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Doherty defends budget
Sports Fast starts key for
Everybody Has a Story
North Stars
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2 Grant cuts dominate QP
Amanda Foster
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Leg Watch
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Memorial marks 100 years
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Volume 109 No. 35
North Battleford, Sask.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
For the Birds The Canadian Mental Health Association of the Battlefords is continuing their fundraising efforts for their new location at the former Lions Den. This time with an auction of one-ofa-kind birdhouses. The Great Birdhouse Auction will feature over 20 decked-out birdhouses, including this one painted by Brett Wilson. The rest of the birdhouses can be viewed at kramerauction.ca and are on display at the Chapel Gallery. For more details turn to Page 8. Photo submitted
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In the news this week Staff The preliminary hearing into Gerald Stanley’s second-degree murder charge began Monday at 9 a.m. at North Battleford Provincial Court. Stanley was charged in the wake of the fatal shooting of Colten Boushie on a rural property near Biggar last August. There was a visible police presence in the area surrounding the court house that morning. Security was also tight for those entering the building. The hearing will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. There is a publication ban on evidence presented at a preliminary hearing. Stanley has pled not guilty to the charge and was released on bail in mid-August, under strict conditions.
PAGE 2 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Finance Minister Kevin Doherty attends his second Post-Budget Breakfast at the Balych Mural Meeting Room in North Battleford. There was a big audience for the event hosted by the Chamber, and plenty of questions from the audience, including from Glen Gantefoer of Light of Christ School Division. Photos by John Cairns
Questions for Doherty at budget breakfast Tense post-budget visit for minister of finance By John Cairns Staff Reporter
It was a tense atmosphere for Finance Minister Kevin Doherty at the annual Chamber post-budget breakfast Friday morning in North Battleford. Doherty was pummeled with questions from the officials and business people in the room over the budget handed down the previous Wednesday. The officials most upset were from the City of North Battleford, with Mayor Ryan Bater making clear he was still boiling over the province cutting payments in lieu from SaskPower and SaskEnergy to the City. “This was revenue that was paid in lieu of property taxation for all of the infrastructure the Crowns corporation had here,” said Mayor Ryan Bater. But Doherty said this was a misnomer. “It’s a misnomer to say it’s directly related to property taxes for facilities, it’s due to rates.” Doherty also made clear that with transfor-
mational change “we were going to be looking at everything.” He also noted the cities had said over and over again not to touch the revenue sharing. So instead, the province decided on payments in lieu. “When we looked at where could we ask this sector to share in filling that $1.2 billion hole, that’s what we arrived at.” But Doherty also indicated there would be an announcement later that day from the Government Relations minister that would provide some relief. The announcement came later that morning that the province would cap the grants in lieu reduction to municipalities at no more than 30 per cent of the amount the municipality currently receives in revenue sharing. North Battleford is one of nine communities that will be capped. Government Relations Minister Donna Harpauer explained that for the majority of municipalities the grants in lieu cut was “equivalent to reducing
their revenue sharing by about 15 per cent or less,” she said. “However, for a few, the reduction was more than 30 per cent. After discussions
Councillor Greg Lightfoot was furious at the minister over the payments in lieu cut, as he accused the province of taking away revenue.
I’m not here to run your city for you. You’ve got to make those difficult decisions.” — Kevin Doherty with SUMA, we felt that it was too much of a burden to put on those municipalities, so we are capping the reduction to ensure that no municipality will see a reduction of more than 30 per cent of their revenue sharing amount.” Despite this relief, the City still faces a shortfall. The prospect of making cuts was something other North Battleford officials were clearly unhappy about.
“You’re asking us to cut services by 12 per cent in our budget, or raise taxes by 12 per cent,” said Lightfoot. “You’re passing the buck down to municipalities.” The exchange between Lightfoot and Doherty was particularly heated, with Lightfoot saying the amount of the revenue drop would mean a huge reduction in services. “Where do we start?
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Do we close down our CUplex?” Lightfoot asked. Doherty responded “Look, I’m not here to run your city for you. You’ve got to make those difficult decisions.” “But you’re asking us to,” said Lightfoot. It wasn’t just municipal funding that was an issue. Education cuts were another concern. “Your budget will result in a loss of funding to our school division of $1.1 million,” said Light of Christ school division chair Glen Gantefoer. He also said school divisions were informed that an HR compensation line was included as well, with the expectation that school division employees would be asked to take a 3.5 per cent rollback of wages. “You know and we know and our employees and our unions know this is something they probably don’t have to agree with,” said Gantefoer. He said he wondered what Plan B was if that wasn’t accomplished. But Doherty would not speculate on what might happen. Instead, he suggested the employers look at options to meet that 3.5 per cent target. “We are encouraging the employer groups to go back and do everything they can to negotiate that.” Concern was also expressed from the hospitality sector. Malcolm Anderson of Gold Eagle Lodge made known his
disgust with PST now being charged on life, accident and health premiums on employees. “The hotel industry’s taken a hit all over the place,” said Anderson, who said he was not happy to tell his associates that “the one benefit we are able to give you is now going to be taxed.” Porta Bella’s owner Terry Caldwell, also a Chamber vice-president, expressed concern about the impact of the PST being imposed on restaurant meals. “We’ve tried to keep all 35 employees there,” said Caldwell, who noted many other restaurants were in the same boat. “If we see this budget affecting us this year again, we’re going to start laying off.” Doherty did note that to mitigate the impact, action was taken to extend the PST to stay-at-home meals as well, as that would be competition for restaurant meals. While there was a general sour mood in the audience, former Battleford mayor Chris Odishaw did express support for the finance minister. He pointed to the province having come through for his town with funding when he was mayor. “I think there’s no other way to do it and we all have to feel the pain,” said Odishaw of the budget, but “in the long run I think it will be the best thing for all of us.”
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Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 3
BUHF unveils first Art of Courage wall
Insert above, photographers Warne and Paula Noyce with models Landis Roan, Jazz Roan and Lacy Albert. At right, Shannon Englot, BUH Foundation special events co-ordinator, and Mike Zaychkowsky, BUH Foundation board of directors chairperson, unveil the wall. Photos submitted
By Shannon Kovalsky Staff Reporter
A wall of Battlefords Union Hospital’s third floor has received an update. The third floor, in addition to the chemotherapy unit, also houses the renal dialysis unit. Claudette McGuire,
executive director of the BUH Foundation, says the idea came about after spending time in the chemotherapy unit where she read “courage lives here” written on a piece of wall art. “I really liked that idea,” McGuire said. “There’s trepidation and anxiety that
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these people and their families feel when they go to these appointments and we recognized that and wanted to do something to allay that stress.” An official unveiling of the Art of Courage wall took place Thursday. Speaking of the unveiling, McGuire added, “I wanted
people to know there were a lot of steps in the process and a lot of [appreciation to be expressed]. Those thanks included Warne and Paula Noyce, the photographers of the three canvasses hanging on the wall. With Warne being a cancer survivor, the Noyces were enthusiastic to be part of the project that gives “inspiration and mo-
tivation,” said McGuire. After deciding that this year’s theme be First Nations, the next step was finding a subject. Having worked with them previously, Noyce enlisted the help of Lacy Albert and her children Jazz and Landis. Albert, from Sweetgrass First Nation, is a world champion powwow dancer and was on hand, along
with her children, for the unveiling. The three canvasses of this year’s first Art of Courage were printed and displayed by Ultraprint and Artrageous and this year’s sponsor is Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs. There are plans to make the Art of Courage wall a yearly project and the BUH Foundation has already be-
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PAGE 4 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Commentary
Best kind of social medicine in Medicine Hat By eliminating homelessness, the Alberta city has reduced the crime rate, the workload on first responders, hospital emergency visits and pressure on the courts By Gerry Chidiac Former American president Jimmy Carter said, “The measure of a society is found in how they treat their weakest and most helpless citizens.” Serving those in need may seem simply like the charitable thing to do. When we look a bit deeper, however, we see that many social programs help the entire population. Even on a financial level, projects that benefit those in need benefit us all. In Canada, two programs have become engrained in our culture: public education and socialized medicine. Neither is perfect and both are in need of constant improvement, but the benefits of both far outweigh their costs. Our education system is one of the key factors in making Canada a great place to do business. We have a well-trained workforce that’s adaptable to changing demands. The resources invested in each child come back to us many times over. Our American neighbours often point to our healthcare system as either a scourge or a panacea. The bottom line is that our publicly insured medical system gives service to our entire population at a fraction of the cost of their selective, privately insured system. Canadians are also able to live with peace of mind knowing that the cost for medical emergencies will be covered. This is simply not the case for many people living in the United States. A new idea is now emerging in Canada that’s as innovative and revolutionary as public education and socialized medicine were in their day. While the following project looks like an additional public expenditure on something that should be delivered by charity groups, it simply makes good financial sense. In 2009, the Alberta city of Medicine Hat established
the goal to eliminate homelessness. It was seen as a humanitarian effort and a money-saving initiative. By 2015, the goal was achieved. Today, people spend no more than 10 days in temporary shelters before they’re assessed and on their way to find a home. Housing and caring for these vulnerable individuals has reduced the crime rate, reduced the workload of first responders, reduced the number of hospital emergency room visits and eased pressure on the courts. While it can cost more than $100,000 a year to service a person living on the streets, it costs roughly $35,000 a year to give a person a permanent roof over their heads and provide them with the services they need. Not only does giving homes to the homeless make financial sense, it improves the quality of life for everyone. Many of the people living on the street suffer from addictions and mental health issues. These are realities for many families. As Harold Kushner stated so beautifully in his book When Bad Things Happen to Good People, challenges in life can happen to any of us. When
we give homes to the homeless, just as when we provide publicly funded education and health care, we’re helping ourselves. A great deal of credit must be given to the community leaders and municipal government in Medicine Hat. Homelessness is a long-standing social challenge that has been difficult to solve. They have not only implemented a solution that respects people’s humanity, they have proven that it’s cost-effective. They also established a model that other cities are beginning to emulate. The long-term benefits of this solution to homelessness are yet to be seen. It’s not unrealistic to conclude, however, that the Medicine Hat model will spread across Canada and throughout the world. And that it will improve the quality of life for not only the most vulnerable, but for all citizens. — Gerry Chidiac is an award-winning high school teacher specializing in languages, genocide studies and work with at-risk students. www.troymedia.com
A very big boot in the rear to the dog walkers who don’t clean up after their pets. As seniors who keep a clean yard, we don’t appreciate all the manure left on the lawn. There are dog receptacles along Railway Avenue West for you convenience. So, dog walkers, please pick up those deposits.
