News-Optimist October 3 by Battlefords News Optimist

News

101st completion date pushed to Oct. 16

Solving the mystery of a found item

Politics

Sports

Everybody Has a Story

Gord Wyant latest to visit

Friedrich wins silver medal

7 Yards of Care Kids help kids

Check us out online at

www.newsoptimist.ca NE RYO

@BfordsNewsOpt

NEE

EVE

rd o f e tl

Bat e Th

07 7 6 5om

-4 6 0 3

.luk ww

ing

b lum

Volume 110 No. 9

North Battleford, Sask.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Lloydminster man charged after fatal crash Staff The individual charged in connection to the deaths of three people in a Highway 16 accident near Lloydminster Sept. 22 remains in custody with his next court appearance set

for Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. Brandon Stucka, 26, of Lloydminster, faces multiple charges including criminal negligence causing death, criminal negligence causing bodily harm, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing

death, and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm, among several others. Stucka appeared Thursday and again Monday in North Battleford provincial court by closed-

circuit television from Saskatoon Correctional Centre. The Thursday court date was Stucka’s first appearance on the criminal negligence and dangerous operation charges, but there had also been two

prior North Battleford court dates during the week on other charges, which include breach of undertaking charges as well as possession of property obtained by crime. Stucka is being represented by Hasaan

Jomha, an Edmonton criminal lawyer. North Battleford lawyer Monte Migneault appeared as agent for Jomha in court Thursday and requested the adjournment to Monday, and Monday’s agent for Jomha was Brent Little.

Party Time ARC Creative Studios held a relaunch party Friday with musical guests Raven She Hollers, a bluegrass/roots ensemble, performing a short program. ARC Creative Studios has relocated from its original location on the street level entry beside the Bank of Nova Scotia in North Battleford to the upper floor above the old location which has given the artists more space to work and host artist exhibitions. See the story in Thursday’s Regional Optimist. Photo by Josh Greschner

I CM TREE SERVICE + PLUS

• Certified Arborist • Ticketed Tree Climbers • Tree Removal • Firewood & Wood Chips • Stump Grinding • Tree Chipping • Liability Insurance

60’ Boom Truck

Do You d? Stump Grin

Call us today

YES WE DO!

306•386•7259

PAGE 2 - Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Gord Wyant campaigns in the Northwest By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The Northwest region continues to be a popular stop for those seeking the Saskatchewan Party leadership. This week it was Gord Wyant’s turn to seek votes in the Battlefords and surrounding area. He was in the region in conjunction with some SUMA regional meetings going on not far away. Wyant, whose cabinet experience includes a lengthy period as minister of justice and attorneygeneral under Premier Brad Wall, and whose experience includes time as a school trustee and city councillor as well as a legal career, reiterated the familiar themes of his campaign when meeting with the News-Optimist on Thursday. Those themes have included a heavy emphasis on his call for party renewal. “The premier’s given our party quite an opportunity for renewal,” said Wy-

ant of Premier Brad Wall’s decision to retire. A key message of his campaign, said Wyant, is to “get out to the people of Saskatchewan – individuals, businesses, stakeholders, organizations like SARM and SUMA – to listen to what they have to say. I think as part of renewal, a key part of renewal is listening to people, and by listening to people we’ll be able do a better job in formulating policies that affect the very people that they’re intended to affect. “So listening is the key; getting out and talking to people is an important part of that renewal, and that’s what we’re going to do. I made a personal commitment that I was going to get to each constituency at least once during this campaign, and over five months we’ll have an opportunity to do that. So I’m looking forward to those continued discussions.” As for his attendance at the recent SUMA meetings, Wyant said that among the issues raised

from those municipal leaders is the need for infrastructure, particularly in “small-urban Saskatchewan.” “They want to know that their government is responsive to their need,” said Wyant. The other thing he is hearing, he said, is a desire to “rebuild a relationship with the government to open up further dialogues with respect to funding opportunities, and how we’re going to deal with some of these infrastructure issues.” Wyant also said he is committed to maintaining the municipal funding formula at one percent of PST. He believes the government has a good relationship with SUMA, but admitted the last provincial budget was “a little problematic for some municipalities.” He believes more discussion will “go a long way towards healing any issues that we have with municipalities.” As for his campaign platform, Wyant said he

NDP caucus holds retreat at Jackfish Lake By John Cairns Staff Reporter

There were plenty of MLAs from the New Democratic Party in the local area this past week. They were in Jackfish Lake Sept. 27-28, holding their annual caucus retreat at Jackfish Lodge. For the NDP caucus, it was a “time to take a step back, gather, focus on issues and strategy for the next year, in particular moving into our fall and spring session,” said interim NDP leader Nicole

Sarauer. “It’s a great opportunity for us all to, after a summer of outreach throughout all four corners of the province, to get together, share the information we’ve learned, share that knowledge, figure out how we best serve the people of Saskatchewan and strategize on the work that will be done in the next year.” The retreat comes shortly after a recent boost in the caucus ranks, with Vicki Mowat joining those ranks following her win in Saskatoon Fairview by-

election three weeks earlier. That brings to 12 the number of NDP MLAs, something much welcomed by the interim leader, who took over her new role earlier in the summer. “It’s great,’ said Sarauer. “We’re working really hard at 10, holding the government to account, at 11 it was even better and now at 12 we can do more of the work that we have already been doing, doing that outreach work,” she said. Continued on Page 5

plans to roll out his full policy statement within the next week or so – something he believes will generate a great deal of interest. But a couple of his major policy planks have already been released during the past couple of weeks. One is his pledge for the Saskatchewan Party to hold annual policy conventions, “so that we hear on a regular and consistent basis from the grassroots on what they’re thinking from a policy development perspective.” The other has been Wyant’s call for a full inquiry into the Global Transportation Hub. “I think there’s a cloud hanging over our party, over our government, about that issue,” said Wyant. “I think the sooner we clear the air on that issue, the better. I think that that’s best done through a public inquiry and as soon as the police, the RCMP, have finished their investigation and report, that’s the time to give serious consideration to the timing of an inquiry. We would want to see the Chief Commissioner have the power of subpoena, have the power to compel witnesses and testimony and documents, so that we can clear the air.” As minister of justice and attorney general, Wyant brought in the recent rural crime initiatives recommended by the caucus committee chaired by Battlefords MLA Herb Cox. He pledges to continue to find solutions to deal with the crime rates, as well as in dealing with the issue of illegal drugs. “Issues like drugs, like crystal meth and fentanyl – that’s what’s driving the crime rate in this province,” said Wyant. He adds that “aggressive steps” were needed to curb that use across the country. Wyant also answered questions on another issue:

