News Optimist May 16

News

Talk about trees

Sports

SHNB discussed in the Legislature

North Stars hold banquet

11

2 Unveiled

Horticulture

Blessings for Central Park

5

newsoptimist.john@sasktel.net

Grow your own

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Volume 109 No. 41

In the news this week

North Battleford, Sask.

Staff To fell a tree or not to fell a tree is the question North Battleford’s city councillors and administration are wrestling with currently.

When is parking more

important? See Page 2 for the story.

In other matters to do with parking, council has also addressed fines that should be paid for parking infractions, and you can be sure they are not going down. See page 2 for this

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

story as well.

Turn to Page 3 to see photos and a story from the unveiling of a special addition to Central Park in North Battleford aimed at helping the less fortunate by providing items the more fortunate can afford

to purchase. It’s a project initiated by the Battlefords Junior Citizen of the Year, Natalya Shevchuk.

On Page 7, see scenes from the celebration of Mother’s Day at the Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts Sunday.

Don Ross Centre all dolled up The North Battleford doll collection began more than 40 years ago with an Anne of Green Gables doll and has grown to include 123 dolls and figurines in 85 groupings.

They have been recently brought out of storage and have been put on display at the Don Ross Centre as part of the City of North Battleford’s Historic Archives inventory. See the story on Page 3.

Photo by Shannon Kovalsky

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PAGE 2 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

101st Street tree dominates discussion at city council

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The fate of a tree on 101st Street ended up dominating discussion Monday night at city council.

At issue was a request from the Holm Meiklejohn Lawrence law firm, who are developers of a new building that will house their law office on 1421101st Street.

Both Patricia Meiklejohn and Jaylyn Lawrence were before council Monday, seeking a permit to replace the sidewalk and construct a driveway from their parking lot out to 101st Street.

But standing in the way of their plans is a large Amur Maple tree next to the sidewalk. A request had been made to the city that the tree be removed to accommodate the driveway into the parking lot.

The entire issue is reminiscent of a recent council meeting in which a number of local residents showed up at council to voice concern about tree removal on 97th Street to accommodate UPAR work.

That heightened the sensitivity among city officials about the need to find ways to preserve as many city trees as possible.

But the proponents expressed concern that allowing the tree to stay will complicate plans to put in a laneway to their parking lot from the street.

In particular, the law firm wants to accommodate a handicapped-parking stall inside that parking lot, closest to the front of the building. The idea is so the building is accessible to clients, many of whom are seniors. Their original proposal was to put that handicapped stall inside the parking lot. There are

other issues as well.

As for the tree on 101st Street, it is 25 years old and is healthy and in good condition. According to Tim Yeaman of the city, it should continue to live for another 20 to 25 years.

In this particular case, city manager Jim Puffalt indicated he believes a compromise could be achieved by trimming and pruning the tree, by losing the one off-street parking spot which was going to be designated handicapped, and to provide the block with an on-street handicapped parking stall in the vicinity.

Also, instead of the curb crossing going on the south side of the parking lot, where the tree is located, it would be located on the north side to protect the tree. It was described as a “lower cost way of achieving what needs to be done,” said Puffalt.

The indication from

council is they wanted to see the tree saved, if at all possible.

Puffalt indicated further discussions will be hap-

pening with the law firm in the coming days to try to find a solution. He planned to report back at the next council meeting.

Trees have become a hot issue at city council in recent weeks. At Monday’s meeting, lawyers Patricia Meiklejohn and Jaylyn Lawrence of the Holm Meiklejohn Lawrence law firm were seeking a permit to replace the sidewalk and construct a driveway to their parking lot at their new office on 101st Street. But complicating their plans is an Amur Maple tree standing on the street, and that was the focus of discussion at council Monday. Photos by John Cairns

Fines going up for parking infractions

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

They were agreed to during discussion of budget revisions, but now it’s official. Fines are going up in the city of North Battleford.

A bylaw was passed last week at city council to increase penalties under the Traffic Bylaw. The provisions include increasing penalties from $30 to $40 for exceeding the time limits in the two-hour parking areas and for parking on streets during restricted times or days.

Also going up are fines for parking or stopping in fire lanes, or in handi-

capped stalls without a permit. For those, fines are going up from $150 to $200.

City Manager Jim Puffalt said there was no excuse for people to park in those areas, because those areas are well-signed.

“I know that some people will say it’s a tax grab,” said Puffalt, but he added that “you don’t have to break the law and you don’t pay.”

He noted there were issues at the hospital with respect to people parking in fire lanes, so that was one area that was addressed.

Also added were new provisions to prohibit operators of vehicles from

driving through large accumulations of water in a manner that would splash pedestrians, or create waves and endanger properties.

Puffalt noted the City of Yorkton has fines for those incidents as well. The fines

for North Battleford are set at $200.

The traffic bylaw amendments were approved unanimously in three readings at council.

On another item related to the city budget revisions approved last month, coun-

cil has approved the proposed increase of $10 for criminal records checks.

The increase will apply for every level of service requested, with the exception of those serving an organization as a volunteer. Those will not be increasing.

City provides $25,000 to Lighthouse

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

City hall has approved a contribution of $25,000 to The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords for 2017.

The reason is to support a mobile outreach program that the Lighthouse has

started. It utilizes a vehicle to help pick up and transport the homeless or others in need around the city. It would also respond to calls from community agencies or medical services, among others.

Two businesses have already been referred to

this service, indicated City Manager Jim Puffalt, who noted the service will be “very valuable” to the community.

The contribution was included in the 2017 Budget Revisions approved at council last month.

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Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 3

Doll collection back on display

By Shannon Kovalsky

North Battleford’s doll collection started with Anne of Green Gables more than 40 years ago.

Staff Reporter

With the presenting of an Anne of Green Gables doll more than 40 years ago by Battlefords Allied Arts Council members Dorothy Boyd and Connie Tubb to librarians Joan Bunce and Sonia Curry, the North Battleford doll collection began.

In the years since, it’s grown to include 123 dolls and figurines separated into 85 groupings – growing in scope from “storybook” dolls, such as Anne of Green Gables and Alice of Alice in Wonderland, to cultural dolls donated to the library from residents who’d picked them up on their travels, including traditional dolls from Peru, Brazil, Mexico and Romania.

Apart from the first four or five dolls in the library’s collection donated by the BAAC, Bunce said there wasn’t a plan when it came to adding more. Rather, after the BAAC got it off the ground “it caught on. It was just whenever people decided to give gifts,” she added.

After the library moved locations from the building the Allen Sapp gallery now occupies to its current home on 101st Street, the dolls came too – first, on display, and in recent years, stored in the basement.

Regarding the dolls being moved to storage, Bunce said she was concerned “about what would

“It’s part of our history,” says former librarian Joan Bunce.

Photos by Shannon Kovalsky

happen” to the dolls and felt the public might still have interest in the consigned collection.

“I knew that was not the place for them to be ... It’s part of the City’s collection, it’s part of our history,” said Bunce. “So, I came to the

archives.”

The City’s archivist, Tammy Donahue Buziak, agreed with Bunce that something could be arranged.

Though the City archives are not a museum, the dolls were included

City approves $25,000 for Lighthouse Continued from Page 2 The year before, in 2016, the City had approved a $25,000 grant to the Lighthouse to match donations raised from

their “Coldest Night of the Year” fundraising initiative. It was also suggested at the meeting that the Lighthouse be encouraged to approach council during the budget period with

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“discrete items.” The archives typically contain documents and photographs of the City’s history, rather than articles of cultural memorabilia, Donahue Buziak explained.

However, there was still a place for them, she said.

“There’s a great interest for them,” Buziak said, relating a story of having seen people at the Don Ross Centre for a meeting catch a glimpse of the dolls and investigating further.

With the dolls out of the basement and viewable to

the public, Bunce said she is “absolutely delighted” with the archive’s display case next to their office in Don Ross Room 111.

“They’re spread out and visible. They’re in a perfect place for people who come and go here to see.”

PAGE 4 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

A wartime measure that haunts us still In the first 50 years after Confederation, the ethos was that taxing incomes weakened Canada’s competitive position. That changed in 1917.

By Livio De Matteo THUNDER BAY, Ont./Troy Media/ - The introduction of income tax in Canada 100 years ago dramatically changed federal finances and Canadians’ lives.

As a result First World War funding demands, the federal government brought in personal income and corporate income taxes in 1917. A federal sales tax followed in 1921.

Personal income tax marked a shift in federal tax philosophy. In the first 50 years after Confederation 150 years ago, the ethos was that taxing incomes weakened Canada’s competitive position. That changed in 1917.

Federal personal income tax arrived on Sept. 20, 1917. A four per cent tax was imposed on all income of single people (unmarried persons, widows or widowers without dependent children) over $1,500. For everyone else, the personal exemption was $3,000. In today’s dollars, the exemptions were worth approximately $24,500 and $50,000 respectively.

For married Canadians with dependents and an annual income greater than $6,000 (approximately $99,500 in today’s dollars), the tax rate ranged from two to 22 per cent.

However, because of the relatively high exemptions, only two to eight per cent of individuals filed returns during the initial years of the federal personal income tax. Indeed, personal income taxation remained a relatively modest source of federal government revenue until the Second World War. The Second World War dramatically expanded the federal personal income tax, with the most notable change being the introduction of high marginal tax rates.

For example, the pre-Second World War marginal rate on taxable income between $1,000 and $2,000 was four per cent. By 1942, it had increased to 44 per cent. For taxable income between $10,000 and $15,000, it was 13.7 per cent before the war but 69 per cent by 1942.

While marginal tax rates came down after the war, they remained substantially higher than they had been before the war. And the proportion of the population having to file income taxes rose over time. While only 2.3 per cent of the population filed personal income taxes in 1938, by 1975 that number had grown to 52 per cent. Now, approximately 75 per cent of Canadians file income taxes.

Changes continued to occur in tax rates and brackets over time. By 2015 there were four brackets with rates of

15, 22, 26 and 29 per cent. A fifth bracket was added in 2016, with rates ranging from 15 per cent to 33 per cent.

And further changes may be on the way given the ramping up of federal government spending.

The one constant in all of this change is growing government revenue from the personal income tax.

The burden of federal income taxes has increased from roughly $14 per person in 1918 (in 2016 dollars) to about $4,120 in 2017, an almost 300-fold increase. As a share of gross domestic product, it has grown from 0.2 per cent and is expected to be 7.2 per cent in 2017. As a share of total federal revenue, the tax has grown from 2.6 per cent in 1918 and is expected to reach 51 per cent in 2017.

A tax that was anathema to federal politicians in the first 50 years after Confederation and that many believe was introduced as a temporary wartime measure has come to be the dominant source of federal government revenue. Its creation and most dramatic expansion occurred during periods of war.

While the late 20th century saw a series of reforms that resulted in a reduction in the number of brackets, a lowering of rates and a broadening of the base, recent federal tax policy has taken the first steps towards both higher rates and more brackets.

