Regional News-Optimist June 1, 2023

Witness in arson trial was a hero: counsel

Discovered smoke coming from laundry room

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

Counsel for the defence in a trial being held in North Battleford this week thanked a Crown witness, calling her a hero for banging on tenants’ doors in the middle of the night alerting them the building was on fire.

After getting a call at about 1:25 a.m. on Jan. 3, 2022, when firefighters arrived at 1441 - 102nd St. in North Battleford, they found a three-storey, 20unit apartment building completely engulfed in flames with numerous residents still trapped in their suites.

“Thanks for being the hero that we needed,” defence counsel Carl Swenson said to witness Betsy Guetrey who was testifying Monday for the Crown against his client 42-year-old Naomi Yellowtail who is accused of starting the fire.

Court heard that Guetrey was up late when her stepdaughter and niece said they could smell smoke. Guetrey went downstairs, saw an unidentified man, and discovered smoke coming from the laundry room. She closed the laundry room door and started to

wake up residents.

“I was screaming, ‘There’s a fire, everybody get up,’” Guetrey testified. “I started knocking on doors.”

When Guetrey made it back to her suite on the second floor, the fire was too advanced to get out from the exit so she, along with her partner and the girls, went to the balcony.

Guetrey and her partner lowered the two teenage girls to the ground by holding them by the arms. They were lowered to a railing below and then jumped to safety on the ground.

The family had a pet in the suite they needed to get out. A bedsheet was used to tie around the dog and it was lowered to the ground. The bedsheet fell to the ground with the dog and Guetrey and her partner were left trapped on the balcony.

“My boyfriend grabbed me by the arm,” she testified. “A cop grabbed my shoe to lower me down.”

She said she ended up getting caught on a railing of the balcony before making it to the ground. Her boyfriend jumped off the balcony.

from their second and third-floor balconies.

“We assisted,” she told the court.

She said at one point, her neighbour was trapped on his balcony on the second floor and the smoke was so thick that they lost sight of him standing on the balcony.

Guetrey testified that in the few short months she had lived at the apartment building there were “a lot of intruders” and mailboxes getting broken into.

She told the court that one man would sleep in the laundry room.

“He would get kicked out and always find his way back in there,” she said.

‘Everybody was screaming’: Tenant Tenants Jalena Trvovski and Nikolia Trvoski who lived on the third floor also took the stand Monday.

“Everybody was screaming,” testified Jalena Trvoski. “My oldest daughter called 911 while we were getting up and dressed quick. On the street, the fire department was still not there but the police were there.”

A Snoozing Chick

The Teddy Bear Clinic, bringing together young children and their furry companions, returned to North Battleford this year, and it included baby chicks for the visitors to pet. This baby chick was so comfortable on RCMP Cst. Joshua Trefry’s shoulder that it fell asleep. See more photos inside. |

Looking back on a frightening night

By Travis Poland Excerpted from

the RCMP Gazette

When RCMP in Saskatchewan got a call about an apartment fire on a frigid January night in North Battleford, officers from the local North Battleford detachment were the first on the scene.

ready gathering outside, but many more remained stuck on their balconies yelling for help as smoke filled the hallways. Healey immediately radioed for more officers.

Centre Stage

Guetrey told the court that the police officer and firefighters asked for their help to get other people

She said they saw heavy black smoke coming from the hallway door and knew they couldn’t escape that

Continued on Page 2

When Cst. Heather Healey arrived, she saw intense flames and thick, black smoke pouring out of the three-storey building’s doors. Some building residents were al-

“When I was pulling up, there was tons of smoke. People were out on the balconies screaming for help and people were running around outside the apartment,” says RCMP Sgt. Will Picard.

“It was pure chaos. Everyone was asking for help.”

The fire department was still on its way and

officers had to think fast to help people out of the burning building. Both stairwells in the building were on fire leaving the apartment balconies the only way to safety. Some residents used bedsheet ropes to lower themselves to the ground from the second floor while RCMP officers caught their feet to slow their descent. Picard, Cst. Colton Cassaday, and a handful of residents already outside linked arms to form a basket to catch a family

Continued on Page 2

Photo by Averil Hall / Freelance Photographer

Witness in arson trial was a hero says counsel

Continued frm Page 1 way and headed to their balcony. One of her daughters jumped from the third floor to the ground and injured her leg. The most traumatic part of their escape was when she dropped her son, the youngest child, to the ground from the thirdfloor balcony, testified Jalena Trvovski.

Rapidly growing fire

North Battleford Fire Department Captain Rob Vanstone Campbell testified that when he and one other firefighter initially arrived, smoke and flames were at the front and side entrances and he saw people on the second and third floor balconies wanting their help. He said he and

RCMP officers helped rescue people from their balconies.

Battling the fire, he concentrated his efforts on suite 105.

“It was a rapidly growing fire,” said Vanstone Campbell. “There was so much smoke at times I had to move back a little bit.”

Vanstone Campbell said he alternated his hose nozzle between a straight stream and a fog wider stream.

“A wider stream, that’s ventilation for us as a fireman,” he said, adding that turning the nozzle to make a fog spray helps divert smoke and flame away from a firefighter.

“A lot of time I had to turn it to a fog to get it away from me. That’s how

A frightening night

Continued from Page 1 jumping to safety from their third-floor balcony. One by one, the family members jumped into their arms making it down with only minor injuries.

“The fire was making its way over to their side and I remember thinking in my head: ‘No one is dying tonight. Everyone is getting out.’ I remember saying that over and over to my self. ‘Nobody is going to die tonight,’” says Cassaday. “I’ve been to lots of fires, but nothing as bad as that.”

As officers helped residents, the fire grew. “Within five to ten minutes the

whole bottom floor was on fire,” says Picard. “It surprised me how quick it was.”

When the first two firefighters arrived, officers grabbed a ladder off their truck to help residents on the other side of the building climb down. Then, a resident on the ground said his wife was likely still inside a third-floor apartment. Picard climbed up to check.

“I couldn’t see or hear anything and then all of the sudden I heard some banging on the windows,” says Picard. He climbed over the balcony railing and into the apartment,

much smoke was present. For the most part, I was using a penetrating stream to get at the fire.”

The strong winds that night complicated firefighters’ efforts, court heard.

“I gave up applying water into 105,” he said. “After about 10 minutes I stopped spraying water into that suite. I knew the fire we had was a large fire.”

Vanstone Campbell testified that the fire was burning at the rear of suite 105, about half to threequarters way into the suite.

“The smoke was very abundant. It was black in colour and with strong winds the smoke was funneling. My visibility was poor at times.”

and helped the panicked woman to the balcony for air. By that time, another firetruck arrived and firefighters helped the woman the rest of the way down.

“[Picard] just disappeared into the smoke,” says Cassaday. “We were holding the ladder and the fire was getting closer and the ladder was getting hot. He was running out of time and we were yelling at him to get down.”

After the successful evacuation, 17 residents and six first responders were transported to hospital to be assessed and treated.

“The officers on watch were fantastic that night. Everyone knew we had to buckle down and we were

Non-residents always causing problems

Former building manager Clarence Breker testified that suite 101 was being renovated at the time and someone broke into it and stole half of the new flooring. He said the suite was secured with a deadbolt but someone had used a crowbar to break in.

“I don’t know how they were getting in but that place was broken into three to four times.”

Breker told the court that less than a month before the fire, he had evicted a man in suite 305 who had been living there about three to four months. People not associated with the suite were always there and causing problems.

“I threw people out that

saving lives,” says Picard, the watch commander the night of the fire.

A few weeks after the fire, RCMP Cst. Joshua Trefry, who was on scene helping with the rescues the night of the fire, was running errands while a member of the public stopped to thank him. The man explained how the RCMP helped his wife, who was pregnant, out of the fire that night and how grateful he was for the officers.

“He said: ‘That night of the fire, you [officers] saved my wife. She wouldn’t have made it out if you didn’t help her,’” says Trefry. “That hit me pretty hard and it almost brought me to tears. It’s touching.”

were not supposed to be there, five times, always somebody different, sometimes four or five people.”

He said if the tenant in 305 wasn’t home the intruders would climb up to his third-floor balcony because they knew he never locked the balcony doors.

There were fire extinguishers on each floor and the laundry room.

“All of a sudden they were gone,” said Breker. “Two were missing. I seen it on the couch [in 305] when I was throwing people out. I think they dis-

charged it. There was powder around the hallway.”

In September 2022, Yellowtail’s co-accused, Keeanu Crookedneck was sentenced to three years in prison on a charge of arson with disregard for human life.

During Yellowtail’s four-day trial, Crown prosecutors Scott Bartlett and Cara Hill are expected to call up to 30 witnesses. Yellowtail is represented by Swenson and Mike Nolin. Judge Michelle Baldwin is presiding.

Four injured after car crashes when fleeing from police

SASKTODAY.ca

Four people were taken to hospital with serious injuries after their vehicle hit a ditch when fleeing from police.

