Regional News-Optimist May 25, 2023

Battlefords RCMP make arrests in crime spree Three-day

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY

As of Tuesday, police had arrested two people and were searching for one more suspect in connection to incidents in Maidstone, Biggar, Poundmaker Cree Nation, Maymont area, and the Battlefords.

Leonard Wuttunee, 48, from Moosomin First Nation, and Dennis Kennedy, 34, from Red Pheasant First Nation (who was still at large as of Tuesday), are charged in connection to all of the incidents. Veronica Whitford, 44, from Battleford, is charged in connection to the Maidstone incident.

The alleged crime spree spanned three-days.

On May 14, a grey F-350 Super Duty Ford truck with Saskatchewan licence plate 720 KBF was reported stolen out of North Battleford. The same day, just before midnight, Maidstone RCMP responded to report of an armed robbery at a home involving a firearm in Maidstone. Police say that two men wearing ski masks and a woman demanded money from those at the home. When the suspects left the resi-

dence, one of them shot a bullet from a firearm into the air. There were no injuries reported to police. Officers responded immediately and observed the F-350 fleeing the area. Maidstone RCMP advised area detachments to be on the lookout for the truck.

On May 15, at about 10 p.m, Cut Knife RCMP officers were patrolling on Poundmaker Cree Nation when they spotted the truck and activated their emergency lights and attempted a traffic stop. The truck didn’t stop and fled at a high rate of speed. Officers patrolled and extensively searched for the truck, but it wasn’t located.

On May 16, at approximately 2:30 a.m., Battlefords RCMP found the truck on 110th Street in North Battleford and officers activated their emergency lights trying to get the truck to pull over.

About 12 hours later, on May 16, Biggar RCMP received a report of a firearm being discharged at a rural property in the RM of Glenside. Police determined the truck entered the property and a group of men tried to steal diesel from a tractor. The suspects discharged a firearm when fleeing the

property. Biggar RCMP immediately patrolled the area for the truck, but it wasn’t found.

Sask. RCMP had issued a Crime Watch Advisory for Biggar RCMP detachment area on May 16 at 3:41 p.m. saying “vehicle has rammed police, suspects are armed.” In a media release on May 17, however, RCMP said that it was a Battlefords RCMP police vehicle that was rammed. The driver didn’t stop and rammed a police vehicle. The officers weren’t injured but the vehicle was damaged to the point of being inoperable. The truck was located on Highway 4 and officers once again attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled.

Then, the night of May 16, Warman RCMP got a report of a fuel theft in Maymont potentially involving the suspect truck. Soon after, they received a report the truck was observed leaving a gas station on the Yellowhead Highway near Radisson. Officers located the truck on Highway 16 near the Borden Bridge and attempted a traffic stop. The truck fled. Officers conducted extensive patrols. The truck wasn’t found.

Continued on Page 5

Unmarked graves sought before construction begins at The Ridge

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The search for residential school victims and unmarked graves continues in The Battlefords with the start of ground penetrating radar at the site of a former industrial school and seat of government on May 19.

Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation was awarded $5.82 million from the provincial and federal government to fund the creation of an interpretive cultural centre at The Ridge, but they want to know if any children who never returned home are still waiting to be found before continuing the joint initiative with the MGBHLM Economic

Development Corporation Inc.

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

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

The ground penetrating radar will continue until May 24, which was expect-

ed to culminate with a feast open to the public on May 25.

If remains are found, Beaudry noted that it will be like saying, ‘I found you’ to the missing Indigenous children.

“We’ll recognize where they’re located … respect that site and mark it.”

Beaudry also noted that the university is expediting this process, with results expected to be known within the next three to four weeks before the ground is broken later this year for the new interpretive centre and art gallery.

“We can’t just go in and build … we have to respect,” Beaudry said, adding that “...we remember those who have passed before us.”

The search for missing First Nation children has begun at the site of a former residential school in Battleford. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

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Rate dropped to 5.34 per cent

Brayden Klimosko was named CJHL Coach of the Year

By Robin Wark SASKTODAY.ca

An unexpected $179,213 increase in the City of North Battleford’s municipal revenue sharing grant has led to a slight reduction in previously approved 2023 property taxes.

A press release from the city notes that although the previous taxation rate was approved to be 5.99 per cent in December 2022, after the May 8 council meeting, council agreed to reduce the tax rate to 5.34 per cent following a presentation from administration offering several scenarios for disbursement of the extra funds.

The tax reduction was chosen while also ensuring the availability of $100,000 to cover costs to fix signal and light poles on Territorial Drive and an additional $25,000 toward the cost of a backup generator for the airport runway, pending approval of the city’s $25,000 Community Airport Partnership grant application.

“The 2023 average taxable value of a residential property with 50 feet of frontage is $153,120, and based on that value, it would cost $948.46 in municipal tax, a $54.24 per year increase from 2022,” reads the release.

“The net increase in taxes and levies in 2023

will be an average of $130.83, equal to a $10.90 increase per month from 2022 and the total increase on municipal levies, including UPAR, is 5.15% for residential properties in North Battleford.”

The city council approved a 16.7 per cent 2023 UPAR increase in December. The 2023 UPAR Rate Bylaw remains unchanged after the May 8 council meeting.

Residents can expect their tax notices for 2023 to be mailed out by no later than May 31. The intended deadline to pay 2023 property taxes is June 30.

From the Centennial Cup, the Battlefords North Stars brought home a national award, a tournament honour, and a runner-up finish.

On Sunday, the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League champion North Stars fell 4-0 to the Brooks Bandits in the national Junior A title tilt in Portage, Man. It was Brooks’ third straight championship with wins in 2019 and 2022 and the tournament being cancelled in 2020 and 2021.

The Alberta Junior Hockey League Bandits were ranked No. 1 in the final Canadian Junior Hockey League rankings before the tournament while the Battlefords was No. 2.

Coach of the Year

During the Centennial Cup, it was announced that North Stars bench boss Brayden Klimosko was named the CJHL Coach of the Year and with it received the Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award. Head coach Haugan and assistant coach Cross were among the 16 lives claimed in the April 6, 2018 Broncos bus crash. It obviously is a special honour for Klimosko, a Humboldt product, as he was an assistant coach for Haugan on his hometown Broncos and knew Cross some as he rented Klimosko’s home.

award will be officially presented in person at the 2023 National Hockey League Coaches’ Association’s Global Coaches’ Clinic on June 28.

As the CJHL Coach of the Year, the bench boss and the North Stars will receive:

$5,000 contribution to the team on behalf of the NHLCA.

$5,000 worth of Bauer Hockey equipment.

Klimosko and an assistant coach are invited to attend the 2023 NHLCA Global Coaches’ Clinic in Nashville, Tenn., prior to the NHL Draft as guests NHLCA.

Top Goaltender

North Stats netminder

Josh Kotai was named the Centennial Cup Top Goaltender. The award is given out after the round robin portion of play. In the North Stars’ four pool play games, Kotai had a 1.75 goals against average and a .944 save percentage. Kotai was the SJHL’s Top Goaltender after recording 32 wins, a 2.39 GAA, and a .935 save percentage. During the SJHL postseason, the veteran goalie was 12-1 with a 1.72 GAA and a .945 save percentage.

North Stars Stats

Hudson Malinoski scoring. With 15 seconds left in the frame, Malinoski scored again to make the score 4-0. Neither team was able to find the back of the net in the third.

Kotai stopped 37 of the 41 shots he faced. For Brooks, Ethan Barwick had 30 saves for the shutout.

Semifinals

The North Stas made it to the Centennial Cup finals by romping past the host Portage Terriers, 7-1, in a semifinal contest on May 20. Battlefords lit the lamp four times in the first – including twice on the power play. Scoring for the North Stars are Alex Izyk, Kesslering, and Doell, who had two goals.

In the second session, captain Jake Southgate and Bradley Blake scored to make it 6-0 for Battlefords. Both goals came with the man advantage. At 18:56 of the period, Portage got on the board with a Matt Wisener marker. Riley Girod made it 7-1 for the North Stars and wrapped up the game’s scoring at the 10;22 mark.

The Derina Harvey band made their highly anticipated return to North Battleford on May 6, as the Dekker Centre welcomed their second last show of their 10-year celebration season. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

This past season Klimosko led his team to a 48-5-2-1. The squad was ranked No. 1 in the country for 15 weeks. They did not lose a contest in regulation in the 2022-portion of the SJHL schedule. The North Stars lost the first game of the playoffs and then reeled off 12 consecutive victories. Klimosko, who led Battlefords to a 2019 league title, was named the SJH Coach of the year in 2020, 2022 and 2023. The CJHL Coach of the Year

At the Centennial Cup, Doell paced the North Stars with eight points. Steven Kesslering tied with Brooks’ Aidan Fink for the tournament lead in goals with six. Holden Doelll and Kian Bell led the North Stars with six assists each. Kotai had a 2.02 GAA and a .939 save percentage.

Cup Finals

The national championship game was scoreless after the first period. In the second frame, the Bandits got rolling. They scored four straight goals. The first three came within a two-minute span between 10:08 and 11:45 with Hunter Wallace, Heath Armstrong, and

Kotai only allowed only one goal on 31 shots. Justen Maric played just over two minutes at the end of the game for Battlefords but did not face any shots. For Portage, Bailey Monteith started and stopped 16 of the 22 shots that came his way. At 14:12 in the second, Jayden Catellier came on in relief. He had 15 saves on 16 shots.

Pool Play

As reported last week, the North Stars opened pool play by beating the Kam River Fighting Walleye, 4-1, and falling to the Collingwood Blues, 3-1. The squad rebounded with two straight victories to qualify for the playoffs by grabbing the top spot in their pool and earning an automatic berth into the semifinal round.

Continued on Page 6

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

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.

The high cost of living a glutenfree lifestyle

By Sylvain Charlebois

Most Canadians don’t know that May is Celiac Awareness Month. Almost 400,000 Canadians have been clinically diagnosed with celiac disease.

That’s about the size of a city like London, Ontario. For those with celiac disease, eating gluten-free food is far from a lifestyle choice. They must eat gluten-free food, full stop. Cross-contaminated food is also off-limits, which is why Health Canada has made it mandatory to label products that contain gluten.

