news-optimist Regional
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Pride Week kicks off in the Battlefords
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
The colours of the rainbow filled the sky outside City Hall in North Battleford today as Battlefords Pride raised the Pride Flag for the launch of Pride Week.
City of North Battleford Deputy Mayor Bill Ironstand joined in the event to proclaim the week and wish everyone a happy Pride. The event also included a cake cutting to honour the occasion.
“North Battleford is a community moving towards inclusivity. Every person no matter [their] age, race, religion, or sexual orientation is welcome in our community,” Ironstand said. “We are going to do everything we can to support movements such as Pride, so that the whole community is accepting of it. We are going to attend a few of their amazing events throughout the week and enjoy ourselves.”
Both the City of North Battleford and the Town of Battleford are also members of the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities.
Ironstand said proclaiming the week as Pride Week is inline with the city’s mandate as an inclusive community.
“We do have a mandate to be an inclusive community,” he said. “We want to spread this [mandate] through the
whole North-West in the province and the world. Being inclusive is how we make our community and our world better. If we are accepting of others who seem to be different from us, we are also different from them. So, if we are just good people and we do things with a good heart, we can make things much better for all.”
With the Battlefords Pride committee, Kelly Waters said its integral the Battlefords have a Pride week to
increase awareness.
“There is still a lack of understanding, and a lack of awareness,” she said. “A lot of people are still not feeling safe to be their authentic selves. So, it’s really important to send the message that diversity is really important, inclusiveness is really important. The City and the Town have been really awesome for sending that message with us, and being very supportive. I’m really excited to kick the week off.”
One of the highlights of this year’s Pride Week festivities is a Pride-themed mural the community will have a chance to help create. The event will take place outside the Chapel Gallery in North Battleford from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 27 and 28.
Local artist Aleksi Ann designed the mural, which will be painted on the back of the Chapel Gallery building.
The various events planned for Pride Week also include:
A Karaoke Park Party from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., July 22 at the Lions Park Gazebo in Battleford.
A paint night is planned at ARC Creative Studios from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on July 23.
July 25 features a show called “Celine and Friends” at the Playhouse Theatre in Battleford.
A movie night at 8 p.m. on July 26 at the Capital Theatre, off 100 Street, features the film called “Bottoms.”
As well, a gender-affirm-
ing clothing swap will take place at the same event starting at 6 p.m. Then, Pride in the Park festivities take place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kinsmen Splash Park on July 27, including live music and other activities. The event also features jigging lessons and traditional games for the family.
The Pride Parade kicks off at 1 p.m. on July 27, starting at the North Battleford Library.
City of North Battleford Deputy Mayor Bill Ironstand and Coun. Kent Lindgren join Battlefords City of North Battleford Deputy Mayor Bill Ironstand, centre right, and Coun. Kent Lindgren, centre, join the Battlefords Pride committee and supporters outside City Hall Monday to launch Pride Week. (Photo by Angela Brown/SaskToday)
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U19 Bandits host provincials July 12-14, three other Bandits teams compete at events
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A five-team round-robin event, that included Regina, Saskatoon, Unity, Lakeland Blaze, and the Battlefords Bandits, who hosted U19 provincials in the Battleford Flats, resulted in the Bandits earning themselves a trip to Western Canadian championships upcoming in Irma Alberta, August 8-11.
Nicole Beausoleil, assistant coach with the team said, “We defeated Unity Panthers in the semi-final moving on to the gold medal game against Lakeland Blaze. While we didn’t win that final game, both teams will represent at the U19 Western Canadian Championship as Teams Saskatchewan One and Two.”
Coaches say the team is going to take a few days off to rest and then will return to the practice field twice a week to prepare for the upcoming Western Canadian
Championships.
“Crowds were very good and the semi-final game boasted the largest crowd the Flats has seen in a long time,” added Beausoleil.
Organizers of the Softball Sask event said rains posed a challenge throughout the weekend.
Heavy rain on July 11 forced the host committee and the Flats diamond crew to move diamonds as Diamond Two had too much water. Two games were played on the alternate diamond and then moved back to the main diamond.
Rains once again challenged organizers July 13 for the last round robin game however with much preparation work for playoff Sunday, diamond two was back in good shape.
Beausoleil acknowledged, “The crew had to provide diamond prep twice during the July 13 game due to continued rain and it was some
great effort from the U19 dads and Battlefords Bandits head coach, Darren Russell, as well as Battlefords Flats grounds manager, Heath Gabruck.”
There are three other Bandits softball teams that have and will compete for a provincial title.
The Battlefords Bandits U17A team competed in an eleven-team provincial event in Regina July 12-14 however they were unable to capture a playoff spot, thus ending their season.
The U15 Battlefords Bandits will compete July 19-21 in Prince Albert, facing off against 16 other teams for a provincial title.
The U13 B provincial championship was held in Estevan, July 12-14, with the Battlefords Bandits competing against 20 other teams, in four pools. The team earned first in their pool however were unable to advance out of the first round of playoffs.
Beavers look to defend NSRBL title, playoffs ongoing
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The North Battleford Beavers senior men’s baseball team are seeking to repeat as North Saskatchewan River Baseball League champions.
The 14-2 Beavers opened their playoff series against Glaslyn Orioles.
Playoff season began July 15, however, the Beavers opening game was hampered by rain. July 16 and 17 would be games one and two and if game three was needed it would be set.
The Beavers soundly defeated Glaslyn in game one by a score of 15-4, with game two in Glaslyn July 18 being
won by a score of 12-2. This advances the Beavers to the league semi-final, opponent not yet determined.
In other playoff matchups, the Unity Cardinals, the number two seed, would square off against familiar rivals, 7th place Wilkie Brewers. Standard Hill Lakers, Mervin Flyers, Lashburn Cardinals and
Battlefords Beavers baseball teams competing in provincial quests
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Varying divisions of baseball under the Battlefords Beavers’ banner will be competing for a Baseball Sask. provincial title upcoming in the last two weeks of July. Baseball Sask posted on their website, “First and foremost, Baseball Sask. would like to thank all of our Division Supervisors and Playoff Committee for all of their hard work and long days and nights in putting together rankings for almost 320 teams who have entered 2024 Provincial Championships. This is a record number of teams, and all of these volunteers are doing this to provide a great experience for all players, coaches, families and friends. It is not a perfect system, especially with all the rainouts to date not allowing as many game results as we would have liked.”
Battlefords Beavers 11U AA team will compete in an 8-team event in the Tier 3 division, playing in the host
Lloydminster Twins would be the other four teams playing off for semi-final spots.
The semi-finals and finals are also a best-of-three series.
Team MVPs in the NSRBl were named Andrew Hudec for the North Battleford Beavers; Cory Wildeman for the Unity Cardinals; TJ Hoogsteen for the Wilkie Brewers
community of Muenster July 19-21.
The Battlefords will be the host community for the 11U AA Tier 7 provincial championship, with 8 teams competing for the title July 19-21 weekend.
Teams competing will include two SFG Steelers teams, Coner and Badniski, along with Saskatoon Alpha A’s, Maidstone Lakers, Lumsden Cubs, Edam Blue Sox and Prince Albert Royals.
The 15U AA Tier 2 provincial championship will include the Battlefords Beavers, playing in Moose Jaw July 19-21.
The 15U AA Tier 4 championship will also include a Battlefords Beavers team, competing in Prince Albert July 19-21.
The Battlefords will also be the host community for the 18U AA Tier 1 provincial championship July 26-28 weekend, while Unity will play host to the 18U AA Tier 4 Baseball Sask. championship the same weekend.
and Glaslyn Orioles player Trayton Troesch. All other team winners are listed on the league website.
Andrew Hudec had a .571 batting average in 56 at-bats this season, leading the league stats. With Bob Hudec right behind him batting .500 in 50 at-bats.
Gavin Nolin led the league
While the senior men’s baseball draws are not all yet listed on the provincial website, Unity Cardinals know they are hosting the Senior AA Tier 2 championship August 9-11.
All senior men’s provincial events are held that same weekend and it is known the Battlefords Beavers will be playing in Unity, along with Lashburn, and Standard Hill. North Battleford Beavers played host to the Maxi +35 and Mini +35 provincial championships July 5-7. The Beavers made it to the semi-finals but were unable to advance.
In other baseball news, the Battlefords Beavers sat atop of the North Saskatchewan River Baseball League standings and were defeated by the Glaslyn Orioles, moving them on to league semi-finals, awaiting their opponent. The Beavers are the reigning NSRBL champions.
Announced July 21, 11U Battlefords Beavers Team George are the 2024 provincials champions in 11U tier 3.
pitchers with three wins and an ERA of 1.46 https://hometeamsonline.com/teams/default. asp?u=NSRBL&s=baseball&p=schedule&gametype=12
The Beavers have also learned their quest for a provincial title will take place in Unity in early August.
The U19 Bandits earned themselves a trip to Western Canadian championships upcoming in Irma Alberta, Aug. 8-11. Photo courtesy Battlefords Minor Softball Association
Announced July 21, 11U Battlefords Beavers Team George are the 2024 provincials champions in 11U tier 3. Photo courtesy Battlefords Minor Baseball.
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Trump Syndrome
By R.H.Wood.
North Battleford
Many years ago when I was young, the phrase “to clip someone’s ear” meant to knock bluster and steam out of someone. I can’ t find this definition anywhere on the internet which divides ear clipping into an act of violence or endearment if reduced to mere fondling.
According to Mr. Trump, he took “a bullet for democracy”. He categorizes his salvation as divine intervention and a blessing – so much for bluster and humility and his ability to turn even this assassination attempt into self-aggrandizement. Like millions I awaited his revised, rewritten and newborn speech with bated anticipation. It lasted 92 minutes, far exceeding my patience and attention span to such a degree I went for
a neighbourhood ramble to find him still rambling on my return.
