The Assiniboia Sr. Rebels have had a strong start to their season, racking up six wins as of Dec. 7.
Zach Evans and Josh Bryant hit the score sheet multiple times in goals and assists in their home game vs Yellow Grass on Dec. 7 earning a one goal victory. Bryce Hall knocked in the overtime winner the previous night on the road.
Fans said that a wellrounded team effort has contributed to the Rebels hot start this season in the Notekeu Hockey League.
The senior hockey team are set to play a two-game weekend on Saturday, December 14 and Sunday, Decmber 15. They will host the Lafleche Flyers on the Sunday at the Southland Co-op Centre.
The last games of the first half of the season take place Dec. 21-22, with Assiniboia hosting the Coronach Merchants at the Southland Co-op Centre on the Sunday. The first games of the new year will take place Jan. 3-4.
Assiniboia had the top three scoring leaders in the league with Brayden Delorme, Zach Evans and Josh Bryant. Local residents can find the full schedule and stats on the league’s website.
Saskatchewan is the country’s leader in senior hockey players and teams.
According to Saskatchewan Hockey, 138 teams were registered last year.
Teams in these leagues are often communitybased. Senior hockey
provides a high level of competition and serves as a vital part of the local sports culture, offering fans an opportunity to watch skilled hockey and supporting local players and communities.
“The Assiniboia Senior Rebels have begun their 20th season in the Notekeu Hockey League,” said a spokesperson for the Sr. Rebels. “The team currently sits at 6-0 to start the season and has some big games coming up in the month of December against the other top teams in the league.”
“This year’s Rebels team is similar to the past few seasons but have added local product Matt Morhart along with forwards Josh Bryant and Rob Cairns. The coaching staff remains the same with head coach Bill Hall and assistant coach Dean Fortin along with trainer Jason Berner. The Senior Rebels appreciate the continued support from their fans and sponsors as they look forward to another exciting season,” added the team spokesperson.
The expansion of the Notekeu Hockey League now includes ten teams with the Lafleche Flyers and Mossbank Blades, who also have early season success.
Other Notekeu games on schedule this weekend include the Gravelbourg Hornets in Rouleau to face the Rambles on Saturday, December 14. The same night, the Radville Nationals will be in Yellow Grass to play the Wheat Kings.
Another beautiful festive night that would turn the biggest Grinch to a Christmas lover was held at the annual Festival of Trees in Assiniboia on December 7. The evening was very well attended, and had the best of the best in auction items, donated by community
Merry, bright and everything nice, AES embraces Christmas spirit
Sherri Solomko Freelance
Reporter
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and that’s exactly the theme enlisted at Assiniboia’s Elementary School. Students in Grades 5-8 are experiencing a number of festive themed activities to share Christmas joy and fun.
Teacher, Laurie Hawkins, said the door decorating competition is taking place again this year, and the annual tradition has been part of the school as
long as she has been teaching here.
The theme for door decorating this year is Christmas carols with each classroom’s students decorating their doors, with photos to be placed on the school’s Facebook page for voting. The winning classroom wins VIP seating for the school’s Christmas movie on Dec. 20 and after the movie, students get a cookie and hot chocolate. The movie takes place in the gym and
VIP seating entails students enjoying the comfort of gym mats for soft seating as opposed to sitting on the floor.
Staff and students will also enjoy a week of Christmas theme spirit days, which includes Christmas socks, ugly Christmas sweaters, Christmas hat day, Santa vs Elves vs Reindeer, Christmas Tree Day, Christmas Character and the week will end with pajama day.
Students will also get to enjoy playing bingo and an annual Christmas Kahoot, where classrooms answer a series of Christmas themed questions and the winning class earns a prize.
The Student Representative Council is also selling candy canes, with proceeds going to their sponsorship of a World Vision child every year. Students always have great fun purchasing the festive treats for their friends.
We wish to thank everyonewho attendedthe ASSINIBOIA &DISTRICT ARTSCOUNCIL’S 33rdMistletoe Art &Craft Sale.
