Regional News-Optimist December 24, 2020 by Battlefords News Optimist

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

www.newsoptimist.ca

BATTLEFORD

FURNITURE

“Where “Wherethe thedifference difference isisworth worth the the drive” drive”

Thursday, December 24, 2020

Electrical

306-445-6707 www.nblukplumbing.com

Published every Thursday

Merry Christmas from our family to yours 306-937-7474

mail@battlefordfurniture.com

First sitting in the books for new Battlefords MLA

Play for Seniors

‘An honour to walk in that building’ By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The new MLA for the Battlefords has completed his first fall sitting at the Saskatchewan legislature. The sitting lasted only a couple of weeks, but it was a memorable one for Jeremy Cockrill, who took his seat in the Legislative Assembly after several months of work trying to win the seat in the provincial election in October. “It’s certainly an honour to walk in that building every day and get to go to work there,” said Cockrill to the News-Optimist. He called it “pretty neat to be a part of the legislative process.” But like all things in this COVID-19 year, things were different at the legislature than expected during his first legislative session. “It certainly looked different than normal — we were at 50 per cent of members in the House at any one time and so even voting looked different. Question Period was probably a little less

Jeremy Cockrill Battlefords MLA

raucous than normal just because there was fewer people, and no guests in the gallery, but it was still pretty amazing to be there for the first time and to participate in that.” It meant some differences during the swearing in period as well. “If you ask my wife, she’d be pretty upset that she wasn’t able to be there for the swearing in,” said Cockrill. Like most other things these days, there were fewer people and less pomp and circumstance for those ceremonies, but Cockrill was still excited to take his seat. It was “pretty neat to

be able to be sworn in and take my seat there, and see ‘J. Cockrill - the Battlefords’ on my desk there in the legislature.” It was a “good reminder about the people who helped me get here and then the people that I’m trying to serve every day.” The prime piece of business during the fall sitting was the reading of the Speech from the Throne, which opened the new Legislature session. It allowed the Sask. Party government to be able to meet some campaign promises. “The Speech from the Throne was really, from our perspective, it was an opportunity to just reiterate the commitments that we had made during the election campaign,” said Cockrill. “And you know, even though we only sat for two weeks in this fall session, we were already able to deliver on a number of our commitments – the home renovation tax credit, reducing small business taxes, reducing SaskPower bills by 10 Continued on Page 6

The Centre francophone des Battlefords and APF (association des parents fransaskoise) arranged a visual playdate for local children with Villa Pascal residents Saturday. Children played outside in the snow and also sang for the seniors who were able to watch and listen at a distance from their venue. You can find more photos from this event on our website www.newsoptimist.ca. Photos submitted by Oumnia Tahiri

The Gift of Giving Erin Katerynych, executive director of the Empty Stocking Fund Battlefords District Food & Resource Centre, accepts a $5,000 cheque from Ira Bird of Mosquito First Nation, who recently received a lump sum of cash. For a long time, he’s wanted to own his own home so he bought a house trailer. Bird also wanted to give back. Growing up, he witnessed and experienced hardships so he decided to donate to the Empty Stocking Fund to ensure children in need have food and toys this Christmas. Photo submitted

NOW IN STOCK ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS HOURS:

35 X 12/50R20 STARTING AT $

999.99 FOR A SET OF 4

Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Dr. Erin Ellis

(306) 937-8473 192-4th Ave. W • Industrial Park, Battleford

For detail of services offered see

www.maidstonedental.ca

119 Main Street | Maidstone 306.326.7777 @maidstonedentalsk

ŚĞĐŬ ŽƵƚ ŽƵƌ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ĨŽƌ ƵƉĐŽŵŝŶŐ ƐĂĨĞƚǇ ƚŝĐŬĞƚƐ Ͳ^ƚƵĚĞŶƚƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ůŝŵŝƚĞĚ ƚŽ ϵͲ ^ĂĨĞ ƉŚǇƐŝĐĂůͬƐŽĐŝĂů ĚŝƐƚĂŶĐŝŶŐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶĞĚ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚŽƵƚ Ăůů ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶƐ͘ ŶŚĂŶĐĞĚ ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞƐ ŝŶ ƉůĂĐĞ͘

READY FOR CHRISTMAS

In-Store made Hams Farm Raised Turkeys Minimum size 20 lbs.

ON SALE NOW!

northwestcollege.ca 306.937.5100

1181 100 St, North Battleford, SK S9A 0V3

(306) 445-3430

Page 2 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Onion Lake

Family alleges missing man held captive by gang By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

An Onion Lake Cree Nation man who went missing Dec. 15 was allegedly held captive and drugged by gang members, according to his family who spoke to the Battlefords Regional News-Optimist on the condition of anonymity. Twenty-five-year-old Charles Leonard Dillon was last seen after leaving

North Battleford at about 9 p.m. on Dec. 15. His family last heard from him at about 10:44 p.m. that night. Dillon was driving a grey Dodge Caravan and was wearing a black jacket and black pants when his family reported him missing to the Battlefords RCMP. His family tracked his van to the side of the road near Radisson on Highway 16 and also called Radisson RCMP. When his family arrived at the location, his van was no longer there.

His family said Dillon had pulled over on the side of Highway 16 between North Battleford and Saskatoon and that is when he was allegedly taken by gang members. The RCMP didn’t issue a missing person’s report but, Tuesday, Regina RCMP Media Relations spokesperson Jessica Murphy confirmed with the Battlefords Regional News-Optimist that Dillon was reported missing to the Battlefords RCMP on Dec. 15.

“He was reported to have been travelling to Saskatoon in his van,” said Murphy. “Battlefords RCMP conducted ongoing search efforts to locate him in the area.” Murphy added that police located Dillon days later on Dec. 21 in Saskatoon shortly after 2 a.m. Dillon’s family said he was held captive in a rural house outside of Saskatoon and drugged by alleged gang members. While allegedly being held captive,

Charles Leonard Dillon

he only had on one shoe. Regina RCMP media relations wouldn’t confirm or

deny these allegations. “Information regarding his health is considered private,” said Murphy on Dec. 22. Dillon’s family said the alleged gang members let him go telling him it was “a warning” and adding he was lucky to be alive. “We are so glad they let him go,” said Dillon’s family member. RCMP wouldn’t confirm or deny whether the incident involved alleged gang members.

Alleged Westside Outlaws arrested in chase seek bail By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

Three alleged Westside Outlaws gang members made more appearances in Lloydminster Provincial Court and remain in custody. Tonia Cantel, 22, from North Battleford, Juanita Wahpistikwan, 21, from Big Island Cree Nation, Kyle Lajimodiere from Cold Lake, and two youths from Big Island Lake Cree Nation were arrested Nov. 20 after a 150-kilometre police pursuit. The youths can’t be named in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Lajimodiere had an appearance Dec. 22 and the matter was adjourned to Jan. 26, 2021. He remains in custody. Cantel and Wahpistikwan both had appearances on Dec. 17 and bail hearings are now scheduled for both on Jan. 7, 2021. The five alleged Westside Outlaws gang members took police on a twohour 150-km chase that started in Lashburn and ended near Frenchman Butte. All five were charged with theft of a vehicle, storing a prohibited firearm, four counts of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, two counts of

Treaty Six Territory | Saskatchewan | Canada

carrying a concealed weapon, possessing a firearm without a license, being a vehicle with an

unauthorized firearm, possessing a prohibited firearm with accessible ammunition without

registration, possession a firearm with an altered serial number, endangering the safety of the public, and

flight from police. The charges against the five haven’t been proven in court.

Attempted murder - no bail for N.B. man By Lisa Joy

Fox was originally denied bail on Nov. 19 and Local Journalism Initiative he was scheduled to enter Reporter / News-Optimist a plea on Dec. 3 but on A North Battleford man that day the matter was charged with attempted adjourned to Dec. 10 for a murder has been denied show cause hearing. That bail in Prince Albert Pro- hearing was adjourned to vincial Court. Dec. 16 and then Dec. 22. Trent Fox, 19, had show The details of show cause cause hearings on Dec. 16 hearings are under a court and Dec. 22 but he was de- ordered ban on publicanied bail and a warrant of tion. committal was issued. Fox is accused of stabbing a 21-year-old man on HelmetsOct. Recommended 14 at a business in Prince Albert. He suffered ACCESS COMMUNICATION life-threateningCENTRE injuries and STARS took him to a

Saskatoon hospital. According to Prince Albert Police, Fox hitchhiked from North Battleford to Prince Albert earlier in the evening on Oct. 14.

Fox is now scheduled to appear in Prince Albert Provincial Court by CCTV on Dec. 29 to enter a plea and elect how he wants to be tried.

Mirasty manslaughter sentencing adjourned RECREATION toPARKS theAND new year

By John Cairns

Keenan Mirasty for man-

slaughter has been pushed Staff Reporter dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ back to the new year. ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ The sentencing of The sentencing had

been scheduled for Dec. 16 ⚫ North West Hockey Development December 20 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club in North Battleford provinDecember 21 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club cial court. Mirasty’s law⚫ North Battleford Lions Club December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club yer Michael Nolin indicat December 23 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 ed in his court appearance, ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords December 24 10:00 – 1:00 pm PARKS AND RECREATION however, that he had just ⚫ Rotary Club of the Battlefords PARKS AND RECREATION December 27 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 PARKS AND RECREATION taken over the file from PARKS AND RECREATION PARKS PARKS AND AND AND RECREATION RECREATION RECREATION Helmets Recommended PARKS December 28 2:30 – 3:30 pm Don MacKinnon who has Recommended Helmets Recommended ets RecommendedHelmets gone on leave from Legal December 29 1:30 – 3:30 pm ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE Helmets Helmets Helmets Recommended Recommended Recommended ⚫ Masks are mandatory in the facility Aid, and that he was not ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ December 30 1:30 – 3:30 pm FREE PUBLIC SKATING ⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ACCESS COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION CENTRE ACCESS CENTRE dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ prepared to proceed that MUNICATION CENTRE dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ ⚫ Maximum Spectators = 30 December 31 12:00 – 2:00pm Helmets Recommended ACCESS ACCESS COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION CENTRE CENTRE ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ACCESS COMMUNICATION CENTRE 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 morning. ⚫ North West Hockey Development ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ December 20 1:30 – 3:30 ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ pm ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, except if ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ ⚫ Bonaventure Lions Club members are from the same household ⚫ North West Hockey Development Judge Dan O’Hanlon December 20 1:30 ––⚫3:30 pm December 21 1:30 – 3:30 ⚫pm North West Hockey Development 20 1:30 3:30 pm North West Hockey Development 1:30December – 3:30 pm ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club Dec 24 10:00 –––– 3:30 1:00 pm ⚫ Bonaventure ⚫ ⚫ ⚫North North NorthWest West WestLions Hockey Hockey Hockey Development Development Development December 20 December December 20 20 1:30 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm pm Club Bonaventure Lions Club ⚫ Bonaventure Lions indicated that he was inDecember 21 1:30 ––⚫3:30 pm ⚫Club North Battleford Lions Club December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ Lions Club ⚫ ⚫Bonaventure Bonaventure Bonaventure Lions Lions Club Club 1:30December – 3:30 pm 21 1:30 3:30 pm ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫ North Battleford December ––– 3:30 pm December December 21 21 21 1:30 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm Kinsmen Club ⚫ North Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫Club North Battleford Elks Club PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED ⚫ Battleford Kinsmen Club ⚫ ⚫North North North Battleford Battleford Kinsmen Kinsmen Club Club clined to adjourn the sen⚫ North Battleford Lions December 22 10:00 ––North 1:00 ⚫ Battleford Lions–Club December 23pm 1:30 3:30 dŚĂŶŬ ǇŽƵ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ĨŽůůŽǁŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐůƵďƐ ⚫ North Battleford Lions Club 10:00 – 1:00 pm December 22 10:00 1:00 pm ⚫Club St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 ⚫ North Battleford Lions ⚫ ⚫pm North North Battleford Battleford Lions Lions Club Club December 22 10:00 – 1:00 pm December December 22 22 10:00 10:00 – 1:00 1:00 pm pm Dec 27 12:00 – 2:00 pm ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club ⚫3:30 North Battleford Elks Club tencing anyway given that ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords ⚫ North Battleford Elks Club ⚫ ⚫ North North Battleford Battleford Elks Elks Club Club December 23 1:30 – pm December 24 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ St.#7336 Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 1:30December – ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ &Z ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐŬĂƚŝŶŐ͗ 3:30 pm23 23 1:30 –⚫ 3:30 pm St. Knights of Columbus December 1:30 –––Joseph 3:30 pm December December 23 23 1:30 1:30 3:30 pm ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 ⚫ of Columbus #7336 ⚫ ⚫St. St. St.Joseph Joseph Joseph Knights Knights of of⚫ Columbus Columbus #7336 #7336 Rotary Club of the Battlefords Knights four people had wished to ⚫ Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords December 24 10:00 – 1:00 pm of the Battlefords December 27Club 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫ Club of the Battlefords ⚫ ⚫Kiwanis Kiwanis Kiwanis Club Club of ofof the the Battlefords Battlefords ⚫ Kiwanis Club the Battlefords 10:00 – 1:00 pm ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 December 24 10:00 1:00 pm December 24 10:00 –– 1:00 pm December 24 2:30 10:00 –Kiwanis 1:00 pm ⚫ Rotary Club of the Battlefords Dec 28 –⚫⚫–2:00pm 3:30 pm appear for the sentencing Rotary Club of the Battlefords 306.634.9556 ⚫ of the Battlefords ⚫ ⚫Rotary Rotary RotaryClub Club Club of ofof the the Battlefords Battlefords ⚫ Rotary Club the Battlefords December 27 12:00 ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 December 28 2:30 – Branch 3:30 pm 12:00 –2:00pm December 27 12:00 12:00 –2:00pm December 27 12:00 –2:00pm ⚫–2:00pm Royal Canadian Legion #70 ⚫ Royal Legion Branch #70 ⚫ ⚫ Royal RoyalCanadian Canadian Canadian Legion Legion Branch Branch #70 #70 #70 December 27 12:00 ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch hearing, but were unable to ⚫ North West Hockey Development December 28 28 2:30 – 3:30 pm December 29 1:30 – 3:30 pm 2:30December – 3:30 pm29 December 28 2:30 2:30 2:30 –––3:30 3:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm pm December attend. 28 2:30 – 3:30 pm Dec 1:30 – pm ⚫ Masks are mandatory in the facility Bonaventure Lions Club December 29 29 1:30 – 3:30 pmpm December 30 1:30 – 3:30 pm are mandatory December 1:30 ––– 3:30 December December 29 29 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm 1:30December –⚫3:30 pm29 The matters for Mirasty ⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 ⚫ Masks in the facility 1:30 – 3:30 pm ⚫ ⚫ ⚫ Masks Masks Masks are are are mandatory mandatory mandatory in in in the the the facility facility facility Masks are mandatory the facility December 30 1:30 – ⚫3:30 pm North Battleford Club ⚫ Masks are mandatory in December 30 1:30 –––Kinsmen 3:30 pm December December 30 30 1:30 1:30 3:30 3:30 pm pm ⚫ Maximum Spectators = 30 December 31 12:00 – in2:00pm Maximum Participants ====30 1:30December –⚫3:30 pm30 have been adjourned to ⚫ ⚫Maximum Maximum Maximum Participants Participants Participants 30 30 30the facility ⚫3:30 Maximum Participants =⚫30 ⚫ Dec 1:30 – 3:30 pm 30 1:30 – pm Maximum Participants ⚫ 3====metre distancing must be maintained, except if Spectators 30 December 31 12:00 – 2:00pm ⚫ ⚫Maximum Maximum Maximum Spectators Spectators 30 30= 30 Spectators 30 December December 31 31 12:00 12:00 12:00 ––– 2:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm December 31 Spectators Jan. 18. A new sentencing 12:00 ⚫– 2:00pm North Battleford Lions Club = 30⚫⚫ ⚫⚫⚫3Maximum members are from the sameififififhousehold distancing must except Spectators = maintained, 30 December 31 12:00 ⚫ –Maximum 33Maximum distancing be maintained, except ⚫ ⚫metre 3metre metre metre distancing distancing must mustbe be be maintained, maintained, except except ⚫ 32:00pm metre distancing must be ⚫ maintained, except ifmust

This paper is proudly printed locally in Estevan.

PARKS AND RECREATION

are from household ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, except if members are from the same household members members are are from fromthe the thesame same same household household ⚫ North Battleford Dec 31 12:00members –Elks 2:00 pmthe samemembers areClub from household members are from the same household PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED ⚫ St. Joseph Knights of Columbus #7336 PUBLIC SKATING IS IS UNSUPERVISED PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC SKATING SKATING SKATING IS ISUNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED UNSUPERVISED PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT CHILDREN ⚫ Kiwanis ClubCHILDREN of the Battlefords PUBLIC SKATING IS UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN CHILDREN MUST MUST MUST BE BE SUPERVISED SUPERVISED SUPERVISED BY BY BY AN AN ANADULT ADULT ADULT ADULT MUST BEBE SUPERVISED BY AN CHILDREN MUST BE SUPERVISED BYwww.Cityofnb.ca AN ADULT Register online at and click on leisure ⚫ Rotary Club ofCHILDREN the Battlefords MUST BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT ⚫ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #70 Please note that any 2020 tax balances that are unpaid as of December 31, 2020, will become arrears on January 1, 2021 and such arrears will be subject to a 10% penalty. Online payments might take up to 48 hours to process.

⚫ Masks are mandatory in the facility For Holiday hours please visit ⚫ Maximum Participants = 30 www.cityofnb.ca ⚫ Maximum Spectators = 30 ⚫ 3 metre distancing must be maintained, except if Celebrate Canada on members are from the same household New Year’s Eve

G IS UNSUPERVISED E SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT

WDM North Battleford Years of Service The Western Development Museum’s Board of Directors, management and staff recognizes the following individual and thanks them for their dedication in preserving Saskatchewan heritage. Congratulations!

Dec 31 7:00pm

YEARS

King Hill • Thank you to

Richard Lesann

Ensure physical distancing and please remain in your vehicles to ensure compliance with provincial regulations.

WDM.CA

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 restrictions 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.

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 3

North Battleford financial picture improving By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The City of North Battleford has been provided its latest financial update for October and things are looking better than expected. In the recent report from Director of Finance

Steve Brown, it appears the city is on track for a overall surplus of $2,202,539 by Dec. 31. “Numbers are still in line,” said Brown, “in fact we are better than anticipated.” He cited a number of improvements in their operations this year such as

moving to a base tax for 2020 and through lower contractor expenses for managing the water treatment plants by going with an outside manager for the entire year. As well, a number of savings have been found in different departments and they are seeing better

financial controls. As a result the financial picture is on track, even with the disruption and loss of revenue due to COVID-19. According to Brown’s memo to council dated Dec. 14, in the General Government category, the city was looking at a sur-

plus of $1,209,640 as of Dec. 31. The city reported overall tax revenue was better than budget by $447, 335 and outside unconditional grants better than budget by $855,254 thanks to federal restart money from the federal government. As well, wages, travel

and other expenditures were trending down by $200,000, with travel under budget due to COVID-19. In other categories, fire and protective services was seeing a $100,000 surplus, Leisure Services $200,000, operations $300,000 and utility $150,000.

