Battlefords News-Optimist

SGI and its law enforcement partners say they are moving to a month-long traffic safety focus for 2014, replacing the two-day traffic safety blitzes of 2013.

The Kelvington/Rose Valley RCMP are seeking public assistance in locating Dennis Malischewski. A ground and aerial search has been done in the Kelvington Snowmobile trails area near Kelvington, Saskatchewan.

WHELAN - Mr. Joseph Whelan passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2013 at the Battlefords Union Hospital. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, January 3, 2014 @ 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Father Anthony Afanagide presiding.

Twenty enthusiastic members of Rivers' Edge Quilters held their first meeting of 2014 Jan. 3 at the Don Ross Craft Room. A report was received indicating that 15 Walker bags had been donated to the residents of Villa Pascal.

Citing family and business pressures, Trent Houk has resigned from city council. Houk's resignation, which takes effect immediately, was announced in a letter to Mayor Ian Hamilton and council, which was read by Hamilton.

The Battlefords Beaver Blues will have their own Hockey Day in Canada celebration this weekend. Battleford is hosting Minor Hockey Night for Saturday's game against the Maymont Settlers.

2013 was a life-changing year for Tammy Donahue Buziak. The chair of the City of North Battleford's centennial committee and part time archivist is moving into 2014 with new priorities, one less job - and a new haircut.

MILNTHORP - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chris Milnthorp, late of Battleford, on Thursday, December 26, 2013, three days before her 75th birthday.

FENRICH - Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Trudy Fenrich (Fen-rick) of North Battleford was held on Monday, December 23, 2013 @ 2:00 p.m. from the Zion Lutheran Church in North Battleford with Pastor Sheldon Gattinger officiating.

Today, I'm devoting this entire First Person story to frogs. Exciting stuff. Those of you familiar with the Battlefords know stuffed animals have a prominent role in the life of our community.