Close to 600 people tookinthe wonderfuldisplays and booths.
Special thanks to our Exhibitors.
Thanks to WendyZahariuk &staff at Prince ofWales Centre fortheir help.
Thank youMarita from FRESH START and helpers for overseeing concession.
Thank youtoTara forthe free movie forthe kids! A BIG ThankYou to Santa fortaking time out of his busy toymaking scheduletovisit us!
Best Overall Displays: Unique Woodtur ning- Sheldon Jacob Designs by Gibs MistletoeBasket RaffleWinner: Margaret Broeder
Adult Door Prize: Jane Sherbina
Kids Door Prize: Kipper Chubb
Vendor Draw prizes: KirstenTopola Linda O’Neill Dorrell Weal Laurie Smith
We really appreciate the support forour annual event. All monies raised at the Mistletoe Art &Craft sale goes to funding arts-related projects in schools and our community.See younextyear!
Celebrating the holiday season in schools has many advantages as it allows students to connect with one another and build an inclusive environment. Celebrating the holidays together helps create a sense of community amongst students and often involves engaging with their local community too.
Staff work at creating engaging and fun holiday activities for students both within the school and outside in their home community.
Hawkins adds her classroom is involved in the adopt-a resident initiative at the long-term care centre, stating, “Connection with our seniors is a school focus. Our staff values the connection between generations. As well, there are students who don’t have grandparents and there are elderly that don’t have family to visit, so this participation is a win-win situation.”
“To start the year, we toured the facilities with their Halloween costumers. To continue the connection, a variety of classes will head over to the LTC centre to sing Christmas carols, deliver presents along with helping with a multi generational craft. One class is also participating in a pen pal project throughout the year, writing letters to the residents,”
added Hawkins. Hawkins said teachers use their art classes to connect singing and crafts, or their PE classes to schedule their visits as students walk to the locations. These seasonal activities provide opportunities for youth that may otherwise be lost as they grow older themselves. Equally the elders involved will find joy and personal rejuvenation in these defined meetings and visits. Many studies have shown that these intergenerational interactions have a positive impact, especially on the mental and emotional health of seniors, reducing feelings of loneliness and depression. It allows all generations involved to feel the spirit and magic of Christmas.
In fact, these school led projects can strengthen entire communities as they foster understanding and respect amongst generations.
The leadership and guidance of teachers leading this initiative of students helping and engaging with community seniors is more than an educational project. It’s a movement towards a more empathetic and inclusive society. Teachers and students are proving that learning is not about textbooks only. It is about life, empathy, and shared experiences.
McIntyre announced as 24th Lieut. Governor
Premier Scott Moe offered his congratulations to Bernadette McIntyre on her appointment as Saskatchewan’s 24th Lieutenant Governor.
“Bernadette McIntyre has enriched our province by her substantial contributions in several areas, including sport, tourism, business and corporate governance,” Moe said. “She has been a tireless volunteer for numerous groups and special events.”
Bernadette McIntyre was the Chief Executive Officer at Wascana Centre Authority, held senior positions with SGI and served on dozens of boards of directors and planning committees. Organizations having benefitted from her leadership include Access Communications, the Regina Airport Authority, SaskSport, Canadian Curling Association, Sandra Schmirler Foundation and the 2013 and 2022 Grey Cup Festivals.
She holds degrees from the University of Regina in Economics and Business Administration and has been inducted into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame.
The Premier also commended Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty and his wife Donna for their many contributions to our province. “On behalf of the people of Saskatchewan I would like to thank Their Honours for their outstanding service,” Moe said. “Everywhere they travelled throughout Saskatchewan, their genuine warmth and kindness touched the people they met. I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”
A date for the installation for the new Lieutenant Governor will be announced shortly. Under the constitution, Lieutenant Governors are appointed by the federal government for a minimum of five years, but there is no fixed term of office.
We will
Students at AES decorate their classroom doors.
