Regional News-Optimist May 27, 2021

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

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Fred Light Museum sets out to solve a historical mystery Relic discovered in old St. Vital Church

By Daryl Jones

Fred Light Museum Board Member

An artifact that may date back to the late 19th century was recently uncovered during repairs to the old St. Vital Church in Battleford.

Constructed in 1883 the church, which was designated a municipal heritage property in 1985, has sustained considerable damage due to a leaking roof in recent years and repairs have been initiated to correct the problem. Many in the community are hoping funding can be secured to return the old church to a useable condition in some capacity and to prevent it from sharing the fate of such other significant local historical resources as Government House.

When workers with Straight Line Contractors entered a previously inaccessible area under the roof of the building, they discovered what initially appeared to be an old chair stored there. The artifact was delivered to the Fred Light Museum where research has been initiated to determine its origins.

The relic, which is generally chair-like in appearance and is in excellent condition, is approximately six feet tall and 30 inches square with the tall side being curved. It has handles on each side, a broad shelf across the top and a small shelf just beneath the top. The platform has a hinge on either side. There are no markings that would indicate its maker.

While it was initially assumed the artifact was a bishop’s or presider’s chair, some aspects of its construction brought that assumption into question.

The small shelf near the top of the back would have prevented an average-sized person from sitting back on the platform comfortably and hinges on either side of the platform served no apparent function, Neither did the handles.

A discussion with one of St. Vital’s parish historians, Eugene Lepitzki, led to photos of the relic being shared with Brother Don Clarehout OMI, formerly with the local parish and now in St. Albert, who believes the artifact is a portable pulpit. The hinges on either side of the platform

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would have connected to a fold-down step, the shelf at the top is broad and deep enough to set reading material on while delivering sermons and the inside shelf may have been designed to hold holy oils and other materials used in religious rituals.

Close examination of the platform reveals wear from standing on it and there are scuff marks with staining possibly caused by boot polish on the upright portion slightly above where it joins the platform.

The opinion that the artifact is a pulpit is gaining traction with others in the Roman Catholic community and archivists with Prince Albert, Saskatoon and Edmonton Dioceses have joined local historians in the search for the relic’s history.

Anyone who may have old documents or photos from the church’s early days is encouraged to search for mention of the artifact or photos that would help determine its origins.

Information can be forwarded to flmuseum@battleford.ca.

When workers entered a previously inaccessible area under the roof of the old St. Vital Church in Battleford, they discovered what initially appeared to be an old chair stored there. The artifact was delivered to the Fred Light Museum where research has been initiated to determine its origins. For more photos of the item, visit www.newsoptimist.ca. Photo submitted

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 3

Council rejects appeal, upholds demolition order on ‘failing’ 106th Street property

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

City council in North Battleford made a decision at Tuesday’s council meeting to uphold the demolition order on a dilapidated property at 1102 - 106th St. The decision came after council had heard from the owner of the property, Zia Waraich, at council two weeks earlier. The city had issued the demolition order against the property last August and had previously turned down an appeal by Waraich, but council was ordered to re-hear the appeal according to a ruling of the Court of Queen’s Bench.

In his presentation, Waraich asked for additional time to repair the property and pledged to put up a security bond or a commitment in writing. But council peppered

Waraich with questions about the state of the property, and cited concern about police being called to the property 14 times in 2019 and 2020.

Tuesday, council members voted unanimously to uphold the demolition order. In rejecting Waraich’s appeal, councillors made a point of saying they had heard Waraich’s latest presentation with an open mind.

But the councillors made clear they were not persuaded by what Waraich had to say.

Councillor Len Taylor said during that presentation the owner “failed to provide us information ‑ credible information.”

He pointed to no specific timetable, and didn’t relate to the issues such as “a failing garage, a failing foundation, a failing roof.”

Taylor also said the owner failed to address “any of the activity or actions that have taken place on that property over the last six to eight years.”

“He failed to convince me we should allow him more time,” said Taylor.

Councillor Greg Lightfoot said he had expected a presentation from Waraich that “had a lot of meat and potatoes to it,” but “he was done his presentation in two minutes.”

That was not a presentation you make to council, Lightfoot said, for a property in derelict condition.

He also pointed to “very little construction detail” being brought to council.

“His presentation was very short and very lacking in details,” said Councillor Kelli Hawtin. His work plan, she said, failed

Council members vote to uphold a demolition order on the property at 1102 106th St. Zoom screenshot

to address many of the issues the city’s inspector had pointed out — roofing, electrical and siding.

“There’s not a clear and concise plan to remediate the property, nor is there a clear and concise plan to manage the property going

forward.”

Mayor David Gillan also cited the lack of details in Waraich’s presentation. “All the dialogue was created by ourselves,” he said.

Other councillors agreed with the sentiments

expressed.

Councillor Thomas “Bill” Ironstand noted the numerous letters from residents in support of demolition. “It is an unsafe building in the neighborhood,” said Ironstand.

“People need to feel safe in our community.”

Get your shot says Premier

‘Bizarre misconception’ that leaders love controlling people: Moe

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

At Tuesday afternoon’s latest COVID-19 update from Regina, Premier Scott Moe had some tough words for those refusing to get vaccinated.

He spoke directly to those individuals, saying “you should know, you should be fully aware of the risks associated with your decision.”

“Even though we are reopening in Saskatchewan COVID (-19) is not ... disappearing. COVID (-19) will not be gone and those who have chosen to not get vaccinated will continue to be at risk not only of contracting COVID (-19) but at risk of much more severe outcomes.”

Moe also directed words towards those encouraging others not to get vaccinated “under some misguided notion of

protecting personal freedoms.”

“You’re actually the ones who are standing in the way,” Moe said. He called it a “bizarre misconception” that “politicians like myself and others that we love imposing these restrictions on people and the general population …”

“I can tell you today nothing, nothing, could be further from the truth. I hate it. I hate it and I look forward to the day that it all ends. But that day can only come when enough of us choose to be vaccinated. So if you really want all your freedoms back, get in line and get vaccinated. It’s really not that big a deal. We’re not asking you to storm the beaches of Normandy. All we’re asking you is to go in and get a tiny needle in your arm.”

The big news of the day was that the province has announced that

public health measures around outdoor sporting activities, initially included in Step Two of the Re-Opening Roadmap, can begin to be eased as part of Step One on Sunday, May 30.

Indoor sports remain included in Step Two. The outdoor sports must continue to follow protocols such as participants not competing if feeling unwell. Players and coaches are encouraged to screen for symptoms and no interprovincial travel nor tournaments are sanctioned.

Moe cited the rise in vaccination numbers as a reason for making the change.

“So many Saskatchewan [people] have done their part,” Moe said. “They went out and they have gotten vaccinated. In doing so they are reducing the spread of COVID (-19) in our communities.”

A poster from the BRCC urges people to “Don’t Wait, Vaccinate!”

BRCC leaders urge vaccinations

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The leaders of the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition have joined together to send a message urging people to get vaccinated for COVID-19.

They have issued a poster with the message “Don’t Wait, Vaccinate!” The message includes pictures of the leaders of the coalition showing their green vaccination stickers. The

coalition consists of North Battleford, Battleford and five area First Nations: Moosomin, Sweetgrass, Saulteaux, Little Pine and Lucky Man. In speaking on the effort, North Battleford Mayor David Gillan said they wanted to present a message to people that “we all need to do our community part” to protect themselves and their friends and family.

“It’s all about leader-

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ship,” said Gillan. “It’s about our coalition coming together and trying to encourage people to get vaccinated. At the end of the day we all need to get to our immunity to get out of this pandemic. We just wanted to encourage everyone to do their part. We thought it was a good idea to come together as leaders to show that we are vaccinated, and to deliver that message which is a very important message.”

Page 4 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

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

Letter

Must good things end?

