February 5 2026 by Battlefords News Optimist

Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club opens grain elevator shelter

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORDS — Snowmobile enthusiasts visited a new, unique warming shelter during a grand opening hosted by the Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club on Jan. 29.

The Hamlin Grain Elevator Shelter is located north of the Battlefords, off Trail 101-B.

“We made it similar to a grain elevator,” said Dale Charabin, with Charabin Seed Farm and a member of the club.

He said the club was looking to design shelters with a Saskatchewan theme, and the idea for a shelter that looked like a grain elevator came up.

The project is valued at $80,000, and came possible with support from donations and many volunteers who helped build it.

North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin and Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie were among the dignitaries who attended the grand opening.

Charabin said he used to have a grain elevator on his farm, so he was able to provide some antiques used inside the warm-up shelter, including a man-lift.

Continued on page 2

New chair inducted at Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce chair’s luncheon

the Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation Interpretive Centre at the Ridge, located south of Battleford.

Outgoing chair Glenda Rye handed over the title to incoming chair Ashlee Babiy as part of the induction ceremony.

event took place at

Battleford Mayor Ames

Leslie administered the oath of office to Babiy during the event.

Babiy works as the banking centre leader for personal and business banking with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) in North Battleford.

She said she is looking forward to taking on her new

role with the chamber.

“I’m excited,” Babiy said. “I have big shoes to fill with Glenda as the outgoing chair.

She’s done a great job of really rallying the business community, being a big advocate for growth. I hope I can do much of the same.”

For her goals ahead, Babiy said she is looking forward

to connecting with as many people as possible within the chamber membership and “really making sure that their voices are heard, and advocating for them.”

Outgoing chair Rye said it has been a busy past year for the chamber.

“I’m really excited that we

Continued on page 3

People at the grand opening gather outside for a group shot in front of the new Hamlin Grain Elevator Shelter at the Grand Opening on Jan 29 built by the Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club. | Photo by Averil Hall/Freelance Photographer

Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club opens grain elevator shelter

Continued from page 1

“That was a collection that I had [artifacts] from,” he said.

The shelter features wood seating, a wood stove and solar lights.

Also during the event, the Battlefords Hotels Association made a donation of $10,000 to the Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club for the club’s warming shelters and trails.

The club has 18 warm-up shelters in total.

During the outing, snowmobilers also stopped at the Sky-Tech Terminal warmup shelter, located off Trail 101-B, not far from the North Battleford airport.

Bill Halewich, one of the owners of Sky-Tech Equipment in North Battleford, said the theme for the Sky-Tech Terminal shelter is airplanes.

“There’s [model] airplanes hanging inside it,” he said. “And it’s shaped a little bit based off of the wings of a plane. It kind of has a winged look from the front.”

Sky-Tech Equipment donated $10,000 to the project, which was built by volunteers.

“It’s definitely a great project,” Halewich said. “The Trail Breakers are doing an excellent job promoting and making some nice activities and nice warm-up shelters, making it safe on the trails.”

The next project the Trail Breakers are working on is a warm-up shelter called Maude’s House.

Maude’s House is sponsored by Chris Odishaw in memory of his grandmother who always dreamed of a brick building with her name on it.

The bricks come from the old Saskatchewan Hospital.

Dale Charabin stands on the elevator shaft he designed for inside the new Hamlin Grain Elevator Shelter. | Photos by Averil Hall/Freelance Photographer

Hotel Association present a $10,000 cheque to Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club for the Hamlin Grain Elevator Shelter.

Sky-Tech Terminal Shelter with a side-by-side out front.

The Hamlin Grain Elevator Shelter is full of snowmobilers during the grand opening. Lunch was given before they left for the trails.

Inside the Sky-Tech Shelter. It has the theme of an airport.

Dad and Me event highlights family time

By Averil Hall

Freelance Reporter/Photographer

Kent Woodworth, the night’s activity coordinator, along with several volunteers, hosted a Dad and Me event at the NationWest Field House on Jan. 27. The event was a joint effort between KidsFirst and the Battlefords Early Years Family Resource Centre.

Woodworth said the event is designed to encourage fathers to spend quality time with their young children while becoming familiar with community resources available in the Battlefords. It also provides an opportunity for dads to meet and connect with other fathers in the community, while giving moms a break for the evening.

The Dad and Me program has been offered in different forms for approximately 15 years. Organizers typically hold six or seven events each year, including activities planned around Father’s Day. Each event focuses on simple, hands-on activities that allow parents and children to interact in a relaxed setting.

Over the years, events have taken place in various locations throughout the city, including downtown, Finlayson Island, and the fire hall. Woodworth said organizers regularly ask fathers for feedback to help decide what activities and locations they would like to see in future events.

Families interested in learning more about Dad and Me programs or other community activities can find information on the KidsFirst Battlefords and Battlefords Early Years Family Resource Centre Facebook pages. At the end of the evening, each child was able to select a book to take home and keep.

New chair inducted at Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce chair’s luncheon

Continued from page 1 were able to ask the City [of North Battleford] to review the commercial tax rate,” she said. “I believe that the results of that study will be coming out in a few months here.”

Another project the chamber has been involved with has been applying for the HGTV channel’s Hometown Takeover Canada.

A number of Battlefords organizations worked on the submission.

“We should find out within a month or two if we were successful,” Rye said.

Rye noted it has been a good past year for the Battlefords business community.

“I feel like our business community is super strong,” she said. “We all support one another. There’s more than enough work here for everybody, and we continue to grow. That’s a good thing. It’s good for families and everyone.”

The guest speaker for the event was Christine Marie, CEO and founder of Saskatoon-based Awasis Boutique, an Indigenous-inspired fashion store that creates clothing for babies, children and adults.

She shared her journey and successes as a young Indigenous entrepreneur.

Marie found a need in the marketplace and decided to

pursue her dream.

“There’s a market for this if you tap into it,” she said.

“I did my market research and found out that nobody was offering these products.”

recognize and celebrate Indigenous

Marie’s goal with her project was to

culture, promote economic reconciliation, and give back to the community.

Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie, left, with Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce incoming chair Ashlee Babiy. | Photos by Angela Brown

Christine Marie is CEO and founder of Saskatoon-based Awasis Boutique.

Oliver Edelinski, 15 months, plays blocks with his father, Christian Edelinski from Serbia.

| Photos by Averil Hall/Freelance Photographer

Thomas Miswaggon plays with his son, Morgan Miswaggon-Star.

Eri-Ife Akinfabiyi – peeks out of the play tunnel.

Oscar Sopka having fun playing soccer.

Paxton Nicotine age 18 months gets a help with balancing from her dad, TJ Nicotine .

May Richardson, 3 years old, shows off how she can do somersaults.

You know you grew up in Battleford if you remember...

The Road Not Taken

By Daryl Jones

Saskatchewan Herald Editor P. G. Laurie referred to it as the largest meeting in the history of Battleford as residents turned out in full force to vote on whether to remain on the current town site or to be seduced by offers from the CPR’s Saskatchewan Land Valley Company to relocate across the river to an as yet unnamed community through which the newly announced railroad would run.

