BATC launches new 24-hour Youth Help Line
By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca
Need someone to talk to?
Youth in the Battlefords, neighbouring First Nations and surrounding area facing mental health challenges now have another option to turn to. The BATC 24-Hour Youth Help Line at 310-3310. Representatives from Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs (BATC) and the City of North Battleford came together Dec. 17 at BATC’s offices on 100 Street in North Battleford to celebrate the launch of the new service in the community.
Leslie-Ann Smith, BATC Director of Health and Nurs-
ing Services, said the phone service will be an important support line for the area.
“We’ve developed a new youth at-risk 24-hour phone line,” she said. “Kids can reach out any time, day or night, and they will talk to a professional mental health therapist or certified counsellor to see what their needs are. It’s a referral line, so they will be able to refer them to whatever agency is required.”
Smith noted if the youth needs an immediate action plan, the professional will be there to help.
Even if youth just want to talk, they have the option to call the help line.
Continued on page 2
Winter sports enthusiasts rejoice, Table Mountain now open
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
No need to wonder what to do with the family over the Christmas break as Saskatchewan’s popular ski resort, located just 18 km from the Battlefords has opened for the season.
Table Mountain website outlines this dream-to-reality recreation ski venue in Saskatchewan, that has persevered through many trying times and changes - constantly coping with unreliable weather, rising costs, and other challenges that may arise.
The Table Mountain website makes a profound statement, “Welcome to Table Mountain, Saskatchewan, where self-sufficiency isn’t just a clever catchword. It’s the key to their enduring success. “
Following 2023, where the popular ski hill was forced to a shorter season due to lack of snow, this season has provided much more conducive weather to their operations.
Although, Table Mountain did affirm that despite what is perceived as lots of snow, there still was not enough natural snow to cover the
Continued on page 2
The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 17 helped launch the new 24-hour Youth Help Line. Shown are: back left to right: Harmonie King (BATC), Trudy Kern (BATC), Leslie-Ann Smith (BATC), North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin, Coun. Bill Ironstand, Coun. Dennis Mercer, Jordon Weenie (BATC), and, front left to right: Elder Bernadette Fineday, and Elder and BATC Senator Jenny Spyglass. | Photo by Angela Brown
Table Mountain. | Photo courtesy Canadian Ski Hall of Fame & Museum
Battlefords North Stars represent hockey community going beyond the game
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The weekend of Dec.1315 included some special activity in conjunction with home games for the Battlefords North Stars.
Their Facebook page outlined three consecutive nights of activity that began with late night shopping at Access Communications Centre on Dec. 13.
In the Dec. 13 game vs Flin Flon, Stars Marketing Manager, Kennedy Schmidt tells the News Optimist, “Hockey Fights Cancer is a new one for us that has been on our hearts since one of our players lost their dad to a cancer battle in our championship season. We were finally able to do something to honour him and we wanted funds to be raised to go to the Canadian Cancer Society.”
Schmidt also adds that their annual toque and mitten toss was done early in the year with items being donated to the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre, handed out once the cold hit.
Dec. 14, was the annual Teddy Bear Toss with WPD Ambulance and the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre. Fans love to join in the fun by tossing out teddy bears at intermission with all the toys gathered donated to local causes.
Dec. 21, Schmidt notes, “We do have something new of our last game being a game to welcome back some Alumni with our Alumni Kramer Trailer Sales Shootout Showdown. Fourteen players and two goalies are being auctioned off in the intermissions and then the shootout takes place after the game. “
Following the game, there will be a cabaret with free admission for those who want to attend, showing their game ticket. The event is meant to kick off the holidays and celebrate the first half of the Stars SJHL season.
The Stars Marketing Manger also acknowledges the hockey community always teams up with the Stars to support different organizations.
“We were asked to come out to a few Christmas suppers at Bready School, St. Vital School and then BGC. I think it helps to make players feel more included and comfortable in our community to spend extra time with the kids. The kids idolize these players and to see them at their school is very exciting for them and shows the players just how much they mean to this community. I think it’s an added bonus and almost an extra thing to motive them when they hit that ice,” concludes Kennedy.
At the Dec. 13 game, the North Stars honoured an important member of the organization and their family. Hockey Fights Cancer jerseys were made in honour of Jeff Gold and his family Kyndra, Tanner and Taylor. The Golds attended the game to drop the puck. It was also announced that moving forward, since Tanner was a defenceman, the defenceman of the year award will now be named the “Jeff Gold Memorial Defenceman of the Year Award”!
BATC launches new 24-hour Youth Help Line
Continued from page 1
“This is open to everybody,” Smith said. “It doesn’t matter where you are from, you can phone that line, and there will be somebody there to answer you, give you support, and assist you.”
In planning for the new help line, BATC reached out to agencies in North Battleford and the surrounding areas.
The project is funded jointly by BATC and by the federal government through the Jordan’s Principle program.
“We’re really excited [about the new service],” Smith said. “Our youth are at-risk. Our children are atrisk. People are struggling now-a-days. This is the main
focus.”
She noted there are other help phone lines available, but this line will provide one more layer of support to the local community.
BATC has distributed phone stickers and fridge magnets to schools in North Battleford, Battleford and the surrounding area with the phone number posted on it to spread the word about the new help line. BATC will also distribute pamphlets and posters about the new service in the community to increase awareness.
“It’s to have something there for every child to read,” Smith said.
The service is geared to children and youth, but is
also open to anyone who needs it, whether they a teen, or 28 or 38 years old, for example.
“Who ever phones, you’re going to be talking to someone,” Smith said.
The phone line is also open to both First Nations and non First Nations people, so everyone who needs it can call.
It’s also open during all the statutory holidays, including Christmas and the holidays.
“Our therapists and our certified counsellors will be on that phone line 24-hours, seven-days-a-week, no matter what day it is,” Smith said.
“Every day we’re hearing something is happening with our youth,” she added. “They are struggling right now, just
for many reasons. Our families are struggling. There are lots of financial woes in our communities, so we just thought that this would target those kids. Sometimes there is no one to talk to. It’s unfortunate but sometimes there’s no one to talk to at home. They just need to talk. So this will give them a professional ear that will listen to them, and we can come up with some solutions, and give them some solid advice for next steps.”
Smith noted that the health professionals will also make sure the caller is not left without support.
“If they phone with issues, we’ll ensure they have follow up,” she said.
Winter sports enthusiasts rejoice, Table Mountain now open
Continued from page 1
entire hill. To enjoy a full experience of skiing and snowboarding, Table Mountain knows that they have to make snow.
Opening this north Saskatchewan ski hill each year includes a lot more ipreparation than just letting Mother Nature and Old Man Winter bring the snow. Snow-making preparations keep venue workers busy right until opening day, and depending on the weather,
throughout the season.
Table Mountain operates through the winter, six days a week, closing only on Mondays. The holidays may involve different hours so users are best to check with their website or Facebook page for the most upto-date details. At present, hours show closed only Christmas Day. The chalet is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and the chairlift runs from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Night skiing is slated to begin on Jan. 3 with hours listed on the website for those interested in this option.
Ski and snowboard enthusiasts were happy to have this premiere Saskatchewan ski resort ready for their winter sports fun.
Table Mountain offers something for every level of skier and rider that includes in their 45 acres a variety of terrain from well-groomed runs to challenging mogul
run . For more than 50 years, downhill skiing in North West Saskatchewan has been synonymous with the Battlefords. Table Mountain is a non-profit organization, that has grown from a quaint little ski hill to what they are today. Keep up with any news from Table Mountain by visiting their Facebook page, as extreme cold weather may change hours of operation.
Cockrill, Conway react to Conflict of Interest ruling
By John Cairns SaskToday.ca
Reaction was swift from the government and opposition sides to the ruling that Minister of Health Jeremy Cockrill had violated the Members’ Conflict of Interest Act.