Gord Wyant, one of five candidates in the running for the leadership of the Saskatchewan Party, met with the News-Optimist Thursday afternoon. Photo by John Cairns

his former ties to the federal Liberals and the reasons behind his announcement that he was sending back his federal Liberal membership. He made the move, he said, to make clear his loyalties were to the province and the Sask Party, and not to the federal Liberals. “My sense of it was as we started off on this campaign that there was a feeling among people that my membership in the Liberal Party was somehow some affiliation,” said Wyant. He said he needed to end any confusion. “My first attention, my first priority, is to the people of this province, and the interests of Saskatchewan, and not the interests of a federal party. That was the reason I did it, and I think it was the right thing to do, so that the people of this province have a full and complete understanding of where my loyalties are, and they are to the people of this province.” By extension, Wyant has said he is committed to standing up to the federal government on issues such as a national carbon tax, which he says will make it

very difficult for the Saskatchewan economy. “We’re going to stand up, we’re going to continue to stand up to issues like a carbon tax,” said Wyant. But he adds that “we have to pay attention to some of the challenges around emissions,” reiterating his support of initiatives such as the commitment to a 40-percent reduction in emissions at SaskPower by 2030. Wyant looks forward to taking part in the upcoming candidates’ debates including in North Battleford Nov. 16, and plans an active campaign until the leadership vote on Jan. 27. “We’re going to continue to tour around the province and listen to people,” said Wyant. He calls this race a “unique opportunity” to pick not only the next leader, but the next premier. “This is about the future of Saskatchewan, and so this is a very, very important discussion that we’re having now, a very important conversation. And so it’s going to be very interesting over the next four months left until the date the decision is made.”

THEY COME FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE TO BRING THE WORLD TO YOUR DOORSTEP We thank our distributors and newspaper carriers for their service and dedication to our customers.

RIDDIM BT Portable Audio System

October 7 is International Carrier Appreciation Day. If you have the opportunity, please take a moment to recognize your carrier, either in person or with a note of thanks.

SALE

$129 306-445-8819

WWW.SOUNDCITYAVU.CA

#nationalnewspaperweek

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 - PAGE 3

New date for downtown roadwork Oct. 16 Staff

City officials say a number of small factors have pushed back completion of the downtown roads and sidewalk reconstruction project by a week. Oct. 16 is now the end date for the work on 101st Street between 11th and 12th Avenue, and 12th Avenue from 100th Street to 102nd Street. According to a city news release, concrete curb work and street light installation will be complete this week with paving stone work continuing on 12th Avenue in the coming weeks. Paving, sign and fixture installation, crosswalk construction, tree plant-

ing and line painting are planned for next week. Sections of the sidewalk on 101st Street are open again to pedestrian traffic while the work continues, but 101st Street will remain closed to vehicle traffic until completion. Also, 12th Avenue between 100th and 102nd streets remains closed to vehicles and pedestrians while sidewalk and roadway construction is underway. The roadway reconstruction work is being performed by G&C Asphalt. City officials acknowledge the work will impede access to businesses in the area, however they will

still be open and operational and they advise contacting the business you plan to visit to identify the best alternative access. In other construction news: 105th Street – 11th to 12th Avenue, and 12th Avenue - 104th to 105th Street is complete and the road is opened to traffic. For 97th Street – 13th to 15th Avenue, underground

pipe replacement work is complete, and drinking water advisories have been lifted. Roadway re-construction is underway, with concrete curb and sidewalk repairs planned to begin next week. This project is expected to be completed by Oct. 6. For 99th Street – 12th to 13th Avenue underground pipe replacement work is underway with road clo-

sures and drinking water advisories in effect. Underground work is expected to proceed for the next two weeks, followed by two more weeks of roadway reconstruction. The project is expected to be completed by Oct. 20. For the Killdeer Park Development, concrete curb and sidewalk work is complete and construction of roadway granular cours-

es is underway. Paving and shallow buried utilities work are planned to begin in the coming weeks. For 18th Ave/Diefenbaker Drive/St Laurent Drive - 100th Street to Mackenzie King Crescent - Roadways, this project is complete and the road is opened to traffic. For Henderson Drive/ Amos Drive Lane - Buhler Ave to Territorial Drive, back alley construction is expected to begin in early October. The Airport CAP Runway 12-30 resurfacing project is also now complete. The runway is now open again to air traffic.

New role with RCMP, funding for safety efforts highlight Sutton report By John Cairns Staff Reporter

City community safety coordinator Herb Sutton had plenty of new news to share in his report to council last Monday night, his first report since back in June. In particular, Sutton updated councillors about some additional duties he has taken on recently: a role with the RCMP as their community program coordinator. He is now half-time with them and also half-time with the city. Sutton assured council, “I will do my best to juggle both positions and the expectations related to both of them.” He said he accepted the role with the RCMP for a couple of reasons. First, it was an opportunity to “solidify a good relationship between the RCMP and the city.” The other reason, he

said, was to work on building relationships with the First Nations in particular, and working with youth in the schools. “We’ve been thinking regionally about community safety, obviously the RCMP is thinking regionally in terms of their detachment. So I thought it was a natural fit,” said Sutton. Beyond that, Sutton also reported “growing momentum” for a few initiatives that they are working on. One of them involved SAGE – Safety, Acceptance Guidance, Empowerment – and the efforts to move forward to stage two of that effort. For months, SAGE had been seeking additional funding to put together a regional steering committee for the next phase of its community safety plan. The vision was for the committee to bring togeth-

Our Services Include: • Hearing tests • Providing the latest hearing technology • Free lifetime cleanings and adjustments • Counseling and follow-up • Repairs on most makes and models • Custom ear protection • Dealing with most third-party insurers New patients welcome. Call to schedule your appointment!

1-877-651-1606

er four levels of government – federal, provincial, municipal and First Nations. However, obtaining federal funding money had proved a stumbling block. The news from Sutton was that some federal funding had finally come through. North Battleford has been earmarked for $50,000 for each of the next five years in “Coalition Funding” from Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. Sutton explained that originally they were told only three communities in Saskatchewan would be eligible for this funding: Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert. But in mid-August they learned North Battleford was added to the list. Sutton was pleased with the funding and pledged they would work with it as best as they can to develop their regional committee. However, he also noted

GUARANTEE WARRANTY

3 YEARS

FREE BATTERIES NORTH BATTLEFORD 31-9800 Territorial Dr (Co-Op Mall) Now with Full time service

QualityHearingCentre.ca

Community safety coordinator Herb Sutton had some good federal funding news as well as an update on his own new role with the RCMP during his monitoring report to council Monday night, his first one since the summer break. Photo by John Cairns

that they had to scale back plans from their original proposal in which they requested $300,000. Still, “it’s significant and it’s an important first step,” said Sutton. The other federal agency they are working with is Public Safety Canada. Sutton reported that North Battleford has been selected as one of 10 communities across Canada to be part of a new model called the Federal, Provincial, Territorial Collaborative Approach. Sutton said it’s designed to be used by communities across the country that use a “Moving Towards a Stronger Future” model to

build a community development plan, which is what SAGE uses. Sutton adds this model involves hosting a two-day forum that will be held in late January, 2018. It will bring together agencies and government departments to help implement the SAGE community safety plan. Sutton also reported on the ongoing Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design efforts. Sutton went to Calgary along with two other city officials to the ICE International CPTED Conference in early August. Some 15 countries were represented at the conference.

