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Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Battlefords with fireworks, parties By SaskToday staff

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BATTLEFORDS–There will be lots for families to do in the Battlefords to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year. The City of North Battleford plans to have a spectacular fireworks display from King Hill starting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 31. There will also be a number of fun parties people can take part in. The Armoury Brewing Company is planning a special New Year’s Eve party, with entertainment, door prizes, and late night snacks. Doors open at 7 p.m. People can also ring in the New Year with the North Stars New Year’s Eve bash. According to their Facebook Page, the event starts with a home game at the Access Communications Centre arena in North Battleford. When the final buzzer sounds, the party will start. There will be music, entertainment, and $3 per slice pizza as everyone counts down to midnight. People can also attend the New Year’s Eve Kids’ Party. All the fun takes place at the Agrivilla in North Battleford on Dec. 31. The event includes bouncy castles, music and lights, games and the Balloon Man. There will also be a cash-only concession booth on site. Doors open at 5 p.m., with an early countdown at 10 p.m. The party wraps up at 11 p.m. All children attending the Kids’ Party must be accompanied by an adult.

Photo by Diego Roa

Battlefords reflect on 2025 – a year of growth, culture and new initiatives By SaskToday staff BATTLEFORDS - From new buildings to new safety initiatives, it’s been a busy year in the Battlefords in 2025. Some of the highlights of the year include the opening of the Battlefords Humane Society’s new animal shelter. It was a long time coming, but

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North Battleford shared their emotional stories of escaping the La Ronge wildfires, thankful for the safety and support they received after arriving here. Evacuee Carmen Charles recalled the devastating experience fleeing from her home when the raging wildfires threatened the community. Continued on page 2

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 2

Battlefords reflect on 2025 – a year of growth, culture and new initiatives Continued from page 1 It was an exciting time for Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man (MGBHLM) in August as the First Nation came closer to the opening of its brand new Interpretive Centre on its land at The Ridge, located south of Battleford. Chief Tanya Aguilar-Antiman received the keys to the new building. The $6-million Interpretive Centre aims to promote the Nakoda history of the Battlefords area. In August, the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame celebrated its 40th anniversary with a special induction ceremony at the Alex Dillabough Centre in Battleford. Eleven individuals and three teams were inducted during the annual event. A special presentation was made to the CEO of the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Jane Shury, acknowledging her husband, Dave, and herself for starting the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 40 years ago.

Man accused of having loaded prohibited guns, drugs, gets bail

Robert Norgaard is expected to be back in court on Jan. 13, 2026, to enter an election. | Lisa Joy photo

By Lisa Joy SaskToday.ca

Beth Mitchell and her family look on as some kittens await adoption at the Battlefords Humane Society’s new shelter. | Photo by Angela Brown In October, a new mural 2020 after suffering a brain tlefords during the latest was taking shape on 12th bleed. The mural project Battlefords and District Avenue at the corner of was started by the North Chamber of Commerce’s 101st Street in North Bat- Battleford Downtown Busi- Chamber on Tap session. tleford to celebrate the life ness Improvement District How said dealing with proof local hockey hero Colby (BID). It was officially un- lific offenders is a current Cave. veiled in November. priority for police as far as Originally from the BatAlso in November, Bat- crime prevention goes. tlefords, Cave, who played tlefords RCMP Insp. Ryan He also talked about how with the Edmonton Oilers, How shared his thoughts downtown foot patrols are passed away tragically in about policing in the Bat- helping improve safety.

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NORTH BATTLEFORD - Robert Norgaard, 40, of Cut Knife, was granted bail and released from custody on Dec. 23 after appearing in North Battleford Provincial Court. Norgaard’s bail hearing began earlier this month and was adjourned several times, continuing on Dec. 12, Dec. 17, and finally Dec. 23. The bail hearing proceeded under a reverse onus, meaning Norgaard was required to demonstrate why he should be released, rather than the Crown having to justify his detention. He faces 32 criminal charges following an investigation by the North Battleford RCMP. The charges stem from a Nov. 8 incident in which police stopped him while he was in a Cadillac Escalade

on Poundmaker First Nation. According to court documents, Norgaard is accused of multiple firearm offences, including possession of several loaded weapons without a license (a shotgun, a .22 rifle, and a prohibited double-barrel shotgun). He is also charged with possession of weapons for a dangerous purpose and with having two firearms that had their serial numbers removed. Additional charges include having prohibited weapons (knuckle dusters, a collapsible baton, and a knife) for a dangerous purpose. He is also charged with possession of cocaine and methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of unstamped tobacco. The Crown is proceeding by indictment, the more serious form of the charges. Norgaard is expected to be back in court on Jan. 13, 2026, to enter an election.

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Page 3–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Free community Christmas meals part of the season in the Battlefords By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD– Residents in the Battlefords area in need of a hot meal have some options for the Christmas season. At Miwasin Kikinaw, the homeless shelter in North Battleford, a hot Christmas lunch was planned for Dec. 25, Christmas Day. The offering included a turkey dinner with all the fixings. “[It’s] for the homeless people and anyone who comes to the door,” said the facility’s support worker Greta Fineday. She expected to see about 60 people join in the meal. Lunch was served from 12 p.m. to about 2 p.m. Fineday said a local church

group volunteered to come in and make the meal. She is thrilled to be able to provide a hot lunch to the clients and the community. “We’re very excited and very happy,” Fineday said. “Very grateful.” She said some people are struggling in the community so she knows there is a need for support through the shelter facility. “We’ve got a lot of families that have homes, and they still come here and eat at lunchtime and suppertime,” Fineday said. “So, we always make sure there is enough for everybody.” Lunch at the Friendship Centre The Battlefords Indian and Métis Friendship Centre held a free Christmas lunch

on Dec. 22. People gathered at the centre from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy a hot turkey meal. Executive director Jackie Kennedy said the community meal included stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, vegetables, salad, and cupcakes for dessert. “Last year we had it in the evening,” she said. “We just decided to do a lunch [this year]. We want to wish everybody in the community Merry Christmas.” “I’m hoping [they all have a hot meal at home,] but I know some of them don’t,” Kennedy added. “We have a lunch [on Dec. 22]; that’s all that’s important.” She said it’s important to have a hot Christmas meal every year for the community.

“Miwasin Kikinaw,” the emergency shelter, is located at 962-102nd St. in North Battleford. | Photo by Angela Brown “It’s so we can have community spirit,” Kennedy said. “You gather, you talk,

you meet new people. It’s hard around the holidays for people. So, we’re hoping that

people can come and meet new friends, and enjoy themselves.”

January skies bring lunar encounters and planetary highlights By James Edgar Columnist

The Moon during 2026 occults planets, significant asteroids, and 1st-magnitude stars within 5° of the ecliptic. With 38 such events visible around the globe, including monthly occultations of Antares and Regulus all year, a 4-month series for Jupiter, and several more for Venus, there will be many showing up on these pages. January starts off with the Moon at perigee (closest to Earth) at 306,348 km distance. Full phase occurs two days later, on the 3rd, with Jupiter 4 degrees south. The Beehive Cluster (M44) is 1.3 degrees south of the Moon on the 4th, and Regulus is 0.5 degrees south on the 6th–an occultation in the Eastern Hemisphere. On the 11th, Spica is 1.7 degrees north of the last-quarter Moon. Apogee occurs on the 13th at 405,438 km. Antares, the bright red star in Scorpius, is 0.6 degrees north of the Moon–another occultation,

Photo by David Dibert on Unsplash this time in the Southern Perigee occurs on the 29th at Hemisphere. The Moon is 365,871 km. The 30th finds new on the 18th. January the nearly full Moon 4 de23 sees the crescent Moon grees north of Jupiter. 4 degrees north of Saturn. Mercury is too close to the The Moon is among the stars Sun to be visible. of the Pleiades on the 27th. Venus is too close to the