Commissioner Maurice Herauf ruled last week that Cockrill violated s.15(5) of the Act through his continued employment into Dec. 2021 with Fortress Windows and Doors, a business that received government contracts from both Battlefords Housing Authority and SaskTel. Herauf recommended a reprimand for Cockrill, given his minimal role and given that the breach was neither intentional nor deliberate.
Cockrill issued this statement regarding the ruling:
“After fully cooperating with the Commissioner over the last several months, I am pleased to see he has come to a decision on both matters. I accept his finding in the Helium matter. I also accept his finding in the Fortress matter and agree that any breach of the Act on my part was neither intentional nor deliberate. The Commissioner found that I breached the Act through my ‘remote’ and ‘de minimis’ (a Latin phrase meaning trifling or negligible) participation in government contracts. The breach of the Act was neither ‘intentional nor deliberate’.
“The Commissioner stated in his opinion: ‘Mr. Cockrill acted appropriately and sought the advice on my office on disclosure, but no specific advice was sought or provided to him respecting his continued employment. I do not consider his breach of the Act to have been intentional or deliberate. I also
acknowledge that his interest in Fortress was remote, albeit captured by the Act.’
“After first being elected, I reached out to the Commissioner for an opinion regarding disclosure requirements under the Act when I became aware of contracts that Fortress Windows had procured. I followed the Commissioner’s recommendations in that opinion. I believed that following the Commissioner’s opinion meant I was fully compliant with the Act. However, the Commissioner noted I failed to ask for an opinion on my employment specifically. The Commissioner also acknowledged in his opinion that he should have been more “prudent” in his advice to me on this issue.
“This matter has been difficult for my family as NDP MLAs and candidates have tried to sully the reputation of both me and my family to score political points ahead of an election. I look forward to continuing to work with the Commissioner and continuing a demonstrated track record of transparency.”
NDP reacts
When asked last Wednesday about Cockrill’s statement to the media, and in particular that last paragraph about the NDP trying to sully his reputation, Opposition Ethics and Democracy Critic Meara Conway was less than impressed.
“So the commissioner is very clear. Had he come into compliance, he wouldn’t have been offside of the Act.” said Conway at a news conference at the Legislature.
“But he didn’t. He continued to be, to take financial benefit from the company up to nine months after he got this opinion. Again, Jeremy Cockrell is an adult working
in politics, (it) was not on the commissioner to babysit him. As soon as he got this opinion, he should have cut ties with the company. This is a serious issue.
“This is a question of public trust in elected officials. That’s why we have conflict of interest and ethics rules. These are very serious matters, not ones to be like, I’ll comply with the commissioner if I feel like it.”
Conway added that “to me, it shows, again, a flippancy, maybe even a sense of entitlement, and definitely a pattern of conflict from a pattern of conduct from a government that time and time again does not appear to take their ethical duties very seriously, in my view.”
At the news conference Conway indicated her party planned to bring a motion to the Legislature in the spring to reprimand Cockrill. She also said the NDP were
calling for an apology from Cockrill as well.
“His statement is disappointing,” Conway said. “He doesn’t seem to be accepting responsibility. And again, had he come into compliance with the Commissioner’s opinion, he would not have been found to have breached the act. Section 17, the exception would have applied. So he needs to take responsibility for his role in being found to be offside the act, apologize, and I think a reprimand is appropriate.”
Conway also commented on the Commissioner’s ruling that Cockrill had not violated the Act over his investments in two helium companies.
She characterized the ruling as meaning that Cockrill “will not face any accountability for two helium companies that he holds direct investments in, due to what frankly can only be
described, in our view, as a legal loophole in the act that we believe needs to be closed.”
Conway pointed to Cockrill’s involvement in discussions at the cabinet table on helium policy.
“But because the names of these two companies were not mentioned on the agenda, he was okay to participate in these conversations,” Conway said.
“He was at the table, he did not recuse himself from discussions on the helium industry and public policy around the helium industry. In our view, this can only be described as a legal loophole, frankly one big enough to drive a combine through.”
Conway indicated the NDP would likely bring a private members’ bill in the spring looking to close that loophole in the Members’ Conflict of Interest Act regarding investments.
As for this being the second time this fall that a Sask Party MLA has violated the Conflict of Interest Act — following the ruling against former Regina Northeast MLA Gary Grewal in October — Conway’s reaction was that she didn’t think this was a government that could be trusted to address the challenges facing the province.
“You know, we’ve heard from Premier (Scott) Moe this past sitting that this is a government that heard the electorate in terms of this kind of historic change we saw in terms of the balance of power in Saskatchewan… I think they’re paying lip service to that change. I think this is the same old Sask Party. I think they’re more concerned with self-preservation and hanging on to power than they are, and themselves, than they are digging in and finding solutions for the people of Saskatchewan.”
David and Joyce Milgaard’s Law gets Royal Assent
By Lisa Joy SaskToday.ca
David and Joyce Milgaard’s Law [Bill C-40] received Royal Assent on Dec. 17, and the Milgaard family says “It is the best Christmas present ever.”
Under David and Joyce Milgaard’s Law, the current ministerial review process will be replaced with a new, independent commission that will be easier, faster, more fair, and more supportive of potentially wrongfully convicted people, communities, and victims of crime.
“My mother and brother fought so long and hard for this day,” Susan Milgaard said in a statement to media. “While they are no longer with us, I am glad I am here to see this legislation passed. It is the best Christmas present ever. The work
of great people like James Lockyer and Innocence Canada is not enough. We need this commission up and running as soon as possible to help the wrongfully convicted people who are
unfairly in prison right now and who need your help.”
For years, David Milgaard had advocated for the independent Criminal Case Review Commission to make it easier and faster
for wrongfully convicted people to have their applications reviewed and to get out of prison.
“All of us at Innocence Canada are delighted by the passage of David and
Joyce Milgaard’s Law which creates a new and independent body of experts to address future claims of wrongful conviction,” said Innocence Canada. “Justice Minister Arif Virani and his predecessor, David Lametti, deserve great credit for this ground-breaking legislation which will make for an enormous improvement to our criminal justice system.”
The new independent commission will not be an alternative to the courts. Applicants will first need to exhaust their rights of appeal before requesting a miscarriage of justice review by the commission.
The commission won’t decide whether a person is guilty or innocent. Instead, if the commission decides a miscarriage of justice may have occurred, it will
order a new trial or new appeal. Only the courts have the power to overturn a conviction.
Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, said the federal government will work quickly to launch the Miscarriage of Justice Review Commission so it can begin reviewing cases as soon as possible.
David Milgaard didn’t live to see the results of his hard work but his family told SaskToday previously that he was with them in spirit.
“I think that’s amazing,” said Robert Milgaard – David Milgaard’s son – in a phone interview after last year’s announcement of the new law. “That is everything he fought for and I’m really glad to see that. He’s smiling at that right now, too.”
NDP’s Meara Conway speaks to reporters at the Legislature on Cockrill conflict of interest ruling. | Photo by John Cairns
Joyce Milgaard, left, fought decades to free and exonerate her son David Milgaard. | David Milgaard photo supplied by David Milgaard
Phone:
newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net
By Sylvain Charlebois
The GST holiday is framed as relief for Canadians grappling with rising food prices. Yet economists specializing in food policy warn it may fail to deliver meaningful assistance and could even exacerbate challenges for consumers and the broader economy.
Insights from the recently released 2025 Canada’s Food Price Report, a collaborative effort by researchers at Dalhousie University, the University of Guelph, the University of Saskatchewan, and the University of British Columbia, reveal why this policy might backfire.
The report anticipates food price increases of three to five per cent in the coming year, with some categories, like meat, potentially rising as much as six per cent and vegetables by five per cent. These escalating costs are occurring against a backdrop of record food insecurity, which affects more than
GST holiday a band-aid fix
22.9 per cent of Canadian households.
The GST holiday also risks encouraging opportunistic pricing by major grocers, many of whom have faced scrutiny for their pricing strategies. Retailers like Loblaws, Metro, and Sobeys may subtly raise prices during the holiday to protect margins – not only on taxable products but also on non-taxable foods. This could create a ripple effect, lifting prices across the board and undermining any expected savings for consumers.