What was reassuring to Sutton was the progress North Battleford was making on CPTED projects. “We actually got a lot of praise from the experts about the programs we were involved in,” said Sutton. “We got very positive feedback.” In particular, he noted others at the conference were impressed with the support mayor and council had provided. “They assured us that doesn’t happen in every city,” Sutton said. Sutton also is happy with the ongoing efforts towards creating formalized neighbourhoods, as well as community building initiatives that include painting murals at city intersections. He noted the Fairview Heights street mural project saw over 30 neighbours from the area come out to assist with painting the mural on the street. From Sutton’s view, this effort achieved two major objectives: “to build that sense of neighbourhood” as well as “create a mural that we were hoping would be a traffic calming measure in that neighbourhood.” On the heels of that project, another street mural project is planned for Sept. 30 at 95th Street and Abbott Avenue in the city.

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME We accept all dental insurance plans Rodney Sternig - Licenced Denturist

• Satisfaction Guaranteed PROFESSIONAL DENTURE SERVICES Direct to the Public including Complete and Partial Dentures, Soft Liners, Relines, Repairs, Mouthguards and Denture over Implants

HOURS:

Monday - Thursday ~ 9 am - 5 pm Friday ~ 9 a.m - 3 pm

306-445-2322

1492 - 100th Street, North Battleford S9A 0W2 Easy access parking behind building

PAGE 4 - Tuesday, October 3, 2017

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

Catalogue available from: Speargrass Specialties Box 298, Eatonia, Sk., S0L 0Y0 Phone: (306) 967‐2910

Lead-pipe cinch Not very far back in history, our slang vocabulary included the expression lead-pipe cinch.” The term meant something very easy to do, a certainty. The allusion was to the ease with which lead pipe could be bent. The more sinister, and unintended, allusion is to the certainty that lead is a poison. In ancient times, Roman governments not only saw their soldiers perish on distant battlefields, but unintentionally permitted the deaths of non-combatant citizens in highly civilized Roman bathrooms. Although the magnificent Roman aqueducts were made from stone, the water was delivered to the users through lead pipes. Water absorbs lead and so do people who drink leadcontaminated water. The amounts may be small but the effect is cumulative. Lead poisoning causes mild to severe physical and mental deterioration, and the massive absorption of lead is fatal. While the absorption rate from water pipes is normally very low, the rate of absorption from lead compounds and in old metal cookware and old pottery glazes can be very high. Flint, Michigan, is a city with a huge network of lead water lines. If and when they are replaced, the cost will be astronomical. Flint is not the only example of a community with a municipal water system which is a threat to its citizens. For many years, experts hanging on their separate hooks in the closets of officialdom have known about the danger of lead in water pipes and common household items such as pans and pottery. Yet, over 2,000 years after the Roman Empire, I saw lead water lines being installed in Saskatchewan. This installation was made during the early years of WWII, when copper was in short supply. Small diameter water lines are now made from copper or plastic, but probably no authority anywhere in Canada knows how many of the old lead lines are still in use or where they are located. In past years in Saskatchewan, a quantitative analysis of any public water supply was required only when the supply was from a new source. Afterwards quantitative analyses were sporadic and were never free. Local governments were required to obtain water samples to obtain – at no cost to themselves – regular reports as to the level of coliform organisms in their waterworks systems. Coliform organisms come from the bowels of humans and animals. They are not the only dangerous contaminant. Lead may be one and others, such as uranium, may be naturally occurring. Countrywide, there is no foolproof method in use for detecting them. Added to this problem are defects in the operation of municipal waterworks such as antiquated equipment and untrained staff. Another danger which looms is not of quality but of supply. Under NAFTA now, and probably in the future, is the permission which large corporations, both domestic and foreign, have to gain control of aquifers in competition with municipal systems. The corporations sell water commercially in plastic bottles which, unless recycled, are continuing contaminants. We may not be far from the day when massive quantities of Canadian

fresh water are exported by pipelines and tankers. While these huge problems remain unsolved, public attention has been diverted to the debate about genetically modified foods. Certainly patented designer life forms are a menace to the genetic purity of traditional crops. Cross-pollination does take place; heritage strains can be destroyed. So long as GMOs are appetizing and non-poisonous, however, they pose no risk to human health. Certain diets which include GMOs may affect phenotype, which is outward appearance, but not genotype which is individual genetic structure. To think otherwise is to believe lovers of genetically altered pork will grow curly tails and lovers of genetically altered cattle will develop horns and milk-drinking males will grow udders. The whole debate is a sideshow. The problem of the purity of the water is old and is urgent. The most dangerous problem now is the security of Canada’s fresh water. Canadian water should not be a commodity like softwood or potatoes, to be sold and shipped away to be wasted in another country.

News-Optimist.ca

Last week’s News-Optimist online poll: There is an uproar over the federal plan to change how corporations are taxed. What do you think? • It’s a good thing. Corporations have too many tax breaks. 17% • It’s destructive. Small business will be discouraged. 44% • It’s a good thing, but it doesn’t go far enough to target the one per cent. 12% • Income tax of any kind is counterproductive. Rethink the whole tax system! 27%

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

This week’s News-Optimist online poll: Will you ever go to Las Vegas (again)? • Yes • No

Published since 1905 Becky Doig Editor

A community newspaper published Tuesdays Owned & Operated by The Prairie Newspaper Group LP a division of GVIC Communications Corp. 892 104th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 1M9 (Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to the above) Telephone: 306-445-7261 – Fax: 306-445-3223 Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net Personal Delivery Charge — Out of Town $44.29 Plus GST.

Jayne Foster Interim Editor

Valorie Higgs Sales Manager

John Cairns Reporter

Scott McMillan Advertising

Josh Greschner Lucas Punkari Reporter Sports Reporter

Candace Mack-Horton Advertising

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 - PAGE 5

Rotary Club donates $25,000 to Winter Games

The 2018 Saskatchewan Games committee named the Rotary Club of the Battlefords a platinum sponsor, after the Rotary club donated $25,000 to the games. As platinum sponsors, the Rotary club requested their donation go towards upgrades to the Civic Centre. The Saskatchewan Winter Games will take place Feb. 18-24, 2018. A total of 1,800 athletes will be coming to the city, competing in 17 different sports. Photo by Josh Greschner