Arena expansion on the horizon in Battleford By John Cairns Staff Reporter

A major project is on the long-term horizon in Battleford and that is expansion of the Battleford Arena. Council heard from director of parks and recreation Jordan Schechtel about the arena expansion at a recent town council meeting. The expansion/ renovation is a long-term project for the town that is not expected to see construction happen for another decade, likely around 2030. The town is nevertheless getting the ball rolling on concepts for what the facility would look like. Administration was seeking direction on a conceptual design so the engineering firm Associated Engineering could finalize drawings as well as develop artistic renderings. Three arena designs were presented to council in a report back in May. The one council went with is considered the most basic design, and has common elements associated with all three designs presented. The design includes a new canopy on the front entrance to keep snow from piling at the door, removal of the wall separating the staff area and management office, removal of dressing room “4” to allow a bigger lobby area or possibly stairs to a lounge area, and construction of four new

dressing rooms and the building of one new dressing room out of a storage area. A second design that was proposed also keeps these elements, but the lobby would be expanded to the north by removing the wall between the lobby and the arena. The third design included an upstairs lounge above the current lobby, and an elevator, stairwell and fire escape. The construction costs were estimated at $1.472 million for design one, $1.626 million for design two and $2.099 million for design three; contingency, tax and engineering would also progressively go up. When adding those additional costs in, the first design’s price tag came to about $1.863 million. The second design was estimated at $2.058 million and the third design $2.655 million. Estimates were within plus/minus 25 percent. In the end council went with the administration recommendation to proceed with the first design. According to administration’s report, this design addresses all the current issues with the arena, which includes small and limited numbers of dressing rooms, a small lobby, and a lack of storage. A question had been posed by council previously about going ahead with the first design but adding in construction of the elevator,

Potential plans for the Battleford Arena, courtesy Town of Battleford

stairwell, fire escape and upstairs lounge at a later date. Schechtel said in talking with Associated Engineering this could be done, however it may only result in an estimated $200,000 savings with the Town on the hook for more engineering, administration and mobilization fees. Battleford Arena currently is home to the Battlefords Beaver Blues senior hockey team and the female U18 Battlefords Sharks, and accommodates several other local teams and organizations. In speaking to the News-Optimist, Schechtel indicated the immediate next step for the arena project is “finishing up with

Good month for building permits in NB By John Cairns Staff Reporter

It was another good month for building permits in North Battleford. Numbers for November show nine permits for

$1,833,600, well ahead of two permits for $84,000 for the same month a year earlier. For the year to date there have been 90 permits issued for North Battleford for a permit

value of $23,515,928, well ahead of the 82 permits for $10,942,300 for the same period in 2019. North Battleford had already topped the 2019 numbers for building permits earlier this year.

the conceptual drawings, now that we know which one council wants to proceed with.” Some artistic renderings of what the newly-upgraded Battleford Arena would look like will be drawn up.

Schechtel said the drawings and renderings would then be presented to the public for an opportunity for feedback, after which further refinements would be done. Further along, construc-

Structure fire doused on 101st Street By John Cairns Staff Reporter

North Battleford Fire Department are reporting they responded to a structure fire Friday, Dec. 18, on the 1400 block of 101st Street in the city. The call came just before 10 p.m. that night.

On arrival, fire personnel found “signs of a working structure fire and heavy black smoke exiting the building through the roof,” according to the news release from the fire department. They report that the first crew made a successful initial interior attack and contained the fire to

to you and your family, from the Staff at

Staff A long time local lawyer with Saskatchewan Legal Aid Commission in North Battleford is among the recipients of the designation Queen’s Counsel in 2020. Don MacKinnon is

one of 15 lawyers getting the “Q.C.” designation. MacKinnon has been practising law since 1983. The appointments recommended by a committee of Saskatchewan’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the Chief

The Carpet People 306.445.1221

2741-99 Street North Battleford th

Santa stopped by with a truck load of

OVER 1000

windshields a month early and we have to get rid of them before the new year!

GLASS LTD. GLASS EXPERTS AUTO | RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL

www.kkglass.ca

1601 - 100th Street, North Battleford, SK.

Ph: 306-446-2227 Fax: 306-446-3511

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY 306-445-5828

the upper floor. They report that due to many voids in the roof area of the home, extensive work was needed to fully extinguish the fire. All occupants were accounted for upon arrival by the fire department; the fire is believed to have been human-caused.

Local Legal Aid lawyer named QC

STOP BY FOR A DEAL!

Happy Holidays

tion drawings would need to be done and funding would need to be found, possibly including seeking external funding from the province. But that is “years down the road,” said Schechtel.

Battleford Agency Tribal Chiefs For up to date information please visit our facebook page 1282 101 Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 0Z8

(306) 446-1400

Justice of the Court of Appeal for Saskatchewan or the Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench and past presidents of the Saskatchewan branch of the Canadian Bar Association and the Law Society of Saskatchewan.

Page 4 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Share your view! Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223 Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

Letter

Golden words on children’s rights

Dear Editor Recently, the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute, whose goal is healthy children, posted a message on Children’s rights to celebrate National Child Day Nov. 20, and throughout the year. Every child has the right to: • physical, emotional, social and spiritual health and development; • parents who love them and protect them from violence; • rest and relaxation; • healthy and nutritious food; and • to play. Thank you, Saskatchewan Prevention Institute. Your worlds are worth their weight in gold. Richard W. Hiebert North Battleford

Letter

Separation means emancipation

Dear Editor From 1963 to 1970 the Front de libération du Québec was responsible for 200 bombings, many robberies and the death of six people. Partly in response to the FLQ’s actions, rose René Lévesque’s Parti Québécois. Federal Liberal governments since the 1970 October Crisis have given in to Quebec demands. For example, Quebec is exempt from the federal government’s carbon tax. This gives them a significant competitive advantage over other provinces in Canada. Quebec is given $13.2 billion of the $19.1 equalization grant. The Energy East Pipeline, that was to feed crude oil refineries in Atlantic Canada, was stopped at the Quebec border because Quebec did not want it. Yet, Quebec has enjoyed billions of dollars in revenue from the West. Alberta has sent more money to the East than it received fro 55 years now. Quebec shows its gratitude to the West by buying their oil from countries with dictatorships. poor human rights records and lax environmental laws. Quebec, last year, had a $4.5 surplus and was talking about heated sidewalks in Montreal. The dictators in the East are interested only in revenue from the West’s resources. The NDP want all hydrocarbons (fuels) banned by 2030 and the Green Party sooner. The Liberals want hydrocarbons eliminated by 2050. This will make farming, forestry industries, mining and travel extremely expensive or non-existent. It is time to tell the East to keep their environmental laws, gun laws, federal debt and scandals and look at terms of separation for Western Canada. Only then will we be masters of our own destiny. Gordon Dykstra North Battleford

Bouquet

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

A Happy Christmas wish to Robert Hoglund of St. Walburg. Your kind words are appreciated. Editor

Regional

The Night Before Christmas By Helen Row Toews, News-Optimist Contributor

*This poem is in no way meant to trivialize the impact this pandemic has had on our world, or make light of anyone’s suffering. I hope only to bring a smile. Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the land Hot water was running as people washed hands. Each facemask was hung on the top of a chair, With hopes it would dry in the warm evening air. “It’s Christmas,” folks chortled. “Yippee!” they declared. Yet parents in one house were totally scared, Of jolly St. Nick, walking into their dwelling, And spreading his germs, (though the gifts were compelling). They worried that night once the kids ran to bed, All happy for Santa to come in his sled, And bring them great toys — though — their parents expected, The kind that were sanitized, washed and inspected.

When, out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, Max knew in a moment what must be the matter. Away to the window he flew like a deer, Threw open the curtains and took a good peer. “It’s him!” the man hollered. “Get ready. GET SET!” Then motioned for silence (Irene was upset). And grabbing their spray bottles, filled to the brim, With germicide able to make your head swim. They crouched near the entrance, most quiet; most still, And though they quite liked him, and bore no ill will, They waited for Santa, to take him off guard, And hose the elf down with complete disregard! Then poor Santa entered, in some disarray, Delivering toys had been awful that day. He was scoured and scrubbed, a right spotless old elf, (If you could have seen him you’d thought so yourself.)

Like bottles of Softsoap placed under the tree, And Lysol and hand wipes and paper (to pee). Or maybe a box of those blue rubber gloves, Or lotion, or Javex (like everyone loves).

He wore a red mask pulled up over his nose, And hand sanitizer had ruined his clothes. His eyes how they sparkled, his laugh was quite merry… At least until Max and Irene went all Harry.

So later, ole Max and Irene, with their phones, Sat down on the sofa, to wait, all alone. They checked the statistics, the news and the score, While keeping a beady eye fixed on the door.

‘Cause when he bent down to get toys from his pack, Ole Max gave a yell and jumped up to attack. They gave him both barrels. They spared no expense, (And clutching a bagful of toy’s no defence.)

They didn’t want Santa to sneak in their home, Or hop down the chimney and through the place roam! They wanted to know he was properly clean, Before he should enter—who knows where he’d been!

Claus tossed out the gifts, to his team gave a whistle, And the sleigh powered in through the flue like a missile. But I heard him exclaim, as they left through the hall, “Merry Christmas, and safety, and health to you all!”

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

news-optimist

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

Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

Administration

Joyce Wappel Office Manager, Aliya Cooke DTI/Receptionist

Editorial

Jayne Foster Editor - John Cairns - Lisa Joy Reporters

Advertising Sales

Candace Mack-Horton Sales Manager Noah Cooke

Composition

Claude Paradis Prepress Manager

Circulation

Grace Merritt - Melissa Pitkeathley, Inserters

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Enjoy a KISS Christmas

Christmas 2020 approaches. Amongst much hand-wringing and waiting with bated breath for direction from those on high as to how we can celebrate the holiday, my wise daughter made an interesting observation. With a sigh she noted how it’s really just nice to relax. Amen. During the more than two decades I worked in the News-Optimist newsroom in various capacities, Christmas was everyone’s least favourite time of year; not just in the newsroom, but throughout the plant. As we all scrambled to meet seemingly impossible deadlines piled one upon another to accommo-

Observations from

Isolation By Becky Doig date the hated “statutory holidays,” Christmas was something that just “happened” at my house. Nevertheless a few simple family traditions evolved. Christmas Eve was celebrated with a

“fundue” party. This initially included my little family of four and maybe a friend our two. As time marched on boyfriends, girlfriends and other pals were included, but it was never a big deal. Forward

A Christmas Memory By R.H. Wood

North Battleford

T’was the night before Christmas or thereabouts. I was nearing the end of my first residency stint in the Western Infirmary, Glasgow. It was a medical appointment under Professor Sir Edward Wayne and a most stressful experience. Professor Wayne, who

The

ood Pile

was also the Queen’s physician in Scotland, was knighted for his involvement in the .08 alcohol standardization – I was not, fortuitously or otherwise, one of his

guinea pigs. A small group of residents, found ourselves in an elevator. At the controls was an obliging workman complete with a bucket of tools that indicated his function, status and importance as do stethoscopes of varying complexity draped around doctors’ necks. One of our group with a real fancy stethoscope was brought

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 5

to two married children, spouses, children, in-laws, out-laws, elderly parents moving in close by and assorted special friends and the “fundue” has become a monster. A fun monster, but still a monster. My daughter is enjoying the opportunity to give it a rest this year. She was the primary host for that craziness. She said it was something she would be making lists for weeks in advance and have thoughts about it galloping around in her mind when she should have been sleeping. We scaled back the gift giving several years ago, opting for an adult gift exchange based on a draw. That, too, was nixed this year. The draw approach wasn’t a big burden, but since we aren’t able to get together and no one wants

to go shopping, it got a pass. The focus is on making the holidays fun for a couple of young boys and just kicking back and enjoying the lights, the smells and the memories. I’ve had time to work on a few “Secret Santa” projects that I wouldn’t have even considered other years. Just simple gifts to give for fun. This week my grandsons and I made gingerbread cookies, something in other years we had to scrunch in amongst other activities like going to concerts. We had fun and didn’t feel pressured or rushed. Our family maintains our “bubble” after a fashion, but for the most part keep to our individual households. We won’t be

getting together for a Christmas feast, in any traditional way, although we will come up with some way the great-grandparents can see the kids, even if it has to be from a distance. Of course, I feel for anyone who is truly alone this time of year and I know some of those people personally. So, since we aren’t caught up in all the hustle and bustle of the culinary Olympics known as Christmas, we can take some of that extra time to reach out to those people in any way we can. I believe the acronym is attributed to the United States Navy Seals, but Keep It Simple Stupid applies to Christmas 2020. Enjoy. Take care. Be safe.

to earth when asked, “Can you get America on that thing?” Without turning his head our elevator operator pressed the button and suddenly asked two questions. Firstly, “What is the cure for water on the brain?” Silence. Then, “What is the cure for water on the knees?” Silence. Before letting us out, he provided the required answers in broad Scots. “A tap on the heid and drainpipe troosers.”

This brief episode 60 years ago at that wonderful institution is clearly remembered to this day. The workman raised our spirits, enlightened and amused us and in my case humbled me and made me grateful for people like him in the world. With the humility of Tiny Tim, I take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and stress-free Christmas season.

Tap on heid

Christmas Day most popular day to get engaged Did you know Christmas Day is the most popular day to get engaged? According to the 2020

WeddingWire Newlywed Report, more couples who were married in 2019 got engaged on Christmas Day than any other day during the year. Christmas Eve was the second most popular day to pop the question, while the Sunday before Christmas Eve came in fourth (New Year’s Day rounded out the top three). The appeal of

Christmastime proposals helped make December the most popular month to get engaged, as more than 19 per cent of couples who married in 2019 got engaged in the final month of the year. July proved the second most popular month to pop the question, as nine per cent of couples who wed in 2019 reported getting engaged in July.

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY We own a heritage building and vacant lot, 1132/42 101 Street. Close to banks and the new cinema and Giant Tiger. The building is 7000 square feet and at one time housed two businesses. Due to COVID, our financial priorities now are not able to include development of these properties. We want to sell these properties. We would entertain proposals for the building and lot, or the building by itself. The building requires significant renovations, but has loads of character, and could be used for a variety of purposes. Full basement with 10' ceiling. All it is waiting for is a new owner with ideas!

Tradition still has a place in wedding proposals, as 84 percent of proposers reported asking on bended knee, while 65 per cent acknowledged asking parents’ permission prior to popping the question.

Randy Weekes

MLA Biggar-Sask Valley Constituency randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca Toll free number 1-877-948-4880

From all of us at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate The Battlefords, we would like to wish everyone a very

Merry Christmas

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

1541 - 100th Street, North Battleford 306-445-5555

Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Premier Scott Moe’s 2020 Christmas Message

Christmas Message from Russ Mirasty, Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan

Hello folks. Well, Christmas is almost here and I want to take a moment to wish everyone a happy and joyful holiday season. This year, the celebration will be a little different. We’re asking you to gather with only those in your household because of the Covid-19 pandemic. We have to do this to control the spread of the virus to protect one another. I know it’s disappointing. We all want to get together with family and friends during the holidays. But we’re doing this for one Christmas only. Very soon, we will begin a vaccination program in Saskatchewan. It will be rolled out across the province in the

Tansi. Bonjour. Hello. I’m pleased to bring you greetings on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, at this special time of year. This is a holiday season unlike any other. We cannot gather in large groups, but we can still connect with our family and friends on the phone and online. It’s particularly important to reach out to those who may be alone. This is a challenging time for everyone, and even more so for some. I am so grateful to our health care workers, educators, and others who continue to serve throughout our communities. Many people are experiencing stress right now, especially business owners, workers in grocery stores and restaurants, performing artists, and leaders who must make difficult decisions in every sector. Thank you, everyone, for doing your best to support public health guidelines. I’m grateful every day for all of our First Responders and Military personnel, who work in high risk situations to serve and protect us throughout the year. I also want to recognize and thank our Saskatchewan volunteers, who are the backbone of our many cultural, sports, youth, and seniors’ organizations. Difficult times can bring out the best in us. I’m grateful to live in this province, surrounded by so many thoughtful and caring people. We have more challenges ahead, but we can and will get through this together. My wife Donna and I look forward to a time when we can greet you in person with a handshake or a hug. Season’s Greetings, from my family to yours. mitho-makosīkīsikanisik kahkithaw nītha ikwa niwīcāyāmākanak kitatamiskātinān

months to come. It’s going to take a while to get everyone vaccinated. So we need to continue to take precautions - wear your mask, wash your hands frequently and practice social distancing. But believe me when I say this: better days are ahead in

Saskatchewan. Life will return to normal and in a year’s time, we will come together again, to enjoy the holidays the way we should the way we always have. The meaning of Christmas hasn’t changed. This is a time of reflection, of reverence, a time to reconnect with the ones we love. For many of us, this is the season when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour. Jesus calls on us to love another, to carry one another’s burdens. Those of us who have been blessed in our lives have a sacred obligation, a duty, to reach out to, to provide comfort, love and support where we can. That’s the spirit of Christ-

mas. And this year, one of the most difficult years we have ever experienced, we have seen the spirit of Christmas at work in every corner of this province. In Melfort, a Licenced Practical Nurse named Laura Alexander wanted to shine a ray of hope for patients, families and her co-workers. And last month, she did just that – literally. Laura went out and bought some beautiful, blue Christmas lights, and put them on a balcony above the entrance of Melfort Hospital. Those lights spell the word Hope. Laura says she works with Continued on Page 7

Message from Leader of the Opposition Ryan Meili My wife Mahli and I watched a Christmas movie the other night. I’m a sucker for a good Christmas movie. And there was this scene at the end where the family was just sitting around the living room, telling stories, enjoying each other’s company. And I got a little lump in my throat, thinking of my family, and how much we’ll miss the simple act of gathering together this year. Because this year we’ll be staying home, we won’t see my folks or my wife’s folks, our kids won’t see their grandparents – and that’s hard. We want them to stay safe, we

want to stay safe. And we know it’s the right thing to do. But it’s hard. We also know that other families are struggling with much harder challenges right now.  The grandmother who can’t hold her new grandchild. The family with a loved one in longterm care they can’t visit. So many people out of work, with bills piling up. The small business owner just trying to keep the doors open on a labour of love. The frontline workers putting themselves at risk to keep all of us safe. This has been a hard year in many ways. And we’ve reason to believe that next year

will be better. But please, if you have the ability, give some thought to how you might reach out to someone who is struggling. You could shovel a neighbour’s walk, or drop off some cookies. Volunteer to safely serve a meal. Zoom or Facetime with someone you know who could use a call. This is the kind of thing Saskatchewan people excel at. Particularly at Christmas, Saskatchewan people care and we show it. And if you’re struggling, please, ask for help. Call the healthline at 811, or the Kids Help Phone, or call your

MLA – that’s what we’re here for. Finally, in this time of generosity and reflection – the strangest holiday season I hope any of us will ever experience in this strangest of years – let’s share our appreciation for those who are working hard to keep us safe. To our children’s teachers, to our grandparents’ care aides, to our first responders and small business owners – thank you for everything you do, day in and day out. May you all have a healthy and happy holiday season, and look forward to more time together and a brighter 2021.

