Regional News-Optimist April 27, 2023

North Stars are champs

Historic season

By Robin Wark SASKTODAY.ca

The Battlefords North Stars have swept their way to a Canterra Seeds Cup championship.

On Saturday night in Flin Flon, the North Stars beat the host Bombers 7-4 to claim the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League championship in a fourgame sweep. It is the North Stars’ fourth league championship since 2000. The squad won that year and in 2017 and 2019.

The league title caps a historic season in which the Battlefords team posted a 48-5-2-1 regular season record. The North Stars were 12-1 in the postseason. The squad won its last 12 games. In an interview with the SJHL on the ice after winning the league title, head coach Brayden Klimosko emphasized it is a special group that has found different ways to win.

“You can’t just outscore teams,” he said in the interview that was posted on the SJHL social media feeds.

“You’re going to have to defend … kill penalties, whatever it takes at times.

We did it. We played black

and silver hockey.”

The North Stars now advance to the Centennial Cup national Junior A hockey championship. The event will be held in Portage, Man. with the nine Canadian Junior Hockey League champions plus the host Terriers battling it out for a national title. In the interview with the SJHL, Klimosko said the team is ecstatic about heading to the Centennial Cup.

“Looking forward to putting some preparation in. The job is not finished,” he said. “Looking forward to what nationals brings.”

At the historic Whitney Forum on Saturday, the visiting North Stars trailed 1-0 and 2-1 in the first period but were up 3-2 by the first intermission. Two second-period goals gave Battlefords a 5-2 lead. Both teams scored twice in the third. Both of the Bombers’ goals came on the powerplay in that frame – matching the two-man advantage goals the North Stars also scored in the contest. Battlefords had an empty net goal late in the game.

Jordan Grill and Steven Kesslering each scored twice for the North Stars. Also scoring for Battl-

The Battlefords North Stars won the league title on the weekend, capping a historic season in which they posted a 48-5-2-1 regular season record. |

efords were Holden Doell, Colby Bear, and Kian Bell. Goalie Josh Kotai made 44 saves on 48 shots. He backstopped the North Stars to all of their playoff wins.

For the Bombers, Alexi Sylvestre scored a hat trick. Jacob Vockler also found the back of the net. Harmon Laser-Hume stopped 29 shots.

The North Stars claimed the first two games at home by scores of 5-2 and 3-0. The Battlefords team then took a stranglehold on the series with a game three 6-2 victory last Friday in Flin Flon. The North Stars outshot the Bombers, 45-

32. The Battlefords team scored three straight goals in the first period. The Bombers got a goal in the final second of the frame to make the score 3-1. The North Stars scored the first two goals of the second. The Bombers got a goal and then Battlefords added one more. Neither team scored in the third period.

Kesslering had two goals for the North Stars. Also scoring for Battlefords were Tynan Ewart, Jordan Gibbs, Keiton Klein, and Bell. Josh Kotai turned away 30 the 32 goals he faced.

Photos by Eric Westhaver / Flin Flon Reminder

VOICE

Phone: 306-445-6226

Find us on Facebook www.battlefordschamber.com

P.O. Box 1000

The REAL Value of Joining a Chamber of Commerce

Linda Machniak, ACE, Chief Operating Officer

Working in a Chamber of Commerce office I can tell you with 100% certainty that there are very good reasons for businesses to join their local Chamber of Commerce. But, alas, I am biased, at least some would say so. So, let me give you some facts and figures that don’t come from me, they come from you, the consumers!

Over the years, I have read many studies on shopping locally, value of a chamber of commerce to a business community and a community as a whole, the pros and cons of joining, and many more, so it was intriguing when I saw a recent report on the “Real Value of Joining a Chamber of Commerce”. This report, though, showed the reasons it was important to you, the consumer, yes, you the residents

Firstly, for those that don’t know facts about a chamber of commerce, here we go. A chamber of commerce is made up of local and regional businesses and is financed in large part by membership dues. 95% of you said that. Fact.

92% of people said that a chamber of commerce functions as a storehouse of information on current business trends and public policies. Fact.

47% of people shared their belief that a chamber of commerce is a government agency, funded by municipal or some level of government. Myth. You get the picture.

Here are some fun figures: Consumers believe that a business who is active in their local chamber of commerce shows them that the business : a) uses good sound business practices - 67%, b) has a good reputation – 67%, c) 64% agree that it shows them the business cares more about their customers, and d) that it shows the business is involved in their community - 63%. The same study also showed that consumers were 80% more likely to increase their future patronage in a business who is a chamber of commerce member.

Consumers are also 73% more likely to be highly aware of a business if they are a member of a chamber, and 68% more likely to think positively of its local reputation.

So, as you are out and about shopping in the Battlefords region, be sure to look for their chamber of commerce membership plaque. Support those that are supporting you, your community and your home.

Businesses join a chamber of commerce for several different reasons. It is a good business strategy, as you can see in these numbers, but some join for reputation, some join because “it’s the right thing to do”, while others join for the networking and promotional opportunities, or to build their own personal networks. I could go on, but the value of a chamber of commerce to you the consumer should be the #1 reason.

Whatever the reason, thank you for validating their investment in not only the Battlefords & District Chamber of Commerce, but their investment in the Battlefords as a whole. We can’t do it without them, and they can’t do it without you! Keep shopping Battlefords!

Nominations Open

The 29th Battlefords Business Excellence (BBEX) Awards has now opened their nomination window. The public can nominate a business or a person in any of the open categories. Public nominations will run through midnight, May 25th, 2023.

Award categories include:

[1.] Heather Guthrie Customer Service Star Award (Owner/Enetrepreneur)

[2] Impact Award (Non-Profit, Not-for-Profit or Charity)

[3] Agriculture and Agri-Business Award

[4] New Business Venture Award

[5] Community Contribution Award

[6] Micro Business Award

[7] Young Entrepreneur Award (age 35 years or under on December 31, 2022)

[8] Members’ Choice Award

The BBEX Awards, now in their 29th edition, will celebrate a business community that has been so resilient and remains strong coming out of the pandemic, and they deserve to be acknowledged for their excellence is specific areas. From the open categories of awards, a “Business of the Year” award recipient is also selected by the jury.

Residents may go online to www.battlefordschamber.com and click the BBEX icon, as shown above, and proceed to the nomination process. As easy as a few clicks. There is a description of each award in the materials to make it easier to select a category for recognition.

The BBEX committee continues to work on the planning for a November 8th, 2023 gala celebration.

Businesses join the Chamber of Commerce for many reasons, but they all believe in the business community of the Battlefords. This group of new Chamber members are a broad representation across sectors, some are new businesses while others have had a change in ownership, and yet others join to offer/share the #1 employee benefits plan in Canada with their staff and families.

NEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS:

Local Members:

◆ Adora Diamonds

• 11422 Railway Avenue East, North Battleford

• 306-445-6868

◆ Fauchon Electric Ltd. Plumbing & Heating

• 131 – 22nd Street, Battleford

• 306-441-3566

◆ Pillar to Post Home Inspector

• P.O. Box 2404, Battleford

• 306-481-4681

◆ Norsasklaw

• Moved to a home-based business

• richard@norsasklaw.com

◆ FFUN Dodge North Battleford

• 3042 – 99th Street, North Battleford

• 306-445-6640

• New Owners (previously Scott Campbell Dodge)

The Battlefords & District Chamber of Commerce wishes to send our sincere thanks and best wishes on the retirement of Lyle Jones, of Jones Law Office, who has provided services and advice to the Chamber for many years. We appreciate you!

Calendar of Events:

Chamber on Tap:

Thursday, May 4th, 2023

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Blend - Riverside

1 Riverside Road, North Battleford

Guest: Michael Brennan

President & CEO, Great Western Brewery

Upcoming Chamber on Tap dates

-June 1st, 2023 at Discovery Co-op Café

Sponsored By: Get

9th Chamber Business Golf Challenge

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

A proposal for a new splash park made its way to North Battleford city council Monday.

Rotary Club of the Battlefords is making the pitch for the splash park project, which would be in the Connaught School area.

Warren Williams of Rotary, along with former Mayor Wayne Ray, made the presentation to council. Williams said they had a mandate to “support the youth in our community,” and are hoping to partner with Living Sky School Division as well as the city on the project.

Williams pointed to Connaught School as a “great location” for the North Battleford splash park because of the large schoolyard as well as a playground and basketball court also nearby.

Williams said Rotary

is committing to funding $200,000 to the project and said they will need three years to raise it, adding they were pretty sure they could raise it in two.

Their request of the city was a contribution of $100,000, which didn’t have to all be cash but could include services in kind. There is already an agreement in principle with Living Sky School Division for the use of the land. Williams said that their club president Randy Patrick had made a presentation on the project to Living Sky School Division.

City Director of Parks and Recreation Cheryl DeNeire indicated discussions have been preliminary, and nothing has been decided. But she did indicate administration had experience with splash parks.

Council members were enthusiastic about the

proposed splash park.

“In principle, I will support this,” said Councillor Greg Lightfoot, who nevertheless said council needed more information before they can look at how they can partner on this.

Councillor Kelli Hawtin liked the Connaught location, noting that it also was the most highly attended community barbecue location when those were going.

“There’s no doubt that there is a desire in that area of our community to have things that pull them together,” said Hawtin.

Mayor David Gillan also supported the partnership with Living Sky, which he called “very well thought through. I think more of those partnerships should happen.”

The issue will come back at the next council meeting where a more formal motion of support is expected.

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

In the early afternoon of April 24, a fire broke out at a multi-family building on Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation, 20 kilometres south of Battleford. This was the home for eight families — a total of 31 people, including children ranging from five months old to teenagers. No casualties were reported.

“All are safe ... Chief and Council are working to coordinate resources

to support our families,” reads the release from MGBHLM First Nation.

Responding to the fire was immediate at approximately 12:30 p.m. However, the multi-plex was engulfed within minutes, and the building was destroyed.

An emergency meeting took place at 7 p.m. held at MGBHLM boardroom with Indigenous Services Canada, Red Cross, FSIN, BATC and MGBHLM Economic Development Corp.

