December 4 2025

City of North Battleford approves new accessibility plan

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD–

North Battleford city council has adopted a new City of North Battleford Accessibility Plan that will help make the community and city facilities more accessible to everyone.

Council approved the document at its meeting on Nov. 27.

“It’s provincial legislation that municipalities are required to have an accessibility plan by December 3rd of this year,” said Mayor Kelli Hawtin. “So that’s what administration has created, is a plan and a way to get public input, and a committee to provide recommendations how to improve accessibility in the community. We’ve often got a lot of initiatives going on, but this will give us a feedback mechanism, and hopefully be able to make the community a more inclusive space for everyone.”

According to City Manager Randy Patrick’s report, as part of the plan, the city will create a Community Accessibility Committee, which will be composed of up to four residents with a range of accessibility needs, such

as mobility, vision, hearing or cognitive, who will be appointed as public committee members.

One member of the public will be appointed who may or may not have specific accessibility needs.

One councillor will also sit on the committee.

The mayor will be an ex officio member of the committee.

City staff from planning, facilities, and community services will serve as resources to the committee.

The standing committee will advise on all priorities and projects, and recommend changes to design standards for council’s consideration during the budgeting process.

It will also review proposed projects that have accessibility concerns or potential issues before budget submission.

The purpose of the North Battleford Accessibility Plan is to “create an inclusive city where all residents and visitors can access municipal facilities, programs, and services without barriers,” Patrick said in his report. “This plan will guide accessibility improvements, prioritize projects, and integrate them into future budgets.”

By SaskToday staff

NORTH BATTLEFORD — On Nov. 29, Battlefords RCMP received a report of a missing 20-year-old female, Hardeep Kaur, last seen on St. Laurent Drive in North Battleford that day at 8:30 a.m. Hardeep Kaur is described as:

• Height: 5 ft 4 in

• Weight: 120 lbs

• Eye colour: brown

• Hair colour and style: black, medium-length

If you have seen Hardeep Kaur or know where she is, contact Battlefords RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

2026 Winter Games venue hopes to rebuild chalet following fire

Lights of Joy

Battleford Community Spirit Group would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for sponsoring our Lights of Joy campaign to light up the Lion’s park downtown Battleford.

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

ST. CYR–St. Cyr Trails Club, located near Meadow Lake, is hoping to rebuild its chalet that was lost in a fire in May.

The non-profit organization has started a Go Fund Me fundraiser to help with the costs.

The goal is to raise $20,000. So far, $1,720 has been raised.

“I was on the St. Cyr board, and we were looking for ways to raise money for the club and to be able to rebuild that chalet,” said Anna Redekop, the main organizer of the fundraiser.

The St. Cyr Trails Club will host the Saskatchewan Winter Games in February 2026 so having a chalet is important to the club.

Redekop can still recall when the fire happened in the spring. Fortunately no trails were lost.

“We got word that there was smoke coming from the area,” she said. “The fire department had been called out there that morning in May, and [the chalet] had already burned to the ground.”

The chalet was about 40 years old. The St. Cyr Trail Club itself will celebrate its

50th anniversary in 2026.

The chalet had just received a brand new roof so the fire came as a shock to the organization.

“We had put our cameras out there, after the roof had been put on, probably a week or two before that, and the cameras saw nothing at midnight,” said Redekop of the fire. “Then, at 3 a.m. ... it was ablaze. We don’t know what happened between those two times unfortunately... It was a pretty devastating loss for us.”

During the Winter Games, the St. Cyr Trails Club will be used for cross-country ski events. There will also be trails set up for shorter, sprinttype events.

Redekop noted that many other winter sport events will also be happening in and around the Meadow Lake area during the Winter Games.

The trails also offer a variety of different sports for people to use throughout the year, such as hiking, bird watching, trail biking and trail running.

“It’s a great place to do all the outdoor activities, very close to Meadow Lake, which is lovely,” Redekop said.

Battleford CAO leaves, search on to fill position

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORD — The Town of Battleford is looking for a new CAO following Todd Francis’ departure.

Francis had been with the town for about a year.

The Town of Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie noted the change reflects an internal decision of council.

“Consistent with our policies and in accordance with applicable employment and privacy standards, the Town of Battleford will not be disclosing further information regarding this personnel matter,” Leslie said in a statement.

Francis began work with the Town of Battleford in the fall of 2024 after leaving his prior post in B.C.

Before starting with the town, Francis’ last position was in Port Edward, B.C., where he served as CAO. Prior to that he served in Stewart, B.C.

“We acknowledge Todd Francis’ period of service and extend our formal best wishes for their future professional endeavors,” Leslie stated.

Leslie said council will now focus on recruiting for the CAO position to fill the vacancy.

Paws for the holidays: BHS outlines the adoption process

By Averil Hall

Freelance Reporter/ Photographer

Will this Christmas be the year for you to adopt a pet from the Battlefords Humane Society (BHS)?

With many animals waiting for homes, the shelter hopes more people will look at adoption as an option. BHS treasurer Laurel Fauth said the process is simple and meant to help match animals with households that can care for them long term.

Residents can start by visiting the shelter to meet the animals in person. Staff are available to answer questions about each pet’s behaviour, age and background. People can also browse the list of adoptable animals on the BHS website at battlefordshumanesociety.com. Photos and basic information about each animal are posted online, and the list is updated as new pets become available.

Once someone finds a pet they would like to adopt, they can complete an application either at the shelter or through the website. The form asks whether the person rents or owns their home, what other pets live in the household, and what pets they have had before. Fauth said this information helps ensure the pet is placed in a safe and suitable home. Applicants must also confirm that they can provide long-term care, in-

cluding food, training, and veterinary needs.

All animals adopted through BHS are fixed, vaccinated and microchipped. Their medical records are provided to the new owners at the time of adoption, so people know exactly what care the animal has received. Fauth said this is part of the shelter’s effort to set both pets and owners up for success.