First sitting in the books for new Battlefords MLA ward-looking aspects of the Throne Speech from his perspective. “Looking forward in the Throne Speech, we also talked about things that we are going to be doing in the upcoming budget year, and so there’s some exciting

Continued from Page 1 per cent. So for us, that was an opportunity to show that we’re serious about doing the things that we promised the people in Saskatchewan that we would do.” There were also for-

things there in terms of the Sask. Advantage scholarship, continuing care aides in the province, new childcare spaces in the next couple years, as well as the Active Families benefit as another example.” A big highlight for

Cockrill was his first speech in the legislature. It turned out to be a little different from what he was used to seeing on TV. “One thing that is a bit surprising is how many people are talking when you are talking,” said Cockrill. “You have to be pretty focussed on what you want to say. So that was a great opportunity to just introduce myself to the other members, as well as the people in this province that I haven’t met. I thanked some people that were pretty key in the cam-

We’re HERE because YOU’RE here. 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

RDS

B AT T

LEFO

ne O

a Region

THE

al egion

t s i t m i s t i p m o i pst w ords

s rd fo E C7OU! tle WELP 0Y

NEE

nce ords si

ttlef the Ba

1908

EFO

TL BAT

ITURE ”

rth th rive is wo the d rence worth ce is feren Richer

FURN

e dif ere th “Wh

iffe the d

0 $100,00

”

ve e dri

t Ba 5 4

The Western Development Museum’s Board of Directors, management and staff recognizes the w w y individual and thanks them for their following a d rs y u yuTrhsda eTrh hedereyv dedication in preserving Saskatchewan heritage. Psuhbelids ev 30

lu w.

r gS AnV I NfGoS Congratulations! i s e d T New G R E At office os old pster 30 CO

t. is ism pti sopstiom w.n we.nwew ww ww

ere “Wh

g Servin

WDM North Battleford Years of Service 7 -6 -4300

46 th Street 306-4 - 100 ialist! 1281 ir spec ur repa MACS yo e ar We DING INCLU AN

YO ER

attlef The B

FFER

ME O

ED TI

LIMIT

TA K

DV E A

LECT ON SE

ANT

MBER

CE DS DE

PLIANC

E AP ID HOM

KITCHE

AGE

5, 2018

t time the firs ok for new lo selves. says, for them sheid also really e Fo r Germ be a By Jayn ing to the staff to ito go Ed m t’s “I for Interi the place gn for ord nice as well.” ’s tytw licigh w desi ef ty, ill bethnee sera The ne in Battl an- work re wng cuterigy ardi he ce C T eg fi R onnal st h an by of tiio d dict addu itplthes post cdre w onalize coentm ra fi ’s an ed e ty g at en ci in im gre at l th ldar stem ent-. lo has be t an , ca idteth erds cr beeringsain em mplsy er sadidLinsne’tBuihe is garim Bat ngl fibe reinal . adaBPatos ght ha nmda dinga ex change ististil anys traihe no e S shet, is ar ve r m e . en se to m adddsther eid bega says ngw co stalled as shean n as Bat wtorakine Staff dbe shand have is ou s- ed Gut anen mrl ab t it in ly ed in m er po ge he m at to co S e. le ar B k r. opMP hen20th pe man fice wee hu RC d ap s pe onths, en of wary 14 t nu ords klyherlasan documentarye- kn few m be ouJa will tlefow Sut quic r in ss For a CMP has didngwonit’as oufis ceab riof m- sibl rs burlilan nt W5 ow e BJeattlra cu g e. R co ne e in ce th t he ce th re fi ys ut ds en in of , S shed sa a st2016 sa tlefor a perman imge d Cas idndthed po e crin t war from Bui t ld ou e iatitimon anater saexlm pA n,hibu citeed Inea pers sossmoc antd B . abro without officer. ke , bu L -odeablyheta dser d Insp arweas fi. hen re ng an the ann A Corzi w pl d to ry ei t tc ob mandi P transfer re Saska- ef ta w e. gn pr olic ect to the a PPos de Saska cummshene ne Ger ad yesiar desihi w gn of s do an RCM rland to s C is sp ef fo ouietrth th e as ofrChi pay re Mayor ea steill in sam uthe ilding, abrl d w new Cana- design to of the bu ter of John S cording to rlanth het’s 18 proxi- Sut“I ac at th.e says character of le toon, BEBRat5er,, 20in apust.” st a m ioyus robuildings,” asevan Mn not ju r and paint. Eya ug s pr C A it’ t E or R is D os so ing “July 15 da P a really g plaste mately understand d was Germsheid. MBER redoin ant it to be Post co that NOVE anada rporated, “My “I w opener so this herlan ntral The C inco et ce sp. Sut s, that In ned to their katoon lours will be t she doesn’h nice ey can say, ye re-assig office in Sas vacan- she says, buve too muc a people th the wait.” saying t district of some ld the want to gi wants Canad y was worada Post isn’ ey plan e to she enjo Can becaus ere,” Bater week. when th says his away as omers to about the SALE

nerw red k e e ansfer s t d P n RCM ... Sutherla

B L A CK Y A D I R F EVEN

paign over the last number of months. And I just talked about what I think our government is doing for the people of this province and how I hope to contribute to that. “I’d say that was almost a more special moment for me than even getting sworn in — just being called by the speaker to stand up and then be able to share some of my thoughts with the legislature.” Next up for the coming weeks and months is a return to the constituency while the legislature is on

FER E OF D TIM E T I E OF LIM N TA G

atigue f s s e L ed at xpect

YEARS

Joyce Smith

WDM.CA

break. “I believe the parliamentary calendar has us returning sometime in late March. We are adjourned to the call of the Speaker, so our government House leader and the NDP ‘s opposition house leader and the Speaker, they’ll figure out that calendar. “But I expect to be mostly here in the constituency over the next number of months. I do sit on one committee (Treasury Board) that meets quite regularly in Regina so I do have some back-and-forth on that.” Right now Cockrill is in the process of setting up his constituency office, which is located at the same location as Herb Cox’s old office at 1991 100th Street. Until that is set up, he can be reached at office@jeremycockrill.ca, or by phone at 306-445-5195. Cockrill did some meeting with constituents last week and planned more meetings this week. He says constituency work and dealing with their issues and concerns will be a big part of what he will be focusing on in the near future. “Constituency outreach is really going to be the priority in the next couple of months but obviously once we return to the spring session, then it will be pretty busy down in Regina again for a while.”

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 7

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Style for Christmas

2020

y l l o J y l l o HOLIDAY H

HAVE A On Dec. 16, owners of Styles Plus, Joyce Smith and Shirley Maze, dropped by Battlefords District Care Centre with a special donation of over 60 new pieces of clothing. Recreation therapists Jackie Young and Lori Nachtegaele will package and distribute the gifts to residents in time for Christmas. Also included in the package was a season’s pass to the Western Development Museum’s Light Up the Village for the staff to enjoy. Shown above are Jackie Young, Shirley Maze, Lori Nachtegaele and Joyce Smith. Photo submitted

Chamber announces funding for network initiative Staff

The Battlefords Chamber of Commerce has announced it is receiving funding for its local Training and Employment Network initiative. The TEN is funded through Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) and administered by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce. It has been developed to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, says the Chamber, and will provide support to communities and companies to integrate Indigenous, immigrant, youth, and women workers into the workforce. Through this network, the Battlefords Chamber receives up to $10,000 in funding to develop and implement a Community Action Plan which will identify gaps in regional labour markets, and create opportunities for employers and workers. The intent, says the Chamber, “is to provide clear and locally coordinated pathways for workers to be identified, as well as to present learning

opportunities to enhance skills using a combination of existing and new training for employers.” “The TEN initiative provides a great opportunity for the Battlefords Chamber of Commerce to partner with local agencies to prepare indigenous youth and newcomers to support local employers with their labour needs,” says Battlefords Chamber Vice Chair Melanie Roberts in a statement. “Our hope is this initiative has positive impacts on both business sustainability and social investment.” Several other chambers are also participating in the TEN including Estevan, Humboldt, Kindersley, Lloydminster, Moose Jaw, Nipawin, Prairie Sky (Warman & Martensville), Prince Albert, Swift Current, Weyburn, and Yorkton. “There is no question that Saskatchewan businesses and our workforce have been severely impacted by COVID-19. As chambers of commerce, we are in a unique posi-

tion to bring together efforts, align growth and work towards a common goal. With the Training & Employment Network, we will connect people to employers and training based on skills,” said Steve McLellan, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, in a news release. “We are thankful for Western Economic Diversification Canada’s support in launching this important program.” “Helping employers and people underrepresented in our economy and looking for employment in their communities is the right thing to do,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, in a statement. “The Government of Canada is committed to providing businesses with the vital support they need and working with you to support good, local jobs so that Western Canada’s economy can return strong.”

BRETT PAYNE

KAYLA PETERSEN

WALLY LORENZ

HEATHER SARRAZIN

MARLENE KOTCHOREK

RANDALL COTE

SHAWNA SCHIRA-KROEKER

BRENNAN VEIKLE

ELAINE ELDER

SHANE MURDOCH

DOROTHY LEHMAN

NICOLE LOVELL

Premier’s Christmas Message Continued from Page 6 amazing people – a work family that has become closer in the last few months. All of our health care workers in Saskatchewan are amazing and we owe them so much. In Regina, Lindsay Patton, a server at Boston Pizza, decided to donate all her tips for October to Souls Harbour Rescue Mission. Lindsay is grateful her customers responded so generously. She raised $2,750 for Souls Harbour and Boston Pizza matched the donation. In Warman, fire chief Russ Austin was worried about the youngsters who couldn’t have birthday parties during the pandemic. So Russ said this: “these

poor kiddos don’t even understand why their birthday is being cancelled or why people can’t come over.” So Chief Austin decided to broaden the mandate of Warman Fire Rescue. The department made gift bags for the kids and dropped them off at their homes. The firefighters sang Happy Birthday. Chief Austin reports that the kiddos were pretty happy. And in Swift Current, Kathy Jennings wanted to ensure every senior in the area had a good Christmas. Kathy started a program called Adopt a Senior for the Christmas Holidays. 566 seniors signed up. In less than three weeks, all of them were spoken for. The seniors will get gifts, Christmas cards, and many will get photos of children

and pets from their new friends and I would imagine more than one of them will get a phone call on Christmas Day. Folks, that’s the spirit of Christmas. That’s the spirit that has come to define Saskatchewan. And it’s alive and well across our province. You know, we’ve been through a lot this year. It’s been difficult and there are some tough days ahead. But we’re going to get through this together, like we always do. So however you celebrate the holiday, I wish you the very best. From my wife Krista and our children, and on behalf of my colleagues in the Government of Saskatchewan, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

of the Battlefords MARKETING YOUR PROPERTY TO THE WORLD

1391 - 100th Street, North Battleford

(306) 446-8800

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

www.remaxbattlefords.com

Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Rosemarie Falk reflects on end of year

‘Utterly disappointed’ in carbon tax hike By John Cairns Staff Reporter

No doubt about about it, the pandemic has provided no shortage of work in Parliament this year for Battlefords-Lloydminster MP Rosemarie Falk. “It’s been an interesting year,” said Falk in her end of year interview with the News-Optimist. “I know a lot of people have been asking the highlight of the year, and we’ve had so much has gone literally since March when Canada ‘shut down.’” She notes that Parliament worked throughout the summer with their COVID-19 committee, which was followed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau proroguing Parliament for six weeks. After getting back into the house in September, Falk says the Conservative opposition has been asking questions of the government, specifically on issues of COVID-19, testing, vaccines, and different tools the premiers can have in their toolbox for their provinces. As seniors critic Falk has also sought answers on seniors issues

as well. “It’s been busy,” said Falk. “We’re trying to get the answers that we need when we look at rapid testing for example. That was something the government didn’t even jump on at all until as an opposition as a whole, not just the official opposition, started asking questions of the government on that.” Falk notes rapid testing is something available elsewhere in the world right now, and also pointed to concerns about the availability of vaccines in a timely manner. “Some of our other countries in the world, our U.S. neighbours down south for example, they’ve had rapid testing and they’ve had it for quite a few months already. So if we’ve just looked at the track record of the federal Liberals, the assumption of them not being on the ball with vaccines is fair, especially when other countries are talking about it and administering it or close to administering the vaccine. So it was important for us to make sure that we got the answers that Canadians

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Rosemary Falk, MP

are asking and Canadians needed. And not only just everyday Canadians, but also the premiers because the premiers were asking questions of the federal government, not getting answers.” She cited a desire by Canadians to return to normalcy. “... We all want to get back to normal. Our small businesses need to get back to normal, our mental health needs us to get back to more of a normalcy. Our seniors ... I mean every person in society had been touched by this in some case. A vaccine and rapid testing are the tools that we need to be able to get to that normalcy that we need and our economy needs. “Again the Liberals have a track record of say20124SW1 20124SW3

ing one thing and doing another or saying that going to do something that’s not necessarily being a priority for them. It’s just so important that Canadians have access like our other countries, our other counterparts, and we look down south again for example — they have or are getting access to.” Regarding the more transmissible strain of COVID-19 out of the United Kingdom that has made the news recently, Falk called for more communication and transparency from the government. “The Trudeau Liberals need to be completely transparent and honest with Canadians but also be proactive in their questioning. There’s questions they need to answer like, for example, has Canada ever requested more information from the UK about this new variant strain? And if they have, what information is being provided? Are the current testing procedures that they have, for example, effective at identifying a new strain? There’s some of the things that the government, the Liberals, need to be on top of, and Canadians expect them to be seeking the answers to some of these questions.” A big bombshell announcement from the prime minister this month was the news that he planned to hike the carbon tax in 2021

to $40 per tonne, up from $30, and to get it to $170 a tonne by 2030. “You know, I am utterly disappointed that Justin Trudeau would, in the middle of a pandemic — because we’re not done the pandemic yet — increase taxes on Canadians. We already know, especially out here, of the carbon tax effects, especially on anyone who needs to travel, whether it’s for work ... whether it’s medical appointments, travelling, or even our food ... “ She cited the impacts to Canadians of bills and inflation already. The carbon tax increase has been described by some as part of a “great reset” by the Trudeau government in the wake of the pandemic, but Falk figures the hike was in the works long before the pandemic. “I’ve had quite a few people bring this up to me and I would argue, this has always been the plan. He said this from day one of him taking office, just maybe in a different form. I mean, we look at the anti-energy policies that the Trudeau government has enforced and brought in. You have tanker bans, (Bill) C-48, (Bill) C-69, a carbon tax, and now the carbon tax going up again. I think it’s bad for investment, for investors to invest in our country. “We have, and I know I sound like a broken re-

May the spirit of Christmas warm your hearts this holiday season.

From all of us at

841-106th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 1W3

306-445-4344

www.rcph.ca • email: rcph@sasktel.net

cord, but we have some of the strictest environmental regulations as it is and the highest ethical standards when it comes to our energy. And not just our energy, I mean this goes to our forestry — any type of natural resource. It just seems the Trudeau Liberals just want to keep it in the ground. I mean the world is going to continue using oil. People talk about electric cars; well, there still needs to be a lubricant in the working of a car, right? There still needs to be tires they’re all byproducts of oil right? It’s unfortunate that this is the direction he wants to go, and he wants to accelerate that when we have so many people especially in our area of BattlefordsLloydminster or whether they are farmers working in the energy sector are impacted by bad policies. People just want to be able to work, get a paycheque, provide for their families and live life. During this fall sitting, Falk has been active in her role as seniors critic. It’s a role that has put her in touch with stakeholders across Canada, and she notes there are far more issues to deal with beyond COVID-19. “We need to look at where seniors were before the pandemic started and where they are coming out after this.” She points to issues such as fraud, services, and income security. “I’m absolutely honoured to be able to serve seniors in this capacity.” Now, Parliament is in recess until late January and Falk expects COVID-19 to continue to dominate discussion, even after the pandemic ends. It remains a minority government situation where the government could fall at any time. Speculation continues to swirl that Trudeau could decide to call a spring election. Regardless of what happens, Falk said her party would be ready. “Who knows?” Falk said about the election talk. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we had an election, that being said, I’m ready to go every day and in anticipation that there will be one.”

Merry Christmas! To you and your families! May hope and joy fill your homes this Christmas season!

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 9

Thank you, North Battleford 2020 has been a year unlike any other. We have all been challenged in unexpected ways to step up for our communities. But we’ve been inspired by the amazing ways you have taken care of each other. Your support for frontline workers, seniors, teachers, neighbours, families with sick children and the many people with critical needs here in the community has been above and beyond, and then beyond that even more. We want to say a BIG thank you for the unwavering kindness, generosity and togetherness you’ve shown for one another this year. Thank you to our guests for always making us part of your day, and for giving back through campaigns like Fries for Good, which raised over $2.9 million to support both the Canadian Red Cross and families who turn to Ronald McDonald House Charities® across Canada to stay close to their sick child being treated at the local hospital.

Jacques Mignault President & CEO McDonald’s Canada

Thank you to our incredible restaurant teams who have supported our neighbours on the front lines of the pandemic: providing coffee to North Battleford’s health care workers, emergency services personnel and teachers, donating meals to health care providers and donating to local community organizations including RMHC Saskatchewan, Battleford’s Beaver Blues, and the North Battlefield Professional Bull Riders with proceeds going to Battlefords Trade and Education Centre Inc. and RMHC.

Sharon Taylor Owner and Operator North Battleford

The generosity shown by everyone this year has made a difference in the lives of so many, but there are more needs to meet. The holiday season is a time of year when increasing numbers of families turn to food banks to put dinner on their tables, so McDonald’s Canada and our local restaurant owners from across the country will continue to step up by supporting with a donation that will provide 400,000 meals to Food Banks Canada’s nationwide network. Here in Saskatchewan that means almost 13,000 meals to families in need. We know there’s a difference between being in a community, and being part of one, and we are humbled and proud to be a part of yours. From our McFamily to yours, we say thank you, North Battleford.

Page 10 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Hon. Scott Moe, Premier

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas with good health, happiness and prosperity in the coming year.

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

Kiwanis Gives to the Community in Annual Presentations 20201214_News Optimist Ad_ Christmas 2020.indd 1

12/14/2020 11:49:14 AM

The Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords knows this year has been a sorry and trying time for the people of the Battlefords. With all the restrictions in effect, not much has been able to be done in the way of donating and collecting, but the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords has been able to give a few donations out again this year. Jim West, the president of the club, was able to make, on behalf of all the members, donations to the following charities: The Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation; Canadian Mental Health Association - The Battlefords; Battlefords and District Sexual Assault Centre; The Boys and Girls Club of the Battleords; Catholic Family Services; Battlefords Trade and Education Centre; The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords (due to a COVID-19 outbreak they will receive their donation at a later date; and The Empty Stocking Fund. At right, Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords, presents a donation to Cheri Murphy of Catholic Family Services. The club wishes all of the Battlefords and surrounding area a very Merry Christmas and a Happier New Year. Stay safe. Photos submitted

Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords, presents a donation to Shauna McGifford of the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation.

Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords, presents a donation to Erin Katerynych of The Empty Stocking Fund.

Canadian Mental Health Association - The Battlefords Executive Director Jane Zielke de Montbrun accepting a cheque from Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords.

Jessica Bigknife accepting a donation on behalf of the Battlefords Trade and Education Centre from Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords.

Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords, presents a donation to Zena Johnson of The Boys and Girls Club of the Battlefords.

Jim West, president of the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords, presents a donation to Amber Stewart of the Battlefords and District Sexual Assault Centre.

For more local news see www.newsoptimist.ca/news/news-local With the purchase of a hearing aid you will receive,

3 Years of Manufacturer Warranty 2 Years of Loss and Damage Warranty 3 Years of Servicing and Supplies WANT TO HEAR YOUR FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait months to get in for an appointment!

TIME TO BOOK THAT HEARING TEST!

CALL TODAY TO BOOK! (306) 445-5700

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Fewer small auctioneers; big farms now the norm By Nick Pearce

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / The StarPhoenix

Kelly Schneider has auctioned off Saskatchewan farms for almost 40 years. He’s past of the third generation of his family to take up the profession; as soon as he graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 1982, his grandma offered to pay for his training as an auctioneer so he could continue the family tradition. Ever since, he’s been involved in selling farms in the Spiritwood area. He treasures the time he spends before dozens of neighbours who crowd onto yards, sharing coffee and pie as they bid. Every year, the farms up for bid slowly become fewer and larger as farm auctioneering also grows into bigger business. Selling a farm is “always emotional,” Schneider said. That’s because there tends to be one of three reasons for a sale: a bankruptcy, a retirement without succession, or a death. Each of these sales represents a small part of the centralization of agriculture — a driving force behind urbanization in Saskatchewan. Records show that the number of Saskatchewan farms peaked in 1941 at 138,713. Within a single lifetime, by 2016, those numbers fell roughly 82 per cent, to 24,523. In 2011, the last time data was collected, the average farm size in the province was 1,668 acres, compared to 432 in 1941 — although University of Saskatchewan Professor Emeritus Rose Olfert notes the 2011 figure could skew small because it includes small hobby farms. Olfert has dedicated her life to studying agricultural economics and says centralization of agriculture is just a fact of life. Since engines replaced horses, advances in machinery have made it easier to manage large swaths of land. The bigger the farms, the more profitable they can be. Higher returns allow farmers to invest in land and equipment. The purchases make their properties more profitable, allowing for more reinvestment. When the economy booms, it can speed up the process because more accessible credit allows farmers to borrow more to buy more land. And their neighbours are more open to sell when their land fetches a higher price. Over the years, advances in equipment have meant labour requirements to maintain farms have declined. “The farmer, like any business person would, has successfully replaced

Kelly Schneider

labour with capital,” Olfert says. Michael Gertler, a professor of rural sociology at the University of Saskatchewan, adds that largescale changes in trade and government policy have tended to favour larger operations. He pointed to the dissolution of the Canadian Wheat Board — a sole purchaser and marketer of wheat until 2012 — as an example. When the board was no longer there to absorb losses or pass profits on to smaller farmers, that hurt small operations. This political side of farm centralization has raised concerns from some observers. A 2015 article published in Canadian Food Studies that looked at farm ownership in three Saskatchewan rural municipalities found that the largest four owners in each “more than doubled, or nearly tripled” their portion of land between 1994 and 2014. The study found investment funds, investors, pension plans, and farmer/ investor hybrids were the main drivers of concentration. Debt is also helping to fuel the transition from family farms to big businesses, says JoAnne Jaffe, a rural sociology professor at the University of Regina. Statistics Canada reported that total Saskatchewan farm debts were as high as about $17 billion in 2019, compared to roughly $8 billion in 2009. That outstripped total cash receipts over the same period, which rose to $14 billion from $9 billion. Jaffe said larger operators are also able to exercise more power in the marketplace, giving them competitive advantages like preferential conditions from farm-adjacent businesses like equipment suppliers. “Because you’re big, people want to keep you as a customer.” When Kristjan Hebert moved home to his family grain farm near Moosomin in 2004, it was roughly 2,000 acres. He expects Hebert Grain Ventures will grow to 28,000 acres by next year. “We’re addicted to the game of farming,” he says. At 38 years old, Herbert is a rarity among farmers.