On May 27, at approximately 7:15 a.m., an officer with the Battlefords RCMP attempted a traffic stop on the Chevrolet Cruz that was travelling on a grid road on Moosomin First Nation. The officer activated their emergency lights and followed the car, but the car didn’t stop and continued at a high rate of speed before hitting the ditch and rolling. The officer immediately requested assistance from EMS and STARS air ambulance. The officer also assisted the occupants of the ve-

hicle.

A Saskatchewan RCMP traffic analyst also attended the scene to investigate further.

As required by The Police Act, Saskatchewan RCMP notified the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team [SIRT]. SIRT will investigate the Saskatchewan RCMP’s interaction with the vehicle and its occupants.

SIRT’s investigation will examine the conduct of police during this incident. The RCMP will investigate the actions of the vehicles’ occupants. No further information will be released at this time. A final report will be issued to the public within 90 days of the investigation ending.

Trial set for accused in 2011 murder

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A 20-day jury trial will be held in Battleford Court of King’s Bench in April 2024 for two men accused of kidnapping and killing Edward [Ted] Geddes back in April 2011.

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Robert [Bob] Wesley Pich, 59, and John Robert Gregoire, 71, were arrested in February 2022 after an almost year-long investigation by Saskatchewan RCMP Historical Case Unit and RCMP Major Crime Unit.

Pich and Gregoire both face charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping with a firearm. In addition, Pich is also charged with careless use of a firearm, while Gregoire faces an additional charge of indecently interfering with human remains.

Gregoire was released on bail after a show cause hearing in Battleford Court of Queen’s Bench in March 2022. A month later, Gregoire was charged in the R. M. of Hillsdale with four counts of storing loaded unsecured

firearms, possession of a restricted firearm, possession of a restricted firearm with readily accessible ammunition without a license, and possession of a firearm obtained in the commission of an offense.

Those charges are still at the provincial court level and he remains out on bail.

Ted Geddes was 64-years-old when he was last seen in April 2011 in the Baldwinton area. Police had gone to Geddes’ home in Baldwinton with an arrest warrant in an unrelated incident and they found his dog dead in the entrance way. Police say the dog’s death wasn’t from natural causes. At the time, Geddes was wanted for theft over $5,000 stemming from an offence in April 2011 in nearby Neilburg.

After a nearly monthlong search, police found human remains on private land in a rural area approximately three kilometers southwest of Baldwinton in mid-October 2022. RCMP say the person located is believed to be Edward [Ted] Geddes.

House burns overnight in North Battleford, no injuries reported

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Residents of a home on the 700 block of 99th Street escaped from a structure fire early in the morning of May 30.

The structure was en-

gulfed when emergency services personnel arrived, adjacent structures were undamaged and the residents of the home at 742-99th St. were unharmed.

According to a release from the City of North

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Starting June 1, Battleford’s Tot Lot is open for the 2023 summer season. Town of Battleford is reminding residents that the Tot Lot is open to all children under the age of 12, but children

six years and under must be accompanied by a supervisor.

“(A) big thank you to Twin River Concrete for donating concrete so that families and their children can enjoy the outdoors in our community,” said the town in a Facebook post.

The Tot Lot is open

from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. dependent on the weather.

Crafts, games and activities are available at the Tot Lot from Monday to Friday, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m, with more information for July and August activities coming at a later date.

Battleford, a preliminary investigation has determined the cause to be electrical in nature.

The NBFD was dispatched to the fire at 4:27 a.m. and all units were back in service at 8:53 a.m.

National awareness day

June 2 is BGC Club Day

Submitted

BGC Battlefords

Our national awareness day celebrates the lifechanging impact of BGC Clubs in communities across Canada.

On Friday, June 2, BGC Battlefords celebrates BGC Club Day - a national awareness day celebrating the opportunities BGC Clubs across Canada create for nearly 150,000 young people and their families each year. Of those 150,000, over 660 are served right here at BGC Battlefords. We provide services to all children and youth in and around the Battlefords between the ages of 5-18 years.

City rescinds fire ban

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The City of North Battleford rescinded its fire ban on May 25 due to recent precipitation and upcoming weather forecast in the Battlefords region after being initially issued on May 2.

The city is also reminding residents that in order to initiate any openair burns or to use a fire pit on their property, the North Battleford Fire Department does require a permit.

“Permits are provided after Fire Department personnel complete an

inspection to ensure that fires are burned in a way that minimizes the risk of fire spreading to surrounding property and structures and reduces overall harm,” reads a release from the city.

To apply for a fire permit, visit the City of North Battleford’s website.

Formerly known as Battlefords Boys and Girls Club, BGC Battlefords’ programs support children and youth to realize positive outcomes in self-expression, academics, healthy living, physical activity, job readiness, mental health, leadership, and more.

We believe that opportunity changes everything and see this happening in our Club every day.

While we support children and youth, we also celebrate our staff. Many staff members are youth themselves, and the Club provides them with their first job or spark a passion for community work. Many staff go on to pursue a similar field in their post-

secondary education.

BGC Battlefords recently surveyed children and youth at our Club about how their time with us has impacted them. We found that because of the Club:

• Children and youth are more physically active.

• Children and youth feel more comfortable being themselves.

• Children and youth are more confident about their futures.

• Children and youth are more excited to try new things.

• Children and youth are better prepared to do their schoolwork.

• Children and youth are more confident in their abilities.

• Children and youth are more comfortable leading.

The impact BGC Battlefords makes on children stays with them throughout their lives. Former Club kids, volunteers, and staff members often share stories of their cherished Club memories and tell us about unbelievable impact the Club has had on their lives.

We want to continue this tradition going, taking more significant strides toward making the lives of our youth and children vibrant and filled with values. We here at BGC Battlefords want to nurture a safe and supportive environment where kids can experience new oppor-

tunities, build positive and healthy relationships and gain essential life skills, all while being respected, feeling a sense of belonging and having the support to achieve their dreams. We know the journey isn’t easy, but it can be achieved with patience, determination and the proper guidance. We are here to provide that guidance. Cause nothing makes us happier than learning about their success stories.

On #BGCClubDay we will celebrate the opportunities we create for young people.

• Flag Raising and Proclamation Signing Ceremony at City Hall at 10 a.m. with local elected officials. This event is open to the public- we’d love to see you all there!

• Club celebration at the Main Site for our members and their families from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. This will include a delicious barbecue, bouncy castles, face painting, balloon man, and more thanks to our sponsor, Bridges Chevrolet Buick GMC.

You can also be a part of the unbelievable impact we have in our community. Whether you’re a former or current Club member, a BGC supporter or have kids who go to our Club, share your story on social media on Friday, June 2, with the hashtag #BGCClubDay and tag us @bgcbattlefords!

Residents of a home on the 700 block of 99th Street were able to escape uninjured after fire broke out in the early morning of May 30. |

Photo by Miguel Fenrich

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Phone: 306-445-7261 Fax: 306-445-3223

Email: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

Letter Flowers appreciated by Valleyview II residents

Dear Editor

On behalf of the tenants at Valley View Towers II, I would like to thank Jaylene, Patty and Curtis from the Battlefords Housing Authority office, who prepared the soil and planted the flowers in the tubs surrounding the building. Thanks also to the tenants who helped.

Also, we the tenants. think Valleyview Towers II is a very nice place to live.

Marie Sobieski North Battleford

Letter Rider Pride? I don’t think so

Dear Editor

I am writing concerning my car. It was parked on the 1900 block of 99th Street when a person or persons removed my Rider plate from the front of the vehicle which is a brown 2006 Chev Impala. If they would bring it back, I won’t say anything. If they don’t, and I see a vehicle with a rider plate with silver background, I will be asking questions. It has a special mark on it.

George Fenrich North Battleford

Letter

Offer disgruntled Alberta healthcare workers a soft landing

Dear Editor

Many experienced, well-trained physicians and medical specialists, tired of being dismissed and undermined by the Alberta Government, are looking for new practice opportunities.

Now is the time to heavily recruit doctors, nurses and allied health personnel. It is time for Saskatchewan Health Authority to step up and offer the “next door” physicians a safe landing; one which appreciates them, appreciates evidence-based medicine and best practice. North Battleford is in sore need of physicians, and our MLA is in a good position to secure strong health-care services for us.

Now is the time to improve our health-care outcomes and our health indicators by hiring physicians from Alberta.

Keltie Paul The Battlefords

The commentaries offered on this editorial page are intended to provide thought-provoking material for our readers. Contributors’ articles, cartoons or letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of any Regional News-Optimist staff.

Dear Editor

“It would appear that garbage being dumped in the back alleys behind residential property is beginning to rise again.” The words spoken by Stewart Schaefer are not lies. Pollution is one of the biggest problems our planet must face and it’s only because of us. In fact, in 2021, around 86 per cent of Canadians live in areas where pollution is rising. The cause of garbage being thrown randomly in places is not specific.

