By all accounts, 2024 was absolutely another remarkable year for the community of Assiniboia.
Hosting events seems to be the some of the heart and soul of the community and it definitely showcases this community to those who attend these events and activities. In turn, playing host is also of great benefit to economic benefits seen by bringing in visitors to attractive venues, events and activities. I can’t begin to touch on everything that I have written about that is great in Assiniboia but I will offer a review of some of those topics.
Southland Co-op Centre continues to be an attraction factor for residents and visitors alike. In addition to two big ticket events held at the arena, there were off-site WHL and SJHL games. Hockey keeps the place hopping all winter and all of the added attractions at the centre like the virtual room and climbing wall create a hub of the community for everyone to enjoy. Tailgate parties watching games on the exterior screen are a benefit not enjoyed by very many communities.
Continued yearly events
remain plentiful. With the holidays upon us, never take for granted annual seasonal events in Assiniboia such as Twinkle Tour, Festival of Trees, Breakfast with Santa, shopping promotion, Night Lights parade and much more.
Canada Day festivities in Assiniboia continue to grow and evolve.
There are many people, places and spaces that have stood out and I have written about this past year. Shurniak Gallery is one such place as it is often mentioned when visitors have been to Assiniboia and when I can write about continued special exhibits and activities held there.
Better Together barbecues this summer are truly doing what they set out to do and that is unite a community for a common purpose, ensuring everyone recognizes and celebrates that communities like Assiniboia thrive when they are better together. And, it all starts with sharing a meal together.
The town must never underestimate also the value of school sports events that draw in additional traffic on weekends for tournaments and events like the “Friday Night Lights” football events.
From volleyball season right through to basketball season, there is non-stop action in the ACCHS gymnasiums hosting regular tournaments or district/ conference events for the various sports the school hosts. These activities at the school are a great opportunity to showcase the community and adds an economic boost to local business.
The Assiniboia and District Museum venue is also a popular hot spot for visitors as well as playing host to a variety of events and activities that offered something for all generations to experience and enjoy. This venue run by dedicated volunteers celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2024.
Excitement continues to grow watching the construction of the new PetroCan C-Store and soon to be Dairy Queen franchise. Other great additions residents have seen progress and results on, that were because of those who were the driving factions behind them and those who continue to support them.
Golden South Childcare is edging closer to reality, a much-needed service in Assiniboia.
Continued on page 4
hold
Fife Lake Hotel owners end an era, excited to begin a new adventure
Submitted by Muriel Fehr
It was quite by chance that Lawson Harkness came to become the owner of Fife Lake Hotel back in 1974. He had served in the military overseas, came home and held a few types of employment.
The first of these was a police officer. His father happened to see the hotel for sale during his stint in a less than satisfactory
form of employment.
Harkness took up the reins as owner of the hotel and in his own words “The good years outweigh the bad or we wouldn’t be here.” Gail joined him as his wife in 1978.
One of the first things he did was some serious repairs to the hotel rooms so they could be available. Next on the list was an addition with a western theme for the bar.
In 1980 he started a money wall with a $5 bill autographed “The Boss” which now surrounds the bar with money from many years ago as well as some from other countries and in all denominations. For six years they had live music every night of the week.
Lawson served as the director of the Hotel Association for six years and in those years fought hard
for bars to be open on Sundays for family dining.
Fife Lake Hotel was the first bar in Saskatchewan out of the eventual 12 to open on Sundays.
After 50 years of running this establishment Lawson and Gail have decided to move on to the next interest in their life. They have sold the business to a couple from Coronach. The last week of February will be their last week before the transfer of ownership happens. Lawson nostalgically stated “there sure are good memories in here.” A party to celebrate 50 years in business was held at their location on November 30. The Badlands Band was there to provide live music as entertainment for the couple of hundred guests that passed through from as far away as B.C.
Gail and Lawson Harkness
a special sign, created for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Fife Lake Hotel held on November 30.
Sherri Solomko
LANDS FOR RENT BY TENDER HOSTIN - TENDER
Located in RM of Poplar Valley No 12 N1/2 & SW 5-3-29W2 All Sections 7-3-29W2 N1/2 6-3-29W2 S1/2 8-3-29W2 & NE 8-3-29W2
Does
SALE BY TENDER HEADRICK TENDER
RM of Stonehenge No 73
NE 05-09-03W3 approx 159 acres NW 05-09-03W3 approx 159 acres
Separate offer to be placed on each quar ter
Prospective Purchasers must rely on their own research of proper ty to deter mine acreage, condition, improvements, and assessments
Highest or any tender not necessar ily accepted. Please submit a cheque for 5% of the bid with tender, payable to Lewans & Ford in Tr ust and in a clear ly mar ked envelope “Headrick Tender”
Tenders will close Friday December 13, 2024 at 2:30pm
LEWANS & FORD
Barrister & Solicitors
Box 759, 228 Centre Street, Assiniboia SK SOH OBO 306-642-4520 or fax: 306-642-5777 office@lewansford.ca
Advent activity hosted by Assiniboia CWL
Submitted by Muriel Fuhr
The first Sunday in Advent 2024 was celebrated on December 1 by the Catholic Women’s League at the St. George Parish in Assiniboia.
