Shellbrook Chronicle January 27th

Shellbrook www.shellbrookchronicle.com VOLUME 101

Chronicle

The Voice Of The Parkland Since 1912 SHELLBROOK, SASKATCHEWAN

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2012

PMR #40007604 No. 4

E & B Lumber moves into new home

Better customer service and greater efficiency pushed brothers Dave and Rod Kalyn to build their new E & B Lumber location.

The company, which operated out of the old building since 1982, moved out of their old facility and into a brand new one in early January.

“Our volumes have been increasing over the last 30 years and as you get progressively larger with more staff, more people, you eventually outgrow your infrastructure,” said Dave.

The new store located on an eight acre lot at 511 Service Road East features more than 20,000 square feet of indoor storage and retail space.

The new shop makes a successful business more efficient as all of their product is now located at one site. After out growing their previous facility years ago, the company had to get creative with their storage solutions. Roof trusses were often stored on a lot at the corner of Main Street and 7th Avenue while windows were stored in semi trailers on a lot on Railway Avenue. If the trailers filled up, it wasn’t unusual for the brothers to fill their garages with whatever needed storing.

Their previous location was roughly 4,200 square feet in the main building while they rented an adjacent 4,000 square foot storage building.

With the move, the days of Dave and Rod sharing an office that doubled as a lunch room are over. The new location contains roughly 5,000 square feet of office and retail space including a board room and lunch room.

The new location also includes the offices of R & D Tax Service.

The Kalyn family’s involvement in the business began in 1976 when their father Mike purchased E & B Lumber in Prince Albert. A satellite store was opened in Shellbrook in 1980 under the management of their mother Elsie Kalyn.

This eventually became the company’s flagship when the Prince Albert store was sold in 1986 to M & M Building Supplies. At that time, Dave and Rod moved out to Shellbrook and took over operation of the business.

“Right from the start, this community has been great to us,” said Dave.

Both brothers have lived and worked in the community ever since.

Dave and Rod acquired their dad’s shares in the business when Mike passed away in 1988.

With the additional space, the company can now take better advantage of limited time offers and stock up while the prices are good.

Continued on page 10

Brothers Rod and Dave Kalyn flank their mother Elsie Kalyn behind the front counter of their new storefront at 511 Service East.

Prairie Women on Snowmobiles set to ride through region Feb 1 The Prairie Women on Snowmobiles (PWOS) will be hitting the trails once again January 27 through February 3 on an 1,800 km trek and collecting money for breast cancer along the way.

The riders will roar through Shellbrook on the second half of their tour February 1 on a day that will start in Christopher Lake.

It is anticipated that the tour will stop in Shellbrook for coffee just before 10 a.m. at the Shellbrook Senior’s Hall.

From there, the crew will be riding up to Big River for lunch at the Community Hall before making a stop in Chitek Lake and ending their day in Meadow Lake.

As they head out for this year’s mission, PWOS President Carol McKnight said that snow conditions are a big con-

cern.

She anticipates that if conditions remain the same, the snowmobiles will likely be trailered through the whole first day and at various points during the tour as areas in southern Saskatchewan as well as the Meadow Lake area have very little snow.

“Unless the good Lord blesses the province with some snow,” said McKnight.

She recalls a mission a few years back when a lack of snow in the Shellbrook area drove sleds off of the trails and onto the trailer, which the riders rode down Main Street.

That scenario isn’t likely to repeat in this region this year with decent amounts of snow fall.

This year the tour kicks off in Humboldt January 27 and meanders through the province until it wraps up in Warman February 3.

PWOS has contributed 100% of the funds raised in the past eleven Missions for research raising more than $1.6 million to date.

Each Mission consists of a group of 10 volunteer snowmobilers who travel across Saskatchewan, passing through many cities and towns in eight days and covering approximately 1800 kms.

Volunteerism is the whole picture of PWOS women dedicating their time, resources, and sleds to help make the Missions so successful.

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Shellbrook Chronicle

January 27, 2012

RCMP warning public about ecstasy overdoses

RCMP in Saskatchewan are issuing a public safety warning in regards to several Ecstasy overdoses that have occurred in British Columbia and Alberta over

the last several months.

The BC Coroners Service confirms that paramethoxy-metamphetamine (PMMA) has been linked to five ecstasy-related

The Shellbrook Rink of Tom Spriggs, Murray Donahue, Art Spriggs and Keith Ranger had a rough time at Sasktel Northern Curling Playdowns in Nipawin over the weekend.

The Spriggs rink went 0 for 3 through the tournament with losses to Kevin Marsh, Mark Lane and Rick Picard.

Advancing from the

tournament are A winner Carl deConinck Smith, of Rosetown, B winners Kevin Marsh, of Saskatoon, and Scott Manners, of North Battleford and C winners Mark Lane, of Martensville and Darrell McKee of Saskatoon.

Those five representatives will move onto the Provincial Men’s Tankard in Assiniboia, February 1-5

Spriggs rink 0-3 at Northerns

Soup, Sandwich & Dessert Friday, February 10 Community Hall 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Adults: $7 ~ Pre-School Free

Sponsored by Shellbrook Royal Purple Everyone Welcome

Firearm Safety Hunter Education Registration Monday, January 30 7:00 - 8:00 p.m., Shellbrook Wildlife Fed. Clubhouse 12 Years and Up Sask. Health Card Required

Registration $40.00

For info Lyndon Tieszen 747-4351 or Phil Hamel 747-2180

deaths in BC in the past six months.

PMMA is a rare drug, and one which has not been routinely tested for in BC coroners’ investigations.

Following information from Alberta that PMMA was detected in relation to several deaths in that province, toxicology findings were reviewed in all 16 of B.C.’s 2011 ecstasyinvolved deaths and two

2012 deaths. PMMA was found in five cases. As with MDMA (ecstasy), there is no known safe dose of PMMA. Though PMMA has been detected in five cases, it is important to note that there were 13 other ecstasy-related deaths in the same period that did not involve PMMA. The finding of PMMA in five recent cases confirms the

danger that has always been associated with taking ecstasy: there is no guarantee of purity in a drug that is concocted for profit in a clandestine environment. Every ingestion of ecstasy is a risk.

There have also been deaths reported in the province of Alberta in relation to ecstacy. Illegal drugs are conveyed across Provincial and internation-

al borders and the public needs to be aware of the inherent dangers of Ecstasy and other illegal drugs.

No deaths have been reported in Saskatchewan to date. RCMP encourage parents to discuss this issue with their children and have included several links that may be helpful in this regard.

CPP changes may impact your retirement planning strategies The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is changing in phases that began last year and end in 2016. These changes, and your personal circumstances, could mean that you should rethink when to begin receiving your CPP pension.

Retirement has many meanings these days and 65 is no longer the ‘magic’ retirement age. The CPP changes are intended to provide more financial flexibility depending on each individual’s chosen retirement path and to encourage Canadians to work longer before starting to draw a government pension. That’s why the changes provide greater incentives for those willing to work past the traditional retirement age and significant reductions for those taking CPP benefits before age 65.

Generally, the new rules make it more attractive to delay receipt of your CPP benefits – but only if your health is good, your life expectancy above average, you have a reasonable income, and/or intend to continue working after 65. You should consider taking your CPP benefits earlier if your life expectancy is below average, you have an illness that doesn’t qualify for CPP disability, you have little or no other income,

or you are permanently unemployed.

There are other changes you should know about: • The work cessation rule has been eliminated. Now, starting at age 60, you can continue working and still receive CPP benefits. Under the old rules, once you began collecting CPP benefits, you stopped contributing to the plan.

Now, if you’re under 65, and working while receiving a CPP pension, you (and your employer) will have to continue making

CPP contributions that will increase your CPP benefits beginning in 2013. If you are 65-70 and work while receiving CPP benefits, you have the choice of not making any more contributions or continuing to make them, resulting in an increase in your CPP benefits in 2013.

• The earnings drop-out provision has been changed. Under the old rules, if you retired at age 65, you could drop out seven of your lowest earning years from age 18

to 65 when you were eligible to contribute to CPP. Now, that drop-out period increases to 7.5 years in 2012 and 8 years in 2014.

If you’re approaching retirement, you have a lot of financial decisions to make, including how to get the most out of the CPP changes for your situation.

Your professional advisor can help guide you down the right path to your best possible, and most financially stable, retirement.

KINETTES COOKIE WALK -- Members of the Shellbrook Kinette Club Tasha Cyr,Tamara Buckingham, Kim and EmmaLynn Lamotte, Renee Kyliuk, Michelle Dansereau and Karissa and Kayla Klaasen. before opening the doors on their annual Cookie Walk at the Shellbrook Legion Hall December 4. Through the day, the club sold tickets on Christmas gift basket with proceeds to go toward literacy initiatives at the Shellbrook Elementary School. This week, the club presented the check in the amount of $216.39 to the Shellbrook Elementary School Community Council. Proceeds from the Cookie Walk will be used to make another donation but a sum and project have yet to be determined.

12014MF00

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle

Elks slide by T-Birds into 3rd in FCHL The Shellbrook Elks got a win without even hitting the ice Saturday night.

The Beardys Blackhawks forfeited the game giving the Elks a 1-0 win in the record books.

The win, combined with Friday night’s victory over the Warman Wildcats, pushed the team past the Bruno T-Birds to gain sole possession of third place in the Fort Carlton Hockey League.

Elks 6 Warman 2 The Warman Wildcats drew first blood but couldn’t keep pace with

the Shellbrook Elks in their game Friday night in Warman.

Warman’s Dan Lind put his team on the scoreboard with 7:30 left in the first. Doug Harms put the Wildcats up by two early in the second before the Elks scored six unanswered goals through the next 18 minutes.

The Elks climbed back into the game with back to back powerplay goals from Aki Seitsonon 46 second apart, midway through the second.

Brock Fitch and Chris

Thompson scored less than a minute a part to give the Elks a 4-2 lead going into the third period.

Mark Walter gave his team a 6-2 lead early in the third with a regular strength goal and a short handed goal 2:40 a part.

The Elks were 2 for 9 on the powerplay while going a perfect 12 for 12 on the penalty kill.

Elks 3 Bruno 5 The Elks January 17 road match-up with the Bruno T-Birds turned out to be a case of too little, too late.

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

Our nation will be celebrating the to celebrate the past 60 years under Her Queen’s Diamond Jubilee - the 60th anni- Majesty’s reign, her dedicated service to versary of Her Majesty’s ascension to the our country, and the important role of the throne - on February 6th, 2012. In fact, Canadian Crown.”

This event provides a great opportuthe period February 6-12 has been designated as Diamond Jubilee Week. Celebra- nity to learn more about Her Royal Hightions will continue throughout the year, ness. Those wishing to learn more about with tributes being paid to Her Majesty the Diamond Jubilee should visit http:// where on Commonwealth Day this March 12th, www.diamondjubilee.pch.gc.ca there are photos, Victoria Day this videos, educaMay 21st and tional materials, Canada Day this a compendium of July 1st. information and Funding has even a section been provided to Desnethé-Missinippifor Canadians to community acChurchill River send greetings to tivities across the Queen Elizabeth country celebratII on this special ing this special occasion. event to ensure a Sixty thousand Diamond Jubilee medproper celebration from coast to coast.

“Our Government received a strong als will be awarded to Canadians this year, mandate to support and celebrate im- to celebrate significant contributions made portant milestones for Canada, like the by Canadians to their communities. If you Diamond Jubilee,” said the Honourable know someone you believe deserves to be James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heri- honoured with one of these medals, please tage and Official Languages, “The only contact me using the information below.

As always, I look forward to your letother time Canada celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of a reigning sovereign was ters, e-mails and calls. Write me at: Rob for Queen Victoria in 1897. By support- Clarke MP, House of Commons, 502 Jusing this most historic and significant anni- tice Building, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0A6. versary, our Government is delivering on I hope you will find time to visit my webits commitment to reinforce our heritage site http://www.robclarkemp.ca To conthrough active celebration of our institu- tact me via e-mail use clarkr@parl.gc.ca tions that define who we are as Canadians. or call my constituency office toll-free at “For 60 years, Her Majesty has ex- 1-866-400-2334.

Rob Clarke MP emplified the true meaning of public Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River service,” said Minister Moore. “Today, I invite Canadians to start planning for the Diamond Jubilee. This is an opportunity

Rob Clark

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After falling behind 5-1 by the third period, the Elks offence finally came to life in the final two minutes of the game.

The two teams played scoreless through most of the first until Bruno’s Brett Parker found the net with 3:26 left in the period.

Korey Diehl tied the score midway through the second before a three goal barrage for the T-Birds sunk the Elks.

Blake Huber scored a pair and Luke Strueby scored a single in a six

minute span to end the second period to give the T-Birds a 4-1 lead.

Paul Strueby scored at the 17:13 mark of the third and it would take the Elks another 15 minutes to get back on the scoreboard.

Chris Thompson scored with 1:59 left in the game while Ryan Gareau scored 1:44 later to bring the Elks to within two goals but they ran out of time.

The Elks’ wrap up their regular season schedule with a pair of home games as they host the

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Prairie Outlaws Sunday, January 29 and the Tisdale Ramblers Tuesday January 31 The Elks open up the first round of the SHA provincial draw Saturday January 28 in Meadowlake. Game two of the serious will take place in Shellbrook on Friday February 3 while game three, if necessary, will take place Saturday February 4.

Puck drop for all three games is 8:30 p.m.

Did you know...

Saskatchewan was the first province to have air ambulance service.

In 1928 Saskatchewan was the richest province with an income per capita of $478, however by 1933 it was the poorest with a per capita of only $135.

Catriona LeMay Doan, 2000 Olympic gold medal winner for women’s speed skating was born in Saskatoon.

In 2006 Saskatchewan had 43 percent of Canada’s 111 million acres of cultivated land. In 2010 there were 32,010 farms Saskatchewan was the first in Canada to finish their portion of the TransCanada Highway on August 21, 1957.

In 1946, Tommy Douglas’ Co-operative Commonwealth Federation government in Saskatchewan passed the Saskatchewan Hospitalization Act, which guaranteed free hospital care for much of the population. Douglas had hoped to provide universal health care, but the province did not have the money.

484 NHLers got their start in Saskatchewan, that’s more than any other province in Canada. To name a few from this area - Hugh Coflin, Blaine Lake played 1951 for Chicago Black Hawks; Blake Comeau, Meadow Lake played 2006-07 for New York Islanders; D.J. King, Meadow Lake, played 2007-12 for St. Louis Blues; Dwight King, Meadow Lake played 2010-11 for LA Kings.

In 1962, Saskatchewan was the first province to have Medicare.

In the 1940s potash deposits were discovered in Saskatchewan by accident. Drilling and exploration for petroleum was being done at the time.

PUBLIC NOTICE Rural Municipality of Big River, No. 555 Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the RM of Big River, No. 555 intends to adopt a bylaw pursuant to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 6/99.

It is proposed to amend the RM of Big River No.555 Zoning Bylaw as follows: 1. Add to the table of contents and a new section to Bylaw 6/99 to reference to the “H” Holding Symbol.

2. The Zoning District Map, referred to in Section 5.2 of Bylaw 6/99 is to be amended to rezone specific lands in the E½ Section 34-55-08-W3 as follows: a. From AR-Agriculture Resource District to CR – Country Residential District Lots 3 and 4, Block 1, shown on the attached drawing within the cross-hatched area. b. From AR – Agriculture Resource District to RR “H” – Resort Residential “H” District the land shown on the attached drawing within the shaded area surrounded by a bold dashed line. c. From AR – Agriculture Resource District to CR “H” – Country Residential “H” District the land shown on the attached drawing the area surrounded by a solid bold line.

The areas being rezoned are shown in bold outlines on the sketch which appears as part of this notice.

Purpose The intent of the bylaw is as follows: 1. To provide for an area to be used for Country Residential and Resort Residential development within the E½-34-55-08-W3. The affected land is generally known as the ½ section south of the former WE Greenhouse.

Bylaw Inspection The bylaw may be inspected by any interest person, at the RM Office on any judicial day between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Copies are available to persons at a cost of $1.00.

Public Hearing Representations respecting the bylaw will be considered by the Council on the 8th day of February, 2012, in the Board Room at the Big River Community Centre at 606 First Street North, Big River, SK at 3:00 pm. Council shall hear any person or group of persons or person acting on their behalf, who wish to make a representation.

Issued at Big River this 20th day of January, 2012.

Donna Tymiak Rural Municipal Administrator

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Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

Opinions Brad Dupuis News Editor

Scammy Scammerson I think we are moving closer and closer to becoming a society that doesn’t trust anybody.

I received a call a few weeks back from a computer technician who was very concerned about some “virus” they had detected on my computer. I flew off the handle, called the woman, stating she was from the Microsoft tech department, a few choice names and hung up.

I’d heard about this particular scam that was making its rounds and was more than happy to express my unbridled hatred for her and anyone else that would try to pull something like this on an unsuspecting public.

The scam begins with the call from a person from an official sounding office from a company you may recognize the name of like Microsoft or Dell.

The “technician” on the other end of the phone tells the potential victim that their computer requires some type of fix due to error codes or a virus.

The scam artist then offers to make the fix and directs the would-be victim through a process which ultimately installs a virus on the computer. The virus provides the scam artists with remote access to the machine where they can collect your personal information like date of birth, social insurance number and bank account and credit card numbers.

On top of it all, the caller has also been known to ask for a credit card number to charge for the service.

Not only do they get to sift through your personal data unchecked but they also get a bonus credit card number to play with for their trouble.

First of all, reputable companies don’t call you when there is a problem with your computer because they couldn’t possibly know that there was a problem.

It is tough enough to get through to tech support in a reasonable time frame when you do have a problem with your computer or any other tech device so them calling you, even if they did have access to your system, so them paying you a courtesy call is unlikely.

A member of my family, knowing full well that it was a scam, dragged the conversation on and on claiming to be unable to get to his computer due to a physical disability. The scam artist tried to help brainstorm ideas of who could come around and help him get to the computer so that he could make the “necessary” fixes to eliminate the “virus.” Eventually, they exhausted all ideas and said that they would call back another time. They never did.