Photos courtesy Laurie Hawkins
Editorial & Opinions
Sherri Solomko / Freelance Reporter
Not long now, not long at all. December 25th sure seems to sneak up faster and faster every year. I wonder if it’s possible that time is really speeding up or maybe it’s just a sign that I’ve been at this adult business longer than I realized.
Surely, I’ve seen everything by now. Spoiled children reforming, Grinch-like hearts swelling with the joy of Christmas miracles, Scrooges opening their eyes to values beyond the materialistic; and in my opinion it never gets boring or repetitive, but rather heartwarming and joyful. At this point it would take a whole awful lot to surprise this seasoned, seasonal veteran. Although I am still waiting for any of these scenarios to apply to politicians both here and across the border.
I’ve even seen the goofy side of Christmas. You know, those stories that at the time, may hurt the pride, but turn out to make the best stories ten years later? I’ve written about these before. Last season’s mishap turns into this season’s mashup and sure to evoke some laughter and some of our Christmas pasts.
Our daughter lost her first tooth on Christmas Eve. Bless her four-year-old wonderment as her spunky older cousin asked her if she’d like to see her karate chop. “Hiiighhh- YA!”. And that was it, poor little offspring now understood a whole new meaning for “All I want for Christmas is
my two front teeth”. I guarantee this is one of those tales told year after year because as new parents, who ever expected Santa and the Tooth Fairy to arrive the same night.
Or the story of a man (we’ll call him Kris) whose procrastination put him in a bit of a slippery situation. You see, Kris was a busy man, one who liked to avoid putting up his Christmas decorations. And one year, he waited so long to put them up, he was forced to climb atop his one and a half story house, in the middle of a blizzard in order to hang his lights. Little did he suspect, such untimeliness of his contribution to the Christmas atmosphere of the neighbourhood would land him stuck on his roof for two hours as he stared down at his ladder on the ground. Thanks to cell phones, he was rescued. Kris may have even been a member of this lovely community of yours.
Yes, all these delightful stories have certainly brought many a smile to my face, and the occasional tear to my eye. Although, I have to say, Christmas isn’t what it once was. People just get more and more caught up in the petty details and the insatiable need to have a bigger, bolder, more expensive gifts and decorations to show off.
For myself, I stare in wonder as person after person succumbs to the wily temptations of marketing “genius” and consumerism. Christmas
CREATING A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER
hits our shelves before Halloween is scarcely over, or in some places, at the same time. In the wise words of Charlie Brown, ‘Good grief’. I just don’t understand why humans, get so caught up in these things, only to find they are unhappy anyway. What happened to the spirit of giving back to those who make an impact in your life daily? Or volunteering to help improve the quality of the holiday season for those less fortunate? Oh wait, I do see those things, in your community and in the one I live in to. All you have to do is look around. While Christmas may be the theme for these give back efforts, it’s the true spirit of Christmas that inspires them.
It’s like the Grinch was right, “Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store, maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”
And, I promise you, the stories and actions you hear about and read about are only a portion of what’s taking place as many Christmas ‘elves and fairies’ choose to remain anonymous. This editorial invoked many of the warm, fuzzy feelings I get about Christmas but I will close with two of my favorite holiday quotes: “Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day.” —Helen Steiner Rice. “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” — Hamilton Wright Mabie.
Plastic and styrofoam are announced as recycling options
Sherri Solomko / Freelance Reporter
Good news for our environment and households trying to reduce household waste. SK Recycles has officially launched its household packaging and paper recycling program across the province. This provides residents more recycling options in Sask. in partnership with Sarcan depots
The organization’s media release stated, “For the first time in the province’s history, flexible plastics and foam packaging will be accepted province-wide at SARCAN depots. Non-deposit glass bottles and jars will now be accepted provincewide too. Most of these items are not accepted in household recycling bins.
Here’s what you can now bring:
Flexible Plastics: Plastic bags, zipperlock pouches, crinkly wrappers and more.
