Many attend Shurniak Art Gallery Fundraiser
Many people who attended the fundraiser at the Shurniak Art Gallery on June 23 were singing their own version of the song, “Went to a Garden Party”. Their version would include praises for the excellent performance by Jeffery Trakker and his accompanist Brinn.
The concert was a preview of Strakker’s newest record that features songs about rural Sask., one about grain elevators that had the crowd recalling those sentinels of our rural landscape that are fast disappearing. The duo spent time connecting with the audience in
very personal ways, that endeared them to the performers and their music.
There was no shortage of things to do during the afternoon, and most of the activities were just for fun. Highest points in the bean bag toss went to Howard Ellis who won a gift certificate. There were many donations from many local businesses, people could spin a wheel and win one of a variety of prizes, plants, gift cards, tickets and forced photo just for the fun of playing the game.
Added to the afternoon were games of changes as
well. Participants could enter to win a set of three beautiful photographs who were won by Graham Harvey.
The Penny Parade attracted many of the attendees who were blown away by the value and quality of the prizes offered. Everything was planned to git the theme of the Garden Party.
Tickets were placed in a series of watering cans. The prizes themselves reflected the theme, from an attractive hand painted birdhouse to a bird bath, garden tools, outdoor toys, straw hats and sunglasses and much more.
A photo scene in the
courtyard which was painted by the high school students at ACHS, provided folds with a way to create a photo memory of a funfilled afternoon. People in attendance enjoyed fresh fruit and enjoyed iced tea as part of the experience.
The afternoon ended with a traditional prairie picnic meal of various salads, pulled port and beef on a bun which could be enjoyed al fresco or in the air condition interior of the gallery. It was an event not to be missed, and one which will hopefully be repeated next summer.
Extracurricular awards presented to ACHS students
As the school year ends, the extracurricular awards have been presented to students at the Assiniboia Composite High School.
Starting off with the golf team the male MVP award was given to Eric Helland and the female MVP award was given to Harper Berner. Both athletes performed at an elevated level and showed qualities like leadership and team spirit. Then the Sportsmanship award was given to Michaela Bumbac for her positive attitude and outlook on the game and for the way she played the game with integrity and honour.
For the football awards Langston Gold received the MVP award for his speed and elusiveness throughout games and the Most Coachable award was given to Nick Nelson for his positive attitude and how he put his heart into everything he did for the team.
This year’s senior girl’s volleyball red team MVP award went to Khanesia Warken for her perseverance, dedication, and positive leadership she had over the team. The Most Coachable Award was given to Naysa Zahariuk for her constant strides to improve her skills throughout the season. The Heart and Hustle Award was given to Kayley Beaubien for putting in effort and hard work, all with a smile. The Most Improved award was given to Aspen
Watteyne for her relentless quest for the ball, leading her to improve significantly over the season.
The senior girl’s volleyball black team MVP award was presented to Michaela Bumbac for her display of her love of the game and showed how she was an integral part of the team this year. The Most Coachable award was given to Jorja Ciocia for putting time and effort into her skills and looked for advice and guidance from her coaches when she needed it. The Heart and Hustle Award was given to Jenika Stevenson for the way she encouraged her team and because of the way she supported those around her.
The senior boy’s volleyball team MVP award was given to Keaton Hillmer for his skill set and drive that directly aided the team through the season. The Most Coachable award was given to Ty Reid who motivated and encouraged all his teammates to work hard and be the best athletes they could be. The Heart and Hustle award was presented to Gier Peterson for his strong work ethic in both games and practices and for the way he always strives to better himself for the team. The Most Improved award went to Mason Rasmussen who started as a player who was occasionally subbed into
games to being a necessity on the starting lineup of games.
In the junior girl’s volleyball team, the MVP award was given to Charlize Hillmer for always being the loudest on the court and for her ability to lead the team. The Most Dedicated awarded was received by Kyrra Ramos for being made it every practice and game. The Most Coachable award was given to Ava Coghill for ability to learn throughout the season with a smile and dedication that helped her improve every day.
In the junior boy’s category Drayden Fafard received the Most Improved Award for the way he took on leading roles that challenged him to be the best athlete he could this year. The MVP award was given to Quade Farr who consistently served well and who played a huge leading role on the court.
After a 10-year hiatus the Drama club came back with a bang. The Most Dedicated Actor award was given to Cassie Strube who took to drama immediately. She showed her love for drama by putting in hours for memorizing lines and acting. The Most Dedicated Crew award was presented to Niamh Hickey for her flexibility and accommodation when things went wrong. She was a great stage manager and displayed her love for drama through-
out the whole production.
In the E-sports club the MVP award was given to Austin Nelson who encouraged and supported the grade 9s in the daily Super Smash Bros battles and he was pivotal in organizing two school-wide tournaments. The E-sports Coaches Award went to Braxton Blackwell, one of the original club members, and aided in organizing the school tournaments.
