Annie Peyachew statue ceremony held at Central Park
“I am thankful for the spirit of this ceremony because it helps us all learn” Mayor Hawtin
By Averil Hall Freelance Reporter/ Photographer
A dedication ceremony and plaque unveiling for the Annie Peyachew statue took place at Central Park on the morning of Monday, September 22. Jason Chamakese of Pelican Lake First Nation was the master of ceremonies.
Annie Peyachew, from the Red Pheasant First Nation, attended the Battleford Industrial School, which operated from 1883 to 1914 about two kilometers south of Battleford. She was given student number 0139 and died at the age of seven on October 3, 1911. She is buried with others in the Battleford Industrial School cemetery.
The program began with Senator Jenny Spyglass giving a prayer in Cree. She spoke about her family ties to the Peyachew family and her experience of losing her language at residential school.
Poundmaker Drumming performed for the attendees. Sherron Burns of the Battlefords Industrial School Commemorative Association (BISCA) delivered the land acknowledgment, noting that people often leave gifts on the statue of Annie, including food, toys, and clothing in the winter.
Chamakese shared that his grandparents had avoided residential school by hiding their children and said he was thankful not to have had that experience.
Continued on page 3
Battleford set for new highway turning lanes, safety upgrades
By SaskToday staff
BATTLEFORDS — Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill announced that beginning this week, resi -
dents of the town of Battleford will notice construction starting on right-hand turning lanes at Highway 4, both at 22nd Street and 29th Street.
Later this fall, if weather permits, work will also begin on a new left-hand turning lane off Highway 16 onto Hereford Street.
“Many people will re -
member the fatal accident at this intersection last September, where we lost an individual who served many in our community,” said Cockrill on Facebook.
“Thank you to the many individuals and businesses who have helped advocate for this intersection improvement.”
Continued on page 2
Senator Jenny Spyglass and Elder Gladys Greyeyes with their star quilts and the statue of Annie Peyachew. | Photo by Averil Hall
1291 -101st Street |POBox460 NorthBattleford,SKS9A2Y6
Battleford set for new highway turning lanes, safety upgrades
CityofNorth Battleford(Official) @citynb
cityofnb.ca 306-445-1700
Continued from page 1 He said the estimated $1.3 million investment by the province “will help make these intersections safer for both passenger and commercial traffic.”
Physicalcopiesof October1 City utilitybillswillnot be mailedout due tothepostalstrike. st
HELPFULHINT
Signupfore-billingandtextreminders toreceive yourutilitybillinginfo.It’llhelpyoumeetpayment deadlinesand avoidlatepaymentfees. Utilitypaymentdeadlinesremainthesame. YoucanalsocontactCityHallat306-445-1700 for utilityaccountdetails. www.cityofnb.ca
“The Ministry of Highways is excited to see local contractor G&C Asphalt doing this work,” added Cockrill.
“Please remember to slow down in construction zones and be patient while work is ongoing.”
Town of Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie said he is grateful to the Ministry of Highways for the investment.
“Council advocated for these turning lanes and our Saskatchewan Party listened,” he said on Facebook. “Very much appreciated.”
“I was at the elevator the day of the fatal collision and remember the impact it had on our staff, customers and community,” he added. “So the addition of this turning lane at Hereford Street will be a significant investment to keep many safe for years to come. Thank you Jeremy Cockrill and the Government of Saskatchewan for the investment in the Battlefords.”
TheChapelGallery isopen11:00am- 5:00pm DailyUntilSeptember29th and12:00PM-4:00PM, Wed-Sun BeginningOctober1st.
DOOR#1, DONROSSCENTRE, NORTHBATTLEFORD,SK
InMemory of In Memory AllenSapp Friday, October17th2025, Friday,October17th2025, 7:00PM-Midnight AttheDonRossCentreGym Door#6,89199thSt. NorthBattleford Everyoneis welcome! Formoreinfor mation, calltheAllenSappGallery at(306)445-1760 Thankyouto Monday, WednesdayorFriday9–10:00am
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North Battleford to buy $27K LED giant Christmas tree for Rotary Plaza
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH
BATTLEFORD
— North Battleford city council gave its approval to purchase a Christmas tree for Rotary Plaza at the InnovationPlex complex in North Battleford.
Administration asked for council’s approval to allocate up to $27,000 from the 2025 operations budget, out of the decorative lighting budget, for the purchase of a 21-foot metallic Christmas tree for holiday lighting at Rotary Plaza.
It will be purchased this
year for arrival in 2026.
City manager Randy Patrick said the Rotary Plaza area is underutilized, so the city would like to use it better. The tree will help with that effort.
“This is a start,” he said.
Mayor Kelli Hawtin said the tree purchase will help bring more activity to Rotary Plaza.
“Basically, it’s a beautiful LED Christmas tree that the Parks and Rec team will be able to put on Rotary Plaza,” she said.
She added that administration has found funds in the decorative lighting budget
for this year to go ahead and make that purchase.
“Really, Rotary Plaza at the InnovationPlex is kind of an underutilized recreational area in the city,” said Hawtin. “So part of this is: let’s put a tree there. Let’s create an environment where we can maybe get more use out of that space.
“This summer we had our Canada Day celebrations on Rotary Plaza,” Hawtin added. “We’re trying to have more use of that space because it’s a great community gathering area. So this will hopefully help to open up some winter use.”
North Battleford prepares for 2026 budget deliberations
By SaskToday.ca NORTH BATTLEFORD
— The City of North Battleford is getting ready to hold its deliberation meetings on city administration’s proposed 2026 budget.
On Sept. 15, the 2026 capital budget requests from administration were presented.
Next, on Oct. 20, the community (third party) delegations will make their requests.
On Nov. 13 and 27, and Dec. 1, the budget deliberation meetings will be held.
Finally, on Dec. 8, city council will have an opportunity to approve the proposed 2026 budget.
The city still has to an-
nounce the meeting times. All meetings will be open to the public.
According to the city’s Facebook page, agenda packages and Zoom login details will be available before each meeting on the city’s website. Meetings will be held at council chambers at the Don Ross Centre.
Jeremy Cockrill as shown at his campaign office in October 2024. | Photo by Angela Brown
North Battleford city hall. | Photo by Averil Hall
Annie Peyachew statue ceremony held at Central Park
Continued from Page 1
He emphasized the importance of remembering Indigenous history without blame. He then introduced artist Lionel Peyachew, Annie’s relative and creator of the statue.
Artist Lionel Peyachew, associate professor at First Nations University of Canada and a member of the Red Pheasant FN said he was moved by the community support and spoke of his own residential school experiences. He explained that the project, which began eight years ago, was meant to educate rather than focus on painful memories. He said he was really touched when Ben Feist, Eleanor Sunchild and Leah Garvin came to him to ask him to do a sculpture to commemorate residential schools. He also gave thanks to Sherron Burns, Alvin Baptiste, Senator and his Kookum Jenny Spyglass, and the Battleford Industrial School Commemorative association and described how he consulted family members to create an image that best represented Annie.
Peyachew and Alvin Baptiste unveiled the plaque while Chamakese played the flute. Heather Hochbaum, recently retired from ARC Studios, presented quilts from Quilts for Survivors to Elder Gladys Greyeyes from Thunderchild FN, Senator Jenny Spyglass from Red Pheasant FN, Melvin Sapp from Little Pine FN and Lionel Peyachew.
