Fabulous Fall Donate and Save
Southland Co-op Centre kicks off season with sold out WHL game
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A full day of activites kicked off the fall season at the Southland Co-op Centre in Assiniboia on Sept. 7.
A tailgate party to watch the Banjo Bowl was accompanied by a beer gardens, Bud’s BBQ food truck, and lawn games.
The outdoor activity led up to the sold-out Western Hockey League preseason
game, held on the ice, featuring the Moose Jaw Warriors and the Regina Pats.
Stephanie VanDeSype, Assiniboia’s Recreation and Wellness Manager said, “We had a sold-out crowd, the facility was full of great energy for the preseason games. Both teams appreciated the crowd, and had a fantastic time playing here.”
“The Pats pulled off the
win. Both teams went upstairs following the game to sign autographs for the fans.”
Hockey wasn’t the only entertainment provided as an inflatable three-legged race took place during the first intermission that had the crowd roaring in laughter at the expense of the eight men dressed as either a dinosaur, chicken, shark or unicorn.
“The crowd had a great night, the compliments were many on our facility, our ice, the food, drinks and service received.”
VanDeSype said they are thankful Moose Jaw Warriors chose Assiniboia and the Southland Co-op Centre to host a preseason game and they are hopeful the team considers doing this again to kick off the 2025-2026 season.
Province raises awareness of Living Organ Donation
A living donation occurs when someone gives either a kidney or a part of their liver to a patient with end-stage kidney or liver disease, significantly improving survival rates for those suffering from organ failure. LDW aims to improve access to living kidney and liver donations while inspiring those currently waiting for a transplant, and everyone who cares about them, to explore the living organ donation option.
“Living organ donors are true heroes, giving a second chance at life to those in need,” Health Minister Everett Hindley said. “Their selfless acts of kindness inspire us all and remind us of the incredible difference one person can make. We encourage eligible Saskatchewan residents to learn more about living organ donation and consider registering as donors. By working together, we can make a significant impact and ensure that more individuals receive the life-saving organ transplants they need.”
A living kidney or liver donor could be a spouse, family member, friend, coworker or stranger. Donors must be older than 16 for liver donation and older
than 18 for kidney donation. They must also have a healthy weight for their height, be in good health without diabetes, cancer, kidney, or heart disease and be willing to freely donate.
Kidney donors who come forward for a specific recipient and are not a match may still be able to help that recipient through the National Kidney Paired Donation Program.
Living organ donors, recipients and SHA physicians standing side-byside in a group shot
Further to this, in early 2024, Saskatchewan launched a new segment in the national ‘Great Actions
Leave a Mark’ (GALAM) campaign to raise awareness and showcase living organ donors, recipients, and physicians from Saskatchewan. View their personal stories at www. saskatchewan.ca/residents/ health/accessing-healthcare-services/organ-andtissue-donor-registry/ personal-stories/great-actions-leave-a-mark.
The Sask. Organ and Tissue Donor registry was launched in September 2020 and to date, over 30,000 eligible Saskatchewan residents have registered their intent to donate their organs and/or tissues.
Government invests In Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods
The Government of Saskatchewan recently announced $17.1 million in new funding for a multiministry approach to safe neighborhoods by adding more police officers, training new officers, and introducing new enforcement tools, while working to ensure social supports are in place and accessible.
“Ensuring the safety and security of communities and neighbourhoods across Saskatchewan is a priority for our government,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety
Box 90, Coronach, SK S0H0Z0
Minister Paul Merriman said. “We are investing in police services, the Police College, and more officers for Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods, raising policing levels across the province and improving the safety and wellbeing of all Saskatchewan residents, including everyone in the Moose Jaw area.”
New investments include: $11.9 million for about 100 new municipal police officers; $2.7 million to double the number of Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN)
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Town of Coronach
Municipal Election
Public notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of :
Mayor: Town of Coronach -and-
Councillor: Town of Coronach
Number to be Elected: six (6)
will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October, 2024, from 9:00a.m. to 4:00p.m., at the Coronach Town Office, 212 1st Street East, and during regular office hours on September 18, 2024 to October 8, 2024 at the Coronach Town Office, 212 1st Street East.
Nominations forms and Public Disclosure Statements may be obtained at the Town of Coronach Town Office, 212 1st Street East, Coronach, at the Town of Coronach Website, or on the Town of Coronach Facebook page.
Dated this 9th day of September, 2024
Renea Paridaen, Returning Officer
officers from 14 to 28; and $2.5 million for the Saskatchewan Police College over the next three years.
The City of Moose Jaw will receive a total of $952,000 to hire eight new Moose Jaw Police Service officers.
“As we continue to work together to keep our communities safer, more harmonious, and more inclusive, the additional police positions will allow us not only to work more effectively with those in crisis, but to also increase our presence in public areas and bring a greater focus to child exploitation and serious crime prevention, detection and response,” Moose Jaw Chief of Police Rick Bourassa said. The Government of Saskatchewan will also undertake substantial changes within the justice system to empower police and other enforcement officers and promote the overall safety of business owners and citizens.
The additional public safety initiatives announced build upon other initiatives across government, including the Complex Needs Emergency Shelters (CNES) in Saskatoon and Regina.
The Regina CNES opened on July 30 and Saskatoon opened on August 6 of this year.
Rebels camp was held in Assiniboia on August 7 to kick off another great year of hockey. Guest speaker Cal Filsen, scout for the Chicago Blackhawks gave encouraging words to the players. Of special note, Filsen is originally from Lafleche.