This year’s curling Coaches award was given to two people. Firstly, Nick Nelson for improving his skills and showing how much effort and dedication he has put into this year. Secondly the Coaches Award was given to Ayesha Martin for showing great commitment to the game and for working hard to master the sport. Then the Most Improved award was given to Martin Lozada who started curling this year and after each practice he learned something new and used that to improve significantly.
In the senior badminton team, the MVP award was given to Ty Reid for his strong way of playing on the court that led to many big wins for the team. The senior Most Coachable award was given to Keaton Hillmer because he always seeked out advice and always used it to become a better player on the court.
In the junior badminton team, the MVP award went to Eric Helland whose attention to detail led to vast improvement in his skills which was evident in his great successes this year. The junior Most Coachable award was presented to Rylee Huys for her dedication to learning new skills and for her impressive work ethic displayed over the season.
In the senior girl’s basketball category Khanesia Warken received the MVP award for her leadership skills, dedication to inspiring others and lifting the team up to ambitious standards. The Most Coachable award was given to Michaela Bumbac because she stepped up to play every position on the court. She did things out of her comfort zone with a smile on her face.
In the junior girl’s basketball category, the MVP award was given to Anya Willis due to the presence on the team that brought a positive attitude to the team. The
Most Coachable award went to both Kaelyn Snape and Ava Coghill. Kaelyn Snape received this award for her desire to learn throughout the season and for her ability to listen and learn from her coaches. Ava Coghill received this award for her ability to face new challenges with a positive attitude even if it meant she had to step out of her comfort zone.
In the senior boy’s basketball team, the MVP award was given to Grayson Ciocia who was a player the team could rely on and was the best perimeter defender on the team. The Heart and Hustle award was given to Mason Rasmussen for his extreme dedication in both games and practices.
The Most Coachable award went to Josiah McDonald because no matter what was asked of him, he always listened and followed instructions given by the coaches, he was also a pivotal member in bringing the team together. The Most Dedicated Award went to Hayden Mansuy for his restlessness in his dedication on and off the bench as both a player and an unofficial assistant coach, even when he hurt his knee midway through the season, he still made sure to be at every practice and game.
In the junior boy’s basketball team Keagan Haug received the MVP award since when he set his mind to something he was sure to finish it to the best of his ability. The Most Coachable award went to Dawson Ciocia for his ability to do everything that was asked of him to the best of his ability. The Most Improved award was given to Ryan Corcoran for his hard work in slowing the game down and doing everything to contribute to the team.
This year’s track and field MVP awards go to Grayson Ciocia and Kayley Beaubien. Grayson Ciocia advanced to provincials in three events and placed 10th in the senior boy’s hurdles. Kayley Beaubien advanced to the provincial in the senior girls 400m race. Both athletes showed leadership, amazing work ethic and dedication to the sport.
In the individual awards category, students can accumulate points from grade 9-12 for every extra-curricular activity they are involved in, through which they can receive Merit awards in
Bronze, Silver, or Gold. This can prove to be quite difficult when extensive participation is needed to earn these points. This year Khanesia Warken achieved the Bronze Level Merit award. Also, in the individual awards category the Chantal Chabot Memorial Award is given to one grade 9 who displays the same traits as Chantal Chabot, such as enthusiasm, hard work, cooperation, friendliness, kindness, an excellent work ethic, a sense of school spirit and tries hard in both academics and sports. This year’s recipient is Charlize Hillmer.
The last individual awards are given to the top male and female athletes from the year in both the senior year and junior year categories. This year’s seniors male and female athlete of the year is Grayson Ciocia and Kayley Beaubien. Then this year’s junior male and female athletes of the year is Eric Helland and Ava Coghill.
The finial award is the Performance of the Year award, which is awarded to the player or team that had the best performance at the highest level of their sport; this year’s performance of the Year award goes to the senior boy’s volleyball team for landing as provincial silver medalists.
Well done to all these amazing athletes and students who have accomplished these achievements! ACHS will miss all our graduates and hope they will continue to inspire others through sports
Chantal Chabot Memorial Award
Charlize Hillmer Grade 9 student
Sr Male and Female Athlete of the Year: Grayson Ciocia and Kayley Beaubien.
Jr Male and Female Athlete of the Year: Eric Helland and Ava Coghill.
Assiniboia Times, Assiniboia Saskatchewan -- June
Extra-curricular programs would not be possible without volunteerism. Some of the coaches in Assiniboia have hit some major milestones for years of service coaching, and are also recipients of South Central District Service Awards.
25 years coaching awards - Jeff Feeley, received SCDS award (presented by Al Kessler); and Mrs. Knudsen (presented by Matthew Lothian)
Berner Five
Mike Topola (presented by Matthew Lothian)
Editorial & Opinions
ARE SHOWERS BETTER THAN BATHS
Sherri Solomko/Freelance Reporter
In my high school years, at ACHS, I was on the debate team. I can hear you all laughing already. But, really, we were a big deal! We were on CFQC TV, we were one point away from winning a trip to the Yukon for a national championship, we won trophies and our coach was convinced we would all good lawyers.
We were assigned a topic and we had to research, and practise the pros and cons of the topic because when we attended a debate we only found out which side we would be debating once we were there. This research was long before Google and the internet and it involved hours of thought, the library resource material and some planning with a little pizzazz added in group work. One of the most fun topics I can recall was “what is better? Showers or baths?” The funny thing was is I was reminded that this still might be a deal when this uncommon yet contested topic came up in casual conversation at a coffee table one day.
As an ambitious, never wrong teenager, it was easy to formulate answers that sounded intuitive and highly intelligent such as the vertigo some people experience, causing nausea, when watching the water drain in tornado like form out of the tub, therefore making showers a much more viable option.
Of course the recent conversation had revolved much more about water conversation and energy saving than all of the pros and cons that could be, whether real or created, that we came up with in high school.
Some of today’s homes don’t even have bathtubs any more as the residents much prefer a long, luxurious shower with rainfall or massaging showerheads. Some homes have jet tubs, massage tubs, two person Jacuzzi tubs or a big ole hot tub on their deck.
If there are young kids in the home, tubs are a must have as this is one of the best play spaces for kids while cleaning off the day’s dirt.
They love to splash, float toys, blow bubbles and all of the other free fun that comes with a nightly bath; as well as the relaxing, readyfor-bed, qualities it contains. There aren’t many moms I know who don’t enjoy a peaceful, quite, interruption free, aromatherapy filled, hot soak in a bath after a long day.
Guys, they prefer a daily or twice daily quick shower to scrub off the sweat and freshen up for work or an evening out. A shower is quick, easy and convenient.
Before running water became mainstay in homes, I can recall elderly relatives tell of the old tin tub that got filled up with near boiling water that dad bathed in first and it continued on down the line to the youngest of the house getting the last of now barely warm bathwater that coined the phrase “don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.” That generation was all about conservation!
While I can’t say the practises in your house I do know from some research that a bathtub is rarely filled partially to take a bath. A low flow showerhead uses about 2 gallons a minute, or 20 gallons for a 10 minute shower. A standard showerhead uses 2.5 gallons a minute or 25 gallons in a 10 minute shower. This appears to show that showers save water as long as you don’t go past 10 minutes. However bathing in a hot tub of Epsom salts, baking soda with a splash of lavender is said to perform detoxing that our bodies need frequently. Arthritis sufferers swear by hot baths for relief, as do those who are suffering the effects of a strenuous workout or physical sport.
You might have read this piece and decided that there went 10 minutes of your life you’ll never get back! Or, you may have read it and chuckled knowing that this conversation has come up a time or two in a gathering you were a part of. This piece may have showered you with knowledge or bathed you in BS. Either way, it was a distraction both the writer and the reader may have been ready for.
Summer has officially arrived although spring seems to want to hang on a little longer this year. The rain has been welcome but not so much the cool temperatures, the stiff winds and dreary skies. We long for sunny skies and warm days to enjoy the outdoors – gardening and hiking perhaps.
There are times in life that we are like spring – we want to hang on and not let go when the time has come. Sometimes we hang on to relationships that may no longer be working, we hang on to jobs that aren’t satisfying, and we hold on to things whether for sentimental reasons or for feelings of security. Our lives can become crowded and messy when we hold on too long.
Fortunately, there are some things we can hold tight to throughout our lives –our relationships with God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. There are benefits to having faith in God, backed up by scripture. Seven benefits given on one website are inner peace, hope in times of adversity, strength in weakness, purpose and meaning, guidance in decision-making, joy and gratitude, and lastly community and support. These are compelling reasons for holding onto our faith – in times of joy and wonder as well as times of stress, grief and indecision. Being in a community with faithful people can help us to achieve these many benefits – lifelong benefits. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13.
Assiniboia students attend workshop with Regina artist
makes them.
Students from Assiniboia Seventh Avenue School and Assiniboia Elementary School enjoyed workshops with Regina artist Elaine McArthur at the Shurniak Art Gallery on June 7.
Ms McArthur was in town to highlight her “dancing buddies,” dolls that are in the exhibition “Labours of Love, Under Lamplight,” currently on view at the Gallery.
In addition to talking about the dolls, Ms McArthur read from her selfpublished picture book Elizabeth Dances Powwow, and showed the students the regalia that she wears when she dances at pow-wows in the summer.
The students then had a chance to create dolls wearing regalia. At the
end of the visit they participated in a scavenger hunt based on details of the items in the exhibit.
“The class really enjoyed learning about the regalia and creating their own,” said Grade 3-4 teacher Hanna Hansen.
Jared Williams, Gallery Operations and Collections Manager, was enthusiastic about the class visits. “This is what it’s all about,’ he said, “welcoming the children into the Gallery and making them feel comfortable so that they see the Gallery as an important and integral part of their lives.”
Ms McArthur also sat down with some of the Gallery’s volunteers and shared with them the inspiration for the dancing buddy dolls and how she
Labours of Love exhibit now on display
The Shurniak Art Gallery and Assiniboia Arts Council is now showcasing the art exhibit: Labours of Love, Under Lamplight.
Labours of Love, Under Lamplight featured art from Indigenous artists in Saskatchewan, showcasing a diverse array of experiences and interpretations of Indigenous Art.
The exhibition celebrates the various practices in Indigenous art, ranging from contemporary aesthetics and ma -
terials to those rooted in familial traditions.
In today’s fast-paced world, the dedication and labour of love invested in art can be easily overlooked. The concept of “Labour of love” in art emphasizes the extensive labour involved in the creation process, often infused with familial stories, teachings, and practices passed down through generations.
These expressions of love for the practice and culture are condensed into
the fi nal artworks, representing hours of devotion and labour.
They invite viewers to turn the lamplight on, consider the time and knowledge behind each piece as the artists skillfully worked with familiar and lesser-known materials, revived from their cultural heritage or passed down through mentorship within the art community.
For many Indigenous artists, their love for their culture serves as a signifi
cant motivation in their artistic journey, enriching the contemporary art scene with an inherent connection to their roots. This exhibition is curated by Holly Aubichon from recent acquisitions to the SK Arts Permanent collection and features the following artists: Stacey Fayant, Marcy Friesen, Sally Milne, Brandon Roy, Cherelle Williams, Audra Blais-Boulianne, Maureen Ledoux, Russel Iron, Elaine McArthur, and Jordy Ironstar.
The Prince of Wales Culturaland Recreation Centre and the Olympia Theatre would like to send abig ThankYou out to the Golden South Wind Community Benefit Fund andthe RM of Lake of theRivers for the generous financial support in getting the new Olympia Theatre sign on the POW Centre. Without your generosity this project would not have been possible.
“Labours of Love, Under Lamplight” is on view until June 21 at the Shurniak Art Gallery, now open Sundays 12 – 4pm. The exhibition is sponsored by OSAC, Sask Lotteries, Sask Culture, Sask Arts, the Government of Canada, the Shurniak Art Gallery and the Assiniboia and District Arts Council. 24065GE0
Regina artist Elaine McArthur
E. Bourassa and Son’s have celebrated a milestone achievement with 100 years in business. In honour of this milestone they gave away $110K to different business or committees that could apply for part of the bounty. There were 91 entries received. That was narrowed down to 18 lucky winners who received a portion of the monies. Bengough Swimming pool submitted a YouTube video showing why they needed their help and were awarded $7500 to go toward their new pool plans. This storm crossed a very large area leaving its mark on many towns in its path. Steve Mazer of the Bengough Pool Steering Committee received the cheque fron E.Bourassa & Sons.
The Ladies Night golfing started for the season May 29 with every Wednesday night open to the ladies. This year is organized by Laurie Hawkins.
Town Council Meeting - June 11
The Town of Assiniboia Council gathered for a meeting on June 11.
The meeting was called to order. Attending at the Council table were:
Councillors: Robert Ellert, Patrick Grondin, Graham Harvey, Peter Kordus, Renee Clermont; CAO Clint Mauthe; Kerri Martin; and Mayor Sharon Schauenberg.
Public Acknowledgements was given to Assiniboia Times and Stephanie VanDeSype.
The agenda was accepted and adopted as presented. Ellert/Grondin
Minutes of last council meeting of May 14 accepted and adopted as read. Kordus/Grondin.
Read were the minutes of Public Works Committee of March 4, the minutes of Recreation and Wellness of April 2, the minutes of Planning and Development of April 3, the minutes of Finance and Admin of May 1, the minutes of Assiniboia and District Museum of April 17, the minutes of Prince of Wales of April 11
All minutes were ap -
proved and adopted as read, Grondin/ Ellert.
It was proclaimed the June will be Parks and Recreation month in the Town of Assiniboia, by Mayor Schauenberg.
It was proclaimed that the Better Together barbecues will commence July 2 marking the fourth year of this. The first one will be hosted be the Town of Assiniboia. Ellert/Harvey.
Correspondence
Council received correspondence from: the Ombudsman Saskatchewan Annual Report, the 2024-25 infiNET build Assiniboia, a STARS donation thank you, and E,Bourassa and Sons 100 year celebration invitation.
All correspondence accepted and adopted as read. Clermont/Harvey.
CAO Clint Mauthe provides report
Accepted and adopted as presented. Three more water mains will be fixed this summer. Reports the swimming pool water temp has been raised by three degrees to 84 degrees for user comfort.
Work on the splash park is being done to get it up and operational once again this summer
List of paid accounts accepted as presented. Harvey/Grondin
New Business: Bylaw 02/24 to Establish a mill rate for 2024 given third and final read. Harvey/Kordus. Request for decision- new floor sweeper requested for the Southland Coop Centre was approved. Ellert/Grondin. Ball diamond storage shed request approved Kordus/Ellert Funded by donation from Brew Crew.
Polka Fest request for funding, approved $1000 Harvey/Ellert.
Southland Coop Centre Reserve account set up, approved. Deficit for Centre funds will move to an account with access needed to be approved by council. Grondin/Harvey.
Councillor presentations given as to meetings or events attended since last meeting, Meeting adjourned. Next meeting scheduled for June 25.
Winners of the 50/50 draw for the Spring Fever Lotto were
the Civic Improvement Association.
BuildingPermits
Contractor Business Licenses
Do youhave anyBuildingProjectsonthe go this buildingseason? Thefollowingisalistofprojectsthatrequire adevelopment/buildingpermit: New construction |Garages,carports,and boat houses |Decks and platforms more than 300mm(12”)aboveground level|RTM, modular and manufacturedhomes | Renovations and alterations affecting structural membersorsafetyfeatures (e.g bedroom windows) |Additions to existing buildings |Basementdevelopment |Secondary suites |Accessory buildings greater than 10 m² |Fireplaces,wood stoves and heaters| Retaining walls that couldaffect astructure or arenear aproperty |Foundationrepairs or replacements| Roof replacements| Solarpanelsthatare roof mount |Change to the use of thebuilding| Temporarybuildings or structures |Relocatinganexistingbuilding| Remedyinganunsafecondition or fireinspection order |Demolishing abuilding Development/BuildingPermits arenot typically requiredfor: Driveways, sidewalks, and parkinglots| Replacement of materialslikeshingles or siding, orcosmeticupgrades not affectingstructuralmembers or safety features |Accessory buildings less than 10 m² (e.g.gardensheds or tool sheds); but maximumofone per lot. Visithttps://www.assiniboia.net/town_office/building_permits.html formoreinformation or call(306) 642-5003 to askabout permits andthe requiredpaperwork
Do youhave acontractor doing renovations,repairs or anyworkthis spring/summer?Pleaseask your contractorsifthey havea valid Business licensefor theTownofAssiniboia.2024 BusinessLicenses arevalid from April 1, 2024 to March31, 2025. Contractorswho do not obtaina business license, will leavetheircustomerwiththe cost of thelicense.
Ifyou havequestions regarding avalid businesslicense, pleasecallthe TownOfficeat(306) 642-3382 or checkour businessdirectory at https:// www.assiniboia.net/business_ec_dev/business_directory.html
→ COUNCILMEETING: Held in Council Chambersinthe Asaskan Complex,131 3rdAve West.The nextcouncil meetingwill be Tuesday,June 25, 2024 &Tuesday,July9,2024 at 6:30 p.m.
Terry and Gayle Rein, from Indian Head, Sask. The cheque was presented by Curtis Nelson, President of
July 2nd- Town of Assiniboia
July 9th- Nelson GM
July 16th- E.Bourassa & Sons
July 23rd- Young’s Equipment
July 30th- Assiniboia Ministerial
August 6th-Assiniboia Family Foods
August 13th- Bumper to Bumper
August 20th-Southland Co-op ** Taco in a Bag** 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Aquatic Centre Parking lot
$5 for burger or hot dog, chips and a drink. All proceeds go to Recreation & Community Wellness programming
Starting at The Red Appleparkinglot, heading South up CentreStreet, West on Dominion. South on 1St.W. Continue East on Assiniboia Ave. (past Prairie Villa). North on Leeville St. West on 6th AveE,South on 4thSt. E. Back to Assiniboia Aveover to 1 St.W East on DominionRdand North on CentreSt. Ending at The Red Apple. ASSINIBOIA
Congratulations Class of 2024! CongratulationsClass
MayyourCapsfly as high as your dreams
On behalf of Mayor, Council& Staff, we extend warm Congratulationstothe Graduating Classof2024.
Congratula tionsC la ss of 2024!
Youshould be proudofyour hard work and dedication. Ik nowyou willcontinue to makeyour family, friendsand provinceproud
Ourgovernmentprovides anumberofsupportsfor students andgraduates including the GradateRetention Program, whichprovides up to $20,000 in tax credits to post-secondary studentswho stay and work in Sask atchewan af ter
Coronach School Coronach School
Graduation 2024
Gravelbourg ,Lafleche, Mossbank
Savannah Anderson
HaydenWrolson
Andrew Bleau Cheyanne Heinrichs
Photo courtesy of Jill Jenkins
KINCAID SCHOOL Graduation ad on 2024
Photos Cour tesy Of Kelly Reid Ward.
