Regional News-Optimist June 22, 2023

Pennydale Junction changes management; closes temporarily

Caught up in Bangladesh murder controversy

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Just over a year after Ashraful and Nicole Alam purchased Pennydale Junction after some on-and-off confusion, statements have been posted on the restaurant’s Facebook page describing a change in management and a temporary closure.

The announcements come after the June 9 firing of the Town of Battleford’s CAO, Ashraful Alam, following a lengthy unauthorized absence outside of the country. The former Battleford and Buffalo Narrows CAO is suspected by Bangladesh police of having killed a woman described as his wife in that country before fleeing to Canada.

The restaurant, caught up in the controversy, issued a statement June 14 stating: “The iconic Pennydale Junction restaurant has been under new management since February 2023.” It was posted by the management team of the long-time Battleford

restaurant. Adnan, who has only been identified by his first name, was named as the manager leading the team at Pennydale Junction, according to the statement,

That statement was followed by a Tuesday, June 20, statement from management that due to a family emergency, the restaurant is temporarily closed.

“This temporary break gives us some time to reorganize ourselves and work on recruiting talented and skilled staff,” said the restaurant online. “We are taking this break as an opportunity to work on newer strategies for our restaurant.”

Adnan was unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts to reach him.

Soon after news broke that Ashraful Alam was suspected of killing Afroza Begum, formerly of Estevan and a Canadian citizen, a question was posted to Pennydale Junction online asking if the Alams are still the owners of the property. The restaurant said it was no longer owned by them.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

“Nope ... [the owner is] a private investor,” the restaurant posted on its Facebook page.

However, Information Services Corporation, Saskatchewan’s land titles and corporate registry, indicates that the parcel of land and the property is still owned by a company where Ashraful and Nicole Alam are the sole directors.

ISC noted in an email to the News-Optimist/ SASKTODAY.ca that “... once ISC has received a land title change request, the turnaround time for a successful application is approximately 2.5 days.”

“Records for successful registrations within the Registry are current. Until a land title change request is submitted and accepted, it is not effective.”

An ISC search also indicated an accounting company with the same address as Nicole Alam in Edmonton, holds 100 per cent of the shares in the Saskatchewan company named as owners of the Pennydale property. Open source information

Continued on Page 2

Nature is Awesome

Sask.’s credit rating AA OK

SASKTODAY.ca

S&P Global Ratings has cited Saskatchewan’s “prudent financial management” in affirming the province’s AA credit rating and stable outlook released this week.

According to a news release issued by the Province of Saskatchewan, the we currently have the highest credit rating from S&P among Canadian provinces, and the second highest credit rating among the provinces when all three major rating agencies — Moody’s, DBRS Morningstar, and S&P —are considered.

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Here is a photo of a blue bird that was spotted along Highway 16 west of the Battlefords. Design all around. | Photo and text by Jim McLane of Battleford

Pennydale Junction changes management; closes temporarily

Continued from Page 1 suggests that Ashraful and Nicole Alam, (Hiemstra) were married on May 26, 2018, and have residences in Edmonton and Battleford.

Their purchase of Pennydale Junction from Tom and Marilyn Tenetuik was first announced in late March of 2022, but in early April it was announced the deal wasn’t going ahead. It was not immediately clear why the sale did not proceed. Then in May of 2022, it was announced that the

sale had been completed. Meanwhile, Ashraful Alam’s whereabouts are unknown. On April 27, the Town of Battleford held a special meeting to appoint an interim CAO and the town is currently searching for someone to fill the position permanently by the fall.

The News-Optimist/ SASKTODAY.ca have been in contact with the Saskatchewan RCMP, who have said they are looking into the matter. Generally speaking,

North Battleford RCMP investigate homicide

SASKTODAY.ca

they said, the RCMP assists other law enforcement agencies with their investigations, including locating wanted individuals, upon request. But other than that they had no information to share.

It’s noteworthy that Canada does not have an extradition treaty with Bangladesh, meaning no formal agreement is in place between the two countries regarding the transfer of individuals for the purpose of facing criminal charges.

Ministry seeking operators for Drumming Hill Addiction Center

SASKTODAY.ca

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to find an operator for addiction treatment services at the Drumming Hill facility in North Battleford.

The successful proponent would provide withdrawal management and inpatient addiction treatment for adults.

The Ministry of Health currently funds 547 pre-

treatment, withdrawal management, intensive outpatient, inpatient treatment and post-treatment spaces across the province operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority and third parties.

The RFP outlines details relating to criteria, processes, timelines and other relevant information and can be found at www. SaskTenders.ca.

Interested proponents will be encouraged to attend an in-person information session and site

tour of the Drumming Hill facility on June 28.

The submission deadline for the RFP is July 26.

The Government of Saskatchewan transitioned the services from Drumming Hill Youth Centre to youth in custody facilities in Prince Albert and Regina as of November last year

As a result, the facility was closed with the intention is to explore repurposing the facility to provide addictions services.

23064DS0

RCMP are investigating the death of 32-year-old Kaylee Crookedneck from Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation last Friday as a homicide.

On June 16, shortly after 11 p.m., North Battleford RCMP responded to a report of an injured person located outside a home on the 1400 block of 114th Street in North Battleford. RCMP officers arrived and provided initial

medical assistance prior to EMS arrival. Crookedneck was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Police say they are releasing Crookedneck’s identity to assist their ongoing investigation. This investigation involves experts and assistance from Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes, North Battleford RCMP Detachment, North Battleford Municipal and Provincial RCMP General Investigation Sections,

Forensic Identification Services and the Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service.

Anyone with information about this investigation is encouraged to contact the Saskatchewan RCMP by calling 310RCMP. If you have information to share, but do not want your identity known, you can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 – you may be eligible for a cash reward.

Sask. man accused of trying to shoot near crowd back in B.C. court

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A 37-year-old North Battleford man accused of allegedly attempting to shoot a loaded Glock handgun outside a busy Surrey convenience store near a crowded Metro Vancouver SkyTrain in British Columbia was back in Surrey court Friday of last week.

Kevin Richard Petit’s matter was adjourned to June 27 to give him time to get legal counsel.

Petit faces charges of having a loaded, prohibited/restricted firearm, possession of a firearm without a license, possession of a prohibited firearm without a license, and possession of a firearm contrary to a court order.

The charges stem from an incident on Feb. 24, 2022, when Metro Vancouver Transit Police say they were called to the Surrey Central SkyTrain Station at 11:45 a.m. They say Petit was standing outside a convenience store, across the street from the transit station, and was about to shoot a Glock handgun when bystanders and the store owner tackled him to the ground.

When transit police officers arrived, Petit had freed himself and was running away. Police chased Petit on foot and arrested him behind a neighbouring business. A loaded Glock 19 handgun was found inside his waistband.

Court documents show that he also goes by the

Bat-wielding man

Kevin Petit was tackled to the ground by bystanders when they saw he had racked a Glock handgun and was about to shoot near a crowd. | Photo courtesy RCMP

name of Kenneth Ratt. He was granted bail last April and it was revoked in February. ljoy@glaciermedia.ca

tried disarming police gets conditional sentence

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A 50-year-old Macklin man who was charged with threatening Alberta RCMP staff was given a conditional sentence Monday to be served in the community.

Jason Tucker pleaded guilty in Unity Circuit Court to charges of trying to take a weapon from a police officer and uttering threats. He was given

a 60-day conditional sentence on one charge and 60 days concurrent on the second charge. This means he will serve his sentence in the community but if he breaches his release conditions he could serve the remainder of his time in jail.

When Tucker’s conditional sentence order is complete he will be placed on 10 months probation. The charges of assault against an officer and possession of a weapon

for a dangerous purpose were withdrawn.

Tucker was arrested in February after he called Provost RCMP and threatened the staff. When Unity RCMP went to his home, an intoxicated Tucker greeted them wielding a baseball bat and threatened to use it against an officer trying to arrest him. Tucker then went back into his house and police got a search warrant to enter and arrest him.

who

Taxpayers group calls out NB for spending per person

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling out the City of North Battleford for having the third highest spending per person compared to other small and medium-sized cities in the province in 2021.

According to its numbers on municipal spending that were released Thursday, North Battleford spent $2,989 per person in 2021. That amounts to expenses of $41,355,367 divided by a population of 13,836.

Of the 14 cities in that list of smaller communities, only Swift Current and Yorkton are higher, at 3,741 and 3,108 per person respectively. As for Saskatchewan’s two largest cities, Saskatoon spent $3,161 per person and Regina spent $2,761.

CTF notes the average Saskatchewan city spent $2,635 per person. Martensville spent the lowest at $1,794 per person.

“City taxpayers need

to ask councillors why they are spending more per person than almost every other city in the province,” said Gage Haubrich, Prairie Director of the CTF, in a statement.

“Other cities have shown it can be done for less, North Battleford needs to get rid of its spending problem.”

The numbers released by CTF are based on financial statements obtained by the CTF through freedom of information requests.

The release of the numbers coincided with an online database going online at the CTF website, where people can view and compare PDFs of municipal financial statements from 2020 and 2021. Haubrich said taxpayers can find out if they are getting value for their dollars.

“Taxpayers pay the bills and we deserve to know how municipal politicians spend our money.”

SASKTODAY.ca contacted the City of North

Battleford for a response.

City Manager Randy Patrick issued this statement:

“The City of North Battleford has unique spending priorities that are vastly different from other municipalities’ priorities. For example, as a City, North Battleford spends more per resident on Community Safety than most communities. As the hub location for the region’s premiere recreational facilities, the City, and by extension, its residents, provides services to numerous communities. These recreational facilities are unparalleled in other similarly-sized communities. Interestingly, the City’s spending in 2017 as compared to 2021 has overall increased from $41,355,367 to $41,431,386 – which equates to about $6.00 per resident. In addition, in 2021, the City incurred an additional cost of approximately $1 million for RCMP expenses or the equivalency of $72 per person.”

