Regional News-Optimist November 24, 2022

North Battleford draft budget calls for hikes across the board

Less in, more out means higher taxes

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

North Battleford resi dents are looking at a big ger tax bill in 2023.

City administration in North Battleford is pro posing a number of tax in creases impacting opera tions, utilities and UPAR, according to the 2023 draft budget released on Monday.

According to the bud get document presented for the first night delib erations on Tuesday night, administration is propos ing an operating ask of 6.57 per cent, as well as a one per cent tax increase to be devoted to capital.

The reasons behind the proposed increase, according to administra tion, is uncertainty with the recovery from the pandemic, as well as ris ing police costs.

“A significant amount of money from last year was delayed and now must be accounted for in the budget,” said Brent Nadon, the city’s director of finance.

This amounts to $354,500 in RCMP costs, a 2.56 per cent increase.

Another issue in 2023, said Nadon, was a dip in Municipal Revenue Shar ing. This is due to a dip in the overall revenue shar ing pool, as well as the de crease in the city’s popu lation in the latest census. That amounts to 1.15 per cent.

Wages and benefits also are up 2.81 per cent, and waste management costs related to the Loraas contract are going up 6.8 per cent.

But the city’s biggest challenge is the “infla tionary fiscal environ ment,” said Nadon. He said it was a situation not faced in 30 years.

“Many people alive to day don’t even understand or have never faced a situ ation of mortgages of 18 and 19 per cent,” said Na don. “We’re not there and I sure as heck hope we’re not getting there, but in flation is a big impact on us. Right now it’s running at over six per cent in gen eral, and there’s no signif icant reduction expected in the short term.”

He pointed to efforts to mitigate the increases including increasing their vacancy rate and leas

ing some of their biggest equipment now. They plan to seek more operational efficiencies in 2023.

For utilities, the city is proposing a 4.3 per cent hike for water services and 5.5 per cent for sani tary sewer. Two per cent of the latter hike is related to the sanitary sewer force main project. Again, in flation and wage increase pressures are impacting the hikes.

The city is also look ing to increase the Under ground Pipe and Asphalt Replacement Program levy by five per cent, to be specifically dedicated to sidewalk renewal for $175,000. A minor change to the UPAR bylaw will be required. The UPAR budget 2023 is $3.6 mil lion.

At this point, these are just proposals. There could yet be changes made to the budget increases by council as the public deliberations unfold over the next couple of weeks.

More budget deliberations are scheduled for Nov. 29 and Dec. 1, with start times of 5 p.m. each night at Don Ross Centre.

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Sask. highest for gang homicides

By Ryan Kiedrowski SASKTODAY.ca

According to a report from Statistics Canada that looked at 2021 homicide trends, Saskatchewan has the highest rate of gangrelated deaths across the country — and the high est since comparable data was first recorded in 2005. This statistic takes popu

lation into account where Saskatchewan saw 2.12 gang-related homicides per 100,000 people, but it is a nine per cent increase from the year previous.

National rates of ho micide involving Indig enous victims also remains skewed at six times higher than non-Indigenous peo ple.

Overall, across Canada

there were 788 victims of homicides in 2021, an in crease of three per cent of the previous year.

“Despite these recent increases, homicides re mained relatively rare events, as reported his torically,” noted the re port. “They accounted for less than 0.2 per cent of all police-reported violent crimes in 2021.”

Town of Battleford employees were seen Tuesday removing Remembrance Day banners and putting up Christmas decorations, heralding the beginning of a new season. | Photo by Averil Hall / Freelance Photographer

As Citizens on Patrol grows, so does the need for volunteers

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Citizens on Patrol Pro gram, known as COPP, is partnering with the town of Battleford, the city of North Battleford, BATC and the RCMP to start an awareness campaign for Battleford residents called “9 p.m. Routine,” which will remind residents to be aware of crime in the community.

The 9 p.m. Routine will consist of a checklist that residents should fol low each night before bed and, according to town documents, will include

the following:

• removing valuables from vehicles;

• lock vehicles;

• close garage doors;

• locking windows and house;

• turning on exterior lights.

Councillor David George expressed his admiration, saying that anything the town can do to slow down crime is a great idea.

“I think it’s a good re minder not to let people be opportunistic,” Coun cillor Judy Pruden said.

But, as COPP grows, it also serves as a reminder

to volunteer if you have spare time.

Councillor Pruden re minded Battlefords resi dents at the town’s Nov. 21st council meeting that COPP is in need of more dedicated volunteers.

Councillor Pruden said that COPP is gaining steam and is encouraging more patrols in Battleford, “It’s come up at every meeting.”

COPP is also looking for administrators and volunteers to visit busi nesses during the day.

“I appreciate them making the town a prior ity,” Mayor Leslie said.

This is National Addictions Awareness Week

Submitted

The Government of Saskatchewan has pro claimed Nov. 20 to 26 as National Addictions Awareness Week.

This year the province has invested a record $470 million in mental health and addiction services, including $67 million for prevention, detox, treat ment and harm reduction initiatives.

Some key addiction initiatives include:

• $2.2 million to oper ate Rapid Access to Ad dictions Medicine clin ics in North Battleford, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. These clin ics provide quick access to specialized addiction treatment services, con nect individuals to ser vices, ongoing addiction treatment, mental health services and other com munity programs.

• $2.1 million to sup

port the first year of a three-year commitment for 150 new addictions treatment spaces across Saskatchewan. This is in addition to the 474 ad diction spaces already in place.

• $1.72 million for up to 28 new detox beds and services in targeted com munities across the prov ince.

• $3.8 million in harm reduction supports in cluding annualized fund ing for the operation of community wellness bus es, with the first bus to be launched in summer 2023; expanding access to fen tanyl and benzodiazepine drug checking test strips and Take Home Naloxone kits; and supporting 30 fixed harm reduction sites and five mobile harm re duction vans to provide basic health care, safer supplies and outreach services to at-risk people in their neighborhoods in Saskatoon, Regina, York

ton, North Battleford and most recently in Prince Albert.

• $1 million to support the Drug Task Force, a team of senior officers from government min istries, health agencies, police services in Regina and Saskatoon, RCMP F Division and others who are establishing commu nity projects to address the challenging overdose situation in the province.

For messages of hope and recovery from Sas katchewan residents fac ing addiction and mental health challenges, visit: saskatchewan.ca/mentalhealth-awareness. In ad dition, learn more about available supports and ways to reduce the stigma of addictions and mental health at: saskatchewan. ca/addictions.

To learn more about overdose prevention, visit: saskatchewan.ca/over dose.

Discarded needles a concern for B’ford town council

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Battleford’s town coun cil expressed concerns at their Nov. 21 meeting over the influx of aban doned needles being found around town as they work to solve the unfolding is sue.

Mayor Ames Leslie said that conversations are currently underway with

Prairie Harm Group to decide on options moving forward.

One possibility would see needle depositories placed downtown or in oth er public spaces in Battl eford so that needles could be collected safely, rather than being abandoned in back alleys or playgrounds.

“We’re trying to find a solution … 12 [nee dles] were found at the

RCMP Weekly Report

Cenotaph,” Mayor Leslie said, concerned with its proximity to children and the danger it poses.

“It’s unfortunate … you never know what could happen,” Mayor Leslie said.

The town was quick to express sadness, noting that there is no easy solu tion, but the council hopes that a solution will be found in the near future.

Arrest issued for man wanted in Delmas robbery

Submitted by Battlefords RCMP

Battlefords RCMP re sponded to 463 calls for service from Wednesday, Nov. 16 through Tuesday Nov. 22.

Seven Missing Persons Reported. Two investiga tion remain active.

22 Assault Investiga tions.

• Call to the 1400 block of 103rd Street in North Battleford on Nov. 19 shortly after 1 a.m. re porting a disturbance. Two males were fighting at the location. Bother were tak en into custody. A 31-yearold male was found to have an outstanding warrant for being in violation of a community sentence or der. A 24-year-old male was charged with failing to comply with probation.

• Update to Delmas rob bery from Friday, Nov. 18: Jesse Sokwaypnace (aka Jesse Fox), 18, remains at large. He is wanted for nu merous charges in connec tion to this incident includ ing robbery with a firearm and aggravated assault. If he is seen, do not approach and contact your closest police department or call 911.

Eight Break and Enter Investigations.

• A storage shed at a commercial property on the 1300 block of 100th

Street in North Battleford reported broken into some time on the evening of Nov. 17 to 18. A power generator was reported taken.

• A male was arrested after being located inside a residence on the 800 block of 110th Street in North Battleford shortly after 10 a.m. on Nov. 19. The home was between occupants and subject had forced his way inside. A 47-year-old man was arrested and held for court on charges of break and enter as well as for outstanding warrants for break and enter and failing to appear in court.

• Suspect(s) reported to have broken into a parked vehicle on Riverbend Cres cent in Battleford on eve ning of Nov. 20, and used the garage door opener to enter the victim’s garage. Alcohol and cigarettes were reported taken.

• Break and enter to a garage at a residence on Battle Springs Lane in Bat tleford, sometime in the early morning hours of Nov. 21. A white Toyota Camry with three people inside have been linked as subjects of interest.

Eight Vehicle Thefts.

• A black 2015 Nissan Rogue with Saskatchewan licensce 606MQW was reported stolen from off Highway 16 near Delmas sometime between Nov. 18

and 21.

• Two vehicles were re ported stolen from a resi dence on the Red Pheasant First Nation sometime in the weed prior to Nov. 21: A red 2006 Dodge Ram with Saskatchewan license 809LUX and a black 2020 Ford F150 with Saskatch ewan license 109LZY.

21 Mental Health In vestigations.

Eight Traffic Colli sions.

Two Individuals Charged with Impaired Driving.

58 Various Traffic Charges.

81 Disturbance Calls

Eight Other Reported Thefts

Eight Mischief investi gations.

Anyone with infor mation on any incident is urged to call the Bat tlefords RCMP at 306446-1720 or Saskatchewan

Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477).

Jesse Sokwaypnace (aka Jesse Fox)

Phone:

Commentary CBC is a monster gobbling up tax dollars

By Kris Sims

It’s time to defund the CBC.

While many Canadians were suffering from lockdowns, job losses and pay cuts, the CBC was handing out pay raises and bonuses.

Documents obtained by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation show the CBC spent more than $51 million in bonuses and pay raises during the years 2020 and 2021.

In unrelated news, CBC went cap in hand to the government and came back with a 10-gallon hat full of cash.

The federal fiscal update delivered another “$42 million to help CBC recover from the pandemic,” according to the National Post.

In Budget 2021, the Trudeau government gave the CBC an extra $21 million to “ensure its stability during the pandemic.”

This extra money is on top of the annual funding the corporation already gets from government.

Taxpayers pay about $1.2 billion per year for the CBC.

That amount could instead pay the salaries of more than 13,000 nurses. It could cover the grocery bills for 100,000 families. What we pay for the CBC equals the annual income taxes for the population of Nanaimo.

The CBC’s original mandate in the 1930s was to air Canadian news and entertainment over the radio waves. Comedy and drama shows were broadcast to compete with the popular programming emanating from powerhouses such as CBS Radio in New York.

It also told farmers the weather and aired Hockey Night in Canada.

Times have changed.

Farmers check the satellite images of stormfronts on apps like World Weather Inc. Parents put their kids in snowpants based on what their smartphone recommends. We watch our shows on commercial TV, YouTube and Netflix.

Hockey? That stuff’s like coffee, you can get it anywhere nowadays.

But today, the CBC is a big government monster that’s gobbling up tax dollars like it’s at an all-you-caneat buffet.

The corporation has about 7,500 employees, it deals with 11 different labour unions, and it lists more than 600 personalities on its website. It has a 12-person board of directors, and eight people sitting on its senior executive team.

Catherine Tait is the president and CEO of the CBC. She is paid a salary of between $422,600 and $497,100 per year and is entitled to a performance bonus of up to 28 per cent.

