Regional News-Optimist January 21, 2021

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Overestimated and Underdelivered

‘The show must go on’ Staff The Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival will run as scheduled this season after being cancelled last year.

According to Festival Fanfare, written by Kelly Waters and submitted on a regular basis to the NewsOptimist in the runup to the festival, this year’s event may look a little different, as do many events these days.

“With the support of the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association, flexible and safe guidelines have been created for festivals across the province. With safety of participants and the public front of mind, the hope is the local festival will be mostly live and virtual with limited tickets for those who wish to be part of the audience. Recordings may be appropriate for some class entries or depending on circumstances during the dates of the festival,” writes Waters.

Singing and the use of musical instruments and equipment are considered activities with an increased risk of transmission, so the festival will observe the highest safety standards of social distancing and sanitation.

Masks will play an important role.

“Non-medical masks are required at all times during the performance except for musicians playing a woodwind, brass or other instrument operated by breath. Masks may be removed only if participants can maintain a distance of three metres. Vocalists may consider a singer’s mask,” writes Waters.

In addition, in order to adhere to non-essential cross-border travel, only Saskatchewan adjudicators will be hired Waters adds, an adaptation for the Battlefords festival this year is use of the Dekker Center.

“This venue can easily support safety protocols

currently in place or in place at the time of the festival,” she writes.

Live entries, which include all solos as well as duet/small ensemble performances entered by participants who live in the same household, will be heard at the Dekker Centre. Organizers are hoping those performances will be live streamed for more audience access.

Bands and other ensembles that are rehearsing regularly may enter the festival by making a recording in their own venue. Those recordings will be heard by the adjudicator, who will provide a written adjudication as well as a spoken adjudication by Zoom or video.

The entry deadline is Jan. 30 with a late entry date of Feb. 6 along with a late fee.

This year’s Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival dates are April 19 to 28.

See more information inside.

Turning right off 100th Street at the Capitol Theatre corner in North Battleford is tight for cars and SUVs. It’s almost impossible for something bigger, which is why there’s a sign telling drivers not to make the attempt. The truck pictured above held traffic up Friday afternoon, having to back up and sort itself out after trying to unsuccessfully navigate the corner with two trailers. It ended up having to continue along 100th Street. While this was happening, RCMP had the traffic blocked off and pulled the truck over afterwards, no doubt for purposes of a ticket. One of the things that makes the corners so tight in downtown North Battleford is the installation of bulb-outs at the intersections with reconstruction of the streets. See a story about these bulb-outs below.

Photos by Averil Hall

Bulb-outs under the microscope

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The downtown revitalization and action plan was back up for discussion at North Battleford city council Monday evening.

Council heard a presentation from City Planner Ryan Mackrell providing an overview of the work being done. This presentation was in anticipation of what will be the last phase of work on the

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revitalization this summer, with work planned along 102nd Street.

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COVID-19 delays sentencing of man accused of killing Sequin Mooswa

By Lisa Joy Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

Due to COVID-19 there’s still no sentencing date for a North Battleford man accused of killing Sequin Mooswa.

Keenan Mirasty, 22,

was to be sentenced December 2020 in North Battleford Provincial Court but the matter was adjourned to Jan. 18, 2021, to speak to the matter and possibly set a new sentencing date.

On Jan. 18, 2021, however, the matter was adjourned to Feb. 22 when the court

may set a sentencing date.

Four people want to attend the sentencing hearing but due to COVID-19 restrictions on courts, they are currently not able to attend.

Presiding Judge Daniel O’Hanlon said hopefully the courts will be opened up by then.

In March 2020 Mirasty was charged with seconddegree murder. He pleaded guilty, however, to the lesser charge of manslaughter in October 2020.

According to North Battleford RCMP, on March 8, 2020, they got a call to conduct a welfare check

on a 22-year-old woman at a residence on the 1900 block of St. Laurent Drive in North Battleford. They found Mooswa deceased.

A wake and funeral service for Mooswa were held in March 2020 at the Moosomin Band Hall on Moosomin First Nation.

Friends and family remembered her bright smile.

“I always remember her smiling face and bright greetings,” one friend said on a tribute wall for Mooswa. “They were so genuine.”

- With files from John Cairns

Judge tells N.B. man to expect jail time

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A North Battleford man arrested by the RCMP Gang Task Force pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and weapons charges.

Trevor Cummer, 39, entered guilty pleas in North

Battleford Provincial Court Jan. 19 to possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, possession of a knife for a dangerous purpose, and possession of proceeds of crime.

At the federal Crown prosecutor’s request,

Judge Daniel O’Hanlon stayed all charges against Cummer’s co-accused Ashlyn Paules.

Cummer and Paules were arrested after RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in the 700 block of 100 Street in North Battleford in October 2020.

Police say when Cummer

was arrested he had 22 grams of crack cocaine on him, hydromorphone, cash and weapons.

During the search ,police say, they found more evidence of drug trafficking. Paules was arrested at the residence and Cummer was arrested on his way to the residence.

The search warrant came after a drug trafficking investigation the North Battleford RCMP Gang Task Force/Street Enforcement Team began at the end of September 2020.

The Crown told the court they are proceeding by way of Indictment,

instead of the less serious summary conviction.

Judge O’Hanlon told Cummer there, “will be jail” time.

Defence lawyer Jonathan Bodvarson asked the court for a sentencing date of March 9 “so (Cummer) can get his affairs in order.”

Prelims set for two accused in Gatzke murder

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

Preliminary hearings were set in North Battleford Provincial Court for two men accused of killing Ryan Gatzke in 2019.

The hearings for Jacob

Ballantyne, 25, and Isaac Melko, 22, were set on Jan. 13, 2021.

Ballantyne’s hearing will run from Oct. 18 to Oct. 21, 2021, and Melko’s hearing is scheduled for Oct. 25 to Oct. 29. Ballantyne and Melko are charged with second-

degree murder, break and enter with intent to commit an indictable offence, disguise with intent, carry a weapon for the purpose of committing an offence, possession of a firearm without a license, and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

Co-accused Charles McLean, who is charged with manslaughter, break and enter with intent, and a firearms offence, also had an appearance in North Battleford Provincial Court on Jan. 13. His matter, however, was adjourned to March 10 to be spoken to.

All three remain in cus-

tody.

A young offender whose name can’t be released in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act - was charged with second-degree murder, break and enter with intent to commit an indictable offence, disguise with intent, carry a weapon for the purpose of committing an of-

fence, possession of a firearm without a license, and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

Police say in October 2019, an injured twentyseven-year-old Ryan Gatzke was found in a house in Battleford. He was taken to the North Battleford hospital where he was declared deceased.

Alberta man facing trafficking charges gets bail in N.B. court

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

An Alberta man facing drug trafficking charges

was granted bail after a show cause hearing in North Battleford Provincial Court Jan. 15.

Lowen Diehl, 36, will be released after he pays

$10,000 cash bail and a $10,000 surety to the court.

In addition, he must remain at his home in Alberta on 24-hour house arrest.

North Battleford RCMP arrested Diehl on Dec. 7, 2020, after they received a report from a concerned citizen about an erratic driver. Police located the SUV on Highway 16 and arrested Diehl.

When police searched the SUV they found a large amount of Canadian currency, about 15 kg of methamphetamine, about one kg of cocaine, a small amount of fentanyl and one kg of an unidentified substance. Police say the methamphetamine equals about 150,000 individual doses and the cocaine Continued on Page 7

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The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 3

CSO program under review at City Hall

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Big changes could be coming to the work of community safety officers in the future after a wide-ranging presentation before the City of North Battleford’s Planning Committee on Monday.

At the meeting a draft levels of service statement was presented to council, covering the CSO program.

The idea behind the document is to make sure the level of service of the CSOs meets the expectations of the community at large.

According to the memo from Director of Protective Services Lindsay Holm, the goal of this document is “to summarize the types of services being provided by the CSOs, list any constraints, and determine the financial resources required to meet these service levels.”

“Now we’ve got something that sets the bar for our citizens and now we can measure against that, see if we’re meeting that,” Holm said at the meeting.

The document was put together through interviews with staff, several meetings and ride-alongs.

The draft statement is described as a “living document” subject to change.

That draft statement follows up on Holm’s presentation to council during budget deliberations. At that time Holm indicated big changes were needed for the CSO program.

It was promised that a broader discussion of the

CSO program would come up at Planning Committee in January. That was indeed the case Monday, as council heard from the city’s asset management coordinator, Karstin Mitchell, who outlined a full range of findings on levels of services provided by the force.

The findings, according to the presentation, include the following: - The review noted the majority of the CSOs time is spent shuffling between incidents. 60 percent of their time deals with incidents that are bylawrelated with the remaining 40 percent being all other types of enforcement. As Mitchell mentioned, the point of creating the CSOs had been so they could pick up more enforcement of provincial and other initiatives, but they were still doing mostly bylaw.

- Increased communication between CSOs, fire services and other departments was identified as a major focus which will allow for fewer roadblocks.

There has been some increased communication between the CSOs and fire department, and Mitchell said it has to keep up.

- An issue identified was a lack of officer visibility in the downtown core and other prime hotspot hotspot areas, as well as limited youth involvement.

The need was identified to do more daily foot patrols and engagement with the public in schools and elsewhere.

- The CSO building itself on 110th Street is at the end of its life. It in a poor

state of repair with high annual repair costs, and there was bad flooding to the building last year.

- A need was identified for a tiered policing system as the current structure is too broad. The tiers suggested would be, in order, RCMP for the high priority cases, the CSOs for lower priority, followed by bylaw and the commissionaires.

The Levels of Service statement itself included four resident values or customer values: officer visibility especially in the downtown; incident response time; incident resolution quality; and enforcement of the rules.

The potential improvements identified in the draft Levels of Service document include the following: - A new updated building or location, though it was noted the replacement value would run at $1 million; - Moving to two foot patrols in the downtown core and other hotspots per day, ranging from one to two hours each, as well as visits with business owners and the public as a proactive approach - Local school involvement and programs or activities involving youth, multiple times per year; - Departmental and human resource changes to facilitate a larger percent of provincial enforcement versus bylaw enforcement; - Increasing education to residents on property maintenance bylaws; - Having a dedicated commissionaire or bylaw officer for parking related

Councillor Len Taylor, centre, joined in the discussion at Planning Committee on Monday about the draft Levels of Service document for the community safety officers program in the city. Screenshot by John Cairns

tickets, and also for animal control calls; - Increased visibility in downtown and other hotspots to address provincial alcohol and gaming act violations.

The discussion at the meeting identified a wide variety of issues with the way things are done currently. Al Manibal, the city’s CSO unit commander, also took part of the discussion.

The fact that the CSOs were still having to spend so much time on bylaw enforcement was one issue discussed. But there was also a desire expressed around the table to do a better job on bylaw enforcement.

Councillor Len Taylor made clear he believed they were falling behind on bylaw enforcement and pointed to the need to enforce bylaws such as clearing the snow from sidewalks. But the point was also made that such enforcement is in

response to complaints and not necessarily proactive.

Taylor pointed to one day recently when he was walking four blocks around St. Mary School.

