Regional News-Optimist March 4, 2021 by Battlefords News Optimist

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Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Ice situation unprecedented: Cochin mayor

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Major damage on shoreline By John Cairns Staff Reporter

It is an unprecedented situation at Jackfish Lake. The Resort Village of Cochin has seen extensive damage due to ice from the lake being pushed up onto the shoreline and into people’s property across the village. The damage is “significant and extensive,” said Mayor Harvey Walker of the Resort Village of Co-

chin Tuesday. Walker said there is damage and destruction to decks, boat lifts, outbuildings and also to residences being pushed off their foundations. The shoreline — meaning the sand, dirt and rock along the shore — has in some spots been pushed up as high as seven or eight feet. Walker says that for the first time in the memory of anyone he’s been able to talk to that the ice cap on

Here is a look at the shoreline of Jackfish Lake along Hunt’s Cove in Cochin, which has seen some major damage in recent weeks due to ice pushed up on the shoreline. Photo by John Cairns

the lake has spread horizontally, pushing ice onto the west shore of the village. Usually in a normal year, once the weather warms up the ice expands by creating an ice ridge or ice jack out on the lake, with the ice shoved up vertically. But because of the high water level over last summer, and extensive severe winds from the west, the “shoreline and the lake bottom near the shore were eroded, resulting in water being deeper at the shoreline than in normal years.” In a normal year, the shoreline would be shallow and the ice would form and stick to the bottom of the lake. But this year, there was “water left under the ice after the ice cap was formed along the edge of the lake, so when the weather got warm, rather than relieving the pressure vertically it relieved the pressure horizontally.” The result is ice being shoved up onto the shoreline. There is also concern Continued on Page 3

Ben Christensen and his quilt headed out Saturday, his last day of work at Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear in North Battleford. After more than 45 years with the store, Christensen has retired. He bought in as a partner in 1980 when coowner Bill Wheeldon retired. The quilt is made of all his favourite ties and had been on display at the store, but it’s gone home with him now. See the story inside. Photo submitted

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Page 2 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Alleged gang member remains in custody several separate incidents. She was denied bail in January. In February the Crown said they continue to oppose her release. Cantel has been in custody at Pinegrove Correctional Centre for women in Prince Albert since her arrest in November 2020. In the November 2020 incident, where

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

A North Battleford woman and alleged Westside gang member had court appearances scheduled in Lloydminster and Meadow Lake Provincial Courts and the matters were adjourned. Tonia Cantel, 22, is charged in connection to

Call for Expressions of Interest

Cantel and four others allegedly took police on a 150-kilomtre, two-hour chase, she is charged with theft of a vehicle, storing a prohibited firearm, four counts of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, two counts of carrying a concealed weapon, possessing a firearm without a license, being in a vehicle with an unauthorized firearm, possessing a prohibited firearm with accessible ammunition without registration, possession of

a firearm with an altered serial number, endangering the safety of the public and flight from police. For those charges Cantel had an appearance scheduled in Lloydminster Provincial Court on Feb. 23 and the matter was adjourned. In that incident, police also arrested Juanita Wahpistikwin, Kyle Lajimodiere and two young offenders who can’t be named in accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Earlier this

month, Wahpistikwin was sentenced to 18 months in jail for her part in that incident. Lajimodiere’s trial is set for June 29 and 30, 2021, in Lloydminster Provincial Court. Cantel also has charges out of Big River including aggravated assault, operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm, robbery, and possession of property obtained by crime. For those charges she had an appearance scheduled in Pierceland Circuit Court on Feb. 16.

By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

The City is now calling for Expressions of Interest from individuals who may have an interest in sitting on the Board.

A Mosquito First Nation woman arrested by the North Battleford RCMP gang unit was scheduled to enter a plea Monday but instead asked the court for an adjournment. Rae Ahenakew, 40, appeared in North Battleford Provincial Court by phone on Feb. 22 and asked that her matter be adjourned to March 8. Ahenakew and three others were arrested last September during a traffic stop in North Battleford on

The following individuals are not eligible: • A tenant in a Housing Authority managed rental unit, • Someone related to a current Board member, the Housing Authority Manager or a Housing Authority employee, and • Someone currently employed by the City of North Battleford, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, or Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Interested individuals should submit an Expression of Interest in the form of a Letter outlining education, work and volunteer experience as well as any other information that may be relevant. Deadline for submission is March 15, 2021. Submit by email to Mayor@cityofnb.ca

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Railway Avenue. According to Sgt. Adam Buckingham from the Battlefords General Investigation Section, the North Battleford Gang Task Force initiated a traffic stop on two vehicles after they noticed the occupants appeared to be interacting with one another. Police didn’t specify what the interaction was but say one of the occupants was known to police and had an outstanding arrest warrant. Police noticed weapons in one of the vehicles and

arrested the four occupants from both vehicles. They searched the vehicles and found a firearm, a Taser, weapons, cocaine, meth and marijuana. Ahenakew is charged with possession of cocaine and meth for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a firearm in a vehicle, and obstructing a police officer. Shynia Skeavington, 24, of Mosquito First Nation, is charged with possession of cocaine and meth for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a

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firearm in a vehicle, three counts of failing to comply with a probation order, two counts of failing to comply with conditions of a release order, and two counts of possession of a weapon. Skeavington appears next in court on March 17. Matthew Greer, 34, of Biggar, is charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and operation of a vehicle while prohibited. Greer had an appearance in North Battleford Provincial Court on Feb. 22. Desiree Hinse, 24, of Biggar, pleaded guilty in North Battleford Provincial Court on Feb. 8, 2021, to carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a prohibited weapon, obstruction of a peace officer, unlawful possession of a substance, driving while prohibited, and failing to comply with conditions. Hinse will be sentenced on March 22.

For more court news see Page 14

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The charges against Cantel haven’t been proven in court. She is now scheduled to appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on March 9. If you are associated with a gang and want to leave it, contact STR8 UP in northern Saskatchewan at 306-763-3001, STR8 UP in central Saskatchewan at 306-244-1771, or Regina Treaty Status Indian Services in southern Saskatchewan at 306-522-7494 to get assistance.

Woman arrested by gang unit asks for more time to get lawyer

The City of North Battleford is a partner with the Province of Saskatchewan regarding the Battlefords Housing Authority. As such, from time to time, the City of North Battleford appoints Directors to the Board of the Battlefords Housing Authority. Initial appointments are for three years, subsequent appointments for two years. This is a volunteer board.

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Prominent photographer Menno Fieguth dies

Committee struck for memorial policy By John Cairns Staff Reporter

As expected, North Battleford council has approved setting up a short term policy committee to develop a city-wide comprehensive memorial policy. The committee will consist of two council members and two members of administration, with the goal of developing the policy that would be brought back to council by July 2021 for approval. Mayor David Gillan and Councillor Kelli Hawtin have agreed to be the council representatives on the committee. For administration, the

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

committee will include Director of Parks and Recreation Cheryl DeNeire and there is be one more representative to be named, likely to be one of the city planners. The committee’s formation was prompted by a request to honour the late NHL player Colby Cave with a memorial and a street naming near the Access Communications Centre. The plan is to come up with a comprehensive policy where the city can honour individuals. “I think we’re all in agreement to move forward with this,” was the comment from Mayor David Gillan. The motion carried unanimously.

Ice situation at Cochin unprecedented Continued from Page 1 about what could happen when it warms up even more. Walker said that once the ice cap becomes a floating entity on the lake, “it’s going to exacerbate the entire situation.” Walker said he has been in touch with their MLA for Cut KnifeTurtleford, Ryan Domotor, to intervene with the province to seek disaster relief. The mayor said Domotor has been in touch with the minister’s office and was hoping for a quick response. An issue that has emerged is that the disaster relief program doesn’t contemplate this kind of event, but Walker said “we’re asking the provincial government on our own and through Ryan Domotor to change the

regulations to allow relief for this event.” The Resort Village is encouraging residents to be in touch with the Premier’s Office on the situation. As for removing the ice from their properties, residents will need to get an emergency permit from the Water Security Agency to remove ice from the shoreline. If they get that permit from the WSA to remove ice (not including removing rock, sand or stone etc.) the Resort Village will then automatically issue a development permit to allow that to happen. If residents seek to do more than remove the ice, such as removing the rock, sand or stone, they will then need to get a regular permit from the WSA and also from the Resort Village, but that process will be longer.

A prominent Battleford photographer has passed away. It has been confirmed that Menno Fieguth has died at the age of 90. Born in Laird, Fieguth was accomplished in both music and in photography, publishing a number of photo books. His books include Saskatchewan, published in 1980 by Oxford University Press, Historic Saskatchewan, coauthored with Deanna Christensen and published in 1986 by Oxford University Press, and Saskatchewan: A Celebration by Western Producer Prairie Books in 1991. Closer to home he authored the book The Seasons and Moods of Battleford: A Photographic Essay, published in 2004 by Laird Press. He also wrote Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, which came out in 1981 from Oxford University Press. His work Poundmaker’s Grave is part of the city of North Battleford’s permanent collection. He also

Staff Don Windels, executive director of the Lighthouse Supported Living for the last 18 years, says a change is needed in the way homeless shelters are funded. The organization, based in Saskatoon, announced Friday The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords emergency shelter program is expected to close as of April 1 due to lack of funding. There needs to be core government funding made available so organizations such as The Lighthouse can “spend their time helping the homeless, instead of chasing money,” Windels told the News-Optimist in a telephone interview. A release issued out of Saskatoon Friday stated,

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has framed art in the collection at the Arts Board in Regina. In music, Fieguth won a number of voice competitions and studied music in Vienna. The following is from the eulogy provided by his daughter, Cheryl Zacharias: “One of my best memories of my father is meeting

him in Paris in 1985 when he was on a world photography tour. I was already going to Paris and that is where we met. His room was a floor above mine and we had our windows open. Early in the morning I would hear him holler down: ‘Little girl – it is time to get up!’ I would go down to the breakfast room and see him already

“It is with heavy hearts at the end of March and, that The Lighthouse Sup- while there are conversaported Living delivers this tions underway with poannouncement. tential funders, the staff in “Due to substantial North Battleford had to be funding changes, effective given four weeks’ notice by April 1, 2021 The Light- law. He hopes funding can house Serving the Battl- be arranged, but he doesn’t efords can no longer oper- know if it will or if it will www.lskysd.ca ate an emergency shelter be in time. program. A main source of fund“The Lighthouse re- ing they had counted on in mains committed to the the past was reallocated, mission of ending chronic said Windels, as Reaching homelessness in the city Home funding from the of North Battleford, and Provincial Métis Houswill continue to explore ing Corporation was earemergency shelter funding marked just for the north sources and partnerships. this time around. Transitional and supportTwenty-two part time ed housing programs will and full time staff have continue to operate without been given their notices. disruption.” An average of 20 to Windels saidJanuary closing the Ad 24 individuals have been shelter was the only deci- making use of the centre sion that could be made, as each night, said Windels. sources of funding run out The shelter in North

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In 2008, photographer Menno Fieguth of Battleford (right) delivering a photo to then Mayor Chris Odishaw to add to a collection of works by local artists. “I love his work,” said Odishaw. News-Optimist file photo

entertaining everybody. He had so much energy at that time he would scamper all over Paris. I had to take a break because I could not keep up to him. He wanted to go to the Opera House, which we did. On the steps of the Opera House he belted out O Sole Mio. Then he said: ‘OK, now I can say I have sung at the Paris Opera House.’”

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 3

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www.lskysd.ca

Battleford first opened its doors in 2015. In 2014 The Lighthouse Supported Living Inc. had been approached by community leaders in North Battleford to open a permanent emergency shelter. www.lsky The Lighthouse purchased the Reclaim Outreach Centre at 963-102nd Street in North Battleford. Renovations were completed and the doors opened in January 2015. Windels said the Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs, which administers the Community Development Corporation that distributes casino funds, were instrumental in the opening of the shelter, but with casinos affected by February COVID-19 restrictions, that funding has dried up. Continued on Page 14

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Page 4 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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

Letter

Driver ticketed off

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

Dear Editor Recently there have been parking tickets issued for school buses on the streets of Wilkie. I am a bus driver who got one on Oct. 27, 2020, for parking in front of our Credit Union. I have driven school bus for 45 years and have never had a ticket issued before. My driving experience has been in Moose Jaw, Lloydminster, Humboldt, Kerrobert and towns in between, and now in Wilkie. I feel that Wilkie town taxpayers should know about this and the price of a ticket is $100. I am sure most people/taxpayers would find this rather petty, especially in our small town. We are however, allowed to park on the truck route road which is absolutely not safe, and I do believe illegal as well. I, myself, thought that the school bus drivers are an essential service to any town and certainly not a burden. There are no places to park our buses for even a few minutes. Certainly, we would not want to inconvenience anyone in our small town, and surely we are not because of our parking. A letter was sent to town council and we have had no response whatsoever. When I asked the Mayor of Wilkie his replay was, and I quote, “Living Sky got too much money.” This may well be, all I know is they do not pay our tickets. This $100 ticket is deducted off my paycheque, Mr. Mayor, no one pays our bills for us. Ron Woodrow Battleford

Letter

History re-imagined

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

Dear Editor Judging by the quotes in Brian Zinchuk’s article (page 23, Feb. 25 Regional News-Optimist) Premier Scott Moe is re-imagining history in order to appeal to the Indian government. He is denying billions in losses because of the end of the Canadian Wheat Board apparently in hope of increasing Saskatchewan sales to India by a few million. Proposed changes to marketing laws in India, changes that have Indian farmers protesting by the thousands, will eliminate minimum price guarantees, allow direct verbal contracts with buyers, provide for no default penalties on those contracts, allow for market manipulation by actions such as hoarding, and allow corporations to set up unregulated markets any way they see fit. Zinchuk writes that Moe suggests “that the Indian farmers might not need to be so afraid of what is coming, as Saskatchewan farmers have benefited from open markets.” Premier Moe’s revisionist history is appalling. In the article he said that the elimination of the CWB “has created tremendous prosperity for our province and literally helped feed the world through massive gains in production.” Wrong on both counts. With the CWB as our agent it used to take approximately one eighth of the value of a bushel of wheat to get it from my elevator to the hold of a ship (roughly defined as the ‘basis’). Without the CWB the basis now usually takes a full third of the value (very recent increases in demand has dropped the basis to 25 per cent to 27 per cent, still twice as much as it used to be). That’s the opposite of creating prosperity. Premier Moe also brags about our ag exports hitting $16 billion last year, but the gains in production are clearly from higher yielding varieties and agronomic im-

Regional

provements, not the loss of the CWB. In fact the margins have gotten so slim that we desperately needed those fantastic yield increases to survive as wheat producers at all. Because of excess basis western wheat farmers have missed out on well over $15 billion since 2012. The value was still created, it just never made it back to farmers. I demand (dare, beg, plead, cajole ... whatever might work) Premier Moe to show just one single reputable

economic study that proves that Saskatchewan farmers made even a nickel more because we lost the CWB. Stand with Indian farmers in their fight for fairness and for the control of their marketing system, and don’t let Premier Moe and his ilk fool you into thinking the loss of our preferred marketing system in 2012 was a net gain for Saskatchewan farmers. Glenn Tait Meota

Letter

Keep the lights on at The Lighthouse Dear Editor In the early days of the provincial election campaign in 2016, the Saskatchewan government made national headlines for sending two young, homeless, Indigenous men out of North Battleford on one-way bus tickets to Vancouver. In response, a Vancouver city councillor called the Saskatchewan government’s behaviour “callous” and “inhumane.” After witnessing the Saskatchewan government’s approach to issues surrounding homelessness and poverty since 2016, that incident was

A community newspaper published Thursdays Owned & Operated by Prairie Newspaper Group LP a division of GVIC Communications Corp. 892 - 104th Street, North Battleford, Saskatchewan S9A 1M9 Telephone: 306-445-7261 • Fax: 306-445-3223 Serving the Battlefords since 1908 E-mail: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

