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Thursday, December 17, 2020
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Downtown Battleford Alight
Located in the middle of downtown Battleford is Historic Battleford Lions Park, a lot featuring lawn, flowerbeds, a gazebo and picnic tables, all with a backdrop of conifers. Last year, a project initiated by a young resident, Avery Donahue, who recruited grandparents and the local Community Spirit Group, saw the stringing of lights throughout the trees to add to a festive feeling in downtown Battleford. The Lions, this year, have seen to the lighting of the gazebo as well. COVID-19 restrictions meant no official light up gathering like last year’s, but the display is there for all to enjoy. Photo by Averil Hall
Looking to the 2021 tax year
North Battleford passes one per cent budget By John Cairns Staff Reporter
As expected, the 2021 budget was been adopted in North Battleford Monday at the last regular council meeting of 2020. The 2021 budget includes a one per
cent property tax increase with that revenue being applied to capital, and a zero increase for utilities and UPAR. It was a lengthy evening, with a number of resolutions passed related to the discussions at last
week’s budget deliberations. Council held four nights of budget deliberations in total between Dec. 3 to 10, and the resolutions passed on Monday went along the same lines as what had been discussed, with no new surprises.
The resolutions passed Monday are as follows: The first called for the reduced amount of requested funds from both the transit and Handi-bus systems to be transferred towards the purchase of a new Handi-Bus. That was
carried. A second resolution called for the amount of $10,000 (included in the budget due to COVID-19) to be applied to grant requests of Concern for Youth and Midwest Food Resources, and further that
follow-up be made with Midwest Food Resources in reducing their grant request. Midwest Food Resources had initially requested $5,830, but Director of Finance Steve Brown Continued on Page 2
proved as presented Monday at town council, with all members of council voting in favour. The meeting was held live at the Alex Dillabough Centre in Battleford. Council had previously gone through the budget on Nov. 23 and Nov. 30.
At the latest meeting, all the department heads presented the budgets for their departments one by one. The final discussions Monday went smoothly and there were no outstanding issues to deal with, as council liked what they saw in the budget pre-
sented by administration. There are a number of capital items included for 2021. A big item is paving and curbing on 1st Avenue from Campbell Innes Way to Battle Springs Drive for $284,000. A new sidewalk on the east side of 2nd Avene from
17th to 19th Streets will also go ahead for $85,000. Also going ahead is purchase of a tandem gravel truck for $158,000, asphalt walking trails for $100,000, campground sites servicing for $65,000, the Riverbend drainage project for $66,000,
$60,000 for miscellaneous smaller equipment, $32,000 for the columbarium at the cemetery, and $20,000 for sidewalk repair. The town is also saving in 2021 for future spending on several other projects Continued on Page 2
Battleford taxpayers will see zero increase By John Cairns Staff Reporter
The 2021 budget is done in Battleford, with council approving a zero percent increase for both general operations and utilities on Monday night. The budget was ap-
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Page 2 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
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Justice clock ticking in Onion Lake murder case By Lisa Joy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist
Marvin Stanley – accused of killing Conrad Mooswa of Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation – has had his scheduled Nov. 23 preliminary hearing adjourned and now his Dec.
8 appearance adjourned. The case was adjourned to Feb. 12, 2021, to speak to the matter in Lloydminster Provincial Court. Stanley, 28, was arrested 14 months ago. The Supreme Court ruled, in 2016, that court cases must be heard within 18 months in provincial court and 30
months in superior court. If they aren’t, the case could be thrown out of court. The COVID-19 pandemic has created delays and a backlog in Saskatchewan’s court system. Mooswa’s murder in October 2019 - along with the murders of Braden Bull and Braeden Sparvier in
of Little Pine First Nation was found on Onion Lake Cree Nation Jan. 21, 2020. Sparvier’s body was found Jan. 1, 2020, along a road in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte, which borders Onion Lake Cree Nation. “The Nation has now experienced three deaths directly related to drugs
January 2020 - led Onion Lake Cree Nation to declare a state of emergency in January 2020. T h i r t y-t wo -yea r- old Mooswa’s body was found Oct. 23, 2019, at a residence on Onion Lake Cree Nation. EMS declared him deceased at the scene. The body of Bull, 32,
and gang activity within the last two months, along with numerous high speed chases and violent crimes,” Onion Lake Cree Nation said in their Jan. 24, 2020 release when declaring a state of emergency. The charges against Stanley haven’t been proven in court.
Mirasty sentencing adjourned to the new year By John Cairns Staff Reporter
The sentencing of Keenan Mirasty for manslaughter has been pushed back to the new year. The sentencing had been scheduled for Dec. 16 in North Battleford provincial court. Mirasty’s lawyer Michael Nolin indicat-
ed in his court appearance, however, that he had just taken over the file from Don MacKinnon who has gone on leave from Legal Aid, and that he was not prepared to proceed that morning. The Crown did not oppose the adjournment. Judge Dan O’Hanlon indicated that he was inclined
to adjourn the sentencing anyway given that four people had wished to appear for the sentencing hearing, but were unable to attend. The matters for Mirasty have been adjourned to Jan. 18 at 11 a.m., in Court-
306.634.9556
tions the courtroom was closed to the public. Mirasty’s own attendance was waived for this particular court date. Mirasty had previously entered a guilty plea in October for unlawfully causing the death of
Sequin Mooswa in North Battleford on March 8 — thereby committing manslaughter. A stay of proceedings was entered by the Crown on Mirasty’s second-degree murder charge from that date.
North Battleford - one per cent Continued from Page 1 confirmed Monday that their ask was now down to $3,000. The grant towards Concern for Youth was for $5,000. The third resolution challenged Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts to come up with $7,390 in efficiencies. That was carried. A fourth resolution called for the updating of the budget to enable inclusion of the CSO deputy commander position into the budget. That was car-
This paper is proudly printed locally in Estevan.
room 1 North Battleford to be spoken to. A new sentencing date will likely be set at that time. The latest court appearance in North Battleford took place via phone conference call, and due to the latest COVID-19 restric-
ried; as well, further discussion on the program would happen in the new year at council. The next resolution called for the deferral of the parks and recreation capital budget projects of the upgrades at Allen Sapp Gallery and outdoor seniors fitness equipment.
That was also carried. Also carried was a resolution that any remaining Municipal Economic Enhancement Program funding be used to purchase a trailer at the Waste Management Facility in the amount of $30,000. The next resolutions were the biggest ones: the
first one called for a one percent property tax increase to be transferred to the capital reserve of the budget. That was carried. The final resolution called for the 2021 budget as presented by administration and amended by council to be adopted. That was carried unanimously.
Battleford - zero per cent
Continued from Page 1 On the utilities side the new water well at $150,000 PARKS AND RECREATION including cemetery major project for 2021 is and an emergency backup Helmetsexpansion, Recommended playground completion of the sewer generator at the Water Plant for and park equipment, lagoon project that began Treatment replacement of the town in 2020. The total cost is $180,000. ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE Additional saving will garbage truck, Tot Lot dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ $7.3 million and the town’s Treaty Six Territory | Saskatchewan | Canada upgrades, a new cold ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ portion is $3.4 million. happen for future projects West Hockey December 20 1:30 – 3:30building, pm lift station storage the ⚫ North According to Development the budget including Lions Club December 21 1:30 pm building ⚫⚫ Bonaventure upgrades, water meter public– 3:30 works document about $700,000 North Battleford Kinsmen Club Battleford Lions roof –replacement, and ⚫ North in work is left toClub go with a data collection equipment, December 22 10:00 1:00 pm North Battleford date Elks Club large –scale and ⚫ completion of June of wells raw water intake December 23 1:30 3:30 upgrades pm ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 line upgrades and a truck expansion at Battleford 2021. ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords December 24 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ Rotary Club of the Battlefords replacement. Arena. Other projects include a PARKS AND RECREATION December 27 12:00 –2:00pm PARKS PARKS AND AND RECREATION RECREATION PARKS AND RECREATION ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 PARKS RECREATION PARKS PARKS PARKSAND AND AND AND RECREATION RECREATION RECREATION December 28 2:30 – 3:30 pm PARKS AND RECREATION Helmets Recommended Helmets Recommended Helmets Helmets Helmets Recommended Recommended Recommended December 29 1:30 – 3:30 pm Visit www.newsoptimist.ca Helmets Recommended
PARKS AND RECREATION
⚫ Masks are mandatory in the facility ets Recommended December 30 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 Follow Battlefords News-Optimist on Facebook ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ ⚫ Maximum Spectators = 30 December 31 12:00 – 2:00pm ACCESS ACCESS COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION CENTRE CENTRE CENTRE ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE ACCESS ACCESS COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION CENTRE CENTRE ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ ACCESS dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ MUNICATION CENTRE ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, except if dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ and @TheNewsOptimist on Twitter ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ members are from the same household Helmets Helmets HelmetsRecommended Recommended Recommended
North West Hockey Development ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ December 20 1:30 – 3:30⚫pm North West Hockey⚫Development December 20 1:30 3:30 pm ⚫ ⚫ ⚫North North North West West West Hockey Hockey Hockey Development Development Development December 1:30 ––– 3:30 pm December December 20 20 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pmpm ⚫ North West Hockey Development December 20 20 1:30 –– 3:30 pm ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club ⚫ ⚫ ⚫North North North West West West Hockey Hockey Hockey Development Development Development ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club December December 20 20 1:30 1:30 ––West 3:30 3:30 pm December 21 1:30 – 3:30 ⚫ North Hockey Development 1:30December – 3:30 pm ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club ⚫ ⚫pm Bonaventure Bonaventure Lions Lions Club Club ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club 21 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ Lions North Battleford Kinsmen Club December ––– 3:30 December December 21 21 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ Bonaventure Bonaventure Bonaventure Lions Lions Club Club Club December 21 21 1:301:30 –⚫3:30 pmpm PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED ⚫ Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫ ⚫North North North Battleford Battleford Kinsmen Kinsmen Club Club Bonaventure Lions Club ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫ North Battleford Lions Club December December 21 21 1:30 1:30 ––1:00 3:30 3:30 pm pm December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm 1:30December – 3:30 pm22 22 ⚫ North Battleford Lions Club 10:00 1:00 pm ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ North North NorthLions Battleford Battleford Battleford Kinsmen Kinsmen Kinsmen Club Club Club ⚫ Battleford Lions Club ⚫ ⚫North North North Battleford Battleford Lions Lions Club Club ⚫ Battleford Kinsmen Club December 10:00 –– 1:00 pm December December 22 10:00 10:00 1:00 pm pm ⚫ North Battleford Club December 22 22 10:00 ––North 1:00 pm ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club ⚫ ⚫ North North Battleford Battleford Elks Elks Club Club DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY ⚫ North Battleford Lions Club ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ North North North Battleford Battleford Battleford Lions Lions Lions Club Club Club December 23 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club 10:00 – 1:00 pm dŚĂŶŬ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 December 23 1:30 3:30 pm December 1:30 ––– 3:30 pm December December 23 23 1:30 1:30 3:30 pm Elks Club ⚫ St. ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 ⚫ Joseph Knights Columbus #7336 ⚫ ⚫St. St. St. Joseph Joseph Knights Knights of of Columbus Columbus #7336 #7336 December 23 23 1:30 ––⚫3:30 pm North Battleford Joseph Knights ofof Columbus #7336 ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ North North North Battleford Battleford Battleford Elks Elks Elks Club Club Club ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords December 24 10:00 – 1:00 pm 1:30December – 3:30 pm ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords ⚫ ⚫ Kiwanis Kiwanis Club Club of of the the Battlefords Battlefords ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 December 23 1:30 – 3:30 pm December 23 1:30 – 3:30 pm December 24 10:00 1:00 pm December 10:00 –– 1:00 pm ⚫ Kiwanis⚫ Club of the Battlefords 24 10:00 1:00 pm ⚫ Rotaryof Club of the Battlefords ⚫ ⚫ St. St. St.Joseph Joseph Joseph Knights Knights Knights of of Columbus Columbus Columbus #7336 #7336 #7336 December 24 24 10:00 ––1:00 pm ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ Club ⚫ Club the Battlefords ⚫ ⚫Rotary Rotary Rotary Club of of the the Battlefords Battlefords We own a heritage building and vacant lot, 1132/42 101 Street. ⚫ Rotary Club of the Battlefords ⚫ Kiwanis Club12:00 of the Battlefords ⚫ Rotary Club ofof the Battlefords December 27 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ Royal Legion Branch #70 ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ Kiwanis Kiwanis Kiwanis Club Club Club of of ofBranch the the theCanadian Battlefords Battlefords Battlefords December 27 12:00 12:00 –2:00pm December 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫ Canadian Legion Branch #70 ⚫ ⚫Royal Royal Royal Canadian Canadian Legion Legion Branch Branch #70 #70 December 27 27 12:00 –2:00pm December 24 10:00 – 1:00 1:00 pm–2:00pm December 24 10:00 ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion #70 December 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫ Rotary– Club of thepm Battlefords ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 Close to banks and the new cinema and Giant Tiger. The building is ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ Rotary Rotary Rotary Club Club Club of of of the the the Battlefords Battlefords Battlefords December 28 2:30 – Branch 3:30 #70 pm 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫ 3:30 Royal Canadian Legion December 28 2:30 2:30 2:30 ––– 3:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm pm December 28 December 28 2:30 –12:00 pm December 2:30 –12:00 3:30 pm ⚫ North West Hockey Development December December 27 27 –2:00pm –2:00pm ⚫ ⚫ ⚫Royal Royal RoyalCanadian Canadian CanadianLegion Legion LegionBranch Branch Branch#70 #70 #70 December 29 pm 1:30 – 3:30 pm 7000 square feet and at one time housed two businesses. Due to COVID, 2:30December – 3:30 pm29 29 December 1:30 ––– 3:30 December December 29 29 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm December 1:30 –2:30 pm 1:30 –3:30 3:30 pm are mandatory in the facility ⚫ ⚫ Masks Masks Masksare are aremandatory mandatory mandatory in in inthe the thefacility facility facility December 28 December 28 2:30 –3:30 –30 3:30 3:30 pm pm– 3:30 Bonaventure Lions Club ⚫ Masks ⚫pm ⚫ ⚫ Masks areare mandatory in the facility December 1:30 Masks mandatory in the facility December 1:30 – 3:30 pm December December 30 30 1:30 1:30 – – 3:30 pm pm 1:30December –⚫3:30 pm 30 our financial priorities now are not able to include development of ⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 ⚫ ⚫ ⚫Maximum Maximum MaximumParticipants Participants Participants===30 30 30 –– ⚫3:30 pm December 30 1:30 1:30 3:30 pm Masks are mandatory in the facility ⚫⚫ Maximum Participants =30 30= 30 Spectators = 30 ⚫ Maximum Participants December 29 1:30 – 3:30 pm December 29 1:30 – 3:30 pm North Kinsmen Club ⚫ ⚫Maximum Maximum Maximum Spectators Spectators 30 30 Spectators === ⚫ Maximum December December 31 31 12:00 12:00 12:00 – – – 2:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm December 31 December 31 12:00 – 2:00pm 1:30December –⚫3:30 pm Battleford Maximum theseifproperties. Maximum Spectators 30 Masks Masks Masks are are are mandatory mandatory mandatory in in inthe the theexcept facility facility facility Spectators = maintained, 30 December 31 12:00 12:00 –⚫–2:00pm 2:00pmParticipants =⚫30⚫⚫ distancing must be ⚫ ⚫33Maximum 3metre metre metre distancing distancing must must be be maintained, maintained, except except ifif maintained, except ⚫ 3= metre distancing must ifbe ⚫⚫ ⚫distancing December 30 –– 3:30 pm December 30 1:30 1:30 3:30 pm = 30⚫ members ⚫ Maximum Spectators 12:00⚫ – 2:00pm 3members metre must behousehold maintained, except if North Battleford Lions Club ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be except if ⚫ ⚫ ⚫are Maximum Maximum Maximum Participants Participants Participants ===30 30 30 from same members are are from fromthe the the same same household household members aremaintained, from the same household ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, except members areare from theifthe same household members from same household We want to sell these properties. We would entertain proposals for the ⚫ ⚫ ⚫Maximum Maximum Maximum Spectators Spectators Spectators ===30 30 30 December December 31 31 12:00 12:00 ––are 2:00pm 2:00pm ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club members from the same household PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLICSKATING SKATING SKATING IS IS ISUNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ 3 3 3 metre metre metre distancing distancing distancing must must must be be be maintained, maintained, maintained, except except except if if if PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED building and lot, or the building by itself. The building requires significant #7336 ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED from members members members are are are from from the thesame same samehousehold household household PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN MUST MUST MUST BE BE BESUPERVISED SUPERVISED SUPERVISED BY BYAN AN AN ADULT ADULT ADULT the PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN MUST BY BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT renovations, but has loads of character, and could be used for a variety of the Battlefords MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT ⚫ Kiwanis ClubCHILDREN of CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT purposes. Full basement with 10' ceiling. All it is waiting for is a new PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLICSKATING SKATING SKATINGIS IS ISUNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED ⚫ Rotary Club of the Battlefords owner with ideas! Never miss BY aBYwaste pickup day ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 CHILDREN CHILDREN CHILDREN MUST MUST MUSTBE BE BESUPERVISED SUPERVISED SUPERVISED BY AN AN ANADULT ADULT ADULT
again with Recycle Coach!