Sun to be visible. Mars is too close to the Sun to be visible. Jupiter reaches opposition on the 10th. This is a good time to view the Galilean moons, discovered by

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Galileo in 1609. He tracked their movement over a period of days and realized that not only do those satellites orbit the gas giant, so must the planets orbit the Sun. A heretical notion at the time, but he was right. The Moon is nearby on the 3rd and the 30th. Saturn is well placed for evening viewing in the southwest. Watch for the ring tilt to gradually increase over the next months and years. Watch also for the occasional shadow of one of Saturn’s moons to transit the globe. The Ringed Planet closes in on Neptune over the course of the month, getting to less than 2 degrees away, or so it appears from our vantage. The Moon is 4 degrees away on the 23rd Uranus is in Taurus for all of 2026, hovering near the Pleiades. The blue-green gas planet has been retrograding for several months, now slowing to its stationary point in early February. It’s good to recall that retrograde motion is only apparent, caused

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by Earth’s more rapid orbit closer to the Sun. Neptune is near Saturn in Pisces, where it remains all year. Optical aid is necessary to see the tiny distant disk of the furthest-most planet–30.76 astronomical units away. That’s 30.76 times farther that Earth’s average distance from the Sun, or 4.5 billion kilometres away. Earth is at perihelion of 147,099,894 km (closest distance to the Sun) on January 3. The Quadrantid meteors peak in the afternoon of January 3. James Edgar has had an interest in the night sky all his life. He joined The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2000, was National President for two terms, is now the Editor of the renowned Observer’s Handbook, and Production Manager of the bi-monthly RASC Journal. The IAU named asteroid 1995 XC5 “(22421) Jamesedgar” in his honour and he is a Fellow of the RASC.

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 4

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 70 donates to local organizations

To the Empty Stocking Fund (Erin Katerynych, in the middle), a donation of $1,000 presented by Daniel Sigouin (left) & Darren Roberts (right), on behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 70 North Battleford. | Photos submitted by Allysa Woodrow

Thank You As we turn the page on another year, the staff at The Battlefords Regional News-Optimist would like to extend our sincere thanks to our advertisers for your continued support. Your partnership helps keep our newspaper strong and our communities connected.

City of North Battleford Public Skating (Councillor Rodney Fedler, in middle) receives a donation of $300 presented by Daniel Sigouin (left) & Darren Roberts (right), from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 70 North Battleford.

We wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and we look forward to working together in the year ahead. — The Staff -

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From the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 70 North Battleford, Darren Roberts (left) and Daniel Sigouin (right) present a donation of $250 to Nicole Combres of BGC Battlefords, centre. A community newspaper published Thursdays

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Page 5–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Crown’s bid to challenge McFarlan ruling rejected by Court of Appeal By Lisa Joy SaskToday.ca

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Court of Appeal has rejected the Crown’s attempt to challenge a lower-court ruling that overturned the conviction of Geoffrey McFarlan, a former Neilburg school principal originally sentenced to six months in jail for sexually interfering with a 12-year-old student. The case has been winding through the courts since 2023, when McFarlan was convicted in North Battleford Provincial court after the complainant reported that someone grabbed her buttocks in a crowded school hallway. Two students testified they saw the touch, and the provincial court trial judge found identity proven beyond a reasonable doubt. But in November 2024, the Battleford Court of King’s Bench set aside the conviction, finding the trial judge had misapprehended key evidence and failed to provide legally sufficient reasons for the verdict. Criticizing the provincial court trial judge’s handling of the evidence, Justice Brenda Hildebrandt found that the trial judge’s conclusion that no one else could have committed the act was a misapprehension of the evidence, given what was known about the hallway and student behaviour at the time. She pointed out two major

pieces of evidence the trial judge failed to address. First, the hallway was extremely crowded, with about 40 students from multiple grades present during the five-minute class break. Secondly, members of the Grade 7 class had been engaged in a “butt-grabbing game,” a behaviour the complainant herself described. Justice Hildebrandt wrote that the trial judge’s assertion that no one else was in a position to commit the act “constitutes a misapprehension of the evidence.” Failing to address the crowded hallway and the students’ behaviour, she said was a “clearly identifiable, or palpable, error.” These omissions, the judge found, created the real possibility that someone other than McFarlan committed the act. In overturning McFarlan's conviction, the Battleford Court of King’s Bench decision ordered a new trial, not an acquittal. Crown sought permission to appeal Because the Crown doesn’t have an automatic right to appeal a summary-conviction appeal decision, prosecutors first had to ask the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal for permission, a step called seeking "leave to appeal."This is a gatekeeping process that ensures only cases raising important legal questions or showing compelling errors proceed to a full appeal.

And, on Dec. 8, the province’s top court declined to grant the Crown that permission. Justice Jillyne M. Drennan, writing for a three-judge panel, said the Crown had not shown that the Battleford Court of King’s Bench ruling raised a legal question of general importance or that refusing permission to appeal would cause an injustice. The Crown argued that the summary conviction appeal judge in Battleford Court of King’s Bench misapplied the standards of review and misunderstood parts of the evidence. But the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal found that the legal principles, such as how courts assess sufficiency of reasons or misapprehension of evidence, are already well established. “There is no indication that this is a systemic issue which would have import beyond the confines of this case,” wrote Justice Drennan, in concurrence with Justices Georgina Jackson and Neal Caldwel. New trial still available The Saskatchewan Court of Appeal pointed out that McFarlan wasn’t acquitted by the Battleford Court of King's Bench and the Crown still has the option to retry the case in North Battleford Provincial Court. "From a remedy standpoint, I am also mindful that

as Mr. McFarlan was not acquitted by the summary conviction appeal judge, the Crown may retry its case," said Justice Drennan. "The important point in declining to grant leave in this matter is that the Crown’s proposed

appeal would not be significant to the administration of justice generally." Crown’s application dismissed “For all these reasons, the Crown’s application for leave to appeal the decision is de-

nied,” ruled Justice Drennan in her December decision. The matter now returns to the provincial court trial level if the Crown decides to retry McFarlan. -With files by Miguel Fenrich

Sask. group expands youth training to fight rising gender violence By Jon Perez SaskToday.ca

SASKATOON — Saskatchewan continues to record some of the highest rates of gender-based and intimate partner violence in the country, according to new data that has prompted renewed calls for prevention and stronger supports. A 2024 Statistics Canada report shows 86 per cent of intimate partner violence cases reported in the province involved physical assault. Saskatchewan has also consistently ranked among the provinces with the highest rates of police-reported family violence, regularly exceeding the national average. In 2022, 5,839 females reported being victims of intimate partner violence compared to 1,412 males. Females accounted for 83 per cent of domestic violence victims, and 82 per cent of offenders were men. The Saskatoon Police Service reported 696 IPV

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cases last year, down from a five-year high of 720 in 2023. Of those, 535 resulted in charges. Women and girls are twice as likely to be victims of family violence and 3.5 times more likely to be victims of intimate partner violence than men and boys. Police say emotional abuse in teen relationships continues to be a leading precursor to later physical or sexual abuse. Against this backdrop, Canadian non-profit Future Black Female is working to expand its gender-based violence prevention efforts in Saskatchewan. The organization has partnered with Saskatoon-based Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation Inc. to train youth as community educators. “The project started with some really intensive research,” said FBF founding executive director Dr. Tapo Chimbganda. “We interviewed academics and community leaders from Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and here in Can-

ada… At the end of it, they get a certificate to facilitate discussions and workshops on GPV and IPV.” Ten young people in Saskatoon have recently trained to lead prevention work among their peers. FBF also hosts roundtable discussions with social workers, community advocates, and domestic violence shelters. Chimbganda said incidents of gender-based and intimate partner violence surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and have not significantly declined. Poverty, economic strain and the rise of anti-feminist rhetoric have contributed to the ongoing risk, she said. “The numbers haven't necessarily gone down,” she said. “Because of economic challenges and hardships, that violence is still quite prevalent in relationships, in homes.” She noted that abuse extends beyond physical harm to financial control, verbal Continued on page 6