Dear Editor I write this letter to thank the many people who, for over forty years, worked at Green Jay Greenhouse, making it more than a greenhouse. It was almost a social centre, an oasis of graciousness.

When Rudy and Irmgard Jurke created Green Jay, I did not know them very well. I grew to consider Irmgard a person of mentorship ability. I do remember, however, a time when with a small sigh she said, “Sometimes I wish Rudy didn’t have so many ideas!”

I’d known Rudy since my late teens. He was one of those one-room schoolhouse students who decided to stay in the community and benefit the life around them.

I got to know him better when he and I, Jim Oliver, Ronald Rackham and John Sydoryk were picked to be a committee to get Lloydminster raw sewage out of the Big Gully Creek. When Rudy put his hand to the plow, he sure finished the furrow.

They designed the greenhouse to be basic and simple.

The customer didn’t have to pay for a carriage-trade building. People came from many miles to buy plants. I had only 20 some miles and was often the first customer each spring. Oh, I wasn’t there to buy yet, just to look and sniff the air. (Last year the greenhouse seemed to have an extra glorious display.) If I was ever short of anything, I’d phone and the staff would set the item aside. Many times I’d hand in a note to say how new plants had done for me the year before.

Often, if I was there at coffee break, I’d be called over to join the staff at tables where well-thumbed garden magazines were laying. One never knew who might be there, sometimes someone I’d not seen for years.

I don’t think it would have been many years before a sign could have gone up and acknowledged 50 years of service to the gardening community I miss Green Jay this spring; I will continue to miss it. The pretty yard where the Jurkes did not cut down the native trees but added to the setting with evergreens, the staff, the familiar surroundings, the fun of seeing what was new, the pleasure of being able to get tried-and-true.

And the roominess!

I shall miss the atmosphere that came through even when I knew, over time, there were some problems.

These never eclipsed the graciousness.

So, a part of my life, a part of the lives of many others, is gone.

Human beings seem fond of saying, “All good things must end.”

Must they?

Again, thank you to the staff through the years. The latest one, well we might run into one another when we are greenhouse-hopping, and we’ll say hello, how are you.

Christine Pike Waseca

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

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.

Regional

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.

Bouquet

Safety first A bouquet to the Battleford Community Safety officer. My kids and I see him every day at morning drop off times, lunch hour and after school pick up. He is always driving around the two Battleford school yards keeping his eye out on the kids and making sure drivers are doing what we should be! Our kids are a lot safer under his watchful eye. Thank you!

Colleen Blais

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

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892 - 104th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 1M9 Telephone: 306-445-7261 • Fax: 306-445-3223 Serving the Battlefords since 1908 E-mail: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

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

Colin from Lakeland Library Region headquarters recommends the book The Graphic Guide to Beekeeping : Your Complete Visual Resource For Sweet Success by Yves Gustin. Want to learn how to produce your own honey? This book is for you and includes plenty of images to help you learn the basics of beekeeping.

Visit www.newsoptimist.ca Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

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Jayne Foster Editor - John Cairns - Lisa Joy Reporters

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 5

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Nesting

Randy Weekes

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

This paper is proudly printed locally in Estevan.

Our regular contributor Jim McLane tells us, “This American Avocet is doing her ‘get away from my nest’ dance, trying to prevent me from discovering where her nest is located. Her antics did not distract me for too long and I was very careful not to disturb her beautiful green speckled eggs sitting in her little nest. It is amazing that a bird whose body is no bigger than the size of your hand can lay such large eggs. Take note of the meager nest, compared to the nest of a songbird, like a robin. Design in nature is truly remarkable.”

Photos by Jim McLane 306.634.9556

BGC Battlefords recaps a year of COVID-19 Staff

BGC Battlefords annual general meeting was held virtually on May 18, with the organization looking back at the past year.

President Neil Georget, and Executive Director Nicole Combres said in a statement that 2020 has been described as “unprecedented.”

The impacts of COVID-19 on their organization were significant.

March 17, 2020 was a “date we will never forget. This was the date we made the difficult, yet responsible, decision to suspend all programs and services. This was the start of what we thought was going to be ‘two weeks to

flatten the curve’ … little did we know this was only the beginning of a year like no other.”

Within a week of suspending programs and services, BCG began a Pandemic Support Service, to ensure members and their families continued to have basic needs met while schools and clubs were closed.

“From daily meals and snacks, to cleaning supplies, hygiene products, toys, crafts, educational materials, household goods, clothing ... we did our very best to ensure our members were not left without. We cannot express enough thanks to our community and those

who stepped up in an incredible way to not only give, but give more during these very difficult times.”

They pointed to a quote from a single mother of five who stated: “I have received lots of support from [BCG] and don’t know what I would have done without you. There were times I had no groceries and didn’t know what I was going to do … My kids are no longer complaining about being hungry. At some points we would only have a couple pieces of bread and a tiny amount of peanut butter for all of us. We have struggled a lot during this time and felt very alone. This has been very beneficial both

mentally and emotionally. I don’t feel so alone anymore and the kids are happy again.”

The staff as well as the board of directors were thanked for their efforts during the challenging time.

“At a time where we were encouraged to stay apart, the entire BGC Battlefords team came together (wearing masks and physically distancing, of course) and demonstrated what resiliency really looks like in the face of the unimaginable.”

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New Red Pheasant gas bar opens in N.B.

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The ribbon has been cut for the new Red Pheasant Cree Nation Centex Gas Bar in North Battleford.

The gas station and convenience store mark the first completed commercial developments on the Red Pheasant urban land in North Battleford. The gas bar is situated at the corner of Territorial Drive and 15th Avenue in the city.

It includes a gas bay for vehicles to fill up, as well as a GOmarket convenience store. According to their Facebook page, regular store hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day.

The grand opening was held on a chilly May 19 afternoon with dignitaries from Red Pheasant, North Battleford, Battleford and elsewhere marking the occasion.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Red Pheasant Chief Clint Wuttunee.

He told the audience that it all went back to the treaty with the federal Crown in 1876. There was a formula for land, and Red Pheasant had never received its full

allotment.

In 1992, a Treaty Land Entitlement agreement was signed between the First Nations and the provincial and federal government, to restore those lands under that Treaty. As fulfillment of that agreement, Red Pheasant acquired the land in 1992.

On Jan. 26, 2010, an intersection agreement, as well as municipal services and compatibility agreement, were signed by North Battleford and Red Pheasant Cree Nation covering 346 acres of that urban reserve land in North Battleford.

A new agreement on the intersection was approved in 2019, which amended the intersection location to the 15th Avenue and Territorial Drive. Initial construction began around that same time on the development, starting with infrastructure work.

“There was a vision there by our membership, by our elders and by our leadership to have economic development here,” said Wuttunee.

The gas bar is the first of what is expected to be

Dignitaries are on hand for the ribbon cutting at the new Red Pheasant Cree Nation Centex Gas Bar and convenience store in North Battleford. Jenny Spyglass had the honours of cutting the red ribbon. For more photos of the new facility, see www.newsoptimist.ca. Photo by John Cairns

extensive development on the urban reserve, with the prospect of more businesses and residential developments. A conceptual map is up on the site, outlining some of what is envisioned for the area.

Wuttunee said there are “big plans” for the land, which they will share with the community soon.

Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Grand Chief Bobby Cameron also

saw great potential for the entire land.

“We’re talking about real estate, schools. The list goes on and on.”

Cameron said that when the chief and council signed and negotiated the treaty, “this is what they envisioned, for 2021. That we would have the treaty right to a livelihood and we would have a treaty based economy.”

Mayor David Gillan of

North Battleford congratulated Red Pheasant on the grand opening, saying, “We’re very proud of this development and we look forward to many more. As Chief Cameron said, the future is bright for this particular tract of land.”