Use it for FREE at www.cityofb.ca and search “What goes where” or install it for FREE on your smartphone. Use it to help sort trash and recycling, get updates about Household hazardous Waste Days and other events and use it to set up reminders – this is handy around the holidays!
⚫ Masks are mandatory in the facility
⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 ⚫ Maximum Spectators = 30 Celebrateexcept Canada ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, if on New Year’s Eve members are from the same household Dec 31 7:00pm
G IS UNSUPERVISED E SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT
King Hill • Thank you to
Ensure physical distancing and please remain in your vehicles to ensure compliance with provincial regulations.
The adjoining lots to the south belong to the City, and could be purchased for redevelopment. We would hope to sell to someone with a great idea for a use that will add interest and energy to downtown. Proposals and discussion of price are welcome. To view the building please make appointment with Ursula, manager of the cinema, at 306-445-9722. Tom Hutchinson Magic Lantern Theatres 780-482-1611 tkhutch@gmail.corn
Regional News-Optimist
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 3
Family gatherings limited, among other restrictions By John Cairns Staff Reporter
It’s official: the Grinch has stolen Christmas. That is surely what many Saskatchewan residents must be feeling after the province of Saskatchewan announced even more public health orders which, along with existing orders, will be in effect until at least Jan. 15, 2021. The measures were announced by Premier Scott Moe and Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab at their latest COVID-19 news conference Monday. Most notably, the measures announced Monday include new indoor restrictions that put a damper on any hopes families might be able to gather in larger numbers for Christmas. Here is a rundown of the most notable measures that took effect at 12:01
Graphic by Tierre Bedwell, Saskatoon
a.m. Thursday, Dec. 17: Private indoor gatherings are limited to immediate household members
only. Single individuals are permitted to meet with one consistent household of less than five individu-
als. Co-parenting arrangements are permitted, and caregivers and support services in the home are permitted to continue. For outdoor gatherings, you may meet and greet outdoors with up to 10 people only, provided physical distancing between households can be maintained. The following measures take effect at 12:01 a.m. Saturday Dec. 19: Casinos and bingo halls must close. Personal services including hairdresser/barber, esthetics, massage therapy, acupuncture, tattooing, etc. go down to 50 per cent capacity, including staff and clients. Event venues, conference facilities, arenas, arts venues, museums, movie and live theatres and banquet facilities can still hold events up to 30 individuals, but all guests must be seat-
ed for the duration. Food and drink are not permitted, unless explicitly stated in the order. The guidance for weddings and funeral ceremonies and places of worship is 30 individuals only. Concurrent services may not occur within multiple locations within one facility. At 12:01 a.m. on Dec. 25 these measures take effect: Retail services must reduce capacity to 50 per cent. Large retail with square footage larger than 20,000 square feet must limit their capacity to 25 per cent. In addition, existing public health orders for licensed establishments, sports, fitness and dance, places of worship, and mandatory masking remain in place. It is recommended that one person do
the shopping, and all nonessential interprovincial travel is discouraged. “Re-open Saskatchewan guidelines have been effective at reducing transmission in those settings where we have implemented measures like restaurants and retail settings,” Saskatchewan Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said in a news release. “It’s the in-between places, the social settings, where COVID-19 transmission is happening. In our breakrooms and staff rooms, by inviting new people into our homes, we are letting our guard down. “We can still celebrate the holiday season. After a difficult year, it’s more important than ever to connect with loved ones but it must be done at a safe distance or virtually. Share time with friends and family but keep everyone safe.”
City hears from new coalition coordinator By John Cairns
mon cause.” Workshops were held in Feb. 2018 involving First Nations and the municipal governments in Battleford and North Battleford, and it “gave participants a sense that there was cause to work together to form some sort of a table to jointly advocate for regional issues, to coordinate planning matters, and that sort of thing.” In June 2019 the Sacichawasihc Relationship Agreement was signed between North Battleford, Battleford and five regional First Nations governments: Little Pine, Moosomin, Sweetgrass, Saulteaux and Lucky Man. The BRCC emerged from that agreement, and a public rollout was supposed to happen this spring but it was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had just erupted. Howard said that in 2020 the coalition has pivoted from what he described as its big “conceptual” conversations, to holding regular pandemic interface calls. Leadership has been getting together with reps from Saskatchewan Health, Battle River Treaty 6, and Indigenous Services Canada to
Staff Reporter
The new co-ordinator for the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition was before North Battleford city council Monday providing an overview of the organization. Tom Howard, who took the helm of the BRCC in a role that more or less serves as a replacement for Herb Sutton as community safety coordinator, was before council at Monday’s meeting, held on the Zoom platform. Howard had moved here from Vancouver and was hired for that position in mid-October. Right now he is the BRCC’s sole employee. He spent his time at the meeting giving an overview of the goals of the organization and what they are working on. Howard noted the regional coalition got its genesis after the Colten Boushie shooting and trial of Gerald Stanley. He said there was a “general sense of the need for governments in the region to work together and sort of rewrite the narrative of the Battlefords history, and pull together in a com-
discuss the pandemic. Later in the year, there had been preliminary discussions with minister Marc Miller of Indigenous Services Canada and minister Carolyn Bennett of Crown and Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada about a memorandum of understanding to formalize federal support. The coalition has been incorporated as a not-forprofit society, and at their leadership meeting this week they were scheduled to have their bylaws up for approval by the board. Howard noted how groundbreaking the BRCC was in that there was no real legislative obligation for municipalities to work with First Nations. “There isn’t a lot in Canada in terms of municipalities and first nations working together,” said Howard. “Treaty is a federal obligation and for the most part municipalities and even provincial governments across the country generally say First Nations affairs are a federal problem. And so the innovative thing about the coalition is that it’s entirely voluntary, and it’s a kind of expression of
Tom Howard presents to council Monday on the work of the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition. Zoom screenshot by John Cairns
political goodwill between its members to get together, see what the common problems are, what the common aspirations are as well, and see if collective solutions to those issues can be mooted.” Their short term focus, he said, is to work to secure sources of funding to stabilize the BRCC and create some cash flow to hire contractors as they are needed for any special projects. A lot of work is being down with relationship building as well, and Howard said they are looking to focus on their work plan and some “material deliverables” they can proceed on.
Those include coming up with a coordinated regional tourism strategy which would include the BRCC First Nations partners, as well as those not in the BRCC. Tourism is seen as in keeping with the Sacichawasihc agreement’s objectives, which include “shared cultural prosperity, economic development and rewriting the narrative of the Battlefords region,” said Howard. Councillor Kent Lindgren was among those voicing support for the BRCC’s plans. “I’m really proud of our city for stepping up and doing this work,” said Lindgren.
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He also was hoping to see discussions with the province and that “we see some leadership from that order of government,” adding “it’s quite evident who’s not at the table at the moment.” Howard responded that it was his understanding the province has been “a little recalcitrant” when it comes to the coalition. He said they are working on relationships at all levels of governments, and the province is in their sights in 2021. Howard also expressed hope that the involvement of the federal government in working with BRCC might help bring the province to the table.
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Page 4 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
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Letters
You can cheer a veteran with a holiday card
The commentaries offered on this editorial page are intended to provide thought-provoking material for our readers. Contributors’ articles, cartoons or letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any Regional News-Optimist staff.
Dear Editor The holidays will be different for all of us this year. The flights home will be empty; the tables will be set for far fewer. While this time of year is usually about coming together with family and friends, Canadians across the country, including many of our Veterans, will be separated from their loved ones this winter. If you’ve got some time, let them know you’re thinking of them by sending holiday cheer cards directly to Veterans in long term care homes in your community, or via your local Royal Canadian Legion branch. It’s going to be a difficult winter for a lot of folks, and a small act like sending a holiday card can brighten the spirits of the Veterans who have sacrificed so much in service of Canada. For more information about the Holiday Cheer Card campaign, please visit veterans.gc.ca/holidays. The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
Towers II no safe haven during pandemic
T H E B AT T L E F O R D S
Dear Editor I am a 70-year-old man living in Valley View Towers II. I suffer from COPD and have had five heart attacks. My days on this planet are numbered My doctor tells me COVID-19 would be a certain death sentence for me. There are many other seniors in this building whose health situation is similar to mine. Nearly everyone in this building is living in constant fear for their healthy, safety and their very lives. As most people were sound asleep this past Saturday night, the people in our building were again subjected to an all-night booze party. This is nothing new. It has been the case here for the past two years and it is not improving. In the past year, vehicles have been stolen and vandalized in our parking lot. Expensive bicycles and battery chargers from scooters have been stolen from a secure area in the building. Drunken visitors and prostitutes are coming and going daily from the building. Management says, “Don’t let them in.” For some reason security is now the tenants’ responsibility. Just a little over a week ago, someone vomited on the front step of our building. The office was notified. Several days later it was finally cleaned up by one of our residents. This Sunday morning, I cleaned up poop from the elevator left after the all-night party. This is the third time I personally know of when there was human feces found in the elevator after a drunken party, and, no, it was not chocolate. Many residents and even family members have spoken to the general manager and board members about these serious security problems. All we get is lip service. In the past two years there have been petitions sent to the minister in charge. The past MLA was contacted and many meetings were held with the MLA and senior officials from Regina. Promises were made and money was wasted. Moving the designated smoking area three times, removing trees, pouring concrete, knocking down walls and installing un-monitored TV cameras has all
Regional
done nothing to make this place any safer. What we need is either a live-in caretaker or on-site security. A board that cares and a manager with some experience, ability and compassion for the people who are trying to make this their home would also be a good start. The mask policy in this building is a joke. There is a handful of tenants who never wear masks. Outside visitors stream in and out of the building day and night. Many tenants, their family members and essential works won’t use the elevators for fear of what they might run into. Does the management, board and the government not know what is going on here? You bet they do. So does
everyone else living in North Battleford. It’s hard to believe the government of Saskatchewan is serious about fighting COVID-19 when they can’t even protect the health and safety of its residents in a government-owned and operated facility. When you are sitting down to enjoy a little quiet time over the Christmas season say a little prayer for the seniors in Valley View Towers II. That appears to be the best help we might get. Merry Christmas. Les Turner North Battleford
Holding politicians’ feet to the fire
Dear Editor It is refreshing to see our doctors chiding our posturing politicians and handwringing Chamber of Commerce types with regards to the actions we have taken so far to combat COVID-19. I hope I live long enough that all the backroom SCN Lavilin-type deals for the vaccine are public knowledge .Would the second wave have been as bad if we had all paid attention in fifth grade health class? Awhile ago the good Dr. Wood suggested I recycle my bicycle into a firearm with a bore suitable for strolling with wild boar (and the bear and moose that regularly cross my garden?). Africans living in repressive regimes that find too many elephants in their mealie patches, recycle Land Rover tie rods (steering parts) and use Timothy McVeigh’s recipe. I’ve often wondered if mud brick projectiles from a trebuchet would be a viable non-lethal method of discouraging the corn chomping and people stomping critters. Sorry, I can’t entertain with a redundancy of puns like the erudite Mr. Wood, but perhaps more usquebaugh would fuel me to the level of the trust-fund babies who
A community newspaper published Thursdays Owned & Operated by Prairie Newspaper Group LP a division of GVIC Communications Corp. 892 - 104th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 1M9 Telephone: 306-445-7261 • Fax: 306-445-3223 Serving the Battlefords since 1908 E-mail: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net
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are making the decisions in this country. Or maybe our legislators could be convinced to read Malcolm Gladwell’s “Tipping Point” before they read Niccolo Machiavelli’s “The Prince.” Tom Lamont Maidstone
A Bouquet
When the weather outside is frightful, and the global pandemic is not delightful, small gestures can make a big difference. A huge bouquet to BUH therapies staff, community therapists, co-workers Jenita and Chris and also to Canadian Tire and 7-Eleven for the holiday treats left for each resident at Maples I condo. Your kindness made our day. Sophie Choma North Battleford
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A Prairie Winter I attended Medicine Hat College for a term, back in the day when my aspirations included a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. It was a goal, sadly, never achieved, but it was an interesting beginning to a long career in journalism, a career which earned me a PhD in almost all things to do with the English language. One of my classes at MHC was Canadian literature. It was a revelation, since throughout high school we studied all kinds of classic and contemporary authors, poets and essayists, but exposure to Can Lit was basically Robert Service, Earl Birney and W.O. Mitchell. In that class I was exposed to home-grown literature from the arcane to the sublime (Margaret Atwood’s The
Observations from
Isolation By Becky Doig Edible Woman comes to mind), but sticking in my memory these days is Susanna Moodie. Atwood published a book of poetry based on Moodie’s books, The Journals of Susanna Moodie. Moodie’s books carry titles such as Roughing it in the Bush and Life in the Clearing. I was young and arrogant and I can remember thinking, “O, Susanna,
what a whiner you are!” Moodie’s writing is hard slogging and the Atwood poems inspired by her efforts equally difficult. Moodie chronicles the hardships of life as a pioneer in central Ontario. There is little uplifting in her memoires, or at least there wasn’t to my young mind. Fast forward about 42 years to the winter of
Christmas with Covid By R.H. Wood
North Battleford
Earlier this year a World Health Organization team of experts coined the name “Covid” to describe the thoroughly nasty little germs which have encircled the globe in no time flat. I have discovered that the word can also be used as a verb – e.g. “don’t Covide me and I’ll not Covide you” etc. Its meaning is to cause problems e.g. “my front tire is covided,” or “I’m covided why I’m wearing odd socks.” Some years ago I innocently greeted a colleague with “merry Christmas.” His response was so negative, that I have never again offered this greeting unless I know the person and stick to something like the weather. About that time, I realized that the “merry Christmas happy New year” greeting should be reversed to “happy Christmas and merry New
W
The
ood Pile
year.” This year merriness can’t really be expected at Christmas time but we can at least try to be happy. In Scotland, Christmas isn’t hugely celebrated and merriment is largely centred on New Year (Hogmany). With all the current Covid restrictions, we ourselves won’t be having a traditional Christmas dinner and family get together. We aren’t even having a traditional tree and perhaps Christmas
dinner will be ham in a can with all the trimmings and a slice or two of chemical cake. Meanwhile, our Salvator gives the impression that he has acquired greatness by bringing millions of doses of vaccines from abroad and that he can now blissfully move on to a green Legoland nirvana where he is going to “build back better.” Better what, he has still not revealed, but apparently he proposes to do this with his beloved vision of an ever-increasing clinically unproven carbon tax. Ah well, let’s try to enjoy the festive season and hope that none of us get Covided.