Historic Sapp gallery to undertake $50,000 repair

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

North Battleford’s Carnegie Library, otherwise known as the Allen Sapp Gallery, was one of eight significant historic buildings across the province of Saskatchewan that have received a combined $212,000 from the Saskatchewan Heritage Foundation to ensure the longevity of the province’s history.

The gallery, which is one of nine remaining Carnegie libraries that still stand in Western Canada, has been awarded $49,000 from SHF, money the SHF says will be spent to preserve a “distinctive character-defining element of the building.”

“The building is a crown jewel in downtown North Battleford, and its iconic stature is a symbol of our community’s progress, first as a library, and now as Canada’s only public gallery named after an Indigenous artist,” Leah Garven, the gallery’s curator told the News-Optimist/ SASKTODAY.ca

“This is a very competitive grant, and we are very pleased,” she added.

Specifically, the funding will be used to repair and restore the distinctive white cornice that frames the building, Garven says, a significant architectural feature of the building, both from a design point of view and from a functional point of view where

it protects other aspects of the building’s structure, including the 107-year-old brick walls.

“Repairing the white cornice has been in our plans for several years. We regularly monitor the facilities and plan accordingly and schedule such projects well in advance.”

The repairs are currently with the City of North Battleford’s Facility Department, which will then issue a ‘request for proposal’ so contractors wishing to bid may do so. The project is scheduled to occur in 2023 and is not expected to interrupt visitation to the gallery.

“I am hoping that the work is undertaken soon,” Garven added.

Rotary would like to see a splash park in Battleford

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The council of the Town of Battleford heard from Warren Williams, past president and Rotary Club board member, at their June 19 council meeting, as he presented them with a possibility of a new splash park in Battleford.

“We like to support kids ... we want to do something big to start off our second century,” Williams noted as the club celebrates its

103rd year in the Battlefords.

This presentation follows a similar one made in February to the Living Sky School Division, seeking to build a spray park in North Battleford on Connaught School property, followed by a recent move forward with the project in North Battleford, prompted by a unanimous city council decision in May.

According to William’s presentation, the local club would raise $50,000

for a spray park in about three years, with the town contributing $50,000 in money or land for the project.

“We’re proposing to partner with the town ... the town would own the splash park; the town would maintain the splash park, and the town would run the splash park,” Williams said, adding that the club would want some name recognition.

Williams did note that the rotary club would like

to see the park built in an economically disadvantaged area to better serve children and families who may not be able to enjoy the lake and cabin life.

Councillor Shelley Boutin-Gervais noted her appreciation for the presentation, saying, “I want to thank you for your presentation, I always thought a splash park would be a good thing for this community.”

Other councillors mirrored Boutin-

Gervais’ comment, with Councillor Kevin Russell and Councillor Alexis Christensen mentioning tentatively that if the town goes forward with the splash park, they would like to see it in a central location for ease of access.

In comments to the media, Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie said that the council could make a decision at their next council meeting in July but that there are a lot of things to consider,

including timelines and whether council feels this is something they’d like to consider.

“A full commitment would have to go through part of budget deliberations for 2024 ... but conceptually, council can give approval as early as July 17th,” Mayor Leslie said. The town already operates a wading pool and playground called the Tot Lot, which is popular with both Battleford and North Battleford residents.

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A grant will be used to repair and restore the distinctive white cornice that frames the Allen Sapp Gallery. | Photo by Averil Hall /Freelance Photographer

Are we nearing the end of the food industry monopoly in Canada?

By Sylvain Charlebois

While the parliamentary investigation into food inflation leans towards political theatrics, the real intrigue lies in the Competition Bureau’s study on the food industry, announced last fall. The Bureau has faced mounting criticism since last year for its perceived failure to foster competitive practices in the food sector, which has left consumers grappling with high food prices.

Canada’s food retail industry is essentially monopolized by a few key players. Over 85 percent of all food purchases in the country are through Loblaw, Empire/ Sobeys, Metro, Walmart, and Costco. Despite this, the Competition Bureau did nothing to prevent this monopolization.

But rumours in the food industry suggest that things are about to change.

Over the years, the Bureau has green-lit many significant transactions, such as Loblaw’s acquisition of Provigo in 1998, Metro and A&P in 2005, and Empire/ Sobeys and Safeway in 2013. The recent spike in food prices has illuminated the lack of competition in food retail, while also reminding Canadians of the industry’s controversial past.

One such controversy is the bread price-fixing scheme that allegedly occurred between 2001 and 2015 and which has been back in the news in recent months. Despite the investigation being ongoing for eight years, no progress has been reported, making Canadians wonder what the Competition Bureau has been up to for the past eight years. It was in December of 2017 that Loblaws declared itself as the proverbial ”whistleblower” and gave all Canadians a $25 gift card to spend in their stores. Since then we have heard nothing about the investigation; no accusations, no fines and nobody sent to prison.

All we know is that by disclosing the identities of its purported conspirators and collaborating with the Competition Bureau’s inquiry, Loblaw, and Weston Bakeries, owned by Loblaw at the time and since sold, obtained protection from legal action. In essence, ills at the grocery store prompted Canadians to feel unprotected and vulnerable.

Rumours now suggest that the Competition Bureau is poised to make substantial breakthroughs. Nothing confirmed of course, but things have been weird. The Bureau has committed to making its study on the food industry public by the end of this month.

This development has left many industry experts on edge, prompting many to play nice or stay quiet.

We know now that Galen Weston who was himself at the centre of the bread price-fixing scandal announced he will leave his post as President in less than a year. Since he announced his replacement, he completely disappeared from airwaves and TV commercials for the

company. His voice can be heard in the background of some commercials, but that’s the extent of it.

Michael McCain is another industry leader who has completely disappeared. The President and CEO of Maple Leaf Foods also announced he was leaving his position next year. He too was embroiled in the bread price-fixing scandal as the former owner of Canada Bread, which was sold in 2014, a year before the bread investigation started. Interesting coincidence.

Court documents from 2021 unveiled those emails between high-ranking industry executives, including some at Maple Leaf Foods, suggest an intention to synchronize meat prices, resembling the alleged coordination of bread prices. That right, meat. Because of the pandemic, this story barely made headlines, but the food industry is fully aware that the Bureau has evidence that something was up.

Eric Laflèche, the President and CEO of Métro, gave a rare interview in Montreal recently and openly endorsed the code of conduct for the first time. It surprised many. The code of conduct promises to bring more discipline and competition to the marketplace, and Metro has never been warm to the idea, that is until now. Many leaders like Laflèche are now recognising that things can improve, and some solutions ought to be considered. Again, an unexpected predicament from another leader.

One can only guess that the next few months will be interesting. With a government desperate to show Canadians how they are helping families with inflation, a more relevant Bureau may be what Ottawa needs right now. And that is why the industry is very nervous these

days.

Letter Stop telling us what to do

Dear Editor

Re: First Nations people deserve right to fee simple land ownership, News-Optimist, June 15, 2023.

The real toxic, undermining and dangerous legacy of colonialism are those who continue to tell First Nation’s people what is best for them.

We were told Treaties were best for us. We were told Residential School was best for us. We were told Day School was best for us.

We are really tired of this type of bullying, and would appreciate it if people ceased telling us “what is best” for our sovereignty and economic development. Commentary like this undermines inclusion efforts. It’s June ... let’s celebrate together instead of undermining First Nations’ governmental structures and conditions.

Edouard Trippe de Roche

Member, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation

Editorial Jayne Foster Editor SASKTODAY.ca

Miguel Fenrich Reporter

Advertising Sales

Candace Mack-Horton Sales Manager Composition

Claude Paradis Prepress Manager

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agrifood analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University. © Troy Media

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.

WoodPile The Memorial Overpass

By R.H. Wood North Batteford

The frightful accident in Manitoba at the junction of Highways 1 and 5 brings back many memories. It was at that very junction when we first came to Canada that we would turn north heading for Dauphin, a town we got to know quite well on our way to the more distant mining city of Thompson.

From Dauphin we travelled north to The Pas, a community I really enjoyed visiting and working in. Some forty miles further we turned east, at which point the road deteriorated as we travelled 200 miles in virtual wilderness. One could not be too careful as the surface wrecked your vehicle, destroyed your suspension and tires and put holes in your gas tank. Evidence of corduroy road construction could still be seen in places. You always stopped if someone needed assistance and took evasive action as traffic approached, especially if it was the bus. In those days we were young and adventurous, and survived without cell phones and seatbelts.

The news headlines have been changing so rapidly recently it has

been difficult to keep up and make sensible comments. Marco Mendicino is struggling to field calls for his resignation. Meghan and Harry are losing lucrative contracts. Mr. Trudeau is adding to his mileage total and polishing his international standing with our tax money. The rapporteur has not been replaced. Inflation is not yet controlled, especially in grocery stores. No hydrogen is being made in Newfoundland and the Bay du Nord oil field off Newfoundland is on hold. The V.W. and Stellantis battery deals will cost more if they ever happen at all. Forest fires continue to rage. We are still hearing pathetic puerile threadbare excuses from those in power that the failure of their

departments is due to nameless, job secure civil servants keeping them in the dark by withholding important information. Far worse, in my opinion, our M.P.s have surreptitiously agreed to having a virtual parliament in future.

