News Optimist January 3

News

A look back

Sports

Everybody Has a Story

Orcas reach the podium

11

2 Cairns on Cinema

Jane Shury

5

6

Star Wars leads the way

Featured

Analyzing a dinosaur feather

8

Check us out online at

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Volume 109 No. 22

In the news this week

North Battleford, Sask.

Staff All eyes will be on the North Battleford Civic Center this week as it plays host to the Pinty’s Grand Slam of Curling Meridian Canadian Open.

The triple knockout

event, which features 16 teams each on the men’s and women’s field, gets underway Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

The playoffs will begin Saturday with the men’s quarter-finals at noon.

The women’s quarter-

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

finals will take place at 4 p.m., with the men’s and women’s semifinals both occuring at 8 p.m.

Sunday will see the men’s final get underway at 11 a.m., while the women’s final will begin at 3 p.m.

For those unable to

attend the event, CBC will be broadcasting the men’s quarterfinals and final, while Sportsnet will be carrying games starting Thursday.

A full preview of this week’s event can be found on Page 11.

Sliding Into a New Year The sun may have been shining, but the wind was out in full force. That didn’t deter the youngsters and families who took to Don Ross hill to enjoy a day of sledding while school was out. Photos by Shannon Kovalsky

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PAGE 2 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

The summer that was: oil spill in review Staff Reporter

(With files from Brian Zinchuk, Pipeline News.)

The biggest story to hit the city of North Battleford in 2016 began in the overnight hours of July 20 to 21.

The next day, the extent of the issue was just becoming known.

According to the initial report from Husky Energy Thursday evening, July 21, it had shut down a pipeline on its Saskatchewan Gathering System approximately 30 kilometres east of Lloydminster, near Maidstone.

The initial incident report Husky filed with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Economy stated, “on July 20, 2016 at approximately 2000h, a pipeline release was discovered on the south shore of the North Saskatchewan River, upstream of the south isolation valve site on 12-17051-24-W3M.” Cleanup crews were deployed to the site to deal with the situation and the first reports did not seem to point to a major problem impacting the river water.

Soon enough, it became clear that a major situation was on everyone’s hands.

Approximately 200 to 250 cubic metres of heavy oil and effluent had entered the North Saskatchewan River.

According to the story filed by Pipeline News editor Brian Zinchuk, the incident “occurred near, but not at, the point where the pipeline crossed the river, south of Paradise Hill. The spill occurred on the south shore of the river, in the river valley, approximately 300 metres from water. While the nature of the pipeline failure has yet to be determined, the oil flowed overland and entered the river near a Husky facility built along its shore.”

Zinchuk reported the first evidence of a leak was detected at approximately 8 p.m. July 20, but the pipeline was shut down with manual valves at 10:30 a.m. the following

day.

That approximate 14hour gap would become a major source of contention for many who were highly critical of Husky’s response during the immediate aftermath of the spill.

Husky’s initial attempts to contain the spill included building a berm on land to capture as much oil as possible before it reached the water.

But five containment booms set up at Paynton Ferry, North Battleford, and Maymont also failed to stop the oil plume, which continued on down the river en route to Prince Albert and Melfort.

For officials with the City of North Battleford, this oil spill was an unexpected turn of events. The operations department had already been dealing with a major and emerging issue impacting their water supply — the buildup of sand around the intakes at the F.E. Holliday water treatment plant, one of two water treatment plants servicing North Battleford.

Just days earlier, North Battleford city council had awarded a tender for dredging work to begin. But the oil spill threw those plans out the window.

By Friday afternoon, officials in North Battleford had received notice the oil from the spill would reach the city that night.

the river, their water treatment plant accesses water entirely from four groundwater wells, and not from the river.

In Battleford, residents were relatively unaffected by what transpired that weekend. For their neighbours north of the river in North Battleford, all heck had broken loose.

By Sunday, their water restrictions had become mandatory and the City planned to be in contact with businesses that were large water users about the situation. City officials were meeting with the Saskatchewan Ministry of the Environment and the Water Security Agency about the spill.

By Monday, July 25, the City reported that due to the water conservation efforts of local businesses, Water Treatment Plant No. 1 could keep up with the water demand. In the

body, with the spill impacting people, the environment and local businesses.

“We’re deeply sorry this has happened. We accept full responsibility for the event and the cleanup, and we will make things right.”

We’re deeply sorry this has happened. We accept full responsibility for the event and the cleanup, and we will make things right.

– Husky Energy’s Al Pate

F.E. Holliday Shut Down

The F.E. Holliday water plant was shut down, and Husky Energy constructed a berm around the plant’s water intake to protect it from the spill material.

From that point on, the city was down to just one water source — Water Treatment Plant No. 1, which sources water from groundwater wells.

Officials immediately sent out an advisory urging residents to go into “winter water use” mode to conserve the water supply. That meant shutting all car washes down, closing all laundromats and urging residents not to water their lawns or gardens.

Meanwhile, in Battleford, no problems were anticipated. Despite the town’s own proximity to

—­Photo by Averil Hall

meantime, officials were already considering what alternative sources could be found.

By this point, the plume of oil had made it to Prince Albert, which declared a local state of emergency and shut down its intakes to the North Saskatchewan River. Because Prince Albert relies entirely on river water, that city was in an even more dire situation as it scrambled to put in place an alternative pipeline to supply water.

July 25, Husky’s vicepresident of exploration and production services, Al Pate, said during a daily news conference that “we realize this has been a very challenging time for every-

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The environmental impact was beginning to become apparent. Three birds were rescued on Saturday after being found completely covered in oil.

The coming days saw officials with the City of North Battleford scramble to respond to the spill.

Emergency Operation Centre Activated

Monday, the City activated its Emergency Operation Centre, located at the Cameron McIntosh Airport.

There, officials were tasked with coming up with a plan to replace the significant amount of water supply from the North Saskatchewan River. The

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meetings included representatives from the Water Security Agency and the City’s external engineers, and took place over the course of the week.

Director of Finance David Gillan outlined the discussions that took place during that time when he reported back to council the next week.

Several options had been considered included pipelines to Lloydminster or to the South Saskatchewan River, but Gillan made clear these options were too expensive.

“Just unbelievably crazy numbers,” said Gillan.

Another option that was considered was accessing water from the Battle River. That was something Gillan said was a “real alternative,” but a better option came to officials’ attention.

That was the possibility of accessing the groundwater by a supply line from the Battleford water treatment plant. The advantage of that plan compared to the Battle River plan was that the Battleford water supply was already treated and potable right away.

As well, Battleford had enough water available.

By Friday, the deal was signed between the City of North Battleford and the Town of Battleford to access the town’s water supply.

The following Tuesday, a special council meeting was held at City Hall. At that meeting, administra-

tion officials outlined the plan that had been developed to replace the river water supply.

Strategy Developed

It was a three-pronged strategy.

The first was the agreement to access Battleford’s water. The water line would run from Battleford across the old bridge on an overland pipe, then be hooked up directly into the distribution system at the F.E. Holliday plant.

The second initiative was to drill additional supply wells for Water Treatment Plant No. 1. Four new wells were approved in the amount of $1,842,000, which Director of Operations Stewart Schafer said would bring capacity up from 200 cubic metres/ hour to 300 cubic metres/ hour at that plant, for a 50 per cent increase. That was expected to come online by the end of August.

The third initiative was considered the most daunting challenge: to bring in filtration equipment from General Electric Water Systems on a temporary basis that could pre-treat water from the North Saskatchewan River water and remove all traces of hydrocarbons.

That would allow F.E. Holliday to reopen with water from the river. Gillan explained it would be a “double-pass” filtration system.

Continued on Page 3

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The summer that was: oil spill in review Continued from Page 2 The first was an organoclay that would filter out hydrocarbons, and then the water would pass through an active carbon filter to make sure it is totally clean.

“We expect that at the end of that process that the water will have hydrocarbon content of next-tozero, if not zero,” Gillan said. The water would then go into the water treatment plant to be retreated again and dispersed into the city.

The filtration system would not by itself bring back the river water supply to where it was before. But all three options would make up the shortfall over the next 12 months.

One consideration was the fact the Battleford pipeline would be operational only until freeze-up. At that point, water would not be able to flow across the line to North Battleford and it would have to be shut down.

But Gillan pointed out that “city demand in winter also drops,” so the other two water sources from the wells and the GE filtration should carry them until the spring. At that point, the Battleford line would be opened again.

The overall cost to the City was staggering. The oil spill was characterized as a between $6 and $9 million event and the expectation from City officials was that Husky would pay for all of it.

Gillan said the City had

“close discussions with Husky and we’ve had a very good relationship with them. They don’t want to be a bad corporate citizen, and we want the water supply that’s been lost, recovered.”

Environmental Concerns

While North Battleford officials had been busy scrambling to save their water supply, environmental activists made it known they were concerned, even furious, at what had just transpired.

Then interim Green

grass First Nation voiced concern about the lack of involvement by other key leaders.

“We’ve been excluded from all talks as though we don’t exist,” said Whitecalf. “I can’t let the provincial and federal government walk away from that responsibility.”

The following week, First Nation leaders held a forum north of the city on the safety of pipelines, a meeting that also included a protest march along Highway 4 to the North Saskatchewan River.

They invited Husky Oil officials and also Premier Brad Wall to attend and explain what happened, but they failed to show. “ T h a t ’s the last thing on Puffalt their agenda – First Nations people and indigenous people,” said Onion Lake chief Wallace Fox. For his part, Wall had met with City officials a day earlier, on Aug. 3, about their proposed plan of action.

Wall’s visit was immediately after a Husky Energy report on water quality in the river was released, one that indicated only five samples had exceeded the applicable Canadian drinking water guidelines, and those were all within 20 kilometres of the spill.