Mayor Ames Leslie of Battleford welcomed the gas bar development and encouraged even more.

“Our councils, Mayor Gillan’s council and mine,

are very open to development of Indigenous business and Indigenous investments in our communities.”

“Developments like this, they really bring hope,” said Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill.

“When I look across the land here I think there are some exciting things to come here for the Battlefords as a whole but Red Pheasant Cree Nation specifically.”

Holy Family School library aid wins award of merit Submitted Light of Christ Catholic School Division

The Connie Acton Award of Merit recipient for 2021 is Sherry Landry of Holy Family School in North Battleford. The award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to school library service in Saskatchewan.

The Saskatchewan School Library Association has the following pur-

poses in presenting this award: 1. To recognize those individuals who have made a significant contribution to school library programs to benefit students.

2. To recognize the responsible and influential role that individuals may perform in developing school and division libraries.

3. To recognize the contribution and effort of those individuals who have worked toward making the

association an effective agency for the promotion of sound school library development and practice.

4. To stimulate interest in planning, implementing, and supporting school library services which are essential to an effective educational program.

Mrs. Landry has been the Library Assistant at Holy Family School for the last 12 years. She is well known for her famous Accelerated Reader contests, her entertaining sto-

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rytelling, and her library club. It has been said that Mrs. Landy is “magical.”

Her most important goal is to help kids find a love of reading. She starts this task when our students are young. She goes into the classrooms and introduces the students to many kinds of rich literature. Students are instantly hooked and beg for more as she tells the stories using expression and voices for characters. As students become independent readers, she guides them to choose “just right” books that pique their interest. Students in Grades 6 and 7 always look forward to becoming part of the Holy Family School library club where they learn to organize and shelve books during recesses. Past students still talk about how much they enjoyed working in the library with Mrs. Landry.

Even when faced with COVID restrictions, she has found safe ways for students to still have books in their classroom and changes them out weekly. Most

The Connie Acton Award of Merit recipient for 2021 is Sherry Landry of Holy Family School in North Battleford. Photo submitted

recently, Mrs. Landry put on a “Battle of the Books” contest, where she read different books to each class and they got to vote

JPII staff recognized for years of service by school division

By John Cairns

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

Staff Reporter

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

on which books moved to the next round. Everyone was excited when she announced that winner last week.

Light of Christ School Division has been honouring its long serving staff members this month and a number of them are at John Paul II Collegiate in North Battleford.

JPII announced the service awards this week and congratulated the recipients on “their hard work and dedication.” The service awards went to: Amanda Cave - five years

Dee-Jaye Stebanuk – five years Sherry Chorney - 10 years Slavica Rmus - 10 years Tanya Wasmuth - 10 years Verna Wintonyk - 10 years Sarah Blais - 15 years Rena Fauchon - 20 years Chris Fullerton - 20 years Mary-Jean Rohs - 20 years Patricia Thiell - 20 years Congratulations were also extended to Anne Crozier and Dennis Mercer, on their retirements.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 7

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Charges upgraded for another accused killer

By Lisa Joy

Staff Reporter

Charges against two women accused of killing Damian Moosomin have been upgraded to first-degree murder.

Associate Regional Crown Prosecutor Chris Browne upgraded the charges against Stormy Wapass-Semaganis, 23, from Edmonton, and Jannay Blackbird, 22, from Saulteaux First Nation, to first-degree murder.

Wapass-Semaganis is seeking bail and a show cause hearing is expected to be held in Battleford Court of Queen’s Bench

next week. Her defence asked for an updated bail verification report to canvass the suitability of a residence in Mervin.

A bail verification report was also ordered for Melissa Semaganis, 41, from Poundmaker First Nation. She is charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

Tye Partridge, 23, from Moosomin First Nation, is charged with first-degree murder. His attendance on May 19 was waived as well and the matter adjourned to June 22.

Denver Roy, 36, from Sweetgrass First Nation, is charged with second-de-

Man granted bail in aggravated assault case

By Lisa Joy

Staff Reporter

A Saulteaux First Nation man charged with aggravated assault has been granted bail.

A show cause hearing for Mitchell Night, 20, was held in North Battleford

Provincial Court on May 20. The details of what was said during the bail hearing can’t be published.

According to North Battleford RCMP, they responded to a complaint of an assault at a residence on Saulteaux First Nation around 12:40 a.m. on May

of the Battlefords

gree murder in relation to Moosomin’s death. His appearance in court May 19 was waived and the matter was adjourned to June 22 at defence’s request.

A young offender, who can’t be identified in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

The charges against the accused haven’t been proven in court.

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

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Police say they called in RCMP Major Crime Unit North. Night was arrested and charged. The charges against him haven’t been proven in court.

By Lisa Joy

Staff Reporter

A trial for an Onion Lake man facing weapons and drug-related charges isn’t proceeding due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trial for Terrance Stonechild, 32, was scheduled to start during a special sitting in Lloydminster Provincial Court on June 1.

The case will be brought back before the court on June 2 to speak to the matter.

Stonechild – who was banished from Onion Lake Cree Nation - was arrested there on Dec. 8, 2020.

Onion Lake Cree Nation band council “banished” 32 people from its community in 2020 as they continue to fight illegal drug and gang activity.

The banished individuals have “contravened and violated peace and good order in the territory of the Onion Lake Cree Nation, and thereby are banished,” Okimaw (Chief) Henry Lewis posted in a statement on OLCN’s website Sept. 3, 2020. Names and photos of the banned individuals were posted on

For more court and crime news visit www. newsoptimist.ca

2020 after gang-related violence and drug activity threatened the safety of its residents. The Onion Lake leadership drove out suspected gang members and boarded up about 15 suspected meth houses.

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Trial delayed for Stonechild on weapons, drug charges OLCN’s website.

The OLCN band council had asked people to call Onion Lake RCMP if they saw any of the banned individuals in the community.

OLCN declared a state of emergency in January

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The South half of this property has a 30x40 shop with a new processing area recently installed including a commercial wash and sorting area and a walk in freezer. Also on the south side you will find a rustic barn with a new concrete floor and a smaller barn with stalls. Both barns have newer metal roofs. The south side has its own power, well, and septic system. This property has amazing potential for outdoor functions, wedding pictures etc. Call today for more info!

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

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Members participate in ‘little dresses’ campaign Submitted

River’s Edge Quilt Guild members held their second meeting of the new year May 7 at the Don Ross Centre craft room with 13 members present. It is hoped to have more members in attendance in the fall when the COVID-19 crisis settles down. Members hope you all “stick it to COVID.”

Q

The

uilt Patch

River’s Edge Quilt Guild

The current executive will continue in their posts.

They are: Leslie McFarlane - president; Bonnie Flahr secretary; and Pat Geddes

- treasurer.

The need for “little dresses” will continue once COVID settles down.

When finished, these are packaged up and sent to countries to Guatemala for the young ladies and children who live there. Many of our members have been involved with the project and continue to do so.

The “comfort quilts” group, headed by Joyce

210526C0 210556C0 210546C1

Vany and Grace Macfarlane, delivered quilts made by members to a group called Kids First. These were appreciated and a card was sent to the guild to express this.

Something new is on the agenda for future meetings. Members have been asked to give brief instructions on different aspects of quilting. Arlene Schwab showed members a quick

method for making a hair scrunchie.

Remember the “orphan blocks” that were to be presented at the May meeting?

Finished, of course. Because of “you know what” this has been postponed to the September meeting.

Members have the summer to complete the blocks.

Good luck.

The “good cheer” group consists of Barb Sealy,

Shirley Vogelsang and Rita Broschko. Please remember to notify one of these ladies if you have any information on any guild members.

We hope to see more members out for the Sept.

3 meeting at the Don Ross Centre. Members are still welcome to use these facilities Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays during the summer.

