Regional News-Optimist April 13, 2023

Sask. Firearms Act passes legislature

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

On the final sitting day before the Easter break, the Saskatchewan Firearms Act passed final reading at the legislature last week and is now law.

The Act passed third reading unanimously 45-0 with all members present voting in favor.

This is the provincial legislation aimed at putting some checks and balances in ahead of the federal government’s firearm buyback program, which is aimed at buying back “assault-style” rifles and removing them from the market.

The concern from firearms owners in Saskatchewan is that the federal buyback is too broad, and that their own hunting and shooting rifles may be targeted and confiscated. The provincial legislation passed Thursday puts in a number of requirements that will need to be followed.

Under the provincial Act passed on Thursday, it will see Saskatchewan bring in licensing requirements for seizure agents (ie. police, RCMP) involved in firearms expropriation; to require and oversee fair compensation for any firearms being seized; and to require for-

ensic and ballistic testing of seized firearms.

The Act will also establish a provincial firearms regulatory system that will promote the safe and responsible use of firearms. The legislation will primarily by administered by the Saskatchewan Firearms Office, which will see an expanded role prosecuting non-violent provincial firearms offenses.

There were amendments brought forward and approved in committee following second reading. According to Minister Tell, the amendment specifically had to do with seizure agents, where “police acting on behalf of another agent, or the federal government in order to confiscate firearms, will have to receive a license. They have to be licensed as well.”

“That is not to say that police in the normal course of their duties functioning as part of a police service, that they can’t confiscate or receive a firearm in the course of their normal duties. What we are saying, is very specific and proscriptive that if they are confiscating a firearm, and they’re acting on behalf of the agent or acting on behalf of the federal government confiscating the firearm, that they must

get licensed.”

There is also a requirement that if municipal police forces want to take part in the federal buyback program they need approval from the provincial Minister.

“Again, that is not their function. Police are there to perform a number of functions in their communities. This would be on the request on the behalf of the agent of the federal government to expropriate firearms from lawful firearms orders. So we are saying that permission from the minister must be obtained.”

When Tell was asked whether the provincial minister would grant that permission: “I guess it would depend on the circumstances, but not likely.”

When asked to expand on that, Tell said “if they are performing that specific function to expropriate firearms from lawful firearms owners at the request or behest of the federal government or another agent, I probably will not grant that permission… Every circumstance is different.”

As for the firearms the province is seeking to prevent the federal government from seizing, Chief Firearms Officer

Continued on Page 5

Council meeting pre-empts Blades-Pats game on TV

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

Hockey fans in most of the Access Now TV area were glued to their sets to watch their live coverage of Game Seven of the WHL series between the Regina Pats and Saskatoon Blades Monday. It was a highly anticipated matchup and the talk of the province, with the favoured Blades trying

to end the season of Pats phenom Connor Bedard in front of almost 15,000 fans at SaskTel Centre.

But one notable viewing area missed out on the dramatic game — the Battlefords.

Blame North Battleford City Hall.

Instead of Pats-Blades, it was pre-empted on Access Now TV so local viewers could receive regular Monday coverage of

the North Battleford city council meeting from Don Ross Centre.

Access Now TV broke the bad news to Battlefords hockey fans on their Twitter feed Monday: “Due to North Battleford City Council the towns of North Battleford, Battleford, Hafford, & Cochin will not be airing Regina Pats vs Saskatoon Blades Game 7.

Continued on Page 5

Was

CRT teams already proven their value: Province

SASKTODAY.ca

Expansions to Saskatchewan’s Crime Reduction Teams [CRT] and Warrant Enforcement Suppression Teams [WEST] will build upon the ongoing successes of the past year.

In just the first two months of 2023, WEST and CRT have removed a total of 67 guns, 142 grams of meth, 2,019 grams of cocaine, and three grams of fentanyl from Saskatchewan communities. Additionally, the Saskatchewan

Trafficking Response Team [STRT] seized 38 guns, 21.4 grams of meth, 36 grams of cocaine, and 42 grams of fentanyl while also making 20 human trafficking interventions and laying 20 criminal charges.

According to the DEA, just 42 grams of fentanyl is enough to kill 21,000 people.

“The $3.2 million government is committing annually to expand CRT and WEST represents an investment in the safety

of Saskatchewan communities,” said Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Christine Tell.

“We’ve recently witnessed what just one of these teams can accomplish. Earlier this month the municipal Prince Albert CRT made the biggest drug seizure in that city’s history, removing over 31,200 grams of cocaine from the community as well as guns, ammunition, and the proceeds of crime.”

As announced in the

More charges dropped against Brent Habetler in Lloydminster court

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

Two more charges have been dropped against Sir Brent Adair Habetler who is accused of committing an indecent act at the Lloydminster swimming pool last month.

Charges of failing to comply with a release order and possession of property under $5,000 have also been withdrawn by the Crown.

Court records show that on March 14 Habetler was charged with failing to comply with conditions by being at a children’s day home and possession of a

T-shirt that belonged to someone else.

On March 13 Sir Brent Adair Habetler was charged with mischief for willfully obstructing, interrupting or interfering with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of the community swimming pool. The mischief charge was withdrawn by the Crown in the Lloydminster Alberta Court of Justice on April 4.

The charge of committing an indecent act in a public place in the presence of one or more persons with intent to insult or offend a person wasn’t withdrawn and Habetler is back in court on that charge May 2. The accusation against him hasn’t been tested in court.

November 2022 Throne Speech, the Government of Saskatchewan will invest $1.6 million in the 2023-24 Budget to establish an additional WEST stationed in Prince Albert. This represents an expansion from one team, currently operating out of Meadow Lake and Saskatoon, to two, which will further enable WEST to respond and deploy province wide. The province is also investing an additional $1.6 million in the 202324 budget to establish a new CRT in the Battlefords region, bringing the total number of CRTs operating in the province from nine to 10. There are currently already three municipal CRTs [Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon] and six RCMP CRTs [La Ronge, Prince Albert, Meadow Lake, Moose Jaw, North Battleford and Lloy-

dminster].

“These teams have already proven their value in a very short timeframe,” said Tell. “Whether it’s apprehending violent offenders or removing drugs and guns from our communities, these teams make our province a safer place to live for everyone—and that’s something this government will continue to invest in.”

WEST was launched in April 2022 with a mandate to target high-profile offenders who are a significant threat to public safety, such as gang members and violent offenders with outstanding warrants. In January and February of 2023 alone, WEST has made 13 arrests, had 11 criminal charges laid, and seized $10,000 in cash and property. The new team is expected to be operational in late 2023-24 and will

consist of eight RCMP officers, one analyst and one administrative support position.

The CRT’s mandate is to target street gangs and prolific offenders and to respond to urban and rural crime surges as needed. The new unit will consist of eight RCMP officers, one analyst and one administrative support position and is expected to be operational in late 202324. In addition to the recent seizures in Prince Albert mentioned above, through January and February of this year CRTs have made 88 arrests, laid 256 criminal charges, and seized over $158,000 in cash and property.

STRT is a specialized intelligence-led enforcement team mandated to investigate drug, weapon and human trafficking.

86-year-old man stranded in field at night rescued by police

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

Warman RCMP and Saskatoon Police Service Air Support Unit worked together to rescue an elderly man who left his vehicle after getting stuck in the snow in Borden. He was found in the dark in the middle of a field about 2.5 kilometres from his vehicle.

Warman RCMP say that at about 6:30 p.m. on April 1, they got a call about a vulnerable person possibly needing help. The 86-yearold senior got his vehicle stuck in the snow in Borden and a witness saw him walk away from the vehicle without wearing proper

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A 16-year-old youth was arrested after police found him in possession of prohibited sawed-off rifle on Wednesday of last week.

According to Battlefords RCMP, members of the North Battleford Gang Task Force were on a proactive patrol when they

winter clothing or boots. When he didn’t return right away, the witness became concerned for his safety and called police.