Adoption fees help cover those medical costs. Puppies are $450, adult dogs are $300, kittens are $200, and adult cats are $175. Fauth said these fees reflect the services already completed for each animal.

She also said people should think carefully before adopting during the holiday season. “Do you really want this pet for long term because they will be a long term part of your

family. It will be an exciting Christmas but it will also need to be a long term commitment,” she said. She added that the shelter wants adoptions to be stable and successful, not rushed.

To support that goal, BHS offers a two-week grace period after adoption. If the pet does not fit with the household, it can be returned to the shelter within that time. This gives families time to ensure the match is right.

BHS continues to care for abandoned, surrendered and stray animals throughout the year, and staff hope the holiday season will bring more residents through the doors to meet the pets waiting for homes.

If this is not the year to adopt a pet, the shelter would be happy to accept donations of food, cat litter,

or more.

Town administration presents proposed 2026 operational budget

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORD — The Town of Battleford held its first budget deliberation meeting on Nov. 26, with chief financial officer Tetiana Polishchuk presenting administration’s proposed 2026 budget.

Polishchuk discussed the proposed operational budget with council.

The proposed property tax will not be discussed until capital is presented at the Dec. 2 deliberation meeting.

During the Nov. 26 meeting, Polishchuk said the budget would see a five per cent increase each in total expenses and revenues.

Some of the high expenses in the budget cover three key

areas.

“Some of the bigger ones are policing and protective services,” said Mayor Ames Leslie. “It was a little bit of an increase in expenses as the cost of the RCMP contract, as well as the fire department’s been busier. It’s been a growth of call-outs, so that line item is getting more expensive.”

Planning and development costs are also going up.

“With the increase of planning and development projects in the Town of Battleford, there’s another project that was looking to increase as a line item by a few percentage,” Leslie said.

Salaries are also a high expense for the town.

“Probably the big expense coming forth is council is

looking to approve, ratify a union contract,” Leslie said. “There are increases in there, which will be salaries of the union people, will be a pretty big increase to the budget.”

Other expenses in the proposed budget include a rise in third-party grant requests.

“As well, a big one to look at too is the City of North Battleford, for the recreational grant that we’ve committed to the city,” Leslie said. “That one jumped eight per cent for [2026], so that we contribute to Parks and Recreation over there as the Town of Battleford.”

Town of Battleford council will continue to review the proposed budget and is expected to vote on it at council’s meeting on Dec. 15.

COMMUNITY IN ACTION

Do you have a positive idea on how to improve the Battlefords? You could contribute to building a better tomorrow. SHARE YOUR SOLUTIONS WITH US. Send in your idea to: newsoptimist.news@sasktel.net

We may share it in our new Community in Action section.

Averil Hall

Contributors:

Contributors: Elaine Woloshyn, Kathy Utri, Trudy Janssens, Lorraine Olinyk

Mailroom - Manager: Melissa Pitkeathley Anamarija Barna

Battlefords Kiwanis Club closes after 58 years of service

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

BATTLEFORDS — A long-serving service club has recently decided to close due to dwindling membership numbers.

The Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords folded in October after being active in the community since 1967.

The club last had eight members but needed at least 12 to keep it going.

The current members are also getting older.

“It’s sad to see it go, but I can see that we just can’t keep up with what we’ve been able to do before,” said member John Hunchak.

He said many of the members are now in their 80s.

“We have been giving out donations,” Hunchak said. “We have been doing physical work when we were able to. But now, when you get people in the club that are in their 80s, it’s pretty hard to do actual work and help out in the community.”

He said he will also miss the social side of being in the club.

“The Kiwanis Club has a social aspect to it,” Hunchak said. “It was a family club.”

Some of the important projects the club has supported include a donation to benefit Bready Elementary School library renovations.

The club has also made annual Christmas donations

to the Battlefords Union Hospital, the Canadian Mental Health Association Battlefords branch, Bridges for Kids, the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre food bank, and BGC Battlefords. The club has also supported the Kiwanis Nature Trails on Finlayson Island.

In addition to fundraising at the Carousel Bingo in North Battleford, the Kiwanis Club has also raised money through its Kiwanis Lobster Supper event, through the annual used bike auction, and through a fish and chip booth it had at the exhibition in North Battleford. The fish and chip booth, the lobster

supper, and the used bike auction fundraisers have since been turned over to other organizations to continue. Hunchak said over the years the Kiwanis Club of the Battlefords supported many projects in the community the club is proud to have been a part of.

“The Kiwanis Club is

Aliya Kanani brings sharp, warm storytelling to Dekker Centre

By Kylie Mak

Aliya Kanani is an award-winning Toronto-based comedian and Canadian Academy Award–nominated actress known for her vibrant personality, sharp wit, and highly personable presence on stage.

Through playful mischief and thoughtful commentary on race, gender, and social labels, she connects with the audience.

Her show at the Dekker Centre, “Where You FROM, From?”, on Nov. 26, used humour and heartfelt storytelling to explore identity, belonging, and the assumptions people make—proving that you don’t need to link who someone is with where they’re from to have meaningful relationships and experiences.

pleased to have been actively involved in service to the community,” he said.

“Thanks to the community for 58 years of continued support.”

Battlefords men gather to discuss mental health and wellbeing

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD

— Battlefords-area men had an opportunity to share their thoughts on mental health and wellbeing at a recent workshop organized by the Canadian Mental Health Association Battlefords branch.

The event took place at the North Battleford Library on Nov. 25, with about 10 men taking part.

“We hosted a wellbeing [event] for men for an initiative under Movember that our organization decided to provide, that was open to the public to help create more awareness around men’s mental health, focusing on mental wellbeing, wellness, prevention, intervention, health promotion, reduce that stigma and advocate,” said Canadian Mental Health Association Battlefords branch executive director Michele Winterholt. “We had a smaller group

[attending]. This is the first year we’ve done that, so we hope to see some expansion and maybe provide more promotion of the event for next year.”