The scuttlebutt in Canada’s newsrooms has long been that for every one journalist working in a regular news outlet, the CBC had about four managers. That reputation was made real when the CBC replaced Peter Mansbridge with four different anchors to desk the National.

How much does that cost? We aren’t allowed to know even though we pay the bills.

The independent news site, CANADALAND, dug up

documents they say show Mansbridge was paid more than $800,000 per year.

Meanwhile, Canadians are tuning out of the CBC.

According to the journalism website, Blacklocks Reporter, which is not funded by the government, the total audience for the CBC’s 6 PM local TV newscasts at 27 stations was 319,000 people. That means less than one per cent of Canadians watch the supper hour newscast.

When the CBC says it is essential because it provides Indigenous languages services, it’s worth double checking the facts.

The CBC spent $18.3 million on its Indigenous language television, radio and online services from April 1, 2018, to March 31, 2021. Over that same period of time, it spent more than $21 million on the salaries and benefits for its eight senior executives.

The CBC has 143 directors. Each of these directors receives an average salary of $130,906, costing the taxpayer $18.7 million per year.

This is not normal.

Private media companies don’t have 143 directors pulling in salaries north of $130,000.

The CBC has outgrown its taxpayer-funded mandate and Canadians can’t afford it.

Kris Sims is the Alberta Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and a former member of the Parliamentary Press Gallery.

Letters welcome

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

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.

Fire Flood and Famine Fund

By R.H. Wood North Battleford

This new three “F” “Climate Justice” fund, designed to compensate countries negatively af fected by climate change is the result of the Cop 27 conference held this year in Egypt. Some 40,000 attendees and some 400 private jets were involved. Canada sent on our behalf 335 delegates while Australia only managed a measly 21. Mr. Guilbeault, our truly wise CN Tower climbing Minister of the Environment, apparently reluctantly agreed to sup port this idea realizing that meaningful contribu tions to the trillions of dol lars required can only be sourced from profligatory depletion of our oil and gas resources. The other

problem is that the worst polluting countries will not contribute, and many others are insolvent but will make unsustainable demands. This of course will leave sanctimonious Canada basking in the glory of being perhaps the main contributor. Thank goodness for inflation-

induced excess profits and windfall taxes. Climbing the pyramids and unfurl ing Greenpeace banners was totally verboten.

Following the recent raucous over the now presumably unoccupied $7,200 per night London hotel room one would have thought economies were indicated. Hard tack, military M.R.E. food packages and camp beds could have been sent to Egypt and also used at the ASEAN meetings. Hard tack biscuits have a shelf life of up to one hundred years. “Meals - ReadyTo-Eat” are still edible five years on. They can be acquired from Amazon and are useful for camping and fishing trips.

In Cambodia Mr. Trudeau most commend ably promoted academic

exchanges and balanced trade. We import $1.78 bil lion worth from Cambodia and send back a mere $38.5 million in car parts and artificial fur. Export ing animal products is unlawful in this country very much to the relief of beavers et al.

For those of us eagerly awaiting an exciting juicy scandal saturated finale to the E.M.A. inquiry, are going to be disappointed. The head of CSIS has clearly indicated in his rather confused opinion that the Emergency Act was required or not. His decision, if you can call it that, seems to have been on balance based on both commercial and political considerations or other wise. What an anti-climax – what a waste of taxpay ers money — but wait a

Holodomor commemorated at the Legislature

By John Cairns SASKTODAY.ca

The Legislative Build ing was the scene Tues day as a special ceremony was held to commemorate those who lost their lives during the Holodomor.

Members of the Ukrainian community along with government leaders were on hand for the service to commemorate an event the Saskatchewan government has recognized as a genocide.

The Holodomor was the great famine that took place in the Ukraine in 1932-33. The event was a man-made famine created by policies of the former Soviet Union, with four million people losing their lives. The word Holodomor is Ukrainian for “extermination by hunger.”

The Saskatchewan Legislature was the first

province to recognize the famine as a genocide on May 7, 2008, followed later that month by the Government of Canada.

The service at the Legislature coincides with Holodomor Memorial Week with a memorial candle to remain lit throughout the week. It was held in advance of International Holodomor day which is this Saturday, Nov. 26.

The ceremonies included the lighting of the candle, a symbolic act in memory of the lives lost. That was followed by the laying of wreaths outside at the “Bitter Memories of Childhood” Holodomor statue to the east of the Legislature.

Government leaders at the ceremony included Premier Scott Moe and MLA Terry Dennis, Legislative

Secretary responsible for Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations, as well as several other MLAs.

The ceremony included addresses from Dennis as well as Elena Krueger, President of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan.

They also heard an address from Anastasiia Vasylieva, who was recently displaced from Bakhmut, Ukraine and now lives in Saskatchewan, through her interpreter Oleg Kovalchuk.

The ceremony was a reminder to people of the Holodomor tragedy of 90 years earlier, but it also came at a time when Ukraine was under siege following the invasion by Russia this year.

In speaking to reporters Vasylieva pointed to the current state of affairs as a reason this day was

important to her.

“Today I feel myself more or less very comfortable,” she said. “It is very important for me to tell what is actually happening over there.”

The ceremony also took place one day before the latest flight of displaced Ukrainians to Saskatch ewan was set to land in Saskatoon.

minute the show isn’t quite over and has yet to reach its carefully stage-man aged and choreographed climax. The stars of this TV non-extravaganza have yet to be judged. The mega star fresh from a

slightly blemished semiworld trip may or may not be acclaimed the ultimate winner. Apparently, it will take his judge-ship two months before he will declare who takes the very first E.M.A. Award.

N. B’ford man arrested in $55M drug bust has court appearance

By Lisa Joy Staff Reporter

A lawyer for a man ar rested in September in a $55 million organized crime drug bust told court Monday that he’s waiting for more disclosure from the federal Crown and asked for an adjournment.

Defence Logan March and appeared by phone and told the North Bat tleford Provincial Court that he needs the additional disclosure before his cli ent, 39-year-old Russel Ens, can enter an election and plea on drug traffick ing charges from a sepa rate drug bust in North Battleford in March.

In September, Ens and Tiajanna Bull, 24, both

from North Battleford, were two of 15 people ar rested in the cross-border organized crime drug in vestigation. The investiga tion resulted in the seizure of firearms, $7 million in property including bank accounts, a $3.5 million home in Niagara-on-theLake, two Lamborghinis, a Porsche, classic cars, $200,000 cash and $55 million in drugs.

Enns was charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and posses sion of property obtained by crime. Bull was charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Ens faces drug traffick ing charges from his Sep tember and March arrests.

Judge

journed his matter to Nov. 28.

The Battleford RCMP Gang Task Force partici pated in the investigation along with RCMP Federal Serious and Organized Crime, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administra tion. The investigation was led by the Alberta Law En forcement Response Team, which is known as ALERT.

Charges stayed against woman arrested in raid

By Lisa Joy Staff Reporter

Jalaina

Daniel O’Hanlon ad

In March, Ens was ar rested after RCMP raided six properties in the North Battleford area. RCMP of ficers from the Gang Unit, Crime Reduction Team, and Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team raid ed the properties on March 18 where they seized 839 grams of cocaine, 37 kilo grams of cannabis, seven firearms [one reported stolen], ammunition, drug trafficking paraphernalia and a large sum of cash.

In the March raid, Ens, along with Matthew Ken nedy, 35, Benjamin Len nie, 32, and Chris Phil lip, 44, were charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of property obtained by crime. Trevor Kennedy, 48, was charged with unauthorized posses sion of a firearm and two counts of unsafe storage of a firearm.

Defence Jonathan Bod varson told the court there is a potential resolution for his client Chris Phillip. Judge O’Hanlon adjourned the matter to Dec. 6.

Defence Kevan Mi gneault appeared in per son for his client Matthew Kennedy and defence Ron Piche appeared by phone for Benjamin Lennie. They elected provincial court tri als for their clients and Judge O’Hanlon adjourned their matters to Nov. 28.

All nine charges have been stayed against a wom an who was arrested after police raided two homes in Lloydminster and an in dustrial building in Wase ca where Trent Angus was shot and killed by RCMP. In February, Laquita Angus, 25, was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of traffick ing, three counts of posses sion of a weapon for a dan gerous purpose, two counts of unlicensed possession of a prohibited weapon, and three counts of failing to comply with an undertak ing. All of the charges were stayed in Lloydminster Provincial Court on Nov. 7. The Battlefords RCMP Gang Task Force say they

began an investigation into drug and weapons traf ficking in west-central Saskatchewan in October 2021. Police say that co caine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and firearms were being trafficked in and around North Battleford. The investigation led to the execution of three search warrants on Feb. 26 – two in Lloydminster and one in Waseca.

When police executed the search warrant at the in dustrial building in Wase ca, east of Lloydminster along Highway 16, gunfire broke out and 33-year-old Trent Angus was shot and killed by police. An RCMP officer received a non-lifethreatening injury during the shootout.

Search warrants were executed in Lloydminster

Alternative measures

and Laquita Angus, 25, and two others were arrested. Review into shooting Saskatoon Police Ser vice have completed their investigation into the RCMP shooting death of Trent Angus.

Trent Angus was shot and killed by RCMP on Feb. 27 in Waseca. The RCMP Act requires that an investigation be con ducted by an external agency when an incident involves a death or seri ous injury so the Saskatch ewan RCMP requested that Saskatoon Police conduct an independent, external investigation into the cir cumstances surrounding the death.

SPS sent their investiga tion to the province on May 10. The province has yet to release SPS’s findings.

Expected for man in alleged racist attack

By Lisa Joy Staff Reporter

A weapons charge against one of the men ar rested in an alleged attack against a First Nations man is expected to be resolved by alternative measures.

Dane Lesmeister, 18, was charged with pos session of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He is back in court on Dec. 19.

If he completes alternative measures as outlined by the court, he won’t have a criminal record.

Adam Lesmeister, 46, is charged with assault. His defence lawyer Randy Kirkham appeared for him in North Battleford Pro vincial Court by phone Monday and asked for an adjournment to Nov. 28. A

tentative sentencing hear ing had been set for Nov. 3 after Kirkham told the court that a plea would “probably” be entered, and adding that a sentencing hearing would be “fairly lengthy.”

The two Lesmeisters were charged following an incident that was captured on a cellphone video by Battlefords lawyer Elea nore Sunchild. She posted the video online that alleg edly showed an Indigenous man being attacked in Bat tleford.

Battlefords RCMP say they got a call about an as sault around 6:50 p.m. on June 17 in the 0-100 block of 17 Street East in Bat tleford. A man was alleg edly approached by three males he didn’t know and

one of the men assaulted him. All three had left the area before officers arrived and the victim, who is from Poundmaker First Nation, was given medical treat ment for non-life-threaten ing injuries.

The video sparked outrage across the prov ince. Sunchild called the attack racist and seemingly an act of vigilante justice. The alleged assault oc curred in her yard in Bat tleford.

In a statement, FSIN said the victim was un hooking a trailer while his six-year-old daughter sat in the vehicle at a home in Battleford when the three non-First Nations men ap proached him on the prop erty.

By Lisa Joy Staff Reporter

A Sweetgrass First Na tion woman was handed a four-year prison sentence on a charge of accessory after the fact to murder in Bradley Ham’s death.

Cassandra Yvonne Mary Fox, 26, was charged with first-degree murder but pleaded guilty Monday to accessory. Ham’s body was found near a grid road about 30 kilometres south east of Glaslyn on Nov. 27, 2020.

Crown Prosecutor Jen nifer Schmidt and defence Brian Pfefferle entered a joint submission to North Battleford Provincial

Court.

Schmidt asked the court for a ban on publication of the details until after Fox’s co-accused Jonathan Swiftwolfe’s trial. Judge Ian Mokuruk granted the ban.

Pfefferle told the court that Fox had a “very trou bled upbringing.” He said that Fox’s mother attended Lebret Residential School, which was “notorious for abuse.”