Warman RCMP had immediately started searching for the senior, and recognizing that it would soon get dark and colder, requested the assistance of Saskatoon Police Service Air Support Unit. Saskatoon Police Service’s plane spotted the man two hours after he was first reported missing, approximately 2.5 kilometres from his vehicle. He had walked through snowy terrain, including fields.

Officers located the senior, who was cold but not injured, and they reunited

him with his family.

“We knew time was of the essence and aerial searches are an invaluable tool that allow us to search a large area in a short amount of time,” said S/ Sgt. Jason Teniuk from the Warman RCMP. “We were able to locate this male and return him to warmth and safety quite quickly.

“We’re thankful our partners at Saskatoon Police Service were able to join our search for this male,” added Teniuk. “When Saskatchewan’s police services work together to share resources and knowledge during investigations, public safety is enhanced.”

located a youth breaching multiple conditions. He is now charged with possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm contrary to an order, careless use of a firearm, possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number, and failing to comply with release

conditions.

The North Battleford Gang Task Force are actively involved in a local crime reduction initiative with the Battlefords Crime Reduction Team, Traffic Services, and other support units. This initiative involves direct and proactive enforcement in an effort to combat the most serious crime in the area.

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Bittersweet says Campbell

FFUN acquires Scott Campbell Dodge in North Battleford

Retroactive RCMP costs still a concern for North Battleford

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

Fallout continues from last year’s collective agreement between the federal government and the RCMP.

One of the big issues to emerge from that collective agreement was retroactive pay, with the municipalities having to foot the bill for all retroactive costs of the local RCMP.

The collective agreement has raised alarm bells among municipalities, who face a hit amounting to millions of dollars for some jurisdictions. In North Battleford, it amounts to over $1 million or an equivalent of a 6.45 per cent tax increase to residents, according to the city’s news release.

At their meeting Monday, North Battleford council heard that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities put out a call to municipalities to respond to the Government of Canada’s collective agreement with the RCMP.

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The FFUN Group has recently announced its acquisition of Scott Campbell Dodge in North Battleford. FFUN Group says it’s a part of their ongoing plans for growth and that Scott Campbell Dodge will begin operating under its new name, FFUN Dodge North Battleford, as of April 5.

“Whether it’s a big or small town, we at the FFUN Group want to be part of a community and provide incredible service, products, and a carbuying experience that is memorable and in line with what we do at all our dealerships,” says President and CEO, Mark Loeppky.

Customers can anticipate a seamless transition where Scott Campbell Dodge customers will continue to receive the same level of service they are accustomed to while having access to the other divisions and expertise of the FFUN Group.

Scott Cambell Dodge joins over 30 FFUN locations in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario, and was chosen for its successful ties to other rural locations, and loyal customer base.

As a part of the acquisition, Neil Georget will be continuing in the industry as the new general manager and dealer partner, having recently led Country Ford in Wilkie.

“Being part of the FFUN Group has been

an incredible experience, both personally and professionally. I look forward to continuing to work with the team here and staying involved in growing this incredible community,” says Georget.

“It’s bittersweet,” said Scott Campbell, noting that his work in the Battlefords has been a joy, but is happy to have such an incredible, reputable brand like FFUN to continue the mission of this dealership.

“I am excited for its future and have every confidence that the customers will continue to experience that same level of passion for cars, community and customer service,” said Scott Campbell.

One resolution passed by council Monday called for the City of North Battleford to join the FCM in calling on the federal government to commit to ensuring that local governments are meaningfully consulted, fully informed, and at the table on all matters related to policing costs.

Council also voted in favour of a resolution calling on FCM to appeal to the federal government on behalf of all municipalities in respect to RCMP retroactive pay. That carried.

A third resolution also called for the city to convey their thoughts in a letter to the Minister of Public Safety Canada. That also carried.

The topic of RCMP costs and similar resolutions also came up on the same night over at the Town of Battleford’s council meeting.

Later in the North Battleford meeting, Councillor Kelli Hawtin asked about how the City of North

Battleford planned to absorb the cost. According to a letter received by the city from Public Safety Canada, the federal government has agreed to extend the time of repayment up to two years. Cities must apply for the extended payment terms which do not extend beyond March 31, 2025.

City Manager Randy Patrick made clear to council their position is they should not have to pay it and there should be support from the federal government, but if they do end up paying it they will do it quarterly in the next two years.

As for where the money will come from to pay for the increase, Mayor David Gillan and city officials noted it has already been factored into the city’s budgets and previous tax increases.

It was pointed out that the city had anticipated and prepared for the additional RCMP retroactive costs as a worst-case scenario. Councillor Len Taylor noted there was an impact seen in other areas, pointing out they had not been able to spend more money on other projects they wanted such as road or sidewalk construction.

“To a certain extent the taxpayer has lost the value of their contributions the last two years, because it’s going to the RCMP,” said Taylor. He said it was a “significant draw on the operations of the city over the last couple of years.”

In a news release issued by the City of North Bat-

tleford the following day, they noted the RCMP’s union, the National Police Federation, had ratified its first-ever contract with the federal government in 2021 and that it featured significant pay increases dating back to 2017.

It was noted the City of North Battleford and other communities belonging to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities had lobbied the federal government to absorb the retroactive costs. But the Feds’ 2023 Budget on March 27, did not include that support for municipalities.

“Local governments were not at the table for these negotiations,” stated FCM in a release. “While [bargaining agreement] cost estimates were provided to some municipalities, these initial estimates turned out to be far lower than the [eventually-] approved [wage] increases spread out over six years [2017-2023]. The cost to North Battleford associated with these retroactive payments is expected to be slightly more than $1 million.”

“Like many other Canadian municipalities, the city was disappointed to learn that the federal government will not be covering these costs,” said Mayor Gillan in a statement. “At a time when many people are experiencing post-pandemic and inflationary financial struggles, it is unfair to have residents contributing to an additional $1 million cost that was agreed to by the federal government and not by the City of North Battleford.”

FFUN acquires Scott Campbell Dodge in North Battleford. | Photo by Averil Hall

North Battleford council spoke on RCMP costs at their meeting April 10. | Zoom screenshot courtesy City of North Battleford

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Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

Urban think tank clueless about food production

Dear Editor

(Editor’s note: The author indicates this piece was written several years ago, but she maintains it still has relevance)

I am a member of the farming community. For some time I have thought I belong to an endangered species. According to Larry Solomon, however, I belong to a group which is a burden upon Canada, a glut, something to be reduced or eliminated.

In the Bible, Solomon was known as a wise man. This Solomon, however, belongs to something he calls Urban Renaissance, a think tank based in Toronto. If this is an example of a Canadian “think tank” then one could easily believe that our best brains have left Canada and what’s left is in think tanks. Heaven help us.

His remarks on Dec. 9 on the CBC morning program with Michael Enwright left me open-mounted, as it did others.

He told Noreen Johns of the Saskatchewan Women’s Agricultural Network that she was profoundly confused.” May I then be permitted to turn to call Larry Solomon “profoundly ignorant?”

The following is what an independent one-woman Rural Renaissance think tank can do to his ideas.

He went on to say farmers are heavily supported by urban people, that farming is a “make-work project” and that not all farming jobs are “real jobs.”

Perhaps I can give my opinion that a “think tank” is not a real job. What does it produce? Could it be called a make-work project?

All the grains and livestock produced on farms create thousands of jobs, with byproducts benefiting people all over Canada.

I suppose he considers the making of beer, shoes, soaps, upholstery, medicines and cement, for example, to be real jobs. These are but a few of the many things made from what is produced on a Canadian farm.

Larry Solomon told us there are too many farmers to be supported by the land. He claims much of the land should never have been used for agriculture but should revert to wilderness. Now there is a point upon which we agree but I must point out that government. usually a Liberal government, urges people to break up land and drain wetlands, giving them grants to do so.

The vast land can support many farmers, yet Solomon tells us farmers in Third World countries could supply us with our food. I cannot believe anyone could be so stupid as to advocate that a country should not be as self-sufficient as possible in food.