Overall, the sector is greying; farmers older than 55 accounted for more than 55.9 per cent of operators in 2016. From 1991 to 2016, there’s been a 68 per cent decline in young Saskatchewan farmers, defined as those under the age of 35. While the centralization of farming can pose challenges for the rural businesses, schools and services that rely on a critical mass to operate, Hebert argues the growth of his operation is not contributing to the hollowing out of rural communities. He employs 10 full-time people and five permanent parttime workers. While Hebert Grain Ventures is incorporated, it has four local board members: himself, his wife, his mother and his father. He said concerns he’s heard regarding farm size tend to be about large corporations with few local ties taking over farmland. And he argues the large size of his operation helps him advocate for Saskatchewan farmers; he sits on advisory boards for government and sector heavyweights, including John Deere. When it comes to large-scale decisions, “we need to have some size to matter,” he says. Farms like Hebert’s, that are larger than 20,000 acres, account for 38 per cent of farmland in Saskatchewan. There are 2,433 operators running such large farms. For auctioneers like Kelly Schneider, the rapid expansion of farms like Hebert’s and the increased investment in equipment are just part of the job. He witnessed it for years, and intends to keep doing so for another decade or so, even if things look different. Since COVID-19, online auctioneering has taken off and Schneider says some larger operators are more inclined to shop online for their equipment rather than visit a community farm auction. He doesn’t blame his fellow auctioneers for choosing to sell to a larger company. In many ways, it’s the same as a farmer selling their land to a growing neighbour. But he has no intentions to do the same. “There’s still people who drive big, heavy horses because that’s been bred into them and that’s what they love to do,” he says. That’s how he sees himself: Continuing live auctioneering because it’s in his blood. “I still love the old way of doing things and I hope there’s still going to be a place out there somewhere,” he says. “And I think there will be.”

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 11

An escape room escapade

By Sarah Beauregard and Johannie Dufour / Translated by Katya Teague nce upon a time, in the town of Mount Christmas, a group of young students were running around the gym at their school. Since it was the last day of class before the holidays, Miss Sophie had organized an escape game to get the children moving. Using exercise mats, the teacher had divided the gym into several sections, one for each team. The first group to find all five clues would be able to break free from the evil elves’ workshop and warn Santa about the rebel reindeers’ plan to ruin Christmas. Plus, they would win a special prize. The students ran between stacked gift boxes, crawled under strands of fairy lights and jumped through giant wreaths. Emma and her teammates had already collected three clues: the first was “the reindeer rebels”; the second was “with pieces of coal”; and the third clue was “for good children.” The team only needed two more clues to complete the warning, escape the workshop and win the game. Emma and her group scanned the area. There were still three places they could look: the Christmas ornament that hung from the ceiling, the trunk of elf disguises and Santa’s list of naughty and nice children. To speed up their search, the team decided to split up. Emma and Camille would check the ornament, Liam and Zoey would scan the list, and Enzo and Hugo would search through the trunk. Emma and Camille rushed over to the ladder that led to the hanging decoration. “You climb the ladder and I’ll cheer you on,” Emma told her partner. “I hurt my wrist doing karate,” Camille replied. “I’d rather you go.” Emma didn’t want to admit she was afraid of heights — and she definitely didn’t want to lose — so she began to climb the ladder. However, before she could reach the top, Emma stopped. She was frozen with fear! Just then, the magical cardinal named Octave, who liked to help the residents of Mount Christmas, landed on the rung above her. “Don’t look down, Emma. Just stare at the Christmas ornament,” he advised. “Think about how you’re getting closer to the top rather than further from the ground.” “Don’t look down,” she repeated to herself. Emma took a deep breath, looked straight at the ornament and continued her climb as Octave and Camille encouraged her from below. Soon, she reached the top and spotted a piece of paper attached to the decoration. The clue read: “have replaced.” Emma was so proud of herself. She carefully climbed down and rejoined Camille just as Enzo and Hugo ran over holding their own clue. It read: “the gifts.”

The teammates could barely contain their excitement as they placed the five clues in a line on the floor. “The reindeer rebels with pieces of coal for good children have replaced their gifts,” Zoey read. “That doesn’t make any sense!” “I think we have to put the clues in the right order,” Liam suggested. After a moment of reflection, the kids rearranged the clues and called out to their teacher. Miss Sophie rushed over and together the six friends shouted: “The reindeer rebels have replaced the gifts for good children with pieces of coal!” “Congratulations,” Miss Sophie exclaimed. “You’re the first team to break free!” Emma was overjoyed. Once all the teams finished the game, the winners received their prize. It was tickets to the annual Mount Christmas figure skating show and coupons for free hot chocolates with marshmallows! Holding her prize close to her heart, Emma silently thanked Octave as he flew out of the gym, whistling merrily as he went.

Brought to you by Chris & the Staff

Merry Christmas

from our family to yours

192 - 24th Street | Battleford

306-937-7474

Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

‘Christmas in Meota’ video enjoyed By Lorna Pearson

and the result is good. The windy weather has been off and on and Much positive we are getting tired of it, acknowledgement has but the temperature stays come back from people tolerable, so we make the who have seen the half- best of it. The days were hour video that was made getting shorter every day. by Charles Baillargeon but starting on Monday and his son Colin, called of this week, they started “Christmas in Meota.” getting longer. We do welThere were greetings from come that. as far away as Oliver, B.C. The owner-manager from Lefa Sproxton and of the Chitek Lake golf Vern Burgardt. It took course passed away after many hours to take the only three months of canpictures and put it together cer. Jim Rings passed on Correspondent

eota News

Dec. 11, a shock to everyone. Duplicate bridge results for the afternoon of Dec.15 at the Pioneer Hall in the city saw first earned by Donna Scherman. In second was Margaret Dyck with Catriona Winterholt,

third, and Linda Ard, fourth. A Dec. 17 evening round found top score going to Margaret Dyck and Dave Creegan. In second place were Eric Callbeck and Anna Marie Waldbillig. Two tables played canasta in the Do Drop In Dec. 18 with top score by Gwen Lacerte and Dave Ottis. In second place were Arlene Walker and Cora Christiansen. There are also books and jigsaw puzzles to ex-

change, here. If the winter is seeming long, these are available here to help take up your time. I loved the column by Becky Doig in last week’s paper talking of isolation today, compared to the isolation the pioneers went through when coming to this country first. No communication like we have today, or transportation either. Today’s children can’t even believe the stories of what people went through

to survive back then. Even I, in the late 1940s, didn’t leave the farm house from Christmas to Easter one year, then just up to the neighbours’ for a visit, with a team and open sleigh. Here’s wishing everyone in the area a merry Christmas and happy New Year. May the year 2021 be more rewarding and easier for all of us to live normally. We surely do miss the social part of living and enjoying the company of others.

Saskatchewan Summer Games cancelled Staff

There will be no Saskatchewan Summer Games in 2021. The Saskatchewan Games Council, City of Lloydminster and Lloydminster 2020 Host Society announced the games’ cancellation on Monday. The reason cited was to protect the health and safety of the athletes, volunteers, spectators, event staff and residents of Lloydminster.

The games had originally been scheduled for July 26 to Aug. 1 in 2020 and was postponed to summer 2021. Now it is off altogether, but the plan is to return the event to its normal fouryear cycle in 2024. Lloydminster will have right of first refusal to host the games. “The athletes’ safety and comfort is paramount,” said Kevin Kusch, chair of the 2021 Sask. Summer Games host society, in a

statement. “Considering the guidelines in place for competitive team sports such as baseball, soccer, and rugby, to name just a few, as a Host Society, we cannot offer athletes and their supporters the experience they deserve. From the beginning, our board has maintained the games need to be a memorable event. For many athletes, this is their first experience competing at the provincial level, and as a host society, one of our duties is to pro-

vide them with a true Saskatchewan Summer Games experience. We look ahead to welcoming the athletes, coaches and families when it is safe to do so.” “The Saskatchewan Games Council sends sincere gratitude to the community leaders who have dedicated so much time and energy towards the planning of these Games to date, as well as the entire Lloydminster community who has, since 2018, rallied around bringing this event

to their city,” said Mark Bracken, Sask. Games Council executive director. “We look forward to the next opportunity where we can work together to deliver an exceptional, safe, and celebratory Saskatchewan Summer Games for young developing athletes, coaches and officials across our province.” “On behalf of the City of Lloydminster and the greater community, we thank the dedicated, community-minded vol-

unteers who provided their time promoting the 2020 Saskatchewan Summer Games while navigating COVID-19,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers in a statement. “Sports, whether team or individual, inspire and unite us. Together we’ll weather the storm as we build toward economic recovery, and the return of competitive sports and Lloydminster’s potential to host the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games.”

All SHA provincial playoffs have been cancelled By John Cairns Staff Reporter

The

Saskatchewan

Hockey Association has announced they are cancelling the 2021 SGI Canada Provincial Playoffs and

Carded Team programs. This is for the second year in a row. The SHA Board of Di-

rectors made that decision last Wednesday. Teams who entered these competitions will be refunded in a timely manner. In a statement, general manager Kelly McClintock said the following: The decision was not

an easy one however at this point the SHA’s focus is simply to get everyone back to playing games in a League environment to salvage the season. There was no way we could accommodate separate competitions within the envi-

21012uu1 20124bs0

ronment we are living in. Right now, we are simply fortunate to be able to have Minor Hockey Teams practice when you compare our situation to the two neighboring provinces who are not able to play or practice in any fashion.”

Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, My name is Amber. I have been good this year. I am 9 years old. My wishes for the world are for everyone to have a good Christmas!!!! My Christmas wishes for my family are to stay safe!!! My Christmas wishes [for myself] are PS5, Roblox gift card, iPhone, my own switch, a puppy, a new hoodie. I have a question. How are you guys doing in the North Pole, like the reindeer, Mrs. Claus and you Santa? I hope your Christmas is successful this year. My favorite reindeer is Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer. Have a jolly Christmas! Bye!!! Oh, wait. I have a question. What is your favorite drink? Milk? Eggnog? Oh, and I will leave carrots for the reindeer. Bye!!! Stay Safe! Dear Santa, I have been good. What I want for Christmas – a remote control car or truck, but a good one for outside. By Ronin

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Dear Santa, I’m nine, if you remember! This Christmas I’ve been okay (P.S. I’m working on it). I don’t mean things, sometime they blur t out! I’m sorry. Back to Christmas. This year I’d like the Best Christmas Ever! (And Covid-19 to go away.) I’d also like a mini backpack, a Fitbit, my family, masks, Na! Na! dolls / bedroom set, LOL dolls, Lego friends, grips, a Lego bracelet, and gym suits. I’ll leave you milk and cookies. Adeline Dear Santa, My name is Tommy. For Christmas I want a Lambo [Lamborghine] mug just like my Jeep mug. I am 9 years old. From Tommy T. Dear Santa, I have been good this year. How are all your elves? My wish for Christmas is for COVID-19 to END! And what I want for Christmas is: Ap ple watch , mini Macbook Air, Cheez Wiz, Procreate app, Apple pen, bread. Your friend Eva

Dear Santa Claus, I’ve been fairly good this year, maybe a couple of occasions not, but there’s only one thing I want it is that none of my family get sick. I hope you’ve been doing good up in the North Pole. I think this will be one Christmas most people will remember. I still hope you don’t have to isolate after Christmas. This year it’s probably hard for you. Oh! I just thought of something else! It is something for my new dog. Usually I get my dog a dog bone that looks like a candy cane. Since you’re always watching me I thought if my mom and I go shopping again I can buy it but if I don’t can you? I would really appreciate it and maybe on Christmas my dog might be too distracted to attack you. We got her in the summer so I don’t know if she will attack you. I think she has never seen Santa before. Anna

TheThe Battlefords, Battlefords, Thursday, Thursday, December December 24,5,2020 2019- -Page Page13 3

Dear Santa Claus, My name is Kaiden. I have not been the greatest boy but I have been good. I hope it is nice up there but you live in the Arctic so it is probably cold. I am going to list a few things that I would like: a laptop, A xe stuf f, a charger for laptop, any racing PS4 games, and For tnite please. From Kaiden Dear Santa Claus, I hope you’re doing good. This COVID stuff is not fun. I hope you can come this year I have a question can elves and reindeer get COVID. If they could that would be bad. Also how is Mrs. Claus doing? I hope she is doing well. This year for Christmas I would like the following: pet fish, Babysitter Club Lit tle Sister books, a necklace with my name on it. And one more thing that I want is that no one in my family or friends ge t CO VID. Bye an d have a good day. Merry Ch r i s t m a s . Si n c e re ly Maryska

Dear Santa, Hi again. If you forgot, I’m nine years old. I have been good I think, but you can tell me and my friends are happy. My Christmas wishes for my family and friends are I hope we can get together. Maybe not all my family, just maybe my m o m , n an a , pa pa , uncle, auntie, Easton, and Jenny, and to have a merry Christmas for my friends to have a good Christmas also. My Christmas wishes for the world are to have a very merry Christmas. All I want is to have a good CHRISTMAS and a small backpack. Your friend that loves animals (like unicorns), Kaylee F. Dear Santa, My name is Zenya. I am 9 years old (but you probably know that). I have been very good this year (which you also probably know). I hope that this Christmas everyone gets to spend time with their family and that everyone gets a nice meal. All I need for Christmas is that everyone enjoys it. (I mean Xmas.) Your friend that loves unicorns, Zenya P.

Merry Christmas 520 Heritage Way, North Battleford Saskatchewan, S9A 0P2 � Phone 306-937-6770

Dear Santa Claus, How are you doing? Are you even coming this year? How are the Elves doing? Do you have enough toilet paper? Will yo u h ave enough presents this year? This year, Mom and Dad put our house for sale. We are trying to move and I can’t wait. I learned cursive writing. I have been pretty good this year. I have been cleaning for my Mom a little. The only things I really want are a laptop or a tablet. Sophie Dear Santa Claus, H o w a re y o u d o i n g , Santa? Do you have to quarantine? Santa, what is th e weath er in th e North Pole? Santa, are the elves working harder this year? Santa, is the North Pole melting now? Santa, how does your sleigh fly? Does it have an engine or do the reindeer pull it with their magic? Santa, I know I have been bad but can you forgive me please Santa. Santa, these are the gifts I want this year: two mini sticks and two mini nets, a new tuque with a pompom, a pair of headphones for PS4, a brand new PS5. Santa, I know I have not been listening to my parents but can you still bring the presents to our house, please Santa. Santa, how do you give kids a present in one night, and eat so many cookies and milk? Santa, do you still give any presents to the kids that are bad, too? Aiden

Different hours: Dec. 23rd 8-5:30 • Dec. 24th 8-3 Dec. 25th Closed • Dec. 26th Closed Dec. 27th Closed • Dec. 28th 8-5:30 Dec 29th 8-5:30 • Dec. 30th 8-5:30 Dec. 31st 8-4

306-445-3757 10020 Thatcher Avenue, North Battleford

Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, My name is Caden. I hope I have been good. What I really want for Christmas is a YouTube camera and a nerf gun and a lot of hunting stuff. I really would like a dog. My parents won’t let me because they think I’m not responsible enough but I think I can handle. Hope you and Mrs. Claus are well. Dear Santa, I’ve been nice to Ralph and Jet. We’ve watched movies, TV shows, and all that. These are just some things I want for Christmas. LED lights, a scooter, this one thing I really, really, really want that that is a Fortnite [online video game] gift card. Oh, if you can, please make Covid-19 end. Okay, back to my Christmas list. A drone, a Fortnite mic, a tablet, a Switch controller, headphones, a new elf so I can have two. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Love Hayden S

Dear Santa Claus, I hope your family is staying safe including every elf at the North Pole. This year I was wondering if you have to wear a different mask into every home because of COVID? I hope you can still come but if you can’t it will still be the best Christmas. This year I would like a skateboard, books and for none of my family to get sick. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. I hope the elves, reindeer, you and Mrs. Clause stay safe out there. Also, another question . I kno w you are very busy but I was wondering what you do in the summer? Sincerely, Reid Dear Santa, How are you? How are the reindeer? What do they like to do? My family wants a dog. M erry Christmas from Easton.

Merry Christmas To All Our Customers, Friends And Family From the staff at Nutters Tanis

Ray

Maryann Pat

Dear Santa, As you know my name is Paige. I’m really excited for my bir th day. I’m turning 10 – almost a teen , But I have been good. Oh, by the way, can you bring Bouddy some treats? Okay, this is what I want for Christmas – a Nintendo Switch, an iPhone 11, Smart watch, shoes, makeup, LTE light, Nintedo eDs. Okay, bye. Your friend Paige Dear Santa, My name is Nicholas. I am 9 years old. With my brother and sister I want to kn o w wh at do you prefer, milk or eggnog? And do the reindeer prefer apples or carrots? Anyway, these are my Christmas wishes. I want a Lego ship and a toy Ski-doo and a Nerf gun. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Nicholas.

Debby

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 5, 2019 - Page 3 Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, I’ve been really good this year. I’m Abigail, I’m nine years old. Me and my little brother Charles have been fighting lots lately. Please forgive me. Can I have more onezies, Nintendo games, iPhone cases, Stitch stuff (no Mickey stuff), Build-a-Bear stuff, Squishy, craft kits, fake nails, Apple watch, iPad, SOSes, computer, new iPhone, decoration for my room, Moriah Elizabeth mech, and Lego. Happy Christmas from Abigail

Dear Santa Claus, How are you doing? This year I have been good. I am doing the work that I am supposed to do at home, feeding the pets, making my bed and all the other stuff. I hope this year that your good and naughty list is filled with good people. What gave you the idea of giving presents? Who is the leader of the reindeer pack? Are Comet and Dasher the leaders of the pack? For Christmas I want a Roblox gift card, a puppy or a pet parrot, a PC and some candy. From Kirsten B.

Dear Santa, My name is Isla. I am nine years old. I have been kind of good this year. My Christmas wish for my family and friends is that they have the best Christmas ever. My Christmas list is for Lego friends, a giant peach squishy, watercolour markers, three boxes of paint pens, banana marshmallows, canvasses and paper (lots), and Moriah Elizabeth merch. Love, Isla

Dear Santa, Hi! Me again. I know I’ve been a bit greedy lately, but I’m trying to work on it, so I hope I’m better this year. I’ve been a good girl this year, and I hope that you can give me more presents than my brother. (Uhoh. I’m getting greedy again.) Sorry, that’s just my brain writing this letter for you. All I want for Christmas is teenage stuff. (I know I’m just 9 but I like that stuff.) Love, Lucy xoxo

Merry Christmas

Audrey

Marla

w w w . nwe w ww s o. np et w i ms o i sptt. icm a ist.ca

Wishing you safe travels this holiday season! Best wishes from Owen, Peggy & staff

FOUR K AUTO

Dear Santa, I am Brynn K. I am 9 years old. I have been good. I hope I am on the good list. I want for Christmas: LED lights, weighted blanket, big beanbag chair, Lulu pants in black, small backpack in black, a giant teddy bear, a new elf (a girl), a bunny, and a mug that says dumb blond. Merry Christmas Santa. Dear Santa, My name is Hudson. I am nine, almost ten. Anyway, I am like every other kid, always wanting to talk in class. Other than that – for Christmas I want a PS4. I want a PS4 because I want to play with my friends ‘cause I can’t go to their houses. From Hudson Dear Santa, I have been really good and a little bad. I really want an iPhone 8. Merry Christmas, Augga M.