She said the event aimed to provide a safe place for individuals in the community to discuss men’s mental health and be able to do so without stigma.

Organizers were also able to share with participants some of the resources available in the Battlefords where they could seek support.

“[The event focused on] helping reduce that stigma attached to men being comfortable maybe talking about mental health or suicide, and just giving them that safe place to have those conversations, provide them resources, and those kinds of things,” Winterholt said.

Winterholt hopes the workshop offered men attending some direction.

“[We were] making sure they are aware of the re-

She said Movember isn’t just a movement that raises awareness about men’s prostate cancer and other cancers — it also focuses on men’s health in general and men’s mental health, so the wellbeing workshop fits under that program.

sources if they are struggling with mental health, where they can go, who they can talk to, how our organization or agency can assist them, and provide them the opportunity to reach out in the future,” she said.

CHUCKLES

Did you hear about the Auto Body Shop that just opened? It comes highly wreck-a-mended.

A guy goes to his doctor because he can see into the future.

The doctor asks him, “How long have you suffered from that condition?”

The guy replies, “Since next Monday!”

What lies at the bottom of the ocean and twitches?

A nervous wreck!

When one door closes another one opens. Other than that, it’s a pretty good car.

A truckload of Vick’s Vapor Rub overturned on the highway... Amazingly, there was no congestion for eight hours!

By Kylie Mak

“Santa,

Life without music would B flat, Dianne Gryba’s legacy

Sherri Solomko

Freelance Reporter

Those that have been a part of Dianne Gryba’s musical mastery know that her art of teaching music was also the art of assisting discovery. Music teachers are always in tune with their students.

Saskatchewan Music Festival Association acknowledged that Dianne Gryba has been the cornerstone of the Battlefords’ musical and cultural community for more than three decades.

Gryba has resided in North Battleford, since 1989, has shared her passion for music as a teacher, accompanist, conductor and volunteer leader, inspiring generations of young people and enriching the community through music.

As a passionate supporter of music festivals, Gryba believed in the power of these musical showcases to nurture talent and community spirit.

SMFA recently presented Gryba an award at the collaborative conference with their organization and the Sask. Registered Music Teachers’ Association, acknowledging her a long time and valuable volunteer work. Gryba was nominated by the Battlefords Kiwanis Music Festival for her outstanding contribution

to the Battlefords Festival.

Gryba has volunteered countless hours with BMF, serving in numerous leadership roles including the President’s chair. At the provincial level, she currently serves as President for the SMFA while also lending her experience and talent as a festival adjudicator across the province.

“Beyond her public work, Dianne continues to share her love of music with her family, including her four grandchildren. As she moves from the Battlefords to Saskatoon, she will be deeply missed by colleagues, students, and community members alike. Her legacy in the Battlefords is one of generosity, dedication and a profound belief in the power of music to bring people together.”

In an interview with Gryba, she adds, “We have indeed relocated to Saskatoon and now as President of the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association, we oversee more than 40 festivals in the province. I am still teaching as well.”

The teacher, accompanist and choral director also maintained a thriving studio of voice and piano students and in a 2019 program from Winnipeg Music Festival,

where she served as an adjudicator, it notes that she cotaught musical theatre classes at the Dance Connection with Virgina Winterhalt.

The SMFA provided some background on this magician of musical magic,” Dianne holds music degrees in piano performance from the University of Saskatchewan, where she studied under Robin Harrison. Her love of choral singing has been a central part of her life. Together with co-director

JoAnne Kasper, Dianne conducted and accompanied several local ensembles, including the Gallery Singers, Battlefords Children’s Choirs, and the Kamala Youth Choir. These groups not only received local and provincial recognition but also represented the Battlefords proudly at festivals across Saskatchewan and beyond, including the prestigious Voices West events initiated by Scott Leithead.”

In addition to her cho-

ral work, SMFA also adds, “Dianne has performed for more than 40 years with her duo-piano partner, Bonnie Nicholson. Her musicianship and collaboration have inspired both audiences and students, leaving a lasting mark on the province’s musical community.”

Boosting Manufacturing Sector Growth

“Dianne’s greatest legacy lies in the lives she has touched—many of her students have gone on to pursue music careers, while others have carried the joy and discipline of music into their chosen professions.”

Gryba’s legacy in the Battlefords is one of generosity, dedication and a profound belief in the power of music to bring people together.

The former Battleford’s resident’s commitment and contributions have been recognized with awards from community organization, the Saskatchewan Choral Federation, and the Saskatchewan Music Educator’s Association.

Applications are now open for the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Investment Tax Credit, a new program designed to help Saskatchewan businesses attract investment and expand operations. This tax credit supports the goals of Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan by driving private-sector investment, creating jobs and strengthening the province’s manufacturing base. Applications for both businesses and investors are being accepted through the SME Tax Credit Online Application Portal at www.smeitcsask.ca/login until June 2028.

VOICE OF BUSINESS

Connecting Voices. Building Business

Find us on Facebook www.battlefordschamber.com

P.O. Box 1000

North Battleford SK S9A 3E6

Phone: 306-445-6226

Canada has a skills gap problem — a big one. There’s a major mismatch between the skills that we need for the economy and the skills that are currently available in the labour market.

To func�on at its peak and provide a be�er life for all Canadians, our economy needs to fill tens of thousands of cri�cal posi�ons in engineering, technical occupa�ons (medical technologists, dental care occupa�ons), higherskill goods (mechanics, electrical trades), and other higher-skill services (nurses, teachers, social services and therapy professionals). The worker shortage in these “clusters”, as categorized by the Conference Board of Canada in a recent report, is cos�ng us a lot — around $2.6 billion this year already!

