News Optimist August 29

News

NB fire chief no longer on the job

Sports

First Person Exploits

3

Interesting week for Albers

12

Fight Night for John Cairns

Canadian Talent Wilkinsons to open Dekker Season

2

by John Cairns

Fall sky watch

6

11

By James Edgar

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Volume 110 No. 4

In the news this week

North Battleford, Sask.

Staff Topping the mostread tab on our website is the story about Albert Headrick no longer serving as fire chief and director of protective

services. Headrick began his job Aug. 15, 2013.

At that tine he described himself as a “proactive, results-oriented individual that firmly believes in effective communication and participative type of

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

management style where I get input from staff.” See the story on Page 3.

Also look for the Wilkinsons, together again, as they will be opening the Dekker Centre for the Entertaining Arts

season this week. See Page 2.

The City of North Battleford is looking for provincial assistance after the damage sustained during two summer storms.

See Page 3.

Intersection of Bunce, Hamelin, Clements and 150 This was the scene on Clements Drive Saturday morning as local residents had fun painting the Canada 150 mural at the intersection with Hamelin Street and Bunce Cres. It is part of a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design effort to help reduce traffic offences and speeding in the area. Photo by John Cairns

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PAGE 2 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Wilkinsons to perform ‘all-encompassing’ set at Dekker Centre

By Josh Greschner Staff Reporter

The first chorus of Gram Parsons’ Return of the Grievous Angel ends with the lyrics “Twenty thousand roads I went down, down, down/And they all led me straight back home to you.”

The lines seem to tell the Wilkinsons’ story.

Steven, Amanda and Tyler Wilkinson gained fame as a clean cut family country act in the late nineties and early two thousands. Amanda and Tyler then pursued solo projects and the family was in a TV show, before the siblings performed as the Small Town Pistols in 2012 (while Steve co-wrote some of their tracks).

About playing as the Wilkinsons again, Steve said “I feel like a kid at Christmas.”

“I love these intimate theatre and arts centre shows because we get to interact with the audience, and people make requests from the audience, and it’s just great fun.”

The Wilkinsons are on an eight-date mini-tour across Western Canada, playing a set list that features songs from their early days, along with Amanda’s solo work the Small Town Pistols, and new tracks.

The idea for the tour came after a January show in Winnipeg. The house was packed, and Steve said the band received three standing ovations. Promoter Justin Danyluk told the Wilkinsons there was interest on the prairies and arranged the tour.

Over the phone, Steve

and Tyler have similar sounding voices.

Steve said when Tyler was younger, “we’d get calls to the house from his girlfriend, and I’d pick the phone up and I’d say ‘Hello, how you doing?’ And the first thing I’d get would be ‘Hi baby.’ I said ‘Hold off on that baby just a little bit, this is daddy speaking.’”

Tyler recently returned from Nashville, a city that affected different stages of his career. Steve said the Wilkinsons’ first major label deal came from, in what is almost a stereotypical narrative, an impromptu set performed at The Broken Spoke in the city.

The Wilkinsons now live in Ontario. They keep trailers at the same campground and often play into the morning.

About living in Canada, Tyler said “the healthy competition you have in Nashville is gone. I wouldn’t say there’s less pressure because you have to put more pressure on yourself. You kind of have to be on your own ass the entire time going ‘You know what, if I want to make something happen I got to make it happen.’”

In other ways, there’s less pressure in Ontario.

“If I just want to wake up in the morning and spend the day with my kids I can do that.”

While sometimes viewed as a conservative musical centre, trends in Nashville mirror larger music industry trends. Tyler said he loves albums but he said “there are a lot of people in this industry

Better Plan

Better Life...

who are going ‘We’re not going to record albums, we’re recording EPs,’ and we’re not too far away from people going ‘We’re not recording EPs, we’re recording singles.’”

He said recording singles are usually the better financial option for signed artists.

“You get more bang for your buck because your record label’s going to be putting more money into promoting your single instead of trying to make sure you’re recording a full album.”

While the record industry is in constant flux, touring hasn’t changed much. Neither have prairie audiences.

Steve said the highwater marks for shows he’s ever done happened in Nebraska and Lloydminster.

In some places, “you get a polite golf clap.”

“But out on the prairies they tear the walls down.

That kind of energy you can’t buy, you can’t invent it, and you feed off that when you’re on stage.”

Steve said a new song he wrote with Tyler and Patricia Conroy called Limelight explains what he called “the addiction that we have of being onstage.”

Tyler said it’s not strictly the addiction of getting attention, it’s more the magic that happens onstage during performances “and you’re just taken to a completely different level.”

“If you’ve never experienced it you need to experience it,” Steve said.

“I guarantee once you’ve been onstage you’ll go ‘Oh that’s so cool,’ you have to do it again.”

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Pocket housing title goes from city to operators

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The eight-unit transitional housing at 1322103rd Street is being hailed for its effectiveness in breaking the cycle of homelessness in the Battlefords.

So much so, in fact, that North Battleford Transitional Living Initiative, Inc., who operated the facility over the last three years, now feel they can take on the full title for it.

At council Monday night, a resolution was carried unanimously to that effect. The title for the property and building is being transferred to NBTLI from the City of North Battleford, which has held it up to now.

In speaking to reporters afterwards, Mayor Ryan Bater indicated this was something the city was happy to do.

“It’s a remarkable success story,” said Bater.

“The request from that group was that they felt they matured to the point and were in a good position to accept title to the property.”

At Monday night’s meeting, Sheldon Gattinger, president of NBTLI, was eager to share what he called the “good news” story of the organization.

They had spearheaded the applications for three levels of funding in 2013 for the pocket housing, which was to assist those who were homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The idea was for “transitional” housing, which would enable and support residents to transition into stable independent housing later on.

In most cases, the clients are in the process of leaving high-risk or addictions situations, and are looking to improve their lives through such things as addictions counseling or further education or skills training, among others.

The funding ultimately came through, and the project was completed and opened in October, 2014.

During the last three years NBTLI has held operational authority for the pocket housing facility. NBTLI is governed by a nine-person board and daily running of the eightunit facility is done by a full-time housing coordinator, whose responsibility includes such things as working with the clientele and making sure they are on track with their transitional living plan.

The organization has also built various relationships with other agencies in the community such as The Lighthouse, Social

Services, Prairie North Health addictions counselling, and others.

Gattinger pointed to how effective their initiatives have been.

“We have moved over 20 people from homelessness into … of structured, stable, independent living, in this community or other communities within the province or western Canada,” said Gattinger.

He acknowledged it has been a steep learning curve for the organization. But Gattinger indicated things have progressed to the point where the board feels they can take on the entire responsibility for the pocket housing, and that was behind the request to take over title to the property.

“We feel we have come to the point where maybe we can … take on this project on our own,” said Gattinger.

As for the future, the question came up as to whether NBTLI might want to expand beyond the current eight units, which Gattinger indicated has a waiting list of over 100 people.

Councillor Kent Lindgren asked whether the organization was in a position to be able to build another housing unit.

Gattinger said they were interested.

Continued on Page 3

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Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - PAGE 3

Fire chief Headrick departs

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The city of North Battleford has announced the departure of Albert Headrick as its fire chief and director of protective services.

In a news release Friday afternoon, the city announced they have “come to a mutual agreement” with Headrick, and he has left his employment.

The city has publicly thanked Headrick for “his four years of service since August 2013 as the director of protective services/fire chief and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

During his time as fire chief, Headrick presided over major changes to the fire department. Those included

the introduction of the community safety officer program, as well as the introduction of emergency services responder training involving students from the area’s high schools.

In speaking with the News-Optimist Friday afternoon, Mayor Ryan Bater confirmed that Headrick had left his position. But the mayor did not go into specifics about the reasons why.

“It was just determined that it was in the best interests of the city to have new leadership at this time,” said Bater.

The process for finding a replacement will begin immediately, the mayor said.

“This is one of the most senior positions within the civic government,” said Bater.

“And so we want to have somebody in that position as soon as reasonably possible. However, we don’t want to rush into any hire, either.

We want to have the right person in the role. This is Albert Headrick not just the fire chief, this is also the director of protective services and so they are also responsible for the CSO program. This is a big job, and so we want to get the right person in this position.”

In the interim, the deputy fire chief, Trevor Brice, will handle the duties of leading the department.

City seeks disaster assistance after storms

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

North Battleford is formally seeking disaster assistance from the province in the wake of flooding from a major storm this summer.

City council passed a resolution last week to apply to the Ministry of Government Relations to be designated an eligible assistance area under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program, in connection to the Aug. 8 storm that hit the city.

According to a memo from Stewart Schafer, director of utilities, the Aug. 8 storm was a one-in-25 year event that produced 60 mm of rainfall in sixhour period during the early morning hours.

It was the second major deluge to hit North Battleford in a month; the city was also hit by a one-infive storm event on July 21, which flooded several intersections.

City officials have been on the receiving end of calls from residents impacted by the Aug. 8 storm, with basements and yards receiving the brunt of the damage.

Title transfer Continued from Page 2 “We are at a position as a board, I believe, with the board that we have, to build another unit,” said Gattinger.

But he also said it would be difficult, pointing to the effort that went into getting the first facility built.

“We’re optimistic, and we’re hopeful, but there isn’t anything concrete, that’s for sure.”

