Regional News-Optimist April 22, 2021

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Public health orders extend to May 10

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Advocating for Others

40+ eligible for vaccine

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The province has extended its current public health orders to May 10.

That news came out of the news conference in Regina Tuesday with Premier Scott Moore and Dr. Saqib Shahab, chief medical health officer for Saskatchewan.

In addition to the extension of the current health orders, there were some new changes to eligibility for the provincial vaccine rollout.

Most of the age-based system continues to work well in getting people vaccinated as quickly as possible and in reducing serious outcomes. Moe noted that now that they had made progress with older age groups the province can look at vaccinating other priority groups.

Moe announced that when COVID-19 vaccine eligibility is opened to all residents ages 40 and over, Saskatchewan will prioritize access to the COVID-19 vaccine to remaining prioritized first-responders (currently targeted with mobile vac-

cination units) along with additional front-line workers ages 16+, depending on vaccine product. Those include police officers, firefighters, frontline health workers with direct patient contact, teachers and educational staff working directly with students, correctional staff and border security officers.

They will require proof of employment from their employer prior to attending mass vaccination sites.

Another announcement was that, on the recommendation of Dr. Shahab, they have lowered the age for use of the AstraZeneca vaccine to adults 40 years and older. AstraZeneca will bewww.lskysd.ca integrated into the provincial vaccination rollout.

Moe also noted that expect to lower the provincewide eligibility for vaccines to 44 this Thursday and to 40 and older by the middle of next week.

In his remarks Dr. Shahab reported they have seen “dramatic impacts” from the vaccination in older age groups, with a January Ad rapid decline in COVID-19 hospitalization and death.

Continued on Page 3

Wellbeing

Innovation

Bringing my best The efforts of two students from “What if we could” John Paul II Collegiate in North Battleford to advocate for those with

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special needs have been highlighted by the school. Anicah Poynting and Alex Northcott, seen here www.lskysd.ca with advisor Cst. Laura Cockrum, are two students at JPII who were part of the RCMP Youth Advisory Committee. It was through this committee that they got involved in efforts to bring awareness to those with special needs, with a focus on the Alternate Education Program and Functionally Integrated Program at JPII. According to the school, the two youths made a point of stating the importance of letting students in those programs know that they were a part of the JPII family and have their support. Despite pandemic obstacles, they were able to raise $333.15 for the programs. They planned a Hat Day for April 7 and 8, and also provided an opportunity for staff and students to wear different colours to promote awareness: purple for epilepsy, yellow for all disabilities, and blue for autism. Poynting and Northcott also provided Period 6 classes with materials to create advocacy posters of inclusion and awareness. Photo submitted

Four people arrested in 2020 murder case Four people have been charged with the 2020 murder of Damian Moosomin, 20, of North

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Moosomin’s body was February Ad found in the 1500 block of 105th Street on May

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Page 2 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

11 month investigation

Four people arrested in 2020 murder of Damian Moosomin

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

Four people have been charged with the 2020 murder of Damian Moosomin, 20, of North Battleford.

RCMP Major Crime Unit South charged Tye Partridge, 23, from Moosomin First Nation with firstdegree murder and Jannay Blackbird, 32, from Saulteaux First Nation with seconddegree murder. Stormy Wapass-Semaganis, 23, from Edmonton, and Melissa Semaganis, 41, from Sweetgrass First Nation, were charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

“Investigators worked diligently since

last May; gathering evidence, conducting interviews and continuing to push forward,” said Sgt. Donna Zawislak, RCMP Major Crime/ Historical Case Unit South.

“What began as a missing person investigation has progressed to charges of murder and accessory after the fact.”

Moosomin’s body was found in the 1500 block of 105th Street in North Battleford on May 16, 2020. He was reported missing to police on May 11, 2020.

Partridge, Blackbird, and Semaganis appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 27. Wapass-Semaganis appears in court next on April 28.

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Meota man charged with firstdegree murder released on bail

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A Meota man accused of killing his wife has been released on bail.

Michael MacKay, 38, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of his 38-year-old wife Cindy

MacKay. He had a show cause hearing recently in Battleford Court of Queen’s Bench.

He had an appearance May 16 in North Battleford Provincial Court and he returns to provincial court on May 14 to set a date for a preliminary hearing.

MacKay was arrested in Warman on March 18.

According to police, they launched an investigation after health care professionals raised concerns to RCMP. Cindy MacKay was taken to hospital in medical distress on Feb. 7, 2020. She died on Feb. 12,

2020.

RCMP Major Crime Unit North, RCMP Historical Case Unit North, the Battlefords RCMP, Battlefords RCMP General Investigation Section, and RCMP Forensic Identification worked together on the investigation.

Biggar man allegedly escapes custody, points firearm, uses vehicle as weapon

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A man is facing 19 charges after allegedly getting out of his handcuffs before fleeing from the Biggar RCMP, pointing a firearm at someone, and using a vehicle as a weapon against three other people.

Jordy Leschinski, 20, was arraigned in North Battleford Provincial Court April 20 and the Crown opposed his release.

The Crown is proceeding by indictment rather than summary conviction, which is the more serious offence and means the potential of more jail time if convicted.

The court heard Tuesday that after being arrest21044BS0 21044BS1

ed on April 18, Leschinski allegedly got out of his handcuffs, escaped from the Biggar RCMP and fled.

According to Biggar RCMP, on April 18, 2021, shortly before 6 p.m. Biggar RCMP detachment received a call from a complainant advising that a man had pointed a firearm at another person. The caller advised this occurred in the Biggar area. The caller advised police that the man then left the location with a female youth in his vehicle. All three persons were known to each other.

Biggar RCMP officers responded and located the suspect’s vehicle on Highway 14 shortly after 7 p.m. with the man and youth inside. The man exited the vehicle and became a hazard to motorists travelling on Highway 14. Officers blocked traffic to ensure the safety of the suspect and passing motorists while arresting him. After resisting arrest the suspect was transported to Biggar Hospital for treatment of minor self-inflicted injuries.

Biggar RCMP located a firearm and ammunition in his vehicle.

At 8:30 p.m. on April 18, 2021 the suspect was at the Biggar hospital for treatment when before 9 p.m., he escaped custody and left the hospital.

The RCMP Police Dog Services, additional RCMP officers from the Biggar detachment, Rosetown detachment, Unity detachment, Saskatoon detachment, and Warman detachments were called in to assist in locating the suspect, along with air service support from the City of Saskatoon Police Services.

The investigation revealed that following his escape the suspect allegedly stole a vehicle from a residence in Biggar that was known to him, and travelled out of town. Just after midnight on April 19, 2021, the suspect was located near Landis. He was arrested and taken into police custody without further incident or injury.

Leschinski is charged with escaping from lawful custody, pointing a firearm

at an individual, theft of a Winchester, possession of a Winchester without a license, having a loaded weapon in the back seat of his vehicle, having a weapon dangerous to the public, being in a vehicle knowing there was a firearm, possession of a firearm knowing it was obtained under an offence, possession of a firearm dangerous to the public, handling a firearm in a careless manner, theft of a vehicle, three counts of assault with a weapon (a motor vehicle), driving dangerous to the public, two counts of failing to comply with a no contact order, failing to keep the peace, and failing to comply with an order not to possess firearms and ammunition.

Legal aide lawyer Andrew Lyster consented to remand while he gets further disclosure from the Crown.

A show cause hearing is scheduled for April 22 in North Battleford Provincial Court to determine if Leschinski will be released on bail.

Trial set for man accused of drug trafficking

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

An Alberta man charged with drug trafficking offences by the Battlefords RCMP pleaded not guilty and elected to be tried by provincial court judge.

A one-day trial for Lowen Diehl, 36, is scheduled for July 6

in North Battleford Provincial Court.

Federal Crown Prosecutor Kirsten Janis told the court she intends to call three witnesses. The Crown is proceeding by indictment against Diehl, which may mean a longer prison sentence if convicted.

On April 20, Alberta lawyer Mona Karout appeared in North Battleford

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court by telephone as an agent for the lawyer representing Diehl. She waived Diehl’s attendance and told the court that defence doesn’t plan on calling any witnesses during the trial.

Diehl was arrested during a traffic stop in December 2020 after a citizen called police to report an SUV being driven erratically. The vehicle was stopped west of Battleford on Highway 16.

Police say they seized 17 kg of drugs and a large amount of Canadian currency from Diehl’s vehicle.

They say the methamphetamine could be broken down into about 150,000 individual doses and the cocaine could be broken down to about 1,000 individual doses.

In January, Diehl was released on $10,000 cash bail and a $10,000 surety.

His bail conditions stipulate that he remain at his home in Alberta on 24hour house arrest.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 3

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Teniuk named RCMP Officer in Charge in Battlefords

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Battlefords RCMP detachment is going to be seeing a change at the top.

Staff-Sgt Jason Teniuk is taking over as the new Officer in Charge of Battlefords detachment from Inspector Tom Beck.

Beck will still be in charge at the detachment until the end of the month, Teniuk said in his presentation at Battleford town

council Monday. Teniuk will be acting for him during that period and Beck will be providing a “little bit of guidance” as they move forward.

In terms of human resources at the detachment, Teniuk reported the detachment is in “pretty decent shape.” He noted a lot of detachments were missing almost half their people, but in the Battlefords it was only “one or two.”

More specifically, they

were down one member, with two on light duties, one out sick, and two out on “pat leave.”

“Really, that’s pretty darn good for a detachment this size,” said Teniuk.

Teniuk also reported the detachment is still in the process of getting their First Nations Community Policing Unit up and running. Teniuk said the unit will be dedicated 90 per cent to First Nations, with the other 10 percent of time

responding to major incidents.

One opinion Teniuk did express at the meeting was the amount of time detachment members spend on “non-offence codes,” pointing to a stat that those calls have increased by 518 percent over five years.

That includes such things as breaches of the peace, 911 act, mental health act cases, and other such calls that might deal more with social or addic-

tions issues.

That was a concerning statistic to Teniuk, who believed it meant police members had to be “everything to everybody.” That was a concern to Teniuk given their already-stretched resources at the detachment.

“Someone else has to step up to fill this void here because we can’t continue to do that,” said Teniuk, who suggested there might be other options to address some of these issues. “The

Staff-Sgt Jason Teniuk

days of us being everything to everybody are getting thin.”

Public Bidding by local contractors still a hot health topic at North Battleford City Hall rules

By John Cairns go to May 10 Staff Reporter

Continued from Page 1 Dr. Shahab also spoke on variants of concern. He noted the south, Regina and Saskatoon were seeing the B.1.1.7 variant (the UK variant) which is more transmissible. There had also been a cluster of the B.1.351 which is the South Africa variant, in the north central part of the province, but that was quickly contained through contact tracing and isolation.

Dr. Shahab also noted that in the southwest there was a cluster of five variants of concern of P.1 (Brazil).

This had been reported in other parts of Canada including western Canada but this was the first time it was reported in Saskatchewan.

Dr. Shahab urged people do the right thing, to get tested if they have symptoms after any interprovincial or international travel. He also urged people to continue to follow all public health measures.

“While our vaccination program is picking up we have to do all these other things - abide by public health orders and isolate if you’re positive or in close contact,” he said.

Opening up North Battleford projects to local area contractors is still a hot issue at City Hall, with the issue raised again at a meeting of councillors sitting as the Planning Committee on Monday.

Councillor Thomas “Bill” Ironstand had raised the issue at council the week before expressing concern that local contractors were being shut out of the sanitary sewer trunk main project.

He raised those concerns again at Planning Committee, saying he had received an email from Derek Mahon, former Battleford mayor, whose local group had put in a bid to be the project management team for the trunk main project work.

They had submitted their written application and were the low bid, said Ironstand, but ended up ranked fifth out of six bidders in the evaluation by AECOM and were eliminated from consideration.

Ironstand made the case that Mahon’s company was “quite capable of being project managers.” He also noted no formal interview took place and the decision was made based on the written submission.

“That doesn’t sit well with me,” said Ironstand, who added he has received 30 phone calls or texts from people in favour of his stance in supporting local contractors and suppliers.

But the meeting’s chair, Greg Lightfoot, responded that contract law was quite

clear they could not be preferential towards local companies. That also allows them to bid on jobs outside the community.

Director of Operations Stewart Schafer also responded that in the case of Mahon’s company, “he left a lot of information out that we requested.”

Councillor Kent Lindgren raised another concern — that people were now “lobbying council members in our involvement in selecting companies” based on an open tender process.

Civic centre accessibility examined

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Accessibility at the North Battleford Civic Centre — and indeed, the future for the facility itself — was a prime topic at a meeting of city council’s Planning Committee on Monday.

At the meeting, council heard from Eithan Pillipow of Kindrachuk Agrey Architecture on the accessibility audit conducted on the Civic Centre, renamed recently the Access Communications Centre.

A particular issue at the facility is its age. It is around 60 years old and for that reason alone a number of accessibility deficiencies were identified.

Priorities identified include the need to upgrade the guardrails and handrails at the building; safety

and signage upgrades addressing such items as fire alarms and fire exits; and elevator access to the second floor lounge which currently can only be accessed through the stairs.

The latter item is considered a long-term item and would be a major capital investment. “It would greatly increase the usability of the facility,” said Pillipow.

The audit was done to identify needs and a cost estimate for the items was not provided. City Manager Randy Patrick noted they would come back with pricing on the priority items, and put them into the capital plan over the next number of years.

But a big issue for city officials in the future is how much they are willing to spend on upgrades given the current age of the facility. There has been a

The stairs and the guardrails at Access Communi cations Centre were among the items that came under the microscope in an Accessibility Audit report presented to Planning Committee on Monday.

Photo submitted from the report

comprehensive study done on the building a few years ago, and some investments have been put into the building to help extend its life.

The long-term items in the audit report, such as the elevator, could potentially

be addressed by building a new facility down the road.

But the initial indication from council is they are interested in looking at addressing at least the shortterm safety needs at the Civic Centre until a new building is built.

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Lindgren wanted more information brought back to council on the tendering process, in the hope that those rules could be made more clear.

“Now there’s companies that were now contacting a member of council, that has been brought into an open planning meeting,” Lindgren said. “That has me a little apprehensive about that and what that’s done to the process around tendering, lobbying, which are very explicitly defined by the federal government in terms of funding.”

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Letter

Out of sight, out of mind

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.

Dear Editor Re: SaskPower: How small modular reactors fit in the mix - April 2, 2021 Throughout this 1350-word article, SaskPower’s Darcy Holderness used the terms “small modular reactors” and “SMRs” more than a dozen time, but not once did he combine the terms into “small modular nuclear reactors” ... which is very unfortunate.

This simple omission is common among many proponents of this latest attempt by the nuclear industry to remain relevant and a money-maker, and does nothing to alert people to Premier Moe and the Sask Party’s plans to develop untested small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) for this province.

Small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) are constructed in modules in a factory, hauled to remote settlements, dams or extraction sites under a tarp with a semi, assembled with enough fuel to generate between 50-300 MW of energy for some 20 years and produce radioactive waste which, along with the radioactive equipment, will then probably be abandoned where they sit.

All nuclear reactors - big or small - produce radioactive waste which can harm or kill life forms for hundreds of thousands of years and can never be “disposed of.” Further, there is no known location on this planet where this deadly material may be safely and sustainably stored. It can be buried underground to risk leakage into underground waterways or dumped into an ocean (eg. Fukushima) where it can be ingested by sea life but we can never be “rid of it” ... ever!