Other factors contributing to rising food costs include recycling fees that manufacturers must pay in Ontario and other provinces. These fees, intended to shift waste management costs from municipalities to producers, are often passed on to consumers. These costs, combined with pressures such as labour shortages in agriculture, logistical bottlenecks, and climate-related production
challenges, make it difficult to achieve meaningful price relief for Canadian families. For households experiencing food insecurity, the GST holiday offers little tangible benefit. Vulnerable families prioritizing basic staples over discretionary spending will see negligible savings. In March 2024 alone, food banks across Canada recorded two million visits, according to Food Banks Canada’s Hunger Count. These alarming figures underscore the inadequacy of temporary tax relief in addressing the deep-seated issues of affordability.
Critics also highlight the inefficiency of temporary tax holidays. Politically convenient but economically ineffective, such measures fail to tackle the systemic issues driving food price inflation. Resources allocated to implementing a GST holiday could be better spent on long-term solutions, such as strengthening local food supply chains, providing tar-
geted subsidies for vulnerable populations, fostering agricultural innovation, and addressing industry-wide cost pressures like recycling fees.
Temporary measures, like government-issued cheques aimed at “buying support with people’s own money,” further complicate the landscape. These one-time payments offer fleeting relief while failing to address root causes. Critics argue such initiatives are little more than political band-aids, giving the illusion of support while ultimately recycling taxpayer funds.
A permanent elimination of the GST on food sold in grocery stores would have been a far better approach. The GST is a regressive tax that disproportionately affects lower-income Canadians, who spend a larger share of their income on basic necessities like food. Removing this tax entirely would provide meaningful, lasting relief without the temporary
distortions or potential for abuse that a limited holiday or one-time payments bring.
This structural reform would better support vulnerable households while simplifying the system and rebuilding trust in food pricing.
The GST holiday, despite its appeal as a quick-fix solution, risks worsening the very problems it aims to solve. While Canadians may initially feel relief at the checkout counter, the broader impact could include rising prices, frustration, and missed opportunities for meaningful reform. The 2025 Canada’s Food Price Report emphasizes the need for policies that build resilience and trust in the food system, advocating for sustainable solutions over temporary fixes.
As former U.S. president Ronald Reagan famously said, “Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.” Temporary fiscal measures like the GST holiday exem-
plify this, offering political convenience at the expense of real solutions. To truly address food affordability, Canada must focus on structural reforms that provide lasting relief for families and ensure transparency and trust in the food system.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, a Canadian professor and researcher specializing in food distribution and policy, is a senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast. He is frequently cited in the media for his insights on food prices, agricultural trends, and the global food supply chain. © Troy Media
The commentaries offered on SaskToday.ca are intended to provide thought-provoking material for our readers. The opinions expressed are those of the authors. Contributors’ articles or letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any SaskToday.ca staff.
More Saskatchewan women eligible for breast cancer screening in 2025
SaskToday.ca
More Saskatchewan
women will be able to access breast cancer screening starting Jan. 1 as a step in cancer early detection. Starting Jan. 1, women between the ages of 47 to 49 will be eligible for a screening mammogram.
A health-care provider’s referral is not needed to book an appointment.
The current breast screening eligibility ages are 50 to 74 but will be gradually lowered as part of a phased approach over the next 18 months to include ages 40 to 49. The next
phase will begin on June 1, when breast screening will be open to women between the ages of 45 to 47.
A breast screening mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast that plays an important role in finding breast cancer early. Most healthy women should have a screening mammogram every two years. To be eligible, women must be the appropriate age, and: have no breast symptoms, such as lumps, discharge, or skin changes; not have breast implants; not in active follow-up for breast cancer; and have been cancer-free for
five years.
Women who are the eligible age can book a mammogram at any of the eight screening locations in Saskatchewan. To book an appointment, or for more information on mammogram wait times, hours of operation and to find the nearest location, call 1-855-584-8228 toll-free.
Another screening option is the Mobile Mammography Unit, which visits locations in rural and remote northern Saskatchewan every year.
Approximately 75 per cent of breast cancers diagnosed through the Sas-
katchewan Cancer Agency’s Screening Program for Breast Cancer are early stage. Screening mammograms are for healthy women, while diagnostic mammograms are for women who have breast symptoms.
Women who experience breast symptoms or concerns at any age, or who would like to know more about their risk for breast cancer, should speak with a health-care provider, or go to a walk-in clinic to discuss next steps.
“With regular screening mammograms, changes in the breast can be detected even when they are too
small for your healthcare provider to feel or see,” said Karen Efthimiou, vice president of Population Health, Quality and Research, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency.
“Early detection can and has saved lives—it can allow for more effective treatment options and better outcomes for Saskatchewan women.”
Expanding the breast eligibility age to 40 will increase the eligible population by approximately 76,000 women. The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the Ministry of Health have been ac-
tively planning for the increased demand for breast screening mammograms including capacity, to ensure a smooth and efficient implementation. The Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan has already committed the funding to support the purchase of an additional digital mammography machine in Regina and Saskatoon and a second mobile mammography unit, which will double the capacity of both screening locations and increase accessibility for the rural and northern populations once the units are installed and operational.
H.
Snow reason not to enjoy the outdoors this winter in the Battlefords
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
North Battleford winter recreation options are plentiful. The city’s website, Parks, Trails, and Sports Fields | City of North Battleford includes a detailed list of options residents have the opportunity to take in this winter while enjoying their winter experience outdoors.
In addition to skating and shinny options at local arenas, outdoor recreation has plenty to offer.
Cross-country skiing is a fun way to get out and stay active during winter. North
Battleford offers a variety of ski trails, along with grooming schedule and trail conditions updated regularly on the city’s website. Ski trails include Centennial Park, located behind the Access Communications Centre and the wide-open space provides adequate light for the night skier. Holy Family School Park has a short trail designed by residents and offers an easy, flat trail for beginners.
Finlayson Island has trails groomed on both sides of the island and are well protected from the wind through wooded areas. As well, skiers can
enjoy the North Shore Trail along the north shore of the river, offering a 5.5 km loop.
For ski trails, it is important to note that dogs are not permitted and skiers are asked to step off the trail for faster skiers coming through.
The Don Ross Toboggan Hill, beside the Don Ross Arena is a popular winter option for sled enthusiasts of all ages. The North Battleford Lions Club provided lights for this hill. The city’s website also regularly updates hill conditions.
If an outdoor rink is more your style, you have six of them to choose from.
Art Notes: Paint and Texture
Submitted by Linda Mushka
Last month, at the Don Ross Centre, Rosemarie Stadnyk shared her knowledge about using texture and mediums with acrylic paint. During the first afternoon, students applied a number of mediums to canvas and matt boards creating three dimensions on a flat surface. The following week, we painted these surfaces with colours and more mediums. The variety of artistic creations was inspiring and stimulating. Rosemarie has abundant expertise and has inspired us
Weather permitting, these outdoor rinks are flooded and scraped daily and are suitable for skating, hockey and broomball. Amenities like benches, picnic tables and public restrooms are also available. Outdoor rinks are located at Centennial Park, Connaught Community School, Fairview Heights, Killdeer Park, Riverview and St. Mary’s School.
Check with the Twin Riv-
ers Curling Club as there may be new recreation leagues or upcoming bonspiel events that might interest you.
If you desire a warmer winter experience, check out the indoor pool for options available at The Battlefords Co-op Aquatic Centre. It might involve a bit of travel but close to the Battlefords are ice-fishing opportunities on Jackfish and Murray Lake once the season opens.
Table Mountain is a short 25-minute drive from the Battlefords and offers downhill skiing, ski lessons, snowboarding and their tubing hill. If snowmobiling is what you love about winter sports then check out the Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club information site for details on trails and opportunities nearby. They also have a Facebook page.
JanuaryatThe Club
On behalf of BGC Battlefordswewishyou alla safe,happy &healthy NewYear!