Foam Packaging: Takeout containers, foam trays and protective foam for appliances. Glass Bottles and Jars: oil bottles, pickle jars and jam jars.
Sarcan Recycling and SK Recycles work alongside communities across Saskatchewan to create a sustainable, province-wide program
This incldues the Assiniboia Sarcan location, as they have separate bag stands
set up at the front of their location for this material that can now be accepted. It will certainly help the process if those bringing in the material, has it sorted accordingly. As with any transition or change, people are reminded to be patient with the process as the announcement of new material accepted will require an adjustment period for both those dropping off materials and those working at Sarcan locations.
SK Recycles is the new provincial household packaging and paper recycling program. With a vision for Saskatchewan to advance packaging and paper recycling, SK Recycles will team up with businesses, communities and organizations to collect, receive, sort, and recycle materials, provide support and education and expand opportunities to make recycling easier and more consistent across the province, so that all packaging and paper can become new materials.
Learn more about SK Recycles at skrecycles.ca or any of their social media channels.
SK Recycles is a non-profit organization responsible for management and recycling of household packaging and paper, throughout Saskatchewan.
Rock Talk: leagues hit the rink, schools start curling program
Submitted by the Assiniboia Curling Rink
The current curling season is alive and well. Leagues are fully rolling and the schools are actively engaged.
Both AES and ACHS are hard at work perfecting their skills. Grade 5/6s come on Tuesdays, and Grade 7/8s on Thursdays. The Grade 9-12 are every
Monday and Wednesday. Leading up to their school playoffs in early February.
The Monday and Wednesday afternoon crew have averaged 16-18 curlers. Anyone still interested in joining is more than welcome for a little fun and socialization. Brooms and sliders are available to use.
The next Tuesday Family Night will take
place on Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
The Thursday Night Competitive Rec League has all 20 teams in action every week on draws from 6 to 9 p.m. The sponsor business of this league is Richardson Pioneer.
The Monday Night Travelling League is well under way with six teams, spreading the ac -
tion between Mossbank, Lafleche, and Assiniboia. South Country Equipment and Southland Co-op iare the sponsor businesses for this league.
The annual Senior’s Masters Cash Spiel will take place on January 3 and 4. Those interested can contact Bill at 306-6409655 to get in on the action.
Residents can watch
Regular SeasonSchedule
for info regarding a family New Years Eve “Rockin’ Good Time” celebration, under the guidance of Nicole and Travis Eldstrom.
The Grade 2-4 program which traditionally runs after Christmas for six weeks, spread out over January to March, is currently looking for some parent volunteers to lead. Interested residents can contact Bill in the office for further info.
The planning committee for the Canadian Mixed in November 2025, are hard at work. Local residents can watch for further information in the new year. It will involve this season’s provincial winners from
each province and territory. Brent Blackwell, Cathy Willis, and Al Karst were noted with appreciation for their many years of fine leadership on the Assiniboia Curling Club board. New additions to the board include Travis Sinclair, Casey Topola, and Warren Neff as their replacements under the new chairmanship of Tyler Bamford.
With that, the Assiniboia Curling Club sincerely wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and great New Year” in 2025. Until next month, have a super festive season with family and friends.
HOLIDAY HOURS
The office will be closed on the following dates: December 24th-27th/2024 January 1st/2025 ****January 10th-March 3rd/2025****
Staff will attend to phone messages, beginning the week of February 17th, for those patients looking to make appointments in March. We understand these closures impact our patients and are grateful for your understanding! Dr. Vallee, Jo-Ann and
Community Chiropractic: 306-642-4199
Christmas fun at the Assiniboia Campground as vendors decorate the camping spots for the season. 2024-2025
Our Town
Festive activities at ACHS spread cheer
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia Composite High School students are decking the halls and jingling the bells, all part of festive, fun activity at the high school this December.
Niamh Hickey, SRC Events Coordinator representing students, told the Assiniboia Times that their student leadership team has put together a number of festive and fun activities for December.