In speaking to reporters, Mayor Bater was encouraging of NBTLI’s efforts in the city.

“We know we have housing challenges in North Battleford and this is a force for good to address them.”

As for the talk about adding another facility, the mayor was supportive of the idea. But “it’s really up to them,” Bater said.

“What I’ve seen over the years and especially saw tonight is an organization that’s very responsible about doing things one step at a time.”

“City Hall received 30 calls the day after the storm from residents and property owners who were experiencing flooding,” said Mayor Ryan Bater.

The mayor said he personally spoke to many families who were experiencing flooding and damage.

“This is obviously very emotional for families, it’s a devastating thing to deal with,” said Bater. “If the province is able to determine these properties as eligible for this program, that’s a good thing.”

Among the criteria needed for the city to be

eligible under PDAP: 20 or more residences must have been damaged by the storm; one claimant must have $5,000 or more in damage; the multiple eligible claims must exceed $25,000; and the residences’ insurance provider will not cover the damages caused by the storm event.

According to the PDAP Request for Designation form presented to council Monday, City Manager Jim Puffalt stated that it is assumed each property has had an average of $15,000 in damage. The estimated total loss to private property is listed as $450,000.

The next effort will be to get word out to the public. After the request for designation is approved by the province, the plan is for the city to post information on their website about the process and what’s eligible or not eligible.

Mayor Bater said he hopes that will happen “very soon.”

City administration also plans to get in contact with the residents who had called them about the flooding and let them know about the PDAP application. They also plan to advertise and get the word out to others impacted.

This photo of flooding at 17th Avenue and 101st Street is one of several being submitted to the province as part of city efforts to be designated an eligible assistance area under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program. Photo submitted

Crime stats down, more responsibilities for Sutton

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The second quarter crime statistics as presented by Insp. John Sutherland to North Battleford city council last week show some improvement compared to 2016. For the period April to June, calls for service overall were down from 3,711 to 3,406 this year.

In particular, crime numbers were down in the categories of person offences, business break and enters, Criminal Code

offences, Liquor Acts, provincial traffic offences and impaired operation of a motor vehicle. The drop in provincial traffic offences was significant, from 350 down to 209.

In other news, Sutherland confirmed a new role for community safety coordinator Herb Sutton.

Sutton will be taking on a half-time position as Community Program Coordinator. According to Sutherland’s report submitted to council, Sutton will continue working with the city as their safety co-

ordinator but will also now be assisting the RCMP in developing community policing strategies in the rural area, and in particular working along with the First Nations and the schools in the detachment area.

What this will do for Sutton, Sutherland said, is “give him direct access to our provincial and national community safety resources,” he said.

The RCMP detachment is also continuing to work

with the city’s Community Safety Officers as the expanded “tiered policing” now takes effect in the community.

As of June 1, the RCMP have begun forwarding all calls for service for “nonin-progress” theft under $5,000 and mischief complaints to the CSOs. As of Aug. 17, there have been 53 calls forwarded to the CSOs since June, according to Sutherland’s report. The majority of theft-under and mischief

complaints are those “in progress,” however, which require a uniformed RCMP officer to be present.

Sutherland reported that he is working with the Community Policing Support Team, the community safety co-ordinator and city manager to develop standard operating procedures to integrate the use of the CSOs into community outreach intiatives such as joint foot patrols and having a uniformed presence out in the community.

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PAGE 4 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

John Cairns Leg Watch

Who will lead?

The commentaries offered on this editorial page are intended to provide thought-provoking material for our readers. Contributors’ articles, cartoons or letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any News-Optimist staff.

By John Cairns

So, how did your summer go?

What is normally a quiet time in Saskatchewan politics received a major jolt earlier this month with the announcement on Facebook by Premier Brad Wall that he is departing politics.

The announcement marks the impending end of an era in Saskatchewan and the beginning of a new one, with the installation of a new Sask Party leader and premier in the new year.

Details of how the race would play out over the next several months were revealed following a weekend meeting of the party’s provincial council. They announced a new leader would be chosen at a leadership convention in Saskatoon on Jan. 27, 2018.

The leader will be voted on by Sask. Party members in a one-member, one-vote system. A deadline of Dec. 8 has been set for membership sales.

For candidates, the nomination filing deadline for candidates is Nov. 24, and a filing fee of $25,000 is required. There is a campaign expense limit of $250,000 and all donors who made donations of $250 or more will need to be disclosed.

As well, Patrick Bundrock will take on duties as Electoral Officer for the leadership election, a role he will serve alongside his current position as executive director of the Saskatchewan Party.

“The next few months are going to be busy for the Saskatchewan Party, but they will be historic months,” said Bundrock in a news release. “I look forward to the challenge of leading the party and leadership election organizing committee by running a smooth election process.”

“Anyone who supports the Saskatchewan Party and wants to be part of selecting our next Leader and Premier of Saskatchewan should purchase a Saskatchewan Party membership, which entitles you to vote.”

The previous days saw ramped-up speculation from party members and from political watchers as to who might be in or out of the leadership race.

Two big names from the cabinet quickly ruled themselves out of the running. Deputy Premier Don Morgan and Minister of Energy and Resources Dustin Duncan have both announced they would not be joining the leadership race.

Jim Reiter, MLA for Rosetown-Elrose and Minister of Health, had been expected to run but he, too, decided not to enter the race, citing family reasons.

But there was no shortage of interest from other contenders, and it did not take long for them to start declaring their intentions.

The first out of the gate was Tina Beaudry-Mellor, the first-term MLA for Regina University. Previously a political science professor at the University of Regina, she has served as minister of social services in the Wall cabinet.

If elected, Beaudry-Mellor would be the first female premier in the province’s history.

Soon after came the announcement by Jeremy Harrison on Aug. 19 that he, too, would join the race. Harrison, MLA for Meadow Lake and currently minister of the economy, also has experience from federal politics as a former Member of Parliament.

He has already made clear his campaign will be taking aim at one particular federal policy: the carbon tax.

“I will fight a federally imposed carbon tax with every fibre of my being and with every tool at our prov-

ince’s disposal,” Harrison said in a statement.

“A massive new federal carbon tax will have a devastating impact on our economy. And make no mistake, this is a revenue measure, a way to get money out of your pocket and into the hands of federal politicians and bureaucrats. It will do little to nothing to reduce emissions. As Premier, I will fight Ottawa’s carbon tax with everything we have.”

Harrison made more news Thursday when he put forth a ten-point ethics plan, as well as his proposal for the government to divest itself of the Global Transportation Hub. He made the announcement at what turned into a heated news conference at the legislature, with Harrison repeatedly hammered by reporters with questions on the GTH scandal. While Harrison made the biggest headlines during the early days of the race, it was obvious he also had big baggage to deal with as well.

Among the other names running are Gord Wyant, MLA for Saskatoon Northwest and minister of Justice and Attorney General; and Ken Cheveldayoff, MLA for Saskatoon Willowgrove who has served as Minister of Parks, Culture, Sport and Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission.

Last week, it was reported that Cheveldayoff would officially launch his leadership bid as of Monday. Wyant, meanwhile, launched his bid in Saskatoon on Friday morning.

There is speculation provincial minister of finance Kevin Doherty might also join the leadership race. Reports are that Doherty will not be announcing his final decision on running until after he presents his budget update, which was released Friday.

There has been speculation there might be candidates joining the race from outside cabinet. One name being mentioned is Alanna Koch, whose experience has primarily been in the civil service ranks. Koch is currently deputy minister to Premier Brad Wall and previously served as deputy minister in agriculture. . She was scheduled to make a “special announcement” on her intentions Monday at 11 a.m.

The other name that has been mentioned is Brad Trost, the socially-conservative federal MP for Saskatoon-University who most recently came off a fourth-place finish in the race for the federal Conservative leadership.

Continued on Page 6

Last week’s News-Optimist online poll:

What do you consider the end of summer?

• End of Northwest Territorial Days.

5% • The Labour Day Classic.

22% • Back to School.

64% • Start of the Battlefords North Stars season.

8%

This week’s News-Optimist online poll:

Road rebuilding in downtown North Battleford has been going on now for months. On a scale of 1 to 5, how frustrating has it been for you?

5. I own a business, and I’ve lost a huge amount of income.

4. I work downtown, and the traffic and parking congestion is ridiculous.

3. I have found other, more easily accessible places to do my business.

2. It’s frustrating, but necessary.

1. I never go downtown anyway. No big deal to me.

Published since 1905 Becky Doig Editor

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Josh Greschner Lucas Punkari Reporter Sports Reporter

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Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - PAGE 5

Cairns on Cinema

Wonder Woman a bright spot for an otherwise down summer at the box office

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

We are approaching Labour Day, a date which for so many years was associated with comedy/movie/telethon legend Jerry Lewis, who died earlier this month.

It’s also the weekend that usually marks the end of Summer Blockbuster Season, and 2017 was a more interesting summer than most.

On the one hand, it was filled with quality movies, more so than usual. In particular, several releases scored 90 per cent fresh or more at Rotten Tomatoes.

Among them: Dunkirk, Logan Lucky, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man: Homecoming, War for the Planet of the Apes, Baby Driver, The Big Sick, and others.

There were also a host of other movies scoring over 80 per cent.