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just a sign of what was coming. Since 2016, we have seen fundamental changes to programs like assured income for people with disabilities, cuts to the rental housing supplement, changes to social housing and rental support programs, and even – at one point – degrading cuts to funeral assistance for people on income support. All of these changes have brought us to where we are now, during a global pandemic that has further impacted housing stability Continued on Page 5 Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher

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Power of the Pen By R.H. Wood

North Battleford

The Ides of March is approaching, so be careful. Actually, every month has an Ides, which is either the 13th or the 15th day, depending on the length of the month. The Ides divides the month into two roughly equal parts and falls exactly nine day after the Nones, which is not really surprising as the Nones day is nine days before the Ides. OK, that clears that up. Joe and Justin have had their virtual meeting. Joe has smiled his ingratiating anaconda smile and Justin, who, with adorable meekness, agreed to everything

The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 5

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The

ood Pile

Joe could have wished for and Justin could not have wished for less. On Sunday, we had an appointment at the Kramer/Finning building on Highway 16. Never in my wildest would I have envisaged that heavy and agricultural equipment would have such an impressive intensive care setup. As a drive-in JAB centre, it cannot be bettered. The staff and the inoculator administering

Keep the lights on Continued from Page 4 and income security for many of Saskatchewan’s most vulnerable people. The Lighthouse Serving the Battlefords has announced its closure on April 1st, 2021. Twenty-two full and part-time employees have been given termination notices. Although many people are eager to point the finger at either the federal or provincial government for the funding changes, remember that the Saskatchewan government cut core provincial funding to the Lighthouse in 2016 by 90 per cent, just a year after it opened. This funding was never restored, so the Provincial Métis Housing Corporation (PMHC) filled the void and provided the bulk of core funding through the federal “Reaching Home” program. The PMHC funding is now being reallocated, because it makes little logical sense for a provincial Métis housing organization to be responsible for an emergency homeless shelter serving the public in the Battlefords. It is within the provincial jurisdiction. The Lighthouse is now left where it was back in 2016 without significant provincial funding. Saskatchewan is an outlier in how emergency homelessness shelters are funded. In other provinces, shelters are funded using a core funding model where the government will fund a certain number of full and part-time positions, or will fund a core operational budget based on the previous year’s expenses for a shelter. Here in Saskatchewan, emergency shelters still use an outdated per diem model of funding. When an individual is housed in a shelter like The Lighthouse,

the Pfizer vaccine were so efficient and pleasant that we simply cannot wait to go back there for our second dose. Soon, you will be able to choose which brand or flavour you would prefer – e.g. continental, curried or fresh brewed. I think drive through clinics and treatment centres are a great idea. I remember in the past my suggestions that 24/7 “conveyor belt care” was

the answer to clogged hospital systems and found myself universally scorned as an eccentric. Fine, let’s see what other services can be offered. Last week’s article demonstrate the power of the pen and that of this newspaper, in particular. Within 24 hours a charming lady contacted us with an offer of the very book I was seeking which is a compilation of photographs by Menno Fieguth. Very sadly, Menno has just passed away, leaving us with memories of his magnificent voice and visual records of his work. The only problem this week is that the editor missed my free want ad and is apparently looking for me!

the Saskatchewan government assesses their eligibility for emergency housing based on factors such as whether they are receiving income assistance, or whether they receive funding for housing through another program or level of government. If they receive funding elsewhere, the government takes the position that the person is not eligible for provincial funding for emergency shelter and will not provide the per diem payment to the shelter for that person’s stay. One of the jobs of government is to provide public services. These services include the roads we drive on, the hospitals we visit, policing services and recreational spaces like hockey rinks we all enjoy. The Battlefords are communities that deal with high rates of poverty and addictions. Many folks experience ongoing mental health challenges as the result of colonization and the inter-generational effects of government policies that economically, politically and socially cut off First Nations communities. The Lighthouse is an example of a public service in our community that has kept people out of RCMP cells, has provided people with addictions or mental health challenges with a safe place to sleep, and that has connected vulnerable people with resources and a sense of community here in the Battlefords. I could fill another column discussing the economic benefits about the comparative costs of community members using The Lighthouse rather than the policing or healthcare system, and another column explaining the benefits to downtown businesses in ensuring that people experiencing homelessness in the Battlefords have somewhere safe to use the washroom, have a meal, and sleep out of the cold. But for now, I’ll leave it at this: put politics aside. Our

communities are stronger when we take care of those who need help. I urge everyone in the Battlefords to contact your elected officials and work to ensure that our Lighthouse receives the funding it needs to keep the lights on. Benedict Feist North Battleford 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.

Randy Weekes

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

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate The Battlefords is pleased to welcome 00 9,9 Nadine Holstine to their team. 3 1 CH

I grew up on a grain and cattle farm south of Cut Knife. My parents instilled in us the value of family, friends and the importance of lending a helping hand. We are happy to call the Battlefords home Nadine Holstine now. I am married to Brendan. I have 3 amazing boys, who are now young adults, 306-398-7701 and 2 fantastic stepchildren. We have a family cabin at Atton’s Lake where we enjoy spending time on the water, golfing, and a good campfire. I spent the last 17 years employed at the Cut Knife Elementary School as a Speech and Language Assistant which has taught me endless skills. Real estate has been a dream of mine and I am excited for the next step in my journey. I am a small town, prairie girl who loves people. Whether you are buying or selling I am committed to providing excellent service. I cannot wait to help you on your Real Estate journey.

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Page 6 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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A look back at North Battleford Collegiate Institute From 1913-70, thousands of students from the Battlefords and area received their high school education at the North Battleford Collegiate Institute. This is part three of a three-part look back at the history of the school. In week one of this series, we discussed North Battleford’s first high school, the physical layout of the North Battleford Collegiate Institute and a day in the life of the collegiate in 1960. Last week, we profiled principal Harry Sharp. This week week we will consider “Punchy” Thune plus two more Richard W. Hiebert, Ph.D remarkable teachers – Maurice Campbell and President, Battlefords Heritage Society Miss Francis Fletcher.

iebert on Heritage

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near Eston. He taught every subject except Latin and French – a tremendous workload. For his efforts he was paid the princely sum of $400. Maurice also taught in Abbey, Plato, Lacadena, McGee, Lucky Lake, Harris, Tyner and Stranraer. These diverse experiences would prove to be invaluable later when Maurice taught at the collegiate. Maurice stepped out of the education business for

Miss Fletcher

three years to try his hand at the hotel business. Didn’t work. He returned to what he knew and loved – teaching. In 1948, Maurice and his family moved to North Battleford. He taught for two years at Connaught School and then accepted a position at the collegiate. Maurice moved over to the North Battleford Comprehensive High School in 1970 and taught until 1973. He retired having logged 41 years in the profession.

An important key to Maurice’s success was that he understood kids. That wasn’t surprising because, at heart, he was a big kid himself. He enjoyed his work as a teacher immensely. Whether he was teaching math or coaching baseball, Maurice got his knowledge across with the kind of authority kids understood. Using this kind of approach, he helped mold hundreds of students and prepared them for life beyond high school. Maurice was quoted as saying, “I claim that if a person enjoys his work, every day is a holiday. I’ve been on holidays for a lot of years now, and I thank all of my students for making that possible.” Doubtlessly, his students locked into that attitude. There are many students still in the Your curiosity fuels our commitment to keep you Battlefords and area who informed on local news, events and businesses. remember Maurice as a Together, we make a community that’s connected great teacher. every minute at newsoptimist.ca Maurice claimed he had and every Thursday in your never met a bad kid. “Give The Battlefords Regional NEWS-OPTIMIST him some rope,” he said, 300 -446-4 “and306let him know that he’s ds or WE CANand got potential f 7YOU! he’ll come tle H7ELP 0 at around.” There were kids 6 om B .c e ng 45came ional from broken g bi Th who 4 e m R 6 kplu ds r 0 o f homes who saw Maurice as u l e 3 w. attl awwfather figure,ayand he capiThe B d sudrsay He lived the yuTrhthat. rh talized 1908 eveTon since lidsheevdery b efords u ttl P e a B h rd |blis Education Act’s g the admonishO Fr Servin fE o attlefo Pu TA G G S orth B | A Nn Vg Di s VIN e5e,t,2N018 E A tr A S Ke ment that teachers to S 1 A d th r T 4 e AT 2-1 ve0mb e were 89o eAKYwact AC GRE c i BLN f 2r6s1da|y, N f 7 in loco parentis (in the • u o 5 h 4 D T me FRVI ENT post 306|•4 first ti for the at.c|a E t.cis Maurice ld stead ofnefowrathloemokparent). ism o selves. also says, pti opstiom s w d w ei e ally e Foster w.n w.n Germsh play be a re f to RD ww you with ww O By Jaynesaid, “If t’s ing to the stafball go d F e r rr “I e wplay acesfo LE f r the nice pln T tl.” gn fokids, ’s the they’ll gh el si a ty li T w d de r ci tworkheasreardiwngill bethnee seracuterigyty, ball w efor d Battln BA The ne e” anceeinrla T fi Reg addict tionnal st was e driv d by C cthes h stuof h an t po with surdredu ioatci witpl o- ingiman nalize coentyou,” ra fi m rth th S o en w gre edty’ssystem t-. ... hasaBbePatosert ansadidlo, incaatsnel’tthBuiheldarerds crisBatbeereinwhich gsain idteth ce is mplemen er h garim ic reinal feren R fi a ge. if ad L 0 be ha t d 0 an ng ng l ys ,0 gh ly the 0 andi reason 0 ethe ex no chstudents eististil . erhis nmda 1 St,traihe sh is ar e $ ve r m at e r en se to B co e as m d adddsth eid bega says ngw n as en “Wh wtorakine Staff edeaner installe poin be shand have is ou s- sh andmrl ab get it anly G comm Suthe leP respected and Batk r.to looked opM m peared up to 14e. fice wee hu RC d ap heyn20th s pe onths, en of war t nu ords klyherlasan documentarye- kn few m be ouJa wilal tlefow ab Sut in quic on r s ng ss For a CMP has w tl 5 ce di ou Je at fi il d ri W rs bu cu e B ra g of office rlan sa it’sestue.centhim. R ne in th t com he bl He referred to his ow re ys si ut ds en in S a e g or an st2016, but wshared fromtith sa tlef ime d Cas idndth d po e crin Bui t ld a perm ou e iatimon anater saexlm n,hip A n sossmoc citeed In pers antd B . abro without officer. e re-ode , bu e fi “Canada’s dser d Insp ng an A Corzi wke plan th dents greatest n Lpreaobka abtclyheta dry arwassias to . he ei t mandi P transfer re Saska- ef ta w e. sh gn os en ic P m a Pol ect to the cum e ne Ger ad year desihi w de gns Sasr Chi of do an RCM rland to s is sp ef th th re or fo ouietr of Cgn to pay ding, May steill in sam uthe il abrl T S ato e as bu ea an N w th hn g C e resource.” rdin 8 proxirland th.e new says desi ter of th matter of het’s E V E Jotoon, acEco Sut“I of le 5, 20in1 ap t.” charac not just a t. ioyus robuildings,” us asevan MB BRater, d pain ly it’s t DECREyan “July or Aug ing is pr al aster an a re7 - so on da Pos eiContinued y R 15 nd el E ta at B rs ug plePage m M redoin as Post co de at E msh d. it to be w

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When transforming the original North Battleford Collegiate Institute building into John Paul II Collegiate, the school board and architect retained the historic character of the old school. The school is historic in character with an ultramodern function. Photo submitted

Maurice J. Campbell By any measure, Maurice Campbell was an outstanding teacher. Over the years, he taught in most areas of the curriculum, but his specialty was mathematics. He wasn’t a lofty pedagogue; he had nothing to prove. Instead, he was a highly intelligent, approachable and down-toearth professional teacher. Maurice Campbell was born in Steuban, Wisc. on April 5, 1913. His family moved to a homestead in the Cadillac area when Maurice was a young boy. He took Grades 1 through 8 at Prairie du Chene and Grades 9 to 12 at Moose Jaw Collegiate. He then enrolled in the Moose Jaw Normal School with the goal of becoming a teacher. Sometime later, Maurice was awarded a BEd from the University of Saskatchewan. Education was the Campbell family’s profession. His mother was a teacher. His sister Marion was a teacher. Maurice’s brother, Ralph (Scotty), was an industrial arts teacher at NBCI and his son Clayton was also a teacher and vice-principal. Maurice began his teaching career in a oneroom school in Richlea

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He also taught geography. Punchy was demanding when it came to his athletes. Despite that, he had a heart of gold. His charges loved him. His best boxer was Layne Magnuson who won the Golden Gloves medal in his weight class in Edmonton. Punchy was also a great athlete in his own right. In 1967, Thurn dove off the bridge into three feet of water. He expected his students not to copy him.

THE

‘Punchy’ Thurn Over the years, there were some extraordinary teachers and administrators, and some real characters (who were also excellent teachers) on the collegiate staff. I can’t discuss all of them, so I have chosen three longer biographies and one shorter. The short one first. Mr. Thurn, was affectionately known as “Punchy.” Punchy coached the collegiate boxing club.

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Continued from Page 6 As a professional teacher, Maurice did not have much regard for the new educational theories, of which there were many, particularly during the decade of the ‘70s. He implicitly understood that educators must have a positive relationship with their students. Without that, all the theories in the world will be of no avail. Maurice’s motto was, “I’ll do it my way.” He wasn’t being presumptuous; he was being honest. He applied common sense. The success of his methods was measured by the success of his students, and the students in his classes invariably did well. Maurice’s sense of humour was legendary. On one occasion, the superintendent was making a round of classroom visits. Maurice told the kids, “Now you don’t want to look like a bunch of dummies when the superintendent shows up do you? So when the superintendent shows up, put up your right hand if you know the answer, and your left hand if you don’t. Now let’s practice, because sure as heck some you won’t know your right hand from your left.” The superintendent was duly impressed. The kids got a huge charge out of it. When former students talk about Maurice, they invariably tell that story. It would be quite a task to determine the impact Maurice Campbell had on generations of young people in the Battlefords and surrounding area. He helped many hundreds of young people reach their potential. As a teacher, he had no peer. He was one of the most engaging and colourful teachers ever to grace the halls of learning. His was a life well-lived. Miss Fletcher If you were of the opinion that Miss Fletcher was a soft spoken, demure, rather timid English teacher, you would be mistaken. Her acid tongue and logic could straighten out any student who breached the rules. And her rules were strict (but fair). Of course she could always send an errant student to see principal Sharp, but that was rarely necessary. Her English classes were challenging to be sure. But her charges usually got through them, because they didn’t have a choice. Expectations were high in her classes, and students were expected to meet them. If they didn’t there was always noon hour and after school. Francis Mariam Fletcher was born on Nov. 16,????? to Kirkland and Mossy Fletcher (nee McGarvey) on a farm near Saskatoon. She received her elementary education at Melfort and high school in Saskatoon. Miss Fletcher earned an arts degree from Queens University in Kingston