“I counted 15 bylaw infractions just as I walked,” said Taylor, such as snow that had never been cleared, vehicles driven over sidewalks, unlicensed vehicles, and so on.

“You’re 100 per cent correct,” Holm responded, adding “that’s why we’re really taking a hard look at our whole process just because some of those things haven’t been able to be achieved.”

Holm said that was another reason why they were looking at a four-tiered model with the RCMP handling the major crimes and the CSOs handling the “middle of the road” situations. He also noted they were looking to utilize local contractors to do some snow removal and boarding up of derelict build-

ings and that has already started.

Councillor Kelli Hawtin liked the multitiered approach and also wanted to see more focus on bylaw enforcement.

“Perhaps right now we’ve tried to put our eggs into the CSO basket and we sort of neglected how important bylaw is for our community.”

She suggested “maybe we need to take a step back” and perhaps use some staff for dedicated CSO duties and other staff specifically to bylaw.

There was also further discussion of the deputy commander position that had received budget approval in December.

That additional position is being created to help address issues downtown, with a focus on building relationships with those stakeholders located downtown.

The indication from City Manager Randy Patrick is it will come back to council to formally approve the position next week.

As for building relationships downtown, Holm acknowledged it is going to take time to build those not only with business owners but other organizations there.

Once they get to that point, “I think we’re going to hit the ground running in that area,” said Holm.

The next step in the process is to refer the levels of service document back to administration for further changes, and eventually bring a finalized document to the full council.

Water meter installation to proceed in 2021

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The installation of new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) - Smart Meters throughout North Battleford was a no-go in 2020 due to the pandemic, but it looks like the project will proceed in 2021.

The firm KTI Limited was contracted to do the installation of the water meters. City council was

given an update Monday on what the plan is for 2021.

According to the report provided to council Monday by Jeff Blanchard, the temporary environmental manager for the city, KTI is set to complete radio frequency base station and antenna installations by the end of the month at the water tower.

A local project manager from KTI will arrive at the

city starting Feb. 1 along with their team, and they will hire people from the local community to work as meter installers.

The installations will then start March 1 and it will be a large undertaking, said Blanchard, with replacement of all 5,400 water meters in the city.

That will go through December.

Blanchard noted that by the time it is done the

system will be able to reduce costs of reading water meters, provide real-time accurate water usage, alert customers of possible water usage concerns, and allow customers to identify leaks and other water problems in their plumbing. It would also create efficiencies for the Waterworks and Finance Department.

A full communications campaign to residents will be rolled out by the end of

the month, including the website launch. For the installation the city will be blocked off into zones of 200-300 houses, and KTI will then hand-deliver mailer pamphlets and door hangers to those, which will include information on how to contact KTI to book an installation.

Residents will then have four weeks to book an appointment but if there is no response, the city will

send a letter by registered mail that water will be shut off. The reason, said Blanchard, is they do not want the project delayed unconditionally due to residents refusing to book.

Blanchard acknowledged COVID-19 remains an ongoing risk to the project getting completed on time, and he said individuals who are at high risk for the virus will be accommodated.

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Page 4 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

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Share your view!

Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223 Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

Letter

Sad for SHNB

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

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

Dear Editor I’d like to take this moment to say that I am truly unhappy with the decision made to knock the old Saskatchewan Hospital down. It was built sometime between 1911-1913 and has been made a place of memories for so many people. My dad has worked there for 39 years and has worked in pretty much every position and place in the hospital. I can’t seem to find very good reasons why it should be knocked down, but I guess it’s because it’s not selling and there’s already a new hospital up and the other one is so old that they’re not sure what to do with it. The thing is I truly feel like they’re moving way too quickly with this decision. That building has all forms of history in it and imagine how many people who are new to the city or even people that live right in North Battleford would come to take a tour of the place. They could have people pay to come in and explore the inside and outside of the buildings and explore the different parts of it. Also imagine the people who spent most of their time there and the people who worked there for many years. That’s another thing that people probably didn’t think a lot about is that the place is so old that it’s a big part of the history in North Battleford. That building is full of experiences and memories and we know it might not seem like a big deal to anyone but when you’ve spent how much of your life in one place it creates such a huge impact and bond that you form with the place. People should start doing less and thinking more before moving on to doing. We’re so quick to jump into things that we don’t really take the time to stop and think “This is history” “Maybe there’s another solution” and “Imagine the people this will impact.”

If this message is out there before they do any kind of damage please give another solution the chance to save not only a building but also history, a home and memories.

Clarissa Gratton North Battleford

Letter

Letter

Unpredictable, yet predictable

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

Dear Editor This is a portion of the verse printed on the Statue of Liberty in the United Sates of America: “ ... Your huddled masses yearning to breath free ... ,” 1886.

“I can’t breath, I can’t breath ... .” 2020 (In the dis-United States for America) Infectious diseases of the body can spread across borders and around the world. A vaccine can be developed for them.

Infectious diseases of the mind can spread across borders and around the world.

What could be a vaccine for them? If there is such, it will have to be developed by each and every individual. I might not like you and what you do, but I do not advocate your destruction and death.

But, perhaps I could change my mind, if you become dangerous.

And so it goes, unpredictable, yet predictable.

Christine Pike Waseca

Regional

A community newspaper published Thursdays Owned & Operated by Prairie Newspaper Group LP a division of GVIC Communications Corp.

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We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

Open Radisson hall Dear Editor To the community: I think we should reopen the Radisson hall because it is good for group gatherings.

People could go there and fix it up and clean it. They could go and just re-do it all, but it definitely should be opened. It doesn’t have to look or be the same, it just should be opened.

Aryanna Porter Radisson

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

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Robert Burns 1759-1796

By R.H. Wood

North Battleford

Scotland’s bard and Mr. Trump both suffered rise and fall in life. In his late twenties Burns was the toast of Edinburgh. His rise was due to his ability in writing and repartee. His fall was due to disastrous life choices, debauchery and immorality, which show in his writings. He died aged 37 physically worn out from rheumatic fever, pleading for money and incapable of fulfilling the onerous requirements of

W

The

ood Pile

his excise officer duties which included riding up to 200 miles a week in all weathers.

A great deal is known

Guest editorial

‘I’m tired’

By Sherri Solomko

How many times have you heard this statement uttered? “I’m tired. We all are.”

Mom always said being tired was a fixable problem. Either get some rest, up your vitamin intake, get some fresh air and exercise, change your diet or find out what is making you tired and work to resolve the problem.

We are tired of bad news. The only solution I know of, and I’ve heard it from dozens of inspirational speakers: “Turn off the news, turn

The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 5

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off your phone.” The bad news will still be out there, but you won’t be tuning into it so much.

We say we are tired of the pandemic and the new term “pandemic fatigue” comes into our vocabulary. But, sadly, it’s not going to change the course just by being tired of it. The best comparison I saw recently was that Anne Frank spent 761 days in an attic hiding for her life in less than 450 square feet. Surely we can stay at home with the luxuries we have.

We say we are tired of restrictions. Yet we

about his life. His father believed in education, his mother was musical and he was tutored and selfeducated and possessed a useful array of academic books and literature.

He could not play any instrument. His poetic skill came from studying several masters including Ferguson (died aged 24) and Allan Ramsay (1686-1758) to whom he refers to in some writings – ”honest Allan.” I have a 1750s collation of Ramsay’s brogue poems I found in Saskatoon, a copy of which Burns had in his can still enjoy outdoors and outdoor activity has taken on a whole new meaning with all of the options we have in Unity.

For the most part, we can still shop where we want.

We can be active, but just in new and creative ways. We have options for connecting that adhere to the health guidelines.

We are tired of wearing masks yet it has been proven the simple unselfish act of wearing a piece of material is helping stop the transmission. I repeat these wise words, “If wearing a mask is the most oppressed you’ve been in your life, then what a privileged life we lead.”

You know who must be tired ‑‑doctors, nurses,

possession. My tattered copy was once owned by William Buchanan Aitken – does anyone recognize this name. These poems are remarkably similar to Burns’ and the frontispiece in Ramsay’s book is the same as in Burns’ famous Kilmarnock publication of 1788. Ramsay died the year before Burns was born.

I have given much thought to why Burns became world famous. The answer has to be that emigrants carried copies of his works with them when they left Scotland – “here, take this and read it on the plane” or “give this to so-and-so when you meet up.” Andrew Carnegie, the

steel magnate, brought a copy of Burns’ work with him when he emigrated.

My wife’s stepmother’s middle name was Burness as was the Burns’ family name before his brother Gilbert and he changed it to Burns – why is not known. Granny Bessie was a strictly religious and narrow-minded individual – the name evoked no pride, curiosity or explanation. I was discouraged from enquiring further!

This year, the worldwide celebrations for Burn’s birthdate on the 25th of this month, will be greatly muted. He will not be forgotten. He spoke to and for the common man and that includes most of

us. Mr. Trump will leave us with nothing. Robert Burns gave the world thoughts, sayings and songs, which have lasted and will last for aye.

medical teams that include respirologists, medical social workers and all health-care team members. They must be tired. Every single hour of every day they are at work they forge on with delivering care to the best of their ability when hospitals are overflowing.

Think what would happen if they throw up their hands and say they are too tired to go on. Would that change your complaint of being too tired to comply with the guidelines set out to protect us all?

You know who else must be tired ‑‑ teachers and school staff. Every day they arrive at school to teach, knowing they may be suddenly converted to online teaching, temporarily or for a longer period. They are going to school knowing they may be exposed, as dozens of schools across the province have had cases.

They are juggling teaching and enforcing pandemic protocol while trying to

remain the upbeat, positive leaders students rely on.

The list of who is tired is endless. If you don’t work in a business or a store, then imagine yourself being there. The routine of constantly cleaning product and surfaces, managing the number of people in a location while managing distancing and ensuring everyone is wearing a mask, all while trying to operate in normal business manner, has to be tiresome.

My mom endured various cancer diagnoses for more than 15 years, one of them at the same time

my sister was in treatment.

Her mandate was “Get up, dress up and show up.”

That is how she survived the daily uncertainty of her condition and the myriad of health changes that evolved over those years.

I never once heard her say she was tired. You know what else she’d say? “I’m not tired of the sunrise or the sunset.”

“Even when you have every right to be tired of everything, never be tired of living.” ‑‑ Terry Mark “Keep smiling. One day life will get tired of upsetting you.” ‑‑ Anonymous

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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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Battleford CAO caught up in Buffalo Narrows election case

By Michael Bramadat-Willcock

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Northern Advocate

Northern Village of Buffalo Narrows Mayor Robert Woods and former chief administrative officer Ash Alam gave conflicting accounts of how a bylaw prohibiting people with criminal records from running in municipal elections came to pass.

Justice Gary Meschishnick quashed the bylaw on Thursday at the Battleford Court of Queen’s Bench in a ruling that also invalidated Nov. 9 elections and ordered that a new one take place on Mar. 24.

The bylaw also prevented people with accounts in arrears from running. It was challenged by former mayoral hopeful Sandra Ericson and Darlene Petit, who had wanted to run for the village council.