Advent is the four weeks beginning with Sunday each week in preparation for Christmas. A large Advent wreath is laid in front of the church alter with four candles.
A candle is lit the first week, two the next until on the last Sunday before Christmas all four have been lit. Each candle will mark a different theme with the first week’s theme being Hope.
The Heatcoat Family was invited to light the first candle during the celebration held December 1.
After Mass the congregation was invited for lunch in the church hall. As soon as lunch was finished a few Catholic Women’s League (CWL) members invited the children to the tables where the materials for the Advent crafts were laid out. The children worked their way through the craft at each table with the supervision of a few CWL ladies and a few very helpful young ladies. The selfless volunteerism to make this function work
was inspiring.
The first activity was a banner showing the Advent candles. The second activity was beaded bracelets of a specific coloured bead pattern. The third activity was a card the children could add stickers and stamps to. The lunch and activities give the congregation time to spend together in leisurely camaraderie. The Advent activities help the children to understand what is happening each week as they prepare for Christmas. The families have an opportunity to focus on the liturgical meaning of Christmas when they add their crafts to their Christmas decor.
The next three weeks will have different activities with lunch after the Sunday Mass.
This Advent Activity event has been one of the service missions of the CWL for more than 20 years after former St. George’s CWL member Maureen Powers initiated the event. One of the past presidents Lynn Rogers continued the event and while the general theme remains the same the crafts do vary. This year’s president was happy to report that 55 parishioners stayed for lunch and a dozen children took part in the crafts.
Take Care Ever yone Shirley and Family FOR
The famil y of Billy Og le wo ul d lik e to th an k ev er yone for th e ac ts of kin dnes s , phone ca ll s, car ds, food an d fl ow er s. We wer e fortunat e that th e we a th e r o n the Hills of Home co-op er ated for ou r family gathering Billie's sp irit will en jo y the view from ther e.
Thank you to the long t er m car e staff a nd Ros s Funer al Ho me for all yo ur he lp and concer n.
Assiniboia’s Rotary Carol Festival celebrated its 65th anniversary of providing holiday music to residents and visitors, held at the Messiah Lutheran Church on December 1.
Editorial & Opinions
Sherri Solomko/ Freelance Reporter
If you have ever participated in or read up on ways to help alleviate anxiety, there are often methods that encourage using your senses ‑‑ focus on something you can see, something you can smell, something you can hear and something you can feel.
The comforts of Christmas in our home come from the senses.
As a child growing up, the comforting aroma of fresh gingerbread or shortbread made me instantly feel the love of mom. She did so much fantastic baking over the years. We could enjoy these smells when we first arrived home from school or on a gloomy, snowy day outside. As soon as the aroma was evident to our noses we were sure to peek our heads into the kitchen to see if any taste testing was being allowed.
These familiar scents, many available only during the holiday season, always bring me back to memories of mom and Christmas comforts shared with family and guests.
Sadly, there were times we had to be with a family in palliative care in Saskatoon. There was a volunteer that came in and baked for that ward. Not specifically for the comfort food which baking provides, but mostly for the benefit of having the smell of fresh
baking override the smell of the hospital itself.
Then there is the sense of hearing. The sound of Christmas music soothes my soul, whether it is Kenny Chesney’s country version of Away in a Manger, Boney M’s classic Mary’s Boy Child or a choir and congregation combining for heavenly hymns during Advent and Christmas services. Wherever I am when I hear or play this music, I find it immediately calming and comforting and I play it regularly in our home and our vehicles.
When it comes to something you can feel there are a variety of experiences that provide comfort. I, for one, find the warmth of a candle or fireplace most soothing. Mom always had the fireplace lit in the winter, not just for the warmth but for the comfort factor.
We had a round fireplace in our family room and that is also where our tree was. It was the best feeling in the world to gather in there all warm and cozy watching a Christmas special together and smelling the aromatic pine and birch crackling in the fire place. I don’t have a real fireplace (electric) in my home, but when I turn it on and see the faux flames and feel the warmth, I am sitting nearby and recollecting fond memories of mom.