Yet despite this seeming embarrassment of riches, we had no end of complaints from moviegoers. Most of them had to do with the number of sequels out there.

Some were real turds this year. Efforts like the latest

Town council notes

Transformers and the latest Pirates of the Caribbean landed with well-publicized thuds.

Same for The Mummy reboot.

Then you had other half-witted ideas like The Emoji Movie, which at one point rated at zero per cent at Rotten Tomatoes before a few brave movie critics emerged to say nice things about it.

Bad word of mouth spread like a B.C. wildfire about these particularly lousy offerings at the movie theatres. A key villain, singled out by the Hollywood studio bosses, was social media. Unfortunately, what ended up happening was that many moviegoers got the impression the offerings at the cinemas this summer weren’t all that good, based on what they were reading on their Twitter feeds and from their Facebook friends.

Making matters worse, you had reports in the media on the weekly box office about how “Pirates” underperformed and how “Cars 3” underperformed, and how “Transformers” underperformed. And so on.

That simply added to the unenthusiasm about Summer

Blockbuster Season.

According to the latest numbers reported, domestic summer revenue is down over 13 per cent, for the worst summer box office revenue in something like 10 years.

A dead month of August, with no potential blockbusters on the release schedule at all, has made a bad situation worse.

It’s as if September has arrived early at the cinemas; or worse yet, October. Yes, the calendar says Labour Day isn’t for a few days yet, but for all intents and purposes summer is already over at the movie theatres. If you’re going to the theatre, though, that’s good: the popcorn line will be shorter.

As for the domestic box office numbers for summer 2017, this is what the numbers are showing over at Box Office Mojo for the top six summer movies as of August 24.

Wonder Woman $404,405,623 Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 $389,251,300 Spider-Man: Homecoming $315,690,278 Despicable Me 3

$252,642,425 Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales $171,876,005 Dunkirk $167,828,683 It should be noted Dunkirk should easily pass “Pirates soon for fifth spot, as it continues to do decent business in theatres.

Still, this list gives you an idea about why folks in charge in Hollywood have reason to be depressed. Only four releases grossed over $200 million in North America for the summer season.

On a more positive note, let’s look at the winners this summer.

In terms of the biggest winner, clearly it was Wonder Woman, which crossed the $400 million mark at the domestic box office and has also crossed the $800 million mark worldwide.

As far as the record book is concerned, its honours include the summer box office title for 2017, the highest gross ever for a DC Extended Universe film, as well as the highest gross ever for a female director (Patty Jenkins).

For a superhero origin film (meaning, the first of the series)

Wonder Woman just broke the all-time domestic record, topping Spider-Man, which had held the mark at $403,706,375.

It’s interesting that the top three movies at the box office this summer were all superhero movies – again. Notably, the haul for Spider-Man: Homecoming proved to be yet another victory for Robert Downey Jr. and Iron Man. With a current haul of $315 million, this marks the sixth time that a movie featuring Iron Man produced a domestic haul of at least $300 million.

To sum up, box office highlights were in short supply this summer. It’s too bad, because there was no shortage of quality movies. There’s already Oscar talk for efforts like Dunkirk and Detroit. And there were some releases that did create a lot of excitement (ie. Wonder Woman).

But overall, the numbers don’t lie.

Better luck in November and December, I guess. (Justice League, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, etc.)

Next up for the movie fans: film festival season (Toronto).

Playground approved, downtown farmer’s market, new threads

By Josh Greschner Staff Reporter

Along with his special constable’s report, Geoff Thompson brought a new uniform to a meeting of Battleford town council Aug. 14.

Thompson’s constable report didn’t feature much

out of the ordinary. Twenty property inspections were underway for untidy and unsightly premises, and 40 are expected once finished.

Thompson said those informed have complied.

Development and Building permits include a rear deck, a deck replacement, a single detached home, and

an accessory office building for auto sales.

Among decisions, the Battlefords Business Association sent council a letter on Aug. 9 asking for the Farmer’s Market to be set up in downtown Battleford and waiving the vendor fee for 2017 and 2018. The decision passed unanimously.

City council notes Aug. 21 meeting

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Here are a few items that came up at the Aug. 21 council meeting in North Battleford.

The summer storms in July and August were a big part of the discussion, with a lot of questions about the terminology. The July 21 rainstorm was described as a one-in-five year event; the Aug. 8 storm a onein-25 year event.

City Manager Jim Puffalt noted that the storms seem to be happening more frequently; the one-in-20 storms seem to be happening at a one-in-five rate.

Director of utilities Stewart Schafer also said they are noticing rainfall intensities starting to increase, and noted the impact that will have on infrastructure.

“Climate change is a real thing now,” said Puffalt.

In announcements, Councillor Kent Lindgren confirmed he will be “trying to run” in the Walk a Mile In Her Shoes event on Sept. 7 to raise money in support of the Battlefords

and Area Sexual Assault Centre.

The City of North Battleford has released its 2016 Public Accounts, as required by statute. That document will be made available on the city’s website at www.cityofnb.ca.

The city has awarded the residential waste collection contract to Loraas

Environmental Services Inc. They were one of four firms who responded to a request for proposal.

Loraas was awarded the contract for a monthly cost per cart of $2.04, with a projected annual cost of $123,575.04 plus taxes based on a total of 5,048 rollout carts.

Waving the fees for farm stands downtown is acceptable as per the policy passed in May regarding farm stands. Farm stands are not permitted to sell food and beverage products for immediate consumption in competition with restaurants. The policy states other restrictions including distracting lights, sounds and actions, hindering pedestrian or vehicular traffic, and the placement of furniture.

The permissions down-

town are the same allowed at the Farmer’s Market that takes place in front of Battleford Furniture.

Installing natural gas for emergency generators will cost more than anticipated, as the price will be $25,000 rather than the expected $10,000. Meanwhile, the 2018 budget allocation will increase from $149,100 to $160,000.

SaskPower work to be performed at the new West Park facility will cost more than anticipated, coming

in at $23,248.79, although the cost is in line with what SaskPower is charging for other work.

1 Stop Playground in Humboldt will build a playground in Battleford West. 1 Stop Playground’s proposal cost $96,583.32 while $100,000 was allocated from the 2017 budget. The town has also been approved for $25,000 for the project under the Community Initiatives Fund.

Completion is expected in the spring of 2018.

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PAGE 6 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Roped into watching the Mayweather-McGregor fight This latest Exploit into the Unknown feature is about my experience attending the Floyd Mayweather Jr.-Conor McGregor superfight.

I should tell you in advance, though, what I attended was actually the screening of the fight at the Dakota Dunes Casino south of Saskatoon. I didn’t actually attend the fight in Las Vegas at all.

Heck, who could afford these ludicrous ticket prices? I learned from some of the other fight fans at the casino that the prices for ringside seats were absolutely ridiculous. According to what was being posted on the Internet, these were selling for something like $80,000.

This wouldn’t surprise me; major boxing fights are infamous for being the types of events that only the “elites” can attend. And there were plenty of celebrities there; names like LeBron James and Jamie Foxx and Steve Harvey, among others.

Since I’m not the “elite,” I spent Saturday night at a casino screening. And even though it was just a TV screening on three big screens at the front, the place was “Standing Room Only.” They even had to cart more chairs into the showroom for people so enough of us could sit down.

These screenings were happening in venues all over North America, and at home on pay-per-view TV. There were venues in North Battleford screening the fight, such as the Blend and Boston Pizza, and Gold Eagle Casino.

But I’m glad I went to Dakota Dunes, and not just because I watched the fight there. While waiting for the fights to start I played the slot machines and came away $50 richer.

So this really did turn out to be the “Money Fight” after all, and not just for Mayweather.

I am not entirely sure how I should approach this column, because there is really nothing spectacular about watching a fight on TV anywhere.

Maybe what this really

John Cairns spent his Saturday night at Dakota Dunes Casino at the Whitecap Dakota First Nation. It was among the many venues that screened the “Money Fight” between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor, which Mayweather won in the 10th round by a TKO. Photo

by John Cairns

is is a story of being a fan of the fights, and my experiences following the sport of boxing over the years.

It really has been sort of a love-hate relationship in many ways.

I really became interested in boxing during the 1980s when you had so many of these personalities in the ring. There were names such as Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler and Thomas “Hit Man” Hearns, and at the heavyweight level you had names such as Larry Holmes and Michael Spinks, and “Iron” Mike Tyson.

Some of the fights were memorable, such as the three-round “war” between Hagler and Hearns that ended with Hearns on the canvas, and the fight in which Leonard came back from retirement to defeat Hagler. Most often, these fights were from Las Vegas, which is really what spurred on my own interest in that glittering desert community.

But over time, the negatives about boxing really became obvious, to me and to other fans. Such as: the corruption. And multiple fight federations and the multiple title belts. On top of that, some of these boxers were criminals.

Who could cheer for that?

Who will lead?

Continued from Page 4 When asked by the media over a week ago if he was interested in running for the Sask Party leadership, Trost said he was not ruling it out.

While there is plenty of time for candidates to decide to run, with a lateNovember deadline, for all practical purposes it is expected they will need to make their intentions known within the next several days. This is especially true for those in

caucus: Premier Brad Wall has publicly indicated that candidates from cabinet have to indicate by Aug. 28 whether they will be running, in order to step aside from those roles during the campaign.

