News
More power for CSOs
2 NDP hopefuls spar over leadership
Politics
Sports
First Person Exploits
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Volume 109 No. 50
North Battleford, Sask.
Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Smiles All Around
Valerie Kuemper, executive director of the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association (left) and Gene Aulinger (right), Region 6 director for SMEA, were at the Saturday afternoon gala closing this year’s Summer School for the Solo Voice to congratulate founder Lisa Hornung on the 20th anniversary of the event. The North Battleford summer school is recognized locally, regionally, provincially, nationally and internationally, said Kuemper, and the board of SMEA had a plaque prepared for Hornung in recognition of her talent, dedication, hard work and amazing organization. The board has also nominated Hornung for the 2017 Outstanding Achievement Award. Fellow North Battleford music educator Aulinger and Hornung are among only 32 individuals to receive such an award from the association. Hornung said she felt “very overwhelmed and very grateful and very humbled by your recognition.” It takes an incredible team of people to put SSSV together, she said, and she thanked the students for what she gets back from them each year in the “delightful circle” that keeps SSSV going. See Thursday’s Regional Optimist for the story and more photos. Photo by Jayne Foster
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PAGE 2 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Left, North Battleford community safety officers and RCMP members. Above, vehicles from their fleets. Photos by John Cairns
Expanded powers for CSOs in effect By John Cairns Staff Reporter
Community safety officers in North Battleford now have expanded powers to investigate low-risk offences in the city. At a ceremony outside City Hall Thursday afternoon, city and provincial officials were on hand to announce the changes that have come into effect as of June 1: The city’s CSOs now have authority to investigate certain low-risk notin-progress Criminal Code offences, such as vandalism, mischief or theft under $5000; CSOs can now respond to motor vehicle collisions without injuries within city limits; Such investigations are now being diverted away from the RCMP, who are being freed up to manage more serious investigations. According to statistical data from 2016, Battlefords detachment received reports of 3,000 incidents of these types, or about 20 percent of the volume, said Mayor Ryan Bater at the news conference. This is the latest step in the development of the Community Safety Offi-
City officials in North Battleford marked the expanded authority of the city’s Community Safety Officers in a ceremony Thursday afternoon outside City Hall. Seen at the event were (left to right) RCMP “F” Division commanding officer Curtis Zablocki, Justice Minister and Attorney-General Gordon Wyant, Mayor Ryan Bater and City Manager Jim Puffalt. Photos by John Cairns
cer program that was introduced in early 2014 in North Battleford and now has seven members. “We believed at that time and continue to believe that innovation and a new approach was required,” said Bater. It remains the first program of its kind in Saskatchewan. Back in 2014, city bylaw enforcement officers took on duties as Community Safety Officers for traffic enforcement and other enhanced duties. Now, they have added the responsibilities for lower-level Criminal Code offences and MVAs. Work has gone on for the last 18
months to put the expanded duties into place, with multiple agencies involved in the discussions. “It’s not something you can do unilaterally,” said Bater. “This is something the city had to work together with the government of Saskatchewan to have the authority to do this, to work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to develop the partnership and develop the protocols in place.” From a citizen point of view, however, Bater adds residents should still call 911 if they see a crime happening such as theft or mischief, and it will be the
RCMP who make the call whether it is the CSOs who act on it. Bater was also asked in the media scrum about the ongoing perceptions from residents that the CSOs are nothing more than traffic enforcement or “rent-acops.” “They’re not rented, they’re full-time employees of the city,” said Bater. He adds the CSOs are there “to enforce the law, they are there do their work, and we expect the residents of North Battleford will respect that. For those who have some misgivings about their role, if you don’t break the law,
they don’t bother you.” Justice Minister and Attorney-General Gordon Wyant welcomed the announcement at City Hall and offered praise for North Battleford’s efforts to launch the CSO program. “They needed a way to tackle community concerns that are low risk for harm, but high priority for their communities. I think the province listened,” Wyant said. He noted interest in the program continues to grow from municipalities and there are currently 35 people trained to be CSOs in the province. “This is an
important part of the government’s mission to make the province a better place to live,” said Wyant. Assistant Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, Commanding officer of F Division, noted the positive impact for the RCMP of the expanded authority for the CSOs . “By expanding those duties one of the anticipated results will be an even greater capacity for the RCMP to focus on more serious criminal activity. It also allows us to be more responsive to the calls and concerns of those we serve – a win-win for the community and for the RCMP.”
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Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 3
NDP leadership hopefuls spar over old age security, carbon pricing By John Cairns Staff Reporter
Four candidates took the stage Tuesday in Saskatoon for the federal New Democrats’ leadership debate, but it was the ideas of one of them in particular that seemed to fire up the others on stage. That would be Jagmeet Singh, the provincial Ontario MPP whose stance on old age security and other issues drew some of the most animated responses on the night. The most interesting exchange erupted when Charlie Angus, MP for Timmins-James Bay, took on Singh on the notion of applying a means test to old age security as part of Singh’s proposal of redistribution to those in poverty. “Mr. Singh, you’re telling us that applying a means test to the old age pension is a progressive idea because it’s about your idea of redistribution. Universality of old age pensions is one of our fundamental principles. It’s a New Democratic Party principle. Why would you take a position that Liberals and Conservatives would have liked?” “First of all it’s Old Age Security that I am talking about, and Old Age Security is not universal right now. So you need to do some research,” Singh responded. “Right now, if you earn more than $70,000, it is already clawed back. So I guess you need to doublecheck your facts. I believe that right now, we have a responsibility to stand up for redistribution.” “A woman, her husband dies, and she has to cash
Guy Caron, Jagmeet Singh, Niki Ashton and Charlie Angus, NDP leadership hopefuls at their debate in Saskatoon. Photo by John Cairns
a bond to pay for his funeral and her pension gets clawed back. That to me is the indignity of what right wing economics does,” Angus responded. “Here in Saskatchewan of all places, how could you call a means test redistribution?” “It is. It’s the definition,” said Singh. “If someone is earning a million dollars a year, they don’t need a thousand dollars a month. That person should be contributing to people in poverty.” After Singh’s response both Guy Caron and Angus held up white cards to ask for additional time to speak. Caron: “It is still NDP policy to fight for universality of programs. Old age security - the NDP was in the forefront of fighting against the end of universality for old age security and family allowances. Our policy hasn’t changed. We still should fight for
universality of those programs...” Angus (to Singh): “You’re talking about people who make a million dollars, when I am talking about widows who are going to be having their savings clawed back because they have to cash bonds to pay for a funeral. It’s the indignities of what’s treated to seniors, and you, my friend, when you make it seem as if it’s a great progressive idea, well, where I come from that is not progressive. Seniors fought for that. Seniors should have that protected. And that to me is a fundamental principle of New Democratic party values in this country.” Singh: “Let me make this clear. Seniors earning over $70,000 already see their OAS clawed back. It is not universal…” Afterwards, Angus and Singh agreed the exchange was a big moment in the
debate. “The issue of universality of seniors programs is a fundamental core principle of the NDP,” Angus said. “I was surprised that he raised that issue here in Saskatchewan where we’ve done so much work to fight for universality of programs. So I think that again, it gave the audience a chance to hear different views. If Mr. Singh is going to take us in that direction, well, it may mean other things may be up now for means tests.” “Old age security is an incredible program, and I want to make sure that we target, we address, with income transfers, that we make sure that our income transfers go to people who need it most,” said Singh. “With universal programs like health care, day care and medical care, these are universal programs that everyone
should have equal access to. But things that require us to tackle poverty mean that we’ll need to have to have some redistribution, and redistribution isn’t universal. So I firmly believe that those who can invest a little bit more need to do so to lift those who are in poverty out of it.” The gang-up on Singh on the old age security issue was notable, and possibly a sign that other candidates regard him as a growing threat in the leadership race. There were several other notable moments on the night, including ones on issues of particular importance to Saskatchewan residents. The issue of national carbon pricing came up early on in the debate as candidates were asked how to reconcile provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan, who were
opposed to it. That prompted a lot of praise from candidates for the approach of Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and a lot of negative remarks towards the Saskatchewan and Manitoba premiers. Angus described Premier Brad Wall as “like the man violently defending the future of the typewriter when everyone else has moved to cellphones.” “Mr. Wall, I’m sorry. But the 20th Century is over, and we are well into the 21st century,” he said. “I’d say get on the program, start working with us.” “My premier, Brian Pallister, doesn’t speak for me,” Manitoba MP Niki Ashton said, adding “we have an NDP vision, a progressive vision, that states clearly that climate change is not a hoax, it is real and we need to take it seriously.” Continued on Page 10
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PAGE 4 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Commentary
Dedicated to bringing about Islamic enlightenment By Brian Giesbrecht
Senior Fellow / Frontier Centre for Public Policy
WINNIPEG, Man. /Troy Media/ - Recent criticism of Parliament’s decision to condemn “Islamophobia” has generated many responses. Some argued that criticizing the intolerance within Islam is anti-Muslim bigotry. Some said that criticizing a person’s religion is wrong. Hot off the press comes an important book, written by a Muslim, explaining why defending radical Islam is wrong. The book, The Atheist Muslim, is written by Ali A. Rizvi, a physician and columnist. He’s also part of a growing number of Muslims dedicated to bringing about an Islamic enlightenment. One of his colleagues said: “Islam urgently needs to undergo the same process as Christianity and Judaism did long before it. It needs to be fed into the same twopart grinder called Secularism and the Enlightenment,” in order to re-interpret intolerant concepts such as jihad, apostasy and blasphemy laws. Those advocating for an Islamic enlightenment include believers and non-believers. Rizvi is an atheist but describes himself as a “cultural Muslim” because he still enjoys many of the traditions and comforts of Islam. He borrows the term from Richard Dawkins, who calls himself a “cultural Christian.” Rizvi’s group is diverse and works for tolerance towards others. If they succeed, people will have the right to decide their religion, what they say, women will enjoy equal rights with men, gays will not be persecuted and the beastly concept of jihad will no longer be used. People like Rizvi meet with considerable opposition. The despots who rule Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Iran use the Qur’an as a hammer over the heads of their subjects. They want Rizvi dead.
