Regional News-Optimist March 16, 2023

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

The City of North Battleford has signed on to a new agreement for funding for Destination Battlefords, a major step towards reviving the tourism marketing organization.

The service agreement runs for a three-year term to the end of 2025, starting retroactively to Jan. 1 of this year. Council gave its approval to the agreement Monday night.

The agreement was presented at Monday’s council meeting by the city’s economic development manager Jan Swanson. He explained in his presentation that the agreement was already pre-approved for a budget of $40,000 and up to 25 per cent of the economic development manager’s time.

Funding for Destination Battlefords will also come from the Battlefords Hotel Association. Swanson adds there is also an agreement with the Battlefords and District Chamber of Commerce to share one student half-time until September to help the organization get up and running.

The agreement marks a turning point for Destination Battlefords after months of uncertainty and

turmoil.

Through 2020 and 2021 Destination Battlefords had all but closed, maintaining minimal staff during a pandemic shutdown period which saw tourism grind to a halt.

It was then dealt a near death blow when the Town of Battleford pulled out as a funding partner. That took effect early in 2022.

From January 2022 on, Destination Battlefords was completely inactive with no staff. By then the organization had also departed their Battlefords River Valley Visitor Centre location. North Battleford council ultimately voted to renovate the building for its own building maintenance staff and operations.

However, work has been proceeding this year to reconstitute and re-organize Destination Battlefords.

There is a board consisting of two representatives from each funding partner as well as a representative at large. Councillors Kelli Hawtin and Kent Lindgren are the city’s two representatives.

On Monday, Hawtin gave council an update on Destination Battlefords and the work currently happening. The indication was the organization was pretty much having to start

up again from scratch.

“The board was really at a place where we didn’t have a lot of stuff organized because we lost our staff a couple of years ago, and nothing really happened through the years of the pandemic,” Hawtin said.

Hawtin said they were in a “rebuilding phase,” but noted they had their board solidified and their staff solidified, with Swanson taking on one role (as 25 per cent of his economic development manager position) and with the student from the chamber to help get their advertising and social media going.

“Jan’s been really working on agreements and we’re going to look at our bylaws because those are going to need some revisions with the new partnership,” said Hawtin.

Afterwards, they will work on a strategic plan and think of “one big thing we can work on this year.” Hawtin suggested sports tourism could be a possibility at this point.

Hawtin believed the organization was “on the right track” and this agreement was “the first piece of what we need to kind of give us our mandate to get out of the gates for the next two and a half years.”

BATC ensures support for shelter

Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs is expressing confidence there will be minimal impact to the operations of Miwasin Kikinaw Homeless Shelter, despite the building’s landlords, the Lighthouse, going into receivership.

In a news release, BATC states that the court appointed receiver, MNP, is reviewing options for the shelter property as well as for two transitional houses in North Battleford.

“The BATC Chiefs feel confident that all partners will work proactively together to ensure there is minimal impact to our people that need support in their transition,” said Tribal Chair Sylvia Weenie in a statement.

Inclusivity highlights state

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

At the first State of the City Address in over three years, Mayor David Gillan began his address on the city’s recent partnerships, major projects and vision into the future by thanking attendees and offering a land acknowledgement.

Gillan began by speaking on the partnerships the city has undertaken in the last three years, starting with the near closure of the Lighthouse emergency shelter in 2021 after the council’s election. Immediately, the city contacted the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan and BATC to discuss a long-term plan to keep the shelter open. This culminated with BATC operating the emergency shelter in the Battlefords, now Miwasin Kikinaw.

“I can honestly say that without sitting down and working in partnership with everyone, we may not have an emergency shelter today,” Gillan said, thanking BATC, the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan Ian Hamilton for his work to save the shelter.

In 2020, the Battlefords saw the completion of a parks and rec master plan between the city and the town of Battleford. This plan included the sharing of facilities and resources

for long-term provision in the region.

“Both councils recognized that it does not matter whether you live in the town of Battleford or North Battleford, people wanted high-level facilities and programming, without duplication,” Gillian said.

Gillan also added that both the town and the city recently signed a multiyear agreement to assist each other with the funding of regional assets. The city is now entering into similar discussions with neighbouring RMs.

In 2018, the city of North Battleford, the town of Battleford, neighbouring RMs, and five First Nations signed an agreement, establishing a formal partnership called the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition.

Some results include:

• anti-racism workshops;

• COVID-19 pandemic meetings; and

• a comprehensive regional emergency plan.

Gillian also believes that as a result of this agreement and the BRCC partnership, the town and city signed onto the coalition of inclusive municipalities, of which 96 other cities and towns are also members across Canada.

But Gillan feels that although the city is focused Nature

on partnering with community members to foster a community where everyone feels welcome, and a society without fences, there is still a problem.

“Does everyone have the opportunity to truly participate? It has to do with the fundamental difference between being in the community, and being of the community,” Gillan said.

He added that everyone can be in the community by going to the store, going to school, buying a home or going to church. But to Gillan, being a part of the community means being recognized, validated, and supported by municipal lawmakers, teachers, employers, public and social services, housing, medical providers, the religious

address

The city pays for 37 RCMP officers and approximately another 20 to 30 are paid for by the province.

“One of the things I am most proud of, and I’m sure our council members were all very proud of, is the community leadership groups that come forward, especially Citizens on Patrol,” Gillan said.

addictions.

Before moving on to address post-secondary education in the Battlefords, Gillan added that half of all vehicle thefts in the Battlefords are because keys are left in the ignition or fobs are in the cars.

Finlayson Island is often visited by the pileated woodpecker. These are colourful birds and you can often hear them drumming on a tree before you actually see them. From head to tail, they are about 16-19 inches long. They like to visit trees that are infested with insects, which often have woodpecker holes that are used for nesting. Design all around. | Photo and text by Jim McLane

community, and the general population.

“That is being of the community.”

Since the council was elected, the city has undertaken several initiatives furthering inclusion and reconciliation, including:

• The adoption of a formal land acknowledgment policy;

• Raising Métis and Treaty 6 flags in council chambers;

• renaming Railway Ave West to Peyak Trail;

• the creation of two urban reserves with a plan to create two more;

• celebrating Pride Week and the LGBTQ2+ community; and

• completing the first stage of new accessible council chambers

Looking at crime

Addressing the topic of crime in the Battlefords, Gillan said that it’s been a priority for previous councils as well, adding that North Battleford has frequently been number one or two on the Crime Severity Index.

“We understand the challenge this negative moniker can bring to you, your business, to our community, and we have committed resources to tackle this and build our public image … If you ask almost anyone, I think it has been misrepresented.”

And although with the formation of the Gang Task Force Unit has seen a decrease in violent offences and the Battlefords ranking on the violent crime CSI index, non-violent crime including mischief, trespassing and vehicle theft have been rising and contributes 30 per cent to the overall index.

Gillan said that COPP is endorsed and supported by the council because he believes their work is proven to deter trespassing, car shopping and other forms of petty crime.

“Having engaged citizens who take pride in our region is so important, and ultimately, that sense of community is what will evolve into a strategy for re-framing the Battlefords,” Gillan said, imploring anyone with free time to join him and Mayor Ames Leslie as members of COPP.

“The more members we have the safer our city will be.”

Speaking to enforcement and community safety, Gillan reminded people that the Battlefords has the largest RCMP detachment in Saskatchewan which responds to both the city and town, and the RMs of Battle River, Meota and North Battleford.

But Gillan believes the Battlefords is receiving more attention from the provincial government, including a new crime reduction team for the Battlefords, six Community Safety Officers, Gillan anticipates “seriously positive results over the next few years.”

He also said the city has been nurturing relationships with the federal government, and specifically Public Safety Canada, regarding funding for programming with a prevention perspective, adding, “20 per cent of crime is directly attributable to mental health and addiction, at least … We will receive funding for a gang exit strategy and community wellness.”

The city will have more information in the coming months, including information on provincial funding for mental health and

“We don’t live in a perfect world, but we need to collectively work together to prevent crime. I encourage you not only to read the newspaper to find out news about what is happening in the city, especially around crime and safety, but also follow us at the city on our social media,” he said, asking people to follow the City of North Battleford’s Facebook page to see good news about the Battlefords.

“We’re working very hard to change the narrative that permeates all of the social media.”

Education

Gillan says North West College is so popular it is running out of space to offer all the programs it would like to. He then shared that a site for a new campus for NWC has been selected inside the city.