Auni Araynna
Arieana Blondeau
Annalease Empey
Jorja Whereatt
Photos courtesy of Melinda Masse Photography
Jake Starke JetWilliams
“The
Photo's courtesy of Melinda Masse
Deklen Hanson
Kade Collins
Will Rieder
Colby Sayers
Pat Williamson
With heavy hear ts, we announce the passing of Gail Pat Williamson (née McBain) of Kincaid, SK, who left us peacefully on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at the age of 80 years old Pat was bor n on March 17, 1944, at the Kincaid Communit y Hospital and spent her ear ly years in Glen Bain, Saskatchewan After graduating in 1962, she began her career at the TD Bank in Hodgeville In 1963, Pat and her mother moved to Kincaid, where she embar ked on a long and dedicated career, ser ving as Secretar y / Treasurer at the Kincaid Union Hospital from 1971 until 1994 On March 25, 1967, Pat marr ied John Williamson Together, they nur tured their far m in Kincaid John s passing on September 1, 1990, left a void in Pat s life, but she persevered with strength and grace, continuing to manage the far m She was especially grateful to the Br isebois family for their help over the years Pat par ticular ly looked forward to Eugene picking her up in her father-in-law s Ford pickup tr uck and ventur ing out to the field for a r ide in the combine In 1993 Pat found new happiness with Rod Graham Rod and his three daughters Jennifer Tobi and Dianna became her forever family in 1994 filling her life with love and joy Pat and Rod shared a home filled with laughter war mth and cher ished memor ies Pat's love for life was evident in ever ything she did A talented seamstress she sewed her own clothes and crafted many skating costumes for the gir ls and the communit y She cher ished her flowers, both indoors and out, and had a special fondness for camping, par ticular ly in Cypress Hills There, she found great joy in feeding the squirrels and watching the deer and moose pass by Her favour ite saying upon enter ing the par k, "Leave the troubles at the gate," exemplified her approach to life Her daughters and grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she attended all their school activities, extracurr icular events, graduations, and universit y convocations She revelled in their accomplishments Many fond memor ies were made playing r ummy, 31, and doing puzzles together Pat found happiness in simple pleasures: a dr ive around town in the evening with Rod, enjoying coffee with fr iends at the 50 Club, the hotel, or on the picnic bench outside after its closing Pat's humilit y, kindness, and generosit y touched ever yone she met She was always thinking of others and willing to offer a helping hand Pat was a beloved member of the communit y, known for her graciousness, and her unwaver ing spir it She will be dear ly missed Pat is sur vived by her loving family: her spouse Rod Graham; her daughters Jennifer Achter (Jason Switzer), Tobi Graham (Andrew Kwok), and Dianna (Cameron) Juhnke; and her grandchildren Talon, Kalleigh, Ellianna, Finnleigh and grand kitt y Bobbi She also leaves to mour n, her sister-in-law Patsy Malask y, her sisterand-brother-in-law Bessie and Harold Romness and their family Pat was predeceased by her husband John Williamson (1990); her parents Stewar t and Vera McBain; aunt Mabel (George) Gucker, uncle Hugh McBain; parents-in-law Jack and Lily Williamson; her cousins Hugh Gucker Donna and Ken Reeson; and her family kitt y Tigger
A Graveside Funeral Ser vice in remembrance of Pat will be held at Kincaid Cemeter y on July 6 2024 at 2:00 pm Lunch and fellowship will follow at the Kincaid Legion Hall Memor ial donations in Pat’s memor y may be given to the Kincaid & Distr ict Health Centre Board Box 11 Kincaid SK S0H 2J0
Loretta Blackwell
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Loretta Ann Blackwell of Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, who passed away at her home on Tuesday May 28 2024 at the age of 76 years
Loretta was bor n on March 16, 1948, as the youngest and only daughter of Lloyd and Alta (Halverson) Blackwell
She was the baby sister of three older brothers: Bill, Allen, and Grant Loretta grew up on the family far m and attended school in Verwood completing her high school education in Assiniboia
She fur thered her studies in Saskatoon at the Universit y of Saskatchewan, where she studied business Loretta moved to Calgar y and wor ked within the oil industr y, focusing on accounting, budgeting, and computer systems, for a number of years before retur ning to Assiniboia Loretta was the family histor ian, known for her love of her immediate and extended family She maintained contact with many of her cousins stretching as far as Norway and Califor nia Her intelligence and tech-savviness par ticular ly with DOS were well recognized She meticulously kept detailed records of family bir ths and deaths long before the introduction of online ancestr y com
Her Lutheran faith was strong, and she enjoyed staying updated with the latest happenings on the far m, especially dur ing seeding, har vest, and calving seasons Loretta also had a passion for knitting and baking cookies, which she loved to share with others
Loretta is sur vived by her brothers Bill Allen and Grant (Rober ta) Blackwell; nephews and nieces Brent (Cher i) Wade (Gaileen) Coralee (André) Debbie Clint Kar la (Troy) Tanya Shauna (Paul), and Tyler
She was predeceased by her parents, Lloyd (2012) and Alta (2002) Blackwell, and her sisters-in-law, Carol (2019) and Elaine (2017) Blackwell A funeral ser vice was held on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 2:00 P M at Piché Hawkins Grondin Funeral Chapel in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan Inter ment followed at Mount Hope Cemeter y in Assiniboia
Memor ial donations in Loretta s memor y can be given to the Messiah Lutheran Church Box 536 Assiniboia Saskatchewan S0H 0B0
Loretta's memor y will forever be cher ished by her family and all who knew her May she rest in peace
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Celebration of Jerr y s life was held Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 2:00 pm in Ross Funeral Chapel Assiniboia SK Donations in memor y of Jerr y may be made to the South Countr y Health Care Foundation for the Emergency Room at the Assiniboia Union Hospital Following the Celebration of Life ever yone was invited to join the family at a fellowship at the Assiniboia 55 Club Fond memor ies and expressions of sympathy for the Walters family may be shared at www rossfuneralser vice com Arrangements entr usted to Ross Funeral Ser vice, Assiniboia, SK 306-6423373 For floral orders please contact Moms Flor ist (Assiniboia) 306-642-4777
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Jerry Walters With great sadness we announce the passing of Jerr y Walters on May 27, 2024 at age 75
Jerr y is sur vived by his wife of 51 years, Lucille (Dumelie); son Br ian and his children Kayla, Devin, and Keira; daughter Connie (Doyle) McMorr is and her children: Samantha & Mitch Taylor –Spencer and Lowen Sydney & Kyle Harden – Elly Theia Reese Trehvan McMorr is and Rhyker McMorr is; sister-in-law Shir ley Walters, numerous nieces and nephews
Jerr y was predeceased by parents Ar t & Julie Walters, siblings: Don (Madeline), Roger Walters, Garr y (Jean), Louise (Ralph) Lachowitzer, Rober t (Dianne), Elaine Johnson, and Carole (Bob) Collinson
Obituaries
St. Victor Biker Boogie celebrates four and a half decades
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Started on the cusp of the 80s, St. Victor Biker Boogie has stood the test of time and its storied history continued on a familiar June weekend in 2024, held in Sylvan Valley Park in St. Victor, marking 45 years for the annual event.
While life and the world has changed a lot since 1979, the opportunity to gather each year for the event remains steadfast.
Chad Rogers, one of the organizers says he has been part of the organizing committee for this event since he has been part of the Southern Independent Rid-
ers for the past ten years.
The event is more than just motorcycle enthusiasts gathering for a weekend in the beautiful St.
Victor Park. It is about the camaraderie, the experience and giving back to their communities and the province.
“We have donated well
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M Bucholtz Administrator
Tender for Water Treatment Plant RoofRepairs
The Town of Coronach is tendering forrepairstothe WaterTreatmentPlantRoof at the Town of Coronach Water Treatment Plant located at SW-11-02-27-W2 (up on topofthe hill by the Coronach Golf Course). The work is to be completedin2024 priortowinter
over $450,000 dollars from the club back to community, charities, STARS, youth camps, reginal park, and breast cancer, cystic fibrosis, multiple charities,” affirmed Rogers.
Rogers said attendance in 2023 was around 300 people with some growth seen in 2024 and more than 350 people in attendance for the 45th anniversary.
Organizers say the event is more about mak -
ing memories with great people, taking part in unique bike games, enjoying live music and generally enjoying the overall experience with long time friends and other motocycle enthusiasts.
One of the highlights each year is the draw for the bike lottery. As with any event organizing and hosting there are some challenges and the group says that they continue to seek a larger attendance
every year as well as gather more volunteers to help run the event.
Social media posts included some who have attended all 45 years of this annual event, while others reported their experience as a first-time attendee
Winners of the 45th anniversary draws were first prize - 2023 Harley Davidson - Renato Eufemia –Saskatoon, and second prize - $1,000 - Sandy Mahon - Regina.
The tender shall include all necessary products,equipment, and tools required to complete theproject.
The contractor is required to provide evidenceofliabilityinsurancetothe Town. The Contractorwill also be responsiblefor providing aclearancefromthe Saskatchewan Worker’sCompensation Board prior tobeingawarded thetender
Please state yourwarranty period inthe tender that will be offered on the repairs All prospectivecontractors aretomeet onsite, at adate/timearrangedbythe Town, and inspect theroof prior to placing atender.Pleasecontact the Town Officetoarrangeaviewing
Please submit atender as one total cost.Atender must be submitted in asealed envelope marked “WTP Roof RepairsTender” and addressed to:TownofCoronach, Box 90,Coronach SKS0H 0Z0. Tenders must be postmarked or droppedoff at theTownOffice by 5:00 pm on July5,2024. Highest, or any tender,not necessarily accepted. Tenders will be opened July9 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Office, 2121st Street East,Coronach,SKS0H0Z0.
Coronach, SK S0H0Z0 Escape the race office@townofcoronach.ca 306 267 2150 townofcoronach.ca
Tender for Drainage
The Town of Coronach is tendering for drainage repairs located at the Coronach District Museum
240 1st Street West, to be completedin2024.
Tender is to include:
•Removal of any existing material, as needed, around windowsprior to install of window wells
• Supply and installfor (3)three window wells on the east side basement windows
• Supply and install to drain the water andslope away from theMuseum buildingand ensurethe slope is apositive grade aroundthe wholebuilding
•Provide all labour,equipment,and aggregate required to complete the sloping
The contractor is requiredtoprovide evidence of liability insurance to theTown. TheContractor will also be responsible for providing aclearancefromthe Saskatchewan Worker’sCompensation Boardprior to being awarded the tender
Please submit all costs above as atotal cost Atender must be submitted in asealed envelope marked “Tender for Drainage” and addressed to: Town of Coronach, Box90, Coronach SK S0H 0Z0. Tenders must be postmarked or dropped offat theTownOffice by 5:00 pm on July 5, 2024. Highest,orany tender,not necessarily accepted. Tenders will be opened July 9, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
atthe Town Office, 212 1st Street East,Coronach, SKS0H0Z0.