The rain has finally fallen

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

The rain forecast Sunday afternoon materialized overnight and was welcomed by gardeners and farmers alike. It was welcomed more than the snow received elsewhere recently. At Taber, Alta. the only crop that may suffer from the snow is sugar beets, but they may be OK. The lilacs that were in full bloom looked pretty sad with their heads hanging under the weight of the snow, but they are back up and smiling.

On the Weather Channel they show huge dust devils in the dry southern United States, while here we get what we call whirlwinds. Are they little dust devils?

The story of Walter Tait’s old tractor drew interest. Dave Ottas of Edam told his story of the 1949 AR John Deere tractor he bought second hand in 1956, when he was 18 years old. He dealt with a local dealer, Bill Roach, in Edam and paid $1,000 for it. He first used it to pull a five-foot tiller and press drill. This 72-year-old tractor is still doing farm work, as Dave has kept it in repair. It would look pretty foolish out on a field today, with that machinery behind it. There are small farm jobs that it can still handle.

M

eota News

The fifth annual Vawn Mud Volleyball Tournament being held July 3 will include a canteen, live music, fireworks and, new for the children, entertaining clowns.

A walk about town these days includes the aroma surrounding the various fruit trees in bloom. They all look so pretty and we hope the frost hasn’t hurt their ability to produce.

Canasta was played at the Do Drop In May 21, with top score going to Marion Ottas and Joyce Luckey, followed by Bev McCrimmon and Janice Morton. Third were Carol Huys and Gail Hilderman.

People were so happy to get out and see their friends again. Some of the games were uneven while others were close, but all for fun.

We are happy to hear the general store in Chitek Lake will not be closing when Harvey Surprenant retires this summer. It will be leased to Hayley Harris, starting June 3. Harvey and Lori will continue to live in the house. Hayley lives across the street so is handy to work. Hayley’s mother

Lisa has been working in the store for four years, as have Hayley and her sister at times.. It will be known as Lake Life Gas and Grocery and will also have the post office.

In Taber there is a small building set up called “Produce Hut,” as there are in most towns around southern Alberta. They are restocked weekly with fresh produce from the greenhouses at Redcliff.

They are a self-serve unit where one can go in, pick out what you want to buy, use your own bags and then pay with cash into a secured tin can, using the honour system. There are security cameras about, but to get fresh produce not treated with chemicals, is such a bonus for people, it is a popular place. They stock in-season vegetables all year. They also carry eggs and cartons can be returned.

The concession is open again ‑ a sign of summer.

There were quite a few in the campground and many folks had family visiting over the long weekend.

The gates are closed to stop traffic through the playground area. All is good.

The dates for cemetery cleanup are May 27, June 11 and 26, July 12 and 27, Aug. 11 and 26 and Sept.

10. This gives everyone a chance to lend a hand when they can.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 9

We can all help bring families together again.

Get vaccinated.

Canada.ca/covid-vaccine 1-833-784-4397

72300_4_Vac_ripple_print_9,875x15,571_families_English.indd 1

2021-05-07 11:19

Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

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Budget and Re-Opening Roadmap Highlight Spring Sitting of Legislature The 2021- 22 Provincial Budget protects, builds, and grows Saskatchewan while our Re-Opening Roadmap charts a course through the end of the pandemic. The Budget provides historic investments and economic recovery while the Roadmap leads efforts to get back to normal, bring back jobs, and get Saskatchewan on the path to strong pre-pandemic growth.

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier

Jeremy Cockrill

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

Ryan Domotor

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

A diversity of ‘justice’

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

One in a series of stories addressing justice, injustice and movements for change in the Indigenous community

‘When cops are doing this they break my spirit, they break my shine’: Favel

By Lisa Joy

Staff Reporter

The national group Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) says racial profiling of Indigenous people by police in Saskatchewan exists.

A recent incident with William Favel is an example of discriminatory interactions Indigenous people experience every day with police, says CAP ViceChief Kim Beaudin.

“Racial discrimination and profiling is in the bloodstream of all police departments across this country,” said Beaudin in a statement to media.

During a phone interview May 14, William Favel, an Indigenous man, said Saskatoon Police forcibly handcuffed and detained him – without probable cause – when he was headed to a barbecue.

“The police forcibly detained me on April 2 because I knew my rights and would not provide them my name and identification on an unlawful stop,” said Favel.

“They terrorized me and told me I was under suspicion of being in a gang solely because of my green Saskatchewan Roughriders facemask.”

Favel said the police drove past him three times as he walked down two city blocks on 20 Street West before eventually stopping him. The third time the police went past him they had slowed down, he said.

“This time I’m thinking, ‘What are these guys doing? They are up to something.’ I’m think-

ing, ‘I don’t have to talk to them.’ I just finished my jog.

“I was ignoring them,” he added. “I guess that was a bad idea.”

Favel said that is when he realized the police were going to approach him.

They asked his name.

“I said ‘I don’t have to give you my name, sir.’ I was respectful to them.”

He recorded a part of the incident. In the cell phone video the officers can be heard telling him he’s resisting arrest and to put his hands behind his back.

“They wanted to know what was in my back pack.

They crank my arms behind my back, they tell me, ‘You’re resisting,’ they throw me down face first. I get kneed in the back of the head,” said Favel.

“Next thing you know I’m face down in the dirt with cuffs on me and my arm is dislocated. I said, ‘What am I doing? What am I doing? I’m not doing anything.’

“They said, ‘He’s resisting, he’s resisting. You want to do it the hard way; you want to be the smart guy? We are going to take you to the (police station), finger print you and charge you with obstruction.’

“I was scared for my life at this point,” said Favel. “I know I didn’t do anything wrong and I thought this is going to go bad.”

Favel said police had accused him of being a part of a gang because he was wearing a green Roughrider facemask.

“I’m from Saskatchewan; who doesn’t love the Riders.”

William Favel following his April 2 encounter with Saskatoon Police. Photo submitted by William Favel

Police searched his bag.

All they found were two bottles of water, two bananas and his Aboriginal smudging material.

Before letting him go they issued him a jay walking ticket.

Favel said he called his sister and she took him to a hospital where he could be treated for his minor injuries.

CAP alleges police stopped Favel because he’s Indigenous and allege they gave Favel a ticket to cover their misconduct.

“Just because you walk in the ‘hood,’ you are a hoodlum, according to the police department,” said Beaudin.

Incident left Favel traumatized Favel, a single father of two who works fulltime, said the incident has left him and his two sons, aged 17 and 24, traumatized.

“I hate the racial profiling thing, but that’s what it is, it is racial profiling. It’s discrimination.

“They hurt me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually,” said Favel. “They broke me right down. They humiliated me.”

Before the incident Favel said his life was good.

“I’m trying to go to work every morning. I come home, have supper

with my boys, talk with boys, go to the gym, come home and talk more with my boys, cook, clean up, I’m a very busy, active human being.

“I was doing great, going to a barbecue, it was Good Friday. I had a good week at work; things were going good until the police did that to me.”

Favel said he is trying to stay positive to be a good example for his sons.

“I’m going to hold a positive nice foundation for my boys but when they are not around I’m breaking down, I’m thinking suicidal thoughts and it’s not good. I think, ‘I do this and boom the cops never bug

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me again.’

“When the cops are doing this they break my spirit, they break my shine.”

Wants apology Favel wants an apology from the Saskatoon Police.

“If they are such big men I want them to come forward and admit they were wrong, be accountable for their actions,” said Favel.

“And if they don’t that just tells us the real truth about our justice system, weak and untrustworthy, can’t be trusted.”

Favel has also filed a complaint with the Saskatchewan Public Complaints Commission (PCC).

CAP is calling on the officers involved to be suspended or put on desk duty.

“We don’t need these kinds of officers roaming our streets, particularly in the area where Indigenous people live [and] work,” said Beaudin.