Merry Christmas May our friends, family and clients have a blessed and joyous Christmas Season.

1761-100th St., North Battleford

Lilly

(306) 937-2696

Christine

Cheryl

Micheal P. Hudec, LL. B. Marusia A. Kobrynsky, B.A. LL. B.

#101 1292 -100th St., North Battleford

306-446-2555

#5 11204 Railway Ave E | North Battleford, SK

306-446-3666

Merry Christmas From Our Whole Team At Bridges.

We wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season, filled with laughter, love and special moments as well as a healthy and prosperous new year.

306-445-3300 Hwy 4 North, North Battleford

Toll Free 1-877-223-SAVE (7283) www.bridgesgm.com

Regional News-Optimist

My name is Erika and I am 8 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been VERY nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I clean my Mom and Dad’s room. I do the dishes. I clean my room. This year for Christmas I would like: Orbeez and Slime. Orbeez are fun to play with. They help me sleep. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Erika Dear Santa, My name is Kingslee and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been VERY nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I clean for my granmma. I helped my Dad fix his computer. A toy building and a toy figure. This year for Christmas I would like: I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Kingslee

Battlefords, Thursday, December 2019- -Page Page15 3 TheThe Battlefords, Thursday, December 24,5,2020

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Dear Santa, My name is Dreyson and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I put the laundry in the dryer for my Grandma. I helped my Mom and my Dad pack their suitcases. This year for Christmas I would like: Monster truck and Monster Jam track, Hot Wheels cars and Hot Wheels truck, Thomas and Friends trains – especially Thomas the number 1 train! I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Dreyson

Dear Santa, Last year I didn’t get anything. I will help my mom and do the shopping and clean and do the dishes and be good. I would like Legos and an Xbox series X and also a new TV and if I get this I promise I will be a really good boy and I will clean my room. Although I didn’t listen to my mom all the time, I will try harder this year to prove that I deserve these presents. I would like as an Xbox series X because I don’t want because I don’t have to go close when I play. I was bad and not listen to my mom when she told me to clean my room. Sincerely Keeland

Merry Christmas

Dear Santa, It’s James from North Battleford, Saskatchewan. R emember I gave you cookies and milk. Sorry I was naughty this year but I did do my chores and took care of my sister and took care of my cat and I lighten up my family’s mood by being funny. I need presents like paper, clothes and PS5. Paper so I can do my homework to pass grade 4, and clothes because I’m running out of clothes, and a PS five so me and my sister don’t have to fight over my tablet so we can take turns. Even though I never clean I promise that I will clean a little every day to help at home a bit. I will be a great son if I get these presents to prove to you that I deserve presents. Sincerely, James

Dear Santa, My name is Coldy and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I help babysit my little brother and sister. I sometimes do dishes. This year for Christmas I would like: a drone because I like to fly things. I would like a bouncy ball. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Dear Santa, My name is Shaydin and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I helped my did fix the house. I play games with my brother. This year for Christmas I would like: an iPad to play games on, a GT snow sled to use in my back yard. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Shaydin

Dear Santa, My name is Kael and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I helped my Grandma take out the garbage. I take down the laundry. This year for Christmas I would like: a guitar so I could play songs for my family and a drone so I could fly it. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Kael

Merry Christmas

HDC

from

CONTRACTING

ELECTRICAL

To all our customers and friends we would like to say

THANK YOU

for your patronage in 2020 and we look forward to serving you in 2021.

Janaya Pollard Realtor® 306.441.4162

HOLIDAY HOURS

Harley Daxen Office 306-480-4330 306-441-9643 306-386-3355

Dec. 24 - 8 am - 3 pm Dec. 25 & 26 - CLOSED Dec. 28, 29 & 30 - Regular Hours Dec. 31 - 8 am - 3 pm Jan. 1 & 2 - CLOSED Jan. 4 - Regular Hours Resume

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Management and Staff

306-446-2218

9805 Thatcher Ave North Battleford

KNOW HOW

Debbie Oborowsky Associate Broker 306.441.2163

Devan Oborowsky Broker 306.441.5123

Kaley Knight Realtor® 306.386.7832

Bobbi-Lee Tarasoff Realtor® 306.514.8972

Phone 306.937.4440 Fax 306.892.2193

LTD.

Overflowing with good wishes... For all our kind friends We value your business and look forward to your continued support in the coming years.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Board of Directors Management & Staff

Turtleford & District

Regional News-Optimist Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Dear Santa, My name is Layla. This year I have been good. For Christmas I want my own computer, Moriah Elizabe thâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pi ckle th e D i n os a u r s t u f f y a n d merch, all of the squishies from Moriah Elizabeth, a bracelet maker, Stitch stuffy, a humungous Llama stuffy, Apple watch, Lego friends, GelMoment Go Glam and hair set. I also would love to have [Moriah Elizabethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s] Create This Book, One and Two. Dear Santa, I hope you can still deliver presents to all of the boys and girls, although Christmas isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t about presents, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about spending time with family an d f ri en ds. I know we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend time with people because of COVID-19, but we can still connect with family and friends with FaceTime, Snapchat, Google meets. You get my point. All I want for Christmas is for COVID to be over. Love Genevieve

Dear Santa Claus, How are you doing? On December 6th itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the feast day of Saint Nicholas. At school, we are doing lots of cursive writing. So, how is Mrs. Claus doing? Is she working hard? What I really want is the book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Izzy Newton and the Smart Squad,â&#x20AC;? a Barbie house, the new movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Croods,â&#x20AC;? and some kittens that will not die in 5 months. From Anne Dear Santa Claus, How are you? I am good. I hope that the elves and reindeer are okay. I hope that you and Mrs. Claus are okay too. There is one important thing that I want, and it is that I hope my Grandpa will get better. Here is a list of things that I also want for Christmas: a hamster, knife, Nintendo Switch, Ss4 or PS5, vr headset, pellet gun, air soft gun, another dog (big), another cat (kitten), TV, iPhone 11 pro mat. From Grayson

w swo. p n teiwms ios pt .t ci m w w w . nw ew a ist.ca

Dear Santa Claus, I hope you are safe. I know it is hard with COVID, so please sanitize our presents. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to mask and hand sanitize before eating cookies. Wash your hands before touching Mrs. Claus. For Christmas I would like a telescope, a science book, and sanitizer please. Merry Christmas. Sincerely, Sophie F. Dear Santa Claus, I have not been so good this year but I hope you will forgive me. This year was a little bit weird because of COVID but I still want you to come this year. We might try something new. Me and my brother want to do secret Santa but then there is mom and dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinion on it. Hope you do good on the presents this year. Santa, this year I would like a TV for my room and a PS4 for it and NHL 21 or 18 [video game]. I would like a massager for my body and one for my feet. From Nate

Dear Santa Claus, I hope youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing OK. During this year things are p re t t y dif fe re nt. People say youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not coming but I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe it. Do you still make toys? I really want you to be safe because youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a saint and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a joy to the world. Mrs. Claus should wake you up on December 24 . Christmas, I really want a drawing tablet. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OK if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. I mean, it is quarantine. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. Kirsten A. Dear Santa Claus, I hope you know I have been really good this year. OK fine. I have been a little naughty this year. I hope you will forgive me this year. This is stuff I would like for Christmas this year: a TV for my room, a chair for my room, a new dog, for my whole family to be safe. Sincerely, Kaite

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 5, News-Optimist 2019 - Page 3 Regional

Dear Santa Claus, I hope you have been good this year. With COVID-19 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be hard to deliver presents I am sure, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, we will do everything we can to help you. Oh, and how is Mrs. Claus doing? If she is panicking tell her there is no need to panic. Please forgive me if I have done a couple of bad stuff. You know everyone makes mistakes. For Christmas can I have a PS4 gif t card? At least can it be a $50 or $75 gift card? And a headset that can connect to a PS4 controller. Sincerely, Enzo

Dear Santa Claus, H o w a re y o u d o i n g ? I hope you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run out of toilet paper this year. I hope you come this year and not have to quarantine. By the way how is Mrs. Claus doing? How do you eat so many cookies in one night? How many else do you have? Hey Santa, do you and your elves wear masks in the north pole? Santa, am I on the nice or naughty list? This year for Christmas all I want that my family is safe. Sincerely, Zakir Dear Santa, I hope you are doing good. My name is Kaci. I live in North Battleford. I have two brothers. My favourite thing to do is swimming. I would really be happy to get an iPhone 11 Pro and a Smart watch and a rainbow unicorn bark pack and make up and a bigger house and a PS five. Love Kaci

Dear Santa Claus, Do you like the temperature? I hope you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get COVID-19. Here is the stuff I want: iPad, PS4 and I think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all. So, how are you Santa? Are you good? I hope you are good. Because I want some presents from you, so bye. From: Hayden C.

May the blessings and happiness of

Battleford Agency Tribal Chiefs

Christmas be yours.

May your home be filled with joy and love this holiday season!

Merry Christmas HOURS: Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Dr. Erin Ellis

From Management and Staff

For detail of services offered see For up to date information please visit our facebook page

www.maidstonedental.ca 119 Main Street | Maidstone

1282 101 Street, North Battleford, SK S9A OZ8 â&#x20AC;˘ (306) 446-1400

306.326.7777

Anderson Pump House Ltd.

Merry Christmas

to all of our Customers and Friends

DEC. 26 - OPEN at 6am

THE BIGGEST

BOXING DAY SALE EVER

May this Christmas

Season

fill your bellies with great food and your hearts with happiness!

2731 Hwy 4 N North Battleford 306-446-3433

B&D Meats

1181-100th Street North Battleford 306-445-3430

Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, My name is Danika S. I’m 9 years and I have been good this year and I hope I’m on the good list. I hope its not too cold this year at the North Pole but I guess you won’t get that cold ‘cause you’re Santa. Anyway, moving on. So what I want for Christmas is: L.E.D. lights, room décor, sweat shirts, computer, water bottle, stickers, cheer mats, and that’s all. What I want for Christmas, I would really, really, really want to go to the North Pole but I guess I can’t. I have an elf and his name is Rylli. You probably know him. Oh, also he’s a boy but so far he’s been hiding in really funny spaces and hard spaces to find him. Like last year he had a wine cup and chocolate chips and he sat on the rim of the wine cup and the chocolate chips were inside so it looked like he was going to the bathroom. And one time last year he was ziplining with a clothes hangar and he got stuck in the middle. Anyway, that’s all I want for Christmas. And some stories of my elf. By Danika S. Dear Santa Claus, I have been a lit tle naughty this year but please forgive me. I have been wondering if elves can get COVID-19 because it has been bothering me. I was thinking that maybe all I want for Christmas is for all this to stop (if you can). Now it’s time for me to tell you my list. P. S. It might be long. TV, my own Google home mini, my own Nintendo Switch, Slime activator, glitter glue, stuff to make Slime, arts and crafts, and five tickets to go to Texas. I hope you have a good time. Sincerely Gabrielle

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Dear Santa, I hope you a re d o i n g g o o d . M y name is Hailey. I live in North Battleford. I have a sister and brothers. My favourite thing is to do is playing with my sister. I have been good at math. I would really be happy to get a PS five for Christmas. Take care of yourself. Love, Hailey Dear Santa, I hope you’re doing good. My name is Alazne. I live in North Battleford. I have three brothers. My favourite things to do our gym and math. I’ve been good at math. I would really be happy to get a pet for Christmas. Take care of yourself. From Alazne Dear Santa, I hope you are doing good. I hope you are healthy. I live in North Battleford. And by the way my name is Cory and I am good at school and helping out with my grandma. And I have two brothers and one sister and my favourite things to do our make dance videos and listen to Christmas music and I lo ve rocking around the Christmas tree. But for Christmas I want a new phone case, new bed thing, everyone happy, new clothes, PJs, and I can’t think of anything else. Bye. Love, Cory Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well. My name is Livi. I live in North B a t t l e fo rd . I h a v e a sister and a brother. My favourite thing to do is art. I have been good at art and math. I would really be happy to get an iPhone 11 Pro, PS five, and a cat for Christmas. Take care of yourself. Love, Livi

May the spirit of Christmas be with you throughout the New Year. Merry Christmas!

Dear Santa, I am Aubrey. I know I kicked my sister and locked her in her room and broke my brothers Xbox but today I did the laundry and cleaned my room and folded my clothes and said sorry to my sister. So, can I at least have one toy? I have three requests: a book to draw in, an Anime sweater, and the Titanic book because I’ve been good, like opening the door for people, saying “thanks” and listening to my mom and dad and getting A+ in math. Even though I threw out my food and I got nothing in five years I’ll promise I’ll be good. Give me one more chance. Even though I punched my sister, I deserve those presents because I’ve been working hard like cleaning my room f ive times a day and doing laundry. Sincerely, responsible big sister Aubrey Dear Santa, I hope you are doing good. My name is Chase. I live in North Battleford. I have a dog. I have been good at soccer and running. I would really be happy to get a PS5 and PSN cards, and toys, and to be faster, and a toy robot, and a cat and a dog, and to draw pictures more better, PS5 controller, iPh on e 12, dron e , for Christmas. Take care of yourself. Love, Chase

TheThe Battlefords, Battlefords, Thursday, Thursday, December December 24,5,2020 2019- -Page Page17 3

Dear Santa, My name is Ericksin. I want toys for Christmas and take c a re o f y o u rs e l f. M y favourite thing to do is play. I have been good at school. I would really be happy to get a toy. I got a Christmas elf. Love, Ericksin Dear Santa, My name is Dreyson and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I put the laundry in the dryer for my Grandma. I helped my Mom and my Dad pack their suitcases. This ye ar fo r Christ m as I would like: Monster truck and Monster Jam track, Hot Wheels cars and Hot Wheels truck, Thomas an d Fri en ds t rains – especially Thomas the number 1 train! I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Dreyson

Merry

Christmas

Dear Santa, my name is Keagan. My favourite thin gs are animal s. I can’t wait to see your deers. And I have t wo dogs and one cat. My favourite colour is purple. One of my dogs is named Nutmeg and my other dog is named Saga. Nutmeg is tan and Saga is black. I have been good at my math at school. And what I want is a skateboard and a Godzilla toy. Merry Christmas! Love, Keagan Dear Santa, My name is Jericho and I am 7 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I help do the dishes. This year for Christmas I would like: a Nintendo Switch and a skateboard. I want to go to the skate park. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer!

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing good. My name is Lorne. I live in North Battleford. I have a little brother. My favourite things to do our art and playing games. I have been good at school. I would really be happy to get tools for Christmas. Take care of yourself. From, Lorne Dear Santa, My name is Dianah and I am 8 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been both very nice and naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I help my mom take care of my brother. I give my uncle my money. I help my mom do dishes. This year for Christmas I would like: Slime, because when I get mad I can squish it. I would also like a sled for my dog to pull me on. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Dianah

Battlefords Animal Hospital #7A 11204 Railway Ave. East North Battleford 306-446-VETS (8387) www.battlefordsanimalhospital.com

Merry Christmas

Clements Kwong

Chartered Professional Accountants North Battleford, SK • 306-445-7448 Maidstone, SK • 1-866-210-9844

May The Spirit Of The Season Fill Your Home With Sweet Memories………

Merry Christmas & Season’s Greetings

From The Team at Riverbend Dental Centre Wishing You Good Health In The New Year!

11301 - 6th Avenue | North Battleford

971 104th Street Ph: (306) 446-8230 atoskewin@batc.ca

(306) 445-3350

1531 100 St, North Battleford

306-446-0007 riverbenddental.ca

beaverhomesandcottages.ca www.northbattlefordhomehardware.com

Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, My name is Aiyanna. In this year I have been nice and yes, I get mad at my sisters and I am 9 so I know what is right and what is not right to do. So can I get a present for my family? I have been a good girl to my mom and dad. Last year I got boy toys, please get me a girl toys. For Christmas can I get a puppy, cat and an iPhone? The phone can track me down. The puppy and cat can help me keep me safe on walks and everywhere I go. Even though I’ve been mean to my sisters and I’m sorry to them. I will not do it again and I will be kind to them . Even though I have been not nice to my sisters, I should get presents because I have been nice and I will never be mean to my sister’s again. Can I please get my puppy and cat? Sincerely, Aiyanna

Merry Christmas DISCOVERY

306-445-9800 9800 Territorial Drive North Battleford Territorial Place Mall

w w w . nw eww s o. n pe t iwms iospt t. ci m a ist.ca

Dear Santa, My name is Mayson and I am 8 years old. I am so excited for Christmas this year! This year I have been naughty and nice. A few things that I did that were nice are: I helped my brother make his bed. I help my brother play games. I play toys. This year for Christmas I would like: a family dinner because I love my family. I want a sister, too. I can’t wait for you to visit me this year! I will leave out a snack for you and the reindeer! Love, Mayson

Dear Santa, Hi! It’s the nicest person on earth, Grace. I am writing this letter to you because you are the jolliest person I know and I have a few request for you! I really want an iPhone for Christmas because I can contact my mom if something bad happens. You don’t want me to get hurt do you? Also a kitten would be nice as a pet because I can sleep with it on school nights and it will help me fall asleep. You don’t want me to stay up all night with you? In my opinion, you should get me new clothes because my sister has more clothes than me. You don’t want me to have no more clothes do you? Even though I stayed up past my bedtime last night I didn’t mean to. I won’t stay up past my bedtime any more ow, I promise. I should get these things because I listen to my Mom and make my Mom coffee in the morning for her. I also care for all my family. Sincerely, the wonderful Grace

Merry Christmas! AGRO CENTRE & CARDLOCK

906 Battleford Road • North Battleford 306-446-7272

1121 102nd Street, North Battleford • 306-445-2115

Sakewew High School The Staff at Sakewew High School wish everyone a wonderful holiday season & all the best in 2021!

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 5, 2019 - Page 3 Regional News-Optimist

Dear Santa, My name is Nathan, the person who is advanced in math. I think I should get some presents because I washed the dishes, made my lunch, watched over my sister, and did many more amazing things. So in my opinion, I should at least get some presents this year. For Christmas I want to get a math book, because I want to get smarter so I can pass tests in school. Maybe one day I could be as fast as a calculator, right? I also want a hightech watch so I can do exercises and my watch will tell me how many steps I’ve had. You want me to be healthy right? And one last thing, I’m sorry if this is too long but I want Christmas songs for you. You would enjoy the songs right Santa? Even though I accidentally made Jareth cry by splashing water at him, I still said sorry and I was nice by giving a ball to him. So as you know I’ve been very good this year and I apologize to Jareth. I hope you get my request! Sincerely, the boy who is fantastic at math, Nathan

Dear Santa’ Hello Santa Claus, it’s me Kaesha! The one who always goes who always does good in school. Last year I didn’t get any presents but I did all my chores, listen to my mother, and took great care of my little brother. So I think this year I should get some presents. Santa where did I go wrong? I would like to request these three items from you. I would please want an Anime pillow and Anime socks and a new blanket. The pillow will help my mom sleep better because I will hug the pillow and not wake up in the middle of the night and scream out of fear. The Anime socks would keep my feet warm because they are filled with fluffy cotton. And a new blanket would warm me up when I am sleeping and not waking up cold and grumpy and then being late for school. Even though this year I ignored my mom when she said clean your room I still think I should get these these gifts because I promise to be good. Santa Claus, I will be really happy if I get these things requested and I will be one good child this and next year too! I will keep my promises Santa! If I get these gifts this would be the best year ever, event with the pandemic here. Sincerely, the most responsible girl in the world, Kaesha

NORSASKLAW

Richard Gibbons Law Office Serving the Legal Needs of the Battlefords and Area

Christmas and New Years Holiday Office Hours

Closed: December 25, 26 and January 1 We return: January 4 at 8:30 am

Have a Happy Holiday Season from all of us 1381A-101st Street, North Battleford, SK 306-445-7772, website: norsasklaw.com

Merry Christmas! We wish you the best this holiday season, may the magic of the season fill your heart and bring you joy!

to all our customers, friends and family

Chair Harris Sutherland and The Board of Directors wishes everyone a Very

We wish you all a safe and happy holiday season. From management and staff at

Phone: 306-845-2105 Christmas Hours Dec 24 closed at 1pm • Dec 25 Closed • Dec 28 Closed Regular Business Hours Dec 29th & 30th.

