities Act, that must happen within six months of Aug. 31. Council will review potential by-election dates at its next meeting on Sept. 8.
Mayor Kelli Hawtin took the opportunity to thank MacAngus for his service on behalf of the City of North Battleford.
"You've not only had nearly five years serving as a councillor, but many years as a bylaw officer and community safety officer for the city," she said. "We just want to really thank you for your time in public service and wish you well after August 31."
Meanwhile, MacAngus has been dealing with a personal legal matter in the court system. The matter relates to an RCMP report received in September 2024. MacAngus was originally facing a charge of sexual assault. He instead pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of common assault on June 25, 2025, in North Battleford provincial court. The matter has been adjourned for sentencing on Sept. 4.
Ross MacAngus. | City of North Battleford
NDP concerned about service disruptions at rural and remote hospitals
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLE -
FORD–The Saskatchewan
NDP is raising issues about rural and remote healthcare disruptions during a tour of the local area.
Saskatchewan NDP Shadow Minister for Rural
and Remote Health Jared Clarke spoke outside the Battlefords Union Hospital during a visit to North Batleford on Aug. 12.
“Over the coming weeks, I’ll be visiting as many rural and northern communities and cities like North Battleford to shine a light on the service closures that are
hurting families and putting lives at risk,” he said. “Because make no mistake, we are in a healthcare crisis and the Sask Party government is making it worse. Over the past six years, we’ve seen increasing numbers of service disruptions in maternity wards, ERs, diagnostic labs, surgical units, CT and
Police look for individual following reported sexual assault
By SaskToday staff
JACKFISH LAKE — Battlefords RCMP are investigating following a reported sexual assault near Jackfish Lake.
They are asking the public to help identify the individual in the sketch shown, which was completed by a Saskatchewan RCMP forensic artist.
Police would like to speak to the individual in relation to an investigation into a report of a sexual assault that occurred in mid-July near Jackfish Lake.
The individual is described as a male, possibly
in his 20s or 30s, between 6’ and 6’2” with a medium build, and dirty blonde hair.
If you think you recognize the individual depicted in the sketch, please contact Battlefords RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP.
Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
As this is an active and ongoing investigation, and to be mindful of the privacy of those involved, police say they are unable to provide any additional details at this time, nor can they provide specifics as to why
Shown is a sketch of a person police are looking to identify. | Photo submitted by Saskatchewan RCMP
police wish to speak with this individual. As always, if the investigation determines an imminent public safety risk exists, police will notify the public.
MRI scanners, and so much more. Now these aren’t isolated incidents, they are part of a dangerous pattern that’s putting care further and further out of reach for rural and remote communities.”
Clarke said in the last 18 months, there have been 643 disruptions to healthcare facilities lasting 3,362 days.
“What started as ER and surgical closures has now expanded into almost every part of our health care system,” he said.
Clarke noted the Battlefords Union Hospital experienced 609 days of healthcare disruptions.
“Now it’s unusual for service disruptions in the province to be longer than 10 days, but 13 of the Union Hospital’s 44 disruptions ranged from 11 to 151 days. And the longest disruption between June and November of 2019 to intensive care services lasted 151 days,” he said. “Now between 2022 and February of 2023, there was a 48-day outage to intensive care and a 33-day outage for CT scans.”
Clarke said the Sask Party needs to advise people if there are disruptions to
services and closures at hospitals.
“People show up at their local hospital because they need care,” he said. “And what they’re finding is a sign on the front door telling them that services are not available.”
Saskatchewan Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill told SaskToday that the province is working on solutions to heathcare service disruptions.
“We are working hard to address these issues and seeing success I would say through the virtual physician program in many rural communities, through point-of-care lab testing, which allows more lab work to happen in the emergency room as opposed to waiting for a traditional lab result, and then most importantly through the rural and remote recruitment incentive,” he said.
He also noted that North Battleford “is the most successful community in the province” in terms of filling full-time positions through the rural and remote recruitment incentive program.
“We have filled 98 positions, full-time positions
in the healthcare sector, just in North Battleford alone over the last couple of years through our incentives,” Cockrill said. “Eight of those positions are just since the first of April.”
Cockrill was critical of the NDP for not providing any plan or solutions themselves.
“They should go back to Regina and not come back until they have ideas,” he said. “We never hear ideas from them; we never hear a plan on what they would do.”
“I think it’s important the government is responding with innovative solutions...,” he added. “Patients and communities are looking for innovative responses to the challenges in healthcare that we see. That’s why we’re focused on that.”
Cockrill said that’s why the province continues to use initiatives like point-ofcare testing and the virtual physician program.