The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 7

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in 1939 and a bachelor of education degree from the University of Manitoba in 1941. Miss Fletcher’s forbearers were stalwart immigrants from the United Kingdom. When they first arrived in Canada, they settled in Upper Canada (Ontario). The Fletchers were imbued with the Protestant work ethic, so they made a good living in the milling industry. Her father, Kirkland, graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in chemical engineering in 1905. He married Mossie McGarvey in the same year. Kirkland built a thriving wholesale electrical business. It seems that Miss Fletcher inherited her love of education from her father and independent spirit from her mother. After she was awarded her B.Ed and teaching certificate, Miss Fletcher embarked on a great adventure and a desire to teach in every area of Saskatchewan. Her first school was at Henderson, “on the very edge of civilization.” Her students came from farm families and were predominately Jewish and Norwegian. Her class of 32 students had only three boys. It was not unusual for the superintendent to show up with no notice. On one occasion, he knocked on the door and was confronted by what appeared to be a small Grade 10 girl. He asked if he could see the teacher. Miss Fletcher pulled herself up to her full height and announced, “I sir, am the teacher.” Miss Fletcher’s experiences weren’t all related to education. She remembered breaking ice in the washroom in the early morning. She skied miles across frozen fields to visit the families of her students. She remembered riding in a one-horse caboose complete with a hot stone “heater.” Once the conveyance tipped over, pitching her into deep snow drifts. She also took note of the Prohibition era and the fact that liquor flowed freely in her community. Then there were the Saturday night dances, the big social event of the winter. After Henderson, there was Greenvale where Miss Fletcher’s students were

of Russian and German descent. It was a rough school. Miss Fletcher had the distinction of staying a full year. She also taught in Radisson, Welwyn, Broadview, Assiniboia, Rosetown and Raymore. The seven years that she taught at Raymore were a highlight of her career. At Raymore she was at the top of the pay scale ‑ $700 per annum. However, considering the mountains of exams and essays she had to correct, it didn’t seem extravagant. In 1945, the high school board hired Miss Fletcher to teach English at NBCI. On her first day, she was appointed head of the English and drama departments, positions she held until her retirement in 1970. English and drama were her two passions and she applied herself with everything she could muster. Students soon learned that Miss Fletcher could be pleasant and charming in the classroom provided the rules were observed and her expectations were met. But she could be hard and uncompromising if they were breached. Miss Fletcher did not tolerate nonsense in her classroom. She had the reputation of excelling as an English teacher. Many of her charges were honours students who were university bound. Miss Fletcher was admired and respected by her colleagues despite that she possessed an iron will and would back up to no one, especially a male teacher. Miss Fletcher was an ardent feminist long before feminism became a mainstream social force. Miss Fletcher was an extraordinary teacher and exemplary citizen. She positively influenced hundreds of young people, many who went on to great achievements. Like her colleagues Harry Sharp and Maurice Campbell, Miss Fletcher will forever be remembered, among others, as one of the North Battleford Collegiate Institute’s great teachers. (Source: The News-Optimist; Lorna McLean, The City of North Battleford Historic Archives; Internet (Gestetner ); R.W. Hiebert, Notables; Facebook; photo credits, Marlene Hiebert)

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Take a look at this excellent business opportunity in Wilkie Sask. Inside you will find a 1600 square foot retail area, a large storage are, walk in cooler, office, mechanical room, and wash room. Outside there is lots of paved parking and excellent high way frontage. The store offers a wide variety of products ranging from convenience items, to groceries, to ice cream, and even local art products. This is a turn key business opportunity and shows good return on investment. Wilkie offers a K-12 school, most amenities and is a vibrant farming community. Call today for more info.

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Page 8 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

Regional News-Optimist

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 9

Save up to $2,100 in taxes with the Home Renovation Tax Credit Under the nonrefundable Home Renovation Tax Credit, Saskatchewan homeowners may save up to $2,100 in provincial income tax by claiming a 10.5 per cent tax credit on up to $20,000 of eligible home renovation expenses. Eligible expenses include the cost of labour and professional services, building materials, fixtures, equipment rentals, and permits. This tax credit will be administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as part of the Saskatchewan personal income tax system. CRA will develop the necessary forms and filing instructions. To qualify, renovations must be to your principal residence, which must be located in Saskatchewan. Renovation expenses must be incurred between Oct. 1, 2020, and Dec. 31, 2022.

HDC

The renovation must be substantially completed by December 31, 2022. At the time of the renovation(s), you must own, alone or jointly with another person, the housing unit (or share of the capital stock of a co-operative housing corporation that you acquired solely for the right to inhabit the housing unit owned by that corporation). You, your current or former spouse or commonlaw partner, or any of your or your spouse/commonlaw partner’s children must ordinarily inhabit the housing unit during the eligibility period. In general, renovations must be of an enduring nature and integral to the dwelling or to the land that forms part of the dwelling. Land of one-half hectare or 1.24 acres, including the land upon which your

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housing unit stands and any portion of the adjoining land, will generally be considered part of your eligible dwelling for purposes of this tax credit. Claim the credit on your 2021 and/or 2022 personal income tax returns. Total qualified expenses incurred between October 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $12,000 can be claimed on your 2021 tax return (maximum claim of $11,000 for 2021). Total qualified expenses incurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $10,000, can be claimed on your 2022 tax return (maximum claim of $9,000 for 2022). Eligible expenses must be supported by documents such as receipts or

invoices. Examples of eligible expenses: • painting the interior or exterior of a house; • re-shingling a roof; • kitchen, bathroom, and/or basement renovations; • flooring (carpet, linoleum, hardwood, laminate, etc.); • windows and/or doors; • furnace, boiler, woodstove, fireplace, water softener, water heater, and/or oil tank; • central air conditioner; • permanent home ventilation; • permanent reverse osmosis system; • septic system and/or wells; • electrical wiring upgrades (e.g., changing from 100 to 200 amps); • home security system (monthly fees do not qualify);

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other eligible expenditure (e.g., a device that is a fixture and is necessary and primarily used to operate solar panels, air conditioning systems, home security devices, or ventilation systems); • associated costs to the above such as installation, permits, professional services, equipment rentals, and incidental expenses (e.g., work performed by electricians, plumbers, carpenters, architects, etc. will generally constitute an eligible expense); • for condo owners and co-operative housing corporation members, your share of the cost of eligible renovations to common areas will qualify for the tax credit if certain conditions are met. For more information, search for the Saskatchewan Home Renovation Tax Credit online.

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Greater Coverage with the 2021 Crop Insurance Program This year, Crop Insurance coverage will reach a record level due to higher commodity prices and increased yield coverage. March 31, 2021 is the deadline to select insured crops and coverage levels or make additional changes to Crop Insurance contracts. Producers need to also apply, reinstate or cancel by this date. For more information about the 2021 insurance options, call 1-888-935-0000 or visit www.scic.ca. Hon. Scott Moe, Premier

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Ben Christensen retiring from Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear 20210301_News Optimist Ad_Crop Insurance.indd 1

By John Cairns Staff Reporter

An era ends this weekend at Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear in North Battleford. After more than 45 years with the store Ben Christensen is retiring. This Saturday marks his last day working at the store. Christensen began at the store in 1975, and working there for an initial two-month period before quitting to spend the summer at Jasper. He was all set to head to trade school in Winnipeg

when co-owner Don Ross enticed Christensen to return at an increased salary. He took the job and stayed on ever since. Christensen bought in as a junior partner in 1980 when co-owner Bill Wheeldon retired. He later became an equal partner alongside Don’s son Jim Ross and for the last number of years with Derek Schmidt. Upon Christensen’s retirement, Schmidt now becomes the first sole proprietor in the store’s history. Bill and Don’s has been a North Battleford insti-

tution since 1955, a fact Christensen is proud of. “I like to think it’s a real community staple,” Christensen said. “We’re really, really honoured that people would have supported us all those years. Because of them, the store is still here.” His retirement has been in the works for a while. “It has been in the works for about a year — even pre-pandemic I would like to have maybe gone out a little earlier in 2020 but circumstances didn’t allow. Anyway, the time is right now.”

The photo above is from 2005 when Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear received the BBEX Heritage Award after 50 years in business: Derek Schmidt, Jim Ross, the now late Bill Wheeldon, Donnie Ross, widow of Don Ross and Ben Christensen, all the owners of the store since its inception in 1955. Bill and Don’s celebrated its 65th anniversary on Dec1 of 2020. Ben Christensen is now retiring from Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear. Photos submitted

3/1/2021 9:40:46 AM

Retiring Ben Christensen with a memento of BBEX awards the Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear has won.

Christensen stayed to help navigate those rough waters of the pandemic. He called 2020 a “very challenging year,” especially during a period of nine weeks in 2020 when the store was mandated by the government to close due to restrictions in place. When the business opened again under the reopening plan, they needed to adjust as the pandemic altered all facets of ordinary life. The business implemented social distancing, hand-sanitizing and other protocols, but also had to deal with a reduction in live grad ceremonies, weddings and other events. “Our motto for our store has always been ‘for the events in your life,’” said Christensen, “and as you know the grads took on a very different form in 2020. So did all the weddings. Everything was smaller. People still had events but they were all on a much smaller scale,” said Christensen. Continued on Page 11

Ben Christensen has virtually all of the ties he’s ever owned in the form of a giant quilt, seen as a backdrop to this photo, made by Irene Halco of Spiritwood, who, as Miss Lavoie, was Christensen’s Grade 3 teacher in 1963 when his family lived in Spiritwood.

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Sale announced of Anderson Pump House Staff

It has been announced that a longtime North Battleford business has been sold. In a news release it was confirmed that Howard and Sharon Kirby have sold Anderson Pump House to Aquifer Distribution Ltd. The buyer is a Saskatchewan owned company based in Saskatoon, owned by Glenn and Jodi Wig. The new organization will service the water systems, wastewater, water treatment, plumbing supply, HVAC supply, water works, irrigation and fire suppression markets across Saskatchewan out of four cities: North Battleford, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Regina, with over 130 staff. In a statement, Anderson Pump House noted that Aquifer and APH have been respectful competitors for over 35 years.

“Howard and Sharon’s biggest concern was ensuring the future of their employees. With North Battleford and Prince Albert combined, APH has over 45 staff. They would never have sold APH without assurances that their employees would be looked after, and that the business would continue to operate with the same values as it has in the past. They are extremely satisfied that this is the best decision for the future of APH and for their loyal customer base. They will truly miss all of the relationships and friendships that they have developed over the past 38 years with customers, suppliers, and staff.” The sale ends over 50 years in which the Kirbys have been involved in the industry, with Howard starting at Anderson Drilling in the summer of 1970. After departing to com-

The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 11

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plete his diploma and pursue other opportunities with Saskatchewan Agriculutre, Kirby rejoined Anderson Drilling in 1976. In 1983 he separated to form Anderson Pump House. Howard will stay involved to help with the transition. Afterwards, the Kirbys plan to remain in the community and live at Day’s Beach on Jackfish Lake, where they plan to “enjoy retirement and all that goes with it.” They are also looking forward to spending time with family in Battleford. Their son, Rod Forman, remains at APH as the general manager of the North Battleford and Prince Albert branches. Howard and Sharon Kirby are extending thanks to everyone who has helped them over the years and say they will be “forever grateful” to their customers past and present.

Howard and Sharon Kirby

Christensen retiring from Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear Continued from Page 10 “We’re really happy that people still celebrated, but not as many people attended celebrations and subsequently that does affect a business like ours.” He did note they had a great Christmas season, and appreciated people coming out and supporting them at that time. Christensen did notice they sold “more lounge and relaxing wear than we did

dress wear in all the other years.” Christensen is optimistic for the future of the business under Schmidt, and looks forward to seeing the pandemic restrictions lifted. “It’s a very viable business and we want to keep it going.” As for his own plans for the future, he says he will miss his time with the customers. But Christensen said

he found out during the nine weeks of pandemic lockdown in 2020, when he was stuck at home like everyone else, that “retirement wouldn’t be as hard as I thought it might be.” “I found enough to do and more and I’m quite satisfied that I think I’ll find things to do.” One thing he was able to do about five weeks ago was acquire some crosscountry skis, so he’s been

doing a lot of that. He’s also looking forward to more family time, including with his four grandchildren. Christensen feels he is leaving on a “high note,” where he is looking forward to the future. “I’m young enough that I’m still excited about things,” said Christensen. “I’m quite eager about the whole thing.” His longtime business

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partner Derek Schmidt had this to say about Ben’s retirement: “It’s an exciting opportunity for me to be sole owner of Bill and Don’s Men’s Wear. Just very grateful for the last 27 years I spent with Ben as a mentor and partner and wish him all the best in his

new stage in life. It’s pretty exciting for him and equally exciting for me.” “It’s been a great learning adventure and great learning opportunity,” Schmidt adds, “and it’s been quite an adventure having Ben as a partner and really good friend.”

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Page 12 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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‘Doing something together like this has always been kind of a dream’

Writer Linnea Bargen-Koehn and illustrator Natahna Bargen-Lema, who grew up in the Battlefords, have produced the children’s e-book The Hill by the Lake. Photos submitted

Sisters who grew up in Bfds produce children’s e-book By John Cairns

came about late spring or early summer last year. “We write a lot in our own time, we’re creative a lot in our own time, so doing something together like this has always been kind of a dream,” said Natahna. Linnea came up with the idea, and said it was based on their growing up outside of the Battlefords. “I always had vivid memories from our growing up here in Saskatchewan, and particularly there’s this lake that we would always go to called

Staff Reporter

Two sisters who grew up in the Battlefords have teamed up to produce a children’s e-book. The book is The Hill by the Lake, written by Linnea Bargen-Koehn and Natahna Bargen-Lena. Both are from North Battleford, though Linnea lives in Nova Scotia now and Natahna is in Edmonton. In speaking to the News-Optimist, Natahna said the idea for the book

Horseshoe Lake,” Linnea said. “It has a hill and a little secluded lake, and usually there was nobody there. That was always our favourite — driving up there and then climbing up the big hill, and seeing the lake from the top of the hill.” According to the promotional material on their website, BargenKoehn “excavates her own personal memories of a perfect day spent at a hidden prairie lake as seen through the eyes of a child. With multimedia,

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collage-styled artwork by Bargen-Koehn’s own sister, Natahna BargenLema, the two create a piece of eLiterature that is equal parts whimsical and intricately detailed.” “What this book really touches on is kind of how the ‘everyday’ is really magical for children,” Natahna said. “This is a place that we would go to all the time as kids.” For the art part, Natahna said she leaned more on the collage style. “What I think is cool about the collage style is we take images that

are from photography, and specifically, actually, our dad took a lot of photos when we were growing up. Most of them are from my dad and the ones he took from that time in our lives. A few of them, when we had to fill in the gaps are from Linnea’s and my own collection.” They were able to get the book launched because Natahna had launched an e-publishing company, Party Trick Press. The idea behind the company is to put out “stories that are exciting and fresh” and

revolutionize the e-book experience. About half the proceeds from the sales are going to a non-profit called “Reclaiming Our Roots” run by Chenise Hache and James Doucette, which focuses on land-based learning and community stewardship for urban indigenous youth. The e-book is available to buy at partytrickpress. com. A purchase includes the eBook (.pdf), a printable coloring page (.pdf), and two iPad screensavers.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 13

Working around the pandemic to celebrate music By Kelly Waters

Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

One constant during a pandemic is change. The Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival is committed to accommodating live performances at the Dekker Centre for the 2021 event. With continued restrictions for public safety, appropriate adaptations are being created. Current guidelines from the SHA state that no audience members will be allowed in the festival venue. That means a “live” festival with the adjudicator in the room, along with participants, teachers, volunteers, videographer and venue staff. The performances will be live streamed for all others interested to see and hear. SHA is calling this a “virtual” festival in keeping with government guidelines for sports and activities. Singers and wind instrumentalists are permitted to perform without a mask so long as a mask is worn while entering and exiting the stage, removing it to perform. There will be plexiglass barriers in place in front of the performers for added safety. Pianists, string players and percussionists will wear masks as they perform. Current scheduling accommodates students being in groups of 10 while in the theatre area, giving plenty of leeway in terms of staying under the maximum number of 30 people allowed at one time. This group will be able to hear each other perform and listen to live adjudications. A global pandemic is a time in which we navigate and navigate we will. The 2020 festival, as many other events this past year, was cancelled making its perseverence this 2021 music festival season exciting no matter the circumstances. All three of this year’s festival adjudicators are from Saskatchewan. Vocal adjudicator, Chris Kelly, studied piano and was a member of the Prince Albert Boys Choir, eventually serving as their accompanist and director of junior choirs. He earned a double university major, completing performance and academic requirements in both voice and piano at the University of Saskatchewan. He received a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Western Ontario. Kelly has been a sessional lecturer in the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Music teaching voice and serving as an accompanist. He has also taught keyboard skills and musicianship.

