Spiritwood Herald Spiritwood, Saskatchewan Friday, January 13, 2017

VOL. 85 NO. 2 PMR #40007604

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Christmas concerts entertain

The entire student body of Hartley Clark Elementary sang Christmas carols. Spiritwood’s elementary schools joined hundreds of others across the province in holding Christmas concerts and other

activities prior to breaking for the holidays. Hartley Clark Elementary held theirs on Dec 20, and Rivier

More photos page 2 held theirs the next night. In both cases, the venues were jam packed with family and friends in enjoying the festivities.

Bed closures still in effect at Parkland Integrated Health Centre After much of 2016 saw Parkland Integrated Health Centre struggle with multiple acute care bed closures due to a shortage of nurses, there’s little evidence to suggest that this situation will change in early 2017. The ongoing reduction in acute care capacity, to 15 acute care beds from 20, is still in place at the health centre, and Prince Albert Parkland Health Region CEO was unable to provide a concrete timeline for the Shellbrook facility’s return to full capacity. However, she did explain that the closed beds are still seeing limited use “on an as-needed basis when the staffing is adequate.” The bed closures at Parkland Integrated Health Centre have been a recurring problem since the health region

announced the first reduction in in-patient capacity in December, 2015. That first closure of five beds lasted until the beginning of April. This was followed by a brief closure of 10 acute care beds from late August until the beginning of Oct., after the health centre ran into “temporary staffing challenges for registered nurses.” And currently, five beds remain closed Parkland Integrated Health Centre. Both of 2016’s closures were tied to a inadequate staffing levels for RNs and LPNs. These challenges have dogged the health centre since it opened its doors in 2013, and have also been experienced throughout rural and urban facilities across the health region over a number of years.

“Recruitment at the Shellbrook site, as well as many other rural sites, continues to be a challenge,” said Hunt, noting that the health region continues to rely on contract nurses to fill any vacancies that can’t be filled with permanent staff. “We’ve made enhancements to our recruitment initiatives, and we hope we will continue to be successful in our recruitment.” In its July budget, the health region approved the addition of one full-time equivalent RN to the long-term care facility at Parkland Integrated Health Centre, and Hunt adds that the health region is continuing to assess patient needs to ensure that a proper staff rotation is in place. Continued on page 11

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Christmas concerts entertain

January 13, 2017

Left photo, Hartley Clark Kindergarten class. Below, The Grade 6 class performed a skit.

Legion renos nearly complete

The shiny newly-refinished floor of the Legion Hall is a welcoming sight to those using or visiting the facility.

Renovations and improvements at the Spiritwood Legion Hall are nearing completion. Most of what remains to be done is outside, although there is some interior patching and painting to be done. So far, the lino in both the kitchen and bathrooms has been replaced, and the hardwood f loor has been sanded and refinished. As well, the electrical system has been upgraded and expanded, and the kitchen has a new countertop. Outside, a fence was put up to separate the Legion parking lot from the side storage area at Home Building Centre. Still to come is a new set of steps leading into the building, and a new front door The upgrades were made possible through the Canada 150 grant, which provide matching funds to the Legion based on fundraising of their own. Local groups and individuals responded well to the Legion’s campaign, resulting in a significant amount of money with which to carry out the improvements.

January 13, 2017

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Report from the Legislature

Government Announces Move to Single Provincial Health Authority Our government has accepted all of the recommendations of the Saskatchewan Advisory Panel on Health System Structure, and announced this week that the province will consolidate the 12 existing Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) into one single Provincial Health Authority. Our government is committed to providing high quality health services across Saskatchewan and our goal is better coordination between the health services provided in different parts of the province. This change will also reduce administration and duplication across the health system. The Advisory Panel has recommended the appointment

SCOTT MOE MLA ~ Rosthern Shellbrook Toll Free: 1-855-793-3422 www.scott-moe.com

of a single Board of Directors to govern the new Authority as well as system-wide improvements that include consolidation of administrative support functions, some clinical services, and the planning, dispatch and delivery of EMS. A comprehensive plan is be-

ing developed that will work through critical implementation details, including legislation, governance, financial and change management considerations. While there is no firm timeline for the establishment of the new Authority, it is anticipated to occur in Fall 2017. Saskatchewan Taxpayers Will Save Through Indexation Our government is committed to keeping Saskatchewan’s tax system fair and competitive, and yearly indexation is part of an array of measures aimed at accomplishing just that. All Saskatchewan income tax brackets and tax credit amounts will once again be indexed in 2017. This means individual taxpayers now pay no Saskatchewan income tax on their first $19,490 of income while a family of four pays no Sas-

katchewan income tax on their first $50,495 of income. This is the highest tax-free income threshold for a family of four in Canada. With these annual savings, combined with the income tax cuts we introduced in 2008, that means: • A single person with a $25,000 annual income saves almost $1,000 each year; • A family of four with $50,000 combined income saves $2,694 each year; and • A family of four with $75,000 combined income saves $2,484 each year. Various reductions to personal income taxes will save Saskatchewan people more than $490 million in 2017, and have resulted in about 112,000 low-income residents being removed from the income tax rolls entirely. We will continue working to protect your pocketbook and

keep taxes low. Tougher Impaired and Distracted Driving Laws Now In Effect Tougher impaired driving legislation was passed in the fall, with strengthened laws taking effect January 1, 2017. • Experienced drivers who are charged for the first time with having a blood alcohol content (BAC) over .04 will have their vehicle seized for three days; • There will be zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol for all drivers 21 and under and all new drivers; and • Ignition interlock laws will be the strongest in Canada, with mandatory ignition interlock for drivers who register a BAC of .16 or greater or refuse to provide a breath sample (1st offence - two years; 2nd offence - five years; 3rd and subsequent offence 10 years).

To help prevent distracted driving, the cellphone law has expanded from “using” a cellphone while driving to “holding, viewing, using or manipulating” a cellphone while driving. The following applies under both the current and new cellphone law: • All drivers are prohibited from using hand-held cellphones. • Experienced drivers can use hands-free devices, but new drivers can’t. • If the cellphone is mounted on the dash, clipped to the visor or in a cradle, it’s considered hands-free and it’s OK for an experienced driver to use it, provided they can access the phone with one touch of a button or voice commands. You can visit SGI’s website at www.sgi.sk.ca for more information about these changes.

Take home Naloxone kits now available By Doug Dahl As part of Saskatchewan’s expanding Take Home Naloxone program, kits will be available in Prince Albert beginning Monday, January 9, 2017. “It is important that people are aware of the health risk posed by opioid drugs, such as fentanyl, that are mixed and sold illegally, and ensure that resources, such as the Take Home Naloxone kits, are in place to potentially save lives,” said Dr. Khami Chokani, Medical Health Officer. “We also want to engage people in the care and treatment for their drug addiction.” Naloxone is an antidote to opioids such as fentanyl, morphine, heroin, methadone or oxycodone. It is in use in Saskatchewan as an opioid overdose treat-

ment practice in emergency departments and by paramedics in emergency situations. When administered properly, Naloxone can restore breathing to an individual experiencing an overdose. Take Home Naloxone kits will be available free of charge to individuals at risk of an opioid overdose. They will be provided education on overdose prevention, as well as recognition and response (including naloxone administration). Training will also be available to those who may witness an overdose. “Take Home Naloxone Kits do not replace the need for immediate treatment by trained medical professionals for anyone who has overdosed on fentanyl or any drug,” said Dr. Chokani. “If you suspect

someone has overdosed, the best thing you can do is call 9-1-1. The use of a Take Home Naloxone kit may – in the event of an opioid overdose – buy some critical time for first responders to reach the patient and begin treatment.” Fentanyl is an opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin, oxycodone or morphine. It is a prescribed painkiller that is often added to illegal drugs without people knowing. Overdose deaths attributed to fentanyl have recently been rising across Canada. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is providing $50,000 in 2016/17 to fund Take Home Naloxone programs in the Saskatoon, Regina

Sandwith Christmas Music afternoon raises over $700 It was the 13th annual Christmas Music afternoon in Sandwith Community Hall, that the St. Philip’s Presbyterian group have sponsored. About 80 people attended the December 18th program, to participate or just enjoy the singing and the good variety of excellent talent. The perform-

ers came from a wide area to sing or also play their musical instruments. Rev. Doug Codling gave a brief Christmas message and the youngsters, and those young at heart, were thrilled at the end of the program, when a very jovial Santa arrived. Almost everyone stayed to visit and enjoy a coffee and the

tasty lunch items many ladies had brought. The collection taken earlier for the Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund, set a record with the amount of $703.75, bringing the total contributed over the last 13 years to nearly $5,000. Submitted by F. Grant

Qu’Appelle, Prairie North, Sunrise and Prince Albert Parkland health regions. The Take Home Naloxone Kits are available through Access Place, 101

15th Street East, Prince Albert. There is a training program to ensure proper use by individuals who are asking for the kits.