‘That’s why we have the rural and remote incentive,” he added, “to make sure that we can fill positions and make sure that services are there for people when they need it closer to home.”
Kids get creative in “Art is Messy” class
By Averil Hall Freelance Reporter-Photographer
Art is Messy is a two-part class in making sculptures held August 13–14 at the Don Ross Centre Craft Room for children ages 8 to 13.
The class is led by Aleksi Anseth with assistant Sandra Shih-Dodsworth. Anseth says they run a variety of youth programs in North Battleford, as well as programs for adults and teens. This art class has the highest attendance of the summer with 16 participants. “It’s a project parents probably wouldn’t want to do at home, so it gives kids a chance to try something that does make a big mess without stressing out the parents,” Anseth says.
Pull out: “It’s a project parents probably wouldn’t want to do at home so it gives the kids a chance to try something that does make a big mess without stressing out the parents” (Aleksi Anseth).
On day one, students first plan their sculptures by drawing their ideas on paper. Secondly, they create practice sculptures using plasticine. Next, they make tin foil and tape armatures as a base. The armatures are covered in paper mâché made from newspaper, glue, and water. Many children say the glue mixture feels unusual at first. The sculptures are left to dry overnight.
On the second day, students paint their sculptures with acrylic craft paint. They are able to let their imaginations go as they explore the vibrancy of colour and they are free to make a big mess with the paint too. All completed projects are taken home at the end of class.
The next program is a Back to School craft class on August 20, where participants make pencil pouches, key chains, and binders. The class is already full, but a waitlist is available.
On August 25 from 1 to 5 p.m., there is a half-day class called Man’s Best Friend, where students create portraits of dogs in different styles and mediums. Space is still available.
For more information, call 306-445-1760.
Maddy Hadley and Spencer Stebanuk, two friends from Warman, visiting their grandparents in North Battleford show their sculpture masterpieces. | Photos by Averil Hall
Maddy Hadley creates an armature base with tin foil and tape to form a plant and pot.
Spencer Stebanuk mixes the glue and water together.Spencer Stebanuk wraps newspaper with glue on to her sculpture of Mickey Mouse.
Maddy Hadley wipes off the excess glue from the newspaper before applying it to the sculpture base.
Poilievre easily wins Battle RiverCrowfoot byelection
SaskToday staff
BATTLE RIVER–CROWFOOT–Pierre Poilievre has achieved a massive victory in the Battle River-Crowfoot federal byelection.
There are 214 candidates on the ballot in the by-election. Poilievre easily won his attempt to return to Parliament after losing in Carleton in the April 28 election.
At the end of the night, Poilievre won the byelection with more than 80 per cent of the vote count.
Poilievre came in with 40,548 votes, followed by Independent Bonnie Critchley with 5,013 votes, and Liberal Darcy Spady with 2,174 votes, based on the preliminary results from Elections Canada.
The NDP’s Katherine Swampy garnered 1,050 votes, the United Party of Canada’s Grant Abraham 773, the People’s Party’s Jonathan Bridges 137 votes, the Green Party’s Ashley MacDonald 116 votes, the Libertarian’s Michael Harris 102 votes and the Christian Heritage Party’s Jeff Willerton 91 votes, among the votes counted.
-With files from John Cairns
North Battleford gets grant for regional project planning
By SaskToday staff
NORTH
BATTLEFORD
— The City of North Battleford has announced it has been successful in applying for a Targeted Sector Support Initiative grant through the province to assist with developing ownership, management and operating structures for large regional infrastructure projects, including a proposed arena and events centre, regional care centre and other projects.
As announced by the province on Aug. 6, the City of North Battleford was named one of 19 successful recipients of funding through the Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative, the city said in a news release.
The grant, initially brought to city council for application approval in April 2025, will allow the city and other regional stakeholders to work with an external company to formalize ownership, governance, management and funding structures for upcoming large-scale infrastructure projects planned for the Battlefords.
The city’s application, Advancing Inter-Community Governance and Regional Collaboration in the Battlefords, has been awarded just over $75,468.75 through the TSS Initiative — the maximum of 75 per cent of total project costs. The City of North Battleford is responsible for the remaining 25 per cent.
The project will focus on the proposed regional arena and events centre as its pilot, with an ownership and governance structure to be developed
in collaboration with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and Tribal Councils.
“The receipt of this grant will allow us to move forward with planning for a regionally owned and operated arena and events centre, while also helping us develop a model for regional collaboration on ownership, operations and governance of major infrastructure projects,” said North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin in the release.