“We thank all those who have reached out, na-

tion to nation,” says MGBHLM.

The nation will be seeking shelter, clothes, food and household items for all eight families immediately, with Glenda Bird, the MGBHLM Community navigator, available at 306480-4130.

According to a BATC Facebook post, any and all donations for the families are appreciated and are to be dropped off at the Tropical Inn until Thursday, April 27, when a new location will be advised

CMHA Battlefords celebrating Mental Health Week May 1-7

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Droves of waxwings paid me a visit the other day. Their numbers were outstanding. Quite a spectacle to watch them form a dancing cloud in front of a strikingly blue sky. It is a beautiful world out there when you take the time to see it. |

Feist

Association (CMHA) Battlefords branch is celebrating mental health week, which is May 1 to 7, with an Artist Showcase and Walk for Mental Health Awareness.

“’My Story’ is this year’s

focus because we all have different yet equally valuable stories,” says CMHA Battlefords branch

May 1, they’ll be showcasing artists, which includes items from their membership and staff, at their office at 1602 - 103rd St., North Battleford, between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.

On May 3, CHMA Bat-

tlefords branch will be hosting its Walk for Mental Health Awareness, leaving the CMHA office at 11 a.m., walking through downtown and returning to the office for chili and a bun.

“Participating in art, physical activity and connection are great avenues used by many for wellness.”

Photo and text by Blake

A fire at MGBHLM First Nation has left families needing shelter, clothes and food. | Photo courtesy MGBHLM First Nation/ Tanya Aguilar Antiman Facebook

John Cairns’ News Watch

When AM radio finally disappears, we’ll lose something

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

Those who know me well know that I am not only a heavy media consumer in general, but also a very heavy radio listener.

Because of my heavy preference for information and news, and especially sports, I have been a particular devotee of AM radio. That’s been the way it is for years

— you tuned in to FM for the music, and AM for the spoken word stuff.

So imagine my horror when I read the stories a couple of weeks ago about how car manufacturers are planning to phase out AM from the car radios in their new models, and in particular their electric vehicle lines.

The excuse we are getting is that the electricity interferes with the AM. Right. From what I gather, what manufacturers really want to offer more “proprietary” services where they own the technology and can force you to pay to listen to the radio.

As a consumer, I’m obviously outraged by this prospect.

If you take a step back, however, and look at the landscape, the reality is that this potential move by the car manufacturers is reflective of a larger situation going on. The reality is AM radio looks like it finally might be on its way out.

I am sad to say this, because for years I have loved to tune in late at night to the signals of radio stations from far distant places, whose local signals in Chicago or San Antonio or San Francisco or wherever would bounce off the atmosphere and land on my radio dial here in frozen Canada. That was part of the excitement. Here’s some station in Denver or Salt Lake City or wherever, with the local weather and traffic report, and you’re picking up the same signal the locals are getting. And if the conditions were just right, you might even pick up signals from Mexico, or even Cuba.

It was awesome back in the old days. During baseball season, you could just turn the AM dial at night and hear the networks of countless Major League Baseball teams like the Twins, the Cubs, the Mariners, the Rockies or the Royals, among others. In fact, you can still do that; you don’t need a Sirius XM subscription. If you want to save money on satellite radio, just tune in to AM.

You could also listen to all-news stations like WBBM which boomed in from Chicago, or KNX from Los Angeles, or a multitude of talk stations. Late at night, I used to tune into Larry King when he had his Mutual radio show — there were plenty of stations carrying that show in those days.

These were the days before the internet, so if you wanted to tune in to radio stations from outside your local market, you had to tune in to AM because the FM signals didn’t travel as far. And if you wanted to tune in to countries around the world, you would tune in shortwave radio and signals such as the BBC World Service, Radio Nederland, Deutsche Welle and other services.

But times have changed, and in many ways things have gotten better. Thanks to the internet and your apps on your tablets, you can now tune into radio stations streaming online from anywhere in the world. You could get far more and far better programming than what your shortwave radio could ever offer.

That was what finally put the shortwave stations out to pasture. One by one, those stations disappeared from the shortwave dial, with some including the BBC shifting their efforts to online.

The way I see it, AM radio is heading to the same cliff that shortwave radio fell off of about a decade or so ago.

In other parts of the world, it’s already happening. Here’s an example: back in the mid-80s on a family trip to the United Kingdom, I turned the AM dial at night and found an American radio station with American sports programming.

It was Armed Forces Radio from a transmitter in West Germany, airing the U.S. college football bowl games. As someone who missed seeing American football on the local UK TV stations, this was a godsend.

Fast forward to 2023 and that same Armed Forces AM station is now gone. Kaput. They’ve shifted their signals entirely to FM and digital/online. And that’s happened to AM radio pretty much throughout continental Europe and even many parts of Asia.

Almost all the major European broadcasters have shifted to FM or to something called DAB - digital audio broadcasting. There are still holdouts like the UK and elsewhere where “medium-wave” is still going, but in general it’s a dying medium.

I guess the real question to ask is why the shift away from AM hasn’t accelerated in North America the same way. Maybe it’s because large swaths of North America aren’t densely populated, so the powerful AM signals could get to those areas when FM couldn’t.

Continued on Page 5

Letters welcome

Letters to the editor are welcomed by the Regional Optimist. All letters, including those which are faxed or emailed, must be signed and bear the address and telephone number of the writer. The name of the writer will be published. Letters are subject to editing. Personal attacks will not be printed. Letters will be rejected if they contain libelous statements or are unsigned.

Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher Administration

Kylie Cooke • Elisha Parkinson • DTI/Receptionist

Editorial Jayne Foster Editor SASKTODAY.ca

Lisa Joy Reporter • Miguel Fenrich Reporter

Advertising Sales Candace Mack-Horton Sales Manager Composition

Claude Paradis Prepress Manager

Senseless Vandalism

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

The other evening a most pleasant lady phoned me spending a full five minutes apologizing for calling. I waited patiently, having lots of time to prepare my answer for the anticipated request for funding for whatever project it was she had difficulty approaching.

Eventually, she explained that some time ago she and her husband with others had donated the gazebo which graces the Battleford river walk. It has been vandalized she bemoaned, its lights ripped out and the electrical controller stolen. She asked if I would consider commenting on vandalism in one of my articles - if not, she would write anonymously to this newspaper. I explained that a name and address would have to be provided.

As a simple age-relieving activity, I go on short walks close to where I live and at the turning extremity a park bench would be greatly appreciated for myself and others. I had been considering donating one to the city. How, I wondered, could one prevent it from being vandalized or stolen as it would be very much exposed at the start of a drag strip and fast-

The

WoodPile

food container depository. I have now decided to take my walking stick with me and rest upon it as necessary.

Last fall, my wife and I thought we would go for a short drive and see how the now demolished Saskatchewan Hospital site was looking – not a stick, brick or stone remain except for the forlorn little chapel largely surrounded by desolation and overgrown weeds. The building is in remarkably good shape but is starting to show early signs of vandalism. In front there is a cleared area, surely an ideal spot for druid ceremonies and yob gatherings and being used as such as indicated by trash and firework residue. The area is a prime target for vandals - I cannot imagine how the

group planning to create a historical site will be able to protect the building and surroundings. Perhaps the chapel should be taken down stone by stone and re-erected elsewhere as with London Bridge and some dwellings and stately homes in Britain. I am sure that this treasure will eventually suffer the same fate and fire as befell the Government Ridge building. That spectacular conflagration was recorded by famed photographer, the late Menno Fieguth, and is featured in his book “The Seasons and Moods of Battleford”.

In 1987, Milton Lockhart, a most picturesque privately owned mini castle, not far from where I was born and raised in Scotland, was deteriorating and had been put up for sale. It took the fancy of Masahiko Tsugawa, a famous Japanese actor, who dismantled and shipped it block by block 9,000 miles to Japan and rebuilt it in a theme park near Tokyo. What an extraordinary example of preservation and conservation.

How sad it is that my caller, her husband and others, good, generous community-minded people, are frustrated and deterred if not defeated, by senseless vandalism and wanton thievery.

BATC plans diversity ball

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Donald Meriam, event organizer for the June

23 Gender, Diversity & Equality Masquerade Ball has put months of love and tears into BATC’s first-ever LGBTQ2+ event.

“This event will bring our city the proper

News Watch

Continued from Page 4

But the decline clearly is now on and you notice it any time you pull in a distant signal on the AM dial. Whenever my car radio picks up WBBM on 780 AM now from Chicago, I notice they no longer refer to themselves as “Newsradio 780.” Now, they call themselves “105.9 FM!”

If you tune in to the powerful 1160 signal from KSL in Salt Lake City, they now call themselves “Newsradio 102.7 FM,” If you manage to get the signal on 1070 from KNX Los Angeles, they’re “97.1 FM.”

That’s right, a lot of powerful AM stations have switched to FM signals. They seem to be keeping their AM transmitters on just for laughs.

For how much longer, you have to wonder. There are more and more stories about AM signals going silent. Just this year, down

LGBT-based education it deserves, to be able to teach traditional twospirit teachings, LGBT sex education that’s so needed within our communities, LGBT history and the struggles of making our voices heard,” Meriam said.

The event includes dinner, dancing, live music, a

in my favourite city of Las Vegas, Audacy Radio sold off their AM transmitter site and shut down their powerful KDWN transmitter on 720 and their allsports signal on 1140.

Those stations have now gone FM-only, not to mention available online. That’s the other thing: people can still tune in these distant stations online, anyway. So what good is an AM transmitter when the signal is clearer hooking up to the Wifi?

I shudder to think of the future, because AM is still my go-to on my car radio. As it stands, the decline of AM is starting to get noticeable in the programming, especially from the United States. Cost-cutting rules the roost, and local programming is getting shoved out so AM stations can air syndicated stuff like Coast to Coast AM late at night, or Dave Ramsey with his financial advice,

silent auction and speeches from guests and dignitaries from across the province, and is being held June 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the Western Development Museum in North Battleford.

The event will feature an exhibit of LGBT-based objects from Saskatchewan, photos collected from

not to mention a multitude of syndicated conservative talk shows.