“I can confidently say that this council is highly supportive of a new college campus. I’ve been drawn to the college’s approach to change the lives of those who are experiencing challenges within our community,” he said.

Gillian said that the college has been forthcoming about wanting to create long-term opportunities to assist those who want to go to the school and stay in the Battlefords while they do it.

“The province of Saskatchewan is in the enviable position that it has more jobs than people to fill the jobs. Especially around mining, light manufacturing and healthcare,” he said. Some employers are hiring overseas or outof-province he said.

“We have many young adults in the Battlefords that need these opportunities, but sometimes going to Saskatoon for school isn’t an option. We must bring more programming to the Battlefords,” Gillan said.

Continued on Page 12

Mayor David Gillan speaking at the 2023 State of the City event in North Battleford. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

Our health care system is very definition of insanity

Ideology is the problem, not the solution

By Susan Martinuk

What’s wrong with Canada’s health-care system?

Dysfunctional systems, wait lists, not enough doctors, and not enough beds are just the obvious ‘starters’ in a long list of problems that are keeping Canadians from accessing medical care.

While tossing more money at the problem will provide temporary relief, it can’t fix the one defining issue preventing positive change in delivering health-care services – ideology. Canada’s health-care system is falling apart because it has been built on the mistaken idea that only government can pay for, and deliver, health-care (called single-payer universality) rather than on the more practical notion of actually providing timely medical care.

That’s why the federal government’s recent offer of $46.2 billion for health care over 10 years comes with strings attached: Expenditures must maintain medicare’s governing ideology of single-payer universality – the very concept that has constricted access to care and created years-long wait lists for surgery, scans and specialists.

Ideology has been at the heart of medicare since its inception, and a little history will go a long way to understanding our collective foolishness in allowing this to persist.

From the mid-1940s to the early 1960s, Saskatchewan’s Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) party (the precursor to today’s NDP), led by Tommy Douglas, won multiple elections by promising evergrowing coverage of medical care that culminated in full universality in 1962. Along the way, the CCF had assured voters that such reforms were sustainable: that party line/myth held true until 1964, when the CCF was finally ousted from power by the Liberals led by Ross Thatcher.

As related to me by Thatcher’s then-chief of staff, Thatcher’s priority was to figure out how to fund the medicare monster that he had inherited. He had a fresh team of accountants pour over the province’s financial books, but all they could conclude was that the money to fund medicare simply wasn’t there. In other words, the CCF had misled the Saskatchewan people by telling them the province could provide sustainable funding for universal medicare. Thatcher immediately fired the bureaucrats who had created the program and seemingly fudged the books.

Meanwhile, back in Ottawa, Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson was leading a minority government and looking for a wedge issue to gain total power in the next federal election. His top advisor, Tom Kent, offered universal medicare as the solution, calling it “the jewel in the record of achievement” that the government could use

to win a majority government. (Tom Kent, A Public Purpose, page 365)

The uncertainty about when a federal election might be held added to the pressure to quickly create a national medicare plan to present to Canadians.

Pearson thought it best to base the national program on the Saskatchewan model, so the federal government hired none other than the same bureaucrats who had just been fired for incompetence by Premier Thatcher.

They tried – and failed – to once more develop realistic costs for a national medicare program. That was when one Saskatchewan bureaucrat came up with what Kent believed was a brilliant way to resolve the problem. In his 1988 book, Kent writes, “The government did not need to work out or legislate the details of a shared-cost program – it only needed to define, clearly, the principles of what it meant by medicare. Then it would contribute to the costs of any provincial program that satisfied those principles.” (Tom Kent, A Public Purpose, page 366)

That was how Canada’s beloved universal medicare program began – with the delivery of medical services founded and grounded in an intangible ideology rather than in more tangible concepts such as costs, sustainability, delivery, and common sense.

And here we are, almost 60 years later, still talking about making medicare work under the erroneous pre-

sumption that only our cash-strapped governments can deliver and pay for healthcare. Approximately three million Canadians sit on wait lists; six million are looking for primary care doctors; patients are waiting long hours for care in Emergency Departments; and cancer patients are dying awaiting treatment.

No strings should be attached to federal health transfers other than that they go towards health care. We should be emulating Europe’s successful hybrid/complementary health-care systems, where governments pay for most care, but both public and private sector professionals compete to provide care. Innovation and new delivery care models should be encouraged; patients who can afford private care should have it. Hospitals should be paid on activity-based funding that encourages more procedures rather than the current global funding that constricts care and the number of procedures.

Doing things the same way over and over and expecting a different result is what Einstein termed the definition of insanity. It’s time for Canadians to move past our collective insanity and realize that ideology is part of the problem, not the solution.

Susan Martinuk is a Senior Fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy and author of Patients at Risk: Exposing Canada’s Health-care Crisis. © Troy Media

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WoodPile The A Proper Rut

political chicanery which could merit an appropriate response from voters.

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

My article last week ended by observing that failing to follow Yogi Berra’s sage advice when coming to a fork in the road and not making a clear choice in the matter of election interference, Mr. Trudeau was “hung up.” He is now in a proper rut, which is a most appropriate anagram for Rapporteur and a perfect description of his political situation resulting from indecision. Extraction from this slough will require the equivalent t of a Malahat rotateur.

So far, a suitable rapporteur has yet to be found. This individual will be required to be independent (of what), special (in which ways), Canadian (diaspora free), unimpeachable (able to walk on water) and, of course, nonpartisan which is impos-

sible as even the offer of such a position will taint instantly and can only be called for and ratified by Mr. Trudeau.

The rapporteur will require staff, financing, office space, security clearance for all involved and a set time frame for conclusion, which will no doubt coincide with a cunningly timed election call. This would surely be archetypical Machiavellian

Glow-bowl your way to a family vacation

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Battlefords Concern

For Youth and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Battlefords are partnering on their signature fundraiser, Bowl for Kids Sake.

The fundraiser is set for April 2 and will be hosted at Gutters Bowling and Game Centre, with six themed glow-bowling times held throughout the day.

The themes include: Pyjama Jam from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ; Hockey Power Play from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. ; Inflatables + Onsies from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Feeling the Rainbow from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Hockey Power Play from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and Grooving Through the Decades from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (1970s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s)

The day’s activities include a raffle, free pickyour-prize for all youth, prizes for participants and teams that live up to their chosen theme, and more.

Registration is $20 per person or a team of six for $100.

New this year, families who participate in the day have a chance to win a family experience package in Saskatoon, including hotel, activities and a meal.

The BFKS raffle will open for virtual ticket reservations starting March 17.

For more information about the fundraiser, visit Big Brother’s Big Sisters of the Battlefords website at: www.battlefords.bigbrothersbigsisters. ca All proceeds from the fundraiser will go back

I cannot see any who work for the federal government or who are in any way involved with CSIS, MISICOP, NSIRA, CIA CRA or other acronyms and any who proclaim themselves simultaneously “humble and audacious”

(Foreign Minister Melanie Joly) being chosen for this elevated position or imbued with wisdom greater than that of our chosen representatives. Even high court judges are fallible it seems and may not qualify. Finding someone willing to serve in this already contentious capacity may prove difficult — don’t call me!

In distant memory, April 1 was a time for practical jokes and harmless levities. Today such simple pleasures are tempered as the date has been selected for alcohol tax increases predicted on the annual inflation rate. I’ve been studying this April’s increased taxes on alco-

holic drinks and fuels. The amounts are surprisingly small despite the publicity according them by the media — three or four cents on a litre of gas and less than one cent on a regular can of beer — hardly noticeable some might say. To my great astonishment, these tax increases may actually cause a reduction in the federal money haul, as we will drink less, buy smaller vehicles with tiny turbos and commute on battery bikes. By extending this line of thought, foodflation is even more desirable and rewarding — we will eat less, lose weight, become healthier, and some more shapely, eventually resulting in hospitals declaring budgetary surpluses and patient flow deficits.

Mr. Trudeau has both our “backs” and fronts and we should be so grateful for such caring from cradle to grave, columbarium or mantle shelf. Even Tommy Douglas would have approved.

Letters welcome

into supporting youth programming offered through both Concern for Youth and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Battlefords.

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

N’Bford welcomes new Engine-22 with tradition steeped ceremony

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The North Battleford Fire Department welcomed its newest pumper truck into service n March 10, with a traditional pushing-in and wet-down ceremony and a blessing from Elder Alvin Baptiste.