“Traditionally, such projects have been owned and managed by a single municipality. With significant initiatives now being discussed in our region, it is essential that we work together to leverage our collective strengths and assets to make them a reality. We are grateful for the partnership of the Town
of Battleford and the RM of North Battleford in supporting this funding, and to the Province of Saskatchewan for this funding. This support will help us create a framework — built by our communities, for our communities — to guide the ownership and management of projects like a regional arena and events centre, a regional care centre and other initiatives that will shape a bright future for the Battlefords.”
Awarded twice yearly, the province’s TSS Initiative requires formalized partnerships as part of the application. The City of North Battleford received formal support for its project from the councils of the Town of Battleford and the RM of North Battleford 437, along with a letter of support from the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition.
Pierre Poilievre. | Facebook photo
North Battleford city hall. | Photo by Averil Hall
Museum members prepare for Sept. 3 corn roast
By Kathy Utri Correspondent
Katherine “Katie” Meynberg passed away at Pine Island Lodge, Maidstone, on Aug. 9, 2025, at the age of 100 years. Condolences are extended to her children: Richard Meynberg, David (Sharon) Meynberg, Jane (Laurence) Fulton and Ralph Meynberg; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; her brothers: Frank Hafner and Doug Hafner; and numerous other family. We remember Katie as a quiet, private woman who loved her family, her church, plants and gardening, music and dancing even in her latter years. A memorial service for Katie will take place in Maidstone Legion Hall on Thursday, Aug. 28, at 2 p.m.
Margaret MacEachern of Maidstone and her children, Hazel from Saskatoon, Ken from Cold Lake and Duncan from Marsden, attended her sister, Beth Piché’s 104th birthday party on Saturday, Aug. 16. Beth’s three daughters and their families all attended the celebration at River Heights Lodge in North Battleford. Beth enjoyed the whole day and is looking forward to another wonderful year. Happy 104th, Beth. Maidstone Museum held a board meeting on Aug.13 with eight members present. Many tours have been provided this summer with
visitors from England, Germany, Ontario (Red Lake), British Columbia (Kelowna), Alberta (Cold Lake, Edmonton, Lac La Biche, Rivercourse) and numerous others from all over Saskatchewan. The buildings and grounds have been well-maintained, despite the need for additional repairs following the damaging hail in July. Most flowers have recuperated and
filled in beautifully. The tubs planted by Grade 1-2 students are producing their bounty: so far, celery and a small pumpkin have been harvested. Thanks to anyone who has helped at the museum this summer; there’s always much work to be done. Plans were finalized for the annual corn roast and fall market on Wednesday, Sept. 3. Several vendors will be open by the
deck from 3:30 to 7 p.m. and the corn roast meal will be served from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Your meal will consist of a cob of corn, a burger or hot dog, a drink and an ice cream cup, all for $15. If you want takeout, please bring your own containers and bags. The next museum meeting will be on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. A fall clean-up will be planned. All are welcome to attend.
About 20 people gathered for an afternoon of music on Sunday, Aug. 17, at Maidstone Museum. The Yellowhead Ramblers entertained us with popular songs from the past. Band members are Rodney Ferguson (electric guitar), Alan Hinde (laptop steel guitar), Jean McPherson (keyboard/ vocals/music coordinator), Colin Venebles (vocals), Peter Strybosch (drums/vocals) and Bill Mc-
Gilvery (fiddle/harmonica/ mandolin/vocals). Following the music, everyone enjoyed some delicious refreshments and visiting.
Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary’s online food auction is up for a sneak preview of the items. I checked out the 61 items as of Monday, Aug. 18 and oh my, what delicious choices! Go to www.32auctions.com/ Maidstonehealthcare and set up an account or log in if you already have one. It’s easy. Bidding opens on Monday, Aug. 25, at 9 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3. The auxiliary is excited and thankful for all the generous donations from our community to help purchase patient care items and a new blood analyzer for the lab.
Upcoming: There is no farmers market at Silver Lake on Saturday, Aug. 23, due to the St. Walburg Blueberry Festival. Future farmers markets will depend on vendor availability. Remember to take your donation of school supplies to Making Waves Salon for Student Fresh Start. On Saturday, Aug. 30, Linda is doing free haircuts for students and they will choose school supplies they need from those donated. The event will end on Aug. 30.
Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary’s pie bingos start Wed. Sept.10 and run weekly till Oct. 22.
Two North Battleford hockey scouts join 2025 Wall of Honour
Continued from page 4
“He just watched hockey,” he said. “He loved the game. Our family has been involved since forever. My dad played, my uncle played, we all played.”
Another 2025 inductee from North Battleford is Al Tuer.
According to his biography, Tuer was born in North Battleford and began his scouting career (1999-2000) with NHL Central Scouting.
