Regional News-Optimist February 15, 2024

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Baseball museum saved from post-COVID threat

Nature is Awesome

Finances rejuvenated

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Saskatchewan residents stepped up their game recently, helping to save the province’s only Baseball Museum and Hall of Fame as financial struggles loomed in 2024.

Jane Shury, the museum’s CEO, told SASKTODAY.ca at an open house on Feb. 8 that it was the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic causing donations and membership renewals to decline.

“COVID-19 came along, and as it hit everybody else, it hit us very hard. Because a lot of our members and people that came here to visit and what have you didn’t happen.

That was a real downfall,” she said.

“And it’s been a real climb to get back up to where we were, so we de-

cided we would have a membership drive,” Shury added.

Following that call for donations and memberships, Shury said that the museum is now barrelling full steam ahead to their annual induction ceremony in August, with the deadline for applications closing on March 15.

“We have been overwhelmed with the response, first of all from our members who are [from] across the province, as well as a lot of new people who heard about it ... and they’ve come through.”

“It’s heartwarming. It’s been very, very successful.”

Some of the success, Shury says, was due to Saskatchewan’s long history with baseball, going back as far as the late 1870s.

The museum has been part of the Battlefords

The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

since 1983. Located in Battleford, the museum has been in operation since 1983 and has memorabilia including uniforms, photographs, baseball bats, baseballs, equipment, trophies and more.

“The idea of this place was to be able to show this memorabilia and that’s all collected a lot of it from those people that have been inducted whether it be an individual, or a team, or a member of the community,” Shury said.

The museum has inducted 570 individuals, 44 teams, 31 communities and 22 families in the last 38 inductions.

And now, with a longer list of members, Shury hopes people continue to pay their membership each year which is $25 for a year, or $200 for a lifetime.

“The [museum is the] only organization with the history of baseball being researched very thoroughly, written and recorded. That is something that was something very important in the settling and development of Saskatchewan,” she said.

“It’s very important, we cannot let all that work that was done [be left] ... we just have to keep moving forward.

With files from Sherri Solomko

This porcupine strolls on Finlayson Island. Porcupines forage and help endangered bulbs to grow, which maintains biodiversity. Design all around! | Photo and text by Jim McLane

N.B. behind planned Crime Severity Index conference

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

A major conference has been organized for the end of the month on the Crime Severity Index.

The conference is being held Feb. 28 and 29 in Saskatoon. The City of North Battleford is spearheading the conference and has invited a number of other communities that have ranked high on the Crime Severity Index to it as well.

“We’ve been plan-

ning it now for months,” Mayor David Gillan told city council at their meeting Monday night. He said it was conceived from the city of North Battleford to bring together communities that are high on the Crime Severity Index on an annual basis, with Saskatoon chosen as a convenient location.

The goal is to better understand the CSI and its limitations, and also address the damage due to negative publicity caused

by the annual release of the CSI numbers each year.

A number of guests have been invited including the RCMP, as well as academics who Gillan said could “come in to talk about the limitations of the Crime Severity Index, and of course the issues that come from the ranking of communities in the CSI index.”

Gillan also said that Stats Canada will be at the conference as well, adding Continued on Page 5

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Page 2 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Family wants justice

Who holds answers in Bearsears’ homicide?

By Lisa Joy

SASKTODAY.ca

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North Battleford SK

YOUTH DRAWING

Don Ross City Council Chambers Grand Opening – Monday, March 4th, at 4pm at the Don Ross Centre. The general public is welcome to attend.

COUNCIL MEETINGS Upcoming Council and Planning Committee Meetings: Tuesday, Feb 20 – Planning Committee – 4:30pm Monday, Feb 26 – City Council – 5:45pm Monday, March 11 – City Council – 5:45pm

“Somebody does know something and it’s just a matter of time before somebody spills the beans,” said Nicole Bull, spokesperson for the family of homicide victim Lee Bearsears.

Cut Knife RCMP found his body in a rural area on Poundmaker Cree Nation Oct. 16, 2023.

Bearsears, 31, was from Little Pine First Nation.

“He had injuries to his face and body and we believe he got lured by some individuals and we believe they drugged and tortured him and beat him up for a few days in a field on Poundmaker before they left him dead in the field like a dog,” Bull told SASKTODAY.ca in a phone interview Friday.

“He trusted the wrong people at the wrong time and maybe he knew something he wasn’t supposed to and maybe he was going to tell and they stopped him from doing that, maybe he walked in on something.”

Bull, who works for Little Pine First Nation security, said that people on both Little Pine and Poundmaker aren’t talking.

“The people on Poundmaker who we believe were involved, they are not saying anything. Both on Little Pine and Poundmaker, people are not saying anything. I don’t know who they are scared of and what they are scared of.

Why aren’t people coming forward? Why aren’t people saying anything?”

Bearsears’ death a homicide, say RCMP The RCMP have ruled Lee Bearsears death a homicide.

“Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes continues to investigate the death of Lee Bearsears, which has been determined to be a homicide,” Saskatchewan RCMP Media Relations in Regina told SASKTODAY. ca in an email Friday.

“The investigation is active and ongoing and as such, we have no additional details to provide at this time.”

Bearsears’ family need justice Bull said it’s difficult to see Lee Bearsears’ mother, Leslie-Ann Bearsears’ pain as she tries to cope with the loss of her son in a violent murder.

“She is very disconnected with the world right now and her surroundings because of the way her son died and how tragic it was,” said Bull. “She finds it difficult to continue but she has grandchildren and other children to live for.

I think it would be a different kind of mourning if your son died of natural causes or an accident but to

Lee Bearsears. | Social media photo

“He trusted the wrong people at the wrong time and maybe he knew something he wasn’t supposed to and maybe he was going to tell ...”

- Nicole Bull be brutally murdered, as a mother I don’t know what that feels like and I can only imagine.

“It’s hard to see her suffer the way she is right now. I don’t know how to console her except to try to help her find justice for her son’s murder and for the individuals who did this to be caught and to be tried in court.”

Lee Bearsears’ mother, along with Lee’s wife and children, need justice, said Bull.

“How long does the family and his kids have to live not knowing who the killers are and that they are not being brought to justice?

“There’s no closure.

There’s no insight on exactly what had happened.

We just know that he went missing three days prior before they discovered his body in a field, in a field on Poundmaker.”

Leslie-Ann Bearsears was receiving text messages from her son’s cell phone but believes someone else was texting her and trying to sound like him a few days after he went missing.

“She knows it was not him by the way this strange person was texting. Her son never texted like that using proper grammar. He used slang words like ‘wyd,’ ‘brt,’ ‘wru,’ and ‘atm.’”

Bearsears’ truck was left abandoned by the perpetrators at the Little Pine Land fill site, said Bull, adding that a smaller black

SUV was seen leaving the area the same time the truck was abandoned.

Bearsears a family man Bearsears was a father of seven children and worked as an apprentice at a garage in North Battleford, said Bull.

“He was a mechanic.

He was always working on vehicles. He was always fixing up his mom’s vehicles and his Kookum’s vehicles. He was working in the shop in North Battleford. He was working on his journeyman.

“He was a caring father and he was a good big brother who tried his best to provide for his family to make sure that vehicles were safe and ready for the highway any time they needed to go anywhere,” she added. “He wasn’t violent. He wasn’t a criminal offender. He wasn’t anything bad.

“We hope his killers will be brought to justice and that his family will have peace and closure and his kids will grow up healthy like he did,” said Bull.

Anyone with information about the death of Lee Bearsears should report it to their local police of jurisdiction. Dial 310-RCMP to reach your local RCMP detachment.

Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com. ljoy@glaciermedia.ca

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NB crime calls see only slight increase

By John Cairns

Library to celebrate banned books

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The Battleford Public Library is getting ready to process some lawbreakers next week with a mugshot station and banned book display for Freedom to Read Week from Feb. 18 to 24.

Carla Lamontagne, the branch’s librarian, says the display and mugshot station will help drive home the point of Freedom to Read Week, a point which she says is making sure no one is told what they can or can’t read.

“I think people should make their own decision on what they’re going to read. Otherwise, we’re going to go back to World War Two ... where Hitler was burning all the books,” Lamontage told the News-Optimist in a phone interview about the upcoming event.

One reason books are banned, Lamontagne feels, is the use of the Nword in some novels like Tom Sawyer or To Kill a Mockingbird that touch a nerve in some people.

“But they don’t realize that’s how it was then ... that gives you a window into what life was like in that time period,” she

added.

“It’s kind of like your statues. You want to forget, you want to obliterate it, but it’s the past. It’s there. If you totally erase everything from the past.

How are you ever going to get better and not make those same mistakes down the road?

The idea for the mugshot station, she says, where patrons can get a mugshot snapped of themselves and their banned book came from other libraries south of the border where book bans are reportedly sweeping US libraries and schools.

But Freedom to Read Week is celebrating its 40th anniversary in Canada this year and says that book banning is also an issue in Canada despite relative silence on the subject.

“Despite having strong traditions of free expression and free inquiry, Canada also has a longstanding tradition of censorship,” reads a section of Freedom to Read Week’s website.

They note, that even in Canada, which is considered internationally to be a free country schools and libraries are regularly asked to remove books

and magazines from their shelves.

“Historically, books and magazines have often been quietly removed from libraries and classrooms. Freedom to Read Week was founded in 1984 to challenge the covert nature of censorship, creating a broader awareness of these ongoing challenges to Canadian writing.”

Some of the banned books on display back in Battleford, include Fifty Shades of Gray, The Hunger Games, and Fahrenheit 451, though Lamontagne notes a more comprehensive list is kept on hand to order from other branches.

She noted that libraries across Canada have copies of controversial books ranging from Mein Kampf to the Communist Manifesto or other works that have been proven controversial like Harry Potter or 1984.

“They give people the freedom to read what they want and make their own decisions,” she said.

“And by keeping your options open, I think it allows people to be aware of the past, the present, and in that way, you’re going to affect your future.”

The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 3

SASKTODAY.ca

The final 2023 statistics are in for North Battleford Municipal RCMP Detachment and they show a mixed result with some areas showing increases and others showing decreases.

The final stats were presented in the report from RCMP Inspector Jesse Gilbert at North Battleford City Council Monday. According to those numbers the detachment had 16,942 calls in 2023, up from 16,760 the year before and up 18 per cent from 14,393 in 2019.

Individual categories saw mixed results. Persons offences were at 1,432 from 1,363 the year before and up 34 from 2019. There were three homicides in 2023, up one from the year previous.

Assaults were down slightly from 535 to 518, and sexual assaults were down from 34 to 25. But offences for the “use of, discharge, or pointing” of firearms were up from 19 to 31.

Property offences were at 4,399, down 25 from

a year earlier, but other Criminal Code offences were up from 2,719 to 2,954. Both categories are way up from 2019 — up 29 per cent and 68 per cent respectively.

Provincial traffic offences were also up, from 2,097 to 2,465, while the non-offence codes went down from 5,037 to 4,695.

For the October through December period, calls were up three percent from 3,929 to 4,049. Insp. Gilbert pointed in particular to a rise in provincial traffic offences, due mainly to the checkstop program which saw an increase from four to 117 compared to the year before, and a rise in impaired-related offences and roadside suspensions from seven to 24.

This was a result of their proactive enforcement efforts in this area, he said. “I’m very happy to see those increases because it shows we’re going out and doing that work,” said Gilbert.

He also pointed to a decline in firearms offences

in the quarter, which fell from 21 to 3, which was also a reversal of the upward trend seen earlier in the year. Overall, firearms offences were also not at the levels seen five years earlier - down 39 percent from the 66 seen in 2019.

Gilbert also pointed to big successes in the area of thefts of motor vehicles, with those numbers way down for the year to 148, down 27 per cent from 219 a year earlier. The numbers for 2023 marked a fiveyear low.

“The GTF (Gang Task Force) has been working very hard to get those vehicles back,” said Gilbert.

Councillor Kelli Hawtin saw the overall numbers for the quarter as a positive, saying if provincial traffic offences were taken out of the report, total calls for service would have been down compared to a year earlier.

“It’s nice to see those other areas we’re making a difference somewhere,” Hawtin said. “Something’s changing, something is improving.”

Nature is Awesome

SaskPower issues scam alert SASKTODAY.ca SaskPower says it has had a number of messages from customers receiving a new text message scam Monday evening.

The fraudulent text message claims to be a billing reminder, stating the customer has an outstanding balance of $10.58 and that if not paid via the included link by Feb. 13, the customer “may lose

your electricity.” The text message appears to come from an out-of-province telephone number (when called there is no activated voicemail).

Customers should not follow the link in the text message or provide any information to this website, SaskPower advises.

Anyone who believes they have fallen victim to this scam should contact their financial institution and

their local law enforcement agency.

Anyone who has received this text message should delete it immediately.