Correction

The phone number in a letter from Keltie Paul in last week’s edition was incorrect. It should read 306-445-5195. It is the office number for the Battlefords MLA Jeremy Cockrill.

Regional

As for Third World farmers, they could not begin to meet the demands or the high standards we take for granted in the production and preparation of our food.

Also note there are many people in those countries trying to eke out a living from the soil but apparently, he doesn’t think there are too many of them nor does he seem to acknowledge they are destroying much of their wildness; rain forests for example.

He probably never knew that some Canadian farmers spend their winters in poor countries helping them improve their food production.

Yet Solomon states we are preventing Third World people from farming. Then says there is too much food in the world.

Too much food? Tell that to the many hungry people in the world, including on the streets of Toronto where he lives. Drought floods, pests and diseases of plants can soon get rid of a surplus of food, as can wars.

Next, he tells us our farms are polluted with chemicals. I suggest he and his think tank inquire into the agricultural chemical companies. They could also think about the oil companies, which in many areas pollute farms and farmers with dust and noxious fumes.

The final straw was when he told all rural people to move to the cities for a better environment, cities with smog and a steady infusion of exhaust fumes and daily crime

He tells us we could get better jobs and more safety in the city, that on the farm we are too far from hospitals and farm children have too many accidents.

“Better jobs” often depend upon how one looks at things. Executive directors of think tanks probably think they have better jobs, yet they couldn’t function without the “lowly” people who make sure that sewers work, repair the streets, remove the garbage and produce food.

More safety? Surely you jest! How many women dare walk down city streets alone at night for that matter, how many men?

And huge cities have on their street many homeless

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Nous reconnaissons l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

people, many of whom are children. Is that a better life?

As for being close to hospitals in case of an emergency, some cities are so congested the ambulances cannot get down the streets. I haven’t just read about it, I’ve seen it.

Mr. Solomon should study history. Any civilization which has allowed the farming people to be destroyed has itself gone down.

It was mentioned somewhere that since Toronto has become a mega-city it could become a province on its own. Ah yes, Toronto produces no food. A manmade natural disaster preventing food from entering Toronto could soon bring it to its knees.

And, to rub it in, I believe there is a pipeline or lines sending oil and gas from Western to Eastern Canada. I wonder where the main “off” switch can be found.

Still on the subject of Toronto and other giant cities, how much wilderness do they destroy as they spawl ever onward like cancer, accompanied by the ever-widening highways?

Recently, I heard a CBC radio commentator say that a panel discussion would be hosted called “Can we afford the family farm?”

Did I hear him correctly? Afford us? What have we been all this time, anyway, a pet or a hobby?

If we are to be driven off the land, tossed aside, that means corporate farms owned by what? Giant U.S. grain companies? Giant agricultural chemical companies? Perhaps even another country, after all, Canadians are experts at selling off Canada, bit by bit. Why not sell off our food production, too?

The thought process of Larry Solomon could be laughable if they were not so scary. One wonders if he is real, but the scary part is there are probably more like him swimming around in that think tank.

How dare he tell us how to live? Who pays the wages of this think tank?

Christine Pike Waseca

Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher Administration

Kylie Cooke DTI/Receptionist

Editorial

Jayne Foster Editor SASKTODAY.ca

Lisa Joy Reporter • Miguel Fenrich Reporter

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The Sussexes

The By R.H. Wood North Battleford

In a previous article I ventured that Prince Harry could have been offered the position of Governor General of Canada. How appropriate this would have been for him as the son of our new king. Harry and Meghan are of course the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and since Mr. Trudeau deigns to reside in the current ministerial mansion, 24 Sussex Drive, Harry and Meghan could have been in residence there, using

WoodPile

the skills and knowledge of refurbishment acquired when Frogmore Cottage

was brought up to their exacting standards at a cost of two million pounds.

Sussex Drive, in the area known as New Edinburgh in Ottawa, was named after Prince Frederick, son of King George 111, a noted abolitionist. The 35-room private home was completed in 1868 and was called in unpronounceable Welsh “Gorffwysfa”, meaning “a place of rest”. It has been modified and improved over the years at a cost for example of: $500,000 –yes, half a million in 1950. The swimming pool paid for by public subscription for the benefit of Pierre Trudeau cost $175,000. The dwelling became the

official home of prime ministers in 1951 but has been allowed to deteriorate, apparently much to the amusement of Jean Chretien. It now stands empty, semi-derelict, eating its head off cost wise metaphorically while being eaten alive literally by rodents and mold. I view the unnecessary deterioration of 24 Sussex Drive and the shameful disruption in the royal family in the same light. Any return to royal life and a respected position in this country and the world has been rendered out of the question as Harry and Meghan have turned their backs on dignity, service to the Commonwealth and

the lands of their origin for the superficiality and notoriety of tinsel town living, preferring material gain, ephemeral praise and fame.

How grateful we should all be to Steven Guilbeault, our environment minister, who has again explained to us all and Yves Giroux, the Parliamentary Budget Officer, the inestimable importance to our economy and the world of the inappropriately called carbon tax. This will be remembered for all time as the “Trudeau tax” but personally I think “pollution levy” would have been better as this would cover everything from industry to back alleyways

and would have been less contentious.

As the tax is so valuable it should be expanded, increased, doubled or tripled thus flooding Chrystia’s coffers. The CRA demands would be met and their numbers increased to streamline the mailing out of rebates. The national debt would simply evaporate and there would be no deficits.

The nation would be so grateful to Mr. Trudeau that a totally refurbished 24, Sussex Drive - ($35 million) would be gifted to him and his lineage as their new ancestral home and centre for the currently beleaguered Trudeau Foundation.

Letter: Greatest fear is urbanization of thought

Dear Editor

The findings of the committee formed to look into murders a few years ago in Nova Scotia damned the police in the area at the time. Among the suggestions made to improve police training was to close the training centre in Regina.

Oh, great, I thought, yet one more thing taken from Saskatchewan.

The next thing was the suggestion to “get rid” of the RCMP.

I’m sure that did nothing for the morale of the thousands of police who steadfastly do their duty and, at times, pay for it with their lives.

“Getting rid” of things, whatever “things,” is almost a political and non-political pastime in Canada. Throw the baby

out with the bath water, to destroy some rotten apples, dump the whole barrel: is that the answer? Just improve the model.

At that same time, going through many boxes of paper (a winter project) I came across an unsealed, unaddressed envelope containing an undated letter. I recalled writing it at a time when the country was inundated with think

Sask. Firearms Act

Continued from Front Robert Freberg explained to reporters the federal government was using the term “assault-style firearms” as a catchall.

“I just want people to understand that the term ‘assault-style firearms’ is being used, frankly in my opinion as an expert, it is a bit of sensationalism. A lot of those firearms certainly never had any military origin.”

Freberg said as someone in the industry for 50 years, “I look at some of these firearms. I have no idea how they got on the list. Again, that’s one of the reasons why we’re bringing this legislation forward, and we’re studying it and we’re also building on the ballistics labs to get forensic experts and so forth to come in and do some really good analy-

sis on these firearms, because I’m not certain how this came up. They were listed as non-restricted when they were first being allowed to be sold to Canadians, and then all of a sudden we had an incident that was caused from smuggled firearms and an illegal firearms owner that never had a license, and then overnight these guns changed from being unrestricted to prohibited. So how they jumped three categories in a few hours the guns didn’t change, so obviously the interpretation did.”

Both Tell and Freberg were joined at the legislature by several supporters of the legislation from various groups.

While the New Democrats joined the government MLAs in favor of the Act only five of their

MLAs were present for the final standing vote; seven others including Opposition Leader Carla Beck were not present.

Opposition critic Trent Wotherspoon made it clear to reporters his party was supportive of the Act.

“We stood in support of the Act, we stood united in this Assembly in the past as well against some of the overreach of the federal government. I think today with respect to the Act we stood in support of common sense measures to ensure some fairness for gun owners in Saskatchewan.”