Alyson Edwards, media spokesperson for Saskatoon Police Service said they are waiting for the findings by the Public Complaints Commission.

Edwards confirmed that at this time the officers remain on duty.

Saskatoon Police say that at approximately 9:30 a.m., April 2, 2021, members of the SPS in the area of 20th Street and Avenue L South attempted to arrest a man for obstruction after he refused to provide personal information for a ticket.

He was later released with a ticket but no criminal charges. Written reports are not typically left for Continued on Page 11

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 11

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It breaks my shine

William Favel and his two sons aged 17 and 24. Photo submitted by William Favel

Continued from Page 10 tickets such as the one that was issued.

“If a complaint about officer conduct is received, it is investigated with oversight by the Public Complaints Commission,” said Chief Troy Cooper.

“This independent process is important and must be allowed to take place so that all details are known before we respond.

Whether a complaint is made or not we also have a supervisor review files and a use of force evaluation that occurs internally - a provincially standardized process that has not yet been completed.”

Beaudin said the $40 jay walking ticket should be thrown out and the city should cover counsel-

ing costs for Favel and his family.

Hopes for change By speaking out and filing a complaint Favel says he is protecting himself, his sons and others.

“It will let them know this is unacceptable. If we don’t want stuff like this to keep going on and we want to make the world a better place, it starts with us.”

Both of his sons, especially his 24 year old who has special needs, now fear police, said Favel.

“Now he thinks they are all bad just because of what these two cops did. I don’t want them thinking that first responders and police are all bad. I want them to know if they need help from first responders they can call and count on them.

“My children are traumatized now and no par-

ent wants their children to feel what my children feel – scared,” said Favel.

“We are all brothers and sisters,” he added. “We need to change the negative cycle and turn it into a positive cycle, and then the world becomes a better place.

“I want to show what the police are really doing. What they did was unacceptable and it was not right. They probably deal with a lot of toxic people, but me? I stay away from drugs and alcohol. I don’t even eat sugar. I eat healthy.

“I have lots on my plate,” added Favel. “I don’t need s***** police harassing me because they think I have drugs in my bag. There’s actually some good people that walk around (the inner city) and I was one of them.”

On behalf of the Light of Christ Board of Education and Staff we would like to

CONGRATULATE OUR 2021

Lumen Christi Award winners and our 2021 Retirees!

Shalen Fox

2021 Lumen Christi Award - Staff

Father Greg Roth 2021 Lumen Christ Award - Friend

RETIREES

Michelle Sarenco

Tammy Loeppky

Laurette Koshman

Nadine Keller

Principal Holy Family School

Teacher EMBM

Teacher Notre Dame

Teacher St. Peter’s (Unity)

Anne Crozier

Dennis Mercer

Aqi McQuaid

Suzanne Lavoie

Teacher John Paul II

Education Assistant EMBM

Teacher John Paul II

Library Tech. Rivier (Spiritwood)

Regional News-Optimist Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

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The Battlefords, Thursday, April 22, 2021 - Page 5 Regional News-Optimist

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

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AGPRO SEEDS is BUYING: HEATED CANOLA #1 BUYER, TOP PRICE PAID IN SK. On farm pickup! Call: 306-873-3006 or email: sales@agproseeds.com.

Check out prices @ agproseeds.com

HIP/KNEE Replacement?

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING?

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

The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $30,000 Lump sum refund.

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

Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide!

Providing assistance during Covid.

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

Expert Help:

1-844-453-5372 CERTIFIED SEED AAC Goodwin, AC Andrew, SAdASh, Go eArly, PintAil. Oats AC JuniPer, AC MorGAn, AC MuStAnG, derby, So1 SuPer oAt.

THE

Barley

FEED & SEED

1

REASON FOR

# READING

PRINTED COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

IS LOCAL

NEWS

OBITUARIES WOYTIUK: Mrs. Mary Woytiuk resident of North Battleford, SK passed away at the Battlefords Union Hospital Saturday, May 15, 2021 at the age of 93 years.

A Private Family Service was held Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in Hafford, SK with Rt.Rev.Fr. Janko Kolosnjaji as celebrant. Maria is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Stanley; her sons: Robert (Darlene) Kindrachuk, Bernie Woytiuk, Percy (Liz) Woytiuk; daughter, Linda (Skip) Magowan; 5 grandchildren: Nathasha (Sean) Kindrachuk, Sara (Ryan) Archdekin, Danny (Lauren) Magowan, Heidi (Greg) Norton, Robyn (Frado) Woytiuk; 2 great-grandchildren: Jack Archdekin, Bennett Norton. She is predeceased by her son, Tom; parents: John & Efymia Hawrysh; siblings: Mary Hawrysh, Anne (Steve) Bodnarchuk, Helen (George) Kuchar, Natalia (John) Evanishen, Polly (Andy) Karpyshyn, Serafina (Albert) Guest, Nester (Doreen) Hawrysh, Voloymyr (Minnie) Hawrysh, Anton Hawrysh, Sofia (Steve) Matiation, David (Ann) Hawrysh, Art (Stella) Hawrysh, Oliva (Nick) Kindrachuk; first husband, Walter Kindrachuk. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of of Mrs. Mary Woytiuk can be directed to BUH FoundationDesignated to the Palliative Care Unit- Po Box 1358 North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Vanessa Macnab of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

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

Wage negotiable.

Clean drivers abstract a must.

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

motor scrapers, dozers, excavators, graders, rock trucks. Lots of work all season.

Camp job; R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d.

Wheat

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

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

1A TRUCK DRIVERS REQUIRED:

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS REQUIRED:

FARM SERVICES

AMiSk, buSby, Conlon, CdC AuStenSon, CdC MAveriCk, CervezA, Sundre.

Peas AAC PeACe river (very eArly yellow), CdC horizon (ForAGe), PoliSh CAnolA, SPrinG tritiCAle mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

Source: News Media Canada

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

BIRTHDAYS Happy 80th Birthday Edward Kopp!

Thank you for being such an amazing Dad and Grandpa, have a Blessed Birthday on May 30.

You are loved and appreciated by us all, we wish we could be with you at this time.

Much love and hugs from your kids, grandkids, greatgrandkids and Regina!

COMING EVENTS

WANTED

DEAD OR ALIVE

$

Canadian Prairie Pickers are once again touring the area!

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

Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$ $

Bonded since 1967

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

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

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

Kellie at 1-778-257-8647

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Roadex is seeking class 1 drivers to transport RV’s throughout N.America.

Subsidized group benefits, competitive rates, monthly bonuses. Driver must have valid passport, able to cross the border, pass drug test and must be 21 years or older. There are 2 positions available on our triple haul cab over fleet. For more information about us, please visit our website at roadexservices.com. To apply please email resume and a current driver’s abstract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.

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

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

All the right choices for you to reach More People...

Regional

NEWS-OPTIMIST Serving the Battlefords since 1908

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 - Funeral Director Vanessa Macnab - Funeral Director Funerals | Burials | Cremation | Preplanning

FAMILY OWNED FAMILY FOCUSED

eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

TENDERS

TOWN OF CUT KNIFE TENDER OF HAYLAND Written tenders in sealed envelopes are invited from persons in the cutting of the Town of Cut Knife Hayland property.

Tender must be in pounds.

All Tenders much be received in the Town Office by 12:00 pm noon on Friday, June 11, 2021.

The decision to award will be made by council.

The highest or any tender may be necessarily be Accepted and the Town reserves the right to reject any and all tenders. While we thank everyone for their interest shown, only the awarded parties will be contacted.