The City of North Battleford has been sending out notices of garbage or objects in the back alleys outside of property-owners’ fences. Once it is seen there are objects, a notice is sent with a warning of a fine to pay if the object is not removed. Objects in the back alleys are the least of concerns in North Battleford. What other cities would have four community safety officers and three RCMP members arrest two men who were just sitting outside of the public library? It’s more than obvious that after this event happened in 2018 there was something definitely wrong with our city.

E-mail: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

l’appui financier du gouvernement du Canada.

The city is worried about a table that was standing against our fence. They were willing to fine us if we did not remove it. For those of you that have not received a notice, you might be thinking a fine of $30 to maybe $50. No. The fines start at $100 dollars and go up to $10,000. For a table in the back alley. Now here’s where I’m confused. Why do they even think it’s our table?

People could be at risk of being fined hundreds of dollars for something that was put up against their fence that doesn’t even belong to them, and yet the property owner is still being held responsible and must properly dispose of someone else’s trash. How does this make any sense whatsoever?

I strongly think this is just another way for the city to get some good hard cash to pay for these safety officers who are driving around trying to look like they actually know what they are doing. Instead of the city having high-paid employees to check on the condition of our back alleys, they should take a look at the houses that

Continued on Page 5

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Editorial Jayne Foster Editor SASKTODAY.ca

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WoodPile The Theocracy

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

I have been reliably informed that this country is no longer a Democracy – it is a Theocracy. The word democracy is derived from” demos” in Greek meaning people. A theocracy is a form of government where one individual by accident, design or inattention has percolated to the top and rules as a deity with a small group of automatons (Nellie McClung), yes men or yes ladies or mindless nincompoops unable to think for themselves.

As for the current furore over an inquiry

into foreign interference into Canadian affairs, we now have a Punch and Judy goon show. The wish of parliament was set aside as being nonbinding and there is now a call for the rapporteur to be replaced by someone who will provide an opinion acceptable to the opposition parties. The intractable, intransigent, stubborn Mr. Trudeau is not going to change his position or replace Mr. Johnston and Mr. Singh is in an unenviable bind of his own making. My suggestion is that Jody Wilson-Raybould, not known to be a Trudeau family friend, should be asked to sort out this

rather unseemly mess. In late September 1950, in my hometown in Scotland. I was observing that the windscreen of the vehicle I had been in, possibly an American Ford gas guzzler, was tinted. “Not at all”, I was informed, “just look at the sky”. Indeed, there was a haze and even the sun was blue due to smoke from fires in Canada. That fall, the Chinchaga fire in northern B.C. and Alberta, caused perhaps by oil surveyors lighting smudges to protect their horses from hordes of insects, burned four million acres or about four times the area of Prince Edward Island. The

Burlesque Performance Comes to N.B.

smoke caused streetlights to come on during the day in Toronto, spread down to Florida, crossed the Atlantic to Scotland and eventually reached Denmark. Forest fires are not a new phenomenon, can’t be completely blamed on climate change and global warming and were a continuous source of concern for early settlers.

After the war and especially around the time of the “big smoke” deindustrialization in central Scotland set in with a vengeance. Some in retrospect described this as evolutionary. Heavy industry and shipbuilding simply collapsed. Those in my

hometown still with jobs in the neighbouring steel works (Colville’s) took packs of playing cards with them. Governmental support created large industrial estates to provide jobs for the unemployed at Newhouse between Glasgow and Edinburgh and at Linwood near Renfrew where the unsatisfactory Hillman Imp car was built. The Stellantis battery plant problem reminded me of those days. Industries, businesses, customs, language and even people’s thoughts and opinions should be allowed to evolve and not be artificially influenced by the ideologies of one or a few.

Letter - dumping issue

Continued from Page 4 are boarded up, the fences that are falling down and the yards full of old vehicles with grass and weeds growing around them. Now there are eye sores, but they waste their time with a table in the back alley. Whoever made this a top priority is in the wrong position. If that’s all it takes, I am going to apply for that job with no experience needed. I believe it is foolish when the city has workers go out one day to fill the cracks in the streets with sand and gravel and a few days later the sweeper comes along and sweeps it all away. Goodbye, taxpayers’ money. Also, I don’t see why the back alleys are such a concern when the real streets that people actually drive on every day and night are being torn apart and then left in a mess. Well, at least they put

some sand in the holes to make it easier to drive on. That makes just as much sense as watching our back alleys being graded instead of our streets which are actually the problem.

It seems that instead of giving notices to the people whose back alleys look like they haven’t been cleaned in several months, the city is giving notices to the people who make an actual and noticeable effort to look after their places. Instead of placing fines on people to get money to fix the city’s problems, why can’t they just take responsibility when they mess up our city with the decisions they choose to make Why do we have to look after the city while they sit on their butts in meetings instead of looking after the problems in a reasonable way? Why are the residents of North Battleford being targeted?

Gerald Gratton North Battleford

The Dekker Centre finished its 2022-23 season with a fiery, exciting, and sometimes sultry performance from Saskatoon’s Rosebud Burlesque group, who brought their first full show since Covid-19 to the Battlefords on May 26. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

Everybody has a story Gilbert Katerynych: Sask. photographer drawn to the camera

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Even though Gilbert Katerynych has spent years looking through the lens, taking thousands of photos of old churches and homesteads, the changing of the seasons, combines churning grain and wildlife set against the backdrop of a setting sun or rising moon, his first experiment with a film camera in junior high was, by all metrics, a disaster.

“It didn’t go very well,” Katerynych said to the News-Optimist/SASKTODAY.ca, recounting his tale of film not feeding through one of the first cameras he used in his school’s photography club and accidentally taking all his pictures on a single frame.

“I just lost interest there,” he said, unaware that over two decades after his graduation in 1994, he would end up as the Battlefords most renowned nature photographer.

During his early 20s, Katerynych bounced from job to job and place to place, searching for a passion he wasn’t sure existed. Travelling west, he found himself in Calgary.

“ I was just kinda blundering about ... I just didn’t find my path until later,” he noted, finally picking up his first digital camera in 2006, a Canon Powershot A70 in his late 20s, early 30s.

The rest was history.

“I just kinda blew the lid off it all ... just being able to keep taking pictures, over and over and over again,” Katerynych said.

And with those repeated opportunities, Katerynych is able to capture images like lightning over the lighthouse at Cochin, a coyote running through a field near the Saskatchewan Hospital, or key landmarks in the area like the old Battleford bridges or the North Battleford water tower.

But before returning to the Battlefords to take these pictures, he experimented with his rekindled love of the camera in Calgary with little success.

“...(I) didn’t grow a following in Calgary ... I was just one of many,” he said, noting that he dabbled in wedding photography and cityscapes but didn’t enjoy it at all.

“I just decided I would enjoy what I enjoy doing in-

stead of forcing myself to do things I don’t enjoy just to make money on it.”

Then, in the early 2010s, he moved back to the Battlefords to be with his father, who had been diagnosed with cancer. Then, when his father passed in 2011, he realized his second passion.

His time spent in the palliative unit convinced Katerynych to get his nursing degree and he is now working as registered nurse in the palliative unit at Battlefords Union Hospital.

Why photography?

And despite being a photographer at heart, the hardest question for Katerynych to answer is why he loves photography as much as he does. Is it a

calling, a passion, a need? He isn’t sure, but he has to do it.

“I don’t know why exactly, that’s difficult to pin down an exact why ... I just do.”

When he isn’t working in the hospital, he spends a good deal of his time staking out new places to take his pictures and scouting out times when he can get that perfect shot.

“I grew up here, and I’ve been finding places I didn’t know were here at all.

“...there’s really lots of planning involved, the execution, getting up, going out and exploring, and having luck on your side for everything to come together ... and just to line things up with the sun or the moon, or the milky way, the stars,” he said.

“That’s part of the challenge now,” he said, “trying to find something new in the area.”

His photography spans the Battlefords and just beyond to catch the local satellite communities, including Whitko and Prongua. And nature just calls to him in a way that people and cityscapes just don’t.

“I always like a quiet place ... without people around,” he said, noting the differences between his sterile, hygienic workplace with machines and br ight white lights. Katerynych said his job is like spending 12 hours inside a box on the third floor surrounded by co-workers, a stark contrast to exploring the prairie landscape for photos.

“...death is a constant in my unit, but I enjoy helping people through that spot.”

Katerynych noted that he was also lucky to be able to juggle both of his passions through COVID-19, adding that a lot of established photographers got out of photography due to the pandemic.

“I have a good pension plan,” he said, laughing “...I was fortunate.”

A happy accident made this image come together. He had followed directions poorly and ended up on the far side of the field. The family here had just finished supper and ended up in an accidental formation as they drove their combines toward the setting sun. He remembers running through the stubble to get into position and capture this moment. Taken Sept. 30, 2020.

Gilbert

a

can compress the foreground and background together giving the impression that all the subjects are much closer to each other than they actually are. The effect makes the elevator at the WDM appear nestled in a frost-covered forest. Taken

And though he was unable to gather a following in Calgary, he’s attracted a dedicated fan base of just shy of 3,000 people in the Battlefords.