“At the beginning of the month, the SRC put up lovely decorations and have spent most of their time planning a school dance. ACHS has not had a dance for many years and the team thought it would be a fun way to get the student body excited for Christmas,” said Hickey
The much-anticipated school dance occurred on Dec. 12 in the theme of classic Christmas and students were encouraged to dress formally.
“The group also planned
multiple festive activities throughout the month of December that students could participate in.”
Hickey said students could sign up for a gingerbread house making contest that took place Dec. 10-11. Secret Santa candy canes were also sold and will be handed out the week of Dec. 16, where there will also be a sit with Santa event.
School spirit days are always popular with the holidays offering the most excitement and variety.
Every single day the last week before Christmas break, Hickey affirms that there will be a different spirit theme each day, and even includes an ugly Christmas sweater day.
The last day of school always offers loads of good tidings and good will as staff and students will enjoy pajama day along with a pancake breakfast made by the SRC team, before everyone heads into Christmas break.
Lights of Love s e
December
Ensure to check theEventsCalendartocheck allthe Hometown Holiday Seasonevents in our AmazingAssiniboia. Followalong on social mediatoo!
2024 CivicNews
EAST SIDE WATERBILLS
East side waterbills were printedonNovember20th.Besuretocallthe Town
Lookingfor theperfect Gift?
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PROPERTY TAXES
Call us at theTownOffice, 306-642-3382, to ensureyour Property Taxaccount isingood standing. Accountsnot paidbyDecember 31, 2024 will receivea10% interest penalty
Ensure to pay2-3 business days priortothe duedatewhenpaying onlineat your institutioninorder forour office to receive thepayment.
Office to checkyour balanceorstopbytograbyourbill. East side waterbills are due December 19th
WEST SIDE WATERBILLS
West side waterbills will be printedDecember20th,checkbackwiththe Town
Office forpaper copy pick up or balance
Christmas was definitely in the air as the annual Santa Light parade lit the streets on December 4. Decorations
Photos by Muriel Fehr/Freelance Reporter
Rocket Report: basketball teams to host games at ACHS
Submitted by Niamh Hickey
Over the last week both Assiniboia Composite High School (ACHS) basketball teams showed great promise.
The boys basketball team came up short on their game held December 2. It was a great night for development especially for the five younger players on the team. Everyone had a chance to work on their skills on the court and better their knowledge of basketball.
The girls basketball team was on the road twice this past week. The girls played their first game of the season on December 2 in Caronport against Briercrest Academy. The girls worked hard but lost 41-64.
A huge shout out goes to Rylee Huys for her dedication to her post and to Kady Kuntz for her defence skills.
The girls headed to a tournament in Southey for the December 6 and 7
weekend. The girls played their first game against Oxbow on Friday evening and won 34-30 in a very tight game.
The shout outs of that game go to Ariana Bell for her relentless rebounds and to Kaelyn Snape for her shooting skills.
The girls went on to play two games on Saturday. Their first game was against Balgonie where they won 44-21 and their second game was against the host team Southey where they unfortunately lost 38-52 and won second in the tournament.
In some SLC news, there will be a gingerbread building contest on December 10 and 11. The winners will be announced on December 12.
Also, on December 12 the SLC is putting on a school dance with a Classic Christmas theme. The Council has decided that they will be inviting kids from other selected towns, and they hope that the whole student body will attend. To get everyone in the mood the SLC is requesting that students and staff wear Christmas colours on December 12.
The SLC will be selling Secret Santa Candy Canes all throughout this week. ACHS will be getting their very own visit from Santa on December 16. Santa will hand out the candy canes to the students.
LAND FOR RENT
320 acres of farmland located seven miles west of Mossbank, SK. This land has been continuously crop and well maintained. We would like a cash rent agreement on a yearly basis.
Please e-mail David at: panthermechanical@hotmail.com or Carole at: cerfle@telus.net with questions about offers to rent. All offers to be submitted by Jan 2, 2023. Februar y 2, 2025.
