Regional News-Optimist January 30, 2025 by Battlefords News Optimist

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Saskatchewan Declares January 27, 2025, Family Literacy Day to Celebrate Literacy’s Role in Family Life

By Matthias J. Johnson Editor

The Government of Saskatchewan has officially designated January 27, 2025, as Family Literacy Day and the week of January 25 to 31, 2025, as Family Literacy Week, in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Literacy Network (SLN) and Family Literacy Hubs. This annual initiative aims to underscore the vital role that literacy plays in everyday family life.

Education Minister Everett Hindley emphasized the critical importance of family literacy, stating that it serves as a cornerstone for cultivating robust language skills and effective communication abilities in our children. This foundational skill set not only enriches the educational experiences of young learners but also significantly enhances their overall quality of life. As Hindley noted, “This week provides an opportunity for families to explore the many ways literacy can be incorporated into daily activities,” underscoring the myriad of opportunities available for families to weave literacy into their everyday routines, which can profoundly impact their children’s development.

In the upcoming fiscal year of 2024-25, the government has committed to bolstering literacy initiatives with a substantial allocation exceeding $1.1 million. This funding reflects a robust investment in the educational landscape of our communities,

demonstrating the government’s commitment to fostering literacy at all levels. Among these initiatives, a notable $593,000 has been earmarked to support family literacy programming specifically for nine Family Literacy Hubs strategically located throughout the

province. These hubs play a pivotal role in elevating literacy levels across Saskatchewan by enhancing public awareness regarding the significance of family literacy and collaborating with community organizations to develop sustainable, high-quality literacy pro-

Great Horned Owl

grams that meet the diverse needs of families.

In a fitting celebration of Family Literacy Week, the Government of Saskatchewan is delighted to actively support these Family Literacy Hubs throughout the province, highlighting this

Continued on page 2

Two charged after man stabbed on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation

Shortly after midnight on January 24, Beauval RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing at a residence on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation. The adult male victim was transported to hospital for treatment of what were described as non-life-threatening injuries.

RCMP officers from Patuanak and Ile a la Crosse Detachments were patrolling the area and located the suspect truck. The truck fled the area at a high rate of speed on Highway 965 and then 903 towards Meadow Lake. For

public safety reasons, RCMP officers, also including Meadow Lake Detachment and Police Dog Services, followed the vehicle, ultimately using a tire deflation device to stop the truck. One driver and one passenger were in the truck and both were arrested. As a result of continuing investigation:

24-year-old Christopher Nolan of Meadow Lake has been charged with:

• 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code

• 4 counts, possession of a

weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code

• 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code

• 3 counts, failure to comply with a release order, section 145(5)(a) of the Criminal Code Information #90536247. Christopher was also wanted on multiple outstanding warrants in relation to a 2024 investigation. Christopher will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

Our Members make our heartsFLUTTER! School Year Programming:

Non-School Days Program- WE AREOPENONTHE FEBRUARY BREAK NON-SCHOOL DAYS!

Youheard thatright, our Non-School Days programming will operate out of our Main Site Location (1301-104th Street)from Tuesday,Februar y18th –Friday, Februar y21st, with some super awesomethemes!This program operatesfrom 7:30am-5:30pmwith anutritious breakfast, lunch &afternoon snack provided. The best part is IT’S FREE! All you need is avalid 2025 Membershipform,unless your child(ren) has/have a2024-2025 Satellite Site Membership (for Bready,EMBM, Holy Family or BCS/St. Vital Programs)Come and join us for indoor/outdoor play,crafts, experiments, games and MORE! See you there!

Satellite Site Programs-Our Satellite Site Before &After School Programs are located at four elementar yschool locations- Battleford Central School (BCS) for BCS andSt. Vital students,Bready,EMBM, and Holy Family Schools (pleasenote Holy Familyonly offers an after-school option). Operatinghours are Monday to Friday,7:30am-8:30am, andfrom class dismissal to 5:30pm.Register your child(ren) nowand join us for outdoor play,arts& crafts, games, experiments, nutritious snacks and more!

Drop-in Program-Don't forget about the fun happening at our Main Site Drop-in Program! This program is offered FREE OF CHARGE to all our members ages 5-14.Operating hours are Monday- Friday,from 3:30pmto8:30pm and Saturdays from 1:00pm-4:00pm. Avalid 2025 Membership Form is required! Don't miss out on the fun! Come and join us fortons of outdoor time, arts &crafts, experiments, nutritious snacks &meals and so muchmore!

* For more informat ion on our program sa nd ho wt or egi ste r, visit ou rw ebsite at www.bgcbattlefords.ca

Februar ydates to remember:

•Saturday,Februar y1st–IFCU Saturday Program: Will Willie seehis Shadow?

•Sunday,Februar y2nd –Hockey Program

•Saturday, Februar y8th –IFCU Saturday Program: We are Pengtastic!

• Sunday,Februar y9th –Last Hockey Session.

•Wednesday,Februar y12th –Early Dismissal Day (programming begins at classdismissal).

•Friday,Februar y14th –HaveaHeartDay! &Happy Valentine’sDay!

•Saturday,Februar y15th –IFCU Saturday Program CLOSED.

•Monday,Februar y17th –Happy Family Day! Ofﬁce &all programmingCLOSED.

• Tuesday,Februar y18th –WEARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: LetKindness Grow!

•Wednesday,February 19th –WEARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: Hockey Day at the Club! Featuring aspecial visit from the Battlefords North Stars!(street hockey from 1:00pm-4:00pm).

•Thursday, Februar y20th –WEARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: Celebrating Black Histor yMonth.

•Friday,February 21st –WEARE OPEN! Non-School Day Program: Oh,the Places You’ll Go!

•Saturday, Februar y22nd –IFCU Saturday Program: Our Membersare Pawsome!

•Wednesday,Februar y26th –Pink Shirt Day! (weencourage everyone to wear your pink shirts on this day in support of this global anti-bullying movement).

Asareminder,our school year hoursofoperation areasfollows:

-Ofﬁce: Monday to Friday,8:30am –3:30pm

-Satellite Site Before School Programs:MondaytoFriday, 7:30am –8:30am (Bready, EMBM & BCS/St. Vital)

-Satellite Site After School Programs: Monday to Friday,class dismissal –5:30pm (Bready, EMBM, Holy Family &BCS/St. Vital)

-Drop-in Program (Main Site): Monday to Friday,class dismissal –8:30pm andSaturdays, 1:00pm –4:00pm

Continue to wa tch our Facebookpage (BGCBattlefords),Insta gram @bgcba ttlefords and website (www.bgcbattlefords.ca) for more updates.