Despite what seemed like good news, Wall was cautious.

“We’re all wanting to get to the long-term solution,” Wall said to reporters.

“We’re all wanting to get to

Our concern, and why we’re not willing to open up the intakes at all, is because we have no proof that the sediment is clean.

– City Manager Jim Party leader Shawn Setyo, who later became the permanent leader of the party in October, came to North Battleford to see the state of the river July 31. Setyo collected a water sample from underneath the Battlefords Bridge, and later reported that some oil particles had in fact settled in the jar of river water.

First Nation leaders representing those reserves impacted by the spill were also demanding answers.

A meeting was held July 28 that included Husky representatives as well as Trent Wotherspoon, interim leader of the Opposition, and Mayor Ian Hamilton.

After the meeting, Chief Lori Whitecalf of Sweet-

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the point where the City of North Battleford and City of P.A. can use their filtration systems, can use their intakes off of the river. And we will get there, but we’ll only get there when it’s safe to do so.”

Aug. 9, the final tests having been completed, the water supply line from Battleford officially came into use. The estimate was that the line would replace up to a third of the water from the river.

Compensation From Husky

At a Aug. 15 council meeting, Gillan confirmed the City had received its first pre-payment of $3.5 million from Husky as compensation for the oil spill.

City Manager Jim Puffalt also updated council about the work already underway. Construction had begun on the additional wells at the groundwater plant, Water Treatment Plant No. 1, with two wells drilled as of that day.

Puffalt also responded to news that the latest Water Security Agency tests had found the water in the North Saskatchewan was within safe drinking guidelines. Despite that, Puffalt made clear the City was taking no chances.

“Our concern, and why we’re not willing to open up the intakes at all, is because we have no proof that the sediment is clean,” said Puffalt. “And we’re concerned that something comes in that will blow the plant up.”

The proposed dredging of the North Saskatchewan River was also still on hold.

“We don’t think it’s wise at this point in time to disturb the river base, on the river bottom, and start disrupting and have more things go down the river,” said Puffalt.

Restrictions Lifted

The afternoon of Wednesday Aug. 31 saw some long-awaited relief for city residents.

Two of the four new wells had finally come into operation, and all water use restrictions for businesses were lifted.

On Sept. 2, all outside watering restrictions were lifted. Car washes and laundromats could resume operation as well.

The statement from the City read as follows: “the City of North Battleford thanks all residents and businesses for conserving water for almost 1.5 months. Your contribution and co-operation was crucial to the success in ensuring there was enough water during this trying time.”

At city council Sept. 12, it was reported all four of the new wells were now in production, and the supply line from Battleford was still pumping water to the F.E. Holliday plant. Further discussions were also underway on the GE filtration system.

Continued on Page 7

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PAGE 4 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Letter

Time for North Stars to shake, rattle and roll

Dear Editor There is an old saying that indicates you can never go back. That is true in many facets of our lives. The Battlefords North Stars have struck a torrid pace in the initial part of the season, and their record of 30-7 leads the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League overall standings at the holiday break.

They begin the 2017 part of their schedule with a tough three-game road trip in Estevan, Weyburn and Wilcox beginning Friday, before returning to North Battleford to play the Red Wings on Jan. 13. The games completed prior to the Christmas break were an important part of the schedule. However, the tilts that really count are now before them, as they aim to break out of the gate quickly and try to solidify their position as a first-place team in the standings and prepare themselves for a long run in the playoffs and, hopefully, a Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League championship.

The most impressive aspect of the club in the 201617 campaign, thus far, has been the chemistry that has unified the team. They play for each other and are accountable to each other. The leadership that has been provided by the returning veterans has been a key to their success. It will be essential for that core of players to ensure the team continues to build and peak at the right time.

There is no “I” in team. Regular season success will mean relatively little unless they prove their worth in the playoffs. But, first things first. Although this team is built to win on the road and at home, it would be advantageous to take first place overall by the end of the season. To attain that, steady play on the defensive side with continued stalwart goaltending will be required.

The goals will come, as this team is too talented to have any lapses in goal scoring. If they play as a team, they will be successful.

The Battlefords North Stars are blessed to have two fine individuals leading this club. Head coach and general manager Nate Bedford has fit seamlessly into this program and has definitely put his stamp on the team.

The North Stars play with a high degree of maturity and discipline.

As the season progresses, the players will understand there is no room for taking unnecessary penalties. Other teams will aim to put our guys in the penalty box. The North Stars will need to be cognizant of that.

There appears to be a healthy mutual respect between the coaching staff and the players.

Assistant coach Braeden Johnson is a reflection of the heart of this team. He is committed to success and is passionate about his North Stars roots. Johnson deserves a great deal of credit for the impressive performance of

the club.

And the writer would be remiss in not discussing the contribution of the team trainer/therapist, Robert Tanner. If you were to look at Tanner’s responsibilities, you would understand how vital his contribution is to the North Stars players and organization.

The upcoming months will see a necessary elevation in play of all players on the squad. But, the most important aspect of their game is to have fun playing with discipline and controlled aggressive abandon. Outwork the other team on each shift for 60 minutes, that is a good recipe for success.

Come playoff time, the work on the ice gets harder

and players like Troy Gerein and Logan Nachtegaele will shine, as their grit and determination will be essential. And remember these names: Sych, Spagrud, Rosenberg, Fransoo, Jensen, Kleiboer and Manegre.

This solid crew of defencemen will need to continue their strong play in front of the spectacular goaltending of Kotchorek and Gryzbowski.

At this point in time, the Battlefords North Stars lead the SJHL in game attendance. The Civic Centre (you know, the arena that needs to be replaced) is a hub of activity on game day. The players appreciate the support the community has provided and, as we approach the latter part of the season and the playoffs, it is anticipated tickets may be hard to come by, as we encounter further success. It is exciting hockey and very entertaining.

The 2015-16 season is behind them. What has occurred in the first part of the 2016-17 schedule is now past. After watching this team’s entertaining brand of hockey, it has become apparent they will be determined to improve each and every game throughout the balance of the regular season and playoffs. This is a championship caliber club. Now is not the time to take tje foot off the gas. Now is the time for our Stars to shine. Let’s go boys! It is your time!

Garnet and Ashlyn Elmer (the intelligent one of these two) North Battleford

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

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Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 5

Cairns on Cinema

2016 update: new Star Wars movie a big hit

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Here at Cairns on Cinema, we try and do our part to fill up the news pages during a time of year when the news slows down and staff are on vacation.

Personally, I welcome this time of year because, among other things, I might finally get to a movie or two, after sitting through countless fourhour budget meetings in my regular job.

The frustrating thing is I will hear about a movie that is rolling out somewhere, and then I look at the movie listings and realize it is playing nowhere near any movie theatres I might be headed to.

Here is a good example of that — The Founder.

This is the movie based on Ray Froc, the founder of the McDonald’s franchise, as portrayed by Michael Keaton.

I’ve been hearing buzz about this movie since the summer, but its release was pushed back and pushed back. Then I had heard it had finally gone into a limited release in a number of theatres during the late fall.

But going online, I couldn’t find listings for it anywhere close to here, and for good reason. It turned out the November limited release was in Australia and New Zealand!

Finally, I looked on RottenTomatoes.com and found a wide release date listed for North America: Jan. 20.

Well, great! Instead

of being able to see The Founder during the Christmas break, I find out the release has been pushed

back yet again! Aaargh!

The bottom line is I will have to figure out something else to see at the movie. Or, if I’m desperate for McDonald’s, maybe I ought to skip the movies entirely and just go there for a bite to eat.

Box Office

There were big numbers to report in the domestic results for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. According to the numbers at Box Office Mojo, this movie opened to $155 million from 4,157 theatres, which is the second highest December opening of all time behind Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It ranks

as the 12th highest opening weekend of all time, right between The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

from 2013 and the original The Hunger Games from 2012. Worldwide, its haul was $290 million. Not a bad start.

For all of 2016, this is the third-highest opening weekend of the year, behind the $179 million for Captain America: Civil War and the $166 million for Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice.

The question I have is whether this latest Star Wars movie will have enough momentum to finish as the top-grossing release of 2016.

As it stands right now, the number to beat is $486,295,561, which is the total domestic gross

Week-long ongoing dispute becomes physical Staff Battlefords RCMP responded to more than 87 incidents between 6 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 31 and 6 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 1.

Saturday, Dec. 31

6:33 a.m. - Report of a physical dispute between two people at a residence on the 900 block of 110th Street. This matter is still under investigation.

10:36 a.m. - Report of a break and enter to a shed at a residence on Killdeer Drive.

3:00 p.m. - Report of a dispute between two people that has been going on for more than a week and became physical. This matter is still under investigation 7:35 p.m. - Report of a person being spat on by another person on Clark Drive. Still under investigation.

9:24 p.m. - Report of a break and enter to a residence on 100th Street. The suspect used bear spray on the occupant and then fled.

Check out The Battlefords RCMP Daily Report on our website at

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The victim did not need medical attention and the matter is still under investigation.

11:15 p.m. - Report of a truck on fire just east of North Battleford on Highway 40. No injuries reported.

Sunday, Jan. 1

1:04 a.m. - Report of a stolen black Pontiac Torrent from the 1300 block of 104th Street. Still under investigation 1:09 a.m. - Report of a physical altercation between two people at a residence on St Laurent Drive.

No injuries reported and this matter is still under investigation.

1:41 a.m. - Report of a fight on the Red Pheasant First Nation. One person sustained minor injuries

and the matter is still under investigation.

2:33 a.m. - Report of two stolen trucks from a farm East of North Battleford. A Dodge Ram and Ford F150 were stolen.

3:01 a.m. - Call to 911 from a man asking for assistance.