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 6

JANUARY AT THE CLUB On behalf of BGC Battlefords we wish you all a safe, happy & healthy New Year! Sparkles, smiles, and a brand-new year — our members are ready to shine in 2026! Get your 2026 Memberships NOW! Memberships will once again be FREE in 2026—no payment required! If you’d like to make a donation in place of the fee, please contact our office at 306-445-0002 or send an e-transfer to payments@bgcb.ca (include your child’s full name in the memo). Tax receipts are available for donations over $20. Families with a valid 2025–2026 Satellite Site Membership Form (Bready, EMBM, BCS/St. Vital, or Holy Family) do not need to submit a 2026 form. To ensure we have your most up-to-date information, please visit www.bgcbattlefords.ca to complete the 2026 Membership Form. Thank you! Non-School Days Program: WE ARE OPEN ON THE NON-SCHOOL DAYS! Our Non-School Day Program runs Friday, January 2 & Friday, January 30 at our Main Site (1301–104th Street) from 7:30am–5:30pm. Kids can enjoy a full day of crafts, games, activities, and FUN! Breakfast, lunch, and a snack are provided at no cost. Children must have a new 2026 Membership Form to participate. Those with a valid 2025–2026 Satellite Site Membership Form (BCS/St. Vital, Bready, EMBM, Holy Family) are already covered! Satellite Site Programs: Our Satellite Site Programs are running at BCS (serving BCS & St. Vital), Bready, EMBM, and Holy Family — now including a Before School Program! Programs operate Monday–Friday on school days, before-school programming runs from 7:30am–8:30am & after-school programming runs from class dismissal until 5:30pm. Kids enjoy outdoor play, crafts, games, snacks, and more in a safe, welcoming space. Main Site Drop-in Program: Our Main Site Drop-In Program (1301–104th Street) is open six days a week for children and youth ages 5–14 — FREE with a new 2026 Membership Form! Hours (excluding stat holidays): Monday–Friday: 3:30–8:30pm & Saturdays: 1:00–4:00pm. Contact our office for early dismissal and PD Day information. Kids can enjoy outdoor activities, crafts, science experiments, snacks, meals, and more — all in a safe, welcoming space for fun, learning, and connection. *For more information on our programs and how to register, visit our website at www.bgcbattlefords.ca January dates to remember: • Thursday, January 1 – Happy New Year! (Office and all Programming CLOSED). • Friday, January 2 – WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: January Jumpstart! Regular office hours resume on this date. • Saturday, January 3 – IFCU Saturday Program: Ringing in the New Year! • Sunday, January 4 – Hockey Program Begins! (Equipment Fitting at BGC Battlefords gymnasium from 1:00pm – 4:00pm, and first session of Hockey Program from 6:00pm – 7:00pm at the Don Ross Arena). • Monday, January 5 – First Day back at School! (all programming resumes regular hours). • Tuesday, January 6 – Guitar Program • Wednesday, January 7 – Kid Food Nation Program • Saturday, January 10 – IFCU Saturday Program: Cosmic Carnival • Sunday, January 11 – Hockey Program • Tuesday, January 13 – Guitar Program • Wednesday, January 14 – Kid Food Nation Program • Saturday, January 17 – IFCU Saturday Program: Berry Cool! • Sunday, January 18 – Hockey Program • Tuesday, January 20 – Guitar Program • Wednesday, January 21 – Kid Food Nation Program & Early Dismissal Day (programming begins at class dismissal). ◊ For Living Sky School Division elementary schoolsplease send lunch for your child. ◊ Afternoon snacks will continue to be provided • Saturday, January 24 – IFCU Saturday Program: Dream Big! • Sunday, January 25 – Hockey Program • Tuesday, January 27 – Guitar Program • Wednesday, January 28 – Kid Food Nation Program • Friday, January 30 – WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: We are Incredible! • Saturday, January 31 – IFCU Saturday Program: Have an Ice Day! Winter Clothing Reminder – Reminder that we do our best to still go outside during the winter months! Please remember to pack the proper winter gear for your child(ren)! As a reminder, 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

Sask. group expands youth training to fight rising gender violence Continued from page 5 violence, social isolation and, increasingly, digital harassment and cyber-abuse. Provincial government response The Saskatchewan government says it continues to invest in measures aimed at preventing gender-based and intimate partner violence. Through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, Saskatchewan is accessing

part of a $20.3-million cost-shared federal investment to support prevention, outreach to underserved communities and stabilization of essential services. At least one-quarter of federal funding must be directed toward education and awareness programs. Separately, the province has invested $32 million through the justice system to support victims of interpersonal violence, including $14.2 million for

community-based organizations providing transition housing, second-stage shelters, and victim services. This fall, the government introduced the Cyberstalking and Coercive Control Act, expanding the definition of interpersonal violence under provincial law to include online harassment and coercive, controlling behaviour. Officials say the change provides clearer legislative support for victims seeking protection.

Saskatchewan crop production hits record high in 2025 Province of Saskatchewan Press Release

Saskatchewan's crop production reached a record 41.9 million metric tonnes (MMT) in 2025, a 13.7 per cent increase over 2024 and 24.1 per cent above the five-year average. "Despite challenges faced

by many producers this growing season, overall Saskatchewan production was up this year thanks to the resilience and innovation of producers," Agriculture Minister David Marit said. "This record production puts us within reach of the growth plan goal of 45 MMT by 2030." The major crops by pro-

duction volume were spring wheat at 12.7 MMT, canola at a record high of 12.2 MMT, durum at 5.4 MMT, barley at 3.5 MMT, lentils at a record high of 2.9 MMT, dry peas at 1.8 MMT and oats at 1.8 MMT. Saskatchewan experienced significant production growth in key crops in 2025, with

lentils up 37.0 per cent, canola up 16.7 per cent, barley up 16.0 per cent, durum up 8.5 per cent and spring wheat up 5.3 per cent. Statistics Canada's Saskatchewan estimates are based on a post-harvest survey of 7,198 farmers conducted from October 3 to November 6, 2025.

Good folks doing good things! A bouquet should go out to the North Battleford Public Library for hosting a free, monthly, adult movie in the library theatre. In November people were entertained by the movie, “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” which was followed in December by, “Chocolat.” These screenings are held in the afternoon with performance time set for 1:30 p.m. “The King’s Speech,” is the next movie. Please join the group, Wednesday, January 14, and support your public library ~ don’t forget to bring a beverage and your favourite snack. Hope to see you there. Barb Sealy

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Page 7–The Battlefords, Thursday, Tuesday, December December30, 11,2025 2025

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Holiday travel: stay alert behind the wheel

Do you have a few Christmas or New Year’s parties to attend this year? Will you be driving yourself—and possibly others—late at night? To ensure your festivities don’t turn into a tragedy, make it a priority to keep yourself and those around you safe by never getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. Multiple effects Driving while impaired poses serious risks, including: • Slowing your reaction time • Reducing your field of vision • Impairing your ability to manoeuvre • Decreasing your concentration • Affecting your short-term memory These impairments can lead to a serious accident and significant legal consequences, including the loss of your driver’s licence. Sensible solutions Fortunately, you can easily avoid risky situations with some simple strategies. If possible, consider staying overnight. If that’s not an option, plan your return trip with a designated driver, a taxi, a ride-share service, or public transit. Remember, even small amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment. In other words, just because you feel fine doesn’t mean you’re fit to drive. Although provincial laws permit a maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) somewhere in the range of 0.05 to 0.08 per cent (50 to 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood), this doesn’t guarantee your safety behind the wheel. Don’t contribute to accident statistics linked to alcohol or drug use while driving. Before you hit the road this holiday season, ensure you’re completely fit to drive. Stay safe and enjoy the festivities!