The problem is, by what values does one decide for whom to vote and support i.e. Mr. Trump or Mr. Biden. But wait a minute–it is not for us to decide, it is for the Americans to do so. Why are we spending so much time on this issue? Well, the answer is that this country’s defence and economy are about to be hugely affected by the next presidential choice. If Mr. Trump and J.D. Vance are elected, this country will be seriously and negatively impacted.
Mr. Trump has clearly indicated that under him foreign aid in the form of finance and weaponry will be reviewed and curtailed. He boasts he will “end wars with a single phone call” – in the case of Ukraine, I can well see this happening. As for imports, to advance his made in America program, he will bring in swinging import levies with little care which countries will be affected. Because of our failure to reach our 2% NATO target, you can be sure – in fact we have already been clearly so warned that this country will be singled out. The foolishness of our fiscal policies over the last nine years will come home to roost with a vengeance. At this very point on Sunday morning as I was writing this letter, I learned that Mr. Biden is not going to seek re-election. Under the
American constitution, he can remain in the presidency until mid-January i.e. for another six months. This is quite unlike what happened when Seamus O’Regan, our minister of labour, was here today and gone tomorrow. He resigned citing family reasons and was replaced instantly.
Returning to Mr. Trump, it has occurred to me that a new clinical condition is
Letter to Editor
becoming apparent which in his memory will be known as the Trump Complex or Syndrome. This is a perception problem wherein actuality and imaginings meld into semi-permanent reality. Mr. Trump is constantly accused of hyperbole and inexactitudes or worse especially by Mr. Biden. This propensity is explained by this new concept. The condition is non-hereditary. It is high-
ly contagious and spreads readily especially at crowd events and political rallies. It requires much further study – perhaps Kamala with her extensive background in law, interpersonal relationships and strict rectitude may be able to help. As for expressing a personal predilection between Donald and Kamala for the presidency, I have no wish to invoke metaphoric auricular appendage clipping.
The leaders of the so-called free world piously cry that we cannot condone violence towards public figures.
True enough, but while they are almost conferring an almost martyrdom on the almost victim of an almost assassin, they conveniently forgot that to himself often encourages violence.
Such ballyhoo, although appropriate, one might say, is quite literally hypocrisy. No doubt some of those leaders are thinking “Damn! He missed!”
Nevertheless, it could wash a crook straight into the White House. Oh, the Great Republic! Christine Pike
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Battleford Flats to see new announcer’s booth
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
There will be a new attraction to see at the Battleford Flats now that plans are in place to build a new announcer’s booth.
The topic was discussed at the recent town council meeting.
Battlefords Minor Softball will build the structure so there will be no cost to the town. Since the town owns the property, it needed to give its approval for Battlefords Minor Softball to undertake the project. Minor Softball hope to complete the booth by the end of the summer.
The town and Battlefords Minor Softball will both look after maintaining it after it’s built.
The booth will be built at the Marilyn O’Driscoll Field, located on Diamond 2 at the Battleford Flats. The structure will be 20 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 16 feet high. Battlefords Minor Softball have requested exclusive use of the bottom of the booth for storage and to advertise sponsors on the outside. The top portion will be available for use by other organizations and teams upon request to the town.
“I think this whole project is very exciting,” Mayor Ames Leslie said. “For years, baseball has had the Beaver Lions Stadium in North Battleford, which is considered a premier place to play the game of baseball. Softball has never really had that. Then, the evolution here of the new Mar-
ilyn O’Driscoll Field, and a scoreboard, and now the announcer’s booth to make this a premier tournament championship diamond is exciting.”
He said the board, committee and volunteers continue to do a great job for the community.
“The town is willing to help but they’ve been doing this all on their own,” Leslie said. “We’re grateful anytime residents and groups want to do their part to beautify our community.”
Leslie said Battlefords Minor Softball wants to make it a “championship diamond facility.”
“It’s just to add another level of prestige to the games that are already happening,” he said.
“We have some of the best
teams in this province and some of the best youth athletes in the game of softball. It just gives them another stadium to play in, to add that extra level, and maybe attract more players to come here and play for the teams as well.”
Coun. David George was excited about the project.
“It will be appeasing to all the people down there that have wanted something like that for a lot of years,” he said. “I congratulate everyone involved that they are doing it.”
Coun. Alexis Christensen was also thrilled to hear about the initiative.
“Hats off to the organizers, the coaches, and people that have the passion to be able to do things like this. It wouldn’t happen otherwise.”
North Stars coach Klimosko moving home to Humboldt Broncos
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
In a July 16 media release, the Sask. Junior Hockey League announced that Brayden Klimosko has been named as the next head coach and GM of the Humboldt Broncos.
Klimosko is entering his seventh season as a head coach with an SJHL team, taking over the role vacated by Scott Barney.
The Battlefords North Stars benefited from Klimosko’s leadership since he accepted his first head coaching position with the team in 2018. His playoff record is the highest of any North Stars Coach, boasting a 33-
11-3 record.
Klimosko was born and raised in Humboldt, playing his minor hockey years there eventually leading to a three-season stint with the Humboldt Broncos, winning two SJHL Championships and one National Championship. He also served for three seasons as assistant coach of the Broncos from 2013 to 2016 before transitioning to the Stars.
As stated in the SJHL media release, Klimosko said, “It’s something I always dreamed of. It’s really exciting to now coach the team I grew up watching and played for. It’s a special moment for me and my family. To get to be around my friends and
family again and coaching the Broncos is a dream come true.”
Klimosko was named as the SJHL Coach of the Year three times as well as the 2023 CJHL Coach of the Year.
The North Stars website included a statement from the team’s President, Kyle Kellgren, “It’s always hard to lose an incredible coach like Brayden, we wish nothing but the best for him and his family and thank him for the six outstanding years he gave the club.”
“I would like to thank the Battlefords North Stars organization for an unforgettable six years! The North Stars gave me the opportunity to
be a head coach in this league and I will forever be thankful,” said Klimosko on his time in North Battleford. “I would like to thank the board, my staff over the seasons, Marty and Jay in the booth, the fans and of course all the players who wore black and silver during my time here. You have all truly made this one of the best places to play Junior A hockey in North America,” stated Klimosko in a statement on the team’s website following the announcement of his move.
Fans offered their appreciation, accolades and thanks to Klimosko and his family on the North Stars social media page that announced the move.
Struggling with a Cyanotype Print
By Bonnie Davis-Schmitz
Today I am struggling with a cyanotype print. For those who aren’t familiar with the process, cyanotype prints are a type of monochrome print made from exposing a prepared surface to sunlight. I print on watercolour paper and vibrant blue prints are the result – when I. do it properly! The basic process is relatively simple – you coat a surface with cyanotype solution, arrange a composition and put it out in the sunshine. Even children can print successfully using already prepared paper. The fun comes in discovering the range of possible surfaces, creating satisfactory compositions, understanding exposure times and exploring effects possible through bleaching and toning.
My challenge this morning is with exposure times. I’m using a photo negative and over-exposed my print with my first try – although I did have fun experimenting with bleaching and toning methods. Unfortunately, the print was not usable in the end. By cutting the exposure time down dramatically (and anxiously watching the timer), I finally got a print that worked! I have not decided whether I will try altering the print by bleaching or toning! Maybe next time, I will share that process! For more information please email: battlefordsartclub@gmail.com
RCMP investigate rollover that left North Battleford area man dead
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
Battlefords RCMP are investigating a rollover that left one man dead.
On July 15 at about 8:15 p.m., RCMP received a report of a single-vehicle rollover on Highway 378, one kilometre east of Highway 4.
Officers immediately responded.
One occupant was declared deceased by EMS at the location. He has been identified as a 32-year-old man from the NorthBattleford area. His family has been notified.
Another adult male occupant was taken to hospital with injuries described as serious in nature.
Battlefords RCMP continue to investigate with assistance from a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.
What A Time We Had!
itors!
What a time we had! Sixteen members of the Battlefords Art Club presented their wares at the Chapel Gallery on July 11th & 12th. Lots of stories were told and friendships were made. A success indeed!
Many thanks are given to: Leah Garven for fitting our show into the Gallery between exhibitions!
Emily Jung and Marilyn Richardson for the musical entertainment! Our 115 vis-
Sunshine Acres Greenhouse for the donation of potted plants for decoration!
The estate of Irene Slotzer for donations of her art!
The many artists that provided donations for door prizes! Our many volunteers for making it all possible! I’m already excited for next year! For more information regarding the Battlefords Art Club please email: battlefordsartclub@gmail.com
A Canotype print. Photo by Bonnie Davis- Schmitz.
Photos submitted by Jean Dunn
Submitted by Jean Dunn
Battlefords area pride shines bright with 9th annual pride week
Submitted by Kelly Waters
Battlefords Area Pride
Battlefords Area Pride is gearing up to host their 9th annual local Pride Week July 22–28. As with many smaller communities around the province, Battlefords Area Pride hosts a local Pride Week separate from the Pride Month of June so as to not put local folks in the position of having to choose between smaller local events and larger city events in Saskatoon or Regina. With the support of generous sponsors, Battlefords Area Pride is able to host numerous events free of charge to the public or at low cost. It is important to the organization that socio-economic status not be a barrier. It is also important to Battlefords Area Pride to offer several family-friendly events where all ages of participants are welcome. Without the ongoing committed support of the Town of Battleford and the City of North Battleford, local Pride Week would certainly look much different. Both the Town and the City have demonstrated unwavering support over the past several years, easing the facilitation of logistics when planning Pride events.
This year’s schedule for Pride Week includes some popular repeat events and some exciting new events. Repeating tradition from previous years, Pride Week kicks off in front of the North Battleford City Hall with a formal flag raising. On Monday July 22 at 11:30 a.m., anyone is welcome to pop by, honour the Pride flag, and snack on FREE cake. Later that day, starting at 6 p.m., Karaoke is being offered in the Gazebo of the Historic Battlefords Lion Club Park located on 22nd Street in downtown Battleford. DJ Marc will be leading the event inviting anyone interested to bring their singing voice up to the microphone.
saying “I have been dreaming of doing this since we moved here!”