Sadly when my turn came around I wasn’t creative enough to play along and waste as much of their time as I could. Excessive use of the hold button on my phone would have been great.

Those perpetrating these scams are counting on exploiting a potential victims’ lack of knowledge in an area to take advantage of the situation.

Education is the best way to keep yourself from getting scammed. That isn’t to say that you have to learn everything about everything but to simply be aware of the scams themselves. If you find yourself in a situation where you are out of your depth and a mystery caller or a salesperson is pressuring you to move, take a breather, ask them if you can call them back and do an internet search on what it is they are selling.

These days, a little bit of paranoia is a good thing.

The Paul Martin Commentary Here’s a way to get ahead in the work place – hide crucial information.

Apparently this issue has grown to the point where it’s worthy of research by those who study workplace interaction.

The work of four Canadian academics was recently written up in an American on-line publication where the issue of ‘Knowledge Hiding” was singled out as a growing problem in the workplace.

The research – which looked at workers at companies in Canada around the world – said knowledge sharing is increasingly turning into knowledge hiding for a variety of reasons. But chief among them are distrust and retaliation.

In some cases the proponents hide information from colleagues to protect either themselves of the company simply because they don’t trust their co-workers. At other times it is to undermine or retaliate against a co-worker.

The end result is that companies don’t see the kind of innovation or performance they expect because collaboration, one of the keys to creativity, is sharply reduced as knowledge is not transferred among team members or business units. *** It is the newest benefit employers are offering their workers.

There are three distinct generations in the workplace these days and each has a different idea on what the ideal benefit package might be.

That’s an important issue for employers looking to acquire new talent, especially since the leading edge of the baby boom generation has now hit retirement age.

One offering that seems to appeal to the most recent arrivals in the workplace – Generation Y – is time off without pay.

That’s a concept identified by American psychologist

Paul Martin

Dr. Gustavo Grodnitzki. In a recent Saskatchewan tour he told business leaders – a group made up primarily of boomers – that the next wave of workers has a completely different view of the workplace.

They see it as a place to make friends – so being on Facebook during working hours seems OK to them.

They also see work and the rest of their life as one thing so they work their own schedules. And they like time off so employers who add time off without pay or penalty to their benefit packages will find themselves a magnet for this next generation. *** There is, by definition, no replacement for a first impression.

Just about all of us, at some point or another, are faced with that daunting assignment of making a presentation in public.

Whether its performing for a job interview or delivering a speech to hundreds of conference delegates, the basic principles of making a powerful impression are the same.

Mikki Williams, a Chicago-based professional speaker who was short-listed as a potential personality for the new Oprah TV network, offers any presenter a few tips on how to improve.

First of all, she explains, don’t let the butterflies roost. All of us get nervous before a presentation and brooding over the situation or going over the material one more time will just make it worse. She suggests mingling with the audience as an alternative.

And here’s another basic rule that seems to apply to a lot of things in life. Keep it simple. Most speakers try to cram too much into a presentation.

Three primary themes are more than enough and the best way to deliver your message is by telling personal stories to explain your messages.

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle

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Viewpoint Wall gov’t bearing weight of health system After years of feasting off problems of past NDP governments in health care, could it be that Premier Brad Wall is now starting to feel the same frustration?

The still-relatively young Saskatchewan Party government has had a surprisingly easy ride when it comes to health care delivery. Yes, there has been the occasional dust like the problems at the Wakaw Hospital or the decision by the Sun Country Health District to cut beds in Wawota. Most recently, Shellbrook is experiencing a similar doctor/hospital emergency service issue. And horror stories are starting to emerge out of the big city emergency rooms in both Saskatoon and Regina as a result of unprecedented overcrowding.

But at least until recently, the upswing in oil, gas and potash revenue in Saskatchewan has simply allowed the government to throw money at most any problem.

Nurses claim to be overworked and underpaid? Well, while the Roy Romanow NDP government had to lay off nurses in the early 1990s and legislate them back to work in the spring of 1999, the Sask.

Party government was able to hire more

nurses and give them 35-per-cent-plus raises in the spring of 2008.

And while one might question the NDP government’s priorities in 1993 that led to closure of 52 rural hospitals and the Plains Health Centre on the outskirts of Regina, no one can questions that it was the massive deficits run up by the previous Grant Devine Progressive Conservative governments of the 1980s that forced decisions to be made.

Fourteen straight balanced NDP government budgets (at least, on the general revenue side) meant that the arriving Sask. Party government were faced with no such dilemma. In fact, the Sask. Party is even building 13 more hospitals and nursing homes in rural Saskatchewan and plans are now in the works to build hospital replacement facilities in North Battleford, Moose Jaw and the new Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon.

Of course, it hasn’t just been good luck. Credit the Wall government for at least making some of its own good fortune.

The government is on track to spend $4.46 billion on health care this year, which would not only represent the rarity of the health department coming in on budget but will also represent a decrease in health spending not seen since the Romanow government cuts in 1993.

Some of this has to simply do with a less capital construction spending this year, but a lot of it has to do with being smarter and less philosophically tied to how the health care system is suppose to operate.

By viewing hospital patients as customers and by introducing what is called the LEAN efficiency program, cost-savings are being found. And more to the point, surgical waiting lists are going

Murray Mandryk

down with the advent of private surgical clinics paid for by the public system _ something that wasn’t considered by past NDP governments.

But for all the economic advantages the Wall government has enjoyed and for all the wise moves it’s made to improve health care delivery, it now seems to be facing the inevitability that all governments face. Sooner or later, the crushing demand of the health system, weigh a government down.

Some of that weight is coming from Ottawa, which has served notice that federal health transfers (now increasing six per cent each year) will be limited to the rate of economic growth.

Much of this weight is the natural _ an aging population, a large First Nations population with high demands, on-ongoing demands for premium service in all corners of the province and overall population growth.

But like all governments before them, the Sask. Party may finally be realizing how difficult it is to feed the insatiable appetite of the health system.

Your Two Cents “Serving the Communities of Shellbrook, Canwood, Debden, Big River, Parkside, Leask, Marcelin, Blaine Lake, Holbein, Mont Nebo, Mayview” A Division of Pepperfram Limited Publications Mail Registration #07621

Published Every Friday Morning, P.O. Box 10, Shellbrook, Sask. S0J 2E0 Phone 747-2442 or Fax 747-3000 Editorial: chnews@shellbrookchronicle.com Advertising chads@shellbrookchronicle.com C. J. Pepper, Publisher, Brad Dupuis, Editor, chnews@shellbrookchronicle.com Madeleine Wrigley, Advertising Sales, chroniclesales@sasktel.net Kathleen Nording, Composition/Pagination, chnews@shellbrookchronicle.com Patt Ganton, Composition/Pagination, chads@shellbrookchronicle.com Cheryl Mason, Bookkeeping/Reception, Office Hours: Monday.-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. & 1 to 4 p.m.; Advertising Deadline: Mondays at 5:00 p.m. website:www.shellrookchronicle.com The contents of the Shellbrook Chronicle are protected by Copyright Reproduction of any material must be done so with expressed permission of the publisher.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: In the interest of readers of this newspaper, we will publish opinions of our readers. Letters To The Editor are most welcome; however, they must be signed. and include writer’s contact information and will only be published with the writer’s name on it. Letters should be limited in length and be typed or clearly written. We reserve the right to edit letters depending on available space.

Member of

Harper playing chicken Editor: Ever play chicken with a freight train, rolling down the track at top speed, straight towards you as the locomotive gets bigger and scarier every passing second? Maybe a bunch of you got together for that thrill?

It happens, often with tragic results. Inevitable for the suicidal, the too slow or those too stupid or drunk to recognize the impending disaster?

Mr. Harpers governments in Durban and Stockholm has placed itself squarely in that growing light marching steadily towards impending disaster and dragging the rest of the world screaming and kicking with him.

Manmade environmental degradation to the point of collapse of Earths ability to sustain human life is not a fairy tale; it is inevitable if we continue our present practices of consumption.

One sparkling clear example is the tar sands which is presently the greatest environmen-

tal disaster on Earth and mutating rapidly. The exposed tailing ponds swallow up any life that touches them in grotesque agony.

The longer story that will kill our future generations is in the tar sands release of diabolical substances into the ecosystem to poison every aspect of our water, air and the land for centuries to come.

Quarterly financial reports cannot consider centuries to come.

Environmental respect reduces financial return and thus inhibits Harpers definition of growth.

Increasing cash flow from non-renewable resources is the sole and misguided definition of progress methodically pursued by Mr. Harper.

He cannot recognize suffering on reserves like Attawapiskat or even the homeless in Regina in any other terms but financial and of course the impact to his power structure.

If the world’s definition of human progress could in any conservable way

embrace environmental destruction then Mr. Harper would be a champion.

So you can trust his rhetoric again and follow him up that railway track in tunnel vision but I bet you will begin to see more wide angle as that locomotive comes thundering closer to you. If there is an

actual individual human quality of self preservation for future generations then growing numbers should be jumping off that track as they watch that locomotive roll over top of the folks in front of them.

Totooooooo.

Greg Chatterson, Fort Qu’Appelle

Governing behind a shroud of secrecy Dear Editor, The citizens’ organization Democracy Watch has noted that in Canada it is still effectively legal for a person like Karlheinz Schreiber to fundraise for and make secret donations to nomination race and party leadership candidates, to lobby and make secret deals with Cabinet ministers and government employees, and for everyone involved to be dishonest about their secret, unethical relationships. The current move by the Conservatives to hold parliamentary committee meetings behind closed doors is just one more example of a government that talks about open government but won’t practice it, and has certainly failed to close dozens of anti-democratic loopholes that still exist.

Larry Kazdan, Vancouver, B.C.

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Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

New year, new habit? – How about a farm management podcast?

Regina, Saskatchewan, January 20, 2012 – A new year is a good time to start a new habit, and Farm Credit Canada (FCC) suggests that regularly listening to a podcast is a good idea for Canadian producers. Canada’s leading provider of agriculture lending products and services now has a series of podcasts, entitled FCC Edge, adding to a variety of other online and in-person learning options for Canadian producers.

“A podcast is mobile friendly. Producers can access valuable information on the go,” says Lyn-

don Carlson, FCC Senior Vice-President of Marketing. “You can listen and learn in the tractor, barn, on the road or at home. It’s all about convenience and making the most of people’s time.”

According to the 2011 E-Business in Agriculture study conducted by Ipsos Forward Research, 38% of Canadian producers with $50,000 plus in revenues have listened or subscribed to an online audio podcast in the past 12 months for either personal use or farm related/farm business purposes. Twenty-five per cent have done so for farm

related/farm business purposes. The number rises to 48% for personal use and/ or farm related/farm business purposes (34% for farm related/farm business purposes) for those with revenues of $500,000 or more.

The 20-minute, FCC podcast produced bimonthly, is hosted by the familiar Kevin Stewart, longtime host on AgVision TV. “When we develop content, we look for topics that fuel possibilitythinking. So many of the very successful producers constantly put themselves

in a position to learn and be stretched, so we try to foster that. The topics range from discussions on business and technology, to inspiration and farm safety. Our goal is for the features and interviews to be relevant to Canadian agriculture right now,” says Stewart.

Topics have included: • seeking out the right mentors • managing computer files across all your devices • recognizing opportunities • reducing hearing loss on the farm • turning your to-do list

to a stop-doing list • five ways to bring out your inner leader • ten stupid things we do to break up our business • Google search tricks “FCC did some research about technology adoption by Canadian agricultural producers which showed that they are on par with other Canadians.

It’s this willingness to keep learning, to keep working toward making their businesses better that helps to set Canadian producers apart. Consumers’ access to safe, quality and convenient foods is a function

of innovations generated across the entire agri-food supply chain. For producers, access to information is key in sorting out the complexities of today’s industry,” says Jean-Philippe Gervais, FCC Senior Agriculture Economist.

To listen to FCC Edge, recently featured as the top New and Noteworthy podcast in the Apple® iTunes™ store, go to www.fcc.ca/edge. You can also subscribe to the Edge on iTunes. Watch for the next episode of FCC Edge in the January 20 edition of the FCC Express e-newsletter.

Return of Canadian beef to Korea a win for Canadian cattle producers Calgary, AB – The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) congratulates the Government of Canada on its achievement of restoring market access for Canadian beef in South Korea.

The process to restore

access for Canadian beef agreed to last June by the Canadian and South Korean governments has been successfully completed with the final approval letters from Korea received on January 20, 2012. With the receipt of these letters,

Canadian beef and beef products from cattle under 30 months of age can be exported to Korea immediately. The agreement was reached outside of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dispute launched

by Canada in 2009.

While Saskatchewan businesses continue to attract international investment and maximize global sales, the Government of Saskatchewan is working to expand opportunities in Europe.

“With so much global uncertainty, European investors are looking for stable and growing jurisdictions where they can

do business, and Saskatchewan has a unique story to tell with strong forecasted growth and a AAA credit rating,” Enterprise and Trade Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Many Saskatchewan farmers, manufacturers, miners and researchers depend on European markets, and strengthening ties with Europe will create more jobs

and opportunity here at home.”

While in Europe, Harrison met with BUSINESS EUROPE, an international organization composed of 41 European business associations, to encourage investment in Saskatchewan. Harrison also met with the global energy company GDF Suez. The trip concluded with executive meetings at Yara International headquarters in Oslo, Norway, to discuss the company’s continued interest in Saskatchewan’s fertilizer and agricultural industry.

Harrison also used the trip to Europe to advocate for a successful conclusion to the Canada-Europe Free Trade agreement negotiations. Before going to Europe, Harrison stopped in Ottawa to meet with federal Trade Minister Ed Fast and Canada’s chief negotiator Steve Verheul.

While in Europe, Harrison also met with Europe’s chief negotiator, Mauro Petriccione.

“Saskatchewan has one of the most trade-oriented economies in Canada and one of our key goals is to expand market access through international trade negotiation such as the free trade talks between Canada and Europe,” Harrison said. “A successful agreement would create new opportunities and jobs for Saskatchewan exporters and farmers.”

Province seeks to strengthen ties with Europe

CANWOOD CURLING CLUB ANNUAL BILLY SPIEL

Fri., Sat. & Sun., Feb. 3, 4, & 5 $120.00 per team, includes 4 dance tickets

$$$ CASH PRIZES $$$ Steak Supper - Friday Night $12 ~ 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Dance - Saturday Night - Midnight Lunch 8 pm to 10 pm ‘The Happy Wanderers’ 10:30 pm to 2 am ‘Dust ‘Til Dawn’ Dance Tickets ~ $10.

All minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

Phone Curling entries to: Lisa 468-2783 or Grant 468-2881

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The R.M. of Shellbrook No. 493 is looking for a

General Equipment Operator For seasonal employment (April to October).

Applicant should have Class 1A License or be willing to obtain same.

Send resumes to:

R.M. of Shellbrook No. 493 Box 250 Shellbrook Sk S0J 2E0 Or drop off at 71 Main St., Shellbrook, Sk. Application deadline is February 17, 2012 (only those applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted)

CCA President Travis Toews thanked Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz and International Trade Minister Ed Fast for their diligence on this file. Efforts are expected to continue in South Korea to recapture access for over-30-month beef as well, in line with World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) sciencebased guidelines.

“The return of safe, high-quality Canadian beef to South Korea after nearly a decade is a significant achievement and one that’s been a long time

coming,” Toews said.

“The CCA agreed to this process as an alternate solution to the WTO Dispute Panel report in order to get Canadian beef moving into South Korea more quickly. It was the right call and we thank Ministers Ritz and Fast for seeing this to a successful conclusion.”

The CCA monitored South Korea’s progress closely and was fully prepared to recommend the Government of Canada to request the WTO to issue its report should the process fail. Canada retains

the ability to resume the Panel should problems with the implementation emerge in the weeks ahead, but we expect that South Korea will resume its former position as a lucrative market for Canadian beef.

Canadian beef exports are estimated to be $30 million to Korea by 2015.

With Canadian beef once again headed for South Korea, the CCA is focussed on completing negotiations to establish a Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement.

PAPHR board approves tendering process for 60 bed facility in PA

At a special board meeting Monday, January 16, 2012 in Prince Albert, the Prince Albert Parkland Regional Health Authority board of directors approved the tender documents for a new, larger and more modern facility to replace the current Pineview Terrace Lodge.

“The board of directors and our staff are very excited about moving forward with the construction of the much needed new facility in Prince Albert,” said Gord Dobrowolsky, chairperson of the PAPHR board of directors.

“We appreciate the support from the many municipal governments who have committed funding for the local share of the project.” The new facility, which was originally announced in February 2009, will replace the existing Pineview Terrace Lodge long-term care facility.

The new facility will be located just west of the Victoria Hospital, and will include 60 long-term care beds with five “houses” for 12 residents. The new facility will be connected to the Victoria Hospital site via a tunnel, which will allow for access from the Regional Health Centre for services such as maintenance and laundry.

The project is expected to cost about $22.8 million, with 80 per cent of the project costs being provided by the provincial government through the Ministry of Health, and the remaining 20 per cent from local communities.

In addition to the project costs, the Region will fundraise to purchase equip-

ment and furnishings (estimated at about $400,000) that are not funded by the Ministry of Health. Where it is possible, existing equipment and furnishings will be moved to the new facility.

“We are looking forward to a new building where our staff, physicians and volunteers have the best possible environment for providing quality, safe and compassionate care for the people we serve,” said Dobrowolsky.

“This new facility will also provide more bed capacity in a home-like setting to address the number of people who require long-term care.” The tender documents have been approved by the Ministry of Health and will be issued Saturday, January 21.

This process should be complete by the end of February with the selection of the successful applicant to follow.

Construction is expected to begin this year, with a completion date sometime in 2014.

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January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle Page 7

Agriculture Farming going green with CleanFARMS The business of garbage, and the idea of protecting the environment is becoming an interesting one.

The idea of recycling is becoming a major public desire. People feel good about recycling, having the impression at least it is their small, direct, contribution to aiding old Mother Earth.

The idea of recycling is even becoming entrenched in the area of farming.