It’s that special time of year once again when you never know who will pop up for a photo opportunity. Sponsored by Nelson GM and Expressions Photography, the kids were able to get their photo done taken with Santa and the Grinch. Pictured here is Axton and Ava Hoffos, full of Christmas smiles. A donation of $500 was presented to Ross Payant Nursing Home for their patio project from proceeds of the day.
The Assiniboia Times will have early deadlines for the December 27th and January 3rd issues. Please contact our office for details.
Photo courtesy of Expressions Photography
November 22 December 13 2024
Receive one entry with every qualifying purchase at these participating merchants Prize draw made December 18, 2024
Last Week to
Receive
Marjorie Linn
Marjorie Evelyn (nee Ireland) Linn of Mossbank Saskatchewan passed away peacefully with her family by her side on November 27, 2024, at the Assiniboia Union Hospital She was 89 years old Marj was born on June 13 1935 on the family farm in the Mossbank district the youngest child of Josiah "Sye" and Evelyn (née Harris) Ireland She grew up on the farm, attended Center Ridge School and completed her education in Mossbank On March 14, 1952, Marj married the love of her life, William "Bill" Linn Together, they were blessed with three children: Diana Susan and Bob Marj and Bill owned and operated John Deere Mossbank Motors where they resided above the shop Marj served as the bookkeeper and was affectionately known as the "First Lady of John Deere " Marj also worked for many years at the post office, known for her warm smile and dedication to the community A talented cook, baker and seamstress Marj was famous for her Chinese dishes and her ability to prepare a feast for twelve without notice Her home was a hub of hospitality where the John Deere Territory managers and countless others enjoyed her exceptional cooking and warm welcome Marj was a proud member of the Kinettes and actively involved in all projects and truly loved her community Above all, she cherished her family Her love extended to her children grandchildren great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren each holding a special place in her heart Marj is lovingly remembered by her children: Diana "Jo" Myles, Susan Metin, and Bob (Cindy) Linn; her 25 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 2 great-greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins She is predeceased by her husband Bill Linn parents Sye and Evelyn Ireland; sister Jean Bumphrey; brother Bob Ireland; sonin-law John “Jack” Myles A Celebration of Marj’s life was held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 1:00 p m , at the Cornerstone Gospel Church, Mossbank, SK Private Family Interment Mossbank Cemetery Our family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Assiniboia Union Hospital with special thanks to Palliative Care Nurse Nadine Stevenson and Dr Ramlakhan for your kind and compassionate care of our beloved Mom, Marjorie We are forever grateful ”
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New Next Gen ag. mentorship program cohort announced
The mentee and mentor pairing for the Saskatchewan Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program Cohort Six was announced in Regina.
This 18-month experience creates leadership development opportunities for mentees and allows them to increase their involvement in decisions affecting the agriculture industry.
“Young people are the future of Canadian agriculture, and it is so important that they have the chance to learn from those with a bit more experience in the field,” Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay said. “I have no doubt that these kinds of close partnerships will strengthen not only their careers, but also the sector here in Saskatchewan.”
“The Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program is like no other in the agriculture industry,” Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison said. “This is a unique opportunity for young people to get hands-on experience in numerous areas, giving them the best tools to succeed in their careers. I want to thank industry leaders for their support and for offering to participate in the program as
mentors.”
Mentees gain skills and knowledge in the areas of governance, agriculture advocacy, policy development, public speaking, strategic planning, consensus building, media management, verbal and written communications and financial management.
The Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program is funded by the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (Sustainable CAP). Sustainable CAP is a five year (2023-2028),
$3.5 billion investment by federal/provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri-food and agribased products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.
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
Many families attend Kinette’s Breakfast with Santa event
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
Once again as has been held for about 10 years the Kinettes put on Breakfast with Santa at Assiniboia Elementary School on December 7.