34-year-old Michael Chatelaine of Flying Dust First Nation is charged with:

• 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code

• 4 counts, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code

• 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code

• 1 count, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, section 320.13(1) of the Criminal Code

• 1 count, flight from a police officer, section

320.14(1)(a) of the Criminal Code

• 1 count, refusal to comply with demand, section 320.15(1) of the Criminal Code

Information #90536247

He will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

Saskatchewan Declares January 27, 2025, Family Literacy Day to Celebrate Literacy’s Role in Family Life

Continued from page 1 year's selected book, "Fox and Bear," authored and illustrated by the talented Saskatchewan creator Miriam Körner. This heartwarming tale intricately follows the adventures of a fox and a bear as they explore their enchanting connection to the forest, beautifully aligning with the national theme for Literacy Week, "Learn to be Green, Together." The selection of such a meaningful book not only promotes reading but also encourages families to connect ecological awareness with the joy of storytelling. Moreover, the regional Family Literacy Hubs, in collaboration with their partners, have thoughtfully organized a variety of engaging events during Family Literacy Week. Phaedra Hitchings, Executive Direc-

tor of the SLN, articulated the sentiment that Family Literacy Day and Family Literacy Week serve as wonderful reminders that learning transcends traditional classroom settings and occurs everywhere in our daily lives. She remarked that “in the kitchen, at the park, or when sorting recycling, as families, we build skills and create special moments together when we create tasty recipes from leftovers, explore nature, or find new ways to reuse materials.” This year's theme provides a delightful opportunity to connect the essential concept of literacy with our everyday eco-friendly choices, reinforcing the idea that learning can be both fun and meaningful while promoting sustainability within our communities.

In conclusion, the designation of January 27, 2025,

as Family Literacy Day and the subsequent celebration of Family Literacy Week underscore the significant impact of literacy on family dynamics and community development. With a strong financial commitment to support family literacy initiatives, Saskatchewan is paving the way for enriching educational experiences that not only foster language skills but also promote ecological awareness and sustainable practices. As families engage in various fun and interactive activities, they will not only enhance their literacy skills but also create cherished memories together. This initiative is a powerful reminder that learning is a lifelong journey that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging families to embrace the joys of literacy in their everyday lives.

Crown, Defence make sentencing submissions in child pornography case

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORD–The case for Joseph Sproull returned for sentencing submissions from the Crown and Defence at the Court of King's Bench in Battleford Jan. 22nd.

At the time of the offences, he resided in Marshall where a home-based daycare used to also operate.

Sproull was previously found guilty on all eight charges–possessing and distributing child pornography, making child pornography x 2, as well as sexual assault x 2 and sexual interference x 2.

The two charges of sexual interference were stayed by the Crown for sentencing because a person can't be convicted of both sexual assault and sexual interference at the same time since the two offences are the same type of offence.

During court, Crown prosecutor Andrew Clements recommended a sentence of 18.5 years in totality for the charges given the gravity of the offences. Defence attorney Brian Pfefferle instead suggested a total of six years in custody would be appropriate as a global sentence.

Justice Grant Currie reserved his decision on the sentencing to Feb. 10.

In an emotional moment, victim impact statements

from the two victims' families were read aloud during court.

The first mother spoke out saying that Sproull "took advantage of the innocence and trust of the children... You're a monster."

She said her son suffered from nightmares afterwards. And she said she has never been able to trust a daycare again, since this experience.

"You broke me; you broke us," she said.

A letter from another victim's family was read aloud during court by a representative from Victim Services.

The writer said knowing her son was the victim of such heinous acts plunged her into depression.

"I will never be able to

trust a childcare [facility] again," she said.

"How dare you! You had no right to touch my child... It's not just reprehensible, but unforgivable."

A victim impact statement from a child's grandmother was also read in court.

"How could a human being do this?" the grandmother wrote.

As an aggravating factor, Crown prosecutor Andrew Clements said that Sproull is without remorse and did not accept responsibility for his actions, and maintained his innocence in the trial in October of 2024. He said the only mitigating factor is that Sproull has no criminal record.

Clements said the Sproull's actions had an "aggravating impact on the victims and the community."

The size of Sproull's collection of child pornography was also aggravating.

Clements described the case as "truly horrific."

Defence attorney Brian Pfefferle said as mitigating factors, the accused was a volunteer in the community.

He said Sproull, who is now 44 years old, had in the past experienced depression.

Pfefferle said this will be Sproull's first jail sentence. He added Sproull followed the conditions that were imposed on him when he was released on bail, after he was first charged with these offences in 2021.

Pfefferle noted that Sproull comes from a "pro-social" family that values the police.

He said since the charges, Sproull has been ostracized in the community of Marshall and had to move to Alberta.

Pfefferle went on to say "there is no sentence that will reverse the trauma to the victims."

Clements said after court there can be a wide range of sentencing for this type of case.

"There is a large range for this type of offence," said Clements. "The Defence thinks six years is more appropriate, but we think 18-and-a-half [years in custody] is more appropriate. Every offence, every offender is going to be different... I think for Mr. Sproull what he did is at the upper end of the spectrum. I'm hopeful we'll see a sentence closer to 18-and-a-half."

He said in the nine years he has been prosecuting these types of cases, this one is the worst that he has prosecuted.

"This offender not only created child sexual abuse material, but I think the daycare aspect is certainly something we haven't seen before. It makes it exceptionally aggravating in our opinion," Clements said. "He [Sproull] perpetrated abuse on very,

very young children in a position of trust and authority at a daycare. I think that makes this case stand out compared to a lot of cases we've seen in the province previously, where there is more typical downloading and uploading of child pornography."

Pfefferle noted it is a very challenging case to see.

"These are really difficult cases that any time that child exploitation images are involved or anytime there is involvement of children in the offences, it is extremely difficult to be involved in. I think that the Crown today in their sentencing submission pointed to a fact that everybody agrees with, and that's that children are our most valuable resource as Canadians, and when there is an allegation that they've been exploited or offended against, that's a troubling case. So emotionally these are difficult cases.

"It's also difficult when you have an accused person who has been found guilty, nevertheless asserts their innocence and continues to assert their innocence, because I understand the bad taste it could leave in the mouth of people that particularly view him as clearly guilty, and view him as a person who has victimized their children. It's a difficult case for the people involved," Pfefferle added.

Introducing FoodCopia: Transforming Food Bank Operations Across North America

SASKATOON, SK – Levis Tech is proud to announce the launch of FoodCopia, a groundbreaking cloud-based platform designed to empower food banks and revolutionize the way they manage their operations. What began as a solution for a local Saskatoon food bank has grown into a comprehensive platform poised to meet the diverse and evolving needs of food banks across North America.

A Solution Born from Local Challenges

When Levis Tech partnered with a Saskatoon food bank to streamline their donation management, they uncovered a much larger issue: food banks have long been underserved by the tech community. Recognizing the potential to drive meaningful change, Levis Tech developed FoodCopia, a platform that combines powerful technology with an empathetic understanding of food bank challenges.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Food Assistance

The need for food assistance is at an all-time high.

In the United States, over 53

million people relied on food banks and meal programs in 2021, a one-third increase from pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, in Canada, food banks recorded over 2 million visits in March 2024, a staggering 90% rise compared to 2019. With nearly 700,000 monthly visits by children in Canada and rising costs impacting households across both countries, food banks are more essential than ever.