Recently the Government of Saskatchewan announced it was partnering with CleanFARMS to develop a way to manage on-farm plastic waste, such as bale wrap and grain bags.

The idea is to reduce the environmental footprint of farming in the province, and of course win some points since anything tied to reducing waste is seen as a positive by most people these days.

Tagging the term ‘environmentally positive’ to anything is good politics.

We see that in the world of retail where the sale of reusable cloth bags and similar efforts garner a lot of positive advertising.

“We know that farmers are more than willing to

participate in stewardship programs where they exist; they want to do the right thing. CleanFARMS currently operates a national empty pesticide container recycling program and an obsolete pesticide collection program, both of which have very high participation rates,” said Barry Friesen, general manager of CleanFARMS in a release.

The government of course sees it as a good step.

“We are pleased to see industry, government and the broader stakeholder community work together to develop a recycling program for farmers,” said Saskatchewan Environment Minister Dustin Duncan in the same release.

According to the release CleanFARMS recently did a study of the agricultural waste stewardship programs in the province. The research revealed that the most successful programs had government legislation mandating participation such as those to manage used oil, oil filters and their containers, tires, paint and electronics.

The Government of Saskatchewan has tasked

by Theresa Whalen Canadian Federation of Agriculture Farm Safety Consultant Hiring contractors who are not covered by your province’s worker’s compensation might save a little money but it could ruin your farm business.

Helping farmers and ranchers reduce the risks in their operations is the core message of the theme Plan • Farm • Safety, a three-year focus for the Canadian agricultural safety campaign. In 2010, the campaign promoted “Plan” with safety walkabouts and planning for safety. This year, the focus is on “Farm” including implementation, documentation and training. And in 2012, emphasis will be on “Safety” including assessment, improvement and further development of safety systems. More information on the campaign is available at www. planfarmsafety.ca .

Some farm operators mistakenly think that if

they hire services from an independent contractor or an occasional day worker, any follow-up safety or disability costs won’t be on their books. Wrong.

Here is why.

First you must distinguish between a selfemployed, independent contractor and someone who is your employee – even if only occasionally.

Typically, an independent contractor must meet all three of the following criteria: a) offer service to various clients; b) report to the government as a selfemployed business; and, c) own and operate his or her own equipment.

If workers‘ compensation coverage is required in the agriculture sector in your province, contractors who don’t meet all three criteria are automatically covered by their employer’s premiums – and that is you! Even if worker’s compensation coverage is not required and an injury occurs, the contractor could sue you.

Calvin Daniels On Agriculture

CleanFARMS with bringing together stakeholders to develop the framework for a program to recycle agricultural plastics such as bale wrap, twine and grain bags.

If you read between the lines, expect environmental fees to some farm products moving forward, and mandated recycling.

The question that needs to be answered is exactly what the environmental footprint of recycling is?

A farmer at Hyas, SK. has a pile of plastic from bale twine and grain bags.

What does it cost in fuel, tire wear, road maintenance, and similar costs to get that plastic from the farm to someplace which can actually recycle it into something useable?

It may appear the ‘right’ thing to do to recycle, but the collection system from farmers spread

across the entire province to a central location for reuse is a system that is automatically a costly one, and that assumes a user for the products in the province.

As has been the situation with cardboard in the past the user is not local.

At times it has meant the cardboard has to get as far as China to be utilized.

Does taking cardboard from Hyas to China to recycle it make sense?

Probably not if you started to put the actual costs to the equation rather

Hiring uninsured contractors exposes your farm to risk If your independent contractor meets the criteria and is a one-person operation, you should confirm that he does have the required worker’s compensation coverage or some other approved form of disability/liability insurance. You also should discuss and document your farm’s health and safety policies with the contractor and outline the contractor’s responsibilities for health and safety.

Furthermore, independent contractors may hire helpers. In that case, the contractor is an employer and must pay workers’ compensation premiums for those employees.

However, if you hire an independent contractor, it is still your responsibility to ensure that he or she is registered with the provincial workers’ compensation authority and that premiums for employees are in good standing.

Continued on page 8

12014DS01

than just doing it because we deem recycling automatically a good thing.

In the release Friesen stated, “Saskatchewan is an innovative province that is well positioned to become a leader in agricultural plastics recycling.

In many cases, the technology is already in place.

Bridon Corage, a highly successful twine manufacturer with a plant in the province, is currently making new twine out of used

twine.”

For anything designed to recycle farm plastics to make sense it has to have an end user in the province.

And, any plan should have some cost analysis associated with it.

Recycling must be good for the overall environment, not something we do just because we assume it’s a good thing.

TOP PRICES PAID For Feed Barley, Wheat, Oats,

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Page 8

Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

Livestock industry to benefit from research funding Today, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud and Member of Parliament Brad Trost (Saskatoon-Humboldt), on behalf of federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, announced $3.5 million in livestock and forage-related research funding from the Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund (ADF). This funding is being awarded to 26 livestock and forage-related research projects. This is the third highest amount of ADF research funding ever awarded for livestock and forage-related projects.

In addition, annual operational funding will continue to be provided from ADF to the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization ($300,000), the Prairie Swine Centre ($330,000) and the Western Beef Development Centre ($395,000).

“The livestock and forage sectors continue

to be a valuable part of our agriculture industry and provincial economy,” Bjornerud said. “This research funding will lead to long-term benefits for producers, who are continually looking at new innovations and technologies to meet a growing demand for their products.”

“Innovative solutions help make our livestock producers more competitive, which results in a stronger economy,” Trost said. “We’re pleased to continue to partner with the Government of Saskatchewan to support these types of projects.”

Livestock and foragerelated research projects receiving funding in 2012 include: * genetic improvements to forage crops; * analyzing corn grazing methods to extend the grazing season; * analyzing mineral levels in pastures to deter-

mine mineral supplement programs; * controlling prevalent and emerging diseases in poultry, cattle and swine; * pellet quality, diet analysis and nutritional enhancements for cattle and bison; * improving radio frequency identification tag retention in cattle; and * improving feed intake and growth of piglets.

“We appreciate this research funding to benefit cattle producers,” Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association Chair Jack Hextall said.

“Improving feed quality, grazing methods, disease control, and tag retention in cattle will ultimately lead to increased returns at the farm gate.”

“These research projects will lead to new innovations and technologies to help cow-calf producers improve their production, lower costs and increase

Puck n Funny coming to Shellbrook Feb 4

Shellbrook Minor Sports is hoping for a big crowd and big laughs as they host a Puck n Funny fund raiser at the Shellbrook Community Hall February 4.

The event will feature three stand up comics with a dance to follow with music

by Bitten by Air. According to Shellbrook Minor Sports President Sheldon Moe, funds raised through the event will be used to maintain affordable minor hockey programing in the minor sports system.

Puck n Funny provides community groups a vehicle to raise money for hockey causes in their community. The group provides the venue and some volunteer help while the company provides posters and up to three comedians from their roster of comics for a night of laughs.

The event will also provide funding for the Shellbrook Kinsmen club as they have been contracted to operate the bar.

This is an adults only show, so identification will be required at the door.

FOR SALE

1988 Mack Tandem Front Load Garbage Truck

Send sealed tenders clearly marked “1988 Mack” to: Highway 55 Waste Management Corporation Box 10, 641 Main Street Canwood, SK S0J 0K0 All tenders are to be in the hands of the Secretary Treasurer on or before 4:00 p.m., Friday, February 17, 2012.

Tenders will be opened on February 22, 2012, with the Corporation reserving the right to reject any or all tenders.

profits,” Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association President Harold Martens said.

“We are pleased the federal and provincial governments are providing this research funding to address important issues in the hog industry such as disease control, feed technology and improved production,” Sask Pork Chair Jay McGrath said.

“Research is vital to the future of our industry and we appreciate this funding to improve forage production in Saskatchewan,” Saskatchewan Forage

Council President Aaron Ivey said.

This research funding is in addition to the $8.3 million recently announced for crop-related research projects. In total, approximately $11.8 million in 2012 ADF funding is being provided for 60 crops, livestock, forage and other agriculture-related research projects.

ADF provides funding to help institutions, companies and industry organizations conduct research, development and value-added activities that will benefit Saskatchewan

farmers and ranchers. A complete list of all projects is available at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/ADF. This ADF funding is being provided under the federal-provincial Growing Forward framework.

New recruit

Congratulations to Arron Beeds on passing his BMQ at St. Jean, Quebec.

He is now in Esquilmalt, B.C. at Royal Canadian Navy taking his mechanical engineer course.

Proud of him are his father Tony Beeds, his mother Tina Beeds, grandparents Phillip and Shirley Ledoux, and his brother trees and to mark them for and two sisters. removal.

“Insect and disease surveys provide critical information to plan an effective and timely response, in co-operation with other jurisdictions,” said Environment Minister Dustin Duncan.

“In the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, a unique landscape we share with Alberta, the extended contract will ensure that all needed work can be completed.”

An additional $100,000 has been approved to complete the surveys by March 31, 2012, bringing total mountain pine beetle surveillance costs to $300,000 this year.

Mountain Pine Beetle survey extended The Ministry of Environment has extended a contract for mountain pine beetle surveys due to a higher than expected number of infested trees found in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Great Western Forestry Ltd. is contracted to survey for mountain pine beetle in the boreal forest in northwestern Saskatchewan and in Cypress Hills. The surveys in the northwest took place September 19, with no mountain pine beetles detected. However, the known infestation in the Cypress Hills affected more trees than expected.

The contract extension will allow completion of work to verify all infested

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Arron Beeds

Uninsured contractors Continued from page 7

12014RR00

Advertise in the SWNA blanket classifieds Text ads based on 25 words starting at $199 1 zone starting at $81 2 zones starting at $117 For more info call:

Shellbrook Chronicle 747-2442

Ask the contractor to supply you with a clearance certificate. You will then need to verify the clearance certificate with the provincial workers’ compensation body to ensure it is current and in good standing and to determine whether it includes or exempts the contractor.

If your independent contract is exempt from workers’ compensation, then you should request proof of coverage under other accident and sickness insurance and verify it with the insuring company.

It is also important to make sure all independent contractors carry public liability and property damage insurance. Again, do your homework by taking the time to check with the insurance agency to verify that the policy is currently effective and will continue throughout the duration of your engagement.

As a farm operator, you must manage risks to your business whether they are obvious or not. Knowing how your province’s workers’ compensation system works and your role within it is an important part of a successful farm business risk management strategy. For information specific to your farm operation, contact your provincial workers’ compensation authority.

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle

Page 9

University of Saskatchewan’s next president Ilene Busch-Vishniac has six months to wait before she takes over as president of the University of Saskatchewan but she already has a clear picture of how she will approach the job.

Currently provost and vice-president academic at McMaster University,

Busch-Vishniac was introduced Dec. 19 as the university’s ninth president. She will replace Peter MacKinnon who will step down June 30 after 13 years as president. After a late- night flight to Saskatoon from a family reunion in Philadelphia, Busch-Vishniac spent the

The new parking meters are fully installed in the downtown and the City of Prince Albert would like to remind residents that the parking meters will continue to accept coins ($0.25, $1 and $2 coins specifically), but as an added convenience the new meters come equipped with chip technology that will accommodate Metercards.

Metercards are a cashless way to pay for parking in the downtown. The cards are available for purchase at the Cashier on the main floor of City Hall. A one time, five dollar fee is charged for each card purchased. Once the card is empty, you can reload it to avoid paying another charge. Hourly time limits still apply when using the Metercards.

Your first metercard comes preloaded with $20.

After that you can re-load your card in $10 incre-

ments. Cards are reloadable at City Hall. Card users can slide the cards into the meter to register and slide the cards in again when they are ready to leave. The card will only debit the amount of time actually used. Complete instructions are handed out at the time of purchase and are available online at www.citypa.ca.

The City would also like for those parking in the downtown to take note of the handicapped parking meters that are marked by blue tops and signs.

There are 18 locations throughout the downtown.

These meters are reserved for handicapped parking and you put yourself at risk of a $300 fine if you park in these zones ($150 if paid within 10 days).

The new parking meters replace the obsolete meters that have been in the downtown for 40-50 years.

City of PA installs new parking meters

Family Literacy Day at the Shellbrook Library The Shellbrook Public Library is promoting Family Literacy Day on Friday January 27. The Library would announce that it still has calendars for sale and Children’s Story Time is back in February.

Your librarian and ABC Life Literacy Canada encourage you to start or continue your family journey into literacy on this year’s Family Literacy Day. This is a national awareness initiative created by ABC Literacy to raise awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacyrelated activities as a family. The ABC Literacy site abclifeliteracy.ca/familyliteracy-day offers a Journey to Learning Passport full of reading and math activities for home and outside the home. If you don’t have internet, just drop by the library and pick up a copy.

The Library is again selling its popular 2012 date log calendars for $6.00. Calendars are available at the Library or for sale at Woodland Pharmacy. Supplies are limited and going fast.

Children’s Story Time will resume February 3rd for the Winter 2012 season on Fridays at 10:30am. If you are interested in volunteering your time to read or do crafts, please contact Alanna at 747-3419.

Shellbrook Library hours are Monday 2:00pm - 6:00pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 2:00pm 8:00pm, Thursday 2:00pm - 6:00pm, and Friday 10:00am - 4:00pm. Weekly library hours are determined annually by materials checked out; the more materials checked out, the better. As a Community Access Program (CAP) site, the Library offers free computer and Internet access to the public.

day on campus meeting and greeting, addressing a large crowd in Convocation Hall at the announcement of her appointment, lunching with various officials, touring about and doing media interviews, including a wide-ranging discussion with On Campus News. She started by addressing her candid approach to answering any and all questions.

“I don’t hold back,” said Busch-Vishniac, who is warm, engaging and smiles easily. “I learned as a kid that I can never successfully lie … so I tell it like I see it.”

And the way she sees it is that the University of Saskatchewan’s strategic objectives blend almost seamlessly with her own.

The McMaster website listing her priorities – systems renewal, development of a new budget model, enrolment planning, teaching and learning, community partnerships, improving the student experience – could just as easily appear under the U of S banner. “I think that’s an absolutely fair assessment. There are a lot of similarities … and in particular the aspirations, the areas on which we want to focus are very, very similar, and that’s actually reassuring.”

The fact those aspirations are very clearly defined in the university’s mature integrated planning process was one of the attractions to the job of U of S president, she said. And it is not an apple cart she plans to upset.

“The fact that those plans exist means that it is a framework for me to build upon. I’m not seeking to change the integrat-

ed plans; I’m seeking to make sure that I can work with them and understand what drives them, and then build on that.”

Ilene Busch-Vishniac, next U of S president

Key for Busch-Vishniac early in her tenure will be to listen, a lesson she learned when she took over as McMaster provost after serving as professor and dean of engineering at Johns Hopkins University.

“A very smart person once told me that there is almost no such thing as an academic emergency.

There are emergencies on campus and they can be very serious, but there usually aren’t academic emergencies so what I’ve learned moving into new positions is that people want to tell you what they value, the history and traditions of the institution, and it’s very important to hear that.”

Referring to the former mayor of New York City whose signature line was “How am I doing?,” the president designate said she feels “almost as if I want to do is the Ed Koch model for a while, asking

what do you think, what are the issues?”

Asked if she can characterize her leadership style, Busch-Vishniac smiled and replied, “probably not, but let me do my best. I would consider myself someone who likes to try to build consensus but I also like to have lots of different perspectives. I’m also adamant that at some point, decisions have to be made and I’m fully prepared to make them and fully prepared to accept responsibility for having made them.”

She went on to describe herself as somewhat of a contrarian, a person who wonders if, when others are saying it might not be the right time to do something, “then maybe it’s exactly the right time.” A perfect example is her hiring of 41 new faculty at McMaster during the recent economic downturn when peer institutions across Ontario opted for hiring freezes. It was a move that not only built capacity, but also intense loyalty among faculty unable to secure permanent employment elsewhere.

That kind of risk-taking is a hallmark of BuschVishniac’s leadership, and it’s something she encourages in the people she

works with. “Some of the risks certainly aren’t going to pan out but if you don’t take those risks, then the opportunities for enormous payoffs are gone.”

Considering the situation in Saskatchewan with only two universities compared to Ontario’s 22, Busch-Vishniac argued that, ironically, the lack of competition creates “a moral imperative to take some risks because the push for improvement must come from within instead of from an external pressure.” While competition generally forces improvement in products or services, “my experience for Ontario universities has not fit that model.

There was a general fear of being innovative and taking risks because of the intense competition. It has actually worked to the detriment of the province rather than to its benefit, at least in the time I’ve been there.”

Buy! Buy! Sell! Sell!

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Prince Albert Raider Hockey Schedule Wed., February 1 ~ 7 p.m

P.A. VS Regina Fri., February 3 ~ 7 p.m

P.A. VS Medicine Hat

Page 10

Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

E & B Lumber moves to new location Continued from page 1

They also become less dependent upon trucks coming from their suppliers to provide products for their customers.

This is bolstered through their use of the Winnipeg based Sexton buying group. E & B uses Sexton’s buying power to level the playing field with larger lumber and hardware retailers like Rona and Home Depot.

“We are not just a small company in Shellbrook fending for ourselves, we’ve got some people working for us,” said Dave.

The Sexton Group represents more than 1,000 retail locations combining $2.2 billion of purchases creating the largest concentration of materials purchasing power in the industry.

While many of the product lines will remain the same for the new store there have been a few new additions but the major difference will be that most of it will be in stock at all times.

“We are just going to do what we did before only better,” said Dave.

They have also brought in an upgraded paint mixer which can handle four gal-

Above, E & B Lumber’s new cold storage building which currently houses building products like drywall, plywood and insulation. Below, a view of the new eight acre E & B lumber yard.

lons at a time and they now have a computerized paint matching system that can identify the colour of any sample and match it within the General Paint product line.

The company has also expanded their reverse osmosis water system, incorporating a quick fill spout for higher volume customers while maintaining a self fill unit for smaller customers.

The large new storefront will help give customers a better idea of what they can purchase with a multitude of dis-

St. Andrew’s Anglican Church will hold a

Valentine Bake Sale

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plays and products.

“We didn’t have displays or inventory to support any of our indoor sales,” said Dave.