17012MM3

Individuals interested in more information about Take Home Naloxone Kits are asked to contact 306765-6542.

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OPINION www.spiritwoodherald.com

January 13, 2017

“Still trusting” What I should have done, of course… Wait. How many of you have said that yourself at one time, knowing full well that by the time you were in the middle of something and really struggling, that at an earlier stage in the adventure there was a way to guarantee a much better outcome. We were going to hit just two stores in the shopping area known as Edmonton South Common, or South Edmonton Common. And by “hit” of course I mean we were going to do a bit of shopping. As it turned out, the Common is very easy to get to, at least if you are coming in from the south on the QEII. Many people don’t like driving the QEII, which consists of several lanes of traffic with everyone in a bejesus-big hurry to get somewhere. It is perhaps the most intense stretch of roadway anywhere, even worse than Saskatoon. DAVE My navigator used her cellHYNDMAN phone to Google the first of the ~ two stores, and with the map News Editor the result provided us with, we were able to make sure we stayed on the right path. As you come into Edmonton from the south, you are faced with a number of choices. The first of those choices are a couple of options to avoid Edmonton altogether. Smart motorists take these. However, we were in search of Edmonton Common, so we prevailed, past the Anthony Henday exits, which are the final options available to avoid Edmonton. Smart motorists take these. The Anthony Henday is a great idea. It is a Circle Drive that actually circles the city. Normally, we come in from the south, take the Anthony Henday up the east side and come out on the Yellowhead pointed towards Saskatchewan. Trips to Calgary are the opposite. We come in from the east, circle around the east side and come out the south headed towards Calgary. But this time, we were in search of Edmonton Common, and to get there, we stayed on the straight and narrow with all the other crazy drivers, and found a right-turn lane that took us right into the shopping area. But not directly to the store. For some reason, we were caught in a line of cars, all of which were waiting for some kind of service truck to clear the intersection. And once cleared, the line of cars seemed to all be wanting to make left turns, having to inch around a small car that had been in a bit of a fender bender, no doubt caused by someone making that left turn. Eventually, it was our turn to scramble across the intersection around the back end of the stalled vehicle, and into a parking space not too far from the store. I went into the store to help the shopper shop. That may sound odd to most people. After all, just what kind of help am I going to be able to give? When it comes to shopping, I have to admit that I’m really not much help at all, at least when it comes to picking things out. No, my main value as a shopper’s assistant is to stand in line after she has found something. That way, her place is assured and she is free to go find other stuff that I would have been absolutely no help in locating. What I should have done, of course… Instead of going into the store, I should have stayed in the car and reprogrammed my GPS to the address of the second store we were going to get to. I didn’t want to, as the GPS was showing us how to get to our hotel, and I didn’t want to lose it. I should have known better. But at least I Googled the second store, and found the address and the little map that showed me that I was just this far from that second store, and I should get there in a few minutes with only two left turns. But, I couldn’t have been more wrong. I could finish the adventure, but I see I’m out of room.

Paul Martin Commentary

A Little Black Ink One of the economic drivers or indicators that has been The provincial economy, despite the headlines we’ve gaining in importance in the province is investment, more been seeing, is showing some life. specifically business investment. It was the principal force At least that’s the view of the economists at BMO Bank behind the economic expansion of the past decade so we of Montreal. Their latest quarterly forecast says the Sas- track it fairly closely. katchewan economy will grow about a half point in 2016. And its on the rise again after a pull-back when expanMost other reports which show us in negative sion of the potash mines was completed. territory. StatsCan has revised its latest figures – for the The bank also says next year will see further third quarter of the year – which show an ingrowth of roughly 1.6 percent. crease. It was up roughly $40 million or about The BMO variation, however, is not painting 10 per cent compared to the same period a year a different picture. The only thing is timing. earlier. Most of the economists have said 2016 will be Total spending on new plant, equipment and a down year with a significant rebound next technology touched the half billion mark – the year. BMO is saying the same thing, only that high water level for the last 18 months - for a the improvement has already taken hold and three-month period back in the first quarter of some of the gains will be evident in this calenthe year. In Q3 of this year it sat at $480 million, PAUL dar year. not too far off the high point. MARTIN One other interesting note in the BMO reThe increase was largely the result of investport looks at the debt levels of governments ment in Saskatoon. In Regina, spending was ~ across the country. The newly-revised defidown on commercial and industrial activity cit numbers for Saskatchewan mean overall while Saskatoon held its own. Both cities saw an public debt is just under 10-percent of GDP, increase in the amount of money being spent on second-best in the country. Compare that to Ontario where government infrastructure. the debt is 40 per cent of GDP and Quebec is nearly 49 per Sweet Honey cent. This province is claiming a larger share of production of Job Numbers Improve at least one specialty food product in this country. The state of the labor market in the province improved The value of honey produced by colonies across the counin November. try fell last year. And it was down sharply – about 25 perThe monthly figures on job numbers showed an increase cent. The biggest declines were in Alberta and Manitoba of nearly 3,000 positions from October to November of this where the dollar value of honey production declined by year but that’s still nearly 10,000 fewer than a year ago. more than 35 percent. When the numbers came out last month, the year-overIn Saskatchewan, though, it was a completely different year drop was approaching 11,000, a significant departure story. from previous reports where the erosion was less dramatic. The value of production here actually went up. Just The reduction is now 9,800 – a move in the right direction. what set us apart from the other Prairie Provinces is not And it was full-time work that made the difference. We explained in the annual StatsCan report on honey output, saw the population grow in the month, the number of peo- however, it a stark difference. ple holding a job or looking for one also rose. Yet the unemRevenue for the industry in Saskatchewan topped $27 ployment rate fell which is a sign that last month’s big fall million in 2016. That’s an improvement over 2015 but is represents the bottom of the trough. However, one month lower than previous years as prices have fallen. Total prodoes not make a trend so the next report will tell us if the duction rose about 4 million pounds but revenues rose only rebound is in place or November was an aberration. $1 million, underscoring how much of an impact lower The big story here is that the work force continues to prices have had on the industry. grow and but not quite as quickly as new job formation. Nonetheless, it remains a popular business as the numCapital Spending Up ber of producers rose by 50 per cent in the past five years.

January 13, 2017

For most of us, it’s an easy and simply solution to ask Saskatchewan public servants to do their part to tackle the province’s billion-dollar deficit. But for Premier Brad Wall, it’s also a problem if his own making. Consider the wages at SaskPower. According to the 2015-16 Crown Payee Disclosure – the detailed spending at our publicly own Crown corporations including wages – 1,797 of 3,777 SaskPower employees were earning more than $100,000 a year. Total payroll was $344.8 billion in 2015-16, so the average wage was $91,289 a year. Just a decade or so earlier in 2004, there were only 164 SaskPower employees earning six figures a year – an average of $73,509 per year. So in about a decade, SaskPower payroll has nearly doubled and the average SaskPower

