News Optimist January 31

News

Council supports elected school boards

Sports

Everybody Has a Story

Tough loss for Silvernagle

8

2

Sask. Skies

Venus a spotlight

Rhea Good

15

6

Garden Chat

Slug wars

16

Check us out online at

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@BfordsNewsOpt

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Volume 109 No. 26

In the news this week

Staff An investigation is under way into an early-morning structure fire on the 1400 block of 104th Street in North Battleford.

North Battleford Fire Department was dispatched to the scene around 4 a.m.

North Battleford, Sask.

Sunday.

According to a news release, crew found the structure engulfed in flames.

A second and third alarm was initiated and assistance from Battleford Fire Department was requested.

A total of 18 firefighters from both fire departments

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

were on the scene, and the equipment on the scene included three engines, one utility vehicle and one command unit. Fire crews worked for five hours to bring the blaze under control.

There were no civilian injuries, but two fire fighters

— one from Battleford and one from North Battleford Fire Department — were taken to hospital, treated for non-life-threating injuries and released.

The cause is still under investigation and the estimated cost of damage is unknown at this time.

A Walk to Remember The annual Walk for Alzheimer’s took place at the NationsWEST Field House on Sunday. This is the fifth Alzheimer’s Walk in the Battlefords and the fourth to take place at the field house. Participants were there to walk in support of, or in memory of, their friends or loved ones afflicted by Alzheimer’s.

The event began with a memorial lap to commemorate those who have been lost in the past year. The event coincides with January being Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Fundraising went on in advance of the event with participants collecting pledges. Proceeds go towards the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan. Photo by John Cairns

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PAGE 2 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Potential education, health board changes concern council

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Len Taylor makes his thoughts known at Monday’s council meeting on the issue of school board and health board amalgamations. Council voted in favour of crafting a letter of support for school board elections which will be sent to the province. Photo by John Cairns

North Battleford city councillors vented at length at Monday’s meeting about the transformational change discussions going on in the province.

Councillors made clear they are concerned not only about school board amalgamations and possibly doing away with elections, but also the elimination of the health regions in favour of a single province-wide authority.

The issue came up in response to correspondence from Glen Gantefoer, chair of the Light of Christ Catholic Schools board.

Gantefoer asked for a letter of support from council for retaining elected boards and for no further amalgamations.

In response, council has unanimously passed a resolution in favour of locally elected school boards. The next step will be crafting the letter of support and sending it to the province, with that letter incorporating all the concerns expressed by council on the issue.

The issue of restructuring school boards has gained momentum over the past month with a sixperson advisory panel holding meetings across the province.

Gantefoer and Living Sky board chair Ronna Pethick had held a joint press conference in January in which they both expressed support for continuing with elected boards.

Council members made it known they agreed with Gantefoer and that they did not want to see any changes to the school board structure.

Their concerns mainly revolved around the impact of losing regional decisions, but Councillor Kent Lindgren’s concern was much more basic. He felt the proposed school board changes were simply undemocratic.

“I really do have a firm belief in locally elected people making decisions for local people,” said Lindgren.

Eliminating elected boards, he said, “really goes against that belief in democracy to me.” Lindgren called on council to “stand with other locally elected representatives” on the issue.

“I don’t think it’s a huge jump from removing certain elected people to removing other elected

I really do have a firm belief in locally elected people making decisions for local people.

— Kent Lindgren people,” said Lindgren.

However, the concerns for council went beyond education. Several of them voiced their opposition to amalgamating the Prairie North Health Region into a single provincial health authority.

Both Councillor Don Buglas and Councillor Kelli Hawtin wanted to show support for local representation at the health regions as well.

“We have unique needs in our area,” said Hawtin.

Councillor Len Taylor pointed to examples of initiatives that got their start at the regional level in both health and education.

He credited Prairie North Health Region for “working very hard to find the money and the staffing” to bring the regional dialysis centre to the Battlefords. The dialysis unit at Battlefords Union Hospital was recently expanded and moved to a new location on the third floor, with a ribbon-cutting taking place Tuesday morning.

Taylor also pointed to Sakewew High School as another example, an initiative of both local school boards and the tribal councils to improve aboriginal

graduation rates.

“Those were regional decisions that were then taken to the province,” said Taylor.

“We have to applaud our community and the region for what it’s done, and the best way to do that is don’t change it.”

Councillor Greg Lightfoot expressed concern about the likely centralization of health services in the major cities.

“We will lose some very good paying jobs in this area,” said Lightfoot.

“And that will hurt our economy in a big way.”

Mayor Ryan Bater was in agreement with what he had heard from councillors.

“The solutions to a challenge are best solved closest to where that challenge is,” said Bater.

He also repeated Lightfoot’s concern that local jobs will be lost to Saskatoon or Regina.

“Those jobs will absolutely be noticed in a community our size,” said Bater.

While North Battleford city council has made its thoughts known on the issue of “transformational change,” opposition continues to mount elsewhere, including from the province’s unions.

CUPE issued a news release Jan. 24 voicing concern that the consultation process is being “rushed” and is not offering meaningful opportunities for engagement. The union has come out against any changes.

“Frontline workers, who have already had hours reduced because of government funding cuts, are concerned that restructuring will remove community accountability, create unstable labour relations and, most importantly, lower the quality of education for students,” said Tom Graham, president of CUPE Saskatchewan, in a statement.

“CUPE supports the status quo of maintaining the existing 28 elected school divisions. Perrins’ report has not provided any evidence or rationale for further amalgamations.”

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Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 3

Community safety initiative moves on to ‘broader issues’

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

A major topic of Herb Sutton’s monthly report to North Battleford city council that was presented at a Jan. 23 council meeting was an update of the activities of the Safety, Acceptance, Guidance, Empowerment group.

He spoke with enthusiasm about SAGE’s phase two proposal that has been completed and has been sent to Public Safety Canada.

“We feel with our SAGE group that we are finished our phase one work,” said Sutton.

The preparatory work and capacity building to enhance community engagement has been completed, and Sutton said phase two will focus on the “broader issues.”

The phase two proposal includes three major goals.

One would be a regional steering committee, which would include four levels of government: federal, provincial, municipal and First Nation.

It’s a recognition that the problems with respect to public safety are of a regional nature, Sutton said.

The second goal as part of the proposal is developing formalized neighbourhoods, and the third is further developing an aboriginal engagement plan, which Sutton said should fit in well with their steering committee.

A lot of the time spent putting the proposal together included going back through the SAGE model and it was felt that by closely aligning their proposal with that model, there was a better chance of getting funding and being successful with their proposal.

Four tires stolen Staff

Battlefords RCMP responded to approximately 35 new occurrences between 6 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26 and 6 a.m. Friday Jan. 27.

Thursday, Jan. 26

New initiatives for The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords include a mobile outreach program. News-Optimist file photo

“It’s closely aligned with federal policy direction and provincial policy direction,” said Sutton.

He added that in one conversation with a federal government representative the feedback was that their proposal was “bang-on”— exactly what the government was looking for in an application.

Sutton said he was told that if the money cannot be found under Public Safety Canada, they will help find other ministries that have some resources.

The money asked for is

$252,064.64 from the federal government; the total project cost is $380,000.

The City contribution includes many in-kind costs and those have already been in place for the SAGE group.

On the issue of housing security and homelessness, Sutton talked about The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords and highlighted the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser event. That event is to be held Feb. 25, and Sutton noted there was a big need for volunteers and assistance to help with

that event.

Some new programming is also being explored there, Sutton indicated, including mobile outreach with a van and staff, as well as a managed alcohol program.

Another item is a proposal for a 12-room “rooming house model” going to Sask. Housing Corporation. This differs from The Lighthouse because it would be longer-term, sustainable housing and it differs from transitional housing because those involved require 24/7 supervision.

Honorariums frozen for 2017

By Shannon Kovalsky Staff Reporter

In a move for increased transparency, Battleford town council updated its policy for the mayor and council’s compensation.

The proposed amendment is the latest in the Town administration’s systematic updating of outdated policy.

According to the administrative report presented

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at council Jan. 23, the proposed amendments would “clarify when remuneration is set, the amount of remuneration, how per diem is set and the amount, a cap on meal per diem allowance for food.” The report goes on to that the proposed amendments “further removes the inherent tension of council setting its own pay rate.”

At last week’s council meeting councillors also

voted on a resolution to freeze their current honorariums for one year.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor McLean Tady said the vote was an easy one, given the province’s current economic slump.

On Jan. 1, 2016 the mayor’s honorarium was raised to $21,585.15, up from $20,975.40 in 2015, and council’s salary was $ 8,780.40, up from $8,536.50.

10:40 a.m. - Report of a hit and run in the Cochin area. Minor damage done to a vehicle that was parked.

1:07 p.m. - Report of a two-vehicle collision on Territorial Drive near the Frontier Centre.

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www.newsoptimist.ca

vehicles.

1:36 p.m. - Report that all four tires were stolen off a vehicle parked on Railway Avenue. The theft occurred at around 3 a.m. the previous night.

8:04 p.m. - Report of suspicious people trying to break into vehicles parked on the 800 block of 107th Street.

News-Optimist.ca Last week’s News-Optimist online poll:

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• Barack Obama isn’t president? When did this happen.

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PAGE 4 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

From this

CORNER

By Becky Doig Editor

Here we go again. At least once every ski season some semi-evolved quad jockey feels the need to trespass on Finlayson Island and destroy the ski trails.

This was the scene that greeted one enthusiastic skier Sunday. What a letdown. You squeeze an outing into your hectic schedule to enjoy some fresh air and exercise while communing with nature in a relaxing environment.

Instead your outing turns to one filled with anger and disgust.

Unlike the niggling annoyance skiers feel when they see hikers have tromped on the classic trails in spite of having several metres of groomed freestyle lanes to walk on, quad insanity is difficult to put aside.

Quads are forbidden on the island, so why does this happen? It happens because quad jockeys have the innate sense they are not governed by any rules. It seems they might be right.