On May 6, he even held the largest printed collection of his work

The lightning and the Cochin Days fireworks were going off at the same time and he had to make a decision... ‘Do I shoot the fireworks? Or do I point my lens to lighthouse and capture this shot?’ He’ll get the fireworks next year. Taken Aug. 13, 2022.

While walking his dogs on the grounds of the old Saskatchewan Hospital, Katerynych found this coyote following him for a while, and wasn’t quiet about it. He happened to have his telephone with me and captured this moment when his eyes and mouth were closed, making him look serene even though his behaviour at the time was anything but. Taken Sept. 17, 2022.

to date at ARTageous, one of North Battleford’s resident art watering holes, run by Jocelyn Schmunk. It was Schmunk, after all, who insisted Katerynych display his artwork there.

“The show with Gilbert Katerynych had a great turnout,” Schmunk said to the News-Optimist/SASKTODAY.ca

“...it is wonderful that the Battlefords has such a talented photographer...the Battlefords [is] a hidden gem, [and] Gilbert captures

all the beauty.” Katerynych attributes the love and attention his photos have gotten mostly to nostalgia, Battleford expats who are no longer able to see their old stomping grounds.

“It’s nostalgia for them,” he said, noting that he’s also found a niche here in the Battlefords.

Maybe it is nostalgia, or perhaps it’s the love of a good photo, or maybe it’s Katerynych’s passion and love for photography coming through. Who knows?

Gilbert Katerynych is a North Battleford photographer and registered nurse at BUH.

One of the things Gilbert Katerynych enjoys most about the Battlefords is the river valley. It provides so many photo opportunities in all seasons, like this image taken before sunrise when the colour filled the sky and mist rolled through the valley. Taken Sept. 15, 2019.

Katerynych loves the way

telephoto lens

Jan. 13, 2023.

A magical day at the Teddy Bear Clinic celebrating the joy of childhood

By Averil Hall Freelance Photographer/ Reporter

The Teddy Bear Clinic, the annual event that

brings together young children and their furry companions, returned to North Battleford this year. Held for the first time since 2019, attendees were

eager to experience the magic once again. Anticipation was high as organizers hoped to match or even exceed the attendance of 500 children from the last event. The day proved to be a success, creating memories for all who attended.

From the moment families entered the grounds behind the North Battleford library, they were greeted by engaging and sensorypacked activities. The picnic was a sensory offering a variety of experiences that sparked imagination and creativity and uniting families from diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of childhood.

This year’s Teddy Bear Clinic theme of “We Are Growing,” celebrates the milestones and development of young children. Various stations were dedicated to educational and developmental activities,

encouraging children to explore and learn through play. Interactive exhibits offered opportunities for sensory exploration, problem-solving, and fine motor skill development. Many stations offered gifts for the children to take home. Teddy bears for children were available to take home if one wasn’t brought.

The success of the Teddy Bear Clinic would not have been possible without the incredible support of the community. About 30 local businesses sponsored the event, providing resources, prizes, and support.

Volunteers from schools, community organizations, and dedicated individuals contributed their time and energy to ensure that the event ran smoothly. The collaboration between organizers, sponsors, and volunteers created a sense of unity and community spirit that further enriched the experience for everyone involved.

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Doctors were on hand to give the teddy bears a check up and teach the children the importance of keeping healthy.

This little boy was learning how to cut vegetables.

Children loved to be able to hold and pet the baby chicks.

This girl’s teddy was being weighed at the immunization station.

| Photos by Averil Hall / Freelance Photographer

Learning how to brush teeth correctly.

Growth That Works For Everyone Protecting Firearms Owners

The Saskatchewan Firearms Act is now in effect. The Act protects the rights of lawful firearms owners across the province and enhances public safety. This legislation reflects our commitment to keeping Saskatchewan people and communities safe, while also addressing violent gun crime and promoting responsible firearms ownership in our province. Learn more at Saskatchewan.ca

306-893-2619

Art Notes

Gardeners exhibit knowledge of design principles

By Lorraine Voegeli Battlefords Art

At this time of year, we notice the stunning array of flowers and other plants in many yards and balconies. Floral design is the ability to make an eyecatching and harmonious composition or display. We soon realize that many of our residents are exhibiting a great knowledge of

design principles.

Take for example, as you choose a thriller, a filler and a spiller for your potted plants, how a successful combination becomes an awesome source of beauty. Those of us in the art club use these similar design principles and often are inspired by colourful outdoor splendour. Those displays provide us with great subject mat-

ter as well as pride in our community.

Thank you to those who provided some subject matter and those artists that so ably captured the beauty around us. If you wish to see more of our artwork you’re invited to our art show and sale June 29 and 30 at the Chapel Gallery. Hope to see you there!

Feast at The Ridge marks conclusion of radar scan

The search for unmarked graves in Battleford at the site of a former residential school culminated on May 25 with a feast open to the public, with results expected sometime in June.

The ground penetrating radar at the site of a former industrial school and seat of government began on May 19, jump-started by Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation after they were awarded $5.82 million from the

provincial and federal government to fund the creation of an interpretive cultural centre at The Ridge.

Organizers of the Feast at the Ridge included Alayna and Shalice Tootoosis, Cheryl Starr, Fenton Favel, Grant Beaudry and Chris Odishaw.

“The purpose is to find our people and the First Nation children who went to these schools that never made it home and were never accounted for,” Grant Beaudry, CEO of MGBHLM Econmoic Development Corporation Inc.,

told the News-Optimist in an earlier statement.

“We can’t just go in and build … we have to respect,” Beaudry said, adding that “...we remember those who have passed before,” which is why the feast was held.

The search, with the help of the University of Saskatchewan’s anthropology and archaeology department, began with opening prayers aided by FSIN Senator Jenny Spyglass and a pipe ceremony at the site of the school on the morning of May 19.

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

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

Club

Creations inspired by the community’s gardeners. |

Photos submitted

SASKTODAY.ca

Organizers of the Feast at the Ridge: Alayna Tootoosis, Researcher, BATC, Acahkos Awasisak-IRS Survivors, and her daughter Shalice; Cheryl Starr, MGBHLM Economic Development; Fenton Favel, Project Manager, BATC, Acahkos Awasisak-IRS Survivors; Grant Beaudry, CEO, MGBHLM Economic Development; Chris Odishaw, Board Directors MGBHLM Economic Development. | Photo by Averil Hall / Freelance Photographer

Knights of Columbus donate nearly $15,000

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The Battlefords branch of the Knights of Columbus recently made donations to their projects in April. .Thomas Schwab, financial secretary for the North Battleford Kings of Colombus, presents jackets to Little Pine School The money donated was raised through the sale of charity appeal tickets and grants from Saskatchewan Lotteries

Donations included: Coats for Kids at Pound-

maker and Little Pine First Nation; Battlefords Search and Rescue; Catholic Family Services; All Saints Ukrainian Catholic Parish; Battlefords District Care; Villa Pascal Recreation; River Heights Lodge; and Cat Chat Vacation Bible School.

A press release notes that donations also include Notre Dame Parish, the Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus Charitable Foundation, John Paul II Leadership, and the Empty Stocking Fund at Christmas.

Thomas Schwab, financial secretary for the North Battleford Kings of Colombus, presents

Little Pine School. | Photos submitted

Thomas Schwab presents coats to Poundmaker School.

Thomas Schwab presents a donation to Don Elliot of Battleford’s Search and Rescue.

Thomas Schwab and John Vany, grand knight of the North Battleford Knights of Colombus, present a donation to Chad Ku of Catholic Family Services.

Vany presents

donation to Paul Kardinal of

Ukrainian Catholic Parish.

Thomas Schwab and John Vany present a donation to nursing directors at Battlefords District Care.

Thomas Schwab and John Vany present a donation to Karen Pernala at Villa Pascal.

Thomas Schwab and John Vany present a donation to Kelly Day at River Height’s Lodge.

Thomas Schwab presents a donation to Chrystal Wandler of Cat Chat Vacation Bible School.

Bresaylor Happenings

Telegraph connection in 1886

By Robert Peterson Bresaylor Heritage Museum

In 1876, a telegraph line was built four miles south of what was later to become the Bresaylor settlement. That line went from Battleford to Leduc. Alta. and then to Edmonton, along what was originally surveyed to be the CPR line across Canada. The government later changed the route of the CPR line to run through Regina and moved the capital from Battleford to Regina.

This early telegraph line consisted of poplar poles and light wire. The poles could burn down from lightning strikes or prairie fires. Cattle and buffalo would rub on the poles, knocking them down and breaking the wire.

The 1885 resistance made it clear to the government that they needed connection to Bresaylor, Fort Pitt, Mooswa, Saddle Lake, Victoria and Fort Saskatchewan. A new line was constructed through the Bresaylor settlement along the Fort Pitt trail to Edmonton, crossing the North Saskatchewan River at Fort Pitt. In 1886,

the new line was built with tamarack poles from Fort Pitt to Edmonton. Steel poles with heavier wire and insulators were used from Battleford to Fort Pitt. These steel poles were lightning and fire resistant, and couldn’t be knocked down by animals. A repair terminal was set up approximately every 33 miles.