03:9 a.m. - Report of an intoxicated woman banging on doors at different residences on St. Laurent Drive. The woman was located and was arrested.

5:48 a.m. - Report of an impaired driver on the 600 block of 99th Street.

Police arrested 21 people for alcohol/disturbance related offences and responded to 10 traffic matters, 16 disturbance complaints, one Mental Health Act matter, two alarms, and seven theft reports.

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for Finding Dory from its opening day on June 17 to its close on Dec. 8. Finding Dory’s opening weekend was $135,060,273, so this latest Star Wars movie is running about $20 million ahead, but it may not have the same staying power in cinemas that Finding Dory did. Finding Dory sort of kept up its momentum right through the year, but science fiction movies in general tend to open strong and then cool off quickly.

The other news from this past weekend is how poorly Collateral Beauty did. This starred Will Smith who has a stellar record of being one of Hollywood’s most bankable box-office stars.

Not this time. Collateral Beauty was the worst opening ever for a movie starring Will Smith in a lead role.

Its domestic haul on opening weekend was $7 million, and no wonder.

This was a downer of a movie about a man whose daughter had died. No wonder nobody rushed to the cinemas to see it.

Now, $7 million may seem like a lot of money to you, but in Hollywood, it sure isn’t. And when you compare these numbers to the domestic opening weekends of Will Smith’s other movies over the years, it really isn’t: Suicide Squad $133 million After Earth $27 million Men in Black 3 $54 million Hancock $62 million I Am Legend $77 million The Pursuit of Happyness $26 million Hitch $43 million I, Robot $52 million

Bad Boys II $46 million Men In Black II $52 million Ali $14 million Wild Wild West $27 million Men in Black $51 million Independence Day $50 Million In fact, Smith has been on a box-office slide as of late. Last year, Focus (costarring Margot Robbie) opened to $18 million, and then Concussion, about a

doctor researching concussions in the NFL, opened during the Christmas season to $10,513,749.

In general, this is not good news for Will Smith, and if I were him, I’d be looking for some projects that could earn a bit more money.

That’s all for the time being. Stay tuned in the new year when I return with a rundown of the annual box office numbers for 2016.

News-Optimist.ca Last week’s News-Optimist online poll: Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

• Yes, I stick to one every year.

8% • Yes, but I usually forget by the second week of January.

2% • No, I don’t bother.

87% • No, if I make a resolution I follow it instantly.

4%

This week’s News-Optimist online poll:

Which rinks will you be cheering for during the Meridian Canadian Open at this Civic Centre this week?

• A Saskatchewan rink.

• A Canadian rink.

• A rink from elsewhere in the world.

• I’m just hoping for good curling.

Visit www.newsoptimist.ca Follow Battlefords News-Optimist on Facebook and BfordsNewsOpt on Twitter

PAGE 6 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

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Dave’s health in decli proudly. th rs Wi ito vis m e seu Jan “They were put up in ho ig, ipz n and tio Born and raised in Le da mo om acc given free seball. ba ing lov up w gre r yer pla s, it Mille free food, and to those seball ofindelible an Playing or watching, ba t was something. It lef m school fered fol ks a break fro ma rk,” said Jane. owing up Batwork or far m work. Gr “After the game the North nlkWi in ay aw es etr om kil mo 30 t the abou tleford Beavers gave all a love for se guys, the ie, Dave Shury also had to e gat the m fro d ey met an ney to mo e baseball. After the two hav n’t because they did — Jane became a couple in 1952 . tes Sta go back to the 22 — at a touch was 18 and Dave was “North Battleford got in all seb ba e, nc the d an ity Saturday night da with the team in Un red interng thi e sam naturally became a sha the next day they did a in up t pu est. re we ey Th down there. e and Jan er, lat rs yea go to few A ney hotel and given the mo ed, after Dave Shury were ma rri .” me ho back a degree Hall Dave had graduated with d In the early 20 00s, the an ere ist reg a as e Jan d ed end in law an ext e itte of Fame comm ound that se players psychiatric nurse. Ar be invitation to one of the t jus law in nual inan s time, with a career to attend the museum’ ng at Sas“Mex” ron ginning and Jane nursi My duction ceremony. ve helped with top katchewan Hospital, Da rts sho yed Johnson pla Minor an ew tch ska Sa the s rch and found the Kansas City Mona ring this Du . ion iat soc As all l Sta rs. seb Al Ba later the Satchel Paige ed with certhe period, Jane stayed involv end att He was too ill to the hospishe if ed baseball as a member of ask ce nie emony, but his Aces, and ce. tal’s softball team, the pla his in end could att mpionimporsha red in the team’s cha “Her histor y is what’s ship season. tant.” e has rlotta Retired since 1999, Jan Johnson’s niece, Ca in g rin , was cle un kept busy with voluntee r he e lik er, Ni Walls La st of her ong Al k. the community, but mo born in Little Rock, Ar skatcheriAm an time is devoted to the Sa and ric Af with eight other me st fir the ewan Baseball Hall of Fa ford, g on am s cans, she wa ttle Ba in d ate loc m, sse cla s Museu black students to attend husband is the ed of nn ch pla mu t Little on d jec en ate that she began with her segreg had tak The next pro Saskatchewan ms that at the for merly ite the ed of ect ent sel e The sid riz ol. pre ho ego in 1983. of Sc s cat tie gh ntral Hi get [the Sas- du passed to digitally s in the prov- Rock Ce era ck the Ro of “He was the motivator to going and Baseball Hall of Fame before he tle nts Lit me ele the ent n know repres seum] ince’s base- group, As the official president . the 08 ed 20 katchewan Baseball Mu ard in aw ay er aw lat d s an wa d the desire ball histor y. Nine, to keep it going. He ha nal Gold Medal. eth- of the HOF tog all it t pu to y ilit e points to Congressio ab Jan the sedream and the mu d During her speech at course, because an an honorar y , cle un ht r er,” said Shury. “And, of eig he ng for uri um no ceremony ho d it.” me rte Fa po of sup ll d an Ha too it the t ed now, I lov La Nier spoke abou museum and yea rs inductee who Walls er The key to sta rting the nev e Jan nd on the people of Saskssi fou is pre 33 yea rs at the im yed pla for keeping it running for ks an made not only on her and their seem- lac old diamond atchew t tha in the Shury’s team work ks fam ily. tas ented skills, with Abbot uncle, but on his en with her at r he ingly perfectly complim ed tak ne so s wa pre “She ization and Field on King skDave’s strengths in organ tchewan a t t e n t i o n cle’s experience in Sa un ska Sa g of rin du ry mo ll me Hi t ou ’s ab she ser ving the ng ari d he an and her desire to vol- an the days of atchew s wa the he baseball and Jane’s in “S for e. d Jan gla d laine and be involved “b ar ns tor m- it,” exp unteer for a worthy cause work. bring out what hapto e abl en wh . ,” ing m ’ in her community I “ her uncle and to rtnership, “I ring base- pened to tou d Said Jane of their pa e s a e l seball players ut him and Dave p teams these other ba ball e hav wouldn’t be here witho I skatchewan t tha to the that came up Sa e to do that withfrom wouldn’t have been abl so royally d this [job] ate tre y re ur Sh ne Ja — States and we d ite Un e s u out me.” a had such an impact d with mul- b e c would pull and it After Dave was diagnose d became I’m not an rybody and her. That, 60s an into town and on eve l a tiple sclerosis in the 19 du ivi nd i e ng with what was going ir, Jane becam planned for the fol- alo the States, it had such me ck ga ba confined to a wheelcha all sit seb to ba a e ’s nd hav as in her husba mplifying a pe- on in ything,” said Jane. And was more and more involved lowing afternoon, as exe ppy to and not do an ha she an affect on her. That t too tha ly d on de s ad wa y. she she tor h, ug his eno ds’ t for no .” dream, but ttle ng t’s Ba thi tha the if tic m that really a fantas more involved riod in help him achieve it. played against any tea of Saskatchwould like to become hey art s “T he les e do Th to iza e an abl s ly org wa ear er community It was in the e. oth “Little by little he tim th wi the in at histor y lies re aga all the e s seb ba [th wa s iver. I loved team ewan’ his ht ug bro ge Pa el and I was his main careg tch tells about our and ‘60s when Sa d I was cer tain- tions. to North in what it rs] Sta l Al ent of the Hall of Fame sid ige museum] just as much an pre Pa el As tch rough Dave Shury’s [the Sa she said. but I cer tainly past. Th d Jane Shury’s often be found at their re, can e the t Jan sn’ ly there to support him,” m, wa I seu d.

Mu for ttle an Ba Dave often eet in Battleford and ve was there,” dream Before he passed away, ow the story because Da comm itment and to location on 22nd Str kn d rt, nte po of wa sup e he som tts rt Ba jec pa rth pro im No to o e int nc ve cha dro the spoke about the at hey jumps it through, this said Jane. “T m. ga rage and love to see a at Saskatchewan baseball of ed pp ge sto led y complete for the museu ow the kn d an the past will be pretleford things Dave ntact in the com- sha red ked up over the yea rs to co pic we ’s to “There was a number of do she o y wh tor ed his ask y e, the ser ved for generations . “Number on g a baseball game go tin wanted,” explained Shury d wheelchair visitors. get t ou ab y nit mu . t ha ptimist spoke team, the North come he wanted a building tha On the day the News-O ing. They lined up their t. tha io t tar go On he d m an fro ms le oo up co thr g e, a youn accessible ba Beavers.”