Mayor Woods said that he agrees with the verdict but wishes it could have been avoided in the first place. He said he planned to reverse the previous council’s decision to pass the bylaw after receiving legal advice, two weeks prior to the verdict, that it contravened guidelines laid out in the Northern Municipalities Act. “For Buffalo Narrows I think it’s a lesson learned.

But a costly one because they took it through the court system,” Woods said.

Woods said the village must pay half the costs of $7,500 that was awarded to the applicants.

Although Woods had resigned from his position as mayor before the bylaw was passed last summer,

he said that he ran again in November because former mayor Melanie Aubichon and her council were “inexperienced” and things were getting out of control.

“I had resigned because of my differences with council and because of procedures that they weren’t really willing to follow. But I ran this last election and I got in again,” Woods said.

Woods said that as chief administrative officer (CAO) at the time, Ash Alam should have been aware that the bylaw wasn’t legal and told the village council.

“The previous mayor and council decided that they wanted to put in a bylaw that disqualifies certain people from running… and they just continued to pursue it,” Woods said.

“The other council said they didn’t get it either from our CAO of the day, and we didn’t know anything about it until I talked to lawyers. So they sent me the information and we just put a close to it,” Woods said.

Alam, who now works as CAO for Battleford said he doesn’t disagree with the ruling, but the bylaw was ultimately up to the village council. He said he had “no opinion” on the decision at the time.

He also said the Ministry of Government Relations, which administers the Northern Municipalities Act, didn’t oppose the bylaw then, either.

“Government Relations was aware and they did not challenge that at the time. They had the right to challenge it when it was happening. They didn’t do that, they let that happen,”

“Rules and regulations are in place for a reason.

I’m not against any rules and regulation at all.

Ever.” – Ash Alam Alam said. “(But) what the province thinks is correct, is correct. Rules and regulations are in place for a reason. I’m not against any rules and regulation at all. Ever.”

Ministry of Government Relations spokesperson Shaylyn McMahon said in a written response that the province “respects the autonomy of democratically elected municipal governments.”

“Municipalities are responsible for developing municipal bylaws. Citizens have the right to challenge these bylaws in provincial courts, which is what happened in this case,” McMahon said.

“A person can only be disqualified from running for office if the disqualification is addressed in provincial legislation. The Local Government Elections Act, 2015 and The Northern Municipalities Act, 2010 do not include the payment of taxes or utilities, or the existence of a criminal record, as a basis for disqualification.”

She said Government Relations “will continue supporting the

administration of Buffalo Narrows” in holding a new election on March 24.

Alam said Woods is wrong to blame the former mayor and council for the bylaw, and was in favour of it previously.

Woods did pass a bylaw requiring criminal record checks and disclosure for municipal elections candidates, but it didn’t block them from running.

Alam said Mayor Aubichon “had nothing to do” with the bylaw, that there was public support and pressure from the village council for the move at the time.

“It was what people wanted. And then the current mayor, Bobby Woods, was aware of that — all aware of that. And he was in favour of that — totally in favour of that.

Everybody knows that,” Alam said.

He accused the mayor of playing a “blame game” and not taking responsibility for a process that he set in motion.

“To put it very nicely, they don’t do anything legally anyway.

The previous mayor and I had nothing to do with those kinds of things,” Alam

said.

Alam, who is of South Asian origin, also accused the mayor of discrimination and quoted Woods as saying that he would ‘not hire another immigrant.’

Alam said that he left of his own accord about three months before the most recent election and hired a replacement who was dismissed soon after.

Woods said Alam was hired to make sure the municipality followed procedure and simply failed that job. He said the replacement didn’t have enough experience.

“I’m not racist, and I’m not judgmental on this. If they had the qualifications, and the experience and the knowledge of what they’re coming into then it’s okay, because I think they’d be more successful,” Woods said.

Buffalo Narrows is currently without a CAO, which Woods said is because it’s difficult to find qualified applicants who understand northern communities.

“The difficulty with hiring administration for our northern municipalities is that very few people

want to take the position.

And there are very few people trained in our northern communities,” Woods said.

Woods said that he would like to be able to hire locally to fill the “administrative deficit.”

He hopes to train someone out of northern Saskatchewan, who would be committed to the job and happy living in Buffalo Narrows.

He said that getting his community up to date on its accounting and in line with the Northern Municipalities Act is his first priority, but that will take time and the village council needs to be diligent.

“It’s a little bit difficult right now, because the ones that are on there now know the story from the previous council. They’re all gung ho about correcting things.

But the thing is, they want to do it overnight,” Woods said.

“But we’ve got to have legal advice on it, we’ve got to make sure that everything’s in the right place. We’ve got to have factual information before we can even move on things.”

Bulb-outs under the microscope at City Hall Continued from Page 1 including discussion of streetscapes and curb extensions.

The curb extensions, also known as bulb-outs, that have been placed downtown on 100th and 101st Streets have been a source of controversy in the past couple of years, with residents openly questioning whether they will create a safer traffic situation downtown.

There has been particular concerns expressed that the bulb-outs make it more difficult for large vehicles turning at intersections.

Mackrell’s presentation included a lengthy justification for curb extensions downtown.

Those include creating a pedestrian-friendly environment downtown by reducing the distance by half that pedestrians have to walk from sidewalk to sidewalk.

Mackrell also said the curb extensions also help with aligning vehicles into the proper lanes by serving as a physical barrier.

Mackrell also noted the curb extensions make the road feel narrower, and

21014jj0

that in turn will slow vehicles down. This will allow people to feel safer as they walk and make businesses more visible.

“Studies and research show people getting out of their vehicles and walking is critical into developing a successful downtown.

There will be more people walking on our sidewalks and we need to be prepared and built to a proper standard,” said Mackrell.

“Curb extensions are the safest and best design for our downtown.”

Mackrell also cleared

up the “myth” that streets were built to be more narrow than they were before.

That is not true, he said; it is the exact same road dimension as before.

While Mackrell provided a lengthy defence for the placement of curb extensions, he was grilled by new councillor Thomas “Bill” Ironstand on every aspect of the bulb-outs.

Ironstand peppered administration with questions about sight lines and about the solar light bollards on the bulb-outs. “They’re getting run over all the time,” he said.

He also asked about the “extra costs” of cleaning and repairing the roads.

Director of Planning and Development Jennifer Niesink acknowledged those were considered when the plan was adopted. Director of Operations Stewart Schafer said additional equipment was acquired, and they expect to reduce their time cleaning the sidewalks to acceptable levels.

Ironstand made it known he was still against the bulb-outs.

“I honestly felt I was in a car salesman’s room and I was being sold this project. That’s how I personally felt, as you all know and I have said before I am not in favour of the bulb-outs and I never will be.”

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 7

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Another gang unit arrest sees court adjournment

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

Two people arrested by the North Battleford RCMP gang unit were scheduled to elect in court on Jan. 18 how they want to be tried but their matters were adjourned at the request of defence.

Danielle Becker, 36, of Saskatoon, and Tyson Goller, 33, of North Battleford, are now scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on Feb. 22.

The two were arrested Sept. 10 after the RCMP Gang Task Force/Street Enforcement Team raided a residence on the 1300 block of 96 Street in North Battleford.

At the residence police say they found a prohibited handgun, ammunition and other weapons. They also seized about $6,000 in Canadian currency, 276 grams of cocaine, one kg of illicit marijuana, four grams of MDMA and quantities of other unidentified substances believed to be illicit drugs.

Becker and Goller were charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of property over $5,000 obtained by crime, and several firearms offences.

The charges against Becker and Goller haven’t been proven in court.

Anyone with information about drug trafficking, or any other crime in the Battlefords, is urged to call the North Battleford RCMP at 306-446-1720 or Saskatchewan Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Lawyer objects to trial delays for man charged with violent Unity home invasion

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A lawyer for a man held in custody for a year since his arrest for a violent Unity home invasion objected to numerous trial delays.

Trials for Drayden Clinton, 25, were scheduled in 2020 for June, September and then December in North Battleford Provincial Court. They were all adjourned.

“Mr. Clinton has been in custody since last January, almost a year,” said lawyer Tom Stepper who represents Clinton. “The trial was adjourned three times. All the adjournments were opposed by defence.”

Stepper told the court on Jan. 15, 2021, that the continued incarceration of Clinton without being able to get “his day in court is very troubling to defence.”

Judge Kevin Hill said the court is “aware of Mr. Clinton’s situation and con-

tinued incarceration.” He added that once trials and preliminary hearings are able to resume the court will prioritize matters.

“He (Clinton) is remanded at this point by law,” said Judge Hill.

There have been numerous court delays across the province due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier this month, Saskatchewan’s provincial courts suspended most trials, preliminary inquiries, and in-person hearings until Feb. 16 due to the pandemic. In December 2020 the courts suspended most operations until Jan. 16, 2021. In November 2020 the Court postponed jury trials scheduled to begin before the end of the year. The postponement was then extended until March 31, 2021. Jury trials were first suspended in the spring of 2020, at the start of the pandemic. Jury trials resumed in September 2020 at off-site locations.

Clinton was arrested

January 2020 and charged with unlawful confinement, assault with a weapon, uttering death threats, carrying a weapon for a dangerous purpose, wearing a mask in the commission of an offence, possessing ammunition while prohibited, possessing brass knuckles while prohibited, possessing Mace while prohibited, possession of property obtained by crime, break and enter and commit robbery, commit bank card fraud over $5,000 and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

A trial for Clinton’s coaccused, Tenielle Heitt, 31, was scheduled for Feb. 2, 2021. She is charged with unlawful confinement, break and enter, possession of property obtained by crime, uttering threats, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Clinton’s matter will be brought before the North Battleford Provincial Court again on Feb. 10.

Alberta man facing trafficking charges gets bail in N.B. court Continued from Page 2 equals about 1,000 individual doses.

Insp. Tom Beck, the Officer in Charge of North Battleford RCMP Detachment, applauded the diligence of both the members of the public who contacted them and the police officers responding to the call.

“To be blunt, 150,000 doses is a large quantity of drugs to take off the street and keep out of the hands

of some 150,000 potential people,” he said.

“Police officers see first-hand the impacts of drug use. We also know drugs are often laced with other harmful substances that can result in tragedy.

One of the things we can do to prevent these tragedies and other ripple effects from occurring, is to stem the flow of these substances before they trickle into our Saskatchewan

communities and beyond.

The seizure of this quantity of methamphetamine will certainly have a significant, resounding impact.”

Diehl was scheduled to appear in Edmonton Provincial Court on Jan. 19 on other matters and on Feb. 11 in North Battleford Provincial Court on the Saskatchewan charges.

The charges against Diehl haven’t been proven in court.

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Family friendly home on a quiet street in Battleford! This home has had many renovations completed in the last few years. Walking in you will fall in love with the brightness and natural light throughout the main floor! There are a total of 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, the main floor has a sunk in living room that is cozy and perfect for the family to all hang out together. The kitchen has been renovated with bright white cabinets, farm style sink and butcher block countertops. It opens up to the dining room with a bonus little seating area in front of the wood fireplace. There are also patio doors to the side deck and yard and a garden door to the backyard. One of the best features is the amount of storage this home has! Women will definitely appreciate that. Laundry is in the basement but there are hook ups upstairs as well. The lower level also has a good size family room and 2 of the bedrooms are located on this level also. Double attached garage and nicely covered front entrance. Call today for more information!

