news-optimist Regional
A second chance at life: North Battleford man’s journey after double lung transplant
By Cleo Ding Staff Reporter
It’s been just over a week since Larry Labbe returned home to North Battleford after undergoing a life-changing double lung transplant.
“…Waking up 12 hours later (from the operation), I had no idea what had happened. Was it a dream? I just saw the nurses and I asked, ‘Am I alive?’ And they said, ‘Yes, you made it,’” Labbe recalled.
Labbe’s journey hasn’t been without challenges, he credits the support of his family, friends, and community for helping him stay strong through it all. A GoFundMe page set up by a close friend raised over $10,000 to help cover some of the costs of his medical treatment and recovery, a lifeline during the months he was unable to work.
“The generosity of people in my community has been incredible,” Labbe said.
“From the GoFundMe donations to the messages of encouragement — it’s been overwhelming in the best possible way.”
Labbe is also grateful for the care and support he received from the staff at the hospital, and from the Saskatchewan Transplant Program, which coordinated his transplant.
Larry Labbe and his sister, Debbie, wait outside the airport after receiving the call in August that donor lungs were available. “We were tracking the flight, and when it landed, the adrenaline kicked in,” Larry recalled. “Forty-five minutes later, I was at the hospital, ready for surgery.” Photo courtesy Larry Labbe
“I can do a lot more by myself now, instead of depending on someone else,” said Labbe, adding that tasks that were once difficult have become manageable again.
“For the last week, I’ve been able to go up the stairs, down the stairs, do my laundry...
that’s the nice part, because to expect someone to do it all the time was tough.”
Labbe spent years struggling with pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that slowly robbed him of his ability to breathe. As his illness worsened, simple daily tasks be-
came increasingly difficult.
“I started a couple of years ago through this journey. I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, and it just got worse and worse. It was harder for me to breathe,” Labbe explained, who was then working at the Don Ross Centre.
He was eventually placed on oxygen full-time, relying on it even for the most basic activities. After months of tests and evaluations, Labbe was placed on the transplant list in February.
But that all began to change when Labbe received a phone call on Aug. 24 that would alter the course of his life. “I was just resting a little bit, and the phone call came.
The lady from Edmonton said, ‘Are you ready?’ I said, ‘I’m ready to go,’” Labbe recalled, the excitement still fresh in his voice. That call was the moment Labbe had been waiting for: an organ donor had been found.
The call came after months of waiting, uncertainty, and fear.
Labbe had been placed on the transplant list in February, but the process of being approved and staying healthy enough to undergo surgery was grueling. He had to stay physically strong, often participating in rigorous exercise programs to ensure his body could handle the transplant.
“You need to be in shape because they would deny you if you weren’t strong enough... they want you to stay as strong as you can,” said Labbe.
When the call finally came, Labbe knew his life
Getting a ticket may be frightful...
But paying with a gift for someone else is delightful!
TOYS FOR FOR TICKETS
Getting a ticket may be frightful... But paying with a gift for someone else is delightful!
Pay your parking tickets from Dec. 2 - Dec. 20 with the donation of a new toy equal to the value of your ticket! Bring in the toy with purchase receipt to City Hall - no toy weapons will be accepted.
Santa’s elves will donate these toys to be included in the hampers distributed by the Battlefords District Food & Resource Centre.
Former town councillor disappointed by recount request rejection
By Cleo Ding Staff Reporter
It was the closest of calls — just one vote separated David George, a long-serving member of Battleford’s council, from the winning candidate in this fall’s municipal election. But when George requested a recount, hoping to overturn the results, his bid was swiftly denied, leaving him frustrated and questioning the fairness of the process.
“I lost by one vote,” George said, still incredulous days after the election. “… and I could have been three (votes) ahead (if they can be voted by mail).”
George’s recount request submitted Nov. 18 was fueled by the belief that the absence of mail-in ballots had disadvantaged some of his supporters, particularly those who had signed his nomination papers but were unable to vote because they were out of the country. Although the option was requested, George said, the Town of Battleford does not offer mail-in voting.
His plea, however, was met with a quick and firm reflection from the town’s election officials. In a letter
outlining the decision, Town CAO Todd Francis explained that the margin of George’s loss was smaller than the number of ballots that had been rejected or objected to, meaning the election results met the legal threshold to stand as they were.
“The difference between the number of votes cast for any elected member and the candidate having the next highest number of votes is less than the number of ballots counted but objected to plus all rejected ballots, except those on which no vote was made,” stated in the Town’s letter to George.
George said that, at this point, there is nothing more he can do: “I went and saw a lawyer (with the Town), and we went through the act a little bit, and there’s actually nothing I can do.”
The election results stand as declared, and George’s request for a recount will not be revisited.
“It’s unfortunate, but, you know, it’s a democratic process, and whether it’s one vote or 10 votes, you know, it’s sad to see a long-serving councillor not return,” Francis said. “But it gives an opportunity for something new to come on with new ideas
and a new mindset and add a little something that might be missing from Council.”
After serving on council for over two decades, George couldn’t hide his disappointment.
“You’re kind of talking to a guy that’s a little disappointed,” he told the News-Optimist. “I’ve always been active in the community. I’ve never not been active in the community, and I always did for 20 years plus that I was on council.
“I always did what was right for the people of the town, and I did not ever have an agenda. I just did what was right. Some people have agendas. I never had one, so I’m proud of that.”
With the next municipal election still a few years off, the debate over mail-in ballots and the transparency of the recount process is likely to continue — especially if the margin of victory in future races is as narrow as this one.
“Good luck to the new council. And it was a pleasure working with various mayors, McArthur, Sack… Mahon, Leslie, (and) this goes back to 1988 when I first got elected,” said George.
City’s snow removal crews ahead of schedule as winter weather sets in
The City of North Battleford’s snow clearing map shows Priority 1 streets, including major roads and emergency routes, are being cleared first. Crews are ahead of schedule, with Priority 1 areas largely completed by Sunday night and work now shifting to Priority 2 streets. Photo courtesy the City of North Battleford
Living sky school division names new trustees, sets leadership for 2025
Staff Reporter
The Living Sky School Division (LSKYSD) has announced its new leadership for 2025, including the reappointment of Ronna Pethick as board chair and the addition of four new trustees. The changes come as part of the division’s annual organizational meeting held on Nov. 20.
Pethick, who has been a trustee for over 27 years, will serve a ninth term as chair. She is joined by Shaun Weber, who was acclaimed for a fourth term as vice-chair. Both Pethick and Weber will continue to lead the division as it navigates educational priorities across its broad service area, which includes six rural subdivisions and the City of North Battleford. Joining the board this year are four new trustees: Bailey Kemery (Subdivision 6), Kelly Schneider (Subdivision 1), Sarah Connor (City of North Battleford), and Lacey Gartner (Subdivision 5). Their appointments add fresh perspectives to the division, which oversees 28 schools and serves roughly 5,300 students across northwest and west-central Saskatchewan.
“It’s an honour to continue serving as chair of the LSKYSD Board of Education. I deeply value the trust and support of my colleagues and look forward to advancing our division’s goals,” said Pethick. “Local voices are essential in education, and I’m proud to represent Living Sky.”
Vice-chair Shaun Weber, representing the City of North Battleford and serving his fifth year as a trustee, said, “I am honoured to continue serving as vice-chair. This role allows me to support students, parents, and staff and ensure their voices are heard at the provincial level.”
By Staff Reporter
As temperatures dip and snow continues to blanket the region, the City of North Battleford is urging residents to stay vigilant on the roads. Chief Lindsay Holm, Director of Protective Services, is advising motorists to reduce speeds and take extra care when travelling, as recent weather patterns are creating dangerously slippery conditions.
Winter weather arrived in full force last Thursday, with the city’s road crews beginning sanding high-priority routes. By Sunday, after a heavy snowfall over the
weekend, crews were already working overtime to address the accumulation.
According to the City’s snow clearing plan, priority streets—including key emergency routes—are being cleared first. The City’s snow removal teams are reportedly ahead of schedule, with Priority 1 areas largely cleared by Sunday night and efforts already underway in Priority 2 areas.
Priority 1 streets, which include major roads like Pioneer Avenue and Railway Avenue, are expected to be fully cleared within three days of a snowfall, while residential streets (Priority 3) may take
a little longer, depending on conditions. Snow removal efforts are also scheduled according to a strict no-parking policy in certain residential areas to ensure crews can clear streets efficiently.
