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August 6 2026

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news-optimist Regional

Literacy pop-up camp in North Battleford aims to encourage kids to read

NORTH BATTLEFORD–North

Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin was the guest reader at a special Literacy Pop-Up Camp in North Battleford on July 30.

The event, put on by Light of Christ Catholic Schools, was held outside Holy Family School.

“I love it,” said Hawtin. “It’s great to see so many great summer programs for kids in our community.”

Kids sat around her as Hawtin read a book to them.

There was also an opportunity for the children to take a free book home with them.

The Pop-Up Camp has been running all month at various locations.

“I was told this morning they had 4,000 books at the beginning of the month and they’re down to just a few that you see in the tents

RCMP received more than 60 calls for service between 6 p.m. on July 29 and 6 a.m. on July 30.

“The Battlefords RCMP Detachment is one of the busiest in the province – and [July 29] was one of the busiest nights so far this summer,” says S/Sgt. Bryce Pender from the Battlefords RCMP. “We wanted to share a glimpse of the behind-thescenes on nights like this. From our dispatchers at the Saskatchewan RC-

there,” Hawtin said. “So that means we’re getting a lot of books out to kids in our community. Kids continuing to read through the summer is so important to their education. These programs are great, but it also gives us a great time to connect with like-minded community members.”

The Pages in the Park Pop Up Tents leader Bernadette Bezuidenhout said the Literacy Camps have been held in North Battleford, Unity and Spiritwood.

“We give out books and we promote literacy to kids over the summer,” she said. “It’s just for them to have fun and have something to do, because some kids don’t have anything to do over the summer.”

“It’s very important because they can read and keep themselves busy with things that are good for them and help them grow as well,” Bezuidenhout added. “We want kids to grow, not just in themselves, but

MP’s Operational Communications Centre to our frontline officers to our specialized policing services, we are working together to keep the Battlefords area safe 24/7.”

The calls included the following serious assaults:

- At approximately 11 p.m. on July 29, Battlefords RCMP received a report of a serious assault at a residence on Sweetgrass First Nation. Two men were taken to the hospital with injuries described as serious in nature. Officers have been searching for the suspects, including with a

for our future as well.” She noted the Literacy Camps are also helpful to keep kids on target to prepare them for when school starts again in September.

Remotely Piloted Aircraft System. They ask anyone with information to call Battlefords RCMP at 310RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.

- At about 4 a.m. on July 30, Battlefords RCMP received a report of a serious assault at a park in North Battleford. A woman was taken to the hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening in nature. Officers arrested a suspect at the scene.

“I think the teachers will appreciate it so much because you keep them on track,” Bezuidenhout said. “They just keep on learning because they’re like little sponges.”

Charges have not yet been formally laid so police are unable to identify the individual arrested.

Aside from the serious assaults, officers responded to a range of incidents, including:

• four additional reports of assaults and assault with weapons;

• three reports of vehicle thefts;

• 17 reports of disturbing the peace and mischief; and

• one report of a missing person, who was located safe.

They also arrested two people wanted for warrants.

Mayor Kelli Hawtin, left, with her daughters Hadley, centre, and Huxley, far right. | Photo by Angela Brown

2026 inductees announced for Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame

BATTLEFORD–The 2026 inductees have been announced for the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association Inc.

A total of 15 individuals and groups will be inducted this year. Here is the list of inductees: George Dimas, Coach Stan Montgomery, Trevor Drury, Peter Duncan, David George, Tony Kuffner, Barry Martin, The Late Ralph Archibald “Archie” Sanderson, Dr Craig Weran, Glen Winkler, Troy Winterhalt, 1971 Lumsden Cubs, 1971 North Battleford Junior Beavers, 1960’s Unity Cardinals, and The Flaman Family.

Those honoured will be inducted during a dinner at the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Battleford on Aug. 15.

Anyone wishing to attend the event can order tickets at the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum by calling 306446-1983, or by email at: saskbaseballmuseum@ sasktel.net

“We have a selection

committee that reviews all of the nominations received for the year,” said Bev Labbe, office manager. “Nominations are due by March 15 each year. The selection committee is given copies of the nominations and they choose who will be inducted the morning of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), which is in April.”

“Basically, any individu-

al (can be a player, builder (which includes coaches, umpires etc.)) who has contributed to baseball in Saskatchewan can be nominated,” she added. “Teams, families, and communities can also be nominated in their category.”

Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum president Earl Berard said there’s a certain amount of

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12 9am - 6pm

prestige in being inducted. He said it’s important to recognize people who have made a difference in the sport of baseball.

He said there is expected to be a good attendance for

the induction banquet.

“We are expecting around 300,” Berard said.

He also had a distinguished career in baseball himself.

Berard was team lead -

er for the Canadian youth team, hosting the world in 1984 in Kindersley and the Pacific Cup in 1986. Berard was inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame in 1996.

Summertime Blues

We look forward to the sun to warm us and brighten our days and we can harness it’s power to create some wonderful artwork as well.

Cyanotype printing is a simple photographic process that was developed in the 1800’s and continues to intrigue. The chemical components can be purchased in pre-prepared papers and fabrics or to be mixed and painted on substrates of your choosing. It is a magical and easy process for both children and adults and the perfect summer creative activity. Why not try this simple art form and have your garden beauty last all year!

For more information please contact: battlefordsartclub@gmail.com

Earl Berard is the new president of the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. | Photo submitted by Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association Inc.
Prints

2026 Tony Cote Indigenous Games

U17 Softball
Traditional Archery
U13 Women’s High Jump
U17 Soccer
U15 Women’s 80 metre
U15 Men’s 100 metre
U13 Men’s Javelin
U17 Beach Volleyball
U17 Men’s Long Jump

RADISSON

ANTIQUES & GENERAL STORE

Open 7 Days A Week

321 Main Street, Radisson, SK 306.827.3003

Yesterday’s Memories... Today’s Treasures

Savor the last splash of summer!

Where did the flyers go?