The meeting, which began on the evening of March 30, 1905, in Latimer’s Hall nearly caused the floor to collapse as the turnout exceeded the floor’s weight capacity and Albert Champagne, the current owner of the Albion Hotel, volunteered the spacious ballroom on his premises to continue the proceedings.

Early in 1905, it was announced, much to the chagrin of Battleford residents and merchants, that the long-anticipated rail line would run on the north side of the North Saskatchewan River rather than through Battleford. The CPR was awarded a parcel of land north of the river and a representative of its land management organization, Mr. L. O. Kirby promptly arrived to extol to Battleford’s citizenry the advantages of purchasing lots and relocating to the site of the new planned community. Battleford residents were offered the first choice of surveyed lots at a bargain price of $40 for a 25-foot lot, the actual value of which, according to Mr. Kirby, would range between $150 and $400, depending on location. A caveat to the offer stated each lot must have a building constructed within a year of a value not less than $800.

Following Mr. Kirby’s presentation, several Battleford residents took the floor to offer their opinions and, while some expressed enthusiasm to move across the river, the majority of speakers spoke passionately in favour of remaining with the existing town site. Senator Benjamin Prince proposed a resolution that Battleford’s residents would be farther ahead remaining where they were rather than uprooting and moving across a river for the second time in less than 20 years. The motion was seconded by Thomas Dewan and the vote, by a large margin, supported maintaining the status quo.

Check out the “You know you grew up in Battleford if you remember...” page on Facebook for more Battleford and area history. This article first appeared in the 2025 Fred Light Museum fund-raising calendar. The 2026 calendar is available from the Museum, Battleford Boutique, Battleford Town Hall or by contacting Donna at thelighthouse@sasktel.net.

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North Battleford CSOs seek information after injured dog found in garbage bin

By SaskToday staff

NORTH BATTLEFORD — The community safety officers (CSOs) are asking for the public’s help after an injured dog was found abandoned in a garbage bin in North Battleford, according to the city.

On Feb. 2, North Battleford CSOs were dispatched at 4:45 p.m. to a business at 1111100th Street to a report of a small dog found by staff in a red outdoor garbage bin behind the property.

The dog was reported to be injured and estimated at three to six months old.

CSOs transported the puppy for treatment at a local vet clinic, where staff identified its stomach laceration as a hernia. CSOs advise the puppy is malnourished and continues to be in the care a veterinarian.

Community Safety Officers are requesting anyone with information about the person(s) who disposed of the animal in the garbage bin, or those who may have witnessed this event, to provide details to CSOs at 306-445-1775.

Valentine’s Dance planned for the Battlefords

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORDS — Residents in the Battlefords area will have an opportunity to enjoy a night out on Valentine’s Day with a Valentine’s Dance.

The event will be held Feb. 14 at 8:30 p.m. at the Battlefords Community Players Clubhouse, located at 102 26th St. in Battleford.

Jeff Arndt is a member of the band Jackfish Reunion, which will be performing during the evening.

He said he is a friend of Battlefords Community Players executive producer Donna Challis.

pleasing tunes.”

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“She approached me about doing a dance at the club because it’s not just a theatre,” Arndt said. “It’s also for community events and for concerts. We would just like to have this [dance] as a community event to raise our profile in the community and do some community building by having people come in and have a good time, have a dance with a live band.”

Jackfish Reunion plays a variety of songs, ranging from folk to country to bar songs, ballads and “crowd

The set list will be mostly cover tunes, with some original songs mixed in as well.

Arndt and fellow band member Doug Sylvester are both songwriters. Arndt is also the music and worship leader at Zion Lutheran Church in North Battleford.

Jackfish Reunion has been busy lately. The band will also be performing during the upcoming TeleMiracle, which takes place from Feb. 28 to March 1.

“Jackfish Reunion will be playing a half-hour set, which was pre-taped and

will be featured on TeleMiracle on the overnight program,” Arndt said. Looking ahead, he is encouraging people to come out to the Valentine’s Dance and enjoy the evening.

“Just come out with your friends or if you have a date, this would be a good time to have a nice time on Valentine’s Day, watching some live music and shaking a leg, and being part of a dance on Valentine’s Day,” Arndt said.

Tickets are available at the door or in advance through Battlefords Community Players.

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Albion Hotel Photo circa 1905 courtesy Light Family Archives.

Shown is a photo of the dog that was found. | Photo submitted by City of North Battleford

Shown are, left to right, Jeff Arndt, Joe Khorisky, and Doug Sylvester in Jackfish Reunion. | Photo courtesy of Jeff Arndt

Red Pheasant Cree Nation opens new community pantry

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

RED PHEASANT CREE

NATION — Red Pheasant

Cree Nation now has a Community Pantry open to help community members in need.

The site will be open Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Red Pheasant Community Pantry is a new branch of the First Nation’s Health Centre and operates on a referral basis.

Clients need to provide proof of residency and a treaty or health number, and financial statements may be required.

The site is located at the Old Store on Red Pheasant Cree Nation.

Chief Cody Benson said he is excited about the project.

“It’s to look after our own

[members] within our community,” he said. “We’re having a lot of members utilizing the food bank in North Battleford [at the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre]. So we just thought we would create our own [pantry] within our own community, and be able to give that option to our members that come into hardship and need a little bit of extra help to make it through the month.”

Benson said the service will be discreet for those who use it.

“They’ll be able to go in and get help, and there will be no judgment on anybody that utilizes it,” he said.

People will be able to access basic necessities such as canned goods, rice, peanut butter, bread and milk.

Benson said people were often asking for rides to the

Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre food bank in North Battleford, so this resource now gives them the option to use a food banktype service closer to home.

He noted that the First Nation will also accept donations for the Community Pantry.

“We will take donations for sure,” Benson said.

He said he is thrilled the project has moved ahead.

“It’s giving back to the community members that need it,” Benson said. “It’s going to continue to grow throughout the years. Everybody goes through hard times. It’s just another way of helping our community members to make it through when times get tough.”

Catholic Family Services of the Battlefords looks for new board members

By SaskToday staff NORTH BATTLEFORD

— Catholic Family Services of the Battlefords (CFS Battlefords) has put the call out for new members of its board of directors.

The organization serves the Battlefords and northwest Saskatchewan.

People can apply to volunteer as a board member through the organization’s website.

As a board member, participants will focus on strategy, not operations. Board members will not be responsible for fundraising or day-to-day activities. Instead, they will focus on governance, accord-

ing to the release.

Board meetings usually take place over the lunch hour and are efficiently run, according to the organization.

CFS Battlefords says becoming a board member is a good opportunity for people to grow personally and professionally. Members can expand their leadership skills, increase their understanding of non-profit governance, and develop their professional network.

As a board member, individuals will help oversee the organization’s long-term strategic plan.

They will also provide financial oversight for CFS Battlefords.

FEBRUARY AT THE CLUB

Our Members are sweet as candy!

Please note, we will be CLOSED Saturday, February 14th & Monday, February 16th for Family Day.