At Christmas, the comforts of what you can see are
COMFORTS OF CHRISTMAS COMES FROM OUR SENSES
endless. My biggest love is Christmas lights. I love sitting with only the tree lit watching them twinkle around the ornaments. We are sure to set our tree timer so we can enjoy these calming lights both in the morning and after dusk in the evenings.
I worked with some great gals in Wilkie some years back and during a stressful computer conversion amid the usual seasonal chaos, they teased me that I would defer to looking at the “pretty lights” when I was stressed. I encouraged them to do the same. This became a running joke amongst us, although they may have had to admit, it actually worked.
Residential Christmas lights are also on my favourites list and we are sure to take in a tour or two once homes become lit up for the holidays.
Combining the comforts of Christmas that include our senses of hearing, seeing and smelling you will undoubtedly come to the comfort of feeling the warmth and joy that Christmas brings, the smile inducing memories of Christmases with mom and the overall feeling of peace and love.
This year, I will be finding simple pleasures in the senses providing comforts of Christmas. Miss you, Mom, as you provided a lifetime of these comforts and I will always be thankful for that.
Many Assiniboia businesses celebrated milestone anniversaries in 2024
Continued from front page
The Ross Payant Nursing Home patio is also a welcome addition for staff, residents and their families.
Communities in Bloom continues to create a beautiful environment and their addition of a gazebo near the pool was a welcome addition for residents.
So many milestone anniversaries celebrated this year showcases the vision,
commitment and support in partnership with business, organizations and residents. Earlier in the year, E. Bourassa and Sons held a centennial anniversary.
Multiple silver anniversary celebrations took place in 2024 including the Assiniboia Apostolic Church, Christmas Lane market, and Festival of Trees. Mom’s Florist celebrates 35 years in As-
siniboia by adding a new business to their location.
The Rotary Club recently held an event to mark 65 years as a service club in Assiniboia. Recently they also hosted their Festival of Carols event.
Assiniboia’s Community Choir celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2024. Integra Tire, family business, held a special celebration for their 30th
Publisher: Gordon Brewerton
anniversary. So much wow factor with the longevity of all these people, places and spaces continuing to be a thriving factor in and for Assiniboia.
While many communities are size are experiencing their own sense of “chaos” so to speak because of lack of business, people moving away for opportunity or no longer viable service groups and organizations, Assiniboia in fact is very different from this mold.
These are some of the multiple reasons things continue to click in Assiniboia, things such as: Continued, committed business owners and Businesses that chose to renovate, expand or relocate in Unity because they have discovered the opportunity here. Community groups and organizations that have strong cores of executives and volunteers who choose to continually strive for success in these programs.
A strong volunteer core
in many areas that keeps programs operating; those volunteers that continually assist in the health care facilities and senior centres, and those that assist with multiple other facets and activity in our community.
Assiniboia is a community led by strong leadership in your mayor and council, reaffirmed by the confidence voters had to acclaim them all for another four-year term.
They choose to continually seek ways to improve the community, and be active participants in many of their town’s activities.
Assiniboia also has the benefit of a strong Chamber of Commerce that continues to seek ways and lay out plans that will help the business core maintain and improve themselves. As well they offered a fabulous celebratory event this year, recognizing all the great people and groups in this community helping them to know they are appreciated in their roles.
The sports organizations in town don’t just run successful programs for its participants they also provide fundraising and hours of volunteer work to help keep your rec venues in a great state making them appreciated by users and noticed by visitors.
Assiniboia is very fortunate and that was brought about by the residents here that continually choose to give back to their community and act when needed. It’s a community who chooses to collaborate, and often, creating an energetic environment that is collectively contributed to – without chaos – by all those who live in it. There is no community without unity in it.
So, it seems, whether it be due to resilience, perseverance or commitment to growth and the future – another year has shown that Assiniboia is defying the odds that other small towns in Saskatchewan have experienced.
Correction: The Production of the Grinch was a dance number featuring the dancers of Giselle’s Showtyme Dance and not a play as reported in the November 29th Times.
Healthy teeth, happy life: celebrating 35 years of Wheatland Dental
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
The very first dental clinic in Assiniboia began 65 years ago when Dr. Rod Taillon opened the very first dental office in the community. His son Mitch started with his dad in 1984, and Wes Thomson started in 1987.
Erin Bolen, practice manager, for Wheatland Dental in Assiniboia said, “Mitch and Wes took over the practice, forming Wheatland Dental in 1989. They decided to renovate and rebrand the former office, that was owned and operated by Rod Taillon. A contest was held within the community to come up with a new name, and that is how Wheatland Dental got its name.”