Two properties are up for tender 1. Parcel A Plan 101531663 Airstrip Location 2. Parcel C Plan 80B01258 Property south of the highway commercial district Please send Tender to: Town of Cut Knife 102 Broad Street Box 130, Cut Knife, Sask. S0M 0N0

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NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 15

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Town of Radisson

battlefords humane society

2021 Assessment Roll Notice

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Radisson for the year of 2021 has been prepared and will be open to inspection in the Office of the Assessor

By Appointment Only due to the CoVid-19 Pandemic from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week during the period from May 28, 2021 through July 27, 2021.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with: The Assessor, Town of Radisson, Box 69 Radisson, SK S0K 3L0 by the 27th day of July, 2021.

Dated this 28th day of May, 2020 Connie Henning, Assessor

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF ELDON NO. 471

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Public notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of:

Councillor for Division No. 5 Will be received by the undersigned at the municipal office during normal office hours until Wednesday, June 16th, 2021 at 4:00p.m. local time.

Nomination forms may be obtained from the municipal office.

Dated this 20th day of May, 2021.

Lee Torrance Returning Officer

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

PUBLIC NOTICE

RM of Mervin No. 499 Public Notice Zoning Bylaw Amendment

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality (RM) of Mervin No. 499 intends to adopt a bylaw under the Planning and Development Act, 2007, to amend Bylaw No. 94-4, known as the Zoning Bylaw (ZB).

INTENT: The proposed amendment would: add a subsection heading for development not requiring a permit; exempt from permitting the screening or closing in of existing covered decks where used for seasonal living or congregation space, fences, and landscaping where specific permitting is not otherwise required; and, add a definition for landscaping.

READERS

NOTICE

THE AUTOMOTIVE ADS

IN THEIR PRINTED NEWSPAPER

AFFECTED LAND: All lands within the RM would be affected by the proposed changes such that the amendment would be affecting the administration and definitions portions of the ZB.

REASON: The RM wishes to provide clarity in its ZB with respect to identifying those items for which it does not require a development permit by providing a subsection heading to better identify relevant bylaw content, and to specifically identify items for which permitting is not required.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaw at the RM of Mervin No. 499 office between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. excluding statutory holidays. Copies will be available to the public at a cost, by emailing the contact below, or on the RM’s website. A copy of the proposed amendment is available for viewing here: www.rmofmervin. ca/planning-and-development/public-notification/ , along with details for online meeting participation.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday June 8, 2021 at 1:30 PM in the RM office located in the Town of Turtleford to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendments. Council will consider written and emailed comments at the meeting. Due to limited space in Council chambers and COVID social distancing requirements, Council is intending to have an online participation component to the public hearing for those wishing to make verbal representation. Interested parties wishing to address Council are required to register for the online component and are encouraged to contact the RM office or its Planner for details. The deadline for receipt of comments, and requests for online representation must be received by the RM office or its Planner by June 3, 2021. For additional information, please contact the Municipal Planner at (306) 397-1000 or yvonne@ northboundplanning.ca.

Issued at the Town of Turtleford this 19th day of May 2021 S. Yvonne Prusak, BASc, MA, MCIP, RPP Municipal Planner RM of Mervin No. 499

Hi I’m Annie!

Hi I’m Penny!

I am a very sweet loving girl with so much personality I’m a bit older than the other cats here at 10 and character to offer. I love peoples of all sorts. I years old, but with age comes a certain wisdom love to play outside and love to be with the humans and dignity the youngins’ can’t compete with. I as much as possible. I get along well with most dogs am patient, a pro at entertaining myself, but I love as long as proper introduction is done. people too!

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

battlefordshumanesociety.com CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Temporary Part-Time Assistant Administrator R.M. of Redberry No. 435 is accepting applications for a Temporary Part Time Assistant Administrator to cover a maternity leave position starting tentatively July 1st, 2021.

Applicants should possess excellent communication, public relations, and time management skills and be able to work under the Administrators Supervision. Experience with Munisoft software or previous computer/ bookkeeping experience would be an asset.

The office is located at Hafford, Saskatchewan.

The R.M. offers a competitive wage and provides the SARM benefits package. The salary range is dependent upon experience and qualifications of the successful applicant.

Interested candidates please submit a detailed resume including qualifications, past and present work experience, and three work related references. A current criminal records check should accompany your application or be provided prior before commencement of employment.

Application must be in no later than 4:00 P.M. local time, Friday, June 04th, 2021.

R.M. of Redberry No. 435

Source: News Media Canada

rm435@sasktel.net Box 160 Hafford, Saskatchewan, S0J 1A0 Phone: 306-549-2333 or Fax: 306-549-2435 CAREER TRAINING

a better opportunity awaits Discover a better place to grow your career: a place that’s caring, engaging and rewarding. We’re proud of our diverse culture of trust and respect. It’s a culture guided by solid leadership and collaboration from every member of our organization.

The Co-operators, a leading Canadian-owned insurance and financial services company, is looking for a qualified:

Associate Insurance Advisor in North Battleford, SK the opportunity As an Associate Insurance Advisor, you will be responsible for the sales and service of The Co-operators products. In addition to responding to client requests, you will complete front-line risk assessments and match new, prospective and existing clients to all lines of insurance. your qualifications You have, or will acquire within three months, a General Insurance Licence. You must also be proficient with the Microsoft Office suite and other technology. Other financial services licenses, flexible hours, and travel may also be required.

• Door‐to‐door • Carrier service • Total coverage or personalized coverage

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

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NEWS-OPTIMIST Serving the Battlefords since 1908

If you are interested in a career with The Co-operators, send your resume to: James Bowen Financial Advisor james_bowen@cooperators.ca

Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

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Plant sale gives neighbours a chance to visit

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Rain, rain, rain ‑ that is what’s happening late Sun‑ day evening and all day Monday as I write my col‑ umn. Farmers were beg‑ ging for this.

There were plants ga‑ lore this past Saturday at Dora and Barry’s farm yard. The three vendors, Dora, Denise Taylor (nee Wolhberg) and Mayfair Library with Ellen Scotton the attendant, would like to send a huge thank you for the purchases of pe‑ rennials, annuals, hanging baskets and houseplants.

With the pandemic, most neighbours hadn’t seen others for over a year. Buy‑ ers came from Spiritwood, Rabbit Lake, North Battle‑ ford, Hafford, Blaine Lake and Speers areas. I can’t wait for the 2022 sale.

Dora is offering classes on creating your own out‑ door chandelier solar light‑ ing with LEDs. She had one on display. For regis‑ tration and more details

call her at 306-246-4848 or Teresa at 306-441-8674.

New local Avon repre‑ sentative is Teresa Toews.

She took over from Leanne Cherwinski this past win‑ ter. She can be contacted at 306 441-8674.

Being great-grandpar‑ ents for the third time has Ellyn and Buck Scotton excited.

Granddaughter Eryn and Trevor Charon of Lloydminster, Alta. wel‑ comed the birth of their second child in March.

The proud grandparents are Dawn and Eric La‑ vallee, former students at Mayfair school and also living in Lloydminster.

National Organ and Tis‑ sue Donation Awareness Month was April, but one can sign their donor card that comes in with the driv‑ ers’ licence renewal any‑

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

R.M OF ROUND HILL NO. 467 SUMMER STUDENT The Rural Municipality of Round Hill No. 467 is seeking to fill one Summer Student Position.

The successful candidate will meet the following criteria: • Class 5 Drivers License • Have good organizational, communication and record keeping skills • Some knowledge of how to run and lawn mower and grass trimmer Duties may include but not limited to: • Cutting Grass • Grass trimming • Painting • Installing RM signs • Tree Trimming • Organizing and Cleaning Skills and Abilities • Oral communications • Working with others • Continuous learning • Working independently Applicants are invited to submit a resume with references and proof of a valid Class driver’s license to: RM of Round Hill No. 467 Box 9 Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0 Fax: (306) 824-2150 Email: rm467@sasktel.net Application Deadline is June 10th, 2021

Dora Brown works to display hardy plants from her greenhouse for the many buyers at a plant sale in the Mayfair area Saturday. Photo by Elaine Woloshyn

Denise Taylor from Hafford with an excellent variety of plants and local buyer Ellyn Scotton enjoying the warm morning sun at Saturday’s plant sale near Mayfair. Photo by Elaine Woloshyn

time. The end of November and up until this past week‑ end has been a long road to recovery for Nate Starycki of Maymont. In Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital, his dream became a reality with a seven-organ trans‑ plant in a 14-hour surgery.