AUGUST AT THE CLUB

The adventure continues!–Summer Adventure Day Camps are in full swing, and there’s still plenty of fun to be had! Running Monday to Friday, 7:30am–5:30pm (excluding statutory holidays), our camps are packed with exciting activities, fun field trips, and more for BGC members ages 5–14. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks are included at no additional cost. Camps are $165/week or $55/day. Be sure to check out our weekly menus, and remember, if your child prefers to bring their own lunch or snacks, we simply ask that all food items are nut-free to help keep everyone safe. Here’s to making the most of every summer adventure! Weekly themes and field trips:

WEEK 6: AUGUST 4-7, Carnival Countdown *CLOSED August 3rd for Saskatchewan Day*

Field Trip: Nutrien Playland at Kinsmen Park (Saskatoon)

WEEK 7: AUGUST 10-14, Amazing Race

Field Trip: Nationswest Field House

WEEK 8: AUGUST 17-21, Agent 99

Field Trip: Western Development Museum

WEEK 9: AUGUST 24-28, Imagination Exploration

Field Trip: Nutrien Wonderhub (Saskatoon)

ALL programming CLOSED August 31 & September 1

Free Summer Parks Drop-in Programs: There’s still time to join us at Centennial Park, Kinsmen Park, and Senator Herb Sparrow Park—right at the splash pads! Our FREE Summer Parks Drop-in Program is running until August 21st, Monday to Friday, 11:00am–4:00pm (weather permitting, including air quality alerts, and closed on stat holidays). All you need is a valid 2026 Membership Form to join the fun!

As a reminder, our summer hours of operation are as follows:

• Office: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:30pm

• Summer Adventure Day Camps: Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 5:30pm (excluding stat holidays)

• Summer Parks Drop-in Programs: Monday to Friday, 11:00am – 4:00pm (weather permitting, including air quality statements & closed stat holidays)

Back to School is Just Around the Corner! While we’re soaking up the last few weeks of summer, we’re also getting ready to welcome everyone back for another exciting school year! Our Before & After School Programs will be returning to our Satellite Sites at Battleford Central School/St. Vital, Bready, EMBM, and Holy Family School and registration is NOW OPEN. Our programs provide a safe and engaging environment where children can enjoy games, crafts, physical activity, nutritious snacks, and more! We can’t wait to see familiar faces and welcome new members for another year of fun, learning, and belonging at The Club! For more information, program details, and registration, visit our website: www.bgcbattlefords.ca

Our school year hours of operation are as follows:

• Office: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:30pm

• Satellite Site Before School Programs: Monday to Friday, 7:30am –8:30am (BCS/St. Vital, Bready, EMBM & Holy Family)

• Satellite Site After School Programs: Monday to Friday, class dismissal

– 5:30pm (BCS/St. Vital, Bready, EMBM & Holy Family)

• Drop-in Program (Main Site): Monday to Friday, 3:30pm – 8:30pm and Saturdays, 1:00pm – 4:00pm Continue to watch our Facebook page (BGCBattlefords), Instagram @ bgcbattlefords and website (www.bgcbattlefords.ca) for more updates. Opportunity Changes Everything

Our readers may have noticed that over the past few months, the number of flyers from major national retailers included in the News-Optimist has dwindled to next to nothing.

We want you to know that those changes aren’t coming from us and to explain how that happened. On July 23 we published an op-ed by Paul Deegan, president of News Media Canada, the national association that represents Canada’s community and daily newspapers, to help shed some light on the situation.

The changes are the result of Raddar, a new flyer and advertising platform launched by Montreal-based TC Transcontinental, one of Canada’s largest printing and packaging companies and the single biggest player in flyer printing and distribution in the country.

With little or no notice, we simply stopped getting shipments of the flyers we used to get paid by TC Transcontinental to distribute. There was no warning, no advisory that our longstanding business stream was about to disappear.

Now, through Raddar, flyers are being distributed through Canada Post as a weekly print package - a bundle of flyers, advertising and some “editorial content” supported by a companion website.

For community papers like the News-Optimist, Raddar’s arrival has real consequences. When national retailers join Raddar, their flyers are printed elsewhere, packaged elsewhere and delivered through Canada Post.

This matters because flyer revenue has long been part of what sustains our operation. It helps fund the newsroom and keeps advertising

adtakers.newsoptimist@sasktel.net

dollars circulating in the community.

Every flyer that moves into Raddar means fewer resources to cover council meetings, community events, local sports, business developments and the everyday stories that make the Battlefords what they are.

What hasn’t changed is our commitment to local service. We continue to print and deliver flyers for local businesses - the ones who choose to keep their advertising dollars here at home. Those partnerships, some reaching back decades, matter more than ever.

If you prefer flyers delivered with your local paper, you can help by telling the retailers you shop at that you value local distribution. A simple conversation with a store manager can be passed up the chain, and customer feedback is one of the few things that can influence na-

tional advertising decisions. If you’d rather not get them in your mailbox, you can opt out through Canada Post’s Consumers’ Choice program. This is separate from the News-Optimist and applies only to material delivered by the postal service.

Simply place a written notice on your mailbox or mail slot stating that you do not wish to receive unaddressed advertising mail. Canada Post is required to honour that request. It’s important to note that this opt-out affects only postal flyers such as Raddar; it does not affect delivery of the News-Optimist or the local flyers we deliver with the paper.

Supporting businesses that continue to advertise locally also makes a difference, because those dollars stay in the community and help sustain the journalism you rely on.

Publisher/Editor: Candace Mack-Horton

Gordon Brewerton: Senior Vice-President, Prairie Newspaper Group

Composition: Ryan Lynds

Advertising Sales - Sales Manager: Candace Mack-Horton

Administration: Kylie Cooke • Elisha Parkinson

Administration: Kylie Cooke • Elisha Parkinson

Reporter: Sherri Solomko • Photographer: Averil Hall

Reporters: Angela Brown - SASKTODAY.ca • Sherri Solomko

Reporter/Photographer: Averil Hall

Contributors:

Contributors: Elaine Woloshyn, Kathy Utri, Trudy Janssens, Lorraine Olinyk

Elaine Woloshyn, Eric Callbeck, Kathy Utri, John Bowyer, R. H. Wood

Mailroom - Manager: Melissa Pitkeathley

Mailroom - Manager: Melissa Pitkeathley

Scott Foster • Donna Smith • Anamarija Barna

Kristen Keller

Individual arrested in North Battleford on outstanding warrants

The Saskatchewan Marshals Service have arrested an individual in North Battleford on outstanding warrants.

and fail to comply with an undertaking.

The apprehension was the result of a targeted investigation and coordinated enforcement efforts to locate the individual in North Battleford and the surrounding area.