Non-School Days Programming: WE ARE OPEN ON THE FEBRUARY BREAK NON-SCHOOL DAYS! Our Non-School Days Program will run Tuesday, February 17 through Friday, February 20 at our Main Site (1301–104th Street) from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Children & youth can enjoy 4 full days of crafts, games, activities, and fun! Breakfast, lunch, and a snack are provided at no cost. Participants must have a valid 2026 Membership Form. Children 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 continue at BCS (serving BCS and St. Vital students), Bready, EMBM, and Holy Family, with the addition of a new Before School Program at Holy Family. Programs operate Monday to Friday on school days, offering care from 7:30–8:30 a.m. before school and after school from class dismissal until 5:30 p.m. Children participate in outdoor play, hands-on activities, games, experiments, and enjoy nutritious snacks in a safe and welcoming environment!

Main Site Drop-in Program: Our Main Site Drop-In Program, located at 1301–104th Street, is open six days a week for children and youth ages 5–14 and is free with a completed 2026 Membership Form. Program hours (excluding stat holidays) are Monday to Friday from 3:30–8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 1:00–4:00 p.m. Contact our office for early dismissal and PD Day details. Participants enjoy outdoor play, crafts, hands-on activities, science experiments, nutritious snacks, meals, and more in a safe and welcoming environment designed for fun and connection!

*For more information on our programs and how to register, visit our website at www.bgcbattlefords.ca

February dates to remember:

• Sunday, February 1: Hockey Program.

• Wednesday, February 4: Last Kid Food Nation session.

• Saturday, February 7: IFCU Saturday Program: Groundhog Clues & Weather News!

• Sunday, February 8: Last hockey session.

• Wednesday, February 11: Early Dismissal Day (programming begins at class dismissal).

◊ For Living Sky School Division elementary schools, please send lunch for your child.

◊ Afternoon snacks will continue to be provided.

• Saturday, February 14: IFCU Saturday Program CLOSED. Have a Heart Day & Valentine’s Day.

• Monday, February 16: Happy Family Day! Office & all programming CLOSED.

• Tuesday, February 17: WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Days Program: Kindness Counts.

• Wednesday, February 18: WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Days Program: Hockey Day at the Club.

• Thursday, February 19: WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Days Program: Fun With Our Feathered Friends.

• Friday, February 20: WE ARE OPEN! Non-School Days Program: Monsters on the Move.

• Saturday, February 21: IFCU Saturday Program: Our Members are Pawsome!

• Wednesday, February 25: Pink Shirt Day! (We encourage everyone to wear your pink shirts on this day in support of this global anti-bullying movement.)

• Saturday, February 28: IFCU Saturday Program: It’s a Beary Good Day!

so would

an introduction prior to adoption. He’s very smart and alert, protective of people he trusts, and energetically playful. Meet Bart!

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

The Red Pheasant Community Pantry is open Mondays and Wednesdays. | Red Pheasant Health Clinic Facebook

Board members will also promote the mission of CFS

Battlefords and “advocate for the needs of the community.”

Photo by Dylan Gillis on Unsplash

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BATTLEFORD’S BUSINESSES

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BUSINESSES BATTLEFORDS

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Do you love a Battlefords company for its welcoming atmosphere, high-quality products, exemplary after-sales service or eco-responsible values? On top of being a loyal customer, you can help the business thrive by:

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• Writing a positive testimonial online through Google reviews

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• Writing a glowing testimonial and letting the business know they can use it in their ad campaigns

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• Commenting on and sharing the business’s social media posts

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• Recommending the businesses to family, friends and col-

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Why small business is big in Canada

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leagues who might be interested in their products or services

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• Gifting their products or gift certificates on various occasions, such as for Christmas, birthdays, employee rewards and hostess gifts

Small business is the backbone of the Canadian economy. These enterprises, which include many local shops and contractors, drive innovation, create jobs and foster economic growth. Here are seven facts highlighting the importance of Canadian small businesses:

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1. About 98 per cent of all businesses in Canada have fewer than 100 employees, making small businesses a dominant force in the entrepreneurial landscape.

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7. Small businesses are often a breeding ground for innovation, with more than 41 per cent of all private-sector investments in research and development made by SMEs. Together, these figures highlight just how deeply small businesses are woven into Canada’s economic fabric. From main streets to rural communities, they provide jobs, support innovation and help keep local economies resilient, reinforcing their importance not only nationally, but in communities across the country.

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Promoting the local businesses you frequent gives hard-working, passionate people the boost they need to succeed while stimulating your region’s economy. It isn’t hard to showcase your favourite local business, such as a hair salon, restaurant, clothing boutique, dental clinic, real estate agency or

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2. More than 80 per cent of the private sector workforce is employed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), demonstrating the critical role of small businesses in job creation and employment opportunities.

3. Small businesses in Canada contribute about 53 per cent to the country’s GDP, underscoring their substantial economic impact.

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4. Small businesses account for about 43 per cent of all goods and services exported by Canadian businesses, showcasing their contribution to international trade.

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5. Small businesses are active in various sectors, with the highest concentration in professional, scientific and technical services, retail trade and construction.

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repair shop.

6. Small businesses play a vital role in rural communities, accounting for 26.5 per cent of total employment in rural areas.

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USINESSES ATTLEFORDS

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Howbuyinglocal affects theeconomy

businessin your neighbourhood doubles its salesdue to strong local support.

•Expandservices. The more moneya smallbusiness makes, themorelikely it’ll expand its productand serviceofferings anddelve into newmarkets.For instance, your favourite localbrand may setits sightsonopening a newlocationina nearby town

•Improve thejob market. When smallbusinessesgrow, they require more employees.A prospering local business can help createjobs in your area

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•Upliftother localbusinesses. Smallbusinessesoften look to local suppliers to supporttheir growth and help each otherprosper

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•Increasesocialinvolvement Localbusinesses areactiveincharitable causes. Forexample, thriving smallbusinesses oftengiveback to their communitiesbydonating to localorganizations

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•R ea pt ax be ne fit s. Smallbusinessesthat make more moneyalso paymoretaxes.This meansthatmoremoney is going back into your local government to help with infrastructureand social initiatives

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Buying localisaneasy waytoinvest in your community.It’sa simple move that beneﬁtsyou as well.

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5 reasons family businesses have a competitive edge

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3. STRONG CULTURE AND VALUES

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Family businesses have a unique charm and a strong foundation that often give them an edge. Built on relationships, shared values and long-term commitment, these locally owned enterprises play an important role in the Battlefords’ business community. Here are five reasons why supporting a family business makes a difference:

Family values frequently shape how these businesses operate, guiding decisions with integrity and social responsibility. Customers often connect with that sense of purpose, building loyalty to businesses that care about more than just the bottom line.

4. STABILITY AND CONTINUITY

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1. LONG-TERM VISION

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Because ownership and leadership are planned with the future in mind, family businesses are well positioned to transition smoothly from one generation to the next. This continuity helps ensure consistent quality, service and customer relationships over time.

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5. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

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Family businesses are often driven by a desire to build something lasting for future generations. This long-term perspective encourages careful planning and sustainable growth, helping them weather economic ups and downs and remain dependable fixtures in the community.

2. TRUST AND LOYALTY

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Many family businesses are deeply rooted in the Battlefords and actively contribute to local events, organizations and initiatives. Their success is closely tied to the well-being of the community, creating a cycle of mutual support and trust.