Pfefferle said Fox had described her mother as being “lost to addiction.” He said that Fox’s father died while she was in cus tody at Pine Grove Correc tional Centre for women in Prince Albert. Pfefferle

told the court Pine Grove is way “over capacity” and Fox fell ill with COVID while incarcerated.

He said that Fox is “a young woman who has a lot to work on” and has sig nificant Gladue factors.

Fox, who appeared from Pine Grove by CCTV, was also sentenced to 270 days, time served, on weapons and breach charges stem ming from another inci dent.

On the accessory charge, Fox was given 518 days credit for time served in pre-trial custody. She was given a 10-year fire arms prohibition and or dered to provide her DNA to the National DNA Data

Bank.

Swiftwolfe headed to trial

Jonathan Swiftwolfe appeared in court from Drumheller Institution by CCTV Monday.

A prelimnary hearing was scheduled to start this week but Swiftwolfe’s law yer Mike Nowlin told the court that defence consent ed to committal to trial at Battleford Court of King’s Bench. Swiftwolfe has pleaded not guilty and will seek to have a jury trial.

Crown Jennifer Schmidt is also prosecuting Swift wolfe’s case. The matter has now gone for pre-trial conference at King’s Bench in December.

Thunderchild woman survives ride with ‘The Truck Stop Killer’

Runaway 17-year-old hitched a ride in 1985.

By Lisa Joy Staff Reporter

A white flat-nose semitruck screeched to a halt on the Trans-Canada High way near the sleepy town of Whitewood east of Re gina to pick up a runaway teen.

Pretty 17-year-old Pa mela Milliken struggled to lift her 75-pound bag onto the seat as she climbed out of the evening’s dark ness and into the cab of the truck.

“He grabbed it like it was nothing with just one arm and put it in the back seat and I looked at him like ‘holy crap man.’

“I sat down and he said ‘my name is Robert,” and I said ‘Well, I’m Pam and I’m heading out to Winni peg” and he said ‘pleased to meet you.’

“Then he took my pic ture,” recalled Milliken of the ride she hitched in the spring of 1985.

She looked at him and asked, “What was that for?”

He replied, “Well if you’re gonna rip me off at least I got a picture I can give to the police.”

The long-haul truck driver had no intention of giving the photo to the police. Instead, Mil liken’s photo was one of his “trophies” that the FBI discovered on the “Truck Stop Killer” Robert Rhoades’ possession when they arrested him. They found Milliken’s photo and a photo of 15-year-old Re gina Kay Walters whose body was found in the loft of a barn in southern Il linois in September 1990. Walters was hitchhiking with her boyfriend Ricky Lee Jones. He was killed before Walters but his body wasn’t found until 1991 in Austin, Texas.

Former FBI agent Mark Young gave Van essa Veselka the photo of an unidentified teenag er that was on serial killer Rhoades’ posession and Veselka included the photo in her 2012 GQ ar ticle about serial killers. In 2019, reporter Holly Moore from APTN Investigates broke the story in Canada that Pamela Milliken was believed to be the uniden tified teen pictured in the photo.

Authorities believe Rhoades raped, tortured, and murdered more than 50 women across the United States between 1975 and 1990. His murder spree was finally stopped in April 1990 when an Ari

zona state trooper arrested Rhoades after he discov ered a terrified woman chained in the back of his semi-truck cab.

“If there is such a thing as an ideal profession for a serial killer, it may well be as a long-haul truck driv er,” said the FBI in 2004 when they announced their Highway Serial Killings initiative to raise aware ness among law enforce ment and the public about highway serial killers.

Since the FBI’s High way Serial Killings Initia tive began, by 2016 ViCAP analysts compiled a list of more than 750 murder vic tims found along or near U.S. highways, as well as nearly 450 potential sus pects. The FBI said the vic tims are primarily women living high-risk, transient lifestyles who wouldn’t be missed if they disappeared and the suspects are pre dominantly long-haul truck drivers. The women are sexually assaulted, mur dered, and dumped along highways.

The road that led Mil liken to a serial killer Warning: Readers may find some details disturb ing Milliken was raised on Thunderchild First Nation until she was taken away by child protective servic es when she was 18 months old. From there, she went into foster care where she was sexually, physically, and emotionally abused.

Then, when she was five years old, things changed after a U of S staff member and his wife came into her life.

The small five-year-old girl sat alone on a wooden chair in what seemed to her to be a long hallway. Her messy hair was cut choppy and she was missing her front teeth.

“I was watching him coming down the hallway, this tall man, I could only see a silhouette.”

He looked down at her and said, “Pammy.”

“Yeah,” she responded.

“Are you ready to come home?”

The child who was now accustomed to being bounced around from fos ter home to foster home, asked, “For how long?”

“Forever,” he replied.

“I looked at him, and I looked at the floor and down the hallway and back at him,” recalled Milliken.

“Forever is a long, long time,” the five-year-old said looking up at the tall man.

“Yes, forever is a long, long time,” he replied.

“I grabbed my suitcase and I got my teddy bear and we walked out of that four-storey welfare build ing in Battleford,” said Milliken.

As the little girl walked away from the building hand-in-hand with the tall stranger, she looked back and said, “That’s the big gest building I’ve ever seen.”

The stranger looked down at her and smiled.

“Well, where you’re go ing there are buildings 10 times bigger than that,” he said.

Milliken settled into a routine and home-life in Saskatoon with an edu cated and affluent fam ily. They worked hard to bring her out of her shell and help her heal from the trauma stemming from her childhood experiences.

Milliken described her adoptive father as a “re ally good guy” and when he died of cancer she said, “That was a killer for me.”

Her adoptive mother remarried a Saskatchewan Court of Queen’s Bench judge who also adopted her and Milliken said she “butted heads” with him.

She started to long to be with First Nations peo ple. Her adoptive mother wouldn’t let her learn about her Indigenous heritage or allow her to bring Indig enous friends home.

“She stuck up her nose to them,” said Mil liken.

Feeling alone and un wanted, she ran away at 13 and started hitchhiking. She ended up staying with her biological family on Thunderchild First Nation and found herself torn be tween two worlds, not fit ting into either. She saw things happening on the First Nation that bothered

her and she tried to stand up for some children who were being abused.

Facing difficulties on Thunderchild First Na tion, Milliken escaped the only way she knew how, by hitchhiking.

Continued on Page 9

Pamela Milliken pictured with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier this year.

Serial killer Robert Ben Rhoades snapped this picture of Pamela Milliken when she got into the cab of his semi-truck in 1985. He dropped her off in Winnipeg unharmed. | Courtesy Pam Milliken

What to do if your child is using substances

Sixty per cent of illicit drug users in Canada are between 15 and 24 years old, according to Statistics Canada. It’s one of the reasons why the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse and Addiction organizes Addictions Awareness Week (No vember 20 to 26, 2022).

This year’s theme is A Community of Caring and aims to highlight solutions to help address harms related to alcohol and drug use. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about prevention, talk about treatment and re covery and bring forward solutions.

KNOW THE SIGNS

While every teenager is different, here are signs your child may be using alcohol or drugs:

• Loss of interest in once pleasurable activities

• Changes in mood, such as depression or irritability

• Poor hygiene

• Changes in eating habits or sudden weight loss

• Sleeping more than usual

• Bad grades or problems at school

• Secretive behaviour, lying or stealing

• Dropping old friends

• Inability to focus

Knowing the signs of teen drug use can help you better un derstand if you should involve a professional.

TAKE ACTION

Here’s what to do if you suspect your child is dealing with addiction:

• Stay calm. Don’t show panic and anger. Instead, offer pa tience and support and keep lines of communication open. You want your child to see you as someone they can trust and come to with anything they’re going through.

• Create a support system. Remember, you aren’t alone. Lean on family members, teachers, counsellors and inter vention specialists to help you keep a level head and make appropriate decisions for your child’s well-being.

Finally, don’t enable them. Get your child the help they need. Early intervention can help. As a start, contact your family doctor or other trusted health professional.

Awareness campaign focusses on mental health and addictions issues

By Sierra D’Souza Butts Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The World-Spectator

Earlier this year, the Government of Saskatch ewan launched a public awareness campaign to help address the stigma often experienced by those facing mental health and addictions issues.

The theme of the cam paign — There is Help, There is Hope — focuses on changing the percep tions individuals have on mental health and addic tions, and to reduce the stigma surrounding it.

Mental Health and Ad dictions, Seniors and Rural and Remote Health Minis ter Everett Hindley, spoke with The World-Spectator about what the provin cial government hoped to achieve from the cam paign.

What do you hope to accomplish from this cam paign?

What we did today through the ministry of mental health and ad dictions, and the govern ment of Saskatchewan, we launched a new mental health awareness campaign about reducing the stigma. The campaign theme is There is Help, There is Hope.

What it focuses on is changing the underlying attitudes, behaviors and

beliefs that contribute to the stigma.

We’ve partnered with a number of Saskatchewan folks, some are actresses, musicians, some are social media influencers, some are addictions councillors, some are people with lived experiences who are using their voice to help promote that there’s an opportunity for people, and a powerful message of hope and re covery for folks, by sharing their stories to help reach as many people as possible as we can.

To let people across Saskatchewan know that in these particularly chal lenging times we’re facing, in this second year of the pandemic which is making things more stressful for everyone, but I think that’s what the message is about.

Which is trying to help promote awareness about mental health issues and to let people know that they aren’t alone facing these challenges.

For individuals who are currently facing men tal health and addiction issues, how will this cam paign help them?

There’s a number of dif ferent areas where we try to provide help and offer support to people out there.

The Government of Sas katchewan funds a number of services and supports across this province, as

part of our overall mental health and addictions bud get,” says Hindley.

That can include any number of things, whether it’s outpatient treatments for adults, children and youth. There are services in a number of centres and smaller clinics around the province for screening and assessments services, there’s consultation ser vices, acute mental health impatient services in our major eight centres as well.

Psychiatric rehabilita tion, including community residential supports, then of course Saskatchewan Hospital in North Battl eford, is providing a more in-depth support for peo ple.

In addition to that, I think what the campaign is about is letting people know that there is help out there, and it’s helping to promote conversation amongst folks.

If you listen to some of the messages in some of the videos that we released, there’s everything, from recommending people that they speak to their doctors, talk to your family on a regular basis, reach out to your friends and neighbors, and make sure that you take time each and every day as much as you can, to take time out for yourself, and to participate in activi ties that help you de-stress

and improve your own mental health.

I think it’s a combina tion of things in terms of that, as we try to focus on ending the stigma as part of this week’s launch of this new awareness cam paign.

As part of the focus for this launch of the cam paign, we’ve done other awareness campaigns in previous years, but this is fairly a substantial one.

It was built into this year’s budget for increased supports for mental health and addiction services here in Saskatchewan, but I think part of the goal of this is for individuals and people across the province to recognize that you truly aren’t alone in this.

There’s all kinds of peo ple across this province and some are former Saskatch ewan residents that live abroad right now who are famous individuals, who have faced mental health and addiction challenges throughout their lives and some of these folks are so cial media influencers in our own backyard, some are addictions councillors and some are people with their own lived experiences that can tell their story.

I think what that helps to do is that it helps people realize that they might not be alone.

Why did he spare her life? Question haunts her

The ride to Winnipeg

When serial killer Rob ert Ben Rhoades picked up Milliken in 1985, she was on her way to Winnipeg to visit a biological brother she had not seen since she was 18 months old.

About two hours into the drive, the long-haul truck driver looked at Mil liken and said, “You look like you’re 13.”

During the trip, Mil liken said the long-haul truck driver who said he was headed to Florida, complained about his wife, gave her beer, and got her to sit on his lap and drive the semi.

Eventually, he pointed to a sign in his truck that said, “Cash, grass or assno one rides for free.”

That was about two in the morning and the semitruck was traveling on a deserted stretch of high way.

“There were no vehicles and it was in the middle of the night,” said Milliken. “I didn’t have any money and I didn’t do drugs so we had consensual sex.”