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 5
2020. Yep. Here we are, whining. “It’s going to be a loooong winter, because, alas, we are isolated.” And oh, yeah, “Woe unto us, we are required to wear a mask if we do venture out. Poor us. Actually it’s an infringement on our ‘rights!’ We should protest that.” Eeesh! All the howling has me contemplating the winters of my ancestors. They pioneered in the furthest southwest corner of Saskatchewan, south of the Cypress Hills. Winters there can be mild, but they can also be wildly unpredictable. This year, for example, after an entire season of attempting to grow crops with virtually zero precipitation, the southwest is currently buried under a deep layer of snow. Because of modern roads, travel is possible. Back in the day, not so much. A team of horses and a sleigh would have been required to slog
along prairie trails and across fields. With any luck the sleigh would have been enclosed with a heat source, but that wasn’t a given. If the winter featured heavy snows, homesteaders were isolated. Period. Dialling back to winters of the early 1900s, I think about how my ancestors coped with winter and isolation. How in the world did my seemingly delicate and emotional Grandma Lily survive winters in a homestead shack? I played in that
structure as a girl, and to me it was an outbuilding, not a home. Grandma had a husband and three children. At least she wasn’t alone. About two miles away lived my Granduncle Art. He was Lily’s brother and a lifelong bachelor. His winter days must have been even longer than Grandma’s. Of course there were lots of chores to do just to stay alive, but the isolation must have been profound. Prairie winter isolation in 2020: piece of cake. Dial up Netflix and count your blessings.
Randy Weekes
MLA Biggar-Sask Valley Constituency randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca Toll free number 1-877-948-4880
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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
Regional News-Optimist
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First COVID-19 vaccinations in Saskatchewan
With Saskatchewan’s first COVID-19 vaccine arriving Tuesday afternoon earlier than anticipated, the Saskatchewan Health Authority mobilized to administer the first health-care worker vaccinations. The first health-care workers to be vaccinated were Dr. Jeffrey Betcher, Critical Care Lead, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina and Area, and Leah Sawatsky, Emergency Room Nurse, Regina. Photos courtesy SHA
By Brian Zinchuk
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Estevan Mercury
T H E B AT T L E F O R D S
Winston Churchill famously said on Nov. 10, 1942, the year the Second World War turned in favour of the Allies, “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. but it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” That point was reached by Saskatchewan on Dec. 15 in its battle with the COVID-19 pandemic, with the administration of the first doses of the first vaccine for the coronavirus. The first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine arrived
in Saskatchewan, according to a Ministry of Health release on Dec. 15. Immunization of 1,950 health care workers began on Dec. 15 at Regina General Hospital at 6 p.m., as part of a pilot to test the delivery and storage processes for the Pfizer vaccine. This is the first step of the government’s phased approach to delivering the COVID-19 vaccination to Saskatchewan people, the Ministry said. “Today [Tuesday] is an incredibly exciting day in our fight against COVID-19, as nearly 2,000 people who have been on the front-lines delivering
care since the beginning of the pandemic start being immunized with their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine,” Premier Scott Moe said. “As the first health care workers in Saskatchewan receive the vaccine, I encourage all Saskatchewan residents to get vaccinated, when the vaccine is made available to them.” The first recipients of the vaccine through the pilot are health care workers in intensive care units (ICUs), emergency departments and Covid units at Regina General and Pasqua Hospitals, as well as staff at testing and assessment
centres. The immunizations are taking place over a number of days. Pilot recipients will receive their second dose 21 days following the administration of the first dose. “I have seen the devastating effects of COVID-19 on the patients I have cared for in the intensive care unit, as well as its effects on their families,” critical care physician Dr. Jeffrey Betcher said. “Accepting the vaccine is part of my responsibility as a physician. It will protect me, my patients, my colleagues, friends and family.” Dr. Betcher was among the first health care work-
ers to receive the vaccine in Saskatchewan. Phase 1 of the Vaccine Delivery Plan focuses on immunizing priority populations who are at a higher risk of exposure to the virus as well as those more at risk of serious illness, and will begin later this month. The Ministry of Health will work with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Athabasca Health Authority, and First Nations jurisdictions to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine to priority populations. Officials are planning for the logistics of transporting, storing and distributing the vaccine as it
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news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908
Will be delivered December 24, 2020 and December 31, 2020
Merry Christmas Happy New Year
21012uu1
becomes available. The second phase of the Vaccine Delivery Plan is anticipated to begin in April, 2021 and will continue priority population immunization while providing widespread vaccine access to immunize the general population. Dr. Betcher reminded people not to become complacent because of the vaccine’s arrival, noting that it is critical to continue following public health orders and practicing the basics including, frequent handwashing, physical distancing, masking and staying home if you have symptoms.
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 7
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Toys for Empty Stockings at Christmas
of the Battlefords MARKETING YOUR PROPERTY TO THE WORLD
1391 - 100th Street. North Battleford, SK
(306) 446-8800
Each Office Independently Owned & Operated
www.remaxbattlefords.com ‘Tis the season for giving. Brett Payne of Canadian Tire in North Battleford shared this photo of $500 worth of toys Trevor Watts from Eternal Memories Funeral Home bought from the local store and donated to the Empty Stocking Fund. Photo submitted
Kayla Petersen
Wally Lorenz
Brett Payne
Owner / Broker
Marlene Kotchorek
Owner / Branch Manager
Owner / REALTOR®
Nicole Lovell
Owner/ REALTOR®
REALTOR®
Letter
More on ‘the sign’ Dear Editor I appreciate that my last letter (“Embarrassing sign,” Regional News-Optimist, Dec. 10) was published. It was written in a hurry and not put together well. However, I did plan to write a second letter and since I’ve had comments and phone calls, here is my commentary about the second half of the sign. “Liberals and NDP make a u-turn here. Keep out of the beautiful state of Alberta.” Well, well, if Alberta, where the scenery is beautiful, were a state of the Untied States, all voters therein could have voted Republican and put Trump back in power. Wouldn’t that have been sweet? Perhaps if someone delved into it, much of Alberta is U.S. owned anyway. At present we hear much about people or groups who abuse the fact they live in a democracy to use the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms just to get their own way. Someone without the guts to say they put up a sign, which in my opinion is insulting, ignorant and immature, will say the charter of rights gives them the right, or, in a democracy, we have the right to do whatever we want.
Citing the first, people who refuse to close their church in order to help stop the spread of COVID-19 will drag out freedom of religion. Some religion, if it preaches to not give a darn about others. The church I support is closed and I am still free to practise my religion. And the democracy chant? I think that in a democracy we all have responsibilities. Why should we expect rights without responsibilities? So, to roll this around again to that sign. That day I did make a u-turn and spent no money there. We can either point out how irresponsible and annoying that sign is or we can point fun at it. Let’s have a go at the latter. “Drivers on dope, turn doughnuts here, but keep out of my windshield.”
“Cyclist with no helmets, do wheelies in front of semis; keep out of my backyard when you fly through the air.” Wait a minute! How about, “Anyone who chooses to be a senior citizen, make a u-turn here. You are too wrinkled for the beautiful state.” Not great? I’m sure someone can do better. Meanwhile, will anyone who helped put up that sign, please come forward? I challenge you to a verbal duel, masked and at six paces, of course. You should wear a black mask as usually donned by bank robbers, only in this case you would be found guilty of robbing others of trust, of respect for others and ... oh, the list could go on. Meanwhile, is there a vaccine for what ails you? Christine Pike Waseca
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.
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*North Battleford, Meadow Lake and Swift Current advice centres only. All other advice centres close at 4:00 pm
Friday, January 1, 2020
Dorothy Lehman
REALTOR®
Shane Murdoch
REALTOR®
REALTOR®/Assoc. Broker
10916 Scott Drive, North Battleford 912 sq. ft.
3
2198 Douglas Avenue, North Battleford
1
Great family home on a mature street, check out this 912 sq ft, 3 bed, 1 bath home on Scott Drive. Some renovations have been completed, just add your own touches! Basement is open for development, imagine the possibilities! Basement has a second bathroom already started. Large fenced backyard with patio area, all appliances remain. Enjoy easy access to the territorial walking trail as well as the track and walking paths at the Comp. Get this one before its gone!
MARLENE KOTCHOREK
$159,900
MLS®SK828788
4
5
KAYLA PETERSEN
MLS®SK812876
$649,900
Acres: 157
Commercial property located in Parsons Industrial Park North Battleford, SK. with 4.38 acres fenced on three sides. 24 x 40 heated shop that is located at 10019 Thatcher Ave. the property extends south 628 ft on to Fyfe Ave. This property is generating rent of $2500.00 per month.
MLS®SK834095
3,596 sq. ft.
A unique and rare opportunity to own this grand home in the Battlefords! This home is a one of a kind and the moment you enter the foyer with its marble floor and spiral staircase you will be amazed at the charm and sophistication. With over 3500 sq ft just on 2 levels plus the basement this home is perfect for entertaining! There is a formal living room, cozy family room with fireplace and large bright kitchen featured on the main floor. As well as main floor laundry ,2 half baths and a sauna. The second story has a large master with walk in closet and large 4pc en suite. There are 3 more bedrooms and another full bath plus an amazing office or den with a gorgeous wood fireplace, beautiful built ins and a wet bar. Love entertaining? You will need to see the lower level in person! Wet bar with built in cooler, games area and wood burning fire place, plenty of room for family and friends! There is an upper balcony from the second level as well as a large brick patio accessed from the kitchen or family room. Double attached garage that is insulated and heated. So much more to learn about this home so call for a showing today!
RM of Eye Hill Farm
10019 Thatcher Avenue, North Battleford
WALLY LORENZ
Randall Cote
REALTOR®/Assoc. Broker
$1,100,000
Take a look at this home quarter located south east of Macklin on highway 317. This quarter offers a 1286 square foot 3 bed 2 bath home with central air and all appliances. Outbuildings include a 32 x 50 storage shed with concrete floor, a massive 40 x 100 storage shed with power, 20 x 22 garage, and a 24 x 32 heated workshop. The corrals, watering bowls, and 32 x 80 cattle shed are in place and ready for use. The well was new in 2018 and the water treatment equipment remains. Macklin offers most amenities and a k-12 school. Call today for more info.
SHANE MURDOCH
MLS®SK835941
$474,900
Letters welcome
Christmas and New Years Thursday, December 24, 2020 Friday, December 25, 2020 Saturday, December 26, 2020 Sunday, December 27, 2020 Monday, December 28, 2020 Thursday, December 31, 2020
Shawna Schira-Kroeker
Advice Centre Closed
Call Centre Closed
Have a safe and happy holiday!