To put that in perspec�ve, $2.6 billion is roughly the annual budget of the Canada Border Services Agency, which means we could have funded the agency for a whole year on the value lost because of the skills gap. How did the skills gap happen?

The skills gap is a complex problem with many factors contribu�ng to it:

Simply put, we’re short on Canadians.

Popula�on decline: Canada’s popula�on is aging — almost 1 in 5 Canadians are over the age of 65. At the same �me, our fer�lity rate hit a record low of 1.25 children per woman last year, far below the minimum rate of 2.1 children per woman required to maintain a stable popula�on through births alone. Immigra�on is the only reason we’ve had any popula�on growth in the past 10 years.

Immigra�on: For thousands of businesses across Canada, immigra�on is not a ques�on — it’s an impera�ve.

But in 2024, RBC published a report highligh�ng the misalignment between the occupa�ons and skills priori�zed in the immigra�on selec�on process and the reali�es of the labour market. Many of the skills and creden�als that newcomers bring to Canada are not necessarily aligned with what we need to effec�vely address the skills gap. Part of this is due to the fact that the immigra�on system has tradi�onally priori�zed university degrees over other degrees, with college and trade cer�fica�ons underrepresented — only 12% of people coming have college cer�ficates and only 4% have trade cer�ficates — even though two-thirds of the 80% of vacant posi�ons that require formal post-secondary training need non-university creden�als.

Creden�al recogni�on: At the same �me, when newcomers to Canada do have the skills the economy needs, they are o�en prevented from using those skills because their creden�als, educa�on or licenses are not quickly recognized. They are then forced to find other jobs that are not their field or go back to school, delaying their effec�ve integra�on into the labour market.

Educa�on: Canada has one of the mostly highly educated popula�ons in the world. While this is something to be proud of, the degrees students are gradua�ng with are not necessarily in high-demand fields.

Interna�onal students: Data from Immigra�on, Refugees and Ci�zenship Canada shows that between 2018 and 2023, nearly 800,000 study permits were issued to interna�onal students enrolled in business related programs (a low-demand industry), compared to the less than 32,000 permits issued to healthcare related programs and the 36,000 issued to the trades — two high-demand industries included in the Conference Board of Canada’s clusters.

Technology: The rapid emergence of AI has changed the job market. There is a fast-growing need for workers to have skills in the fields of ar�ficial intelligence, robo�cs, quantum and cyber security. With that comes the requirement that graduates have the skills to effec�vely work with new technologies. But, according to a 2025 RBC report, there is a growing gap in graduates’ technical skills related to AI, cyber security and working with big data.

Geography: The skills gap is not experienced the same across our vast country, and each province and city has different needs and different gaps. As the Conference Board of Canada says, “no region in Canada has a surplus of skilled workers sufficient to offset shortages elsewhere.” How do we fill the skills gap?

A mul�faceted problem requires a mul�faceted approach and the combined efforts and insights of all stakeholders — business, educa�on, and government at all levels.

Domes�c talent: We need to consider student success and employer engagement as mutually interdependent. Businesses, chambers of commerce and local government understand the urgent labour needs of their communi�es. Colleges and ins�tutes are a cri�cal part of the talent pipeline. An important part of our collec�ve economic prosperity relies on improving connec�vity and collabora�on between post-secondary and businesses, supply and demand.

A Na�onal Workforce Strategy: Municipal, provincial/territorial, and federal governments, business and educa�onal ins�tu�ons must work together to address current skills shortages and future skills gaps. Only when there are greater dialogue and collabora�on among all stakeholders will we bring about a unified approach to talent that is informed by regional and sectoral needs. -Canadian Chamber of Commerce Upcoming Event Calendar Mimosa Monday

Even as we think about how to best equip youth to succeed a�er gradua�on, we also cannot overstate the importance of lifelong learning and ensuring that Canadians, irrespec�ve of their age, have access to the learning opportuni�es they need to remain relevant and compete in the labour market. Colleges and ins�tutes play a crucial role in upskilling and reskilling workers to keep pace with the evolving needs of business and emerging and already-here technologies.

Interna�onal talent: Currently, there is no unified, na�onal approach to a�rac�ng, developing and retaining interna�onal talent that considers Canada’s specific sectoral needs as well as specific regional needs. This necessitates more collabora�on among all levels of government, par�cularly in rela�on to the federal and provincial/territorial selec�on of immigrants. We need a system that respects the constraints of the community, the needs of employers, and the rights of the employees. And this can only happen if temporary and permanent immigra�on are situated within our economy, and provinces are meaningfully involved in decision-making.

Piano Heist show promises to get people in the holiday spirit

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD

— People of all ages will enjoy this musical comedy show coming to the Battlefords.

The Piano Heist runs Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at the Dekker Centre.

The show features accomplished pianists Nico Rhodes and Patrick Courtin performing Christmas favourites.

“We put our own twist on things,” said Rhodes. “We’re playing a lot of Christmas songs and repertoire that people will recognize, because, obviously, there’s so much great music that’s been written for the season.”

The show also includes a lot of crazy antics the audience will enjoy.

“We’re also very comedic, and we’re both arrangers,” said Rhodes. “So, we take some pretty wild liberties, both musically and comedically, with these things. Whether that means we’re wearing crazy outfits and dancing around the stage, or we’re playing songs in ways

people wouldn’t expect, or we’re getting the audience to participate in sort of funny and absurd ways, there’s always a twist.”

There are also sing-along moments in the performance.

“We’re sort of in the tradition of Victor Borge, sort of like an instrumental comedy theatre duo,” Rhodes said. “Really, we’re here to make people laugh.”

Both from B.C., the pair are also storytellers and will share their humorous anecdotes with the audience.

“We’ve been friends for 31 years,” said Rhodes. “We both studied piano since we were three or four, originally to be concert pianists. Then, we got into jazz and rock, and these other kinds of things.”