Gravelbourg growing project harvested for Foodgrains Bank
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Teamwork, stewardship, commitment and generosity are just some of the words to describe those who have committed to the Wiwa Growing Project, near Gravelbourg.
Operating since 2003 as a local community growing project, each year’s harvest is dedicated the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. For 11 years, the quarter being farmed was generously donated by the Brown family.
The organization’s Facebook page outlined that this particular growing project has contributed more than $900,000 to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Organizers say that this success story does not happen without amazing volunteers and donors who support this annual project.
While the 2024 harvest was somewhat disappointing, needing only one grain cart for the work, Stephe Ohlmann, tells the Assiniboia Times and SASKTODAY.ca, “This year we planted Canola yielding approximately 13bushels per acre. The board will now work on marketing the canola and crop planning for next years crop.”
Harvesting day was August 30 and people were
welcome to come and enjoy the experience. A pizza lunch followed the work, thanks to community donor, Innovation Credit Union.
Ohl Mann acknowledges that many contributors are key factors in their project and include not only Agricultural businesses but Ag families.
“This year we had Preffontaine Ag Ventures, MRB Farms, Nichol Family Farms, Avery
Allen, Bell Family Farms, Ohlmann Acres help with field work. Inputs donated by BASF, Palliser Plains CO-OP, Pioneer CO-OP, Crop Watch 360, Hawks Agro in Gravelbourg and Nutrien Ag Solutions in Gravelbourg.”
Residents can follow the Wiwa Growing Project and Saskatchewan Foodgrains Bank on Facebook for all the latest news and updates.
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Reeve: Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40
Councillor: Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40
Division No. 1
Councillor: Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40
Division No. 3
Councillor: Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40
Division No. 5
Will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40 office located at 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan, And during regular business hours from September 13th, 2024 to October 8th, 2024 at the Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40 office located at 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan. Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location: Rural Municipality of Bengough No. 40 Office 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan
Dated this 13th day of September 2024. Lara Hazen (Returning Officer)
The Wiwa Growing Project, was recently completed near Gravelbourg, which contributes harvest grains to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Editorial & Opinions
Sabrina Kraft skraft@glaciermedia.ca
The rising cost of living continues to be a concern for many Saskatchewan families. Affordability issues have made an impact on many household budgets, and many will continue to scrimp and save even with inflation rates slightly decreasing.
I am sure that candidates vying for MLA seats in the October 28th provincial election will be asked how they can address the increased cost of living at the provincial level. The federal election is not that far off either, as it is set for October 20, 2025, unless the minority Liberal government faces a non-confidence vote and is forced to call the election earlier.
Many Canadians are still struggling, and feel that their wage increases have not been enough to make an impact when faced with the cost of living increases. A recent poll also showed that 24 per cent of Canadians have felt stress, due to their financial situation.
Saskatchewan’s minimum wage will rise to $15 an hour on October 1, which is still far behind the current living wage minimum income (rated at $17.90 per hour in Regina, and $18.95 per hour in Saskatoon). When compared to other provinces, Saskatchewan and Alberta are tied for the lowest minimum hour rate.
An increase to the minimum wage does have an impact, both on the positive and negative side. For many business owners grappling with their own
increasing costs due to inflation to operate their day-to-day business, margins are already slim, and then they have to pay the increased minimum wage.
It sometimes feels like a never-ending struggle too, as once the minimum wage increases, it does end up causing an impact to the ballooning costs of living. For anyone who has taken an economics class, when you need to pay more for your workers, that cost has to come from somewhere, and often you raise your prices. Thus, the cycle continues where wage increases never seem enough to cover the cost of living.
Cutting expenses is often the best way to address growing costs, but sometimes it is not the best way to maintain a balance. When a family is spending less at local businesses, it results in less income for the business owner, which means it is harder for them to create new jobs, or maintain a minimum wage.
There is no easy solution either. The job market continues to be stagnant with many businesses only hiring when they absolutely need an employee, and very few new positions being created. While the unemployment rate in Saskatchewan is the third lowest among the Canadian provinces, one also has to remember that this is based of the size of our labour force which is also lower than other provinces.
Achieving an actual living wage for employees seems an impossible task. Government officials, stakeholders and businesses need to work together to find a better balance, so that the living wage is
RISING COST OF LIVING AN ISSUE
more achievable, without causing sky-rocketing inflation to the community.
At the end of things, increased wages can increase morale for low-income workers, and might even encourage them to put more interest and effort into their work. An increased wage should also translate into increased employee retention and recruitment into the business.
There are times when people take any job, just to have an income. It would be better for people to love the job they are doing, and not just be there for the money (and yes, I realize I am looking through rose-coloured glasses with this expectation). It would also be nice to not have to cut back on groceries and spending at local businesses, and support them with the money that was made.
The hard truth is that for many in our community, especially those with fixed expenses or those who are carrying debt, they will have to continue to find ways to cut from their budgets. People will continue to decide on ‘stay-cations’, because an actual vacation is a cost they can not afford. More and more of us will only buy what we absolutely need, and there will be less luxury spending.
Remember every dollar spent in your local economy supports your friends, family and your neighbours. Find time to support markets and homebased entrepreneurs, who might be depending on sales to help their own budget. Supporting local businesses and their employees is always important. Let us all do our part to shop local.
Pastor Bob Scott, Assiniboia Alliance Church ‘New Beginnings’
Most of us are used to celebrating new beginnings each year on the first day of January. But many will agree that, as summer draws to a close and we return from our relaxed schedules, there is a sense of new beginnings.