The individual was wanted on outstanding warrants, including: sexual interference,

On July 30 at approximately 11:30 a.m., members of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS) arrested a 53-year-old individual at a residence in North Battleford on outstanding warrants.

This apprehension demonstrates the SMS mandate to locate prolific offenders and individuals wanted for serious offences and return them to the court process.

The SMS extends its appreciation to Battlefords RCMP for their assistance in this investigation.

Wanted man arrested on Sweetgrass First Nation

SWEETGRASS FIRST

NATION–A wanted individual was arrested following a coordinated search on Sweetgrass First Nation.

On July 28 at approximately 11:30 a.m., members of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS) attended a residence on Sweetgrass First Nation after receiving information that a wanted individual was present at the location.

Upon arrival, Marshals spoke with an occupant who confirmed the individual was inside the residence. When the suspect became aware of law enforcement’s presence, he exited through a rear window and fled into a nearby wooded area.

Additional resources were deployed to assist in the search, including the Provincial Protective Services (PPS) Canine Unit, Battlefords RCMP, and Sweetgrass First Nation Security Officers (SO). A drone was utilized to support ground teams.

Shortly after, Marshals and the PPS Canine Unit began tracking the suspect through the wooded area. Following an extensive search, the individual was located at approximately 1:14 p.m. and arrested after attempting to evade police by climbing a tree.

attention, and the individual declined treatment.

A 33-year-old man was arrested on an outstanding warrant and taken into custody without incident.

During the arrest, the suspect sustained a minor scratch to his foot from the police service dog. The injury did not require medical

The SMS would like to thank the members of PPS, Battlefords RCMP, and Sweetgrass First Nation SOs for their support throughout this operation

Saskatchewan Marshals Service

New court date set for woman charged in alleged Wilkie care home sexual assaults

— A woman facing several charges including sexual assault following alleged reports at a group home in Wilkie is now scheduled for closing arguments in her case at North Battleford provincial court.

Jaclyn Elias is charged with assault, sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, and uttering threats.

A trial in the case was held in February.

The matter was in court on July 28 and has been adjourned for closing arguments on Oct. 7.

The accused was arrested on the charges on Feb. 29, 2024.

Elias previously pleaded not guilty to the charges.

A publication ban is in effect in identifying the complainants in the case.

Police previously reported that on Feb. 28, 2024, Wilkie

RCMP received a report of multiple physical and sexual assaults that occurred at a care facility.

After investigating, police determined that between January 2023 and February 2024, at least four adult residents of the facility were allegedly assaulted, sexually assaulted

and/or threatened by a female staff member.

The accused has not worked at the facility since February 2024.

Fox sentencing in death of Lee Bearsears set for

man charged in the death of 31-year-old Lee Bearsears, who was found guilty of second-degree murder following a trial that concluded in March, is scheduled for sentencing in August.

Craig Fox of Little Pine First Nation was charged with second-degree murder.

Justice Rochelle Wempe gave her verdict in the case May 25 at the Court of King’s Bench in Battleford.

Cut Knife RCMP found Bearsears’ body in a rural area on Poundmaker Cree Nation on Oct. 16, 2023. Bearsears was from Little

New court date in NB for accused in grandparent scam investigation

— A man facing charges related to a grandparent scam investigation had his case adjourned again in North Battleford provincial court on July 27.

53-year-old Eric Tiegen, from Lashburn, was arrested in late April and is charged with one count of fraud over $5,000; and two counts of identity fraud.

Tiegen’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 10.

The grandparent scam investigation began in January.

You Gotta Sing!

Join our sisterhood in A Cappella four part harmony!

For more info, call:

Gail Rokosh—(306)730-7623

Kendra Glass—(306)317-6604

Val Laing—(306)441-5311

Come for the singing, stay for the fun!!!

You Gotta Sing!

CHUCKLES

CHUCKLES

Where do snowmen & snowwomen dance?

Where do snowmen & snowwomen dance?

At least it’s not snowing. Imagine shoveling in this heat!

The Snow Ball.

The Snow Ball.

Hear about the new restaurant called Karma?

Did you hear about the guy who froze to death at the Drive-In?

Did you hear about the guy who froze to death at the Drive-In?

August

Fox was set for an appearance at the Court of King’s

for

One person dead, another injured after rollover on Highway 16

MAYMONT — A rollover on Highway 16 during the Saskatchewan Day long weekend left one person dead and another injured.

According to a news release from the Saskatchewan RCMP, at approximately 11:40 a.m. on Aug. 2, the Warman RCMP received a report of a rollover approximately three kilometres northwest of Maymont.

Officers responded along with local fire and emergency medical services crews. The RCMP said the passenger was declared dead at the scene by EMS. She has been identified as a 34-year-old woman from Saskatoon. Her family has been notified.

The driver was transported to hospital by EMS with injuries described by the RCMP as non-life threatening in nature.

The Warman RCMP continues to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.

The highway was closed for several hours after the rollover.

There’s no menu, you get what you deserve.

He went to see “Closed For The Winter.”

He went to see “Closed For The Winter.”

Never make Snow Angels in a Dog Park.

I accidentally drank a bottle of disappearing ink. Now I’m in the E.R. waiting to be seen

Never make Snow Angels in a Dog Park.

How does a penguin build his house? Igloos it together.

How does a penguin build his house? Igloos it together.

It’s so hot out. Our garlic took it’s cloves off.

Managing your weight around the holidays just requires a little planning. For example, I took the batteries out of my scale on Wednesday.

Someone stole the “P” from the Pirate. Was he mad? He was irate!

Managing your weight around the holidays just requires a little planning. For example, I took the batteries out of my scale on Wednesday.

Pine First Nation.
Bench in Battleford on July 29. His matter was adjourned
sentencing on Aug. 24.
Lee Bearsears. | Social media
North Battleford provincial court. | File photo / SaskToday. ca
SASKTODAY.ca

When we think of migration, it is often the songbirds that we think about. However, monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) migrate up to 3000 miles (4800 km) every autumn. It is difficult to fathom that our beautiful monarchs can complete this almost unbelievable migration. Monarchs that are born in late summer or early fall enter the “diapause” phase which is a non-reproductive state. They stay in this state for up to eight months and fly thousands of miles south to overwinter in the central Mexico oyamel fir forests or to California.