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 8

Chapel Gallery membership show Submitted by Linda Hauk Battlefords Art Club

SEASONS GREETINGS and 2026 is off to a joyful start. More than a dozen art club members were able to display their art and support the Chapel Gallery membership show. It is an event worth seeing and a great outing for family and friends over the holidays. It's so wonderful to see how art is growing within our community. For more information contact us at Battlefordsartclub@gmail.com

Wor hip Together Worship Toge her Sp pen some quality family time together Spend together.. Worship at the church of your choice. Our community has a number of churches and a variety of denominations for you & your family.

ANGLICAN PARISH

1702 - 106ththe Street, North Battleford Contact News-Optimist to

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am have your church included. Loving God 306-445-7261 Growing Together Serving Others adtakers@png.glaciermedia.ca Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca 1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca

Battleford United Church 52 - 4th Avenue West Battleford, SK

306-937-3177 Worship Leader: Heather MacKinnon

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

Third Avenue United Church Rev. Jo-Ann Hills

Sunday Worship Services at 10:45 am

306-445-8171 Live Streaming Available at www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net

Everyone Welcome

Rev. Trevor Malyon Rev. Jan Trost

LIVING FAITH Sunday Services 10:30 am CHAPEL 1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

Ukrainian Catholic Parish of All Saints 902 - 108th Street, North Battleford

Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Leonid Malkov Ofﬁce: 1-306-343-6516

Notre Dame de Lourdes Church

12th Ave. & 104th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 1S8 PASTOR: Rev. Father Millan Sajonas Ofﬁce: 306-445-3836 Mass Times: Saturdays: 7:00 pm Sundays: 11:00 am & 5:00 pm (except July & August) Sundays: 9:30 am St. André’s Church E: nddelourdes_nb@padiocese.ca • www.notredameparish.ca

St. Paul’s Anglican Church North Battleford Sunday @ 10:30 a.m. St. George’s Anglican Church Battleford Sunday @ 5:00 p.m. Watch the Sunday Morning Service on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/battleriverparish Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

Living Water Ministry Sr. Pastor Brian Arcand 306-441-9385 Pastor Anand George 306-441-7138

Sunday Afternoon Service 3:00 p.m.

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Battlefords Cowboy Church Services 1st & 3rd Thursday of each Month

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m. PASTOR - Rick Martin

ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S 11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

Phone 306-937-7340 PASTOR - Fr. Manh Nguyen

Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m. Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

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Page 9–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Happy New Year Servicing All Makes and Models NEW ADDRESS

North Battleford mayor outlines major safety and growth plans for 2026

2621 98th Street, North Battleford

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By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD The City of North Battleford has many plans in store for 2026 as it continues to advance its initiatives. North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin said updating the Official Community Plan will be one of the priorities for the city. “It’s 10 years old, and it’s time for a full update,” she said. “So that will be a highlight.” The city will also be adding new safety initiatives downtown, including adding security cameras and enhancing lighting. “There will be more information coming from administration early in 2026,” said Hawtin. “There was a proposal in the budget to add some funds specifically for safety initiatives downtown.” North Battleford will also see the opening of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service regional headquarters and will be the site of a major conference in 2026. “We’ll be hosting our second Guns and Gangs Symposium in 2026, through the

Happy New Year from Leon & the staff at the Subways in the Battlefords

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North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin. | Photo submitted by Kelli Hawtin Battlefords Regional Community Coalition,” Hawtin said. The gang prevention symposium brings together professionals and youth to increase awareness of the dangers of guns and gang involvement. “It was a good opportunity to gather community

Why do we celebrate the New Year?

agencies for some learning, but also to work better together to enhance safety and well-being in the community,” Hawtin said of the 2025 event. Also in 2026, the city will be continuing talks about the proposed regional arena. “We have an operating model,” said Hawtin. “[And]

just about a month or two ago, I went to Ottawa to advocate for infrastructure funding. We’re going to continue that work through 2026. We don’t know what the federal budget will look like in 2026, but we are hopeful to see partnered infrastructure funding to turn this project into a reality.”

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Happy New New Year! Happy Year!

Battlefords Regional News Optimist staff People celebrate New Year for a mix of practical, cultural, and deeply human reasons: A way to mark time New Year celebrations grew out of early calendars used by ancient societies to track seasons, agriculture, and astronomy. Marking the start of a new cycle helped communities plan planting, harvests, and rituals tied to the sun and moon. A sense of renewal Across cultures, the New Year symbolizes a fresh start. It’s a natural pause point-a chance to reflect on the past, let go of mistakes or hardships, and imagine doing things better in the year ahead. That’s why traditions like resolutions, cleaning homes, or forgiveness rituals are so common. Community and continuity Celebrating together reinforces shared identity. Whether it’s fireworks, special meals, prayers, or quiet reflection, New Year rituals remind people they belong to something larger than themselves and that life continues in a meaningful rhythm. Hope in uncertain times Even when life is difficult, a New Year offers hope-the idea that change is possible simply because time is moving forward. That hope can be powerful, especially after hardship. Different calendars, same idea Not everyone celebrates on January 1. Lunar New Year, Orthodox New Year, and other calendar-based New Years all reflect the same impulse: to honor endings and beginnings in a way that makes sense to a particular culture or faith. In short, people celebrate New Year because humans have always needed moments to pause, reset, and hope-and the turning of the year gives us a shared moment to do exactly that.

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Happy New Year! from our families to yours!

As we gear up for another busy HOLIDAY SEASON, we’d just like to take a moment to thank all of our loyal customers. Thank you and best wishes for a prosperous NEW YEAR!

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Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 10

Happy New Year

Staffing, crime reduction top Battlefords RCMP priorities for 2026

Partners in Emergency Mobile Health Services in Saskatchewan

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD Increasing staffing and working to reduce property crime are among the Battlefords RCMP’s goals for 2026. Battlefords RCMP Insp. Ryan How discussed some of the police service’s objectives for the year ahead in a recent interview with SaskToday. Dealing with the current staffing shortage is one of the local RCMP’s main priorities. “I’m very pleased to say that we have a lot of incoming members, experienced members coming into the Battlefords,” said How. “Word is getting out that this is a great place to live and it’s an amazing place to work if you’re a police officer. So we have a lot of interest from experienced members wanting to come and live here. As those members arrive, our resources will stabilize.”

We wish you a Joyful and Happy New Year!