Dignitaries Mayor Kelli Hawtin and Mayor Ames Leslie both spoke. Hawtin said “I am thankful for the spirit of this ceremony because it helps us all learn” She thanked the sponsors, the government of Canada, Battleford Industrial School Commemorative Association, City of North Battleford, Innovation Federal Credit Union, Sunchild Law, Living Sky School Division, Battleford Agency Tribal Chiefs and Gold Eagle Lodge.
Leslie reflected on the lack of education, when he was in school, about local residential school history and said monuments like this raise awareness. Leslie wanted to recognize Mr. Alvin Baptiste and others for bringing some relevance and true history teachings to Fort Battleford to make it more impactful to our community and to tell the story of the Fort. He spent a lot of hours pushing the federal government to embrace the change. Leslie also noted that next year marks 150 years of Fort Battleford, which will include a significant Indigenous presence.
The ceremony closed with a final song and drumming from Poundmaker Drumming.
Dignitaries and honoured guests in the front row. | Photos by Averil Hall
Lionel Peyachew and Alvin Baptiste unveils the plaque for the Annie Peyachew monument.
Lionel Peyachew holds his Survivor quilt standing beside the Annie Peyachew statue he created.
Heather Hochbaum gives a star quilt to Elder Gladys Greyeyes.
Sherron Burns gives the Land Acknowledgment.
Share your view!
Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223
Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net
When words become weapons
By Cliff Burns
I spend a fair amount of time on social media, interacting with people, posting articles of interest, browsing what friends and other folks are up to.
I recently added an editorial cartoon to my Facebook page, rather innocuous and harmless (I thought), but, clearly, it rattled someone’s cage. This individual responded to my post with a profanity and referred to me as a “libtard traitor”.
It was a ridiculous over-reaction, a remark wayyyy out of proportion to the offending cartoon, the fury of this person so manifest, so intense, it set me back on my heels.
Really?
But that’s the way it is on social media platforms these days, mirroring a society that has become fragmented, polarized and utterly intolerant of opposing points of view.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good debate, but I also expect civility and reason from those who disagree with me. Instead, I
see words sharpened into lethal points, weaponized. Our political opponents are no longer merely wrong, they’re Nazis and terrorist sympathizers and pedophiles…and, yes, libtard traitors.
Personal, ad hominem attacks, in lieu of a substantive exchange of ideas.
Which rather begs the question: how are we supposed to have discussions, especially very difficult ones, the kind of conversations that are essential to any healthy, flourishing democratic nation, when every sentence we utter is met with screams of outrage and abuse?
There’s an old adage: the raised nail gets hammered down. Which is exactly what happens when someone dares dissent or offer opinions that are not inoffensive pablum.
And when you combine controversial or hot button topics with a world that is divided, anxious, immersed in violent imagery from films, television and video games, not to mention bristling with firearms, the end result is predictable and often very, very tragic.
As an author, I am all too aware of the power of words to enthrall, inspire and, also, when used thoughtlessly or maliciously, to do lasting harm, especially to vulnerable segments of the population. My own approach when engaging with someone online is to act as if that person is standing right in front of me. In such an instance, am I likely to bellow at them, hurl abuse, bully and threaten them? I sincerely doubt it. Not my style, and I think that goes for most of us.
Canadians have a well-earned reputation for being temperate, considerate and polite. We don’t tend to beat our chest with nationalistic pride or insist on our moral and political rectitude. For as long as I can remember, our country has had a reputation as peacekeepers, valued intermediaries. Heck, one of our great prime ministers, Lester Pearson, even won a Nobel Peace Prize for brokering an end to the Suez Crisis in 1956—an episode, nearly forgotten now, that could’ve gotten very, very ugly without his intercession.
adtakers@newsoptimist.ca
I’d like to think part of our equanimity comes from being good listeners, with a mindset more modest and unassuming than that of our more bellicose neighbors to the south. None of that hyper-patriotism or manifest destiny nonsense for us.
I’m not sure if it’s possible to enforce any behavioral controls on the wild west that is the internet. I do know that if we don’t at least try, we will be poorer for it, and those gulfs between us will only grow more vast and unbridgeable. All of us retreating into our personal echo chambers, refusing to poke our heads out because of the risk of contamination, or admit the possibility that the viewpoints we hold so dear might be wrong or misguided or in need of revision.
Leading inevitably to an outcome where everyone is terrified of speaking up in case it draws the ire of someone who perceives them as an enemy and seeks to silence them, first by dehumanizing and disparaging them with cruel invective, then threatening them with
hideous consequences should they persist in their folly.
That’s not the kind of world I want to live in and if you’re the same, let’s do our best to tone down the rhetoric, shall we, restore civility to public discourse and treat our fellow human beings in the same manner we would like to be treated.
Otherwise, I fear there is far worse to come, far more casualties in the cultural wars currently raging, a terrible toll exacted by attitudes that refuse any notion of compromise or consensus, determined to fight to the bitter end, regardless of the appalling cost.
“The most powerful moral influence is example.” (Huston Smith)
Cliff Burns has been a professional writer for forty years, author of novels like So Dark the Night and Disloyal Son, as well as many short stories, essays and poems which have appeared in publications and anthologies around the world. For more information on his work, visit cliffburns.com
Contact info: cliffjburns@yahoo. ca or (306)-480-6198
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Celebrating 20 years of Ruthenian culture in Saskatchewan
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— It was a time to celebrate during the 20th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Ruthenian Cultural Association gathering at the Western Development Museum on Sept. 20. People came together from
across Saskatchewan and Alberta to enjoy festivities that included music, dancing, and a traditional Ruthenian supper.
The event also included the release of a new book: Saskatchewan My New Home: Pannonian Rusyns on the Canadian Prairie.
The book is a compilation of personal stories of Ruthe-
nian immigrants from Eastern and Central Europe to Canada and about their new life in Saskatchewan.
The main intention of the book is to preserve the memory of the Rusyns for future generations in written form.
“The main purpose is for future generations searching for personal identity,” said board member Marina
Kolosnjaji. “There is information about families that moved to Saskatchewan from Serbia. We just want to keep information for the future generations.”
The book also includes stories from people from Croatia.
The book features about 80 different stories taken from interviews with Ru-
NB city administration proposes 2026 capital budget
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— North Battleford is bracing for hefty costs as it works to replace aging fire trucks and repair critical infrastructure, including a new roof for city hall.
City manager Randy Patrick said the city must focus not only on immediate needs but also on long-term savings to ensure essential equipment and buildings remain reliable.
“What stands out is the amount of savings we have to do for future years,” Patrick said. “We’re really trying to make sure that we’re not just worrying about this year coming up, but we’re worrying about years coming into the future and making sure that there’s dollars available for needed equipment.”
One of the city’s largest looming expenses is a $1.3-million pumper rescue truck, with $112,500 proposed in the 2026 capital budget and $1.2 million already in reserves. The goal is to make the purchase in 2026.
Another major investment is an aerial ladder truck, valued at $3 million. The city is proposing $294,789 in 2026, with $641,687 already set aside. That purchase is targeted for 2033.
Patrick said fire trucks can’t be kept in service indefinitely and must be replaced to ensure reliability.