Being in the middle of nowhere, Milliken said she didn’t know if he was go ing to throw her out in “the dark in a wooded stretch” of the Trans Canada High way.

“What if I did say no,” she added. “Would he

have kept me, tortured and chained me up, and kept me for weeks or months. Would he have killed me or kept me, sold me? I don’t know.”

Before having consen sual sex, Milliken told him to place a towel on the bed first to keep his sheets clean. Dutifully, he retrieved a white towel and placed it on the bed.

According to a 1996 story in the Tucson Week ly, reporter Karen Brandel said that FBI agents re trieved a bunch of white towels from Rhoades apartment, “one of which was saturated with blood.” Rhoades liked his white towels and forced his vic tims to place a white towel beneath them before he tortured them.

“All the girls that he killed he always had a white towel,” said Mil liken, adding when she discovered that, “it really freaked me out.”

In the morning they pulled up to a truck stop and the long-haul trucker offered to buy her break fast. She asked for a sand wich and pop.

He also kept asking the teen to travel with him to Florida.

“He asked me twice, ‘why don’t you come with me to Florida?’ He said he was going down to Florida, picking up a load and then

coming back to Edmon ton.”

Once they arrived in Winnipeg he told her he could sleep for a couple of hours and wait for her while she visited her broth er and then she could con tinue with him to Florida.

“I said ‘I don’t plan on staying for a couple of hours.’ I said ‘I plan on staying for six months.’”

Milliken believes part of the reason Rhoades didn’t kill her is that she told him that her dad was a judge and her family was waiting for her to call once she arrived at her destina tion.

“I’m supposed to phone home collect and I’m sup posed to call my brother when I get to Winnipeg,” Milliken told the long-haul trucker.

Reluctantly, he dropped her off at the bus depot but before driving away he looked at her and cau tioned, “Don’t talk to strangers.”

Now, the question why did he spare her life haunts her.

SASKTODAY.ca wrote a letter to Rhoades and sent it to him at the Menard Correctional Centre in Illi nois asking him questions, including why did he spare Milliken’s life. If Rhoades agrees to answer the ques tions, it has to be approved by the correctional centre.

The woman in the photo Milliken said she saw her photo being circulated on Facebook in 2015 ask ing if anyone recognized the unidentified woman in the photo that “The Truck Stop Killer” had in his pos session.

She said she recognized herself in the photo and wanted it taken down but didn’t have any photos of herself at that age to prove she was the unidentified woman.

She Googled the serial killer named with her pho to that was circulating.

“I recognized him. There’s a picture of him wearing a brown cowboy button-up shirt with his glasses and his hair was the same. But the day I met him he was wearing a baby blue shirt.”

Four years later when she was at her niece’s house she came across a photo of herself at the age of 18. The similarity was strik ing. With photo in hand to prove her claim, Milliken contacted the FBI and left a message. They called her back within an hour and a half and said they were sending the RCMP from St. Paul to her home in Al berta to take her statement and her photo.

“They took my state ment and I told them ev erything I knew.”

She said the FBI never

confirmed with her wheth er they identified her from the photo or not but she said soon after the RCMP visit to her home the photo was taken down from the FBI website and the RCMP confirmed with her that she was the woman in the photo found in the serial killer’s possession.

SASKTODAY.ca reached out to the Alberta RCMP to confirm whether the FBI had officers from the St. Paul detachment go to her home in Alberta to take her photo and state ment. They didn’t immedi ately respond.

SASKTODAY.ca con tacted the FBI to verify whether or not they con firmed the photo was in deed Milliken. The FBI Office of Public Affairs responded, saying, “Please file a FOIA request for information on this case.”

SASKTODAY.ca is in the process of filing the FOIA.

A life of purpose Milliken was born in St. Walburg and is back liv ing on Thunderchild First Nation and has had the opportunity to speak with youth in Yellowknife about the dangers of hitchhik ing. She wants to become a motivational speaker and share her life experi ences with youth in the hopes they will make bet ter choices.

She became a heavy weight boxer for Thun derchild First Nation and boxed in the Battlefords. In addition, she said she is the first Indigenous woman to become a certified fire arms instructor in Canada. She is an amateur photog rapher, obtained her heavy equipment ticket, and lived off the grid for four years hunting and fishing.

She is active in her com munity advocating for bet ter treatment of Indigenous women and speaking out against drug abuse.

Milliken recently tried her hand at politics and ran for chief of Thunderchild First Nation in October. Her adoptive father, the re tired judge, supported her efforts providing her with a vehicle and helping fund her campaign.

This year she participat ed in Krista’s kilometres for MMIW. In August she was in Ottawa for the raising of the Residential School flag ceremony and reading of the names of missing and murdered In digenous women and had her photo taken with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Looking back, Mil liken realizes she came too close to becoming a MMIW.

“After I did my own re search on him, I was like ‘holy crap, I could have been dead.’”

Investing in Surgeries

Revenues from our strong economy are being invested into our four-point Health Human Resource Action Plan. This fiscal year we have set an aggressive target of performing 97,000 surgeries, the highest number ever performed in one year.

Learn more at Saskatchewan.ca/hhr

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

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

Art Notes: Art on display

By Fay Erickson Battlefords Art Club

Many of us have our artwork displayed at the Chapel Gallery until Jan 8, 2023 and took part in the reception on Wednesday Nov. 23 from 5 p.m. to 8 pm.

An Art Symphony show and sale at the Comfort Inn showcases art on the following dates: Dec. 2 from 2 to 8 p.m., and Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 4 from noon to 4 pm. The artists participating are Jean Dunn, Grace Gerein, Lorraine Voegeli, Kathy Smith and myself.

My interest of late has been to paint with larger brushes and complete a painting quicker. It takes some planning to get the colour values and composition worked out ahead of time. It isn’t happening overnight, but I see some progress.

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

Get into the spirit at the Dekker Centre

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

THE BATTLEFORDS — The Dekker Centre is pre paring for Christmas this year, as they welcome a slate of Christmas shows over the coming weeks. What are you doing for Christmas this year?

Candlelight Processional Nov. 26 at 7 p.m .and Nov. 27 at 2 p.m., the Candle light Processional returns to the Dekker Centre with new music for 2022. Local musicians and talented voices from the Battlefords and area will narrate and recount the story of the birth of Christ, to remember what Christmas is all about.

Net proceeds will be donated to Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre this year, and tickets can be purchased online at their website: dekkercentre.com or over the phone at 306-445-7700.

A Rez Christmas Carol

Dec. 1, Ms. Purdy Parsimonias - A Rez Christmas Sto ry by Curtis Peeteetuce is coming to the Dekker Centre.

According to the Dekker Centre’s website, the show is a comedic look at life on the Rez during the Christmas season.

“Ms. Purdy Parsimonias is a scrooge-like band man ager who catches the attention of the Spirits of the Four Directions. The Spirits take Purdy on a journey through the lives of the people she has affected.

“The consequences of Ms. Purdy’s choices and actions are revealed to her as the events of the story unfold, cre ating a humorous and moving look at life on the Rez at Christmas time.”

Tickets can be purchased online at their web site: dekkercentre.com, or by phoning 306-445-7700.

Bob Leslie earns CGMA comedian of the decade award

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Bob Leslie, Wilkie preacher, gospel singer and comedian has been hon oured by the Gospel Music Association, as the come dian of the decade for nu merous awards earned over the last 10 years.

During his decadesspanning career, Leslie has met other well-known art ists from North America, ranging from Aven Grace to Tony Bennet. He’s sung in Nashville and had

the opportunity to travel around the world to per form.

“Well, I think it’s an honour, isn’t it? It’s a plea sure, it’s a treat, it’s special for a mature gentleman like myself,” Leslie said.

He says the award is ex tremely special to him. At one point he was a member of a nightclub band, and they always needed a com ic. “They picked me to do the little snippets, and (hu mour) has become a part of me; it’s who I am.”

Leslie recounted a time

when he was doing a TV show in Branson, Mo., and they introduced a wellknown opera singer before him.

“They said he’s played in New York, London, and they named all the major cities singing all these ma jor operas.

“Then they said, now we have another guest. He’s from Wilkie, Sask.”

The Leslies moved to Wilkie in 2007, seeking re tirement.

“We wanted to move to a safe community where

we can travel, and we loved it. It’s a good community,” Leslie’s wife of 64 years, Joan Leslie, said.

“When we got mar ried, they said, ‘those two, they’ll never make it.’ That’s just the power of God to change your life because we were the least likely candidates.”

Joan expanded on her husband’s beginnings, say ing, “I think, initially, he sang in the bars and night clubs, and he had a mea sure of success.

Artwork by Fay Erickson. | Photos submitted

Bob Leslie receives an award from the Country Gospel Music Association, presented by Aven Grace, for comedian of the decade. | Photo by Miguel Fenrich

Chris Hodges’ newest body of work at the Chapel Gallery

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

Chris Hodges says he thinks hands are the most challenging thing to draw, which is why his newest body of work features sole ly hands.

Although Hodge has been interested in art since high school, he’s pursued it only after retiring. A selftaught artist, Hodge was accepted into art school almost 50 years ago, but he decided to earn a living as a computer programmer in London, Ont., where he started his own software company.

“You just couldn’t earn a living at it unless you wanted to teach and do workshops, and I had no

The Quilt Patch

interest in that. Really, until I retired, I pretty well was right out of (making art) for 50 odd years.”

Hodges retired in 2004, moving to North Battleford to help his family. Sparing the odd workshop, he never really touched art despite his love for it.

“After retirement, I got into doing figure painting, and I thought, ‘you know Chris, you’re gonna have to learn how to do hands.’

Learning how to paint hands, how to draw them, that got me started on doing a series of hands,” Hodge said.

Leah Garven, curator/ manager for the Chapel Gallery, said at Hodge’s artist exhibition reception Nov. 4, “I like to say he’s

fearless because he takes on challenges and works through them until he gets a good result. He’s fearless in what he undertakes, maybe stubborn could be a word.”

Agreeing with Garven, Hodge said, “It is about be ing stubborn, the only way you learn is by doing it.”

Hodge paints hands from photographs, pictures on modelling sites and sometimes even sketches of his own hands. He doesn’t try to duplicate them since he’s not a fan of photore alism, but he tries to add something extra.

“I try to get some emo tion, work with the colours and the shapes to give the hands character.”

As he’s focused on hands over the last few years,

Hodges has developed an appreciation for them. He’s fascinated by how hands connect people, and they help us communicate with the world.

“Everything you do, you do with your hands,” he said.

Hodges adds that people in the trades, doing repeti tive tasks, often have hands that mirror their lives. He used his own hands, which have arthritis, as an exam ple of the story hands can tell about a person.

Hodge will be showcas ing some upcoming work in 2024 in Saskatoon and is anticipating a future show at the Chapel Gallery. Hands will be exhibited at the Chapel Gallery until Dec. 4.

SaskEnergy supports group with $500 grant

By Corinne J. Nedelec Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild

Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild members met Nov. 4 with around 19 ladies braving the miserable weather and roads.

It was reported the group received a $500 grant from SaskEnergy please.

There was a class on Oct. 20 called the Roundy Round with about seven

enthusiastic ladies taking part. Thanks to Carol for teaching this class. Lots of interesting variations and colour combos resulted. There were many other la dies there working on their various projects, as well. Nice to see so many out to use the room and to see what others are doing.

There was retreat Nov. 17, 18 and 19 with place mats being made for the meals on wheels Christ

mas presents. Strip poker for all who want to join in was played, with winners receiving strips of fabric.

There is a consensus from the members wanting to have a Christmas lunch on Dec. 2 at noon with the meeting to follow at 1p.m., hope to see you there!!

“No! My quilt is not fin ished! And I’d appreciate it if you’d stop using the ‘F’ word in my sewing room!”

Bob Leslie: Comedian of the decade

Continued from Page 10

Then he sang with a house band for a number of years, and they were a re ally tight group. After (he) came to faith in Christ and started serving the Lord, (he) grew.