The RCMP is looking at bringing in many more experienced officers in the next couple of months. The Battlefords RCMP is also focusing on strengthening its efforts to combat property crime. “We really want to increase the visibility and decrease the response times,” How said. “I think that’s our priority. We have to remain nimble and available to the public.” Dealing with prolific offenders is also a priority for police. “In addition, we have some creative ideas waiting for the resources to arrive where we can start tackling some of the more prolific offenders, leveraging some technology,” How said. “It just takes some extra time and resources to do that, and multiple members. So once we have more members in place, we’ll be able to really start getting some creative initiatives underway.” Regarding the former li-

Battlefords RCMP Insp. Ryan How. | Photo by Angela Brown quor store building in down- expand our footprint mutown North Battleford, the nicipally because there’ll be RCMP are still working to adequate space for us here. convert the space for use as But the provincial units and a training facility and to host support units will be moved provincial units. next door, and [it will be] a “Detachment resourc- training facility as well. It’ll es are going to stay in this be an RCMP support services building [the detachment],” building.” How said. “We’re going to

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Regional News-Optimist

Page 11–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

306-445-9800 9800 Territorial Drive North Battleford Territorial Place Mall

Continuing strong economy among Battlefords MLA’s focuses for 2026 By Angela Brown

Seasons Greetings

SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORDS - Battlefords MLA and Saskatchewan Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill is looking ahead to a healthy economy and several new initiatives in 2026. Cockrill said despite the economic headwinds people across Canada hear about in the news, Saskatchewan continues to maintain a robust economy heading into the new year. “Year-to-date, Saskatchewan is beating all the provinces in housing starts, beating [them] in [low] unemployment [rates], which just goes to show you that there are a ton of employment opportunities in our province,” he said. “Obviously, with housing starts, as there’s more people moving to the province to take those jobs, we need to make sure there are places for them to live. So [there’s] really some encouraging data that way.” For 2026, Cockrill said he is looking forward to the Saskatchewan economy “continuing to punch above its weight in Canada and the world.” Another initiative Cockrill said he is pleased with

2026

Sakewew High School

Jeremy Cockrill as shown at his campaign office in October 2024. | Photo by Angela Brown is the introduction of the expanding opportunities Another focus for Cockrill Compassionate Intervention for recovery, and then also will be continuing commuAct during the fall session expanding opportunities nity safety initiatives across in Regina. for people to experience re- Saskatchewan and in the The province introduced covery and get back in their Battlefords. the legislation to support community, whether that’s “There will be more ofpeople with severe addic- initiatives like the Drug ficers coming through the tions who are unable to seek [Treatment] Court, whether [Saskatchewan] Marshals help despite serious health that’s compassionate inter- Service to the Battlefords and and safety risks. The Com- vention, whether that’s ex- region,” he said. “So that’s passionate Intervention Act panding out complex needs positive. [They will continue] would allow for involuntary facilities that we have already to work with our RCMP partaddictions treatment. in Regina and Saskatoon,” ners on expanding the ser“[I’m] really looking for- Cockrill said. vices that we have available ward to how we’re going to He noted that addictions in our community and right continue adding addictions recovery will be a major fo- across the province to make treatment spaces in the prov- cus for the province during sure that laws are enforced ince over the next year here, 2026. and people are kept safe.”

Wishing your family peace and comfort during this holiday season

Happy New Year We wish you a healthy, successful and peaceful NEW YEAR from Staff and Management

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Happy New Year! May the year ahead bring peace, joy and prosperity to your heart and home, and may it be filled with meaningful moments. As your Saskatchewan Party MLAs, we wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year and all the best in 2026.

Hon. Jeremy Harrison

MLA for Meadow Lake (306) 236-6669 | jharrisonmla@sasktel.net

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier

MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook (306) 747-3422 | scottmoe.mla@sasktel.net

Joint News Optimist New Year Edition - HarrisonJ, Moe, Cockrill, Thorsteinson_9.875x3.9286.indd 1

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill

MLA for The Battlefords (306) 445-5195 | office@jeremycockrill.ca

James Thorsteinson

MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford (306) 893-2619 | office@cktmla.ca 12/19/2025 2:25:57 PM

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 12

Thank you for your Patronage in 2025

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Moe reflects on 2025 as tariffs, fires reshape Saskatchewan’s year By John Cairns SaskToday.ca

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In Part 1 of SaskToday year-end interview, Premier Scott Moe reflects on 2025’s upheaval, from trade wars to wildfires and major policy shifts. REGINA - For Premier Scott Moe and his Sask Party government, the past year 2025 was a year turned upside down by the tariff and trade issue. It was also a year marked by wildfires, ongoing health-care pressures and the sporting achievements of Saskatchewan’s Grey Cup-winning team, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, all of which dominated discussion at the legislature. SaskToday had a chance to sit down and speak to Premier Scott Moe in a year-end interview, conducted in the cabinet room. SaskToday began by asking Premier Moe about some of the changes made just a week earlier in a cabinet shuffle. On the cabinet shuffle "We did have a shuffle, and it was really focused on building capacity across our governing caucus, not just in the cabinet room. "A year out from the election, we now have five, maybe six, fairly newly-elected members that are going to have just that honour ... to serve in the cabinet on behalf of the people of Saskatchewan. So it is going to allow us to build that capacity across government, and it's also, I think, going to, in many ways, allow us to bring a fresh perspective to this room, which is always a positive, as well as the hon-

Premier Scott Moe from the Premier’s office as he reflects on 2025. | Photo by John Cairns our truly is to serve as an other each and every day, big way with how we create elected member. all year long, to celebrate in wealth and jobs and oppor"That honour is increased those few days. tunities in our community. if you have the opportunity "They were here to cap off We're faced now with a situto serve in government, and the Rider parade, the Grey ation where our three largest there's very few people over Cup winning team parade, markets, the United States, the history of this province and it was … I think, a sweet China and India, we have tarthat have had the opportunity day for the province of Sas- iffs or market-related issues to serve in this room. When katchewan. And I don't think in each of those markets, and you think of all the decisions it's a one and done when you so we have some work to do. that have been made in this see some of the players that "That's why I was in Washroom over the last 120 years, are committing to come back ington, D.C. meeting with it truly is a special honour for and play. That commitment Secretary (Howard) Lutnick, a Saskatchewan resident to that they had to one another Secretary Scott Bessent, as serve in here. So we're look- and to the people of the prov- well as Ambassador (Jamesing forward to convening ince this year, it looks to be on) Greer to further advance with the new cabinet sooner like they're setting up to make the opportunity for Canada rather than later, and moving that same commitment next and the U.S. to get back to forward on behalf of the peo- year, so that's exciting." the negotiating table, as we ple of the province." On the tariff know they're not at that table On the Saskatchewan and trade issue as we speak. We did the same Roughriders winning "Wherever you look, in China… just over a month the Grey Cup whether it's in the province, ago, trying to bring Canada "Each of us feel a degree of whether it's nationally, or and China back to that negoownership and involvement whether it's with our inter- tiating table. A year ago, we in that team, win or lose, and national relations, there's did it in Mexico. this year we were fortunate been a lot going on the last "If you'll remember, Mexenough to win and win it all number of months on the ico and Canada were not at in Winnipeg, which I think international space, where that negotiating table, and just makes it all the sweeter. Saskatchewan is very much we tried to bring that clos"You saw those emotions connected, exporting to over er as well. ... The role that pour out from that team that 160 countries each and every Saskatchewan can play in the was so dedicated to one an- year. We're in that space in a Continued on page 13

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Regional News-Optimist

Page 13–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Chair Glenda Rye and The Board of Directors wishes everyone a Very Happy and Prosperous

Trade access, Ottawa relations emerge as key issues Continued from page 12 contacts ... and the relationships that we have developed internationally from a provincial perspective is use those relationships to advance our Canadian opportunity at each of those, in each of those market-based relationships that we have, whether it be U.S., China, Mexico or India, or any other country around the world." On the new tone from new Prime Minister Mark Carney since the federal election "Let's talk about what the challenges were previous and post the change in prime minister in this country. So previous with he who should not be named, I would say that us as a province felt that often we were having unconsulted policy imposed on us that was having a negative impact on the industries that were employing people, creating wealth for families and communities, and we didn't like that very much. So we fought back in every way, whether it was the unconsulted carbon tax, whether it was environmental regulations that were hindering investment in the oil and mining industry in this province. Whatever it might be, we fought back against those unconsulted policies that were harmful to how we create jobs and wealth in Saskatchewan. "You turn the table to today with a new leader, a new prime minister, and actually a very different challenge that we're facing, and we're facing it as Canadians, and that's international leaders that are talking about tariffs and restricting market access for Canadian products to places

like the United States, China, India, and others. "That is a very real threat, not just to the Saskatchewan economy, but the Canadian economy, and that's very different than what we had faced before with these unconsulted policies coming from the federal government. This is a time when we have to come together, use the resources that we have, the contacts, the relationships that we have as a province to advance Canada's interests, because if the current prime minister is able to have a successful trade deal with the United States, with China, with India, that's not only good for Canada, that's good for Saskatchewan, and that's what we need at the end of the day. A very different challenge, and I would say a very different person, one that is collaborating more with provinces rather than just instituting unconsulted policies, one that is focused on elevating Canada's stature and credibility in the international trade sphere, and we're very supportive of both of those things. "We won't agree on everything with the new prime minister. However, the approach that he has brought to collaborating with provinces, elevating Canada's stature in the international space, that is certainly a cause for us to change our tone to some degree, and we have, and to work together on issues where we can agree, which are more than they used to be." On what’s on the minds of agriculture producers "It's market access. As I said earlier we have tariff and market-based challeng-