This is especially unique as most adult butterflies only live two to four weeks. Some smaller butterflies may only live a few days while the monarchs survive for up to nine months. Adult butterflies feed primarily on liquids using a straw-like tongue called a proboscis in order to fuel their flight, mate and lay eggs. Nectar from flowers are their main source of sugar and energy, but butterflies also feed on tree sap, rotting fruit and dung for minerals and amino acids. Males will also gather on mud puddles (called puddling) to absorb

The Monarch Butterfly

essential salts and sodium.

Butterflies undergo complete metamorphosis progressing through four distinct lifecycle stages. Females will lay tiny eggs on specific host plants that will feed the newly hatched young. The larval stage is the primary feeding and growth stage. So yes, before the butterfly comes the worm (technically a caterpillar) which shed their skins multiple times as they go through rapid growth. The pupa or chrysalis is the transformation stage where the caterpillar

reorganizes its tissues into a fully formed butterfly inside a protective casing. The adult or imago stage is focused on reproduction, pollination and migrations before restarting the cycle.

Monarch butterflies hold the record for the longest migration by a single insect and navigate using a combination of a time-compensated solar compass. This type of navigation uses the sun’s position alongside their internal circadian clock and magnetic receptors in their antennae. How amazing it

delivering the news to you.

Today, more than ever, it can be difficult to know what to believe when you read or watch something online.

It’s becoming harder every day to tell the difference between what’s real and what’s fake.

Your community newspaper is different. Every story is fact-checked, verified, and printed with accountability. A printed newspaper can’t be edited after the fact. What you read is the truth as it was reported.

as such:

- Generation 1 (spring) overwintering monarchs leave Mexico in March, move into the southern US and lay eggs on Milkweed before dying. This generation hatches, matures and migrates in the Midwest and Northeast.

- Generation 2 and Generation 3 (summer) These are born in late spring and mid-summer and only live for 2 – 6 weeks with the sole focus of breeding and moving further north – reaching the northern US and southern Canada

the monarch butterflies arrive from late May through mid-June to breed, relying on native milkweed before heading south by late summer.

is to see both sides of this lengthy migration!

This migration is not a simple one, but actually takes multiple generations to complete both directions of the migration. In the spring, these overwintered monarchs head north to mate, lay eggs on milkweed and die. It takes 3 to four successive generations to repopulate North America each summer. This multigenerational relay goes

- Generation 4 (fall) born in late summer/fall these do not reproduce immediately, but instead live 6 to 9 months and migrate up to 3000 miles south to Mexico for the winter and heat north again in spring to start the cycle again.

To attract monarchs, plant native milkweed species such as common, showy and dwarf along with native flowering plants that provide nectar for adult butterflies.

Planting tropical milkweed and other non-native varieties can disrupt the migration patterns and spread harmful parasites. In Saskatchewan,

In order to aid our monarch butterflies, we need to take action! Please avoid mowing natural ditches and prairie patches where milkweed grows between June 1 and September 15. There is heavy habitat loss of the native milkweed in Canada and this coupled with the winter forest degradation in the south has helped to decrease the population of the monarchs. As always, skip the pesticides and add native asters and goldenrods to help feed the adult monarch butterflies for their long journey south.

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail. com on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort.

Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW…

Owl fledglings take flight

Nature Saskatchewan

REGINA — Following a spring of finding a mate and tending to eggs, the prairies have come alive with a new crop of young birds. Among these are the endangered burrowing owl. From mid-July to the end of August, burrowing owl young are learning to hunt and fly. They are often drawn to roadways because the road surface tends to be warmer than surrounding grasslands, attracting many small insects and rodents.

“Motorists can help reduce the risk of owl-vehicle collisions by slowing down near known or potential nest sites and being on the lookout for low flying owls,” says Grace Pidborchynski, coordinator for Operation Burrowing Owl at Nature Saskatchewan.

Burrowing owls are about nine inches tall, with mottled

brown and white feathers, bushy white ‘eyebrows’, and long featherless legs. They are often found nesting in pastures that have been well grazed, as the short grass allows them to easily spot predators. Burrowing owls nest in abandoned burrows excavated by badgers, ground squirrels, or other burrowing mammals, and may be seen standing on their burrow, sitting on nearby fence posts, or foraging in the ditches.

Many young burrowing owls are killed by motorists each year while foraging along the road. There is an estimated population of 270 breeding owls in Canada, making the survival of each juvenile critical for the survival and growth of the population.

Nature Saskatchewan has been involved with the protection and conservation of

the burrowing owl for close to 40 years, but its success would not be possible without the help of landowners, land managers, and the public. Operation Burrowing Owl works with landowners across southern and central Saskatchewan and uses voluntary agreements to preserve the rapidly disappearing habitat that the species needs. The program works alongside landowner practices, and the land continues to be used in a way that benefits the landowner.

“If you see a burrowing owl, please give us a call at 306-780-9833, or email obo@naturesask.ca,” Pidborchynski says. “You will be helping to monitor the population and aid with conservation efforts.” Personal information is never shared without permission.

Boyd Coburn
A monarch butterfly gathers nectar to fuel its long flight. Adult monarchs rely on native flowering plants and milkweed to survive their multi-generational migration. | Photo courtesy of Patricia Hanbidge

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Eternal Memories Funeral Service Announces the Acquisition of Sallows & McDonald – Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home

North Battleford, Saskatchewan – Eternal Memories Funeral Service is pleased to announce the acquisition of Sallows & McDonald –Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home. This transition brings together two organizations with a long history of serving families in the Battlefords and surrounding communities with compassion, dignity, and respect. Our commitment is to ensure a seamless transition for the families we serve. Existing pre-arranged funeral plans, memorial services, and commitments will continue to be honored, and families can expect the same professional and caring service throughout this process.

At this time, all Eternal Memories locations will continue to operate. We remain committed to providing accessible, personalized funeral and memorial services while evaluating opportunities to strengthen and expand our services for the community.

“This acquisition is about preserving a legacy of care while building for the future,” said Trevor & Adria Watts, Owners “We are honored to continue serving the families who have trusted Sallows & McDonald –

Wilson & Zehner for generations, while maintaining the high standard of service our community expects and deserves.”

For the community, this transition means continued access to experienced funeral professionals, expanded resources, and a commitment to preserving the traditions and personalized care that families value during life’s most difficult moments.