The Alex Sayers house, located beside the Fort Pitt trail and approximately 33 miles from Battleford, became the first telegraph office in the Bresaylor settlement. Alex was going through a difficult period in his life. He lived in an older, smaller house which he had built in 1882. He married in 1884 and started building a larger house for his future family. When the land was surveyed in 1885, he found his new house was on the road allowance and he had to move it over 15 feet. His wife gave birth to twins who died shortly after birth. In 1886, she gave birth to a son, but she died from complications due to childbirth. With the Dominion Telegraph looking for an office and Alex no longer needing his new house for just himself and

Borden and District News

The

became the first telegraph office in the Bresaylor settlement. | Images courtesy Bresaylor Heritage Museum

the baby, he rented out the larger house to the telegraph company for $10 a month. It would have also served as a repair depot for one or two repairmen and probably a home for their families.

Alex remarried and by 1895 his family had grown to need a bigger house. He moved his family into the larger house, and the telegraph office moved to a building which was half a mile southeast. This building also became the post office. With the coming of the railroad in 1905, the hamlet of Bresaylor was established at the siding two miles west of Alex

Sayers’ house. In 1907, the telegraph office was moved to the house that is now the main museum building in the hamlet.

Mark July 30 on your calendar. The Bresaylor Heritage Museum will be hosting its annual potluck. The museum will be open to the public all day. This year is the 40th anniversary since the Bresaylor Heritage Museum Committee took over running the museum that Joe Sayers had started.

The Bresaylor Heritage Museum is open again for the summer by appointment only from June 1 to Sept. 4. Please phone

Early telegraph lines consisted of poplar poles and light wire. The poles could burn down from lightning strikes or prairie fires. Cattle and buffalo would rub on the poles, knocking them down and breaking the wire.

Enola at 306-893-8002 or Bob at 306-895-2075 to arrange a guided tour by one of our volunteer

staff. Check out the Bresaylor Heritage Museum Facebook page for more information.

Borden Motion Movers reach globetrotting goal

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By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

The Borden Friendship Club held their monthly potluck supper May 25, in the Borden Community Centre with over 60 members and guests on hand to enjoy a great meal. Blowing out the birthday candles were Jean Longmore, Heather Penner, Julia Bezugly, Ruby Wall and Rosann Carr. Ruben Rempel, after telling a few of his jokes, introduced the entertainers – Oldtimers from Battleford and North

Battleford – Ray Seib on drums, Gary Wappel playing bass guitar, Willy Leibel plays clarinet and saxophone and Doug Sylvester plays lead guitar and vocals. The group played many danceable instrumental waltzes, polkas, fox trots and old-time waltzes. Doug sang for Goodbye Joe, Ring of Fire, Don’t Be Cruel and a few more, closing with Show Me the Way to Go Home.

Next up for the club is their invitational supper and program on June 8 at 6 p.m. when guests from

Radisson, Maymont and Langham will be coming and the entertainment will be Cam Country.

A forever-in-motion group called the Borden Motion Movers, which meet twice a week at 10 a.m. in the Friendship Club Room, was part of a team that took part in an SCOA Globe walk from January to April, reaching their goal of San Jose, Costa Rica, approximately 6,700 kilometres. Borden is teamed with Hot to Trot, Bridge City Seniors Action

Continued on Page 18

Alex Sayers house, located beside the Fort Pitt Trail and approximately 33 miles from Battleford,

Borden Friendship Club members celebrating May birthdays are: back rowRosann Carr, Ruby Wall; seated - Jean Longmore, Heather Penner and Julia Bezugly. | Photos by Lorraine Olinyk

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CARD OF THANKS

The family of Irene Askew would like to Thank all those who attended Irene’s Celebration of Life.

Thank you to: The Rev. Sheldon Gattinger for conducting the Service; Ilene Wettergreen for sharing her musical talent; the Blend for the funeral luncheon and those who sent flowers and made charitable donations in Irene’s memory.

Thank you to Harwood Manor staff for compassionate care and support of Irene during various levels of wellness during her tenure in the Battlefords. Thank you to Vanessa Macnab at Eternal Memories for her guidance and expertise in our time of need.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

JENNY – Margery (Nee Heaver. Formerly Smith) Jun. 5, 1913 –Jan. 20, 2023 The Celebration of Life for Margery Jenny will be held at the Western Development Museum – Music Theatre on Saturday, June 10 from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. The museum is located at the junction of Hwy 16 & Hwy 40 North Battleford. Interment of her ashes will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens (further southeast on Hwy 16). Margery was a long-time resident of the farming community of Rayner Heights near Baljennie with her former husband William (Bill) Smith and four children: Harvey, Rodney, Gordon and Shirley. After her marriage in 1981 to Carl Jenny she resided in British Columbia and most recently Edmonton.

OBITUARIES

COOPER: It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Mrs. Emily Cooper on Monday, May 15, 2023, at the age of 84 years. A Private Graveside Service was held on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at North Battleford City Cemetery with Reverend Jo Ann Hills officiating. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & CrematoriumTrevor Watts Funeral Director.

ANNOUNCEMENTS COMING EVENTS

A Celebration of life

will be held for

BRUCE CRAWFORD

at the Battleford Legion Hall, Saturday, June 3rd at 2:30 pm.

THOM: Vernon (Bun) Thom passed away on May 21, 2023 in Edam, Saskatchewan at the age of 92. Dad was born in Edam and raised on the farm west of Edam in the Poplar Dell District. He loved all aspects of farm life and worked hard for what he had. Dad had a great love for horses and family. He enjoyed many hours spent with his horses throughout the years. Dad also enjoyed his friends over the years and activities such as snowmobiling, dancing and riding his quad and motorcycle. He moved to his second permanent home in Edam in 1981, where he and mom enjoyed many years living the town life, including going for morning coffee and later riding his scooter around town. Dad was very lucky to be able to move into the Edam Enriched Manor May of 2015 and into Lady Minto Health Care Facility in December 2020. Other than a short time away working down east and in Edmonton he always called Edam home, which was truly a blessing. Bun is lovingly remembered by his daughter Wendy (Linton) and their daughter Nicola; daughter Tannys and her daughter Meagan (Jason). Sisters Lois (Lloyd) Wilson, Lola (Don) Draper and sister-in-law Vi Thom; as well as nieces and nephews. Bun is predeceased by his loving wife Shirley, his brother Bill, his mother Jeanette and father Harold; as well as; his mother and father-in-law Florence and Roy Down; sisters and brothers-in-law Jean and Jim Kuzyk, Mickey and Ray Russell, Marion and Marcel deMontarnal; as well as nieces: Barb Luciw and Betty Kuzyk and nephew Marcel deMontarnal. Celebration of Life was held at the Edam Community Centre on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Interment followed at the Edam Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to Lady Minto Health Care Facility or Alzheimer’s Society. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium - Trevor Watts Funeral Director.

MATTHEW ROBINSON

June 2, 1997 - June 6, 2015 When

RallyDayinCentralPark

WereyoueverinScouting?Doyou stillhaveyourBeaverBuggy,Kub KarorScoutTruck?Ifso,dustitoff andcomejoinusatthisyear's7th AnnualRallyDay!

The2ndNorthBattlefordScouting GroupwillbemeetingatCentral ParkonMonday,June12thfrom68pmtoracetheirvehicles.Weare eagertoraceagainstalumniso wouldlovetoseeyouthere!Please registeryourparticipationat: bit.ly/rallyday2023

TheRallyoffersseveral opportunitiesforparticipantsto demonstratetheirvehicle's attributes:speedanddesign.In eachagecategoryweareoffering prizes.Ifyouareabusiness interestedinhelpingusfillourprize table,pleasecall(306-400-2088)or emailus(2nbscouts@gmail.com).

OnceaScout,alwaysaScout!

In Loving Memory

of my son

Jason Jackson

October 9, 1973 - June 1, 2015

May the winds of love blow softly and whisper in your ear “I love and miss you Jason and wish that you were here.” Deep in my heart, your life is kept to love and cherish, not forget. No more tomorrows I can share but yesterdays are always there.

A silent thought, a secret tear keeps your memory ever near in my heart forever.

Colleen Côté .................................................. Medstead

Claudette Bidart ....................................North Battleford

Helen Semeniuk ...................................North Battleford

Shelley Scherman .......................................... Battleford

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

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

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

Walter T. Nelson North Battleford

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

Dr. Iain Weston North Battleford

Dean Williams North Battleford

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

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

Donald Gabruck.....................................North Battleford

Gary Kopp ...................................................... Battleford

Archie Collins

Nolys Waterhouse North Battleford

Betty Ann Doig Battleford

Yaris Nikiforuk ........................................North Battleford

Ralph Lange ....................................................... Mayfair

David Bunnell.........................................North Battleford

Ernest (Ernie) Svenkeson......................North Battleford

Shannon Bec ........................................................ Edam

Charitable

MEETINGS

Notice of Annual General Meeting for

Tuesday, June 20, 2023, 7:00 p.m.at the Pfeifer Learning Centre 801 – 105th Street North Battleford, SK

Applications for new membership must in by and renewal of Memberships must be paid by 3:00 p.m. June 13, 2023.