How dare we leave such an horrific mess for our grandchildren’s grandchildren.

Elaine Hughes Archerwill

Letter

Refusing vaccine an informed use of ‘freedom’

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

Dear Editor I am writing in response to comments in the April 8 Regional News-Optimist (Have you got your jab yet?

Choice vs. responsibility). The point was given that it is the personal responsibility of everyone to get their jab because it “protects us and it protects others.” Scientists do not yet know whether COVID-19 vaccinations will reduce transmissions or not because this was not tested in the trials. They say it was found that the severity of the symptoms would be reduced if, after getting the vaccine, you acquired COVID-19.

The writer alluded to the fact that the “narratives floating out of the USA” about implanted micro-chips, gene manipulation, etc are nothing more than hearsay.

But a good investigation shows scientists, biologists, pathologists and doctors from many other countries are citing the alarming differences in this new type of vaccine. This is the reason people are using their “freedom” to say “no” and not just because of stubbornness, spite, politics or even a conspiracy theory, as the editorial assumed. It is because many have taken the time to do their own research involving many hours.

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These “freedom” people are not prepared to accept this vaccine because the COVID vaccines are mRNA vaccines and are a completely new type of vaccine. No mRNA vaccine has ever been licensed for human use before. And this one was just “authorized” not “approved” as in normal vaccines, which are tested for two to four years before giving to humans. In essence, we have absolutely no idea what to expect from this vaccine.

We have no idea if it will be effective or safe.

Traditional vaccines simply introduce pieces of a virus to stimulate an immune reaction. The new mRNA vaccine is completely different. It actually injects (transfects) molecules of synthetic genetic material from non-human sources and some human sources into our cells. Once in the cells, the genetic material interacts with our transfer RNA to make a foreign protein that supposedly teaches the body to destroy the virus being coded for. Note that these newly created proteins are not regulated by our own DNA, and are thus completely foreign to our cells. What they are fully capable of doing is unknown.

So, that is the reason many people are using their

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freedom and are not in any way infringing on others who do decide to get vaccinated.

Margaret Wasmuth Battleford Editor’s note: Pfizer and Moderna are mRNA vaccines.

Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca are vector vaccines, the traditional kind made from a modified version of a live virus.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, mRNA vaccines do not affect or interact with DNA in any way because mRNA never enters the nucleus of the cell, which is where DNA (genetic material) is kept. The cell breaks down and gets rid of the mRNA soon after it is finished using the instructions.

The office of the Surgeon General of the United States website states, “A growing body of evidence suggests that fully vaccinated people are less likely to be infected without showing symptoms (called an asymptomatic infection) and potentially less likely to spread the virus that causes COVID-19 to others. However, further investigation is ongoing.”

Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 5

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Opinion

Engineering Saskatchewan’s future

Government must support the domestic space supply chain in order to help engineer Saskatchewan’s social, cultural and economic fabric

By Patrick Thera The Avro Arrow was one of the most innovative aircraft of its time, establishing Canada as a global leader in aerospace research and development.

In what has been deemed the closest thing Canadian industry has to both a love story and a murder mystery, the program Patrick Thera was cancelled by the Photo www.calian.com Diefenbaker government in 1959. The shuttering of the Arrow program resulted in the loss of at least 25,000 jobs.

It was the ultimate brain drain. More than 33 senior Canadian engineers left for NASA and made an indelible mark on the manned space program and lunar landing 10 years later. Among them was Canada’s Owen Maynard, who oversaw NASA’s Lunar Module Program and played a key role in the design of the module.

The first successful moon landing was nothing short of momentous. Roughly 650 million viewers watched those first few steps on their television screens, cementing the United States as the winner of the global space race. However, underpinning the moon landing is a lesser-known Canadian contribution.

The move south by Maynard and others, while an immense gesture to Canadian ingenuity, was a significant exodus of Canada’s brightest minds.

This has since become an unfavorable trend, not just for the aerospace industry, but from our country’s science and engineering ranks more broadly. A recent study found that one-in-four STEM graduates from three leading Canadian universities opted to work outside Canada. Eight-in-10 chose the United States.

Meanwhile, technology for space exploration has gained momentum and public attention in recent years, providing Canadian companies with the opportunity to re-assert themselves as global leaders. As NASA signals its intention to return to the moon and sends new vehicles to Mars, companies on our home soil are thriving, innovating and delivering key technologies for space exploration, sensing and communication.

Turning to Saskatchewan, Calian Advanced Technologies (previously SED Systems) has been delivering world-class solutions for defence, deep space exploration, satellite operations and telecommunications for more than 50 years.

There is great potential to make Saskatchewan the Canadian destination for STEM talent.

Our goal is to create and maintain highly skilled jobs in the province and across the country, especially in the area of science, technology and engineering.

Yet sustaining local and national competitiveness relies on innovation and bringing the right solutions to market. Government support can help accelerate innovation and commercialization of space and satellite communications, bolstering Saskatchewan’s position domestically and abroad. Canada’s space companies, including Calian, are already providing solutions here on Canadian soil and are generating export sales from foreign clients.

In Saskatchewan, there are opportunities to invest in a future where talent thrives over the long-term, enticing highly-trained professionals and thus enhancing the long-term sustainability and diversity of the economy.

Telesat LightSpeed is developing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that will provide high-speed broadband internet to many remote, rural and First Nations communities.

These satellites will improve internet connectivity speeds, giving Saskatchewanians greater prospects of job advancement and better access to healthcare and education.

The barriers to good

rural connectivity were recently identified by The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS). Its Task Force report offered a series of recommendations to remove the barriers. These include ensuring government funding to regain Canadian excellence, taking a leadership role to build long-term sustainability, and achieving universal connectivity to realize the societal and economic benefits.

Saskatchewan has a chance to secure its future as a leader in a highly competitive global market. The province can deliver an all-Canadian solution for the Telesat LEO program, increasing accessibility for these underserved communities all while creating and sustaining local jobs.

Government must support the domestic space supply chain and help engineer Saskatchewan’s social, cultural and economic fabric.

Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Patrick Thera is President of Calian, Advanced Technologies, formerly known as SED. Based in Saskatoon, Advanced Technologies provides infrastructure for satellite ground systems across the aerospace and defence, satellite and nuclear industries.

Randy Weekes

MLA Biggar-Sask Valley Constituency randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca Toll free number 1-877-948-4880

Commentary

Canadians facing rising food security challenges

As a result of macroeconomic shifts in recent years, Canada is on the list of countries facing challenges trying to ensure food security for many citizens

By Sylvain Charlebois

Professor, Dalhousie University

The two necessities in life are food and shelter. It looks like both are getting much more expensive.

For a few years, the cost of food has been the most important food affordability barrier. Not anymore. The cost of housing is now seen by Canadians as the most significant barrier.

A recent poll conducted by Grassroots Public Affairs, in partnership with Food Banks Canada, shows how things have changed in just 12 months.

A total of 46 per cent of Canadians surveyed consider the cost of housing to be the largest obstacle to food affordability. Only 12 months ago, it was 21 per cent. Twenty-nine per cent of Canadians see the cost of housing as a larger obstacle now compared to 12 months ago.

Rising unemployment was the largest obstacle for 71 per cent of those polled last year, for obvious reasons. That percentage dropped to 42 per cent this year, the same as the cost of food. Indeed, the cost of food is still seen as an important barrier but concerns related to food prices have now been surpassed by lodging costs.

Seeing house prices go up isn’t necessarily undesirable. After all, most Canadians rely on the value of their

property to increase their wealth and support their retirement. Taxing capital gains on primary residences would aim at the wrong problem and make many Canadians poorer.

But the pace at which housing prices are going up is alarming. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently reported that over the last 20 years, Canadian house prices on average have risen by more than 1,680 per cent, the highest rate amongst all OECD countries. The second highest, the United Kingdom, is not even close, at 96 per cent. So this is a real issue in Canada.

Canadians are facing a perfect storm when looking at food affordability. The cost to put a roof over one’s head is going up while food prices are expected to rise by as much as five per cent this year.

Furthermore, the Canadian economy is slowly picking up but the number of jobs is still short 500,000 from pre-pandemic levels. Naturally, many Canadians are concerned.

As a result of these macroeconomic shifts in recent years, Canada is on the list of countries facing challenges trying to ensure food security for many of its citizens. There are no problems with food availability in Canada, except perhaps for the North.

Continued on Page 7

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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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City working toward year-round good neighbour recognition

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

There are hopes at City Hall to keep the volunteer spirit going well beyond the snow-shoveling season.

During the winter months, the city regularly recognizes “Snow Angels” who help clean their neighbours’ sidewalks during the winter months. The volunteers are recognized with letters from the city and one recipient is picked in a draw to receive a $50 gift card.

But that program only

lasts while there is snow on the ground. With snowshoveling season over, talk at City Hall has moved towards putting in place a program that could be much like the Snow Angels, but recognize neighborhood volunteers yearround.

What it would look like remains to be seen. One idea floated at council last week was to revive the “Neighbourhood Champion” program, which had been introduced at the tail end of Jim Puffalt’s time as city manager in 2018. It

was part of the “Eyes that Care” program where people could nominate neighbours who watched out for their property and notified them about such things as unlocked vehicles or doors, or had looked after their property while on vacation.

A $50 gift card was awarded, but the program was soon discontinued due to staff changes and declining participation. Administration suggested that program could be brought back, with the possibility of widening the program

and making the awards bimonthly.

But Councillor Kelli Hawtin was unimpressed by that idea, saying “I don’t think this is very exciting”.

In particular, she wanted to see something that would encourage participation and where people took “ownership.”

Her idea was to include the “Better Together” group who had made a presentation at the previous meeting in March.

That was the group that had T-shirts encouraging togetherness, with a view

to improve a sense of wellbeing, decrease loneliness and enhance social cohesion.

Hawtin saw an opportunity to partner up with them as sort of a “Better Together Neighbours” initiative, and wanted to see a “very energetic program that really encourages people to want to do good things - not just have the same maybe 12 people participating month to month to get swim passes.”

Mayor David Gillan was supportive of the idea of making Better Together

“bigger” and “more of a fabric of the community.”

“Just wearing shirts is not enough — you’ve got to have to live it, somehow,” said Gillan. “It’s got to be more than just the shirts — people have to care about what the shirts mean.”

No final decisions were made at the meeting on the issue. The indication at the meeting is the city intends to keep exploring the idea of such a program that could run year-round, which could include forming a partnership with Better Together.

Local fire departments see busy year so far Staff Reporter

It has been a busier year than usual so far for local fire departments.

In his latest report, North Battleford Fire Department chief Lindsay Holm reported a “larger number of fires” this year compared to last. His report, presented last week, showed six structure fires in the city for the year

through the end of March, with one of those fires happening in March.

That is double the number of structure fires for the same period last year.

Five are residential fires; one was a commercial fire.

Holm also reported Monday that the number would go up in the next report: with one residential fire on Saturday morning, and another again earlier on Monday morning.

Follow Battlefords News-Optimist on Facebook and @TheNewsOptimist on Twitter

When asked why there were so many fires, Holm responded that he couldn’t pinpoint anything to suggest they were “anything but unexpected.”

During the course on the fire investigations, there was “nothing that would indicate any kind of trends that I could identify that would lead me to believe otherwise,” said Holm.

Holm also noted the city is still under a fire ban, issued April 6. Holm noted there was a high amount of overgrown grass growth, which was very dry above ground. He said he would leave the fire ban in place until conditions improve, and that is not likely until 21043CC3

a substantial rainfall.

There have been a number of major fires in the Battlefords area in recent months that fire departments have had to respond to. The town of Battleford had to deal with two major structure fires during the winter months: one at the Battleford Esso car wash

and another at a local residence.

Most recently, the RM of Meota fire department had to spend several hours putting out a major grassfire on a Sunday afternoon, located just north of an oil steam plant.

There was a full response from Meota fire

department as well as assistance from the RM of North Battleford fire department, who provided a water truck on scene.

In the aftermath, a fire ban has been put in place in the RM of Meota. A burning ban has been in place for the RM of North Battleford since April 7.

Fire extinguished on 101st Street

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

A busy year for local fire crews got busier on Monday as they responded to another structure fire in the city.

This time it was a significant morning fire at a house on 101st Street near 15th Avenue.

At Planning Committee on Monday, Fire Chief Lindsay Holm reported that there was a “fairly major fire” at the loca-

tion. There had been concerns there might have been someone inside, but Holm said his firefighters were able to get in and determine there wasn’t.

Holm said he would be looking at demolishing the property as quickly as possible. The area would be fenced off, and he indicated the insurance company would be looking at the damage, but Holm expressed concern about the state of the property.

“It’s a very old home,

I believe built in approximately 1920,” Holm said.

The home doesn’t have wall decking like newer homes do, which mean the wall studs go from the floor all the way up to the rafters in the roof. There is considerable damage in one of the corners and Holm believed it wasn’t going to be safe.

“It’s something I’m going to take down as quickly as possibly if I can, just in the interest of public safety.”

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 7

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Cockrill supports budget: ‘what we needed to present’ Staff Reporter

Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill is fully in support the provincial budget that was brought down in the legislature recently.

“I think it’s a challenging economic and really just a challenging time that we’re in on all fronts as a society right now,” Cockrill said in an interview with the News-Optimist.

“Saskatchewan is not immune from that.”

The budget includes a deficit that has ballooned up to $2.6 billion, with spending to deal with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“You know, a deficit budget is not, I guess, the kind of budget that we ideally want to present,” said Cockrill, “but we felt that it was what we needed to present in this case to help protect and build and grow this province. And so ... people will point to the deficit as a negative perhaps, but it’s something that supports the economy in this province, supports the healthcare in this province. It’s something that we needed to do this time, but there are some exciting economic times ahead in this province.”

What Cockrill liked in the budget was its focus on keeping a number of campaign promises made in the 2020 election.

He pointed to one of the promises made in an appearance in the Battlefords

by Premier Scott Moe and the then-minister of rural and remote health Warren Kaeding to reduce ambulance fees for seniors and increasing the seniors income plan. “Those are two of the promises we kept in this budget.”

He also pointed to the active families benefit, the community rink grant, the hiring of community care aides.

Jeremy Cockrill in the Legislature. Screenshot from Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly

“It’s always a good thing when you can make good on those promises in the budget right after the election,” said Cockrill. “The people of this province, they responded well to those promises back during the campaign, and that’s because these are good things for this province and important investments that we need to make.”

From a Battlefords standpoint a few things stood out for Cockrill.

One is the capital investments in schools, including the planned $12 million renovation to John Paul II Collegiate. “It’s going to significantly transform a big chunk of that building and really improve the offerings in that school for years to come.”

As well, he pointed to the extension of the community airport partnership program, which North Battleford “has seen a lot of funding from that over the years.”

Cockrill also points to small-business tax rate reductions over the next number of years.

“Effective back in October, the small business tax rate is down to zero per cent, it’ll go back to one percent 2022 and then back to two percent in 2023. In the Battlefords we’ve got a

Food security Continued from Page 5 The rising costs of essential elements, coupled with salaries that are barely moving, have impacted Canadians.

The federal government will need to get a better sense of the real estate market conditions beyond the COVID-19 pandemic as interest rates may remain at historic lows for some time. As real estate prices go up, rents will eventually follow, meaning many tenants can only dream of owning a house. We’re already seeing rental costs rising from three to five per cent in some Canadian markets.