Wheatland is now owned by Dentalook, and operated by the team at Wheatland Dental. Currently the practicing dentists are Dr. Sanjay Sheth and Dr. Stephani Cooney.
The dental clinic also includes two Dental Hygienists, Nikie and April and one Dental Therapist, Candi. There are also five registered Dental Assistants. Louise, Debbie, Kara, Taylor and Paige. Front office staff include Lacy and Erin, making for a total of 12 staff working
out of this location.
In 35 years, the clinic has evolved. Bolen adds, “We have done some minor improvements and facelifts in the past couple of years. We have had the pleasure of having a few different Dentists in the office. Over the years, technologies and techniques have made treatments faster and more comfortable for patients including digital x-rays, laser dentistry, Itero 3D Scanner and Invisalign braces. As technology advances, so does the dental industry and we are excited to be apart of it.”
The long-term professional service in Assiniboia maintains there have been many highlights with the team making note of a few, stating, “We were lucky and fortunate enough to have two very long-term dentists in Assiniboia over the span of 30 + years. We are proud to be a part of the community and serve the surrounding area as well. We have taken part in many community events over the years. We like to participate in the community as much as we can.”
Of course, with any business, there are some challenges to face.
“It is always challen -
ging to find a dentist that chooses to stay in the community long term, we are grateful for their time spent with us, but a small town makes for a challenging long-term destination for many.”
The anniversary was celebrated together as a team with a catered lunch, by Marita Williams Catering and Baking, while reminiscing of memories made over the years at Wheatland Dental.
“We are planning to be here serving the community and surrounding area for years to come, striving to make a positive impact, one dental visit at a time. We plan to continue adding new services for the patients and have the team learn and grow. We want to provide our patients with the best patient care.”
Assiniboia is fortunate to have a number of professional services for residents and surrounding communities. Residents are appreciative of having the dedication of a longtime dental clinic in their home community, which helps eliminate trips to a larger centre for these services.
Milestone business anniversaries are a reminder that success is built on dedication and teamwork.
This company’s 35-year anniversary is a testament to the power of adaptability and pursuit of excellence, while appreciating how far they’ve come and
embrace the present while envisioning the future ahead.
The beauty of Wheatland Dental’s 35th anniversary lies not just in
Submitted by Pastor Chris Ulriksen Assiniboia Alliance Church
‘Longing for Something Better’
I don’t know about you, but I sure want to believe that there’s something better in store for us after this life. Not that life is all bad. Most of us have a variety of blessings, especially if we compare ourselves to most of human history instead of our rich neighbours.
At the same time, there’s sure a lot of sickness, anger, fighting and general hurt in our world. So we long for something betterheaven or something like it.
But the big question in my mind is: What will make it better? We often think it will be the removal of all the bad stuff around us - the “wicked people”, government, corruption, disease, etc. We tend to externalize it - it will be better when “all that stuff out
there” is fixed. And yet… as much as we try to blame others for our problems, an honest assessment usually reveals that the problem starts with us. With me. It’s my selfishness, stubbornness, anger, criticism and bad decisions that cause all sorts of problems. Even if everything else is fixed, I’m still going to mess up whatever “better” world I exist in.
It’s me that needs to change for heaven to have any hope of being a better place. And this is
why we point people to Jesus. Christian teaching isn’t just about being forgiven, it’s about being changed - turning from our ways to God’s ways, being united to Jesus by the Holy Spirit, and becoming, gradually at first and completely after our death, the kind of person who is better.
Sometimes it’s hard to believe you or I could ever be better like we want to be. By ourselves we can’t be. But with God’s help transforming us, maybe heaven really could be heaveneven with us there.
HELP WANTED
Lewans & Ford Law Office is looking for a full time office person
Applicant must possess strong English language skills, both oral and written, and be able to answer phones, type with accuracy and have good computer skills.
The success applicant must have good time management skills and be able to work in a fast paced office setting. Accounting knowledge and knowledge of Word Perfect would be an asset but we are willing to train. Salary to be negotiated Application will be received until December 31
Please forward Application to: Lewans & Ford Law Office Box 759, 228 Centre St Assiniboia, SK, SOH OBO or office@lewansford.ca
years they have spent serving the community with dental care needs, but in the friendships, they have built and the impact they have made along the way.