In addition to official snow removal, the City is encouraging residents to help each other through its Snow Angels program. The initiative invites community members to volunteer and help clear snow for their neighbours, particularly those who may have difficulty doing so themselves. Residents are encouraged to nominate a “Snow Angel” for public recognition at a future City
Council meeting.
The City is also reminding property owners that clearing sidewalks of snow and ice is a shared responsibility. Under local bylaws, property owners must clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall in the downtown area, and within 48 hours in other parts of the city. Failure to comply could result in fines ranging from $100 to $300.
With more snow expected throughout the week, residents are advised to stay informed about the City’s snow removal schedule and to check the Service Tracker for updates.
A second chance at life: North Battleford man’s
journey after double lung transplant
Continued from page 1 was about to change: “I was so anxious, but after talking with one of the nurses, my nerves eased, and I was like, ‘Okay, let’s do this.’”
The next morning, Labbe was on a flight to Edmonton, where he underwent the transplant surgery. After six and a half hours in the operating room, he woke up with a new pair of lungs and a renewed sense of hope.
“Six and a half hours later, brand new lungs, and a brand new life,” Labbe said.
For Labbe, the first signs of recovery were immediate. “Before, when I was on the oxygen, I had to slow down and stop because I’d have to catch my breath. Now I can talk lots and don’t worry. It’s a good thing,” he said.
“The first six months are the most critical,” he explained. “You have to protect yourself at all costs because your immune system is basically in shock, fighting against your new organs. It’s a delicate balance.”
One of the toughest parts of his recovery was the isolation. Labbe is still required to wear a mask most of the time to protect himself from infection. “It’s like living through COVID all over again,” he said, describing the strict precautions he must take. “You just have to be extra cautious. Even long after the first six months, it’s still crucial to stay healthy.”
But through it all, Labbe never felt alone. He credits much of his strength to his sister Debbie, who has been a great help from the very beginning. When Labbe first received the call about the transplant, Labbe recalled, “Debbie was there. As soon as I asked, it was like, no problem, let’s get this done.”
Debbie’s support went beyond just logistics; it was emotional as well. “My sister was 70 years old, but she just
said, ‘I’ll help, no question.’ It was hard on her, though. After a week in Edmonton, she admitted that she hadn’t slept, she’d cried every night. She didn’t want to burden me with her stress. She wrote it all down in a diary, which she shared with me later. I was really touched… how do you even thank someone for something like that?” Labbe said.
“Just having to rely on my sister to take her away from her life... asking her to do such a big thing,” Labbe said, his voice softening.
Now that he’s back home, Labbe is determined to start sharing his story with others to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.
“Please, think about it,” he continued. “It’ll save lives, save mine.” Labbe hopes that by talking about his own experience, he can inspire others to sign up as organ donors. “Once we’re gone, we’re gone... but someone could use a tissue or organ. One person can save eight people. Just imagine, if we had more and more people doing that and speaking to their families about it.”
Labbe said his life was saved by the generosity of a stranger, and now he wants to make sure that others get the same opportunity.
“I’m just so happy that I’m alive,” he said.
“You know, you don’t realize just how emotional this process is until you’re in it. I was talking with some other patients during physio, and even the older guys were saying, ‘Larry, I’ve never cried so much in my life.’ Tears of joy, because you’ve received a gift of life. It’s hard to explain to someone who hasn’t been through it, but you’re overwhelmed with gratitude and emotions. You just think, ‘Wow, I’ve been given another chance.’ It’s
Labbe,
worked at the
and now recovering from a life-saving
As he regains strength,
is planning to become an ambassador for the transplant program by sharing his story at public speaking events, including presentations at schools and community groups, hoping to raise awareness and inspire others to consider organ donation. Photo courtesy Larry Labbe
life-changing. And then the reality hits—you’re on this incredible journey, and it’s not over.”
As he continues to recover, Labbe is taking things one step at a time. But more than anything, he’s committed to becoming a voice for organ donation, by sharing his story at public speaking events, including presentations at schools and community groups, so that others might experience the same life-changing opportunity.
“On the waiting list alone in Canada, there’s over 2800 people for kidneys, 517 for a liver transplant, 133 for a heart transplant, 210 for lung transplants, and 171 for pancreas. It’s a lot of people waiting for organs, and the numbers need to be talked about more.”
“I made a promise to God, I made a promise to everybody, that I’m going to go spread the word and get as many people interested in organ donation as I can.”
From left to right pictured are Shaun Weber (Vice-Chair), Ronna Pethick (Board Chair) and Brenda Vickers (Director of Education). Photo submitted by Living Sky School Division
Larry
who
Don Ross Centre before
double lung transplant.
Labbe
Letter to the Editor
To the News-Optimist,
I hope I will be allowed to support and add to the letter from George Ferguson in the October 31st issue, in which he writes about some of the more recent betrayals by the government by the selling off of the people’s property. Isn’t it odd that we are never, as a rule – except for the plan to destroy the C.B.C. – informed beforehand on any ‘platforms’.
Starting some years ago, we have discovered, that the provincial government began to sell off so-called “protected” lands, over 26,000 acres, to the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation.
I challenge that this is not a true conservation or environmental group. They in turn rented those lands to pals as cow pastures. When their own president protested, he was verbally abused and insulted by the directors. This resulted in the resignation, in protest, of quite a few members – but that changed nothing. For thirteen and one-half years I led a sincere group of local people to get permanent protection for the rare and historic area around the Mouth of Big Gully Creek, in the rural municipality of Paynton. To that group, it had, for generations, been a place to fish, ramble, ride,
By R.H. Wood North Battleford
It is beyond comprehension that Mr. Trudeau can remain at the helm of the country’s affairs. His actions are that of a drowning man – he should follow Mr. Randy Boissonnault, minister of this and that and step down. His credibility and lack of competence are for all to see, and I speak not only for this country but for the world including NATO members.
The GST holiday is hairbrained and even those who benefit must see that it is causing marketplace chaos. Computers, cash registers
picnic, and camp. I kept a record of the entire effort and spent hours and hours, as did others. Letters of support came from former residents and the North Battleford radio station jumped in to help.
The late Tommy Douglas used his influence to have the oil drilling rights removed and the well-known environmentalist, writer and speaker, Dr. Stan Rowe thought enough of the area to nominate it for the International Biosphere Program, quite an honour. Biology students used the area for studies and a geology student did a land study. We locals, and others, listed hundreds of species of flowers, grasses, shrubs, trees, birds, mammals, butterflies, frogs, fish, and snakes. We were backed by Nature Saskatchewan which in those days had as members some of the province’s best brains, such as the widely respected ornithologist Dr. Stuart Houston and Dr. George Ledingham who was a leader in the creation of the Grasslands National Park. Members of Nature Sask toured the area as a group and as individuals. We also had the support of very dedicated Conservation Officers. For years, under the name of Nature Sask, we have had money to rent the
area from the R.M. of Paynton. Some of us created, from our photographs, a voice and music-over slide collections which Dr. Houston was declared worldclass. In 1986 we thought we had succeeded, and we had a party. The land was under the names of Parks and Renewable Resources, and Nature Saskatchewan – and then at the last minute a well-meaning member of the S.W.F. had them throw in some money otherwise S.W.F. had never heard of the Mouth of Big Gully Creek. The N.S. money came from local people, even money in memory of people. The land was designated as a Nature Preserve. Those conservation officers were to keep an eye on it, and, in time, rent it on certain years for certain months to the adjoining grazing co-op.
Then it all changed. A huge sign appeared to tell the world the land was owned by the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation! When I tried to get answers I was met with deceit, to be blunt. Of course, the S.W.F. ignored me. The government returned a facetious one-line answer: “Thank you for sharing your story with us.” The opposition was useless; they let it all happen anyway –
and likely knew nothing about it. Finally, I tricked the S.W.F. into getting in touch with me. I was told they were “doing a good job.” A good job of what? When the buffalo roamed they did just that, grazed and moved on. Cattle can’t do that plus they are selective grazers and will graze their favourite food almost out of existence. The peavine for example, near the mouth, is practically gone. Cows do not care about ground nesting or shrub nesting birds, nor about butterflies or rare plants. (Actually, neither do a lot of humans.)
Some of us met with an S.W.F. representative to tour the reserve. He and his companion talked hockey and were indifferent to their surroundings. We also saw ugly illegal drainage. The S.W.F. said it was a beaver! Just then a pig flew over. It wasn’t long after that experience that I was catapulted into another of the governments behind our backs fact, during which I discovered that our land titles office had been sold off to private interests!