NDP caucus holds retreat at Jackfish Lake Continued from Page 2 Sarauer believes the growth reflects a sentiment “that people are feeling like they aren’t represented well by the Saskatchewan Party anymore, that it’s time for a change and they’re frustrated with the direction they’re going in.” Earlier in the week on Sept. 26, there was a shuffle in the NDP shadow cabinet ranks. Both Ryan Meili and Trent Wotherspoon have left their critic roles entirely to concentrate on their leadership bids. Meanwhile the newlyelected Mowat takes over critic roles for Advanced Education, Jobs, Poverty, Housing, Youth, Immigration, Status of Women, and the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. Sarauer said they were

excited to have Mowat with the caucus going into the fall session. “She’s incredibly brilliant, she’s a hard worker, she’s been very dedicated to her community and the constituency of Saskatoon Fairview in particular. I know she’s going to be a great addition to the team.” As for the main issues and priorities that have come up at the retreat, Sarauer mentions there is big concern about Crown corporations and privatization. “Even partial selloffs are not on with the people of Saskatchewan,” said Sarauer. Education is another concern, with staff cuts “creating pressures in the education system that’s very concerning for many families.” The ongoing Global

Transportation Hub issue is one the NDP continues to hammer away at. “We’re still calling on the government to be more open and transparent about the GTH scandal,” said Sarauer. In particular, she believes the government needs to provide access to key witnesses who they have been “intentionally blocking our attempts at having the opportunity to get answers from”, she said. Sarauer pledged the NDP would get to the bottom of what happened. “The very worst case scenario is that something is seriously wrong, and there isn’t anyone in Saskatchewan who doesn’t think something fishy didn’t happen here.” The other thing the NDP will be focusing on

during the next several months is their leadership race, with a vote happening March 3 next year. Sarauer sees it as a “great opportunity for growth within our party, and looking ahead into the future.”

As for the Sask Party leadership race now under way, Sarauer noted there was a “lot of backtracking on issues they have been promoting in the House every single day”, pointing to the GTH issue as well as

the PST on insurance premiums. She believes it changes little with respect to the Sask. Party. “They still have to wear these cuts to crucial services,” said Sarauer.

Liberals name interim leader Staff The Saskatchewan Liberal Party has named Tara Jijian as interim leader. The announcement was made Sunday at a gathering of party members in Regina. Jijian had previously run in Regina Coronation Park for the party and is described as an active community volunteer and an advocate in the areas of education, mental health, workplace safety, and

building safer communities. “I believe that the principles of liberalism are alive and well in this province. Through meaningful consultation with our members, the public, and a broad range of community groups, our party will be putting forward progressive policies that will benefit every Saskatchewan citizen,” said Jijian in a statement. “This is a party of openness, of fairness,

and transparency. Over the coming months, we’ll be taking steps to welcome people from all demographics and backgrounds to contribute to the dialogue.” Jijian takes over from Darrin Lamoureux who announced his resignation as Liberal leader earlier this month. The party plans to hold a leadership convention for a permanent leader sometime in 2018. 17101TW1

Western FINANCIAL GROUP

kup

Chec

PAGE 6 - Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Bracelet mystery solved at last! Special to the Regional Optimist Four long years ago, Emily Tucker of rural North Battleford discovered a mysterious bracelet made of gold-coloured metal. The bracelet bears the number W301958, the name “Barnes, J.M.J.” and the date: January 10, 1942. On the opposite side is the Royal Canadian Air Force crest. Emily found the bracelet among her uncle’s belongings after he died, but she had no idea where it came from. Her uncle was Elijah (Lige) Scargall, brother of her father Aner. The family had come from Lincolnshire, England to farm at North Battleford. During World War Two, Lige enlisted and served as ground crew in the Royal Canadian Air Force. He married late in life and had no children, so that’s why Emily inherited his effects. Emily wanted to return the bracelet to its original owner, so she approached a wartime author named Elinor Florence, based in Invermere, British Columbia, and asked for her help. Elinor grew up on a farm at Brada, which is still operated by her brother Rob Florence, and worked at the Battlefords Advertiser-Post back in the 1970s. She went on to pursue a long career in journalism. Her first novel Bird’s Eye View was published in 2014, about a Saskatchewan farm girl who becomes an aerial photo interpreter. The setting for the novel is based on the Battlefords. Elinor also writes a regular blog called Wartime Wednesdays, telling true stories of Canadians at war. She set to work to find the bracelet’s owner. “Over the past four years, I have been using all my sleuthing skills to find the bracelet’s owner,” Elinor said. “I learned that these souvenir identity bracelets were fairly common in wartime, and don’t have much value in today’s marketplace. But I confirmed that the W in front of the number means it belonged to a woman, a member of the RCAF Women’s Division. “Because I had her service number, Veterans Affair Canada was able to tell me her name, but it wouldn’t release any other information because I wasn’t a family member. “I didn’t even know whether Jean was still living. In vain did I search the internet, hoping that a newspaper story about her might surface, or even an obituary. “I posted about her on my blog called Wartime Wednesdays, on other websites and Facebook force on Jan. 10, 1942 – the date commemorated on groups, hoping someone might recognize the name. the bracelet. I contacted the RCAF Airwomen’s Association, but Her first posting after enlisting was to Guelph, they only have records of women who served after Ont., for a cookery course, and from there she spent a the war. few months in St. Hubert, Quebec. “As the years passed, I began to lose heart. At the time, the British Commonwealth Air Finally, in one last-ditch attempt, I wrote up a brief Training Program was operating dozens of training item and sent it to the Legion Magazine, where it was airports across the country, for tens of thousands of posted in The Lost Trails section.” aircrews from every Commonwealth country. North And who should read the item but Jean’s youngest Battleford was one of the largest training bases. brother and only surviving sibling, 88-year-old Jack Called a Service Flight Training School, it was the Barnes of Cambridge in Ontario! Jack was astonished last stop before the men headed overseas into combat. to read his sister’s name in the magazine and learn Jean served in North Battleford from June 1943 that someone was looking for her. until May 1945, when Germany surrendered. She Sadly, Jean died in 1999 at the age of 79, but Jack spent the last few months of the war in Manitoba, and and his two sons, Cory and Ron Barnes, were happy was honourably discharged on Nov. 22, 1945. to provide her story. Jean settled in Toronto. It wasn’t until two decades Jean’s parents Norman and Mary moved to after the war ended that she married Vic Blount, and Saskatchewan from rural Ontario in the early 1900s the couple had no children. looking for work. They tried homesteading near After Jean’s husband died in 1992, she moved to Mazenod, Saskatchewan before a series of crop Cambridge to be near her brother Jack and his wife failures forced them to return to Ontario in 1928. Betty. Their first seven children were born in She died in November of 1999 and is buried in Saskatchewan. Jean Muriel Janet Barnes was born Mississauga, Ont. May 6, 1920, the third child and the oldest daughter. According to her brother: “Jean had a quiet, When Jean was eight years old, the family loving nature. She always had a very pleasant way returned to Ontario and settled on another farm, near with everyone, especially little ones. She helped our Elmville. They had another three children, for a total parents throughout their lives in many ways, and of 10. Jack was the youngest of the 10 siblings. helped them to remain comfortable in their own Jean lived on the farm until she was 16 years old, home late into life. Jean was always very generous and then worked in Toronto until she joined the air with her helping hands. She was my favourite sister.”