And so, 100 years after its introduction in Canada, personal income tax continues to change federal public finances and Canadians’ lives.

Livio Di Matteo is a senior fellow of the Fraser Institute and professor of economics at Lakehead University.

Letter

Resident warns against feeding squirrels Dear Editor Well it’s rat season again! I’ve notice residents putting rat feeders up and filling them with peanuts. These little creatures distribute bugs and illness to your pets and YOU. If they don’t cost you hundreds in repair to your property, vehicles and buildings, they may just nip your baby sitting in the back yard. THAT’S bad.

Please don’t feed the squirrels.

Richard Wouters Battleford

P.S. check your insurance Dear Editor Me again.

About feeding rats/squirrels. You had better check with your insurance agent to see if your covered if your house, vehicle or outbuildings get damaged. The bad thing is, if your neigbour has damages to thier property because your feeding the rodents you might be liable.

Not Good. So if you think it’s worth it, you better look into it.

Richard Wouters Battleford

Published since 1905 Becky Doig Editor

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Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 5

Blessing Box unveiled in NB’s Central Park

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

A local project to help those in need was unveiled in Central Park next to 102nd Street on Wednesday.

It was the Blessing Box, and it was the initiative of Natalya Shevchuk, who was chosen as the North Battleford recipient of RBC Canada’s 150 Initiative. She received $150 to go towards a project to benefit the Battlefords community. As her project she chose a Blessing Box, basically a large cupboard that contains everyday items that can be picked up by those less fortunate.

On Wednesday, Natalya and other family members including sister Marusia and brother Ivan filled the Blessing Box with items such as toothpaste, diapers, Kleenex, clothing, food and other essentials.

Along with her proud family, also on hand for the launch was Leisure Servic-

Leisure Services Director Bill Samborski, Operations Manager Colin Carriere of the City of North Battleford, Natalya Shevchuk and Rob Rongve of RBC Dominion Securities. Photos by John Cairns

es Director Bill Samborski and Operations Manager Colin Carriere of the City

of North Battleford as well as Rob Rongve of RBC Dominion Securities.

JPII named winner in conservation contest Hoping for lessons learned

Staff Some local North Battleford high school students have received recognition for their efforts in connection to a province-wide energy conservation campaign.

John Paul II Collegiate in North Battleford received an honorable mention for 25 Acts of Energy Conservation, a K-12, province-wide energy conservation campaign.

JPII was also one of two schools winning a $500 Saskatchewan Science Centre Experience prize; their winning photo submission was for their Bokashi composting project.

Three other schools also won random draws for $500.

Overall, Churchill Community High School (La Ronge) and Caswell

Community School (Saskatoon) were this year’s champions, winning $1000 each. Winning projects can be found at http:// ses.25acts.ca/2017-winners/.

The program provides students hands-on experi-

ence dealing with sustainability challenges. The hope is that students will apply the lessons learned to their own communities after they graduate.

Between Nov. 1, 2016 and April 30, teachers across Saskatchewan captured and submitted photos of their school’s conservation actions, which were entered into random draws.

Students also put together blogs or video submissions about their conservation efforts. In all, 20 schools took part.

The efforts are organized by the Saskatchewan Environmental Society, in partnership with the Saskatchewan Science Centre.

SaskEnergy, SARCAN, and The Co-operators sponsor the program. More information about the program is available at the website www.25acts.ca.

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PAGE 6 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Sask Hospital P3 among hot topics at Leg The Battlefords once again figured prominently at the legislature last week.

In particular, it was a construction milestone for the new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford that had Battlefords MLA Herb Cox enthused Monday, March 8. His statement in the Legislature, as recorded in Hansard, was devoted to that topic.

Mr. Cox: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last Friday I along with the member from Cut Knife-Turtleford had the privilege to join with hundreds of people from the community, health professionals, and construction partners to celebrate that the Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford is now 60 per cent complete, is on time for completion, and is on budget.

Those of us from the North Battleford area have been seeing this amazing complex rise up over the last couple of years, and the progress has been astounding. This fast progress can be attributed to the contractors who have put in more than 535,000 hours of work to keep the new Sask Hospital North Battleford on time and on budget. I would also like to note that 20 per cent of the workers on site are indigenous, with 25 per cent of the companies involved so far are from Saskatchewan.

Mr. Speaker, it was a fitting milestone that fell at the conclusion of Mental Health Week and shows how our government has been investing where it counts to make sure that Saskatchewan has world-class facilities.

And it shows that our government is acting on the recommendations in the mental health and addic-

tions action plan. There’s increasingly an innovative approach to delivering mental health care and supports, which will ensure people get the help they need when they need it and in the best possible environment.

Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members of this Assembly to join me in thanking all those who are working so hard to make this project happen, and thank the community of North Battleford which has rallied being this project. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

But not everyone in the legislature was as excited with what was happening with the Saskatchewan Hospital construction.

In particular, the use of public-private partnerships to build that project, and others in the province, came under fire from the opposition. NDP critic Cathy Sproule roasted Minister of Justice Gordon Wyant over the practice of paying out honorariums to losing bidders in the P3 tendering process, on the grounds that these payouts were a waste of money.

Ms. Sproule: — Mr. Speaker, this isn’t just business as usual. And the fact that the Sask Party thinks it is, the fact that the Sask Party thinks it is explains a lot about how we got here.

P3s cost money, period. They’re good for

the party making the announcement, but everyone else pays the price, Mr. Speaker. On the Swift Current long-term care facility, there were two payments of $300,000. The Saskatchewan Hospital in North Battleford, two payments of $500,000. On the Regina bypass, there were three payments totalling $3 million, Mr. Speaker.

On the joint-use school project no. 1, $600,000; and on project no. 2, $500,000 for each. All of them, Mr. Speaker, for failed bids.

Mr. Speaker, this year’s budget is full of taxes and cuts that will hurt families and local businesses, but the big corporations get to pay less and collect more cash. Mr. Speaker, why won’t the Sask Party simply admit that the P3 process costs Saskatchewan families too much?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General.

Hon. Mr. Wyant: — Mr. Speaker, I argue with the preamble. This is business as usual, Mr. Speaker. P3s are being used, Mr. Speaker, in over 40 jurisdictions in this country, successfully, Mr. Speaker. We’re going to be saving over $500 million for the taxpayers, Mr. Speaker. Even . . .

[Interjections] The Speaker: — I recognize the minister.

Hon. Mr. Wyant: — Mr.

Speaker, even the Notley government in Alberta is using the P3, and they’re paying honorariums, not only with respect to the Anthony Henday, Mr. Speaker, but most recently the P3 that that government announced for the south Calgary bypass, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, this is about innovation, Mr. Speaker. And if the members opposite want to look to see where the savings are in our P3s, they only have to go online. They only have to go online, Mr. Speaker, and look at the value-for-money reports.

All the numbers are there, Mr. Speaker.

But again, Mr. Speaker, the interim Leader of the Opposition acknowledged the importance of honorariums in committee last year, Mr. Speaker. So for the fact that they stand up and think this is a big surprise, Mr. Speaker, some big, hidden number, they only have to look online to look at the actual numbers, Mr. Speaker. We’re saving the taxpayer, Mr. Speaker.

And, Mr. Speaker, these honorariums amount to no more than one-third of 1 per cent of the total contract price, a small price to pay for innovation.

On Tuesday, it was the turn of opposition leader Trent Wotherspoon to go after Premier Brad Wall on P3s. This time, Wotherspoon’s beef was with money going to companies outside Saskatchewan.

Mr. Wotherspoon: — Mr. Speaker, no answer.

Of course the question was about how much money is flowing to these companies outside Saskatchewan, Mr. Speaker. So more grandstanding but no transparency.

And you know, time and time again, we see

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the Sask Party putting the interests of their party and the wealthy and the well-connected ahead of Saskatchewan people.

You know, what we see is the Sask Party’s mortgaged the future of our province with their costly schemes. Hundreds of millions of dollars, billions, in so-called partnerships with corporations who will collect money from Saskatchewan people for decades.

Mr. Speaker, P3s [public-private partnership] let the Sask Party make announcements, cut ribbons, put on the full dog-andpony shows, but again it’s Saskatchewan people who are being forced to pay the price, and they’re on the hook for decades, Mr. Speaker.

For example, the Swift Current long-term care centre is worth $108 million, but the Sask Party’s forcing Saskatchewan people to pay more than two and a half times that amount — $279 million, Mr. Speaker. That’s on top of the hundreds of thousands of Saskatchewan dollars handed to companies with failed bids on this project.

Mr. Speaker, with the real costs of Sask Party mismanagement mounting, will the Premier at least admit that the Sask Party has failed with their costly P3 schemes?

The Speaker: — I recognize the Premier.

Hon. Mr. Wall: — Mr. Speaker, in the member’s preamble he’s conveniently forgetting to note that part of the advantage of a P3 is that it contemplates maintenance throughout the life of the project, Mr. Speaker, at least for decades into the project, which is why, Mr. Speaker,

an independent evaluation of the long-term care facility that he has raised indicates that it will save taxpayers $60 million.

It’s also why that same independent analysis has demonstrated that with the P3 projects undertaken by this government the savings have been about a half a billion dollars, Mr. Speaker, over all of the P3 projects undertaken by the Government of Saskatchewan.

Now he says, the Leader of the Opposition says, well these are just about ribbon cuttings and press releases. I’ll tell you what, Mr. Speaker, they’re actually about a brand new Saskatchewan Hospital in North Battleford. They’re about a bypass for the city that’s been needed.

They’re about brand new schools in the province of Saskatchewan that have been needed because of population growth. Mr. Speaker, they’re about projects like a long-term care facility in this province.

What we have seen, Mr. Speaker, in the last eight years is both a conventional and a P3 approach to building infrastructure.

Why? Because this was ignored by members opposite for 16 years, including their last four years when they were sitting on about $750 million and kept telling the people of North Battleford, you can wait. And he kept telling the people, those mental health patients that needed that hospital, you can wait.

We took a different approach on this side. We used a P3, Mr. Speaker.

They’re saving money, and they’re getting projects built finally in the province of Saskatchewan.

connect to Canada’s recent past or enjoy a family fun day and play Disc Golf on one of Saskatchewan’s most picturesque nine-hole courses.

To ensure the best experience possible experience, visitors are encouraged to plan their visit ahead of time through the Parks Canada website.

The FREE Parks Canada 2017 Discovery Pass is available from the Parks Canada website as well as at Parks Canada entry gates and visitor centres.

Partners such as Mountain Equipment Co-op

(MEC) and CIBC will also be distributing passes for Parks Canada. For more information about what is happening and where during Canada 150, visit the website or download the Passport2017.ca mobile application.

Please note that only admission is free for 2017. There are fees for enhanced interpretative programs and recreational services and products such as camping and firewood, special events, equipment rentals and fishing permits, and overnight backcountry use.