Let’s reachfor thestars in 2025!
Getyour2025 MembershipsNOW!
Don’tforget, Membershipsare FREE in 2025! If youare able,wewould be grateful fora small donation in placeofthe Membership fee. Pleasecontact ouroffice (306-445-0002) or send e-transferstopayments@bgcb.ca (pleaseinclude your child’s full name in thememosection of anye-transfers). Taxreceiptswillbeprovidedfor donationsover$20.
REMINDER that youare NOTrequiredtosubmita new2025MembershipFormifyourchild(ren)has avalid 2024-2025Satellite Site Membership Form (for Bready,EMBM, andHolyFamily programs) Visitour websiteatwww.bgcbattlefords.ca to fillout our2025 Membership form to ensure we have themostuptodateinformation andmembershipfor your child(ren)! THANKYOU!
School Year Programming:
Non-School Days Program- WE AREOPENONTHE NON-SCHOOL DAYS!That’sright,weoffer programming outofour Main Site Location(1301-104th Street)onthe Non-School Days!This programopera tesfrom 7:30am-5:30pmwitha nutritiousbreakfast,lunch& afternoon snacks provided.The best part is…IT’SFREE! Come join us forindoor/outdoor play,crafts, experiments, gamesand MORE!
Sa te llit eS it eP ro gr am s- Ou rB ef or e& Af te rS ch ool Pr
7: 30 am -8 :3
da t four elementary school loca tions- BattlefordCentral School (BCS)for BCSand St.Vital students,Bready, EMBM,and Holy Family Schools(only offers an after-school option) Register your child(ren)now andjoinusfor outdoor play,arts& crafts,games,experiments, nutritioussnacksand more!
Dr op -i nP ro gr am - Bu tw ai t, th er e’sm or e! Ou r Ma in Si te Dr op -i nP ro gr am is of fe re d FREE OF CHARGE to allour members ages 5-14. Hoursofopera tion are Monday- Friday, from 3:30pmto8:30pmand Saturdaysfrom1:00pm-4:00pm. Allthat’srequiredisa valid 2025 Membership Form!Don’t miss outonthe fun! Come andjoinusfor tons of outdoor time, arts &crafts,experiments,nutritioussnacks& mealsand so much more!
*F or mo re in fo rm at io no no ur pr og ra ms an dh ow to re gi st er,v is it ou rw eb si te at www.bgcbattlefords.ca
January datestoremember:
• Wednesday,January 1st–Happy NewYear!(Officeand allProgramming CLOSED).
• Thursday,Januar y2nd –WEARE OPEN! Non-School Days Program: Blasting off intothe New Year!
• Friday,January 3rd –WEARE OPEN!Non-School Days Program: We AreIncredible!
• Saturday,January 4th – IFCU Saturday Program: Warm Up with aCup of Cocoa!
• Sunday, January 5th – Hockey ProgramBegins! (EquipmentFitting at BGCBattlefords gy mn as iu mf ro m1 :0 0p m– 4: 00p m, an df ir st se ss io no fH oc key Pr og ra mf ro m 6:00pm– 7:00pmatthe DonRossArena).
• Monday, January 6th – FirstDay back at School!(allprogramming resumesregular hours)
• Saturday,January 11th –IFCUSaturdayProgram: Have an IceDay!
• Sunday, January 12th –HockeyProgram
• Saturday,January 18th –IFCUSaturdayProgram:“Hate cannotdrive outhate, only love candothat”.
• Sunday, January 19th –HockeyProgram
• Wednesday, Januar y22nd –Early DismissalDay (programming begins at classdismissal).
• Saturday,January 25th –IFCUSaturdayProgram: LunarNew Year
• Sunday, January 26th –HockeyProgram
• Friday,January 31st –Non-School Days Program: You’ve gota Friend In Me! Winter Clothing Reminder– Reminderthatwedoour best to still go outsideduringthe winter months!Pleaseremembertopackthe proper winter gear foryourchild(ren)!
As areminder, ourschool year hoursofoperation areasfollows:
-Office:MondaytoFriday, 8:30am –3:30pm -SatelliteSiteBeforeSchool Programs:MondaytoFriday, 7:30am– 8:30am(Bready,EMBM &BCS/St. Vital)
-SatelliteSiteAfter School Programs:MondaytoFriday, classdismissal –5:30pm(Bready, EMBM,HolyFamily &BCS/St. Vital)
-Drop-in Program(Main Site): MondaytoFriday, classdismissal– 8:30pmand Saturdays, 1:00pm– 4:00pm
Continue to watchour Facebook page (BGCBattlefords), Instagram@bgcbattlefords andwebsite (www.bgcbattlefords.ca) formoreupdates.
OpportunityChangesEverything
Borden Library hosts reading by author Don Richardson
By Lorraine Olinyk Community Correspondent
BORDEN — The Borden Friendship Club held a ham and turkey bingo Dec. 18 with 38 out to enjoy the games. Winning hams were Kendall Redhead, Stew Walton, Erin Paquin (two) from Warman, and Gerry Wainwright. Turkeys went home with Evelyn Kasahoff, Langham, David Buckingham, Kathy Young and Patricia Schoffer and the $20 blackout went to Jean Brooke. The next cash bingo will be Jan. 15 at 7 pm.
The Borden Lakeland Library held a tea and author reading the afternoon of Thursday, Dec. 19, with librarian Kim Anderson having her father Don Richardson read excerpts from his book. “This is Mostly About Me.” Everyone enjoyed coffee or punch along with a variety of sweets while listening to Don give a short history of his life as a firefighter, pilot, farmer, banker, restaurant owner and more. He read seven short stories about his life in Stoughton and on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, where they encountered Justin Trudeau
and his brother on the beach. Any sales of his book will go to the Borden Library. There was a table for children to do crafts and on display were books, puzzles and history books that are in the Borden Library. Door prizes of a basket of goodies went to Tonia Derksen and Marnie Richardson.
There are maps available at the post office for the twinkle light tour around Borden and there are some places lit up in the RM but they are not on the map.
Dec. 22 at St. John’s Church there will be a Christmas Eve service but at 10:30 a.m. and in the evening there is a country gospel concert in the Borden Community Hall from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. with a cold plate supper available. Admission is by donation.
On Dec. 27, the Borden Friendship Club will hold their December potluck supper at 5:45 p.m. in their club room. It will be Games Night so bring your favourite game to play.
Dec. 29. St. John’s Church service is at 10:30 a.m. with a potluck lunch to follow and then on Dec. 30 Radisson Seniors will be holding a bingo at 7 p.m. in Goodrich Centre.
Don Richardson read excerpts from his book “This is Mostly About Me” at Borden Library Dec. 19. | Photos by Lorraine Olinyk
The Olinyks have lit up their home and yard for the enjoyment of passers-by.
Homes and yards in Borden lit up for the season.
A light display in the village of Borden.
During theholidays, you oftenhear tragic storiesofpeoplelosingtheir lives in road accidentsinvolving alcohol anddruguse However,these tragediescan be prevented. Here areafew simple tipstoensureyou andthose around you stay safe this festive season.
ARE YO UA DR IV ER ?
Even if you feel okaytodrive,it’sa proven fact that consumingalcohol anddrugs no matterhow much —will still impair your judgment. It’s best to have aplanof actionbeforeyou go out.Consider arranging to stay overnight at theparty locationor
assign adesignateddriverfor your group. Otheroptions forgetting homesafely includehiringa rideshareservice or taxi or taking public transit.
ARE YO UA PA SSEN GER OR WI TN ESS ?
If you noticethatsomeone is unfittodrive andstill intends to getbehindthe wheel, speak up! Letthemknow it’snot okayand suggest alternativeoptions.The same appliesifyou’re apassengerina group that must shareavehicle.Ifyou’re askedtoride with adriverwho hasbeenconsuming drugs or alcohol,refuseand do everything you can to encourageotherstodothe same When it comestoalcohol anddrugs, everyone shares theresponsibility to stay safe.Asa driver,avoidgettingbehindthe wheel,and as awitness, act. Everyone can do somethingtoprevent thedevastating consequences of impaired driving— including criminal penalties, severe injury anddeath— by workingtogether
FARMER RancheR
Unity native wins a Brownie with uncommon technology
By Azure McGonigle SaskToday.ca
This year’s winners of the Brownie awards have been announced, with Unity native Ryan Riess once again receiving top honours.