M.P.s won’t have to gather in Ottawa if they don’t want to. Why, one might reasonably ask, did we spend nearly $1 billion on the temporary west block and continue to extravagance some $5 billion on the centre block buildings? If M.P.s can’t be bothered meeting in Ottawa to represent us, in my opinion, they should resign and stay at home.

I have no recent personal knowledge of the Hwy. 1/5 intersection. Is there a speed restriction on the main highway or are there liability ameliorating signs indicating an important intersection ahead? Aerial views of the intersection show that it is well-developed and that it is a major junction. Unfortunately, no matter how vainglorious the on and off ramps are, the residual crucial problem is that centrally slow and fast traffic cross which means the risk of human error. This was clearly obvious in the Humboldt disaster. While the apportioning of blame and liability will

This photo taken from the top of the Peace Tower shows the work to renovate the west block, which is now used as a temporary House of Commons, costing nearly $1 billion. | Photo by R.H. Wood

Desperate refurbishment required — The interior of the House of Commons in 2016. | Photo by R.H. Wood proceed and take time, my suggestion is that immediate plans are set afoot to replace the current

intersection with a proper overpass to be known as the Dauphin Memorial Overpass dedicated to

those injured and killed in yet another highway tragedy which might otherwise not have happened.

Kurtis Kopp and the spirit of music

Kurtis Kopp and I met at Tim Hortons in Battleford on Friday, March 3, 2023.

When Kurtis walked through the sliding doors, I wasn’t quite prepared for what I saw – long, shoulder-length hair, beard and a black ball cap on backwards. Déjà vu the late 1960s. Personality to match, I was sure. Within a couple of minutes, I realized I was dead wrong. Kurtis and I engaged in a spirited conversation about everything under the sun it seemed, and music too. In a short time, I came to respect Kurtis as a fine human being, and as a musician, and for his near encyclopedic knowledge of popular music. I soon found Kurtis’s mode of dress was part of his persona and, by extension, part of his music.

At five foot 10 and 186 pounds, Kurtis is a handsome man.

Kurtis was born in 1984 to Kellion and Lillian Kopp at Battlefords Union Hospital in North Battleford. He took his elementary schooling at St. Vital (K – Grade 6) and Holy Family School (Grade 7), and his high school at John Paul II Collegiate. Kurtis was not big into sports, but now he consistently does a few sets of cardio to stay in shape as a drummer. He works with good musicians. The principle of iron sharpens

Hiebert on Heritage

Richard W. Hiebert, Ph.D President, Battlefords Heritage Society

iron works here. My modus operandi is to write an essay about Kurtis and his musical journey and to pen it as both an autobiography and biography. Kurtis will write his story in the first person; I will comment in the third person. Kurtis made a few opening comments.

“Rick, that was sure a cool coffee session. I sure enjoyed our meeting. It was my pleasure hearing your enthusiasm during the telling of your stories and learning about your past. I enjoy insights like that. And, also, thank you for writing a piece on me. I appreciate your time. I have great respect for your passion for academics and your achievements.”

Kurtis gives an account of the three bands he plays with:

“The first band is the Dixon County Rebels. The band members include Colin Sperling (guitar, vocals), Kurtis Kopp (drums, vocals) and Kevin Adair (bass, vocals).

“We, Kevin and Kurtis,

have been working together as a rhythm section closing in on two decades now. We’ve worked on many projects with, or without, one another. This led to a pretty awesome network of musicians over the years.

“Kevin had worked with this amazing touring musician named Colin Sperling and knew he had to introduce the guitar player to me. So, we finally met, set up some equipment in a hot garage and it was magic at first note for we three rebels that day – in rural Dixon County. It is all for the love of this kind of chemistry that compels this band to carry on. The Rock Outlaw Country Band confesses that through the years they have showcased the band as something we can be proud of, and good enough to share with the world. We perform great songs, locking them into rhythms and singing harmonies cut from the same cloth. That’s what we do.

“I also play in a great band called Gypsy

Moonbird. The band members include Kriss Atcheynum (lead vocal), Audi Atcheynum (lead guitar, rhythm guitar, vocals), Micheal Martin (bass guitar, vocals), Kurtis Kopp (drums, vocals) and Reg Whitecalf (lead guitar, rhythm guitar, vocals).

“Gypsy Moonbird was put together in the spring of 2018. It is comprised of six passionate musicians who have a comprehensive experience with a sound that is reminiscent of a 1960s psychedelic dream and a fast-driving 1970s nostalgic classic rock within the context of classic country and the blues. All of this is wrapped in a modern context – a familiar colour painted with a new brush. Our band intends to keep the spirit of rock n’ roll alive with our own (original) material. Importantly, we are influenced by many bands and artists that were part of that great rock area.

“I also play with another great band that boasts the greatest singer in the business – Darryl Anderson. Band members include Darryl Anderson (featured vocalist), Cam Sewatski (lead guitar, vocals), Kevin Adair (bass, vocals) and Kurtis Kopp (drums, vocals). Darryl now performs live on the popular apps Tiktok and Facebook. His authentic and amazing talent and his down-to-earth vocals have endeared him to legions of fans. His performances are genuine and unique.

“Darryl’s singing makes him stand out in a crowd. Right now, he’s number one on the Indigenous Music Charts. He was the winner of the Ponoka Stampede singing competition. He’s also been on Telemiracle three times and has raised over $30,000 for the Telemiracle Foundation. And recently he’s hit number one on the Indigenous Count Down with his new song Shots at the Bar. My friend continues to work hard to expand his career. Don’t be surprised when one day

sees him singing with the likes of Alabama.”

Kurtis noted that he also stepped in with a smartly packaged talented show called Louisiana Hayride. He was a hit. It is an exciting time –recreating famous songs of yesteryear. In addition to his role as a percussionist, he doubled as a bass player and tech man. Louisiana played many new and old performing arts theatres all over Western Canada catering to thousands of music lovers.

Kurtis is Polish and German. Kurtis is not overly religious but he has a deep respect for spiritism and meditation. He believes they have a positive effect on his life. He’s also into herbalism (he draws from Indigenous people). He loves gardening (in particular planting). Every spring he plants a good-sized potato patch. He doesn’t have much time for TV watching. He would sooner be outside working. Farming has had a big influence on his life.

Kurtis is the warehouse manager of the Battlefords Food Bank. He rose quickly through the ranks since he’s only volunteered for a year. Part of his duties includes making the rounds with a truck to pick up produce and nonperishable foods. And, he’s the resident handyman.

Kurtis is also an artist. He was nominated as the best local celebrity with the best local commercial art display.

Back to music, Kurtis is the drummer and singer with Dixie County Rebels. Colin Sperling (age 60) is lead and rhythm guitar player. If you want to sing harmony, you need patience to learn it. The pressure of an audition also helps.

As a side point, lead singer Darrel Anderson was nominated for a Juno and he won a CMA award. On a personal note, playing three nights a week is too hard on the body and mind. In 1997, Don Tatchell stepped in for

part of the summer to work with Kurtis. Kurtis says it was truly an honour to write and record the North Battleford Centennial song. He was thankful for Tammy Buziak taking the lead on this project.

Logistics of playing for a dance

First, everyone has to meet at a designated location and decide on the vehicles. The drums and instruments have to be loaded as well as all sundry items, like a piece of carpet for the drums. This is important.

Kurtis got his first drum set in 1992 – a blue Pearl set. He purchased a Tama Slingerland drum set at age 13 (1996). Instruments must be carried in and set up. Players decide on the best positions on stage. The drummer gets first pick. The drums are the most difficult to set up. Instruments must be tuned. One band member has the honour. PA checked. Monitors checked. Mikes checked. A bit of a discussion here – some would like the mikes strategically positioned; some disagree. Instruments set for volume. All cords taped down. Water bottles in place. First song dry run, Proud Mary. The band is pumped and ready to rock.

I will finish this essay with a few comments from Dennis Cann who knows Kurtis well.

“Kurtis is one of the best drummers I know. He always plays to the song, what the song requires.

Kurtis is a consummate musician who plays several instruments (drums are his main instrument) and sings. His talent is understandable given the musical family he comes from. He’s a real professional. And, he has endeared himself to many musicians because he is ready to help anyone who needs it. Not only is Kurtis a great musician, but he is also an all-around great guy. I’m proud to call him a good friend.”

Dennis R. Cann K.C.

Kurtis Kopp on drums, circa 2022, |

Photo submitted by Richard Hiebert

Kurtis Kopp is the drummer and singer with Dixie County Rebels. | Photo submitted by Richard Hiebert

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Action Now celebrates birthdays

Submitted

Twenty-eight members enjoyed a potluck luncheon at Action Now senior centre on Wednesday, June 14 to celebrate and honour four members who were celebrating birthdays. Celebrants were Sadie Green, Dale Cain, Lucille Shutra and Gwen Cave. Everyone enjoyed the meal and an afternoon playing Kaiser and cribbage.

A gel plate printing workshop was one of the attractions at the Mini Restore and Retreat event at Ruddell June 3. Many other creative items were also on display. | Photos submitted

Art Notes

Time to restore and reflect at mini-retreat

By Holly Hildebrand Battlefords Art Club

June 3, many Art Club members took part in a celebration of artists and art-making at a mini-artist retreat held at the Ruddell Community Hall. It was a wonderful opportunity for artists and craftspersons of every genre to reconnect and share the joy of creating.

The day included opportunities to visit the blacksmithing studio of Geordie Smith and see him working on his forge, wander the village and its beautiful walking path and old sculpture garden, visit the river view and paint en plein air or sit and spin yarn or stories in the shade. Birgit Lessing offered a well-received short workshop on gel plate printing that had participants exploring new techniques.