From the Board, Management and Staff
51-20th Street, Battleford 1,071 sq. ft. 4 2
411 Railway Ave, Glaslyn 5
2
Take a look at this large family home on .39 acres in the town of Glaslyn. This home has 2 bedrooms upstairs. On the main floor you will find 3 bedrooms, large living room, a bright dining area and kitchen, a four piece bath, a three piece bath, and main floor laundry. The lower level has a huge family room, a utility room with furnace, water heater, water softener, and cold room. The park like yard has many varieties of fruit trees, garden area, 24 x24 garage, large shed and asphalt driveway. All appliances are included. Glaslyn offers most amenities including a K-12 school, a bank, grocery stores, hardware store, service stations, etc. Glaslyn is only 30 mins away from Turtle Lake, not very far from Chitek Lake, and about 40 minutes from the Battlefords. Call today for more info
Sub 5 32 Meeting Lake Regional Park# 32
1862 99th Street, North Battleford
SHANE MURDOCH MLS®SK804991
2,100 sq. ft.
3
$179,000
1
SHAWNA SCHIRA-KROEKER
MLS®SK834540
$149,900
982 105th Street, North Battleford
4
2
Here is a very well cared for bungalow on the West Side. This home has a total of 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. On the main floor it has a large kitchen with abundance of oak cabinets and a good sized living room with a bay window. The basement is completely finished with an extra large rec room/games area. Very nice laundry area with its own sink and counter area. Basement has all been recently up-dated including the 3 piece bath. It has a completely fenced in private back yard. If that is not enough it also has a large 24x26 garage with lots of built in cupboards and counter tops. The garage is fully insulated and has a natural gas heater and 220 wiring. There is also an extra driveway for parking in the front. Take a close look at this one before it is to late.
BRETT PAYNE ED
DUC
E RE
C PRI
MLS®SK826161 $759,000
MLS®SK827278 $149,900
SHANE MURDOCH
971 sq. ft.
The entrance of Meeting Lake Subdivision 5. Solid cabin with many sleeping areas. Large kitchen and dining to accommodate large gatherings, along with open high ceiling living room area with stairs leading to all bedrooms. Across the road there is a pool area and sheds for play area. 2 - double car garages for extra storage. Very in-expensive recreation with $1000/year lease and $885 taxes. Turn key set up for spring time...
MLS®SK836242
$217,900
307 Strange Street, Cut Knife 2,096 sq. ft.
MLS®SK827906
6
3
$168,000
DOROTHY LEHMAN 306-441-7782
NICOLE LOVELL 306-753-7337
430 Beach Avenue, Meota
10 Brentwood Trailer Court, Unity
1,680 sq. ft. MLS®SK819192
3
2
$299,000
DOROTHY LEHMAN 306-441-7782
1.866.446.7001 | www.innovationcu.ca
1,646 sq. ft.
Check out this 1071 square foot 4 bedroom family home at 51-20th St in the Town of Battleford. This home features a bright kitchen and dining area with access to the back deck through patio doors off of the dining room. Also on the main level you will find a four piece bath, three bedrooms and a large living room. The lower level offers large windows for more natural lighting, a large bedroom, a large L shaped family room, a four piece bath, laundry room, and storage room. All appliances plus a microwave/rangehood, R/O system and underground sprinklers are included. This property backs onto the Heritage Christian school grounds, is close to daycare facilities, and is only half a block away from the river valley and hiking trails. Call today for more info.
1,120 sq. ft.
3
2
MLS®SK824340 $34,900
NICOLE LOVELL 306-753-7337
Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
Regional News-Optimist
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‘Twinkle Tour’ will proceed as self-guided event By John Cairns
still be able to do informal self-guided tours of their own with maps provided by the city. Prizes will also still be awarded. The reason for the decision is obvious: COVID-19 restrictions. City Manager Randy Patrick made the recommendation at council to cancel the formal tour. He explained that the province had just dropped the maximum outdoor gathering size to ten people. This posed a major logistical challenge in setting
Staff Reporter
The Grinch has struck again: the City of North Battleford has confirmed that the formal portion of “Twinkle Tour” has been cancelled for this year. The decision was made at a meeting of city council Monday to cancel the annual guided tour of the Christmas decorations and lights in North Battleford, which had been scheduled for Thursday night. Instead, residents will
up the event. Normally, the Twinkle Tour attracts upwards of 400 people. But Patrick noted there are issues when those taking part in the tour would get out to take pictures at some of the more notable displays. To handle the crowds, the city would have required a large contingent of staff “which we don’t have for this, we never have, to keep the crowds under control,” said Patrick. Other issues were also cited, such as people refus-
ing to wear masks. Had they gone ahead, the city would have needed to put a plan together to submit to public health by Wednesday for approval. In any event, the decision was made by council to cancel the formal tour and allow it to go on as a self-guided tour for 2020. The city intends to bring it back “bigger and better next year,” said Patrick. The city has posted the following at their website www.cityofnb.ca : “The Twinkle Tour 2020
has been cancelled. Prize winners will be announced Thursday, December 17th. “A map of the tour for self-guided tours will be provided here allowing people to stay in their social bubbles and to admire the festive lights. Additionally, a YouTube video will be available here, allowing you to enjoy the Twinkle Tour from the comfort of your own home. These will be provided Thursday, December 17th.” The Twinkle Tour is not the only local winter event
to be thrown into chaos due to the latest restrictions. Plans by the city to hold a New Year’s Eve fireworks show (that was originally scheduled for Canada Day) are still up in the air after the latest gathering restrictions announcement. The idea was that people could potentially witness the fireworks from within their vehicles. In the end, it was left to administration to confer with Saskatchewan Health Authority on whether that event could still be held safely.
City’s investment portfolio is looking positive By John Cairns
city’s portfolio stood as of this month. The investment portfolio, started in 2018, is in positive territory despite all the negative stock market swings that took place this year due to COVID-19. Here is how the portfolio looks based on the presentation Monday: As of Dec. 8, the short term pool was $8,929,702.31, which has grown considerably over the past little while. This is described as money in and money out. It consisting
Staff Reporter
The City of North Battleford’s investment portfolio was a key topic at a presentation before city council Monday. Council heard from Jerrod Schafer and Brendon Boothman of RBC Wealth Management about the investment portfolio and strategy of the city; Schafer is also a former mayor of the City of Swift Current. In particular, council learned about where the
of $1,271,665.90 in cash equivalents (interest savings), and $7,658,046.341 in a Global Short Maturity Bond pool. It has grown 1.15 per cent since its inception. The city’s Long Term Pool account stands at $10,637,337.45 as of Dec. 8. The original investment was $10.5 million so it has grown since then. The current asset mix consists of 37.5 percent Cash and Fixed Income and 62.5 percent Global Equity diversified by professional
Brendon Boothman and Jerrod Schafer of RBC Wealth Management speak on the city’s investment portfolio at council Monday. Zoom screenshot by John Cairns
portfolio managers around the world. As of Dec. 8, 2020 the Year to Date return is 9.12 per cent year to Date Re-
Second 2 None Catering Take Out Menu
• Herbed Tomato Bisque • Homemade Burgers • Nutty Broccoli Slaw • Beef Stroganoff with Mashed Potato
• Lemon Chicken Rice Soup • Turkey Bacon Ranch Wraps • Greek Pasta Salad • Porcupine Meatballs
Lunch Prices Soup Regular Sandwich Specialty Sandwich Wrap - 1/2 wrap Full Wrap Salad - Small - Large
WEDNESDAY
15 22
THURSDAY
16
• Cream of Broccoli Soup • Thai Chicken Noodle Wrap • Chicken Taco Salad • Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
23
• Corn Chowder • Shaved Beef & Lettuce Sandwich • Kale Salad • Chicken Cordon Bleu with Rice Pilaf
• Wicked Thai Chicken Soup • Egg Salad Sandwiches • Chicken Caesar Salad • Beef Fried Rice
the citizens of North Battleford “ There has been more than $1.6 million of investment return and $1,559,428.85 withdrawn from the long term pool and either added to the short term pool or taken back by the city for use within the budget since inception.
LIFE-CHANGING DEBT SOLUTIONS
DECEMBER 2020 TUESDAY
turn (2020) and 6.65 per cent since its inception (May 17, 2018). While 2018 was a down year for returns in global equity markets, 2019 was a strong year and 2020 was all over the map, said Schafer. “A little better than six-and-a-half percent is a resounding success for
“Debt free. We can do this together.”
FRIDAY
17
• Borscht • Ham & Cheese Croissant • ABC Salad • Company Pork Tenderloin with Hashbrown Casserole
24
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18
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71 - 22nd Street, Battleford, SK • 306-937-3123 www.second2nonecatering.com BUSINESS HOURS: TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
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Regional News-Optimist
The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 9
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BATTLEFORDS UNION HOSPITAL FOUNDATION INC.
Merry &
Family Day Activities
GOLD SPONSOR
Bright
SILVER SPONSOR DISCOVERY
GOLD SPONSOR
BRONZE SPONSORS
CHRISTMAS ANGEL SPONSOR Vantage Chartered Professional Accountants
SILVER SPONSORS
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
SG Swanson Gryba & Company CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS
DISCOVERY
BRONZE SPONSORS CHÂTEAU D’IF CAPITAL
POINSETTIA SPONSORS SaskTel Canadian Tire – NB MISTLETOE SPONSOR Home Hardware Building Centre - NB “RUDOLPH FUN PACKS” Supporters: Danish Home Bakery, Rob & Kathy’s ‘no frills’, Shopper’s Drug Mart, Living Books, Three Farmers Foods Inc., Battlefords’ North Stars Hockey Club Inc., The Cup Café & Bakery, Freedom Skate & Snow, Amanda Maunula, Amanda’s Imagination Station, Brenda Wagner, Nutters Everyday Naturals, Battlefords Co-op Aquatic Centre We are grateful to the Gingerbread Cookie Dancers, Dr. Von Hooligan and his lovely assistant, Santa Claus, Battlefords’ North Stars, and Battlefords Early Years Family Resource Centre for starring in our Facebook videos. You were outstanding and helped make our Family Day Activities very popular!
“Giving Gala” BRONZE SPONSORS
CHÂTEAU D’IF CAPITAL
Thank you to everyone who supported the “Giving Gala” by donating your Ladies’ Night, Christmas High Tea or Formal Evening admission cost. Your support helped make the 25th Annual Festival of Trees a great success!
Memorial Tree
To everyone who honoured and remembered a loved one by purchasing a “bell” in their memory we are most grateful for your thoughtful gesture. “12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS” RAFFLE DONORS AND CONTRIBUTORS Battleford Boutique, Peavey Mart - NB, Rustic Boutique & Miami Tanning, Boutique Noir, Phase 4 Hair Co. & Esthetics, Beaver Grill Express Asian Restaurant, FF2, Sigstads Prairie Catering, All Out Graphics and Design Ltd., The Colour Parlour,
Thank You TO ALL OUR SPONSORS, VOLUNTEERS, PARTICIPANTS AND SUPPORTERS!
Scentsy – Carol Wright Consultant, Lifetime Fitness, Epicure – Christine George Consultant, Armour Clean, Blend Restaurant & Bar, Arbonne – Melissa Tkachuk Consultant, The Hair Loft, Café 4 U, Beauty Spot Lash Bar & Spa, Chic & Shabby, Epicure – Sara Lynn Houk Consultant, Battleford Furniture Ltd., Jackfish Lodge Golf & Conference Centre, Boston Pizza – NB, Comfort Inn & Suites – NB, B & D Meats, Luna + Leigh, STIL Boutique & Beauty, Paul’s Motorcycle Shop, Dragon Heart Tattoo & Piercings, Bridges Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd., Odishaw Family, North West College, Northern Nurseries, Mike’s Sportswear, Splish Splash Auto, RV & Pet Wash, Craig & Co. Apparel & Accessories, Barnwood Customs, Doug’s Paint Shoppe Inc., All Out Graphics and Design Ltd.
SILENT AUCTION DECORATED ITEM SPONSORS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
SILVER SPONSOR
SG Swanson Gryba & Company CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS
BRONZE SPONSORS
CHRISTMAS ANGEL SPONSORS: North Battleford Hyundai, CJNB/93.3 The Rock/Q98/battlefordsNOW, Schaan Healthcare Products, Enviroway Janitorial Supplies, Rustic Boutique & Miami Tanning, Ultra Print Services GOLDEN BELL SPONSORS: Freedom RV & Marine Ltd., Battlefords News-Optimist POINSETTIA SPONSORS: SpesMed Specialist Centre, Cherry Insurance, M.R. App & Website Development Studio, Anderson Pump House Ltd., Lakeland Veterinary Services PC Ltd. ICICLE SPONSORS: Dwight’s Trenching, Country Cuisine, CBI Health Centre, Kal Tire, Kelley Bahrey & David Dutton – Manulife Securities, Hardy Plant Nursery and Landscaping, Minute Muffler Brake & Wheel, Battlefords Animal Hospital Ltd., North Battleford Medical Clinic, Maunula Electric Ltd., Riverbend Dental Centre STATIC DISPLAY SPONSORS Emmanuel Pentecostal Fellowship, Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium SILENT AUCTION CREATED AND DONATED DECORATED ITEMS Joanne Denton, Ev Gardiner, Stefanie Harrington
SILENT AUCTION DONATED ITEMS Zeke’s Jewellers, Battleford Furniture Ltd. DECORATORS AND DESIGNERS Louise Erbach, Cheryl Mitchell, Colais Fransoo, Jody Sack, Koreen Lawrence, Karen Curniski, Joanne Denton, Elsabe Retief, Debby Dolney, Greenhouse Grannies, Janelle Cox, Cheryl Stewart-Rahm, Laura Richardson, Linda Sheppard, Shirley Krelow, Brook Krelow, Vicky Ray, Judith Reitan, Dorothy Manegre, Kirsten Guggenmos, Val L’Heureux, Bev Vinslovas, Shirley Maze – “Styles Plus”, Leah Milton – “Through Leah’s Eyes” Thank you to everyone who donated and purchased the decorated items. We are also grateful to the businesses that graciously accepted our request to have decorated items displayed in their place of business. FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL John Baker, Jack Day, Milbanke Flowers & Home Décor, Fabricland, Canadian Tire – NB, Peavey Mart, Home Hardware Building Centre – NB, Western Development Museum, Chic & Shabby, Joelle Kuntz – Vice Chair BUH Foundation Board of Directors CHILDREN’S TREES Thank you to all of the schools, daycares and children’s organizations that participated in the 2020 Festival of Trees and decorated for the Christmas season. These trees will be given to a family in need of a Christmas tree, as chosen by the decorating group. MOVING SPONSOR City Courier and Moving SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS We extend our sincere gratitude and heartfelt thanks to everyone who volunteered their time and effort in making Festival of Trees a success! This event and the benefits to healthcare in this community just simply could not happen without your help….THANK YOU! ON BEHALF OF BUH FOUNDATION’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF We are grateful to the Festival of Trees’ Decorators Chairs: Koreen Lawrence, Janelle Cox and Louise Erbach who helped organize designers and items to be decorated, plus the setup and display of the decorated items. Thank you also to Amanda Maunula, McKenzie Worman-Burns and Tamara Scepanovic for sourcing and collecting the raffle items. THANK YOU! CONSIDER THE GIFT OF A DONATION We are still accepting donations to Festival of Trees. If you are interested please visit our website at buhfoundation.com or call us at 306-441-4381 and we would be happy to assist you.
Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
Regional News-Optimist
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Hon. Scott Moe, Premier
Holiday celebrations will be a little different this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To control the spread of the virus and protect one another, we are asking you to stay apart and limit your social interactions. Please continue to take precautions – wear your mask, wash your hands frequently and practice social distancing. Stay up to date with the latest information and recommendations at Saskatchewan.ca/COVID19.
MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook scottmoe.mla@sasktel.net
Jeremy Cockrill
MLA for The Battlefords office@jeremycockrill.ca
Ryan Domotor
MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford domotor.mla@sasktel.net
Fun on the Hill 20201207_News Optimist Ad_ Hoilday 2020.indd 1
12/14/2020 11:44:02 AM
This was the scene Wednesday afternoon last week at King Hill where Community Safety Officers joined in the fun along with tobogganers and those sliding down the hill. The CSOs actually were responding to a call from a concerned citizen expressing worries the sliders might slide into the highway. What the CSOs found instead were kids and families having a good time, so they stuck around to make sure they stayed safe. The CSOs had fun recording the speeds of the sliders with their speed gun, and found the fastest time recorded was 47 km/h. They also provided some helmets for the kids. All in all, a good time was had by all. Photos by John Cairns
It’s been a tough year. But all across Saskatchewan, we’re thankful for every worker on the frontlines who’s helping our families get through this pandemic, together.
From all of us at SGEU, have a safe, healthy and happy holiday.
Regional News-Optimist
The The Battlefords, Battlefords, Thursday, Thursday, December December 17,5,2020 2019- -Page Page11 3
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Thank You
North Battleford and surrounding area! PLEASE CONTINUE TO SHOP AND SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES IN OUR COMMUNITY
Thank You
Thank You
To The Battlefords for voting us Best Florist and Best Place to get Fowers • Gift Baskets Available • We have Harden Huyse Chocolates
1111 100th St. North Battleford www.milbankeflowers.com
WE DELIVER
(306) 445-4444
To the Battlefords for Voting us Best Real Estate Office.
De van ObOrOwsky De bbie ObOrOwsky kale y knight Janaya POllarD bObbi-le e tarasOff re altOr® re altOr® brOke r assOc. brOke r re altOr® 306-441-5123 306-441-2163 306-386-7832 306-441-4162 306-514-8972
WWW.DREAMREALTYSK.COM
Ltd.
Thank you to the
Battefords for Voting Us
The Best Contractor/Home Improvement and
The Best Home Improvement
Alan Wiese Owner/Operator Red Seal Journey person alanwiese@hotmail.ca 1631 99th St North Battleford • S9A 0R4
Thank You
To the Battlefords for voting us Best Home Alarm & Security Company. • 24-HOUR ULC MONITORED ALARMS • WIRELESS OR HARDWIRED SYSTEMS • CCTV CAMERAS • CONCEALED LOW VOLTAGE WIRING • CARD ACCESS • ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
1270 100 St, North Battleford, SK Phone: (306) 445-3252 Tuesday - Thursday – 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Friday - Monday – Closed
Thank You
To The Battlefords for voting us Best Car Wash & Water Store! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 7:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M. www.splishsplashautowash.ca 306-445-6500
Second 2 None Catering Thank You The Battlefords for Voting Us the
Best Caterer
71 - 22nd Street, Battleford, SK • 306-937-3123 www.second2nonecatering.com BUSINESS HOURS: – TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 Regional News-Optimist
The Battlefords, Thursday, December 5, 2019 - Page 3 Regional News-Optimist
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Thank You
North Battleford and surrounding area! PLEASE CONTINUE TO SHOP AND SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES IN OUR COMMUNITY
Thank You
The Battlefords for Voting Us
The Best Glass And Window Shop CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATES www.fortresswindows.ca
306-445-8867
Thank you! To the Battlefords for voting us
BEST CHEF IN TOWN
May the magic of this special season fill your heart and your home
Wishing you Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with Peace and Joy
• “BEST Asian Food” • “BEST Ethnic Food” For the Holidays this year, we will be closed December 25th to January 1st. Thank you to all our customers for your continued support! We look forward to serving you in the new year!
623 Carlton Trail, North Battleford 306-441-9040
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The The Battlefords, Battlefords, Thursday, Thursday, December December 17,5,2020 2019- -Page Page13 3
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Thank You
North Battleford and surrounding area! PLEASE CONTINUE TO SHOP AND SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES IN OUR COMMUNITY
Thank you!
Thank you
to the Battlefords
The Battlefords For Voting Us The Best Insurance Office
for voting us
• “Best Computer Store” • “Best Cellular Repair”
North Battleford Agencies North Battleford Agencies: M – F 8:30 – 5:00 306-445-9418 • insure@nbagencies.ca
1281 100 Street, North Battleford 306-446-4300
GUY’S FURNITURE
Thank You To The Battlefords for voting us Best Auto Parts!
306-446-2218
9805 Thatcher Ave North Battleford
KNOW HOW
Thank you!
To the Battlefords for voting us • “Best Appliance Store” • “Best Furniture/Home Decor” • “Best Mattress Store”
1822 100 Street, North Battleford 306-446-0545
www.guysfurniture.com
Thank You The Battlefords for Voting us The Best Hardware Store The Best Home Builder 11301 - 6th Avenue North Battleford (306) 445-3350
www.northbattlefordhomehardware.com
Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 Regional News-Optimist
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THANK YOU! TO THE BATTLEFORDS FOR VOTING US
“Best Cellular Store” • “Best Electronic Store”
1731 100 Street, North Battleford • 306-445-8819
The Battlefords, Thursday, December 5, 2019 - Page 3 Regional News-Optimist
Thank you!
To the Battlefords For voting us
"Best Paint/Wall Covering"
Doug’s Paint Shoppe Inc. 306-445-7775
1561 100 Street, North Battleford •
Northern Nurseries Thank You THE BATTLEFORDS FOR VOTING US
The Best Boss The Best Customer Service The Best Friendly Staff
The Best Garden Lawn, Landscape The Best Home and Garden The Best Local Business Personality The Best Place to Buy a Gift OPENS The Best Place to Work MARCH 1, 2021 The Best Social Media Account
10803 South Railway Avenue, North Battleford, SK • 306-445-3030
Thank
you!
To the Battlefords for
voTing us
“Best Pizza”
1821 100 Street, North Battleford • 306-445-4500
Regional News-Optimist
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 15
Community foundation awards $40,000 in grants through the Emergency Community Support Fund
Staff
North Battleford Fire department responded to a structure fire Monday morning on the 1300 block of 108th Street in North Battleford. According to a news re-
lease, fire personnel found a structure fire in the south half of a duplex. The fire crews were able to gain access quickly and contain the blaze to the main floor. Three occupants made it out safely. The fire department states that the
advocate for broader recovery and stabilization support for the charitable sector. For a full list of grants
Your curiosity fuels our commitment to keep you informed on local news, events and businesses. Together, we make a community that’s connected every minute at newsoptimist.ca and every Thursday in your The Battlefords Regional NEWS-OPTIMIST DS
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occupants credit the smoke alarm for waking them and allowing them to escape the home. The cause, according to the fire department, is believed to be an electrical short in the family’s Christmas tree.
awarded through Community Foundations of Canada’s network, visit the CFC at www.communityfoundations.ca.
We’re HERE because YOU’RE here.
RDS
Christmas tree starts fire on 108th Street
who are working tirelessly to serve their communities. We know the need for funding is still significant and we’re continuing to
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support, in particular to individuals and communities experiencing heightened vulnerability. “Canadian charities and non-profit organizations play a vital role in our communities and continue to do so in the face of real challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our government is pleased to support these organizations through the Emergency Community Support Fund so that they can continue to help the most vulnerable members of our communities during these difficult times.” – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Charities, nonprofit organizations and First Nations governments are pillars of their communities
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Battlefords and District Community Foundation is proud to have partnered with Community Foundations of Canada and the Government of Canada to deliver the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF) in the Battlefords. Round 1 of ECSF was distributed over the summer and Round 2 launched on Oct. 5. With Round 2, we’ve invested an additional $30,000 through the ECSF towards local charities and other qualified donees supporting populations experiencing heightened vulnerability during this crisis. We are pleased to announce the ECSF has supported projects including:
• $5,000 was invested to fund Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Battlefords to support the Developmental Relationships Training program; • $8,547 was invested to fund Light of Christ Catholic Schools for “Mobile Devices for Remote and Home-based Learning”; and • $16,453 was invested to fund Boys and Girls Clubs of the Battlefords to support their building modifications necessary to address pandemic restrictions. Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared over nine months ago, community-based charities and nonprofit organizations have been working tirelessly to provide emergency
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Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
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Restoration of old quilt a labour of love By Lorna Pearson Correspondent
This cold weather will improve by the weekend, but now it will be safer for the fishermen to get out on the lake and enjoy their winter sport, ice fishing. I see Rob has put up the Christmas street lights, and expect he had some help from the “light fairies.” He has the streets in good shape and snow moved off, for now. The wellness clinic held Dec. 9, lasted longer than usual, so must have had a
good turnout. Bridge was played at the Pioneer Hall on the afternoon of Dec. 8, with top score going to Donna Scherman and Margaret Dyck. Second were Vern Iverson and Linda Ard. The evening of Dec. 10, top score was earned by Margaret Dyck and Dave
Creegan. In second were Jean Lawes and Fraser Glen. Three of my girls have been home recently and all got to help with the reno‑ vation of a quilt I made 23 years ago. It was mostly corduroy pieces from out‑ grown clothes of my grand‑ daughter. Several pieces were frayed and had to be replaced, as well as the backing and lining batt. I was able to get batting from Vi Cardinal who works at the Community Complex with a few other gals, quilt‑ ing, one day a week. Then
it was a matter of putting it all together. We ended up working at the Do Drop In where we had more space. We didn’t quilt it but tied it with strong cording and granny knots. Then, it was a case of delivering to Lloydminster ‑‑ an old quilt filled with love and stitches. The recipient was one happy sentimental girl! On Sunday my daugh‑ ter Sally was driving from Lloydminster to Meadow Lake and shared her time with me. For an hour we visited by phone. She saw a pair of ptarmigan west
of Meadow, a rare sight for sure. The shutdown seems to be in place and we have to all do our share to be safe. Have you taken time to phone someone who lives alone and maybe doesn’t have family nearby? Just a few minutes of your time can mean so much to lone‑ some folk. The TV will be our contact for church services over the holiday season along with many seasonal movies. We must remember the “reason for the season” and TV and radio will be our contacts
to these programs. Those of us who enjoy crafts or puzzles or whatever, to fill our time, are fortunate as it does help to pass the hours. Making Christmas phone calls can start early, and maybe make twice as many as usual. It is cheaper than stamps anyway. So if you are making plans for the holiday, I hope they work out for you. Don’t be worried about your smartphone or TV spying on you, your vacu‑ um cleaner has been col‑ lecting dirt on you for years.
New group home to be built in Wilkie Submitted The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $200,000 for the construction of a new group home for Prairie Branches in Wilkie. Once complete, it will be home to five people with intellectual disabilities. “Our community partners play a large role in creating inclusive and
accessible communities in Saskatchewan,” Cut KnifeTurtleford MLA Ryan Domotor said on behalf of Social Services Minister Lori Carr. “I want to thank Prairie Branches for their commitment to supporting people with intellectual disabilities in our province and for providing quality group home services,” added Domotor.
Prairie Branches currently supports 32 people living in their group homes, 14 people in their supported living program, 55 in day programs, and 30 in vocational settings in the communities of Wilkie, Unity, Biggar and Kerrobert. “We are pleased to have this wonderful addition to our growing agency,” Prairie Branches
Executive Director Eunice Washkowsky said. “Prairie Branches strives to provide quality care and support for the residents and participants in our programs. Thank you to all of the government agencies, the Government of Saskatchewan, SARC and the Town of Wilkie for partnering with us. This initiative is essential for enhancing the lives of
adults with disabilities for many years to come,” Washkowsky added. This new group home supports the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy by creating more residential services for people with intellectual disabilities. Saskatchewan residents and communities that have done work that aligns with the Disability Strategy are encouraged to share their
accomplishments using the hashtag #SKDisability. For information on how to access supports for intel‑ lectual disabilities, please contact the Community Living Service Delivery office nearest you or email clsd.info@gov.sk.ca. You can find the nearest of‑ fice at www.saskatchewan. ca/residents/family-andsocial-support/find-a-so‑ cial-services-office.