SaskPower offers the following tips to protect customers from being scammed: If being directed to a website, always look at the URL in any communications claiming to be from SaskPower.

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Commentary

Let’s pause before we OK the killing of the mentally ill

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.

Expanding MAiD to the mentally ill takes on a slippery slope of politicians using it as a way to cut healthcare costs

By Doug Firby

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

A close friend of mine died a few days ago. Her painful end came three years after her husband died of complications related to COVID. Losing him drove Sheila into a pit of despair so deep she couldn’t crawl out. While I and one of her sisters tried to lift her up with empathy and words of encouragement from afar – we both live in the West, and Sheila was in Ontario – she descended into the darkest of places. Lonely days of endless grieving were blotted out with alcohol and self-starvation.

By the time she was admitted to hospital with a ruptured gall bladder, her 80-pound frame was too fragile to survive the trauma of emergency surgery. She got her heart-breaking wish to be reunited with her life partner.

Sheila’s ordeal and her steadfast decision to slowly take her own life made me reflect on the fraught debate over when, or perhaps even whether, to expand the mandate of MAiD, or medical assistance in dying. A simpler and older term for this is euthanasia. The ethical issues in this debate are agonizing and complex, and will profoundly affect the national consensus on when it is right to help someone bring about their own end.

For those reasons, I welcome the federal government’s decision to pause for three years the planned access to MAiD for individuals whose sole underlying condition is mental illness. The expansion was to come into effect in March, but most provinces, much of the medical community, and even the Canadian Mental Health Association warned they simply were not ready to implement this radical shift in health care.

The extension, the second one so far, will allow for a committee of MPs and senators to reconvene in two years to assess the state of readiness for the extension of MAiD. And there is good reason for the pause. At the moment, there are no finalized national standards to determine whether a mentally ill person might qualify for MAiD, and no transparent review process is in place.

Some critics, including Dying with Dignity Canada and three senators, see a further delay as an issue that affects constitutional rights. Senator Pamela Wallin said it appears the government no longer subscribes to “the notion of choice and how important it is.”

But put yourself in the position of the medical experts who will be asked to decide whether someone is too mentally ill to continue living. It is clearly at odds with their bio-ethical training to “first, do no harm.”

Decisions involving people who have incurable physical diseases that are certain to bring about painful deaths, such as cancer, are relatively straightforward. It is indeed compassionate to allow those individuals to make

Regional

a peaceful exit while they are of sound mind and can surround themselves with loved ones.

MAiD essentially improved on a practice that has been going on for many years. Physicians have for decades administered a powerful brew of painkillers to terminal patients in their final hours that they know will bring about their deaths. It is known as the Brompton cocktail, and it has been allowed because doctors are technically just treating the pain symptoms.

The big difference between the cocktail treatment and MAiD is that, invariably, the Brompton cocktail is employed only when death is imminent.

Decisions involving people with incurable and severe mental illness are more difficult to assess. A physician must somehow find objective evidence that the patient’s illness will produce “intolerable suffering,” and that there are no viable treatment options to relieve that suffering. As many critics of expanded MAiD point out, would such suffering be inevitable if the treatment of mental illness was better funded?

There’s another important consideration, however. As anyone who has tried to support a suicidal person knows, a person who is set on ending their own life will find a way to make it happen. Often, as with Sheila, it will be slow and painful. Canadian author Miriam Toews brilliantly described the futility of trying to save a loved one bent on her own destruction in her novel All My Puny

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Sorrows.

I frankly don’t know whether Sheila could have been saved with better mental health support. What I do know is that her friends had not given up on hoping she could find a reason to live right up until the moment her heart stopped. For that reason, I would never want to see someone in circumstances like hers have access to MAiD. Of course, there is another worry about statesanctioned euthanasia that has always made me uneasy.

And it is that it can become a cost-saving convenience for governments looking to save taxpayer dollars. We introduced MAiD as an act of compassion for terminal patients but there are dark forces that will eventually realize there is a strong business case to see it expanded.

Think of the thousands of dollars per patient that can be saved! It is a slippery slope.

As the country wrestles with the complex ethical issues that arise from MAiD for the mentally ill, three years will go by in a flash. It is a debate that all Canadians would do well to be engaged in.

Doug Firby is an award-winning editorial writer with over four decades of experience working for newspapers, magazines and online publications in Ontario and western Canada. Previously, he served as Editorial Page Editor at the Calgary Herald. © Troy Media Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

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Another Boondoggle

By R.H. Wood

North Battleford

The logic of last week’s article, if there was any at all, was not terribly obvious I have been informed. “Let me be perfectly clear” to use a phrase commonly and most irritatingly used by school ma’am Chrystia our finance minister, the carbon tax increases will essentially support the childcare, dental care and incipient pharmacare programs which are supposed to be “free”. We are told that carbon tax is ad-

CSI conference

Continued from Page 1 the city had been discussing this conference with them for some time.

He noted North Battleford had been at or near the top of the CSI index since it was brought in in 2009. “So we’re trying to find solutions from this, trying to find away to better understand the limitations of the Crime Severity Index as it’s calculated… and then the second issue is the ranking of communities starting at populations of 10,000 and above, and the fact that basically the same 10 to 15 communities are always at the top of the list.”

Gillan noted that communities from across western Canada in the top 10 to 15 in the CSI list are coming. The mayor is hoping the conference will address many of the issues seen, including the reputational damage to cities due to bad publicity from the CSI

mired and envied by other countries except Russia, China and India and other

significant polluters. It does not cause inflation, of course, and any chance of cancellation of the planned increases is zero.

One wonders how much our quarterly refunds are set to rise. Rescinding the carbon tax is impossible despite Mr. Poilievre’s promises.

Today, as I write this, the Auditor General’s report on the travel app has been tabled in Parliament in the absence of Prime Minister Trudeau and Deputy P. M. Chrystia. Also not to be seen was Omar Alghabra, now

ranking.

“We hope we’re going to have some positive results for all our communities, not just the city of North Battleford, but all our communities, and with Stats Can present hopefully will find a solution to this situation we find ourselves in for a lot of years, because it really, really hurts our community. I can’t even explain the pain (of) this publicity, this negative publicity of this ranking every year of the city of North Battleford. I was just in Charlottetown, visiting my 94 year old mother. I met with her colleagues in the old age home who said ‘what about the crime in North Battleford?’

“It is crazy, it is just crazy, and this CSI thing is all over the Internet and it’s so misunderstood. So we’re going to dig in this conference and we’re hoping to have a positive result.”

Battlefords RCMP Inspector Jesse Gilbert con-

firmed at Monday’s council meeting that the RCMP will have a number of representatives attending. “ I think it’s a conversation long overdue,” he said.

Gilbert noted that when the CSI was first brought in, “they made it very clear when it was put in place that it’s one measurement, it’s not to be taken by itself.

There’s so many things that can make the numbers fluctuate. And I think one of the other issues is the way they tie ‘more dangerous’ to the numbers, and that might not be the perception, that may not be the actual outcome… “ Gilbert also noted that the crime severity numbers are particularly skewed for communities that are smaller. One issue is the cutoff of 10,000 population in the rankings.

“Somehow these guardrails got put out, particularly for communities this size and they get caught in that.

It does impact communi-

W

The

ood Pile

Year’s grocery bill paid SASKTODAY.ca The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) has calculated that by Friday, Feb. 9, a Canadian household of average income had earned enough to pay for their entire year’s grocery bill.

Each year, CFA examines the proportion of income that Canadians spend on food to explore year-over-year expenditure changes and raise consumers’ understanding of Canada’s food system, from Farm-Gate-to-Plate.

Canadians spent 11.1 per cent of their disposable income on food in 2023, which is slightly higher than the 11 per cent of disposable income spent on food in 2022. As this change is very slight, Food Freedom Day lands on the same day as the previous year, Feb. 9.

With food prices having seen multiple years of significant inflation, it’s important to provide further context on the Food Freedom Day metric, as the average Canadian

disposable income is not representative of every Canadian’s experience or the effects that rising food prices have on them. While Canada’s food system continues to provide access to affordable food by global standards, inflation and other global events have negatively impacted food affordability and security greatly over the past few years.

Due to this, CFA continues to analyze Food Freedom Day with an eye to the differential impacts food prices have on Canadian households based on household income levels to show the percentage of disposable income that they spent on food last year.

There is a large difference between how much disposable income households in the lowest income quintile (28 per cent) and the highest income quintile (5 per cent) spent on food and beverages throughout the year. Adding onto this, rising prices are affecting the lowest quintile disproportionately, with the lowest income quintile’s dis-

posable income spending on food and non-alcoholic beverages rising quickly (23.1 per cent in 2022 to 28 per cent in 2023) while the disposable income spending as a percentage has lowered for the highest quintile (5.2 per cent in 2022 to 5 per cent in 2023).

Lower-income Canadian households are facing a heavier burden when it comes to rising food costs, while increases in disposable income for the highest quintile may be outpacing food inflation.

CFA notes that while Canadians have seen food prices increase steadily throughout 2023 on the grocery shelves, farmers receive a small percentage of the price that consumers pay for food, and rising retail prices are not normally reflective of what is paid at the farm gate.

Farmers have seen their costs of production increase tremendously over the past several years, with many of their largest expenses, such as fertilizer and diesel, rising nearly 100 per cent in that period.

The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 5

a backbencher, no longer a cabinet member and soon to quit politics. He was the Minister of Transport responsible for introducing the travel app and the main protagonist for what Mr. Poilievre calls the Arrive-can Scam. Two less important unfortunate ministers were fielded to repetitively insist that they “are all working very hard” on the acceptance of all the Auditor’s recommendations. There was no admission of failure or acceptance of responsibility for this $60 million fiasco.

I have no doubt that the 10,000 travellers, forced on their own recognisance into unnecessary isolation, will set up a class action

suit seeking compensation.

By the way, Mr. Trudeau has yet to make any comment on the negative Emergency Measures Act verdict by Judge Mosley. Apparently, there is no measure of accountability such as would apply outwith the walls of this government. In the mother of Parliament, ministers senior and minor, touched by scandal or shortcomings are obliged or have the integrity to step down as did our previous Speaker of the House, Mr. Rota.

For any seeking light amusement please look up the inane skits starring our noted actor P.M. and not thusly noted

Transport Minister clearing the arrival of Santa Claus in 2021 and 2022 with NORAD (YouTube).

For those less easily amused, please refresh your memories of the still ongoing all too real Phoenix civil servant’s payroll fiasco which has cost well over $2 billion and is even more scandalous than the Arrive-can mess. In contradistinction to what is being claimed, this government apparently learned nothing from fictional Phoenix which is raising its head again.

Arrive-can is another “debacle” to use Mr. Singh’s word – how long will the NDP/Liberal marriage of convenience last?

ties that are smaller, and the communities that are bigger are so big that they can have a lot more crime and the numbers don’t tell the same stories because they spread it over a larger population. So I think it’s a conversation that needs to happen, and I think the way that it’s being reported takes all the nuance out of the numbers. And I don’t really know how you can speak to somewhere being dangerous without any nuance there. When you talk to people, no one seems to feel in the city that it is what it is reported.”

Gilbert said even with the RCMP when you tell people you work in North

Battleford, the reaction is “whoa, that must be tough.”

“Actually, it’s really nice, I’m happy here,” said

Gilbert. “That message that’s out there outside of the city doesn’t match what you hear in the city.”

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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

Elks Support Baseball History

Sweeping to the Top

Jane Shury with the Saskatchewan Baseball Museum and Hall of Fame accepts a donation of $2,000 from Zonie Krawchuck (left) and Ken Mckay on behalf of the North Battleford Elks Lodge No. 369 in North Battleford at the museum’s Feb. 8 open house. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

The Wayne Scheible rink has earned top spot in the Carol Christopher 50 Plus League playing out of the Twin Rivers Curling Club at the Northland Power Curling Centre. The trophy was presented to the team composed of skip Wayne Scheible, third Lyle Darwent, second Richard Reed and lead Merv Zulynik. The league, composed of close to 90 curlers each season, plays Thursday mornings and afternoons. The January to March season is underway. | Photo submitted

Table Mountain hosts ski cross this weekend

By Sherri Solomko

Freelance Reporter

Table Mountain is set to host the excitement of competitive skiers in a National Ski Cross event for both men’s and women’s events starting Friday and running throughout the weekend.

Opening day will be a training day and time qualifications for seeding athletes with the weekend included races in U12, U14, U15, U19, open and FIS events.

Ski Cross is a race designed for four athletes to be sent on a high-speed track with technical features of high-speed turns, rollers and jumps they must fight through as they make their way to the finish line. Skiers are seeded into brackets based on their time qualifications and do a knockout format where the top two in the heat advance and the bottom two get knocked out. Athletes fight their way through to the last four who com-

pete in the big finals to get awarded first through fourth place in each age category.