Annual General Meeting

Thursday, June 22nd, 2023 11:45 a.m.

Contact Cheri at (306) 445-6960 for more information

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords

FUNERAL SERVICES

FOR SALE - MISC

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.

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

John deer 1850 Air drill 61 feet, 10 inch spacing, double shoot, 1900 air tank - asking $35,000.

John deer 8640 tractor - asking $22,022 obo.

75C Caterpillar Tractor - asking $50,000 obo.

100 foot sprayer End flare booms and disk markers - $1,550 Contact Victor Hult 306-893-7600. Landscaping rock for sale must load yourself. Call for information 306-226-4646

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS.

49 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306- 649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details

WANTED

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT

INDEPENDENT ADULT LIVING

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. CALL ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 446-6166

JUNE at The Club

It’s more FUN in the SUN!

June is kicking off with BGC Club Day on Friday, June 2nd. Join us for a flag raising and proclamation signing ceremony at City Hall at 10:00 am followed by a celebration at the Main Site (4:30pm-6:00pm) for our members and their families, sponsored by Bridges Chevrolet Buick GMC. The celebration will include a delicious BBQ, bouncy castles, face painting, outdoor games and more!

Summer is coming and we have some GOOD NEWS! - Our highly anticipated (and attended) Summer Adventure Day Camps are NOW OPEN FOR REGISTRATION! Starting July 3rd (concluding August 25th), we will be offering 8 weeks of SUMMER FUN for our members 5-14 years of age. The hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 5:30pm and breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack are provided at NO EXTRA CHARGE! $150/week or $50/day. Check out our weekly themes (and field trips) on our Facebook page and website. This year, we have LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE, so register your child(ren) NOW! Don’t forget about our Summer Parks Drop-in Program offered at 3 locationsSenator Herb Sparrow Park, Kinsmen Park and Centennial Park. This program is FREE OF CHARGE for members and operates Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 4:00pm (weather permitting, closed stat holidays). Themes and fun activities/ crafts, along with a TON of SPLASH PARK FUN will keep children aged 5-14 busy throughout July and August. This year, we are excited to offer a bagged lunch and snack for each participant, at no cost! For more information on our summer programs, check out our website: www.bgcbattlefords.ca.

The LAST DAY OF SCHOOL is Wednesday, June 28th and with the end of the School Year, so too concludes our School Year Programming (Drop-in Program, Satellite Site Programs, Special Programs). All programming is CLOSED effective Thursday, June 29th for Summer staff training as well as for the Canada Day holiday.

What’s Happening in June: - June – Pride Month

- June 2 – BGC Club Day

- June 3 BEATS Wind Up

- June 15 – FFUN Dodge Race for Kids 2023

- June 21 – National Indigenous Peoples Day

- June 28 – Last Day of School

- June 29 – all programming CLOSED

- June 30 programming & office CLOSED

LIVESTOCK

Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 year old bulls.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of CURTIS EDGAR PARKINSON, late of Battleford, Saskatchewan, deceased.

ALL CLAIMS against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 24th day of June, 2023.

Battle River Law Baldwin, Friedman, Spence Barristers & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3

Solicitors for the Administrator of the Estate of Curtis Edgar Parkinson

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

- For more information on our Special Programs, here’s our Special Programs page link: www.bgcbattlefords.ca/our-programs/special-programs/

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

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

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

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

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

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

Opportunity Changes

FEED & SEED

TOWN OF HAFFORD NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll of the Town of Hafford for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection by contacting the Office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, June 2, 2023, to July 3, 2023.

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her Notice of Appeal, accompanied by the $100.00 appeal fee per roll number with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Mike Ligtermoet, Nor-Sask. Board Services, 642 Agnew Street, Prince Albert, SK S6V 2P1 by July 3, 2023.

Dated at Hafford, Saskatchewan this 24th day of May, 2023.

R. Denise Porter Assessor

Integrity Post Frame Buildings

SINCE 2008

Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More sales@ Integritybuilt.com

1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com

FEED & SEED

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

WE BUY

DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS

PEAS... BARLEY

CANOLA... FLAX

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WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN

1-877-250-5252

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Paynton No. 470 intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No 04-2020 known as the Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT:

The proposed Zoning Bylaw Map amendment will:

• Rezone a parcel of land within the Rural Municipality from A – Agricultural to C1 – Commercial and Light Industrial

AFFECTED LAND:

The affected land is legally described as: Block A Plan 101193217 located in the NW-08-47-21 W3M; and, Block A Plan 101591614 located in the SW-17-47-21 W3M

CERTIFIED SEED

Wheat

AAC Goodwin, Go EArly, PintAil Oats AC JuniPEr, AC MorGAn, AC MustAnG, dErby CdC so1 suPEr oAt Barley

Ab stAndswEll, CErvEzA, CdC AustEnson CdC MAvEriCk, sundrE Peas vEry EArly yEllow ForAGE PEAs, Polish CAnolA, sPrinG tritiCAlE mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609

Upcoming Sales:

June 17th - Alma & Kevin Latus

Farm Sale- Spiritwood

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS & LABOURERS WANTED

For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

2006 Case IH MXM 130 Tractor w/ Loader, Case IH HDX 162 16ft Haybine, Morris 14 Bale Wagon/self loading, Full of farm machinery, 2016 Duralite Stock Trailer, Cattle handling, Shop, Yard.

Terms of payment; Interact Debit, Cash, or Cheque with ID. Boechler-Schira Auctioneering does not charge buyers fee on items sold at our sales

Check our Website and Facebook page for sale details Call Kelly @ 306-386-7110 or Marlene @ 306-883-8610

www.boechlerschiraauction.com

Public Notice

RM of Round Hill No. 467

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the RM of Round Hill No. 467 (RM) intends to consider the adoption of three bylaws under The Planning and Development Act, 2007. The RM will establish a new Official Community Plan, a new Zoning Bylaw and a new fees bylaw.

Intent: The proposed Official Community Plan bylaw will establish municipal land use policies, goals and objectives for the RM. The proposed Zoning Bylaw will implement land use policies, establish zoning districts, prescribe permitted and discretionary uses within each zoning district, establish a development permit process, prescribe a process for appeals and provide a provision for amendments. The proposed fees bylaw will establish fees for municipal services, including planning and development services.

Affected Land: The proposed bylaws will affect all land within the incorporated area of the RM.

Reason: The Official Community Plan will provide the RM with direction on development decisions and municipal goals. The Zoning Bylaw will help direct and manage growth and development within the RM. The fees bylaw will provide a schedule of fees to be charged for services provided by the RM.

REASON:

• To accommodate commercial development within the Rural Municipality.

PUBLIC INSPECTION:

Any person may inspect the bylaw at the municipal office at 205 1st Street East, Village of Paynton between 9:00am – 12:00PM and 1:00 – 4:00pm Monday to Thursday, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available at cost.

PUBLIC HEARING:

Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday June 14th, at 10:00 am at 205 1st Street East in the Village of Paynton to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing.

Issued at the RM of Paynton No. 470 this 25th day of May, 2023. Michelle Buechler, Administrator

Public Inspection: Any person may inspect the proposed bylaws at the RM office during normal office hours. Copies of the bylaws are available at cost.

Public Hearing: Council will hold a public hearing on Friday July 14th, 2023 at 9:00am – 11:00am. The public hearing will be held at the RM of Round Hill No.467 office. Any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaws is welcome to attend or to submit comments prior to the meeting. Council will consider all comments received.

Issued at the RM of Round Hill No.467 June 1st, 2023

Christina Moore Administrator

Community Safety and Crime Prevention GET INVOLVED!

Men have a responsibility to stop male violence against women.

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR POSITION RESORT VILLAGE OF AQUADEO

The Resort Village of Aquadeo is now taking applications for the position of Water Treatment Plant Operator.

This will be a Permanent Part-Time position.

We are looking for a candidate who has:

- “Small Water Systems Certificate” OR “Level 1 Water Treatment Plant Certificate” or be willing to obtain the classes necessary for the position;

- Minimum Grade 10 Education;

- Can be available 7 days a week to perform daily water testing;

- Can be on call for emergency situations;

- Available to do routine water treatment plant backwashing & maintenance as required;

The candidate will report directly to the Head Water Treatment Operator and/or CAO;

Preference is that the candidate resides in or near the Resort Village of Aquadeo and can provide own transportation. This is a contract position and wages will be based on experience and certificate level. Details will be discussed upon hiring. Applications will be received until a suitable candidate is found. Only those who qualify will be contacted for interviews.

We thank everyone who does apply.