With the added room, inside and out, the company will be able to reduce waste as many of the materials will be kept indoors and products will all have a home so they won’t have to be moved from place to

place.

Though the company

has served the community of Shellbrook for the past 32 years, most of their products are sold well beyond the town limits.

“Most of our business is cabin country. We do some residential in Shellbrook and we do lots of stuff in La Ronge,” said Dave.

During their busiest times in the summer they are sending two trucks a day to the Big River area while three trucks a week are headed to La Ronge.

The company gained its inroads to cottage country through forming good relationships with contractors building in these areas.

Free delivery and their willingness to work with contractors has created

some lifelong customers.

The company focuses on customer service while trying to provide the best lumber they can for their customers and Dave believes that that goes a long way.

Including Dave and Rod, the business staffs nine people and the summer will determine whether or not they have to increase their staffing levels.

As for the old building, Dave said that they’ve been so wrapped up in getting the new site up and running they haven’t thought much about the old one.

“We’ll take our time and deal with it properly,” said Dave.

Feds, Province partner to bring more doctors and nurses to Sask Federal Minister of Health Leona Aglukkaq, and Saskatchewan Health Minister Don McMorris announced funding to help attract, train and retain internationally educated health professionals for the Saskatchewan health workforce.

“Our Government is focused on working with provinces and territories to improve healthcare,” said Minister Aglukkaq.

“Today’s announcement is an example of how we can support the Government of Saskatchewan in their efforts to transform healthcare here in the province.”

To help the growing number of internationally educated health professionals, Health Canada is funding two projects aimed to meet the need for health care workers in Saskatchewan.

“We want to do everything we can to attract health care professionals to Saskatchewan and keep them once they’re here,” Health Minister Don McMorris said. “These projects will help internationally educated health professionals overcome barriers that might otherwise prevent them from working in careers appro-

priate to their skills and training.”

Led by the Saskatoon Health Region, the first project will promote the retention of current and potential future employees by offering the tools and support necessary - such as career planning, skills upgrading and language training - to bridge them into their trained profession.

The five-year project is expected to assist more than 200 employees of Saskatchewan’s health regions.

The College of Medicine at the University of

Saskatchewan will head the second project which will evaluate a Saskatchewan-based pilot assessment process for international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practise medicine in Saskatchewan. A key change in the process involves removing the barriers that previously existed based on IMGs’ country of training.

Once the new assessment has been evaluated, IMGs from an expanded list of countries will be assessed as long as they meet prescreening criteria.

SaskTel expands 4G to Ahtahkakoop, Big River First Nations

SaskTel has expanded 4G wireless coverage into two area communities.

The service expansion affects the Ahtahkakoop First Nation and Big River First Nations as a part of a previously announced initiative to provide High Speed Internet service and 4G coverage to 28 First Nations communities in Saskatchewan over the next two years.

“This innovative partnership will provide these 28 First Nations communities with access to Saskatchewan’s most extensive communications network,” said SaskTel President and CEO Ron Styles.

“Our First Nations Have been patiently waiting for the 4G network to come to their communities,” said

Interim FSIN Chief Morley Watson. The FSIN/SaskTel partnership has resulted in these 28 First Nations now having the opportunity to upgrade their systems. This project is another example of this tremendous partnership.”

The 4G network provides increased bandwidth with download speeds approximately 4 times faster than existing speeds (up to 21 megabits per second). It is also compatible with approximately 80% of all networks across the world and international roaming customers will be able to use their SaskTel 4G device on 4G networks anywhere.

January 27, 2012

12014MC00

At 100 km/h, on dry roads, a semi needs 1 football field to stop.

A car needs 62 yards.

Shellbrook Chronicle

Page 11

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Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

‘Your call is very important to us...’

“Your call is important to us,” goes the buzz phrase in thousands of recorded phone replies. To which I feel like asking, when someone eventually picks up: If my call is so important, why don’t you have a live person answer the damn phone?

Why so many businesses, corporations and institutions have adopted a fortress mentality is beyond me. They all claim public relations are so important. But clearly, the obvious priority with many of them is to hold callers at bay with what’s apparently called IVR: Interactive Voice Response.

That’s when you punch a number only to get: “Welcome to XYZ Corp, main menu. Please select from the following options…” and inwardly groan at what kind of hooptedoodle you’re about to deal with.

Sometimes, of course, the optionchoosing goes smoothly and you get a real person in a reasonable time. But as often as not, you end up punching and punching, then waiting and waiting, while subjected to irksome music and a string of company promotions.

I recently phoned a certain cable TV company (it rhymes with “paw”) with a question about a PVR problem. I waited roughly 30 minutes—the norm in my experience, not the exception—before I had to leave the house.

While I was waiting, I was repeatedly told how valuable my call was to the company. But I was given no estimate of waiting time and no option to leave my number for a call-back.

When I got back, I tried again and waited another 30 minutes before someone eventually answered and helped me with my problem. (Memo to said cable company: Please hire more trouble-shooters.)

A while back, I had a question concerning my property tax. So I phoned city hall and got the “City of Saskatoon Revenue Branch Interactive Voice Line.” I was kindly advised, via IVR robot: “If you’re not sure what to do, just say ‘help’”—which is what I did after listening to all the options.

The voice ignored me. “You may speak any of the items listed in the main menu. Please speak when prompted.”

Help! Help!

When I finally reached a live person, she told me, “You don’t have the right department. I’ll re-direct your call.” I found myself connected not to a human being, but to the main menu, where I’d begun. I just hung up.

Everyone has similar option-punching stories. A friend recently recounted how a recorded voice told her to say “yes or no to the following question.” After the question, she clearly said “Yes.” “I’m sorry,” the recorded voice replied. “I was unable to understand your answer.”

Maybe IVR oought to stand for IInvoluntary Vocal R Rage.

G o o g l e ““annoying IVR ccalls,” and there’s nno shortage of ffrustration out tthere.

One complained abo about “spam instructions” such as: “’If you’re calling about one of our great blah blah value bundles, press 1,’ when all you want to do is speak with billing.”

Wrote another: “I’ve found swearing like a sailor to work quite well. I don’t know if it’s the swearing or the long string of words it doesn’t recognize that does the trick, but either way I get a human.”

I’ll have to keep that last “trick” in mind.

Generally speaking, however, punching IVR options proceeds more smoothly and quickly with such commercial enti-

Bronwyn Eyre

ties as airlines, major hotels and department stores, just as ordering things online with Amazon, for example, is straightforward and hassle-free.

In other words, an interactive phone format need not be any more fortress-like than submitting orders through a userfriendly web site.

Still, wouldn’t it be great if management types suddenly realized that live, call-routing receptionists are the way of the future? That some study or other found public relations improved and profits climbed when an actual human replaced voice prompts?

Until that unlikely day arrives, it would be fun to give pesky callers an Interactive Voice Response all one’s own, with something like: Hello. Welcome to this household’s technical support. Your call may be recorded for quality assurance purposes.

Please select from the following four options: To listen to a recording by our darling three year old, please press 1. To hear a political message from gramps, please press 2. To listen to our 10 pet peeves, please press 3. If you are making a long-distance nuisance call, please hang up now. Good bye. bronwyn.eyre@sasktel.net

Feds announce health research funding

The Harper Government announced new research funding aimed at improving Canada’s healthcare system last week.

The announcement was made by Federal

Minister of Health Leona Aglukkaq, Saskatchewan Minister of Health and Don McMorris.

“This research is an investment that we believe will help provinces and territories reduce costs,

Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill MP Rob Clarke La Ronge 711 La Ronge Ave Box 612 S0J 1L0 Phone: 306-425-2643 Fax: 306-425-2677

Meadow Lake 114 Centre St. Suite C Box 1260 S9X 1Y9 Phone: 306-234-2334 Fax: 306-234-2339

Please contact my office if you are having problems with EI, CPP, Passports, CEP, Status cards, CRA, Agriculture Canada or any other Federal Government programs or departments.

1-866-400-2334

Ottawa House of Commons 502 Justice Bldg.

K1A 0A6 Phone: 613-995-8321 Fax: 613-995-7697

“Check out my website at www.RobClarkeMP.ca for important information.” - MP Rob Clarke

In the Classifieds Stuff Sells Fast!

and deliver better healthcare from coast to coast to coast,” said Minister Aglukkaq.

“Ultimately it’s about focusing on patients, and making sure they get the care they need.”

This funding opportunity will support teams of researchers and decisionmakers to conduct research in two areas: chronic disease prevention and management; and access to care for vulnerable populations, such as children, seniors, poor, elderly, and Aboriginal communities.

“Strengthening primary health services to ensure patient-centred care is key to transforming healthcare delivery,” said the Honourable Don McMorris, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Health. “This initiative offers health research teams in Saskatchewan and other jurisdictions the opportunity to enhance chronic disease management and better connect

patients to primary care.”

Effective communitybased primary healthcare is linked to better health outcomes, improved equity, reduced wait times, and an improved patient experience. It has also associated with reduced costs related to hospital services and length of stay, reduced emergency department visits, reduced ambulatory episode-of-care expenditures, cost savings from early detection of cancer and other chronic diseases, and lower costs of care for diabetes and congestive heart failure among highneed patients.

“CIHR is pleased to support research in this important field,” said Dr. Robyn Tamblyn, Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research. “By strengthening community-based primary healthcare, we can alleviate the pressures on Canada’s healthcare system and improve health

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outcomes for Canadians.”

The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to make

Canada’s health system more efficient, sustainable, to improve accountability and to deliver better service to Canadians.

Fund raising donations continue to pour in after holidays

Shelley Fraser, Debden presented a cheque for $500 to Linda Fidler at the Prince Albert Food Bank on January 18th.

Fraser put together a fund raiser on December 23, 2011 to help the Prince Albert Food Bank and Share-A-Meal program.

“I thought doing something different for another community would be a nice change. I contacted the Prince Albert Food Bank prior to this project to determine whether or not there was a great need for food, etc. I was told by the Food Bank if our

fund raiser took place prior to December 31, that the proceeds raised from this event would be doubled.

The Food Bank informed me that as part of the dollar-for-dollar donation drive by Postash Corp. that all money given to a food bank in Saskatchewan between November 15 and December 15 would become double.”

As a result the $500 donation presented by Fraser, the PA Food Bank would also receive another $500 to match, bringing the total to $1,000.

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle

From the desk of the Recreation Director By: Cassie Bendig New year, new website! Our Town Administrator; Tara Kerber, has redesigned the town website and how wonderful it will be! The website is now more modern and easy to use. Also, the website will be updated regularly. If you would like your information to be put on the calendars, pictures posted or have me mention something in particular, please email me so I can make the update.

For more communication, add me as a friend on Facebook (Shellbrook Rec) and follow me on Twitter. I am still new to Twitter – never used it before, but I am learning and I will master it.

One goal I have this year is to coordinate committee activity. What I mean by this is if anyone is having an event, send me an email or give me a shout. I would like to make sure that our community works together and not against one another.

So if you are having an event pass on the information and I will do my ab-

solute best to make sure no one else holds an event that day that may contradict. Another thing about me knowing what events go on, is I can add it to the website, Facebook, Twitter and last but not least, my article! Add me to your emailing list and send me those minutes!

A reminder to everyone, Leeta Harms is still running her classes on Tuesday and Thursday’s at the Elementary School at 7:30-8:30pm. Its only 5 dollar drop in – so drop by.

But that leads me on to my next topic – Spring Fit Camp is soon to start!

Our tentative start date is May 8th. Classes will be every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7:308:30 at the High School Football Field. The camp will get you fit and allow you to work out outside!

The Camp will run for 8 weeks. The cost is either $5 per day (yes we will have prepaid passes available) or $100 for the entire camp. Registration will be the first day, or a week before you can come into the town office and see me for

pre-registration.

I will soon be posting jobs for our Summer Staff.

This will include Head guard, Lifeguards, Head and Assistant Playground Coordinators, Park’s Maintenance Staff and a Part-time Tourist Booth Attendant. There are Part

time and full time positions available. Keep an eye out for these postings and come be part of the Shellbrook Summer Staff Team!

Weekly Health Tip: Winter can become depressing and long; we may have only started winter,

but get yourself ready for that feeling of “is this ever going to end?” I could tell you to get active – because that helps! – But what I am going to tell you to do is pamper yourself. Get a massage, do your nails, have an extra-long bath, because sometimes it is

Page 13

just nice to have a moment to stop and relax!

Have a great week!

Cassie Bendig, Shellbrook Recreation Director, office – 747-4949, cell – 747-9098, email – shellbrookrecdirector@sasktel. net

Government accepts Provincial Court Commission’s recommendations The Government of Saskatchewan has accepted the recommendations of the 2011 Provincial Court Commission regarding salary increases and benefits for Provincial Court judges.

“The Provincial Government accepts the constitutionally-mandated process for negotiating judges’ salaries and respects the independence of the judiciary,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said. “Our province is well-served by highly competent and experienced Provincial Court judges.”

The Provincial Court Commission is an independent body established under The Provincial Court Act, 1998 to complete an indepen-

Debden Credit Union Limited CALL FOR NOMINATIONS The Nominating Committee of the Debden Credit Union will receive written nominations for the Office of Director of the Credit Union to fill three (3) vacancies.

• Nomination forms are available at the Credit Union offices in Debden and Big River • Eligibility qualifications are included on the nomination form • The Nominating Committee must receive nominations no later than February 15, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.

• Elections will be held March 7 through March 9, 2012 • Elections will take place at the offices of the Credit Union

By Participating in Your Credit Union’s Democratically Controlled Member Financial Institution, you will be able to help guide our progress and ensure that the Credit Union is the member’s financial partner thru all the stages of their life

dent review of judicial remuneration and benefits. It is established every three years to make recommendations based on submissions from interested parties and the public.

The Supreme Court of Canada has established, on constitutional grounds, that provincial governments must use an independent compensation commission to consider judges’ salaries. The Provincial Court Commission is independent from the provincial government, and the province’s ability to reject the Commission’s recommendations is strictly limited.

The 2011 Commission, chaired

by William F. Hood, Q.C., held public hearings in Saskatoon and Regi-

na. As a result of these hearings and submissions from interested parties and the public, the Commission recommended a salary increase equal to the Saskatchewan Consumer Price Index, plus an additional one per cent for each of the three fiscal years between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2015. Provincial Court judges are currently paid $238,943 annually.

The Commission also recommended an increase of $150 to the judges’ annual professional allowance.

A copy of the Provincial Court Commission Report can be viewed at www.provincialcourtcommission. sk.ca.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

BLAINE LAKE: Wapiti Library: Books, DVDs, Internet, Study/Meeting Space, Proctor Service. Hours: Tuesday 1-5 p.m., Wednesday 1 - 5 p.m.; Thursday 5 p.m.

- 8 p.m. (Children’s Program & Story Telling 3:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.); Friday 1-5, (Adult computer help 2 - 4 p.m.) 306-497-3130.

CANWOOD: Branch of Wapiti Regional Library Hours: Tues. and Fri., 1 - 5 p.m.

Internet services available at the library.

DEBDEN: Wapiti Library hours: Monday 3 pm - 7 pm. Afterschool Program 3:30 - 5:00. Wednesday 11 am - 4 pm. Librarian: Aline Hannon LEASK: Wapiti Library Hours: Tues. & Fri.: 1 - 5:30 pm & Sat., 1:00 - 5:30 pm.

MARCELIN: Wapiti Library is open Tues. 11 - 4 pm; Thur. 3 - 8 pm. For information on all your library needs, please contact 306-226-2110.

SHELLBROOK: Shellbrook Branch of the Wapiti Library located at 105 Railway Ave., West (Provincial building). Library Hours: Mon., 2 - 6:30 pm; Tues., 2 - 8 pm; Wed. 2 - 8 pm; Thur., 2 - 6:30 pm; Fri., 10 - 4 pm. Children’s Story Time: Fri. 10:30 am (Oct. - May). Ph. 747-3419.

CANWOOD: Canwood Curling Club Annual Billy Spiel on Fri., Sat. & Sun., Feb. 3, 4, & 5. $120.00 per team, includes 4 dance tickets. $$$ CASH PRIZES $$$. Steak Supper - Friday Night $12 ~ 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dance - Saturday Night Midnight Lunch, 8 pm to 10 pm ‘The Happy Wanderers’, 10:30 pm to 2 am ‘Dust ‘Til Dawn’. Dance Tickets ~ $10. All minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Phone Curling entries to: Lisa 468-2783 or Grant 468-2881.

SHELLBROOK: Firearm Safety Hunter Education Registration on Monday, January 30th from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Shellbrook Wildlife Fed. Clubhouse. 12 Years and Up, Sask. Health Card Required. Registration $50.00. For info Lyndon Tieszen 747-4351 SHELLBROOK: Soup, Sandwich & Dessert, Friday, February 10, Community Hall 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Adults: $7 ~ Pre-School Free, Sponsored by Shellbrook Royal Purple. Everyone Welcome SHELLBROOK: St. Andrew’s Anglican Church will hold a Valentine Bake Sale Friday, February 10th, 11:00 a.m. until sold out, Affinity Credit Union, Shellbrook

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“Don’t miss out on letting your Community and others know of your event!”

Shellbrook Chronicle

Phone 306-747-2442 Fax: 306-747-3000 Box 10, Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0 email: chads@shellbrookchronicle. com

Page 14

Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

Obituaries

STEGER – Mary Margaret. It is with heavy hearts that Mary’s family announces her passing at Oliver Lodge in Saskatoon on January 18, 2012 at the age of 95. Mary was born on July 20, 1916 to Steven and Mary Verbonac of the Churchside District near Leask, SK. She was one of six children. She married Frank H. Steger of Blaine Lake (Riverhill District) on October 17, 1939. They farmed in the Slavanka area before buying a farm near Marcelin, SK where they continued farming until retiring to Marcelin in 1980.

Mary started working at an early age, then, after marriage, as a “farm wife” she worked hard while raising four children. She milked cows, operated the cream separator, tended chickens and had a huge garden. She was a great cook, always serving well balanced meals to her family. This included taking hot meals to the field during harvest. She always made time to visit if a friend or neighbor stopped by. Mary was a lifetime member of the CWL in which she always played an active role. She loved curling, having won dozens of trophies and prizes in bonspiels over the years.