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es in our three largest market around the world and largely those are centered around agriculture products - U.S., India, China. Those are significant markets for us and for agricultural products and we have impositions in each of those markets as we look at it today. What is on the minds of the farmers in this province today is, one: what is their cost of production; and two: we're literally missing many many dollars off our bottom line because of the price that we are receiving because we don't have access to the markets that we normally enjoy. "So we need to work with our federal government in negotiating some trade peace and some trade certainty moving forward… the Canadian economy and the ag economy is facing today those choppy waters I hope are temporary and they're short term, because in the long term Saskatchewan is poised to very much be a provider and a producer of what the world needs moving forward, and that's food, fuel and fertilizer and agriculture to be at the very center of it. But we have a short-term challenge, and that is I think most evident in the ag industry in this province today." Highlights in terms of government policies including the removal of the provincial carbon tax "[The] only carbon taxfree province in the nation of Canada is the province of Saskatchewan. "Now we're continuing to work with and negotiate with the federal government on what our electricity future looks like and how we can

maybe find some common ground in this space, but today we've taken what is a pretty drastic policy decision in removing that carbon tax from everyone's electricity bills and virtually any mark of it being charged across the province. "There are many things that have happened over the course of the last year that have caused not just our government but other provincial governments to be reactive in many cases, but we've also, I think, been proactive in many cases as well and worked alongside other provinces, whether it be aligning, I guess you'd say, our investments in health care so that we can actually build out our human resources and health care across Canada, not just in one province or the other. So there's much in the way of challenges and much in the way of policy development that provinces need to be looking at, and we're certainly doing the same." The reason for the focus this session on ‘Strong, Safe and Secure’ "When you think about Saskatchewan, those words really sum up who we are. Strong economy, safe communities and securing our future, and that is the focus of this government. And we've really narrowed that focus down to a few points. "Continue to ensure our province is affordable into the future. Remove the carbon tax would be one of the initiatives and policies that would ensure that to be the case. Let's focus on our health-care investment in two priority areas. Continued on page 14

Wishing you Wishing all the joyyou and all the joyof and warmth the warmth of the Christmas Christmas season season

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 14

2026 Enjoy the true gifts of

Family, Friends, Health And Love.

Happy New Year

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Health care, community safety and wildfire recovery take focus Continued from page 13 “People being able to access a primary health-care provider and a timely surgery. Very focused investments that are coming in that space. “Education, let’s focus on our K-3 outcomes. A child that’s reading, writing and adding at the Grade 3 level is going to have that. [They are] going to be able to learn to read so that in years subsequent are able to read to learn. And I think elevating those Grade 3 outcomes is something that everyone can agree on. “Last but not least is safe community. Strong, safe, secure. And that is really a two-pronged focus. “One is our communities and all too many individuals that often are friends and family are being impacted by the poisonous drugs that are in our nation, our province and in our Saskatchewan communities. And we’re very focused on building the recovery capacity in this province, the access to those recovery points. And we are focusing on recovery. And that is the path forward. A life on the streets is a vulnerable place for an individual to be and want them to enter a recovery lifestyle. “And the second point of the focus is to keep our community safe by increasing the provincial investment in enforcement, law enforcement officers. And you saw that with 100 additional municipal officers being committed to, invested in by the province in our municipal areas of jurisdiction, 180 RCMP officers being invested in provincial investment to keep our community safe

across this province in the formation of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service, and other 70 officers that are going to be available to ensure that whether you live in Regina, La Ronge, Estevan or Kamsack, we’re going to do our level best to take the drugs off the street, provide those that unfortunately have entered a life of addictions a recovery opportunity and keep our community safe so that a family can go to the park after supper.” On the northern wildfire response and lessons learned “First, my heartfelt thoughts go ... to those individuals that lost their home whether it be in Denare Beach or East Trout Lake in what was a very tragic wildfire season. “Fortunately, we did not lose any lives, but we lost far too many homes not unlike what has happened in years gone by in places like Jasper and Fort McMurray. So we have commissioned MNP to do a review like they did in Jasper and other communities when something like this has happened for any lessons learned on the operations and the response to the wildfire itself, as well as the seamless evacuation of families and individuals too. And there’ll be recommendations, I’m sure, on how we can improve both of those services moving forward. “This government has been there to engage in particular with the community and individuals that lost their homes in Denare Beach on how we can support them in the short term with housing through this winter, with cleaning up

the community, so that they can start to move new homes in, and there are some coming in this fall, hopefully, more will be coming in this spring. “The next step for us as a government outside of that review and the lessons learned on the operations will be, and Denare Beach is a great place for us to start this discussion, how do we partner with the federal government and the community on a significant expansion in fire-smarting our northern communities. So that in the case of Denare Beach, those families that may want to rebuild in that community, give them the confidence that we are doing everything that we can, collectively and together, to ensure that if we’re faced with fire again - and we likely will be in their lifetime - that they’ve done everything in the way of a firebreak, a wet line, sprinklers maybe, in the community to ensure that their community isn’t going to sustain the damage and the loss of homes as tragic as that was this past summer, and we’re not going to have that experience again. And to extend that confidence to other northern communities. … We have fires every year, significantly more, and the ferocity and veracity of them this year was much more and the loss of homes this year was much more than we’ve ever experienced, so we have a duty to lead in this discussion and we intend to.” SaskToday has more to come in our year-end conversation with Premier Scott Moe. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we focus on what’s ahead for the government in 2026.

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Page 15–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

New Year FARMER RancheR Happy Christmas China might start importing corn and wheat By Sean Pratt SaskToday.ca

SASKATOON - What happens with the wheat market going forward largely depends on China, says an analyst. Canadian farmers harvested a record 40 million tonnes of wheat in 2025, including 29.3 million tonnes of spring wheat. The good news is that exports have been surpassing last year’s record pace so far in 2025-26. Chuck Penner, analyst with LeftField Commodity Research, thinks exports could hit a record 24 million tonnes, although it is still early days. The problem with this year’s wheat market is that there was record production by the top seven exporters. Minneapolis wheat futures have been relatively flat despite the global glut of the commodity, indicating that something is going on with the demand side of the ledger. Penner said China has not been getting enough attention. There are reports of significant quality losses with China’s corn and spring wheat crops. China’s farmers just finished harvest, and corn and wheat prices are already starting to rebound, suggesting that domestic supplies are inadequate. “If China were to start buying corn and wheat again in a bigger way, that changes the global dynamic to quite a large degree,” he told delegates attending the Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan’s annual general meeting. Prices are in the sideways phase of the seasonal cycle. That usually lasts until March and then prices strengthen, peaking in May. Penner is not anticipating a huge price response in the spring of 2026, but there is potential for appreciation if China starts buying more Canadian wheat. There are also some questions about China’s winter wheat crop, but crops in the United States and the Black Sea are off to a decent start. Canadian barley and U.S. corn prices have been almost interchangeable in Lethbridge the last few years. However, U.S. corn is now priced at a sizeable premium so far in 2025-26 due to Canada’s plethora

of feed barley production. “Canadian barley is a bargain,” said Penner. “That kind of rules out a lot of those imports from the U.S. and shifts more demand back toward Canadian barley.”