Lindsay Holm, North Battleford’s fire chief, said the new ceremony for incoming firetrucks is deeply rooted in the traditions of fire service and is expected to continue for future additions to the fleet.

“It’s one that we have actually adopted for the fire department, and I thought it was the right thing to do today,” Holm said.

The ceremonies featured the act of spraying water from the outgoing old Engine 22 onto the newly incoming Engine 22 and pushing the new $761,000 engine into the fire hall, which reflects

a time when firefighting used horse-drawn wagons.

“This is kinda a proud moment for us and the department because we have a beautiful fire engine that has arrived here, and we are about to put it into service,” Holm said.

And although new engines are typically assigned new numbers, the new fire truck will be called Engine 22, like its 23-year-old predecessor.

“I’ve done that for selfish reasons. It’s because that truck is the first apparatus I rode,” Holm said, getting emotional as he described the first structure fire that he rode to on Nov. 17, 2000.

“It’s kind of like the end of an era for me … it’s the last remaining fire engine in this hall since I started on the job … that truck is near and dear to my heart, it served our community so well, it’s been one of the most reliable trucks in our fleet. It’s never bro -

ken down ever,” Holm said.

“It’s kind of a bittersweet day,” Holm said, thanking the dignitaries present, including the McAngus, Hawtin, Ironstand and Taylor, for their work helping the fire department to obtain the updated equipment.

“If it wasn’t for your hard

work every day as councillors and committing to the community safety aspect, it’s something that we wouldn’t have.”

According to the city, in August 2021, council approved the purchase of the new pumper truck at a cost of $761,000, with the expectation that it will remain

in the city’s firefighting fleet for the next two decades of service. The truck was manufactured at Rocky Mountain Phoenix, and the city says it will increase the reliability of the department’s fleet vehicles, lower maintenance costs and improve overall firefighting capabilities.

New Sensory Room for Bready

Heath Gabruch, sixth from left, and members of the Kinsmen Rodeo Committee, present Brian Hargreaves, vice principal of Bready School, a cheque for $10,000 to support the completion of Bready’s Sensory Room Project. The sensory room will be a safe space for students to regulate, focus, and be ready to learn - a high priority in schools today. All students will benefit, including those with autism, ADHD, trauma, or anxiety and classes will have space to practice mindfulness and regulation, and meet sensory and gross motor developmental needs of all students/ | Photo courtesy Bready School

Firefighter Rob Beatch sprays water from the old Engine-22 onto the new Engine-22 to “baptize” the new truck as it joins the fleet. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

Cockrill salutes Kian Bell, B’fords North Stars

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

The fantastic season of the Battlefords North Stars is not going unnoticed in the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina.

In remarks in the Assembly on Thursday of last week, Minister of Highways and MLA for The Battlefords Jeremy Cockrill recognized the tremendous season for his hohometowneam, as well as the remarkable accomplishments of one player on the team in particular: Kian Bell. Cockrill’s full remarks are below, as recorded in Hansard.

Hon. Mr. Cockrill: — “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Battlefords are no stranger to

athletic prowess. From Rueben Mayes to Andrew Albers to Colby Cave, we’ve had our fair share of local sports heroes. But there’s a new star in town, a North Star in fact.

“Mr. Speaker, on February 24th, Kian Bell of the Battlefords North Stars scored his 50th goal of this SJHL [Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League] season. Doing that, he became only the fifth player since the year 2000 to score 50 goals in one SJHL season.

“Now, Mr. Speaker, I’ve seen Kian play several times this year and he’s certainly a special player, but he also comes from a pretty notable hockey family. The last North Star to score 50 goals in one season was his uncle, Martin Smith. And Kian’s own

Wild’s Window

mother, Fiona, had a distinguished hockey career of her own, including representing Canada at the 1998 Olympic Games in Nagano.

“Now, Mr. Speaker, I know that Kian and the rest of the North Stars, they’re not done yet. They have had an incredible season so far with only five losses in regulation. Now the playoffs are right around the corner, and I know the boys are ready to hopefully bring a championship back home to The Battlefords.

“So, Mr. Speaker, I would ask all members to join me in congratulating Kian on his 50-goal season and wishing the Battlefords North Stars all the best in the playoffs. Thank you.”

– Chicka-feed-meme

Lost in the morning sunlight, peaking from a small hill in the shrub, all around me flutter the small blackcapped chickadee, letting out the smallest of peeps as I drown in awe.

“Chicka-feed-meme!” | Photo and text by Blake Feist

Improving farm safety with new technologies

Farm workers cover a lot of ground on any given day, exposing themselves to harsh weather and challenging landscapes. They also work long hours and operate dangerous equipment, often while fatigued. Fortunately, new technological innovations are reducing farm safety risks.

• Onboard tractor systems. Seat-mounted consoles like Data Screen Manager provide driving guidance and information about the

tractor’s condition. Drivers get support while operating the tractor, and the device lets you know when it’s time for servicing or a part replacement.

• Drones. Thermal drones and high-definition cameras enable farm personnel to track cattle and inspect crops in real-time. Workers don’t have to risk rugged terrain and bad weather to collect the necessary data. It also saves labour hours that would oth erwise be lost to travelling.

• Remote sensing technology. Wireless systems can remotely measure grain tempera ture and moisture, providing the metrics farmers need to gauge the health of their crops. These systems can be placed inside grain bins or in fields, enabling farmers to receive data remotely and reducing the risk of grain entrapment.

• Livestock health monitoring. Farmers can now attach wearable “fitness” trackers to their cattle to monitor vital signs, activity and behaviour. Farmers get real-time, remote data about the health and safety of their animals without having to endure hazardous environments.

Any innovation that reduces workload has the potential to lower worker stress and physical fatigue. By increasing efficiencies, these innovations are making farms safer places to work.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week Farm safety means good business

Agriculture is a big business in Canada.

Recent statistics show that Canada’s agriculture and agri-food system employs around 2 million people and generates about $140 billion annually, more than 7 per cent of the country’s GDP.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) raises awareness of farm safety on the third week of March of every year. Since farming is one of Canada’s most hazardous occupations, decision-makers in agriculture must account for health and safety in planning and budgeting.

In addition to the financial impacts, the Canadian Agriculture Safety Association (CASA) has identified three other areas where businesses are affected by worker health and safety.

1. COMMODITY LOSS

When a worker is injured, the remaining staff may take on increased work, which puts them at a higher risk of making dangerous mistakes. Even if a re-

placement worker is hired, the new person needs training and time to get “up to speed.” The result of the farming operation is a loss in productivity.

2. LITIGATION EFFECTS

Workplace accidents make businesses vulnerable to legal action at three levels. They’re liable to regulators like the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. They may also be sued in civil court or tried under criminal law. Beyond the legal costs, the outcomes of such actions can have longterm ramifications for businesses.

3. HUMAN IMPACT

Every year in Canada, more than 100 people, including some children, are lost to agricultural fatalities. The injured person is only the beginning of these impacts because injury and loss of life affect entire families and communities. In addition, a workplace injury impacts morale and quality of life for everyone working and living on that farm.

$10 Per Day Child Care In Saskatchewan By April 2023

By partnering with the federal government, Saskatchewan is one of the first Canadian provinces to provide $10 per day regulated child care beginning on April 1, 2023. Parents whose children are under the age of six and attend regulated child care on a full-time basis can expect to pay $217.50 per month, saving an average of $395 to $573 per month. Investing in affordable, inclusive, high-quality child care gives children a positive start in life while providing parents with the flexibility and choice to build a family and career.

Art Notes

Tree of Life has ancient roots

By Rosemarie Stadnyk Battlefords Art Club

The Tree of Life is a symbol consistent with many ancient and modern cultures. The Tree of Life represents the connection of everything in the universe. The roots of the tree spread into the earth, thus receiving nourishment from Mother Earth. The branches reach to the sky and receive energy from the sun and moon. The tree represents protection, strength, growth and beauty. Trees grow upward and outward representing how a person increases in skills and knowledge as they grow.

Ancient cultures including the Vikings, ancient Egyptians, Celts, Native Americans, Jewish mystics, Chinese, African and Mayan cultures all have mythology and symbolism related to the

Festival Fanfare

Tree of Life. The Egyptian Tree of Life dates back to 3150 BC or earlier. Carvings of the design were found in Northern England dating to the Bronze Age. The ancient Celts always left a single tree in their settlement when they cleared the land. This tree provided warmth, protection, shelter and food. It thus became known as the “Tree of Life.”