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Strong personal relationships are at the heart of many family-run businesses. That sense of trust often extends beyond the family itself, with employees treated as valued members of the team. The result is higher morale, lower turnover and a consistent level of service customers can rely on.

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By choosing to shop local and support family-run businesses, residents help strengthen the local economy and ensure these enterprises continue to thrive as part of the Battlefords’ business landscape.

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Education focus of City of North Battleford Archives Week display

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

— A look back at the roots of education will be the focus of this year’s City of North Battleford Historic Archives’ Archives Week display.

The exhibit will be featured at the Discovery Co-op Territorial Mall from Feb. 5 to 7, running daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors will be able to learn about early education in North Battleford and view a display highlighting schools, classrooms and sto-

ries from the City of North Battleford archives collection.

“Archives Week is a province-wide initiative,” said city archivist Jessica Addo. “It highlights the importance of the archives in preserving local history. It’s about making historical records and photographs accessible to the public, and helping people connect to the past.” Addo said education is always an important focus for the community, and she expects strong interest in the display.

“We decided to go with

education because we know that education is something almost everyone can relate to, and schools have always been central to community life,” she said. “[The exhibit] is going to show some of the earliest schools, the earliest classrooms. And it will be historical photographs. We have archival documents and stories.”

The display will give visitors a chance to see what learning environments looked like in the past and how education evolved over the years.

“We’re focusing more on

how these schools came into being — the year they were built, and the teachers and all that,” Addo said. “The first school that was ever built in North Battleford was King Street School. It was built in 1907. We’re going to look at King Street School and other early schools that were built in North Battleford at that time.”

She said the exhibit is expected to appeal to people of all ages.

“The younger generation can also come to see how education used to look like,” Addo said.

Dog euthanized after being caught in City of North Battleford coyote snare

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD

— Residents are concerned after an area farm dog was euthanized after being caught in a City of North Battleford snare used to trap coyotes at the city landfill.

The city has been trapping coyotes at the Waste Management Facility recently due to an increase in their numbers and to protect the public and staff, as coyotes have been more aggressive and in need of sustenance.

A post by a person on Facebook said their neighbour’s “kind and gentle dog was caught in [a] snare and they couldn’t save him.”

The post said farmers

around the dump have complained to city hall, saying that some of the snares are on the outside perimeter fence of the landfill.

The City of North Battleford said in an email to SaskToday that the traps were located on city property.

“The City of North Battleford is aware that a dog was discovered ensnared on the city’s property,” said Candace Toma, public and intergovernmental relations co-ordinator with the City of North Battleford, in a statement. “The dog was immediately transported by city staff to a local vet for treatment. When the vet notified the owner of the dog, the dog’s owner chose to request the vet euthanize the animal.

The City of North Battleford has covered the veterinary costs for the treatment of the animal.”

She said the fence around the Waste Management Facility is designed to be the perimeter indicator for the city’s property and is not designed to be impenetrable.

“It may serve to deter some animals and persons, but it will not stop every-

thing, especially with a rising level of snow which makes fencing easier to jump for animals like coyotes,” Toma said. “To improve this fence to the extent where it would be considered impossible to enter would come at a very high cost to taxpayers.”

She said trapping activities would continue until the coyote population is reduced enough to mitigate the risk

to customers and staff at the Waste Management Facility.

“It is estimated that it will take until Friday [Jan. 30] of this week given the continued numbers of coyotes which are being caught,” Toma said. “[The city] will provide an update to the public when traps are removed from city property.”

She noted the city has a permit to conduct trapping, issued by the provincial government, and, as required, property owners within a mandated radius surrounding the city’s property were notified that trapping would take place.

“This is to ensure that property owners could contain their personal animals to their respective properties, so they would not be ‘at large’ and would not be subject to incidental contact with snares set on city

property,” Toma said. “In response to concerns of local property owners, the city ceased trapping activities for five weekdays to extend the opportunity for property owners to further protect their personal animals. Trapping resumed earlier this week [the week of Jan. 26] following the brief cessation, in accordance with the provincial permit.”

The City of North Battleford provided an update on the snares on Jan. 30.

“The City of North Battleford has issued an update regarding the removal of power snares (traps) on the Waste Management Facility property,” the city said in a statement. “Traps were removed today, January 30, after a total of 20 coyotes were caught, thereby reducing the risk to the general public and to landfill staff.”

Shown is a historical photo of King Street School in North Battleford. | Photo submitted by City of North Battleford Historic Archives Committee

Photo by Allison Haskell

Connecting Voices. Building Business

2026 Is the Year All the Stars Have to Align

By:

Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce 2026 has brought with it a rare alignment of the stars. Government, business and labour leaders across Canada agree on what our country needs economically and more unbelievably, so does public opinion.

An Ipsos poll in December found that three-quarters of Canadians support building new pipelines to ports in British Columbia and Eastern Canada to diversify export markets. A similar 71% said Canada’s approval processes for large projects take too long and need reform. In Quebec, 67% of Canadians backed the Marinvest LNG project to export natural gas to Europe. This alignment matters because, for years, Canada’s economic framework — the rules, incentives, and signals embedded in public policy — has been pulling investment and talent in a different direction. That framework is no longer fit for purpose. It has created friction rather than momentum, uncertainty rather than confidence, and hesitation rather than openness. The challenge now is whether we can pivot quickly enough to meet the moment. So, will we follow the stars or let this opportunity slip away?

The fall federal budget laid some promising groundwork, detailing practical steps to support Canada’s competitiveness and longterm growth, including improving infrastructure, strengthening trade capacity, and investing in strategic sectors that drive jobs, like defence, steel, forestry and trade diversification infrastructure. These budgetary policy decisions matter to the mood of investors and businesses who have been sidelined or spooked since disruption musings began in late 2024. But favourable conditions alone don’t guarantee results unless paired with smart public policy.

On paper, the economy is growing. Real-time analysis from our Business Data Lab’s GDP now casting tool shows Canada growing between 2–3% in Q1. In practice, that growth is uneven. Large firms with scale and capital buffers are better positioned to adapt, while small and medium-sized businesses remain cautious, delaying hiring and investment as costs stay high and demand uncertain. Those businesses are not changing their trade patterns quickly, hoping this will all blow over. In communities where economic opportunity depends on a limited number of employers, that hesitation shows up as layoffs, pay freezes, and stalled community growth.

Capital moves fast globally, and other jurisdictions are working aggressively to attract it. Canadian businesses can’t afford to hesitate. Without the economic momentum to restore consumer and business confidence, the gap between us and peer countries will only grow.

For decades, our economy has sent clear signals about where to apply smart policy. Reducing red tape and reviewing our tax competitiveness to encourage investment and innovation. Better trade and transportation infrastructure to assist Canadian producers in efficiently reaching global markets. Aligning immigration, skills training, and regional workforce strategies to help employers fill critical gaps that domestic talent won’t.

When companies grow, they hire more workers, pay better, and invest in their communities, which supports families and local services and builds stronger neighbourhoods. Business success is meaningful only if it improves lives.

Addressing these signals determine whether Canada will deliver steady growth, good jobs, and economic optimism at a time when many feel stretched. Economic prosperity and community well-being go hand in hand, and public policy that strengthens one and not the other misses the mark.