“They really have to be
ready to go when they’re supposed to,” Patrick said. “So you can’t have a 50-year-old truck. It just doesn’t work. It’s not reliable enough. We’re trying to balance between the amount of time we have and reliability.”
The city is also budgeting $233,333 in 2026 for a replacement roof for city hall, part of a nearly $1-million project. Patrick said proactive planning is essential, noting some city buildings still have roofs more than 30 years old.
“We have a number of roofs in the city, and we’ve been doing a proactive plan in changing out those roofs before they are totally gone,” he said. “It’s amazing when you get into it just how much the roofs cost.”
The proposals are part of the city administration’s 2026 capital budget presentation, which was reviewed by council at a planning meeting on Sept. 15.
“It’s not council’s budget yet; this is administration’s presentation,” said Mayor Kelli Hawtin. “This is council hearing from adminis-
thenian people who wanted to share their experiences.
Kolosnjaji said culture and people’s stories make them unique, and that’s important to preserve.
She hopes the book encourages youth to keep their language as Ruthenian people.
“It’s very easy, especially for children, to lose their identity, to lose their language,” Kolosnjaji said, adding that Ruthenian children quickly learn English in school but must remember to preserve their own language as well.
Kolosnjaji came to Canada from Serbia with her family in 2007.
“We were very fortunate because my husband found a
job as a mechanic,” she said.
“We were lucky that the Saskatchewan people are very friendly. And they respected us, especially our co-workers and employers, because we are hard-working people.”
The book project was a labour of love started in 2020, authors said. The book was given as a gift to all who attended the celebration, and copies will also be given to schools and libraries.
Kolosnjaji said it was a volunteer effort and no funds will be raised from it. She thanked SaskCulture Inc. for funding the printing of the book.
“The main idea was so everybody mentioned in the book will get one copy,” Kolosnjaji added.
Children have fun performing Ruthenian dances.
With the book, Saskatchewan My New Home, are contributors, left to right. Jozefina Dervisevic,Veronika Sajtos, Melanija Popovic, Marina Kolosnjaji and Ivana Magoc. Missing is Ksenija Sopka (deceased).
North Battleford city council shown at the Sept. 15, 2025 meeting. | Photo by Angela Brown
tration about capital plans or proposals, and this is all
pending budget approval later this year.”
Taekwondo Demonstration
By Averil Hall REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER
Rise Mudo Taekwondo and Rise Taekwondo Parent Association sponsored Grandmaster Rim and Rimpact Team to come to the Battlefords to highlight their skills much to the delight of the audience at the Dekker Centre on Sunday September 28. Lots of board splitting and acrobatics was seen. Last demonstration is where the team mates held a board twenty feet and the athlete was able to break the board successfully.
DiscoveryCO-OPMall onMonday,Oct.6between13:00-16:00 WalmartintheEvening on Tuesday,Oct.7between18:30-21:00 CuplexPool on Wednesday, Oct.9between11:00-13:00
FrontierMallnearDollarama onThursday,Oct.10between13:00-16:00 DiscoveryCo-opMall onSaturday,Oct.11between13:00-17:00
FireChiefFortheDaywillbeon Wednesday,October8th
The8childrenwillbepickedupshortlyafter9. Theirmorningwillconsistofafirehalltour,safetyvideos, tryingonturnoutgear,gettingtheirpicturestaken,somehandsonwork ie.Escapeplanningandthenfinallyalunchwiththe FireChief,CaptainandFirefighters. Theywillthenbereturnedtotheirschoolsby12:10withaprizebag.
Fifth generation family celebrates 100 years on Manitou Lake farm
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
RM OF MANITOU
LAKE
— A fifth-generation farming family is celebrating after being on the same farm for more than 100 years.
Grant Jones, who is 75 years old, said the family has been on the farm since 1920 in the RM of Manitou Lake.
His son Garrett has been running it for the past 10 years, and Garrett’s sons Kroy and Drae, the fifth generation in the family, will run it after that.
Jones said dedication is the number one reason the family has been able to hold on to the farm for so long and maintain a long-lasting business.
“We all wanted to farm,” he said. “My grandfather settled there, and my father bought it, and I bought it
from my father. My son is buying it right now with his sons. Everybody likes farming. You’ve got to be dedicated to stick on one place that long.”
The family grows wheat, canola and peas on the 2,500acre farm.
Jones’ grandfather originally settled on the land after coming from Badger, Minnesota, in 1920.
“He just immigrated here. He didn’t land right here, but he came by train and went looking for some property and bought this place,” said Jones. “He had a sister that moved up here a few years before.
“He just liked the area that overlooked the lake,” added Jones. “He liked the small town [Marsden] and the land was reasonably good.”
Jones said a lot has changed at the farm over
the years.
“We went from horses to the old international tractors,” he said. “We run a big Versatile four-wheel drive right now. There’s been lots of changes in my lifetime.”
Jones noted that times haven’t always been easy for farming, but the family has carried on to make the operation successful.
“It’s been fairly timely with the rains,” he said. “The crops are usually good. Sometimes they’re not. We try not to carry too much debt. So when things go a little bit sideways on you, you can handle it. We’ve managed to do that.
“Even during the high interest rates in the late ’70s and early ’80s, that was a little bit tough, but we made it through it,” Jones added. “You’ve got to be dedicated... You have to be passionate.”
FLYERDELIVERY
North Battleford gives first reading to whistleblower bylaw
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD –North Battleford city council has given first reading to a new whistleblower protection bylaw.
City clerk Stacey Hadley said in her report that it’s important in local government that public servants espouse core values of integrity, respect, trust, professionalism and accountability in their everyday conduct.
“Although there have been no concerns raised warranting a bylaw of this nature, this bylaw is being presented as a tool to further build on organizational and the public’s trust and comfort in community transparency,” she said.
The whistleblower protection bylaw aims to establish
the framework and process required to investigate allegations of suspected wrongdoing of city employees, while also establishing protection from reprisal for those reporting suspected wrongdoing in good faith.
Now that it has gone through first reading, the bylaw will come back to council on Oct. 14 for second and third readings.
“There were councillors last fall asking city administration to look at a whistleblower policy just to provide staff a mechanism where it’s kind of a safe place to deal with those types of conflicts in the workplace if there’s not currently a pathway,” said Mayor Kelli Hawtin. “So as the city manager mentioned, there’s no situation that’s arising that’s having this policy
brought forward, but it was council asking last year, let’s make sure our staff has a proper channel to deal with those types of concerns.”
The city only held first reading on Sept. 22 to allow time for city administration to consult with city unions, for example, to make sure there are no issues with what is being proposed.
“This gives the public a chance to have a look at it,” said Hawtin. “It gives council a chance to maybe digest it a little more as well before we move to second and third reading. If there’s any changes, then we can introduce those at second reading.”
The city noted that it’s important to be aware that whistleblower protection policies exist in other municipalities as well.
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
— Two accused in the death of Lyle Night Jr. are now scheduled for trial.
Brody Runningaround, 20, and Malyka Nahbexie, 23, are each charged with first-degree murder in the case.
They both appeared in North Battleford provincial court on Sept. 22 for a pre-
liminary hearing.
At the end of the day, the defence lawyers for both accused committed their clients to stand trial, confirmed Crown prosecutor Greg Chovin.