Gustav Klimt completed his famous Tree of Life mural in 1909. The branches twist, twirl and turn to show the complexity of life. The branches reach to the sky and the roots dig deep into the soil representing the connection between heaven and Earth.

Today’s artists use the Tree of Life symbol in tattoos, paintings, jewellery, pendants, mosaics, carvings and installations.

Festival kicked off Monday, runs to Friday

By Kelly Waters

Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

The 91st annual Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival kicked off last Monday afternoon with a 10-and-under violin solo class at the Kinsmen Band Hall. The NBCK Community Band kicked off instrumental band classes in the evening program that same day with subsequent classes continuing through Friday, March 16. The final sessions for band and instrumental classes are Friday morning and afternoon March 16 with several duets, small ensembles and large ensembles at the Kinsmen Band Hall with

adjudicator Daryl McKinnon from Moose Jaw.

Speech Arts entries begin Monday morning March 20 in Logie Hall of Third Avenue United Church continuing into the afternoon and evening.

Vocal solo classes begin Tuesday morning March 21 in Logie Hall. Evening classes in the Sanctuary feature sacred and baroque classes. Wednesday, March 22, back in Logie Hall begins in the morning with solo poetry followed by folk songs or ballads.

The afternoon classes include additional speech arts classes with the first musical theatre classes.

The evening session begins with a classical voice class

followed by numerous musical theatre classes. Marcia McLean of Swift Current is the adjudicator for these classes.

Piano solo classes begin Wednesday evening in the sanctuary of Third Avenue United Church. Piano classes continue Thursday morning March 23 in Logie Hall with afternoon classes held in the sanctuary. Piano solos continue in Logie Hall Friday morning March 24 followed by sessions in the afternoon. The evening classes will be held in the sanctuary. The final morning and afternoon piano classes are Saturday, March 25 in Logie Hall. Maria Mellow of Calgary is the adductor for

piano classes.

Printed programs are available to purchase at Sobeys at the customer service counter. Students invited to perform at the final gala awards night will again have the opportunity to bring their talent to the world-class stage at the Dekker Centre Tuesday, March 28 at 7 p.m. Awards and scholarships will be presented at the gala.

Recipients for awards must be present with exceptions at the discretion of the scholarship and awards committee. Admission is $10 a seat with children, students, donors, sponsors and performers free of charge

If participating in the

festival or being part of the supportive audience, please bear in mind common courtesy and performance etiquette such as not entering or exiting venues during performances and turning off cellphones.

Photographs and videos of performers and adjudicators cannot be taken in the festival hall.

The festival venues are scent-free. Be sure to celebrate the accomplishments of each performer with enthusiastic congratulations.

Commenting on finding inspiration for songwriting, “A lot of the times it can be from mundane things like watching TV and someone will say something, and it clicks

in your mind. Often, I will write a lyric and I don t quite know it yet. It’s having an active mind. I have an active mind so there are always things buzzing around in my brain. Often, it’s a question of writing something down and pursuing an idea, and then it can turn into something completely different. But you’ve got something down to start you off.”Kim Simmonds (19472022), a Welsh musician. He was the founder, guitarist, primary songwriter and sole consistent member of the blues rock band Savoy Brown.

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 306-893-2619

Here are some examples of Battlefords Art Club paintings of the Tree of Life. | Photos submitted

Stories of immigrant women at Chapel Gallery

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

“If your portrait could speak, what would it say?” reads framed writing on the wall inside the Chapel Gallery, inviting viewers to take in Madhu Kumar’s The Stories of Immigrant Women.

Each of the life-sized portraits detailing the lives and stories of immigrant women is being celebrated at the Chapel Gallery for a few more weeks as the VR-centric storytelling portraits in the Windows Gallery prepares to continue their journey across Saskatchewan March 19, or March 26 if the exhibition is extended.

Leah Garven, gallery

manager for the Chapel Gallery, says the exhibit has been popular, she believes due to its visual strength and the stories it tells.

“It’s been very popular, and I thought that it would be a great story to bring to our community as it’s very diverse,” Garven said to the News-Optimist.

Garven says she believes “attractive” largescale portraits are appealing and that virtual reality just adds another deep layer that allows viewers to delve deeper if they want.

“People have been very participatory with it, more so than I’ve expected … this has been simple enough that most of our visitors have taken the time to listen to the individual

personal stories.”

Although the exhibition is set to finish on March 19, Garven believes the exhibition will be extended until March 26, a week after the gallery is closed due to a show change in the main space.

After Immigrant Women leaves the Windows Gallery, local artists Joanne Rivers Wing and Chris Hodge will bring a joint watercolour minimalist landscape exhibition into the space.

“It’s a lovely exhibition that’s a different medium for those artists and a very modern, less traditional view of a landscape,” Garven said.

Then, on April 1, the Chapel Gallery is hosting

a reception for Marjorie

Fisher’s incoming exhibition, Off on A Tangent, exploring what brings her joy

through whimsical, colourful images from her home, garden, and pastures.

For more information

about upcoming shows at the Chapel Gallery, visit their website at: https:// www.chapelgallery.ca/

BUH Foundation surpasses fundraising goal, buys new equipment

scanner, a trauma imaging stretcher and a LUCAS chest compression system for the Battlefords.

Battlefords Union Hospital (BUH) Foundation says the 2022 campaign surpassed its fundraising goal.

“This was my first capital campaign with BUH Foundation as Executive Director and it is very exciting to have surpassed our campaign goal and helped to make these purchases possible for our community,” said Leanne Ducommun, BUH Foundation executive director.

“Every dollar counts when raising funds and we are very grateful for the Battlefords and surrounding communities as they continue to answer the call and help support healthcare for their family, friends and neighbours.”

SASKTODAY.ca

“Every Minute Matters” fundraising campaign has reached $168,843, resulting in the purchase of two new LifePak 15 cardiac monitors/defibrillators, a bladder

The LifePak 15 cardiac monitors/defibrillators and bladder scanner purchased were replacement units for previous equipment that had reached their end of life. The LifePak 15 cardiac monitors/defibrillators monitor patients’ vital signs and cardiac rhythms, indicating if there are signs of distress and provides life-saving intervention if required. The bladder scanner allows for a less invasive procedure for

patients and increases comfort and efficiency of care, according to BUHF.

The trauma imaging stretcher and LUCAS chest compression system are new technology introduced to BUH. The trauma imaging stretcher reduces the need to have patients move from a stretcher and imaging table between the ED and Diagnostic Imaging units. The trauma imaging stretcher allows the digital detector plates for imaging to be placed within the stretcher, eliminating the need to physically transfer patients who are critically ill or unable to be moved. Arrival of the new trauma imaging stretcher is expected by the end of March.

The LUCAS chest compression system provides CPR compressions at the exact depth, speed and time required. This technology has proven to have better outcomes for those patients who have experienced cardiac arrest. Training has been completed for approximately 150 nursing staff at BUH.

The touring OSAC exhibition will leave the Battlefords March 26. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

LUCAS training with Ashley Etcheverry, clinical resource nurse. | Photos courtesy BUH Foundation

Mary Bautista with LifePak 15 cardiac monitor defibrillator in the emergency department.

$1.7M local improvement stopped by petition

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The Town of Wilkie will not be going forward with the five proposed local improvement projects that were the subject of discussion at the town’s Feb. 27 meeting.

The town told the NewsOptimist that a valid petition which includes signatures totalling 51 per cent of resident costs, and a majority of property owners was received. The town was then unable to pass

the bylaw to undertake the road paving, which was expected to cost over $1.7 million dollars, of which residents were expected to pay $800,000.

According to letters distributed to residents on 4th Street West, 5th Avenue, and 6th Avenue, with one such letter shown to the News-Optimist dated Jan. 20, residents were expected to pay 539.85 per metre.

One resident, Chantele Wiebe, who runs a daycare in Wilkie decided she would pursue her right to

submit a petition.

“The consensus was that if our community wanted to do this to improve our community, they needed to come up with a plan and timeline, because there is more than these streets that need to be done,” Wiebe said to the News-Optimist.