Because of the pandemic, some markets are more affected than others. Interestingly, the work-from-home phenomenon is impacting smaller markets, not just urban ones. Many people don’t have to live within commuting distance from their jobs.

According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, the greatest year-over-year percentage changes from February 2020 to February 2021 in average housing prices came from the Northwest Territories (up 48.1 per cent), Nova Scotia (up 30.4),

lot of small businesses and having that tax relief on the provincial side it’s really going to help the small businesses keep more of their profits in the community and reinvest in their businesses.”

One more item Cockrill found important was the focus on opening international trade offices. Four international trade offices have already been opened and the province has committed to four more.

“The government has always been focused on building the export opportunities, we’re an exporting province for fuel, food, and fertilizer,” said Cockrill.

“We talk a lot about developing new markets and that’s going to be key for us as we come out of COVID ... That’s a really big deal for the agricultural producers around the Battlefords and area.”

With respect to the budget, Cockrill was asked to be the government’s seconder to the budget motion by minister of finance Donna Harpauer, and he delivered that seconding speech in the Legislature last week.

Cockrill sits on Treasury Board, and said that during his time there he had a chance to work closely with minister Harpauer.

“That’s been a great experience,” he said.

“Having had a hand to build the budget, it was a great opportunity for me to stand up there and second that motion in the House.”

The feedback locally to the budget has been generally positive, said Cockrill.

He said he spoke to Battleford mayor Ames Leslie and got positive feedback from him including on the vaping tax that is being brought in in September.

“I expect this is a budget that will set us up well in the Battlefords and Saskatchewan for years to come.”

Ontario (up 24.5), Quebec (up 22.5), and New Brunswick (up 20.9 per cent).

Many economists believe a supplydeprived real estate market is driving prices higher. Increasing housing supplies in markets where demand is higher than ever, urban or not, should be a government priority.

The pandemic has also rejuvenated our collective discussion about a guaranteed minimum income. The pandemic has given us data on how Canadians behave when receiving financial aid from governments. We still know very little about how a guaranteed minimum income would help families cope with changing real estate conditions and higher housing costs.

The fabric of our workforce also changed due to the pandemic. Now more than ever, it may be time to have that conversation. Committing to nationally co-ordinated pilot projects to assess such a program is long overdue.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. © Troy Media

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Welcome to 2212-95 Street. This well cared for home features 5 bedrooms (3 up and 2 down), 2 baths and a double attached garage (20x24). The main floor has an open kitchen/dining room/living room with direct entry to back yard (yard is a bit larger at 68x110 ft). With 5 bedrooms there is ample space for a larger family. The lower level family room is very spacious and all carpets recently replaced. Close to walking trail, shopping mall, Tim Hortons. Let us show you this move in ready family home!

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Located in Battleford , this second level condo is move in ready! Open concept living, 2 bedrooms and a 4pc bath as well as in suite laundry. All appliances will remain. There is a large balcony with southern exposure, 2 storage areas and a natural gas bbq hook up. This unit includes a stall in the exterior heated garage.

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WALLY LORENZ MLS®SK838649 $374,900

2426 Buhler Avenue #401, North Battleford

Do not miss out on the last remaining condo unit in the Territorial Estates development. This condo offers 1216 square feet of living space with a large master bedroom and ensuite on the east side and a large bedroom with four piece bath on the west side of the unit. In the center you will find a large living room, dining room and kitchen area. Territorial Estates offers indoor parking, a common entertaining area, fitness room, and workshop room. This building was built in 2016 and has 8 inches of concrete between each level for a quiet living experience. Call today for more info.

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Be ready to be impressed, this 4 season cabin at the beautiful Chamakese resort, Chitek Lake is well treed, has plenty of space, privacy and room for everyone to enjoy lake life. 2BA, 4 BD, as well as the loft above the garage with a separate entrance allowing this property to sleep 16 people! Open floor plan, making it great for entertaining, tons of natural light, nat gas forced air heat plus a cozy wood stove. Attached garage, with access to the crawl space. Main floor laundry, water supplied by 2-1100 gal holding tanks. 1100-gal septic tank. Property is turn key with all furnishings included as viewed, so all you have to do is pack your bags and start enjoying lake life. Also available is the boat dock and lift, Boat dock space #41 is transferrable. Outdoor space features a large west facing deck, back yard with firepit area making it perfect for enjoying those summer days. This property is a perfect opportunity to get together with a few families and purchase as a group. Call today for more information.

SHAWNA SCHIRA-KROEKER MLS®SK848957 $395,000

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Very well cared for home. Here is a large 2 story home with an open entrance way leading to a large living room with a 3 way natural gas fireplace. In the kitchen there is an abundance of maple cabinets and a large walk-in pantry. This home has large windows on the main level so there is lots of natural light. On the second level there is 3 large bedrooms with an en-sutie off the master. For the owners convenience there is laundry on the second level. There is also another full bathroom and large theatre room (15x20) on the second level. The lower level has a rec room, a fourth bedroom, utility room and a fourth bathroom.

Outside you will find a very well cared for manicured yard with a deck overlooking the hot tub and fire pit area. Very private yard.it also has direct entry from the home to the double attached garage. There is a double concrete driveway plus a large gravel area for all the toys. Great family home in a good area.

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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BDCF scholarships presented to local students Submitted

Piper Mutch is the 2021 recipient of the award from the Hazel Asmussen Fund.

Photo submitted

Battlefords and District Community Foundation recently presented annual scholarships to two students from the Battlefords.

Piper Mutch is the 2021 recipient of the award from the Hazel Asmussen Fund. Piper is multitalented and has trained in trumpet, piano and voice. She will be attending the University of Alberta for the combined Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education degree program. Music has been an important part of her life and she looks forward to learning more and sharing it with others.

The Hazel Asmussen Fund

was established with BDCF in 2007. Hazel, a retired nurse and local artist, had long been involved in community building.

She created this fund to help post-secondary fine arts students with their school expenses.

The Peter Lewochko Fund provides annual scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education in agriculture, education or engineering. Peter’s profession was farming, and he established this scholarship in 2013 as a legacy to his belief in the value of education.

Torii Muzyka is the recipient of the award from the Peter Lewochko Fund. Torii will be attending Lakeland College in

Vermillion and taking the Crop Technology program. She looks forward to working in the agriculture industry and contributing to the family farm.

Battlefords and District Community Foundation currently manages more than 25 funds that will contribute to a range of interests from the arts and health care to post-secondary scholarships and recreation. BDCF will distribute over $50,000 in annual community grants and scholarships this year. To date, their donors have provided over $1,300,000 to community groups and projects. The foundation website at www.bdcf.ca has complete information.

Torii Muzyka is the recipient of the award from the Peter Lewochko Fund.

Photo submitted

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Festival winds up with piano entries: gala available online

By Kelly Waters Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

It’s not too late to catch the last couple of days of the 2021 Battlefords Music Festival. Free livestream viewing is at https://www. dek kercentre.com/live_ streaming.html.

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

Piano adjudicator, Janet Tieckur, grew up in rural Saskatchewan After completing music degrees from Prairie Bible College 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 and the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association.

Vocal sessions conclud-

Festival Fanfare Battlefords Kiwanis Musical Festival “I started my career in Dallas, yes. I was born and raised in Dallas. I started my career there when I was very young.

My guitar was bigger than I was. That’s how young I was.” ‑ Trini Lopez (1937- 2020), an American singer, guitarist, and actor. His first album included a cover version of Pete Seeger’s “If I Had a Hammer,” which earned a Golden Disc.

ed April 20 at the Dekker Centre with vocal adjudicator, Chris Kelly. Kelly is originally from Prince Albert. He earned with 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 Performance from the University of Western Ontario. Chris has been a sessional lecturer in the University of Saskatch-

ewan’s Department of Music teaching voice and serving as an accompanist.

Band sessions concluded April 2. A last-minute change of adjudicators brought in Jim McCarthy.

McCarthy is an established freelance musician with accolades in a wide range of skills: performing, composing, arranging, studio production, music education and instrument design and building. He graduated from Australia’s University

of Adelaide in 1996 with a master’s degree in music performance – percussion. He has maintained annual tours in Australia performing with Musica Viva in Schools as well as running various master classes and clinics. He also arranges music for school bands and produces sequences and recordings for The Fun Music Company. Additionally, he runs a web-based business that focuses on designing and building custom percussion instruments, as well as a subscription website that produces video tutorials for marimba technique and monthly critiques of percussion performances on YouTube. On his website, makeamarimba.com, one can see a variety of do-it-yourself or build-foryourself kits for marimbas, vibraphones, xylophones and glockenspiels.

Gala performances will be recorded one at a time Tuesday, April 27 at the Dekker Centre. Students chosen by the adjudicators will be contacted about a schedule. The celebratory showcase of these performances will be created for online viewing.

The gala should be available for viewing via the Dekker Centre website a few days after the record-

Despite navigating a pandemic, access to the Dekker Centre professional stage and concert grand makes for memorable performance experiences. The Dekker Centre professionally accommodated all needs in order for the festival to proceed amid complicated health restrictions.

ings.

Despite navigating a pandemic, access to the Dekker Centre professional stage and concert grand makes for memorable performance experiences. The Dekker Centre professionally accommodated all needs in order for the festival to proceed amid complicated health restrictions. Only participants, their teachers, accompanists, adjudicators, volunteers and Dekker Centre staff were allowed to enter the building. Safety precautions for those attending in person included

mask use, contract tracing information, assigned seating, social distancing, designated spots for storing instrument cases, no use of backstage areas and frequent sanitizing. Ensemble performances submitted recordings so as to keep the number of people in the theatre at one time to a minimal.

Here’s to the 2022 festival being less complicated.

Here’s to all the students, teachers, family and supportive public making the festival safe and possible during the unique times of 2021.

Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

You can learn more at saskatchewan.ca/budget

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Protect…the health and safety of Saskatchewan people and the economy in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by:

•$6.5 billion record level of health care funding •$4.8 billion in support to fight COVID-19, including $1.5 billion in this budget, $2 billion last year and a further $1.3 billion over the next two years •$90 million for specific COVID-19 health response

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

Rapid housing projects approved includes 15 homes for Saulteaux First Nation 20210415_News Optimist Ad_Budget PBG_Protect.indd 1

Staff

The federal government has announced a major investment going towards 84 units of affordable homes for Saskatchewan First Nations.

The announcement was made in Regina by the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing

Corporation (CMHC), and Adam Vaughan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. They announced approximately $17 million investment through the Projects Stream of the Rapid Housing Initiative for the immediate construction of 84 units of affordable homes, which will be built in nine Indigenous communities including Saulteaux First Nation,

4/15/2021 1:17:54 PM

which will build 15 homes under the program.

“Saulteaux is excited to have been selected for participation in the Rapid Housing Initiative. It will provide us the ability to build 15 new homes in our community. These new homes will address overcrowding and allow us to bring Saulteaux members home to the community.

Having family members close for First Nations has become ever more impor-

tant during these pandemic times,” said Kenny Moccasin, Saulteaux First Nation chief, in a statement.

The other homes will be built in Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation, Big River First Nation, Kahkewistahaw First Nation, Kinistin Saulteaux Nation, Lac La Ronge Indian Band, Muskoday First Nation, Waterhen Lake First Nation, and Witchekan Lake First Nation.

“Our Government is

taking steps, right now, to ensure that every Canadian has a safe and affordable place to call home,” said minister Hussein in a statement. “Our investments will go a long way to effectively support those who need it most by quickly providing new affordable housing units to vulnerable individuals and families, while addressing the unique barriers faced by communities such as First Nations in Saskatchewan.

Sask. expanding virtual health care options Staff

Online you can find the North Battleford WDM’s first virtual escape room.

Escape virtually at the WDM Staff

The Western Development Museum in North Battleford has launched its first virtual escape room.

According to the museum, participants will virtually enter various buildings in its Heritage Farm and Village. The goal is to solve “brainbusting puzzles” to unlock the secrets of the museum, with participants needing to find six keys to make their way out.

“We are super excited to launch the very first WDM Virtual escape room,” said Cheryl Stewart-Rahm,

Education and Public Programs Coordinator, in a news release. “We wanted to find a way that everyone could explore the Heritage Farm and Village, especially those who don’t live in North Battleford. The escape room is loads of fun and you will be able to visit some of the exhibits in the Heritage Farm and Village, virtually of course.”

The escape room runs April 12 to Aug. 31. The cost for WDM members of volunteers is $22.50, non-members $25. More information can be found at wdm.ca/ escaperoom.

The Ministry of Health and eHealth Saskatchewan are developing an action plan to enhance virtual services, focusing on security, privacy and user experience.

Saskatchewan’s priorities will include improvements or expansion in the following areas: Videoconferencing: A new secure videoconferencing solution is being explored to replace the current Telehealth technology, to meet clinical needs across the health system.

Remote Patient Monitoring: Remote monitoring is already being used to support more than 1,000 Saskatchewan residents who tested positive for COVID-19, as well as patients with other health concerns. One health care provider is able to monitor up to 100 patients at a time as they recover in their homes.

My Sa sk He a lth Re cord: eHealth Saskatchewan’s patient portal allows people to view their lab results online, including COVID-19 tests. More than 180,000 Saskatchewan residents can currently access their records.

Auto-dialer: The Saskatchewan Health Authority is working on the rollout of an Auto-dialer system which notifies residents by phone or text within 24 hours of a lab-confirmed negative COVID-19 test result. People who test positive continue to receive a phone call from public health.

From March to December 2020, Saskatchewan patients participated in more than 1.7 million virtual appointments with a physician, according to billing data. While the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated use of virtual care technology, expansion of technology solutions is helping improve access to care for residents in rural or remote areas, and providing greater convenience for patients who need to connect with a physician for basic concerns.

“It is critical that we have the appropriate systems and technology in place to support virtual health care services, for the safety of both our residents and health care providers,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “We know that investing today will improve patients’ access to care and support privacy

and security of health information. It will also help relieve pressure on the health system during the pandemic.”

“Physicians are open to new ways of providing services to residents, and having more virtual care options will ultimately improve residents’ access to care,” SHA Senior Medical Information Officer Dr. Vern Behl said. “In addition to secure videoconferencing and messaging solutions, investment will be needed to ensure improved information flow which is foundational to good virtual care, moving away from our paper based systems to electronic Health Information Systems. This allows for improved patient and family engagement and involvement in their own care, as well as better communication between our health care teams. It is encouraging to see investments in technology that will support this important work.”

In support of this work, Saskatchewan has signed a bilateral agreement with the Government of Canada to expand virtual care services. Under the agreement, Saskatchewan will receive almost $6.5 million.

This is the National Housing Strategy at work.”

“Improving Indigenous housing outcomes must be a priority for the Government of Canada. Creating new stock of affordable and safe housing for indigenous peoples is just one way we can partner with First Nations to improve housing conditions and alleviate core housing need,” said Vaughan in a statement.

Golf club now open

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Golfers, get ready to hit the links.

North Battleford Golf and Country Club opened Friday, April 16.

This year marks the 50th year for the golf club. According to their Facebook post, “The N.B Turf Crew, our administration staff and our board have been working tirelessly to kick off our 50th A N N I V E R SA RY season! Stay tuned for BIG announcements all year long!”

The COVID-19 protocols that have been in place since last year are still in effect, with golfers asked to practice physical distancing of minimum six feet at all times.