“He wanted with Jan on their Battleford

He wanted the biggest bat in Saskatchewan, but I did one betest bat ter and we got the bigg rt of in Canada. That was pa fulfilling his dream.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 7

The summer that was: oil spill in review Continued from Page 3

By Friday morning, Sept. 16, there was further good news. The Water Security Agency had confirmed the water quality of the North Saskatchewan River to be safe, and approved reopening the water intakes in North Battleford, Prince Albert and Melfort.

But it was still business as usual in North Battleford as officials made clear they would not be reopen their systems until the GE filtration system was in place.

“Right now we have sufficient amount of water supplied by the Town of Battleford pipeline and the wells at WTP No. 1 to meet the water demand in our city,” said Mayor Hamilton in a news release.

“We want to make sure we can supply safe drinking water to our residents and that our water treatment plant as well as our distribution system are protected. Once the additional filtration system in place we are confident that we can do that.”

The other news from that day was that the dredging work for the water intakes would commence again in the coming weeks.

Despite the positive reports coming from the

The City’s efforts to recover from the oil spill into the North Saskatchewan River was expected to continue to be an ongoing story well into 2017.

Husky Reports

—­Photo by Averil Hall

province and from City Hall, many throughout the North Battleford community continued to take a skeptical view of the safety of the river water following the oil spill.

20 oil spill as well as the reported 14-hour delay in reaction from the time

house,” said Segovia, who added that for the next two years the river water should be “tested all the

time to see what’s going in the intakes.”

By year’s end, the longawaited dredging work had been completed on the North Saskatchewan River and work was underway to have the GE filtration system up and commissioned.

Despite cold weather conditions the supply line from Battleford was still operational as of the week of Dec. 12.

However, in his report to council, Schafer said he expected the supply line to be shut down and drained by week’s end, and go into storage until it returned to use in the spring.

North Battleford Parks and Recreation Shop at 11202 - 8th Ave. during regular business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday; the waste management facility during regular business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday This service will run until Jan. 31.

In Battleford trees can

be dropped off in a designated area near the Alex Dillabough Centre.

According to the city it is important for all lights, string, wire, ornaments, tinsel, fake snow and bags to be removed before recycling a tree. Materials left on trees can damage equipment and become mixed in the mulch, which degrades its usefulness.

I’m still going to buy a carbon filter for my house.

Independent Assessment

A public meeting was held Sept. 19 at North Battleford public library in which consultant Ricardo Segovia of E-Tech International and Resurgence Environmental shared findings of their report into the oil spill.

They were highly critical of Husky for its delayed reaction to the July

from now on.

“I’m still going to buy a carbon filter for my

– Ricardo Segovia it began. Segovia recommended people living near the river use carbon filters on their showers and taps

Municipalities recycle Christmas trees Staff Looking for a way to end the holidays in an ecofriendly way?

The City of North Battleford and Town of Battleford will accept real Christmas trees for recycling.

According to a City press release, the remains have a variety of uses, including mulch.

The City says it will be recycling trees into chips for mulch. The mulch is used in tree and shrub beds, improving growth by retaining moisture and suppressing weed growth.

The City invites residents to drop trees off at two locations: City of

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As for the spill itself, it was in mid-November when the cause was finally determined. The findings were released from two reports filed by Husky to the province’s ministry of the economy.

A pipeline metallurgical failure analysis report, by engineering firm Acuren Group Inc., and a geotechnical investigation report by engineering firm Stantec Consulting Ltd., had been conducted.

“Stantec Consulting’s geotechnical report, filed on IRIS (Integrated Resource Information System), has concluded that the pipeline break was the result of geotechnical activity (ground movement).

Acuren Group’s metallurgical report, filed on IRIS, has concluded that the break was a sudden, one‐ time event in a section of the pipe that had buckled due to the force of ground movement. Its report also concluded the break was not the result of material defects, deficiencies or corrosion.”

A 16-inch pipe had buckled, with the bottom of the pipe bulging and splitting, according to the findings.

“The dirt did it. More specifically, wet dirt did it,” reported Brian Zinchuk on Nov. 21.

“The much-anticipated engineering reports explaining the cause of the July 21 Husky pipeline oil spill north of Maidstone which then flowed into the North Saskatchewan River cited ground movement, caused by rain, as the culprit.”

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PAGE 8 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Royal Sask. Museum helps in rare discovery Feathered dinosaur tail embedded in amber Staff Ryan McKellar, Curator of Invertebrate Palaeontology at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, has co-authored a paper in the journal, Current Biology.

The paper outlines the first discovery of a dinosaur tail preserved in amber and provides insight into the evolution of feathers. Discovered in Myanmar in 2015, the specimen was originally destined to become a curiosity or piece of jewelry.

McKellar’s colleague Lida Xing, China University of Geosciences, purchased the specimen from an amber market. Xing recognized its potential scientific importance.

Within the amber, visible to the naked eye, is a dense covering of feathers protruding from a tail segment which includes eight vertebrae and part of a ninth. Colleagues in China used a synchrotron radiation x-ray scan, which enabled them to identify soft tissue, likely muscles, ligaments and skin, as well as trace amounts of ferrous iron indicating relics of hemoglobin remain trapped within the tail.

“We used the specialized photography and microscopy setup at the RSM to do most of the detailed specimen study,

The bone shapes showed that this tail was long and flexible, which is unlike the tail type present in modern birds and their close relatives — Ryan McKellar while the bones and specimen chemistry were studied using synchrotrons in China,” McKellar said.

“The synchrotron scans allowed us to see the outlines of the bones, and how the feathers attached to the skin. The bone shapes showed that this tail was long and flexible, which is unlike the tail type present in modern birds and their close relatives.”

What makes this speci-

men particularly unique is that although these feathers are not the first to be found in amber, most other discoveries have been challenging to link to their source animal. McKellar says this specimen unquestionably represents the feathered tail of a nonavian dinosaur preserved in the amber from about 99 million years ago.

The RSM is one of only a few facilities in the world where this type of fossil feather research is taking place.

McKellar and his colleagues at the museum work on amber from dinosaur bone beds across the prairie provinces. They are looking for insects and ecological details and say they hope to someday find comparable specimens.

McKellar has broad interests in palaeontology, however his current research is focused primarily on amber inclusions and composition. He says he believes there is tremendous value in amber as a supplement to the fossil record of dinosaurs.

“This is a new source of information that is worth researching with intensity, and protecting as a fossil resource,” McKellar said.

This project was funded in part by a National Geographic Expeditions Council grant.

Blade-like barbules with weak pigmentation from the dorsal plumage. Photo courtesy Royal Saskatchewan Museum (R.C. McKellar)

Lida Xing and Ryan McKellar holding amber pieces from the study site. Photo by Shenna Wang

Semis spin out on Don Ross hill Staff Battlefords RCMP responded to more than 65 incidents between Friday, Dec. 30 and Saturday, Dec. 31.

Friday, Dec. 30

6:45 a.m. - Report of two semi trucks that had spun out on the Don Ross hill trying to drive up it.

Members assisted with traffic control while the road was reopened.

6:52 a.m. - Report of a physical altercation be-

Check out The Battlefords RCMP Daily Report on our website at

www.newsoptimist.ca

tween two people at a residence on the 1000 block of 110th Street. Still under investigation.

1:38 p.m. - Report of a break and enter to a residence on Days Beach. A television and other items were stolen.

6:07 p.m. - Report of a theft of cable from a truck parked at a business on Thatcher Avenue.

10:14 p.m. - Report of an unwanted intoxicated person at a residence on the Saulteaux First Nation.

Saturday, Dec. 31

2:32 a.m. - Report of a possible impaired driver operating a vehicle on the ice in Cochin in an unsafe manner.

5:33 a.m. - Report of a suspicious vehicle parked in front of a business on the 1100 block of 100th Street.

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Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 9

Leko’s Conservation Corner

Ice safety: it’s up to individuals to decide

By Lindsey Leko

Ministry of Environment

The rifles from hunting season are put away and outdoor enthusiasts across the province are switching their focus to getting out to do some ice fishing. I plan to write a future column on the rules and regulations around ice fishing, but figured I had better start off with some basic ice safety.

I have spent some time in the far north where safety on the ice is important, and I have taken some ice rescue courses as a conservation officer, and as a fireman.

This year will be no different than many others in the past with a wide range of snow depths, ice thicknesses and temperature variances. The end of November and early December is when our officers often get calls about ice thickness and people wanting to know if it is safe to go out onto the ice. No officer is going to give you the OK to go out onto the ice and the public should not count on the opinion of the conservation officer just because we perform compliance checks on ice fishermen. I can assure you that if the ice is not thick enough, you won’t find us out on the ice. The onus is on you to make sure that ice conditions are safe.

If you plan to take a vehicle onto the ice, be sure it is safe to do so.

Ice thickness and quality can be affected by warm weather, snowfall and underwater currents.

Ice colour can be an

Lindsey Leko indicator of ice strength.

Blue clear ice is strongest, while white/opaque ice is a mixture of ice, snow, bubbles and is much weaker than blue ice.

Poor quality ice is often a result of repetitive freezing and thawing of the ice.

The Saskatchewan Anglers’ Guide has an ice thickness chart that is to be used as a guide only.

We take our figures from the Canadian Red Cross.

There should be at least four inches of ice to walk on, six inches to drive a snowmobile or ATV on, eight inches to drive a car or light truck on, and 12 inches to drive a heavy truck on.

I know many people have gone out on ice thinner than that and lived to tell the tale, but I certainly would not recommend it just to catch a walleye.

I remember watching commercial fishermen in the north walking on ice that was only a few inches thick using four-foot by eight-foot sheets of ply-

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wood to hold their weight while they pulled nets. At times you could actually see the ice moving in waves. It was crazy!

Ice thickness should not be the sole measure of whether it is safe to go on.