“He once had a pastor tell him, ‘Bob, you have a story to tell,’ so Bob ar ranged to go and sing

and tell his testimony in churches. Some of his songs are three minutes sermons of hope, encour agement and joy,” Joan said.

Though Bob hasn’t per formed since a July con cert, he’s excited to con tinue.

“I’m looking forward to it again, instead of sitting

around and thinking that I’m 86. We’ve got to look forward, we don’t look back,” he said.

He hasn’t pursued any thing yet, but he’s planning to start after the COVID-19 pandemic fully subsides.

“Celebrate the good things that happen.”

Chris Hodges’ newest body of work, Hands.

Chris Hodges, pictured with two of his favorite pieces in his newest body of work, Hands. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

Rivers’ Edge Quilt Guild members are pleased to receive a $500 grant from SaskEnergy. | Photos submitted

Hafford Vikings earn fourth provincial title

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

When is that howling, blowing, nasty wind going to quiet down? It’s been nonstop for many days in a row now. I hate to see what the rest of 2022-23 winter has in store for us. Grin and bear it or become a snowbird and head to warmer climate.

Hafford Vikings senior boys’ football team did it again on Nov. 12 on home territory by winning their fourth provincial title in a row. They defeated North Valley High School from Langenburg by a score of 38 to 16. This was one of their closer games and a nail biter at times, but the Vikings opened up in the third quarter and never looked back. Even with the weather being so miserable there was a decent sized crowd to cheer the home town team to their champi onship. The boys did admit that after the game, the medals and speeches they were glad to get off the field and warm up.

A new arrival in the Whitkow area made first-time parents Traye Tkatchuk and fiancée Hay lee Ference excited. Their son, Cash Allen was born Nov. 7. Traye’s dad, Vin cent (Shannon), grew up on the family farm near Whit kow where his parents Jim and Darcy still reside.

Nothing draws people from a distance to Meet ing Lake like Linda Price’s Halloween Haunted Dis play of Horror, which was an over-the-top event for three weekends before Oct. 31. She along with Carmen

Gonda and Brandy Price put endless hours and ef fort into this project start ing the end of August for the public to enjoy with donations going to worthy organizations.

Money raised has been donated to Idylwild Lodge, community kitchen and Prairie Community En deavours, all in Spiritwood. This year Linda had a draw for an adult and child’s gift basket with winners been Dave Staver and R A Cas tillo. This is a yearly event people look forward to at tending. Thank you to Lin da, Carmen and Brandy, plus many others who have pitched in to help. Can’t wait to see what Halloween 2023 at Meeting Lake has to offer.

Mayfair’s Christmas craft sale this past Saturday was a busy event, but had fewer vendors than three years ago. In the kitchen were some Filipinos from Spiritwood who did the lunch, serving ethnic food. There were door prizes to be won and Santa even ap peared towards the end.

I attended the seniors’ potluck in Maymont Nov.

16 and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Every Wednes day afternoon this group gets together in their wellmaintained hall to play cards and games with much chatter and laughter. The evening ended with bingo.

The hamlet of Ruddell had their monthly potluck the day after Maymont’s so this kept the regulars busy. The next one for Ruddell is scheduled for Dec. 20.

Brennon and Jolene

Strain, owners of a newly formed company, 4 Suns Ag Solutions Ltd., were nominated and won an award at the Battlefords Chamber of Commerce BBEX awards night two weeks ago. They are grate ful to their customers, staff, friends and family. Their business goal is to help farmers succeed in agricul ture. The longevity of the family farm is important to so many families and the Strains want to help pass

those values to the next generation. Passion, deter mination and many hours of hard work is what is making this business suc ceed. Jolene is Lorna and Russell Buziak’s daughter, the youngest of four chil dren. The Buziaks reside by Whitkow. Our daughter, Amanda Sevick, and she grew up together, sharing their passion for figure skating and dance lessons.

It’s always more difficult for vendors at

craft sales to sell their items in a small-town sale compared to a larger centre, but they deserve our support. Borden’s Christmas market is to be Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the community centre. A reminder to please bring cash as there is no ATM in this village. Radisson is having a Christmas bake sale from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Goodrich Events Centre on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Network works for benefit of children

Submitted B’fords Early Childhood Community Planning Network

Battlefords Early Child hood Community Plan ning Network (BECCPN) works collectively and collaboratively to improve outcomes for children and families.’

This is an intersectoral networking and collabora tive action team, supported by mutually reinforcing activities for early child hood development in the Battlefords and area. We share information, access gaps and strengths in our community. This Net work meets monthly to bring forward ideas. events and programs that we all can support and promote

through each of our early childhood sectors.

Our responsibility as a network is to uphold the rights of children as stated in the Battlefords Chil dren’s Charter, promote broad community partici pation, determine opportu nities for improvement of services, to provide input and feedback to manag ing structures and promote positive change.

The network consists of over 30 organizations and agencies that come togeth er to share information and support projects and events in the Battlefords. We val ue early childhood and pro vide input and feedback to managing structures. Our focus is on families with children prenatal to five years, however, we work in partnership with other key groups such as the Battl

efords Youth Network and Hub Committee.

For more information regarding this network, please call 306-446-4545 or 306-446-6443.

Free b-ball camp Dec. 11

A free basketball camp is being hosted at Sakewew High School Dec. 11.

Hosted by the Sas katchewan Rattlers of the Canadian Elite Basketball league, the camp will offer two coed sessions: ages 8 to 12, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and ages 13 to 18, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

There are 32 spots available at both camps.

The camp includes 2.5 hours of direct basketball instruction by Rattlers players and affiliates, of fering an opportunity to gain hands-on instruction on the key principles of basketball.

The camps have a coach to player ration of 1.8 and participants will receive a Rattlers swag bag and a ticket to a Rattlers game.

Sign up at THE.RAT TLERS.COM.

Linda Price and friends created a Halloween Haunted Display of Horror at her farm near Meeting Lake. Visitors were invited to tour the spooky display over three weekends leading up to Halloween. | Photos by Linda Price

SASKTODAY.ca

Local Saskatchewan Discovered

Poundmaker Museum preserves heritage

By Miguel Fenrich Staff Reporter

When Chief Pound maker signed Treaty Six, he was clear about his po sition; it was the govern ment’s responsibility to provide food for his people during times of famine.

Nine years later, in May 1885, Poundmaker and several First Nation bands tried to have Battleford In dian Agent Mr. Rae provide them with more rations. Unsuccessful, a group of young warriors raided the stores and private homes of Battleford citizens.

Seeking retribution without a direct order, Lt. Col. Otter formed a col umn of the Canadian mi litia and drove them west.

On May 2, Otter launched a surprise attack on the people at Broken Knife’s Lookout in the early hours of the morning with more than 250 men.

Determined to defend his people, Poundmaker and his warriors pushed

Otter and his men into a retreat within six hours. Then, Poundmaker con vinced the warriors not to counter-attack and kill the retreating forces.

Chief Poundmaker and his men walked to Battl eford in search of a peace agreement but were ar rested. Poundmaker was charged with treason-fel ony, tried in Regina and a jury found him guilty in August.

Though sentenced to three years in Stony Moun tain Penitentiary in Mani toba, Poundmaker was released a year later and walked to his adopted fa ther in Alberta, dying just a few months later.

He is quoted as speak ing at his trial, “Everything that is bad has been laid against me this summer, there is nothing of it true. Had I wanted war, I would not be here now. I should be on the prairie. You did not catch me. I gave myself up. You have got me because I

wanted justice.”

Today, on the land that once was the site of the bat tle that claimed nine lives, stands the Chief Pound maker Museum and His toric Site. Founded in 1996 by the chief and council for Poundmaker Cree Nation, the museum was unused for years before its revival in 2016. It is now curated by author, playwright, and director of Miyawata Cul ture Inc., Floyd Favel.

“One of our first acts was to ask for the exonera tion of Chief Poundmaker during our first-ever story telling festival. So, the mu seum has played a central role in our community.” Favel said over email.

Chief Poundmaker was exonerated by Prime Min ister Justin Trudeau in 2019 during an event at the museum.

The museum is devoted to preserving Indigenous history and the identity of the Poundmaker First Nation to strengthen and define its people. The mu seum also tells the story of the community and celebrates the people and families that have built the community into what it is today.

A sign inside the lobby of the museum reads, “It’s important that we take our own future into our hands, and this museum is just one of the ways we can demonstrate those ideas … This land is our legacy.”

The sign goes on to mark the importance of the elders who voiced their opinions, the band council for support and the original curators.

Inside, paintings by in digenous artists hang on the walls, and pictures of families dating back hun dreds of years are present ed. Outside, plaques and cairns mark the history be hind the attack, and where Chief Poundmaker’s body was laid to rest in 1967.

To the north stands the Basil Favel Memorial tee pee.

“… he was one of the principal fighters during the battle. What I want to do is expand the story of the battle to include other fighters from our community whose names are slowly being lost, like Chatsis, Simaganis, Kasokeo, Antoine, Pyakutch as well as warriors and war chiefs from other communities who were present,” Favel said.

But Favel is more than a museum curator. East of the museum, on Pound maker Cree Nation, is the Miyawata Culture Site, of which Favel is the direc tor. Favel extended his gratitude to the chief and council as they are allow ing him to build a site for festivals, ceremonies and cultural events, north of

Wishtikan Lake.

“It is important that we commit to culture and language in a tangible way otherwise it can be lost.”

Teepees and a long house have already been built. Still, a lodge inspired by a Kidasta Earth Lodge, is currently being erected, with plans well underway. The lodge has been de signed by Alix Van Der Donckt Ferrand, a Peru vian Wendat artist from Montreal.

“I also have a domed lodge from the Anishinabe people, and that is for cul ture and language work shops. It is important that events take place in Indige nous structures, and struc tures inform our world view and philosophy.”

The Chief Poundmaker Museum and Historical Centre s open during the summer months, but a tour can be scheduled during the winter. For more in formation, visit their Face book group.

At right, during the Battle of Cut Knife, a Nez Perce member living with the Cree and Assinibione, was killed in battle. He was buried where he fell.

the final resting place of Chief Poundmaker whose body was moved in 1967 from Alberta. to Saskatchewan. | Photos by Miguel Fenrich

An art statue on loan from Chief Duane Antoine, gifted to him by the Blackfoot Nation.

The Longhouse overlooking Lake Wishtikan, erected by Floyd P. Favel at Miyawata Culture Site.

Poundmaker Cree Nation library and archives.

Christmas lights brighten the village

By Lorna Pearson Correspondent

The village has been a busy place recently as the Christmas lights have been put up on the power poles making the evenings brighter. There is action at the skating and curling rinks where the ice is being installed, so there will soon be activities over there.

The bridge players gath

ered Nov.15 with three tables in play. Nov. 15 win ners were Gerry Craig and Mary Phelps, with Donna Scherman and Catriona Winterholt second. Nov. 17, again with three tables, saw the winner again Ger ry Craig and Mary Phelps, and tied for next spot were Margaret Dyck and Dave Creegan, along with Jean Lawes and Fraser Glen.

Two films were shown

at the Do Drop In Nov. 14, arranged by Vivianne Les ko. The projector was op erated by Trudy Janssens.

The films were borrowed from the Yorkton Film Festival. The first film was Esther and Sai, two young nursing students, new to the country, in Vancouver. They endured racism and homesickness. A night of loneliness and self doubt threatened to unravel

Unity News: Winter Wonderland seeks entries

By Sherri Solomko Correspondent

Christmas activities are now part of community calendars. Upcoming for Unity, so far, are:

• Winter Wonderland is looking for entries from businesses, groups, organi zations and individuals to be part of a winter lights parade, window decorating contest, live entertainment and special events Dec. 8. Contact Nicole at the Unity Credit Union or Hollie at Oak and Stone if you want to enter any of these cat egories.