Food banks face unprecedented challenges in balancing growing demand with limited resources. In Canada, one-third of food bank clients are children, and the proportion of two-parent families accessing food banks has increased significantly, reaching nearly 23% in 2024. High housing costs are a driving factor, forcing many families to spend over 80% of their disposable income on basic needs. In the U.S., food banks have seen a decline in new donors, with a 17.4% drop in 2023 compared to the previous year, further straining their ability to meet community needs.

How FoodCopia is

FoodCopia is more than an inventory management tool; it is a customizable cloud solution built to adapt to the unique needs of food banks.

Key features include:

• Real-time inventory tracking to minimize waste and ensure efficient distribution.

• Streamlined check-in/ check-out processes to simplify operations.

• Comprehensive reporting tools to enhance transparency and strategic decision-making.

• Flexible customization to support the diverse requirements of food banks, large and small.

• FoodCopia is cost-effective, ensuring that organizations of all sizes can benefit. Smaller food banks can access the platform for free, making it an accessible solution for those with limited resources.

Why Levis Tech?

Levis Tech, founded in 2018 in Saskatoon, specializes in creating tailored software solutions for organizations making a difference. From startups to Fortune 500 companies, Levis Tech’s expertise lies in developing platforms that drive impact. FoodCopia exemplifies this mission, offering food banks the tools they need to over-

come challenges and focus on their core mission: feeding their communities.

“We saw firsthand how technology could alleviate the operational burdens on food banks, and we knew this was something we could scale to support others across North America,” said Jared Fedorchuk, Co-Founder and CEO of Levis Tech. “FoodCopia is designed to empower food banks, not just with technology, but with the confidence to serve their communities better.”

Looking to the Future Food banks are on the

front lines of the fight against hunger, and their resilience is inspiring. With FoodCopia, Levis Tech is committed to being a reliable partner in their journey, providing the tools, training, and support they need to thrive.

For more information about FoodCopia and its mission to support food banks, please contact: Jared Fedorchuk

Co-Founder and CEO, Levis Tech Email: jared@levistech.ca info@foodcopia. ca Phone: (306) 250-5387 Website: https://levistech.ca https://foodcopia.ca

Joseph Sproull is escorted into the court house on Jan. 22, 2025. | Photo by Angela Brown

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Man was made to Mourn

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

Robert Burns in “Man was made to mourn” spoke of “Man’s inhumanity to man” a phrase seized upon by other poets and writers. It comes to mind with the memory of Auschwitz and other concentration camps. The liberations happened barely eighty years ago - well within my lifetime. Most appropriately our Prime Minister is in attendance in Poland for memorial ceremonies along with other world leaders and survivors.

Despite centuries of unrest and war, this world is not at peace. We are clear-

ly reminded of this by Mr. Trump’s sudden recommendation that defence spending should be increased to 5% of GDP by all NATO countries. In Canada’s case, our level would need to be increased three times which is impossible. Mr. Trump, bloated by sudden power, should realize that spending on defence also aids spending on offence. Absolute world peace would involve no spending in either parameter.

Gerardus Mercator, a Flemish cartographer, in 1569 introduced a way of projecting maps in a cylindrical fashion. This widely adopted system causes vertical distortion, for example in the case of Greenland and Antarctica. Mr. Trump, a man of expansive views, must have been studying his globe. This would show him that with no distortion the land mass of Canada and the U.S. with Greenland balancing Alaska can be viewed as an integrated area. This understanding goes a long way to explain Mr. Trumps’s obsession with Canada becoming the 51st, state. We are being told that

the U.S. does not need our minerals, oil, lumber or agricultural products and that the threatened tariffs will obviate the dollar trading imbalance. If they don’t need our products and services, what does Mr. Trump want? Well. I have just explained that he has a global view of the world and seeks territorial expansion for which he plans to go down in history. Meanwhile, others have tried to explain Mr. Trump’s problematic attitude towards Canada. Some feel he is motivated by personal animosities and vindictiveness. Others perceive simple pleasure being derived from causing fear and confusion. Others

again see perverse arrogance and disdain for lesser mortals. Personally, I think our problems arise from all these factors and regard the next four years with alarm. There is no doubt whatsoever that Mr. Trump can bring this country to its economic knees and force us to grant his wishes and commands. It is grossly unwise for any of our politicians to provoke this man further. He will be aware of the thoughts of each individual politician and the decisions of their hastily called trade discussions. It is absolutely incredible and shows gross incompetence for our Parliament to be in

Management

such a state of disarray and not even functioning at this time. It was perfectly obvious that a change in U.S. government was likely to follow the Biden years. This current Parliament shambles is absolutely outrageous and for Mr. Trudeau to resign at this time is incomprehensible and unforgivable. Liberals should be banned from entering the House of Commons by the Sergeant at Arms.

While I don’t entirely agree with Robert Burns that man was made or born to mourn, world unrest and the deterioration of Canada/ U.S. relations sure contrive to make one mournful.

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RCMP report for Battleford shows overall increase in calls in third-quarter report

By Angela Brown, SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORD–Battlefords RCMP reports calls for service increased in 2024 in the latest quarterly report compared to the same time in 2023 in the town of Battleford.

Insp. Jesse Gilbert made a presentation to Battleford town council at its meeting Jan. 6 about the findings.

From July to Sept. 2024, the RCMP received a total of 301 calls for service, up by nine per cent from 275 calls for the same period in 2024.

Cases of assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm increased to nine for the period in 2024, compared to one for the same time last year.

"There was a bit of a spike in assaults, particularly assault with a weapon," Gilbert said, adding that for total assaults the five-year trend does show a decrease overall.

Property crimes saw a decrease in the number of calls for service, coming in at 82 calls for the quarter in 2024, compared to 99 for the same time in 2023, reflecting a 17 per cent decrease.

False alarm calls were up at significantly at 22 reports for the period in 2024, compared to two for the same time last year.

Looking at the past five years, the year-to-date tally shows 824 total calls for service, 20 per cent below the average of calls over the past five years for the January to September period.

In speaking to council, Gilbert said he would like to get two more Police and Crisis Team (PACT) members to help with mental health related calls for service. Currently, the detachment has two PACT workers looking after this scope of work.

"It's something we broached to the province; it's

an area we are looking at," he said. "They help out with a lot of other calls [also]... The PACT will attend calls if they feel they may be able to assist... They offer a much broader service to this community, to the city, and the First Nations than just mental health calls."

As far as staffing goes, the Battlefords RCMP could benefit from having more members as it is experiencing some vacancies. It currently has two new recruits coming shortly. A couple more senior members are expected to come in the spring.

"We're starting to see a little bit of a turnaround in the desireability of wanting to come here," Gilbert said.

He noted many people who've worked with the RCMP in the Battlefords before want to come back, which is good to see.

On the RCMP report overall, Mayor Ames Leslie said the numbers have to be taken with a grain of salt, to keep everything in perspective.

"The numbers were there," he said. "Anybody can interpret RCMP stats one way or the other. You can look and say crime is up or you can look and say the RCMP are doing their job. That's the danger of statistics. The more the RCMP are out there, the more people they are going to catch. The more crime there is, the more RCMP are responding. The areas that needed to be down were down."

Leslie added that seeing assault with a weapon numbers up is a "pause for caution," but it's "not a norm."