What is notable about the provincial political situation at the moment is that the provincial Saskatchewan Party is not the only one with a leadership race going on.

The provincial New Democrats also are in the

I started losing interest as the personalities of the sport began to leave the scene or even go to jail (Mike Tyson). But there was one particular fight that finished me off.

It was the night Tyson bit off Evander Holyfield’s ear during a heavyweight title fight.

“This is the all-time low point,” I said. I couldn’t muster much enthusiasm for boxing after that, for years.

Meanwhile, you had this rise of the new sport of mixed martial arts, with its no-holds-barred combination of boxing, kicking, and wrestling inside these barbed-wire cages.

Ultimately, under the leadership of Dana White, the UFC gained momentum thanks to a combination of factors, including strong promotions, better organization, some improved regulations, and a multitude of identifiable personalities across its stable of fighters.

It included people like Georges St.-Pierre, whose dominance of the Octagon particularly captured the attention of fight fans throughout Canada.

Most recently, the fan interest focused on Conor McGregor, the dynamic Irishman whose personality dominated inside and outside the ring.

The bottom line is that a lot of “fight” fans decided their interest in fights was the UFC, not boxing.

What brought me back to boxing eventually – and it took a long time – was the emergence of some new personalities of the sport. The fights of Manny Pacquiao got my attention, and so did the dominance of Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the ring.

But it really frustrated the masses that a “super fight” between these two wasn’t happening. People talked about a Mayweather-Pacquiao matchup for years.

When it finally happened, the hype went through the roof, and that was it. I had gone to Dakota Dunes to watch that contest, which Mayweather convincingly won in a

12-round unanimous decision.

I am sure I am not the only one who returned as a fan of boxing, after so many years, because of this fight.

Quite honestly, though, I didn’t think there would be another “super fight” of this magnitude again for a long time. But it happened again for Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor.

Many fans saw it as the logical matchup between the two most dominant fighters in each of their sports. But there were detractors as well.

When the fight was finally confirmed there was no shortage of people who thought this would be a farce, and that Mayweather would destroy the inexperienced McGregor in the boxing ring.

I was one of the skeptics as well. The one thing I found strange right from the get-go was that there was so much hype and interest in the fight, and yet no title was on the line!

Think of it. Mayweather had previously retired, and he had relinquished all his belts. Meanwhile, McGregor was a UFC champion but this would be his first pro boxing match, ever!

They couldn’t promote this as a title fight of any kind, so they billed it as the “Money Fight,” in reference to Mayweather’s nickname “money.” Cynical fans thought it was fitting, because they thought this fight was a big cash grab.

In the end, someone did come up with a “championship belt” to be awarded the winner. But people on social media immediately ridiculed it and compared it to title belts in the WWE. People put up photos of “Million Dollar Man,” Ted DiBiase, wearing a similarlooking belt. Coincidence?

Many fans were sure this “Momey Fight” was something right out of Vince McMahon’s playbook. Contributing to this atmosphere was the fighters’ outrageous “world tour” of cities, where Mayweather and McGregor hurled no end of offensive

midst of a battle for the top job, with MLAs Ryan Meili and Trent Wotherspoon both declaring their intentions to seek the leadership.

Meili had previously run twice for the NDP leadership, coming second both times. Wotherspoon also ran in the 2013 race that was won by Cam Broten.

Following Broten’s defeat in the 2016 election, Wotherspoon took over as leader of the Opposition in what was supposed to be an interim appointment until a permanent leader

was chosen. At the time, Wotherspoon said he would not be running for the fulltime leadership job.

But Wotherspoon had a change of heart. He stepped down from his “interim” role in June to consider a run for the permanent job of NDP leader.

First-term Regina Douglas Park MLA Nicole Sarauer took over as Opposition leader soon after. Wotherspoon finally confirmed last Wednesday that he was indeed joining the NDP race.

There is still plenty of time for other candidates

insults and trash-talk at one another.

There were stories of drama behind the scenes with McGregor’s sparring partner quitting, and about how Mayweather was not taking the fight seriously.

Supposedly, Mayweather was blowing off training sessions so he could be at the Vegas strip club he owned, every night, all week before the fight.

With all this nonsense going on, and with little on the line beyond Mayweather’s chance at an undefeated 50-0 record, why was this such a big deal?

I finally realized it in the late going when I was reading all these MMA news outlets, all of which were covering this boxing match. These were people who covered mixed martial arts for a living, who normally wouldn’t be caught dead near a boxing ring, and yet here they were covering and hyping this boxing match.

At last, it made sense.

This was “MMA versus boxing”! This was the UFC versus “The Money Team” to settle the ultimate unanswered question: which sport had the best fighters?

This was boxing’s biggest star, Mayweather, versus MMA’s biggest star, McGregor. That’s what this was about. Bragging rights were on the line between the fans of one sport and one individual, versus fans of the other.

This was evident even at the Dakota Dunes, where quite a few people there wearing UFC apparel, people who were clearly there because they were cheering on “the UFC.” This was like the AFL versus the NFL in the early Super Bowl years. Just like Joe Namath and the New York Jets, Conor McGregor was going to go in

there at T-Mobile Arena to shock the world and score the biggest upset of all time: a victory for the UFC over boxing.

In fact, there were boxing people who were deathly afraid going into the fight about what would happen if McGregor did pull it off. This might finally finish boxing off for good.

What we ultimately got on Saturday night in Las Vegas wasn’t an upset. Nor was it the “farce” or “carnival” that many expected or feared.

Instead, we got a boxing match, and a compelling one at that.

McGregor seemed very comfortable in the ring as he started the first few rounds firing a flurry of punches, with Mayweather going into a defensive shell.

The on-air commentators were surprised at how good McGregor had looked early on.

But as the fight wore on, Mayweather started to land blows.

It became obvious he was doing to McGregor what he had done to many fighters before him – wearing his opponent down.

In the ninth and 10th rounds, it was obvious McGregor was exhausted and ready to be knocked out. After a final flurry of Mayweather punches in the tenth round, the referee stopped the fight.

Inside the casino showroom at Dakota Dunes, fight fans were cheering and clapping. This was as good a contest as they all could have hoped for. You might say the fans had gotten their “money’s” worth.

Whether you were a boxing fan or an MMA fan, it didn’t really matter.

It was simply a great night to be a fight fan.

to join the race. The new NDP leader will not be in place until May of 2018, which means the Saskatchewan Party will be getting an over three-month head start over the NDP in selecting a leader.

There have been some other high-profile departures over the summer.

One of them was Jennifer Campeau, who resigned her seat in Saskatoon Fairview to take a job in British Columbia with Rio Tinto.

A provincial byelection has been called for Sept.

7, and candidates include Cameron Scott of the Sask

Party, Vicki Mowat of the NDP, Shah Rukh of the Liberals, Taylor Bolin of the Greens and David Prokopchuk of the PCs. The other big news from the summer was the departure of longtime Kindersley MLA Bill Boyd.

One of eight MLAs to form the first caucus for the Sask Party in 1997, Boyd has spent the last months dogged by attacks over his role in Global Transportation Hub land deals while serving as minister of the economy. A date for the Kindersley by-election has not been set yet.

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - PAGE 7

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OBITUARIES GABRUCH: David Gabruch of Saskatoon SK passed away peacefully on August 23, 2017 at the age of 62 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. David was born on October 26, 1954 in North Battleford SK and was raised on the family mixed farm at High Gate just west of Battleford SK. He convocated from the U of S with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1976. In October 1978 he married Sonja Aarrestad and together they raised 3 children, Angela, Ian and Pamela. David spent the majority of his professional career with the Saskatchewan government, but his heart was never far from the farm often returning to help with harvest or tour his cow herd. David had many hobbies. He had a passion for motorcycles and he and Sonja toured most of Canada and the United States on his Honda GoldWing. When his health became such that he could no longer ride, he took up woodworking and loved to craft things for his family. David was a quiet man of strong faith and loved to minister to the local and universal Body of Christ. David is survived by Sonja, his loving wife of 38 years; his children Angela (Errol) Vaadeland and their children Gauge, Alixandra, Kassidy and a fourth grandchild due this fall, Ian and Pamela; his mother Lois (Hallett) Gabruch and siblings Alvin, Wendy (George) Snoke, John (Barb), Tammie (Gary) Fischer and numerous nieces, nephews and special friends. David is predeceased by his father Joseph Gabruch and his parents in-law Aadne and Gladys (Amundson) Aarrestad and nephew Jeremy Gabruch. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2017 at 2pm at Sharon Schools, 801 Airport Road, North Battleford, SK. Lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Myeloma Canada (www.myelomacanada.ca) 1255 TransCanada, Suite 160, Dorval QC H9P 2V4 or Global Missions Inc. Box 934 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3. __________________________________________________ RACICOT: – Irene Isabelle (nee Thomson) Sept. 23, 1924 – May 2, 2017. Irene passed away from natural causes after a brief stay in Royal University and North Battleford hospitals. She was born in Weldon, SK., one of nine children of Herbert Thomson and Ida Mae Thomson (nee Givens). Irene took all of her schooling in Weldon, where she was also very interested in sports, especially playing soft ball. She was a member of a very competitive team that successfully challenged many other ball teams in the area. When she wasn’t playing ball, Irene usually had her nose buried in a book, as she loved to read. During the Second World War, she worked in a munitions factory in Ontario, and after the War moved to North Battleford to work as a telephone operator. That is where is she met Arthur E. (Ed) Racicot, a local painting contractor, and a Canadian Navy Veteran, originally from the St. Walburg area. They were married on September 21, 1948 at the United Church in North Battleford. First living at the Airport Apartments at the North Battleford Airport, they began raising a family that eventually grew to seven siblings; five boys and two girls. Irene enjoyed homemaking and raising her growing family. She excelled at baking, sewing, crochet and everything she set her mind and hands to. The family lived in a war-time bungalow on 99th Street in North Battleford prior to moving to a newly built home in Battleford in 1964. Irene enjoyed raising her family in the much larger new home, with its large yard and productive vegetable garden. Later in life, she took on a full-time job at the Saskatchewan Hospital as a receptionist / switchboard operator and worked there until she reached retirement age in 1989. Husband Ed had passed away in 1987 after a short battle with cancer. In retirement, Irene enjoyed watching her favourite TV programs (game shows, golf, tennis), doing crosswords and other puzzles, and was still an avid reader. She also enjoyed visiting with her numerous grandchildren (23) and great grandchildren.