The Sask. Firearms Act was one of several bills that Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty gave Royal Assent to on Thursday; among the others also receiving Royal Assent was the Sask. First Act.

‘Boooo North Battleford’

Continued from Front

If you are a NexTV subscriber you can watch the game on AccessNow TV Regina & Area (Channel 20). You can also watch on the AccessNow TV App if you are connected to an Access internet connection.”

For non-Access customers, subscribers to the regular WHL Live service online offered by the league were also able to view the game. Fans could sign up for a 24-hour allaccess pass which would have cost $6.99.

The reaction from local hockey fans was predictable on Twitter.

“Cancel the meeting!!!!!” was the reaction from Monday Nooner. Another posted “Boooo North Battleford City Council! The destroyer of fun.”

“North Battleford city

council not big Bedard guys,” was another reaction.

For those who didn’t tune in and are wondering about the final score, Saskatoon ended up beating Regina 4-1 in Game Seven to advance to take on the Red Deer Rebels.

tanks. We don’t hear of these useless groups much anymore. I think they’ve followed the dinosaur. There is, however, still the Fraser Institute.

Larry Solomon mentioned in the letter I found wanted to “get rid” of Canadian farmers. This was before climate change had been discovered and certain people began to blame that on cows. That man would have loved that and jumped on it to ride it. It would never have occurred to him to look in the mirror and see who is responsible for climate change.

Although the letter was written some years ago it is relevant today. Canada

has many Larry Solomons.

I do know I wrote the letter around the time I coined the phrase “The greatest fear now in the

world of agriculture is the urbanization of thought.” Christine Pike Waseca

23043BS0

Growth That Works For Everyone

Registration Opens For Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC)

This new and innovative approach to learning will ensure that all students have access to high-quality education. Kindergarten to Grade 12 students can now access online learning through the new provincial online school at www.saskdlc.ca. Sask DLC has over 180 online course options covering all core requirements for each grade, including many exciting high school electives. Learn at 306-252-1000 or helpdesk@saskDLC.ca.

306-445-5195

306-893-2619

Preparing for Mother’s Day and Christmas!

By Jean Dunn Battlefords Art Club

“The efforts of one person can’t move mountains. It’s the strength of us all working together that makes a change.” — graciousquotes.com

We have been busy! Last week we met as a group to make some ornaments to decorate our contribution to the Festival of Trees. Rosemarie Stadnyk showed us some techniques to the pours. What fun we had! Twelve of us

in total, including a few non-members. We even gained a new member!

This upcoming Tuesday we will be making fascinators for a Mother’s Day fundraiser for the Fred Light Museum.

We are having our Summer Sizzler Art Show and Sale on June 29 and 30 to show off some of our works at the Chapel Gallery.

Please join us on Tuesdays at the Don Ross Centre, Door 2!

“It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” —

Mother Theresa

306-747-3422

B’ford calls on Liberal government for more input for RCMP

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

A template resolution from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities was passed by the Town of Battleford at their Monday, April 10 meeting, calling for the prioritization of municipal input in future contract decisions with the RCMP.

This is in response to the Government of Canada’s decision in their 2023 budget to force municipalities to bear responsibility for retroactive costs stemming from the latest RCMP collective bargaining agreement.

The passing of the template resolution joins the

FCM and other municipalities in calling on the federal government to commit to ensuring local governments are meaningfully consulted, fully informed and at the table on issues related to policing costs, given the municipal role in keeping communities safe.

“Municipal governments are already paying a growing share of policing costs, but unlike other orders of government, cannot run deficits to spread out the impact of these extraordinary one-time sums and have limited revenue tools,” reads the resolution.

The town says the federal government’s decision may force municipalities into difficult decisions

that may impact residents, including the cutting of essential services, reducing policing levels, raising property taxes significantly, up to and including or cancelling work on local infrastructure.

“... it is critical that municipalities be proactively engaged in any forthcoming processes related to contract policing to prevent this from occurring again,” the resolution reads.

Councillor David George noted his concerns to the residents of Battleford.

“We don’t know what the costs are going to be yet to the community, so hold on.”

City of NB CSOs target impaired driving during March 31 blitz

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

On the evening of March 31, Community Safety Officers and Battlefords Citizens on Patrol volunteers conducted joint patrols targeting impaired driving to encourage and support safe driving practices.

Equipped with approved screening devices (ASDs), North Battleford CSOs conducted nine tests for drivers suspected of impaired driving within city limits on March 31. Of the nine tests conducted, two drivers were found to have blood alcohol content

readings that would not yield a ‘pass.’

One driver has been charged with impaired driving under the Criminal Code for having a blood alcohol content of .08 mg or higher. A second driver received a 60-day driver’s licence suspension with a blood alcohol content reading of between .04 and .08mg.

This range is considered a “warning” level, and for a first offence, it carries an immediate roadside licence suspension for both experienced drivers (3-day suspension) and new drivers (60-day suspension).

“Impaired driving is a serious issue everywhere, but particularly in Saskatchewan,” commented Lindsay Holm, director of protective services for the city.

“To have CSOs patrolling for such a short time and be able to detect that many drivers operating vehicles while impaired is alarming. I commend the officers for their efforts and thank Citizens on Patrol for their assistance as well.”

Impaired driving detection is one of several key areas of focus for the municipal force in 2023.

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier, MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook scottmoe.mla@sasktel.net

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill, MLA for The Battlefords office@jeremycockrill.ca

Ryan Domotor, MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford domotor.mla@sasktel.net

Here are some gorgeous ornaments made to be used at this year’s festival of trees. | Photos submitted

New traffic lights operational between Sobeys and Co-op mall

Photos from the last two meetings of the North Battleford Legion Track Club, showing the Kinsmen Indoor Games March 24 and 25 and the Aboriginal Games April 1 and 2. The games resulted in several medals for the club, with Tye and Mariska Kardynal wining first place in high jump at the Kinsmen Games, the provincials for U12 and U14. The track club has attended seven meets over the indoor season and will resume practice in October. | Photos submitted

New sander to cost $32,000

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

At its April 10 council meeting, Battleford town council approved the purchase of a slide-out V-box Sander, from Industrial Machine Inc. to replace their 10-year-old sander, a purchase that was anticipated and included in the town’s 2023 capital budget.

At the time of the 2023 budget, a price for budgeting purposes was acquired.

“It was later discovered that the quotes unit did not meet our needs. The quote

also did not include the leg set that allows us to load or unload the sander in a matter of minutes,” reads a report from Eric Bilanski, manager of the Public Works Department.

Now, while looking for a sander, the new quotation price is $14,838 over the budgeted amount of $18,000 that was approved in the 2023 capital budget, bringing the price to $30,980. PST brings the total to $32.838.80

Bilanski noted the cost of equipment is increasing substantially year to year, and that after a request for

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The City of North Battleford has informed motorists and the general public that the new traffic lights at the entrance point to Sobeys and the Discovery Co-op Mall on Territorial Drive became operational April 6. This development is part of the ongoing Territorial Drive expansion project that

commenced in September 2022.

The project, which includes lane layout changes, curbing, paving, and enhanced accessibility at the Territorial Drive and 100th Street/Highway four intersection, experienced delays due to contractor unavailability and supply chain issues related to the acquisition of new traffic light implements.

The remaining

component of traffic lane marking is expected to be completed by summer.

The Territorial Drive expansion project remains on budget as per the 2022 fiscal year, with 85 per cent of the funding, $680,000, being provided through a provincial government grant.

The remaining $120,000 is funded through the City of North Battleford’s capital reserves.

quotation was posted on Sask Tenders and receiving three bids, the evaluation was based on several criteria ranging on pricing, availability, specifications, service, parts availability and delivery time.

“If we need it we need it,” Councillor Judy Pruden said. “Things are costing more, and there’s not much we can do about it.”

Bilanski noted that they’re getting a deal as it’s last year’s stock, and afterwards, the price will increase by $5,000 for 2023 and another $5,000 for 2024.