VIEWPOINT www.spiritwoodherald.com

Wall is why rollbacks are needed wage has increased 24 But you are getting per cent. the picture. Of course, most of it The last budget of occurred under Wall’s the NDP government watch. in 2006-07 had operAnd it can be argued ating expenses of $7.7 that SaskPower emmillion – about $3.7 ployees haven’t done million more than nearly as well as other when the NDP took public servants like power 16 years earlier. MURRAY Saskatchewan’s regisHowever, according tered nurses. to the mid-year upMANDRYK Notwithstanding the date for the 2016-17 ~ Sask. Party’s introbudget, government duction of its Essenspending in a decade tial Services legislahas doubled, a $7-miltion (later struck down by the lion increase in government Supreme Court of Canada) in spending to $14.7 million. 2008, the Saskatchewan Union The political issue isn’t so of Nurses (SUN) were greeted by much that employee wages make 36-plus-per-cent wage increase up 60 per cent of government over the next four years from spending, as Wall correctly obthe newly elected Wall govern- served in a series of year-end ment. Nurses’ contracts since interviews with reporters. have been more in line with the The issue is that Wall’s governtwo- or three-per-cent annual ment has been a fully responwage increases of SaskPower sible for wages and government employees. spending increasing even more

Pallister plays Robin to Wall’s Batman

Dear Editor: If the policy fight against a carbon tax were a superhero movie, Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall would be Batman – that’s obvious. But it was surprising to see the role of Robin go to Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister. Together, they were the only premiers who refused to sign on to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s carbon tax scheme at the recent first ministers meeting. Premier Wall attacked the carbon tax head on. He hammered the fact that carbon taxes make everything more expensive without helping the environment, as British Columbia has proven with rising emissions despite its $30 per tonne carbon tax (6.7 cents per litre gas tax). He struck again with the argument that carbon taxes cause many sectors, such as agriculture, to struggle because competitors such as United States have no intention of implementing a carbon tax. Premier Wall’s arguments were more than mere rhetorical gadgets.

Spiritwood Herald Serving the Communities of Spiritwood, Shell Lake, Leoville, Chitek Lake, Mildred, Rabbit Lake, Medstead, Mayfair, Bapaume, Belbutte, Glaslyn A Division of Pepperfram Limited Publications Mail Registration #07621

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rapidly in the past nine years than they were increasing under the previous administration. “I hope there’s goodwill and good faith on the part of provider unions and managers and people that work in the public service to realize that even what’s being paid right now might not be sustainable,” Wall told The Canadian Press. “At some point, I think we have to determine in the long-term interest of the province, do we engage in layoffs or rollbacks… “That doesn’t always happen in government. Maybe we need to have that conversation and see if we can avoid what might be dramatic layoffs.” This is likely true. But can Brad Wall make the argument – in good faith – when it was his government negotiating these huge wage increases in the past decade? In the case of the 2008 36-plus-per-cent increase given

YOUR TWO C ENTS ~

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to the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses, it was deemed an unnecessary move even at the time. Moreover, Wall has been even more generous in the wage increases he has paid to individuals on his own staff in the past decade – many of whom have seen fantastic increases in pay for nothing more than a change in job title. And then there is the little matter of Wall increasing the legislative assembly by three more MLAs. Credit Wall for acknowledging that he knows this move will be unpopular. “I’m not prepared to sort of kick this can down the road like provinces used to do in the ’80s or even like some are doing today,” he said. But if layoffs or wage cuts are now necessary, they have been made necessary by Wall’s own decisions.

“Since 2010, B.C.’s GHG emissions have increased every year,” said Marc Lee, an economist at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. “With farmers already sinking carbon and improving our environmental footprints every year, it would be a perverse public policy decision to punish us for already achieving the desired outcome,” said Levi Wood, president of the Western Canadian Wheat Growers. “I can’t pull my air seeder with a Prius.” While Premier Wall pounded the prime minister’s carbon tax plan, Premier Pallister snuck in his opposition. He said he wouldn’t sign on to a carbon tax until the federal government addressed healthcare funding issues. Premier Pallister has a point. Prime Minister Trudeau devoted ample time to hear lame-duck American Vice President Joe Biden expound about climate change policies while trimming time in the schedule for healthcare discussions. Meanwhile, many Manitobans suffer on unacceptably long wait-lists for routine procedures. There are also political considerations at play. Premier Wall is the nation’s most popular provincial leader with a 58 per cent approval rating largely because of his strong opposition to carbon taxes. Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne is a political leper with approval ratings falling to 16 per cent as disastrous energy and environmental policies that have sent hydro bills soaring. It doesn’t take a PhD in political science to compare and contrast the consequences of following either example. There’s also the fact that Premier Pallister doesn’t have the mandate to sign on to a carbon tax scheme. The Progressive Conservative platform includes a vague, 20-word point about developing a

made-in-Manitoba plan for carbon pricing. But there’s nothing in there about saddling Manitobans with soaring prices at the pump or hitting them with higher home-heating bills. In fact, the Manitoba government remains secretive about its specific carbon tax policies. It responded to a freedom-of-information request regarding carbon taxes with a refusal to release anything – not a single page. Even the federal government gave a slight nod to transparency by releasing a heavily censored internal document that acknowledges a carbon tax would “cascade throughout the economy.” More importantly, Premier Pallister cannot sign on to a carbon tax without calling a referendum. To do so without presenting a clear plan and calling for a vote would be a damning admission that the government isn’t confident that Manitobans support a carbon tax. While the PC platform is vague on carbon pricing, it’s crystal clear that Manitobans have the right to vote on all “major” tax increases and there’s nothing minor about a carbon tax. Confidence is one of the biggest differences between Batman and Robin. In the fight against carbon taxes, Premier Wall is absolutely certain he has the strong support of Saskatchewanians for his opposition to a carbon tax, while Premier Pallister continues to struggle with his stance on the unpopular policy. Hopefully, Premier Wall can count on Premier Pallister to take a stronger stand next time Prime Minister Trudeau demands their signatures on a carbon tax scheme. Todd MacKay, Prairie Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation

C. J. Pepper, Publisher

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Dave Hyndman, Reporter 306-883-2398 Madeleine Wrigley, Advertising Sales [email protected] Kathleen Nording, Composition/Pagination [email protected] Meghan Penney, Composition/Pagination [email protected] Cheryl Mason, Bookkeeping/Reception [email protected] 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.spiritwoodherald.com

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

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January 13, 2017

Hello Columbus! NHL`s jackets are on fire!

The Columbus Blue Jackets? Really? When the National Hockey League took its threeday Christmas break, the Blue Jackets enjoyed turkey and all the trimmings, the trimmings including a nice red ribbon around the NHL’s best record. Coach John Tortorella’s Blue Jackets had only five losses at the Christmas break, three fewer than next-best, Pittsburgh and Washington. Columbus faced a stern test in the final week before the Christmas break, coming off a successful Western swing and then having three home games in four days — the final two on back-to-back nights against Eastern powers Pittsburgh and Montreal. The result? A 7-1 shellacking of Sidney Crosby’s Pens, and a 2-1 win over Montreal, the team’s 12th straight win. A surprise? Yes, absolutely. The upstart Blue Jackets, who have made the NHL playoffs only twice in their 16-year history, finished last season with the

fourth worst record in the league. Teams simply don’t go from almost worst to among the best in one season, do they? So what’s changed? The intense Tortorella is in his first full season behind the bench. The play of rookie defenceman Zack Werenski, 19, has been sublime. He’s the highest-scoring rookie defenceman in the league and has the best plus-minus mark among first-year blueliners. The Jackets have no quit. This is the team that had a player, Matt Calvert, take a puck off his forehead, get 36 stitches, and return to the game to score the game-winner. Shorthanded, no less. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky (GAA under 1.90, with a .935 save percentage) will be in the allstar game. Journeyman Sam Gagner has finally found a home, among the team leaders in goals. Cam Atkinson and Alex Wennberg are emerging as two of the NHL’s best forwards. Brandon Saad and Nick Foligno are solid and dependable vets. And the

BRUCE PENTON ~ Columbus defence, led by ex-Western Hockey Leaguers Ryan Murray and Seth Jones, is among the best units in the league. Tortorella has his team playing at a high-octane pace, moving the puck quickly and tenaciously forechecking opponents into mistakes. They’re a fun team to watch and the resulting success is fun for the players, and fans. It has been quite a run lately for Ohio sports teams. Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA title in June. Cleveland Indians came within a whisker of winning the World Series. Ohio State Buckeyes are

two wins away from the college football national championship. And now the Blue Jackets are carrying the Ohio torch on the ice. Thirty-two games does not make a season but as far as half-seasons go, fans in Columbus are anything but blue about their redhot Jackets. • NOTSportsCenter, on the Bears-49ers game in early December: “Before getting benched, Colin Kaepernick finished his day 1 for 5 for 4 yards and was sacked 5 times for a QB rating of ‘drunk Tim Tebow’.” • Pro golfer Russell Knox, via Associated Press, on Tour players’ reaction to Tiger Woods return at the Hero World Challenge in December: “When I saw he was four under through eight, I wanted to withdraw so I could go watch him.” • Janice Hough of LeftCoastSportsBabe.com, on reports that 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick plans to become a free agent after the season: “Wow. He should be about as sought-after as