She reported the Marcelin news to the Shellbrook Chronicle and was in charge of the “housing authority” in Marcelin. She also volunteered in many capacities.

Mary loved reading and did so daily. She enjoyed playing cards at the Senior’s Center. The score sheet was always placed in front of her as she could do the math in her head. She never felt the need for a calculator.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Frank in 1995; her daughter, Leona Pevach in 2004; her granddaughter, Kimberly Pevach in 2004; her sonin-law Donald Pevach in 2009. Besides her parents, she was also predeceased by five siblings: her twin sister, Katie Rutten and brothers, John, Steve, Alex and William.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her children: Franklin (Joy) Steger of Marcelin, SK, Marlene Steger of Saskatoon, SK and Vernon (Dawn) Steger of Marcelin, SK. Also mourning her loss are her grandchildren and great grandchildren: Shawn (Sonia) Pevach of Bonnyville, AB and their children, Saydee, Seth, Shae and Sydney; Brent (Wanda) Pevach of Dorintosh, SK and their children, Kayden and Devyn; Katelyn Pevach of Vancouver, BC; Randy Katelnikoff of Calgary, AB; Joel Katelnikoff of Edmonton, AB; Leah Katelnikoff of Edmonton, AB and her children, Jessica, Miranda and Stephanie Clouthier, and their father, Darrell Clouthier. Mary is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The Funeral Mass was held on Monday, January 23, 2012 at 2:00 PM at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Marcelin, SK. with Rev. Fr. Tru Le as celebrant. Interment followed in Marcelin Cemetery. The eulogists were Elaine Verbonac and Armand Greyeyes. The Urn Bearer was Blair Bonin. The organist was Maria DeGirolamo.

Donations in memory of Mary may be made to the Diabetes Association. Arrangements entrusted to Hawryluk Funeral Home, Leask, SK

Shellbrook Town Council highlights Volunteer firefighters in Shellbrook were given a bump in pay, pending RM approval, at the most recent meeting of Shellbrook Town Council.

Council voted in favour of an increase from $20 to $25 per hour for fire and emergency calls. The rate of pay for training hours remains at $15.

Councilor Don Moe brought the request from a fire fighting committee meeting where it was

stated that during daytime fire calls some fire fighters are in fact losing money because they are taking time away from their jobs to respond to the emergency.

The increase will now go to the RM of Shellbrook meeting table for approval as the fire department is funded jointly by the Town and RM. The next meeting of Town Council will take place February 27.

Put these home improvements on your 2012 calendar

(MS) -- With the deepfreeze factor at its annual high, the potential benefits of making energy saving improvements really hit home. Yet saving energy and money and adding comfort to your home should always be in season. Industry experts at Icynene (icynene.com) recommend you put these home improvement tips on your 2012 calendar: Winter * Install affordable plastic window-sealing kits, especially where you feel drafts. * Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switches to reduce air leakage. * Close the fireplace damper tightly when it’s not in use. If you use your fireplace regularly, consider adding a well-designed insert. * Replace or clean furnace filters at least once every three months.

Spring * Consider larger home improvements, like replacing windows that are best completed when the weather is nice. Consider adding spray foam insulation (like innovative Icynene) to your attic or in other areas of your home where the summer heat can infiltrate. You can start saving up to 50 percent in energy costs all year long. * Is your air conditioner old or on its last legs? Before things heat up, consider investing in an energy efficient Energy Star-rated unit. Consult an expert to ensure the size of the unit is properly matched to the needs of your home.

Summer * Add window coverings to block sunlight during the day, so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard. * Replace inefficient incandescent lighting with more efficient compact fluorescent or LED lighting that also produce less heat. * Check your hot water tank. If it’s warm to the touch, it might need some extra insulation. Check your home improvement store for inexpensive pre-cut tank jackets or blankets.

Fall * Check insulation levels where you can, like the attic or the floor of a room over the garage. If you didn’t get to it in the spring, install spray foam insulation to seal around openings and penetrations that let air flow in and out of your home. * Use caulking, sealant and weather-stripping to create a barrier against In memoriams may be put in the air and water around Chronicle for $19.00 (30 words) doorframes, windows and baseboards. Choose plus 20¢ per additional word the right caulking for the $ surface.

Photo - 10.00 * Insulate your hot water pipes to reduce heat loss.

It may enable you to reduce the temperature setting on your hot water Phone 306-747-2442 Fax 306-747-3000 tank. SH122846

In Memory

Shellbrook Chronicle email: chads@shellbrookchronicle.com

Regular Church Services, Sunday School and Special Church Events will be listed with the Directory FREE OF CHARGE

LUTHERAN CHURCH Zion - Canwood Sunday School, Worship Sunday, 11 a.m.

St. John’s - Shellbrook Sunday School, Worship Sunday, 9 a.m.

Pastor Doug Schmirler Parkside, Immanuel 11 a.m. - Worship & Sunday School Pastor Chris Dean -----------------------PENTECOSTAL CHURCH Parkside 10:00 a.m. Time of prayer 10:30 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday School Pastor David Baldock Shellbrook Sunday School 9:45 a.m.

Sun., 11:00 a.m. - Worship Pastor David Bodvarson 747-7235 Canwood 11 a.m. - Worship Pastor Glenn Blazosek Leask Gospel Tabernacle Sunday 6:30 p.m.

Pastor L. Trafford 306-466-2296 -----------------------EVANGELICAL FREE Big River 11:00 a.m. - Worship Bible Classes 9:45 A.M. Summer: 10:30 a.m. - 12 469-2258 Youth Nite: Fridays Mont Nebo Wed., 7:30 p.m. - Bible Study and Prayer.

Sun., 10:30 a.m. - Worship Pastor Bill Klumpenhower -----------------------CATHOLIC CHURCH Debden Sun., 9:30 a.m. - Mass.

Fr. Sebastian Kunnath Big River - Sacred Heart Sun., 11:30 a.m. - Mass Whitefish Sun., 2:30 p.m. - Mass.

Victoire Sat., 7:30 p.m. - Mass.

Fr. Sebastin Kunnath Eucharist Celebrations Muskeg Sat., 7:30 p.m. - Mass Mistawasis Sunday, 3 p.m.

St. Agatha’s Shellbrook Mass Sunday, 11 a.m.

Fr. Tru Le St. Henry’s - Leask

Mass Saturday 7 p.m.

St. Joseph’s - Marcelin Mass Sunday, 9 a.m.

Fr. Tru Le -----------------------PRESBYTERIAN Mistawasis Sunday worship 11 a.m.

Rev. Bev Shepansky -----------------------SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST 407-2nd Ave E, Shellbrook Sat., 9:45 a.m. - Sabbath School.

Sat., 11:00 am Worship Broadcast on VOAR 92.1 FM Pastor Stanislav Kondrat 306-764-6853 -----------------------SOVEREIGN GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH Currently meeting in homes on Sunday morn. and Wednesday evenings.

Parkside 747-2309, Leask 466-4498 Marcelin 226-4615 -----------------------ANGLICAN CHURCH Leask - All Saint’s 8 a.m. - Morning prayer Service.

9 a.m. Holy Communion Canwood - Christ Church 2 p.m. 1st & 3rd Sundays Evening Prayer 2nd & 4th Sundays Holy Communion Mont Nebo - St. Luke’s 2 p.m. - 1st and 3rd Sundays Holy Communion 2nd and 4th Sundays Evening Prayer St. Andrew’s Shellbrook Sunday, 11 a.m.

Holy Communion Father Harnish 468-2264 -----------------------UNITED CHURCH Big River 1st & 2nd Sundays 1 p.m. - Worship at Anglican Church All Other Sundays -10 a.m.

Shellbrook - Knox Sun., 10 am - Worship Pastor Dave Whalley

-----------------------ABUNDANT LIFE CHURCH Big River Sun., 10:30 a.m. - Worship

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle

Page 15

St. Louis fans not singing the Blues The 2011-12 National Hockey League season will be remembered long-term for the arrival of the Jets in Winnipeg and the ongoing concussion problems of superstar Sidney Crosby, but the biggest on-ice story has to be the performance of the St. Louis Blues.

The NHL awards people may as well give the coach-of-the-year trophy to Ken Hitchcock right now because he took over the Blues in November when they had a 6-7 record and now they’re battling it out with the powerful Bruins, Red Wings, Rangers, Black Hawks and Canucks for No. 1 overall.

And while plaudits are being tossed Hitchcock’s way for his behind-the-bench miracles, save some for goalie Brian Elliott, who is the undisputed feel-good personal story of the 2011-12 campaign.

Elliott, the poster boy for NHL ‘journeyman’, was brought in supposedly to play a handful of games in relief of No. 1 goalie Jaroslav Halak. Instead, he has equally shared net duties with Halak and the pair have turned into a combination of Terry Sawchuk, Jacques Plante, Ken Dryden and Patrick Roy. It’s a nice chicken-and-egg situation for the Blues. What came first?

Hitchcock’s coaching style, with its emphasis on defence, that led to sensa-

tional puck-saving numbers for Elliott and Halak? Or was it the goaltenders’ sudden reincarnation of Mr. Zero, Frankie Brimsek, that has turned Hitchcock into the NHL’s 2012 genius? Hitchcock’s style of play has the Blues surrendering the fewest shots per game, so it’s probably a combination of both.

Since becoming the every-other-game goalie for the Blues, Elliott — whose numbers with Ottawa and Colorado last year bordered on lousy — has posted a 15-51 record and a 1.68 goals-against-average. Halak hasn’t been too bad, either, with an average in the 2.00 range. He got off to a slow start, partially leading to Payne’s demise, but went undefeated during a recent 13-game surge (10-0-3) that helped vault the Blues into the leagueleading stratosphere.

The solid play of the two goaltenders, Hitchcock’s coaching approach, and the Alex Pietrangelo-led defence have been key components to the Blues surge that have fans reminding themselves that in hockey, the general rule of thumb is that

Bruce Penton

SaskPower asks customers to put safety first this winter – and win!

Scraping ice and shoveling snow aren’t favourite winter activities for most people, but SaskPower is trying to change that.

In an effort to clear walkways and create a safe environment for everyone, SaskPower is calling on customers to clear a path to their power and gas meters for a chance to win a snowblower and other prizes. Simply submit a photo of you clearing a path to your meters and you could win a Troy-Bilt snowblower or a weekly prize of a VISA gift card.

“Clearing a path to the meters often requires some extra shoveling, but it really makes a big difference,” said Robert Watson, SaskPower President and Chief Executive Officer. “Everyone benefits because easy access to the meters allows us to gather the information we need to serve customers in a timely and accurate manner.”

Many SaskPower customers do a great job of clearing their driveways and walkways, but as many as half report they do not make a concerted effort to clear all the way to their meters. A clear path to the meters goes a long way to preventing injuries.

“Slips, trips and falls are the leading cause of injuries to SaskPower meter readers,” said Glenda Barton, SaskPower Chief Safety Officer. “When it comes to preventing injuries for meter readers, we count on the public to help reduce the risks they face.”

For more information on the Keep Your Meter Neater contest, visit saskpower.com.

The contest closes on February 26, 2012.

“defence wins championships.”

We’ll see in May and June whether that mantra holds true.

• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “Elin Nordegren, the former Mrs. Tiger Woods, is having her $12 million Florida mansion torn down to have a new place built. Golf historians immediately declared it the mother of all mulligans.”

• Comedy writer Jerry Perisho: “Donald Trump wants to build a top-level golf course in New York City on the site of a former landfill. The course will smell like Tiger Woods’s divorce settlement.”

• Greg Connors of the Buffalo (N.Y.) News, on the Angels re-signing Kendrys Morales, out since he jumped on home plate and broke his ankle after hitting a grand slam in May 2010: “Morales’s new deal has both a no-trade and no-celebration clause.”

• Charles Barkley, hosting Saturday Night Live, clarifying his comment in a skit that God wanted the Suns to win the NBA title when he played for them: “My bad. I didn’t realize God was wearing No. 23 for the Chicago Bulls.”

• Norman Chad of washingtonpost. com, on Clippers’ coach Vinnie Del Negro’s most important job. “(He) doesn’t make your team better, he just makes sure all the players get on the team bus.”

• Scott Ostler, San Francisco Chronicle: “Love Dwight Howard’s game . . . but how about Howard’s free throws?

Is that a follow-through or a karate chop?

He’s like a golfer who has a marvelous game, tee-to-green, then putts with an umbrella.”

• Len Berman of ThatsSports.com, on the 75-year anniversary Howard Hughes flying from Los Angeles to New York in a record seven hours, 28 minutes and 25 seconds: “Or roughly the length of the Super Bowl pregame show.”

• Perisho again, after the Colts fired Jim Caldwell after a 2-14 season: “That’s just two more wins than you had, and you weren’t even coaching.”

• R.J. Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Ken Dryden told Sportsnet 590 that hockey needs to do more to cut down on brain damage. The NHL has responded by asking Dryden to stay off the radio.”

• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “The Yankees — whose 2011 rotation included CC Sabathia (6 feet 7, 290 pounds), Bartolo Colon (5-11, 265) and Freddy Garcia (6-4, 250) — are about to add 6-7, 270-pounder Michael Pineda to the mix. So just what is Brian Cashman trying to assemble here, a pitching staff or an offensive line?”

• Ostler again, about pro athletes tweeting before a big game: “Nothing good ever comes of an NFL player twittering. It’s like wearing your jock outside your pants — there’s no way to do it and come off looking cool.”

• Another one from Ostler, on solid football strategy for this Sunday’s big game: “Establish the run, in order to set up your passing game. If that doesn’t work, establish the pass, in order to set up the running game. If that doesn’t work, establish the punt.”

Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca

North West Regional College North West Regional College has provided innovative and comprehensive academic and skills training programs to our region for over 30 years. We recognize the importance of providing personal attention and relevant programming to clients and students throughout our region. Working at North West Regional College means you are part of the educational experience. Whether you are interacting with students in the classroom and labs, working within one of our coordination teams or supporting the learning from behind the scenes, you can find your place among a vibrant and dynamic group at North West Regional College. If you are dedicated to ensuring a positive learning experience, join us as…

Instructor

Adult Basic Education For the past 35 years, the Saskatchewan Junior Citizen program has been recognizing the outstanding youth of Saskatchewan.

12013JJ00

This year four deserving youth, aged between 8 and 18 years old, will receive $3000 bursaries to help pay for their future post-secondary education.

Someone you nominate could be one of them.

Visit www.swna.com for more information and nomination forms or call Nicole Nater at 1-800-661-7962 Nomination closes April 30, 2012.

Big River First Nation Reporting to the Program Coordinator, the instructor is responsible for the delivery of the Level 1 Saskatchewan Adult Literacy Benchmarks. Successful applicants are capable of independently evaluating, instructing and mentoring students in the classroom. Qualified applicants will have a Bachelor of Education degree and a valid Saskatchewan Teaching Certificate. Experience teaching adults will be an asset. This is a part-time term position for 324 hours from February 13, 2012 to June 13, 2012. A more detailed description of the position can be found on the NWRC website at www.nwrc.sk.ca NWRC wishes to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Apply your exceptional talents in a unique academic atmosphere. Please apply in writing, quoting file #89-BRFN-1112, by January 31, 2012 at noon to: Human Resources North West Regional College 10702 Diefenbaker Drive North Battleford, SK S9A 4A8 Fax: (306)445-1575 E-mail: careers@nwrc.sk.ca NOTE: This is an in-scope position. Internal applications from North West Regional College staff, with seniority, will be considered prior to outside applicants. The commencement of this position is subject to funding decisions, which are beyond the control of North West Regional College, and therefore subject to change.

Page 16

Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

BUSINESS

AUTOBODY REPAIR

WHITROW STOBBS & ASSOCIATES 764-2773 1-800-561-4357 Consultants for Simply Accounting AGRICULTURE

306.747.8124

Carlton Trail Hearing Clinic

Drs. Degelman, Miller, MacDonald & Fink

STUCCO/STONE/DRYWALL

2995 2nd Ave. West South Hill Mall, Prince Albert, SK

306-922-0003 TF 1-877-477-6863

www.carltontrailhearing.com

FARM EQUIPMENT

• Complete Autobody Repair • Lifetime Warranty • Auto Glass Repair • Paintless Dent Repair 492 South Industrial Dr. Prince Albert

PARTS Larry Adamko, Joe Clyke After Hours 960-1921 SERVICE Chris Lucyshyn After Hours 960-4916 SALES Brent Karr 232-7810

BRONZE CASTER

FINANCES

922-2040

INSURANCE

email: office@taitinsurance.ca www.taitinsurance.ca

SHELLBROOK 747-2896 CANWOOD 468-2227 LEASK 466-4811

1-877-898-8248 (TAIT)

Bronze cemetery plaques made at Mont Nebo, Sask.

Phone: 468-2853 Fax: 468-2252 email nisse@sasktel.net web: www.nissefoundry.com

Building Futures Together Serving our Communities in Debden and Big River Debden

Ph:

For Drywall, Boarding, Taping, Texture & Small Renos

3 - 2685 - 2nd Avenue West

Phone 764-2288 Prince Albert

website: www.pavision.optometry.net

OPTOMETRIST Dr. Wayne Diakow Dr. Stephen Malec Dr. Carolyn Haugen Dr. Nicole Lacey

Frank (306) 427-4908

Ph:

Rodney (306) 427-4907

TRUCKING

Rocky Road Trucking Ltd. Debden, SK

Central Optometric Group

OPTOMETRISTS 3 - 210 - 15th Street East, Prince Albert S6V 1G2

For all your Grain Hauling needs.

LAWYER

PLUMBING

VACUUM SALES

WilcoxZuk-Chovin Law Office

Shelltown Plumbing & Heating

P.A. VACUUM

747-2641

Big River

For Stucco, Parging or Stone

PHONE 764-6311

Kimble Bradley

724-8370

P.A. Vision Centre OPTOMETRISTS

Contact Rocky Couture Cell (306)468-7872 or (306)724-2176

General Insurance Health Insurance Motor Licence Issuer

NISSE FOUNDRY Let us give you the dirt on soil health!