This represents a huge win for those Canadians affected. Anything containing gluten, which contains wheat, rye, or barley, is labelled. But gluten-free products are incredibly expensive.

The cost of gluten-free food products remains a significant challenge for individuals with celiac disease and gluten-intolerant consumers. In fact, research suggests that gluten-free products can be up to 150 to 500 per cent more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts. For example, gluten-free bread is 240 per cent more expensive, according to Celiac Canada, and gluten-free pasta is 160 per cent more expensive.

This difference in price can result in a significant financial burden for an individual. The extra cost of choosing gluten-free compared to regular foods can easily exceed $1,000 per year. This can be challenging for those with limited financial resources, especially with already higher food prices these days.

A recent survey from Celiac Canada suggests that some people with celiac disease had to begin accessing food banks after their diagnosis due to the cost of glutenfree food. In fact, many had to go to a food bank at least once a month. For someone with the disease, not having access to affordable gluten-free products is like not having access to affordable medicine they need to survive.

In the same survey, a significant proportion of respondents expressed that the cost of gluten-free food has increased compared to that of pre-pandemic levels, leading to financial challenges for many. This underscores the significant burden that the cost of gluten-free food places on individuals and families living with celiac disease in Canada.

It is also important to note that celiac disease is highly underdiagnosed. In fact, up to 85 per cent of individuals with celiac disease are estimated to remain undiagnosed. This is a disturbing trend, given the potential long-term health consequences of untreated celiac disease, which can include poor absorption of nutrients, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Having celiac disease can be costly in more ways than one.

Some groups are advocating for the “grocery rebate” to be enhanced for people with the disease. At first

glance, it seems like a measure that could help. But it may not be an ideal solution to subsidize those who need to buy these products. Such an approach could potentially make these products even more expensive.

Instead, giving incentives to companies to focus on gluten-free products would increase competition and put pressure on companies to reduce their prices. That’s exactly what’s happening with the plant-based section at the grocery store, for both dairy and meat alternatives. More options and supply will eventually bring prices down.

The taste of some of these products also leaves a lot to be desired. Some improvements have been noticeable in recent years, but it is still a work in progress. We have seen some improvement over the last decade, but more needs to be done.

Economically, however, it’s hard to get food companies excited about a limited market of about 400,000 people. More awareness of the disease is critical in order to decrease the number of undiagnosed sufferers.

In recent years, we have seen some celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Jessica Alba claiming that they are either allergic or intolerant to gluten. Many of these stars have made gluten-free products a part of a new lifestyle. Some celebrities have the disease, but most don’t.

If more celebrities speak out, it can create more awareness of the need for gluten-free products, as long as

we can clearly distinguish between a dietary choice and having the actual disease. Recognizing both markets can only build a better case for food companies to consider the gluten-free market.

More affordable, better-tasting non-gluten products are what many Canadians deserve. While some need these products, others just want them, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Recognizing needs and wants can certainly lead to more food innovation.

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

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More affordable, better-tasting non-gluten products are what many Canadians deserve

Complex Issues

By R.H Wood

North Battleford

I had been so feverishly fraught lest Mr. Trudeau be trapped in Japan by the threatened airline strike until remembering he doesn’t travel on late arrival, non-appearing, overcrowded planes suited for commoners - he jets on holiday or state business in hyper first-class planes supplied by the military. If delayed in Japan, I thought he might visit Takayama and view the relocated Scottish castle re-named Lockheart, but no, he used his time to lecture the yet green Italian lady prime minister on social matters, something of a faux pas. This country was set alight when General de Gaulle added “libre” when he cried “Vivre le Quebec” in 1967. That was considered a diplomatic incident which greatly upset Prime Minister Pearson. Mr. Trudeau is an elder in the G7 group and also the tallest which explains his legs apart stance, however height and seniority do not confer wisdom.

Last Monday, May 22. was Victoria Day, first declared in 1845 in honour of Queen Victoria and Britannia’s world domination and “ruling of

The

WoodPile

the waves” etc. It is only celebrated in Canada and in some parts of Scotland – not where I lived. I was thinking the next day could be called “David Johnston” day and that these two days could be rolled together under this new name thus mollifying those who wish to tarnish, topple or trash everything royal. Unfortunately, Mr. Johnston’s report is an unacceptable whitewash failure and his role should be terminated. I understand the reasoning but greatly question the wisdom of the G7 conference being held in Hiroshima as this dredges up extremely painful history. At two never to be forgotten sites America inflicted

destruction, death and indiscriminate lifelong suffering on countless thousands, causing Japan to cease hostilities. This lesson will not be lost on Putin – a single judicious nuclear bomb could easily force Ukraine to its knees and into submission.

The “war” would cease, Zelenskyy would be exiled, and Russia would declare victory. Putin would cynically and in my view correctly prognosticate that the “west” would choose

not to risk responding in kind despite all the rhetoric and peace would result. The allies would then redirect their efforts and munificence into rebuilding the so evilly and unnecessarily shattered Ukraine.

When I was young there was a fetish, perhaps Victorian, to divide personalities into complexes, superior and inferior being the most common groups. Looking back on those days, I think this was damaging in life

to many. Complexes were regarded as innate, often hereditary but ingrained and irreversible. Three current examples are worthy of study.

Firstly, Mr. Trudeau suffers horribly from a superiority complex. He is aloof and arrogant, oblivious to any criticism and impervious to it. Secondly, Chrystia has a severe arrogant and dictatorial complex issue which grates on my nerves, worse than chalk on a school board.

Thirdly, we have Prince Harry who has the most severe case of inferiority complex which is largely hidden but explains his bizarre claims and grossly self-demeaning book. This is a real shame as he has many fine qualities and undoubted achievements, for example his service in Afghanistan. For assessment and appraisal of other individuals, please apply in writing, enclosing an appropriate fee and legal indemnification.

Battlefords RCMP make arrests in crime spree

Continued from Page 1

The next day, at about 8:10 p.m. on May 17, Battlefords RCMP got a call about an assault on Moosomin First Nation. Police say an altercation occurred between a man and a woman and a firearm was discharged, injuring the woman. She was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. The man took off in the truck.

About three and a half hours later, Battlefords RCMP Gang Task Force found the grey Ford F-350 Super Duty Truck and tried stopping the vehicle. It didn’t stop and continued driving on local roads, several fields, then on to Territorial Drive in North Battleord. It came to stop in a ditch and two occupants were arrested without incident. A third fled on foot.

Officers patrolled the area and arrested an individual a short time later. This individual was later released without charge.

Wuttunee is charged with two counts robbery/theft, reckless discharged of a firearm, carry a weapon for the purpose of committing an offence, flight from police, two counts possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, two counts dis-

charging a firearm with intent, two counts possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, pointing a firearm, assault causing bodily harm, possession of weapons contrary to a court order, mischief, and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

Whitford is charged with robbery, reckless discharge of a firearm, flight from police, mischief, and possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000.

Kennedy is charged with two counts of robbery/theft, reckless discharge of a firearm, carrying a weapon for the purpose of committing an offence, two counts of flight from police, two counts of possession of the proceeds

of crime over $5,000, discharging a firearm with intent, possession of a weapon

for a dangerous purpose, resisting arrest, mischief, and dangerous driving.

Now and then –left, March 29, right, May 19. | Sarah Wood took these photos out of the living room window.

B’fords Blend members honoured with awards

Submitted

Battlefords Blend

Region 26 of Sweet Adelines International held its conference and competition at TCU Place in Saskatoon this year. It was the first in-person competition since the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic and the members were ready to celebrate.

Battlefords Blend Chorus had a lot to celebrate. In addition to the competition itself, two members were recognized with special awards.

Linda MacDonald was recognized with the Spirit of Region 26 Award. MacDonald has been a member of Sweet Adelines for almost 20 years. She got involved with board responsibilities soon after she joined. She began as a director of Ways and Means and then served as president for many years. She has been an overseer on all events hosted by Battlefords Blend Chorus and continues to serve on the

board of directors. She has often said that she would have joined sooner had she realized one did not need an invitation to join. MacDonald is most comfortable in the lower singing register and has made her home singing baritone.

One of MacDonald’s fondest memories is of her first workshop at the Bessborough Ballroom in Saskatoon when during the mass sing, 700 women sang "How We Sang Today." She was overcome with happiness and cried. This organization has been a place for her to develop some strong friendships and close bonds.

Last year Sandra Helseath won the Spirit of Region 26 Award and this year she was recognized for her 50 years “on the risers” as a member of Sweet Adelines International (SAI). She started with SAI in Saskatoon, but when she and her husband retired to Livelong, she joined Battlefords Blend Chorus and

North Stars

Continued from Page 3

On May 15, Battlefords led 1-0 and 3-1 at the intermissions, respectively, on the way to a 3-2 win over Portage. Kesslering opened the scoring in the first period. Wiesner tied things up at 1-1 in the second. Blake and Southgate responded with powerplay markers to make it 3-1 for the North Stars. Tayem Gislason brought the Terriers within one, 3-2, with a goal at 10:04 in the third.

Kotai stopped 35 shots. Monteith made 34 saves.

The North Stars posted a 3-1 victory over the Steinbach Pistons on May 16. Kesslering scored for the North Stars in the first. At 4:40 in the third, Steinbach’s Noah Szabo’s goal tied the contest at 1-1. Bell put Battlefords back on top with a goal with a second more than three minutes remaining. Kesslering added an empty net marker.

Kotai and Pistons goalie Dominik Wasik each had 30 saves.

travelled an hour and a half to rehearsals every week.

The other members who received recognition were Gail Rokosh, Jean Brehon and Oksana Parkhomenko who “crossed the stage” for the first time. It was their first performance at competition as they are three of the newest members of Battlefords Blend.

Although Battlefords Blend didn’t receive any awards, this was the first time in more than a decade that they competed in the International Division. The chorus, under the direction of Jo Carter, managed to increase their score by more than 25 points. This was a major accomplishment considering that most choruses scored lower than usual this year.