He joined the Calgary Flames as an amateur scout (2001-10).
Tuer followed that with 11 seasons with the Florida Panthers as a pro scout, then head pro scout and director of professional scouting.
He has been a pro scout with the New York Rangers since 2021.
As a player, Tuer spent two-plus seasons with the WHL’s Regina Pats, racking up 486 penalty minutes in 1981-82.
His 12-season professional playing career included one goal in 57 games split between the Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota North
and chief scout, Tim Lenardon, Scout and John Chapman coach Centennial cup champs, Western hockey league and memorial cup champs, Philadelphia Flyers chief scout. They are all either directors or board members. | Photo submitted by David George
Stars and Hartford Whalers.
After retiring as a player, Tuer spent five seasons (1993-98) as GM/head coach of the Moose Jaw
Yellowhead Ramblers at Maidstone Museum on Sunday, Aug. 17. In the band are Rodney Ferguson (electric guitar), Alan Hinde (laptop steel guitar), Jean McPherson (keyboard, vocals, music co-ordinator), Colin Venables (vocals), Peter Strybosch (drums, vocals) and Bill McGilvery (fiddle, harmonica, mandolin, vocals). | Photo by Kathy Utri
Warriors and one with the Tri-City Americans. His father, the late Graham Tuer, was a 2024 Wall of Honour inductee.
David George posthumously accepts the award for his father Albert “Jeep” George. Pictured, from left to right, Dennis Beyak, Garth Malarchuk, Ron Delorme, David George, Tim Lenarndon and John Chapman. Dennis TV broadcaster Winnipeg Jets, Garth Malarchuk goaltender Toronto Maple Leafs, Ron Delorme Vancouver Canucks player
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We would like to give a special THANK YOU to Dr. Sadeghi, the nurses and allthe staff of the Turtleford hospital whowalked us through the hardest parts of ourlives with dignity and grace.
Thank you for all the support we received, including visits, prayers, phone calls, texts, food, cards, flowers,donations and words of encouragement It meant the world to us
Thank you to McCaw Funeral Service Ltd, who helped us plan this funeral, Denis LaClare for officiation, the organist Darc y de Montarnel, the communitychoir and the ladies who provided the lunch that we enjoyed.
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BEIER: Frank Beier passed away peacefully in the Battleford Union Hospital on July 23, 2025 at the age of 96. Frank was a real presence in our family and beloved by all. He was a long-standing member of the community contributing through his volunteer work. He was a dedicated highschool teacher for many years, and was often chatted up as his past students recognized him. While teaching he started a student outdoor venture and took a number of students into the wilderness every spring once they had mastered basic outdoor survival skills. He was part of the establishment of Battlefords Judo Club over 50 years ago, which is still active today and recognized by provincial and national Judo associations for its excellence. A number of Black Belt judoka graduated the club and competed in the sport. He was very proud of volunteering with The ECLIPSE Program which, through judo and counselling, helped at-risk youth in five Living Sky Schools. The essence of judo is "to make good use of your strength ..and look to the mutual benefit of yourself and others" which was his mantra throughout his life. He won a gold medal in the 12 Open Master Athlete Judo Championship in Montreal in 2010. He enjoyed all sorts of activities including cycling, crosscountry skiing, skating, hockey, camping, canoeing, hiking and gardening. He was proud of his robustness and ability to take on any activity that suited him. He biked over the Rocky Mountains with his friend Dirk Koenig and competed in a number of loppets in the winter. He shared his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren alike. He participated in TaiChi, QiGong and Aikido. He loved playing chess and appreciated the strategies and form of a masterful attack. He was proud of his Austrian heritage and had stories of fleeing Europe before WWII and settling in the Goodsoil area of Saskatchewan. Upon retirement he pledged to "learn something new" every year. He wrote some of his life stories, allowing his family a glimpse into pioneering life. He enjoyed telling stories and playing with his grandkids and great-grandkids. He loved to tease and "get a rise" out of those who appreciated his dry sense of humour. He loved to debate and would pick either side of a discussion "just for fun". He loved to dance and was an active part of the Club 70 and the Pioneer Club. Rita Peterson was his beloved dance partner and they enjoyed canoeing and fishing as well as a number of travel excursions over the last 12 years. He enjoyed seeing and talking to family using video-chat every Sunday afternoon. We all joined in regaling him with stories about what had happened the week before. Dad’s face would light up when he would see a screen full of his family and wanted to hear from every single one of us. He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley and his children Ivan, Wanda (George Jones), and Wendy (Darren Berar). He is survived by his daughters; Lana Beier (Karl) and Veronica Beier, grandchildren; David (Rhiannon) Risidore, Laura Risidore, Elizabeth Beier (Michael), Zackery Jones, Rebecca Beier-Berar (Zachary) and great-grandchildren; Logan & Madelyn Risidore, Mila Currie, Bodhi Patterson, Malikai Marcotte, and Wesley Beier-Berar. The family wish to thank the nursing staff and doctors at the Battlefords Hospital for their kindness and care during Frank’s time there. It was much appreciated. Frank did not want a memorial service, so the family is hosting a come and go luncheon at the North Battleford Legion hall on Saturday, August 23 from 2 to 4 p.m. There will be a slideshow and video retrospective of Frank’s life and an open mike for anyone who would like to share. Family members look forward to meeting all of Dad’s friends and students and to your stories.