She was a very generous soul, and regularly donated to several charities, and was there to support her family at every opportunity. She lived in her own home in Battleford up until her passing, just four months shy of her 93rd birthday. Irene was predeceased by her parents Herbert and Ida Mae Thomson; husband Ed Racicot; and siblings Milford, Rhodena, Harold (Rusty), Alice, Lyle, Gordon, Elmer, and Violet. She is survived by her family: Larry (Sandy); Lorne, Linda Degenstien (David); Lorraine Vany (Paul); Leon; Lyle; and Len, along with many cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren. A Celebration of Life service was held for Irene on Saturday, August 5th in North Battleford, where family and friends gathered to pay their respect to a much loved woman. Interment was in the Veteran’s Plot at the Battleford Cemetery where she was laid to rest beside husband Ed. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service.

Donations in Irene’s memory may be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, Regina Branch, 1810 Albert St, Regina, SK S4P 2S8. _________________________________________________

DRAPER: Ernest James Draper, 85. Ernie hit the road again. Longer trip this time but shorter travel time. At this time I’m sure he is pointing out to St. Peter that the gates are not square or level and is probably negotiating a rate.

Ernest James Draper, formerly of North Battleford, passed away quietly, August 13, 2017 at the Red Deer Hospice. Ernest “Ernie” was born January 07, 1932 in North Battleford to Ernest and Lillian (Liggins) Draper. On May 07, 1955 he married his life partner, Bernice Fitzgerald. Ernie was employed all of his working career by Macdonalds Consolidated until his retirement. He enjoyed his retirement living and was an avid woodworker, beekeeper and Calgary Flames fan. He enjoyed time with his friends hunting and fishing especially in Northern Saskatchewan near “Lac de Ernie”. Ernie especially loved time with his grandchildren and watching and cheering them on in their various sports and activities. Ernie is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bernice, sons, Daryl (Ruth), Darwin (Trish), grandchildren, Jeff, Katelyn, Alicia, Kristin, Blake, great granddaughter Sienna, sister Eileen Menssa and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lillian, and his sister Elsie York. Interment will be at a later date in the North Battleford City Cemetery.

In memory of Ernest donations may be made to Red Deer Hospice. __________________________________________________

PENNER: In Loving Memory of Shirley Lynn Penner, born December 7, 1951 at Meadow Lake, SK., passed away August 12, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Shirley is survived by her brothers: Don, Meadow Lake, SK, John (Shelley), Port Alberni, BC, Ken (Deb), Port Alberni, BC, Wally (Madeline), North Battleford, SK, Roger (Pam), Port Alberni, BC, Bill (Barb), Lashburn, SK and Lyell, Meadow Lake, SK; sister, Mary Ann (John), Port Alberni, BC; sister-in-law, Edie Penner, Port Alberni, BC; nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Esther Penner; brother, Wes and sister, Betty. Funeral Service was held on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from ‘The Garden Chapel’ – Battlefords Funeral Service with Minister Mrs. Joyce Salie. Shared Memories were given by Family & Friends.

Music Selections: “In The Garden”, “Precious Memories” & “I’ll Fly Away”. Interment was at the Cremation Section – City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Memorial Donations are requested to the Canadian Mental Health Association (Battlefords Branch), 1602-103rd St., North Battleford, SK S9A 1L7. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. __________________________________________________

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RAWLYK: In Loving Memory of Steve Rawlyk, born December 16, 1931 at Whitkow, SK., passed away August 11, 2017 in Saskatoon, SK. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Doreen; daughter Sharon (Kelvin) & family: Morgan (Cassondra) & children: Aiden, Dante, Vaida and Lydia; Matheson; John (Karen) & children: Jonathon, Joshua and Katelyn; Darren (Kyla) & children: Karstin, Grayson and Owyn; Terry (Paula) & children: Brett and Ally. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and brothers-in-law George (Deborah) and Brian Cooke. Steve was predeceased by his parents John and Michalina Rawlyk; his in-laws George and Lillian Cooke as well as his four brothers and three sisters and spouses, and by three infant sisters at birth. Divine Funeral Liturgy was held on Monday, August 21, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. from All Saints Ukrainian Catholic Church, North Battleford, SK with Celebrant Father Ivan Derkach. Cross Bearers were Owyn Rawlyk & Ally Rawlyk. Music Ministry: All Saints Parish Choir. Scripture Readers were Katelyn Rawlyk & Matheson Rawlyk Colliar. Prayers of the Faithful: Megan Richardson. Honourary Pallbearers were All those who shared dad’s life. Pallbearers were Morgan Bowman, Joshua and Jonathon Rawlyk, Brett Rawlyk, Karstin and Grayson Rawlyk. Memorial Donations are requested to Battleford Union Hospital Foundation Inc., Box 1358, North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8. A farewell tour of the original Rawlyk Homestead and final blessing at the family farm proceeded the interment at St. Peter and St. Paul Cemetery - (Kindrachuk’s), Whitkow - Dominion District, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. Family Shared Memories read by longtime family friend Audrey Mushtaler. Today we celebrate the life of a very special man - Steve Rawlyk. During his lifetime Steve had many roles - husband, father, guido, great guido, uncle, farmer/rancher, gardener and friend. I would like to share some highlights and memories of Steve’s life that have been prepared by the family. Steve was born to Michelina and John Rawlyk at their homestead South West of Whitkow on December 16, 1931. Steve was the second youngest of 11 children and was the youngest son. Steve spent his school years at Whitkow rural and then moved to Sudbury to join his older brothers to work in the nickel mines until his father got sick in 1953 and he returned to take over the farm. He met the love his life and life-long partner, Doreen, at her grandfather’s farm where he would come to visit Doreen’s father who he met socializing at the famous Whitkow Bar. Steve married his “English Rose” July 29, 1961 at the Whitkow Ukrainian Catholic Church - happily they were able to celebrate their 56th wedding anniversary together at the Royal University Hospital with good friends, my parents, Stella and Walter Ewanchuk, myself and grandsons Josh and Karstin Rawlyk. Steve and Doreen started their family on February 13, 1962 with the arrival of their only daughter - Sharon Colliar, Sharon was quickly followed by John - born March 1, 1963, Darren born March 15, 1965 and Terry born April 26, 1967. The following years were busy for the Rawlyk family as Steve managed the farm and Doreen managed family life and also lent a hand whenever help was required. A big change for the family came in 1969 when they built a new home that gave them running water, inside toilets and space for everyone.