Like many of the choruses in Region 26, and around the world, Battlefords Blend lost members during the course of the pandemic. Thanks to the efforts of the membership committee and the entire chorus, the chorus is growing again and hopes to get back to having 25 members or more before the year’s end.

One of the things that may help is the coming guest night at 6:45 on May 30th at Battleford United Church in Battleford. At the guest night on May 16, three potential members attended plus another couple who wanted to learn more about a chorus they already love.

Everyone is welcome to come and learn more about barbershop harmonies and how SAI works and the hope is that some will be interested in joining the group to help us “ring those chords”.

“One of the nicest things about Battlefords United Church,” commented current president Andrea Stewart, “is that the acoustics allow us to sometimes hear the overtone notes that nobody is actually singing. It can bring shivers to some and it’s always wonderful to hear.”

Of course, new potential members are always welcome to come out or contact us to learn what we’re all about. But coming to the guest night on May 30 would be a great start.

Members of Battlefords Blend attended and performed at the Region 26 of Sweet Adelines International conference and competition at TCU Place in Saskatoon.|

Photos submitted

ACT donates $2,500 to Baseball Museum; 2023 inductees announced

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association Inc., held their 40th Annual General Meeting in Battleford recently, electing a full slate of officers and directors.

The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Game also recently announced the 2023 inductees into the hall of fame. They are

listed below:

Corey Borthwick - LaRonge

The late Gordon [Reginald] Campbell - Avonlea

The late George Ciocia - Assiniboia

Larry Flicek - Neilburg

Kevin Frey - Sylvan Lake

Brad Gyug - Lumsden

Daryl Keller - Pilot Butte

The late Ralph MabeeSaskatoon

Brian Peters - Saska-

toon

Darryl Rowley - Edmond, Oklahoma, USA (North Battleford)

The Late Dick ScottMilestone

The Late Glen Shockey - Perdue

Honourary Induction

- the late Louis GreenJacksonville, Florida, USA (NB Beavers)

In the Team Category: Lloydminster Meridian Twins Senior 2000-2014 Baseball Team

Battlefords Boys and Girls Club celebrates year of resilience and growth

Submitted

Battlefords BGC

Battlefords Boys and

Girls Club held an annual general meeting May 18.

“2022 can be described as a year of resilience and grown for BGC Battlefords,” according to President Darcy Woolfit and Executive Director Nicole Combres.

“After more than two years of program adjustments/closures, virtual meetings and events, along with reduced capacities, we experienced our first normal year coming out of the pandemic.”

With all programs and services operating at eight different locations

throughout the year, the impact made was significant, the organization’s leaders say.

Drop-in programs, satellite site programs, special programs, summer adventure day camps and summer parks drop-in programs saw nearly 750 participants, with more than 660 of those being children and youth receiving direct service delivery.

Within those programs that operated over 290 days of the year, BGC served 11,230 meals and 23,228 snacks. This is an increase of more than 16,000 snacks and meals served the year prior.

Appreciation has been expressed by parents and

guardians.

“The club is such a lifesaver. We are really fortunate to have your programs here (in the Battlefords). You do a lot for the community,” according to one parent.

“My son asks to come all the time.”

Another stated, “You guys are such a blessing.”

Battlefords BGC participated in a Canada-wide evaluation project — the Learning and Impact Project. The purpose was to help clubs understand and improve their impact on the lives of children and youth in their communities. Through quantitative and qualitative means data was gathered.

“Through this project, we found that our members are more physically active and knowledgeable about what foods are healthy for them because of the club,” leaders say.

“They are more excited to try new things and make better choices for themselves because of the club. Members are more confident in their own abilities and feel more comfortable being themselves.”

The club has 43 employees, whom leaders credit for the program’s effectiveness. Eight of these are former club members. The program also benefits from 60 volunteers.

Fundraising is a key-

stone of the program. In 2022 the club hosted Race for Kids and a gala.

“These two annual fundraisers were not only well attended, but they also raised critical dollars for our organization,” leaders say.

The organization is supported by donors, funders and supporters, staff and a board of directors.

“Living the mission, vision and values of BGC

Battlefords, they (the board) also understand the community needs, which is critical to our service delivery. These people are part of the fabric that was us all together …”

At the meeting, longserving member Bernie Etcheverry was celebrated. After serving on the board of directors for more than 30 years, Bernie has concluded his time with the board.

Jane Shury pictured with ACT members Don Christopher, Terry Mitchell, Wayne Lambie and Clayton Cambell as they present the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Battleford with a cheque for $,2500. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

(306) 445-2484

1-800-667-1321

Fax: 306-445-5601

306.445.3414

www.FrontierCentreSK.ca 11412 Railway Ave E North Battleford, SK 306-445-6253

“The simple act of caring is heroic”.

Our Vision

Rosthern, WPD, Lloydminster & District Ambulance are committed to being leaders in emergency medical services and to providing our communities with excellence in pre-hospital care.

Our Mission

As part of maintaining and promoting the highest standards of our profession, we strive to deliver excellence in emergency medical services and advanced life support by following best practice, quality assurance and quality improvement doctrines.

We are a responsible and accountable team that values being committed to promoting health and safety to the people we serve. We display our pride for emergency medical services by delivering professional quality education to both our employees and the community.

Values

Rosthern, WPD, Lloydminster & District Ambulance are committed to these values as the beliefs of the organization. They define our corporate culture and guide our daily behaviors. These values are inherent in everything we say and do. •

Honouring our paramedics

Paramedic Services Week happens every year in May. This year, it takes place from May 21 to 27. It’s a perfect time to thank paramedics, EMTs and the entire EMS workforce for their service and sacrifices on the front lines of the healthcare system. The job of a paramedic isn’t always easy but can be extremely rewarding. Here are four qualities that paramedics must possess.

• Thrive under pressure. Paramedics often work in high-stress, life-or-death situations. Therefore, they must be able to stay calm under pressure to effectively administer treatments and make the best decisions for a patient’s health.

• Communicate effectively. Paramedics must be able to communicate with scared, shocked or stressed patients and their family members to provide life-saving support. Paramedics work in a team and must also be able to effectively communicate with dispatch, nurses and other hospital staff.

• Solve problems quickly. Paramedics must react quickly and efficiently in emergency situations. Therefore, they must possess excellent problem-solving skills to evaluate a patient’s

condition and quickly determine the best way to treat them.

• Demonstrate empathy. Paramedics constantly handle situations in which patients are experiencing pain, trauma or suffering. Consequently, they must be empathetic and address the needs of their patients in a sensitive and caring manner.

This Paramedic Services Week, take the time to show your support for the important work paramedics do.

Growth That Works For Everyone Investing in Post-Secondary Student Success

Our government is providing $112 million in direct support to students through tax credits, grants and scholarships, an increase of $9.0 million from the previous year. The additional funding will address the growing needs of students and graduates in our province through increased student supports and enhanced repayment assistance. Learn more at Saskatchewan.ca

Art Notes

Why limit yourself to one medium?

By John Bowyer Battlefords Art Club

Using a combination of pencil, coloured pencil, compressed charcoal and ink can give you a whole new mood and artistic expression in your work.

Black ink, for instance, when used selectively, can give you tonality to shaded and shadowed areas. Sheen can be a problem, though.

Blending with wax-based coloured pencils by holding the pencil near the end will give you loose mark-making by

using a technique of cross-hatching or using a circular motion on the paper.

Holding the pencil near the “lead” end as typically done, will allow you to make precise and detailed marks on the page.

Charcoal will, ideally, need a textured or “cold-pressed” paper to give you an effective mark on the surface. But using a combination of media and experimenting in combinations can give you a whole new world of artistic freedom of expression and possibilities. Don’t limit yourself.

Jackie K song takes on her relationship with her husband

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Jackie K’s latest single, ‘We Can’t Quit,’ on her debut album, ‘She’s A Story,’ offers a candid look at the ups and downs of relationships.

North Battleford’s own alternative folk artist cowrote the track with her husband, Tom Kroczynski, as they navigated a few challenging years during their relationship.

“We had been smoking cigarettes on and off during the pandemic, and it was time to stop,” Jackie K said.

“The last few years have been hard, so much additional pressure. The song is about making the decision to keep trying to be better

but also to know when it’s time to cut each other some slack. Life can be hard enough.”

With honest lyrics depicting their trials and tribulations, including petty vices and habits, the track showcases a blend of mutual support and frustration found in long-term relationships.

“It’s just a fun country song with more than a little bit of truth-telling!” Jackie K explained. “Oh, and we did quit smoking, but I still eat too many chips, and he’s got a mouth on him.”

Recorded in Saskatoon by producer Randy Woods and mastered at Mojito Mastering in Toronto, the album features Jackie K on vocals, keys, and trum-

pet, with Tom providing bass. Kyle Krysa plays the drums, Connor Newton is on sax, and Woods sprinkles in some magic on guitar.

Released on March 8 to coincide with International Women’s Day, ‘She’s A Story’ tells the tales of women, some personal to Jackie K and others abstractly relevant to the world’s women and the lives they lead.

“The stories belong to women,” she said. “Women’s roles have changed. Things are different now than they have been. It’s harder, it’s more work. If somebody can relate to an aging parent or being queen of their castle, that will make me happy.”

#2 11204 Railway Ave East (306) 445-5700

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

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

Ryan Domotor, MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford domotor.mla@sasktel.net 306-893-2619

Jackie Kroczynski poses for a photo at the Bon Temps Cafe in Saskatoon. | Nicole Romanoff Photography

Using combinations can add a whole new dimension to your work. | Photos submitted

USask student transforms Sask agro-waste into water security solution

By Brooke Kleiboer USask

Securing a safe water supply for Earth’s growing population is a global goal that is reflected in the longterm sustainability plans of almost every nation. Creatively solving this problem is another matter altogether. University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate student Bernd Steiger is using chemistry expertise and Saskatchewan-based waste to soak up contaminants in fresh water reserves.

“This province can be considered the breadbasket of Canada with its large agricultural sector,” said Steiger.

“Agro-waste [such as the inedible part of a plant, for example] is a low-value by-product of agriculture, and turning this waste material into specialty adsorbents can aide in generating additional wealth for the Sask. agro-economy, while also serving to address water security and sustainability goals.”