Additional information regarding the transition will be shared as plans are finalized. We appreciate the trust and support of our community and look forward to continuing to serve families with compassion, respect, and excellence.

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium

Trevor or Adria Watts

Phone: 306-445-7570

Email: emnorth@eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Web Site: www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Richardson Pioneer gets behind ice plant upgrades

Maidstone Arena received an incredible donation of $18,775 toward the ice plant upgrade project from Richardson Pioneer. This generous contribution officially pushed the fundraising goal of $250,000 across the finish line. Maidstone Arena Board is grateful to Richardson Pioneer for investing in our community and helping make this project a reality. Thank you to all the businesses and community members for your generosity in keeping our facility strong for years to come. Your support will have a lasting impact on everyone who uses our arena.

AWB Plumbing and Heating has closed its doors. Their business over the past 10 years has been much appreciated by our community. Aaron and Vickie Bailey always gave us excellent service and went out of their way to get any plumbing and heating problems fixed. Aaron says it was a hard decision, but

he has decided to move on to another phase of his career. Thank you, AWB; we will miss you.

On Tuesday, July 28, Week 13 of Maidstone Disc Golf, there were 24 players out. Draw winners were Jacquie Ross and Alex Lorence. Congratulations to Cody Garnham on scoring an Ace on Hole 16. Unfortunately, Cody hadn’t entered the Ace Pot which is now at $90.00. Best singles score was Ryan Donovan with 3 under par and best team score was 8 under par for Fairway to Heaven. Their average is now -5.69 with all 13 weeks played. Tier 1 high average still belongs to Matt Sayers at -9.5 (8 cards), Noah Schempp is at +1 (9 cards) in Tier 2, and in Tier 3 Tiffany Smith has a high average of +10.38 (8 cards). Join them at the Delfrari Park course on Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

The third annual Student Fresh Start is on now until Aug. 29. Linda, owner of Making Waves Salon, invites Maidstone and area to donate school supplies of any

With this donation, the arena’s ice plant upgrade project goal of $250,000.00 was realized. Our community is extremely grateful to all the donors who helped with this fundraiser. |

kind. Drop off at the salon at 204-Main St. in Maidstone.

On Saturday, Aug. 29, on a first-come, first-served basis, Linda will give students free haircuts. They can then choose school supplies from

the donated items to help give them a fresh start to the school year. As Linda says, “Together we can help our students make waves this school year.”

The Midwest Family Con-

nections Mobile Early Learning will be in Maidstone on Thursday, Aug. 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Come down to the splash park and check out this free opportunity to play, connect, learn and explore as

Mayfair & Area News

a family. Recommended age up to six years. (Program will be cancelled if it’s raining.)

Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary is again holding an online edible auction from Aug. 25 to Sept. 3. Anyone wishing to donate baking, garden produce and other edibles, please contact Gill by Aug. 10 by phone or text 306-893-7189; phone or leave a message 306-8932368. More information will be forthcoming. All proceeds will go towards the purchase of a Life Pak 15 Cardiac Monitoring System.

Maidstone Museum is looking for vendors for our fall market on corn roast day, Wednesday, Sept. 9. Contact Desirae at 306-893-7177. Cost is $20 per table. The market will be open from 4 to 8 p.m. The corn roast meal will be available from 5 to 7 p.m.

Reminder: Last day of Summer Reading Club at Maidstone Library is Wednesday, Aug. 12 (from 2 to 4 p.m.)

Rescheduled fireworks put on an entertaining show

In July, Faye and Keith Liebaert of Mayfair were guests at a relative’s wedding in Edmonton. They then took the time to see Keith’s sister, Valerie (Rick), a former Mullingar farmer who now resides with their son, Brett (Priscilla), on an acreage near Hinton, Alta. Brett and Priscilla farmed in the Leask area as their five children were growing up, then decided Alberta was the place to retire.

The fireworks that were rescheduled for this past Saturday night after 10 p.m. were spectacular thanks to co-ordinator Kim. A large crowd of campers and locals driving to

watch certainly were not disappointed. The original date, July 4, wasn’t possible due to unfriendly weather conditions. Meeting Lake has been struck hard two times, with much devastation to cabins, vehicles and boats, and making a few roads impassible. Many men have chainsaws, so they were voluntarily removing the unwanted tree debris. Many cabin owners who were not at their cabins frantically contacted others to see if damage was done to anything on their property. Oh, the joys of thunderstorms, but the lightning display is worth a few pictures. Pretty scary moments for many having to hurry to seek appropriate shelter.

Dave and Nancy Penley,

well-known Rabbit Lake farmers, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 1 in Rabbit Lake Hall. A good-sized crowd of relatives from her (McLeod) and his side of the family were in attendance, with many from Alberta. Penley’s two adult kids, Adele (Mike) MacKenzie and Vaughan (Chelsea ) Penley organized this wonderful fun event. Happy 50th, Dave and Nancy, and celebrate many more years together. They are snowbirds in Yuma, Ariz., and just like many of us prairie folks, love the warm sunshine.

While at Penley’s anniversary, many Rabbit Lake, Whitkow and Mayfair broomball players from about

Merle Rempel and Stacey Morrison from Richardson Pioneer presented a cheque in the amount of $18,775 to Maidstone Arena board members, Dawn Kinchen, Miranda Zerr and Haley Bixby.
Photo courtesy Kathy Utri
In their “senior years,” eight of the Whitkow Aces Broomball team were at the Penley’s 50th wedding anniversary this past Saturday.They are David Mischuk, Brad Moore, Orest Ewanchuk, Stephen Cherwinski, Dave Woloshyn, Gerald Ewanchuk, Paul Cherwinski and Roman Ewanchuk. | Photo courtesy Elaine Woloshyn

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

2691-98thSt., NorthBattleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours

1332-100th St., NorthBattleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours

Stewart Nelson Berry Born Jan 28, 1972. Passed in the early morning hours of Friday July 24, 2026. Thank you to the BUH staff, WPD Ambulance staff, Saskatchewan Air Ambulance, the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at the Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon.