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Do not miss out on this four season cabin on a leased lot on Donald Crescent in the resort Village of Cochin. This cabin has had many upgrades including new eavestroughs and downspouts, natural gas stove and fireplace, gas BBQ hookup, new tub and shower, and some new flooring and a window. The fridge and stove are new and washer and dryer are included. This cabin offers two bedrooms, kitchen, living room, laundry room and a three piece bath. Cochin offers a public beach, stores, gas stations, and is in between Jackfish and Murray Lakes. Call today for more info.

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Do not miss out on this affordable 10 acre parcel within 15 minutes of North Battleford. This yard site was established since 2012 with a new septic system and underground power from the power pole. The mobile home has an addition giving a total living space of over 1400 square feet. The fridge and stove where new in 2014 and all appliances remain. Some of the items that could be included are an F150 with snow plow, zero turn mower, wood processing equipment, and possibly some of the furniture. This acreage is along the Denholm grid between highway 40 and highway 378 with school bus service to North Battleford. Call today for more info.

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

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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New podcast teams up with Dekker Centre Staff

The Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts is teaming up with Battlefords Untapped for a podcast celebrating the artists in the Battlefords community.

The podcast is called

On Dekk- Presented by Battlefords Untapped, and will be an ongoing series sponsored by the Battlefords and District Community Foundation.

The first podcast will feature Back of the Bus,

The Dekker Centre is teaming up with Battlefords Untapped for a podcast celebrating the artists in the Battlefords community.

with a livestream interview happening at 6:45 p.m. on Jan. 23 on the Dekker Centre stage featuring podcast host Matt Jacques and members of the band to launch the podcast series.

The guests will then play a live-stream-only show at 7:30 p.m. right afterwards.

Back of the Bus is described as a Central Saskatchewan-based band that, according to the Dekker Centre, “offers classic and contemporary folk/Celtic music with Scottish, Irish and East Coast roots. We are very excited to present Back of the Bus ahead of Robbie Burns Day!” Tickets for the live stream can be booked through the Dekker Centre box office. Box Office hours are: Tuesday and Thursday by phone, and

Back of the Bus on Jan. 23 will stream from the Dekker Centre stage featuring On Dekk podcast host Matt Jacques and members of the band. File photo

Wednesday by phone or in person between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.

To access the Dekker

Centre’s Live Stream go to their website: https:// www.dekkercentre.com/ live_streaming.html . You

will be required to enter a password and you will be sent the password 24 hours prior to the show.

A new safe space for interviews and counseling set up at Battlefords Sexual Assault Centre Submitted

“We received some funding and I was thinking of different ways we could use it that would help us to support the community.

What does the community need?”

Executive Director of the Battlefords Sexual Assault Centre, Amber Stewart, had seen the RCMP interview room.

She noted it wasn’t overly inviting and was still located in a policing environment – and not everyone is comfortable being in an RCMP building. Mrs. Stewart had witnessed countless times when victims couldn’t go to the RCMP detachment because they had no one to watch their children.

“I thought maybe if we could cover costs for a new space, we could do something a little bit different to support the community.

I phoned Jason (North Battleford Detachment Operations Officer) and he was 100 per cent in, immediately. I’ve never had a proj-

ect move more quickly; it’s a true partnership between us and the RCMP.” “We’re really encouraged that this new space will break down some of the barriers between police and members of our community who may not always feel comfortable speaking with us,” says S/ Sgt. Jason Teniuk, “Our hope is that this space will eliminate some of the discomfort if they’re in a place where they already feel comfortable.”

A new space; a new, welcoming feel Stewart is hopeful the new space will encourage more people to make a police report after they’ve been assaulted, “We’ve had times where clients come here and they’ve been assaulted, but they don’t want to go to the RCMP. They’re scared, embarrassed, experiencing all sorts of emotions. To have the RCMP come here, and victims knowing they have the support here, will hopefully help people feel safe in sharing their story. Be-

cause our office is located in a house, it could seem like you’re simply going inside for coffee.”

“I commend BSAC for dreaming up this great idea and making it happen. They want to connect victims with supports immediately and the new interview space is going to make our job easier by creating an environment that people feel safe to speak with us in. We want to help victims and this is one more tool in our kit to help us be successful with that,” says Insp. Tom Beck, Officer in Charge of North Battleford RCMP. From January to September 2020, there were 3,711 victims of Intimate Partner Violence reported to the Saskatchewan RCMP (encompassing

the RCMP jurisdiction in the entire province). So far, 2,529 of these files resulted in charges.

Helping all family members A counselor will be present when the RCMP comes to BSAC to use the interview space. Because BSAC is set up inside a residence, there is a welcoming waiting area with books and toys set up for children to use while being supervised by staff or a volunteer. “It eliminates that barrier for moms – we are here to support you.

There are also tools in that space which can assist with child forensic interviews.

It’s a warm, safe environment,” says Stewart.

“It can be difficult for victims to come forward – and that is an understatement. It can be scary speaking with a police officer, whether you’ve interacted with one before or not,” acknowledges S/Sgt. Teniuk.

“We don’t want there to be barriers to victims of crime coming forward. BSAC has really kept the victim

in mind with all aspects of this endeavour.”

Next steps…

“We’re really excited about the impact this will have on the community in being another resource for victims,” says S/Sgt. Teniuk. “This example of partnership and collaboration is at the core of community safety – we all have a common goal and that’s to help people.”

Stewart is hopeful other small communities will see how the space at BSAC works and how it came together easily, “Maybe this is something we can start building on in Saskatchewan. We’re excited to see where we go from here…what’s next on the list.”

What does BSAC do?

BSAC provides free one on one counseling to anyone impacted by sexual or gender-based violence.

This includes victims, family members, or those impacted by vicarious trauma. In addition, BSAC does age-appropriate prevention initiatives.

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Prior to 2020, they did presentations to approximately 3500 youth from pre-K to high school. “Our biggest push is prevention education,” explains Stewart, “Specifically finding programming for boys – there’s not a lot and the focus has always primarily been on educating girls. In one of our North Battleford schools, every male student from grade 8-12 has taken our Go Guys Program.

We’ve learned so much from them.”

The BSAC education programming focuses on consent, healthy relationships, expressing emotions in a healthy way, determining who is a trusted adult and boundaries.

“This fiscal year, we’ve seen an increase in clients,” says Stewart. Her five employees, including one counselor, are up to the task of helping those needing their assistance, no matter the numbers. “I have a really good team,” she stresses, “which makes things easier.”

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2021 festival goes ahead with modifications

By Kelly Waters

Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

In keeping with the famous phrase, “The show must go on!”, the Battleford Kiwanis Music Festival is pleased to announce the festival will run as scheduled this season.

It may look a little different, as do many events these days. With the support of the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association, flexible and safe guidelines have been created for festivals across the province. With safety of participants and the public front of mind, the hope is the local festival will be mostly live and virtual with limited tickets for those who wish to be part of the audience. Recordings may be appropriate for some class entries or depending on circumstances during the dates of the festival.

Public health guidelines have indicated that risk of transmission increases through singing or the use of musical instruments and equipment. Therefore, distancing guidelines for performers, audience, adjudicato, and volunteers will of the highest safety standards. Sanitation will occur between performers. Instruments such as drumsticks/mallets, music stands, costumes, props and other items remain in designated performance area when performing along with limiting movements. Non-medical masks are required at all times during the performance except for musicians playing a woodwind, brass or other instrument operated by breath. Masks may be removed only if participants can maintain a distance of three metres. Vocalists may consider a singer’s mask.

In order to adhere to non-essential cross-border travel, only Saskatchewan

Festival Fanfare Battlefords Kiwanis Musical Festival “It was a way out of poverty. It was a way to success. It was a way to education.

And it was a way to a brighter day for me.” – Little Richard (1932-2020) adjudicators will be hired for live festivals. The stage or performance area will be 14 to 20 feet away from audience and adjudicators.

An adaptation for the Battlefords festival this year is use of the Dekker Center. This venue can easily support safety protocols currently in place or in place at the time of the festival.

Another new opportunity is the Provincial Excellence classes that have been added by SMFA. They are for students in 12 years and under, 14 years and under, and 24 years and under categories. Each performer will record a short program of pieces and provide a spoken introduction and brief program notes. In 2021 there will be first and second place scholarships for all age categories and disciplines. Starting in 2022, the Saskatchewan winners in each group will get to participate in the inaugural Western Canadian Festival. They will join young musicians from British Columbia and Alberta. Let’s hope the 2022 competition can be a live event.

Meanwhile for 2021, we will still need some volunteers. Those who would like to add their name to the list can email l.sander@hotmail.com . Entries can be made online at Music Festival Suite/Battl-

efords Kiwanis Music Festival. The Saskatchewan Music Festival syllabus of classes can be found at the SMFA website. That site has a link to the Battlefords festival entry system.

Entry questions can be directed to jenniehildebrand@hotmail.com. The entry deadline is Jan. 30 with a late entry date of Feb. 6 along with a late fee.

Live entries, which include all solos as well as duet/small ensemble performances entered by participants who live in the same household, will be heard at the Dekker Centre. Organizers are hoping those performances will be live streamed for more audience access .Bands and other ensembles that are rehearsing regularly may enter the festival by making a recording in their own venue. Those recordings will be heard by the adjudicator, who will provide a written adjudication as well as a spoken adjudication by Zoom or video.

This year’s Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival dates are April 19 to 28 (vocal, Monday and Tuesday April 19-20, musical theatre and speech arts, Wednesday and Thursday April 21-22, piano, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday April 23 – 25, strings, Monday April 26, band solos – Tuesday and Wednesday April 27-28

Battleford artist awarded SK Arts grant Submitted Battleford artist Lyndon Tootoosis has received a $16,000 Indigenous Peoples Art and Artists grant from SK Arts to create six large sculptures sharing Indigenous beliefs and customs pertaining to mourning and loss, which are shared with the blessings of his Elders and community.

The Indigenous Peoples Art and Artists program aims to increase access to public funding by Indigenous artists in Sask-

atchewan, either to develop their artistic/cultural practices or to share their art, skills and teachings.

At the most recent grant deadlines, SK Arts awarded funding to 90 individuals and organizations, totaling almost $800,000.

SK Arts funding supports a variety of initiatives, including organizations that provide ongoing programs in the arts, the creative work of professional artists, community art projects and the engagement of professional artists to work in schools with students

and teachers.

Established in 1948, SK Arts is the oldest public arts funder in North America and second oldest in the world after the Arts Council of Great Britain, providing provide grants, programs and services to individuals and groups whose activities have an impact on the arts in Saskatchewan and ensure that opportunities exist for Saskatchewan residents to experience all art forms.

For more information, visit www.sk-arts.ca.

The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 9

Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

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Supporting Strong Communities The latest Charitable Gaming Grants provide $1.3 million to Saskatchewan communities that conduct charitable gaming fundraisers.