After receiving her own letter from the town, she and two other women decided to start the petition, getting 63 per cent of residents to sign, which included the monetary value of their property improve-

State of the City Address

Continued from Page 3

High-level discussions are currently being held with the province to see if the new campus building would be a provincialowned building or if it should be owned by a third party and leased to NWC and the province.

“As more people get educated, the more they are lifted from underemployment,” Gillan said, encouraging everyone to reach out to the provincial government and request that the government supports the NWC at a critical time in the discussion.

The economy

Moving to a discussion on economics, Gillan highlighted the effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on the city, citing fewer visitors, limits on attendance at recreational facilities and fewer people buying homes as examples.

“This council, our council came in at the height of

pandemic shutdown,” Gillan reminded people in his address, noting the city has joined the Battleford Chamber of Commerce as a nonvoting member to better engage with the interests of business in the Battlefords.

“The city has a vested interest in nurturing economic development.”

And to illustrate that, Gillan said the city has spent millions in recent years on downtown revitalization, enhancing the downtown core and retaining and attracting business. The city is also committed to working with and supporting regional tourism.

Recent projects have included:

• New Gas Plus, Mcdonalds and Petrocan;

• $16 million sewer upgrades to sustain an expanded population in the next few decades, expand on environmental protections and curb potential sewage spills;

• $400,000 lights at the Beaver LionStadium;

• $800,000 state-of-the art fire truck;

• Underground pipe and asphalt improvement of $24 million since 2015;

• Territorial Drive expansion with lights at Sobeys and Co-op;

• backup generator for Fairview water reservoir;

• investing in the smart water meters for $2.5 million with 5,000 meters to be installed;

• investing $600,000 to upgrade water pressure in Douglas Pearson area.

Gillan also spoke on the reality of the ageing nature of the Access Communications Centre and Don Ross Centre, noting the city is beginning to plan for their replacement with new facilities.

“This won’t be tomorrow, but it’s on the city’s radar, and it will certainly require the support and buy-in from our surround-

ments at $509,473.

“...we all felt that it was a public roadway. It’s not our roadway, so it should not be our responsibility. And that was the underlying thought process for everybody who was on board,” Wiebe said, adding that they had hoped for more signatures, but believes that empty lots and some residents not being home may have contributed to that.

“None of us were against improving our town, we just didn’t feel like we had to be the ones to pay for it, con-

ing communities and all levels of government.

“Finally, I want to speak about a community spirit project,” Gillan said, referencing the upgrade for the water tower set to be completed in 2023, with millions of different colour combinations to commemorate or celebrate specific days, weeks or months in recognition of inclusivity or significant occasions.

Thanking the residents of North Battleford for their patience during COVID-19, and unprecedented times, saying, “our council had some very difficult decisions to make during COVID-19, decisions we didn’t want to be making. Both with the public accessing our facilities, but also with our own staff and management.”

Gillan said the city’s balance sheet is strong, is able to meet all obligations when due, the reserves for future projects are all cash funded, and the audits remain clean.

“That being said, we

sidering everybody drives on it,” Wiebe said.

In some cases, residents were expected to pay anywhere in the $8,000 to $26,000 range, depending on where they lived.

“We feel like the town council needs to be a little more realistic and have a little more common sense when it comes to a community effort. Of course, everyone is going to be upset if the whole community has to pay $500 more a year on taxes for so many years, but it’s being a part of the com-

have seen some rather high tax and utility increases over the last few years. However, most of the rather large increase over the last few years have been, to a great extent, beyond the control of administration or council,” Gillan said, referencing the recent RCMP unionization, reduced provincial operating grants, and unprecedented inflation.

Gillan added that the city has been making significant investments, contributing to the rise of taxes.

“No one likes raising taxes and fees, including me. However, I can assure you these increases were necessary to get major projects done…and also necessary to leverage and attract grant funding, which save the residents of North Battleford millions of dollars.

“Our council has always been transparent and willing to make the necessary investments that we believe will position our city, and your city for long-term sustainable growth, prosperity,

munity, it’s what you do.”

Wiebe said that the Town of Wilkie wasn’t disappointed, as they understood it was likely going to happen. She believes that the town must wait another year before attempting local improvement again.

“I guess the town council is going to have to reevaluate … we’re hoping that common sense prevails and hopefully they’ve heard enough people say that it should be a community effort and not just a personal effort.”

and quality of life for our residents.

“This sometimes means raising taxes beyond what some people will see as reasonable. However, it will only burden the next council with more expense if we do not invest today, at today’s cost.”

In closing, Gillan said he believes that although there are challenges, the City of North Battleford also has opportunities.

“What is my assessment of the state of the city? I can honestly say we are not perfect, but what municipality or organization is perfect? The most important point is that we are continuously striving to improve, and we are improving, and we are trending in the right direction. Let’s all be optimistic.

“You elected the seven of us on the council to represent you back in 2020. I truly believe we have worked very hard since that time to improve the inclusivity and quality of life in our city, and the region as a whole.”

Celebrating 225 years of business commitment

By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

Join in the spirit and fun of St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow. You will notice some additional green gear and decorations around town as people get on board for the day’s celebrations.

The annual Celebrate Unity gala event recognized 225 years of business commitment to our community, along with introducing new businesses, new doctors, new managers and longtime years of service in new retirees. John Gottschalk, who served more than 50 years with Compass Minerals was acknowledged. Dusan Maljan was given a rousing standing ovation for his 63 years of service and friendship in downtown Unity. The Press-Herald was also awarded an exemplary service award for their commitment to local news and reporting as well as their adaptation throughout the pandemic to continue providing a paper, even though very little was taking place in town.

Unity Composite High School curlers have concluded their season with double gold medals at junior district championships, as well as the senior high girls earning silver at regional championships in Langham.

UCHS girls’ basketball raised $1,482 at their pink game weekend, earmarked

for breast cancer research.

Unity wrestlers have advanced to provincials after successful wins at regional competition in Meadow Lake. Provincials will take place March 17 in Regina.

Fitness Lair celebrates their 10th anniversary this weekend with an event for members and invited guests. Owner Lindsay Barber started the idea of CrossFit in town starting out upstairs in Bluez and moved the business four times to allow for expansion and increased membership. Congratulations on seeing this dream through to reality. The Lair has been part of a number of community initiatives including fundraising for various charities through their activity and helping build athletes that have seen success at a number of provincial and national competitions.

Stand Out Dance Collective will hold its showcase of solos and duets March 19

A “Using a Cellphone” workshop is being hosted at Unity Public School March 22 where senior students at UPS will be offering one-on-one instruction.

Parkview Place is hosting a giant indoor garage sale and bake sale to help fund its activities programming.

Unity Music Festival is fast approaching with the event slated for March 2730 and the final perform-

ance showcase April 2.

Unity Curling Club hosts darts and games nights Tuesdays at the UCC lounge.

The Unity spring trade show is being organized for May 6.

The town office is now accepting addresses for the town-wide garage sale May 12, 13 and 14 or contact Valerie Middleton for details.

Unity Skating Club and the community owe gratitude to Canskate coach Colleen Smith, who is retiring from Canskate coaching after serving 25 years. Smith will continue as the senior skating coach, alongside Michelle Brown-McLean.

Minor ball players and coaches are in limbo as they await the end of rink season to start conditioning indoors until they are able to get on the diamonds. It won’t be long before we will be hearing those bats cracking and fans cheering at the diamonds.

Unity’s minor soccer program is now accepting registrations for their season in May and June. You can emailunitysoccerclub@outlook.com for more details.

At Unity Public School, students got to reap the benefits of their Telemiracle fundraising challenge of raising a $1,000 or more for the provincial charity. Once that goal was achieved students got to

“torture the teacher” with principal Mrs. Brown and vice-principal, Mr. Gienei participating. If students raised more than $2,000, which they exceeded by $7, school secretary, Mrs. Ralston also offered herself up for the sacrifice, making for a fun afternoon celebrating their successes.

Oratory night at St. Peter’s School is always an anticipated event and will take place on March 15, with all families invited to attend.

If you are looking for exciting live playoff hockey action, neighbouring communities of Wilkie and Macklin are vying for the SWHL championship in a best-offive series that began March 10, complete schedule listed on the league’s website.