Dated this 20th dayofJune 2024
Renea Paridaen, Chief Administrative Officer Town of Coronach
Photos courtesy Chad Rogers
Box90,
Feed & Seed
Photo Dallas Moneo- Twitter
Birdwatching for seniors: a great way to get outdoors
Are you a senior looking for a new hobby that’s both relaxing and rewarding? Birdwatching might just be what you need.
Not only is it a great way to get outside and spend time in nature, but it’s also a fantastic way to spend time with friends and family who share your interests. First, you’ll need a good pair of binoculars and a birding guide. You can find these at most outdoor supply stores or online. Once you have your gear, it’s time to head out into the great outdoors.
One of the best things about birdwatching is that you can do it just about anywhere. Whether you’re in a local park, on a hike or even in your backyard, there
are always birds to be found.
To get the most out of your birdwatching experience, try to go out at dawn or dusk when birds are most active.
As you start to spot different bird species, try to take note of their distinct features such as their size, colour and shape. You can even bring along a notebook and jot down your observations. This will help you identify the different species later and add to the fun of the experience.
Why not give birdwatching a try? You might just discover a new passion that will keep you entertained for years to come.
Knitting, crocheting can improve your health
Do you know that knitting and crocheting is about more than creating beautiful pieces of art? Not only are they great hobbies that can help you unwind and relax, but studies have shown that they can also have a positive impact on your health.
Both knitting and crocheting are known to reduce stress levels. The repetitive motions and focus required in these activities can have a calming effect on the mind and body, like meditation. This makes them a great way to combat anxiety and depression.
Moreover, these activities can also improve your cognitive function. Knitting and crocheting require the use of both hands, which helps improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Following a pattern and keeping track of the stitches can also help to sharpen your memory and concentration.
Knitting and crocheting can also be beneficial for your physical health. The motion of these activities can help to relieve joint pain and stiffness, which is especially beneficial for those with conditions such as arthritis.
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your health, give knitting or crocheting a try.
History of Assiniboia Aquarians swim club spans almost six decades
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
While it is not exactly known how long Assiniboia has had a swim club, multiple responses on a recent social media post indicate that there have been competitive swimmers, known as the Assiniboia Aquarians, dating back to the late 1960s.
Memories were quickly shared from participation in the club on a recent social media post, including the gratitude for well known businessman, Malcolm Fraser, who provided bags of cut oranges for team road trips as well as Don Johnstone from the Assiniboia Creamery who always supplied chocolate milk for swimmers.
James Dahl shared his memory of this renowned Assiniboia swim club on an Assiniboia Facebook page recollecting the Aquarians, “My sister, Leora Dahl, is in the middle row far left. She took the swim club lessons all the way to a relay swim of the English Channel and we swam from Alcatraz to San Francisco together. Quite the foundation that little pool provided” Jaclyn Gibson, current coach, says of this year’s club, “We are lucky to have three coaches this
year, including myself, two for the competitive group and one for our Intro to Speed Swim group that we call “Pups”. On the administrative side, we currently have three members on our executive, but are always looking for more.”
The Aquarians held their first swim meet since pre-Covid times. Gibson said it is a huge undertaking to host a competitive meet so their small club feels accomplished in this
success as it brought over 80 swimmers and their families to town.
The 2024 swim club includes 21 swimmers and three coaches, with the season beginning May first and runs until provincials that occur near the end of July.
“We practice four nights a week for one and a half hours and have a swim meet almost every weekend from late June and July to attend. We travel to meets in other communities with summer
swim clubs like Swift Current, Oxbow, Regina, Estevan, and Weyburn,” added Gibson.
Competitive swim season for Aquarians’ participants includes a summer filled with numerous practises and training sessions, as well as competing at swim meets across the province, showcasing commitment by all of the athletes involved.
As with the Facebook responses to the archived photo that was shared by
Laurie Hysuik, Gibson affirms that the great camaraderie that participants have on the team is one of the highlights. Kids from the age of seven right up to age 17 support and challenge each other in their training and goals, as well as competition.
“Although our club is one of the smaller ones, the majority of our competitive swimmers qualify for the Provincial Swim Meet,” said Gibson, Challenges are similar
to any group in a small town with declining registrations and volunteers. Both are imperative to the continuing the longevity of this almost six-decade old competitive swim club. Gibson acknowledges, “We are really proud to have had two of our swimmers, Radu Bumbac and Hayley Gibson be selected to the South West District swim team at the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games in Lloydminster this July. “
The photo was taken from You Know You Grew Up in Assiniboia Facebook page, provided by Laurie Hysuik