Trial will be by judge and jury.
A publication ban is in effect on the details of the preliminary hearing.
The dates for the trials for each accused are still to be confirmed. The trial will be
held at the Court of King’s Bench in Battleford. RCMP previously reported that on Jan. 2 at approximately 4:50 a.m., Battlefords detachment received a report of an injured male at a residence on Saulteaux First Nation. Officers located a seriously injured male, who was later pronounced deceased by EMS at the scene. He has been identified as 24-year-old Lyle Night Jr. from Saulteaux First Nation.
Shown are a multi-generational farming family from west of North Battleford. Left to right, are Kroy, Drae, Garrett, and Grant Jones. | Photo submitted by Grant Jones
Upcoming Event Calendar
China’sCanolaTariffsConcernAll Canadians -CanadianChamberofCommerce
To allourfriendsand colleaguesinagricultureandagri-food,includingthoserecentlyimpactedbyadditional canolatariffs,
OnbehalfoftheCanadianChamber ofCommerceandourChamberNetworkacrossthecountry, we’rewithyou. You’ve been caught betweena tradewarontwofrontsformonths.NotonlyareyounavigatingU.S.tariffswiththe rest of thecountry,but you’ve takenthebruntofChina’s retaliation forCanadaaligningwiththeU.S.onmattersunrelated to agriculture.
China’stariffshavecreated uncertaintyinanindustrythatdoesnothave theluxuryofpivotingwhen tradedynamics change on adime. Cropplanningisdifficultwhenyouhave noidea what thestate ofourrelationshipwithoneofCanada’slargest agriculturalmarketswillbe.
Agricultureisanintegralpieceofournationalfabric.It feedsour communities,supportsrurallivelihoods,sustainsjobsacrosssupply chains —whether transportation,processing,retailorsupport services —anddeliversfood to ourtradepartners.Thissituation affectsourcountry from West to East,touchingthelivesofall Canadians.In2024,agriculture andagri-fooddirectly contributed around7% to Canada’s GDP, supported 2.3millionjobsacross thesupplychain,andaccounted foroverone-tenthofCanada’s goodsexports.The canolaindustryalone represents 200,000jobsand$43billion fortheCanadian economy. Simply,weare united by ourcountry ’s economic stability, health,andprosperity.Whenkey sectorsstruggleorare destabilized,weall feel thepain. Governmentsatalllevelsmust play theirpartinresolvingthis.Wemustworktowardrestoringvitalmarketaccess, advancingopportunitiesfor exportdiversification,andensuringsupport systemsare inplacetohelpthose affected. Theseare tryingtimes.Buthistoryhasshownusthe resilienceofCanada’sagriculturalsector— andour collective strengthas anation.Youhave ourunwaveringsupportandare notalone.TheCanadianChamberofCommerceis activelyworkingwithpartners acrosstheagriculturalandbusinesscommunitiestopursueimmediatereliefand to durably connectCanada’s high-qualitygoodswithnewmarkets.Wewill continue to amplifyyourstories,advocatefor solutions,andmake itclearthat agriculturematterstoallCanadians.
31stBBEXAwards– Finalists Battlefords &DistrictChamberofCommerce
The Battlefords BusinessExcellence(BBEX)Committee recentlyannouncedthefinalists fortheupcomingBBEXawards, presentedbyGoldEagleCasino.TheBBEX awards,now intheir31st year,are thehighest andmostprestigiousaward for Battlefordsbusinessesinthelocalmarketplace.
The2025Finalistsare:
BBEXAward recipientswillbeannounced at thegalabanquetandceremony onNovember6th, 2025,attheDonRossCommunityCentre inNorthBattleford
“TheBBEXAwardsshowcasetheimmensetalentandentrepreneurialspiritoftheBattlefords business community.Thesefinalistshave demonstrated remarkableachievements,resilienceanda commitmenttoserviceandcommunity,” says BBEXco-chairSamanthaWeber.
HeatherGuthrieCustomerServiceStarAward (Business/Owner/Entrepreneur)Finalists: BoutiqueNoirInc.; CJVTheCarpet People;GoldEagleLodge;K&KGlassInc.;Moon’s Kitchen;SplishSplashAuto,RV& PetWash,StilBoutique &BeautyInc.
NewBusinessVenture AwardFinalists: Eston’sPlace;ZELSafetyServicesInc.
CommunityContributionAward Finalists: Bralin TechnologySolutions;CalebVillage RetirementCommunity; HomeHardwareBuildingCentreNorthBattleford;SplishSplashAuto, RV &Pet Wash;SwansonGryba& Company
ImpactAwardFinalists: BattleRiver Treaty 6HealthCentreInc.;Battlefords EarlyYears Family ResourceCentre; BattlefordsImmigration ResourceCentre Inc.;BGCBattlefords;BigBrothers BigSisters oftheBattlefords;Catholic Family ServicesoftheBattlefordsInc.;KanaweyimikChild &FamilyServices +WesternDevelopmentMuseumPartnership for Reconciliation
YoungEntrepreneurAwardFinalists: AmandaArcand -BodywisePiercing;CaylaEllis -Annette’s SchoolofDance; LandonLibbey– LakesideEnvironmentalLtd.;ClarissaandDarvinScheidl –BirdiesGolfLounge;JacksonTady–TheArmouryBrewingCo.
MicroBusinessAward Finalists: BirdiesGolfLounge;Culligan Water– NorthBattleford;Eston’s Place;JetyBuilders Ltd.; LakesideEnvironmental Ltd.
AgricultureandAgri-BusinessAward Finalists: 4SunsAgSolutions Ltd.;NachtegaeleAgriServicesInc.;Prairie AG;Seed 2LeafEnvironmentalConsultingInc.
Members’ChoiceAwardFinalists: BattlefordsDistrict Food &ResourceCentre;Café 4U;CalebVillage Retirement Community;Fisher’sDrugStore;TheBattlefords RegionalNews Optimist
Heritage AwardRecipient: UltraPrint Services Ltd.
The eveningisalsoexpectedtointroducea Stan WychopenMemorialBBEXScholarship recipientfromNorth West College, whowill receivea totalscholarshipof$2,000 toward theirbusinessprogrameducation.
The BBEX BusinessoftheYearAward, sponsoredbytheSaskatchewan Workers’CompensationBoard,isselectedfrom amongthefinalistsintheopenbusinesscategoriesabove andwillbeannouncedliveonNovember6th,2025. Theannouncementofthenext inducteetotheBattlefordsBusinessHallof Famewillbemadepriortothe event. Thank youtoallofthesponsors,participants,andthoseinthecommunitywhonominated apersonora businessforthe31 st BBEXAwards.