Over the years Steve and Doreen acquired more land, more cattle and more work! Doreen recalls that she would work hauling grain for Steve while he combined and the kids would come home from school, join her in the truck so that she could help them with their homework. The farm was a family operation from the beginning. As each of their children grew up they met and married growing Steve and Doreen’s family from two to twenty-three. Sharon married Kelvin Colliar and they have two children Morgan and Matheson. Morgan is married to Cassondra and they have four children - Aiden, Dante, Vaida and Lydia. John married Karen Kjargaard and they have three children Jonathon, Joshua and Katelyn. Darren married Kyla Barr and they have three boys Karstin, Grayson and Owyn. Terry married Paula Acaster and they have two children Brett and Ally. Steve loved his family and he worked hard along with Doreen to provide for them and give them all a good life. Some of his favorite times included gatherings at the farm where the family would get together, Doreen would cook up a feast including her famous cabbage rolls and meatballs, and between the food and the visiting there was ample opportunity to create the best memories. More often than not these gatherings would be expanded to include extended family and a variety of friends. Ukrainian Christmas was always a special time of year for Steve, in particular he looked forward to a visit from the carolers who would come to the house, sing for them and then share laughter and drinks. Friends were so important to Steve and his good natured sense of humour and loyalty meant that he had many. From his younger years where he would socialize at the Whitkow Bar to the early years of their marriage where they would host parties at the farm to the later years when Steve would connect with friends at auctions and the Coop cafeteria, Steve loved every opportunity he got to share stories and jokes. Since his passing the family has heard from so many of these friends letting them know what a great, faithful friend Steve was and that his infectious smile and laugh will forever be missed. Throughout his life Steve had a deep respect and reverence for God and the church. Steve attended church in both North Battleford and Whitkow and was a proud member of the Whitkow parish. Steve loved the farm and in particular he had a deep affection for his cattle herd and his barnyard cats. There was nothing he liked better than driving in one of his many different side by sides or quads, checking and fixing fence lines, checking the cattle or the progress of the seeded crops. In recent years he spent many a day cutting up his scrap metal pile to exactly 3 foot lengths so it could be hauled to Saskatoon to sell. This dedication to a task was another trait that the family all admired. Although farming was his passion, Steve also pursued other pastimes like fishing, hunting, gardening, sewing – and Doreen says although she never witnessed it - he was also a pretty good hand at baking. Steve also loved nature and in particular Eagles. You will notice a carved Eagle on the Memorial table. Steve found this on a trip to Mexico and managed to get it home on the plane all in one piece! Travel was another pursuit that was important to Steve. From Ukraine, to England and Scotland across the ocean to Mexico, Florida, California, Nevada, Alaska, Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia Manitoba and Alberta Steve was well travelled and he loved every moment of it. During his final days of visiting with his grandchildren when asked which trip was his favorite he said Ukraine because he was able to see where his parents came from. Steve’s life was a life well lived. Up until the day – July 13th, 2017 - when he was admitted into BUH he spent most of his days doing what he loved – from sun up to sun down he was outside working on one thing or another, lending a hand to the boys or sharing his invaluable knowledge on every aspect of farming life. Doreen, Sharon, John, Darren, Terry and their spouses, Steve’s grandchildren and great grandchildren will miss him every day but they know that he is up in heaven riding around on his Kubota with all of his loved ones who passed before him by his side. The family would like to send out a special thank you to all the medical staff that took such great Care of Steve, especially Dr. John Shaw from Royal University Hospital, whose compassion and warmth were appreciated by the whole family. The family would also like to thank everyone for coming today and joining them at this difficult time. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

PAGE 8 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

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ARD: Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for the life of Walter Ard, beloved husband of Linda Ard, resident of Meota, SK will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, August 25, 2017 from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1401-98th. St., North Battleford, SK, with Mrs. Joyce Salie officiating.Memorial donations are requested to the Battlefords District Care Center, Alzheimer Society or to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Condolences can be sent to mail@battlefordsfuneralservice.com Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. (306446-4200)

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RECREATIONAL PROPERTY FOR RENT 3 Bed Room front cottage-Turtle Lake. Beach front-Sewer+Water.

T.V., Phone, all utilities paid.

Rent. Weekly $325 Phone- 1-780-945-1876 Ask for Ken.

Selling and Servicing Across Western Canada for Over 40 Years!

SERVICES FOR HIRE

1.800.249.3969 Check out our inventory at

A-1 Service, Will shingle, Will build fences and decks, Do Painting, Install Metal Fascia Soffit, Renovations etc. Phone 306-445-8439 or 306-441-3690

www.medallion-homes.ca Hwy 2 South Prince Albert

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED

Book Now For all your stucco needs - specialize in acrylic stucco, Older homes redone in acrylic finish, foam basements.

Phone 1+(306)-843-3332 1+(306)441-4099

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT.

Fences, Decks, Sheds, Home Reno’s, Painting, Roofing, Shingles.

306-480-8199 306-481-2836

Great References Available Tree Removal, Lawn & Yard Grooming Landscape. Do homes and property maintenance. Call 306-480-8199 or 306-481-2836.

a total of 590 QUARTER SECTIONS SOLD across saskatchewan

FEED & SEED

RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE NEW 2017 MANUFACTURED HOMES starting under $90,000 delivered! Best Buy Homes Saskatoon/Carlyle www.BestBuyHousing.com - Canada’s largest in-stock home selection, quick delivery, custom factory orders!

Text/call 306-700-2825.

HOUSES FOR RENT Available for rent 2 bedroom home. Monthly rent or Sign one year contract get one month free.

Ref required. Call 306-441-6728 or 306-937-7252

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

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

JOB OPPORTUNITY Family Enhancement Worker

B.T.C. Human Services Corp, requires a Family Enhancement Worker who will have experience in dealing with children/youth aged 6-17 years and working with families. The ability to build trusting relationships with child/youth/family and participate in a professional team approach is required. Must have the ability to relate to First Nations children and youth and have an understanding of the various issues within the communities of Little Pine First Nation, Poundmaker Cree Nation and Lucky Man Cree Nation. You will be required to travel and work flexible hours.

QUALIFICATIONS: • BISW and/or equivalent to 2-yrs work experience in Community Development with children youth and families.

• Ability to speak or understand Cree would be an asset.

Qualified applicants should contact B.T.C. Human Services Corp. at P.O. Box 1426, North Battleford, SK S9A 3M1 or email: btchsc@sasktel.net or fax 306-445-5568.

Deadline for applications is September 1, 2017.

We thank all applications and wish to advise that only those individuals that have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

JOB OPPORTUNITY One (1) Family Finder Assessor/Recruiter Full Time Position

There are a growing number of children in care in offreserve who require families. This program requires individuals with considerable knowledge of First Nations family systems and communities to conduct duties that are of direct benefit to the First Nations children in care offreserve under the responsibility of the Ministry of Social Services. The position identified will be located across the province working under the governance of the designed for individuals of aboriginal ancestry. The Assessor proposed will have a range of skills/experience in assessing and supporting families.

QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelor of Social Work Degree (or equivalent i.e.

B.I.S.W.); • Should have experience in working with and supporting families; • Should have knowledge on child development and the impact of abuse and neglect, disability and other special needs, and attachment issues as it relates to matters in child welfare services; • Should have the ability to understand family dynamics (i.e strengths, deficits, ancestral clan trends, acceptance/ support from the community, etc.) conduct genogram/ family clan research, and possess good interviewing skills; • Criminal record Check (approved), Valid Driver’s License and Driver’s Abstract (approved); • Demonstrated knowledge and awareness of cultural diversity amongst aboriginal communities.

Salary to commensurate with education and experience, as per B.T.C. Human Services Corp. salary grid.

Closing date for applicants: Friday, September 1, 2017 Please submit or fax resumé with 3 professional references to: B.T.C. Human Services Corp.

Executive Director Box 1426 North Battleford, SK Phone: 306-445-4149 Fax: 306-445-5568 email: btchsc@sasktel.net We sincerely appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

CALL 306-445-7261

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - PAGE 9

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

FEED & SEED

Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc. is currently looking for a

• Permanent Full Time Dental Therapist • Permanent Full Time Clinic Maintenance Worker • Temporary Full-Time Clinical Data Specialist • Permanent Full-Time Kids First Home Visitor Please view the full job advertisement in the careers section on our community website:

Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM

Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @

www.brt6hc.ca

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CALL 306-445-7261

www.westerncommodities.ca

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!

The Watrous Manitou and Lanigan Advisor are looking for an enthusiastic, creative and dedicated individual to join our team. Working out of Watrous, the individual will assist with ad creation/writing/page layout and sales. InDesign experience an asset. Wage negotiable. For more information or to apply, email dan.twm@sasktel.net

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.

HORSES & TACK Will buy all classes of horses. 306329-4382.

STEEL BUILDINGS/GRANARIES STEEL BUILDING SALE ...”PRICED TO SELL!” 20X21$6,296 Front & Back Walls Included. 25X25 $6,097 No Ends Included. 32X35 $9,998 One End Wall Included.

Check Out www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036

COMING EVENTS

COMING EVENTS

Visit our website

www.newsoptimist.ca for more community events

Community Events Calendar ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Visit our website

Please call our 24 hour helpline at 306-446-6166 for support or information.

www.newsoptimist.ca

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

for more community events

Monthly Community Events Calendar 1st Sunday of the Month

Wednesdays

Jam Session from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Pioneer Hall, South Railway beginning September 4, 2016 to May, 2017.

Bingo at the Livelong Hall at 7:30 p.m. For more information phone 306-845-4040.

Mondays

Wednesdays

The Rotary Club of the Battlefords meets upstairs at the Northland Power Curling Club at 12:00 noon. New members/guest welcome.

For more information call 306-937-7128 or 306-441-6636.

Drawing Sessions at ARC Creative Studios, 1106 - 101st Street, North Battleford from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Bring your own ar t supplies and we’ll provide the subjects, coffee and encouragement for all. Facilitators Rosemarie Stadnyk and Chris Hodge.

2nd Monday of the Month BUH Retirees meet at the Co-op Cafeteria at 11:30 am 2nd Monday of the month unless a holiday then moves to 3rd Monday.

2nd Monday of the Month Parkinsons Support Group at the Historic Lions Club House, 162 22nd Street, Battleford at 1:30 p.m. For more info phone 306-937-2987.

Mondays & Wednesdays In Motion exercises in the Borden Senior’s Room at 10:00 a.m. No charge & everyone is welcome.

Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays Active Walking, Health Program at the Meota Community Complex from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Stretch & tone portion at 10:00 a.m.

For more information phone Program Co-ordinator 306-892-2073.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays Come join us any Monday, Wednesday or Friday at 6:45 p.m. for Lawn Bowling. Free lessons. Everyone welcome! Held at 1802-106th Street across from Caleb Village until October 15. Call 306-445-8433 for more information.

Tuesdays Knit & Natter meet at A&W Restaurant, 2142 - 100th Street, North Battleford from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. No membership requirements.