Fort opens May 22 - free admission for Canada 150 Submitted Starting on May 22, Fort Battleford National Historic Site will begin welcoming visitors for the 2017 season.

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the government is offering free admission to all Parks Canada places in 2017. The FREE Parks

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PAGE 8 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Council notes May 8 meeting

Water issues, flushing, garbage

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Picturesque — Photo by Louise Lundberg

In addition to the stories already covered by the News-Optimist, here are some other items of note from the May 8 meeting of city council in North Battleford: The findings are in from a compliance audit conducted by the Water Security Agency during the week of March 21, covering the city’s water treatment plants and records there.

While there were no findings in the audit report of serious non-compliance that required immediate attention, there were some items that needed to be addressed.

There were two findings of “non-compliance posing a non-immediate

threat” to health or safety, and 12 findings of “noncompliance that do not pose a significant threat” to health or safety.

On a more positive note, there were also two findings of compliance that exceeded the minimum standands and therefore deserved special mention.

According to city manager Jim Puffalt, most of these audit findings involved record keeping and housekeeping issues which are “easily correctable,” he said.

Puffalt also added the major issues of providing good quality water are being met. Administration intends to work with the water treatment plant foreman and operators to address the issues that were found in the audit, and the corrective plans will be

submitted within 30 days.

In another water-related item, it was confirmed by director of utilities Stewart Schafer that the water flushing program was under way. Flushing of the lines started Monday and will run 8 pm to 8 am.

Schafer also noted the importance of the program.

If it weren’t done, then every time a fire hydrant was opened or a water line broke, “you would see your water become very turpid.”

In other words, discolored.

It would take several hours or sometimes even a day before that turpidity settles down, Schafer said.

In other items, City administration thanked all the volunteers and staff for participating in the April 20 Earth Day city cleanup. In a report to council from the city manager, al-

most 2,000 kg of litter was picked up – that amounts to almost 800 bags of garbage.

City manager Puffalt added there was “no reason” for people throwing garbage out their windows into the streets or on the highways.

The good news is that the litter collected on Earth Day has been declining over the years: roughly double the amount of litter had been picked up in 2015. Puffalt says they will be doing the city cleanup again next year, which would be their fifth anniversary of this city-led effort.

Council also considered an application from North Battleford classical musician Cole Knutson for grant money to assist him with travel to a piano performance at Carnegie Hall in New York as well as at the Franz Schubert Institute in Austria.

The direction from council was that the existing policy be followed, which means Knutson will qualify for grants of $100 for each trip, for a total of $200.

In announcements, Mayor Ryan Bater promoted Block Party Weekend June 9-11. Neighbours and friends are encouraged to host a block party that particular weekend.

There are also information sessions on block parties at the Don Ross Centre and the next one is May 17 from 5:30 to 7pm.

Finally on Monday night, the issue of parking on the 1600 block of 95th Street came up.

The issue was prompted by a parking infraction from a resident who had believed they were able to angle park on the street. Council had to decide whether to allow angle parking on the street, something residents had sought for the street before, or to maintain parallel parking there.

The recommendation from administration was the latter. But after hearing from a couple of residents of the street, council was swayed in favor of angle parking on the residential side, as residents stated the angle parking was the safer and more convenient way to go on that particular street.

Council voted in favor of a motion from coun.

Kelli Hawtin to allow nose-in parking on the residential side of the block, and to not allow any parking on the east and north sides of the block.

Finally, there were two proclamations: May 8-14 as Naturopathic Medicine Week, and May 15-19 as Sexual Assault Awareness Week in the City of North Battleford.

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for May 23.

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 9

Rally for STC Support

Friday during the noon hour, supporters of the Saskatchewan Transportation Company rallied outside MLA Herb Cox’s office against the government’s decision to close STC at the end of the month. A large group of demonstrators, which included members of the CUPE union, heard speeches and waved placards in support of STC and against the Brad Wall government during the rally. A petition was also available for people to sign to express opposition to the STC cuts.

Photos by John Cairns

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PAGE 10 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Brother Stefan is named Hosta of the Year

By Erl Svendsen, PAg

I was a little surprised to discover that there are over 3,000 registered hosta cultivars. The choices are endless: giant, dwarf, green, gold, blue, variegated, wide leaf, narrow leaf, puckered leaf and twisted leaf. Do you want white flowers or mauve flowers? How about fragrance? You can have it all. With that much selection, how in the world does a gardener make a choice?

And why are we usually limited to just a dozen or more of the same varieties year after year?

The American Hosta Growers Association (www.hostagrowers.org) understood this quandary 20 years ago when they started their Hosta of the Year program. It was their way to encourage retailers to expand the range of cultivars they offered for sale by highlighting a cultivar that may be underused but

is a good all-round garden plant with some great, interesting features.

This year’s Hosta of the Year is Brother Stefan.

And it doesn’t disappoint.

It was released in 1999 by Olga Petryszyn (known as the ‘Hosta Lady’, www. hostalady.com). It’s a medium-sized (25 inches tall x 30 inches wide) hosta with tri-colour puckered or seersucker leaves. Centred on the leaves is a gold maple leaf pattern (if you use your imagination) surrounded by chartreuse and edged in dark green. Pure white flower clusters fly above the mound of leaves in early summer. Because of its thick leaves, it is de-

scribed as ‘slug resistant.’ I have also seen ‘deer resistant’ in some descriptions.

As with most hostas, it requires evenly moist soil.

Amend your soil with plenty of organic matter and cover soil with 3-4 inches of organic mulch to conserve soil moisture, keep the roots cool in summer and protect them in winter from our extreme prairie cold. Plant in part to full shade. In the garden, it makes a great accent plant or it can be used en masse as a border. It can also be grown in containers (in fall, dig plant into your garden) and the longer flower stems, up to two feet long, can be used a cut flowers.

Olga has registered several outstanding hosta cultivars, but her favourite, when asked, is Brother Stefan. It may turn out to be yours too.

Erl gardens in Saskatoon. He recently started tweeting @ErlSv.

The American Hosta Growers Association has named Brother Stefan Hosta of the year. Photo by Olga Petryszyn

This column is provided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (SPS; www.saskperennial.ca; hortscene@ yahoo.com; www.facebook.com/saskperennial).

Check out our Bulletin Board or Calendar for

upcoming garden information sessions, workshops, tours and other events: Gardening at the UofS – http://gardening.usask. ca or call 306-966-5539.

May 27, 9:00 am - Labour & Learn [a volunteer and learning opportunity,

helping to maintain two public SPS gardens at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo]. Got growing questions? Gardenline is here to help! Email gardenline@usask.ca with your questions or call Helen at 306-966-5865.

Get a jumpstart on the season with transplants

By Jackie Bantle It’s nice to have annual flowers blooming as soon as possible. Or be the first gardener on the block with cucumbers. You can get a jump on the season by transplanting seedlings as an alternative to direct seeding. In fact, for some plants the only way to get flowers or vegetables during our relatively short prairie growing season (90-110 days) is by growing transplants. Transplants of course cost much more than seed, whether you measure that in dollars spent at a nursery or in the time and effort you put in growing your own. Protect your investment and maximize your success by following a few simple

guidelines.

Start with healthy looking transplant seedlings: Healthy seedlings will be dark green. Yellowing leaves is a sign of water stress or that plants are too small for their container (i.e. root bound).

The plants should be medium height with a thick stem. Long, leggy transplants will tend to dry out quickly and break off in the wind.

Look for cultivars recommended for your area. If you are unfamiliar with the cultivars for sale, ask your greenhouse grower what is special about the cultivar he/she is selling. For vegetables, you can review the results from the University of Saskatchewan vegetable trials to see what grows

well here (http://www.usask.ca/agriculture/plantsci/ vegetable/).

Harden off before planting: All transplants need to be hardened off prior to planting out in the garden.

Hardening off helps to prevent transplant shock which can stunt or delay growth. Extreme transplant shock will result in plant death.

Starting two weeks prior to planting out, put the transplants outside in a sheltered, warm, sunny location for four hours a day.

Steadily increase the amount of time that the transplants are left outdoors until they are left outdoors overnight. Protect the transplants with a light cover for the first few

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nights outdoors.

Slowly increase the time between watering but give seedlings a good soaking when you do. Avoid drying out the seedlings to the point of wilting.

Plant when safe: Once all danger of frost has passed, it is time to plant out your transplants into the garden.

Soil temperature should be at least 15˚C. If you don’t have a soil thermometer (and who does?), soil is usually warm enough in the third or fourth week in May in Saskatchewan.

Soil should be moist (not wet) and worked up before planting.

Gently massage the transplant root ball to break it up without causing too much damage. Do not rip the root ball apart.

The root ball must be COMPLETELY COVERED with soil to prevent the root ball and transplant from drying out.

Transplant after the hottest part of the day to prevent transplant stress.

Avoid windy days.

Provide wind- and frostprotection for young transplants. Open-ended milk cartons, hotcaps, supported crop covers and “water coats” provide excellent protection from wind and frost.

Water transplants with a 10-52-10 water-soluble fertilizer, mixed according to label directions.

Other Considerations: Some plants like cucumbers, melons, watermelon do not like to be transplanted and will produce fruit in Saskatchewan if direct-sown. However, if transplanted, plant only small transplants (one or two true leaves/plant) and

use Jiffy 7 peat pellets: avoid disturbing the roots as much as possible when transplanting. Other species such as peppers, eggplant and tomatoes must be transplanted in Saskatchewan, the growing season is too short for them to produce if directed seeded.

Fortunately, these plants don’t mind having their roots slightly disturbed.

Jackie is a horticulturist living in Saskatoon.

This column is provided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (SPS; www.saskperennial.ca; hortscene@ yahoo.com; www.facebook.com/saskperennial).

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 11

Lucas Punkari

Sports Reporter

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

Email: newsoptimist.sports@sasktel.net

Graduating players reflect on time with North Stars

By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter

For Battlefords North Stars captain Kendall Fransoo, the realization that his junior hockey career was officially over was immediate after his team lost to the Penticton Vees in the 3 vs. 4 playoff game at the Western Canada Cup on May 6.

“It pretty much set in for all of us that are graduating once the buzzer went, and we were all pretty upset,” Fransoo said. “When you start to look back on everything though, you realize how great a season it was.

“Everyone on the team stuck together and we worked hard every time we stepped out on the ice. This entire group just clicked right away and we are pretty much like one big family.”

The 2016-17 Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League champions officially wrapped up their memorable campaign Wednesday

evening as they held their year-end banquet at the Wildlife Federation Building.

During the event, Fransoo, Connor Sych, Zach Nedelec, Logan Nachtegaele, Connor Logan, Coby Downs, Keaton Holinaty, Reed Delainey and Jared Blaquiere all received jerseys that they wore during the season as parting gifts as they all move on from the North Stars.