Donors for this year’s breakfast were Southland Co-op, Richardson Pioneer, Rasmussen Plumbing and Modern Dollar Plus.
A simple but beautiful breakfast of pancakes, sausages, juice and oranges was made available toeveryone. Santa arrived just ahead of the families attending.
Kinettes, Kin Kids, family and volunteers were on hand to man the donation table, make breakfast, serve breakfast and take pictures of the children with Santa.
Locals and visitors
brought their children and grandchildren. Neighbours came to support the event.
Parents supervised their children at the craft table. Santa posed for pictures with each of the children and some of the adults.
A general atmosphere of camaraderie and Christmas Spirit was in the air.
The public came and went over the two hour breakfast. There was approximately 100 adults and children who had arrived at 10 a.m., and 11 tables were set up with 10 chairs at each.
The purpose of this event is to bring families together as well as to donate to several charities.
This year’s proceeds will go to Salvation Army, Adopt-A-Family and Moose Jaw Transition house as there isn’t one in
the district.
This event is for everyone in the community to come have breakfast, spend a little time with friends, get their children’s pictures with Santa and perhaps make a donation.
Many families do all of the above and some only a few activities, but all are welcome whatever the circumstances.
Local neighbours within walking distance come every year to support the event. Santa spent time greeting everyone among the tables when the lineups for pictures settled down periodically.
With the purpose of bringing families together Breakfast with Santa, and the support of businesses and donations collected, this event was considered a complete success.
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.
Craft table set up by the Kinettes for the children during their Breakfast with Santa event. Parents supervise their children.
Pictures with Santa were facilitated by Kinette Lisa Martin and community volunteer Olivia Odson who is considering becoming a Kinette member. The lineup included small breaks giving Santa time to circulate.
Photos by Muriel Fehr/Freelance Reporter
Being grounded, Assiniboia business celebrates third anniversary
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The perfect blend, Brian and Joma Domingo changed course on their careers and are now celebrating their third anniversary with their business, The Bean Lover. Joma was in the banking industry before switching careers to go full steam ahead into the coffee business.
“There were several reasons for opening, one of them being the realization that Assiniboia had no coffee service business,” affirms Domingo.
“We had our second daughter during the peak of the pandemic and I was a stay-at-home mom. We needed extra income for our small family so we have decided to open a business in the comfort of our home. The town has no coffee service business so we thought this will be a good idea to do. We started as a home-based coffee service business and then opened a brick and mortar store a year after,” says the coffee shop owner.
The Assiniboia business owner was born and raised in the Philippines. Her father moved to Assiniboia in 2008 to work and her mom, brother and herself followed him to the community in 2011.
“I always loved coffee but I had no experience in making them. When my husband and I decided to
turn our coffee service business into a to-go coffee shop as well, I watched and read up on creating coffees, as well as making my own recipes and going from there.”
The Bean Lover is a coffee service business, providing coffee services supplies for businesses.
Domingo says on the retail side, they have their very own coffee beans, loose tea and unique gift items.
“We also do custom print and laser on the side. We customize shirts, mugs, cutting boards and more. This is in addition to our to-go coffee shop, where we also sell drinks and food to go.”
The pair affirm that their business has grown a lot. From starting as a home-based coffee service, to opening and renting a brick-and-mortar store, to turning into a to-go coffee shop and now are proud owners of the building.
The Bean Lover celebrated their third anniversary on Dec. 3 as a brick-and-mortar store. The event included free snacks and drinks all day as well as a big sale for customers as part of the anniversary celebration. The owners have lined up a small gift for every purchase made on anniversary day as well as had more than 20 prizes to give away as part of their anniversary raffle draw.
For now, the business is run by Joma and her husband working in the shop. Their plan is to let the business grow and hopefully hire people to work with them in the future.
The Domingos share bottomless appreciation to the community, “We are so grateful to our community because they have supported us since day one. Yes, we have regular customers that we see almost everyday and we love to see everyday. People buy gift cards; we sell a lot of gift cards especially on special occasions like grad and Christmas. They buy gift items from us, as well as custom items.” Their cups runneth over.