Donald Trump’s followers don’t trust any Muslim and disregard these brave folks. But most tragically, the people who should be supporting them – liberals, Muslim and non-Muslim – interpret their pleas to reform Islam as “Islamophobia.” This is what Rizvi says about the Muslim and nonMuslim liberals who foolishly stifle criticism of Islam’s intolerance: “Intolerant attitudes that are unacceptable in general life shouldn’t suddenly become acceptable when presented under the guise of religion. The statement “This is my faith” should not automatically confer immunity on the faithful for misogyny, bigotry, discrimination. ...” What should moderate Muslims and non-Muslims do about the twin problems of intolerance within Islam, and the very real problem of anti-Muslim bigotry? Here’s what Rizvi says: “It is more important now than ever to challenge and criticize the doctrine of Islam. And, it is more important now than ever to protect and defend the rights of Muslims.” Both of these go together. Doing the first without the second would be grossly unfair to millions of good Muslims who are not only the most frequent victims of Islamic terrorism, but also maligned by the actions of jihadists. Doing the second without the first would be grossly unfair to the innumerable victims of “Allahu Akbar”-yelling militants who chop heads off, take sex slaves and accurately quote Qur’anic verses supporting their behaviour. The only rational position between Islamic apologists and anti-Muslim bigotry is to espouse secular and liberal values. That allows the criticism of bad ideas and the right to believe in bad ideas – both rights must be protected for meaningful dialogue to take place. This approach isn’t contradictory. It’s a manifestation of the famous words of Voltaire: “I disapprove of what
you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” Rizvi is not naïve – he knows he will continue to be criticized from all sides. Fellow Muslims who disagree with him will dismiss him because “He is not a true Muslim,” just as moderate Muslims dismiss Islamic State murderers, IS murderers dismiss moderate Muslims, Sunni dismiss Shia and so on. Our timid federal government will choke on mild criticism of Islamic intolerance. Well-meaning liberals will want Rizvi silenced. But, at some point, we will have to listen to people like Rizvi if we truly want to deal with the very real menace of radical Islam. Brian Giesbrecht is a retired judge and a senior fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, a Winnipeg-based think-tank. www.troymedia.com
News-Optimist.ca Last week’s News-Optimist online poll: What do you think of Omar Khadr receiving $10.5 million from the federal government? • It’s insulting to all regular armed service personnel. 51% • An apology would have been enough. 8% • He may have been tortured into pleading guilty, so he deserves it. 7% • Guantanamo Bay was a big mistake, leading to this fiasco. 5% • It doesn’t go far in paying his $134 million judgment to Sgt. Speer’s widow. 2% • It’s not about Khadr, it’s about Canada screwing up. 27%
This week’s News-Optimist online poll:
Did you attend the Country Thunder music festival in Craven? • No. I never go. • I have attended other years, but it was too hot this year. • Absolutely. I never miss it. • Yes, the rebranding to Country Thunder is getting us better acts. • I was the one dancing naked!
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Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 5
Guy Caron brings NDP bid to Battlefords By John Cairns Staff Reporter
On Wednesday, it was Guy Caron’s turn to make his pitch to New Democrat supporters in North Battleford. Caron was in the city for a meet-and-greet with party members as part of his campaign for the leadership of the federal NDP. The location was the same venue on 96th Street where candidate Niki Ashton held her campaign event a few days before. That has meant the Battlefords has been a focus of attention for the national NDP leadership campaigns this week. In speaking to the News-Optimist, Caron made clear he thought it was important to go to North Battleford to hear from those who lived outside the major population centres. “I want to meet members, I want to meet sympathizers, I want to meet people who want a voice in the leadership race of the NDP,” said Caron. “I’m from Rimouski, and I understand the importance of candidates and politics being conducted elsewhere than the larger cities.” This past week was an active one for Caron and other leadership hopefuls in Saskatchewan. Earlier in the week, Caron was campaigning in Prince Albert, and on Tuesday joined the other candidates on the debate stage in Saskatoon at TCU Place. That night, there was plenty of acknowledgment from candidates about the province’s role in the formation of the party, with references to Tommy Douglas and the Regina Manifesto. “They know their history, that’s for sure,” Caron said of NDP members in Saskatchewan. “I always
have a large, very large, amount of respect for prairie populism, which has given birth to the NDP.” Caron, MP for Rimouski-Neigette-TémiscouataLes Basques since 2011, was one of the MPs elected during the “orange wave” in Quebec under former leader Jack Layton. In 2015, he was re-elected in what was an otherwise disappointing election for the NDP against Justin Trudeau and the Liberals. The NDP saw a large number of seats turn over to the Liberals in that vote. While Caron believes the NDP platform did have progressive policies, he believes it opened the door for the Liberals to win votes away from them. “We had elements that made it possible for the Liberals to be perceived to be on our left,” said Caron. “Yes, they were perceived to be on our left but they raised expectations. They created those expectations, they raised the bar, and they are not meeting those expectations.” He pointed to promises on Bill C-51, electoral reform, and commitments to indigenous people and veterans that were not met. Caron believes the NDP now has an opportunity to win those votes back. However, he also believes dissatisfaction with the Liberals is not showing up yet because it is still too close to the last election and people are still comparing the Trudeau government to that of Stephen Harper. The closer to the next election, “the more people will start having to think about the record the Liberals are leaving behind,” said Caron. As for his own leadership campaign, he has been pushing forward some major policy proposals – ones he hopes will get noticed during the race.
NDP leadership hopeful Guy Caron took his campaign to North Battleford Wednesday where he met with party supporters. He is one of four people in the race for the federal NDP leadership, which will be decided in October. Photo by John Cairns
The policy that has perhaps gotten the most attention so far has been his proposal for a basic income to address poverty in the country. Caron challenges those who say those who are in poverty are somehow to blame for the situation, pointing to statistics that 70 per cent of those in poverty already hold jobs. “There is a covenant that exists in Canada that if you work, you’re supposed to be able to provide for yourself and your family, and that’s no longer true. So we need to take that into account and to change maybe our way of thinking towards this.” His proposal is to use the tax system, the way it’s used for the child benefit or guaranteed income supplement, to top up incomes to reach the low-income level. “By reaching this we are ensuring people won’t worry about their basic
needs: shelter, food and clothing.” Then, Caron says, people can start to think about improving their skills, or perhaps go back to school. He points to other societal benefits, such as reductions in crime rates. His plan attracted attention at the Saskatoon debate from Jagmeet Singh, member for Bramalea-Gore-Malton in the Ontario legislature. Singh has put forward his own proposal of redistribution to address poverty in his leadership campaign, and he took aim at Caron’s ideas during the Tuesday debate. “Both you and I know that your basic income proposal is income-tested,” said Singh, who added “you seem a little inconsistent on your position. I strongly believe in universal public social programs, I also believe in fighting poverty with redistribution.”
“I think you’re confusing two things here,” Caron responded. On old age security, “you’re taking a program that’s nearuniversal and you want to make it means-tested. I’m proposing to create a new program … it’s not income-tested, as you are saying, it is income-based to ensure that the objective to eliminate poverty is addressed through the tax system.” In speaking to the News-Optimist, Caron made clear once more that he isn’t a fan of meanstesting old age security. “We’ve always been fighting for universality of this program.” Caron is the only candidate in the race supporting a basic income approach, he said. He acknowledges there has been a debate “within the NDP and progressive circles” about it. He explained some progressives believe it’s a
United Way golf tournament attracts 110 Submitted The Battlefords United Way held their 20th annual Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, July 10, at Jackfish Lodge. There were 110 golfers enjoying the sunshine, raising a great deal of money and contributing to a number of worthy causes. Golfers enjoyed a putting contest with the ladies from BID, and a chipping event with the Chamber
Market app. There was a wonderful steak dinner and many prizes to be won. Former St. Louis Blue DJ King joined in the fun, teaming up with MLA Herb Cox and few others. DJ also provided a signed jersey as well as a Montreal Canadien’s jersey autographed by his brother Dwight King. There was also a George Reed autographed jersey up for grabs thanks to SaskPower. Thanks to the many
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right wing idea and think conservatives and liberals will use a basic income to “slash the state, to reduce the bureaucracy,” so instead of the state providing social programs, people will use the money they receive to purchase those instead. “That’s the Conservative case. That is not what I’m proposing; I’m proposing to eliminate poverty,” Caron said. Caron has also pitched some other ideas such as modernizing the tax system, which he says has gotten too complex, as well as implementing tax policies to reduce income inequality, cracking down on tax havens, and limiting the cap on RRSP contributions to $20,000 a year which he says would save the government $1 billion. Another key plank for him is electoral reform. Caron has advocated a mixed proportional-representation system with regional lists, plus a referendum after two federal elections on whether voters want to keep the system. “It doesn’t make sense that 39 per cent of the people can give a party 100 per cent of the power,” Caron says about the first-pastthe-post system. Caron admits that his main challenge early on in the race has been to get himself known in a field full of other well-established candidates. To do that, he said, he’s gone across the country meeting people and sought to get noticed in the debates, and by putting forward policies. Now, he believes he is being seen as a contender and someone who can win. He believes he has a lot of support and also a lot of second-choice votes, “which is in this type of race a real advantage,” he says. After this week Caron plans to keep on with his campaign efforts; he also plans to roll out some more policy ideas later this summer including his platform for indigenous people. There are five more leadership debates planned across the country, and party members begin voting for a new leader this fall with the ballots being counted in October.