Unlike the rest of the group, Sych is eligible for one more season in the SJHL, but he’s elected to start his education at the University of Saskatchewan where he’ll be studying kinesiology.

“All three years have been great here,” Sych said. “I remember coming in as a 17-year-old and having guys like Nick Fountain and ‘Franny’ showing me the ropes, so it was nice to help mould the younger guys and show them what it takes to be a North Stars as I got older.

“It’s been such an awesome experience with this team. Everything from the board of the directors, to the coaches and the fans is of the highest quality.”

For Delainey, the highlight of his tenure with the team was an easy one to pick out.

“Since I came here four years ago this team has had a chance to win it all but we just weren’t able to pull it out,” Delainey said.

“To finally have the opportunity to win a championship it means a lot, especially as this was my final season with the North Stars. To be able to win it for the team that I grew up watching was a dream come true.”

After winning their second Canalta Cup over the Flin Flon Bombers, which was the first title for the team since 2000, the North Stars finished in fourth place at the Western Canada Cup with a 1-3-1 record.

While they didn’t earn a spot at the RBC Cup,

the graduating players feel that those that are returning to the team next year can take several things out of the week as they move forward.

“The speed of those teams is such a huge factor out there, especially in some of the other leagues where they are used to that on a nightly basis,” Delainey said. “You have to be able to adjust to that in today’s game and I’m sure that’s something everyone will take away from the week.

“The experience we got from playing the other leagues was huge as this was the first time this group had been to a tournament like that,” Fransoo added. “I think with the guys that are here now, you’ll see them build off of that and have the opportunity to go an RBC Cup very soon.”

The North Stars will also find themselves in a different situation next year, as they will enter the 2017-18 campaign with a

target on their back.

“I think the biggest thing I’d tell the returning guys is that they can’t be complacent,” Downs said.

“Everyone in the league will be trying to beat them, but I know that with the group of guys that are here, they’ll show why they deserve to be on top.”

So far, two of the graduating players from the North Stars are set to continue their career at a postsecondary level.

Downs will be playing for the current NCAA Division III national champion Norwich Cadets, while Delainey will be suiting up for the RIT Tigers in the NCAA Division I ranks.

“Our camp starts in August so there’s going to be a lot of work at the gym in the off-season to make sure I’m in game shape,” Downs said. “It’s been a long year so I’m going to take a couple of weeks off to reflect on everything that’s happened, and then it’ll be back to work to get ready for that next level.”

“Playing in the SJHL has helped me a lot in getting used to the physical side of the game and I think that’ll help me a lot at RIT,” Delainey added.

“One thing I noticed at the Western Canada Cup was that the hitting wasn’t quite as profound as it was out here, so being used to the physical style of play here with the speed of the college game is going to be huge as I adapt to playing down there.”

Two year-end awards were handed out at the banquet as Downs received the team’s top scorer and playoff most valuable player honours.

It was also announced during the event that a total of $984 had been donated to Telemiracle from CJV the Carpet People and Reed Delainey’s grandparents through the Miracle Mission initiative that raised money from each of the 39 points that the Edam product put up during his final regular season in the SJHL.

PAGE 12 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

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Wawota Pats earn Hall of Fame induction Submitted by Jane Shury The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association is proud to announce the selection of the Wawota Pats Baseball Team to be inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame, Team Category, Saturday, August 19, 2017 in Battleford, Saskatchewan.

The community of Wawota has had senior level baseball since 1915, with the exception of the war years. The team had many players over the years with their most successful season found competing in many tournaments in three different senior leagues.

They would often play in two tournaments a week, usually in Southeast Saskatchewan and Western Manitoba. Their best season showed a record of winning 44 games with 6 losses. At one point they won 5 consecutive tournaments.

The Wawota Pats Baseball Team was formed in 1951 and has played continuously until the present time. Currently they play in a nine team Southeast Senior League.

The late Lyle Weatherald was the first coach of the Pats and continued coaching the team for the next 20 years. The first players were Bantam and Midget age, but they competed in the senior category.

For the past 65 years the Pats have competed in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and North Dakota, being one of the most competitive teams for the majority of these years.

The Pats were the 1970 Saskatchewan Provincial Champions, at a time when all senior teams competed in one category, with the exception of the Northern and Southern Saskatchewan Leagues that hired players.

Baseball at that time

drew big crowds with one tournament in the small community of Bellegarde drawing 23 senior teams playing on the baseball diamonds. The Pats were in the final where the game was called off due to darkness in a 0-0 tie.

From 1952 to 2015, Pats players and players from a second Wawota senior team combined to make a team that competed for the area.

Their successes include winning the 1972 Saskatchewan Intermediate Championship as the Cardinals, the 1995 Provincial Senior AA Championship and the Western Canadian Silver Medal in 1995 and the 2005 Saskatchewan Senior A Champions.

Several members of the Pats have also played on Wawota Twilite baseball teams at the Mini, Maxi and the Masters tournaments, and have won several provincial titles along the way.

Pats fall in WHL final Staff

The stellar campaign for the Regina Pats came to a suprising end at the Brandt Centre Sunday night.

Forward Alexander True found the back of the net in overtime for the Seattle Thunderbirds as they defeated the host Pats 4-3 and won their first Western Hockey League championship in six games.

The Pats, who feature Battlefords product Braydon Buziak as one of their forwards, held a 3-1 lead midway through the third period and looked set to force a seventh and deciding contest Monday.

The Thunderbirds had other ideas, however, as they scored two goals in the final minutes to force overtime.

It was a tough finish for the Pats, who were the top team in the regular season and were ranked first na-

tionally, as they attempted to hoist the Ed Chynoweth Cup for the first time since 1980.

They were also looking to be the first Saskatchewan team to win the league championship since the Swift Current Broncos in 1993.

The 19-year-old Buziak, who led the post-game handshake line for the Pats, had a goal and four assists in 23 playoff games in his rookie WHL campaign.

The Thunderbirds have a connection to the area with former Battlefords Stars netminder Rylan Toth on the roster.

The Saskatoon product led the WHL with 36 wins in the regular season, but the overager had been sidelined with an injury for the last two months.

In his place, 16-year-old rookie Carl Stankowski turned in one of the most surprising runs in league

history.

Having only played in seven games in the regular season, the Calgary product compiled a 16-4 record in the playoffs with a 2.50 goals against average.

Next up for the Thunderbirds is a trip to the MasterCard Memorial Cup, which begins in Windsor, Ont. Friday.

Awaiting them will be the host Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League, the OHL champion Erie Otters and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League champion Saint John Sea Dogs.

The championship game will take place Sunday, May 28.

The Pats will be the host of next year’s tournament, which will mark the 100th anniversary of the event.

Buziak is expected to be in that tournament for his sophohmore campaign.

Fond Farewell

Battlefords North Stars coaches Nate Bedford and Braeden Johnson gave graduating blueliner Connor Sych one of his game-worn jerseys at the team’s year-end banquet Wednesday night. All of the graduating players from this year’s Canalta Cup champions were given one of their jerseys as a momento from their time with the team. Photo by Lucas Punkari

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OBITUARIES SADLOWSKI: In Loving Memory of Rita Evelyn Sadlowski, born November 11, 1940 at Krydor, SK, passed away May 4, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Left to cherish Mom’s memory are her loving children, grandchildren and great-grandchild: JoAnn (Don) McNie - Spencer, Allyson (Jeremy) Hadley and Carson; Tory; Terry Sadlowski (Melanie) - Ashley (Tyson) Bertsch and Colby (Veronique); Shawn Sadlowski.

Sisters-in-law: Shirley Kachmarski - her children: Mark (Sonia) Kachmarski, Sandi (Mike) Boyd & family, Cynthia (Mark) Raby & family, Myles (Laura) Kachmarski & family; Audrey Kachmarski - her children: Kirby Kachmarski & family, Jason Kachmarski & family. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Julian Jack Sadlowski; parents, Paul and Nellie Katchmarskey; brothers: Nap Kachmarski and Allen Kachmarski. Celebration Of Life Service was held on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 1:30 p.m., from “The Garden Chapel” - Battlefords Funeral Service, North Battleford, Saskatchewan with Celebrant Fr. Cuong Luong, Notre Dame de Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Eulogist was Mark Kachmarski. Music Ministry: “Here I Am Lord”, “Amazing Grace” & “How Great Thou Art”.

Honourary Pallbearers were Harwood Manor Staff & T. Eaton’s Co. Staff. Pallbearers Were Colby Sadlowski, Mark Kachmarski, Cynthia Raby, Jason Kachmarski, Spencer McNie, Myles Kachmarski, Kirby Kachmarski and Sandi Boyd. Memorial Donations are requested to Battleford Union Hospital Foundation Inc., Box 1358, North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8 or to Saskatoon Cancer Centre (please designate to Research), 20 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 4H4. Interment was at City Cemetery, North Battleford, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. __________________________________________________ TKATCHUK MURIEL: It is with great sadness that Donnie & Myron announce the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother & great grandmother, Muriel Tkatchuk on Thursday, April 27, 2017.

Muriel’s father Petro Kotyk settled on a farm in the Whitkow area. He married Anna Yawarski where they were blessed with four children, one son & three daughters.

Mary (Nick) Fryz who resided in Saskatoon. Two daughters & one son. (Helen, Slayvia & Ernie). Muriel (Peter) Tkatchuk lived in North Battleford. They had two sons (Donnie & Myron). Olga (Leslie) Martin lived on a farm in rural North Battleford. They have three daughters (Shirley, Linda, Cathy). Fred (Anne) Kotyk lived on the farm until 1961 and moved to Whitkow where they had a General Store & Post Office. They had two sons (Ron & Boris). Muriel married Peter Tkatchuk and moved to a farmsite in the Ranger District on highway 40 to start a new life. It was hard work breaking land & raising a family. In 1955 they moved to the Battlefords. Now she had two houses to look after. If you knew Muriel, everything had to be tidy. She even had time to sing in the church choir & do little needle point. You knew she loved the outdoors, because she would be working in the garden, cutting grass, sweeping the sidewalks & even the road. “Everybody said she should be working for the City.” (ha ha), shoveling snow in winter and a lot of walking in her later life.