49ers season tickets.” • Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “Lack of sleep costs American employers $411 billion a year in lost productivity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Suggested remedies range from sleeping pills to Browns season tickets.” • Mike Bianchi of the Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel, after Patriots star Rob Gronkowski’s third career back surgery ended his season: “Sadly, it’s looking more and more like he might well be the Tiger of tight ends.” • Barry Gibbons, who was on schedule to play 850 rounds of golf in 365 days during 2016, all walking, on how his accomplishment is viewed: “People are either envious, or they think I’m nuts.” • Pat Forde of Yahoo! Sports, on why there will always be a TV market for second-rate bowl games: “Because watching Eastern Michigan-Old Dominion is still better than listening to uncle Bob rehash the presidential election”

• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “Prior to Carolina’s 40-7 trouncing by the Seattle Seahawks, Panther’s QB, CamNewton was benched for one play for not wearing a tie. Not having a tie, however, did not keep Cam from choking.” • Brad Dickson of the Omaha World-Herald: “College football bowl season is here. I’m probably most looking forward to the Boise State Broncos playing the Baylor Bears in the inaugural Alliteration Bowl.” • Headline at SportsPickle.com: “Vontaze Burfict asks NFL if wearing a handgun in his waistband would be considered a uniform violation.” • Jack Finarelli, at the s p o r t s c u r mu ge o n .c om: “When Chip Kelly has to decide which QB to put on the field (either Colin Kaepernick or Blaine Gabbert), it is like he is deciding whether he would rather be hanged or shot.” Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo. ca

Prince Albert Parkland Health Region volunteer opportunities The Prince Albert Parkland Health Region is in need of caring, compassionate and committed vol-

unteers to fill the following service positions: Pet Therapy – Hafford Special Care Home (306)

FORM H [Section 66 of the Act]

Notice of Call for Nominations Rural Municipality of Medstead No. 497 PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of: Councillor: Division No. 2 will be received by the undersigned on the 1st day of February, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Municipal Office. Nomination forms may be obtained from the municipal office. Dated this 12th day of January, 2017. Christin Egeland Returning Officer

TEAM

For the Estate of Marie Kroeker Auction Sale Saturday January 14th, 2017 @ 10:00 am - Medstead, SK Medstead Community Hall Household, Shop, Yard, Garden, Antiques and Collectables. Marie and her family have been long-time residents of the Medstead area. We are happy to help the family as they offer the quality household items that Marie had for auction. Please stop by and visit the family, share a story or two, and bid on high quality household items.

549-2108 Volunteers with welltrained, friendly pets may visit the residents at the Nursing Homes. The pets must meet the necessary requirements prior to visiting. Shifts: Once or twice per week: Flexible hours. Activity Programs – Evergreen Health Centre, Leoville (306) 984-2136 Volunteers assist staff with activities and set up for such. Depending on the needs of the facility, duties may include assisting with crafts, shopping trips,

birthday parties, special functions, music therapy, exercise programs, bowling groups, horticulture, painting, baking, etc. Shifts: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. or 12:45 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday - Friday Special Groups or Individuals – Spiritwood and District Health Complex (306) 883-4432 These volunteers entertain, give presentations, prepare birthday parties, provide cakes, sing, etc. for the patients and residents. If you are interested in this

Buying? Selling? Classifieds Work! 306-747-2442 PRINCE ALBERT RAIDERS HOCKEY SCHEDULE Fri., January 13 ~ 7 p.m

Visit our website or check out our Facebook page for a more detailed listing.

P.A. VS Red Deer

BOECHLER-SCHIRA AUCTIONEERING

Come for the Game, Stay for the Party!

Prov. Lic. #332982 Box 552, Spiritwood, SK Fred Walter 306-883-2797 • Cell: 306-883-7368 Kelly Schneider 306-342-4647 • Cell: 306-386-7110

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or any other Volunteer service position, or if you have a particular skill or talent you would like to share with the patients, residents or clients in the Health Region, please call your local health care facility to apply. You can also reach the PAPHR Volunteer

Services Department at (306) 765-6010, by email at [email protected] or find us on the web at www. paphr.ca. We look forward to matching your talents and interests with the right position for you.

Witchekan Wildlife Federation Inc.

Annual Banquet & Awards Night

Saturday, January 21, 2017 Spiritwood Civic Center Cocktails - 5 p.m.; Supper - 6 p.m.; Dance - 9 p.m. (Bannock Country) Adults $25; 10 & Under $12.50; Preschool Free For tickets call: Lyla 306-883-9284; Pearl & Eric 306-883-2835; Jim 306-984-4514 Photo Contest - Categories include: Scenery, Hunting, Fishing & Wildlife. Pictures must be printed on 8x10 Kodak paper & can be submitted the day of banquet.

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It would have been more than a decade ago two people who had been doing missionary work stopped in the office, and I was assigned the interview. Whenever you interview someone about something they are passionate about, it is generally a smooth undertaking, with a good story likely. But as we came to the end of the interview they offered me a traditional snack from where they had been doing their work. It was a surprise when out came a tub of dried crickets, seasoned albeit with a barbecue flavour. I was game, and while

AGRICULTURE www.spiritwoodherald.com

Bugs as protein in our future? I noted that the likelihood of the little bugs becoming an Old Dutch treat, they were not the worst thing I had eaten, after all there are BrusOn Agriculture sels sprouts lurking out there. The idea of eating bugs is pretty well unknown in Canada, if you don’t count shrimp and lobster which are essentially bottom feeding ocean bugs. That said insects are eaten by many cultures, in particular indigenous populations in many regions of the world. I recall at the time doing some investigation into bug eating, and crickets were generally

Calvin Daniels CALVIN DANIELS ~ pointed too as the most obvious critter to add to a menu. There are several reasons, which includes; crickets being “gramfor-gram one of the most efficient protein creators on the planet. By dry weight, a single

cricket ranges between 65 per cent – 70 per cent pure protein. In contrast, beef is between 17 per cent – 40 per cent protein, with the rest being primarily fat content. But what about the quality of the protein you ask? Interestingly enough, cricket protein is a form of animal protein, which means it registers as a “complete” source of protein. What this means is that it contains all the essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAA’s) that the human body needs for muscle development,” notes www.cricketflours.com Granted the website

promotes the idea of eating bugs, but the information found there is certainly interesting. What brought all this back to mind was a recent Western Producer article on Jarrod Goldin who formed Entomo Farms with his two brothers, Darren and Ryan, in 2014. They grow crickets, mealworms and other worms that are dehydrated and ground into powder that is sold to food companies to make human and pet food. The initial product made with the insect powder was energy bars that are sold in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, the

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United States and Canada. In the article Goldin notes the business started in large part to a 2013 white paper put out by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations titled Edible Insects: Future Prospects for Food and Feed Security which basically contemplated that without insects entering the food and feed chain, the world will not be able to sustain feeding everyone. The idea of eating bugs won’t catch on anytime soon here I am sure, but it does raise interesting thoughts toward our food future.