Two hundred and twenty-five years of business was recognized by the Unity Chamber of Commerce at the March 6 Celebrate Unity event that marked several milestone business anniversaries that started from 25 years all the way up to 60 years. | Photo by Sherri Solomko

Unity-Wilkie Press-Herald staff of Sherri Solomko, Jackie Boser and Tim Holtorff were acknowledged at Celebrate Unity for providing exemplary service during the COVID-19 pandemic. | Photo courtesy of Helena Long

Maidstone and District News

Impressive poetry recital by Grade 7 students

Carrie when she and Jessie belonged to Girl Guides. Carrie and Jeff just married last year and it’s devastating for their family to lose so much. To find out what is most needed, check out “Walter Family Fundraising group” organized by Krystal Rose Cooper on Facebook (where you’ll also find several sub-fundraisers and information on an upcoming silent auction). A GoFundMe account has been set up “The Walter Family” organized by Krystal Vanderstelt.

By Kathy Utri

held at Maidstone Legion Hall March 16 at 2 p.m.

It was sad also to hear of two former locals whose homes were destroyed by fire recently. Sheila Lamont and Val Harris lost their house near Raymore Feb. 18. Sheila was raised in the Dry Gully district and attended high school in Maidstone. Sheila and the late Wayne Harris have lived on the farm for 42 years, raising their family and cattle. Sheila is the librarian at Raymore. A GoFundMe account has been set up “Val Harris/Sheila Lamont/Red Willow Farm” or send donations to the town office in Raymore for a tax receipt.

Carrie and Jeff Walter and children, Waylon, and Eric, Jack and Jessie Cutsforth lost their home and contents near Colonsay March 9. Carrie lived in Maidstone for several years, working and volunteering throughout the community. I worked with

Thirty-five Grade 7 students put on an impressive poetry recital for an overflow crowd March 7 in Maidstone High School library. Guests were entertained with a variety of poems, all by memory and with personal props. Students then served cookies they had made and guests were invited to peruse their poetry booklets.

Maidstone High School senior girls hosted their basketball conference final on March 11, taking a loss by one point to Macklin in overtime. They’re off to Wilkie this weekend for regionals.

Talance Stapleton won a bronze medal on March 12 at the Junior Nationals in Caledon, Ont. She placed fourth on Friday in single moguls but on Saturday, Talance missed the podium in aerials by 0.85 points. She did well with her back pike trick and was happy with fourth place. In dual moguls, she lost the semifinal to go into the gold medal final by only one point but went on to win her dual against a girl from Quebec.

Maidstone’s Synchro skaters were in Regina last weekend for a competition. The adult team (over 18) won silver medals and the juniors placed fourth out of five teams. The junior team is comprised of girls ages 13 to 18, with three from Lashburn and eight from Maidstone.

District 4-H public speaking took place in Hillmond March 12, host-

ed by Maidstone Gully

Multiple 4-H Club. Winners were: CloverbudsAustin Charbonneau from Hillmond; juniors – Elise Koch from Manitou Lake; intermediates – Hanna Hougham from Hillmond; and seniors – Allison Lepp from Durness Multi. These members move on to regionals in Meadow Lake March 25. Provincials will be held in Lloydminster at the Vic Juba Community Theatre April 15.

Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club have received the results for their 2022 regional record book entries. Amanda Kaminski placed first in seniors and her record book goes on to Provincials. Jacob Gerlinsky placed third in Cloverbuds.

Hockey results:

U11 Maidstone A finals - Team 1 lost in the final game to Meadow Lake 8-6.

U13 Maidstone Jets won both games against Edam in STEP league playoffs: 5-4 March 7 and 5-1 March 13. They advance to A championship round (opponent has not been determined yet).

U13 C Provincials northern final: Maidstone won 7-3 against Outlook.

U15 Maidstone round 2 of playoffs: Spiritwood won over Maidstone 6-5 on March 10. Game 2 is March 14 (after my deadline).

Milleton Community

Hall is having a Spring Fling Dance Saturday, April 1 starting at 8 p.m. with DJ SuiciDoll Sound. All ages are welcome – minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Midnight lunch will be served. DD services by The Kin Club of Maidstone. Age 13 and up $20, six to 12 $10, and five and under free.

An Easter Family Dance will be hosted by The Kin Club of Maidstone Thursday, April 6 at Maidstone Legion Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dance at 7 p.m. Family $25, age10+/adult $10, age five to nine $5, and under five free. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

This year Lashburn Day will be June 10. It kicks off with a parade and is a full slate of fun activities and sales. They’re currently looking for vendors. Email townoflashburn.carmen@ sasktel.net for vendor forms.

Dates to remember:

March 17 Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Tea, Friday 2 to 4 p.m. at Pine Island Suites.

March 18 and 19 Glitter

On Ice Skating Carnival, Saturday 7 p.m., Sunday 1:30 p.m. at Maidstone Ice Arena.

March 25 Trivia Fun Night, Sat. 7 p.m. at Maidstone Bowling Alley (with Maidstone Disc Golf).

Medal winners at a junior national skiing competition in Caledon, Ont. are Tatum Kennedy, Ontario (gold), Vicky Roblain, Quebec (silver) and Talance Stapleton, Saskatchewan (bronze).

Maidstone High School Grade 7 students performed in a poetry recital March 7.

| Photos submitted by Kathy Utri

VANNORTWICK: Anne VanNortwick January 17, 1931 – March 5, 2023

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts the family announce the passing of Anne VanNortwick of Battlefords District Care Center and formerly of Mayfair, Sk. on March 5, 2023, at the age of 92. Left to cherish her memory: Son - Ron, SonNorm (Jackie) & Family, Daughter - Charlene (Lionel) & Family, 6 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren, Brother - Hans(Blanche) Wantje & Family, Sister - Rosemarie(Ken) Byers & Family, Sister-in-law - Joyce Glass & Family, Many other nieces, nephews, relatives & dear friends. Predeceased by her husband Earl. Funeral to be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 2 p.m. Territorial Drive Alliance Church Arrangements entrusted to Dalmeny Funeral Home, Dalmeny, SK

ZEREBESKI: It is with heavy hearts our family announces the passing of Edward P Zerebeski (EP) from Krydor SK. on March 8, 2023 at the age of 81 years. Survived by brother Ron (Christina) Zerebeski, sister Marj Pettigrew (Bernie) numerous nieces, nephews and best friend Sharron. Predeceased by his parents: Peter & Olga Zerebeski; sister, Adeline Way and brothers-in-law: Stan Way, Sandy Pettigrew. Funeral services will be held March 18, 2023 at 1:30 pm at Orlow Church. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Spirit Ukrainian Catholic Church, Orlow, Sk. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

In Loving

Memory of

Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and Brother.

Looking for Vendors! Fort Qu’Appelle Spring Trade Show, April 22nd and 23rd, 2023. Please contact Tammy at 306-728-5690 or accounts@grasslandsnews.ca for more information. Or you can download the brochure at www.forttradeshow.com

FOR

SALE BY

TENDER West Central Pelleting ltd is aCCePting bids for the folloWing:

1998 TEREX TB85

Harold Bullock passed away March 20th 2022 is forever missed by wife Mona, Daughter Monica (Laurie) and family, son Lloyd (Karen) and family, sister Vera Nalliere Forever loved and sadly missed by Mona Bullock.

61st DRAGGINS CAR SHOWApril 7 and 8 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon. Check out the “Battle of the Automotive Technicians”!. Draggins Rod & Custom Car Club. Visit our website; Draggins.com.