The golf course states they will be relying on full cooperation by all patrons, and any golfers violating physical distancing and on-site measures will be removed. The pro shop will be open from 9 a.m. until the last tee time has finished.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 11

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Quilters hold first meeting since December

Q

The

uilt Patch

River’s Edge Quilt Guild

By Anna Waldbillig Guild Member

Rivers Edge Quilt Guild had their regular monthly business meeting April 9 with nine members in attendance. This is the first

meeting we have had since December due to COVID-19.

We had a great show and tell. We have many gifted ladies in our club.

We are all getting restless from being house

bound from winter and COVID. The members have tried to keep busy with quilting and other projects. Many comfort quilts and bags for their walkers were made for the care facilities and

children’s dresses that will be sent to Guatamala in May. Members are able to work in the craft room at the Don Ross Centre Monday, Thursday and Friday.

Most have been working at

home.

New members are always welcome. For information call Leslie at 306-937-7470 or Bonnie at 306-386-3116.

Everyone stay safe and healthy.

BATC gets funding from Nation Rebuilding Program

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Seven Indigenous groups in Saskatchewan are receiving funding from the federal government through the Nation Rebuilding Program, and among them is Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Inc. Honourable Jim Carr, Special Representative for the Prairies, made the announcement on Monday on behalf of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations. The overall amount the federal government is providing is $2.4 million, to be allocated to BATC and six other groups: Anishnabek Nations Treaty

Authority, Cowessess First Nation, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, Prince Albert Grand Council, Red Earth Cree Nation and Treaty 10.

It is part of a $100 million investment by the government over five years (since 2018) to “support Indigenous groups’ efforts towards developing their own path to reconstituting their nations,” according to the government’s news release.

According to Kathy Kissick, chief financial officer for BATC, they had submitted a proposal to Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) for 2020-21, as part of a

multi-year submission for 2020-23 as a collaborative Nation Rebuilding Program for their seven nations: Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, Moosomin First Nation, Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First nation, Red Pheasant First Nation, Saulteaux First Nation, Stoney Knoll Band and Sweetgrass First Nation.

In August 2020 they were approved for first year funding of $445,120, and they are currently working with CIRNAC to have the second year of funding approved.

With each year of funding, BATC states they are able to work towards the overarching goal of the

BATC Nation Rebuilding Program, which is: “to collaboratively restore all of our BATC First Nations into self-sufficient, selfdetermined and self governing Indigenous nations, which are built on strong, vibrant economies, supported by happy, healthy workers and their families,

living peacefully and harmoniously on our Sacred Indigenous lands.”

“Strong, self-reliant Indigenous nations, who are able to govern effectively and fulfill their right to self-determination, are critical to improving well-being and economic prosperity in Indigenous

communities,” said Carr in a statement. “The Government of Canada is pleased to support Indigenous groups in Saskatchewan as they develop their own path towards revitalizing and rebuilding their nations, through the Nation Rebuilding Program.”

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wealth www.innovationwealth.ca A $282.94 donation has been made to the Western Development Museum in North Battleford by Jim Schmidt of Battlefords Harness Club Inc. Accepting is Cheryl Stewart-Rahm – Education and Volunteer Coordinator. Photo submitted

Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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Borden farmers market set to open May 7

B

orden& Radisson

Eileen Petrun, treasurer Connie Kinakin, secretary Lorraine Olinyk and board member Martha Rempel.

There is interest in two or three new members joining the market.

The Borden Friendship Club held their monthly regular meeting and annual meeting in the club room April 14 with 14 attending. A treasurer’s report indicated that from April 1, 2020 to March 30, 2021 the club had income of $7,049, which included a Safe restart grant of $3,000 from the federal government and a Sask Lotteries grant of $1,119 to buy

used by club members and their families only but if room is rented out, the renters may use them but a member of the club must be in charge.

Brenda reported that 20 new barrels had been purchased and the committee will be emptying out the old barrels and replacing the soil. Ian Tracksell is donating old manure and the Borden Co-op has donated two bags of peat moss.

The barrels will be placed around town and planted with flowers in May. Borden is having a COVID-19 vaccination clinic in the Borden Community Centre April 22 and 23. Appointments must be booked. Book by phone at 833-727-5829 (open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week) or go online to http://www.saskatchewan. ca/COVOID19-vaccine.

There will be a clinic in Borden every month until September, following the SHA guidelines for age eligibility. The majority of Borden and area residents 55 and older will have received their first shots by end of April.

The Borden United Church will no longer have Gayle Wensley hired as minister after April 30, but will still have services every Sunday in St. John’s Church at 1:30 p.m. in May and June with Gayle presiding over two each month and the board members presiding over the other four services. If COVID-19 rules are relaxed by the end of June, the church hopes to have a closing service June 27. Gayle Wensley will still be preaching at Speers every Sunday and in Battleford three services a month.

Coady Dhery elected reeve of RM of Glenside Correspondent

There was an election for reeve of the RM of Glenside April 7 at the RM office in Biggar. Coady Dhery was elected out of three candidates. Coady will take over after Almer Dove passed away in January.

Former Baljennie resi-

B

aljennie

dent, Vernon Custer, had his first COVID-19 vaccination in January, then in February became ill with COVID-19. He recovered in late Febru21044PM1 21045PM0 21052PM0

ary. Vernon now has had his second COVID-19 vaccination. He was in the hospital in palliative care for five days last week, but now is back at River Heights Lodge. Vernon is slowly getting his strength back and hoping for a full recovery.

Fire bans are being issued by most RMs in the area. Those planning to burn should obtain a permit and take great care. A lack of moisture has left last year’s growth in a tinder-dry condition.

It is almost planting time and nurseries are starting to open up offering many varieties to choose from. Everyone is doing more gardening due to COVID-19. Plants will sell out fast. Seed supplies are also running low or are

even sold out.

The ice on the North Saskatchewan and Battle Rivers has broken up. Take care when near the rivers.

Also be careful near dugouts and ponds. The ice is not safe.

Finning Cat building west of Battleford on Highway 16 is busy as a site for administering COVID-19 vaccinations. It will take some time as there are many left to be inoculated.

Curling fans will know that Sweden prevailed at the world men’s curling championship held in the Calgary bubble earlier this month. The organizers had formed a perfect bubble until the last three games. There was report of COVID-19 positive tests that disrupted proceedings temporarily. Canada’s team

earned an Olympic berth.

World women’s curling is slated to begin April 30 and run until Mother’s Day. Warmer weather is well on the way. Grasses are starting to green up. The crocuses are in bloom. The crows, gulls and Canada geese are back and nesting. Other spring birds are beginning to arrive. The whooping and sand hill cranes are passing through with a few stopovers in the area. The gophers are out and about.

The farmers have been busy hauling product to market and getting new seed to plant. They are also getting their spring machinery lined up and repairs done to be ready to go. Some field work has started and will be in full swing soon.

We’re HERE because YOU’RE here.

Your curiosity fuels our commitment to keep you informed on local news, events and businesses.

Together, we make a community that’s connected every minute at newsoptimist.ca and every Thursday in your The Battlefords Regional NEWS-OPTIMIST DS

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Borden and District Farmers Market held their annual meeting April 10 in the Borden Friendship Centre with 12 members registering. In the president’s report, Karen Kerr noted 11 members paid dues in 2020. The market ran from July to October, with no Christmas sale.

There were 114 stall rentals and the 50/50 draw each week netted what was formerly made in coffee donations.

The financial report showed the market ended the year with a healthy bank account.

This year’s market will operate from May 7 until Oct. 1 or 9 in the Borden Friendship Centre from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. with set up at 9 a.m. Membership fees are $10, with yearly dues set at $10. Rent is $10 for larger tables and $5 for small tables. Seniors’ centre rental each week will be $50.

The Christmas sale in the Borden Community Centre was set for Nov. 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., depending on pandemic rules in place by then.

The market plans to put up two large signs east of Borden and by the bridge.

The board remained the same: president Karen Kerr, vicepresident

greeting cards – Rosann Carr and Lorraine Olinyk; Kaiser – John and Eileen Petrun; flower barrels – Elaine Gunsch, Peter Thiessen, Dianne Rawlyk and Brenda Tumbach; lunch – Bev Assman, L. Olinyk, D. Rawlyk, Doreen Flath, Bev Hrynuik (buyer), Rosann Carr, Ruby Wall and Barb Leschyshyn and others willing to help when needed – Shirley Whitt, Elaine Gunsch, Miriam Hamm and Martha Rempel.

The yearly fees were to remain at $15. An end of July supper at Rawlyk’s acreage was tentatively set for July 28, depending on the pandemic rules by then.

Games purchased with Sask Lotteries grant were ladder game, croquet set, patio shuffleboard set, horseshoes and bunnock set. The games are to be

B AT T

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sporting/games equipment.

Expenses were $5,413. The bingo account has more than $2,000 and an In Motion account more than $200. The club also has three term deposits leaving the club with a healthy balance.

Officers elected were: president Eileen Petrun, secretary Lorraine Olinyk, vice-president Sandra Long and treasurer Bev Assman.

Florence Neufeld will do room bookings. Committee members brought forth by the nominating committee Brenda Tumbach are: bingo – Bev Assman, Gary Palmer, John Petrun and Sandra Long; caretaking – Gary Palmer with help; choir director – Marlene Derbawka; decorating – Brenda Tumbach and Ilene Youchezin; entertainment – Ruben Rempel, Peter Thiessen and Ron Mills;

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Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 13

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Canadian magazine features young Unity cattleman

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involved with cattle all his life as his dad, Alan, is a cattleman too. From a young age he was highly involved in 4-H and cattle shows.

Blushrose Simmental Farm was founded 42 years ago by Keith and Agar Bloder. The heads of the operation have changed over the years, and Bloder says he is proud to be part of it. Bloder, Maxi and his parents, Alan and Heather Bloder, operate the cattle farm together. Bloder credits the help of his parents for his ability to be involved in the business.

Start-up costs are prohibitive, he says.

Bloder’s passion for what he does comes through as he talks about the farm’s purebred Simmental herd.

“We have some halfblood cows that go back to Angus that we use sometimes for our embryo program,” Bloder explains.

“We use artificial insemination and embryo transfer on our farm in order to use the best genetics from around the world, as well as flushing our own cows and transferring em-

Corey Bloder, 26-yearold cattleman from Unity, was featured in the February issue of the Canadian Cattleman magazine.

While this national magazine story highlighted the college encounter that led to Bloder and his girlfriend, Maxi Biederstadt, getting together, his story offers other insights into a passion that is now embraced by his partner.

Bloder and Biederstadt studied animal science technology at Lakeland College in Vermilion, Alta. and both were part of the student-managed farm at Lakeland. While Biederstadt grew up in Germany, moving to Canada with her family when she was 12, her interest in the Canadian agriculture industry grew, especially after she and Bloder connected.

“The enthusiasm they bring as young people in the ag industry bodes well for their operation and future,” says Canadian Cattleman of the couple’s partnership.

Bloder says he has been

Corey Bloder and his girlfriend, Maxi Biederstadt, studied animal science technology at Lakeland College in Vermilion, Alta. and both were part of the student-managed farm at Lakeland. While Biederstadt grew up in Germany, moving to Canada with her family when she was 12, her interest in the Canadian agriculture industry grew, especially after she and Bloder connected. Photo submitted

bryos into other cows. This spring we put in 40 embryos, letting us take our best cows and getting multiple

calves a year off of them.”

Bolder says a major store of his knowledge of cattle and breeding has

come from on-the-job training.

“Most of my knowledge was gained from working

alongside Dad and Grandpa from a young age. There wasn’t anything that I Continued on next page

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Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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Be bear aware

They are waking up now that spring is here Submitted With spring in full swing, the Ministry of Environment is reminding people to be bear aware.

Black bears normally emerge from hibernation as the weather warms in late March through April. This is timed with availability of the first foods of the year, often green shoots, grasses and tree buds.

Bears can be found in many areas of the province. Their range includes all northern Saskatchewan forests and extends southward into the aspen parkland. It also includes some isolated ranges, such as the Touchwood Hills, the Qu’Appelle Valley and the South Saskatchewan River Valley.

It’s important to

remember that we share the landscape with bears.

To help minimize conflict with these animals, landowners are encouraged to keep their yards free of attractants.

Bears are ruled by their stomachs and are intelligent animals. If they cannot find food, they will leave the area.

When bears start to associate food with humans they become habituated, a nuisance, and a public safety concern.

Whether you live, work or spend time in bear country, by not taking precautions with attractants - such as household waste you create a safety risk for yourself, your community and the bears.

Here is what you can do: Store refuse in a secure building or buy a bear21044PR0

resistant container. Only put your garbage bin out on the morning of collection.

Wash all recycling items and regularly clean garbage or recycling bins.

Avoid leaving pet food accessible to wildlife.

Only use bird feeders in the winter when bears are hibernating.

Do not add fish, meat, fat, oils, unrinsed eggshells or any cooked food to compost bins.

Properly clean and store barbecue grills after each use.

If you have an aggressive encounter with a bear, and/

Magazine features Unity couple

Continued from previous page didn’t enjoy doing as a kid on the farm. I usually sat at school all day waiting to get home to go do what I really wanted to do.”

Both Bloder and Biederstadt consider their college experience a credit to helping them evolve in their farming operation.

Bloder studied livestock nutrition, disease and treatments, cattle marketing, anatomy, agriculture business, genetics and many other topics at Lakeland College. He says his main takeaway from post-secondary study was the importance of cattle nutrition.

Black bears normally emerge from hibernation as the weather warms in late March through April. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Environment

or if public safety is at risk, call the Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561 or from your SaskTel cell phone at #5555.

To report concerns about nuisance bear(s), contact the ministry’s general inquiry line at 1-800-567-4224 or by email at centre.inquiry@

gov.sk.ca.

Additional information about bears and bear safety is available at www. saskatchewan.ca/wildlifeissues.

Feeding cattle is science, he says.

The Lakeland program is a strong one in Bloder’s view, citing the hands-on aspect of study there.

“You learn best by physically being out there and putting in the time. A realization evolves, when you participate with 40 other students from across North America, that there are many different ways of doing things and just because you always did something a certain way, doesn’t mean it’s always the best way,” says Bloder.

“Learning to adapt and change while not being afraid to try new techniques is a key of progressing. You don’t ever get ahead without taking risks.”

Bloder notes the business also includes cattle

shows and bull sales. They raise bulls with the commercial producer in mind and sell cattle into purebred operations. They have sold cattle across western Canada and even into the United States. They are also working towards a fall production sale for females and are hoping to have close to 300 cows bred this spring.

COVID-19 restrictions make showing and marketing cattle more challenging. Bloder says they adapted by conducting a bull sale on DLMS Farm Gate Timed Auction last year.

Blushrose Simmental Farm also produces hay and grain for farm use, and marketing. The diversification allows them to use land in different ways.

“If you take care of the

land, for the most part, it will take care of you,” says Bloder.

In Bloder’s view, the best aspect of the cattle business is learning from other producers and seeing how other operations are run.

One enjoyable aspect of the operation is delivering cattle to customers, as it allows them to see how every operation is run and see what their seed stock does for other producers.

Bloder says they try to tour as many commercial operations as they can to get to know as many cattle operations as they can. These tours help them learn for the future of their operation.

“Big thing in agriculture is learning from your mistakes,” says Bloder.

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

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Health Canada looking for input on gene editing

By Spencer Kemp

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The World-Spectator

From now until May 24, 2021, Health Canada is calling for public consultation on new guidelines for plant breeding innovation.