Box 1236 Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0

STUCCO SERVICES

Au.D., BCC - HIS Doreen Chyz, BC - HIS

...THE PULSE OF THE REGION

G. Whitrow, Prof. Acct.

B. Stobbs, Tax Acct.

OPTOMETRIST

Dr. Jodi Haberstock,

DIRECTORY...

ACCOUNTING

HEARING CLINIC

Saalmic Mechanical Services Ltd. Courteous, professional, reliable, plumbing, heating, gas fitting services

Phone 747-4332 Shellbrook, Sask.

Service - Parts

(all makes of vacuums welcome

FREE ESTIMATES

SALES

763-3202 #2-150-32nd St. W. Prince Albert, SK (behind Pizza Hut)

www.back-to-your-roots.com

Fax: 306.747.3469

Build our community: Buy locally manufactured

AUTO ACCESSORIES

CONSTRUCTION

FUNERAL SERVICES

PLUMBING

WAITING FOR YOU

RED WING

AUTET

BEAU “LAC” FUNERAL HOME LTD.

BMW Plumbing & Heating

This Space Is Waiting For You

AUTO RECYCLERS Hwy. 2 North - Pine Village Mon. - Fri. 8 am to 5 pm Sat. 9 am to 3 pm (excluding long weekends) RR 5, Site 16, Comp 13 Prince Albert, SK S6V 5R3

747-2828 (24 hours)

Residential & Farm Building

www.beaulacfuneralhome.com

Allan Autet

AUTOMOBILE

CURBING

For All Your Used Car and Truck Needs

Ph 747-4321 anytime AUTOMOBILE

EAVESTROUGHING

TMK EAVESTROUGHING Eavestroughing • Fascia Soffits • Siding

Tyson Kasner t.m.k.@sasktel.net • Pump & Fuel Injector Overhauls • Drive-In Bay Service • Power Performance Products email: padiesel@sasktel.net

Fax: 763-0410

Cell Phone Number

306•747•8169

Licensed Gas Fitter/ Journeyman Plumber New Construction & Renovations Furnace/Boiler/ Airconditioning Free Quotes 1-306-883-2350 Cell: 1-306-883-7467

Keep Your Business In The Public Eye And A Quick Reference At Your Customer’s Finger Tips.

Call Today:

Dave Hjertaas ~ Tammy Smart ~ Donna Lovberg John Couture Greg Spencer Marjorie Brossart Fred Pomrenk

Barry West, Owner/Operator

Owned & Operated by Ed and Brenda Beaulac

Spiritwood, SK. S0J 2M0

Madeleine 747-2442

REAL ESTATE

WELDING/REPAIR

FUNERAL SERVICES

RCM Curbing Prince Albert 960-8659

Kwik Kerb Continuous Edging Suits: • Garden Soil & Bark Retention • Mower Strips • Driveway Borders & Edges • Landscaping Contouring • Paving Borders • Carparks

Email: aatrading@sasktel.net Cell: 306-747-7168 Fax: 306-747-3481

REMCO MEMORIAL REPRESENTATIVE

• Framing, Concrete, • Exterior/Interior Finishing

466-2159 466-7771

A & A Trading Ltd.

Pre-Arrangements Available

• CONSTRUCTION • Leask, SK

Ph: 306-922-2210 Fax: 306-922-2689

1-131 Service Rd. East, Box 457 Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0

Shellbrook

469-4944

LAWYER

DELBERT M. DYNNA Law Office 100A - 10th St. East Prince Albert, SK S6V 0Y7

FUNERAL SERVICES

RIVER PARK FUNERAL HOME Prince Albert, SK

306-764-2727 1-888-858-2727 Pre-Arrangements Available Don Moriarty Colette Kadziolka Louise Robert

Lesley Sully Wayne Timoffee Andrea Langlois

PARKSIDE WELDING & REPAIR MOBILE & SHOP

phone (306) 764-6856 fax (306) 763-9540

Your Best Move!

Preferred areas of practice: Wills, Estates, Real Estate

www.tbmason.com

Greg Olson Ph: 747-2990 Cell: 747-8148 Parkside g-welding@hotmail.com

METAL SIDING/ROOFING

SECURITY

YARD CARE

922-1420

METAL ROOFING METAL SIDING

• MANUFACTURER DIRECT • Steel Roll formed to custom lengths • LOWEST PRICES Call Leonard

306-466-7921

• Municipal Bylaw Enforcement • Special Occasions Owner/Manager

Glen Andrusyk

306-747-8146

or visit www.versaframe.ca

andrusykgcmj@sasktel.net

Total Lot Care

• Snow Removal • Roto Tilling • Levelling • Material Hauling • Finish & Rough Cut Mowing

Trac Skid Steer Dump Trailer ~ Tractor Call Cal at

1-306-714-7222

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle Page 17

The Classifi fieds Shellbrook Chronicle

HELP WANTED

Reaching over 10,000 people weekly.

Personal Classifieds: $13.25 for 20 words + 20¢ additional words for the 1st week.

Additional weeks: $7.75/week + GST. Classified Display: $17.50/column inch. Minimum 2 column inches - $35.00 + GST. For All Other Advertising Please Contact Our Office at: Ph: 747-2442 or Fax: 747-3000 Email: news: chnews@shellbrookchronicle.com advertising: chads@shellbrookchronicle.com P.O. Box 10, Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0 Advertising Deadline - Monday: 5:00 p.m.

Benefits for Medical/Dental & much more

Tire Repair Technician Shellbrook Sales & Service includes automotive and agriculture parts, tires, and service. We have one mechanic bay, one tire bay and are looking for a self-motivated person to fill the Tire Repairman position.

This is a permanent full time position with medical benefits and a salary corresponding to your experience. Preference will be given to experienced applicants however we will also train suitable candidates. Previous automotive or farm experience an asset.

Respond with resume to sss94@sasktel.net

Subscriptions $57.00 + $2.85 (GST) = $59.85/year

SWNA Blanket Classifieds Reaching over 6 million people weekly.

Cost for 25 words: Saskatchewan market .........$209.00 One Zone ............................$86.00 Two Zone ..........................$123.00 Alberta market .......................$259.00 Manitoba market ...................$179.00 BC market .............................$395.00 Ontario market ......................$429.00 Central Ontario ..................$139.00 Eastern Ontario ..................$143.00 Northern Ontario ..................$82.00 Quebec market English ...............................$160.00 French ................................$709.00 Atlantic market ......................$159.00 Across Canada ..................$1,770.00 (excluding French) Career Ads “Reaching Over 600,000 People Weekly” Rates: $7.79 per agate line Size: 2 col. x 2” ............... .....$424.00 Deadline for Booking/Material Tuesdays @ 12 Noon Contact the Shellbrook Chronicle @ 306-747-2442 or Email: chads@shellbrookchronicle.com All prices plus applicable taxes.

NOTICE

This newspaper accepts advertisements in good faith. We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally. Publications by this paper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or services offered.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

FOR SALE - 4 new 16” radial tires for 3/4 ton on Jeep rims; 6 - 900/20” on Dayton rims.

Phone 306-4662261.

CH FOR SALE - Band sawn lumber, spruce 2x4 to 2x10 from 8 ft. to 20 ft.; 1x6, 1x8, 2nd cuts, and bull rails also timbers from 4x4 to 12x12. Phone 306-469-2490, Big River.

TFCH FIREWOOD For Sale: Will cut to length and split. Jack Pine or

Spruce available.

Also ice shack grab bags. Ph: 466-2272 4-5CH FOR SALE - Like new ‘Body Break’ exercise bike. $125 Ph: 747-4361 2-4CH H O U S E HOLD ITEMS New BOSCH Bowl Scraper, fits on the whisk or cookie paddles for the Uni Mixers $33.99, Tfal Actifry $229, 2lbs of french fries with 1tbsp oil! Call Hometech Regina 1-888-692-6724

Classifieds Work!

747-2442

HELP WANTED

12014MS00

AUTOS FOR SALE FOR SALE - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria ex-RCMP car, good running condition. $2,700 Ph: 763-2963 3-4CH MACHINERY FOR SALE

FEED WANTED

WANTED

All kinds of feed grain, including heated canola. Now distributors of feed pellets with up to 36% protein.

Bulk Fertilizer For Sale

FOR SALE - 1998 Bergen 16’ stock trailer. Ph: 7473185 TFCH

Marcel Seeds

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

FOR SALE - Black and Red Angus bulls on moderate growing ration.

Performance info available. Adrian, Brian or Elaine Edwards, Valleyhills Angus, Glaslyn, SK 342-4407 TFCH

HELP WANTED - Kennel attendant, must have confidence with all types and temperaments of dogs and enjoy working with them. Must be a meticulous cleaner as well. Full time $10.60 -$10.75/ Hour Send Resume with work history with references, by letter, email, or fax only please.

Do not call or stop in.

Trailrunners, Box 940, Big River SK, S0J 0E0. saskcan1@sasktel.net fax 306 469 5767 4-6CH

FEED FOR SALE FOR SALE - Small square bales, $6.00 each. Big round bales, average 1400 lbs. Some hay some alfalfa hay.

Phone 306-4662261.

CH

Debden Ph: 306-724-4461

HELP WANTED - Spiritwood Stockyards, Janitor. Position is part time. Contact Brian at 306-883-2168 4-7CH

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Emerald Lake Regional Park is looking for a dynamic individual as an Administrator/Park Manager for the 2012 Season. For additional information email elrptres@hotmail. com for a full description of the job requirements.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY WORK FROM YOUR CASTLE! Do you have 10 hrs a week? Teach over the internet.< Free online training. Flexible hours.

Great retirement income.< www.key2wellness4all.com

Classifieds Work!

Phone

747-2442

LAND FOR SALE FOR SALE - Farm land in the RM of Canwood SW1551-05-w3.

162 acres. Phone after 6 p.m. 306-4682665 ask for Judy.

4-7CH

FOR RENT FOR RENT Older Farm home, three bedrooms, one bath, well, oil heat, utilities not included. Approximately 14 miles S/W of Shellbrook, SK. Non-smoking, 2 references.

306-763-2172 or 306-960-9028.

FOR RENT - 3 bedroom apartment, available Feb. 1, 2012. Reliable working single or couple. No pets. No smoking.

Please call 7472611 for more information. 3-4CH

LAND FOR RENT LAND FOR RENT - Crop land for harvest 2012. Can rent by quarter. 8832443.

CH

SERVICES SERVICES Canwood First Responders are currently seeking volunteers to join our team and help save a life, If you are interested please contact Lorna Benson 468-2312 or Kirsten Vaughan 4683054.

SERVICES - Let us inspect before you remodel, buy or build a new home. We check for heat loss, electrical problems, water damage and mold. Call today to avoid future problems.

Biotherm Inspections, Stan, P.A. 306-961-6499 TFCH SERVICES - We do custom slaughtering and meat cutting. Beef, pork, wild game, sausage making ham and bacon curing. Leoville Meats 1-306984-4429 4-4CH

TRAVEL T R A V E L Expedia Cruise Ship Centers Saskatoon Now Recruiting.

Work from home with a Schedule that fits your Lifestyle.

Call Chuck @ 1-877-446-7447 or cstang@cruiseshipcenters.com for more information.

Are you confused looking through countless numbers of resorts Let my experience assist in your selection.

My advice is free!

For info & a quote contact

Rhonda Martin (306) 468-2633 or email

rhonda@ixtapatravel.ca

Sell It Fast!

In The Classifieds

747-2442

The Classifi fieds

Page 18 Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

CARD OF THANKS I would like to say a special thank you to all my family and friends for attending my 80th birthday celebration, as well for all the beautiful flowers and cards that I received. Also to my family for putting this on, it turned out wonderful and meant so much to me. Thank you once again.

- Mary Bruce.

The family of Mary Steger wishes to thank the staff at Oliver Lodge (Sunshine Court) for the professional and compassionate care given to Mary during her stay. Thank you also to friends and neighbors for the support shown to Mary during her many years at Marcelin.

IN MEMORIAMS THIEL - In Memory of Erna Thiel Nov. 6, 1921 Jan. 25, 2011 Gone are the days we used to share, In our hearts you are always there.

The gates of memory will never close, Miss your quiet presence more than anyone knows.

Love from your family.

In Memoriams In memoriams may be put in the Chronicle for $19.00 (30 words) plus 20¢ per additional word

Shellbrook Chronicle

Phone 306-747-2442 Fax 306-747-3000

Salvias Galore! Part II

deMONTARNAL - Louis de Montarnal, July 18, 1929 - January 30, 2011 On January 30-, 2011, the one we loved was called away.

God took him home, it was His will.

What it meant to lose him, No one will ever know.

Wishing that God could have spared him many more years.

Louis left us many memories we are proud to own.

In our world, he was the best.

We treasure the memory of him and his love, deep within our hearts.

Though absent, you are very near.

Always thinking about you.

In our hearts, you still live.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Lucie, his children Lise (Marvin), Colette (Allen), Pierre, Roland (Connie), Nicole (Kevin), Celine (Milton) and their families. d e M O N TA R NAL - Dear Louie I thought of you today, but that is nothing new.

I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too.

I think of you in silence.

I often speak your name.

All I have are memories and a picture in a frame.

Your memory is a keep sake, from which I’ll never part.

God has you in His arms.

I have you in my heart.

Still missing you, Lucie.

By Sara Williams There are a number of droughtand heat-tolerant salvias that are perennials in their native more tropical climes that here on the Prairies are treated as annuals.

Each species and variety adds a different dimension to our flower beds: some form silvery mounds, others are taller and clumpy with colourful and dramatic flowers, and others yet that were once grown for their culinary and medicinal properties.

Regardless of their shapes and forms, all share a few common features. They are members of the mint family and therefore have square stems and opposite leaves (i.e. two leaves at each node on opposite sides of the stem). Flowers are two-lipped and in whorls around the flowering stems.

Typically, salvias grow best in full sun and well drained soil. Many self-seed to some extent. Some can be well behaved and not spread too widely while other types are good for naturalizing or contributing to a cottage garden.

Due to differences among species, there’s a salvia for many types of gardens including rock gardens, mixed borders, containers and cutflower gardens.

Hummingbirds, bees and butterflies alike are attracted to this adaptable genus.

Here are another three salvias to round out the four from last week: Gentian sage (Salvia patens), from the mountains of Mexico, is another tender perennial that is treated as an annual on the prairies;

however, it is seldom seen in our gardens. It performs better during hot summers. The flowers are formed in whorls around the stem, on plants 45 to 60 cm (1824 in.) in height.

The pale to bright blue color is truly wonderful, and the hooded flowers are large. But to its detriment, it is not very floriferous. The deep green leaves are long (15-20 cm/6-8 in.), triangular and pointed.

• ‘ B l u e Angel’ (60-70 cm/24-28 in. tall) has 5 cm (2 in.) tubular blooms and is long flowering.

• ‘Cambridge Blue’ (60 cm/24 in. tall) is a soft, pure blue.

Scarlet sage (S. splendens), a native of Brazil, is another perennial treated as an annual. The two-lipped, tubular flowers are formed in spikes of red, burgundy, pink, orange, cream, blue, purple or yellow. Branched and upright to 60 cm (24 in.), its green leaves are oval with serrated edges.

• ‘Lighthouse Red’ is bold and tall (45 – 60 cm / 18 – 24 in.) with bright red spikes overtop medium green leaves • ‘Mojave Red’ is early with vivid red spikes on compact, wellbranched plants of 23 to 25 cm (9-10 in.) tall.

• ‘St. John’s Fire’ (25-30 cm/10-12 in. tall) has early, scarlet red blooms.

• S a l s a series flowers prolifically, available in nine colors, on compact plants of 35 cm (14 in.) tall.

• Sizzler series (25-30 cm/10-12 in. tall) has early, longblooming, tight, compact spikes in nine colors.

Sask Perennial Society coming events

February 4 (Saturday), 9 am - 2 pm. ‘Cultivating the Vision: Growing Together in Community Gardens’ conference; sponsored by CHEP (www.chep.org). Join community gardeners and local garden leaders as they meet to be inspired by one anothers’ actions and visions! Topics range from advice on starting a new community garden to how to make the most of a small garden plot: growing and harvesting tips.

WP Bates School 2515 18th St. W. $10 covers lunch. Must pre-register. To register or for more information contact Ruth Ann Rudack: communitygardening@chep.org or call 655-5322.

February 14 (Tuesday). Valentines Dinner at the century old Superintendents Residence in the heart of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo. Hosted by the Friends of the Forestry Farm House (www. fffh.ca). Seatings at 5:00 and 7:00 pm; $40 per persons (prepaid only). Call Claire at 373-1787 or email c.bear@sasktel.net for more information or to reserve.

There are still a few copies left of ‘Of a Cold Land’ (Sara Williams: the stories and plant introductions by prairie horticulture pioneers; $14) and the ‘2012 Prairie Gardener’ (Western Canada’s only gardening annual since 1937; this year’s theme is trees for the prairies; $13). They are available from the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (343-7707) and at some local book stores and garden centres.

Clary sage (S. viridis, syn. S. horminum) is not planted as much as it once was, yet it always invites positive comments when people see it for the first time. Clary sage is native to southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean and is a true annual.

The species name, viridis, means green and describes the green bracts of some forms. Clary means clear-eyed, alluding to its former use in healing eye afflictions. The seeds were leached in water to use as an eye-wash.

Interestingly, the gray-green foliage is used in the modern pharmaceutical-cosmetic industry. It will self-seed.

Plants are 30 to 60 cm (12-

24 in.) tall. The showy, petal-like bracts are in pastel shades of blue, pink, purple, cream or white, while the real flowers above the bracts are small and inconspicuous. It is good for naturalizing in dry areas, on slopes,

in annual or mixed beds, containers, cottage gardens, or for fresh or dried arrangements. It is excellent in a pastel border.

• Marble Arch mix comes in rose, deep blue and white on uniform plants of 30 to 45

cm (12-18 in.) tall.

• Tricolor mix (60 cm/24 in. tall) is in blue, pink and white.