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Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 5
Payments in lieu issue explodes at legislature By John Cairns Staff Reporter
The week of March 27 to 30 at the legislature was dominated by debate over the fallout from the provincial budget the previous week. More specifically, it was the cut to grants in lieu to municipalities that took centre stage during the week, with mayors and councils across Saskatchewan venting outrage about the impact to their revenues. Nicole Rancourt, MLA for Prince Albert Northcote, raised the issue in question period Monday with Minister of Government Relations Donna Harpauer. That exchange was recorded in Hansard. Ms. Rancourt: — Mr. Speaker, it doesn’t sound like the minister is getting the message: stop cutting Meewasin Valley Authority and keep your hands off of Wascana Park. And, Mr. Speaker, they should also keep their hands off slapping our municipalities in other ways, too. They’re downloading $36 million onto municipalities by cutting grants in lieu of taxes at SaskPower and SaskEnergy. And because municipalities can’t run deficits, the Sask. Party is forcing even more tax hikes with their budget. Why is the minister forcing municipalities to pick up the tab for the last decade of Sask. Party mismanagement, scandal, and waste? The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Government Relations. Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — Mr. Speaker, just to be clear, we’re not taxing the municipalities. We don’t have that authority. But however, there were very, very difficult decisions that had to be made in this budget. And we were very clear with all our third party partners in every sector that we were going to all work together and share in the pain of bringing our budget to balance, and bring it to balance we will, Mr. Speaker. There has been no sector that has received more support from this government than our municipal partners. Municipal revenue sharing has more than doubled from this government, and for the cities of Regina and Saskatoon it has been two and a half times as much as it used to be under the previous administration which, if the members opposite forget, the previous administration were NDP, Mr. Speaker. Since we formed government, almost $2 billion has flowed through that program to our municipal partners. Mr. Speaker, when we spoke with SUMA [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] and SARM [Saskatchewan
Association of Rural Municipalities], the Premier was very clear time and time again. Everything was on the table including grants in lieu. The Speaker: — I recognize the member from Prince Albert Northcote. Ms. Rancourt: — Mr. Speaker, they’re the ones that got us in this financial mess. They are responsible. If the minister won’t take my word for it, maybe she’ll listen to Saskatchewan’s mayors. Regina Mayor Michael Fougere said, “That is significant downloading to our city.” The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association said, “Our members are outraged, and so are we.” Saskatoon city councillor and former Conservative candidate, Randy Donauer, said, “This is a transfer of a tax burden from one level of government to another because they can.” These municipal leaders are rightly and understandably outraged over the government’s shortsighted and irresponsible decision to cut a vital source of funding for urban communities. Will the minister do the right thing and stop these cuts, or will she keep plowing ahead with her plan for fewer services and higher taxes? The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Government Relations. Hon. Ms. Harpauer: — Mr. Speaker, the cities that the member opposite was just talking about, quite frankly, have pretty significant reserves. And, Mr. Speaker, I wouldn’t call transferring almost $2 billion to our municipal partners downloading. I’d actually call it uploading, Mr. Speaker. And I don’t think they want to go back to the revenue-sharing formula that was under the NDP. Oh, but there was no formula. They had to guess from year to year what else the NDP would cut when they were in power, Mr. Speaker. On top of the record municipal revenue sharing, Mr. Speaker, this government has made record infrastructure investments in our major communities around this province. Mr. Speaker, the revenue sharing to Saskatoon and Regina alone have each increased by over two and a half times, Mr. Speaker. But we know this is a challenging budget, Mr. Speaker. We know we all have responsibility to help us bring the government back to balance. Tuesday, with Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association president Gordon Barnhart at the legislature, the issue was raised again during question period by Opposition leader Trent Wotherspoon. The exchange with Premier Brad Wall on the issue is below, as recorded in Hansard. Mr. Wotherspoon: —
newsoptimist.john@sasktel.net … You know, meanwhile, that Premier and along with him all the members opposite have broken faith with Saskatchewan people and thrown out agreements with our cities and towns. Mr. Speaker, they’re changing the law so they can rip tens of millions of dollars that are needed away from our cities and towns. Mr. Speaker, former Conservative candidate and current Saskatoon city councillor Randy Donauer said, “This is a transfer of a tax burden from one level of government …” It’s certainly that, Mr. Speaker. To the Premier: why is the Sask. Party defending their wealthy supporters, foreign corporations, while punishing Saskatchewan people by ripping millions of dollars away from our cities and towns? The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier. Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, since our government was elected in 2007 and our first budget 20072008, the cumulative inflation since then has been 18 per cent. The increase in operating for K to 12 has been 31 per cent; the increase in operating for universities and Sask Poly, 45 per cent; the increase in operating dollars for our health authorities, 59 per cent. But the clearest winner in terms of this government’s investments has been the municipal sector because their funding is up 103 per cent, Mr. Speaker. And there are no strings attached to that money. They can use it for operating. They can use it for capital. And in this budget, a very difficult bud-
get, that revenue-sharing agreement was preserved, Mr. Speaker. There have been some decisions with respect to grants in lieu. I know that representatives of our cities will be meeting with the ministers responsible, I think tomorrow, to further discuss the matter. But, Mr. Speaker, when the member quotes the councillor from Saskatoon, he should know that in 2007, when those folks had the chance to do more than talk, they were receiving … Saskatoon received from the NDP $17.8 million in revenue sharing, and they were sitting on a mountain of money, about a half billion dollars. That’s what they gave to the people of Saskatoon. This year … [inaudible interjection] … Well, Mr. Speaker, they don’t want to hear the answer. They received $17 million from the NDP. And, Mr. Speaker, in this budget year from our government, Saskatoon will receive $46 million. That’s an increase of 161 per cent. Yes, Mr. Speaker, we’re asking them to accept part of the challenge we all face, a $10 million reduction in grant in lieu. That leaves Saskatoon, net to the good, $36 million. The Speaker: — I recognize the Leader of the Opposition. Mr. Wotherspoon: — Sorry, Mr. Speaker, I missed that in the SUMA speech that the Premier gave just a couple months ago here. You know, and he doesn’t have to take my word for it; he could ask the president of SUMA, Dr. Gordon Barnhart, who’s here today. Or we could
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read the quote of Yorkton Mayor Bob Maloney who said, “Just to pass along what’s been dumped on our plate we would need a 10 per cent increase in taxes.” Ten per cent increase. Mr. Speaker, let’s be clear: those tax hikes are Sask. Party tax hikes. Cities and towns aren’t happy. North Battleford Mayor Ryan Bater said “… outrage is putting it lightly. We were absolutely blindsided by this budget.” The Moose Jaw city manager Matt Noble said, “total blindside.” Regina’s mayor, Michael Fougere, said that this came “out of nowhere.” Mr. Speaker, even former Sask. Party candidate and current city councillor Bob Hawkins said this budget comes like ... Well, you know, I’m not sure I can finish this quote without getting tossed from here, Mr. Speaker. To the Premier again: why is the Sask. Party attacking our communities and attacking Saskatchewan families, breaking his promises, and hiking taxes while he has giveaways for the wealthy and well connected? Why didn’t he at least have the decency, the decency to come clean with our cities and towns? The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier. Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, I’m not sure if the Leader of the Opposition was at the SUMA meeting where I spoke ... [inaudible interjection] ... Well he says he was. If he was there, he would know ... If he was there, he would know I expressly mentioned as a part of the list of things on the table, grants in lieu.
Well he’s smiling. Mr. Speaker, we see this time and time again where the member opposite will stand up and characterize something, including commitments I made on taxes — that was his tack last week — and he’s proven to be wrong, Mr. Speaker. In the case of SARM, the speech to SARM, we also indicated at SARM specifically that grants in lieu would be on the table. Well it was in the speech, Mr. Speaker. Moreover I think we were pretty clear at both SUMA and SARM that we had a $1.2 billion revenue challenge. And so, Mr. Speaker, notwithstanding the fact that this side of the House has doubled municipal revenue sharing, Mr. Speaker — for our two largest centres, it has gone up by two and a half times, Mr. Speaker, since we formed government — notwithstanding that, we’ve asked them to share in the challenge of the budget in terms of grants-inlieu. They’ll all be still net to the positive. They’ll all be significant, more support from our government than there ever was from the NDP, and that doesn’t count the infrastructure dollars in Saskatoon, 125 million alone, and when you count the stadium in Regina, 127 million. Mr. Speaker, we’ll continue to work towards a meaningful partnership with the municipal sector that’s more than just speeches and words, that’s actually informed by a record of more dollars on a revenue-sharing basis and more dollars on a capital basis.