Jack himself became a woodworker in 1946, and retired in 1989. He then made woodcarving his hobby. He carved an entire collection of horses, complete with harnesses attached to sleighs, wagons, carts and more. Jack’s wife Betty died recently, and he has been very busy cleaning out his house in Cambridge. So it was fortunate that he spared a few minutes to read the Legion Magazine and discover the item about his sister’s bracelet! The question remains as to why Lige Scargall was in possession of Jean’s bracelet. It is believed that they must have met in North Battleford, when both were serving in the air force. Perhaps Lige received the bracelet as a romantic memento of their time together, or perhaps the kindhearted Jean gave it to him as a good luck charm before he headed overseas. After the war ended, Lige moved to Alberta, where he worked in the construction industry and eventually married a woman named Mary. They never had children, either. Lige died in 1977 and his ashes are buried in North Battleford – but he kept the bracelet among his possessions until he died. If you have any more information about the mysterious bracelet, please contact this newspaper. To read the entire story and see more photos, visit Elinor’s website at www.elinorflorence.com/blog/ rcaf-bracelet.

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 - PAGE 7

Lucas Punkari

Sports Reporter

BATTLEFORDS

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

Bait and Tackle

Score Shot Ammunition In Stock 2 3/4” Winchester & Kent Ammunition On Sale Various Shot Sizes in stock

Leo Mitchell Road 306-937-2275 “YOUR ARCHERY SPECIALISTS”

John Paul II Crusaders quarterback Brady Holhoyi was wrapped up by Logan Boser of the Carpenter High Spartans on Thursday afternoon at Crusader Field. Photo by Josh Greschner

Crusaders upset by Spartans By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter

In a game that saw many twist and turns, the John Paul II Crusaders saw their comeback bid disappear in a matter of seconds Thursday evening at Crusader Field. Just a couple of plays after the Crusaders had come back from a 22-6 deficit to take a 28-22 lead with 7:32 to go in the fourth quarter, Carpenter High Spartans quarterback Josiah Griffiths connected with running back Ethan Kyplain on a 62-yard passing play to put the Meadow Lake team back in front. It would be a lead that they would never relinquish as the Spartans picked up a 38-28 triumph to drop the Crusaders to 1-3 on the season. “We had too many mistakes at crucial times,” Crusaders head coach Bruce Yockey said. “Realistically, we could have been up two or three touchdowns early if we didn’t have some dropped passes and a fumble that gave them good field position. “It was a great turnaround to come back in the second half and take the lead, but we just weren’t able to build any momentum really as we’d shoot ourselves in the foot on a few occasions. However,

that’s something that happens when you have a young football team and it’ll be a good learning experience for them.” While it was a disappointing outcome for the Crusaders, the result was one that sent the 1-3 Spartans into a state of euphoria as they had earned their first victory in two and a half years. “It’s a huge boost for us and this gives us lot of positivity as we move forward,” Spartans head coach Sam Dawson said. “The guys have been working really hard every day at practice and it was extra special for all of us to get a win like this.” One of the big contributors for the Spartans was Griffiths, as the Grade 12 quarterback threw three touchdown passes and scampered into the end zone twice. “He’s actually growing into that role as a mobile quarterback,” Dawson said. “He was our defensive MVP last year, but we needed someone to step up for us at quarterback and he’s done just that. “You saw that at the end of the game on the passing play to Ethan for the go-ahead touchdown. Our offensive coaches drew up a different pass play that what we had it ran and it worked for us.” Crusaders quarterback

Brady Holhoyi turned in a strong showing of his own in the loss, as he rushed across the goal line twice in the second quarter and threw two touchdown passes to Thomas Swanson in the fourth quarter, even though he was hampered by an ankle injury he suffered a week earlier in Unity. The Crusaders, who were without top linebacker Andrew Pyle due to a concussion, also lost the services of running back Decklan Wychopen to an injury early in the second quarter. However, Leo Sanger was able to fit right into the offence, as he had a number of strong runs to move the Crusaders down the field. “Both of them are fast runners, but Leo’s more of a north-south runner,” Yockey said. “He’s able to find the gaps in the offensive line, while Decklan is more of a jitterbug moving back and forth out there. “Leo did an exceptional job of going in there when Decklan got hurt and I was very pleased about that.” The Crusaders will head back out on the road on Thursday afternoon to take on the Delisle Rebels. Their regular season finale will take place at Crusader Field on Thursday, Oct. 12 against the Martensville Royals.

Email: newsoptimist.sports@sasktel.net

Friedrich wraps up season with provincial silver medal By Lucas Punkari Sports Reporter

After a busy summer that didn’t quite go to his liking, Colby Friedrich was determined to finish off his golf season on a high note. The Grade 11 student at North Battleford Comprehensive High School certainly did that in Estevan on Sept. 22 and 23 as he picked up a silver medal in the boys’ division at the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association Provincial Golf Championship. “My summer wasn’t as good as I hoped with some tough finishes at a few events, so I was determined to have one more solid tournament before the year came to an end,” Friedrich said. “Obviously I’m a little disappointed that I didn’t get the win, but I thought the weekend was really good. I gave myself a chance to be in the mix for a gold medal and I accomplished my goal of getting a top three finish.” This marks the third straight that Friedrich has competed at the provincials, as he finished in 16th place two years ago in Yorkton and came home in sixth spot at last year’s event in Madge Lake. “I had a more success-

ful showing the second time around at the provincials so my expectations were higher for this year,” Friedrich said. The one challenge though was the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Club in Estevan, which is a course that Friedrich hadn’t played well at in his previous trips there. “It’s pretty similar to the course here in North Battleford, as there’s a pretty open front nine that allows you to spray the ball around the course,” Friedrich said. “I had always liked playing the course, but I had never been able to get a good score there. Obviously, my view has changed a bit after what happened at the provincials.” Friedrich started off the tournament with a six-over-par round of 78, which put him four strokes behind opening round leader Mason Gorski of Meadow Lake. “It was a battle for everyone to get through the weather conditions,” Friedrich said. “It rained pretty much all day and we actually had about an hour delay when I got to the 14th hole. “During that time, I got to see what everyone was shooting so I made up my mind to have an aggressive approach over the last five

holes, which brought me closer to the leaders.” He continued that aggressive style of play in the final round as his threeover par round of 75 gave him a two-day total score of 153 and put him five shots behind gold medalist Jace Carlisle of Estevan. “Most of my buddies were playing either with me or around me and I knew that many of them are capable of shooting low scores, so I went with the aggressive approach once again,” Friedrich said. “I felt like the way that I closed this tournament was a lot better than the rest of my events this year. I really struggled in the last nine holes at times over the summer, so to have things go well at the end in Estevan was a nice confidence boost for me.” As he gears up for the 2018 season, which will include the SHSAA championships in North Battleford, Friedrich is planning to spend a lot of time working on the mental side of the game. “I want to be able to close tournaments out a lot better than I have been,” Friedrich said. “This year was the best that my wedge game has ever been and I was happy with my putting inside of five feet in Estevan, but the mental side wasn’t great.”

