Regional News-Optimist March 9, 2023

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE

Iffley Hatherleigh Road residents protest unwanted power poles

Health and property values at issue

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Louise Reiter, Darwin Kobelsky and their neighbours living along the Iffley Hatherleigh Road north of the Battlefords are taking a stand against SaskPower’s plans to install power poles on their property.

But they fear their resistance will have no effect, as the Saskatchewan crown corporation, responsible for power in the province, can use Canada’s expropriation laws to overrule their protests.

At a meeting in Meota last fall, residents possibly affected by one of three proposed routes were told the new doubled-posted power poles were being installed to improve their flickering power, said the Iffley Hatherleigh Road neighbours.

“I don’t believe that for a minute … that’s been happening for the 29 years we’ve been there, and they’ve never done anything,” Louise Reiter told the News-Optimist/SASKTODAY.ca.

Reiter and her neighbours believe the new

power pole installation is about serving the nearby heavy oil plant, not local residents.

“It’s for the oil plant … the main one, to the south. When this plant got built, SaskPower said that they could produce enough electricity to not cause any issues and not to worry about it,” Darwin Kobelsky said.

The nearby Meota East Facility is among a number of thermal plants acquired from Serafina Energy by Strathcona Resources Ltd. in September 2022, with the Saskatchewan government highlighting the possibility of expansions at their facilities.

SaskPower’s website says they’re working with the oil and gas company and that the new 138-kilovolt power line to connect a new substation to an existing power line in the area will run for six kilometres. Their website also says the new power line will add more distribution services to support Strathcona Resources’ oilfield operations in the Meota and Prince areas.

Kobelsky told the News-Optimist that the

area experiences frequent power surges, which is reportedly costing the oil company money.

Of the three proposed routes, two go through wetlands. The last route. a direct line, is along the grid road for easy access, and is the most economical for SaskPower, but passes within 250 metres of five homes.

“They had three proposed routes, and they just came back to us in January here to say that they picked the final route, which is along here,” Kobelsky said, gesturing along the map highlighting an east-bound corridor along the Iffley Hatherleigh Road.

“Basically, they told me because it’s wetlands, it gets thrown out right away. They knew that when they made the map … they basically gave us one choice, they had that choice in mind and that’s what they wanted.”

At a meeting in early February, SaskPower tried to convince them there was no other option.

“Basically, they told us that, ‘it doesn’t matter,’ they expropriate the land

Continued on Page 6

SASKTODAY.ca

The one-year countdown is on for the Brier at Brandt Centre in Regina March 1-10 next year. Ticket packages were to go on sale March 9 at 10 a.m. .

Organizers are urging fans to act quickly as demand is expected to be high. Single-draw tickets are not being offered until October or November, after television and draw schedules have been finalized.

The available ticket packages can be purchased online at curling.ca/tickets or at the Brandt Centre box office, and inquiries can be sent to tickets@ curling.ca.

RCMP are investigating 32-year-old Gregory Cope’s death as a homicide. His remains were found Feb. 27 in the debris of a house fire in Battleford. Now, local residents are raising money for his sons. See Page 2.

“Where the difference is worth the drive”

Murder victim’s post

‘Remember me with smiles and laughter’

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

The social media memorial page for Gregory Cope asks people to remember him in his good times saying he had recently posted a saying that he had found in his mom Bonnie’s Bible that read, “Remember me with smiles and laughter, for that is how I will remember you.”

A vigil for Gregory Cope is being planned at a later date.

His family have asked for privacy while they deal with the tragedy of losing a brother, father, cousin, uncle, nephew, stepson, and close friend.

Wolf Garden Open Marketin Battleford held a

RCMP found Gregory Cope’s remains Feb. 27 in the debris of a house fire on 27th Street West in Battleford. RCMP say they are investigating his death as a homicide. | Photo by Averil Hall

fundraiser to help Cope’s sons.

For three days, Wolf Garden Open Market sold hamburgers and sandwiches for $6 with all proceeds going towards the GoFundMe for Cope’s boys, according to a post on a so-

cial media page dedicated to remembering Cope. So far, $1,470 has been raised towards the $5,000 goal.

Wolf Garden Open Market has also been accepting bottle donations for the Gofundme page.

Thirty-two-year-old

Cope was reported as missing to Battlefords

RCMP on Feb. 21. RCMP found Cope’s remains Feb. 27 in the debris of a house fire on 27th Street West in Battleford. RCMP say they are investigating his death as a homicide.

Woman who helped Westside Outlawz sell drugs from prison sentenced

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A high-ranking Westside Outlawz street gang member from Onion Lake Cree Nation was able to run his major drug trafficking operation while behind bars in Prince Albert

Regular: $30 + tax

Student: $26 + tax

with the help of Shania Yooya on the outside, court heard.

A sentencing hearing was held in a Saskatchewan court last week for Yooya, now 27, on a charge of trafficking drugs for a criminal organization.

Judge Sanjeev Anand ac-

cepted a joint submission to the court by defence counsel Carl Swenson and Crown Prosecutor Carla Dewar.

“He was able to run his drug business while he was in custody,” said Dewar.

Court heard that he would not have been able

Poltava Ukrainian Dance

Sunday, March 26, 2023 2:00 pm

to run his drug business from behind bars without Yooya’s help. He told Yooya where to go, what to do, the quality of the drugs, had her collect debts, and threaten people.

The high-ranking Westside Outlawz gang member was in daily contact with Yooya and was able to call her more than 800 times by using other inmate’s phone time. His position within the street gang allowed him to do that, court heard.

Dewar said that Yooya has been on strict bail conditions the past three years and she doesn’t have any breaches, has stayed away from other gang members, and is getting addictions treatment and counselling.

Swenson told the court that Yooya had become involved with Westside Outlawz after she had succumbed to drug addiction. She lost custody of her child and wants to rebuild her life.

In accepting the Crown and defence’s joint sentencing submission for a one

year conditional jail sentence, Judge Anand said he took into consideration her significant Gladue factors, her lack of a prior criminal record, and her post offence conduct of abiding by her release conditions.

“The sentence proposed is not contrary to the public interest,” said Judge Anand.

Appearing in court in person, Yooya sat with a face mask covering most of her face.

Yooya was ordered to provide her DNA to a Saskatchewan police station, not possess any weapons, not consume drugs or alcohol, participate in counselling as ordered by her probation officer, and not to have any contact with any known Westside Outlawz street gang members.

Yooya was arrested in in April 2020 following a lengthy investigation by the RCMP gang unit into organized crime in Prince Albert and several communities in the area. The RCMP Prince Albert Crime Re-

Join us for a celebration of Ukrainian culture, history and heritage!

The Association of United Ukrainian Canadians, Poltava Ensemble of Song, Music and Dance is a 50-member Ukrainian Ensemble based in Regina, Saskatchewan. The Poltava Ensemble’s roots in Saskatchewan’s cultural scene began in 1922 with the formation of a children’s string orchestra and since that time the Ensemble has grown to include dancers, singers and musicians.

The Poltava Dancers, directed by Lisa Wanner, is a male and female adult ensemble whose dancers have a high level of technical training in Ukrainian dance, ballet and folk dance. The Poltava Orchestra, under the direction of Vlad Tsymbal, brings to life the rich heritage of Ukrainian folk music, whether it accompanies the dancers or is featured as a performing entity unto itself.

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duction Team was assisted by officers from the Prince Albert RCMP Detachment, Prince Albert Police Service and Saskatoon Police Service.

Yooya was originally charged with uttering threats in association with, for the benefit of or at the direction of a criminal organization, trafficking a controlled substance in association with, for the benefit of or at the direction of a criminal organization, conspiracy to commit assault in association with, for the benefit of or at the direction of a criminal organization, unsafe storage of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition without a license, possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number, trafficking methamphetamine, obstruction of justice, and fabricating evidence.

Macklin man accused of assaulting RCMP officers back in court

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

A 50-year-old Macklin man accused of threatening Alberta RCMP staff is scheduled to appear in Unity circuit court March 20 to enter a plea.

Jason Tucker was arrested him in February after he allegedly called Provost RCMP and threatened the staff. Unity RCMP were dispatched to Tucker’s home and when they arrived Tucker greeted them wielding a baseball bat.

RCMP say that he threatened to use it against an RCMP officer who was trying to arrest him. Tucker went back into his house so police obtained a search warrant to enter his home.

Tucker is charged with assaulting the arresting police officers, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and uttering threats to RCMP staff in Provost.

He was released from custody following an appearance in North Battleford Provincial Court on Feb. 8.

Wolf Garden Open Market held a fundraiser to help homicide victim Gregory Cope’s sons. | Facebook

Emerging First Nation talent to be celebrated March 25

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Anita Moosomin, a nurse from Mosquito First Nation, has a mission to uplift generations from all walks of life. And by hosting an event to showcase budding First Nation talent, she’s doing just that.

Following the death of her 26-year-old nephew, an emerging hip-hop artist known as Young Broady, Moosomin decided to host the inaugural non-profit First Nation Uplifting Gala on March 15 to showcase upcoming Indigenous talent.

“His passion for music started off in his early years learning songs from the elders. His music today still lives on through his family and friends

… they all followed his tune,” reads an email from Moosomin.

The first-of-its-kind event will have artists across different genres, including powwow dancers, a drum group, rappers, singers, a comedian and a motivational speaker.

Moosomin has always been passionate about her culture, and she says First Nation talent isn’t displayed as often as it could be.

“We don’t see talented people when they’re starting out,” Moosomin said, adding, “a lot of our talent is definitely budding.”

Funds raised by the event will also be used to help anyone in Mosquito First Nation and send a young man with cancer to Las Vegas before he starts

Regulated spaces subsidized

Child care fees reduced to $10 a day starting April 1

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

Relief is coming at the start of next month for families who spend money on child care fees.

since the agreement took effect two years ago, and Saskatchewan is the third jurisdiction to reach $10 a day, after Nunavut and Manitoba.

28,000 additional spaces by ‘25-‘26,” Gould said.

his next treatment

“He’s my biggest priority,” Moosomin said.

But she says everyone has a story to tell.

“It’s time that we need to be heard, it’s time that we need to be seen,” Moosomin said, adding that spring is the perfect time for the gala.

“In spring, we rejoice, we reconnect. That’s what I’ve always been passionate about,” which Moosomin says is due, in part to the elders, who encouraged her, telling her to, “keep going.”

“I want to uplift our nations to keep going,”

Tickets are $50 prepurchased. For more information or to purchase a ticket, contact Anita Moosomin at 306-441-9402 or avmoosomin@gmail. com.

The governments of Saskatchewan and Canada have made a joint announcement that parent fees for regulated child care in the province will go down to $10 a day as of April 1.

