Regional News-Optimist April 15, 2021

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Valleyview Towers tenant files $30,000 claim against housing authority

Majestic Eagle

Second-hand smoke complaint

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

There are more complaints about living conditions at Valleyview Tower II in North Battleford, and this time the issue is heading to a residential tenancies hearing.

The News-Optimist has learned a claim has been filed with the Office of Residential Tenancies against Battlefords Housing Authority by a tenant at Valleyview Towers II over living conditions at the housing complex.

The claim filed by Les Turner is for $30,000 alleging pain, suffering, aggravation, mental anguish and loss of quality of life.

According to the document, it is claimed that Battlefords Housing Authority breached its residential tenancy agreement due to second-hand smoke in the building.

Turner’s claim alleges that last summer, the Housing Authority “decided to locate the ‘designated smoking area’ immediately below the window where the air intake was

for my air conditioner. The window was less than 3 m directly above the smokers.

When I ran my air conditioner my suite filled with secondhand smoke to the point I could not breathe.”

Turner alleges he voiced his concerns to management “no less than a dozen times.” “All my complaints fell on deaf ears. Housing management told me if I didn’t like it, I should make an application to move.

They told me since it was my idea to move, I would have to pay a $200 movein fee.”

Ultimately, Turner was given the option to move to a new suite in the same building without paying the transfer fee.

But he alleges that during the winter the smoke situation “got completely out of hand” and that the second hand smoke smell has gotten worse throughout the building.

According to an accompanying letter from a doctor from Sask. Health Authority, Turner suffers from respiratory failure and requires home oxygen, and should not be exposed

to second hand smoke or inhaled irritants.

In speaking to the News-Optimist, Turner further alleges that smoking is a widespread issue at the building.

“They’ve got no smoking signs all over this building and everybody smokes in their apartments,” he said.

Another issue for the claimant is that Valleyview Towers II is the only venue with a storage unit for his scooter, making it difficult to move out.

Valleyview Towers have been the subject of complaints and a letterwriting campaign over the past couple of years, with reports of disorderly conduct, damage, frequent visits by police to respond to incidents, and other issues at the venue.

The date of the residential tenancies hearing has not yet been officially confirmed, but it is expected to happen in Saskatoon within the next month. The claim was expected to be served upon Battlefords Housing Authority this week.

Northern Saskatchewan is one of the world’s largest nesting grounds for the bald eagle. At this time of year, adult eagles are often seen around the Battlefords on their way to the nesting grounds. This scene was captured as an eagle was landing on a power pole near Turtleford. Adult eagles have an eight-foot wingspan. They eat mainly fish, muskrats, other small mammals, water birds and carrion. They often steal fish from another great hunter, the osprey. They are majestic and are the national emblem for the United States of America. Notice the sharp beak and talons on this fine specimen. Photo by Jim McLane

N.B. man gets 20 months in prison for child luring

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A North Battleford man was given a 20-month prison sentence for child luring.

Oakley Blackstar, 63, was sentenced in Saskatoon Provincial Court on April 6. Charges of sexual assault and child porn

were stayed.

After Blackstar is released from prison he will be on probation for three years. He must also submit a DNA sample.

Blackstar was arrested by the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) in September 2020 after ICE received a complaint about a man enticing a 16-year-old girl

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The ICE investigation identified the girl who said a man took her to his hotel room in June and sexually assaulted her. The investigation also revealed that the man Continued on Page 2

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‘Your behaviour was disgusting’ judge tells Westside gang member at sentencing

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A Westside Outlaws street gang member from North Battleford was handed a 720-day prison sentence for her part in two separate incidents.

Tonia Cantel, 22, pleaded guilty to three charges on April 13 in Meadow Lake Provincial Court.

“Quite frankly, Ms. Cantel, your behaviour was disgusting and I don’t mind being that blunt,” said Judge M. Segu before sentencing Cantel.

“What the three of you did was indefensible, and, but for the joint submission that is being put before the court, I would have zero hesitation imposing a longer sentence. Do you understand me? This behaviour is just atrocious.”

Cantel’s defence Laura Nischuk and Crown Prosecutor William Lewison, entered a joint-submission to the court.

Cantel pleaded guilty to stealing a Honda Civic and being an occupant of the Honda knowing there was a firearm in the vehicle in an incident stemming from Nov. 20, 2020, where five Westside Outlaws street

gang members took RCMP on a 150-km, two-hour chase.

She also pleaded guilty to stealing a Ford SUV and using violence in an incident in Big Island Lake on Nov. 1, 2020.

The Crown stayed the remaining charges against her.

Nov. 20 incident The Crown told the court that at about 3 p.m. on Nov. 20, 2020, the Maidstone RCMP were called to a report of a stolen vehicle in Lashburn. The owner had left his vehicle running and unlocked at the Esso while he ran inside. When he came out he saw his vehicle being driven away by three to four people all dressed in red.

RCMP located the Honda on Highway 16 and attempted a traffic stop but the car was travelling at a very high rate of speed and police decided not to pursue for public safety concerns. Saskatchewan RCMP Highway Patrol spotted it next and didn’t pursue either because of the high rate of speed the vehicle was travelling.

They lost sight of the vehicle.

Shortly after, a school bus driver called RCMP to

say he found a sawed-off shotgun on a road.

RCMP spotted the Honda, still travelling at a high rate of speed, near Paradise Hill. They notified the Turtleford RCMP Detachment, who set up spike belts on Township Road 540. The Honda ran over the spike belt and kept driving for a short distance before coming to a stop.

Lewison said that a young offender exited from the driver’s side, Tonia Cantel, Kyle Lajimodiere, Juanita Wahpistikwan, and another young offender exited from the passenger side.

“All five individuals were wearing red and are known by the RCMP to be members of the Westside Outlaws Street gang,” said Lewison, adding, “red is the colour associated with Westside.”

All five were taken into custody without incident.

In the trunk, police found ammunition and a sawedoff .22, which had its serial number partially scratched off.

Nov. 1 incident The Crown told the court that on Nov. 1, 2020, at around 4:45 a.m., several people were partying at a house on Big Island

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Lake. Tonia Cantel and Memory Sandfly got into an argument with Raquel Sundown. Sundown and three other people left and got into her vehicle, which was parked outside. That’s when Cantel, Sandfly and a young offender – all members of Westside Outlaws street gang – came out of the house and approached the vehicle. Sandfly and Cantel told Sundown not to leave and opened the driver’s door of the vehicle before pulling out Sundown. They threw her to the ground and the young offender pushed against the passenger door so those inside the vehicle couldn’t get out and help Sundown.

Cantel and Sandfly started kicking and stomping on Sundown’s arm and shoulder. Cantel got into the driver’s seat of the vehicle and started to drive the vehicle and ran over Sundown’s leg as she lay on the ground.

Lewison said Cantel didn’t intend to run over Sundown but that was the consequence of her actions when she tried driving away. Cantel drove about half a block when one of Sundown’s passengers, still in the back seat, reached around and grabbed Cantel by the neck. This forced Cantel to stop the vehicle.

Another person with Sundown was able to run to the vehicle, open the door and pull Cantel out of the vehicle. Cantel, the young offender and Memory Sandfly fled the scene.

Sundown was taken to the hospital with a broken collar and shinbone.

Aggravating factors Crown Prosecutor Lewison said Cantel has 20 prior convictions.

“There’s a number of extreme offences for violence on her record,” he said.

Lewison said Sundown’s injuries are an aggravating factor.

In the incident where the vehicle was stolen from Lashburn, Lewison said an aggravating factor was Cantel’s association with the Westside Outlaws street gang.

Mitigating factors Nischuk told the court there are a number of Gladue factors for the court to consider when sentencing Cantel.

Cantel’s mother and grandmother both attended residential school.

Her father raised Cantel until she was six-years-old, at which time he died. She then went to live with her grandmother for two years until her grandmother died. Cantel didn’t have a relationship with her mother, who suffered from addiction, so Cantel was put into foster care at age eight.

“She was in four different homes and experienced physical and sexual abuse in those homes,” said Nischuk, adding Cantel often ran away.

Cantel has drug addiction issues and is willing to consider treatment if offered.

Nischuk acknowledged that being a member of Westside Outlaws is an aggravating factor but said Cantel wants to leave the gang.

“It’s not something she wants to continue. She recognizes that association is what is getting her into these situations. She has insight that having these negative peer associations is not helping her and it is putting her in these situations.

“She is very motivated to join STR8UP,” said Nischuk. STR8UP is a non-profit group that helps gang members leave the lifestyle.

“She is here before the court taking responsibility for what she can,” said Nischuk.

Sentencing Judge M. Segu asked

Cantel if she had anything to say before he sentenced her. Cantel, who appeared

by CCTV from Pinegrove Correctional Centre in Prince Albert, remained silent.

“All right, then let me say something to you,” said Judge Segu.

“This is the victim impact statement from Raquel Sundown whose leg you ran over. ‘I became depressed because I wasn’t able to do everyday tasks, or anything. I was angry and sad so I often pushed away loved ones; angry because the pain was unbearable sometimes and sad because I felt like a waste of space. You left me with a fractured tibia and a broken shoulder blade, which was painful and uncomfortable to do anything involving the right side of my body. I stayed in the hospital for five days. The third day I had surgery done on my leg. I was prescribed (numerous narcotics for pain). I have monthly check-ups to see if my leg is working.’

“What do you have to say about that Ms. Cantel?” asked Judge Segu.

Cantel spoke a few words, which were inaudible.

Judge Segu then told Cantel, “Well I don’t know if you ever had your leg run over, I haven’t but I can imagine it must be excruciatingly painful; all in the context of a group attack on a defenseless person.

And then compounding it you attempt to steal her vehicle.”

Cantel was sentenced to 720 days in prison. With time served, she has 507 days left to serve.

Judge Segu banned Cantel from owning weapons for 10 years and ordered her to provide a DNA sample for the national DNA data bank.

Child luring

Blackstar as the suspect.

Police located and arrested him in North Battleford. Police seized his cell phone for further forensic analysis.

The Saskatchewan ICE

Unit consists of investigators from the RCMP, Regina Police Service, Saskatoon Police Service, and Prince Albert Police Service. They investigate crimes involving the abuse and/or exploitation of children on the Internet.

Continued from Page 1 was grooming the girl through the exchange of naked pictures after they became online friends.

The ICE Unit identified

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For more court and crime coverage visit our website at www. newsoptimist. ca

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 3

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Gathering sizes reduced, new restrictions

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

New restrictions are in place in Saskatchewan as the province continues to see high numbers of new COVID-19 cases.

At the latest provincial news conference on Tuesday, Health minister Paul Merriman announced household bubbles are being limited to immediate households, effective immediately.

As well, the new Public Health Order reduces attendance at places of worship to no more than 30 people, effective

12:01 a.m. on Friday April 16.

“The level of transmission remains too high in some parts of our province,” said Merriman.

“We had hoped to avoid reinstating these restrictions but it’s something we need to do for a few more weeks until we get more people vaccinated.”

These measures are province-wide, and Merriman said that until more people are vaccinated there is still a chance of catching COVID-19.

“While we have been focusing on Regina and the south of the province, we must now

News-Optimist up for SWNA awards

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The Battlefords Regional News-Optimist is once again nominated for awards in the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association “Better Newspapers” competition.

The News-Optimist is nominated for Best All Around newspaper in Class D - Circulation Over 6,500.

Both reporters John Cairns and Lisa Joy received reporting nominations. Joy is nominated for Best News Story of the Year for “State of emergency responds to suicide, unemployment, crime, drug addiction,” her reporting on the situation at Onion Lake.

Cairns is nominated for Best Government Coverage for his series “City looking to put pandemic policy in place,” about City Hall’s efforts to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are extremely proud of both John and Lisa,” said Gordon Brewerton, publisher.

“John is consistently recognized by his peers in the industry. His indepth look at the ways the city was dealing with COVID-19 is truly award-worthy. Lisa is a relative newcomer to the News-Optimist, but her experience dealing with

often difficult subject matter has been rightfully recognized as a finalist for News Story of the Year.”

Our sister paper the Unity-Wilkie PressHerald also was nominated. Helena Long was nominated for Best Black and White Photo and also Best Agricultural Coverage - Single Story or Feature, for her story “Could steam be the answer?”

Sherri Solomko was nominated for Best Health/Healthcare coverage for “Thanks to organ donation, the beat goes on.”

The nominations came during what was a challenging year in reporting the news while under public health restrictions. The restrictions meant a shift to remote working, as well as coverage of news conferences and meetings virtually by phone or using online software like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

“Our reporters have set the bar high when it comes to local reporting. Our communities should be proud of them,” said News-Optimist editor, Jayne Foster. “I know we here at Battlefords Publishing are.”

The SWNA annual meeting and awards presentation is expected to take place in May.

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take further action to prevent transmission throughout the province,” said Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab.

Dr. Shahab said now was the time to “do everything possible keep numbers low throughout the province”, to give vaccines a chance to make a dent.

There is also news of another reduction in the age for booking vaccination appointments online or by telephone. It is is being lowered from 55 to 52 effective at 8 a.m. Wednesday, and is also being lowered to 40 in the far North.

The Regina COVID-19 vaccine drive thru has lowered the age eligibility to include all residents aged 49-54 years only. It is open to first come first serve between 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily at Evraz Place.

As well, vaccinations have been expanded this week to include a number of priority groups including frontline workers. Merriman says this is being done without compromising the speed of their age-based vaccination program.

“Saskatchewan continues to stick it to COVID faster than any province in Canada,”

Merriman said. “We have now delivered almost 300,000 vaccinations and over 70,000 shots were done over the last week.”

The province has now done vaccinations on half of those age 50 and over, and Merriman says their age based approach is working well, getting as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible.

They are also expanding the list of clinically extremely vulnerable individuals who can be vaccinated right away to include pregnant women, and 16 and 17 year olds who meet the criteria.

Councillors want local contractors involved in trunk main bid

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The issue of having local contractors bid on the sanitary sewer trunk main project came to council Monday night.

It was raised by Councillor Thomas “Bill” Ironstand, who indicated he wanted to see administration bring back information for a vote on how local firms could have the opportunity to bid on the trunk main project.

In particular, he wanted to know how council might “waive the requirement to have these companies previously work on a largescale project” — which seems to have tripped up the ability of local firms to make a bid.

Ironstand said he was not asking to give the project to local companies

— just to give them the opportunity to bid. The local companies are “our tax base,” he said, adding they would also be in a better position to fix problems later. “If something goes wrong, the local companies will be there within hours,” said Ironstand.

But City Manager Randy Patrick responded they can’t give a local preference to this project.

The problem, he said, is that council had already agreed to the engineers’ advice on rules put in place for selecting a bidder for the $15 million project.

The first step was a pre-qualification evaluation process to determine which firms were qualified to do the project. Based on that, four firms — two from Saskatchewan and two from Alberta — met

the criteria and are qualified to make a bid.

Those four firms now are able to move forward with the next step, which is the tender.

If council had wanted to change the rules it needed to be done much earlier, Patrick said — at the front end.

“It can’t be made after the fact, because we’ve already had companies now put their investment into this for following the rules that we set out at the beginning. We simply can’t change it without significant issues from a contracting perspective.”

There was considerable sentiment around the table, however, for having local companies involved. Mayor David Gillan indicated he agreed with Ironstand’s point, saying not allowing local firms to bid was “a

problem for me.”

Others expressed concern as well. Councillor Kelli Hawtin noted there were two local firms that teamed up to try and put in a bid, and wanted to know if they were evaluated as part of the process.

Ironstand believed the city could still be able to adjust the rules, saying they had the power to evaluate requests for proposals.

“We do have the ability to change things,” said Ironstand, adding “this is our tax base, these people, these companies, their families.” He added he’s had people reach out to him on the issue.

In response, Patrick said he could get a legal opinion and provide it to council on the issue. That will come back to a future council meeting.

Capitol Theatre closes again, cites patrons not following the protocols

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The Capitol Theatre in downtown North Battleford last announced it is closing – again.

This was not an easy decision, they stated at their Facebook page. This had been their busiest time since the pandemic started, and they had reported sell-

outs for the new hit movie “Godzilla vs. Kong.”

But the increased business ended up creating some big issues for the theatre’s staff in dealing with people who were not following the rules.

“Unfortunately we had some people who ‘forgot their mask,’ didn’t follow the social distancing guidelines, didn’t sanitize

when entering, some were eating or drinking at the concession, having to remind some to put their mask on when they leave the theatre, people sitting in the wrong seats etc.,” they stated.

“This past week we felt disrespected with all those who chose not to follow the guidelines.”

The Capitol stated their

number one priority was staff and customer safety.

“We have two staff members with compromised immune systems and with the new variant we need to be proactive in our actions.”

The Capitol emphasized the closure is temporary and that they will still be selling popcorn, with popcorn sales between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Fridays.

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Commentary

Why a global approach to corporate taxation makes sense

The commentaries offered on this editorial page are intended to provide thought-provoking material for our readers.

Contributors’ articles, cartoons or letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any Regional News-Optimist staff.

Global taxation schemes always stall because fiscal policies are seen as ways for governments to influence their economies

By Sylvain Charlebois

Professor in Food Distribution and Policy Dalhousie University

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

Nobody wants to hear about higher taxes. It’s an unpopular and counterintuitive notion to those who believe taxation is a call of death for economies looking for growth.

But the world is different now, which is why United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s call for a minimum corporate tax to stop the so-called race to the bottom is an interesting one.

The G20 corporate tax average went from 33 per cent in 2000 to roughly 27 per cent in 2020. For Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, the average went from 33 to 23 per cent.

Over the last two decades, depending on who was in charge in any given country, the temptation to lower corporate taxes and increase foreign direct investments at times has been overwhelming.

What the U.S. is proposing is a 21 per cent minimum federal corporate tax rate, coupled with eliminating exemptions on income from countries that don’t enact a minimum tax to discourage offshoring of jobs.

Given the slim margins, the food industry has certainly been influenced by fluctuating corporate tax rates in recent years. Restaurant Brands International is essentially a Canadian company because of a tax inversion play to create a holding company that includes Burger King, Popeyes and, of course, Tim Hortons. When Donald Trump lowered corporate taxes in the U.S. while president, the urge to go south only grew.

But now the world appears to be of the mind that it’s time to think more broadly. The European Union and Canada are willing to discuss the issue.

However, an agreement among industrialized countries might not be easy. Corporate tax rates vary widely from nine per cent in Hungary and 12.5 in Ireland, to 32 per cent in France and Germany, to 31.5 per cent in Portugal. The combined corporate income tax rates in Canada and the U.S. are at 26 per cent. Rate differentials are substantial and the revenue base for governments to be sacrificed are significant.

Conversations about subsidies are also necessary.

Levelling tax rates is one thing but countries also tend to offer sweet subsidies to attract investments. Maple Leaf Foods opted to build a new plant in Indiana after being offered a generous public subsidy exceeding US$50 mil-

Regional

lion.

Taxing companies that make profits even if they don’t have a physical presence in a country – like Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple – has been a goal of OECD countries for years. Yet talks about global taxation schemes have always stalled, essentially because fiscal policies are often seen as highly guarded instruments that governments have at their disposal to influence their economies.

Complying with any international guidance on tax rates would mean letting go of some fiscal sovereignty.

Moreover, the politics of changing tax regimes in some countries, including Canada, would be a huge undertaking.

Still, in the post-COVID-19 era, we should expect more global policy co-ordination. The pandemic has made many governments and, frankly, most of us realize the obvious. Health, economic and environmental risks know no borders, and methods to mitigate these risks merit a more holistic view.

Countries can pursue nationalistic agendas on a variety of issues but our collective consciousness, specific to how some decisions impact other parts of the world, now has a different frame of reference.

For the food sector, Canada has seen its share of nearshoring or onshoring in recent months. Kraft Heinz is reinvesting in Montreal, building a new plant for its ketchup brand. AB InBev announced recently it was going to brew Corona and Stella Artois beers in London, Ont. Lovingly Made Ingredients, a United Kingdombased vegetable protein manufacturer, opened a new

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facility in Calgary. European giant Roquette opened the world’s largest pea protein plant in Portage la Prairie, Man., a few months ago.

After years of seeing many food manufacturing jobs disappear in Canada, this new wave of investments is certainly welcome.

A global push for more carbon pricing and a better appreciation for the inherent risks in the supply chain are likely enticing companies to rethink how and where manufacturing plants ought to be built.

This new systemic way of thinking is giving Canada a competitive advantage. Corporations already appear to be assessing risks very differently. It’s time for governments to catch up.

The generations severely affected by the pandemic will perceive risks differently than citizens who have been largely spared COVID’s wrath. Citizens who pay a lot of taxes will expect governments to set up mechanisms not only to mitigate clear and present dangers, but also future ones from abroad.

Whether it’s about setting up a minimum corporate tax rate among OECD countries or something else, our selfish ways of governing are no longer viable given the global risks we must manage.

Yellen’s effort is a good one, even if it doesn’t amount to much of anything. Harmonized global policy thinking is needed more than ever.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agrifood analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. www.troymedia.com Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 5

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Cockrill speaks on budget in the Legislature Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill spoke in the legislature Wednesday of last week, as he announced his support for the provincial budget by seconding the budget motion of the Minister of Finance.

In his lengthy remarks, Cockrill voiced support for several of the measures announced by finance minister Donna Harpauer on Tuesday. What follows are some highlights of what Cockrill said on the budget on Wednesday afternoon, as recorded in Hansard.

Mr. Cockrill: — ... So now, Mr. Speaker, to the topic at hand, the 2021-2022 budget. This is a budget, Mr. Speaker, that is focused on protecting, building, and growing Saskatchewan. In the face of COVID-19, which has been one of the most significant challenges that our society has faced in recent decades, our government has been there to protect Saskatchewan.

On the COVID-19 front, in this budget there is one and a half billion dollars dedicated to protecting lives and livelihoods here in this province. And this will help ensure that our health care system will continue to be ready to protect us here in this province.

Now, Mr. Speaker, over the last year, protecting and serving our seniors has been highlighted, and this budget makes a number of significant investments to that end. We’re going to be hiring 100 new continuing care aids in the next year, something that we committed to doing in the fall election campaign.

Promise made, promise kept, Mr. Speaker.

We have reduced ambulance fees by over half for seniors in this province.

Another promise kept. And we are making significant capital investments in long-term care facilities in this province, and that will help us protect seniors well into the future.

Now, Mr. Speaker, these two items didn’t receive much attention yesterday, but I would like to highlight them. I’d like to highlight these two investments that I believe will go a long ways in protecting the people of this province.

Firstly, Mr. Speaker, I’m thrilled to see the creation of another PACT [police and crisis team] team in Saskatchewan, this time in Estevan. I know from speaking with the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] in my home constituency of The Battlefords, having a PACT team makes local policing more efficient and helps to better address mental health challenges as police respond to calls.

There is also increased funding to enhance the provincial internet child exploitation units. This will help to support po-

J

ohn Cairns

LEG WATCH newsoptimist.john@sasktel.net

Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill spoke in the legislature last week in support the provincial budget. Screenshot by John Cairns

lice as they seek to protect vulnerable children, and Mr. Speaker, I think that’s money well spent in this province.

Cockrill also voiced support for adding four more international offices to increase Saskatchewan exports. And he spoke about the commitment of $15 million to VIDOInterVac’s [Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization-international vaccine centre] Saskatoon facility, as well as the five-year extension of the Saskatchewan technology start-up initiative.

And, Mr. Speaker, this diversification of our economy, paired with growing agricultural and manufacturing exports, is giving Saskatchewan that increased economic capacity. And, Mr. Speaker, what follows growing economic capacity? What follows is an increasing quality of the public services that we enjoy in this province.

It means new highways, an increased investment in a variety of transportation infrastructure across Saskatchewan. Mr. Speaker, it means new schools — 16 of them, actually — and it also means major renovation projects in school divisions all over Saskatchewan, including one in my home constituency in The Battlefords.

And we are really excited, Mr. Speaker, to see the historic John Paul II Collegiate about to undergo a major renovation project.

And, Mr. Speaker, it also means more long-term care beds for improved care for our seniors and hiring those CCAs to staff those facilities. It means new hospitals in Weyburn and Prince Albert, and it means growing our government’s investment in mental health treatment options across this province.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the budget that we have developed and that the Minister of Finance presented yesterday. I think she presented it eloquently. And, Mr. Speaker, I’ve tried to add a few helpful comments here today, along with a perspective on the budget for my area of the province.

Cockrill spent a good deal of time slamming the opposition’s continual call for lockdowns.

Now I’m looking forward to hearing more from members on both sides of the House, Mr. Speaker.

However, I am curious to hear from members opposite how their comments or feedback or criticisms will square with their repeated calls over the last number of months to shut down our economy. Most of the members opposite have called for job-killing, circuit-breaker lockdowns, all while criticizing the employment numbers in this province, which, by the way, Mr. Speaker, are some of the best in the country.

Now, Mr. Speaker, as someone who has worked their whole career in small business, it just doesn’t make sense to me that closing down helps small businesses. How do you plan? How do you schedule staff? What do you tell customers? And as someone who has employed people, I find the opposition’s insistence on lockdowns infuriating.

And I know that hardworking small-business owners across this province and in The Battlefords agree. I know that because I’ve talked to them, Mr. Speaker. You see, smallbusiness owners and entrepreneurs across this province have seen the adversity from COVID-19 as an opportunity to sharpen their business model and improve the way that they serve customers, but you

can’t do that if you’re shut down, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, based on what the members opposite have said publicly over the last number of months, I expect that they will attempt to paint this province as lost. They’ll attempt to paint this province as perhaps lacking hope for the future. And, Mr. Speaker, I just don’t see it that way. Yes, Mr. Speaker, we are currently in the throes of an incredible public health challenge, and I don’t make my comments to minimize that reality.

And, Mr. Speaker, I don’t say this to undermine the absolutely commendable work done by front-line workers across this province. They have answered the call for the people of Saskatchewan time and time again, and they continue to do that every day. And we thank them for that.

But I stand here today, Mr. Speaker, and second this budget motion with a deep sense of hopefulness about Saskatchewan. By and large, our government has walked the balance of restrictions and freedoms as best as we could see how, and the numbers bear that out in seeing the fastest vaccine rollout in this country.

Mr. Speaker, speaking

personally, my father-inlaw received his vaccine yesterday in The Battlefords, and that gives me a great sense of peace.

I have another relative and a friend receiving their first dose today in The Battlefords, and after these constituents get their dose, they text me. They say, I just feel so much better. And I hear that sentiment from other people in The Battlefords.

Cockrill ended his remarks on an optimistic note. ...Mr. Speaker, as vaccines are becoming more widely available, there is hope. That’s why I’m feeling hopeful. There is hope for family dinners together and visiting your loved ones and seeing your kids. And there is hope for vacations in sunny destinations and having your customers walk back through your And given that hope,

Mr. Speaker, I believe that we must go forward boldly.

And I think of my family who many generations ago settled in the Mayfair area and homesteaded, and I think, did they give up after a tough year? And, Mr. Speaker, I won’t tell the full story, but no they didn’t.

They planted again and kept working. So we must, we must, Mr. Speaker, go forward boldly to continue building and growing this province, building the economic capacity that fuels opportunity for individuals and families across this province and ensures a robust set of public services in Saskatchewan.

And, Mr. Speaker, I see this vision so clearly articulated in the 20212022 budget. I’m proud to second the motion made by the member from Humboldt-Watrous and I will be supporting the motion.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

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There is hockey in Heaven now that Colby is there

By Jayne Foster Editor

At a Celebration of Life for Colby Cave, Pastor Joshua Kimes said the Colby he knew was a man of character, kindness, quiet confidence, fun and faith. He was down to earth, and “he was madly in love with Emily.”

Saturday, the Edmonton Oilers hosted a livestream celebration of life honouring former player Colby Cave, who died a year ago from a brain bleed. The former Battlefords resident was remembered by Colby’s wife Emily, members of the Cave family, the Oilers organization and others.

“Had I known that I would eventually become his widow just less than nine months after our dreams come true ... I would only have run faster down the aisle to him,” said Emily of marrying the love of her life.

Cave is a former Battlefords AAA Star and a hometown hero for aspiring minor hockey players.

“Cave made a lasting impact both on and off the ice with the Edmonton Oilers and the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors, and before that with the Boston Bruins organization and the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos. Cave was a consummate professional, well-respected by teammates and opponents alike. He was also a committed and positive member of the communities in which he played, eagerly volunteering for charitable initiatives and always stopping to say hi to fans,” says the Edmonton Oilers website in its announcement of the Colby Cave Memorial Fund, created by the Cave family and the Oilers new.

Proceeds from the fund will go toward Colby’s Kids – community programs with an emphasis on mental health initiatives via CASA Child, Adolescent and Family Mental Health and providing access to sports for underprivileged children via the former Edmonton Oilers 2nd Shift.

Hockey in Heaven Remarks forming part of Saturday’s celebration of

life were opened by Pastor Joshua Kimes, who said, when he first met Colby, he had no idea who he was, having grown up in Sydney, Australia. But as they got to know each other and became friends, Kimes realized Colby was a “really, really, really good hockey player, and he could fight, too.” He also realized Colby was a “really, really good guy, “ Joshua Kimes The pastor said Colby was passionate about life and about his game. He said if it hadn’t been there before, hockey would be in Heaven now because Colby is there.

Hockey family Edmonton Oilers teammate Patrick Russell said, “It’s hard to say Colby’s name without a smile on your face,” and added that, “If we could all be just a little bit more like Colby, the world would be a better place.”

Russell said texts he exchanged with his teammate when they knew one of the two of them was about to be sent down to the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, truly personify Colby.

When word came that it was Colby who was going to Bakersfield, he tried to make as light of it as possible, said Russell. His text read, “No worries. I’m happy for you. You really deserve it.”

Russell offered condolences to Colby’s family, describing him as a man of principle, integrity and humility.

“He treated everyone with the utmost respect and will always be remembered this way.”

He thanked the family for raising Colby to be the man he was.

“He loved you guys more than anything in this world. He was so proud of his family.”

Russel said the Colby Cave Memorial Fund will carry on the memory and legacy of Colby. He will always be part of the Oilers organization and the hockey family.

He also said, “We will always be there for you.”

Witness to a dream When the six-foot-one, 200-pound Colby made his NHL debut with Boston on Dec. 21, 2017, after get-

Emily Cave spoke at a ceremony honouring her late husband, Colby Cave, livestreamed by the Edmonton Oilers organization Saturday.

Pastor Joshua Kimes said the Colby he knew was a man of character, kindness, quiet confidence, fun and faith.

ting called up from Providence of the AHL, one of his teammates was David Backes, who also spoke as part of the memorial.

Beckes was there for Colby’s first NHL goal. He said Colby basked in pure joy as he huddled with his teammates and soaked up the glory of that first goal – a dream come true.

He remembers also when another dream came true for Colby with the news he may soon be playing for the Oilers, the team he grew up watching.

Through a mother’s eyes Jenn Cave took listeners back to the day Colby was born. He was perfect, his mother said. He looked like his daddy.

Growing up, their son had a large extended family, most of whom

Edmonton Oilers teammate Patrick Russell:“It’s hard to say Colby’s name without a smile on your face.”

lived nearby. He and sister Taylor, the best of buds and playmates, were raised on the farm in a “little old mobile home” and at the lake, their two favourite places lake and farm.

Colby was a typical toddler, said his mother. He wasn’t much of a TV kid, but he loved the movie The Lion King.

“There’s no movie he ever watched more, still loving it as an adult.”

He wasn’t a daredevil, she said, and in trying to think of anything he wasn’t good at, the only think she could come up with is driving, as he totaled two vehicles within six months of getting his licence.

Love of hockey started when he could barely walk, she said.

Continued on Page 7

Former Boston teammate David Backes shared his memory of Colby Cave’s first NHL goal.

Above, left, Jenn Cave, the mother of the late Colby Cave, shared a look at his life growing up in the Battlefords area and his dream of joining the NHL. Centre, Taylor Cave, sister, shared memories from their childhood on the farm. Above right, Colby’s father Alan Cave said his son lived all the articles of he Humboldt Bronco’s Core Covenant.

One of one of the many photos of Colby Cave shared during the Celebration of Life livestream. This and the above screenshots are courtesy of nhl.com/ oilers.

This is from the Facebook page of the Battlefords Trade and Education Centre: “We would like to thank the Gill Family (Emily Cave and family) for sending us money to buy cookies and cake to remember Colby by.” Facebook photo

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riage. She was introduced

by Pastor Joshua Kimes.

He dubbed them the “ginger power couple.”

Emily said, eight years ago, when she was in Ontario, Colby saw her on Instagram and said to a friend he was going to marry that girl one day. After nearly two years of messages, she finally “caved” and decided to talk to him. She knew he was special and they had to meet. She bought a ticket to Providence.

She said she will never forget him picking her up at the airport. He kissed her and told her he was going to marry her one day.

He was right, she said, and she has no regrets.

“Had I known that I would eventually become his widow just less than nine months after our dreams came true ... I would only have run faster down the aisle to him.”

Emily talked about the things she remembers, “things that happen every day that no one else would see:” Car rides singing their hearts out to different playlists; walking their puppy Chester; wondering how Chester would handle sharing attention with a baby when they had one; squeezing hands three times as a way of saying I love you; reading books about adopting an orphan from Haiti; always smiling whether it was a good day or bad day, needing nothing in this crazy world but each other.

“We planned our whole lives thinking we were guaranteed all this time,” she said.

She urged people to “hug your husband or your wife, tell them that you love them, that you are proud of them, annoy them, take the videos and the pictures, cherish every little moment.”

About the outpouring of concern for hers and Colby’s families, she said, “It breaks my heart, but fills it up at the same time watching the whole world seeing how incredible my husband was, not just as a hockey player but as a person.”

She told Colby she will spend the rest of her life trying to make him just as proud as she was of him.

He would have been an incredible dad, said Emily.

“We even picked out our baby names.”

Now, his legacy will be shared with youngsters, Colby’s Kids, through the Colby Cave Memorial Fund.

“I promise we will care for so many kids together, through your memorial fund,” Emily told Colby.

“Those kids will be our kids and our purpose together. You will guide, support and love all of them through me from Heaven.”

Donations to the Colby Cave Memorial Fund are being accepted by the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation. A replay of the Celebration of Life of Colby Cave can be found at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ycgd4szmM3M

LA PR KE IVA LO TE TS

Continued from Page 6 A Halloween bucket became his hockey helmet, as his dad’s helmet was still too big.

“He ate his breakfast with his helmet and cried when he had to take it off,” she said.

He got his first skates when he was three, although the first experience wasn’t his finest.

He started playing hockey at five, and played all his minor hockey in the Battlefords She said they started to see his abilities in his second year. They saw physical talent and team leader qualities.

He didn’t face much adversity until he got to junior hockey and eyed getting to the WHL, she said. That next step was huge, requiring mental and physical maturity. When he was drafted 13th overall in the 2009 Western Hockey League’s bantam draft by the Kootenay Ice it was such an honour, she said, but it also put added pressure on him to perform.

When he was traded to Swift Current, they were glad he was so close, only three hours away. The first year wasn’t easy, she said.

He had to learn a lot, manage school and hockey. But, he took on the challenge of earning the respect of his coach and his teammates.

He became the captain of the Swift Current Broncos.

In the off season, he came home to work at Battlefords Trade and Education Centre. He loved his job, and his coworkers kept him in stitches.

When he wasn’t immediately picked for the NHL, that disappointment became his spark. Colby excelled at everything he put his mind to, his mother said.

When they finally “got the call,” that he would be playing in Boston that night, they were sad they couldn’t be there. In all their years of hockey they’d tried to get to as many games as possible. But they were happy that Emily could get there. From home,they watched their child achieve his dream as he skated out onto the ice.

“Watching a dream come true just doesn’t get better than that,” she said.

When he joined Edmonton’s team, they were excited to again have him so close to home, although he suffered the disappointment of being sent to Bakersfield.

But he pushed through that, she said, and he and Emily enjoyed the weather change, golfed and sought to see and do as much as possible while they were there.

Away from home, in new surroundings, she said, Colby also became a foodie, and developed a love of shopping.

“He loved to be sharply dressed,” she said, and he

even became fond of hats.

Another dream come true was watching him marry the love of his life, Emily, said Colby’s mom.

She described her son as driven, stoic, compassionate, inspirational and genuine, all of which enabled him to become the player and leader everyone looked up to and admired.

Just ‘my brother’ Speaking as part of the memorial, Taylor Cave described herself as Colby’s little sister Tay Tay, or sometimes Poopsie.

She said she never saw him as a profressional athlete, only as “my brother Colb.”

Of her brother, she said, “Everything he did he did with meaning, his hobbies, his jobs his relationships and his interactions.”

She said he never had a conversation that wasn’t meaningful, that he was full of life and adventure there never was a dull moment with him.

“He was a magnet that pulled you in, in the best way.”

As a family they could never have imagined what they have had to go through in the last year, saidbut also could never have prepared us for how impactful he was to so manh people.

She said, “The pain of losing him is an emptiness within me that will never heal.”

Colby was a Bronco His father, Alan Cave, pointed out that Colby was a Bronco, a Swift Current Bronco, but a Bronco nevertheless, and during the last week, they were grateful to the families of fallen Humboldt Broncos who had reached out to them, this also being the third anniversary of the fatal bus crash.

Visibly heartbroken, he recited from the Humboldt Broncos late coach Darcy Haugan’s Core Covenant, saying Colby lived each one of the articles of the covenant: FAMILY first.

Treat my TEAMMATES and COWORKERS with RESPECT. Be THANKFUL for the opportunity to wear the Bronco jersey.

PLAY each game and practice with PASSION and DETERMINATION. Conduct ourselves with HONESTY and INTEGRITY. Treat all volunteers, billets, sponsors and fans with RESPECT and GRATITUDE. Understand that we are building FOUNDATIONS for future generations with our WORDS and ACTIONS. Always have HOPE and BELIEVE that everything is possible.

Always GIVE more than you take.

STRIVE for GREATNESS in all areas of life.

‘Ginger Power Couple’ The last to speak was Emily Cave, widowed less than a year after her mar-

LI S S TE 20 OL D A DAD I N YS N D

Hockey in Heaven

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 7

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

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Administrative Professionals Week April 18-24, 2021

5 ways to thank administrative staff from a distance With so many employees working from home, you may be wondering how to ensure your colleagues get the recognition they deserve during Administrative Professionals Week. Here are five ways to express your gratitude this year, from April 18 to 24.

1. CREATE A COMPILATION VIDEO Ask each of your colleagues to record a personalized message and assemble the clips in a heart-warming video. This will show members of your administrative team that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed.

2. DELIVER A GIFT BASKET Contact local shops and producers to find out if they can put together an assortment of goodies to send to your colleague’s home. Think artisanal cheeses and chutneys, organic skincare products, craft beer and spirits or handmade candles and knitwear.

3. TREAT THEM TO A NIGHT IN Many local restaurants, including some fairly upscale establishments, now offer delivery services. Send your colleague a gift card so they can enjoy a

delicious at-home dinner. Consider dropping off a bottle of locally made wine to complete the meal.

4. FIND A FUN ONLINE CLASS Give your colleague an opportunity to learn a new skill or pursue a hobby from the comfort of their home. Increasingly, local groups are offering virtual courses for activities that range from yoga and fitness to creative writing, cooking and professional development.

5. UPGRADE THEIR HOME OFFICE Show your colleague how much you value their work by helping to make their home office a more comfortable, functional and welcoming space.

Send them a gift card for a home office supply store in their area so they can get exactly what they need.

Remember, even if you don’t see them in person every day, administrative professionals work tirelessly to keep your business running smoothly, and they deserve to be recognized for their dedication this week and throughout the year.

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An immediate or negotiable start date with very competitive salary and benefts.

Due to the focus of the position being to provide services to First Nations individuals in an agency operated by member First Nations, preference will be given to those applicants for this position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 9

April 18-24, 2021

Workplace trends affecting administrative professionals Administrative professionals have seen their roles evolve in the changing face of office employment. While some of the more conventional duties that have long been a part of admins’ jobs remain, many now find their roles expanding. Admins who want to stay a step ahead and improve their career opportunities can hone their skills and keep

abreast of the changing trends.

A survey sponsored by OfficeTeam and the International Association of Administrative Professionals zeroed in on what hiring managers said they consider are key motivators for hiring admins. The survey found that organizational skills, initiative and attention to detail are some of the most impor-

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tant qualities for support professionals to possess.

Some employers now require office professionals be skilled at cloud-based apps, social media, database management, and even website maintenance.

The following are some skills administrative professionals may need to advance their careers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication:

Being bilingual is an added feather in one’s cap.

• Industry experience: Knowledge regarding how a specific industry and/or business works can help admin professionals.

• Customer service skills.

• Filing/billing: An ability to file and/or create financial reports coupled with knowledge regarding how to process invoices

can help admins.

• Flexibility: Admins who can wear many hats are especially attractive candidates to many businesses, as admins may have to fill in for the duties of an office manger or bookkeeper.

• Thirst for knowledge: A desire to continue one’s education, including involving oneself in various seminars or training ses-

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sions particular to the industry, can help admins.

Credentials are soughtafter and include certification in certain industry standard courses.

BYOD trends also are rising. This means workers are able to bring their own digital devices to work.

Admins may be tasked with establishing protocol for security and maintenance of such devices.

Thank You!

For all that you do!

• Amber • Christy • Rhonda • Rhonda S. • Bailey • Kara • Heather

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Thank You!

for your positive impact and continued dedication!

Karen Swanson Marian Milnthorp Leanne Head

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Becky Stroo • Christine Sabraw Tanis Rousseau • Loni Schafer Monica Tetreault • Jayda Morrison Janessa Watch • Madison Phelps for your contribution to our firm

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Peggy Lewis Danielle Pritchard Penny Swindler Sonya Whitecalf

Amber Metlewsky Debra Wuttunee Crystal Tipewan Karen Williams

Dora Sankey Lucinda Night

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Keep up the good work.

• Carol • Vivian • Rachel • Jade

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Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

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The COVID-19 pandemic is not just a global health crisis, it is the biggest shock to the Saskatchewan, Canadian and world economies since the Second World War. Through this budget our government is: protecting Saskatchewan people, building Saskatchewan communities, and growing Saskatchewan’s economy. This is a significant challenge that requires a significant response.

You can learn more at saskatchewan.ca/budget.

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier

Jeremy Cockrill

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

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

Ryan Domotor

MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford domotor.mla@sasktel.net 306-893-2619

Shovels in the ground for Villa Pascal project 20210412_News Optimist Ad_Budget PBG.indd 1

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The shovels are in the ground for the expansion project at Villa Pascal.

Members of the board for the Villa Pascal long term care facility were on hand Thursday for the official start of construction.

The expansion accommodates the growing requirements of clients of Villa Pascal. The building was built about 40 years ago as a level one care facility, and with demographic changes it has moved up to level 4 in some areas.

According to board president Claude Desnoyers, the expansion will address a number of needs. One addition is a palliative care area.

“We have never had a palliative care area,” said Desnoyers. That was

deemed a priority, so Villa Pascal is transforming two of their double-occupancy rooms for a palliative care area.

Villa Pascal is also adding four single-occupancy rooms to the end of the building.

Also, they are building an addition to the dining room area that will expand the dining area, but which also will add an area that can serve as a chapel for services and for physiotherapy as well.

The kitchen will also be expanded, and an office area will be added up front for the administrator to be able to hold meetings in private.

All of this goes toward Villa Pascal’s mission to clients to provide “a good caring environment responding to their physical and psychological needs,”

4/12/2021 10:39:33 AM

Seen at the official sod turning ceremony at Villa Pascal are (left to right): Heather Beatch – administrator; Michel Michaud - vice president of the board; Angele Vany- board member; Yvonne Vany - board member; Lionel Chabot - RMD project manager; Claude Desnoyers - president of the board; Ron Diller - RMD project manager; Albert Blais - board treasurer; Denis Baillargeon- board member. Photo by John Cairns

Desnoyers said.

Lyle V. Schell is the contractor for the over $2

million project, which is expected to last over a year and be finished sometime

in mid-2022. There are plans to launch a fundraising campaign soon to raise

money for the project, with a fundraising goal of $1 million.

Youngest vocalists kick off music festival

By Kelly Waters

Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

Let the show begin! The Battlefords Music Festival opens Monday, April 19 at the Dekker Centre with a vocal session for participants six years and under.

Livestream viewing is at https://www.dekkercentre. com/live_streaming.html making it possible for supporters of these budding artists to vie their performances. Imagine the memorable experience of performing on a professional stage accompanied by a concert grand piano.

Only participants, their teachers, accompanists, adjudicators, volunteers and Dekker Centre staff will be allowed to enter the building. Safety precautions for those attending in person include mask use, contract tracing information, assigned seating, social dis-

Festival Fanfare Battlefords Kiwanis Musical Festival tancing, designated spots for storing instrument cases, no use of backstage areas and frequent sanitizing. Participants are asked to arrive no more than 10 minutes before their session starts.

Ensemble performances are submitting recordings so as to keep the number of people in the theatre at one time to a minimal.

Vocal sessions run in the morning, afternoon, and evening on April 19 with musical theatre performances scheduled dur-

ing the evening session.

Tuesday sessions are in the morning and afternoon with several senior performances scheduled.

Vocal adjudicator, Chris Kelly studied piano and was a member of the Prince Albert Boys Choir, eventually serving as their accompanist and director of junior choirs. He earned a double major, completing performance and academic requirements in both voice and piano at the University of Saskatchewan.

He received a Master of Music in Vocal Perform-

ance from the University of Western Ontario. Chris has been a sessional lecturer in the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Music teaching voice and serving as an accompanist.

He has also taught keyboard skills and musicianship. He maintains a private voice and piano studio and performs regularly in recital, opera and oratorio.

Band and instrumental sessions are scheduled in the morning and afternoon of Wednesday, April 21.

Adjudicator Mark Preece brings band and instrumental expertise. He began playing the tuba at age 12 in the Salvation Army. He is the principal tuba and librarian of the Regina Symphony Orchestra. He has master’s and bachelor’s degrees in music as well as a bachelor’s degree in tuba performance. Preece is in demand as a clinician and Continued on Page 14

Aiden Lake from Radisson has created this year’s winning entry in the Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival art contest. Photo submitted

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 11

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Robyn Silvernagle steps aside, expecting a baby

By John Cairns

Unreserved public equipment auction

Staff Reporter

Robyn Silvernagle is stepping aside temporarily from her curling team as she expects to become a mom.

It was announced Monday that Silvernagle and her husband Chad Guidinger are expecting a child this October.

The good news for the skip also means changes are coming to the Silvernagle team based out of Twin Rivers Curling Club when they return to the ice.

Longtime team member Jessie Hunkin will now move up to skip while Silvernagle is away. As well, Becca Hebert will be joining the team and will take over from Hunkin playing second position.

“We are excited to get back on the ice and get down to business!” the

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The band Feedback will perform in a live stream performance from the Dekker Centre on April 30 at 7 p.m.

Arcands’ band ‘Feedback’ coming to Dekker Centre Staff The Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts have announced upcoming plans for the facility in April, and they include an alternative rock performance.

The band Feedback will perform in a live stream performance on April 30 at 7 p.m.

The band was formed in 1999 and consists of Aaron Arcand on lead/rhythm guitar/lead vocals, Bryan Arcand on bass/backup vocals, and Allison Arcand on drums/backup vocals.

They produced their first album in 2008 including the songs “Took It All Away,” “Wasting Time,” and “She’s My Babe.” The album was nominated for Best Rock Album at the Aboriginal People Choice Awards in Hamilton, Ont. Feedback also performed for upwards of 30,000 people at the Saskatchewan Roughriders halftime show on Sept. 29, 2007, at old Mosaic Stadium.

Both the live stream show as well as a podcast from Battlefords Untapped

begin at 7 p.m. April 30.

The cost of the live stream is pay what you will.

The other news is that the Lawrence Hall will not be available to rent until September 2021, due to a long-term rental that the Dekker Centre has acquired. It is known that the Dekker Centre is booked as an upcoming vaccination site for COVID-19 starting April 12.

Box Office hours are being changed to accommodate the booking, running Tuesday to Thursday from noon to 4 p.m. daily.

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Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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2021 a revaluation year for property tax system With 2021 being a revaluation year for tax purposes, properties in Saskatchewan have been revalued. and at this time of year most municipalities have their assessment rolls open and property owners have the opportunity to appeal their assessments.

The Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) is an independent agency that has developed an assessment system and is tasked by the provincial government to provide property valuation services to local governments.

Through SAMAView, land owners are able to check their valuations and compare them to others and every four years there’s a valuation year where SAMA updates all the values for all properties in the province to ensure they’re current—2021 is a valuation year.

SAMA CEO Irwin Blank says the agency started over 30 years ago when the province wanted to provide municipal governments with a better property assessment process.

“SAMA was actually the creation of the recommendation of a committee called the Local Government Finance Commission that was created by the provincial government in

the early 1980s in recognition of the fact that the property assessment system was not being given the level of attention that local governments thought it should be given,” said SAMA CEO Irwin Blank.

“So the Local Government Finance Commission recommended that an agency like SAMA be created that would be governed by a board of directors and the government agreed.

“In 1987, SAMA was created with the passage of the Assessment Management Agency Act and we have a board of directors who govern us and the majority of the board members were elected officials from local governments— urban and rural municipalities—with the minority being appointed representatives from the province.”

The revenue created through property taxes via SAMA’s assessment system is a key cog in municipal governments’ funding with a large chunk of it being poured into the education sector at a local level.

“SAMA is responsible through our board of directors for establishing the formulas, the rules, and the procedures that are used to establish assessed values that are used for property tax assessments for every property in Saskatchewan,” he said.

“That assessment currently provides over $2.1 billion in annual revenue to local governments—that’s both municipalities and the edu-

cation sector each year.

“It’s very substantial, it’s the major source of revenue for most municipalities that they use to sustain all of the necessary community functions, to keep things rolling. About $750 million of that $2.1 billion goes to the education sector, that represents just under 40 per cent of the total kindergarten to grade 12 operational funding for the education system—you can imagine what the education system would be like without that revenue to support it. Our assessment system essentially provides that predictable—hopefully stable—financial foundation for local governments to utilize to give revenue to sustain their communities.

That’s why we exist.”

Having developed a thorough system to evaluate property worth through multiple formulas, SAMA doesn’t need to have their appraisers travel to every property in the province to develop the valuation number unless there’s a physical change on the property reported by the municipal government says Blank.

“We’ve got a team of over 100 assessment appraisers that all have particular training and they’re fully licensed and accredited—which you need to be to undertake valuations in Saskatchewan,” he said.

“They actually go out at the request of municipalities to check whenever there’s new properties that are built or renovations are 21043BS0

The revenue created through property taxes via SAMA’s assessment system is a key cog in municipal governments’ funding with a large chunk of it being poured into the education sector at a local level

done on a property or a subdivision is developed or if something is torn down.

When those things happen, we’re asked by the municipality to go out and check those properties and collect the physical characteristics of those properties.

“Also, on an ongoing basis, every week we get all the sales that occurred through information services corporation of any properties in any municipalities we serve and we’re continually validating those sales. We utilize that information to establish market rates which we apply to the physical data we collect. The assessment system is an ongoing process of collecting and keeping physical data up to date for all properties and

utilizing market evidence combined with cost information to establish assessments that are supposed to be reflective of the average selling price of those properties as of a particular point in time, which we call our valuation base date.

“Once every four years we update that valuation base date—we don’t go out and physically check all the properties once every four years, but once every four years we look at all the current marketing information based on all of the sales that occurred over the previous four year period,” he said.

“We then use that updated sales information to update assessments to reflect that more current

valuation base date.”

Due to many communities throughout Saskatchewan being rural, it can be difficult to use surrounding sales information to determine property worth. Blank explains that’s why SAMA has developed a system using specific formulas to help with the process.

“In most municipalities in Saskatchewan we’re applying what we call the cost approach,” he said.

“The cost approach is considered the best approach to use in areas where you don’t have a huge amount of sales information and you don’t have a huge number of properties that are actively leased/rented in the market where the buyers of properties are actually buying those properties to get that rental income.

“In most small communities you don’t have enough properties that fit those categories so then the standard approach followed there is to determine what it would cost to reconstruct those properties and we have cost guides and manuals that provide that cost information.

Anything that would be associated with the cost to construct a property would be things that we consider as part of establishing the assessed values. So we see what it would cost to build that property new and then we ask how old that property is. How many years ago was it built? What condition is it in? Good, average, or poor? That then effects Continued on Page 13

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Revaluation

Continued from Page 12 how much depreciation we apply to that particular replacement cost to determine how much the depreciated replacement cost is. To that we add the known value based on whatever sales information we can get—it’s primarily on vacant land sales in the area.

“So we know land in the area is selling for this much, we know the replacement cost of the property is this much and we’ve depreciated it, and the final step in the process is to look at actual sales of those kinds of properties from that area over the previous four year period leading up to the base date,” he said.

“With that we look at on average when these properties are selling, are they selling for the full replacement cost plus depreciation and the land value? Are they selling for a little more than that?

Are they selling for a little less than that? And we adjust the cost based assessments using what we call a market adjustment factor to bring them in line with what the selling prices are telling us is the average selling price of those kind of properties in that area. That’s how we come up with the assessments.”

When SAMA’s property assessments come out, land owners are able

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 13

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to review them and have a window to decide if they want to appeal them. Blank says every municipality in Saskatchewan has a local board appointed to hear these challenges from land owners.

“In a revaluation year— this year is a revaluation year—we’re updating all the values for all properties to reflect a more current valuation base date.

In 2021, all the new assessments are going to be reflective of what most properties are selling for on average as of January 1, 2019,” he said.

“That’s a four year move from what last year’s assessments were supposed to reflect—the 2020 assessments were supposed to reflect the average value of those properties as of January 1, 2015, which had been in place for the previous four years. In a revaluation year, the opportunity for people to inquire and potentially challenge their assessments is doubled from a non-revaluation year.

“From the time that assessments are placed on an assessment roll and advertised as being available for review, property owners have 60 days to review that property assessment and ask questions about it—which they can do any time—and they can also go on our SAMAView website which provides free access to any property owner across the province to look

at their assessments and compare it against their neighbours’ assessments.

If they’re satisfied their assessment is fair, that’s where the process usually ends, but if they look at it and think something isn’t right, they can challenge it and have a 60-day period to launch an appeal with their local board of revision—a group of local folks the municipality would appoint to sit as a board of revision.

“Before the board of revision happens, there’s usually a process where our assessment appraiser will contact whoever appealed the property and try to find out what their concerns were and if an error was made,” he said.

“Let’s say we haven’t checked the property for physical data for quite a few years and we haven’t assessed for a garage that was torn down four years ago, but for whatever reason it wasn’t reported by the local municipality so we never checked it out. If we find out that there’s an error of that type there, we can recommend an agreement to adjust and at that point just correct the assessment without having to have the person go in front of the board of revision to get that done.

“The first step is the appraiser contacting the person who has launched an appeal to inquire about the issues and if there is an error we try to work with

the land owner to fix it and we show them what the assessment should be and if they agree and sign off on it then that’s where the process ends. If they can’t come to a meeting of the minds there and our folks don’t see an obvious error that should be corrected then the property owner goes in front of the board of revisions. It’s a somewhat informal process, but they do need to have some substance at that stage— they can’t just say, ‘I think my value’s too high,’ they have to say, ‘I think my value’s too high and here’s why.’ ” When there’s an appeal it’s up to the locally appointed board to make a final decision, but if the property owner or SAMA appraiser don’t agree with the board’s decision, the appeal process can continue at a provincial level, says Blank.

“The appeal final decision is made by the local board of revision,” he said. “That local board of revision has that authority to determine if in fact this person has a case and they agree and suggest the assessment should be changed to a certain amount—whatever the appeal is seeking. For example if they say, ‘we agree this property is in poorer quality than what SAMA has rated it and we think it should be rated as a poor quality,’ they can ask our appraiser to tell them what

When SAMA’s property assessments come out, land owners are able to review them and have a window to decide if they want to appeal them. Every municipality in Saskatchewan has a local board appointed to hear these challenges from land owners.

the assessment would be at that poor quality and once the appraiser indicates that, they can say, ‘that’s what our decision is going to be.’

“That’s not the last step in the process though, if either party comes out of the board of revision and feels that justice wasn’t served they can then appeal to a higher provincial level called the Saskatchewan municipal board. That Saskatchewan municipal

board has oversight across the whole province and these are folks who are appointed by the province to be that second level of appeal.

“It’s still relatively informal—you don’t need lawyers or anything like that—but these guys are that much more well trained in the whole process. They can be that final point of review for any issues of fact and interpretation of those things.”

21043PM1 21043PM2

22

Thursday, April 22, 2021 Virtual meeting time is set for 7:00 p.m. CST. Featuring Battlefords Boys and Girls Club Information on how to join our virtual meeting is available by visiting our website at www.innovationcu.ca.

www.innovationcu.ca

|

1.866.446.7001

Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

Festival Fanfare Continued from Page 10 adjudicator with the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association. He is the tuba and euphonium instructor at Regina’s Conservatory for the Performing Arts, teaches tuba and euphonium at the University of Regina, and is also on faculty at the International Music Camp in North Dakota.

Preece’s career has led

him to performances in the United States, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Japan. Mark is also an active chamber musician as a member of Big Sky Brass, Regina’s professional brass ensemble, and the International Tuba Quartet. He has written arrangements for brass band, orchestral brass, brass chamber ensembles as well as pieces for solo

KANAWEYIMIK CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES INC.

tuba and tuba quartet.

The festival closes with three days of piano sessions, scheduled for the morning, afternoon, and evening of Thursday April 22. Friday, April 23 and Saturday, April 24, sessions are scheduled for the mornings and afternoons.

Piano adjudicator, Janet Tieckur, grew up in rural Saskatchewan culture where landscape has profoundly affected her musical output. After completing music degrees from Prairie

Kanaweyimik is an independent, nonpolitical child welfare agency providing child welfare and family services to four First Nations. Moosomin, Mosquito, Saulteaux & Sweetgrass First Nations contract for services with Kanaweyimik.

The following is a general description of an Addictions Counsellor position.

Salary will be commensurate with experience, training and education. This THERAPIST/COUNSELLOR POSITION is a full-time, permanent position.

Full-Time

Located in Battleford, Saskatchewan, Kanaweyimik is an independent, non-political Child and Family Services agency providing services to ve First Nations communities.

Kanaweyimik is offering a full-time therapist/counsellor position within a unique, exciting and newly established counselling program. We provide a multi-disciplinary, holistic, therapeutic treatment service to individuals and families who have experienced violence and abuse. Our program uses both Western therapeutic and Aboriginal cultural perspectives.

Extensive training and ongoing clinical supervision will be provided.

ADDICTIONS COUNSELLOR Job Description

1.0 General Description • The Addictions Counsellor is responsible for providing confidential QUALIFICATIONS • A Masters degree in a related services, eld or a Registered Psychologist counselling education, workshops, and support to individuals in Saskatchewan and families suffering • Experience providing individual, group and familyfrom therapy addictions to alcohol and/or drugs of the • Knowledgeable and sensitive to Aboriginal issues with an member communities. understanding of the dynamics of intergenerational abuse • Computer skills • The Counsellor will be responsible for assessing the treatment needs of • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills • A clearindividuals, couples, and families suffering from addictions. criminal and child abuse records check • A valid driver’s licence • In partnership with the clients, the Counsellor will develop both short An immediate or negotiable start date with very competitive salary and benefts. and long term treatment goals for their clients.

Due to the focus of the position being to provide services to • Nations Theindividuals Counsellor will monitor First in an agency operated by member Firstthe client’s treatment goals on a regular Nations, preference will be given to those applicants for this basis and modify them in accordance with their clinical needs. position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

• forward The detailed Counsellor develop and operate therapeutic groups that Please resumés by emailwill to: tony@tonymartens.ca or by mail to: 9621 - 161A Street, Surrey, B.C. V4N 2E8. Please address the treatment needs of their clients. address to the attention of Tony Martens, M.Sc., BSW, RCC, RSW. • The Counsellor will31, 2014 develop and present addictions information Deadline for accepting applications is March at 5pm local time. sessions and workshops for member communities.

Contact person: Tony Martens 604-583-6612. Only successful • ThewhoCounsellor will develop candidates make the short list will be contacted. and present information sessions and Recruitment process to continue until a successful workshops on addictions to the staff, foster parents, Board of Directors, candidate is selected. and volunteers of the Agency.

• The Counsellor will utilize the Agency website to develop and circulate, on a quarterly basis, to the member communities, an educational newsletter addressing addictions issues and impacts to children and families.

2.0 Qualifications

The qualifications of the Addictions Counsellor shall be determined in the absolute discretion of the Board of Directors depending upon the needs of Kanaweyimik Child & Family Services at the time. The following attributes are assets: • A University Degree from a School of Social Work or equivalent work experience and training in a related area with relevant courses or workshops in addictions program.

• Minimum of five years experience in human services with a focus in addictions services.

• Extensive working experience with First Nations people, with an understanding of the particular issues encountered by First Nations people.

• Extensive working experience and a clear understanding of the dynamics of First Nations family systems; complexity of social problems encountered by First Nations families.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the historical traumas experienced by First Nations history from colonization through to present day.

• Must demonstrate ability to conduct workshops and information sessions for Kanaweyimik employees and the member communities.

• Must provide a clear criminal record check and vulnerable sector check.

• Must provide 3 professional references; and further agree to a global reference check.

• Must have a valid Saskatchewan driver’s licence.

• To be registered and a member in good standing with the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers and Canadian Association of Social Workers or any other applicable professional association.

• Have up-to-date knowledge regarding clinical practice standards, therapeutic practices, and research methodologies.

• To carry personal liability and malpractice insurance offered through the Canadian Association of Social Workers or any other applicable professional association.

• Must maintain a positive, healthy lifestyle as this person is to provide a positive role model for the member communities.

Application deadline is April 30, 2021 at 5:00pm. Start date to be determined. Please forward resumes by fax, email or mail to: (306) 4452533, marleneb@kanaweyimik.com. Only successful applicants will be contacted for scheduled interviews. Recruitment process to continue until a successful candidate is selected.

Kanaweyimik Child & Family Services, Inc. P.O. Box 1270 Battleford, Saskatchewan S0M 0E0 Attention: Marlene Bugler

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Bible College (Three Hills, Alta.) and the Royal Conservatory of Music, she has had her compositions performed at many concerts, new music festivals and on CBC radio. Her pedagogical compositions are now listed on many different syllabi across the country.

Passionate about sharing music with those in her community and beyond, Tieckur is a member of the Alliance for Canadian

New Music Projects, the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association (currently serving as president of the Swift Current branch). She is in

demand as a piano teacher, adjudicator, and clinician.

Congratulations to Aiden Lake from Radisson, the cover image winner for 2021.

“I don’t try to write songs that will further my career. I write about things that I care about. I don’t have a career as much as I’m having an adventure with a guitar. I never liked the business way of doing it. You have to follow some sort of instinct.” ‑ Jerry Jeff Walker (1942 – 2020), best known for having written the 1968 song Mr. Bojangles

Maidstone Drop In Centre News

By Dorothy Schwartz Correspondent

The executive of the Drop In Centre in Maidstone met at the centre on Thursday, March 25 at 2 p.m. We observed the required distances and wore masks. Denise Newton conducted the meeting with Noel Coulthard taking the minutes.

Memberships are due in March and will remain at $20 for the year.

Minutes from the SSAI telephone conference were presented. Regardless of COVID they have been representing all seniors to

D

rop in Centre

the government.

Dorothy Schwartz will take the memorial plaque to Lloydminster to have the names of deceased members who passed in 2020 and 2021 put on. They are Vergil (Bud) Scott who was missed in 2018, in 2020 Ray Valliere, Marie Valliere, Albert Hardy, Jean Stewart, in 2021 Helen Ross, Levina Scott and

Ann Lundquist.

When chances of frost have passed, Dorothy will purchase flowers for the three big planters in front of the centre. Georgina will assist with planting and look after the flowerbeds and water as she did last year.

The centre has been where a lot of local people have received their COVID shots.

The next regular and annual meeting will be notified by phone.

Communities in Bloom put some garden decoration in the planters at the post office. It looked nice.

Kanaweyimik is an independent, nonpolitical child welfare agency providing child welfare and family services to four First Nations. Moosomin, Mosquito, KANAWEYIMIK Saulteaux & Sweetgrass First Nations CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES INC. contract for services with Kanaweyimik.

Located in Battleford, Saskatchewan, Kanaweyimik is an The following general description of a Family Service Worker (Social independent, non-political is Childaand Family Services agency providing services to ve First Nations communities.

Worker) position.

Salary will be commensurate with experience, training THERAPIST/COUNSELLOR and education.Full-Time This is aPOSITION full-time, permanent position.

FAMILY SERVICE WORKER (SOCIAL WORKER)

Kanaweyimik is offering a full-time therapist/counsellor position within a unique, exciting and newly established counselling program. We provide a multi-disciplinary, holistic, therapeutic treatment service to individuals and families who have experienced violence and abuse. Our program uses both Western therapeutic and Aboriginal cultural perspectives.

Extensive training and ongoing clinical supervision will be provided.

1 FULL-TIME, PERMANENT POSITION • The Family Service Worker is directly responsible to the Supervisor and/ QUALIFICATIONS • A Masters degree in a related Director; eld or a Registered Psychologist or Executive in Saskatchewan • Manage a caseload in therapy the area of child welfare and family support • Experience providing individual, group and family • Knowledgeable and sensitive to Aboriginal issues with an services; understanding of the dynamics of intergenerational abuse • Computer skills • Intake services; • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills • A• clear criminal and child records check Services toabuse children-in-care; • A valid driver’s licence Community An• immediate or negotiable development; start date with very competitive salary and benefts.

• Services to families in need of support to prevent children coming-intoDue to the focus of the position being to provide services to care; First Nations individuals in an agency operated by member First Nations, preference will be given to those applicants for this • Maintain computerized data, case recordings, individual and family position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

Pleasefiles, etc; forward detailed resumés by email to: tony@tonymartens.ca or by mail to: 9621 - 161A Street, Surrey, B.C. V4N 2E8. Please • Coordinate case planning sessions and monitor case plans to ensure M.Sc., BSW, RCC, RSW. address to the attention of Tony Martens, families receiving services; Deadline for acceptingare applications is March 31, 2014 at 5pm local time.

• Child abuse investigations; Contact person: Tony Martens 604-583-6612. Only successful • Willwho comply the of the Kanaweyimik Personnel Manual candidates make the with short list will provisions be contacted.

Recruitment process to continue until a successful as isitselected. exists from time to time. candidate

QUALIFICATIONS • Must have a University Degree from a recognized School of Social Work; • Must have at least 5 years experience and proven ability to work in the counselling and social services area with families and children; • Must demonstrate knowledge of The Child & Family Services Act; • Must have work experience assessing families and children; • Must have work experience counselling families and children; • Must demonstrate a clear understanding and knowledge of native family systems; • Must demonstrate knowledge in the area of family violence dynamics; • Must demonstrate knowledge of the effects of separation as it relates to placement of children; • Knowledge of the Cree language is an asset; • Computer skills are a position requirement; • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills are required; • A clear criminal records check and vulnerable sectors check MUST BE PRESENTED AT INTERVIEW; • Must have a valid Saskatchewan drivers licence.

Application deadline is April 30, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Start date to be determined. Please forward resumes by fax, email or mail to: (306) 4452533, marleneb@kanaweyimik.com. Only successful applicants will be contacted for scheduled interviews. Recruitment process to continue until a successful candidate is selected.

Kanaweyimik Child & Family Services, Inc. P.O. Box 1270 Battleford, Saskatchewan S0M 0E0 Attention: Marlene Bugler

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 15

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Watch for major pothole in Lakeview area

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

Spring has sprung and as usual leaves some messes behind. The biggest one is damage to the streets, as much repair work is needed to get them into good shape for summer traffic. If you drive into the Lakeview area watch out for a fair-sized hole in the road, again one of spring’s surprises. March came in like a lamb and went out like a lion. We made out fine here, but some places in Alberta and Saskatchewan had snow storms and squalls. Even in April there have been times of much wind, but otherwise it has been good.

A traffic accident in

M

eota News

downtown Meota on Good Friday did considerable damage to both vehicles. A truck hit the driver’s door of a van at a controlled intersection. We were held up there waiting for the ambulance and other vehicles that follow an accident to arrive.

The outdoor rink in Meota was used by many over the winter. They were happy to have access to a new fire pit acquired by Brandon St. Amant. One could bring “wood and

wieners” and enjoy a snack during their break from skating. The wonderful ice was maintained by Derek Welford. The cone liner for the fire pit was donated

by Cockburn Construction and much appreciated.

How these great-grandchildren grow. Now I have one in Saskatoon university who has just been accepted into law school and is so excited about it, while another great-grandson is in Denmark, working in Copenhagen. He is staying with friends until his working visa gets figured out.

A new mobile home has been moved into the northwest end of town, so our population just keeps growing. I don’t think right now that there are any

homes on the market in Meota but there are empty lots for sale.

It is nice to see they are carrying some fresh produce in our local store where it is so handy to shop.

There are several old overgrown trees being taken down in various parts of the village, so the blocks, once split, will be ready for barbecuing in the outdoor pits next summer.

Some folks got back into their card playing routine last week, with bridge at the Pioneer Hall in the city and canasta here in the Do Drop In. It’s a good feeling that life may be getting back to almost normal with the first COVID shots being received by most se-

niors. Folks are still being careful about masks and sanitizing,.

Meota ADRA will be sponsoring summer swimming lessons again this year, taking place at the Meota Regional Park.

There will be three sessions for various levels ‑ July 5 to 11, Aug. 9 to 15 and a third session that is still to be announced. For more information contact Emily at 306-551-5323 or visit the Meota ADRA Facebook page.

Greg Lambert, from Fort McMurray, Alta. spent a week with his father Al at their new home in Lakeview, last week. He encountered a snow storm on his way home Saturday, slowing traffic to 80 km/h.

for an hour or more, making the trip even longer.

There seems to have been a rash of house fires lately, and I have just learned that the one that burned west of Hamlin was the original home built

by Bill Arsenault, where he and Yvonne raised their family, some years ago. He built a second one later on.

Two pictures of this fire, on Facebook, were outstanding, and showed the river in the background.

There was lots of action around over the Easter weekend, with people coming in and opening their cabins for the summer. Many had family gatherings, too, so we can only hope all goes well for everyone.

For more local news see www.newsoptimist.ca/news/news-local

Farmers making preparations for seeding

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Love those breezy, crisp spring mornings, as farmers are engaged in the work of getting the seeding equipment in tiptop shape.

Farmers with small, eager children who want to hang out at or near the shops, are

reminded to be aware of their presence. If one has hired hands, also tell them

to be aware of our precious wee ones. Accidents occur in the blink of an eye.

Deepest sympathy to a former Mayfair resident who located to North Battleford 25 years ago. Brenda Gaywoski’s youngest son, 39, passed away suddenly in his Mervin home. Her other son, Derrick from

Alberta, who was home to visit on Easter weekend, found Darren in his home.

With restrictions on travel, the family had not been together for about a year.

Many families are slowly achieving their longawaited goal of reuniting, but now the nasty virus has ramped up again. It

might take another year for things to normalize. Patience and more patience are required.

I travelled home a couple of weeks ago, so the grass will need raking, fertilizing and watering. The dry, hot desert is nice in winter, but the prairie landscape is breathtaking no

matter what season. If only the coldest season wouldn’t be so bone chilling, the pristine white snow with hoar frost on tree branches is the ultimate scene when taking photos.

Get outside and enjoy this season’s activities of golfing, fishing, hiking and gardening.

Facebook Contest Bulk Fuel Delivery Driver Hancock Petroleum (HPI) is a supplier of bulk fuels, lubricants, methanol and chemicals delivering to farm, commercial and oilfield locations. Our fleet consists of state of the art units capable of handling any size of order from 300 gallons to complete Super B loads.

Our staff is an integral part of our company, all of who are dedicated professionals offering superior service to our many valued customers.

Position Opening HPI currently has an opening for a full time Bulk Fuel Delivery driver based out of the North Battleford Branch location. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe and efficient delivery of fuels to a variety of clients located throughout the North Battleford district and surrounding areas as required.

Job Requirements • Class 3A or 1A with a 3 year clean driving abstract • Two years’ experience handling petroleum products • Able to work in computer and tablet applications • Knowledge of the agricultural industry • Knowledge of oil and gas industry • Work unsupervised in varying conditions • Working knowledge of LSD system • Adhere to all Government legislated regulations • Follow and understand all Company policies and procedures • Participate and acquire all Safety training as outlined in Company Policy • Scheduled work to be attended to and maintained in a “Fit for Duty” state.

The position will base out of North Battleford area report to the North Battleford Site Manager and at times liaison with the Central Dispatch.

Wages will be determined based on qualifications and experience. Only successful candidates will be contacted.

Resumes can be emailed to Brad@hancockpetroleum.ca or dropped off at any of the Hancock Petroleum Petro Pass locations along with copies of current Safety Tickets and a 5 year divers abstract.

For more information please call the North Battleford office at 306 445 3592.

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OBITUARIES Jones, Olive Irene “Bubs” (Nelson) January 5, 1924 – April 10, 2021 North Battleford, Sask.

THE

Mom was born and raised on a farm in the Prongua district, southeast of the hamlet of Gallivan. She was the fifth of nine children. She had fond memories of her upbringing in a small but warm home where all family members shared in the chores, and she had pleasant recollections of her school years and the one room schools she attended. After high school, she moved to Battleford where she embarked on a career in office work during which she met her future husband, Albert Edward (Ted) Jones. Mom and Dad had four children, which is the size of family that Mom knew she wanted from the time she was nine years old. Although her dreams hadn’t considered that all of her children would be boys, she claimed she wouldn’t have wanted it any other way…perhaps she wasn’t aware of all that the Jones boys got up to in their day. She did say there were times when their antics left her with “my heart in my mouth”, but she also had a feeling of pride that “only a mother of four sons can feel”. Mom went back to work part-time in 1965 in Field Title Services and enjoyed her time there, other than the cold office; her aversion to air conditioning resulted in her retirement in 1973. Mom and Dad liked socializing and travelling with family and friends in their younger years. After Dad died in 1997, Mom moved from the family home to an apartment and later to Caleb Village. Her final move was to Harwood Manor where she lived for the last five years and where she appreciated being reunited with longtime friends, Phila and Helen. Mom relished her role as the matriarch of the family. She was always interested in what was happening in the lives of her boys and their families, and she kept us all updated on each other’s news. She had a variety of interests that included reading, crossword puzzles, cross-stitch, knitting, and jotting down her thoughts in the journals she updated daily for most of her life. She knitted mittens for all of the family and also for the local Boys and Girls Club. As her eyesight deteriorated, she switched from library books to reading books on her iPad. The iPad also allowed the family to email her photos regularly which she always looked forward to.

When she could no longer see, her days were largely spent talking on the phone and listening to streaming music on TV. Mom was predeceased by Ted, her parents (Harold and Enid) and all of her siblings. She will be missed by her sons and their families: Daryl and Frances, grandchildren Ash and Erin; Ron and Irina, granddaughters Ariel (Xavier and great-grandson Koa) and Hana; Brian and Sandy, grandchildren Cam, Karen (Scott and great-granddaughter Isabelle) and Michelle (Corey); Doug and Julie, grandchildren Chris and Angela (Phil and greatgrandchildren Logan, Abby and Madeline). A memorial service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the CNIB (https://cnib.donorportal.ca – In Memory of Olive Jones). The family thanks the staff at Harwood Manor for giving such good care to Mom. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306) 445-7570

1

REASON FOR

Norma Amson

Frank Richard Villard

July 7, 1927 - April 2, 2021

Feb. 9, 1932 – April 1, 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Norma Jean Amson of Radisson Saskatchewan on April 2, 2021. Mom was born on the homestead NE,1/2 303-17-2 in Lake Alma on July 7, 1927 to Amanda and Melvin Thue (Ma and Pa).

She was the fifth of 10 children and one of 4 girls.

She was counted on by her mother to help with chores and look after her younger brothers and sisters. These are mom’s own words: as the oldest girl in the family I was taught to accept responsibilities very early in life. I learned to bake big batches of bread when I was 12 years old. I also cared for my brothers and sisters after school-carrying them on my hips, diapering them, and reading stories to them. I worked for my room in board at Frank Bolton’s in Radville and attended Radville High School. At 18, just out of high school there was a shortage of teachers, so in July 1945, I went to normal school in Moose Jaw for 6 weeks and was teaching in September 1945 at little Glenn Curren school 25 miles from home. The next summer after taking 8 more weeks of normal school, I was credited with 2 years of training. I loved teaching and taught in various schools during those 20 years: Glenn Curren, Van Allstine, Lake Alma, Riceton, Grand Coulee, Haultain School in Regina, Middle Valley, Radville and finally Radisson. I came to Radisson in 1956 to teach at the school and it was there in Radisson where I met Jim Amson. We fell in the love and were married on February 20, 1957. Our first son Bradley was born on August 13, 1958 and this was closely followed by our second son, Blake born on July 30, 1960. I taught at the Radisson School for many years and Jim and the boy’s ran a Feedlot and worked on farm land that we purchased over the years. My younger sister Myrtle married Jims brother Jack and we had a very good life and enjoyed all the people in Radisson and the surrounding areas. Mom was known as a fixture in the Radisson community being very active in the annual agricultural fair and always having a garden and flowers in her yard and house. She enjoyed feeding her birds in the wintertime and enjoyed bicycling until the age of 90. She was also a wonderful baker, quilter and crocheter. Mom had great faith in God. Her friends in her faith community were very dear to her and all her life, she was a faithful servant of God. It was her family, friends, community and faith that gave her great comfort and joy in life.

She is predeceased by her husband James (September 15, 1996); her son Blake (May 9, 2015); and eight siblings including sister Myrtle Amson of Radisson on April 4, 2019.

She is survived by her son Bradley (Kathi) and grandchildren - Meghan (Kevin), Caitlin (Derek),Kerry (Andy), Laura (Neil), Haley (Nicholas),Victoria(David) and Leah. She is survived by Donna Neufeldt (Blake) and grandchildren Janelle and James. She had seven great grandchildren Melody, Sophia, Eleanor, Maria, Freyja, Weston and Brooklyn and one more expected. Survived also by sister Donna (Don) Dolgopole. Mom we are going to miss you dearly. It will not be the same without you. Your wisdom, independence, kindness, genuine interest and love in your fellow man is manifested in those you came after you. We take inspiration from your life. The family would like to thank the nurses and physicians that have helped mom these last couple years.

Dr. Lois Stewart, and Dr. Suzanne Harriman most recently. Thanks to special friends Phyllis Blakeny and Susan Penner. Memorial donations to the First Responders in Radisson are graciously accepted. Box 286, Radisson, SK S0K 3L0. An invitation only Funeral took place on Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 2:00 pm. To leave condolences and watch the live stream, please visit Norma’s obituary at www.dalmenyfuneralhome.ca.

Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home 306-254-2022.

It is with sadness the family of Frank Richard Villard announce his passing on Thursday, April 1, 2021 in North Battleford, SK. Frank spent most of his life in North Battleford. He worked for 30 years at the Sask Hospital as a painter. He was also a sign painter. One of his signs is the Cocoa Cola sign on the building on 101st. He painted that sign in 1970 with the help of Wayne Anderson. Some of his others were Hardy Plant Nursery and many others. Frank tried his hands in different things, part owner in trailer sales, partner in a paint store, owning quarter horses & buffalo. When Frank retired him and Adeline spent 17 winters in Yuma, Arizona. There in Yuma for pass time Frank took up wood carving and also carved ostrich eggs. Frank was very sports minded, he loved to hunt, fish and curl. Frank lost his right eye to cancer, so he had to give up hunting because he shot right handed. Frank is survived by his wife Adeline; daughter Linda, Randy, Lindas children; son Brian, Jenn, Emma & Piper; daughter Bobbi & Jacob; daughter Brandi, Darren, Brittany & Tylor; son Bret; son Terry, Brenda, Danielle her children sons Maclarn, Locken, Hazal & Lennie; Adeline children daughter Sandy Semeniuk her sons Dylan, Jason, Shrona, Troy, Erek & Ried; son Kirby & Sandra Goldsmith; son Jordan, Afton, Payton & Taylor; daughter Lacey, Matt, Kobie & Justyce; also Randys children Connor, Colleen, Kodie, Crystal, Ryan, Darrin, Rebecca, Jazmine & Randy Lynn. Frank was predeceased by his parents his father Francis his mother Sophie; his brother Roy and stepson Perry Goldsmith. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Battlefords Humane Society, PO Box 645, North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y7. Condolences can be sent to www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements are entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

IN MEMORIAM

In loving memory of Joram Tyson Gailus.

March 21, 1996.

April 16, 2019.

We miss his laughter and the smile he brought when he came around.

Dearly missed by Garry, Janice and Justine.

NEWS

Source: News Media Canada

Community Safety and Crime Prevention

GET INVOLVED!

Men have a responsibility to stop male violence against women.

A message from the Canada Safety Council

Thank you, Justin Nemeth, for generously allowing us to include in our Book Launch a clip of your Saskatchewan Hospital drone photography.

* Check out SureShot Drone Services on Facebook to see Justin Nemeth's entire presentation of the hospital and surrounding area.

Awesome work! * Check out Book Launch Party on Youtube: Sure as the River Charlotte Sloan

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

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

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IS LOCAL

THANK YOU TO SURE SHOT DRONE SERVICES!

You are getting rave reviews from readers of my new book, SURE AS THE RIVER! Together we are preserving local history!

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NEWS-OPTIMIST Serving the Battlefords since 1908

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APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR SALE

FOR SALE - MISC

HEALTH SERVICES

HIP/KNEE Replacement?

Central: 2Bed/2Bath $315,000 Battleford shop, steel framed, 75’x50’ - fenced 1.4 acres, two 14’ electric drive thru doors, hoist and compressor incl. Offices, two bathrooms, shower. Excellent repair welding and truck shop. Reduced $329,000. 306-446-4462 or 306441-5552

HORSES & TACK Will buy all classes of horses. 306329-4382 or 306-222-5540.

LIVESTOCK Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 yr. old Bulls on moderate growing Ration. Performance Info available. - Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards Valleyhills Angus Glaslyn, SK. Phone: (306)4410946 or (306)342-4407

THURSDAY’S BEST

ONLINE

Unit 415 in the Caleb Village.

Clean and freshly painted, 1,031 square feet condo unit is located on the top floor across from elevator. The two-bedroom unit has an open concept with spacious kitchen, dining, and living area opening onto your own private deck.

The two full bathrooms have one accessible, stand-up shower unit and one tub/shower combination. The unit comes with its own titled parking stall.

Washer, Dryer, Fridge, Stove, Dishwasher, 55" TV, China Cabinet and Corner Fireplace (electric) are all included for only $315,000. Call Nadine at 587-646-6657 or Ron at 780-881-8973 for immediate possession.

An Exceptional Retirement Community in the heart of North Battleford, close to paved walking trails.

Optional meal and housekeeping packages available. Daily activities, 24-hour bistro, games room, on-site hairdressing, community garden, and outdoor courtyard area are just a few of the amenities that make the Caleb your first choice for living.

Nadine: 587-646-6657 Ron: 780-881-8973

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $50,000 Lump sum refund.

Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide!

Providing assistance during Covid.

Expert Help:

1-844-453-5372 FARM SERVICES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

MEETINGS

Now hiring CROP HAIL ADJUSTERS for the 2021 hail season (Jul-Oct).

Competitive salary, expenses & mileage paid, health spending account and pension plan. Continuous training using our industry leading CHAP tablet program. Looking for seasonal summer employment? Retired or semi-retired - this job is for you! Join our team and start your new career.

Email: dtiefenbach@smhi.ca for more details and application form.

306-569-1852 ext 170.

www.newsoptimist.ca

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 17

ANNUAL MEETING TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2021 Due to COVID-19 restrictions our AGM will be held virtually via Zoom.

Registration open May 2 - 14, 2021 For more information about the meeting and to register, please visit: www.discoveryco-op.crs - Board of Directors Report - Election of Directors - Financial Statement - Audit Report - Bylaw Changes

IN MEMORIAM

Ed Hamonic We Miss You Dad - Grandpa Ed

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS FEED & SEED FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc.

Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

Round Bales: 250 gfd. Oats, 300 Wheat straw, 200 Oat straw. All net wrapped. Phone/Text 306291-9395 Langham, SK.

You earned your wings April 12,2020 1 Year has passed and we haven’t said goodbye.

We thought of you with Love today, but that is nothing new.

We thought about you yesterday, and days before that too.

We think of you in silence, We often speak your name.

All we have are precious memories, and your picture in a frame.

We miss your smile, your gentle ways and your silly sense of humor.

Your memory is our keepsake, with which we will forever treasure.

God has you in his keeping, We have you in our hearts.

We Love You To The Moon and Back.

Until we meet again. XO Love: Your 8 Children & Many Grand Children.

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grain.

Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, 1-888-483-8789.

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468

Public Notice of a Subdivision for Intended Discretionary Use & Zoning Bylaw Amendment Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 55 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, that the RM of Meota No. 468 has received an application for a proposed subdivision for a discretionary use. The application includes the creation of 13 parcels for the intended use of single-parcel residential within the SE ¼ Section 13-47-17-W3M near Days Beach, represented by the proposed parcels outline by the bold dashed line on the accompanying plan. The proposed subdivision is located within the A1 – Agricultural Zoning District, how ever due to density requirements the proposed Parcel A requires a Zoning Bylaw amendment to rezone to LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District.

INTENT: The proposed amendment is to accommodate the rezoning of a residential subdivision within the Municipality. The subdivision will bring non-conforming developments into compliance with the Zoning Bylaw.

AFFECTED LAND: The affected lands by this amendment are lands lying within the proposed subdivision shown in the included map that lay within the jurisdiction of the RM of Meota.

REASON: To amend the Zoning Bylaw District Map to accommodate the proposed subdivision. Rezone the proposed subdivision from the A1 – Agricultural District to LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District.

FUNERAL SERVICES

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM Office during regular business hours, excluding statutory holidays. Hard copies will be available to the public at a cost at the RM Office. Digital copies can be obtained by contacting the Municipal Planner (robin@northboundplanning.ca; (306) 873-2200). Email for a digital copy of the bylaw is preferred at this time due to the COVID-19 crisis.

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T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

2691 - 98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, May 5th, 2021, at 1:30 PM in the RM office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendment and subdivision. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, please contact the RM office prior for protocol for in-person representation.

If you wish to comment on this proposal, please do so in writing prior to Monday, May 3, 2021, to Box 80, Meota, SK, S0M IX0 or by email to info468@sasktel.net or robin@northboundplanning.ca. For additional information please contact the Municipal Planning Office at (306) 397-1000 or at robin@northboundplanning.ca.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Looking for a live in caregiver for a senior. Accomadations and food included plus sallary. Must have own Vehicle. Senior lives in Meota. For inquires please call 306-441-1604

HEAVY DUTY MECHANICS & 1A TRUCK DRIVERS REQUIRED: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable.

Clean drivers abstract a must.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL R.M. OF TURTLE RIVER NO. 469

2021 BY-ELECTION RESULTS FOR THE RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF GLENSIDE NO. 377 Tecvalco is Hiring! We are currently recruiting for General Assembly Positions for our new facility in North Battleford SK. Job Summary: To assemble and test material and finished goods in a manufacturing environment.

Work Conditions: · Fast-paced environment · Manual dexterity · Lifting/moving up to 50 lbs Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Pay: $17.50 per hour Qualifications: · High school diploma or equivalent · The ability to speak clear, articulate English is a necessity. · Comfortable working with power tools · QC experience an asset · Mechanically inclined · Safety-conscious attitude Interested individuals should drop off a resume to 100 Canola Ave, Attn Sarah Bublish or email a resume to sbublish@tecvalco.com 866-317-0131 https://www.tecvalco.com/aboutus/

Reeve: Coady Dehr Joanne Fullerton, Returning Officer

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF GLENSIDE NO. 377 PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nomination of candidates for the office of: Councillor for Division 3 will be received by the undersigned on the 12th day of May, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and during regular business hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from April 15th, 2021 to May 11th, 2021 at the municipal office in Biggar, Saskatchewan Dated this 8th day of April, 2021.

Public Notice – Zoning Bylaw Amendment Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 (RM) intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007. A bylaw to amend Bylaw No. 02/2011 known as the Zoning Bylaw (ZB).

INTENT: To add in regulations regarding landscaping not requiring a development permit but shall not interfere with public works or municipal services, not adversely affect neighbouring properties, has not setback requirement but must be within lot boundaries, hazard land requirements, and to address driveways/approaches.

Setbacks for the rear and side yard has been added into the A1 – Agricultural District, 3.1 meters or 10 feet from the property lines.

Council also wants to clarify that Real Property Surveyors Reports (RPSR) are not required for uncovered decks if that is the only new construction applied for in a development permit application.

AFFECTED LAND: All lands within the RM will be affected by the new regulations regarding RPSR not being require for uncovered decks and the landscaping requirements. Lands within the A1- Agricultural District will be affected by the new setback regulations.

REASON: The Zoning Bylaw does not currently and clearly exempt landscaping from requiring a development permit or outline any regulations for landscaping.

Council wants to clarify and update the requirements for RPSR when an uncovered deck is the only construction applied for in a development permit.

Introduce setbacks to the side and rear property lines in the A1- Agricultural District to prevent building on the property line. As the Zoning Bylaw only outlines that buildings must be setback 45 meters from the centre line of the roadway.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM Office during regular business hours, excluding statutory holidays. Hard copies will be available to the public at a cost at the RM Office. Digital copies can be obtained by contacting the Municipal Planner (robin@northboundplanning. ca; (306) 873-2200). Email for a digital copy of the bylaw is preferred at this time due to the COVID-19 crisis.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing at 1:30 PM on May 5th, 2010, to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Due to the evolving COVID-19 crisis, please contact the RM office directly to make suitable arrangements for any direct representation.

Council will also consider written comments received on or before May 3, 2021, by the undersigned at the RM office by hardcopy or email before the hearing. The RM office is located at 300 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0.

The RM Office contact information: (306) 892-2061 or info468@sasktel.net .

Issued by the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 this April 12, 2021.

Robin Bloski, BA (Hons) Development Officer / Municipal Planner RM of Meota No. 468

Monday to Friday, April 16 – June 15, 2021 excluding statutory holidays.

Please call the office at (306)397-2311 or email rm469@sasktel.net to make an appointment.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with the $30.00 fee to: Taylor Baillargeon, Secretary of the Board of Revision for the Rural Municipality of Turtle River No. 469, Box 128 Edam, SK S0M 0V0 by 4:00 p.m. June 15, 2021.

Joanne Fullerton Returning Officer

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Turtle River No. 469 for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor by appointment only, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days:

Dated this 16th day of April, 2021.

Rebecca Carr Assessor PUBLIC NOTICE

Village of Meota Public Notice – Zoning Bylaw Amendments Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Village of Meota intends to adopt a bylaw under the Planning and Development Act, 2007, to amend Bylaw No. 08-2015, known as the Zoning Bylaw (ZB).

INTENT: The proposed amendment to the ZB would rezone a portion of land from the FUD – Future Urban Development District to R1 – Residential Single Dwelling District.

Council also intends to repeal Bylaw 02-2018.

AFFECTED LAND: The affected land is a portion of Parcel A, Plan AE816, and shown within the bold dashed line on the attached plan of proposed subdivision prepared

by Regan Rayner, SLS, of Meridian Surveys Ltd. The land is located at the northwest corner of the Village of Meota.

REASON: The landowner has applied to subdivide the land for to residential lots.

Rezoning to a residential district is required to accommodate the proposal. This subdivision was rezone previously for a different subdivision design in 2018. Council is repealing that Bylaw due to different rezoning requirements due to redesign of subdivision.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Village of Meota office between Thurs. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM excluding noonhour and statutory holidays. Hard copies are available at cost, free digital copies through email by contacting the Village office or Northbound Planning. Digital copies are preferred at this time due to COVID-19 social distancing protocols.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on May 6, 2021 at 7:00 PM at the Village office located at 302 2nd Avenue, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0 to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed ZB amendment.

In light of the COVID-19 crisis, please contact the Village office prior for protocol representation. Council will also consider written or emailed comments received by the undersigned by May 4, 2021. For additional information, please contact (306) 892-2277 or vmeota@sasktel.net, or Northbound Planning at 306-397-1000 or robin@northboundplanning.ca.

Issued at the Village of Meota this April 13, 2021.

Robin Bloski, BA (Hons) Development Officer

Village of Meota

To book Classified Advertising call

306-445-7261

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

LAND FOR SALE

TAX ENFORCEMENT

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Mervin

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Mervin for the year has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Tuesday to Thursday, April 08, 2021 to June 10, 2021 A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with: The Assessor, Village of Mervin, Box 35, Mervin, SK SOM 1Y0 by the 10th day of June, 2021 Dated this 8th day of April, 2021

FORM C [Section 2.3]

NOTICE

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

The Municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the Tax Lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 178369060 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the Municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above. Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.

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

Dated this 10 day of September, 2020.

Land for Sale by Tender R.M. of Meota No. 468 The following 7 quarters (1,120 acres) located near the Robin Hood grid road north east of Cochin, Saskatchewan is offered for sale by tender subject to the restrictions on the existing Certificate of Title, but free and clear of encumbrances: Legal land description and 2018 assessment NE 26-48-16-W3 SE 26-48-16-W3 NW 25-48-16-W3 SW 25-48-16-W3 NE 25-48-16-W3 SE 25-48-16-W3 SE 36-48-16-W3 Total assessment

$200,000.00 $183,200.00 $179,500.00 $204,300.00 $156,100.00 $192,600.00 $195,400.00 $1,311,100.00

THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD Per:

Steven Brown, Administrator

Lora Hundt Assessor

CHRISTY EATON Name of Assessed Owner

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society Hi everyone, I’m Miss Kitty!

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 19

Hi I’m Penny!

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS: Lot 16 BlklPar 160 Plan No. 59B00781 Extension 0 Title Number: 149275637

FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE (The Tax Enforcement Act)

Fresh off of mom duty and ready to become the one I’m a bit older than the other cats here at 10 being spoiled and cared for! My little brats, sorry, years old, but with age comes a certain wisdom uh, angels are ready to spread their little wings and and dignity the youngins’ can’t compete with. I find families of their own, but so am I. I did a pretty am patient, a pro at entertaining myself, but I good job raising them. love people too!

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

battlefordshumanesociety.com BUSINESS SERVICES

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

The Municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the Tax Lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 184003893 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the Municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.

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

Dated this 10th day of September, 2020.

New

Thrift Shop Opening Soon

THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD Per: Steven Brown, Administrator

Now accepting donations Will pick up 306-481-4116 306-441-2271

BURNIA COLWELL- WESTMAN Name of Assessed Owner LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS: Lot 8 Blk/Par 29 Plan No. B2991 Extension 0 Title Number: 130486204

FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE (The Tax Enforcement Act)

AUCTIONS 21043CB1

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

The Municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the Tax Lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 170908342 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the Municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.

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

Dated this 10th day of September, 2020.

THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD Per: Steven Brown, Administrator

BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

CALL 306-445-7261

MICHAEL CHRISTOPHER BERGSTEINSSON Name of Assessed Owner LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS: Lot 18 Blk/Par 85 Plan No. C4240 Extension 0 Title Number: 131140774

• Nice yard site located on NE 25-48-16-W3 • Approximately 1,100 sq ft house that has been vacant for several years and needs repair. Existing well and power to site.

• Wood framed shop approximately 32 x 28 with asphalt shingles and cement floor • 2 x 5000 bushel steel bins on cement floor • 1 x 4000 bushel steel bin on cement floor • Approx. 875 arable acres with 255 acres currently farmed and the rest is seeded to tame grass • Land is all fenced consisting of 6 miles of 4 wire fence and 4 miles of 3 wire fence For more information contact; Dallas Campbell (306) 441-9217 Terms and Conditions of the Tender are as follows: 1. Tenders to be in a sealed envelope marked “Campbell – Tender” and must include full name, return address, phone number and email (if applicable) of the bidder.

2. The highest or any offer will not necessarily be accepted. Bidder may tender on any or all of the above described land.

3. Buyer must provide a certified cheque or bank draft for 5.0 % of the tendered amount payable to Migneault Law Office Trust.

Successful bidder(s) will be notified within 48 hours of tenders closing and unsuccessful bidders will have their deposit returned.

4. Seller will be responsible for taxes to December 31, 2020 and any purchaser for the taxes thereafter.

5. Offers must be received in our office by the tender deadline 12:00 Noon, May 3, 2021.

6. Balance of purchase price and applicable GST to be paid within 30 days of acceptance of tender or deposit will be forfeited. GST registrants may file purchaser’s undertaking.

7. Land sold as is without conditions or warranties.

Migneault Law Office Box 520, 1391-101st Street North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Y8 (306) 445-4436

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Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

FARMS FOR SALE

FOR SALE BY TENDER The Town of Cut Knife offers for sale by tender the following tax title property: Legal Address: Lot 3, Block/Parcel D, Plan BP2660 Civic Address: 105 – Orton Street Zoned: Residential Tax Recovery: $15,653.36 LAND AND IMPROVEMENTS Tender must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Property Tender” addressed to Town of Cut Knife, Box 130, Cut Knife, SK S0M 0N0.

Tenders must be received at the Town Office by 4:00 p.m. on May 31st, 2021. Tenders must include intended use of property. Payment in full will be required within 5 days of the tender being awarded. All reasonable tenders will be considered. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

For further information regarding this property, you may call Preston at the Town Office at 3982363, Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Dated this 13th day of April, 2021.

Preston Olson, Administrator CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Supporting the success of our young generations.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Accounts Receivable & Inventory Management Clerk Full time contract position for maternity leave (Monday to Friday 8am-5pm).

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Resort Village of Aquadeo is currently seeking a motivated individual for the position of:

PERMANENT/PART TIME URBAN MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATOR: This position is a permanent position starting immediately. Applicants for this position should have their Standard Urban Certificate in Local Government Administration or have accounting & administrative skills learned from previous work experience and are willing to take the Local Government Administration course (can be taken by correspondence)

If you are interested in a rewarding/challenging career with group insurance and pension plan benefits, please submit a detailed resumé with references and salary expectations in confidence to the Resort Village of Aquadeo.

Application deadline April 30, 2021.

Resort Village of Aquadeo Box 501 Cochin, SK S0M 0L0 Email to: dbwpl@outlook.com Fax to: 1-306-386-2544

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF ROUND HILL NO. 467

Immediate Opening WANTED

The successful applicant will have: • Bookkeeping certificate/diploma or higher and relevant work experience • Great attention to detail • Be able to work as a team among our 3 retail locations • Duties will include but not limited to: grain and chemical inventory management, ticket entry/ invoice generating and monthly customer statements.

Position located in Cut Knife, SK at an agricultural retail location.

Training would begin as soon as possible Please email resumes to: allissa.jamieson@veikleagro.com

Personal Asset Skills: • Ability to work independently and manage time • Be detail oriented • Have exceptional leadership qualities, superior communication, planning and accounting skills • Experience in Word/Excel, accounting packages; Munisoft are all definite assets

Learn more. uregina.ca/cce

SALES CONSULTANT

We thank all those that apply but only those applicants selected for an interview will be notified.

• Motivated • Self Driven • Customer Orientated • Social Media Skills and • Computer Proficient

OFFERING • Competitive Compensation Plan • Employee Benefit Plan • Retirement Plan If this sounds like a career you would be interested in, please submit your resumé to blaine@scottcampbelldodge.com

“Where Friends Send Their Friends" HWY 4, NORTH BATTLEFORD 306-445-6640 SCOTTCAMPBELLDODGE.COM

Scott Campbell Dodge is a well-established organization in the community offering excellent employment opportunities, competitive wages, and a valuable health benefits package.

We are currently hiring a

Full Time Parts Advisor

**Any experience in the automotive/equipment industry is an asset** If you would like to be part of the SCD Team, please submit your resume.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

• must be competent with computers • must be self driven with strong work ethic • must be a team player • must perform to the highest level of customer service • must be enthusiastic to learn and expand skill set • sales experience is an asset Application deadline: 2021-05-10 Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Please submit your resumé to: parts@scottcampbelldodge.com Benefits: • Dental care • Disability insurance • Extended health care • Life insurance • RRSP match

Village and RM General Maintenance

The Rural Municipality of Round Hill No. 467 invites applications for the Position of Village and RM General Maintenance Duties will include: • General Maintenance duties • Operate Municipal equipment, grader, tractor, mower etc.

• Maintain culverts • Replace and repair signs as required • Mow grass, remove snow • Variable hours • Job Description not limited to above The preferred candidate should possess the following qualifications: • Valid Class 5 Drivers License • Work independently • Reliable • Self-Motivated • Safety orientated • Good Physical condition • Team Player Submit written resume by 4:00pm on April 30th, 2021 stating experience and references to: RM of Round Hill No. 467 • Box 9 Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0 Fax: (306) 824-2150 rm467@sasktel.net Council thanks all applications for their interest, However, only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Classified advertising 306-445-7261

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306-445-6640

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COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

READERS

NOTICE

THE AUTOMOTIVE ADS

IN THEIR PRINTED NEWSPAPER

Source: News Media Canada

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 21

Don’t squander your money, time or opportunities Squandering money tends to get people’s attention, especially if government funds have been misspent.

When time, talents and opportunities are wasted, it’s accepted as a common occurrence. among us. We may see others as guilty, but not ourselves when it comes to wasting time, money or opportunities.

Ed, my old neighbour in Saskatchewan, gets distressed about how technology consumes his children and grandchildren’s time. Ed agrees a cellphone can be a helpful device, but phones, tablets, computers and video games consume everyone’s time in his family. Their use of

N

eighbourly Advice

According to Ed

By Raymond Maher

www.accordingtoed.com

raymaher085@gmail.com technology is an integral part of their relationships, security and identity.

Members of his family are lost without their devices.

I tell Ed we all struggle to manage our time wisely. For many people, jobs eat up to 40 or more hours in a week. That leaves about 128 hours for family, leisure, eating,

sleeping and travel. For some, one hour or slightly more is God’s time at a church service in a week.

Many may feel time is theirs to spend as they see fit. People do think in terms of time well spent and time wasted. How much of our time do we fritter away or waste?

Easter reminds us that

time belongs to God and that we are not totally in control of how we spend our time. In the resurrection of Jesus, His life was restored, and God was victorious over death. God broke the power of death to hold the dead. Death is a destroyer of life, but it is not permanent.

Jesus was dead in his tomb, but on the third day, He arose from the dead.

At God’s appointed time, He gives life over death.

Most recognize it is wise to number our days as death can tap us on the shoulder at any time because of the pandemic.

Death plays tag with us always, but in war and pandemic times, many

more folks get caught.

The resurrection of Jesus helps us focus on the truth that time is always leading to something more. It wasn’t just that Jesus was alive from the dead, but he arose bodily from Earth into heaven in a short amount of days.

(Acts 1:7-11) Christ’s ascension from Earth was with the promise that Christ will come back the same way he left Earth. Like the apostles, believers in Jesus are to be His witnesses until he returns. We know Jesus will return but not when. (Matthew 24:36) states, “But of that day and hour, no one knows, neither the angels of heaven nor the Son, but

the Father alone.”

Since Christ is coming to Earth to gather those that love him to Himself, it is our opportunity to see all of our time as God’s time. Everything is God’s time, our work time, family time, leisure time, etc. How easily we ignore God or limit Him to church time. Our relationship, security, and identity may not be with God but with our time devoted to other things. If we ask God, the Holy Spirit will help us witness of Jesus by living an integral part of our time in forgiveness, love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness and selfcontrol. These embody Christ.

Worship Together Spend some quality family time together.

Worship at the church of your choice.

Our community has a number of churches and a variety of denominations for you & your family.

(RC) St. Joseph Calasanctius Parish 1942 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 0N4

TerriTorial Drive alliance church 306-445-5158 www.tdac.ca

306-446-1695

PASTOR: Rev. Phinh Do

DAILY: Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. - 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted

Corner of Scott & Territorial Dirve Sun. 9:15 am & 11:00 am Ministries for the whole family

WEEKEND MASS TIMES: Saturdays - 7:30 p.m. Sundays - 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

ANGLICAN PARISH

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

Rev. Trevor Malyon

1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK

St. Georges Anglican Church Battleford Sunday @ 5:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church North Battleford Sunday @ 11:00 a.m.

Battle River Parish YouTube channel CJNB Radio 1050 a.m. Sunday mornings 7:45-8:30 a.m.

Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

306-445-5901

Reverend George Yando Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome

PRE-REGISTER

Living Water Ministry

Hope Mennonite Fellowship 1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford

Sr. Pastor Brian Arcand Pastor Anand George Phone: 306-445-3803 Cell: 306-441-9385 Fax: 306-445-4385

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Pastor: Dean Covert

Church Phone 306-445-4181

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

Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 4:00 p.m.

Celebrant: Very Rev. Janko Kolosnjaji 306-664-2301 (Office) 306-244-2604 (Home) To Register Call Jasmina at 306-445-1002

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

306-937-3177 Rev. Gayle Wensley

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

Third Avenue United Church Rev. Dexter van Dyke

Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 am Pre-registration required to register at

306-445-8171

www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net

Everyone Welcome

Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

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

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m.

PASTOR - Rick Martin

LIVING FAITH CHAPEL

1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

Phone 306-937-7340 PASTOR - Fr. Sebastian Kunnath

Maidstone/Paynton United Church of Canada Phone: 306-285-3823 Contact: Don Retzlaff

No Services till further notice

Church & CE Wing: 306-893-2611 For booking the Wing: 306-893-4729

Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church

ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Services 10:30 am

1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Fax: 306-445-8895 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca

Pastor James Kwon

Corner 16th Ave. & 93rd Street, North Battleford

Phone 306-445-9096

Saturday Services Bible Study - 10:00 a.m.

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Page 22 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

WHO DOES IT? Professional Directory

AGRICULTURE PARTS

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Bob Frolek's

AGRA PARTS PLUS WRECKING

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• Older Tractors • Combines • Swathers • Balers & Tillage • Other Ag Related Equipment

FOOD SERVICES

blend

306-445-6769

ALL NATURAL GRANOLA HANDCRAFTED, LOCAL & ALL NATURAL GRANOLA

Open for Dine-In, Logo by Take-Out & Delivery

Robin Petersen

Owner/General Manager

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Derrick Shynkaruk General Contractor

• New Construction • Renovations

Owner

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

www.yanishealthykitchen.com

Find us on Instagram

& Facebook

yanishealthkitchen

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

ROOFING CONTRACTOR New, re-roofing & roof repair

Where we always try to be the lowest price and best value.

- Guaranteed Workmanship -

306.937.0000

Yanitsa Borisova

DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

Patterson roofing

Restaurant & Bar

1602 100th Street North Battleford

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB

Todd Patterson Owner/Operator

See our features online on

3 miles N.W. on Hwy. 16, 2 1/2 miles west on Sunshine Road

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FREE Estimates & Senior Discounts

Phone: 306-445-8439 Cell: 306-441-3690

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Bruce at

306-937-7474 bruce@battlefordfurniture.com

djshynkaruk@gmail.com GENERAL CONTRACTOR

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PRESCRIPTION APPLICATION 45’ BELT CONVEYER Fertilizer I Herbicides I Micro Nutrience I Broadcast Seeding CALL FOR RATES AND BOOKINGS DAVID KONOPLESKI 306-344-7424 • davekono@sasktel.net • Box 139, Meota, SK S0M 1X0

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Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021 - Page 23

WHO DOES IT? w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

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Town hosting bat house workshop April 17

By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

Rising cases, variants of concern – these are reasons to continue diligence and vigilance against this virus. Ultimately, it’s up to all of us to help stop the spread and that includes getting vaccinated when eligible to do so, continuing with prescribed pandemic protocols and doing what we can to keep ourselves, our families and our neighbours safe and healthy.

The bats are still in the news. Some of these little rascals tried to find their way back into the Sheraton (AKA the rink) but that issue has been resolved.

Some of the town staff met Elizabat and Batrick, brought back to town by bat biologist, Melanie Elliott, who works with the Living Sky Wildlife Rescue. The town is holding bat house building sessions, with all pandemic protocols in place, April 17.

Participants must register.

The bats were discovered during rink renovations which are now fully underway.

With a hint of sadness and a lot of interest, folks watched the demolition of the former Field’s location April 2. The property was purchased and a building constructed in 1978 to accommodate the Saan Store. Saan closed in 2004.

Delta Co-op purchased the property in 2005, where they established a

U

nity News

downtown hardware store in the south section of the building. When Fields arrived in Unity, they were established in the larger north section.

The board of Delta Coop deemed demolition a prudent economic move, as the building required extensive repairs.

“Several attempts to remedy the declining condition of the building were made over the past decade and all were unsuccessful and very costly. The decision was made to use the money towards the demolition of the building and focus instead on addressing the parking lot issues at the Unity food store,” the board says in a statement.

“As the building had so much work to be done the board and management team felt this was the most financially responsible decision for the organization and our membership.”

St. Peter’s School staff supported Hometown Designs with their Canadian Mental Health Association fundraiser by purchasing and wearing Cont;nue shirts. Everyone at St. Peter’s was excited to hear of the safe arrival of Mrs. Ackerlund’s baby.

At Unity Public School, staff also supported the fundraiser for the CMHA by purchasing and wearing the Cont;nue shirts. A

reminder that the curb is yellow in front of the school for a reason, so refrain from parking there, as well as too close to the corners as exiting students need to be easily seen when moving in and out before and after school Residents are asked for their support of the upcoming Unity Composite High School grad class bottle drive.

There is a team in every age group for the upcoming ball season, with some age groups having more than one team. The best results from registration were in the entry-level categories of Learn-to-Play 1 and 2.

Unity Minor Soccer is ready to roll, providing the government gives the goahead for outdoor sports.

Registration was held April 14 and organizers wait for the go ahead from the provincial soccer governing body and the Sask. Health Authority.

Unity’s soccer season runs during May and June and includes teams in divisions from U5 up to the U19.

Registrations are available at the schools, town office and online and can be dropped off at the town office any time before April 21.

The local greenhouse is ready for gardeners whether new or veteran.

This business offers multiple products and Tammy and her staff are a source of knowledge on both the products they carry and planting guidance.

Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...

Town staff meet with bat biologist, Melanie Elliott, to learn more about the bats that inhabited the upper parts of Unity’s arena. Photo submitted

A long-standing business building in downtown Unity was razed on April 2.

Formerly a Saan store and then Field’s, the site will now be used to expand parking space at Delta Co-op, owners of this property. Photo by Sherri Solomko

Page 24 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 15, 2021

A labour of love

By Helen Row Toews Cooking for someone is a labour of love. We’ve all heard this phrase, but I hadn’t given it much thought until today when sadly, it flitted across my mind that I should make a yummy apple crumble for Dad’s supper. I love my father with all my heart.

He passed away just two weeks ago and life will never be the same.

Of course, cooking for Dad wasn’t always easy, but it was a privilege to have been in charge of his evening meal for the last seven years. He liked basic food and “nothing spicy.”

This sounds like a reasonable request, made by a person who perhaps doesn’t like jalapenos or hot chili, but in fact Dad was referring to things like parsley, mushrooms and in some cases even creamery fresh butter. He preferred foods to be bland and unadorned. Give the man a hunk of meat and couple

of spuds and he was good to go.

One time, early on in my tenure as his cook, I prepared a humble dinner and set it before him on the table before excusing myself to check on dessert.

When I turned from the oven, he was hunkered furtively over the garbage can, skimming the top layer of his potatoes into the trash. He looked up guiltily.

“Sorry Helen, but I don’t like butter on my

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potatoes.”

What! Who in the world doesn’t like melted butter on mashed potatoes? My dad.

Another time I was doctoring up a hamburger for him. I knew exactly what he liked for condiments – none ‑ but he issued me directives just in case.

“Make sure you don’t put any of that fancy red stuff on it,” he said firmly.

“Would you be referring to ketchup?” I asked dryly.

He was.

But, who in the heck thinks of ketchup as “fancy?” My dad.

Most re‑ cently I pre‑ pared what I thought was a tempting meal: tuna melt. It was plain, simple and fish was al‑ ways a favourite. Win, win, I thought foolishly, as I cut off the crusts, added the fish mixture and then browned a thick layer of cheese on top.

“What do you think,” I asked, hovering anxiously over him to await the verdict.

“It’s not bad,” he said, after chewing thoughtfully for several seconds. Dad was always polite and grateful for all the meals I made him. I knew he was trying not to tell me it was crap.

“You don’t like it do you?” I asked.

“Well,” he said, lifting a second forkful with the air of a man sentenced to life

imprisonment with no chance of parole. “I’ve eaten worse things.”

I laughed. Who else would hate the food they’d been given, yet still be willing to force it down so that I wouldn’t be inconvenienced? My dad.

I took it from him, gave it to the dog, and quickly whipped up a poached egg on toast instead. Then we sat together holding hands and watching TV. My encouragement for you today is to tell those

people around you how much you love them, to spend time with them, or to cook them something special. We never know how long we may have on this good Earth.

Dad was 91 years old, but the pain of losing him is not lessened by that fact.

The finest man I’ll ever know will always be Les Row – my dad.

Contact Helen at myprairiewool.com or Box 55 Marshall, Sask.

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Over 8200 agricultural equipment items online & counting!

Upcoming Unreserved Online-Only Auctions: April 16 – April 27 Langbank, SK – April 16 · Larry & Vivian and Kleven & Judy MacDougall

Coronach, SK – April 21 · Planz Farms Ltd

Humboldt, SK – April 16 · Marvin & Kim Stolz

Clavet, SK – April 22 · Gary & Lori Erixon

Unity, SK – April 17 · Terry Box & Doug Box

Drayton Valley, AB – April 23 · Francine Fairfield

Glaslyn, SK – April 19 · Brelou Farms Ltd.

Davidson, SK – April 23 · Larry Thomas

Lipton, SK – April 19 · Larry & Donna Degelman

Mackay, AB – April 26 · Ross & Charlene Syme

Spiritwood, SK – April 20 · Brian & Kathy Cross

Shellbrook, SK – April 27 · Shellbrook Crushing 1999 Ltd

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