In their area, for generations, we simply went to the land titles office in the town of Battleford.
and pre-labelling need adjusted for eight weeks. Staff will need to be trained, and extras brought in to help.
Traditional Black Friday has been impacted and the postal strike is making things worse.
On refection GST adds only 5% and does not apply to basic provisions and the reduction of it does not affect most families to any great ex-
tent. It is going to be an even worse headache where HST i.e. a combination of taxation applies. Why are roast chickens and food platters taxed at all? They are purchased for expediency and perhaps by those with limited time, resources and culinary skills. These items incur an additional labour cost which is subject to tax. One of my suggestions is that taxation should be removed from all dental care products as this is at odds with the federal dental care program. Why are they taking the tax off teeth rotting stuff and considering removing fluoride from drinking water?
Oh, I knew that office was closed but I thought it had been moved to Regina. Like everything else. I didn’t know it had been sold. I bet most land owners didn’t. The private company seems to have either no knowledge or too much. I spoke to six or seven people – and each one had a different answer! They let another party interfere with my title – and that party won’t do that again. The last female of the species, when I politely said it was a letter from a Crown Corporation, snarled that they were a private company –and “you can get a lawyer.” And the last male in the gang to whom I spoke informed me I’d changed my address! And now, each year, I have to send them a fee. A fee for what, one might ask, Private for profit. Not mine. Not yours. In every case, ask yourself “Who stands to gain?”
Liberal Liberality
Spring pre-election $250 cheques are designed to distract from the impending carbon tax increase. These will be paid to bonafide workers who earn up to $150,000 per year. This means that retirees on fixed and perhaps marginal incomes all of whom are subject to taxes are subsidizing the working class – should this not be the other way round? This forced philanthropy program is outrageous and ill thought out as is the GST holiday.
Prior to all of the above, Mr. T was off treading the boards in Paris, Laos, Peru and Brazil with performances featuring lectures on climate
I’ve already answered that. Would anyone care to support George Ferguson and Christine Pike? Didn’t think so, not unless their ox has been gored P.S. I should add that the once-worthy government body, Parks and Renewable Resources, has vanished, and the other name on the title, Nature Saskatchewan, was never consulted. Dictatorship?
change and school dinners. Like a lapdog. he is in agreement with Mr. Biden’s lunatic decision to allow Mr. Zelensky to fire American made medium range missiles into Russia. Apparently, the U.K.’s unproven suspect Prime Minister and France have also gone along with this decision enacted about nine weeks before Mr. Biden retires. It makes an appeasement policy of some sort by Mr. Trump absolutely essential. I have great difficulty with our leader’s competence participating in world peace discussions one minute and dancing in an arena trading Taylor Swift bracelet with
Management
chicks the next, while Montreal, where his federal seat is located, was afire with rioting.
There is ample time to rescind these two ill-conceived mal-directed liberality attempts to bolster liberal party fortunes. My advice to Mr. T is that he should consume a large slice of humble pie and admit to an error of judgement, something quite foreign to him. To retain some honour, respect and dignity he should step down and replace these plans with an “Axe the Tax” election date. This would fill Mr. Poilievre with Christmas joy and greatly please many this Yuletide.
Gordon Brewerton: Senior Vice-President, Prairie Newspaper
Advertising Sales - Sales Manager: Candace Mack-Horton
Administration: Kylie Cooke • Elisha Parkinson
Reporter/Editor: Cleo Ding
Reporter: Sherri Solomko • Photographer: Averil Hall
Contributors: Elaine Woloshyn, Eric Callbeck, Kathy Utri, John Bowyer, R. H. Wood
Mailroom - Manager: Melissa Pitkeathley
Scott Foster • Donna
• Anamarija Barna
Maidstone’s winter fun fest set for Dec.14 with fireworks and money tree draw
By Kathy Utri Correspondent
Joyce Eugenia Heidel of North Battleford passed away on Nov. 16 at the age of 90 years. Sincere condolences are extended to Emma and Albert Duhaime and their daughters Pauline and Nichole of Paynton as well as extended family on the passing of Emma’s mother.
Snow is the talk of the town and we certainly got a dumping of it. I love the white stuff and it sure makes for some beautiful scenery but take it easy out there. Blowing snow, slippery roads and high snow banks mean “Slow Down!” and please watch for our children who are very excited to play in the snow.
Maidstone Museum Board met on Nov. 18 with four members present. Following general business and reports, Winter Fun Fest was the main topic. Be sure to join us on Dec. 14 from 2 to 5 p.m. MST. Thank you to the Maidstone Chamber of Commerce for co-sponsorship of this event. The chamber’s Money Tree Draw will be made at 4:30 p.m. at the Fun Fest. Fireworks will be at about 5 p.m. The next board meeting will be Wed., Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at the museum.
Following are the top bowling scores from last week. Youth Junior: Rowan 113, Youth Senior: Jack 194; Ladies: Leanne W. 227, Debbie N. 205; Seniors: Keith M. 192, Pat A. 169; Business League: Kyle S. 259, Jacquie D. 241. High Triples went to Kyle S. 652, Melissa P. 551, Leanne W. 527, Keith M. 510 and Pat A. 465.
Waseca Community Centre’s Cookie Bingo was
RCMP seeking four suspects in Easterville home invasion
postponed due to the stormy weather. Hope to see you on the new date: Sunday, Dec. 1 at 1 p.m. MST.
$1,249,000
$889,000
306-221-5845.
Other Upcoming:
On Tuesday, Dec. 3, Maidstone Skating Club is putting on a To-Go Meal: Creamy Dill Perogies, Smokies, Roasted Veggies, and Dessert. Pick-up is at the arena kitchen from 4:30-6 p.m. MST. Pre-orders are advised and appreciated: Miranda
RCMP were alerted around 11 a.m. March 11 that a 24-year-old man was being taken to the Easterville nursing station for treatment of serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Investigation determined that four men entered the victim’s home earlier that morning, assaulting him and causing extensive damage before leaving.
the public’s assistance in fi Mitchell Howard Ledoux, 27-year-old Steven Shane Klyne, 26-year-old Shawn Eric Umpherville and 20-year-old Nathan Walter Umpherville, all from Easterville, who are believed to have fled to Winnipeg. The four face numerous charges including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon and breaking and entering. tion on any of the suspects’ whereabouts is asked to call Chemawawin
Nov.29 Friday Maidstone Jets vs Glaslyn North Stars 8 p.m. MST.
Dec.4 Wednesday
Macrame Class at Maidstone Library 7 p.m. MST. Contact 306-893-4153 to sign up.
$15.00 fee.
Dec. 6 Friday Maidstone Bowling Alley’s “Christmas Bowl” from 5-9 p.m. MST.
1. Book appointments onlinebyscanningthe QR code with your mobile device,byvisiting www.saskhealthauthority.ca or by calling1-833-727-5826.
Youwill need your health card,a cell phone numberoranemail addresstobook online. If youdonot have ahealthcard, cell phone number or an emailaddress call 1-833-727-5829.
2. Same DayWalk-In Services
RCMP at 204-329-2004 or ously at 1-800-222-8477.
SUNDAY,DECEMBER1ST
2:00pmDaveTupling -vocal soloist
2:30pm Battlefords Blend Harmony Chorus
3:00pmAndrea Stewart -poet
3:10pmErinForeman -instrumentalist (violin,fiddle, guitar,piano)
3:30pmErinSquires -vocal soloist
3:45pmGansaugeFamily -three violinists
4:15pmAnnettesSchool of Dance
Tips can also be submitted securely online at www. manitobacrimestoppers. com or by texting TIPMAN plus a message to CRIMES (274637).
LABORATORYSERVICE CENTRE
PrimaryHealthCentre– FrontierMall, 11427 Railway Avenue,North Battleford, SK 7:30 am –4:00pmMondaytoFriday (closedweekendsand statutoryHolidays)
Healthy People,Healthy Saskatchewan
TheSaskatchewanHealthAuthority worksinthe spirit of truthand reconciliation, acknowledgingSaskatchewanasthe traditional territory of FirstNationsand Métis People
Santa photos 6 to 7 p.m., Turkey Shoot at 7 p.m.