Integrated weed management Joanne Kowalski PAg, Regional Crops Specialist Prince Albert Over the past decade, an increase in the number of herbicide resistant (HR) weeds has caused researchers and producers to look for weed control management systems that can diminish the rate of occurrence. Right now, there are 461 unique cases of herbicide resistant weeds around the globe: • The rapid increase in Group 9(EPSP synthase inhibitor) or glyphosate resistant weeds over the past 20 years is of large concern because of the quick increase from zero in 1995 to 30 in 2015. • Resistance to Group 2 herbicides, which are protein production inhibitors, has seen the fasted rise from zero species in 1985 to over 160 in 2015. • Groups 5, 6 and 7 (photosynthesis inhibitors) together have the next highest number of resistant species, increased from zero in 1985 to 105 in 2015. • Group 1 (ACCase inhibitors) is next at zero in 1985 to just over 45 in 2015. • Group 4 (synthetic auxins/growth regulator) has increased steadily since 1985 from zero to 30 in 2015. Canada has 60 spe-

cies verified as herbicide resistant. In Saskatchewan, there are about 13 HR weeds. Of concern in Saskatchewan for Group 2 resistance are: cleavers, kochia, wild oat, chickweed, shepherd’s purse, wild and ball mustard, redroot pigweed, Russian thistle, stinkweed and hemp nettle. Group 1 includes Persian darnel and green foxtail (also Group 3) and for Group 9 it is kochia. During the adoption of zero-tillage practices over the 1990-2005 period, the use of an integrated approach to weed management and control was an important part of the extension message from the Saskatchewan Soil Conservation Association. An integrated weed management, or a “many little hammers” approach,is acknowledged as necessary in order to manage the increase. The hammers include: • Seeding Rate: increased seeding rate can provide better crop competition. But it is more expensive. • Row Spacing: narrower row spacing in studies shows lower weed biomass especially when combined with higher seeding rates. • Fertilizer Placement: placing the fertilizer into the soils rather than

broadcasting shows crops are more competitiveness and yields are improved. • Seed Size: using larger seeds can reduce weed biomass and seed production. • Seeding Date: earlier the better to allow the crop to get a head start on establishment interfering with weed seed ability to germinate and growth as they are biologically adapted to faster development. A N/S seeding orientation results in shade between rows where weed seeds may be trying to germinate and grow • Competitive Cultivars: are of course better competitors with weeds especially when combined with other methods. • Silaging / Green Feed can reduce weed seed populations; and using perennial crops in rotation is great competitor for reducing weed populations. • Of course, rotating herbicide groups is always a good idea. Integrated weed management that recognizes the use of multiple methods of control both agronomic and chemical is now a vital function of overall production management. “None of individual control measures provide acceptable control on their own”, says Eric Johnson of the Crop Development Centre (Agronomy Research

Update 2016). For more information,

please contact your local regional office or the Ag-

riculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

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Cameras installed at curling rink

Now, the wizards behind the glass will have a little better idea what is going on at the other end. We refer, of course, to the tv monitors in the lobby of the curling rink and the cameras located over each of the four houses at the far end of the sheet. The cameras should take a lot of the guesswork out of what’s going on, which will make watching curling from behind the glass much more enjoyable. The cost of the project is in the neighborhood of $10,500, which the Curling Club

January 13, 2017

raised through donations and fundraising projects. The most notable of those projects was the 50-50 Pumpkin Explosion in the fall. The cameras and equipment were purchase rom and installed by Kelly`s Computer Works of North Battleford, using scaffolding donated and set up by Kuffert Carpentry. And while the scaffolding was set up, the Curling Club committee took the opportunity to clean the windows on the mezzanine.

Those watching curling will have a good view of the house at the far end of the rink, eliminating a lot of guesswork.

The scaffolding used in the installation of the cameras at the Curling Rink was donated and set up by Kuffert Carpentry.

Silvertips end win streak at nine games with loss in Cut Knife A perfect season is no longer a possibility for the defending Saskatchewan Prairie Hockey League champion Shellbrook Silvertips, who had their unblemished 8-0 record tarnished after splitting a weekend series of road games. On Jan. 6, the Tips stopped over in Maymont for their second match against the Maymont Settlers, and skated away with a 6-2 victory. Travelling to Cut Knife the next night to face off against the Cut Knife Colts, the Tips put on their worst offensive performance of the season and suffered a close 3-2 loss. Tips (6) @ Settlers (2) En route to their second dominant win over the Settlers this season, the Tips received help from five goal scorers on the evening to take a relatively easy 6-2 victory. Leading the way Josh Elliot netted two goals and earned one assist in the match, while Brendon Canaday was close behind with one goal and two helpers. Jody Blais, Jordan Greyeyes, and Mitch Wourms also chipped in, netting single goals. In the assists column, meanwhile, defencemen Nick Martin and Tavis Wason each earned themselves a helper apiece on the evening. On the Maymont score sheet, Kyle Lichtenwald scored a single goal, but the second goal scorer was

not clearly listed (likely due to a goal being mistakenly input as an assist on the league website). Tips (2) @ Colts (3) With a perfect 9-0 record on the line, and less than 24 hours of rest after their defeat of the Settlers, the Tips found themselves facing a perennially tough foe in the form of the Cut Knife Colts on Saturday evening. And after struggling to get offensive output over 60 minutes, the Tips eventually fell, ending their perfect run through the first half of their 20162017 SPHL campaign. Doran Canaday and Brennan Tomporowski provided the lone goals for the tips in the losing effort, while Noah McPherson earned two assists on the night, and Brendon Beaulac and Devon Dicus had a single helper apiece. On Cut Knife’s score sheet Justin Waskewitch led the offensive effort by netting two goals and tacking on a single assist, while Ashton Hewson scored a goal and earned two helpers. Rounding things out, Blair Pewap had three assists, while Brayden Bertoia earned one helper. With the loss, the Tips now sit at 9-1, which keeps them tied for first place with the Edam Three Stars. This weekend, the Tips will return to home ice for the first time in a month as they host the Hafford

Hawks on Saturday Jan. 14. Then, as part of the Cameco Hockey Day in Saskatchewan celebrations, the Tips will host the Spiritwood Timberwolves on Thursday Jan. 19. Puck drop for Saturday’s is scheduled for 8 p.m., while Thursday’s faceoff is slated to begin at 8:30 p.m.

• Find a job • Find an employee Opportunity is knocking loud in the Classifieds!!

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January 13, 2017

Spiritwood Herald 9

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New David Austin rose releases

There are two new David Austin Roses to be released in spring of 2017. Both of these roses are products of a 20 year breeding program this is achieving amazing levels of beauty, fragrance, free flowering, disease resistance and most importantly, charm. With these two additions there is a total of 114 Austin-bred English Rose varieties now available to North American gardeners. This year, David C. H. Austin turned 90 years of age and the photograph attached to this article is an image taken at the David Austin Roses show garden in Albrighton, England. David is best known for introducing English Roses which combine the flower forms an scents of Old Roses with the repeat flowering, health and colour range of the modern day roses. This breeding program has introduced 234 English Rose varieties in total. The Austin nursery, show garden and plant

centre draws visitors from around the globe. (Bertie, also in the photo is a Stafford Bull Terrier.) ‘Desdemona’ is a pure white rose that and a powerful charmer. The growth habit is upright but rounded with multiple sprays of white roses. This rose is beautiful enough to stand alone as a feature plant but is also a great addition to the border to heighten the impact of other shrubs and plants. The use of white in the garden will make other colours pop as well as reinforcing the depth of field and effectively separating colours that might otherwise clash. ‘Desdemona’ is considered to be Austin’s best white rose with a deliciously-perfumed English Rose scent that will continue to repeat its bloom throughout the season. It does will in both hot/humid or hot/dry conditions. ‘The Ancient Mariner’ has very large, upwardfacing flowers that naturally sit high on the bush. It has a truly decadent

strong myrrh fragrance that makes the entire surrounding area quite scented. The cupped blooms are densely packed with petals. Their color is a rich glowing pink that’s paler pink at the outer edge to create a halo effect that Mr. Austin finds particularly lovely. After bloom, the spent petals fall cleanly away. If this article has interested you, then you can order anytime and your order will be shipped in spring at the correct time to plant as a bare rooted plant. Both these new additions are rated to a hardiness zone of 4 - 5 which makes them a fairly good risk for our climatic zone. The roses are sold on a first-come basis. New introductions typically sell out early. To order, visit www.davidaustinroses.com/us/, call 800-328-8893, or write to David Austin Roses Limited, 15059 State Highway 64 West, Tyler, TX 75704. All David Austin roses sold in North America are spe-

CTF reacts to tentative agreement with PSAC Canadian Taxpayers Federation Federal Director Aaron Wudrick released the following statement in response to the tentative agreement announced yesterday between the Government of Canada and the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC): “Taxpayers should be deeply concerned

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about this tentative agreement. After a year of hard bargaining, the government has now capitulated to all of the union’s demands, including leaving in place the outrageous policy of allowing government employees to bank an unlimited number of sick days, at a cost of billions of dollars to taxpayers.”

cially selected for North American growing conditions and climate zones. All are grown and shipped within North America. There is also a new book available. The 2017 David Austin Handbook of Roses is an elegant, encyclopedic catalog that could double as a coffee-table book is free to U.S. and Canadian gardeners from www.dav idaustinroses.com/us/. The handbook and related website feature David Austin Roses’ complete 2017 North American collection of bare root roses, including all 114 English Roses available on this side of the Atlantic. Hanbidge is a horticulturist with the Saskatoon School of Horticulture and can be reached at 306-931GROW(4769); by email at grow your f uture@gmail. com or check out our website at www.saskhort.com Register now for distance courses leading to a diploma or a certificate. Study with us or study in the comfort of your own home! Please contact us for further information or visit our website at saskhort.com

On February 4th and 5th from 10am to 3pm your favourite person could enjoy learning and working with fresh beautiful flowers. What better way to make winter go away and also expand the skills and knowledge of your perfect gardener. Level I Floral Design will allow participants to learn the basic concepts of floral design and gain the necessary skills to begin work in the floral industry. Participants will design four spectacular floral pieces to take home. Cost is $495 plus GST. Call the Saskatoon School of Horticulture at 306931-GROW(4769) or email grow your f uture@gmail. com. The Prairie Master Gardeners share their love and knowledge of gardening with anyone and everyone! They have social and educational events that make gardening even better than it is. Check out their affordable and enjoyable classes and other events and if it suits your fancy (or your favourite gardeners) joining or taking a class is a very thoughtful gift. Join other avid gar-

deners on March 18th for Escape Winter. For the low cost of $50 for members ($60 for non-members) you can spend a great day filled with fun, fellowship and fabulous classes! Mark your calendars and watch in early January for details. Let our team of experts help you to create the outdoor living area of your dreams. Our team of educated and skilled experts can build or renovate your new or existing landscape. Including decks; gazebos; sunrooms; solariums; retaining walls; fences; irrigations systems; and regular maintenance. Target Certificate in Horticulture Program..... learn from the comfort of your home and gain the skills and education to work in the field of horticulture. Graduates from SSH are recognized by the industry as superb additions to help their horticultural business grow! Like us on facebook at Saskatoon School of Horticulture and get in on all the events coming up and follow us on twitter @horticulturepat

13 Ways to Kill Your Community

To consign cattle or for on-farm appraisals please contact Brent, Blair or Boyd

Monday, Jan. 23, 2017 Regular Cattle Sale 9:30 AM

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 Regular Cattle Sale 9:30 AM Presorted Internet Yearling Sale 11:00 AM Producers wishing to market cattle prior to sale day please contact the office 306-236-3411 for delivery.

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January 13, 2017

January 13, 2017

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Saskatchewan making transition to single health authority

Consolidation is coming to Saskatchewan, as the provincial government announced last Wednesday that the province’s dozen health regions will be combined into a single entity by fall. In making the announcement, Health Minister Jim Reiter said that the change will improve the co-ordination of services and overall quality of patient care, while also reducing administrative duplication in legal services, IT, and accounting. “Our government remains committed to providing high-quality health services in every part of the province,” Reiter said in a government news release that accompanied the announcement. “Our goal is better co-ordination between the health services provided in different areas of the province.” While many questions remain about the province’s impending transition to a single health authority, it’s known at this time that the provincial government intends to appoint a single board of directors to govern the new administrative body, and that this board will be accountable to Reiter. It’s also known that the Athabasca Health Authority, a unique partnership between the province, the federal government, and First Nations that provides care in northern communities, won’t be affected by the consolidation. Important questions, meanwhile, such as the transitions impact on health care jobs, and the dollar amount the province can expect to save through consolidation will be answered in the coming months. Though, Reiter has unequivocally stated that cost-savings are not the primary motivator of the government’s decision to consolidate the health regions.

Appreciation draw winner

“This is about better and more effective ways to deliver health care to Saskatchewan,” Reiter said. The consolidation stems from the suggestions made by a government-appointed advisory panel, which was assembled over the summer and asked to recommend options for fewer health regions, and to find efficiencies in the delivery of patient services. The panel’s report, released in conjunction with the government’s announcement, found that patients with singular, immediate needs are typically well served by the current health system, but that patients with multiple chronic or complex conditions often don’t have the same experience. “The reasons we struggle with multiple chronic conditions and inadequate social supports are diverse, but at the heart of the problem is the simple fact that we have largely failed to deliberately design and organize services tailored to the needs of our patients,” reads the report. Patients “find themselves falling through the cracks of these internal boundaries.” The panel also recommended consolidating all planning, dispatch, and delivery, after it found that Saskatchewan’s emergency services are delivered by a large number of poorly integrated vendors. The panel’s findings were echoed by provincial auditor Judy Ferguson, who suggested last month that the government needed to do a province-wide assessment of its more than 100 ambulance services. Ferguson’s examination of the Cypress Regional Health Authority found that ambulances aren’t always meeting a target response time of 30 minutes in rural areas. Ferguson also said the borders for a region are artificial when it comes to ambulance service, and that, in some cases, service in another region may be closer to an emergency. The advisory panel received more than 300 submissions from the public, doctors and organizations. The report said while there was excitement about the potential for better care, there was also concern that rural and remote communities will get lost in a bigger system and fears the restructuring is motivated by money rather than improving quality. Unsurprisingly, the provincial government’s announcement drew negative criticism from the opposition NDP, which accused it of attempting to sell cuts to healthcare services as “consolidation” as it grapples with a $1 billion deficit.

“With the Sask. Party government, consolidation is code for cuts and closures — cuts to frontline services, cuts to jobs and closures of health-care facilities,” said New Democrat health critic Danielle Chartier. Meanwhile, Ray Orb, president of the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities, voiced concerns about the lack of answers to questions about how rural health services will be impacted by the transition to a single authority. “We’re asking [that] the system that we have now be enhanced, rather than diluted,” he said. “I think a meeting with the ministers would probably resolve that issue.” On a more local level, Cecile Hunt, CEO of Prince Albert Parkland Health Region, is taking a wait-and -see approach to the government’s announcement, and urging both staff and patients to wait for more information before jumping to conclusions. “With any large system change, there is some uncertainty. We want to ensure that good people continue to have a place and a role within the health system,” she said. “But until we get more information, people will be anxious.” While the province has yet to answer questions about how the consolidation to a single health authority will impact the health regions, Hunt says she and staff can do little more than prepare for the coming changes. “There will be changes, absolutely, but we need to keep focused on the delivery of quality health care, and how this will better integrate those services,” she said. Despite the concerns of some, Hunt also says she remains hopeful that the transition will create a more seamless, efficient health system. “Today, the 12 health regions have done a pretty good job in delivering healthcare. But patients report that there are sometimes small, and sometimes larger differences between different regions and how they deliver services. “Patients want consistency and good access.” This is not the first time health regions have been consolidated in Saskatchewan. There were 32 health districts formed in 1992. In 2002, the province created the current 12 health regions, plus the Athabasca Health Authority. Currently, the province’s health care system serves about 1.2 million people with a budget of $5.1 billion.

Bed closures still in effect at Parkland Integrated Health Centre

Beau”Lac” Funeral Home has served families and communities in Northern Saskatchewan since 1994. As a token of their appreciation they gave away a $500 gift certificate to a store of the winners choice. Jacob LaClare was the lucky winner and choose a $500 gift certificate from Super A Store in Spiritwood.

Continued from page 1 And to help make rural communities more attractive to nursing graduates, Hunt says the health region currently offers many perks, including mentorship for recent grads, and a bursary specifically targeted at grads who choose to work in rural facilities. The health region also covers some moving expenses for candidates who are willing to relocate, and offers summer employment opportunities for nursing students. “It gives them exposure to these communities where there are many opportunities to practice their skillsets. Wherever possible, we also provide clinical practicums for nursing students to expose them to all of the opportunities in these communities.” The health region has also been working in close partnership with the Parkland Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee, which in 2016 expanded its memorandum of understanding (MOU) with local physicians to include new incentives to attract RNs and LPNs to Parkland Integrated Health Centre. Under this expanded MOU, the Committee provides soft landings for nurses, who choose to work in Shellbrook, as well as bursaries for the successful completion of RN and LPN preceptorships. Despite the bed closures, the emergency department at the health centre has remained open 24-hours, and there has been no impact the long-term care facility. However, over most of the coming year, many in

Shellbrook and the surrounding area will likely be wondering how the Saskatchewan government’s announcement that the province will be transitioning to a single province-wide health authority will affect Parkland Integrated Health Centre.

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Did you hunt this year? Did you harvest an animal? If you purchased a hunting licence this year, the Ministry of Environment is asking you to complete a Hunter Harvest Survey online or in

person. These surveys are an important component of managing game species in Saskatchewan. “Each year, the ministry’s wildlife biologists review this data to determine how

well current management strategies, such as quotas and season dates are working, and identify areas where different management strategies may be warranted,” said Habitat and Popula-

Community Calendar

~

SPIRITWOOD: Wapiti Regional Library - Tuesday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm, Wednesday 10 am - 6 pm & Friday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm LEOVILLE: Wapiti Regional Library - Wednesday 10 am - 4 pm (Storytime from 10:30 am to 11:30 am); Thurs. 10 am - 4 pm SHELL LAKE: Wapiti Regional Library - Tues. 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm; Wed. 1 pm - 4 pm. SPIRITWOOD: Witchekan Wildlife Federation Inc. Annual Banquet & Awards Night. Saturday, January 21, 2017, Spiritwood Civic Center. Cocktails - 5 pm; Supper - 6 pm; Dance - 9 pm (Bannock Country). Adults $25; 10 & Under $12.50; Preschool Free. For tickets call: Lyla 306-883-9284; Pearl & Eric 306-883-2835; Jim 306-984-4514. Photo Contest - Categories include: Scenery, Hunting, Fishing & Wildlife. Pictures must be printed on 8x10 Kodak paper & can be submitted the day of banquet.

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tions Ecologist Katherine Conkin with the Ministry of Environment. “The more surveys completed, the more thorough this evaluation can be. Additionally, each survey provides hunters the opportunity to identify how populations are doing in their hunting areas.” Each survey takes less than two minutes and can be completed until January 31, 2017. Sign onto your HAL account at https://saskatchewanlicences.active. com/licensing.pageand click the Hunter Harvest Survey tab on the left-hand side of the page. Hunters may also complete the survey in person at any Ministry of Environment office. If you need help completing the survey online, or are unable to visit a field office to complete your survey, please contact the Active Network Outdoors Help Desk at ActiveOutdoorsSKWebmaster@ActiveNetwork. com or 1-888-773-8450 for assistance.As an added incentive, all hunters who complete their hunter harvest survey will be eligible for one of six $100 gift certificates courtesy of the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation. For more information, or to view the summarized results of previous surveys, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca and search for ‘hunter harvest survey’. Information is also available on page 10 of the Saskatchewan Hunt-

ers’ and Trappers’ Guide. Thank you to all those who have completed their Hunter

Harvest Surveys for the 2016 season!

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Pasquia Plumbing & Heating

Jake’s Plumbing & Heating

Heisler Sand & Gravel

Brock’s Welding

Ron Blocka ~ 306-984-7760 Stan Blocka ~ 306-883-7829

HEARING

E-mail: [email protected]

CENTRE

Call today for your FREE Hearing Test!

1-306-883-3997 Hearing Aid Sales and Services 101 Main Street, Spiritwood

Russell Isaac

• Air Conditioners • Furnaces • Boilers • Water Heaters & Softeners • Plumbing Repairs • Installs, Repairs & Maintenance • Sewer & Drain Cleaning

Serving Spiritwood, Leoville, Chitek & Surrounding Communities

306-984-7854

Furnaces, boilers, water heaters & softeners, garage unit heaters, air conditioners, reverse osmosis systems, fire places and more Red Seal Interprovincial Journeyman Licensed General Gasfitter No call out fees / No overtime charges Guaranteed workmanship

Full time availability

Serving Chitek Lake, Leoville, Spiritwood & surrounding area

306-280-0743

Shell Lake, SK

Phone Wayne ~ 306.888.7812 or Teresa ~ 306.660.8479

For Pricing & Delivery

DU

Serving Spiritwood & surrounding area

ELECTRIC A I L• FA R M •

N

New Homes, Cottages, Garages, Farm Buildings

V

Residential, Farm & Commercial Wiring Ph: 306-883-2173 Fax: 306-883-2872 Cell: 306-883-7534 Box 849 Spiritwood, SK S0J 2M0

STUCCO/STONE/DRYWALL

• Residential • Commercial • Custom Design for home, office or business • Excellent finishing

L V

Cabinetry ltd

SIDENTIAL RE

•

ELECTRICAL L

Vantage

I

Madeleine 747-2442

ELECTRICAL

C

Call Today:

General Contractor/Builder

DRYWALL / PAINTING

MMER

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

CONSTRUCTION

CO

Prairie North This Space Is Waiting For You Contracting Ltd.

CABINETRY

S T RIAL

BUILDERS

•

ADVERTISE HERE

Glen Jantz

306-984-7634, Leoville [email protected] Licenced & Bonded

• Pressure Welding • General Welding • Mobile Hours: 7 Days a Week 24 Hours a Day

“Big or Small I Stick It All”

306-461-9859 Brock Walter

Owner/Operator

Spiritwood

14

THE CLASSIFIEDS

Spiritwood Herald

Phone 306-747-2442

Fax 306-747-3000 Email

[email protected] P.O. Box 10, Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0 Advertising Deadline - Monday: 5:00 p.m.

Subscriptions $66.00 + $3.30 (GST) = $69.30/year

TENDERS LAND FOR TENDER BID - in RM of Canwood, NE-23-496-W3, SE-23-49-6-W3, SW-27-49-6-W3. Total assessment $203,700. 265 acres are cultivated, rest mostly grassland. Highest or any bid not necessarily accepted - closing date Jan. 28, 2017. Submit to Box 836 Shellbrook, Sask. S0J 2E0 3-03CH TENDER - Cash rent tenders are being accepted for a 3 year lease on section 25-50-04-W3 and NW 1/4 -3650-04-W3 approximately 425 cultivated acres. Hay land on all 1/4’s not included in tender. Written tenders will be accepted until January 31, 2017. Highest tender not necessarily accepted. Mail tenders to: Land Tenders 307 Bornstein Cres. Saskatoon, Sask. S7N 3Y4. For further information call 306-249-2646 and leave a message. 2-03CH

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE LIVESTOCK FOR SALE - Black and Red Angus yearling and 2 year old Bulls on moderate growing ration performance info available. Adrian or Brian and Elaine Edwards Valleyhills Angus - Glaslyn, SK. Ph: 306-441-0946 or 306-342-4407. www.valleyhillsangus.com 20-21CH

WANTED WANTED - Farm land to rent in Stump Lake, Canwood, Debden, Shellbrook, Spiritwood & Big River areas. 150 to 5000 acres. Ph: 306-4697741. 4-05CH WANTED - Wanting to rent farm land and land to seed to alfalfa between Leask, Shellbrook and Canwood. Call Trent Mamchur, 306-7473272 or 306-747-7195. 3-03CH

HOMES FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE FOR SALE - Large round hay bales. Approx. 1200 - 1300 lbs. Good quality hay. Phone for pricing 306-466-2261. 2-03CH

Zero In On New Employees

Classifieds Work!