With added hype from Olympic coverage of this event, ski cross provides an entertaining spectator sport for the viewers and the athletes alike.

Organizers Shaun Jamieson, Mia Fairley, Carla Spriggs and Tyler Mack are excited about the opportunity that began with some legacy funding received from the 2018 Provincial Winter Games hosted in North Battleford. Jamieson said these funds allowed capital purchases of all equipment necessary to run a proper ski cross event, including start gate and safety systems.

“This was a kickstart for our club to include this discipline as part of our training and competition focus for our athletes from our Nancy Greene U6 – U10 groups right up to our national U12, U14, U16 & U19 levels,” say Table

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Table Mountain plays host to a National Ski Cross event Feb. 16-18. | Photo courtesy of Shaun Jamieson

Mountain organizers.

Jamieson adds, “After the games I took it upon myself to get involved with the western ski cross by volunteering for a NorAm race at Nakiska Ab. I’ve helped officiate four others since, as well as was pulled up to the World Cup this past January. “ After working on the NorAm track for many sea-

sons, Jamieson knew that Table Mountain would be the perfect facility to host a high-calibre race such as ski cross.

“Most alpine disciplines such as Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom, we in Saskatchewan struggle as we don’t have the terrain out here to train and race those. Ski cross on the other hand is built on terrain

Request for Proposals As per our Investment Policy #07/03, the Foundation is seeking proposals for the management of our investment portfolio.

Complete information at www.bdcf.ca Submission deadline is April 30, 2024.

Circle

Et FNoRrtE hwes 's an atchew Sask ist Guide Tour

EST THE NO2R0T2H3 W Edition

just like what Table Mountain can offer so this makes it a perfect fit.”

Jamieson affirms great support from the club along with a collective effort to bring this event to being has combined to host the Ski Cross competition. He proposed hosting Federation International Ski (FIS) competition last season and Table Mountain was approached in February if they would be interested.

“With that invitation, we felt it was finally Saskatchewan’s opportunity to be part of the western circuit with Nakiska, Edmonton and Big White. “ Any event hosts will attest to the volunteers it takes to pre-plan and host, with Jamieson stating they are looking for, and have, about 40 people needed and to be trained for race day.

“This is our first FIS event and because of the delayed start for snow there was a NorAms in the States that rebooked for the same weekend we were scheduled so our Nakiska group which was scheduled to come, backed out because they can hit two events down there on one flight.

We now have 15 FIS athletes coming from Alberta plus all of our Sask. athletes, and a few Alberta national athletes so we should see a total field of roughly 100 racers for that weekend.”

With high hopes of this event providing good trac-

tion for future event, organizers say they are looking into hosting a NorAm event again as early as next season. This would pull athletes from the states, Australia, Germany and other countries right here to Saskatchewan and as Jameson affirms, “That’s a big deal!”

With a small delay to season start due to lack of snow, Table Mountain has geared up in a big way to not only host a regular ski season but also promote Saskatchewan athletes in competitive skiing through their own club as well as by hosting events such as these.

The mid-February action provides a great opportunity for local residents and visitors to experience the excitement of a live national competition right here in their home province.

For more than five decades, Table Mountain Ski Resort, near the Battlefords, has been providing downhill skiing opportunities that has grown from a quaint little ski hill to the recreation venue it is today.

Table Mountain is located 16 km west of Battleford or 29 km east of Cut Knife on Highway 40, then 9.5 km north and west on a grid road.

Forty-five acres of property offer a wide variety of terrain from well-groomed runs to challenging mogul run or the ever-popular terrain park.

ATTENTION NORTHWEST SASKATCHEWAN! We are gathering information and advertising for our 2024 Edition Circle The Northwest.

Business owners this is your chance to be included.

Do you have an interesting story?

Call Valorie Higgs 306•441•5665 or email valoriehiggs@sasktel.net Deadline for submissions Wednesday March 21, 2024

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The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 7

Taking action for sustainable future: The Jackfish Lake Breakwater Project

By Sherri Solomko

Freelance Reporter

Concerned citizens who know the failure of the Jackfish Lake – Lehman Creek breakwater could seriously affect water levels in both Jackfish and Murray Lake, affecting fish migration and recreational activities, are in fundraising mode.

The project steering committee for the Jackfish Lake Breakwater Project released a public information report as of Jan. 24 of 2024.

The estimated total cost of the project Is $1.8 M and has been developed by the village of Cochin’s contracted consulting engineers WSP. A funding report entitled “Friends of Jackfish Lake” has been posted on the Jackfish Lake Breakwater Project Facebook page and on Cochin’s web site. All monies received are held in trust for this project. and for this project only. The project’s financials will be audited by an independent auditor.

Currently, approximately $500,000 remains to be raised.

A boost for the project was received from members of the Whitwell family, who presented the Breakwater Rehabilitation

Committee with a grant from the Michael Whitwell Memorial Fund, in the amount of $11,538.55, to support the Jackfish Lake – Lehman Creek Breakwater Project.

The release from the Battleford’s District Community Foundation quoted Michel’s parents, Roddy, Candy and sister Brittany Fader, “Mike’s love and respect for the lakes helped us to make the decision to support this project. He was passionate about the fish and wildlife,” they said. “The lake was a huge and important part of his life. Supporting its longevity in his memory is an honour. We encourage others to support this important project.”

The fund established with BDCF, after Micheal’s passing in 2011, has also provided support for the dock in Cochin.

The BDCF manages more than 28 funds that contribute to a wide range of interests and you can find more information from this foundation on their website bdcf.ca.

Cochin’s mayor, Harvey Walker, said of the donation, “This generous gift in Michael’s memory helps assure we will make our fundraising goal. Rehabilitation is essential

to maintaining the flow of water between the two lakes as structural failure of the breakwater is on the horizon, and if that occurs, navigation between the lakes will, among other negative results, be a thing of the past. We thank the Whitwell family for their vision.”

Walker says the best way to access information about this project is to go to the Jackfish Lake Breakwater Project page on Facebook or the Cochin website at www.cochin.ca.

In addition to all the details on the Breakwater Project, the website shows those who have contributed to the project so far. All donors will receive a charitable tax receipt.

Early in the Cochin council’s first term, councillors examined the state of disrepair of the breakwater and determined urgent action was needed to prevent total failure of the structure which could result in a return to the historically blocked creek mouth.

From there a Committee of Council, designated as the Project Steering Committee was struck and a Project Charter was created.

The steering committee is comprised of Harvey Walker, Mayor of Cochin as chair, Peter Wiesner,

Gold Eagle among three SIGA casinos offer EV charging SASKTODAY.ca Level 3 (fast charging) and Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are now offered for SIGA Casino guests at three locations: Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert, Gold Eagle Casino in North Battleford and Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton.

“It is important to us to operate in an environmentally sustainable manner and build that into our operational plans going forward, staying true to SIGA’s guiding principle of Witaskêwin, which means living together on the land,” said Director of SIGA Operations Daniel Morin.

The ChargePoint Level 3 charging station provides up to 125 kilowatts of electric charging capacity. This equates to approximately 200 kilometres of range with a 30-minute charge time.

Earlier this year, SIGA’s Operations Department received approval for Phase 1 funding from SaskPower and Natural Resources Canada for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, at three SIGA Casinos, through SaskPower’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (EVIP).

Phase 2 will see EV chargers installed at the remainder of SIGA’s seven casinos over the next 12 months.

An overhead view of the Jackfish Lake Breakwater that will soon be undergoing important rehabilitation work to keep it viable for the foreseeable future. | Google Earth

Cochin councillor, Sherry Jimmy, reeve of the RM of Meota, Ruth Seime, chair of the Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds, and Moosomin First Nation and Saulteaux First Nation representatives. Rob Wiebe is a technical advisor. The Communications Sub-Committee consists of Alexis Christensen along with David and Joy Regnier, who are personally committed to the project.

Cochin mayor and council reiterate that no com-

mittee member is being paid from any funds raised to support this project. Every dollar raised through donations or grants will be spent on the Breakwater Project.

Failure of the breakwater could seriously affect water levels in both lakes and could interfere with fish migration as well as negatively affect recreational activities on both lakes, ultimately impacting property owners, daily users and tourists, all of

whom spend significant dollars at business in the area. It is important to note that the breakwater’s rehabilitation is a lake community’s responsibility and not just a Cochin issue.

The public report indicates construction tendering and contract process will take place in early 2024. It is anticipated that shovels will be in the ground by August of 2024, with construction hoped to be completed before the year is over.

New scratch ticket only in Saskatchewan SASKTODAY.ca For the first time, Saskatchewan residents will have the opportunity to purchase and play a scratch-and-win lottery ticket that is exclusively available in the province.

The $5 ONLY IN SASK ticket was launched at the 1,000 Lotto Spot retailers across Saskatchewan Feb.

12.

This exclusive ticket commemorates the 50th anniversary of Sask Lotteries. The long-standing fundraiser has supported more than 12,000 sport, culture and recreation groups in Saskatchewan communities since 1974, providing more than $1.4 billion in funding during that time.

The ONLY IN SASK ticket’s design, created by Saskatchewan illustrator Brian Kuchur, features icons depicting sport, culture and recreation.

Prizes range from $5 to the $50,000 top prize, including significant prizes of $1,050 and $5,000. The overall odds of winning any prize are one in 4.12.

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week

February 12-18, 2024

MGBHLM All Nations Training Education & Career Centre - Home Builders Program.

MGBHLM All Nations Training Education & Career Centre - Mental Health & Wellness.

McKitrick School.

Sakewew High School Staff.

Thank you for your dedication

Jeremy Cockrill, MLA The Battlefords Constituency 306-445-5195 1991-100th Street North Battleford, SK

To all the staff we

Thank you

Thank You for your dedication & your hard work.

We appreciate all you do.

Thank You to all of our Teachers and Staff for your hard work, dedication and support for all of our North West College Students.

You truly make a difference!

École Père Mercure

www.northwestcollege.ca

to our amazing teachers and instructors.

Your support in education inspire and enrich our students, their families and our communities.

You make the world a better place for us all.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 9

Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week

February 12-18, 2024 •

•

Living Sky School Division Board of Education is pleased to celebrate

Miss Timko and Mrs. Panchuk of St. Mary’s School.

McKitrick School.

Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week February 11th - 17th, 2024

Thank you for all the work you do to support & promote learning in our division.

• Mrs. Panchuk of St. Mary’s School.

Light of Christ Catholic Schools

National Teacher/ Staff Appreciation

Week

February 11 - 17, 2024

We would like to take this opportunity to recognize our teachers, administrators and support staff.

We sincerely thank you for your dedication and untiring efforts in providing high quality Catholic Education for the students with whom you work.

We appreciate the many extra efforts that you so willingly extend to ensure a caring and supportive environment for each of your students.

THANKS SO MUCH! The Light of Christ Catholic Schools Catholic Board of Education

Growth Without Limits, Learning For All

•

McKitrick School.

YOU’RE A ROCKSTAR we’re in our

teacher and staff appreciation era

TEACHER STAFF A P P R E C I AT I O N W E E K February 11-17, 2024

Treaty Six Education Council Management and Board is pleased to celebrate

Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week February 11th - 17th, 2024 Thank you to the administrators, teachers and staff working in the schools we serve.

Your untiring support and dedication educating our children and grandchildren is greatly appreciated.

Kinanaskomitinan (We thank you!)

Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Making Life More Affordable with the Active Families Benefit

Families with children participating in sports, culture and recreation activities can access the Active Families Benefit when filing their 2023 taxes. The benefit is available to families with an annual income up to $60,000. They can receive up to $150 per year, for each child 18 years or younger.

For more information visit Saskatchewan.ca Hon. Scott Moe, Premier, MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill, MLA for The Battlefords

scottmoe.mla@sasktel.net 306-747-3422

office@jeremycockrill.ca 306-445-5195

Festival Fanfare

20240208_News Optimist Ad_Active-Fam-Benefit.indd 1

2024-02-07 11:11:27 AM

Vocals adjudicator an accomplished performer

By Kelly Waters

Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

The 2024 Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival is scheduled to run from April 15 to 28 with vocal sessions scheduled April 21 to 24. This year’s guest vocal adjudicator is Ron de Jager, a native of Nova Scotia. Dr. de Jager is at Briercrest College for his 16th year. In 2009 he took a two-year study leave and completed a Doctor of Musical Arts at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va. Recent research and recitals have focused on nationalistic Canadian vocal music, particularly works

by Torontonian composer John Beckwith.

Throughout his studies, de Jager has been mentored

by Lorna MacDonald, Elvira Gonella, Greta Kraus and most recently, Dr. Janette Ogg. Recent performances include Bob in Menotti’s “The Old Maid” and “The Thief” (October 2017), an all-German recital with Dr. Laura Loewen (University of Manitoba, January 2016) and the role of Cosme McMoon in “Souvenir” with Rhubarb Productions (April 2016).