Bring your own project or join in a group project knitting for charity, yarn supplied. All skill levels and ages welcome. Phone Vistara at 306317-9434 for more information.

Tuesdays Every Tuesday at 3:00 p.m., four different churches alternate for a service and lunch at the Borden Care Home.

Tuesdays Kaiser at the Battlefords Ukrainian Seniors Hall, 792 - 108th Street at 1:30 p.m. Lunch served. For more info phone 306-446-2269.

Tuesdays Battlefords Art Club welcomes anyone interested in painting to join them from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Don Ross Centre Art Room. For more information phone Kathy at 306-937-3686.

Tuesdays TOPS - Take off Pounds Sensibly Meeting at the Living Faith Chapel, 103rd Street & 14th Avenue entrance.Weigh in from 5:15 - 6:15 p.m.

Meeting 6:15 - 7:00 p.m. Phone Kay at 306-937-2780.

Tuesdays TOPS - Take Off Pounds Sensibly - Meeting from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at the Hope Mennonite Fellowship, 1291 - 109th Street. For more info phone Mary at 306-441-9232 or Joan at 306-445-9968. Everyone welcome.

Tuesdays Battlefords Blend Harmony Chorus at the 3rd Ave. United Church at 7:15 p.m. Phone 306-892-2196.

Tuesdays & Thursdays Circle of Learning at the Battlefords Family Health Centre, 1192 - 101st Street from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Call Sherry at 306-937-6842.

Last Tuesday of the Month Support group for families, friends and caregivers of persons with mental illness at Canadian Mental Health Association - Battleford Branch (CMHA), 1011 - 103rd Street, North Battleford. For more info phone Jane at 306-446-7177.

1st Wednedsay of the Month The Battlefords Photography Club meets downstairs at the Allan Sapp Gallery from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information please phone Chris at 306-445-3909.

1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month North Battleford Grand Squares Dance (Mainstream & Plus Levels at the Ukrainian Senior Centre - Slava Center, 792 - 108th Street from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Phone Maurice & Arlene 306-445-4671 or Ray & Misel at 306-445-3114.

2nd Wednesday of the Month

If someone’s drinking troubles you attending Al-Anon 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, 306937-7289 or 306-441-9324.

Tuesday, September 5

Classes start for Borden School students.

Tuesday, September 5

Borden Dance Club registration, dance shoes & clothes swap, Borden Community Centre - 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 6

Battlefords Toastmasters will start Sept. 6 on Wednesdays from 7:00 -9:00 p.m. in Room 108 at the Don Ross Centre. Come see how Toastmasters can enhance your leadership and communication skills. For more information contact Kelly at 306-481-6139.

Wednesday, September 6

Borden Busy Bees preschool registration, Borden Community Centre at 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 7

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes - the International Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violence at Freedom Skate & Snow parking lot, 1318 - 100th Street from 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Fundraiser to support Battlefords & Area Sexual Assault Centre.

Tuesday, September 12

Seniors Fun Day at St. Joseph Hall 1942, 98th Street from 2:00 4:00 p.m. Entertainment by Nifty 50’s. Lunch & bingo. All seniors welcome.

Friday, September 15

Battlefords Wildlife Federation, Meeting at the Wildlife Federation Building at 7:00 p.m. New members welcome. No meetings during July and August.

Ears and Beers Supper at the Battleford Legion Hall, 262 - 22nd Street. Happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. Call 306-445-1983 for more information.

3rd Wednesday of the Month

Harvest Supper & Barn Dance at the Western Development Museum at 5:00 p.m. Dance with Leon Ochs.

Battlefords North West Historical Society Meeting at the Lions Club House, 22nd Street, Battleford at 1:30 p.m. Phone 306-445-3480.

Thursdays Radisson TOPS SK5243 meeting at 10:00 a.m. in the Radisson Town Office.

Thursdays Regular Bridge at the Pioneer Association at 7:00 p.m. Phone Margaret at 306-445-7615.

1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month Midwest Food Resoures - 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month order $10 or $15 fresh food boxes featuring local produce and organic grains. To order email us at battleford.mwfp@sasktel.net or call us at 306-446-2684. Pick up on the 2nd and 4th Thursday at 10202 - 11th Avenue between 11:00 a.m. noon. This is a non-profit program.

Fridays Borden Farmers’ Market at the Borden Fire Hall from 11:00 a.m.

- 5:00 p.m., lunch sold by Borden United Church from 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m.

1st Friday of the Month The Rivers Edge Quilt Guild meets at 1:00 p.m. in the Craft Room of the Don Ross Centre from September to May. Beginners and experienced quilters are welcome. For more information please call Leslie at 306-937-7471 or Irene at 306-9373318.

1st & 3rd Friday of the Month Kaiser Tournament at the Action Now Senior Centre, 1501 - 101st Street at 7:30 p.m.

2nd Friday of the Month Old Tyme Dance from 8:00 to 10:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Hall, South Railway from October 2017 to April 2018. Live bands. For more information call 306-445-5036.

Friday, September 15

Saturday, September 16

Waseca Community Centre, 201 Railway Avenue - Fun and activities for all ages - Pancake Breakfast, BBQ Lunch, Bicycle & Pet Parade, Farmers Market, Displays & Demonstrations, Music, Games & Activities. Phone Brenda 780-205-8209, Arlee 306-893-4231 or Shannon 306-490-8483. Everyone welcome. Free admission.

Monday, September 18 - November 6

Sharing Grief’s Journey - A support group for those struggling with the loss of a loved one. Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m. for 8 weeks. For more information call Sue at 306-445-6658 or Denise at 306-441-3338.

Tuesday, September 19

Beginners Pottery Hand Building Class at ARC Creative Studios 1102 - 101st Street, North Battleford from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. for 8 weeks. For more information and to register please contact Joanne at joanne.riverswing@gmail.com.

Saturday, September 23 Fall Fair - Trade Show and Craft Show at the Western Development Museum starting at 11:00 a.m. Free to attend. Enter your name in for a draw for a one night stay at the Saskatoon Travelodge.

Wednesday, September 27 Borden Senior’s Potluck Supper & Birthdays, Club Room at 5:45 p.m.

Friday, September 29 Borden Farmers’ Market Appreciation Day - Borden Fire Hall, free goodies & beverages from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, September 30 Borden’s Annual Threshing Day 2 miles north of Borden Cemetery, parade at noon, cook car, demos, threshing, museum open 3:00 - 7:00 p.m., beef supper in hall from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, September 30 Topline Social Dance Club - Gold Tones at 1352 - 100th Street, North Battleford Royal Canadian Legion from 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 midnight. For more information phone Sharon at 306-446-0446, Leela 306-445-7240 and Jean 306-445-8815.

2nd & 4th Friday of the Month Ukrainian Seniors Kaiser Tournament at the Battlefords Ukrainian Hall, 792 - 108th Street at 7:30 p.m. For further details phone 306446-2269.

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 Thursday prior for Tuesday’s & Thursday’s publication.

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.

PAGE 10 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

The question that can become a teaching tool It’s a question we have met a number of times in this column. That’s not surprising, since the subject here is the hymns and gospel songs of the church, and many of them ask that question.

One of the largest collections of hymns on the Internet, the Cyber Hymnal (hymntime.com) lists over 12,000 hymns, and about fifty of the titles begin with the word “why.”

There are good reasons for this.

For one thing, our hymn writers are dealing with an infinitely wonderful God, whose person and doings are largely incomprehensible to us puny mortals.

The Lord has given us a revelation of Himself in the Scriptures.

But questions remain.

Why does God say this?

Why does He do that? The more we come to know, the more we realize is still beyond us.

Job says it well. “Indeed these are the mere edges of His ways, and how small a whisper we hear of Him!” (Job 26:14).

There’s another reason we use the why question.

It can be a teaching tool. It challenges the listener to think, to reason through to a conclusion, and perhaps to make a personal response to what’s presented.

The Lord Jesus asked, “Why do you call Me

‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do the things which I say?”

(Lk. 6:46).

Then there’s the angelic question at the tomb, on Easter Sunday morning, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!” (Lk. 24:5-6).

And the apostle’s query, “Why do you judge your brother. Or why do you show contempt for your brother?” (Rom. 14:10).

As to our hymns and gospel songs, a few examples will show how the authors have used the question to stir up a response.

One song asks, Why Do I Sing About Jesus? Another, Why Should He Love Me So? And still another, Why Worry When You Can Pray?

It makes an interesting exercise to reverse questions such as these, and consider the implications.

Why not sing about Jesus?

If we don’t want to praise Him, it may be because we do not know Him, and what He has done for us.

Why should He not love me?

There are lots of reasons there. The Bible describes us as sinners, and as enemies of God, yet He loves us (Rom. 5:8, 10).

Why not keep worrying, instead of committing things to God in prayer?

It seems so foolish and illogical, stated that way,

Robert Cottrill, B.A., B.R.E. http://wordwisehymns.com/ www.Wordwise‐Bible‐Studies.com

but we do it more than we’d like to admit.

In 1837 an anonymous writer published a children’s hymn called a Dialogue Hymn. In it a Sunday School teacher questions the children of the class.

“Children, can you tell us why Jesus came from heaven to die?”

Then comes the response, in song, “Teacher, yes, for us He came?”

This early song evolved over the years, into a more

standard format.