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Lots of work all season. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844
Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca
Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association's Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.
I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way. Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com
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IntheEstateofJosephine Teresia Baranieski,lateof Warman, Saskatchewan,deceased. All claims againsttheaboveestate,duly verifiedbystatutorydeclarationandwith particularsandvaluationofsecurityheld,if any, mustbesenttotheundersignedbefore the 5th
2025. BattleRiverLaw FriedmanSpence Fransoo Barristers&Solicitors 201,1291-102ndStreet Box905 NorthBattleford,Saskatchewan S9A2Z3 SolicitorsfortheExecutors.
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INTHEESTATEOFALBERT GEORGE LASCELLE,lateofEDAMinthe ProvinceofSaskatchewan,deceased. ALLCLAIMSAGAINSTTHEABOVE ESTATE, dulyverifiedbystatutory declarationandwithparticularsand valuationofsecurityheld,ifany, must besenttotheundersignedbeforethe 11th dayofSeptember,2025. MIGNEAULT LAWOFFICE BarristersandSolicitors Box520 NORTHBATTLEFORD,Saskatchewan S9A2Y8 Solicitorsforthe PersonalRepresentative
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Wild weather for sailing lessons, but students persevere
Sask Sail teaches sailing on 420’s which are a two-person boat. Eventually students will be taking out Meota’s Lazor One sailboats or a Catamaran. Once you’ve learned to sail, there is equipment available at the clubhouse that members can take out. I noticed this year that not only were students wearing lifejackets, several were also wearing helmets.
| Photos by Trudy
Janssens
By Trudy Janssens Correspondent
A quick visit to the post office and its community bulletin board will keep
you informed about what’s happening in Meota. The Meota Medical Clinic is taking appointments for anyone who wants to see our nurse practitioner,
Layoya Durkop. You can make your appointment with the St. Walburg Medical Clinic (306-248-3434) and be seen on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cemetery bees continue throughout the summer months, with only two left. Aug, 27 and Sept, 11 are the last two dates of the season. Thanks to all the volunteers who take the time to help with the maintenance of the Meota cemetery.
Notices
PUBLICNOTICE
Highland dance classes are starting at the Meota Hall, Tuesday evenings from September to April. These classes are available
ResortVillageofAquadeoPublicNotice –PlanningandDevelopmentFeeBylaw PublicNoticeisherebygiventhattheCounciloftheResortVillageof Aquadeo(RV)intendstoadoptaPlanningandDevelopmentFeeBylaw undersection51of ThePlanningandDevelopmentAct,2007
INTENT: Thebylawwouldsetascheduleoffeesthatthe RV may charge relatedtothe reviewandprocessingofdevelopment-related matterswithintheRM.Feeswouldbeappliedtothe review,advertising, approval,enforcement, regulation,andissuanceof:developmentpermits, discretionaryuses,minorvariances,andamendmentstotheOfficial CommunityPlanandZoningBylaw. Rationaleforthefeeswillaccompany theproposedbylawandfeeswouldbeassignedonacost-recoverybasis. TheproposednewFeeBylawwould replacethatwhichhasbeeninplace since2018andmostfeeswouldbeincreasing.
REASON: The RV wishestoavailitselfofthelegislatedcost-recoverytool suchthatdevelopment reviewcostsareappropriatelybornebydevelopment proponents,therebyminimizingcostsforgeneralratepayers.Councilhas determinedthecurrentfeestructuretobeinsufficienttoaddresscosts andisintendingtoadjustitsfeestothisend.TheFeeBylawisalsobeing updatedto reflectthenewOfficialCommunityPlanandZoningBylaw recentlyadoptedbythe RV
PUBLICINSPECTION: Anypersonmayinspectthebylawatthe RV office during regularbusinesshours,excludingstatutoryholidays.Copieswillbe availabletothepublicatacostorbyemailingthe RV administratorand askingforacopy.Adigitalcopyofthedraftbylawandrationaleisavailable atthefollowingwebaddress:https://aquadeo.net/public-notices-%26-info.