The unifying cause we see today across governments, sectors, and communities is a chance for Canada to shore up an economy that has all the ingredients for success, but Parliament still has yet to follow key aspects of the recipe. We cannot again let political gamesmanship on any side of the aisle get in the way of the urgent task at hand. Voters are smart and they will not reward obstinacy in a crisis.

The business community isn’t going to sit idle during this process and will push governments by proposing tangible strategies that are economically driven, rather than public sector-directed like the current policy trajectory. We recognize there’s reasonable interventions to be made, but we cannot let public policy become a matter of picking winners and losers again. Moments like the one 2026 is presenting us are easy to miss and hard to recreate. Looking ahead at the fiscal cycle, there are clear opportunities for implementing that smart public policy I mentioned. The next and most obvious is the newly timed federal Spring Economic Statement. Government should remember that business leaders and Canadians have only so much patience and are expecting tangible plans with clear and measurable deliverables.

We cannot afford to lose the sense of urgency that helped galvanize public sentiment in 2025. As Parliament returns, our politicians should remind themselves of that.

Building Codes Are Undermining the Promise of Modular Housing

By: Olha Sotska, Policy Advisor, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Hopeful Canadian homebuyers waiting for housing affordability to make a comeback will continue to have their optimism and stamina tested as the likelihood of closing Canada’s housing gap further deteriorates. To restore affordability to pre-pandemic levels, we need to double the pace of housing starts and reach 430,000 to 480,000 per year, which would completely buck the trend of consistent decline since September 2025

The numbers are grim, which is why many in the residential construction sector are hedging their bets on the promise of innovative methods. From modular homes produced in factories and assembled on site to cutting-edge 3D printing, several new approaches have emerged to help build safe, affordable, and comfortable homes up to 30- to 50-per-cent faster than traditional construction times. The next step should be as obvious as scaling these approaches, and yet the path forward isn’t that simple.

To build a modular house, a company must apply for a building permit from the municipality, a process requiring them to demonstrate that the project meets the technical requirements of the building code as well as other “applicable laws,” such as a municipal bylaw. If their project does not meet these requirements, the permit is not granted and no shovels go in the ground. It’s even worse for a builder operating a single facility but aspiring to serve customers nationwide as they are forced to untangle a mess of different provincial, territorial, and municipal code interpretations. While the National Building Code of Canada and compliance standards provide a core trajectory, provinces and territories also enact their own building codes with unique requirements. A modular building unit approved in one province may face different criteria in another, requiring a redesign, re-testing, and additional documentation. Layer municipal bylaws on top of provincial and territorial codes and the modular industry, as well as the wider residential construction industry, ends up navigating a maze of dozens of overlapping and sometimes contradictory regulations. Story continues in right column

Continued from story below left.

This approach to regulation creates uncertainty, slows down operations, increases costs, and limits product availability. Even minor discrepancies can put significant demands on time and investment. To make matters worse, as builders adjust their processes to suit whatever province and municipality they’re in, another update to building codes may well be announced.

In Canada, National Model Codes operate in fiveyear update cycles. Yet, in practice, they are subject to a barrage of post-publication revisions and errata packages—both ways to make minor off-cycle adjustments to the code. Since 2005, Canada’s building, fire, plumbing, and energy codes have undergone multiple editions and revisions. Rather than four scheduled updates over 20 years, there have been nine major revisions, including a staggering roughly 3,500 technical changes throughout almost 10,000 pages of code updates and revisions.

Provincial and territorial governments implement and modify these model codes at their own pace, meaning one jurisdiction might adopt a new iteration while another is still operating under an older version. The volume, frequency, and scattered nature of these changes forces builders to constantly review their projects to ensure compliance.

This regulatory environment results in builders shouldering significant administrative burden; companies are preoccupied with tracking and responding to code changes rather than focusing on scaling production and delivering the housing Canadians desperately need. Business confidence also takes a hit as a lack of regulatory certainty means risk for industry stakeholders working with long planning and investment horizons, which in turn discourages investment. When capital pulls back, housing delivery slows.

Canada’s residential construction sector can’t solve the housing crisis with innovative new technologies like modular housing while operating in a fragmented, constantly shifting regulatory environment. It’s time to stop the rule changing roller-coaster and give builders the certainty they need. Consistent nationwide standards that follow a predictable, regular schedule for updates will allow the residential construction sector to innovate and scale with confidence and finally build the affordable houses hopeful home buyers are waiting for.

Living Sky School Division receives provincial grant supporting suicide prevention

By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter

In a Jan. 14 media release, the Government of Saskatchewan announced it awarded 53 grants to support suicide prevention initiatives across the province as part of Pillars For Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan Funding was announced as clos to $484,000. Living Sky School Division was once such beneficiary receiving $10,000

Jenna Smith, the division’s Mental Health Capacity Building Coordinator, responded to the News Optimist, “These funds will provide Mental Health First Aid Facilitator Training to four staff across the division offered through Opening Minds, an initiative of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.”

“Once all facilitators have completed their training, they are then able to support communities by providing that training to students, staff and eventually families and community members at large.”

Living Sky School Division acknowledges that more will be shared with families about these upcoming opportunities as the roll out plan is finalized – their hope is that with the four facilitators serving the division most schools/communities they serve will have the opportunity to benefit.”

The government releases stated, “Announced in Sep-

tember 2025, the Suicide Prevention Grant Program encourages community partners to develop creative ways to support suicide prevention, with a focus on developing leadership, reducing risks of suicide, increasing awareness of resources, reducing stigma and promoting healthy lifestyles. “

“I am thrilled with the tremendous response from groups across the province to the Suicide Prevention Grant Program,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said.

“Suicide is a serious issue that affects many families and communities. Our government is committed to addressing self-harm and suicide by continuing our collaborative work with partners to support the mental health of Saskatchewan residents.”

Applications were accepted from groups such as community-based organizations, Indigenous organizations, school divisions and municipalities.

“The funds will directly support our Healthy Minds, Healthy Communities initiative which offers Mental Health First Aid and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training to participants. The workshops are designed to promote mental wellness, reduce stigma and equip parents, youth, educators and coaches with practical tools to support mental health and prevent suicide.”

Released in 2020, Pillars

for Life serves as a guide for government and partners to improve and expand suicide prevention efforts in the province. In addition to the Suicide Prevention Grant Program, several key provincial suicide prevention initiatives include:

Funding the community-led Roots of Hope Suicide Prevention initiative in five northern Saskatchewan communities;

Funding a provincial rapid access suicide loss support program through Family Service Saskatchewan, which supports the immediate psychological needs of families and friends of people who have died by suicide or survived with significant injury or trauma;

Support of a family engagement group to gather feedback from families who have experienced suicide loss;

Support for suicide prevention public awareness campaigns to inform individuals that help is available for people thinking of, or affected by, suicide; and Promotion of the national Suicide Crisis Helpline, 9-8-8.

This year, Saskatchewan is investing a record $624 million in mental health and addictions, which includes $2.25 million specifically for suicide prevention initiatives.

For a list of groups receiving a Suicide Prevention Grant, visit: saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention-grant.