Steiger’s work uses several principles of what is referred to as ‘green chemistry’ - a type of chemistry that avoids a need for conventional chemical or energy inputs. Dr. Lee Wilson (PhD), professor in the Department of Chem-

istry in the USask College of Arts and Science, has been supervising Steiger’s research as he works to complete his doctoral degree.

“Our question was whether we could use locally available biomass from Saskatchewan such as straw and oat hulls as platform materials to design bioadsorbent materials to address water security issues for Saskatchewan,” said Wilson.

Steiger’s work has focused on using these typically non-consumable agricultural byproducts like wheat straw, coffee grounds and oat hulls as the basis for new adsorbent materials. Adsorbent materials allow a dissolved substance to ‘stick’ to its surface – as opposed to absorbent materials, which allow a substance to permeate it entirely.

The idea is that the resulting adsorbent materials can be placed in aquatic environments that have been contaminated with substances, such as lead, and can draw these contaminants out of the water supply.

In the experiment, the agro-waste base materials were treated and combined with other materials to create new adsorbent products called compos-

ites and were tested in a simulated wastewater environment that contained lead or another type of pollutant. Some of the composites contained higher levels of agro-waste than others, and Steiger notes that the results of the experiment were surprising.

“In general, composites with higher content of agro-waste outperformed those with lower agro-waste content,” said Steiger. “The low energy and materials input for our composite design approach demonstrates the unique uses that agrowaste systems can have for sustainability.”

“Through our green chemistry strategy, we have been able to add value to low-cost biomass to address lead contamination in drinking water,” Wilson added. “The resulting adsorbents show promising potential.”

Steiger’s work in Wilson’s lab has been documented in the academic journals Frontiers in Water and Industrial Crops and Products in published articles in 2022 and 2023.

“Building on the published work, an investigation is underway of the mechanical properties and stresses [on the material] related to transport, storage, and water treatment

USask PhD student Bernd Steiger is investigating how Saskatchewan’s agrowaste can be used to create a cleaner water supply. Photo courtesy USask

applications,” said Steiger. “This will contribute to bringing this technology to industry.”

Further experiments will also test how further physical or chemical modifications to any new adsorbent materials may benefit or hinder their usefulness.

USask is ranked number one in Canada in water resources research, an im-

portant research area that is classified as a signature area of research at the university. This unique research focus drove Steiger to pursue graduate studies at USask under the supervision of Wilson.

“Making an impact with respect to sustainability and an often underappreciated and taken for granted commodity –clean drinking water – is

one of the driving forces for me,” said Steiger. The research has been supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada Discovery Grant program, and the USask Global Institute for Water Security/ Global Water Futures Capacity Building Competition award program.

- Submitted by USask Media Relations

Agro-waste could be the solution to a cleaner water supply in Sask.

Investing $4.1M to build resiliency, trust in ag sector

Staff

The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have announced more than $4.1 million to support Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan and 4-H Saskatchewan over the next five years under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

This investment supports the organizations that tell the story of agriculture in Saskatchewan and build public trust while developing the next generation of agriculture leaders, according to a press release.

Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan connects consumers to food and farming through events, training and educational resources and plays a critical role in building public trust, promoting agriculture and supporting farmers, the release states.

“With less than three per cent of the Canadian population having a direct tie to the farm or ranch, the need to engage with consumers is stronger than ever,” Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan Executive Director Clinton Monchuk said. “Partnerships like these ensure that more Canadians understand how farmers and ranchers are

growing the food we all eat.”

Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan promotes agricultural education, building connections between young people and the agricultural industry, and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders through hands-on activities, engaging programs, and inquiry-based educational resources.

“The future workforce

is in classrooms,” Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan Executive Director Sara Shymko said. “We need the brightest minds to help find solutions for agriculture’s most complex issues. AITC experiences ignite curiosity about food systems and inspire students to become involved in building a stronger agriculture future.”

4-H Saskatchewan is a

youth development organization that aims to provide young people with opportunities to develop leadership, citizenship and life skills through agricultural and other related projects.

“4-H Saskatchewan is very grateful for the continued support we receive from the provincial and federal governments,” 4-H Saskatchewan Executive Director Aubrey Eaton said. “Our organization is

proud of our agricultural roots and we will continue to take an active role in building public trust by developing leaders that will help grow the agriculture sector.”

Sustainable CAP will provide $175,000 to Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, $325,000 to 4-H Saskatchewan and $325,000 to Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan in each of the next five years.

Sask. agri-manufacturers reach 135 per cent growth in five years

SASKTODAY.ca

Amid recent records for international exports, the province’s agricultural manufacturers are generating sustained and significant growth as they create a rising global demand for Saskatchewan-made equipment and technology solutions, according to a Saskatchewan government press release.

While 2022 provincial exports to the United States reached an all-time high of $29.3 billion and total agrifood exports were a record $18.5 billion, shipments by the agricultural implement sector over the past five years have increased

in value by 135 per cent from 2018 ($359 million) to 2023 ($843 million).

From 2021 to 2022 alone, their value increased by 58 per cent. Saskatchewan’s total exports for 2022 were valued at $52.6 billion.

Saskatchewan’s agricultural manufacturing sector - which specializes in short-line manufacturing of equipment for precision dryland farming - is welldispersed between urban and rural centres, with many smaller operations based in communities with populations under 10,000. Many of these manufacturers are participants in major industry events like Canada’s Farm Show in

Regina in June and Ag

In Motion in Langham in July, where the latest agriculture technology is showcased to thousands of producers and international buyers.

“Canada’s agricultural manufacturing sector is ingenious and resilient, and our Saskatchewan manufacturers have proven themselves as export powerhouses with significant contributions to producing the highest quality and most sought-out agricultural equipment in the world,” Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada (AMC) President Donna Boyd said. “AMC members remain focused on moving ahead

to promote productivity, ensuring global competitiveness, increasing export opportunities and continuing to invest in the growth of Saskatchewan.”

Destinations for Saskatchewan agriculture implements are highly varied, with the U.S. and Australia the largest markets followed by countries such as Lithuania, France, Uruguay, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Bulgaria. Products include equipment designed for a wide range of purposes such as zero-till seeding, spraying and fertilizing, livestock and forage, rock removal, and grain handling, storage and transportation.

APAS urges wildlife damage support be province-wide

Staff

The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) supports the recent announcement from the federal and provincial governments introducing support for farm and ranch families still dealing with wildlife damage in the province’s southwest and west-central regions, according to a press release.

Federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister

Marie-Claude Bibeau and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced an additional freight adjustment for farms that experienced wildlife damage to stacked forage.

“This support for farm and ranch families who have already been hit hard by drought is greatly appreciated,” APAS President Ian Boxall said. “The ability to feed livestock with stacked forage is essential, particularly in areas that continue to experience dry conditions.”

While this program is a great start, APAS says it is looking for support to

Producers in southwest and west-central regions are being offered support in dealing with wildlife damage, but APAS wants to see a province-wide relief.

be extended to the entire province.

“Wildlife damage is not just a localized issue,” Boxall noted. “Depending on what part of the province you live in, deer, moose or elk have inflicted havoc on farms, leaving behind ripped grain bags and spoiled grain. And for livestock producers, coyotes and other predatory animals are also a concern.”

APAS representatives have endorsed for Saskatchewan Crop Insur-

ance Corporation (SCIC) to include wildlife damage as an eligible loss for reserved pastureland and a request to the Ministry of Environment to provide special hunting licences for Saskatchewan-based landowners/producers with increased tag allocation in areas with high numbers of wildlife damage compensation claims. Recently, APAS met with officials from the Ministry of Environment to discuss wildlife damage in Saskatchewan.

The clubroot of the problem is in the genes

Staff

Clubroot is a serious, soil-borne disease of brassicas. These cruciferous plants include vegetables such as cabbage, and most importantly for Western Canada: canola. As the name suggests, the disease affects the roots of the plant so that they are clubshaped and unable to properly transport water.

With the spores of the disease able to live dormant in the soil for up to 20 years, the disease is not new to Canada. However, it did rise to prominence in the early 2000s, as canola acreage grew and the pathogen population started to thrive and reproduce. The disease has now spread from its original centre of outbreak near Edmonton, Alberta across the Prairies, where canola is a major crop.

Much like how colds and flus spread in humans, clubroot is highly trans-

missible through contact. It has flourished and spread so rapidly thanks to spread by erosion, infected soil attached to farm equipment and through too frequent canola plantings. Diligent protocols, such as rotating the type of crop planted in a field year over year and disinfecting equipment to stop the spread, have been a producer’s initial line of defense.

On the bright side, the understanding of genetic resistance to diseases is advancing, as one can see from the covid pandemic. And it’s advancing in the field of clubroot too. Dr. Fengqun Yu of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Saskatoon Research and Development Centre is at the forefront of this research.

Dr. Yu started working with AAFC’s clubroot team in 2011 as the expert in clubroot genetics. At that time, there was no canola germplasm (genetic mate-

Full

Above, this canola plant’s root shows a serious clubroot infection. At right, greenhouse-grown canola plant with two introduced clubroot resistance genes shows promise for the future. | Photos courtesy AAFC rial) resistant to clubroot at AAFC. But after more than ten years of hard work by a very dedicated team, her group has performed the most comprehensive genetic studies on clubroot in the world. They have identified more than 20 clubroot resistance genes, from Brassica species that can be used by breeders for developing new cultivars, and published 10 papers on clubroot genetics and have quickly shared these technological advancements with researchers who can apply them to their breeding programs. They are world leaders in this area.

“I am so excited to see that AAFC currently has abundant canola germplasm developed through our research program. There are lots of studies to be done and exciting discoveries ahead. More im-

portantly, I am so glad to see my research can benefit growers of canola, mustards and vegetable production,” says Dr. Fengqun Yu, Biology Study Leader (Plant Pathology), Agriculture and Agri-Food

From 3 to 1,250 gallons per minute

Canada

Something else Dr. Yu is excited about: they developed the first set of canola lines that carry identified individual clubroot resistance genes, which could revolutionize

race differentiation (races are unique populations in which all individuals carry the same combination of virulence genes) for the clubroot pathogen. This is important because it will

Continued on Page 16

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AAFC researcher, Dr. Fengqun Yu, right, and her staff inspect an infected plant at Saskatoon’s research and development centre.