Precision Denture clinic 306-445-2322

1492 - 100th Street North Battleford HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. ~ 9 am - 5 pm • Fri. ~ 9 am - 3 pm

Merry Christmas

and a Happy and Prosperous 2021.

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 19

Merry Christmas We appreciate your support of our businesses in the

Town of Battleford â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Little Town with the Big Heartâ&#x20AC;?

Thank you for your support. We look forward to serving you with joy in 2021. Happy Holidays!

Complete Auto Body Repairs SGI Accredited â&#x20AC;˘ PPG Paints â&#x20AC;˘ Full line of vehicle repair start to finish.

5th Avenue West, Battleford

306-937-3330 or 306-937-3707 Discovery Coop Battleford Ăź Gas Bar, Convenience Store and Car Wash 81 Battleford Crossing

Merry Christmas From

Merry Christmas

May your Christmas be filled with the laughter of friends and the wonders of the season!

(2019) LTD.

306.480.8812

t GBY twinriverconcrete2019@gmail.com FNBJM devanmartel@Icloud.com Battleford, SK 1 0 #PY t 4U 8FTU #BUUMFGPSE 4, t 4 . &

VISTA TOWING Battleford, SK

Phone 306-445-2372

Merry Christmas

From Management & Staff

Underground Utility Contractors Excavation & Dirtwork

Phone 306-937-3777 Cell 306-441-7490

Battleford, SK

Wishes you a

Merry Christmas

Take Out & Delivery www.randjs.ca

331 - 22nd Street , Battleford 306-937-5555

IP Journeyman Carpenter

306-441-4173 â&#x20AC;˘ ljganzert@gmail.com Box 2268, Battleford, SK, S0M 0E0

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas!

192-24th Street West, Battleford Phone 306-937-7474 Fax 306-937-7676 www.battlefordfurniture.com mail@battlefordfurniture.com

FURNITURE

Lee Ganzert

WE WISH YOU A

Best wishes to you and your family.

BATTLEFORD

Battleford

(2019) LTD.

CLOSED DECEMBER 25, 26 & 27

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pulling for you to have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 24 Hour Emergency Service during the Holidays

MOBILE SERVICE

306-446-0039

Merry Christmas

Ăź Grocery Store and Pharmacy 906 Battleford Road ÂŽ

Happy Holidays!

306-445-3500 Box 1270, 91-23rd Street West Battleford, SK â&#x20AC;˘ S0M 0E0

218 22 Street West Battleford 306-937-2642

Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Serving the producers of the Northwest

FARMER North Battleford, Saskatchewan

RancheR

Thursday, December 24, 2020

Turning straw into gold?

Merry Christmas

Submitted

Canadian Light Source

Many have dreamed of being able to turn straw into gold like the fabled Rumpelstiltskin. While this may not be possible in the literal sense, scientists are using sunlight to turn straw into something more valuable. With the aid of technology from the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at From Our Families To Yours the University of Saskatchewan, Canadian researchers have made important advances to use the power of the sun to convert The UCalgary team is observing a photo-reactor that is being used for biomass like wheat straw photoreforming reaction with wheat straw. Left to right are Prof. Md Golam into hydrogen fuel and Kibria, Dr. Adnan Khan (research associate), Dr. Heng Zhao (post-doctoral fellow), value-added biochemicals. Prof. Jinguang Hu. Photo This method is more efcourtesy Prof. Hu and ficient, eco-friendly and As we gear up for another Kibria group. lucrative. busy HOLIDAY SEASON, Producing energy from we’d just like to take a biomass, or plant material, moment to thank all of our has been studied for more loyal customers. than four decades, said Thank you and best wishes Dr. Jinguang Hu, assistant for a prosperous NEW YEAR! professor at the University of Calgary. The two most common processes are 9901 Thatcher Ave. Parsons Industrial Park • North Battleford thermo-chemical and biological, but these are still 306-445-3445 carbon intensive and are not economically feasible. Dr. Hu and Dr. Md Going Once, Going Twice... • Commercial • Farm • Home Golam Kibria, an assisOur best wishes for a Happy Holiday! tant professor at UCalgary, • Auto • Recreational • Hail • Travel Thanks for being such great friends have been focusing their and neighbours. recent research on an alternative approach to commonly used petro-refinery. We specialize in Their novel and environFARM MACHINERY * INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT mentally friendly approach FULL & PARTIAL FARM DISPERSALS called photobiorefinery uses solar energy to break and HEAVY EQUIPMENT Fred -TRUCKS 306-883-7368* HARVEST Kelly - 306-386-7110 down biomass, in this case Continued on Page 27 CARS * TRUCKS * RV’S

CONSIGN NOW!

306-445-2377

Elliott Pre-harvest Auction Insurance Services Ltd Tuesday, TWIN CITY TRANSMISSION August 7 @ 8 AM We wish you a Merry Christmas Covering Saskatchewan & Alberta

Agro

Oilfield Coverage

CONSIGN NOW!

Hwy #3 East, Tisdale, SK

FARM MACHINERY * INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT FULL & PARTIAL FARM DISPERSALS Pre-harvest HEAVY TRUCKS * Auction HARVEST EQUIPMENT Tuesday, August 7 @ 8 *AM CARS * TRUCKS RV’S Merry Christmas

Hwy&#3 East, Tisdale, SK Happy Newto Year Call today be included in our extensive advertising program

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Toll Free 1-866-873-5488 Visit our website for upcoming auctions

Call today to be included in our extensive advertising program

www.schapansky.com Seasons Greetings from all of us at.....

Toll Free 1-866-873-5488

NOW BOOKING

Visit our website for upcoming auctions

www.schapansky.com

SPRING & SUMMER 2021 FARM AUCTIONS (Prime dates still available)

Contact one of our brokers

Call us for your Free on Farm Consultation www.schapansky.com

Kelly, Katelyn, Pauline, Cassandra or Brittany

PO Box 300, 112 Main Street Maidstone SK S0M 1M0 306-893-2461 Fax: 306-893-4222 eis@elliottinsurance.ca

“You will be glad you did!”

Family Owned & Operated

www.schapansky.com Family Owned & Operated

Toll Free: 1-866-873-5488

Ph: 306-873-5488 Box 2199, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 Ph: 306•873•5488 Ph: 306-873-5488 Toll Free: 1-866-873-5488

OTHER SERVICES

• SGI MVD Issuer • Marriage Licenses • Notory Public • Commissioner

Email: bruce@sasktel.net

Incorporated

PL #314037

Incorporated

PL #314037

2199, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 Box 2199,Box Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 Email: bruce@sasktel.net Email: bruce@sasktel.net

www.schapansky.com

www.schapansky.com www.schapansky.com

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 21

‘Twas the Night before Christmas ... in Unity Correspondent

In a year that has thrown us all off of our normal life game, Christmas has arrived and it will be experienced like no other. There has been so much to be thankful for in Unity, in spite of the hardships the pandemic has caused. Wishing everyone much health and happiness this holiday season and into the New Year. Even though Christmas has us yearning for normal and the ability to gather once again, we must all do our part in limiting our activity to ensure we can stop the progression of the virus . This may be the best Christmas gift you can give to anyone Hello to my out of town readers the Kellers, Mrs. Laycock and Keith and Clare from Maidstone, as well as the locals, who have passed on positive messages about this column. For this I say, thank you. Be well. How proud are we of our teachers? They have been thrown more curveballs in the last year than any MLB batter and they have persevered in the manner we have come to know and expect from them. If ever there was a group to perform a RAK for, this would be one of them. Unity health-care work-

nity News

ers are also deserving of RAK. They have been the frontlines in managing whatever has been thrown their way. Parkview Place and Long Term Care teams have been champs at keeping their residents active, engaged and doing the best they can amid changing circumstances. Imagine not just looking after your own family and household, but looking after these large groups in a proactive and positive manner. Protective services, town crews performing snow removal and other tasks, clergy, community business workers and so many more deserve our thanks and acknowledgements for the many changes they rolled with this year to provide service and benefit to us all.

Make sure to take in a light tour of some of the festive, fabulously decorated homes and yards around town. Thank you to those who put in these efforts for the enjoyment of others. Make sure to include the museum and some businesses on the service road along Highway14, as they have also put in efforts to light up our lives. Here is a recipe we may all need this unusual Christmas. Family Recipe Always start fresh. Combine love, caring, compassion, laughter to start off with. Add in forgiveness, friendship and a big bunch of hope. Make sure to mix in an ear to bend, a heart to lend, time to spend, communication to send and no hurt to mend. Fill your cup with fun, family times that will result in memories made by the dozen. (But this year, be sure to add generous helpings of distancing measures to keep everyone safe and well). Remember that being right sours the mix of harmonious relationships. Don’t make dough more important than people. Mix, blend and repeat. Serve everyone! Perfect results from this recipe may not always happen, however, review

Above, the Unity Kin Club initiated a “Fill the Truck” promotion to benefit the local Secret Santa campaign as well as the Unity Food Bank. Pictured here are Tomi and Terry Watt representing the food bank along with Brittany Kramer representing Secret Santa and Amanda Whyte from the Unity Kin Club. Photo submitted

Magic’s in the air Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season filled with love and plenty of Christmas spirit. I feel so blessed to be a part of this caring community. Thank you for your business and friendship. I look forward to seeing you again in the new year!

Merry Christmas

the ingredients, see what is missing and try again. And, always live your life with a little spice! Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...

Candace Mack-Horton T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

By Sherri Solomko

Sales Manager

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

20124SW0 20124SW2

LIGHT UP THE VILLAGE December 1 - January 9 6:30 - 9:30 pm Catch the spirit of the season as the WDM North Battleford Heritage Village lights up every night. $10 per vehicle / $30 season pass. All proceeds to restoration of Heritage Village buildings. Closed December 24 & 25 and January 1 306-445-8033 or smaze@wdm.ca for more information

306-445-8033 | HIGHWAYS 16 & 40

WDM.CA

Page 22 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Residents cast votes for favourite light displays

orden& Radisson

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

Borden had a Christmas light competition with 20 houses/yards entered in the competition. Winning first was Craig Larsen (crockpot and $20 gift certificate). In second place were Ian and Gerry Wainwright (crockpot and Avon kitchen trio). Placing third were the Luke and Kandice Walker family( Big Boss grill) and in fourth were Jack and Kendra Comeau (Borden mugs and hot chocolate). Borden Co-op, Canada Post , Roadside Inn and Hair Salon and the village donated prizes. Thanks to everyone who put up extra lights and decorations for 2020. A total of 183 people voted for the displays. The Borden Community Centre Preservation Committee is holding a raffle for a four-cubic-foot freezer filled with food and the draw is March 19. Winner of the Borden Lakeland Library dessert of the month for December was James Usselman of Radisson. Borden Firefighters held a draw for a quarter of beef and the winner was Tamara Tkaczyk of Saskatoon. Merry Christmas to everyone and all the best for 2021. May it better than 2020.

Twenty houses and yards in Borden were voted on by 183 residents to determine winners of a Christmas lighting competition. Earning first prize was Craig Larsen, who also had the back of his house decorated.

A Disney character display by the Wainwrights earned second place.

The Luke Walker family, who also had their back yard decorated, were awarded third prize.

A display by Jack and Kendra Comeau earned fourth place. Photos by Lorraine Olinyk

Mayfair area rural displays are worth the drive By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

The rush is on for most moms and grandmothers in busy households, but maybe less so for Christmas 2020. With new, strict COVID-19 rules in place, it may be a lonely Christmas Day for all of us. We will just have to make the best of it. An opportunity to gather up last-minute stocking stuffers is offered by the Rabbit Lake Rose Gill Lodge Auxiliary. Toques, mitts and other items the senior residents knit are available. There are also crocheted items including potholders and dish

clothes. Other small trinkets are also on sale. Call ahead at 306-824-2020 to check out what is offered. All Saint’s Catholic Church in Mayfair is having Christmas Eve mass at 5 p.m. All COVID-19 restrictions will be in place. Those who want to attend this service are asked to call Keith Liebaert at 306-246-4386 to register, as there is a limit to how many can be inside the

church. Congratulations to Scott Lange and Breanne as they welcomed baby Rylynn Dawn born Nov. 17. Proud grandparents are Danny and Sandra Lange and great-grandpa Ralph Lange, all of the Mayfair area. There are some spectacular yard Christmas light displays in rural areas near Whitkow, Mayfair, Rabbit Lake and Meeting Lake. On a nice winter evening, spending a couple of hours touring them makes for a fun time. People go to extensive work, or as they call it, “a labour of love” creating out-of-this-world displays. They do it for the

enjoyment of others. With the pandemic and more people working at home, a sale clerk at a local business said the sale of lights has been phenomenal this year. Probably not too may will be left for reduced prices for Boxing Day sales. With cloudy skies predicted Dec. 21, one probably will not get a good view of a “Christmas star.” This is created by the solar system’s two largest planets, Saturn and Jupiter, coming together for a planetary conjunction. They will pass each other in our solar system and this is the closest they have been in nearly 400 years. Although

appearing close together from our view, these plants remain several hundred thousand kilometres apart in outer space. A merry Christmas to everyone and let’s be thankful, even if 2020 waw most events cancelled. We are in unpredictable times in which the whole world is experiencing hardships. Stay safe and healthy and use good commons sense when making decisions.

The History of ‘Jingle Bells’ The popular Christmas carol “Jingle Bells” has an interesting history that remains a topic of debate even now. Written by New England native James Lord Pierpont, “Jingle Bells” was never intended to be a Christmas song, and in fact does not even mention Christmas or any other holiday. In addition, the song’s birthplace is disputed, so much so that there are two commemorative plaques in two different cities, each of which claims to be the place where Pierpont purportedly wrote the song in the 1850s.

One plaque is in Medford, Massachusetts, where Pierpont is said to have written the song from a tavern while watching sleigh races taking place outside. The other plaque is in Savannah, Georgia, where locals believe Pierpont wrote the lyrics prior to leading a sing-along of the song at a local church in 1857.

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 23

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

Second Front

Company absorbs carbon tax worth a year’s university tuition; customers won’t pay By Brian Zinchuk

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Estevan Mercury

Anne Phair was having some coffee with some friends one day, back when you could still do that. They were talking about the federal carbon tax. Anne said, “I was talking to some friends, most of which don’t actually own their own businesses, and one was talking about how her grandma got some money back and she doesn’t ever get money back. And she was so surprised and I’m like, ‘Yeah, that was my money.’” The money that grandma got back was for the federal carbon tax. Anne and her husband Kevin own and operate Phair Oilfield Tank Truck Service Ltd., with operations based in Carnduff, while they live in Weyburn. The company hauls crude oil and salt water in the Carnduff area of Saskatchewan as well as southwest Manitoba. “I could have walked around Weyburn and handed out hundred-dollar bills,” she said on Dec. 17 by phone. Indeed, she could have handed out precisely 172 of those crisp brown hundred-dollar bills in the first year, alone. Anne could say this because she has kept meticulous records of every cent she can track that her company has paid in carbon tax, since day one. The first year alone – April 2019 to April 2020, they paid $17,200.71, and that was when the carbon tax was set at just $20 per tonne of CO2. From April until November, 2020, they had already paid over $10,000, with a carbon tax rate of $30 per tonne. The reason the number is tracking lower is due to the substantial drop in business this year, as the oilpatch has been hit hard as a result of the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. And on Dec. 11, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the carbon tax would be raised every year until 2030, when it would reach $170 per tonne. To put that first year’s carbon tax in perspective,

Anne said, “We have a daughter who just started university. Seventeen thousand dollars would have paid for her year, or close.” Explaining how she came to that $17,200.71, Anne said, “I took the numbers off of the fuel bills and then I also took the numbers off of our natural gas bills for our shop and our house. We have the house in Carnduff that’s owned by the business. And the office is in the Weyburn house, so I use the power bills and the heat bills off of the houses and the shop. And even our garbage disposal is charging a carbon charge on their bills. “Anybody that wrote anything about carbon tax on a bill went on my spreadsheet. “I kept it all.” December of 2019 was a $2,000 month just for carbon tax, almost all of that on the fuel their trucks use. Customers refuse to cover the carbon tax Phair Oilfield Tank Truck Service runs a fleet of four of their own trucks, plus a number of trailers pulled by leased operators. They used to have 14 people working, in total, including the owners, but more recently that’s down to Kevin, Anne, two company drivers and three leased operators. Like nearly all the oilpatch, their business had been dramatically diminished since the crash in oil prices in late 2014 led to a brutal oil downturn that has now lasted six years. They have seen several rounds of cuts in the rates their customers will allow them to charge. When that downturn hit, they took 10 per cent off their rates off the top, and have yet to get any of that back. And it’s not like they can just tack on the carbon tax on their invoices. Most oil companies refuse to pay for additional carbon tax on their invoices, according to Kevin, although one company does specify a fuel surcharge they are willing to pay. “We were told, ‘Do not charge it,’” Anne said. The result is the Phairs, like most other company

Phair Oilfield Tank Truck Service Ltd. paid $1,450.23 in carbon tax on its fuel bill in just one month, in one of the first months the carbon tax was implemented. Back in July, 2019, the carbon tax was $20 per tonne of CO2. By 2025, that number will rise to $95 per tonne, and $170 per tonne by 2030. Photo courtesy Anne Phair

“It comes out of our retirement ... out of paying for anything new. It comes from updating your equipment ... it also comes out of what we can give back to the community.” owners in the oilpatch, have absorb the additional cost. Every time the carbon tax ratchets up, they are absorbing it. “We are eating every dime. It comes out of my pocket,” Anne said. “I can’t even picture $170. I don’t even think we’re in business anymore, unless something changes,” she said of the progressively higher carbon tax in the coming years. When the carbon tax hits $95 per tonne in 2025, based on their 2019 numbers, the Phairs would be paying $81,700 in that year alone, enough to employ one more driver. Asked where that $81,700 comes from, they both laughed. “If you know, please tell us,” Anne said. Getting more serious, Kevin said, “It comes out of our retirement, that’s where it comes; out of paying for anything new. It comes from updating your equipment.”

Can they get more GHG efficient? One of the stated reasons behind the carbon tax is to encourage a reduction in the consumption of greenhouse gas generating fuels. Asked if there’s anything they could do to reduce their consumption, Kevin said they could remove the emissions controls off their truck engines, something the government clearly does not want. Their predicament is compounded by the fact that progressive tiers of emissions controls on diesel engines, now at Tier IV for new engines, have proven to be increasingly problematic, maintenance-wise, and less fuel efficient. While they dramatically reduce pollutants like NOx and particulates, they also actually increase fuel consumption. As for the possibility of getting an electric semi, Kevin scoffed, referring to an oilfield lease in the middle of the prairie and

noting, “You won’t find a charge station anywhere near 1-25-2-1-W2, that’s for sure.” Anne added, “And how do you find the money to go and replace your entire fleet? Especially when the equipment you already have is now basically unmarketable? You can’t even turn around and sell what you got.” “We won’t be buying any new equipment from here on out, and that’ll be where we have to save some money, I guess.” “It comes out of your ability to help your kids get started, maybe start a business of their own, or with a down payment on a house,” Kevin said. “It also comes out of what we can give back to the community,” Anne said, citing examples of donations to the local rink or sports teams that won’t be happening. While the general public may see a carbon tax

rebate on their taxes, that’s not the case for businesses like Phair Oilfield Tank Truck Service. Every quarter, Anne fills out a form called “Fuel Charge Return – Registrant.” The form says, “Use this form to calculate your total net charge in accordance with section 71 of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act.” She forwarded a copy of their second quarter 2019 form. They claimed $27.19 from Manitoba, and got a rebate of $27.19 from Saskatchewan, for a net zero. One time, they got all of three dollars back, for a trip to Alberta, because Alberta has its own carbon pricing scheme. Anne has spoken with her Member of Parliament, Souris-Moose Mountain Conservative MP Robert Kitchen about it. She’s written letters to the prime minister. A response she got from the federal government told her to apply on her income tax rebate for a few hundred dollars. For 2019, they would get $305 for the first adult, $152 for the second, $76 for each child, and a 10 per cent boost for living in a rural area of Saskatchewan, according to the Government of Canada website. “Thanks, paid $17,000, and I get back, what? That’s helpful,” Anne concluded.