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Celebrate the 1950s

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The Bromantics, a sixpiece band performing their tribute to the 1950s, is bringing their revival of an era to the Dekker Centre on April 21 at 7 p.m.

The popular Moose Jaw-based group formed in the summer of 2013,

have recorded live sessions through Blue Door Studios, and in collaboration with Nyshe Media, have released several videos that encompass exactly how they look and sound live.

The group of lead singer Tim Linchuk, Robert Haakenson, Kurt Gillett, Jim Mitchell,

Gregg Gower and drummer Justin Hauck, are now in the process of recording a debut EP. The contagious genre of music, combined with their high-energy performances, has proved successful in creating a nostalgic atmosphere that also promises to have everybody twisting the night away.

Construction of improved access to Territorial Drive from Sobeys and Discovery Co-op began in September 2022, and is slated to finish by summer 2023. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

Daffodil Campaign

April is Daffodil Month, a national fundraising campaign for cancer research and support services. As cancer remains the leading cause of death in the country, it’s an important initiative. Indeed, an estimated two in five Canadians will be diagnosed with some form of the disease in their lifetime.

Cancer, however, affects more than just your health. A diagnosis can bring up powerful emotions such as guilt, fear, loneliness and depression. These feelings are completely normal, though dealing with them can be difficult. Here are some strategies that may help.

1. EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS

It’s a good idea to talk about the impact of your cancer diagnosis with friends, family members, other survivors or a support group. Doing this can provide relief and comfort. If expressing your feelings openly is too difficult, try writing them down.

2. DON’T BLAME YOURSELF

It’s all too common for cancer patients to blame themselves for their diagnosis. The fact is, scientists

can’t explain why some people get cancer and others don’t. Cancer can affect anyone.

3. BE GENUINE

Some people feel they need to remain positive and upbeat for their loved ones while undergoing treatment. Remember, it’s all right to give in to your feelings and have a bad day.

4. RELAX AND DO THINGS YOU ENJOY

Engage in your favourite hobbies and creative outlets. In addition, meditation and spending time in nature can help you relax.

5. TAKE CONTROL

Setting a daily schedule, keeping appointments and being actively involved in your treatment can help you feel in control and may alleviate some of your worries and fears.

In addition, it can be beneficial to get support from a professional. If you’re struggling with a cancer diagnosis, reach out to a counsellor or psychologist in your area.

How to conduct a breast self-exam (BSE)

A breast self-exam (BSE) is a screening method that involves women observing and touching their own breasts to detect any signs of change. It doesn’t replace a professional examination but can help with early cancer detection. Here’s how to do a BSE.

WHEN

It’s best to do a BSE immediately following your period because your breasts are the most supple at this time. It’s normal to have small bumps or tenderness when examining your breasts before your period. However, make sure to note any persistent or recent changes.

HOW

Start by visually examining your breasts in front of a mirror. Observe yourself in

several positions, like with your arms at your side and raised above your head. Make sure you can see your breasts from all angles. Then, use your fingers to gently feel every inch of your breasts.

WHAT

Pay particular attention to changes in the size or shape of your breasts and the appearance of visible or palpable lumps. Take note if your skin has thickened, changed colour or is red and inflamed. Also, look to see if your nipple has changed in appearance or is deviating and if you notice spontaneous discharge or persistent eczema.

If you notice any of these changes or find something else that seems unusual, immediately report it to your doctor.

What you need to know about mammograms

Breast cancer is more common in older women. Therefore, once you turn 50, you should get a mammogram every two years. If you’re approaching this age, here’s more information about this screening exam.

WHAT’S A MAMMOGRAM?

Simply put, a mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. It provides detailed images from different angles to detect cancer. The procedure usually takes less than a minute and involves placing both breasts between two plastic plates. Clear images can be taken with minimal X-ray exposure when the breasts are flattened.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Although mammograms can be slightly painful because the breasts are being com-

pressed, it decreases the mortality rate of breast cancer by detecting it early. Although not infallible, mammograms remain the most reliable method of determining if someone has breast cancer.

HOW TO PREPARE

Avoid applying lotion or other products to your skin. Wear a shirt that’s easy to remove and don’t wear any jewelry. You can reduce discomfort by scheduling your mammogram for after your period. Reducing your consumption of caffeinated foods or drinks the week before your appointment may also help. Ask your doctor if you can take painkillers.

For more information, visit cancer.ca.

Top 3 car care apps

Do you want to simplify the way you care for your car? Here are three applications that can help.

1. DRIVVO

Use this app to record vehicle expenses, including service costs and gas purchases. Drivvo organizes all inputted data into user-friendly lists, charts and graphs. Having this information at your fingertips allows you to stay on top of car care tasks and know the precise costs associated with maintaining your vehicle.

2. CARFAX CAR CARE

This app allows you to access the maintenance schedule for your car’s make and model and lets you track your auto repair history. In addition, it tells you about any safety recalls for your vehicle and can even remind you when your registration needs to be renewed.

3. FUELLY

With Fuelly, you can track your car’s mileage and receive detailed fuel consumption data. This allows you to monitor vehicle performance and take proactive steps at the first sign of faltering fuel efficiency.

These are just some of the many apps that make car care easier. All of them are available for both iOS and Android devices.

How to sanitize your car cabin

If you share your car, drive for Uber or give rides to friends and family members, sanitizing your vehicle is a must. Here’s a brief guide to eliminating viruses from your car’s interior.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS

When cleaning your vehicle, make sure to wear protective gloves and a mask to guard against virus transmission.

BE THOROUGH

Make sure to clean all

“Know

high-touch surfaces. This includes the steering wheel, turn signal lever, seatbelts, cupholders, sun visors, door handles (inner and outer), armrests, radio and centre console. If the weather permits, it’s also a good idea to open your windows to air out the cabin.

USE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

Use a disinfectant with at least 70 per cent alcohol to sanitize the hard surfaces in your vehicle. This

includes the dashboard, glove compartment and stereo.

For fabric and leather seats and features, opt for a gentle cleaning solution of dish soap and water. Scrub the fabric or leather well with a microfibre cloth. However, be careful not to soak fabric seats, as this can encourage mould growth in the cushions.

Taking these steps will help ensure that your car is safe to ride in for you and your passengers.

Tips for stocking your car’s emergency kit for spring

You know about the importance of preparing a winter emergency kit for your car, but what about a spring kit? Hot weather can be hard on your vehicle, resulting in unexpected breakdowns. Here’s how to stock your emergency kit to prepare for warmer weather.

• Visibility equipment like road flares or reflective hazard triangles

• Water bottles to stay hydrated in the heat

• Blanket to shade you from the hot sun

• Extra pair of clothing and shoes, including rain gear

• Flashlight or headlamp

• First aid kit, including ointment, gauze, bandages, adhesive tape and tweezers

• Disinfectant wipes

• Sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50

• Booster pack or jumper cables

• Work gloves

• Paper maps

• Insect repellant

• Basic tool kit

• Phone charger or extra battery pack

• Toilet paper

• Snacks that won’t melt, such as granola, dried fruit and nuts

Visit local stores to pick up everything you need to stock your spring emergency kit.

4 signs you should get your brakes checked

When it comes to vehicle safety, your car’s braking system plays a crucial role. Here are four signs that you need to get your brakes professionally serviced.

1. UNUSUAL NOISES

Brake pads have built-in wear indicators that produce a high-pitched squeal when the pads wear down. As soon as you hear this sound — you can’t mistake it! — you need to get your brake pads replaced.

2. VIBRATIONS

It’s normal for your brake system and other car components to pulse and vibrate when you slam on the brakes. However, if your brakes vibrate when applied normally, this is a major red flag. In most cases, brake shudder is caused by an unevenly worn brake rotor.

3. PULLING

If your car pulls to the left or right, it’s likely due to uneven tire pressure, incorrect wheel alignment or a problem

with the brake system. If it’s the brakes, you may have a stuck caliper, collapsed brake hose or uneven brake pads.