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PAGE 6 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Amanda Foster
y r a r b i l e h t o t e l p o e p l l a g n i m o c l e W
ent Question 175,00 0 – during a rec e. Period at the legislatur least, this to t ou In North Battleford, at set n’t did r ste Fo da an Am t mater ialdownwa rd trend hasn’ our door e wasn’t the become a librar ian. Sh rs ized. “The last few yea ir future caour circukind of kid who had the d an up en be e un hav ts an un co t, as has been reer planned out. In fac ty of ion lat rsi dergraduate at the Unive sure up,” said Foster. t sn’ wa ll Waterloo, Foster sti “Books for us are for a livfai rly what she wanted to do actually WaterThings ing. She had applied to y. ad ste program, loo’s Ar ts and Business like DVDs and a major. on tle set to d ha ll sti t bu CDs are sky tor y, She knew she liked his rocketing. And thropolbut after tak ing an an print items like sting,” ogy class “it was so intere t her phic novels gra tha d pe hel it d an r ste Fo d sai are too.” Graduatalso grades were good, too. Foster an ree in nse to po ing with the unique deg res a d ha , Foster thropology and business the data the govat to do wh t ou ure fig to d ha n the ernment looked next. at when ma king d on With her studies focuse ir decision to the ination, such an unusual comb er funding. low rar y inher decision to take lib think a lot “I an odd for mation sciences made is of it how they kind of sense. look at statistics. infor“Masters of librar y e of the reOn tty acpre a is es enc sci n tio ma ports said there y, your cessible degree. Basicall are a lot fewer can be cards undergraduate degree librar y were re anything. the n tha ty I’d “W hen I was in universi in 20 07,” said ing and get obsessed with someth Foster. “In 2010, with 50 wr ite a 12-page paper the province ina lot of sources. I’d always spent tegrated as one en I was wh so , ies rar lib in e tim system. Before s like, finishing my degree I wa nk I then, it was comI thi ‘what do I want to do? mon for a person places forensing and to lic es of tim tems. se can do that.’” le cau ltip be mu y, bu rd have a car in many sys random pe across to n,” explained Foster. to Descr ibing herself as a r, Foster said the move peotio he re tric to mo res n r are eig she re g bli the pu tin nk illa “I thi ge of vac n’t get to her. e have did “w d job an new a ing t’s to ng tha cha try t son, Foster’s wide ran un bu are co librar y, Librar ies topics she gravi- the in more for- ple using the s ford Librar y’s head ng ttle thi Ba e g hav rth kin to interests – non-fiction No loo re is As ssu ent ing from travel what the gover nm th usage more pre tates toward include anyth and zoology librar ian, Foster is fam ilia r wi ts.” ma ogy ming digital, at on paper.” ny people are coming oband economics to sociol Librar ies may be beco es. numbers – how ma enc sci thy wi Still, Foster isn’t one to rar lib are to ms ttleford ite ted Ba sui ny rth ma No w ho the y, d, rar ted tea – was weirdly lib no Ins . atives but Foster grown up around to the events for sess over the neg ny people have memberma ny sts ho ma o w ow als ho It didn’t hurt that she’d kn y , to rar wn le Lib dra op c r who works as people to she just wants pe often contradict Publi librar ies, having a mothe ships – and her findings s and children to try to get ult ad is available to them. are ies rar lib . regula r movie nights what perception that c are cost a librar y technician bli ere pu Th the by. p ty sto rsi ive “With taxes, librar ies the Un a “bad d ste ho . y ete rar sol lib After graduating from ob rd ha the ng e mi ly out on and recent th her master’s beco for adults. the price of ab r. 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As ute dolla rs to mp tax of co a ur rge yo job in cha librar ies, the d than you pay of ere off ure t’s fut tha the t re ou a big change. She got a mo ab s “There’ s anyone can abi’s community ment North Battl- and with thi down to what we the me d co t An r. gh mi ste acquisitions for Abu Dh Fo er d sw sai an ever,” n’t need an apbased in a womsomething ver y use, you do we think about the liers en off wh t o ou college system and was als you ab y rar nk lib thi rd arefo have ab Em irates’ pointment and as long as u spaces do. c r some people, librar ies en’s college in United Ar bli Fo yo pu y, d, ry. an car bra if , ur yo few t ital. place to oks haven’t los tion as being a stuffy ,” chitecturally modern cap t a lot of local histor y bo uta ing go e rep yth e’v a an “W d pay sai r to e ste d Fo hav . for in many oth- don’t t, North Battle d fac fin in to t bu ing There were drawbacks, too s, go y ok sta n’t bo are re u can sto that yo ster. “You a country known n a dramatic increase in er places. Some people, maybe they don’t said Fo see s . she felt guilt living in ha en y op rar ’re Lib we ts as gh as long s and Human Ri e an interest in their here media items such as CD hav for the indictment by ic y my on the t’s t ctr bu tha ele d, y, of od rea ion ryb tat exploi come and look It’s for eve Watch for its state-wide DVDs being withdrawn. fam ily histor y. They can to n ga be message with librar ies.” ce spa rs. c bli rke pu migrant wo at ogy books.” Librar ies as a eal gen go at to ce pla the g th The librar y, located itin erwi 20 yea rs ago re kinds of ent er mo ov “It seemed like an exc er ll off we ne to co ng ll ing cha wi , Try all St. st d Foster, rec mputers and Internet mats than ever, 1392 - 101 and just so different,” sai liv- introduction of co tainment in more for its doors seven of en op lity rto pe rea e y ue us Th tin ito the gs. iqu w lin ub ho e fee had to adjust ing her initial e In the time befor . hav ess ies acc a rar anybody who er lib to aft d ek an rk we a ening vincial bud- days ividuals could wo pro ind ent rs, rec ute the ing there proved eye op mp th co al Wi son et. dg it. Here now for more Canada, this time ail. Though free bu that regional librar y needs ent yea r Foster returned to cem un no on a resumé or check em an get r yea rs, Foster said ople ase by 58 per cent, or than fou had an overa rchcome commonplace, pe cre be to Labrador. s de ha ll wi -Fi g Wi din , job fun a to acmes ment is neces- she never the librar y for Internet For Foster, when it co . In $3.5 million, that adjust onda ry.” still count on sec bit a ing plan for the future is on ati loc e “th r. eve she says n it tha of re s. mo ces lot said, “a eresting, it took no lon- sar y colleagues across the fact, she happened.” to W hile Labrador was int evident that librar ies are nse po It’s res In the cuts, Sask- just kind of In fact, you don’t even “isolation to a new level” s aisle’s questions about lated ger just for books. iso a ing t be ou rBeing a librar ian ha e it t tak ou to ab k me “People tal leave your ho ucation Minister Don Mo to Ed lot a ed an ne in hew st ve atc are “li ne to r the ste to es a decade of declining led Fo here. I was 560 kilometr book. sting places,” and any- gan referenced cal ysi ph all n’t .” an overall drop of of intere are art lm ing es] Wa ari lud ibr inc – “[L s ure – r fig do s seemingly found in Labra popchecked out and the she ha After a yea r and a half Foster, referr ing to the ms d ite sai n ” re, llio mo mi – ” 1.6 nty ple essed s “was by a good fit at North Battlwhich Foster jok ingly say again made a ula rity of ebooks that can be acc librar y cards declining of er mb nu e. lin eford Public Librar y. on she oks cost the liPeople might assume bo tBa rth No en be s ha y than an ebook, but career move. Foster for bra ry more to bu ian rar lib ad he y’s rar s its costs. tleford Public Lib velled modernizing ha en several times more tra g vin Ha rs. yea r fou more than “Ebooks are oft positions and for a librar y extensively between job ensive than a print book exp g movin
Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 7
Safety report
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RCMP develop Community Policing Support Team By John Cairns Staff Reporter
Community Safety Co-ordinator Herb Sutton spoke about the initiative of the RCMP to develop a Community Policing Support Team during his report to North Battleford city council March 27. It’s a dedicated unit that will “provide consistent efforts” to build relationships with agencies that get at the root causes of issues of community safety.” Sutton describes it as a very “proactive” initiative on the part of the RCMP. It won’t take additional resources. Instead, existing resources are redeploed. “That is the kind of thinking, that is the kind of leadership that we really need throughout the community, because we all know that we’re in difficult economic times,” said Sutton. The reality is they weren’t going to get a lot more resources, said Sutton. “So it’s really important we utilize the resources that we can.” Sutton also spoke about attending the collective impact conference in Regina on March 15. Three people from North Battleford attended that workshop, including Sutton. This is another research-based initiative, he said. “Collective impact” is described in his report as “the commitment of a group of actors from different sectors to a common agenda for solving a complex social problem.” Sutton noted the conference attracted representaJOIN THE CONVERSATION To comment on this story and others, go to www.newsoptimist.ca
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tion from six different government agencies. He took that as a signal the province was interested in this approach and sees value to North Battleford being “in on the ground floor” of it. A third item he touched on was emergency responder high school training. A total of 24 students have been enrolled. Sutton explained the original hope was for 15, so that is ahead of expectations. He believes the prospects for success are strong based on the interest, as well as strong support from the fire department, RCMP, City, school divisions and elsewhere. There will be discussions by the end of April about the future of the program and Sutton hoped to increase the work being done on this, given some of the budget restrictions school divisions are facing. Sutton also spoke about the efforts of the Battlefords Youth Planning Network. This is a newly formed group of agencies and organizations working with youth in the community to find productive activities for them to engage in. The inaugural meeting had hosted 20 people representing 20 different agencies, and Sutton said the organizations have committed to share information and network and advocate for youth, and also identify any gaps that must be addressed. Another meeting of the group was scheduled for the first week of April. One more item from his report was The Lighthouse’s plan to launch a mobile outreach program. That starts April 3 and the plan is to focus on helping clients who are out on the streets during the day.
The North Battleford Bonaventure Lions held a raffle of a set of three petite point pictures by the late Eva Lister. Luck of the Irish was with Sid Waters when the draw was made March 17 at the Discovery Coop mall. Pictured are Lions Gale Morgan, Linda Laycock, Yvonne Nyholt, Naty Kes, Dora Johnson, Gwen Laughlin and Darrallene Lapp. Photo submitted
Funds for airport project sought By John Cairns Staff Reporter
At least one major project for the City of North Battleford is still on track, for now, despite bad provincial budget news. That project is runway rehabilitation at the Cameron McIntosh Airport. March 27, councillors voted to proceed with a grant application to the province for matching funding through the Community Airport Partnership, or CAP, grant. City Manager Jim Puffalt said there was confirmation the CAP grant is still available in the 2017 provincial budget, so administration recommended proceeding with the application. The airport was included as part of the five-year capital plan approved by council earlier this year. The rehabilitation is a fouryear project to address deterioration of the pavement on the main runway. The grant application would cover the second year of the runway rehabilitation. Last year, the city received matching funding under the CAP program for milling and asphalt surfacing work on the middle portion of the runway. The work slated for 2017 would complete the next middle section. The work for 2018 and 2019
would be to restore each side of the runway, completing the rehabilitation. The total value of the work for 2017 is $825,000. If the grant application is successful, the province would provide $275,000
with the City responsible for the other $550,000. While the province does fund projects up to 50/50, in this case $275,000 is the maximum amount of dollars that could be obtained from the province under
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the CAP program guidelines. The approval covers only the grant application. Council will still need to vote on whether to proceed with the project after the grant has been approved.
Lots of tickets for not wearing a seat belt Staff
Police all over Saskatchewan have issued hundreds of tickets for seat belt violations during February. During that month’s traffic safety spotlight on occupant safety, in which law enforcement was on the lookout for improperly restrained drivers and passengers, police issued 398 tickets for failing to wear a seatbelt or properly secure children in vehicles. That is according to an SGI news release on the topic.
The numbers are: 348 tickets to a driver failing to wear a seatbelt, 29 tickets for a passenger failing to wear a seatbelt and eight tickets for a passenger under 16 failing to wear a seatbelt (with the ticket issued to the driver). There were also 13 tickets for improper use or installation of a child restraint. On that last point, SGI is reminding parents and caregivers to ensure a child’s booster seat is the right size and is adjusted and installed properly. Free SGI car seat clinics
are available. According to SGI numbers, improper or nonseatbelt use contributed to 17 deaths and 194 injuries in 2015 in Saskatchewan, with 73 injuries to children under age seven. Also in February, police reported 4,168 offences for speeding or aggressive driving, 281 that were related to impaired driving and 348 for distracted driving including 266 for cellphone use. According to SGI, police will continue to focus on vulnerable road user safety throughout April.
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Birdhouses up for auction By Shannon Kovalsky Staff Reporter
The Canadian Mental Health Association Battlefords Branch is continuing their fundraising efforts for their new location at the former Lions Den. This time with an auction of one-of-akind birdhouses Jane Zielke de Montbrun, executive director of CMHA Battlefords Branch, says the organization decided to raise both money and awareness. The Great Birdhouse Auction will feature more than 20 decked-out birdhouses from local artists, residents, mental health professionals and even Brett Wilson. Thursday, a reception for the birdhouse auction was hosted at the Chapel Gallery, where many of the birdhouses are current-
ly on display. Speaking at the reception, Zielke de Montbrun indicated her optimism for the project and the Battlefords. “We’re really hoping people will want to support us and get a bird house at the end of the day. This community always steps up, so I have lots of faith.” The Battlefords Branch of the CMHA is currently undergoing renovations at their new location. So far, they’ve raised more than half of the $600,000 necessary to cover the cost. Battlefords CMHA will move into their new location later this month and will continue their fundraising efforts. Bids for the inventive birdhouses start at $100 and the online auction runs until Wednesday at www.kramerauction.ca.
Birdhouses on display at Chapel Gallery. The birdhouses are currently being auctioned at www.kramerauction.ca. Photos by Shannon Kovalsky
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Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 9
Lucas Punkari
Sports Reporter
Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223
Email: newsoptimist.sports@sasktel.net
North Stars scoring early and often against Bruins By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter
With the Estevan Bruins known for their quickstrike offence, the Battlefords North Stars are matching fire with fire. Heading into the third game of their Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League semifinal series in Estevan Monday night, the North Stars had fired 103 shots on goal on their way to a 2-0 advantage in the bestof-seven affair. “I think this team’s hungry right now,” North Stars head coach and general manager Nate Bedford said. “We don’t necessarily like playing against Estevan and we know that if we don’t start well, we’re going to be in trouble. “Our offence is balanced right now through all four lines and our defence is consistent. We’re all coming around and playing well at the moment, and that makes it a fun team to be around.” The North Stars scored four times in the opening 14 minutes at the Civic Centre Saturday on their way to a 5-1 win. Unlike Friday night, when they scored three times in the first period but allowed the Bruins to get back into the contest before winning 7-4, the North Stars did an excellent job of limiting the Bruins’ high-quality opportunities on offence. “We know that we have a skilled team and the
scoring chances are going to come to us, so our main focus right now is just making sure that we are keeping things simple in our own end,” North Stars forward Keaton Holinaty said. “We chipped pucks out when we needed to out there and we did a great job of preventing them from getting the scoring chances that they had last night.” Holinaty and Layne Young each had a goal and an assist in the victory, while Coby Downs had a pair of helpers. Ben Allen, Logan Nachtegaele and Connor Logan also scored for the hosts. Joel Grzybowski made his second start of the playoffs Saturday night and made 24 saves for his first career playoff win. It was a marked improvement from his last appearance in goal for the North Stars, as he was pulled in the second period of their 4-3 win against the Weyburn Red Wings on March 21 in Game 4 of their quarter-final series. “That Weyburn game was a tough one where the puck wasn’t going my way, so I came in with the mindset that I was going to stop everything that came at the net,” Grzybowski said. “Everything went well, especially with the communication I had with my teammates as that helped me out a lot. Hopefully I’ll have another opportunity here in goal somewhere
down the road here.” Grzybowski’s only blemish came in the opening period when Bruins forward Kaelan Holt slid a rebound into the net. Nathan Alalouf made 28 saves for the Bruins before being pulled in the third period for Curtis Meger, who stopped all 15 shots he faced. “We faced a heck of a lot of shots this weekend, so we wanted to give Nathan a little bit of a rest there,” Bruins head coach and general manager Chris Lewgood said. “He wasn’t at his best tonight, but he was still one of our better players as we left him hanging a little bit. “It was a little bit different game than last night but we didn’t give ourselves a chance. We dug ourselves too big of a hole and the penalties that we took were costly.” The Bruins, who gave up three power play goals Saturday, also lost the services of forward Isaac Embree in the third period of play with an apparent left arm injury after a hit into the boards by Nachtegaele. The game also featured a near hour delay to start the third period as repairs were made to a major gash left in the ice surface by the Zamboni. “We were all trying to keep ourselves moving in the dressing room while we waited to see what would happen,” Holinaty said. “That was a huge opportunity for Estevan to
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get back into the game with the momentum shift due to that delay, but we were able to hold them off.” Friday’s curtain raiser between the two sides saw the North Stars withstand a late rally by the Bruins, thanks in large part to a hat trick by Reed Delainey and a pair of goals from Owen Lamb. “You can get caught up a little bit in the four goals that we allowed, but we’re up 1-0 in the series and that’s what is important,” North Stars associate coach Braeden Johnson said. “We’re playing good enough to win and that’s what we are focussed on right now. “We got off to a nice start to build up that 3-0 lead and then they took it to us there with a couple of quick goals at the end of the first period. Our leadership in the room was key in making sure that we rebounded from that and we took care of things for the remainder of the game.” An improved second half performance in limiting the Bruins shots on goal helped the North Stars move out to a 6-2 lead, but
that lead was cut down to two in the final minutes when the Bruins potted a pair of goals in a 38-second span. Delainey would end any chances of a rally with 16 seconds to go when he scored on an empty net. “I don’t know if we want to play that way for the rest of the series as Estevan has a lot of guys that can score as well,” Delainey said. “Going forward, we need to improve how we play on defence. We did a good job of getting the shooting lanes, but you won’t win many games in the playoffs if you give up four goals a night.” Delainey’s hat trick was the second of his SJHL career, as he previously accomplished that feat on Sept. 18, 2015 in a seasonopening 6-2 win at home over the Kindersley Klippers. “It was a good night for our entire line,” said Delainey, who was teamed up with Logan and Jared Blaquiere. “Those two guys were flying around just as much as I was. “The biggest thing was that we had our feet mov-
ing and we made contact with their guys, which gave us the room to use our speed to our advantage.” After an impressive display in the third period of the series clincher over the Weyburn Red Wings last week, Lamb continued his impressive play Friday as the rookie forward scored twice in the first period. “Owen’s one of those reliable guys that doesn’t lose many battles,” Johnson said. “He reads the ice well and he set the tone for everyone tonight.” Young had a three-assist night for the North Stars while Rosenberg and Coby Downs also found the back of the net. Taryn Kotchorek moved to 5-0 for the playoffs as he made 18 saves. The Bruins were led on offence by Michael McChesney, as the rookie forward scored a pair of goals and had an assist. Alalouf was impressive in goal as he turned aside 48 shots. The series will resume Tuesday in Estevan. A fifth game, if needed, will take place at the Civic Centre Thursday night.