"We'll watch this into the next quarter, which we'll see here shortly, as the inspector had told us, to see if that trend continues," he said.

Leslie noted that many of the statistics in the report showed numbers were down in many categories, which is good to see.

He said he would like to see more officers focusing on speed control in the town, to be present and cut down on the number of drivers speeding.

"Overall, the RCMP are conducting themselves in a way that council is happy with, and we look forward to continually working to reduce the amount of crime that we have in our community," Leslie added.

The Battlefords will be seeing the provincial police force called the Saskatchewan Marshals Service coming here in the next few months, as announced by the province last year.

"In recent news, they are trying to fast track the start of this to April or May of 2025," Leslie said. "We keep hearing the RCMP training depot is never at capacity. They are having a hard time getting recruitment."

He hopes the Marshall team members aren't coming from existing policing forces, since that would have an impact on numbers across the province.

"If the Marshall service is effective in recruiting new people that aren't taking away from the everyday people working in our towns and cities, I'm good with that. But it's yet to be determined how they are going to staff their service."

On a positive side, the mayor believes having the Marshall service active in the community will be another layer of protection in policing for residents.

"If the Marshall service is successful, that they can complement what we already have, whether it's the RCMP or city polices or whatever other force may be out there, absolutely [it's a good thing]. Sometimes we just need more response; if they can get to the smaller communities quicker than the RCMP, it's just better for everybody."

Battlefords RCMP seek public’s help locating male wanted for

On January 24, 2025 at approximately 9 p.m., Battlefords RCMP received a report of a serious assault at a residence on 18th Avenue in North Battleford.

Officers immediately responded. Investigation determined an altercation occurred between two adult males. One stabbed the other, who was taken to hospital with injuries described as serious in nature.

The suspect then fled the scene of the assault. It was determined he was on court-ordered conditions, including a curfew that was electronically monitored, and orders not to possess a knife.

As a result of continued investigation, 25-year-old Keaton Nicotine from North Battleford is charged with:

• one count, aggravated assault, Section 268(2), Criminal Code;

• one count, uttering threats, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code; and

• one count, fail to comply with release order condition, Section 145(5)(a),

Criminal Code.

(Information #90559908)

A warrant has been issued for his arrest and Battlefords RCMP are actively working to locate him.

Officers ask members of the public to report all sightings of Keaton Nicotine and information on his whereabouts.

Keaton Nicotine is described as approximately 6’ tall and 180 lbs. He has brown hair and brown eyes. A photo of him is attached.

If you see him, do not approach him. Call Battlefords RCMP by dialling 310RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.

Learning Fort Battleford’s historical significance

By Jon Perez SaskToday.ca

The Battlefords are a significant part of Saskatchewan's history and are connected to the experiences of Indigenous peoples. This region, which includes Fort Battleford, was a focal point in the story of Treaty 6, an agreement that promised peace, provisions, and land in exchange for Indigenous peoples’ land.

Office of the Treaty Commissioner Speakers Bureau members Aaron Tootoosis and Lyndon J. Linklater discussed the historical elements of The Battlefords and its relation to implementing the provisions of Treaty 6 at the Fort Battleford National Historic Site in December. Bryan Tootoosis also shared his insights.

“The Battle of Cut Knife on May 2, 1885, of course, begins here. We don’t think much of the Fort. But this is where [Lieutenant] Colonel [William] Otter came with his troops. He took the train to Swift Current and marched his troops up here.

[Major General Frederick] Middleton was coming up from Fort Qu’Appelle, and Otter was coming from Swift Current. It was part of their strategic plan,” said Tootoosis, the son of local

historian Eric Tootoosis.

“The whole expedition was put into place to control the Indians here. I used Indians because we want to maintain that history and that reference in history as we would. We call it resistance when we talk about trying to reconcile things, reconcile history. It was not a rebellion. We went through 100 years of history dominated by non-Indians [and] non-Indigenous Peoples. We’re writing [books] about our people.”

He added that the Indigenous Peoples of the New World, when Christopher Columbus arrived in the late 1400s, were known as Indians first since, during that time, India as a country did not yet exist, and the region was known as Bharat.

Established in the late 19th century, Fort Battleford was a military outpost intended to enforce and manage the relationship between the settlers and the First Nations based on the Treaty. The Treaty, however, is far more complicated, as it became both a symbol of colonial power and a place of tension, conflict, and resistance for Indigenous peoples.

Bryan Tootoosis, an Elder of the Poundmaker Cree Nation, said it is essential

to learn and teach everyone about the proud history of First Nations peoples.

“There were maps, boundaries. [But] there were no boundaries before the signing of Treaty Six. There is much history. Today, it is essential to remember that we should partner with our Cree, First Nations, or Indian peoples to interpret our history. We have to start planning and try to bring children, so this is a good way to explain the history,” said Bryan Tootoosis.

“We must take responsibility to try and teach as much as possible. To teach what we’re like. To teach, for example, Nov. 11 is Veterans Day. You talk about etymology and what makes that word. Before Treaties, there are no veterans. We had warriors and fighters before that. What is important now is that when we talk to kids and have our ceremonies and dances, we teach our children — university, high school, or kindergarten students. We got to bring them here [Fort Battleford].”

Linklater backed up Bryan Tootoosis, adding that what is being done at the Fort Battleford National Historic Site helps people learn what is recorded in history. He even quoted

the 2023 film Napoleon, in which the former French leader said: History is nothing more than lies agreed upon.

“When I went to school, I learned history from books. Who wrote those books? Whoever wrote those books controlled the narrative. What’s happening here is the truth being told, and it is a significant time you’re living in, called Truth and Reconciliation. It is important not to forget the truth. The truth is hard to listen to sometimes,” said Linklater, an Ojibwe or Anishinaabe on their language on his father’s side.

“It’s a big world. All of us belong to it. In our history, as people, we fight. In this history, in this country, there has been fighting that happened in the past. But today is a new day. I want to live in a world where it shouldn’t matter what colour of skin I have, how I pray, how I dress, or which pronouns I use. I want to live in a world where it shouldn’t matter.”

Linklater, from the Thunderchild First Nation, said the reservations were created after the signing of Treaty 6 in 1876, which became essential to Canada’s colonial expansion. Indigenous leaders agreed to terms that promised land, food, and other supplies in exchange for the Canadian government's acquisition of vast tracts of land.

“The ones who signed put their mark on the Treaty, created these places called Indian Reservations. They start to pop up. There was this leader, Thunderchild, who said, ‘I’m not going to put my mark. I don’t trust these guys. They say one thing, but they do another. I will go live with how we’ve been living thousands of years,’” recalled Linklater.

He added that with more settlers coming in, his people starving due to food scarcity, and the buffalo almost extinct, Thunderchild was forced to sign the Treaty in what is now known as

Sounding Lake, Alberta.

Fort Battleford played a significant role in implementing these promises, serving as a distribution point for provisions like food and goods that were supposed to support the Indigenous signatories. However, these provisions were often delayed, insufficient, or mismanaged, leaving many First Nations in a state of deprivation and frustration.