In 2012, de Jager sang for Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall at the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The ceremony was broadcast nationally on CBC and CTV. At the request of the lieutenant-governor of Nova Scotia, he was the guest soloist at the inauguration of Pier 21 on Canada Day 2000.

In addition, de Jager has enjoyed performing opera, oratorio, solo recitals, musical theatre, film and ballet. Select performances include “Dichterliebe,” “The

Five Mystical Songs,” by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Papageno in “Die Zauberflöte,” Billy Budd in “BillyBudd,” Harry Easter in “Street Scene,” Major General Stanley in “Pirates of Penzance,” Eli Black in “Without a Hitch?” Curly in “OKLAHOMA!” and the title role in Maury Yeston’s “Phantom.” de Jager has performed as a recital soloist in Canada, the United States and the Netherlands and enjoys collaborating and performing with his wife, pianist Elena de Jager. Favourite recital selections include works by German composers Schubert, Loewe and Schumann and compositions by Handel, Debussy, Poulenc, Laitmann and Beckwith.

Reviewers have written, de Jager’s singing “... showed a refined and precise sense of the colour and atmosphere of the music” (Toronto, 1997), “.... in the second act he went on to sing the most touching moment of the evening” (Halifax, 2001) and “the role of the Major General is brilliantly portrayed by Ron de Jager whose experience is apparent in his brilliant expressions and rendition of the famous tongue-twisting tune.” (Moose Jaw, 2012). de Jager has been a winner in the National Auditions of the American College of Musicians, MATS competition and Kiwanis Festival. He has been awarded the Monica Rychman Award, William Cary Award, NovaScotia Cultural Development Grant and was nominated to the Golden Key Society.

Additionally, he serves as a vocal adjudicator and has adjudicated festivals and competitions in Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, NovaScotia, New Brunswick and Virginia.

As an associate profes-

Ron de Jager is in the music department at Briercrest College for his 16th year. | Photo courtesy Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

sor at Briercrest College, he teaches private voice, vocal pedagogy, vocal master class, musical theatre workshop and acting.

He directs opera scenes, Voices from the Front and serves as the artistic director of A Briercrest Christmas. Additionally, he provides leadership to the performance and worship arts department while maintaining a performance schedule.

“I am incredibly grateful for the many teachers, collaborators and performers who have generously given of themselves. These people chose to pass on

what was given to them and their years of experience and wisdom remain an inspiration to me each day. I hope to do the same.”

For local folks wanting to show support for the festival, there are a variety of options. Businesses or individuals may wish to sponsor a session or award.

Volunteer opportunities come in all sizes. For folks with more complicated schedules, volunteering might be in the form of making phone calls or running errands. For others, volunteering might involve being a greeter outside of sessions during the festival

or being a secretary for the adjudicator. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and see where your time, skills, or resources might be of most help. Correspondence can be directed by email to the committee secretary Amy Francais amy. francais@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1301, North Battleford, Sask., S9A 3L8.

“I don’t like the word ‘rock star’ or ‘superstar.’

I am a guitar player, a songwriter who got lucky because I stayed at it and didn’t give up, long enough that people noticed me.”

- Randy Bachman, (1953 2023)

Art Notes

Booking a day with an art form

By Deborah Jackson Battlefords Art Club

On Jan 30, the Battlefords Art Club hosted a group of artists while they discovered a new way to create a book.

After settling in their spots, the participants playfully moved, spattered and sprayed watercolour paint onto both sides of a large sheet of watercol- Handmade books standing and spread open to finish drying. our paper. Once done, it was off to the | Photos submitted hair dryers. The paper had to be thoroughly dried, then folded and cut in a specific way. Voilà, a book.

The fun was in the making. These books can be used in several ways.

Often artists use a sketchbook to warm up before launching into a painting and these handmade books are just the ticket as good quality paper is used.

Others enjoy these books as background to scrapbook work, as a photo album or perhaps collage work. The options are endless.

The Battlefords Art Club is open to hosting a variety of classes on Tuesday afternoons or evenings. Instructors and participants do not have to be members of the club. If you are interested in hosting a workshop or you see something you might like to attend, please email battlefordsartclub@gmail.com

“Loving My New Hearing Aid From Battlefords Hearing!” #2 11204 Railway Ave East (306) 445-5700

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The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 11

Lottery ticket purchase an ultrasound decision BUH Foundation 2024-’25 Monthly Lottery kicks off

Dr. Yen and the surgical team at Battlefords Union Hospital with an ultrasound machine. Monthly Lottery proceeds are tagged to support purchase and new machine for the ICU with a projected cost of $64,756. | Photo submitted

SASKTODAY.ca Battlefords Union Hospital (BUH) Foundation’s 2024-25 Monthly Lottery launched Thursday, Feb. 15.

BUH Foundation’s longest-running lottery gives away a total of $50,000 in cash plus a 50/50 jackpot.

There are only 1300 tickets to be sold with 13 draws made every month for a total of $4,000 in prizes each month for 12 months. The top prize is $1,000, second prize $600, third prize $400 and 10 additional prizes of $200

each. The 50/50 jackpot has grown every year and last year gave away $16,235.

Proceeds will purchase a new bedside ultrasound machine for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at BUH. This device is a valuable tool for physicians working in critical care environments to obtain immediate clinical information, improve patient safety, increase efficiency and decrease complications, according to BUH Foundation.

It provides diagnosis capability at the bedside and can perform ultrasound-

guided procedures. The machine is a new piece of equipment for the ICU and has a projected cost of $64,756.

Lottery tickets remain at $110 each for the year with 50/50 enhancements of $10 each after the purchase of a main lottery ticket only.

Tickets are available at the BUH Foundation office or in Gratefully Yours Gift and Food Shop, both located in the Main Lobby of BUH, Battleford Furniture, online at www.buhfoundation.com or by calling 306446-6652.

Bright job picture in Sask: StatsCan SASKTODAY.ca Newly released numbers from Statistics Canada show Saskatchewan’s labour market is off to a strong start in 2024, with 12,900 new jobs added last month when compared to January 2023, an increase of 2.2 per cent. The provincial labour force also reached 623,300 in January, a record high for the month.

The provincial seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.7 per cent, ranked third amongst the provinces, remaining consistently below the national average of 5.7 per cent.

Saskatchewan saw both an all-time historical popu-

lation (aged 15 and over) high of 938,900, and an alltime historical off-reserve Indigenous population (aged 15 and over) high of 112,300.

The province also saw record highs for the month of January (aged 15 and over), including: Total Saskatchewan employment: 591,500 Saskatchewan male employment: 313,900 Saskatchewan female employment: 277,600 Off-reserve Indigenous employment: 62,400 Off-reserve Indigenous employment was up 2,600, an increase of 4.3 per cent, and Indigenous youth employment was up 3,300, an increase of

33.3 per cent, marking the fourth consecutive month of year-over-year increases for both.

Both of Saskatchewan’s major cities saw job growth compared to last January as well, with Regina’s employment up 10,100, an increase of 7.3 per cent, and Saskatoon’s employment up 10,800, an increase of 5.8 per cent.

Major year-over-year gains were reported for professional, scientific and technical services, up 9,500, an increase of 32.8 per cent; educational services, up 4,300, an increase of 8.2 per cent; and wholesale and retail trade, up 2,900, an increase of 3.0 per cent.

The Andrew Collins Trio: February 29 | 7:30 pm Cabaret Seating (general admission) in the Lawrence Hall Andrew Collins is a versatile musician at the forefront of Canada’s acoustic/roots music scene. He has co-founded various successful Canadian bands and is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, arranger, writer, and teacher across multiple genres including folk, jazz, bluegrass, Celtic, and classical. He has garnered numerous JUNO nominations and Canadian Folk Music Awards.

With his trio featuring Mike Mezzatesta and James McEleney, Collins showcases a range of styles and instruments on stage, blending genres and keeping ahead of the game, landing between Béla Fleck and David Grisman.

“These three supremely talented string wizards had our crowd clapping, dancing, buying merch, and begging for more.”

The Bassment, Saskatoon SK “Light of touch, fast of wit, copiously imaginative, and a musical scholar of the highest distinction, Toronto mandolin virtuoso pulls out all the stops.”

Toronto Star

35 + tax $ Student: 29.75 + tax Regular:

$

For tickets: 306-445-7700 dekkercentre.com

Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Swinging with the Stars raises more than $111,000

At the fundraiser, Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium in North Battleford made a special presentation and donated $5,000.

Submitted Battlefords Union Hospital has announced the success of its 1st annual Swinging with the Stars event, which took place on Saturday, Feb. 3. The event, which brought together local “stars” and professional dancers, raised over $111,000 in support of the BUH. The 1st annual Swinging with the Stars event was a highly anticipated fundraiser that showcased a diverse range of dance styles, including tap, hip hop, jazz, salsa, highland and Ukrainian dancing.

The event brought together talented individuals from the community, alongside professional dancers, to create a truly memorable evening of entertainment.

The event was a huge

success, drawing a large crowd of dance enthusiasts and community members alike. The fusion of local talent and professional expertise showcased throughout the evening left attendees in awe. The energy and passion for dance were palpable, as dancers danced their hearts out on the stage, captivating the audience with their intricate footwork and synchronized routines.

In addition to providing an evening of entertainment, the Swinging with the Stars event also aimed to raise funds for a Neonatal CPAP machine for the Women’s Health and Birthing ward at Battlefords Union Hospital. The overwhelming support of the community, along with the generosity of sponsors

and donors, allowed BUH Foundation to not only exceed their initial fundraising goal of $35,000 but go beyond expectations for a first time event.

The success of the 1st annual Swinging with the Stars event is a testament to the dedication and support of the community. We are grateful to all who attended the event, volunteered their time, and donated generously. Together, we made a difference and continue to support the health and well-being of those in need said, Leanne Ducommun, Executive Director with BUH Foundation.

The pro-am fundraising dance teams were Ames Leslie and Sara-Lee Reimer (TeamTap Tinglers), Daniel Stokalko and Shannon Rask (Team Fiery 24023DS2 24023DS3

Swinging with the Stars was a highly anticipated fundraiser that showcased a diverse range of dance styles, including tap, hip hop, jazz, salsa, highland and Ukrainian dancing. | Photos courtesy Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation

Dancers from Annette’s School of Dance were guest performers.

Feet), Tonya Lehman and Melissa Squire (Team Move Makers), Dr. Kelsey Lazar and Hamma Mu-

lock (Team Poptastic), Dal Lynds and Delaney Cheyne (Team Beat Breakers), Grant Schutte and Vivian

Blais (Team Salsa Swings) and Mandy Lehman and Jerry Koliniak (Team Hot Steppers).

Tax break available to active families SASKTODAY.ca With tax season around the corner, the Government of Saskatchewan is reminding families with children and youth participating in sports, culture and recreation that they can access the Active Families Benefit when they file their 2023 taxes.

The benefit is available to families with an annual income of up to $60,000.

They can receive up to $150

per year, for each child 18 years or younger, or $200 per year for children who are eligible for the federal Child Disability Tax Credit. Eligible families claim the benefit when they file their taxes.

The following are eligible for the Active Families Benefit: Sporting activities that provide exposure, training, or participation in any field of sport in an organized and competitive environ-

ment that requires strategy, physical training and mental preparation.

Recreational activities that provide exposure, training, or participation in any field of recreation designed to refresh, provide satisfaction, entertain and provide physical or mental benefits.

Cultural activities that provide exposure, training, or participation in the field of arts, heritage or multiculturalism.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 13

STARS celebrating 10,000 missions flown

By Sherri Solomko

Freelance Reporter

Since arriving April 30, 2012, STARS officially crossed the milestone of 10,000 missions flown in late December of 2023, just 11 years after arriving in the province.

The STARS website, Mission Records - STARS, outlines where each mission was flown in the provinces it serves, marking 1,018 in Saskatchewan for the 2022-23 fiscal year.

“In Saskatchewan, we operate three helicopters,” says Jonah van Driesum, communications officer for Saskatchewan. “One is permanently stationed at each base, while the third rotates between the bases to ensure there is no gap in service when a helicopter has to undergo maintenance or regular servicing.”

STARS also says between the two bases they have 35 air medical crew (nurses and paramedic); 24 pilots and 23 transport physicians. The two bases are located in Regina and Saskatoon airports. This allows for the faster response time to patients in

need.

“On average, we respond to three missions a day across the province, and approximately 1,000+ missions a year.”

Each base requires $10.5M to operate each year, or $21M for the entire province. Half of that total is provided by the Government of Saskatchewan. The remainder is left to the STARS foundation team, who work throughout the year to raise the additional $10.5M from corporate and community allies. This includes events like Critical Care on the Air radiothon and the Rescue on the Prairies challenge.