PAGE 8 - Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Scan here for careers online

All the right choices for you to reach More People...

Deadline: Tuesday 11 a.m.

Deadline: Friday 11 a.m.

FUNERAL SERVICES

MONUMENTS

Rose City Memorials Ltd.

Cut Knife......... 306-398-4717 Lloydminster ... 306-825-9444 We have met the memorial needs of many families and would consider it a privilege to serve you.

Family Owned with Family Pride since 1961.

Full Color NOW AVAILABLE for your CLASSIFIED AD!

COMING EVENTS

LAND FOR SALE

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES SHOW & SALE, October 16 - 22 (inclusive) at Market Mall, 2325 Preston Avenue, Saskatoon, during mall hours.

Professional Services Provided with Heart and Compassion ROBERT MACKAY GEORGE HAEGEBAERT P.O. Box 806 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3

306-446-4200

FUNERAL SERVICES DUCHARME: Donna Alice: April 6, 1959 – Sept. 7, 2017. A Gathering for family and friends to Celebrate Donna’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Maymont School Auditorium, Maymont, SK. Memorial donations are requested to the Canadian Cancer Society or a Charity of the Donor’s Choice. Condolences can be sent to mail@battlefordsfuneralservice.com Arrangements are entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service (306-446-4200) __________________________________________________________

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS Logs Wanted: If you have Spruce or Pine Logs for sale, contact David at 780-486-8263 or email dwall@millarwestern.com, to discuss our competitive rates and specifications.

AUCTIONS Hardy auctions from Melford will be conducting a coin and currency auction. Saturday September 14 10:00 a.m. Special features include. 1954 and 1988 1,000 dollar bills, 1947 Maple leaf silver dollar, 1875-H quarter, 1926 Far 6 nickel, 1922 to 1926 pennies, This is one of the most outstanding collections ever put out for auction. 306-9219608

battlefordnewsoptimist.adperfect.com

PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT. Great References Available a total of 590 QUARTER SECTIONS SOLD across saskatchewan

MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE

Yellowhead Modular Home Sales Canadian built by MODULINE Elite Price Event on NOW!

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

OBITUARIES

Try our new self-serve tool to place your classified ad!

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS!

RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca

NICODEMO: It is with sadness the family of William Norman (Bill) Nicodemo, beloved husband of Dorothy Nicodemo, resident of North Battleford, SK., announce his passing Thursday, September 28, 2017 at Battlefords Union Hospital with family at his side. Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for Bill’s Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 from Third Avenue United Church with Rev. Frances Patterson Officiating. Private interment will take place at the City of North Battleford Cemetery. Memorial donations are requested to the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation Inc. Box 1358, North Battleford, SK. S9A 3L8 (please designate to the Palliative Care Unit or Ward 3 North) or to Third Avenue United Church, 1301-102nd. St., North Battleford, SK S9A 1G4. Condolences can be sent to mail@battlefordsfuneralservice.com Celebration Of Life arrangements are entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service (306-446-4200) __________________________________________________________

COLEMAN: In Loving Memory of Linda Marie Coleman, born December 22, 1949 at Maidstone, SK., passed away September 18, 2017 in North Battleford, SK. Survived by her loving family: daughter, Crystal Coleman (Cory): grandchildren: Christopher, Asha & Brody; son, Derek Coleman (Brandi): grandchildren: Kira, Braedon, Hailey & James; parents: Raymond & Marie Valliere; brothers: Paul Valliere (Gail) & Doug Valliere; sister-in-law, Janet Valliere; niece, Michelle Valliere; great-nieces: Ashley & Payton Valliere. Predeceased by her brother, Dennis Valliere; nephew, Christopher Valliere. Funeral Service was held on Friday, September 22, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. from Maidstone Legion Hall, Maidstone, SK., with Officiant Mrs. Joyce Salie. Eulogist was Valerie Page. Music: “Grandma’s Song” - Alan Jackson; “Islands In The Stream” - Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton; “Take These Wings” - Kate Abramson; “Heaven Was Needing A Hero” - Jet Dvo & “Ave Maria” - Robert MacKay. Honourary Pallbearers were All the Grandchildren. Pallbearers were Michelle Valliere, Ryan Brown, Kelly Page, Ryan Abramson, Zack Abramson & Richard Meynberg. Memorial Donations are requested to The Lung Association. Interment was at Maidstone Cemetery, Maidstone, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to Battlefords Funeral Service. ___________________________________________________

FARMLAND WANTED

FOR SALE - MISC $209,000 - 1422-109th Street, North Battleford. 1120 sq.ft. 1968 built bungalow with finished basement complete with 2 basement suites and single detached garage. www.fmappraisals.com/sales or call 1-306-937-5073 PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

Single wide, Multi Sections, Lake House, Motel Units

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

306-496-7538

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

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

Ph.: 306-445-7265 / 306-445-7266

LIVESTOCK

SUITES FOR RENT

On Farm Slaughter

I will travel to your farm to slaughter beef. Call 306-386-7874. (Slaughter Only!)

Available for Rent, 1 bedroom basement suite, W/D/F/S and utilities included, references required. Call or text 306-480-1347 Serious inquiries only.

SERVICES FOR HIRE

LAND FOR SALE PrairieSky Royalty Ltd. is a publicly-traded company in Calgary that acquires oil & gas fee title and royalty interests at fair market value. To receive a cash offer, call 587293- 4055 or visit www.prairiesky.com/Selling-Your-Royalties.

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

Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @

www.westerncommodities.ca

HEATED CANOLA WANTED!! - GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!! - BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!! HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

HOUSES FOR SALE Affordable 2 bdrm home in Cutknife with room to roam. Ideal for retired couple or first time home buyers. Serious inquires only. 306937-2872 Quaint 3 bdrm Home with character for a growing family in Wilkie for sale. Serious inquiries only. 306-937-2827

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

AUTO MISCELLANEOUS Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks. Lots of trucks... Dodge... GMC... Ford... Imports... 1/2 ton to 3 tons... We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260. Lloydminster.

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

HEALTH SERVICES EMERGENCY DEVICE FOR SENIORS - Free Equipment, Monitored 24/7. Stay safe in your home for less than $1.00 a day, For Free Information Guide Call Toll Free 1-888865-5001 or www.LifeAssure.com.