PUBLICHEARING: Councilwillholdapublichearingon September19, 2025 at 10:00AM,tohearanypersonorgroupthatwantstocomment ontheproposedbylawandrationale.Thedeadlinefor receiptofwritten commentsand requestsfor representationatthemeetingmustbe received bythe RV officeby September10,2025.Foradditionalinformation, pleasecontact(306)386-2942oraquadeoadmin@gmail.com. Written submissionscanbemailedtoBox501,Cochin,SK,S0M0L0,oremailed totheaddressabove.
IssuedattheResortVillageofAquadeothis15th dayofAugust2025. AlexandriaBernier
ChiefAdministrativeOfficer–ResortVillageofAquadeo
Several strong volunteers and students pitched in to unload and reload the 420 boats that Sask Sail have in the Mobile Sailing School fleet. I was impressed by Tess Crooks as she navigated pulling this load as well as securing all the boats, masts and other equipment required to make a sailboat sail the waves. The team is preparing to load the Sask Sail’s safety boat. It’s very important to have equipment that is familiar and reliable.
for anyone aged three to 18. There are two terms: Term 1, September to December, three to six years is $60 and seven and older is $120. Term 2, January April, three to six years $70 and seven and older is $140. Check out the poster at the post office for additional information on how and where to register.
Meota Library is looking to hire a part-time librarian. Brenda is moving away and will be very missed, and we’re hoping someone else will step up to take her place.
It was also a huge surprise to me when I saw the poster that Meota is looking to hire a new chief administrative officer. This is a very challenging job and needs the right person. Our current administrator has done a fantastic job and is willing to stay on long enough to train someone new. I personally am very disappointed to see Kim go, but I do agree with her that you have to follow your dreams in life and you have to love what you do. Kim decided to follow her dreams and start a new adventure in her life. I wish her all the best.
I’m very excited to write about the very real successes that are happening at the Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail club. This week, we hosted two very successful learn to sail sessions.
The weather was challenging. Tornado warnings on Wednesday put a dint in some of the lessons, but after the storm, the boats were out right up to 8 p.m.
Thursday was an impossible day on the lake. High winds kept all classes in the boathouse, learning to tie knots and enjoying a pizza.
I wasn’t around the whole week, but the reports I had from our volunteers were wonderful. MLPS has now had three seasons in a row with sailing lessons put on by Sask Sail. I added it up and 40 people have taken the lessons. I almost said 40 people have learned to sail, but in some cases some of the students learned that sailing is a lot more challenging than what you see in the videos.
I can say that we are now really excited to be offering the lessons every year. This year, four Scout leaders and three Scouts took the lessons. The Scouts have
NOTICE
seven badges that they aim to accomplish, and sailing is the seventh badge. Up until now, they have not been able to achieve that badge. The instructors let me know that they will be working on signing up an entire class of 10 next year. Luckily, in conjunction with Sask Sail, we will be able to offer these much-needed classes for young people to learn to sail.
I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge our fantastic volunteers who make sailing lessons happen. Dennis Mercer is our 2025 sailing director and Dryden Kalesnikoff filled in whenever he could help. Sask Sail’s main instructor this year was Tess Crooks, from Ayrshire, Scotland. Elenie Lyle from Asquith, was back as an assistant, along with Jeff from the Regina Sailing Club. Sask Sail’s new sailing director, Karl Bardy, was in St. John’s for the Canada Games, but has assured me that he will be returning to Meota in 2026. It’s been a lot of work to get sailing off the water, but it’s very satisfying to watch young and old enjoy the sport.
TAKENOTICEthatthe Town ofHafford intendstoberegisteredas ownerundertheabove ActofthelanddescribedasLOT5-BLK/PAR23-PLANBX5553EXT0, TitleNo.155798623.
Themunicipality claimstitletothelandbyvirtueofaninterestbasedonthetaxlien registered againsttheexistingtitletothelandintheLand TitlesRegistryasInterest Number200903509andyouarerequiredto TAKENOTICE thatunlessyoucontestthe claimofthemunicipalityorredeemthelandpursuanttotheprovisionsoftheabove Actwithinsixmonthsfromtheserviceofthisnoticeonyouand,subjecttothefurther provisionsof The TaxEnforcementAct,acertificateoftitlewillbeissuedtothe applicant andyouwillthereafterbeforeverestoppedanddebarredfromsettingupany claimto,or inrespectof,theland.