ChamberonTap
Thursday,October9th,20255:00p.m.to7:00p.m. TheBlend –Riverside,NorthBattleford
Guests:KelliHawtin,Mayor,CityofNorthBattleford AmesLeslie,Mayor,TownofBattleford
Ticketsare$25plustaxesandavailableatthe Chamberoffice306-445-6226
ChamberonTap
Thursday,November20th,20255:00p.m.to7:00p.m. Café4U- Battleford
Guest:RyanHow, Inspector, BattlefordsR.C.M.P. Ticketsare$25plustaxesandavailableatthe Chamberoffice306-445-6226
ChamberOpenHouse
Tuesday,October21st,2025
Battlefords &DistrictChamberofCommerceBldg 1:00p.m.to4:00p.m.,ComeandGo
31stBBEXAwardsGala
ThursdayNovember6th,2025 @DonRoss CommunityCentre,NorthBattleford TicketsonSaleNow:calltheChamber Office –306-445-6226andorderyours. PattiAcaster,c/oShearPerfection •306-446-4333 •1371A –100thStreet, NorthBattleford,SK. ProjectFive,StaceyCommer •1-780-214-6416 •#30 –426041stStreet, Lloydminster,SK. EppicVenturesInc.,AudreyEpp •306-441-2672 •P.O. Box1397, Battleford,SK.
Fifth Battleford Street Fair sees strong turnout
CHUCKLES
Whydobeesstayintheirhives duringwinter? Swarm!
Ionceworkedatacheappizzashop togetby. Ikneadedthedough. Whatdoyoucallapig withlaryngitis? Disgruntled.
Myfriends&Ihavenamedout band"Duvet" It'sacoverband!
Howmuchdidthepiratepay togethisearspierced? Abuccaneer!
ByKylieMak
By Averil Hall
Freelance Reporter/ Photographer
The fifth Battleford Street Fair took place on September 20 with clear skies and warm weather, unlike the first fair when strong winds caused problems for vendors.
Judy Pruden said it was good to see the event continue to grow. Michelle Lalonde, president of the Battleford Spirit Group, said by noon a few hundred people had already attended. She reported 37 vendors and six to eight food trucks were registered.
Several local businesses took part, including a Home Hardware garage sale, Café 4U, Battle Fit Gym, Remedy’sRX Pharmacy, the library with a book sale, Ice Cream Oasis, and more. Battleford Furniture donated a bar fridge for a free draw.
Children’s activities included face painting by Concern for Youth, balloon animals, clowns, a bubble station, and a fish pond run by the Boys and Girls Club. The fire department also had trucks on site for kids to explore.
The Battleford Spirit Group will next host the Lights of Joy Family Dance on November 15.
Home Hardware had a garage sale at the street fair. | Photos by Averil Hall
Kaze Production vendor shows one of the hats she had for sale at the street fair.
Christian Sinclair learns about the fire hose from a firefighter.
Meadow Lacroix comes to the street fair in her fancy car.
Kids try to catch the bubbles from a bubble wand.
Linda Coe Kirkham, Executive Director of the Concern for Youth paints a youngster’s face.
Shelly Bretzer and Donna Challis display information about the Battlefords Community Players upcoming season.
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FORMG [Section2.7]
FINALNOTICEPURSUANTTO THE TAXENFORCEMENTACT
TAKENOTICE thatthe TownofCutKnifeintends,on theexpirationof30daysfromthedate set outbelow, torequesttheRegistrarof Titlestoissuetitletotheland d escribedbelo w byvirtueofaninterestbas ed on a TaxLienregistered againsttheexistingtitletothatland intheLandRegistryonthe23rd dayofJanuar y, 2024,as InterestNumber198376037 UNLESS youredeemtha t landpursuanttotheprovisionsoftheActwithin30days fromthedatesetoutbelow, andthat onissueoftitlefor that landtothe TownofCutKnifepursuant to that request, youwillthereafterbeforeverestoppedanddebarredfrom settingupany claimtoorinrespectofthatland.
DATED at CutKnife,intheProvinceofSaskatchewan, this12dayofSeptember,2025.
HydeInvestmentsLimited
NameofAssessedOwner
THETOWNOFCUTKNIFE
Per: DeborahSchaefer, Treasurer
LEGALDESCRIPTIONOFLANDS: SESec32 Twp43Rge21W3
PlanNo101531720Extension24
TitleNumber:153254976
DUPUIS: December 10, 1980September 18, 2025. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Justin Dupuis on September 18, 2025, at the age of 44, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on December 10, 1980, in Regina, Saskatchewan, during a fierce winter storm, Justin came into this world with a spirit as bold as the weather that welcomed him. From a young age, he embraced life with passion and adventure. A talented skier in his youth, Justin had a fearless love for the slopes and for outdoor sports of every kind. He loved camping, exploring nature, and never turned down the chance to take risks or try “crazy” things that made life exciting and memorable. Justin joined Haid Roofing in 2017 after several years with Clark Roofing and he quickly became known for his dedication, leadership, and infectious personality. As project manager, he earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike. His passion, work ethic, and ability to bring people together created a lasting legacy at Haid Roofing Ltd., where he will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. Above all, family was at the center of Justin’s heart. He balanced his adventurous spirit with a strong dedication to his work and his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved, building a life filled with opportunity, security, and countless cherished memories. Though life’s journey brought challenges, he loved his family: Marcie, their children Bodhi (8), and Maverett (3), and Tristan (17) (Judy Jaunzems-Fernuk). Nothing meant more to him than being their Dad. He will also be deeply missed by his parents, Leonard and Lorraine Dupuis; his brother Chris (Michelle) and their children; as well as many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched with kindness, laughter, and adventure. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Cathedral of the Holy Family (123 Nelson Road) Saskatoon, on Friday October 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Funeral arrangements in care of Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200. To share memories of Justin or send condolences, please visit www.mourningglory.ca .
Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association's Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.
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FORMC [Section2.3] NOTICE
(The TaxEnforcementAct)
TAKENOTICE THATtheCityofNorthBattlefordintendstobe registeredas ownerundertheaboveActofthelanddescribed at thefootofthisdocument.
Themunicipality claimstitletothelandbyvirtueofaninterest basedonthetaxlienregistered againsttheexistingtitletothe landintheLand TitlesRegistr yasInterestNumber201044517, andyouarerequiredto TAKENOTICE thatunlessyoucontest the claimofthemunicipalityorredeemthelandpursuantto theprovisionsoftheaboveActWITHINSIXMONTHSFROM THESERVICEOFTHISNOTICEONYOUand,subjecttothe furtherprovisionsofTheTaxEnforcementAct, acertificateof titlewillbeissuedtothe applicantandyouwillthereafterbe foreverestoppedanddebarredfromsettingupany claimto,or inrespectof,theland.
Theamountrequiredtoredeemthelandmaybeascertained on applicationtotheClerk, TreasurerorAdministratorofthe municipality.
Datedthis19th dayofSeptember, 2025
MavisQuinn Takakenew EdwardJonesSangris (NameofAssessedOwner(s))
PER: Margarita Pena,Administrator
LEGALDESCRIPTIONOFLANDS: Lot6,Block50,PlanB2991,Extension0 TitleNumber:144975123
FORMG [Section2.7]
FINALNOTICEPURSUANTTO THE TAXENFORCEMENTACT
TAKENOTICE thatthe TownofCutKnifeintends,on theexpirationof30daysfromthedate set outbelow, torequesttheRegistrarof Titlestoissuetitletotheland d escribedbelo w byvirtueofaninterestbas ed on a TaxLienregistered againsttheexistingtitletothatland intheLandRegistr y onthe28 th da yofMa y, 2021,as InterestNumber 190899680 UNLESS youredeemtha t landpursuanttotheprovisionsoftheActwithin30days fromthedatesetoutbelow, andthat onissueoftitlefor that landtothe TownofCutKnifepursuant to that request, youwillthereafterbeforeverestoppedanddebarredfrom settingupany claimtoorinrespectofthatland.