PAGE 10 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
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Hasselberg hired by Drumheller Dragons Staff After an early end to his tenure with the Southern Professional Hockey League’s Pensacola Ice Flyers last month, Kevin Hasselberg has found a new home for the 2017-18 season. It was announced Thursday afternoon that the former Battlefords North Stars bench boss will be the new head coach and general manager for
the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s Drumheller Dragons. The 40-year-old, who was with the North Stars from 2011 to 2016 before moving to Florida, had previously coached in the AJHL with the Olds Grizzlys from 2004 to 2010 and helped them reach the semifinal round in 2009. The Dragons, who finished in sixth place in the AJHL South Division this year and lost in the first
round to the Calgary Canucks, had parted ways with fifth-year head coach and general manager Brian Curran in February. Hasselberg was with the Ice Flyers as their head coach and manager until February when he was replaced by Rod Aldoff. After winning the SPHL title last year, Aldoff had moved up to the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL but was fired after a bad start to the season.
Inc. will be held Sunday, April 9, at the museum in Battleford at 1 p.m. During the event, which will be open to the public, the inductees to the 2017
Hall of Fame class will be announced. The induction ceremony will take place Aug. 19. More details on the event will be announced.
Annual general meeting set for Baseball Hall of Fame Staff The annual general meeting of the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association
Be our Guest!! The Battlefords Humane Society presents
Beauty and The Beasts Magical Evening 2017 Fundraising Dinner and Auction
Saturday, April 29th, 2017
Gold Ridge Centre Cocktails & Appetizers Tickets: $50 each or 6:00 p.m. a table of 10 for $450 Supper - 7:00 p.m. Live Auction to follow Silent Auction will run all evening
Contact Terry Blanchette at NuFloors 306-445-8169 or Michelle Spark at the Shelter 306-446-2700 or 306-937-6369
Close competiton was a common sight at the NationsWEST Field House on March 25 during the Saskatchewan Judo Provincials. Photo by Averil Hall
By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter
In the first major event they’ve ever hosted, the Battlefords Judo Club passed the test with flying colours. A total of 169 competitors came to the NationsWEST Field House on March 25 for the 2017 Saskatchewan Judo Provincials, which featured 13 clubs from around the province battling it out to reach the podium. “We’re really happy with how well the event went over,” sensei Mel Kozlowski said. “Everyone that visited here was happy with how things went and we had a ton of local volunteers. “What I was really happy with was how many people that were outside of the judo community came to help out. They never really had much of a break during the day, but to see them chipping in throughout the day was great to see.” The provincial championships were also considered to be a test run for the
club before they play host to the judo competition at the Saskatchewan Winter Games next February. “We were able to work out the kinks for things like registration and how much time we will need to have between matches for everything to run smoothly,” Kozlowski said. “For the volunteers, we also gave them some experience in timekeeping and scorekeeping, as those are roles we’ll need to fill for the Winter Games. “We also learned just how great a facility we have at the NationsWEST Field House. We had lots of room for the competitors and there was a lots of places where the spectators could watch from.” The Battleford Judo Club came in third place overall in the final standings, as they won 17 gold medals, three silver medals and a pair of bronze medals. “To see us win that many medals and have everyone do well was awesome,” Kozlowski said. “I was really happy with how Bradley Byl did.
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It was his first-ever competition and he won a gold medal in the under-14 66+ kilogram category.” The next major event for the club won’t be until May 25 to 28, when they’ll have members taking part in the national championships at the Olympic Oval in Calgary. “We’re still figuring out who will go for sure, but right now we have Grace and Nate Burton confirmed for the event,” Kozlowski said. “Grace went a year ago, but this will be a whole new experience for Nate, so it should be a huge eye-opener for him. “As they get ready for the nationals, we’ll be focusing on finding some comfort with their techniques and their strategy, as they’ll go up against some of the best athletes in Canada. I’m sure we’ll have them get a little bit of rest as well, as they’ve both had a pretty hectic season up to this point.” A full list of the medal winners from the Battleford Judo Club can be found on the News-Optimist website.
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OBITUARIES IRA BERT WHITCOMB APRIL 7, 1938 – MARCH 23, 2017 The family of Ira Bert Whitcomb is saddened to announce his passing on March 23, 2017. Ira was predeceased by his parents, Ellen and Bert Whitcomb of Saskatoon, and his brother, Lee. Ira leaves to mourn his loving wife of 50 years, Dorothy, his daughter, Ellen and his son, Wyatt, his two grandsons, Ryan and Dante Whitcomb, as well a niece, nephews and cousins. Ira was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren and bored many acquaintances with his stories of their accomplishments. Ira experienced many interesting occupations, including several successful business ventures. He was very proud to have the Canadian Coast Guard issue his Passenger Ferry Salt Water Masters Licence. He finished his working career as the licensed master on the Sidney and Portland Islands Parks Ferry, a labour of love. Interment will be beside his parents in the family burial plot in Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon, at a later date. Donations may be made to the Cancer Foundation, Kidney Foundation or charity of your choice. ___________________________________________________ HOFFMAN: Wayne Robert Hoffman, born February 5, 1947 at Medicine Hat, Alberta to Theodore Hoffman and Mathilda Koch, passed away February 2, 2017 in North Battleford, Sask. Wayne is survived by his wife of 46 years Gisele (nee Hebert), his children Derrick & Erin (Evan & Brantley) (North Battleford), Chelsea & Geno Froese (Swift Current); Mother, Matilda (Tilly) - Medicine Hat, AB; Sisters, Kathy & Jim Schneider (Cameron, David, Lauren) - Edmonton, AB, Joanne Hoffman (Landen, Aaron, Nicolas Strube) - Calgary, AB; Nephew – Travis Hoffman (Saskatoon); Niece – Raelynn Hoffman (Calgary); Sister’s-in-law: Florette Crawford, Edmonton, Rosalie (Jerry) Frass, Regina, Trudy (Mike) Carriere, Calgary, Suzanne (Grant) Carlson – Outlook; Brother’s-in-law: Daniel (Linda) Hebert – Sherwood Park, Raymond (Linda) Hebert – North Battleford, Edward (Michele) Hebert – Sherwood Park; Numerous Nieces & Nephews. Predeceased by: Father – Theodore (Ted) Hoffman; Brother – Russell Hoffman; Sister-in-law – Linda Hoffman; Brother & Sister In Laws – Frank & Arlene Hebert; Allen Crawford. Service Of Celebration & Thanksgiving For Wayne’s Life was held Monday, March 6, 2017 - 2:00 pm at St. Joseph Calasanctius Roman Catholic Church – North Battleford, Sk. Honour Guard was formed by the K-40 & K-ettes of the Battlefords. Honorary Pallbearers were Better Home & Gardens Real Estate Agents & Staff. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. Card of Thanks Thank-you to Father Nestor Gregoire, Reverend Roger Lavoie, the Cross and Urn Bearers, Readers, the Offertory Gift Bearers, Pianist Glenn Goodman and Soloist Robert MacKay for making the Memorial Service so special. Special Thanks to Eulogist Wayne Standbrook for the awesome way you walked us through Wayne’s 69 + years of his life. After Graduating from Business College, Wayne started his Career in Management with Woolworths then Woolco taking him to various cities in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In 1975, Wayne changed professions and became a Real Estate Agent and Property Manager in the Battlefords - spent 41 years doing what he loved. Wayne was an active member of Kinsmen & K-40 for 47 years. Also a member of the Legion and of the former Battlefords Union Hospital Board and was then appointed to the Prairie North Health Region Board. Wayne loved golfing and playing musical Instruments but most of all, he loved his family, friends and his community. Thanks to Bob MacKay & the staff at the Battlefords Funeral Service for their professional manor and kindness bestowed on the family. Thanks goes out to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Clergy & Staff for your assistance & guidance. Thanks to everyone who brought gifts of Food, Flowers, Cards, Donations in lieu and offered words of sympathy and encouragement; and a big Thanks to the Gold Eagle Events Centre Staff for the lunch they served following the Service. ___________________________________________________
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FOR SALE - MISC 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.
OBITUARIES HOEY: In Loving Memory of Patricia Elizabeth Hoey, born October 13, 1937 at Kinistino, SK., passed away March 19, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Pat is survived by her loving children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Deborah Patricia (Mark) Toole & family: Meaghen (Erikk) Isfeld Hudson; Erin; Daryl Clifford (Glenda) Hoey & family: Jennifer (Jay) Simpson - Emmalee, MacKenzie & Alex, Cheryl (Aaron) Long - Amy; Allan Marshall (Lorraine) Hoey & family: Ashley & Marshall. Predeceased by her parents: John Henry & Edith Sarah Marshall; brother, Bill Marshall. Celebration Of Life was held on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from Third Avenue United Church, North Battleford, SK with Officiant Rev. Frances Patterson. Shared Memories were given by Maureen Bain. Music Ministry: Glenn Goodman - Organist/Pianist; Third Avenue Sanctuary Choir; Ilene Wettergreen – Director - “Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace” & “The Lord’s Prayer”; Hymn Selections: “How Great Thou Art”, “In The Garden” & “In The Bulb There Is A Flower”. Nurses Honor Guard were Friends representing Mom’s Profession. Honourary Pallbearers were All who loved and shared Mom’s life. Urn Bearers were Deborah, Daryl and Allan. Private Inurnment was at Prairie Willows Interment Garden City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________
FUNERAL SERVICES
Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium 2741 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK
306-445-7570
Trevor Watts - Director/Owner
The Battlefords only Locally Owned Funeral Provider
“The only crematorium in the Battlefords area” Traditional Casket Burial and Cremation Services Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion Counsellor for Bronze and Granite Memorials Free pre-planning guides available, assistance with pre-planning services
www. eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca
newsoptimist.ca
your news all the time and online
REACH OVER 500,000 Saskatchewan Readers Each Week! Blanket Classifieds are carried in 72 community newspapers, which reach over 450 communities including 14 cities. P: 306-649-1405 E: classifieds@swna.com W: www.swna.com The Strength is in Community Newspapers! SERVICES FOR HIRE Rob’s Lawn and Yard Care. Grass cutting, roto tilling, power raking, general yard maintenance. Book early! Phone 306-445-2736 or 306-441-5677.