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PAGE 6 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Kings Royal a must-see event for racing fans
A view from the grandstands at the Eldora Speedway, which saw over 20,000 fans attend Saturday’s running of the Kings Royal. Photos by Lucas Punkari
I assume when most people get time off at this time of the year, they plan their trips to be around the Battlefords or elsewhere around Saskatchewan and other Western provinces. As you can probably guess, my plans aren’t like most people. Nearly two weeks ago, I drove out from North Battleford at four in the morning and set out on an 18hour drive back to my old stomping grounds of Fort Frances, Ont., which is where I got my start in sports reporting from 2011 to 2013. After a great couple of days on my first trip to the Fort in nearly four years, I spent 16 more hours in a car driving around Lake Superior to return home to Sault Ste. Marie. I spent a couple of days there before heading down south with my parents and my younger brother to Greenville, Ohio, where we based camp for four days as we had the chance to attend the Kings Royal World of Outlaws sprint car event at the Eldora Speedway in nearby New Weston. Now I’m sure most of you reading this have no idea what I was talking about in that last sentence, so let me explain a little bit. I’m sure I mentioned this in my first column in the News Optimist about a year ago now, but I’ve been a diehard auto racing fan since I was two years old, though my parents claim I watched the Daytona 500 back in 1990 a couple of weeks before my second birthday. Over the last few years though, I’ve grown increasingly frustrated with the direction that NASCAR has been going with a horrific format to determine their champion and numerous other problems the sanctioning body has yet to tackle. In fact, if it wasn’t for the rapid rise this season of the uber-talented young star Kyle Larson, I probably would have tuned
By Lucas Punkari out for good. As my interest there waned, my passion for sprint car racing has picked up rapidly. For those that haven’t seen a sprint car, they are lightweight open wheel racecars that weigh around 1,400 pounds and generate over 900 horsepower when the drivers put their foot on the gas. With giant wings on top of the car to generate downforce, it’s not uncommon for laps around 130 miles per hour as they fly around dirt tracks. The World of Outlaws is the biggest series for sprint cars and sees the best drivers in the country racing on a regular basis. The schedule is daunting as they race over 90 nights a year and criss-cross the United States from February to November. There are no easy nights and every feature race is an all-out war that ranges anywhere from 25 to 50 laps, but if you can win a feature event you’ve made it as a driver. One of those big races that everyone wants to have on their resume is the Kings Royal. It’s a 40-lap event that concludes three days of racing and sees $50,000 go to the winner.
Lucas meets NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver and occasional sprint car racer Christopher Bell, who stole the show at Eldora with a pair of spectacular drives during the weekend.
The track that they compete on at Eldora is one of the most intimidating on the circuit, as well, as it’s a halfmile track with 24 degrees of banking around the turns and little room for error. From a fan’s perspective, being around the facilities is staggering as Eldora really has something for everyone. The track, which is owned by former NASCAR champion Tony Stewart, has super cheap concession stand prices, room for over 20,000 fans and features a number of events throughout the weekend for fans to meet their favourite drivers. I should note that the track is located pretty much in the middle of nowhere. New Weston, to which the track is closest, has just 136 people living in it and the community of Rossburg, just south of the track, is home to 200 people. It’s pretty amazing to see a place so small increase in size so dramatically. The first night of racing took place Thursday with the Jokers Wild event, which ended up becoming a marathon event. A fairly heavy rain Continued on Page 8
Fan favourite Jac Haudenschild spins out during his qualifying attempt at the Kings Royal Saturday night at the Eldora Speedway.
Lucas meets Rico Abreu, a highly talented driver from California.
Donny Schatz celebrates after winning his fourth Kings Royal title and becoming the first driver to win in back to back years.
Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 7
Cultural Rendezvous
The 2017 Voyageurs Rendezvous Canoe Race finished with a bang last Tuesday as First Nations performers danced to an audience at the Don Ross Centre. The evening began with a prayer, followed by supper and a performance. The voyageurs are continuing east along the North Saskatchewan River. Arrival in The Pas will mark a 1,500 km trip. Photos by Josh Greschner
Year in review: Boys and Girls Club visits increasing Submitted On Wednesday, June 21, the Battlefords Boys and Girls Club held their annual general meeting where the 2016 year was discussed and celebrated. According to Executive Director, Nicole Combres, 2016 saw memberships at their all-time high and it appeared as though the Battlefords Boys and Girls
Club, being Canada’s best kept secret, was no longer a secret. “With our child/youth visits nearly doubling (and tripling in some months), the club was a very busy “place to be!” Thankfully, with great staff and a supportive community, we successfully made it through the year. What a better year than this year to be cele-
brating a huge milestone – our 40th year of operation in the Battlefords. Ensuring the club was a safe, welcoming place for our child and youth members was a priority for us during 2016. We brightened up the club with our member’s artwork and expanded our toy, game and programming selection. This was vital as we had to decrease
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the amount of out-trips we went on given the number of children and youth we had attending daily. With high quality staff, we were able to tackle the many challenges arising from such high numbers of children and youth in attendance. Growth in numbers of children and youth accessing our services resulted in unexpected financial
hardship. Although we saw the numbers of children and youth attending our programs increase, our attendance at our feefor-service programs declined. With that, we were faced with tough decisions resulting in the elimination of PD Day Camps and the dissolution of our after-school partnership at Connaught Community School upon the comple-
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tion of the 2015-2016 School Year. Although this was a valued service (resulting in an additional 2,304 after school visits), we needed to secure resources for our free-of-charge drop-in programming and continue offering the community high quality services and programs for those in need. Continued on Page 10
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Locals golf at Swift Current By John Cairns Staff Reporter
The scores are in from the 91st annual Jr. Men’s golf tournament at Chinook Golf Course in Swift Current. After play closed on Wednesday, Kristian Houk of North Battleford
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finished the tournament in a three-way tie for 10th place at plus-11. Houk posted three-day scores of 77, 70, and 80. As well, Colby Friedrich of Battleford finished in a tie for 16th at plus-17. His three day scores were 80, 70 and 83. It was Tayden Wallin
of Humboldt who won the tournament with a minustwo. He finished a shot a head of Roman Timmerman of Saskatoon and Jayden Dudas of Estevan. On the Jr. Ladies side it was Chloe Sies of Melville who ended up in first place with a three day round of plus-23.
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Local high school student ‘lives the life’ on golf tour By Josh Greschner Staff Reporter
Practice makes perfect. Confidence helps, too. Battleford’s Colby Friedrich, is on a golf tour this summer featuring a number of stops across the prairies. Recent tournaments include stops in Red Deer, Estevan and Swift Current, where Friedrich placed second in the Juvenile Boys category, tied for 20th, and second again in the Junior Boys category, respectively. Friedrich lost in Swift Current in a playoff. “I’ve been getting the momentum rolling slowly, and I’m starting to get confident,” Friedrich said. Last year, Friedrich, 15, won tournaments in Red Deer, Saskatoon and Regina, and was named the U15 Junior Order of Merit tour winner. This past week at the Junior Men’s Provin-
cial Golf Championship, which was also in Swift Current, Friedrich placed in a tie for 16th. Friedrich said the Swift Current course was “really hittable,” and games could be determined by “a couple shots or one hole.” He said that on Tuesday, July 11, he shot his lowest golf score ever, a 31 on the front nine. He finished the day shooting a 70, and finished the tournament with a 233. Friedrich said this year he’s played on a number of good courses. “Every course has been in great shape. It’s the second time we’ve been back to Swift Current in the past two weeks, and it never seems to disappoint.” Friedrich said that at the moment he’s happy with how he’s swinging his driver but that his putting has been inconsistent. Friedrich’s coach is in Swift
Current, who Friedrich sees about once a month. Friedrich said he also turns to his dad, Marty, for golf help. “[My dad] helps a ton, he’s basically my coach,” Friedrich said. “If I have problems he fixes them right away. I’d go to him if I need help with anything in my golf game.” Friedrich said he considers his tour’s major tournament to be July 24-25 at Dakota Dunes in Saskatoon. While the golfers he tours with compete against each other on the course, Friedrich said “they’re best of friends off the course.” “I think all of us have come into pretty close relationship among the group of 10 or 15 of us,” Friedrich said. “We’re best of friends off the course, rivals on the course. It’s really awesome meeting all these guys and, I mean, kind of living the
From left to right: Caleb Kinch,Colby Friedrich, Josh Nagy, Jeff Chambers - MJT Sask. Photo submitted
life.” Friedrich plans to see how far golf will take him. “Hopefully I can get a scholarship maybe and see where it goes from there,” Friedrich said. “I have two
more years of high school in front of me and I focus on school first always. Golf comes second.” Summertime allows Friedrich to put golf first. “I’ve been working re-
ally hard on my game. It’s tough to get it better, but I think it’s at a point now where I feel pretty confident going into every tournament with a chance to win.”
Kings Royal a must-see event for racing fans Continued from Page 6 shower came through the speedway about a half hour before practice was to begin, which delayed the action until about 10 p.m. The night of racing didn’t end until 1:30 a.m., but the track was lightning fast and made for a good start to the weekend. Australian Kerry Madsen ended up dominating the race, but he had to get stiches in his right hand after the 30lap feature as he suffered a major cut to his right hand near the end of the race. Friday was a pretty eventful day before the
racing got underway. I got the chance to meet one of my favourite drivers, Rico Abreu, who is just 4’4” tall but doesn’t let that stand in his way as he’s become one of the few racers that drives all out in whatever car he gets to and can win from anywhere in the field. I’ve wanted to see him race in person for a number of years and it was worth the wait. At the same time, my younger brother Brett had the chance to meet his favourite driver, eight-time World of Outlaws champion Donny Schatz. In my
opinion, Schatz is the best racer in the world at the moment. He’s pretty much dominated sprint car racing for the last decade and is nearing the 250-win mark in his career. Schatz had a chance to win Friday’s Knight Before the Kings Royal race, but he ended up being beat by his teammate Christopher Bell in a dandy of a feature event. Bell, who runs a sprint car when he has an off weekend from his regular duties as a competitor in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, was dominant running the high side of the track just inches from the wall and was able to hold off Schatz in a great battle in the final laps that brought the fans to their feet. By the time Saturday’s main event rolled around to determine the Kings Royal champion, the atmosphere was at a fever pitch. The heat races that helped
set the starting lineup were outstanding and there were a number of drivers that had a legit chance to win the event. Then Donny Schatz did his thing. He took the lead about 12 laps into the race and was over half a track ahead of the rest of the field when he took the checkered flag, which made him a four-time winner of the Kings Royal and the first driver in the 34year history of the event to win the race in consecutive years. The real star of the race though was Bell, who turned in one of the most impressive drives I’ve ever seen live. After blowing his motor during a heat race and having to start the feature in 20th spot, Bell was on the ragged edge of control as he flew around the high side of the speedway to eventually take the second spot with a couple of laps to go, all without the
aid of a caution flag that would have brought him closer to the track. It was a performance worthy of a standing ovation, which many fans gave him after the race. All in all, as I type this from my parents’ house back home in Sault Ste.
Marie, this was a memorable weekend that I’ll remember for a long time to come. If you are a racing fan of any kind, you need to get to Eldora for the Kings Royal, as the atmosphere and competition is second to none.
New Horizons golf report By Bernie Meisner New Horizons hit the links Thursday morning, July 13, for their weekly scramble. The day was beautiful, sunny, warm with a light breeze. Only 21 golfers participated. Brian Jordan led his foursome of Katherine Coats, Etta Meisner and Dave Page to a first place finish with a score of 39. Coming second, with a score of 41, was the team of Glenn Hunter, Merv Zulynik, Jim Fraser and Diana Griffiths. Finishing with the consolation was the threesome of Wally Gordey, Ken Schwab and Connie Carignan. Dave Stevens won closest to the pin on number eight. Sorry to say there was no winner for the longest putt on this occasion. Not sure what happened there. New Horizons play their next scramble on Monday, July 17, at 8:30 am.
Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 9
Atcheynum sisters to represent province at Indigenous Games By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter
They have played together only once in a competitive setting. Now sisters Anna and Megan Atcheynum will have a chance to play together on an international stage this week in Toronto as they will compete for the Saskatchewan Under 19 girls volleyball team at the North American Indigenous Games. “The last time we played together was in my senior year of high school and she was in Grade 10,” said Megan, who is studying agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan. “To be playing with her once again at an event like this is pretty awesome. “Our whole family is going to be down there to share in the experience with us,” added Anna, who is heading into her Grade 12 year at North Battleford Comprehensive High School this fall. “Having my sister alongside me is going to be a big help, as I won’t have to deal with the challenges of being in a different environment with no familiar faces around me.” The process to make the pro-
vincial volleyball team was a lengthy one, as three identification groups took place around Saskatchewan during the fall of 2016 before the final roster was set in February. “I was only able to make it to the final camp due to my schedule, so I’m sure I stood out as a result,” Anna joked. “I really focused on my hitting during that weekend, and I guess things went pretty well there.” “I was one of the few lefthanded hitters that tried out, which I think helped me out a bit,” Megan added. “Plus, I’m pretty loud out on the court, so that probably made me fairly noticeable.” According to head coach Cory Gratton, the Atcheynum sisters have several assets that make them a good fit with the rest of the roster. “They are both extremely athletic and hard-working players,” Gratton said. “They are both really positive out on the court as well, which is a huge element to what we want to have on our team. “We have a fast and athletic group here and we’re looking to run a quick offence with a high intensity. A number of girls have experience from competing at the last games in Regina
back in 2013, so having that experience should help us out a lot.” With a number of strong teams from Canada and United States in the competition, the Atcheynum’s know they will have to hit their marks in order to be in the mix for a medal. “Our major focus is going to be on defence,” Megan said. “We need to be strong on that side of the court in order to have a chance, especially with the field that’s going to be there.” “I think the chemistry our team has will help us out a lot,” Anna added. “None of us are shy when we are playing, as we’re always talking and keeping everyone fired up.” The team was practicing in Saskatoon Thursday and Friday before flying to Toronto to take part in Sunday’s opening ceremonies. Their first round-robin contests will take place Tuesday. Sisters Megan and Anna Atcheynum are representing Saskatchewan at the North American Indigenous Games in Toronto this week. Photo by Lucas Punkari
Norman Arngrimson, Pitcher: Hall of Fame inductee Submitted Norman Arngrimson was born Nov. 29, 1926, and raised on a farm northeast of Mozart, Saskatchewan. His brothers were good baseball players so Norm was introduced to a glove and ball at an early age. Norm, a left-handed pitcher, played with the Elfros Aces Senior team in 1947 or 1948. Norm had a good fastball, a good curveball, now called a slider, and a drop pitch, now called a curveball. Catching for Norm for these years was Walter Reynolds. He said when Norm threw his drop pitch at the belt, he had to be ready to dig the ball out of the dirt because that is how far down it would
Norman Arngrimson
break. Norm’s wife, Irene, states Norm’s left pitching arm was almost twice the size of his right arm. She also said that Norm was lucky to have such a good catcher as Walter Reynolds who seldom let a pitch get past him, even a wild pitch that Norm occasionally threw. She feels the speed with which Norm threw was equal to that of the pro pitchers today.
The team was in a league with Wadena, Kelvington, Wynyard and possibly Fosston. The team did very well with Norman as the team’s star pitcher, as well as playing with the Quill Lake Monarchs in local baseball tournaments. At the first game at a tournament in Lestock, Saskatchewan, in 1949, when the games were supposed to be five-inning games, Norm’s team scored a run in the bottom of the 11th and won 1-0. Norman pitched the entire game! In 1953 and 1954, Norm played with the Foam Lake Falcons as the Elfros team had disbanded due to a shortage of players. A highlight in Norm’s baseball pitching career was a two-day, 16-team tournament in Foam Lake
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in 1954. Norm pitched nine innings, beating Watson 4-1, striking out 15 batters. Preeceville was the next opponent. Foam Lake was leading 5-2. In the ninth inning, Preeceville loaded the bases with no outs. Norm was brought in to pitch and he struck out the next three batters. Next playing Springside, down 5-2, but in the bottom of the seventh, Foam Lake
scored five runs. Norm was then called in to pitch, gave up one run in the eighth inning, but shut them out in the ninth, for a final 8-6 victory. In the final game against the Notre Dame Hounds, Norm pitched the entire game, giving up only two runs in the eighth inning with a final score of Foam Lake 5 and Notre Dame Hounds 2. That tournament saw Norman
Arngrimson pitch a total of 21 innings and giving up only four runs. Also in the 1950s, Norm occasionally pitched for Colonsay in the Saskatoon League. Irene and Walter figured that Norm played baseball for about 15 years, 60 years ago! Quoting Irene, “great memories.” Norman died of a heart attack Dec. 7, 2004.
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NDP leadership hopefuls spar over old age security, carbon pricing Continued from Page 3 “It says something when those two premiers are going in the wrong direction when even the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers and the Canadian Mining Association are in favour of carbon pricing,” said Caron. Singh went even further and attacked Wall’s provincial budget. “What a callous and savage budget that slashed so many services people depend on.” Also an issue was the dismantling of the Canadian Wheat Board, and the issues surrounding rail transportation of grain to market. Candidates pointed to the dismantling of the single-desk as one reason for the delays that transpired earlier this decade. “First and foremost we know that that was a horrible decision, that Harper betrayed farmers by privatizing the Wheat Board,” Singh said. “The majority of farmers wanted to main-
Guy Caron, Jagmeet Singh, Niki Ashton and Charlie Angus, NDP leadership hopefuls at their debate in Saskatoon. Photos by John Cairns
tain that board in public hands.” “The solution, I believe is moving back to a cooperative model,” said Angus, who also decried the end of the Wheat Board. “It removed their marketing power vis-à-vis the transporters, the CN and CP,” said Caron of the
Wheat Board dismantling. Caron added that “Liberals and Conservatives are afraid of CN and CP and they will not fight for you.” “I want to begin by giving a shout-out to the many people in this room who fought to keep the single desk,” said Ashton. “It was an honour to
work with you and many in fighting for the Canadian Wheat Board.” She also called the loss of the Wheat Board single-desk “part of Harper’s agenda to make our country more and more unequal,” taking control out of farmer’s hands and putting in the hands of big
corporations. “He’s made the corporate sector much wealthier at the expense of everybody else.” There was a wide range of other issues discussed at the Saskatoon event at TCU Place, the fifth one in the series of federal NDP leadership debates in the
run-up to the October vote. The debate was mainly in English but also included some segments in French which allowed candidates to show their French-language skills. Video from the debate has been posted on the federal NDP’s website and at CPAC.