Some return to school. Many adults get back to work after a vacation. Community activities start up. In our churches, programs resume and new meetings begin. We are refreshed and ready to dive in to things again.
But there are times when we may look back and see that we have fallen short in what is expected of us or what we have expected of ourselves. In the spiritual realm, there are an unfortunate number of folks who recognize their failures and begin to think that all is lost in their rela-
tionship with God and that all chance of any kind of a new start has been lost. But God grants new beginnings, too. The whole message of the Gospel is that He loved His Creation so much that He sent us a Saviour to pay the penalty for our transgressions. And we are told that He can grant us abundant life here and now. All that is asked is that we put our trust in Jesus and, having recognized and resolved to turn from those things that have broken fellowship with Him, we confess it before Him.
The Apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV). Be encouraged. You can make a brand new start today. Get in touch with one of our local congregations. Plan to attend a church this Sunday. It can be a whole fresh start. Happy new you.
Harvest safety also includes driving on Saskatchewan highways
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Michaela Solomon, Communications SGI, says that in the last five years, encompassing 2019-2023, there have been an average of 107 traffic collisions, involving farm equipment, resulting in 27 injuries, and sadly three fatalities.
Thankfully in the statistics provided by SGI, it was noted that there were not any collisions involving farm equipment reported in Assiniboia, in that fiveyear time span.
Major contributing factors to these accidents included failure to yield to the right of way, improper turning and improper passing or lane usage.
SGi outlines some things to keep in mind when driving around farm equipment:
Pass only when it’s safe to do so. Treat farm machinery like you would any slow-moving traffic and remember to be patient.
Chances are that the farmer is only going to be on the road long enough to move that equipment from one field to another.
In addition to being slow-moving, farm machinery can be deceptively wide and long. If you do decide to pass them on the highway, give yourself plenty of space to do so.
You’re more likely to encounter farm equipment
on rural roads – and those roads are narrower, so drivers have less space to maneuver around them – so keep that in mind and stay extra alert whenever you leave the pavement and hit the gravel.
Make sure the farmer can see you, too. The operator of that equipment is dealing with blind spots, so don’t follow too close behind them and be sure not to merge in front of them too closely.
Anticipate where the farmer might be going. The machinery may not allow the operator to signal their intentions, so drivers will want to be sure they are not about to turn left into a field before pulling alongside to pass.
For farmers, there are rules dictating how, where and when farm equipment can be transported on certain designated highways.
Equipment that travels slower than 40 km/h, must be equipped with a rear/ center slow-moving-vehicle sign, and machinery that extends more than 1.2 meters should be equipped with reflective devices to alert drivers. For more details, please consult this fact sheet from the Government of Saskatchewan.
To say that even if a collision doesn’t result in anyone getting hurt or losing their life, it could severely impact someone’s liveli -
TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF STONEHENGE NO. 73
PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 12th day of November, 2024, an interest based on a tax lien will be be registered against the land.
Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.
hood. No one wants to deal with a collision damaging a crucial piece of equipment when it’s most needed. As drivers, we can help them out by giving them a bit of space and plenty of courtesy whenever we see them on the road.
“Farm machinery is slow moving so you’ll find that you come up on it very quickly at highway speeds, so start slowing down as soon as you see it. You’re more likely to see farm machinery on grid roads, which are narrower and offer drivers less space to pass,” adds SGI.
The key to everyone’s safety is patience. A popu-
lar fact circulated on social media, and found on several American Ag sites states, “Following equipment at 20 miles per hour for two miles may seem like a lifetime, but it takes only six minutes of your time, which is about the same as waiting for two stoplights.”
Crop report
Harvest has progressed quickly throughout most of the province over the past week. Currently, 42 per cent of the 2024 crop has been harvested, which is up from the 25 per cent reported last week. This is ahead of the five-year average of 34 per cent and the 10-year average of 31 per
cent. Producers are hopeful for favourable weather to further advance harvest operations throughout the province in the coming weeks
The southwest region continues to lead harvest operations with 73 per cent of this year’s crop harvested. The southeast region has 47 per cent of the crop in the bin, followed by the east-central region at 38 per cent and the west-central region at 31 per cent. The northeast currently has 22 per cent harvested and the northwest region sits at 19 per cent harvested.
Winter cereals are nearing completion with 94 per
cent of fall rye and 93 per cent of winter wheat harvested. Pulse crops have also substantially increased in harvest completion with 92 per cent of lentils and 90 per cent of field peas harvested. Of the cereal crops, durum is the furthest ahead in harvest progress at 63 per cent, followed by barley at 52 per cent and oats at 32 per cent. Spring wheat currently sits at 28 per cent harvested across the province and canary seed sits at 19 per cent. Mustard is the furthest advanced at 63 per cent harvested for oilseed crops, followed by canola at 16 per cent and flax at eight per cent.
Sept 5th Thursday 9:30am
Sept 26th Thursday 9:30am
YEARLING/CALVES
Oct 5th Saturday 9:30am
ALL BREED FEAT ANGUS
Oct 10th Thursday 9:30am
ALL BREED FEAT. ANGUS
Oct 12th Saturday 9:30am BLACK/RED
Oct 24th Thursday 9:30am ALL BREED FEAT. CHAROLAIS
Oct 26th Saturday 9:30am BLACK/RED
Oct 31st Thursday 9:30am ALL BREED FEAT. CHAR / GELBVIEH
Nov 2nd Saturday 9:30am RANCH CALVES
Nov 7th Thursday 9:30am
ALL BREED FEAT. SIMMENTAL
Dated this 13th day of September, 2024. Tammy Franks, Treasurer
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Town of Willow Bunch
Public Notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Mayor & Councillor [number to be elected 4 (four)]
Will be received by the undersigned at the Willow Bunch Municipal Office (16 Edouard Beaupre St.) during normal office hours until Wednesday, October 9th, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
Nomination forms may be obtained from the municipal office. All nomination forms must be submitted with a completed public disclosure statement as per Section 67(6)(d) of the Local Government Elections Act, 2015.