To learn about resources available on suicide prevention and mental health, visit: saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention.

Snowmobiles and fishers keep village entertained

Several snowmobiles are parked outside the Vawn Eatery and Bar. Temperatures don’t seem to be a problem with the extremely good clothing that you wear when out snowmobiling. | Photo by Trudy Janssens

By Trudy Janssens Community Correspondent

Several people have been asking me if there’s something wrong, because they haven’t seen the Meota News for a while. Some assumed we had gone south, since a lot of Meota residents are snowbirds. Truth be told, there hasn’t been much local news. There is lots of activity on the lake with several ice fishing shacks peppered just offshore. Of course, there are several people enjoying their snow machines. As for the rest of us, we find ways to keep busy indoors. I’ve taken up oil painting with the help of a gifted local art teacher. My husband has been tinkering with converting a candlelier into a chandelier. Puzzles eat up lots of time and spending time with friends makes the short days pass very quickly.

By the time this article is in print, the Do Drop In will have had its monthly commu-

nity lunch. It is held the first Wednesday of the month. They are doing their best to raise funds to fix their front sidewalk to make it wheelchair accessible.

Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail have had a contractor in to put all the chair rail wainscoting in to complete the interior paint job. They are hoping to attract several rentals in the upcoming year to help pay for renovations. There are plans to put a new roof on their small boat house and renovations do not come cheap these days.

If you want information on rentals, you can contact Trudy (the commodore) at 306-374-0843 and leave a message.

Meota is calling for nominations for village councillor. Nominations will be accepted at the village office during regular business hours until Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. Election day to be announced soon.

On Feb. 15, the Meota United Anglican Church will be having an annual

general meeting following the service. It’s an important time to be involved because the church is making major decisions on its ongoing ministry in Meota. Feb. 17 is Shrove Tuesday and the congregation will be hosting a pancake supper at the Meota Cafe starting at 4:30 p.m. All proceeds will go to the Meota day care.

The Meota Morning Side Early Learning Centre is offering prepackaged soup from the Mitchell’s Soup Company. Mary Sherry’s monthly newsletter includes the whole catalogue of soups available and you can order them online. I did notice you can call Brieanne at 306-317-6991 to place an order if online ordering is not your style.

The Meota Library is having a Kids’ Club every Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon. There will be storytelling, crafts, colouring, puzzles and toys. Drinks and snacks provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

CHUCKLES

Where do snowmen & snowwomen dance?

The Snow Ball.

If you spell the words “absolutely nothing” backwards, you get “gnihton yletulosba” Which ironically means absolutely nothing.

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

A set of golf clubs walks into a bar. “What’ll you have?”

He went to see “Closed For The Winter.”

“Nothing for me, I’m the driver!”

Never make Snow Angels in a Dog Park.

I noticed we use a lot of French words regularly. Such as Hors d’oeuvres And that’s just for starters! I traced my family tree. It mostly grows nuts!

Never make Snow Angels in a Dog Park.

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

I once dated a girl with a twin and people always asked me how I could tell them apart. It was simple, Alison painted her nails red and Bob had a beard!

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

By Kylie Mak

The North Battleford Elks made a donation for $1,000 to the Western Development Museum in North Battleford. The donation was towards purchasing battery desulfater chargers

photo shows, from left to right, Bruce Dalshaug, Bill Rayner, manager Sharaine Jones, Mark Danczak and Ken McKay.

Elks donate to Citizens on Patrol and Twin Rivers

Sandra Long honoured for long service to St. John’s Church

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

Borden Friendship Club held their monthly potluck supper Jan. 29 in their club room with 40 in attendance.

President Sandi Long welcomed everyone and told a few jokes. Jean Brooke gave the blessing. The room and tables were decorated in a Valentine’s theme. January birthday celebrants Karen Kerr, Lorraine Olinyk and Ron Tumback were on hand to blow out the candles on the large decorated chocolate cake while Happy Birthday was sung. Ruben Rempel introduced

the entertainment for the evening. Original Covers includes Bill and Valerie Hodge from Saskatoon and Gerald Wiebe from Radisson. Bill played keyboard, Valerie castanets and Gerald guitar with all three singing together or each singing a few solos.

The next potluck supper will be Feb. 26 in the Club Room with Terry Pugh entertaining. The Friendship Club business meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 2 p.m. in the Club Room and members are encouraged to attend.

After the service on Sunday morning, St. John’s An-

glican Church held its annual vestry meeting, with Rev. Carr conducting the meeting and Sharon Assman the secretary. Treasurer Sandra Long has resigned and the duties of treasurer will be taken over by Jean Brooke as of Jan. 1. Sandra was presented with a gift for her longtime service to the church by Brenda Tumbach. The meaning of the wall hanging of a green leaf was explained. Brenda Tumbach gave the report on the manse, which is rented out. Repairs have been completed, but more need to be done. Ron Tumbach reported on the church repairs and grounds. He said trees have been removed and the outdoor nativity scene was on display. The floor in the church is to be replaced this coming summer. There will be a Shrove Tuesday pancake supper in the Seniors’ Club Room in the Community Centre on Feb. 17 from 4:30 to 7 p.m., by donation, with proceeds going to the Borden Care Home. The ashes from the palm leaves burned that night will be used for the Ash Wednesday church service at 11 a.m. in the church, with everyone welcome to both events.

A gift from St John’s Church was presented to Sandra Long recognizing her years as treasurer, by Rev. Carr and Brenda Tumbach.

Borden Friendship Club January birthday celebrants are Karen Kerr, Ron Tumback and Lorraine Olinyk.

The North Battleford Elks made a $1,000 donation to the Battlefords Citizens of Patrol.The donation went towards their vehicle operating expenses. The photo includes, left to right, Mark Danczak, Doug Fehr, Ken McKay, Bruce Dalshaug, Dale Cain and Ron Dewald. | Photos submitted by North Battleford Elks

The North Battleford Elks made a donation recently for $1,000 to the Twin Rivers Curling Club.The donation was for their Jr. Curling program to purchase new brooms and sliders. The photo, from left to right, includes Dale Cain, Bruce Dalshaug, Ken McKay, Brandon Hall and Mark Danczak.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

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Owners: Trevorand AdriaWatts FuneralDirectors: TimScaife •Tessa Bell Apprentice FuneralDirectors: Larissa Wack Alyssa Kozinski •CristiTilbert

Apprentice Funeral Directors LarissaWack •TessaBell

PEEVER: James “Bryan” 1941–2026

James “Bryan” Peever passed away peacefully on Saturday January 24, 2026 in Saskatoon. Celebration of life to be held at a later date. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in care of SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME. Ph 306-244-5577

SALE BY TENDER Tax Title Property

The Rural Municipality of Meeting Lake No.466 offers for sale the following property under the provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act:

Portion of NW 14-48-12 W3, Ext. 33

(Approximately 1.87 Acres – Old Athelston School Site) In the Rural Municipality of Meeting Lake No. 466

Tender must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Property Tender”. Include full name, mailing address, phone number, purchase price tendered and a deposit equal to 10% of the purchase price tendered by certified cheque, money order or bank draft.