The Piano Heist is currently on tour for four weeks. In addition to North Battleford, the show will also run in Biggar and Saskatoon. Rhodes encourages people to check out their videos online.

“We’re just here to have a good time, make people laugh and smile, and get them in the holiday spirit,” he said.

DECEMBER

DECEMBER

EARLY DEADLINES

Tuesday, December 23rd issue (No Thurs. issue)

Early deadline to book is Wednesday, December 17th at 11 AM

Tuesday, December 30th issue (No Thurs. issue)

Early deadline to book is Monday, December 22nd at 11 AM

news-optimist

NB Toys for Tickets campaign turns parking fines into donations

By Angela Brown SaskToday.ca

NORTH BATTLEFORD

— People receiving a parking ticket in North Battleford over the holiday season will be able to turn their ticket into something good with the Toys for Tickets campaign.

The City of North Battleford discussed the campaign at council’s meeting on Nov. 27.

From Dec. 1 to 19, people who receive a parking ticket from community safety officers have the option to pay their fine by donating a new toy of equal or higher value. The city notes that early

payment discounts still apply.

Donors should bring unwrapped toys as well as the purchase receipt to City Hall. All collected toys will be donated to Battlefords Interval House.

Mayor Kelli Hawtin hopes it will be a good way to help the community.

“If you get a $40 parking ticket, you can bring a $40 toy to City Hall to pay that parking ticket instead of the cash,” she said. “We collect the toys, and then in December those all get donated to the Battlefords Interaval House.”

Parking tickets range from $20 to $60 depending on

whether they are paid prior to the discount period deadline.

“We don’t love giving parking tickets but we have to enforce our bylaws,” said Hawtin. “But this kind of turns a not so great thing into a way to give back to the community.”

City director of protective services Lindsay Holm said last year around $2,000 worth of toys were donated in the campaign.

“I think that there were three truck loads that we took over,... and it turned out fantastic,” he said. “It was just a great initiative. It’s something we want to continue doing.”

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BROWNELL: The family of Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Brownell, would like to announce her peaceful passing at Battlefords District Care on Monday, November 3, 2025 at the age of 94 and a half years old. Betty was born in Edam on June 6, 1931 to Warren and Agnes Brownell. She is predeceased by her parents; brother, Rae (Donald) and wife, Moreah Sheldon; sister, Joan and husband, frank Simpson; and brother-in-law, George Lessard. She is survived by sister, Dianne Lessard; brother, Jim and wife, Millie Brownell; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Betty attended school in Minnehaha until grade 8, when the family moved to Meota to operate a dairy farm. Upon completion of high school, she attended Normal School in Saskatoon and went on to teach elementary school for 35 years. Betty’s career took her to Saskatchewan, British Columbia, New Brunswick and she returned to Nipawin to complete her career. She returned to North Battleford in 1990 to assist with her parents’ care. Betty’s biggest regret was not fitting Newfoundland and Whitehorse into her travels. Betty did love traveling. She crossed Canada three time by car and twice by train and had so many stories about her adventures. Betty was very active in the Royal Canadian Legion, holding many executive positions over the years. Other activities she enjoyed were softball, curling and golf and she always had a trusted poodle dog companion by her side. A graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Betty can be directed to Lung Saskatchewan, 2308 Arlington Ave, Saskatoon, SK S7J 3L3 or to the Battlefords District Care Centre, Box 69, Battleford, SK S0M 0E0. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium–Alyssa Kozinski Apprentice Funeral Director

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1.On Call Casual Aide/Transporter

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CLOSING DATE: December 13, 2025 (may be extended until position(s) filled)

1.Adult Outreach Worker

2.Youth Outreach Worker

The term of the lease will be from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2028. Cancellation of the lease by either party is subject to six months written notice.

Sealed tenders must be in the Municipal Office at the address below no later than 3:00 p.m. December 9, 2025.

Highest or any tender may not necessarily be accepted.

Dated this 4th day of December, 2025.

Post Majority Support Services (PMSS) – 1 position

Please visit our website https://keyanowcfc.com – Career Opportunities for further information.

1.Junior Finance Officer (PMSS)

CLOSING DATE: May 17, 2025

Nicole Collins, Administrator R.M. of North Battleford No. 437 Box 187 (Highway 4 North, Forest Hall Road) North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y1

&

Town of Battleford

Please visit our website https://keyanowcfc.com –Career Opportunities for further information.

Employment Opportunity

Town Hall Administration Executive Assistant

The Town of Battleford is seeking a dedicated and experienced individual to serve as Town Hall Administration Executive Assistant. Non-Union, full-time permanent position. This position requires a professional with extensive knowledge of municipal government operations, exceptional organizational and communication skills, proven ability to handle confidential and politically sensitive information with discretion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and distribute Council and Committee meeting agenda packages as per the Municipalities Act and Council Procedures Bylaw.

• Record, transcribe and maintain Council and Committee minutes with accuracy and timeliness.

• Maintain official bylaws, resolutions, policy registers, ensuring all bylaws, contracts, agreements are properly executed and archived.

Draft, proof and prepare professional correspondence, reports and briefing notes for Council, Administration and external agencies.

Coordinate Council appointments to boards and committees and maintain accurate records.

Assist with preparation and publication of public notices, tenders, and advertisements within legislative timelines.

Maintain accurate and secure filing systems, records and databases.

Conduct research and compile background materials for Council reports, policy development and communications.

Support internal and external communications between the CAO’s Office, Mayor’s Office Council and Staff.

Adhere to the Town’s Code of Conduct, Confidentiality Policy and Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).

Plan and coordinate Town events, receptions and ceremonial functions as directed by the CAO.

• Serve as Commissioner of Oaths when required.

• Aid front-line administrative staff as needed.

• Perform other related duties as assigned by the CAO. Qualifications:

Minimin five (5) years’ experience in municipal government administrative role or an equivalent senior administrative position.