Theamountrequiredtoredeemtheland maybeascertainedon applicationtotheClerk, TreasurerorAdministratorofthe municipality. Foranyquestionsaboutthetaxenforcement processpleasecontact Taxervice at 1-877-734-3113.
Datedthis5thdayofAugust,2025.
TownofHafford
Trailbazers horse ride at Diamond Resort, Aug. 29-31
By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent
The cooler-than-normal July didn’t bring much precipitation, but it seems that we have to beg for hot weather now. It would be nice to see no rain for a long time.
Ruddell’s annual wiener roast got cancelled due to a dumping of rain last Thursday. I guess one has to wait for August 2026. Nothing tastes better than eating hot dogs and salad during the summer months with neighbours and friends.
A last reminder of the “Trailbazers” horse ride at Diamond Resort, Aug. 29-31. This well-known popular resort is situated approximately 35 miles northeast of North Battleford on Highway 4 and Highway 378. Cost is $100 for a weekend pass, which includes free camping for the riders. A one-day pass for Saturday is $50, which includes breakfast, barbecue supper, nightly entertainment with Larry Krause and Chris Studer. The trail ride is 15 to 20 kilometres in length, but one doesn’t have to be a cowboy/gal to have fun in the outdoors. This resort has much to offer, so if you’ve never been there, please come check out this hidden gem in the rolling hills. Contact Jim Tomkins at 306.8417181 for more information. It’s happening rain or shine.
Aug. 12 was a special day for the former Whitkow hotel owner/operator. A customer could always rely on great-tasting Ukrainian food in that establishment. Ann Ewanchuk turned 97 years old and resides in a Battleford senior care home. May you get to celebrate many more birthdays, Ann Another birthday wish to Mary MacDonald of Rabbit Lake, who recently celebrated her 91st birthday. I’m sure many younger people ask these elderly ones, “What’s the secret to longevity?” I do not know these two women’s secrets, but I’ve come across some very elderly seniors saying, “A shot of brandy as a nightcap.” Again, one never knows, as there are many theories.
The annual Rabbit Lake Day drew a fair-sized crowd into that village last Saturday. One of the highlights was a bunnock tournament with many teams registered. First place winners receiving $300 were Ryan Woloshyn’s team, consisting of family members (youngest eight years of age). Many campers and cabin owners from nearby Meeting Lake Regional Park joined in the day’s festivities, ending with a delicious supper put on by the hall board.
I spent last weekend volunteering at the Northern Lights Bluegrass Mu-
sic Festival at Ness Creek. Northern Lights Bluegrass and Old Time Music Society are dedicated to promoting the rich traditions of this type of music. The excellent musicians come from as far away as Montreal, and their summer months are spent touring around entertaining at festivals, usually starting in British Columbia and making their way eastward. Unfortunately, the cooler rainy weather made for a smaller audience, but it was still fairly sized. Just past midnight on Saturday, the clouds broke loose and lightning struck forest trees near tenters, but they escaped without harm. I was blessed to book advance overnight accommodation in Big River, which meant a 20-minute drive from the festival site. Volunteering in the kitchen to make sure the musicians and volunteers and staff get well fed is rewarding. I was fortunate to chat with many musicians and ironically, some knew some acquaintances of mine. Good times were had by all, even if most campers went home damp.
The grass has revitalized to a dark green and is very
Keeping performers fed three meals a day is a high priority at Ness Creek. There is usually a two-hour timeframe, so there’s not a big lineup.
thick and lush due to the last two weeks of extra moisture. This means mowing the grass more frequently, but those dandelions are still coming in leaps and bounds. I hate to use pesticides on grass, so I am pulling the flowers — trying to get the complete plant out is very challenging
most
at
— and burning them with my household garbage. There are more than enough flowers for the bees in summer. Speaking of bees, many local beekeepers are advertising liquid and creamy honey for sale. Honey is much better and beneficial than using white refined sugar.
and
This French bilingual foursome had a lot of “Quebec” spirit to liven up the audience.The band name is “Veranda.” | Photos by Elaine Woloshyn
During the COVID pandemic, this young lad, Lachlan Neville from Rocanville, kept developing and refining his music skills. He is releasing a new album early this fall and is marking a big step in his music journey.
Sunday morning at
music festivals, gospel music is a must. Entertainers Ken and Esther provided the audience with song booklets to sing along with them. There were
least 17 groups of extremely talented musicians who performed on stage and they were all excellent. Bluegrass music is getting more
more popular with the younger generation.
Five Guys Named Dave is a lively old-time party band playing on fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin and upright bass with performances with toe-tapping rhythms and vibrant harmonies.