Please send resume with cover letter to:

The Resort Village of Aquadeo by email to: aguadeoadmin@gmail.com

Attention: Gina Bernier, CAO

Resort Village of Aquadeo

Phone: (306) 386-2942/306-240-9428

RM of Meeting Lake No. 466 is Accepting Applications for Full-time Public Works Foreman

Potential candidate should possess the following qualifications/skills:

• Public works experience as it relates to municipal operational functions and equipment, including working knowledge of project management and municipal regulations;

• Considerable knowledge of municipal infrastructure, including methods, practices, specifications, and techniques used in conjunction, with operations and maintenance of, roads, drainage, and other facilities;

• Mechanically inclined;

• Knowledge of operating and servicing various equipment such as tractor/mower, grader, semi/trailer, etc.;

• Effective management, team building, facilitation, leadership, and supervisory strengths, with a commitment to continuous improvement;

• Effective interpersonal and communication skills;

• Good organizational and record-keeping skills; able to identify and document the many needs of the municipality;

• Have experience in working with engineers, contractors, and suppliers;

• Valid Class 1A Driver’s License would be an asset.

RM offers a comprehensive benefit package, municipal employee pension plan and competitive wages.

Please submit your resume, including 3 references, job-related courses and certificates along with a drivers abstract to:

RM of Meeting Lake, Box 26, Mayfair, Sask., S0M 0E0

E -mail: rm466@sasktel.net

The position will remain open until a suitable applicant is employed. We thank all applicants in advance; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

R.M. OF REDBERRY NO. 435

Temporary Part-Time Assistant Administrator

The Rural Municipality of Redberry No. 435 is accepting applications for a Temporary Part Time Assistant Administrator to cover a maternity leave position.

Applicants should possess excellent communication, public relations, and time management skills and be able to work under the Administrator’s Supervision. Experience with Munisoft software or previous computer/bookkeeping experience would be an asset. The office is located at Hafford, Saskatchewan. The R.M. offers a competitive wage and provides the SARM benefits package. The salary range is dependent upon experience and qualifications of the successful applicant.

Interested candidates please submit a detailed resume including qualifications, past and present work experience, and three work related references. A current criminal records check should accompany your application or be provided prior before commencement of employment. The position will remain open till filled.

rm435@sasktel.net

Box 160

Hafford, Saskatchewan, S0J 1A0 Phone: 306-549-2333

RM of Round Hill No. 467 Full Time Grader Operator

Qualifications: Must poses a valid driver’s license and have their own transportation. Have knowledge of grader operation and service. Have a working knowledge of road building and maintenance. Have a full working knowledge of grading techniques. Must be capable of working with a minimum or without supervision.

Duties:

- Operate equipment and work in compliance with the Saskatchewan Employment Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.

- Maintain and repair all roads on a priority basis as required by road conditions.

- Blade all roads in a professional and safe manner.

- Service machinery and assist in repairs as the case may be.

- Do work as per the road maintenance schedule or as directed.

- Road maintenance personnel are required to work 10 hour per day during certain seasons.

- Ensure shop and work areas are kept clean and organized at all times.

- Communicate any unsafe conditions or accidents/injuries in a timely manner

- Demonstrate contiguous effort to improve operation and work cooper tively and jointly with the rest of the crew.

- Diagnose / identify defects in heavy duty equipment.

- Clean, lubricate, and perform other minor maintenance work.

- Maintain a working knowledge of changes in technology and operation techniques.

- Perform trip inspections on equipment operated and load, ensuring safety and roadworthiness.

- Other duties as assigned by council and administrator

- Any other skills (carpentry, electrical, welding, etc.) would be considered an asset.

- Looking with someone to take leadership.

The RM of Round Hill No. 467 is willing to pay top wages in accordance with qualifications and experience.

Applications are currently being accepted at the Municipal office in person, or by e-mail to:

rm467@sasktel.net or mailed to:

RM of Round Hill No. 467 Box 9 Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0

Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is hired.

Mayfair and District News

Hafford author offers honest look at motherhood

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

What horrendous winds we endured last Tuesday and on a couple of other days. Darn near blows a person over! Many bedding plants that gardeners have put into the ground without protection were damaged. I see some must have planted early because I’ve noticed potato plants eight inches in height already. An early start on many outdoor projects with exceedingly nice temps.

The high winds haven’t deterred the ball teams from playing, while the spectators in their winter gear are huddled up on the benches. The precipitation that was spotty last week was a blessing. Just taking a deep breath of fresh air after a rainfall, especially early morning, is so good for your lungs. The readers of this newspaper will thoroughly miss Meota’s correspondent Lorna Pearson’s weekly news column. Last week the

Summer Student JOB OPPORTUNITY

JOB DUTIES: This position consists of general labour maintenance duties in Rabbit Lake. School grounds, natural areas and walkways. The typical duties include litter-picking, string trimming, grass mowing, painting, tree and shrub maintenance, flower planting, shoveling soil or other material, weeding, cleaning depots and other general labour duties in the open space and depots. Must report daily to the supervisor.

All candidates must possess the following:

• A valid Saskatchewan Class 5 driver’s license

• Self-starter and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision

• A proactive team member that contributes to a positive work environment

• Exercise initiative and good judgment when completing work assignments

• Proven customer service skills

• Be dependable and reliable

Submit resumé to Administrator by June 8th, 2023

By Mail, Fax, Email, Box 9, Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0 Fax: (306)-824-2150

rm467@sasktel.net

OFFICE ASSISTANT

The R.M. of Paynton No. 470 is currently recruiting for an organized and effective team member to join our Administration staff. This is a permanent position working Monday to Thursday with office hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. As an Office Assistant you will display an aptitude for customer service, have excellent computer skills with considerable knowledge of Excel and Word. You must have above average accounting skills, excellent verbal and written communication abilities, the capability to adapt quickly to new procedures and situations and must be bondable. This is a fast paced ever changing working environment so you MUST be able to multitask, work with minimal supervision and complete your work in a timely manner. You will work cooperatively with council, staff and ratepayers under the direction of the Administrator.

This position comes with employer paid benefits and an employer matched pension plan. Wages will be negotiable depending on education, skills and experience.

Potential starting date is July 4, 2023.

Send resumes with two work references and suggested salary no later than June 12, 2023. Only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

R.M. of Paynton No. 470

Box 10 Paynton, Sask. S0M 2J0

Phone: 306-895-2020

Fax: 306-895-4800

Email: rm470@sasktel.net

title of Meota and District News was “A final submission to the NewsOptimist.” I first met her 16 years ago in Chitek Lake when one afternoon she came to my restaurant for coffee. Lorna must have known my maiden name and informed me her daughter Donna is married to my first cousin Albert Lambert formerly of North Battleford. Do any readers remember Lambert Tire and Battery business on 100th Street north of the Capitol Theatre? It was established by my uncle Alphonse during the 1950s era for a couple of decades before his son, Albert, took it over. My uncle and auntie (Georgina) then moved to Surrey, B.C. where they resided before coming back to the prairies. Lorna Pearson had a news column years ago in the Spiritwood newspaper. Then after her husband passed away she moved to Meota. As a kid, she grew up in the Prince district and has relatives residing in the area.

I spent my childhood on the family farm in that area, so we had lots to chat about. Lorna, I wish you well in your forthcoming journey in your “later” senior years (she’s in her mid-90s), good health and happiness. Living in the Edam seniors’ manor sounds wonderful and you deserve nothing but the best. Just by your mannerism, I know every resident is glad to have you as a golden ray of sunshine among them.

Looking for chemicalfree fresh garden produce? Look no further because Bill’s Market Garden will begin making deliveries twice a week to Jackfish Lake and Murray Lakes and to the Battlefords in the middle of June. Owning this enterprise since 2013, Bill Landrie in the Hatherleigh district is well known for excellent quality produce. Check this business out by Googling Bill’s Market Garden to make inquiries and to order what is available.

Last Thursday, I attended the funeral of a first cousin on my father’s side of the family (Joe Gregoire, who passed away five decades ago).

Yvonne Arsenault of North Battleford was 96. She is the last descendant on the Gregoire side. She and her late husband Bill resided near McMillan School District approximately 12 miles northwest of North Battleford. They raised a family of four sons and six daughters. Most of the family members live

Mayfair Creative Corner’s spring breakfast plant and craft sale is over for another year. Fourteen vendors were selling a large variety of bedding and perennial plants, books, baking and other items. There was a fair size crowd now and again that came through the doors, but sales were down. With the warm spring, many people had already purchased their plants elsewhere.

Joanna Roth, a Hafford farm woman with three young children, has written two children’s books depicting their family life. She writes on the back cover, “Is motherhood what you thought it would be? Would you like to share an honest moment with your child to express how you’re truly feeling in a fun, loving way? Let’s be honest, motherhood is not always sunshine and rainbows, and we as mothers are not perfect and that’s OK!” She is an amazing author.

The brightly coloured pictures are beautifully presented as the storyline continues. Books are available in paperback and hardcover. Her maiden name is Kohut. I laughed and said, “Oh gee, my daughter used to hang around/party with you during high school.” Since Mayfair’s high school had a sparse number of students, teenagers would drive to nearby towns for some action.