By 1903 it became Children, Can You Tell Me Why?” borrowing the tune of another hymn, Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me. The result no longer catechizes, but instructs. And though the Victorian prose would take some explaining to children today, there is Bible truth here, about the love of Christ, and His sacrifice on the cross to pay our debt of sin.

“Children, can you tell me why / Jesus came to bleed and die? / He was happy high above, / Dwell-

ing in His Father’s love, / Yet He left His joy and bliss, / For a wicked world like this. / We were all by sin undone, / Yet He loved us, ev’ry one; / So to earth He kindly came, / On the cross to bear our shame, / And to wash away our guilt / In the precious blood He spilt. / He who for our sins was slain, / Lives and dwells above again, / Where He’s waiting to receive / All who will His love believe: / This, dear children, this is why / Jesus came to bleed and die.”

Teapot sized encouragement I always associate my Grandma Barker with the lyrics to a song written by George Sanders and Clarence Kelley.

This ancient but delightful piece went like this: “I’m a little teapot, short and stout. Here is my handle, here is my spout…”

Special events in our family demanded that Grandma deliver her rendition of the song.

After her customary disclaimers of memory loss she would tantalize us with the most delightful English accent and, rubbing the belly of her

Fast forward to a more recent incident. I had just finished helping a friend and as I was about to leave she handed me “something to say thanks.”

There it was – a teapot exactly like the one I’d had to set aside for use as faithful teapot, she’d a flower pot. As hard as it recite the entire poem. is to believe, I was nearly I’ve never forgotten that speechless. and whether it was her Carefully tucking my influence or not, I can’t imagine life without copi- new treasure into the trunk of the car I headed ous amounts of brewed home, my head filled tea. with thoughts of “every It was with great day miracles.” From that sadness, then, that the day forward the blue and pot matching my set of white patterned teapot everyday dishes broke a reminds me of God’s surfew years ago.

prises, given just because He loves us.

This past week I enjoyed several other blessings: a surprise phone call from a dear friend and former work colleague. “You’ve been on my heart for the past several weeks she said,” and I nearly cried with joy. The other was a visit from a couple who’d moved away: both were totally unexpected; both, truly encouraging.

“Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Worship Together TerriTorial Drive alliance church Pastor: Rev. Allen Huckabay

1372 102 St 306-445-3009 nd

ANGLICAN PARISH

Notre Dame (RC) Parish Corner of 104th Street & 12th Avenue Rev. Father Cuong Luong MASSES: Saturdays - 7:00 p.m.

Sundays - 11:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

SUNDAY SERVICES Rev. Trevor Malyon

St. George’s Anglican Church - 9:00 a.m.

191 - 24th Street West, Battleford, SK

OFFICE 306-445-3836

St. Paul’s Anglican Church - 11:00 a.m.

Email: notredame.nb@gmail.com www.notredameparish.ca EVERYONE WELCOME

1302 - 99th Street North Battleford, SK

Living Water Ministry

Community Baptist Church

1202 - 103 Street, North Battleford, SK 306-446-3077 PASTOR: RON BRAUN

Sunday Morning Service 11:00 a.m.

Everyone Welcome

Canadian National Baptist Convention

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church Pastor James Kwon

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

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

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

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am

Phone 306-445-9096

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

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

1702 - 106th Street North Battleford, SK

Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Fax: 306-445-8895 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca

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

Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

Maidstone/ Paynton United Church of Canada Phone: 306-445-4338

Clergy Person: Rev. Ean Kasper

10:30 a.m.

Service

Church & CE Wing:

306-893-2611

For booking the Wing:

306-893-4465

Third Avenue United Church Sunday Worship Service - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 1301 - 102nd Street, Phone 306-445-8171 Rev. Frances Patterson

Everyone Welcome

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

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - PAGE 11

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54. Cliffside dwelling 55. Call for 56. Appear 57. Fancy 59. Battery contents

62. Big Apple attraction, with “the” 63. Grand ___ (“Evangeline” setting) 65. Marvelous, in slang

Aquarius. It is occulted by the moon on the 6th, but this is an exceedingly difficult observation, as the

bright moon overpowers the distant, dim planet.

James Edgar has had an interest in the night sky all his life. He joined The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2000 and is now the Editor of the renowned Observer’s Handbook and Production Manager of the bi-monthly RASC Journal. The IAU named asteroid 1995 XC5 “(22421) Jamesedgar” in his honour.

Mars emerges in the morning sky mid-month

Hawaii to the Azores. The 13th marks the moon’s closest to Earth, perigee of 369,860 km. By the 17th and 18th, a rapid-fire group of occultations give observers a treat, Venus is half a degree above our satellite on the 17th, an occultation in Southeast Asia; a few hours later, Regulus is occulted in Africa and the Middle east; Mars is occulted on the 18th at 20:00 UT for Hawaiians and NW South Americans; finally, Mars is covered for easternmost Asia and Polynesia that evening. The first two are morning events, so rise early to get the best view.

On the 22nd, Jupiter is 4 degrees below the moon;

at 404,348 km.

Mercury in the morning sky is the best apparition for the year, joining Regulus on the 10th, Mars on the 16th, and the moon on the 18th (see above).

Venus is bright in the early eastern morning sky, with a particularly close conjunction with the moon on the 17th, and just as close to Regulus on the 19th.

Mars spent a few weeks behind the sun, and emerges in the morning sky by mid-month. Mercury and Mars are within a half degree of each other on the 16th, and Mars is one of the players in the occultation series mentioned above for Sept. 18.

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PAGE 12 - Tuesday, August 29, 2017

Lucas Punkari

Sports Reporter

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Up and down week for Albers Staff

To say that Andrew Albers’ two latest outings for the Seattle Mariners were different from the norm would be an understatement.

After earning his second straight victory for his new team Monday against the Atlanta Braves, the North Battleford product suffered his first loss of the 2017 MLB season against the New York Yankees Sunday.

The 31-year-old lefthander now has a 2-1 record with a 4.20 earned run average in 15 innings of work.

Albers didn’t get a lot of help from his teammates in the opening frame Sunday as the Mariners committed five errors to fall behind 6-1.

He bounced back from that over the last four innings with four strikeouts and two walks for the afternoon as the Mariners ended up losing 10-1.

Although he gave up eight runs, only three of those were earned.

“When things kind of spiral like they did in the first, you feel like things are going against you,” Albers said Sunday.

“But for me, I’ve been pretty fortunate in my last nine or 10 times out that things have gone my way.

This game has a funny way of turning around on you. Today is one of those days.”

Monday’s start on the road against the Braves was an interesting one as Albers went up against the team he started the season for and had spent most of the year in the minors with prior to being traded to the Mariners earlier this month.

It was another solid outing for Albers as he gave up four runs, struck out three batters and walked two in five innings of work in an eventual 6-5 victory.

He also had a chance to bat for the first time in his big league career in the second inning, and he helped himself out with an RBI double.

“It’s pretty neat,” Albers said afterwards. “I’m not a

very good hitter. I got pretty lucky there.

“I was just happy to put the ball in play and it worked out. It helped I had some at-bats down in Triple A this year and that was the first time I’d hit in 12 years. It was starting to feel that I could at least be competitive at the plate.”

Following Sunday’s game, which was the second straight loss for the team, the Mariners have a 66-65 record and are tied with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for second place in the American League West division.

Although both clubs are well back of the Houston Astros in the race for the pennant, they are still in the hunt for one of the two Wild Card spots in the AL. In what is turning out to be an increasingly tight race with a number of teams, the Mariners and Angels are 1.5 games back of the Minnesota Twins for the second wild card spot.

Albers’ next scheduled start is tentitavely slated for Saturday in Seattle against the Oakland Athletics.

Former Battlefords North Stars captain Kendall Fransoo celebrated with goaltender Taryn Kotchorek after he scored against the Flin Flon Bombers in Game 1 of the SJHL final in April. Photo by Lucas Punkari

Staff Two more graduating members of the Battlefords North Stars will be continuing their hockey careers this season.

Former captain Kendall Fransoo will be suiting up for the Rosetown Red Wings in their quest for an Allen Cup, while forward Connor Logan will be travelling south of the border to play college hockey for the SUNY-Plattsburgh Cardinals in the NCAA Division III ranks.

Fransoo spent nearly five seasons with his hometown team, as he put up 60 points in 238 games for the North Stars.

In moving to the Red

Wings, who will be the host team for next year’s Allen Cup, Fransoo will be playing with former North Stars forward and fellow North Battleford product Blake Tatchell.

Tatchell is joining the Red Wings after a season of pro hockey with the ECHL’s Wichita Thunder.

As for Logan, who is from Victoria, B.C., he spent one season with the North Stars after being acquired from the British Columbia Hockey League’s Prince George Spruce Kings and had 53 points in 58 games.

He will be joining a Cardinals program that won the State University of

New York Athletic Conference title last season and made it to the quarter-final of the NCAA Division III tournament.

That team featured former North Star forward Kyle Hall, who served as the Cardinals’ captain in his senior campaign.

Fransoo and Logan join a group of three other graduating players from last year’s Canalta Cup champions who will be playing elsewhere this season.

Reed Delainey has joined the RIT Tigers, Coby Downs will suit up for the Norwich Cadets and Keaton Holinaty is slated to skate with the UOIT Ridgebacks.

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