USask study finds bulls’ breeding soundness unaffected by ergot-contaminated feed

at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) as part of her graduate studies. Cowan is now in her final year of the college’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.

Besides Cowan, the research team included WCVM graduate student Moveed Chohan and WCVM professors Drs. Barry Blakley (DVM PhD) and Jaswant Singh (BVSc&/AH).Dr. Muhammad Anzar (DVM, PhD)

By Jessica Colby USask

A study conducted by a team of University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers confirms that bulls can eat feed contaminated with ergot alkaloids — toxic compounds produced by a plant fungus — for multiple weeks without affecting breeding soundness.

“Overall, [there’s] minimal impact from our point of view on the bull breeding soundness side of things,” says Dr. Vanessa

Cowan (PhD), the paper’s lead author. The team’s were published online in the peer-reviewed jounrnal Teriogenology.

Based on the researchers’ results, adult bulls that have been fed ergotcontaminated feed are unlikely to fail a standardized breeding soundness evaluation. As well, results of semen analyses would not help producers determine if bulls had been previously exposed to ergot alkaloids.

Ergot alkaloids are produced by Claviceps pur-

purea, a fungus that infects rye and other cereal grains. Ergot-contaminated grain often makes its way into livestock feed, and when cattle and other animals ingest high levels of ergot alkaloids over time, ergot toxicity can cause blood vessel constriction.

“With changing weather patterns, ergot alkaloids are becoming more prevalent and more routinely detected in grain. Ergot alkaloids continue to be a common problem faced by producers,” says Cowan, who conducted the study

of Agriculture and AgriFood Canada and Dr. John MackInnon (PhD) of the Usask College of Agriculture and Bioresources also contributed to the published research.

The team’s goal was to determine whether high levels of ergot alkaloids — but still meeting Canada’s allowable levels for cattle feed — have any effect on bulls breeding soundness.

In Canada, the current recommended maximum

amount of ergot in cattle feed is between 2,000 and 3,000 parts per billion.

“There’s data out there suggesting that for cattle, the ergot alkaloids negatively impact female reproduction,” says Cowan. “But there aren’t really consistently affected endpoints in males and even less so in terms of Claviceps purpurea, which produces the ergot alkaloids.”

Continued on Page 16

Several of the Angus bulls that took part in the USask study evaluating the impact of ergot-contaminated feed on breeding soundness. | Photo by Vanessa Cowan

Soundness unaffected by ergot-contaminated feed

Continued from Page 15

Other studies based in the United States focus on ergot alkaloids, but Cowan points out that the fungal disease mainly affects fescue grass in the U.S. and is caused by a different fungus than C. purpurea — the most common in Canada.

For the study, researchers worked with two groups of Angus bulls housed at the USask Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence’s Goodale Farm. After undergoing a control period of 12 weeks where both groups of bulls ate the same diet, the two groups then received different feed diets for the following nine weeks.

The first group of eight bulls ate daily rations of grain-based pellets containing 1,100 micrograms per kilogram (mg/kg) of ergot alkaloids, which is considered moderate for ergot contamination. The second group of six bulls received daily rations of pellets containing 2,200 mg/kg of ergot alkaloids

— a high level of ergot toxicity.

The team chose the nine-week exposure period based on the 61-day length of a single spermatogenic cycle (the process in which cells mature in the testicular tissues) in bulls.

Researchers followed the bulls for an additional 10 weeks post treatment to see if there were any long-lasting effects on the animals’ sperm production.

“We thought it would be most relevant to look over one spermatogenic cycle to see if [the bulls’] sperm production was actually affected,” says Cowan. “We wanted to see if there’s an effect and if there is a dose-dependent change on any of their fertility parameters.”

Throughout the study, the research team collected blood and semen samples and rectal temperatures from the bulls, along with data about body weight and scrotal circumference. The researchers analyzed bulls’ sperm samples for multiple characteristics as

well as the animals’ blood and plasma.

They found that bulls in the “high ergot level” feed group showed minimal effects based on the study’s key endpoints. The ergot-contaminated diet didn’t cause the animals to produce more dead or less viable sperm. While the ergot alkaloids may have affected forward motility of the bulls’ sperm, the team reported that the animals’ overall sperm morphology and development remained normal.

Based on a previous U.S. study, the USask team had hypothesized that blood flow in the testicular artery would be potentially affected by the ergot alkaloids.

“We thought maybe that energy production in the sperm would be affected because those things need oxygen. And with reduced blood flow to an area, you also have reduced oxygen. We didn’t see that,” says Cowan.

“However, we did find that there was decreased

plasma prolactin in both of our treatment groups. We found that interesting because prolactin has somewhat been cited as a biomarker of ergot alkaloid exposure.”

In earlier studies conducted by the USask research team, Cowan says

they found no difference in the animals’ plasma prolactin measurements.

The bulls’ plasma prolactin levels had returned to normal about two weeks after the animals stopped eating ergot-contaminated feed.

At current Canadian levels, ergot alkaloids are not

expected to interfere with bulls’ breeding soundness. The USask research project received funding from Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

Clubroot of the problem

Continued from Page 14 provide crop breeders and growers with information they can use when developing or growing cultivars with increased clubroot resistance.

With a dedicated team and continual improvement in the science of genes, Dr. Yu and her team look forward to getting to the genetic root of clubroot.

Key Discoveries/ Benefits

• Led by Dr. Fengqun Yu, a team of Saskatoonbased scientists recently developed a new mapping by sequencing method and a pipeline for identification

of genes, which has greatly accelerated the development of genetic resources.

• The team has performed the most comprehensive genetic studies on clubroot in the world by identifying more than 20 clubroot resistance genes and markers, including the first gene in black mustard and the first major gene in Brassica oleracea (species that includes cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts and other leafy green vegetables) for resistance to clubroot.

• They have also developed molecular markers linked to each of these

genes for use in molecular breeding and developed canola and mustard germplasms for resistance to clubroot that can be used by breeders.

• They developed canola breeding lines highly resistant to almost all clubroot races identified in Canada.

• They discovered two genes in complementary action could exhibit broadspectrum resistance to Canadian clubroot pathogens; therefore, they recommend that judicious use of two genes in canola cultivars could possibly be effective against the disease.

Sask Wheat Invests $1.6M in eight AgriARM sites

Submitted

Sask Wheat

Sask Wheat has approved $1.6 million in funding over two years for the eight Saskatchewan AgriARM sites. Each site will receive $200,000 which is going towards extension capacity, purchasing new equipment and furthering agronomic research which can increase

wheat and whole-farm profitability.

AgriARM is a network of producer-directed applied research and demonstration organizations located across Saskatchewan. Each site operates individually and collaborates on a broad range of projects to generate results relevant to growers over a wide area. AgriARM sites are supported

by core funding from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture and receive the majority of funds through project-based funding from governments, commodity groups and private industry.

“The AgriARM research sites have conducted important research for Saskatchewan farmers over the last few years, from testing the effects

of post-anthesis UAN on wheat protein to evaluation of row spacing and seeding density on the crop development and yield,” said Sask Wheat Chair Brett Halstead.

“The research and extension activities performed at the AgriARM sites have been valuable to Saskatchewan’s crop producers, leading to the adoption of state-of-the-

art technologies and techniques,” said Constance Chiremba, Sask Wheat Research program manager.

“This investment in the equipment and capacity of the research stations is an investment in the future of Saskatchewan’s wheat producers, as we will allow AgriARM researchers to continue their excellent work and communicate their results

across the province.”

Sites are: Indian Head Agri Research Foundation; Conservation Learning Centre; East Central Research Foundation; Irrigation Crop Diversification Corporation; Northeast Ag Research Foundation; Southeast Research Farm; Wheatland Conservation Area Inc.; and Western Applied Research Corp.

Researchers publish paper on Indian Act flaws

Submitted

Macdonald-Laurier Institute

Canada’s Indian Act has asserted control over the lives of First Nations peoples since 1876. The Act has subjected those living under it to government encroachment on basic rights and privileges, gender discrimination, cultural suppression, and mandatory attendance at Canada’s Indian residential or day schools. It even requires ministerial approval for routine processes, such

as the transfer of land between band members.

For decades, it was the intention of both First Nations and the federal government to improve upon the Indian Act and to facilitate sectoral self-governance.

In this new paper, Beyond the Indian Act: Lessons learned from independent land management by First Nations, Ken Coates and Britt Baumann examine the ongoing process of delivering control of reserve lands into the hands

of First Nations, with a particular focus on assessing the successes and failures of two key pieces of legislation.

In 1999, Canada passed the First Nations Land Management Act (FNLMA), designed to allow First Nations to opt out of the Indian Act’s centralized and cumbersome land management regime. FNLMA achieved only moderate success in reaching the policy goals of individual First Nations and of Canada’s federal government.

North Battleford girl sings on stage with Shania Twain

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Alesha Oborowsky’s daughter, Adalynn, has been dreaming of singing on stage with Shania Twain for months. And on May 12, that five-year-old girl’s dream came true at the sold-out Saskatoon show.

“She (Adalynn) was like, ‘Mommy, I want to sing with that lady one day,” Oborowsky said, noting that her daughter loved Twain’s music and talked about her dream of singing with the performer for months.

But because of the ticket prices, she wasn’t even sure if she was going to take her daughter.

“I actually didn’t buy any tickets until a week before,” Oborowsky said, hoping that the price would go down before finally deciding it would serve as both a Mother’s Day weekend and an early birthday present for her daughter.

But when they arrived, security wasn’t going to let her daughter in due to the size of her sign marked with the words, ‘my first concert.’

“...she actually had tears in her eyes,” Oborowsky said, managing to convince security to let them enter with the sign.

“I honestly didn’t know if she (Shania Twain) was going to call anyone on

Five-year-old Adalynn Oborowsky on stage with Shania Twain. | Photo submitted stage,” saying that she told her daughter to hold up the sign when the musician came close to their side of the stage.

“The show must have been 75 per cent (done) and so she comes over to our side of the stage, and she’s like, ‘you know I love seeing the little crowd come out ... and there are these two beautiful children, giving it their all, and bopping along, and singing,” and she pointed at another girl and Adalynn.