FOR SALE - MISC HARDY TREE, SHRUB, and berry seedlings delivered. Order online at www.treetime.ca or call 1-866873-3846. New growth guaranteed. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.
LIVESTOCK 50 Black Angus & Red Angus 2 yr.old bulls. Low Birth and performance bloodlines. Semen tested full performance information, Board, delivery available. Rob Garner Simpson Sk. 306 946 7946 Black and Red Yearling and 2yr. old Angus Bulls on moderate growing ration - performance info available. Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards. Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK. Phone 306-441-0946 or 306-3424407. www.valleyhillsangus.com For sale 3 year old Black angus bull. Walter Tait 306-892-2119 or 306-441-4776. For sale black angus bulls and heffers. Call Walter Tait 306-8922119. For Sale: Registered yearling Charolais Bulls. Phone Larry at 306-883-2169, evenings. Spiritwood, SK.
On Farm Slaughter
I will travel to your farm to slaughter beef. Call 306-386-7874. Purebred Gelbvieh bulls red and black yearlings. Barry Davisson 306-228-7793 Purebred yearling Charolais Bulls for sale, all are polled, will be semen tested and delivered. Contact Darlene at 306-389-4605. Darlene and Dorothy Voegeli at Maymont, SK.
BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
CALL 306-445-7261 ANNOUNCEMENTS
Professional
D I R E C T O R Y SWANSON GRYBA & COMPANY
Chartered Professional Accountants 1282 - 101st Street North Battleford, Sask. Telephone 306-445-0488 Facsimile 306-446-3155 -PARTNERSGarth Swanson, CPA, CA Greg Gryba, CPA, CA
CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS
300 - 1291 102nd Street North Battleford, SK, S9A 3V4
Phone: 306-445-6234 Fax: 306-445-0245 PARTNERS
Suzanne L. Odishaw, CPA, CA Jacques la Cock, CPA, CA Derek Sieben, CPA, CA Stephen Mann, CPA, CA
Let Us Help You Keep Your Business Rolling! PLACE YOUR AD ON THIS PAGE
CALL 306-445-7261
Fax: 306-445-1977 Email: newsoptimist.sales@sasktel.net
PAGE 12 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Hip or knee replacement? Other medical conditions that lead to Restrictions in Walking or Dressing? The disability tax credit allows for a:
$2,500
Yearly Tax Credit
$40,000
Lump Sum Refund and Rebates For Expert Help
1-844-453-5372 STEEL BUILDINGS/GRANARIES STEEL BUILDING SALE ...”PRICED TO SELL!” 20X21 $5,997 Front & Back Walls Included. 30X33 $7,339 No Ends Included 35X37 $11,782 One End Wall Included. Check Out www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036
35 lines
LAND FOR SALE PrairieSky Royalty Ltd. is a publicly-traded company in Calgary that acquires oil & gas fee title and royalty interests at fair market value. To receive a cash offer, call 587293-4055 or visit www.prairiesky.com/Selling-Your-Royalties.
FARMLAND WANTED NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES North - 10 1/4’s North East - 14 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 57 1/4’s West - 50 1/4’s Central - 219 1/4’s South - 100 1/4’s South East - 46 1/4’s South West - 65 1/4’s PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE
CANADIAN MANUFACTURED MODULAR HOMES -multi section, single section, lake houses, and duplex family units LARGE INVENTORY TO CHOOSE FROM OR FACTORY ORDER TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS Selling and Servicing Across Western Canada for Over 40 Years! 1.800.249.3969 Check out our inventory at www.medallion-homes.ca Hwy 2 South Prince Albert
TUESDAY’S BEST
ONLINE
www.newsoptimist.ca
SUITES FOR RENT
APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT INDEPENDENT ADULT LIVING apartments in Martensville, SK. Spend your retirement years in a community close to family/friends in the Saskatoon area that has large city services and small town safety and charm. 1 and 2 bedroom suites available. More information at www.chateauvilla.ca www.chateauvilla.ca, 306-2814475 or chateauvilla@sasktel.net.
DUPLEXES FOR RENT Westside quiet neighbourhood small Duplex for Rent. $625 plus utilities, references a must, available Immediately. Call 306446-2346 or 306-317-6805.
HOUSES FOR RENT Three BR/1BA, located on quiet Street in Battleford. Looking for employed, quiet/non-smoking adults only. No Pets! Available now. $1000.00 per month + security deposit. Utilities not included (landlord pays water) Call 306445-6694 to view, leave message if no answer. Features of this home include: Large deck with view of River Valley, 5 large appliances, Central Air, Off street parking.
Available 1 bedroom suite. F/S/W/D utilities included $750 per month. No pets and no smoking. Reference required. Available immediately. Call or text (306) 4801347.
One Bedroom Suite in adult complex! Reno’d, No pets, No children. Available May 1st. $600 Security, $ 600 Rent. Call to view 306-4812836
FEED & SEED
Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM
Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @
www.westerncommodities.ca
Two bedroom house for rent. $850 a month + damage deposit required. Small detached garage Call for details 306-481-6464.
NOTICES / NOMINATIONS
PUBLIC NOTICE Request for Proposals—Food Service Concession At
Fort Battleford National Historic Site Request for Proposal documents outlining instructions for submission of Proposals for the management, operation and maintenance of a food service concession at Fort Battleford National Historic Site are available to interested parties on or after the 29th day of March, 2017.
FEED & SEED FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Free Delivery! Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-863-2900. NORTH EAST PRAIRIE GRAIN INC. Currently Buying: Soybeans, Feed Barley, Wheat and Oats. OFFERING: Competitive Prices, On Farm Pickup & Prompt Payment! CALL: 1-306-873-3551, WEBSITE: neprairiegrain.com
HEATED CANOLA WANTED!! - GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!! - BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!! HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252
AUTO MISCELLANEOUS Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks. Lots of trucks... Dodge... GMC... Ford... Imports... 1/2 ton to 3 tons... We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260. Lloydminster.
HEALTH SERVICES CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - Attention Saskatchewan residents: Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessmen
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your workat-home career today! Peter’s Bros. Paving, south Okanagan paving company seeking experienced paving personnel (min. 3 years) for their highway division throughout BC. Relocation allowance may be available. Competitive wage $24.00 to $31.00 per hour plus benefits, full time seasonal. Please send resume to petersbros@shaw.ca
A briefing session and site orientation will be held on the 7th day of April, 2017 at 2:00 pm at Fort Battleford National Historic Site to review the proposal specifications and
Lake Country Co-op is currently accepting applications for a:
answer any questions regarding this Request for Proposals. In order for a Proposal to be considered, the Proponent or a representative of the Proponent must attend the briefing
HOME CENTRE MANAGER in Big River and a BUILDING MATERIALS MANAGER in Prince Albert.
session. Proposals will be received up to the 22nd day of April, 2017. For more information and proposal instructions, please contact Adriana Bacheschi at Email: Adriana.bacheschi@pc.gc.ca Phone: 306.423.6227 (aussi disponible en français)
Primary Job Functions Provide prompt personalized Legendary Service to all of our members and guests. Responsible for leading the overall operation of the Home Centre/ Building Materials department. Previous lumber and/or estimating experience in a retail environment with management experience is required. If you are looking for an exciting opportunity, Lake Country Co-op is a company that provides a safe and FUN work environment complete with a comprehensive benefits plan, competitive salary, an employer matched pension and many career opportunities. If you are excited to join our team, please send your cover letter and resume to: matthew.stenerson@ lakecountrycoop.ca.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 13
Finding inspiration from Vimy Battle survivors Submitted The Battle of Vimy Ridge may have been 100 years ago, but it continues to have modern-day lessons for amputees like Rob Larman and Tiffany Ross of Toronto. Larman, who lost his leg at the age of 14 when friends dared him to jump a train, now directs The War Amps PLAYSAFE Program, while Tiffany Ross, 10, was born a left arm amputee and is now a member of the The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program. To mark the Vimy anniversary, they laid a rose
Rob Larman and Tiffany Ross lay a rose at the grave of Curley Christian to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and pay tribute to the war amputee veterans who started The War Amps. Photo submitted
at the grave of Ethelbert “Curley” Christian at Toronto’s Prospect Cemetery, in honour of the remarkable sacrifice Christian made at Vimy that continues to inspire young amputees today. Christian lost all four limbs in the Vimy Battle and is believed to be the only quadruple amputee to have survived the First World War. Despite his grievous injuries, he became a leading member of the newly established War Amputations of Canada and even returned to the battlefield for the dedication of the Vimy Memorial in 1936.
COMING EVENTS
Saturday, April 8
Borden Bowling Banquet & Silent Auction at the Borden Community Centre at 5:30 p.m.
for more community events
Community Events Calendar ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
Please call our 24 hour helpline at 306-446-6166 for support or information.
ALANON FAMILY GROUPS
If someone’s drinking troubles you attending Alanon Family Group provides understanding and support. Meetings Monday at 7:00 p.m. and Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, corner of 15th Ave. & 108th Street. Contacts 306-937-7765, 306-937-7289 or 306-441-9324.