Fort Battleford became central to the Treaty's role in provisioning, which was not just about delivering goods but also a place for conflict negotiation, representing the broader issues of colonial control. The treatment of resources was inconsistent, leaving many communities struggling to survive and contributing to a growing sense of betrayal and mistrust.

While Fort Battleford reminds us of colonial authority, it is also a place where Indigenous peoples resisted and negotiated for their rights and survival.

The commemorative events marking this milestone provide a space to examine how these colonial structures impacted Indigenous communities and continue to affect their relationships with the Canadian government.

“Many injustices have occurred, things were wrong, and we’re learning about them today. During the rebellion in 1895, I heard a story about this man from my grandmother, my kukum. The Nehiyawak People did not want to fight, and they were supposed to carry a white flag as a sign of surrender. But they were from different cultures, and who will be the one to tell them that?,” said Linklater, who added the Nehiyawak representative was shot after getting off from his horse.

The signing of Treaty 6 did not mark the end of the struggle for the Indigenous peoples involved. Many of the promised benefits were slow to materialize, and the reserves designated for

Indigenous nations were often too small and poorly managed.

Tootoosis, a Plains Cree from the Poundmaker Indian Reserve, said the failures of what was promised on Treaty 6 contributed to widespread dissatisfaction and set the stage for subsequent conflicts, including the resistance during the North-West Rebellion of 1885.

“Battleford was the capital of the North-West Territories years ago. You’ve got battles here. It was an important military outpost for the Canadian government, but it also symbolized resistance for many Indigenous peoples who sought to protect their land and rights. The Battle of Battleford, which occurred during the 1885 North-West Rebellion, remains one of the defining moments in the region’s history,” said Tootoosis.

“The events surrounding the 1885 resistance further complicate the legacy of Fort Battleford. Indigenous fighters, led by leaders like Big Bear, fought to assert their sovereignty in response to the government's failure to honour the terms of Treaty 6. The resistance was not a sudden attack but a strategic defence, as Indigenous warriors prepared for the inevitable confrontation with the Canadian military.”

He added that the narrative that emerged in the colonial press had exaggerated casualty reports and painted the battle as a violent uprising rather than a struggle for survival and justice. These mischaracterizations have persisted over time, obscuring the true nature of the Indigenous resistance and further complicating the region's history.

The OTC’s Speakers Bureau has helped promote the history of the treaties and the narratives that have long excluded Indigenous perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the implementation of Treaty 6.

Peavey Mart obtains creditor protection, confirms nationwide closures

By Anastasiia Bykhovskaia

RED DEER, Alta. – Canada’s largest farm and ranch retail chain, Peavey Industries LP, announced on Jan. 27 that it has obtained creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) from the Court of King’s Bench Alberta, and confirmed it will begin closing sales at all 90 Peavey Mart stores and six MainStreet Hardware locations across Canada, the company said in a media release on Monday evening.

The closures and liquidation efforts will commence immediately.

The decision follows the recent announcement of closure of 22 stores in Ontario and Nova Scotia and comes amid challenges including inflation, supply disruptions and rising costs

The decision to seek creditor protection and close all stores was made after thorough evaluation of available options, in consultation with legal and financial advisors, the company said. The Canadian retail industry is experiencing unprecedented challenges, including record-low consumer confidence, inflationary pressures, rising op-

erating costs and ongoing supply disruptions along with a difficult regulatory environment. These factors have created significant obstacles for businesses like Peavey, they added.

“This was a profoundly difficult decision, but one that allows us to explore the best possible alternatives for the future of the company,” said Doug Anderson, President and CEO of Peavey Industries LP. “For nearly six decades, our customers’ loyalty, employees’ dedication and the resilience of the

communities we serve have been the cornerstone of our business. We remain focused on working with our partners and stakeholders to preserve the Peavey brand and the value it represents.”

The company’s immediate priority is to generate liquidity through the closure process while continuing to work with funders, partners and stakeholders to explore potential opportunities to preserve the brand, the company said.

SaskToday will continue to follow the situation.

Twin City TRANSMISSION

The decision to close all Peavey Mart stores nationwide comes amid challenges including inflation, supply disruptions and rising costs, the company says.

Saskatoon, Sask. Jan. 15, 2025 — In response to mounting pressure on the healthcare system, Saskatchewan Blue Cross has launched a groundbreaking strategic collaboration that offers expert virtual care and mental health support through Cleveland Clinic Canada and Homewood Health. This new integrated care model ensures that plan members, regardless of location or circumstance, have immediate access to healthcare and mental health support 24/7/365* through a comprehensive and cross-referring extended care network that will be included with all Saskatchewan Blue Cross health plans in 2025. With critical healthcare access gaps, particularly for those who live in rural or remote areas and those who cannot secure a family doctor, this new comprehensive offering will provide accessible, high-quality care when people need it most.

Support anytime, anywhere

Through this new offering, members will have 24/7/365* virtual access–ensuring that members everywhere, including in rural or underserved communities, can access medical expertise, expert mental health support and life coaching without travelling or waiting for extended periods.

“At Saskatchewan Blue Cross, we understand the pressure on the healthcare system and believe that whether you live in a city or a remote community, regardless of income or social status, our members should all have access to health and mental wellness support,” said Kelly Wilson, President and CEO of Saskatchewan Blue Cross. “This new innovative solution provided by two Canadian health leaders enables us to provide a

comprehensive, 360-degree support system that prioritizes the health and wellbeing of our members and ensures equitable access to critical services, no matter where individuals live. By integrating virtual care with the Employee Family Assistance Program and mental health services, we can ensure that help is always available.”

Individuals with ongoing health issues, mental health challenges, or general health concerns will have access to personalized care, easy access to referrals across provinces, connections to specialists and smoother, more consistent care.

This comprehensive solution will be available to all Saskatchewan Blue Cross plans in 2025, empowering individuals and families to manage their physical and mental health anytime, anywhere.

The key to long-term health and wellbeing

Beyond immediate care, the services provided through this integrated solution support preventative wellness as a critical part of long-term health and wellness. These services include Life Smart Coaching, which assists with financial and family care, smoking cessation, lifestyle changes, nutrition, career coaching, workplace issues, pre-retirement planning and more. These programs offer individuals and families the knowledge and tools to make educated health choices while building positive habits to improve their wellbeing and Health Literacy.

Saskatchewan Blue Cross empowers members to take

charge of their health by providing tools for selfcare, stress management and healthy lifestyle changes. Providing critical tools during times of heightened stress

As Canadians continue to face the mental and emotional tolls of public health concerns, economic instability and societal changes, mental health has become a growing priority. Reports from health authorities show that mental health concerns, including stress, anxiety and depression, have reached record levels. Recognizing the importance of mental health, Saskatchewan Blue Cross and Homewood Health are offering plan members a comprehensive Individual Assistance Program (IAP) and Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) that include support for stress, anxiety, depression, grief, burnout, addiction, relationship issues and more. Mental health support is available through multiple channels, including face-to-face, telephone, video and online communication, ensuring flexible and easy access for anyone in need.

Homewood Health offers counselling and coaching services through short-term, goal-focused solutions, ensuring individuals have consistent support and a clear path to navigate varying mental health challenges.