The Mini Restore and Retreat is part of an annual retreat tradition that began more than 30 years ago by dedicated volunteers in North Battleford. Sharing a collective love of all things creative is something we hope to continue to celebrate for many years to come.

Activities for seniors 55 and over are held at the centre on a regular basis which includes card games Tuesday through Friday afternoons. Canasta is played on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with kaiser on Wednesdays and cribbage on Fridays. All games begin at 1:30 p.m. except for a kaiser tournament which starts at 7:30 every Friday evening. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The kaiser tournament is open to the public. Admission is $5. Cash

Action Now birthday celebrants Sadie Green, Dale Cain, Lucille Shutra and Gwen Cave. | Photo submitted

prizes are awarded and coffee and lunch follows. Come and enjoy. Lots of fun!

Recently a rummage sale was held in support of the immigrants coming over from Ukraine. Donations were accepted from members and others who had things to sell. Thanks so much for all the donations and help to make this

such a success. Approximately $1,500 was raised.

Summer is the time for picnics so we will be holding an afternoon of cards and bingo followed by a picnic supper on Wednesday, July 12. Canasta, crib and kaiser will be played at 1:30, followed by bingo and ending with the supper starting about 4:30 p.m. Guests are welcome.

If you are a senior 55 or over and would like to know more about our organization and how you can participate, you are welcome to join us for an afternoon at 1501-101st Street or call one of the following members: Margaret Kemp 306-445-5646; Judy Tomanek 306-937-7455; Stella Ewanchuk 306-4456721

Summer Sizzler event to showcase over a dozen Sask. artists

Experience local talent at show and sale

Submitted

Battlefords Art Club

The Battlefords Art Club is set to hold its first art show and sale since COVID; June 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 8 pm and June 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 pm in the Chapel Gallery, 891 99th St., North Battleford. The event is free and open to the public.

“We want to showcase the incredible talent of the Battlefords Art Club. No better way than to put our membership front and centre, displaying the art that makes them each so unique,” club president Linda Hauk proclaimed.

The Summer Sizzler Art Show and Sale will feature more than a dozen Battlefords and area artists. Their art has been created using a variety of styles

Battlefords Art Club members create using a variety of styles and mediums including alcohol ink, acrylics, jewelry, cards, resin and more. | Photo submitted

and mediums including alcohol ink, acrylics, jewelry, cards, resin and more.

“This sizzler is our club’s highlight of the year,” Hauk added.

“Enjoy meeting the artists, seeing their creations, and hopefully you’ll take home a stunning piece of

art. We’d also be delighted if you just come out and have a look at what we do.”

The Battlefords Art Club meets in the Don Ross Centre craft room Tuesdays; annual membership is $30. Membership includes your name on the communication list

for upcoming art classes and artist discounts from a number of businesses. The club’s activities and artwork are regularly featured in the Art Notes section of the Battlefords Regional News-Optimist, and on the club’s Instagram account: @art_of_the_battlefords.

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

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

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

Local Athletes Participate

The SOLE-stice Classic was held in Saskatoon on Sunday, June 17 and seven athletes qualified from the North Battleford Zone at the end of May for the finals. Pictured left to right, Julie Wharington (regional meet director), Kali Kauth, Liam Wahobin, Rowan Palmer, Hunter Wahobin, Eli Pawliw, Karen Wharington (regional meet director). Missing Braegen Miller and Aiden Klippenstein. The SOLE-stice Classic is a series of track and field meets designed to replace the Hershey Meets. These meets are grassroots meets for young athletes to get involved in running, jumping and throwing competitions. This program is being sponsored by Aboriginal Track & Field of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Athletics. | Photo submitted

Kennedy Schmidt sticking with North Stars

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Kennedy Schmidt, the North Stars marketing and office manager, will be staying with the team until the end of the 2025-26 season. Schmidt started with the team as the game day coordinator at the start of the 2021-2022 season, then became the marketing and office manager at the end of that season.

“I am excited to continue with the amazing staff we have as well as our board members and group of volunteers and billets that we have,” Schmidt told the News-Optimist.

As the marketing and office manager, Schmidt works closely with sponsors in the community, as well as running game days and planning events and fundraisers. Most recently, she’s been preparing for their 50th anniversary weekend which includes an alumni golf tournament on June 23 and a free afternoon for children on June 24 followed by a supper and social

“We are really lucky to have such a great community behind this hockey team to celebrate our accomplishments and rally behind us to keep us moving forward,” Schmidt said.

“I am looking forward to continuing all the great relationships I have built with staff, board members, volunteers our players and

Kennedy Schmidt, the North Stars marketing and office manager, started with the team as the game day coordinator at the start of the 2021-2022 season.

| Photo by Brayden Klimosko

the community as a whole and to what the future holds for the Battlefords North Stars.”

Ranielson Acaya

Princess Acosta

Charlotte Adamcryck

Jasmine Adams

Jaicey Albert

Emily Allison

Rebecca Allison

Celine Jun Caridel Almogela

Mathews Antony

Sheldon Aubichon

Micah Shey Baniega

Samuel Beatch

Dawson Belyk

Shemaiah Bongosia

Summer Bretzer-Keller

Kaylin Bruno

Victoria Chernoff

Thomas Cain

Tiana Calder

Roger Checkosis

Kayla Chorney

Kayli Cooper

Mia Cordarev

Reigne Timhoety Cortez

Ron Dalida

Archelaus Deguino

Beatriz Dorupa

Damian Dressyman-Lerat

Billi-Dean Foulston

Makayla Frank

Joshua Fransoo

Nicholas Fransoo

Caden Fullerton

Grace Gentes

Makenzie Gidych

Keanu Simeon Gongora

Monika Hardi

Kalan Jelasco

Brooklyn Jenner

Napew Johnson

Alexus Johnstone

Lucas Kahl

Igor Karpov

Cici Killian

Kaitlyn Kindratsky

Rodney Klippenstein

Coralee Knowles

Emina Kolosnjaji

Tiffany Kuhmayer

Ty Kuntz

Sandy May Legaspi

Keira Lewis-Fauth

Dominic Loeppky

Allan Luna Serrano

Jasmine Macalino

Leslie Chate Macawili

Kenneth Maga

JM Mislang

Kenisha Mitsuing

Aaliyah Moosomin

Tiniesha Moosomin

Garson Nolin

Sondre Osecap

Jonril Paradero

Naomi Parado

Leo Park

Tara Parker

Katelyn Payne

Max Peyachew

Libbey Pooyak

Jelena Popovic

Joshua Pyle

Danijel Ramac

Alyssa Rowley

Monika Sajtos

Ella Jovel Sanez

Michaela Santiago

Kayla Schulkowsky

Eric Senger

Brayden Seth

Cedric Sion

Ryley Slater

Amy Solano Amador

Karl Brian Sombilla

Tannis Swiftwolfe

Alyssa Keisha Thong

Mary Jasmine Topacio

Clinton Van Langen

Adam Van Stone

Yevgen Vorobyov

Ava Washkowsky

Ameris Wasmuth

Joelle Weum

Mikayla Wisner

Electra Zoller

Friendship and graduation celebrated

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

The Borden Friendship Club invited club members from Langham, Maymont and Radisson on June 8 and there were 123 in attendance to enjoy a cold plate supper. President Ed Neufeld welcomed everyone and gave the blessing. The hall and tables were beautifully decorated with the theme “Enjoy my garden”. Entertainers Can Am Country sang and played a few songs before supper then a great many more after the great meal. The 50/50 draw of $250 was won by Jean Brooke of Borden and 19 potted plants went home with guest from out of town. Each town thanked Borden for a great meal and Ed thanked the lunch committee for the meal, decorators Brenda Tumbach and Sharon Assman, and for all those who helped in any way for a delightful evening.

Savannah Sutherland has been doing very well in her track and field endeavors in the United States and her latest achievement was placing first in the 400M hurdles at the University of Texas in Austin and setting a record time making her eligible for the Olympics. Since March of 2023, 19-year-old Savannah has

placed first five times and second once in 400M hurdles, and in 400M dash has had two firsts and a second, competing in Texas, New Mexico, Florida and South Carolina. She was on Global news last week being interviewed and showing her racing.

The Borden Friendship Club members were invited to Radisson for June 14 and more than 25 attended, enjoying a supper of chicken and pork roast with many salads and layered desserts. The event was held outside the Goodrich Centre with a stage, pagoda and tent to sit and enjoy the evening. Gerald Wiebe entertained with some gospel songs before supper and president Barb Leschyshyn welcomed everyone and thanked all her committee members for their contributions, then Gerald gave the blessing and supper began. Gerald supplied background music to eat by. After the meal, Neil Stubbs took the stage and entertained with a number of songs, playing guitar, sax, mandolin and accordion with recorded keyboard background and he sang for many of the songs such as Man in Black, Always on My Mind, It Had to Be You. Gerald Wiebe then played guitar and sang a number of songs followed by Neil

showing his versatility on his different instruments. The 50/50 of $161 was won by Barb Clancy of Langham and 10 potted plants and two windchimes were given out to guests as door prizes. Each club thanked Radisson for a great evening.

For Borden School grad 2023 principal Trevor Gerwing was M.C. and introduced each graduate as they entered the school gym for the exercises on June 9. The gym was nicely decorated with blue, silver and black balloons in the nets and on stage the backdrop was in black with silver stars, moons and mini lights and balloons along the top, mini lights along the bottom with 2023 in large letters and the south wall was a photo wall along with the theme in silver letters “There’s No Telling How Many Miles You Will Have to Run While Chasing a Dream”. The north wall had many large silver stars and quarter moons decorating the walls.