Grassroots Co-op
Grassroots Co-op is hiring a Team Member/Automotive Technician at our Woodrow location
Who we are:
Co-op does business differently As a co-operative, we believe in working together to serve Western Canadians, delivering profits back to our communities and investing in sustainable growth
What you’ll do:
Responsible to carry out appointments in a safe, timely, and efficient manner while providing exceptional customer service to all Co-op customers and employees
• Complete Oil Changes, vehicle maintenance, and troubleshoot
• Complete Tire fixes and changes.
• Shop and Site maintenance.
• Maintain a schedule and ensure timely delivery of products
Install products according to the customer’s desire, while ensuring a high level of safety
• Assist with Instore Duties when not in the shop
• Other Duties as assigned
Why it matters:
Our team provides a range of products and services to support our memberowners. Through the work that we do we help to build fuel feed and grow Western Canadian communities together
Who you are:
You are looking for a career in Customer Service and:
• You have the ability to work independently
You have 1-3 Years Automotive experience
Possess a valid driver’s licence
• You’re honest and trustworthy, are results-oriented and strive to be the best in what you do
• You believe in building relationships and collaborating to deliver solutions that matter most, and you recognize the value that different perspectives bring to meet shared objectives
• Small engine repair knowledge would be considered an asset Training can be made available for the right Candidate.
Our Team Members receive competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package, and an employer-contributed pension plan We encourage our Team Members to take advantage of learning opportunities, to grow and develop and to foster a culture of teamwork and innovation
Apply Instore or by email by December.15th, 2024 or contact us at grassrootsgm@sasktel.net for more information.
We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected to continue in the recruitment process will be contacted.
Staff from the Wheatland Dental recently celebrated their 35th anniversiary. In the top row, from left, are Dr. Sanjay Sheth, Lacy Burton, Candi Morhart, April Mulholland and Debbie Kesslering. In the bottom row, from left, are Erin Bolen, Louise Koller, Paige Sognesand and Taylor Mantell. Missing was Nikki Auser.
Our Town
Rocket Report: basketball teams to host games at ACHS
Submitted by Niamh Hickey
The basketball teams are up and running at ACHS. The girls team consists of Grades 10, 11, and 12s and is coached by Kaitlin Oancia and Jessie Rood. Their first tournament of the season was in Southey on December 6 and 7. The boys team is coached by Lewis Thomas and is managed by Lauren O’Byrne. The boys are set to face off Peacock Collegiate in Moose Jaw on Monday December 9.
The first home games are set for Monday, December 16. The girls face Notre Dame at 5:50 p.m. and the boys play Vanier Collegiate JV team at 7:30 p.m. Come out and cheer on our Rockets!
The drama club is also in full swing with practices every Wednesday and auditions were on December 4.
The SRC was hard at work last week planning up and coming events for the school. Firstly, there will be a school dance on the evening of December 12. The theme for this dance is a “Classic Christmas” and the council hopes all students will attend.
SRC has planned multiple spirit days in December to get the school in the Christmas spirit. Throughout all next week the girls will be selling candy grams, and students are asked to dress in red and green for Christmas Colour day on December 12.
Lights of Love of s e
South Central Superannuated Teacher’s Chapter competes at curling provincials in Saskatoon
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A local South Central curling team of Chris Garis, lead; Ron Yaganiski, second; Stan Marlin, third; and Garth Ward, skip, won the B event at Superannuated Teachers’ Provincial competition.
The provincial event was held Nov. 4-6 at the Sutherland Curling Club in Saskatoon, and included 20 teams from across the province.
An opening loss was followed by four consecutive wins over the next two days of competition to capture the B event trophy.
Former ACHS teacher, Stan Marlin, and curling competitor, said, ‘The event is an annual competition which moves around the province each year. The South-Central chapter last hosted the event at Assiniboia’s Prince of Wales rink
in 2009.”
Marlin said he has curled with Ward and Yaganiski since the late 1980s, and they have curled in Teacher’s Provincials then migrated into Superannuated Teachers’ curling since retiring.
Ward and Yaganiski curl out of Mossbank in the travelling league, with their first game recently in Assiniboia. Marlin curls twice a week in the Regina
Senior’s Queen City league at the Callie Curling Club. Chris Garis taught in Mossbank and now lives in Rouleau where she is part of recreational curling. It has long been maintained that the sport of curling is one that can be taken up at any age and continued as long as participants choose to do so, making it a timeless sport for all generations and competitive levels.
The South Central Superannuate Teacher’s rink included lead Chris Garis, second Ron Yaganiski, third Stan Marlin and skip Garth Ward.
Twinkle Lane
The Spirit of Christmas is About to Burn Brighter in Assiniboia!
Gather your co-workers, friends or neighbours and decorate the campground.