I used to call the police every time I saw quads go down the lane beside Eiling Kramer campground and cruise across the flats, on their way to cause further destruction of the North Saskatchewan River valley. I don’t bother anymore. Those calls were acted on at one time, but no more. Too many other, more important crimes to deal with no doubt.

But quad damage is a crime. In the case of the ski trails, it costs the City of North Battleford man hours, fuel, equipment upkeep and other costs to groom the trails. After the quad jockeys have had their fun, that has to be redone. More taxpayers’ money being wasted on repairing senseless vandalism.

How about an outright ban on the manufacture and sale of quads? Perhaps we could lobby President Trump to pass an executive order. I expect many are manufactured in the United States.

Letter

Wall needs to walk the walk Dear Editor When it comes to financial sacrifice, Brad Wall clearly has no interest in practicing what he preaches. Wall had no problem saying he expects “goodwill and good faith” from public sector workers while threatening them with layoffs and pay cuts. He clearly had no problem telling 251 custodial workers – the lowest-paid government workers –they’ll be fired as soon as he chooses a contractor to replace them with employees who are paid even less. But when Wall had a chance to show leadership and integrity by giving up some of his own income, he wanted no part of it.

Wall is now the last premier in Canada to accept a salary top up from his party. It’s paid out of donations to the Sask. Party, meaning Wall is personally taking money from the corporations and wealthy individuals his policies benefit. Wall’s $37,000 “top up” is about the same as what a full-time government custodian makes in a year. He could give it up and still be making a taxpayer-funded salary of $166,140.

When B.C. Premier Christy Clark recently stopped accepting her own stipend, Wall was encouraged to do the same. He refused.

Is this the kind of premier we want running our province? One who continues pocketing tens of thousands in corporate donations each year, while throwing hundreds of Saskatchewan workers out of their living-wage jobs?

Don’t be fooled. We’re not all in this together. Wall and his government are exempting themselves from having to make financial sacrifices in tough economic times, despite expecting everyone else to compromise.

Sid Wonitowy Yorkton

Letters to the editor are welcomed by the NewsOptimist. All letters, including those which are faxed or e-mailed, must be signed and bear the address and telephone number of the writer. The name of the writer will be published. Letters are subject to editing. Personal attacks will not be printed. Letters will be rejected if they contain libelous statements or are unsigned.

Published since 1905

A community newspaper published Tuesdays

by Battlefords Publishing Ltd. 892 104th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 1M9 (Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the above) Telephone: 306-445-7261 – Fax: 306-445-3223 Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net Personal Delivery Charge — Out of Town $44.29 Plus GST.

Becky Doig Editor

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Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 5

Tax assessment committee officially a go

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

North Battleford is moving forward towards getting started with their Assessment and Taxation Review Committee in 2017.

That was confirmed at their regular council meeting Monday. A resolution was passed unanimously to approve the mandate and membership of the committee.

The plan now is to set up the first meeting of the committee in the first quarter of 2017. City Man-

ager Jim Puffalt said the target for that meeting is the mid-March.

Council had previously talked about the committee and its make up during a

Planning Committee meeting the week before. The committee would look into a potential change from the current modified cost approach to assessment to a

potential rental income approach.

Its mandate would be to evaluate the income approach, and also review the various assessment methods and property tax tools to determine “if the existing system is valid or if there are changes that should be made.”

The committee includes the mayor and council as well as representatives from the Battlefords Chamber of Commerce, Downtown North Battleford, multifamily complex owners, the condominium association, the

realtors association and the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency.

Puffalt indicated he and Director of Finance David Gillan have had a number of detailed discussions about the committee. The city manager stressed it would be a long process.

“This is something that can’t be implemented overnight,” said Puffalt.

He pointed to 2019 at the earliest for the implementation of different methods of assessment.

Still, he welcomed the opportunity for the committee to get started. “It’s

important to start the process,” said Puffalt.

The indication is that a major focus early on will simply be to bring everyone on the committee, councillors included, up to speed on the issue.

“I think in the beginning it will be a lot of education for all those involved,” Mayor Ryan Bater said.

Puffalt said the first step will be to invite SAMA to make a presentation to the committee so that everyone could have “the same frame of reference” on assessment.

Key categories see increases in RCMP’s crime report

By Shannon Kovalsky Staff Reporter

In keeping with the upward trend of previous years, calls for service, criminal code and property offences are on the rise, reports the RCMP. At Battleford’s regular town council meeting Monday, Jan. 23, Sgt. Jason Teniuk shared the final statistics of 2016 from the

Playing the name game

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The possibility of raising revenue from selling naming rights to City of North Battleford arenas came up for discussion at Monday night’s council meeting.

The question was raised

by Councillor Kelli Hawtin who asked about naming rights possibilities at the Civic Centre, and asked if that had been looked into.

City manager Jim Puffalt said the issue has been discussed on a number of occasions, not only regarding the Civic Centre but also Don Ross Arena. He noted there were some possibilities for board advertising at Don Ross Arena and also for the zamboni there as well.

Director of leisure services Bill Samborski said they currently sell some Don Ross Arena board advertising and some wallboard advertising as well.

They have also sold some corporate advertising on the panels at the field house.

The stumbling block, he said, was “appreciating a value” for these facilities.

The indication from administration seemed to be that they would look into the issue. Samborski said it’s something he’s wanted to look at over the past year, but it’s “on our radar and we’d like to get a little bit more aggressive with that.”

latest quarter report covering the period of October to December.

Last year saw a final tally of calls for service at 1,243, up from 1,028 the previous year.

The starkest increases were in property offences, up from 277 to 374 in 2016, criminal code offences, which rose from 93 to 120, and residence break and enters, which more than doubled to 32, up from 14 in 2015.

Teniuk admitted the increases seen in some categories can be unsettling, but said crime rates work in an “ebb and flow” pattern and the detachment will have a “more concentrated effort looking at those specific [issues].”

“Sometimes when you see increases, like with property [crime] increases, that concerns me,” said Teniuk during the meeting.

“When I see increases in other things, like impaired driving, those things don’t concern me because that means they’re doing enforcement efforts. You want to see that. There’s certain areas where we want to see increases. If we aren’t doing anything about it then those calls for service in that area would be significantly lower.”

Most categories saw light increases, although false alarms fell noticeably last year, which is good news, says Teniuk.

“I do like to see the false alarms [down]. We’re go-

ing from 104 to 71. That’s a lot of unnecessary work and a lot of grief and a lot of time. That’s encouraging to me.”

Other decreases came in municipal bylaws, down from 19 to 13, and in drug offences, down from 13 to nine. Teniuk doesn’t expect that number to stay low, however.

“We were at 13 in 2015 and we’re at nine in 2016.

With our suppression shifts going on right now, I expect that to increase substantially. I would suggest we may be close to doubling that if the shifts are working the way I anticipate they will.”

Teniuk added, “[Battleford has] got the issues like any other community and there’s drug issues here

like anywhere else.”

Teniuk also shared the efforts that have so far been implemented by the Battlefords RCMP, reading from a statement prepared

by S/Sgt. Darcy Woolfitt.

To address property crime the detachment has undetaken some internal reshuffling and “are now moving to blend our rural and urban community safety strategies, recogniz-

ing that these issues know no boundaries.”

Ultimately, states the report, the department realignment will develop the Community Safety Committees “with mixed representation from across the detachment area to provide input into the development of policing priorities” and implement a Community Safety Enhancement Strategy.

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PAGE 6 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

R hea Go o d l l e w e v i l o t s l l i k Teaching s

rk on four raised they decided to start wo beds. e more oriented ke a decision, think people have becom en oft t “It’s May, we have to ma tha ds nee are s.”

“There ice the ground, cho in ds ier ndational to health because I need to put see part, doesn’t seem to become sort of the fou en all of a her Th . for , pen od hap Go not going to to peroit’s ts orp or den inc stu en wh for ion on ati vis tiv ng mo rarchi K, we’re going to cause the have an ove sudden, Cargill said ‘O lesson. a o int sts ere int l na form better skills be rso nt to give rating her pe ms guided by giving her give you $7000.’” world needs them. I wa see of possibility,” she r, the Ra rld wo be the “Now we’re in the realm n they might tha ns tio op the students skills that re rth of funding mo wo ts 0 den ,50 and make stu Good. With $11 e s iat say rec app d an d nee ll wi n agreed to help reciated accustomed to. t it also in place, the school divisio bu n, sio pas my of d them more loved and app kin Kardynal and his “That’s ood,” says with the remaining cost. le to take ang ng sti ere int an as they go into adulth t jus of g before the end functional is sort class finished the footin “You could do a s. say she John Paul II Collegiate g,” kin en classes rewh coo d on Good. of the school year an t focuses on brownies, tha integration teacher Rhea ss cla was finished g rk kin wo coo the l with the ss that’s turned in the fal cla g kin coo a ch Good took up her role tea ld hot week in Nogram five or you cou during an unseasonably s. ble eta special education pro veg on ed she has in- orient it. I would vember. years ago. Since then, hat’s my ethical take on of invention,” “T in st ere int fry, l r na sti “Necessity is the mother a rso ke pe ma her to ed w rat ho po m cor the ch tea enhouse last her gre a rat ut nable garGood says, so, witho for the health bene to healthy eating and sustai d season, she was still abl s an to dening into her lesson lls ski teach horticulture le mid has implemented multip an r yea st La her students. her e cro businesses that teach hav ts den stu r, over winte use n’ students skills they can rde ‘ga a of e car taken outside of the classroom. ts, on of herbs planted in po ati egr int al ion Funct rd thi l’s oo life housed in the sch teaches students skills for e to er ord in s ow Th floor wind after school, Good says. m fro rgy ene ch mu as t is take in goals set for each studen s. ray r needs the sun’s weak, winte individualized to their m By last summer, the class fro ge and skill level and ran the rdenhad two harvests from cooking, sewing and ga d sol d an n rde ga t king makeshif ing, to hygiene and pic Ki to bs her of ion ect at ble the sel the right fruit or vegeta ly, ate tim hiw restaurant. Ul the store. rnod says, the longterm goal lea Go zed With individuali w] rk on is “that we will give [Kihi ing “some students wo nmo rth wo t’s tha ing ori someth skills more academically learn ey and sustainable.” ented and some students “We’re not looking to s. life skills,” she say ’re ed make a profit, but we The six students assign cro mi se the ke ma eslooking to to her classroom this sem at e tim ir sinesses sustainable,” she the bu of st mo nd ter spe o atadds. this “home base,” but als chtea er For Good, success comes oth th tend classes wi ll, a and not just from learning a ski ers. There are also three she is, t tha rk wo the ing of but in do half staff that work out gram terms, purposeful. functional integrated pro , ervis“We’re growing plants room to assist in sup t bu rs, we flo s e job not just to hav ing students as they do l. ’re growing plants to use oo we sch the d aroun in are o wh them,” she says.