Year in review: Boys and Girls Club visits increasing Continued from Page 6 With more and more families requiring our assistance in meeting the basic needs of their children, we had to adjust our services to meet those demands. Adjusting our services meant the addition of one new program this year – Take it EASY. This selfesteem and empowerment group was held in March for our young girls and addressed the mental health concerns arising in our community. With 13 very active participants attend-
ing weekly sessions, we saw great success! Our already successful programs (Indoor Hockey League, Indoor Soccer Program and Hip-Hop Dance Program) continued to reduce barriers to getting children active in our community. With our revenue declining due to reduced attendance at our fee-forservice programs and increased grants being denied, we had to revise our financial plan which resulted in the launch of our $40 for 40 campaign. This
monthly giving campaign not only promoted our 40th year of providing services to our community, but also began creating financial stability and predictability for our organization. We look forward to continuing to expand this campaign in 2017. In addition to our $40 for 40 campaign, we continued to have two very successful fundraising events (Annual Gala and Silent Auction as well as Capital One Race for Kids) and added one new one this
year, a playhouse raffle. It is because of our fundraising efforts we are able to continue to combat our lack of core, guaranteed government funding. Raising community awareness and increasing our visibility in the community became a priority as we began looking for new partnerships, sponsors and donors to address our declining revenue. As a result of being present in our community more frequently, we saw increases in our donations, sponsorships and partnerships. For instance, we were the chosen recipient of the Community Air Time Award given by our local radio stations in partnership with Norsask Farm Equipment. This is one example of many demonstrating the benefit to having a stronger community pro-
file. As we move into 2017, this will continue to be a focus of Executive Director Combres’ work. Celebrating 40 years was a focus this year and led us to theme our WindUp Party in June as a club birthday party as well as host an additional 40th birthday party event at the club in October. Here, we invited and thanked past board members, club alumni, donors, supporters, volunteers and community members for their continued support. Other special events included our annual Thanksgiving supper and Christmas party where we invite the families of our members to celebrate these special holidays with us here at the club. “As I reflect back on 2016,” says Combres. “I am reminded of how blessed I am to be a part of such an
amazing organization here in the Battlefords. While we truly do make a difference in the lives of the children and youth of our community, we couldn’t do this without our hardworking, compassionate and dedicated staff and board of directors. From my executive assistant, director of programs and nutrition coordinator, to my program supervisors and program leaders, I am very fortunate to have individuals dedicating their time to impact some of the most vulnerable in our community – the children and youth. My board of directors continue to volunteer their time with an organization they truly believe in and support, and for that, I’m immensely grateful. Together, we are shaping the future of our community and Great Futures Start Here!”
RCMP pursue stolen vehicle
... Police dog tracks suspects
Staff At approximately 11:20 p.m. July 10, Battlefords RCMP stopped a white Ford F350 truck in North Battleford after it passed through a controlled intersection without stopping. The vehicle initially stopped but then quickly reversed, colliding with the front end of the police truck. The driver of the vehicle then left the scene at a high rate of speed and a pursuit was initiated. The vehicle was followed out to a rural area west of town while further
efforts were made to have the driver stop. Co-ordinated efforts to deploy tire deflation devices outside of the city limits were unsuccessful. The pursuit ended in a rural location north of Highway 40 after the vehicle became stuck in a steep ditch. Four persons fled the vehicle on foot and the RCMP Police Dog Section was brought in and successfully tracked two of the suspects who were apprehended shortly thereafter. The two male youths are facing a number of charges. The other two male youths have been identi-
fied, but have not yet been located. Warrants for their arrest have been sought. It was later determined that the vehicle had been stolen earlier in the day from a location north of North Battleford. The keys had been left in the vehicle. Police are reminding property owners again to secure vehicles when they are left unattended. This investigation is ongoing. As with all incidents that might involve a risk to the public, the pursuit was monitored and a continuing risk assessment applied as the situation developed.
Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 11
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GILLIES: A memorial service for Grace Gillies will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church 1302-99 Street North Battleford on July 29 at 2pm. __________________________________________________________
OBITUARIES GRAY: In Loving Memory of Phyllis Viola Gray, born February 13, 1926 at North Battleford, SK., passed away June 21, 2017 in Battleford, SK. Phyllis will be remembered by her nephews, nieces and their families: Frank (Debby) Dolney, Gordon (Wendy) Dolney & Keith Dolney; Alice (Robert) Odnokon, Sharon Armitstead, Marilyne Davis, Karen (Philip) DuPaul, Rhonda (Doug) Gale & Maureen Gray; niece-inlaw, Patricia Wouters and many great-nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, William & Fanny Gray; brothers: Bill, John & James; sisters: Alice (Kitty) Humphreys and Grace Dolney; nephew, Robert Humphreys; great-niece, Julie Armitstead; brothers-in-law: Bruce Humphreys and Bruce Dolney; nephews-in-law: Gary Davis and George Armitstead. Phyllis Viola Gray Phyllis was born February 13th, 1926 at North Battleford, the youngest in a family of six to parents William and Fanny Gray. She attended Elementary School at Connaught and High School and Commercial Course at North Battleford Collegiate Institute. At the age of 16, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour and was baptized in First Baptist Church. Her faith was very important to her. Her first summer jobs were with the Battlefords Agricultural Society and Woolworths. In December 1945, she commenced employment with the City of North Battleford at City Hall, in the Billing and Treasury Department, which became a 31 year working career. She then worked for an Accounting Firm for 4 years. In her retirement years, Phyllis did volunteer work for her church, Meals on Wheels and driving seniors for shopping and appointments. She enjoyed reading, word puzzles, good music and gospel programs. She loved nature, working in her garden and yard, feeding the birds, time spent at the lake and the beautiful sunsets, the first canola field in bloom, and the changing colours in the fall. Phyllis enjoyed travelling many times to Vancouver to visit family and friends. She also visited Disneyland, Hawaii, Great Britain, Black Hills of South Dakota, Arizona, Montana, Northern Alberta, and many good drives in our beautiful Saskatchewan. She always appreciated the fellowship of family and friends and will be remembered by her nieces and nephews and their families. Funeral Service was held on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from ‘The Garden Chapel’ – Battlefords Funeral Service with Minister Pastor Dan Glass. Family Shared Memories were given by Judy OdnokonBishoff & Rhonda Gale. Scripture Reading: Psalm 23 – Karen DuPaul; John 14: 1 - 6 and John 3:16 – Wendy Dolney; Psalm 121 – Shana Dynna. Music Ministry: Mrs. M. Junice Headley – Pianist; Robert MacKay – Soloist - “What A Day That Will Be”; Hymn Selections: Blessed Assurance, In The Garden & Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Pallbearers were Gordon Dolney, Keith Dolney, Mervin Norbury, Earl Armitstead, Kent Davis & Sheldon Humphreys. Honourary Pallbearers were Frank Dolney, Bob Odnokon, Albert Armitstead, Doug Gale & Leigh Adams. Interment was at City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Memorial Donations are requested to Battlefords Trade and Education Centre, 801-105th St., North Battleford, SK S9A 1R3. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. __________________________________________________
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OBITUARIES IRIS DONNA WINONA ANDERSON: April 13, 1936 – May 24, 2017. Ever kind, Ever True, Mom is lovingly remembered and will be forever missed. Mom passed away peacefully with her family by her side at North Battleford Union Hospital. Mom cherished her family and friends. Left to honour her love and her life is her family, daughter Sheila Pidwerbesky, Dallon (Elisa) Savannah, Delilah, Aleksander, Adair (Jaclyn) Owen and son Tanner Pidwerbesky, daughter Yvonne Anderson (Brad) Kellen, daughter Wendy Anderson, Ashton, Holly. Son Roy Anderson (Predeceased) Gray and Brittany. Mom is also survived by her sister Doris, brother Harold (Merle) numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and special friends. Mom was predeceased by her husband James, son Roy, parents Edward and Maria Brunsch, sisters Gayleen and Devona and brother Ivan. In Mom’s own words this is her story: I was born and raised on a farm north of Radisson and married a farmer. I had dreams of being a nurse or a ballet dancer and I also grew up being a tomboy. Housework was a no-no for me. I loved the outdoors and still do. All the above came into play as life went on. Being a tomboy came into play when my husband of 16 years passed leaving me with 4 children – 1 son (oldest) and 3 daughters. I worked along side of him and learned how to operate machinery and continue to farm for 7 years. When my son married I moved to North Battleford with my youngest daughter. Wanting to be a nurse came into play when I got a job at the Regional Care Center. Not having any nurse training, I worked in the dining room. So I was able to do a little for the sick and elderly. But this only lasted for 5 short years as I hurt my back and had to quit. This was as close as I got to being a nurse! But it gave me the knowledge, love and patience it takes to care for loved ones. I was able to take care of my husband, my son, my Mom and Dad and my 2 sisters Gayleen and Devona. I drove RVs for 2 years from 1988 to 1990, transporting them from Indiana to Sarnia, BC, Calgary and Edmonton. I enjoyed this adventure as I got to see a lot of beautiful country. But once again this was short lived due to an accident at Thunder Bay. As for wanting to be a ballet dancer….that for sure was only a dream…but I do love dancing! I gave dancing lessons to some who didn’t have a clue of how to do any step except keep time to the music. Must say….they are good dancers now! Through the love of dancing, I’ve met many wonderful amazing people and all my special friends. For other hobbies I do crafts, knit, crochet, embroidery, read, gardening, puzzling and play the accordion. My girls are doing well with families of their own. God willing I plan to do some travelling and spending time with family and friends... Our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation goes out to Bart and his staff for their devoted and compassionate care given to our Mom all these years. Thank you to the CCAs and the nursing staff who cared for our Mom during her hospital stay. And a heartfelt thank you to Trevor and staff at Eternal Memories for their gentle guidance and being beacons of light in the days following Mom’s passing. A celebration of Mom’s life will be held on Sunday July 23, 2017 at Denholm Hall from 2:00 6:00pm. Love, Mom’s Girls, Wendy Zooky Sheila ___________________________________________________