Stewart’s golden heart has found its gentle rest. At fifty-four, a beautiful soul takes flight. Though heavy burdens weighed upon his chest, Dear Stewart’s smile still fills the room with light. With love, from “your favorite brother-in-law”

Trevor and Adria Watts -Owners Funeral Directors -Vanessa Macnab TimScaife

Owners: Trevor and Adria Watts Funeral Directors: Tim Scaife • Tessa Bell • Larissa Wack

Owners: Trevorand AdriaWatts FuneralDirectors: TimScaife •Tessa Bell

Apprentice FuneralDirectors: Larissa Wack

Student Funeral Directors:

Alyssa Kozinski •CristiTilbert

Apprentice Funeral Directors LarissaWack •TessaBell

Alyssa Kozinski • Cristi Tilbert

ELIAS: It is with great sadness that the family of Gordon Conrad Elias of North Battleford, Sk, announce his passing on July 20, 2026. Gordon was born June 30, 1951 to John and Helena Elias of Robinhood, Sk. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 56 years Laverne; son, Chad Elias (Kristina) children: Jordan (Michaela), James, Callista (Mark); son, Todd Elias (Michelle), children: Dallas, Karsten (Destinie), Avery; brother, Randy Elias (Charlotte); brothers in law: Lyle Ray and Lynn Delong; sisters in law: Dianne Delong, Charlotte Elias and Alma Franzen, as well as numerous Nieces, Nephews and Friends. Gordon was predeceased by his parents John and Helena Elias; sister, Helen; brothers, Jack, Rudy; grandson, Rylan Elias; nephews, Kelly and Steven Elias; in laws, Cornie and Eunice Warkentin; sister in laws, Isabel Elias and Sandra Ray. Gordon will be remembered by all who met him. He was friendly and stopped to talk with everyone and considered everyone his friend or neighbour. He will be missed. We would like to thank Dr. Xavier, Dr. Campbell and all doctors and staff involved with Gordon’s hospitalization’s, for their care and kindness. Also to the staff at River Heights Lodge. Celebration of Life for Gordon will be held Saturday, August 15, 2026 at the Garden Chapel located at 1332 100st, North Battleford, Sk at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium – Larissa Wack Funeral Director.

SULYMKA: Jamie was born April 22, 1985 in North Battleford, where he went to school and was employed. He started at McDonald’s and then he moved onto the Co-op grocery and onto the bakery department. He loved the bakery and could be seen on his bike in the wee hours of the morning on his way to work. Jamie was the only loving child of Alan and Joanne Sulymka. Sadly, his mom passed in 2018 and left a big void in his life. Jamie was proud when he bought his first home and shared it with his beloved cat, Gracie. Surviving is his ever-caring dad and step-mom, Marion; step brother, Jared (Angela); nephew, Ty; nieces: Aria and Addison; his grandmother, Marge of Winnipeg; his uncles: Eric of Flin Flon and Dave of Williams Lake. Grateful thanks to his faithful friends for support and companionship. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium–Tessa Bell Funeral Director

MILLAR: With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Earl Joseph Millar, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose life was defined by his faith. Earl was born on August 27, 1949, and passed away on July 29, 2026, at the age of 76. Born in Burns Lake, B.C., Earl’s family returned to North Battleford when he was five years old, where he attended Nolan School, a one-room schoolhouse near Hamlin, before completing high school in Turtleford and North Battleford. He worked in Banff the summer after graduation before heading to the Northwest Territories to work in geology and mineral exploration. He quickly fell in love with the north and the sense of adventure it offered, even if it meant hiking 20 miles each day on snowshoes in temperatures reaching 50 below. While spending time in Hay River and walking the shores of Great Slave Lake, Earl surrendered his life to God, a pivotal moment that forever changed the course of his life. He went on to attend Central Pentecostal College (now Horizon College & Seminary) in Saskatoon, graduating in 1972, before serving as a youth pastor in North Battleford. It was during this season that Earl met the love of his life, Karen. They were married in 1978 and went on to build a beautiful life together, raising five children and faithfully serving side by side in ministry. Family was Earl’s greatest joys. He loved Karen with unwavering devotion, and together they created a home marked by faith and love. Their ministry took them to Wilkie, Regina, Sarnia, Ontario and Iowa, before returning home to North Battleford in 2011. For 55 years, Earl devoted his life to serving God. Sharing the hope he found in Jesus was not simply what he did, it was who he was. Outside of ministry, Earl found true joy in God’s creation. He loved spending time outdoors including hunting, fishing, camping and gardening (particularly pumpkins). He always appreciated the beauty around him through photography. Earl loved deep conversations that went beyond the surface and he believed every person mattered, took time to listen, and formed deep, meaningful relationships. Throughout nearly the last decade, Earl faced health challenges with the same quiet strength, determination, and unwavering faith that shaped his life. Earl was known for his gentle spirit, kindness, compassion, and genuine love for people. His legacy lives on not only through his family, but through the countless lives he impacted over more than five decades of ministry. He received a fifty year service award from the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel. He also furthered his education at the University of Regina, completing his associate degree in business administration. Earl will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Karen; his children, Rachele (Noah) Coombs and their children Hudson, Harlan and Hazel, Kara (Sam Chandra) Millar and their son Jack, Cheilon (Andrew) Hemmerling and their sons Boon and Tucker, David (Rebekah) Millar and their daughter Taya, and Caelan (Kassandra Patry) Millar. Please join us for a Memorial Service on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at North Battleford Foursquare Mission, 691 103 Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 1J8. Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium–Alyssa Kozinski Student Funeral Director.

GRAY: It is with deep sadness that the family of Gordon Gray announce his passing on July 13, 2026 at the age of 86, in BUH. Left to cherish his memory: his loving wife Sharon of 30 years, his Daughter Karen (David), Carley (Dave); Stacey (Keith), Lexie (Kaden) Beckett; sons: Ian (Michele), Courtney (Justin), Autumn, Harley; Caitlyn (Ryan); Jason (Krista), Taylor and Brodie. Siblings, Norman (Kathy), Kathleen (Gordon), Maxine (Al), Tom, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Gordon was predeceased by his first wife, Donna, parents George and Freida Gray, brother Keith Gray. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Palliative Care Unit, Battlefords Union Hospital, or the Home Care Adult Day Program. A Special Thank You to the BUH Palliative Care staff for the love and care Gordon received in your care, and to the staff at the adult day program. Funeral service will be on August 8 at 2pm in the Maymont School Gym. Internment at a later date.