“The students d by use in un bo as t no are .” ice ms And, with the greenho pes .” special progra making that cho ng of nti ts pla efi or tdo ts,” ou ho den m stu she s gra tream exe- play this year, Good say ated pro the cur riculum as mains talks to come up with an As the functional integr g rin Du ugh eno ste ere hav l int t y’l ularly Good tha that, by June, the Good says. manager, Good was partic e plan, Hansen informed l abl cia cut the at spe l ly in sel on t to ced e no l, pla t, abl na jec be are rdy rden pro r, Jeff Ka salad greens to “When students My ed in starting a ga but to foster a feel- the industrial arts teache stu es. d ng an cha ff of sta as t for sor use y ho ck ver en tra t school’s ser programs, tha in making a gre d ch useful skills, ste tea to ere int . s ate wa du gra for to s dit caring dents. students do not require cre the program ing of accomplishment through a class project. d purin e tim ir . the nts nd pla spe ll Beyond just her class an wi might be a good parts They thi ht ug tho “I other aan rel t w tha sho day to ow on the “I kn provide view, Good wants where they work nership. We can sort of nk nthi fou we the if w , ho are nts d als ips an pla go nsh er ing tio way of eat of looking aft individualized r ou lab day toing in nn h pla dation of growt ing. Not just by tructure.” that are documented you can provide the infras for a whole about eat rk. wo of d lm an rea s ion ous meals, but by makthi ly lus trit app nu inc eat to in the xt step was “to Ne us foc en we wh n “Ofte tunately, g healthy the best posintervention plan.”

We’re growing bunch of grants.” Unfor ponse, it was ing “eatin for ing car on m ch fro mu so a res Moving sible choice.”

Good and Kardynal got greenthe student that we forplants, not just The novelty of a school Lawrence School, . no lls for ski . off the Mr worn ’s and get to teach Good has been able e got nine consecutive ‘no green- house hasn’t yet “W f sel op ] e em “th [th es e lik s to have flower, ‘OK, the that giv to inject her lesson Good, who says she Kardynal and I were like, of e car e me tak et to n , me ow so eem , est at JP with her tics of it.” use isn’t going to happen but we’re growing [th who eirself], but also to ho e, we can’t do a big thing, but we’ll “I like that everybody teaching philosotsid ou to s itie bil ho en use, have responsi phy, something that walks by sees the gre plants to use them. sed beds.’ rai do s. ng er thi er n. It’s a ord oth rde an place care for wasn’t possible in an sees the school’s ga Good had just called to d nee ‘I en of stuch] wh lot tea l ds a o oo be for “[T sch eight raised elementary new experience — Rhea Good, Funcmy for enough dirt for ke ma alike, let , to ts ed e s den nd abl asi stu sou ph be e am to em on tre ir ts, mains with the ion on her ph g den of tea be- a notificat tin sta le.” cup tab a ail ary to em m ess n tional Integration mo an nec rde t ga go m the on to go fro ting her know she tchcause she likes that,’ ‘I ed a grant for $3500. ard standardized skillGood says that Saska aw en be teacher at JP II y’d the ite wr to en e ew be kn abl d has be y an to s. tor d g nee building lesson ewan’s farming his “We’d priced everythin my for d ay be. car ryd to ay eve ’s ing od thd r go ou bir Go s a wa m At JP, detached fro how much everything informed by a t’s meaningful for her.’” ser, but not a step experience and that, nowadays, tha clo se p ste cau teaching philosophy is e be sid ter a sis re we eat We st in healthy ender self-estime” combination of her intere Good’s first idea to eng people have to “take the closer.” ning; rde ss ga cla ic a d an s an wa org garod d d ity an Go an bil s y le nsi ough respo ing; sustainab to make sustainabilit Within the next few day ning tem, which teem thr cer sys er dis ion oth er she an cat aft JP, it ed edu t At . ard ins d’s aw life aga lan s and Fin , but decided dening a part of Kardynal’s project wa It . ch to all students. pet 00 lun s $10 iou . for le. trit ail A, nu mp ent a SIG exa es uld m by vid t wo ng pro time fro popular trends what tha t is teachi to do with grant, this h for the greenhouse, bu ug She also “[tries] to follow s, adding, “I o [I thought] something eno “S t sn’ wa ll sti on plants might hit the nail in our society,” she say just started askthe head,” says Good. “I at’s a dream, wh d an ing what’s possible this?” what are the logistics of the garden projof ge sta ing nn The pla beginning of the r ect began in earnest nea 2016. n and I went “[JP Principal] Mr. Hanse oo sch l to think for a walk around the up to plant two ‘what grass could we dig . od Go ns apple trees?’” explai original idea. “[Apple trees were] my d un the school, We literally walked aro s spot,’ ‘maybe thi ‘maybe here,’ ‘maybe d.’ be a do ld along here we cou to start digate nd ma the e “I don’t hav versation con t tha ging up lawns, but in doing for as ide ent we talked about differ any kind of

Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 7

RM of Sherwood councillors in a conflict of interest Staff The Rural Municipality of Sherwood in southern Saskatchewan has yet again become an example of what not to do in dealing with municipal conflicts of interest.

Three reports were issued Friday by Saskatchewan’s ombudsman, Mary McFadyen, into alleged conflicts of two municipal council members in the RM, as well as a separate case involving the ex-mayor of the village of Manor.

In the case of Sherwood, McFadyen found councillor Tim Probe, who was also deputy reeve, and former Councillor Joe Repetski were both in a conflict of interest at a Jan. 13, 2016 council meeting in the RM. She has also recommended the RM vote on whether to apply to the Court of Queen’s Bench for an order to disqualify Probe from sitting on council. Repetski did not seek re-election.

The two councillors had not declared a conflict of interest during that meeting, when a delegation of voters made a presentation requesting the RM take steps to recover money paid to the two councillors under a bylaw quashed by the Queen’s Bench court.

The money covered

their legal fees related to the Barclay Inquiry that examined whether any Sherwood council members had a pecuniary interest in the proposed Wascana Village development.

The investigation that followed led to Sherwood reeve Kevin Eberle being removed from office by the province in February 2015 over his conflicts of interest involving that development.

According to a summary of the investigation at the ombudsman’s website, the RM had reimbursed both councillors Probe and Repetski’s fees under its Indemnity Bylaw. That bylaw was later determined by the court to be invalid in a Septmber 2015 decision.

At their Jan. 13, 2016 meeting, a motion was made to take steps to recover the money paid out to Probe and Repetski by the RM. But according to the ombudsman’s office, instead of declaring a conflict of interest and leaving the room, as was required under the Municipalities Act, Probe and Repetski instead focused council’s attention as to whether the motion was properly before council under Robert’s Rules of Order.

Council then postponed the motion. But McFadyen

pointed out that had Probe and Repetski followed the conflict of interest rules, the motion would not have been put off.

Council eventually came to a decision to take steps to recover the money paid, but that did not take place until an Oct. 28, 2016 special meeting.

By then, both councillors were already in trouble, with Probe facing criminal charges for municipal corruption and breach of trust, as well as provincial calls for his removal from office.

Neither councillor took part in the Oct. 28 special meeting.

The ombudsman also weighed in on a separate conflict situation, this one involving the village of Manor. There, the village made a decision to sell what was previously a public campground site to the former mayor’s son, but it was found the former mayor did not properly declare and disclose that conflict of interest.

The village also did not follow its own public notice bylaw, failing to give notice of its intention to sell the land.

In a statement, McFadyen said these instances show that conflicts do arise.

“Residents need to know that their council members

are acting only in the best interest of their community. It is not uncommon for council members to have private interests that could conflict with their ability to carry out their public duties. That’s why it is so important for them to know what to do to address conflicts of interest.”

In its news release, the ombudsman’s office cited a wide range of rules under the Cities Act, the Municipalities Act, and the Northern Municipalities Act 2010 to deal with a conflict of interest.

In those instances, council members are required to declare a conflict before the matter comes up. They must disclose what it is and how it might affect his or her impartiality. They are required to abstain from a vote on any question, decision, recommendation or other action on the matter and refrain from participating in any discussion. They must leave the room until discussion and a vote are concluded.

Consequences for those who do not follow the rules include resignation and ineligibility from nomination or election in any municipality for 12 years.

As for the RM of Sherwood, the ongoing issues there ultimately led to changes to provincial leg-

islation to bring in more stringent disclosure requirements and regulations for municipalities.

New provincial legislation kicked in on the day of the municipal election, Oct. 26, 2016. The requirements had an immediate effect on municipal governments across Saskatchewan including the Battlefords area.

After the municipal election, North Battleford council introduced an updated code of ethics and new disclosure forms.

Those included more extensive and stringent requirements for elected officials to declare information

about employers, land holdings within the municipality, and other conflicts.

The disclosure forms were discussed at council at their Nov. 14 meeting. At that time Mayor Ryan Bater explained the main change was that disclosure was now required not just from elected officials, but for immediate family as well.

The Town of Battleford also updated and strengthened their disclosure requirements early in 2016.

There as well, the conflict of interest issues in the RM of Sherwood and tougher provincial rules were cited as reasons behind the changes.

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Cheer Legacy Athletics had been seeking to relocate for some time, and had been operating from a temporary location on Marquis Avenue in the M2 industrial zone.

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Tough loss for Silvernagle rink at provincials Staff Robyn Silvernagle’s run through the provincial playdowns came up one win short Sunday in Melville.