Post-secondary education in Business or Office Administration, Local Government Administration Certificate from the University of Regina (or equivalent).

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and electronic records management systems. Must be bondable.

Occupational Health and Safety (OH & S) Levels 1 and 2.

First Aid and CPR certification.

Compensation:

Salary Range: $50,000 - $70,000 annually

Benefits:

◊ Comprehensive health and dental benefits package

◊ MEPP Pension Plan (with employer match)

◊ Professional development opportunities

◊ Supportive team environment

Application Details:

• Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to: Town of Battleford

Email: cao@battleford.ca

Subject Line: Application – Town Hall Administration – Executive Assistant Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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FIREARMS

Library features local work at mini art gallery

By Kathy Utri Correspondent

The 2025 Festival of Trees was a great success. Maidstone Health Care Auxiliary is so grateful to everyone

who gave monetary donations, silent auction items, time, effort and advice, provided entertainment, placed bids or just came in to say hello. Through your generosity, we will continue to

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 30th day of January, 2024, as Interest Number 198415749 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 20 day of November, 2025.

Hyde Investments Limited

Name of Assessed Owner

Per:

THE TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Blk/Par A Plan No 102343395 Extension 0 Title Number: 153254987

FORM G [Section 2.7]

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE tthat the Village of Edam intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 9th day of May, 2023, as Interest Number 196528225 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Village of Edam pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land

DATED at Edam, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 22 day of November, 2025.

provide needed equipment and comfort items for Maidstone Health Complex. Santa’s Café will be open to greet you again next year.

Maidstone Bowling top scores last week were Youth Junior: Parker 152, William 132, Senior: Ben 198, Caley 132; Ladies: Debbie N 212, Sandra M 195, Dorinda F 183; Mixed Individual: Keith M 196, Pat A 194, Keven K 179; Business League Women: Joyce G 228, Sandra M 219, Dawn K 207, Men: Glenn W 238, Wes B 227, Kyle S 221; High Triple: Glenn W 631, Joyce G 560, Pat A 550, Debbie N 549.

Maidstone Legion Club

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MEOTA NO. 468

Public Notice – Official Community Plan Amendment and Zoning Bylaw Amendment

Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 (RM) intends to adopt two (2) bylaws under The Planning and Development Act, 2007; Bylaw No. 26-2025 to amend Bylaw No. 382024 known as the Official Community Plan (OCP), and Bylaw No. 24-2025 to amend Bylaw No. 39-2024 known as the Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT: Bylaw No. 26-2025: to be consistent with a recent Provincial Government change to The Statements of Provincial Interest regarding flood elevation levels.

Bylaw No. 24-2025: to clean up some inconsistencies within the bylaw, clarifying fence height and setbacks, corner lot setbacks, RPSR requirements for uncovered decks or when multiple developments are included on one permit, and defining when a permit is required for retaining walls and decks regardless of size or area. Additionally, adding in temporary winter storage as a use, and introducing permanent construction camps as a permitted use within the Agriculture District. Rectifying the contradiction of market gardens and tree nurseries being listed as both a permitted use and a discretionary use. Finally, amending definitions to reflect above changes such as building, corner lot, corner lot visibility triangle, site coverage, park model home, and 1:200 flood hazard elevation.

AFFECTED LAND: All lands within the RM of Meota will be affected by this amendment.

REASON: Bylaw No. 26-2025 is amended to clarify that the flood elevation level will align with The Statements of Provincial Interest, a change from 1:500-year flood elevation to 1:200-year flood elevation.

Room’s latest Chase the Ace winner was Marnie Matthews, taking home $193 but leaving the jackpot, which climbs over $4,000 this week with 43 numbers remaining. Get tickets at the Club Room or by e-transfer to maidstone142@gmail.com. Also, remember to get 50/50 tickets for the draw on Dec. 14 by e-transfer to 5050legion142@mail.com or at the Club Room.

Check out the Crafty Corner in Rocky’s Café (105-1st Ave. E., Maidstone). Local and handmade, the unique treasures make perfect gifts or tokens of appreciation. Gift certificates are also available.

With the start of a new month, Maidstone Library has changed its artwork display. This month features photographs by Brenda Mitchell, Ugly Christmas Sweaters by Ms. Jacquest’s Grade 3 class and artwork by Mr. Dawson’s Grade 12 students. There is no cost to visit the mini art gallery.

Continued on page 13

THE VILLAGE OF EDAM

Per: , Treasurer

G&M Combo Services Inc. c/o Jim Bec

Name of Assessed Owner

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 10 Blk/Par 12 Plan No

Title Number: 140181577

78B10004 Extension 0

Bylaw No. 24-2025 is amended to correct various inconsistencies within the bylaw regarding numbering and section references. Fence height and setbacks are clarified regarding corner lot setbacks and setback from front property lines. Post development RPSR for uncovered decks are not required if they are the only development applied for. Temporary winter storage as a permitted use within Lakeshore Districts to allow for storage from September to May of recreational vehicles, boats, ice shacks, canoes, and similar items is added. Permanent construction camps as a permitted use within the Agriculture District is added because temporary construction camps were only allowed for 6 months. Market gardens and tree nurseries were listed as both permitted and discretionary use; this is rectified by removing them as a permitted use. Finally, definitions within the bylaw to support above changes are clarified.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM Office during regular business hours, excluding statutory holidays. Hard copies will be available to the public at a cost at the RM Office. Digital copies can be obtained by contacting the Development Coordinator (development@rmmeota468.ca; 306-892-2061).

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing at 1:15pm on January 7 th, 2026, in the RM office to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaws. Public may attend meetings via teleconference or in person. If you wish to attend the meeting via teleconference, please contact the RM administrator, Kirk Morrison, at cao@rmmeota468.ca requesting a meeting link invitation. Council will also consider written comments received on or before 12:00 noon January 2 nd, 2026, at the RM office by hardcopy or email before the hearing. The RM office is located at 300 1st Street East, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0. The RM Office contact information is (306) 892-2061 or development@rmmeota468.ca

Issued by the Rural Municipality of Meota No. 468 this November 18th, 2025.