This program supplies extra dollars to aid service groups deliver their services in a variety of important sectors including public service, emergency services, health care and recreation.

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Curling season is over for Twin Rivers

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Twin Rivers Curling Club is closing down its curling season.

The curling club’s Board of Directors met Thursday of last week and announced they had made the “difficult decision to close our curling season and begin removal of the ice,” according to the club’s

news release.

The final blow had come on Jan. 12 with news from the province that the existing public health orders would continue until at least Jan. 29.

But other sports organizations such as Saskatchewan Hockey Association have stated that the provincial pause on competitive sports would be in place well beyond

that date, with hockey not likely to resume until late March at the earliest. Earlier on Thursday, CURLSASK announced it had been turned down by the province Jan. 13 in its bid to host curling playdowns in a “bubble” format, and has cancelled its provincial championships.

Without much hope of restrictions being lifted any time soon, the local

curling club’s board has thrown in the towel, after consulting members by email for input over the last couple of days.

“Since the provincially mandated pause on curling began Nov. 27, we had been hopeful that curling would resume, even under the sport’s COVID-19 modified rules of play, at some time in the near future,” the curling club stated in

a release. “It’s become evident this will not be the case and Twin Rivers cannot afford the costs of keeping the ice in without league or event revenue.”

The club expressed gratitude to the sponsors and curlers, and said that Twin Rivers will be considering alternative uses for the facility for the next five to eight months. They will consider proposals

that fall within current Provincial Health Guidelines.

“We look forward to a time when we can again host curling and community events such as our spring Steak and Lobster Supper, Prairieland Curling Camp, CurlSask High Performance Centre, Swing and Slide golf tournament / bonspiel and of course regular league curling.”

SJHL receives provincial help; considers options

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

There hasn’t been much good news this season for the Battlefords North Stars, but they did receive a much needed dose of it on Friday.

That day the Government of Saskatchewan announced funding to support the province’s Western Hockey League teams as well as the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.

The funding is to help the clubs address revenue shortfalls due to COVID-19 restrictions. The province is providing $3 million to the five Saskatchewan

based WHL teams. The SJHL will receive $1 million, which will be provided equally to the league’s 12 member teams including the North Stars.

“Our junior hockey teams are a critical part of the cultural fabric and local economies across the province,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison in a statement. “Necessary restrictions due to COVID-19 have had a significant impact on these leagues and their teams and this support will help them address these financial challenges.”

“The SJHL, which con-

Team Silvernagle out

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Team Silvernagle is not going to represent Saskatchewan at the national Scotties in 2021.

Instead, CURLSASK has appointed the team

of Sherry Anderson out of Saskatoon to represent the province after it announced the cancellations of their provincial playdowns, including the provincial Scotties Women’s Curling Championship, the SaskTel Tankard Men’s

sists of community owned teams, has been in a state of uncertainty due to COVID-19 during the past several months,” SJHL President Bill Chow said in a news release. “The financial support that has been provided by the Saskatchewan Government creates a more positive outlook for our teams.”

In a statement, Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill expressed his support for the funding to the Battlefords North Stars and other junior teams.

“This organization is one that is so vital for the fabric of our community.

We certainly enjoy the

games (and recent playoff runs) but these young men spend a significant amount of time volunteering in our community, especially in our elementary schools.

Looking forward to having this team as part of the Battlefords for many years to come.”

The funding announcement is welcome news to the North Stars organization, which has been struggling financially throughout the pandemic. Back in November, the North Stars went to city council where they requested and were granted a reduced rental rate at the Civic Centre to address the shortfall in rev-

enues this season.

That was granted just prior to the province announcing that play was being suspended under new pandemic restrictions on Nov. 27.

The latest funding from the province came just a few days after the SJHL learned from the province’s Business Response Team that there would be no consideration of a return to play for at least four weeks.

In a news release, the league stated the response from the Business Response Team was “one more challenge the SJHL faces. We are grateful that

our season has not been shut down completely.”

The league states that they have “formed a committee to determine options for our return to play and determine the best scenario for all concerned. Our initial focus is to have our players return to their SJHL communities to continue their training and hockey development as soon as possible.

“There are many factors to consider and first and foremost is the health and safety of our players, staff members, volunteers, and our fans. Details regarding our schedule will be announced at a later date.”

Championship, and Mixed Doubles Championship.

The Regina-based team of Matt Dunstone was also selected on the men’s side, while the team of Mike Armstrong and Ashley Quick were selected on the doubles side.

The selection on the women’s side is controversial to say the least. Robyn

Silvernagle and her team based out of Twin Rivers Curling Club in North Battleford had been provincial champion the last two consecutive seasons, 2019 and 2020.

But the team underwent major roster changes before this season with veterans Stefanie Lawton and Kara Thevenot departing. Only

the skip Silvernagle and Jessie Hunkin returned, with the team picking up Kristen Streifel and Dayna Demers.

According to CURLSASK, the fact that both the women’s and men’s defending champions had roster changes was a major factor in their decision.

Instead, the provincial

representatives were selected based on the performance of teams in a two-season window, which included season end points from the past season combined with points earned this season. The points were calculated based on the current registered lineups of each team.

Continued on Page 12

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The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 11

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Wind gives semi drivers a hard time

By Lorna Pearson

M

eota News

Correspondent

The main topic of weather this past week has been the rain we had Wednesday, between 9 and 10 a.m., followed by snow and winds. We can consider ourselves fortunate in not having it worse, as so many areas did. Wednesday afternoon saw a semi in the ditch north of the city and another jackknifed north of the 13-mile corner, blocking traffic heading south. I haven’t heard of anyone falling with dire

consequences, yet, so we are all being more careful than usual. Many are still getting out for those important healthy walks.

News from my daughter Beth Wynne at Taber, Atla. tells of the fields around that area with green cover crops being eaten off by huge flocks of Canada geese with no

snow geese among them.

A tornado last week blew six big spruce trees over at the golf course and one that blocked the entry to a cul-de-sac. Board fences were laid flat, the roof was blown off a house in town and irrigation lines are tangled like pretzels out in the fields. We saw on TV that the empty semi trucks could not stay upright on the highways. There is still open water and no snow in that area.

The story of Willie Neale was in last week’s paper on the celebration

of his 100th birthday, June 12, so I guess it’s not too late to express congratulations. He is now 100 and one-half. Willie’s son Terry and his wife Paulette are among our card playing buddies in Meota, when we play again.

There will be no more Husky Oil signs at the upgrader at Lloydminster as that company has sold out to Cenovus after being active and prominent in the Saskatchewan oilpatch for 74 years. We will surely miss those familiar signs in every town we pass

through.

In the late 1970s, when our daughter Sally and Norman lived in La Ronge, they gifted us with two beautiful, large pictures of horses, done in the Mexican style of oil paint on velvet background. Growing up our granddaughter Shari loved those pictures, dearly. When I left Chitek these were given back to Sally. They travelled with Sal and Norm on their various moves throughout Alberta until they finally settled in the Carstairs area, on a farmstead. There the

paintings were parted with at a yard sale. Shari has been watching for something similar for years and finally found one that she purchased. She showed it on Facebook and told her story. The lady at Carstairs who had bought the two horse pictures got in touch with her and is giving them to her, free. Shari and her sister, Lori, are driving there next weekend to pick them up and express their appreciation. Shari called me today, so excited she couldn’t believe it was happening.

Farmyard display enjoyed over the holiday season

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

The fabric of our neighbouring country, the United States, was torn apart Jan. 6. So sad to have witnessed it on television.

My heart goes out to all my American friends, regardless of which political party they vote for. We would never want to see such destruction in Ottawa.

Dora and Barry Brown

of Mayfair had a fantastic Christmas light display in their farmyard. An interesting scene was Santa Claus sitting in an old truck and his reindeer in full force pulling this heavy load. Multicoloured

Team Silvernagle out Based on that calculation, both the Anderson and the Dunstone teams came out ahead. There were no roster changes to the Armstrong-Quick team.

Selecting provincial representatives was never the preferred option of CURLSASK, who had hoped to stage provin-

cial playdowns as usual.

In a news release issued Thursday, they reported that their proposal for a provincial “bubble” format was rejected by the Saskatchewan government on Jan. 13. That was one day after the province extended the public health order to Jan. 29.

According to

lights were hanging on many large and small trees, creating a winter wonderland. Dora led guided tours of those who called ahead to view the display.

Members of my family ventured to Tobin Lake to go ice fishing two weekends ago and report catching large fish. Species caught were northern pike, pickerel, perch, sauger and burbot, which look much like eels. Parker, our ten-

year-old grandson, was in seventh heaven taking part and learning new fishing techniques.

Mayfair All Saints Catholic Church recently hosted a 10 a.m. service with the bishop performing the mass.

Albert Thibodeau enjoyed seeing our small congregation as much as we enjoyed his visit. He will retire and at age 75 is waiting for a replacement.

Stay safe.

CURLSASK, “all options for any form of competition to declare our representatives have been exhausted.”

The Saskatchewan representatives now head to Calgary to represent the province in the Curling Canada “bubble” which will hold the Scotties, Brier and Mixed Doubles championships.

Team Silvernagle issued this statement posted

on Twitter: “We would like to take this opportunity to extend our well wishes and congratulations to Team Sherry Anderson.

We know that you will be great representatives going forward into the national Scotties event in Calgary.

“This has been a very challenging year for CURLSASK navigating through a pandemic and we thank you for going

A common blue jay, which stays all winter in the north and sometimes in the prairie region, enjoys a feed and a rest at a bird feeder. They are tough birds to survive a Canadian winter. Photo

by Elaine Woloshyn

above and beyond during this challenging time. Your efforts and hard work did not go unnoticed.

“We are all Team Sask and we will be cheering hard as per usual!”

As for Team Silvernagle, despite the CURLSASK announcement, their Scotties hopes might not yet be totally dashed.

There is a possibility the team could potentially still be invited to go to Calgary as one of the “wild card” entries.

It was announced last week by Curling Canada that the number of wild card entries for the Scotties and Brier has been expanded to three teams instead of just one.

21014ss0

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CIRCLE T

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west Sask

Free North

Tourist

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ATTENTION NORTHWEST SASKATCHEWAN! We are gathering information and advertising for our 2021 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 26, 2021

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The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 13

Second Front

Canadian COVID-19 agency is out for blood

By Peter Jackson

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / The Telegram

If you’re a diabetic, you probably know what it’s like to prick your finger to get a blood sugar reading.

If you’re not, Canada may be calling you to let a little blood as a civic duty.

The COVID-19 Immunity Task Force recently rolled out its latest wave of antibody home test kits in its effort to map the prevalence of COVID-19 in the country.

This past few weeks, 22,000 of the test kits were mailed to randomly selected Canadians. That’s in addition to 4,000 that were sent before Christmas.

In total, 48,000 test kits will be distributed, and Newfoundland and Labrador’s share of that will be almost 3,600.

Dr. Catherine Hankins, chair of the task force, says she hopes people realize the service they’re providing by participating.