On behalf of Maidstone Communities in Bloom, Celeste Tully (left) accepted a cheque from Maidstone Chamber of Commerce representatives Brenda Marfleet, Eleanor Pegg, Jody Zerr and Justin Works to cover the cost of new Christmas motifs for Main Street. Photo submitted by Celeste Tully
Maidstone High School’s Grade 12 History Class with Several Maidstone Legion Members at Remembrance Ceremony on Nov. 7, 2024. Photo courtesy Natasha Wicks
Many members of Girl Guides of Canada, Maidstone units participated in the Remembrance Day Ceremony last Monday. Sparks-Rangers, Embers and Guides laid wreaths and Ranger, Saidai Mosher read “In Flanders Fields”. Photo submitted by Kathy Utri
The RoyalCanadian LegionBattlefordBranch #9 wouldliketosay THANKYOU to thefollowing whosupported our 2024 Poppy& WreathCampaign
•Gover nment of Canada
•Gover nment of Saskatchewan
•Town of Battleford
•UN/ NATO
•Royal Canadian Mounted Police
•Royal Canadian Legion #9
•StGeorge’s Anglican Church
•Battlefords Shrine Club
•Historic Battleford Lions Club
•St. Vital Catholic Womens League
•Nor th Battleford Elks Lodge No. 369
•Battleford United Church
•Battlefords Ukrainian Canadian CultureCouncil Last Post Fund
•Knights of Columbus
•National Association of Federal Retirees
•Rotar yClub of the Battlefords IONIC Lodge #31
Families
•Green family,inmemor yofSignalman N. Ross Green McAr thur family,inmemory of Ar thur Neil McAr thur
• Degenstein families, in memor yofStoker1st classJoseph Todd Degenstein, Sgt Elizabeth Degenstein, AnthonyDegenstein, Frank Degenstein, Gabe Degenstein &Peter Degenstein
• John Ballendine Jr.family,inmemor yof(WWI) Pte John Ballendine Sr., (WWII) Sgt Thomas Ballendine, PteJohn BallendineJr.,Pte Frank Ballendine, Pte Wilfred Ballendine,Sgt Major Edward Ballendine, CplPaul Ballendine, Sgt Benjamin Ballendine& Pte Walter Ballendine
•Neilson families, in memory of Stoker 2nd Class J.H.(Harold) Neilson Boulton family,inmemor yofCpl Har ry Hogenson
•Nault family,inmemor yofElorie Nault, Marie Louise Nault, Napolean Nault, Dan Nault, Wallace Nault, Dick Nault &Allan Nault
• Francis family,inmemor yofF/O John Philip WisemanFrancis, Lt.Laurie Jean Francis, Sgt Char lesManley Francis &Lance Bombardier George Lloyd Francis
•R.Adams, in memor yofAboriginal Veterans
•Weran family,inmemor yofSteve Weran
•Powell &Driedger families, in memor yofCpl Stewart Chamber sPowell
•Hawryliw family,inmemor yofSjt.NickHawryliw (WWII)
•Keller family,inmemor yofAdam Keller
•Gallop &Stewart families, in memor yofC.S.(Stan) Gallop
•Bull families, in memory of William Er nest Bull & Beatrice Kathleen Bull
• Stewart families, in memor yofHector Bloomfield Stewart &Ear lStewart
•Stolarfamily,inmemor yofPte Nick Stolar
•Ander son family,inmemor yofF/O Harold Ander son, who flewa Mosquito with the Cougar s 410 Night Squadron
•Philip &Melissa McGee, in memor yofall our fallen, and in honour of the retired &active member sof the Canadian Forces
•McAr thur families, in memor yofAlmer McAr thur
•Stir ton families, in memory of LawrenceAdrian Charbonneau
•O’Laneyfamilies, in memory of Max O’Laney
•Deer y& Smar tfamilies, in memory of RayDeery
•Pilot family,inmemor yofPte MichaelPilot
•O’Donnell family,inmemor yofLAC Patrick O’Donnell
•Sample families, in memor yofPte.Alexander Er nest Sample (WWI)&Pte. ChesterSample(WWII)
•Cross families, in memor yofCpl Philip Cross
•Falcon family,inmemor yofPte Harvey Falcon
•Kovar families, in memor yofAlexander,Rober t& David Kovar
•Laycockfamily,inmemor yofWilliamCharles Griffiths (WWI)&WilliamGeorge Griffiths(WWII)
•Ander son families, in memor yofGeorge Ander son (WWII)
•Lucarz family,inmemor yofSgt Edward Lucarz
•Gunder son family,inmemor yofWilliam Oliver Walker (WWI)
•Ander son families, in memor yofWayne Ander son
•Scotton family,inmemor yofCpl John Char les(Jack) Scotton &Phil Scotton&Bob &IsabelDawson
•Lor ne Kulyk, in memor yofJoe Kulyk (WWII)
•Sack family,inmemor yofL/Col Robert H. Halliday, Cpl WilliamJ.Halliday,Ron &MurielSack
•Blyth family,inmemor yofAlex Blyth (WWI)&AlBlyth (WWII)
•Neale &Sheppard families, in memory of F/O Donald Neale, Flt/Sgt Douglas Neale, Cyril Neale, Cpl.Lawrence Sheppard&Cpl Marion Sheppard
Businesses:
•Jaeger’sTranspor t
•V ictor Cimmerer Interior s
•Westwood Turf Farm
•R.M. of Battle River #438
•F ir st StudentBus
•4-J’sWelding
•Twin River Concrete
•Motion Tire
•Ray’s Wrecks
•Double DTruck
•Jay’s Transpor t
•D &MKlassen Contracting
•Dr. AVan der Merwe
•Good Sense ComputerSer vice
•Integrity Plus Financial
•Battleford Massage Therapy
•WolfeGarden
•Sobey’sLiquor Store
•F ire &Flower Cannabis Shop
•Hanabi Japanese Restaurant
•K &SAsphalt
•Home Hardware
•Queen’sBar &Grill
•Andre’sMeat Shoppe
•LiKing Restaurant
•Windsor Hotel
•V ista Towing
•All Out Graphics&Design
•Oil Can Char lies
•R &J’s Garden Restaurant
•Battleford Boutique
•KanaweyimikChild &Family Ser vices
•Analytic CPA
•Lavigne Salvage
•Sask Baseball Hall of Fame &Museum
•Lashberg Towing
•Ber nier Millwor k
• Battleford Fur niture
•Discover yCo-op Food Store
•Battleford Remedy RX
•For tier Mattila Appraisals
•Action Realty
•Sanbur nConstruction
Special “Thanks” to:
•Emcee: President PaulaZadko
•Padre: Joyce Salie
•Pianist:Hilda Eber le
•Piper :Jim Ramsay
•Trumpeter :MikeReid
•Reader :Air Cadet ZakDaredia
•RCMP,Battleford Fire Department,Air Cadets, 2nd Nor th BattlefordScouts
•Ever yone who attended&tookpar tinour RemembranceDay Service
Photo credits to Chris Bajak
Borden care home auxiliary raises funds with festive pre-christmas tea
By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent
The Borden Care Home Auxiliary held a Pre-Christmas Tea the afternoon of Saturday, Nov. 16, in the Care Home, with those attending enjoying fruit bread with cheese, fruit, and a variety of sweets along with their beverages. Winning door prizes were Mandy Tracksell Ella Wensley and for the residents Horace Porchanavy. On the auxiliary board are Bev Assman, Bev Hrynuik, Jan Sparks, Brenda Roenspies, Irene Hamp and Florence Neufeld and they could always use more so if interested give Bev Assman a call. The money raised from this tea will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for the residents.
Forty-nine Borden Friendship Club members and guests travelled on a bus to the Enchanted Forest in Saskatoon on Nov. 21, and on the first trip through, the driver had trouble at a tight curve and a tree broke two of the outside windows of the bus, so rather than going through again we headed back to the bus warehouse and after a bit of a delay we were able to board another bus for the trip back to Borden. Everyone enjoyed chocolates on the bus and when we got back to Borden there was hot chocolate and cookies at the Senior’s Centre for everyone to enjoy before heading home from a rather eventful trip.
The Borden Friendship Club held their first Bingo of the season on Nov. 20 with under 20 in attendance. Winning the cash prizes were Stew Walton(3x), Sylvia Larsen(2x), Heather Bisson, Gerry Wainwright and Lorraine Olinyk(3x). The next bingo will be Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. and the prizes will be hams and turkeys.
The Borden and District Lions Club donated $1,000 to the Borden School for their breakfast program($100 a month for 10 months) and Lion Justin Bisson was at the school to present the cheque to teacher Linda Yuskiw.