Wednesday night, July 24, sees a repeat of a successful event from last year; FREE swimming at the Battlefords Co-Op Aquatic Centre starting 5:30 p.m.
Thursday night July 25 is a 19+ Drag Show event “Celine & Friends” starting at 7 p.m. at the Battleford Community Players ‘Playhouse Theatre’ . The Playhouse Theatre is located in Battleford at 102-26th Street. Originally hailing from the Battlefords, drag
Tuesday evening, July 23, is an inspired event new to the Pride Week line-up of activities. Local artist, Aleksi Ann, is leading a paint night at ARC Creative Studios located at 1102B-101st Street starting at 7 p.m. The fee to participate is $25 a person; a fee lower than typical when using acrylic paints on canvas. Everyone participating will have the opportunity to create their own masterpiece featuring our beloved local landmark, the water tower. Aleksi identifies as a Saskatchewan-Queer artist who calls North Battleford home. If interested, please register in-advance as supplies will be purchased with the number of participants in mind. There are a few options to register for this event. Tickets may be purchased online through Eventbrite under the title “Pride Paint Night”. Alternatively, contact the Battleford Pride Facebook page to express interest as tickets may be purchased by E-transfer or cash.
star Celine Dejion is a born performer who has worked hard to home her craft in sewing, stage stunts, and live performance. For this fabulous event, Celine has handpicked guest performers. AnnLynne Mokho, of Saskatoon, is a first-generation proud Filipina. Amy Grant, also of Saskatoon, was crowned Miss Divas Gay Saskatoon 2016 and Saskatchewan’s Next Drag Superstar 2018. Desiré Devine, a 2Spirit Metis trans queen of Kelowna B.C., has been performing drag in the Edmonton scene for the past five years. Saya Hilbrem, of North Battleford, is known for dazzling their audiences with various forms of flow art and high energy dance. $20 tickets for this event are available online through Eventbrite under the title “Celine & Friends” or by contacting Battlefords Pride on social
media.
Friday night, July 26, sees a former event return and an amazing new event arrive; FREE movie night coupled with a Gender Affirming Clothing Swap. Both events are being hosted in the Old Capital Theatre on the corner of 100th Street and 11th Avenue. From 6–8 p.m., Battlefords Area Pride is hosting their first Gender Confirming Clothing Swap. Autumn Laing-LaRose contacted Battlefords Area Pride hoping to co-organize a clothing swap event as she has successfully organized similar events in Saskatoon. Autumn moved to the Battlefords recently with her wife who is from the area. Local Pride was thrilled to take her up on this offer as it’s an event that they have wanted to host but hadn’t had anyone championing until now. Autumn is really excited for this event
For transgender and gender nonconforming folks, gender affirming clothing and accessories can provide joy and a sense of belonging. It is also sometimes challenging to build a whole new wardrobe making a clothing swap an ideal opportunity for many. Anyone interested in donating clothing or accessories, please drop off clean gently used items to collection boxes outside of 191-21st Street in Battleford or 851A-110th Street in North Battleford by 4 p.m. on July 26th. It is also fine to drop items off shortly before the start of the event on July 26th at the Old Capital Theatre where volunteers will be busy setting everything up for FREE ‘shopping’! When this event ends at 8 p.m., stick around the theatre as Battlefords Area Pride is offering a FREE movie night featuring the queer-friendly film “Bottoms”. Note that this movie is rated R. Saturday, July 27th, a day of festivities begins at 1 p.m. outside of the North Battleford Public Library located at 1392-101st Street. The annual informal Pride Parade where participants are invited to walk, ride, or drive will depart from the library ending at Kinsmen Spray Park off 18th Avenue near 93rd Street. Battlefords Area Pride is honoured to have a special guest Grand Marshal leading the parade, Miki Mappin. Miki is a known activist and artist out of Saskatoon. Local Pride appreciated Miki’s presence at the Bill 137 protest outside of Jeremy Cockrill’s office last September. Miki
not only drove all the way from Saskatoon to show support, she brought along a portable speaker with microphone and spontaneously led the crowd in chanting, inviting folks in attendance to share personal stories at the microphone. Miki is a force to be reckoned with! Anyone is welcome to come out and participate. At Kinsmen Spray Park, from 2–8 p.m., Battlefords Area Pride is hosting a family-friendly outdoor celebration “Pride in Park”. Attendees can expect FREE face painting with Brenda, balloon creations with McTwisty Balloon Art, local artist Holly Hildebrand leading an interactive arts project, Lamarr Oksasikewyin sharing Traditional Games experiences, bouncy castles from Cool Castles, and magic with Dr. Von Houligan. Look for vendors as Kaze Productions out of Prince Albert, Yarn Sisters out of Lloydminster, local beading artist Alyssa Anderson, Gail’s Crochet Creations, True Romance with Randi, Nailed It Crystals and Metaphysical, Violet’s Enchanted & Crafted, Eston’s Crazy Corn, and the kids from Cotton Fruit selling cotton candy. Also look for information booths from organizations as North West College, the Battleford Indian & Metis Friendship Centre, the Prairie Community Coalition, and local SK NDP candidate Tom Kroczynski. If anyone is interested in purchasing Pride flags and t-shirts, Battlefords Area Pride will also have a table at the event. Under Dr. Von Hooligan’s colourful big top circus tent, look for live entertainment
Continued on page 7
Lamarr Oksasikewiyin,Traditional Indigenous Games facilitator
Miki Mappin, guest Grand Marshal for the Parade standing in front of the Saskatoon Trans Van. | Photos courtesy Kelly Waters
Battlefords area pride
Continued from page 6 on stage throughout the event. Dr. Von Hooligan will be acting as the event’s MC and additionally wandering through the crowd sharing magic. The live entertainment begins at 2 p.m. with local Lance Whitecalf and Lance Campeau. This bluesy-styled duo is known affectionately as “The Lances”. Scheduled at 3 p.m. is a familiar Battlefords duo, Jackie K with Tom Kroczynski. Jackie is a multi-talented local artist known for her lifelong passion of music drawing inspiration from the prairies and it’s people infused with off-kilter charm story-telling. Jackie’s talented husband, Tom, is also our local SK NDP Candidate! With the recent Sask Government’s Bill 137 (also known as the parental rights bill) that Battlefords Area Pride feels attacks the rights of gender nonconforming youth, local Pride throws it’s strong support behind Tom’s candidacy.
Scheduled at 4 p.m., Battlefords Area Pride is thrilled to offer a special treat. Ashla Michel and Timothy Linklater are bringing their jigging expertise to the stage. Not only will they entertain the audience with their jigging skills, audience members will have the opportunity to take some quick lessons as part of the performance. Ashla is a world class jigging champion currently living in Prince Albert. Timothy, who also has numerous awards to his credit, is a member of the dance troupe “Creeland Dancers”.
5 p.m. showcases the up and coming Saskatchewan based band Skye Blue “whose roots stem from hiphop, campfire, jam sessions at festivals, folk music, and everything in-between.” 6 p.m. features the beloved local popular band “Gypsy Moonbirds”. This band has a long history of supporting the local Pride community. Audi Atcheynum, a member of the band, will also be working hard all day as the event’s sound technician ensuring all live stage entertainment shines.
Finally on stage at 7 p.m., a musical treat Lady T & Big Fat Calico Cat. Lady T, Terese Epp, is an established Saskatchewan artist with jazzy vibes that echo of New Orleans and the Deep South’; “Walk Tall” is her personal motto. Joining her on stage are respected Saskatchewan musicians Kevin Buehler on bass and Dirk de Boer on guitar. Many folks in the Battlefords area are familiar with Kevin as a member of the band “The Whiskey Jerks”. Dirk’s specialty, slide guitar, often lands him recording studio
gigs. And as if all this is not enough, Saturday July 27 and Sunday July 28 feature an extremely special project led by the same local artist as Paint Night, Aleksi Ann. On both these dates, from 9 a.m.–6 p.m., there is the unique opportunity for anyone interested to participate in the creation of community art. Aleksi has been busy creating a series of works featuring panoramic prairie scenes and rainbows. With support of the North Battlefords Public Library and the City of North Battleford, one of these works will become a mural on the
The Reading Place, Child and Youth Development by Reading Inc. is happy to receive a cheque from BATC CDC for the Cree Language Journey and First Nations Presentations programs. In picture: Board member Deborah Jackson, Board member Cheryl Carley and Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie. | Photo courtesy Cheryl Carley, CPA CGA (retired) President, The Reading Place
Youth facing charges in armed robbery in North Battleford
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
A teen is facing charges in an armed robbery in North Battleford.
On July 12 at about 3:15 p.m., Battlefords RCMP responded after receiving a report of a robbery on 107 Street. After investigating, police determined a man was out walking when a grey SUV approached him. A group of individuals, wearing black face masks and armed with
machetes and a firearm exited the SUV and approached the man. The suspects pointed a firearm at him and demanded his wallet. The man did not report any physical injuries to police.
Later, while responding to a call for service in the 4th Avenue area in Battleford on July 14, Battlefords RCMP noticed one of the suspects in the robbery and arrested him.
A 17-year-old male youth from North Battleford is charged with robbery with a
firearm; fail or refuse to comply; possess weapon contrary to order; pointing a firearm; possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose; and unauthorized possession of a firearm/prohibited weapon or restricted weapon.
The youth cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact their local detachment at 310-RCMP or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers.
back of The Chapel Gallery. Look for Aleksi on site behind The Chapel Gallery on one or both of these days where she will be ready to assign tasks!
More detailed information pertaining to specific events fill the Battlefords Pride social media pages with posts about local Pride Week plans. Anyone having further questions or interested in potentially volunteering can reach out via Messenger or contact Secretary of Battlefords Area Pride Week, Kelly Waters, she/her, at (306)481-3656. Happy Battlefords Pride Week 2024!