Nate was born with a con‑ dition called gastroschisis, which is a defect of the ab‑ dominal wall. Speculation was that he and his parents could stay for one year in Toronto for his recovery.

Last week he was strong enough to go back home.

Nate’s goal to be home in the spring to help his dad Dane to finish the spring

difficult. Mom and son were together all of the time. They have two other children at home so a par‑ ent had to be with them.

When Dane was able to fly to Toronto, the hospi‑ tal rules allowed only one parent at a time with the patient and no siblings at all. Dane was subject to Ronald McDonald House restrictions because of his travel out of province.

They have navigated this ordeal and deserve to live a normal happy family life.

Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear in North Battleford is selling Nate logo cloth‑ ing and, with ball season in

seeding on their Maymont area farm was known to his hospital transplant team.

That goal became a reality this past weekend. Dane purposely left four quar‑ ters to seed so Nate would return to make this happen.

His mom Jen has been send‑ ing messages and videos on Facebook documenting the hospital journey. A Go‑ FundMe page was set up for the family with a goal of raising $50,000 to help with the ongoing family, medi‑ cal, hotel and other costs.

A whopping $67.000 was raised.

COVID-19 related re‑ strictions made matters

full swing, the caps don’t stay on the shelf long. Pro‑ ceeds are donated to chil‑ dren’s hospitals and in the last two years these sales have raised a substantial amount of money.

This good soaker of precipitation will have ev‑ eryone, city and country folks alike, smiling from ear to ear. I’m putting on my rubber boots, checking the rain gauge and going splashin’ in those welcom‑ ing puddles and not even taking an umbrella. The side roads will be muddy for awhile, so the car wash businesses will be busier than ever.

McLurg alumnus wins USask award

By Sherri Solomko Treyton Pernitsky, son of Sheldon and Syndee Pernitsky of Wilkie, has earned a leadership award from Huskies Athletics at the University of Sask‑ atchewan.

Pernitsky is in his sec‑ ond year at the University of Saskatchewan enrolled at the Edwards School of Business. He is a track and field team distance runner and specializes in middledistance events. He was named as captain of the team.

Because there was no athletic awards due to the lack of competition season

due to the pandemic, lead‑ ership awards were cre‑ ated. An award was given to an athlete on each of the teams for their leadership shown during the pandem‑ ic. Recipients were chosen by athletes on the teams by nomination.

“As a second-year run‑ ner from Wilkie, Treyton Pernitsky has been the ul‑ timate team player for the 2020-2021 season,” states Huskies Athletics. “This business student has made valiant efforts to stay in touch with his team and continues to motivate people to strive to achieve their goals academically,

Treyton Pernitsky

and athletically, during this difficult season.”

While accepting the award, Pernitsky spreads the recognition around.

“I am proud of the fam‑ ily our team has become and each team member is a leader in their own way.”

He encourages everyone to stay safe, keep wearing their masks and get vacci‑ nated when they are eligi‑ ble so everyone can return to sport in the future.

The award was present‑

ed by Chief Athletics Of‑ ficer Dave Hardy, who de‑ scribes the tribute as a way to bring the student-athlete body together to celebrate accomplishments through‑ out the year.

“It provides an opportu‑ nity for us to recognize and highlight the individual success and milestones of some of the most outstand‑ ing performances of the season. As we reflect on the 2020-21 season, al‑ though those performances did not happen, we want to acknowledge the dedica‑ tion our athletes displayed to the University of Sask‑ atchewan, Huskie athlet‑ ics and the community,” Hardy said.

“This year, our awards have been based on lead‑ ership. You have been rec‑ ognized by your coach and teammates for outstand‑ ing contributions to your education, community and team.”

newsoptimist.ca

your news all the time and online

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 17

Doing what is popular can ruin your life Many times, the consequences of our actions do not come back to bite us immediately. There is the pleasure of fitting in and being part of what others are doing. Peer pressure is not confined to children or teens, but remains a force for everyone as long as they live.

Ed, my old neighbour in Saskatchewan, told me the reason he began smoking was that it was a sign of adulthood among his high school friends. He knew his parents wouldn’t allow his smoking, so he did it secretly.

He might have made smoking a habit, but he dropped a lit cigarette on the driver’s seat of the family car, which burnt a

N

eighbourly Advice

According to Ed

By Raymond Maher

www.accordingtoed.com

raymaher085@gmail.com hole that his dad discovered. His consequences for smoking and burning a hole in the car seat were many. He was not allowed to drive the car for a month. He also had to get up and do morning chores at the barn before breakfast and his school bus.

His dad said that If he was trying to act like an adult,

he could work like one.

Lastly, he had to buy a car seat cover for the car.

It is so easy to see a benefit through hindsight.

Ed claims he never did start again after a month of not smoking and has been glad of it. Seeing the link between cancer and tobacco makes Ed happy he didn’t do what his

friends were doing. For those who smoke, tobacco may not ruin their health.

I hope smoking doesn’t, but it can have that outcome.

The Bible makes it clear that doing what is popular always carries with it some repercussions. Proverbs 20:1 states, “Wine is a mocker and beer is a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”

Proverbs 23:20,21 warns, “Do not join those who drink too much wine, for drunkards become poor.”

Proverbs 23:29-35 paints a clear picture for those willing to see it, “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has

strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly.

In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on high seas, lying on top of the rigging. ‘They hit me,’ you will say, ‘but I’m not hurt!

They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’”

The pressure to be-

come part of what others are doing isn’t limited to the partaking of tobacco or alcohol. Many also use drugs and become impaired through them.

Impaired means unable to function normally or safely. MADD Canada works to focus public awareness with educational programs in schools to help prevent impaired driving. Prevention of impairment is everyone’s duty. Every day in Canada, four people are killed on average and many more injured in drug-related crashes. For anyone drinking alcohol or doing drugs, be sure they can ruin your life and also the lives of others when you drive impaired.

Worship Together Spend some quality family time together.

Worship at the church of your choice.

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

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

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

306-446-1695

PASTOR: Rev. Phinh Do

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

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

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

ANGLICAN PARISH

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

Rev. Trevor Malyon

1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK

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

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

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

Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

306-445-5901

Reverend George Yando Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome

PRE-REGISTER

Living Water Ministry

Hope Mennonite Fellowship 1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford

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

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School - 10:00 a.m.

Pastor: Dean Covert

Church Phone 306-445-4181

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

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

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

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

306-937-3177 Rev. Gayle Wensley

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

Third Avenue United Church Rev. Dexter van Dyke

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

306-445-8171

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

Everyone Welcome

Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

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

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m.