“Each mission costs approximately $5,400 dollars, though that fluctuates based on the distance the helicopter has to travel and the specific needs of the patient we are responding to.”

STARS also adds, “Thanks to the support of community members who generously volunteer areas of their property for use in STARS critical care missions. When a designated landing site is not defined, our pilots and Emergency Link Centre will work with

The invaluable service of STARS in Saskatchewan is illustrated by a milestone reached of 10,000 missions flown. | Photo courtesy STARS

first responders and folks on the ground to identify the best landing zone possible. The general requirements are that it is flat and free of obstacles.”

STARS provides training to first responders across the prairies to help manage landing zones for this exact scenario, ensuring the safety of people on the ground and our crew in the helicopter.

It usually takes about

eight minutes from the time a call is accepted to the moment the STARS crews are in the air. Each helicopter has been converted into a flying intensive care unit, staffed by industry-leading medical professionals and equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and equipment. This equipment includes ultrasounds, blood bags and defibrillators, to name a few.

Saskatchewan residents know that their locations may include bumpy roads and STARS provides the best options for dealing with severe spinal and brain injuries where movement can be the patient’s worst enemy.

There are a wide variety of ways community members can help STARS. Community members can donate online at STARS. ca to help fund critical

care missions. In addition, community members can host a fundraising event for STARS, and their team is always happy to help with the planning, promotion and delivery of those events through our community engagement team.

Additionally, they always love to have new volunteers join the STARS team.

“Thanks to Saskatchewanians’ incredible generosity we have been able to save thousands of lives across virtually every community in the province.

Additionally, our partnerships with allies across the province have allowed us to introduce historic innovations, including being the first air ambulance service to carry blood on board in North America. “ STARS maintains their gratitude for ongoing support from communities across Saskatchewan, and with that being said, they also affirm they will continue to work as hard as possible to provide critical care, anywhere, at anytime to the next patient in need, stating, “because who you are, and where you live should never impact your chances of survival.”

Financial stresses putting romance on the rocks?

SASKTODAY.ca Happy Valentine’s Day? Canadian mortgage brokerage 360Lending is questioning whether serious financial stress from increased interest and mortgage rates could be collectively “killing the mood” across the country.

To find out how badly, 360Lending commissioned a survey of 1,000 Canadians from coast to coast and asked some real relationship questions.

Key findings of the survey: 1) Cash is cancelling Cupid: Asked if they would rather skip Valentines’ Day with their partner to save for a mortgage or down payment, a combined 67.3 per cent said they

would. 52.1 per cent said “yes” and 15.2 per cent said “maybe.”

Almost half of Canadians (44.5 per cent) would rather save the money for a down payment on a house or condo than “be in love.”

2) Bad romance?

A combined 52.1 per cent of Canadians say they have chosen to spend less on their romantic partner because of mortgage or rent payments in the past 12 months.

3) Love on the rocks: Asked if higher mortgage or rent payments have negatively affected their love life in the past 12 months, a combined 49.2 per cent of Canadians said yes, (35.2 per cent) or maybe, (14 per cent).

4) Limited engagement:

A whopping 80 per cent of Canadians said they’d rather save the money for a down payment on a home or condo than get married.

5) Interest rate hikes are cancelling Canadian joy: Asked what Canadians have done to afford their mortgage …

- 23.63 per cent said they aren’t travelling.

- 17 per cent said they never go out.

- 10.8 per cent are having no Netflix and Chill – they cancelled streaming services.

- 8.92 per cent are only taking public transit.

- 8.51 per cent aren’t having kids.

- 6.90 per cent are “Living on Kraft Dinner.”

“We”re seeing that higher mortgage rates are 24023JJ0

seriously costing Canadians love, relationships and generally joy,” said Ringo So, Mortgage Agent and Managing Partner of

360Lending.

“The reality is that Canadians have more options than they think. Homeowners need to speak with

a mortgage professional if their monthly mortgage payments are mucking up their lives (romantic and otherwise.)”

24023FF0

Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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OBITUARIES HUARD: Mr. Maurice Huard passed away peacefully at Battlefords Union Hospital on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 with family by his side at the age of 91 years. There will be a private service for Maurice at a later date. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation at Box 1358, North Battleford, SK, S9A 3L8.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Elle Dell Funeral Director.

BOSSAER: Julian Leon January 18, 1929 – Febuary 8, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father Julian Bossaer. He passed away peacefully at Battlefords Union Hospital.

Dad was born on January 18, 1929, in the Highworth district N.E. of North Battleford. He took his education from grades 1 to 10 at Highworth School which was two miles west of their farm. He was the eldest of three children born to Leon and Idalie Bossaer that emigrated from Belgium who have since passed away in 1970 and 1999, respectively. Dad is survived by his two sons: Elmer and Grant; his sister, Marguerite and four grandchildren.

He is pre-deceased by his wife, Mary (Aug 22, 2017) and younger brother, Maurice. Life on the farm during the depression was difficult for raising a family. Farming was poor with drought and low prices for farm commodities. Dad’s family did anything to survive including growing their own vegetables, raising cattle and pigs, picking berries and canning goods for the winter.

Cattle raised at that time were usually sold to the local stockyard or butcher in North Battleford. Dad continued farming with his father until 1964 when the farm was sold. Dad married Mary Anderson on February 27, 1960, and purchased their first home in North Battleford. From this marriage they had two sons: Elmer (Svetlana Bilous) and Grant (Myra). Grant and Myra then blessed Mom and Dad with four grandchildren: Eric, Mitchell, Evan and Jaclyn. Dad worked for Westfair Foods from 1958 to 1981. For a few years during this time, he left Westfair to sell farm equipment. Dad’s first position at Westfair was delivering groceries to stores in the city and Battleford. He went on to grocery picker putting up orders for stores, then to receiver, then salesman covering the Northwest corner of the province. He then became store supervisor for the former Red & White and Lucky Dollar stores. In the final 8 years with Westfair Foods, he was Produce Manager. Dad transitioned to semiretirement as a caretaker for Notre Dame Church and a school bus driver for 11 years until 1993. He continued to do odd carpentry work for other people. Dad, with the assistance of his family including his cousin Octave, renovated a house that was moved to Turtle Lake from North Battleford in 1975. The following year, our family built a new home in North Battleford while Dad maintained his job at the wholesale. He enjoyed relaxing at the cabin at Turtle Lake and pleasant trips to Alberta and British Columbia. Dad and Mom did a fair amount of traveling across Canada and other countries in Europe such as Nederland, Belgium, France, England and Spain and other countries like Morocco, Mexico, Costa Rica and USA. Dad was on the Notre Dame Church council for two terms. He was a third-degree member of the local Knights of Columbus #2094 since 1978 and looked after the hall rental for a number of years. We would like to thank the staff of River Heights Lodge for the care and comfort they gave our father in the last years of his life. Our loving father will be missed by his family and friends. Prayer Service for Julian will be held Friday, February 23, 2024 – 7:00 p.m. and Funeral Mass will take place Saturday, February 24, 2024 – 2:00 p.m. both services being held from Notre Dame de Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, North Battleford, SK with Father Millan Sajonas as officiant. For those unable to attend the services a recording will be posted at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Memorial donations in memory of Julian can be made to the BUH Foundation – Box 1358 North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Vanessa Macnab Funeral Director.

BJERKNESS: Lydia Bjerkness, born May 9, 1943 beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on February 1, 2024, at Battleford’s District Care Centre. Lydia’s love for her family was unwavering, and she will be dearly missed.

Lydia was known for her crack spaghetti, a dish that brought comfort and warmth to many family gatherings, she took great joy in preparing this special dish for her loved ones. Lydia also had a keen eye for a good bargain.

She revelled in the thrill of a great deal, always seeking out the best prices and sharing her trophies with others. On August 1, 1961, Lydia married the love of her life, Leonard Bjerkness. Their union was full of adventure, as they moved around frequently before finally settling back in Battleford, Saskatchewan, when Leonard retired. The couple spent their last years together at Battleford’s District Care Centre.

Lydia’s brother, Fred, and his wife Betty, were pillars of support and love for her in her latter years. Their presence brought solace and comfort to her, as did her faithful and caring nieces, Mona, Melody, Bonita and their mother Marlene. Lydia will also be fondly remembered by the caring staff at BDC, who provided her with exceptional care and compassion. Left to cherish Lydia’s memory are her devoted husband, Leonard, her eldest daughter, Barb Radcliffe, and her partner David Workman. Barb’s sons, Kyle Radcliffe, along with his wife MacKenzie and their children, Zac and Emily and Mack Radcliffe and his children Wren, Oliver and Robbie and Glenn’s wife Shiloh Radcliffe and his children from his first marriage Logan and Brooklyn. Lydia’s youngest daughter, Amanda Westgeest, and her husband Jack Westgeest, Amanda’s sons, James Tribble along with his partner Necha and their daughter Matilda and Chris Tribble and his daughters Maddison and Ariana. Lydia leaves behind siblings, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Lydia was greeted on the other side by her recently departed grandson Glenn Radcliffe, as well as her parents, Gordon and Harriet Wilkie, and her motherin-law, Lilliann Bjerkness. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Lydia. You will be forever loved and eternally missed. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Vanessa Macnab Funeral Director.

HEILAND: Anne Margaret Heiland (Bertsch) of North Battleford, Saskatchewan died a peaceful death on February 10th, 2024 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Born on October 30, 1930 to Stanley and Magdalena Bertsch in Scott, Saskatchewan, Anne lived her life with boundless energy. She spent many hours sewing, crafting and cooking, but of all her passions, spending time with her family was her greatest. When she wasn’t doing things with those she loved, she was dancing. She always had a positive spin on life and found joy in making people laugh. She married Eugene Weiler on Nov.3rd, 1949 in Kerrobert and together they raised 9 children: Jerome (Annette) Weiler of Saskatoon, Sheila (Brian) Rogers of St. Albert, Gary (Karen) Weiler of North Battleford, Lorne (Terry) Weiler of Saskatoon, Sharon (Orlando) Koch of Neilburg, Roger (Val) Weiler of Battleford, Chad (Adeline) Weiler of North Battleford, Lisa Weiler of Saskatoon, and Jill (Aaron) Koch of Saskatoon. After Eugene passed, she married Wilfred Whetter in 1998 and they spent 7 years together. Later she married John Heiland. She was predeceased by her parents: Stanley and Magdalena; her husband, Eugene; her son, Lorne and granddaughter, Christie; her son-inlaw, Brian; her second husband, Wilf and her siblings: Joe, Tilly, Theresa, Tony, Kay, Helen and Stanley. She will be deeply missed by all her children, her 31 grandchildren, 35 greatgrandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Prayers will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, North Battleford on Sunday, February 18, 2024 – 5:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be at St. Joseph’s Church, North Battleford on Monday, February 19, 2024 – 11:00 a.m. Public interment will follow at the Town of Battleford Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Saskatchewan Pro-life or Prairie Springs Care Home. For those unable to attend the services a recording will be posted at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Vanessa Macnab Funeral Director.

MEETINGS

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FUNERAL SERVICES

MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS

That uplift & create unity among people of all Faiths or other beliefs.

A new topic each week with quotes from Baha’i teachings.

Offered by the Baha’i Community of the Battlefords This Week

“FINDING A PATH TOWARDS LASTING PEACE” NB Public Library Board Room Monday, February 19th, 7:15 - 8:30 pm

Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium

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

1332 - 100th St., North Battleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours

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MONDAY MARCH 25TH Livelong Community Hall Supper @ 6:00pm AGM to follow Please RSVP by contacting the branch.

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

IN MEMORIAM

FOR SALE - MISC

LIVESTOCK

Dennis Higgs

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-6491405 to find out how!

Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 year old bulls.

-Adrian Edwards 306-441-0946 Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK

June 27, 1948 February 19, 2023

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons r 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.

Glaslyn Métis Local #75 Members MN-S Constitution Article 7:6

General Assembly/Election Sunday, March 24 2024 Glaslyn Community Hall @ 3pm Positions: President Vice President Secretary / Treasurer

No farewell words were spoken...

No time to say goodbye...

You were gone before we knew it...

Only God knows why...

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Battleford for the year 2024 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the front entry of Town Hall from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on the following days: Monday to Friday February 16th to March 18 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, along with the applicable fee, with: the Assessor, Town of Battleford, Box 40, Battleford, SK SOM OEO, by the 18th day of March 18, 2024. The appeal and appropriate fees must be received at Town Hall by 4:30 pm on March 18, 2024.

Appeal Fees: A) For Residential, Condominium & Agricultural parcels, per assessment roll number: $50.00 B) For Multi-Family & Commercial parcels, per assessment roll number: - $150.00 if assessment is less than 500,000; - $300.00 if assessment is between 500,001 to 1,000,000; - $450.00 if assessment is greater than 1,000,001.