I know folks like the late Rush Limbaugh liked to brag that conservative talk was what saved AM radio. The problem is there is now so much conservative talk on American AM stations that even the conservatives are sick of it.

You also have syndicated all-sports talk where the hosts beat the same topics into the ground over and over again. (“Who’s betterLeBron or Michael?!”) With legalization, there are even syndicated all-sports betting formats. (They killed an entire AM talk radio station in San Francisco to make room for this.)

Now in a sure sign the end times are coming, you have a ton of all-religious stations on AM. And there are now a ton of “all-Mexican” formats on AM -- IN THE UNITED STATES.

Seriously, what’s next

the USask Neil Richard’s collection and artifacts from WDM’s LGBTQ+ collection.

NDP MLAs Betty Nippi-Albright and Nathaniel Teed will be speaking, along with Jazz Moise and Councillor Trina Albert from Sweetgrass First Nation. Melissa Squire has designed gender-neutral clothing for the event, and Hilberg and Berk have donated earrings and necklaces from their

down there? “All-Canadian?”

Don’t get me started with what’s happening in Canada, where we saw entire all-sports AM radio stations blown out and closed, not to mention layoffs and programming cuts at other places. Many of the same folks who got thrown out of their AM radio jobs are now doing

prism collection.

“I’ve been to the university and sat down for hours going through photos, articles and books … tearing up seeing all these beautiful photos I had never seen before of protests in Saskatoon and Regina from the Doug Wilson Era of the 1970s,” Meriam said, having worked with BATC since April 2022.

“... (they) approved it without hesitation, knowing that I’m helping to

podcasts or live-steaming on internet platforms, helping bleed even more listeners away from AM.

You even have AM stations here in Canada that are mailing it in with all-comedy 24-7. I kid you not, this joke of a format is for real in Canada’s major cities like Calgary, Vancouver and Winnipeg, consisting of comedians’

open BATC to the LGBT community,” Meriam said, describing crying after the board approved the event, knowing that he’s helping to open BATC to the LGBT+ community.

“I wanted to see BATC involved more in the LGBT community, bringing in education to Atoskewin and taking that education and training out to our seven communities to honour the history of our peoples”

standup routines replayed all day and night. It’s a total waste of 50,000 watts of power that could be better used in your Tesla.

Anyway, put me down as an unhappy AM radio listener. Times are changing, but from this listener’s standpoint you have to wonder if it’s really for the better.

In an extraordinary example of preservation and conservation, a famous Japanese actor dismantled this structure in Scottland and shipped it block by block 9,000 miles to Japan to rebuilt it in a theme park near Tokyo. | Photo courtesy R.H. Wood

The chapel on the former Saskatchewan Hospital grounds is a prime target for vandals. | Photo courtesy R.H. Wood

Four-year prison term for accused who prompted dangerous persons alert

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A man who was charged after Spiritwood RCMP issued a dangerous persons alert is headed to prison.

On Thursday in North Battleford Provincial Court, 32-year-old Shane Witchekan was sentenced to four years in prison on a robbery charge. The remaining 11 weapons and breach offences were

stayed. With credit for time served in pre-trial custody, Witchekan had 1,122 days left to serve as of April 20.

Shane Witchekan and his brother, Kelly Witchekan, were arrested after a person was robbed at gunpoint on Sept. 2, 2022. They were charged with assault with a weapon, having a sawed-off .22 rifle, and prohibited firearms related offences.

On Sept. 2, 2022, at ap-

proximately 12:51 a.m., Spiritwood RCMP had received a report of shots fired on Witchekan Lake First Nation. Witnesses told police that a man in a grey Pontiac was shooting at a driver in a white Ford vehicle. While officers investigated the incident later that day, a vehicle fled from police. Two occupants abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into the bush. With the as-

Maidstone RCMP seize fentanyl, meth and cocaine

SASKTODAY.ca

Two people were arrested after Maidstone RCMP seized a significant amount of fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine and cocaine following a traffic stop.

Gurpreet Singh, 20, and Prince Sharma, 21, were both charged with three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine. Sharma was additionally charged with three counts of failing to comply with release conditions.

Police say on the evening of April 21, they performed a roadside stop on Highway 16 near Maidstone. The roadside stop was initiated for a licence, registration and sobriety check. While

speaking with the two men in the vehicle, the officer became suspicious that the occupants were in possession of illegal drugs. The two were detained for a drug investigation. Through this investigation, it was discovered that the passenger was breaching previous release conditions.

The officer believed that the passenger was in possession of illegal drugs. The passenger was arrested and when police searched the vehicle they found 3.3 kilograms of fentanyl, seven kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and one kilogram of cocaine.

The two appeared in Lloydminster Provincial Court Monday and were remanded in custody. They appear again on May 18.

sistance of Police Dog Services (PDS) and the RCMP Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), a 31-yearold Dallas Sakebow of Witchekan Lake First Nation was arrested.

Officers from the Spiritwood Detachment, along with additional RCMP resources including RCMP Police Dog Services (PDS) and the RCMP CIRT, assisted with locating more individuals involved.

On Sept. 5, 2022, at about 7:30 a.m., Spiritwood RCMP received a report of a stolen black Nissan SUV. About two hours later, Spiritwood RCMP got a call that people in a black Nissan SUV had stolen gas from a gas station

in Leoville. All occupants were reported to be wearing masks. Police received another report stating an occupant of a black Nissan SUV shot a firearm in the direction of a resident in the neighbourhood. The resident left the scene with no reported injuries.

All available officers from the Spiritwood RCMP along with additional RCMP resources including PDS, ERT and CIC, were called to locate the black Nissan SUV and RCMP issued a dangerous persons emergency alert to all residents in the Witchekan Lake First Nation and surrounding areas, urging them to seek immediate shelter.

Shane Witchekan was also charged in March 2022 after Spiritwood RCMP officers saw two suspicious vehicles outside a home on Witchekan Lake First Nation. Police obtained a search warrant and raided the home. They seized seven firearms, three prohibited weapons, 32.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine, 23.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 105 grams of an unknown substance, drug trafficking paraphernalia and cash.

In the March 2022 incident, the charges against Shane Witchekan were stayed in Spiritwood circuit court.

ljoy@glaciermedia.ca

On March 6, 2022, Spiritwood RCMP located two suspicious vehicles outside a home on Witchekan Lake First Nation. As a result of their investigation, four men were arrested and a search warrant was executed on the home. Police seized seven firearms, three prohibited weapons, approximately 32.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine, 23.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 105 grams of an unknown substance under investigation, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and a sum of cash. The charges against Shane Witchekan in this incident were stayed. | Photo courtesy RCMP

Man banned from NB sentenced on

drug

charge, obstruction

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Cody Caron, 40, who faced provincial and federal drug and weapons charges, has pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking but guilty to the lesser offence of possession.

After appearing in North Battleford court Thursday by phone from Saskatoon Correctional Centre, he also pleaded guilty to obstructing a peace officer and failing to comply with an order.

Caron was arrested in August 2022 for obstruction of a peace officer and various weapons and drugrelated charges, including possession of cocaine over $1,500.

His bail was set at $3,000, but he was arrested again in September after returning to the Battlefords when he was banned from the city.

Judge Kevin Hill, who oversaw the Oct. 14 bail hearing, recalled the incident in part and endorsed the joint submission by provincial and federal crown lawyers that sees Caron’s jail component satisfied.

Other charges against Caron were stayed.

Judge Hill said in his closing comments that he hopes Caron continues his now eight-month sobriety and takes the sentence as a fresh start, hopefully for his children.

“You’ve come across my desk several times over the last few years ... you’re saying the right things, but at this point, you’re the one that has to make it real.”

Judge Hill voiced concerns over his belief the RCMP may have misbehaved in the way they “roughed him up” during his September arrest.

Judge Hill, in his deci-

sion, waived the surcharges because of Caron’s inability to generate income while incarcerated and the money his family has spent trying to help him.

According to defence lawyer Patrick Piche, Caron is anxious to meet his one-month-old child, indicating that Caron has been battling addictions for 11 years after the death of his uncle.

“(Caron) recognizes that it begins and ends with addressing his addictions,” Caron’s lawyer said.

“You’re catching something of a break here ... There’s your fresh start, OK? The future is yours and in the palm of your hands,” Judge Hill said in his closing comments.

Caron was sentenced to time served, representing 327 days, based on one and a half days for each day he was in custody.

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4 facts about administrative workers

Administrative Professionals Week (APW) is celebrated annually on the last full week in April, which this year is April 23 to 29. The event aims to recognize and highlight the vital work of administrative professionals, including receptionists, secretaries, personal assistants, customer support workers and more. Here are some facts about administrative workers to give you insight into the profession.

1. The demand for skilled admin workers is on the rise across Canada. In fact, 41,700 new admin jobs are expected to become available between 2019 and 2028.

2. Administrative assistants are overwhel-

mingly female. In North America, over 90 per cent of administrative professionals are women.

3. The average administrative assistant annual salary in Canada is $35,121. However, the most experienced workers can make over $47,000.

4. The Canadian Certified Administrative Professional (CCAP) designation is a national accreditation and the highest industry standard for administrative professionals in Canada.

The administrative professional job has evolved over the years. The technology boom in the last decade has forced administrative workers to expand

their skills. On top of managing memos, spreadsheets and budgets, admin workers must also now be proficient in countless online programs and software.

This APW, thank an administrative professional in your life. You can do so by giving them a card, sending them a gift basket or offering them a gift card to an office store to upgrade their office supplies.

a Registered Psychologist

• in Saskatchewan

Experience providing individual, group and family therapy

• Knowledgeable and sensitive to Aboriginal issues with an

• understanding of the dynamics of intergenerational abuse Computer skills • Excellent verbal, written and time management skills

• A clear criminal and child abuse records check

• A valid driver’s licence • An immediate or negotiable start date with very competitive salary and benefts.

Due to the focus of the position being to provide services to First Nations individuals in an agency operated by member First Nations, preference will be given to those applicants for this position who are of aboriginal ancestry.