Each grad came through the balloon/lights archway down the aisle lit with vases of branches and mini lights while Mr. Gerwing spoke of their early years, through school and what they plan for the future:

Noah Braun plans to take computer science at

Polytech;

Jack Donegan came from Asquith and will take computer science at the University of Saskatchewan;

Owen Dyck will play AA hockey and then go to trade school;

Jordan Finch came to Borden in Grade 12 and plans to be a mechanic;

Bill Hosegood will play baseball in Michigan on a scholarship and eventually wants to be a lawyer;

Raylene Rothenburger came from Maymont to Borden in the last few years and plans to take psychology at the University of Saskatchewan; Sydney Schmidt plans to work then be a vet tech; and Katelyn Worona plans to go to Polytech and become a paramedic.

Responsibility for the recycling of household packaging and paper is changing in Saskatchewan

Responsibility for the recycling of household packaging and paper is changing in Saskatchewan

Responsibility for the recycling of household packaging and paper is changing in Saskatchewan

Noah, Owen, Bill, Sydney and Katelyn took all of their schooling at Borden and were all involved in sports.

2023, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment released the updated Household and Paper Stewardship Program Regulations, 2023, which call for a transi�on to a full Producer Responsibility (EPR) model.

On March 31, 2023, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment released the updated Household Packaging and Paper Stewardship Program Regulations, 2023, which call for a transi�on to a full

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model.

On March 31, 2023, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment released the updated Household Packaging and Paper Stewardship Program Regulations, 2023, which call for a transition to a full Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model.

packaging and paper must now assume opera �onal and financial responsibility for recycling these products in Saskatchewan. A Program Plan to meet this new EPR obliga �on submi�ed to the Ministry of Environment by September 27, 2023.

Producers of packaging and paper must now assume opera �onal and financial responsibility for collec�ng and recycling these products in Saskatchewan. A Program Plan to meet this new EPR obliga �on must be submi�ed to the Ministry of Environment by September 27, 2023.

Producers of packaging and paper must now assume operational and financial responsibility for collecting and recycling these products in Saskatchewan. A Program Plan to meet this new EPR obligation must be submitted to the Ministry of Environment by September 27, 2023.

The valedictorian address was given by Bill Hosegood who thanked the parents, teachers, fellow grads and said that life is short and it is OK to break the rules occasionally — “The future is ours to hold in the palm of our hands.”

�-Material Stewardship Western (MMSW), a non-profit organiza�on established to support obligated meet their requirements under the recycling regula �on, has prepared a dra� Household Paper Stewardship Program Plan. It describes the objec �ves, commitments and number phases from the current shared responsibility model to one that is en �rely managed and producers.

Mul�-Material Stewardship Western (MMSW), a non-profit organiza�on established to support obligated businesses meet their requirements under the recycling regula �on, has prepared a dra� Household Packaging and Paper Stewardship Program Plan. It describes the objec �ves, commitments and number of transi�on phases from the current shared responsibility model to one that is en �rely managed and operated by producers.

Multi-Material Stewardship Western (MMSW), a non-profit organization established to support obligated businesses meet their requirements under the recycling regulation, has prepared a draft Household Packaging and Paper Stewardship Program Plan. It describes the objectives, commitments and number of transition phases from the current shared responsibility model to one that is entirely managed and operated by producers.

working together with Circular Materials, the national not-for-profit producer responsibility (PRO), to provide Saskatchewan residents and producers with the benefits of a nationally approach to recycling. Consultation is taking place between June 13 and August 13, 2023. Invirtual consultation sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the draft Program questions and provide feedback. Sessions are scheduled until Monday, July 10. Feedback can submitted in writing until August 13, 2023 via email to info@multimaterialsw.ca.

MMSW is working together with Circular Materials, the national not-for-profit producer responsibility organization (PRO), to provide Saskatchewan residents and producers with the benefits of a nationally integrated approach to recycling. Consultation is taking place between June 13 and August 13, 2023. Inperson and virtual consultation sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the draft Program Plan, ask questions and provide feedback. Sessions are scheduled until Monday, July 10. Feedback can also be submitted in writing until August 13, 2023 via email to info@multimaterialsw.ca

The scrolls were presented to each grad by Mr. Gerwing then there were thank you speeches:

decorating, lunch and prep work and reply was a round of applause for the Grade 10’s (no Grade 11’s).

individuals and organizations are encouraged to register for a virtual Program Plan session by visiting our website: mmsk.ca/consultation

Guest speaker was Chris Anderson , a former graduate of Borden and now a teacher, who spoke of the flood of 10 years ago when students all helped. Borden gave him the foundation to pursue his dream and he wished all the grads to go out and realize their dreams and to have a great future.

Katelyn Worona to Parents, reply by Kimberly Worona; to Staff by Jack Donegan and reply by MacKenzie Martel; to Coaches by Sydney Schmidt and reply by Nicole Kaufmann; Owen Dyck to the bus drivers, Carl Kennedy replied; and Raylene Rothenburger to the Grade 10’s for all the

Each grad then presented roses to members of the family, there was a PowerPoint presentation set to music depicting each grad from babyhood, early years, through school, and up to graduation. The grads then left the stage for the processional, to later gather in the gym for a dance.

Interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to register for a virtual Program Plan consultation session by visiting our website: mmsk.ca/consultation

MMSW is working together with Circular Materials, the national not-forprofit producer responsibility organization (PRO), to provide Saskatchewan residents and producers with the benefits of a nationally integrated approach to recycling. Consultation is taking place between June 13 and August 13, 2023. In-person and virtual consultation sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the draft Program Plan, ask questions and provide feedback. Sessions begin on Tuesday, June 27. The final session is Monday, July 10. Feedback can also be submitted in writing until August 13, 2023 via email to info@multimaterialsw.ca

Interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to register for one or more in-person or virtual Program Plan consultation sessions by visiting our website: mmsk.ca/consultation.

2023’s grad photo taken on the Historic Borden Bridge: Principal Trevor Gerwing, Noah Braun, Bill Hosegood, Sydney Schmidt, Raylene Rothenburger, Owen Dyck, Jack Donegan, Katelyn Worona, Jordan Finch. | Eye Spy Photography by Tara (Tara Burletoff)

Can Am Country entertaining June 8 at Borden Friendship Club. | Photo by Lorraine Olinyk

Neil Stubbs singing and playing saxophone at Radisson June 14. | Photo by Lorraine Olinyk

Gerald Wiebe entertaining at Radisson June 14. |

Photo by Lorraine Olinyk

Meota evening out turns out to be fabulous!

By Trudy Janssens

Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail had a wonderful turnout for their fundraiser. The event was advertised as An Evening Out and all experienced A Fabulous Evening Out!

Gil and Lori Risling, members of Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail and members of Louisiana Hayride, entertained alongside key musicians who put together music that appealed to a broad range of music lovers. The audience spontaneously joined in clapping and bouncing in their seats. There were even a few who took to the dance floor.

The turnout was great and since the weather was perfect we were all very comfortable in the Meota Community Hall.

There was a 50/50 draw that had a guaranteed $500 payout by Jerry Hallgrimson from Royal LaPage Varsity. Jerry and his wife Heather are very involved members of Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail. The 50/50 did raise over a thousand dollars and the winner graciously donated her prize money back. Her words were, “Buy a window with it!”

More than 200 tickets were pre-sold, with a dozen more at the door. With concession sales, bar tickets sold and the 50/50,

the bottom line will go a long way toward necessary maintenance for the Meota sailing facility.

Caroline and Dirk VanEe did most of the organizing and heavy lifting, while volunteers, who are all members of Meota Paddle and Sail, stepped up to pull together to ensure that a good time would be had by all.

We are very grateful to local businesses and volunteers who sold tickets and promoted the event.

We are particularly grateful to Mary Shury for printing brochures for Meota Lakefront Paddle

and Sail. Mary has been stepping up regularly to help us out and we are very grateful.

Our next big challenge is sailing lessons the first week of July. We still have room for a few more people who want to learn to sail. In order to register you have to go to the Sask Sailing website and look for classes that are being offered in Meota from July 3 to 6, 2023.

Our board is very grateful for all the support this community has given us. We hope you will consider joining us as members. It’s never been easier to join

with our online registration and we’re excited at what we can offer our members. With community support we are able to all enjoy a wonderful lakefront facility here in Meota. We would welcome your involvement.

On a more disconcerting note, as you can see from the photo, there is someone out there who was so anxious to get into the Meota United Anglican Church that they couldn’t wait for us to open the door. The doors and lock set are recent upgrades to the church and the damage is significant. It’s

apparent the intruder went through all the drawers and cupboards, but it’s not obvious what they made off with. Our message

Sunday morning included a plea that we forgive those who trespass against us. I guess that starts very close to home.

The Louisiana Hayride’s Gil and Lori Risling, members of Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail, entertained alongside key musicians at a fundraiser for the club. |

Photo by Trudy Janssens

Someone broke into the Meota United Anglican Church, damaging the relatively new locks. | Photo by Trudy Janssens

Our Biggest Father’s Day Photo Challenge! Winner is

Tyler Michnik

To all of the Fathers and kids of all ages that submitted pictures….

Mayfair News

Father’s Day rain welcomed

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

The rain on Father’s Day was a welcome sight for everyone except the fortunate people camping. In my yard near Whitkow the rain gauge showed 9/10ths of an inch. The amount of precipitation varied throughout the area, but this is the most we’ve received so far this spring in one rain. Hopefully, northern Saskatchewan also got an abundance to help ease the forest fire situation.

Since vacationers and retired people are out and about enjoying the many parks etc. during the spring and summer months, here is a schedule of church services in the neighbouring villages and towns. I’ve done research on the times, religions and locations. All are on Sunday mornings and the ones except the ones where I’ve mentioned the correct times.