• Even if you haven’t registered your pet, there still may be some openings Nov. 26 at Wiggles and Whiskers Pet Supply store for photos with Mrs. Claus and your pets.

• Unity Chamber of Commerce shop local pro motion, “Grand in your Hand,” begins Dec. 1.

Dec. 3 is a big day in Unity as three different

Christmas themed events are being held that include:

• Dec. 3 is a Christmas trade show upstairs in the Community Centre 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. So far, there are 30 vendors and will include a concession, Santa photos, kids’ craft area, raffle table and a “gift a tree” Christ mas craft that gives back with Realty Executives.

• Also on Dec. 3, Flour ish Studios is hosting a benefit for KidSport, Se cret Santa, the Unity Com munity Daycare and dance costumes. The event is being held at UCHS gym with show starting at 7 p.m. featuring dancers from the studio. There is also limited availability mini sessions done by pho tographer Erika Riemer.

• Dec. 3 will also be Santa Day at 2nd Avenue Cinema, with a sponsored movie and treat bags.

Dec. 18, there will be Community Carol Festival hosted by Unity Music Fes tival Association.

Unity Composite High School senior girls’ vol leyball earned a spot at SHSAA 3A provincials, held in Macklin Nov. 1819. They did not advance to medal rounds, thus ending their season. UCHS boys won their way to regional championship final but in am epic battle with As siniboia Composite High School Rockets, they had to settle for silver. The Warriors will advance to SHSAA 3A boys’ provin cials in Assiniboia Nov. 25-26.

Unity has another source of community pride when it was announced Re gan L’Heureux was named Baseball Canada’s Volun teer of the Year.

We can’t say it enough, put your money where your house is. Our community businesses offer products and services that we don’t have to travel out of town for. many of them offer gift card or gift certificate op tions.

them, but they found each other and a kindred spirit sparked. The second film was Incorrigible about Velma Demerson in 1939. She was jailed in Ontario for falling in love with a Chinese man. She endured mistreatment and torture. Many years after her re lease she sued the Ontario government for wrongful incarceration and until her death at age 98, she contin ued to fight for the rights of thousands of women im prisoned on the grounds of incorrigibility until 1964. There will be more films shown in January.

The funeral service for the 95-year-old Dorothy Ray was held in the Meota Community Complex Nov. 18 with a full-house crowd attending. This showed that she was well respected

and loved by the communi ty and her family for a very long time.

Canasta was played at the Do Drop In Nov. 17 but some folks attended the fu neral before going to play cards, so there were no of ficial winners, but a nice social afternoon.

The Meota Lakeshore Lions Club have their plans in order for a New Years Eve dance to be held in the Community Complex. You can start dancing at 7 p.m. to Entertainment. Admission is $20. There will be one $1,000 door prize for someone present at the time of the draw and a 50/50 draw with a guar anteed worth of no less than $500. So, it’s sound ing pretty exciting and be sure to include this in your future plans. More details

will be put out before that date.

A Remembrance Day service was held at Meota Community Centre. It was well attended by many, from children to grandpar ents.

Readings included In Flanders Fields read by Bob Zurowski and Re sponse to In Flanders Fields by Linda Ard.

Two speakers highlight ed the service. Rev. Father Barry Tkatchuk (veteran) provided a thoughtful and thought-provoking reflec tion. Leo Janssens shared his memories of living as a child in Holland during the Nazi occupation of the Second World War.

Wreaths were laid by local dignitaries including veteran Ray Knowles.

Hancock Petroleum supports Guides

by Kathy Utri

Correspondent

Maidstone Girl Guide units are sending out a huge thank you to Jason Hancock and Hancock Pe troleum Ltd. for their dona tion of $500 to go toward programming and activi ties for our Sparks, Brown ies, Guides and Pathfind ers. We are very grateful for the support of Hancock as well as other local busi nesses and individuals who are helping us get back on our feet after COVID shut downs.

Maidstone members and parents had a fantastic evening of sorting and pre paring bags of cans/bottles for their trip to SARCAN in Turtleford. They were such an enthusiastic group of helpers. Thanks to Hayley Yuill and Kristin Shantz for getting every

one organized, and to Gord Banks for arranging use of the facility and transporta tion as well as helping us year-round. Recyclables collected from May 30 to Nov. 1, 2022 realized an amazing $1,195. Maidstone Guiding units look forward to resuming their bottle drive in the spring, after having to cancel for three years.

You can find bottle and can donation bins at the Hancock Petro-Can card lock facility north of Maid stone. Donations benefit local youth programs in the Maidstone community. Past recipients have been Maidstone Girl Guides, Grace Community Youth Group and Maidstone Gully Multiple 4-H Club. Hancock Petroleum ap preciates each and every customer and resident who donate to this effort.

Submitted

An enthusiastic group of helpers who sorted returnables to be delivered to Turtleford SARCAN. | Photos by Gord Banks

Jason Hancock of Hancock Petroleum Ltd. presented a cheque for $500 to Hayley Yuill, Maidstone Guiding leader.

We remember, unite and shall overcome

By Rhea Good

The Saskatchewan gov ernment honoured the vic tims of Holodomor Nov. 22.

The annual provincial commemoration of the Holodomor Ukrainian Famine-Genocide took place at noon in the legis lative rotunda followed by an outdoor wreath laying at the “Bitter Memories of Childhood” monument southeast of the legislature building.

Saskatchewan was the first province in Canada to formally recognize the Holodomor as a genocide with the passage of Bill 40: An Act to Recognize the Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) on May 7, 2008. Bill 40 had the unanimous support of all MLAs. the bill en shrines the fourth Saturday in November of each year as “Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) Memorial Day.”

There will be a free showing of “Bitter Har vest” Saturday, Nov. 26, 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Capitol Annex Theatre in North Battleford. “Bitter Har vest” is a Hollywood film set in Ukraine 1932-1933. Film rating: is 14+. Nov. 26 is Canada’s national Holodomor Memorial Day From Nov. 21to 25,

Schools across Canada are urged to include the Holodomor in their teach ing, specifically Friday which is designated as Ho lodomor Memorial Day in Schools.

Holodomor Facts

• The term “Holodo mor” was not used until 1953. At the time, people said “the holod” or “the famine.” ‘Holod’ means hunger in Ukrainian;

• The region of Ukraine was part of the United Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR) at the time;

• Joseph Stalin’s fiveyear plan to collectivize all farmland according to the communist philosophy of the USSR was implement ed 1929-34;

• Holodomor occurred in a time of peace, there was no official declara tion of war or aggres sion against the region of Ukraine;

• The famine was not a result of natural disaster or crop failure;

•The height of the fam ine occurred in June 1933 when all hidden and re maining food stocks had been depleted;

• In June 1933, people were dying at the rate of 28,000 per day;

• Food shortages were created by government policy;

•The Law of Five Stalks was passed in August 1932 making it a crime for any one, children included, to possess any more than five stalks of grain from a col lective farm;

• Wheat and other foods were confiscated by com munist military forces.

Print and Video

Learn more about the Holodomor through videos and books.

• “Bottle of Grain” his torical fiction illustrated children’s book by Sas katchewan author, Rhea Good;

• 1953 – Raphael Lem kin, authority on interna tional law, wrote “Soviet Genocide in the Ukraine” to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Great Famine, as it was called at that time. Lemkin would later define the distinc tion between mass death and intentional genocide as “not simply a case of mass murder,” but “a case of genocide, of the destruc tion, not of individuals only, but of a culture and a nation.”;

• “Stalin’s Genocides” by Norman M. Naimark;

• “Stalinism, Collectiv ization, and the Great Fam ine” by Andrea Graziosi;

• “My Dearest Dido” historical fiction novel for young adults by Saskatch

Harvest of Despair - Corbin Moore –Hafford School.

Artwork by Stasja Androsoff - Hafford School.

Not More Than 5 Wheat - Isabella Meaker – Hafford School.

ewan author, Marion Mu tala.

Video available for viewing on YouTube:

• “Holodomor: Voices of Survivors” - a 30-min ute documentary with firsthand accounts of 25 Canadian survivors who tell their stories as children during Holodomor;

• “The Soviet Story” –first 11 minutes are an ex

Artwork by Inge Taljaard - Hafford School.

cellent introduction to the historical background;

• “Hunger for Truth: The Rhea Clyman Story” – a Canadian journalist and eyewitness in Ukraine was among the first jour nalists to write about the conditions in Ukraine in 1932-1933.

Full length feature films:

• 2020 – “Mr. Jones”

– based on the career of Welsh journalist, Gareth Jones, who risks his life to expose the truth about the famine to the world

• 2016 – “Bitter Har vest” – story begins be fore the Holodomor as two young adults fall in love before lives are torn apart as the winter of 1932-33 brings the unexpected and the unbelievable.

RancheR FARMER

Communities recognized for age-friendly status

Submitted

Three Saskatchewan communities are being rec ognized for their commit ment to age-friendly prin ciples through community engagement and action.

Kipling and District, Moose Jaw and Regina are each receiving an award from the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM) to ac knowledge their work on activities and program ming to be more inclusive of seniors and older adults, leading to communities that benefit all ages.

This includes: establishing an Age-Friendly Committee; securing the support of municipal government; assessing the commun ity, determining where Age-Friendly initiatives

are needed; and developing, publiciz ing and implementing an action plan.

“Fifteen communities in this province are part of the Age-Friendly movement,” SSM Board Member and Chair of the Age-Friendly Saskatchewan Committee Doug Still said. “Togeth er, their combined popula tions represent over half a million people in a variety of locations ranging from rural municipalities and towns, to our two largest cities. These communities are committed to looking at community development by and with older adults, knowing that age-friend ly means all-ages friendly where everyone benefits.”

An age-friendly com munity is designed to en able all residents to live safely, enjoy good health

and stay involved, and could include:

sidewalks that are well lit and kept in good shape; accessible services; buildings with auto matic door openers and elevators; and seniors taking part in various community ac tivities, such as arts and cultural activities, taking courses or volunteering for charities or civic duties.

“I congratulate the recipients of [the] Age-Friendly recognition on their efforts to con sider the needs of seniors and older adults, and how their communities can play a role in enhancing their quality of life,” Minister of Seniors Everett Hindley said. “Our government supports the Age-Friend ly Communities initiative, which promotes healthy,

accessible and inclusive communities, where every one is valued and sup ported.”

For more informa

tion on the Age-Friendly Communities Recognition Program, including the application process, visit the Saskatchewan Seniors

Nature is Awesome

Mechanism website at https://skseniorsmechan ism.ca/ or the Age-Friend ly Saskatchewan website at www.agefriendlysk.ca.

The horned owl is often referred to as “the tiger of the woods” because, on silent wings, it is an awesome nighttime hunter. Its sharp talons and beak are designed to be lethal weapons for this stealthy hunter, which can stand two feet tall. Squirrels, rabbits and other small animals or birds are often its prey. The owl will regurgitate wads of fur, feathers, bones and other indigestible parts in the form of pellets which can be found under its roost. Horned owls are common throughout all of North America. Design all around. | Photo and text by Jim McLane.

KORPACH: On Saturday, November 12, 2022, Terry Lee Korpach, a loving partner and caring father of three, passed away at the age of 53 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born and raised in North Battleford, SK. His grace and dignity will always be remembered by his family. His contagious and sarcastic sense of humour brought positive energy to the people around him. Terry was always willing to lend a helping hand. He is predeceased by his parents, Eugene and June Korpach. He will be remembered by his fiancée, Tina Anderson (Katlyn and Megan); children, Jenelle, Tyson and Kaitlyn; and brothers, nieces, nephews, aunts and many cousins and friends. A Celebration of Life took place on Saturday, November 19, 2022 from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm at the Pioneer Association 792 - 101st street North Battleford. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be directed to the Cancer Lodge in Saskatoon and the BUH Palliative Care Unit. Condolences for the family can be made at www.eternalmemoriesfuneral.ca Arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service & Crematorium –Elle Dell Funeral Director.