4. SPONGY PEDAL

If your pedal feels mushy or you have to apply extra pressure when braking, this is usually an indication that the brake fluid isn’t flowing properly Replacing the brake fluid typically corrects this issue.

Finally, note that experts recommend car owners get their brakes checked every six months.

DOIG: Betty Ann Maridee (Uhrich), most recently of Battleford, Sask., died at Battlefords Union Hospital April 5, 2023 with her grandsons by her side. Betty Ann was born Oct. 17, 1938, in Regina to Harry and May Uhrich. Harry was a CN station agent, so Betty Ann moved from place to place with her parents throughout her childhood. One posting was in Loverna, where she met William Robert Paul (Bob) Doig and they were married in October 1955. They lived for a time in Kindersley then moved to Chamberlain in 1958 where they operated the Sonny Boy Esso service station at the junction of Highways 2 and 11 for more than 40 years. Their children, Bryan and Brenda, attended school in Chamberlain and Holdfast. Betty Ann was a homemaker and helped with the service station business for many years, but in the early 1980s she struck out on her own. She established King Kone in the lot beside the service station and her ice cream business became a must-stop mecca for many travelling on Highway 11 and for the locals who knew where to go for a well-deserved treat guaranteed to be satisfying. Her pride in her business was evident in her meticulous attention to product quality, generous servings, customer service and the highest standards of cleanliness. Betty Ann is predeceased by: husband Bob (December 2022); daughter Brenda; brother, James Allyn Uhrich and her parents. She is survived by: son Bryan (Rebecca), Battleford; granddaughter Kathryn (Luc) Blanchard, North Battleford; grandson Jordan (Kendel Lennard) Price, Saskatoon; grandson Cameron (Kari) Doig, Battleford; greatgrandchildren Alfred and Francis Blanchard, Jett and Winnifred Doig; a brother Kevin (Norma) Uhrich, Outlook; sister-in-law Helen Uhrich, Zelandia; sister-in-law Lori Doig, Regina; and numerous nieces and nephews. Betty Ann’s family wishes to express sincere thanks to Battlefords Home Care for their years of excellent care that allowed her to remain in her home as long as possible. They also thank the staff of Battlefords Union Hospital and her physician Dr. A. Dunhin and the medical team and others who helped with her many complex health problems, and the staff at Harwood Manor for their care during her brief time there. In Betty Ann’s memory, donations may be made to the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation.

NIKIFORUK: Joseph

Raymond Nikiforuk, known to all as Ray, was born October 13, 1924 in North Battleford to Andrew and Vasalenka Nikiforuk. He passed peacefully at the age of 98 in his home at Harwood Manor on March 28, 2023. Ray is survived by his wife, Olga, of 73 years who was his constant partner by his side. Ray and Olga had 3 childrenMyron (Tracy), Patty and Wesley (Donna). Ray cherished his grandchildren (Nicholas (Jessica), Janelle (Dallin), Danielle, Natasha (Wade), Tiffany (Kevin) and Colter (Jillyan) and great-grandchildren (Daniel, Charlie, Michael, Kaylee, Macie, Cooper and Parker). Ray was the eighth of nine children: Mary, Olga, David, Stephen, John, Gordon, Alice and is survived by his younger brother, Yaris (Stella). Ray grew up on a farm in the Redfield Dominion Area and continued to farm until he fully retired in 2008 and moved to town. He was very active in his community and was a member of CYMK (a Ukrainian Youth Organization), the National Farmers Union, the Wheat Pool, the Curling Club but most endearing to him was his church, faith and his heritage of which he was a long-standing member of the church - St Volodymyr’s Orthodox Church at Dominion, which his father helped build and still stands today. Ray, better known as Slim, had a mischievous smile, and you couldn’t walk into his home without that smile greeting you at the door, followed by being asked if you would like a drink. Ray always enjoyed company and would stop whatever he was doing to visit, have a drink, share a meal and laugh with anyone that came into their home. Ray’s family and friends gathered to celebrate his life on April 5, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Orthodox Church North Battleford, SK. Interment followed at the North Battleford City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the donor’s charity of choice in Raymond’s name. Someone once said, that a person passes twice. Once when they physically pass and once when their name is spoken for the last time. We ask that all of you keep Ray in your hearts and in your minds and speak often and well of him to help his memory stay alive forever. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium - Trevor Watts Funeral Director.

In Loving Memory of Martin Brown

Aug. 26, 1938 – April 15, 2022

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly 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.

At M&M sales and service we believe in real money and real value. As of April, 2023 many of the big banks are going to CBDC’s or Central Bank Digital Currencies. These are computer created centralized programmable currencies. It is our opinion that CBDC’s can be used to track your carbon usage. It is also our opinion they are traceable and controlled by the banks, government and large corporations We will not be moving with this trend. We do not consent either knowingly or unknowingly to CBDC’s in any form.

I thought of you today but that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and your pictures in a frame Your memory is a keepsake from which I’ll never part God has you in His arms I have you in my heart

Your loving wife Denise & family

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 51 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details. Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-6491405 to find out how!

WANTED: OLDER TACTOR, 130 HP, FWA, no front end loader, running or not. 306-937-2832, Battleford, SK.

If you choose to use these currencies that is completely up to you. We will of course be happy to work with anyone who wishes to continue purchasing from us after April 2023, but we will no longer accept e-transfers from the major banks or credit unions supporting these spy currencies. We will transact in real money using cash, cheques, postal money orders, bank drafts, silver bullion or certain other silver coins with known value, We may also entertain other value transfer systems of mutual benefit. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause as the world transitions at this time. We cannot proceed with a world of reduced freedom. We will continue to endorse common sense, mutually beneficial transac-

Liquor Permit Advertising Form

(Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997 )

Notice is hereby given that Magic Lantern Theaters Ltd. has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gamin Authority (SLGA) for a Special Use - Theatre Concert Theatre permit to sell alcohol in the premises known as Capitol Theatre at 1101 100 St. North Battleford SK S9A 4B1

~~ScoutsBottleDrive~~

The2ndNorthBattlefordScout Troopisfundraisingforourfirstinter -provincialcampingtrip-aweeklongScoutCampinOntarioin August2023!

Pleaseconsiderdonatingyour bottles/canstosupportour fundraisingefforts.Pleasecontact usanytime,aswe'dbehappyto freeupspaceinyourgarage, basementorbackyardbyarranging apickuptime.

Ifyou'dliketosupportby purchasingproduct,askusabout ScoutPopcorn,Scoutgarden seeds,ScoutCoffee,andCo-opGift cards!

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Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with SLGA not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this notice. Every person filing a written objection with SLGA shall state their name, address, and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objections(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds, and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact based objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing. Write to:

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gamin Authority Box 5054 Regina Sk. S4P 3M3

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Maymont

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Maymont for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, April 13, 2023 to May 15, 2023.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY), accompanied by a $400.00 fee for each assessment being appealed, to: Secretary of the Board of Revision, c/o Assessor at the Village of Maymont, Box 160, Maymont, Sask S0M1T0, by the 15th day of May 2023. Dated this 13th day of April, 2023.

Denise Bernier, Assessor

HIP/KNEE

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The Disability Tax

Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $30,000 Lump sum refund

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NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL R.M. OF PAYNTON NO. 470

NOTICE is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Rural Municipality of Paynton No. 470 for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open for inspection in the office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days;

Monday to Thursday – April 13, 2023 to May 15, 2023

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal accompanied by a $75.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful to:

Mike Ligtermoet, Secretary of the Board of Revision 642 Agnew Street Prince Albert, SK S6V 2P1

Email: NorSaskBoardServices@sasktel.net

by the 15th day of May, 2023. Dated this 13th day of April, 2023.

Michelle Buechler Assessor

Resort Village of Kivimaa – Moonlight Bay NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Resort Village of Kivimaa-Moonlight Bay for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection from April 14th, 2023 to May 12th, 2023. Please contact us by calling 306-845-3336 or emailing rvkmb@myaccess.ca and we will make the information available to you from 11 am to 4 pm on the following days:

Mondays: April 17th, 24th, May 1st, 8th

Tuesdays: April 18th, 25th, May 2nd, 9th

Wednesdays: April 19th, 26thm May 3rd, 10th

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment or classification to the board of revision is required to file his or her notice of appeal with: The Secretary, Board of Revision, 642 Agnew Street, Prince Albert, SK., S6V 2P1 by the 12th day of May, 2023.

Dated this 14th day of April, 2023

Dot Andrews, Assessor

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

Notre Dame Garage Tender RC Parish of Notre Dame in North Battleford is now accepting tenders for the construction of a 16’x24’ garage complete with concrete footings, floor and driveway. Contact Glen at 306 441 5858 for the specifications. Tender closes April 28, 2023. Bids to be sent to: Notre Dame Garage Project 1201-105 Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1S8

Farmland Sale by Tender: Modular Home on 114 Acres - RM of Leask #464, Listed at $250,000, Tenders Close Tue., April 25, 2023

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF PARKDALE NO. 498

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Parkdale No. 498 for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, April 14, 2023 to May 15, 2023 (except on Statutory Holidays).

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person wishing to appeal against their assessment is required to file their notice of appeal with: The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Courtney Joseph, Box 149, Meota, Sask. S0M 1X0, by the 15th day of May, 2023. Any appeal must accompany a fee of $75.00 per property addressed to the RM of Parkdale, which will be returned if the appeal is successful

Dated this 14th day of April, 2023 Ashela McCullough, Assessor

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll

R.M. of Meeting Lake No. 466

Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the R.M. of Meeting Lake No. 466 for the year of 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Assessor, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., on the following days:

Monday to Thursday April 13, 2023 to May 15, 2023.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the Assessment Notices have been sent as required. Any person wishing to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with:

The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Claudette McGuire, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota, Sask. S0M 1X0 by the 15th day of May, 2023.

To forward your appeal fee of $100.00 per parcel and for more information regarding your assessment, please contact the Assessor at: R.M. Of Meeting Lake No.466 Box 26 Mayfair, SK S0M 1S0 (306)246-4228

Dated this 4th day of April, 2023.

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battlefords humane society

A lil spitfire of a kitty! I came to the shelter almost a whole year ago! I’m currently playing with all my friends at the cat café in Saskatoon. If you need more love in your life then here I am!

A bouncy and energetic boy who loves meeting new friends! I am a quick learner and am sooooo much fun! Talk to my buddies at the shelter to meet me! See you soon!

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Janelle Lavallee Assessor

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Join The Auction Action Team

Upcoming Sales:

Donald & Jean

–Farm Sale – Cookson @ 10:00 am 2750 JD Front Wheel Assist Tractor/ 245 JD Loader, JD 665 Skid Steer, 3788 IH Tractor, Vehicles, Shop, Tools, Yard, Misc items

June 17th- Alma & Kevin Latus – Farm Sale- Spiritwood

July 8th- Rene & Pauline Nicolas- Acreage Sale – Shell Lake

REQUIRED

IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp this spring with possibility of year round. Spring location: Arborfield, SK. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food and handling ticket.

Send resume and work references to:

Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0;

Fax: 306-769-8844

Email:

brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www.

brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: needed this spring for dozers, excavators, rock trucks: near Carrot River, Sk. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d.

Send resume and work references to:

Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844

Email:

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To book Classified Advertising call 306-445-7261

Maidstone and District News

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

Congratulations to Maidstone Ice Arena’s Trip of the Month winners for April. Nathan Allers won the $1,000 travel voucher and Duane Doud won the ticket money back.

Maidstone’s 2023 travel group left on their international trip April 4. My 15-year-old granddaughter is one of the students on the trip so I’ve been getting a visual tour of London, Paris and currently Rome.

Maidstone Pharmacy’s Easter colouring contest winners were Logan for the

seven and under category and Ellie for the age eight to 12 group. Each won a beautiful Easter basket.

The Kin Club’s Easter dance last Thursday had an amazing turnout. Brennan Becotte donated his top-grade DJ services and Heather Franks for treats.

The Easter bunny made a special appearance and joined in hopping around the dance floor much to the delight of the kids.

The Walter family fire recovery fundraiser is Saturday, April 15 in Colonsay. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the silent auction begins. The burger/hotdog supper

is at 5:30 p.m. and bring a bag or bucket for the kids’ Easter egg hunt at 6:30 p.m., followed by a dance and social until 2:30 a.m.

The cost is $40 for a family of four, $15 for over age 10, $10 for ages three to 10, free for ages two and under, and $5 for dance only. Jeff and Carrie (former Maidstone resident) and their children — Waylon Walter and Eric, Jack and Jessie Cutsforth — appreciate all the love and support as they recover from the loss of their home and belongings.

Maidstone Legion Club Room will be closing at the end of April for the summer

FISHER’S DRUG STORE

Fisher's Drug Store is a large independently owned pharmacy operating under the Pharmachoice banner. We offer a friendly work environment and have very attractive store hours. We are open from 9am to 7pm during the week, 9am to 5pm on Saturdays and closed on Sundays and holidays.

We are looking for a Pharmacy Assistant or Technician

to join our team to provide a high level of personal, professional service to our customers. We provide a wide range to services to our clients, including compliance packaging, ostomy products, athletic and injury bracing and many more. Experience is a asset but not required as we will train the appropriate person for the job

Duties will include the following:

•Assisting in filling prescriptions, under a pharmacists supervision, as provided for by the regulations of the Saskatchewan College of Pharmacy Professionals.

•Be aware of and abide by government regulations, and any policies of the employer, in regard to control, safekeeping, sale, return and disposal of pharmaceuticals, under the supervision of a pharmacist.

•Be responsible for general housekeeping duties, and the general appearance of the pharmacy area.

•Be familiar with all merchandise carried in the department, as well as new products, especially those pertaining to the pharmacy and retail pharmacy area.

•Assisting in customer complaints within the policies of the employer.

•Assisting with inventory in the pharmacy area-ordering and receiving pharmaceuticals under the supervision of a pharmacist, and other duties related to inventory in the pharmacy area, (as assigned by management).

•To provide prompt courteous, friendly, caring service to customers.

•Other duties as assigned by management.

To apply, please contact Darren Fisher's at Drug Store by: Phone: 306-445-6153 Fax: 306-445-7114

email: fishersdrugstore@sasktel.net

HELP WANTED

(until October). There are only three Thursday draws for Chase the Ace (unless it goes sooner). If the Ace of Spades jackpot hasn’t been won by the end of April, they’ll draw until it does go.

The Standard Hill slopitch tourney at Silver Lake Regional Park will be June 9 to 11. To enter a team, contact Chris Zerr 306893-8115 or Kyla Paton 306-893-8056.

Speaking of Chris Zerr, if you have the chance get down to Macklin Lake this weekend to see our Maidstone Kin Club members take the plunge. Chris, Marc Telenga, Wes Bolig and Jeff Watt are taking part in the “Take Your Breath Away” polar dip challenge, brought to you by Macklin Kinette Club to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis Canada. With teams from Saskatchewan challenging the Alberta contingency, I’m sure this will be

a sight to behold. Maidstone Disc Golf is offering free disc golf lessons and tips from local players, available in group or individual settings. These will be available weeknights between May and September. Discs are provided and it’s free. Join the Facebook group “Maidstone Disc Golf” and comment there, email maidstone.disc.golf @ gmail.com or talk to Ryan Donovan in person or on Facebook.

St. Walburg Bingo Association sent us a reminder that the weekly bingo at the Elks Hall has been changed to Tuesday evenings. Doors still open at 6:30 p.m. with bingo starting at 7:15 p.m.

Other Reminders:

April 16 and 23 - Waseca Community Centre Bingo at 1 p.m. (drinks and snacks available); April 26 - Minor Hockey spring meeting in the arena at 7 p.m.