It was ultimately repealed and replaced by the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management Act in December of 2022.

“As First Nations and the government of Canada continue to work toward replacing the restrictive constraints of the Indian Act, much can be learned from the example of the FNLMA. Its success was that it sought to solve the problems inherent in the Indian Act while at the same time preserving First Nations and treaty rights,” write the authors.

“At a bare minimum, any new policy proposals meant to improve upon the Indian Act must reconfirm the understanding that Indigenous rights to their reserve lands is inviolable.”

Coates and Baumann’s

paper serves as a compendium of the complex and broad ranging opinions on the best path forward for Indigenous land management and concludes that:

“Innovations to the status quo must provide more than the downloading of administrative duties from the federal government. They must provide real rewards in terms of community well-being and Indigenous autonomy.”

This paper will serve as an invaluable resource for Canadian policy-makers and anyone sincerely seeking to redress the failures

of Canada’s Indian Act.

To learn more, read the full paper at macdonaldlaurier.ca.

Ken Coates is a Distinguished Fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, and the Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation at the University of Saskatchewan.

Britt Baumann is a post-doctoral researcher working on Indigenous involvement with the mining sector at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan.

“I think Adalynn was kinda a little bit in shock,” Oborowsky said as security took her daughter on stage to sing and get her pictures taken with the country singer.

After the concert, Oborowsky said that her daughter was noticed several times leaving the building and on the sidewalk outside of the SaskTel Centre.

“She (still) gets excited ... she still wants to listen to her music every single day in the car.”

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make the democratic process possible.

OBITUARIES

GAMBLE: It is with heavy hearts the family of John (Jonny) C Gamble announce his passing on May 10, 2023 at the age of 76 years. John was a kind, funny, loving, hardworking man and in his family and friends will miss him dearly. John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Grace (Johnson) Gamble and his children Neil Gamble and Michelle Chickeness (Mark Kennedy). His Grandkids Jonden (Justine), Riley and Lindsey (Jon). His great grandchildren Hadley, Edwin and Jack Chickeness. John’s Siblings Keith (Linda) Gamble. Genevieve (Russell)Works, and Richard Gamble. John’s sister - in -laws Christine (Gary) Schwan, Joanne Johnson. as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his infant granddaughter Aimie Chickeness. His parents Wendell and Ellen Gamble. His siblings Baby Brother Wendell, Gordon (Myrna), David (Patty), Sister-in-law Lillian Gamble, niece Lorraine Gamble. Grace’s parents Fredolph and Helen Johnson, and sister-in-law Rita Johnson. John will be fondly remembered as the strong, silent, hardworking man by countless friends and extended family. Over his 50 plus years he worked as a mason and alongside many contractors in the surrounding area. Many of those contractors were longtime friends of John’s. John was a member of the BPO ELKS and volunteered at many different functions with the Elks in the community.. A memorial service will be held on May 26th at 2PM at the Western Development Museum in North Battleford. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sallows & McDonald Wilson & Zehner Funeral Home. They will have a live stream option available on their Facebook page. In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Canadian Cancer society or a charity of your choice.

ALBERS: Bernard Andrew Albers, more affectionately known as Bernie, passed away on Tuesday May 9th at his acreage just outside of the town of Battleford. He was 70 years old. He is survived by his wife Denise, children: Christine (Jeff) Tkachuk, Pamela (Jesse) Watson and Andrew Albers, his 6 grandchildren: Alex, Matthew and Mikayla Tkachuk; Ethan, Brayden, and Liam Watson. His brother, Donnie Albers (Debbie); sisters: Sherry Enns and Deb (Lance) Petersen and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents: Andrew & Ellen Albers; his in-laws: Elie & Doris Albers; brothers-in-law: Howard Enns and Greg Filion; sister-in-law, Theresa Albers; along with aunts, uncles & cousins. Bernie had been a fixture in the town of North Battleford since 1974 when he began working for the city as the recreation director. He worked for the city for 33 years, eventually being promoted to parks and recreation director in 1989, a position he would remain in until his retirement in 2007. Bernie was an avid basketball and baseball player. He played baseball for the North Battleford Beavers for a number of years. Once his playing days were over, he dove into a coaching career that lasted over a decade and was involved in bringing numerous provincial tournaments to the Battlefords. His hobbies included fishing, reading mystery novels and watching whatever baseball game he could find on TV. As a family man, Bernie was a loving husband and great father. A man of action over words, Bernie was incredibly dependable and always willing to lend a helping hand to those who needed it. He was a tremendous role model for all those around him with his work ethic, reliableness and perseverance to overcome any challenge he may face. He has had a lasting impact on the Battlefords and will be greatly missed both by his family, and the community. We would like to thank everyone for attending the funeral and for the numerous sympathy cards, food and flowers we have received. For those who were unable to attend and would like to view the funeral service you can do so at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca. Memorial donations in memory of Bernie can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation - 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, Manitoba R3P 2T5. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service – Vanessa Macnab Funeral Director.

PARKINSON: Curtis Parkinson passed away suddenly on May 3rd 2023. Left to cherish Curtis’s memory is his wife, Michelle, children: Elisha, Matthew, Morgan & Christy; siblings and theirfamilies: Kelly (Heather) –Kyle (Sarah), Sheldon – Katrina and Jacinda, Charlene (Kevin) – Caiden and Chaysen: father and mother-inlaw, Dale & Shirley Whittles; brothers-inlaw, Russel Whittles, Adam (Tracey) Whittles, Daniel (Jennifer) Whittles – Angel and Michelle. Curtis was born on April 22, 1971 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan to Arthur and Doreen Parkinson. He grew up on the family farm in the Baljennie community. He loved playing in the sand pile with his trucks, cars, and farm equipment. He got his first dirt bike when he was 5 or 6 and fell in love with the sport. He would go on to have bikes throughout his life and would often go on long treks by himself or with his friends. Watching and participating in sports was an important part of his life. He played in several hockey leagues, played on the high school’s Viking’s football team as well as being an avid Saskatchewan Rough Rider fan. Curtis graduated from the North Battleford Comprehensive High school in 1990 and then went to Red Deer College for his electrician certificate. He worked as an apprentice at Humboldt Electric and completed his journeyman’s certificate. This opened a few doors for him to work with local contractors as well as helping friends and family with all their electrical needs. After completing his certificate, he planned to return to the family farm to work with his dad.†In 1996, his dad, Arthur, passed away and Curtis took over the farm and successfully grew it right up until his passing. On July 4th, 1998, he married the love of his life. Michelle and Curtis moved into the house that he grew up in and began to raise their own family. They were blessed with four children, Elisha, Matthew, Morgan and Christy. Curtis was the most wonderful dad. He would include his children in everything that he did whether it was work or play. Curtis was a great friend to everyone. He was always there for anyone in need. He was more than willing to give up his time to help those who needed advice, an extra hand, or just someone to be present to laugh, cry, or tell stories with. Curtis’s love and trust in God was shared by his family and was of upmost important in his life. He knew that the next step in his life was his eternal home. His strong faith was shared with many, and his hope was that everyone would understand the importance of having Jesus in their life.

Card of Thanks

Thank you especially to our family at Territorial Drive Alliance Church, friends, neighbors and family for all their support, prayers, and provision during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Ranger Lake Bible Camp or STARS Air Ambulance.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS

nominations for celebrating seniors Provincial volutneer awards

A Celebration of life

Gala on Sunday October 1, 2023

Conexus Arts Centre, Regina

You can nominate a deserving senior volunteer who contributes to Your communitY!

Nominees must be:

- 55+

- Reside in Sask

- Be a volunteer in your community

Go to SSM website for more information: www.skseniors mechanism.ca OR email ssm@skseniors mechanism.ca OR phone 306-359-9956

Deadline for nominations is June 1, 2023

will be held for

BIRTHDAYS

FOR SALE - MISC

Advertisements and statements

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

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

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

John deer 8970 tractor PTO big rubber - asking $75,000. Degelman rock picker hydraulic dry rail - asking $6,500. Contact Victor Hult 306-893-7600.

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

AMGITS Community Involvement Association will be holding their Annual General Meeting on

Monday, May 29th, 2023 • 1:30PM at Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford.

Phone Mike Hildebrand at 306-440-4100 for information.

Notice of Annual General Meeting for

Tuesday, June 20, 2023, 7:00 p.m.at the Pfeifer Learning Centre 801 – 105th Street North Battleford, SK Applications for new membership must in by and renewal of Memberships must be paid by 3:00 p.m. June 13, 2023.

Annual General Meeting

Thursday, June 22nd, 2023 11:45 a.m. Contact Cheri at (306) 445-6960 for more information

FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

HOUSES FOR SALE

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

LAND FOR SALE

FARMLAND WANTED

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

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

Doug Rue, for further information

306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca

www.sellyourfarm land.com

SERVICES FOR HIRE

Will do rototilling at reasonable rates. Call 441-7579

FEED & SEED

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

CERTIFIED SEED

Wheat AAC Goodwin, Go EArly, PintAil Oats AC JuniPEr, AC MorGAn, AC MustAnG, dErby, CdC so1 suPEr oAt Barley Ab stAndswEll, CErvEzA, CdC AustEnson CdC MAvEriCk, sundrE Peas vEry EArly yEllow ForAGE PEAs, Polish CAnolA, sPrinG tritiCAlE mastinseeds.com

403-556-2609

FEED & SEED

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

FEED & SEED

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

NOTICES / NOMINATIONS

306-445-7261

Public Notice of Zoning Bylaw Amendment

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Meeting Lake No. 466 intends to consider the adoption of a bylaw to amend the Zoning Bylaw No. 07/14 under the Planning and Development Act, 2007.

INTENT OF ZONING BYLAW AMENDMENT:

The proposed amendment will provide an alternative with regards to development officer, changes to development not requiring a permit, increasing the maximum site area for discretionary non-farm residential and adding temporary living accommodations while having a valid development permit and building permit.

AFFECT LANDS:

The affected lands of these amendments are all lands lying within the jurisdiction of the RM of Meeting Lake No. 466.