Exports have been moving at a good clip because Canadian barley is priced well below barley from France, Ukraine, Argentina and Australia. That should help draw down stocks.

The downside is that there is more feed wheat, durum and oats due to quality issues with those crops. Canadian farmers produced 7.1 million tonnes of durum, the largest crop since 2016-17.

Combined ending stocks for Canada, the EU and the U.S. is expected to approach four million tonnes, the largest amount since 2018-19. That means Canada is facing stiff competition in

export markets. Prices in the EU are “crazy flat,” while tender values in Tunisia have been on the decline. “The global market right now is just very, very quiet,” said Penner.

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Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 16

WISHING YOU HEALTH AND HAPPINESS IN 2026

Ukrainian Christmas

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An unhurried Christmas rooted in Ukrainian tradition Battlefords Regional News Optimist staff

HDC

In many Ukrainian homes, Christmas arrives quietly after the rush has passed. In others, it may mean two celebration, one on Dec. 25 and another on Jan. 7, shaped by tradition, memory and faith, unfolding at its own gentle pace. On Christmas Eve, known as Sviat Vechir, the table is set with 12 meatless dishes, each symbolizing the apostles. There is kutia–sweet wheat berries mixed with honey and poppy seeds - alongside borscht, cabbage rolls, fish, and mushrooms gathered or preserved months earlier. An empty place setting is often left at the table, a quiet nod to absent loved ones and ancestors who are still remembered. Before the meal begins, families wait for the first star to appear in the night sky, recalling the Star of Bethlehem. Only then do they sit together, sharing food and stories passed down through generations. Candles flicker in the windows, a sign of welcome and hope. For Ukrainians who have carried these traditions across oceans, Jan. 7 can feel especially poignant. It is a link to home, to grandparents and great-grandparents, to a way of life that endures even as circumstances change. In recent years, amid uncertainty and hardship, these traditions have taken on deeper meaning–reminders of resilience, identity and the enduring strength of community. Christmas on Jan. 7 is not late. It is simply unhurried. It is a celebration that arrives when the world is quiet again, bringing with it warmth, faith and the timeless comfort of traditions kept alive, year after year.

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A traditional Ukrainian Christmas candle featuring a cross and star, symbols of faith and the Star of Bethlehem, is often used as a centrepiece during Sviat Vechir, the Christmas Eve supper. | Photo by Lia Den on Unsplash

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Regional News-Optimist

Page 17–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

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Holubtsi: a cherished Ukrainian Christmas tradition Holubtsi, or cabbage rolls, are a beloved comfort food in Ukrainian households and a familiar sight during the Christmas season. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savoury filling and baked slowly in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce. Fillings vary by family and tradition, with meatless versions often served on Christmas Eve, and heartier meat-filled rolls enjoyed on Christmas Day and throughout the holidays. Passed down through generations, holubtsi reflect the warmth, generosity, and shared heritage at the heart of Ukrainian Christmas celebrations.

Happy Ukrainian Christmas And May God’s Grace Be With You.

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Cabbage rolls in tomato sauce (Holubtsi) Serves: 4–6 • Difficulty: Medium • Cook time: About 1 hour

Ingredients Cabbage rolls • 12 cabbage leaves • 1 lb (500 g) ground beef • ¾ cup cooked rice • ½ cup chopped onion • ½ cup milk

• 1 egg • 2 tsp salt • 1 tsp pepper Tomato sauce • 1 can tomato paste • 1 can chopped tomatoes

• ½ cup water • 2 Tbsp vinegar • 3 Tbsp sugar • 2 Tbsp cornstarch • ½ cup cold water

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 6. In a separate bowl, mix together tomato 2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add paste, chopped tomatoes, water, vinecabbage leaves, cover, and let sit for gar, and sugar. Pour the sauce evenly about three minutes, just until softened. over the cabbage rolls. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. 7. Cover the baking dish and bake for 40 minutes. 3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, milk, 8. Carefully remove the cabbage rolls egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until from the pan and discard toothpicks. evenly combined. Divide the mixture Transfer rolls to a serving platter. into 12 equal portions. 9. In a small bowl, stir cornstarch with 4. Place one portion of filling near the cold water until smooth. Add this centre of each cabbage leaf. Fold the mixture to the remaining sauce in the sides in and roll up tightly. Secure with baking dish. Heat gently, stirring, until toothpicks if needed. the sauce thickens. 5. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side 10. Spoon the thickened sauce over the down in a baking dish. cabbage rolls. Garnish as desired and serve hot.

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The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 18

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468 AMENDED PUBLIC NOTICE – Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw Amendment Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 (RM) intends to adopt two (2) bylaws under The Planning and Development Act, 2007; Bylaw No. 26-2025 to amend Bylaw No. 38-2024 known as the Official Community Plan (OCP), and Bylaw No. 24-2025 to amend Bylaw No. 39-2024 known as the Zoning Bylaw. INTENT: Bylaw No. 26-2025: to be consistent with a recent Provincial Government change to The Statements of Provincial Interest regarding flood elevation levels. 2691-98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours

Bylaw No. 24-2025: to clean up some inconsistencies within the bylaw, clarifying fence height and setbacks, corner lot setbacks, RPSR requirements for uncovered decks or when multiple developments are included on one permit, and defining when a permit is required for retaining walls and decks regardless of size or area. Additionally, adding in temporary winter storage as a use, and introducing permanent construction camps as a permitted use within the Agriculture District. Rectifying the contradiction of market gardens and tree nurseries being listed as both a permitted use and a discretionary use. Finally, amending definitions to reflect above changes such as building, corner lot, corner lot visibility triangle, site coverage, park model home, and 1:200 flood hazard elevation.

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Bylaw No. 24-2025 is amended to correct various inconsistencies within the bylaw regarding numbering and section references. Fence height and setbacks are clarified regarding corner lot setbacks and setback from front property lines. Post development RPSR for uncovered decks are not required if they are the only development applied for. Temporary winter storage as a permitted use within Lakeshore Districts to allow for storage from September to May of recreational vehicles, boats, ice shacks, canoes, and similar items is added. Permanent construction camps as a permitted use within the Agriculture District is added because temporary construction camps were only allowed for 6 months. Market gardens and tree nurseries were listed as both permitted and discretionary use; this is rectified by removing them as a permitted use. Finally, definitions within the bylaw to support above changes are clarified.

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PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM Office during regular business hours, excluding statutory holidays. Hard copies will be available to the public at a cost at the RM Office. Digital copies can be obtained by contacting the Development Coordinator (development@rmmeota468.ca; 306-892- 2061).

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PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing at 1:15pm on February 4th, 2026, in the RM office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaws. Public may attend meetings via teleconference or in person. If you wish to attend the meeting via teleconference, please contact the RM administrator, Kirk Morrison, at cao@rmmeota468.ca requesting a meeting link invitation. Council will also consider written comments received on or before 12:00 noon February 3rd, 2026, at the RM office by hardcopy or email before the hearing. The RM office is located at 300 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. The RM Office contact information is (306) 892-2061 or development@rmmeota468.ca.