Submit to: RM of Meeting Lake No. 466, Box 26, Mayfair, Sask. S0M 1S0

Deadline for submission: March 18, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

Successful bidder must enter into a purchase agreement for sale and will have 30 days to provide the balance of cash to complete the purchase. The deposit will be forfeited if the successful bidder does not finalize the payment within the required time.

Highest, or any tender, not necessarily accepted.

Dated the 5th day of February, 2026.

Janelle Lavallee, Administrator

R.M. OF CUT KNIFE NO. 439 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The R.M. of Cut Knife No. 439 is currently seeking applications for a fulltime seasonal Equipment Operator/Operations Staff/Laborer. Duties may include, but may not be limited to, operation and regular maintenance of a grader, backhoe, wheel loader, tractor & mower and/ or rock picker, tandem truck & trailer and various implements and tools as may be required on a day to day basis. Previous experience with the operation of this equipment will be an asset to placement as will a Class 1A license.

The desired applicant will be able to work under the direction of the R.M. of Cut Knife Foreman and will show an aptitude toward understanding the scope of the Foreman’s responsibilities. There is potential for the proper applicant with this aptitude to earn a year- round placement with the municipality.

The Municipality offers a health and dental benefits plan and an employer matched pension.

Applications shall include a cover letter stating desired hourly wage range, a resume with employment references, a current driver’s abstract and any pertinent certifications held. Applications may be sent to:

R.M. of Cut Knife No. 439

P.O. Box 70 Cut Knife, Sask.

S0M 0N0

E-mail – rm439@sasktel.net

Fax # (306) 398-3016

Or delivered to 114 Broad Street Cut Knife, SK Applications will be received until 4:00 PM, February 18th, 2026. Only those applicants to be interviewed will be contacted. The municipality reserves the right to offer no placement if the desired applicant is not found.

For further information phone (306) 398-2353.

Job Summary

Executive Director

Battlefords Interval House –North Battleford, Saskatchewan Full-time, Permanent Salary: $84,656–$91,978 per year (40 hours/week), based on experience

Battlefords Interval House (BIH) provides safe shelter, support, and advocacy to individuals experiencing interpersonal violence and abuse in North Battleford and surrounding communities. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, BIH delivers trauma-informed, inclusive services focused on safety, healing, empowerment, and well-being.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides strategic and operational leadership across all programs, staff, and resources. This role ensures effective operations, sound financial management, and compliance with legislative, funding, and policy requirements. The position also provides vision and direction in program delivery, staff development, and community collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic and operational planning with the Board

• Oversee shelter programs, staff, and daily operations

• Manage budgets, reporting, and funding compliance

• Ensure compliance with policies and provincial legislation

• Build partnerships with funders, Indigenous organizations, and community agencies

• Represent BIH publicly and report regularly to the Board

Qualifications

• University Bachelor’s Degree

• 3-5 years of leadership experience, preferably in non-profit, administrative, or human services settings

• Strong skills in management, financial oversight, and team leadership

• Knowledge of non-profit governance and funding compliance an asset

• Experience working with Indigenous communities an asset

• Valid driver’s licence and ability to travel provincially

How to Apply

• Submit a cover letter and resume to: director@battlefordsintervalhouse.ca

(Attention: Elaine Blais, Board Chair)

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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 how!

KEYANOW CHILD AND FAMILY CENTRE INC.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Keyanow Child and Family Centre Inc. (KCFC) is seeking applications for highly motivated, resourceful, courteous and compassionate individuals to fill the following positions:

Family Services Unit (FS) – 1 Position

• Family Service Worker

1.On Call Casual Aide/Transporter

Family Services Unit (FS) – 1 Position

• On Call Casual Aide/Transporter

Family Enhancement Unit (FEU) – 2 positions

1.Adult Outreach Worker

CLOSING DATE: February 24, 2026. (Will remain open until positions are filled.)

2.Youth Outreach Worker

Atton’s

Lake

Regional Park Authority is accepting applications for the following positions.

Golf Course Greenskeeper – Full time seasonal placement available. Duties will include all manner of tasks necessary to the caretaking of a 9 hole grass greens golf course and all maintenance of equipment as well as a gas powered rental cart fleet. Ordering of supplies and overseeing of golf course maintenance staff will be required. Employment from mid-April to late October 2026.

Post Majority Support Services (PMSS) – 1 position

1.Junior Finance Officer (PMSS)

Please visit our website https://keyanowcfc.com – Career Opportunities for further information.

CLOSING DATE: May 17, 2025

Please visit our website https://keyanowcfc.com –Career Opportunities for further information.

Park Grounds Maintenance Staff and Golf Course Maintenance Staff – Full time adult placements are available from May/June through September for park grounds staff and from mid-April to late October for golf course maintenance staff. For Adult park maintenance staff, Liquid Domestic Waste Haulers permit would be an asset but not necessary for placement. ALRP will support for acquiring the permit. Safe operation and daily maintenance of grounds care equipment will be required.

Full time student placements are available in park maintenance from mid to late June through September 3, 2026.

Facilities Janitor – Full time placement available for self-motivated, detail-oriented individual for washroom cleaning. Employment can be expected from Mid-May through Labor Day and possibly later. This position can be a payroll placement or a contracted position depending on the successful applicant’s preference. Regardless of which, ALRP will supply all necessary equipment and materials.

All of the above positions require a current driver’s abstract to be submitted with the application.

Club House Manager – Full time seasonal placement available for a qualified individual of 19 years of age or greater. Employment from early May to October 12, 2026, depending on weather. Duties will include, but will not be limited to, prepping concession for season opening, acquiring concession and refreshment supplies, scheduling of staff and overseeing and training of staff as well as all manner of duties as are also expected of club house staff and cleaning and closing the building for the off season. the club house manager will be able to balance their shifts in the club house with their off-site responsibilities and day to day management requirements to meet full time hours and will be able to work with a board authority.

Club House Staff - Full and part time seasonal placements available for qualified individuals 19 years of age or greater from May or June 2026 to late August and late September, early October, 2026. Duration of employment will depend on placement and quality of weather. Duties include, but not limited to, telephone attendance, booking of tee times, checking in of golf patrons, meal preparation, service of food and beverages, equipment rental & sanitization, collecting of fees and recording of daily revenues.

Sask Liquor and Gaming SIRS and Safe Food Handling certification are required for all Club House placements and will be supported by Attons Lake Regional Park Authority for successful applicants.

Park Office Staff. – Placements are available for individuals with a pleasant demeaner who are able to take on unexpected tasks and to multitask. Full time positions from early May through September 1, 2026, also full time placements from mid to late June through mid-August. Duties to include, but not limited to: telephone attendance, booking of campsites on an online reservation system, checking in of guests, relaying requests and issues to maintenance staff, administration and board authority designate, booking of septic pump outs, collecting of fees and recording of daily revenues. Regular cleaning of the building and cleaning for season close will be expected of the park office staff. Casual positions for gate attendance for younger students may be considered.

For all positions listed:

All placements will be considered probationary for no less than 90 days and will require weekend & evening shifts. Actual hours and employment dates can be weather dependent and may be allotted in regards to individual suitability. Clean and appropriate apparel, while on duty, is expected of all staff. Strong communication skills, hospitable nature and ability to work well with others will be definite assets to placement. Staff campsites are available, on a 1st come 1st served basis for the duration of 2026 employment.