Festival Fanfare Battlefords Kiwanis Musical Festival He maintains a private voice and piano studio and performs regularly in recital, opera and oratorio. Piano adjudicator Janet Tieckis grew up in rural Saskatchewan. Culture and landscape has profoundly affected her musical output. After completing music degrees from Prairie Bible College (Three Hills, Alta.) and the Royal Conservatory of Music, she has had her compositions performed at many concerts, new music festivals and on CBC radio. Her pedagogical compositions are now listed on many different syllabi across the country. Passionate about sharing music with those in her community and beyond, Tieckis is a member of the Alliance for Canadian New Music Projects and the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association (currently serving as president of the Swift Current branch). She is in demand as a piano teacher, adjudicator, and clinician. Adjudicator Mark Preece brings band and instrumental expertise. He began playing the tuba at age 12 in the Salvation Army. He is the principal tuba and librarian of the Regina Symphony

Orchestra. He has master’s and bachelor’s degree in music as well as a bachelor’s degree in tuba performance. Preece is in demand as a clinician and adjudicator with the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association. He is the tuba and euphonium instructor at Regina’s Conservatory for the Performing Arts, teaches tuba and euphonium at the University of Regina and is also on faculty at the International Music Camp in North Dakota. Preece’s career has led him to performances in the United States, France,

Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Japan. He is also an active chamber musician as a member of Big Sky Brass, Regina’s professional brass ensemble, and the International Tuba Quartet. Preece has written arrangements for brass band, orchestral brass and brass chamber ensembles as well as pieces for solo tuba and tuba quartet. With more than 200 festival entries in hand, the festival committee is creating the performance schedule, adjusting dates so that all the entries may be heard between April 19-24. A recorded gala concert including the announcement of award winners will be created and made available for viewing. Keep in mind that volunteers are needed for the festival. Those who would like to add their name to the volunteer list can talk to any committee member or email l.sander@

hotmail.com. In way of honouring the passing of artists from 2020, Nicholas Eduardo Alberto Cordero was a Canadian actor and singer born in Hamilton, Ont. who eventually made his way to Broadway. He passed away last July due to COVID-19 complications at the age of 41 after battling the disease for 95 days. He was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his role as Cheech in the 2014 Broadway musical Bullets Over Broadway and was twice nominated for Drama Desk Awards. Cordero met his wife, Amanda Kloots, when they were both performing in Bullets over Broadway. They married in 2017. Cordero is survived by their one-year-old son, Elvis. Throughout his COVID-19 battle, Kloots gathered virtually with fans and well-wishers at 3 p.m. every day to sing and

dance to Live Your Life cheering on Cordero’s recovery. After his death, Koots said on social media that “3 p.m. will forever remind me of Nick. Thank you so much for the past 95 days singing with me.” “My parents were big Motown fans, I grew up with a lot of soul music in the house, but as a young person getting involved with theatre I became exposed to the standards, there were cabaret shows with Hollywood songs, war songs, things like “I’ll Be Seeing You”, I became exposed to those lyrics which were from early pop songs. One of the reasons I connected to this score (A Bronx Tale) is because it reminded me of early pop music, we have the doo-wop sound, and a Bobby Darin sound, but we have something like “One of the Great Ones” which is Sinatra style.” – Nick Cordero (1978 – 2020)

Page 14 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Advertising and sponsorship policy approved for Battleford By John Cairns Staff Reporter

Advertising and sponsorship was a big topic discussed at Monday’s town council meeting in Battleford. Council has approved an advertising and sponsorship policy which allows for seeking out advertising and sponsorship opportunities at town facilities and

parks, including Battleford Arena and elsewhere. Parks and Recreation Director Jordan Schectel presented the policy at the meeting, which he said is based largely on one put in place in Moose Jaw. The policy had previously come up at the town’s parks and recreation committee and already had their approval. Among the ideas put forward at the meeting was

awarding naming rights for the Battleford Arena; also put forward was an idea to put up a billboard in front of the rink that could be used to put up advertising. The naming rights discussion was particularly animated. The proposal in the draft policy was for a 10-year term for arena naming rights at $15,000 per year. But Councillor David

Possible resolution in case against man found with 17 kg of drugs By Lisa Joy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / News-Optimist

There may be a resolution in the case against an Alberta man facing drug charges after North Battleford RCMP seized 17 kg of drugs from his SUV. Lowen Diehl, 36, was arrested during a traffic stop on Highway 16 on Dec. 7, 2020. When police searched his SUV they found a large amount of Canadian currency, about 15 kg of methamphetamine, about one kg of cocaine, a small amount of fentanyl and one kg of an unidentified substance. Police say the methamphetamine equals

about 150,000 individual doses and the cocaine equals about 1,000 individual doses. A lawyer appearing for Diehl on Feb. 11 requested a four-week adjournment to review further disclosure received. The Crown and Defence may reach a joint submission. Diehl’s matter is now scheduled in North Battleford Provincial Court on March 11. Federal Crown Prosecutor Kirsten Janis from Saskatoon asked the court to issue a bench warrant to hold against Diehl to preserve jurisdiction. On Jan. 15, 2021, Diehl was released from custody in Saskatchewan on $10,000

cash bail and a $10,000 surety. His bail conditions stipulate he must remain at his home in Alberta on 24hour house arrest. The following week, on Jan. 19, 2021, Diehl had an appearance in Edmonton Provincial Court on charges out of Alberta. He was sentenced to six months in jail for dangerous driving, followed by 12 months of probation. He was additionally given 12 months probation on charges of possession of drugs. Several charges were dropped including possession for the purpose of trafficking, two counts of failing to comply with a release order and possession of property under $5,000.

For more court and crime news, visit www/newsoptimist.ca

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George made the point that a 10-year term for naming rights was too long, and could potentially miss out on revenues during the final few years of the term. It was pointed out other communities were going with shorter terms for their naming rights for their arenas. “A lot of larger centres were selling naming rights for 25 or 50 years or for life, and then they could never renegotiate value,” said Mayor Ames Leslie. Leslie noted there had been a “big change in western Canada” regarding how long things could be named for.

Battleford Parks and Recreation Director Jordan Schectel presented the advertising and sponsorships policy at Monday’s council meeting. Microsoft Teams screenshot by John Cairns

In the end Leslie supported the policy. He noted they were collecting zero dollars on naming rights

Lighthouse closing April 1 Continued from Page 3 Windels said they have been talking with BTAC, and maybe they will find some way to continue the shelter program, and The Lighthouse Supported Living is open to helping in any way they can. But whatever happens, he said, The Lighthouse is grateful to the organization for having made the shelter possible over the last several years. In fact, Windels said they are grateful to the entire community that has been so supportive and they are sorry they have to reduce their activities in North Battleford right now. The Lighthouse has also had a partnership with Battle River Treaty 6 Health to administer

a managed alcohol program, which he says has been successful, and which uses the shelter for long term housing of the clients. This funding may also be lost, he said, but there are other locations that can be used if they are able to continue the program. It has had a positive impact, said Windels, and he said is it gratifying to see some of the success they’ve seen with it in Saskatoon being replicated in the Battlefords and he hopes it can continue. The difficulties being faced right now boil down to a lack of core funding, said Windels. They get so little from the provincial government right now as to have had no effect on the decision to close the

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from facilities and saw it as a “great start” to create new revenue to offset expenses.

shelter. “We need to change the way shelters are funded,” he said. North Battleford, especially, is in a unique situation because of a jurisdictional argument. Many of the homeless are indigenous and as such, the provincial government says it’s up to the federal government to help, but the federal government says it’s up to the province because they are off-reserve, said Windels. Having core funding in place would make working to help the homeless more effective and more successful, instead of spending so much energy on finding funding. So much more could be done, he said.

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VOICE OF

BUSINESS

STRENGTHENING BUSINESS

Phone: 306-445-6226 Find us on Facebook www.battlefordschamber.com P.O. Box 1000 North Battleford SK S9A 3E6 New Chamber Members: Fabricland • 872 – 1030rd Street, North Battleford, Sask. • 306-445-1966

Chamber members, send your Member Milestones to Call 306-445-6226 admin@battlefordschamber.com

CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES LEADING CEO’S TO FORM COVID-19 RECOVERY LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (OTTAWA) – Canadian Chamber of Commerce

As pandemic restrictions approach one year and Canada faces new variants and vaccine delays, Canada’s business community is coming together to help our nation recover from its health and economic crisis. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has brought together 19 CEOs and senior executives from leading companies to contribute their entrepreneurial skills and experience in delivering projects at scale. The group will help accelerate the deployment of COVID-19 mitigation tools on the ground by connecting companies creating vaccines, delivering testing, tracing and other support programs for the businesses requiring these services. The new COVID-19 Recovery Leadership Council will help develop practical solutions to reduce and ultimately eliminate COVID-19 in Canada and pave the way for a business-led economic recovery. The council members will also draw upon their experiences with managing COVID-19 at their respective companies to develop best practices businesses and other organizations can adopt. “We are literally in a race against time as new and more dangerous variants of COVID-19 spread. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan have had much greater success at managing the virus by applying overlapping layers of protection and mitigation. Our new COVID-19 Recovery Leadership Council will bring together a cross-section of Canada’s foremost business leaders to focus on how to protect our physical and economic health,” said Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The council will be comprised of the following company representatives: CAE; Pfizer Canada; T&T Supermarkets; ATCO Frontec; Akawe Technologies; BFL Canada; BlackBerry; Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec; Canada Life; Canadian Chamber of Commerce; Cogeco; Franchise Management Inc.; Franco Nevada; Get Ready; Greater Toronto Airports Authority; Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies (Canada); Mosaic Forest Management; Paramount Fine Foods; Providence Therapeutics; RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust; Rio Tinto (Diavik Diamond Mines); Shoppers Drug Mart; WestJet. The council will also be supported by special advisors: Perrin Beatty, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce; Monique Leroux, Vice Chair, Fiera Holdings Inc.; Sonia Sennik, Executive Director, Creative Destruction Lab Rapid Screening Consortium. Additional Quotes: (from two of the Council co-chairs) “Canadian businesses have invaluable resources and insights that can help Canada prepare the post-COVID years. The business community is ready to put all hands-on deck to lay the groundwork for the ‘new normal’ and to put everything in place for a rapid economic recovery – for the benefit of all Canadians.” – Marc Parent, President and CEO, CAE (Council Co-Chair) “As an essential business, T&T brings the tactical experience of operating stores, warehouses, and offices, while minimizing Covid-19 transmission amongst staff and customers. I look forward to sharing our perspective on what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to get done to keep businesses open and co-existing with this pandemic.” – Tina Lee, CEO, T&T Supermarkets (Council Co-Chair).

The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 15

Canada United Small Business Relief Fund Grants of up to $5,000 available! Created by RBC, Canada United is a movement to support local businesses in communities across the country. The Canada United Small Business Relief Fund was established to help small businesses offset the cost to safely open or adopt digital technologies to move more of their business online.

Over $14 million has been contributed by the federal government, RBC, and Canada United partners to support recovery efforts due to COVID-19. Over 2,000 small businesses across the country have already taken advantage of the opportunity. Receipts for expenses can have been incurred as early as March 15th, 2020. The Canada United Small Business Relief Fund is managed by the Ontario Chambers of Commerce on behalf of the national chamber network in support of other chambers and partners to help small Canadian businesses with their recovery efforts as a result of COVID-19. Successful applicants will receive a relief grant of up to $5,000. Information can be found on www.occ.ca or https://occ.ca/canada-united-smallbusiness-relief-fund/

Empty Tables Don’t Pay Bills: New data reveals ongoing decline in food services Statistics Canada recently released data on the food services sector and how is has been disproportionately harmed by the ongoing pandemic. The data speaks to the stark year-over-year comparisons for the sector, revealing a precipitous drop in sales between December 2019 and December 2020: • Total food services sales are down b over 35% ($6.5b vs $4.2b) • Full service restaurant sales are down over 50% ($2.9b vs $1.4b) • Drinking place sales are down over 64% ($221m vs $78 m) “Restaurants were some of the very first businesses to be hit by the pandemic and broad-based business restrictions last March. As this new data shows, the food services sector continues to be severely weakened,” says the Director of Parliamentary Affairs and SME Policy for the Canadian Chamber. “Canada’s restaurants are predominantly small businesses that have limited cash reserves. The need for targeted supports to help them weather the storm is urgent.”

Page 16 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Former Wilkie resident named as Canada’s first-ever research chair in deaf education By Sherri Solomko Joanne Weber, daughter of Ed and Lois Weber of Wilkie, has been named as the first-ever research chair in deaf education. The focus of her work and research is the impact of the arts on language and literacy outcomes for deaf children and youth. Arts education and exploration were major components of Weber’s own early education and experiences. Weber is profoundly deaf and says she was mainstreamed in regular education classes for most of her schooling. She grew up in Wilkie, attending Norman Carter School and McLurg High School during the early 1960s and ‘70s. Her parents both taught in Wilkie. “My parents emphasized the arts during early childhood. They also took classes in deaf education at Minot State College in North Dakota in the summers to help further my language skills,” Weber says. Following high school graduation, Weber attended the University of Saskatchewan and obtained honours bachelor of arts degrees in English and philosophy as well as a BEd. At Edmonton she earned a master’s in library science at the University of Alberta, followed by a PhD from the University of Regina. She was awarded the Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal for her work in arts-based language and literacy intervention with deaf students. In 1988, she decided to explore her own deaf “experience,” learning sign language and attending Gallaudet University during the 1988 Deaf President Now movement. This year enabled her to achieve certification from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education to teach deaf children. She taught at the R.J.D. Williams Provincial School for the Deaf in Sas-

katoon before it closed in 1991. She took on a number of short-term jobs, one of which was the co-ordinator of literacy programs and university programs at North West Regional College. Then she moved to Regina and taught for Regina Public Schools in a deaf education resource program at Thom Collegiate and later at Winston Knoll Collegiate. Seventeen years later, she resigned from that position on June 30, 2020 and accepted the offer of the Canada Research Council Chair (Tier 2) at the University of Alberta on July 1, 2020. Weber and her husband, Murray Valiaho, are still living in Regina, but they plan to also establish a residence in Edmonton when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Right now, Weber is teaching and researching virtually from Regina. At the University of Alberta, Weber will explore how the arts can contribute to increase language and literacy outcomes for deaf children and youth. “Despite intensive auditory training and being a dedicated hearing aid user, I was never able to develop language by just sitting in a classroom for five hours every day,” Weber says. “I didn’t have enough hearing to do that. I couldn’t hear teachers or classmates, only muffled sounds emanating from their voices. I developed a love for books and was able to read to fill in the gaps left by not being able to hear in the classroom.” Her parents were focused on developing her cognitive skills in addition to language skills. She had her own paint easel, costumes, danced to her father’s saxophone and attended many plays. “At that time, Unity and Wilkie had so many children with hearing losses that the parents got together to form a group that lobbied the Government of Saskatchewan for help

for their children,” Weber explains. The parent group eventually set up pre-schools in each town. Dr. Mervin Ashing of Unity and Louise Stang of Wilkie were involved. At first the Red Cross funded these two pre-schools. Weber received speech therapy once a month from Mrs. Burill in Unity for a few years during her elementary schooling. She remembers how Mrs. Burrill made her memorize and recite poetry. “Our family always viewed the arts as a way to build community and relationships. None of us are celebrity level artists and that was never our goal,” she says. “My grandmother became a teacher and a visual artist while my grandfather played the violin at many dances in northern Saskatchewan. My father played big band music at dances and concerts in Wilkie. My mother has a lovely singing voice and sang in church

choirs. My brother David Weber, who teaches at St. Peter’s School in Unity, plays a mean guitar with Danny and the Dusters and is a writer and visual artist. My sister, Ruth Weber, is a superintendent of the Living Sky School Division and has directed a junior choir for over 30 years. “My youngest sister, Carol Keller, plays a ukulele, sings, writes and acts in plays in North Battleford. She is also a teacher aid in a school in that city. My children (including my stepsons) are involved in bands, piano and choir. “My daughters and my husband are teachers as well. I also have numerous nieces and nephews who are gifted musicians (violin, drums, saxophone, trombone and trumpet), writers (plays, musicals) and artists (visual art and photography).” Weber says grandchildren of Ed and Lois used to play together for years on a farm outside of Scott, and armed with a

Joanne Weber. Photo courtesy of Alison Bertoia Photography

video camera, wrote their own scripts, acted and edited their own movies. The arts never seem to have left their blood and this emphasis on community building is reflected in Weber’s niece, Rachel Cey’s Home to Heart Facebook page that celebrates the artistic contributions of the Wilkie and Unity community as well as surrounding areas.