Upcoming at Borden is the Borden Farmers’ Market Christmas sale in the Borden Community Centre on Nov. 30 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with Grad 2025 selling lunch. Sunday, Dec. 1 is the Borden Lions Festival of Music from 2 – 4 p.m. in the Community Centre with hot chocolate and cookies after the event. There is a Baby Shower on Dec. 1 for Mom–to–be Brooke Sutherland in the Friendship Club Room at 1 p.m. On Monday, Dec. 2, St. John’s Anglican Church is having a luncheon in the Lower Hall from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., serving soup, cook-
ies and beverages, by donation, and the funds go to the Borden Ministerial Fund for Christmas Hampers for the needy. Radisson Seniors will be holding their next Bingo in the Goodrich Centre on Monday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. with great prizes and a large blackout payout.
The Borden Care Home
Auxiliary held a Pre-Christmas Tea the afternoon of Saturday, Nov. 16, in the Care Home, with those attending enjoying fruit bread with cheese, fruit, and a variety of sweets along with their beverages. Winning door prizes were Mandy Tracksell Ella Wensley and for the residents Horace Porchanavy. On the auxiliary board are Bev Assman, Bev Hrynuik, Jan Sparks, Brenda Roenspies, Irene Hamp and Florence Neufeld and they could always use more so if interested give Bev Assman a call. The money raised from this tea will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for the residents.
The Borden Care Home Auxiliary held a Pre-Christmas Tea the afternoon of Saturday, Nov. 16, in the Care Home, with those attending enjoying fruit bread with cheese, fruit, and a variety of sweets along with their beverages. Winning door prizes were Mandy Tracksell Ella Wensley and for the residents Horace Porchanavy. On the auxiliary board are Bev Assman, Bev Hrynuik, Jan Sparks, Brenda Roenspies, Irene Hamp and Florence Neufeld and they could always use more so if interested give Bev Assman a call. The money raised from this tea will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for the residents.
St. John’s Anglican Church in Borden held a soup, bun and cookies luncheon in the Lower Hall on Monday, Nov. 4 with a good turnout to enjoy three different kinds of soup, buns and assorted cookies or sweets along with beverages. The donations of $404.00 went to the Borden Ministerial Fund that provides gift certificates and other items to help those in need at Borden and Radisson. The next luncheon will be Monday, Dec. 2 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. and the donations again will go to the Ministerial Fund as more funding is needed for that cause.
On Sunday, Nov. 10, the service at St. John’s was one honouring the veterans from the wars. Archie Wainwright read the honour roll of those who died from the Parish in WWI and WWII and Ed Neufeld read In Flanders Field. The hymns sung were those traditionally used at Remembrance Day services
and closed with the singing of O Canada. After the service, a Vestry meeting was held to hear reports and discuss upcoming and Christmas services. Rev. Carr does a service at the Borden Care Home on the last Friday of each month at 2 p.m. and the Lutheran ladies have been helping, but since they are unable to continue attending Rev. Carr is asking for more from the Anglican Church to help out once a month. The church donates funds to worthy causes in December and a short meeting will be held after church on Nov. 24 to finalize the donations for this year and the annual meeting will be Feb. 2, 2025.
The Borden & District Lions Club hosted the annual Remembrance Day service in the Borden Community Centre on Nov. 11 with close to 150 in attendance. There were many posters of hands holding poppies or crosses with verses written on them on the walls of the hall, all done by students from Borden School. During the service, a PowerPoint was shown on the overhead screen for ancestors of Borden students who served in various wars, their photos, years served and where they served. The service was conducted by Lion Rev. Sheldon Carr with Lion Justin Bisson welcoming everyone. Honour Roll from the two world wars that Borden soldiers served in was read by Lion Archie Wainwright, then Last Post, two minutes of silence and the Rouse was played. Bible readings from Micah 4 and Matthew were read by Ruben Rempel and Heather Bisson, and Alison Harkness read In Flanders Field and Reflection by Rev. Carr. Special music was Carry Me Home sung by Kendall Redhead and Jamie Brandrick played guitar. Wreathes were laid by RCMP -Sgt Little, for MP Kelly Block – Gerry Penner, Government of Saskatchewan – Premier Scott Moe, RM of Great Bend –Reeve Gary Nickel, Military – Corporal Lucas Saunders, Air Force – Bob Krueger, the memory of Gordon Piprell – Staff Sargent Saskatoon Police Aaron Piprell, Borden first responders – Natalie
Freve, Fire and Rescue- Dan Gunsch, Silver Cross mothers – Jean Graham, School – Brielle Urbina and one for students by Anton and Tessa Urbina. Remembrance and facts on the Canadians that served and died in the wars over the years were given by Sheldon Maertz and the many different cultural and ethnic Canadians and how we should all be proud of them. Hymns sung were O God Our Help in Ages Past, Make Me a Channel of Your Peace, Let Here Be Peace on Earth and closed with God Save the King. Music was provided by Lion Bob Wardhaugh on keyboard, and a light lunch was served by the Borden Lions Club. Thanks to all who helped set up, put out extra chairs, provided the lunch and helped clean up with even the Premier help-
ing with chairs it was an honour for Borden to have him and his wife at the service.
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 7:00 p.m.
Western Development Museum Hwy 16 & 40, North Battleford, Saskatchewan
The staff of Eternal Memories Funeral Service cordially invite you and your family to a Holiday Memorial Service as we remember the life lived by your loved one
"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."
If you are able to attend, please RSVP by calling or email:
Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium 306-445-7570
emnorth@eternalmemoriesfuneral.co by November 30, 2024
Premier Moe, Reeve Gary Nickel and Lorraine. Rev. Carr, Kendall & Jamie at Nov. 11 service.
Linda Yuskiw of Borden School accepting cheque for $1,000 from Lion Carly Hess and Lion Justin Bisson for the School Breakfast Program. Photos by Lorraine Olinyk
New coordinator at western development, Battleford west place mourns losses
By Dorothy Mills Correspondent
The Western Development in North Battleford has just elected a new Programs and Volunteer Coordinator to take over after Heather O’Neill ended her job and on to a new job elsewhere. Device Sheela Revi to start her new job, but she did not have time to organize the Christmas Light Up the Village. It will be cancelled for this year. Could be back next year. It was also a wonderful drive through the village at Christmas time and will be missed by all. The workshop has been kept busy by all the volunteers on all sorts of projects they have on the go. The staff have been busy preparing for funerals and meetings.
The Battlefords Union
Hospital put on their annual Festival of Trees get-together for four days in the Dillabough Center in Battleford. It was well attended. They had some senior Social Christmas Cabaret along with many other Christmas displays and Christmas items for sale or bids.
The R.M. of Glenside in Biggar held an election for another term. Reeve–O J Singer; Councillors are Allan Shakotko, Corey Solanik, Darren Dove, Hugh Ross, and Kim Custer. Administrator Annaleigh LeBrano. The R.M.s held a Convention in Saskatoon for all the R.M. members. We were all looking for winter and the snow to come. Last week the area got a good dump of snow, close to eight to 10 inches. It did bring out all the snow plows and graders and other snow equipment also the snow shovels. The highway department put in some long hours just to keep all the highways open. Some school buses in the area were cancelled for a day or two due to the heavy snow. Once this system moves out the cold arctic air will come and our temperatures will be so much lower. So be prepared for that. There will be a white Christmas for sure this year.
Many places are all decked out all ready for the Christmas season, and Christmas is not far away. Sympathy goes out to the Parkinson families on the recent passing of Sophia (Leile) Parkinson of Battleford. She was 96 years old. Sophia married James Parkinson in 1947 in the Urland Lutheran Church in Red Pheasant later changed to Bjelde Creek. They lived in a little house on David Parkinson’s farm in Baljennie near the North Saskatchewan River. Later James built a little lumber house in the homelet of Baljennie where he was the elevator agent for one year. Later to move to the George Plews land to farm. They sold out later to move to Bjelde Creek to live and farm. They had a family of six children. Sophia liked to garden and had a large patch of strawberries that was open for pickers to pick the berries. Her husband James also drove the local school bus for a few years. They later retired to live in the Battlefords until her passing, James passed away a few years ago.
Funeral was held at Zion Lutheran Church and interment was in the Willow Moor Cemetery. She will be missed by all her family and friends. Sympathy goes out to the Swiderski
family on the recent passing of Bill Swiderski with a massive heart attack. Bill and his wife Marline have been living in Battleford West Place for a few years. We will all miss him.