The Brownie Awards recognize the builders, innovators and visionaries who are dedicated to the rehabilitation of brownfield sites that were once contaminated, under-utilized and undeveloped into productive residential and commercial projects that contribute to the growth of healthy communities across Canada.
Along with his business R Squared Environmental Inc., Riess was sought out to join a project in Saskatoon, taking a vacant site that was formally
a gas bar and service station from 1964 to 2011 to the newest Saskatoon location for fast food chain, Wendy’s.
between one to four years to completion,” said Riess.
He also says a great deal of specific training, expertise and experience is needed as projects can fail due to subtle variables, even if most steps have been taken correctly.
After the storage tanks were decommissioned in 2011, high concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found in the soil and groundwater throughout the site. Various traditional remediation methods were explored, however, were not cost effective. The site remained vacant from 2011 to 2022. In 2022, Riess was approached by the client, hoping he would be able to help with a cost-effective option on cleaning the site with anaerobic bioremediation.
Anaerobic bioremediation is a technology that uses living things like bacteria to treat contaminated soil and groundwater without oxygen. Usually, this method is the most cost-effective, however, it can take the longest amount of time.
Riess had worked with this method of remediation with a previous employer and has been recognized numerous times for his work with past anaerobic bioremediation projects.
“Anaerobic bioremediation is not a common offering across Canada. It requires a great deal of proactive planning and projects can take
“The environmental industry is generally reactive and driven by real estate transactions, which require remediation within several weeks or emergency situations that need even faster remediation,” added Riess.
For this project, there were difficulties with preparation, design and cost preparation work at the start.
“There were more than a dozen prior environmental assessment reports by others, with a total of thousands upon thousands of pages of data and reports to review,” said Riess.
He said the site had five different treatment areas due to specific contaminants present and concentration levels. While some areas had gasoline, diesel, oil or VOCs only, others had a mixture of several different contaminants.
“I was able to come up with a guaranteed cost and performance proposal , which was critical for the clients, as they were able to evaluate the economics of purchasing the property prior to closing the sale.”
Riess worked on the site for two years, with offsite disposal being completely avoided. A customized mix of solid and liquid amendments containing micro and macronutrients was mixed into the contaminated soils with an excavator as finegrained soils made injection methods impractical. Overall remediation costs were approximately 90 per cent less when compared to excavating and removal estimates.
“Many of the costs with traditional techniques are eliminated or reduced, such as excavating and hauling away contaminated soils, landfill costs and buying and hauling clean soils. Treating the contaminated soils with anaerobic bioremediation prevented approximately 17,000 km of heavy truck traffic in and around Saskatoon,” said Riess.
Winning the national award means Riess is further established as an industry leader in remediation of the most complex and challenging sites.
“It opens doors and raises awareness of alternative approaches to traditional remediation,” he added.
Riess, who is the son of Ken and Annie, continues to work in remediating long vacant, heavily contaminated properties across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Ryan Riess, who grew up on a farm outside of Unity, and wife Trisha, was one of the Brownie Award winners at the 2024 ceremony. | Photo courtesy of Ryan Riess
A season of hope, generosity and gratitude
Carla
Beck’s Christmas message
I wish you and your family a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone here at the Saskatchewan NDP caucus. Now, no matter how you celebrate this holiday season, I do hope you get to spend time with your loved ones and those close friends. As 2024 comes to an end, like many of you, this is my very favourite time of the year. What makes it special to me are the traditions that we’ve built, and that we look forward to every year. Our family will be heading back home to Lang. We’ve got a big family. We always look forward to things like lacing up the skates and hitting the local rink. Who doesn’t love a good cheesy Christmas movie, some of which were filmed right here in our beautiful province with our talented film crews.
This really is a season of hope, of generosity and a season of gratitude. And it’s a season that reminds us of what we should all strive for all year long. I do want to take a moment to pay special
recognition to those front-line workers who will continue to work right through the holidays. Those who have dedicated themselves to public service.
I know that they’ll be sacrificing time with their own families this holiday season to keep us all safe. And I want to say thank you for all you do. Oh, this is the year that has flown by. Blink of an eye. But it really has been incredible on so many fronts over the last few months. I’ve had the absolute privilege of traveling right across this province, and while I’ve always been very proud to call Saskatchewan home, I find myself filled with an even deeper admiration and respect for the hard working people right across this province.
People in Saskatchewan are kind, we’re known for taking care of each other and for getting things done. And I think that’s never more true than during the holiday season. This really is a season of giving. So with that in mind, I encourage all of
you to do what you can to donate to a local food bank, shovel your neighbours walk, or even consider volunteering for a local charity.
Let’s really come together this holiday season and give back to a community that has given us so much in 2024. Now we know that there are people for whom the holidays can be a struggle, and if we can all help out where we can, a little goes a long way. Remember, our provincial model is from many people’s strength and Saskatchewan has always been stronger together.
As we look forward to the new year in 2025, we know there’s still more work to do, but we also know that we can build something better. And I truly believe this because I’ve seen what’s possible when Saskatchewan people come together and I’m more hopeful than I ever have been before. And that hope feels good. So, no matter where you live, who’s at your table from all of us at the Saskatchewan NDP caucus, from our families to yours, I wish you a very merry Christmas and all the best in 2025.
Experiencing the kindness and strength of Saskatchewan people
Christmas message of Lt.-Gov. Russ Mirasty
REGINA — Hello! Bonjour! Tansi! Happy Holidays!
This season of celebration and goodwill is also a time for reflection. As the festive season arrives, 2024 is on its way out, and it has been an eventful year.
Representing our sovereign is an extraordinary privilege. As Donna and I have travelled throughout our beautiful province, in addition to enjoying the magnificent forests, lakes and rivers of the north, and the grasslands and rolling hills of the south, we have experienced the kindness and strength of the people of Saskatchewan.
I would like to thank every community and organization that has invited us to attend a tea, banquet, concert, pow wow, festival, parade–whatever the event–we have enjoyed it! We are truly grateful for the heartwarming welcome we received everywhere we visited. It has been a wonderful gift to attend such a wide range of events and to meet so many people.
None of those special occasions would have been possible without tremendous community support and committed volunteers. In Saskatchewan we can be proud of the quantity and quality of our volunteers.
Thank you to everyone who donates their time, talents and funds to food banks, shelters, charities, service groups and wherever there
is need. Giving reflects the true spirit of the holidays.
For many of us everything is “merry and bright” as we make memories with our loved ones, but what is a joyous time for some, can be lonely for others. I applaud all of you who look out for your neighbours and offer a helping hand.
One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is acknowledging those who make significant contributions in their communities. It is particularly gratifying to reward the sacrifice and service of our emergency personnel, through Exemplary Service Medals and other awards.
Last year, on May 6th, our new monarch was crowned at Westminster Abbey. This May, on the one-year anniversary of the coronation, the King Charles the Third Coronation Medal program was launched. This national program honours Canadians for their exceptional contributions and accomplishments. It has been a great pleasure to present Coronation Medals to outstanding recipients from right here in our province.
Another highlight this year was hosting our largest public event–the annual Canada Day Celebration. Once again thousands of people joined us on the grounds of Government House for a fun-filled afternoon featuring multicultural entertainment.
I invite you and yours to
Lt.-Gov. Russ Mirasty | Photo courtesy Office of the Lieutenant Governor
our next major occasion–the 2025 Lieutenant Governor’s New Year’s Day Levee on January first from 1 to 4 p.m. Join us to celebrate in Government House, all decked out in Yuletide splendour!