DATED at CutKnife,intheProvinceofSaskatchewan, this12dayofSeptember,2025.
THETOWNOFCUTKNIFE
Per: DeborahSchaefer, Treasurer
Paskemin&AssociatesLtd. NameofAssessedOwner
LEGALDESCRIPTIONOFLANDS:
Blk/ParCPlanNoAJ4076Extension34
TitleNumber:131398904
Wanted old advertising: Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi etc. Call 306-221-5908
Chamber on Tap event to look at town and city strategic plans
By Angela Brown
SaskToday.ca
NORTH BATTLEFORD
KeyanowChildandFamilyCentre Inc.(KCFC) isseeking applications for highly motivated, rceful,courteous
KeyanowChildandFamilyCentre Inc.(KCFC) is seekingapplications for highlymotivated, resourceful, courteous and compassionate individuals tofill the followingpositions:
FamilyServicesUnit(FS)
• FamilyFinderAccessor/RecruiterandHomeStudy Worker(1)
FamilyEnhancementUnit(FEU)
•FEUIn-HomeSupport Worker(1position)
•FEUAdultOutreach Worker(1position)
•FEU YouthOutreach Worker(2positions)
CLOSINGDATE:October 18,2025(maybeextended untilposition(s)filled)
Pleasevisitourwebsitehttps://keyanowcfc.com –CareerOpportunitiesforfurtherinformation.
— The Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce
to Keith and LindaKoberinski
is getting ready to host the next Chamber of Tap session that will feature North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin and Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie.
The event will take place Oct. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Blend Restaurant–Riverside.
During the event, the guest speakers will discuss the City
FARMLANDFORSALEBYTENDER
Thefollowingpropertywillbeoffered for salebytender under the direction ofRandy Kirkham, BarristerandSolicitor 2025Assessment
RMOFSPIRITWOODNo.496
1.Allbids mustbesubmittedinwritinganddeliveredtoKirkhamLawOffice at the addressbelowbyNoonon Friday, October24th,2025.
of North Battleford and the Town of Battleford’s new strategic plans.
“They have recently passed new strategic plans for the next three or four years,” said Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce chief operating officer Linda Machniak. “The idea is for them [Hawtin and Leslie] to both come and share the priorities and the focus points for their strategic plans. Basically, I hope we’ll discuss what it means for all of us, what kinds of things we could expect, whether it’s construction and infrastructure, whether it’s economic development, those kinds of things.”
FORMG [Section2.7]
FINALNOTICEPURSUANTTO THE TAXENFORCEMENTACT
TAKENOTICE thatthe TownofCutKnifeintends,on theexpirationof30daysfromthedate set outbelow, torequesttheRegistrarof Titlestoissuetitletotheland d escribedbelo w byvirtueofaninterestbas ed on a TaxLienregistered againsttheexistingtitletothatland intheLandRegistryonthe23rd dayofJanuar y, 2024,as InterestNumber198376026 UNLESS youredeemtha t landpursuanttotheprovisionsoftheActwithin30days fromthedatesetoutbelow, andthat onissueoftitlefor that landtothe TownofCutKnifepursuant to that request, youwillthereafterbeforeverestoppedanddebarredfrom settingupany claimtoorinrespectofthatland.
DATED at CutKnife,intheProvinceofSaskatchewan, this12dayofSeptember,2025.
HydeInvestmentsLimited
NameofAssessedOwner
Per: DeborahSchaefer, Treasurer
LEGALDESCRIPTIONOFLANDS:
SWSec32 Twp43Rge21W3 PlanNo101531720Extension26
TitleNumber:153254965
2.Thisisthehome quarterandincludesthefollowing: 1980bungalow approximately1100sqftwithdeck Detached24x48garage Storageshed12x20 1-Goodwell Fuelshed8x12 24x24barnbuiltinthe90’s Corralswithsteelgates 4-SteelBinsoncementfloors approximately1500bushelseach 100acresseededtohayallfencedwithsome crossfencing Maturewindbreakaroundthe yard
Propertylocatedhalf mileoffthehighwayand6 milesoutofSpiritwood,SK.
4.Eachbidshallbeaccompaniedbyacertifiedchequeorsolicitor’s trustchequeinthe amountof10%ofthebid madepayableto“KirkhamLawOffice”.Ifthebidis unacceptablethecertifiedchequeorthesolicitor’s trustchequeshallbereturnedto thebidder.
5. Within15daysoftheopeningofbids,thesuccessfulbiddershallprovideeither: a)thebalanceofthepurchaseprice;or b)paymentofasumequaltothedifferencebetweenthebalanceofthepurchase priceandany mortgagefinancing,togetherwithanunconditionaland unequivocalletterofcommitmentfromarecognizedfinancialinstitutiontothe mortgageetofinancewithin15daysoftheconfirmationofsale,thesuccessful bidder’spurchaseofthelandforthepricestatedinthebid
c) Possessiondateoffarmland November14,2025. Purchaserresponsibleforall 2026 propertytaxes.
6.Ifthesuccessfulbidderdoesnotcompletethepurchaseonthetermsandwithinthe time specified,thedepositwillbeforfeited.
7.ThesaleofthelandsshallbesubjecttotheexistingSaskPowereasements.
8.Thehighestoranybid maynotnecessarilybeaccepted.
KIRKHAMLAWOFFICE 1652–100Street NORTHBATTLEFORD,SKS9A0W6 Att:RandyKirkham Phone:(306)446-2900; Fax:(306)446-2242 km.law@sasktel.net
Noticeisherebygivenunder The TaxEnforcementAct thatunlessthearrearsand costsappearingoppositethelandandtitlenumberdescribedinthefollowinglist are fullypaidbeforeDecember1,2025,aninterestbasedonataxlienwillbe registeredagainsttheland.
Note:Asumforcostsinanamount requiredbysubsection4(3)of The Tax EnforcementAct isincludedintheamountshownagainsteachparcel.
DESCRIPTIONOFPROPERTY
LOT1-BLK/PAR12-PLANAJ4076EXT0 148320446$1,655.62$35.00$1,690.62
LOT3-BLK/PARD-PLANBP2660EXT0
LOT18-BLK/PARD-PLAN101533878EXT13
LOT4-BLK/PAR1-PLANBT5363EXT0
BLK/PARQ-PLAN01B13607EXT2 148462645$38,692.71$700.00$39,392.71
BLK/PARE-PLANAM3078EXT54 153017524$606.03$700.00$1,306.03
BLK/PARL-PLAN81B15168EXT1 129296087$1,401.14$700.00$2,101.14
LOT1-BLK/PAR23-PLANAM3080EXT34 149232641$857.14$700.00$1,557.14
LOT3-BLK/PAR23-PLANAM3080EXT32 154152873$2,012.04$700.00$2,712.04
*PenaltyiscalculatedtothedateoftheNoticeandwillcontinuetoaccrueasapplicable. Datedthis24th dayofSeptember,2025
DeborahSchaefer,Administrator
Machniak noted both the town and city have four or five priorities as areas of focus in their Strategic Plans, so the event will be a good opportunity to hear about that.
It’s also important for business members to learn about what the town and city priorities are going forward.