Please forward detailed resumés by email to: tony@tonymartens.ca or by mail to: 9621 - 161A Street, Surrey, B.C. V4N 2E8. Please address to the attention of Tony Martens, M.Sc., BSW, RCC, RSW.

Deadline for accepting applications is March 31, 2014 at 5pm local time.

Contact person: Tony Martens 604-583-6612. Only successful candidates who make the short list will be contacted. Recruitment process to continue until a successful candidate is selected.

Thank You!

This week we acknowledge and thank all of the front line professional office staff working so hard in the Battlefords. 306-445-6226 • Find us on www.battlefordschamber.com

Administrative Professionals Day takes place this year on April 26 and Administrative Professionals Week occurs during the last week in April (April 23 to 29). The annual event strives to be a reminder for businesses across the country to acknowledge the devotion and hard work of administrative professionals.

If you have an executive assistant, secretary or administrative assistant in your office that does an outstanding job, make sure you show your appreciation for the work they do this week and throughout the year.

These days, many businesses have entire teams of multitasking administrative professionals that keep their offices running smoothly. Administrative positions vary and those that have them may be office managers, executive assistants or secretaries. However, regardless of their exact position, administrative professionals must demonstrate core competencies that include the following:

• Computer skills. Not only do administrative professionals need to be quick with a keyboard, they also need to be computer literate. Creating spreadsheets, word documents and presentations are all in a day’s work.

• Time management. It’s not uncommon for a secretary or administrative assistant to have many different tasks on the go at one time. The best will be able to prioritize and get everything done without breaking a sweat.

• Communication. Often working on the front line for an entire company, an administrative professional needs to be able to communicate with everyone, from CEOs and interns to suppliers and clients.

5 ways to thank administrative staff from a distance

With so many employees working from home, you may be wondering how to ensure your colleagues get the recognition they deserve during Administrative Professionals Week. Here are five ways to express your gratitude this year, from April 23 to 29.

1. CREATE A COMPILATION VIDEO

Ask each of your colleagues to record a personalized message and assemble the clips in a heart-warming video. This will show members of your administrative team that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed.

2. DELIVER A GIFT BASKET

Contact local shops and producers to find out if they can put together an assortment of goodies to send to your colleague’s

home. Think artisanal cheeses and chutneys, organic skincare products, craft beer and spirits or handmade candles and knitwear.

3. TREAT THEM TO A

NIGHT IN

Many local restaurants, including some fairly upscale establishments, now offer delivery services. Send your colleague a gift card so

they can enjoy a delicious at-home dinner. Consider dropping off a bottle of locally made wine to complete the meal.

4. FIND A FUN ONLINE CLASS

Give your colleague an opportunity to learn a new skill or pursue a hobby from the comfort of their home. Increasingly, local groups are offering virtual courses for activities that range from yoga and fitness to creative writing, cooking and professional development.

5. UPGRADE THEIR HOME OFFICE

Show your colleague how much you value their work by helping to make their home office a more comfortable, functional and welcoming space. Send them a gift card for a home office supply store in their area so they can get

exactly what they need.

To our Medical Office Assistants

YOU are the backbone of SpesMed Clinic Specializing in Care

business running smoothly, and they deserve to be recognized for their dedication this week and throughout the year. Thank You! 2591 - 99th St. West, North Battleford 306-446-5550

Growth That Works For Everyone Supporting Saskatchewan’s Growing Municipalities

The 2023/24 Provincial Budget contains a record amount of $297.9 million in Municipal Revenue Sharing (MRS), up 13.4 per cent from last year. Saskatchewan municipalities are in the best position to know what is important for their communities. Municipal Revenue Sharing provides local leaders the flexibility to use the funds as they see fit to grow and build strong communities that work for everyone. Learn more at Saskatchewan.ca.

306-893-2619

Sask. media members accept awards in Mexico

SASKTODAY.ca

The Battlefords NewsOptimist’s editor, Jayne Foster, is among the new members of Glacier Media’s President’s Club. She was presented with the award recently in Mexico for her second role as editor of the 13-newsroom provincial website SASKTODAY.ca.

She earned her spot in the President’s Club based on year-on-year growth in digital viewership increase from 2021 to 2022. Foster had the largest viewership increase across Glacier Media’s Community Media Division.

As part of the President’s Club program, Foster earned a trip for two to Mexico this month.

In presenting the award, Community Media Division President Peter Kvarnstrom said, “Jayne Foster has been in the news business since, as she likes to say, ‘cut and paste meant get your scissors and tape out.’”

Foster worked on the province’s first electronic publishing system back in the 1980’s and has since worked through an amazing evolution of technology within the industry, he said

Art Notes

at a ceremony presenting awards to 38 individuals for 2021 and 2022.

“With this accrual of experience over the better part of four decades, Jayne was the obvious choice to lead our team of journalists in Saskatchewan’s only multi-newsroom provincial website, SASKTODAY,” said Kvarnstrom. “Jayne and her small group of re-

Alcohol in art

By Pam Beaver Battlefords Art Club

porters have paved the way for our digital future in Saskatchewan.”

He said, “From a startup in 2021 to take the top spot for growth in audience engagement across our Community Media division, Jayne has tallied more than a million page views every month and is moving very quickly toward two million and

Award winners from the Community Media division of Glacier Media were treated to a trip to Mexico, including four SASKTODAY.ca employees. They received their awards at a resort in San José del Cabo from Peter Kvarnstrom, President, Community Media Division, Glacier Media Group, and Jonathon Kennedy, President and CEO, Glacier Media. Pictured are Paul Galinsky, Reporter, Powell River Peak; Liz Jacobsen, Reporter, Preeceville Progress; Sales, Dot Campbell, Powell River Peak; Jayne Foster, Editor, SASKTODAY.ca/Battlefords NewsOptimist; Catherine Power-Chartrand, Sales Manager, Pique Newsmagazine; Jackie Boser, Sales Manager, Wilkie-Unity Press-Herald; Peter Kvarnstrom, President, Community Media Division, Glacier Media Group; Delores Young, Sales, Carlyle Observer; Jonathon Kennedy, President and CEO, Glacier Media. |

Photos by Cassandra Germsheid

has earned her place in the 2022 President’s Club.”

Glacier Media Group is an information and solu-

tions company employing 2,000 people specializing in such industries as agriculture, real estate, com-

munity media, weather, environmental risk, regulatory compliance, business and mining and metals.

“The practice of art isn’t to make a living. It’s to make your soul grow!” — Kurt Vonnegut

What? Alcohol at the club you say? Alcohol ink that is! What a fun day at the club messing around with alcohol inks. Our alcohol ink artists brought their whole kit and kaboodles, spread it all out, talked about it, and let anyone who was interested have a go! Vibrant colours sparked the imagination and we created, experimented and surprised ourselves. Members and friends left the club that afternoon feeling joyfully energized!

Contact the Battlefords Art Club to see what’s happening on Tuesdays (battlefordsartclub@gmail.com) and then drop in through Door 2 of the Don Ross Centre. We’d be happy to see you!

These works were created with alcohol ink. | Photos submitted

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier, MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook scottmoe.mla@sasktel.net 306-747-3422

Hon. Jeremy Cockrill, MLA for The Battlefords office@jeremycockrill.ca 306-445-5195

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

Jayne Foster, editor of SASKTODAY.ca and the Battlefords News-Optimist receives her award from Peter Kvarnstrom, President, Community Media Division, Glacier Media Group, and Jonathon Kennedy, President and CEO, Glacier Media.

New Horizons Wraps Up Season

Helping parents become the best they can be

Submitted

KidsFirst Battlefords

KidsFirst Battlefords is a voluntary program that helps parents become the best parents they can be. We work with pregnant moms and families with children up to three years old in the urban areas of Battleford and North Battleford. Home visitors bring current information on pregnancy and early childhood that can help caregivers make the best decisions about caring for their new baby and family. We offer access to counsellors and

RCMP seek three in death of Cut Knife man

sexual health support.

KidsFirst also facilitates two programs throughout the year. Both groups use stories, songs, and activities geared for specific age groups to promote fun and learning between children and their caregivers.

Circle of Learning is for babies aged birth – 18 months and their caregivers. It is offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at 1192 - 101st Street, Room 103.

Toddler Activity Group (TAG) is for children aged 18 months to three years

and their caregivers. It is held Wednesdays 1:15 to 2:45 p.m. at Don Ross gym.

KidsFirst is a part of the Battlefords Early Childhood Community Planning Network. The BECCPN is dedicated to collaborating with more than 30 organizations to bring the best supports and activities to families with young children across the Battlefords area.

For more information on KidsFirst programming, call (306) 937-6855 or visit www.facebook. com/kidsfirstnb.

April 29 Hazardous Waste Day’ in NB

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

According to a press release from the City of North Battleford, April 29 will mark the first ‘Hazardous Waste Day’ of 2023, giving residents an opportunity to drop off hazardous household materials free of charge.

Residents of North Battleford can drop off their items at the City’s Public

SASKTODAY.ca

Police are investigating after a 22-year-old man was found dead on Saulteaux First Nation on Tuesday.

RCMP say that on April 18 at approximately 12:15 p.m., Battleford RCMP received a report of an assault at a residence on the Saulteaux First Nation. When officers arrived at the residence, they located an adult man with serious injuries. Officers immediately began providing first aid and called for assistance from local EMS. The man was transported to hospital in Saskatoon with serious injuries. The North Battleford RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section (GIS), with the assistance of Saskatoon RCMP GIS, began an investigation.

On April 19, investigators were advised the injured man would not survive his injuries and Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes went to North Battleford and took over the investigation.

On April 22, Quin

Squair from Wilkie was declared deceased in hospital. Victim services have been made available for the family.

Riley Gopher, 26, from Saulteaux First Nation is charged with second-degree murder and robbery

A 17-year-old youth from Saulteaux First Nation is charged with second-degree murder, disguise with intent and unlawful confinement.

Wionna Katcheech, 22, from Saulteaux First Nation is charged with second-degree murder and unlawful confinement.

Alex Gopher, 31, from Sweetgrass First Nation is charged with second-degree murder.

Colton Swiftwolfe, 21, from Moosomin First Nation is charged with second-degree murder and robbery.

Riley Gopher and the 17-year-old youth were arrested on April 22 made their first court appearance April 24.

Arrest warrants have been issued for Wionna Katcheech, Alex Gopher, and Colton Swiftwolfe.

Investigators with Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crime, General Investigation Section, North Battleford RCMP Detachment, including the Gang Task Force, and the Saskatchewan Crime Reduction Team continue working to locate and arrest these three individuals.

If you see these three individuals, do not approach them and immediately call 911. Anyone with information about their whereabouts is asked to call North Battleford RCMP at (306) 446-1720. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Wionna Katcheech is described as having long brown hair and eyes. She 5-foot-four and approximately 161 pounds.

Alex Gopher has short brown hair and eyes. He is 6-feet tall and approximately 220 pounds.

Colton Swiftwolfe has short brown hair and eyes. He is 5-foot-7 and approximately 150 pounds.

Crime, Cops and Court

Works shop at 11112-6th Avenue between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 29. No commercial loads will be accepted.

“It’s really beneficial to ensure that residents are not just pouring hazardous ma aerosols, adhesives or automotive items; cleaners, corrosives or fuels; mercury, oxidizers or oil and gas mixtures; solvents or paint without labels.

“Like other munici-

palities, the City of North Battleford has hosted these events over the last number of years during the spring and fall, times when people are most likely to be cleaning out their homes, garages and sheds,” Blanchard commented, adding that improper disposal of hazardous items can be serious threats to human health and the environment.

Alex Gopher, Wionna Katcheech, and Colton Swiftwolfe are wanted by police. | Photos courtesy RCMP

New Horizons Curling members competed from January to March this year at Twin Rivers Curling Club. Coming out on top of the league finals was the team led by Alvin Welychko. Presenting the trophy is Peter Pauls, president of New Horizons. In the photo are Pauls, skip Welychko, third Bill Rayner (sub curler filling in for Deenna Haubold, second Wayne Rayfus and lead Edward Harting. | Photo submitted

Mayfair and District News

Shantaia Poulin nominated for five SCMA awards

five awards. They are female artist, songwriter of the year, video of the year, interactive artist and single of the year. Her single, “Broke to Brand New,” hit the charts and is indeed a great song.

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Home sweet home. Everything looks the same but when I left at the beginning of December, we had a surplus of snow already. The snow certainly disappeared but now a couple more storms dumped a blanket of white stuff again. This means extra moisture for farmers’ fields, lawns and gardens.

Mary and Henry Konopelski of Rabbit Lake are receiving excellent care at Rivers Heights Lodge in North Battleford. The move is always a challenge but they will greatly benefit by residing there. They like to see their old-time friends come and visit.

A come-and-go 90th birthday celebration is to take place at the North Battleford Wildlife Federation building (9710 - Thatcher

In

Ave.) Saturday, May 13.

Guest of honour is Irene Polichuk, a former farmer and mail deliverer from the Whitkow district. She is a resident at Battlefords River Heights Lodge and would love to see all of her old farm neighbours and others.

My dream came true two weeks ago when I flew from Yuma. Ariz. to Nashville, Tenn. This was my 71st birthday present to myself. My goal was to see a talented girl I taught for a few years around 18 years ago — Shantaia — who has been nominated for five awards by the Saskatchewan Country Music Awards.

She along with an upand-coming performer from Kelowna, B.C. did an acoustic bar gig April 13. This was on the rooftop of famous professional singer Miranda Lambert’s eating/

drinking establishment in downtown Nashville. An exciting part was that I got to sit with Shantaia’s parents, Al and Lana Poulin. I didn’t even know they were also in Tennessee. The concert was for three hours and it was fantastic. Both women sang their hearts out, performing many other artists’ songs and a couple of their own compositions. They drew in a large somewhat “wild” crowd on a sunny warm day.

Twenty-six-year-old Shantaia moved to Nashville four years ago. Her Saskatoon longtime boyfriend is in the process of moving there once his green card goes through. They plan to live in this fast-moving loud city for many years.

April 16, Shantaia got word that the final nominations for the SCMA have her nominated for

Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Registration

Light of Christ Catholic School Division and Living Sky School Division are accepting students into the Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Programs for the 2023-24 school year. Students must meet the following criteria:

Kindergarten:

Children who are five years old as of December 31, 2023

Pre-Kindergarten: Children must be 3 or 4 years of age at the time of application. Please see the LOCCSD website (www.loccsd.ca) or the LSKYSD website (www.lskysd.ca) for further Pre-K criteria.

Please contact your local school for registration details.

North Battleford Schools –Light of Christ Catholic Schools

Holy Family (Pre-K & K) 306-445-2360

St. Mary (Pre-K & K) 306-445-5152

Notre Dame (Pre-K & K) 306-445-0283

Ecole Monseigneur Blaise Morand 306-446-2167

French Immersion (K only)

North Battleford/Battleford Schools –Living Sky Schools

Battleford Central (Pre-K & K) 306-937-2112

Bready (K Only) 306-445-4954

Connaught (Pre-K & K) 306-445-3661

Heritage Christian School (K Only) 306-446-3188

Lawrence (Pre-K & K) 306-445-4944

McKitrick (Pre-K & K) 306-445-3851

St. Vital Catholic School (Pre K & K) 306-937-2233

She claims she was totally floored by this news, as in the past she has been nominated for two, but says five is unbelievable. She works with different bands and has put in many intense hours of hard work. Congratulations. You have made us all so proud of you, as an unknown prairie girl who is making it big in Nashville. Watch out for more exciting news about Shantaia.

Down the road from me in Nashville were former Rabbit Lake resident June Pauls and her daughter Carmen Lebiszczak of the Saskatoon area. They toured Memphis and area then travelled to the Grand Ole’ Opry in Nashville. I too was at the Grand Ole Opry. The late Loretta Lynn’s granddaughter, Emmy Russel, composed a touching song about Loretta on a guitar that was passed down to Emmy from her gramma. Other entertainers were the Gatlin Brothers, Jake Hoot, Suzy Bogguss and “spotlight artist” 66-year-old Crystal Gayle. This is an evening I will soon not forget. In the near future, I plan to tour more of Tennessee as I’ve met folks from that state who vacation in Arizona for the winter. Yes, Memphis is a high priority with Elvis Presley’s estate as a big tourist attraction.

A legally blind woman named Angel crocheted this large American flag that I purchased tickets for at a place where I volunteer. This is the Disabled American Veterans establishment not too far from my Yuma, Ariz. seniors’ trailer park. Angel also helps in the kitchen preparing meals and the only thing we don’t let her do is wash dishes because she can’t see if she has washed them clean. | Photos by Elaine Woloshyn

April is an awakening month as cacti, flowering shrubs and trees add colour to the drabby desert landscape.

50 Plus League Wraps Up

For more news local news, check out

Nashville from left to right. Elaine Woloshyn, the star Shantaia along with her parents Lana and Allan Poulin from Warman, Sask. (originally Spiritwood ) who moved when their daughter was 15 years old to Saskatoon. | Photo Courtesy Elaine Woloshyn

Prairie girl making it big in Nashville, country singer, and songwriter Shantaia

Poulin at the Casa Rosa Cantina Bar featuring Miranda Lambert’s establishment. | Photo by Elaine Woloshyn

North Battlefords Twin Rivers Curling Club wrapped up its season for the Carol Christopher 50 Plus League (which plays daytime hours on Thursdays) by awarding the winning trophy to the Wayne Scheible (skip) team made up of Dr. Ralph Hall (third), Cheryl Cey (second) and John Yarske (lead). The next season begins in early October. | Photo submitted

MARTICHENKO: John Martichenko was born 1935 in Sonningdale, Saskatchewan. He attended Sonningdale school until grade 8 and completed grade 12 at Spartan High School. Not wanting to farm, he packed his car and with his savings and $20 his father gave him moved to North Battleford. In 1955 he started training at the Saskatchewan Hospital and graduated as a Registered Psychiatric nurse. He later received a Diploma of Nursing from the University of Saskatchewan and taught nursing at SIAST. He moved to Canada Employment and Immigration as an employment counsellor retiring in 1990. John had varied interests throughout his life; golf, hunting, gardening, clock making, furniture refinishing and metal detecting are a few. He went to garage sales and sold on eBay. God and church were very important to John. Raised in the Mennonite faith, he was a member of the Apostolic Church of Canada (Living Faith Chapel) from 1957 until his death. He met his future wife Doreen at youth group. He married Doreen Delong in 1957 in North Battleford. Grandpa’s greatest joys were his grandsons: Christopher and Matthew. John will be remembered and missed by his wife of 65 years, Doreen Martichenko of North Battleford; one child and two grandchildren: Catherine Martichenko-Grilz (Perry Grilz) of Prince George BC and family – Christopher (Tanya Fearon) and Matthew of Prince George BC; two sisters and one brother: Dianne (Forbes) Edie, Ruby Sailor and Laurence Martichenko. He was predeceased by parents: Nick and Mary Martichenko; brothers: Isaac, Wilford, Frank, Edward, William, Alexander; sisters: Anne, Marion and Irene. John’s family and close friends will come together at his church to celebrate and remember his life. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemories funeral.ca. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium – Vanessa Macnab Funeral Director.

OBITUARIES

COOK: Robert Russell Cook, AKA “Cooker”, passed away on January 24, 2023 in Unity, SK. Rob is lovingly remembered by his partner, Shirley McConnell; and her children, Dylan McConnell and family Chloe and Declan McConnell, Jolie McConnell (Matt Keetch), Dave Willington and family Zoe, Jack Willington; his daughter Cara (Jason Fleischhacker) and family Cole, Connor, baby Owen; Sister Debbie (Bruce Allinott) Five nephews, and one niece. Rob was predeceased by his father Lloyd Cook, mother Rose Cook, sister Judy Brown, brother-in-law Richard Brown, sister Brenda Montelago, and brother-in-law Clint Halter. A Funeral Service for Rob will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 1:00PM at St. James RC Church in Wilkie, SK. Tributes for Rob may be made to the Jim Pattison’s Children’s Hospital Foundation. Cards may be directed to Shirley McConnell: Box 1075, Wilkie, SK, S0K 4W0. Arrangements entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service.