She enjoyed her sports from hockey, curling and tennis just to get her blood pressure up. When everything was all done she made dad take her to the City. “You guessed it”, to get her hair done, that was very important. When dad passed away she had to make new friends in the apartments in Kildeer! I think that’s when she found her addiction to Tim Horton’s. If we showed up empty handed to visit her we were in trouble. She lived at Harwood Manor for the remaining years. We are all going to miss that beautiful smile you always had! Special thanks to Dr. Jeffery Hesselson & staff and to the Harwood Manor & staff for all their help. __________________________________________________

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DEXTER: In loving memory of Vivian Jeanette Dexter, born July 25, 1940 in Lloydminster, SK. who passed away April 21, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Vivian is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Raymond; daughters Lana and Carol; siblings Louise (Terry) Pearson of Edmonton, AB; Lionel (Gail) Lorenz of Lloydminster, AB; Marlene Risling of Lloydminster, AB; Edward (Linda) Lorenz of Paradise Hill, SK; Ron (Barb) Lorenz of Whitecourt, AB; brother-in-law Gerald (Therese) Dexter of Kelowna, BC. Vivian is pre-deceased by her parents Simon and Clara Lorenz; mother-in-law and father-in-law Ferne and Art Dexter; brother-in-law Melvin Risling; nephew Greg Pearson. A mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, April 28 at St. Joseph Calasanctius Church at 2 pm, with Father Anthony Afangide officiating. Interment was at City Cemetery, North Battleford SK. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to BUH Foundation, 1092 - 107th Street, North Battleford, SK, S9A 1Z1 or STARS Air Ambulance, 2625 Airport Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7L 7L1. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium. ___________________________________________________ Phyllis Babchuk (nee Orr) 1963 – 2017 Phyllis “Gail” Babchuk (nee Orr) passed away Friday, May 5, 2017 at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon. Gail was born to parents, Mildred & Allan Orr and was raised on the farm in Unity. She graduated high school in 1980 and went on to work several years as a waitress. She married Mark Babchuk in 1995 in North Battleford, where they have lived since that time.

Gail was a housewife and mother whose children were her pride and joy- Cheyenne, Robert, Brandon, and Shane. In her earlier years growing up on the farm in Unity, she enjoyed gathering eggs, swinging on the barn rope onto the bales below, rolling down the hill in an old oil barrel, playing baseball, kick the can & red light green light. Gail helped her mom a lot in the house and enjoyed cooking, baking, mowing the lawn, planting flowers, and dancing while she was able to, crosswords, solitaire and she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Gail never “beat around the bush”, she was always direct and to the point… she was completely honest about how she felt (whether you liked it or not!). She ended up with COPD 12 years ago and has struggled with health issues since. We estimate that she was in and out of ICU at least 20 times and amazed us every time she pulled through; she was such a strong woman!

Being on oxygen 24/7 was no fun for her and it truly limited the activities she could partake in. She could barely walk across the kitchen the last few years as she would run out of air to do so, but she was a true fighter and even with these struggles she did not give up – she had a will to live like no one we’ve ever known- right to the end. Gail was predeceased by her brother, Christopher; her dad, Allan; her sister in law, Lorelei; her step fathers, Jim and Roald; her grandparents (very special grandmother being Mary Ann Rahm); and several aunts and uncles.

Gail will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Mark; her children, Cheyenne (Tyson), Robert, Brandon (Shauna), and Shane (Brigitte); her mother, Mildred Worrall; siblings, James Orr, Patricia Orr (Ben Richard), and Carolyn Huber (Mike); her grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles. The Memorial Service was held on Saturday, May 13th, 2017 at 1:00 PM from Wilkie United Church. Interment followed at the Wilkie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Canadian Lung Association. The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at BUH ICU department for looking after Gail so well the many times she was in hospital, and the caring, loving & gentle staff at RUH ICU who made her last few days as comfortable as possible. A sincere thank you as well to family and friends for your support and condolences- your kindness will always be remembered. Arrangements are entrusted to Lisa Bos, Hillcrest Funeral Home, Saskatoon, SK (306-477-4400). __________________________________________________

DOUCET: In Loving Memory of Henry Leonard Doucet, born September 11, 1926 at Spiritwood, SK., passed away April 30, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Survived by his loving wife, Beatrice Doucet; loving family: Florence Blanchette - Gerry: Daniette & Jason Terlesky – Nolan & Sara, Andre & Renee Blanchette - Carson, Reid & Bailey.

Michel Richard – Cole. Sonin-law, Lyle Roblin: Jamie & Dean Dunlop Brock, Chyanne & Dawson, Jason & Kim Roblin - Matthew & Hailey, Rayanne Roblin - Matthew, Landon & Kyler. Margaret Campbell - Jim – Ryleigh Campbell - Bryer, Lindsay & Kyle Palmer - Rowan & Londyn. Roland Richard - Susan: Conor & Thomas. Bernard Richard - Karen: Eric & Stefon. Ronald Richard - Tammy - Kelsey, Katie & Luke. Dianne Rufallo - Bruno: Olimpia. Sister, Eliza & Albert Kusch; brother, Leo & Mariette Doucet. Predeceased by his Dad, Isador Doucet and his Mom, Eva Doucet; daughter, Paulette Roblin; sisters: Rita Perry & Theresa Cote. Vigil Of Prayer was held on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. with Presider Deacon Ghislain Bellavance.

Mass Of Christian Burial was held on Friday, May 5, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. with Celebrant Fr. Cuong Luong. Both Services were held at St. Andre` Roman Catholic Church, North Battleford, SK. Memorial Donations are requested to Heart and Stoke Foundation, 1738 Quebec Ave., Unit 26, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9. Interment was at Garden Of Christus – Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________ FUNK: Elsie Agnes Funk, May 11, 1933 - May 5, 2017.

With great sadness, the family of Elsie Agnes Funk (nee: Letkeman), beloved wife of James “Jim” Funk, announce that she passed away suddenly on May 5, 2017. Elsie was born at Shell Lake to Heinrich and Aganetha “Nettie” (nee: Penner) Letkeman on May 11, 1933. Elsie attended grades 1-12 at Shell Lake School, and attended Normal School in Saskatoon.

Her education continued at “Summer School” over the next few years. She met James “Jim” Funk in 1952. They were married July 13, 1954. Elsie taught at Edgewater School, Indian Hill School, and Mayfair Central School. Elsie is predeceased by her parents, Nettie and Henry Letkeman, infant daughter, Katherine Funk, son, Wesley Funk, brother, Leonard Letkeman and his wife, Peggy, sister, Doreen Smith and her husband, Edward, brother-in-law Douglas (Bud) Bundy, sister-in-law Grace Uhl and her husband, Reinhold Uhl, brother-in-law Howard Funk and parents in-law Henry and Lena Funk. She is survived by, and will be lovingly remembered by her children, Bradley (Gay) Funk, Leila (Finlay) Currie, Bernard Funk, and Delores Funk; her sister, Lucy Bundy, as well as 10 grandchildren and 8 greatgrandchildren, many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, and the many students who learned to cross their t’s, dot their I’s, and mind their p’s and q’s. Elsie will be remembered for her deep love of and dedication to her family, her passion for teaching and taking pride in the success of her students, her love of nature and the wonders of creation, her joy of music (special mention to John Denver and her favorite country gospel singers), as well as her devotion to God and faithfulness to the church. We welcome all who wish to attend to a graveside service that will be held in her honor on May 11, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Shell Lake Cemetery with Pastor Conrad Hunchak officiating. All are invited to gather at the Shell Lake Lions’ Hall following the service to share stories, refreshments, and birthday cake! Donations in memory of Elsie may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan, 301 - 2550 12th Avenue Regina, SK S4P 3X1. Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Fred Pomrenk, funeral director, Spiritwood (306883-3500). __________________________________________________

PAGE 14 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

FUNERAL SERVICES

FUNERAL SERVICES

IN MEMORIAM

John Merrill Bird

April 1, 1991 - May 14, 2008

Professional Services Provided with Heart and Compassion

IN MEMORIAM

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

In Loving Memory of

Dot

May 19, 2009

ROBERT MACKAY GEORGE HAEGEBAERT P.O. Box 806 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3

Four frame Honey Extractors; also 10 Supers with frames, call Sid Kunstel, 306-843-2709

306-446-4200

KIRK: A Service for Bernice Kirk to celebrate her life will be held on May 27th 2017 at 2:00 PM at Meota Community Hall 395 3rd Street East, Meota, SK. Please join Gordon Kirk and family for a luncheon after the service. Interment will take place afterwards at Meota Cemetery. __________________________________________________________

OBITUARIES L’HEUREUX: In Loving Memory Of June Jean L’Heureux, born April 14, 1956 at North Battleford, SK., passed away April 26, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Left to mourn her passing and cherish her memory: her loving husband Claude, loving son Daniel, grandsons Daxton and Madax; loving son Brent (Patty), grandchildren Dayne and Hailey; loving son Brady (Amy). Brothers and sister, Edmund (Marcella) Pirot, Joe Pirot, Jim Pirot and Olive Pirot (Lloyd Edmunds), sister-in-law Ann and brother-in-law Melvin Rose. Brothers and sisters-in-law, John (Deb), Gilbert (Marnie), George (Gisele), Paul (Lorraine), Marie (Bernard Rowley), Rita (Vic Kappel), Lionel (Allyson) and Janine (Rob Leniuk). Special pet Cocoa and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Antoine and Jean Pirot, sister Dona Rose, brother Anthony and niece Cora Pirot; father and mother-in-law Henri and Antoinette L’Heureux. Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving For June’s Life was held on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from the Don Ross Centre Auditorium, North Battleford, SK with Officiant Deacon Ghislain Bellavance. Shared Family Memories were given by Lloyd Edmonds. Reading & Psalm: Gisele L’Heureux. Prayers of the Faithful: Aimee Edmonds. Urn Bearers were The Grandchildren: Daxton and Madax – Dayne and Hailey. Memorial Donations are requested to Battleford Union Hospital Foundation Inc., Box 1358, North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8 (Designated to the Palliative Care Unit )or to Saskatoon Cancer Patient Lodge, 20 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W1. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. __________________________________________________ Victor Alexander Kowalchuk 1927 – 2017 Few lived life as fully as Victor Kowalchuk. Innovator, storyteller, jokester, adventurer, sportsman, businessman, spouse, father, grand and great-grandfather.

A good friend to many. He was the youngest, and only son to William and Polly (Toporowski) of Whitkow, Sk. With 6 older sisters, Victor had the best lunches, was the best dressed, and best coifed. Early in life, “Slim” was an excellent student, worked the family farm and nurtured his love of animals. As a young teen, his sense of adventure took him to work in Ontario, and then Edmonton where he assisted the company building the Namao Airport. Alas, it was the green, green grass of home in Whitkow that led him back to the love of his life, Rosie Ewanchuk. Together they built their home, their farm and their family, welcoming 4 children and many well loved pets.

Here, Victor began his career in business with the Pioneer Grain Company Ltd., moving the family to Willingdon, then Winnipeg where he completed his career. It was here he achieved his life long goal of earning his pilot’s license at the age of 60. He retired to Willingdon, where he had a genuine commitment to community, serving in leadership roles of numerous organizations or committees, as counselor and mayor of Willingdon. He was humbled to learn others thought of him as a true gentleman, a man of honesty, courage with a positive nature built on integrity.