“I think it would give them a sense of what they could expect over the next short term, three or four years, on infrastructure projects, on capital projects, on economic development or tourism initiatives, on things that the community sees as priorities,” Machniak said. “And I guess part of it would be to see where we align or maybe where we don’t, or have that discussion. People can ask questions and raise concerns or things they want to talk about. I’m sure that the municipalities have a very well-rounded presentation for us, so we’re looking forward to that.”
Tickets, at $25 each, will cover an appetizer and a beverage and are available through the chamber of commerce.
Fall fun and festivities fill October in Mayfair and area
By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent
Already into the month of Thanksgiving and Halloween! Over the past few decades, Canadians have increasingly spent large amounts of money on Halloween costumes and decorations — and not just for kids. Even adults love to dress up and enjoy a fun night on the town. Stores have been stocked since July! Trail rides are a big event in the western provinces, and Rabbit Lake’s Jim Tomkins is a major advocate. He is compiling a list of all upcoming
rides across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.
If you know of any 2026 trail rides — whether it’s a one-day or three-day event — please call Jim at 306 - 841 - 7041. You can also find him on Facebook under his name.
The Speers Fall Supper is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 22. Apparently, it’s always been held on the third Wednesday of October, so it shouldn’t conflict with any weekend events. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 7 to 12, and free for kids six and under.
Mass at All Saints Church in Mayfair will
still be held at 9 a.m. this Sunday, with a deacon conducting the service.
The parish priest remains on extended holiday in his home country of Nigeria. A new mass schedule will be determined before Sunday, Oct. 12, to coordinate between the three parishes. Football anyone? Not the Riders — this time, it’s the Hafford Vikings senior school football team. They recently travelled to Denton, Montana, where they narrowly lost to the DSGS Bearcats in a hard-fought battle. Denton is located in a region known for dryland farming and ranching. The team left by bus on Friday
and returned home Sunday. They can be proud of their performance against one of the top teams in that division. Come support them at their upcoming home games before playoff season and colder weather arrive.
The Rustic Nine Loft hosted a sold-out crowd on Saturday, Sept. 27, for a performance by the band Back of the Bus. This was my third time seeing them in different venues, and they never disappoint. With great stage presence, laughter and audience engagement, they put on a memorable show. This was the final 2025 con -
cert at Victor and Elaine Liebaert’s barn loft on the Rustic Nine Golf Course, located just a few miles northeast of North Battleford. The main level of the barn also houses a small museum featuring their grandparents’ belongings, including Grandma Liebaert’s wedding dress. I’m sure they’re already busy planning the 2026 entertainment schedule.
The Ruddell Ladies Club has released its potluck dates for the coming year. They’ll be hosting suppers on Sept. 28, Oct. 29, Nov. 27, Dec. 19, Jan. 26, Feb. 24, Mar. 17 and Apr. 22. On May 9, they’ll
hold their Spring Afternoon Fancy Tea, and on Aug. 12 they’ll wrap up the season with a wiener roast, weather permitting. These evenings are always filled with great food, friendship and, occasionally, a few card games after supper.
We could use a good, hard frost to get rid of those sticky flies, so I won’t be disappointed when it finally arrives. While the warm, above-seasonal temperatures are a blessing to many, the evenings are cool enough to need a jacket. Now, it’s time to start getting ready for Thanksgiving!
Excellent Irish, Scottish and Celtic music was performed by Back of the Bus at the Rustic Nine Loft on Saturday, Sept. 27. | Photos submitted by Elaine Woloshyn
No, those aren’t giant marshmallows! Some farmers are individually wrapping large round hay bales for winter storage to prevent spoilage. Photo taken near the Radisson/ Borden area along Highway 16.
Some of the crowd at Ruddell’s potluck last week.
Friendship Club fall supper features music, memories and milestones
By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent
The Borden Friendship Club held their potluck supper on Thursday, Sept. 25, in the Borden Seniors’ Centre at 5:45 p.m., with Sandi Long welcoming everyone and remarking on how bright the room is since new LED lights were installed. The tables and room were nicely decorated in a fall theme with bright colours, yellow potted mums and colourful centrepieces.
Sandi told a joke, then had Eleanor Walton give the blessing. Happy Birthday was sung to Jackie Meister, Lew Wall and Bev Hrynuik, and everyone enjoyed cake and ice cream.
Sandi presented a cheque for $5,000 to Gloria Derbowka for the BCCPC for new flooring, a gift certificate to Kathy Young for hosting the July supper, and a gift certificate to Peter Thiessen for caretaking. With the resignation of Sheldon Carr as vice-president, volunteers were asked to step up, and Bev Assman volunteered to take on the role until April 2026, when the annual meeting will be held.
Ruben Rempel then introduced Erin Foreman of North Battleford, who provided entertainment for the evening. Erin is a school teacher whose family is originally from Maymont. She plays a variety of instruments—keyboard, guitar, violin and fiddle. On the keyboard she played and sang a Newfie song and Come, Ye Thankful People, Come On violin she performed Blue Skirt Waltz and Danny Boy, and on fiddle she played Caribou Shuffle and Smile Awhile. On guitar, she performed My Old Yellow Car, Blue Kentucky Girl and many more songs on each instrument, closing with a Scottish tune, Not Going to Say Goodbye, But See You Again
On a bright, sunny, warm Saturday, Sept. 27, the Borden Threshermen’s Club held their annual Threshing Day at the site two miles north of Borden. Wake’s Cook Car sold borscht, veggie soup, bread and jam, along with beverages, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Donna Barth had her petting zoo on hand with goats, rabbits, chickens and more in pens where children could touch and pick them up.
The Parade of Power was held at noon, with flag bearers on horseback leading the way—Krissy Derbowka,
Alex and Alana Gunsch—followed by more riders: Jeanette, Ivy, Finn Hawk, Nancy and Jessie.
Greg Malinowski had his team pulling a plow; Chad Holland had his team pulling the people carrier.
The kiddie cars were busy all afternoon. Casey Wensley drove an Allis Chalmers WC 1947 tractor; Willard Wensley had a 1950 McCormick W4; and Aaron Wensley drove his 1927 McCormick pulling the 1927 MM threshing machine.
Darren Button had a 1948 MMU tractor; Ed Neufeld brought his 1948 JD D; Daryl Amey drove his 1944 Farmall A; Gage Matechuk drove a 1958 JD 420; and his dad, Dylan, brought a 1958 JD 630 pulling the JD Clipper combine.
John Moffatt drove his 1960 Pontiac car, Larry Schmanski had his 1956 Studebaker President, and George Walker brought his dad’s 1951 Mercury grain truck. Bishop Rod Andrew drove a 1952 JDR, Archie Wainwright had a 1952 Cockshutt 40, and Mike Sutherland brought a Farmall H. Rod Roenspies drove his tractor pulling the binder, and the Borden Fire Department ended the parade with their fire trucks.
The parade circled the field twice, then the demonstrations began. Archie Wainwright made rope, and farrier Todd Bailey demonstrated horseshoeing on his horse. Twelve men and women pulled a single-blade plow digging furrows, and there was plowing and discing with horses. Sheaves were cut with a binder and stooked, then wagons pulled by horses or tractors picked up the sheaves and the threshing began after 2 p.m.