Aleksi Ann, local artist leading paint night and the mural creation
Lady T, Terese Epp
Miki Mappin, guest Grand Marshal for the Parade
RemovalofCarbonTax Leadsto Lowest Inflation Rate
Sask atchewan’s inflation rate in June 2024 was1.4%, tied forthe lowest amongthe provinces andabout half thenationalrateof2.7%. Having thelowestinflationrateinCanadadirec tly resultsfromour government ’s refusaltocollect andremit thecarbontax.Our government will continue providingrelieffor families andalwaysstand up forthe Sask atchewan people.
Hon. Jeremy Cockrill, MLAfor TheBattlefords office@jeremycockrill.ca
306-445-5195
Meota News
Sailing lessons put on by Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail
Submitted
by
Trudy Janssens
Summer in Meota is as busy as ever. This week we were all treated to the spectacle of sailboats out on the lake. It was a wonderful learning experience for the seven people who took the lessons. Some of them were thankful for the calm winds, while others were disappointed that the winds were non-existent at times.
The instructors used the time wisely, by teaching more theory than normal. One spectator told me, if you want a calm week in Meota, book sailing lessons and there will be no wind! Apparently our calm week was nothing new and it’s likely why so many have embraced kayaking and standup paddle boards.
Since the reintroduction of sailing lessons two years ago, 26 people have learned the basics of sailing. We look forward to seeing Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail members taking out a few of the five Labor Ones that the club owns.
Head Coach Dan Lazerty is with Sask Sail and comes all the way from Australia. Assistant Coach Luke Forer works with Sask Sail all summer and comes from Vancouver. Elenie Lyle is from Asquith and her dad is the president of Sask Sail. Participants come from all over the province but this year five of the students are members of MLPS.
Sailing Director Patrick Eckerman made it for most of the week but work commitments meant he had to go back to B.C. Thankfully Dryden Kalesnikoff and Trudy Janssens were able to handle any concerns on the part of MLPS.
This is the 60th year for The Battleford’s Sailing Club / Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail. We are planning to celebrate this milestone Aug. 24. All previous members of the sail club are invited to attend. There will be an open microphone and hopefully everyone will come with their favourite memories. More details to come as the plans take shape.
The Meota Lakeshore Lions successfully pulled off their annual Pasta Night this past Saturday. It’s always excellent food, and lots of fun entertainment. The silent auction did not disappoint. Community support for the Lions is strong, especially since the community can see firsthand all the worthwhile projects the Lions contribute to.
Keegan Isaac started the evening off with several of his favourite songs. Keegan’s life is music. He once said he was born in the wrong era because he particularly enjoys old-time music. He shared why he’s bringing in a Big Band to preform with him Aug. 17 at the Meota Community Complex. Posters are up and Charles has tickets available; call 306-713-1901.
Keagan was followed by Dave Tuplin. It’s incredible how technology has helped talented singers to step up and share their talent. We all get nervous that something can go wrong but it’s those fearless performers who carry through and, in the end,
never disappoint.
Jo Carter, Annette Duhaime and Lynn Heltman shared their talents from the ladies’ perspective. It’s obvious these three women sing together regularly and love it. They are part of the Battleford Blend.
The evening was wrapped up by Meota’s own Beach Boys. Stephen Carter, Charles Baillargeon, Mark Chapman and Lawrie Ward have been singing together for many years. Practice pays off and the harmonies came together. This group has a knack for choosing music that never disappoints.
Pulling together all the entertainers for a couple of final songs brought the evening to a close. We owe a big shoutout to Joe Fransoo for keeping the evening on track. The audience appreciates all the hard work and dedication the Lions do every year for our community.
Stephan Carter, Charles Baillargeon, Keegan Isaac, Dave Tuplin, Mark Chapman, Lawrie Ward, Annette Duhaime, Lynn Heltman and Jo Carter doing the wind-up song The Wellerman Come at the Meota Lions’ Pasta Night.
Sailing lessons in Meota: back row, Dan Lazerty (head instructor from Australia), Justin Weiler, Joanna Jones, Anna-Luiza Yuliya, Luke Former (assistant coach), and Noah Wagner; front row, Amy Zhao, Liesel Weiler, Elena Lyle (assistant coach) and Rylan Wagner | Photos submitted by Trudy Janssens
It was a wonderful learning experience for the seven people who took the lessons last week in Meota.
Ag productivity gets $5M boost
By Ryan Kiedrowsk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The World Spectator
REGINA — Accelerated breeding is nothing new to the world of agriculture, but a homegrown initiative just received a big financial boost.
The Global Institute for Food Security operates at the University of Saskatchewan, and their accelerated breeding program received a $5 million commitment from Farm Credit Canada.
“For those who are being introduced to our organization for the first time, we were founded as a unique industry government academic partnership in 2012,” explained Steve Webb, CEO of GIFS.
“Our mission is to work with partners to discover, develop, and deliver innovative solutions for the production of globally sustainable food. I’m especially excited that we’re here at Canada’s Farm Show in Regina, which serves as a great reminder about why we do the work and who we do it for: Canadian farmers. And in particular, growers here in Saskatchewan, in Western Canada, where we produce some of the world’s most sustainable products and agricultural commodities in the world.”
The newly minted FCC Accelerated Breeding Program at GIFS seeks to increase yields for crop and livestock breeding, using
such technologies as genomic selection, speed breeding, bioinformatics and computer simulations.
“We are proud to be part of Canada’s innovation ecosystem that is helping bring new tools and solutions to growers to build on these results and further enhance economic, environmental, and social sustainability of the entire agri-food system,” said Webb. “We have the opportunity today to reimagine how partnerships and collaboration can accelerate the velocity of innovation, the opportunity to bring even more new tools and technologies to enhance agriculture and food.”
Justine Hendricks, FCC president and CEO, spoke of
the great work done at GIFS, highlighting the importance of it happening in Saskatchewan.
“It is a key pillar of our strategy with FCC’s investment of $5 million,” she said. “We are excited to support research and help enhance the future of food security. It’s about partnering with producers and industry to find innovative solutions that will ensure the crops grown and livestock raised are focused on today, tomorrow, and the well being of generations to come. Leveraging innovative solutions is not new to our industry, certainly not new to this province, and Canada has long been a global leader in sustainable production.”
Previous to her role at
FCC, Hendricks worked with Export Development Canada, giving her more insight into the issue of food security on a global scale than the average individual.
“This partnership is about collaboration, and investing in impactful innovation,” Hendricks said. “It’s an opportunity to leverage our industry’s knowledge and new technology to address the challenges producers face.
The accelerated breeding program brings together cutting edge science and practical agricultural knowledge. It will bring new crop varieties and livestock genetics to producers and other stakeholders much faster, which will stimulate rural economic growth and increased revenue.”
With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, being proactive about food security is crucial. Currently, food demand has risen by 60 per cent, making projects like the accelerated breeding program more important than ever.
“The program will make food production more efficient, sustainable, and adaptable to the world’s evolving needs,” explained Hendricks. “Agriculture and food needs all of us supporting with our voices and investments to realize the change the world needs and keep Canada at the forefront of agricultural excellence. So looking ahead, we envision a future where our efforts today lay the foundation for new and innovative solutions that will drive increased productivity, economic growth, and further advanced sustainable production practices to feed Canada and the world. This partnership is a critical step towards that future.”
Provincial agriculture minister David Marit was also on hand for the announcement, beginning with sentiments of appreciation.
“On behalf of the farmers and ranchers of this province, thank you very much for this investment into the ag sector here, not only in the province, Saskatchewan, but all of Canada,” he said.
A founding partner of GIFS, the Government of Saskatchewan announced a
large monetary injection of its own earlier this year, some $15 million over five years.
“This announcement today only enhances the value of the Global Institute for Food Security, and we’re very fortunate and grateful to have FCC as a partner,” Marit said.
“This province is a global leader in agri-food research and production. Over the last five years, we’ve invested almost $52 million into crop related research through the Agriculture Development Fund alone. That’s the kind of support that helps our producers stay competitive and profitable in the international markets. That work can and does have a tremendous impact in Saskatchewan, and arguably around the world.”
Marit also noted how farmers in Saskatchewan— as well as agri-food stakeholders—“need that advantage.”
“It’s an advantage that enables them to continue setting the pace and development of new crop varieties in genetics,” he said. “That advantage helps to clear the ground for commercialization and increase competitiveness.”
Marit also referenced some of the goals in the growth plan, including an increased crop production to 45 million metric tonnes, livestock cash receipts to $3 billion, tripling the growth of the Saskatchewan tech sector, and growing provincial agri-food exports to over $20 billion.
Continued on page 19
With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, being proactive about food security is crucial, officials with the FCC Accelerated Breeding Program say. | Photo by Jannis Knorr/Pexels
Heat accelerates crop development
SaskToday.ca
REGINA — A week of warmer weather and reduced rainfall has accelerated crop advancement and enabled haying operations to progress throughout the province.
With the forecasted heat over the next week many regions are hoping for moisture to help support crop development, reduce crop stress and sustain topsoil moisture conditions.
Many areas across the province received reduced to trace amounts of moisture, but a few isolated storms did move through the province and brought hail, wind and heavy rainfall. The highest rain recorded over the past week was in the Macklin area at 48 mm. This was followed by the Arborfield area at 40 mm. The Duck Lake and Choiceland areas received 33 mm.
southeast, are reporting minor to moderate crop damage in relation to lack of moisture occurring within these regions. The increased heat that is forecasted will cause further crop deterioration if moisture is not received. Additional crop damage this past week is mainly due to gophers, grasshoppers, hail, heat and wind. Overall, pest pressure is remaining lower throughout many regions, but producers are continuing to monitor their fields for any changes. Fungicides are continuing to be applied to either suppress disease
that has already developed or proactively to reduce disease development.
Over the upcoming weeks, producers will be busy finishing fungicide spraying, haying operations and getting equipment ready for harvest. Producers are reminded to keep safety top of mind while working. For any crop or livestock questions, producers are encouraged to call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre, Toll Free: 1-866-457-2377.
A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online.