Health Canada has proposed guidelines and regulations to allow for foods produced through gene-editing to be included in the 2006 Guidelines for the Safety Assessment of Novel Foods.

According to Erin Gowriluk, Executive Director of the Grain Growers of Canada (GGC), plant breeding techniques have been advancing around the world, but Canada’s regulatory guidance has not been able to keep up.

She notes that Health Canada’s proposal is a step in the right direction.

“Health Canada launched their consultation this week and it’s an important one because it’s a conversation the sector has been having with officials at Health Canada for a number of years. It’s important because Canadian farmers, as you well know, compete in the national marketplace. So what happens in Canada relative to other jurisdictions, especially our competitors, has a real impact on whether or not Canadian farmers can be competitive in the international marketplace,” said Gowriluk.

“When we see countries like Australia for example or the United States moving in this direction and making the regulatory pathway for plant breeding innovation like gene-editing technology more trans-

parent, more predictable, and frankly more appropriate that puts Canadian farmers at a competitive disadvantage.

“So what we’re seeing now in these discussion documents, we feel it means that Health Canada is moving in the right direction.”

She explains that these new guidelines would help entice multi-national companies to establish locations in Canada.

“Many companies that offer products and services here in Canada and around the world are multinational companies and they have to make a choice as to where they make an investment. We want the Canadian marketplace to be an environment where they see value in that investment. As it stands right now, the regulatory environment for geneediting technology is unclear. It doesn’t provide a clear pathway. So when you are met with that level of uncertainty, you don’t know how much time it will take to get the necessary approval and the level of investment that will be required, but you have that certainty and clarity in other jurisdictions? As a multi-national company that is where you will make your investments. You’ll make your investments in a country that does provide greater regulatory certainty.”

Gowriluk encourages farmers to share their voice and their thoughts on the proposed guidelines as it benefits the Canadian market.

“We want Canada to follow suit. We want Canada to be more like

the like-minded countries that we work with like the United States, Australia, Japan, Latin-American countries who are all moving in this direction.

We think it’s important to level the playing field in the international market for Canadian farmers by making sure that these multi-national companies are making investments in Canada too.”

Gerry Hertz, who is a farmer in Edenwold, Sask., says that gene-editing is important for Canadian producers and would allow them to keep up with the ever-advancing national market.

“In general, Health Canada’s decision is that gene-editing is safe and that during this consultation period they’re asking for responses back. I think it’s a good idea that farmers send their confirmation to Health Canada that yes, gene-editing is very important for us and it is a clean way to do what we’ve been doing for thousands of years. It’s different than a genetically modified organism so you can’t compare the two, but really what it comes down to is that we’re in favour of what decision has been made so far.”

Hertz also notes that not keeping up with the national market would impact both producers and geneediting researchers as well.

“Countries like the United States, Australia, Japan, they all approved genetic engineering in the past year, if not earlier than that, and the reality is that investment and the people who are doing the research are going to go to where their research is welcome.

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A rye crop in Saskatchewan. Health Canada is asking for public consultation on the new guidelines for plant breeding innovation in Canada. Rob Paul, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

And from that perspective, yes, the sooner we get things done and approved the sooner we strengthen our industry.

“We don’t want to lose researchers to other parts of the world where certain techniques have been approved, so they’re worried it won’t be approved here and so they leave. That’s what we’re worried about.

We want to keep those brains in Canada and actually entice them to stay. We have to be fast on making sure that a quick decision is made and the right decision as well.”

Hertz notes that from

his perspective, the guidelines are a step in the right direction and would provide producers with new opportunities as well.

“In general we’re happy with the guidelines.

They’ve come out basically saying it’s a safe procedure and really what it is that when we were doing research and genetic breeding in the past you’d breed crop and you’d get the good, the bad and the ugly, then you’d try to improve that and get more of the good. What we can do now with gene-editing is you can go in and actually edit the plant, like looking

in a book at a specific line for a specific word and improving on that.

“Really it’s a safe way of doing what we’ve always been doing and a really fast way too. All that stuff is very important to us to get to our research and accomplish something a lot faster than we used to. We have to keep up with the rest of the world, we have enough taxes being thrown our way and we need to have some positive things to work on too.”

To take part in the survey, producers visit canada.ca/en/health-canada

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Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Unity-based NWT announces dividend

By John Cairns News-Optimist Staff Reporter

It has been announced by the board of North West Terminal Ltd. of Unity that shareholders are receiving a dividend of $0.15 per share.

This dividend goes to all its Class A and B shareholders, of which there are 3,277,915 outstanding Class A and B shares combined.

In addition, Class A shareholders also receive a $0.33 per share preferential dividend, with a totalof just over $506,500 returned to shareholders.

The company states that April 15 is set as the date of record for all holders of Class A and B shares; dividend cheques will be mailed in May, 2021.

The company original shares were issued at a price of $3.33 per share in 1995; additional shares were issued in 2000 at $3.67 per share and in 2007 at $5.63 per share.

“The Board of Directors is pleased to be paying a dividend to shareholders - especially during these challenging times created by the pandemic,” says NWT’s President Brad Sperle in a news release. “This announcement marks the first dividend payout under our new dividend policy and reflects the Board’s philosophy to pay shareholders regular dividends. The new dividend policy is intended to strike a balance by returning money to shareholders annually while ensuring that the Company has sufficient resources to maintain and grow its operations,” said Sperle who farms near Unity.

NWT is an independent farmer-shareholder owned company which owns and operates an inland-grain terminal and a value-added production facility at its Unity location. They are also minority owners of Alliance Seed Corp. in Winnipeg, and Alliance Grain Terminal Ltd. in Vancouver.

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$691M for poultry and egg farmers

By Cloe Logan

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Canada’s National Observer

Turkey, chicken and egg farmers will soon receive federal support to offset losses stemming from a trade deal allowing more international imports of poultry and eggs.

The Ministry of Agriculture announced this month that $691 million will be distributed over the next decade to the country’s 4,800 chicken, turkey and egg farmers. International imports of poultry and eggs were upped when Canada signed on to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a free trade deal with 10 countries in the Asia-Pacific.

It follows a December announcement from the feds guaranteeing $1.4 billion in the next three years for dairy farmers, also as compensation for the impact of recent trade deals.

This week’s announcement is welcome news for the British Columbia Chicken Growers Association, which says the province’s industry faces a unique set of obstacles.

“B.C. is a high-cost province because we have to bring all our feed into

B.C. That’s definitely a challenge in British Columbia compared to other provinces that are closer to their food supply,” said Jennifer Curtis, associate manager for the association.

“This is good news.

It’s the news farmers have been waiting for.”

The support will come in two programs: one that will direct $630 million to egg and poultry farmers by funding operation improvements, and one that will fund promotional activities for turkey farmers ($36.5 million) and chicken farmers ($25 million).

Under the CPTPP, 19 million dozen more eggs each year can be brought into Canada. Combined with two other trade deals, CUSMA and WTO, the deals mean seven per cent of combined market access for current domestic egg production — the equivalent of all of Atlantic Canada’s egg output.

Agriculture and AgriFood Minister MarieClaude Bibeau acknowledged the industries’ struggle at an April 13 press conference. The implementation of the country’s supply management system in the 1960s has ensured stability in the industries, said Bibeau.

“It assures a supply of high-quality, Canadian-

The 10-year support program is to compensate producers for the impact of recent trade deals.

Photo by Monserrat Soldú / Pexels

grown products for consumers produced with respect to animal welfare and the environment,” she said.

“At the same time, we fully recognize that the CPTPP will have an impact on the poultry and egg sectors. Our governments have pledged to fully and fairly compensate all the supply management sector for market losses from their recent trade agreements.”

Intake for the funds will be launched later this spring, with up to 70 per cent of the project costs covered by the government — and that hops to 85 per cent for young Canadian farmers (35 years old and under as of Jan. 1, 2021), a demographic that has been hit especially hard in the industry.

“A producer could use the funds to improve ventilation, feeding, lighting,

seating or guard design or invest in wind or solar energy to reduce costs and their environmental footprint,” said Bibeau.

Darren Ference, an Alberta turkey farmer and chair of Turkey Farmers of Canada, is excited for his industry to start receiving funds. He says the CPTPP opened access to 71 per cent of the domestic turkey market, and that concern has been bubbling in the sector since the deal.

“The CPTPP will have a direct impact on each dirty farmer in this country and our farmers have expressed their worries,” he said. “... Mitigation support in the form of market development and investment programs will ensure that turkey farmers can continue to deliver safe, nutritious, high-quality turkey raised with the highest animal welfare standards to Canadian consumers.”

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 17

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Bee nucs - shop locally for best results Bees are important pollinators for many of our plants and if we are talking honey bees, they produce the most delectable product – honey! Nothing beats a fresh piece of homemade bread toasted with butter and homegrown honey! I had mentioned Bee Nucs in the column and my mailbox has been inundated so people can learn more about what Bee Nucs are and how to get started having your own honey bees.

First and foremost, Bee Nucs or nucleus colonies are not a bee hive. Bee Nucs are made up of overwintered colonies and are sold by experienced beekeepers. They are a great option to getting your beekeeping season off to a strong start as they, like plants are best purchased as close to home and your local climate as possible. Purchasing quality Nucs from a similar climate will give your bees a head start as they are already excellently suited for the cold over-wintering

H

anbidge on Horticulture

By Patricia Hanbidge

climate in Saskatchewan.

They also already contain a high quality, professionally bred queen bee which gives a head start to the season. If you populate your hive with a Package of bees, these are typically shipped in from far away and are often stressed due to the long travel they have undergone to get to you.

It is important to educate yourself if you are thinking of keeping bees.

You want to be successful and you of course will want to follow the regulations. For example, anyone who keeps any bees will need to register your bees

with the provincial apiarist and there are strict regulations for crossing borders – even provincial borders within Canada. Years ago it used to be much simpler as there were less pest and disease problems, but there are lots of resources available that will help you be successful. Take an introductory course, read and collect some quality books and check out local sources like https://saskbeekeepers.com/info/new-to-beekeeping/ Orchid Horticulture has been doing some work with Grassland Honey located close to Saskatoon

and in partnership with the Saskatoon Bee Club, we are putting on a presentation in the next few weeks that will be all about what to plant to attract bees and how to plant up your bee yard (the location of your bee hives) to ensure the longest possible production season. This presentation is available free of charge but will require registration so we can properly accommodate those that are interested.

Nucs come in a variety of sizes but the Nucs for sale from Grassland Honey consist of a five frame cardboard nucleus box which will contain brood, (two frames brood and bees), eggs, larva, pollen, honey and a bred queen.

They are inspected by the Provincial Aprculturist and the spring treatments will be completed. The cost to purchase is $260 and a $60 deposit will confirm your order. If you are interested or have questions, please call or

Bee nucs are one method of getting a bee colony off to a strong start early in the season. Photo submitted

text 306-380-4457 or go to the website at https://www. grasslandhoney.ca/ As the sun warms the ground, we will see more activity by all types of bees. It is important to remember that each and every individual can contribute to the preservation of bees and other pollinators. In order for bees to be the most productive, a very diverse environment is necessary. A diverse en-

vironment contains trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals so there is always cover on the ground and there is always something growing. Have a very happy spring!!

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort. com; on facebook @ orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort.

Increase seen in wholesale trade of farm products Staff

Statistics Canada has released indicators showing wholesale trade in Saskatchewan increased by 25.3 per cent (seasonallyadjusted), in February 2021 compared to February

2020, which was the largest percentage increase among the provinces.

Nationally, wholesale trade increased 6.5 per cent over the same period.

In February 2021, major increases were seen yearover-year in several sectors

in Saskatchewan, including farm products up 39 per cent, and machinery, equipment and supplies increasing 31 per cent.

The value of wholesale trade in February 2021 was more than $2.5 billion.

“A remarkable 25

per cent increase in wholesale trade growth shows that Saskatchewan is leading Canada’s economic recovery,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said.

“These strong wholesale trade numbers,

a leading economic indicator, coupled with the best vaccine roll-out plan in the country, shows our province will see a quicker economic recovery than other jurisdictions.”

In February 2021, the value of wholesale trade

in Saskatchewan increased by 4.0 per cent from January 2021 (seasonally-adjusted).

In comparison, Canada as a whole saw a monthover-month decline of 0.7 per cent during the same period.

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Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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Moe sees opportunity with irrigation expansion

By Brian Zinchuk

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Estevan Mercury

One of the cornerstone announcements in the last year for the Saskatchewan agriculture sectors has been the launch of the Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Expansion Project by the provincial government.

The April 6 budget was the first provincial budget since that announcement, but so far, the dollar figures are relatively small – just $18.9 million this year for the Westside Expansion Project. But Premier Scott Moe sees a big future, a little further down that water pipeline, as it were.

Asked when will we start seeing big dollars towards that $4 billion project, Moe replied, “The first phase of that project, I believe, is a pegged at about a half a billion dollars.

That’s the expansion of the west side, which will open

Premier Scott Moe in the Legislature. Screenshot courtesy of Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan

up … acres for irrigation. It is really the start of building that industry, that irrigation industry, and changing even the crops and the value of with the crops that we grow in that area, which ultimately leads to the attraction of different value-added food proces-

sors that we currently don’t have here in the province.”

He said that would lead Saskatchewan to then leverage the strength of that industry to expand to the entire west side and then ultimately come down with the lower Qu’Appelle project, providing that impor-

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tant water security to communities like Moose Jaw and Regina.

That water security isn’t only important, in the food processing industry, but also in other industries, like the steel industry and potash, that use water.

Moe said that it would and provide water security for that entire economic package and ultimately for the people of southeastern Saskatchewan.

“What you’re seeing is we’re moving as quickly as we can on this file, ensuring we’re doing our due diligence at every step of the way. But we’ve had the design and architecture engineering firm has been awarded, as we know, to a Saskatchewan firm. And they’re working on some of the design and ultimately, working towards a construction contract where we would start actually moving dirt for that Phase 1 of the project. That’s where we’re into. And moving through Phase 1, you’re going to see that same design and engineering firms start to turn their sights on to Phase 2, as we expect that Phase 1 will have very rapid uptake by the folks that are in that area.”

Moe said it would “most certainly will start to build a very different agriculture industry in certain parts of this province than we have seen in Saskatchewan, over the course of the history of our province, and ultimately, provide that water security for various other industries and municipalities to have for years in the future as well.”

Other ag announcements The 2021-22 provincial budget includes a $23.1 million increase to the

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Ministry of Agriculture budget which will help the industry grow and ensure Saskatchewan producers are able to continue supplying the world with safe, high-quality food, according to a Ministry release.

The $386.9 million agriculture budget represents a six per cent increase from the 2020-21 budget.

“The importance of a secure, reliable and safe food supply chain is essential for our citizens and for our economy,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said in a release. “The 202122 agriculture budget will once again fully fund business risk management programs, provide a record level of per-acre coverage under the Crop Insurance Program, continue last year’s record investment in agriculture research, and make important investments in irrigation expansion.”

The agriculture budget includes a $20.6 million increase to business risk management funding, compared to 2020-21. This will provide $265 million to fund a suite of business risk management programs, which are delivered as part of the federal-provincial Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP).

The $150.1 million 2021 Crop Insurance Program includes average coverage of $273 an acre.