STEEL BUILDINGS/GRANARIES * Economical * Pre-engineered * Steel framed, fabric covered buildings. Call 1-877- 397-1594 or go to www.guard-all.com for a free quote. STEEL BUILDING SALE ...”BLOWOUT SALE!” 20X23$5,998. 25X27 $6,839. 30X33 $8,984. One End Wall Included. Bonus Drill/Impact Driver Combo Kit Included. Check Out www.pioneersteel.ca for more prices. Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES EXPERIENCED WATER WELL Driller for farms & acreages. Edmonton based. We have the work. Excellent earnings, year round work. Helpers also apply. Email resume: bigiron@bigirondrilling.com. Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON (244-4766).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Professional

D I R E C T O R Y CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

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

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

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

Let Us Help You Keep Your Business Rolling! PLACE YOUR AD ON THIS PAGE

306-445-7261

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

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 - PAGE 9

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Heavy equipment

SCRAPER & DOZER, GRADER OPERATORS

for late model CAT equip. Camp job. Competitive wages, plus R & B. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc., Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www.brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

COMING EVENTS

Co-op Fuels Up BUHF

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! Indemand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your workat-home career today!

Place your ad online anytime! battlefordnewsoptimist. adperfect.com

Visit our website

www.newsoptimist.ca for more community events

Community Events Calendar KANAWEYIMIK CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES INC.

Kanaweyimik is an independent, non-political child welfare Located in Battleford, Saskatchewan, Kanaweyimik is an independent, non-political and and Familyfamily Services agencyto agency providing child Child welfare services providing to ve First Nations communities. five Firstservices Nations. Moosomin, Mosquito, Red Pheasant, Saulteaux & Sweetgrass First Nations contract for services THERAPIST/COUNSELLOR POSITION with Kanaweyimik. Full-Time

KanaweyimikFAMILY is offering a full-time therapist/counsellor SERVICE WORKER position within a unique, exciting and newly established (SOCIAL WORKER) counselling program. We provide a multi-disciplinary, holistic, therapeutic treatment service to individualsPOSITIONS and families who 2 FULL-TIME, PERMANENT have experienced1violence abuse. Our program uses TERMand POSITION both Western therapeutic and Aboriginal cultural perspectives. (October 2017 to May 31, 2018) Extensive training and ongoing clinical supervision will be provided.

The Family Service Worker is directly responsible to the

QUALIFICATIONS Supervisor and/or Executive Director; • A Masters degree in a related eld or a Registered Psychologist • Manage a caseload in the area of child welfare and family in Saskatchewan support services; • Experience providing individual, group and family therapy •• Intake services; Knowledgeable and sensitive to Aboriginal issues with an understanding of the dynamics of intergenerational abuse • Services to children-in-care; •• Community development; Computer skills •• Services to families in need of support to prevent children Excellent verbal, written and time management skills • Acoming-into-care; clear criminal and child abuse records check • A valid driver’s licence

• Maintain computerized data, case recordings, individual

Anand family files, etc; immediate or negotiable start date with very competitive salary and benefts. • Coordinate case planning sessions and monitor case plans Due to the focus of the position being to provide services to to ensure families are receiving services; First Nations individuals in an agency operated by member First • Child abuse investigations; Nations, preference willthe be given to those for this • Will comply with provisions of applicants the Kanaweyimik position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

Personnel Manual as it exists from time to time.

Please forward detailed resumés by email to: tony@tonymartens.ca QUALIFICATIONS or by mail to: 9621 - 161A Street, Surrey, B.C. V4N 2E8. Please address to the attention of Tony Martens, M.Sc., BSW, RCC, RSW. • Must have a University Degree from a recognized School

of Social Work; Deadline for accepting applications is March 31, 2014 at 5pm • Must have at least 5 years experience and proven ability local time. to work in the counselling and social services area with

Contact person: Tony Martens 604-583-6612. Only successful families and children; candidates who make the short list will be contacted. • Must demonstrate knowledge of The Child & Family Recruitment process to continue until a successful Services candidate is Act; selected.

• Must have work experience assessing families and children; • Must have work experience counselling families and children; • Must demonstrate a clear understanding and knowledge of native family systems; • Must demonstrate knowledge in the area of family violence dynamics; • Must demonstrate knowledge of the effects of separation as it relates to placement of children; • Knowledge of the Cree language is an asset; • Computer skills are a position requirement; • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills are required; • A clear criminal records check MUST BE PRESENTED AT INTERVIEW; • Must have a valid drivers licence. Application deadline is October 10, 2017 at 5:00 pm. Start date to be determined. Please forward resumés by fax, email or mail to: (306) 445-2533 Email to: marleneb@kanaweyimik.com Only successful applicants will be contacted for scheduled interviews. Recruitment process to continue until a successful candidate is selected. Kanaweyimik Child & Family Services, Inc. P.O. Box 1270 Battleford, Saskatchewan S0M 0E0 Attention: Marlene Bugler

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

Al-anon Family Groups If someone’s drinking troubles you attending Al-Anon Family Group provides understanding and support. Meetings Monday at 7:00 p.m. and Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, corner of 15th Ave. & 108th Street. Contacts 306-937-7765, 306-937-7289 or 306-441-9324.

Monday, September 18 - November 6 Sharing Grief’s Journey - A support group for those struggling with the loss of a loved one. Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m. for 8 weeks. For more information call Sue at 306-445-6658 or Denise at 306-441-3338.

Friday, October 6 English Style Fish & Chips at the Royal Canadian Legion #70, North Battleford from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. 225 Advance tickets only, phone 306445-2173.

Saturday, October 7 North Battlefield - Super Smash 4 Brothers Tournament at the North Battleford Library, 1392 - 101st Street. 12:30 - 1:00 p.m. Registration. 1:00 6:00 p.m.Tournament. Please bring your own controller.Types you can bring are: Wii U pro controllers, Gamecube controllers & Wii remotes.Ages 10+.

Tuesday, October 10 Senior Fun Day at St. Joseph Hall, 1942 - 98th Street from 2:00 - 4:30 p.m. Entertainment by Loewen’s Orchestra. Lunch & Bingo.All seniors welcome.

Saturdays, October 14 Family Justice Services offers a Parenting after Separation and Divorce Program - to help people who are considering or may be in the separation/ divorce process from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Registration is mandatory. There is no fee for these session. To register call toll free 1-877-964-5501. Location will be advised when you register. Classes are for adults only - no child care is provided.

Saturday, October 14 Bottles & Barrels - The best arty since prohibition. Celebrate the roaring 20’s with music by the Stone Frigate Big Band.Tasting available for Saskatchewan micro breweries, wineries and distilleries. Period costumes are encouraged.

Sunday, October 15 Larry Krause concert, Borden Community Centre, 2:00 p.m. Hosted by Borden Friendship Club with proceeds to Borden Lakeland Library

Wednesday, October 15 Borden Friendship Club Harvest Tea and Bake Sale, Senior’s Club Room, 2:00 p.m. By donation.

Saturday, October 21 Borden Lions Fall supper, Borden Community Centre, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Westjet raffle draw with proceeds to Borden Museum washrooms.

Saturday, October 28 Family Hallowe’en Dance, Borden Community Centre, 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. $300 gift basket raffle, Proceeds to Borden Museum Washroom Fund. 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.