Decorations on display for the public to enjoy from december 6- january 5
Only 15 sites available! Contact steph at 306.642.3600 or recreation@assiniboia.Net to secure your spot
Twinkle Tour
Wed. Dec. 11th • 6:00-9:00 p.m. Southland Co-op Rec Centre
Sleigh rides, visit with Santa, Family board games, Christmas photo booth and Twinkle Tour!
Vote for your favourite displays
This is a free event brought to you by the Town of Assiniboia
Sask, Oct 7, 2024 For the last 25 years of his retirement Richard made Assiniboia his home, an area of Sask where he had many Generational Family ties He is survived by his elder Brother Jack, Son Lorrie, Daughter April, Grandchildren Shannon, Jamie, Cory, Kristoffer,
to 1970 and Spc/Const with the RCMP "K" Division 1970 to his early retirement in 1991 At Richards request there will be no Service and he has been laid to rest within the Liberal Church Cemetery, Stettler, Alta, in the company of his Mother and Daughter He will be dearly missed
Assiniboia Fire Rescue reports a quiet November with 2 calls
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia’s Fire Chief, Terry Lacelle, is happy to report their team received only two call outs in November. One call was for an EMA lift assist and the other turned out to be a false alarm for an elevator rescue.
In their continued commitment to keep up to date on training, fire practice for November included forcible entry, smoke search and victim rescue and live fire fighting.
“This was all done at our fire training facility. Fire safety inspection at the water treatment plant and table top exercises on multilevel structures were also part of our month,” added Chief Lacelle.
As December is usually a rather busy month with holidays, Assiniboia’s Fire Chief offers these December fire safety tips:. Keep household entries and exits cleared rom snow, ensuring safe and easy exit in case of fire. Ensure windows are not frozen in case this is needed for an escape route.
Test your smoke and CO
alarms before gatherings. Ensure your guests know exits in case of emergency, and it is also a good idea to communicate an easily reachable meeting location to account for everyone upon emergency exit. Keep candles away from pets and children and do not leave any open flame unattended. In addition, ensure any ignition devices like lighters and matches are kept up high or in a locked cabinet.
Never leave a working stove or oven unattended.
Ontario reports that unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires in that province.
In the event that a pot or pan containing oil and/or grease catches fire:
• Never throw water on a grease fire. This causes an explosive reaction as water instantly turns to steam, expands out of the pot violently, and carries flaming grease up in the air with it.
• Smother the flames by covering the pot or pan with a lid. Turn off the heat immediately. Do not remove the lid until the pan is com-
Senior Rebels start season with four wins
The Assiniboia Senior Rebels are currently leading the Wood River Division of the Notekeu Hockey League, after claiming four wins to start off their 2024-25 season.
The Rebels won 10-5 over the Hodgeville Huskies during a game held at the Southland Co-op Centre on November 8.
The Rebels scored six times in the first period, with two goals in the second and another two goals in the third period.
They followed that with a 13-8 game against the Avonlea Arrows, won on home ice on November 9.
The Rebels scored five goals in the first period, five goals in the second and then three more times in the third.
Later in the month, the Rebels won 4-1 over the Gravelbourg Hornets during a home game on November 15.
pletely cooled.
• You can use baking soda on small/shallow grease fires. Do not use flour as it can be explosively flammable with the right flour to air mixture.
• Never turn on the overhead fan, as this could spread the fire quickly into the duct work.
Christmas Trees
Just 16 seconds after a spark, a fire on a dried-out tree is out of control and quickly spreading.
Did you know that even artificial trees can catch fire? Always check if your formerly used artificial tree or newly purchased one include a label which says ‘fire resistant’. While this does not mean your tree won’t catch fire at all, it should mean the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
Live trees must never be left to dry out. A good way to tell is to check if needles and trunk as they should be green and hard to pull from
branches and bend easily without breaking. The trunk should be sticky with resin and free of dry rot. Do not place a live tree near any fireplace or baseboard or water radiator. Do not block any exits with the
tree, including windows. Always inspect each of set lights before use, even new ones, to ensure there is no damage to sockets, bulbs or wires and dispose of any damaged sets. Always use CSA and/or UL approved lights, extension cords and power bards. Ensure you do not overload extension cords, power bars or outlet adapters. The fire department said these proactive measures will help keep family and guests safer.
This year it features entertainment by Tyler Shaw and Shawnee Kish. Holiday Train will be stopping in Regina on December 6, Moose Jaw December 7 and Swift Current December 7.