Arum Murray and Mitch Dureault call themselves Sharptail.” They are both from Saskatchewan and mostly tour in Western Canada.
Three out of 12 with different instruments doing back up music for the “ sing song circle” in Jack Milligan Hall, Ness Creek late Saturday afternoon, while performances were still going on the outside large stage — Carmen Bellhumeur (home unknown), Suzanne Baril and May Mah-Paulson from Victoria, Vancouver Island.
Radisson hosts annual agricultural fair Aug. 9 and 10
By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent
Radisson held their annual agricultural fair Aug. 9 and 10 with a parade, kids’ activities, mini tractor pull on Saturday.
Tractor pull results were: age three/four–Jett Pidwerbesky, age five/six–Emerick Antoneko, age seven/eight–Taylor Pidwerbesky and ages nine/10–Marieka Beaudoin.
There was a musical jamboree on Saturday and playing were Ed Neufeld & Friends, Cash Country, Janeva Murphy and AJ Gagnes. A beef supper was followed by a dance. On Sunday, there was a pancake breakfast, horse gymkhana (delayed from Saturday due to rain), vintage tractor pull, music jamboree with Gerald Wiebe, Norm & Golden Aces (Ed Neufeld and Russ Fountain), Russ McNutt and the Over the Hill Gang – Wilf and Joan Rice with the help of Ed and Russ.
The parade was led by Dale and Diane Keiper on horseback carrying the Canadian and Saskatchewan flags, followed by RCMP, TNT Centre wagon pulled by team of heavy horses, vintage cars, a truck advertising solar energy, Nutting family float dressed in beach wear throwing out Mardi Gras necklaces, Chev monster truck, International truck, vintage tractors – Farmall H,
John Deere, Massey Harris, International, Massey Harris pulling an old grader, Minneapolis Moline, Town of Radisson decorated truck, Radisson Car Wash, John Deere 60, Lakeland Library decorated car, Radisson Co-op vintage truck, Elevation Ag Service float, JH Machine Repairs, Radisson Skating Club float, Affinity Credit Union decorated car, horseback riders and decorated bike riders, Radisson Fire Department fire trucks, water and rescue trucks.
Condolences go out to the family of Kim Anderson, who lost her life in a tragic house fire on Aug. 8. Kim was the librarian at the Borden Lakeland Library and she will be greatly missed. Her service was Thursday, Aug. 14.
Borden Museum will again be burying a time capsule for the next 25 years and this is on Aug. 27 at 6 pm with free hot dogs and ice cream being featured. If you have articles to put in the time capsule, contact Karen Kerr at 306-997-5600 before Aug. 27.
Little Sprouts Early Childhood Learning Centre had an open house. 10:30 a.m. to noon on Aug. 15, handing out ice cream treats on the street, and you could also tour the facility. At present, they have 27 children enrolled and could take up to 33 when new staff are hired.
Members of the Nutting family are off to Hawaii during Radisson’s parade Aug. 9. | Photos by Lorraine Olinyk
TNT Centre team and wagon in the parade.
Flag bearers Dale and Diane Kieper, with the RCMP following to lead the parade.
Radisson Lakeland Library entered its van in the parade.
Radisson Skating Club with their parade entry.
Charges dismissed in $4M organized crime drug case near Maidstone
By SaskToday staff
BATTLEFORD — Charges were dismissed in the case against two men arrested in a suspected $4 million organized crime drug bust.
Sahilpreet Grewal, 19, and Parminder Singh, 20, both of Edmonton, appeared in the Court of King’s Bench in Battleford via teleconference on Aug. 15.
Grewal and Singh were
each charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.
Following a trial in June, Justice J.P. Morrall said in making his decision that what tipped the balance for him was the “lack of reasonable grounds in the case.”
He cited a lack of related evidence as a concern, noting the Crown had not proven its case against the two accused.
As a result, the judge dismissed the charges for both.
Police previously reported the Saskatchewan RCMP Roving Traffic Unit out of Maidstone conducted a traffic stop on Highway 16 near Maidstone on June 1, 2023, as part of an ongoing complex investigation by the Alberta RCMP Serious and Organized Crime Unit. Saskatchewan RCMP stopped the vehicle as it was headed west.
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UkrainianCatholicParishofAllSaints 902 -108thStreet,NorthBattleford DivineLiturgy:Sundaysata.m. Pastor:Rev.LeonidMalkov Office:1-306-343-6516
&104thStreet,NorthBattleford,SKS9A1S8 PASTOR:Rev.FatherMillanSajonasOffice:306-445-3836
The Court of King’s Bench in Battleford. | File photo / SaskToday.ca
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