Through this innovative collaboration, plan members will have access to a full suite of services that cover physical, emotional and mental wellness, including: Comprehensive EFAP and

IAP support:

• Mental health counselling and coaching: Confidential and personalized counselling and coaching sessions are provided in a short-term, solution-focused model. Members receive an average of four counselling sessions per issue, with no limit to the number of cases for which they can seek support.

• Enhanced mental health care: This more intensive mental health service provides mid- to longer-term mental health support and up to 20 sessions of specialized counselling, as determined on a per-case basis by Homewood Health. This coverage is offered to support members presenting with moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and/or substance abuse-related concerns.

• Elder and Knowledge Keeper access: Each person has needs that may or may not be fulfilled through standard counselling methods. For members who prefer a more culturally traditional approach, they can request to connect with an Elder or Traditional Healer in their community for support outside of the EFAP. Homewood can also provide counsellor matching to clinical experts specializing in Indigenous Culture. • Life Smart Coaching: Life Balance Solutions, Health Smart Coaching and Career Smart Coaching.

Extensive online resources:

• An online platform with a wealth of interactive mental health resources, including Homewood Pathfinder – an intuitive solution for finding the right tools or support at the right time.

• Sentio iCBT: An online cognitive behavioural therapy program designed to provide support for mild to moderate depression, anxi-

ety and other mental health issues.

• Health Risk Assessments (HRAs), child and elder care resources and locators to help members make informed health decisions.

• A library of health and wellness articles, video and audio.

• Self-directed e-learning courses on a variety of health and wellness topics.

“Homewood Health is pleased to be providing an innovative and integrated health solution that combines two best-in-class providers of EFAP, mental health and virtual care services”, said Jagoda Pike, President and Chief Executive Officer of Homewood Health. “We are equally excited to be partnering with Saskatchewan Blue Cross and making a key contribution to enhancing health care in Saskatchewan.”

Unparalleled access, convenience and personalization of virtual care

Cleveland Clinic Canada is part of a global healthcare organization that has provided high-quality patient care for over a century and a trusted source of health information. Members will also have on-demand access to virtual care through a team of Nurse Practitioners across Canada. This service allows immediate consultations, follow-ups and referrals. Key features of the virtual care program include:

• 24/7/365 availability across Canada (Quebec: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. excluding statutory holidays)

• Minimal wait times

• Uncapped visits, including follow-ups for continuity of care

• Personalized care tailored to each member’s individual needs

• Direct connection to Nurse Practitioners for personalized, professional medical advice

• Referrals to specialists,

both within and outside the Cleveland Clinic Canada network

• Ability to issue prescriptions and requisitions for labs, imaging and more “Cleveland Clinic has been at the forefront of modern medicine since 1921 and is committed to finding innovative solutions to improve the lives of our patients,” said Michael Kessel, the President and CEO of Cleveland Clinic Canada. “Access to timely care is essential to maintaining good health and we are honoured to support Saskatchewan Blue Cross members.”

This virtual care offering ensures that all members have access to medical expertise whenever and wherever they need it in Canada. This includes consultations for multiple concerns related to physical health, mental wellness, or chronic conditions in one visit.

*Virtual Care by Cleveland Clinic Canada is available 24/7/365 across Canada, outside of Quebec where services are available 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. excluding statutory holidays.

About Saskatchewan Blue Cross For more than 75 years, Saskatchewan Blue Cross® has been committed to delivering exceptional health and wellness benefits, travel insurance and life insurance solutions to Saskatchewan residents and employers. A locally based, not-for-profit organization, it’s recognized as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers, one of the Top 100 Companies in Saskatchewan, one of Canada’s Top 100 Brands (as part of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross® Plans) and proudly supports the wellbeing of more than 200,000 members. With a mission to empower communities on their journey to whole health and wellness and a vision for a future of lifelong health and well-being for every person in Saskatchewan, this team is committed to advancing and benefiting the communities they call home. Learn more at: sk.bluecross.ca.

USask to Offer Nursing Education in Ten Saskatchewan Communities

Written by Kylie Kelso

Senior

Written by Kylie Kelso Senior Marketing and Communications Specialist, University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing

Marketing

and Communications Specialist, University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing

“I found this to be such a great opportunity to attend the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and have access to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program right in my community of La Ronge,” says USask College of Nursing BSN student Leandra McLeod.

McLeod is completing her third year of the BSN program at the USask College of Nursing distributed nursing site in La Ronge.

Since 2012, USask College of Nursing has been offering the undergraduate BSN program at a number of locations throughout Saskatchewan.

Currently, students can complete their entire BSN degree in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, La Ronge, Île-à-laCrosse, Yorkton, Lloydminster, North Battleford, and Muenster.

2025, students from Swift Current and Weyburn will also have the opportunity to complete their entire nursing degree in their community.

“We listened to the people of Saskatchewan and over the last two years announced our expansion to four additional locations in the province where students previously did not have access to the BSN program,” said USask College of Nursing Dean Dr. Solina Richter (DCur).

“It is important our program offering is inclusive of rural and remote areas of Saskatchewan. When the students at the distributed nursing sites complete their nursing degrees, they will help to fill unmet registered nursing workforce needs in rural Saskatchewan. We are decreasing the likelihood of these communities experiencing a registered nursing shortage, as the students will likely practice in the community once becoming licensed.”

something I knew I always wanted to do, but as a single mother, moving away from Prince Albert to complete my nursing degree was not realistic,” says USask College of Nursing student Desiré Hoare, who is finishing her fourth year in the BSN program at the USask Prince Albert Campus.

Both McLeod and Hoare say the opportunity to learn where they live has been a wonderful experience.

USask to Offer Nursing Education in Ten Saskatchewan Communities

Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse. Since the first students entered the BSN program in La Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse, 68 nursing students have completed their degree in

northern Saskatchewan.

Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse.

Since the first students entered the BSN program in La Ronge and Île-à-la-Crosse, 68 nursing students have completed their degree in

northern Saskatchewan.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to study nursing in Prince Albert,” adds Hoare.

For more information on

Saskatchewan Polytechnic business students transform learning into real-world success

Written by Saskatchewan Polytechnic

“The small class sizes in La Ronge and the additional help you get from instructors when needed means there is a lot of one-on-one time,” says McLeod. “I would recommend the BSN program to anyone who has an interest in healthcare.”

“I am so grateful for the the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, please visit https://admissions.usask.ca/

the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, please visit https://admissions.usask.ca/ nursing.php.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic business students transform learning into real-world success

Written by Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Beginning September

Currently, students can complete their entire BSN degree in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, La Ronge, Île-à-laCrosse, Yorkton, Lloydminster, North Battleford, and Muenster.

Beginning September

“Becoming a nurse was

One of the great benefits of a polytech nic education is applied learning where students take what they learn in the classroom, shop or lab and apply it in a realworld setting. Instructors at Saskatch ewan Polytechnic's School of Busi Entrepreneurship embrace the concept and are expanding opportunities for students to connect their program learning with partner organizations, business and industry before they graduate.