CARD OF THANKS

Loved always, forever missed by your Wife, Jo-Anne, sons, and family

Must Be A Valid Métis NationSaskatchewan Citizenship Card Holder

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll TOWN OF BATTLEFORD

The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 15

Becotte and Pain

families THANK EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers for Dianne.

FOR SALE - MISC PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 49 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.

Thanks to nurses and doctors at BUH and RUH for their care.

HEALTH SERVICES

Nordal Limousin & Angus 2024 Bull Sale. Feb 22 Saskatoon Livestock Sales Saskatoon SK. Offering 50 2 Yr. old Limousin, Black & Red Angus. Catalogue and videos online at dlms.ca. Contact Rob Garner 306 946 7946. Rob Garner Simpson SK.

HEALTH SERVICES FEED & SEED WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX “ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252

MEETINGS

LAND WANTED

Special Meeting of The Members to present the

FINANCIAL STATEMENT on Sunday, Feb. 25th @ 1:00pm @ The North Battleford Golf & C.C. Clubhouse

If you wish to obtain a copy of the financial statement before the meeting please email contact@northbattlefordgolf.com ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society Hi I’m Blueberry!

Hi I’m Joshua!

Dated this 15th day of February 2024.

Landon Chambers CAO/Assessor 2 years 4 months Female. She has 2 years 11 months Male. He has spent 150 days at the shelter! I am a spent 275 days at the shelter! I am bit intimidating when you first meet me a staff favourite and I love to please but I promise I am just as sweet as my people. I am a happy and loving name! If you need a companion who dog, who is always excited to greet gives the best kisses...its me alright! people, and just want some love.

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

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Public Notice Canadian Navigable Waters Act The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways hereby gives notice that a submission has been added to the Common Project Search pursuant to the Canadian Navigable Waters Act described herein and its description.

Pursuant to paragraph 4.1 and 9.1 of the said Act, the Ministry of Highways has deposited with the Ministry of Transport, on the on-line Common Project Search Registry (http://cps.canada.ca) and under the registry number 9279, a description of the following work: Bridge Rehabilitation on Highway 3-18 in, on, over, under, through or across North Saskatchewan River at Deer Creek in front of lot number 53.5234N, 109.6171W, Paradise Hill (approximately 11.5 km east of bridge).

Posted in Regina Saskatchewan, this 14th day of November 2023.

Ministry of Highways

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WANTED

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In the Estate of RENA PATRICIA WEIKLE also known as RENA P. WEIKLE, late of the Town of Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, Deceased.

All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 18th day of March, 2024.

CLEMENTS & SMITH ATTENTION: ROSS A. CLEMENTS Box 440, LLOYDMINSTER SK S9V 0Y4 NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

Notice of Poll and Advance Poll

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a poll has been granted for the election of: Councillors: Town of Town of St. Walburg (2) Advance Poll Thursday, February 29, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM At the Town Office, 134 Main Street, St. Walburg Poll (Election Day) Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Catholic Parish Hall 18 Second Avenue West, St. Walburg.

VOTER IDENTIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED TO VOTE I will declare the result of the election at the St. Walburg Town Office, 134 Main Street, St. Walburg, on the 7th day of March 2024, at the hour of 10:00 a.m.

Dated at St. Walburg, SK, this 6th day of February 2024.

Ron McCullough Returning Officer

Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Last of four charged in KEYANOW CHILD AND Ryan Gatzke’s death to FAMILY CENTRE INC. be sentenced

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITES

Keyanow Child and Family Centre Inc. is seeking applications for highly motivated, resourceful, courteous and compassionate individuals to fill the following positions: Human Resources Unit: Human Resources Clerk: Six (6) month full-time term position. Responsible for all aspects of processing leave for all staff per established policy, completing attendance reconciliations, filing, assisting in all aspects of the recruitment/hiring process.The successful candidate will have grade 12, preferably a diploma or certificate in Human Resources or a combination of education and relevant experience, organizational skills, time management and ability to multi-task. Must be proficient with Excel and Word.

Family Enhancement Unit (FEU): FEU Program Aide Worker: This individual will work with and provide a variety of supports to the family enhancement team. The individual will assist with purchasing for events and activities such as weekly programming, cultural camps, trips and land-based outings; promoting, assisting with and participating in community activities; providing transportation when required; inventory control; following safety regulations and others duties as assigned by the FEU Manager. The successful candidate will have a Grade-12 or combination of education and relevant experience; First Aid/ CPR; Safe Food Handling; strong organizational skills with ability to record keep, ability to multi-task and work independently.

Family Enhancement Worker (FEW) – 2 positions: This individual will work with families experiencing challenges that may put them at risk of becoming involved in the child welfare system and are in need of supportive services. The individual will have a demonstrated knowledge in assessment, care planning, counselling, referral, case management and monitoring; implementing awareness and educational workshops, activities and events; and working with families, children and youth, community groups, volunteers and agencies. The successful candidate will have a BISW or equivalent degree in the human services field and a minimum of three years’ experience working with First Nations families and community.

Successful completion of a certificate or diploma, along with relevant experience will be considered.

Family Support Worker – 2 positions: This position will work collaboratively with the FEW and Family Preservation/Navigator to provide in-home support and guidance to parents in order to create and maintain a safe and stable home environment. The individual will assist the parent in meeting goals and challenges identified within their case plan and may include teaching positive parenting strategies and skills in areas such as meal preparation, house-keeping, nutrition, budgeting, age/stage development, age appropriate discipline, and keep regular records and act as liaison with agency personnel. The position will also require transportation to medical, legal, agency, program and grocery needs.

Adult Outreach Workers: This position will provide community-based prevention, intervention, and support services to adults 18 years and older so as to enhance their quality of life including their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated skill in assessment, counselling, group facilitation, and community engagement, mobilization and development.

Youth Outreach Worker: This position will provide community-based prevention and early intervention services and supports including group programming, individual counseling, school-based and community programming, and community education event for children and youth up to the age of 17 years. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated skill in assessment, counselling, group facilitation, and community engagement, mobilization and development.

Certification in Addictions, Community Development or Youth Care Worker; Community Wellness Worker, Mental Health and Wellness, and/or equivalent will be considered for the Outreach Worker and Family Support Worker positions. Experience is required.

SCHEDULE: The main office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm however, schedules will vary dependent upon work location.

WORK LOCATION: primary locations include main office in North Battleford, Little Pine, and Poundmaker Outreach, and travel to Lucky Man Saskatoon, Regina, Prince Albert and other areas where we have children in care.

SALARY: Competitive salaries; determined upon Education and Experience CLOSING DATE: February 16, 2024 Please submit letter of application, resume with 3 professional references, a clear RCMP Criminal & Vulnerable Sector Record Check, class 5 driver’s license and driver’s abstract to: hr@kcfcentre.com; fax (306) 445-5568 or drop off at 691 – 109th Street, North Battleford, SK ***Only persons selected for interviews will be notified***

By Lisa Joy

SASKTODAY.ca

A young offender found guilty of manslaughter in the death of 27-year-old Ryan Gatzke will be sentenced on May 10 in Battleford Court of King’s Bench.

In January, the young offender agreed to be sentenced as an adult. He can’t be identified due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act. A four-day trial for the young offender, who was 17 at the time of Gatzke’s murder in October 2019, was held in April 2023. Justice Heather MacMillanBrown found him guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter, as well as break

and enter and possession of a firearm contrary to a court-ordered prohibition order.

Senior Crown Prosecutor Jennifer Schmidt is seeking a 10-year prison sentence, whereas defence lawyer Katherine Pocha asked the court to hand down an eight-year prison sentence.

With time-and-half credit for time served while waiting for trial, the young offender will have fiveand-a-half years knocked off his sentence.

Justice MacMillanBrown had reserved her decision and the matter was adjourned to set a sentencing date.

North Battleford Provincial Court previously

heard that an employee at the casino had tipped off Terror Squad street gang members that Gatzke had money and drugs in his home.

SIGA told SASKTODAY in an email that the casino staff member worked at the casino before Gatzke’s murder and after his murder but not the day of the murder. SIGA, however, wouldn’t confirm the name of the employee so SASKTODAY was unable to independently verify this.

After a night out at the casino with his commonlaw wife on Oct. 18, 2019, Gatzke, 27, was fatally shot in an attempted armed robbery.

Continued on Page 18

RCMP investigate suspicious death: body found on Red Pheasant

By Lisa Joy

SASKTODAY.ca

Battlefords RCMP are investigating a suspicious death after human remains were found on Feb. 5 outside a home on Red Pheasant Cree Nation.

The deceased has been identified as 44-year-old Candie Pritchard of Rabbit Lake. Investigators say they are releasing Pritchard’s name to help

further their investigation.

The autopsy and continued police investigation has determined her death is suspicious No charges have been laid and the investigation remains ongoing.

An exhaustive search by RCMP Search and Rescue resulted in additional evidence associated to this investigation being located in a treed area along a road on Red Pheasant Cree Nation.

If anyone has informa-

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

PARK MANAGER Meeting Lake Regional Park is looking to fill the position of Park Manager. This contract position is a great opportunity for a mature and responsible individual or couple. Position would include overseeing the day-to-day operations of the park during its operations season, including the start up and shut down of the park. This would include hiring and scheduling park staff, ensuring staff keep the grounds maintained and working with Cabin owners, seasonal and non seasonal renters to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the park. This contract is an ongoing contract that can be renewed on a yearly basis.

The tentative start date for the manager would be April 1st and they would work until approximately the end of September.

Arrangements for accommodations are possible if a successful applicant does not have a local residence.

To apply to this posting please contact Meeting Lake Regional Park Authority: By email at mlrp@sasktel.net Proposals should be submitted to: Meeting Lake Regional Park Authority, PO Box 40, Rabbit Lake, SK, S0M 0L0 Deadline for receipt of proposal is February 29, 2024 or until a suitable candidate is found.

tion about where and/or when Candie Pritchard was last seen between Jan. 1 and Feb. 5, they are asked to contact Battlefords RCMP at 306-4461720 or call 310-RCMP. The public can also report information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 and they may be eligible for a monetary reward.

This Major Crimes investigation was supported by members from our Police Dog Services, Forensic Identification Services, RCMP Search and Rescue, Battlefords Detachment, Saskatchewan Coroners Service, among others.

More homicide investigations This death is in addition to the other five homicide investigations RCMP are investigating already in 2024.

From Feb. 1 to Feb. 2, Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes were called to investigate homicides in North Battleford, Loon Lake, and Deschambault Lake. On Jan. 29 they were called to Saskatchewan Penitentiary in Prince Albert a homicide. RCMP say charges are pending in another homicide in January.

On Feb. 1, at about 12:45 p.m., Loon Lake RCMP responded to a report of an injured person at a home on Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation. Officers found Dedrick Stick from the Island Lake First Nation (Ministikwan) injured. EMS pronounced him deceased at the scene.

Continued on Page 18

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The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 17

Meota and District News

Guest speaker to share First Nation oral history talk will include a review of the oral folklore passed down through generations of native culture. Much of this history has remained in the oral form only so we should be treated to an interesting evening.

The seniors met Saturday for a fun-filled day of shuffleboard, card games and a delicious luncheon.

The pot-luck lunch is always a highlight as the cooks manage to present their best. The winners of the day were Gorden Klein and Carole Dyck. Second were Stella Reynolds and Wally Mack. Third were David Ottas and Ken Schmidt. The next tournament is March 16.

Bridge winners Tuesday were Barb Mitchel and Bea Prutti. Second were Albert Blais and Etta Miesner and third were Gerry Craig and Sandra

By Eric Callbeck Correspondent

MEOTA — Another beautiful week has gone by with a couple of inches of snow to keep the snowmobilers happy and stop the snow blower from dying of boredom. The seniors held their monthly meeting on Friday chaired by Eric Callbeck after a lengthy absence from his normal duties. The annual trip to Edam to enjoy their hospitality and a sumptuous meal was planned. A guest speaker, Joan Marie Galat, was hired by the consortium of Meota Lakeshore Lions, Meota ADRA, Meota United/ Anglican Church and the Village of Meota. Joan will do her presentation at the community hall Feb. 27 from 6.30 to 8 p.m. She is the author of a few books. Her

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPENING

Lots of variety in this position!

We will train.

• Filling propane cylinders • Chainsaw and small motor repair • Maintaining rental equipment • General cleaning and building maintenance • Mechanical experience is an asset but not a requirement Drivers licence is required Apply in person with resume to:

83 Railway Ave. North Battleford, SK. Phone: 306-445-3534

Winners of the Do Drop In shuffleboard tournament were Gorden Klein and Carole Dyck, Stella Reynolds and Wally Mack and David Ottas and Ken Schmidt. | Photo submitted

Stromberg In Thursday bridge, Margaret Dyck and David Creegan were first. Second were Linda Ard and Albert Blais.