“As well, the deaf community has its own literary and artistic traditions that contribute to its vibrant culture and language resources. I hope to capitalize upon community art making in my research,” Weber says. More about Weber’s research can be accessed at: https://joannecweber.wordpress.com/.

Major Donation to Villa Pascal

The Villa Pascal Ladies Auxiliary have worked endless hours at the Carousel Bingo to Raise funds for the Villa Pascal. A generous donation of $13,000 was presented to Heather Beatch, manager of the Villa Pascal by Allie Raycraft president of the Villa Pascal Ladies Auxiliary recently. Photo submitted

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Date: Feb. 16, 2021 to Mar. 15, 2021

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 17

A weekend for TV remote multitasking By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

What a weekend, trying to watch Telemiracle and curling, at the same time. Telemiracle 45 ended up successful again, raising more than $5.5 million. What great people we have in this province and from far corners of Canada. The telecast showed several cases of where the money goes to help folks who need it for medical travel and accommodations or for equipment for those handicapped. This help is a godsend to needy people. The cedar waxwings are travelling through, cleaning off the berries on the trees. They started up north earlier and are now in the Battlefords. The Lions in Meota have lost another member in the person of Rita

eota News

Schenker. The community offers their condolences to her family. A recent report of the work that the Lions do in this area makes one realize that it takes many folks to do it all. They are looking for new members to help keep the organization with enough workers to share the workload and also benefit from the camaraderie that comes with membership. So now may be the time for newcomers to become part of our proud little village. There will not be any Easter bunnies available from the Lions this year because of the pandemic. I see a report that The

Lighthouse in the city will be closing April 1. What happens then? The Edam Community Recreation Centre offered take-out menu specials Feb. 18 and 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. These were well received and appreciated by the folks who took advantage of the offer. They are planning another such event in March. Vawn Rally Saturday, Feb. 20 saw ideal conditions for the Fourth Annual Vawn Community Hall Snowmobile Rally. The temperature was -3 C, without any wind, and fresh snow fell Friday night. These ideal conditions and the school break saw a record 210 riders register. Due to COVID-19, all registrations were done online, with a maximum of 10 people per party departing the Vawn Hall every 10 minutes.

All protocols were also followed in the hall and, unfortunately, no food or drink could be served this year. The route was roughly 80 kilometres and had riders going through the Jackfish Hills to Martinson’s Beach, before they headed to Cavalier and ventured toward the North Saskatchewan River valley. A huge thank you goes out to Marcel and Annette Duhaime who made this year’s trail. Riders came from as far away as Beaumont, Alta., Kerrobert and many from Lloydminster and the Battlefords. There were more than 100 door prizes given away. The 50/50 jackpot, sponsored by the Vawn Hotel, went for $1,470 and was won by Gerald Duhaime of Kerrobert. The Vawn Community

Families from all over Northwest Saskatchewan took part in the 4th annual Vawn Community Hall Snowmobile Rally. Photo submitted

Hall Board would like to thank all 210 riders, 46 sponsors, two RCMP officers who rode the trail and 16 volunteers who made this event such a success. Organizers were able

to raise more than $5,500 that will go to bathroom upgrades at the Vawn Hall. See you all Feb. 19, 2022 for our fifth annual event. – Submitted by Brandon Doom

Non-delivery scams: When nothing comes to those who wait CNW - Yes! You’ve been shopping online for weeks for dumbbells and you’ve finally found the perfect ones. They’re the right style, the right size, and a great price! You click on the big red “Buy now!” button, and the site processes your payment and promises that you will be enjoying your new dumbbells in two weeks’

time. Two weeks come and go, and still, no dumbbells. Your attempts to contact the seller prove fruitless, and after a few more weeks, you realize you’ve been had, and the dumbbells are never coming. Canadians shop online a lot, and many of us have been victims of a “nondelivery” scam in the past.

Home delivery is a lifeline for so many. Canadians are even more at risk when shopping for high-demand items like personal protective equipment. And virtually ALL Canadians are vulnerable. If you shop online, you’re a potential victim. In 2020, merchandise scams including non-delivery scams accounted for an estimated

$8.7 million in Canadian losses, and an immeasurable erosion of confidence in the online marketplace. Retailers failing to honour the claims they made about the delivery of a product could be considered false or misleading advertising and a violation of the Competition Act. So, how can you avoid this scam, and what should you

do if you get the bill, but you don’t get the goods? Before you buy - Take 5: Wait, even just five minutes, to stop and think before entering your credit card information. Do your research: Check the company’s refund and return policies and try searching the company name along with the words “complaint” or

“scam.” - Read reviews: Search online reviews about the seller, especially those related to non-delivery of products or long delivery delays. Don’t trust overly positive reviews and star ratings on a seller’s website. They could be fake. - Look for credentials: Check with the Better Continued on Page 18

Seniors know a lot, but there’s always more to learn. Help ensure your later years are safe and secure. Learn about programs and services for seniors, like how the Canada Pension Plan can work better for you, increases to the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Old Age Security payments, and more.

Visit Canada.ca/seniors or call 1 800 O-Canada (1 800 622-6232)

Page 18 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Museum explores uses of founder’s bequest By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

One of the main items on the agenda of the Feb. 25 annual meeting of the Borden Museum, was a fund established in memory of museum founder Helen Sutherland. In her report, president Karen Kerr paid tribute to Sutherland, who originally started the museum with her husband Don. The couple had extensive knowledge of the history of the village and the surrounding area. The museum is looking for ideas on how to use her memorial fund. During the meeting held in the Borden Seniors’ Room, Kerr introduced the members of the board – secretary Brenda Tumbach, treasurer Ruben Rempel and vice-president Darby Sutherland. Other members are Stew and Eleanor Walton, Martha Rempel, Elaine Gunsch,

orden& Radisson

Wendell Dyck, Ilene Youchezin, Heather Penner, Ed Neufeld and Heather Dyck. Heather Penner reported on grants received. The museum benefitted from a Young Canada Works grants for summer students and SaskCulture support for a total of $10,535.55. Natalie Anderson was the 2020 student. Ruben Rempel’s financial report showed income of $65,147. Of that, $52,210 was from the Helen Sutherland memorial donation plus term deposits and chequing of $31,096. Expenses totalled $21,487. Total in terms was $68,137. Ed Neufeld gave an account of work completed

in 2020, which included floor replacement, painting and door repair at the schoolhouse plus work on the display of miniature replicas of village of Borden buildings. Heather Penner reported on the programs and activities that included a spring supper, online photo contest and a listing of historic places to visit in RM of Great Bend. Brenda Tumbach’s report on displays outlined progress on the Fosters Store and Rempel Brothers replicas from the 1920s that came from the WDM in Saskatoon. She also said a general recreation display has been retired, a train display returned to Ed Golding and the 4-H and vintage toys displays were condensed. Cyril Saunders reported the Threshermen’s Club planted grain, potatoes and pumpkins. A digging day was held in the fall. He thanked all those who

In late 2020 Affinity Credit Union gave the Borden School $500 toward the purchase of more Chromebooks and another Chromebook charging cart. Lynette Schmidt of Affinity (right) also gave her $200 employee community spirit fund to them as well. In this picture she is presenting to her daughter, who is a Grade 10 student in Borden. With more online learning and no shared desktop computers in the school each students is assigned a Chromebook. The Affinity Credit Union donation will help in their fundraising efforts for this large purchase. Photos submitted

assisted with weeding through the summer. The museum plans to open June 5, but probably by appointment as was the case in 2020 and they plan

When nothing comes to those who wait

Continued from Page 17 Business Bureau to see the online seller’s rating, complaints and customer reviews. - Be cautious: Check the contact details such as address, email, and phone number, on the seller’s website. A reputable seller is more likely to provide their contact information. - Pay by credit card: A credit card provides addi-

tional protections and allows you to dispute charges. Debit cards and prepaid cards don’t offer the same protections. - Shop around: Purchase products from a reputable seller. The tips above can help identify and avoid non-delivery scams. But these scams can be tough to detect. Here’s what you can do if you think you’ve been had.

After you’ve bought Try contacting the seller. Most businesses are legitimate and want you to receive the item you’ve paid for. Keep good records, including the name of the website you ordered from, claims about shipping times, the date you placed the order, copies or screenshots of correspondence, and receipts. If you paid by credit

card, you can try disputing the charge with your credit card company. The Competition Bureau looks into false and misleading claims in the

to host a few outdoor activities. Affinity Credit Union, Borden Branch, donated $500 to Borden School to buy Chromebooks and a

charging cart and Lynette Schmidt, an employee of Affinity Credit Union, donated $200 from her employee Community Spirit Fund to the school.

marketplace. If you believe you have been misled, report it to the Competition Bureau. You can also file a complaint with the

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC); the Better Business Bureau or your provincial / territorial consumer protection agency.

Chilly Rabbit

Is this bush rabbit showing signs of spring? Photo by Louise Lundberg

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 19

Second Front

Sask. leaning towards first dose strategy for COVID-19 vaccine By Brian Zinchuk

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter / Estevan Mercury

The Government of Saskatchewan is clearly leaning towards a firstdose COVID-19 vaccination strategy, getting as many people vaccinated with their initial dose as possible, before following up with a booster shot much later to maximize immunity. Doing so would maximize the number of people immunized as quickly as possible, allowing nearly all Saskatchewan residents to receive their first shot by June and allowing things to begin to return to normal. However, that would mean

stretching the period between doses from the three or four weeks, as they are supposed to be administered, to as much as four months. Premier Scott Moe and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab referenced this strategy numerous times during the regular COVID-19 briefing held at the Legislature on March 2. Shahab pointed to “great information from the (United Kingdom), from Quebec, from (British Columbia), on how effective one dose is for as long as four months.” He expects future recommendations from partners, including the federal

government, to support delaying the second dose up to four months. “And what that will do is that will really accelerate our first dose program, and if you’re able to do that, we can see most of our population 18 and older, potentially getting your first dose by June,” Shahab said. “And I think that would really help us in really putting the pandemic behind us. And like the premier said, I think we all need to then … be ready to take any vaccine that is available, when our age cohort comes up in the sequencing.” Shahab posed the question of how you can maximize the population ben-

Seniors Get the Jab

Seniors were able to receive vaccinations by appointment at a drive-thru clinic on the weekend just off Highway 16 in Battleford. Photo submitted

The Battlefords following the trend

As of Tuesday, a week of COVID-19 statistics for the North West, which includes the Battlefords, as reported on the Government of Saskatchewan Dashboard, shows the number of active cases followed provincial trends, as well the trend generally in the North West zone. March 2, in the Battlefords, subzone 4 North West zone, there were 36. March 1 saw 31, There were 35 cases on Feb. 28 and 40 on Feb. 27, there were 39 on Feb. 26 and 48 on Feb. 25.

efit with a known supply of vaccines. He said, “The way we can maximize that is giving one dose to the vast majority of people by June, and then completing the second doses July onwards. And this will help us prevent a potentially devastating, variant fueled, third wave. “And we’ll also maximize population-level protection, at no sacrifice to individual protection, because that is critical as well. Right now, the aim is clinical protection, which means hospitalization, death, at a clinical individual level, but as more and more people get vaccinated, you know, obviously we want to see the population impact of that as well, that kind of community immunity impacts. And the most efficient way to get that, based on strong scientific advice, is to give everyone one dose.” Moe said a four-month interval between first and second doses would mean virtually all Saskatchewan residents could be provided with their first dose of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccines by the end of June. If you add AstraZeneca and perhaps Johnson & Johnson vaccines (the second has not yet been approved in Canada, but has been approved in the United States), Moe said, “Then we’re starting to look at something in early June, where we could have everyone in the province provided with the opportunity to receive their first dose of vaccine.” “Understanding the efficacy of that first dose, and some of the data that is coming in, and continues to come in, and the protection that it provides, this really is a game changer for the dates that we can really strongly have some serious discussions about the measures that we have in place and what that looks like, over the course of the next number of weeks as opposed to having that conversation over the course of the next number of months,” Moe said. Oldest first Key to this first dose strategy is getting the old-

est people in Saskatchewan vaccinated first, which the Province has already been working on. To that end, Moe announced that first doses have been delivered to every long-term care facility in Saskatchewan, and 91 per cent of their residents had been vaccinated. The remaining nine per cent either refused or were unable to take if at this time. A further 53 per cent of those long-term care residents had received their second shot and are now considered fully vaccinated. Moe called it an important milestone along the way to the pandemic being over. “We’ve also delivered vaccines to 90 per cent of the personal care homes in the province. About 78 per cent of the residents have received their first dose of the vaccine, and about 43 per cent have now received both shots,” Moe added. The province is expected to receive about 112,000 vaccines Pfizer and Moderna in the month of March, and a further 15,000 doses of the newly-approved AstraZeneca vaccine next week. That vaccine, which is approved for ages from 18 to 64, will likely be used for that age group, although Shahab pointed out that one should accept whatever vaccine is available when it is their turn, and that the United Kingdom has been using it for people 65 and older with success. However, by the time Saskatchewan gets larger volumes of the AstraZeneca vaccine, most of its population 65 and older should have already been vaccinated with the other vaccines. Moe said Saskatchewan has been leading the nation in getting shots in arms, with over 100 per cent of doses received having been administered, as compared to 86 per cent for the next leading province. He said there is very little wastage. Appointments Moe said appointments for vaccination will be soon available online or by telephone, meaning eligible residents over 70 years of age will soon be able to

book appointments. “We expect to launch that appointment system next week, so for everyone who is waiting to get your shot, and is in the Phase 1 category, we are working to get you vaccinated as quickly as possible.” Vaccinations of elderly residents should lead to a continued decline in serious cases and hospitalizations, Moe said, noting, “The truth is that the vaccines are working. They are reducing transmission. They are reducing serious outcomes. And that’s very encouraging for all of us.” Relaxation of measures Moe noted that many people have asked for a relaxation in current public health measures, in particular those limiting household gatherings. He said, “I would say to this is we’re very close to making, and finalizing, these decisions. I’ve spoken to Dr. Shahab about this frequently. He just wants to see the new case and hospitalization numbers remain stable for a few more days. If that occurs, we should have more to say about household restrictions, possibly by early next week. We’ll be taking a close look at all of the other public health orders that are set to expire on March, the 19th. “So I’m asking everyone in this province to hang tight for just a few more days. The next number of weeks, not months, we’re going to start to see things change, and change significantly. Spring is coming. Vaccines are on the way. We are on the path to getting life back to normal, as we know it, but we’re just not quite there yet.” Moe added, “When it is your turn, and when you are offered a vaccine, there is only one answer that should come out of your mouth and that is ‘Yes.’ “They’re all equally effective, the vaccines that are that are available, and a vaccine in our arm is far better than a vaccine that’s sitting on the shelf, or not being administered to someone here in the province,” Moe said.

Page 20 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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WILKINS: Marion Elizabeth Wilkins (Dick). On February 12th, 2021, Marion passed away peacefully at home with husband (Rick), daughter (Sandra) and son (Byron) by her side. Marion was born in North Battleford Saskatchewan, on February 12th, 1942, to Mary and John Dick. Marion grew up and spent the majority of her formative years in Landis and Saskatoon. On July 28th, 1973, Marion married Rick Wilkins and they settled in North Battleford where they spent most of their years. Marion worked at Eatons in North Battleford for many years where she made numerous lifelong friends. Marion enjoyed being a lunch supervisor at a few schools in the Battlefords area. She was the first supervisor for the newly created lunch program at Bready School which became so successful that other schools followed suit. Over the years Marion was able to make special connections with a large number of students, both young and old. One of Marion’s favourite pastimes was camping. Marion and Rick went on a number of camping adventures across North America where they met countless friends. Marion’s pride and joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Marion and Rick moved a few times eventually settling in Coaldale, Alberta. Upon retirement Marion and Rick were able to spend many winters in Yuma Arizona. She became ill 4 years ago and decided to fulfill some of her dreams by travelling to a number of her bucket list locations. Included among those where Hawaii and an Alaskan Cruise, which she regarded as the best trip ever! Marion’s love for dogs was always on display as she always had a dog by her side right to the end. Marion knew exactly what she wanted in life and enjoyed it to the end. She was a very strong woman and people knew where they stood with her. On February 11th, 2021 Marion told Sandra and Byron: “I entered this world on February 12th, I am going to leave it on the same day” and she did just that. Adored by many, and loved by all, the world lost a true sparkle that day. Rest in peace Marion, never to be forgotten. Predeceased by her parents Mary (Keller) and John Dick, her two brothers Mervin and Jack Dick, two nieces, Susan and Shelley Dick. She leaves to cherish her husband Rick. Daughter, Sandra (Monty) Berger; grand-daughter Ashley (Josh) Roy, great grand-children Phoenix and Chanel; grand-daughter Sara (Brian) Bauche, great grand-daughter Vetra. Daughter Jayleen (Patrick) Guedo; grandson Dean (Andrea) Guedo, great grandchild Rory; grandson Devin Guedo. Son Byron (Christina) Wilkins; grand-children Mackenzie, Benjamin and Joshua. Sister Annette (Mike) Armstrong and two brothers Ronald (Sharon) Dick and Ernest (Shirley) Dick. Sister-inlaw Diane Dick. She will also be greatly missed by countless nieces, nephews and friends. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Prairie Pooches Dog Rescue Box 139, Cando, SK S0K 0V0 ppr@ prairiepoochesrescue.com. Hannas Haven 231 Whitecap Terrace, Saskatoon, SK S7M 5C9 hannashavenanimalrescue@gmail.com. Cancer Society or Heart and Stroke. Celebration of life will be held at a later date. __________________________________________________

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KNOWLES: Robert Ralph Knowles passed away peacefully at Harwood Manor on February 24, 2021 at the age of 88 years. Left to cherish his memory are his loving children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Dan (Sandra) Knowles; Jeff (Shawna), Carter & Cody. Cory (Justine), Kennedy. Christie (Dustin) Wolf. Jim (Surj) Knowles; Jamie (Kevin) Lewis, Kiera & Hailey. Colin Knowles. Cheryl (Allan) Laing; Alison (Jeff) Michel, Carson & Morgan. Ryan Laing. Also survived by sisters-in-laws Teresa Engler & Cordellia Crittenden & brothers-inlaws Don Engler & Don Nolin and numerous nieces & nephews & their families. He was predeceased by his loving wife Geraldine, parents Robert & Jane Knowles. Brothers David & Donald. Sisterin-law Sheila Nolin. Bob was born in Wilkie, SK on October 5, 1932 to Robert & Jane Knowles. He grew up on the family farm south of Rockhaven and attended Weewona one room school. After leaving school he pursued his lifelong passion for farming. On December 17, 1955 he married Geraldine Skotheim, the apple of his eye. They were blessed with three children Dan, Jim & Cheryl. Bob ran the Rockhaven rotary snow plow for many years. He enjoyed having agriculture exchange students come to work on the farm from Denmark for several years. He loved to share his farming knowledge with them and learning about their country & culture. The family enjoyed many camping trips & visiting relatives. Bob was an accomplished farmer, talented mechanic, carpenter & a jack of all trades. As well as growing crops, he raised hogs for many years. Being the kind gentle soul he was, he took time to listen to others and offer advice when asked. He possessed a dry sense of humor and had a sharp wit. He had a strong work ethic & was always willing to help others. He took pride in his work & liked nothing better than being out on the land. In their retirement years, Bob and Gerry enjoyed travelling, and visited England, Hawaii, California and Mexico. They spent many winters in Yuma, Arizona, travelling south with their RV and enjoying the sights along the way until Gerry’s passing in 1993. He remained actively farming with Dan until the fall of 2013 when he moved to Caleb Village in North Battleford where he enjoyed the social activities and made many new friends. He enjoyed many trips back to the farm during the busy seasons in a supervisory capacity. In June of 2017 he had to move to Harwood Manor due to advancing Parkinson’s disease. While at Harwood he enjoyed the musical entertainment and meeting new people. Bob took great pride in all his children, grandchildren & great-grandchildren and loved to spend time with all of them. The family of the late Robert Knowles would like to thank the staff at both Caleb Village & Harwood Manor for their compassionate care and support during his time there. A private family service was held on Monday, March 1, 2021 at ‘The Garden Chapel’ in North Battleford with Rev. Dexter van Dyke officiating. Interment took place at Rockhaven Cemetery, Rockhaven, SK. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: BUH Foundation, Box 1358, North Battleford, SK S9A 3L8. buhfoundation.com or Parkinson’s Department at Royal University Hospital, 103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8. Condolences can be sent to www. eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements were entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306446-4200). Card of Thanks Thank you to all who cared for Dad, and to all friends, neighbours & family for condolences, thoughts, prayers, flowers, donations & food. Dan, Jim, Cheryl

www.newsoptimist.ca 892-104th Street | North Battleford | 306-445-7261 T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

DERENOSKI: It is with great sadness the family of Mr. Ron Derenoski announce his sudden passing on Monday, February 22, 2021 at the age of 68 years. Private Vigil of Prayer was held Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 7:00 p.m and A Private Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, February 26, 2021 both held at St. Joseph Calasanctius Roman Catholic Church with Father Phinh Do as celebrant. A link to the live streamed service is posted to Eternal Memories Facebook Page and a link of the recorded service is available on www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Private Family Interment followed at the City Cemetery. Ron is lovingly remembered by his wife of 45 years, Deb; their children: daughter, Janet (Kyle) children: Sydney, Kaden, Landen; son, Michael (Kim) – children: Lexi, Payton, Reid, Brock; son, Christopher (Robyn); mother, Rose Derenoski; brothers: Leon (Ingrid), Garry (Dana) and Gordie (Laurel) Derenoski; sister, Val Derenoski. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in memory of Mr. Ron Derenoski can be directed to St. Joseph Calasanctius Church- Building Fund 1942 98th St North Battleford, SK S9A 0N4 Condolences for the family can be left at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Trevor Watts of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

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WICK: In Loving Memory of Judi Wick, born November 16, 1948 at Saskatoon, SK., passed away February 24, 2021 in North Battleford, SK. Judi is remembered by her Husband, Jim Wick; Brother, Jim Zoney (Hazel); Children: Lana Wick (Ira), Tracy Wick, Ryan Wick; Grandchildren: Taylor Spielman (Stephen) (Children - Memphis, Zayla and Acacia); Zachary Spielman (Ashley) (Children - Scarlett, Rhea); Mackenzie Wick; Alexa Chakita-Bird; brother-in-law, Wayne Wick; many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents: Nicholas & Marie Zoney; in-laws: Andrew & Norine Wick; brother, Ray Zoney; brother-in-law and sister, Mel & Joyce (Zoney) Hauck; brother-in-law, Alvin Wick and nephew, Jeffrey Hauck. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorials are requested to Diabetes Canada www.diabetes.ca 104-2301 Avenue C North, Saskatoon, SK S7L 5Z5. Condolences can be sent to www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements are entrusted to Robert MacKay of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium (306-446-4200).

BEILMAN: It is with heavy hearts the family of Victor Beilman announces his passing Saturday, February 20, 2021 at the age of 85 years. Victor is survived by his wife, Jean; sons: Keith (Sue) and Wayne; daughter Tara; grandchildren: Drew, Taylor and Kayla; great-granddaughter, Lilly and sister, Valeria. He is predeceased by his sons: Shawn and Glenn and daughter-in-law, Twila Mawson. Vic was a teacher who taught in many places throughout Saskatchewan. He also coached hockey and baseball with many days spent at rinks and fields around the province. He was famous for making up stories about how the towns were named during long road trips. He would laugh when doubts were expressed by his passengers. We will forever remember Vic’s fondness for coffeeing with his many friends, card playing, storytelling, horses and muting the television during commercials. We are so thankful to everyone who has been reaching out and sharing their memories of Vic. It means the world to us. Mr. Rice summed it up quite well: “We always enjoyed his interesting observations and witty anecdotes with the conversation always getting very entertaining when Vic’s decision to take an opposite viewpoint would unleash lively and animated discussion!”. An informal get together in Vic’s memory will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Victor Beilman can be directed to River Height Lodge 2001 99th St North Battleford, SK S9A 0S3 Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Vanessa Macnab of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 21

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OBITUARIES

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

ROBERT PETER HAARSMA (1939-2021): It is with great sadness the family of Mr. Robert Peter Haarsma announce is passing at the Battlefords District Care Centre at the age of 81 years. Bob passed away in the grip of Covid – 19. He was loved and will be sadly missed by many. He is survived by his brother, Ken; loving daughter, Catrina; sons: Derek (Tiffany), Ken, Colin; step-children, Rita, Sally, Anita and Darrel; grandchildren: Carmen, Thomas, Sarah, James, Kyle & Thalecia. There will be a celebration of Life Service in the future when Covid lifts. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Battlefords District Care Centre c/o BDCC Resident Council Po Box 69 Battleford, SK S0M 0E0. May your suffering be over and you rest in peace. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Vanessa Macnab – Funeral Director Apprentice of Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium.

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com. PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

FOR SALE - MISC

HEALTH SERVICES

FARM SERVICES

HIP/KNEE Replacement? Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $2,500 yearly tax credit and up to $50,000 Lump sum refund.

CERTIFIED SEED Wheat

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

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

1-844-453-5372 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

AgPRO Seeds buying HEATED CANOLA. TOP PRICES PAID IN SK FOR 15-100% HEATED. On farm pickup, prompt payment! Price inquiries: 1(306)873-0481 or email: agproseeds@gmail.com

In the Estate of Marc Omar Shokeir, late of Battleford, Saskatchewan, deceased.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WANTED

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF FAKE NEWS!

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

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

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

Protect yourself with media literacy in 4 simple steps.

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

Old Mobile home or camper-trailer PH/TXT 306-220-0429 or 306283-4747. Langham, sk.

LIVESTOCK Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 yr. old Bulls on moderate growing Ration. Performance Info available. - Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards Valleyhills Angus Glaslyn, SK. Phone: (306)4410946 or (306)342-4407

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 31st day of March, 2021. Personal Representative for the Estate of Marc Omar Shokeir c/o MLT Aikins LLP Suite 1201, 409 – 3rd Avenue South Saskatoon, SK • S7K 5R5

David Foster

May 5, 1939 March 1, 2020 It’s been a year since you left us Dear father, husband and friend Every day we remember your love to no end Your strength stays with us when We are sad and blue, we know that You are here, and love us, too. Family of David Foster

CALEB VILLAGE 1 bedroom condo in Caleb Village, with optional garage use. For more info call 306-441-7296.

SUITES FOR RENT 2 bedroom basement suite rent. 1632 101st street. Fridge stove and W/D. References quired. Available in March. 306-446-8866.

for and reCall

MEETINGS

COMING EVENTS

WANTED

DEAD OR ALIVE

Turtleford Credit Union Limited Annual General Meeting

March 29th @ 6:30pm Meeting will be held virtually. We ask that you please contact the branch to register by March 26th @ 306-845-2105, virtual access information wiII then be provided.

“The Best” God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around you and He whispered “Come to Me” With tearful eyes we watched you. We watched you fade away. Although we loved you dearly, We could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, Hard-working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He chose to take the best. It’s lonesome here without you we miss you more each day. Life doesn’t seem the same since you have gone away. When days are sad and lonely and everything goes wrong, we seem to hear you whisper “Cheer Up and Carry On” Each time we see your picture you seem to smile and say, “Don’t cry, I’m in God’s hands, we’ll meet again someday”

Lovingly remembered and forever missed. Your family.

Canadian Prairie Pickers are once again touring the area!

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets. Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$ $

Bonded since 1967

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

PAYING HIGHEST PRICES To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit call

Kellie at 1-778-257-8647 ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society

FUNERAL SERVICES

Hop! Hop! Hop! Did you know we have bunnies!? We have some BIG bunnies and some YOUNG bunnies all looking for their furrever homes! They are $80 spayed/neutered, and microchipped. Call the shelter to find out how to hop away with one of these wonderful bunnies!

Call the Animal Shelter 306.446.2700

February 16, 1954 - February 29, 2020

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

APARTMENTS/CONDOS FOR RENT

Watch the video at SPOTfakenews.ca

IN MEMORIAM

Barley

FEED & SEED

Expert Help:

Battleford shop, steel framed, 75’x50’ - fenced 1.4 acres, two 14’ electric drive thru doors, hoist and compressor incl. Offices, two bathrooms, shower. Excellent repair welding and truck shop. Reduced $329,000. 306-446-4462 or 306441-5552

FEED & SEED

Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium

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

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

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

Serving Families with Dignity, Respect & Compassion eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca

Page 22 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grain. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, 1-888-483-8789. FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942. Round Bales: 250 gfd. Oats, 300 Wheat straw, 200 Oat straw. All net wrapped. Phone/Text 306291-9395 Langham, SK.

THURSDAY’S BEST

ONLINE

www.newsoptimist.ca

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Heavy Duty Mechanics required: Late model, clean CAT, JD equip; winch, dump, gravel trucks, and trailers. Both camp and shop locations; R & B provided Wage negotiable. Clean drivers abstract a must. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

RESORT VILLAGE OF AQUADEO

Currently accepting applications for

Public Notice of Zoning Bylaw Amendment

CROP HAIL ADJUSTERS for the 2021 hail season. (July - October)

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Resort Village of Aquadeo intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007, to amend bylaw No. 18/89, known as the Zoning Bylaw (ZB).

Semi-retired or retired this job is for you! Competitive salary, all expenses & mileage paid, health spending account and pension plan. We provide extensive training using our industry leading crop hail adjusting program. Email: dtiefenbach@smhi.ca for application form and job overview. 306-569-1852 ext 170.

INTENT: The proposed amendment is to accommodate a consolidation of two (2) parcels by rezoning a Commercial lot to a residential lot within the Municipality.

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

FEED & SEED

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AFFECTED LAND: The affected lands by this amendment are LOT 1, BLOCK 1, PLAN 59B05537, Civic address: 102 Aqualane Ave.

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NEWS-OPTIMIST

REASON: To amend the Zoning Bylaw District Map to accommodate the proposed consolidation. Rezone the proposed parcel from the C – Commercial District to R1 – Residential District.

Serving the Battlefords since 1908

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS BY-ELECTION RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF BLAINE LAKE #434

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

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of: Councillor for Division No. 2 will be received by the Appointed Nomination Officers at the municipal office in Blaine Lake during office hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. from March 01, 2021 until March 17, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. local time. Nomination forms may be obtained from the municipal office at 118 Main Street, Blaine Lake, SK, or can be printed off the RM’s website: rmofblainelake434.ca Nomination forms must be properly executed and accompanied by a Public Disclosure Statement and a current Criminal Record Check. Dated this 26th day of February, 2021. Jennifer Gutknecht (Returning Officer)

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Resort Village of Aquadeo office between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Wednesday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays. Draft copies of the proposed bylaw are available from the Resort Village office (hard copy at cost). The Resort Village office is located at 1006 Highway 4 North, Cochin, SK S0M 0L0.

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

PUBLIC NOTICE RM of Mervin No. 499 Public Notice Zoning Bylaw Amendment 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 (ZB).

INTENT: The proposed amendment would rezone portions of SW ¼ 23-53-19-W3M from CON–Conservation District to LD1 – Lakeshore Development 1 District.

AFFECTED LAND: The affected lands are within SW ¼ 23-53-19-W3M Exts. 56 and 101, lying south and east of Municipal Highway 795 between Powm Beach and Kivimaa-Moonlight Bay on the west side of Turtle Lake, and adjacent to the area known as Turtle Cove. A copy of the proposed amendment and a map of the affected lands is available for viewing here: www.rmofmervin.ca/planning-and-development/public-notification/.

REASON: The landowner has made application to the subdivision approving authority (Community Planning branch, Government Relations) to subdivide a portion of the subject land to accommodate a proposed 15-lot residential subdivision. Rezoning of the subject land is required to accommodate the proposed lot density and residential use. Final subdivision design and lot density is subject to the approval of the approving authority and may be subject to change. 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.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at 1:30 PM in the RM office located in the Town of Turtleford to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendments. Council will consider written and emailed comments at the meeting. Due to limited space in Council chambers and COVID social distancing requirements, Council is intending to have an online participation component to the public hearing for those wishing to make verbal representation. Interested parties are required to register for the online component and are encouraged to contact the RM office or its Planner for details. The deadline for receipt of comments, and requests for online participation must be received by the RM office or its Planner by April 9, 2021. For additional information, please contact the Municipal Planner at (306) 397-1000 or yvonne@northboundplanning.ca. Issued at the Town of Turtleford this 22nd day of February 2021 S. Yvonne Prusak, BASc, MA, MCIP, RPP Municipal Planner RM of Mervin No. 499

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, at 5:15 PM Via Zoom to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed amendment. Please contact the Resort Village office to register for the Zoom meeting. If you wish to comment on this proposal, please do so in writing prior to Friday, March 12, 2021. For additional information, please contact Brian de Montbrun, Administrator at (306) 386-2942 or aquadeoadmin@gmail.com or the Municipal Planning office at 306-397-1000 or yvonne@northboundplanning.ca . S. Yvonne Prusak, BASc, MA, MCIP, RPP Municipal Planner February 25, 2021

To book Classified Advertising call

306-445-7261

Public Notice Tax Enforcement List

Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 in the Province of Saskatchewan NOTICE is hereby given under the Tax Enforcement Act, that unless arrears and costs appearing opposite the land described in the following list are fully paid within 60 days of this notice, the Administrator will proceed to register an interest based on a Tax Lien in the Land Titles Registry as required by Legislation. (ALL West of the 3rd Meridian) Property Description/Section TWP/Lot RGE/Blk Arrears Delmas, C3473

Costs

Total

5 to 9

$2,194.25 $10.00

$2,204.25

SW-05

$425.17 $10.00

$435.17

NE-15

$7,542.01 $10.00

$7,552.01

NE 24 (Pcl D)

$12,783.80 $10.00

$12,793.80

1 to 4

$6,472.38 $10.00

$6,482.38

SE-12 (Pcl D)

$20,601.40 $10.00

$20,611.40

Section 6

$8,889.74 $10.00

$8,889.74

NE 12

$5,204.46 $10.00

$5,204.46

11 to 13

$2,842.70 $10.00

$5,204.46

$6,112.62 $10.00

$6,122.62

Delmas, C3474

Delmas, E2736 NE 02 (Pcl A)

Dated this 28th day of February, 2021.

Betty Johnson/Administrator

Community Safety and Crime Prevention

GET INVOLVED!

Men have a responsibility to stop male violence against women. A message from the Canada Safety Council

Regional News-Optimist TENDERS

Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 PUBLIC NOTICE Sale of Tax Title Property Tenders will be received by the Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 for the following property: Hamlet of Delmas; Lots 15 & 16, Block 4, Plan C3474 Extension 0 Land only, contains no buildings. Include: Purchaser’s full name(s), mailing address, phone number. Purchase price tendered. A deposit equal to 10% of the purchase price value by certified cheque, money order or bank draft. Deposits will be returned to unsuccessful bidders. All tenders are to be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Tender” Submit To: RM of Battle River #438, Box 159, Battleford, Saskatchewan, S0M 0E0 Deadline: 4 pm, April 15th, 2021. The successful purchaser must enter into a purchase agreement for sale. Failure to conclude the transactions will result in forfeit of their deposit as liquidation damages. This property is sold on an “as is” basis with no conditions, free & clear. The Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 reserves the right to reject any or all tenders. Betty Johnson/Administrator LIVESTOCK

Provost Livestock Exchange The Livestock Market Serving Western Saskatchewan and Eastern Alberta

Tuesday, March 9th @ 1 p.m. @ PLE in Provost, AB. - Johnson Ranching 8th Annual Bull Sale On Offer: Yearling Black, Red & Fullblood Simmental Bulls & Yearling Charolais Bulls & Open Palpated Replacement Heifers Wednesday, March 10th @ 2 p.m. @ The Farm North of Edgerton, AB. - Pederson Livestock Bull Sale On Offer: Black Angus Bulls & Open Palpated Replacement Heifers Thursday, March 11th @ 1:30 p.m. @ at the Farm; Compeer, AB. - McKeary Charolais, Diamond L Ranch & Fleming Livestock Corp. On Offer: Charolais & Red Angus Bulls Wednesday, March 17th @ 1:00 p.m. @ Brownfield, AB. - Adair Ranch 28th Annual Bull Sale On Offer: 44 Two Year Old Simmental Bulls & 7 Two Year old Angus Bulls

All Bull Sales will be Broadcasted on www.DLMS.ca. Please call the office at 780-753-2369 or any of the fieldmen with any questions regarding the bull sales.

Provost Livestock Exchange 780-753-2369 • Fax 780-753-2493

Email plec@plecattle.com • www.plecattle.com

Darcy Lakevold • (780)-753-8669 Dean Lawes • (780)-753-0803 Casey Lawes • (780)-753-1466 Wayne Black • (403)-575-0200 Jesse Lawes • (780)-753-8590

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 23

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Employment Opportunity R.M. of Douglas No. 436 SEASONAL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR/TRUCK DRIVER

The R.M. of Douglas No. 436 is accepting applications for a Seasonal Equipment Operator, preference for someone with a Class 1A. The position will commence on or around May 3, 2021 or potentially mid-April. A class 1A driver’s license would be an asset. Applicants should be competent in operating a Tandem Gravel truck with experience in operating heavy equipment. Must be Self-motivated, willing to work long hours, perform duties as assigned, and be available to commence employment mid to late April.

Submit qualifications, related work experience, a driver’s abstract, and salary expected by April 6, 2021 to: R.M. of Douglas No. 436 Box 964 Speers, Sask. S0M 2V0 Email: rm436@littleloon.ca For additional information call 306-246-2171. Applicants are thanked in advance for their interest in the position, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 2 -Family/Community Outreach Workers

1-Adult worker in Little Pine First Nation 1-Youth worker in Poundmaker Cree Nation Keyanow Child and Family Centre inc. is seeking application for (2) highly motivated individuals who are willing to meet the challenges as a Family/Youth Community Outreach Worker on Little Pine First Nation and Poundmaker Cree Nation and Lucky Man Cree Nation. These positions are integral part of the Family Enhancement team and will work under the supervision of the Family Enhancement Manager. Outreach Workers will provide community-based prevention and intervention services to children, youth, families, and the community that are aimed at reducing those risk factor that may bring a child into care thereby helping to keep children safely in the home and to improve the quality of life. Our agency has Zero Tolerance of Drugs including Marijuana, and Alcohol. The positions will require day, evening and/or weekend work and will be based primarily in the community. Responsibilities will include but not limited to: 1. Early Intervention: early identification of children, youth and families in need of services and the provision of effective service. 2. Community Prevention and Intervention. 3. Program Implementation: project leadership in the action plan developed with community. Qualifications: • Certiﬁcation in Addictions, Community Development or Youth Care Worker; Community Wellness Worker, Mental Health and Wellness, and/or equivalent. • A minimum of two years’ experience with working with children, youth, and families. • Several years’ experience working with crisis intervention, counselling, support groups. • Experience with community outreach and partnership development • Demonstrated ability to work with community to design programs and projects • Knowledge of addictions, domestic violence and abuse, grief and trauma. • Knowledge of the Cree language, culture and traditions is a definite asset. • Strong interpersonal skills • Strong verbal and written communication skills. • Computer skills. • Criminal Record Check • Vulnerable Sector Check • Valid Driver’s License and a clear Drivers Abstract. Qualified applicants please submit resume plus 2-professional and 2-personal references, a cleared RCMP Criminal & Vulnerable Sector Record Check and a Driver’s Abstract to: HR Personnel at P.O. Box 1426, North Battleford, Sk. S9A 3Ml or e-mail: joyces@kcfcentre.com or fax 306-445-5568. Deadline for applications is March 12, 2021 We thank all applications and wish to advise that only those individuals who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

Hiring

Journey-Person Ag/Heavy Duty Technician

a family owned and operated business is seeking to hire a journey-person ag/heavy duty technician to add to our ever-growing team in North Battleford. Offering a out going positive work atmosphere with the flexibilities and offerings no other company can compete with. We offer: • Competitive wages • Yearly tool allowance • Health and dental plan • RSP plan Responsibilities: • Providing service to customer and dealer machines • Being able to work as a team and independently • Able to read and understand hydraulic and electric schematics • Drive to never stop learning • Capable of providing tremendous customer service • Willing to go on service calls and work overtime Wage will be determined based on experience. Only selected candidates will be contacted for interview, job may be filled before the closing date. Apply by emailing resume to pfecorey@sasktel.net.

KEYANOW CHILD AND FAMILY CENTRE INC. JOB OPPORTUNITY Family Preservation/Navigator Worker The Keyanow Family Enhancement Unit requires a caring and compassionate individual to work with families experiencing challenges that may put them at risk of becoming involved in the child welfare system and need supportive services. Using a family-centered, strengthsbased assessment approach that focuses on the whole family that values family participation and experience, and respects the family’s culture and ethnicity. The Family Preservation/Navigator Worker, under the direction of the Family Enhancement Manager, is responsible for providing core, flexible, short-term, intensive preventative home based services and support to families in which children are at imminent risk so as to keep children safe and to avoid having to place a child in care. Must demonstrated the ability to build effective relationships with children, young people and families including Elders. Qualifications: A BISW or successful completion of a certificate, diploma or degree program in the human services field and a minimum of three years’ experience working with First Nations families and community. The applicant must have a demonstrated knowledge in: a) Assessment, care planning, counselling, referral, case management and monitoring; b) Implementing awareness and educational workshops, activities and events. c) Working with families, children and youth, community groups, volunteers and agencies; An ability to speak and/or understand Cree is a definite asset. Please submit resume, 2 professional and 2 personal references, clear Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check and a Drivers Abstract to the Executive Assistant at: Email: joyces@kcfcentre.com Fax: (306) 445-5568 Address: P.O. Box 1426 North Battleford, Sask. S9A 3Ml Deadline for Application: March 12, 2021 We thank all applicants and wish to advise that only those individuals who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

TO BOOK CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

CALL 306-445-7261

Page 24 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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Snow storm preferable to its sand equivalent

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

MARTINS LAKE REGIONAL PARK HELP WANTED/REQUEST FOR TENDERS

Martins Lake Regional Park is accepting resumes/ tenders for the 2021 camping season for the following positions:

From May 1st to September 15th, 2021. Please send your written application with intended hours of operations, experience, references & proposed lease expectations to

Meota Regional Park Email applications to: meotapark@sasktel.net Deadline for applications is March 12th, 2021 For more information call: (306) 441-3994

Please specify Concession Lease in email.

JOB OPPORTUNITY FAMILY SERVICE CHILD PROTECTION WORKER Keyanow Child and Family Centre Inc. is seeking application for a highly motivated individual who is willing to meet the challenges of Child Protection on Little Pine First Nation, Poundmaker and Lucky Man Cree Nation. In this position, you will be responsible for investigating allegations of neglect, physical or sexual abuse; assessing family function; determining risks to children's safety; implementing intervention plans to address child protection issues; and providing support services to families. When necessary you will initiate court proceedings and work through this process with the family. You will be required to travel and work flexible hours. Our Agency has Zero Tolerance of Drugs including Marijuana, and Alcohol. Must have a BSW or BISW. Qualified applicants please submit resume plus 2-professional and 2- personal references, a clear RCMP Criminal & Vulnerable Sector Record Check and a clear Driver's Abstract to: HR Personnel at P.O. Box 1426, North Battleford, Sk. S9A 3M1 or e-mail: joyces@kcfcentre.com or fax 306-445-5568. Deadline for applications is March 12, 2021. We thank all applications and wish to advise that only those individuals who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

SEASONAL GRADER OPERATOR The R.M. of Meota No. 468 is accepting applications for the position of Seasonal Grader Operator. The position starts May 3, 2021 and continues to October 31, 2021. Applicants must possess the following qualifications: -

Must hold a minimum valid Class 5 driver’s license. Class 1A or 3A license will be considered an asset. Driver’s abstract will be required. Minimum two years’ experience of road maintenance Heavy Equipment Operator Certification will be an asset Knowledge of equipment safety Knowledge and ability to maintain and repair equipment Knowledge of road maintenance and construction techniques Ability to work as a team player as well as work alone Strong work ethic and high level of personal integrity

Interested applicants are invited to forward a cover letter and resume by Wednesday, March 17, 2021, including qualifications, experience and three references to: R.M. of Meota No. 468 Box 80 MEOTA, Saskatchewan S0M 1X0 Telephone: (306) 892-2061 Email: cao@rmmeota468.ca Salary will be based on experience and qualifications. We thank all applicants, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

1) GOLF CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT: Seeking Cook/ Manager, being a full time position, for fully equipped kitchen and restaurant facility. May – September. Must be certified food handler. Will be responsible for the staffing and operations of the restaurant and golf course.

By Elaine Woloshyn

2) BEACH CONCESSION: Leased operator. June – September. Must be certified food handler.

Correspondent

3) PARK MAINTENACE: 2 positions open – Full time hours. May – September. General park maintenance for campground and golf course including grass cutting, tree trimming, equipment maintenance, janitorial up keep of washrooms/shower room, painting, beach maintenance, maintaining water system, testing water and other various duties.

Hello from sunny Yuma, Ariz. At times there are nasty, whirling winds, stirring up the desert sand, making driving in the foothills a chalenge. I would prefer to drive in a snowy blizzard, because the blasting sand leaves indentations in the car’s exterior paint. This is a phenomenon many locals here at-

For more information call Rick at 306-321-5824 or Christie at 306-221-4457. Email resume or tenders to martinslake@sasktel.net by March 31, 2021. (Lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.)