Apply by resume with cover letter. Indicate which position(s) you are applying for and whether part time or full time and desired wage range. State the date range you will be available to work. References will be required. All maintenance positions require a current driver’s abstract to be submitted with the application.

Forward applications to: Atton’s Lake Regional Park Authority

Box 12, Cut Knife, SK S0M 0N0

Fax: (306) 500-9974

Email: attonsadmin@sasktel.net

Phone (306) 390-7374 Or

Maidstone Quilting Squares invited the community to view their work

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

The past eight days have been an experience of a lifetime for Doug and me. We took our first trip out of Canada in 23 years, spending eight days in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We learned about the people and culture, ate tons of delicious foods (and a few never-again items), took in a little sun, water (pool/ocean/rainfall soaking), visited monkeys, a casino and a jungle/waterfall at night, where we even went quadding for an hour and luckily no anaconda dropped from the trees.

The RIU Palace Macao treated us like royalty. Everywhere, locals and tourists from all over the world were so friendly. It was 25 C to 30 C every day, a drastic change from -35 C when we left. Coming home to “feels like” -10 C is not too bad. Thank you to Holly Fleming for your assistance in making this dream come true.

Last week’s Chase the Ace winner at Maidstone Legion Club Room was Skitchell

(Donny Mitchell). He’s won a few times over the years, this one being $205, but he flipped the ace of diamonds, not the ace of spades, so this week the jackpot is over $6,400 with 35 cards left.

Top Maidstone Bowling scores last week were Youth Junior: Parker 164, Jack 147, Nicholas 137. Ladies: Leanne W 212, Inga G 200, Esther J 190. Mixed Individual: Doreen H 212, Keith M 190, Walter K 179. Evening League Women: Leanne D 252, Melissa P 239, Joyce G

211; Men: Justin W 242, Kyle S 226, Ryan D 213, Doug S 213. High Triples: Leanne D 680, Doug S 604, Inga G 555, Doreen H 514.

Midwest Family Connections will be at Ratushniak Elementary School in Maidstone on Thursday, Feb. 12, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. MST for another Early Learning Session: Play Learn Grow. If you have pre-school children, be sure to take this in.

Maidstone Quilting Squares invite you to join them in the United Church

CE Wing on Monday, Feb. 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. MST. Come to visit and view some of their projects. Coffee, tea and sweets will be served.

Maidstone Skating Carnival queen contestants are Hannah Bailey, Stella Ducherer and Braylie Salter. Tickets are $2 or a book for $20. The girls will be busy selling through February and March. Whoever sells the most is crowned queen and the prize draws will be at the carnival on Mar. 22.

Reminders:

• Feb. 6 to 8 (Friday to Sunday): Midwest Oil’R’Ag Bonspiel 2026 hosted by Maidstone Curling Club.

• Monday, Feb: Kids’ Club at Maidstone Grace Community Church 3:15 to 5 p.m.

MST. Register with Melanie Pompu; she walks from school with kids.

• Friday, Feb. 13: Maidstone Minor Ball registration deadline. Call Tennille Wakefield at 306-903-7333 if you need more information.

• Saturday, Feb. 14: Family Fun Event at Maidstone Bowling Alley. Call 306-8934309 or call/text Dusty at 306-895-3515 for more info.

Doug and Kathy Utri interacting with squirrel monkeys at Monkeyland, Punta Cana.

View from the balcony at RIU Palace Macao, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. | Photos courtesy Kathy Utri

Plans begin for Mayfair’s 100-year anniversary celebration

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Looks like winter will be almost over with the warming up, but don’t be fooled, we all know differently. Easter is earlier this year, so as long as the snow has disappeared and there’s not much mud, everyone should be happy.

Last week’s potluck in Ruddell had a good attendance. It was supposed to be a week prior, but due to the extreme cold, it was rescheduled. The ladies’ group appreciate a $100 donation to their club by the vendors on site at the potluck. A great evening of food, friendship and laughter was shared.

The 2026 Grade 12 graduating classes in all schools wrote their exams last week and now only have to wait until June to write some more important exams. I’m sure much planning for the graduation theme, suitable decorations and purchasing of the gowns has these students abuzz. Obviously, it takes planning and volunteers to make this a special occasion. June isn’t that far ahead.

Mayfair up and coming events include the usual third Wednesday (Feb. 18) coffee, food and visiting around noon until 2 p.m. at the library. Of course, Theresa, the librarian, likes to see people signing out books and returning the ones that have been read. Remember, it isn’t all about books, as there are computers, internet access, Wi-Fi, e-resources and much more. Coffee is always on.

Saturday, Feb. 21, from 1 to 4 p.m., come enjoy playing games in the hall. There is a good selection of board or card games, or one can bring a new one for others to try. Don’t stay indoors moping about the weather; come have a great time with the area people. If you do not know them, this is an opportunity to meet others.

The 100-year anniversary of the establishment of Mayfair is approaching in 2027. A meeting is scheduled for sometime in March. A committee is getting organized. As with any important function, many have to be involved to get action. Bet-

cha’ there will be many old photos and yearbooks there.

Third daughter of Rick and Pam Lamontagne (Whitkow) has moved back from northern British Columbia. Welcome, Morgan, her partner Lane and baby girl. The couple is keen on raising cattle.

Best Buy electronics retailer, donated $1,000 to Spiritwood High School. This money is to enhance the tech devices in the school.

Many curling bonspiels are coming up in most places and a few snowmobile rallies keep winter from being boring.

My past weekend was a different experience in California, to say the least.

A group of 30 visited Salvation Mountain near Slab City. East Jesus and Bombay Beach (near Salton Sea) were our last stop after we had lunch in a funky “ hippie” restaurant. A lot of walking was required, especially at Salvation Mountain under a hot sun. This so-called mountain was constructed in the 1980s from adobe, straw and thousands

of gallons of colourful paint. Leonard Knight saw his vision come true with the help of many. This is a monument to God’s love, as he became a spiritual person in his middle age. It took approximately 30 years to create. The installation includes biblical verses and a large red heart and at the peak of this fake mountain is a tall white cross. It is considered

a folk art masterpiece recognized as a national treasure.

Thousands of tourists are attracted each year.

East Jesus, not far from Salvation Mountain, features a 30-acre art centre.

The art is debatable — “Is it still a piece of junk or what?” Many worldly artists flock here for periodic workshops with creativity flowing at its best. The old

saying is one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. A stroll on Salton Sea ended the two-and-a-half-hour drive back to Yuma, Ariz. This is my fourteenth winter season in the Yuma area and I never heard about Salvation Mountain. Yes, I’d recommend it to anyone, especially creative metal artists, who perhaps could pick up a few tips.

An enthusiastic crowd turned out for a rescheduled potluck in Ruddell last week. | Photo courtesy Carole Schmidt

Salvation Mountain in California, made of adobe and straw, always requires upkeep as volunteers want to keep Leonard Knight’s legacy alive for many decades. | Photos by Elaine Woloshyn

A tractor with colourful embellishments at Salvation Mountain.