Spiritwood: Catholic - 9 a.m.; Lakeland Community Church – 11 a.m.; Partners In Faith (Lutheran / United / Christchurch Anglican) – 9 a.m.; Cowboy Church every Wednesday 7 p.m.

Glenbush: Hoffnungsfelder Mennonite – 10 a.m.; Mennonite Brethren – 10 a.m.

Now

Our Father’s Day Winner of a TRAEGER BBQ

Glaslyn: United /Anglican - the time is on the sign or call Rev. Kim Kim or Rev. Don Skinner. Belbutte: Full Gospel – 11 a.m.

Shell Lake: Partners In Worship - 9 a.m.

Rabbit Lake: Hoffnungsfelder Mennonite Church - 10 a.m; Cowboy Church every second Friday 7 p.m.

The following are Catholic scheduled masses:

Medstead: 6 p.m. Saturday;

Shell Lake - 8 p.m. Saturday;

Leoville - 11 a.m. Sunday;

Chitek Lake - 1 p.m.Sunday;

Mayfair (the time fluctuates - usually 8:30 or 9 a.m.) Sunday please call 306 246-4386 for correct time.

If I have missed a church in my area I apologize because to sort the places/ names of the religions and times was somewhat timeconsuming!

Riley and Mandy VanNortwick of Mayfair welcomed their second child, named Kayden, on June 17. Grandparents are Jackie and Norman VanNortwick. Congratulations to the proud parents and grandparents.

Ball tournaments are in full swing this time of the year as school is approaching year-end, so many sports are finished. I was fortunate to watch my three Maymont grandkids partake in one last Friday evening and Saturday at Glenburn Regional Park south of Maymont. Being excellent weather, many fans were present, which kept the canteen workers extremely busy. Being rural it is difficult to even register enough children on an assigned team so many had younger ones in order to have a ball team. Three teams involved were Borden, Hafford and Maymont. Most games were extremely close in score. In between the games, there was swimming and the well-maintained playground was extensively used. Winning teams in the following age categories were: U (which means under the age of) U18 Hafford; U15 Maymont; U12 Borden. All teams have a mixture of girls, who needless to say, are great players!

Nearby village Medstead had their grand opening of the new playground situated on the corner of 2nd Street and 2nd Avenue on Sunday. June 18. There was an official ribboncutting ceremony by community, government and committee members. A barbecue lunch including a special celebration cake was held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Many locals were in attendance. This will be a hub of activity for the wee ones during the school holidays.

Last month Peter Pawl-

ivsky of Rabbit Lake passed away after not feeling well. Neighbours would check up on him every day as he was an older man who lived alone. He was a member of a very large pioneer family, growing up in a district called Square Hill southwest of Rabbit Lake. Woloshyns purchased most of the Pawlivsky’s land in the 1980s. A memorial is scheduled for a later date.

As I wrote in last week’s paper, I was vacationing in Prince George, B.C. and surrounding areas. They have a busy little airport with two departing gates. One certainly could not get lost in this building. This city has a population of almost 80,000 and is titled the “northern capital” to Yukon and Alaska. Many live here who are transported to work by air. There is even access for car rentals, which is a plus in this airport.

Summer reading programs for kids should be on the “to do” list for activities and to keep up reading skills. Colleen Wicks, the main librarian in Speers, is hosting “Story Walk” in which there will be signs outdoors to direct information on the story. By using the QR code on an iPad or whatever electronic gadgets, one can download the story. She also has different fun things for the kids and adults to participate in.

Colleen likes to see people of all ages using this Lakeland Library rural branch.

In reading the history books of different areas, one can’t help but recognize so many familiar names. I get carried away, but there is so much valuable information that it’s difficult to put the book down! It takes a large commitment from many who produce these worthy books to be passed down to forthcoming generations. The pioneers sacrificed so much that we can be truly thankful for our better way of life on the prairies. The old saying is, and I quote, “From tiny seeds, might trees grow with strong branches did grow.”

“Dads are most Ordinary Men turned by Love into Heroes, Adventurers, Story-Tellers and Singers of Songs“

Shane and Mike of Battleford Furniture and Tyler Michnik and son

Left to Right - Henry, Tyler and Carl Michnik

Maymont’s team at the MICRA ball tournament: Back row - Parker Sevick, Carter Mcintosh, Jared Meena, Emma Harder, Deagan Starycki, Dexter Stotz, Coach Jennifer Starycki, Keller Nickel, Coach Jackie Caldwell, Coach Tracey Meena. Middle row - Kara Combres, Jasmyn Elgersma, Emmerson Voegeli, Nate Starycki, Anneka Harder, Kyler Domak, Jayden Caldwell, Talon Cheney, Elliott Perehudoff. Front - Umpire Cliff. | Photo submitted

FOR SALE - MISC

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FOR SALE - MISC

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

deer 1850 Air drill 61 feet, 10 inch spacing, double shoot, 1900

tank - asking $35,000. John deer 8640 tractor - asking $22,022 obo.

Caterpillar Tractor - asking $50,000 obo.

foot sprayer End flare booms and disk markers -

MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM

July

In loving memory of

Ramona Houle

May the winds of Heaven blow softly And whisper in your ear, How much we love and miss you And wish that you were here.

Sadly missed and Always Remembered Larry, Chantel, Meagen, Mom (Anni Baier) & All family

Miss

Lovingly remembered by wife Anni, Children and Grandchildren

FUNERAL SERVICES

WOHLBERG: It is with sadness we announce the passing of Mrs. Irene Wohlberg in Saskatoon, SK on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at the age of 84 years. Survived by her daughter’s, sons-in-law, grandsons and their children: Daughter, Laurie (Lloyd) Carriere of North Battleford, SK and their children: Lindsey (Sarah) – Emily and Jillian; and Lyndon (Rebecca) – Linnea; Daughter, Wendy (Keith) Pettapiece of Saskatoon, SK and their children: Todd (Jill); Trevor (Loreen) – Jackson and Emma; and Cody (Theresa); Siblings: Willie Alkier, Margaret (Larry Erickson) Bogdanski and Gordon (Fern) Alkier; Brothers and sisters-in-law: Forrest and Marion Wohlberg; Elwood and Marilyn Wohlberg; Donald and Vicki Wohlberg as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband, Mervin Wohlberg; Sister and Brother-in-law, Ethel and Dave Kinnaird; Sister-in-law, Helen Alkier; Brothers-in-law: Mike Bogdanski, Doug Wohlberg; Sister-in-law, Evelyn Wohlberg and niece, Debbie Isaacson. A Funeral Service took place on Thursday, June 15, 2023 held at Third Avenue United Church 1301 102 St, North Battleford, SK S9A 1G4 with Reverend Jo Ann Hills officiating. The Service was recorded for those who are unable to attend and available at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society 55 St Clair Avenue West, Suite 500 Toronto, Ontario M4V 2Y7. Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

BOUMA: Doreen Bouma

Survived by her loving husband of 35 years Jack Bouma. Children; Dean Knutson (Carmen), Lee Knutson (Diana), and Brenda Ochs (Glen). Grandchildren; Angela (Cliff), Darryl, Amanda, Zach, Amy (Ryan), Eathan (Halee), Michael (Haley). Cherished Great Grandma of Finn, Franklin, Lilly, Elodie, Jolie and Nora. Siblings; Murray (Sandra), BettyAnn (Allan), Lois (Ray). As well as many many more loved nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents

Robert James and Luella May Williams and brother Allan Clarence Williams

Celebration of Life

Sallows & McDonald ~ Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home 1271 103st, North Battleford, Saskatchewan June 24, 2023 1:00 pm. In Leiu of flowers please make a memorial donation in memory of Doreen to Stars Ambulance STARS Donations 441 Aviation Park NE, Box 570 Calgary, Alberta T2E 8M7

LAWRENCE: Mrs. Janice

Eva Lawrence (née Feduniak) passed away peacefully on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the age of 69 years, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Left to cherish Janice’s memory are her husband, James “Jim” Lawrence; her children and their families, James “Jamie” (Koreen) Lawrence – Bailey, Noah & Jacob, Jaylyn Lawrence (Ryan Haase) –William, Samuel & Eva, Jessica Lawrence (Nicholas Nikiforuk) – Daniel, Charles & Michael; her sister, Patricia (Lawrence) Rychjohn and their children; and her numerous extended family and friends. Janice is predeceased by her parents, Michael & Eva Feduniak; sister, Betty Feduniak; and her in-laws, William & Gladys Lawrence. Janice was born in 1954 in North Battleford, SK, and grew up in Glaslyn, SK. She excelled in her studies, both in school and in piano. Janice graduated from the University of Saskatchewan College of Law in 1977 and completed her Articles, gaining admission to the Law Society of Saskatchewan in 1980, the same year she started her career as a lawyer at Battlefords Legal Aid. She was promoted to Director in 1996, appointed to Queen’s Counsel in 1998, and officially retired in 2022. During her 40 plus year career as a lawyer at Battlefords Legal Aid Janice was a dedicated professional who loved her calling. Janice’s ethics as a lawyer was impeccable. She was honest with her clients and would tell them if their position was without merit. When her clients’ cause did have merit, Janice respected the pursuit of justice and was a zealous advocate, even when others would have given up. Her work on social services files was first class. She constantly challenged economic and racial bias in the social services system, and in the process helped families stay together. Janice worked with many people during her legal career and made lifelong friendships. Janice was an avid gardener and enjoyed spending countless hours in the yard at the House in North Battleford, the Farm at Glaslyn / Fairholme, and the Cabin at Turtle Lake Lodge. Her gardens are spectacular and will continue to exemplify her passion and dedication to perfection with all that she did in life. Janice enjoyed spending quality time with her family and particularly cherished her grandchildren. A Funeral Service was held Tuesday, June 13, 2023 - 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Anglican Church officiated by Rev. Trevor Malyon. Thank you to all who attended and to all who have shared their condolence. Special Thanks to the Nurses and Staff of BUH COPS, BUH Palliative Care, and Harwood Manor; Dr. Patricia Campbell M.D.; Rev. Trevor Malyon - St. Paul’s Anglican Church; Glaslyn Community Center. Memorials can be made in Janice’s memory to BUH Foundation P.O. Box 1358 North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8; Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium - Trevor Watts -Funeral Director.