REASON:

The reason for the Zoning Bylaw amendment is to update the zoning bylaw for clarity and changes to better the zoning bylaw.

PUBLIC INSPECTION:

Any person may inspect the proposed bylaw to amend the Zoning Bylaw during regular office hours at the RM of Meeting Lake No. 466 municipal office. Copies are available at cost. The RM office is located on 1 Main Street, Mayfair, Saskatchewan.

PUBLIC HEARING:

The Public Hearing shall be held on June 8, 2023 from 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the RM of Meeting Lake No. 466 municipal office to hear any person that wants to comment on the proposed Zoning Bylaw amendments. Council will also consider written comments received by the undersigned by June 8, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

Issued at the RM of Meeting Lake No. 466 this 18th day of May, 2023. Janelle

Lavallee, Administrator

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

INTENT:

The proposed Zoning Bylaw Map amendment will:

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

AFFECTED LAND:

The affected land is legally described as:

Block A Plan 101193217 located in the NW-08-47-21 W3M; and, Block A Plan 101591614 located in the SW-17-47-21 W3M

REASON:

• To accommodate commercial development within the Rural Municipality.

PUBLIC INSPECTION:

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

PUBLIC HEARING:

Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday June 14th, at 10:00 am at 205 1st Street East in the Village of Paynton to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. Issued at the RM of Paynton No. 470 this 25th day of May, 2023.

Michelle Buechler, Administrator

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society

Hi I’m Fiona! Hi I’m Wiley!

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

REQUIRED

IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food handling ticket.

R.M. OF REDBERRY NO. 435

Temporary Part-Time Assistant Administrator

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

battlefordshumanesociety.com

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

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST VILLAGE OF GLASLYN

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 July 27, 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.

The Rural Municipality of Redberry No. 435 is accepting applications for a Temporary Part Time Assistant Administrator to cover a maternity leave position. Applicants should possess excellent communication, public relations, and time management skills and be able to work under the Administrator’s Supervision. Experience with Munisoft software or previous computer/bookkeeping experience would be an asset. The office is located at Hafford, Saskatchewan. The R.M. offers a competitive wage and provides the SARM benefits package. The salary range is dependent upon experience and qualifications of the successful applicant.

* Penalty is calculated to the date of the Notice and will continue to accrue as applicable.

Dated this 23rd day of May, 2023

Kate Clarke, Administrator

TAX ENFORCEMENT AUCTIONS

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Join The Auction Action Team

Upcoming Sales:

June 17th - Alma & Kevin Latus Farm Sale- Spiritwood

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

Terms of payment; Interact Debit, Cash, or Cheque with ID. Boechler-Schira

Auctioneering does not charge buyers fee on items sold at our sales

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

www.boechlerschiraauction.com

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS & LABOURERS WANTED

For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc.

Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d.

Send resume and work references to:

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

Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

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

rm435@sasktel.net

Box 160

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FISHER’S DRUG STORE

Fisher's Drug Store is a large independently owned pharmacy operating under the Pharmachoice banner. We offer a friendly work environment and have very attractive store hours. We are open from 9am to 6pm during the week and closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Pharmacists

We are looking for staff pharmacists to join our team to provide a high level of personal, professional service to our customers. We provide a wide range to services to our clients, including compliance packaging, ostomy products, athletic and injury bracing and many more. Duties will include filling and counselling on the safe use of prescription medications, counselling on the safe and effective use of OTC medications, minor aliments prescribing, medication assessments and other duties related to the pharmacy area.

We offer a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, RRSP plan, and a friendly work environment with a fairly flexible work schedule. There are many opportunities to develop your leadership skills, expand your scope of practice and advance your careeer.

Pharmacist Assistant

• Are you looking for a new Career with advancement opportunities?

• Are you detail minded?

• Do you like to meet new people?

• Do you like to to help people?

• How about working in a friendly work environment?

• No experience is necessary. We provide all the training for you in your new role as Pharmacist Assistant.

• We offer a great wage and benefits package, RRSP plan plus a fairly flexible work schedule.

For further information, for both opportunities, please contact Darren Erbach at 306-445-6153 or send resume to fishersdrugstore@sasktel.net

SPONSORED BY CHERRY INSURANCE & REGIONAL NEWS-OPTIMIST

Mayfair and District News

‘Dancin’ in Denholm’ offers good old entertainment

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Everyone is chatting about the hazy skies, the eerie-looking sun, the poor air quality and burning eyes when outdoors.

Some days are better than others as people love to be outdoors after the brutally cold winter. The ordinary COVID masks don’t even help as experts suggest a more durable one which is costly!

Summer Student JOB OPPORTUNITY

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

All candidates must possess the following:

• A valid Saskatchewan Class 5 driver’s license

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

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

• Exercise initiative and good judgment when completing work assignments

• Proven customer service skills

• Be dependable and reliable

Submit resumé to Administrator by June 8th, 2023

By Mail, Fax, Email, Box 9, Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0 Fax: (306)-824-2150 rm467@sasktel.net

Five weeks ago, Russell Works (formerly of Ruddell) celebrated his 90th birthday in their newly rented place in Lashburn. They could not invite an abundance of people because of limited space.

Daughter Margaret from Newfoundland stayed a few weeks and hadn’t seen her parents in a long time. Their other children Allan from near Rocky Mountain House, Alta. and Joyce living nearby them in Waseca and families enjoyed much laughter and visiting. At his age, retired farmer Russell still operates a combine and says that’s what keeps him young.

Seventy-seven-year-old Jean Moore near Scentgrass district passed away due to failing health. Jean was a member of the longtime Whitkow Ukrainian women’s church group who organized many suppers in the Orthodox Whitkow Hall. Condolences to her two sons and two daughters. Her deceased husband, Clifford, Jean and children participated in The Bucks Only Club which was wellknown back in the 1970s and continued for a couple of decades.

Mayfair’s craft and plant sale, hosted by Mayfair Creative Corner Organization, is this Saturday from 9:30 to 2 p.m. in the

RM of Round Hill No. 467 Full Time Grader Operator

Qualifications:

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

Duties:

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

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

- Blade all roads in a professional and safe manner.

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Diagnose / identify defects in heavy duty equipment.

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

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

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

- Other duties as assigned by council and administrator

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

- Looking with someone to take leadership.

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

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

rm467@sasktel.net or mailed to:

RM of Round Hill No. 467

Box 9

Rabbit Lake, SK S0M 2L0

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

hall. A large variety of bedding plants, hanging baskets and perennials that are hardy to our zone will be for sale, as will homebaked bread, buns, cakes, cookies and other goodies. Hand-crafted articles, knick-knacks, paintings and other goods make great gifts. Come chat with your friends over a cup of coffee or have lunch served from the kitchen.

“Dancin’ in Denholm” is the advertisement for Harry Startup in Denholm’s Recreation Hall Saturday, May 27. The dance starts at 7 p.m. and goes until 11 p.m. with lunch being served. Tickets are $15. The next dance is to be on June 24 with Leon Ochs band. Good times again are happening in order to keep small communities together without having to drive a distance to larger centres for “good old fashioned” entertainment. For many farmers the seeding of 2023 crops will have been completed so come for an evening of socializing and dancing. Everyone is welcome.

A big occasion is to be happening in the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Ascension of our Lord in Whitkow Saturday, June 10 at 10:30 a.m. The

Ukrainian word for this is “Praznyk.” The divine liturgy is to be officiated by Father Ivan Nahachewsky. There is to be a potluck meal and then visiting Glass Lake, Demyon and Kindrachuk cemeteries. For more information please call Raymond Ewanchuk at 306 981-2658. Spread the word around to former residents who like to attend church service and visit old friends in a rural setting. Remember this is scheduled on a Saturday not Sunday.

Every flowering plant and shrub is at least three weeks to a month early, brought in by the extra warm weather. I’m sure by this past long May weekend most people have planted the gardens and the yards are looking “spanky.” Stores have the cutest lawn ornaments. They range from functional to absolutely “non-functional.” Usually, the latter is the most expensive. Enjoy the great outdoors everyone but please, Mother Nature, turn on those water taps. We are “begging” for rain.

Hazy forest fire smoke drifting through Chitek Lake last week when Environment Canada informed people to stay indoors. The seagulls didn’t seem to mind.

Notice the face on the trunk of this old birch tree? It has many old branches that have been trimmed off along with healthy new ones growing and nicely leafing out. | Photos by Elaine Woloshyn

A highway well used by logging trucks and residents of Chitek Lake, Pelican Lake First Nation and tourists coming here to ice fish and go snowmobiling on the groomed forest trails. Come spring thaw most of the highway isn’t in good driving condition. but people have no choice. Construction is back in the groove to smooth out the situation.

A final submission to the News-Optimist

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

My last insert into the News-Optimist is to say goodbye to all the folks who have helped me with or enjoyed my column, over the years. All good things come to an end, they say, and this is just one more ending. It has been good having more family around than usual, lately, and I appreciate every minute of their time, often away from their own family.

Canasta was played at the Do Drop In on Friday afternoon, May 12, with top score going to Linda Ard and Dave Ottas. In second were Eric Callbeck and Svend Christiansen,

followed by Gwen Lacerte and Jack Stewart. May 19 the top score went to Albert Huys and Karn Kelly followed by Stella Rendle and Dave Ottas. Third were Jack Stewart and Vern Iverson. It’s good to be playing same time, same day and same place again, throughout the summer.

Many folks are enjoying summer company as the RVs hit the roads and summer company is welcomed.

The folks at the Edam Manor are starting to plant their raised gardens, produce that will be used throughout the summer as each veggie matures and comes into season.

There are so many advan-

tages to living here at the manor —meals are homecooked and so tasty, The company is always good. There is always someone to play cards with or share a puzzle with, someone to share your time and thoughts with or go for a walk with. Their program includes music at various times — sing-a-longs with the piano and guitar, various birthday celebrations, any excuse will do. Every second Tuesday there is pie and coffee served at the manor. It is a nice time for visiting and cheering up residents when some folks come over from the care home next door. Mondays are days that the daycare kids come over and spend

time with their grandparents, many don’t have their own, and enjoy sharing

time with those of others.