The Gold Eagle Casino sponsored Battlefords Business Excellence BBEX Awards in the Alex Dillabough Centre in Battleford on Nov. 7. Congratulations go out to Gardiner Electric to receive an award. Fred and his crew of men have done a lot of houses wired for electricity as they were being built and it has been going on for a good number of years. It all started with his dad Jack Gardiner while he still lived in Baljennie. They ran a little garage fix-it shop and gas pumps. In 1954 when SaskPower first came to Baljennie, Jack had done a lot of wiring houses in the area. Later he sold out and moved to Battleford to run a little store on Main Street where he fixed a lot of radios and T.V.s while in Baljennie Jack Gardiner got the first T.V. that was new and different as many people came to his shop just to watch the T.V. The wiring house was later taken over by his son Fred Gardiner.
Recent visitor with Stanley and Dorothy Mills was Kathy Fitton, the manager of the Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw. She was on her way to Edmonton Alberta to spend a few days with her brothers and their families. She also gave some information about where the Baljennie St Bridget’s Cemetery was where her great grandparents were laid to rest. Stanley took her out to Baljennie to the cemetery plus the old school yard where her great grandparents and also her grandfathers farmed, lived and built their homes two miles apart and raised their families.
Kathy Fitton’s great grandparents were William Wickens Sr. born in England on Jun. 28 – 1886 passed away on Apr. 21 –1941, Cathrine Zizi Wick-
ens born Sept. 18 – 1865 passed away Jun. 25 –1934. They were both born in England. They had one son Frank, also born in England. Frank married Muriel Adelaide Buckland in Winnipeg Manitoba. When they all left England they moved to Winnipeg Manitoba in 1915. They wanted to farm and come to Cando Saskatchewan, but could not make a go at farming there, so they all moved to the Baljennie area in 1919. William Wickens took some CPR land close to Baljennie School while Frank took CPR land two miles away. Catherine Zizi went back to Saskatoon Normal School to get her Credentials to teach school again while her husband farmed. Catherine then taught school in Baljennie for four years 1919 to 1922. Their farm was right across the road. Frank and Adelaide had one daughter Katherine Howard (Kay) born Aug. 31 – 1914 in Battleford. She went to Baljennie School for a few years and was then sent to school in Winnipeg. Was allowed home on the holidays. While in high school Katherine (Kay) met Harry Fitton later to be married and moved to Nipawin Sask in 1937. He was a Doctor in Nipawin. They had a family of five children, two boys and three girls Michael, Tony, Joy, Margorie, and Kathy Fitton. Kathy’s parents Harry Fritton passed away in 1996 and Katherine passed away Jan 2004 both were laid to rest in a Nipawin cemetery. Frank farmed the land with horses and later a Jeep that did not work too well on the hills.
His wife Adelaide passed away in 1940 and no one seems to know where she was buried. Frank was not a farmer but he was a crafty person. He liked architectural work. There is a War Memorial Picture hanging in the Legion Hall in Battleford that he designed and painted with all the names of the local Baljennie people who had taken part in the World
Wars back in the 1940s. The picture once hung in the old Baljennie Community Hall for many years. Someone pitched the picture out in the trash at the time the hall was dismantled. The man who found it outside was one of the soldiers named in the picture so it was saved and cleaned up by a community member then went to the Legion Hall for anyone to see. Frank was also a great storyteller and reader. He had a lot of books plus the old Saturday Evening Post magazine all over his house. After Frank’s wife passed he then married a Baljennie School teacher Matilda Bunnett. She taught school from 1941 to 1942 – one year and later she taught school again from 1947 to 1949 – three more years. They had one daughter Lynne. The family left Baljennie in the 1950s to live in Nipawin, later Lynne married W.D. Clayton in Prince Albert. Due to health problems, Lynne passed away. Frank Wickens passed away in 1975 in Nipawin. Matilda (Tilly) remarried Ralph Ramsdale of Moosomin. They like to travel and see the world on many trips. She passed away in December 1982. When Frank’s first wife passed away she was a real friend of Gentile Rowlands, my Mom. He later gave her some of his first wife’s personal items that were treasures. My Mom gave me some of the items. One was a wooden powder box in the shape of a large apple with a lid on it. Which I still had until Kathy came to visit. Since the powder box belonged to her grandmother, I gave it to Kathy. It was a surprise to her. She went home a happy lady. She lives in Moose Jaw. This has been a great fall season. Weather-wise, there has been frost but no snow yet. That could come any day now. Great fall for the farmers to get all their field work done. The tree leaves have put on a great lot of color but most of the leaves have all fallen now. Ready for winter.
Accordingtothe latest data from theCanadian Centre on SubstanceUse andAddiction, thetotalannualcostofsubstanceuse in Canada isjust over$49billion.National Addictions AwarenessWeek (NAAW) takes pl ac ef ro mN ovem ber 24 to 30, 20 24,prov idin ga no ppo rt uni ty to in crease awarenessabout theimpac tofthisissue.
Thecosts andharms associatedwithalcohol,tobacco,cannabis,opioids an do th er su bs ta nc es liked epres sa nt sa nd ce nt ra ln er vo us syst em stimulants canbec ategorized into four groups.Theyare,inorder of significance:
1. Loss ofproductivit yatwork, including thevalue of lost worktime due to prematuredeath and shor t- or long-term disability
2. Health care costs,includinghospitalstays,emergency room visits andprescriptiondrugs
3. Costs relatedtothe criminaljusticesystem, includingpoliceinterventions,court proceedingsandcorrectional services
4. Miscellaneousdirec tcosts,suchasresearch andprevention, vehicledamageand workers’ compensation
As amemberofsociety,it’sessentialto educate yourself.Learningabout addictionswill help youbreakdown stereoty pesandprov id em uch-needed suppor ttoindividualsbattlingaddictionand theirfamilies.
Sixtyper cent of illicit drug usersinCanada arebetween 15 and24years old, accordingtoStatistics Canada. It’s oneofthe reasonswhy theCanadianCentreon SubstanceAbuse andAddictionorganizesAddictions AwarenessWeek (November 24 to 30, 2024)
This
Substance use disorderaffects people from all walks of life. It is adiagnosedmedical condition.Providing support makes recovery possible.
This year ’s themeisA Community of Caringand aims to highlight solutions to help addressharms relatedtoalcohol and drug use. It also provides an oppor tunity for Canadians to learnmoreaboutprevention, talk abouttreatment andrecover yand bringfor ward solutions
KNOW THESIGNS
While
While ever yteenagerisdifferent, here aresigns your child maybeusingalcohol or drugs:
•Lossofinterestinoncepleasurableactivities
•Changes in mood,suchasdepressionorirritability
•Poor hygiene
•Changes in eating habits or sudden weight loss
•Sleepingmorethanusual
•Bad gradesorproblemsatschool
•Sleepingmorethanusual gradesorproblemsatschool
•Secretive behaviour, lyingorstealing
•Droppingold friends
•Droppingoldfriends
•Inabilitytofocus
Knowingthe signs of teen drug usecan help youbetterunderstand if youshould involvea professional
drugusecan youbetterunderstand youshould professional.
TAKE AC TION
to yoususpect your childis
Here’s what to do if yoususpect your child is dealingwithaddiction:
•Stayc keep lines of communicationopen. to seeyou as cantrust
•Stayc alm. Don’tshowpanicand anger.Instead,offerpatienceand suppor tand keep lines of communication open. Youwantyourchild to seeyou as someonethey cantrust andcometowithanythingthey’re going through.
youaren’talone.Leanonfamily ventionspecialiststohelpyou decisions enablethem.Get your help.Asa doc tororother trustedhealthprofessional.
•Createa suppor tsystem. Remember, youaren’talone.Leanonfamily members, teachers, counsellors andinter ventionspecialiststohelpyou keep alevel headand make appropriate decisions foryourchild’s well-being. Finally,don’t enablethem.Get your child thehelptheyneed.Early intervention can help.Asa start,contact your family doc tororother trustedhealthprofessional
Submitted by Trudy Janssens
Although the results of the village election have been posted around Meota, some may still want to know who was successfully elected.
Many thanks to the outgoing Mayor David Konopelski for his years of great community service. Derek Welford has become the new Mayor by acclamation. New Council members are as follows: Carole Chapman, Teresa Ducharme, Richard Rokosh, and Laurie Shury. Thanks to all those who let their name stand for council positions. Meota residents appreciate all the work that the council does for the village.