“There are two big reasons to participate,” she said this week. “One is you’re being called to serve,

in a sense — to serve your province and your country by helping gather information that’s going to be useful to decision-makers … but also, you get to learn your own result, and I can tell you a lot of people are curious.”

However, you can’t volunteer to do the test unless you’ve received a kit.

The daily count of COVID-19 cases that appears in the news only tallies those who have tested positive for the disease through PCR testing. That’s a genetic test that can detect even the smallest amount of virus in a person’s airways.

An antibody test is different. It detects the cells a person’s body creates to combat the virus. They can linger for months, or even a year or more, long after a person has recovered.

They will also be there even if a person didn’t know they had the disease.

Homegrown test One advantage of the Canadian-made test the task force is using is that it can detect the difference between the antibodies that occur naturally to fight vi-

These are the contents of the COVID-19 antibody home test kits, should you receive one. Photo submitted

ral infection, and those that are induced by a vaccine.

Commercially produced tests have not been able to do that until now.

Michael Grant, an immunologist at Memorial University in St. John’s, says tests they conducted last year did not have that capability.

In his study, Grant said, they recruited people who had COVID-19 or thought

they might have it or been exposed to it.

Out of 160 volunteers, they found only two cases of people who tested negative for the coronavirus but actually had the antibodies.

One of them was someone who had quarantined during a cruise, and tested negative when they got back.

However, Grant says he was encouraged by the fact some people still had

antibodies in their system several months after being exposed.

“It would suggest to me that the (infection) immunity is going to last at least as long as the vaccinebased immunity,” he said.

“That’s all we can say so far, because it hasn’t been that long a time.”

Grant said the task force study will offer some important insights, and may

even help inform who is best to vaccinate after the high-priority groups are covered.

“Right now, the public health approach is that everyone should get the vaccine,” he said.

But he adds that 48,000 tests will only tell so much.

“They would have to get out a lot in order to cover the entire country and be able to get an accurate idea of prevalence in different regions,” he said.

Hankins agrees the sample size won’t give a clear picture of specific regions of a given province, and tests aren’t being distributed to Indigenous reservations, military facilities or prisons.

But the algorithm used

by Statistics Canada ensures a representative cross-section of age and gender.

That’s why she is hoping for a high participation rate.

“You’re representing not just yourself,” she tells test recipients, “but everybody else your age, your sex and your province, so you’re really important.”

SIMSA to hold energy update March 24, with optimism for the oilpatch this summer

By Brian Zinchuk

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Estevan Mercury

Like almost every other public event since COVID-19 hit in March, 2020, the Saskatchewan Industrial & Mining Suppliers Association Inc. (SIMSA) had to put off its regular October Oil & Gas Supply Chain Forum. But now SIMSA is back at it, going virtual with an event to be held on March 24.

Eric Anderson, executive director of SIMSA, said from Saskatoon on Jan. 18, “We’re going in the end of March. We’re calling it Saskatchewan Suppliers’ Energy Update.”

Social distancing requirements mean things like the speed networking and in-person networking will not be able to take place, but this event will

still seek to get information to its participants, according to Anderson.

Eric Nuttal, partner and senior Portfolio Manager with Ninepoint Partners LP, is the keynote speaker. He recently spoke in a similar event held by the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors, providing a positive outlook for the oilpatch.

Anderson noted that there’s a little broader focus, including things like lithium and hydrogen.

All of those are being developed with oilfield services.

The one-day online event will have speakers from oil producer Crescent Point Energy Corp., pipeline company TC Energy, refiner Federated Co-operative Limited, geothermal pioneer Deep Earth Energy Production, SaskEnergy,

Prairie Lithium/LiEP Energy, Royal Helium, new micro-refinery Independent Energy Corporation, SaskPower on its Moose Jaw power plant, and hydrogen developer Proton Technologies.

Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre will also be speaking.

The Government of Saskatchewan partners on these events.

Anderson spoke of optimism of things turning around, and is currently planning on hosting its regular event in Regina this October.

“That’s provided the COVID vaccines roll out, and provided they work.

There are a lot of ifs there, but I think we all know what they are. If things change, things change the positive way. We all hope they do.

Minister of Energy and Resources Bronwyn Eyre will be speaking to a webcam instead of a podium, but SIMSA will be holding its “Saskatchewan Suppliers’ Energy Update” on March 24. File photo by Brian Zinchuk, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

“Eventually, as the vaccines roll out, planes are going to start flying around, cars are going start

driving around and the demand will return,” Anderson said.

On the supply side, he

expects this summer there will be a need to build up inventory, and drilling will start again.

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

Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

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OBITUARIES Grant: Marie Joyce (Cooper) Grant passed peacefully on December 13, 2020, at the age of 94, at Lady Minto Hospital in Edam. Marie was born on New Years Day, 1926. to Charles and Susan Cooper, she had 7 siblings. In 1947 she married Dave Grant, and with strength, courage and commitment they farmed together for the next 69 years until Dave’s passing in 2017.

Mom devoted her life to family, raised 3 daughters, several grandkids, and a few “strays”, she always said “everybody needs a home” and she proved it by welcoming anybody into her home for as long as they wanted to stay, she packed school lunches for 60 years ! Mom loved to curl, bowl, play bingo, and scrapbook. She always wanted to be a nurse, she never achieved that goal, but she certainly did a lot of “nursing people” in her lifetime. Marie was a very creative person, and made wonderful costumes and birthday parties, and always had a cup of tea ready. Marie is survived by her daughters Lois and Debra, Grandchildren - Jodi Grant, Kelly Macdonald, Nikki (Chad) Macmaloff, Darci Preston, Tyler Preston, John (Apryl) Grant, Mark (Kim) Mcfarlane, Corey Mcfarlane, Debbie (Rylea) Eggeson, 9 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Dave, daughter Doreen, granddaughter Casey. Marie was laid to rest at the family plot in Edam Cemetery on December 16, special thanks to Joyce Wall for presiding over the service and to the staff at Lady Minto for exceptional care. __________________________________________________ OMELCHENKO: Theodore Jacob Omelchenko. 19352021 (age 85) It is with great sadness that the Family of Theo Omelchenko, announce, that after a courageous battle with cancer, he peacefully passed away with his wife Chris at his side, on Tuesday January 12, 2021. Theo was born April 24, 1935 in North Battleford to Peter and Mary Omelchenko. After his Father passed and at the age of 16 Theo started to run the family farm. He was always quick to help out family or a neighbor, or challenge them to a crib game, with a little smile. Putting long hours on a tractor or working on machinery was something he just loved to do. The farm life was his ‘happy place’ and worked on it until just recently. In July of 2019 he had major heart surgery, then In June of 2020 he found out he had Cancer. In November of 2020 he battled and beat covid. Left to cherish his memory: his beloved wife of 61 years Christina, their Son: Rick (Kim) Omelchenko, grandchildren: Tessa-Rae (Jared) Nedelec; Cole Omelchenko, Son: Rocky (Sharon) Omelchenko, grandson: TJ Omelchenko, and relatives, friends and neighbors.

Predeceased by his parents: Peter and Mary Omelchenko, Brothers: William O’Mell, Mike (Mary) Omelchenko, and Paul (Celia) Omell, Sisters: Vera (George) Dectrow, Olga (John) MacDonald, Father and Mother In-law: William (Nettie) Dirksen, Brothers-in-law: Everett Dirksen and Carl Jacobson. A Private Graveside Service was held at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery on Monday, January 18, 2021. Pallbearers: TessaRae Nedelec, Jared Nedelec, Cole Omelchenko and TJ Omelchenko. Honorary Pallbearers: Jack Westwood, Henry Farness, Stan Chomey, Garth Link and Gary Wright. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations in memory of Theo Omelchenko can be made to the Battlefords Humane Society, Box 645, North Battleford, SK, S9A 2Y7. (Dad loved his Dogs and Cats) Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

CARD OF THANKS The family of Theodore Jacob Omelchenko would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the shared memories, donations, flowers, food, cards and messages. A special thank you to Jeff Arndt for the music. Thank you to the East and South side staff at River Heights Lodge for your kind and compassionate care. Thank you to Trevor and staff at Eternal Memories Funeral Service for your compassion and guidance during this difficult time.

FOR SALE - MISC

NICODEMO: In loving memory of Dorothy Nicodemo (nee Blackford), born January 3, 1929 at Cardiff Wales, passed away January 12, 2021 in Battleford SK. Left to cherish her children; Daughter: Diane Knox (Wally) Children: Bobby MacDougall (Tracy) - Jyelle, Kent Knox (Jolene) - Landon, Mason; Rae Goodwin (Terry) - Kale, Liam and Alli; Son: Paul Nicodemo (Nadia) Children: Krystin Mattacchione (Robert Russo) Lucas, Caitlin Nicodemo (Mark Costain), Julia Nicodemo, Mathew Arnone (Alessia Pignotti); Her best friend and Sister: Gwladys Martin and numerous beautiful nieces and nephews. Predeceased by: Her loving husband and best friend of over 65 years; William (Bill) Norman Nicodemo; Her parents: Albert and Mable (nee Morgan) Blackford; In-laws: Guerino and Teresa (nee Della Bianca) Nicodemo; Grandson: Jason Arnone; Sisters: Elda Bertoia and Mary Nicodemo; Sisterin-law(s): Janet Park and Megan Rutledge; Brother-in-law(s): Settimo Bertoia, Jim Martin and Don Park. A private graveside service was held at Prairie Willow Columbaria - City Cemetery on Saturday, January 16, 2021 with Reverend Dexter van Dyke officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Third Avenue United Church, 1301 - 102nd Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 1G4 or Battlefords District Care Centre (designate to the recreation department or 3rd floor), Box 69, Battleford, SK S0M 0E0.

Condolences can be sent to www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements were entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

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Like Falling leaves the years go by But love and memories never die No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts they are ever there.

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— LOVINGLY REMEMBERED

BY YOUR FAMILY

In Memory

Hilda Selma Hamp December 17, 1935 January 13, 2019

Two years have passed since that sad day, When the one we loved was called away.

We little knew that day, God was going to call your name, In life we loved you dearly, In death, we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you.

You did not go alone.

For part of us went with you, The day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide.

And although we cannot see you, You are always at our side.

Our Family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.

All our love forever, Erwin Elly, Tyler, Lori, Darren, Kasandra, Mitchell. Jason & Joanne, Spencer, Alana

Regional News-Optimist BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

BUSINESS SERVICES

FARM SERVICES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF: Late Betty Sharron LaClare of Edam, Saskatchewan Passed away: December 22, 2020 All claims against the estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 29 day of January, 2021.

MIGNEAULT LAW OFFICE Barristers & Solicitors 1391 - 101st Street, P.O. Box 520 North Battleford, Saskatchewan, S9A 2Y8 C/O Monte Migneault

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

306-445-7261

IN THE ESTATE OF KASPER RALPH BACHMAN LATE OF WILKIE, IN THE PROVINCE OF 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 19th day of February, 2021.

Battle River Law Barristers & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102 Street Box 905 North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Estate of Kasper Ralph Bachman

www.primrosechateau.ca

CARD OF THANKS

The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 invites expressions of interest for the supplying of approximately 20,000 cubic yards of 7/8 inch road gravel to be delivered to the municipal shop yard or to a location to be determined by council along Highway 378 located within the R.M. of North Battleford No. 437.