Discovery Co-op put out the call and the community answered. As part of Fuel Good Day on Sept. 19, six cents from every litre of fuel purchased at the Discovery Co-op Gas Bars were donated to the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation. At the end of the day, Discovery Co-op members and customers helped raise $6310.27. Pictured from left to right are Dave Rogers - Discovery Co-op C/Store division manager, Mike Nord - Discovery Co-op general manager, Claudette McGuire - executive director of BUH Foundation and Shawn Adair - Discovery Co-op operations manager. Discovery Co-op is committed to serving the community and giving back, not just on this but throughout the year, said Nord. “Fuel Good Day is one of the many ways we fuel our communities, whether it’s by sharing profits with our members or supporting local organizations that are doing important work right here in our own backyard.” Since 2016, Discovery Co-op returned $1,436,528 million to its members in cash back and equity payments and contributed more than $156,000 to local organizations and causes. Fuel Good Day, was celebrated at more than 380 Co-op Gas Bars throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northwest Ontario, each supporting a selected local charitable or non-profit organization or initiative. The combined result from across Western Canada will be released later in October. Photo submitted

Ministry of Education reports increased grad rates, fuel cost savings Staff A press release from the Minister of Education states provincial graduation rates have increased by 0.9 per cent. The 20152016 graduation rate was 75.6 per cent, while the 2016-2017 graduation rate was 76.5 per cent. Last school year’s graduation rate was the highest it’s been in the last 20 years. Meanwhile, the graduation rate for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students also increased to 43.2 per cent in 2016-17, up from 41.9 per cent in 2015-16. In 2014, all 28 school divisions approved the Educational Sector Strategic Plan, with features the goal

of increasing the provincial graduation rate to 85 per cent. Graduation rates are measured according to different criteria, such as the “on-time” graduation rate (three years of starting Grade 10) and the “extended” graduation rate. The latter graduation rate is 84 per cent overall, while it is 59.8 per cent for First Nations, Metis and Inuit students. In other news, the Ministry states an agreement between school divisions entering a bulk fuel purchasing agreement for the current school year will save an estimated $1 million per year in fuel for student transportation.

newsoptimist.ca

your news all the time and online

PAGE 10 - Tuesday, October 3, 2017

E NO.Across 757

Down sort 1. Amount of work 34. Hackneyed 10.Zilch 2. Make, as money 33.Aretha 35. Clearasil target Franklin hit 3. A nephew‚Äôs 36. 1973 Supreme Court 11.Snow coaster daughter (hyph.) decision name 36.Snare 19.Cut one’s 37. Length x width, for a 4. Film material 37.Bar 5.molars “10” music rectangle 39.Trait carriers 6. Holds up 38. Where thigh joins the 21.Spiders’ 7. Bunches abdomen 41.Turn over 8.structures Wet, as morning grass 39. Ashtabula’s lake quickly 9. .0000001 joule 40. Delicate 22.Angel’s 10. Jenny Lind, e.g. 42.Camp 41. Cost of living? headgear 11. Contemptible one helper, e.g. 42. Serf 23.Like some language 12. European 43. Alkaline liquid 43.Foal 13. Equal 44. Spicy white savory cheese 45.Prayer 19. ___ to riches sauce 25.Song 24. Southeast Asian dish concluder of 46. Convened bite sized meat 28.Commits 47. “Major” animal 49.Brewery 25. Call from the flock 48. Dearie perjury beverage 26. Drag one’s feet 51. Author Mark _____ 29.Skilled 50.Prosecute 27. Deck out 54. Blueprint 28. Harder to find 57. An actress noted for 30.Army eatery 51.Wish 29. Desktop pictures tragic roles 30. Bind 59. “I” problem 31. British government 60. Burglar Copyright © 2015, Penny 61. Qualities that Press make a 32. “Bye” in Spanish 33. Choppers, so to speak good character 28.Take it findTeresa, for one 36. Cigs 45. Devastated 62. Mother on the ____ 63. “Duck 46. Drooping 38. Small cave soup!” 55.Dogs and 48. Eye affliction 42. Like a collar 31.Made holy 64. Motorized cats scooters 49. Waste product of pro44. Aesop’s also-ran 65. Golf ball support

1. Chair part 4. Rub 10. Increase, with “up” 14. Propel, in a way 15. Portable drink containter 16. Had on 17. “___ we having fun yet?” 18. Hard work 20. Chain letters? 21. Cantankerous 22. Calculator, at times 23. Boris Godunov, for one 25. “Act your ___!” 26. Hospitals for treatment of chronic diseases 31. Congratulations, of a

Solution

SS dge’s ncern nal assent 32.Clan s 34.Turf aft animals 35.Stags and bucks t temper parts deratelyBy Josh38.Foot Greschner d Staff39.Polite Reporter chap cade unit 40.Winding Following are highort-term lightsjob from thecurves Battleford town council meeting 41.Coin sideof e ____ Sept. 18. 44.Hobo was ernate One delegation 46.MGM’s t thescheduled best from a resident who thought they had an trademark inordinately high 47.Glass water part gestbill. The resident submitmmal ted a letter48.Effortless to council but letter before se withdrew the 52.Resting council began. d bird 53.Act like Booking ice time and f of other twentyrecreational 54.Detective’s activi-

56.Fountain ____ 57.Young adult

tein metabolism 50. Comedian’s stock 51. Novice 52. Blubber

53. A chip, maybe 55. Chill 56. Corn ___r’s work 58. Beaver’s work

Battleford town council notes: Sept. 18 meeting ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 757

ties DOWN and events can now be Nov. 18-24 Multicultural day to the Chamber of done1. through Shy the town’s Week in Battleford. Commerce member who website with a program According to a letter sent was in attendance at coun2. MaxGalaxy. Woodsman’sAlong to council by Rhonda cil. called with theimplement arena, MaxGalaxy Rosenberg, executive Council voted to transcan 3. bookCaribbean, time for the Bat- director of the Multicultural fer $1,338,050 to reserves tlefords e.g. Flats and the Alex Council of Saskatchewan, for capital projects that Saskatchewan enacted weren’t completed for this Dillabough Centre. 4. Registers There were only two multicultural legislation year. Among some debuilding permits issued, in 1974, “recognizing ferred funds, $580,000 was 5. Close, once one 6. for Adjust a detached to garage the right of every citizen put in reserves for the town and another for a sunroom to retain its identity, hall brick preservation, addition.surroundings language, and traditional while a structural review Council 7. Unitdeclared of heatOcto- arts and sciences for the needed to take place beber 8. United Way Month. A mutual benefit of citizens.” fore brick work could start; Happen PUZZLE ANSWERS $200,000 was put in reflag raising will follow. CROSSWORD Councillor Judy Pruden USEwished AMERICAN SPELLING 9. Dates Council also declared a happy 29th birth- serves for architectural fees

Professional Business & Service Serving Our Rural Communities