Her Twin Rivers Curling Club rink, which includes third Dayna Demers, second Christina Goertzen and lead Kara Thevenot, were defeated

by Moose Jaw’s Penny Barker in the Viterra Saskatchewan Scotties

women’s championship game in a thrilling 10-7 affair.

The Silvernagle rink, who finished in the roundrobin with a 7-1 record and defeated Saskatoon’s Stefanie Lawton in a 9-7 extra-end contest in the 1 vs. 2 Page playoff game Saturday night, found themselves in trouble early as Barker stole points in the first three ends to take a 4-0 lead.

Down 5-2 at the fifthend break, Silvernagle began to claw her way back as she picked up a single point in the sixth and stole another in the seventh to cut the lead down to one.

In the eighth end, Silvernagle was lying three after her last shot without the hammer, but Barker made a clutch draw to the button for a single point and a 6-4 lead.

Silvernagle, who was

looking to win her first provincial title since capturing the junior crown in 2005, picked up her first lead of the game in the ninth end as a series of strong shots by her team gave her three points and a 7-6 advantage.

Already sitting one before she threw her last shot in the 10th end, Barker made a takeout to earn four points and capture her first provincial title.

Barker, who is joined

on her rink by third Deanna Doig, second Lorraine Schneider and lead Danielle Sicinski, completed a remarkable run to the championship.

After going 4-4 in the round-robin, Barker defeated Biggar’s Brett Barber 9-3 in Saturday’s tiebreaker game and then rallied from a 6-2 deficit to pick up an 8-6 win over Saskatoon’s Nancy Martin in the 3 vs. 4 Page playoff

game.

She then stole three points in the final end of Sunday’s semifinal to defeat Lawton by a score of 8-6.

Next up for the Barker rink is a trip to Scotties Tournament of Hearts, which will be held in St. Catherines, Ont. from Feb. 18 to 26.

The full field for that event will be finalized next weekend.

By Lucas Punkari

“It’s a good confidence booster for us ahead of a tough, grueling week, and hopefully we can build off of these two wins.”

Saturday’s 6-1 win came in large part from the play of forwards Adam Beckman and Mackenzie Donovan, as they both had a goal and two assists.

“We changed the lines up about a week ago and Mackenzie and I have formed a good chemistry with Tyson Meyers,” Beckman said.

“We all have left-handed shots, which is a little interesting, but we’ve been able to work well with it and create good chances for each other.”

Meyers finished up the game with a goal and an assist, while Dylan Esau, Ian Hillis and Matthew Flodell also scored.

Sunday’s 3-0 triumph was a memorable one for Joseph Young, as he turned aside 49 shots for his first career SMAAAHL shutout.

“Late in the second period I started to think about getting the shutout, but I tried to get that out of my mind as soon as I could,” Young said.

“My teammates did a really good job of allowing me to see the puck, and we were all communicating well during the entire game.”

Beckman, Jordan Mish and Parker Gavlas all had a goal and an assist in the win.

The Stars will begin a stretch of five games in eight days, at home Tuesday night, when they will go up against the Saskatoon Contacts.

Two key wins for Stars Sports Reporter

Having lost five straight Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League games, the Battlefords AAA Stars were desperate to stop the bleeding and keep pace in the race for the league’s final playoff spot.

They did just that over the weekend at the Civic Centre as they picked up 6-1 and 3-0 victories over the Notre Dame Hounds and now sit one point back of the Beardy’s Blackhawks and Saskatoon Blazers for eighth place in the standings.

“We badly needed those wins and looking at the standings now, we’re only three points out of sixth place,” Stars head coach Jean Fauchon said.

We CATER for staff meetings and

functions.

Size doesn’t matter!

Call for more details.

1642 - 100th St. | North Battleford | 306-445-4042 or 306-480-7840

Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 9

WEAR THEM AND

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THEM! Inspiration BOUTIQUE

PIZZA SPECIAL Any 3 MEDIUM PIZZAS*

30

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TOPPINGS OR GLUTEN FREE CRUST FREE *EXTRA HAVE ADDITIONAL CHARGES. DELIVERY

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CO-OP MALL NORTH BATTLEFORD

306-445-0717

Mixed weekend for North Stars

1642 - 100th Street North Battleford

3 0 6 • 4 4 6 • 1 2 1 2

Ryan McKay controls the puck for the Meota Combines as they face the Radisson Wheatkings at the Civic Centre Friday. Photo by John Cairns

Hat trick for Gregoire in Combines win

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Battlefords North Stars forward Jared Blaquiere and Brandan Arnold of the Nipawin Hawks chase after the puck during Sunday’s game at the Centennial Arena in Nipawin. Photo Courtesy of Devan Tasa/Tisdale Recorder

By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter

For the first time since Oct. 14, the Battlefords North Stars have lost a game away from the friendly confines of the Civic Centre.

Despite firing 41 shots on goal, the top team in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League were unable to solve goaltender Kristian Stead as the Nipawin Hawks picked up a 2-0 win Sunday evening.

The loss snapped the North Stars four-game win streak and their run of 13 consecutive road victories.

“I didn’t like our start a whole lot,” North Stars head coach and general manager Nate Bedford said. “We were fairly passive in the first 10 minutes and we were letting them come to us instead of dictating the pace.

“After that though, I thought it was a pretty even game between two teams.

The better team won today and we’ll have to make a few adjustments here, especially with our starts and our overall offence.”

The Hawks offence came from their top line of Brandon Arnold, Josh Bly and Eric Bolden.

Bly opened the scoring just 29 seconds into the game while Bolden found the back of the net early in the second period.

Both goal scorers also had an assist and Arnold dished out a pair of helpers for the Hawks, who have won eight straight games.

Sunday’s loss came a day after the North Stars cruised to a 6-1 win at home over the Melville Millionaires.

The top team in the SJHL had one of their better starts of the season in

that game, as they scored three goals in the first period.

“We got that early lead and put them back on their heels, which gave us a bit of an advantage,” North Stars forward Ben Allen said. “We had more time to make plays against them and it made things easier for us.”

Allen and Reed Delainey had a goal and an assist each, while Keaton Holinaty, Layne Young, Jared Blaquiere and Connor Mangere also scored.

With Joel Grzybowski being called up to serve as a backup netminder for the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades over the weekend, Taryn Kotchorek has now started the last three games for the North Stars.

Grzybowski is expected to play Friday at home against La Ronge.

Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium The Battlefords ONLY Locally Owned Funeral Provider

At Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium • Few people realize the choices available to them in planning a funeral service. For example, some families consider cremation over earth burial.

This is a matter of personal preference.

• Our goal at Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium is helping families arrange the kind of service that best meets their needs.

TREVOR WATTS Funeral Director & Owner/Operator

• If you or a loved one has a question concerning cremation, or any other aspect of funeral services provided, please do not hesitate to call us.

www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

2741 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK

306-445-7570

The Civic Centre was the locale Friday for another of the high-scoring affairs that the Saskatchewan Prairie Hockey League has become famous for.

The Radisson Wheatkings ended up on the short end of a 8-5 final score to the Meota Combines to kick off the weekend of action.

Leading the way in the game was Kyle Gregoire who scored three goals, one of them on a penalty shot early in the second period.

While the game was a close one most of the way, in the end too many costly penalties at inopportune times came back to haunt Radisson.

The teams traded goals throughout the opening frame. It was Dana Derbowka who put the Wheatkings into the lead just seconds into the first period. But the Combines tied it up on Daxen Collins’ unassisted goal midway through the period.

Radisson took the lead

again on Dan Laviolette’s goal, with Brendan Buller assisting. But Kyle Gregoire’s first of the evening, with Collins assisting, tied it up with 3:33 left.

Laviolette’s second of the contest restored the Radisson lead with 1:46 left in the second. But soon after, and with Radisson shorthanded due to a Brendan Buller tripping penalty, a long shot from near the blue line by Derek Welford careened right past Radisson netminder Jon Rose and into the net.

Assists went to Michael Pylypow and Ryan McKay. The scoreboard was all even at 3-3 after one period.

Early in the second, the Wheatkings went back in front as Richard Bradshaw lifted the puck up and past Meota goaltender Dallas Wright. Troy Rookes and Connor Wainright assisted for Radisson.

But another costly call to Radisson came when Gregoire was hauled down, resulting in a penalty shot being awarded to the Combines at the 4:38 mark.

Gregoire then fired

home his second of the game to knot it up at 4-4.

Meota then took the lead at the 6:53 mark as McKay scored from Pylypow.

Then midway through the period Gregoire notched his hat trick goal with Collins assisting, giving Meota a two-goal lead.

Early in the third the Wheatkings and Combines traded goals, with Wainright’s goal for Radisson quickly cancelled out by Daxen Collins’ marker to make it 7-5 Meota.

An additional goal by Collins with 9:45 left, with Gregoire and Dayne Iverson assisting, gave the Combines all the insurance they needed.

Next up for the Combines is a Thursday night contest against Shellbrook at home at the Civic Centre.

Elsewhere, the Battleford Beaver Blues picked up a 9-2 win over the Spiritwood Timberwolves Friday at the Battleford Arena.

They’ll visit Radisson Wednesday before hosting the Wheatkings Saturday night.

BRRR!

WINTER IS HERE...

Be sure to get your vehicle checked before it leaves you COLD!

FOUR K AUTO 1761-100th St.,North Battleford

306-937-2696

PAGE 10 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

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Deadline: Tuesday 11 a.m.

Deadline: Friday 11 a.m.

Full Color NOW AVAILABLE for your CLASSIFIED AD!

Ph.: 306-445-7265 / 306-445-7266

OBITUARIES HAMEL: Mr. Laurent Hamel of Battleford, Saskatchewan and formerly of Edam, Saskatchewan passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 in Battleford, Saskatchewan at the age of 92 years.