Page 24 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

All the right choices for you to reach More People...

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

Deadline Monday: 2:00 p.m.

Prepayment required

Full Color NOW AVAILABLE for your CLASSIFIED AD! • No Refunds •

Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223 In person/mail: 892 - 104th Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1M9

Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 8am - 4:30pm

OBITUARIES MURPHY ( L'HEUREUX): It is with great sadness the family of Antoinette Murphy resident of Saskatoon, Sk announce her passing October 8th, 2020 at Royal University Hospital Saskatoon,Sk. The family will have a private internment in the spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of the donors choice.

Dustin Kent Delainey November 7, 1981December 12, 2020 With great sadness, the family of Dustin Kent Delainey, announce his sudden passing on December 12, 2020 in North Battleford, Sask. at the age of 39 years. Dustin is survived by: his loving wife, Lori Pateman; children, Chloe, Philip and Aubrey; his mother, Esther (Edward); brothers, Spud (Christel) and Clayton (Leanne); sister, Beverly (Chris); sister in law, Melissa; father in law, John; mother in law, Agatha; nieces, Keisha, Brooklynn, Callie, and Makayla; nephews, Logan, Aspen, Daygen and Blake; and numerous other relatives. Dustin is predeceased by: his father, Joseph Forest; infant sister, Kimberly Delainey; grandfather, Albert Friebel; and grandmother, Phyllis Friebel. Dustin was born in Lloydminster, Sask. During childhood he lived with his family in Paradise Valley, AB. and Lloydminster, Sk., eventually moving to North Battleford in 1989 and remaining there until his passing. He attended Connaught Elementary School, Alexander Jr. High school and John Paul II highschool in North Battleford. Dustin could always be seen with a smile on his face; he had an infectious laugh and family was his priority. He took every opportunity to show his children he loved them and tried to spend as much time as possible with them. His daughter, Chloe Mae Brown-Delainey was born in July 2002. Dustin was able to raise Chloe until she moved away with her mother at age 3. In 2008, Dustin met Lori Pateman and shared a wonderful life together for 12 years. Together they had 2 children: Philip John Delainey in December 2011, and Aubrey Allison Delainey in September 2016. Other than his children, Dustin’s favourite people were always his brothers Spud and Boy, nieces Keisha and Brooklynn. Dustin enjoyed the outdoors and being active. As a child, his favourite place to be was on his grandparents’ farm, spending time with siblings and cousins, getting into trouble and learning from his grandparents. He was a member of the air and army cadets, he enjoyed playing soccer, cross country running, snowboarding and biking during his school years. Summers were spent at the lake, enjoying his parent’s cabin. He began a love for fishing going out with his grandfather and he continued to fish until present. Dustin enjoyed camping with family and friends, especially tenting, and took any opportunity to do so. He enjoyed travelling throughout Sask, Alberta and BC. Dustin is well remembered for joking around and choosing fun over anything else; often taking practical jokes too far. He also loved to cook and do jigsaw puzzles, playing games with friends, reading and being in nature. He spent time doing woodworking and building furniture including bed frames for both Philip and Aubrey and working on a treehouse for them in the backyard. He was fortunate to be able to create items from a vision without any formal direction. Dustin was a hard worker and held many jobs over the years. He was able to adapt to any environment; he loved to learn and to pass his knowledge on to others. His first and most beloved job was working alongside his dad, Joe, working on cars and in Joe’s trade, as a Refrigeration Technician. After highschool, he began working for Rapid Refrigeration and did this with Joe for nearly 10 years. After Joe’s passing he worked various places before settling with the City of North Battleford in 2011. Working for the City was a perfect fit for Dustin as he could be outdoors and he happily worked there for 8 years. In 2019, Dustin embarked on a new journey working for the health region in maintenance. Dustin was also most fortunate to work side by side with his brother, Clayton, installing and repairing overhead doors in their spare time for nearly 15 years. In lieu of flowers, gifts and donations, please take a moment to check in on your loved ones, and give a virtual hug or kiss to the people that mean the most to you. Time waits for no one. However, donations can be made to the Mental Health Association. The family of Dustin would like to thank everyone who has given food, gifts and flowers already; they mean so much during this difficult time. Condolences may be left at www.saskatoonfuneralhome.com . Arrangements entrusted to SASKATOON FUNERAL HOME (306-244-5577) __________________________________________________

BUCHANAN: Ross Roderick Buchanan, 67, passed away peacefully at home on December 13, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. Ross was born on December 11, 1953 and spent his early years in Limerick before moving to Rockglen in 1961. Ross graduated high school in Rockglen in 1970 and began a successful career with the Credit Union. He married his high school sweetheart, Maureen, in 1975, and they went on to have 4 children, living in Bulyea, Gainsborough, and Regina. In 1989, Ross and Maureen moved to Swift Current, where Ross worked for Agricultural Credit Corporation, and then finished his working days with the Chinook School Division. Family meant the world to Ross and was always his greatest priority. His dedication to his family was unbreakable. Ross was always present to support, love, and spend time with his parents and siblings. As Ross and Maureen’s family grew, he demonstrated time and time again his family first mentality. This was most apparent in the unique bonds he built with each of his 8 grandchildren, who loved Grandpa Ross very much. Ross is predeceased by his parents Elmer and Elizabeth Buchanan, Maureen’s father Pook Henrikson, his brother Don, sisters Heather (Dale) and Joan, and brother-in-law Don. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Maureen, and their children Paula (Chad, Sara, Tyler), Jan (Ken, Sydney, Carson), Jaklyn (Johnny, Taylor, Ben), and Clayton (Lindsay, Emma, Olive), brother Norm (Pat), mother-in-law Emma, brother-in-law Leroy, sisters-in-law Wanda (Fred) and Karen, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A private family celebration of life will take place at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. Warren’s Funeral Home were entrusted with the arrangements. For further information call 306-773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606 or visit our website at www.warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy on the family tribute wall. __________________________________________________ Glorianne Mary Schulkowsky November 30, 1948 – December 5, 2020 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Glorianne Mary Schulkowsky, our loving and devoted wife, mother and friend to all whose lives she touched, on December 5, 2020. She left us while sleeping peacefully surrounded by loved ones in Battleford’s Union Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. Born November 30, 1948 in Humboldt, Saskatchewan at the St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Glorianne was baptized and confirmed at Marysburg Assumption Church. She was the beloved mother of Corinne (Chad), Gerard (Marla), Shelley (Peter), Michael (Shelan), Lori (Rodney) and Kelly (Kristin). Grandmother of Brandon, Jaylyn, Kayla, Hugo, Elizabeth, Jase, Blake and Madison. Devoted wife of 52 years, John, and lived in the homestead in Medstead, SK. Loving sister to Jerome (Vivian), Michael, MaryLou, Matthew and a kind soul to many cousins, nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends. She was predeceased by her parents John and Bertha Weiland, parentsin-law John and Elizabeth Schulkowsky. Glorianne lived a full life as a wonderful mother, wife and devoted Catholic. She enjoyed church, cooking and gardening. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Due to the current Covid-19 Restrictions a Private Family Funeral Mass with Fr. Ramel Macapala as Celebrant, was held Friday December 11, 2020 with interment following in the Medstead Municipal RM Cemetery. Special thanks to Fr. Ramel Macapala, Fr. Peter Nnanga MSP, Phil and Aline Marion, Dr. Prystupa and his team, and COPP’S at BUH, Palliative Care Unit also all of Glorianne’s friends and neighbors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to BUH Foundation. Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Mark Muir, Funeral Director, Spiritwood, SK (306-883-3500).

RENTZ: It is with great sorrow the family of Mrs. Sharon Rentz (nee Salisbury) announce her passing Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at the age of 60 years. Sharon is lovingly remembered by her husband of over 25 years, Walter Rentz; children: Adam Kozlowski, Mike (Jessica) Kozlowski Cadence and Ryder; Jade (Mary) Kozlowski - Alaina; Jerry (Heather) Rentz – Skylor (great-granddaughter, Kalli), Bryanna, Ashlyn, Ryley; Jim Rentz; mother, Margaret Salisbury and numerous relatives. Sharon was predeceased by her father, Ralph Salisbury and her brother, Daniel Salisbury. Sharon loved to spend summers at Meota, where Walter and her have a seasonal campsite. She always referred to the lake as “her happy place”. Sharon was loving, kind and generous. Sharon’s true loves in life were her grandchildren and most of all her beloved dog Zoe. She will be missed and forever loved. As per Sharon’s wishes there will be no formal Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to Battlefords Mental Health 1092 – 107th Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1Z1 or Prairie Pooches Animal Rescue Po Box 159, Cando SK S0K0V0. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium. Card of Thanks The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has sent flowers, messages, phone calls and food during this difficult time; your thoughts and prayers are appreciated beyond measure.

S T U D N E Y- L A F R E N I E R E Lillian Studney-Lafreniere of Clio, MI age 92, passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at McLaren Flint hospital. Lil was born on the family farm in Bluebird District, Saskatchewan on March 17, 1928. She was the youngest and last survivor of 11 children. Lil (or Lily to her siblings) married her first husband Ted in 1946, had three children and spent most of their married life in the North Battleford area of Saskatchewan,. Ted who was a veteran of the Second World War passed away in 1971. In 1988 she married Rene Lafreniere and moved to Mount Morris, Michigan. She later moved to Clio where she lived on her own until going into hospital in November 2020. Lil always loved to dance and was even known to dance on a table from time to time. Even as a grandma she danced on tables with her granddaughters although much more carefully. Lil was a regular line dancer at the Clio Senior’s Centre, dancing with all of her friends. Even though her mobility became more limited as she got older Lil was still out there line dancing using a cane. Lil was very fond of gardening and was always surrounded by flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees. Lily always took great pride in her yard and home. Lil is survived by her children Richmond (Rita), Gail (Bill), Shannon (Evangeline); her six grandchilldren Jennifer, Amber, Darren, Clint, Nicolette and Christopher. Also mourning her loss are her five great grandchildren; Lucas, Olivia, Ethan, Alyson and Kaitlyn. There will be a service held for Lil in North Battleford, Saskatchewan at a later date. Lillian’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all of their mother’s friends and neighbours who helped and watched over our mother with such love and kindness. We would also like to express our appreciation for the care and attention our mother received at Mclaren Flint during her final days especially to the nurses and doctors on the eighth floor. Your kindness and understanding were so comforting to us.

newsoptimist.ca

your news all the time and online

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

OBITUARIES

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MACDONALD: Leola Margaret Macdonald (nee Minette). It is with great sadness that the family of Leola Macdonald announce her passing on December 16, 2020 at the age of 92 years. Leola leaves to cherish her memory; her daughters: Diane (Wayne) Allen, Joanne (Elroy) Yakemchuk; her sons: Jim (Chere), Hugh (Brenda), Doug; as well as 16 grandchildren and 31 greatgrandchildren. Leola was predeceased by her husband, Douglas, her brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Evelyn Minette; her parents: Edward and Betty Minette and grandson, Jamie Macdonald. A family graveside service will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Leola may be made to the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation, Box 1358, North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8; River Heights Lodge Auxiliary, 2001 - 99th St. North Battleford, SK S9A 1W3; or to the Shrine Hospital for Children, 1003 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Que. H4A 0A9. Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements are entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS!

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

Harvey Corpe

Calgary, AB Aug 3, 1963-Dec 30, 2019

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.

SUITES FOR RENT We think of you in silence We often speak your name What would we give to hear your voice And see your face again.

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

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

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

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.

1332 - 100th St., North Battleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours

Trevor Watts - Owner/Director Robert Mackay - Director Vanessa Macnab - Apprentice Funeral Director Funerals | Burials | Cremation | Preplannig WE ARE LOCALLY AND FAMILY OWNED

Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More

Please visit: www.moderncanada.ca or call

1-866-266-6441 today for more

information on how to become a

modern

business Partner.

LAND FOR SALE SE 10-44-15 West Third. Jean at 306-446-1668.

Call

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT

sales@ Integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com

Cederville Apartments, quite adult complex, spacious 1 bedroom suite, lower level. Available Dec 1. Security doors, no children, no pets. Rent $750, security $750. call to view 306-481-2836

FEED & SEED

FARM SERVICES

1-844-453-5372 HOUSES FOR RENT

House For Rent in North Battleford 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished up and down. Close to Schools. Detached garage.

306-446-0441

would like to announce the WINNERS of their MONTHLY CALENDAR DRAWS to date:

Bob Kryzanowsky Daryl Light Donna Oborowsky Alma Redding Cam Johnson

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2691 - 98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours

SINCE 2008

Expert Help:

CALL BATTLEFORD BOUTIQUE 306-937-3446 OR THE TOWN OF BATTLEFORD 306-937-6200 FOR CALENDAR PURCHASES.

Funeral Service and Crematorium

area!

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

Bernadette and the board members of the Fred Light Museum would like to extend a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Eternal Memories

now available in your

HIP/KNEE Replacement?

The Fred Light Museum

• • • • •

FARM SERVICES

Integrity Post Frame Buildings

CommerCial

Cleaning opportunity

CONGRATULATIONS

Love forever from: Mom Nettie, brother Jerel and sisters, Val (Paul) Klaassen, Linda (John) McCurcher and family

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

INTERESTED IN STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS?

WANTED

Robert "The Bob" George Miller

In Memory Of

Blackfoot, AB Dec 14, 1961-Dec 30, 2019

Learn the four simple steps that will help you SPOT fake news online.

In Loving Memory of

Now at rest

Alan Corpe

Don’t fall victim to sharing fake news about COVID-19 online.

Protect yourself with media literacy in 4 simple steps.

July 30, 1954 September 17, 2020

FOR SALE - MISC

BELIEVE IT?

The global COVID-19 pandemic means learning how to SPOT fake news has never been more important.

IN MEMORIAM

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 25

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 NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 invites expressions of interest for the supplying of approximately 20,000 cubic yards of 7/8 inch road gravel to be delivered to the municipal shop yard or to a location to be determined by council along Highway 378 located within the R.M. of North Battleford No. 437. Interested parties shall submit the expressions of interest including the following: • Unit prices per cubic yard for the gravel • Confirmation that the gravel will be made available as soon as possible in May, 2020 The expressions of interest must be received at the office of the undersigned (in a sealed envelope) no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 9th day of February 2021. The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 reserves the right to refuse any and/or all of the expressions of interest. Dated this 17th day of December 2020 in North Battleford, Sask. Debbie Arsenault, Administrator R.M. of North Battleford No.437 Box 187, North Battleford, Sask. S9A 2Y1 rm437@sasktel.net Phone: 306-445-3604 Fax: 306-445-3694

Page 26 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

FEED & SEED

Round Bales: 250 gfd. Oats, 300 Wheat straw, 200 Oat straw. All net wrapped. Phone/Text 306291-9395 Langham, SK.

Wheat

Barley

aMisk, busby, CErvEza, CDC austEnson, CDC MavEriCk, sunDrE. Peas aaC PEaCE rivEr, vEry Early yEllow, CDC Horizon, ForaGE PolisH Canola, sPrinG tritiCalE mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Heavy Duty Mechanics required:

Labourers Wanted:

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.

CERTIFIED SEED Go Early, Pintail. Oats aC JuniPEr, aC MorGan, aC MustanG, DErby, so1 suPEr oat.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Seeking professional drivers with Class 1 – 5 license to transport RV’s throughout North America. We have company driver spots available in Double Haul, Triple Haul and Semi fleets and O/O spots available in Single (1 ton) and Double Haul fleets. For more information on each fleet, please visit roadexservices.com. Subsidized health and dental insurance, monthly bonus available for company drivers. Must have valid passport and be able to cross the border. To apply please email resume and a current driver’s abstract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.

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

THURSDAY’S BEST

ONLINE

www.newsoptimist.ca

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

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

FEED & SEED

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

www.newsoptimist.ca 892-104th Street | North Battleford | 306-445-7261 NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 invites expressions of interest for the crushing of approximately 20,000 yards of 7/8 inch road gravel for the year 2021.

City of North Battleford 1291 - 101st Street P.O. Box 460

North Battleford PH: (306) 445-1700 Saskatchewan FAX: (306) 445-0411 Canada S9A 2Y6 PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD

Public notice is hereby given, Pursuant to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007 that the City of North Battleford intends to pass a bylaw to amend the Zoning Bylaw No. 1971 as hereinafter provided. It is proposed to amend the Zoning District Map, which forms part of Bylaw Number 1971, as follows: Intent Rezone from FUD – Future Urban Development District to M2 – Heavy Industrial District, 9700 Thatcher Avenue (Parcel C Plan 86B15558 Extension 1, Parcel C Plan 86B15558 Extension 2), as shown within the bold dashed line on Sketch “A” below. Sketch “A”

Interested parties shall submit the expressions of interest including the following: • Unit prices per cubic yard for the crushing • A list of equipment and machinery (with proper pricing) guaranteed to be made available and used for the purpose of completing the work in a timely and workmanship manner. • Agrees that an R.M. representative must confirm and record the hours on any equipment that may be used in the crushing process before commencing work and will be verified again upon completion • Proof of insurance and workers compensation coverage • Confirmation that the crushing of gravel will commence as soon as possible 2021 with crushing to be continuous until completed Please note: • Contractor must be prepared to move locations within the pit as determined by the R.M., cost will be the contractors responsibility • Cat work and stripping will be completed by the R.M. • Gravel samples will be randomly checked to determine quality and consistency to ensure they meet R.M. specifications • A Memo of Understanding is to be signed by all parties before any work commences • Payment will be made after gravel piles have been measured and confirmed by an outside source. The expressions of interest must be received (in a sealed envelope) at the office of the undersigned no later than 4:00 p.m. on the 9th day of February 2021. The R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 reserves the right to refuse any and/or all of the expressions of interest. Dated this 17th day of December 2020 in North Battleford, Sask. Debbie Arsenault, Administrator R.M. of North Battleford No.437 Box 187, North Battleford, Sask. S9A 2Y1 Phone: 306-445-3604 Fax:306-445-3694 rm437@sasktel.net

Reason This area has been requested to be rezoned by an applicant looking to establish an industrial use at the location. Bylaw Inspection Any interested person may inspect the bylaw at City Hall, 1291-101st Street, North Battleford, SK Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Copies are available to persons through the Office of the City Clerk. Public Hearing Representations respecting the Bylaw will be considered by the Council on the 11th day of January, at 6:30 p.m. Council shall hear any person or group of persons or person acting on their behalf, who wish to make a representation. Due to COVID-19, Council will be held electronically over Zoom. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to City Hall before the hearing. Issued at North Battleford this 24th Day of December 2020. Debbie Wohlberg, City Clerk

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

North West College

North West College is Currently Accepting Applications for the Following Position: Little Pine First Nation: Instructor, ABE Level 2

Posting #55-LPFN-2021 This in-scope position is responsible for organizing and delivery of education curriculum and content of the ABE program. This full-time, term position is 85 days, running from January 14 – May 28, 2021. Salary Range: $295.38 – $467.86/day based on level of education and years of relevant experience. For a complete position profile, and application visit www.northwestcollege.ca. Applications will be received until noon, Thursday, January 7, 2021.

www.northwestcollege.ca

Regional News-Optimist CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Job Title:

Truck Driver

Job Description: Parkland farm equipment (2004) Ltd. is looking for an experienced Class 1A Truck Driver. Duties include short and long haul transportation of agriculture equipment, lawn and garden equipment and various other items as required. Must be willing to work some overtime. Wage: Negotiable based on level of experience. Access to additional benefits including RRSPs and health benefits. Employment Type: Full Time

Please submit resume to pfecorey@sasktel.net

DO MEANINGFUL WORK

WE’RE HIRING SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS At First Student, our School Bus Drivers are an integral part of the communities they serve. We are your friends, family, and neighbours!