As 2024 comes to a close, I would like to thank the dedicated team at the Lieutenant Governor’s Office. As well, I would not be able to do my work without the constant support of my wife Donna and our family.
In closing, I am pleased to extend seasons greetings on behalf of His Majesty, King Charles the Third, King of Canada, and to share greetings with you in my first language of Woodland Cree.
Nitha ikwa Donna ni-cawasimisinanak, nosisiminanak.
Nipakosithitinan kahkithaw
Kita mitho makosikisikanisik
ekwa kita mitho oci-
mikisikansik.
On behalf of my family and staff, I wish you health, happiness and prosperity throughout the holidays and into the new year.
Carla Beck
In a world that seems ever more
these are the things that we should seek, first in ourselves, and in others.
world
Hope for a bright future for our neighbours, for our coworkers, for our children and grandchildren.
And love
Faith in the people around us, faith that the people we encounter are fundamentally good.
I know we are all so very busy this holiday season, but let us all take a minute and pause to see the good in those that we meet.
Love for, yes, our family and friends, but also for those who are struggling and need a helping hand.
Showing that love doesn’t require grand gestures.
It can be small acts of kindness.
Let us have faith that by helping others we can make a positive difference in our own lives, in their lives, or in our communities.
Hope
Take a meal to a neighbour you know is alone this Christmas season, stop to help push someone’s car that is stuck in the snow, donate toys to a local charity so a child can have a happy Christmas.
Hope for the people around us
Hope for a more peaceful
It was love that sent Jesus to us as a baby, the reason we celebrate Christmas.
As we gather with friends and family this Christmas season, let us focus on these
It
— faith, hope, love. From my wife, Krista, and myself and from our family to yours, we wish you a very merry Christmas and a bright, hopeful new year.
Premier Scott Moe | Photo courtesy Provincial Legislature
Catholic Division seeing no change in number of students with intensive support needs
By Michael Oleksyn Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Prince Albert Daily Herald
The number of students who need Intensive Support and Inclusion and Intervention Programs (IIP) in the Prince Albert Catholic School Division continues to remain stable.
Each year in December the Ministry of Education requires school divisions to submit the number of students that need IIPs. Superintendent Charity Dmytruk presented the data to the board of at their regular meeting on Monday.
Dmytruk also presented early data on EYE (Early Years Evaluation), which shows how ready students are for Grade 1.
The point of both presentations was to show the board how students are doing early in the school year.
“I think on both those fronts, the data that was presented really provides the initial capture of our EYE, the early years,” Education Director Lorel Trumier said. “We know that our teachers have assessed and are working toward improving those domains with our students.”
The IIP data shows 237 current students—roughly seven per cent of the student population—are enrolled in Inclusion and Intervention Plans this school year. That’s down from 245 students (eight per cent of student body) last year, and up from the 177 students (six per cent of student body) in the second year of reporting in 2018-2019.
Trumier said there is some complexity in the data, since total student body has increased. In 2023 there were 3,058 students enrolled in the division. In 2024 there are 3,165, so the percentage is lower but the numbers are the same.
Although the number of IIP students has grown, the school division staff numbers have not. Trumier said that shows why class complexity was an issue during the STF labour disruptions in 2024.
“We do know the complexity of a class size and composition have been very concerning over the years and it is why our teachers were moving towards that in the goals of bargaining,” Trumier said. “The data certainly shows we have many students with intensive needs. We need to meet their needs too. We always
try to again inform the board of the different elements of our organization, and this is a very important one.”
The Ministry of Education collaborates with other ministries to collect prevalence rates of students with specific diagnoses. The information is then used to develop programs, approaches and supports to meet the needs of students currently enrolled in schools and to support their smooth transition as they leave school and enter the community.
This information is also part of the data used to determine each school division’s Supports for Learning funding.
“Those reports are really to continue to keep the board informed that we are monitoring and trying to ensure that it’s part of our consideration for our operations and our school division and to support students,” Trumier said
Dmytruk also presented early data on EYE (Early Years Evaluation), which shows how ready students are for Grade 1.
Students are broken up into three tiers after being evaluated. Tier 1 requires quality classroom instruc-
tion. Tier 2 requires quality classroom instruction plus targeted small group instruction and Tier 3 requires quality classroom instruction and individualized instruction.
The fall 2024 data set showed 53 per cent of students required Tier 1, 26 per cent required Tier 2 and 21 per cent required Tier 3.
Trumier said the data shows that aftereffects from the COVID-19 pandemic and learning disruptions are still being seen.
“I think we’re still certainly feeling some of the impacts of COVID because all the resources to the early years support for families in this community, they were really not available. We’re five years out, but this would have been students that were age one and maybe even two,” Trumier said,
She said teachers are working to get students to a better place.
“We understand that there’s some work to do with our students as they enter, but our teachers are striving to get that to a better place right off the hop and that’s why we bring it to the board so that they understand that is what we are doing,” Trumier said.
St. Michael Community School receives grant to reengage students in arts, sports and culture
By Michael Oleksyn Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
St. Michael Community School is building it arts, sports and culture offerings after receiving a grant for $9,500 from the Community Initiatives Fund (CIF).
The theme of the application was Healthy Development for Children and Youth. The project will offer after school programming for children between the ages of eight and 14 in a combination of areas.
“It’s an opportunity for us to address the needs of our students in the areas of cultural activities, arts, (and) fitness—some of those things that through COVID we, not as a school, but as a community, disengaged with,” St. Michael Principal Mark
Phaneuf said.
St. Michael aims to provide students with engaging, culturally relevant and fun opportunities to grow socially, emotionally and learn new skills. The children at St. Michael may not have the opportunity to engage in what is offered in the community otherwise because of cost barriers relating to fees and other related costs.
Phaneuf said what makes the project at St. Michael interesting is that the activities feed off each other.
“The sewing and the art stuff that we do is really about having regalia made for our powwow and our feast and the different things we do in the school, so part of sewing club makes ribbon skirts and ribbon shirts for students to wear during school activities,” Phaneuf said.
The regalia and ribbon skirts are also used outside the school.
“We’ve had students take them to outside activities, (and) borrow them as well,” Phaneuf said. “It might be something where they’re promoting themselves positively culturally in an event or maybe at a time of loss when they’re morning (and) they might want to wear something traditional to a wake or a funeral.”
Students will have the opportunity to participate in Karate Program, Sewing Club, Powwow Club and introductory sports programs. Introductory sports include volleyball, basketball, curling, golf, wrestling, flag football and track and field.
Phaneuf said the programs
are about skills and cultural growth for the students.
“It really gives us an opportunity to hit many different areas of the spectrum as far as meeting the needs of our kids and really giving them some skills and some opportunities in the process as well,” he said.
The sports aspect is also about reengaging students, according to Phaneuf, much like the cultural aspect.
Phaneuf said one of the other goals is building connections among students ages eight to 14-years-old.
“We intend to hit the kids right across that spectrum with the grant,” Phaneuf said.
Phaneuf added that the school was grateful for the grant and all of the opportunities it presented.
“The fact that we have opportunities like this in our community, helps make our community a much more interconnected place and a better place as well,” he said.
“We are part of reengaging because we know that the more involved these kids are in our community in different activities, the more they can really seek out the opportunities that our community has,” he said. “Prince Albert is a wonderful city and we have so many opportunities.”
St. Michael Community School Photo Grade 1 students Elsie Natomagan and Jordyn Custer show off ribbon skirts and shirts made with the help of a grant from the Community Initiatives Fund. Michael Oleksyn, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
CIF
Battlefords
By Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Community Initiatives Fund provided $2.9 million in grants to 165 projects across Saskatchewan which will go towards programming for youth and children to create healthy growth and development. The December announcement included recipients in the Battlefords.
The CIF is intended to strengthen the capacity of communities and promote healthy lifestyles, the work they do enhances the qual-
ify of life for everyone in Saskatchewan. In the Town of Battleford, the Reading Place, Child and Youth Development by Reading After School Program was the recipient of $30,000.