20123ge0
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 17
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The pandemic rages, but Christmas continues By Sherri Solomko Correspondent
The community, in spite of the ongoing pandemic, is trying to experience some sense of normal this Christmas. Please adhere to government and Saskatchewan Health Authority pandemic protocols so we aren’t busting the charts continuously, or again, on case numbers. Do what you can, when you can and where you can. Show the love to your community businesses, not only in your purchasing support but treat them extra special this last week before Christmas. They really have been champs throughout the pandemic, ensuring we still had product and services available in a safe manner. These businesses and their employees have served us in whatever manner they could since this whole ordeal began. Share the gift of your kindness and support this Christmas. You still have the opportunity to experience the joy of Christmas music at one of our community
U
nity News
churches, but please check their capacity requirements and pandemic protocols before attending. Many church services are also available online. The Community Cares Christmas mail campaign has shown great results. Both givers and receivers have been happily expressing their joy. Keep that mail coming. Long Term Care, Parkview Place, Heritage Manor and Luther Place all have drop boxes for incoming letters and cards. Thank you to everyone who has participated so far, including schools, who have already had so many other things to do this year. The “Gift-a-Tree” project has completed with trees delivered to Long Term Care and Parkview Place, as well as a couple extras around town. The Adopt-aGrandparent project saw
Wiggles and Whiskers in Unity held a festive photo shoot for pets in November, with another session upcoming in December. Miss Tucker poses here with Mrs. Claus (otherwise known as Sandra Porsnuk). Photo submitted.
An evening view as the Dec. 3 Winterlites parade passed by. Pictured is James Alexander with a trucking entry. Photos by Sherri Solomko
some changes, but thanks to community donors and organizer Audra Nelson, gifts were quarantined then delivered to the Long Term Care to be distributed by staff. The team at Red Apple also collected and assembled gift bags to be quarantined then be delivered to Parkview Place. St. Peter’s School continued the tradition of the annual Christmas concert by providing this performance virtually Dec. 18 at 1 p.m. on their Facebook page. Unity Public School filled their last week with festive, fun spirit days that even included outdoor activity for the students. Unity Composite High School coped with a water main break Dec.9 to add to the year’s challenges. The break will be welcome and imperative for the rejuvenation of staff and students, so they can face the year with a renewed sense of purpose. At Unity museum, men are working at the shop setting up a winterized area so they can sort, organize and build for next year’s use. A gnome fundraiser went beyond anyone’s expectations so the museum group is thankful for everyone’s support to boost their lagging funds. The museum committee wants you to include their location on your twinkle tours. Community church Christmas services are going to look different this year. In St. Peter’s Parish
The Unity Winterlites Parade winner in the vehicle category, shown on the day before parade, was K.D. Welding, featuring Kelly and Tammie McLellan.
there will be Christmas Eve mass in Tramping Lake, Dec. 24 at 4:30 p.m. and in Unity, Dec. 24 a 7 and 9:30 p.m. and midnight mass in Unity. Unity Christmas Day mass is at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Attendees must register for mass by calling the parish office at 306-228-
2341 or by filling out the online form. Parishioners are asked to not sign up for more than one Christmas mass to allow as many people as possible to participate. Father Greg will be live streaming one of the masses. Make sure to take the family out for a twinkle
tour, as there really has been some tremendous work put into home and yard decorating this season. It’s a great pickme-up in these unusual circumstances. Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...
Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
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IN MEMORIAM
OBITUARIES
In Loving Memory of Douglas Graham
In Loving Memory of Robert "The Bob" George Miller
Passed away December 20, 1997
July 30, 1954 September 17, 2020
Twenty three years have passed, But still You stay as near and dear as yesterday. Forever in our hearts.
Now at rest
Lovingly remembered by
Mary, Leanna, Derrick, Sheldon, Spouses and Grandchildren
Stella Folan
10 years have gone by since you left us. Dec 15., 2010
In Loving Memory of
Dennis Woloshyn
Love Lee-Ann, Lloyd Lauren, Cody & Pat
Sept. 25, 1951 - Dec. 21, 2015 Hard to believe it’s been 5 years. Remembering you is easy, we do it every day. But there is an ache within our hearts, that never goes away.
Forever in our hearts All Our Love Darlene & Kyle Family & Friends
FUNERAL SERVICES
In Loving Memory of Elise D McArthur December 15, 1983 - November 8, 2020 Elise McArthur passed away November 8, 2020 at North Battleford, Saskatchewan. She leaves to mourn her grandmother Annie Jimmy, mother Eileen Dakota, children Bosten & Cassie, aunts, uncles, and those who loved her. Elise left a legacy of kindness and compassion. One morning she lay her burdens down and walked into the arms of her daughter Denny & her Mosum. Her work on earth was done. Isaiah 40:31...Soar on Wings As Eagles
OBITUARIES
Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium
2691 - 98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours
1332 - 100th St., North Battleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours
Trevor Watts - Owner/Director Robert Mackay - Director Vanessa Macnab - Apprentice Funeral Director
WHITTLES: It is with great sadness that the family of Mrs. Gladys Whittles announce her passing Monday, December 7, 2020 at the Battlefords Union Hospital at the age of 83 years. As per Gladys’ request no formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in memory of Mrs. Gladys Whittles can be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society 1910 McIntyre St, Regina, SK S4P 2R3. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmem oriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Vanessa Macnab of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.
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YUNG (COLE) JOAN: It is with heavy hearts that the family of Joan Yung (Cole) announces her passing at Nipawin, SK on Nov 27, 2020. Joan was born in Edam, SK on Aug 15, 1956 and spent the first 18 years of her life with her family in Edam. She was the youngest of the “THREE J’S” - sisters Judy, Janice, and Joan in her family, older sister to Jim the youngest and youngest sister to Gary the oldest sibling. Joan was close to her Dad Scotty and they spent many hours together on the farm and trapline. She was also the favorite of Janet the housekeeper who some say spoiled her. Joan left home and Edam in 1974 and for a time worked in and managed cafeterias for the CNIB in Edmonton. She soon moved to Regina, SK to live with her sister Judy and to work at Hauser Chev Olds where she met Harold Yung. Joan and Harold married in 1976 (44 YEARS 3 MONTHS 12 DAYS). Joan and Harold farmed at Strasbourg with Harold’s brother Wayne. Amy (Mark) Josh, Julia/Jill (Tyler) Jack, Henry, Simon, Greta, and Tim (Inna) Oliver, Max all benefited from Joan’s determination to provide a strong example. The care, love, guidance, and discipline Joan provided for her children and grandkids is a vital part of who they are today and of their ability to succeed. Joan and family moved to Nipawin, SK in 1988 to farm and Joan was employed at the Credit Union and the Royal Bank. Joan spent her time after retirement in her greenhouse and working at improving the farmyard. Joan is survived by her husband, children and grandkids, her brother in law Wayne Yung, her brother Jim (Lynn) Mallory, Adam/sister Judy - Tracy, Travis, brother Gary (Judy) Kathy, Sarah, Brother in law Hubert Esquirol and nephew Trevor Esquirol. Joan was predeceased by her parents Scotty and Mary Cole, Sister Janice (Hubert), nieces Natalie and Stephanie (Curtis) Elie, Uma, and sister in law Helen Cole (Gary) DON’T BE SAD ITS OVER – BE GLAD IT EVER HAPPENED __________________________________________________ GIESBRECHT: Leona Eva Giesbrecht. It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Leona Giesbrecht on Nov 6, 2020. Leona was 95 years old. Leona was born in Laird, SK. She was the 5th child out of 9 children. She married William (Bill) Giesbrecht and lived on a farm just outside of Mullingar, SK, where they raise a family of 7 children. In 1980 Leona and Bill moved to North Battleford, SK. In 2007, Leona moved to Quesnel, BC where she resided until her passing. Leona leaves behind her children: William “Billy” (Sharon) Giesbrecht, Leonard (Vivian) Giesbrecht, Harvey (Mavis) Giesbrecht, Larry (Linda) Giesbrecht, and Dianne (David) Kuffert; Grandchildren: Steven Giesbrecht, Jay (Rochelle) Giesbrecht, Crystal Plante (step granddaughter), Author (Scot) Giesbrecht, Dennis (Erika) Giesbrecht, Colleen (Mark) Gurney, Michael Giesbrecht, Landon (Emily) Giesbrecht, Lowan (Melissa) Giesbrecht, Connie (Gary) Barrow, Patrick (Gwen) Page, Rachel Souster, and Robert (Fanny “Nin”) Kuffert; Great grandchildren: Keiran and Trent Giesbrecht, William “Will”, Elizabeth “Lizzie”, and Samuel “Sammy” Giesbrecht, Brett Plante (great step-grandchild), Zackary, Amy, Conner, and Austin Giesbrecht, Caleb and Carley Gurney, Brodhi Giesbrecht, Tyler, Kyle, and Kaitlyn Barrow, Dakota Walch (great stepgrandson), Sophia Page, Ellianna Souster, and Aurora Kuffert; sister: Katherine Wollbum; brother-in-law: Peter Giesbrecht; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Leona is predeceased by her husband Bill Giesbrecht, son Robert “Bob” Giesbrecht and daughter Elizabeth “Betty” Page; granddaughter Pamela Giesbrecht; her parents, as well as her many sisters and brothers. Leona will be remembered fondly for her generous heart, the love she felt for all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A special thank you to Maeford Place and Dunrovin Park Lodge for the kindness and care given to Leona Giesbrecht. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to a charity of your choice. Funeral services for Leona will be held in June, 2021, pending future restrictions. Details will be announced closer to the date.
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 19
OBITUARIES
Peter Lindeman
September 11, 1933 - November 4, 2020
LINDEMAN: It is with great sadness that the family of Peter Lindeman announce his passing on Nov. 4, 2020 at the age of 87 years. Peter was born on a farm near Cando, SK to Joseph and Barbara. He was she second of seven siblings. When he was four years old, they moved to the homestead in the Broadacres area in an enclosed wagon, milk cow in tow and raining every day. Peter lived and worked on the family farm until his father passed in 1978, where he then moved to Luseland to look after his mother. Peter then drove back and forth to the farm. While Peter was cleaning eavestroughs at the house in Luseland, he fell and broke his pelvis and was advised to quit farming. He sold his land in 1989, and several years later sold the house and moved into senior housing in Luseland. Late fall of 2019, health failing, he moved in with Evelyn. Peter attended Mortin School but quit early to help on the farm. His walk to school was one and half miles but the walk home was three miles, as Norris’s bull was always at the gate pawing, so they were forced to take a different route through the coulee to get home. When Peter started school he could only speak German but quickly learned English as the students would get the strap if they spoke German. At times they didn’t listen anyway. Mona Halter, Peter’s cousin, said that as children, Peter was her “bestest, bestest friend.” When their families would visit each other, Peter and her were always playing together. She wouldn’t even play with his sister Maggie. They stayed best friends to this day. They were only 11 days apart in age. Peter’s brothers said he was the quiet one amongst them. He was the oldest and could do anything, so they all looked up to him, including friend Gary Kopp. Even though he taught them how to smoke at a very young age. Peter sure liked to smoke in his day, but managed to quit years later. Peter had a great work ethic and was known in the area as “the hardest working man around”, and he played hard too. He was also always willing to help anyone in need. Besides the farm, he worked for Frank Kopp and Bartley Wilson. Peter was the chief cook and bottle washer when the brothers were batching. He was a good cook. Some of Peter’s favorite things he fondly talked about were threshing, riding horse, working the land with the horses, hauling water, milking, riding the steers with George, listening to his Uncle Carl yodelling through the coulee as he came to visit, spending time with family and friends, growing a garden and driving his mother and sister Maggie wherever they needed. Being the oldest son, he often looked after and disciplined his younger brothers. He also babysat many nieces and nephews and remembers them being quite bad. He prayed the Rosary for the sick or anyone in need. He even prayed it on the tractor working the fields saying it also helped pass the time. The Rosary was said before his funeral mass in honour of him. It was in February, 29 years ago, Peter met the love of his life and best friend Evelyn Kuntz. Their early years were spent going dancing on weekends and watching Lorna Sulky race, following her on the racing circuit. Peter said those were some of the best times of his life, where he made many new friends and just enjoyed being with everyone. Peter was the best chauffeur and drove many friends and family to appointments, functions or just shopping over the years. Evelyn and Peter went on various trips with family and friends to Hawaii, Cabo San Lucas, Minot, North Dakota, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. He truly enjoyed those times. Peter spent a lot of time at Evelyn’s farm, and he even though he was supposed to be retired, he was always there to help and usually did things at a hundred miles an hour. He even helped moved some equipment this spring. Peters could always be found helping Evelyn in the house cooking and washing dishes, fixing things for her, just everything. He became such a big part of our family and was so good to all of us. He never missed a family function. Peter was the perfect gentleman, opening and closing doors, carrying bags when shopping and taking in the groceries. He was a kind, gentle, quiet man, with a wonderful sense of humor and a bit of a jokester. Peter never wanted gifts, so we would always try to think of things to give him that he wouldn’t refuse. Lorna would grow potatoes and give to him, he loved potatoes, especially mashed with gravy, oh and baking and a lot of sweets. Peter loved children and was a special great-grandfather to Kaiden. They spent so much time together. This spring Kaiden was sitting on top of Peter’s walker, talking away, and Peter said to him, “slow down, you’re talking to fast, I can’t keep up with you.” Peter would always tell mom to lock the doors at night when the young ones came to stay, he didn’t want anyone coming in and taking them. Peter loved reminiscing about days gone by or the old ways and people he knew, his eyes would light up and he could talk for hours. Peter had alot of health issues over the year and with Evelyn’s help, he always did quite well overcoming them. He fought cancer the last several years. It was a long, hard road for him that he faced with such courage, strength and acceptance. Never complaining, no matter what was thrown his way. The nurses said he was so easy to care for. Through all of his health issues, he still had so much concern for everyone, especially Evelyn. As his health steadily declined, he could no longer get out and about, he enjoyed sitting at the kitchen window watching a den of baby foxes come out to play, the antics of Sammy the German Shepherd, all of the birds and everything that was going on outside. It was an honour and a privilege to have had Peter in our lives, he was a great influence. We are so grateful that mom had someone so special to share in her life and to love and care for her. We love you and miss you. Left to cherish Peter’s memory are his loving and devoted partner Evelyn Kuntz and her children Glenn Kuntz (Karen), Brianna, Amanda, Sarah, Ben and families; Debbie (Ken) Sali, Kevin and son Kaiden, Lorna Kuntz, Chris (Alisha) Scherr and son Tristan, Deon (Courtney) Scherr; also brothers George (Margaret) Lindeman, Eddie (Shirley) Lindeman, Leo (Arlene) Lindeman, brothers-in-law Henry Knorr; sisters-in-law Genny and Carol Lindeman and numerous nieces and nephews. Peter was predeceased by his beloved parents Joseph and Barbara (Weinberger) Lindeman, sisters baby Victoria and Maggie Knorr, brothers Joe and Wilfred Lindeman, Evelyn’s son Darren Kuntz and son-in-law Bruce Scherr. A funeral service for Peter was held Nov. 10, 2020 at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Tramping Lake, SK with Father Greg Roth officiating. Interment was live streamed and can be viewed at http://www.facebook.com/Gregory. roth.35. Arrangements were entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service. Donations in Peter’s memory can be directed to the Unity and District Health Centre, Box 742, Unity, SK S0K 4L0.
Bruce Michael Scherr September 30, 1959 - May 15, 2020 SCHERR: Bruce passed away May 15, 2020 at the age of 60 years. Bruce was born in Kerrobert, SK on September 30, 1959 he was the third child of Joe and Selma (Eckert) Scherr. His mother Sally said that when Bruce was little, he was always on the go and never could sit still. She often went to bed at night and cried because of the things the three boys got into during the day, while they were growing up. Bruce attended school in Tramping Lake, graduating in 1977. He began grain and cattle farming with his father and mother. During school he met Eileen Schell and they married on April 20, 1979. They made their home on the family farm and welcomed and raised two sons Christopher born Sept, 18, 1982, and Deon Sept. 10, 1991. Bruce and Eileen took over operating the farm as Joe and Sally geared up for retirement and eventually they moved to Sylvan Lake, AB in 2001. Bruce lived his entire life on the family farm. He loved it and the way of life. Seeding the crops, spraying, checking them, swathing and combining, he looked forward to it all. The cattle, feeding, calving, branding, haying, pasture checks, buying and selling were also his passion. Bruce loved his horses, using them with cattle, going for a ride or just giving them a friendly pat. He especially enjoyed going to the mountains with them the past two years with friends. In earlier years, Bruce took on other jobs besides the farm with Alvin Huckabay, D & F Welding and B & B Contracting out of Kerrobert. He was a jack-of-all-trades, being quite skilled at welding and could fabricate anything, fixing or building from scratch, be it wood or metal. He and his father completed many projects together. Bruce also did a lot of carpentry work over the years for himself and others. He worked very hard, often the first one up in the morning and the last to go to bed. Bruce enjoyed playing many sports such as broomball, volleyball, badminton, ball, floor hockey, table tennis, skiing, archery, hunting and playing cards. Oh, and all those tournaments. He liked country music and watching his favorite TV shows while drinking coke and eating chips and vanilla ice cream. You could also find Bruce at horse, cattle and farm auctions. He even started to watch and bid online. Bruce also enjoyed going to rodeos and any type of horse events. The trips to various destinations over the years were a highlight, but for him there was still no place like home. Some things Bruce wasn’t fond of were water, dancing, shopping, going to the city, dress clothes, dress shoes, strong perfume, heavy metal music and texting. Bruce was a very active and dedicated Kinsmen member in Tramping Lake, helping with their many projects and fundraisers. He had such a kind, generous heart he was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need, often putting his own work aside. Bruce was non-judgemental and had such a calm easy-going nature. Rarely did he lose his temper and if he did, he would say his peace and move on. He wasn’t one to dwell on things. Bruce had the most infectious smile and was so full of life. He was also known for his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor and for being a bit of a jokester. He brought joy and laughter to so many. Bruce loved his grandson Tristan and would laugh at all his antics and say “Payback Christopher!” Children had a place in his heart and they all just seemed to gravitate towards him. Bruce’s greatest love was his family, he was so very loving, caring and devoted to them. He enjoyed spending time with all the family, each and everyone being important to him and he made them all feel special. Bruce’s friends were such a big part of his life and have so many memories of him. Sadly, Bruce’s wife Eileen passed way Nov. 8, 2007 after 28 years of marriage, leaving him devastated and feeling alone and empty. In time he was able to find love again with Lorna Kuntz, which helped him be happy and enjoy and live life again. They became each other’s constant companion. Bruce welcomed, embraced and loved the extended family that came with her. On July 10, 2018 Bruce was diagnosed with cancer. He faced the disease with such courage and strength, getting through surgery Sept. 21, 2018, enduring the chemotherapy and radiation treatments and everything that came with it. He was out running the combine two weeks after his surgery, even though he shouldn’t have been, and also operated the air drill in May of 2019. He put in long days while still recovering from his last chemotherapy treatments, a true show of his strong will and determination. We were so sure he was going to beat this cancer but a cure for him was not to be. He faced his death with the same courage and strength. With everything that was going on with him, he was more worried about us. Remembering you is easy, I do it every day, but missing you is heartache that never goes away. We will always love, remember and miss you. Bruce is survived by his loving and devoted partner and best friend Lorna Kuntz, sons Christopher (Alisha) and grandson Tristan; Deon (Courtney); mother Selma and friend George Jahner; brother Dale (Joy) and family Heidi (Jamie) Bradburn and Harrison, and Nikolas (Rosie) and sister Debby Chestney and son Ayden; sister-in-laws Val (Phil) Wiebe and families, Debbie (Grant) Shepherd and families; brother-in-law Lloyd Schell’s families. Lorna’s mom Evelyn Kuntz, brother Glenn (Karen) Kuntz and families and sister Debbie (Ken) Sali and family. Bruce was predeceased by his wife Eileen (Schell), father Joe, brother Wayne, father and mother-in-law Kasper and Mary (Bohn) Schell, brother-in-law Lloyd Schell, Lorna’s father Lyle Kuntz and brother Darren Kuntz. Friends arranged a drive by through Bruce’s yard in his honor on May 20, 2020. A funeral service for Bruce was held Nov. 14, 2020 at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Tramping Lake, SK with Father Greg Roth officiating. The service was livestreamed and can be viewed at http://www.facebook.com/gregory.roth.35.
Thank You The family would like to thank Father Greg for the lovely service, Mark and Lea Mallett for their beautiful music and Chris Lang for all of her help with the service; ushers Gary Welter and Les Tuchscherer; the Tramping Lake broomball team for being honour guard; Richard, Bonnie, Courtney, Celina, and Kyle Risling for all your help this spring, summer and fall. It was a comfort to Bruce knowing you were there when he no longer could be. Debbie and Grant Shepherd and family for all of your help, especially Debbie for helping to plan the service. Trevor and Tyra Germshied and family for the use of their house in Saskatoon this spring and for all your help. My sister Debbie Sali and Aunt Virginia Meier for coming and spending time with me, helping with the garden, yard and just everything, and all the phone calls. To our family, friends and neighbours for their help, to those who sent food, flowers, cards, called and stopped by, and offered help or gave donations. Those who planned the drive by for Bruce, and to all of you for all your love and support. Thank you to Dr. Lyle Williams for going above and beyond with care for Bruce and for your compassion and kindness. The nurses and staff at the Unity and District Health Centre and Medical Clinic for their excellent care. Dr. Vivian Walker, the doctors, nurses and staff at St. Paul’s Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their excellent care, compassion and kindness. Words can never express our gratitude to you all!
Thank you Thank you to Father Greg for the beautiful service, Alicia Simon for leading the Rosary, Chris Lang for her help with the service, Marie Volk, Ron and Hilda Mitzel and Chris Lang for the lovely music. Thank you to Dr. Williams, all the doctors, nurses and staff at the Unity and District Health Centre for their wonderful care and compassion for Peter. Thank you to all who stopped by, called, sent cards, food, flowers, gave donations or had Masses read. Your kindness and concern means so much to us all.
Evelyn Kuntz and family
Lorna Kuntz, Chris, Alisha & Tristan Scherr, Deon & Courtney Scherr
ANNOUNCEMENTS
FOR SALE - MISC
Don’t fall victim to sharing fake news about COVID-19 online. Learn the four simple steps that will help you SPOT fake news online. Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca
HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS! The global COVID-19 pandemic means learning how to SPOT fake news has never been more important. Protect yourself with media literacy in 4 simple steps. Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca NOTICES / NOMINATIONS 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. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.
HEALTH SERVICES GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL SASKATCHEWAN BENEFITS 1-(800)211-3550 or Send a Text Message with Your Name and Mailing Address to 306-992-5527 for your FREE benefits package.
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Battleford shop, 75’x50’ - fenced 1.4 acres, two 14’ electric drive thru doors, 3ph power, hoist and compressor incl. Offices, two bathrooms, shower. $359,000 306446-4462 or 306-441-5552
WANTED Saint Saviour’s Anglican Church, Lloydminster, Sask is seeking a PART-TIME RECTOR. Parish profile is on the ANiC website. Please forward your resume by email to Bishop Trevor Walters at walters34@shaw.ca. For further information contact: Carol Harbin at 306-821-2022 or email c.harbin@sasktel.net. Deadline for submissions January 15, 2021
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 $50,000 Lump sum refund. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide! Providing assistance during Covid.
Expert Help:
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
battlefords humane society
LUCKY BIRTHDAYS
How lucky is your birthday? Buy a ticket and find out. Make sure your birthday and those of your family are entered in our prize draw! Buy a ticket, pick a date, one winner! Tickets $20.00 and win a birthday party on us valued at $600.00. ONLY 365 TICKETS SOLD. Draw made Dec. 31, 2020.
Call the Animal Shelter 306.446.2700
for more information and tickets. Lotto License SR19-3803
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of Mary Zawada, late of North Battleford, 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 January 4 day of 2021. Battle River Law Banisters & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executrices of Mary Zawada,
NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of Laura Marie Johnson, late of Prince, 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 7 day of January, 2021. Battle River Law Banisters & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executrix of Laura Marie Johnson.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of Edward Earl Clark, late of Mayfair, 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 8 day of January, 2021. Battle River Law Barristers & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street, Box 905 North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Administrator of the Estate of Edward Earl Clark.
HOUSES FOR SALE
HOUSES FOR RENT
House for Sale 1300 ft two story colonial house. Carpenters special. Large yard, two garages , and shed. Just right for flipping. Will sell for $160,000. Phone 306-4419328 to view.
LAND FOR SALE SE 10-44-15 West Third. Jean at 306-446-1668.
Call
FARMLAND WANTED
House For Rent in North Battleford 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished up and down. Close to Schools. Detached garage.
306-446-0441 SUITES FOR RENT
I am currenlty PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.
1 Bedroom basement suite, Available immediately. Private entrance, W, D, F, S included. Must be working, No pets. Phone 306446-1398 or 306-490-8109
FARM SERVICES
NO FEES OR COMMISISONS 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 APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT
Cederville Apartments, quite adult complex, spacious 1 bedroom suite, lower level. Available Dec 1. Security doors, no children, no pets. Rent $800, security $800. call to view 306-481-2836
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
NC34
Estate of Brian Robert Tomlinson who died on September 25, 2020.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable. Clean drivers abstract a must. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca Labourers Wanted:
FEED & SEED Round Bales: 250 gfd. Oats, 300 Wheat straw, 200 Oat straw. All net wrapped. Phone/Text 306291-9395 Langham, SK.
Duties inc, in part: pressure washing heavy equipment, trucks and trailers. Cleaning shops. Assisting where required. Heavy lifting involved. Mechanical aptitude an asset; must be safety conscious and able to work around heavy equipment. Must have a clean driver’s abstract. Position located in Arborfield, Sk. Camp accommodation provided if necessary. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca
If you have a claim against this Estate, you must file your claim by January 18, 2021 with GRAEME T. HARRINGTON at Properzi Tims Barristers and Solicitors 9831 - 107 Street Westlock, Alberta T7P 1R9 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the Estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
T H E B AT T L E F O R D S
Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
Regional
NEWS-OPTIMIST Serving the Battlefords since 1908
ANNOUNCEMENTS
NOTICES / NOMINATIONS
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS (Municipal or School Division Elections)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of: Councillor: Village of Maymont Number to be elected: 1 will be received by the undersigned on the 6th day of January, 2021 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Village of Maymont Office located at 112 Main Street and during regular business hours from Thursday December 17, 2020 to Tuesday January 5, 2021 at the Village of Maymont Office located at 112 Main Street. Nomination forms and Public Disclosure Statements may be obtained at the following location: Maymont Village Office 112 Main Street Dated this 17th day of December, 2020. Denise Bernier Returning Officer
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
FULL-TIME
CASHIER
QUALIFICATIONS: • Grade 12 or equivalent. • Pleasant, outgoing person who enjoys people. • Experience an asset.
Some evenings and Saturdays. No Sundays or holidays. Are you ready to join a team-oriented staff where customer service is number one? Apply with resumé to Fisher’s Drug Store 1501-100th Street, North Battleford, SK
No phone calls please. Only those with interviews will be contacted.
BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING
CALL 306-445-7261
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A squabble at story time
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
We’re hiring! If you are service minded, team driven, career focused and thrive in a digital world… Visit the careers page of www.innovationcu.ca
The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 21
By Sarah Beauregard and Johannie Dufour / Translated by Katya Teague nce upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, there was a charming library. The holidays were just around the corner, and several children had gathered there for a morning of Christmas-themed activities followed by story time. A local actor named Sean read that day’s tale. It was a story about a gingerbread woman named Nutmeg who was tired of her job as a maintenance worker. Instead, she dreamed of becoming a sentry like the Licorice People so that she could protect Treat Town. When Sean finished reading the story, he asked the children which Christmas treat they liked the most. This prompted a heated debate about chocolates, cakes, tarts and cookies. Eventually, the conversation turned to candy canes. “I love peppermint candy canes,” said five-year-old Madeline. “No, no, no,” exclaimed several children in unison. “Cherry candy canes are so much better,” declared one boy, and several kids nodded in agreement. “But the peppermint ones are delicious too,” Madeline asserted. “I guess,” replied one child. “I don’t like them,” said another. “Eating a peppermint candy cane is like eating toothpaste,” added one girl in disgust. To put an end to the bickering, Sean changed the topic of conversation and soon it was time to say goodbye. As the children wandered around the library awaiting their parents, Sean saw Madeline disappear among the stacks with tears streaming down her cheeks. Concerned, the actor rolled his wheelchair toward the bookshelves and found the little girl sitting between two rows. Sean tried to comfort her, but Madeline refused to tell him what was wrong. Not knowing what else to do, Sean decided to go see if the girl’s parents had arrived. No sooner had he left than a red bird landed next to Madeline. It was Octave, the friendly magical cardinal who watched over Mount Christmas. “Octave, I made a big mistake,” Madeline said between sniffles. “When Mom and I went shopping, I chose peppermint candy canes to leave out for Santa Claus. I think they’re delicious, but I was wrong. Nobody else likes them... I should have picked cherry.” “Don’t worry my dear,” the bird replied. “There’s no need to cry. Everyone has different tastes. Besides, if nobody liked peppermint candy canes, they wouldn’t sell them at the store.”