My apologies from two weeks ago for the caption with the Polischuk family photo. Vera Horn is on the left-hand side and on the right is Janice Horn. I had put the name Vera two

SASKATCHEWAN’S BEST ONLINE

times.

Farmers in our area are close to finishing their seeding. Some have completed but the fields still have tractors pulling their airseeders, cultivators and other machinery.

Mark your calendars for the Meeting Lake outdoors farmers market which is scheduled for every second Saturday. This Saturday, many cabin owners and

campers will be at the nearby regional park so business should be brisk for the many vendors on board.

Fire bans appear to have been lifted by most rural municipalities, so cabin and lake people can again have open fires. Farmers like me are ready to burn household garbage in steel containers. This has been bagged up for three weeks.

One of the vendors at the craft sale last Saturday, Lauren Liebaert makes interesting crafts.

Avid gardener and vendor Dora Brown of Mayfair with prospective buyers at the craft sale last Saturday. | Photos by Elaine Woloshyn throughout the Battlefords.

Vendor Gail Adamus (formerly of Mayfair) crochets many articles. The large variety of movie characters catches children’s attention, including “adult” kids. These were very reasonably priced.

More Borden news

Continued from Page 12

Inc and Sunshine. With a total of 54 teams combined, they have travelled around the world 10.96 times or over 400,000 kilometres The next walk will start in January of 2024. Congratulations to all the Borden members and the leaders Bev Assman and Heather Penner on this accomplishment.

The Borden Care Home Auxiliary held a spring tea at the care home May 27 with a good turnout. The door prizes went to Julia Bezugly and Leighton Dobson and resident

John Petrun won a bag of goodies. On the auxiliary are Bev Assman, Bev Hrynuik, Irene Hamp and Brenda Roenspies, and they would appreciate more joining them. They have two events during the year and in December decorate the tree and the care home and buy little gifts for the residents’ stockings.

The BCCPC committee held a successful ham and scalloped potato supper May 27 in the Borden Community Centre although there could have been much better atten-

dance. The event included a 50/50 draw won by Delmar Hamm and many silent auction items. The event was a fundraiser for new flooring in the Community Centre. Their next fundraiser is a steak supper June 3 with $25 tickets available from committee or recreation board members.

Borden Parks and Recreation along with the Village of Borden, are holding Diefenbaker Daze June 3 and 4 with all events at Memorial Park. There will be a slopitch, concession booth, beer garden, kids’

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zone and petting zoo on both days. There is a steak supper and cabaret June 3 and a pancake breakfast June 4. There will be a teen zone Sunday. Sunday there will be a community church service at the Borden Care Home at 10:30

a.m Bring lawn chairs as it will be outside, weather permitting.

The Borden Lion’s Chase the Ace draw winners for May 18 were Heather Penner and on May 25 Cody Bradshaw won the weekly cash. The

Ace of Spades has not been drawn so the jackpot continues to grow. Get your tickets locally at the village office, Roadside Inn, Bev Assman at the Farmer’s Market or online at bordenlionsraffle@ gmail.com.

Oldtimers entertaining in Borden May 25 — Doug Sylvester, Ray Seib, Willy Leibel and Gary Wappel. | Photo by Lorraine Olinyk

Maidstone and District News

Playschool group visits Maidstone Museum

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

Our community mourns the passing of Irene (Renee) Johner on May 22 at the age of 99 years. The funeral will be Monday, June 5 at 2 p.m. at Maidstone Legion Hall and will be live-streamed on the McCaw Funeral Service website. Our sincere sympathy is extended to Carol, David, Gary and their families. Renee was a dear soul and a community icon who was loved by so many of us and will be missed.

The Turtleford and District Co-op at Maidstone barbecue May 13 was a busy place, resulting in a $1.328 profit which has been donated to Maidstone

Group Home. Thank you to the co-op for once again showing terrific support for our community.

The Girl Guides bottle drive was also successful. Girls, leaders and other volunteers worked hard collecting and sorting and realized a $2,434.80 profit.

Thank you to Gord Banks for all your help, Hancock Petroleum for the use of their shed, Bob Ormiston for his trailer and everyone who donated. Your support of our annual bottle drive enables us to provide quality programming and loads of fun to Sparks, Embers, Guides and Pathfinders.

Megan and Sara brought the playschool group to Maidstone Museum May 23. Everyone had a great

time dressing up and playing games. By supporting our raffle, you enable us to provide programming for all ages. Tickets are available throughout June with the draw at our Canada Day celebration.

Maidstone Disc Golf lucky draw winners May 24 were Cody Garnham and Jake White. Check out the leaderboard on their Facebook page.

Standard Hill Lakers took the game at Glaslyn Orioles 18 to 5 on May 25. Their next game is May 30 at home versus Mervin Flyers (past my deadline) followed by June 6 at North Battleford Beavers (7:30 p.m.), June 8 at home against Lloydminster Twins (6:30 p.m.) and

then the Standard Hill slopitch tourney June 9 to 11 at Silver Lake. The Lakers gazebo fundraising raffle winners announced. Larry Nogue won the smoker grill, Glen Ross won tickets to Luke Combs concert in Edmonton and Steve Stansfield won Silver Lake golf passes.

The 2023 graduation was a fantastic event enjoyed by the Grade 12 students, families and friends May 26. Congratulations and good luck to all of you as you embark on new adventures. We’ll have a list of the scholarship award recipients for next week.

Steak night on May 27 hosted by Maidstone Legion No.142 and Maidstone Kin Club was a fundraiser

for new playground equipment at the ball diamonds. It was well received with the team cooking up 132 steaks. They are considering doing another steak night in the fall. Hopefully, my memory will serve me better and I won’t miss the next one.

Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H achievement day was attended by a large crowd at Milleton Hall May 28. Members and their guests had a delicious lunch followed by opening and indoor demos. It was a sunny 26 C with a light breeze which made watching the outdoor events an enjoyable afternoon. Judges had a challenging job with the excellent effort of members in 11 projects: archery, ca-

nine, cats, Cloverbuds, coffee club, crafts, light horse, outdoors, sheep, vintage cooking and woodworking. Thank you to Anita Waugh for the opening speech, all the judges and sponsors and everyone who came.

4-H Expo is June 3 to 5 at the Exhibition Grounds in Lloydminster. With archery on Saturday, other multi-projects and record book judging on Sunday and livestock projects running from Saturday to Monday with show and sale Monday, it’s a busy weekend. We look forward to seeing you there. Maidstone 4-H awards night is Friday, June 9 with a potluck supper at 5:30 p.m. followed by award presentations.

How to prepare for the 2023 golf season

Golf season is here!

Here are a few tips to make your transition back to the green as seamless as possible.

1. Strengthen your muscles. Develop a consistent workout routine to help you improve your performance and reduce the risk of injury. Look up golf-specific exercises and stretches to make the most of your time.

2. Practice your short game. Set up an area in your home, like your basement or garage, where you can work on putting and perfecting your golf swing. Your goal should be to practice at least half an hour a week.

3. Invest in a golf club fitting. Using custom-fit equipment for your golf game can significantly improve your experience. A professional can help you find the right clubs for your swing, body type and ability level.

4. Re-grip your golf clubs. Slick or worn grips can cause control and accuracy problems. Therefore, hiring a golf retailer or qualified club fitter to re-grip your worn-out clubs is an excellent idea.

It may also help to watch online videos, attend a golf training seminar or play a few casual rounds at your local golf course. You’ll improve your game and keep up with the latest rules.

5 things to consider when choosing golf shoes

A good pair of golf shoes can go a long way to improving your game and increasing comfort while walking long distances on the course. Here are five things to consider when choosing a new pair.

1. Material. Leather is the most popular material choice because it’s breathable, flexible and stylish. Many leather shoes also come with a waterproof lining. Gore-Tex has many of the same benefits as leather but comes with a higher price tag, which may be worth it if you often play in wet or cold conditions. Polyester shoes are ideal for occasional golfers

looking for value.

2. Style. Golf shoes range in style from Oxfords and sneakers to sandals and boots. The first thing to remember is that many golf courses have dress codes, so not all kinds may be suitable. Additionally, consider the golfing you do. For example, sneaker-style shoes may be great if you’re a casual golfer. If you often golf at business meetings, you may want to choose a more upscale style.

3. Spiked or spikeless. The decision between spiked or spikeless shoes

comes down to climate and landscape. For instance, if you play in wet environments or on hilly courses, the enhanced grip of spiked shoes is hard to beat. Spiked shoes can be heavy but provide excellent overall support. Spikeless, however, are lightweight and can be worn off the course.

4. Laces. Traditional laces are the most popular because you can easily exact the fit of your shoe. However, Velcro fastenings and mechanical fittings are gaining popularity for their ease of use.

5. Size. Golf shoes usually fit tighter than everyday shoes to keep your foot secure and close to the ground. You should have no pain or pressure when walking and have about three to five millimetres of toe space.

Visit your local pro shop for personalized advice and fitting recommendations.