This is a new record for per-acre coverage under the program and represents an $11.1 million increase from 2020-21. The 2021 Crop Insurance Program featured additional options for producers seeking to insure their tame hay acres, an increase in Native Forage Establishment Benefit coverage, updates to the base grade for large-seeded Kabuli chickpeas, the introduction of the Commercial Vegetable Pilot Program, and increases to the establishment benefit values for canola, lentils, chickpeas and corn.

This year’s budget also contains an additional $2 million for the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program, which compensates Saskatchewan producers for crop damage and predation caused by wildlife, to address stronger commodity prices.

This program is available to all Saskatchewan producers; you do not need to be an existing Crop Insurance customer to qualify for coverage, the Ministry said.

The Ministry of Agriculture said it “remains committed to funding innovation and growth in the industry. The 2021-22 Agriculture budget will also once again include $32.9 million in funding for agriculture research, which matches last year’s record level of funding for research.”

Additional investments will also be made to expand

irrigation in Saskatchewan, with an increased $2.5 million for irrigation development projects. This funding will help to advance projects in areas outside of the Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Expansion Project, through existing irrigation development programming. Expanding irrigation is part of Saskatchewan’s 2030 Growth Plan.

The Growth Plan also aims to increase crop production to 45 million tonnes, increase livestock cash receipts to $3.0 billion, double agriculture value-added revenue to $10 billion and expand agrifood exports to $20 billion. Once again, the Agriculture budget includes $71.2 million for strategic programs under the CAP agreement. CAP programs provide funding for agricultural research, markets and trade, value-added agriculture, environmental sustainability and public trust.

The Ministry said that 2020 once again demonstrated the resilience of the Saskatchewan agriculture sector. Producers harvested the second-largest crop on record at more than 39 million tonnes. Saskatchewan agri-food exports also reached a new high last year of $16.9 billion, accounting for more than 55 per cent of total provincial exports in 2020.

Wheat Growers The Western Canadian Wheat Growers said they are supportive of the 2021 Saskatchewan budget and the funding that it provides to the agriculture industry across the province.

“Today’s provincial budget provides the appropriate levels of support for the agriculture industry, especially during a pandemic. No new tax increases and no decrease in the budget, ensures ongoing agriculture programs,” said North Battleford-based Daryl Fransoo, chair.

The Wheat Growers said the budget recognizes the need for continued record investment in agricultural research. “This is welcome news and highly thought of across the industry,” they said in a release.

The overall 6% increase in the agriculture budget is largely dedicated to farmer support under the Business Risk Management (BRM) programs. These programs ensure that the agriculture industry remains strong, even during perilous times.

“The Western Canadian Wheat Growers offers its thanks to the Saskatchewan government for its commitment and support to the agriculture industry, which has led the province and Canada through the current pandemic. Given the current commodity prices, the industry will continue to lead the economy,” said Jim Wickett, Secretary-Treasurer.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 19

Morgan Murray’s Saskatchewan-based Dirty Birds up for three more awards Submitted Morgan Murray’s acclaimed debut novel, Dirty Birds, continues to collect accolades.

It was recently announced the satirical novel is a finalist for a remarkable three Atlantic Book Awards, including the APMA Best Atlantic-Published Book Award, the Margaret and John Savage First Book Award for Fiction, and the Thomas Raddall Atlantic Fiction Award—one of the richest literary prizes in the country with $25,000 going to the winner.

Since its release this past August, Dirty Birds has received rave reviews, with the likes of Scotia Bank Giller Prize winner Will Ferguson comparing it to the work of Kurt Vonnegut, and winner of Canada Reads Lisa Moore calling it a “joyful extravaganza.”

Dirty Birds has also received a number of honours, including being named as a Hot Summer Read by The Globe & Mail, being picked for the CBC Books Reading List for both Fall and Winter 2020, being named to the Canada Reads 2021 Longlist, and a in March it was named a finalist for the prestigious international Foreword Indies Awards in the Humour category.

“I’m still quite dumbfounded by it all,” says Murray from his home near Mabou, NS. “The reception for Dirty Birds has so far exceeded any expectations I had while writing it. I was just hoping it would make my dad laugh,” he says.

Dirty Birds follows the misadventures of Milton Ontario—not to be confused with Milton, On-

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Morgan Murray’s acclaimed debut novel, Dirty Birds, is a finalist for a remarkable three Atlantic Book Awards. Photo from morganmurray.ca.

tario—and his pursuit of fame, fortune, love, and the meaning of life as he moves from his parents’ basement the fictional village of Bellybutton, Saskatchewan to vibrant and bohemian Montreal.

“Things don’t always go Milton’s way,” says Murray. “He’s not particularly talented, nor clever, nor motivated, so he sort of stumbles from one mishap and misadventure to the next, getting himself into all kinds of trouble.”

Murray, who now lives in Cape Breton with his wife, well-known cartoonist Kate Beaton, and their young daughter, grew up on his family’s farm in ru-

ral Alberta, but his mother’s side of the family hail from southern Saskatchewan, where Murray’s great-grandparents homesteaded near Riverhurst.

A celebration of all of the Atlantic Book Award finalists will take place during the 2021 Atlantic Book Festival and Awards, taking place online with virtual author events happening May 6 to 12 and a virtual Awards Gala on May 13. More information can be found at atlanticbookawards.ca.

For more information about Morgan Murray, Dirty Birds, and upcoming author events, visit morganmurray.ca.

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Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

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Farmers need mental health support, too

By Cloe Logan

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Canada’s National Observer

Warning: This article discusses depression, anxiety, PTSD, and self-harm.

Many things can spell the last straw for an exhausted farmer — a crop that doesn’t work out, a few too many days working in a row. For Kristen Penhall, it was a comment about the number of carrots in one of her vegetable boxes.

Penhall, a farmer in Langley, B.C., runs Naturally Good Vibes as primarily a one-person operation. She makes her living from Community Supported Agriculture shares, meaning she pre-sells produce boxes to people in her community. During her second season, she was dealing with a health issue that required multiple surgeries — a 10-month period that was equally hard on her mental health.

Yet she continued to work.

Someone, who she emphasizes wasn’t trying to be malicious with their feedback, said Penhall’s box didn’t have enough carrots, especially in comparison to ones from larger, older, family-run operations that they’d seen.

“I just remember thinking like, ‘Ooh, wow. Like I don’t think you understand that I am not able to com-

pete with a family farm ... that has been in the family for seven generations,’ and I was in my second year,” she said.

“I find that often ... It’s actually the general perspectives of the public that can add to mental health issues.”

Penhall says she has found ample support and connection in the farming community, but that accessible farming-specific resources for mental health still seem to be lacking.

She says everything that makes farming great, like the deep connection you feel to the land and the daily gamble of planting and harvesting, also makes it a unique challenge.

There are numbers to support the observations Penhall, who has experienced PTSD and OCD, makes about farmers and mental health. A study from the University of Guelph found that 35 per cent of farmers meet the classification for depression, 58 per cent of farmers meet the classification for anxiety and depression, 45 per cent of farmers have high stress levels, and 67 per cent of farmers are more susceptible than the general population to chronic stress, which can lead to burnout and associated health concerns.

Paul Wartman is trying to address that with

a new series on mental health through the National Farmers Union (NFU) called Collective Care. The month-long series will host workshops and Zoom chats for farmers and the greater community.

Wartman, a farmer himself in Nova Scotia, has a background in community facilitation. The workshops, he says, will aim to give space to discuss selfcare practices, challenges, and provide context on the varied experience of farmers.

“Our membership has specifically told us antiBlack racism is a mental health issue ... it’s beyond just individual action. It includes systemic policy that’s been put in place, it includes infrastructure, and larger than us pieces,” he said.

“It’s tying in the individual experience with mental health to the broader culture and systems.”

Wartman gives a nod to the youth in the NFU for inspiring the series — he says he sees a lot of awareness in younger farmers, especially those closer to urban centres. Wartman says stigma obviously still exists in cities, but that it can be especially prevalent in rural areas.

Top it all off with the pandemic, and Wartman says there are many nuanced challenges and

Kristen Penhall harvesting tomatillos at her Langley farm. Photo courtesy Jete of Urban Fig Photography. Jete Devisser

discussions that need to happen in the farming community. The timing of the workshop is important, he says. Spring can be an especially difficult time for the community — things start growing, life is especially busy.

“This is the time when people really started considering self-harm, and potentially taking their lives,” he said.

Penhall says at the end of the day, she feels grateful to be in the support-

ive farming community she has found. She hopes by continuing to be open about her own experience with mental health, others will be encouraged to do the same, and more accessible, fathomable supports will become available.

“I recently was asked by a doctor, ‘What do you do?’ and when I replied, ‘Farmer,’ he asked again ... in disbelief, and then replied, ‘Cute.’ I doubt he would have said that to a farmer who fit the stereo-

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type he had in his mind,” she said.

“Until we see that farmers are becoming a more diverse group of people, we won’t be able to truly see them and therefore give them the support they need.”

If you or someone you know is in crisis, there is help. Visit Crisis Services Canada online, or call the national suicide prevention helpline at 1-833-4564566 or Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 21

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Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223 In person/mail: 892 - 104th Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1M9

Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm

OBITUARIES

BROWN: Afe (Allen) Brown was born on September 15, 1926 in Fort Selkirk, Yukon to Afe and Leta Brown (nee Van Bibber).

He was the eldest of two sons, his brother, John, being one year younger. Because Leta was a part of the Selkirk First Nation, she was encouraged to send her boys to residential school. She refused, and instead, taught them at home herself. In the winter, she would load up the boys on their dogsled and make the trek to Whitehorse to get their grades’ curriculums. It was a two-day trip to get there, and they would stay overnight at a cabin at the halfway point. Allen gave his life to the Lord as a young man. He attended Bible college, even taking a few semesters in Saskatchewan, before completing his studies at the Western Pentecostal Bible College in North Vancouver in 1967. While there, he met Ethel Nicholls. Ethel’s parents were cooks at the Bible college, and often they invited the students to their home to visit and watch television, which was not allowed at the college! During one of those visits, Ethel’s mom asked her to bake something for the visiting students. Apparently, her excellent baking and good looks caught Allen’s eye! The two were married on August 27, 1966 in White Rock. Allen and Ethel moved to Surrey, and there, their first son, Joel was born on October 12, 1967. Shortly thereafter, they moved to Kamloops, and their second son, Paul, was born on May 5, 1969. Less than a year later, Allen took a pastoring job in Maymont, SK, and the family moved out to the prairies. In the mid-1970’s, the family moved to the Battlefords, where Allen pastored at the Foursquare Church. On April 6, 1977, their third son, Peter, was born. Allen had a love of carpentry, and in the late 1970’s, he decided to leave the ministry and venture out on his own. He always had an entrepreneurial spirit, having spent some of his earlier years as a door-to-door salesman selling everything from Fuller Brushes to Amway. Using that self-motivated side, he started his own carpentry business. Later, he worked in residential construction for Gordon Hellofs, where he eventually retired. Allen passed away on April 15, 2021, in the Battlefords Union Hospital, at the age of 94. He was predeceased by his father, Afe Brown; mother, Leta Israel; stepfather, Walter Israel; and brother, John Brown. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Ethel Brown (nee Nicholls); son, Joel (Tammy) Brown; son, Paul (Michelle) Brown; son, Peter (Jaime) Brown; granddaughters Amy, Ashley, and Brittany Brown; Shayla and Alysha Peters; Joelle and Ireland Brown; and greatgrandson, Nolan Peters; as well as many nieces and nephews, and a brother-in-law and sisters-in-law. Private Family Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, April 22, 2021 from ‘The Garden Chapel’ with Pastor Casey Sitter officiating.

Memorial donations are requested to The Gideons International In Canada, PO Box 3619, Guelph, ON N1H 7A2. To access the live streamed/recorded service and send condolences please visit https://www.facebook.com/eternalmemoriesfuneralservice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

Leier, Elizabeth L. (Betty Lou) May 2, 1949 – April 2, 2021

STEWART, Russell Atton December 17, 1921 - April 10, 2021 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Russell Stewart at Harwood Manor, North Battleford with his family by his side. He was 99 years of age. Russell was born at home in Gallivan, Sask to Frank and Annie (nee Atton) Stewart on December 17, 1921. The first two children, unfortunately his younger brother Lawrence succumbed to whooping cough at 2 months old. He lived most of his young life on the farm in Gallivan and attended Gallivan School until his last two years of school where he attended Cutknife High School, 8 miles by horseback every day. He joined the Air Force in 1942 and was stationed in various parts of Canada. He was trained as a flight engineer and joined the crew of Amphibian Canso as a flight sergeant. The second flight engineer on his place was Arnold Giles from Prince Albert, and they remained family friends until Arnold passed. They patrolled the West Coast from Alaska to the mid -USA. Many flights were ten hours in the air. A part of Russell’s life that he was very proud of and always cherished.

He married his high school sweetheart Dorothy Hardy in Gallivan United Church on October 16, 1944. It was a “Wartime Wedding” as Russell returned to camp 3 days after. Upon discharge in 1946, he followed in his father’s footsteps and spent the next 8 years farming in Gallivan district with his father until he purchased his own homestead at Riding Hill. Here they raised a family of 3 sons - Larry Gordon, 1947, Glenn Russell, 1949 and Kenneth Neil, 1954. Russell will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his 3 sons and their families: Larry (Suzanne) and children Jeff, Shelene, Erin and their families; Glenn (Donna) and children Shantel, Bradley, Brian and their families and Kenneth (Audrey) and children Brent, Jennifer, Kimberly and their families. He leaves behind numerous extended family and friends, too numerous to name. Russell was predeceased by his parents, Annie and Frank Stewart, an infant brother, Lawrence, his wife Dorothy and Daughter-in-law Joan Stewart. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Harwood Manor in North Battleford for the amazing care he received over the past few months. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cutknife United Church or to the Cutknife Legion, care of Kenneth Stewart, Box 277, Cutknife, Sask. A graveside memorial service will be held for Russell at the beautiful setting of Rockhaven Family Cemetery on Saturday, May 22, 2021 at 2:00 pm. It will be outdoors and social distancing will be the case. __________________________________________________

We are greatly saddened to advise the passing of Betty Lou on Friday April 2, 2021.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Eva (O’Hara) Nieman, Henry Nieman and her sister, Linda Smith. She is survived by her brother Michael (Gwen) Smith of Nanaimo, BC, niece Siobhan of Gibsons, BC, her son Kenton (Tanya), grandchildren Elizabeth, Cadence and Anabelle of Ottawa, ON and son Robin of Vancouver, BC as well as numerous cousins. Betty Lou was born in Regina in 1949 and spent most of her early years in Watson and Humboldt. She graduated from Humboldt Collegiate Institute in 1967 and moved with her family to Saskatoon in 1968. She attended the University of Saskatoon where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. After marrying, Betty Lou spent a number of years raising a family and then returned to the University of Saskatoon, obtaining her R.N. degree. She moved to North Battleford and spent 15 years attached to the North Battleford Psychiatric hospital. She retired from nursing in her early sixties. There will not be a funeral and in lieu of flowers a donation to the Parkinson’s Society of Saskatchewan - 2103 Airport Dr, Saskatoon SK S7L 6W2, would be appreciated. Condolences for the family may be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca.

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service (306) 446-4200.