OBITUARIES

PIKE: Helena Marie Pike passed away peacefully at the Maidstone Health Complex, Maidstone, Saskatchewan, on April 26, 2023, at the age of 95 years. Helena will be dearly missed by her son-inlaw Maurice Oddan; grandson Mark (Tracy) Oddan; greatgrandsons Carter and Lincoln Oddan; sisters-in-law Evelyn Janus (of Maidstone, SK), Evelyn Janus (of Mission, BC), Christine Pike, Maureen Bexson, Lois Pike and Jeanette Pike; numerous nieces and nephews and their families; dear friends and neighbours. Helena was pre-deceased by her loving husband, Ronald Pike; daughter, Phoebe “Ellen” Oddan; father and mother, Hendrik and Cornelia Janus; father and mother-in-law, Everard and Winifred Pike; siblings/siblingsin-law, Dorothy (Harold) Skands, Dio Janus, Harry (Lil) Janus, William Janus, Cornelia “Nellie” Bruder, Margaret (Gilbert) Hickson, Alvin (Florence) Pike, Joyce (Dan) Lamont, Gerald Pike, Eileen (Bill) Lamont, Dennis Pike, Rusty Bexson; niece Kelly Janus; nephews Hugh Lamont, Randy Pike, John Janus, David Bexson; and great-grandsons, Asher and Declan Oddan. Helena was born on June 27, 1927 in Lashburn – the fifth of six children born into the Hendrik and Cornelia Janus family, whose farm was south of Waseca in “the hills” of the Battlevale district. She began teaching in 1945 at Lonsdale School, a log building near Loon Lake. She then moved to Forest Bank, where she met her husband, Ronald Pike, and taught at Forest Bank School. She later taught at Waseca for 27 years, 10 of those as principal. During this time, she earned her Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan, through summer school and off-campus classes. Helena was a councilor for the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation (STF) for 10 years. For all of her teaching career she was an active, concerned member. She spent one eventful summer in Nigeria, helping teachers through the Canadian Teachers’ Federation “Project Overseas Program”. She retired from teaching in 1981 after 36 years of dedicated service to her students. She then joined the Lloydminster chapter of the Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan (STS) and was active locally and provincially for another 25 years, including terms as provincial vice-president and president. Helena was always a community-minded individual. She was organist and music leader for her church for more than 60 years; served on local recreation and library boards; was a leader in the Forest Bank 4-H Club and a member of the Forest Bank Friendship Group; read to seniors in Pine Island Lodge; wrote weekly columns in the Maidstone Mirror (and later Battlefords News-Optimist) about all the news in Forest Bank and Waseca; and happily tutored English to many Catholic priests who were new to Canada. She worked for many years on the Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary; helped out regularly at the Waseca seniors’ wellness clinics; served on the “Provincial Farm Support Review Committee”; and was long interested in politics, serving her chosen party diligently on the local executive and being office manager on several election campaigns. Upon retirement, Helena travelled with Ronald nearly every spring and over the years journeyed to some 50 countries around the world. Later, they would take Mark on an annual “Educational Tour” to different locations across Western Canada, and then drove him to his summer camps in Montana. After Ronald passed in 1996, Helena continued to travel extensively with retired teacher friends and new people she met on her travels. Some of her later adventures included going up the MacKenzie River all the way to the Arctic Ocean, making a trans-Atlantic crossing in a ship from the Mediterranean to Florida, visiting Mark in Victoria and Wales and visiting the family overseas with Mark and later by herself. After retirement, Helena had more time to devote to Ellen, Maurice and Mark, and with Ronald, they did so much for the busy young family –from providing food to carpentry projects to chauffeuring Mark. Anything that was needed – for family or the community – you could count on them doing it! Helena had a deep interest in history, and, in particular, local and family history. She worked hard on the Waseca history book committee to put together the histories of Battlevale, Walter, Waseca and the Waseca district. She was the family historian, tracking down genealogy, translating Dutch letters and records into English and keeping in contact with as many Janus family members as possible in the Netherlands, England and New Zealand. Keeping the family connection alive was so important to her, and she leaves the next generations a wealth of information, photos and memorabilia from the Janus family here and abroad with which to continue the preservation of family history. Always modest, Helena was not interested in accolades as she dedicated herself to community service. Yet, she still managed to gain many awards over the years, of which she was quietly proud. Some of these include being recognized by the Province of Saskatchewan for excellence in teaching during her active teaching career; being honoured with the Queen’s Silver Jubilee medal in 1977; receiving the STS Honourary Life Membership in 1997; and being recognized in 2015 by the village of Waseca for her tireless efforts in support of the community. The Funeral Service for Helena was conducted from Waseca Memorial Hall Waseca on Monday, May 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. If you were unable to attend in person, you may view a live recording of the service posted on the McCaw Funeral Service website, under Helena’s obituary. Interment was held in Forest Bank Cemetery, Forest Bank, Saskatchewan. Donations in memory of Helena can be made to Maidstone Health Complex, Forest Bank Church – Cemetery or a charity of the donor’s choice. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements. Maurice, Mark and Tracy would like to thank: the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, homecare nurses and Pine Island Suites staff in Maidstone who helped Helena throughout the past several months; all those involved in or who attended her funeral service; everyone who gave cards, flowers, donations; and the close family and friends who have provided helping hands, transportation, love and support to Helena over the years.

SASKATCHEWAN’S BEST ONLINE

HEALTH SERVICES

LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES

JONESLAWOFFICEhasclosed

asofMay31,2023.

Documentsandfilesarelocatedat:

MIGNEAULTLAWOFFICE

1391-101STStreet

NORTHBATTLEFORD, SKS9A0Z9

Phone:306-445-4436

LittleLoonRegionalPark

AnnualGeneralMeeting

LittleLoonRegionalParkAuthority

AnnualGeneralMeetingwillbeheld July13,2023from8PM-9PMat theLittleLoonClubhouse. 306-342-2176llrp.ca

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of CLARENCE

MELVIN SPENCE, late of Turtleford, 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 14th day of July, 2023.

Battle River Law

Baldwin, Friedman, Spence Barristers & Solicitors

201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executrix of the Estate of Clarence Melvin Spence

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of KELLEY RAY BAHREY, late of North Battleford, Saskatchewan, deceased.

ALL CLAIMS against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 14th day of July, 2023.

Battle River Law

Baldwin, Friedman, Spence Barristers & Solicitors 201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executors of the Estate of Kelley Ray Bahrey.

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 306-445-7261

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of ALBERT RONALD DARRAGH, late of Turtleford, 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 14th day of July, 2023.

Battle River Law

Baldwin, Friedman, Spence Barristers & Solicitors

201, 1291 - 102nd Street Box 905 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Z3 Solicitors for the Executors of the Estate of Albert Ronald Darragh

LAND FOR SALE

Farmland Sale by Tender; Half section of good quality pasture with grid road access in RM of Leask #464. Call Gerald Muller, C&C Realty, 306-570-7743.

FARMLAND

WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

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

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

FEED & SEED

WE BUY DAMAGED

WHEAT... OATS

PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX

WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN

1-877-250-5252

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society

Hi I’m Wiley!

Hi I’m Fiona!

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 (RM) intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007. A bylaw to amend Bylaw No. 02/2011 known as the Zoning Bylaw (ZB).

INTENT: To add Communal Boat Docks as an allowable accessory use within the Lakeshore Residential Districts. Rezoning all of Lots 18A & 19A, Block 2, Plan 102399767, lying within NW ¼ 17-47-16-W3M to LR1 – Lakeshore Residential [currently zoned partially A1 –Agricultural District and LR1 – Lakeshore Residential District].

AFFECTED LAND: Lands within the LR1 & LR2 – Lakeshore Residential Districts will be affected by the amendment.

REASON: The Zoning Bylaw did not outline communal boat docks as an allowable use. Council wanted to allow Communal Boat Docks as a use to accommodate options for residences to have access to boat docking facilities. Communal Boat Docks will not require a development permit where licencing is required. Additionally, a definition has been added for Communal Boat Docks.

Correct the split zoning of Lot 18A & Lot 19A, Block 2, Plan 102399767.

I have a tonnn of energy so I like to spend my free time outside playing with my doggy friends!

Boy am I ever excited to tell you a bit about myself! I am a huge lover, and need to be in a home with another feline to play with and hopefully become buddies with!

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

battlefordshumanesociety.com

LEGAL / PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE THAT; any ONE with a prior, equal, or superior right, interest, CONDUCT, treaty or Convention in/to/for/of the NAME and property of: MARTY DALE COCKRUM and/or COCKRUM, MARTY DALE Estate, or: JACKIE LYNN COCKRUM and/or COCKRUM, JACKIE LYNN Estate, or: JACKIE LYNN OGILVIE and/ or OGILVIE, JACKIE LYNN Estate, or: HUDSON DALE COCKRUM and/or COCKRUM, HUDSON DALE Estate, or: PHOENIX LYNN COCKRUM and/or COCKRUM, PHOENIX LYNN Estate; in any style or variation thereof capable to confuse, suspend, or clog said NAME, Title and/or Estate is hereby WARRANTED to present their said claim to Witness: Jenay Larsen c/o; box 815 Meadow Lake, SK S9X 1Y6, before 21st day of July 2023.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM Office during regular business hours, excluding statutory holidays. Hard copies will be available to the public at a cost at the RM Office. Digital copies can be obtained by contacting the Municipal Planner (robin@northboundplanning.ca; (306) 873-2200).