Career Opportunities

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Diamond Standard Properties is looking for a property maintenance person. This work primarily entails maintaining exteriors and some mechanical.

This is a full-time position with a vehicle allowance and full medical. Salary is negotiable. Please submit your resume by August 15, 2026 to:

hzam@sasktel.net or Diamond Standard Properties Inc Box 40, North Battleford S9A 2X6

Class 1 Driver required

Jaeger Transport is looking for a Class 1 Driver with experience to drive between Regina and North Battleford and surroundings areas.

Please forward your resume to jaegerhrdept@gmail.com

Card of Thanks

THANK YOU For your Support!

The Town of Battleford would like to recognize

The Historic Battleford Lions Club

The Royal Canadian Legion No 9 The Battleford Quilters and the Sask Lotteries Grant Program for their generous donation to the Battleford Tot Lot

Obituaries
Obituaries
Garage Sale

Rescheduled fireworks put on an entertaining show

Continued from page 10 40 years ago were in attendance, so they got together for a group picture. Many reminisced about the good times of their games and hard-fought tournaments. They were in the Northern Lakes Broomball League with teams from Marcelin, Glaslyn Leoville and a few other towns. The team started out being called Rabbit Lake, then changed to the Whitkow Aces and were the first in the league for many years. The farthest away tournament they played in was in Calgary. I’m sure that was more than years ago. Home games were played in Mayfair Arena, bringing in much entertainment for the young and old locals on a cold winter’s night. Mark your calendars for Sunday, Aug. 23 at Mayfair Hall. Creative Corner group is hosting a fundraising barbecue at our hall from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Very reasonable prices for hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks and ice cream treats. Everyone is welcome, as they had a successful one last month, and with the weather co-operating, picnic tables outside felt as if a person was camping. Eating outdoors is the best in warm weather. Also, from 2 to 8 p.m. is a “tentative” music jam after the barbecue on Aug. 23 inside the hall until 8 p.m. A potluck is scheduled between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Elaine is still looking for more jammers, so if you are a musician, that would be perfect. Our new sound system works well. A year and a half ago, the jam was very good, with the musicians asking when we would be having another one. The day that it was tentatively planned turned miserably cold in January, so it was cancelled. Call me (Elaine) at 306-481-4570 for more information. This is also to be a fundraiser for the Mayfair 100th anniversary in July 2028.

Don’t forget to call Joan at Rabbit Lake bar at 306-

Dave and Nancy Penley sharing their 50th wedding anniversary with guests at Rabbit Lake Hall. | Photos courtesy Elaine Woloshyn

230-8296 to register for the Rabbit Lake 100th birthday bunnock tournament on Saturday, Aug. 15. Deadline for registration is 8 p.m. Aug. 10. She will give you all of the necessary information, or one can check on Facebook under Rabbit Lake Hotel & Bar. The day is planned with other events: vendors, barbeque supper, silent auction, kids’ activities and more.

In the Estate of Jennette Alzie Beckman, late of North Battleford, Saskatchewan, deceased. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any must be sent to the undersigned before the 21st day of August, 2026. Lisa Etcheverry Executor of the Estate Box 2276 Battleford, SK S0M 0E0

cabin on South Shore beach

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

VILLAGE OF MERVIN PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before October 5, 2026, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.

Description of Property Title No.

Arrears* Costs

Arrears and Costs LOT 12-BLK/PAR 13PLAN 83B15813 EXT 0 158533342 $1,100.35

* Penalty is calculated to the date of the Notice and will continue to accrue as applicable.

Dated this 30th day of July, 2026

Tannys Thom, Administrator

PUBLIC NOTICE

RM OF WILTON PUBLIC NOTICE

Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to Section 13 of The Municipalities Act, the R.M. of Wilton No. 472, subject to the consent of the Minister of Highways, intends to close and transfer the road allowance described as the following:

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Wilton intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 16-2014, known as the Lloydminster Planning District Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT

INTENT

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. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 44 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details. Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-649-1405 to find out

resort units in Phoenix, Arizona. Doug 306-716-2671 osoyooslakevilla.com

&

The proposed amendment will rezone the SW-24-49-28-W3, as shown on the Map attached hereto, from A – Agricultural District to C1 – Rural Commercial District and M1 – Industrial District.

Proposed Bylaw No. 16-2025 will provide a notice of intent to permanently close and transfer all that portion of the original road allowance shown as “Portion of Road to be Closed” on Plan ID 34111498300-V-SKCH-001 (McElhanney Ltd., dated September 5, 2025), located within SE ¼ Section 07-48-27-W3M, containing approximately 0.21 hectares (0.52 acres). This land will be consolidated with adjacent Surface Parcels 130529763 (Ext. 1) and 130710473 (Ext. 2).

REASON

This road allowance remains undeveloped and will not be developed in the future. A subdivision application has been applied for to provide for the parcel ties of the road allowance lands with adjacent parcels. The road allowance to be closed and transferred as shown on Map 1.

PUBLIC INSPECTION

Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Municipal Office, 26646 Grid Road 688, (located in the NE-6-48-26-W3M, 9 km south of Highway 16 on Range Road 3265) between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM on Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Copies of the proposed bylaws are available on the RM website www.rmwilton.ca and at the RM Office at a cost of $5.00.

PUBLIC HEARING Council will hold a public hearing on December 16th at 10:30 AM at the Municipal Office. Written submissions must be received two days prior to scheduled hearing by 4:00 PM. Via email, received at the office or via mail.

Issued at the RM of Wilton 1st day of December, 2025.

Jill Parton, Chief Administrative Officer

REASON

The reason for the proposed rezoning is to provide commercial and industrial zoning consistent with the development on the adjacent NW quarter.

PUBLIC INSPECTION

Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Municipal Office, 26646 Grid Road 688, (located in the NE-6-48-26-W3M, 9 km south of Highway 16 on Range Road 3265) between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM on Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Copies of the proposed bylaws are available at the RM Office at a cost of $5.00.

PUBLIC HEARING

Council will hold a public hearing on August 20th, 2026 at 10:30 AM at the RM Office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the RM Office before the hearing. Issued at the RM of Wilton this 30th day of July, 2026. Jill Parton, Administrator

agproseeds.com

Nikki Johnson (nee Olyinyk, formerly from North Battleford) with husband Andy and five-year old-daughter from Scottsdale, Ariz. took a five-day vacation to Meeting Lake at her sister’s
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF WILTON NO. 472

tot you will thereafter be forever and settingupany claim to, or of,

144185104

The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained onapplication to the Clerk, TreasurerorAdministrator of themunicipality.