Victor lit up every room, approached every stranger, had endless jokes and the best stories that were profound and infectious. He wasn’t happy until you were happy. He shared a similar gift with animals, often described as an animal whisperer. His greatest achievement was his love of family, dedication to Rose for 65.5 years, Monica (Aubrey), Wes (Denise), Bernie (Keith), Janice, 12 grandchildren/spouses, 8 great-grandchildren, with 2 additions arriving this summer. He was well loved by numerous extended relatives. He was predeceased by his parents, 6 sisters and a brother in infancy. In his last year, Victor experienced the effects of cancer with clarity, grace, dignity and humour. He had a gift of putting everyone at ease citing “I’ve run out of spare parts.” At 90, he took his final flight on May 7th and we, his family, give special thanks to Dr. John Slanina and his office staff for the amazing care and devotion. A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial was held on Monday, May 15, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville with Fr. Greg Faryna officiating. Interment followed in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Victor’s name to an organization that supports your local community or a charity of your choice.

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. VEGREVILLE,780-603-5800 __________________________________________________

Horse Trailer 3 horse gooseneck - angle haul living quarters very nice condition 306-441-4754

LOST Stolen 2 horses from SE 1-4416W3 one Palimino mare and 1 sorrel gelding with blaze. Reward offered for information. Contact 780-217-1591 Richard

”Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

MISSING YOU...

Mom, Garret, Stephanie, Orville, Jessica and all of the family

OBITUARIES PRINCE: Maurice passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 10th 2017 surrounded by family at the age of 86 years. He leaves to cherish all the wonderful memories he made: children Paul Prince; Jacqueline (Gerard) Prince-Hauck, Suzanne Prince-Gette, Rita Prince, Roseanne (Mac) de Beaudrap, Jerome (Krista) Prince, Marcel (Roxanne) Prince and Collin (Sherry) Prince; 23 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers: Aime (Joan) Prince, Bernard (Louise) Prince, Brother Edouard Prince OMI; sisters: Charlotte Lancaster and Sister Madeleine Prince SASV; brother in-law Romuald Lavoie; sister in-law Betty Prince; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. Maurice is predeceased by his wife Frances Prince; daughter Carmen Prince; son Nicol Prince; son in-law Tony Lazarowich; parents Charles and Eva Prince; sisters: Sister Marie Jeanne Prince SASV, Francoise Lavoie and Gertrude Lavoie; brothers: Denis and Gilbert Prince; brothers in-law Micheal Lancaster and Henri Lavoie. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 18th 2017 at 1:00 pm from the Chapel of Sallows & McDonald-Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home, 1271 103rd Street, North Battleford, followed by a reception and fellowship at the Funeral Home.

Interment will take place after the reception at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford. Memorial donations in Maurice’s honor may be made to Ward 3, Battlefords District Care Centre, PO Box 69, Battleford, SK S0M 0E0. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at www.SallowsandMcDonald.com. Funeral arrangements for Maurice have been entrusted to the staff of Sallows and McDonald-Wilson and Zehner Funeral Home.

ACASTER: In Loving Memory of Constance Mary Acaster, born September 20, 1926 at Lloydminster, SK., passed away April 24, 2017 in Edam, SK. Survived by her loving Children, Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren: David (Dianne) & family: Bryan (Erin) - Mia, Lauren; Shauntel (Ojee) Logan - Deacon; Tyler; Randi (Jaret) Piller; Jacquelyn; Edith (Chris) Shewchuk & family: Cassandra (Donald) Vivian - Hailey, Isabel; Amanda (Skyler) Jones - Zoë, Violet; Christopher (Stephanie); Rebecca (Richard) May; Dean (Patti) - Kaitlyn, Corey; John. By her brothers: John (Irene) Knowlson; Raymond Knowlson; Brother-in-law, David Acaster; Numerous nieces, nephews and their families. Predeceased by her parents, Ernest & Edith Knowlson; husband Walter; sister-in-law, Meriel Knowlson; Walter’s parents: John & Florence Acaster; Walter’s siblings: Fanny (Gordon) Maddill, George (Agnes), Margaret (Jack) Cubbon, Arthur (Ruth), Jessie (Tom) Horrell, Catherine (Henry) Puff, Douglas & Frederick. Service Of Celebration And Thanksgiving was held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. from Battleford United Church, Battleford, SK with Minister Rev. Gayle Wensley. Eulogy was given by Grandchildren of Constance. Music Ministry: Mrs. M. Junice Headley - Organist/Pianist; Battleford United Church Choir & Friends; Robert MacKay - Soloist: ‘In The Garden’; Hymn Selections: All Things Bright & Beautiful & In The Bulb There Is A Flower. Honourary Pallbearers were All who shared Constance’s life. Memorials are requested to The Lung Association or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Interment was at Garden Of Devotion - Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, North Battleford, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________

newsoptimist.ca

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A cherished smile, a heart of gold.

To the dearest Mom a world could hold.

Happy memories, fond and true.

From us who thought the world of you.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649-1405 for details.

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.

Love Mike, Chris, John, Sue, Cathy

FOR SALE - MISC

GARAGE SALES Estate/Garage Sale – 112 Riverbend Crescent, Battleford Thursday, May 18 & Friday, May 19 (12pm-8pm) Everything must go (furniture, tools, sporting goods, kitchenware, misc. items)

REACH OVER 500,000 Saskatchewan Readers Each Week!

Blanket Classifieds are carried in 72 community newspapers, which reach over 450 communities including 14 cities.

Every Item $1.00 Few Select Items $5.00 Scholastic Reading Books, Toys, Sports Equipment, Wii and Xbox 360 Games, Pokemon Cards and Clothes!

Friday May 19, 4-7pm Saturday May 20, 8-4pm 2522 Bluejay Cres North Battleford

WANTED Buying shed antler and racks, and old traps. Call Phil 306-278-2299.

P: 306-649-1405 E: classifieds@swna.com W: www.swna.com The Strength is in Community Newspapers!

OBITUARIES WALLACE: Allan “Dale” passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 25th at the age of 72, with his wife, Sylvia, by his side. He was born on September 28, 1944 in Wilkie, Sk. Dale is survived by his loving wife Sylvia of 47 years, Daughter Bonnie (Patrick) Guimond and children Kayla, Renee and Matthieu; Son Scott and children Katherine, William and Sarah-Jane; Daughter Andrea (Jason) Wirachowsky and children Emersyn and Alex; Sister, Sharon Nixon; Brother, Brian (Eileen) Wallace; along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Jennie Wallace; brother-in-law Richard Nixon; and nephew, Ricky Nixon. Special thanks to Dr. Dunhin, nursing staff, and C.O.P.S. at BUH; Dr. Iqbal and staff at Saskatoon Cancer Centre, family and friends who visited while in the hospital, Pastor Dan Glass for officiating the celebration, and Aaron McNabb for the wonderful guitar music. A Celebration of Dale’s Life was held April 29th, 2017 at the Wildlife Federation Centre in North Battleford. In remembrance of Dale, donations may be made to the Saskatoon Cancer Centre or Ronald McDonald House. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________

FUNERAL SERVICES

Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium 2741 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK 306-445-7570

Trevor Watts - Director/Owner

The Battlefords only Locally Owned Funeral Provider

“The only crematorium in the Battlefords area” Traditional Casket Burial and Cremation Services Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion Counsellor for Bronze and Granite Memorials Free pre-planning guides available, assistance with pre-planning services

www. eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 15

LIVESTOCK

MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE

Black and Red Yearling and 2yr. old Angus Bulls on moderate growing ration - performance info available. Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards.

Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK. Phone 306-441-0946 or 306-3424407. www.valleyhillsangus.com Purebred Gelbvieh bulls red and black yearlings. Barry Davisson 306-228-7793

HOUSES FOR SALE Affordable 3 bedroom home available in Buchanan, SK with finished basement, attached 2 car garage and large storage shop on 1/2 acre. $84000. ComFree listing #635676. Call owner 306-5719297.

LAND FOR SALE 67 acres in North Battleford, Brada rd next to Rocky view estates. 2 good water wells with water tests, fenced and cross fenced set up for horses. Large insulated shop with in slab water heat 54 x 36-, cabin on property. Cultivated acres to west. Call 1-780-217-1591

FARMLAND WANTED NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES North - 10 1/4’s North East - 14 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 57 1/4’s West - 50 1/4’s Central - 219 1/4’s South - 100 1/4’s South East - 46 1/4’s South West - 65 1/4’s PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE

CANADIAN MANUFACTURED MODULAR HOMES -multi section, single section, lake houses, and duplex family units LARGE INVENTORY TO CHOOSE FROM OR FACTORY ORDER TO YOUR SPECIFICATIONS Selling and Servicing Across Western Canada for Over 40 Years!

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

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

ROOMS Windsor Hotel Newly Renovated Rooms for Rent.

Includes Kitchen, Bathroom and 1 Bedroom. No Pets, No Smoking.

Call 306-937-2361

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

Fences & Decks 306-481-2836 Will do rototilling at reasonable rates. Call 441-7579

FEED & SEED

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

Custom Orders Welcome We sell & service homes across Western Canada, On Site Consultation.

Weekend calls Personalized Service

D I R E C T O R Y

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Suzanne L. Odishaw, CPA, CA Jacques la Cock, CPA, CA Derek Sieben, CPA, CA Stephen Mann, CPA, CA

Let Us Help You Keep Your Business Rolling!

PLACE YOUR AD ON THIS PAGE

CALL 306-445-7261

Fax: 306-445-1977 Email: newsoptimist.sales@sasktel.net

STEEL BUILDING SALE ...”MEGA MADNESS SALE!” 20X23 $5,780.

25X25 $6,312. 30X31 $8,175.

33X35 $9,407. One End Wall Included. Check Out www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-212-7036

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Forsyth Hauling 2010 Ltd. requires CLASS 1A TRUCK DRIVERS. We offer: ° Industry leading wages ° Defined work schedules ° Benefits plan Applicants must have: ° Previous oilfield hauling experience ° Valid class 1 license ° Clean drivers abstract ° Hold Current Safety Tickets

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have April 17,2017 work at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program.

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CLASS 1A & 3A TRUCK DRIVERS REQUIRED to operate semi vacs and straight vacs in SE Sask.

Full or part time positions available.

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Resume’s and work references to: Competition Environmental Ltd. PO Box 609 Carnduff, SK. S0C 0S0 Email : competition@ sasktel.net Office : 306-482-3558 Fax : 306-482-3574 Charlie : 306-482-7897 Greg : 306-485-7833

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Choose LOCAL information as their main reason for reading (editorial,news, sports, entertainment, events)

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CALL ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

REPORTER/ PHOTOGRAPHER BATTLEFORDS PUBLISHING has an opening for a

FULL-TIME REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER DO YOU ENJOY...

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Chartered Professional Accountants

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

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APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT 2 Bedroom Apartment for rent in Battleford, mature quiet working adults, no pets, no children, no smoking, reference required.