Elsie Doreen (Lofts) Boulton It is with sorrow and great love that we mention the passing of our hero in the early hours of April 12th, 2021, in North Battleford. Elsie was born on August 8th, 1930 in Turtleford, Saskatchewan. She was raised in Glaslyn and then moved to the Prongua area when she married her love, Erwin. Her spirit continues with her children: Carol, Ben (Tracey) and Kathy (Antony); her beloved grandchildren, Brittany, Bailey, Alex and Liam; sisters Helen and Irene; her nieces and nephews that she loved as her own and her beloved friends. She was predeceased by her husband Erwin; parents Lillian and Bill Lofts Sr; in-laws Pearl and Alec Boulton; brother Bill Jr, sisters Myrtle and Joyce. Due to Covid, services and interment will be announced at a later date. The family requests that memorial donations with be made to a charity of the donor’s choice and do it with a song in your heart. Condolences can be sent to www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements are entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

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

UMPHERVILLE: Joan Yvonne Umpherville (nee) Nelson. June 16, 1933 March 12, 2021. With heavy hearts the family of Joan announce her passing in North Battleford, SK. Funeral service was held on Friday March 19, 2021 at 2:00 pm. at Living Faith Chapel, North Battleford.

Interment took place at Maymont Cemetery, Maymont, SK. Joan will be lovingly remembered by her 6 children, Joanne Broomfield, Carol (Brian) Simon, Bev (Don) Toovey, Helmer (Kim) Umpherville, Darcy (Karen) Umpherville and Brad (Louise) Umpherville. 19 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; 15 greatgreat grandchildren; and numerous cousins and special lifelong friends. Joan was predeceased by her husband; Hilmer Umpherville; Garmen & Clara Nelson; Thelma & Jim Goddins; Edna & Henry Larson; Pearl & Albert Paget; Gordon Nelson; Grandsons; Ian Toovey; Blaine Simon; Brian Hilliard & Chris Byers; Great-great granddaughter Taylor Broomfield. __________________________________________________

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

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. 51 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details.

To book Classified Advertising call

306-445-7261

FOR SALE - MISC

LAND FOR SALE

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

WANTED Missing since before Christmas. A 8 1/2 by 5 1/2 green book of poems by Charlotte Myrtle Walde of Neilburg. If found please call 306-937-2443.

OBITUARIES SOUTHGATE: In Loving Memory of Doreen Southgate Sept. 4, 1927 - April 3, 2021.

Doreen will be lovingly remembered by her children: Daryl (Lauren), Brian (Debra), Edgar (Colleen), Donna (Doug) and Beverly (Bryce); her 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren; siblings Florence, Myrtle, Evelyn, Bruce and many friends, both new and lifelong. Into the arms of her heavenly father, Doreen joins her husband, Allan; her parents: William and Dora; her parents-in-law: John and Mary; siblings: Albert, Ethel, Joyce; brothers-in-law: Garnet, Norman, Stanley and sister-in-law, Emma. Graveside Service was held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Garden of Devotion - Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford, SK., with Pastor Keith Klippenstein. Eulogy was given

by Donna Van Dijk & Debra Southgate. Music: The Old Rugged Cross - Robert MacKay; In the Garden - Chandra Stromberg; How Great Thou Art - Daniel O’Donnell; You Raise Me Up Josh Groban; Open Up The Pearly Gates - Daniel O’Donnell.

Pallbearers were All of Doreen’s grandchildren and great grandchildren: Evelyn (Dustin)- Kylee; Zane (Lani)- Scott; Nancy (Chum); Anita (Tyson)- Trenton, Timothy; Alana (Jesse)- Malia; Gregory; Chandra (Lael)- Janelle, Joshua, Noah, Levi, Emily; Shane (Sheena)- Mason, Gideon, September; Caleb; Blake. “I am at peace, my soul’s at rest, there is no need for tears, for with your love I was so blessed for all those many years”.

Memorials are requested to Harwood Manor - Recreation Department, 2691 Clements Dr, North Battleford, SK S9A 1H9 or Canadian Diabetes Association, PO Box 26331 STN BRM B, Toronto, ON M7Y 4R1. Condolences can be sent to www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements were entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

Card of Thanks Thank you to the staff at Harwood Manor for the excellent care and to Bob MacKay & staff at Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium for their compassion and guidance through this difficult time. We are forever grateful.

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

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FEED & SEED

I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

For Sale: Three Angus heifers.

Phone 306-892-2119.

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING?

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Canadian Prairie Pickers are once again touring the area!

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets.

Also Buying Gold Jewelry

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Bonded since 1967

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

PAYING HIGHEST PRICES To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit call

Kellie at 1-778-257-8647 ANNOUNCEMENTS

FIRE BAN

Effec�ve Immediately the R.M. of Douglas No. 436 have imposed a fire ban.

MEETINGS

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING BGC Battlefords will be holding their AGM on Tuesday, May 18th - 6:30 p.m.

Due to COVID-19, this years AGM will again be held virtually via Zoom.

To receive a Zoom Meeting invite, contact Executive Director, Nicole Combres,

by Monday, May 3rd.

For more information, call 306-445-0002

The Ban will be in effect un�l further no�ce.

Dated at Speers, Saskatchewan, this 14th day of April, 2021.

Authorized by: R.M. of Douglas No. 436 Fire Ban Commi�ee

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

Hi I’m Penny!

IN MEMORIAM

FUNERAL SERVICES

In Loving Memory of Janet M. Bear March 22, 1965 - April 12, 2020 If roses grow in Heaven Lord, please pick a bunch for me.

Place them in my Mother's arms and tell her they're from me.

Tell her I love and miss her, and when she turns to smile, Place a kiss, upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.

Because remembering her is easy, I do it everyday, but there's an ache within my heart that will never go away

Eternal Memories

Love always, Ron, kids, and Grandkids

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Corrine Gaye Chatelaine November 7 1971

Sharon Gail Desmeules August 28 1966

APRIL 23 2020

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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!

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battlefordshumanesociety.com NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

ASSESSMENT ROLL RESORT VILLAGE OF AQUADEO Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Resort Village of Aquadeo for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. the following days: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday’s, April 21 to June 23, 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 his/her assessment is required to file his/her notice of appeal in writing, along with a cheque to: The Assessor, Box 501, Cochin, SK S0M 0L0 by 5:00 p.m., June 23, 2021 Dated this 22nd day of April, 2021.

Betty Stephan Assessor

Regional News-Optimist FEED & SEED 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.

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.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Late model winch trucks and trailers; dump trucks and pups. Hauling heavy equipment, gravel, and camp shacks.

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES General Manager Twin Rivers Curling Club Inc. in North Battleford, SK operates one of Canada's newest multi-purpose curling facilities and is looking for a dynamic leader. Guided by the Board of Directors, the Manager provides vision, leadership, and direction to the Twin Rivers Curling Club. The Manager has overall management responsibility for operations, HR, policy development & implementation, financial management, building rentals, and marketing and promotions. The Manager reports to the Board of Directors and has supervisory responsibilities for the janitorial staff, league directors, and youth curling supervisors.

Education & Experience: Degree/Diploma in Business, Marketing or Recreation or combination of education and experience Leadership experience in memberfocused organizations and/or volunteer associations Previous responsibilities for marketing and communications/ public relations Proven track record of establishing effective operating procedures and processes.

Proven success in achieving bottom -line results.

Attributes: People person with the ability to relate to members, business community, curling associations.

Shows initiative, task-oriented, entrepreneurial mindset.

Aptitude to solicit and generate sponsorship from the Battlefords and surrounding area.

Ability to challenge tradition, identify problem areas, and implement solutions.

Ideally a curling "enthusiast", but as a minimum be familiar with the sport of curling Specific Accountabilities: Leadership Financial Management Facility Management Member Relations & Promotions Technology & Social Media Salary range is commensurate with education and experience.

Email resume and cover letter by April 30, 2021, to: Al Gabert, President TRCC Email: gaberta64@gmail.com We thank all applicants for their interest in the position, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

306-441-6993 www.battlefordscurling.com

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

306-445-7261

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

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

1A TRUCK DRIVERS REQUIRED:

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

CALL ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 23

PUBLIC NOTICE EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY The Rural Municipality of Round Hill No. 467 has issued a Municipal Fire Ban No Fires Permitted

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Maymont Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Maymont for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, April 22, 2021 to June 22, 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 (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY), accompanied by a $400.00 fee for each assessment being appealed, to: Secretary of the Board of Revision, c/o Assessor at the Village of Maymont, Box 160, Maymont, Sask S0M1T0, by the 22nd day of June 2021.

Dated this 22nd day of April, 2021.

Denise Bernier, Assessor

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.

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 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.

Robin Bloski, BA (Hons) Municipal Planner/Development Officer April 12, 2021

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

Application for Re: Liquor Permit

(Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997) Notice is hereby given that 101120070 saskatchewan Ltd. has applied to the Liquor and Gaming Authority for a Restaurant & Tavern with Off-Sale Permit to sell alcohol in premises known as Queen’s Hotel at 101-102 23rd Street, Battleford of which the following is a correct legal description: 101-102, P. O. Box 2489 23rd Street, Saskatchewan Battleford Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with the SLGA (Sask Liquor & Gaming Authority) not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this Notice.

Every person filing a written objection with the SLGA shall state their name, address and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objections. Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds and be legible. Each signatory to the petition, and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number.

Frivolous, vexatious, or competition-based objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing.

Write to:

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority P.O. Box 5054 Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 3M3

Dated at North Battleford, Saskatchewan, this 22nd day of April, 2021.

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA No. 468 PUBLIC NOTICE OF DISCRETIONARY USE DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 2.4 of the RM of Meota No. 468 Zoning Bylaw the municipality has received an application for a discretionary use development permit application. The application includes the placement of a dock and boat lift on PR 1, Plan 79B03720 – in Summerfield Beach. This is currently permitted as a discretionary use in the Lakeshore Residential 1 District – Section 9.2.1 (c) of Bylaw 02/2011 known as the Zoning Bylaw.

Council will consider this application at the regular scheduled Council meeting on May 5, 2021 at 2:00pm in the RM of Meota office.

Please contact the RM office if you wish to attend via teleconference. If you wish to comment on these proposals, please do so in writing prior to May 30, 2021 to the RM of Meota No. 468, Box 80, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. For additional information please contact (306) 397-1000 or at robin@northboundplanning.ca.

Robin Bloski, BA (Hons) Municipal Planner/Development Officer April 19, 2021 NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL Village of Krydor Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Krydor for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection.

Because of the COVID-19 virus, our office is closed to protect the ratepayers and municipal staff. Therefore inspections will be by appointment only. Please email your request to village.krydor@gmail.com or call 306-280-6626.

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 accompanied by a $20.00 fee to: The Assessor, Village of Krydor, Box 12, Krydor, Saskatchewan S0J 1K0 by the 22nd day of June, 2021.

Dated this 22nd day of April, 2021.

Wendy Tanchak Assessor

Page 24 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

BUSINESS SERVICES

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF GLENSIDE NO. 377 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.

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Joanne Fullerton Returning Officer

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PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nomination of candidates for the office of:

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1

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.

REASON FOR

THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD

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RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468 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

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

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

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

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LAND FOR SALE

TAX ENFORCEMENT 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.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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

CHRISTY EATON Name of Assessed Owner 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) 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.

THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD Per: Steven Brown, Administrator BURNIA COLWELL- WESTMAN Name of Assessed Owner LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS: Lot 8 Blk/Par 29 Plan No. B2991 Extension 0 Title Number: 130486204

CAREER TRAINING

Interested in working in rural government?

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION CERTIFICATE

• 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

Learn more. uregina.ca/cce

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 25

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF ROUND HILL NO. 467 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.

R.M. of Parkdale No. 498

Employment Opportunity The Rural Municipality of Parkdale No. 498 is presently accepting applications for the position of Seasonal Mower Operator. The position is for full-time seasonal employment commencing in May, 2021 or as negotiated.

• Job duties include but are not limited to the operation of a mower for the maintenance of ditches, as required by conditions and directed by the Council, rock-picking, sign installation and other duties as assigned.

• Regular service and maintenance of equipment as qualified and required.

• Knowledge of mower operation and maintenance would be an asset.

• A valid class 5 license is required.

• Applicants must have the ability to manage and organize daily duties and work with minimal supervision as required.

• Application deadline: May 12, 2021 Interested applicants can submit a resume stating experience, qualifications, and two references to: Box 310 Glaslyn, SK S0M 0Y0 rm498@sasktel.net Fax: 306-342-4442 Salary will be based on experience and qualifications.

The R.M. of Parkdale thanks all applicants for their interest in the position, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

SALES CONSULTANT Immediate Opening WANTED • 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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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

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Hafford Co-op Career Opportunities Team Member/Driver at our Agro Center in Hafford What you’ll do: Responsible to carry out deliveries in a safe, timely, and efficient manner while providing exceptional customers service to all Co-op employees and customers.

• Complete daily Truck/Trailer Inspections & maintenance. • Operate equipment in a safe and lawful manner.

• Transport and handle Dangerous Goods, Feed Products & Ag Equipment • Maintain a delivery schedule and ensure timely deliver of products.

• Deliver products according to the customer’s desire, while ensuring a high level of safety.

• Assist with Instore & Shop Duties when not on the Delivery Unit. • Other Duties as assigned.

Who you are: You are looking a career in Customer Service and: • You have Grade 12 Diploma. • You have a 3A or 1A License.

• Experience in handling Dangerous Goods.

• Experience in loading/unloading, handling and Transport of Materials.

• You’re honest and trustworthy, are results-oriented and strive to be the best in what you do.

• You believe in building relationships and collaborating to deliver sol that matter most, and you recognize the that different perspectives bring to meet shared objectives.

Training can be made available for the right Candidate.

Team Member/Clerk at our Agro Center in Hafford What you’ll do: Responsible to provide information, and exceptional customer service to all Co-op employees and customers.

• Serving Customers at the Gas Bar and Instore.

• Processing customer orders and purchases.

• Processing Account Receivables/Payables.

• Placing and receiving product orders.

• Entering and maintaining product inventory.

• Maintaining the sales floor and back stock area.

• Performing general housekeeping duties. • Other duties as assigned.

Who you are: You are looking a career in Customer Service and: • You have Grade 12 Diploma • Experience in retail operations.

• Experience in data entry or accounting • You’re honest and trustworthy, are results-oriented and strive to be the best in what you do.

• You believe in building relationships and collaborating to deliver sol that matter most, and you recognize the that different perspectives bring to meet shared objectives.

Training can be made available for the right Candidate.

Our Team Members receive competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package and an employer-contributed pension plan. We encourage our Team Members to take advantage of learning opportunities, to grow and develop and to foster a culture of teamwork and innovation.

Please note that safety-sensitive positions will require pre-employment alcohol and substance testing.

Apply instore by May 31st, 2021 or contact us at haffordcoop@littleloon.ca for more information.

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected to continue in the recruitment process will be contacted.

KANAWEYIMIK CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES INC.

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 • Experience providing individual,suffering 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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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 27

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

is looking for a

SEASONAL GRADER OPERATOR Salary negotiable based upon experience.

Preference will be given to those with 5 years of grader operating experience.

Please state qualifications, experience, and references in application.

Applications can be emailed to rm406@sasktel.net If you require anything further information, please do not hesitate to contact the office at

(306) 389-2112

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ONLINE www.newsoptimist.ca

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

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

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) 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 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

Hwy 4 North North Battleford, SK

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

306-445-6640 Classified advertising 306-445-7261

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

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

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

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NOTICE OF POLL Public Notice is hereby given that a poll has been granted for the election of : Councillor: RESORT VILLAGE OF KIVIMAAMOONLIGHT BAY And that Voting will take place on Saturday the 22nd day of May, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the polling places listed below, and that I will be at the Resort Village Fire Hall on the 22nd day of May, 2021, at the hour of 10:00 p.m. to declare the result of the election.