Clear hard ice is the only ice that is recommended to travel on. Remember that even the strongest ice still cracks from time to time, which is usually a result of expansion and movement of the ice from changing temperatures. I know that the loud crack is enough to make my kids drop their iPad and look to Dad to assure them of their safety.

Remember to avoid ice that is slushy in appearance, ice near moving water and ice near structures such as pressure ridges.

Pressure ridges often occur when two large pieces of floating ice collide, joining and making one large piece of ice. Often there is open water and pools around the pressure ridge where the two masses collide.

Slush is not always a sign of weak ice and may just be a result of water on the surface of the ice that is covered and blanketed by the snow. Although not always dangerous, you should take care to avoid it.

For those of you driving, make sure that you do not make speed a priority. Speeding across ice creates waves under the ice that will make it to shore sooner than you and can damage the ice as you come off.

As a rule of thumb, I do not travel on lakes

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where no one has travelled before me. Why be the explorer when you do not have to be? If you choose to travel on ice, it is a good idea to open your windows.

If you happen to go through the ice in a vehicle, do not panic. Exit the vehicle as soon as you can. The open window will assist you, as water pressure or ice around each door may not allow it to open.

If you have kids in the vehicle, help them out first before you exit the vehicle. When you get onto the ice, roll away from the vehicle. Don’t go back into the vehicle for your phone, iPad or

favourite fishing pole.

As well, remember there may be hazards out on the ice other than ice thickness.

Reduced visibility, open holes and large ice chunks are all possibilities when out on the ice.

It’s possible to be in a nice toasty ice shack oblivious to the outside world, when all of a sudden you get up to leave and you cannot see your truck because of the blizzard that just arrived.

Ice fishers sometimes like to make large twofoot by four-foot or bigger holes in the ice. Those ice chunks, or the hole left behind, can cause hazards for you or others. I recom-

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mend marking the hole after leaving to make others aware of the potential hazard.

Finally, remember to always tell someone where you have gone and when you plan to come home. Most of us have cellphones, but it is safer to check in from time to time.

Until next time, keep yourself on the dry side of the frozen water.

— Ministry of Environment Conservation Officer Lindsey Leko has spent more than 25 years as a conservation officer in Saskatchewan. If you have questions, please contact lindsey.leko@gov. sk.ca.

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PAGE 10 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

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Lucas Punkari

Sports Reporter

Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223

Email: newsoptimist.sports@sasktel.net

Breaking down the Canadian Open It’s not often that a massive sporting event happens just three days into the year in a town like North Battleford.

That’s the scenario that will be playing here starting Tuesday and lasting through until Sunday as the Pinty’s Grand Slam of Curling’s Meridian Canadian Open takes place at the Civic Centre.

Even if you aren’t a massive curling fan, this is something worth checking out, as there are a number of star-studded teams among the 32 rinks that will be coming to town.

Plus, for many of the Canadian squads, this is their last chance to earn some momentum before they head to their provincial playdowns and try to make the Scotties Tournament of Hearts or the Tim Hortons Brier.

With all that in mind, here’s a rundown of the teams to keep an eye out for this week, whether you are at the Civic Centre or watching on television.

Men’s Field

Although Thomas Ulsrud and his magical pants from Norway sadly won’t be here, the 16-team bracket is very stout.

Unlike the women’s side of the bracket, there will be rinks from Saskatchewan in the field as Steve Laycock and Bruce Korte will be bringing their Saskatoon-based rinks to North Battleford.

Laycock, who was born in Yorkton, has won the last three men’s provincial playdowns and picked up a bronze medal at the Brier two years ago.

Rick Folk was the last curler to win a national men’s championship for Saskatchewan back in 1980, and Laycock’s easily the best bet to end that lengthy drought.

There will be some other Saskatchewan connections sprinkled throughout the field on the men’s side.

Moose Jaw’s Pat Simmons is the third for Brendan Botcher’s Edmonton squad, Regina’s

View from the Nosebleeds Lucas Punkari - Sports Reporter newsoptimist.sports@sasktel.net

Braeden Moskowy throws third stones for the Reid Carruthers’ rink out of Winnipeg and Ben Hebert of Regina is the lead for Kevin Koe’s Calgarybased team.

The Carruthers foursome is among three of the main favourites for the Canadian Open, with the others being Sweden’s Niklas Edin and Brad Gushue of St. John’s, N.L. Carruthers is having his best year as a skip to date as he earned an Olympic Trials spot by winning the Canada Cup of Curling in Brandon, Man. back in December.

He also made it to the final at the most recent

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Grand Slam of Curling event, the Boost National, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. last month, where he lost in the final to defending Olympic gold medalist Brad Jacobs.

Although Gushue was out of action for most of the first half of the season with a hip and groin injury, his rink has played well in his absence by being in the mix at every bonspiel they’ve been in.

With that said, Edin is the skip to watch, as his rink has been the best in the world so far this year.

The two-time world champions won the first two Grand Slam of Curling events of the season, the World Financial Group Masters in Okotoks, Alta. and the Tour Challenge in Cranbrook, B.C., before capturing his fifth European Curling Championship.

With the way he’s playing right now, it’s hard to bet against Edin being in the mix to win his third world championship later this year and he’ll certainly be a favourite to capture a gold medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

Naturally, I’m going to be slightly biased in the press box when Team Jacobs plays since they are from my hometown, but they will be coming to North Battleford with confidence after winning in their own rink a few weeks ago.

On the other hand, defending World Champion Koe and Winnipeg’s Mike McEwen, will both be eager to turn things around as they have been having subpar seasons, by their lofty standards, on the cashspiel circuits.

Meanwhile, two sleep-

ers to keep an eye out for are John Epping and John Morris.

It’s hard to classify Morris as a sleeper given all of his success over the years, but he’s flying under the radar a little bit compared to some of the other big name teams, and his Vernon, B.C. rink is always one to watch out for.

Epping, who is from Toronto, is the best curler yet to make it to the Brier and is one of the best shooters in the business.

He is also the defending Canadian Open champion after defeating Gushue in Yorkton in December 2015.

Rounding out the field are Greg Baldson of Kingston, Ont., Americans Heath McCormick and John Shuster, Scotland’s Kyle Smith and Charley Thomas of Edmonton.

Women’s Field

There are a couple of notable absences that makes this event pretty interesting as Scotland’s Eve Muirhead and reinging World Champion Binia Feltscher of Switzerland aren’t part of the 16-team field.

As mentioned earlier, there are no Saskatchewan rinks coming to North Battleford, but there will be a couple of skips from the province that will be competing.

Regina’s Michelle Englot is skipping her Winnipeg-based rink while Val Sweeting, who grew up in Maryfield, will be leading her Edmonton based foursome.

Sweeting has a Grand Slam of Curling event title to her name this season, as she won the Tour Challenge in November.

The other two event winners will also be in town this week.

Alison Flaxey’s Caledon, Ont. rink won the Masters, while Kerri Einarson’s East St. Paul, Man. team captured the National crown.

This year has been an interesting one in women’s curling, as there has yet to be a rink that has stood out

from the pack.

It could be argued the most consistent rink has been Sweden’s Anna Hasselborg, as the 2010 World Junior champion has been this year’s breakout performer.

With all that said, you can never count out Jennifer Jones.

The reigning Olympic gold medalists from Winnipeg are still the standard bearers for women’s curling, and they won the Canada Cup last month over Rachel Homan.

Speaking of Homan, her Ottawa-based rink might be the most interesting team to watch this week.

Coming into the Canadian Open, which she won over Jones in December 2015 in Yorkton, the twotime Scotties champion has made it to the playoffs at 18 straight Grand Slam of Curling events.

With that said, the last calendar year has been a strange one for the team.

Since they were upset in the Ontario Scotties playdowns last winter, they’ve yet to showcase their dominant form from the first half of last season on a consistent basis.

Two other rinks that will be looking for some momentum this week are Calgary’s Chelsea Carey and Russia’s Anna Sidorova.

Carey has struggled a bit after winning her firstever Scotties title last year, while Sidorova will be looking to bounce back after missing out on playing at the European Championships.

Also keep an eye out for Switzerland’s Silvana Tirinzoni, who will have five-time Scotties champion Cathy OvertonClapham joining her on the team this week.

Rounding out the field are Tracy Fleury of Sudbury, Ont., Jacqueline Harrison of Mississauga, Ont., Briane Meilleur of Winnipeg, Kelsey Rocque of Edmonton, Casey Scheidegger of Lethbridge, Alta. and China’s Bingyu Wang.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 11

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Orcas on the podium at ManSask meet Staff

Orcas on the podium during December’s Manitoba Saskatchewan Championships were Taylor Parker, Madison Higgs and Brandon Nord. Posing with the swimmers is coach Ally Macleod. Photo submitted

Beaver Blues and Combines split series Staff The holiday rivalry games between the Battleford Beaver Blues and Meota Combines resulted in two different outcomes.

In the first meeting between the two Saskatchewan Prairie Hockey League teams, the Combines skated away with a narrow 3-2 win Dec. 23 at the Civic Centre.

Bo Gervais had a goal and an assist in the win for the Combines, while Brody Tatchell dished out two assists.

Levin Floen and Scott Maunula also scored for the Combines, who got some big saves in goal from Dallas Wright.

The Beaver Blues offence came from one line as Cody Danberg scored both of his team’s goals.

Linemates Mike George and Brent Salzl each had two assists in the game, which ended a three-game win streak for the Beaver Blues.

The New Year’s Eve rematch proved to be a dominating one for the Beaver

Blues, as they cruised to a 9-2 win at the Battleford Arena.

Danberg was dominant once again as he had three goals and three assists in the victory.

George dished out five assists while Salzl had two goals and two assists, to continue an impressive week for the trio.

Dillon Friesen had a pair of goals while Traye Tkatchuk and Tyler Wasmuth also found the back of the net.