Reduced precipitation and increased temperatures continue to reduce topsoil moisture throughout the province. Currently, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as four per cent surplus, 77 per cent adequate, 17 per cent short and two per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is reported at three per cent surplus, 76 per cent adequate, 18 per cent short and three per cent very short. Pasture topsoil moisture is three per cent surplus, 71 per cent adequate, 22 per cent short and four per cent very short.
Recent warmer weather has allowed for quicker crop development with more crops moving closer to their normal stages of development as compared to previous weeks. Ninety per cent of fall cereals are at normal stages of development for this time of year. Sixty-eight per cent of spring cereals are at normal stages of development,
while 27 per cent are falling behind the normal stages of development. Sixty-six per cent of oilseeds are at normal stages of development, while 30 per cent are falling behind the normal stages of development. Seventy-eight per cent of pulse crops are at normal stages of development, while 18 per cent are falling behind the normal stages of development. Seventy-seven per cent of perennial forages and 76 per cent of annual forages are at the normal stages of development for this time of year. Currently, 26 per cent of the province’s first cut of hay has been baled or si-
laged with 32 per cent of hay cut and waiting to cure and 42 per cent still standing. Initial reports are estimating provincial hay yields at 1.73 tons/acre. This is above the five-year average of 1.01 tons/ac and the 10-year average of 1.13 tons/acre. Producers are estimating silage yield at 4.98 tons/acre. Overall hay quality is rated at 28 per cent excellent, 65 per cent good and seven per cent fair. Producers in some regions are not anticipating a second cut of hay this year unless rain is received. Producers in the southwest portion of the province, along with a few areas in the
Dry weather advances haying progress throughout the province. Photo courtesy Sask. Agriculture
Thousands of jobs and billions of dollars
SaskToday.ca
SASKATOON — A glowing new assessment report of the Crop Development Centre (CDC) at the University of Saskatchewan highlights the centre’s tremendous economic impact, including thousands of jobs and billions of dollars for Canada.
The CDC Economic Footprint Assessment prepared by EY (formerly Ernst and Young LLP) provides a detailed analysis of the centre in three distinct areas: economic contribution, return on investment (ROI) analysis, and socioeconomic benefits.
The results of the assessment showcased a remarkable level of output from the CDC in economic and research-focused areas.
“The remarkable and ongoing successes of the CDC are a confirmation of the world-class agricultural expertise at the university,” said Dr. Baljit Singh (PhD), USask’s vice-president research. “The researchers with the CDC are giving cutting-edge advantages to growers in Saskatchewan and around the world and continue to be what the world needs as we address feeding a growing population.”
Some of the key findings of the report highlighting the impact of the CDC include:
A tremendous return on investment – for every $1 invested by the CDC across all crop types, growers see an $11 benefit-cost return. The return was highest for lentil crops, at a benefit-cost return of more than $37 for every
$1 invested.
$1.2 billion in GDP contributed to Western Canada’s economy as of 2022 – a growth of more than $500 million since the last study in 2016
More than 500 varieties across over 40 kinds of crops developed and released from the CDC since its inception in 1971
More than 530 peer-reviewed publications produced from the CDC since 2016
More than 9,000 full-time jobs in Canada are estimated to be due to CDC plant breeding
A contribution of $17.8 billion in gross farm outputs from 1991 to 2022
The CDC at USask houses remarkable expertise in the areas of plant breeding and pathology, and uses state-ofthe-art technologies and scientific advances to improve crop varieties to support the agriculture industry and to generate returns for growers across Western Canada.
Dr. Curtis Pozniak (PhD), the director of the CDC, said the results of the report were “impressive and invigorating” for the entire CDC team.
“It’s humbling to work with such a fantastic group of scientists that believe in the mission and vision of the centre, in terms of commitment to advancing science and delivering that innovation through the release of productive field-ready cultivars that are adopted by growers,” he said.
In addition to the financial contributions of the CDC to
the Canadian economy, the assessment also highlighted the more than 428 students, alumni and faculty who trained at, or were involved with, the CDC and its research projects since it began in 1971. Many of those trained at the CDC have become leaders in the agricultural industry.
Scientific work conducted at the CDC is targeted at real-world impacts, not simply research for the sake of research. Pozniak referred to it as the extensive “innovation pipeline” developed by the CDC, as the centre focuses on research from inception to frontline industry professionals.
“Our research is deliberate, bold and strategic, and spans the continuum from the research lab all the way to farmers’ fields and ultimately to our dinner plates,” he said. “An important part of what we do so well is translating basic research into technologies and innovation that aligns with the needs of producers and consumers.”
The CDC is a unique centre for education, collaboration and scientific innovation – and while this Economic Assessment report showed tremendous growth and promise, the goal is to push ever onward.
“This report exemplifies the importance of the CDC, and our collective vision is to grow the centre more than it is, and to keep the momentum that started way back in 1971,” Pozniak said.
— Submitted by USask Media Relations
Photo by Scott Goodwill on Unsplash
Memorial held at Spiritwood for Csts. Robin Cameron and Marc Bourdages
By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent
The Prairies are so beautiful at this time of the year, adorned with wild flowers such as lilies, brown-eyed Susans, pink roses, fireweed, bluebells, etc., with shades of yellow, pink, red, blue and purples. What more could we want for a colourful landscape? Again it’s nature’s “splendid glory.”
Spiritwood was very colourful July 8 with RCMP dressed in their uniforms and many Indian Reserve powwow dancers in their beautiful attire. This was a memorial for two RCMP members who passed away while on duty in an unfortunate incident near Spiritwood 18 years ago, July 15, 2006. Cst. Robin Cameron and Cst. Marc Bourdages were remembered at a free barbecue of hamburgers and hotdogs which served approximately 300 people at the memorial park which is named Cameron & Bourdages Park.
The RCMP recruiters were on hand and available to answer any questions regarding their vocation. There was free facepainting for children by Rachelle Swan and entertainment by powwow dance demonstrations. An excellent MC, Cal Arcand from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation kept the program running smoothly.
Grand entry honourees were Sgt. Andrews of the Spiritwood RCMP detachment and Chief Peter Bill of Pelican Lake First Nation. Andrews carried the Canadian flag while Cst. Allen carried the Saskatchewan provincial flag. The commonwealth flags were carried by the Pelican Lake First Nation Community Safety Patrol. These patrol members wear formal blue uniforms while RCMP are in red uniforms.
There were other digni-
taries who gave speeches on this hot summer day. During his comments, Sgt. Andrews honoured local volunteers Jason and Colleen Reddekopp who take excellent care of this memorial park. Others who received recognition for leadership were Elders Barney and Jane Tipewan from Witchekan Reserve.
Excellent skilled dancers included ladies’ jingle and fancy dance and men’s chicken, grass and traditional dance. The drum group was Iron Nation from Big River First Nation, who provided the soundtrack for all of the cultural dances. Cheyenne Fineday, a long-time local dancer, was spectacular with her dancing skills, along with many others.
To end the ceremony, most of us in the crowd joined the dancers in a big circle moving to their steps. Personally I like going to powwows to see the costumes and the dance talent.
Deepest sympathy to the three following families:
Farness; Woroch and Wyatt who all have connections to our community.
Henry Farness farmed in the Hatherleigh area for many years. He owned a caterpillar and backhoe and was kept very busy by surrounding farmers; Woloshyns were one of them. In his 80 years on earth he accomplished lots.
Eighty-three-year-old Agnes Woroch (née Soule) was born near Ruddell and married a farmer near Whitkow. They farmed for many years and later on, after husband Steve’s death, Agnes moved to Prince Albert to be closer to family. Her funeral was July 16 in North Battleford. Tommy Wyatt’s connection to Mayfair-Whitkow is because he married Christine Starycki, whose parents were Steve and Sally. Sally taught for many years at Mayfair Central School. Thomas of North Battleford (known by Tommy by close friends) was employed by Saskatchewan Highways as a heavy-duty
mechanic for 35 years. He was a young 73 years old.
All three people who recently passed away will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Last week I started a story on Doug Lamb (Meeting Lake ) so shall continue with a few more sentences on his Thickwood Trails Snowmobile Organization venture.
The Thickwood Hills Snowmobile Club started in 2003 after the Spiritwood Club dissolved. At this time the new club purchased Spiritwood’s snow groomer. Back then the trails were from Witchekan (north of Spiritwood) to Hatherleigh pasture. In the coming years way more trails were added.
In 2018-19, Doug Lamb was recognized as the “outstanding volunteer groomer operator” because of his outgoing personality, knowledge of the area and mechanical work, etc., which is paramount. On his appreciation day July 6, he made a few speeches, some being
humorous.
Lamb worked tirelessly alongside Stan Thul many times. On one occasion they were in the middle of a pasture 20 miles from anywhere in 20-below temperatures when Doug’s sled broke through the ice. Needless to say, he was drenched so he climbed onto Stan’s snowmobile and hung on, heading for shelter. By the time they arrived Doug’s arms were frozen in place around Stan. They can joke about this one incident now.
Lamb, as I stated, has good mechanical skills so was handy at doing repair breakdowns to the groomer along the trails. Wishing him many years of happiness and good health, although his wife Doreen is thinking now and again he will still want to assist the new guys taking over the many tasks required to keep a trail in safe/good condition.
Two-week swimming lesson sessions have wrapped up at Meeting Lake with a good enrolment. Many campers with young children took summer vacation so their kids could participate. The weather certainly co-operated as some beachgoers were sporting unsightly sunburns! Everyone has to be so cautious in extreme heat.
I was fortunate to have taken friends from British Columbia to Honeywood Nursery this past Sunday to tour the “Lilies in Bloom” event.
We went on the ever-so-popular wagon tour pulled by a small John Deere garden tractor, visited the great selection of outdoor vendors and listened to a wonderfully talented musical band from Debden.
It takes many volunteers to make this happen, from kitchen workers serving beef in a bun and those making the delicious apple or rhubarb crisp. There was lots
to purchase: many assorted plants and the creative vendors’ crafts.