Mondays, March 13 - April 10
Live Well with Chronic Conditions Workshop. 11:00 am at the Alex Dillabough Center, Battleford. Self-management program for individuals with chronic or ongoing health conditions. Topics discussed include: goal setting, healthy eating, exercise and activity, problem solving, decision making, communication. Call 306-446-8613 to register. Workshop runs for 6 consecutive weeks.
Sunday, April 9
Monday, April 10
Adult LEGO Night - Why should kids have all the fun? Come join us as we relive our childhood with activities that are just as fun now as they were then for adults and teens at the North Battleford Library from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 11
Seniors Fun Day at St. Joseph Hall, 942 - 98th Street from 2:00 4:00 p.m. Entertainment by Charlie Baillargeon. Bingo and lunch. All seniors welcome.
Tuesday, April 11
Borden Senior’s Cronkinole Tournament in the Club Room at 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 12
Borden Friendship Club Annual Meeting in the Club Room at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 15
Easter Egg Hunt - Kids Drop In Easter Egg Hunt at the North Battleford Library from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Monday, April 17
Tuesdays, March 14 - April 11
Wednesdays, March 29 - May 31
Play with Puppets on the Green Screen - join the children’s department for some fun filled action at the North Battleford Library starting at 3:00 p.m.
Time for Tots at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 a.m. at the North Battleford Library. Come and enjoy 30 minutes of simple stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 18 months to 3 years and their parents or caregivers.
Thursdays, April 6 & 13
LEGO Club at the North Battleford Library from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Join our Kids Lego Club where you can create, build and use your imagination. Lego provided.
Friday, April 7
English Style Fish & Chips at the Royal Canadian Legion #70, 1352 - 100th Street from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. 225 Advance tickets only phone 306-445-2173.
Friday, April 7
Tales and More at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 - 11:30 a.m. Come and enjoy 45 minutes of stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 3 to 5 years.
Saturdays, April 1, May 6, June 10, July 8
Parenting after separation and divorce program from 9:00 am to 3:00 p.m. Registration is mandatory. There is no fee for these sessions. To register call 1-877-964-5501. Location will be advised when you register.
Friday, March 24 - April 28
Youth Drop-In Gym Night for ages 13 - 19 at McKitrick School Gym, North Battleford from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. For more information contact Kayla at 306-441-0257.
Saturday, April 8
Line, Design & Loosening Up! This workshop is focused on using the principles and elements of design in a playful way to create very individual and dynamic artwork. Often we begin our work with preconceived ideas of how we want it to turn out and forget to play and interact intuitively with the materials to see where the process leads us. This workshop is about opening up to the adventure. These free workshops run from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., all supplies included. Everyone welcome but must pre-register at the North Battleford Library or call 306-445-3206.
Last week’s News-Optimist online poll: • Pleased to see the deficit situation is being addressed 30%
Easter EggBot Fun - Join us at the North Battleford Library to design, create and play with our new eggbot. The EggBot is a friendly art robot that can draw on egg-shaped objects from the size of ping pong ball to that of a small grapefruit. Choose from several different patterns and colours and get creative. Easter fun doesn’t have to end quite yet at 3:00 p.m.
Lenten Lunch Series 2017 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church 12:00 noon. All lunches are at St. Paul’s Anglican Church Hall 1302-99th Street, North Battleford. Everyone Welcome.
News-Optimist.ca What is your reaction to the provincial budget?
Girl Guide Cookies Blitz at the Discover Co-op Mall at 1:00 p.m. and door to door in select neighborhoods in the Battlefords.
www.newsoptimist.ca
He adds that laying a rose at Christian’s grave on behalf of The War Amps is both a way to honour him as a tremendous role model for amputees, and to put a face to the many Canadian soldiers who lost limbs at Vimy Ridge. “These young men showed great bravery both in fighting for their country and in readjusting to their new lives as amputees,” said Larman. “Through The War Amps, we will continue the work and the example left by war amputee veterans like Curley going long into the future.”
Sunday, April 9
St. Joseph Knights of Columbus Council #7336 Sunday Brunch at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 1942 - 98th Street, North Battleford from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Preschoolers free. Everyone welcome.
Visit our website
“Curley Christian passed away in 1954, but he continues to have a legendary status in The War Amps for how he overcame his amputations, particularly at a time when disability was very much a hidden and taboo subject,” says Larman. “Curley was there to offer assurance and advice to the Second World War amputees from someone who had been there, and after my accident, those veterans did the same for me. Now we older amputees pass along this support and legacy to young amputees like Tiffany,” says Larman.
Monday, April 17
Tuesday, April 18
Borden Senior’s Kaiser Tournament in the Club Room at 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 18
Play with Puppets on the Green Screen - Join the children’s department for some fun filled action starting at 3:00 p.m. we will be playing with puppets on the new green screen at the North Battleford Library for children and teens.
Wednesday, April 19
Unbelieva-Bubble Bubble Show - join Dee Dee Darling’s, Carisa Hendrix, the amazing children’s performer, for a creative and highly interactive show of mind-blowing bubble magic. Children will learn all about the science behind the bubble-smiting fun at the North Battleford Library at 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 20
Makerspace Play Date - join us at the North Battleford Library to play with some of the newest games, robots and maker kits to join the Library. From beginning robotics to computing, we’ve got something form everyone starting at 3:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 26
Borden Senior’s Potluck Supper & Birthdays in the Club Room at 5:45 p.m.
Saturday, April 29
Topline Social Dance Club - Gold Tones at the North Battleford Royal Canadian Legion Hall, 1352 - 100th Street from 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 midnight. Lunch served. Min. age 19. Dress casual. Phone Sharon at 306-446-0446, Leela 306-445-7240 or Jean 306-445-8815.
Sunday, April 30
Borden Dance Club Recital in Borden Community Centre at 2:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, August 5 & 6
Paynton History Book Launch - RSVP for Paynton History Book Launch by March 31 or to preorder books or CD’s contact Enola Valliere 306-895-4303 or Marie Ferguson 306-895-4825, or payntonhistorybook @outlook.com. Saturday Performance - 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Saturday Supper/Social 6:00 p.m. Sunday Pancake Breakfast 9:30 a.m.
This section, which will appear weekly in Tuesday's News-Optimist and Thursday’s Regional Optimist, is provided free-of-charge to non-profit organizations. To list the Community Calendar please call News-Optimist at 306-445-7261 or fax the information to 306-445-3223. Please provide complete information including event, time, date and location. Although we will do our utmost to make sure your event appears in this section, News-Optimist does not guarantee all submissions will appear. Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m. Thursday prior for Tuesday's & Thursday’s publication.
• Not thrilled, but tax hikes are unavoidable 15% • Unhappy about the end of STC 5% • Not happy at all about the PST going up 4% • I hate the entire budget! 46%
This week’s News-Optimist online poll: What do you use the library for? • Books • E-books; I like saving myself a trip • DVDs; it’s an affordable way to watch movies • CDs • Internet access
Visit www.newsoptimist.ca Follow Battlefords News-Optimist on Facebook and BfordsNewsOpt on Twitter MEETINGS
ANNUAL MEETING
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Co-op Café Territorial Place Mall Supper - 6:00 pm Meeting - 7:00 pm Advance Meal Tickets - $6.00 Day of Meeting - $7.00 Tickets available at the Administration Office, Pharmacy, Agro Centre, Glaslyn & Radisson
- Board of Directors Report - Financial Statement - Audit Report - Announcement of 2016 Allocations - Amendment to Bylaw 22(c) - Joint Memberships
DISCOVERY
PAGE 14 - Tuesday, April 4, 2017
E NO. 757 Across 1. Government agency ruling Soviet camps 6. Boys 10. Acad. 14. Throat dangler 15. Sundae topper, perhaps 16. Jaywalking, e.g. 17. OK, in a way 18. Bill collector? 19. Blockhead 20. Weariness of body from strain 22. Adjutant 23. Drink from a dish 24. A trader who deals with animals hides
Puzzle Solution
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26. Mill output 29. Static ___ 31. “You there?” 32. Useful 36. Biblical birthright seller 37. “Cut it out!” 38. Drag 39. Structures created by worms 41. Bluish gray 42. Spoonful, say 43. Blinds 44. On dry land 47. A.T.M. need 48. Farm soil 49. Causing to grow thin 56. “Major” animal 57. “... happily ___ after” 58. Electric dart shooter 59. Advanced 60. Adam’s apple spot 61. Antipasto morsel 62. A chorus line Press Copyright © 2015, Penny 63. Cafeteria carrier 64. Alterfind
28.Take it SS on the ____ dge’s 55.Dogs and ncern 31.Made holy Down cats 1. Deceive gnal assent 32.Clan 56.Fountain 2. Eye layer s ____ 34.Turf 3. Big galoots aft animals 35.Stags and 4. “Ah, 57.Young me!” adult bucks t temper 38.Foot parts oderately DOWN d 1. Shy 39.Polite chap cade unit Woodsman’s 40.Winding In2.defence of the bud- health hospital of the prov- this province, Mr. SpeakBy John Cairns curves implement get in the legislature last ince of Saskatchewan, Mr. er, regardless of political ort-term job Staff Reporter Minister of Speaker. Where was the stripe, regardless of party. 41.Coin side Wednesday, 3. Caribbean, ne ____ While much of the talk Energy and Resources NDP on this?” said Dun- It should not have taken e.g. who is the can. 44.Hobo ernate about the 2017 budget has Dustin Duncan, 100 years.” 4. Registers focused on cuts, a major 46.MGM’s “I don’t think there’s In the transcript from sitting MLA for Weyburnt the best project for North Battlmany hospitals in this Hansard, Duncan pointed Big Muddy, roasted the trademark 5. Close, once eford continues to receive NDP opposition for failing province that had to wait to the time period of 20046. Adjust rgestfunding. 47.Glass part to come throughto on fund- till they were nearly 100 05 when revenue hit $6.59 surroundings mmal That is the 48.Effortless $155 million ing for Sask. Hospital when years old to be replaced, billion under the NDP govSaskatchewan they 7. wereUnit in power. except for the mental hos- ernment. of heat ose for the new52.Resting Hospital/integrated cor“Mr. Deputy Speaker, pital in this province. And I “And yet there was 8. Happen d bird 53.Actinlike rectional facility North $155 million to continueCROSSWORD think that’s aPUZZLE shame onANSWERS the no money for the SaskAMERICAN SPELLING lf ofBattleford. twenty 54.Detective’s construction 9. Dates on the mentalUSErecord of … the history of atchewan Hospital in North
50. Affirm 51. Areas in which large intestines begin 52. A fisherman may spin one
53. Egyptian fertility goddess 54. “Scream” star Campbell 55. Got bigger
Battleford, for those truly in the shadows of life, to use the member from Riversdale for her moral test on a budget, Mr. Speaker. No money for that project from the members opposite,” said Duncan. “So in 2004-05 … the members opposite had record revenue of $6.59 billion. They had no money for the mental health hospital in North Battleford. At that time it was like 95 years old, Mr. Speaker. No money for it. But they did, as a strategic priority, have $50 million per year for something called Investment Saskatchewan.