Michael Pylypow and Taylor Tatchell scored for the Combines in the loss.

In between their two meetings with the Beaver Blues, the Combines saw their three-game win streak come to an end as they dropped a 7-5 affair on the road to the Edam Three Stars on Wednesday night.

Daxen Collins paced the Combines on offence with a goal and two assists, while Riley Albert dished out a pair of helpers.

Maunula and Taylor Tatchell had a goal and an assist each in the loss for

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the visitors, who also had goals from Marc Migneault and Derek Welford.

Owen LaClare led the way for the Three Stars with two goals and three assists, while Tristan Deronoski and Mitch Wall also found the back of the net twice.

Wall currently leads the SPHL in scoring with 46 points in 10 games and has a 14-point cushion over Danberg.

Wednesday’s win over the Combines came in between two dominating perfomances for the Three Stars.

They cruised to a 14-1 victory over the Glaslyn North Stars on Dec. 23 and followed that up with a 21-1 rout over the Spiritwood Timberwolves Friday night.

The Beaver Blues, who are tied for third in the SPHL standings with the Hafford Hawks, will

be back in action Friday night at the Battleford Arena when they’ll host the Glaslyn North Stars at 8 p.m.

They will travel to Maymont Saturday evening to face the Settlers.

Meanwhile, the Combines will have a week off before returning to action on the road Jan. 13 against the Settlers.

Thier next game at the Civic Centre will be on Jan. 20 against Cut Knife.

The Combines are currently in fifth place in the league standings and are only two points behind the Beaver Blues and Hawks.

The Shellbrook Slivertips and Three Stars are tied for first place in the SPHL with 16 points, but the Silvertips have two games in hand.

The defending league champions are also the only unbeaten team in the SPHL with an 8-0 record.

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Members of the Orcas Speed Swimming Club earned four medals and broke several team records at the Manitoba Saskatchewan Championships held in Regina Dec. 8-11.

Madison Higgs won two bronze and a silver and set two club records. She was also picked to swim on the Saskatchewan 12 and under provincial relay team to swim against Manitoba in the 200 medley relay.

Brandon Nord won a gold medal and set six club records. Taylor Parker won a bronze and also set six club records.

Coach Ally Macleod suggested, “this might have been the best ManSask for our Orcas.”

Individual results Brandon Nord (six new club records): 200 metre individual medly - fourth; 100 M butterfly - first; 200 M breaststroke - fifth; 200 M butterfly - fifth ; 50 M breaststroke - fourth; 50 M butterfly - fourth; 100M breaststroke - fifth.

Taylor Parker (six new club records): 1500 M freestyle - third; 50 M freestyle - sixth; 400 M freestyle - fifth; 800 M freestyle fourth; 100 M freestyle - 10th; 50 M backstroke - 12th; 200 M freestyle sixth.

Madison Higgs (two

new club records): 200 M individual medly - sixth; 100M butterfly - second; 50 M freestyle - seventh; 400 M freestyle - sixth; 100 M freestyle - third; 200 M backstroke - 12th; 50 butterfly - third Coach Macleod says Reece Sommerfeld and Elizabeth Johnson were at their very first ManSask championship.

Elizabeth took two seconds off her previous best time in the 50 M butterfly and almost five seconds off of her 200 M freestyle time.

Reece took 15 seconds off her 100 M backstroke time, half a second off her 50 M freestyle and more than a second off her 50 M butterfly and 50 backstroke times. Reece also placed 11th in 800 M freestyle.

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PAGE 12 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

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FUNERAL SERVICES HUCULAK: Nestor Victor Huculak, March 25, 1926 – December 19, 2016. Nestor passed away with family by his side on Monday, December 19, 2016 at the age of 90 years. Service arrangements will be noted in this paper at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Acadia-McKague’s Funeral Centre, Saskatoon (306-955-1600). __________________________________________________________

OBITUARIES NORDGREN: In Loving Memory of Maymie Ella Nordgren, born October 23, 1924 at Glaslyn, Saskatchewan, passed away December 19, 2016 in Edam, Saskatchewan. Survived by her loving husband of 73 years, Vern; children and grandchildren: Allan children: Dennis (Leah), Brian, Randy & Angela (Chris); Gloria (Woody) Cherwoniak children: DeAnne (Larry) & Shawn; Lyle “Sam’s” children: Becky (Boau) & David (Andrea); Ralph - children: Chelsea (Thomas) & Shane; Sharon’s children: Christie, Ian & Laurel (Jarod); nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Peter and Sophie Hilsen; daughter Sharon (2009), son Lyle (2015), great-grandson Walker Meston (2009); brothers: Percy, Harry, Stan, Roy and Ray Hilsen. Celebration Of Life was held on Friday, December 23, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. from the Glaslyn Community Hall, Glaslyn, SK., with Minister Rev. Kun Kim. Shared Memories were given by Allan Nordgren & Laurel Tompson. Music Ministry: Musician - Helen Pylypow; Hymn Selections: “Amazing Grace” & “Shall We Gather At The River.” Honourary Pallbearers were All who shared mom’s life. Active Pallbearers were Ian Walker, Shawn Young, Shealyn Fehr, David Nordgren, Laurel Tompson and Kaitlyn Fehr. Memorial Donations are requested to S.P.C.A. (Saskatchewan Branch), Telemiracle or Donors Choice. Interment was at the Glaslyn Cemetery, Glaslyn, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________

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OBITUARIES WILSON: Doris Wilson 1922-2016. Doris Wilson died peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, December 18 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Doris (Doe) was born in Edmonton, in 1922. Quiet, thoughtful and articulate, she told wonderful stories, sharing her childhood on the prairies and in North Battleford, her time as a student at University of Saskatoon and working as a nurse, teacher and her many years with the RCMP as a civil servant.

She also loved to read, write and learn (in French and English) but most of all she loved her family and friends. She is survived by her sister Velma, her brother in law Dave and her sister in law Eunice and her nieces and nephews and their children. A celebration of life is being planned in April, 2017 at Saskatoon Funeral Home. Condolences for the family may be left at www.saskatoonfuneral.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME (306) 244-5577 ___________________________________________________ KEILBACK: Mr. Charles “Chuck” Keilback, of North Battleford passed away peacefully December 15,2016, at the Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, SK at the age of 84 years. Left to cherish Chuck’s memory are his loving wife Bunty; children Sherry (Arthur) Bachmann; Candace (Roddy) Whitwell and their daughter Brittany (Miles Fader); Missy (Jody) Reiter and their children Calder and Ava; and sister Yvonne Nazarko. Chuck is predeceased by his brother Norman Keilback; sister Doreen Hood; and grandson Michael Whitwell.

Celebration of Life Service was held December 19, 2016 at 2:00 pm at the Don Ross Centre Gymnasium, North Battleford, SK, with Reverend Jack Carr officiating. Memorial donations in memory of Chuck may be directed to Shriners Children Hospital Travel Fund, 1003 Decarie Boulevard Montreal, Quebec H4A 0A9, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. For those wishing to leave a condolence you may do so at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

BARTKEWICH: In Loving Memory of Irene Ruth Bartkewich, born March 22, 1944 27-52-19 W3rd, SK at Turtleford District, SK., passed away December 10, 2016 at Battlefords Union Hospital, North Battleford, SK. Survived by her loving family: Darryl & Lindsay, Calgary, AB - Bobby & Catherine: Brayden & Brooklyn, Rural North Battleford, SK; brothers and sisters: Allan Millard, Vern (Ella Mae) Millard, Leo (Penny) Millard, John (Bonnie) Millard, Eva (Garnet) Speer, Janet (Raymond) Scott and Clara Johnson; brother-in-law, George Gray; nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents: Scott & Ann Millard; husband, Alphonse Bartkewich; daughter, Debbie Bartkewich; sister, Betty Gray; brother-in-law, Arvid Johnson. Celebration Of Irene’s Life was held on Thursday, December 15, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. from the Heritage Room - Western Development Museum, North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Honourary Pallbearers were All who shared Irene’s life. Memorial Donations are requested to the Donors Choice. Private Interment was at Garden Of Devotion - Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. __________________________________________________

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DUSTAN: Alice Eileen Dustan, March 13, 1922 - December 20, 2016. Eileen passed away peacefully Dec 20, 2016 at River Heights Lodge, North Battleford, Sask.

She is survived by her children Gary (Bev), Kirk (Patti), Kathy (Peter) Keller, Alex (Christine), as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pre-deceased by her husband Alex, daughter Adrienne and infant son Alex, as well as her parents and siblings. Born March 13, 1922 to Louis and Margaret Sullivan in Kipling Sask. Married Alex R. Dustan on April 4th 1942, moved to North Battleford in 1954, where they raised their family and were involved in many community organizations. After Dad’s passing she moved to St. Albert Alberta. Eileen returned home to North Battleford in 2012 and spent her remaining years at Harwood Manor, Battleford District Care Centre and River Heights Lodge. We would like to thank all those who cared for mom in her final years trying to make the remainder of her life as comfortable as possible. As her request Internment will follow summer of 2017 at Woodlawn cemetery, on a nice warm sunny day she will join her husband Alex once again forever.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Trevor Watts at Eternal Memories.

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Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 13

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

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PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 500,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1400 or email classifieds@swna.com for details.

WANTED All wild fur - coyotes, etc. Shed antlers and racks. Old traps. Call Bryon 306-278-7756 or Phil 306278-2299.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES North Battleford Triplex with garage - $229,900. 8% cap rate. 3 suites - $1000, $875, $650/month single net. $30,300 Potential Gross Income. Call 306-937-5073

BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 306-445-7261 OBITUARIES POLISCHUK, PETER: The family of Peter Polischuk sadly announces his passing on Thursday, December 8th, 2016 at the age of 96 years.