In other news, the community of Meota is preparing to have a Nurse Practitioner at the ‘Do Drop In’ once a
week starting in February of 2025. The RM of Meota Health Clinic Committee is looking for a general contractor and sub-contractors to complete renovations to the ‘Do Drop In’ by Jan. 31. Structural renovations to accommodate this change will begin after Dec. 8. The plan is to have a new wheelchair-accessible washroom, new drywall, paint and floors. This is an ambitious plan given that the goal is to have all the work completed by the end of January. The wheelchair-accessible ramp on the exterior of the building was completed just before the snow swept in.
The ice has begun to form on the lake, but it’s too early for ice fishing shacks to go out. I was able to go out Kayaking in November, and watching the geese was
amazing. They’ve all left now and I’m sure they’ve inspired many Canadians to become snowbirds too. Thankfully Meota has groomed cross-country ski trails for those of us who appreciate the great outdoors, even in winter.
The community of Meota and the surrounding area came out en masse to participate in the Remembrance Day service at the Community Complex. Thanks to the many volunteers the service will be very memorable. It was especially heartwarming to see so many guests in uniforms that reminded us all of the brave military men and women that we were there to remember. Meota Community Complex has a replica of the Memorial Hill Cenotaph that is used every year on Remembrance Day. The
names of those from this region, that never returned after the First and Second World Wars, were read out. We owe our freedom to those individuals and the thousands more from Canada who put their lives on the line to defend against the tyranny that had swept across Europe.
This year it was decided to show a video of the liberation of the Netherlands. It consisted of interviews with Canadian servicemen who bravely fought. They shared their personal experiences. Many of those servicemen and women are now 100 years old or older. It is heartwarming to know that someone has taken the time to produce a video of the military veterans who were instrumental in liberating Holland.
ried on within our families and communities. This is certainly the case in Meota. In these uncertain times, the next generation needs to be taught how important Remembrance Day is, so the mistakes of the past won’t be repeated. Hearing stories from actual veterans will become less and less commonplace, and unfortunately Hollywood doesn’t always tell the real story. Actual footage and photographs cannot recreate the carnage of war. Often the words of the fallen say it best. The reading “In Flanders Fields the Poppies Grow” is such a powerful statement about life and death on the battlefields, and the graves remind us that our freedoms were secured by a very high price.
boy asks her “Why should we wear a poppy?” She then shares her first-hand experience with losing her son to the “terrible fight”. Seven Wreaths were laid on behalf of various organizations: The Service wrapped up with the Lord’s Prayer and the audience being invited to the front to place their poppies on the helmet and emblematic table. Background music Amazing Grace played while practically the whole crowd came forward.
The service started with the playing of “The Last Post” followed by two minutes of silence. A reading “An Act of Remembrance – A Commitment to Remember” then was presented.
As a Remembrance Day service, it was delightfully uplifting to have all the young girls from Meota join together and sing “I Wish for Peace”. The performance made me think of how important it is that the act of remembering be car-
It’s unfortunate but very understandable that most of the servicemen, who had first-hand experience, were not very eager to share what horrors they saw. Parents who lost sons and daughters to the fight, often wouldn’t share the grief they bore. We now cling to symbols that remind us to remember.
The Poppy has become that symbol and it’s so important to keep that tradition alive.
The poem “Why Wear a Poppy?” tells of an old lady who is selling poppies. A young
Remembrance Day has become one of the most important Canadian days of the year. It is such a privilege that we live in a community that takes it seriously and does a lot of planning to make it special. It was so nice that the community from Meota stepped up and made a soup and sandwich lunch that everyone appreciated.
A plate at the buffet table brought in donations and $683.05 that have been sent to the Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command in Regina. All the money raised will stay in Saskatchewan and will go toward Veterans Services.
Residents of Meota and the surrounding community know how important it is to keep the memories alive, Lest We Forget.
Galloping
By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent
The weather has drastically stepped wild and furiously into winter mode. Now we all have to put our driving skills to task. So many cancellations/ postponements of events. Our Christmas Craft Sale in Mayfair (of course due to the storm) has been rescheduled for this Sunday, Dec. 1, from 10:00 to 3:00 p.m. Remember Santa is making an effort to come from the North Pole shortly after 1:00 p.m. See everyone there for a good time. Thank you to Mayfair’s Creative Corner for hosting the craft/trade sale.
MADRA presents country western singer-songwriter Brody Siebert at Medstead Hall this Saturday, Nov. 30 with cocktails at 7:30 p.m. and an auction bid for appetizers at 8:00 p.m. Tickets can be obtained by calling 306 441-1625 or 306 883-8430. Tickets $30.00.
Resolute Community Club Restoration (Spiritwood) fundraiser online auction starting this Sunday, Dec. 1-8 with bidding
starting at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday. For more information please contact Sharon 306 873-2757 or JoAnne 306 883- 8366.
Daughter to Marlene and Dave Martens of Rabbit Lake has certainly made a reputable name for herself.
Cheralyne Gibson coach and professional trainer operates a bustling equestrian business near Rosthern, Sask. As a sought-after coach in central/north Saskatchewan, she provides her clients with a wealth of knowledge from a diversified background. With professional coaching accreditations from Equestrian Canada within the English and Western disciplines; certifications including Equine Sports massage practitioner and equine Exercise Physiology. In her training, Cheralyne believes it is important to understand the horse as it is the human handling the horse. The human aspect of the equine connection is nurtured by incorporating her therapeutic counselling training into her coaching style.
A typical week for Cheralyne Gibson entails teach-
ing approximately 45 students at Valley Equestrian Centre (VEC) the facility she started from the ground up and still currently manages. Caring for the herd of 20 plus lesson horses and co-ordinates the additional coaches, staff and their clients at VEC. Cheralyne will put training rides on client horses sent to her for a complete start/fine-tuning/fixing training and behavioural problems. With remaining time keeping her personal horses going at an upper level where she can have fun, compete and continue to advance her professional abilities as a trainer.
Historically on weekends, one can find her coaching or competing at shows or travelling and instructing clinics around the province. Now as wife and mother to a darling daughter, Cheralyne’s intense competition seasons are on hold as she prioritizes spending family time when not working.
For horse lovers who want to know more about Cheralyne Martens Gibson check on the “ Valley Equestrian Centre” Facebook page and website to
see what she’s up to! This young lady is very talented and her strong dedication towards her thriving business is highly respected throughout the province.
Winter months are a bit slower but keeping a few students in the loop is great then she just ends up taking on “more training horses.” Weather can be a challenge in winter for these animals, students and the instructor but one dresses accordingly.
Cheralyne Gibson, founder of valley equestrian centre, trains horses and teaches students while managing the facility and overseeing a herd of 20 lesson horses. Photo courtesy Cheralyne Gibson
Linda Ard
365 Main Street on December 7th, 2-4pm. In lieuofgifts shewould appreciatea smalldonation to theDoDropIn
2691 -98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours 1332-100th St., North Battleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours Trevor and Adria Watts -Owners Funeral Director -Vanessa Macnab Apprentice Funeral Directors Larissa Wack •Tessa Bell
Chris Ternier-Carney
HEIDEL (NACHTEGAELE): Joyce - June 27,1934-November 16,2024 Beloved wife, mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother Predeceased by her husband Robert Heidel, daughter Lynn Liebaert, granddaughter Eva Marie Duhaime Parents Jules and Emma Nachtegaele, brother Alan Nachtegaele and sister Joan Johnson and other in-laws Survived by Emma (Albert) Duhaime, Carey (George) Tugnum, Cindy (Dave) Bartko, David (Sandra) Heidel, Lloyd (Lesley) Heidel, Bernard (Lillian) Heidel 14 grandchildren 9 greatgrandchildren Sister Doreen Dudek, Marguerite Wintonyk, and other extended family In lieu of flowers donations maybe directed to Villa Pascal or catholic Women’s League Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www beaulacfuneralhome com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium Delores Beaulac Funeral Director Spiritwood SK (306) 883-3500
ACREAGE AUCTIONS Greenfeld, SK diSperSal For Judy Schultz
All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutor y declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before January 2, 2025.
PSM LLP, Solicitors for the administrators, PO Box 20 Stn Main, Lloydminster, SK S9V 0X9.
Ifyou are experiencing symptoms of
the
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE ESTATE OF THERESE BOSSAER, LATE OF NORTH BATTLEFORD. SASKATCHEWAN, DECEASED
All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutor y declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 20 day of December, 2024. Battle River Law Friedman Spence Fransoo Barristers & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executors of the Estate of Therese Bossaer
PUBLIC NOTICE
PURSUANT TO THEMUNICIPALITIESACT,PUBLICNOTICEISHEREBYGIVEN THAT THECOUNCILOFTHE TOWN OF RADISSONINTENDS TO RESTRUCTURE ITSSOUTH BOUNDARY BY ADDING THEFOLLOWING LANDS FROM THERURALMUNICIPALITY OF GREAT BEND RM NO. 405TOTHE TOWN OF RADISSON.