Kids club, school dance and museum raffle among upcoming events

Continued from page 12 Kids Club was not this week as I had thought. It is coming up on Monday, Dec. 8, at Grace Community Church (212-4th Ave. E.) from 3:15 to 5 p.m. MST for kids kindergarten age and older. Please pre-register with Melanie. She will meet your kids at school and walk over to the church. This month’s theme is Christmas: songs, stories, games, crafts and

snacks.

Ratushniak Elementary is having an afternoon of fun, music and holiday spirit with a school-wide dance on Friday, Dec. 12, from 1:40 to 2:40 p.m. Students enter the dance by bringing a non-perishable food item to support the local food bank. Glow sticks can be pre-purchased on School Cash Online and will be delivered to classrooms before the dance. At

FORM G [Section 2.7]

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 28th day of May, 2021, as Interest Number 200150648 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 26 day of November, 2025.

Jeffrey Edmund Brunet

Name of Assessed Owner

TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Per:

the dance, students can win prizes for Best Dance Moves, Best Dance Duo/Group, Best Christmas Hat, Best Christmas Outfit and Holiday Spirit Award.

The elementary school’s Division 1 school concert takes place in the Maidstone High School gymnasium on Wednesday, Dec. 17, with shows at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. MST. Please enter through the elementary

school doors. There will be a silver collection.

Maidstone Museum still has lots of tickets to sell for their cash raffle in support of much-needed repairs and activities. As a board member, I have tickets to sell and would be more than happy to bring you one. Call me at 306-8932799 or 306-893-7378. They are also available at Synergy Credit Union, Keranda Industrial Supply, the Legion Club

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 30th day of January, 2024, as Interest Number 198415750 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 20 day of November, 2025.

Seal

Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 31 Blk/Par 7 Plan No H376 Extension 0 Title Number: 157994544

FORM G [Section 2.7]

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 30th day of January, 2024, as Interest Number 198415918 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 20 day of November, 2025.

Karson William Montour

Name of Assessed Owner

THE TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Per: Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 21 Blk/Par 8 Plan

Room, Making Waves Salon, Elliott Insurance or from any board member. If you prefer, e-transfer to maidstonemuseum306@gmail.com, making sure to include your name and phone number in the message. Prizes are 30 per cent of sales up to $3,000, 15 per cent up to $1,500 and five per cent up to $500, with the chance of winning all three. The draw will be made on Dec. 20.

Reminders:

• Saturday, Dec. 6–Milleton Community Hall Christmas Supper 5 p.m. MST.

• Sunday, Dec. 7–Waseca Community Centre Santa and Mrs. Claus Day, 4 to 7 p.m. MST.

• Saturday, Dec. 13–Winter Fun Fest at Maidstone Museum, 2 to 5 p.m. MST. Fireworks at 5 p.m.

• Sunday, Dec. 14–Legion Christmas Supper.

FORM G [Section 2.7]

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 28th day of May, 2021, as Interest Number 190899679 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 26 day of November, 2025.

Karson William Montour Name of Assessed Owner

THE

TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Per: Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 22 Blk/Par 8 Plan No H376 Extension 0 Title Number: 149568148

FORM G [Section 2.7]

FINAL NOTICE PURSUANT TO THE TAX ENFORCEMENT ACT

TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Cut Knife intends, on the expiration of 30 days from the date set out below, to request the Registrar of Titles to issue title to the land described below by virtue of an interest based on a Tax Lien registered against the existing title to that land in the Land Registry on the 30th day of January, 2024, as Interest Number 198415817 UNLESS you redeem that land pursuant to the provisions of the Act within 30 days from the date set out below, and that on issue of title for that land to the Town of Cut Knife pursuant to that request, you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to or in respect of that land.

DATED at Cut Knife, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 20 day of November, 2025.

Karson William Montour

Name of Assessed Owner

THE TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Per: Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 20 Blk/Par 8 Plan No H376 Extension 0 Title Number:

Seal

Jeffrey Edmund Brunet Name of Assessed Owner

TOWN OF CUT KNIFE

Per: Deborah Schaefer, Treasurer

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF LANDS:

Lot 32 Blk/Par 7 Plan No H376 Extension 0 Title Number: 134816968

NOTICE

The Tax Enforcement Act PETER BIDLOCK

TAKE NOTICE that the Rural Municipality of Meeting Lake No 466 intends to be registered as owner under the above Act of the land described as LOT 4-BLK/PAR 4-PLAN 78B14134 EXT 0 Title No. 118682613, LOT 7-BLK/PAR 5-PLAN 78B14134 EXT 0 Title 118682208 and LOT 8-BLK/ PAR 5-PLAN 78B14134 EXT 0 Title 118682185

The municipality claims title to the land by virtue of an interest based on the tax lien registered against the existing title to the land in the Land Titles Registry as Interest Numbers 200883191, 200883247, 200883180 and you are required to TAKE NOTICE that unless you contest the claim of the municipality or redeem the land pursuant to the provisions of the above Act within six months from the service of this notice on you and, subject to the further provisions of The Tax Enforcement Act, a certificate of title will be issued to the applicant and you will thereafter be forever estopped and debarred from setting up any claim to, or in respect of, the land.

The amount required to redeem the land may be ascertained on application to the Clerk, Treasurer or Administrator of the municipality. For any questions about the tax enforcement process please contact Taxervice at 1-877-734-3113.

Dated this 25th day of November, 2025.

Janelle Lavallee, Administrator Rural Municipality of Meeting Lake

Cattle trucks on the move; please give them space

By Elaine Woloshyn Correspondent

Looks like Christmas season will be “white.” It’s the traditional prairie Christmas that we all want because without snow, it doesn’t feel “Christmasy.”