We are proud to offer: • Competitive Wages • Flexible Hours • Free Training

Apply: ca.firstgroupcareers.com Call: 306.445.6660 We are an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce.

CONGRATULATIONS

Liquor Permit Advertising Form Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997, Notice is hereby given that 102111626 Saskatchewan Ltd has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) for a Retail Store Integrated permit to sell alcohol in the premises known as Meota General Store at 290 Main St W Meota SK, S0M 1X0. Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with SLGA not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this notice. Every person filing a written objection with SLGA shall state their name, address, and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objection(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds, and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number. Frivolous, vexatious or competitionbased objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing. Write to: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Box 5054 REGINA SK S4P 3M3

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 27

Turning straw into gold? Researchers study more profitable and eco-friendly method for turning biomass into biochemicals, green hydrogen Continued from Page 20 wheat straw, to make green hydrogen and a high value biochemical. Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) has been supporting this research and their recent findings were published by the American Chemical Society. One of the key aspects of an effective biomass photorefinery approach is pre-treatment of the wheat straw. Hu explained plant cell walls are made of complex and highly organized cellulose structures, a major building block of biomass. Pre-treatment of the biomass destroys those structures and exposes more of the material to the sun-driven process.

Kibria added the goal was to identify a pre-treatment that does not require nonrenewable resources, thereby “saving a lot of carbon and cost.” Using the CLS’s Hard X-ray Micro-analysis beamline, the researchers compared how raw wheat straw and straw pre-treated in a number of ways reacted in the photorefinery. Their findings showed a phosphoric acid pre-treatment resulted in the highest production of green hydrogen and lactic acid, which is typically used for bioplastics and in food, chemical, and medical industries. “The CLS facility allowed us to see how stable

the material was at the start, during and after photorefining of wheat straw. And, we could see that in real time, which is a big advantage,” said Kibria. Another critical factor was to find an inexpensive, readily available catalyst to drive the photorefinery. The study found the best results using a low-cost photocatalyst, made from carbon and nitrogen, that is designed for visible light driven cellulose photoreforming. “Because all biomass has a similar chemical composition, what we’ve shown is that you can tailor the pre-treatment and the catalyst to valorize any renewable

organic material,” said Hu. This finding opens up opportunities for turning straw and other plant materials into valueadded green hydrogen and biochemicals. Kibria said the next steps in the research will be to “tune the catalyst to capture more of the visible light spectrum,” and then to scale up the photorefinery with an eye to eventual commercialization. “Because biomass captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, we can use this process to take care of the environment and produce green hydrogen and chemicals that are economically viable,” he said.

Health info potentially breached. Be careful what you click! In consultation with the Office of the Saskatchewan Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC), eHealth Saskatchewan (eHS), the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health are providing an update on the eHealth malware attack reported in January 2020 and advising Saskatchewan residents that a privacy breach of personal health information may have occurred as a result of the malware attack.   eHS, SHA and Ministry of Health immediately launched a months-long forensic investigation following the ransomware attack. Following the forensic investigation, eHealth advises that a breach of personal health information has potentially occurred. The breach impacted information on systems administered by eHS for the SHA

and Ministry of Health.   While the forensic investigation rendered no evidence that personal health information was compromised, the investigation was unable to rule out a breach of personal health information. The inability to absolutely verify that no privacy breach occurred is leading to public notification of a potential privacy breach involving personal information or personal health information.   Upon discovery of the malware attack, eHealth Saskatchewan managed to contain and eliminate the malware and restore compromised files. However, the conclusion of a likely privacy breach follows findings in the forensic investigation that some files were sent to a suspicious IP address. Those files had been encrypted during the at-

LEGAL / PUBLIC NOTICES

Regional File: E3/5286

NOTICE Pursuant to

The Water Security Agency Act

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the provisions of The Water Security Agency Act and regulations, application and plans required by Section 61 of the said Act, were filed with the Water Security Agency at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, by the undersigned, for approval to construct and operate works described as: Serafina Energy Ltd. has proposed to install an additional 16 water source wells and their ancillary works at the existing induced surface water infiltration wellfield along the north bank of the North Saskatchewan River at E 1/2 25 45-18 W3 and S 1/2 30- 45-17 W3. Serafina Energy Ltd. has requested an additional 1,830,000 cubic metres of water annually for a new total allocation of 5,490,000 cubic metres of water annually for Serafina Energy Ltd.’s Meota East and Meota Central SAGD projects (enhanced oil recovery). Any person who objects to the granting of this approval may file a written statement, within 30 days from first publication of this notice, outlining the reasons for objection, to the Water Security Agency, Victoria Place, 111 Fairford Street East, Moose Jaw SK S6H 7X9 or comm@wsask.ca.

tack, and were restored from back-ups. Therefore, it is impossible to say with any accuracy precisely what information from the larger group of files was sent to the IP address.   eHS continues to monitor the internet for any signs that Saskatchewan files have found their way into improper hands. The latest six-week scan was completed in November and to date there continues to be no evidence to show this has happened.   The ransomware attack occurred after an employee in the health care sector opened a suspicious attachment in an email and malware was spread throughout Saskatchewan’s IT system. This points to the limitations of cyber-security measures and the need for everyone to be extremely cautious about opening email attachments. This is particularly important at a government workplace, where sensitive information is held.   Since the malware attack, eHS, SHA and Ministry of Health have intensified training for employees on the dangers of opening email with suspicious attachments. eHealth is also continuously making security upgrades to its IT network to strengthen the security environment.   All active SHA staff are required to take mandatory privacy training every three years or as directed. The SHA also has standard privacy and confidentiality policies, including requirements for staff to sign confidentiality agreements to help protect personal health information.  eHS has also recently procured a new program for providing IT security education

to health system physicians and staff that will strengthen knowledge among health care workers about the steps they can take to better protect personal health information from malicious cyber-attacks.   The OIPC has advised eHS, SHA and the Ministry of Health that the malware attack and subsequent response are a topic of a forthcoming investigation report by the OIPC. eHS, SHA and the Ministry of Health await the final findings and recommendations of the OIPC to inform further action that will be taken to address the breach and protect the personal health information of Saskatchewan residents.   This ransomware attack can serve as a reminder to health system employees and every Saskatchewan resident to take these basic steps and protect their information: Monitor all accounts and report suspicious activity immediately; Update all security software and operating systems regularly since these update will include security patches and updated virus definitions; and Use complex passwords and different passwords for all accounts. If you do suspect a breach of your personal health information, you can contact SHA’s Privacy Office at privacy@ s a s k h e a l t h a u t h o r i t y. ca.   Anyone with a concern about privacy and protection of their personal health information can contact the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner: Toll-free (in Saskatchewan) 1-877-748-2298 Email: webmaster@ oipc.sk.ca

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Drinking & driving can take away everything that matters most to you: your freedom, your job, your reputation, your future and even your life. Make a commitment to yourself and others to drive sober this season. This important message is brought to you by these community minded businesses.

300 - 1291 102nd Street North Battleford, SK

306-445-6234

Randy Weekes, MLA Biggar Sask Valley

Toll Free: 1-877-948-4880 randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca

2501 99th Street North Battleford

(306) 445-3300

Ryan Domotor

MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford 306-893-2619 #6 - 116 1st Ave. W., Maidstone domotor.mla@sasktel.net

Strong Leadership Strong Saskatchewan

NORTH BATTLEFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT “Dedicated to Service Excellence” 902 - 104th Street North Battleford, SK 306.445.1770

781 - 110th Street, North Battleford

306-937-2273

GUY’S Furniture & Appliances Ltd. 1822 - 100th Street North Battleford

The Battlefords Constituency

office@jeremycockrill.ca

10010 A Thatcher Avenue North Battleford

www.skytechequipment.com

306-445-5151

VISTA TOWING

306-445-2372

Phone

306 445-8101 www.cherryinsurance.com

Walmart parking lot 1-603 Carlton Trail

306.445.8059

k5insurance.ca

Serving the Battlefords since 1908

Your news source... in print & online!

892-104th Street North Battleford

306.445.7261 www.newsoptimist.ca

Discovery Co-op

www.discoverycoop.com

Eternal Memories

2691-98th St., North Battleford (306) 445-7570 24 hours 1332 - 100th St., North Battleford (306) 446-4200 24 hours

KANAWE YI MI K C H I L D & FA M I LY S E RV I C E S . I N C .

P.O. Box 1270 Battleford, Saskatchewan S0M 0E0

HDC

Contracting & Electrical

Harley Collins

218 - 22nd Street Battleford, SK

306-937-2642

306-480-4330 306-386-3355

9805 Thatcher Ave North Battleford

306-446-2218

KNOW HOW

Doug’s Paint Shoppe Inc.

1561 - 100th Street North Battleford

“Servicing the Battlefords & Area”

306-445-7775

Phone

370 Railway Avenue East North Battleford

TRANSMISSION 5th Avenue West, Battleford, SK

(Battlefords Industrial Park)

306-937-3330 306-937-3707

1392 - 100th Street North Battleford

news-optimist

Twin City

“the Professionals” Get Hooked on Us

1891 - 100th Street 306.445.9418 nbagencies.ca

Funeral Service and Crematorium 306-445-5195 1991-100th Street North Battleford, SK

Regional

Drinking and Driving can change your life in just one shot!

306-446-0545 Jeremy Cockrill, MLA

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

Page 2 28- The - TheBattlefords, Battlefords,Thursday, Thursday,November December12, 24,2020 2020

Serving the Battlefords & Area for over 40 years 142 - 5th Ave. Industrial Battleford

306-937-3777

11412 Railway Ave E North Battleford, SK

306-445-6253

1981 - 100th Street North Battleford Ph. 445-5050 Fax 445-8771 TOLL FREE

1-888-25PRINT

Professional Guaranteed Workmanship

9901 Thatcher Ave. Parsons Industrial Park North Battleford

306-445-3445

306-446-0039

231 - 30th Street W. Battleford, SK

Phone

306-446-2777

CALL

306-445-4500 1821 - 100th Street North Battleford

192 - 24th Street Battleford, Sask. Phone

306-937-7474

www.battlefordfurniture.com

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 29

Just what I don’t want for Christmas this year! As the days to Christmas wind down, an unwanted gift came our way. I told Ed yesterday that one of the secretaries at our church phoned to say she has tested positive for COVID-19. She and her husband are quarantined for 10 days. I was in the church office twice last week wearing my mask. I talked to her from a distance while she was wearing her mask. I am hoping I will miss catching the virus, but nothing is certain. In all this time of COVID-19, no one has tested positive for the illness near us until now. Ed said, “It’s not what you want for Christmas.” I agreed

eighbourly Advice

According to Ed By Raymond Maher

www.accordingtoed.com

revraymaher@accesscomm.ca with him, wholeheartedly. I recognize millions have tested positive throughout the world. COVID-19 has been greedily killing countless numbers and will continue to do so until the vaccines are administered. Perhaps we dismiss the massive number of deaths unless it is a friend

or family member. When the virus hits close to home or infects oneself, there is no denying that the pandemic is real and possibly deadly. Gifts come our way often without warning. Some are welcome and some we are forced to deal with whether we are ready

or not. In the Bible, “Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph, her husband, was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:18,19) Joseph must have questioned God’s intentions in a gift of pregnancy that brought scandal to their marriage. Most often, God’s intentions and actions are hidden from us. We are told in the case of Joseph, “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be

afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. Because he will save his people from their sins.’” (Matthew 1:20,21) When we are ready to understand God’s intentions and actions, He shares them with us. God had promised by his prophet that, “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means, ‘God with us.’” Joseph understood that behind the scandal and a broken relationship, God could be delivering his greatest gift.

God asks us to see beyond what comes our way, whether it seems a good or deadly gift. It is always time for us to wake up to the truth that God is at work accomplishing good out of our sin, sickness and death. In everything, we must allow God’s will to be done. That is what Joseph did. “When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.” (Matthew 1:24,25) Jesus is the vaccine against our infection of sin and death.

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 LITURGY TIMES

Dec. 24-6:00 p.m. Dec. 27-10:00 a.m. Jan. 1-2:00 p.m. Sundays in Jan. 2021 4:00 p.m. Wed. Jan. 6 - 6:00 p.m. COVID protocal in effect. Call Larry at 306-441-5325 to reister

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.

Page 30 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

WHO DOES IT? w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

Professional Directory

AGRICULTURE PARTS

Bob Frolek's

Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance

AGRA PARTS PLUS WRECKING

• Older Tractors • Combines • Swathers • Balers & Tillage • Other Ag Related Equipment

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Derrick Shynkaruk General Contractor

• New Construction • Renovations

306-445-6769

3 miles N.W. on Hwy. 16, 2 1/2 miles west on Sunshine Road

CONSTRUCTION

ET YOUR Co-Jack Construction USINESS Established in 1996 Complete Building Renovations ROWING! Brad Pearson

Box 5 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

Regional News-Optimist

Owner co-jack@sasktel.net

Cell: 306-824-0184 Home: 306-342-2122

Kevin Ryhorchuk

306-441-8727

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

djshynkaruk@gmail.com

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

To Book FIND OUT HOW TO REACH Your Space Now Over 26,000 readers Jeff Schommer plus 99,152 306-481-4892 unique visitors online schommshandymanrenos@yahoo.com

a "To-Do" List? FORWeHave ONLY $39 Will Take Care /week of it!

Call

306.445.7261 ask for Candace

Commentary

Hunkering down – reluctantly – for the holidays

The longer the pandemic and the necessity of restrictions drags on, the costlier it becomes for our inner selves By Ray Pennings

Executive Vice-President, Cardus

If mommy kisses Santa Claus tonight, hopefully they’ll be in the same household bubble. After all, COVID-19 means this is going to be a holiday like no other we’ve experienced before. Canadians’ plans for the holiday season are a reminder to all of us – but especially to those making decisions about lockdowns and public health measures – that life has more than just a physical dimension to it. There are spiritual and social dimensions that matter, and there are physical and mental health dominoes that fall when those aspects of our needs go unmet for too long. Most of us are ready to hunker down for the holidays, according to a new Angus Reid Institute (ARI) survey in partnership with the think-tank Cardus. At the same time, the poll suggests we’re as anxious as ever. In fact, 81 per cent of those surveyed are concerned about family and friends contracting COVID-19 and 84 per cent of us say that the economic “worst is yet to come.” For the most part, we’re following the rules: 85 per cent say that in the last few weeks, we’ve socialized or spent time with fewer than five people outside of our own households. On the other hand, when we think about what this all means for Christmas celebrations, a bit more of a mixed picture emerges. Even though most political leaders and health authorities are urging us to celebrate within just our own households, almost a third of us plan to meet friends or family locally. Ten per cent of Canadians plan to travel to a different community or province to visit friends or family. While normally that would account for about half of Canadians, it reflects an angst that perhaps the COVID rules may not totally suit the season. Separate from any debate on whether such seeming

defiance is justified, and without implying such justification, the desire for community and connection after nine months of soul-sucking pandemic restrictions is understandable. No government program, no bureaucrat and no cheque can meet the needs of the human spirit. Those are needs Canadians often seek to meet in religious ways, which the drive to protect physical health has hampered. With many churches closed in parts of Canada and crowd sizes limited in many others, Christmas-related church attendance – as well as in-person observances for Hanukkah or other non-Christian holidays in this season – will be down this year. According to the latest polling, just 11 per cent of us plan on in-person religious attendance for Christmas or other holidays this year. That’s down from 26 per cent in 2019. Just as we saw at Easter, technology will be a partial solution. Of those who consider Christmas a religious holiday, not just a fun and festive time, 45 per cent will take in some kind of online service – many supplementing it

with other forms of at-home religious observance. The last time Cardus partnered with ARI to survey Canadians about a major holiday – around Easter, Passover and Ramadan last spring – we found religion to be a more significant part of social well-being that many realize. At the start of COVID-19’s first wave with all houses of worship closed, one in five Canadians said either they or someone they knew had received help from a faith community since the start of the outbreak. We also detected Canadians praying or reading sacred texts more than usual. Decision-makers need to know that virtual meetings and greetings only go so far. Again, that’s not to say that pandemic restrictions are unnecessary. Clearly, they are necessary. The vast majority of Canadian religious institutions and adherents are scrupulously observing public health rules. (I even know of one Ottawa church asking anyone driving to a service to leave an empty parking spot on either side of their car in order to maintain social distancing as folks come and go.) But authorities also need to keep in mind that restrictions come with a cost. And the longer the pandemic and the necessity of restrictions drags on, the costlier it becomes for our inner selves. We can do without many of the external trappings of the Christmas holidays. Indeed, many of us are. Workplace parties? Putting up lights? Hanging stockings or sending out cards? All those activities are down, according to the latest survey. But the activities that feed our spirits? We still need those, including what happens under the mistletoe. We’re all better off when authorities recognize and account for those needs. Ray Pennings is executive vice-president of the thinktank Cardus. troymedia.com

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020 - Page 31

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

BOXING WEEK DEALS

Dec. 27th - Jan 3rd Lino Remnants

Carpet Remnants

75% OFF

50% OFF

Way Below Cost! While Quantities last Armstrong Stone Composite Vinyl Plank (Instock only)

$ 99 /sq.ft.

Armstrong and Mohawk Glue Down Commercial Vinyl Plank (Instock only)

$ 99 /sq.ft.

Carpet Tiles (Instock only)

$ .

/sq.ft.

Drop & Go Vinyl Plank • 20 mm wear layer • 100% waterproof • 20 yr commercial warr. • Lifetime residential warr. • 10 colors

79 /sq.ft.

Mohawk Water Proof Revwood Laminate Reg $5.49 sq ft (Instock only)

$ 99

/sq.ft.

DON’T PAY FOR UP TO 6 MONTHS or 0% INTEREST FOR UP TO 24 MONTHS We are your Insurance Specialists. We are ready to serve you on all your Insurance needs.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Monday - Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. SUNDAY & HOLIDAYS 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.

battlefordsflooring@sasktel.net Battlefords flooring centre www.battlefordsflooringcentre.ca

Regional News-Optimist

w w w. n ew s o p t i m i s t . c a

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE

T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

Page 32 - The Battlefords, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Regional

news-optimist Serving the Battlefords since 1908

Present.......

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: Name: ________________________________

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. North Battleford 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

Phone Number: _________________________

1ST PRIZE - $500.00 GIFT CARD TO BATTLEFORD FURNITURE • 2ND PRIZE $100.00 CASH 3RD PRIZE - $50.00 IN CO-OP GIFT CARDS Draws will be random. • Enter as often as you wish. • Entry deadline is Jan 4th 12 noon.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

24 9:00 am - 2:00 pm CHRISTMAS EVE

BOXING WEEK SALE ON NOW

FRIDAY

25 CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

Jan 1

SATURDAY

26 CLOSED BOXING DAY

Jan 2 Closed, the Staff is recuperating from 2020!

CLOSED

8:45 am - 6:00 pm

9:00 am - 2:00 pm NEW YEARS EVE

CLOSED NEW YEARS DAY

8:45 am - 6:00 pm

Jan 3

Jan 4

Jan 5

Jan 6

Jan 7

Jan 8

Jan 9

JANUARY CLEARANCE STARTS NOW! SALE ENDS JAN 31ST CLOSED

8:45 am - 6:00 pm

8:45 am - 7:00 pm

8:45 am - 6:00 pm

192-24th Street West, Battleford Phone 306-937-7474 Fax 306-937-7676 www.battlefordfurniture.com mail@battlefordfurniture.com

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE