There was an election for reeve of the RM of Glenside April 7 at the RM office in Biggar. Coady Dher was elected out of three candidates. Coady will take over after Elmer Dove passed away in January.
Former Baljennie resident, Vernon Custer, had his first COVID-19 vaccination in January, then in February became ill with COVID-19. He recovered in  late February.  Vernon now has had his second COVID-19 vaccination.  He was in the hospital in palliative care for five days last week, but now is back at River Heights Lodge. Vernon is slowly getting his strength back and hoping for a full recovery.
Fire bans are being issued by most RMs in the area. Those planning to burn should obtain a permit and take great care. So far, no serious, out-of-control fires have been reported. A lack of moisture has left last year’s growth in a tinder-dry condition.
It is almost planting time and nurseries are starting to open up offering many varieties to choose from. Everyone is doing more gardening due to COVID-19. Plants will sell out fast. Seed supplies are also running low or are even sold out.
The ice on the North Saskatchewan and Battle Rivers has broken up. Take care when near the rivers as the water can be dangerous this time of year. Also be careful near dugouts and ponds. The ice is not safe.
Sad news came of the passing of Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh. He did like to come to Canada. He will be missed by all. A small family funeral was held for him April 16.
Finning Cat building west of Battleford on Highway 16 is still busy as a site for administering COVID-19 vaccinations. It will take some time as there are many left to be inoculated.
Curling fans will know that Sweden prevailed at the world men’s curling championship held in the Calgary bubble earlier this month. The organizers had formed a perfect bubble until the last three games. There was report of COVID-19 positive tests that disrupted proceedings temporarily. Canada’s team earned an Olympic berth. World women’s curling is slated to begin April 30 and run until Mother’s Day. Hopefully there will be no more trouble with the security of the bubble.
Warmer weather is well on the way. Grasses are starting to green up. The crocuses are in bloom. The crows, gulls and Canada geese are back and nesting. Other spring birds are beginning to arrive. The whooping and sand hill cranes are passing through with a few stopovers in the area. The gophers are out and about.
It’s tick time, so be vigilant. They are prevalent in small dry shrubs, grasses and weeds. They are just waiting to catch a ride on people and animals.
The farmers have been busy hauling product to market and getting new seed to plant. They are also getting their spring machinery lined up and repairs done to be ready to go. Some field work has started and will be in full swing soon.