Condolences to the Kyliuk family of Mayfair on the passing of 50-year-old Billie Phillips of North Battleford. He owned land at Mullingar, which he rented to local farmers.

Alice Pidwerbeski, 101, recently passed away. She was one of the pioneers who grew up in the Redfield district, then became a school teacher in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Her final years were at Harwood Manor, North Battleford. Redfield is between Mayfair and the rolling hills of Whitkow. Deepest sympathy is extended to the Pidwerbeski family.

Flying Dust Cree First Nation No. 105, adjacent to Meadow Lake, is hosting a community Christmas dinner on Dec. 8 in the North Battleford Western Development Museum. It starts at 5 p.m., then a week later in Meadow Lake.

Under 11 Tier 2 Unity hockey team is hosting Unity Christmas Craft Market this Saturday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission at the door is by silver collection.

This past Sunday, Mayfair was buzzing with excitement as the Christmas sale went over well. Many vendors from as far as Prince Albert were selling interesting items and delicious baking. The weather turned colder, but people still took the time to attend to support the vendors and have a bowl of homemade soup, a bun and a slice of pie for reasonable prices. Thanks to the volunteers who work endlessly for this annual event.

Longtime Mayfair senior

resident, Alice Grigor, likes to have visitors as she lives in Battlefords District Care Centre. She taught school for many years in nearby villages and her husband, Doug (deceased), owned a garage in Mullingar.

Once again, North Battleford Western Development Museum has a delightful outdoor Christmas display.

“Light Up the Village” is open from Dec. 1 to 31 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $12 a vehicle or $35 for a one-month pass. Folks, if you are having company over the holiday season, the $35 pass is a great deal. Many houses and blocks light up with decorations, including large inflatables. Just think back 100 years ago, when all this was not possible. Perhaps a burning candle or a coal oil lamp perched on the windowsill of a house, or for a few minutes, the family’s freshly cut Christmas tree with candles somehow sitting on the branches. The pioneers also experienced festive activities without all the TV commercials promoting the purchase of big, expensive gifts for their loved ones. In this day and age, many credit and debit cards have been used to the hilt. Sometimes the simple gifts are best.

The weekly cattle markets are still going strong at Meadow Lake, Prince Albert and Lloydminster stockyards. The ranchers and farmers pulling the livestock trailers do travel more slowly on the main highways, so please be courteous to them.

Mayfair All Saints Catholic Church is having a Christmas Eve mass at 5:30 p.m. Everyone of all faiths is welcome to attend. The service in Hafford’s St. Solange Church is a few hours later. Congratulations to the Medstead senior boys’ volleyball team on winning provincial silver medals in the final game against the

host team. The Rouleau School team were awarded the gold medals.

There is a Christmas-themed event in Medstead on Monday, Dec. 15, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. There

will be many activities in and outside the community hall, including games, crafts, street hockey and Christmas carolling with an outdoor fire pit. Keep warm by drinking hot chocolate

inside and out.

As I’m writing my news, I’m deeply saddened by the passing of my dear sister-in -law, Marie Gregoire of St Brieux (near Melfort). She was a kind, loving, cheerful

generous lady who always smiled and will be missed by many. This is my oldest brother Ron’s wife. Ron has lived in a senior care home in St. Brieux since this past summer.

Surviving winter inside...

By Patricia Hanbidge Horticulturist

So far, winter has been what winter seems to be–cold! I guess that is what we expect but with that cold and cars not starting also comes less comfort for us even being inside. Winter is infinitely more liveable with a higher rate of humidity! Our homes are adversely affected by the dry air we are living with. Our furniture cracks, our hair stands on end and our houseplants are crying for just a little bit of humidity in the air that surrounds us.

This dryness in the winter is more prevalent in our climate. Warm air as we have in the summer will hold more water thus raising the relative humidity rate. Relative humidity is the amount of water that is held in the air relative to the maximum amount of moisture the air could be holding if saturated. Even in the summer, our air is kind of dry – but in the winter, it is even drier! Winter is dry but when it gets very cold, the relative humidity is less – which makes the cold weather even worse and when the temperature plummets to minus stupid the humidity is almost non-existent!

On the prairies, our homes are so much drier in winter as there is a very large temperature differential between the great outdoors and inside our homes.

The very cold air contains very little moisture and when that air is warmed it feels extremely dry. The air will actually “grab” moisture from any available surface like our skin and our houseplants. The battle against desiccation is endless.

A couple of years ago, I made an investment that cost around $100. I purchased a middle of the road cold air humidifier that would hydrate our living space. The water reservoir is easy to fill and takes about 3 minutes of time each day to fill it up. What it has done for us is provide a much more hospitable atmosphere in which to live. It is amazing that none of our clothing has static electricity while we are at home. Once we leave to go to school and work, the static takes no time to invade! The solution is not endless cans of static guard but simply to walk back into the house and miraculously, our clothes become less clingy!

Our skin becomes almost dewy and our hair begins to naturally curl. Our houseplants are happier and exhibit many fewer problems with pests and diseases.

Sometimes an investment like a humidifier is delayed due to other techniques that we hope will hydrate our space. For example, misting plants is a task that is often enjoyed by many. However, misting has a beneficial effect for a minute

or two. As the air is so dry, that little bit of moisture is quickly slurped up and really is a waste of time.... except for the fact that it makes us feel better!

If you would like to help your plants feel more hydrated, try grouping them together on trays that are filled with pebbles covered in water. This will raise the humidity directly around the plants and will make them much more comfortable.

Another effective way to help raise the humidity in your home without investing in a humidifier is to simply lower the temperature in the home. For every 1degree F of decreased temperature, the relative humidity increases by 4 per cent. So if you can reduce the temperature each night in your home and when you are away at work or at play, the humidity will increase to a level that will make both you and your plants smile!

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www. orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail.com on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort.

Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW… https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?