Time to look to your community

As Bill Hall says, "Hard to believe, but it is that time of year again."

What the executive director of the food bank in North Battleford is referring to is the commencement of the annual Empty Stocking Fund campaign.

First up, the funds and supplies have to be procurred, and that has already begun.

The Cowboy Harvest Parade and Cowboy Lunch held in Battleford and at the Fort Oct. 5, was the first on the agenda for a number of events aimed at making sure to fill as many empty stockings as possible this upcoming holiday season.

Event number two will be Tuesday Nov. 12 at 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 at Third Avenue United Church. Be sure to attend the beef on a bun kick-off.

Applications are being taken for hampers on Monday, Nov. 25 and Friday, Dec. 6 at the food bank on 101st Streeet. A number of events will follow, including concerts and bell ringing, leading up to the distribution of hampers Sunday Dec. 22.

Battlefords Publishing will be doing its part, holding in-plant events such as pot lucks and contests to raise funds. we urge others to pitch in.

Watch future editions of the News-Optimist and the Regional Optimist for further announcements on Empty Stocking Fund events.

As the weather cools, it's time to think about safety for kids. The Battlefords Indian Métis Friendship Centre is hosting the third annual Gord Slater Jacket Drive Kids Carnival and Dance Saturday, Nov. 9 from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. Contact Gord at 306-480-0507 or at [email protected].

Do you have time to save a life? There will be a blood donor clinic at the Don Ross Centre in North Battleford on Wednesday, Nov. 6 from 2 to 8 p.m., sponsored by the North Battleford Lions Club. Book your appointment at www.blood.ca or by calling 1-888-236-6283 (that's 1 888 2 DONATE).

Next Monday is Remembrance Day. Watch for our Thursday Regional Optimist for information on local observances of remembrance.

Veterans Affairs Canada states that the date is of "remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace."

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