Polling Place: Resort Village Fire Hall Address: Kykkanen Drive Resort Village of Kivimaa-Moonlight Bay Dated at the Resort Village of Kivimaa-Moonlight Bay this 22nd day of April, 2021.

Source: News Media Canada

Jackie Helgeton, Returning Officer

• Door‐to‐door • Carrier service • Total coverage • Personalize your coverage area

306‐445‐7261 FOR THE BEST COVERAGE IN THE COMMUNITY CALL NOW! T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

R.M. of Mayfield No. 406

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Golf course is gearing up for a busy season

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

No doubt the hole in the road into Lakeview was repaired before the paper came out, so was acted upon quickly. Good work!

Bridge was played in the Pioneer Hall three times before being closed down again. People just need and want to get back to living normal lives again. April 8, three tables were in play with top scores going to Mary Phelps and Gerry Craig. Second were Catriona Winterhalt and Donna Scherman. April 13, found four tables in play and top scores, in order, were: Mary Phelps and Gerry Craig, Anna Marie Waldbillig and Vern Iverson and Anne Crozier and Margaret Dyck. April 15 evening had three tables again and top scores went to David Sharpe and Vern Iverson.

Second were Margaret Dyck and Dave Creegan.

The local golf course is busy getting ready for another season and, depending on the weather, will open as soon as everything is ready..

Speaking with one of the Legion members from North Battleford made me realize that while the majority of us take for granted what our veterans did for us, in the past, some Legion members are still

M

eota News

working to see they are remembered. They have been visiting graveyards to see if veterans’ graves are marked to indicate their service. Not many are, so they are trying to figure out how this can be corrected.

A replica of a pioneer log cabin, with all the original furnishings, has been brought in from Mildred to the Spiritwood Museum grounds. It was built and owned by the Zarudski family. When they built it they were planning to use it as a summer kitchen, but that didn’t happen, so it was fitting that it be relocated into Spiritwood. It was moved March 13 and set onto the foundation March 15. It will be wonderful to walk into this building and pretend it was our family’s pioneer home. Our young people won’t believe one could survive in such limited space with limited supplies. I can’t wait to see it, as I know it will be fancier than the log house I first lived in after getting married.

The Rabbit Lake outdoor market will open on

May long weekend, May 22, until September long weekend, from 9 a.m. to noon, but some may extend hours if the market is busy..

The one-year anniversary of the loss of 22 people in Nova Scotia was marked April 18, in Truro, N.S. It was a non-denominational service called “Nova Scotia Remembers” with contributions by many folks. Heather Rankin sang “Never Alone,” representing their family.

Johnny Reed wrote a song “People Like You,” which was played. Proceeds from it went to the Red Cross.

They had a rock for each victim, with their name on it, representing their soul. A vase of flowers was placed for each one by a family member. They were the only people in the United Church besides the speakers.

With no guide for our TV programming, I felt lucky to catch this service.

I was in Truro to watch Scottish dancing many years ago, so felt some connection to the scene.

It was a touching service, for sure, meaning to bring some closure for everyone affected by the tragedy.

New activities are being organized by the refurbished sailing club with plans for more action, this summer. They have a great facility that is not being

used as it should be. The community is looking forward to that.

The following information has been provided by the new organization.

The Battlefords Sailing Club has officially adopted a new name and a fresh new direction as Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail.

Building on a rich history as a sailing club, but being closed last year due to COVID-19, many members began to recognize that perhaps an opportunity was being missed. It is not just a sailing club – the club is so much more than sailing.

Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail is one of the nicest facilities for lakefront activity in the province.

Being located right on Jackfish Lake makes the clubhouse attractive and ideal for taking out kayaks, paddleboards and canoes.

The club has some equipment that can be borrowed on a first-come, firstserved basis. If you have your own equipment, it is a great place to launch alone or with friends. It’s also a wonderful facility for a relaxing, heating up the barbecue on the deck or a fun family gathering on the beach. The clubhouse has heat, running water and full kitchen and bathroom facilities, as well as a large space for indoor gatherings

The Battlefords Sailing Club has officially adopted a new name and a fresh new direction as Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail. Photo submitted

and ample parking space.

This year’s annual general meeting was April 11 via Zoom. A full slate of board positions has been filled. Many experienced board members stayed on and numerous volunteers were willing to be involved as board and committee members. Committees include membership, facilities, rentals, social committee, sailing (possibly kayaking) school and fundraising. If this sounds like a lot of work, you’d be surprised. It’s actually a lot of fun and the payback is spending time with people who love being on the water as much as you do.

Member benefits are

significant, allowing use of the facility and club equipment, as well as access to Saskatchewan Sailing Club Association insurance. Contact Noreen Barclay in North Battleford by phone or text at 306-4816420 or Trudy Janssens in Meota at 306-374-0843 and Trudyjanssens121@ gmail.com.

The 2020 COVID experience has made many people realize how important it is to spend time with family and friends locally.

Spending time outdoors at the lake, on the water, is a perfect way to combat some of the anxiety that has resulted from the lockdowns that many have faced this past year. It’s a known fact that kayak sales are way up, and many families are looking forward to spending time in Meota this summer. Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail will do our utmost to follow all provincial guidelines to ensure everyone can be healthy and safe while using the facility in Meota.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! C.O.P.P.

THE BATTLEFORDS CITIZENS ON PATROL PHONE 446-1720 for more information

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 29

Where have all the shrinking violets gone?

Ed, my old neighbour in Saskatchewan, called yesterday to wish me a happy birthday. “At your age, you should celebrate with fireworks and with the musical tribute of a socially distanced Scottish pipe band,” my old neighbour said, mocking my liking for bagpipe music. He also said that because I am so old, it’s no time for me to be a shrinking violet about my age but that I should boldly broadcast it to the world. I assured Ed the world already has too much loud and personal posturing for attention.

I asked Ed, “Where have all the shrinking violets gone? Our nightly news is filled with

N

eighbourly Advice

According to Ed

By Raymond Maher

www.accordingtoed.com

raymaher085@gmail.com endless folks complaining and protesting. It seems there are few, if any, shy, modest folks around anymore. Maybe the folks who do not like to attract attention to themselves have always been few and far between. There are too many hindsight answers on what was done. There

is too much self-focused broadcasting about how things need to be done instead. Many claim they know best and things would be better if they were in charge.”

Ed challenged me, saying people have a right to speak out and criticize as they see fit. He believes I want

people to be quiet, like shrinking violets, instead of screeching like a bagpipe. I do agree with Ed that some people who give their two cents, give what is worth a nickel or more. Everyone has worthwhile knowledge to share, but too often, personal knowledge puffs people up in pride and arrogance and is not held in tension with the love of others.

Too often, knowledge divides because knowledge is never all there is to know.

Knowledge is meant to humble us into knowing we need to learn more.

True knowledge is built upon our learning from and with others before

God. Only God knows all, but He doesn’t give us all answers. He gives the fullness of unconditional love that is patient and merciful for all sinners, championed on Earth in the modest and humble life and death of Jesus, His Son. 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 says, “We know that we all possess knowledge.

Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know.”

It is time for us to be still and know that we have God, who is our refuge and strength. It is not easy to get people to stop talking and be still

and allow God to be God. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the Earth.”

Perhaps we protest and talk so loudly because we feel out of control in that things appear to be going in the wrong direction.

Instead of trusting in God, we try to find some refuge or strength in ourselves or others.

Trusting God means we may not have the answers we want, but we do have God’s unconditional love now and in heaven to come.

God is our refuge and strength so that we can be still and peacefully listen to Him.

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 30 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

WHO DOES IT? Professional Directory

AGRICULTURE PARTS

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

Bob Frolek's

AGRA PARTS PLUS

Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance

WRECKING

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

306-445-6769

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

ALL NATURAL GRANOLA

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HANDCRAFTED, LOCAL & ALL NATURAL GRANOLA

Restaurant & Bar Logo by

Kevin Ryhorchuk

306-441-8727 FOOD SERVICES

blend

Owner

www.yanishealthykitchen.com & Facebook

yanishealthkitchen

CERTIFIED APPRAISER

306.937.0000

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

Battleford, SK

Established in 1996 Complete Building Renovations Brad Pearson

Owner co-jack@sasktel.net

Box 5 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

Cell: 306-824-0184 Home: 306-342-2122

CONTRACTOR ROOFERS

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

SALES CONSULTANT

Bruce at

Robin Petersen

• New Construction • Renovations

Partner & Senior Appraiser

FREE Estimates & Senior Discounts

Owner/General Manager

Derrick Shynkaruk

AACI, P.App, BComm (Dist.)

Co-Jack Construction

Patterson roofing

bruce@battlefordfurniture.com

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Pamela Connor

CONSTRUCTION

New, re-roofing & roof repair

306-937-7474

General Contractor

pamela@dynamicappraisals.ca 306-446-1222

ROOFING CONTRACTOR Todd Patterson Owner/Operator

Call

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

1602 100th Street North Battleford

DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Restaurant & Bar

Yanitsa Borisova

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB

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

- Guaranteed Workmanship -

See our features online on

Find us on Instagram

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SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Joleen at

306-937-7474 joleen@battlefordfurniture.com

djshynkaruk@gmail.com

INVESTMENT & INSURANCE

Call Michael for your INVESTMENT & INSURANCE NEEDS

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Maureen at

306-937-7474 maureen@battlefordfurniture.com 111 1291 102 Street, North Battleford

306.317.6740

Michael.George@ig.ca *License Sponsored by The Canada Life Assurance Company

Michael George

Real Estate Agent

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Shannon at

“Quality that doesn’t cost, it pays”

306-937-7474

Dion BelRose 306-937-2083

shannon@battlefordfurniture.com

Serving Battlefords & Area…Locally Owned & Operated

Insurance Claims Welcome

*Take advantage of the Sask Home Renovation Credit*

FREE ESTIMATES

SENIOR DISCOUNT AVAILABLE

Licensed/Insured WCB A263327 CUSTOM FLOATING

To Book FIND OUT HOW TO REACH Your Space Now Over 26,000 readers plus 99,152 PRESCRIPTION APPLICATION unique visitors 45’ BELT online CONVEYER

FOR ONLY $39/week 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

Call

306.445.7261 ask for Candace

SALVAGE

LAVIGNE

SALVAGE

FULLY INSURED

• Scrap Cleanup • Demolition • Scrap Metal Removal • Building Removal • Skid Steer Service • Excavator Service (with magnet) Trevor Lavigne • (306) 291-6414 Nathan Lavigne • (306) 370-0742 Serving Saskatchewan & Alberta

NO JOB TOO SMALL, NO JOB TOO BIG

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 31

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

Professional Directory

Tire ServiceS

306.937.TIRE or 937-8473

TREE SERVICES

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

TREE SERVICES

Big Mike's Contracting

motiontire@sasktel.net

192 4th Ave. West Industrial Park, Battleford, SK S0M 0E0

1001 - 113 Street, North Battleford, SK 60’ BOOM TRUCK

*Truck Accessories *After Market Rims *LED Lights *Passenger Truck, Semi Tires & Ag Tires *Bumpers *Levelling Kits, etc. *FUEL MAYHEM MOTO METAL RIMS

PLUS

306•386•7259 306.386.7259

Call the Certified Professionals Today

TREE SERVICES

Raymond Oleshko Tree Services

I CM TREE SERVICE +

• Tree Removal

• Trimming & Pruning • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured

PHONE 306-481-4465

Five Star Safety Rated

Excellence • Ticketed Tree Climbers • Tree Trimming • Tree Removal CERTIFIED ARBORISTS • Stump Grinding

Owner: Mike Huber

• Yard Clean Up • Expert Tree Removal • 17 Years Experience • Fully Insured • Free Estimates • 60 Foot Bucket Truck • NOW OFFERING Stump Grinding

306-441-7570

FULLY INSURED

(Liability Insurance)

Fire bans in place: grassfire risk high

By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

We are all tired. However, there is no time like the present to get your vaccine when eligible, adhere to necessary pandemic protocols and enjoy the great outdoors when you can. Ultimately, it is up to all of us to continue to do what we can, where we can, when we can in order to stop the spread.

Several area RMs have initiated fire bans so as the saying goes “don’t be flicking idiot,” as cigarettes tossed out windows are a cause of grassfires. Until things green up or we get some moisture, dried debris from last fall is com-

U

nity News

bustible and it takes a concerted effort on all of our parts to prevent fires.

Bat workshops are complete and enthusiasm has expanded for building bat houses to return the large colony of bats that were enjoying their stay at the Unity arena. Melanie Elliott, bat biologist, has provided great information on the value of these creatures in our community. It is predicted that sometime this May, Elliot will return

Mayor Sharon Del Frari holds Batrick, one of the educational bats brought by bat biologist, Melanie Elliott, who helped educate town staff on these creatures before their return to the community in May. Photo submitted

when the bats do for their release. Arena staff will keep a vigilant eye out so they don’t find a way back into the rink Sask Waste Reduction Council now has a great database on their website wherein you can enter your community’s name and what you are hoping to recycle and this website will direct you to the nearest location for this purpose.

With today being Earth Day, we need to be even more mindful of these options to help save our Earth for ourselves and generations to come.

Unity is fortunate to have multiple recycling options. For instance, in addition to recycling bottles, cans and milk containers, Sarcan accepts household batteries, paint, electronics and even the caps off your beverage containers. There is a gent one block from the rink who accepts multiple items for repurposing or reselling and has a dropoff bin outside his house as well as posters around town describing what he accepts.

Check the Loraas website for a list of what is acceptable in blue bins.

Delta Co-op food store has a recycle bin for plastic grocery bags, and Unity Community Resource Centre has a number of items they take, but they can’t just be dropped off.

You will need to check with them for a specified drop-off time as well as what is accepted.

If all else fails, there is always the free-cycle option wherein you can promote free items at a designated location for pickup as you never know what

people will be looking for.

Parkview Place staff are keeping their residents happy, active and engaged.

The nicer weather has allowed them a little more freedom as they can enjoy their beautiful park and deck space and will soon be getting their garden ready for spring planting.

Vaccinations continue in the community and it was nice to see Prairie Branches folks getting looked after. April 12 it was announced employees in any grocery store with a pharmacy attached will be able to get vaccinated by their local pharmacist.

Vaccinations will be our way out of this pandemic, in addition to continued health measures to help protect us, our families and our communities.

Unity Composite High School is holding a virtual career fair April 28 and students will also have an opportunity to select classes for next school year.

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

Above and below, Unity photographer, Nick Senseshen, shared these pictures taken during a tour across Canada by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip that stopped in Unity July 21, 1959. Her majesty and the prince arrived by train and paraded down Main Street waving to hundreds of adoring fans and subjects. Prince Phillip died April 9 at age 99. Photos courtesy of Nick Seneshen

Page 32 - The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021

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BUY MORE, SAVE MORE SALE ENDS–MAY 26, 2021

See in-store sales associate for instant savings details and list of available qualifying models.

192-24th Street West, Battleford www.battlefordfurniture.com

Phone 306-937-7474 Fax 306-937-7676 mail@battlefordfurniture.com