Meanwhile in the city of North Battleford, the Battlefords and Area Sexual Assault Centre, Gender Based Violence Prevention and Education Programs receiving $30,000. Bready Elementary School’s Nutrition Program was funded $5,000
Recipients’ funded pro-
grams provide essential knowledge and skills that promote positive mental health, self-esteem, and healthy lifestyle choices for children and youth, while also ensuring families have access to necessary resources to nurture supportive environments.
These grants empower innovative local initiatives that promote vibrant community development and enhance the quality of life for residents. With a focus on responsiveness and creativity, this funding goes to projects that address local
needs and foster collaboration, driving positive change across Saskatchewan. This grant program has two intake dates for applications, Oct.1 and April 1 annually.
The CIF is a special-purpose fund created through The Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan Corporation Act and managed by a government-appointed Board of community volunteers. A complete list of the grant recipients and their projects, as well as information about the Community Initiatives Fund can be found at www. cifsask.org.
Progress for northeast highways with construction and maintenance
By Nicole Goldsworthy, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter SASKTODAY.ca
NORTHEAST – The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways invested just over $32.7 million towards various projects and maintenance work in portions of east-central Saskatchewan are currently in progress.
Current work in the northeast is at Burntout Creek on highway 23 south of Arborfield. This $950,000 bridge replacement will be completed in December of 2024.
Other projects in the northeast are a $3.1 million investment to repave more than 16 km of Highway 38 from north of Kelvington to Greenwater Provincial Park. This work began August 2024 and was completed September 2024.
A bridge replacement of $840,000 on Highway 980 over Mink Creek near the Saskatchewan-Manitoba Border. This work began September 2024 and was completed in October 2024.
A $1.3 million seal coating job on 18 km of Highway 35 south of Archerwill. Work began June 2024 and was completed that same month.
A $1.7 million in seal coating work on Highway 9 north of Usherville. Work began July 2024 and was completed that same month.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways wants to improve quality of life and support the province’s export-based economy.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways said more than $21 million invest-
A $950,000 bridge replacement over Burntout Creek on Highway 23 south of Arborfield. Work began October 2024 and will be completed December 2024. Courtesy of Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways
ment to repave a total of more than 40 km, which included: 27.59 km of Highway 55 east of Nipawin,
A culvert east of Nipawin under Highway 55, 9.73 km of Highway 23 north of Carrot River, and 2.68 km of Highway 3 (commonly known as Birch Road).
This project began May 2024 and is planned to be complete by end of December 2024.
A $3.1 million investment to repave more than 16 km of Highway 38 from north of Kelvington to Greenwater Provincial Park. Work began August 2024 and was completed September 2024.
The Ministry of Highways invested
an estimated $3.9 million in 2024 toward daily routine maintenance from spring to fall in the areas near Nipawin, Tisdale, Melfort, Greenwater Lake Provincial Park and east to the Saskatchewan-Manitoba Border. This work included jobs that typically take a day or two to complete such as: road surface patching, crack sealing, spot sealing, dust treatment, gravel blading, seal coating, guardrail repairs, ditch mowing, and culvert maintenance.
Additional details about future highways projects across Saskatchewan will be available late this winter after a tendering process is completed and after the annual provincial budget is released in the spring said the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways.
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
HONCH: In loving memory of our beloved Ann Honch It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of Ann Honch on December 11 2024 at the age of 90 Ann was born on February 2 1934 in Wadena, Sask She grew up in the Kylemore, Sask area where she went to school She moved to the Cando, Sask area where she farmed with her husband Henry whom
and Marilyn as well as 2 brothers, Steve (deceased) and Paul (deceased) She was also predeceased by her parents, Mike and Mary Malakoff, sons – Richard and James and her husband Henry She is survived by sons, David (Diane)
SAWCHYN: Margaret passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024 Margaret was born on December 20, 1932 in Wainwright, Alberta, to Frank and Adeline Wright She was the oldest of four children Left to mourn her loss are her daughter Heather, son Kevin (Mary-Anne) and granddaughters, Hannah and Olivia Also left to mourn are her sister-in law Mary-Kay Wright, brother-in-law Bill Sawchyn Nat Sawchyn (Doreen), and Nick Sawchyn Sisters-in-law Agnes Sawchyn and Jean Sawchyn, and many nieces and nephews Predeceased by her husband of 62 years Andrew her sister Claire Miller (also brother-in-law Ed Miller) brother John Wright (also sisterin-law Faye Wright and nephew Laurel Wright) and brother Dale Wright Also pre-deceased by her brother-in-law Steve Sawchyn, brother-in-law Mike Sawchyn (and niece Patricia Sawchyn), her sisterin-law Kay Tchorzewski (and brother-in-law Frank Tchorzewski), and sister-in-law Swannie Sawchyn Margaret spent her childhood on the family farm near Landis Saskatchewan On Saturday mornings she would take the train to Biggar for piano lessons In the winter, that meant waking up early with temperatures as low as -40 degrees, to hook-up the horses just to get to the train Margaret completed her Grade Ten Royal Conservatory of Music training with First Class Honours She played the piano beautifully Margaret completed her high schooling at the Convent school in Leipzig Saskatchewan She went on to attend Teacher s College in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan In college, Margaret sang in the choir and she was always humming the melodies of hymns as she went about her daily activities Margaret also enjoyed a summer art class at Emma Lake, Saskatchewan, where she practiced her painting and sketching After graduating from college she then taught grades one two and three in the small-town schools that dotted the prairies, in Evesham, Cando, Glaslyn and Canwood A highlight of her time as a teacher was teaching the Phillips triplets, a story and photo that was shared in the local newspaper While Margaret was teaching at the school in Glaslyn, she was rooming and boarding at a little house in town It was at that time she met her husband-to-be Andrew After Margaret transferred from Glaslyn to Canwood school Andrew would drive up every two weeks in his blue truck with the white diamond painted on the side, to visit Margaret In the meantime, between visits, they would exchange letters Margaret and Andrew married on August 4,1961 and they moved to their farm near Glaslyn to begin their life together Margaret was also involved with the Glaslyn Community Library committee and she helped establish the public library in the basement of the Glaslyn Community Hall She served on the library board and contributed many volunteer hours She always enjoyed reading, and said that if you were ever bored, “just pick up a book!” Margaret instilled in her family a deep love of learning, and she and Andrew prepared their children to go out into the world She led by example and always tried to encourage her children and grandchildren to work hard to persevere and to follow their dreams In 2003, Margaret and Andrew decided to retire to St Catharines, Ontario to be near their grandchildren This was a big move from rural Saskatchewan, but the winters were milder and they loved the local orchards and fresh fruits She enjoyed a full and busy retirement as a full-time grandma She shared many birthday celebrations and family events countless Christmas concerts piano and dance recitals and enjoyed being part of her
Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy completeness truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements For greater information on advertising conditions please consult the Association s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www swna com
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LAND FOR SALE BY ONGOING TENDER
R.M. OF GLENSIDE NO. 377 Land Descriptions: NE-01-39-14-W3 Ext 0 SE-01-39-14-W3 Ext 2 - Land located approximately 18 miles south-east of Cando, Saskatchewan, near Lizard Lake.
- All land is adjoining and totals approximately 204.17 acres. o NE-01-39-14-W3 Ext 0 has approximately 158.85 acres. o SE-01-39-14-W3 Ext 2 has approximately 45.32 acres.
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 retur ned 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.
By Trudy Janssens Correspondent
At the Do Drop In recent membership meeting, Linda Ard presented a contribution of $560 to the organization. These funds were raised instead of birthday presents. When you turn 90 you find creative ways to give back and Linda has certainly found a way.
Do Drop In renovations have begun and that’s directly affecting the activities that normally happen in the building. Canasta is being played at Towers 2 in North Battleford at 1:30 p.m. on Fridays. Norwegian Whist will resume in January and shuffleboard may not resume until the renovations are complete. There won’t be any Chat and Chew Wednesday morning coffee until January. It will resume Jan. 8, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at 185-1st St. W. There are still several decisions that need to be made to accommodate the nurse practitioner and it’s exciting to see the community of Meota pull together to make it happen.
The Lions Club turkey and ham bingo night was well attended. Thank you to all who came out to make this another successful fundraiser for the community.
Winners of the Meota Lakeshore Lions Christmas lighting contest are Mervin and Leah Uteri in first place, Derek and Alex Welford in second place and John Tinio in third place. A huge thank you to all who light up.
Meota Grand Slam of Curling Week 2 Recap
(By Derek Welford)
Wanda Weber bounced back from last week’s loss with a strong team performance where every shot mattered in a closely contested contest with Lonnie Alm. Weber didn’t have to throw the last stone as she had the win locked up in a 7-6 thriller.
Colin Mack’s rink played their season opener against Terry Tait, who took temporary control of the Cadrin rink in a substitute role. It was all Mack in the back half of the game scoring in ends 4 through 8 to win 8-5 to start the season on the right foot.
Don Johnson spotted Derek Welford 4 points through the first two ends then rebounded with a double and never let up from there. Johnson alongside Blaire Chapman, Martina Johnson and Carter Johnson put up 11 consecutive points in the next 5 ends to win 11-4.
Zane Lacousiere found
himself in control heading into the final end with a commanding 7-2 lead. Almost slipped from his grasp though as Colin Sharp put up 4 points with the hammer to make it a respectable 7-6 loss.
Randy Sharp’s rink was dealt a similar fate as his brother’s team as they were narrowly defeated by Caleb Gansauge Thursday night. Down by 2 points in the eighth end with the hammer, Gansauge made back-toback precise draws to score 3 points and clinch an 8-7 win that saw multiple lead changes.
There was a lot of buzz on sheet one in the Mohr versus Schmidt match, as Thursday night saw the season debuts of both Darrell McCarthy and Pat Mohr’s recently purchased Milwaukee heated vest. McCarthy’s contagious optimism and can-do attitude were a welcomed addition to the Schmidt rink this week as they won handily 11-4.
After a successful offseason of negotiations, Pat Becotte signed prized free agent Robert St Amant to his curling team. Already paying dividends as Becotte handed Kirsten Bru their first loss in a 6-1 game and crowd sizes have drastically increased.
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The Dutch Christmas tradition of baking spiced cookies from a special mold is still being practised in Meota. Leo Janssens bakes speculaas for his grandchildren every year.
| Photo by Trudy Janssens
Jim and Darla Eppin join Dirk and Caroline VanEe for some winter fun. I’m told that when you’re on a snowmobile you don’t notice the cold, but you better dress for it. |
Photo by Trudy Janssens
Female hockey gaining in popularity in northeast Saskatchewan
By Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SASKTODAY.ca
NORTHEAST – Female hockey has seen an increase in numbers since 2020. There are more and more female hockey teams being established in rural Saskatchewan.
Kelly McClintock, General Manager for Hockey Saskatchewan spoke to SASKTODAY. ca and said the sooner girls can start playing together, the better the outcomes are for them. More and more girls are playing hockey and McClintock would like to see more organized regions
for the province of Saskatchewan. The establishment of the Saskatchewan Female Hockey League (SFHL) has helped girls get into the game.
McClintock said in the span of five years, the total number of teams went from 81 female teams to 123 in the under 13 to under 18 age categories in Saskatchewan.
More female tournament teams have started to form in the Northeast and a tournament on Dec. 14 in Leroy brought the under 11 Humboldt Broncos, Northeast Aces, Lanigan Pirattes and the Northeast Bruins teams to playoff.
The Broncos beat the Northeast Aces in the A-final and
went 3 and 0 in round robin. The Northeast Bruins won the B-side in close game against the Lanigan Pirattes 4–3. The Humboldt Broncos have players from Humboldt, Quill Lake and Leroy. The Northeast Aces players are from Tisdale, St. Brieux, Arborfield, Choiceland, Melfort, Kelvington, Carrot River and Nipawin. The Northeast Bruins have players from Hudson Bay, Porcupine Plain, Bjorkdale and Kelvington. The Lanigan flyers have players from Lanigan, Jansen, Wynyard, Drake, Nokomis, and Watrous.
Currently the SSFHL has age categories for Under 11A, under 13A and 13AA, under 15A and 15AA and under 18A and 18AA.
Masses: Saturdays: 7:30 pm Sundays: 9:00& 11:00am
Email: st.josephcalasanctius_nb@Padiocese.ca Website: stjosephcalasanctius.com
WorshipLeader: HeatherMacKinnon
A-side winners: Under 11 Humboldt Female Broncos . Courtesy of Under 11 Female Humboldt Broncos
Grace Community Church hosts ladies’ night
By Kathy Utri Correspondent
Sincere condolences are extended to the families and friends of two beloved community members who passed away in Maidstone on Dec.15: Shirley Jansen, 81, and Cecil Skolrood, 93. Through community involvement and personal experiences, each left us with many cherished memories.
Shirley Jansen is survived by two daughters Tara (Bob) Banks and Inga (Brian) Grimley, five grandchildren Sheena (Trent), Leah, and Brenna (Jordan), Jaron (Samara ) and Kendall (Walt) and five great-grandchildren: Jansen, Bennett, Vaughn, Aaliyah and Landyn. A celebration of life for Shirley will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. MST at Maidstone United Church.
Cecil Skolrood leaves behind his wife, Elsie; three children David (Diane), Roger (Beth) and Leanne (Tim), five grandchildren Brayden, Jordi (Tamica), Jessie, Addison and Kayden and two great-grandchildren Huntley and Sutton. A service for Cecil will be held at a later date.
Grace Community Church Ladies’ Night was a fun fellowship for all. Maidstone High School carollers
stopped by to share inspiring Christmas pieces and the Happy Birthday song for Kristin. They did an amazing job. Ladies then made a wooden spoon snowman (for some reason mine looked like a pirate), Janice encouraged us with a moving devotional and we finished up with an abundant selection of snacks.
Ratushniak Elementary School’s Christmas concert was a joy for all to see and hear. The program began
with an uplifting presentation from the MHS carollers. Students from pre-K to Grade 3 then recited a variety of seasonal selections interspersed with commentary and jokes from several MCs. Everyone did an awesome job. Thank you to students, staff and parents for another excellent concert.
Maidstone High School’s Entrepreneur Class held two sales last week, one in the school pit and one at Lloyd Farmers Market. The four
groups reported good sales along with extra orders. I snagged something from each group: sweet potato pet treats; cedar, winter mint and mulled wine candles; bars of soap (lavender was my choice) and delicious salsa (regular or pineapple). The students have done a terrific job and will have products available until mid-January.
Congratulations to Joyce Orange, winner of $195 in the Dec. 19 Chase the Ace draw. The jackpot (now
at about $5,800) remains unclaimed so keep buying those tickets.
The Village of Waseca is all lit up so take a drive and check it out. Winners of the recreation board’s Christmas lighting program are: first - Karen Pateman, second - Barry and Vi Broadhead, third - Rod and Barb Weisner, fourth - Randy Herman-Fretz.
Keep your eyes and ears tuned for news of Maidstone Museum’s winter plans.
They hope to have another snow event for everyone to enjoy after Christmas. There wasn’t room for Winter Fun Fest photos last week so we’ve included a couple this week.
As I write this (Dec.19), I realize tomorrow is the last day of school until Jan. 6. That’s a long holiday break so I hope everyone enjoys the opportunity to be with family, friends and others who are alone. Merry Christmas to all of you!
Maidstone Museum’s pioneer village was bustling with activity at Winter Fun Fest on Dec. 14. With darkness, the sky was “alight at night” with a fantastic fireworks display.
Maidstone High School carollers spread Christmas cheer throughout the community on Dec. 15 as they visited several residences and events around town to sing carols. They also performed the opening songs at Ratushniak Elementary School’s concert on Dec. 19. | Photos by Kathy Utri