Sara William’s revised and expanded edition of Creating the Prairie Xeriscape will be published later this year.

Great Family Home For Sale

3+1 bedroom 1,175 sq. ft. bungalow in Shellbrook. Open concept with vaulted ceiling in kitchen and living room. Close to schools in a great neighbourhood.

Quick possession available. $254,000

Call 747-7545 for viewing

In Memory In memoriams may be put in the Chronicle for $ 19.00 (30 words) plus 20¢ per additional word Photo - $10.00

Shellbrook Chronicle Phone 306-747-2442

Fax 306-747-3000

email: chads@shellbrookchronicle.com

January 27, 2012

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Border CIty RV is currently looking for Marine Mechanic.

Mercury, Mercruiser, Evinrude experience an asset. Fax resume to Ken @ 780-875-3109.

HUFNAGEL LTD. is seeking a seriously committed, full-time

CLASS 1A DRIVER to haul fluid around the Lloydminster area.

Must have up to date oilfield tickets. Wage is based on experience.

Full Benefits, OT, HP, Yearly bonuses, accomodations, as well as company vehicle.

Call Kristin, 780-893-0120 or fax resume and abstract to 306-825-5344.

Speedway Moving Systems Requires O/O for our 1 ton and 3 ton fleets to transport RVs throughout N. America.

We offer competitive rates and Co. Fuel cards. Paid twice monthly-direct deposit.

Must have clean abstract and ability to cross border.

1-866-736-6483; www.speedwaymoving systems.com

TRADES & CONSTRUCTION HELP SASKATCHEWAN WORKERS WANTED CARSON ENERGY SERVICES, a Flint Company is seeking workers. Carson is hiring trade professionals for various locations in Saskatchewan. We offer competitive wages and benefits!

Please apply at www.flintenergy.jobs or call (866)-463-5468

HELP WANTED

Kingland Ford Journeyman Small Engine Technician wanted -Rigging boats packages, repairs & maintenance on ATV, Marine, Power Equipment and Motorcycles. Email resume: employment@ kinglandford.com fax:1(867)-874-2843

DOG LOVERS! Enjoy a healthy, profitable career as a professional dog trainer. Government accredited program student loans + grants available. www.wonder dogs.bc.ca/careers/ 1-800-961-6616 NEED A HOME PHONE? Cable TV or High Speed Internet?

We Can Help. Everyone Approved. Call Today.

1-877-852-1122 Protel Reconnect

AUTOMOTIVE

FEED AND SEED

Guaranteed approval drive away today! We lend money to everyone. Fast approvals, best interest rates.

Over 500 vehicles sale priced for immediate delivery OAC. 1-877-796-0514. www.yourapproved online.com.

HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

- GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!!

- BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!!

HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

BUSINESS SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Guaranteed record removal since 1989.

Confidential. Fast.

Affordable. Our A+ BBB rating assures employment/travel freedom. Call for free information booklet.

1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366).

RemoveYourRecord.com.

CAREER TRAINING Green careers are the wave of the future.

Prepare to enter this exciting field with environmental sciences training at Lakeland College’s Vermilion campus. Choose from four diploma majors.

Want a degree?

Lakeland’ s environmental management applied degree is one of only six programs in the country accredited by ECO Canada. Visit www.lakelandcollege.ca or phone 1 800 661 6490, ext. 8579.

Heavy Equipment Operator Training monthly courses Dozer, Grader, Excavator, Loader, Scraper. Tuition is $9700.00 Practicum Training Institute (306)955-0079 www.practicumtraining institute.ca E-mail: pti@sasktel.net

COMING EVENTS

Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS Wheat, barley, rye, triticale, feed pulses, spring threshed heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM Western Commodities 877-695-6461 www.westerncommodities.ca

FINANCIAL SERVICES MoneyProvider.com. $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure.

1-877-776-1660.

PAWN SHOP ONLINE: GET CASH FAST! Sell or Get a Loan for your Watch, Jewelry, Gold, Diamonds, Art or Collectibles - From Home!

ONLINE: www.PAWNUP.com or Toll-Free: 1-888-4357870.

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LAND FOR SALE THINKING OF SELLING FARMLAND? If you have farmland to sell in any part of Saskatchewan, I have buyers.

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TO BE SURE, deal with a licensed, experienced, high success rate Farm Land Real Estate Professional.

Contact me at; 306-530-8035 or Email harry@sheppardrealty.ca

HARRY SHEPPARD SUTTON GROUP RESULTS REALTY Regina, SK Specializing in Farm and Ranch Properties.

Shellbrook Chronicle

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A variety of homes in production or ready to ship Regina,SK 1-866-838-7744 Estevan, SK 1-877-378-7744 www.sherwoodhome.ca

SOLD EXAMPLES Bengough - 22 1/4’s Bethune - 2 1/4’s Blaine Lake - 245 acres Cupar - 5 1/4s Davidson - 6 1/4’s Elfross – 18 1/4’s Emerald – 22 1/4’s Eastend - 2 1/4’s Grenfell - 3 1/4’s Harwarden - 1 1/4’s Lestock - 5 1/4’s Lake Alma – 9 1/4’s Marcelin - 7 1/4’s Moose Jaw - 8 1/4’s Nokomis - 8 1/4’s Ogema - 36 1/4’s Prince Albert - 1 1/4’s Saskatoon - 2 1/4's Semans - 7 1/4’s Simpson - 10 acres Viscount - 3 1/2 Wadena - 4 1/4’s Wakaw West - 41/4’s Watrous/Young 30 1/2 Mobile Home Park Weyburn - 21 1/4’s Call DOUG 306-955-2266 EMAIL: saskfarms@shaw.ca Letter of Appreciation When we were approached by Mr. Doug Rue of Freshwater Holdings in July 2011, it was an opportunity for us to sell our farmland at a very fair price.

Mr. Rue visited our home and he explained the process, which went forward very quickly. We received payment on September 15, 2011. We appreciated Mr. Rue’s friendly and understanding manner.

There were no difficulties and he kept in touch throughout the transaction.

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Page 19

FOR SALE. 55 PLUS ACTIVE ADULT Living.

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FARMLAND WANTED QUICK CLOSING! NO COMMISSION! PASTURE LAND FOR RENT IN OGEMA & KAYVILLE HIRING FARM MANAGER WANTED: Buying all wild fur coyotes etc, Antlers and old traps.

Phone Bryon at 306278-2425 or Phil at 306-278-2299.

Page 20

Shellbrook Chronicle January 27, 2012

Lighten your tax burden

SCOTIA DONATES TO SKATING CLUB --Staff from the Shellbrook Scotiabank branch came through for the Shellbrook Skating Club as they hosted the Region 12 Invitational January 14-15. The staffers volunteered their time and the bank matched proceeds from raffle ticket sales, 50/50 and skating apparel sales totaling $1,559.00. Pictured here are Scotia staff member Dianne Ethier, Tasha Cyr and Leeta Harms of the Shellbrook Skating Club and Scotia staff members Ashley Barkway, Kelsey Fitch and Jacy Perkins.

It’s tax time again. If you owe tax, you must file your 2011 return before midnight on April 30, 2012 or risk unnecessary penalties. This means that now is the time to look into ways to lighten your tax burden.

“Nobody wants to pay more than they have to in taxes,” says Gary Dent, national tax leader for the accounting firm Grant Thornton LLP. “Take some time to learn about the savings opportunities available to you before you file this year.”

Here are a few valuable tips to help: File for refunds early: Are you anticipating a refund this year? If so, you should still file your return as early as possible. The earlier you file, the faster you get your return, partic-

NOTICE TO OUR SUBSCRIBERS

The Shellbrook Chronicle and

The Spiritwood Herald

IS YOUR SUBSCRIPTION DUE? 57.00 + 2.85 GST =

59.85/year “Have you considered giving a Gift Subscription to someone?”

ularly when you submit it electronically.

Review your tax strategy if you get a refund: Although you may look forward to receiving a tax refund, it is not always good planning to get one.

If you get a refund, it means the government has been holding your money without paying you interest, sometimes for many months. If you do get a refund, you may be able to apply to the CRA to obtain permission to have your source withholdings reduced.

Claiming after-school programs: After-school programs can qualify as an eligible childcare expense if it allows the parents to work. For example, if the alternative is arranging for babysitting or after school care, then the government may recognize an activity program as a qualified childcare expense. Children’s fitness credit: If you have children under the age of 16 at the beginning of the year, you may claim a tax credit of up to $500 for eligible fitness expenses paid for each of your eligible children. If you have a disabled child, the age threshold is extended to 18 years and the maximum credit is increased to $1,000. Keep in mind that you can’t claim a childcare expense and a fitness credit for the same payment.

Maximize tax credits for charitable donations: For 2011, the federal cred-

it is 15% on the first $200 of donations, and 29% on the rest. If you and your spouse or common-law partner collectively donated more than $200 last year, the tax credit will be larger if only one of you claims the entire amount.

Use an RRSP to increase the down payment for your first house: If you are planning on purchasing your first home and you’ve accumulated some RRSP contribution room, consider putting your down payment into an RRSP. You must wait 90 days to be eligible to withdraw it under the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), but you can then collect whatever refund is issued to bolster your down payment amount. Also, each spouse or common-law partner can withdraw up to $25,000, or $50,000 in aggregate (if purchasing jointly).

Tax credits for student loan interest: If you obtained federal or provincial loans to finance a post-secondary education, you can claim a tax credit of 15% of the interest paid in 2011 (or in any of the five receding years if not previously claimed).

Additional tax tips for individuals—and businesses—can be found in a free downloadable Tax Planning Guide at www. grantthornton.ca/services/ tax/tax guides. www.newscanada.com

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A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

JANUARY 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle Spiritwood Herald

BASICS OF ESTATE PLANNING PARTNER

ING

UP

How to find a financial planner you can trust

BUYING

Go Online to view this section!

Avoid these mistakes

www.shellbrookchronicle.com

A HOME

2

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

January 27, 2012

Learn the basics of home warranties Home warranties do not negate the need for homeowner’s insurance, but they can add protection against large monetary pay-outs to repair many items around the house. Policies may differ as to specific coverage, but most home warranties will cover major systems of the home, such as heating/cooling, plumbing, electrical, as well as certain appliances.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 3 4 5 6 7 7

Finding a financial planner you can trust Get government money to start saving for your child’s education Finding the right bank for personal banking Buying a home? Avoid these mistakes The basics of estate planning How to beat luggage fees Simple means to saving money

Why do our kids need a post-secondary education nowadays?

(NC)—In an increasingly competitive society, where more and more jobs require some sort of diploma or degree, it’s never been more important for parents to start talking about post-secondary education with their children.

Buying a home is arguably one of the largest purchases a person will make. It can also be one of the most stressful. Individuals take quite a financial leap when buying a home.

Even after careful consideration of funds and budgeting, it’s easy to become overextended. A home warranty can take some of the bite out of unexpected expenses.

Although home buyers are urged to hire an inspector and check a property and structure from top to bottom before signing on the dotted line, a home inspector cannot foresee everything that may crop up after a person moves into a home.

“When my home inspector reviewed the property he found only minor things that needed attention,” says Jeannine in New Jersey. “After I moved in, we shortly learned that the crawl space had flooding issues that would require a lot of money to fix properly.”

Home warranties can be a smart investment that take some of the financial pressure off of new homeowners. They can also be negotiated into the sale terms of the home so that the seller is responsible for providing the warranty to the new buyer.

To decide if a warranty is the right investment, home buyers should consider the following: • Home warranties are only as good as the company backing them. Careful investigation into the trustworthiness of the warranty company and its track record should be completed.

• Read the fine print of the warranty. Learn what exclusions exist, which may not make the warranty practical.

• Keep in mind that the warranty company reserves the right to determine if a repair or replacement is adequate in a claim situation.

• In general, warranty companies work with their own set of contractors. This means a homeowner may not be able to hire his or her own preferred contractors to do work.

• There may be a deductible or a fee charged prior to having a technician assess a repair situation.

• The warranty company may require inspection of the house to be sure items are in good working order before offering a plan.

• If a warranty is offered through a home seller, there may be no negotiation on the coverage or company used.

Home buyers should keep in mind that there are many unforseen expenses that can arise when purchasing a new home. Having some additional protection, such as a home warranty, could mean saving money on out-of-pocket repairs.

BUYING A NEW HOME? PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

After all, experts say Canada must take full advantage of a better educated population and a highly qualified workforce if we are to succeed economically and compete in a global economy. Also, a highly skilled workforce fosters innovation, social development and opportunities for individuals to advance in the labour market.

If you have children at home and your dream is to send them to college, university or trade school after they graduate from high school, there are many ways you can start the ball rolling.

Through the Canada Learning Bond (CLB) and the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG), the federal government gives money to parents to start saving now even if college or university is years away.

SASKATCHEWAN

NEW HOME WARRANTY

To find out more about the CLB and CESG, visit CanLearn.ca, call toll-free 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or visit your nearest Service Canada Centre.

Choosing a builder who belongs to the New Home Warranty Program ensures your new home is protected from problems that can occur with new buildings.

FOCUSED ON YOUR NEEDS

www.newscanada.com

CGA Prof. Corp.

You’ll be covered for*: • Your initial deposit up to $25,000 if the builder defaults • Defects in workmanship or materials for the first year • Exterior water penetration for two years • Major structural defects for five years Plus, you can get even more comprehensive coverage with the optional extended coverage for single family homes.

“Where Accounting is a ‘People’ Business” Your Small Business Specialist 54 Main Street – Shellbrook Sk

306-747-2225 Email: yvonne@groenenaccounting.com

To find out more, visit our website, or contact us today. *This is not a complete description of coverage. Contact the New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan for warranty details.

www.nhwp.org #4 – 3012 Louise St. E, Saskatoon

(306) 373-7833

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

Finding a financial planner you can trust

F

or those who have never worked with a financial planner before, finding the right fit can be difficult if not intimidating. Few have forgotten the likes of Bernie Madoff or the handful of so-called “mini Madoffs.” These people appeared to be trustworthy financial advisors or investment gurus only to be revealed as Ponzi schemers and white collar criminals when the world’s financial markets started to collapse.

With such schemers still fresh on the minds of prospective investors, it’s understandable to approach hiring a financial advisor with uncertainty.

But for every Bernie Madoff or R. Allen Stanford, there are many more trustworthy financial planners who truly want to help their clients grow their wealth and meet their financial goals.

When beginning the process of finding a financial planner, investors must take their time and exercise due diligence when vetting prospective planners.

There are also a few things men and women must know about the business before the process begins.

• Anyone can refer to himself as a financial planner. Financial planner is a rather broad term applied to a group of people who provide a varying degree of service. Some planners can assess every aspect of your finances — be it savings, investments, taxes, retirement, etc. — and help devise an effective plan to meet your financial goals. Other financial planners can only recommend their clients invest in a narrow range of products. When interviewing prospective planners, always ask what they can and cannot do. Investors often prefer a financial planner who can help with all aspects of their finances and not those whose scope is rather limited.

• Certifications vary. Some people who call themselves financial planners are not necessarily more qualified than the people for whom they’re working. Certifications vary, so always ask a planner to produce proof of his or her certifications. Certain credentials, including a CFP®, or Certified Financial Planner, or a CFA (Certified Financial Analyst) are more common than others, but, in the United States, financial planners who provide their clients with investment advice must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (www.

3

January 27, 2012

sec.gov). In Canada, the country’s federal Department of Finance (www. fin.gc.ca) supervises the regulation of financial institutions and investment dealers. Once a financial planner claims certfication, men and women should contact the above agencies in their respective countries to verify that certification. This might not be easy and will likely take some time, but it’s well worth it before just handing money over to a stranger.

Once you have done your homework and investigated prospective financial planners, verifying their backgrounds and that their certifications are current and they are in good standing with professional organizations and regulatory bodies, there are additional things to consider before making a final decision.

• References. Ask friends or family members if they can recommend any financial planners. Granted, this isn’t foolproof (many of Madoff’s victims knew each other), but it might help quell some of the fear associated with hiring a financial planner. Another way to get references is to simply ask the planner for two or more of his clients and contact them with any questions.

• Fees. Ask the planner how he or she gets paid. Fee-only planners don’t work on commission, but earn their money for the advice they provide. Fee-based planners might get some commissions for certain products, but the bulk of their earnings will come from the fee their clients pay. A planner whose earnings are commission-based is paid by the companies whose products he or she sells. Fees can vary from very cheap to expensive, but this also depends on the services the client needs. Don’t base the decision on a preconceived dislike of commissions or what planner charges the lowest fees. The goal is to get the best service possible, and if that costs a little extra, it may be worth it. But don’t automatically associate high fees with better performance or competent advice, either.

• Control. A financial planner is there to provide advice and assistance, but the client ultimately has the final say. Find a planner who recognizes the client is the one in control and respects a client’s opinions and concerns. Anything short of that is likely going to become a difficult and possibly disastrous relationship.

Get government money to start saving for your child’s education (NC)—While most parents dream of sending their child to university, college or trade school, those dreams may be harder to realize as the cost of an education after high school keeps rising. By starting to save early, a little goes a long way and with money from the federal government, it pays to save early for your child’s education.

You can get the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG), a government grant that is deposited directly into a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). This savings plan can be set up at your financial institution and serves as a valuable education savings vehicle for families with children. The earlier you or your relatives start putting money into the RESP, the more affordable post-secondary education becomes. And we know that a world of opportunity opens up for those who go to trade school, college or university.

If you think money is too tight to start saving, consider this scenario: let’s say that your family saves $2 a day, or approximately $700 a year, in an RESP. The federal government will give you a minimum of 20 per cent, or $140, in grant money. You can keep contributing until your child is ready to use the money for their education after high school. At $2 a day for 17 years the total amount in your child’s RESP can grow to well over $14,000.

More information about these government grants is available online at CanLearn.ca, by calling tollfree at 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or visiting your nearest Service Canada Centre. www.newscanada.com

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Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

4

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

January 27, 2012

Finding the right bank for personal banking When searching for a bank to do their personal banking, many people find banks aren’t all that different from one another. Banks offer similar services, and many have similar rules and regulations with regards to opening a personal account.