The next event is scheduled for Sept. 15. Come see the beautiful landscape enveloped in its glorious red, orange and yellow colours. I have attended the September showing and do not want to miss this 2024 one as it is always an enjoyable day.
Honeywood Nursery is several miles on a grid road near Parkside (near Shellbrook). This weekend, July 26 and 27, Parkside is hosting a demolition derby/barrel race/slo-pitch tournament which starts apparently Friday evening. Gate admission is $10; 6-12 years, $5; under six-years-old, free. On Saturday, there is a a live DJ from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., must be 19 to attend and identification is required.
For more info, please call Derek Olson, 306-747-9114 or 306-747-2000, or go onto Facebook Parkside Delmolition Derby. Sounds like a fun-packed weekend.
Another great outing is the Leask, Marcelin, Aldina and Hafford self-guided art tour July 27 and 28. One can visit the many venues showcasing artists’ and crafters’ work. Contact 306-852- 9139 or go to www.12-40andbeyond.com or www.facebook. com/1240and beyond. Due to dry conditions no open fires are allowed in this province. Better to be safe than sorry. The smoke we are breathing in isn’t great for our lungs but it’s nice to be outdoors taking advantage of these hot summer days because they will not last forever. A good rain is needed as the crops and gardens (one can water gardens) are taking a beating in this extreme heat. Drink plenty of water and slather on that sunscreen whether working or enjoying outdoors – always wearing a sun hat or cap.
Spiritwood RCMP and First Nation ceremony, July 8, in memory of Csts. Robin Cameron and Marc Bourdages. Photos by Elain Woloshyn
Some of the dancers in the closing entrance at the Cameron & Bourdages Memorial Barbecue hosted by Spiritwood’s local RCMP detachment.
Kids enjoying Glenburn Regional Park (near Maymont) on a hot summer evening.
Maidstone bids farewell to community-minded couple
By Kathy Utri Correspondent
A wonderful farewell party for Morris and Noelle Coulthard took place July 16 at Maidstone Seniors Drop In Centre with about 50 people attending. The beautifully decorated event was organized by Jill Churn, Sharon Ruud and Sharon Weston with the Tuesday morning coffee ladies helping with the tea and providing lunch.
Morris and Noelle thoroughly enjoyed themselves and give a big thank-you to everyone who put it on and all who came. Morris and Noelle’s friendships in Maidstone spanned their involvement in a variety of groups including Kinsmen, bowling, golfing, church and seniors’ centre. They will never forget the people of Maidstone as they open a new chapter of their lives in Lloydminster.
Communities In Bloom Maidstone gives a huge thank-you bouquet to Noelle and Morris Coulthard for all their support through the years. From the petunia tree to the trailer, the lovely post office plantings to their generous donations for many years, all were truly appreciated and enjoyed by the community.
Maidstone Disc Golf had a couple new guys out which was nice to see. Week 12 averages: Tier 1 Matt Sayers -7.5, Tier 2 Andrew Williams +1, Tier 3 Noah Schempp +11.89.
Winning the “I Love Kickboxing” prize pack (tank top, fanny pack, water bottle and hat) was Cody Garnham. Chase James won the Innova Champion Plastic Valkyrie disc and donated it to one of the younger players who is just starting out. Those who paid into the ace pot have a chance to win a minimum of $100.
Despite smoke in the air and very hot temperatures, the Yellowhead Ramblers entertained a good-sized
Belgians and Percherons owned and raised by the Duhaime family from Paynton won several awards at the Calgary Stampede.
audience at Maidstone Museum last Sunday afternoon. They’ll be playing again July 28, Aug. 4 and Aug. 11 so come out to enjoy the music and socializing at 2 p.m. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. for tours. Admission is by donation. Refreshments are available to purchase.
Maidstone Minor Hockey registration deadline is coming up quickly. (Fees are not due until the fall meeting.) Go to their website or scan the QR code on Facebook to register. Registration will be closed as of Aug. 1 and late fees will apply. Email mmhockeyregistrar@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Reminders: Summer Reading Pro-
grams continue at both Maidstone and Lashburn libraries. Be sure to check out all the fun activities they have going on for children this summer.
Midwest Family Connections Park Program will be at Maidstone Splash Park July 30 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for parents and children ages 0-6.
Lashburn Outdoor Farmers Market is on Fridays from 12 to 6 p.m. at the curling rink on Second Street East and Silver Lake Market is on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the ball shelter at Silver Lake Regional Park north of Maidstone. Both are a short drive from Maidstone and have a terrific variety of vendors. Support your local growers and bakers, crafters and makers.
Communities in Bloom Maidstone has greatly benefited from the support and donations of Morris and Noelle Coulthard. (3 photos)
Farewell party held for Morris and Noelle Coulthard. | Photos submitted by Kathy Utri
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READ: Mr Wayne Read beloved husband of Mrs Elaine Read passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at the age of 83 years A Funeral Ser vice took place on Wednesday July 17 2024 at 10:30 a m at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Glaslyn SK In lieu of flowers memor ial donations in memor y of Mr Wayne Read can be directed to the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Glaslyn, SK Po Box 312 Glaslyn, SK S0M 0Y0 Left
and
(Br
(Jenessa)
River and Ruby; and Br ittany (Rylan) Jullion and their children Reid Paige and Graham; and Sherr y (Ken) Person and their children Thomas and Meghan (Brady), her cat companion Tabbie, her brothers: Russell (Jan) Kahl and Alvin (Vicki) Kahl; her sister-in-law: Lynn Kahl; her brother-in-law Peter (Irene) Sumlick; and sister-in-law Virgina Shumlich She is predeceased by: her husband John; her parents Fredr ick and Vera Kahl; her sister and brother-in-law Phyllis and Fred Engelking; her brothers Alan and Er vin Kahl; her nephew Shawn Kahl; her parents-in-law Tom and Annie Shumlich; her brother-inlaw Harr y Shumlich; and his son Wayne In lieu of flowers memor ial donations in memor y of Mrs Violet Shumlich can be directed to the BUH Foundation - Box 1358 Nor th Battleford, SK S9A 3L8 or the Canadian Cancer Societ y 200-325 Manning Road NE Calgar y AB T2E 2P5 Funeral arrangements have been entr usted to Eter nal Memor ies Funeral Ser vice & Cremator iumTrevor Watts Funeral Director
MCLEAN: With saddened hear ts, the family of Edythe McLean of Nor th Battleford, regretfully announce the passing of their mother and grandmother on Thursday July 11 2024 at the age of 87 Edythe was bor n and raised at Cando Saskatchewan As a young woman, she moved to Wilkie, Saskatchewan, where she began a long career with Sasktel It was there that she met several women that became life long fr iends This was also where she met her first husband, Gerd Michelman They ultimately moved to Eastend Saskatchewan and settled in to raise their three children An unfor tunate accident resulted in Gerd’s death, so Edythe relocated to Nor th Battleford to be closer to family She continued her career with Sasktel and raised her family Later on, Edythe met and marr ied Donald McLean They spent many years enjoying travels, family and fr iends Along the way, she was blessed with three wonderful grandchildren that brought her a great deal of pr ide and joy Her house was the gather ing place for celebrations and holiday dinners She loved having ever yone home She will be remembered as war m kind thoughtful and loving Left to cher ish her memor y are her children: Trent (Louise) Michelman, Mar k (Nicole) Michelman, Lisa Lacoursiere; grandchildren: Lauren (Denis Koutsil) Michelman Joey Michelman Jerr i Michelman; sister in-laws: Helen Davies, Louise Snider ; cousin: Ber nice Leschinski; as well as many nieces nephews cousins and dear fr iends Edythe was predeceased by husbands: Gerd Michelman (1968) and Donald McLean (2022); parents: Roy and Lillian Snider ; sisters: Ber nice Corr igan, Joyce Snider, Louise Har tman; brother : Nor man Snider A ser vice will be held at a later date Condolences for the family can be made at www eter nalmemor iesfuneral ca Funeral arrangements have been entr usted to Eter nal Memor ies Funeral Ser vice & Cremator ium – Tessa Bell Apprentice Funeral Director
NOTICE OF POLL AND ADVANCE POLL
Resort Village of Aquadeo
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that:
(1) A vote will be held for the election of:
Councillor: Resort Village of Aquadeo
(2) Voting will take place on the 27th day of July , 2024, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Community Hall Basement, Aquadeo, Sask AND
(3) Advance Poll will take place on the 20th day of July , 2024, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. at the Community Hall Basement , Aquadeo, Sask
(4) I will declare the result of the voting at the Resort Village of Aquadeo Municipal Office on Monday , the 29th day of July , 2024 at 9:00 a.m.
Dated at the Resort Village of Aquadeo, this 25th day of July , 2024
Alexandria Bernier
Returning Officer
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468
Public Notice of a Subdivision Zoning Bylaw Amendment
Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 55 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, that the RM of Meota No 468 has received an application of proposed subdivision. The application includes the creation of two (2) parcels for the intended use of single-parcel residential within the NW ¼ Section 19-47-16-W3M (Parcel A, Plan 101699321 & Parcel D, Plan BH3045) within Maymont Beach, represented by the proposed Parcel R & Q, as shown on the accompanying plan. The proposed subdivision is split zoned between A1 – Agricultural Zoning District & LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District, therefore, to accommodate the proposed subdivision requires a Zoning Bylaw amendment to rezone parcels D, Q & R to LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District
FORM C [Section 2.3]
NOTICE
(The Tax Enforcement Act)
TAKE NOTICE that the Rural Municipality of North Battleford No. 437 intends to be registered as owner under the above Act of the land described at the foot of this document
The Municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the Tax Lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Number 195718236 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the Municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.
The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the Municipality
Dated this 11th day of July, 2024.
TOWN OF CUT KNIFE
Per:
Nicole Collins, Administrator
Cody Hirsche and Dayna Black Name of Assessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:
SE Sec 18 Twp 45 Rge 14 W3 Extension 0
Title Number: 147212894
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
INTENT: The proposed amendment is to accommodate the rezoning of a residential subdivision within the Municipality.