SELF PROPELLED MANLIFT

Located at 100 Bruce Saunders Way, Wolseley, SK. Unit will be sold as is where is Successful bidder will be responsible for all costs and arrangements for the removal from property. Highest or any offer not necessarily accepted Closing date for bids is: MarCh 31, 2023 Bids can be submitted to danwcp@sasktel. net For more info contact Dan at 306-918-7908

WATERHOUSE: On March 10, Nolys Waterhouse (nee Jones) died peacefully at the age of 92. In her final days, her children and grandchildren surrounded her. Nolys was married to Robert Waterhouse and they farmed just outside of North Battleford. Robert predeceased Nolys in 1991. She was the mother of four children, eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. David Waterhouse and daughters Robyn Tarasoff (Brent), Jodie Huber (Mike) their children Tyler, Wylee and Kyle. Susan Petrie and daughter Erica. Chris Waterhouse (Pam) their sons Jason and his son Britton, Kyle, and daughter Krystal Blatz(Kenton) and their children Aubrey, Emmery and Henry. Leanne Smith (Carl), daughter Amy Shipley (Mike), their daughters Izzy and Roxy, Tiffany Smith (Dominik Tomaszewski) their daughters Taylor and Morgan. Her family affectionately knew her as GG. She was a member of the 3rd Avenue United Church for many years, where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and was a member of the United Church Women’s Fellowship. She believed that when she passed she would be reunited with her husband Robert, her parents Otis and Mary Jane Jones, her siblings Maurice Jones, Vivian Dart, Margaret Mills and Harold Jones and granddaughter Nicole Waterhouse. The last 2 years Nolys lived at the Battleford’s District Care Centre. She always said, “They treat me very well here”. The support of Home Care allowed Nolys to live in her own home for much longer. The family thanks both staff for their exceptional care. She was deeply loved and will be missed by family and friends. Funeral services will be held Friday March 17 at 2:00 p.m. at Third Avenue United Church

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Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

ONLINE AUCTION FOR THE SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE CROWN LAND SALE

Online Bidding ends Over TwO ClOsing daTes

Tuesday, March 21 & Thursday, March 23, 2023

The spring 2023 sale consists of 56 parcels of land, or 7,329 acres split into 40 lots. Land parcels located in RM #001 through #350 will be scheduled to close on March 21. Parcels located in the RM #351 and higher will be scheduled to close on March 23 online auction.

Contact Our Real Estate Department

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of JOHN, JAMES ILLINGWORTH 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 10th day of April, 2023.

Matrix Law Group 1421 - 101st Street North Battleford Saskatchewan S9A 1A1

Brent M. Illingworth

battlefords humane society

I am a gentle giant that loves having my paw

HOUSE FOR SALE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of IDA PFEIFER late of Edmonton, Alberta, 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 April, 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 Ida Pfeifer.

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

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

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca

www.sellyourfarm land.com

Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll

R.M. of Meota No. 468

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Assessor of the municipality, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST, Monday to Friday inclusive, except Statutory holidays, until April 19, 2023.

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been mailed as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal his or her assessment is required to submit his or her notice of appeal accompanied by the prescribed fee for each assessment being appealed, within 30 days after the date of mailing of the notice to: Secretary of the Board of Revision

Western Municipal Consulting Box 149 Meota, Sask. S0M 1X0

Dated at Meota, Saskatchewan, March 17, 2023.

Kirk Morrison

Assessor

The Rural Municipality of Redberry No. 435 is inviting offers for the sale of a house on 101 Railway Avenue West, Hafford, Saskatchewan.

The last day for accepting tenders is Monday, April 10th, 2023.

Please contact the RM Office at 306-549-2333 for further information.

Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 Box 80 Meota, Sask. S0M 1X0

4 QUARTERS of LAND FOR SALE by Owner R.M. #76

NE 10-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $98,780

SE 15-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $101,475 NE 14-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $113,090 NW 14-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $89,320 YARDSITE ON HOME 1/4 NE 14-07-10

Consists of house, quanset, corrals, garage & bins Contact Ritchie Pilgrim 306-620-9831 or pilgrimritchie @gmail.com

Turn Key Condo for sale, superior condition, Killdeer Court, Many Upgrades. Appliances included, like new condition. Asking $169,000 Call 306-441-8244

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX

Village of Edam NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Edam for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor, by appointment only from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the following days: Tuesday to Friday, March 17 to April 21, 2023. Please call the office at 306-397-2223 or email edamvill@sasktel.net to make an appointment.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person wishing to discuss the Notice of Assessment or potential appeal may contact the Assessor at the Village of Edam, Box 203, Edam, SK S0M 0V0, phone 306-397-2223. A Notice of Appeal, accompanied by a $200.00 fee for each assessment being appealed must be filed with The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Marlene Hassard, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota, SK. S0M 1X0

Dated this 16th day of March, 2023.

Pamela M Dallyn Assessor

Community Safety and Crime Prevention GET INVOLVED!

Men have a responsibility to stop male violence against women.

A message from the Canada Safety Council

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF ROUND VALLEY NO. 410 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The R.M. of Round Valley No. 410 is accepting applications for the following position: Full Time Equipment/Maintenance worker

Preference to applicants with:

• Heavy Equipment Experience

• Valid drivers license and dean driving record (Class 1 preferred)

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a team

This position offers competitive wages based on experience and a benefit package is available.

Interested individuals should submit their resume including a Driver’s Abstract, qualifications. work experience, three references and wage expectations by mail, email, or fax by 12:00 (noon), Friday March 31, 2023.

Approximate start date May 1, 2023.

Rhonda Brandle, Administrator

R.M. of Round Valley No. 410

Box 538

Unity, Saskatchewan

S0X 4L0

Email: rm410@sasktel.net

Phone: (306)228-2248

Fax: (306)228-3483

The R.M. thanks all those who apply, however, only these selected for an interview will be contacted.

Borden and District News

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

Langham seniors host supper, entertainment

The entertainment was Salt Water Joy Band from Saskatoon and Cudworth –Ken Downie (Nova Scotia) on guitar, Donna Lepitzki playing fiddle and button accordion, her husband Ray Lepitzki played guitar and mandolin and Kenneth Megycsi on bass guitar.

Salt Water Joy entertained when Langham seniors hosted area clubs March 11. Members of the band are Ken Downie, Donna Lepitzki, Ray Lepitzki and Kenneth Megycsi. | Photo by Lorraine Olinyk

Licensed Pest Control Officer Wanted

The R.M. of Eldon No. 471 is accepting applications for a “Licensed Pest Control Officer”.

Interested individuals to submit resumes with 3 references and remuneration expected no later than 12:00 noon, March 30, 2023 to:

R.M. of Eldon No. 471

212 Main Street P.O. Box 130 Maidstone, SK S0M 1M0

Fax: 306-893-4644

Email: rm471@sasktel.net

Information on licensure and duties available at www.spcoa.org Saskatchewan Pest Control Officers Association website. Only those applicants being interviewed will be contacted.

REQUIRED

IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp this winter with possibility of year round. Winter location: Arborfield, SK. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food and handling ticket. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS: needed this winter for dozers, excavators, rock trucks: near Carrot River, Sk. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d.

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

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

North West College Full-Time, Term,Accounting Clerk

BattlefordsCampus

Posting #82-BC-2223

Reporting to the Controllerthis position is responsible for effective and timely processing of the College’s financial transactions in the discharge of College obligations and the accounting for assets.

Apply to this position if you enjoy a faced paced environment that promotes lifelong learning and supporting the success of our students.

Compensation: $26.21 per hour, with an excellent benefitspackage. Term: ASAP-September 27, 2024.

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

Applicationswill be received until Noon on March 20, 2023. NWC thanks all those who applied, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. www.northwestcollege.ca

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

Winning the Borden Lions Chase the Ace in week 3 was Justin Bisson of Borden, who pocketed $91 for the weekly draw. The ace of spades was not picked, so the jackpot keeps growing. The draw is made every Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Roadside Inn and you can do an e-transfer tobordenlionsraffle@gmail.com at $5 a ticket.

More than 70 members of the Borden and Radisson seniors’ clubs travelled to Langham on March 11,

where the Langham Seniors’ Club hosted t supper and entertainment, with, more than 150 in attendance. The 50/50 of $255 was won by Peter Thiessen of Borden and door prizes went to Laura Loeppky (Borden Club) of Saskatoon and Barb Clancy of Langham.

The tables were decorated with teapots, doilies and other items. Clues were read about the table decorations to determine which table went up to eat. Lynda Gossen read some poems or stories about teapots during the program.

Borden and Radisson thanked Langham for the great meal and wonderful entertainment.

Borden Community Centre Preservation Committee is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day luncheon Friday, March 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. serving soup, stew, bread and desserts, by donation. Celtic Country will be entertaining. The funds are to buy new flooring for the community centre.

Saturday, March 18, the Borden Lions are hosting the district governor for supper and entertainment along with inducting the new members into the club. On Sunday, the Borden Farmers’ Market is holding its annual meeting in the Borden Friendship Club Room at 2 p.m.

From the Pastor’s Desk

By David L. Walker Turtleford Baptist Church

We had a great GGMH hymn sing Feb. 26. With 29 in attendance, we had some first-timers and as promised gave out several pens in black felt pouches. Can children come? Yes, we do a children’s song with actions if any children are present.