Dated

1st day of August, 2025.

NOTICE

(The Tax Enforcement Act)

TAKE NOTICE THAT the City of North Ba ttleford intends to be registered as owner under the above Act of the land described at the foot of this document.

The municipality the land by virtue of an nterest based registered against the existing title to the land tles Registry as Interest Number 199 31 required to TAKE NOTICE tha t unless contest aim of the municipality or redeem the pursuant to the provisions of the above Act WITHIN MONTHS FROM THE SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE ON and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a certifica te of title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up an y claim to, or in respect of, the land.

WaterMinistry

(The Tax Enforcement Act) TAKE THAT the City of North Battleford intends to be registered owner under the above Act of the land described at the foot of this document.

ContacttheNews-Optimistto haveyourchurchincluded. 306-445-7261 adtakers@png.glaciermedia.ca

PER: Margarita Pena, Administrator

Andria Maria Harron (Name of Assessed Owner(s))

Da ted this 1st day of August, 2025.

The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on applica tion to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the municipality.

The municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the tax lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 199643103, and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act WITHIN SIX MONTHS FROM THE SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE ON YOU and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a certificate of title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land

The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the municipality.

Dated this 1st day of August, 2025.

Andria Maria Harron (Name of Assessed Owner(s))

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 10, Block 94, Plan C4240, Extension 0 Title Number: 146617689

UkrainianCatholic Parish of AllSaints 902 -108thStreet, NorthBattleford Divine Liturgy: Sundaysata.m. Pastor:Rev.LeonidMalkov Office: 1-306-343-6516

12thAve. &104thStreet,North Battleford, SKS9A1S8 PASTOR:Rev.FatherMillanSajonasOffice: 306-445-3836 Mass Times: Saturdays:7:00 pm Sundays: 11:00am& 5:00 pm (exceptJuly& August) Sundays:9:30am St.André’sChurch E: nddelourdes_nb@padiocese.ca •www.notredameparish.ca

Margarita Pena, Administrator

Connecting Voices. Building Business

Chambers

of the Federation

– An Agenda for a More Competitive Canada

-Provincial, Territorial and the Atlantic Chambers of Commerce

Introduction: The Chambers of the Federation Policy Framework reflects a collaborative effort among provincial and territorial chambers of commerce to address shared challenges and unlock opportunities that benefit all Canadians.

With geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and global economic shifts intensifying, Canada must act decisively to strengthen national sovereignty, secure supply chains, and enhance competitiveness. Building on recent progress under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, expanded interprovincial labour mobility measures, the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on the Sale of Goods and the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, provinces and territories now have a critical opportunity to move from commitment to full implementation, including through alignment with federal initiatives like Powering Canada Strong.

This joint submission offers a proactive, business-informed agenda for the Council of the Federation. It presents a united vision and practical recommendations to drive economic growth, trade competitiveness, and long-term prosperity across all regions.

Launch time-bound regulatory reviews to remove internal trade

Expand mutual recognition across all jurisdictions, moving fast on beverage alcohol, food and other priorities.

Implement faster credential recognition and labour mobility, including internationally trained professionals.

Coordinate provincial-territorial positions in support of federal leadership on the ongoing CUSMA review and broader international trade priorities.

Identify and advance 2–3 nationally significant trade and energy corridors.

Align provincial infrastructure investments with shared priorities. Accelerate approvals for major nation-building projects.

Conduct risk assessments and strengthen supply chain resilience.

Align and modernize public procurement systems.

Establish coordinated governance, accountability and public reporting mechanisms.

1. BUILD ONE CANADIAN ECONOMY: INTERNAL TRADE, LABOUR MOBILITY & REGULATORY

ALIGNMENT Premiers must ensure Canada operates as a single domestic market for goods, services, and labour by moving from commitments to implementation on internal trade, labour mobility, and regulatory alignment.

2. COMPETE GLOBALLY THROUGH A “TEAM CANADA” APPROACH

Premiers should work collaboratively with the federal government and business leaders to strengthen Canada’s position in an uncertain global environment.

3. BUILD AND CONNECT CANADA’S ENERGY AND TRADE INFRASTRUCTURE

Premiers should strengthen energy security by improving reliability, affordability, and interprovincial connectivity while supporting the national objective of doubling electricity generation by 2050.

4. ACCELERATE APPROVALS FOR NATION-BUILDING PROJECTS

Premiers are encouraged to adopt a “pathways to yes” approach for projects of national and interprovincial importance, aligning with federal efforts to streamline approvals and improve regulatory certainty, working in partnership with Indigenous nations and communities.

5. STRENGTHEN DOMESTIC PROCUREMENT AND INDUSTRIAL CAPACITY

Premiers should use public procurement strategically to strengthen domestic industrial capacity, improve supply chain resilience, and support Canadian businesses.

NEXT STEPS: The Chambers of the Federation urge premiers to:

1. Commit to immediate discussions on implementing these recommendations, including the formation of intergovernmental working groups and formal avenues for Indigenous participation.

2. Leverage existing best practices and agreements to pilot scalable solutions in labour mobility, trade harmonization, and energy corridors.

3. Establish clear timelines, accountability measures, and annual public reporting through the Council of the Federation and Committee on Internal Trade to track outcomes and maintain momentum.

Still Drivin’ Mechanic Shop Ltd. 2521 Commerce Drive, N. B’ford Phone 639-895-0087

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MEDIA SPONSORS news-optimist Regional

BRONZE SPONSOR

FRIENDS OF 120 TH Discovery

Hello everyone! My name is John Topacio, and I am the new summer student with The Battlefords & District Chamber of Commerce.

You have probably seen me around over the past few months. I’ve had the privilege of meeting many incredible people at events, though you might also recognize me from videos on social media or my non-stop emails.

I am a third-year Management student at the Edwards School of Business.

Outside work, I love going for a run. If you see me out on the trails or streets, please don’t hesitate to say hello. I look forward to continuing to connect with everyone and work at the Chamber for the rest of the summer term.

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August 6 2026 by Battlefords News Optimist - Issuu