Mass of Christian Burial took place on Tuesday, January 24, 2017 @ 11:00 a.m. from Christ the King Roman Catholic Church with Reverend Father Peter Passe M.S.P. officiating. Interment followed the service in the Edam Catholic Cemetery. Memorial donations in memory of Laurent may be directed to Masses or a Charity of the Donor’s choice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium. For those wishing to leave a condolence you may do so at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Left to cherish his memory are his brothers and sisters; Yvonne Noel; Arthur (Helen) Hamel; RoseAnne (Maurille) Corbeil; Raymond Hamel; brother-in-law Leo Gratton; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Florence; his parents Amede and Nalda Hamel; brothers Wilfred, Alfred, Phillipe, Paul, Louis, and Alec; his sisters Angele, Alice, Leona, and Clair; and sister-in-law Anne Hamel.

Card of Thanks The family would like to thank the staff at Battleford District Care Centre for the great care of Laurent over the years, Reverend Father Peter Passe for celebrating his life at the Mass, to Marie-Ann Corbeil and the Choir from Jackfish, and to the ladies for serving the lunch. The Hamel family.

ROSSETTE: Lorne Albert (“Budgie”) Rossette, March 26, 1951 - January 17, 2017.

Surrounded by his children Lorne peacefully passed away in care at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, SK at the age of 65 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Georgina (Dolly) Rossette; four children: Jason Yazelle, Evan Rossette (Rene), Jodie Bourgonje (Robin) and Lisa Rossette (Dan); four grandchildren: Ashley Rossette, Brayden Reimer, Sydney Wouters and Keyano Yazelle and one greatgranddaughter, Kaycee Rossette. Lorne will be greatly missed by his siblings: Delore Rossette (Bernice), Evelyn LaVallie, Myrtle Desmarais, Violet Ross (Lawrence), Maureen Ross (Carl), Colleen Keyko (Orest) and Bonnie LeBlanc as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family. He was predeceased by his parents Charles and Bernadette Rossette and siblings Hubert Sayers, Delores Franchuk, and Lynn Rossette (nee: Kramer). In keeping with Lorne’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at www.SallowsandMcDonald.com.

The family has placed their trust for arrangements with Martine de Bussac Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner Funeral Home.

FUNERAL SERVICES

MILLER: Shirley Miller (nee Bright), 1922 – 2017. Shirley passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at the age of 94, with loved ones by her side. She is survived by her daughters: Marlene (Garry) and children Craig, Kelli, Michelle, Scott (Colleen), and Jeff (Breanna); Faye (Dennis) and children Dean and Kristi (Dave); Glenda (Darryl) and children Jaclyn (Pat), Erin (Tyler), Ginelle, and Ross (Brandi) as well as ten great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Mel (Ted) Turner, brothers Jim (Jane) Bright, and Wayne (Carol) Bright. Shirley was predeceased by her husband Chester in 2006, her brother Glen and numerous in laws and cousins. Shirley was born at Baljennie, Sk. on September 26, 1922. She began school in Baljennie, finishing in Maymont. She was married in the Maymont United Church to Chester Miller on November 8, 1944. They lived on the family farm at Maymont until moving into town in 1976 and then into Saskatoon in 2000 where she resided in her condo until her passing. Mom spent a lifetime of service to her children, Church, and community, always putting her own needs after everyone else’s. After retiring from the farm, Mom and Dad went on many “farm tours” around the world. After visiting a few of the islands, they settled on spending their winters in Indio, California every year for twenty seven years where they enjoyed the company of Mel and Ted, Wayne and Carol and nephew Bob and Vickie Miller. Mom was always there supporting her daughters with their music and sports as well as all the grandchildren’s births. Memorial donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Canada (granddaughter Kristi is a childhood cancer survivor), or to the Maymont Cemetery Fund. A Celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on Saturday January 28, 2017 at Saskatoon Funeral Home beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be at Maymont with a graveside service at a later date. Condolences for the family may be left at www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME (306) 244-5577. __________________________________________________

SALLOWS & McDONALD — WILSON & ZEHNER Funeral Home

1271 - 103rd Street | North Battleford | 306-445-2418 www.sallowsandmcdonald.com “Our Services are Expressive, NOT Expensive”

We are your community leader in Unique MEMORIAL, FUNERAL and CREMATION services.

Full Service Facility Equipt. with on-site lunch room, chapel, Celebrant and Insurance Representative for all your pre-planning needs.

“Reinventing Tradition Where Heritage Meets Innovation”

2015 BBEX Customer Service Award Recipient

Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium 2741 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK 306-445-7570

Trevor Watts - Director/Owner

The Battlefords only Locally Owned Funeral Provider

“The only crematorium in the Battlefords area” Traditional Casket Burial and Cremation Services Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion Counsellor for Bronze and Granite Memorials Free pre-planning guides available, assistance with pre-planning services

www. eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca If you want to drink, that’s your business.

If you want to stop, we can help.

CALL ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 446-6166

HEISLER: Norbert John Heisler of St. Walburg passed away peacefully on January 13, 2017 at the age of 86, with his daughter, Romona by his side. Norbert was born on September 8, 1930 in Allan, Saskatchewan to Joseph and Katherine (Katie Doetzel) Heisler. While working in Valleyview, Alberta, Norbert met Julia Rice and they married on September 7, 1956. The next day they moved to their first home, Taylor Flats, B.C., where Dad was welding on the PGE railway bridge until its completion. Norbert and Julia then moved back to Livelong to help his Dad on the farm and see the birth of their first son, Larry. Shortly thereafter they moved to Fort St. John where he was employed with Tompkins Contracting with their second son, Joe being born. In 1962 they decided to move back to Livelong and make their home on the family farm 6 miles north of Livelong where they made their home until 1975. During this time Kevin and Romona were born and the family of 6 enjoyed all that farm life could offer. Winter months, Norbert would contract his welding expertise to oil production companies in the NWT and Arctic regions while Julie and the boys looked after the livestock until his return in the spring. As farming was always a passion for Norbert, he purchased the Roy Opsal farm by Livelong to continue working the land for a few more years. The farm was eventually sold and Norbert taught welding for Kelsey Institute of Applied Arts and Sciences throughout many communities of Saskatchewan, as well as welding at the Cluff Lake Uranium mine for Cameco for a number of years until layoffs retired his employment. Norbert and Julia then moved to St. Walburg to run his Welding and Repair business from 1987-1998. After this time, Norbert ran a mobile welding business until his health would no longer allow him to work as hard as he had all of his life. He finally retired in 2012. During Norbert’s life, he enjoyed many interests which include outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, playing and watching softball, and community fairs as well as restoration of antique tractors, cats and cars. By far his biggest passion was music. Most of his life he played his bass fiddle and guitar with musical bands along side many various musicians across the north/central region for many occasions including weddings, New Year’s Eve parties and functions at the nursing homes for the old folks’ enjoyment. He was known for his honesty, love for his parents, his wife, Julia and family members. His old fashioned values for respect, honesty and hard work were taught and lived by each day of his life. Only quality work was his “Gold Standard.” Norbert was pre-deceased by: his parents, Joe and Katie; his son, Joseph William Heisler; and his grandson, Jonathan Clifford Heisler. Norbert leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Julia; two sons, Larry (Ruth) of Saskatoon, and Kevin (Bev) of Livelong; his daughter, Romona (Terry) Moore of Warman; his 11 grandchildren; his 7 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Josephine (Vance) Dancy of Fort St. John, B.C. CARD OF THANKS We would like to thank all of our family, friends and neighbors for their support and caring during this time of grief. The food, flowers, visits and phone calls are all appreciated. Your thoughtfulness will never be forgotten.

Julia Heisler & Family __________________________________________________

FUNERAL SERVICES

Professional Services Provided with Heart and Compassion ROBERT MACKAY GEORGE HAEGEBAERT P.O. Box 806 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3

306-446-4200

COMING EVENTS Kelvington Trailblazers Snowmobile Derby, Feb. 4, 2017. Registration 10 a.m -noon; 60-100 miles through Porcupine Forest. Riders Only prize $1500; top hand $1000; 2017 Polaris raffle.\~ www.townofkelvington.com\~ or 306-3274482.

Whitewood Birthday Bash 2017: June 30, July 1 & 2, 2017.

Canada’s 150th & Whitewood’s 125th. Get on our contact list: Email us at whitewoodbirthdaybash2017@gmail.com

Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 11

IN MEMORIAM

FOR SALE - MISC

In Remembrance

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Hip or knee replacement?

Yearly Credit

Rebecca “Becky” Ann Kost May 20, 1958-Jan. 31, 2016

It has been one year.

Becky, we are ever so grateful to have had you in our lives, and you are forever loved and profoundly missed.

Your loving family

Blanket Classifieds are carried in 79 community newspapers, which reach over 450 communities including 14 cities.

P: 306-649-1405 E: classifieds@swna.com W: www.swna.com The Strength is in Community Newspapers!

WANTED

In Loving Memory of

Donald Smith

April 6, 1943 - Feb. 2, 2016

All wild fur - coyotes, etc. Shed antlers and racks. Old traps. Call Bryon 306-278-7756 or Phil 306278-2299.

Collector looking for pennies, nickels, silver coins and paper currency. 306-226-4646

LIVESTOCK

To hear your voice and see your smile To sit with you and talk awhile, To be together in the same old way Would be our greatest wish today.

Forever in our hearts Jeannie and Family

Black and Red Yearling and 2yr. old Angus Bulls on moderate growing ration - performance info available. Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards.

Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK. Phone 306-441-0946 or 306-3424407. www.valleyhillsangus.com Nordal Limousin & Angus Bull Sale Feb. 16 Saskatoon Livestock Sales Saskatoon Selling 20 Limousin 60 Red & Black Angus 2 yr.olds. delivery & board available.Catalogue @ www.nordallimousin.com Rob Garner Simpson Sk. 306 946 7946

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Yellowhead Modular Home Sales New Canadian built modular homes!

FOR SALE - MISC 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.

HARDY TREE, SHRUB, and berry seedlings delivered. Order online at www.treetime.ca or call 1-866873-3846. New growth guaranteed.

Guaranteed lowest prices plus early purchase incentives.

$20,000

Lump Sum Refund The Disability Credit Service. Lowest rate in the industry.

For reliable expert service CALL

FINANCIAL SERVICES Need A Loan? Own Property?