It took McLeod six years to take the leap, but watching a number of peers go through the BSN program in La Ronge ultimately motivated her to apply.

The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven successful at distributed sites like La

It took McLeod six years to take the leap, but watching a number of peers go through the BSN program in La Ronge ultimately motivated her to apply.

The College of Nursing Learn Where You Live model has proven successful at distributed sites like La

One of the great benefits of a polytechnic education is applied learninga method where students take what they learn in the classroom, shop or lab and apply it in a realworld setting. Instructors at Saskatchewan Polytechnic's School of Business and Entrepreneurship embrace the concept and are expanding opportunities for students to connect their program learning with partner organizations, business and industry before they graduate.

Academic chair Kirsten Downey has been

tiatives in the riety across a wide range of courses. "All of our students should have the chance to take the concepts they learn from their instructors and

tracking applied learning initiatives in the school and is pleased to see such variety across a wide range of courses. "All of our students should have the chance to take the concepts they learn from their instructors and apply them to see actual results," she says.

Ashley Hatley, who teaches marketing, guided her class on a market research project initiated by the City of Moose Jaw. "Students presented their findings to City of Moose Jaw representatives in early December," reports Hatley.

Continued on following page

2025-26PROGRAMS

AdultBasic

Business

CommunityServices Conversation

Early

GeneralInterest

Health

Micro-Credentials

CarpentryCertificate

BSNPre-Professional

Foroverforty

EXPERIENCE NWC ADMISSIONS OP

Business pathways start at Medicine Hat College

Written by Medicine Hat College

Taylor Hicke chose Medicine Hat College (MHC) for its small size, welcoming community and proximity to his hometown of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, but the connections he made and the opportunities he had led to his decision to stay.

“The biggest highlight of my experience was the relationships I was able to build through my two years at MHC,” says the Sport & Event Marketing and Management graduate from the School of Business. “Some of my instructors became mentors and that was a big part of my success within the program.”

MHC’s School of Business is deeply connected to Southeast Alberta, providing real world learning experiences for students across all of its programs. In addition to specialty programs like Sport & Event Marketing and Management and Service Dog and Canine Management Studies, the school offers

a robust Business Administration diploma program with majors in accounting, financial services, management and marketing, plus pathways to further education like degrees and professional designations. A diploma in Administrative Office Management and certificate options for Administrative Office Professional, Advanced Accounting, Intermediate Accounting and Marketing (new for Fall 2025) are also available.

education to work as a member of the marketing team at South Country Coop’s Business Support Centre.

“My studies at MHC really prepared me for my career and everything I am doing on a daily basis like marketing plans, sponsorship and graphic design,” says Taylor. He also continues in his role as basketball game night lead for Rattlers Athletics, utilizing his event management skills and keeping him connected to MHC.

As Taylor discovered, students in MHC’s School of Business don’t just study. They engage in immersive experiences, learn directly from seasoned industry professionals, delve into real company case studies, and, in select programs, participate in transformative workplace integrated learning. For Taylor, that meant hands-on group work to create marketing campaigns for local businesses, provide support for sporting events, and fundraise for community causes.

Now Taylor is putting his

Continued from previous page

"The project gave students an in-depth look at economic development opportunities and then allowed them to practice presenting what they learned in front of an actual client."

“We’re here to help students discover their passions,” adds Dr. Morgan Blair, dean of the School of Business and Continuing Studies. ”Through rigorous coursework, networking opportunities, and enriching extracurricular activities, students cultivate the professional they aspire to become. Connected. Confident. Capable. When you enroll with us, you're not just starting a course or program – you're launching your career.”

Get started today! Visit www.mhc.ab.ca/welcomeSK

Students transform learning into real-world

success

working with a real organization. "Knowing they were working with an actual client made it exciting for the students as they knew they had to deliver," she explains.

making connections, notes Downey. Some opportunities are part of instructors' curriculum and others are addon opportunities that require students to apply.

Human resources instructor Genelle Payant connected her class with Thunder Creek Rehabilitation Association. Without dedicated human resources expertise, Thunder Creek's job descriptions were out of date. Students created new job descriptions and used them to write job postings. Executive director Chad Topp was pleased with the work, saying, "The ideas and drafts we received helped us to make attractive and enticing postings. We had been using job descriptions as postings, and this project helped us understand how the two are different and what makes for a great job posting."

Payant notes she has done similar exercises in the past but this was the first time

Instructor Megan Moulding's business insurance students had an opportunity to work with Saskatchewan Insurance Professionals. Students took turns staging a social media takeover, where they created videos about an insurance-related topic or about themselves and why they chose insurance, then posted them to the organization's social pages. "The students really enjoyed the assignment and used a lot of creativity," shares Moulding. The results were impressive, with one takeover post generating more than 1,000 impressions and the daily average for all student posts close to 550. "For a small organization, that's real reach," says Moulding.

Practicing what you have learned by doing it before entering the workforce is key to

Two students specializing in Sport Management were selected to travel to the 2024 Grey Cup Festival in Vancouver, where they assisted with the Sask Polytech and Canadian Football League's Player Association (CFLPA) partnership activation. Robyn Dutertre and Joshua Grant helped with a kickoff party where they had the chance to connect with CFL alumni and other attendees. Instructor Chelsea Jones says it was a great opportunity to work with a sports organization of that calibre. Dutertre agrees, "Our trip to work with the CFLPA deepened our understanding of the sports industry and provided practical insights that will benefit our future."

For more information v1s1t saskpolytech.ca/ business.

Team Work Continues in Meota

By Trudy Janssens Correspondent

The good news is that the ‘blizzard’ has passed. I was out walking in the wind storm on Friday and I couldn’t even see any of the ice fishing shacks on the lake. We developed a few more snow drifts, but by and large the streets in Meota are wonderfully maintained. We go back and forth to Saskatoon to see the family and it’s so appreciated to see how well maintained the roads in Meota are. It’s pretty typical for Saskatoon to blow through their snow removal budget early and after that it’s almost impossible to park or even navigate the rutted roads.

It’s interesting to receive messages from neighbours and friends who have gone

south for the winter. They are all enjoying the heat, but it’s obvious that they miss their Canadian community. My father often remarked after he moved to BC that he couldn’t believe how much he missed his prairie friends. He couldn’t explain the difference in people but he had to admit that prairie residents develop very close bonds. Possibly living in this climate makes us appreciate each other and keep checking in with each other.

This week was a great example of coming together with a group of residents to work together. Six of us dug out our paint gear and pitched in to get the ‘Do Drop In’ painted. The floor had already been laid, so we had to be extra careful. In less then eight hours, spread over two days, we applied

14 gallons of paint. Door frames and baseboards are going in now and it won’t be long and the plumbing will be complete. It’s looking like the February 1st work completion deadline will be met. Meota is looking forward to having a Nurse Practitioner working here once a week.

Everyone is looking forward to resuming all the activities at the ‘Do Drop In’, starting with resuming the Wednesday morning Chat and Chew. For a $10.00 annual membership fee, you are welcomed to all the activities at the ‘Do Drop In’. You can also rent the facility for your family event for as little as $50.00. Hopefully the fees don’t increase due to the facility upgrade. You can always volunteer to get involved and have your say.