Sasky Sons Contracting General Contracting & Complete Renovations including flood restorations.

For more information please call: Darby O'Grady (306)-490-2022 Mike Bjerkness (306)-480-8801

Interested parties shall submit the expressions of interest including the following:

COMING EVENTS

Sharing Grief’s Journey From Mourning To Joy New Sessions start Monday, Jan 25, 2021 For more information and for pre-registration please call

Sue 306-441-5441 or Denise 306-441-3338 ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society Hi everyone, I’m Maestro!

Hi I’m Oscar!

• Unit prices per cubic yard for the gravel • Confirmation that the gravel will be made available as soon as possible in Spring of 2021.

The expressions of interest must be received at the office of the undersigned (in a sealed envelope) no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 9th day of February 2021. The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 reserves the right to refuse any and/or all of the expressions of interest.

Dated this 17th day of December 2020 in North Battleford, Sask.

Debbie Arsenault, Administrator R.M. of North Battleford No.437 Box 187, North Battleford, Sask.

S9A 2Y1 rm437@sasktel.net Phone: 306-445-3604 Fax: 306-445-3694

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468

Public Notice of a Subdivision for Intended Discretionary Use I’m a pretty easy going guy. I’m not one of those crazy kittens who loves to get into trouble. If anything, I’m more of a hide n seek guy, I like to squeeze into enclosed or small spaces, brings me comfort, makes me feel all warm n safe, sorta like a hug, yknow?

This is my first Christmas and I spent it with all my friends here at the shelter I’m hoping next Christmas I might be able to spend it with you! I am a super sweet guy who loves to rub against the hoomans here.

Call the Animal Shelter 306.446.2700 The family of the late Sarah Ann Beaudoin thanks you and are so appreciative of the food trays, cards, phone calls, donations and comments on Sarah’s life.

Thank you to the staff of River Heights Lodge for Mother’s great care over the last 4 years.

We extend our thanks to Dr. Campbell for her kind and compassionate care.

Thank you to Joyce Salie for officiating at the Funeral Service.

Thank you also to Robert Mackay and staff of Eternal Memories Funeral Service for their compassion and care.

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT

Primrose Chateau Residents of Primrose Chateau continue living independently; doing the things they love, while we provide the support to make it possible.

During this time of isolation being in a safe environment with full services such as meals and social activities is very important for your health and well being.

Please call to discover how our home can become your home.

Atria Retirement Canada Sandy 306-850-1499

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

Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 55 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, that the RM of Meota No. 468 has received an application of proposed subdivision for a discretionary use. The application includes the creation of one (1) parcel for the intended use of a Public Utility (Transfer Station), within the SW 1/2 Section 13-48-17-W3M (LSD 4 & 5), represented by the proposed Parcel A, as shown on the accompanying plan. The proposed subdivision is located within the A1 – Agricultural Zoning District, and the proposed use is at the discretion of Council as per subclause 5.2.6 h) of the RM of Meota Zoning Bylaw No. 02-2011.

FUNERAL SERVICES

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

Trevor Watts - Owner/Director Robert Mackay - Director Vanessa Macnab - Apprentice Funeral Director Funerals | Burials | Cremation | Preplannig WE ARE LOCALLY AND FAMILY OWNED

Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Council will consider this application at the regular scheduled Council meeting on Wednesday, February 3, 2021, at 1:00 pm in the RM of Meota office. If you wish to speak or be present at the meeting please contact the RM Administrator, Kirk Morrison at cao@rmmeota468.ca to arrange for teleconference. If you wish to comment on this proposal, please do so in writing prior to Friday, January 29, 2021, to Box 80, Meota, SK, S0M IX0 or by email to info468@sasktel.net or yvonne@northboundplanning.ca. For additional information please contact the Municipal Planner at (306) 397-1000 or at yvonne@northboundplanning.ca.

S. Yvonne Prusak, BASc, MA, MCIP, RPP Municipal Planner January 15, 2021

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CALL 306-445-7261

Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

Rural Municipality of Parkdale No. 498

PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Parkdale No. 498 intends to adopt Bylaw 01-21,a Bylaw to provide for the Sale of Dedicated Landsunder The Planning and Development Act, 2007.

Intent: To sell the affected land at fair market value.

Affected Land: Block R Plan AG3891 Ext 0

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

FEED & SEED

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA No. 468 PUBLIC NOTICE OF DISCRETIONARY USE DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 2.4 of the RM of Meota No. 468 Zoning Bylaw the municipality has received an application for a discretionary use development permit application. The application includes the placement of a dock and boat lift on St/L 12, Plan J1573 – in Lakeview. This is currently permitted as a discretionary use in the Lakeshore Residential 1 District – Section 9.2.1 (c) of Bylaw 02/2011 known as the Zoning Bylaw.

Council will consider this application at the regular scheduled Council meeting on February 3, 2021 at 1:30 pm in the RM of Meota office.

Please contact the RM office if you wish to attend via teleconference. If you wish to comment on these proposals, please do so in writing prior to Friday, January 29, 2021 to the RM of Meota No. 468, Box 80, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. For additional information please contact (306) 397-1000 or at yvonne@northboundplanning.ca.

AUCTIONS

Yvonne Prusak, BASc, MA, MCIP, RPP Municipal Planner/Development Officer January 19, 2021 FEED & SEED

Reason The reason for the bylaw is to gain Ministerial approval to sell a municipal reserve site as requested by the recipient.

FEED & SEED

newsoptimist.ca

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

Public Inspection Any person may inspect the bylaw and map at the R.M. of Parkdale No. 498 office, located at 171 Railway Avenue, Glaslyn, SK, during the hours of 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. Copies will be available to the public at a cost, or by emailing the administrator at rm498@sasktel.net Public Hearing Council will hold a public hearing at 10:00am on Wednesday February 10, 2021 to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, written comments are encouraged, however, Council will consider all forms of comments received on or before February 10, 2021. If any person wishes to attend the meeting please contact the office at 306-342-2015.

Issued by the Rural Municipality of Parkdale No. 498, this 14th day of January, 2021.

Ashela McCullough Acting Administrator

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

your news all the time and online CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

North West College

Full-Time, Permanent Administrative Assistant, External Development and Corporate Services Battlefords Campus

Posting #61-BC-2021 Reporting to the Manager, External Development & Corporate Services this position provides administrative support to the External Development & Corporate Services department.

Apply to this position if you enjoy a faced paced environment that promotes creativity and have an interest in supporting designing and development marketing media.

The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 invites expressions of interest for the crushing of approximately 20,000 yards of 7/8 inch road gravel for the year 2021.

Compensation: $23.23 per hour, with an excellent benefits package Start Date: February 16, 2021

Interested parties shall submit the expressions of interest including the following:

For a complete position profile, and application, visit www.northwestcollege.ca

• Unit prices per cubic yard for the crushing • A list of equipment and machinery (with proper pricing) guaranteed to be made available and used for the purpose of completing the work in a timely and workmanship manner.

• Agrees that an R.M. representative must confirm and record the hours on any equipment that may be used in the crushing process before commencing work and will be verified again upon completion • Proof of insurance and workers compensation coverage • Confirmation that the crushing of gravel will commence as soon as possible 2021 with crushing to be continuous until completed Please note: • Contractor must be prepared to move locations within the pit as determined by the R.M., cost will be the contractors responsibility • Cat work and stripping will be completed by the R.M. • Gravel samples will be randomly checked to determine quality and consistency to ensure they meet R.M. specifications • A Memo of Understanding is to be signed by all parties before any work commences • Payment will be made after gravel piles have been measured and confirmed by an outside source.

The expressions of interest must be received (in a sealed envelope) at the office of the undersigned no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 9th day of February 2021.

The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 reserves the right to refuse any and/or all of the expressions of interest.

Dated this 17th day of December 2020 in North Battleford, Sask.

Debbie Arsenault, Administrator R.M. of North Battleford No.437 Box 187, North Battleford, Sask.

S9A 2Y1 Phone: 306-445-3604 Fax:306-445-3694 rm437@sasktel.net

Applications will be received until Noon on January 27, 2021.

NWC thanks all those who applied, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

www.northwestcollege.ca

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The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 17

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Kanaweyimik is an independent, non-political child welfare agency providing child welfare and family services to five First Nations. Moosomin, Mosquito, Red Pheasant, Saulteaux & Sweetgrass First Nations contract for services with Kanaweyimik.

KANAWEYIMIK CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES INC.

The following is a general description of a Supervisor position.

Salary will be commensurate with experience, training and education. This is a fulltime, permanent position.

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

Job Description

SERVICES

THERAPIST/COUNSELLOR POSITION 1.0 General Description

• The Supervisor isFull-Time directly responsible to the Executive Director of Kanaweyimik.

• The Supervisor is responsible for supervising the Prevention Program and employees in prevention Kanaweyimik is offering a full-time therapist/counsellor position within a unique, exciting and newly established program. counselling program. We provide a multi-disciplinary, holistic, • The Supervisor will comply with provisions of the Kanaweyimik Personnel Manual as it exists from therapeutic treatment service to individuals and families who to time.violence and abuse. Our program uses havetime experienced both Western therapeutic and Aboriginal cultural perspectives.

2.0 Duties Related to Supervision Extensive training and ongoing clinical supervision will be • Provide direct supervision and guidance to all Prevention Program staff. Document supervision and provided. direction given to Prevention Program staff.

QUALIFICATIONS Provide direct supervision and monitor the Warrior Program. Document supervision and direction • •A Masters degree in a related eld or a Registered Psychologist in given Saskatchewan to the Warrior Program facilitators.

• Experience providing individual, group and family therapy • 3.0 Knowledgeable and sensitive to Aboriginal issues with an Duties Related to Administration of the intergenerational abuse •understanding Carries out thedynamics intent ofand purpose of the Kanaweyimik Personnel Manual as it exists from time • Computer skills to time and may make recommendations for the revision/amendment of Personnel Manual as • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills required.

• A clear criminal and child abuse records check • •A valid driver’s consistent licence Ensures application of the Personnel Manual, Administration Policy Manual, Family

M.C. Quantock

“Canada’s Bulls”

SATURDAY, JAN. 30, 2021

Job Summary: To assemble and test material and finished goods in a manufacturing environment.

12 Noon MST

Work Conditions · Fast-paced environment · Manual dexterity · Lifting/moving up to 50 lbs Job Types: Full-time, Permanent Pay: $17.50 per hour Qualifications: · High school diploma or equivalent · The ability to speak clear, articulate English is a necessity Interested individuals should drop off a resume to 100 Canola Ave, Attn Ruan van der Walt or email a resume to rvanderwalt@tecvalco.com 866-317-0131 https://www.tecvalco.com/about-us/

Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable.

Clean drivers abstract a must.

Due to the focus of the position being provide services to • Make recommendations onto policy, case management, financial and personnel matters as they First Nations individuals in an agency operated by member First relate to programs and services.