Have Bad Credit? We can help!

Call toll free 1 866 405 1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

35 lines

HOUSES FOR SALE North Battleford Triplex with garage - $229,900. 8% cap rate. 3 suites - $1000, $875, $650/month single net. $30,300 Potential Gross Income. Call 306-937-5073

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES North - 10 1/4’s North East - 14 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 57 1/4’s West - 50 1/4’s Central - 219 1/4’s South - 100 1/4’s South East - 46 1/4’s South West - 65 1/4’s PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca

Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM

Beekeepers Wanted for the upcoming 2017 beekeeping season (April to November) in rural Battleford area. Wages start at $11.00/hr. Willing to train applicants, but experience would be an asset. Job requires heavy lifting, applicants must be physically fit and possess a good work ethic.

Please reply to Stuhoney@yahoo.com or fax 306 937 2095, attention Stuart

Western Commodities

Two bedroomed condo near the hospital available for immediate occupancy suitable for one or two occupants. Rent includes Sasktel Max and internet, heat and water and 5 appliances building rquipped with elevator and spacious lounge + Kitchen. Call 306446-0273 or 306-490-8140.

877-695-6461 Visit our website @

www.westerncommodities.ca

HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

- GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!!

- BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!!

HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

SUITES FOR RENT 2 bedroom basement suite for rent. 1632 101st street. Fridge and stove and W/D. References required. Call 306-446-8866 or 306441-1554.

1-844-453-5372

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

FEED & SEED

2 Executive Town Home’s on Foley Drive, One available immediately and the other available March 1st. Total Reno’s, No Pets, No Children. Call to view 306-2287940 or 306-481-2836.

Problems walking or getting dressed? The Canadian Government may owe you a:

$2,500 REACH OVER 500,000 Saskatchewan Readers Each Week!

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT

AUTO MISCELLANEOUS Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks. Lots of trucks...

Dodge... GMC... Ford... Imports...

1/2 ton to 3 tons... We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260.

Lloydminster.

RENTALS & LEASES Land for Lease 137 acres of alfalfa to be cut and baled with the option that cattle can be grazed after, with remaining 20 acres of grass, pasture, water SW Sec 22 46 14 W3 RM of Round Hill For more information and Terms call: 446-2379 or 480-4145 All offers need to be submitted by February 28th 2017 to: 882-111th St. North Battleford, Sask. S9A 2K1

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available.

Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Town of Foam Lake seeks to fill the position of: Chief Administrative Officer. Must have Urban Standard or Class “C” Certification and previous experience in municipal administration.

For more information: foamlaketown@sasktel.net. 306-272-3359

CAREER TRAINING

Heavy Equipment Operator Program

HEALTH SERVICES

Receive Powered Mobile Equipment (PME) certification and learn heavy equipment operations through municipal projects and state-of-the-art CAT simulation training.

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - Attention Saskatchewan residents: Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessment

FEED & SEED NORTH EAST PRAIRIE GRAIN INC. Currently Buying: Soybeans, Feed Barley, Wheat and Oats.

OFFERING: Competitive Prices, On Farm Pickup & Prompt Payment! CALL: 1-306873-3551, WEBSITE: neprairiegrain.com

The program is offered in Warman from April 24 to June 2, 2017 and August 21 to September 29, 2017.

NutraSun Foods Ltd of Regina wants to buy your Organic Hard Red Spring and Conventional Hard White Wheat. Please contact Abe Ens at 306-751-2440.

Call (306) 242-5377 or visit greatplainscollege.ca for details.

If you want to drink, that’s your business.

If you want to stop, we can help.

CALL ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

446-6166

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

New floor plans for 2017 Single wide, Multi Sections, Lake House, Motel Units

Custom Orders Welcome We sell & service homes across Western Canada, On Site Consultation.

Weekend calls Personalized Service

306-496-7538

www.yellowheadmodularhomesales.ca HWY #16 West of Yorkton (Sheho, SK.)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Professional

WANTED

D I R E C T O R Y SWANSON GRYBA & COMPANY

Chartered Professional Accountants 1282 - 101st Street North Battleford, Sask.

Telephone 306-445-0488 Facsimile 306-446-3155 -PARTNERSGarth Swanson, CPA, CA Greg Gryba, CPA, CA

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

300 - 1291 102nd Street North Battleford, SK, S9A 3V4

Phone: 306-445-6234 Fax: 306-445-0245 PARTNERS

Dale L. Cameron, CPA, CA Suzanne L. Odishaw, CPA, CA Jacques la Cock, CPA, CA Derek Sieben, CPA, CA Stephen Mann, CPA, CA

Let Us Help You Keep Your Business Rolling!

PLACE YOUR AD ON THIS PAGE

CALL 306-445-7261

Fax: 306-445-1977 Email: newsoptimist.sales@sasktel.net

Route 50A

4th Ave., Janet Drive, Riverbend Cresent, All of 38th Street • 112 papers •

Route 53

29th Street - 200 - 400 Block 30th Street - 200 - 400 Block • 93 papers •

Route 57

All 23rd Street, All 24th Street

• 66 papers •

Route 63

Battlesprings Way, Battleriver Place, Battleford Place, Battlesprings Lane, Battlespring Place, Battlespring Dr., Battlesprings Cove

• 81 papers •

FOR MORE DETAILS CALL CHUCK Monday to Friday ~ 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

at 306-445-7261 OR Leave Message if after hours or weekends

892-104th Street, North Battleford, SK

306-445-7261

PAGE 12 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

COMING EVENTS

Visit our website

www.newsoptimist.ca for more community events

Community Events Calendar ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Please call our 24 hour helpline at 306-446-6166 for support or information.

Tuesdays

Battlefords Humane Society Chase the Ace Diamond in the Ruff Lottery.

Tickets $5 each or 3 for $10. Weekly winner gets 20% of that week’s sales plus CHANCE TO WIN 30% progressive jackpot! Tickets must be purchased weekly to WIN! Don’t miss a draw - weekly subscriptions available. All proceeds to Shelter-Us Building Fund. Draws every Tuesday morning, 9:00 a.m., Lakeland Vet Clinic. Call The Shelter for more details 306-937-MEOW (6369). Lottery licence LR15-0091.

Wednesdays, January 18 - March 29

Time for Tots at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 a.m. at the North Battleford Library. Come and enjoy 30 minutes of simple stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 18 months to 3 years and their parents or caregivers.

Thursdays, January 19 - March 30

LEGO Club at the North Battleford Library from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Join our Kids Lego Club where you can create, build and use your imagination.

Lego provided.

Fridays, January 20 - March 31

Tales and More at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 a.m. Come and enjoy 45 minutes of stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 3 to 5 years.

Friday, February 3

Borden School Book Fair in the school gym from noon - 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, February 5

Borden Library Free Movie Matinee at the Seniors Room at 2:00 p.m.

Snacks for sale.

Monday, February 6

Bad Art Night at the North Battleford Library at 7:00 p.m. A freestyle craft event for adults and teens. We’ll provide the ridiculous craft and art material, you make the bad art. Leave your good taste at home and let your creativity run free. The ‘worst’ peace of art will win a hideously tacky trophy and bragging rights.

Tuesday, February 7

Borden Museum’s Hot Roast Beef Lunch in the Senior’s Room from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Borden Museum’s annual meeting at 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, February 9

Valentine Luncheon at St. Joseph Hall, 1942 - 96th Street from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Homemade soup, biscuit & dessert.

Friday, February 10

Free Legal Clinic for Alberta and Saskatchewan residents at the Provincial Court of Alberta, Provincial Building, 5124 - 50 Street, Lloydminster, Alberta from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Call toll free 1-877-314-9129 to book an appointment by Monday, February 6.

Saturday, February 11

Valentine’s Day Tea & Bake Sale at Battleford United Church at 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 11

Parks & Rec Board Bowling Tournament - Borden Action Bowl, 4 person teams, 45 minutes games. 8:00 a.m. and finals at 6:00 p.m. Call 306-9972134 for information.

Tuesday, February 14

Borden’s Telemiracle Tea and Bake Sale in the Senior’s Room at 2:00 p.m. By donation.

Wednesday, February 15

Borden Cash Bingo in the Borden Senior’s Room at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 15

Embark on a journey with Barbara Plews as she shares her travel stories from her visit to Normandy and Guernsey at the North Battleford Library at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 18

Club 70 Dance - Harry Startup at the Royal Canadian Legion, 1352 100th Street, North Battleford from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. Lunch service at 12:00 p.m. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, February 18

Green Screen Fun - Come and play with our new green screen and see yourself in ways you never imagined at the North Battleford Library from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. for all ages.

Saturday, February 18

2nd Annual Murray Lake Fishing Derby at Murray Lake. Registration from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. fishing from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Tickets available at Whiterock Gas & Confectionery, Hwy 4 North, North Battleford 306445-8444. Major prizes & 50/50 draws.

Tuesday, February 21

Kaiser Tournament in the Borden Senior’s Room at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 25

Orolow Church Snowmobile Rally staring at 11:00 a.m. Call Peter at 306-997-5703 for information.

Monday, February 27

North Battleford Library Adult Book Club at the North Battleford Library from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Join us for a discussion of being mortal: medicine and what matters in the end by Atul Gawande.

Tuesday, February 28

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper in the Senior’s Room from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. - by donation. Hosted by Borden Anglican & United Church.

Saturday, March 4

Snowmobile Rally at the Borden Community Centre at 11:00 a.m. Chili lunch and ham supper. Sponsored by Radisson Senior Hockey Club.

This section, which will appear weekly in Tuesday's News-Optimist and Thursday’s Regional Optimist, is provided free-of-charge to non-profit organizations. To list the Community Calendar please call News-Optimist at 306-445-7261 or fax the information to 306-445-3223. Please provide complete information including event, time, date and location. Although we will do our utmost to make sure your event appears in this section, News-Optimist does not guarantee all submissions will appear.

Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m.

Thursday prior for Tuesday's & Thursday’s publication.