FUNERAL SERVICES

GALLOP: Gladys Gallop passed away April 18 at the age of 91 after a long battle with dementia. She is with her husband and son now. She leaves behind a son and daughter, many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be remembered fondly as a hard working loving woman. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to B.D.C.C. Rec.

FOR SALE - MISC

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-6491405 to find out how!

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 51 local community newspapers,

MORRISON: KENNETHROY MORRISONdiedpeacefullyin PalliativeCareatStPaul's HospitalinSaskatoonon February12,surroundedby familyandfriends.

Thefuneralwillbeheld Saturday,May20,2023,at1:00 pmattheWesternDevelopment Museum,Hwy40&Hwy16, NorthBattleford.

LANE: In loving memory of Edna Lane Nov 12/1931 - Oct 30/2022. A memorial service will be held at Living Faith Chapel, North Battleford Saturday April 29 at 2 p.m.

FOR SALE - MISC

WARD: Mrs. Mary Ward passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at the age of 94 years. Mom was a very kind person, not just to us, but to her chickens, milk cows and especially her garden. She was very proud of her family, in-laws included. She looked forward to a fourth generation coming. There was always an array of people in her house, sometimes they stayed years or days, depending on their need. There was always plenty of food on the table in case a neighbour dropped by at mealtime. She made the best Banana Cream Pies. She immigrated to Canada at the age of six, came by ship with just her mother, took trains to get to North Battleford. Life was hard for all in those years. Mom loved laughter, she loved to tease and joke, but don’t put her in the center of attention. She loved her life as a farmer’s wife, sooner being outside than inside. Her door was always open with the smell of home cooking. Mary is survived by her daughter, Donna Nash and her family: daughter, Tracie (Brad) Davies – children: Rebecca (Rian) Caffet, Wade Davies; son, Ryan Nash – children: Emma & Grace Nash; son, Wesley (Teal) Nash – children: Lincoln, Everhett & Kolt Nash; son, Raymond (Val) Ward and their family: daughter, Laurie (Sean) Tuffs – children: Josh (Taylor) Tuffs, Connor (Sara) Tuffs, daughter, Kandice (Trent) Pylypow – children: Boston, Braun & Brock Pylypow, son, Aaron (Amber) Ward – children: Mason & Jett Ward, daughter, Hali (Clayton) Drewlo – children: Emerson, Nikson & Cohen Drewlo. She is predeceased by her parents: Magdalina & Paul Lysycia; brother, Ujean Lysycia; husband, David Ward; daughter-in-law, Claudette Ward; son-inlaw, Ted Nash; mother & father-in-law: Ted & Pearl Ward; brothers-in-law: Orest & Bob Ward; sister-in-law, Pauline Cadrain; special cousin, George Mysel. Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. held at the Glaslyn Community Hall. Interment will follow at the Marlin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be directed to the Edam Enriched Manor or the Lady Minto Health Care Centre. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium – Elle Dell Funeral Director.

Kenissurvivedandlovingly rememberedbydaughters Cheryl(Tom)PfeiferandLynn (Salil)Gupta;sonBob(Andrea) Morrison;grandchildrenMaxwell andAnnikaPfeifer,Sarikand DiyaGuptaandBrantMorrison;sister-in-lawGiseleMorrison; brothers-in-lawMervin(Kareen)Borgeson,Norman(Suzette) Borgeson,Don(Marsha)Borgeson,Bob(Connie)Borgesonand Kurt(Debbie)Borgeson;friendJeanPawlus;andnumerous cousins,nieces,nephews,andfriends.

Hewaspredeceasedbyhislovingwifeof35years,Myrtle (Borgeson,2000);brotherJim(2022);parentsAlice(Ward)and RoyMorrison;andparents-in-lawAnne(Gabruch)andArnie Borgeson.

Inlieuofflowers,donationsinKen'smemorymaybemadetothe BattlefordsHumaneSociety.

CondolencesforthefamilymaybeleftatSallows&MacDonald, Wilson&ZehnerFuneralhome.

KOPP: It is with sadness the family announces the passing of Mr. Gary Kopp on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the age of 77 years. Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at St. Vital Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Father Sebastian Kunnath as celebrant. Gary’s memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife, Bernice of almost 56 years; his children and their families: son, Dwaine (Carolyn) Kopp - Jake (Ashlie) Kopp, great grandchildren: Lincoln and Reylin, Jonah (Breanna) Kopp; daughter, Shannon (Jim) Powell – Spencer (Lauren Keall) Powell; sister, Hazel (Wilbert) Volk; numerous nieces and nephews. Gary was greeted in heaven by his parents: Frank and Cecelia Kopp; father-in-law Pete Frehlich; sisters, Shirley Borschneck and Gloria Mitzel; brothers-in-law: Albert Borschneck and Jerome Mitzel; nephew Alan Volk and great nephew, Riley Volk. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are gratefully requested to the BUH Foundation Box 1358 North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & CrematoriumTrevor Watts Funeral Director

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.

FUNERAL SERVICES

IN MEMORIAM

InLovingMemoryof NicoHawryliw

January16,1992-April30,2011

Andwhenthestreamthat overflowshaspassed,a consciousnessremainsupon thesilentshoreofmemory; imagesandprecious thoughtsthatshallnotbe andcannotbedestroyed.

-W.Wordsworth Missingyoualways, Mom,Dad,Jane,Mitchand gangwhoarewaitingto meetthisUncleNicothey haveheardsomuchabout!

In Memoriam for ANGIE GARDINER

February 26, 1947 to April 28, 2022

You are missed by so many people. You touched the lives of so many over the years. You are so fondly remembered by all who met you and received your kindness. Angie was a dedicated nurse in the Battlefords and had a zest for life. She volunteered for many organizations and was especially committed to Northwest Hockey, the Canadian Legion, and the Lamb family. We miss you dear lady!

Brian, your family and your many friends.

Leonard Loewen .................................North Battleford

Marilyn Remeshylo .............................North Battleford

Douglas Prescesky ........................................Maymont

Raymond (Ray) Desmarais ................North Battleford

Ricky Hon Wai Cheung .................................Battleford

Donna Hickson ...................................North Battleford

Lana Hickson ......................................North Battleford

Charlotte Lahti .....................................North Battleford

Walter T. Nelson ...................................North Battleford

Al Gotto ................................................North Battleford

Dr. Iain Weston ....................................North Battleford

Dean Williams ......................................North Battleford

Jacquelyne Byers ................................North Battleford

Jimmy Dean Pollard ............................................Edam

David W. Shury ..............................................Battleford

Dennis Higgs .......................................North Battleford

WANTED

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

HEALTH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NoticetoCreditors

IntheestateofKellyDavislateofSt Walburg,Saskatchewan,deceased. Allclaimsagainsttheaboveestate, dulyverifiedbystatutorydeclaration andwithparticularsandvaluationof securityheld,ifany,mustbesentto theundersignedbeforethe4thday ofMay,2023. Christopher Davis Henrythe12@icloud.com

LIVESTOCK

Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 year old bulls.

-Adrian Edwards 306-441-0946 Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

HEALTH SERVICES

HIP/KNEE

Replacement?

Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING?

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

Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide! Providing assistance during Covid.

Expert Help: 1-844-453-5372

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE of GERALD DAVID MILLHOUSE, late of Cutknife, Saskatchewan, deceased.

ALL CLAIMS against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 25th day of May, 2023.

Matrix Law Group 1421 101st Street North Battleford

Saskatchewan S9A 1A1

Lawyers for the Executor

Attention: Jaylyn E. Lawrence

HOUSES FOR SALE

Battleford

Local 106

WR 1 - A

2023 AGM Meeting will be held May 31st, 2023

6:30 p.m. • 960 - 103rd Street North Battleford

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

Application for Re: Liquor Permit

Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997, Notice is hereby given that Rick's Place Restaurant Ltd. has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) for a permit to sell alcohol in the premises known as Battleford Pizza and Donairs at 1821 100th Street, North Battleford SK, S9A0X1

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.

Charitable #13936 3626 RR0001

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society

Turn

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll

Rural Municipality of Douglas No. 436

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Rural Municipality of Douglas No. 436 for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Assessor of the municipality, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday inclusive, May 1, 2023 to May 31, 2023; excluding holidays.

A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of the Municipalities Act has been passed and theassessment notices 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 $200.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, by the 31 Day of May, 2023, to:

Mike Ligtermoet

Secretary of the Board of Revision

Nor Sask Board Services

642 Agnew Street

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan S6V 2P1

Dated at Speers, Saskatchewan this 27 day of April, 2023.

Darrin Beaudoin, Assessor

Rural Municipality of Douglas No. 436 P.O. Box 964, Speers, Sask. S0M 2V0 306-246-2171

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 objection(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds, and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number. Frivolous, vexatious or competition 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 Gaming Authority Box 5054 REGINA SK S4P 3M3

Dated at North Battleford, Saskatchewan, this 20th day of April, 2022.

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Village of Ruddell

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Ruddell for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection by contacting the Assessor of the municipality at 306-827-7874 or by emailing darrinbeaudoin@ gmail.com for an appointment, on the following days Monday and Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from May 1, 2023 to May 31, 2023; excluding statutory holidays.

A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of the Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices 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 $100.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, by the 31 Day of May, 2023, to:

Mike Ligtermoet

Secretary of the Board of Revision

Nor Sask Board Services 642 Agnew Street Prince Albert, Saskatchewan S6V 2P1

Dated at Speers, Saskatchewan this 27 day of April, 2023.

Darrin Beaudoin, Assessor

Village of Ruddell

P.O. Box 7, Ruddell, Sask. S0M 2S0 306-246-2171

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!