The announcement was made Monday morning in Regina by federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Karina Gould and by provincial Education Minister Dustin Duncan. The announcement took place at the YMCA Albert Street Child Care Centre in Regina.

What it means for parents of children under age six who attend regulated child care on a full-time basis is that they can expect to pay $217.50 per month, resulting in what the province said is savings on average of between $395 to $573 per month for each child under six compared to before.

“The impact that this is having on their household budgets is tremendous,” Gould said to reporters.

“I was talking with a mom earlier today who is going going back to work after maternity leave. And she was saying that this has made it possible for her to go back to work because if fees had been where they were over a year ago, she just wouldn’t have been able to afford to have a child in daycare and to go back to work.”

The $10 a day mark was achieved by the province three years ahead of the schedule. The two governments had committed to achieving that mark by 2025-26 in the CanadaSaskatchewan CanadaWide Early Learning and Child Care. This is the third such fee reduction

“It’s very exciting that we can stand here today and say that we will have achieved this goal three years ahead of schedule,” said Duncan.

“Affordable, inclusive and high quality childcare not only provides our children with a positive start in life, but also gives parents the flexibility and choice to build both a family and a career.

“We want our children safe, healthy and develop to their full potential with strong families and supportive communities. And we want to ensure that there is affordability relief in place so that we can continue to grow a strong province as the best place to live to work and to raise a family. That is growth that works for everyone.”

The agreement between the federal and provincial governments also includes commitments to increase the number of child care spaces — an important issue in communities such as Regina which have reported wait lists of a year for parents seeking child care spaces.

The agreement signed in 2021 includes a federal investment of nearly $1.1 billion over five years for regulated early learning and child care programs and services for children under the age of six in Saskatchewan. The province has been increasing training spaces and education to increase numbers of early childhood educators, as well as establishing a wage grid and increasing wages.

Minister Gould said it was always part of the vision to make sure child care was not only affordable but also accessible and available.

“Saskatchewan has an ambitious goal of creating

“They have already announced an additional 4,000 spaces that have been created since we signed our agreement just a year and a half ago — really, quite a short period of time. But why is this important? Because we know that with lower fees, working families are going to want to be able to access childcare, and we know that they are long wait lists. And to fully enable the benefit of this initiative, we need to ensure that families can access childcare.”

Duncan said early on he was “disabused quickly” of any notion that there would be any issue filling the 28,000 spaces. “It’s going to be more a lack of workers. That’s why we’re working very hard to increase those training spaces, increase obviously temporarily the wages but also develop some long term plans in terms of wages, looking at benefits, that sort of thing, so that we can attract a qualified workforce going forward.”

One of those parents who says she will benefit is Julie Wermie, a mother of four kids with two still attending daycare. She said daycare had been financially difficult for her family, with fees costing upwards of $800-$900 per child.

“Now that they are down to $10 a day, it is absolutely amazing,” Wemie said. “It helps so much for us continuing to put away education money for our kids later on.” She also said it would help with the cost of living going up.

“Originally we were paying $2,000 a month in fees. And now, with $10, we will be able to go on family vacations, go doing all the sporting activities and just having a place that is providing support for us.”

Finlayson Island is great for a winter stroll. If you hold out your hand with some bird seeds in your palm, don’t be surprised if a chickadee perches on your hand to have a quick nibble. Design all around! | Photo and text by Jim McLane

A provincial remedy to the excesses of medical assisted suicide

By Gordon Friesen

Decriminalizing “Medical Assistance in Dying” ( MAiD) in 2016 apparently confirmed a powerful social bias in favour of personal freedom. Presented as a free choice – affecting no one else – euthanasia seemed acceptable to most Canadians.

However, this tells only part of the story, for euthanasia is not only about death by choice; it is also defined as high-priority medical care. Unfortunately, like a new organism released in an established ecosystem, the arrival of euthanasia could not fail to affect every detail of the medical environment.

First of all, it is an ethical requirement for doctors to inform patients of all available treatment options. This means informing each patient of their “right” to access euthanasia (MAiDs). The typical non-suicidal patient is thus immediately confronted with the possibility of assisted death, in the same way that one is confronted by an open elevator shaft or a missing guardrail. Suddenly a danger exists which must be consciously avoided.

Nor does the threat end there. Doctors are expected to proactively prescribe optimal treatment (to which the patient normally consents), but some doctors are very partial to euthanasia. It is thus to be expected that many patients will succumb to the suggestion of these “professionals,” even though they would never have spontaneously thought, themselves, to request assisted death.

Indeed, it is not easy to fix a clear boundary between the legitimate professional duty to convince recalcitrant patients of what is truly best for them, and the abusive application of “undue influence” in proposing death as treatment. Certainly, this is a slippery slope!

Roger Foley, for example, eloquently describes being offered euthanasia on multiple occasions during a prolonged hospital stay caused by his inability to obtain adequate care at home. Eventually, hospital staff informed Foley that he would either have to pay an exorbitant daily fee or be discharged without the care he needed to survive. Accounts of this situation were naturally greeted with outrage by the press. But there also remains a sort of perverse logic in defence of the hospital based on the medical definition of MAiD. By refusing euthanasia, Foley had effectively refused the proposition of a perfectly legitimate medical treatment, which would normally lessen the hospital’s responsibility towards him considerably.

Similarly, in the now-famous scandal of Canadian veterans being offered MAiD for PTSD, we must remember that Bill C-7 authorizes euthanasia for mental illness without any physical issues. Therefore, while many Canadians might agree that the offending case-

worker behaved misguidedly, no one in authority has affirmed that veterans will not be euthanized for PTSD. Quite the contrary: in today’s legal and medical setting, it is a virtual certainty that they will be offered MAiD.

To suggest that human life should be ended according to medical criteria is an entirely different proposition from saying that people might be allowed to seek assistance in death of their own free will. As euthanasia is increasingly institutionalized, and as a younger generation of professionals becomes fully adjusted to its “medical” use, we must expect that typical patients will face an increasingly hostile clinical environment if they do not accept the recommended treatment. We are witnessing the transition of our entire health-care system to a new utilitarian model that is totally at odds with traditional assumptions of life-affirming care.

This is not what Canadians thought they were getting. And more importantly, there has been no serious debate about making such a radical change.

Happily, one glimmer of hope is to be found in the fact that health is a provincial responsibility; that just as Quebec was able to define euthanasia as medical care, so other provinces can revisit their decision. And without being able to prohibit euthanasia entirely (an exclusively federal power), each province and territory can permit or forbid euthanasia in any institution under its authority. They are free to decide whether their funds will support

euthanasia, and free to regulate the behaviour of health professionals.

These are very serious concerns. Health care consumes nearly a full third of all government spending. Do Canadians wish to pay for a system that will care for us when needed? Or do we want to pay for a system designed to bury us at the lowest possible cost?

Gordon Friesen has been following the assisted death question closely since the early nineteen-nineties and is currently President of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition.

© Troy Media

Letters welcome

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.

Gordon Brewerton Senior Group Publisher Administration

Kylie Cooke DTI/Receptionist

Editorial

Jayne Foster Editor SASKTODAY.ca

Lisa Joy Reporter • Miguel Fenrich Reporter

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Claude Paradis Prepress Manager

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.

Meat the Moment

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

WoodPile The

A Miss Eleanor Fargeon inspired by the village of Alfriston in East Sussex England wrote a short paean to the coming of spring, entitled “Morning has Broken”. It speaks of happy blackbirds and bedewed grass and was adopted as a church hymn in 1931. A traditional Gaelic tune, which to mind is a pathetic wail, was appropriated for it. The tune is called “Bunessan” after a tiny village on the island of Mull where it invariably rains as my brother can attest. Cat Stevens made the song and tune famous – it can be played fairly

Letter

approximately using only five black notes of a keyboard as is also the case for Amazing Grace and Auld Lang Syne. Since these tunes have either a Scottish connection or source this represents an enormous but most satisfactory Scottish economy. Two catch phrases are current, one for each major political party. Mr. Trudeau has adopted “Meet the Moment” which suggests that we are facing trying situations, none of course, of his doing. The phrase greatly irritates me as I hear it as “Meat the Moment” which reminds one of the inflated cost of

steaks as we look forward to the barbecue season.

Peter Poilievre’s phrase “Canada is broken” drives me mental as hearing it invariably sets off the “Bunessan” tune in my head which greatly disturbs my concentration and ability to write these articles. It is an over-dramatization, but one can easily list many problems which have not been resolved by Liberal ideology and perhaps made worse as a result of it. I am sure we can all make a list – the SNC Lavalin scandal; the E.M.A. response to civil unrest; crime rate increases; reckless excessive COVID spending; the doubling of the national debt; huge

annual deficits; inflation; interest rate increases; confused oil, gas and pipeline policies etc. The country is not “broken” - it is discombobulated.

Learning that Harry and Meghan have been invited to the Coronation ceremony, the quotation “I’ll tak the high road, you’ll tak the low road” came into my mind. It is from the famous Scottish song “Long Lomond” which describes two individuals returning to this beauty spot centrally located and easily accessed compared to Bunessan in Mull. I think most would agree that the Royal family is taking the high road at this time by leaving resolution of family problems in H and

M’s hands. Interestingly they have retained their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles. Had they remained in England they might well have been living in idyllic Alfriston which so captivated Miss Fargeon.

Yogi Berra famously said, “when you come to a fork in the road, take it”. By appointing a rapporteur to further probe alleged foreign election interference, Mr. Trudeau has shown himself weak and indecisive and has taken neither the high road nor the low road. In fact, he is hung up as pressure mounts for a public inquiry which he has adamantly refused. If unable to climb down, he should step down.

Slavery, genocide: No country has clean hands

Dear Editor

Just before Christmas we learned the government of The Netherlands had apologized for their part in the slave trade of black people.

There’s a lot of that going on; someone apologizing for something done by someone else. There are, however, groups which will get away without ever saying they are sorry for what was done by others, or themselves.

It isn’t like the Dutch slave traders, or traders from any other nation, went blithely into what would to them be trackless, darkest Africa, to look for people to tamely agree to being slaves. There were deadly snakes of several varieties, diseases, predators which couldn’t care if their prey had four legs or went on two legs and spoke, often, using speech to declare they were Christians.

There were swamps and there were fine huge trees from behind which could come arrows or blow darts propelled by men who resented being invaded, even in a small way.

No, I think traders would have stayed on the comparatively healthy coastline where they could have bartered with black chiefs. The tribes represented by those chiefs probably had a continuing feud with another tribe and would be happy to be paid something to attack an enemy village and capture men, women and children and drag them to the coastline to be shipped away into slavery. Perhaps the trade almost wiped out tribal populations, to see them only in another country.

Slavery had been going on for centuries and all slaves were not black. Some countries liked to buy from the Viking traders because they could get red-headed slaves from Ireland or fair-haired An-

glo Saxons.

The evil treatment of one group to another in one way or another is world-wide and few nations have entirely clean hands. In Canada it is well documented what Europeans did to the Beothuks of Newfoundland; genocide.

Less known is the almost-genocide of the Seneca people in what is now the United States and that was organized by George Washington. You can look it up.

I discovered only recently that Indigenous people sold Indigenous people to be slaves in cen-

tral Canada, where there were certainly already black slaves.

Do you know why there are no longer Snake people in the Rocky Mountains? They fell to genocide in the 1700s. You can research that, too.

Who chased the Gros Ventre people out of Western Canada? Some years ago, I was phoned by a professor in the United States who was involved in a museum. His degree might have been in anthropology. He wanted to ask if I could give him sources so he could research the history of his people, the

Gros Ventre, when the tribe roamed freely in this area. There wasn’t much, but I gave what I could. At the time I then asked if his people could tell me anything about the petroglyphs near Herschel. No, he replied, they would have been the work of The Old People. By that, the people who were the residents before the Gros Ventre. I wish I’d asked him if The Old People

faded away or did the Gros Ventra chase them away.

Recently I heard a radio announcer tell the world, “Classical music is the music of colonization.”

“What?” I snapped out. If that person knew history she would know “classical music” wasn’t around thousands of years ago when there was colonization, slavery, genocide, invasion, subjugation, mass murders of people and on and on.

Colonization was around long before Beethoven, Bach or Bizet were born.

Or are we to seek out the descendants of any of these men, of any descendants of classical composers of two hundred years ago or 20 years ago and tell them to apologize?

On the other hand, we could use a slogan: “Blame Beethoven.”

Christine Pike Waseca

Residents protest unwanted power poles

A map distributed at a Nov. 3 meeting in Meota shows three proposed powerline routes, the bottom two going through wetlands. The top one, which is also along the Iffley Hatherleigh Road and is the most economical for the crown corporation, appears to have been chosen by SaskPower despite complaints that it comes too close to five houses and may significantly lower property values.

Continued from Page 1 eventually. So, basically, suck it up,” Kobelsky said.

“I thought this was a democratic country, that once you bought land, you owned it. Now if they can move in whenever they feel like it and take over, this is no longer a democracy. We may as well be communist China,” Reiter said.

Kobelsky feels they’re doing what’s cheapest and easier, not what’s best for people.

“At what cost, though?

To us?” Reiter asked. “Human beings are more important than cattle or crops.”

Kobelsky and Reiter are both concerned about the possible adverse health effects possible from living so close to high-voltage power lines, noting that cutting the grass, having grandchildren playing in their yard, or even walking beneath the power lines puts them within the 46 metres SaskPower has told them they’d have to avoid.

“They say it’s safe with 46 metres for a buffer zone, but if you do any research on the internet, lots of this 46 meters stuff is from when they didn’t have a lot of studies … anything that I’ve read is 200 metres minimum. They do know it has caused leukemia in kids, cancer in adults, they just don’t know to what extent,” Kobelsky said.

They’re also worried about the devaluation of their property, with Reiter referencing two properties in West Park, Battleford, that she believes haven’t sold due to the presence of power poles on the property.

“We’re not going to be

able to stay out here forever. At some point, we’ll probably have to move to a seniors’ home, and this was to be our retirement funds,” she said.

“These power lines that they’re talking about are double-posted. Apparently, the posts are 12 feet apart. That’s taking up a chunk of our land, and we own this land.”

“I’ve spoken to realtors, and power lines may affect anywhere from 10 to 30 per cent of the property value … that’s just the value, it also decreases the number of people that will want to buy the property,” Kobelsky said.

Reiter also noted that the government often calls on people to be mindful of their power consumption, so Reiter and her husband opted to plant a windbreak to avoid having to turn on the furnace as often and to limit their

electricity usage.

Now, Reiter says, their windbreak and saskatoon berry bushes will be cut down or moved, with no guarantee that they could survive a transplant. The fence they paid for themselves and built will also be moved.

To counteract this, SaskPower has offered them $5,000 per installation. Not wanting to take it and accept the proposal, they’re also worried that they’ll end up with nothing as SaskPower threatens to take their land.

“If they do force us into that, what are the chances of getting any kind of money?” Kobelsky said.

“We keep insisting, but now, they’ve said that it doesn’t matter because they have the right of eminent domain,” Reiter said, referring to Canada’s expropriation law.

“We don’t get a say.”

Residents living along the Iffley Hatherleigh Road north of the Battlefords say SaskPower wants five property owners to cede a portion of their land regardless of their complaints.

Some in the area feel SaskPower is building new power lines to benefit the Meota East Facility, recently purchased by Strathcona Resources Ltd., which touted the possibility of future expansion. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Todd Rennebohm’s road to recovery From anxiety to advocacy

In the 5th Grade, Todd Rennebohm’s anxiety was so bad he was diagnosed with a stomach ulcer.

As a child, he experienced sexual trauma. Then, at 13, he began to drink heavily. By 16, he was experiencing depression. In the last few months of high school, he struggled to get out of bed and barely managed to function.

His struggles with mental health continued after he graduated high school, left his hometown of Indian Head, and moved to Regina, where he was abused and harassed by a much older female manager at his work.

“That’s when my depression really kicked in, especially when I drank. I was binge drinking two or three times a week.”

Rennebohm describes himself as a sad drunk, finally able to let out the emotions he refused to acknowledge when he was sober. While drunk, he began frequently uttering suicidal threats.

“Every time I got really drunk, the feelings would come out, I couldn’t hold them in, but I also liked it because the next day, when everyone was sober, no one would talk about it. I got to get really drunk and ex-

press my emotions, but I didn’t have to deal with any consequences or any awkwardness.”

Soon after, he joined a band and started playing a lot in bars, usually around more drinking and alcohol. After the band broke up, he and his girlfriend decided to move back to Indian Head and buy a house rather than rent.

“Around this time, my depression was sort of turning into anger, and in my family, a lot of the men have anger issues because it’s so old school, that’s just how they learned to express their anxiety and depression,” Rennebohm said.

“I really hated that, it was such a gross feeling. I’d rather be depressed than angry ... I just woke up mad all the time. I’d take it out on inanimate objects. If I burnt supper, I’d flip out and smash plates.”

But Rennebohm always blamed his anger on external issues, such as work or co-workers, and bounced from job to job. Eventually, he found himself at a stable job that paid more, but he was still miserable.

“Fifteen years ago, I kinda ‘manned up’ and went to the doctor and asked for help. That’s when I started medication for the first time. I was about 30 years old.”

While on antidepres-

Todd Rennebohm

sants, after a while, he felt like he needed more help and started seeing a therapist and a counsellor.

“I felt like I was being proactive and doing what I could. Of course, I was drinking and smoking pot all the time and not doing any of the work the therapist was giving me. In my mind, I was thinking, ‘I’m taking medication; why aren’t I cured? Why aren’t you curing me?’”

Psych ward visit

Finally, one day, everything came to a head, and he snapped. Hopping into his car during lunch, he drove into the country without knowing where he was going. Eventually, Rennebohm’s father and wife convinced him to go to the

psych ward in Regina.

“...that was a really big step for me. Like, ‘I’m in a crisis. This is going to take a lot for me to ask for help to the point that I’ll need hospitalization for my brain’ especially for men 15 years ago. That was a big step.”

After sitting in the ER for hours and talking to countless nurses and aides, a nurse finally told him he was in luck because a psychiatrist was in the hospital that night. Ultimately, he told Rennebohm to keep taking his medication, keep seeing his therapist, and made Rennebohm promise he wouldn’t hurt himself.

Then, he told Rennebohm to leave.

“He basically said, ‘I’m not going to admit you unless you’ve attempted suicide; we’re not going to admit you.’ Having suicidal thoughts isn’t enough of a reason to admit me ... they basically just told me to go home.

“...I felt embarrassed. I felt like I went to the hospital and I had a hangnail, and they were like, ‘put a bandage on it and go home’ … it perpetuated the stigma and made me feel stupid that I even went and looked for help. Like, clearly, I’m just a p***y … that was

pretty devastating for me.”

Over the next year, Rennebohm believed he was fine. He thought he’d get better if he took the pills the doctor told him to take. But he didn’t.

During that year, his suicidal thoughts evolved into an obsession with his death. He explained that when you’re first at the hospital, they’ll often ask if you have a plan to commit suicide or harm yourself.

“It didn’t matter where I was during the day; I had a plan. Whether I was at home, whether I was at work, whether I was on the way to work or at a friend’s house. It didn’t matter where I was … every night, I was pushing knives against my throat, against my wrist, against my chest. I had places at work where I could hang myself. I was obsessed with it.”

Eventually, after almost a year to the day of being turned away from the emergency room, it culminated in Rennebohm attempting to claim his own life.

“One day, I snapped again, and I don’t know if it’s psychosis or trauma to my head, but I don’t remember it exactly. I only remember fighting with my wife. It wasn’t even fighting, she

made a remark, and it made me snap.

Continued from Page 7

“I just started punching my face as hard as I could, banging my head against the countertops and against walls.”

His wife fled with the children and called Rennebohm’s brother and sister, who came to try and save their brother’s life.

“...at this point, I grabbed a knife, and I was like, ‘I’ve practiced enough; I’ve been revving up for this moment. My brother came after me, and I swung the knife at him and cut him.”

After Rennebohm’s brother successfully stopped his suicide attempt, Rennebohm’s sister-in-law phoned 911, and the RCMP arrived.

Then, all hell broke loose.

RCMP called in

“They thought my brother was trying to kill me or something. They didn’t know what the hell was going on. They kinda figured it out, and they were trying to handcuff me. But I got my hand out, and I grabbed one of the cop’s guns … I was begging, yelling at them, begging to shoot me,” Rennebohm said,

Continued on Page 11

The

Sharing a Vision Project wants to hear from you!

What is the Sharing a Vision Project?

Launched by the Battlefords Regional Community Coalition (BRCC, https://brccoalition.ca/), the Sharing a Vision project is exploring opportunities for the enhanced delivery of regional health, education and recreation services to overcome systemic racism in these three key service areas

The BRCC wants to understand the current opinion of the community at large regarding healthcare, education, and recreation servicesand the community vision for the future. We are seeking feedback through surveys and meetings with the member communities of the BRCC which represents local and regional Indigenous communities along with the communities of the Town of Battleford and the C ity of North Battleford.

The survey can be found at the BRCC website through the following link: https://brccoalition.ca/health-2/

Several community engagement sessions are set to kick off starting March 13 th - March 30th, 2023

The opinions generated through this survey will be confidentially stored by the BRCC and reviewed to help develop plans for a more interconnected regional community.

This survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Fully completed surveys will be entered into a prize draw. Your responses will remain anonymous. No identifying information will be collected, such as name, address, or birthdate. Responses will be kept confidential. Only aggregate (combined) data will be reported. Once your response has been submitted, surveys will be entered into a prize draw ranging from Tim Hortons gift cards to merchandize gift cards that will be drawn on a random basis.

If you have any questions, please contact the BRCC at 1 -306- 317-5834 or via the contact page on our website.

Are you considering a career as a pharmacist? A typical day in the life of a pharmacist involves many different duties. Here’s an overview of some of the tasks they perform.

• Fill, dispense and package medications. Pharmacists must ensure their patients have the correct prescription by determining the right brand, strength, form and quantity.

• Update and maintain patient records.

A typical day in the life of a pharmacist

Pharmacists review patient records to check for potentially dangerous drug interactions, order medications and keep in touch with physicians to discuss prescriptions.

• Give advice about over­the­counter medications. Pharmacists answer patient questions and recommend over­thecounter drugs to best treat their symptoms.

• Conduct medication consultations. Pa­

tients can speak with a pharmacist to determine how to take their medications. They can also find out if specific prescriptions need to be stopped or modified and if any will lead to unintended drug interactions.

• Provide vaccines. Pharmacists are qualified to administer various vaccines, including flu shots, COVID-19

boosters and travel injections that help protect people from hepatitis A and B, cholera, yellow fever and more.

Most pharmacists in pharmacies and drugstores work 40 hours per week, covering evening shifts, weekends and holidays. If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacist, look for training opportunities in your area.

Debunking 4 myths about pharmacists

March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month in Canada. It’s the perfect time to recognize, celebrate and express gratitude for the dedicated pharmacy professionals keeping you safe and healthy. Here are four common myths about pharmacists debunked.

1. Pharmacists never interact with patients. Working with patients is a big part of being a pharmacist. Pharmacists must regularly interact with patients by providing medication advice and counselling them on managing their health. They also guide patients on how to use medical devices, such as blood glucose and blood pressure monitors.

2. Pharmacists only work in drugstores or pharmacies. Pharmacists work in various exciting and diverse settings, including hospitals, drug development companies, government departments, nursing homes, community clinics and more.

3. Pharmacists count pills all day. Although dispensing medications is a critical service provided by pharmacists, they perform many other daily tasks, like reviewing patient records, requesting new prescriptions and administering vaccines.

4. Pharmacy work is less important than medical work. Pharmacists are essential in healthcare by ensuring patients get the best results and outcomes from their medications.

This Pharmacy Appreciation Month, make sure you take the time to thank a pharmacist.

What pharmacists can do during a drug shortage

There are many things that can lead to a drug shortage at your local pharmacy. This includes problems with the product, delays with the supply of raw materials, unexpected increases in demand and drug recalls. Here’s a quick overview of what a pharmacist can do in these situations.

• Check the availability of the drug. Other suppliers, wholesalers or manufacturers might have the product you need on hand. In some cases, the pharmacist may be able to import the raw ingredient of the drug to design their own capsules. If so, the pharmacist will ensure the product is safe and meets your needs before dispensing it.

• Change the dosage of another product. Depending on what’s available, the pharmacist may use higher-dose tablets and cut or powder them to create capsules that are similar in dosage to the product you normally take. They might also combine lower-dose tablets to achieve the same result.

• Propose a substitute treatment. The pharmacist may have a product with similar properties in stock. Before dispensing it, they’ll ensure the medication is suitable for you and won’t interact with your other prescriptions.

In all cases, you can count on your pharmacist to select a medication that’s right for you. They’ll also explain how to take the drug in order to maximize its effectiveness.

If you have questions about a medication you’ve been prescribed, your local pharmacist can help.

Crop Insurance Coverage will Reach a New Record-High

Crop Insurance coverage will average $446 per acre in 2023. Other highlights to the 2023 program include new individual premiums, increasing the maximum coverage for unseeded acreage, and increasing AgriStability compensation. The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) continues to provide higher coverage, helping to reduce risk for Saskatchewan producers. To learn more, visit Saskatchewan.ca or scic.ca.

306-445-5195

306-893-2619

Quilt Patch

Optimist Ad_Crop-Insurance.indd 1

Industry and creativity abound

By Barb Sealy

Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild

Quilt Canada will be holding its annual event in Halifax, N.S. June 7 to 10. It will undoubtedly be a display of quilting skills and techniques, originality and artistic talents, providing inspiration for all who attend.

The “show and tell” display at this month’s monthly meeting of the Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild was just as awe inspiring, as members revealed their latest completed projects. Nearly 30 projects were displayed, a testimony of the creativity, industry and dedication of the group.

During the month of

Festival Fanfare

February, members participated in a three-day quilt marathon that provided an opportunity to learn, exchange ideas and to further individual projects as well as cement friendships over sewing machines and coffee breaks. Another marathon is eagerly anticipated to be held during May.

The guild regularly donates quilts to various care agencies in the city, and this month, for the first time, quilts will be donated to the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation for their fundraising ventures. We hope the quilts will bring comfort and warmth to those recipients who are experiencing health issues. The quilts will be available

in the canteen for purchase. Quilting is not always about making quilts and during the month of March there are two sessions planned for other projects: one the construction of small bags to hold bric-abrac and another a wraparound apron to brighten kitchen tasks. Sometimes a change of pace is good.

Because the next date of our usual business meeting falls on Good Friday, the date has been moved up to March 31. Please join us, be you a beginner or experienced quilter, in the Don Ross Craft Room at 1 p.m. For more information, please call Carol (306-445-4352) or Heather (306-445-6776).

Almost

Explore the power of music at the 91st festival

By Kelly Waters Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival

The 91st annual Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival is nearing it’s opening day of Monday, March 13. Printed programs will be available to purchase at Sobeys

“We are delighted that the number of entries has increased significantly this year,” says BKMFA president Dianne Gryba.

“In the past few months, the Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival Association funded workshops in speech arts, Orff instruments, composition and fiddle playing for students and teachers in our district. Many of these groups are new to the festival and will enliven our sessions with their performances.”

The printed program

introduction shares timely words from North Battleford mayor David Gillan: “While most of us listen to music for entertainment, we should also remember that it can help boost overall well-being, from reducing stress and improving cognitive performance, to encouraging and inspiring creativity. The power of music is truly amazing as it touches us deeply, in ways that range from the obvious to the inexplicable.”

In a supportive statement from Battleford mayor Ames Leslie: “The Battlefords and region are so blessed with a multitude of talented and passionate individuals of all ages promoting the love of music through their discipline. Music is an art that teaches discipline and focus.”

With the local festival just around the corner,

participants should note several considerations. It is important to be on time and to hand in your music to the session secretary before the session starts.

No unprogrammed entries will be accepted, unless the failure to include the entries was the result of a festival committee error. Participants must perform the selection printed in the program.

Certificates will be presented according to the regulations outlined in the official syllabus. If competing for a mark, the scale is A+ 90 and above, A 85 to 89, and A- 80 to 84. Marks rating below 80/A- will no longer be assigned.

In terms of reminders to participants and the viewing public, common courtesy and performance etiquette must be kept in mind. Please do not enter

or exit the hall during performances. Please turn off cellphones and computers while in the festival venue. Photographs and videos of performers and adjudicators cannot be taken in the festival hall.

The 2023 Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival is scheduled to run from March 13 to 25. Strings performances will run in the afternoon of March 13 at the Kinsmen Band Hall.

Instrumental entries begin in the evening of March13 also at the Kinsmen Band Hall. Instrumental ensemble classes are scheduled Tuesday morning March 14 in the Lecture Theatre of North Battleford Comprehensive High School. Afternoon classes return to the Kinsmen Band Hall. The Kinsmen Band Hall continues hosting ensemble classes March 15 morning

and afternoon. The March 16 morning, afternoon, and evening classes at the Kinsmen Band Hall feature solo, duet and small ensembles classes. The final sessions for band and instrumental classes are March 16 at the band hall.

March 20 features speech arts entries in Logie Hall of Third Avenue United Church with morning afternoon and evening sessions. Tuesday morning March 21 begins with spoken word classes in Logie Hall followed by vocal solos. Evening classes, hosted in the sanctuary, feature sacred and baroque vocal classes. March 22, back in Logie Hall, are morning sessions with solo poetry followed by folk songs or ballads. The afternoon classes include speech arts classes and musical theatre classes. The evening ses-

sion begins with a classical voice class followed by numerous musical theatre classes.

Piano solo classes begin also Wednesday evening in the sanctuary. Piano classes continue Thursday morning March 23 in Logie Hall. The afternoon classes will be held in the sanctuary. Piano solos continue in Logie Hall Friday morning March 24 followed by sessions in the afternoon. The evening classes will be held in the sanctuary.

The final piano classes are Saturday, March 25 in Logie Hall. The gala awards night will be Tuesday, March 28 7 p.m. at the Dekker Center.

“No one’s born with their destiny stamped on their forehead. We make the choices to fulfill our destiny.” -

Naomi Judd (1946-2022)

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

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

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

20230302_News

30 completed projects were shared during show and tell at a recent Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild meeting. | Photos submitted

Road to recovery

Continued from Page 7 describing his subsequent hogtie at the hands of the RCMP.

The RCMP took Rennebohm to the hospital in Indian Head, where he was placed in an ambulance and driven to Regina. He arrived in Regina again a year after he was turned away, this time handcuffed after a suicide attempt, after swinging a knife at his brother, and strapped to a gurney with two RCMP officers at his side.

“I’m in the ER, strapped to a gurney, and I can hear them talking, even then, debating whether or not they should admit me.”

Eventually, they decided to admit him.

Rennebohm stayed at the hospital for a few weeks, where at one point, he upset the staff, and they took away his bed. He spent the night locked in a room with a mattress on the floor and observed through cameras.

While at the hospital, Alcoholics Anonymous tried to reach out to him, but he shooed them away, believing he wasn’t an alcoholic. But eventually, he did try to stop drinking, but he also made an effort to amp up his drug use, as he believed they were natural antidepressants.

Rennebohm eventually started his own business and began to improve. Then he stopped socializing and felt trapped by guilt and shame.

“I just smoked or drank by myself, at night, in my garage, alone.”

Then he read in the paper that the Regina health region was cutting 20 jobs, and 12 of them were psych nurses.

“... my jaw dropped. Because I was like, ‘what the f**k?’ I went there and asked for help, and they turned me away because of not enough beds or staff. When I was there, they had so few staff that they were constantly calling security to de-escalate. I was just so upset, and I wrote a letter.”

Rennebohm wrote about his life for the first time and began to send it to different newspapers. Eventually, it was picked up, and within a day, he was swarmed with news media from Regina.

The letter Rennebohm wrote was shared over 100,000 times.

“That was kinda the start of my advocacy … but I was still drinking and using. I was not in a good place. I was putting pressure on myself to keep advocating.”

Rennebohm organized a rally in front of the legislative building, and a week later, the pressure he put on

himself caused another incident at his home.

“I ended up getting so drunk, and I was in the garage having suicidal thoughts again, I was just like, ‘f**k, here we go again.’ I came to the house, out of the garage, and I sat at my computer, and that’s the night I wrote the first draft of my kid’s book, and honestly, I think, in a way, it was almost a suicide note.

“Once I was done typing, it was all blurry because I was very drunk and out of my mind, but I didn’t know what to do. I actually had a brief moment of clarity, and I woke my wife up and asked for help.

“I said, ‘I’m going to hurt myself, I’m going to die tonight, you have to help me.’”

At that time in Saskatchewan, several young Indigenous girls from Northern Saskatchewan had taken their lives within the same weekend, so the government was pushing the 811 number.

“My wife called the 811 number, and it was a Friday night. They were like, ‘we don’t have a counsellor in until Monday.’”

Rennebohm remembers his wife finally asking, “What’s the f*****g point of this f*****g number?” at which point they told her to take him to their local hospital, where Rennebohm spent another night.

Finally, Rennebohm was pushed by his doctor to detox and go to AA and a treatment facility.

“My doctor basically saved my life.”

That night was the last time Rennebohm drank alcohol.

Recovery begins

Rennebohm was allowed to detox at the hospital, started attending AA meetings, and started seeing addiction councillors who finally got him into the Pine Lodge Treatment Centre in Indian Head following a three-month, whiteknuckled wait.

“It was the hardest month of my life probably, it was scary and hard work, but it was the most wonderful and rewarding month at the same time. I was so grateful for them.”

After getting a new job in Regina, Rennebohm noticed his depression was almost non-existent. He had the odd suicidal thought but wasn’t obsessing over it anymore.

Though his anxiety was still high, he stayed on his medication and kept talking to his counsellor. Eventually, Pine Lodge asked him to speak to new clients once a month before they offered him a staff position.

“And it was amazing, people really connected with me because I had life experience, I knew what it was like to be an addict.”

A fire forced the centre to close, COVID-19 kept Rennebohm at home, and he decided to continue with the children’s book he had been working on for four years, Sometimes Daddy Cries.

“I kinda wrote it because my kids didn’t know much about this stuff, about what I was going through. There has got to be a way that parents can start up a conversation about mental health before they experience it in their family. Then if something like that does come along, they already have a grasp on what’s happening.”

After finishing the book, he decided to continue his advocacy work through a podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental Health.

“It was going to just be a series of eight episodes and talk to people in Saskatchewan, but it just kept going. I loved doing it. I’m talking to people all over the world, I have over 82 episodes, and I have another 10 recorded.

“I’ve talked to Robin William’s son, survivors of the Columbine shooting, I’ve spoken to people who were on Love on the Spectrum, like, It’s freaking amazing.

“About a year ago, I was still having anxiety, and it kinda came to a head again this spring … I had a bad

weekend, I had a panic attack, and I spent the night in the hospital just on observation, and shortly after that, I got on the list for an ADHD assessment.”

“I always thought it [ADHD] was like you can’t focus, and you’re hyper. And it’s like, throw that out the window. It’s way more than that.”

After his ADHD diagnosis, Rennebohm discovered that his anxiety, depression, addiction, and everything else were the symptoms of ADHD.

“Now I’m actually being treated for the actual cause of all this stuff and no longer trying to cure symptoms,” Rennebohm said.

Between starting ADHD medication and the diagnosis, Rennebohm feels free, finally having answers.

Life-changing answers

“Between that, and the coach, it’s been lifechanging. I still get anxiety, but ADHD isn’t curable, it’s hardwired … It’s going to be inevitable that I still have anxiety, but I have better tools. I can come at it with a better strategy than I did before. I can make sense of it better. It doesn’t spiral into depression and drinking.”

As Rennebohm progresses with developing

strategies for himself and continuing his advocacy, he is still determining how mental health care could be changed in Saskatchewan.

“Unfortunately, Saskatchewan has the highest number of DUIs, it’s got the highest numbers in Canada for spousal abuse, and I think it’s all tied into the mental health and not getting the help they need. They don’t think they need help. They think they’re just angry and drinking.

“Two years ago, a young guy went to the hospital asking for mental health help, and two hours later, they found him floating in Wascana … that almost happened to me 15 years ago, and it’s still happening? People are still getting pushed away?

“We’re all under the stigma … you don’t even realize you’re hurting, and that’s why you’re behaving this way; you’re not going to find those supports.”

Changes overdue

Rennebohm believes the mental health system is overdue for an overhaul.

“There has to be universal mental healthcare. I can’t afford personal counsellors and therapists, so I had to use the healthcare system, and it’s horrible for rural people. I have to drive

40 minutes to another small town to see someone.

“I know it costs so much money, but the more you invest in mental health, the more you get that back in return. You’re not paying for addiction issues, and for the last three years, we keep breaking the record in overdoes, but the government will not fund Prairie Harm Reduction. Some of it, but not the safe injection site part, which has been proven, with science, that it actually helps.

“But it’s the stigma, it’s idealism, it’s ignorance. It’s a beast. I’ve done a few rallies and protests, and it felt like I did nothing.”

Rennebohm has spoken to MLAs, the minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and everything else in between.

“I’m just going to be boots on the ground and help people one at a time. That made me feel more fulfilled than the protests and rallies … having mothers buy the book, people listening to the podcast, listening to other people’s stories, and going out speaking. I think if more people were doing that instead of trying to get everything changed all at once, I think that’s how you end the stigma.

“Go out and talk.”

Curtis Peeteetuce: The power of a name in storytelling

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

When Curtis Peeteetuce was asked in 2005 to create a non-verbal storytelling performance for the Native Theatre Company, he eagerly accepted. But his plan to feature a Saskatchewan powwow dancer quickly fell apart.

“Unfortunately, it was summertime, and all the dancers were busy. They were all out on the powwow trail, dancing everywhere across Saskatchewan. I couldn’t find anyone.”

Knowing the mistake could cost him his job, Peeteetuce decided to spend the three days before the event mixing various CDs and creating his own story.

His non-verbal story, Time Immemorial, spans Indigenous history and was the focus of Peeteetuce’s evening of storytelling at the North Battleford library Feb. 16 for Aboriginal Storyteller’s Month.

“When I think of immemorial, I think of a story. And for me, that is the story of Indigenous men and our experience here since time began.”

In the eight-and-a-halfminute interpretive dance, Peeteetuce paid tribute to the Indigenous men in his life and their stories, with the performance tracing the evolution of Indigenous

identity from pre-contact to contact, post-contact and, finally, revitalization.

“In this day and age, it’s so important, the final message being to return full circle to who we are, our identity.”

And as a Cree storyteller, dancer, artist and Aboriginal student achievement co-ordinator working in Saskatoon, when Peeteetuce talks about his identity and his home community of Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation, he’s not really talking about Indigenous identity.

“I think it’s more important to talk more or less about our personal identities. And when I talk about storytelling, I talk about the first story.”

No, not God. Not Adam and Eve or the first drum beat. The first story, in Peeteetuce’s mind, is your story.

“A lot of young people where I work don’t know who they are. I ask what the last names mean, and they say Cree and Indigenous, but what does it really mean? This generation knows nothing of who they are.

“My last name is Peeteetuce, and my first story is about my mom, my grandparents and, of course, the nurse and the doctor who were there. I consider the people who

were there when I was brought into this place, onto this big rock called Mother Earth, my first story.”

Peeteetuce spent years wondering what his name meant before asking his kookum while sitting in the back of his grandparents’ old station wagon. She told him it meant bear paws, but that doesn’t quite work in Cree.

Fast-forward many years, and Peeteetuce is working at the theatre, and he’s telling the story of his name to his friends who worked at the francophone theatre company, who said to him that it sounded like, “petit ours,” or little bear.

“Am I French?” He asked, recounting himself looking at himself in the front-facing camera on his phone after rushing to the store and reading the French-side of a box of bear paw cookies.

Peeteetuce believes the Indian agent who came to their community didn’t speak English. When he was taking the names of the families, he likely misunderstood them, and little bear, or paws, might have turned into Peeteetuce.

“What is in a name? Especially on this territory, Treaty 6 Territory. A name like Peeteetuce. There is a whole world of knowledge out there, and it begs the question, what’s in a name?

What’s the story of your name?”

Peeteetuce believes that it’s a part of your foundation.

“You stand strong. You can walk without holding your head down, without being shy, scared or awkward ... that knowledge base of who you are validates your being and story and validates your place on this planet.”

And storytelling plays an enormous role in Indigenous culture.

“We have four seasons here in our homeland, spring, summer, fall and winter. Spring and summer and fall are filled with activities, the animals are coming out, the ice breaks, snow melts and the plants grow,” Peeteetuce said.

“Plants flourish in the summertime and prepare to die in the fall. There is nothing but silence after the snow falls.

“Winter is so quiet. Sometimes it’s depressing ... that’s when it’s our time to tell stories. We’ve taken spring, summer and fall to watch, listen and learn. When the snow stays, that’s when storytelling season begins. It’s our turn to tell

the stories,” Peeteetuce said.

“... because culture shifts, we are now telling stories year-round, rather than waiting,” Peeteetuce said. He said he believes it’s important to tell them now that youth are listening and ready to soak up these stories like sponges.

And everyone tells stories, Peeteetuce reminded the room.

“In some way, form or fashion stories are foundations. It’s universal because

Wild’s Window

of that benign middle and end, and we do it every day, all the time. Storytelling belongs to all of us.”

When you include your own culture, stories and history, you make them your own.

“That’s the nature of stories, and it connects us to ourselves, our place, space, etc., and connects us together ... a story exists where you want it to exist. A story can exist anywhere, as almost anything. It’s almost that simple.”

Knock knock. Who’s there?

Oh, look, it’s our friend. The pileated woodpecker! Watching, I certainly question whether its neck is made of steel or not. Either way, the hairdo is quite flattering. |

23033PS0

Curtis Peeteetuce has been telling stories for years. | Photo submitted

Photo and text by Blake Feist

Twin Rivers Curling Club president Al Gabert presents Rob Bakken and his team of third Brent Taylor, second Trevor Gerein and lead Owen Gentes with the A event trophy at the conclusion of the club’s 98th annual open men’s bonspiel.

The B event was won by the Mitchell team with skip, Stewart Mitchell, third Adam Bugg, second Bill Knight and lead Henry Welford. The team accepts the trophy from Twin Rivers Curling Club president Al Gabert.

Bakken team wins 98th annual men’s open spiel

Submitted

Twin Rivers Curling Club

The Bakken team won the A event in the 98th Twin Rivers Curling Club

Men’s Open Bonspiel Sunday afternoon.

The team, with Rob Bakken skipping, third Brent Taylor, second Trevor Gerein and lead Owen Gentes, defeated the Kim Zoller team.

Sixty-four curlers representing 16 teams from across Northwestern Saskatchewan competed in four events Friday through Sunday.

C event winners: Doug Horn, third Steven Pederson, second Troy Harms, and lead Chad Harms. | Photos courtesy Twin Rivers Curling Club

Unity News

The B event was won by the Mitchell team with skip, Stewart Mitchell,

third Adam Bugg, second Bill Knight and lead Henry Welford.

The C event was taken by the Horn team; skip Doug Horn, third Steven Pederson, second Troy Harms, and lead Chad Harms.

The D event winners were the Schmidt team with skip Evan Schmidt, third Rene Steine, second Stan Kryszak and lead David Schmidt.

The Twin Rivers Curling Club next hosts the CurlSask Mixed Provincial Championship, March 16 to19. Single-day and event passes will be available at the door.

Local skier wins bronze at Sask. Winter Games

known at press time.

UCHS athletes who are part of wrestling competition headed to Meadow Lake March 3-4 weekend to compete at regionals. Former McLurg High School wrestler and UCHS teacher, Miss Huber, is one of the team’s coaches.

St. Peter’s Telemiracle fundraising efforts were part of the UCHS on-air presentation for the show.

By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

Did I forget to congratulate Unity’s Chenae Bowker in last column on her bronze medal earned in alpine skiing at Sask. Winter Games? Unity also followed Team Sask. hockey at Canada Winter Games, which resulted in a silver medal, and the team included Macklin’s Cole Reschny.

The Unity Curling Club are happy to report of a successful fundraising dance held March 4. They are now hosting weekly darts and social nights with other board games available, check out their Facebook page for the details.

There was no lack of wow factor in the annual ice carnival presented on March 5. Costumes, decorations, back drop and talent all combined for a great afternoon show. Longtime coaches Michelle BrownMcLean and Colleen Smith have been leading the club for more than two decades.

Several Unity Lazers teams have been eliminated from their provincial

quests, meaning the opportunity to watch hockey games is dwindling, although league playoffs are still in action. Western

Prairie Unity girls’ team will play Delisle to determine the northern champions with the first game taking place March 5. If you are looking for continued playoff hockey action, you can always head 20 minutes down the road and watch the Wilkie Outlaws as they compete for both an SWHL and provincial championship title. See the SWHL website for details.

Minor ball opened their online registration in mid February and their executive will be putting plans in place for the season. Once the arena ice is gone and the floor is dry, Unity Minor Ball will be using the rink for indoor practises and training.

At Unity Composite High School, it’s March madness for basketball teams as senior teams compete at conferences March 10 weekend.

UCHS junior curlers competed at their district event, held in Wilkie Feb. 28, but results were not yet

The Town of Unity has moved away from @sasktel.net email addresses and transitioned to townofunity.com email addresses. Please see their social media pages for a complete list of new email addresses.

At Parkview Place, they live to travel. Armchair travel trips are part of the tradition at the senior assisted living facility.

“We try to travel once every two months,” Manager Paula Sittler, says. “We pick a random country or city depending on upcoming holidays or places chosen by residents. To date, we have visited 20 different countries.”

The most recent armchair travel trip included the romantic city of Paris, for Valentine’s Day. Sittler says the mood was set with brass candle sticks and candles, roses, fancy tablecloths with the community contributing Paris souvenirs and artwork.

Residents dined on croissants and soft cheese as well as a sparkling apple and grape beverage.

The armchair travel trip includes story sharing, trivia as well as enjoying a travel video and this year, a rendition of the famous Parisienne “La Danse Apache.” Did you know that it was illegal until

2012 for women in Paris to wear pants?

“The residents really enjoy this activity,” Sittler adds. “Some continue to bring their original travel passports from four years ago when we started ‘traveling’ at Parkview Place.”

As spring approaches, Unity joins with other fire

For more Unity news visit

departments in reminding residents to be mindful of changing ice conditions and running water as both

can be very unpredictable, and conditions can change quickly. Trouble can arrive quickly in icy water.

Parkview place enjoys another armchair travel trip to Paris. | Courtesy Parkview Place

D event winners: Evan Schmidt, third Rene Steine, second Stan Kryszak and lead David Schmidt.

Meota and District News

Chilly ride raises $4K for Vawn playground

The material was prepared by the women of Taiwan. About 25 people attended. Program leaders were Elaine L’Heureux, Charlotte Greening, Darcy deMontarnal and Vicki Morin. Melanie Biggart provided the music and sang a solo. Lunch was prepared and served by the staff at the manor.

big upset wins over the Becotte and Welford rinks and hoping to keep things rolling. Terry Tait had other plans, as Tait came out firing on all cylinders with an 11-0 landslide victory as the white flag came out after four ends.

“The Dam” Bonspiel was hosted this past weekend at the Meota Curling Club. The Gil Cadrin led rink, featuring Jim Cole, Lynn Cole and Susan Cadrin went undefeated in four games to win the bonspiel. Cadrin defeated Darcy deMontarnel 8-5 the A event. Pat Mohr defeated Dave Code in the B event final and Al Colley defeated Randy Sharp in the C Final. Pictured is Pat Mohr presenting the trophy to the Cadrin rink. | Photo submitted

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

Spring is getting closer by the day, but we still have to cope with some cold days. The sun is brighter and the days longer, so every minute makes a difference.

The bridge players met Feb. 28 at the Pioneer Hall with three tables in play. Top score went to Anne Crozier and Albert Blais. In second were Catriona Winterholt and Richard Groves. Meeting again on March 2, with three tables, first and second were tied by Mary Phelps and Eric Callbeck along with Jean Lawes and Fraser Glen.

Norwegian Whist was

played at the Do Drop In March 3, afternoon, with three tables. First was Linda Ard, second Arlene Walker and third was Lillian Sorenco.

It was a chilly day March 4 when 45 riders helped raise over $4,000 for the Vawn playground equipment. The many donations really added up and the community appreciates every penny. Their next event will be mud volleyball to be held July 8. Mark your calendar.

Everyone is welcome to the next bingo to be held at the Edam Seniors’ Hall March 13 at 7:30 p.m.

World Day of Prayer was held in the Edam Manor March 3, at 2 p.m.

March 4: an afternoon of “fun and games” was held in North Battleford in the Towers. It was sponsored by the Sons of Norway. With a good turnout participants took part in various games — shuffleboard, crokinole, pool, tile Rummy, Sequence, Yahtzee and cribbage. There were games that many had not played, in years, which made it a challenge. Of course, the potluck supper was outstanding. It always is. Yvonne McPherson won the door prize, a beautiful miniature rose plant. Plans are already underway to host another such day.

Week 13 Recap

(By Derek Welford)

Randy Sharp and Gil Cadrin were in a tight contest Tuesday night. Big end for the Sharp rink in the seventh putting up four scores to go ahead by one point. With the hammer, Cadrin scored one and the game ended in a 6-6 draw.

Zane Lacousiere and Terry Tait met up Thursday night in a matchup that found the Langemeade icon coming in hot after

The Pat Becotte and Derek Welford rinks clashed in a Thursday night tilt which was highlighted by the return of Trent Lafreniere to the Welford rink and Robert St Amant exhibiting a great tan. Becotte came out of the gate strong with a 7-0 lead after three ends. With Welford scoring one point in the fourth, shakings hands was deferred to the sixth, as Becotte won 7-3 in front of a large gathering of curling enthusiasts.

Pat Mohr and Darcy deMontarnel played Tuesday night in a match where the first time Rule 8.8 was enacted from Curling Canada’s Rules of Curling 20222026 version. Speculation around the arena is that deMontarnel’s rock could have picked up a piece of straw, as Don Johnson’s curling pants also double as his cattle-checking pants. Pat Mohr scored one

in the sixth end and the final result ended in a 7-2 Mohr win.

Evan Schmidt’s fourpoint score in the sixth end propelled him to an 8-7 win over the Dean Menssa rink. Wanda Weber made a pivotal shot in the seventh that proved to be the difference maker, as she doubled up on Orchison 8-4. Kyle Doom and Kirsten Bru were all tied up heading into the final end, but Bru scored four in the final to win 9-4.

Curler of the week can be found throwing lead stones on Tuesday nights for the Randy Sharp team.

Dani Sharp earns the week’s highest honour for exceptional curling performance that has been exponentially increasing each and every week. A firsttime curler, Dani’s play and steadiness under pressure strongly correlates to the team’s recent success, as they are unbeaten in three of their last four games.

Mayfair and District News Milk jug curling in Hafford

at 4 p.m. (right after public skating) on Sunday, March 12. The cost is $10 for adults, children six to 12 years $5 and five years of age and under is free. Supper is available at the rink. This will continue into the first part of April, weather permitting.

Also in Hafford, the Goldenaires Club will host a pie and coffee outing 1:30 to 3 p.m. Friday, March 24.

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Heartfelt sympathy to the Van Nortwick family who lost a special person who resided on a farm west of Mayfair for many years. Ninety-two-year-old Anne Van Nortwick passed away this past week. Her sons, grandson and other family members have carried on with their mixed farming operation. Over the years Anne sent numerous greeting cards to others. She was a loving, generous, caring person all through her life.

A successful snowmobile rally has put Rabbit Lake on the list of popular

rallies throughout northern Saskatchewan. The Rabbit Lake District Agricultural Association would like to thank all the participants and volunteers. Winners are: Brian Thompson - $5,000; Eric Boyko$2,500; Ryan Conacher$1,250. The 50/50 winner was Kevin Balzer and numerous other prizes were drawn for. The weather was agreeable for all who enjoyed a well-marked, nicely groomed, hilly trail throughout the scenic winter prairie.

Winter isn’t over so Hafford is hosting “Milk Jug Curling,” which is a pilot project that will start

A local baker is baking all sorts of buns, bread and tasty desserts for those choosing delicious food. April Lafreniere is no stranger, as approximately eight years ago she and her sister owned a coffee shop in Hafford and also added catering to their business. This has been shut down and baking from home is an alternative. Her telephone number is in the phone directory under Speers.

Tina and Frank Prystupa are once again proud grandparents to a bouncing baby boy. Son Matthew and Roxanne have their firstborn child six weeks ago. Former owner of Whitkow Hotel, Ann Ewanchuk of North Battleford, is a greatgrandmother. Ann’s daughter, Erinka and Rory Jordan of Battleford, are excited first-time grandparents. Congratulations to all.

In the desert, spring has sprung as baby birds are hatching and one can hear a lot more birds merrily chirping. The flowering trees are starting to shoot out buds.

Everyone enjoyed the Shrove Tuesday Pancake supper held at the Meota Cafe. Pancakes, sausages and fruit with a side order of fellowship was served.

| Courtesy Susan Demcuck

One of the hundreds of vendors at the Yuma’s Medieval Renaissance Festival . This woman was selling vases and dishes made from vegetable shells.

| Photo by Elaine Woloshyn

POZDROWSKI: Minnie

Pozdrowski, age 85, of North Battleford, Saskatchewan passed away on Monday, February 13, 2023. Minnie is survived by her two daughters

Rosann (Max) Winterholt and Elsie (Bill) Poitras; her three grandchildren Seton (Michele)

Winterholt, Clayton (Danielle)

Winterholt, and Kendra

Poitras; her six great grandchildren; her special friend Carl Schell; her sisterin-law Marci Pozdrowski and her brother-in-law Frank Pozdrowski. Minnie was predeceased by her husband John, her parents Kostiuk and Rosie Prystupa and her brothers Peter, Tony, Fred and Victor. The funeral service for Minnie was held on Friday, February 17, 2023

CAMERON: It is with heavy hearts the family announces the passing of Mr. Rick Cameron on Sunday, March 5, 2023, at the age of 71 years. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. held at Third Avenue United Church with Reverend Jo Ann Hills officiating. Interment will follow at the North Battleford City Cemetery. The family has requested, in lieu of flowers memorial donations in memory of Mr. Rick Cameron can be directed to the Battlefords Humane Society Po Box 645 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y7. Condolences for the family or to view a recording of the Service please visit www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium - Trevor Watts Funeral Director.

In Loving memory of David Foster

Oft and oft our thoughts do wander

To the grave not far away, Where we laid our dear father, husband Just 3 years ago today.

Love from your family.

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

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

WARD’S & BUD HAYNES FIREARMS AND RELATED AUCTION. Saturday, March 25th, Edmonton. FirearmsAuction.ca. Call Brad Ward 780-940-8378; Linda (Haynes) Baggaley 403-597-1095 to consign.

HEIDT: Brian George Heidt passed away at the Lloydminster Continuing Care Centre, Lloydminster, Alberta on February 24, 2023 at the age of 76 years. Brian enjoyed music, cars, boats and skidoos and he loved spending time at the lake. He accomplished many goals during his career in health care, starting at the Battlefords Union Hospital in 1966, working as Assistant Executive Director at St. Joseph’s hospital in Estevan from 1969-1976, and retiring as the CEO of the Lloydminster Region Health District in 1999. He served on many boards and committees, notably serving on the Board of Directors for the Canadian College of Health Service Executives and as President of the Saskatchewan Association of Health Services. He was instrumental in planning for and building a new hospital for Lloydminster in 1988, and he directed the formation of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation in 1983. Brian is survived by: his devoted wife, Sharon; daughters, Terra (Ron) Weaver and Tracy (Lyle) Light, both of Lloydminster; seven grandchildren, Billy (Jessy), Cole, Tressa, Gage, Ries, Luke and Chloe; and one great grandchild, Paisley. Brian is predeceased by: his parents, Philip and Madeline Heidt; and his brother, Lionel. Respectful of Brian’s wishes, there will be no funeral service but a private memorial for Brian will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Brian may be made to the Washbrook Museum (cheques are payable to the Village of Edam - marked for the Washbrook Museum Sign Fund. McCaw Funeral Service Ltd., of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements. Card of Thanks

The family wishes to thank Dr. du Plooy and the kind staff at the Lloydminster Continuing Care Centre for their hard work making Brian comfortable there. We would also like to thank McCaw Funeral Home, specifically Glenn and Doreen for their understanding, support and kindness.

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

Black and Red Angus Yearling and 2 year old bulls. -Adrian Edwards 306-441-0946 Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK

Happy65th Birthday, UncleMorris!

Lovefromyour niecesand nephews!

Asurprisethatyou nowreceiveold agepension!

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

Liquor Permit Advertising Form

(Under

Notice is hereby given that 102159246 Saskatchewan Ltd has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) for a Retail Store Integrated, Tavern and Restaurant permits to sell alcohol in the premises known as St Walburg Inn at 26 1st St E St. Walburg SK S0M 2T0.

Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with SLGA not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this notice.

Every person filing a written objection with SLGA shall state their name, address, and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objection(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds, and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number. Frivolous, vexatious or competition-based objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing.

Write to: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Box 5054 REGINA SK S4P 3M3

FOR SALE

Beautiful Australian Shepard X Blue Heeler Puppies Mother is a working cattle dog. Born Jan.28 ready for their new home March 31st. Come with updated vaccination record. Call Christine: 306 445 8726 / 306 441 6835

battlefords humane society

I am a gentle giant that loves having my paw held. I love snuggles and I looooooove cats! Because I’m such a big boy I can jump really high so I’ll need to be chained, or live on a farm so I can run free!

I first came to the shelter almost a whole year ago with my twin brother. Now I’m chillin at the cat café and making more buddies. I’m kind of crazy and love to play!

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

battlefordshumanesociety.com

HIGH PRESSURE PUMP SERVICE CAT Pump / Interpump Parts & Accessories Pressure washer Service

D.A Lincoln Pump Service & Supply #4, 210 – 48th St. E SASKATOON, SK 306-683-6622 www.dalincoln.com kelly@dalincoln.com

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE of JOHN, JAMES ILLINGWORTH late of North Battleford, Saskatchewan, deceased. ALL CLAIMS against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 10th day of April, 2023.

Matrix Law Group 1421 - 101st Street North Battleford Saskatchewan S9A 1A1 Brent M. Illingworth

Turn Key Condo for sale, superior condition, Killdeer Court, Many Upgrades. Appliances included, like new condition.

Asking $169,000

Call 306-441-8244

306-445-7261

R.M. OF NORTH BATTLEFORD NO. 437

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days:

Monday to Friday

March 10, 2023 to April 11, 2023

(Excluding statutory holidays)

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

Any person who wishes to appeal against their assessment is required to file their notice of appeal with:

ADR Institute of Saskatchewan Inc.

Centralized Board of Revision

Secretary to the Board of Revision Box 328 Nokomis, SK S0G 3R0

Email: cbor@adrsaskatchewan.ca

The required appeal fee of $200.00 per property shall be addressed to the RM of North Battleford Box 187 North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y1. Dated in North Battleford, SK this 9th day of March, 2023.

Nicole Collins

Assessor

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

NE 10-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $98,780

SE 15-07-10W3

2022 Tax Ass $101,475

NE 14-07-10W3

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

2022 Tax Ass $89,320

YARDSITE ON HOME

1/4 NE 14-07-10 Consists of house, quanset, corrals, garage & bins

Contact Ritchie Pilgrim 306-620-9831 or pilgrimritchie @gmail.com

Integrity Post Frame Buildings

SINCE 2008 Built with Concrete Posts Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and More sales@ Integritybuilt.com

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

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

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT

BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN

SPRING THRASHED

WHEAT... OATS

PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX

“ON FARM PICKUP”

WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN

1-877-250-5252

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

Send resume and work references to:

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

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp this winter with possibility of year round. Winter location: Arborfield, SK. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food and handling ticket.

Send resume and work references to:

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

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca

www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

The R.M. of Meota No. 468 is seeking a customer service-oriented team player for the position of Administrative Assistant

About Us

We have a progressive Council that supports RM Employees to provide services to our residents, cottage owners, hamlet boards, agricultural producers, community partners and commercial developments. The RM is experiencing significant development interest in the energy sector, country residential, lake development and expansion of treaty land entitlement. Our office is located in the Village of Meota, 37 kms northwest of North Battleford.

About You

You have experience in accounting and general office procedures. You are looking for an opportunity to build your skills and develop a career in municipal government while contributing to a team that values hard work, fun and a job well done. A certificate in Local Government Administration or the desire to complete the required classes towards certification will be considered an asset.

About the Job

You will be the first point of contact with the industry and the public to provide customer service on a wide range of topics including: taxation, tax certificates, custom work requests, roadway services requests, overweight permits, burn permits and utility coordination. In addition to the core job responsibilities of filing, receipting, invoicing, assessment processing, website and communication systems you will have the opportunity to work on special projects and development of reports for provincial government ministries. Office hours are 9:00am -12:00 pm and 1:00 pm - 5:00pm, Monday to Friday.

About the Compensation

The R.M. of Meota No. 468 offers a comprehensive pension & benefits package. The salary range is $22.59/hr - $28.59/hr, depending on qualifications and experience.

Please respond with a covering letter and resume to:

RM of Meota #468, Wanda Boon, Deputy CAO

Email: deputycao@rmmeota468.ca

Closing Date: Friday, March 17, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

5 month old pups to Emergency re home due to unforeseen circumstances 5 males and 4 females. Call or text 780-618-5094 or 780-618-4923 for more information.

Hi I’m Fiona!

Hi I’m Big Bert!

Maidstone and District News

Senior girls top home tourney

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

Congratulations to Maidstone High School’s senior girls’ basketball team on winning gold at their home tournament March 3-4. Teams came from Eatonia, Kerrobert and Macklin to compete in the two-day event. Special thanks to the Grade 7s

who came out to help. The senior girls will be hosting conferences in Maidstone this Saturday.

Maidstone Curling Club’s Junior Bonspiel on March 4 drew 24 players on six teams. Winning team was Benjamin Owens, Lucas Kinchen, Parker Schempp, Brayden Yaceyko; second placeJael Allen, Joanne Owens,

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Rural Municipality of Battle River #438

Seasonal Grader Operator & Maintenance Position

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

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

Submit Resume to: Rural Municipality of Battle River #438 Box 159, Battleford, Sask.. S0M 0E0 Email: rm438@sasktel.net

Deadline for submission: March 22nd , 2023

For more information call: (306) 937-2235

Sincerely

Betty Johnson Administrator

Addison Young, and Bella Young. Draw-to-button winner was Ellie Kraft, toonie-broom winner was Amber Schempp and air pods raffle winner was Khloe Rempel.

Maidstone Curling Club’s “Let’s Rock This” raffle winners were announced March 4: Len Wagner won the Louisiana pellet smoker. Cheryl Winterhalt and Verna Donald each won a quarter of beef and half of pork.

Talance Stapleton had a fantastic time at Canada Winter Games. At 13 years old, she was the youngest athlete competing. With an icy course for moguls last week, she skied well but ran into bad luck on her backflip. She was still smiling with a 14th-place finish in single moguls. In duals on the last day, they raced another athlete. Talance came up against 18-year-old Lynette Conn from British Columbia who had won bronze in singles and went on to win silver in duals. It was an amazing experience. she says. This week Talance is in Caledon, Ont. for junior nationals, with training early in the week and the competition on March 10 to 12.

Maidstone Ice Arena made their draw for trip of the month March 6. Debra Sutherland won a trip to

Vancouver and Donny Ironchild won the ticket money back. Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club will host district 4-H public speaking in Hillmond Hall March 12 at 1 p.m. Take a Sunday drive to show support for these young people and hear some excellent speeches.

Maidstone Library has a new display for the month of March so be sure to check it out. They also have kits to sign out for preschool children which include all kinds of activities, games and even recipes to try with your kids, or read a kiting story and make a kite. A few kids from the elementary school have started a chess club. They’ll be meeting at Maidstone Library on Wednesdays after school. The Grade 3 class took a field trip to the town library March 3. They were excited to take out library cards in their names.

Ratushniak Elementary School (Maidstone) has basketball starting this week for Grades 5-6. There are six teams because so many kids signed up. Games will be in-house on Mondays and Wednesdays. Some of the students have started a singing club called Rock’n Rollers.

Kids Grades 1-6 meet every Thursday at lunch with Mrs. Sperling to sing songs.

program for infant to age six with free play, activities, parenting information and more. Caregiver must stay with child. Contact 306-825-5911 or info@ midwestfamilyconnections. ca for more information.

Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary is having a St. Patrick’s Day tea March 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Pine Island Suites. Admission is $4.00 with proceeds towards purchase of Lucas 3 chest compression equipment for the hospital and ambulances.

To book your team please email maidstone.disc.golf@ gmail.com with team name and number of people on team (up to eight). Disc golf will start as soon as Delfrari Park is melted – wishful thinking!

Do you enjoy working outdoors? THE MEOTA REGIONAL PARK AUTHORITY has several Spring and Summer 2023 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 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 Staff

The Meota Regional Park Authority is accepting applications for Park Office Staff. Full and Part-time positions are available. 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 2023 to mid September 2023

Park Maintenance Staff

The Meota Regional Park Authority is accepting applications for several Park Maintenance Staff positions for the Spring and Summer of 2023. 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 at the end September long weekend. Students are welcome to apply

Please email resumes to meotapark@sasktel.net on or before 5:00pm Thursday March 16, 2023. Please identify on your cover letter the employment position you are seeking.

Elder Adele Bear came to speak with Grade 6 students on the seven grandfathers (values) their culture focuses on. With the Grade 4 class, she spoke of the meanings of each part of the teepee, as students worked together in raising a teepee in their classroom. She related well with the students who were excited to be using the teepee for the next few weeks.

Midwest Family Connections is holding two family play and learn sessions in Maidstone March 13 and 20 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Ratushniak Elementary School in the Pre-K room. This is a drop-in

Waseca Community Center reminds everyone to join them March 15, 22 and 29 for socializing, cards and board games from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be a spring market at the centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 6. Contact wasecacommunitycenter@ gmail.com, Gloria 306830-0861 or Sandra 780872-8008 to book a table.

Maidstone Skating Club’s 74th annual carnival presents Glitter on Ice Saturday March 18 at 7 p.m. and Sunday March 19 at 1:30 p.m. at Maidstone Ice Arena. Admission: 12 and older $7, five to 11 $5, under five free. These skaters have been working hard all season and are excited to perform for everyone.

Maidstone Disc Golf and Maidstone Bowling Alley are teaming up again to bring you the final Trivia Fun Night for this year on March 25 at 7 p.m.

TAX ENFORCEMENT

Maidstone Trade Fair is less than a month away, Saturday and Sunday, April 1 and 2. It’s exciting to have the trade fair return after being canceled for a couple of years due to COVID-19. The committee advises there’s still room for vendors. Please email maidstonetradefair@gmail. com for your registration package.

In hockey, U11 Maidstone teams hosted the league final tournament last weekend. The Maidstone Blue team lost the final game to Meadow Lake so ended up second in the league.

U13 Maidstone combined with Neilburg played Friday March 3 in Delisle in round 3 game 2 of provincial hockey. Maidstone came back to tie the game 4-4. With three points they advanced to the next round of provincials in the Northern C finals.

U15 Maidstone won 6-4 over Debden in Maidstone on March 4 and advanced to round 2 of playoffs. My apologies for not having all the hockey news, but I just didn’t have time to try to get it all. It’s 1:37 a.m. and I’m giving up for this deadline.

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

Rural Municipality of Blaine Lake No. 434 PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 9th day of May 2023, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Dated this 9th day of March, 2023

Linda Klimm Administrator

Maidstone High School senior girls won gold at their home basketball tournament. | Photo submitted by Kathy Utri

Who will take a leap of faith?

I hate to say goodbye when it is time to move away from family, friends and home.

Saying goodbye is never easy nor is the question of whether it is better to go or stay put. Moving for me has always been a leap of faith.

Moving is easier if there are good reasons for leaving. Some of us old folks have to move on to a different lifestyle because we cannot manage anymore.

When our idea of a healthy meal is a bowl of cereal, we may need someone to cook something more substantial.

When pictures of the grandchildren are obscured by dust, and we

N

eighbourly

Advice

By Raymond Maher www.accordingtoed.com

would go for a walk outside, if we could find our house keys in the clutter, we may need a housekeeper.

Often, we resist moving from where we are at present because what we know seems better than an unknown future. We do not want to give up our independence or admit

that we need help.

When to say goodbye and leave is a tough decision to figure out.

Abram was 75 years old when the Lord said he was to move on. Abram was to leave his country, kin and family roots and go to a land the Lord would show him. The Lord had big plans for

Abram, but he must take a leap of faith to be part of the future God had planned for him. Abram must leave behind what was familiar and secure. He must trust God would do for him as the Lord promised him. The Lord had promised him, “And I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonours you I will curse, and in you, all the families of the Earth shall be blessed.”

(Genesis 12:2-3)

God said to Abram to go, so he went. He departed from his home at Haran with his wife Sarai,

his nephew Lot, his servants and his possessions. God led Abram to the land of Canaan. Abraham stopped at Shechem at the oak of Moreh. There the Lord appeared to Abram, promising him, “To your offspring, I will give this land.”

Abram trusted and obeyed God. Abram believed in the gracious or unconditional love of God.

He put himself, his wife, his family and his possessions in the hands of God. He trusted God when he was at Haran, and he trusted God to lead him to a new place to live.

Abram was and is the father of all who rely on God’s love and blessing wherever they may be.

Their security is in God, not themselves.

Abram was certain God would do right by him and his family. Abram needed no say in where God would lead him. He trusted God’s control of his life. Abram believed God when God told him, “To your offspring, I will give this land.”

The fact that Abram had no offspring then did not cause Abram to doubt God. Abram trusted the love of God to use himself to become a blessing for all the peoples of the Earth.

He knew God was able to do what He promised.

Chase the ace jackpot growing: Who will win?

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

The Borden Lions held their regular monthly meeting on March 2 and the main topic was the district governor’s visit March 18, when DG Beryl Bauer will visit for a meal and to induct new members followed by musical entertainment by Celtic Country.

The Lions donated $100 to Borden School Breakfast program for March and will be holding a Mother’s Day brunch Sunday, May 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Borden Community Centre. There will be a door prize and the proceeds will go to diabetes.

Two post-secondary students had written essays for the Lions’ scholarship award of $500 – Rachel Sutherland and Danika Pidwerbesky. The winner will be awarded the scholarship at a later date.

The winner of the second week of chase the ace drawn March 2 was Jamie Drover from Lloydminster who won the weekly prize of $76. Until the ace of spades is drawn, the jack-

pot will keep growing and the payout will get larger. You can buy tickets locally at the village office, Lion Bev Assman or Roadside Inn or you can get them by emailing bordenlionsraffle@gmail.com.

Rachel Sutherland, who is enrolled in the College of Agriculture at the U of S, along with 10 other students from the college, have just returned from a trip to Ecuador. They travelled to various villages to study their farming practices. The weather was great as it was summer there, until the last day when it rained, but they didn’t enjoy the food served. Rachel has to write a paper on her trip and also speak about her experience. The students get credit for the trip.

St. John’s Anglican Church hosted the World Day of Prayer service March 3, with a great turnout from the Lutheran and other churches. The service was prepared by the WDP Committee of Taiwan and was shown on a large screen in the church, with Rev. Sheldon Carr hosting the event.

The video began with

At right, an appropriate display was set up at St. John’s Anglican Church for World Day of Prayer. The Taiwanese theme reflected the efforts of Brenda Tumbach. Above, Some of the teapots on display with Brenda Tumbach ready to serve.  | Photos by Lorraine Olinyk

facts about Taiwan, which grows more than 250,000 species of flowers and fauna and is home to 23.6 million people.

The service began with opening hymn with Linda Hosegood playing the organ/piano, and ladies from Ontario and other parts of Canada leading in scripture, meditation, faith stories of women and girls in Taiwan, intercessory prayer and various choirs and singers from across Canada

rendered their versions of hymns, songs and dance.

Offerings of more than $700 will be sent to the Women’s Inter-Church Council of Canada. They distribute WDP grants of up to $5,000 to various causes in Canada and around the world.

The service concluded with a hymn and then adjourned to the church lower hall where lunch was served. The wonderful decorations were sup-

plied by Brenda Tumbach, featuring large ferns and many bouquets of flowers in the church and then downstairs she had graced the tables with red tablecloths, gold runners and many candy dishes or teapots filled with Taiwan candy. She had Taiwan displays at the front by the

food tables and many teapots – miniature and larger — were on display. Served were many varieties of tea with pineapple cakes or squares along with all the candies. A door prize of a rock gem from the Gem Shoppe in Radisson was won by Jackie Meister of Borden.

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160± Title Acres Farmland · 136± Cultivated Acres

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7 Parcels of Real Estate · 0.14± Title Acres ·

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301± Acres of Farmland

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Zoned Agricultural

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