AFFECTED LAND: The affected lands by this amendment are lands lying within the proposed subdivision shown in the included map by the hatched lines that lay within the jurisdiction of the RM of Meota.
REASON: To amend the Zoning Bylaw District Map to accommodate the proposed subdivision. Rezone the proposed subdivision from the A1 –Agricultural District to LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District
PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the proposed bylaws at the RM office between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily, excluding statutory holidays. Draft copies of the proposed bylaw are available from the RM office (hard copy at cost). The RM office is located at 300 - 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0.
PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 1:15 PM in the RM office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendment and subdivision. Public may attend meetings via teleconference or in person. If you wish to attend the meeting via teleconference, please contact the RM Administrator, Kirk Morrison, at cao@rmmeota468.ca requesting a meeting link invitation. Council will also consider written comments received on or before August 1, 2024, by the undersigned at the RM office by hardcopy or email before the hearing. The RM office is located at 300 - 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. The RM Office contact information: (306) 892-2061 or development@rmmeota468.ca.
Tina Schaefer Development Officer
July 5, 2024
Motor scrapers, dozers, excavators, rock trucks, packers; wide range of machines.
Lots of work all season. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. 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
I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way. Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com FARMLAND WANTED
SalesAssistant/ GraphicDesigner
Do youprefera casual /fun atmosphere? Do youenjoy varietyinyourjob?
Areyou creative?
Do youknowInDesign?
We arelooking fora person that hasInDesignexperienceand is detail oriented.Great communica tion skills andsomesales/ customer serviceexperienceisanasset.
If this soundslikeyou,pleasesendyou resume to: cmhorton@glaciermedia.ca by August 9, 2024.
We thankinadvance alla pplicants fortheir interest, ho weveronlythose candida tesunderconsidera tion will be contacted.
Expected hours: No less than 32 hoursper week with some flexibility. Full benefits
Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc.
I. GENERAL INFORMATION.
A Purpose This request for proposal (RFP) is to select a qualified Insurance Brokerage firm to provide services to Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc. (BRT6HC)
B. Who May Respond Qualified insurance brokerage firms may respond to this RFP
C. Instructions on Proposal Submission.
1. Closing Submission Date. Proposals must be submitted no later than 5:00pm on Tuesday August 13, 2024.
2. Inquiries. Inquiries concerning this RFP should be forwarded to: Patricia Whitecalf - Executive Director 306-937-6700 (phone) 306-445-8355 (fax) Or emailed to: patricia.whitecalf@brt6hc.ca
3. Conditions of Proposal. All costs incurred in the preparation of a proposal responding to this RFP will be the responsibility of the Offeror and will not be reimbursed by Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc.
4 Instructions to Prospective Contractors. Your proposal should be addressed as follows: Patricia Whitecalf Executive Director Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc. PO Box 1658 North Battleford, SK S9A 3W2 Or emailed to: patricia.whitecalf@brt6hc.ca
It is the responsibility of the Offeror to ensure that the proposal is received by the date and time specified above. Late proposals will not be considered.
5. Right to Reject Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc. reserves the right to reject any and all proposals received in response to this RFP.
6. Notification of Award. It is expected that a decision selecting the successful brokerage will be made within four (4) weeks of the closing date for the receipt of proposals.
II. SCOPE OF SERVICES. The Offeror shall be readily available to perform the following insurance services, as requested by the Executive Director and/or Board of Directors:
1. The broker through access to a wide range of insurance markets will arrange the placement, renewal and/or addition of insurance coverages and may be updated/amended or revised if required
2. After consideration of available insurers, provide the names of qualified insurance companies which may be approached for insurance premium quotations for BRT6HC’s insurance program.
3. Prepare insurance specifications and underwriting proposals for insurance policy renewal which will be submitted to recommended insurance companies and submit a copy to BRT6HC for review BRT6HC’s review will only be based on accuracy of information being presented to the insurer
4. On behalf of BRT6HC and upon instruction by BRT6HC, arrange the purchase of selected insurance coverages.
5. Attend Board of Directors and Committee meetings as necessary
6. Undertake an annual review of the insurance coverages, including analysis of coverages, limits, terms, wordings, deductibles, and industry and market trends and provide recommendations on these areas.
7. Obtain insurance coverage interpretations from Insurers as the need may arise from time to time.
8. The broker will obtain the best terms and conditions at the most favourable pricing level for BRT6HC regardless of any other compensation.
9 Prepare insurance certificates and endorsements as requested by BRT6HC.
10. Other insurance services as needed
Insurance Coverage - The following list provides a sample of the insurance coverage that is or may be required by BRT6HC:
• Property/Business
• Commercial General Liability
• Directors & Officers Liability
• Cyber Risk
• Automobile/Fleet Vehicle
III. PROPOSAL CONTENTS The Offeror, in its proposal, shall, as a minimum, include the following;
A. Brokerage Experience. The Offeror should describe its experience, including the names, addresses, contact persons, and telephone numbers of at least three references, preferably
B. Organization Information. The Offeror should describe its organization, size, structure, and office location(s).
C. Services Provided. The Offeror should describe the services that would be provided to Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre Inc.
You must provide cost estimates and should provide comments on the suggested coverage’s, values and deductibles. Please use a separate appendix – identifying as Insurance Policy Estimate Sheet to provide this information. For each type of insurance required, please provide an estimate of the premium that BRT6HC should expect to pay While BRT6HC is looking for your marketing ideas, including cost estimates, please note that this is not an authorization to go to market. Any attempt to restrict market availability at this time will be grounds for elimination from consideration of this Request for Proposal.
Battleford council looks at cost to protect landmark chimney
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
Battleford town council is looking at having upgrades done to the chimney of the old Government House site, south of town.
The chimney is one of the few remnants of this site, which also served as the Battleford Industrial School until 1914.
Mayor Ames Leslie noted the structural condition of the towering chimney was assessed and found to be needing significant repairs.
The structure, he estimates to be at least 70 feet high, is located on property owned by the town. The land is near the property known as the Ridge, owned by Mosquito, Grizzly Bear’s Head, Lean Man First Nation (MGBHLM).
Leslie said he and Coun. Doug Laing noticed some holes on the ground around the chimney stack while at the site a few months ago.
JCK Engineering proposed repairing the masonry at the top of the chimney, and preparing the concrete base supporting the masonry, as part of the work.
The estimated cost is between $45,000 to $55,000. More additional pricing will be done before the 2025 budget deliberations.
Council gave administration permission to obtain further price estimates for the work recommended by the engineering firm, and will discuss the project in the town’s 2025 budget deliberation meetings, which start in the fall.
“As they start to expand up there and create a tourism spot, that chimney is a pretty visible sight line for a long way, so it’s nice to see,” Laing said. “Also, that number [of the estimated repair cost] was shockingly high to me.”
Coun. Judy Pruden asked the town to look into the possibility of obtaining a grant to help with the cost.
“It was a residential and industrial school, and it is becoming part of our historical story,” she said. “It’s on the site of the school. Perhaps there is something under the Truth and Reconciliation plan.”
Leslie said although the high cost to fix it is concerning, the site is federally-recognized for its history, so that needs to be considered also in the need to protect the site.
“Before we could deconstruct anything, we would have to look at that as well,” he said.
Coun. Kevin Russell said he would like to see the chimney stay, but adds it’s also a “dollars and cents” issue.
Coun. Shelley Boutin-Gervais wants the chimney to remain.
“You can’t erase all of history. You kind of have to hope that history never repeats itself... I think we should put the money into fixing it, (to) remember and reflect, and don’t let it happen again. It is history.”
Leslie said the experts will determine what the actual cost will be to do the work over the next year.
The mayor notes he hopes to keep the chimney intact and not remove it.
“The ruins are there from what was the original Government House, which was also the Battleford Residential Industrial School,” he said. “It is part of our history, whether it’s a dark history or not. It’s still part of our history. That smoke stack, on The Ridge you can see it. It’s kind of a symbol of that area, of healing and addressing it. At this time, we’ll continue to make sure it’s safe, that is the responsibility of the town as the town still owns that property where the ruins are on.”
He added that MGBHLM are also in the midst of developing their new interpretive centre and art gallery in that area.
The mayor noted the town will work closely with MGBHLM and make sure the site fits in with what they feel is appropriate for their new facility, “and also to the healing of their members who want to come up there.”
“We’ll look to keep it if the costs are appropriate,” he said. “But if it comes back that the costs are exponential to keep that smokestack, then we will look at council to come up with some ideas, or administration can come up with some ideas on maybe how we can preserve the history and try and have some representation of what that land, that building signifies in our community.”
FORSALEBYTENDER
TheTownofCut Knifeoffersfor sale by tender thefollowing:
OtherProperties Roll Number
2lots: 1lot each: 315 Arthur St 300, 302, 310 &312 Finley Ave 501, 511, 520, 521,531, 540, 541, 550, 551 &561 Park St
Tender must be submittedina sealed envelope marked “Property Tender, includingaddress” send to Town of CutKnife,Box 130, CutKnife,SKS0M 0N0.
Paymentinfullwill be required within 5daysofthe tender being awarded. Purchaserisresponsible forall legalfees Highestorany tender notnecessarily accepted.
For furtherinformation regardingthe properties,you maycallatthe Town Officeat306-398-2363, Monday to Friday,9:30amto4:00pm.
Dated this 17thday of July,2024. DeborahSchaefer,Administrator
SALE BY TENDER
Under the Provision of the Tax Enforcement Act the Rural Municipality of Mayfield No. 406 offers for sale the following property:
BLK/PAR A-PLAN 101633510 EXT 10 10.29 acres within NW 22-41-12 W3 Two miles east of Maymont
The RM of Mayfield makes no representations or warranties to any purchaser regarding the fitness, geophysical or environmental suitability of the property offered for sale for any particular use and is being sold on an “as is” basis only
Closing date will be September 4, 2024, at 4:00 pm.
Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope, clearly marked “Property Tender” and addressed to:
Rural Municipality of Mayfield No. 406 Box 100 Maymont SK S0M 1T0 or sent by email to rm406@sasktel.net
The Municipality reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Bids and waive irregularities and informalities at its discretion.
The successful bidder will have 30 days to provide the payment in full to complete the purchase Payment methods must be cash, certified cheque, money order, bank draft, or lawyer’s trust cheque.
For more information please contact:
Chyanne Hawkins, Administrator of the RM of Mayfield No 406 at (306) 389-2112 Surface Parcel Number: 131668353
New life for old building
Proposed residential units on second floor of former RCMP building to bring new life to North Battleford, addressing long-standing concerns like overgrown grass and neglected parking areas. | Photos by Cleo Ding.
Construction workers busy at the former RCMP building site, engaged in the renovation project. James Johansen, director of Engineering, Planning,Asset Management and Infrastructure at the city of North Battleford said by renovating the former RCMP building, the city is looking forward to improving property values, “We also want to make sure that the parking area looks respectable. The parking lot on the side there has aged over the past eight years.”
Pollinator Gardens – Part I
By Patricia Hanbidge
Lead Horticulturist, Orchid Horticulture
A pollinator garden is a lovely addition to any landscape. Not only are they just a beautiful space with lots of colour, but they are also the type of garden that supports the entire ecosystem. We as humans appreciate them but so do wild animals, butterflies, birds, bees, bats and hummingbirds.
The best pollinator gardens contain a mix of annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs and even bulbs. They are most attractive to all of the
little creatures if they show colour (bloom) from early spring until late fall. It is always best to do a bit of homework and try to incorporate native plants into this garden as they will be easily recognized by the little critters who live there. They will also get to know your other choices in the garden once they recognize the worth of visiting your outdoor spaces.
Many plants that we grow to eat need cross pollination. The best example of this is always the apple. In order for your apple tree to fruit
Bee on dandelion. Photo by Patricia Hanbidge.
Yields expected to rebound as moisture returns to the Prairies
SaskToday.ca
SASKATOON — MarketsFarm analyst Bruce Burnett is reporting consistently excellent yield potential across the Prairies this year after he logged 3,500 kilometres on a crop tour on his way to Ag in Motion.
“General crop conditions are much better than last year, especially in the southwestern Prairies,” says Burnett, Senior Editor, Markets and Weather.
“Crops grown in this region, especially lentils and durum, have significantly higher yield potential than last year.”
Durum yields are estimated to reach 44 bushels per acre, which is up 18
“General crop conditions are much better than last year, especially in the southwestern Prairies,” says Bruce Burnett of MarketsFarm. Photo by Henry C Wong/Pexels
bushels per acre from last year. Using the June sown acreage estimates by Statistics Canada with average
abandonment would result in a Western Canadian durum crop of 7.4 million tonnes. If this forecast is
achieved this would be the second largest durum crop in the past 10 years after the 2016 crop year.
Spring wheat yields are also expected to be larger than last year at 57 bushels per acre. This yield, if achieved, would be a new record for Western Canada. Spring wheat production is estimated at 27.8 million tonnes, which is up 3.4 million tonnes from last year.
Canola yields and production are expected to be higher than last year with yields forecast at 42 bushels per acre. Given normal abandonment on a planted acreage of 21.9 million acres, production is forecast to reach 20.6 million tonnes. This represents an increase of 2.3 million tonnes from last year’s production.
Although barley yields
are expected to be higher this year, overall production is expected to drop due to the large reduction in area. Yields are forecast to reach 74 bushels per acre, which is up 12.6 bushels per acre from last year. Barley production is forecast to reach 8.1 million tonnes in 2024. The crop assessment occurred in the middle of July and assumes favourable growing conditions for the remainder of the season. The heat forecast for the end of the week will certainly harm crop yields. Other crop perils such as an early frost, poor harvest conditions and detrimental weather during the filling stage of the crops may lower these yield projections.
Sun. 10:30 am Ministries forthe wholefamily 306-445-5158 www.tdac.ca
Worship Together
Ag productivity gets $5M boost
Continued from page 9
“Saskatchewan has been setting records for agri-food exports in each of the last four years,” Marit said. “In 2023, our exports were $20.2 billion. We have reached our agri-food exports targets for 2036— years ahead of schedule. This investment by FCC in the accelerated breeding program enables more growth, further innovation and greater sustainability.”
Adding to the list of provincial accomplishments was Baljit Singh, vice-president of research at the University of Saskatchewan.
“We are very proud of the Saskatchewan agri-food system, and the reason we are very proud of that is because over more than 100 years, we have continued to evolve with time, we have continued to incorporate the latest principles in agri-food science into our production system,” Singh said. “That’s what has led to the sustainability of the system that we have when the world is just now getting used to using the word ‘sustainability’ everywhere.”
He also noted that the farming system in Saskatchewan has been focussed on sustainability for a long time.
“Over this course of time with the development of the College of Agriculture at University of Saskatchewan, we have continued to develop departments, centres and institutes to answer the question of the day and to provide the most compelling tools and technologies to the
farmers who are very open to adopting those,” Singh explained. “This is the only jurisdiction that I can think of where a zero-till system has been adopted to a level where it’s nearly unachievable in so many other jurisdictions. It is because of that that the product we make is so grand and received and respected around so many parts of the world.”
Singh called GIFS a “major catalyst and accelerator” in the agri-food system.
“It is bringing the most modern technologies, and the technology platforms and the tools like artificial intelligence and machine learning so that we can speed up the development of crop varieties that can answer the needs of the changing climate,” he said. “And that can also withstand the scrutiny when it comes to sustainability.”
As a result of their dedicated and tireless efforts, GIFS has become a centre gaining worldwide attention. The reason for this notoriety— according to Singh—is the strong support and partnerships.
“Over the next decade, we have major challenges or questions in front of the agri food system, and entities like the Global Institute for Food Security are going to help us answer those,” he said. “That’s why today’s $5 million investment from the FCC will go a long way in making sure that GIFS has the tools and the technologies to support the agri-food system in our province.”
GIFS board chair Alana Koch expanded how the centre is an “initiative whose time has come.”
“Accelerated breeding is not new, however, GIFS has recognized the need and the opportunity to bring these technologies to crops and livestock that are valuable to Canada,” Koch said. “I’m so thrilled to see this happening. As a farmer, I’m very proud of the strides that Saskatchewan and Canadian agriculture have made over the decades in the face of challenges such as the changing climate, trade issues, conflicts and limited resources. We have continued to thrive, feeding the world and holding on to our reputation as an agricultural powerhouse in the world’s fifth largest agriculture and food exporting nation.”
She credits this result to farmers embracing innovations such as zero tillage, embracing herbicide-tolerant canola, and using sustainable crop rotations, for example.
“These innovations have resulted in our crop production being the least carbon-intensive compared to globally competitive regions as evidence in GIFS’ carbon lifecycle analysis that was released earlier this year,” Koch said. “While these innovations have carried us so far, we remain confronted with natural and manmade challenges to feeding the world. It is time to embrace other tools and technologies to take us even further. The need for innovation in agri-food has never been greater. Growth
of agricultural productivity is lagging globally, and Canada is no exception.”
She also spoke realistically about how making these huge changes is not up to one organization to solve on it’s own, rather collaboration being the key.
“As the board chair of GIFS, I’m thrilled to see the institute play this important
role in the ecosystem serving as a bridge between research and the market,” Koch said.
“We need these bridges to help advance innovation to market and into the hands of end users as quickly as possible. But this is such a daunting task and no single entity can do on its own. This is why GIFS is about partnerships. It’s woven into our
mission. It’s how we operate and it’s who we are—founded by industry, government and academia. The very essence of GIFS is to bring the best of all three stakeholders across the entire value chain together to transform inventions to innovations and deliver solutions for sustainable food production. From here in Canada to the world.”
Pollinator Gardens – Part I
Continued from page 17 it needs to be cross pollinated by another type of apple that is blooming at the same time close to each other. We are so lucky that now we can plant dwarf apple trees that are grafted onto a rootstock that causes the apple tree to stay smaller and thus be easier to maintain.
Ensuring you plant a variety of flower types that will be sure to attract all the different types of pollinators. There are many species of bees that will love to come and visit as well as a variety of other insects both in the daylight hours and when it is dark. Moths are nocturnal butterflies that are most attracted to white blooms as they reflect the moonlight the best. When the hummingbirds come to visit, I always feel that it is a true sign of success!
We do not often think of how important pollinators are but they are vital to our food sources. Due to many factors, including loss of habitat, pollinator populations have
experienced severe declines so it is even more important to plant pollinator gardens. Ideally, a space with lots of sunshine is the best for a pollinator garden as many of the little critters are extremely sensitive to cool temperatures. Thus in spring and fall, the sunny areas will warm up more quickly, but some shade during the hot summer temperatures is also a good idea.
Depending on how talented you are in the garden, the plants can be started by seed or purchased from your favourite garden centre as bedding plants. If growing from seed, choose packets that contain a single plant type rather than the entire garden in the packet. Unless you know your plants extremely well, planting a variety of plants will leave you guessing which are weeds and which are actually the plants you wish to grow. Prepare the soil in the area well by removing any perennial weeds and adding lots of organic matter to ensure you
are providing a great home for your pollinator plants.
Seeding directly or starting them indoors depends on what you are planting, your degree of patience and how much time you have for tending to your garden. It is sometimes easiest to start the seeds indoors, and bed them out after the last risk of frost. I like to plant areas of each type of plant so it looks both natural and is aesthetically attractive.
The best gardeners are those that take the time to learn everything about the plants that they are growing. If you learn about the plants, understand your soil and how the plants and soil interact you will definitely see the greatest levels of success! Perhaps review that last couple of garden columns that focused on soils to refresh your level of knowledge about how to build the best soil.
Watch next week for the second part to building a pollinator garden!