Phone 445-2943

Single wide, Multi Sections, Lake House, Motel Units

HWY #16 West of Yorkton (Sheho, SK.)

NORTH EAST PRAIRIE GRAIN INC. Currently Buying: Soybeans, Feed Wheat, Barley, Oats & Spring Thrashed Grain. OFFERING: Competitive Prices, On Farm Pickup & Prompt Payment! CALL: 1-306-873-3551, WEBSITE: neprairiegrain.com

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

Canadian built by MODULINE Elite Price Event on NOW!

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

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Yellowhead Modular Home Sales 960 sqft 2 bedroom 2 bath $79,900 1216 sqft 3 bedroom 2 bath $89,900 1520 sqft 3 or 4 bedroom 2 bath $109,900

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The successful candidate will be responsible for coverage of local and regional news and events for a twice-weekly newspaper.

Main areas of coverage include arts and entertainment, education, Battleford town council and other areas, as assigned.

A digital camera is supplied.

A reliable vehicle is a must.

Flexible hours are also a component of news reporting.

Interested candidates should send a resumé & cover letter to: Becky Doig, Editor Battlefords News-Optimist Box 1029, North Battleford, SK S9A 3E6 Email: newsoptimist.editor@sasktel.net Email inquiries are welcome.

NO PHONE INQUIRIES PLEASE Short listed candidates will be contacted.

PAGE 16 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Support for the Food Bank

Submitted by Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Empty Stocking Fund and the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre, are photos from a recent food drive that Walmart held for the food bank. Katerynych says, “The reason I wanted to highlight this is because Walmart here in North Battleford sends hundreds of pounds of food and product to the food bank on a weekly basis. Because of the products that Walmart sends us we are able to now offer meat and dairy with our hampers, something we had not been able to supply on a regular basis.” Photos submitted

Sask Book Pick

The Magnificent Nahanni: The Struggle to Protect a Wild Place “The Magnificent Nahanni: The Struggle to Protect a Wild Place”

by Gordon Nelson Published by University of Regina Press Review by Keith Foster $34.95 ISBN 978-0-88977-460-5 Can man and nature issues Gordon Nelson adlive in harmony? Can they dresses in The Magnifieven co-exist? These are cent Nahanni: The Strug-

gle to Protect a Wild Place.

Nahanni National Park Reserve, located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, is indeed impressive. Nelson describes a magical place with cliffs, canyons, caves, and a waterfall even higher than Niagara Falls.

This is a place where wildlife predominates – bright flowers, butterflies and birds, caribou and wolf.

The Nahanni River itself “stands out among northern rivers, not because of its size but because of its unique grandeur and rich

COMING EVENTS

Wednesdays, May 10, 17 & 24

ARC Attack Art Evenings - join us for an evening of making art at ARC Creative Studios, 1102 - 101st Street from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. All supplies & instruction are included. Also Friday & Saturday afternoons from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. or by emailing arccreativestudios@gmail.com.

Thursdays, May 11 - 25

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

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

Saturday, May 20

Visit our website

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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, May 10 - May 31

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

Fridays, May 12 - May 26

Tales and More at the North Battleford Library, 1392-101st St., North Battleford at 10:45-11:30 a.m. Come and enjoy 45 minutes of stories, rhymes and finger plays. For ages 3 to 5 years.

Tuesday May 9, 16 & 23

Heart to Heart is a Heart and Stroke Foundation program, working in partnership with Prairie North Health Region to offer cardiac patient and their partners the answers to their questions about heart health. Patients learn about coping with health programs, making healthy eating choices, the role of exercise in heart health and how to manage stress at the Primary Health Center from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. To find out more or to register, call Michele at 306-446-6404 or email Michele.grasby@pnrha.ca. Please leave a daytime phone number if leaving a message.

Banner Day - Prayer Flags, Spring Flags, Flags of celebration and gratitude - come and create a single flag or a string of personal art flags for your yard or home. We will utilize a variety of materials and techniques to bring your flags to life and let your art spirit ride the wind, These Free workshops run from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m., all supplies included. Everyone welcome but must pre-register at the NB Library.

natural diversity,” he says.

In 1976 the federal government approved a small Nahanni National Park Reserve. When Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, himself a wild river enthusiast, viewed the plans for the first phase, he questioned why the proposed area was so small. Nelson also wonders why Parks Canada didn’t propose a much larger reserve.

In 2009, federal legislation expanded the size of the park six-fold and incorporated First Nations’ hunting rights. Nelson argues that more needs to be done, such as curtailing the mining industry in the reserve.

The Magnificent Na-

hanni: The Struggle to Protect a Wild Place includes an index, bibliography, endnotes, a note on sources, numerous maps, and two appendices. One appendix provides a timeline for the protection of the Nahanni and the other is a list of traditional place names in the Dene language.

Nelson believes that conservation, recreation, tourism, and Indigenous ways of life are all intertwined and interdependent. If the powers-that-be listen to and follow his advice, man and nature may indeed not only co-exist but live together harmoniously now and into the future.

Friday, May 26

Spring Fling Supper - Legion Hall, 262 - 22nd Street, Battleford.

Happy hour starts at 4:30 p.m. Call 306-446-1983 for more info.

Saturday, May 27

Topline Social Dance Club, Leon Ochs at 1352-100th Street, North Battleford, Royal Canadian Legion Hall from 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Lunch served. Min. age 19. Dress casual. Contact Sharon 306-4460446, Leela 306-445-7240, Jean 306-445-8815.

Sunday, May 28

Saskatchewan Blue Cross MS Walk at Lawrence Elementary, 1942102nd St., North Battleford. Starts at 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. This event is the MS Society of Canada’s largest pledge-based fundraising initiative. Contact Rebecca Button at 306-244-2114.

Wednesday, May 31

Rai & Randy Smith - Catch The Country Spirit at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1302 - 99th Street, North Battleford at 1:30 p.m.

Silver collection. Coffee & dainties to follow show. Visit us at www. randyandrai.com or www.facebook.com/RandyandRai.

Saturday, June 3

Battlefords 2017 Race For Kids Fundraiser at 10:00 a.m. Teams of four fundraise and gather pledges to support the local club up until race day in hopes of becoming the top fundraiser (who will receive a WestJet voucher for two valued at $2,500) Teams then compete to find and complete 10 different checkpoints located all around the community. Race for kids is the perfect combination of Minute to Win It and the Amazing Race.

Volunteers and Teams needed. Visit www.raceforkids.ca to register.

Contact our office for sponsorship opportunities 306-445-0002.

Saturday & Sunday, August 5 & 6

Paynton History Book Launch - RSVP for Paynton History Book Launch by March 31 or to preorder books or CD’s contact Enola Valliere 306-895-4303 or Marie Ferguson 306-895-4825, or payntonhistorybook @outlook.com. Saturday Performance - 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Saturday Supper/Social 6:00 p.m. Sunday Pancake Breakfast 9:30 a.m.

This section, which will appear weekly in Tuesday's News-Optimist and Thursday’s Regional Optimist, is provided free-of-charge to non-profit organizations.

To list the Community Calendar please call News-Optimist at 306-445-7261 or fax the information to 306-445-3223. Please provide complete information including event, time, date and location. Although we will do our utmost to make sure your event appears in this section, News-Optimist does not guarantee all submissions will appear.

Deadline for submissions is 5:00 p.m. Thursday prior for Tuesday's & Thursday’s publication.

The Magnificent Nahanni: The Struggle to Protect a Wild Place book is available at your local bookstore or from www.skbooks.com.

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 17

PUZZLE NO. 757 20. Brought on board sale of land (3 wds) 22. Daughter of Saturn 42. Halo, e.g.

23. Process restricted to 43. Charms used in an Afdiscontinuous time se- rican sorcery belief quences 44. Influenza 26. “Chicago” lyricist 47. “... ___ he drove out of 29. Absorbed, as a cost sight” 30. Grassland 48. Charge 31. Clothing 51. Ground cover 33. Perfumes 52. Tools can be _____36. Face-to-face exam _______ 37. One who facilitates the 56. Forming a basis 57. Void 58. To withdraw money from use 63. Honey 64. Come to mind 65. “... happily ___ after” 66. Building additions Copyright © 2015, Penny Press 67. Verb with thou 28.Take find ACROSS 68. Big gameit Catalogue available from: Speargrass on the ____ 1.Specialties Judge’s 55.Dogs and 69.

Attends Box 298, Eatonia, Sk., S0L 0Y0 Phone: (306) 967‐2910

Across 1. “The Sound of Music” backdrop 5. Kennel cry 9. Book of maps 14. Attack, with “into” 15. Sundae topper, perhaps 16. Glove material 17. Certain surgeon’s “patient” 18. Property of being alluring

10.Zilch 11.Snow coaster 19.Cut one’s molars 21.Spiders’ structures 22.Angel’s headgear 23.Like some cheese 25.Song 28.Commits perjury 29.Skilled 30.Army eatery

33.Aretha Franklin hit 36.Snare 37.Bar 39.Trait carriers 41.Turn over quickly 42.Camp helper, e.g.

43.Foal 45.Prayer concluder 49.Brewery beverage 50.Prosecute 51.Wish

concern 31.Made holy cats 5. Signal assent 32.Clan 56.Fountain Down 8. Has ____ 34.Turf ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 757 1. Respiration disorder 12.Draft animals 35.Stags and 57.Young adult 2.

Rodeo rope bucks 13.Hot temper 3. Capital the Missouri 38.Footonparts 14.Moderately DOWN 4.

Aerodynamic cold 1. Shy 39.Polite chap constrictor 15.Decade unit5. ___ 2. Woodsman’s 40.Winding 6. jealous mistress”: The ancient Greeks believed death occurred when the implement 16.Short-term job “A curves soul left the body. The concept of soul endures to this day 41.Coin side 3. Caribbean, 17.Pine ____ Emerson 7. To44.Hobo vomit as the mysterious force that animates the human18.Alternate body. I e.g. am a very old man. I am not afraid to think of departing 46.MGM’s setting4. Registers 20.Got the best8. “M*A*S*H” 9. Rise trademark souls. Unless death comes through suicide, no human 5. Close, once of be10. Sounds reproof 6. Adjustardo 47.Glassofpart ing can know the time and place of his death. I hope my to da Vinci’s Vitruvian 21.Largest Island” propsurroundings Man mammal 11. “Fantasy 48.Effortless soul will depart in a moment of infinite peace. I would “Much ___ About Bone-dry 7. Unit of39. heat 24.Close like to be in my garden when it happens, watching flower 12. 52.Resting 40. All ___ 8. Happen 26.Bald bird Nothing” 53.Act like buds begin to blossom. Or in a church where there are no CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS 13. Clinton, e.g.: Abbr.9. Dates 41. Up, in a AMERICAN way USE SPELLING 54.Detective’s empty pews and where I have just sung The Holy27.Half City. of Ortwenty

A troubled soul

on an open stage where I have sung old songs within view of one of the broad fields of the Saskatchewan prairie I know and love so well.