TOWN OF RADISSON

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

MAINTENANCE FOREMAN

Full-Time Position

CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

The Town Foreman shall be responsible for the general management of all aspects of the Town of Radisson’s Public Works Department, including the water and sewer utility system.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Grade 12 or equivalent

• Valid Driver’s License

• Class 1 Water Distribution and Treatment Certification or willing to obtain

• Experience operating heavy equipment such as graders, loaders etc

SKILLS:

• Positive attitude

Self-Motivated

• Excellent leadership and communication skills

•DUTIES:

• Supervision of all public works staff

• Maintain all Town equipment and buildings

• Ensure water testing and maintenance of Water systems is carried as per Permits

• Maintain safe conditions of roads and sidewalks

• All other duties that may be assigned by the Administrator

SALARY: Salary negotiable dependent on qualifications.

Full Benefits Package offered

Apply To: The Town of Radisson Box 69 Radisson, SK S0K 3L0

Email: tradisson@sasktel.net

1 (306) 827 - 2218

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SUMMER STUDENT PROGRAM

The Resort Village of Aquadeo is seeking a Seasonal Summer Employee.

The position will include but not be limited to the following:

• maintenance related to buildings, beaches and parks and green space

• operation of various equipment

• refuse pick-up

• occasional weekend work

The qualifications require you to have a valid Drivers License, the ability to work with other employees and also independently and to be available for the summer months.

Resumes will be received until suitable candidate has been hired.

Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Start date will be as soon as possible.

To apply or for more information please call Kylie at 306-445-7261

Monday to Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM 892-104th Street North Battleford

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR RESUME BY EMAIL TO:

THE RESORT VILLAGE OF AQUADEO aquadeoadmin@gmail.com

Attention: Gina Bernier

Mayfair and District News

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Whitkow and surrounding districts were saddened to hear that our close neighbour recently passed away. Deepest sympathy to his wife and families on their loss. At his request, no funeral or memorial service is to be held.

Everyone needed a break from the cold weatXher so many folks from a distance drove to Mayfair Community Hall for the Thickwood Hills Wildlife Federation’s annual fish fry April. An extremely large crowd attended the delicious supper. Awards were given to the different categories for outdoor fishing and hunting activities. There were draws for various prizes and a great eve-

ning of visiting was shared.

Kolin Bulmer has officially retired from being employed by the RM of Meeting Lake for many years. He was the maintenance foreman. Both he and his wife Cheryl can enjoy retirement together but there is always a lot of work to do on a farm. Retired from the RM but too young to give up on farming.

Family Easter get-togethers have been a tradition for many years, as Lorena Lafreniere can attest. This year was unusual. Her son Greg and family from British Columbia did not travel to the cold, snowy prairies. Her son Dean and family from Biggar were also not there for Easter due to other commitments.

Mayfair’s Catholic Church will still be at 9

From the Pastor’s Desk

a.m. even if the parish priest will be away on holiday for the next few weeks. Priests are in short supply, so if one isn’t there to replace Father, we have parishioners who have taken training to be lay ministers.

The interior of British Columbia is bursting with an assortment of gorgeous coloured tulips and daffodils and fruit trees are in full bloom. We can only dream of this on the prairies! Betcha’ two weeks from now our wild grassland will be adorned with nature’s beauty of crocuses and tons of pussy willows.

Have a good week everyone, walk outside early morning and evening as the days are getting much longer which is what we look forward to this time of the year.

By David L. Walker Turtleford Baptist Church

Hello once again. Trusting that you had a great Easter, as the world remembered the atoning work of the Lord Jesus through His death, burial and resurrection. TBC had an early morning Easter sunrise breakfast, where four men and a young boy were busy in the kitchen, giving the ladies a chance to sit back and enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, potato cakes, toast and fruit for dessert. Following breakfast, we had our 11 a.m. worship service. We had 29 in attendance at the breakfast.

We had a great

GGMH hymn sing March 26, with 24 in attendance. Can children come? Yes, we do a children’s song with actions if any children are present. GGMH stands for “Gather Gospel Music Hour” (although as it grows that hour is more like an hour and a half). We gather on the last Sunday of every month at 6 p.m. At the Turtleford Baptist Church 314- Railway Ave.

In an informal way, we

sing hymns, gospel songs and even country and western gospel, followed by a lunch in the lower auditorium. Hope to see you April 30. In March the lunch consisted of whatever one happened to bring, but we did have a birthday cake for Don Rookes who turned 77. Everyone is special and we welcome visitors with open arms. Why not come check us out some Sunday morning? We are familyoriented, we back what we say with scripture and we are only sinners saved by the grace of God.

Until next time, remember before Jesus ascended back to Heaven, He said He would come again. Are you looking for His coming?

Meota and District News

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

Paul St. Amant and Louis and Charles Baillargeon ran the Mount Charleston Marathon (26.2 miles) on Saturday, April 1. The marathon begins roughly 21 miles up Kyle Canyon Road near the original Mt. Charleston Lodge northwest of Las Vegas. Standing at 7,650 feet above sea level surrounded by snowcapped peaks the fresh mountain air was a crisp -2C on April 1.

Runners were loaded into buses between 3 and 3:15 a.m. and were transported to the starting point where they waited for the 6 a.m. start. The race route included a 20-mile stretch of pure running bliss as the course heads downhill

towards Las Vegas at a nearly steady four per cent grade. Downhill running sounds easy; however, it requires intense training to offset the strain placed on quad/calf muscles including added pressure on the knees and ankles. “At mile 20, I thought I was dead. At mile 22, I wished I was dead. At mile 24, I knew I was dead. At mile 26.2, I realized I had become too tough to kill,” one of the racers said.

Paul finished the marathon at 3:08:01. Louis’s time was 3:45:33 and Charles’s. 3:56:46. It was a “fun event” and all three were successful in qualifying for the 2024 Boston Marathon.

An Easter party was held at the Edam Enriched Manor April 8. Debbie Belland, social direc-

tor led a couple of games and enjoyed snacks along with their Easter cake. The cake was made by Joanne Rubisch. She also made and sent two over to the day care centre, for their afternoon Easter party. The young folks enjoyed their cake, also.

Debbie is here every afternoon with activities for residents to enjoy, together, so no one has a chance to be lonesome or inactive.

The last jigsaw puzzle has been a hard one but is finally finished this week. Anyone can work on the puzzles, at any time, so is really a group activity.

I’m sure everyone who likes curling enjoyed the past week and is proud of our Canadian team coming out with the silver medal. They worked so hard and did us proud.

The bridge players were back at it in the Pioneer Hall April 4, with four tables in play. Top score was by Vern Iverson and Barbara Mitchell. Second were Jeannine Beloin and Jetta DeSilva and third were Bernie and Lucille Gregoire. Thursday, they had three tables and top score went to Jean Lawes and Fraser Glen. Tied for second were Mary Phelps and Eric Callbeck and Cletus Scherman and David Sharpe.

At the Do Drop In on April 7, there were four tables in play. Gwen Lacelle and Eric Callbeck topped the scoring with 61,535 points. Second were Cora Christiansen and Bev McCrimmon and tied for third with less than 100 points difference were Linda Ard and Svend Christiansen playing against Dave Ottas and Jack Stewart. All

Paul St. Amant and Louis and Charles Baillargeon recently ran the Mount Charleston Marathon northwest of Las Vegas. | Photo submitted

enjoyed the grapes that someone brought. April 17, another couple of films will be shown in the Do Drop In. The feature film will be “The Machine That Feels.” This film explores the ever-growing and mysterious world of artificial intelligence. Scientists see A1 technology as an opportunity to address inequities and make a more connected world. But it also can do the opposite

— to stoke division and inequality and disconnect us from fellow humans. A meeting of the residents of Edam Manor held on April 4 finalized plans for the use of the raised garden beds by residents. We are all looking forward to summer and plants. The manor residents use the products raised, giving them a taste of fresh summer vegetables in their diets.