FEED & SEED

AGPRO SEEDS LTD. BUYING

HEATED, DAMAGED OFFGRADE CANOLA & FEED GRAINS. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! Call/text: 306-8730481, AgPro Seeds bids: agproseeds.com, Email: sales@agproseeds.com

FEED & SEED

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN

SPRING THRASHED

WHEAT... OATS

PEAS... BARLEY

CANOLA... FLAX

“ON FARM PICKUP”

WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN

1-877-250-5252

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

RESORT VILLAGE OF METINOTA NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Resort Village of Metinota for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday May 1 to May 30, 2023 (excluding 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 who wishes to appeal against their assessment is required to file their notice of appeal with:

Mike Ligtermoet, Secretary to the Board of Revision

c/o PO Box 47 Meota, SK S0M1X0

The appeal fee of $150.00 per property must accompany the appeal and be addressed to the Resort Village of Metinota.

Dated in North Battleford, SK this 27th day of April, 2023.

Carmen Menssa Assessor

AUCTIONS

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Join

Upcoming Sales:

MAY 6TH – Donald & Jean Burdick –Farm Sale – Cookson @ 10:00 am

Directions from Shellbrook: 5 kms North on Highway 55 to Canwood turnoff- then 35 kms on Highway 240 North, from Cookson Sign –1 km North. Watch for signs

2750 JD Front Wheel Assist Tractor/ 245 JD Loader, JD 665 Skid Steer, 3788 IH Tractor, Vehicles, Shop, Tools, Yard, Harness, Vintage, Household & Misc items

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

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

FEED & SEED

CERTIFIED SEED

Wheat

AAC Goodwin, Go EArly, PintAil Oats AC JuniPEr, AC MorGAn, AC MustAnG, dErby CdC so1 suPEr oAt Barley Ab stAndswEll, CErvEzA CdC AustEnson, CdC MAvEriCk, sundrE Peas vEry EArly yEllow, ForAGE PEAs, Polish CAnolA, sPrinG tritiCAlE mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609

LAND FOR SALE

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

FARM SERVICES

PASTURELANDFORLEASE

TheRuralMunicipalityofHillsdale No.440invitessealedcashtenders forafive(5)yearleaseonthe followingparcelofpastureland:

SE9-46-23W3M

Highestbidnotnecessarily accepted.Mustremainingood standing.Prospectivelesseemust assesswateravailability&fencing requirements.Beforeleasewillbe offeredanagreementandpayment forimprovementsmustbepaidto previouslessee. Lesseeisresponsibleforpayment ofpropertytaxes.

SealedTendersmustbesubmitted by4:00pmMay3,2023.

MarkedasSE9-46-23W3M

PastureLeaseTenderandmaybe mailedtoBox280,Neilburg,SK S0M2C0,deliveredtoourofficeat 39L.E.GibbonsCentreSt. Neilburg,SKorEmailedto rm440@sasktel.net(emailscannot beguaranteeconfidentiality,bids receivedafterMay3,2023,4:00 p.m.willberejected.)

Tenderopeningwillbeat11:30am, Thursday,May4,2023 Questionscall306-823-4321

MAY at The Club

Spring is nature’s way of saying: “Let’s celebrate!”

MAY your month be filled with happiness and inspiration as brighter and warmer days are upon us!

2023 Memberships are still available for members! Valid Membership Forms are required for kids to attend, and forms are available at our office and online through www.bcgbattlefords.ca! Make sure to sign your kids up- all our Special Programs and events are FREE for ALL MEMBERS. The $5 annual membership fee can be paid in person during our office hours or by sending an e-transfer to payments@bgcb.ca. To know more, visit our website.

Summer is coming and we have some GOOD NEWS! - Our highly anticipated (and attended) Summer Adventure Day Camps are NOW OPEN FOR REGISTRATION!

Starting July 3rd (concluding August 25th), we will be offering 8 weeks of SUMMER FUN for our members 5-14 years of age. The hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 5:30pm and breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack are provided at NO EXTRA CHARGE!

$150/week or $50/day. Our weekly themes and weekly field trips will be announced on our social media pages and on our website, so stay tuned for that!

This year, we have LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE, so register your child(ren) NOW! For more information, check out our website: www.bgcbattlefords.ca.

May 1st – 7th is Mental Health Week. BGC Battlefords encourages everyone to spread kindness, check in on your loved ones and practice self-care and love. Mental health- lets talk about it!

As a reminder, our office and programming are CLOSED on Saturday, May 20th and Monday, May 22nd for Victoria Day.

What’s Happening in May:

- May 7th – National Child and Youth Mental Health Day

- Bear Witness Day

- May 8th – It’s a Non-School Day! Just a reminder that our office and programming are open, even on non-school days! Programming runs at our Main Site from 7:30 am to 5:30pm. Breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are provided at NO EXTRA COST! Pre-registration is not required for members.

- May 14th - Mother’s Day. BGC Battlefords celebrates all the mothers and those mothering our members and the whole community.

- May 17th - Early Dismissal Day, all programming starts after class dismissal. - International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

- May 20th & 22nd – Office and all programming are closed for Victoria Day.

DROP-IN PROGRAM: Become a member now! For all kids ages 5 to 14 years of age, operating Monday to Friday from class dismissal-8:30pm and Saturdays from 1:00pm-4:00pm. Nutritious snacks, supper and evening snacks are included at no extra charge. Visit our website (www.bgcbattlefords.ca) to register!

- Innovation Credit Union Saturday Program is every Saturday and will be running throughout this month except for Saturday, May 20th. ICU Saturday Program is from 1:00-4:00pm (a hearty snack is provided). Membership forms can be found on our website at www.bgcbattlefords.ca. Can’t attend in person? Don’t forget to stop by the Club to pick up your ICU Saturday Program @ Home kit!

- Memberships are only $5, and this ensures that you have access to our Drop-in Program and all Special Programs! Remember, Special Programs are FREE OF CHARGE for our members.

- Valid Membership Forms are required. If you haven’t updated your child’s form, do so NOW!

Satellite Site Before & After School Programs are open Monday to Friday (excluding STAT Holidays). Available at Bready, EMBM (Before & After School Programs) and Holy Family Schools (After School Program) on school days. These programs are registration-based, fee-for-service. For more information, head on over to www.bgcbattlefords.ca.

Special Programs are in progress, stay tuned on our social media accounts for announcements of our upcoming programs!

- Guitar Program – May 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th (program FULL).

- 2BBoys & Girl Power – May 3rd, 10th & 24th (no registrations needed).

- For more information on our Special Programs, here’s our Special Programs page link: www.bgcbattlefords.ca/our-programs/special-programs/ Do you have extra recyclables that need to go to Sarcan but do not want to stand in line? Consider donating your recyclables to BGC Battlefords. We have registered for Drop and GO service. Just enter our phone number (3064450002) and follow the directions to get your tags. It is quick and easy and goes to a great cause!

As a reminder, our school year hours of operation are as follows:

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

- Before School Programs: 7:30am – 8:30am (Bready & EMBM)

- After School Programs: Class dismissal – 5:30pm (Bready, EMBM & Holy Family)

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

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Terms of payment; Interact Debit, Cash, or Cheque with ID. Boechler-Schira

Auctioneering does not charge buyers fee on items sold at our sales

Check our Website and Facebook page for sale details

Call Kelly @ 306-386-7110 or Marlene @ 306-883-8610

www.boechlerschiraauction.com

You never know what you’ll find inside. 306-445-7261

Continue to watch our Facebook page (BGCBattlefords), Instagram @bgcbattlefords and website (www.bgcbattlefords.ca) for more updates. Opportunity Changes Everything

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

Young leaders discuss future of dairy

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS & LABOURERS WANTED

For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc.

Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d.

Send resume and work references to:

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

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

By Chloe Knoor

(Chloe Knorr is a Maidstone student attending Lakeland College and an employee at Delta Dairy just outside of Maidstone.)

During the week of April 11 to 16, I had the opportunity to attend the Young Leader Convention (YLC) which was a part of the National Holstein Convention held in Montreal, Quebec this year.

I met many industry members along with fellow young producers of the dairy industry from British Columbia to Prince Edward Island. Over the week, I attended presentations that explained more in-depth the future of farming through genet-

TOWN OF RADISSON

The Maintenance 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 include:

• Valid Class 3A Driver’s License

• Class 1 Water Distribution and Treatment Certification or willing to obtain, • Experience operating heavy equipment such as graders, loaders etc

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

Email: tradisson@sasktel.net | 1 (306) 827-2218

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 at Fisher's Drug Store by: Phone: 306-445-6153 Fax: 306-445-7114

email: fishersdrugstore@sasktel.net

ics, conformation and herd health management. They provided the young leaders with practical learning opportunities to give us a better understanding of classifying in the dairy industry and why things are measured the way they are.

I attended the spring show held in Victoriaville where we had the opportunity to examine the animals on our own, discuss the cows with our peers and individually judge the animals before the judge made his final decision. This was interesting as I got to hear about others’ reasoning behind why one cow was preferred.

During the show, I was able to walk through stalls and see multiple family lines along with comparing those that had the same sire, seeing if they had similar qualities to one another and which sires would be options to use on the farm among the Jerseys and Holsteins.

Coming from a mostly Jersey farm, it was interesting to see what a judge looked for in qualities and

I was able to get a close-up picture of the grand champion Jersey, Enniskillen Joel Marygold of Pierre Boulet Inc.

I toured three farms, Ferme Estermann, Ferme Montcalm & Freres and the MacDonald College Farm, all of which milked differently and worked in their way to properly manage their farms.

I also attended an annual general meeting, experiencing the format and pace of the meeting along with being able to vote on

North West College

new resolutions brought forth since the last meeting. I was able to see how they were either passed or declined and the voting process, which the young leaders also got to take part in. We went to the Habs vs Bruins game in Montreal during my week there and the enthusiasm for both teams was amazing, but the conversations going on about cows and producers’ farms while waiting for the game to start showed the number of people who came to Montreal for both.

Full-Time, Permanent Adult Basic Education Coordinator

Battlefords Campus

Posting #93-BC-2223

Are you a lifelong learner with a firm belief that educational opportunities should be available to everyone? Our clients come to us with a desire to improve the opportunities for themselves, their families and communities. As the Adult Basic Education Coordinator, you will be an essential part of their journey.

This position is based on the beautiful Battlefords Campus,

As the Coordinator, you would oversee the development, delivery and promotion of Adult Basic Education programs within the Battlefords and area.