I think I was born with an old soul, one which in times past has animated the body of a caring human being. I am troubled in my soul by the falling away from religious beliefs, although I have almost accepted the Christian festival of Christmas has become a cultural observance characterized by unrestrained spending and gift giving.

What I cannot accept is the trivialization of Christmas.

The Christmas fare being sold by the entertainment industry ranges from disrespectful to mawkish to ignorant. It is the right of every citizen to disbelieve, but those who do not accept the Biblical account of the virgin birth, a sinless life and the resurrection after death cannot deny the reality of the historic Jesus.

He was born in Bethlehem because his mother was commanded to be there by Roman census takers. He became an itinerant preacher, guilty of no crime, whose execution was, in fact, a judicial murder. The desire for his death, originated among the Pharisees in the temple in Jerusalem who accused him of blasphemy and sent him to be tried by Herod Antipas, the Roman puppet who governed Galilee. Herod would offend neither the Jewish establishment nor his Roman masters. He sent Jesus to be judged by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Jerusalem. Jesus was found guilty of sedition and was sentenced to death. None of this historic account is trivial.

Crucifixion is not trivial. It is a brutal form of execution, which, by law, was never suffered by Roman citizens except proven traitors. Jesus was a Jew. He was whipped into a bloody ruin with a flagellum, a whip tipped with metal barbs. He was made to wear a cap of thorns and to carry a beam of the cross on which he would die to the hill of Calvary. At the hill of execution he was nailed through his wrists and heels to the cross on which he died in agony. None of this is trivial.

The brutality of this form of execution was a weapon the Roman Empire used to control the nationalists in conquered territories who threatened to revolt. In spite of Jesus being numbered among the revolutionaries, his blameless life and cruel death brought about the founding of a new religion. Religious beliefs everywhere deal with the concept of a soul that animates the living and survives after death. This is not trivial. Non-believers should avoid being disrespectful. They should understand that religions, perversions of religions and conflicts between religions have shaped the history of humankind. Those who cannot approve of any religion should respect all religions.

In the recent presidential election in the United States, the political contestants and their minions wallowed in disrespect. The only belief that seemed sacred to all was their constitution, which, among other things, boasts of the guarantee of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

My old soul tells me that happiness need not be pursued.

It tells me that any human being who places a duty to the human race above personal pleasure will find that happiness comes unbidden. In respecting all that is worthy of respect, duty itself becomes happiness.

19. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g.

21. Dolce (Italian) 24. Flashed signs 25. “The Faerie Queene” division 26. Cork’s country 27. Breakfast staple 28. Boxing prize 32. Clothing 33. High-five, e.g.

34. Bar bill 35. Animal in a roundup 37. From ___ to riches 38. Coin featuring Leon-

45. Krypton, e.g.

46. “___ on Down the Road” 48. Big ending 49. Allow 50. Exit 53. Restrained 54. Antipasto morsel 55. Feelings 56. Big cheese 58. Code word 59. Victorian, for one 60. ___-Atlantic 61. #26 of 26 62. “To ___ is human ...”

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PAGE 18 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Gathering together to celebrate God’s love The Battle Cry of Freedom was one of the most popular songs in the North, during the American Civil War. It called one and all to “rally round the flag,” fighting to support the union of the States, and an end to slavery (“Although they may be poor, not a man shall be a slave”).

In every Union encampment, the men were singing it. And printing it kept 14 printing presses going, until nearly a million copies had flooded the land.

The song was written in 1862 by George Frederick Root (1820-95), a music teacher, organist, and composer. A committed Christian and hymn writer, Mr. Root’s name is in many of our hymnbooks, too.

But it is not Root’s song we’ll look at now, but rather the concept it expresses.

In the heat of battle, the call to “rally round the flag” can draw beleaguered troops together, and rouse them to renewed and vigorous action. Fans rallying to support their favourite team for a critical game can fill stadiums or arenas, as sometimes supporters of a political candidate can. There are even more noble examples of rallying to consider.

In 1980, athlete and

activist Terry Fox, who’d had one leg amputated due to cancer, decided to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. His goal was to raise a dollar for each of Canada’s 24 million people (the population at the time).

From the east coast, he ran across the land, incredibly covering the distance of a marathon each day.

Sadly, at Thunder Bay, Ont., Terry was forced to stop the run as the cancer had spread to his lungs.

Some months later, he died. But was that the end of the story?

No! Since 1981, the annual Terry Fox Run has involved multitudes of Canadians, and it’s being held in 60 other countries too, raising over $650 million. That is rallying round the flag!

In Christian experience there’s a rallying that takes place Sunday after Sunday in our churches.

The people of God come together to worship and praise Him, and to hear the proclamation of His Word.

One of our most revitalizing themes is the love of God, the love that moved the Father to send the Son of God to the cross, to take the punishment for our sins.

“For God so loved the

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

world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (Jn. 3:16) That act of love is made personal when we trust in Christ as our Saviour. As

the Apostle Paul put it, “the Son of God ... loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Gal. 2:20) That is the theme of a song whose authorship is uncertain, though it’s credited to various ones

Day by day It’s been that kind of spring: sun and cloud today, rain yesterday and forecast again for tomorrow. Across our country flooding has reached emergency proportions and out here, at least, even when the sun does shine, it’s accompanied by a nippy breeze.

For whatever reason, the seasons seem confused as to when they are supposed to begin and end.

In order to avoid a litany of my feelings on the matter, however, I decided to gather a few pertinent quotes. I’ll start

in our hymnbooks. It’s a call to believers to rally together and unite in songs of praise for God’s wonderful love.

“Come, let us all unite to sing: God is love! / Let heav’n and earth their praises bring: God is love! / Let every soul from sin awake, / Let every heart sweet music make, And sing with us for Jesus’ sake: God is love! / O tell to earth’s remotest bound: God is love! / In Christ we have redemption found: God is love! / His blood has washed our sins away, / His Spirit turned our

has never danced in the rain.”

Then there’s this wise quote attributed to Saint Basil: “Many a man curses the rain that falls upon his head, and knows not that it brings abundance to drive away the hunger.”

Right on, Saint Basil.

Not only can the weather with one by Lew Schnei- adversely affect our (at der: “We use a really least my) attitudes, diffistrong sun-block when cult times of any sort can we go to the beach with dampen our spirits and the kids. It’s SPF 80: You result in a sense of gloom squeeze the tube, and a when we forget that God sweater comes out.” never leaves us, no matHere’s another from ter what the forecast or an anonymous source: the circumstances.

“Anyone who says sunJames, the half-brothshine brings happiness er of Jesus, wrote a letter

night to day, / And now we can rejoice to say: God is love!

There will be a great rally of the saints in eternity too, praising “Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood” (Rev. 1:5). As the present song puts it: “In [heaven] we will sing again: God is love! / And this shall be our loudest strain: God is love! / Whilst endless ages roll along, / We’ll triumph with the heavenly throng / And this shall be our sweetest song: God is love!”

to fellow believers in which he pointed out the value that can come from trials and afflictions if we view them with a right attitude.

“Count it all joy when you fall into various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience [endurance or perseverance].”

James 1:2,3 Are bad things suddenly turned into good things? No, but as we look to the Lord for His strength and comfort, we will find ourselves stronger and increasingly able to reap greater abundance of spiritual nourishment.

Tuesday, May 16, 2017 - PAGE 19

Growing your own There are more and more people wishing to grow their own food and make our world a more sustainable place to live.

The wish to produce our own food with out pesticides has increased the interest in organic gardening. This is coupled with the ever-rising costs of fossil fuels that help to drive up the costs of those foods we enjoy consuming that need to be imported to our local markets. You might ask what an organic garden is. Is it creating a healthy ecosystem and help to strengthen the connections between all living things?

We would all likely agree that it is the process of growing fruits, vegetables and ornamentals in a more natural way without man-made inputs. The ac-

Hanbidge on Horticulture

by Patricia Hanbidge

Saskatoon School of Horticulture ceptance of those inputs is where the definition of organic differs. Soil building and conservation as well as the preservation of heritage species is another understanding of what is necessary to be an organic gardener.

How you personally choose to be organic might be different than your friends or fellow gardeners. However, one of the

first steps is to ensure your soil is healthy and able to support the growth of the plants you choose to grow.

Some easy ways to improve your soil is to add organic matter. Any kind of organic matter is good but if you have compost that is a great choice. Compost adds not only the organic matter but also a host of nutrients. In order to have long-term soil health

Picturesque

The wish to produce our own food with out pesticides has increased the interest in organic gardening. Photo by Patricia Hanbidge

and to manage your soil you need to keep th nutrient levels at a satisfactory level. If you need to add additional fertilization in addition to your organic matter source use organic fertilizer that contains the macronutrients needed for plant growth. Those macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) are needed by the plants in large doses. You can rely on your compost to supply the host of micronutrients that the plants need.

To ensure that pest problems stay under control, try to practice good “cropping” techniques.

Use crop rotations to ensure that similar crops are not grown in the same place year after year. This rotation will naturally help control pest and disease problems. Observe your garden continuously to be sure to catch any kind of infestation quickly. Most often if you catch a problem when it is still relatively small, the treatment is less intensive and more successful.

When you are deciding what to plant consider planting those vegetables that you will enjoy eating.

Do you like to have fresh

greens or herbs? Do you wish to be able to eat products that are not readily available in your favourite market? Do a bit of planning and utilize the space that you have optimally.

The concept of dense plantings is not new but definitely works. If you are new to high density plantings you simply plant vegetables close together in wide beds. This minimizes the amount of space needed for paths between the rows. Interplant species that have different needs and different lengths of time until maturity. For example, plant vine crops underneath your stand of corn. Try planting lettuce or other fresh greens close to carrots. Once the lettuce is finished it leaves room for the carrots to have a larger space in which to complete their growth.

These are only a few guidelines that you can begin to think about as you are planning the food you plan to grow this year.

Happy gardening!

Hanbidge is a horticulturist with the Saskatoon School of Horticulture and can be reached at 306-931-GROW(4769); by email at growyourfuture@

gmail.com or check out our website at www.saskhort.com Register now for distance courses leading to a diploma or a certificate.

Study with us or study in the comfort of your own home! Please contact us for further information or visit our website at saskhort.com Let our team of experts help you to create the outdoor living area of your dreams. Our team of educated and skilled experts can build or renovate your new or existing landscape.

Including decks; gazebos; sunrooms; solariums; retaining walls; fences; irrigations systems; and regular maintenance.

Target Certificate in Horticulture Program … learn from the comfort of your home and gain the skills and education to work in the field of horticulture. Graduates from SSH are recognized by the industry as superb additions to help their horticultural business grow!

Like us on facebook at Saskatoon School of Horticulture and get in on all the events coming up and follow us on twitter @horticulturepat.

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