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing at 1:30 PM on July 5th, 2023, in the RM office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Public may attend meetings via teleconference or in person. If you wish to attend the meeting via teleconference, please contact the RM Administrator, Kirk Morrison, at cao@ rmmeota468.ca requesting a meeting link invitation. Council will also consider written comments received on or before June 30th, 2023, by the undersigned at the RM office by hardcopy or email before the hearing. The RM office is located at 300 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. The RM Office contact information: (306) 892-2061 or development@ rmmeota468.ca.

Issued by the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 this June 8, 2023.

Robin Bloski, BA (Hons), RPP, MCIP Development Officer / Municipal Planner RM of Meota No. 468

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468 Public Notice for Discretionary Use

Public notice is hereby given that pursuant to section 55 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, that the RM of Meota No. 468 has received an application for a discretionary use. The application is to construct a new storage compound to store ice shacks and boat trailers within the SE ¼ Section 18-47-16-W3M, as represented in the attached map The storage compound is located within the A1 – Agricultural Zoning District, section 5.2.4 g) of the Zoning Bylaw lists storage compounds as discretionary uses.

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Or-

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

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

THIRD AVENUE UNITED CHURCH requires a Part-time OFFICE CO-ORDINATOR

approximately 20 hours per week

• The successful applicant will be a mature individual with good communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills

• Computer experience in word processing and accounting is necessary

• Responsibilities will include secretarial and financial functions, as well as management of the rental of church facilities

Closing date for applications is June 30, 2023

Position to commence at a date mutually determined with successful candidate

Please send resume with references to:

Ministry and Personnel Committee Third Avenue United Church 1301 – 102nd St. North Battleford, SK S9A 1G4

For further information you may call 306-445-8539

GRADER OPERATOR

R.M. OF MAYFIELD NO. 406

Council will consider this application at the regular scheduled Council meeting on July 5th, 2023 at 2:00pm in the RM of Meota office. If you wish to comment on these proposals, please do so in writing prior to Friday, June 30th, 2023 to the RM of Meota No. 468, Box 80, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. For additional information please contact the office at (306) 873-2200 or at robin@northboundplanning.ca

Robin Bloski, RPP, MCIP Community Planner

June 14, 2023

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

PUBLIC NOTICE

RM of Mervin No. 499 Public Notice Zoning Bylaw Amendments

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality (RM) of Mervin No. 499 intends to adopt a bylaw under the Planning and Development Act, 2007, to amend Bylaw No. 94-4, known as the Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT: To introduce gas bar regulations for the LD1, LD2 and LD3 districts into the Zoning Bylaw, and update gas bar regulations in the CON district. Additionally, the ability to place Multiple Complimentary (Vertically Integrated) Uses (MCU) on a site will be added. Definitions for Gas Bar, Service Station, and MCU will be added.

AFFECTED LAND: Lands within the LD1, LD2, LD3, and CON Districts would be affected by the gas bar regulations, and all districts will be affected by the MCU regulations in proposed Bylaw 2023-31

REASON: Currently gas bars are not dealt with in the Lakeshore districts, unlike some other districts in the Zoning Bylaw. Council wishes to clearly indicate how gas bars uses are allowed in the Lakeshore districts, add regulations for that use, and update the regulations for that use in the Conservation district. Additionally, MCE uses are being brought in to allow situations such as a service station with a gas bar on one site.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaw at the RM of Mervin No. 499 office between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. excluding statutory holidays. Copies will be available to the public at a cost, by emailing the contact below, or on the RM’s website. Copies of the proposed amendment are available for viewing here: https://rmofmervin.ca/planning_development/planning_development_ public_notification.html.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at 1:30 PM in the RM office located at 211 Main St. in the Town of Turtleford to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendment; a digital participation component will be available to the public. Council will consider written and emailed comments at the meeting, along with in-person and digital representations. The deadline for receipt of comments, and requests for online representation must be received by the RM office or its Planner by Thursday, July 6, 2023 For additional information, please contact the administrator at (306) 845-2045 or rm499@rmofmervin.com. Box 130 Turtleford, SK S0M 2Y0. Issued at the Town of Turtleford this 5th day of June, 2023.

Brenda Ottenbreit CAO

RM of Mervin No.

499

The Rural Municipality of Mayfield No. 406 is currently accepting applications for the position of Grader Operator. Employment is full-time year-round, or can be seasonal full-time, depending on the applicant’s needs.

Eligible applicants must possess a valid driver’s license, along with the ability and knowledge to operate and service a wide range of municipal equipment.

Duties include but not limited to:

Road grading and maintenance

Road construction

Culvert and sign installation and maintenance

Equipment maintenance and repair

Other duties as directed by the Foreman and Council

Salary will be negotiated based on experience and qualifications. The RM offers an excellent health and dental plan as well as a pension plan.

Interested individuals should submit their resume to:

RM of Mayfield No. 406

Box 100 Maymont SK S0M 1T0

Email: rm406@sasktel.net

Tel: (306) 389-2112

The position will remain open until filled. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

This

Quorum appointed for RM of Reford Provincial ministry sets by-election for Aug. 30

SASKTODAY.CA

The Ministry of Government Relations has appointed three individuals to make up a quorum for the council of the RM of Reford, which lost most of its members by resignation in a recent meeting.

In a statement provided to the Unity-Wilkie PressHerald and SASKTODAY. ca, the ministry says it has also set a by-election date of Aug. 30.

The ministry’s statement said, “When a municipality experiences a loss of quorum due to resignations, section 14 of The Local Government Election Act, 2015

and section 97 of The Municipalities Act authorizes the Minister to issue an order to appoint one or more persons to act as members of council and hold office until the vacancies are filled at an election.”

A Minister’s Order has been issued effective June 19, appointing the following individuals to act as council to restore quorum: Peter Volk of Tramping Lake, as Reeve; and Kim Gartner of Macklin and Alex Majewski of Wilkie, as councillors at large to represent Divisions 1, 2, 4 and 6.

The Minister’s Order

also sets the by-election date as Wednesday, Aug, 30. This by-election will be to fill the vacant positions, being reeve, and councillors for Divisions 1, 2, 4, and 6.

The Minister’s Order also appoints Don McCallum of Cut Knife to be Returning Officer for the by-election.”

The appointments and by-election come as a result of a mass resignation at a June 8 RM of Reford meeting, when, after an in-camera session dealing with harassment claims and human resource issues, meeting ended early when almost everyone resigned, including two staff.

The meeting followed two months of the distribution of a newsletter, edited by an unknown person, called the RefordGate Gazette, which, naming names, called out council members’ alleged actions, as well as staff, on issues described as “horse trading” and “monkey business.”

As earlier reporting on SASKTODAY.ca, indicated, the June 8 meeting of the RM of Reford No. 379 ended dramatically when Reeve Gerald Gerlinsky tendered his resignation, effective immediately. That resignation was quickly followed by councillor

Evan Johnson resigning. Quentin Sittler tendered the resignation of Nathan Keller, who was absent, and then also resigned himself.

Acting administrator

Curt Kowalchuk asked if anyone else was resigning, and Deputy Reeve Greg Sutherland asked for a minute to write out his resignation, did so and

left the council chambers, as had all others who resigned.

With only Lyle Ulsifer and Daryl Glackin remaining, quorum was lost.

An earlier in-camera session saw resignations tendered by Kowalchuk and by assistant administrator Wanda Laturnus, both effective June 29.

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Medstead’s new playground officially opens

Submitted by the Village of Medstead

Sunday, the Medstead community celebrated the official grand opening of their more than $105,000 playground project. Construction on the project in Centennial Park near the corner of Second Avenue and Second Street began in the spring of 2021. Work included pouring gravel for a base, installation of park furniture and playground equipment, and building a fence, along with associated works. The project was completed later that same year. The project was managed and organized by the Village of Medstead’s Playground Committee.

The Government of Canada invested $42,379 toward the project and the Government of Saskatchewan contributed

$35,312. The Village of Medstead funded the remainder.

“Playgrounds are at the heart of neighbourhoods right across the country. Our government is proud to be a partner with the Government of Saskatchewan and the Village of Medstead to make this project a reality – one that will make a big difference in the lives of families and children in the community,” said the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, in a message read by a committee member.

“Our government is proud to invest more than $35,000 toward the Village of Medstead’s playground project,” said Ryan Domotor, MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford on behalf of the Honourable Don McMorris, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Government Relations. “It helps position Medstead as an

attractive place to live, provides recreational opportunities for youth and strengthens the heart of the community by creating a central place where families can gather.”

“Thanks to funding from both the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan, along with support of our village council, support from our community, along with the dedicated volunteers and members of our playground committee, this project is now a reality to be enjoyed by all of the families and children who call Medstead home. I’m proud of the work our village accomplished to help make our community even better for the young families moving here and wish to once again thank everyone involved,” said His Worship Michael Goosney, Mayor of the Village of Medstead.

At the grand opening of Medstead’s playground June 18, Mayor Mike Goosney offered greetings from the Village of Medstead and MLA Ryan Domitor brought greetings from the Province of Saskatchewan.| Photo submitted