In the B division, Gerry Craig and Mary Phelps had top scores.

Meota Grand Slam of Curling - Week 9 Recap

Seasonal/Full-Time Mower Operator/ Maintenance Employee

General Skills and Abilities - Valid driver’s license - Operate various types of equipment - Willingness to learn - Knowledge of machinery maintenance - Be safety conscious and pay attention to detail - Class 1A would be in asset Duties May Include but not Limited to - Ditch Mowing - Installation of signs and installation maintenance of culverts - Service and maintenance of equipment Submit resume including - Work experience - Education and skills - Certifications - Current drivers abstract - Three references

Mayfair and District News

Speers hosts supper theatre

By Elaine Woloshyn Looks like we are back to winter again. Dear Lord, please keep the white stuff coming.

Deepest Sympathy to former Rabbit Lake resident, Angel (nee Haryung)

who resides in Big River, on the passing of her son Clayton. She lost her dad Doug from Rabbit Lake over a year ago. The funeral is Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. in the Rabbit Lake Community Recreation Hall.

Speers United Church and the local recreation

hall board are sponsoring dinner theatre April 19, 20 and 21. The $50 tickets go on sale on March 1st at 9 a.m. The play is “Homecoming.” Please call Colleen Wicks at 306 2362165 for tickets.

Deepest sympathy to the family of 44-year-old

Employment Opportunity The RM of Turtle River No. 469 is now accepting applications for the positions of Fulltime Maintenance Operating

Foreman

The successful applicants to this position will supervise all public works employees as well as contract crews. Equipment operation and road construction and maintenance will be considered an asset as well as previous management experience. Ensuring that safety regulations and policy are adhered to both while working on roads, municipal infrastructure and in shop. Carrying out assigned duties and following direction of council and administration and the policies of the RM and all duties listed within the Foreman job description of the RM of Turtle River.

The candidate must have well developed interpersonal and motivational skills, be able to take direction, must be able to complete physically demanding work and work independently or as a team.

Preference will be given to applicants that have the following requirements: • Minimum 2 years equipment operator/construction experience • Management Experience • Valid Class 1A license • Mechanical experience

Please submit resume by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 to: RM of Meeting Lake, Box 26, Mayfair, Sask.

S0M 1S0 Fax 306-246-4974 E-mail: rm466@sasktel.net

Please submit a resume stating experience, including a list of all equipment operated, work references and expected wage by February 29, 2024 to: RM of Turtle River No. 469 Box 128 Edam, SK S0M 0V0 phone (306)397-2311 fax (306)397-2346 rm469@sasktel.net

RM offers a comprehensive benefit package, municipal employee pension plan and competitive wages.

We thank all applicants in advance. Only those under consideration will be contacted.

Iverson. Almost a streak, as Johnson defeated Iverson 9-3 for his second win in a row.

Derek Welford put the brakes on his team’s recent losing streak, as his team bested Kirsten Bru 9-7 for their first win of 2024. On the neighboring sheet, Evan Schmidt avenged their loss before Christmas defeating Gil Cadrin 8-3.

Thursday night saw the Lee, Tanya, Ava and Caleb Gansauge team put up eight points and matched Al Collie’s eight in a tie game. Pat Mohr’s team put water on the Colin Mack hot streak, with a dominating 10-1 win. Pat Becotte also had a lopsided win over Randy Orchison 10-2.

Winter Roasted in Speers

The village of Speers enjoyed the beautiful winter weather with a community wiener roast Sunday, Feb. 11. After wind storms this past summer, many trees and branches were broken or cut down and piled up on a vacant lot. It was a perfect opportunity to burn them and turn it into a fun afternoon.

Thanks to the organizers and to everyone who attended. | Photo submitted

Correspondent

RM of Meeting Lake No. 466 is Accepting Applications for

(by Derek Welford) Lonnie Alm found himself in a close match with Randy Sharp Tuesday night. Sharp was up 6-3 late in the game but two big ends from the Alm rink dramatically changed the game’s momentum.

Alm put up four points fol-

lowed by a five-score end resulting in a 12-6 final.

Zane Lacousiere, the legend from Langemeade, continues his strong start to 2024. It was not the start he was hoping for as Lacousiere was down 6-1 through four ends to Colin Sharp and it was appearing to be a quick game. A couple breaks, an inspirational speech from second Marcel Bernier and a strong drawing performance from Dale Howrie helped lead the Lacousiere to a comeback win 8-6.

Another big night for the Wanda Weber team, coming out on top with a 10-3 win over Kyle Doom.

Don Johnson was back behind the broom skipping his team against Randy

Hours will be 7am-5pm Monday- Friday.

Wages will be dependent on experience, skills and education.

Benefits package is offered.

Only applicants granted an interview will be contacted

Candie Pritchard formerly of Rabbit Lake. Most of her children live in rural Rabbit Lake. Some are adults and others are school-aged kids.

A correction on the spelling of a name I put in last week’s paper. The photo caption should have identified Wes Kowalchuk of Saskatoon.

I experienced a 5.3 magnitude earthquake in the early hours of Feb. 12. My trailer shook and I wondered if it was a dream. The next morning a neighbour was asking everyone what we thought this was. Google identified a small town, El Centro California 60 miles from Yuma, Ariz. as the site of an earthquake. Approximately four years ago, at one of our dances on a Friday night, an earthquake occurred and our drinks on the hall tables jiggled and some spilt over. Some were dancing and the large hall dance floor shook.

Some facts on earthquakes worldwide: 118 in the last 24 hours;133 in the past seven days; 178 within the past 30 days; and 996 in the last 365 days.

Deepest sympathy to Dora Brown and Victor Pushee and their spouses on the passing of their sister Dorothy Bachelder of Prince Albert. She is also a sister-in-law to Glen (Sheila ) Bachelder of Mullingar. Both Dora and Victor farm in the Mayfair area.

Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

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sasktoday.ca

Last of four charged in RCMP investigate suspicious death: body Ryan Gatzke’s death found on Red Pheasant Continied from Page 16 Gatzke’s common-law wife Tashina Peters was with him at the time. The couple were engaged and living together. They were expecting their first child. Peters described how helpless she felt the night Gatzke was murdered.

“We were out at the casino for a little bit. We won some money. I think we only won like $1,500 at the casino.

“I just felt so useless because I was six months pregnant and there was nothing I could do,” Peters told SASKTODAY about the attack in a phone interview in January.

During the young offender’s sentencing hearing in January, Schmidt had asked Justice MacMillan-Brown to lift the ban on publication, which she granted. Three other people have already been sentenced in Gatzke’s murder and there was a ban on publica-

tion of the evidence until the last person went through the court system, which is the youth.

In June 2023, Jacob Ballantyne was sentenced to eight years after he pleaded guilty to manslaughter. He was originally charged with second-degree murder.

In February 2023, Isaac Melko was sentenced to 12 years. He was charged with second-degree murder but pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter.

In March 2022, Charles McLean pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to four years in prison.

RCMP found Gatzke in his home in the 100 block of 26 Street West in Battleford on Oct. 18, 2019. He was badly injured and taken to the North Battleford hospital by EMS where he was later declared deceased.

Continued from Page 16 No arrests have been made.

On Feb. 2, at about 10:50 a.m., Deschambault Lake RCMP responded to a serious assault outside a home in Deschambault Lake. Jonathan Custer, 21, was found injured and taken to hospital where he died. Keiffer Robillard from Deschambault Lake was arrested at the scene and charged with seconddegree murder.

On Feb. 2, at about 5:56 p.m., North Battleford RCMP responded

to a shooting at a home on 93rd Street. Jordan Wright, 32, was shot and killed. No arrests have been made.

A week prior to these three murders, Prince Albert RCMP responded at about 10 p.m. on Jan. 29 to the murder of Rocky Meechance, 29.

Six inmates were arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

Three other inmates were charged with the assault of a second inmate, who was taken to hospital with serious inju-

ries.

Saskatchewan RCMP are also investigating a January death they believe is suspicious and say charges are pending after next of kin are notified.

Saskatoon Police Service is already dealing with its first homicide of 2024.

They found a body inside a home in the 600 block of Lisgar Ave. on Feb. 3. They charged Chantal Lee McLaren, 32, with first-degree murder.

Worship Together

ljoy@glaciermedia.ca

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. Fr. Phinh Do

Corner of Scott & Territorial Dirve Sun. 10:30 am Ministries for the whole family

DAILY: Tues., 7 p.m. Wed., Thurs. & Fri. - 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted WEEKEND: Saturdays - 7:30 p.m. Sundays - 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

ANGLICAN PARISH

306-445-5901

St. Paul’s Anglican Church North Battleford Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.

St. George’s Anglican Church Battleford Sunday @ 5:00 p.m.

Watch the Sunday Morning Service on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/battleriverparish Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

Rev. Trevor Malyon Rev. Jan Trost

1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome

Hope Mennonite Fellowship 1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Pastor: Dean Covert

Church Phone 306-445-4181

Notre Dame de Lourdes Church

12th Ave. & 104th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 1S8 PASTOR: Rev. Father Millan Sajonas Office: 306-445-3836 Mass Times: Saturdays: 7:00 pm Sundays: 11:00 am & 5:00 pm (except July & August) Sundays: 9:30 am St. André’s Church Email: notredame.nb@gmail.com • www.notredameparish.ca

902 - 108th Street, North Battleford

Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 10:00 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. Leonid Malkov Phone: 1-306-229-1755

52 - 4th Avenue West Battleford, SK

306-937-3177

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

Third Avenue United Church Rev. Jo-Ann Hills

Sunday Worship Services at 10:45 am

306-445-8171

Live Streaming Available at www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net

Everyone Welcome

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

Sunday Afternoon Service 3:00 p.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

LIVING FAITH Sunday Services 10:30 am CHAPEL

Ukrainian Catholic Parish of All Saints

Battleford United Church

Living Water Ministry

Battlefords Cowboy Church

1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Services 1st & 3rd Thursday of each Month

Pastor FADY FAKHOURY

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m.

PASTOR - Rick Martin

ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S 11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

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

Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am and 6:30 pm Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca

Corner 1611 & 93rd Street, North Battleford

Phone 306-445-9096

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

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Marriage and family counseling is available by appointment.

Regional News-Optimist

sasktoday.ca

The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Page 19

Maidstone and District News

Junior basketball teams wrap up season

Eighteen Maidstone Quilting Squares meet every second Monday in the C.E. Wing from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a day of creativity and fellowship. | Photo submitted

By Kathy Utri

Correspondent

Charles Dwight Schwartz passed away on Jan. 29 in Lloydminster Hospital at the age of 77 years. Charlie was born in Lashburn and grew up in the Eldon district, attending Eldon and Maidstone schools. Charlie is remembered for his wit and sense of humour. Condolences go to his wife, Sylvia and all his family and friends.

A family gathering will be held at a later date.

Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club met Feb. 5 at Waseca Community Centre. The beef project gave a demonstration on making rope halters and the archery project demonstrated archery safety. Congratulations to all members who had last year’s record books compete at regionals: Cloverbuds – Jason Mosher, McKennley Rhinehart; Juniors – Kayden Tuplin (third place), Logan

Gerlinsky; Intermediate – Tristan Blyth (second place), Jayce Myer (third place). Tristan’s book will move on to the provincial competition. The club is hosting a dessert bingo fundraiser Wednesday, Feb. 21 at Maidstone United Church C.E. Wing with the first game starting at 6:30 p.m. MST. Cost is $5 per card which is good for the entire evening. There will also be a small concession available. It’s sure to be a fun evening with some tasty prizes. Communications Day is on Sunday, Feb. 25 at 1 p.m. at Milleton Hall. Please join us for an interesting afternoon of public speaking and sweets afterwards. Our 4-H club is currently running a Little Caesar’s Pizza Kit fundraiser. Contact any member to put your order in. Delivery will be approximately the second week of March. Members extended congratulations to Mary-Ann Carson for

being awarded an honorary life membership in 4-H Canada. Thank you, MaryAnn, for all your time, hard work and dedication to the 4-H program. What a wonderful achievement. (submitted by Logan Gerlinsky) Maidstone Senior Jets lost their first game of the semifinals at home to Neilburg Monarchs 11-3 on Feb. 8. The second game in Neilburg Feb. 9 was another loss 8-1, ending the season for our team. The Jets thank all their fans and the community for their support this year.

In high school basketball, Maidstone’s junior boys won silver in the BRAA League playoffs at Lashburn and went on to NWHSAA District playoffs in Hillmond Feb. 10.

They played three games with a short bench but still finished with a silver medal. Maidstone’s Junior A girls won gold in the BRAA League and went

to NWHSSA Districts in Marshall Feb. 10. In a fastpaced final game, they won silver and Gateway (Meadow Lake) took gold. The team is looking forward to next year with eight players returning and two moving up to senior basketball.