Across NO. 757 PUZZLE 1. Jail, slangily 33.Aretha 10.Zilch 4. Concrete section Franklin hit 11.Snow coaster 8. Chap 36.Snare 12. 1/500 of the India19.Cut one’s napolis 500 37.Bar molars 13. Au ___ 39.Trait carriers 21.Spiders’ 14. Met expectations?

41.Turn over structures 16. Doing nothing quickly 17. Halo, e.g.

22.Angel’s 42.Camp 18. Romance, e.g. headgear 19. Demands helper, e.g.

23.Like some 21. Medical advice, of43.Foal ten cheese 45.Prayer 23. Copper 25.Song concluder 24. Arid 28.Commits 49.Brewery 25. Kind of column (2 perjury wds) beverage 27. “Dig in!”

29.Skilled 50.Prosecute 29. Drudgery 30.Army eatery 51.Wish 30. Carry on 31. Favorite 34. A structure devoted to something holy Copyright © 2015, Penny Press 37. Exclusive 28.Take it find ACROSS 38.

Egg cells on the ____ 1. Grimace Judge’s 39.

55.Dogs and 40. concern Slang term for AI31.Made holy cats 41.

Cut short 5. Signal assent 32.Clan 56.Fountain 42. Aged 8.

Has ____ 34.Turf 43. Bed board ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 757 12.Draft 35.Stags and 72. Be nosy 57.Young adult 29. 20-20, e.g.

54. Kennel sound 45.

Wastesanimals time 30.

Ale holder 55. Cooking meas. bucks 13.Hot temper 47.

“Fancy that!”

Down 31.

A vote 56. “B.C.” cartoonist 48.

Best seller 38.Foot parts 14.Moderately DOWN 1.

Autumn drink 32.

Axis of ___ 57. ___ vera 49. Can coldof worms? 39.Polite chap 1. Shy 2.

Back street 33.

A little night music 59. Back talk 50. Barbie’s beau 15.Decade unit 2.

Woodsman’s 40.Winding 3.

Call for 34.

E.P.A. concern 61. Door fastener 51. When repeated, like curves implement 16.Short-term job 4.

Marienbad, for one 35.

Burrow 63. “Are we there ___?” some shows 5.

Any tree of the genus 36.

“How ___!”

65. “Much ___ About 41.Coin side 3.

Caribbean, 52.

Handful 17.Pine ____ Laurus 37.

Boozehound Nothing” 55.

Asian tongue e.g.

44.Hobo 18.Alternate 6.

Broadcast 40.

Dracula, at times 58. Boris Godunov, 46.MGM’s for 4. Registers 20.Got the best 7. Bikini parts 41. Mouse catcher one trademark 5.

Close, once of 8.

Joke 43. “Ain’t ___ Sweet” 60. Safari sight 47.Glass part 6.

Adjust to 21.Largest 9.

At attention 44. Fluff 62. When Harry met 10.

Opening time, maybe 45. Convened surroundings mammal 48.Effortless _____ 11.

Mountain pool 46. Ticket info, maybe 64.

“Mi chiamano 7. Unit of heat 24.Close 52.Resting 12.

Attention metallic elMimi,” 8. Happen 49. Whitish, 26.Balde.g. bird 53.Act15.like Undertake, CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS with ement 66. A chorus line USEto AMERICAN SPELLING 27.Half of twenty 9.

Dates 54.Detective’s “out” 50.

Ovens bake pot67. Inclined 20. Sometime today, say tery 68. Gulf war missile 22. Be a snitch 51. Tough, durable wood 69. Bondman 26.

Pandowdy, e.g.

52. Secretary, at times 70. Makeup, e.g.

28.

Affirmative vote 53. Admittance 71. Jerk

Puzzle Solution

Building, exercising negotiation skills Building and exercising your negotiation skills is much like building and exercising your body.

After lots of exercises and working out you think you are in shape.

Then an occasion arises that forces you to start using those lesserused muscles and, Whoa, where’s the deep heating rub?

How can an Olympic weightlifter possibly race with a sprinter? How does the sprinter compete in bench pressing?

They’re both athletes, they both train hard and they both develop their bodies. Yet they still come from different worlds.

So it is with negotiations. We can’t be negotiating (or even arguing) in a different world from the other party. We need to find commonality, starting from a position of at least understanding each other’s position.

We don’t have to agree, but we still need to ap-

THE

Negotiator

By Pete Desrochers preciate the perspective of others if we hope to influence them to thinking our way. Others will only listen to us if we listen to them and can react intel-

ligently to their positions or concerns.

So the first dispute resolution muscles we have to work on are those skills that keep us fully focused.

Those skills are silence and listening.

More bluntly stated, “shut up.” Many arguments are won when you stop opening your mouth.

That’s a lot harder than we realize. Can you sense the pending ache of those unused muscles that are about to get a workout?

We’ll talk about the use of “strategic silence” in a future column. As for “strategic listening, it is an incredibly powerful tool once you learn to master it.

Picturesque

—­Photo by Louise Lundberg

Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 13

A perhaps unexpected of giving to others The commercials on television often provide simple answers to life’s problems. Buy this gadget, and meal preparation will be easy. Take these pills, and your health problem will go away. Owning this car will make your life exciting and fun.

But a moment’s thought will show such claims are too simplistic, and unrealistic. Their path to a better life is strewn with problems of its own.

How many gadgets have you bought that didn’t perform as advertised, or broke after only a few uses? And did you ever listen to the long list of possible side effects that are slipped into the drug commercials? Some of them fatal!

On the other hand, there sometimes are simple answers. One time, our car broke down, and I took it in to a mechanic.

He tried this and that – even replacing the car’s computer unit – without success. Hundreds of dollars were spent, and a lot of time consumed, but the problem remained.

Finally, in frustration, I took the car to another mechanic – one who had actually been trained in the factory where the car was produced. He laughed, and said, “Oh, that’s easy to fix.” And he did – with a part costing $1.65!

With regard to our spiritual lives, at times evangelical Christians are accused of “easy believism.” The kind of gospel invitation that sounds much like the commercials mentioned earlier. “Trust Jesus and your problems will be over.” But if we do give that impression, we’re not representing the message of the Bible fairly.

Look at how many godly saints suffered. Job, Moses and David, each men of faith, endured great trials, often because of their allegiance to God. Paul, a dedicated follower of Christ, lived a life of almost constant hardship and persecution. (II Cor. 11:23-28). Believers struggle with many of the same problems unbelievers do, sometimes more.

But we have a resource to turn to today, that can give strength in times of testing (Phil. 4:6-7, 19), and assures us of a better tomorrow (Phil. 1:22-23; Rev. 21:4).

There is a spiritual principle of blessing the Bible presents, which may sound naive and simplistic, but it works. I, and countless others, have proven it to be so. The principle, in a nutshell, is that there is gain in giving. When we serve others, we are blessed in a special way ourselves. “He who gives

Robert Cottrill, B.A., B.R.E. http://wordwisehymns.com/ www.Wordwise‐Bible‐Studies.com

to the poor will not lack.”

(Prov. 28:27) “Give, and it will be given to you,” said the Lord Jesus. (Lk. 6:38) This is illustrated by an experience of the prophet Elijah (I Kgs. 17:8-16). At God’s direction, during a

time of famine, he visited a poor widow. She had only enough food left to provide one more meal for herself and her son.

But the prophet asked her to feed him first, promising, “Thus says the Lord

The heart of love Yesterday I attended the funeral of a woman from our community. Although I did not know her personally, some of her children, daughters-inlaw and grandchildren are friends. During the course of the service, much was said of her commitment to Christ and of a lifestyle characterized by faith.

Growing up in a solid Canadian prairie Mennonite background, I wrongly assumed she was born with a “work hard” gene

firmly implanted in her DNA. In a beautiful but fun-filled tribute to their grandmother, one of her grandsons told of how as a child she would hide in the outhouse with a book, trying to avoid detection and household chores.

Another story the same grandson avers has never

God of Israel: ‘The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the Lord sends rain on the earth.’” (vs. 14) And so it was. In obeying the Lord, and providing for His servant, she was abundantly blessed herself.

Elizabeth Rundle Charles (1828-96) was a gifted musician, painter and author in England.

She wrote a hymn in 1859, based on the experience of Elijah, and illustrating the giving-is-gain principle.

Her hymn says: “Is thy cruse of comfort failing?

before been revealed, involved his distaste for trigonometry. Seems a particular assignment was the last hurdle to overcome. By failing to successfully complete that work, he would fail the course and be required to re-take it.

Grandma heard about it and being a woman who cared deeply about the feelings of her offspring, she paid another grandson to complete the work. He got $20 out of the deal and the errant child didn’t have to repeat trigonometry.

Say what you will about the wisdom of such a move, it removed a lot of

/ Rise and share it with a friend! / And through all the years of famine / It shall serve thee to the end. / Love divine will fill thy storehouse, / Or thy handful still renew; / Scanty fare for one will often / Make a royal feast for two.

“For the heart grows rich in giving: / All its wealth is living grain; / Seeds–which mildew in the garner– / Scattered, fill with gold the plain. / Is thy burden hard and heavy? / Do thy steps drag wearily? / Help to lift thy brother’s burden– / God will bear both it and thee.”

stress from a teenager’s life. For those in attendance, the revelation of that long-held secret also provided a lot of laughter.

Attending that funeral made me think seriously about what people will have to say at my celebration of life. There are things I’m proud of, things I wish I’d not done or done differently and things I’d like to have accomplished but never did. Above all, though, I long to leave a legacy of personal integrity and faithfulness to God. “… but the prudent man (or woman) considers well his steps …”

Proverbs 14:15

PAGE 14 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Consider dining on your flower garden Winter on the prairies can be long, cold and dreary. It is nice to do something to make the year extra special. Why not brighten up your day – and you diet and eat some flowers? They brighten up any meal and even add some extra nutrition. Better yet, if you really want to impress your dinner guests then flowers added to the meal itself will be admired by absolutely everyone.

There are actually a huge variety of flowers that are edible, but as with any new addition to your diet, make the change gradual.