Ph.: 306-445-7265 / 306-445-7266
OBITUARIES MCGRATH: Gerald Arthur McGrath October 4, 1941 – June 30, 2017. “Jerry” passed away peacefully at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, SK with his family by his bedside. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 52 years, Clem; daughter Shelley Reinhart; granddaughters, Ariana and Shaelyn Reinhart; daughter-inlaw Lana McGrath; grandsons Colby and Austin McGrath; sister Von (Dick) Hough, their daughters Cheryl Hough-Isles and Karen Nishiyama and their families, as well as numerous in-laws and their families. Jerry was predeceased by his mother Florence McGrath (1968), father John McGrath (1994), son Kim McGrath (2016), father-in-law Joseph Bru (1998), mother-in-law Mabel Bru (2013), niece-in-law Lisa Bru (2012), and sister-in-law Madeleine Colbow (2012). Jerry married Clem Bru July 10, 1965. They lived on their acreage north of North Battleford for 50 years where their family was raised. He worked at several jobs with the last one being Walmart for 17 years before retiring May 2011. Jerry called Bingo for the Knights of Columbus for approximately 30 years at the K.C. Hall. Jerry and Clem enjoyed numerous bus trips across Canada and the United States. Jerry was a proud grandpa who spent many hours watching his grandchildren participate in various activities. He also loved golfing, camping, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. Card of Thanks Jerry’s family would like to thank Dr. Tootoosis of North Battleford and the Medical staff at St. Paul’s and Royal University Hospitals in Saskatoon for the kindness and compassion shown to Jerry during his stay. Thank you to all the family and friends for your help and support during this difficult time. The food, phone calls, visits, flowers, cards, masses and memorial donations were greatly appreciated. A special thanks to Father Cuong Luong for officiating and Noreen German for the eulogy. We will always remember the beautiful music of Lisa Hornung, Jaki Esquirol and Robert Hall. Thank you to the CWL for the wonderful lunch following the funeral and Eternal Memories for taking care of the arrangements and showing us so much kindness and compassion. -Clem, Shelley (Ariana & Shaelyn), Lana (Colby & Austin)
FUNERAL SERVICES
Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium 2741 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK 306-445-7570
Trevor Watts - Director/Owner
The Battlefords only Locally Owned Funeral Provider
“The only crematorium in the Battlefords area” Traditional Casket Burial and Cremation Services Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion Counsellor for Bronze and Granite Memorials Free pre-planning guides available, assistance with pre-planning services
www. eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca
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PAGE 12 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
OBITUARIES PETERSON: Joyce was called home to her Heavenly Father on June 28, 2017. She was born to Joseph and Sylvia Sadlowski on September 27, 1942 on the homestead in the Sich district, Krydor SK. Joyce enjoyed the simple things in life, growing a weed free garden, the beauty of nature, early morning walks, picking berries and mushrooms, fishing, reading the newspaper and community history books. She never forgot a birthday or an anniversary and mailed out cards by the bundle. She wanted everyone to know she remembered them and they were important to her. She was a woman of principle, she believed -put God first and everything else will fall into place -get on with it, things don’t always turn out the way you want them to -God made you who you are, be yourself -true beauty is found in the heart -focus on what you have not what you don’t, be content Joyce was also a woman of strong faith. That faith carried her through the darkest days of health and personal challenges. She believed in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love and His saving grace. She knew of the beauty and peace that awaited her when this life is over. She is survived by her daughter Sylvia of North Battleford, SK; sister Ann (Frank) Pool and brother Joe (Florence) Sadlowski; nieces and nephews and their families. Predeceased by her parents Joseph and Sylvia Sadlowski; brother Michael (in infancy). Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving was held on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 at 11:00 am from “The Garden Chapel” Battlefords Funeral Service, North Battleford, SK., with Pastor Jan Cooke officiating. Interment was at City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Memorial donations are requested to Battlefords Residential Services Box 751, North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y9. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________
AUCTIONS
OWN A PIECE OF HISTORY! Bid on Items From HISTORIC MOSAIC STADIUM
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NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS!
License Number 319916
PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT. Great References Available a total of 590 QUARTER SECTIONS SOLD across saskatchewan RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE NEW 2017 MANUFACTURED HOMES starting under $90,000 delivered! A1 Homes Regina/Saskatoon - www.A1-Homes.ca Canada’s largest in-stock home selection, quick delivery, custom factory orders! Text/call 306-7002825.
FOR SALE - MISC 2 side by side burial plots located in woodlawn memorial cemetery east of north battleford. Much cheaper than buying through city hall. Take comfort, in knowing that your final resting place is taken care of today. These plots are located in the central west side and are beside my grand-parents, so it is somewhat personal for me also. call/text (306)398-7765. email, cds1965@hotmail.ca. thank you. 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. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.
Yellowhead Modular Home Sales Canadian built by MODULINE Elite Price Event on NOW!
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Call Mel 306-490-7414 Apartments for Rent Shared laundry Call after 7:00pm 306-445-3644
Complete Home Reno’s, Bathrooms, Kitchen Basements, Drywall Call 306-480-8199 306-481-2836
Fences, Decks, Sheds, Home Reno’s, Painting, Roofing, Shingles. 306-480-8199 306-481-2836 Rob’s Lawn and Yard Care. Grass cutting, roto tilling, power raking, general yard maintenance. Phone 306-445-2736 or 306-441-5677.
Tree Removal, Lawn & Yard Grooming Landscape. Do homes and property maintenance. Call 306-480-8199 or 306-481-2836.
FEED & SEED BOARDWALK’S FALL 2017 SASKATOON STUDENT PACKAGE IS HERE! Move in now through Sept. 1st to receive up to 3 MONTHS FREE RENT and a $500 PREPAID GIFT CARD, or a $500 RENTAL CREDIT on your account. **Some conditions apply.**
Please call 306.700.3551 with Inquiries. DUPLEXES FOR RENT Duplex for Rent - 10919 Scott Drive Side A, 1100 Sq.Ft, Recently renovated, 1 and a half bath, 3 bedroom, c/w fridge and stove. Best suited for non smoking, working couple. No pets, must have references, $950 per month. Call 306-441-2758
HOUSES FOR RENT Available for Rent, 2 bedroom, W/D/F/S and dishwasher, utilities not included, references required. Call or text 306-480-1347 Serious inquiries only. Available August 1st. House sharing situation for employed or student female. Furnished. Non-smoking and fragrance free. Utilities and WiFi included. $600/month. 306-445-1451
SUITES FOR RENT Suite For Rent 1 Bedroom, Shared Bath, Air Conditioned $400 a month Call 306-499-0329
Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM
Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @
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HEATED CANOLA WANTED!! - GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!! - BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!! HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252 AUTO MISCELLANEOUS Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks. Lots of trucks... Dodge... GMC... Ford... Imports... 1/2 ton to 3 tons... We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260. Lloydminster.
HORSES & TACK Will buy all classes of horses. 306329-4382.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
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STEEL BUILDINGS/GRANARIES STEEL BUILDING SALE ...’PRICED TO SELL!’20X21$6,296 Front & Back Walls Included. 25X25 $6,097 No Ends Included.32X35 $9,998 One End Wall lncluded. CheckOut www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036
MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your workat-home career today! Agricultural Sales Person required. Must be Motivated with computer knowledge. Training available. Ross Equipment, Spirit River. Versatile Dealer. New Facility. Fax 780-864-4324 Call 1780-864-3735 Email alross@rossequip.ca
81 suite retirement residence is looking for a
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FOR SALE - MISC Ranger boats - highest quality, strongest performing fiberglass fishing boats. Ranger aluminum and Ranger pontoons also available at Saskatchewan’s exclusive dealer! Pally’s Saskatoon (306) 244-4469.
FARMLAND WANTED
Items Selling By Way Of 6 UNRESERVED ONLINE AUCTIONS! Online Bidding: July 25th to July 28th Sales To Include: Signage; Locker Rooms; Merchandise Store Building; Offices; Stadium Benches; Equipment From Green & White Lounge; Turf; Club Seating; Scoreboards; Jumbo Tron; Light Towers; Field Goal Posts; Chain Link Fencing; Press Box Tower; Trees; Paving Stones; Entire East Side Stadium with Contents; Roll Up Garage Doors & Much More! View at: www.McDougallBay.com 1-800-263-4193 Saskatoon (306) 652-4334
ROOMS
MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE
Luxury Footcare Professional Nursing Footcare #1 - 9800 Territorial Drive (Co-op Mall) North Battleford, SK S9A 3W6 Contact Lori to book your appointment
306-342-7229
Farmer Brown’s Honey Prince, SK FULL-TIME SEASONAL APIARY WORKERS required for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.(May through October) 2018 requirements: Apiary Worker (2) - Min. 1 year of beekeeping experience. Apiary Technician. - 2 plus years’ commercial beekeeping experience. (immediate – 2017) These jobs are physically demanding, and sometimes repetitive. Applicants must be in good physical condition, willing to work as a team, and able to work around bees. Working longer days and weekends may be required. No bee allergies. Preference for English speakers with driver’s license valid in Canada. All wages are negotiable, based on experience. 40-60 hours a week, as required. On-site accommodations available. Cameron Brown Farmer Brown’s Honey, Box 173, North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y1, 306-445-3332, Email: farmerbrownshoney@gmail.com
LIVE-IN CARETAKER to plan, organize and carry out maintenance and upkeep of building and grounds. Responsibilities include maintaining boilers and equipment, minor repairs and maintenance along with some janitorial duties. Good communication skills and ability to work with seniors are required. Valid driver’s license and current criminal record check are required. Resumes can be dropped off at The Palisades office 514 23rd street E or emailed to jaycepo@ thepalisades.ca
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
CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS
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Let Us Help You Keep Your Business Rolling! PLACE YOUR AD ON THIS PAGE
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Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 13
COMING EVENTS
Leko’s Conservation Corner
Invasive species awareness Visit our website
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.
AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS
If someone’s drinking troubles you attending Al-Anon Family Group provides understanding and support. Meetings Monday at 7:00 p.m. and Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, corner of 15th Ave. & 108th Street. Contacts 306-937-7765, 306-937-7289 or 306-441-9324.
Wednesdays, July 19 - August 30
Pajama Tales - Join us for drop in story time for children & their families at the North Battleford Library from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Wear your pajamas and bring your favourite cuddly toy. Ages 2-5.
Fridays, July 21 & 28
Tales and More - come and enjoy 45 minutes of stories, rhymes and finger plays at the North Battleford Library. For ages 3 to 5 years. Fridays: 10:45-11:30 a.m.
Wednesdays - July 19 - August 16
Borden Library Kids summer program from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Jill Lundquist co-ordinator.
Thursday, July 20 & 27
Makerspace Play Date - Think & play with STEM and STEAM activities; build robots, create video games, explore circuits and more at the North Battleford Library! Alternating Thursdays, 4-5 pm Ages 5-12.
Thursday, July 20 - August 24
Sharing Grief’s Journey - A support group for those struggling with the loss of a loved one. Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m. for 8 weeks. For more information call Sue at 306-445-6658 or Denise at 306-441-3338.
Again this year there is another push to monitor aquatic invasive species and prevent their introduction into Saskatchewan waters. During the summer, you will see conservation officers, border services and fisheries staff, conducting inspections and educating the public on this threat. Here in Saskatchewan, we always focus on zebra mussels, which is a good thing. But there are a number of other invasive species that are just as much of a threat to our environment and fisheries. By definition an invasive species is any species of animal, fungus or plant that is not native to a specific location. It means that the only way these organisms can get here is for it to be introduced. This could be from driving an infested boat into a lake, bringing a plant across the border into Saskatchewan and letting it grow, or even releasing a pet goldfish into the wild. Most invasive species
Conservation Officer Lindsey Leko
are spread though human involvement. Species like koi fish have been found in the warm waters of Boundary Reservoir and there have even been reports of a single piranha being found. Someone gets the fish as a pet and rather than disposing of it the right way, they either take the kids out to release it into a lake or flush it down the toilet. Either way, the chances of the species ending up in our watersheds are very possible. The threat of the North-
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Monday, July 24
Make Believe Mondays - Drop by the North Battleford library story room to have some independent imaginative play! Dress up costumes will be provided. 2-3 pm.
Saturdays, July 29 & August 12
Canadian Creativity - Celebrate Canada by learning about different cultures and art styles & then create your own artwork at the North Battleford Library. 1-2 pm - Ages 6-12.
Tuesday, July 18
Books and Beyond Club - A book club for kids! Read any book based on our monthly theme & then discuss them & do some book related crafts. July’s theme is Canadian Stories & August’s theme is Canadian Authors. 4-5 pm. Ages 8-12.
Thursday, July 20
LEGO Club - Join our Kids’ Lego Club at the North Battleford Library where you can create, build, and use your imagination. Lego provided. 4-5 pm.
Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc. is currently looking for a
Permanent Full-Time Finance Clerk Please view the full job advertisement in the careers section on our community website:
www.brt6hc.ca
ern Snakehead is a very serious threat because these fish are voracious predators that can live out of water for long periods of time and could wipe out our sport fish populations. These fish are prohibited in Saskatchewan and even possession of a snakehead is unlawful. Globally, we have been guilty of releasing non-native species into the wild. This has led to the spread of diseases and has seriously impacted the biodiversity and environmental health of these areas. Examples of this include the rabbit and cane toad introduced to Australia. The rabbit was introduced to provide a food source and the cane toad was brought in to protect crops from the native cane beetle. In the United States, farmers imported Asian Carp to clean their commercial ponds. These ponds flooded and the carp escaped into various water courses. Now in some areas, you have to wear a helmet when riding in a boat for fear of getting an eight pound carp smacking you in the melon. None of these worked very well, and are the cause of all sorts of environmental issues. Look at Florida and the issues they are having with pythons. These snakes were released as pets into the wild, and they managed to find a way to evolve and flourish. Now, you can’t leave your pets outside for fear of them becoming a snack to a snake.
Some people don’t believe that a goldfish or other species native to warmer climates and waters can live in our cold lakes. This is far from the truth. There are lots of species that can survive in a harsher climate. Carp species such as goldfish and Prussian carp are extremely hardy and are surviving over winter in the wild, and not just in aerated ponds. These fish have multiple spawning events and are reproducing very quickly. While it’s hard to equate specific environmental impacts of an introduced species, we know that carp can introduce fish disease and parasites. Fish kept in aquariums are notorious for having disease and parasites not found in the wild. When introduced into the wild, they prey on native fish, compete for food, impact habitat through their spawning events, and can cause disturbance and water turbidity. The goldfish in the picture on Page 14 were taken from a small lake near Okotoks, Alberta. If you look at the quantity and the size, you can understand how these species are a threat to our waters. And, if they are found in Alberta, the same issue is happening in Saskatchewan. In Regina for example, Wascana Lake has been home to the red-eared slider, which is a common species of turtle used as pets. Continued on Page 14
Saturday, July 22
12-40 and Beyond 15th Annual Self Guided Tour. Marcelin, Blaine Lake, Hafford and surrounding area marked by red elevators. For more information go to www.12-40andbeyond.com. Country roads lead to artists, artisans, photographers, orchards, antique store and museum and a blacksmith’s forge demonstration. Bring a lunch and take advantage of the picnic sites available at most venues.
Saturday, July 22 & August 5
National Film Board Screenings - Enjoy uniquely Canadian short films celebrating our interesting history and culture. Escape the heat and cool off at the North Battleford Library movie theatre. 2 pm. All Ages.
Wednesday, July 26
Borden Friendship Club BBQ at Ed & Dianne Rawlyk’s acreage at 5:45 p.m. Meat, buns, dessert supplied.
Friday, July 28
Battlefords Pride Weekend 2017 - The Battlefords is having our first ever LGBTQA+ Pride! This will be an awesome weekend of fun activities and educational workshops that you won’t want to miss out on! A pride parade, Rainbow Dance, kick-off BBQ and other fun activities are planned! All activities will be family friendly and either free or low cost. For more info about Pride, check out www.battlefordsgsa.com. If you are a business/ organization and you would like to have a float in the Pride parade, or if you are interested in volunteering, please let us know!
Monday, July 31
Blood Drive - Donors needed. At the Alex Dillabough Center, Battleford from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by CWL - Catholic Women’s League. Book your appointment at blood.ca. Canadian Blood Services it’s in you to give. 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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WANTED Route NB39
5th Ave., 99th Street 500 - 800 Blk. • 100th Street 500 - 800 Blk. • 101st Street 500 - 800 Blk 143 papers
Route NB40
102nd Street 500 - 700 Blk • 104th Street 500 - 600 Blk. • 105th Street 500 Blk. • 106th Street 500 Blk. 134 papers
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at 306-445-7261 OR Leave Message if after hours or weekends
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PAGE 14 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
E NO.Across 757
34. Hodgepodges 5. Foul-up 35. Fill 6. Burdensome 33.Aretha 36. “Flying Down to ___” 10.Zilch 7. On, as a lamp 37. Salon jobs 8. Appear Franklin hit 11.Snow coaster 39. Person in charge of care 9. “Comprende?” 36.Snare 19.Cut one’sif you do...” of people or animals 10. “_____ 42. “The Matrix” hero 11. Western e.g. molars blue flag,37.Bar 43. Clothing 12. Digestion aid 39.Trait carriers 47. Administer extreme 21.Spiders’ 13. Preserve, in a way 41.Turn over structures unction to 18. Counter quickly 48. Man-made 21. Etc. in Polish 22.Angel’s 51. Solitaire essentials 23. Marienbad, for one 42.Camp headgear 52. Not the entree 24. Sylvester, to Tweety helper, e.g. 54. Past the prime 25. Again 23.Like some 43.Foal 57. To that matter 26. Structure resembling a cheese 62. ___ vera horn 45.Prayer 63. Acting by itself (Ma- 25.Song 27. Roswell crash victim, concluder chine) supposedly 28.Commits 66. “___ It Romantic?” 28. Curtain fabric 49.Brewery perjury (contraction) beverage 29. John ___ Passos 67. One who works dili- 29.Skilled 31. Command 50.Prosecute gently at a trade 32. Brandish 30.Army eatery 51.Wish 68. “Phooey!” 33. Ninth day before the 69. Kind of life ides 70. Dirty look 38. Fastener 71. Small shelters 40. German cathedral city Copyright © 2015, Penny Press 41. Biochemistry abbr. Down find 44. Bauxite, e.g. 28.Take it 1. Alternative to steps 45. “Crikey!” on the ____ 2. Biology 55.Dogs and 54. When you receive lab supply 46. Snake movement money 31.Made holy 3. “I, Claudius” cats role 49. Holdings 55. “Not to mention ...” 4. Egyptian fertility god50. 20-20, e.g. 32.Clan 56.Fountain dess 56. Spiritual, e.g. 53. Cut
1. Doctor Who villainess, with “the” 5. Gauchos’ weapons 10. Slang term for claiming something 14. Long, long time 15. Chilled (2 wds) 16. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g. 17. It has strings attached 19. Brook 20. Boom 21. Atlas enlargement 22. Gland controlling release of urine 26. “No problem” 30. Elevator directions (hyph.)