Congratulations to both teams on a fantastic season.

Maidstone Quilting Squares held an interesting and delectable event Feb. 12. About 30 visitors enjoyed angel food cake, whipped cream and strawberries with coffee/tea, and strolled around to look at the three-yard quilts in progress as well as a multitude of completed projects. The door prize was won by Mary-Ellen Foster. The group of 18 quilters meets every second

Monday in the C.E. Wing from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., each bringing along their sewing machine, accessories and material to make their creations, as well as food to enjoy lunch with their co-workers. Many of the quilts are donated to charity. They are also currently working on a beautiful quilt for a Thanksgiving raffle. It will be displayed at Synergy Credit Union when completed with tickets at $2 each.

Feb. 12 was also the sweet 16th birthday of my granddaughter, Saidai Mosher. We Maidstone grandparents (Winnie and Steve Wilder-Gray, Kathy and Doug Utri) took her to Lou’s and Sue’s where we enjoyed royal treatment as usual. Thank you, Matt, for the cheesecake complete

From the Pastor’s Desk

Hymn sing returns in April

By David L. Walker

Turtleford Baptist Church

Our winter is slipping away, but so far it has been favourable. Feb. 11, we had a pancake plus breakfast with 25 present. Although Karla was in Mexico, she made sure everyone received her traditional treat of cinnamon hearts in a baggie.

Following the breakfast, we went right into the morning worship service.

Everyone was fed, physically and spiritually. One thing along with many others that TBC is known for, is families worshipping together. We have more couples than your average church, which is God’s plan and the way it should be.

We welcome everyone.

Please keep in mind, that every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. before the morning

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306.441.1980 306.445.3144

with candle. We can’t believe Saidai is 16!

On Tuesday, Feb. 20 Maidstone United Church is serving up a pancake supper at the C.E. Wing from 5 to 7 p.m. MST. With pancakes, sausages, fried or scrambled eggs, fruit toppings, ice cream and beverages. This is a delicious meal for an awesome deal: adults $10, ages six to 12 $6 and under age sox free.

Other Reminders: Friday, Feb. 23 - Girl Guides youth dance fundraiser at C.E. Wing. 6 to 9:30 p.m. MST Saturday, Feb. 24 - Milleton Hall’s 1920s Murder Mystery Night (age 19+) Wednesday, Feb. 28 Milleton Hall free dance lessons 7 p.m. (every Wednesday until April 3)

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

worship service, we gather in the foyer for coffee and chat. You will find people friendly, and no one feels out of place.

We are one big family.

We are also moving closer to resuming the GGMH hymn sing. Mark April 28 on your calendar. If you have never attended the once-a-month evening of music, why don’t you? Because of so many participants, and because we never have enough time for many house specials, we are not going to limit the gospel singing evening to one hour.

Don’t worry, we will still have a snack and fellowship time in the lower auditorium.

April’s GGMH will offer chilli, a fresh bun and perhaps cake to welcome everyone back. Until next month, remember one good thing about gospel music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.

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Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, February 15, 2024

TICKETS

110

$

.00/EACH

ELIGIBLE FOR 158 DRAWS/YEAR

Every ticket eligible for EVERY DRAW (With the exception of Previous Purchaser Draw) Tickets can be ordered in person at the BUHF Office, BUHF “Gratefully Yours” Gift & Food Shop, (1092-107th Street, North Battleford, SK), by calling 306-446-6652, online at www.buhfoundation.com or in person at Battleford Furniture (192-24th St. W., Battleford, SK - NO DEBIT)

2024-2025

Lottery License LR23-0109

306-446-6652 www.buhfoundation.com

ENRICH LOCAL HEALTHCARE, EMBRACE COMMUNITY WELLNESS, SUPPORT YOUR FOUNDATION!

1000

$

.00

1000

$

.00

Early Bird

Previous Purchaser

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024

FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024

Tickets MUST be purchased by 5:00 pm

Tickets MUST be purchased by 5:00 pm Friday, April 12, 2024 to be eligible.

Must have purchased a ticket in one or more of the last three years to be eligible for the Previous Purchaser Draw.

DRAW

Friday, April 5, 2024 to be eligible.

DRAW

– 13 DRAWS EACH MONTH – 1 DRAW FOR

1000.00

$

1 DRAW FOR

600.00

$

1 DRAW FOR

400.00

$

10 DRAWS FOR

200.00

$

*All draws pertaining to the BUH Foundation Monthly Lottery will be drawn randomly out of the raffle drum *All draws pertaining to the BUH Foundation Monthly Lottery will be made at Battlefords Union Hospital, 1092-107th Street, North Battleford, SK at 10:30 am **All draws will be made on the final Friday of the month, with the exception of Jun, Sep, Nov & Dec

MONTHLY DRAW DATES FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2024 FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2024 FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024** FRIDAY, JULY 26, 2024 FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2024** FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2024 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024** FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024** FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2025 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025 FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025

Final day of the 50/50 Enhancement sales will be Friday, April 19, 2024 at 5:00 pm unless sold out earlier.

Maximum prize value $50,000.

(Minimum $1000 prize) Tickets 1 for $10.00.

Maximum of 10,000 50/50 Enhancements will be sold.

There will be one draw for the 50/50 Enhancement. The draw will occur Friday, April 26, 2024 at 10:30 am.

50/50 Enhancement(s) can only be ordered in conjunction with Lottery ticket(s) order.

Funds raised will purchase a Fujifilm Ultrasound Machine for the use in the ICU at Battlefords Union Hospital.

This device is a valuable tool for physicians working in critical care environments to obtain immediate clinical information, improve patient safety, increase efficiency and decrease complications.

TICKETS GO ON SALE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024

There will be.. WINNERS 158 Why not you?

2024/2025 MONTHLY CASH LOTTERY RULES OF PLAY: ALL DRAWS WILL BE MADE AT BATTLEFORDS UNION HOSPITAL (BUH), 1092 – 107TH STREET, NORTH BATTLEFORD, SK IN THE MAIN LOBBY. ALL DRAWS ARE RANDOM. DRAWS MADE EVERY MONTH ARE AWARDED FROM LOWEST DOLLAR VALUE TO HIGHEST DOLLAR VALUE. DRAWS MADE EVERY MONTH WILL BE MADE AT 10:30 AM ON FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2024; FRIDAY, MAY 31, 2024; FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024; FRIDAY, JULY 26, 2024; FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024; FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2024; FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2024; FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024; FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024; FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2025; FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025; FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025. EARLY BIRD DRAW WILL BE MADE FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2024 AT 10:30AM. PREVIOUS PURCHASER DRAW WILL BE MADE FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024 AT 10:30 AM. THERE IS NO AGE LIMIT TO PURCHASE MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKETS. MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKETS MAY ONLY BE PURCHASED OR SOLD WITHIN SASKATCHEWAN. BUH FOUNDATION WILL HOLD MONTHLY LOTTERY PRIZE(S) THAT ARE UNCLAIMED IN A SECURE LOCATION FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF THE DRAW. IF AT THAT TIME THE PRIZE(S) ARE STILL UNCLAIMED, THE PRIZE(S) SHALL BE DONATED TO A CHARITABLE BENEFICIARY APPROVED BY SLGA. BUH FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS WILL ABIDE BY BUH FOUNDATION’S POLICY REGARDING THE ELIGIBILITY OF BUH FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS IN PURCHASING MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKETS. BUH FOUNDATION STAFF AND THEIR SPOUSES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO PURCHASE MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKETS. EVERY TICKET IS ELIGIBLE FOR EVERY DRAW WITH EXCEPTION OF THE PREVIOUS PURCHASER DRAW. YOU MUST HAVE PURCHASED A TICKET IN ONE OF THE LAST 3 PRIOR YEARS TO BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN THE PREVIOUS PURCHASER DRAW. FINAL DAY OF TICKET SALES WILL BE FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024 AT 5:00 P.M. IF NOT SOLD OUT PRIOR. LOTTERY TICKETS ARE ONE FOR $110.00. TOTAL NUMBER OF TICKETS SOLD IS 1,300. ALL ADVERTISING WILL TAKE PLACE WITHIN SASKATCHEWAN. A PROMINENT NOTICE WILL BE DISPLAYED INDICATING THAT ONLY ONE NAME WILL BE RECORDED ON THE MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKET(S), AND THE PRIZE WILL BE AWARDED TO THAT INDIVIDUAL IDENTIFIED ON THE TICKET(S). BUH FOUNDATION AND SLGA ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DISPUTES WHICH MAY ARISE BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS WHO HAVE PURCHASED TICKETS TOGETHER. A PROMINENT NOTICE WILL BE DISPLAYED INDICATING THAT THERE WILL NOT BE A REFUND FOR LOTTERY TICKET(S) PURCHASED. DISCREPANCIES OCCURING WITH MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKET(S) WINNING TICKET NUMBERS AND VALUES, THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE LOTTERY AUDITOR SHALLED BE DEEMED CORRECT AND FINAL. FORMS OF PAYMENT: CASH, CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER, VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, OR DEBIT CARD. NSF CHEQUES AND DECLINED; ORDER BY FAX: 306-446-6631. THROUGH ONLINE ORDERS AT WWW.BUHFOUNDATION.COM 2024/2025 MONTHLY LOTTERY 50/50 ENHANCEMENT RULES OF PLAY: THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT DRAW WILL BE MADE AT BATTLEFORDS UNION HOSPITAL (BUH), 1092, 107TH ST., NORTH BATTLEFORD, SK. AT 10:30 A.M. THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT DRAW IS RANDOM. THERE IS NO AGE LIMIT TO PURCHASE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S). 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S) MAY ONLY BE PURCHASED OR SOLD WITHIN SASKATCHEWAN. 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S) MUST BE PURCHASED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PURCHASE OF BUH FOUNDATION’S MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKET(S). 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S) ORDERS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE LOTTERY TICKET PURCHASE DATE. BUH FOUNDATION WILL HOLD THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT PRIZE, IF UNCLAIMED, IN A SECURE LOCATION FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT DRAW. IF AT THAT TIME THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT PRIZE IS STILL UNCLAIMED THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT PRIZE SHALL BE DONATED TO A CHARITABLE BENEFICIARY APPROVED BY SLGA. BUH FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND VOLUNTEERS WILL ABIDE BY BUH FOUNDATION’S POLICY REGARDING THE ELIGIBILITY OF BUH FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS IN PURCHASING 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S). BUH FOUNDATION STAFF AND THEIR SPOUSES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO PURCHASE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S). FINAL DAY OF MONTHLY LOTTERY TICKETS AND 50/50 ENHANCEMENT SALES WILL BE FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024 AT 5:00 P.M. IF NOT SOLD OUT PRIOR. THE DRAW DATE FOR THE MONTHLY LOTTERY 50/50 ENHANCEMENT WILL BE ON FRIDAY, APRIL 26, 2024 AT 10:30 A.M. 50/50 ENHANCEMENT IS ONE FOR $10.00. THERE ARE A TOTAL OF 10,000 50/50 ENHANCEMENTS TO BE SOLD. MINIMUM PAYOUT $1000. ALL ADVERTISING WILL TAKE PLACE WITHIN SASKATCHEWAN. A PROMINENT NOTICE WILL BE DISPLAYED INDICATING TO 50/50 ENHANCEMENT PURCHASERS THAT ONLY ONE NAME WILL BE RECORDED ON THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S), AND THE PRIZE WILL BE AWARDED TO THAT INDIVIDUAL IDENTIFIED ON THE 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S). BUH FOUNDATION AND SLGA ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DISPUTES WHICH MAY ARISE BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS WHO HAVE PURCHASED ENHANCEMENT(S) TOGETHER. A PROMINENT NOTICE WILL BE DISPLAYED INDICATING THAT THERE WILL NOT BE A REFUND FOR 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S) PURCHASED. ANY DISCREPANCIES OCCURING WITH 50/50 ENHANCEMENT WINNING NUMBER AND VALUE, THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE LOTTERY AUDITOR SHALLED BE DEEMED CORRECT AND FINAL. NSF CHEQUES AND DECLINED CREDIT CARDS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR ANY PRIZES. FORMS OF PAYMENT: CASH, CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER, VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, OR DEBIT CARD. THROUGHOUT THE LOTTERY 50/50 ENHANCEMENT(S) ARE AVAILABLE AT: BUH FOUNDATION’S “GRATEFULLY YOURS” GIFT & FOOD SHOP, 1092 107TH ST., NORTH BATTLEFORD, SK; BATTLEFORD FURNITURE, 192 24TH ST. W., BATTLEFORD, SK; ORDER BY PHONE: 306-446-6652, 306-446-6658; ORDER BY FAX: 306-446-6631. THROUGH ONLINE ORDERS AT WWW.BUHFOUNDATION.COM