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“I guess that’s true,” the child admitted, wiping tears from her eyes. “Do you think Santa likes the peppermint ones?” “Maybe,” Octave replied. “Everyone knows how much he enjoys sweets. Besides, I think he’ll be happy that you were nice enough to leave him a snack, no matter what it is.” “You’re right. Thanks, Octave!” By the time Sean returned with Madeline’s mother, the girl was smiling. She thanked the actor for the story and headed home. As Sean watched the little girl leave, he shook his head. Children could be so confusing!
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Merry Christmas
from our family to yours
YOUR SUPPORT OF THIS LOTTERY ENRICHES PATIENT CARE AT BUH! visit our website at www.buhfoundation.com Proudly sponsored by
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Page 22 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020
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Waiting is the last thing I want to do “The grandkids are waiting for Christmas in Edmonton like raging bulls,” Ed told me yesterday. His family there is not able to come to Melville for Christmas. Ed and Ruby can’t go to be with them. His grandkids are checking the mail for presents from Grandpa and Gramma in Saskatchewan. Ed has told them they could open them when they arrive. They do not have to wait for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. I hope it all works out for Ed’s family in Edmonton and that the presents arrive before Christmas. Like Ed’s grandkids, I’m not good at waiting. I am no raging bull, but being
N
eighbourly Advice
According to Ed By Raymond Maher
www.accordingtoed.com
revraymaher@accesscomm.ca forced to wait makes me feel that what I’m waiting for will never happen. The Advent season calls us to wait for the return of Christ with hope, peace, joy and love. When Jesus was born at Bethlehem, the hope, peace, joy and love of God were given in fulfillment of God’s
promise of His coming Messiah or Savior. Galatians 4:4 states, “But when the fullness of time had come. God sent forth his Son born of woman, born under the law.” The first Christmas proves that no matter how long it takes, when it comes to God’s promises,
it’s always worth the wait. Waiting forces us to give up our comfort of being in control and allows God to work the fullness of His time. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we often were focused on waiting for what was not a matter of life and death. Many felt there are only two times of the year, hockey season and waiting for it. The pandemic means waiting for a vaccine to prevent sickness and death. As I write this, lifesaving vaccines are being developed and approved. It means hope for all people. We pray hope, peace, joy and love will grow to replace pandemic strife. Hope, peace, joy and
love are often the candles’ names on the Advent Wreath. The wreath represents eternity without beginning and end. Our God is without beginning or end and promises that those who believe or have faith in His Son Jesus Christ will be taken to heaven when Jesus returns to judge the living and the dead. Many seek all the hope, peace, joy and love they can get here on Earth and ignore any thought of God, heaven or hell. It isn’t that there isn’t hope, peace, joy and love on Earth, but they are balanced or matched with despair, hate, death and grief. Many doubt and scoff at God and the hope, peace,
joy and love He freely offers in Christ. The question before us is always who we will trust ourselves or God. Who will you trust most and depend on most? The scoffing about the promised coming of Jesus is always great. Thank goodness God is good at waiting.“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. The day of the Lord will come like a thief.” Let us look forward to heaven with trust in Jesus before He returns from heaven and it is too late.2 Peter 3:9-10
Worship Together Spend some quality family time together. Worship at the church of your choice. Our community has a number of churches and a variety of denominations for you & your family.
(RC) St. Joseph Calasanctius Parish 1942 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 0N4
TerriTorial Drive alliance church
306-446-1695
PASTOR: Rev. Phinh Do
DAILY: Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. - 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted WEEKEND MASS TIMES: Saturdays - 7:30 p.m. Sundays - 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
ANGLICAN PARISH Rev. Trevor Malyon
1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK
St. Georges Anglican Church Battleford Sunday @ 5:00 p.m. St. Paul’s Anglican Church North Battleford Sunday @ 11:00 a.m. Battle River Parish YouTube channel CJNB Radio 1050 a.m. Sunday mornings 7:45-8:30 a.m. Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net
306-445-5901
Reverend George Yando Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome
PRE-REGISTER
Hope Mennonite Fellowship
Battlefords Grace Community Church
1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford
SUNDAY - 11:00 a.m. Worship Service
Pastor: Bill Hall
191 - 24th Street W., Battleford, Sk. 306-937-7575
WORSHIP SERVICES - 11 a.m. Sunday
Church Phone 306-445-4181
Everyone Welcome
Living Water Ministry
Sr. Pastor Brian Arcand Pastor Anand George Phone: 306-445-3803 Cell: 306-441-9385 Fax: 306-445-4385
All Saints Ukrainian Catholic Parish
902 - 108th Street, North Battleford DIVINE LITURGY Sundays & Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. Contact: Fr. Ivan Derkach 306-937-3767 or 306-317-8138 Social Distancing Protocol in effect.
Battleford United Church 52 - 4th Avenue West Battleford, SK
306-937-3177 Rev. Gayle Wensley
SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.
Battlefords Cowboy Church Services 1st & 3rd Thursday of each Month
Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m. PASTOR - Rick Martin
Third Avenue United Church
ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S
Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 am
Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m. Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.
Rev. Dexter van Dyke
Pre-registration required to register at
306-445-8171
www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net
Everyone Welcome
1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)
LIVING FAITH CHAPEL
1372 102nd St 306-445-3009
Phone 306-937-7340 PASTOR - Fr. Sebastian Kunnath
Phone: 306-285-3823 Contact: Don Retzlaff
Services: First & Third Sunday 10:30 a.m. Church & CE Wing: 306-893-2611 For booking the Wing: 306-893-4729
Sunday Services 10:30 am Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca
Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church
11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK
Maidstone/Paynton United Church of Canada
Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m. Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.
1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford
Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Fax: 306-445-8895 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca
Pastor James Kwon
Corner 16th Ave. & 93rd Street, North Battleford
Phone 306-445-9096
Saturday Services Bible Study - 10:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.
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The Battlefords, Thursday, December 17, 2020 - Page 23
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Professional Directory
AGRICULTURE PARTS
Bob Frolek's
Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance
AGRA PARTS PLUS WRECKING
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Only three more months until spring By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent
The cooler temperatures we are experiencing are a contrast to the past two weeks. By now, I’m sure the well-seasoned prairie person has all of the necessary warm outer clothing to avoid frostbite. Hoar frost on the trees has created a magical winter wonderland. Spring is only a little more than three months away if you want to cheer about something. Whitkow and Mayfair will dearly miss Shirley Lamontange, as she has relocated to a senior housing complex in Shell Lake. Shirley and Oliver (deceased) have been living in
our area for about 50 years raising their four children. who all attended Mayfair Central School. They were staunch supporters of the many fundraisers the community hosted. So now, rather than hopping in my vehicle for a mile and a half drive, I will have to plan ahead for 70 miles. Shirley was always a busy person, working outside with her cattle, so hopefully she can put her feet up and dream about them. Dawn, her sister,
lives in that area and her only brother, Jack Day, frequently visits. His son Owen owns Mont Nebo store. With many people not wanting to shop in larger areas because of COVID-19, Owen’s sales have gone up tremendously. Nothing like supporting the businesses in one’s own area. Sad to hear Sarah Beaudoin of Maymont passed away at the age of 100 years. She was a remarkable woman, always giving back to her community. Sarah kept up with the times in this ever-changing world and was interesting in what activities the young were involved in. She
lived one block away from her daughter before moving into River Heights Lodge, North Battleford. Condolences to the Beaudoin family. Ashley (Curtis) Babiy moved from her job at the Royal Bank in North Battleford to manager at CIBC since early spring. It takes her one hour and 15 minutes to get to work, five days a week. Fifty years ago, when we moved to the farm, very few people commuted to work in the city, but now it is a common practice. My apology to Doreen Kulpa, as I had stated in my last column that she resides at River Heights Lodge. She still lives in her
home and can manage her daily activities just fine. Congratulations to Gail Adamus on being a greatgrandmother. Her granddaughter, Kelsey (Jared) Samborski had a baby two weeks ago. Proud grandparents are Tammy and Dale Staryki of Battleford. The Adamus family farmed east of Mayfair and, after Edward passed, Gail moved to the Battlefords. Dale’s father lived in Whitkow for many years. COVID-19 has influenced how children are being encouraged to approach activities this winter. News reports indicate sales of cross-country skis and snowshoes have been brisk, as children are en-
couraged to park the electronics and get outside. Drivers are reminded of this and advised to slow down, especially during the school break. The making of ice is presenting problems in some rural communities. We love the above normal temperatures, but this can create many problems. To some, the drastic change to cold is welcome. Skating season will be brief this winter. Only a few more sleeps before Christmas, so get hustling and do all those last-minute shopping chores. Gatherings will be small, but share the love and warmth in any way you can.
Turkey shoot carries on long-standing tradition By Alan Laughlin Correspondent
It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas here in Rabbit Lake. The street decorations are up and are a welcome greeting as we drive into the village in the evenings. Additionally, many residents have lit up their eaves and placed decorations, which bring life and vitality to community. One especially nice display can be found at the home of Marvin and Linda Price. Nov. 29, the Rabbit Lake Senior Sunrise Circle held its annual turkey shoot. According to the seniors of the community, this event
R
abbit Lake News
has run continuously since the late 1950s. Originally the event had the shooting in the old two-sheet curling rink, with a bingo and a supper in the community hall. At that time the curling club sponsored the event. Eventually the community hall board took over running the turkey shoot, and the whole event, with some modifications, took place at the hall.
Most recently, the seniors’ group have sponsored the turkey shoot and held the shoot at the hall and the bingo at the seniors’ hall. This year there was no bingo due to COVID-19 restrictions and the actual shoot was held with stringent precautions in place. Not many actually came to the shoot, but those who did had fun and some went home with turkeys. The top shooters were Brian Jones with a score of 27 out of 30 and Patrick Laughlin with a score of 28 out of 30. Additionally, turkeys were won by Doreen Lamb, Kathy Aumack, Marie
Balazsi, Eric Kuffert, Rhonda Prescesky, Melissa Rowland, Colleen Toews and Margaret Seigel. I think Karen Vallee had the most fun at the turkey shoot this year. Ask her all about it. Thanks to Patrick Laughlin for being the range officer this year. Surprisingly, the first term for both regular and post secondary-education will be complete by Dec. 18. Hanna Dzialo Hansen is attending her first year of college in Vermilion, Alta. Hanna was awarded a $500 scholarship from the Royal Canadian Legion, for which she is grateful. Ice shacks are begin-
ning to fill in the landscape at Meeting Lake. Although reports suggest there is ample ice around the shore, it remains questionable farther out. Ice fishing can be a great way to fill time alone or in family groups while remaining socially distanced or in family bubbles, but be careful to check the ice depth and stay safe. Due to pandemic concerns, the annual Rabbit Lake and District Agricultural Association snowmobile rally, that typically would be held on the first Saturday in March, will not happen this year. A few years ago, the
community purchased an AED, which is housed at Rose Gill Lodge, but is available to all the community should an emergency occur. This device requires systematic maintenance such as batteries and other supplies and that comes with an ongoing cost. At its last meeting the Ag. Association agreed to fund the necessary updates for around $300. Finally, and most importantly, the community of Rabbit Lake wishes each and every one a very merry Christmas and looks forward to a new year much different from 2020. Enjoy the holidays and stay safe.
For more local news see www.newsoptimist.ca/news/news-local
Regional News-Optimist
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SANTA’S SCAV ENGER HUNT! 2020 of Outdoor Christmas Decor Ready……Set …Go! Put on your Santa hats and pile into the car. Remember to maintain your Social Bubble. The first Annual Santa Scavenger Hunt is about to begin. Your mission: To find these decorations on houses throughout the Battlefords. We would love to see you having fun, so please post pics of your Santa Scavenger Hunt on our Facebook page, battleford.newsoptimist Santa ________________________________ Rudolph ______________________________ Candy Cane ___________________________ Spiral Tree ____________________________ Wreath _______________________________ Joy Sign ______________________________ North Pole Sign ________________________ Christmas Train ________________________ Snowman _____________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Carolers ______________________________ Polar Bear_____________________________ Elf ___________________________________ Stocking ______________________________ Giant Present __________________________ Teddy Bear ____________________________ Angel _________________________________ Snowflake _____________________________ Peace Sign ____________________________ Toy Soldier ____________________________
Pointsettia ____________________________ Gingerbread Man_______________________ Snowglobe ____________________________ Disney Character _______________________ Mrs. Claus ____________________________ 3 Deer ________________________________ Sleigh ________________________________ Paw Patrol_____________________________ Snoopy _______________________________ Big Ornament __________________________
HOW TO PLAY: 1) Cut this out 2) Drive around town & find a minimum of 10 items on the list 3) Write down the addresses 4) Drop off at The Regional News Optimist, 892-104th St. N.B. or Battleford Furniture 192-24th St. Battleford 5) Watch the January 8th issue The Regional News Optimist for the winner 6) Have fun #santascavengerhunt 2020
Name: ________________________________ Phone Number: _________________________
1ST PRIZE - $500.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO BATTLEFORD FURNITURE • 2ND PRIZE $100.00 CASH 3RD PRIZE - $100.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM BLEND RESTAURANT & BAR Draws will be random. • Enter as often as you wish. • Entry deadline is Jan 4th 12 noon.
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WEEK SALE ON NOW! 192-24th Street West, Battleford Phone 306-937-7474 Fax 306-937-7676 www.battlefordfurniture.com mail@battlefordfurniture.com
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