Puzzle Solution
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34.Turf 35.Stags and bucks 38.Foot parts 39.Polite chap 40.Winding curves 41.Coin side 44.Hobo 46.MGM’s trademark 47.Glass part gest mmal 48.Effortless se 52.Resting d bird 53.Act like f of twenty 54.Detective’s
____ 57.Young adult
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 757
1. Shy 2. Woodsman’s implement 3. Caribbean, e.g. 4. Registers 5. Close, once 6. Adjust to surroundings 7. Unit of heat 8. Happen 9. Dates
The goldfish in the picture were taken from a small lake near Okotoks, Alta. If you look at the quantity and the size, you can understand how these species are a threat to our waters. And, if they are found in Alberta, the same issue is happening in Saskatchewan. Photo CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING submitted
58. Deep 59. Almond 60. Drawn tight 61. Cutlass, e.g.
63. Automobile sticker fig. 64. Addition 65. Cloak-and-dagger org.
Leko’s Conservation Corner - Invasive species awareness DOWN
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DIRECTORY
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1391 - 101st Street North Battleford, Saskatchewan, S9A 2Y8
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Supplies for all your agricultural, industrial & automotive needs.
Continued from Page 13 I want to give readers a heads up on the importance of protecting our environment from these invasive species. Educate yourself on these invasive species by knowing what they are, what they look like and how to keep them out of Saskatchewan. That is why the ministry is asking all recreational and commercial boaters to CLEAN, DRAIN and DRY their watercraft and all related equipment to help ensure it is free of aquatic invasive species before returning home from out of province, coming to visit the province or even moving between waters within the province. This includes non-motorized vessels like canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. Never release any aquarium fish, or other pets, into the wild. Prevention is the most effective way to control their spread. Here are a few questions that have come in over the last few weeks. Q: I am a Saskatchewan resident, but do not have a health card or number. How do I apply for the draw or get a Saskatchewan resident hunting licence? Until you obtain a Saskatchewan Health Card, you cannot get a license on the online HAL system. You may have met the residency requirements by living in Saskatchewan for three
months prior to the application or purchase date, but for hunting and draw purposes you will require the health card number. Q: Do I require a licence to take my five-yearold son fishing? I plan on only helping him cast out. This is always a tough question. In my opinion as an officer I would have no issue with you helping your son or daughter with fishing. I would even be okay with you casting the line out for them and having them reel in the huge fish that will hook them on fishing for life. Where we get into the problem is when the child is no longer interested in fishing, and dad continues on. If this happens the fishing event is over and the rod should be put down with the line in until the butterfly or grasshopper is gone and junior is ready to fish again. Until next time… keep your rod tip up! Editor’s note: Ministry of Environment conservation officer Lindsey Leko has spent more than 25 years as a conservation officer in Saskatchewan. For many years, Officer Leko contributed a column to local papers on a variety of issues related to hunting, fishing, and other resource-related issues. If you have questions, please contact lindsey.leko@gov. sk.ca.
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Tuesday, July 18, 2017 - PAGE 15
A familiar messenger and what it has to say Since the beginning of human history, we have been able to communicate by conversing with one another. To send messages over longer distances, smoke signals and coded drum beats have been used since ancient times. Conveying written information at the hands of a messenger, or by a postal system, was slower, but more detail could be transmitted that way. Then came a big change. Samuel Morse invented the telegraph in 1837, and with that electronic communication began. A cable was laid on the ocean bed across the Atlantic, and in 1858 the first transcontinental telegraph message was sent. Experiments with a “talking telegraph” were undertaken earlier than that. But it was Alexander Graham Bell who produced the first practical telephone in 1876. The Internet many of us use today took a century more, arriving in the 1980’s. But there is another messenger we’ve all heard from many times – a very personal one. It’s pain. Whether we have a toothache or a toe ache it’s sending a signal that something is definitely wrong. And we have more than bodily pain to contend with. Painful trials of life include financial distress, interpersonal
discord, conflicts within nations, and internationally. Whatever kind of pain we have to deal with, it is not pleasant. No one but a neurotic enjoys pain. But there is a positive side. Pain is the messenger that something is wrong. Some treatment is called for, or a change is required. Discomfort prods us to be dissatisfied with the status quo, and seek something better. It may be a doctor we need, or a financial advisor. But we must not miss the spiritual dimension of such problems. Pain can be the messenger that identifies a spiritual need as well. For example, conviction of sin can be very painful. David describes it this way: “When I kept silent [i.e. hid my sin], my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long. For day and night Your hand [Lord] was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer” (Ps. 32:3-4). There is also a longer term message sent by the pains we endure. The Apostle Paul, who faced great persecution for his faith (II Cor. 11:24-18), said he had “a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better” (Phil. 1:23). “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment [by comparison] is working for us a
Robert Cottrill, B.A., B.R.E. http://wordwisehymns.com/ www.Wordwise‐Bible‐Studies.com
far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (II Cor. 4:17). Which brings us to a remarkable woman, and a hymn she wrote. Adelaide Anne Proctor (1825-1864) was a gifted English poet. Miss Proctor was also a
brilliant scholar, a philanthropist who worked tirelessly among the homeless and unemployed, and a feminist many years ahead of her time. One day, novelist Charles Dickens, a family friend, was visit-
When fire rages Are you prepared? It’s a question we often ask or are often asked, but this week it’s a question that screams out at me. As fires rage in parts of our province, the fact that dense bush and trees thrive just two streets away from our front door moves that query from merely theoretical to “Wow, that’s too close for comfort!” Being prepared doesn’t always come to mind but this sure is a wake-up call. Even being prepared for those major events,
though, isn’t a guarantee that we’ll always know what to do when the unexpected comes our way. Take this morning, for instance. Though of little importance when placed beside raging forest fires, catching my toe on a sidewalk crack as I left church today
ing the Proctor’s home. He showed them some wonderful poems he was about to publish in one of his periodicals. They were written by a woman named Mary Berwick. To his utter surprise he learned that this was a pen name for young Adelaide Proctor. Though she died at the age of thirty-eight from tuberculosis, her poetic insights blessed many, including Queen Victoria. In a hymn published a few years before her death, she speaks of pain as God’s benevolent messenger, causing us to anticipate our heavenly home. was something I wasn’t planning or anticipating. I tripped and on my way down I had enough foresight to aim as carefully as I could and it worked; instead of landing on my head, I hit my knee and upper arm with great force but I didn’t crack my skull. Fortunately there were trained medical people who quickly came to my rescue. I’m bruised and sore but doing fine. Less visible scars that life leaves on all of us are different: Be they unexpected illnesses, loss of loved ones, abuse of every kind and loneliness deep enough to drive people to despair, those
“My God, I thank Thee, who hast made / The earth so bright, / So full of splendour and of joy, / Beauty and light; / So many glorious things are here, / Noble and right. / I thank Thee more that all our joy / Is touched with pain, / That shadows fall on brightest hours, / That thorns remain; / So that earth’s bliss may be our guide, / And not our chain. / I thank Thee, Lord, that here our souls / Though amply blessed, / Can never find, although they seek / A perfect rest; / Nor ever shall, until they lean / On Jesus’ breast.” scars become part of who we are. For me and millions more, trusting Christ offers peace and comfort in the most trying of circumstances; having said that, no one – not even Christians – escape life’s pain. The answer? It’s not found in glib responses but in a maturing confidence – knowing that nothing escapes His eye and nothing can take us from His hand. “God is our refuge and strength…therefore we will not fear….” Psalm 46:1, 2 If you would like to receive these articles by email, contact: Linda@ wordsofworth.ca
Worship Together TerriTorial Drive alliance church 1372 102 St 306-445-3009
Pastor: Rev. Allen Huckabay
nd
ANGLICAN PARISH
Notre Dame (RC) Parish Corner of 104th Street & 12th Avenue Rev. Father Cuong Luong MASSES: Saturdays - 7:00 p.m. Sundays - 11:00 a.m.
SUNDAY SERVICES Rev. Trevor Malyon
St. George’s Anglican Church - 9:00 a.m. 191 - 24th Street West, Battleford, SK
OFFICE 306-445-3836
St. Paul’s Anglican Church - 11:00 a.m.
Email: notredame.nb@gmail.com www.notredameparish.ca EVERYONE WELCOME
1302 - 99th Street North Battleford, SK
Living Water Ministry
Community Baptist Church
1202 - 103 Street, North Battleford, SK 306-446-3077 PASTOR: RON BRAUN
Sunday Morning Service 11:00 a.m. Everyone Welcome
Canadian National Baptist Convention
Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church Pastor James Kwon
Spend some quality family time together. Worship at the church of your choice. Our community has a number of churches and a variety of denominations for you & your family.
Corner 16th Ave. & 93rd Street, North Battleford
Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am
Phone 306-445-9096
Saturday Services Bible Study - 10:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.
1702 - 106th Street North Battleford, SK
Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Fax: 306-445-8895 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca
Sr. Pastor Brian Arcand Pastor Anand George Phone: 306-445-3803 Cell: 306-441-9385 Fax: 306-445-4385
Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m.
Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.
1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)
Maidstone/ Paynton United Church of Canada Phone: 306-445-4338
Clergy Person: Rev. Ean Kasper
10:30 a.m. Service
Church & CE Wing:
306-893-2611
For booking the Wing:
306-893-4465
Third Avenue United Church Sunday Worship Service - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 1301 - 102nd Street, Phone 306-445-8171 Rev. Frances Patterson
Everyone Welcome
www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net
PAGE 16 - Tuesday, July 18, 2017
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