Starting wage: $5,489.25 monthly; with an excellent benefits package

For a complete position profile, and application, visit: www.northwestcollege.ca

Applications will be accepted until Monday, May 8, 2023 at noon www.northwestcollege.ca

R.M. OF MEDSTEAD NO. 497 SEASONAL MAINTENANCE/EQUIPMENT OPERATOR POSITION

The R.M. of Medstead No. 497 invites applications for an experienced full time Seasonal Maintenance/Equipment Operator. The Seasonal Maintenance/Equipment Operator will be responsible for mowing this municipality’s ditches, rock picking, mulching in conjunction with the grader operators, installing and repairing signs and other jobs as directed by the Reeve. Opportunity may be present in the future to move into a grader operator position. Pay rates depending on experience.

The R.M. of Medstead No. 497 is located in central Saskatchewan located approximately forty five minutes north of North Battleford. Applicants must possess a valid Class 5 driver’s license and have skill and experience in maintenance and operation of equipment including tractor, mower, rock picker and mulcher.

Submit written resumes stating experience, expected wage, two references and a current driver’s abstract. Deadline closes once the position is filled. All resumes shall be marked “Seasonal Maintenance/Equipment Operator Position” and dropped off at the RM Office, mailed to the address below or emailed to rm497@sasktel.net.

R.M. of Medstead No. 497 Box 12 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

Council thanks all applicants for their interest in this position but only persons selected for interviews will be contacted.

The R.M. of Medstead No. 497 reserves the right to reject and refuse any or all expressions of interest.

A close-up picture of the grand champion Jersey, Enniskillen Joel Marygold of Pierre Boulet Inc. | Photocourtesy Chloe Knorr

Conga Line Inspiration

Maidstone and District News

Bowling wraps up season, awards presented

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

Condolences are extended to the family of Frances “Bobbie” McDougall (nee Oddan) who passed away at Maidstone Health Complex April 16 at the age of 95. A celebration of life for Bobbie was conducted from Three Links Hall in Marshall Monday, April 24.

We received an email from Carrie and Jeff Walter extending deep appreciation to those of you who have reached out and offered support to help them and their children, Waylon, and Jessie, Jack and Eric Cutsforth, as they cope with the loss of their home and belongings. You have all made this time a little easier. Thank you!

Maidstone High School Drama Club outdid themselves at the dessert and dinner theatres April 19 and 20. I attended Thursday evening when 110 guests savoured a delicious meal served up by Jackie Wright and Tillie Bert followed by an outstanding performance of the comedy, “The Empty

Toolbox.” Cast, crew and directors deserve the accolades and Best Virtual Production award earned at the regional competition.

Students and staff at Ratushniak Elementary and Maidstone High Schools experienced an uplifting presentation by Chris Gray, a renowned inspirational speaker and a famous wrestler.

He, in turn, was impressed that “every student at every grade level was extraordinarily kind, generous and responsible,” and he said he thoroughly enjoyed his last stop in Saskatchewan before heading home.

The Grade 8/9 classes welcomed MP Rosemarie Falk for a discussion on how government works and her experience as a Member of Parliament, an informative talk and excellent interaction with the students.

Congratulations to junior badminton players who took part in the Grade 8 Invitational in Lloydminster, with Brooke and Andrew winning gold, and Gwen and Alexis taking

bronze.

On Sunday, some of Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club’s members participated in 4-H regional judging in Lloydminster.

A big congratulations to Isabelle for winning at the intermediate level, Olivia for placing in the top three in three of her classes and Jayce for placing in his bull’s class.

Maidstone Museum is getting ready for June 1 opening. Help with yard and building clean-up is needed on April 29 and 30 between 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Even an hour of your time eases the load. If you can help, please message Eileen Anderson on Facebook or leave a message on the museum phone 306-893-2890.

Maidstone Bowling (Submitted by Shannon Whitney)

Maidstone Bowling extends a huge thank you to everyone who came to the wind-up last Saturday evening. The food was awesome and the people were even better. Business league winners were CMT Consulting (Chris/Miranda Zerr, Melissa/Aaron/

Kyla Paton, spare Stacey).

The skunked business team was a “Bunch of Degenerates” (James Croke, Jaydon Winter, Kyle McNeil, Kaden Gallon). YBC award winners were Noah, Jack, Ben, Jaxsen, Cohen, Will and Bennett for Beat the Coach. Jaxsen graduates from YBC this year and is on to broader horizons at Lakeland in Power Engineering. The high-low doubles tournament ran for four weeks just before league finished up with winners Linda Leir and Hummer. Wind-up winners were: door prize Melissa Paton; 50/50 Barry Ponto’ 26-ounce Boone, bowler’s basket Jason Wakefield; $100 pharmacy gift card Pauline Duhaime; and $75 jerky basket Kent Sayers. Congratulations to all and we’ll see you in the fall.

Reminders:

April 29 - Maidstone Legion Club Room Cornhole Tournament (club room closed April 30 to October)

April 29 - Waseca Recreation Board Fish Fry and Online Auction

April 30 - Bloomer’s

Greenhouse (Maidstone)

2023 opening day

May 6 - Girl Guides Bottle Drive (Saturday).

Fill out the online form

or call 306-441-7571 for pick-up.

May 6 - Waseca Spring Market and Garage Sales 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Maidstone bowler Jaxsen Rowlands graduates from the program this year.

Maidstone Bowling business league winners were CMT Consulting. | Photos courtesy Shannon Whitney

A group of Bromantics fans were stirred to their feet at the Bromantics April 21 concert at the Dekker Centre in North Battleford, forming an impromptu conga line on-stage to the bands’ surprise.

Tim Lynchuk, lead vocalist for the Bromantics.

Tim Lynchuk looks up at lead drummer Justin Hauck during their April 21 concert at the Dekker Centre. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

Borden event looks back on flood of 2013

By Lorraine Olinyk

Correspondent

Winners at the last bingo of the season for the Borden Friendship Club were Anne Palmer (2), Myla Johnson, Sandra Long (2), Lorraine Olinyk, Elaine Gunsch and John Derosier. The $20 blackout was won by Gerry Wainwright. Winning consolation prizes for ties were Dianne Rawlyk, Deb Matte and Elaine Gunsch. The Radisson Seniors’ Club will be holding bingo May 2 and June 6 at 7 p.m. at the Goodrich Centre.

The Borden Lions

April 20 Chase the Ace draw winner was Marilyn Tallmadge of Langham

and the ace of Spades was not drawn so the jackpot keeps on growing. At Borden Library, the new librarian is Maryann McKay. Coming up in May will be Lego Club for all school-aged kids. The club is held every Thursday from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. May 4, 11, 18 and 25, also June 1 and 8 before winding down for the season. The preschool storytime is Thursdays from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. — April 27, May 11 and 26. The Borden Dance Club are holding their recital Saturday, April 29 at 7 p.m. in the Borden Community Centre. The Borden Farmers Market will be soon preparing for their opening

May 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Seniors’ Room in the Borden Community Centre.

As this is the 35th anniversary of the market, cake will be served and there will be free draws that day. For the rest of the summer, the market will be on every Friday at those hours until October, so come out and meet some new vendors and drop in for a hot dog and pie lunch.

The Borden Museum and the Village of Borden held a Remembering the Flood of 2013 Night April 22. The table decorations included mini sandbags, along with flood photos on placemats and on the walls. Displayed were lists

Photos

of volunteers and placards proclaiming “Thanks to all Volunteers.” The emcee for the evening was Tom Redhead who first thanked

the museum board for the great meal then had Karen Kerr come up to make presentations.

A Sask Culture 2022

Volunteer

Continued on Page 19

Above left, Borden Museum president Karen Kerr presents a volunteer certificate to Ed Neufeld. Right, Karen Kerr with second place junior essay winner Carson Elliot. |

by Lorraine Olinyk

Certificate was presented to Ed Neufeld for his volunteer work at the museum.

Borden and District News

Continued from Page 18

Winners of an essay challenge for Borden School students were announced. The museum had the students interview seniors who had lived here most of their lives and reminisce about their early years. A total of 61 essays were handed in. Earning recognition were (in order of first, second third):

Juniors — Alleyuh St. Denis, Carson Elliot third Oliver Hosegood with honourable mention to Anton and Brielle Urbina; Seniors — Abby Orchard and honourable mentions to Berkley Burletoff and Alexandria Orchard.

Tom asked some trivia questions about the flood. How many pumps were used? Eleven but one blew up with 100,000 litres

of diesel fuel used. How many sandbags filled? A total of 49,000.

Other facts: the village paid back the $83,000 cost borrowed in three years; the total cost was $1.08 million but most was refunded from other levels of government.

Speakers were Jamie Brandrick, mayor of Borden now and a councillor back then, David Buckingham, MLA but the mayor at the time, Gary Nickel, reeve of RM of Great Bend but councillor in 2013, and Ian Wainwright, fire chief. Each speaker told of their experiences during the flood, expressing gratitude for the volunteers back then. Many volunteers came from surrounding towns and RMs, even Saskatoon. They noted

how the community came together.

Scott Sutherland was thanked especially as he came in at all hours with heavy equipment. They spoke of the temporary bridges built, Ian’s ferry service and the food that was provided. The Community Centre was open 24/7 from April 30 to May 10.

Peter Thiessen also spoke of his memories of the flood as he provided village maintenance then. He spotlighted the fire departments locally and from surrounding towns.

A slide show set up by Heather Deck was narrated by Heather Penner and she described each slide as it was shown.

Tom Redhead auctioned off two art items. Polished rock art painted

The Cotton Picker Quilters Club of Radisson have been busy from the first of October to the last week in April. They have made 80 or more quilts throughout the year. Depicted is a sample, as they have already given many to needy people.

| Photo submitted

by George Walker and his sister Doreen brought in $230. A George Hynde painting of a street in Borden in the 1940s depicting

horses and a sleigh load of logs, elevators, buildings and a church sold for $400. Thanks to all who

attended to help celebrate National Volunteer Week and to remember all the volunteers on this 10th anniversary of the flood.