Grassland Conservation Takes Flight: Innovative Project Aims to Conserve Declining Grassland Bird Populations

Chestnut-collared Longspur from disappearing from the Canadian Prairies.

In a groundbreaking step to address the decline of grassland bird populations, Birds Canada and the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (SSGF) have launched the Bird-friendliness Index Incentive Pilot Program. Using the holistic conservation model, this new pilot program aims to address the needs of birds, biodiversity, and the people who make a living on the land.

The science clearly shows the urgent need to address grassland bird declines. This innovative new project, supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), will develop a new and durable conservation approach to help keep unique grassland birds, such as the

Central to this project is the Bird-friendliness Index (BFI). This is a biodiversity indicator, originally developed by the National Audubon Society and adapted to the Canadian Prairies by Birds Canada, that clearly measures and communicates the contributions farms and ranches make to bird conservation. This pilot program will combine long-term conservation agreements with the BFI to reward ranchers in Saskatchewan for conserving grassland birds and their habitats.

Grassland Birds: A Conservation Crisis

The grasslands of the Ca-

nadian Prairies are among the most endangered ecosystems on the planet and have faced massive losses due to the conversion of grasslands to croplands and urban areas.

The recently published State of Canada’s Birds found that grassland birds that rely on these unique habitats, have experienced a devastating 67% population decline in Canada since 1970. Without immediate action some of these grassland species will disappear from Canada.

Pilot Program: A Conservation Model for the Future Birds Canada and SSGF will implement the pilot program with ranches and community pastures, by establishing 15-year Habitat Management Agreements designed to improve habitat conditions for grassland birds, or Restoration Agreements to restore cropland to native grass. When ranchers and community pastures sign these agreements with SSGF, they are then eligible to participate in the BFI Incentive Pilot Program, which will offer ranchers incentive payments based on their BFI scores, rewarding positive outcomes for grassland birds.

Additionally, this project will expand the Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions (IMBCR) program, on the Canadian Prairies, which will strengthen hemispheric collaboration on grassland bird conservation. The BFI Incentive Pilot Program will integrate biodiversity recovery into working landscapes and lay the groundwork for enabling an agricultural system that rewards farmers and ranchers for their positive contributions to bird conservation.

Left to Right.Trudy Janssens, Shirley Adamus,Tracy Esquirol, Jodi Gabruck, Arlene Walker and Michelle Rokosh pitched in on Wednesday and Thursday to apply 14 gallons of paint on the new walls of the ‘Do Drop In’. Co-op Paint made a generous contribution to the project. Arlene and Jodi continue to step up to see this project to completion.

BUSINESSES

LOCAL MATTERS.

The role local businesses play in thriving local communities cannot be overstated. Vibrant downtown areas that feature independently owned shopping, dining and entertainment options help distinguish communities from surrounding towns and generate tax revenue that is ultimately funneled back into the community.

that is

a case of Girl Guide Cookies to support your daughter?

Many local business owners are active members in their communities, which made it even more heartbreaking to see so many locally owned establishments that struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even as the world emerged from the pandemic, more than half of our local business owners reported that their struggles continue.

Many local business owners are active community members. While the initial crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, numerous local establishments are still feeling the after effects, including labor shortages, supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer habits. Recent surveys suggest that more than half of our business owners continue to face these hurdles.

Remember when provided free pizza to your son or daughter’s soccer team when they won the championship?

Local Businesses and their owners are the heart of our town. They live here. They play here. They invest here. They need our support, now more than ever. Whenever Possible – Shop The Battlefords! Neither do we!

As a consumer, have you wondered how your choices affect the local economy? Here are a few things that can happen when a small or medium-sized business in your neighbourhood doubles its sales due to strong local support.

• Uplift other local businesses. Small businesses often look to local suppliers to support their growth and help each other prosper.

• Increase social involvement. Local businesses are active in charitable causes. For example, thriving small businesses often give back to their communities by donating to local organizations.

Shopping at our local businesses keeps those establishments afloat, and it keeps their employees afloat. In Canada, 68.8% of the total labour force works for a small business. A person may never know when he or she – or a relative – will need a job. Keeping small business viable provides a strong market for our community. Support our local businesses. When you buy from a local store and deal with a local provider, all of the money stays in the Battlefords and district, helping to keep the local flavour alive.

Shopping at our local businesses keeps those establishments afloat, and it keeps their employees working. In Canada, 68.8% of the total labour force works for a small business. A person may never know when he or she – or a relative – will need a job. Keeping small businesses viable provides a strong market for our community.

• Expand services. The more money a small business makes, the more likely it’ll expand its product and service offerings and delve into new markets. For instance, your favourite local brand may set its sights on opening a new location in a nearby town.

These are the people that support your local teams, donate to your special event and support our non-profits.

Support our local businesses. When you buy from a local store and deal with a local provider, all of the money stays in the Battlefords and district, helping to keep the local flavour alive. These are the people that support your local teams, donate to your special event and support our non-profits.

the viability of our community.

• Improve the job market. When small businesses grow, they require more employees. A prospering local business can help create jobs in your area.

• Reap tax benefits. Small businesses that make more money also pay more taxes. This means that more money is going back into your local government to help with infrastructure and social initiatives.

Buying local is an easy way to invest in your community. It’s a simple move that benefits you as well.

BATTLEFORD’S BUSINESSES

3 misconceptions about buying local

Purchasing goods from local businesses contributes to the economy. It also showcases the creativity of local entrepreneurs and promotes environmental sustainability. However, certain misconceptions about buying local persist. Some believe it’s too expensive, limited to seasonal availability or exclusive to certain types of people. Do you share any of these opinions? Find out the truth for yourself!

1. It costs too much

Buying local is often associated with high prices. Granted, production standards and wages for local workers can increase the cost of certain types of goods. However, plenty of affordable options are still available. Many shops focus on products from their region or province. You can buy local products without breaking the bank by spotting weekly discounts.

2. It’s only seasonal

Many people believe local products are limited to food items available only in certain seasons. Sure, summer brings an abundance of fresh, local fruits and vegetables, but many local artisans offer clothing, jewelry and even musical instruments yearround.

3. It’s only for “granolas” Environmentalists, sometimes mockingly dubbed

“crunchy” or “granola,” were among the first to advocate for buying local. In the 2010s, this consumption model became widely adopted. About 40 per cent of consumers buy local because they believe local products are more sustainable and better for the environment. It makes sense! Local products travel much shorter distances than their foreign equivalents, inevitably reducing their carbon footprint.

Purchasing local products isn’t the answer to every problem. Furthermore, experts have been slow to reach a consensus on a single definition of the term. Some define it as a product assembled in one region from components or ingredients produced elsewhere on the planet, while others may not.

Some retailers take advantage of consumer appreciation for locally produced goods to double down on their marketing efforts, which can cause confusion for shoppers. However, buying locally helps breathe life into your community and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a choice that benefits everyone!

Do you want to encourage this type of consumption? Look for initiatives from your local merchants, artisans and producers.