Village of Wood Mountain PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER
The Village of Wood Mountain is offering for the following property for sale by tender:
Wood Mountain Hotel (building and lots) located in the Village of Wood Mountain, Parcel 102618503, Lot 2 Blk/Par 1 Plan CF1601
They scored three goals in the first period and only once in the second period. There was no scoring by either team in the third.
The Rebels had a very close game against the Rouleau Ramblers on November 29, winning 11-10 in overtime while playing in Rouleau.
Assiniboia had four goals in the first period, five goals in the seocnd, one goals in the third, and scored the only goal in the overtime period.
Braydon Delorme, Zack Evens and Josh Bryant are the top three scoring leaders for the league.
The Senior Rebels will travel to Radville to face the Nationals on Friday, December 6.
Then the Rebels will host the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings at the Southland Co-op Centre on Saturday, December 7. Puck drops at 7:30 p.m.
Extension 0 Parcel 203337064, Lot 3, Blk/Par 1 Plan CF1601 Extension 0, Parcel 102610426, Lot 4 Blk/Par 1 Plan CF1601
Extension 0. Parcel 102618525, Lot 5, Blk/Par 1 Plan CF1601 Extension 0
Conditions of Sale:
1. Interested parties must rely on their own inspection and knowledge of the property and not on any representations made by or on behalf of the Village of Wood Mountain.
2. The building and lot are being sold in as in condition, with no implied warranties or guarantees.
3. Contents are included in the sale of the Hotel property.
4. Tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked "Hotel Property Tender" and addressed to the Village of Wood Mountain, Box 89, Wood Mountain, SK SOH 4L0
5. Tenders must be received in the municipal office by Friday December 13, 2024 at 4:00 pm.
6. Highest or any tender, not necessarily accepted.
7. Upon notification, the successful bidder will have 14 days to provide payment to complete the purchase.
8. Possession is not authorized until acceptable arrangements for full payment are made following the acceptance of tender.
9. The successful bidder will be responsible for all legal costs to transfer title.
To make an appointment to view the property, arrangement can be made through the office at (306)266-2002
Village of Wood Mountain PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER
The Village of Wood Mountain is offering for the following property for sale by tender: Wood Mountain Rink (building and lot) located in the Village of Wood Mountain, Parcel 104498837, Blk/Par A Plan No. 92MJ08975 Extension 0.
Conditions of Sale:
• Interested parties must rely on their own inspection and knowledge of the property and not on any representations made by or on behalf of the Village of Wood Mountain.
• The building and lot are being sold in as in condition, with no implied warranties or guarantees. Contents not included.
• Tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Rink Property Tender” and addressed to the Village of Wood Mountain, Box 89, Wood Mountain, SK S0H 4L0
• Tenders must be received in the municipal office by Friday December 13, 2024 at 4:00 pm.
• Highest or any tender, not necessarily accepted.
• Upon notification, the successful bidder will have 14 days to provide payment to complete the purchase.
• Possession is not authorized until acceptable arrangements for full payment are made following the acceptance of tender.
• The successful bidder will be responsible for all legal costs to transfer title.
To make an appointment to view the property, arrangement can be made through the office at (306)266-2002.
The Christmas season is a very special time for the Holiday Train to make its way across Canada. Now in its 26th year the trek runs from November 21 until December 20.
ACHS Principal Brent Chadwick reflects on farewell year
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia Composite High School Principal, Brent Chadwick, reflects on first third of his final year at the school before retirement.
While his career began in 1995 in Mankota, serving as the mathematics teacher for Grades 5-12, he began teaching at ACHS in 1997. Announcing earlier that the conclusion of the 2024-25 school year would be his last, this marks a remarkable 30-year education career, with 28 in Assiniboia.
“One of the biggest highlights of this year has been the involvement of our students and teachers with new extra curricular clubs. We have seen a huge surge in participation for non-ath-
letic activities. Drama and Art Club involvement have skyrocketed and things like Dungeons and Dragons and eSports have a good following for newer clubs,” acknowledged Chadwick.
ACHS prides itself on having students involved outside of the classroom and Chadiwck has seen many students find a place to enjoy their interests.
“The biggest challenge faced this year was having an extra 20 students enroll that we did not know were coming. It was a nice challenge to have but one that caused some strain on the timetable. In the end it always works out but it’s a challenge nontheless.”
Having been at ACHS for the majority of his career,
Chadwick said his plans are to ensure that the history of the building is remembered and those in the future can aspire to do great things with their tenure.
“Over the last couple of years, the athletic banners for both individuals and teams achieving provincial and district honours have been updated for all to see. The other side of this history is to honour our academic successes with our three top awards that students vie for every year. Those awards are the Hayley and Cayden Memorial Scholarship (our highest scholarship awarded), Valedictorian and the Governor General’s Medal. With this complete we would have our history completed and on display for all
to enjoy and aspire to.”