Pursuant to Sec.53 of TheMunicipalitiesAct,Public noticeisherebygivethatthe Town ofRadissonintends to annex Parcel C of land from theSouthEast QuarterofSection 20, Township 40, Range 10,West of theThird Meridian forResidentialDevelopmentas per theattached mapoutlined in boldbelow:
APublic Hearingwill be held in Council Chambers at theTownOfficeat329 Main Street, Radisson, Saskatchewan on Wednesday,Januar y8th,2024 at 7:00 P.M. to discuss the addition to themunicipality.
Anyperson(s) whowishtocomment or object to theproposed restructuringmay file a writtenobjection, statingclearly theirreasonfor theiropposition, with theAdministrator of theTownofRadissonatthe address below: Town of Radisson, Box69, Radisson, Saskatchewan SOK3L0 or in person at 329 Main Street,Radisson, Saskatchewan
Awrittennoticeofobjectionmustbereceived by theAdministrator by 3:00 P.M. on Wednesday, Januar y8,2025.
The complete proposal maybeinspected by anyinterested person(s) at 329 Main Street,(Town Office),Radisson, Saskatchewan between 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon and 1:00P.M.to4:00P.M.Tuesday to Friday Datedatthe Town of Radisson, Saskatchewan this 20thday of November, 2024.
Norma Stumborg, Administrator Town of Radisson
TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST
Village of Kr ydor PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 28th day of January, 2025, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is Included in
FARMLAND WANTED
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.sellyourfarmland.com
LAND FOR SALE BY
Ext 2
- Land located approximately 18 miles south-east of Cando, Saskatchewan, near Lizard Lake.
- All land is adjoining and totals approximately 270 acres. o NE-01-39-14-W3 Ext 0 has approximately 158.85 acres. o SE-01-39-14-W3
Conditions
1. Highest or any Offer not necessarily accepted.
2. Bidding will be conducted by ongoing tender. Once all qualifying bids are received, all bidders will be informed of the highest bid on each quarter they have bid on. Bidders will then be provided the opportunity to declare their bid final or to increase their bid at least 2% above the last highest bid. Once all bidders have declared their final bid the bidders shall be informed of the Vendor’s decision.
3. All bids must be in writing and accompanied by certified payment in the amount of $10,000 per quarter bid on payable to Battle River Law in Trust. Payment will be returned without interest if offer is not accepted.
4. Possession Date: March 26, 2025.
5. Balance of purchase price for the successful offer, plus GST (if applicable), to be paid to Battle River Law in Trust on or before the Possession Date or the deposit will be forfeited.
6. All 2024 property taxes payable by Vendor. 2025 property taxes payable by Purchaser.
7. Successful offeror(s) to enter formal purchase agreement following tender.
8. Land to be sold as one package or as individual quarters (bids on any number of quarters will be considered). The Vendor retains the right to select to sell one or any number of quarters to a package offeror. Package bids must specify price offered for each quarter
9. Property sold “as is”.
For more information contact: Michelle Spence, 306-445-6177, michelle@battleriverlaw.ca
Offers must be received no later than 12:00p.m. February 12, 2025. All Tenders must be placed in a sealed envelope marked “Do Not Open: Kanz Land” to: Battle River Law, #201, 1291 – 102nd Street (Box 905), North Battleford, SK, S9A 2Z3, Attention: Michelle Spence.
FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE
(The Tax Enforcement Act)
FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
Land
SW 22-38-19 W3 Ext. 1 and 2 (RM of Reford #379)
Total acres: 142.8 consisting of 126.8 acres cultivated & 16 acres slough & bush
SE 22-38-19 W3 Ext. 1 and 2 (RM of Reford #379)
Total acres: 149.4 consisting of 146.4 acres cultivated & 3 acres slough & bush
Owners
Daniel Joseph Ulrich and Mariette Kristine Ulrich Information
Contact Daniel Ulrich (306)843-0019
Tenders
1. Tender must be for both quarter sections.
2 Must be in sealed envelope marked “Ulrich Land”.
3. Postmarked no later than Monday, December 9, 2024 or hand delivered by 4:00 pm. Friday, December 13, 2024
4. Addressed or delivered to: Hudec Law Office #101-1292 100th Street. NORTH BATTLEFORD, SK S9A OV7
5. A certified cheque payable to Hudec Law Office for 5% of the amount of tender must be included. (Nonrefundable if tender accepted.)
6. Te nders will be opened 10:00 am. Monday, December 16, 2024.
7. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
8 Successful bidder will have until Wednesday, January 15, 2025 (closing date) to provide the balance of funds to Hudec Law Office.
FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE
(The Tax Enforcement Act)
TA KE NOTICE th a t the City of North Battleford intends to be re gister ed as ow ner und er the ab ov e Ac t of th e la nd de s cr ib ed at th e fo ot 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 181203814 and you are required t o TA KE NOTICE th a t unless you conte st the cl aim 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 7 day of August, 2024
THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD
Per:
Margarita Pena, Administrator
Estate of George Bryant c/o Gary Goodyear
Name of Assessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:
Lot 16 Blk/Par 16 Plan No C113 Extension 0
Title Number: 115027017
TAKE NOTICE that the City of North Battleford 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 181203803 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 ser vice 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 7 day of August, 2024.
Per:
THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD
Margarita Pena, Administrator
Estate of George Br yant c/o Gary Goodyear
Name of Assessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:
Lot 15 Blk/Par 16 Plan No C113 Extension 0
Title Number: 115026993
FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE
(The Tax Enforcement Act)
TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife 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 198415794 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
T he am ount re qui re d to re de em th e la nd ma y be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the Municipality
Dated this 18 day of September, 2024.
THE TOWN OF CUT KNIFE
Per.
Deborah Schaefer, Administrator
Sherwin Wayne Machiskinic & Kyle Blackstock Name of Assessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS: Lot 3 Blk/Par 1 Plan No BT5363 Extension 0 Title Number: 142997259
FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE
(The TaxEnforcement Act)
TAKE NOTICE thatthe City of North Battleford intendstoberegistered asowner under the aboveAct of theland describedat thefoot of this document.
The Municipalityclaims title to the land by virtue of aninterest based on the TaxLien registered against the existing title to the land in theLand TitlesRegistry as Interest Number181203791 andyou arerequired to TAKE NOTICE thatunless youcontest the claimof the Municipality or redeem theland pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from theser vice of this notice on youand, subjectto the further provisions of The TaxEnforcement Act, atitle willbeissued to theapplicant and youwillthereafter be foreverestopped anddebarredfromsettingup anyclaim to, or in respect of, the land.
The amountrequired to redeemthe land may be ascertained on application to theClerk, Treasurer or Administrator of theMunicipality Dated this 7day of August, 2024.
Per:
THE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD
MargaritaPena, Administrator
Estate of George Br yant c/o Gar yGoodyear
NameofAssessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTIONOFLANDS:
Lot 14 Blk/Par 16 PlanNoC113Extension0 Title Number: 115026971
FORM C [Section 2.3] NOTICE
(The TaxEnforcement Act)
TAKE NOTICE thatthe City ofNorth Battleford intends to be registered as owner under theabove Act of theland describedat thefoot of this document
TheMunicipalityclaims title to the land by virtueof an interest based on the TaxLien registered against theexisting title to the land in theLand Titles Registr y asInterest Number181203780 andyou arerequired to TAKE NOTICE thatunless youcontest the claimof the Municipality or redeem theland pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on youand, subject to the further provisions of The TaxEnforcement Act, atitle will be issued to theapplicant and youwillthereafter be forever estopped anddebarred from settingup anyclaim to, or in respect of, the land.
The amount required to redeemthe land may be ascertained on application to theClerk, Treasurer or Administrator of theMunicipality
Dated this 7day of August, 2024.
THE CITY OF NORTHBATTLEFORD
Per:
MargaritaPena, Administrator
Estate of George Br yant c/o Gar yGoodyear
NameofAssessed Owner
LEGAL DESCRIPTIONOFLANDS:
Lot 13 Blk/Par 16 PlanNoC113Extension0 Title Number: 115026959
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