Card of Thanks

The family would like to thank Dr. Campbell and the palliative care unit for the care Terry received during his time at the BUH.

In Loving Memory

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.

Beautiful Border Collie Australian Shepherd pups 2 female and 2 male 3 months old, 1 one year old female and 1 two year old male have shots. To good farm homes. 1-306-304-8007

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

WANTED:

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of VINCENT MARSH late of Turtleford, Saskatchewan, deceased.

ALL CLAIMS against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 1st day of December, 2022.

NORSASKLAW

RICHARD GIBBONS LAW OFFICE Barrister and Solicitor 1381A - 101st Street North Battleford, SK S9A 0Z9 Solicitors for the Executors of the Estate of Vincent Marsh

2 bedroom house for rent. 1482 103rd street. Fridge and stove included. References required. Call 306-446-8866.

AGPRO SEEDS: BUYING HEATED, DAMAGED CANOLA. On farm pickup, prompt payment! TOP PRICES PAID IN SASK. Phone: 306-873-3006 or Visit AGPRO website for bids: agproseeds.com

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HEAVY

Thank you to the Chamber of Commerce for all their hard work. Thank you to the BBEX Committee for honouring the Craig family. Thank you to all our loyal customers and employees over the years. The Battlefords is a great place to live, work, play and raise a family. We have the very best of everything in the Battlefords.

-The Craig family

ANNOUNCEMENTS

battlefords humane society

Hey guys! I’m Hopps! I’m a super sweet and loving bunny, I love being held and getting pets on my head! I came into the shelter as a stray; sick, skinny, and afraid. Now these lovely people have helped me and I’m happy again! I’m looking to find my forever home, one where I’m free to do as a bunny does! If you’re looking for a velvety soft companion to love and adore, then I’m the bunny for you!

Notice of Call for Nominations

(Municipal or School Division Elections)

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:

Councillor: Village of Speers Number to be elected: 1 will be received by the undersigned on the 14th day of December, 2022 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Village of Speers Office located at 123 Main Street and during regular business hours from Thursday November 24th, 2022 to Tuesday December 13th, 2022 at the Village of Speers Office located at 123 Main Street.

Nomination forms and Public Disclosure Statements may be obtained at the following location: Speers Village Office 123 Main Street Dated this 23rd day of November 2022.

Madison Jackson Returning Officer

R.M. OF CUT KNIFE NO. 439 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS ATTON’S

LAKE REGIONAL PARK AUTHORITY

The R.M. of Cut Knife is seeking nominations for 2 members at large to sit on the Atton’s Lake Regional Park Authority Board for 4 year terms. Terms commence January 1st, 2023

Nominees must be lease holders in the Atton’s Lake Regional Park and would require one person to nominate him/her to this position. The nominator must also be a lease holder in the Atton’s Lake Regional Park.

Nomination forms may be picked up at the R.M. office. All nominations must be at the R.M. office by November 30th, 2022 at 4:00 pm.

The Council of the R.M. of Cut Knife No. 439 will be making their decision at the December, 2022 Council meeting.

Dana Klus

R.M. Administrator

News Optimist November 17th & 24th, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF NORTH BATTLEFORD

Third Avenue United Church Advent Season Services

Nov. 27 - 10:30 am

1st Sunday of Advent – “Hope” Covenanting Service for Jo-Ann Hills with Communion & Pot Luck Lunch

Dec. 4 - 10:30 am

2nd Sunday of Advent – “Peace” Bring gifts of toys and/or clothing for the Empty Stocking Fund

Dec. 11 - 10:30 am

3rd Sunday of Advent – “Joy” “White Gift Sunday”

Bring non-perishable food items and/or monetary gifts for the food bank

Dec. 18 - 10:30 am

4th Sunday of Advent - “Love” Dec. 24 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm “Christmas Eve Service” Dec. 25 – NO SERVICE

Jan. 1 – 10:30 am “New Years Day service”

1301 - 102nd Street, North Battleford, SK. Phone: 306-445-8171

Public notice is hereby given, Pursuant to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007 that the City of North Battleford intends to pass a bylaw to amend the Zoning Bylaw No. 1971 as hereinafter provided.

It is proposed to amend the Zoning Bylaw, which forms part of Bylaw Number 1971, as follows:

Intent

To amend Zoning Bylaw No. 1971 Section 4.10.10, Billboard Regulations, by adding Temporary Billboards as shown below:

Temporary billboards will be considered at Councils’ discretion outside of the corridor and must adhere to the following criteria:

i. Must not be within 200 meters of a Residential Property

ii. May be required to be removed in its entirety at the discretion of council upon receiving any development applications that fall within 200 metres iii. May be required to be removed in its entirety at the discretion of council if the signs fall into disrepair and/or become derelict

The following areas are designed as “billboard-free areas” wherein billboards and other large signs are prohibited:

i. Any residential district.

Reason

This amendment has been requested to be made to the Zoning Bylaw No. 1971 by an applicant looking to place a Billboard outside of the current Billboard Corridor

Bylaw Inspection

Any interested person may inspect the bylaw at City Hall, 1291-101st Street, North Battleford, SK Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Copies are available to persons through the Office of the City Clerk.

Public Hearing

Representations respecting the Bylaw will be considered by the Council on the 12th day of December, at the Don Ross Centre at 6:30 p.m. Council shall hear any person or group of persons or person acting on their behalf, who wish to make a representation. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to City Hall before the hearing.

Issued at North Battleford this 24th Day of November 2022.

Stacey Hadley, City Clerk

Notice of Call for Nominations Municipality Election

Public notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:

Councillor: Village of Ruddell Number to be elected (1) will be received by the undersigned on the 30 day of November, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Ruddell Community Centre, 12 Elm Street, Ruddell, Saskatchewan, and on November 17th to November 29th, 2022 at # 3 Pine Street, Ruddell, Saskatchewan. Should you require further information please call 306-827-7874.

Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location: # 3 Pine Street, Ruddell, Saskatchewan.

Dated this 14th day of November, 2022.

Darrin Beaudoin Returning Officer

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A96B02861 154256418$207.78$15.00$222.78 NW314413W3129343169$37.68$15.00$52.68 NW334511W3140830567$294.86$15.00$309.86 SW334511W3140830589$333.49$15.00$348.49 NW264513W3118559638$519.95$15.00$534.95 SW264513W3118559650$749.34$15.00$764.34 NE274513W3118559672$638.59$15.00$653.59 0102AN2028 143964580$0.94$15.00$15.94 0202AN2028 143964591$0.94$15.00$15.94 2202AN2028 145736107$1.85$15.00$16.85 2302AN2028 145736118$1.86$15.00$16.86 1601AN2028 143964614$0.92$15.00$15.92 1701AN2028 145736095$0.92$15.00$15.92

Dated this 14th day of November, 2022 Darrin Beaudoin Treasurer

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF PAYNTON NO. 470

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 January 17, 2023, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

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

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY Title No. Total Costs Total Arrears Arrears* and Costs

NE 16-47-21-3 EXT 38 119446207 229.37 319.00 548.37

SE 21-47-21-3 EXT 0 119446229 257.95 319.00 576.95

SW 21-47-21-3 EXT 0 119446645 303.11 371.00 674.11

BLK/PAR A-PLAN 91B02159 EXT 38 128766314 60.35 371.00 431.35

* On January 1, 2023 the 2022 taxes will become arrears and be added to the amount required to remove the property from tax enforcement proceedings. Penalty is calculated to the date of the Notice and will continue to accrue as applicable.

Dated this 10th day of November, 2022

Michelle Buechler, Administrator

TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

Village of Krydor PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land described in the following list are fully paid before the 24th day of January 2023 and 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.

Part of Lot Part of Section

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Lot Sec Blk. Twp. Plan Range Title No

Total Arrears Costs Advertising

Total Arrears & Costs

63R2049119604562212.8031.00243.80 73R2049119604573212.8031.00 243.80 83R20491340834366.5531.00 37.55 93R20491340835156.5531.00 37.55 134R2049119604843130.2231.00 161.22 144R2049119604854130.2231.00 161.22

Dated this 24th day of November, 2022 Wendy Tanchak, Treasurer

Arrears and Costs 1164B074241393266663880.3616.603,896.96 9277B107311469190111280.6316.601,297.23 26277B107311193102071831.8616.601,848.46 30277B107311512695652249.1816.602,265.78 10577B107321529262631784.5616.601,801.16 1693B053101305363891480.7116.601,497.31 1B702B080851494540291406.9516.601,423.55 2875B037511437544191226.0416.601,242.64 11078B119411305102351219.6916.601,236.29 13164B044241417463842785.6516.602,802.25 1579B053331196928511358.5816.601,375.18 3779B056331511077021662.9016.601,679.50 9999B054361382311102804.5916.602,821.19 15101021305461522173121404.4816.601,421.08 16101021305461439938075839.7516.605,856.35

Dated this 24th day of November, 2022

Lorrie Bannerman Treasurer

Radisson hosts service of remembrance

By Lorraine Olinyk Correspondent

Remembrance Day ser vice in Radisson was held in the St. Paul Lutheran

Church with a good turnout for the event. Ushers were John and Maureen Kindt with Susan Rothenburger pianist. The service was led by Pastor Bruce Ehlert

POSTPONEMENT OF TENDER

The Town of Radisson is now accepting tenders on PT LOT 9-11 BLOCK 02 PLAN G1466 also known as the Tweedsmuir Hall. Sold as is, where is, with no liens or encumbrances.

Submit all sealed tenders with plans of use to the drop off box of the Town Office, located at 329 Main Street,or mail to P.O. Box 69 Radisson, Saskatchewan S0K 3L0.

Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Closing date: December 20, 2022.

Jeannine Poulin Assistant Administrator Town of Radisson

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Career Opportunity

with his homily relevant to Remembrance Day. He spoke about remembering, being thankful for what we have and being hopeful for the future.

Scripture readers were Grace Schensney and Miriam Loessin and the honour roll was read by Randy Hosegood. Wreaths were laid by Kim Baker for the veterans, Sgt. Little and Cst. Kwan for the RCMP, Bruce Flath for serving peace officers (his son is with Saskatoon Police Ser vice), Scott Currie for town of Radisson, Dave Amson for RM of Great Bend, Chief Nathan Halischuk for Radisson Fire and Res cue and Logan Rookes for students.

A lunch was enjoyed after the service with lots of great food prepared and

donated by the community. Thanks to St. Paul Luther an Church for providing their sanctuary for the ser vice and to all those who participated.

Other events upcoming in Radisson are the seniors’ club pancake breakfast Nov. 26 in the Goodrich Centre from 9 to 11 a.m. to which everyone is wel come. There is a Christmas craft and bake sale in the Goodrich Centre Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Music night is Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. At a Nov. 9 music night, the Hamp orchestra were in attendance and there was a full house to listen to old-time music.

Borden Friendship Club held their first bingo of the season Nov, 16 with only 13 out to play. Winning cash were Mel Brooke (three), Jim Olinyk (two), Sandra Long (two), Ed Rawlyk and Joyce Olzewski (two). Lunch was brought by Bev Hrynuik and callers were Gary Palmer and helper Ron Tumbach. The De cember bingo for hams and turkeys will be on Friday,

Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. (change of day for this month only) then in January will go back to the third Wednes day, Jan. 18. Everybody is welcome to attend. Up coming for the Friendship Club in November are Kaiser night Dec. 23 at 7 p.m., potluck supper Nov. 24 with Don Balzer enter taining, invitation to May mont Dec. 7 and the local Christmas supper Dec. 8, with the Penner family en tertaining.

Events happening in Borden include the farm ers market Christmas sale in the Borden Com munity Centre Saturday, Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are 30 vendors booked. There is no ad mittance charge and door prizes will be given out. Grad 2023 will be serv ing lunch in the Friend ship Club Room, so every one come out and do your Christmas shopping early and get your baking for the holidays.