Nomination forms may be obtained at: Willow Bunch Municipal Office
Dated this 13th day of September 2024
Sharleine Eger Retur ning Officer
Oct 17th Thursday 9:30am ALL BREED
Oct 19th Saturday 9:30am
Nov 9th Saturday 9:30am BLACK/RED
Nov 14th Thursday 9:30am
ALL BREED FEAT. CHAROLAIS Nov 16th Saturday 9:30am BLACK/RED Nov 21st Thursday 9:30am ALL BREED Nov
The school opened last week on September 3 and the SRC was hard at work before the school started, planning the opening week spirit days and sprucing up the school with decorations. Spirits Days includSocks, Crocs and Birkenstocks on Sept. 4, neon day on Sept. 5, and
the jersey day on Sept. 6 in support of the Rockets football home game that night. On Sept. 6, they also handed out ice cream sandwiches for students to end the week off. The SRC had a PJ Day on Sept. 12th when there will be the annual pancake breakfast ready for students.
ACHS continues to prepare staff and students for emergency procedures
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Long gone are the days the schools only worked on practising fire drills occasionally. The world has changed resulting in more scenarios being addressed and rehearsed in case the situation arise.
Assiniboia Composite High School prepares staff and students for many kinds of traumatic events.
In light of the recent in-
cident at a Saskatoon high school, we asked ACHS principal, Brent Chadwick, about safety policies and he told the Assiniboia Times, “Every year we go through the procedures with students in regards to such issues of a traumatic event. ACHS provides education and practice for issues like fire/explosion / gas leak etc. as well lockdown procedures for unwanted/aggressive people
in the building. “
Principal Chadwick affirms that these practises are undertaken in both semesters as students are in different classes and with different teachers.
“We work in conjunction with the RCMP to ensure our procedures are inclusive for the many different incidents that may happen.”
Chadwick also acknowledges that there is policy
around having a plan and practicing the plans every year. If something needed to change there would be committee created to explore the change that is needed and how it would fit into their procedures moving forward.
While it is always hoped that these practise exercises never turn into a reality situation, it is reassuring to know that safety practises are ongoing at ACHS.
The Rocket Report is back after a short summer holidays!
Rockets Football is also in full swing with the schedule out and the first home game was on Friday the Sept. 6 when they faced Watrous. The team lost, 44 to 77. Their next game is set for Friday, Sept. 13 where they play in Davidson. In Rocket sports news, the volleyball teams are up
in running with try outs finished and teams practicing and preparing for the coming season.
Golf is also underway, any students who wish to participate need to speak to Mrs. Knudsen as soon as possible and need to get the sign-up form back to her immediately.
In club news a new club is starting up called the Art Club. If students wish to join there is a sign-up sheet in Miss. Gray’s art room. The club plans to meet every Monday right after school. They are hoping to update and add to the older murals along the school walls and give students a
chance to try different art techniques and styles. Important upcoming dates for students to remember includes picture day on Sept. 11th, Grade 9 parent meeting on the evening of Sept. 11th and athlete parent meeting on the evening of Sept. 12th.
SOUTHLAND CO-OPCENTRE
TheSouthlandCo-op Centre is NOWOPEN forthe season. Forall things Ice, Teen Centre,Climbing Wall, PickleBallCourt, SimulatorRoom,etc.visit www.assiniboiarecreation.comThereyou will findthe schedules,pricing and bookinginformation. Seeyou at theRink!
FALL FREE LANDFILLTIPPING SAVE THEDATEfor Fall Free Tipping -Saturday,October 5th to Saturday,October 12th.Thisisfor AssiniboiaResidents& Businessesonlyand will require aLANDFILLTICKET forverification. Fall Free Tipping LandfillTickets arenow availableinthe Town Office.Freetipping is Residential& CommercialWaste excludes contractor &demolitionwaste)
LORAAS RECYCLING/GARBAGEREMINDER
Pleasehaveyour garbage/recyclingbins outthe street on thenight before collections daysor by7:00amthe dayofcollection
Wendy Besplug (at right) wins the Duce pot $767 at the Thompson Lake Ladies Golf Wind Up held September 8. The prize was presented by Morgan Ferraton (at left).
ACHS Rockets
Village of Limerick NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS (Municipal Elections)
Public notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Mayor: Village of Limerick
Councillor: Village of Limerick Number to be Elected - 2 will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 100 Main Street, Limerick, Saskatchewan and during regular business hours from September 20, 2024 to October 9, 2024 at 100 Main Street, Limerick, Saskatchewan.
Nomination form and public disclosure statement may be obtained by email or fax, please contact the Village Office at (306)263-2020 or available at the Village Office, 100 Main Street, Limerick, Saskatchewan
Dated this 20th day of September, 2024.
Tammy A. Franks Retur ning Officer
Notice
Note:
Dated this 13th day of September, 2024. Tammy Franks, Treasurer
The Government of Saskatchewan’s Graduate Retention Program (GRP) has provided $801 million in tuition tax credits to more than 85,000 post-secondary graduates living and working in Saskatchewan since its inception in 2009.