PASTOR - Rick Martin

LIVING FAITH CHAPEL

1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

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

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

No Services till further notice

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

Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church

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

Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Services 10:30 am

1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

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

Pastor James Kwon

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

Phone 306-445-9096

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

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

WHO DOES IT? Professional Directory

AGRICULTURE PARTS

Bob Frolek's

AGRA PARTS PLUS

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Derrick Shynkaruk General Contractor

WRECKING

• New Construction • Renovations

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

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306-445-6769

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

ALL NATURAL GRANOLA

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

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

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Maureen at

306-937-7474 maureen@battlefordfurniture.com

djshynkaruk@gmail.com REAL ESTATE AGENT

HANDCRAFTED, LOCAL & ALL NATURAL GRANOLA

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Shannon at

306-937-7474 Broker/Owner - REALTOR® Text or call: (306) 441-5851

shannon@battlefordfurniture.com

Yanitsa Borisova Owner

www.yanishealthykitchen.com

Find us on Instagram

& Facebook

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CONSTRUCTION

Co-Jack Construction

Established in 1996 Complete Building Renovations Brad Pearson

Owner co-jack@sasktel.net

Box 5 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

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

CONTRACTOR ROOFERS

ROOFING CONTRACTOR New, re-roofing & roof repair

Todd Patterson Owner/Operator

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

- Guaranteed Workmanship -

FREE Estimates & Senior Discounts

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

ROOFING CONTRACTOR

SALVAGE

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL, NO JOB TOO BIG Tire ServiceS

306.937.TIRE or 937-8473 motiontire@sasktel.net

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

“Quality that doesn’t cost, it pays”

Serving Battlefords & Area…Locally Owned & Operated

Dion BelRose 306-937-2083 Insurance Claims Welcome

ROOFING & EXTERIOR

Rene Michaud “The Wizard” “TheRoofing Roofing Wizard”

Licensed/Insured WCB A263327

Project Manager Estimator 1171B - 100 162 - 4th AveStreet W 306-445-ROOF (7663) PO Box 1013 306-445-ROOF (7663) &North Industrial, S0M 0E0 Email: Battleford, SK S9A 3E6 Email: www.triumphroofing.com wizard4@sasktel.net www.triumphroofing.com wizard4@sasktel.net

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For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Bruce at

306-937-7474 PRESCRIPTION APPLICATION 45’ BELT CONVEYER

bruce@battlefordfurniture.com

Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance

SALES CONSULTANT For all your Furniture, Appliance & Mattress Needs

Call

Joleen at

306-937-7474 joleen@battlefordfurniture.com

Kevin Ryhorchuk

306-441-8727

TREE SERVICES

Big Mike's Contracting

1001 - 113 Street, North Battleford, SK Owner: Mike Huber

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

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306-441-7570

Regional News-Optimist

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The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021 - Page 19

Unity swimming pool set to open next week

By Sherri Solomko

U

Correspondent

Some farmers are seeding while others are on the verge of finishing. We continue to remain hopeful for timely rains after a dry April and May. Some areas around here received snow and some rain May 18.

The pool is set to open next week. The town’s parks and recreation department have been working on the reopening phases for a couple of weeks and it should be good to go for a season of swimming. Lessons registration took place online. Just remember, the pool staff and recreation director are working with pandemic protocols that seem to change often and this is a new experience for them, after not having been open last year, so please be patient with the process.

The fire department has been busy with this prolonged dry spell, reporting to numerous grassfires.

nity News

Buy a coffee or safely fist bump one of our UFD members as they have had their work cut out for them these past few weeks. Until Mother Nature provides some relief it could be a long spring for them yet.

The bat story has come to a conclusion. Global News carried a brief story on the return of the arena bats. Did you know the bat colony found in our arena was the largest one recorded in North America?

Hollyhocks Greenhouse latest fundraiser resulted in a $1,660 donation to the cemetery project for sign and marker replacement taking place this summer.

Have you planted yellow flowers in your yard as part of the national “Hope

This bat bundle includes 30 bats that were among the 600 returned to Unity May 11 from Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation. The organization kept the bats after their removal from the Unity arena until they could be returned to bat houses in Unity. Photo submitted

is growing” campaign?

Yellow is considered the international colour of hope and what better year to exemplify this than 2021? You can check out the national Communities in Bloom website for details as well as entering

your yellow garden/yard displays for a contest.

Local realtors are reporting a continued hot real estate market. Residents are noticing an increase in sold signs and we are told this is due to people up scaling or downsizing, new residents, rental property purchases and house flippers.

The museum will soon

This duck duo took advantage of the aptly named early bird swim at the Unity Credit Union Aquatic Centre May 16. Photo by Sherri Solomko

be announcing their opening date and any plans they may have for the upcoming season. Pandemic protocols will be in place like last year. Continue to support our museum through volunteering, monetary donations or by visiting the museum throughout the summer.

Unity Public School enjoyed some sense of track

and field events. with each classroom going through their own events during physical education classes.

Kudos to UPS for providing some sense of normalcy for this much anticipated annual event at the school Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...

Seniors gather for cards

By Dorothy Schwartz Correspondent

The centre is still being used, when needed, for COVID-19 shots. The local pharmacy will also be giving COVID-19 vaccinations by appointment.

Cribbage was played The dust plumes that follow this seeding operation are indicative of the dry conditions that farmers were working in. Photo by Sherri Solomko

D

MAIDSTONE

at the Maidstone Drop In Centre April 26. High score went to Eleanor

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Hinde and low to Dorothy Schwartz.

Cribbage was played May 3 with high score going to Dorothy Schwartz and low to Lois Myer.

Cribbage was played May 11 with high score going to Denise Newton and low to Dorothy Schwartz.

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3

Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, May 27, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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Battlefords and District Community Foundation

2021 Report to the Community Battlefords and District Community Foundation (BDCF) has been supporting this community since 2007. We know that when you decide to give, it’s because something is important to you. At BDCF, we have a variety of ways to give and funds you can support. If we don’t already have a fund to support your cause, please talk to us about establishing your own fund.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES

The most recognizable award is the annual scholarship or bursary for continuing education.

These are created to help students in a specific field of study and include: • • • • • •

Hazel Asmussen Fund M. Junice Headley Music Education Fund Peter Lewochko Fund Supervolley Fund Class of 2030 Wilkie Centennial Education Fund (McLurg High School students only) • John Coid Masonic Memorial Bursary Fund (Unity Composite High School students only) • PDG Lion John Coid Memorial Bursary Fund (Unity Composite High School Students only) • Paul Voegeli Fund (Maymont School students only)

DESIGNATED FUNDS

You can target your donation to benefit one or more local agencies. The current funds with BDCF benefit BGC Battlefords, Battlefords Humane Society, Battlefords Area Sexual Assault Centre and others. These funds include: • Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords Fund • Edwards Irwin Fund • Caring for Kids Fund • MaryLou and Panos Antoniades Fund • Peggy Westwood Fund

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS

Many donors want to participate in the distribution from their funds.

These funds also connect to specific needs in our community: • Darin Schaefer Warrior Fund • Gail F. Byrnes Fund • Nico Hawryliw Fund • Rob and Nora Rongve Family Fund • Celine M. Reichert Memorial Fund • Mel and Pat Rowat Family Fund • 2018 Saskatchewan Winter Games Surplus Fund

FLOW-THROUGH FUNDS

We have had a number of funds that address temporary needs or community projects. BDCF has supported projects like the BTEC building, the Credit Union CUplex and the water tower lights project. Other needs have been met through:

• Caring Communities Emergency Fund

AGENCY FUNDS

These funds have been established by an agency to support their annual operating or program costs. We have provided support through:

• Light of Christ Education Enrichment Fund • CanCurl Fund • Friends of the Dekker Centre Fund

NEW

BDCF has a brand new fund to help strengthen and support our rural communities. Your donation to the Hometown Legacy Fund will help support a rural cause that is important to you. Possible recipients:

• Farmer and Rancher Mental Health (FARMh) Initiative • 4-H Saskatchewan • Ag in the Classroom • Recreation facilities or other projects in your village.

• Increased rural connectivity.

To date, BDCF has given out $413,852 in annual grants from our established funds and $913,158 in flow-through grants to local agencies and projects like the BTEC building, the Credit Union CUPlex, Battlefords Humane Society and the water tower lights project.

What do you care about? You can support it through Battlefords and District Community Foundation. Contact us today.

Battlefords and District Community Foundation Inc.

call/text: 306-441-2961 web: www.bdcf.ca