There will be special lo cal musicians at the Borden Care Home on Tuesday,

Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. and the Lion’s Festival of Music is slated for Sunday, Dec.4 at 7 p.m. in the community centre with lunch to follow.

Thursday night jam ses sions have started up again with the first one held Nov. 17 in the Senior’s Room and the next on will be Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.

Elected as councillor for Division 6 in the RM of Great Bend No. 405 was James Usselman de feating Don Wirchenko. Other councillors are Dave Amson, Gary Nickel, Ian Hosegood, Brett Larsen and Elizabeth Torrens. In the office temporarily is Diane Tracksell and, with the resignation of reeve Kim Maxwell, a new reeve will have to be appointed or elected in the upcoming future.

A mitten tree is being set up in Affinity Credit Union in Borden and at Speers United Church, accepting mitts, scarves, toques and other winter wear, which will be do nated to the needy in Sas katoon by Christmas.

Hafford Co-op is hiring a Team Member/Driver at our Agro Center in Hafford, Saskatchewan.

Who we are:

Co-op does business differently. As a co-operative, we believe in working together to serve Western Canadians, delivering profits back to our communities and investing in sustainable growth

What you’ll do:

Responsible to carry out deliveries in a safe, timely and efficient manner while providing exceptional customer service to all Co-op customers and employees.

• Complete daily Truck/Trailer inspections & maintenance.

• Operate equipment in a safe and lawful manner.

• Transport and handle Dangerous Goods, Feed Products & Ag Equipment.

• Maintain a delivery schedule and ensure timely delivery of products.

• Deliver products according to the customer’s desire, while ensuring a high level of safety.

• Assist with Instore & Shop Duties when not on the Delivery Unit.

• Other Duties as assigned.

Why it matters:

Our team provides a range of products and services to support our member-owners.Through the work that we do, we help to build, fuel, feed and grow Western Canadian communities together.

Who you are:

You are looking for a career in Customer Serviceand:

• You have a Grade 12 diploma

• You have a 3A or 1A License.

• Experience in handling Dangerous Goods.

• Experience in loading/unloading, handling and transport of Materials.

• You’re honest and trustworthy, are results-oriented and strive to be the best in what you do.

• You believe in building relationships and collaborating to deliver solutions that matter most, and you recognize the value that different perspectives bring to meet shared objectives.

Training can be made available for the right Candidate

Our Team Members receive competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package and an employer-contributed pension plan. We encourage our Team Members to take advantage of learning opportunities, to grow and develop and to foster a culture of teamwork and innovation.

At Co-op, we embrace diversity and inclusion, and we’re working to create a workplace that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We support and provide an environment that allows all to bring their whole selves to work

Please note that safety-sensitive positions will require pre-employment alcohol and substance testing

Apply In store by January 31st, 2023 or contact us at haffordcoop@littleloon.ca for more information

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected to continue in the recruitment process will be contacted

Baljennie News

Festival of trees begins Nov. 25 at WDM

By Dorothy M. Mills Correspondent

The Western Develop ment Museum in North Battleford has been a busy beehive, getting the village lit up and decorated. The Indigenous people have also set up a new display beside their teepees. The displays will open to the public for drive through viewing Dec. 1. There will be a charge per vehicle.

Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, the Battlefords Union Hospi tal Foundation Festival of Trees will be held at the museum. Opening night will give visitors an op portunity to view the trees, wreaths and other attrac

tions. Children can visit Santa that day and have photos taken.

Nov. 26 will feature a Royal Family Garden Par ty and Nov. 26 will be se niors’ day with entertain ment and refreshments. All seniors are invited to come out and join the Christmas fun.

Nov. 30 will be Black Tie Bingo plus many other activities.

There will be an entry fee each day. The funds got to a special ceiling lift tracking system from pal liative care at Battleford Union Hospital.

BUH Foundation is cel ebrating their 28th festival of trees and the 12th year

with Gold Eagle Casino as main sponsor of the event.

We welcome new ten ants to Battlefords West Place. Gordon and Glenda Parkinson recently moved in.Friday, Nov. 11 a tur key supper was held in the common room for all the tenants. Some residents were engaged with other commitments and not able to be there.

Nov. 19, the common room hosted a 61st wed ding anniversary celebra tion for Denise and Sonja Wilkinson. Due to COVID restrictions in 2021, their celebration was delayed a year. The Wilkinsons moved to the apartments from Hanna, Alta.

Participating in a Remembrance Day service in Radisson: front row - Lisa Rascher, Grace Schnsney, Sgt. C. Little, Murray Mikituk (retired reservist), Kim Baker (retired. navy), G. Maxwell (retired RCMP), Cst. O. Kwan, Miriam Loessin, Susan Rothernburger; back row - Dave Amson, Randy Hosegood, Bruce Flath, Nathan Halischuk, Logan Rookes and Pastor Bruce Ehlert. | Photo submitted

In the story of Robin Hood, Robin meets a man named Little John, but Lit tle John is the opposite of little. Little John is seven feet tall, large-limbed and fearsome to behold in the flesh.

In the Bible, there is a prophet named Jonah. Jonah means a dove, a bird of gentleness and peace. Yet, there was no peace ful obedience with Jonah when God’s word came to him. God wanted Jonah to deliver a message to the people of Nineveh. Yet, Jonah refused to go to Nineveh, as God told him.

Instead, Jonah boarded a ship for Tarshish. So, God sent a violent storm to teach Jonah compliance.

Gusting wind and crash

By Raymond Maher www.accordingtoed.com

According to Ed raymaher085@gmail.com

ing sea seemed sure to break the vessel Jonah was traveling on in two. Sailors threw cargo overboard to lighten the load. Afraid, they each cried to their own God for help, but the storm grew greater.

The sailors drew lots to see who was causing their calamity. The lot fell on Jonah. They asked Him,

Jonah answered, “I am a Hebrew, and I wor ship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and land. Pick me up and throw me into the sea, and

it will become calm. It is my fault that this storm has come upon you.”

Instead, they tried to row the ship back to land. The sea grew wilder.

The name, Little John, did not mean little eighbourly N Advice

So, in desperation, as a sacrifice to the raging sea, they tossed Jonah into the waves, and they grew calm.

But the Lord provided for Jonah in the sea. He gave a great fish to swal low his run-away prophet. Inside the fish, Jonah stayed for three days and nights. Jonah’s life was ebbing away in the fish as he prayed to God, thank ing and vowing to make his ways good. Finally, Jonah acknowledged that salvation comes from God, and the Lord, had the fish

vomit Jonah out onto dry land.

God called Jonah again to go to Nineveh to deliver His word to the city. Jonah announced there, “Forty more days, and Nineveh will be overturned.” Mi raculously, the Ninevites believed God’s word. They declared a fast from the greatest to the least. They did not eat or drink. Ev eryone called urgently on God while giving up evil and violent ways, hoping for the Lord’s compassion. The Lord saw their re pentance and spared them from destruction.

Jonah sat outside Nineveh, wanting Israel’s old enemy doomed, and God left Jonah stewing in his anger at Himself for

being gracious and com passionate to the Ninevites, who repented at His word.

God asked Jonah, “Have you any right to be angry?” Jonah felt angry, that God was gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. Jo nah ran away the first time because he knew if he took God’s word to Nineveh, people might repent, and God would forgive them.

Jonah was angry that God spared Israel’s enemy. Did he have any right to be angry? Do you get mad at God for forgiving your enemies when they repent before Him?

Pastor Melvin Bartley

“What have you done? Are you responsible for all this trouble upon us? You told us that you are running away from your God. Why? Who is your God?”

Maidstone and District News: Local inductees remembered

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

Christine Pike was among the guests at the celebration of the 50th an niversary of the Saskatch ewan Agricultural Hall of Fame on Nov. 12, held in the World Trade Centre in Saskatoon. Guests were piped in by the Royal Ca nadian Legion, Saskatoon Branch Pipes and Drums, and were presented to Lt.Gov. Russell Mirasty who had a long career in the RCMP.

Six new members were inducted into the hall of fame. All portraits of 50 years of inductees can be seen at the Western Devel opment Museum, Saska toon. In his address for the event, Mirasty emphasized agriculture is still the main business of Saskatchewan. He ended with a quote from Queen Elizabeth II on working together and said he looked forward to his first formal meeting with King Charles III.

Christine Pike was in vited to represent three for mer inductees. J.H. Wesson was inducted in 1973. A longstanding Wheat Pool president, he was called “the voice of agriculture.”

For his long service and

straight-forward way and commitment, he was made a member of the Order of the British Empire, re ceived an honorary Doctor of Laws from the Universi ty of Saskatchewan, plus a lake in Northern Saskatch ewan and a street in Regina were named after him. A plaque was placed on the original homestead by the people of the RM of Eldon.

Bill Lamont and Eileen (Pike) Lamont were in ducted in 2020. With cows from the Lindsay Lineback one-of-a-kind herd created by Mary Lindsay and their own Black Angus bulls, they developed the beef breed they named Speckle Park, known for exception ably tasty beef. The first married couple inducted, they were also given a Life time Achievement Award by the Saskatchewan Cat tlemen’s Association. It was a proud occasion for those who were present to celebrate Saskatchewan’s many-faceted agricultural heritage and to honour past and present inductees in the Hall of Fame. (submit ted by Christine Pike)

Maidstone Museum board held their monthly meeting Nov. 21 with six members present. Reports were given on Halloween

activities, grounds mainte nance and receipt of arti facts. a Winter Fun Fest is on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 2 to 5 p.m. Enjoy festive decorations and music, a sliding hill (bring crazy carpets or cardboard only please), gingerbread scav enger hunt, fire pit and refreshments (hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee and a sweet treat). Fireworks will light up the sky at the end of the day. Plans were made for the board’s annu al supper and gift exchange in January. Next meeting will be Monday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. at the museum.

Maidstone Community Health Committee’s Festi val of Trees is an enchant ing place to be this week with the last days being Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Get into the holly jolly spirit and bid on the many gorgeous items. The com mittee thanks Maidstone High School Grade 12 class for helping set up as well as all other volunteers and donors.

The Chamber of Com merce Moonlight Mad ness is Friday, Dec. 2 with several businesses offering special deals and stay ing open late. Take in the farmers market at the Le

gion Hall, turkey shoot at the bowling alley at 3 p.m., refreshments at the United Church 5 to 7:30 p.m., tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. outside the arena with carolling till 6:45 p.m., fol lowed by Santa’s visit at the Legion Hall. Hockey fans can head back to the arena where Maidstone Senior Jets are hosting Glaslyn North Stars with puck drop at 8 p.m. Watch for the booklet describing activities and specials to be distributed this week.

Maidstone UCW is again hosting their Winter Wear Tree and invite you to share the warmth. Bring mittens, gloves, socks and scarves to the United Church, give to any UCW member or call Joyce Weston 306-893-2576. All donations will be shared locally. Come in to the CE Wing on Dec. 2 to enjoy a hot dog, dessert and bev erage from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Church services continue to be the second and fourth Sundays each month. (sub mitted by Joyce Weston)

Tis the season and CIBC is again collecting for the food bank. Bring non-perishable food items, bathroom necessities, new/ gently used toys or mon etary donations into our

branch until Dec. 20. All donations are distributed locally.

Lloydminster Learning Council has a holiday door decorating contest open until Dec. 24 to all resi dents in their service area including our communi ties. Send a picture of your festively adorned door to pc@lloydlearningcouncil.

A photograph of Forest Bank Church taken in star

light by our amazing local photographer, Holly Flem ing, is featured in the 2023 calendar of the Anglican Church of Canada. Congrat ulations. It’s a beauty, Holly.

Reminders: Sunday, Nov. 27 - public skating at Maidstone Arena 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 3 -Kin Club’s “A Not So Si lent Night” cocktails, din ner, comedian and dance 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Supporting Community

Unity Composite High School continues to commit to their community with a donation to the local food bank as a result of their vegetable sale fundraiser, packaged and delivered by UCHS senior girls’ volleyball team. | Photo courtesy Vicki Orobko