Nations, preference will be given to those applicants for this • Authorize sick leave, annual leave, overtime, travel expenses and confirm work attendance for all position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

prevention staff;

400 BULL SALE

Tecvalco is Hiring!

We are currently recruiting for General Assembly Positions for our new facility in North Battleford SK.

An immediate negotiable start date with very staff, competitive ServicesorAct and Standards by the Board of Directors and LAC’s. salary and benefts.

• Ensure all reporting requirements are met for Prevention Program.

Please forward detailed resumés by email to: tony@tonymartens.ca in all B.C. management meetings or• byAttend mail to: and 9621 -participate 161A Street, Surrey, V4N 2E8. Please address to the attention of Tony Martens, M.Sc., BSW, RCC, RSW.

LIVESTOCK

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

as scheduled.

4.0 Duties Related to Finance Deadline for in accepting applications March 31, 2014 at 5pm • Assist drafting annualisbudget for Prevention Program then submit to Executive Director by the local time. end of January of each fiscal year.

Contact person:prevention Tony Martens 604-583-6612.

Onlythroughout successful • Monitor expenditures the year and ensure that the approved budget candidates who make the short list will be contacted. expenditures are followed. Report any over expenditures to the Executive Director.

Recruitment process to continue until a successful • Bring isany expenditure not in approved annual budget to the attention of the Executive Director for candidate selected. approval.

• Approve requisitions for cheques from Prevention Program as per approved annual budget.

• Identify and secure additional funding sources as needed.

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ALL 2 YEAR OLDS:

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• Charolais

Toll Free 1-800-561-BULL (2855)

email: mcquantock@hotmail.com www.canadasbulls.com Catalogue/DVD On-Line Now

Mac & Pat Creech 780-875-8167

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

READERS

NOTICE

THE AUTOMOTIVE ADS

IN THEIR PRINTED NEWSPAPER

Source: News Media Canada

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

5.0 Duties Related to Liaison • Represent Kanaweyimik as and when required at local, provincial and federal levels.

• Initiate and maintain good working relationships with local, provincial and federal officials of other agencies and/or groups who are involved with the funding of Kanaweyimik.

• Prepare and present information on Kanaweyimik programs and services to local, provincial and federal agencies, involved with First Nations.

• Attend Inter-agency meetings in each of the five First Nation communities as scheduled.

Meadow Lake Chrysler is looking for a hard working, motivated technician to join a fast growing Dealership in an area with huge earning potential.

• A University Degree from a School of Social Work and/or Business Administration or equivalent work experience and training in a related area with relevant courses or workshops in prevention services and administration.

• Extensive working experience and proven ability to work in the social services area with families and children.

• Extensive administrative and management experience.

• Ability to organize, delegate, supervise and coordinate activities of staff members and complex programs.

• Ability to formulate budgets, administer same and report on budgets.

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

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

• Extensive working experience with different levels of government associated with program and service delivery to First Nations including but not limited to local, First Nations, provincial and federal levels of government.

• Must provide a clear criminal record check.

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

• Must have a valid drivers licence.

We offer a signing bonus, performance bonuses, top Wages with earning potential to exceed $40.00 per hour, comprehensive benefits package, flexibility and an amazing work environment. Chrysler experience is an asset, but FCA and OEM training provided at any level.

If you are looking for an amazing place to work in an area that offer an unlimited outdoor life style, this may be your place to live.

We are a forward thinking, balanced work environment employer. We look to promote within and support our working partners to grow into a comfortable life…

6.0 Qualifications The qualifications of the Supervisor shall be determined in the absolute discretion of the Board of Directors depending upon the needs of Kanaweyimik Child & Family Services at the time. The following attributes are assets:

Please send resume to: marilyn.walsh@wyantgroup.com

Application deadline is February 19, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Start date to be determined. Please forward resumes by fax, email or mail to: (306) 445-2533, “mailto:marleneb@kanaweyimik.com” Only successful applicants will be contacted for scheduled interviews. Recruitment process to continue until a successful candidate is selected.

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

CALL NOW • 306-445-7261

your news all the time and online

• DOOR-TO-DOOR • CARRIER SERVICE • TOTAL COVERAGE OR PERSONALIZED COVERAGE THE BATTLEFORDS

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FOR THE BEST COVERAGE IN THE COMMUNITY

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news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

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Telling a nosy person, ‘It’s none of your business’ Ed and I spoke yes‑ terday about the need for both secrecy or privacy and transparency and ac‑ countability before others.

There is often a thin line between how much oth‑ ers need to know about us and what is none of their business. Ed and I agreed appearances could be de‑ ceiving when it comes to others. People may not be what they appear to be.

Not one of us is innocent of saying one thing but do‑ ing another. How we act in front of company may be a shade more agreeable than when we are with just our everyday family.

Nothing seems to upset folks as much as finding out that another person is

N

eighbourly Advice

According to Ed

By Raymond Maher

www.accordingtoed.com

revraymaher@accesscomm.ca a hypocrite. What a hypo‑ crite says publicly is not really what they believe in their personal life. Few have patience with a de‑ ceiver, a pretender, or a phony unless it is them‑ selves. Few are willing to be totally honest about their thoughts and motives.

The confession booth has

been a way for people to be real about themselves without public recognition and embarrassment.

The person confessing before a priest acknowl‑ edges God knows the secrets and sins we hide from others. Coming hon‑ estly before God in con‑ fession is more than what

we have done wrong. We know there is forgiveness from God and a fresh start with Him. It’s hard to hon‑ estly admit when we have been wrong or did wrong on purpose.“I’m sorry, I was wrong” is hard to say.

It’s a continual struggle to do things God’s way in‑ stead of our way.

There has always been secrecy ‑‑ not telling all there is to tell. We de‑ mand that we have a right to keep who we are and what we do and have done to ourselves. This secrecy leaves God out of our lives. Christians can and do ignore God, but God does not forget us. God wants to hold us fast with His right hand and guide

us in our lives. No amount of ignoring, hiding and avoiding God will result in God being indifferent to us.

In Psalm 39, David says of God: “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my ly‑ ing down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.”

The Bible never hides the truth that great believers and champions of God can and do sin in the most damaging ways concern‑ ing themselves and others.

Only Jesus was sinless and

able to overcome all temp‑ tations.

As king, everything was permissible for David, but that did not mean he had a right to sleep with another man’s wife because she was beautiful, and her husband was away fighting as a soldier for him the king. Temptations will always be an irresistible impulse or an impulse to be resisted.

David forgot he was not on his own as king with a right to do anything and keep it a secret. Neither should we, for none of our secrets or sins are hidden from God. God does not invade your privacy as He always knows everything about you.

Worship Together Spend some quality family time together. Worship at the church of your choice.

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

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

TerriTorial Drive alliance church

306-446-1695

PASTOR: Rev. Phinh Do

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

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

ANGLICAN PARISH Rev. Trevor Malyon

1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK

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

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

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

Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

306-445-5901

Reverend George Yando Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome

PRE-REGISTER

Hope Mennonite Fellowship

Battlefords Grace Community Church

1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford

SUNDAY - 11:00 a.m.

Worship Service

Pastor: Bill Hall

191 - 24th Street W., Battleford, Sk. 306-937-7575

WORSHIP SERVICES - 11 a.m. Sunday

Church Phone 306-445-4181

Everyone Welcome

Living Water Ministry

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

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

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

Celebrant: Very Rev. Janko Kolosnjaji 306-664-2301 (Office) 306-244-2604 (Home)

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

306-937-3177 Rev. Gayle Wensley

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

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

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m.

PASTOR - Rick Martin

Third Avenue United Church

ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S

Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 am

Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

Rev. Dexter van Dyke

Pre-registration required to register at

306-445-8171

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

Everyone Welcome

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

LIVING FAITH CHAPEL

1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

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

Phone: 306-285-3823 Contact: Don Retzlaff

No Services till further notice

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

Sunday Services 10:30 am Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church

11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

Maidstone/Paynton United Church of Canada

Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

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

Pastor James Kwon

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

Phone 306-445-9096

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

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021 - Page 19

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

Professional Directory CONSTRUCTION

ACUPUNCTURE

Sakihew Acupuncture

• Mental Wellness • Sleep Issues • Weight Loss • Pain Management

Co-Jack Construction

Established in 1996 Complete Building Renovations Brad Pearson

Jeanine Starchief

TCMD, L.Ac, R.Ac

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture

Suite 102, 1102 - 102 Street, North Battleford.

306-317-6744 Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

AGRICULTURE PARTS

Bob Frolek's

DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Derrick Shynkaruk General Contractor

• New Construction • Renovations

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

djshynkaruk@gmail.com GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance

AGRA PARTS PLUS WRECKING

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

Box 5 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

Owner co-jack@sasktel.net

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB

Jeff Schommer

306-481-4892 306-445-6769

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

Kevin Ryhorchuk

schommshandymanrenos@yahoo.com

306-441-8727

Have a "To-Do" List?

We Will Take Care of it!

Staff changes at St. Peter’s School to start ‘21

By Sherri Solomko Correspodent

Just because there isn’t the usual activity we are accustomed to this year, doesn’t mean we have nothing to talk about. The weather, up until a Jan. 13 storm, had been picture perfect. Continued creativity and perseverance of Unity teams and residents to keep plugging away through the pandemic are prevalent.

I wish our son, the NICU graduate, a happy 19th birthday Jan. 24.

The start of 2021 brought a few staffing changes to St. Peter’s School. Mr. Dan Wilgenbusch will continue leading the Grade 3 classroom until the Easter break.

Mrs. Sander began her maternity leave in January and Miss Michaela Deck moved from the kindergarten room to lead the Grade 1 classroom. Mrs. Sander and her husband Curtis are congratulated on the birth of their third child in January. Mrs. Leita Deck will lead the kindergarten classroom.

A Jan. 12 Saskatchewan government update wasn’t super exciting for the arena, but the Jan. 14 announcement from Sask. Hockey was even more bleak. For the time being, hockey and skating clubs for U18 participants will continue with eight-person, masked practices until a decision is made regarding the remainder of the rink season.

There is plenty of extra public skating and shinny time, but participants must follow pandemic protocols.

The curling club de-

U

nity News

cided the extended restrictions were not conducive to continuing the season, so the ice was removed Jan. 18. The curling club thanks everyone for their patience in the process. It will be a financial hit for the club not hosting the regular slate of activity but members hope to regain ground next year.

The exterior work on the community centre is a welcome sight. This has been in talks for a while but talk has turned to a reality and we will see this recreation venue become a much more esthetically pleasing piece of property.

Congratulations to the following town employees for milestone years of service awards: Al Schumack, Public Works, five years; Kavi Pandoo, financial officer, five years; Aileen Garret, CAO,15 years; and Michelle Schumack, librarian, 25 years.

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

Right, the hoarfrost laden environment after Jan. 9 fog made for a beautiful around Unity.

Far right, did this pretty pink sky on Jan. 12 predict the intense wind that accompanied the storm that arrived Jan. 13? Photos by Sherri Solomko

Outdoor enthusiasts are enjoying the recreation options in Unity including the Richardson outdoor rink.

Photo from Mayor Sharon Del Frari Facebook page

Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, January 21, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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