747-2442

HOUSE FOR SALE NEW Two bedroom 720 sq. ft. house, ½ acre lot Crutwell, SK. 15 minute commute to Prince Albert or Shellbrook. Fully furnished with new stainless appliances. See Kijiji AD# 1219247905 for more info. $143,000. Call 587983-5853. 1-02CH

Spiritwood

Email your ad: [email protected] SWNA Blanket Classifieds Herald

Reaching over 10,000 people weekly. Personal Classifieds: $13.50 for 20 words + GST 20¢ additional words $8.00 for additional weeks Classified Display: $18.00/column inch. Minimum 2 column inches - $36.00 + GST. For All Other Advertising Please Contact Our Office at: Ph: 306-747-2442 or Fax: 306-747-3000 Email: news: [email protected] advertising: [email protected] HOMES FOR SALE - No sales gimmicks - just the best prices and service. Built by Forest River & MT View Homes. Add delivery to ALL prices: 1. Park model homes $48,900 - $71,900. 2. Cabins & rental units $38 - 68,000. 3. Office Buildings $59,900. 4. RTMs $129,000 - 3 bedroom, 2 bath. Call for info., floor plans and easy ordering. Delivery ANYWHERE in 4-10 weeks. Joyce at Smart Cottage 306468-2224. 16-03CH

HELP WANTED EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - FBC is Canada’s largest farm and small business tax specialist. We are growing and looking for people who enjoy helping others and creating raving fans to join us as Field Consultants (Tax Specialists in Training) based out of our Saskatoon office. We are specifically looking for people to provide service in and around Melfort, Tisdale, Nipawin, Hudson Bay, Prince Albert, and/or Kindersley. Substantial training will be provided to ensure your success in this role! For more information and to apply, please visit our careers page via www.fbc.ca. 1-02H

SERVICES SERVICES - Custom grain drying, wheat, canola, barley & oats. For info. call 306-469-7741. 4-05CH

SERVICES - Will do housecleaning. Phone Vivian 306747-2561. 2-02CH

CARD OF THANKS CARD OF THANKS The family of Frank Bulyaki would like to say Thank-you for all the cards, phone calls, food, flowers, visits and words of condolence we received. It is very much appreciated. Thank-you to Spiritwood Ambulance Care (EMT/ Paramedic) RCMP who responded to the call as well as Dr. Ryan and the nurses in Shellbrook for assisting us in such a difficult time and for all the compassion we received from all of you. Thank-you to Delores Beaulac for officiating the service. You provided us with comfort, care and support when we needed it the most. Thankyou to Beau “Lac” Funeral Home for your kindness and wonderful service. You have been so accommodating and kind. Thank-you for everything you have done for our family. We want to send a heartfelt thank-you to Brenda Beaulac for the hugs, kindness, compassion, patience and understanding at such a time of sadness and sorrow. Thank-you to everyone who helped in any way to provide and serve the lunch at the funeral. A special thanks to all of our family and friends for giving us

Reaching over 6 million people weekly. Cost for 25 words:

Saskatchewan market..............$209.00 One Zone ............................$86.00 Two Zone ..........................$123.00 Alberta market .......................$269.00 Manitoba market ...................$189.00 BC market .............................$395.00 Ontario market ......................$475.00 Western Ontario .................$142.00 Central Ontario ..................$145.00 Eastern Ontario ..................$155.00 Northern Ontario ..................$90.00 Quebec market English ...............................$160.00 Atlantic market ......................$179.00 Across Canada ..................$1,876.00 Also Available: Quebec (French) ................$956.00

extra love and support at this difficult time. Words cannot express how grateful our family is for the generous support, encouraging words, thoughts and prayers. Thank-you for thinking of us in our time of need. 1-02H

It’s Easy

to place a classified! Phone 306-747-2442 Fax: 306-747-3000 Email: chads@ sbchron.com

January 13, 2017

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 Monday at 5 p.m. Contact the Shellbrook Chronicle 306-747-2442 or Email:

[email protected]

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.

MEMORIAMS

IN MEMORIAM - Kerry (Simon) Tremblay August 3, 1969 January 16, 2013 It is four years since you left. God saw you getting tired.

A cure was not to be, Se he put his arms around you And whispered ‘Come to Me’. Your loving smile, your gentle face, No one can fill that vacant space. With Love: Mom and Dad Shelly & Norman Chris & Diane Stuart & Valerie Cindy, Jacob & Nadene Michael & Megan 1-02H

Advertising Deadline is Monday 5:00 p.m.

Make Money With The Classifieds Sell your stuff with a little help from the

Spiritwood Herald

20 words for only

$13.50 plus GST $8.00 for each additional week

• Additional words 20¢ • Includes 2 papers and website

306-747-2442 chads@ sbchron.com

PRAISE & WORSHIP

Regular services, Sunday school and special services will be listed. PARTNERS IN FAITH Lutheran/United/ Christchurch Anglican, 137-2nd St. W. Spiritwood Sun. Worship 11:00 a.m. Rev. Nora Borgeson ----------------------UNITED /ANGLICAN Worship Services Glaslyn Time is on the sign Rev. Kun Kim Rev. Don Skinner ----------------------PENTECOSTAL Glaslyn Pre-service Prayer Sunday, 10:30 am Sunday Service 11:00 am Kids Club Tuesday 3:30 pm - 5 pm Wednesday Prayer 7 pm - 8 pm Pastor Ruth Phillips ----------------------CATHOLIC SATURDAY Medstead: Mass 6 pm Shell Lake - closed for season SUNDAY Leoville: Mass 9:30 am

Spiritwood: Mass 11:15 am Chitek Lake: Closed. Father Peter Nnanga MSP ----------------------PARTNERS IN WORSHIP Shell Lake - Sun. 10 am (Worship in Lutheran United Church) ----------------------Gideons International of Canada Battlefords Camp Phone Art Martynes (306) 389-4633 ----------------------SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST 407 - 2nd Ave .E, Shellbrook Sat., 9:45 am Sabbath School Sat., 11:00 am - Worship Broadcast on VOAR 92.1 FM Pastor Dan Guiboche 306-930-3377 ----------------------MENNONITE BRETHREN Glenbush 10:00 am - Sunday School Worship 10:50 am -----------------------

HOFFNUNGSFELDER MENNONITE CHURCH Glenbush Worship - 11:00 am ----------------------BETHEL Medstead 1st Sunday, 10 am Worship Intern Pastor 3rd Sunday - 1 pm Worship ----------------------EVANGELICAL FREE Mont Nebo Wed., 7:30 pm Bible Study & Prayer Sun., 10:30 am - Worship Pastor Bill Klumpenhower ----------------------LAKELAND COMMUNITY CHURCH Spiritwood Sun., 11 am - Worship Service Pastor Gerry Zak ----------------------BELBUTTE FULL GOSPEL 11 am Worship Service 1st Sun., 7:30 pm - Hymn Sing Pastor Floyd Berg

January 13, 2017

www.spiritwoodherald.com

Spiritwood Herald

15

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Spiritwood Herald

www.spiritwoodherald.com

Y R TO

2016 MODEL CLEARANCE

N E V

IN

January 13, 2017

$142 2016 CHEVROLET E L $ A S CRUZE 22,750

Stock #16225

BI-WEEKLY

B/W $126

B/W $126

Stock #16261

2016 CRUZE

B/W $130

Stock #16303

Stock #16304

Stock #16332

CHEVROLET

CHEVROLET

CHEVROLET

2016 CRUZE

CHEVROLET

19,995

2016 CRUZE

19,995

$

B/W $124

20,600

$

2016 BUICK

2016 CRUZE

19,565

$

$

B/W $154

ENCORE

25,863

$

Stock #16061

2016 CHEVROLET

B/W $149

TRAX

24,995

$

Stock #16371

B/W $188

Stock #16390

2016 CHEVROLET IMPALA

29,995

$

Duane Lafreniere

General Manager

Donald Zehner

New Sales Manager

Ken Feltham

Pre-Owned Sales Manager

Stock #16355

2016 CHEVROLET

BI-WEEKLY

CRUZE 24,995 $

*All prices and 84 month payments are plus taxes & fees. 4.99% OAC.

Wayne Morrison

Business Manager

Barrett Penner

Business Manager

Ken Stolz Sales

Lorne Pollard Sales

$155

Pete Friesen Sales

Kevin McIntyre Sales

Martin Hamp Sales

Joe Carriere Sales

Mayce Achtemichuk Internet Manager

PH. 306-445-3300

Toll Free 1-877-223-SAVE (7283) Dealer Licence #911462

www.bridgesgm.com 2501 - 99th Street, North Battleford