“We have more postsecondary graduates living and working in Saskatchewan than ever before, thanks to the made-inSaskatchewan Graduate Retention Program,” Advanced Education Minister Colleen Young said. “Our province has a strong economy and a bright future, and developing a knowledgeable and skilled labour force is key to that success continuing for generations to come.”
Saskatchewan is currently the only jurisdiction in Canada to offer a tax-based graduate retention program that provides a rebate up to $20,000 of tuition fees paid by eligible graduates who live in, or move to, the province and file a Saskatchewan
income tax return. Some graduates who received their post-secondary education in another province or international students who choose to stay and build their careers in Saskatchewan can also be eligible.
“The Graduate Retention Program helps students ease the burden of financial strain after leaving university and encourages them to help grow Saskatchewan’s economy,” University of Regina ‘24 graduate Kyle Bye Said. “This program allows me to continue to grow connections in the province I love while helping keep life affordable.”
Graduates receive income tax credits based on the tuition paid and credits are applied to income tax owed over a seven-year period, provided the graduate continues to file taxes in Saskatchewan. Graduates have up to 10 years after graduation to claim the GRP and/or apply for any unused credits.
The Town of Assiniboia staff start to put up the honourary banners recognizing the men and women who fought for our freedom in years gone by. Each year there is 52 double sided banners added to the streets and avenues of Assiniboia to pay homage to these veterans. These banners are a way for the Town of Assiniboia to show their appreciation for all those who have served.
Assiniboia has made a name for itself as being a top-notch host
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
This article will focus on a factor we may take for granted. Assiniboia has made a name for itself in proving they are top notch hosts when it comes to events and activities in the community. And, it’s a well-known fact that each time an event or activity is hosted, the bar seems to be raised just a little higher.
However, top notch events also bring forth top notch benefits to the community making the event or activity a win-win situation for everyone.
Some naysayers might dismiss a community of 2500 stating that the amount of traffic, visitors, players and their entourages, or attendees for any given event are not enough to make a difference. Here, I tell you, I beg to differ and I will point out why.
The total economic impact to the community is a compilation of direct and indirect expenditures.
Direct impact, of course, results from the organizing committee that may include such things as: extra staff brought in to assist with the event; adding hours to existing staff or hiring casual team members to fulfill the needs of the event; either way here, money is flowing out of the facility and into the community; and goods and services are needed to run the event such as more paper products, food products, and drinks, cleaning supplies, signage, programs and admittance tags that are all
required for the positive fulfilment of the event.
Provisions are needed for volunteers, officials and organizers that can include some of the same items in the above list and additionally badges, lanyards or shirts to identify committee and volunteers, written guidelines that need copying and any event I’ve been part of organizers and volunteers are not paid however they are compensated at times with meals and drinks in appreciation
Provisions, swag bags or bonuses to visiting teams as well as prizes awarded at the end of an event all of which need to be purchased somewhere; and with organizers recognizing the value of their sponsors, these purchases come from town.
Marketing is a necessity to attract people to the event or activity and it may come in local advertising venues, or posters being made but it is purchased and it does include other attractions in town benefitting everyone as visitors have an option to check out all the town has to offer in addition to their attendance at the event.
Marketing brings in the people who will attend the event and these people in turn make purchases in the community whether it is gas, food, lodging, purchases at the event or otherwise.
Now on to indirect impacts from these hosted events or activities:
Participants in the event itself such as registered guests, players, coaches,
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NOTICE Of Intent to Adopt an OFFICIAL COMMUNTIY PLAN and ZONING BYLAW
Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Town of Willow Bunch intends to consider the adoption an Official Community Plan Bylaw and Zoning Bylaw pursuant to The Planning and Development Act,
proposed Official Community Plan (OCP) will establish and provide direction on municipal land use policies, goals and objectives. The proposed Zoning Bylaw is a regulator y document that implements the policies contained in the OCP, help direct and manage growth and development. This document will establish zoning districts, prescribe permitted and discretionar y uses within each zoning district establish a development permitted process, prescribe a process for appeals and provide a provision for amendments.
AFFECTED LAND
The proposed OCP and Zoning Bylaw encompass all properties within the municipality of the Town of Willow Bunch
PUBLIC INSPECTION
The revised document and maps of the OCP and Zoning Bylaw may be viewed at the Town of Willow Bunch located at #16 Edouard Beaupre St These documents may be examined by any person without payment of any fee between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding holidays, up to and including October 1st, 2024.
Copies of the documents may be obtained from the Administrator at a cost of $25.00 Any questions about these documents can be directed to the Town of Willow Bunch Office.
PUBLIC HEARING
The Council will hear all submissions respecting the proposed OCP and Zoning Bylaw on: October 1st, 2024 7:30 -8:00 p.m in Council Chambers Council will hear all persons who are present at the meeting and wish to speak on this matter They will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned before the hearing. Issued at the Town of Willow Bunch this 6th day of September 2024. Sharleine Eger
Town of Willow Bunch
managers, partygoers, etc. all expect to spend money at either the event itself or within the community while they are there.
If you add organizers, volunteers, officials, music people, catering services, participants, players, coaches, fans, families and friends of any of these named people and potentially other visitors – well that’s a whole lot of “opportunity for Assiniboia”, so to speak
Remember not all meals are purchased or eaten at the venue as some travellers arrive earlier, or choose to eat off site, or want to grab some fresh snacks for their RV or hotel room, or want to grab a bite before they return home.