If you are new to this write-up and perhaps wonder what “GGMH” is, the acronym stands for “Gather Gospel Music Hour”

(although as it grows that hour is more like an hour and a half) We gather on the last Sunday of every month at 6 p.m. at the

Rural Municipality of Battle River #438

Seasonal Grader Operator & Maintenance Position

The Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 is looking for a person to fill the position of seasonal grader operator & municipal maintenance.

Please submit a resume stating experience, references & expected wage, which is negotiable. Only those requested to attend an interview will be notified of Council’s decision. Submit Resume to:

Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 Box 159, Battleford, Sask.. S0M 0E0

Email: rm438@sasktel.net

Deadline for submission: March 22nd , 2023

For more information call: (306) 937-2235

Sincerely

Betty Johnson Administrator

Turtleford Baptist Church 314 Railway Ave. We sing hymns, gospel songs and even country and Western gospel, followed by a lunch in the lower auditorium. In February we had a favourite, tacos in a bag. Everyone is welcome and if you come you will be asked if you would like to sing or play. There is no pressure and you can just sit back and relax if you like. We understand that not everyone likes music, but those who do, like it a lot.

District minister Matthew Teigrob was with us March 12. He brought the morning message “What Is The Church supposed to be like.” Following the morning worship service, we shared lunch. A plaque honouring Madeleine Conacher for more than 50 years of faithful service to TBC was hung in the foyer beside two other prominent former members.

April 9, we are having an Easter sunrise breakfast at 9 a.m. Followed by an 11 a.m. worship service. You are welcome to join us. There is no charge. This breakfast will be hosted by four of the men from TBC.

We feel this is very important, especially in light of Hebrews 10 v. 25: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Until next month, remember we serve a risen Lord and Saviour.

Prayer connects us to God’s will for our lives

The season of lent reminds us of the praying example of Jesus in his living and dying.

Jesus showed us our need to be His people of prayer. Jesus repeatedly prayed, strengthening his oneness with the will of God, His Father.

He prayed and accepted His Father’s will even when it meant his sacrificial death for sinners on the cross.

Jesus taught about praying with these words:

Matthew 6:5-8 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others.

Truly I tell you, they

N

eighbourly

Advice According to Ed

By Raymond Maher www.accordingtoed.com

have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen.

Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they

will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Prayer has been described as inviting God into our circumstances, into our hopes, into our fears, into our dreams and into our pain. Prayer is not working our way

through a grocery list of requests that we desire God to perform or answer the way we expect. Instead, prayer allows us to live relationally with God.

Relationally means talking to God, listening to God, and thinking about God throughout our day.

Prayer is speaking to God in words and thoughts. We can pray anywhere with simple “Please prayers,” “Thank you prayers” and “Sorry prayers.”

When we pray, remember it is crucial to think of the character of God. For we know God is love and He wants the best for us.

In his wisdom, God knows what is best for us

and gives it to us in his almighty power. Therefore, in Jesus’s name, we should pray regularly and frequently.

But unfortunately, we may only pray when we are in trouble.

When the time for Jesus’s arrest and crucifixion drew near, He prayed. But sadly, his disciples failed to stay awake as Jesus prayed about His imminent death.

Matthew 26:36-41

“Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, ‘Sit here while I go over there to pray.’

“He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.

“Then he said to them, ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’

“Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me.

“Yet not as I will, but as you will.’ Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. ‘Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?’ he asked Peter. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Meota and District News

Shuffleboard tourney draws 20 players

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

Twenty contestants played their hearts out at the shuffleboard tournament in the Do Drop In March 11 and all had a great time under the leadership of Arlene Walker, as Nestor was away. A few new faces were on hand, which makes the event a time to meet and greet your neighbours.

Every player had three games with their partner. Top score of 66 went to David Sayers and Carol Dyck, second place with a score of 58 were Gail Hilderman and Linda Ard and third place with a score of 56 were Stella Rendel and Larry Dyck. A delicious potluck luncheon was enjoyed at noon and coffee was on all day. Many other games were played throughout the day, passing the time between shuffleboard games.

The film shown and enjoyed at the Do Drop

In March 6, was the fascinating story of the life of

World Day of Prayer, composed by women in Taiwan, was hosted by the Meota United Anglican Church at the Do Drop In. | Courtesy Trudy Janssens

polar bears in the Hudson Bay area of Canada. About a dozen folks attended and enjoyed coffee and popcorn on the side. We appreciate the work Bob and Vivianne Lesko put in to host these films, Bridge was played at the Pioneer Hall March 7, with three tables. Top score was by Linda Ard and Cletus Scherman followed by Barbara Mitchell and Albert Blais. The game on March

9 with three tables again, saw top score go to Margaret Dyck and Dave Creegan . Tied for second and third were Jeannine Beloin and Jean Lawes along with Catriona Winterholt and Donna Scherman.

Canasta was played at the Do Drop In March 10, with two tables of four and one of six. High score of the two tables was Linda Ard and David Sayers followed by Arlene Walker

and Vivianne Lesko.

Fresh baking is available for your Easter table from Edam Manor kitchen March 17 – Home-baked apple and cherry pies, three kinds of cookies and homemade buns are offered. Phone 306-397-3000 for more information and to order.

Spiritwood is holding another two nights of “Grand Ole Opry” entertainment March 31 and April 1, in their Civic Centre. Watch for posters of former entertainers and some new ones. The proceeds go to community projects.

World Day of Prayer in Meota

(Submitted by Trudy Janssens)

Planning and hosting the 2023 World Day of Prayer in Meota was a rewarding experience, but it did come with its challenges. As a result, the

Earning top scores at the Do Drop In shuffleboard tournament March 11 were David Sayers, Carol Dyck, Gail Hilderman, Linda Ard, Stella Rendel and Larry Dyck. |

organizers needed to take a breather before reporting on how it went. World Day of Prayer is always held on the first Friday in March. This year Shirley Ward and Trudy Janssens, who are with the Meota United Anglican Church, invited everyone to the Do Drop In. The women of Taiwan, wrote the service and our local readers followed along with a supplied PowerPoint presentation. The information came on a USB stick, which unfortunately arrived in Meota just days before the event. Fortunately, the equipment was in place at the Do Drop In and no one was even aware of the stress that led up to the event. Prayers were answered for the organizers. Numbers were down but the spirit of the event was wonderful. We look forward to exploring Palestine next year.

Ready to Set Sail Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail annual general meeting was held via Zoom March 12. 2023 promises to be an exciting summer. MLPS is planning a major fundraiser at the Meota Community Complex June 17. Details to follow. Sailing lessons are being planned for July 4 to 8. There will be youth and adult classes. As soon as all the details are finalized, registrations will be accepted on the Sask. Sailing Association website. Annual membership fees are due and existing members are encouraged to renew early to ensure a kayak storage berth. It’s only $200 for a family membership and $125 for an individual. Online registration will be available very shortly. Details to follow.

Photo submitted by Lorna Pearson

World Sleep Day, which takes place on March 19, is an annual opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of sleep. It’s also an ideal time to change your habits (and perhaps your mattress) so that you can enjoy more restful nights. If you still need convincing, here are four reasons you should prioritize getting a good night’s sleep.

1. TO IMPROVE YOUR PRODUCTIVITY

A lack of sleep can affect everything from your reflexes to your creativity. If you want to be able to think clearly, maintain your concentration, make good decisions and work more efficiently throughout the day, a good night’s sleep is key.

2. TO IMPROVE YOUR MOOD

Stress is easier to manage if you’re well-rested. Getting enough sleep can also help reduce or prevent symptoms of depression and anxiety. Plus, you’re more likely to have positive interactions with others if you aren’t tired and irritable.

3. TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Your body can’t function without sleep. In fact, not getting enough shut-eye increases your risk of high-blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other health issues. Contrarily, good sleep habits can help bolster your immune system.

4. TO IMPROVE YOUR SEX LIFE

A lack of sleep reduces your body’s production of hormones such as testos terone, which can lead to a loss of libido. The stress and negative emotions that come with being tired don’t help either.

Keep in mind that adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. If insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome or any other sleep disorder is preventing you from getting the rest you need, be sure to consult your doctor.

TIPS FOR BETTER SLEEP

• Invest in a comfortable mattress and quality bedding

• Only use your bed for sleeping and having

• Wake up and go to bed at the same time every

• Avoid being active in the evening and limit your caffeine intake

• Eliminate all sources of light in your bedroom

4 great reasons to get a good night’s sleep