Following that, the potato digger went to work and people could grab bags to take home potatoes, along with corn grown on the field. Pumpkins had been picked earlier and were for sale at the info booth, manned by Eleanor Walton and Martha Rempel, who noted over 350 people signed in—though likely more attended without signing the guest book.
After 3:30 p.m., everyone travelled into Borden to visit the museum and then enjoy a roast beef supper at the Borden Community Centre, served by the Borden Museum.
Special thanks go to Loran and Danyle Collission for the use of the land, and to everyone who helped in any way—your support is greatly appreciated.
Horsepower, heritage and harvest at Borden Threshing Day
23 members of
Erin Foreman of North Battleford entertained members of the Borden Friendship Club at their fall potluck supper, performing a variety of songs on keyboard, guitar, violin and fiddle. |Photos submitted by Lorraine Olinyk
Sandi Long, right, presents a $5,000 cheque to Gloria Derbowka for the BCCPC to help with new flooring at the centre.
Jackie Meister, Lew Wall and Bev Hrynuik were recognized during the supper for their September birthdays with cake and ice cream.
On September
Borden’s Threshing Club bindered the field of wheat at the Threshing site, using Rod Roenspies LA480 Kubota tractor pulling the McCormick Deering binder manned by Ruben
On hand were Stu Walton, Mel Brooke, Ruben, Rod, Les Saunders & Ivan (friend of Rob’s from Saskatoon) Threshing Day was Sept. 27 at 10 am.
Handcrafted drums keep Meota’s beat
By Trudy Janssens Correspondent
Since moving to Meota, we have met many interest ing people. Brian and Carol Neabel retired to Cochin around the same time we retired to Meota. Carol and I share a love of photogra phy and we regularly use our phones to trade images and experiences. Carol has been sewing and knitting for years, while I keep busy with volunteer work at the Sailing Club and looking after our grandchildren.
Brian decided to start making drums 10 years ago. On a recent visit he described some of the steps involved in making his var ious types of drums. Brian loves to drive all over Sas katchewan to attend music festivals. They have been go ing to Ness Creek for more than 20 years, and he tells me that over 3,000 people attend Ness Creek every year. They also like to go to Doyle Fest, which is on a much smaller scale but draws wonderful local talent. He appreciates country music and regularly joins drumming circles. His drums come along and, one by one, are purchased by people who appreciate them. He makes about 10 drums a year, and every year there’s enough demand to make 10 more the next year.
Every fall, local hunters drop off hides. He is willing to take deer, elk, moose and bison hides. Naturally, there are differences in thickness; the thicker the hide, the more challenging it is to work with. He has a shed dedi cated to preparing the hides with salt over the winter, so the hair can be scraped off in the spring. We visited once and were amazed at all the stretcher frames with hides propped against his shop, baking in the sun.
He buys lumber for the bases and has felt the im pact of higher lumber pric
es. He spends a lot of time cutting, framing, varnishing and decorating the bases. He likes to decorate his drums with Kokopelli, the spir it‑of‑music figure. Kokopelli is a mythical figure in the cultures of the Hopi, Navajo and Pueblo peoples of the southwestern U.S. His flute is said to announce his arriv al, and it’s believed he chases away winter and brings the spring. We could all use one during our long Saskatche wan winters.
Stretching the hides re quires strong hands and the right tools. He makes his own “sinew,” using parts of the hide that may not be suitable for the top. Some of his drums are tacked with nails, while others are criss‑crossed with heavy rope. Brian draws on his experience working in a blacksmith shop to bend the steel rings needed to stretch the skin over the wooden base. Each Ashiko drum re quires three steel rings, and Brian likes to spend weeks tightening and tuning the drum until he’s happy. The tighter the drum, the higher the pitch. As a drum ages and either dries out or ab sorbs moisture—depending on the humidity—the pitch will change. It’s possible to retune the drum or even re skin it if it’s damaged. Drum makers use various materials to cover the steel rings; Brian likes hockey tape because it now comes in black and other colours.
Powwow drums require a stand to suspend them off the floor, and they have skin on both the top and the bottom. The sound is determined by skin thickness and is unique to the type of hide used. He has found bison skin very suitable because its thickness produces a rich, low sound. Brian has his own personal powwow drum that he has decorated extensively, and it goes with him to all the drum circles he attends. He also
loves to search for just the right sticks to make mallets. He described drumming late into the night as everyone camps near the drum circle. If the drumming stops, it usually wakes you up.
Djembe and Ashiko drums are designed to be played with the hands, with the drum held at an angle be tween your legs or supported by a sling over your shoul der. Many women favour hoop drums because they are light and played with a mallet. I was privileged to hear Allen Sapp play a hoop drum at the Allen Sapp Gal lery about 15 years ago.
In making his drums, Bri an uses techniques unique to him. He told me there’s plen ty of information on drum making online, but hands‑on experience is the best teach er. Drum making isn’t exact ly a relaxing hobby, but Bri an enjoys the challenges at every stage. It’s no surprise he takes the time to paint Kokopelli on his drums—the spirit of music lives in him as he appreciates the many
musicians he encounters at festivals throughout the year.
As a student in school tak ing mathematics, he never thought he would use “pi r squared.” Turns out he was wrong—he uses it now to calculate the circumference of the circular pieces of hide
required to make a drum.
A quick reminder: the Lions are holding their fall ham and turkey bingo at the Community Hall on Oct. 6.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Okto berfest in Meota will be on Oct. 18 with the Willy Broth ers entertaining. All proceeds will go to kitchen improve ments at the Community Hall. Tickets are available from Charles Baillargeon at 306 713 1901.
Last but not least, Meota’s flu clinic will be held at the Do Drop‑In on Oct. 17 from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
DOES IT? Professional
Brian Neabel demonstrates his PowWow drum.This is the drum he used at all the drum circles that he attends in various places in the province. | Photos by Trudy Janssens
Brain Neabel is a passionate drum maker. This isn’t exactly a relaxing hobby, but Brian tribes on the challenges.
This photo shows the knot tying required to make a Hoop Drum. This type of drum is very portable and is a favourite for women.
Chickadee Songwriter’s Circle
October9@7:30inthe
LawrenceHall
Standard: $35 +feesandtaxes
Students: $2975
Twoiconicvoices. Oneunforgettableevening.
$65 +feesandtaxes
ExperiencetheheartofSaskatchewan’s musicsceneasaward-winningsingersongwriterssharethestage-andtheirstories. Inthisintimate,acousticshowcase,each artisttakesa turnrevealingtheinspiration behindtheiroriginalsongs,thenbrings themtolifeinraw,powerfulperformances. Stripped-downandsoulful,thissongwriter circlechannelsthespiritofNashville’s legendaryBluebirdCafé-whereeverylyric countsandeverymelodytells astory. FeaturingCodieProvost,JordynPollard andDarylAnderson
Grammy-winnerPaulaCole (“IDon’tWanttoWait,”“WhereHave AlltheCowboysGone?”)bringsher soul-stirringblendoffolk,pop,andjazz. Platinum-sellingartistSophieB.Hawkins (“Damn IWishI WasYourLover,” “AsI LayMeDown”)sharesherbold, emotionalstorytellingand magneticstagepresence.
Together,theydeliver anightoftimeless hits,rawtruth,andfierceartistry.