Now I know the member from Prince Albert across the way gave a speech a couple of weeks ago that said we need more Crown corporations, so she’ll love this. The members opposite had no money in a year of record revenue, no money for the mental health hospital in North Battleford, but they had $50 million per year for Investment Saskatchewan for, ‘… commercial … opportunities with significant wealth and employment growth potential.’ Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we call that the private sector.”
Duncan roasts NDP over Sask. Hospital funding
Professional Business & Service Serving Our Rural Communities
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SGI focus on vulnerable road users in April Staff
As temperatures increase, more people will be out walking and riding. SGI and law enforcement will be focusing on the safety of vulnerable road users throughout April, according to an SGI press relese. This will include dangerous traffic behaviours by pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, as well as dangerous actions towards them by drivers. Police will be watching for: • pedestrians crossing the street before safe • cyclists disobeying traffic signs and lights • motorcyclists not wearing the proper gear or following the rules of the road • Police will also be watching for drivers not sharing the road safely with vulnerable road users “Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists don’t have airbags to protect themselves in a collision so drivers should pay extra attention near intersections and give them the room they need to be safe,” said Earl Cameron, executive vice-president of the Auto Fund. “Vulnerable road users also need to follow the rules of the road and remember they are smaller – drivers may not see them. As a vulnerable road user, even if you have the right of way, make sure drivers see you before entering their path.” Vulnerable road uses have a higher risk of injury or death if involved in a collision with a vehicle. According to SGI’s confirmed 2015 statistics, 15 pedestrians, one cyclist and four motorcyclists were killed in Saskatchewan collisions, and 536 more people were injured.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017 - PAGE 15
Discovering more about why we do what we do Motivation is what moves us to a certain action or behaviour. Some actions are a result of our physical condition, or our own thoughts and feelings. Other times the factors come from the outside, our family, the culture, present circumstances and so on. Some motives raise more questions than they answer. In 1923, when mountain climber George Mallory was about to attempt a climb of Mount Everest, he was asked why he wanted to do it. He replied, “Because it’s there.” (Incidentally, he died on the mountain, and his body was not located for 75 years.) Bank robber Willie Sutton said, “I rob banks because that’s where the money is.” Baseball Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle said, “I have to play ball, it’s the only thing I know.” When it comes to understanding why we do what we do, there are almost as many theories about it as there are human motives. American author Napoleon Hill distinguished 10 human motives or desires: self preservation, love, fear, sex, life after death, freedom of body and mind, anger, hate, recognition or self expression and material gain. I’d likely add the desire to discover and learn, to
see connections between things and bring order out of chaos. Further, each of us consciously or unconsciously strives to understand who we are, why we are here and where we are heading. The evolutionist says such questions have no meaning, because our existence is merely a matter of a chance or accident. That’s a prescription for hopelessness and despair. But the Christian has a different answer. The Bible declares, “Of Him [the Lord] and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever.” (Rom. 11:36) “Of Him:” that tells us God created us, and all that is; “Through Him:” He sustains His universe. And “To Him: all of human history finds it final consummation in Him. The reason behind all this – God’s motivation, if you will – is His own honour and glory. “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” (Rev. 4:11) When human sin enters the picture, this discussion gains a whole other dimension. God’s Word warns us that “the wages of sin is death.” (Rom. 6:23) But the Lord was unwilling to leave things that way. In love, He sent His beloved Son to effect our
Robert Cottrill, B.A., B.R.E. http://wordwisehymns.com/ www.Wordwise‐Bible‐Studies.com
rescue. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son [to die on the cross], that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (Jn. 3:16) That saving work
provides a more direct and personal motivation to praise the Lord, and share the good news of the gospel with others. As the Apostle Paul put it, “The life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in
Thirsty spirit For us Wet Coast dwellers (no, that’s not a spelling error), today was a day to celebrate. It didn’t rain! Not only that, the sun shone and the wind, gentle and warm, coddled the laundry. Today I was finally reminded of the fragrance of bedding dried out on the line. This winter has been one unlike any we’ve encountered since moving to this part of the country more than 13 years ago. It’s a good thing I’m not superstitious or
the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Gal. 2:20) Peter speaks to those going through a time of persecution, and encourages them to stand firm for Christ, “whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.” (I Pet. 1:8) Albert Allen Ketchum (1894-1982) was a student at Moody Bible Institute, in Chicago, in 1923, when he wrote the words and music for a song expressing his love and devo-
melted snow, parts of the prairies face the spectre of possible drought. The land cries out with thirst. All this was made personal this week as I pulled a book from my shelf, a treasure that I’ve read several times but almost forgot about until I realized my need for some soul-refreshing I’d have suspected this rain from heaven. would happen and I Come Thirsty by might have fled the place well known author, Max for the last three months. Lucado, discusses some Alas, there’s been no of the symptoms of spiritual thirst, symptoms opportunity for British that are far too easily Columbians to smirk pushed aside, symptoms during this past winter that too often are conand emerging spring. sidered apart from their But while we have true origin, symptoms been awash in rain and
tion to the Saviour. The refrain answers the “why” question, expressing his motivation. “Deep in my heart there’s a gladness; / Jesus has saved me from sin! / Praise to His name, what a Saviour! / Cleansing without and within! / Only a glimpse of His goodness; / That was sufficient for me. / Only one look at the Savior– / Then was my spirit set free. / Why do I sing about Jesus? / Why is He precious to me? / He is my Lord and my Saviour, / Dying, he set me free!”
that cry out for acknowledgement and confession of need. While each of us has responsibilities to tend to, in our attempts to carry on as if the strength to handle life’s challenges depended solely on us, we become parched and thirsty for the life-sustaining grace of God. He invites us to drink deeply. Freely. Daily. “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” John 7:37 May my heart’s soil always be well-watered!
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Remembering the Battle of Vimy Ridge “In those few minutes I witnessed the birth of a nation” — Brigadier-General A.E. Ross, 1936 Submitted
Canadian Byng Boys returning after beating the Germans at Vimy Ridge, May 1917. Photo courtesy Canada Department of National Defence/Library and Archives Canada
On April 9, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, commemorative ceremonies will be held in both Ottawa and in France. While not the most strategically important battle won by the Canadian Corps in the First World War, it’s certainly a defining one. In fact, if there’s a single moment in Canadian history in which Canada’s identity as an independent nation solidified, the victory at Vimy Ridge might well be it. On that fateful day in 1917, Canadian troops succeeded in securing the German-occupied ridge
for the Allies after several failed attempts by the French. However, what really marks the battle as a turning point in our nation’s history is that it was the first time all four divisions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force jointly participated in a battle. Troops from all over the country fought together. The Battle of Vimy Ridge was fought on an Easter Monday in wind, snow and sleet, with the first assault troops advancing up the slope in side-byside formation at 5:30 in the morning. The success of the Canadian combatants can be attributed to a number
of things — meticulous planning, powerful artillery support and extensive training. However, it shouldn’t be forgotten that acts of personal bravery were also paramount. According to war historian Tim Cook, there were “countless acts of sacrifice, as Canadians single-handedly charged machine-gun nests or forced the surrender of Germans in protective dugouts.” There were more than 10,000 casualties in the battle with 3,598 fatalities. Several years after the war was won, France allotted 107 hectares of land atop the former battleground to Canada to be used as a park and war memorial. Unveiled in 1936, the Canadian National Vimy Memorial is engraved with the names of the 11,285 Canadians who were fatally wounded in France during the First World War and who have no other known marked grave. This important beacon of Canadian achievement and unity also decorates the back of our $20 bill.
Firstdegree murder charge Staff A murder charge has been laid in connection to the death of an educational assistant in the Wilkie area. RCMP reported in a news release that Wesley John Veit of the RM of Buffalo has been charged with one count of first-degree murder in relation to the death of Heidi Veit. Heidi Veit, who had worked at McLurg High School in the Living Sky School Division, was found dead Tuesday about five kilometres northeast of Wilkie. Police had sought Wesley Veit as a person of interest in the case. According to the RCMP, he was taken into custody without incident at a residence in the RM of Buffalo at 6:53 p.m. Wednesday. The RCMP are thanking the public and the media for their assistance during the investigation. Veit made his first court appearance in North Battleford Provincial Court Friday.