As well, it is extremely important to ensure any flowers you consume have not been sprayed with pesticide. Choose organically grown products if you are purchasing flowers for consumption rather than growing your own. Last but definitely not least, ensure you only consume those parts of the plants that you are sure are edible.

Bee balm or bergamot is a great addition to any type of salad. The flavor is citrusy often with an underlying hint of mint. The flowers are as exquisite in a salad as they are in the garden, but don’t be afraid to also use the leaves. If you like Earl Gray Tea, you are sure to enjoy munching on the delicate petals of bee balm.

Borage is a beautiful

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Hanbidge on Horticulture

by Patricia Hanbidge

Saskatoon School of Horticulture plant with the lovely blue, star-shaped flowers. The blossoms are spectacular in appearance and can be candied easily. However, my favourite use for the blossoms of bee balm is to float them in punches or chilled soups.

I have fond memories of using calendula in a multitude of ways. While my children were growing up, and we were living in the country, we would go to the garden to pick what we needed for a salad. Inevitably, we would come back with a number of flowers, but especially calendula, as they were so plentiful.

Back in those days, coming to our house for supper was a unique experience. After all where else could you consume flowers as part of the regular evening meal?

Calendula has a spicy, tangy taste that is lovely in soups, on pasta or rice, in salads or even in scrambled eggs.

The petals of carnations are really quite sweet as long as you cut away the bitter white base. They are great in salads and make great cake decorations.

Related to the carnation is one of my least favourite perennials – Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis).

In one of the books I was writing my publisher wanted to include this selection as a recommended perennial to grow. We decided not to include it as no matter how hard I tried I could not say too much that was good about it. Included in my advice was that the best thing gardener’s could do with this plant was to eat it. The flowers are a bit bitter but look nice in a green salad.

Another favourite flower of mine is the nasturtium. They come in brilliant colours and have a

mild peppery taste. I love them in the garden as they are so very versatile and as an addition to the diet they are simply marvelous.

Use them in salads; as appetizers served with a soft cheese or as a delectable stuffed (but delicate) blossoms. The seeds are also great pickled and can be used in place of capers.

I would be remiss if I did not include orchids as an edible flower. My first experience eating orchids was at a very large and very posh reception in Texas. It almost seems a shame to eat an orchid flower as they last as a bloom or as a cut flower for such a long time. However, it was an experience. The flavour was sweet with a slight underlying taste somewhat like chives. It did give me an idea for a splendid joke to play on one of my favourite people in the world. My mother, who is an orchid fanatic (sorry, I mean grower), cherishes the blooms that she studiously grows. As a joke, I purchased an orchid and timed consuming it just as she walked into her orchid greenhouse. Needless to say, she was horrified to see me munching on what she thought was one of her precious orchids! She declined joining me in my gastronomic experience.

I hope that you have enjoyed this gardening/ culinary jaunt. May 2017 bless you with the added enjoyment of growing, displaying and eating your flowers!

— Hanbidge is a horticulturist with the Saskatoon School of Horticulture and can be reached at 306-931-GROW(4769); by email at growyourfuture@ gmail.com or check out our website at saskhort. com.

www.newsoptimist.ca Don’t miss these online columns arden Chat

anbidge on Horticulture

By Patricia Hanbidge

1-866-549-9979 Fax: 306-445-1977

Email: val@newsoptimist.ca

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Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - PAGE 15

Venus a bright spotlight in the southern sky The moon is midway between new and first quarter as February begins, with Mars just two degrees above it Feb. 1.

The dwarf planet Ceres is occulted on the evening Feb. 2 for viewers in northern Canada and Alaska.

As happens often during 2017, Feb. 5 an occultation of Aldebaran in Taurus is visible in Central and South America, and parts

By James Edgar of the Eastern Hemisphere.

The moon is full Feb. 11,

No Socks? No Thanks!

By Janet Beaubien

I think of them every time I put my bare feet in Robin Hood boots that really don’t fit, when in January I go out to brush snow off my car, a drift obliterating the street: Bobby Orr and Gretzky no socks feet in skates; warm toes in warm skates.

Surely those skates weren’t carried by laces over a shoulder and put on cold feet while kids sat on a snow bank by a slough, a river, canal?

Wasn’t it a backyard rink made by dad his hands a pain study when he came in?

I don’t know and even if it was both those guys wore no socks, the door’s blown open as I’ve brushed, the front door that won’t latch right at this low temp, and my boots off, those slippers are gonna be ice.

marking another occultation, for the far south, of the star Regulus.

A penumbral eclipse occurs on this date, but North America is entirely missed. These occultations are close grazes for other viewers. Feb. 15, Jupiter snuggles up to Luna in the early eastern dawn.

Likewise, Feb. 20, Saturn is about four degrees away.

And, as would be expected, two weeks after a lunar eclipse, a solar eclipse occurs Feb. 26, when the moon comes between the Earth and the sun. This one is in some of the most uninhabited areas on Earth – the eastern South Pacific, southern South America, the southern Atlantic and ending in Africa.

Mercury is seen in the eastern morning sky throughout most of the month, until it rounds close to the sun and gets lost in

—­Photo by Louise Lundberg

its glare. Better viewing for the Southern Hemisphere than the north.

Venus continues as the bright spotlight in the southern sky before sundown, brightening to its greatest illuminated extent Feb. 17. As it gains on the Earth, a telescopic view shows it as a thin crescent, but very bright.

Mars shares the stage with Venus throughout the entire month, just to the left of the bright planet. Venus gradually moves away from the ruddy Mars is it speeds through its orbit.

Jupiter rises in the east

around midnight and crosses the sky until dawn’s light obliterates the gas giant. Jupiter begins retrograde motion, appearing to move westward against the starry background, caused by the Earth moving more quickly in its orbit – a difficult concept for ancient astronomers who thought the Earth was the centre of the universe. Watch for the nearby moon Feb. 15.

Saturn has been drawing away from the sun during January, now rising in the southeast a couple of hours before sunrise.

Watch for the moon close

by Feb. 20 as noted above.

Uranus is low in the west, following Mars and Venus as they set. The three objects are within a binocular view in the days surrounding Febr. 25, the closest approach.

Neptune is so close to the sun as to be invisible through the entire month.

The Zodiacal Light is visible in the western evening sky for the last two weeks of February.

— James Edgar has had an interest in the night sky all his life. He joined the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2000.

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PAGE 16 - Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Slug-resistant hostas?

By Sara Williams

If last summer was any indication of what the coming summer holds for us, slugs may be included.

Especially, if our spring, summer or fall is humid and rainy.

On the more optimistic side, the cold temperatures experienced earlier this winter when we had little insulating snow cover, might mean the slugs (alas, along with your favourite strawberries) may be fewer in number.

When you read the term “resistant,” it doesnt mean immune. Like deer, if slugs are high enough in number, and the weather suits them, theyll eat just about anything. But given a choice, they are less likely to eat the hostas listed below.

Why are these less palatable to slugs? Because their foliage is thicker, more textured and leathery. Slugs, like people, dont like their meals overly tough.

Slugs are best described as a snail without a shell.

They are hermaphroditic, each having both male and female parts. But in order to produce fertile eggs, an individual must mate with another slug. Slugs are cream-coloured brown or black and generally less than an inch long. They are coated in mucus that pre-

vents moisture loss, facilitates movement, and leaves “slime trails.” They also leave large irregular holes in the leaves of your favourite plants.

Hostas are grown mainly for the striking green, blue, gold or bi-coloured foliage. Their lovely flowers, generally blooming in August, should not be undervalued. Place hostas in full or partial shade in well drained soil into which generous amounts of organic matter has been incorporated. Keep them evenly moist. Mulch with four inches of post peelings to conserve moisture, reduce weeding and deter slugs. Their tender bodies are easily lacerated by the coarse post peelings leading to dehydration and death.

Slug Control Before planting, carefully inspect new plants for slugs or their eggs. Check the pots as well as the soil.

If possible, use drip irrigation to keep the soil surface dry. Handpicking slugs works if carried out

with determination and consistency at dawn or dusk. Drop the slugs into a container of soapy water. Slugs will collect under boards where its cool, dark and damp. Check them every morning with your pail of soapy water in hand. Lure slugs with a “beerless” beer trap made of yeast, sugar and water in a saucer at soil level. Once drowned, drink a real beer to your trapping success.

Use slug baits containing iron phosphate that inhibits their ability to eat, causing death within a day or two.

Apply diatomaceous earth.

A few of the “slug-resistant” hostas: Halcyon - 40 x 60 centimetres, heavily ribbed blue foliage and violet flowers.

Hadspen Blue - 30 x 60 centimetres, medium size, intensely blue, heartshaped leaves with bellshaped lavender flowers.

June - 25 x 50 centimetres, medium hosta with oval to lance-shaped bluish-green leaves with a yellow centre and white flowers.

Great Expectations - 60 x 70 centimetres, golden leaves with a wide blue margin and white flowers.

Blue Umbrellas - 90 x 100 centimetres, large hosta with glacous blue leaves that curve downward and white flowers.

Slugs are a fact of life, and they can make a mess of some of our favourite plants like shade-loving hostas. Photo submitted

Invincible - 30 x 60 centimetres, wedge-shaped green leaves and lavender flowers.

Krossa Regal - 75 x 100 centimetres, large, wavyedged bluish green leaves with funnel-shaped lavender flowers.

Sum and Substance - 75 x 150 centimetres, enormous greenish-gold leaves and white flowers.

Abiqua Drinking Gourd - 45 x 80 centimetres, medium sized plant with

frosty blue, cupped leaves and white flowers; 2014 Hostas of the Year.

Big Daddy - 75 x 120 centimetres, large, deep blue leaves with white flowers.

Sara is the author of numerous gardening books, among them the revised Creating the Prairie Xeriscape. And with Hugh Skinner: Gardening Naturally; Trees and Shrubs for the Prairies, and Groundcovers & Vines for the

Prairies. Expect Fruit for Northern Gardens with Bob Bors in November 2017.

— This column is provided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (www.saskperennial.ca; hortscene@yahoo.com; www.facebook. com/saskperennial). Check out our Bulletin Board or Calendar for upcoming garden information sessions, workshops, tours and other events.

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