The high school principal said there are other plans for the remainder of the year in the planning stages as this year’s student leadership have been active and open to getting the student body involved and enjoying their time at ACHS. “The biggest event for me will probably be my last graduation ceremony in June,” said Chadwick. “I have been involved with graduation for all my years at ACHS and this one will be even more memorable as I plan to ‘graduate’ this year as well.”
Asked what he may consider as his legacy when he leaves the high school, he said, “The legacy that I hope to be leaving to the past, present, and future students and teachers of ACHS is that school is about more than just the daily routine of classes. Our work with getting our students to strive in the classroom as competitively as they strive on the field or court in an athletic contest has made people work hard towards their goals and dreams. I hope to have instilled in the students/ staff over the years is that Rocket Nation members do great things and can go on to do and accomplish great things in the world outside of Assiniboia.”
Chadwick hopes that he has given the staff a sense of ACHS being a great place to teach as they reside and raise their families in Assiniboia.
“I like to ask our alumni
about their memories of going to ACHS and if it did what was needed to prepare them for the future. Their responses are nothing but positives and they said it was a place to remember in nothing but a good light and yes it helped shape their future.”
Chadwick’s career in education also included coaching both football and basketball, where he encouraged students to learn as well as complete. “I enjoyed chasing championships over the years as a coach and chasing academic honours as a teacher and mentor in mathematics.”
In 2005, Chadwick was promoted to vice principal and began to work with the entire school and staff to move both academics and athletics forward. During this time, he was still coaching full time and spending more time in the office than in the classroom so became a mentor for other math teachers in the school.
“The last move was to the principalship in 2010 and a move completely out of the classroom, but not quite all the coaching. It was during this time I achieved my own academic successes with the acquiring of a Master of Education Degree as well as a Human Resources Diploma from the University of Regina which very much opened up my mind to what was possible for students and staff if the leadership was open to change and using the talents of everyone
Grassroots
in the building.”
Finding a successor for the soon retiring, ACHS principal will take place over the next few months. Chadwick is hopeful that the new principal will be in place to begin working on preparations for the 2025-26 school year in March.
“I will be waiting with anticipation to see who picks up the reins and continues the tradition at ACHS.”
Chadwick reflected on his time in the community and the school, “ACHS is a destination opportunity based upon both community and school. The community boasts many activities and services that small cities have but with the smalltown support that makes for a great environment to teach and coach. I came here looking to stay for a couple of years and then move on but after 28 years, I found out it was the place to be for my career and family. Everything I have wanted to do as a teacher, coach, or administrator I was able to do from here so for me the decision in the end was to settle here and enjoy the support and opportunity that was abundant at ACHS.”
While there is still six more months in his farewell year at ACHS that follow after Christmas break, it is evident that Chadwick is embracing all of the everyday moments and success stories that became a big part of his career at Assiniboia’s high school.
Notice ofAmalgamation
PartneringtoServeYou Better
Grassroots Co-op Boardand Management wouldliketothank youfor supporting your localCo-op. We areexcitedtoprovide you, ourMembers, with the information youneedtobeinformedaboutthe proposed retail partnership between Grassroots Co-op andMooseJaw Co-op.
GRASSROOTSCO-OP MEMBER MEETING
DATE: Tuesday,December 17,2024
TIME: Registration 6:30 pm;CalltoOrder 7:00 pm
LOCATION: LimerickCommunityHall, Main Street, Limerick, SK
SPECIAL RESOLUTION OF GRASSROOTS CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATIONLIMITED BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
1. The Articles of Amalgamation for Grassroots Co-operative Association Limited,based on the positive vote forthe amalgamation, be andare hereby approved, confirmed andadopted. 2. The AmalgamationAgreement, effective the 1st dayofFebruary2026 between Grassroots Co-operative AssociationLimitedand The Moose Jaw Co-operativeAssociation Limited and providing forthe termsand conditions of theirAmalgamationand their continuance as one Co-operativeunder TheCo-operatives Act of the ProvinceofSaskatchewan,beand is herebyapproved, confirmedand adopted. 3. The Directors and OfficersofGrassroots Co-operative Association Limited,beand areherebyauthorized and directed to do such acts andthings and execute suchdocumentsasmay benecessary and desirable to implementthe said Amalgamation.
Western Financial Group in Assiniboia held a customer appreciation day on November 1 to spread some early holiday cheer. Their entire team extend their gratitude to all local customers for their continued loyalty and support.