Though banks might be similar, the individuals who open accounts are anything but. And when it comes to finding the right fit to for personal banking, men and women should consider what’s most important to them before opening a new account.

ATM Accessibility No one enjoys paying ATM fees, and some people are more adept at avoiding them than others. If those fees have been catching up with you, look for a bank with branches or ATMs located near your home and your office, the two places you likely spend the most time. Nowadays, ATM fees can be as much as $2 when using another bank’s machine, and your own bank might also be charging you an additional $2 on top of that. If you rarely use another bank’s ATM, then ATM accessibility shouldn’t influence your decision too much. But if you are routinely spending $4 to access your own money, emphasize finding a bank with more accessible ATMs.

Two things are certain in life.

We’ll help you defer one.

Restriction and Penalties Men and women who struggle to maintain a minimum balance in their account should look for a bank with no minimum balance requirements. Such banks do exist, and these accounts are often most attractive to young professionals who are just getting on their feet. When discussing restrictions with the bank, also inquire about the penalties. If you have a problem maintaining a minimum balance, you might also find yourself bouncing a check or overdrawing on your account. If that’s a realistic possibility, find a bank that offers adequate overdraft protection, but beware that such protection typically comes at a hefty cost, oftentimes via a high fee.

Additional Needs Men and women who have a mortgage, car loan or other type of loan from a specific bank might want to consider making that bank their choice for personal banking as well.

That’s because banks will often entice borrowers to do their banking as well as their borrowing with them by offering perks like free checks, lowinterest credit cards and low-interest loans. In addition, some banks waive the minimum balance requirements for customers with multiple accounts.

The reliability of online banking services, be it on a computer or through a cell phone app, is something that bears considerable weight with consumers looking for a bank to handle their personal banking.

Technology Nowadays, many people go months if not years without ever stepping inside an actual bank. Online banking has made it easier than ever before to track spending, move around various accounts and pay bills. If online banking is especially important to you, find a bank that makes it easy to do your banking via the Web. Some banks charge for their online bill-pay services, while others don’t.

Another thing to consider is whether or not a bank has an app for your phone. If you are an on-the-go professional who uses a mobile device to do your banking, then you will want a bank with a reliable, secure and proven app for your phone.

Some banks have been slower to embrace this particular form of banking than others, so do your research into banking apps.

Come talk to us about your Investing or Lending requirements.

We offer most all products and services you can get from the banks along with our friendly and knowledgeable service.

Debden: 724 – 8370 Big River: 469 – 4944 Web: www.debdencu.com

TeleService® 1.866.863.6237

affinitycu.ca

“Building Futures Together”

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

5

January 27, 2012

Buying a home?

Avoid these mistakes

The dream of home ownership is one that lives on in spite of the global economic struggles. The process of buying a home can be an emotional roller coaster ride, with feelings of excitement mixed in with exhaustion, fear and uncertainty.

Over the last several years, the real estate market has been turned upside down, and many prospective buyers have begun to question some of the conventional wisdom associated with buying a home. While such skepticism might be a healthy attitude in the current market, prospective buyers — particularly those who have never purchased a home before — should avoid the following mistakes that buyers make regardless of whether the market is up or down.

Pigeonholing yourself into an inadequate living situation.

Just like buyers shouldn’t go overboard, they also must avoid compromising on the things that are most important to them. For example, many of today’s buyers, fully aware of the rash of foreclosures and all the housing horror stories of the last several years, are reticent to commit to a home, and might compromise with a condo or co-op. But if a home is what you really want, and another living situation that mirrors apartment life is going to make you miserable, don’t settle for that situation for the sake of security. Doing so could cost you financially, especially when you realize the situation isn’t what you’d hoped for and look to sell earlier than is ideal.

Failure to get qualified beforehand.

Being blindsided by additional costs.

Skimping on the cost of an inspector.

Mortgage qualification is essential when buying a home, as it gives buyers preapproval for a loan before they make any offers. Making an offer on a home before you know what the bank is willing to lend you is a waste of time for everyone involved, including you, the seller and the real estate agents involved. Some agents will not show a home if you don’t have a preapproval. Once preapproved for a loan, don’t take any steps that might put that approval in jeopardy. This includes anything that might drastically alter your credit score.

First-time homebuyers, once they have moved into their home, often experience some sticker shock when the additional expenses associated with home ownership arise.

These additional expenses include property tax and insurance costs and can be substantial.

Even those buying a condominium or co-op should expect monthly maintenance fees even if their new place is brand new and needs no maintenance.

An inspector is your last chance to find out if a home is your dream home or a money pit. Even if a house appears to be everything you want, don’t close on the sale until the house has been thoroughly inspected. The old adage that advises against judging a book by its cover certainly applies to buying a home, and prospective buyers should enlist the services of a qualified inspector before closing on the sale of a home.

Your New Home Is Waiting!

79,500

$

509 Highway Drive Spiritwood 4BD, 2BA home with many upgrades, and well maintained. EEF 05, 3 sheds, fully fenced yard MLS® 415097

165,000

$

RM of Spiritwood in Shell Lake area.

NW-36-49-9-W3, SE/NE 35-49-11W3. 3 quarters in a block, fully fenced.

MLS®417928

NOW REDUCED Shell Lake RM of Spiritwood New LOG home on $ 85,000 12 miles SE of Spiritwood, ¼ 13.65 acres, Close to RM of Spiritwood land NE-4-50-10-W3, 104 cult REDUCED $279,900 Memorial Lake Reg. $ 199,900 acres, 89 acres seeded to hay, Park & Golf Course, NE-23-49-11-W3 Quarter section 7.5 miles east, and 1/2 mile Call for more details, motivated seller!! Seller will consider selling 15 to barley, Fully fenced, Family home, wood boiler heat MLS# 416994 home/land seperately MLS®396237 south of Spiritwood.

Lot 1 Blk 1 142 North Rd Green Jewel Estates MLS® 414613 Leoville Located in beautiful 15 mins from Chitek Green Jewel Estates, Lake & Chamake$ $ 239,000 ses Resort, 3 bdrm, 179,900 Memorial Lake, Short drive to Shell Lake & Memorial Lake, Gas fireplace, sunroom, 2 bath, large landscaped lot. Double detached garage, heated $ MLS®390921 MLS®397860 workshop.

370,000 plank floor, 2 bthms, 2 bdrms 16 Pine Street 326 1 St. W, RM of Chitek Lake Spirtwood Round Hill, Large lot in the resort Village of 2 bedroom adult NE-14-48-13-W3 Chitek Lake, mature yard, fuly $ fenced, 3BD, 3BA, double at$ 275,000 only townhouse, ¼ land w/active gravel 98,000 Open concept, Bortached heated garage, 6 person pit, Total 146 acres, hot tub.

MLS# 413426 deaux maple cabinets, Last unit available so don’t miss out 140 cultivated MLS®418555 MLS®410743

142,900 Motivated Seller

$

$

119,900

Lot 3 BLK 6 Acreage RM of Spiritwood Resort Village of Big Shell close to Shell Lake

Upgraded 2 BD home, open concept, beautiful view, situated on 3 acres, wood/electric heat, 3 sheds, close to many lakes

MLS#412160

Lot is ready for you to build. 2 sheds w/power, elec. heat & AC, 1400 gal septic tank, mature lot, overlooks public reserve, no one will build infront of you. Short walk to main beach & boat launch.

MLS# 419487

45,000

$

105 2nd St West Spiritwood Revenue property, first time home buyer, commercial lot opportunity.

125X50 lot, home comes with fridge, gas stove.

MLS# 413377

2 Waterfront Lots PRATT LAKE Available at Green Jewel 2 Vacant serviced lots Pratt lake, $ 329,000 Estates Shell Lake/Memo$ $ well treed, 45 min from PA, 90 min 80,000/ 215,000 157 Chamakese Resort to Sasktoon. rial Lake, Serviced & ready to Chitek Lake $ 35,000/ea MLS# 408247 & 408253 build your dream home MLS®397695 & 397968 4 season WATERFRONT home Aspen Ridge built in 98, 4bd, 2ba, HE furnace/ Lot 2 Block Par 1, Spiritwood Perfect spot for Country Estate, Serair cond, single detached garage Estates viced 2.93 acre at Spwd G. Course, MLS#391312 Some building restrictions apply Located at Big Shell MLS®402710 $59,000 Lake, 21 serviced Lot 4, Spiritwood lots starting at Adjacent to Spiritwood Golf Course, 2 acre serviced lot, Some building restrictions apply, Call for more information! $69,000 $40,000, Call for all the details MLS®394419

Spiritwood Golf Course Subdivision

3.98 acre serviced lot in the subdivision by Spiritwood Golf course.

35,000

MLS®418993

45,000

MLS®415669

$

2.15 acre serviced lot in the subdivsion by Spiritwood Golf course. $

Lots 12 & 13

279,000 Spiritwood Acreage $

Only 3.5 miles south of Spiritwood,16 Acres, 1997 Family home 4 BD, 3BA, Barn, heated shop, 2 chicken coops, small corral systemsurrounding barn.

MLS#412181

259,000

$

Spiritwood Golf Course 2.36 acres, 1,764/2 sq. ft. vaulted ceilings, double attached garage.

REDUCED 124 Chitek Drive, Chitek Lake WATERFRONT on main beach, this is a 4 season cabin, 2 BD, 1 BA, updated floors, sunroom, lease of boat dock incl., taxes incl. 52 pump outs/year.

MLS#411254

$

MLS®417671

525,000

Inn On The 10th B&B Great Business Opportunity - BED & BREAKFAST, 2 Storey Country Victorian home on 4 acres, Can be sold as a B&B or as a family MLS®417559 Spiritwood MLS®419376 home

$

Shawna Schira-Kroeker YOUR LOCAL REALTOR®

of the Battlefords

1391-100th Street, North Battleford, SK

306-446-8800

Ag & Residential Properties

306-441-1625 ssk@littleloon.ca

www.remaxbattlefords.com Each Office Independantly Owned & Operated

75,000

117 - 2nd St. W Spiritwood Well maintained 3 bd home, Finished basement, HE furnace in 07, Hot water heater 08, Fenced, shed, Garden area MLS#409789

REDUCED to $263,000

602 Railway Ave Chitek Lake FULLY furnished cabin on 2 titled lots, Boat house, dock, Garage, shop, Call for complete list of inclusions MLS# 406481

REDUCED to $199,900

RM Of Spiritwood 6½ m. W & 3 m. N of Spiritwood, ¼ sect. NE 21-51-12-W3, Fully fenced, 107 cult. acres, 1,500 sq. ft. living space attach. to 50x100 shop

MLS®409495

6

January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

The basics of estate planning

Wilcox-Zuk-Chovin “Committed to Excellence”

Our law firm provides creative and comprehensive solutions by commitment to efficient, effective and personalized representation.

Kim Bradley

747-2641 52 Main Street, Shellbrook Shellbrook@wzclaw.com

883-2085 124 1st Street E., Spiritwood

922-4700 1200 Central Ave, Prince Albert princealbert@wzclaw.com

W

ith regards to finances, the future is a big part of many people’s financial planning efforts. Be it the kids’ college tuition or the day when retirement finally arrives, financial planning is all about the future.

their assets and determine to whom these assets should go if they die or who should gain control of them if individuals become incapacitated.

This means leaving no stone unturned. If there are any questions about specific assets, then legal wrangling or even government taxation upon these assets is likely to take place.

Though college and retirement funds garner the most attention, men and women must also make time for estate planning. Estate planning is the process of arranging for the disposal of an estate and is done to help minimize uncertainty upon an individual’s death. This planning also reduce taxes and additional expenses that might arise if a person passes away without having left a will or another means of disposing of his or her estate. Regardless of the size of an individual’s estate, there’s no reason not to have an estate plan in place. The following are some of the basics of estate planning, which should be a priority for men and women, young and old.

Understanding trusts

More than just a will An estate plan is more than just a will. Though an up-to-date and specific will is an important element of a good estate plan, there are other elements as well. In addition to a will, an estate plan should assign power of attorney, which gives a person of an individual’s choosing the right to manage that individual’s financial affairs if they are unable to do so themselves.

Power of attorney should be assigned in the case of a person’s death, but also if an unforeseen medical issue arises and a person is no longer capable of managing their affairs.

There are two types of power of attorney that are essential to know when estate planning.

Springing power of attorney goes into effect when circumstances that the individual specified, such as incapacitation, occur. In order for this to go into effect, the agent designated must typically produce proof of an individual’s incapacitation. Durable power of attorney goes into effect immediately and the agent does not need to prove incapacitation. When choosing an agent to assume power of attorney, individuals need to make this decision wisely, choosing someone they trust who can competently manage their affairs.

Assessing your assets Assets include a host of things, from investment accounts to real estate to retirement savings.

Individuals must take careful inventory of all of

Many people hear the word trust associated with financial dealings and immediately assume it only applies to the wealthy. Nothing could be further from the truth. A trust enables men and women to put conditions on the distribution of their assets upon their death, including when and how these assets will be distributed. In addition, a trust might just protect these assets from creditors or lawsuits and help any heirs avoid probate court, which can be a costly and tedious process. Though trusts aren’t necessarily for everyone, they also aren’t exclusive to the very wealthy.

Allocation of assets Many people make the mistake of leaving all of their assets to their spouses upon their deaths. While this is well-intentioned, it doesn’t always work out best for men and women with children. Individuals can leave an unlimited amount of money to their spouse upon their death, and that money cannot be taxed. However, when the surviving spouse dies, if he or she leaves that money to their surviving children, then they are likely going to pay significantly more in estate tax. In addition, when deciding to simply leave all assets to a surviving spouse, this is, in a sense, leaving the difficult decision of asset allocation to the surviving spouse. What’s more, should both husband and wife pass away in an accident at the same time and all assets were left to a spouse, this can make it very difficult, contentious and costly for surviving family members to divide up any assets left behind.

Estate planning is something few people will embrace with open arms. But as morbid as estate planning might seem, it’s a necessary step for adults who want to secure their own futures should they become incapacitated or the futures of their loved ones when individuals pass away.

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald

How to beat luggage fees

January 27, 2012

It’s now also commonplace for major carriers to charge for everything from booking a flight over the phone to inflight beverage service to meals or even a blanket. Naturally, some passengers are fed up with fees and are looking for ways to skirt extra costs wherever possible.

To avoid baggage fee charges, there are some things a passenger can do.

• Know limits. Airlines do not charge for a carry-on bag, provided it meets the dimensions and weight specified by the carrier. Charges for regular luggage may vary depending on size and weight as well. Be sure to find out the rules for your airline prior to packing so that you can cut down on costs as much as possible.

• Pack light. There’s no need to bring along your entire closet on a trip. Lay out separates that can be put together in a number of ways to limit the amount of clothing. Don’t pack toiletries. Chances are the hotel will provide them free of charge. In many cases, it could be cheaper to buy items at your destination than having to pay for baggage fees.

M

ost airlines today charge some sort of baggage fee. Whereas suitcases and other cargo were once included in the price of the ticket, and only cost extra to bring aboard if they were oversized, airlines looking to offset the rising cost of fuel have established new charges for passengers.

Some of these charges include various fees and surcharges, including baggage fees.

The revenue generated from the cost to travel with — of all things — the items necessary for the trip can lead to thousands of extra dollars for airlines.

In the first quarter of 2011, RITA, the Research and Innovative Technology Administration for the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, reported that Delta collected $197,971 in baggage fee revenue to rank No. 1 out of the major airlines. In contrast, USA 300 only collected $668 in baggage fees.

• Ship items ahead of time. If you can’t live without certain items on your trip, consider having them shipped to the destination. A little research could yield that you’re able to send 100 pounds of luggage via a ground shipping service for less than the cost of airline baggage fees.

Plus, you can pack many of the items that the TSA confiscates that are not allowed on an airplane, including liquids and even a nail file.

Shopping sales is a simple way to save, yet many people still don’t take advantage of sales. Whether grocery shopping, shopping for home furnishings or adding on to your wardrobe, shopping sales is a great way to save substantial amounts of money. When visiting the grocery store, sign up for the store’s club membership, which in many cases automatically earns you sale prices as long as you remember to swipe the club card before paying. When shopping for clothes, peruse the clearance racks, especially at the end of the season, when stores simply want to get rid of items and, as a result, mark them down heavily.

The items will still be wearable next season, and you will have saved a lot of money without doing much work.

Contact your credit card provider.

Credit card holders in good standing almost always have the means to saving money at their disposal. That’s because the credit card company will likely be willing to lower your interest rate if you are a customer in good standing.

Lowering the interest rate can save card holders significant amounts of money, but it’s still ideal for card holders to pay off their balances each month and avoid interest accruing in the first place.

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Try using my expertise to assist with your many travel options. Tropical holidays are my specialty.

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With my up-to-date training, you can be confident that your vacation will be perfectly planned, hassle free and filled with moments you’ll never forget.

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• Shop around. Base ticket purchases not only by the cost of the fight but by the cost of the extra fees and baggage charges. Compare what’s offered and use carriers that charge the lowest fees.

With airlines charging more and offering less, consumers are seeking ways to keep costs down. By packing light or shipping essential items ahead, you may be able to remove the cost and hassle of bringing luggage on board.

Simple means to saving money Shop sales.

Winter Fun Under The Summer Sun!

When speaking with a representative of your credit card company, discuss any additional benefits the company might provide. For example, some cards have an incentive program that provides cash back on qualifying purchases, which might include groceries or airline tickets.

If your card offers such incentives, take full advantage of them, just be sure to pay off the balance in full each month.

Pay extra each month on loans.

If paying extra money each month sounds like an odd way to save money, keep in mind that paying ahead on loans can substantially reduce the amount of interest that accrues over the course of the loan. Some loan agreements include prepayment penalties that actually penalize customers for paying ahead.

But if the loan agreement has no such penalties, sending a little extra each month reduces the loan’s principle faster, meaning borrowers will pay less in interest and pay off their loans faster.

Saving money is something many people insist they will start doing tomorrow. But it’s the little changes you make today that can add up to significant savings down the road.

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January 27, 2012

Shellbrook Chronicle/Spiritwood Herald