Domingo acknowledges that just like other businesses, there are quiet days of activity.
“Because we like to stay in business, we think of unique stuff to do, like the custom laser and printing. As well as making new drinks and food for people to try.”
The dynamic duo say they are proud of turning their coffee service business into a to-go coffee shop as well as transitioning from building renters to building owners.
The Bean Lover’s owners remind residents that they are not just a coffee shop but also a coffee service where people can get supplies for their busi-
ness. Their customer laser printing can be put on almost anything. They also ship their products to customers if they live outside of town and can’t come into the store. There are continued positive comments and reviews on the business Facebook page. “Great service, menu selections and a great gift buying place with lots of neat things for any-
one on your list.”
The Bean Lover also carries other small business products in their store, because they are committed to support other small businesses as much as they can. Customers say they appreciate this option and their dedication to other community small businesses.
Local coffee shoppes create a vibe that includes unique experiences, offer-
ings and personalization. A familiar and comfortable atmosphere is created when owners remember their customer’s preferences, building relationships with all who support their endeavors.
Assiniboia prides itself on a well-rounded business community and this oneof-a-kind coffee shoppe offers another flavor to what the town has to offer.
Comforts of Christmas come from those who serve in our community
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
While those who serve aren’t our first thought when we examine the topic of comforts of Christmas, they are certainly an important aspect of the Christmas experience who provide our family and friends reassurance.
Those who serve thankfully provide all the comforts we enjoy at Christmas.
My dad was a highwayman and my husband has served in this role for 43.5 years. While our family may have missed many Christmas moments with them, they were actively fulfilling their duties to ensure those who had to use the highways at Christmas and over the holidays would have the safest of conditions. This oftenmeant longer hours on Dec. 24 to ensure plowing, salting and sanding was completed.
As a kid, now a wife and mom, I remember many Christmas mornings
we spent without a dad in the house, as they were out doing road checks and road maintenance. I will never forget one Christmas Eve, when we lived in Unity, when it began to rain around noon on Dec. 24 and continued raining until Christmas morning. The icy conditions gave the crew many challenges as they worked a long shift to make the highways safe. While we missed their presence on those Christmas Eves and mornings, we were comforted knowing they were working to keep families safe.
I am sure travellers over the years have uttered a thanks for these highwaymen across the province.
While we hope fire services and RCMP never have to be called, these folks are on call throughout the year, including Christmas and the holidays. How reassuring to know protective services are willing to dash away from their family Christmas moments to serve and protect if the
R.M. of Poplar Valley No.12
NOTICE OF ABANDONMENT OF POLL
Wheras:
Les Ingram for the office of Div. 1
Is the only candidates, I hereby give notice that no voting for these office will take place on January 8th, 2025.
Dated this 4th day of December, 2024.
Lynn Fisher Returning Officer
emergency alarm goes.
No one wants to be in a hospital over Christmas, but it would be much worse without the dedication of health-care providers. It is comforting to know there is a full roster of doctors, nurses and other healthcare team members working through the holidays to ensure the best of care continues for anyone unfortunate enough to be in hospital.
I doubt anyone thinks of a plumber in this way, however a local plumber has told me of the frenzied calls he has received over the years of a plumbing or heating emergency when the homeowner had a house full of Christmas company. These trade professionals will also take time out of their own busy Christmas activities to dash out to help someone in need, even if it is a cold or crappy job.
We can never forget our Sask Power employees who all year go out in the most non favoring weather conditions to get us powered up again and Christmas may be another one of those occasions they leave their families for.
Last but never least, we must always give thanks to those who choose to serve in our armed forces all year long.Think of these folks next time you are uttering or praying words of thanks. Thanks to these men and women, we are provided many more comforts of Christmas that are often taken for granted. Blessed are those who choose to serve, regardless of the season.
The Bean Lover marked their third annviversary in Assiniboia.