Do you enjoy working outdoors? THE MEOTA REGIONAL PARK AUTHORITY has several Spring and Summer 2021 employment opportunities for you. Park Manager — Full-Time The Park Manager will oversee all matters related to the maintenance and operation of a 100-site campground. The responsibilities include supervision of the Assistant Manager and Park Maintenance staff. Candidates must have a valid driver's license and driving abstract, be knowledgeable of Saskatchewan Workers Compensation regulations, WHIMIS and other Provincial requirements. Wages are negotiable. Must be willing to work most weekends and some evenings. The term of employment begins May 1st and ends September 30th. Assistant Park Manager Full-Time The Assistant Park Manager reports to, and supports the Park Manager in overseeing all matters related to the maintenance and operation of a 100-site campground and park grounds. The responsibilities will include supervision of Park Maintenance Staff. The successful individual will be a self-starter, possess organization skills, have previous supervision and general maintenance experience, possess a valid Saskatchewan Driver's License and will be available to work weekends and some evenings. The term of employment begins May 1st and ends September 30th. Park Office Administrator and Office Staff The Meota Regional Park Authority is accepting applications for a Park Office Administrator and for Office Staff. Full and Part-time positions are available. The Park Office Administrator will work from mid-May 2021 to mid-September 2021. Preference will be given to individuals with office experience and must be knowledgeable of Microsoft Excel. Duties will include operation of the campsite on-line reservations system, answering telephones, checking in of campground patrons, relaying requests and concerns to maintenance staff, collection of fees and recording of daily revenues. The successful applicant will be available to work weekends and evenings and be willing to work with the Park Manager in other duties within the Regional Park. Park Office staff report to the Office Administrator and provide support in all office duties as well as assist the Park Manager within the Meota Regional Park when required. The term of employment for the Park Office staff will be mid-May 2021 to September long weekend. Park Maintenance Staff The Meota Regional Park Authority is accepting applications for several Park Maintenance Staff positions for the Spring and Summer of 2021. Reporting to the Park Manager, the Park Maintenance Staff will perform general grounds maintenance, lawn-mowing, painting, cleaning of facilities and garbage collection among other duties as assigned by either the Park Manager or their Assistant. Successful applicants will be self-motivated, reliable and able to work weekends as well as possess a valid Saskatchewan Driver's License and will be able to operate most lawn/garden care equipment. The term of employment will begin mid-May and end September long weekend. Students are welcome to apply. Please email resumes to meotapark@sasktel.net on or before 5:00pm Friday March 12, 2021. Please identify on your cover letter the employment position you are seeking.

• Door‐to‐door • Carrier service • Total coverage or personalized coverage

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306‐445‐7261

FOR THE BEST COVERAGE IN THE COMMUNITY T H E B AT T L E F O R D S

MEOTA REGIONAL PARK is accepting applications for Concession Lease

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NEWS-OPTIMIST Serving the Battlefords since 1908

test to. Vehicles stored outdoors are not a pretty sight. We are homeward bound in a couple of weeks, following the Canadian government rules closely. A 14-day quarantine is still in place. It is enforced through a hotline where one must report for 14 days straight, answering all nine questions honestly. A visit from an RCMP member to ensure one is following the stringent rules is also part of the process. I know, because ir etirned to the United States in October and had to follow the above procedure. On Day 10 an RCMP member from Warman detachment checked up on me. Hours at the Mayfair branch of Lakeland Library will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays as of April 7. Tuesday and Thursday hours will remain the same. Spiritwood’s Canphil Apiaries has honey for sale at the library. Part of the sale proceeds benefit the library. The library reminds patrons that movies, ebooks, CDs and videos not available at the local branch can be accessed through interlibrary loan. Many farmers are kept busy with calving this time of year, while hoping the weather will co-operate. A few weeks ago, some animals outside had ears and tails frozen in the -40 C temperatures. Who likes to get out of bed at 3 a.m. to check on a cow who is having trouble trying to give birth? Cattle producers, that’s who. Hats off to my many cattle producing friends who wouldn’t change the way of life for anything else. We sold many bison last month to a buyer in Alberta, so now have only a fe \w left. The prices at live weight were down a bit compared to January. Now there is less work for my husband and nephew Kyle. The grandkids like to view the bison when here to visit. The animals make a majestic addition to the landscape on the rolling, grassy hills with a slough nearby.

THURSDAY’S BEST

ONLINE

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The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 25

2020 HAS BEEN A CHALLENGING YEAR FOR RESIDENTS AND STAFF AT THE VILLA PASCAL Due to Covid restrictions, we have all learned to adapt to many daily changes and challenges, such as, strictly limited visitors, outings and no entertainment. Unable to hold regular fund raisers the recreation department was challenged to provide regular programing. But by the Grace of God, gifts from our amazing families and supportive community members gave us the opportunity to continue life at the Villa as near to normal as possible. The dedicated ladies of our auxiliary, through their continuous hard work, provided the Villa Pascal with much needed equipment and supplies making life more comfortable for our residents. Throughout the year we received overwhelming support from the community and especially through the Christmas season. A generous donation from Walter Dutchak of WPD Ambulance allowed each resident to receive a terrific gift from Santa. Residents also received numerous cards, letters, drawings, posters, treats and gifts from students, churches, groups, and individuals, of the community bringing much joy throughout the season. From all of us at the Villa Pascal, A BIG THANK YOU to each and every person who so generously thought of us this past year. All your support has made us feel loved and embraced through these trying times. And this has been the BIGGEST gift we could ever receive.

Some of the pictures were taken precovid restrictions.

individuals, businesses, We would like to acknowledge the following ed anyone, please community groups and schools. If we have miss contributions. forgive us and know we are thankful for your Villa Pascal Ladies Auxiliary Memorial donations Walter Dutchak – WPD Ambulance Lions Club Knights of Columbus Battlefords Legion Patty & Andy Theill Paul Lessard Frank Pool Leon & Marlene Lavoie Lorna Lavallee Helen Blais Home Hardware Battlefords Animal Hospital River City Plumbing & Heating Bonaventure Ladies Sunshine Acres Leray”s Gardens Corey & Jody Chmelnyk Father Choung Pastor Deb McNabb Carey Schmidt Cathy Wright Notre Dame Church Foursquare Church Awana Bible Club – Territorial Alliance Church Parents et Petits Community Santa Cashco Financial St Mary’s School Notre Dame School Ecole Pere Monseingneur Ecole Monseigheur Blaise Morand Holy Family School John Paul 11 Collegiate N.B. Comprehensive High School Lawrence Elementary United Way Board of Education

God Bless Residents & Staff Villa Pascal

Page 26 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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Be a humble sinner rather than a self-righteous saint The words sinner and saint are loaded. They mean different things to different people. They are like the word church, which can also mean various things. The word church might be thought of as a specific building where people go to worship God. It might mean a particular denomination like Lutheran or Roman Catholic. Church might mean a specific or local congregation. To some, church means something to avoid or reject. I understand saint to mean a singular believer in Christ and the communion of saints, to be the plural number of those who believe in Christ. To many, the word saint means

I told Ed that Jesus warned of self-righteous saints through one of his stories. It’s found in Luke 18:10-14: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the According to Ed other a tax collector. The By Raymond Maher Pharisee stood up and www.accordingtoed.com prayed about Himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am revraymaher@accesscomm.ca not like other men – robbers, evildoers, adulterers – holiness or righteousness. 1:7) or even like this tax collecChristians understand Ed, my old neighbour tor. I fast twice a week and their holiness comes from in Saskatchewan, has a give a tenth of all I get.’ Christ. Believers in Christ different understanding of But the tax collector stood recognize they are sinners the word saint. To him, a at a distance. He would not who have been cleansed by saint is an annoying selfeven look up to heaven but the shed blood of Christ righteous person convinced beat his breast and said, and with His innocent of their moral superiority ‘God, have mercy on me, suffering and death. In and who shows a meana sinner.’ I tell you that Christ, we have redemphearted rejection of others this man, rather than the tion, the forgiveness of sins who are obvious sinners in other, went home justified by God’s grace. (Ephesians their eyes. before God. For everyone

eighbourly Advice

who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” In the season of Lent, we seek to recognize that we can get carried away with our righteousness and look down on others. The world at any given time is never short on folks who see themselves as better than others. When we compare ourselves to others, we will readily see how we might be more or less or about equal to others. Comparisons such as who is taller, older, a harder worker, more stubborn or more sinful never end. Christians are to compare themselves to the sinless life of Jesus, His sacrificial death for all

sinners, including those crucifying Him. Christians are to remember, “There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Our righteousness is not about being right or doing right but about trust in the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ, God’s Son. We trust that we are justified freely through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement through faith in His blood.” (Romans 3:19-25) “By grace, we are saved, through faith – and this not from ourselves. It is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Worship Together Spend some quality family time together. Worship at the church of your choice. Our community has a number of churches and a variety of denominations for you & your family. (RC) St. Joseph Calasanctius Parish 1942 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK S9A 0N4

TerriTorial Drive alliance church

306-445-5158 www.tdac.ca

306-446-1695

PASTOR: Rev. Phinh Do

DAILY: Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. - 9 a.m. unless otherwise noted

Corner of Scott & Territorial Dirve Sat. 7:00 pm - Sun. 9:30 am & 11:00 am Ministries for the whole family

WEEKEND MASS TIMES: Saturdays - 7:30 p.m. Sundays - 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

ANGLICAN PARISH

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

Rev. Trevor Malyon

1401 - 98th Street, North Battleford, SK

St. Georges Anglican Church Battleford Sunday @ 5:00 p.m. St. Paul’s Anglican Church North Battleford Sunday @ 11:00 a.m. Battle River Parish YouTube channel CJNB Radio 1050 a.m. Sunday mornings 7:45-8:30 a.m. Contact: 306 445 4155 stpaulnb@sasktel.net

306-445-5901

Reverend George Yando Sunday Services 10:30 AM Everyone Welcome

PRE-REGISTER

Living Water Ministry

Hope Mennonite Fellowship 1291 - 109th Street, North Battleford

Sr. Pastor Brian Arcand Pastor Anand George Phone: 306-445-3803 Cell: 306-441-9385 Fax: 306-445-4385

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Pastor: Dean Covert

Church Phone 306-445-4181

All Saints Ukrainian Catholic Parish 902 - 108th Street, North Battleford

Divine Liturgy: Sundays at 4:00 p.m. Celebrant: Very Rev. Janko Kolosnjaji 306-664-2301 (Office) 306-244-2604 (Home) To Register Call Jasmina at 306-445-1002

Battleford United Church 52 - 4th Avenue West Battleford, SK

306-937-3177 Rev. Gayle Wensley

SUNDAY SERVICES 11:00 a.m.

Third Avenue United Church Rev. Dexter van Dyke

Sunday Worship Services at 10:30 am Pre-registration required to register at

306-445-8171

www.thirdavenueunitedchurchnb.ca Email: thirdaveunited@sasktel.net

Everyone Welcome

Sunday Evening Service 7:00 p.m. Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 p.m.

1371 - 103rd Street (Use East Door)

Battlefords Cowboy Church Services 1st & 3rd Thursday of each Month

Battleford Legion Hall 7:00 p.m. PASTOR - Rick Martin

LIVING FAITH CHAPEL

1372 102nd St 306-445-3009

11 - 18th Street, Battleford, SK

Phone 306-937-7340 PASTOR - Fr. Sebastian Kunnath

Maidstone/Paynton United Church of Canada Phone: 306-285-3823 Contact: Don Retzlaff

No Services till further notice

Church & CE Wing: 306-893-2611 For booking the Wing: 306-893-4729

Various Weekly Programs Pastor Casey Sitter www.livingfaithchapel.ca

Battlefords Seventh-Day Adventist Church

ROMAN CATHOLIC ST. VITAL’S Saturday Evening Mass - 5:00 p.m. Sunday Mass - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Services 10:30 am

1702 - 106th Street, North Battleford

Come Join Us Sundays at 11:00 am Loving God Growing Together Serving Others Phone Church: 306-445-4818 Fax: 306-445-8895 Email: tbcnb@sasktel.net www.trinitybaptistchurch.ca

Pastor James Kwon

Corner 16th Ave. & 93rd Street, North Battleford

Phone 306-445-9096

Saturday Services Bible Study - 10:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Regional News-Optimist

The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021 - Page 27

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

Professional Directory CONSTRUCTION

ACUPUNCTURE

Sakihew Acupuncture

• Mental Wellness • Sleep Issues • Weight Loss • Pain Management

Co-Jack Construction

Established in 1996 Complete Building Renovations Brad Pearson

Jeanine Starchief

TCMD, L.Ac, R.Ac

Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture

Suite 102, 1102 - 102 Street, North Battleford.

306-317-6744 Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm

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

ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR

AGRICULTURE PARTS

Bob Frolek's

DEADLINE FOR THURSDAY EDITION IS MONDAY BY 4:00 PM

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Derrick Shynkaruk General Contractor

• New Construction • Renovations

306.441.1980 306.445.3144

djshynkaruk@gmail.com GENERAL CONTRACTOR

Ag Services • Solar • Residential Commercial • Maintenance

AGRA PARTS PLUS WRECKING

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

Box 5 Medstead, SK S0M 1W0

Owner co-jack@sasktel.net

Look for the RIGHT business for the JOB

Jeff Schommer

306-481-4892 306-445-6769

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

Kevin Ryhorchuk

schommshandymanrenos@yahoo.com

306-441-8727

Have a "To-Do" List? We Will Take Care of it!

Class of 2020 donates excess funds back to community By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

At the risk of jinxing the rest of winter, we won’t complain too much. Other than the big snow storm in early November and a few blustery days along with the cold snap in February, either winter hasn’t been that bad or we are more adept at adapting, because we are more inclined to be outdoors to relive pandemic fatigue. I am loving Mr. Sun’s decision to enlighten us just a little longer each day. As a Kin lifer who grew up with parents working Telemiracle and then doing so myself once I was old enough, I revelled in watching Telemiracle 45. Remember to send your donations in a timely manner so the Kinsmen Foundation can put that money to good use for the people of Saskatchewan in need of a hand. At Unity Composite High School, Grade 12 students are busy with grad plans. You can support the grads with their perogy fundraiser or drop and go Sarcan donations. The Class of 2020 donated just over $3,200 back to the community as their way of showing the community they appreciated the support. The class voted on their choices for recipients and the money was distributed to the Unity Community Resource Centre, the Unity Food Bank, the hospital auxiliary, STARS and KidSport. Our local co-op and credit union never likely thought they would be hosting annual meetings

nity News

in a virtual format for a second year in a row. However, there are many who have commented they enjoy this format and whether it will remain in the works for years to come remains to be seen. Unity Credit Union AGM will be held March 23 while Delta Co-op will hold their AGM March 24. Unity businesses continue to invest in the future in the community by undertaking renovations, expansions and upgrades. JDs RV and Powersport, Gilbert Agencies and Jaron Bearing all took advantage of some extra time in 2020 to undergo these changes. Drop in and check out what they’ve done. What’s new on the batty story that came out of the arena renovations? Well, bat removal is still ongoing. Toni Bryan of Hometown Designs is undertaking a fundraiser to support the Canadian Mental Health Association. Sales of shirts and hoodies with the logo “Cont;nue” on them will benefit the CMHA. (Look up the Semicolon Project for the significance of the mark in mental health awareness.) Rob and Shauna of C95 radio showed off their shirts in an Instagram post. You can contact Bryan through her business Facebook page. Remember the mobile

air quality station set up at the pool this summer? The testing unit was set up in Unity on June 16 and collected samples until Aug. 12. According to the Ministry of Environment, the site was chosen because of the number of industrial operations in the area, to supplement previously performed air quality monitoring and to help in air zone evaluation. “During the time the MAQS was in Unity, average readings for all pollutants were low and considered typical for an urban setting with low risk to human health and environment,” the ministry states. Here’s hoping this finds you all safe, healthy and socially distanced. Until next week ...

Unity Composite High School Class of 2020 recently donated excess funds raised for their graduation back to the community. A total of $3,202.85 was divided among the hospital auxiliary, Unity Food Bank, Unity Community Resource Centre, STARS Air Ambulance and KidSport. Photo submitted

St. Peter’s School Grade 6 students show off the 20 new ukuleles purchased for the school using a $2,250 Jimmy and Ethel Anderson Award grant from the Unity Music Festival Committee. The grant gave a boost to the school’s music program, as singing and use of wind instruments are not allowed under Ministry of Education guidelines for COVID Safety. Photo submitted

Page 28 - The Battlefords, Thursday, March 4, 2021

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