He was surrounded by his loving family as he left the earthly world for the greater beyond. Peter was conscripted into the army during World War II. Health issues prevented Peter from qualifying for the Air Force, so he eventually made his way to the Queen Charlotte Islands as a gunner.

Finally Peter found himself in England, stationed as an Officer’s Batman. This meant that he was at their beck and call.

Ironing uniforms, prepping meals, being a runner, bartending at various officer functions which leads to a story about how after the first few rounds of drinks were served, the amount of alcohol in a drink might mysteriously be a bit less. And how at the end or the evening there was plenty of alcohol left over for the attending team after party. Upon returning home from the war, Peter married the love of his life Annie, and the two began farming land near Ibstone District. In 1965 they moved to North Battleford, but he continued to farm. His dedication, persistence and love of the land were very evident: after selling his own farm he would help his brother Alex with farm chores or looking after his daughter Pat’s garden and yard. Peter loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He never shied away from spending time with them, and loved watching them to give his daughters a well-deserved break. Peter, or Deido as his family calls him, the hardened farmer with bad knees, would dress dollies, color, build doll houses, and then some, to the enjoyment of his grandchildren. That love that he gave was repaid time and again. All you have to do is mention Deido and eyes light up and stories come out. Kindness and generosity most definitely defined Peter’s character, especially how he treated people. The respect that he showed others was returned time and again. You can shed a tear that he is gone or you can smile because he lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left. Peter leaves to cherish his memory: his darling wife of 69 years Annie; daughters Judith (Roy) Biller and Patricia (Brian) Squire; grandchildren Timothy Biller- Jesse, Jacob and Tyler; Pamela (Mark) StadnykEmma; Jessica (Scott) Craig- Madisyn, Taylor, Hudson and Hailey; Heather (David) Jonson- Cicely; Melissa (Joel) Squire-Clark; Alexandra Squire (James Reagan); brothers in-law Nick (Mary Anne) Sanoy, Peter (Adeline) Sanoy and Bill (Jean) Sanoy; Sister in-law Irene Arsenault; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Peter is predeceased by his siblings Rudy, Annie, Nettie, Jean, Mike, Walter, Lorne and Alex. Funeral services for Peter were held on Wednesday, December 14th from the Chapel of Sallows & McDonald-Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home with Mrs. Joyce Salie officiating. Eulogy was written and read by Peter’s son-in-law Roy Biller, with words of remembrance by the grandchildren. Lunch reception was held after the service, with interment at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford following. Memorial donations in Peter’s honor are to be forwarded to Villa Pascal, 1301 113th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 3K1. Condolences for the family can be left at www.sallowsandmcdonald.com. The family has entrusted Martine de Bussac of Sallows & McDonald-Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home with arrangements. The family wishes to extend their deepest thanks and appreciation to the wonderful staff of Villa Pascal. All the love, attention and hard work that went into Deido’s care was above and beyond, and we are so grateful for all of you.

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HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

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HEALTH SERVICES CANADA BENEFIT GROUP - Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessment

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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Start your New Year with a Positive Change! Be a Full time Mom, with a Full Time income, Working a Part Time Job. Call Mandy For more details. 306-480-9789

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Professional

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Chartered Professional Accountants 1282 - 101st Street North Battleford, Sask.

Telephone 306-445-0488 Facsimile 306-446-3155 -PARTNERSGarth Swanson, CPA, CA Greg Gryba, CPA, CA

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300 - 1291 102nd Street North Battleford, SK, S9A 3V4

Phone: 306-445-6234 Fax: 306-445-0245 PARTNERS

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www.newsoptimist.ca for more community events

Community Events Calendar ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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

Tuesdays

Battlefords Humane Society Chase the Ace Diamond in the Ruff Lottery. Tickets $5 each or 3 for $10. Weekly winner gets 20% of that week’s sales plus CHANCE TO WIN 30% progressive jackpot!

Tickets must be purchased weekly to WIN! Don’t miss a draw weekly subscriptions available. All proceeds to Shelter-Us Building Fund. Draws every Tuesday morning, 9:00 a.m., Lakeland Vet Clinic. Call The Shelter for more details 306-937-MEOW (6369).

Lottery licence LR15-0091.

Tuesdays, January 10 - February 14

LiveWell with Chronic Conditions Workshop at the North Battleford Library at 1:00 p.m. Self management workshop for individuals with chronic (ongoing) health conditions. We meet for 2 1/2 hours a week for 6 weeks. Very interactive program facilitated by trained leaders. Topics discussed; getting a good nights sleep, healthy eating, keeping active, problem solving, action plans, decision making and communication. Family members and caregivers are welcome. For more information phone 306-446-8613.

Wednesdays, January 11 - March 29

Time for Tots at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 a.m. at the North Battleford Library. Come and enjoy 30 minutes of simple stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 18 months to 3 years and their parents or caregivers.

Wednesday, January 11

Financial Planning 101 at the North Battleford Library at 7:00 p.m.

Designed for individuals and families. We will take you through the fundamental elements required in putting together a solid financial plan: things to consider, questions to ask yourself and what action steps are required. In addition, we will review some of the more popular government sponsored savings vehicles (RRSP, TFSA, etc.), discuss how to create and stick to a budget and share tips on paying down debt faster.

Thursdays, January 12 - March 30

LEGO Club at the North Battleford Library from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Join our Kids Lego Club where you can create, build and use your imagination. Lego provided.

Fridays, January 13 - March 31

Tales and More at the North Battleford Library at 10:45 a.m.

Come and enjoy 45 minutes of stories, rhymes and finger plays for ages 3 to 5 years.

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.

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PAGE 14 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

3. Lack of appreciation 30. Followed 4. Rose plant fruit 32. Brat 33.Aretha 10.Zilch 5. Crumb 34. ___-Wan Kenobi Franklin hit 11.Snow coaster 6. “The ___ Daba Hon36. Beg 36.Snare eymoon” 38. Characteristic carrier 19.Cut one’s 39. Campus military org. 7. molars Approaching 37.Bar 41. Holding one’s piece 8. Charger 39.Trait carriers 21.Spiders’ 43. Cut, maybe 9. Didn’t shuffle 41.Turn over 44. Unfair?

10.structures “The Sweetheart of quickly 45. Brown shade Sigma ___” 22.Angel’s 47. Crystal meth, in 11. “Andy Capp” 42.Camp carheadgear slang toonist Smythe helper, e.g.

23.Like some 48. Fancy hat 12. Addis Ababa’s 43.Foal land: 51. Italian ___ Abbr. cheese 45.Prayer 53. Discern 13.

“Dig in!”

25.Song 55. Muscle contracting 19. Fingerboard ridge concluder 28.Commits disease 21. Cable network 49.Brewery 58. Cover 24.perjury Cantina cooker beverage 60. Appeared 25.

Equals 29.Skilled 50.Prosecute 61. Ancient 27. Advocate 30.Army eatery 51.Wish 67. Bit 28. Memos issued by 68. Atmospheres seller to buyer 69. Beautiful young 29. Bartender’s supply woman© 2015, Penny Press Copyright 31. Women of rank 70. Bird-to-be 33. Network of nerves 28.Take it 71. Bait find 34. “Carmina Burana” in on the ____ 72. Put 55.Dogs and composer 31.Made holy 73. “Comprende?” cats 35. Like visiting teams, 46. Bromo ingredient 49. Doctor Down often 32.Clan 56.Fountain 50. Air force heroes 1. Affected ____ by some- 37. Cache 34.Turf thing bad (arc.)

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 757 52. Ring bearer, maybe 40. Coagulate adult 57.Young 35.Stags and 2. Vineyard 54. Church donation fruit 42. Banquet

Across E NO. 757 1. Computer-generated image (acronym) 4. Some horses 9. Slope of loose rock debris 14. Ashes holder 15. Circle 16. Certain sorority member 17. Dust remover 18. Afraid of performing 20. Waste piece of casting 22. Achilles, e.g.

23. Restaurant for tea and light meals 26. Take off

Puzzle Solution

SS dge’s ncern gnal assent s aft animals ot temper oderately ld cade unit ort-term job ne ____ ernate ot the best

bucks 38.Foot parts DOWN 1. Shy 39.Polite chap 2. Woodsman’s 40.Winding curves implement 41.Coin side 3. Caribbean, e.g.

44.Hobo 4. Registers 46.MGM’s trademark 5. Close, once 47.Glass part 6. Adjust to rgest surroundings ammal 48.Effortlessas I know it 7. Unit of heat ose 52.Resting 8. Happen ld bird 53.Act like By Colleen Crawford lf of twenty 54.Detective’s 9. Dates

What’s next?

LIFE

It is both terrifying and attending. I must be home exhilarating to be standing and available for nine at this precipice in my life hours a day, five days a and wondering, “Where week. So I must stay home do I go from here?” I am and be present for my nervous about my income little almost two-year-old level being slashed to an who is really quite adorall time low due to my able when left to her own “early retirement” from devices. my daycare, but at the I have to stay home and same time I am grateful to make the best of things for be stuck in a place where I the next three months. It can’t do too much about it. is a tiny bit like a threeI am still committed to month staycation. I will my daycare for as long as finally get that holiday at CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS my last daycare child is home I have been craving.

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56. Grammar topic 57. Bulrush, e.g.

59. Come into view 61. Congratulations, of a sort

62. Morgue, for one 63. Victorian, for one 64. Consumes 65. Hangup 66. Anger

I am pretty excited.

I woke up this morning and felt grateful for my work-at-home experience. I love this space. I am grateful for the dress code and thrilled that I don’t have to wear shoes.

Makeup is optional and bad hair days are no big deal. I love my little self employed life.