Grandparents are often lonely folks so this is a

bright spot in their lives to mingle with these youngsters.

Lloydminster man arrested in Gregory Cope’s murder

By Lisa Joy SASKTODAY.ca

As a result of continued investigation by Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes, 34-year-old Travis Jean was arrested in

Lloydminster on May 17 in relation to the death of Gregory Cope.

Travis Jean is charged with first-degree murder and arson – disregard for human life.

Thirty-two-year-

old Gregory Cope’s remains were found by police on Feb. 27 in the debris of a house fire on 27th Street West in Battleford. Cope was reported as missing to Battlefords RCMP on Feb. 21.

and District

MHS honours 23 grads

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

The celebration of life for my cherished friend, Barb Noonan, who passed away on October 28, 2022, was held in Maidstone last Saturday. Barb was best known for her heart of gold, but also as an avid Oilers fan, a Girl Guides honorary lifetime member whose service encompassed 50 years as a leader, commissioner and lastly in the Trefoil Guild, and a longtime participant with Maidstone Quilting Squares. Barb is dearly missed by Dennis, her husband of 56 years, her family and many friends.

Grad 2023 will take place this week on Friday, May 26 at Maidstone Arena with doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the colour ceremony at 8 p.m. Graduating are Xavier Armstrong, Kayden Bolig, Seth Bourbeau, Kyla Brett, Bryelle Crichton, Cole Doud, Ben Dutton, Tyler Harmel, Steele Hult, Logan Jardine, Lizelle Johner, Trinity Lavoie, Emily Maertz, Ruslan Mazurkewich, Rosaria-Leah Fretz, Lucas

Mosimann, Chance Newsted, Jaxsen Rowlands, Rosalee Sawatsky, Alexis Schonhofer, Jasmine Seguin, Chase St. Pierre and Austin Yaceyko. Congratulations and best wishes for a safe, joyful event and a promising future.

Maidstone Disc Golf had a fair turnout for league night considering the cold/windy/smoky conditions. For their first fun night, players were put on teams of four with Texas scramble rules over 18 holes. The prize of two $20 gift certificates for A&S/ Domo was won by Team

1: Jaxsen Rowlands, Ryan Donovan, Troy Donovan and Justin Wiltermuth with a score of -11. Team 2 was a close second at -10 and Team 3 ended at -7. Team 1 decided to use their prize for pizza on the next league night.

On the ball scene, Standard Hill Lakers, looking awesome in their new jerseys, opened the 2023 season with an 8-2 win in Unity May 18. The Lakers want to thank KenDen Ag and Hegel Construction for sponsoring their jerseys. The next game is in

Glaslyn Thursday, May 25.

The U13 team also won in Unity by a 21-6 score May 14. Their next game is in Battleford May 25.

Maidstone Splash Park opened for the summer Thursday, May 18. Hours will be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Children under eight years old must have an adult/guardian/caregiver with them. No bikes, gum or sunflower seeds are allowed. Dogs must be on leashes and you must pick up after your pet. Please make sure your children understand and follow the rules. Take care on the slippery surface and have fun.

Maidstone Museum would like to thank the Grade 12s who helped with painting May 22: Ruslan, Rose, Jaxson and Xavier. Also, a big “thank-you” to Dennis and Teralyn Maertz for donating the use of these grads to the museum, and to Betty Dekker for making the arrangements. We look forward to grads coming to the museum for pictures May 26. A reminder to get your tickets for our fundraiser with prizes of two $500 vouchers from Diamond 7 Meats,

Maidstone High School Class of 2023 on Battlevale Bridge south

of Waseca. | Photo courtesy Kathy Utri

a Yeti cooler with refreshments and a dump wagon with garden accessories. Tickets are $10 and are available from board members, at Synergy, Keranda and co-op or by e-transfer to maidstonemuseum306@ gmail.com (pictures of tickets will be sent to you).

Maidstone Kin Club and Maidstone Legion No. 142 are holding a steak night Saturday, May 27 from 4 to 10 p.m. Cost is $25 per person with proceeds towards setting up new playground equipment by the ball diamonds at Delfrari-Victoria Park.

Tuesday, May 30 Pine Island Lodge has a super fundraiser at Maidstone Health Complex (hospital)

with the co-op cooking up a barbecue from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., Oldies Show and Shine (car show) from 5 to 8 p.m., the Health Care Auxiliary doing a rummage sale and the lodge raffling a variety of prizes including a Father’s Day raffle with a prize of a smoker and meat package.

Maidstone Bowling Club is doing a fundraiser tournament Saturday, June 24. Each team will consist of two people for $20 per person. Start time depends on the number of teams. Prizes will be awarded for high score, low score, hidden score and oldest player. The deadline to register with payment is June 1. There will also be a 50/50

draw ($5 for five tickets) and a 26’er draw for $5 (must be 19 or older). To register, or if you’d like to donate a prize, please call Shannon Whitney 306893-4439 or 306-4908483. It is hoped this will become an annual event.

Other Upcoming Events:

May 28 (Sunday) –

Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H achievement day at Milleton Hall, opening ceremonies at 12:30 p.m.

June 9 to 11 – Standard Hill slo-pitch tourney at Silver Lake Regional Park.

June 18 (Sunday) –Waseca Recreation Board

Father’s Day Brunch at Waseca Memorial Hall at 11 a.m.

VOICE OF BUSINESS

Connecting Voices. Building Business

Phone: 306-445-6226

Find us on Facebook

www.battlefordschamber.com

P.O. Box 1000

North Battleford SK S9A 3E6

Chamber Network Day at the Leg…

By: Linda Machniak, Chief Operating Officer

The Chamber Network of Saskatchewan was invited to attend a Day at the Saskatchewan Legislature on Tuesday, May 16th, 2023. With representative Chambers from across the province, and lead by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, the delegation was able to meet with several ministers, enjoy Question Period, and meet with Premier Moe before finishing their day. Business items of interest were discussed with each Minister, and of course, the items were specific to their ministry or portfolio.

Our day started with a trio of Ministers, including the Hon. Don McMorris Minister of Government Relations, and Minister Responsible for First Nations Metis and Northern Affairs; the Hon. Jim Reiter, Minister of Energy and Resources, and the Hon. Gord Wyant, Minister of Advanced Education. Topics of discussion with this group were about Support for Indigenous business, Education and Training to meet employer needs for staffing, and plans for the province’s energy transition and the role of critical minerals.

Discussions with the Premier and each of the Ministers, while short on time, were in-depth and valuable discussions on key topics and issues of the day. Of course, I took the opportunity to raise the issue of a potential new campus for North West College in the Battlefords.

Our second meeting of the day was with our own MLA, the Hon. Jeremy Cockrill, Minister of Highways. Jeremy was forthcoming about the Memorandum of Understanding recently signed with Manitoba and Alberta to foster development of a trade enabling transportation corridor through the western prairie provinces. He also highlighted the anticipated activity of the ministry this summer in construction season, and questions were given to him about specific bottlenecks or area highways that local Chamber representatives had. Minister Cockrill was thorough in answering all of the questions, and even offered to attend at least two locations over the course of the summer to view for himself the challenges being raised. Thank you Jeremy for that commitment and follow-up.

After lunch the group was able to attend and were announced guests in the gallery during Question Period in the legislative assembly.

Our final meeting of the day included the senior Ministers, the Hon. Donna Harpauer, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, and the Hon. Jeremy Harrison, Minister of Trade and Export Development, Minister of Immigration & Career Training. As this key meeting was progressing, the Hon. Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan, joined in the discussions. We were privileged to have them all stay overtime for our discussions.

Topics covered while we met with this group included the PST & the Small Business Tax, Labour Shortage & Re-skilling/Up-skilling as well as Immigration. Upon the Premier’s arrival, discussions moved into the announcement of yesterday - Outlining Plans For Affordable, Reliable Power Production going forward, we discussed trends in the province, and the network had the opportunity to ask questions. Lloydminster Chamber in particular highlighted the new pilot project underway in that City, with Saskatchewan, Alberta and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Prior to this project, a sandwich made on the Alberta side of the border at, say a Coop Grocery store, could not be packaged and sold at the Co-op Gas Station and Convenience store on the Saskatchewan side of the border. Cross border trade barriers at their very worst. So, great progress being made on practical issues in the border city.

While I’ve shared mostly the technical items for the day, I want to share with you how important it is for the businesses and communities represented by the Chamber network yesterday. We all had an opportunity to see, question and hear directly from 7 Ministers, and saw many other MLA’s in the hallways of the legislature. I was able to raise questions about Highway 4, electric vehicles and weight on the roads, the potential of a new college Campus location in the Battlefords, labour issues for local businesses and more. Then I heard of the concerns for many others in the province. You cannot get this kind of advocacy and discussion without being in the hub of the political activity in the province – the legislature. It was a very good day, and one that businesses in the region can benefit from. The Chamber network is planning to host this as an annual event, though ministers and issues may change, but I know the Battlefords & District Chamber of Commerce would want to be represented and in attendance again.

Businesses join the Chamber of Commerce for many reasons, but they all believe in the business community of the Battlefords. This group of new Chamber members are a broad representation across sectors, some are new businesses while others have had a change in ownership, and yet others join to offer/share the #1 employee benefits plan in Canada with their staff and families.

NEW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS: Local Members:

◆ Feist Flanagan Law Prof. Corp. • 1381A – 101st Street, North Battleford • 306-445-7772

◆ K.A.C. Enterprises Ltd. • 491 – 114th Street, North Battleford • 306-481-3208

Calendar of Events:

Chamber on Tap:

Thursday, June 1st, 2023

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Discovery Co-op Café

Territorial Place Mall, North Battleford

Guest: Jaimie Malmgren, Senior Account Executive Ministry of Immigration & Career Training Government of Saskatchewan

Topic: Workforce Landscape - What Lies Ahead Next Chamber on Tap is scheduled For September 14th, 2023

Sponsored By:

9th Chamber Business Golf Challenge

Congratulations! to the 2022-2023 Battlefords North Stars Hockey Club on such a successful season.

Great job Coach Klimosko on being named Coach of the Year in Canada, and for all of the individual player accolades each member so greatly deserved. Great Community Ambassadors!