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Page 19–The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Borden & Area News

St. John’s Anglican Church host special Christmas service By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

The Borden Friendship Club held their annual Christmas bingo in the Club Room on Dec. 18, with 44 out to try winning a turkey or ham for Christmas. Three went to Langham, one to Radisson and the other five to Borden players (I won a ham). The blackout cash prize of $20 went to Joyce Olzewski of Langham. Thanks to Bev Assman for all her work putting on the bingo every month. Next cash bingo will be Wednesday, Jan. 21. Borden School held their Christmas concert on Dec. 18 in the Borden Community Centre (postponed from Dec. 17 due to the storm). K to Grade 12 presented the play, A Charlie Brown Christmas. Before the play, K/1/2 sang The Reindeer Pokey and Must Be Santa, then the Grade 3 and 4 class sang Silent Night and Jingle Bells. The cast sang Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and Here Comes Santa Claus. The narrators were Lilly, May and Leo and the ensemble was Blaire and Ivy. The cast was Max as Charlie, Brielle as Lucy, Odin as Linus, Oph-

elia as Sally, Violet by Lyla, Frieda by Shelby, Pig Pen by David, Shermy by Addison, Schroder by Myla, Patty by Eav, Snoopy by Asher and Woodstock by Edgar. The crew were Allison, Evan, Robyn, Milyana, Madison and Justin. The school sends a big thank you out to the Village of Borden for partnering with them, allowing them to use the Community Centre and supporting them. Also, a big thanks to all the families for creating costumes and driving them in for rehearsals. St. John’s Anglican Church held an ecumenical Christmas festival of readings and music on the Sunday evening of Dec. 21, with over 50 in attendance. Rev. Carr started the service with a reading, Bidding for Christmas, urging us to have joy in our hearts as we hear the story of the birth of Christ. Readings were by Rev. Gayle Wensley, Lorraine Lajoie, Sharon Assman, Lois Friesen, Eleanor Walton, Daryl Wiebe, Brenda Tumbach and Bill Hosegood. Carols were sung between readings. Archie Wainwright and Carrie Harkness, with Charlotte Dubkowski playing piano,

Archie Wainwright and Carrie Harkness singing at an ecumenical Christmas festival of readings and music on the Sunday. | Photo by Lorraine Olinyk sang the beautiful song, the Herald Angel Sing and Personal Messages Hallelujah. Rev. Carr led a blessing by Rev. Carr. He the Prayers of the People said grace before everyone CHRISTMAS DAY WARNING with the congregation say- gathered in the lower hall ing, “Lord, grant us peace for beverages, cookies and Expectation and disappointment. What will you have on Christmas Day? Maybe a bit of both, I would say. after each prayer.” Everyone a time of fellowship. recited the Lord’s Prayer and Wishing everyone all the Our emotions go like roller coasters up and down . Is there anything to help us be on level ground? the service closed with Hark best in 2026.

A new year in your landscape By Patricia Hanbidge Orchid Horticulture

This past year flew by! It is hard to believe that we are once again bringing in a brand new year. How was the last year and what might the new year bring? Have you taken the time in your life to “stop and smell the roses" and enjoy the really important parts of life? What if we lived as our grandparents or great grandparents and spent our days growing food and living a simpler life. We would be closer to our roots and in fact may likely be living a happier life. If you are a gardener in a colder climate that allows you to garden inside, perhaps you are closer to “living the dream” as you are definitely more immersed in horticulture. The wonder of a flower opening, a seed sprouting or dead looking twigs miraculously sprouting green leaves is just a daily occurrence if you surround yourself with growing. But just think, what if everyone had this opportunity to live with the glory of growing plants? Would we cure world hunger? Could we achieve world-wide harmony? I am personally one of the growing trend of people wishing to grow their own food and to make our world a more sustainable place to live. The changes we have seen in our climate are fore-

Brightly coloured mushrooms thrive beneath the forest canopy, illustrating the quiet resilience and diversity of plant life in natural ecosystems. | Photo by Patricia Hanbidge telling of future distress, de- intensively inside. Think struction and death. If you about the space around you. are reading this article, then If you have an area that is not this is your call to take ac- doing anything but growing tion. It doesn't matter how weeds, then why not change small your effort is–it will the landscape and grow food make a difference. Collec- in that area? It is amazing tively, we can alter the path how a very small bit of land that is leading the world as can harvest a lot of food. For we know it to destruction. example, on a boulevard a It is always a good idea few years ago, a group of to grow food to share with us harvested around 1000 those who are less fortunate. pounds of food off of this Just prior to Christmas, I small little area. We grew harvested large amounts of corn, potatoes and onions, fancy leaf lettuce and fresh enjoyed a corn roast and herbs. I know that this valu- donated the rest of the proable harvest brought smiles duce to The Friendship Inn. to many faces. I survive the They graciously accepted our winter season by growing gift and many people who

are less fortunate enjoyed a number of very good and nutritious meals as a result of our selfless labours. While the weather is less hospitable, it allows us more time to pause and reflect about what we wish to change in the garden as spring approaches. Think about trying to grow at least a little bit of the food that you consume. Think about the things that were not working well so you can now begin planning on a better outcome. Most people want a landscape that is beautiful, requires only a small amount of maintenance and of course does not require endless amounts of money while providing food for your table! If your landscape did not fulfill all your dreams, then right now is the time to start to make changes. All the best to you and yours… 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… https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?

There are enemies sneaking in to steal our Christmas joy. Watch out for envy and entitlement every girl and boy! How can we keep these enemies away So we can have a joy filled Christmas Day? We need to know our enemy, so let’s deal with envy first. Because your joy bubble, envy wants it popped, it wants it burst. Envy is wanting what someone else has as your very own. Envy can be cruel yes, right to the bone! Someone got a more expensive gift than you, So then your attitude quickly turns blue. You are short and mean to the one the gift was to. You sit in the corner pouting, Now this is your cue. You have an enemy to fight, but not in your own power. You need God’s help this very hour! Now bow your head and humbly pray, because you are not giving envy your Christmas Day! Ask God to help you be content with your lot. Knowing true joy is not something that is bought. The second enemy is entitlement It is rigid and hard like cement. You owe it to me. I deserve this it screams. For entitlement has made up its unrealistic dreams. I will only be happy if I get this or that. I wanted a cuddly puppy, not a fat cat! I want a brand new Lego set. I didn’t get it , and now I am upset. When we don’t get what we think we deserve Our feeling get so badly hurt. What if this Christmas we went with a different attitude? I choose joy and I won’t be rude. I choose to be thankful for everything I will get I won’t have unmet expectations that get me upset. I will be happy for others and what they receive. God’s way to joy is what I believe. He didn’t say rejoice in your things. Rejoice in Lord is what I sing. The Lord is perfect. He never fails! Our earthly gifts won’t prevail. They get broken and old and not shiny any more, But the Lord has greater things for us in store. Money can’t buy love, joy or peace But God’s gifts will never cease. So I am warning you this Christmas Day Don’t let envy and entitlement steal your joy away. By: WiNONA (John3:30) Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Tuesday, December 30, 2025–Page 20

MANY WISHES FOR THE

We appreciate your support of our businesses in the

306-445-3500 Box 1270, 91-23rd Street West Battleford, SK • S0M 0E0

Town of Battleford “The Little Town with the Big Heart”

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This holiday season, we wish you and your family a very Happy New Year.

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Happy py Lions Park gazebo and trees lit up for the holidayHappy season. | Courtesy Battleford Spirit Group New Year!

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218 22 Street West, Battleford

306-937-2642

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE

BATTLEFORD REMEDY’S Rx

181-22nd Street | Battleford | 306-937-2600 | Fax 306-937-3298 Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm • Saturday 9 am to 5 pm • Closed Sundays and all Stats.

218 22 Street West, Battleford

306-937-2642

Discovery Coop Battleford Bar, Convenience Store and Car Wash Gas 81 Battleford Crossing Store and Pharmacy Grocery 906 Battleford Road ®

Happy New Year!

Vista Towing

We’re pulling for you to have a Happy New Year! 24 Hour Emergency Service during the Holidays

VISTA TOWING Battleford, SK • Phone 306-445-2372

From

Located in Battleford

2026

Our Best Days are still ahead of us!

Happy New Year!

306.480.8812

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! from

Located in Battleford 306-490-7867