Not all beverages will be ingested on site either. Some folks want to stock up their trailers while there, hit an establishment, or buy some cold drinks from a convenience store because they forgot to chill their own. It’s no secret that water bottles are likely one of the most popular purchases during an event, especially those that take place in the summer.
Fuel isn’t just purchased by travellers coming in as often outdoor events re -
quire fuel for equipment used for the operation and maintenance of their event.
Including these impacts listed, it can be a difficult number to evaluate but it is safe to presume and assume that any event, regardless of size, can stimulate spending in the community in one manner or another.
Think of yourself when you travel to an out-of-town event and what you spend your money on. Do you bring home souvenirs, purchase toiletries you forgot to pack, or made sure you tried a unique shop or restaurant in the community you visited, went for a swim, or took in a movie at local theatre. These are exactly the same things visitors to events and activities in your community are doing.
Other benefits can include improvements made in the community or venue to host their event. Those improvements will benefit these communities for many years to come.
In the same breath, positive financial results often go back into the community with a larger capital purchase or donation. Past events surplus may have been used to purchase additional equipment for sports teams, dressing room up -
grades at the rink, or help fund another event/activity in town. There are many more bonuses too numerous to mention.
The success stories of sporting events in particular increase the likelihood of playing repeat host = benefit. The success stories of sporting events also increase the likelihood of increased registration in those programs in upcoming years = benefit.
Sponsors will see the resulting benefits from their donations as they can capitalize on sales opportunities resulting from increased traffic in the community. And, organizers will refer traffic from their event or activity to those sponsors to ensure they are showing their appreciation for their funding.
Post- event benefits are often forgotten. How many times has Assiniboia been talked about in the news after an event was held. Social media shout outs after the past events have been shared numerous times. These “unpaid” advertisements ensure that people want to come and visit your community either on a casual visit, or the next time a big-ticket event comes to town. Also think of your
local paper, who can write about these events both preluding the activity and following-up the activity, giving way for potential additional sales of their publications.
There is a giant circle of benefits that come to a community from playing hosts. Look no further than your local rink, ball diamond, Ag grounds and hall, community centre, museum or other venue for the next event.
For 2025, organizers have already secured Canadian Mixed Curling championships. Whether the event is annual, seasonal or brand new – there is a plethora of benefits that come to the community that hosts events and activities.
Let’s not discount that with the benefits of hosting, there also presents multiple opportunities for a community. Consider these lists when you are asked to support, come on board of an organizing group, or help promote something upcoming in your town. Hosting can present a sense of community pride as well as a sense of accomplishment; and it goes without saying, the benefits of hosting are a big boost to the local economy.
RCMP Saskatchewan enforcement response teams continue to deliver results
Investments by the Government of Saskatchewan into the RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) continue to deliver results in targeting criminal activity in the province. RCMP’s SERT team includes their Crime Reduction Team (CRT), Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), and Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST).
From December 2023 through July 2024, RCMP SERT teams seized a total of 128 firearms, over $196,000 CAD, more than 940 grams of methamphetamine, nearly 5,000 grams of cocaine, and over 456,000 packs of illegal tobacco.
“I want to thank the
RCMP for their continued efforts to address gangs, illegal weapons and drugs, human trafficking and other acts of criminal activity in the province,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Paul Merriman said. “Investments in SERT, and other specialized policing units allow officers to target these complex issues and improve overall community safety.”
The RCMP operates a WEST team in Prince Albert and a joint team between Meadow Lake and Saskatoon. Both teams have the capacity to respond to incidents across the province, with the aim of targeting high-profile offenders, such as gang members and violent offenders, with out-
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Rural Municipality of Willow Bunch No 42
Public Notice is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Councillor Division 1 (one)
Councillor Division 3 (three)
Councillor Division 5 (five) Reeve
Will be received by the undersigned during regular office hours up until 4:00 p.m. on the 9th day of October, 2024 at the Willow Bunch Municipal Office (#16 Edouard Beaupre St.). All nomination forms must be submitted with a completed public disclosure statement as per Section 67(6)(d) of the Local Government Elections Act, 2015
Nomination forms may be obtained at: Willow Bunch Municipal Office
Dated this 13th day of September, 2024.
Sharleine Eger
Retur ning Officer
standing warrants who are deemed a potential threat to public safety. Between December 2023 and the end of July 2024, 23 search warrants, 96 arrest warrants and 75 arrests were made by RCMP WEST.
“I am proud of the continued excellent work of the Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Team (SERT), who have removed 128 firearms and almost 12 kilograms of drugs from Saskatchewan communities in the first half of this year alone,” Saskatchewan RCMP Commanding Officer Assistant Commissioner Rhonda Blackmore said.
“They work seamlessly with our frontline police officers at detachments to help keep Saskatchewan
communities safe.” RCMP CRTs respond to crime surges in rural areas, targeting prolific offenders and street gang in Saskatchewan. From December 2023 through July 2024, CRTs conducted 156 search warrants, 269 arrest warrants and made 365 arrests that resulted in 533 charges being laid. As a result, more than 4,300 grams of cocaine, 900 grams of methamphetamine, and 5,500 grams of illicit drugs, including psilocybin, MDMA and illegal cannabis, were taken off the street. Meanwhile, the RCMP’s STRT is a specialized, intelligence-led enforcement team that investigates weapons, drug and human trafficking cases.
Notice of Call for Nominations (Municipal Elections)
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Councillor:
will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the municipal office at Lot 36-37,
Nomination forms may be obtained at the following locations: The municipal office on Dufferin Street in Viceroy, Saskatchewan Municipal website: https://rm71.ca/forms/ Dated this 13th day of September 2024.
Jan McCann Returning Officer Reeve:
Gravelbourg’s 96-year-old community icon will come down
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The community of Gravelbourg will be forever changed in September of 2024, as the decommissioning and dismantling of the 1928 water tower will begin.
The Town of Gravelbourg kept citizens informed throughout the entire process from decision to action, on their website. Most recent announcements said the Aug 15 project start date was pushed to Aug. 22, with tank lifting day scheduled for Aug. 27, weather permitting. However, due to forecasted winds in excess of 30 km/hr, the dismantling of the tower was pushed again to Aug. 30, weather permitting.
Mother Nature seemed to have the water tower in her favor as once again Aug. 29, weather delays caused postponement of the water tower dismantling project.
The entire community infrastructure project would not have been possible without the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan contributing. More than $2.5 millions is to be received to increase the capacity of
critical watermains as well as decommissioning of the aging water tower.
A March Government of Canada press release is also included on the town’s website
website includes a water tower demolition plan.
Safety concerns had arisen on the historic water tower showcasing that in both the 2012 and 2018 reports, there was a
“Though its striking presence will be missed, Council and Administration hope the public can understand why the tower must
outlining a $45 million investment in green infrastructure projects across Saskatchewan, aiming to safeguard public health. Gravelbourg was one of the recipients of this federal funding. The release stated, “while the Town of Gravelbourg will get upgrades to critical drinking watermains, protecting public health for generations to come.
An earlier June 27 public meeting, showcased, in a power point presentation, what the steps were leading to the decision as well as what will happen moving forward. A press release was made on Aug. 8 and included a mailout to residents. The town’s
long list of necessary repairs needed which could come to more than $2 million. There was possibility of water in the tank contaminating system as well as the tank itself had many corroded areas and rusted seams.
Corrosion on the legs and tank would affect structural integrity and the 2018 report warned for potential of catrosphic leaks with concerns for proximity to day care, school and residences.
The tower itself is at its life cycle maximum and no longer a critical component of Gravelbourg’s water system
Certainly, the community significance was
not lost on town council as they recognized it serves as a become of home as well as being reflected in artistic inspiration as it is often featured in Gravelbourg landscape art and photography. At over 150 ‘, the water town is one of the tallest remaining water towers of its kind in Saskatchewan. So, the time had come to say goodbye to the 1928 water tower. The historic water tower has been out of service since late 2022. “Though its striking presence will be missed, Council and Administration hope the public can understand why the tower must come down.”
Most of Gravelbourg’s historic buildings date back to the 1920s and despite the love of these structures and their part in the community’s culture and heritage, Council acknowledges that there is limited capacity of ratepayers and generosity of donors to preserve landmarks.
Residents and visitors were and are encouraged to share photos of the tower on social media to ‘toast the tower’ curing its final days as part of the Gravelbourg skyline.
Aging comes with many changes that affect the body
Aging is an inevitable component of life. Young children often cannot wait until they get older because of the freedoms that seemingly come with being more mature. On the flip side, adults often wish they were young again. Time waits for no person, and with aging comes many changes, many of which manifest physically. The following are some components of healthy aging.
Bones, joints and muscles: With age bones may become thinner and more fragile. Joints will lose their flexibility, while muscles lose mass and strength, endurance and flexibility. These changes may be accompanied by a loss of stability that can result in
balance issues or falls. It’s common for the body frame to shrink, and a person may lose a few inches from his or her height. A doctor may suggest a bone-density test or supplementation with calcium and vitamin D to keep bones as strong as possible. Physical activity that includes strength training can help keep muscles strong and flexible.
Body fat: As muscle mass diminishes, body fat can increase. By age 75, the percentage of body fat typically doubles compared with what it was during young adulthood. The distribution of fat also changes, which can adjust the shape of the torso.
Heart: Organs in the body also age, and cells begin to
Seniors’ Care Strategy would help residents
Most Canadians will rely on seniors care at some point in their lives. Seniors’ care includes home care, long-term care, palliative care and pharmacare. Canada’s health care system isn’t prepared to meet the needs of the aging population. Access to seniors’ care varies greatly across the country. Wait times, eligibility criteria and outof-pocket expenses are different in each of the provinces and territories.
Seniors’ care often falls outside the scope of the Canada Health Act, which only covers services provided by doctors and hospitals. A lot of seniors care has been privatized, and not everyone can afford it.
There are less beds available in hospitals and long-term care facilities now due to funding cuts. In some regions, people are waiting several years for a long-term care bed. At the same time, many seniors admitted to long-term care facilities could likely remain at home if they had access to adequate home care.
Canada needs a National Seniors’ Care Strategy to ensure
die off, making those organs work less efficiently. The heart is one such organ that changes with age. It pumps more than 2.5 million beats during one’s lifetime. As a person gets older, blood vessels lose their elasticity, and the heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body. Exercise can help keep the heart as strong as possible.
Urinary tract and kidneys: The kidneys become smaller as a person ages, which means they may not be able to filter urine as effectively. Urinary incontinence may occur due to hormonal changes or because of an enlarged prostate. Furthermore, the bladder may become less elastic, leading to an urge to urinate more frequently.
Janice Faye Schikowski
June 26, 1947
August 29, 2024
Her family is heartbroken to announce the passing of our angel Janice on Thursday August 29 2024 at 3:20 a m following the confirmation of pancreatic cancer one month earlier She was predeceased by her parents; parents-inlaw; sister-in-law; and three brothers-in-law Janice is survived by her husband of 58 years, Ken; children Darren (Keri-Lynn), Dawn and Tracey; grandchildren Parker (Veronica) Ashley (Taylor) Brittany (Larkin) Ace Chandria (Mike) and Brayden; three greatgrandsons Emmett William and Dawson; sister Shirley (Bob) Derbyshire; and brother-in-law Don (Dian) Schikowski; sister-in-law Fran (Rick) Dick; nieces, nephews, and many dear friends and neighbours The family would like to thank Alan Blair Clinic, Palliative Home Care, and Palliative 3A for their care and compassion A Memorial Service will be held at Regina Funeral Home and Cemetery, 4001 East Victoria Avenue, Regina, SK on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 10:00 a m Those wishing to view a live stream of the service, please log onto https://fweb tv/153646 Family and friends are invited to leave tributes at www reginafuneralhome ca Arrangements entrusted to Regina Funeral Home and Cemetery (306) 789-8850
Geor ge Moldovan George G Moldovan of Limerick, SK, passed peacefully on September 3, 2024 at the Foyer St Joseph in Ponteix at the age of 90 years He was born on June 14 1934 on the family farm NW 4-7-3 W3rd in the R M of Stonehenge #73 George is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Bernice (née McLean) Moldovan, son Danny Moldovan, daughter Charlene Moldovan, and nephew Kenneth Draghici, who was like a son to both George and Bernice He is also survived by his brother William (Darlene) Moldovan sisters Helen Precop Valerie (Pat) Sweeney and Liz (Ken) Redfern along with numerous nieces and nephews He is predeceased by his parents, George J and Marie “Mary” (née Cojohn) Moldovan, his sister Marian (Michael) Draghici, his brothers John (Betty) Moldovan and Samuel (Delores) Moldovan, his sister Virginia (Tom) McGuckie, and his brother-in-law George Precop A Private Family Celebration of Life was held on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 11:00 A M at Piché Hawkins Grondin Funeral Chapels, Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, a Private Family Interment followed at Mount Hope Cemetery
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In Assiniboia, the halls of the Elementary School, 7th Avenue School, and the ACHS are now ringing with laughter and comradeship as the students returned to school for another year. In Assiniboia there are 553 students registered in these three schools. Top photo, from left, are Tauren, Lincoln, Jazmin, and Aspyn Ball. Top right, are Tamara, mom Sarah Anderson and brother James. Bottom left, is Mrs. Rasmussen and Page.
Southland Co-op Fuel Good program benefits community organizations
Freelance Reporter
The annual Fuel Good Day initiative takes place on Sept 17 at Co-ops, with the 2023 event raising $645,000 at Co-ops across Western Canada.
Southland Co-op will be participating in the annual campaign at the Assiniboia Gas Bar, Cor-
onach Service Centre, Lafleche Service Station and Mossbank Branch, affirms Marie Magnuson, Member Relations Officer.
When customers fill up at a Co-op gas bar on Fuel God Day, they have an opportunity to make an impact on their local community as for every litre of fuel sold, participating
Co-ops donate a portion back to a local charity or non-profit organization of their choice.
Since 2017, Fuel Good Day has raised more than $4.2 million supporting more than 870 local organizations.
Magnuson says that Southland Co-op has sent proceeds of $30,000 to
various community causes since they started participating in the program in 2017.
For the 2024 campaign, proceeds from Southland Co-op will be earmarked for the 55 Club in Assiniboia for club improvements including kitchen upgrades and new chairs. In Coronach, proceeds will go to the New Horizons Club as they will be shingling their roof at the Drop Inn Centre.
In Lafleche, proceeds are towards the Lafleche Early Learning and Childcare Centre for renovations to the daycare’s back yard. In Mossbank, the Furrow and Faith Retirement Villa will be the
recipient as they will be upgrading appliances and outside furniture.
“All locations will be having a BBQ from 11 to 1 (11:30 to 1 at Mossbank), while the Lafleche Early Learning & Childcare Centre are also planning a Bake Sale,” adds Magnuson.
Southland Co-op will be donating 10 cents from every litre of fuel purchased at Gas Bars to these selected local organizations. This includes all grades of gasoline and diesel fuel.
“We’ll also be donating $1 for every Co-operative Coffee or Big Cool drink purchased at participating locations (Assiniboia,
Coronach & Lafleche).”
Each Southland Co-op Gas Bar location holds a “Win you Fill” draw the first Friday of each month. As a thank you to our customers for supporting Fuel Good Day and our selected recipients, we are providing an additional opportunity to “Win your Fill” on Fuel Good Day. Fueling up at your local Co-op will not only help your engine run smoother, it provides equity back to Co-op members, with the added bonus, on Fuel Good Day, of benefitting a community organization in your Southland Co-opcommunity. On Sept. 17, help fuel a dream in your community.
RCMP seek info on break & enter
The Assiniboia RCMP received a call for service of a break and enter to a restaurant located on the 300 block of First Avenue East in Assiniboia on August 21, 2024. The break-in is believed to have occurred at approximately 1:l 5a.m. on the same date.
The Assiniboia RCMP is requesting assistance from the public in identifying any individual(s), who are believed to have information regarding this incident. The investigation is ongoing.
If you have information on the identity of this individual, or any other information useful to the case, please contact the Assiniboia RCMP at 306642-7110 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-84 77 or online at saskcrimestoppers. com.
Sherri Solomko
The Southland Co-op Centre hosted a sold-out Western Hockey League preseason game, featuring the Moose Jaw Warriors and the Regina Pats.