The question is: “Can I keep doing some version of what I am doing?” Another question is: “Should I keep doing another version of what I am presently doing?”

I have been living a life without health benefits, sick leave, paid vacations and pension for 18 years.

It hasn’t been impossible and I have managed quite well. The thing is (and I suppose this is important), I am reaching an age where health benefits, sick leave and a pension have become something that is more important than ever. If I stop working, my income stops coming in. Immediately. “This” is what the next three months of my life will teach me.

I have been fortunate to be playing such a vital role in my own decision to wind down my daycare.

Life could have dealt me a different hand. An accident or health issue could have stopped me in my tracks and not only would I be without an income, I would have to deal with the consequences of a body that wasn’t in good working condition.

I often muse over the fact that often, if we don’t slow down and take heed to life’s subtle messages that we need to stop what we are doing, “life” makes the choice for us. Take one exhausted, stressed soul

and toss them back into the arena that is breaking them down slowly but surely each and every day and you end up with a person whose body starts breaking down under the stress. Or making an error in judgment or not reacting quickly enough to avoid some kind of accident.

I have been a strong believer that if you don’t listen to life’s subtle and not so subtle clues that you need to stop in your tracks and change something, “life” will take the decision out of your hands.

I’m grateful to be steering my own ship at this point. I knew I wanted to stop and enjoy the scenery at a harbour while I refueled, refreshed and “renovated” a little.

That is exactly how I feel about the upcoming three-month reprieve I have been given. This little benefit comes without income, benefits or a pension. But I have my health. I have my mind. I will find my quiet place in the sun. My answers will come.

If money is the worst of our problems, we are very fortunate indeed. I am feeling like I’m living a pretty charmed life right about now. What I don’t have in dollars and cents, I have in appreciation for what I already have and common sense.

What’s next? I’m not exactly sure. But I do know I’m glad I don’t need to know this by tomorrow, or within two weeks. I have been given the gift of time. “Time” is all I have been aching and yearning for. I never dream about being “rich.” I am already rich in all that truly matters.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - PAGE 15

A version of Auld Lang Syne for God’s people It’s a song that is often sung to welcome in the new year. Auld Lang Syne has also been used at graduations, funerals and farewells and, for years, the Boy Scouts organization sang it to close their jamborees. The song was a favourite of Hollywood director Frank Capra, and he used it in three classic films: Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and It’s a Wonderful Life.

But perhaps many are unsure of the meaning of the repeated phrase.

The words of the song are adapted from lines of verse written in 1788

by Scottish poet Robert

Burns. “Auld lang syne” means, literally, old long since. When the refrain says, “We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, / for auld lang syne,” it means, “Let’s have a drink together, for old time’s sake.”

The song’s focus on imbibing an alcoholic beverage with one’s friends is brought out even more strongly in the poet’s original. “And surely you’ll buy your pint cup! / And surely I’ll buy mine! / And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, / for auld lang syne” – though for those of us who don’t celebrate in that way, the “cup o’ kindness” will be something less potent.

The gift of peace In I818, composer and organist, Franz Xaver Gruber, and lyricist, Father Joseph Mohr, worked together to produce what is probably one of the world’s most beloved Christmas carols.

Part of the beautiful refrain we know as Silent Night goes like this, “Holy infant so tender and mild; Sleep in heavenly peace.”

In case you don’t already know the story, here’s a basic

history of the carol.

Gruber and Fr. Mohr collaborated to bring to the congregation a new song, one that could be sung at midnight mass, accompanied by a guitar instead of the traditional church organ. According

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

Without doubt the song was familiar to gospel songwriter Fanny Crosby (1820-1915). But for her it brought to mind something rather different. She wanted to celebrate the special blessings that are ours when Christians get together. In 1894, taking the traditional melody, she

created a lovely song about the fellowship of believers.

That’s a subject that is spoken of in the Word of God a number of times.

It’s found back in the Old Testament, where the psalmist says, “I am a companion of [knit together as kin with] all who fear [God].” (Ps. 119:63)

to various accounts, it had recently been discovered that the organ was not working. Some accounts say that its innards had been eaten by rats, but whatever the cause, the men pooled their gifts and gave their congregation and the world this beautiful melodic version of the Christmas story.

From the small Austrian town of Oberndorf bei Salzburg came what UNESCO declared in 2011 to be a tangible cultural heritage.

The thought of peace, let alone heavenly peace,

has captured my heart and mind during these final days of 2016. Given the atrocities of Syria, the scourge of drug overdose deaths, the explosion of road-rage and gun-related killings and even the trials of every day living, my heart cries for His reign in our lives and our world. If I have a prayer for 2017 it would be this: “Come Lord Jesus, instil your heavenly peace in our individual hearts so that we would be agents of gentleness and reconciliation.”

“Peace I leave with you.

And we have Ruth’s lovely declaration to her motherin-law Naomi, “Wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.” (Ruth 1:16) This kind of bonding souls was experienced by the early church, as Christians “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship.”

(Acts 2:42) It is a link we’re to nurture. The Bible urges, “All of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous.” (I Pet. 3:8) Not only in meeting together, but in service for the Lord, the saints rejoiced in this kinship, calling it “fellowship in the gospel.” (Phil. 1:5) In all they did together they sensed also the promised presence of Christ (Matt.

28:20), and spoke of “the fellowship of His Son.” (I Cor. 1:9) But, as with other close ties that are formed, there is a sense of loss when Christians have to go their separate ways. Paul ministered to the church at Ephesus for three years,

and when he parted from the leaders, “They all wept freely, and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more.” (Acts 20:37-38) However, that bleak parting word needs to be qualified. Though Christians may part here to meet no more, we have the wonderful prospect of meeting again when Christ comes for His own (I Thess. 4:16-17). There is eternal fellowship to be anticipated with “the whole family in heaven.”

(Eph. 3:15) That is the theme of Fanny Crosby’s song.

“How sweet the hour of praise and prayer, / When our devotions blend, / And on the wings of faith divine / Our songs of joy ascend! / ’Tis then we hear in tones more clear / The gracious promise giv’n, / That, though we part from friends on earth, / We all shall meet in heav’n. / We all shall meet in heav’n at last, / We all shall meet in heav’n; / Through faith in Jesus’ precious blood, / We all shall meet in heav’n.”

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PAGE 16 - Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Azaleas are worth the extra trouble

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Creating the Prairie Xeriscape. And with Hugh Skinner: Gardening Naturally; Trees and Shrubs for the Prairies, and Groundcovers & Vines for the Prairies. Expect Fruit for Northern Gardens with Bob Bors in November, 2017.

— This column is pro-

vided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (www.saskperennial. ca; hortscene@yahoo. com; www.facebook.com/ saskperennial). Check out our Bulletin Board or Calendar for upcoming garden information sessions, workshops, tours and other events

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leaves and flowers contain andromedotoxins. (Azaleas and rhododendrons were once so infamous for their toxicity that to receive a bouquet of their flowers in a black vase was a well-known death threat.)

Sara is the author of numerous gardening books, among them the revised

CITIZEN OF TH IOR EY UN

USED EQUIPMENT

Photo at right Nadir D’Onofrio

AR

NORTHWEST

Photo above by Leonid Dzhepko

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five and may be single or double.

By the reign of Queen Victoria, it had entered the British parlour. The Victorians loved azaleas and went on to develop hundreds of additional hybrids. It suited their homes perfectly. A lack of central heating made cooler night temperatures the norm.

Britain is often humid and lace curtains provided indirect diffused lighting.

And if one was fortunate enough to have a parlour in that era, there was generally also a gardener to look after plants.

Our homes, though well suited to the prairie climate, are not as well suited to potted azaleas. Their requirements include cooler temperatures, filtered sun, frequent watering, misting to prevent the buds from drying out and acidic soil.

A temperature of 15 to 18 C will prolong flowering. Not easy in a modern home, but there may be a north or east wall which may be a bit cooler than our normal 21 C. Also

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Azaleas have been available as winter houseplants for decades, but their popularity seems to have always lagged behind that of poinsettias or amaryllis. They’re at their peak for almost the same period, but their requirements are more exact and they have never been as iconic. Yet they offer their own unique freshness.

Most of the azaleas found in florist shops have been developed from Rhododendron simsii, native to China. The original species grows at an altitude of 1,600 to 9,000 feet in a cool, moist environment in acidic soil, forming the understory below tall trees.

The species is an evergreen shrub reaching up to 6.5 feet in height with oval leaves and fluted flowers ranging from white to dark red.

From Canton or Hong Kong, it made its way to Europe. Much of the early hybridizing was carried out in Belgium, France and Germany. Today, its hybrids are about 18 inches in height and spread and are available in wide colour range including red, pink, white, purple, rose, salmon, crimson, violet and bicolours. The flowers are in small clusters of two to

keep in mind that hot air rises, so the lower the plant is placed, the cooler it is likely to be. Any bright area not in direct sunlight will most likely qualify as “filtered light,” especially during the winter. By placing the pot on a tray of pebbles, small rocks or marbles filled with water, you will be promoting a higher humidity. Misting will also increase the humidity. Never allow your azalea to dry out. Check it daily. If the media in which it is planted appears dry, water it. Remove the blossoms as they fade.

When selecting an azalea, look for one with only a few flower buds already open. Leave those with all tight unbroken buds or those already in full bloom. The flowers should appear healthy and be at different stages of development. Check the leaves. If yellowed or the undersides have evidence of whiteflies, spider mites or mealy flies in residence, don’t take it (or them) home. Blooms should last about two to four weeks.

The warmer the room, the shorter the bloom period.

If you share your home with toddlers or pets who are prone to eat houseplants, please note that azaleas are toxic. Both their

R EA

By Sara Williams

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